thedailymirror--2020-12-17--IFAB chief defends VAR use in the Premier League but does offer key admission

VAR has helped to clean up football , according to a key figure at the game ’ s law-making body , reports the Press Association .
The application of the technology has been controversial to say the least , with two-thirds of respondents in a YouGov poll in February saying they felt it made watching Premier League matches less enjoyable .
David Elleray , a former Premier League referee who is now the technical director for the International Football Association Board ( IFAB ) , accepts VAR has affected the flow of the game .
But he says it has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s clear that football is fairer but it ’ s also clear that VAR has had an impact on the flow of the game , ” he said .
“ Inevitably if you are going to stop the game to look at a replay , that involves stopping the flow of the game .
“ There is evidence that there is a significant reduction in simulation in the penalty area , there ’ s also a general reduction in players mobbing and arguing with referees because they know very well that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a goal is going to be checked or reviewed by the VAR .
`` So behaviour is better .
“ There are fewer games decided by clear and obvious errors by the match officials , there are fewer players getting away with violence on the field behind the referee ’ s back or indeed getting away with potential injury-threatening tackles which the referee hasn ’ t been able to judge correctly.
” There was criticism of the failure of officials to act either at the time or retrospectively on a challenge by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Virgil Van Dijk in October .
The referee or the VAR could have decided to send the England international off for violent conduct without giving a penalty even though offside had already been given , but ultimately did not do so .
Van Dijk suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage in the challenge and remains sidelined , with Liverpool not wishing to put a time frame on his recovery .
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The former Premier League referee, now technical director for the International Football Association Board, has continued his defence of the system, but has made a few admissions
VAR has helped to clean up football, according to a key figure at the game’s law-making body, reports the Press Association.
The application of the technology has been controversial to say the least, with two-thirds of respondents in a YouGov poll in February saying they felt it made watching Premier League matches less enjoyable.
David Elleray, a former Premier League referee who is now the technical director for the International Football Association Board (IFAB), accepts VAR has affected the flow of the game.
But he says it has also made the game fairer.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
“It’s clear that football is fairer but it’s also clear that VAR has had an impact on the flow of the game,” he said.
“Inevitably if you are going to stop the game to look at a replay, that involves stopping the flow of the game.
Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images) POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
“There is evidence that there is a significant reduction in simulation in the penalty area, there’s also a general reduction in players mobbing and arguing with referees because they know very well that any contentious decision relating to a penalty or a goal is going to be checked or reviewed by the VAR.
"So behaviour is better.
“There are fewer games decided by clear and obvious errors by the match officials, there are fewer players getting away with violence on the field behind the referee’s back or indeed getting away with potential injury-threatening tackles which the referee hasn’t been able to judge correctly.”
There was criticism of the failure of officials to act either at the time or retrospectively on a challenge by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford on Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk in October.
The referee or the VAR could have decided to send the England international off for violent conduct without giving a penalty even though offside had already been given, but ultimately did not do so.
Van Dijk suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage in the challenge and remains sidelined, with Liverpool not wishing to put a time frame on his recovery.
*Sign up to the Mirror Football email here for the latest news and transfer gossip


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Exhausted mum's apologetic note ahead of sleep training has neighbour in tears

Trying to get your baby to sleep through the night is one of the most challenging aspects of parenthood .
Knowing this , a mum wrote her neighbours a letter warning them about what was to come .
The exhausted couple left the note on each of their neighbours ' doors explaining that they 'd started sleeping training their baby and were attempting the `` cry-it-out '' method .
In the letter the `` tired and sorry '' mum apologised in advance for the crying everyone would likely hear , even inviting them to pop in for milk , sugar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need it .
It read : `` Apartment 207 here .
I regret to inform you that we have begun sleep training our son .
`` After many sleepless nights thanks to the dreaded 4-month sleep regression , we have decided it is time to start the cry-it-out method .
`` If you hear the cries please pray for me and know I am also crying and going insane .
`` I ’ m very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you , let ’ s hope it doesn ’ t last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were planning on testing it for four days and then if it didn ’ t work , they were going to have a break for a week or two and try again .
They added : `` Please know I am not neglecting him , but I will let him try to self-soothe for 45-60 minutes at a time during this period .
`` I will be in the room every 5-10 minutes to reassure him he is not alone and is okay .
`` If you start to feel hatred towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the door and I will bring you a shot of tequila to mend our neighbor-ship .
`` It ’ s cheap tequila but it will calm your nerves , it ’ s been tested and proven to work by yours truly .
`` Any-how keep us in your prayers and turn the TV volume up .
`` If you need milk , sugar , or eggs we have some .
And tequila too just swing by . ''
They signed the letter off from `` tired and sorry neighbors . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the people living in the apartment block , with the caption : `` Neighbors left this on the door ...
I 'm gon na bake them some cookies '' where people praised the couple for their note .
Since being posted it has received 1.1 million likes and thousands of comments .
One said : `` With a note like that I would not care what they do , '' while another said : `` This is how you neighbor ... well played ... '' And a third added : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world . ''
The sweet woman who received the letter was true to her word as she made the couple chocolate chip , peppermint shortbread , and brownie cookies as well as a sweet gift of a bottle of wine and baby wash .
The idea behind the cry-it-out method , according to Baby Center is that if your child gets used to having you rock or nurse them back to sleep , they 'll never learn to drift off by themselves .
Instead of crying for you when they wake in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ themselves back to sleep .
It says : `` Crying is n't the goal of this sleep training method , but advocates say it 's often an inevitable side effect as your baby adjusts to sleeping on his own .
`` They say the short-term pain of a few tears is far outweighed by the long-term advantages : A child who goes to sleep easily and happily on his own , and parents who can count on a good night 's rest . ''
Do you have a story to share ?
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Email us at yourmirror @ mirror.co.uk

A couple who was beginning to sleep train their baby left a letter on each of their neighbours doors apologising in advance for what was to come - and people on Twitter praised them for it
Trying to get your baby to sleep through the night is one of the most challenging aspects of parenthood.
Knowing this, a mum wrote her neighbours a letter warning them about what was to come.
The exhausted couple left the note on each of their neighbours' doors explaining that they'd started sleeping training their baby and were attempting the "cry-it-out" method.
In the letter the "tired and sorry" mum apologised in advance for the crying everyone would likely hear, even inviting them to pop in for milk, sugar, egg or tequila if they should need it.
It read: "Apartment 207 here. I regret to inform you that we have begun sleep training our son.
"After many sleepless nights thanks to the dreaded 4-month sleep regression, we have decided it is time to start the cry-it-out method.
Image: KittyBeeJr/Twitter) KittyBeeJr/Twitter)
"If you hear the cries please pray for me and know I am also crying and going insane.
"I’m very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you, let’s hope it doesn’t last long."
The mum explained that they were planning on testing it for four days and then if it didn’t work, they were going to have a break for a week or two and try again.
They added: "Please know I am not neglecting him, but I will let him try to self-soothe for 45-60 minutes at a time during this period.
"I will be in the room every 5-10 minutes to reassure him he is not alone and is okay.
"If you start to feel hatred towards us just give us a friendly knock on the door and I will bring you a shot of tequila to mend our neighbor-ship.
"It’s cheap tequila but it will calm your nerves, it’s been tested and proven to work by yours truly.
"Any-how keep us in your prayers and turn the TV volume up.
"If you need milk, sugar, or eggs we have some. And tequila too just swing by."
They signed the letter off from "tired and sorry neighbors."
The letter was shared on Twitter by one of the people living in the apartment block, with the caption: "Neighbors left this on the door... I'm gonna bake them some cookies" where people praised the couple for their note.
Since being posted it has received 1.1 million likes and thousands of comments.
One said: "With a note like that I would not care what they do," while another said: "This is how you neighbor... well played..."
And a third added: "We need more neighbors like them in the world."
The sweet woman who received the letter was true to her word as she made the couple chocolate chip, peppermint shortbread, and brownie cookies as well as a sweet gift of a bottle of wine and baby wash.
The idea behind the cry-it-out method, according to Baby Center is that if your child gets used to having you rock or nurse them back to sleep, they'll never learn to drift off by themselves.
Instead of crying for you when they wake in the night, they'll learn to soothe themselves back to sleep.
It says: "Crying isn't the goal of this sleep training method, but advocates say it's often an inevitable side effect as your baby adjusts to sleeping on his own.
"They say the short-term pain of a few tears is far outweighed by the long-term advantages: A child who goes to sleep easily and happily on his own, and parents who can count on a good night's rest."
Do you have a story to share? We want to hear all about it. Email us at yourmirror@mirror.co.uk


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Jade Goody's sons' heartbreaking Xmas tradition and painful road to recovery

