thedailymirror--2020-03-23--PC Andrew Harper murder trial jury discharged after jurors enter self-isolation

The jury in the Old Bailey trial of three teenagers for the murder of PC Andrew Harper has been discharged due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Henry Long , 18 , and two 17-year-old boys were accused of killing PC Harper in August last year .
The 28-year-old Thames Valley officer became entangled in a tow rope as he tried to apprehend quad bike thieves , jurors were told .
The officer was probably knocked unconscious as he fell , then dragged more than a mile along country lanes behind a Seat Toledo car driven by Long , the court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ save him but he suffered catastrophic injuries and died at the scene near Sulhamstead , in Berkshire .
Long , of Mortimer , Reading , admitted manslaughter and conspiracy to steal a quad bike but denied murder .
The two youths , who can not be named for legal reasons , admitted conspiracy to steal but denied murder and manslaughter .
PC Harper 's widow Lissie and other family members attended the trial which opened on March 10 .
Over two weeks , the jury viewed dash-cam footage and heard a string of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he at first mistook PC Harper 's body for a deer .
Last week , the jury dropped from 12 men and women to 10 due to jurors going into self-isolation .
On Monday , Mr Justice Edis made a statement in court that the remaining jurors were discharged and the trial adjourned .
He said he had made the decision with a `` heavy heart '' after a third juror went into isolation over the weekend .
He said : `` It is with great regret that I have decided to discharge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I have taken this decision with a heavy heart because I am acutely conscious of the need of those who loved Police Constable Harper , who would have been 29 yesterday , for this process to come to a conclusion . ''
The judge set a review hearing on June 1 to set a date for the trial to start again .
The defendants remain custody until the fresh trial on a date to be fixed .
The trial had been one of eight at the Old Bailey to continue last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a dozen high-profile Old Bailey trials had already been postponed following measures to delay the spread of Covid-19 .

Three jurors went into self-isolation due to the coronavirus pandemic, forcing Mr Justice Edis to adjourn the murder trial at the Old Baily this morning
The jury in the Old Bailey trial of three teenagers for the murder of PC Andrew Harper has been discharged due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Henry Long, 18, and two 17-year-old boys were accused of killing PC Harper in August last year.
The 28-year-old Thames Valley officer became entangled in a tow rope as he tried to apprehend quad bike thieves, jurors were told.
The officer was probably knocked unconscious as he fell, then dragged more than a mile along country lanes behind a Seat Toledo car driven by Long, the court was told.
Image: PA Archive/PA Images) PA Archive/PA Images)
Colleagues desperately tried to save him but he suffered catastrophic injuries and died at the scene near Sulhamstead, in Berkshire.
Long, of Mortimer, Reading, admitted manslaughter and conspiracy to steal a quad bike but denied murder.
The two youths, who cannot be named for legal reasons, admitted conspiracy to steal but denied murder and manslaughter.
PC Harper's widow Lissie and other family members attended the trial which opened on March 10.
Over two weeks, the jury viewed dash-cam footage and heard a string of eyewitness accounts, with one describing how he at first mistook PC Harper's body for a deer.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Last week, the jury dropped from 12 men and women to 10 due to jurors going into self-isolation.
On Monday, Mr Justice Edis made a statement in court that the remaining jurors were discharged and the trial adjourned.
He said he had made the decision with a "heavy heart" after a third juror went into isolation over the weekend.
He said: "It is with great regret that I have decided to discharge the jury and to adjourn this trial.
"I have taken this decision with a heavy heart because I am acutely conscious of the need of those who loved Police Constable Harper, who would have been 29 yesterday, for this process to come to a conclusion."
The judge set a review hearing on June 1 to set a date for the trial to start again.
The defendants remain custody until the fresh trial on a date to be fixed.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: "Today, the Judge in the trial has taken the decision to adjourn the trial due to the ongoing situation with COVID-19 and its effect on the jury.
"As a result of this decision, the case will now be subject to a retrial. A date for this has not yet been set and we will update on this as soon as we are able to do so.
"Clearly this is disappointing and will be a very difficult decision for PC Harper’s family to hear. However, Thames Valley Police fully accepts and supports the judge’s decision and recognises the gravity of the ongoing national situation."
The trial had been one of eight at the Old Bailey to continue last week despite the pandemic.
More than a dozen high-profile Old Bailey trials had already been postponed following measures to delay the spread of Covid-19.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Liverpool star Alexander-Arnold makes surprise Barcelona admission

Liverpool 's Trent Alexander-Arnold may have had a large hand in inflicting a devastating defeat upon Barcelona last season , but he admits he does have a soft spot for the Catalan giants .
Alexander-Arnold was a key player in the Reds ' epic comeback to beat Barca 4-3 on aggregate in last season 's Champions League semi-final .
The full-back created Liverpool 's second goal on the night for Gini Wijnaldum , before his now infamous 'corner taken quickly ' allowed Divock Origi to complete the most remarkable turnaround to book the Reds ' place in the final .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hotspur in Madrid , and the Reds now stand on the verge of adding the Premier League title to their haul when football eventually resumes .
But while he remains Liverpool through and through , Alexander-Arnold admitted he does hold a candle for Barcelona during an interview with GQ magazine .
When the local lad was asked if he had a team other than Liverpool , he said : `` Growing up I was Celtic , but now , because of the [ Steven Gerrard ] connection , I ’ m probably neutral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d say my favourite other team would be Barca .
I feel as though they ’ ve got kind of the same values and beliefs as Liverpool . ''
Any Reds fans concerned that Alexander-Arnold could angle for a move to Catalonia at some point in his career need n't worry though .
When asked by interview Alastair Campbell if he thought he 's stay at Liverpool for his whole career he said yes .
`` It ’ s ( leaving ) not something I ’ ve ever really thought about , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve always loved Liverpool .
I ’ ve always supported them .
I ’ ve always played for them .
So , I ’ ve never had that reason to think about it .
`` Yeah , still now , I wouldn ’ t sit there in my room and daydream about playing somewhere else .
`` Right now , I ’ m a Liverpool player .
I love the club more than anything .
I love everything about it .
I love the fans , the people .
I love the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think about that ? ''

The Reds full-back enjoyed surely his greatest night for the club in last season's epic Champions League semi-final comeback against Barca at Anfield
Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold may have had a large hand in inflicting a devastating defeat upon Barcelona last season, but he admits he does have a soft spot for the Catalan giants.
Alexander-Arnold was a key player in the Reds' epic comeback to beat Barca 4-3 on aggregate in last season's Champions League semi-final.
The full-back created Liverpool's second goal on the night for Gini Wijnaldum, before his now infamous 'corner taken quickly' allowed Divock Origi to complete the most remarkable turnaround to book the Reds' place in the final.
Liverpool won that match 2-0 against Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, and the Reds now stand on the verge of adding the Premier League title to their haul when football eventually resumes.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
But while he remains Liverpool through and through, Alexander-Arnold admitted he does hold a candle for Barcelona during an interview with GQ magazine.
When the local lad was asked if he had a team other than Liverpool, he said: "Growing up I was Celtic, but now, because of the [Steven Gerrard] connection, I’m probably neutral up there now.
"But I’d say my favourite other team would be Barca. I feel as though they’ve got kind of the same values and beliefs as Liverpool."
Image: Youtube) Youtube)
Any Reds fans concerned that Alexander-Arnold could angle for a move to Catalonia at some point in his career needn't worry though.
When asked by interview Alastair Campbell if he thought he's stay at Liverpool for his whole career he said yes.
"It’s (leaving) not something I’ve ever really thought about," he added.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
"I’ve always loved Liverpool. I’ve always supported them. I’ve always played for them. So, I’ve never had that reason to think about it.
"Yeah, still now, I wouldn’t sit there in my room and daydream about playing somewhere else.
"Right now, I’m a Liverpool player. I love the club more than anything. I love everything about it. I love the fans, the people. I love the city. So, no, why would I think about that?"


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Paramedics help man collapsed at bus stop as Italy's coronavirus deaths soar

Italian paramedics have been pictured rushing to the side of a man collapsed at a bus stop as the country 's coronavirus death toll rises again .
The medics came to the man 's aid after he collapsed in the streets of Rome last night .
Paramedics could be seen rushing to attend to the man , who was wearing a face mask and appeared to be unconscious , before loading him on a stretcher into an ambulance and taking him away .
It is not known whether the man had been struck by the vast Covid-19 outbreak in Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every two minutes as its death toll hits 5,476 .
Another 651 people died from the virus in Italy on Sunday alone , bringing the weekend death toll alone to a devastating 1,444 .
Italy has become a Covid-19 world epicentre , after it surpassed China 's death toll .
Italy was one of the first country 's in Europe to impose a full , dramatic lockdown as citizens are ordered indoors while authorities rush to contain the outbreak .
What are the symptoms of coronavirus ?
The most common symptoms of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms , you should immediately self-isolate yourself for seven days .
It is not necessary to call NHS 111 unless your symptoms get more severe .
Some patients have reported fatigue , headaches , shortness of breath and aches and pains .
Sneezing is not a symptom of the coronavirus .
Official figures showed 793 people lost their lives to Covid-19 in Italy on Saturday - equating to an average of 33 deaths per hour .
This marked the biggest increase in fatalities yet over a single 24-hour period , as Italy 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus originated in the city of Wuhan .
It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned that Britain is only “ two or three ” weeks behind Italy on the spread of Covid-19 .
He has told Brits that a full lockdown like Italy 's could be just hours away if the public does not follow social distancing guidelines .
The PM issued the stark warning to the UK yesterday after crowds flocked to the country 's beaches , parks and holiday beautyspots amid the weekend 's sunny weather and Mother 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the daily Downing Street press conference yesterday that if Brits can not follow health experts ' advice to stay home , and two metres away from one another when in public , stricter measures will be considered `` within the next 24 hours . ''

