thedailymirror--2020-10-07--Life should return to normal 'for all but elderly and vulnerable' experts say

Those less vulnerable to the effects of coronavirus should be allowed to `` resume life as normal '' , according to an anti-lockdown petition supported by 4,000 leading scientists .
The new declaration has reached more than 40,000 signatures overall when factoring in support from academics and the general public across the world .
It calls for a herd immunity approach to tackling the Covid-19 pandemic while protecting the most vulnerable populations .
Academics from the universities of Oxford , Nottingham , Edinburgh , Exeter , Cambridge , Sussex , York , St George 's University of London , Strathclyde @ @ @ @ @ @ @ London and the University of East Anglia are among experts from around the world who have signed the declaration .
It comes after recent remarks from the leader of the NHS in England , Sir Simon Stevens , who said that asking all over-65s to shield to slow the transmission of the second wave of coronavirus would be `` age-based apartheid '' .
And another expert said the declaration ignores the growing evidence on long Covid - whereby thousands of fit and young people who contract the virus have been left with debilitating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Professor Jeremy Rossman pointed out that research suggests that protective antibody responses may `` decay rapidly '' and that there have been cases of re-infection of the virus .
And Sweden , which adopted a herd immunity approach and is often touted as a 'successful alternative ' by lockdown skeptics , was `` not able to successfully protect the vulnerable population '' , he added .
The so-called Great Barrington declaration states : `` As infectious disease epidemiologists and public health scientists we have grave concerns about the damaging physical and mental health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and recommend an approach we call Focused Protection .
`` Current lockdown policies are producing devastating effects on short and long-term public health .
`` The results ( to name a few ) include lower childhood vaccination rates , worsening cardiovascular disease outcomes , fewer cancer screenings and deteriorating mental health - leading to greater excess mortality in years to come , with the working class and younger members of society carrying the heaviest burden .
`` Keeping students out of school is a grave injustice .
`` Keeping these measures in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ irreparable damage , with the underprivileged disproportionately harmed .
`` We know that vulnerability to death from Covid-19 is more than a thousand-fold higher in the old and infirm than the young .
Indeed , for children , Covid-19 is less dangerous than many other harms , including influenza .
`` As immunity builds in the population , the risk of infection to all - including the vulnerable - falls .
We know that all populations will eventually reach herd immunity - i.e .
the point at which the rate of new infections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be assisted by ( but is not dependent upon ) a vaccine .
Our goal should therefore be to minimise mortality and social harm until we reach herd immunity .
`` The most compassionate approach that balances the risks and benefits of reaching herd immunity , is to allow those who are at minimal risk of death to live their lives normally to build up immunity to the virus through natural infection , while better protecting those who are at highest risk .
It adds : `` Those who are not vulnerable should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal .
`` Simple hygiene measures , such as hand washing and staying home when sick should be practised by everyone to reduce the herd immunity threshold .
`` Schools and universities should be open for in-person teaching .
Extracurricular activities , such as sports , should be resumed .
`` Young low-risk adults should work normally , rather than from home .
Restaurants and other businesses should open .
`` Arts , music , sport and other cultural activities should resume .
People who are more at risk may participate if they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enjoys the protection conferred upon the vulnerable by those who have built up herd immunity . ''
Commenting on the declaration , Prof Rossman , honorary senior lecturer in virology at the University of Kent , said : `` Unfortunately , this declaration ignores three critical aspects that could result in significant impacts to health and lives .
`` First , we still do not know if herd immunity is possible to achieve .
Herd immunity relies on lasting immunological protection from coronavirus re-infection ; however , we have heard many recent cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protective antibody responses may decay rapidly .
`` Second , the declaration focuses only on the risk of death from Covid-19 but ignores the growing awareness of long Covid , that many healthy young adults with mild infections are experiencing protracted symptoms and long-term disability .
`` Third , countries that have forgone lockdown restrictions in favour of personal responsibility and focused protection of the elderly , such as Sweden , were not able to successfully protect the vulnerable population . ''
Prof James Naismith , director of the Rosalind Franklin Institute , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` The main signatories include many accomplished scientists and I read it with interest .
I will not be signing it however .
`` The declaration risks the same error we have seen with the UK 's track trace and isolate scheme - one can promise a scheme that is very easy to describe but is hard to deliver . ''
He added that the declaration omits some `` critical scientific information '' .