When Jade Goody received a devastating terminal cervical cancer diagnosis , her first thoughts were for her young sons .
She spent the last days of her life working in a bid to leave behind enough cash to give Bobby , then five , and Freddie , four , the start in life that she 'd never had .
And a week before her death on Mother 's Day 2009 , the brave Big Brother star embraced her boys in her hospital bed as she told them the truth about her illness .
On the other side of the door @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting with hugs and the answers to any questions their sons had .
Jade wanted to spare Bobby and Freddie the pain of her funeral and so when she passed , Jeff whisked the kids away to Adelaide in Australia .
There , they penned heartbreaking messages to their late mum which they placed in a bottle and set to sail in the ocean .
Jeff , 41 , went from seeing the children three times a week to becoming a full-time dad , and devoted his life to helping his broken boys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six months it was like they were unaffected .
I was n't silly enough or naive enough to think that was always going to be the case , I was kind of waiting for the day when it hit them , '' he previously told The Telegraph .
`` And then it did , and for 10 months they were completely lost in the world , they just could n't find their feet .
With all the love in the world , all the cuddles ... you 're fighting fires , effectively , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect his sons , Jeff shut himself off from the world around - a move he later considered to have been a big mistake .
“ What mattered to me more that anything was that I did everything I could to be there for the boys and their grief .
So I stopped socialising with friends , stopped ringing people , '' he told The Sun .
“ That was important for a period of time but I should have then let everyone back in a little - I didn ’ t. ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a single parent as `` the most difficult experience in my life '' and cut back on work that would take him away from the boys .
He hired a string of au pairs with varying degrees of success and encourage his sons to seek therapy .
The hardest part , though , was when their anger was directed at him .
“ The worst possible thing I ’ ve heard from both boys would be , ‘ I wish it was you that was dead and not Mum , ' '' Jeff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was always that they ’ d take things out on me but I didn ’ t know to what extent . ''
Jade had left enough money to pay for a private education for both .
So for Jeff , his main concern was trying to make sure the loss would n't affect their sons in later life .
His first step was to keep Jade 's memory alive with conversation and home videos in a bid to keep his sons 'balanced ' .
Putting his children first , Jeff moved back from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , now 17 , was bullied at school .
And when Freddie , 16 , was diagnosed with ADHD he was forced to go against Jade 's wishes and send him to a comprehensive that better met his needs .
Through his love , both have grown into strapping young men , with Jeff proudly showing off his sons on Instagram .
Bobby was spotted by a modelling agent in a coffee shop when he was 16 and walked in a Dolce & Gabbana catwalk show for Milan Fashion Week .
And the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to his mum .
`` I look like my mum , I 'm always being told that by everyone .
I have her lips and smile – and her eyes , '' he told the Daily Mail .
`` The rest of me is dad 's .
As I grow up I 'm starting to look more like him . ''
He is still studying at college ; shares the household chores with his dad and pays £200 a month in rent - something Jeff imposed to encourage him to develop a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work ethic is n't there , then I would put some things in place in order to encourage that , such as charging Bobby rent , '' he told Nick Berry 's Dadpod podcast .
`` That 's something I decided to do because I believe in that as a motivational tool for him to go and , you know , work four or five hours doing a pot wash in the local caff or the restaurant or whatever . ''
Meanwhile , the family starts every Christmas Day in the same way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the years following her death , Jeff said he realised the boys enjoyed the day so much more if it started with the heartbreaking gesture for their mum .
`` I recognised that if we did n't speak about Mum and do something for Mum at the beginning of the day , then the day did n't really go as well as a result , '' he told Woman 's Own .
And he is certain of one thing - Jade would be so proud of her beloved boys .
`` My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
`` When Bobby landed his first fashion magazine cover he said he hoped his mum was looking down on him and smiling .
And I ’ m sure she was .
`` When I look at Bobby and Freddie I see their mother ’ s colourful personality shining through .
`` Jade was one of the biggest characters out there and the boys have both inherited that from her .
All their best qualities come from their mum . ''

Bobby and Freddie Brazier were just five and four when their mum Jade Goody died from cervical cancer in 2009
When Jade Goody received a devastating terminal cervical cancer diagnosis, her first thoughts were for her young sons.
She spent the last days of her life working in a bid to leave behind enough cash to give Bobby, then five, and Freddie, four, the start in life that she'd never had.
And a week before her death on Mother's Day 2009, the brave Big Brother star embraced her boys in her hospital bed as she told them the truth about her illness.
On the other side of the door, her devastated ex Jeff Brazier was waiting with hugs and the answers to any questions their sons had.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Jade wanted to spare Bobby and Freddie the pain of her funeral and so when she passed, Jeff whisked the kids away to Adelaide in Australia. There, they penned heartbreaking messages to their late mum which they placed in a bottle and set to sail in the ocean.
Jeff, 41, went from seeing the children three times a week to becoming a full-time dad, and devoted his life to helping his broken boys navigate their complicated grief.
"For six months it was like they were unaffected. I wasn't silly enough or naive enough to think that was always going to be the case, I was kind of waiting for the day when it hit them," he previously told The Telegraph.
"And then it did, and for 10 months they were completely lost in the world, they just couldn't find their feet. With all the love in the world, all the cuddles... you're fighting fires, effectively, with their grief."
Image: Bobby Brazier/Instagram) Bobby Brazier/Instagram)
Desperate to protect his sons, Jeff shut himself off from the world around - a move he later considered to have been a big mistake.
“What mattered to me more that anything was that I did everything I could to be there for the boys and their grief. So I stopped socialising with friends, stopped ringing people," he told The Sun.
“That was important for a period of time but I should have then let everyone back in a little - I didn’t.”
The former Shipwrecked star has described being a single parent as "the most difficult experience in my life" and cut back on work that would take him away from the boys.
He hired a string of au pairs with varying degrees of success and encourage his sons to seek therapy. The hardest part, though, was when their anger was directed at him.
Image: PA Archive/PA Images) PA Archive/PA Images)
“The worst possible thing I’ve heard from both boys would be, ‘I wish it was you that was dead and not Mum,'" Jeff told The Sun.
“My expectation was always that they’d take things out on me but I didn’t know to what extent."
Jade had left enough money to pay for a private education for both. So for Jeff, his main concern was trying to make sure the loss wouldn't affect their sons in later life.
His first step was to keep Jade's memory alive with conversation and home videos in a bid to keep his sons 'balanced'.
Putting his children first, Jeff moved back from Brighton to Essex in 2017 after Bobby, now 17, was bullied at school.
And when Freddie, 16, was diagnosed with ADHD he was forced to go against Jade's wishes and send him to a comprehensive that better met his needs.
Image: Jeff Brazier/Instagram) Jeff Brazier/Instagram)
Through his love, both have grown into strapping young men, with Jeff proudly showing off his sons on Instagram.
Bobby was spotted by a modelling agent in a coffee shop when he was 16 and walked in a Dolce & Gabbana catwalk show for Milan Fashion Week.
And the teenager says his looks are all down to his mum.
"I look like my mum, I'm always being told that by everyone. I have her lips and smile – and her eyes," he told the Daily Mail.
"The rest of me is dad's. As I grow up I'm starting to look more like him."
He is still studying at college; shares the household chores with his dad and pays £200 a month in rent - something Jeff imposed to encourage him to develop a good 'work ethic'.
“If the work ethic isn't there, then I would put some things in place in order to encourage that, such as charging Bobby rent," he told Nick Berry's Dadpod podcast.
"That's something I decided to do because I believe in that as a motivational tool for him to go and, you know, work four or five hours doing a pot wash in the local caff or the restaurant or whatever."
Meanwhile, the family starts every Christmas Day in the same way - by visiting Jade's grave.
In the years following her death, Jeff said he realised the boys enjoyed the day so much more if it started with the heartbreaking gesture for their mum.
"I recognised that if we didn't speak about Mum and do something for Mum at the beginning of the day, then the day didn't really go as well as a result," he told Woman's Own.
And he is certain of one thing - Jade would be so proud of her beloved boys.
"My gosh, they are just so resilient," he said.
"When Bobby landed his first fashion magazine cover he said he hoped his mum was looking down on him and smiling. And I’m sure she was.
"When I look at Bobby and Freddie I see their mother’s colourful personality shining through.
"Jade was one of the biggest characters out there and the boys have both inherited that from her. All their best qualities come from their mum."


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Kate Garraway begs British Gas for help as she 'panics about isolation'

Kate Garraway has pleaded with British Gas for help after her fridge , freezer and washing machine all stopped working .
As tight Covid restrictions are implemented across the country , Kate admitted the prospect of staying indoors without the machines had her worried .
Taking to Twitter , she penned : `` Help @ BritishGas !
- my fridge & freezer & washing machine have all stopped working - someone was coming yesterday under your home care plan but never showed up - am panicking about keeping kids & I going if we are islolating without this !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to respond , writing back : `` Hi Kate , sorry to hear the engineer did n't get to you yesterday .
I 'll be able to check things for you , please pop me over a DM with your full address and phone number . ''
British Gas have since seen to and fixed the issue .
Kate made her return to Good Morning Britain today after a seven-day absence as she feared kids Darcey , 14 and Billy , 11 , had contracted coronavirus .
And she personally thanked a handful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ husband Derek Draper 's life during his ongoing Covid battle .
Derek was hospitalised in March and admitted to intensive care by doctors in early April .
The nurses appearing on a video call from Whittington Hospital , Kate explained that they 'd been responsible for Derek 's care when he was first struck down with the bug .
`` It is so great to speak to you as I did n't know you cared for Derek at the Whittington when he first got sick and his life was saved , '' Kate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become emotional now . ''
Tearing up , she added : `` I did n't speak to you as I was getting info from people who were n't giving direct care .
Nurse Kathleen replied : `` We all did our best to help patients , including Derek , and we want to wish you all the best . ''
Nurse Karen chimed in : `` It has been a hard time , we are better prepared this time .
Kathleen and I have been training people in the Whittington trust . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be available to keep chatting off air .
`` Lovely to see those people who saved Derek 's life , '' Kate 's co-host Ben Shepherd remarked .
Derek remains in hospital - he emerged from a coma in July into a `` state of minimum consciousness '' , but faces a long road to recovery .