Italy is recording one Covid-19 death every two minutes as its death toll hits 5,476 - with 1,444 losing their lives over the weekend alone
Coronavirus: Italian paramedics rush to help man collapsed at bus stop as death toll soars
Italian paramedics have been pictured rushing to the side of a man collapsed at a bus stop as the country's coronavirus death toll rises again.
The medics came to the man's aid after he collapsed in the streets of Rome last night.
Paramedics could be seen rushing to attend to the man, who was wearing a face mask and appeared to be unconscious, before loading him on a stretcher into an ambulance and taking him away.
It is not known whether the man had been struck by the vast Covid-19 outbreak in Italy.
The country is recording one death every two minutes as its death toll hits 5,476.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images) Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Another 651 people died from the virus in Italy on Sunday alone, bringing the weekend death toll alone to a devastating 1,444.
Italy has become a Covid-19 world epicentre, after it surpassed China's death toll.
Italy was one of the first country's in Europe to impose a full, dramatic lockdown as citizens are ordered indoors while authorities rush to contain the outbreak.
What are the symptoms of coronavirus? The most common symptoms of the coronavirus are: a dry, persistent cough
a fever If you experience these symptoms, you should immediately self-isolate yourself for seven days. It is not necessary to call NHS 111 unless your symptoms get more severe. Some patients have reported fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath and aches and pains. Sneezing is not a symptom of the coronavirus.
Official figures showed 793 people lost their lives to Covid-19 in Italy on Saturday - equating to an average of 33 deaths per hour.
This marked the biggest increase in fatalities yet over a single 24-hour period, as Italy's death toll races past China, where the virus originated in the city of Wuhan.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned that Britain is only “two or three” weeks behind Italy on the spread of Covid-19.
He has told Brits that a full lockdown like Italy's could be just hours away if the public does not follow social distancing guidelines.
The PM issued the stark warning to the UK yesterday after crowds flocked to the country's beaches, parks and holiday beautyspots amid the weekend's sunny weather and Mother's Day on Sunday.
Mr Johnson warned in the daily Downing Street press conference yesterday that if Brits can not follow health experts' advice to stay home, and two metres away from one another when in public, stricter measures will be considered "within the next 24 hours."


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Police shut down large wedding and send everyone home due to coronavirus fears

Police officers shut down a wedding with more than 100 guests and sent everyone home to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
The bride and groom 's ceremony and celebration went ahead at a hotel even though the Government had told Britons to stay home and not to gather in large numbers .
The party came to an abrupt end after officers were called to the Bank of Fleet Hotel in Gatehouse of Fleet , Scotland , the Daily Record reported .
Police explained the latest social distancing guidelines and the newlyweds decided agreed to halt the event and send @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wedding ?
Do you know the bride and groom ?
Email webnews @ mirror.co.uk .
A police spokesman said : “ Police visited a number of licensed premises on Saturday following Government guidelines for them to close .
“ One of the premises in Gatehouse of Fleet had a wedding ongoing .
“ Officers advised of the guidelines and the family took the decision to stop the event and send the guests home.
” News of the police visit spread on social media , where locals angrily criticised the newlyweds and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead with so many guests .
One woman wrote : “ They are not only putting their staff at risk and the wedding party at risk , they are putting the whole community , the whole county at risk .
Why ?
“ I ’ m sure everyone involved did not mean any harm .
`` They just didn ’ t think through the potential risks involved.
” Chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood said : “ It ’ s very difficult to talk to people about not socialising , about not having wedding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these events may actually have the opportunity to pass the virus to many , many others.
” Mirror Online has attempted to contact the hotel for comment .
Last week , the Church of England announced it was limiting weddings to just five people - the couple getting married , a minister and two witnesses .
Amid a coronavirus shutdown in the UK , many couples have postponed their weddings .
In Hull , a couple forced to cancel their wedding at the last minute donated their food to a charity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to staff at an NHS hospital .
Mum-of-two Steph Carr , 31 , has been dubbed the `` unluckiest '' bride after her honeymoon was cancelled when Thomas Cook collapsed , her hen do was ruined by a stripper breaking his leg and her wedding was scrapped due to coronavirus .
She said : `` It has been absolutely devastating - you start to feel like your wedding is cursed , like how could so many things go wrong ? ''

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Jackie Grant, Chris Kitching)

Dr Hilary Jones explains 3 things you need to do if you have coronavirus
Dr Hilary Jones explains 3 things you need to do if you have coronavirus
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The bride and groom's wedding went ahead at a hotel even though Britons were urged to stay home during the coronavirus pandemic, but it came to an abrupt end when police arrived
Coronavirus: Police shut down wedding with 100 guests and send everyone home
Police officers shut down a wedding with more than 100 guests and sent everyone home to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The bride and groom's ceremony and celebration went ahead at a hotel even though the Government had told Britons to stay home and not to gather in large numbers.
The party came to an abrupt end after officers were called to the Bank of Fleet Hotel in Gatehouse of Fleet, Scotland, the Daily Record reported.
Police explained the latest social distancing guidelines and the newlyweds decided agreed to halt the event and send their guests home.
Were you at the wedding? Do you know the bride and groom? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk.
Image: Daily Record) Daily Record)
A police spokesman said: “Police visited a number of licensed premises on Saturday following Government guidelines for them to close.
“One of the premises in Gatehouse of Fleet had a wedding ongoing.
“Officers advised of the guidelines and the family took the decision to stop the event and send the guests home.”
News of the police visit spread on social media, where locals angrily criticised the newlyweds and the hotel for allowing the wedding to go ahead with so many guests.
One woman wrote: “They are not only putting their staff at risk and the wedding party at risk, they are putting the whole community, the whole county at risk. Why?
“I’m sure everyone involved did not mean any harm.
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"They just didn’t think through the potential risks involved.”
Chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood said: “It’s very difficult to talk to people about not socialising, about not having wedding receptions.
“One person at one of these events may actually have the opportunity to pass the virus to many, many others.”
Mirror Online has attempted to contact the hotel for comment.
Last week, the Church of England announced it was limiting weddings to just five people - the couple getting married, a minister and two witnesses.
Amid a coronavirus shutdown in the UK, many couples have postponed their weddings.
In Hull, a couple forced to cancel their wedding at the last minute donated their food to a charity, which handed out 250 hog roast sandwiches to staff at an NHS hospital.
Mum-of-two Steph Carr, 31, has been dubbed the "unluckiest" bride after her honeymoon was cancelled when Thomas Cook collapsed, her hen do was ruined by a stripper breaking his leg and her wedding was scrapped due to coronavirus.
She said: "It has been absolutely devastating - you start to feel like your wedding is cursed, like how could so many things go wrong?"


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Healthy marathon runner, 28, says coronavirus felt like 'being in a car crash'

A healthy marathon runner has described having coronavirus as `` being like in a car crash '' and said that he `` could n't move '' .
Mark Stubbs , 28 , appeared on Good Morning Britain via video link as he revealed that , despite having strong lungs , he was left coughing up blood and was hospitalised in ICU for 13 days .
Speaking to hosts Piers Morgan and Lorraine Kelly , he said : My fever was up to 40 degrees and slightly higher , which was highly uncomfortable ... it 's not an exaggeration to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a car crash . ''
He continued : `` In three days I was unable to breathe , lungs taken over , coughing up blood . ''
Mark continued to say that people do n't realise that you can be really healthy and still get coronavirus .
`` You may survive and get through it but that old person who does n't get that ventilator wo n't , '' he warned .
He said that he was now recovering but was still breathless , sleeping a lot and conceded that his liver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ battering '' .
Dr Hilary also addressed his comments , admitting that what Mark had said was `` extremely worrying '' .
`` You 're a marathon runner [ and have ] strong lungs ... but you could n't breathe on your own , '' he said .
`` What you 're telling the nation is so important for those idiots who were going out in mass gatherings . ''
This comes after Piers demanded the man that filmed himself licking supermarket shelves a products is refused health care if he contracts coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 54 , seethed with rage on the ITV programme after the clip of the American was shown .
The man is seen leaning over towards the supermarket shelves and running his tongue along the procts .
He fumed : `` You know what I 'd like to happen to him ?
I 'd like him found , and I 'm sure they 'll get him , put in prison immediately and then I 'd like him deprived of any health care should he then get the virus having deliberately try to give it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people .
`` That might concentrate the minds of these morons .
And it might concentrate the minds of these morons here too . ''
Earlier on , Piers shared a chilling image on his Instagram to warn that family relatives will die amid the coronavirus pandemic as he unleashed his fury at some of the public 's `` idiocy '' for treating yesterday like a public holiday .
Shocking pictures at the weekend showed hoards of people collecting at parks and beaches despite the social distancing warnings .
Piers also hit out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supermarkets , potentially spreading COVID-19 , branding them morons .
He raged : `` The utter crass stupidity of people , the ignorance . ''
Piers also shared a picture on his Instagram of two people separated by a dead body lying on the floor .
The stark image warned : `` Confused about how far to distance yourself ?
Imagine the outline of a dead relative between you . ''
He captioned it : `` Memo to all morons ... '' Fans flocked to the comments , with one remarking : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facebook saying its only a flu , they show statistics of how people die each year from other diseases . ''
While another commented : `` So well put .
Living in Germany in our supermarket there is a plastic shield to protect the assistants and tape marking on the floor to distance shoppers . ''
A third remarked : `` I 've been self isolated for 2 weeks tomorrow now thanks to my family and friends as help me through , this notice should be put up as add in popular tv @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Another wrote : `` Please listen to Piers !
!
!
he 's not always right NO !
!
!
but believe me the guy is damn Right just now ... .
Harsh yes needs to be said ... . ''