The so-called Great Barrington declaration shows a clear divide in the opinion on how to go forward in the fight against coronavirus across the world, with many criticising any reliance on herd immunity
Life should return to normal for all but elderly and vulnerable, urge experts
Those less vulnerable to the effects of coronavirus should be allowed to "resume life as normal", according to an anti-lockdown petition.
The Great Barrington declaration has reached more than 40,000 signatures overall across the world, with many scientists adding their names.
It calls for a herd immunity approach to tackling the Covid-19 pandemic while protecting the most vulnerable populations.
Academics from the universities of Oxford, Nottingham, Edinburgh, Exeter, Cambridge, Sussex, York, St George's University of London, Strathclyde, Leicester, Queen Mary University of London and the University of East Anglia are among those who have signed the declaration.
Image: Andy Commins / Daily Mirror) Andy Commins / Daily Mirror)
It comes after recent remarks from the leader of the NHS in England, Sir Simon Stevens, who said that asking all over-65s to shield to slow the transmission of the second wave of coronavirus would be "age-based apartheid".
And another expert said the declaration ignores the growing evidence on 'long Covid' - whereby thousands of fit and young people who contract the virus have been left with debilitating symptoms months after a mild infection.
Professor Jeremy Rossman pointed out that research suggests that protective antibody responses may "decay rapidly" and that there have been cases of re-infection of the virus.
Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror) Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
And Sweden, which adopted a herd immunity approach and is often touted as a 'successful alternative' by lockdown skeptics, was "not able to successfully protect the vulnerable population", he added.
The so-called Great Barrington declaration states: "As infectious disease epidemiologists and public health scientists we have grave concerns about the damaging physical and mental health impacts of the prevailing Covid-19 policies, and recommend an approach we call Focused Protection.
"Current lockdown policies are producing devastating effects on short and long-term public health.
Image: Pippa Fowles / No10 Downing Street) Pippa Fowles / No10 Downing Street)
"The results (to name a few) include lower childhood vaccination rates, worsening cardiovascular disease outcomes, fewer cancer screenings and deteriorating mental health - leading to greater excess mortality in years to come, with the working class and younger members of society carrying the heaviest burden.
"Keeping students out of school is a grave injustice.
"Keeping these measures in place until a vaccine is available will cause irreparable damage, with the underprivileged disproportionately harmed.
Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror) Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
"We know that vulnerability to death from Covid-19 is more than a thousand-fold higher in the old and infirm than the young. Indeed, for children, Covid-19 is less dangerous than many other harms, including influenza.
"As immunity builds in the population, the risk of infection to all - including the vulnerable - falls.
"We know that all populations will eventually reach herd immunity - i.e. the point at which the rate of new infections is stable - and that this can be assisted by (but is not dependent upon) a vaccine.
"Our goal should therefore be to minimise mortality and social harm until we reach herd immunity.
"The most compassionate approach that balances the risks and benefits of reaching herd immunity, is to allow those who are at minimal risk of death to live their lives normally to build up immunity to the virus through natural infection, while better protecting those who are at highest risk.
Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror) Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
"We call this Focused Protection."
It adds: "Those who are not vulnerable should immediately be allowed to resume life as normal.
"Simple hygiene measures, such as hand washing and staying home when sick should be practised by everyone to reduce the herd immunity threshold.
"Schools and universities should be open for in-person teaching. Extracurricular activities, such as sports, should be resumed.
"Young low-risk adults should work normally, rather than from home. Restaurants and other businesses should open.
"Arts, music, sport and other cultural activities should resume. People who are more at risk may participate if they wish, while society as a whole enjoys the protection conferred upon the vulnerable by those who have built up herd immunity."
Commenting on the declaration, Prof Rossman, honorary senior lecturer in virology at the University of Kent, said: "Unfortunately, this declaration ignores three critical aspects that could result in significant impacts to health and lives.
"First, we still do not know if herd immunity is possible to achieve. Herd immunity relies on lasting immunological protection from coronavirus re-infection; however, we have heard many recent cases of re-infection occurring and some research suggests protective antibody responses may decay rapidly.
"Second, the declaration focuses only on the risk of death from Covid-19 but ignores the growing awareness of long Covid, that many healthy young adults with mild infections are experiencing protracted symptoms and long-term disability.
"Third, countries that have forgone lockdown restrictions in favour of personal responsibility and focused protection of the elderly, such as Sweden, were not able to successfully protect the vulnerable population."
Prof James Naismith, director of the Rosalind Franklin Institute, and of the University of Oxford, said: "The main signatories include many accomplished scientists and I read it with interest. I will not be signing it however.
"The declaration risks the same error we have seen with the UK's track trace and isolate scheme - one can promise a scheme that is very easy to describe but is hard to deliver."
He added that the declaration omits some "critical scientific information".
* An earlier version of this article stated that thousands of scientists had signed the petition. However, signatories do not need to prove they are scientists, so it is unclear how many are.


thedailymirror--2020-10-07--Arteta told exactly what to expect from Partey by ex-Ghana boss Grant

Former Ghana manager Avram Grant has told Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta what he can expect from Thomas Partey .
The 27-year-old is the latest signing at the Emirates after a deadline day switch from Atletico Madrid .
He had been the main priority for Arteta , who was desperate to add some steel to his midfield .
Partey has been earmarked as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe after a stellar campaign in La Liga .
And Grant knows all about him , having coached him at international level for Ghana , and he had a word of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told The Sun : “ I ’ d ask the Arsenal fans to give him a few weeks just to get used to English football , because it is still played differently in the Premier League to anywhere else , even if there are more foreign players now .
`` But he will prove a good signing , perfect for what Mikel Arteta is trying to do .
“ When you need him to hold the ball up , he can do that and he is a great fit for what Arteta is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you ask him to play wide , he can but it ’ s not his position .
Get the latest Arsenal transfer news straight into your inbox !
Mikel Arteta 's Gunners have been starved of title glory for a while now - but things could be changing as a new-look Arsenal side plot a course to success .
You wo n't miss a single thing on their journey if you sign up for the brilliant new Mirror Football newsletter , either !
From the latest transfer news to the agenda-setting stories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inbox .
New signings Willian and Gabriel Magalhaes both hit the ground running against Fulham but Mikel Arteta is still on the lookout for new signings .
Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar and Brentford keeper David Raya are two of the names on their radar .
Want to sign up and follow Arteta 's journey ?
Put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link .
“ He is a central midfielder , who will win the ball and play the right pass forward and can see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and committed to his team .
“ And he will make a big difference to Arsenal , just like he did at Atletico .
`` He is a really good signing , just what they needed.
” Partey became the sixth signing at the Emirates after the arrivals of Willian , Pablo Mari , Cedric Soares , Runar Alex Runarsson and Gabriel Magalhaes , as well as another loan for Dani Ceballos .
Grant added : “ From the first time I watched him , I saw a player who was very strong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understands the game very well .
“ Even when he was relatively young and inexperienced , he knew what he needed to do in terms of possession and position , how to get in the right place at the right time .
“ But he ’ s also a very good boy , on and off the pitch , with a great character .
`` He wants to do his job and he is very consistent .
“ Thomas doesn ’ t tend to have good days and bad days because you know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him , which is his best for the team .
”