KATE GARRAWAY MAKES DESPERATE PLEA FOR HELP AS HOME DISASTERS STACK UP
KATE GARRAWAY MAKES DESPERATE PLEA FOR HELP AS HOME DISASTERS STACK UP
Kate Garraway has reached out to British Gas after her fridge, freezer and washing machine all stopped working
Kate Garraway begs British Gas for help as she panics about isolation with kids
Kate Garraway has pleaded with British Gas for help after her fridge, freezer and washing machine all stopped working.
As tight Covid restrictions are implemented across the country, Kate admitted the prospect of staying indoors without the machines had her worried.
Taking to Twitter, she penned: "Help @BritishGas! - my fridge & freezer & washing machine have all stopped working - someone was coming yesterday under your home care plan but never showed up - am panicking about keeping kids & I going if we are islolating without this! @BritishGasHelp."
British Gas were quick to respond, writing back: "Hi Kate, sorry to hear the engineer didn't get to you yesterday. I'll be able to check things for you, please pop me over a DM with your full address and phone number."
Image: Beretta/Sims/REX/Shutterstock) Beretta/Sims/REX/Shutterstock)
British Gas have since seen to and fixed the issue.
Kate made her return to Good Morning Britain today after a seven-day absence as she feared kids Darcey, 14 and Billy, 11, had contracted coronavirus.
And she personally thanked a handful of the medical staff who had saved husband Derek Draper's life during his ongoing Covid battle.
Derek was hospitalised in March and admitted to intensive care by doctors in early April.
Image: Daily Star, Daily Mirror, Daily Express) Daily Star, Daily Mirror, Daily Express) Image: Daily Star, Daily Mirror, Daily Express) Daily Star, Daily Mirror, Daily Express)
The nurses appearing on a video call from Whittington Hospital, Kate explained that they'd been responsible for Derek's care when he was first struck down with the bug.
"It is so great to speak to you as I didn't know you cared for Derek at the Whittington when he first got sick and his life was saved," Kate said.
"I'm going to become emotional now."
Tearing up, she added: "I didn't speak to you as I was getting info from people who weren't giving direct care.
"Thank you."
Image: ITV) ITV) Image: ITV) ITV)
Nurse Kathleen replied: "We all did our best to help patients, including Derek, and we want to wish you all the best."
Nurse Karen chimed in: "It has been a hard time, we are better prepared this time. Kathleen and I have been training people in the Whittington trust."
And Kate asked them if they would be available to keep chatting off air.
"Lovely to see those people who saved Derek's life," Kate's co-host Ben Shepherd remarked.
Derek remains in hospital - he emerged from a coma in July into a "state of minimum consciousness", but faces a long road to recovery.


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Premier League agree new big-money TV deal despite one club's disapproval

Newcastle United were the only Premier League club to vote against a new big-money TV deal in the Middle East as the fallout from their failed Saudi Arabia-backed takeover continues .
The Premier League and beIN Sports confirmed on Thursday a new three-year deal , worth £367million , beginning in 2022 .
It ensures that beIN remain as the league ’ s official broadcast partner in the Middle East and North Africa - as they have been since 2013 - despite suggestions that they could face a rival bid from Saudi Arabia .
No bid was forthcoming however , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a separate market either , which could have offered an alternative solution .
All 20 clubs voted on the latest proposal , which matches the current contract - running until 2022 - and which is the league ’ s biggest overseas contract at present .
It was voted through by a 19-1 margin , with only Newcastle - subject of a failed £300million takeover bid by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund - voting against the decision .
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said : “ We are pleased to agree a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are a longstanding and valued partner .
`` They have an outstanding track record of delivering top-quality Premier League content across all its platforms .
`` Our clubs have millions of passionate fans across the Middle East and North Africa and beIN has played an important part in promoting the Premier League and helping engage those fans with our clubs and players .
`` Dedicated coverage of every match in the Premier League , as well as comprehensive support programming and digital content , has helped to further grow interest in our clubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fantastic partnership with beIN . ''
Chairman of beIN media group , Nasser Al-Khelaifi , said : “ We are delighted to renew our long-established and trusted partnership with the Premier League through to 2025 .
`` This deal demonstrates that rights-holders who do the most to protect their intellectual property also do the most to protect the value of their media rights .
`` beIN is proud to be the Premier League ’ s official partner across all 24 countries in the Middle East & North Africa , and we look forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League fans in the region both in the lead-up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup and for many years beyond . ''
There remains no shortage of enmity between the Toon and the Premier League following the failed Saudi takeover , which saw the state-owned PIF pull out of the deal to buy 80 percent of Newcastle along with Amanda Staveley and the Reuben brothers in July .
The Saudi state had previously failed to stop industrial scale piracy of Premier League TV matches and blocked all legal bids to stop it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sports duly called on the Premier League to block the takeover of Newcastle back in April .
In September , Newcastle owner Mike Ashley threatened legal action against the Premier League , claiming that they had officially blocked the takeover in a strongly-worded statement .
The Premier League promptly hit back , accusing Ashley of releasing “ incorrect ” information , and insisting there had been no rejection , as the bid had been pulled back in July .
However , it was confirmed last month that the club “ has issued arbitration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Mirror Football email here for the latest news and transfer gossip .

The Premier League have confirmed a new £367million, three-year contract with Qatar-based beIN Sports, in a move that continues to not sit well with Newcastle United, the only club to vote against the new deal
Newcastle United were the only Premier League club to vote against a new big-money TV deal in the Middle East as the fallout from their failed Saudi Arabia-backed takeover continues.
The Premier League and beIN Sports confirmed on Thursday a new three-year deal, worth £367million, beginning in 2022.
It ensures that beIN remain as the league’s official broadcast partner in the Middle East and North Africa - as they have been since 2013 - despite suggestions that they could face a rival bid from Saudi Arabia.
No bid was forthcoming however, while Saudi has not been cornered off as a separate market either, which could have offered an alternative solution.
All 20 clubs voted on the latest proposal, which matches the current contract - running until 2022 - and which is the league’s biggest overseas contract at present.
It was voted through by a 19-1 margin, with only Newcastle - subject of a failed £300million takeover bid by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund - voting against the decision.
Image: Getty Images for Premier League) Getty Images for Premier League)
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “We are pleased to agree a significant deal with beIN SPORTS, who are a longstanding and valued partner.
"They have an outstanding track record of delivering top-quality Premier League content across all its platforms.
"Our clubs have millions of passionate fans across the Middle East and North Africa and beIN has played an important part in promoting the Premier League and helping engage those fans with our clubs and players.
"Dedicated coverage of every match in the Premier League, as well as comprehensive support programming and digital content, has helped to further grow interest in our clubs and we look forward to continuing our fantastic partnership with beIN."
Chairman of beIN media group, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, said: “We are delighted to renew our long-established and trusted partnership with the Premier League through to 2025.
"This deal demonstrates that rights-holders who do the most to protect their intellectual property also do the most to protect the value of their media rights.
"beIN is proud to be the Premier League’s official partner across all 24 countries in the Middle East & North Africa, and we look forward to inspiring and exciting the millions of Premier League fans in the region both in the lead-up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup and for many years beyond."
Image: NurPhoto/PA Images) NurPhoto/PA Images)
There remains no shortage of enmity between the Toon and the Premier League following the failed Saudi takeover, which saw the state-owned PIF pull out of the deal to buy 80 percent of Newcastle along with Amanda Staveley and the Reuben brothers in July.
The Saudi state had previously failed to stop industrial scale piracy of Premier League TV matches and blocked all legal bids to stop it by the Premier League.
Qatar-based beIN Sports duly called on the Premier League to block the takeover of Newcastle back in April.
In September, Newcastle owner Mike Ashley threatened legal action against the Premier League, claiming that they had officially blocked the takeover in a strongly-worded statement.
The Premier League promptly hit back, accusing Ashley of releasing “incorrect” information, and insisting there had been no rejection, as the bid had been pulled back in July.
However, it was confirmed last month that the club “has issued arbitration proceedings against the EPL.”
Sign up to the Mirror Football email here for the latest news and transfer gossip.


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Gary Neville brands government 'biggest set of charlatans to be ever elected'

Gary Neville has hit out at the government after confirmation of the latest review of the three-tier structure of coronavirus restrictions .
London and other areas of the country have this week been plunged into stricter Tier 3 measures as a result of rising infection rates .
But some areas who were already in Tier 3 , such as Manchester , have remained unchanged despite falling rates .
It has led Neville to brand the Tory government , led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson , as the `` biggest set of charlatans to ever be elected '' in a furious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United defender wrote on Twitter immediately after the announcement : `` They released 5 key criteria 2 weeks ago to measure Tiers by .
`` Manchester is lower than many T2 areas were 2 weeks ago .
`` Today the government ignored their own criteria .
`` The biggest set of charlatans to be ever elected . ''
Neville has been outspoken in his criticism of how the government has handled coronavirus .
He recently compared their leadership during the pandemic to his disastrous spell as manager of Valencia .
Neville told Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve got no doubt how difficult it ’ s been in the last eight to ten months being in government .
I ’ ve got no doubts .
These are unique circumstances .
“ I ’ ve been there where I was the ‘ leader ’ of a football club for four months in Valencia .
I was out of my depth .
I was spinning and I had to just jump off the roundabout because ultimately I was out of my depth and I didn ’ t know what I was doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel I ’ ve seen in the leadership of this country in the last eight months .
They ’ re out of their depth .
“ The countries who have dealt with this really well , they ’ ve had definite and sure leaders , people who have been in control , composed , clear plans , clear communication strategy , aggressive testing , disciplined tracing , they ’ ve had border controls in place .
“ They ’ ve made decisions that have been unpopular at times , but they ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ re still eight months later non the wiser as to how our long-term looks , how our short-term looks , how our medium-term looks .
“ We ’ re in Manchester and we don ’ t know whether we ’ re coming out of a lockdown in two weeks and if we don ’ t come out of that lockdown , we don ’ t know if we ’ ll be going back in it again two weeks later .
“ We ’ ve got to have a plan that surely @ @ @