Healthy marathon runner, 28, says virus felt like 'being in a car crash' and he 'couldn't move'
Healthy marathon runner, 28, says virus felt like 'being in a car crash' and he 'couldn't move'
Mark Stubbs, 28, appeared on Good Morning Britain via video link as he revealed that, despite having strong lungs, he was left coughing up blood and was hospitalised in ICU for 13 days
A healthy marathon runner has described having coronavirus as "being like in a car crash" and said that he "couldn't move".
Mark Stubbs, 28, appeared on Good Morning Britain via video link as he revealed that, despite having strong lungs, he was left coughing up blood and was hospitalised in ICU for 13 days.
Speaking to hosts Piers Morgan and Lorraine Kelly, he said: My fever was up to 40 degrees and slightly higher, which was highly uncomfortable... it's not an exaggeration to say that [it's like being] in a car crash."
He continued: "In three days I was unable to breathe, lungs taken over, coughing up blood."
Mark continued to say that people don't realise that you can be really healthy and still get coronavirus.
Image: ITV) ITV) Image: Shutterstock) Shutterstock)
"You may survive and get through it but that old person who doesn't get that ventilator won't," he warned.
He said that he was now recovering but was still breathless, sleeping a lot and conceded that his liver had "taken a bit of a battering".
Dr Hilary also addressed his comments, admitting that what Mark had said was "extremely worrying".
"You're a marathon runner [and have] strong lungs... but you couldn't breathe on your own," he said. "What you're telling the nation is so important for those idiots who were going out in mass gatherings."
Image: ITV) ITV)
This comes after Piers demanded the man that filmed himself licking supermarket shelves a products is refused health care if he contracts coronavirus.
Good Morning Britain presenter Piers, 54, seethed with rage on the ITV programme after the clip of the American was shown.
The man is seen leaning over towards the supermarket shelves and running his tongue along the procts.
He fumed: "You know what I'd like to happen to him? I'd like him found, and I'm sure they'll get him, put in prison immediately and then I'd like him deprived of any health care should he then get the virus having deliberately try to give it, potentially, to lots of other people.
Image: ITV) ITV) Image: ITV) ITV)
"That might concentrate the minds of these morons. And it might concentrate the minds of these morons here too."
Earlier on, Piers shared a chilling image on his Instagram to warn that family relatives will die amid the coronavirus pandemic as he unleashed his fury at some of the public's "idiocy" for treating yesterday like a public holiday.
Shocking pictures at the weekend showed hoards of people collecting at parks and beaches despite the social distancing warnings.
Piers also hit out at those bunched up in lines for supermarkets, potentially spreading COVID-19, branding them morons.
Image: ITV) ITV) Image: ITV) ITV)
He raged: "The utter crass stupidity of people, the ignorance."
Piers also shared a picture on his Instagram of two people separated by a dead body lying on the floor.
The stark image warned: "Confused about how far to distance yourself? Imagine the outline of a dead relative between you."
Image: ITV) ITV)
He captioned it: "Memo to all morons..."
Fans flocked to the comments, with one remarking: "The problem is all these fools on facebook saying its only a flu, they show statistics of how people die each year from other diseases."
Image: ITV) ITV)
While another commented: "So well put. Living in Germany in our supermarket there is a plastic shield to protect the assistants and tape marking on the floor to distance shoppers."
A third remarked: "I've been self isolated for 2 weeks tomorrow now thanks to my family and friends as help me through, this notice should be put up as add in popular tv shows and a cross social media."
Another wrote: "Please listen to Piers!!! he's not always right NO!!! but believe me the guy is damn Right just now.... Harsh yes needs to be said...."
*Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--How the coronavirus can take over your body before you even feel it

This week , coronavirus cases in the UK have surpassed 5,700 , leading to widespread panic about the spread of the virus .
Unsurprisingly , reports of the 282 coronavirus-related deaths have dominated the headlines , but if you catch the virus you may not even know you have it .
For most people the COVID-19 disease is very mild , with symptoms such as a sore throat and headache making it almost indistinguishable from a common cold .
But how does the virus actually attack the body , and why do people react so differently after being infected ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ ve broken down the key stages of a coronavirus infection .
Here 's a breakdown of how the virus attacks , from the initial infection all the way through to recovery .
The virus typically invades your body when you breathe it in , or touch a contaminated surface and then your face .
It first infects the cells lining your throat , airways and lungs , turning them into ‘ coronavirus factories ’ that churn out huge numbers of new viruses that go on to infect more cells .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with many people not developing any symptoms or even realising they ’ ve been infected .
For around 80 % of coronavirus patients , the disease will be mild , with symptoms including a fever , cough , headache and body aches .
These symptoms are the result of your immune system responding to the infection .
Your immune system recognises the virus as a foreign invader and signals to the rest of the body that something is wrong by releasing chemicals called cytokines .
These cytokines rally the immune system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the fever and cough .
For most people , this stage usually lasts about a week , at which point the immune system has fought off the virus and symptoms will ease off .
Unfortunately , around 20 % of people will develop more serious side effects , due to their immune system overreacting to the virus .
Speaking to the BBC , Dr Nathalie MacDermott , from King ’ s College London explained : “ The virus is triggering an imbalance in the immune response , there 's too much inflammation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't know.
” If the immune system continues to overreact , it can lead to pneumonia , during which the sacs in the lungs start to fill with water , leading to shortness of breath and difficulty breathing .
Some people will need a ventilator to help them breathe at this point .
Around 6 % of cases are expected to be critical , with a real chance of death .
This is due to the immune system spiralling out of control and causing damage throughout the body .
At this point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acute respiratory distress due to inflammation of the lungs , and even loss of kidney function .
Dr Bharat Pankhania explained : “ The virus sets up such a huge degree of inflammation that you succumb ... it becomes multi-organ failure.
” If the immune system can ’ t settle down , the damage can reach fatal levels at which organs can no longer keep the body alive .

What is coronavirus testing is like?
What is coronavirus testing is like?
To help understand the coronavirus outbreak, we've broken down the virus’ effect on the body, from the initial infection through to recovery
Coronavirus: How the virus can take over your body before you even feel it
This week, coronavirus cases in the UK have surpassed 5,700, leading to widespread panic about the spread of the virus.
Unsurprisingly, reports of the 282 coronavirus-related deaths have dominated the headlines, but if you catch the virus you may not even know you have it.
For most people the COVID-19 disease is very mild, with symptoms such as a sore throat and headache making it almost indistinguishable from a common cold.
But how does the virus actually attack the body, and why do people react so differently after being infected?
To help answer these burning questions, we’ve broken down the key stages of a coronavirus infection.
Here's a breakdown of how the virus attacks, from the initial infection all the way through to recovery.
Incubation period
The virus typically invades your body when you breathe it in, or touch a contaminated surface and then your face.
It first infects the cells lining your throat, airways and lungs, turning them into ‘ coronavirus factories’ that churn out huge numbers of new viruses that go on to infect more cells.
The incubation period typically lasts around five days, with many people not developing any symptoms or even realising they’ve been infected.
Mild disease
For around 80% of coronavirus patients, the disease will be mild, with symptoms including a fever, cough, headache and body aches.
These symptoms are the result of your immune system responding to the infection.
Your immune system recognises the virus as a foreign invader and signals to the rest of the body that something is wrong by releasing chemicals called cytokines.
These cytokines rally the immune system, but also cause the nasty side effects including the fever and cough.
For most people, this stage usually lasts about a week, at which point the immune system has fought off the virus and symptoms will ease off.
Severe disease
Unfortunately, around 20% of people will develop more serious side effects, due to their immune system overreacting to the virus.
Speaking to the BBC, Dr Nathalie MacDermott, from King’s College London explained: “The virus is triggering an imbalance in the immune response, there's too much inflammation, how it is doing this we don't know.”
Image: Getty) Getty)
If the immune system continues to overreact, it can lead to pneumonia, during which the sacs in the lungs start to fill with water, leading to shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
Some people will need a ventilator to help them breathe at this point.
Critical disease
Around 6% of cases are expected to be critical, with a real chance of death.
This is due to the immune system spiralling out of control and causing damage throughout the body.
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At this point, patients may experience septic shock, acute respiratory distress due to inflammation of the lungs, and even loss of kidney function.
Dr Bharat Pankhania explained: “The virus sets up such a huge degree of inflammation that you succumb... it becomes multi-organ failure.”
If the immune system can’t settle down, the damage can reach fatal levels at which organs can no longer keep the body alive.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Trent Alexander-Arnold concedes he 'doesn't think he's a really good footballer'

Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold has clearly not given into the hype and admits he `` does n't think he 's a really good footballer '' .
The academy graduate is convinced there is still more to come despite becoming an integral figure at Anfield .
Alexander-Arnold has reached two Champions League finals , winning one , and will almost certainly be a Premier League winner in the coming months .
His influence from right-back has been hailed by those within the game but the 21-year-old concedes he has a long way to go yet .
He told GQ : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knew that I ’ d be a really good footballer .
I wouldn ’ t think now that I ’ m a really good footballer .
`` I ’ d say I haven ’ t reached full potential at all .
I ’ m not where I need to be and where I can be .
So there ’ s no point putting a label on it , in my mind .
`` I still have a lot of improvement to do .
Growing up , there were always indications of it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just about playing every game .
`` I wanted to win every game .
It was never me thinking , ' I ’ m put on the planet and I have to be a footballer , ' it was more just every day going to train and wanting to win and wanting to be as competitive as possible . ''
Alexander-Arnold played as a midfielder when he was rising through the ranks at Melwood .
He switched to a more defensive role but the distribution he learned has certainly not left him .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been engrossed in a competition over who can provide the most assists for several seasons .
Last term Alexander-Arnold pipped his Scottish team-mate by registered 12 to his 11 .
This season he has really asserted his authority though with 12 assists putting him five ahead of Robertson .

Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold is adamant he is nowhere near reaching his potential and has refuses to label himself as a "really good footballer"
Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold has clearly not given into the hype and admits he "doesn't think he's a really good footballer".
The academy graduate is convinced there is still more to come despite becoming an integral figure at Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold has reached two Champions League finals, winning one, and will almost certainly be a Premier League winner in the coming months.
His influence from right-back has been hailed by those within the game but the 21-year-old concedes he has a long way to go yet.
He told GQ : "I don’t think I ever knew that I’d be a really good footballer. I wouldn’t think now that I’m a really good footballer.
Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images) Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
"I’d say I haven’t reached full potential at all. I’m not where I need to be and where I can be. So there’s no point putting a label on it, in my mind.
"I still have a lot of improvement to do. Growing up, there were always indications of it, but, for me, it was just about playing every game.
"I wanted to win every game. It was never me thinking, 'I’m put on the planet and I have to be a footballer,' it was more just every day going to train and wanting to win and wanting to be as competitive as possible."
Alexander-Arnold played as a midfielder when he was rising through the ranks at Melwood.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
He switched to a more defensive role but the distribution he learned has certainly not left him.
The youngster and fellow fullback Andy Robertson have been engrossed in a competition over who can provide the most assists for several seasons.
Last term Alexander-Arnold pipped his Scottish team-mate by registered 12 to his 11.
This season he has really asserted his authority though with 12 assists putting him five ahead of Robertson.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Takumi Minamino admission after he confirmed he was "struggling" at Liverpool

Takumi Minamino struggles with Trent Alexander-Arnold 's scouse accent - but he 's leaning to speak English at a rate of knots .
That 's according to Alexander-Arnold , who says the Japan international has been working hard to assimilate since signing for the Premier League club in January .
Liverpool signed Minamino from Salzburg in the winter window , parting with just £7.25million - the price of the forward 's release clause .
Minamino has featured a handful of times for Liverpool , but recently admitted he was struggling to come to terms with the cultural differences of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ name the one player at the squad who finds his Liverpudlian accent most difficult to understand , and named Minamino .
But he quickly added that the Japanese star is working hard to learn English , and showing great signs of progress .
`` I 'd probably say Takumi [ struggles most with my accent ] , '' Alexander-Arnold told GQ magazine .
`` He did n't speak a lot of English when he first came , but he is probably the fastest learner I 've ever seen for someone learning a language @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last month and revealed he is determined to win the `` trust '' of his Reds team-mates .
`` In the last three months there have been areas which I 'm quite happy about , '' Minamino said .
`` But personally I would love to contribute more to goals and assists – I 'm feeling very hungry about that .
`` I do n't really know how much I still need to learn .
But day by day , I 'm feeling that I understand his [ Klopp 's ] philosophies and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to show results .
I think this is very important in order to win trust from the teammates and trust from the supporters .
I think this is a very important thing that I have to achieve . ''

Liverpool signed Takumi Minamino from Salzburg in the winter transfer window, and the Japan international has been working hard to learn English and settle in at Anfield
Takumi Minamino admission after he confirmed he was "struggling" at Liverpool
Takumi Minamino struggles with Trent Alexander-Arnold's scouse accent - but he's leaning to speak English at a rate of knots.
That's according to Alexander-Arnold, who says the Japan international has been working hard to assimilate since signing for the Premier League club in January.
Liverpool signed Minamino from Salzburg in the winter window, parting with just £7.25million - the price of the forward's release clause.
Minamino has featured a handful of times for Liverpool, but recently admitted he was struggling to come to terms with the cultural differences of the Premier League.
Alexander-Arnold was asked to name the one player at the squad who finds his Liverpudlian accent most difficult to understand, and named Minamino.
Image: WILL OLIVER/EPA-EFE/REX) WILL OLIVER/EPA-EFE/REX)
But he quickly added that the Japanese star is working hard to learn English, and showing great signs of progress.
"I'd probably say Takumi [struggles most with my accent]," Alexander-Arnold told GQ magazine. "He didn't speak a lot of English when he first came, but he is probably the fastest learner I've ever seen for someone learning a language."
Minamino was interviewed by Liverpool last month and revealed he is determined to win the "trust" of his Reds team-mates.
Image: Action Images via Reuters) Action Images via Reuters)
"In the last three months there have been areas which I'm quite happy about," Minamino said. "But personally I would love to contribute more to goals and assists – I'm feeling very hungry about that.
"I don't really know how much I still need to learn. But day by day, I'm feeling that I understand his [Klopp's] philosophies and I'm getting better.
"I have to show results. I think this is very important in order to win trust from the teammates and trust from the supporters. I think this is a very important thing that I have to achieve."


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Laura Ashley announces permanent closure of 70 stores and 721 job losses

Laura Ashley has announced the permanent closure of 70 stores , with 721 employees set to lose their jobs .
It comes after the fashion and furnishings retailer warned it could collapse earlier this month , blaming the impact of coronavirus for tipping it over the edge .
It said it will continue to trade online and from its remaining 77 UK stores for the time being , however has warned it needs £15million of emergency cash by the end of this month to avoid putting around 3,000 jobs at risk .
The company expects to enter administration later on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oversee the process .
Katherine Poulter , chief executive officer of the business , said she is `` hopeful '' that it will find a buyer for the brand .
She added : `` Since my appointment just last month , I have shared my vision for the future of this brand , accompanied with a robust turnaround plan to set the future direction of the company and return Laura Ashley to the great British brand that is known and cherished around the world .
`` The vision also included reconnecting with our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and focusing on developing Laura Ashley as a lifestyle brand .
`` I remain unwavering in my belief that Laura Ashley can and should retain the place it deserves in the international retail landscape .
Unfortunately , we will lose some brilliant people through no fault of their own . ''
Have you been affected by this news ?
Get in touch : webnews @ mirror.co.uk Laura Ashley 's losses before tax ballooned by 166 % to £4million at the end of 2019 , due to lower home furnishings sales and Brexit uncertainty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % to £109.6 million , compared to the same period in 2018 .
The retailer , founded in 1953 and a favourite of Diana , Princess of Wales , said disruption caused by the change in its Japanese franchise partner to Itochu Corporation also had an impact .
The company , which was valued at more than £200million when it floated during the 1980s , is now valued by the stock market at just £10million .
Its shares have slumped by more than 60 % in the past 12 months .
Its first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South Kensington , in 1968 , with additional shops opened in Shrewsbury and Bath in 1970 .
Today 's news will spark more questions about the future of the high street , as dozens of retailers , airlines and businesses struggle at the hands of the coronavirus crisis .
We 've got a full guide on your coronavirus rights - including school closures , sick pay , working from home and holiday or event cancellations , here .

The news will spark more questions about the future of the high street, as dozens of retailers, airlines and businesses struggle at the hands of the coronavirus crisis
Laura Ashley has announced the permanent closure of 70 stores, with 721 employees set to lose their jobs.
It comes after the fashion and furnishings retailer warned it could collapse earlier this month, blaming the impact of coronavirus for tipping it over the edge.
It said it will continue to trade online and from its remaining 77 UK stores for the time being, however has warned it needs £15million of emergency cash by the end of this month to avoid putting around 3,000 jobs at risk.
The company expects to enter administration later on Monday after appointing advisers from PwC to oversee the process.
Katherine Poulter, chief executive officer of the business, said she is "hopeful" that it will find a buyer for the brand.
She added: "Since my appointment just last month, I have shared my vision for the future of this brand, accompanied with a robust turnaround plan to set the future direction of the company and return Laura Ashley to the great British brand that is known and cherished around the world.
"The vision also included reconnecting with our traditional values and our strong British heritage and focusing on developing Laura Ashley as a lifestyle brand.
"I remain unwavering in my belief that Laura Ashley can and should retain the place it deserves in the international retail landscape. Unfortunately, we will lose some brilliant people through no fault of their own."
Have you been affected by this news? Get in touch: webnews@mirror.co.uk
Image: Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Laura Ashley's losses before tax ballooned by 166% to £4million at the end of 2019, due to lower home furnishings sales and Brexit uncertainty.
Total group sales fell by 10.8% to £109.6 million, compared to the same period in 2018.
The retailer, founded in 1953 and a favourite of Diana, Princess of Wales, said disruption caused by the change in its Japanese franchise partner to Itochu Corporation also had an impact.
The company, which was valued at more than £200million when it floated during the 1980s, is now valued by the stock market at just £10million.
Its shares have slumped by more than 60% in the past 12 months.
Its first store was opened in Pelham Street, South Kensington, in 1968, with additional shops opened in Shrewsbury and Bath in 1970.
Today's news will spark more questions about the future of the high street, as dozens of retailers, airlines and businesses struggle at the hands of the coronavirus crisis.
We've got a full guide on your coronavirus rights - including school closures, sick pay, working from home and holiday or event cancellations, here.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--How to get a free food parcel if you're a vulnerable person self-isolating