Arsenal finally landed Thomas Partey after chasing him throughout the transfer window in a move that will surely delight Mikel Arteta, who made him his top target
Mikel Arteta told exactly what to expect from Thomas Partey by ex-Ghana boss Avram Grant
Former Ghana manager Avram Grant has told Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta what he can expect from Thomas Partey.
The 27-year-old is the latest signing at the Emirates after a deadline day switch from Atletico Madrid.
He had been the main priority for Arteta, who was desperate to add some steel to his midfield.
Partey has been earmarked as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe after a stellar campaign in La Liga.
And Grant knows all about him, having coached him at international level for Ghana, and he had a word of advice for the Gunners coach.
He told The Sun : “I’d ask the Arsenal fans to give him a few weeks just to get used to English football, because it is still played differently in the Premier League to anywhere else, even if there are more foreign players now.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
"But he will prove a good signing, perfect for what Mikel Arteta is trying to do.
“When you need him to hold the ball up, he can do that and he is a great fit for what Arteta is trying to make his team.
“If you ask him to play wide, he can but it’s not his position.
Get the latest Arsenal news straight into your inbox! Mikel Arteta's Gunners have been starved of title glory for a while now - but things look on the up as Arsenal battle for their place at the top. There's plenty to hash, but you won't miss a single moment of their top four bid when you sign up for the Mirror Arsenal newsletter. From the latest transfer news and analysis to the agenda-setting stories, get it all in your email inbox. To follow the Gunners on their journey, type in your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link.
“He is a central midfielder, who will win the ball and play the right pass forward and can see the pitch, tactically disciplined as well and committed to his team.
“And he will make a big difference to Arsenal, just like he did at Atletico.
"He is a really good signing, just what they needed.”
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Partey became the sixth signing at the Emirates after the arrivals of Willian, Pablo Mari, Cedric Soares, Runar Alex Runarsson and Gabriel Magalhaes, as well as another loan for Dani Ceballos.
Grant added: “From the first time I watched him, I saw a player who was very strong and good on the ball, who understands the game very well.
“Even when he was relatively young and inexperienced, he knew what he needed to do in terms of possession and position, how to get in the right place at the right time.
“But he’s also a very good boy, on and off the pitch, with a great character.
"He wants to do his job and he is very consistent.
“Thomas doesn’t tend to have good days and bad days because you know every match what you will get from him, which is his best for the team.”


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Boris 'considering putting millions in North into lockdown' as cases surge

Boris Johnson is considering putting millions in the north of England back into lockdown as cases surge , it has been reported .
Pubs and restaurants , as well as all but essential shops , could be forced to close in hard hit cities - though schools and work places would remain open , after UK coronavirus cases doubled in a week .
But leaders in the likes of Manchester , Liverpool , Newcastle and Leeds , where cases are surging , say they wo n't support further `` economic lockdowns '' and want greater powers of their own to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
A Downing Street source told The Sun : `` The numbers are going the wrong way , and there will come a point very soon where we simply have to do more . ''
Yesterday , the Prime Minister told the virtual Conservative Party conference , Britain has already had to accept draconian measures for months because there was `` simply no reasonable alternative '' .
He is understood to have deferred giving the green light to Health Secretary Matt Hancock 's simplified three-tier lockdown system , aimed at improving people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ briefing with medical advisers .
And it comes as Chancellor Rishi Sunak reportedly draws up proposals to offer further support to companies affected by local lockdowns .
The measures will be focused on companies which have been made to close , reports the Financial Times .
The UK-wide seven-day rate currently stands at 125.7 cases per 100,000 people , up from 63.8 per 100,000 a week ago .
When it comes to daily figures , as of 9am on Tuesday , there were 14,542 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September 22 , there were 4,926 cases recorded .
The Government said a further 76 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Tuesday .
More than 58,000 deaths involving Covid-19 have now been registered in the UK .
There were 478 people admitted to hospital in England with Covid-19 on Sunday , the highest daily total in four months , and up from 241 a week earlier .
There were 2,783 patients in hospital with Covid-19 on Tuesday , an increase from 1,881 a week earlier , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 259 seven days ago .
Cities in the north have been hit particular hard , compared to the south .
The latest weekly infection figures showing that Manchester 's rate has soared , with 3,105 new cases recorded in the seven days to October 3 - the equivalent of 561.6 cases per 100,000 people .
Other areas with high rates are Knowsley and Liverpool , while Newcastle upon Tyne , Sheffield and Leeds have recorded large jumps in their infection rate over the last seven days .
But leaders of northern cities have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working '' , confusing and even `` counter-productive '' .
The leaders of Leeds , Manchester and Newcastle city councils - Judith Blake , Sir Richard Leese and Nick Forbes - joined Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson to write to the Health Secretary to say they are `` extremely concerned '' with the rise in cases .
Professor John Edmunds , who is advising the Government 's coronavirus response , joined the criticism of local measures on Tuesday and said new national restrictions were needed immediately .