Former Man Utd and England star Gary Neville has slammed Boris Johnson and the Tory government over their review into the coronavirus tier restrictions
Gary Neville has hit out at the government after confirmation of the latest review of the three-tier structure of coronavirus restrictions.
London and other areas of the country have this week been plunged into stricter Tier 3 measures as a result of rising infection rates.
But some areas who were already in Tier 3, such as Manchester, have remained unchanged despite falling rates.
It has led Neville to brand the Tory government, led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, as the "biggest set of charlatans to ever be elected" in a furious response.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
The former England and Manchester United defender wrote on Twitter immediately after the announcement: "They released 5 key criteria 2 weeks ago to measure Tiers by.
"Manchester is lower than many T2 areas were 2 weeks ago.
"Today the government ignored their own criteria.
"The biggest set of charlatans to be ever elected."
Neville has been outspoken in his criticism of how the government has handled coronavirus.
Image: PA) PA)
He recently compared their leadership during the pandemic to his disastrous spell as manager of Valencia.
Neville told Sky earlier this month: “I’ve got no doubt how difficult it’s been in the last eight to ten months being in government. I’ve got no doubts. These are unique circumstances.
“I’ve been there where I was the ‘leader’ of a football club for four months in Valencia. I was out of my depth. I was spinning and I had to just jump off the roundabout because ultimately I was out of my depth and I didn’t know what I was doing.
“That’s what I feel I’ve seen in the leadership of this country in the last eight months. They’re out of their depth.
“The countries who have dealt with this really well, they’ve had definite and sure leaders, people who have been in control, composed, clear plans, clear communication strategy, aggressive testing, disciplined tracing, they’ve had border controls in place.
“They’ve made decisions that have been unpopular at times, but they’ve really handled the virus well.
“We’re still eight months later non the wiser as to how our long-term looks, how our short-term looks, how our medium-term looks.
“We’re in Manchester and we don’t know whether we’re coming out of a lockdown in two weeks and if we don’t come out of that lockdown, we don’t know if we’ll be going back in it again two weeks later.
“We’ve got to have a plan that surely works.”


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Baby rushed to hospital after swallowing 'significant' amount of Crystal Meth

A baby was rushed to hospital after swallowing a `` significant '' amount of Crystal Meth before losing consciousness , according to reports .
The one-year-old child was left fighting for his life following the incident at an apartment in Gold Coast , Queensland , on November 6 .
He was taken to an apartment in Hamilton Avenue in Surfers Paradise by his mum , aged 20 , where he consumed the drug methamphetamine - often referred to as 'ice ' , police say .
The mother and three others became aware something was wrong after the baby began being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
The four adults took the boy to a basement area and then on to the street , with passersby seeing him `` unresponsive '' , reports news.com.au .
An ambulance took the infant to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition .
Hospital test results allegedly showed the illegal substance in the baby 's body , police have said .
However , there is no suggestion the child was given the drugs deliberately and he has since made a full recovery , reports the Courier Mail .
The child 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - handed herself into police yesterday following a month-long investigation and has been charged with endangering life of children by exposure .
If convicted , she faces up to seven years in prison .
She has been granted bail and is due at Southport Magistrates Court on January 8 , 2021 .
The matter has been referred to the Department of Child Safety .

The baby, one, is understood to have consumed large amounts of methamphetamine while visiting an apartment with his mum, who faces up to seven years in prison if convicted
Baby boy rushed to hospital after swallowing 'significant' amount of Crystal Meth
A baby was rushed to hospital after swallowing a "significant" amount of Crystal Meth before losing consciousness, according to reports.
The one-year-old child was left fighting for his life following the incident at an apartment in Gold Coast, Queensland, on November 6.
He was taken to an apartment in Hamilton Avenue in Surfers Paradise by his mum, aged 20, where he consumed the drug methamphetamine - often referred to as 'ice', police say.
The mother and three others became aware something was wrong after the baby began being sick and then "partially lost consciousness".
Image: AFP /AFP via Getty Images) AFP /AFP via Getty Images)
The four adults took the boy to a basement area and then on to the street, with passersby seeing him "unresponsive", reports news.com.au.
An ambulance took the infant to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.
Hospital test results allegedly showed the illegal substance in the baby's body, police have said.
However, there is no suggestion the child was given the drugs deliberately and he has since made a full recovery, reports the Courier Mail.
The child's mum - who has not been named - handed herself into police yesterday following a month-long investigation and has been charged with endangering life of children by exposure.
If convicted, she faces up to seven years in prison.
She has been granted bail and is due at Southport Magistrates Court on January 8, 2021.
The matter has been referred to the Department of Child Safety.


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Teacher made girls line up on knees to check skirt length in 'demeaning' act

A group of year 7 pupils were made to line up on their knees to have the lengths of their skirts checked .
Girls at the Brighton Secondary College in Brighton East , Melbourne , were asked to line up by a female teacher .
They were asked to get on their knees to see if the bottom of their skirts touched the ground , the Herald Sun reported .
The incident caused outrage among parents with more than 150 reportedly commenting on social media on a now deleted thread .
Some hit out at the incident as “ patriarchal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ act of public shaming ” .
The school has since apologised and said the incident does not reflect its values .
Brighton Secondary College Acting Principal Pat Gargano told news.com.au in a statement : “ This isolated incident does not reflect the school ’ s values of respect , empathy , and integrity .
“ It is not our practice to conduct uniform checks in this way and the staff member was immediately counselled as soon as we became aware .
“ The school unreservedly apologised to the school community last week for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was conducted .
“ In line with the Department ’ s requirements , female students at Brighton Secondary College have the option to wear pants and shorts to school throughout the year.
” Mirror Online has contacted the school for further comment .

The school has apologised after girls at the Brighton Secondary College in Brighton East, Melbourne, were asked to line up by a female teacher to have their skirt lengths checked
Teacher made girls line up on knees to have skirt length checked in 'demeaning' act
A group of year 7 pupils were made to line up on their knees to have the lengths of their skirts checked.
Girls at the Brighton Secondary College in Brighton East, Melbourne, were asked to line up by a female teacher.
They were asked to get on their knees to see if the bottom of their skirts touched the ground, the Herald Sun reported.
The incident caused outrage among parents with more than 150 reportedly commenting on social media on a now deleted thread.
Some hit out at the incident as “patriarchal” and a “demeaning and archaic act of public shaming”.
The school has since apologised and said the incident does not reflect its values.
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Brighton Secondary College Acting Principal Pat Gargano told news.com.au in a statement: “This isolated incident does not reflect the school’s values of respect, empathy, and integrity.
“It is not our practice to conduct uniform checks in this way and the staff member was immediately counselled as soon as we became aware.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
“The school unreservedly apologised to the school community last week for the way in which the uniform check was conducted.
“In line with the Department’s requirements, female students at Brighton Secondary College have the option to wear pants and shorts to school throughout the year.”
Mirror Online has contacted the school for further comment.


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Tier 2 lockdown rules and what you can do in Covid high risk areas

Millions of people in England are living in Tier 2 restrictions , the middle level of the government 's tiered system of Covid alert levels .
Every place in England is currently into one of three levels - Tier 1 is medium risk , Tier 2 is high risk and Tier 3 is very high risk .
Just days before Christmas , vast swathes of southern and eastern England have been plunged into the most severe Tier 3 restrictions , with just two areas - Bristol and North Somerset moving the other day .
Tiering allocations will also be formally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review can be expected around New Year .
You can find the full list of Tier 2 locations further down , or use our postcode checker to confirm which tier you live in .
Here 's a breakdown of all the new rules that are now in place for the 32million people living with Tier 2 restrictions .
All shops in Tier 2 locations are now allowed to reopen .
As well as non-essential shops , people living in Tier 2 can also visit hairdressers and beauty salons once again .
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , bowling lanes and soft play centres .
The big change in Tier 2 is for pubs and restaurants .
Hospitality businesses will only be allowed to serve alcohol if it 's part of a substantial meal .
Pubs that can ’ t serve such meals will have to close .
You can go inside and have a meal with someone in your household , but if you want to meat a friend and eat with them you will have to wrap up warm and brave the cold as you 'll have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drink , you can pre-order online or over the phone then take them to the park , sitting socially distanced with friends in a group no bigger than six .
You can finish your drink after eating your meal , so you wo n't have to leave the pub immediately .
However , venues will interpret the rules in different ways and you may be asked to order them all at the same time .
The curfew has also changed , meaning it ’ s last orders at 10pm and closing time at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a staggered way , rather than all at once the moment the clock strikes 10. Leisure facilities such as gyms and swimming pools can reopen on December 2 , while outdoor sports can also resume .
That means organised amateur sport such as football can take place again .
The rule of six will resume outdoors - both in public spaces and private gardens - and still include children of all ages .
However , you can not meet anyone socially indoors - at a private home or public setting - unless they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You ca n't swap into another group nearby either .
After months of waiting , spectators will be allowed to return to watch sport once again .
In Tier 2 locations , stadiums and other venues can allow in 50 % of their overall capacity or 2,000 people , whichever is smaller .
Again , they can open their doors to 1,000 people or 50 % of their capacity , whichever is smaller .
The guidance for Tier 2 , along with all three tiers , is for people to work from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Support bubbles have been widened across all three tiers .
It means couples with a child aged nine months or younger , or with a child under five who needs care for a disability , can form a support bubble with another whole household .
Previously , it had to be a single adults household , although childcare bubbles existed , and will continue .
If you live in a Tier 2 location you can go on holiday or to a second home as there is no blanket “ stay at home ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce the number of journeys they make though .
The foreign travel ban from national lockdown will also be lifted .
You 're also told not to travel into Tier 3 areas unless necessary for things like work or education .
Weddings are allowed once again , with a maximum of 15 guests for a ceremony , regardless of tier , whether it ’ s a wedding or civil partnership .
Funerals can have 30 mourners , with only 15 allowed to go on to the wake .
Services can again be held @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are consistent with the tier you ’ re in .
There is currently no news on carol singing .
Both will be allowed to go ahead .
Most of England is now in Tier 2 restrictions .
The locations classed as high risk are : Cambridgeshire ( except Peterborough from 12.01am on Saturday ) East Sussex ( except Hastings and Rother on the Kent border of East Sussex from 12.01am on Saturday ) Surrey ( only Waverley from 12.01am on Saturday ) Hampshire ( except the Isle of Wight in Tier 1 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 from 12.01am on Saturday )