As part of the government 's latest plan to tackle the coronavirus crisis , 1.5 million vulnerable people have been asked to self-isolate for 12 weeks .
They will be sent letters or text messages urging them to stay at home to protect themselves from the highly infectious virus .
As the people most at-risk from coronavirus , those in the vulnerable groups should n't even leave their house to go to the supermarket .
The government plans to implement a food parcel delivery system to ensure that those self-isolating will have the supplies they need to get them through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need to know - including how to know if you 're classed as 'vulnerable ' , and how to get a food parcel .
If you are among the 'vulnerable ' groups , you should receive a letter , a text or an email from the government , urging you to self-isolate .
The high-risk groups for coronavirus are expected to include people ... • Who have received an organ transplant • Who have certain specific cancers • Who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy • Who are having any treatment for blood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leukaemia ) • Who are having any cancer treatment that weakens the immune system ( such as protein kinase inhibitors ) • Who have received a bone marrow or stem cell transplant in the last six months , or are still taking immunosuppression drugs • Who have severe respiratory conditions including all cystic fibrosis , severe asthma and severe COPD • Who have rare diseases and inborn errors of metabolism that significantly increase the risk of infections ( such as SCID , homozygous sickle cell ) • None Who are taking immunosuppression therapies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you 're not sure whether you are considered as a vulnerable person , you should contact your GP - by phone .
How can I get a food parcel ?
If you 're considered a vulnerable person , you will receive a letter from the government .
There will be a website and a phone number for you to contact to confirm that you would like the food parcels .
You will be asked if you have any dietary requirements , and also what medication you need .
Local councils will then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deliver food parcels , with all your prescriptions .
The parcels will be left on your doorstep , so you will not need to have physical contact with anybody .
How much do the food parcels cost ?
For now , the food parcels will be free .
This may change in the future .

Boris Johnson has announced new measures to fight the coronavirus, with 1.5 million vulnerable people in the UK advised to completely self-isolate for 12 weeks
Coronavirus: Am I a vulnerable person and can I get a food parcel while self-isolating?
As part of the government's latest plan to tackle the coronavirus crisis, 1.5 million vulnerable people have been asked to self-isolate for 12 weeks.
They will be sent letters or text messages urging them to stay at home to protect themselves from the highly infectious virus.
As the people most at-risk from coronavirus, those in the vulnerable groups shouldn't even leave their house to go to the supermarket.
The government plans to implement a food parcel delivery system to ensure that those self-isolating will have the supplies they need to get them through the three months.
Here's everything you need to know - including how to know if you're classed as 'vulnerable', and how to get a food parcel.
Am I considered a vulnerable person?
If you are among the 'vulnerable' groups, you should receive a letter, a text or an email from the government, urging you to self-isolate.
The high-risk groups for coronavirus are expected to include people...
Who have received an organ transplant
Who have certain specific cancers
Who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy
Who are having any treatment for blood or bone marrow cancer (such as leukaemia)
Who are having any cancer treatment that weakens the immune system (such as protein kinase inhibitors)
Who have received a bone marrow or stem cell transplant in the last six months, or are still taking immunosuppression drugs
Who have severe respiratory conditions including all cystic fibrosis, severe asthma and severe COPD
Who have rare diseases and inborn errors of metabolism that significantly increase the risk of infections (such as SCID, homozygous sickle cell)
Who are taking immunosuppression therapies sufficient to significantly increase risk of infection
If you're not sure whether you are considered as a vulnerable person, you should contact your GP - by phone.
How can I get a food parcel?
If you're considered a vulnerable person, you will receive a letter from the government. There will be a website and a phone number for you to contact to confirm that you would like the food parcels.
You will be asked if you have any dietary requirements, and also what medication you need.
Local councils will then work together with supermarkets and pharmacies to deliver food parcels, with all your prescriptions.
The parcels will be left on your doorstep, so you will not need to have physical contact with anybody.
How much do the food parcels cost?
For now, the food parcels will be free. This may change in the future.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Italian mayor in worst-hit town says his daughters are 'not safe in UK'

The mayor of the Italian town worst hit by coronavirus says he 's bringing his daughters home from the UK - because he does n't believe Britain is taking the disease seriously enough .
Giorgio Gori , mayor of Bergamo , lashed out at Boris Johnson 's response to the crisis .
Today officials confirmed that 335 Brits had died after contracting Covid-19 .
Italy 's death toll stands at nearly 5,500 , with 1,444 people dying this weekend alone .
In the northern city of Bergamo , there have been 6,471 cases .
Follow our coronavirus LIVE blog for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a historic lockdown , ordering Brits to stay at home and banning gatherings of more than two people , Mr Gori said his student daughters would be coming home .
Speaking to Sky News , he said : `` I have two daughters , they are studying in England , one in Taunton in college and the other in Canterbury , she 's doing a Masters .
`` And when I saw what the English government was thinking about this problem , I decided to bring them back .
`` I think that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the epidemic probably they are more secure here than in England .
Do you have a coronavirus story ?
Email webnews @ mirror.co.uk '' I do n't understand why the government did n't decide in time to protect their citizens . ''
The total number of confirmed cases in Italy rose to 63,927 today from a previous 59,138 , an increase of 8 % , the Civil Protection Agency said .
This is the lowest rise in percentage terms since the outbreak of the deadly virus came to light on February 21 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7,432 had fully recovered on Monday compared to 7,024 the day before .

Giorgio Gori, mayor of Bergamo in Northern Italy, hit out at the UK over its slow response to the crisis, and said his student daughters would be safer there than in Britain
Coronavirus: Italian mayor in worst-hit town says his daughters are 'not safe in UK'
The mayor of the Italian town worst hit by coronavirus says he's bringing his daughters home from the UK - because he doesn't believe Britain is taking the disease seriously enough.
Giorgio Gori, mayor of Bergamo, lashed out at Boris Johnson's response to the crisis.
Today officials confirmed that 335 Brits had died after contracting Covid-19.
Italy's death toll stands at nearly 5,500, with 1,444 people dying this weekend alone.
In the northern city of Bergamo, there have been 6,471 cases.
Follow our coronavirus LIVE blog for the latest updates
Before Boris Johnson announced a historic lockdown, ordering Brits to stay at home and banning gatherings of more than two people, Mr Gori said his student daughters would be coming home.
Speaking to Sky News, he said: "I have two daughters, they are studying in England, one in Taunton in college and the other in Canterbury, she's doing a Masters.
"And when I saw what the English government was thinking about this problem, I decided to bring them back.
"I think that even if we are at the centre of the epidemic probably they are more secure here than in England.
Do you have a coronavirus story? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk
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"I don't understand why the government didn't decide in time to protect their citizens."
The total number of confirmed cases in Italy rose to 63,927 today from a previous 59,138, an increase of 8%, the Civil Protection Agency said.
This is the lowest rise in percentage terms since the outbreak of the deadly virus came to light on February 21.
Of those originally infected nationwide, 7,432 had fully recovered on Monday compared to 7,024 the day before.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Coronation Street fans in stitches as Ken and Norris 'dressed for coronavirus'

Coronation Street viewers were in stitches as they tuned into the much-loved soap on Monday night .
During the episode scenes showed Ken Barlow ( Bill Roache ) and Norris Cole ( Malcolm Hebden ) attending a painting workshop - and fans found a moment of light relief amid the coronavirus pandemic when they spotted that the two characters were dressed in hazmat suits .
The characters donned the bright blue overall outfits to protect their clothing from paint but TV viewers saw the funny side of the ensembles the UK navigates an uncertain time during the pandemic .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ken are half dressed to battle the # coronavirus # corrie . ''
Another fan grateful for a moment of humour posted a snap of the pair and penned : `` Weatherfield Coronavirus Precautions .
# Corrie . ''
Other amused watchers added : `` # Corrie has got this # coronavirus sorted ... '' and `` Ken and Norris are dressed for coronavirus # Corrie . ''
Ken and Norris ' costumes were a complete coincidence as the ITV soap is filmed around six-weeks in advance .
Since the outbreak of covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face masks and gloves are in high-demand as people try to protect themselves from picking up the virus .
On Sunday , Coronation Street and Emmerdale bosses confirmed that they are axing filming of the soaps amid the coronavirus outbreak .
From Monday the popular ITV soaps will no longer continue to be made due to the TV channel endeavouring to adhere to guidelines surrounding the deadly bug .
A statement from an ITV spokesperson explained : “ ITV has sadly taken the decision to suspend production of the soaps Coronation Street and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We ’ ve been doing our best to carry on filming , whilst adhering to the Government ’ s latest health guidelines , to ensure we ’ ve episodes of both soaps airing on ITV until at least the early summer .
`` However , the health and well-being of the production teams , actors , crew and their families is of paramount importance to us and we now feel that the time has come to stop filming .
`` We ’ d like to thank our viewers for their support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soaps in the coming months . ''
On Corrie 's official Twitter account , they added : `` We ’ ll still be on air next week as normal , apart from Friday .
From 30th onwards we ’ ll be on three times a week . ''
Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at webtv @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033