The Prime Minister told the Tory party conference Britain has already had to accept tough measures because there was "simply no reasonable alternative" but northern leaders warn they won't support further "economic lockdowns"
Boris Johnson is considering putting millions in the North of England into a tougher lockdown as coronavirus cases continue to surge, it has been reported.
Pubs and restaurants, as well as all but essential shops, could be forced to close in hard hit cities - though schools and work places would remain open, after UK coronavirus cases doubled in a week.
But leaders in the likes of Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle and Leeds, where cases are surging, say they won't support further "economic lockdowns" and want greater powers of their own to help dig their way out of the pandemic.
A Downing Street source told The Sun: "The numbers are going the wrong way, and there will come a point very soon where we simply have to do more."
A Whitehall source told Politico: "Alarm bells are ringing across Whitehall. These numbers are incredibly concerning, it looks increasingly like further action will need to be taken soon.
"There are indications the disease is starting to spread more amongst the older population — those most at risk of hospitalisation and death."
Yesterday, the Prime Minister told the virtual Conservative Party conference, Britain has already had to accept draconian measures for months because there was "simply no reasonable alternative".
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
He is said to have deferred giving the green light to Health Secretary Matt Hancock's simplified three-tier lockdown system, aimed at improving people's compliance with the rules, at this stage after a Cabinet row and scientific briefing.
A three-tier system could still come in this week, or the Prime Minister could bring in a system that supersedes it.
The Prime Minister has been accused of losing control of the battle against the virus, with the latest daily figures showing a huge 14,542 new confirmed cases in the UK.
The figures have trebled in a fortnight - on September 22, there were 4,926 cases recorded.
According to the Times, the government's scientific advisers called for "urgent and drastic action" yesterday. According to The Times, new nationwide measures are not ruled out.
Professor John Edmunds, who is advising the Government's coronavirus response, said new national restrictions were needed immediately.
He said the Government's current "light touch" measures are just "delaying the inevitable", telling BBC Newsnight: "We need to take much more stringent measures, not just in the north of England, we need to do it countrywide, and bring the epidemic back under control."
Image: Andrew Parsons / CCHQ via Parsons Media) Andrew Parsons / CCHQ via Parsons Media)
Cities in the North of England have been hit particular hard, compared to the south, with the latest weekly infection figures showing Manchester's rate has soared.
There were 3,105 new cases recorded in the seven days to October 3 - the equivalent of 561.6 cases per 100,000 people.
Other areas with high rates are Knowsley and Liverpool, while Newcastle upon Tyne, Sheffield and Leeds have recorded large jumps in their infection rate over the last seven days.
Image: SWNS) SWNS) Image: North News & Pictures northn) North News & Pictures northn)
But leaders of northern cities have warned local lockdown restrictions are "not working", confusing and even "counter-productive".
The leaders of Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle city councils - Judith Blake, Sir Richard Leese and Nick Forbes - joined Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson to write to the Health Secretary to say they are "extremely concerned" with the rise in cases.
"The existing restrictions are not working, confusing for the public and some, like the 10pm rule, are counter-productive," the Labour politicians wrote.
Image: Adam Vaughan) Adam Vaughan) Image: NB PRESS LTD) NB PRESS LTD)
They called for additional powers to punish those who break rules, for new restrictions to be developed by police, council and public health experts and for a locally-controlled test and trace system.
"We want to be clear however that we do not support further economic lockdowns," the leaders added.
The 10pm closure rule for pubs and restaurants in particular has been criticised across the political spectrum, and the Government is braced for a potential rebellion from backbench Conservatives if it goes to a Commons vote.
Image: Liverpool Echo) Liverpool Echo)
Professor John Edmunds, who is advising the Government's coronavirus response, joined the criticism of local measures on Tuesday and said new national restrictions were needed immediately.
"These local restrictions that have been put in place in much of the north of England really haven't been very effective," he told BBC Newsnight.
"We need to take much more stringent measures, not just in the north of England, we need to do it countrywide, and bring the epidemic back under control."
He said the Government's current "light touch" measures are just "delaying the inevitable".
Image: Daily Mirror/Andy Stenning) Daily Mirror/Andy Stenning)
"We will at some point put very stringent measures in place because we will have to when hospitals start to really fill up," he said. "Frankly, the better strategy is to put them in place now."
The UK-wide seven-day rate currently stands at 125.7 cases per 100,000 people, up from 63.8 per 100,000 a week ago.
More than 58,000 deaths involving Covid-19 have now been registered in the UK.
There were 478 people admitted to hospital in England with Covid-19 on Sunday, the highest daily total in four months, and up from 241 a week earlier.
There were 2,783 patients in hospital with Covid-19 on Tuesday, an increase from 1,881 a week earlier, and 349 on ventilators, compared with 259 seven days ago.