Matt Hancock: Three quarters of the population of England are now going to be in Tier 4
Matt Hancock: Three quarters of the population of England are now going to be in Tier 4
The government reviews the coronavirus Tier system every two weeks, and decides which areas should be in Tiers 1, 2, 3 or 4. Here are the current Tier 2 Covid restrictions for places classed as high risk
Tier lockdown 2 rules: Everything you can do in Covid high alert areas
When the three tier lockdown system was introduced, millions of people in England were living in Tier 2 restrictions, the middle level of the government's tiered system of Covid alert levels.
Every place in England is currently into one of four levels - Tier 1 is medium alert, Tier 2 is high alert, Tier 3 is very high alert while the new Tier 4 has 'stay at home' messaging.
On Boxing Day two more parts of England - Cornwall and Herefordshire - will move from Tier 1 to Tier 2, with many more parts of the country - mainly in the South West - going from Tier 2 to Tier 3.
However, as of New Year's Eve, no areas in England will be in Tier 2.
Tiering allocations will also be formally reviewed every 14 days, so another review can be expected around January 13.
You can find the full list of Tier 2 locations further down, or use our postcode checker to confirm which tier you live in.
Tier 2 rules
Here's a breakdown of all the new rules that are now in place for the 32million people living with Tier 2 restrictions.
Shops and retail
All shops in Tier 2 locations are now allowed to reopen.
As well as non-essential shops, people living in Tier 2 can also visit hairdressers and beauty salons once again.
You can also go to cinemas, bingo halls, bowling lanes and soft play centres.
Pubs and restaurants
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
The big change in Tier 2 is for pubs and restaurants.
Hospitality businesses will only be allowed to serve alcohol if it's part of a substantial meal. Pubs that can’t serve such meals will have to close.
You can go inside and have a meal with someone in your household, but if you want to meat a friend and eat with them you will have to wrap up warm and brave the cold as you'll have to sit outside.
If you want a drink, you can pre-order online or over the phone then take them to the park, sitting socially distanced with friends in a group no bigger than six.
You can finish your drink after eating your meal, so you won't have to leave the pub immediately. However, venues will interpret the rules in different ways and you may be asked to order them all at the same time.
The curfew has also changed, meaning it’s last orders at 10pm and closing time at 11pm to allow customers to depart in a staggered way, rather than all at once the moment the clock strikes 10.
Leisure and exercise
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
Leisure facilities such as gyms and swimming pools can reopen on December 2, while outdoor sports can also resume.
That means organised amateur sport such as football can take place again.
Meeting friends and family
The rule of six will resume outdoors - both in public spaces and private gardens - and still include children of all ages.
However, you cannot meet anyone socially indoors - at a private home or public setting - unless they're from your household or support bubble. You can't swap into another group nearby either.
Sport crowds
Image: PA) PA)
After months of waiting, spectators will be allowed to return to watch sport once again.
In Tier 2 locations, stadiums and other venues can allow in 50% of their overall capacity or 2,000 people, whichever is smaller.
Theatres
Again, they can open their doors to 1,000 people or 50% of their capacity, whichever is smaller.
Working from home
The guidance for Tier 2, along with all three tiers, is for people to work from home and avoid travel where possible.
Support bubbles
Support bubbles have been widened across all three tiers.
It means couples with a child aged nine months or younger, or with a child under five who needs care for a disability, can form a support bubble with another whole household.
Previously, it had to be a single adults household, although childcare bubbles existed, and will continue.
Holiday and travel
Image: PA) PA)
If you live in a Tier 2 location you can go on holiday or to a second home as there is no blanket “stay at home” order.
People are being asked to reduce the number of journeys they make though.
The foreign travel ban from national lockdown will also be lifted.
You're also told not to travel into Tier 3 areas unless necessary for things like work or education.
Weddings and funerals
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Weddings are allowed once again, with a maximum of 15 guests for a ceremony, regardless of tier, whether it’s a wedding or civil partnership.
Funerals can have 30 mourners, with only 15 allowed to go on to the wake.
Worship
Services can again be held as long as sub-groups within the venue are consistent with the tier you’re in.
There is currently no news on carol singing.
Driving lessons and tests
Both will be allowed to go ahead.
Tier 2 locations
No areas in England will be in Tier 2 from Thursday, December 31.


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Woman shares 'hidden layer' on nail file and people never knew it existed

A woman 's video has gone viral after she revealed the 'hidden layer ' on her nail file - and lots of viewers admitted they did n't know it existed .
A video of her peeling off the top layer has racked up thousands of views as she admitted her mind was `` blown '' by the discovery .
The caption on the video says : `` So it turns out the rumours are true.. , '' and shows a woman peeling off the top to find another nail file layer below .
The video has been viewed more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and has racked up thousands of likes .
Before you comment pointing out that this is n't mind-blowing , it turns out that a surprising amount of people in the comments did n't know it existed before watching the video .
One viewer commented : `` How '' with a series of mind-blown emojis to express her shock at the footage .
A second added : '' Omg I recently noticed the layers and peeled it .
`` Damn there was a whole new nail file . ''
A third advised : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] do this , so do n't be trying it on the files y'all have laying around , '' while another viewer advised : `` It depends on the brand . ''
But one fed-up viewer , who found themselves in their girlfriend 's bad books , hit back to complain : `` Just destroyed 3 of my birds nail files .
She 's fuming , you lied to me . ''
Meanwhile , one woman was urged to break up with her boyfriend after sharing CCTV of her boyfriend playing with her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as thousands of people warned that that man had acted unreasonably in front of the pooch .
But others defended him- and pointed out that he was clearly joking .
Following the row , the woman uploaded another video showing the two getting along like a house on fire .
She added : `` They 're literally BFFs , sorry to disappoint . ''
In the video , she commented : `` For everyone saying I should leave my bf for calling my dog a d*** , I think things are going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clips featuring the duo .

Woman shares 'hidden layer' on nail file and people never knew it existed
Woman shares 'hidden layer' on nail file and people never knew it existed
A viral TikTok video showing a "hidden layer" on a nail file has been viewed thousands of time, with some people saying their minds were "blown" by the discovery
Woman shares 'hidden layer' on nail file and people never knew it existed
A woman's video has gone viral after she revealed the 'hidden layer' on her nail file - and lots of viewers admitted they didn't know it existed.
A video of her peeling off the top layer has racked up thousands of views as she admitted her mind was "blown" by the discovery.
The caption on the video says: "So it turns out the rumours are true..," and shows a woman peeling off the top to find another nail file layer below.
Image: luciaramsden/TikTok) luciaramsden/TikTok)
The video has been viewed more than 600,000 times since being shared on TikTok and has racked up thousands of likes.
Before you comment pointing out that this isn't mind-blowing, it turns out that a surprising amount of people in the comments didn't know it existed before watching the video.
One viewer commented: "How" with a series of mind-blown emojis to express her shock at the footage.
Image: luciaramsden/TikTok) luciaramsden/TikTok)
A second added:"Omg I recently noticed the layers and peeled it.
"Damn there was a whole new nail file."
A third advised: "PSA: Not all [nail files] do this, so don't be trying it on the files y'all have laying around," while another viewer advised: "It depends on the brand."
But one fed-up viewer, who found themselves in their girlfriend's bad books, hit back to complain: "Just destroyed 3 of my birds nail files. She's fuming, you lied to me."
Meanwhile, one woman was urged to break up with her boyfriend after sharing CCTV of her boyfriend playing with her dog.
The footage left people divided, as thousands of people warned that that man had acted unreasonably in front of the pooch.
But others defended him- and pointed out that he was clearly joking.
Following the row, the woman uploaded another video showing the two getting along like a house on fire.
She added: "They're literally BFFs, sorry to disappoint."
In the video, she commented: "For everyone saying I should leave my bf for calling my dog a d***, I think things are going fine," alongside a montage of clips featuring the duo.