Corrie fans fear for William Roache's health after he coughs live on This Morning
Corrie fans fear for William Roache's health after he coughs live on This Morning
Corrie viewers found a little light relief when they tuned into the ITV soap to see Ken Barlow and Norris Cole wearing hazmat suits on Monday evening
Coronation Street fans in stitches as Ken and Norris 'dressed for coronavirus'
Coronation Street viewers were in stitches as they tuned into the much-loved soap on Monday night.
During the episode scenes showed Ken Barlow (Bill Roache) and Norris Cole (Malcolm Hebden) attending a painting workshop - and fans found a moment of light relief amid the coronavirus pandemic when they spotted that the two characters were dressed in hazmat suits.
The characters donned the bright blue overall outfits to protect their clothing from paint but TV viewers saw the funny side of the ensembles the UK navigates an uncertain time during the pandemic.
One joked on Twitter: "Norris and Ken are half dressed to battle the #coronavirus #corrie."
Another fan grateful for a moment of humour posted a snap of the pair and penned: "Weatherfield Coronavirus Precautions. #Corrie."
Other amused watchers added: " #Corrie has got this #coronavirus sorted..." and "Ken and Norris are dressed for coronavirus #Corrie."
Image: Twitter) Twitter)
Ken and Norris' costumes were a complete coincidence as the ITV soap is filmed around six-weeks in advance.
Since the outbreak of covid-19 protective clothing such as hazmat suits, face masks and gloves are in high-demand as people try to protect themselves from picking up the virus.
On Sunday, Coronation Street and Emmerdale bosses confirmed that they are axing filming of the soaps amid the coronavirus outbreak.
From Monday the popular ITV soaps will no longer continue to be made due to the TV channel endeavouring to adhere to guidelines surrounding the deadly bug.
Image: Twitter) Twitter)
A statement from an ITV spokesperson explained: “ITV has sadly taken the decision to suspend production of the soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale with effect from Monday 23 March.
"We’ve been doing our best to carry on filming, whilst adhering to the Government’s latest health guidelines, to ensure we’ve episodes of both soaps airing on ITV until at least the early summer.
"However, the health and well-being of the production teams, actors, crew and their families is of paramount importance to us and we now feel that the time has come to stop filming.
Image: Twitter) Twitter)
"We’d like to thank our viewers for their support and hope they continue to enjoy both soaps in the coming months."
On Corrie's official Twitter account, they added: "We’ll still be on air next week as normal, apart from Friday. From 30th onwards we’ll be on three times a week."
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webtv@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Man Utd 'to seal permanent Odion Ighalo transfer' after discovering asking price

Man Utd are reportedly ready to seal the permanent transfer of Odion Ighalo after the striker 's impressive start at the club .
Ighalo 's current loan deal only runs until May , which as things stand would mean he would leave before the season is completed .
The transfer is likely to be extended in order for Ighalo to play the remainder of the campaign at United , who now want to ensure he stays at Old Trafford beyond the summer .
According to the Mail , United will stump up £15million to Ighalo 's parent club Shanghai Greenland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shanghai are willing to let Ighalo leave providing their asking price is met .
They waived a loan fee given United agreed to cover almost half of Ighalo 's £300k-per-week wages for the duration of his temporary switch .
United 's signing of Ighalo seemed a desperate last-ditch move on transfer deadline day .
The former Watford striker had been playing in the Chinese Super League since 2017 before United came calling to offer him his dream move .
Ighalo had been drafted in as back-up to Anthony Martial , but has since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three starts .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's recent comments suggested he would be looking to keep Ighalo in Manchester .
`` He will improve and get better , '' said the United boss .
`` He has qualities we saw in him that we needed .
And we will still need those qualities next season — so let ’ s see what we will do . ''
Ighalo refused to comment on his contract situation amid the current coronavirus crisis , but there is little doubt he would be eager to remain at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Shanghai to let him go on loan to United , even taking a huge pay cut to do so .
He said shortly after his arrival : `` People that know me , even back in Nigeria , and even when I was playing at Watford , my teammates knew that I loved Man Utd , I support them .
When I played against Man U , that emotion is there , because it is my dream . ''

Ighalo has scored four goals since his arrival on loan in January and has made no secret about his happiness at playing for United, who now want to sign the forward long-term
Man Utd are reportedly ready to seal the permanent transfer of Odion Ighalo after the striker's impressive start at the club.
Ighalo's current loan deal only runs until May, which as things stand would mean he would leave before the season is completed.
The transfer is likely to be extended in order for Ighalo to play the remainder of the campaign at United, who now want to ensure he stays at Old Trafford beyond the summer.
According to the Mail, United will stump up £15million to Ighalo's parent club Shanghai Greenland Shenhua to make the move permanent.
Shanghai are willing to let Ighalo leave providing their asking price is met.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
They waived a loan fee given United agreed to cover almost half of Ighalo's £300k-per-week wages for the duration of his temporary switch.
United's signing of Ighalo seemed a desperate last-ditch move on transfer deadline day.
The former Watford striker had been playing in the Chinese Super League since 2017 before United came calling to offer him his dream move.
Ighalo had been drafted in as back-up to Anthony Martial, but has since proven his worth with four goals in three starts.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's recent comments suggested he would be looking to keep Ighalo in Manchester.
"He will improve and get better," said the United boss.
"He has qualities we saw in him that we needed. And we will still need those qualities next season — so let’s see what we will do."
Ighalo refused to comment on his contract situation amid the current coronavirus crisis, but there is little doubt he would be eager to remain at his boyhood club.
The 30-year-old pleaded with Shanghai to let him go on loan to United, even taking a huge pay cut to do so.
He said shortly after his arrival: "People that know me, even back in Nigeria, and even when I was playing at Watford, my teammates knew that I loved Man Utd, I support them. When I played against Man U, that emotion is there, because it is my dream."


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Ryan Thomas lifts baby Roman in creative self-isolation workout routine

Ryan Thomas is getting creative with his workout routines as he stays at home amid the coronavirus outbreak .
The Coronation Street star , 35 , lifted his baby son Roman , who he shares with Lucy Mecklenburgh , in place of weights in a exercise video he shared to his Instagram stories on Monday night .
It comes as the government put Britain in lockdown to stop the spread of the deadly disease , with people only allowed out to go food shopping or to exercise .
But Ryan was n't going to let the bad news get him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little boy , who is just a few weeks old .
In the first post Ryan squatted as he held Roman in his arms .
The next showed him squatting while Roman relaxed in his Moses basket in front of him .
He then shared two videos of himself doing press-ups and every time he got down he gave Roman a kiss .
Lucy , who was filming the video , could be heard giggling in the background .
Roman seemed perfectly happy throughout the workout and could be seen wiggling his hands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ camera .
In his final video Ryan said : `` I 'm trying to stay positive , active , put myself in a good head space and I know you guys have been doing it . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the country will go into lockdown from Monday .
Only food shops , corner shops , hardware stores , chemists , petrol stations and newsagents are allowed to remain open .
People will be allowed out once a day to exercise and were warned to go shopping for food as infrequently @ @ @

Ryan Thomas lifted his baby son Roman in place of weights in a exercise video he shared to his Instagram stories on Monday
Ryan Thomas is getting creative with his workout routines as he stays at home amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The Coronation Street star, 35, lifted his baby son Roman, who he shares with Lucy Mecklenburgh, in place of weights in a exercise video he shared to his Instagram stories on Monday night.
It comes as the government put Britain in lockdown to stop the spread of the deadly disease, with people only allowed out to go food shopping or to exercise.
But Ryan wasn't going to let the bad news get him down as he goofed around with his little boy, who is just a few weeks old.
Image: Instagram) Instagram) Image: Instagram) Instagram)
In the first post Ryan squatted as he held Roman in his arms.
The next showed him squatting while Roman relaxed in his Moses basket in front of him.
He then shared two videos of himself doing press-ups and every time he got down he gave Roman a kiss.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Lucy, who was filming the video, could be heard giggling in the background.
Roman seemed perfectly happy throughout the workout and could be seen wiggling his hands and looking at his mum behind the camera.
In his final video Ryan said: "I'm trying to stay positive, active, put myself in a good head space and I know you guys have been doing it."
Image: ryanthomas84/Instagram) ryanthomas84/Instagram)
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the country will go into lockdown from Monday.
Only food shops, corner shops, hardware stores, chemists, petrol stations and newsagents are allowed to remain open.
People will be allowed out once a day to exercise and were warned to go shopping for food as infrequently as possible.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--Mike Ashley keeps Sports Direct open regarding stores as an essential service

Bosses at Sports Direct have said all stores will remain open because selling sporting and fitness equipment makes the company a vital asset during a national shutdown .
Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley 's Frasers Group , which includes Sports Direct and Evans Cycles , wrote to all workers within 30 minutes of Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's decision to shut down all non-essential retailers .
Finance chief Chris Wootton wrote : `` We stock a huge range of sports equipment designed for exercising at home ... indeed home fitness is the number one trending topic on social media after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the closure of gyms the demand for these types of products has increased exponentially as the population looks to maintain a healthy lifestyle .
`` Consequently , we are uniquely well placed to help keep the UK as fit and healthy as possible during this crisis and thus our Sports Direct and Evans Cycles stores will remain open where possible to allow us to do this ( in accordance with the Government 's current social distancing guidance ) .
`` There is no one else that has the range of product and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accessible for the whole population . ''
The finance chief , who sits on the board alongside chief executive and majority owner Mr Ashley , signed off : `` Thanks for your incredible efforts during this time . ''
The PM said restrictions would be tightened up so only essential journeys should be made by key workers .
He also said people could leave home for exercise , but only while maintaining social distancing .