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Sergio Romero's wife elaborates on criticism of Man Utd over failed transfer

Sergio Romero 's wife has elaborated on her criticism of Manchester United after her husband failed to move away on deadline day .
With Dean Henderson returning from his loan at Sheffield United , the Argentine has further been pushed down the pecking order at Old Trafford .
Everton tried to sign the former Monaco star to provide competition for Jordan Pickford .
But the Toffees could not agree a deal with United , much to Eliana Guercio 's disdain .
She took aim at the Red Devils on Instagram , slamming their lack of professionalism during the transfer window @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detail over her social media outburst , insisting her husband deserved to be shown more respect .
She said : `` It was a very stressful day for us .
I have to say that I am sad , very sad on one and happy on the other hand .
`` I am sad because Sergio deserved the opportunity to go to another club , he has shown what he can do and he worked every day .
Get the latest Man Utd transfer news straight into your inbox !
Manchester United are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the top .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already brought in Donny van de Beek but Jadon Sancho remains Manchester United 's number one target .
And you can keep track of their journey by signing up for the brilliant new Mirror Football newsletter !
From the latest transfer news to the agenda-setting stories , get it all in your email inbox .
Signing up is simple .
Put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link .
`` Right now he is training , just like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was in Argentina because he is a professional .
`` He loves what he does and gives his all every day .
`` I have known ever since I met about his passion and his work and his family obviously .
`` It is a very sad day because he desired the chance to go to another club .
`` He has worked hard every day for this , because he gives his all for United and I think that his chances of playing for United have gone down .
What do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Have your say below .
`` This doesn ’ t sound right to me .
It doesn ’ t appear honest or professional or serious that they have to let him go .
`` I am very sad because of this .
`` On the other hand I am happy because all of the fans of the club have shown all their amazing support . ''

Everton tried desperately to sign Sergio Romero on deadline day only for a transfer away from Manchester United to be blocked and the goalie's wife, Eliana Guercio, was not happy
Sergio Romero's wife elaborates on criticism of Man Utd over failed transfer away
Sergio Romero's wife has elaborated on her criticism of Manchester United after her husband failed to move away on deadline day.
With Dean Henderson returning from his loan at Sheffield United, the Argentine has further been pushed down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
David de Gea remains first-choice under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, leaving Romero in limbo.
Everton tried to sign the former Monaco star to provide competition for Jordan Pickford.
But the Toffees could not agree a deal with United, much to Eliana Guercio's disdain.
She took aim at the Red Devils on Instagram, slamming their lack of professionalism during the transfer window.
Image: PA) PA)
And she has gone into more detail over her social media outburst, insisting her husband deserved to be shown more respect.
She said: "It was a very stressful day for us. I have to say that I am sad, very sad on one and happy on the other hand.
"I am sad because Sergio deserved the opportunity to go to another club, he has shown what he can do and he worked every day.
Get the latest Man Utd news straight into your inbox! There's never a dull moment at Manchester United, and as the second half of the season mounts, it's more chaotic than ever. Keeping track of it all has never been simpler. Get all the latest transfer news and agenda-setting stories delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for the Mirror Football newsletter! Just put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link.
"Right now he is training, just like he has been every day since he was in Argentina because he is a professional.
"He loves what he does and gives his all every day.
"I have known ever since I met about his passion and his work and his family obviously.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
"It is a very sad day because he desired the chance to go to another club.
"He has worked hard every day for this, because he gives his all for United and I think that his chances of playing for United have gone down.
What do you make of United's summer transfer business? Have your say below.
"This doesn’t sound right to me. It doesn’t appear honest or professional or serious that they have to let him go.
"I am very sad because of this.
"On the other hand I am happy because all of the fans of the club have shown all their amazing support."


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Eddie Van Halen's brave cancer battle that he hid for years while performing

Eddie Van Halen has died at the age of 65 .
According to TMZ , the legendary guitarist passed away in hospital on Tuesday after his throat cancer spread to his other organs .
Eddie fought a long battle with the disease for over ten years and managed to keep his illness a secret from fans as he continued to work and perform .
Signs that the rocker was struggling were only revealed when he was unable to stick to his gruelling shedule .
Eddie , who has been hailed as one of the best musicians of his generation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2015 - years after his initial diagnosis .
He was first treated for tongue cancer in 2000 with surgeons forced to remove a third of his tongue .
The op was a success with Eddie declared cancer-free in 2002 but sadly , the disease returned some years later .
Eddie remained hopeful , telling Billboard that he had even given up smoking - having picked up the habit at the tender age of 12 .
However , the guitarist had always been adamant that cigarettes had not been the cause of his ill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carrying a metal guitar plectrum around in his mouth had caused the cancer .
`` I used metal picks – they ’ re brass and copper – which I always held in my mouth , in the exact place where I got the tongue cancer , '' he said .
`` Plus , I basically live in a recording studio that ’ s filled with electromagnetic energy .
So that ’ s one theory .
I mean , I was smoking and doing a lot of drugs and a lot of everything .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lungs are totally clear .
This is just my own theory , but the doctors say it ’ s possible.
” In 2012 Eddie underwent emergency surgery after suffering with a severe bout of digestive disorder Diverticulitis .
The news had to be shared with fans as Eddie had been due to take to the stage in Japan .
A statement explaining the circumstances at the time read : `` Eddie Van Halen underwent an emergency surgery for a severe bout of Diverticulitis .
No further surgeries are needed and a full recovery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Halen ’ s scheduled November 2012 tour of Japan is currently being rescheduled and the band looks forward to seeing and playing for their fans in 2013 . '
Then in 2019 , it was revealed that Eddie had been secretly battling throat cancer for five years .
TMZ reported that the rocker was jetting back and forth to Germany for regular radiation to treat it .
It came to light when he was hospitalised after suffering with severe abdominal pain when complications arose from the prescription drugs he took to treat the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed home , Eddie began rehearsing music with his son Wolfgang , who joined Van Halen as their bassist .
The 80s rock group last performed together at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles in October 2015 .