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Jesy Nelson speaks for first time since quitting Little Mix over mental health

Jesy Nelson has spoken out for the first time since her departure from Little Mix .
The singer , 29 , has been taking some time away from the spotlight after announcing she 'd quit the band .
In an emotional statement posted to her Instagram Story , Jesy wrote on Thursday : `` I just want to say thank you so much to everyone of you that has shown me so much love and support over the past few days some of your messages have made me feel so emotional and I appreciate it so much .
Love you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the singer announced her departure from the band on December 15 .
Jesy had previously announced an `` extended break '' from the group due to `` private medical reasons '' .
The group will continue as a trio , comprised of Jesy 's fellow original bandmates Perrie Edwards , Leigh-Anne Pinnock , and Jade Thirlwall .
Jesy had announced in a statement : `` To all my Mixers , '' The past nine years in Little Mix has been the most incredible time of my life .
`` We have achieved things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our first Brit Award to our sold out shows at the O2 . ''
The star continued : `` Making friends and fans all over the world I cant thank you all enough form the bottom of my heart for making me feel like the luckiest girl in the world .
`` You have always been there to support and encourage me and I will never every forget it .
`` The truth is recently being in the band has really taken a toll on my mental health .
I find the constant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and living up to expectations very hard . ''
Jesy added : `` There comes a time in life when we need to reinvest in taking care of ourselves rather than focusing on making other people happy , and I feel like now is the time to begin the process .
`` I need to spend some time with the people I love , doing thing that make me happy .
I 'm ready to embark on a new chapter in my life - I 'm not sure what it 's going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope you 'll still be there to support me . ''
Jesy signed off by thanking her fans and her former bandmates for all their support .
Following the announcement , Little Mix announced on social media : `` After an amazing 9 years together Jesy has made the decision to leave Little Mix .
This is an incredibly sad time for all of us but we are fully supportive of Jesy .
`` We love her very much and agree that it is so important that she does what is right for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are still very much enjoying our Little Mix journey and the 3 of us are not ready for it to be over . ''
They continued : `` We know that Jesy leaving the group is going to be really upsetting news for our fans .
We love you guys so much and are so grateful for your loyalty and continued support of all of us .
`` We ’ re looking forward to seeing so many of you on tour .
Love always , Jade , Perrie and Leigh-Anne xxx . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 24-hour service available every day of the year .
If you prefer to write down how you ’ re feeling , or if you ’ re worried about being overheard on the phone , you can email Samaritans at jo @ samaritans.org

JESY NELSON 'READY TO EMBARK ON A NEW CHAPTER' AS SHE LEAVES LITTLE MIX
JESY NELSON 'READY TO EMBARK ON A NEW CHAPTER' AS SHE LEAVES LITTLE MIX
Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson has spoken out for the first time since her exit from the band, which will now continue as a trio with Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Jade Thirlwall
Jesy Nelson speaks for first time since quitting Little Mix for her mental health
Jesy Nelson has spoken out for the first time since her departure from Little Mix.
The singer, 29, has been taking some time away from the spotlight after announcing she'd quit the band.
In an emotional statement posted to her Instagram Story, Jesy wrote on Thursday: "I just want to say thank you so much to everyone of you that has shown me so much love and support over the past few days some of your messages have made me feel so emotional and I appreciate it so much. Love you all."
The update comes after the singer announced her departure from the band on December 15.
Jesy had previously announced an "extended break" from the group due to "private medical reasons".
The group will continue as a trio, comprised of Jesy's fellow original bandmates Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Jade Thirlwall.
Image: jesynelson/Instagram) jesynelson/Instagram)
Jesy had announced in a statement: "To all my Mixers,
"The past nine years in Little Mix has been the most incredible time of my life.
"We have achieved things I never thought possible. From winning our first Brit Award to our sold out shows at the O2."
The star continued: "Making friends and fans all over the world I cant thank you all enough form the bottom of my heart for making me feel like the luckiest girl in the world.
"You have always been there to support and encourage me and I will never every forget it.
"The truth is recently being in the band has really taken a toll on my mental health. I find the constant pressure of being in a girl group and living up to expectations very hard."
Image: AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images)
Jesy added: "There comes a time in life when we need to reinvest in taking care of ourselves rather than focusing on making other people happy, and I feel like now is the time to begin the process.
"I need to spend some time with the people I love, doing thing that make me happy. I'm ready to embark on a new chapter in my life - I'm not sure what it's going to look like right now, but I hope you'll still be there to support me."
Image: jesynelson/Instagram) jesynelson/Instagram)
Jesy signed off by thanking her fans and her former bandmates for all their support.
Following the announcement, Little Mix announced on social media: "After an amazing 9 years together Jesy has made the decision to leave Little Mix. This is an incredibly sad time for all of us but we are fully supportive of Jesy.
"We love her very much and agree that it is so important that she does what is right for her mental health and well-being. We are still very much enjoying our Little Mix journey and the 3 of us are not ready for it to be over."
Image: jadethirlwall/Instagram) jadethirlwall/Instagram)
They continued: "We know that Jesy leaving the group is going to be really upsetting news for our fans. We love you guys so much and are so grateful for your loyalty and continued support of all of us.
"We’re looking forward to seeing so many of you on tour. Love always, Jade, Perrie and Leigh-Anne xxx."
* Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Reusing a mask is 'less effective than not having a face covering at all'

Wearing a used mask could be less effective against Covid-19 than not having any face covering at all , a new study has claimed .
Researchers looking at the three-layer pleated surgical face masks , sometimes worn by healthcare professionals , found a dramatic reduction in how much particles were filtered out with multiple use .
The masks filtered out nearly three-quarters of particles .
But , when worn again this was reduced to one-quarter of particles the study claimed .
This is because masks change the way air flows around your face , protecting you from catching , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the masks deform the shape and limit their utility .
So they are still perfectly safe to use once , just not multiple times the study suggests .
The researchers , from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and California Baptist University , also found that wearing a poor quality mask could be worse than going without .
Their research claimed that masks with less than 30 % filtration efficiency could be worse than not wearing one .
This means the reused masks , which have less than the 30 % filtration efficiency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wearing a face covering .
Dr Jinxiang Xi , an associate professor of biomedical engineering at UMass Lowell , said : “ It is natural to think that wearing a mask , no matter new or old , should always be better than nothing .
“ Our results show that this belief is only true for particles larger than five micrometers , but not for fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers.
” The researchers said their findings highlighted how different mask shapes could lead to differing levels of protection .
In the study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track airflow around a surgical mask with pleats as well as looking at the aerosols after they went through the mask and where they ended up in the body .
The wearing of a mask prevents air entering at specific points , like the nose or mouth as it usually does .
Instead , air enters across the entire surface of a mask the study found .
They found the filtration efficiency of a three-layer surgical mask varies from 65 % when first used , down to only 25 % on reuse .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ pleats in the mask become deformed over time and affect the airflow .
Dr Xi said : “ We hope public health authorities strengthen the current preventative measures to curb COVID-19 transmission , like choosing a more effective mask , wearing it properly for the highest protection , and avoid using an excessively used or expired surgical mask .
”

A new study claims that wearing the same pleated mask more than once can actually be less effective than not wearing a face covering
Reusing a mask is less effective than not having a face covering at all, new study says
Wearing a used mask could be less effective against Covid-19 than not having any face covering at all, a new study has claimed.
Researchers looking at the three-layer pleated surgical face masks, sometimes worn by healthcare professionals, found a dramatic reduction in how much particles were filtered out with multiple use.
The masks filtered out nearly three-quarters of particles.
But, when worn again this was reduced to one-quarter of particles the study claimed.
This is because masks change the way air flows around your face, protecting you from catching, or spreading the virus.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
But multiple use of the masks deform the shape and limit their utility.
So they are still perfectly safe to use once, just not multiple times the study suggests.
The researchers, from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and California Baptist University, also found that wearing a poor quality mask could be worse than going without.
Their research claimed that masks with less than 30% filtration efficiency could be worse than not wearing one.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
This means the reused masks, which have less than the 30% filtration efficiency, could be less effective than not wearing a face covering.
Dr Jinxiang Xi, an associate professor of biomedical engineering at UMass Lowell, said: “It is natural to think that wearing a mask, no matter new or old, should always be better than nothing.
“Our results show that this belief is only true for particles larger than five micrometers, but not for fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers.”
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
The researchers said their findings highlighted how different mask shapes could lead to differing levels of protection.
In the study, they developed a computer model to track airflow around a surgical mask with pleats as well as looking at the aerosols after they went through the mask and where they ended up in the body.
The wearing of a mask prevents air entering at specific points, like the nose or mouth as it usually does.
Instead, air enters across the entire surface of a mask the study found.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
They found the filtration efficiency of a three-layer surgical mask varies from 65% when first used, down to only 25% on reuse.
This is likely down to how the pleats in the mask become deformed over time and affect the airflow.
Dr Xi said: “We hope public health authorities strengthen the current preventative measures to curb COVID-19 transmission, like choosing a more effective mask, wearing it properly for the highest protection, and avoid using an excessively used or expired surgical mask.”


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Horrific footage captures woman hurling terrified German Shepherd from balcony

Allison Murphy , 35 , has been charged with animal cruelty after she flung the pooch from the two-storey building in Daytona Beach , Florida .
Police were called to a motel where Murphy was staying after he allegedly attacked a maid and was threatening to jump from the second floor .
When police arrived she was locked inside her room .
After eventually opening the door , police say she walked out with her dog on a lead before allegedly picking the animal up and throwing him from the balcony .
In a statement , Volusia County Sheriff 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feet first and ran away but was corralled by bysanders .
`` Murphy was immediately taken into custody by deputies and police .
`` Volusia County Animal Services took custody of the dog and nicknamed her 'Miracle ' as no name was provided .
`` She was taken to Atlantic Animal Hospital in Port Orange for emergency evaluation and is now in the care of Animal Services . ''
While Miracle was unharmed by the fall , vets found a sewing needle embedded in her right thigh .
Police added : `` Miracle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needle and is currently recovering .
`` A petition for custody over Miracle will be scheduled with the courts in the following weeks . ''

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WARNING DISTRESSING FOOTAGE: Allison Murphy, 35, has been charged with animal cruelty after she flung the pooch from the two-storey building in Daytona Beach, Florida, before an examination found a needle embedded in its thigh
Horrific footage captured a woman hurling a terrified German Shepherd from a balcony.
Allison Murphy, 35, has been charged with animal cruelty after she flung the pooch from the two-storey building in Daytona Beach, Florida.
Police were called to a motel where Murphy was staying after he allegedly attacked a maid and was threatening to jump from the second floor.
When police arrived she was locked inside her room.
After eventually opening the door, police say she walked out with her dog on a lead before allegedly picking the animal up and throwing him from the balcony.
In a statement, Volusia County Sheriff's Office said: "The dog landed feet first and ran away but was corralled by bysanders.
"Murphy was immediately taken into custody by deputies and police.
"Volusia County Animal Services took custody of the dog and nicknamed her 'Miracle' as no name was provided.
"She was taken to Atlantic Animal Hospital in Port Orange for emergency evaluation and is now in the care of Animal Services."
While Miracle was unharmed by the fall, vets found a sewing needle embedded in her right thigh.
Police added: "Miracle underwent a procedure to safely remove the needle and is currently recovering.
"A petition for custody over Miracle will be scheduled with the courts in the following weeks."