Newcastle owner Mike Ashley will keep his Sports Direct stores open despite the government's lockdown regarding them as an essential service in the UK's bid to keep fit
Bosses at Sports Direct have said all stores will remain open because selling sporting and fitness equipment makes the company a vital asset during a national shutdown.
Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley's Frasers Group, which includes Sports Direct and Evans Cycles, wrote to all workers within 30 minutes of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to shut down all non-essential retailers.
Finance chief Chris Wootton wrote: "We stock a huge range of sports equipment designed for exercising at home... indeed home fitness is the number one trending topic on social media after coronavirus itself.
"Against the backdrop of the closure of gyms the demand for these types of products has increased exponentially as the population looks to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
"Consequently, we are uniquely well placed to help keep the UK as fit and healthy as possible during this crisis and thus our Sports Direct and Evans Cycles stores will remain open where possible to allow us to do this (in accordance with the Government's current social distancing guidance).
"There is no one else that has the range of product and range of stores to make this reasonably accessible for the whole population."
The finance chief, who sits on the board alongside chief executive and majority owner Mr Ashley, signed off: "Thanks for your incredible efforts during this time."
The PM said restrictions would be tightened up so only essential journeys should be made by key workers.
He also said people could leave home for exercise, but only while maintaining social distancing.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--'We must scrutinise coronavirus emergency legislation,' says Kevin Maguire

Our politicians must make very difficult decisions at this time of unprecedented crisis .
And they need sweeping legislation to @ @ @ @ @ we can not hand over absolute power to Whitehall long term .
Challenging the diktats @ @ @ @ @ Johnson is more important than ever .
Every draconian power must be fully justified .
@ @ @ @ @ coronavirus pandemic , click here If Johnson put half as much effort into combating Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ Britain out of Europe we might not be facing such a horrific crisis .
Sweeping @ @ @ @ @ Powers Bill demand forensic , if swift , scrutiny .
MPs should be voting every @ @ @ @ @ on amending , extending or scrapping them .
Recruiting ex-NHS staff is sound in a @ @ @ @ @ of standards would be dangerous .
We can accept last orders in pubs to protect @ @ @ @ @ we ’ d be fools to allow time to be called on wider civil liberties @ @ @ @ @

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
Our politicians need sweeping legislation to back them in the battle against Covid-19, but we cannot hand over absolute power to Whitehall long term - challenging diktats is more important than ever
Our politicians must make very difficult decisions at this time of unprecedented crisis.
And they need sweeping legislation to back them up.
But we cannot hand over absolute power to Whitehall long term.
Challenging the diktats from elected Tory dictator Boris Johnson is more important than ever.
Every draconian power must be fully justified.
For the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, click here
If Johnson put half as much effort into combating Covid-19 as he did into ripping Britain out of Europe we might not be facing such a horrific crisis.
Sweeping measures in the Coronavirus Emergency Powers Bill demand forensic, if swift, scrutiny.
MPs should be voting every three instead of six months on amending, extending or scrapping them.
Recruiting ex-NHS staff is sound in a crisis but a long-term relaxation of standards would be dangerous.
We can accept last orders in pubs to protect our health right now yet we’d be fools to allow time to be called on wider civil liberties for years to come.


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--How long UK's coronavirus lockdown will last

Britain is now in lockdown as we try to stop the spread of coronavirus Covid-19 .
People can only leave the house to buy essential items , such as food , for exercise once a day and to help vulnerable people .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's new rules will change everyone 's lives for the foreseeable future - but how long exactly ?
In his pre-recorded speech , Mr Johnson did n't give an exact date for when we would be able to return to normal .
The government website states : `` These measures are effective immediately .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ these measures in three weeks , and relax them if the evidence shows this is possible . ''
This means the current plan is to keep the rules in place for at least three weeks , with the possibility of extending them for even longer .
Italy , the worst hit country in Europe , has been in complete lockdown since March 9 .
Tens of thousands of people have been charged for breaking the rules .
In the UK , people are now only allowed to leave their house for four reasons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential items , such as food • to do exercise , but only once a day .
This can be a walk or a jog .
You must do this alone or with people you live with • to travel to work if it is absolutely necessary Johnson has described coronavirus Covid-19 as `` the biggest threat this country has faced for decades '' .
He said : `` All over the world we are seeing the devastating impact of this invisible killer .
`` Without a huge national effort to halt the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come a moment when no health service in the world could possibly cope ; because there won ’ t be enough ventilators , enough intensive care beds , enough doctors and nurses .
`` And as we have seen elsewhere , in other countries that also have fantastic health care systems , that is the moment of real danger .
`` To put it simply , if too many people become seriously unwell at one time , the NHS will be unable to handle it - meaning more people are likely to die @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other illnesses as well .
`` So it ’ s vital to slow the spread of the disease . ''

UPDATE: BORIS JOHNSON ON THE LIMITED REASONS PEOPLE ARE ALLOWED TO GO OUTSIDE
UPDATE: BORIS JOHNSON ON THE LIMITED REASONS PEOPLE ARE ALLOWED TO GO OUTSIDE
Boris Johnson has put the UK into lockdown in a bid to battle coronavirus Covid-19, with the number of British deaths and confirmed cases rising every day
How long is UK coronavirus lockdown? What Boris Johnson said about when it will end
Britain is now in lockdown as we try to stop the spread of coronavirus Covid-19.
People can only leave the house to buy essential items, such as food, for exercise once a day and to help vulnerable people.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson's new rules will change everyone's lives for the foreseeable future - but how long exactly?
In his pre-recorded speech, Mr Johnson didn't give an exact date for when we would be able to return to normal.
The government website states: "These measures are effective immediately.
"The Government will look again at these measures in three weeks, and relax them if the evidence shows this is possible."
Image: Jake McPherson / SWNS) Jake McPherson / SWNS)
This means the current plan is to keep the rules in place for at least three weeks, with the possibility of extending them for even longer.
Italy, the worst hit country in Europe, has been in complete lockdown since March 9.
Tens of thousands of people have been charged for breaking the rules.
In the UK, people are now only allowed to leave their house for four reasons. They are:
to buy essential items, such as food
to do exercise, but only once a day. This can be a walk or a jog. You must do this alone or with people you live with
to travel to work if it is absolutely necessary
to care for a vulnerable person.
Johnson has described coronavirus Covid-19 as "the biggest threat this country has faced for decades".
Image: PA) PA)
He said: "All over the world we are seeing the devastating impact of this invisible killer.
"Without a huge national effort to halt the growth of this virus, there will come a moment when no health service in the world could possibly cope; because there won’t be enough ventilators, enough intensive care beds, enough doctors and nurses.
"And as we have seen elsewhere, in other countries that also have fantastic health care systems, that is the moment of real danger.
"To put it simply, if too many people become seriously unwell at one time, the NHS will be unable to handle it - meaning more people are likely to die, not just from Coronavirus but from other illnesses as well.
"So it’s vital to slow the spread of the disease."


thedailymirror--2020-03-23--What the coronavirus Bill means for you as strict new laws are passed