The Van Halen rocker has died at the age of 65, prompting an outpouring of grief from fellow musicians and fans around the world
Eddie Van Halen has died at the age of 65.
According to TMZ, the legendary guitarist passed away in hospital on Tuesday after his throat cancer spread to his other organs.
Eddie fought a long battle with the disease for over ten years and managed to keep his illness a secret from fans as he continued to work and perform.
Signs that the rocker was struggling were only revealed when he was unable to stick to his gruelling shedule.
Eddie, who has been hailed as one of the best musicians of his generation, first opened up about his cancer in 2015 - years after his initial diagnosis.
Image: Getty Images North America) Getty Images North America) Image: WireImage) WireImage)
He was first treated for tongue cancer in 2000 with surgeons forced to remove a third of his tongue.
The op was a success with Eddie declared cancer-free in 2002 but sadly, the disease returned some years later.
Eddie remained hopeful, telling Billboard that he had even given up smoking - having picked up the habit at the tender age of 12.
However, the guitarist had always been adamant that cigarettes had not been the cause of his ill health and instead believed his habit of carrying a metal guitar plectrum around in his mouth had caused the cancer.
"I used metal picks – they’re brass and copper – which I always held in my mouth, in the exact place where I got the tongue cancer," he said.
"Plus, I basically live in a recording studio that’s filled with electromagnetic energy. So that’s one theory. I mean, I was smoking and doing a lot of drugs and a lot of everything. But at the same time, my lungs are totally clear. This is just my own theory, but the doctors say it’s possible.”
Image: FilmMagic) FilmMagic)
In 2012 Eddie underwent emergency surgery after suffering with a severe bout of digestive disorder Diverticulitis.
The news had to be shared with fans as Eddie had been due to take to the stage in Japan.
A statement explaining the circumstances at the time read: "Eddie Van Halen underwent an emergency surgery for a severe bout of Diverticulitis. No further surgeries are needed and a full recovery is expected within 4-6 months. Van Halen’s scheduled November 2012 tour of Japan is currently being rescheduled and the band looks forward to seeing and playing for their fans in 2013.'
Image: GC Images) GC Images)
Then in 2019, it was revealed that Eddie had been secretly battling throat cancer for five years.
TMZ reported that the rocker was jetting back and forth to Germany for regular radiation to treat it.
It came to light when he was hospitalised after suffering with severe abdominal pain when complications arose from the prescription drugs he took to treat the disease.
As soon as he was allowed home, Eddie began rehearsing music with his son Wolfgang, who joined Van Halen as their bassist.
The 80s rock group last performed together at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles in October 2015.


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Solskjaer has made plan clear as Axel Tuanzebe returns to Man Utd training

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already laid out a clear plan for Axel Tuanzebe to get into the first-team at Manchester United .
It comes amid the news that the centre-back has returned to first-team training .
And he could not have done so at a better time , with United facing an inquest into their shoddy defending following a 6-1 loss to Tottenham .
Question marks had grown over Victor Lindelof that saw him dropped for Eric Bailly on Sunday .
But the Ivorian was erratic , while Harry Maguire could be accused of being at fault for three goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going into the final day of the transfer window .
A left-back was signed instead , in the form of Alex Telles , as well as experienced striker Edinson Cavani .
But the timely return of Tuanzebe to training could provide Solskjaer with a solution to his backline puzzle .
Last year , the former England Under-21 international impressed during his pre-season .
Get the latest Man Utd transfer news straight into your inbox !
Manchester United are looking to plot their path back to the top .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jadon Sancho remains Manchester United 's number one target .
And you can keep track of their journey by signing up for the brilliant new Mirror Football newsletter !
From the latest transfer news to the agenda-setting stories , get it all in your email inbox .
Signing up is simple .
Put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link .
“ He has got a future at United , yes , of course he has , ” the United boss said at the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the future of this club.
” However , what was earmarked as a breakthrough campaign at Old Trafford became a nightmare year .
After featuring 10 times , an injury suffered at Christmas time which saw his season come to an end .
But after 10 months out , the Telegraph report that the defender has returned to first-team training .
And he could even make an appearance when United next kick-off in two weeks time .
The Red Devils face Newcastle next after the international break at St. James ' Park .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is facing unprecedented scrutiny , with reports indicating that United chiefs are sounding Mauricio Pochettino out as a potential replacement should results go further south .
As for the current defensive options at the Norweigan 's disposal , Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones remain at the club after failing to land moves away in the transfer window .
The duo are just two of several players the Red Devils could not offload , while another youth prospect in Teden Mengi has been touted for stardom .

MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS: DONE DEALS FROM THE SUMMER WINDOW
MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS: DONE DEALS FROM THE SUMMER WINDOW
The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
Manchester United have welcomed back Axel Tuanzebe to first-team training after a lengthy injury layoff and the young defender has previously been touted for big things at Old Trafford
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made plan clear as Axel Tuanzebe returns to Man Utd training
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already laid out a clear plan for Axel Tuanzebe to get into the first-team at Manchester United.
It comes amid the news that the centre-back has returned to first-team training.
And he could not have done so at a better time, with United facing an inquest into their shoddy defending following a 6-1 loss to Tottenham.
Question marks had grown over Victor Lindelof that saw him dropped for Eric Bailly on Sunday.
But the Ivorian was erratic, while Harry Maguire could be accused of being at fault for three goals.
Fans had begged for a centre-back going into the final day of the transfer window.
Image: Pool via REUTERS) Pool via REUTERS)
A left-back was signed instead, in the form of Alex Telles, as well as experienced striker Edinson Cavani.
But the timely return of Tuanzebe to training could provide Solskjaer with a solution to his backline puzzle.
Last year, the former England Under-21 international impressed during his pre-season.
Get the latest Man Utd news straight into your inbox! There's never a dull moment at Manchester United, and as the second half of the season mounts, it's more chaotic than ever. Keeping track of it all has never been simpler. Get all the latest transfer news and agenda-setting stories delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for the Mirror Football newsletter! Just put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link.
“He has got a future at United, yes, of course he has,” the United boss said at the time. “Axel is going to be the future of this club.”
However, what was earmarked as a breakthrough campaign at Old Trafford became a nightmare year.
After featuring 10 times, an injury suffered at Christmas time which saw his season come to an end.
But after 10 months out, the Telegraph report that the defender has returned to first-team training.
And he could even make an appearance when United next kick-off in two weeks time.
The Red Devils face Newcastle next after the international break at St. James' Park.
It comes during a time where Solskjaer is facing unprecedented scrutiny, with reports indicating that United chiefs are sounding Mauricio Pochettino out as a potential replacement should results go further south.
As for the current defensive options at the Norweigan's disposal, Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones remain at the club after failing to land moves away in the transfer window.
The duo are just two of several players the Red Devils could not offload, while another youth prospect in Teden Mengi has been touted for stardom.


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Donald Trump speechwriter Stephen Miller tests positive for Covid-19

Donald Trump 's speechwriter Stephen Miller has tested positive for coronavirus , the White House has confirmed .
Miller has been working remotely for five days , since being seen in close quarters with top aide Hope Hicks , who it was revealed had tested positive on Thursday .
He 's thought to be the 14th member of the administration to test positive for the disease , following Hicks ' positive test .
Yesterday Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany tested positive , and since then four members of her press office team have also been diagnosed with Covid-19 .
Miller , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump 's team , is an immigration hardliner and has been described as being on the `` hard right '' .
He 's also understood to have played a key role in Trump 's decision to fire FBI director James Comey in May 2017 .
Perhaps most famously , Miller is credited with having written many of Trump 's speeches - including his inaugural address , which included the phrases `` America First '' and `` American Carnage '' , which became touchstones of his early Presidency .
Miller 's wife , Katie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vice President Mike Pence , tested positive for the virus in May .
Social networks today cracked down on misinformation about coronavirus , targeting a Donald Trump post claiming Covid-19 is less deadly than flu .
A Facebook post , which was removed under the social network 's anti-misinformation rules , claimed : `` Flu season is coming up !
Many people every year , sometimes over 100,000 , and despite the Vaccine , die from Flu .
`` Are we going to close down our country ?
No , we have learned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are learning to live with Covid , in most populations far less lethal !
!
! ''
Twitter added a note to the same post on their platform noting that it was misinformation .
Among reported COVID-19 cases in the US , nearly 6 % have died - some 210,000 people this year .
In comparison , the death rate of seasonal Flu is around 0.1 % .
Covid-19 has killed more Americans than the last five years ' worth of Flu .

He's thought to be the 14th member of the Trump administration to test positive for the disease - following the President himself last week
Donald Trump's speechwriter Stephen Miller has tested positive for coronavirus, the White House has confirmed.
Miller has been working remotely for five days, since being seen in close quarters with top aide Hope Hicks, who it was revealed had tested positive on Thursday.
He's thought to be the 14th member of the administration to test positive for the disease, following Hicks' positive test.
Yesterday Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany tested positive, and since then four members of her press office team have also been diagnosed with Covid-19.
Miller, a key adviser and driving force in Trump's team, is an immigration hardliner and has been described as being on the "hard right".
He's also understood to have played a key role in Trump's decision to fire FBI director James Comey in May 2017.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
Perhaps most famously, Miller is credited with having written many of Trump's speeches - including his inaugural address, which included the phrases "America First" and "American Carnage", which became touchstones of his early Presidency.
Miller's wife, Katie Miller, who is a spokeswoman for Vice President Mike Pence, tested positive for the virus in May.
Social networks today cracked down on misinformation about coronavirus, targeting a Donald Trump post claiming Covid-19 is less deadly than flu.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
A Facebook post, which was removed under the social network's anti-misinformation rules, claimed: "Flu season is coming up! Many people every year, sometimes over 100,000, and despite the Vaccine, die from Flu.
"Are we going to close down our country? No, we have learned to live with it, just like we are learning to live with Covid, in most populations far less lethal!!!"
Twitter added a note to the same post on their platform noting that it was misinformation.
Among reported COVID-19 cases in the US, nearly 6% have died - some 210,000 people this year.
In comparison, the death rate of seasonal Flu is around 0.1%. Covid-19 has killed more Americans than the last five years' worth of Flu.


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--The Gag Vault - 7th October 2020

The Gag Vault - 7th October 2020

When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters .
Sometimes they ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ newsletters or services we offer .
Our explains more about how we use your data @ @ @ @ @ You can unsubscribe at any time .