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--What you can and can't do in Tier 3 as more areas become 'very high risk'

Millions more people will be living under England 's most severe Covid restrictions after vast swathes of the south plummeted into Tier 3 .
After London parts of Essex and parts of Hertfordshire entered the top tier on Wednesday - making them very high risk areas - they have now been joined by more areas including Buckinghamshire , the rest of Hertfordshire and most of Surrey .
Two thirds of England 's population - 38million people - will be in Tier 3 from Saturday as a result of the recent changes .
The three tiers range from 1 , medium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high risk areas , with Tier 3 being classed as very high risk and having the most severe measures in place .
The government has said the tiers will be reviewed every 14 days , and the system is set to remain in place across England until the end of March .
These are the new rules on what you can and ca n't do in Tier 3 areas .
Every non-essential shop is allowed to reopen in Tier 3 areas on December 2 , so you can visit whichever retailer you want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as hairdressers and beauty salons .
The picture is not so rosy for hospitality businesses .
Pubs , restaurants and hotels in Tier 3 areas will have to remain closed this time around , except for takeaway , delivery , click-and-collect or drive-through services .
They wo n't open during the five day Christmas bubble period from December 23-27 either .
All venues classed as providing 'indoor entertainment ' must remain closed in Tier 3 areas .
Gyms , swimming pools and other leisure facilities in Tier 3 locations can reopen on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sport and exercise classes can also restart , so long as the rule of six is observed .
Indoor sport can only continue if it involved just one household or bubble .
As before , if you live in very high risk areas can not mix with friends and family indoors at all unless they 're a member of your household or support bubble .
You can not go into someone else 's home or garden , or meet at any other indoor location .
The only place you can see other family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open public space such as a park or beach .
In these instances , you can not meet in groups larger than six - with even babies counting towards that total .
However once the Christmas bubble rules come in from December 23-27 , three households can mix indoors , in private gardens , outdoor public spaces or places of worship .
A new exemption allows a multi-adult household to form a support bubble with another if they have a child under one or a child under five who needs care .
Crowds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tier 3 locations , so you ca n't go and see your favourite team until your area is in Tier 2 or 1 .
Working from home where possible in Tier 3 areas is again encouraged .
As before , if you live in Tier 3 you should n't be travelling to other parts of the UK except for specific reasons .
The Government guidance lists these as work , education , youth services , to receive medical treatment or because of caring responsibilities .
This means you should n't be going for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on holiday .
Weddings and civil partnerships can resume in Tier 3 locations with a maximum of 15 guests .
However , receptions are not allowed .
30 people can attend funerals , but only 15 people can go on to the wake .
Can go ahead as long as the sub-group you 're in the venue with is consistent with social gathering rules for your tier .
All the rules will be the same in ever Tier 3 area this time , meaning no optional additional measures for each individual area this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cities wo n't have the right to negotiate or appeal the decision , although they can negotiate the details of mass testing and similar measures .
Many more parts of England are in the top tier than before the national lockdown .
They are : Hertfordshire ( from 12.01am on Saturday except areas below which are already in Tier 3 ) Hastings and Rother on the Kent border of East Sussex ( from 12.01am on Saturday ) Portsmouth , Gosport and Havant in Hampshire ( from 12.01am on Saturday ) Surrey ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday )

London set to move to Tier 3 of lockdown restrictions
London set to move to Tier 3 of lockdown restrictions
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Tier 3 restrictions are tougher than before, with more areas included. Here's what is allowed in areas with the most severe Covid rules
Tier 3 lockdown rules: Everything you can do in very high alert areas
12 million Brits will be living with Tier Three regulations from New Year's Eve.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed a number of areas, including Liverpool, North Yorkshire and Cornwall, would be moving up into Tier Three at midnight tonight.
He also confirmed that more parts of England, including Newcastle, Leicester and Nottingham, will go into the new, and even more severe, Tier 4.
The four tiers range from 1, medium risk, up to Tier 2 for high risk areas, and the very high risk Tier 3, with the newly-introduced message for Tier 4 being 'stay at home'.
The government has said the tiers will be reviewed every 14 days, and the system is set to remain in place across England until the end of March.
There are currently no areas in Tier Two and only one area (Isles of Scilly) in Tier One.
Tier 3 restrictions
These are the new rules on what you can and can't do in Tier 3 areas.
Shops and retail
Every non-essential shop is allowed to reopen in Tier 3 areas on December 2, so you can visit whichever retailer you want.
That rule also applies to businesses such as hairdressers and beauty salons.
Pubs and restaurants
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
The picture is not so rosy for hospitality businesses.
Pubs, restaurants and hotels in Tier 3 areas will have to remain closed this time around, except for takeaway, delivery, click-and-collect or drive-through services.
They won't open during the five day Christmas bubble period from December 23-27 either.
Indoor entertainment
All venues classed as providing 'indoor entertainment' must remain closed in Tier 3 areas.
This includes cinemas, theatres, bowling lanes, bingo halls and soft play areas.
Leisure and exercise
Gyms, swimming pools and other leisure facilities in Tier 3 locations can reopen on December 2.
Also, organised outdoor sport and exercise classes can also restart, so long as the rule of six is observed. Indoor sport can only continue if it involved just one household or bubble.
Meeting friends and family
As before, if you live in very high risk areas cannot mix with friends and family indoors at all unless they're a member of your household or support bubble.
Image: Tom Wren SWNS) Tom Wren SWNS)
You cannot go into someone else's home or garden, or meet at any other indoor location.
The only place you can see other family and friends to socialise is in an open public space such as a park or beach. In these instances, you cannot meet in groups larger than six - with even babies counting towards that total.
However once the Christmas bubble rules come in from December 23-27, three households can mix indoors, in private gardens, outdoor public spaces or places of worship.
Support bubbles
A new exemption allows a multi-adult household to form a support bubble with another if they have a child under one or a child under five who needs care.
Sport crowds
Crowds at sporting events are not allowed in Tier 3 locations, so you can't go and see your favourite team until your area is in Tier 2 or 1.
Working from home
Working from home where possible in Tier 3 areas is again encouraged.
Holiday and travel
As before, if you live in Tier 3 you shouldn't be travelling to other parts of the UK except for specific reasons.
The Government guidance lists these as work, education, youth services, to receive medical treatment or because of caring responsibilities.
This means you shouldn't be going for nights out in different tiers or going on holiday.
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Weddings and funerals
Weddings and civil partnerships can resume in Tier 3 locations with a maximum of 15 guests. However, receptions are not allowed.
30 people can attend funerals, but only 15 people can go on to the wake.
Worship
Can go ahead as long as the sub-group you're in the venue with is consistent with social gathering rules for your tier.
Driving lessons and tests
Can go ahead.
Local bespoke rules
All the rules will be the same in ever Tier 3 area this time, meaning no optional additional measures for each individual area this time.
Councils in Tier 3 towns and cities won't have the right to negotiate or appeal the decision, although they can negotiate the details of mass testing and similar measures.
Tier 3 locations
Many more parts of England are in Tier 3 than before the national lockdown, although it is no longer the top tier. They are:
From 12.01am on December 31:
Rutland
Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin
Worcestershire (Bromsgrove, Malvern Hills, Redditch, Worcester, Wychavon, Wyre Forest)
Herefordshire
Liverpool City Region (Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, Wirral, St Helens)
York & North Yorkshire (Scarborough, Hambleton, Richmondshire, Selby, Craven, Ryedale, Harrogate, City of York)
Bath and North East Somerset
Devon, Plymouth, Torbay (East Devon, Exeter, Mid Devon, North Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge, Torridge, West Devon, Plymouth, Torbay)
Cornwall
Dorset
Wiltshire
Other areas already in Tier 3:
East Midlands (all moving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
Derby and Derbyshire
Leicester City
Leicestershire
Lincolnshire
Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
Northamptonshire
North East (allmoving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
North East Combined Authority (this area includes the local authorities of County Durham, Gateshead, South Tyneside and Sunderland)
North of Tyne Combined Authority (this area includes the local authorities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, North Tyneside and Northumberland)
Tees Valley Combined Authority (this area includes the local authorities of Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees)
North West (all moving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
Greater Manchester
Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen, and Blackpool
Cheshire
Warrington
South West
South Gloucestershire
Bristol
North Somerset
Gloucestershire (moving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
Somerset (moving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
Swindon (moving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
South East (all moving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
Isle of Wight
New Forest
West Midlands (all moving to Tier 4 on 31 December)
Birmingham, Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton
Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent
Warwickshire,
Coventry
Solihull
Yorkshire and The Humber


thedailymirror--2020-12-17--Bank of England holds fire on negative interest rates - at least for now