The House of Commons has passed legislation giving ministers sweeping powers to tackle the Covid-19 crisis .
It moves to the Lords on Tuesday and is expected to become law this week .
The powers will last for two years , being reviewed every six months .
This is what the Coronavirus Bill will mean for our everyday lives ... Shops and restaurants can be forced to shut , and events can be cancelled .
In reality , much of this has already happened , with eateries closed , concerts postponed and sports leagues suspended .
But the power will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers can axe the gatherings they believe will fuel the spread of coronavirus , or those that will be an unacceptable drain on emergency services whose time could be better spent elsewhere .
It means Whitehall can order authorities to stop people entering premises , or force people who own or are organising an event to cancel it .
The legislation also gives ministers the power to close “ events or gatherings of a specified description ” , meaning they could close bars , restaurants or any other type of specified venue .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ closeed voluntarily , with no idea of when they will reopen .
Doctors will be able to sign death certificates without seeing the patient ’ s corpse .
Relatives will also be able to register a death without visiting the Register Office in person .
Authorities in England and Wales will be able to cremate a body based on a medical certificate from just one medical practitioner .
The current law requires a second medical certificate confirming the details – a reform that was brought in to stop another offender repeating the mass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The move “ is aimed at simplifying the process in order to address the expected increased volume of deaths ” and the need to keep doctors on the front line , the government says .
Easing bureaucracy will allow medics to spend more time on wards treating ill people and saving lives , supporters say .
Councils are to be given powers to step up planning to create temporary mortuaries .
National authorities – once sanctioned by a minister – could force individuals or companies to provide their facilities if they could help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of dead bodies .
Examples include sites at private funeral homes or crematoria .
If a local authority is failing to perform these duties effectively , the government has the power to step in and take over the handling of the deceased .
In some cases , it also gives local authorities the power to direct whether a body is buried or cremated .
Meanwhile , it has been confirmed that inquests into coronavirus-related deaths will not have juries .
Current law says Covid-19 is a “ notifiable disease ” , which means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But that would have “ significant resource implications ” – so , instead , a coroner will be able to hold a simpler inquest without a jury in order to speed up the process .
Police can force suspected Covid-19 sufferers to undergo a test – and arrest them and fine them £1,000 if they refuse .
Anyone deemed “ potentially infectious ” can be detained for up to 48 hours while they undergo screening .
If people are infectious , they can be quarantined for 28 days .
Public health officers can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are “ necessary and proportionate ” to stop the person infecting others .
This can include forcing people to remain in isolation , and restrictions on travel , activities and contact with other people .
The Bill gives public health officials the power to force someone into isolation for up to 14 days .
If a public health officer believes the person will be “ potentially infectious ” at the end of the period , it can be extended by up to a further 14 days – 28 days in total .
Recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rushed to the front line after fewer checks , to boost the number of NHS staff available to treat coronavirus patients .
Currently , a former NHS worker ’ s pension benefits are suspended if they return to work .
However , the emergency legislation will ensure they carry on getting their pension .
Other parts of the bill are designed to slash the amount of red-tape preventing experts coming out of retirement .
Royal College of Nursing chief executive Dame Donna Kinnair said : “ Many nursing students and some recently retired @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We have been clear that students in the last six months of their degree must be free to choose to work .
They must also be supported and supervised during their placements , and be properly remunerated.
” The Bill confirms the move to pay Statutory Sick Pay from the first day of illness or self-isolation – as well as the ability of employers to claw back the first two weeks ’ pay from the government .
It also loosens the law so that ministers will quickly be able to change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This is because not everyone claiming the benefit now will be ill – some of them will be in self-isolation , for example if they are in a high-risk group or because someone in their household has tested positive .
Ministers say the legislation will give the “ flexibility ” for the rules on sick pay to follow the latest advice as it emerges from public health experts .
But critics say it does not go far enough , because SSP is too low and not available to low-wage workers or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last night said that the incomes of the self-employed and freelancers “ are now increasingly being seriously affected by the coronavirus outbreak ” .
Ministers will be given the power to order ports , airports or international rail terminals to suspend activities if they can show there is a risk of Covid-19 spreading or the Border Force is unable to adequately control the frontier because of pressures elsewhere .
That could include the force being clobbered with a staffing crisis if workers are struck down with coronavirus .
The Bill says the power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a “ significant risk ” to the public .
The initial suspension can last no longer than six hours .
It can be extended by notice for six hours and then at 12-hour intervals if notice is given .
But the government must demonstrate each time that the situation would be dangerous if the port is not closed .
In reality , almost all international travel in and out of the UK has already ground to halt .
Stores could be made to co-operate with the government over panic-buying .
The Bill gives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to disclose any disruption to the food supply .
The Environment Secretary will be able to “ require information from persons within , or closely connected to , a food supply chain ” if he believes it is at risk of disruption .
Such information can not be demanded from an individual – protecting farmers and corner shop owners .
But it can be used against food producers , slaughterhouses , packaging centres , distributors and retailers .
Firms that refuse to comply can be fined 1 % of their entire turnover , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be many millions of pounds .
The measure aims to give Whitehall the clearest , most up-to-date information about food supply .
Again , supermarkets are already voluntarily co-operating with government on supply and to ease panic buying .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Ben Glaze, Nicola Bartlett, Dan Bloom, Oliver Milne)

UPDATE: BORIS JOHNSON ON THE LIMITED REASONS PEOPLE ARE ALLOWED TO GO OUTSIDE
UPDATE: BORIS JOHNSON ON THE LIMITED REASONS PEOPLE ARE ALLOWED TO GO OUTSIDE
Huge changes are on the way as the government will get sweeping new powers allowing it to shut shops, cancel events, force people to take Covid-19 tests and fast-track retired NHS workers back to the front line
Coronavirus Bill: What it means for shops, funerals, travel, sick pay and more
The House of Commons has passed legislation giving ministers sweeping powers to tackle the Covid-19 crisis.
It moves to the Lords on Tuesday and is expected to become law this week.
The powers will last for two years, being reviewed every six months.
This is what the Coronavirus Bill will mean for our everyday lives...
Closures
Shops and restaurants can be forced to shut, and events can be cancelled.
In reality, much of this has already happened, with eateries closed, concerts postponed and sports leagues suspended.
Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live) Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
But the power will be formalised in the legislation so that ministers can axe the gatherings they believe will fuel the spread of coronavirus, or those that will be an unacceptable drain on emergency services whose time could be better spent elsewhere.
It means Whitehall can order authorities to stop people entering premises, or force people who own or are organising an event to cancel it. The legislation also gives ministers the power to close “events or gatherings of a specified description”, meaning they could close bars, restaurants or any other type of specified venue.
However, many hospitality venues have already closeed voluntarily, with no idea of when they will reopen.
Deaths
Doctors will be able to sign death certificates without seeing the patient’s corpse.
Relatives will also be able to register a death without visiting the Register Office in person.
Authorities in England and Wales will be able to cremate a body based on a medical certificate from just one medical practitioner.
The current law requires a second medical certificate confirming the details – a reform that was brought in to stop another offender repeating the mass murders of evil doctor Harold Shipman.
The move “is aimed at simplifying the process in order to address the expected increased volume of deaths” and the need to keep doctors on the front line, the government says.
Easing bureaucracy will allow medics to spend more time on wards treating ill people and saving lives, supporters say.
Mortuaries
Image: Getty) Getty)
Councils are to be given powers to step up planning to create temporary mortuaries.
National authorities – once sanctioned by a minister – could force individuals or companies to provide their facilities if they could help in the storage, disposal or transportation of dead bodies. Examples include sites at private funeral homes or crematoria.
If a local authority is failing to perform these duties effectively, the government has the power to step in and take over the handling of the deceased.
In some cases, it also gives local authorities the power to direct whether a body is buried or cremated.
Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that inquests into coronavirus-related deaths will not have juries.
Current law says Covid-19 is a “notifiable disease”, which means every related death needs an inquest.
But that would have “significant resource implications” – so, instead, a coroner will be able to hold a simpler inquest without a jury in order to speed up the process.
Quarantine
Image: Pete Harbour) Pete Harbour)
Police can force suspected Covid-19 sufferers to undergo a test – and arrest them and fine them £1,000 if they refuse.
Anyone deemed “potentially infectious” can be detained for up to 48 hours while they undergo screening.
If people are infectious, they can be quarantined for 28 days.
Public health officers can exercise further powers if they believe they are “necessary and proportionate” to stop the person infecting others.
This can include forcing people to remain in isolation, and restrictions on travel, activities and contact with other people.
The Bill gives public health officials the power to force someone into isolation for up to 14 days.
If a public health officer believes the person will be “potentially infectious” at the end of the period, it can be extended by up to a further 14 days – 28 days in total.
Retired NHS staff
Image: PA Wire/Press Association Images) PA Wire/Press Association Images)
Recently retired doctors and medical students will be rushed to the front line after fewer
checks, to boost the number of NHS staff available to treat coronavirus patients.
Currently, a former NHS worker’s pension benefits are suspended if they return to work.
However, the emergency legislation will ensure they carry on getting their pension.
Other parts of the bill are designed to slash the amount of red-tape preventing experts coming out of retirement.
Royal College of Nursing chief executive Dame Donna Kinnair said: “Many nursing students and some recently retired nurses will want to play their part.
“We have been clear that students in the last six months of their degree must be free to choose to work. They must also be supported and supervised during their placements, and be properly remunerated.”
Sick pay
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The Bill confirms the move to pay Statutory Sick Pay from the first day of illness or self-isolation – as well as the ability of employers to claw back the first two weeks’ pay from the government.
It also loosens the law so that ministers will quickly be able to change exactly how people become eligible for SSP.
This is because not everyone claiming the benefit now will be ill – some of them will be in self-isolation, for example if they are in a high-risk group or because someone in their household has tested positive.
Ministers say the legislation will give the “flexibility” for the rules on sick pay to follow the latest advice as it emerges from public health experts.
But critics say it does not go far enough, because SSP is too low and not available to low-wage workers or the self-employed.
Shadow Health Secretary Jon Ashworth last night said that the incomes of the self-employed and freelancers “are now increasingly being seriously affected by the coronavirus outbreak”.
Travel
Ministers will be given the power to order ports, airports or international rail terminals to suspend activities if they can show there is a risk of Covid-19 spreading or the Border Force is unable to adequately control the frontier because of pressures elsewhere.
That could include the force being clobbered with a staffing crisis if workers are struck down with coronavirus.
The Bill says the power can only be used if there is a “significant risk” to the public.
The initial suspension can last no longer than six hours. It can be extended by notice for six hours and then at 12-hour intervals if notice is given. But the government must demonstrate each time that the situation would be dangerous if the port is not closed.
In reality, almost all international travel in and out of the UK has already ground to halt.
Supermarkets
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Stores could be made to co-operate with the government over panic-buying.
The Bill gives ministers sweeping powers to force privately-run supermarkets to disclose any disruption to the food supply.
The Environment Secretary will be able to “require information from persons within, or closely connected to, a food supply chain” if he believes it is at risk of disruption.
Such information cannot be demanded from an individual – protecting farmers and corner shop owners.
But it can be used against food producers, slaughterhouses, packaging centres, distributors and retailers.
Firms that refuse to comply can be fined 1% of their entire turnover, which for a major supermarket firm would be many millions
of pounds.
The measure aims to give Whitehall the clearest, most up-to-date information about food supply.
Again, supermarkets are already voluntarily co-operating with government on supply and to ease panic buying.