The Bank of England has left interest rates unchanged at 0.1 % amid warnings they could tumble into minus territory early next year .
The Bank said rates will stay the same - but warned that it was `` ready to take whatever additional action is necessary '' in the future .
The decision comes after inflation dropped further from the Bank 's target to just 0.3 % earlier this week , and the hopes of a trade deal with the EU hand by a thread .
`` The outlook for the economy remains unusually uncertain , '' the Bank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evolution of the pandemic and measures taken to protect public health , as well as the nature of , and transition to , the new trading arrangements between the European Union and the United Kingdom .
`` It will also depend on the responses of households , businesses and financial markets to these developments . ''
The Bank is responsible for doing what it can to keep inflation as close to its target rate as possible as well as the economy growing .
Traditionally , a fall in inflation would see the Bank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an effort to get people spending again and boost the economy .
But with rates already at their lowest ever level of just 0.1 % and the economy headed for what looks like the worst recession for 300 years , that means if things get worse the only option might be to go negative .
`` If the outlook for inflation weakens , the Committee stands ready to take whatever additional action is necessary to achieve its remit , '' the Bank said .
The Bank of England has already also told high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would cope if interest rates were cut to zero or even turned negative .
Deputy governor Sam Woods wrote to financial institutions across the UK saying they must be ready for such a move .
And while unprecedented in the UK , negative rates are n't unknown abroad .
Laith Khalaf , financial analyst at AJ Bell , said : `` The Danish National Bank cut rates to below zero in 2012 , as did the ECB in 2014 , the Swedish Riksbank and the Swiss National Bank in 2015 and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Khalaf said that UK savers would be unlikely to be charged for simply holding money in their accounts .
`` Experience of negative rates in other countries suggests that even if rates turn negative , most banks wouldn ’ t charge high street customers to hold money in their accounts , mainly because you can always take cash out of the bank and stuff it in a mattress , '' he said .
`` Those with higher balances would be most at risk because a bank account provides security that is hard to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPC member David Miles - now professor of financial economics at Imperial College Business School - joined those not in favour of negative rates , saying he was `` sceptical '' they would be effective in the UK .
`` The message that 's coming back very strongly from financial institutions and banks is , 'this is messy , difficult and will make life hard for us ' , '' he said .
`` There 's mixed evidence inside the Bank of England about how effective negative rates would be , so on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority on the committee to vote for it , at least not now , '' he added .

The Bank said it's ready to do whatever is needed to keep the economy on track - and that could mean negative interest rates are brought in as soon as February next year if things don't improve
Bank of England holds fire on negative interest rates - at least for now
The Bank of England has left interest rates unchanged at 0.1% amid warnings they could tumble into minus territory early next year.
The Bank said rates will stay the same - but warned that it was "ready to take whatever additional action is necessary" in the future.
The decision comes after inflation dropped further from the Bank's target to just 0.3% earlier this week, and the hopes of a trade deal with the EU hand by a thread.
"The outlook for the economy remains unusually uncertain," the Bank said.
"It depends on the evolution of the pandemic and measures taken to protect public health, as well as the nature of, and transition to, the new trading arrangements between the European Union and the United Kingdom.
"It will also depend on the responses of households, businesses and financial markets to these developments."
Image: Getty Images/Image Source) Getty Images/Image Source)
The Bank is responsible for doing what it can to keep inflation as close to its target rate as possible as well as the economy growing.
Traditionally, a fall in inflation would see the Bank's Monetary Policy Committee cut rates in an effort to get people spending again and boost the economy.
But with rates already at their lowest ever level of just 0.1% and the economy headed for what looks like the worst recession for 300 years, that means if things get worse the only option might be to go negative.
"If the outlook for inflation weakens, the Committee stands ready to take whatever additional action is necessary to achieve its remit," the Bank said.
Image: E+ / Rita Young) E+ / Rita Young)
The Bank of England has already also told high street lenders to provide details on how they would cope if interest rates were cut to zero or even turned negative.
Deputy governor Sam Woods wrote to financial institutions across the UK saying they must be ready for such a move.
And while unprecedented in the UK, negative rates aren't unknown abroad.
Laith Khalaf, financial analyst at AJ Bell, said: "The Danish National Bank cut rates to below zero in 2012, as did the ECB in 2014, the Swedish Riksbank and the Swiss National Bank in 2015 and the Bank of Japan in 2016.”
But Khalaf said that UK savers would be unlikely to be charged for simply holding money in their accounts.
"Experience of negative rates in other countries suggests that even if rates turn negative, most banks wouldn’t charge high street customers to hold money in their accounts, mainly because you can always take cash out of the bank and stuff it in a mattress," he said.
"Those with higher balances would be most at risk because a bank account provides security that is hard to replicate without financial cost."
Former MPC member David Miles - now professor of financial economics at Imperial College Business School - joined those not in favour of negative rates, saying he was "sceptical" they would be effective in the UK.
"The message that's coming back very strongly from financial institutions and banks is, 'this is messy, difficult and will make life hard for us'," he said.
"There's mixed evidence inside the Bank of England about how effective negative rates would be, so on balance you probably couldn't get a majority on the committee to vote for it, at least not now," he added.


thedailymirror--2020-12-18--Renee Zellweger says she has 'a lot of Bridget Jones's worst traits in me'

Renee Zellweger has spoken out about how her life has resembled the Bridget Jones character she has played on the big screen .
It has been nearly 20 years since Helen Fielding 's fictional unlucky in love and life character was first portrayed on film by the now 51-year-old Hollywood actress .
Renee has now said that her life has followed a similar pattern to Bridget 's with the character 's worst flaws and situations being played out in real-life for Renee .
Speaking in a new TV show that is celebrating the character , Renee has said that she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ screen but a bit perturbed about her similarities to the character 's life .
Renee has suffered heartbreaking relationship break ups including a marriage that lasted just five months when she tied the knot with country singer Kenny Chesney in 2005 .
Renee said : “ All the things that you would most like not to have in common with Bridget are the things that I find I relate to most closely .
“ I ’ ve had moments when I feel like I ’ m sitting beside myself watching my Bridget alter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Bridget Jones 's Diary was released as a novel in 1996 and the best-selling book was adapted for a movie in 2001 , with Renee taking on the hopeless romantic .
BBC2 are marking 25 years since the character first appeared in a newspaper column written by Helen Fielding , with a documentary titled Being Bridget Jones .
The programme , which airs next week , will look at what inspired the character and how Helen 's experiences of being raised in Leeds before heading to Oxford University helped .
The now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her twenties in party mode before finding she was living the life of a `` singleton '' through her thirties .
Helen finally found her love in life when she met Kevin Curran in 2000 , the year Bridget Jones 's Diary was being adapted into a film .
He was a writer and executive producer on TV ’ s The Simpsons , and they had two children , son Dash in 2004 and daughter Romy in 2006 .
In the documentary , Renee says she has sympathy with women who feel they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel a certain way before finding a man and starting a family .
Renee said : “ Ridiculous things , like how much we weigh or what we look like in a dress or our hair or whether or not we ’ ve achieved this list of things that others value by the time we ’ re 30 or 40 or 50 .
“ She struggles with it and she tries and she fails , like all of us .
What it boils down to in the end is self acceptance .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being imperfect is what you ’ re supposed to be.
” Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033 .

Renee Zellweger has spoken about the character she has portrayed on screen ahead of a 20 years celebration of the Bridget Jones in new TV documentary
Renee Zellweger says she has 'a lot of Bridget Jones's worst traits in me'
Renee Zellweger has spoken out about how her life has resembled the Bridget Jones character she has played on the big screen.
It has been nearly 20 years since Helen Fielding's fictional unlucky in love and life character was first portrayed on film by the now 51-year-old Hollywood actress.
Renee has now said that her life has followed a similar pattern to Bridget's with the character's worst flaws and situations being played out in real-life for Renee.
Speaking in a new TV show that is celebrating the character, Renee has said that she feels lucky to have portrayed Bridget on screen but a bit perturbed about her similarities to the character's life.
Renee has suffered heartbreaking relationship break ups including a marriage that lasted just five months when she tied the knot with country singer Kenny Chesney in 2005.
Image: WENN) WENN)
Renee said: “All the things that you would most like not to have in common with Bridget are the things that I find I relate to most closely.
“I’ve had moments when I feel like I’m sitting beside myself watching my Bridget alter ego just spiralling, circling the drain.”
Bridget Jones's Diary was released as a novel in 1996 and the best-selling book was adapted for a movie in 2001, with Renee taking on the hopeless romantic.
BBC2 are marking 25 years since the character first appeared in a newspaper column written by Helen Fielding, with a documentary titled Being Bridget Jones.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
The programme, which airs next week, will look at what inspired the character and how Helen's experiences of being raised in Leeds before heading to Oxford University helped.
The now 62-year-old author admits she spent much of her twenties in party mode before finding she was living the life of a "singleton" through her thirties.
Helen finally found her love in life when she met Kevin Curran in 2000, the year Bridget Jones's Diary was being adapted into a film.
He was a writer and executive producer on TV’s The Simpsons, and they had two children, son Dash in 2004 and daughter Romy in 2006.
Tragically, Kevin died from cancer in 2016, aged 59.
In the documentary, Renee says she has sympathy with women who feel they have the pressure to combine look and feel a certain way before finding a man and starting a family.
Renee said: “Ridiculous things, like how much we weigh or what we look like in a dress or our hair or whether or not we’ve achieved this list of things that others value by the time we’re 30 or 40 or 50.
“She struggles with it and she tries and she fails, like all of us. What it boils down to in the end is self acceptance.
“I think it’s appreciating that being imperfect is what you’re supposed to be.”
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.