Get your daily dose of 'The Gag Vault'
MORE ON
See our Privacy Notice
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get email updates with the day's biggest stories
Story Saved
You can find this story in My Bookmarks.
Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Perishers - 7th October 2020

Perishers - 7th October 2020

Perishers - 7th October 2020 Perishers originally ran from 1959 to 2006. The strip is still so popular today that we decided to reprint the best of the strips by Maurice Dodd and Dennis Collins
Perishers originally ran from 1959 to 2006. The strip is still so popular today that we decided to reprint the best of the strips by Maurice Dodd and Dennis Collins
Most Read
Don't Miss
MORE ON
Get email updates with the day's biggest stories Sign up Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our Privacy Notice


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Andy Capp - 7th October 2020

Andy Capp - 7th October 2020

Andy Capp - 7th October 2020 Andy Capp has been a favourite part of the Daily Mirror since 1957. Enjoy the adventures of Andy Capp and wife Flo every day
Andy Capp has been a favourite part of the Daily Mirror since 1957. Enjoy the adventures of Andy Capp and wife Flo every day. See previous Andy Capp's or visit his Facebook page.
MORE ON
Get email updates with the day's biggest stories Sign up Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our Privacy Notice


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Woman loses four babies as her 'body attacks the one thing it should protect'

A woman who lost three babies before they were born and one shortly after due to a rare condition has not lost hope of having a baby .
Clare Inskip and her partner Steven Rooney , 42 , are determined to raise a child .
In the past eight years they have been pregnant four times , with only one baby - Jacob - being born alive , the Liverpool Echo reported .
Clare , 37 , from Liverpool , first fell pregnant in 2012 , only to suffer a miscarriage .
She said : `` Back in 2012 my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was one of those really early miscarriages , and we just put it down to one of those things .
`` Then we fell pregnant again at the end of 2012 and we got to 19 weeks and we went for the scan and I just knew straight away something was wrong .
`` The sonographer and said ' I 'm so sorry , there 's no heartbeat ' . ''
After waiting six months to get results back , the couple were given the news that their baby had Gestational Alloimmune @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it could affect future pregnancies and there was no medication that could help .
`` It does n't affect me , but when I 'm pregnant , this is what I 'm led to believe , my body produces an antibody which then attacks the baby 's antigen in the baby 's liver , '' Clare said .
`` So it sees something in the baby 's liver it thinks is a threat .
`` When we were told all that we did n't really know much about it and there was nothing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I was honestly heartbroken , my body ( was ) attacking the one thing that it ’ s designed to protect . ''
Clare did some research and found a doctor in America who had been doing work into the condition .
After speaking for a while the doctor sent over some information to the city 's Women 's Hospital , who referred her to a consultant in the foetal medicine unit .
They helped to get a pregnancy plan in place that could stop the antibodies affecting the baby .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clare started treatment from 14 weeks of her pregnancy .
She said : `` We lost in 2013 and we were pregnant again in 2014 .
I got to 14 weeks , had this treatment , and I had a really , really bad reaction to it .
`` I was hospitalised overnight and I just knew something was wrong .
I just knew something was n't right .
`` I went to the Womens ' Hospital at 16 weeks and they could n't hear a heartbeat . ''
At the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this times things were different .
`` This pregnancy was completely different to all the others , '' she said .
`` It was a lot more scary , this time I started bleeding from around 12 weeks . ''
Clare and Steven 's baby , Jacob , was born at 25 weeks after the bleeding gradually got heavier .
Clare said Jacob `` clung on so much '' and was a `` little fighter '' , but he had some health difficulties because he was born prematurely .
After eight months Jacob @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` He just could n't get off the ventilator , the pressures he had to have on the ventilator , I could just see he was struggling .
`` And I always thought as long as he 's getting better and as long as it 's us suffering , I can deal with that .
`` But when I knew he was struggling and he 'd had enough , we had a conversation with some of the consultants in there and they thought the best thing was to turn the machine off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and his sedation was so high .
`` He just had too many obstacles to overcome .
We got all the family in to meet him and say their goodbyes .
`` He passed away in May 2016 , he was eight-months-old .
`` He was obviously not a typical eight month old baby , because he was premature , so we did n't get to see him smile or hear his first word , but he still had such a character .
`` He was just really funny .
`` He was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just know he would have been so funny as a little toddler . ''
Now Clare and Steven are looking to find a surrogate and are fundraising to reach their £25,000 target .
The money will be spent on Surrogacy UK Agency costs , freezing of sperm and eggs , scans and IVF .
Even though one can not pay a surrogate , except for their reasonable expenses , in the UK , the couple thought journey would be too expensive .
But after encouragement from friends the couple started a gofundme page @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents to speak about the grief they feel .
She said : `` To deal with all my loss I 've had so much support from close friends .
`` My mum was fantastic , my sister and six friends were my absolute world .
`` They 've picked me up and were there for me to hold me up the whole way .
`` Speaking about it and getting the support from the people around you ( is what I 'd say to parents ) .
`` Bottling it up and keeping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing you can do .
Anywhere you can get support from , get it .
`` Just keep going and do n't give up hope .
`` We 've hit our walls and we 've been through hell and back , and nothing will ever replace our babies , but to have a family in the end we know it 's just something that we 've always wanted and we could n't give up on . ''

Clare Inskip and her partner Steven Rooney have not given up hope of having a health child, despite eight years in which they have lost three unborn babies and one at eight months old
Woman loses four babies as her 'body attacks the one thing it should protect'
A woman who lost three babies before they were born and one shortly after due to a rare condition has not lost hope of having a baby.
Clare Inskip and her partner Steven Rooney, 42, are determined to raise a child.
In the past eight years they have been pregnant four times, with only one baby - Jacob - being born alive, the Liverpool Echo reported.
Clare, 37, from Liverpool, first fell pregnant in 2012, only to suffer a miscarriage.
She said: "Back in 2012 my partner Steven and I got pregnant and it was one of those really early miscarriages, and we just put it down to one of those things.
Image: Clare Inskip) Clare Inskip)
"Then we fell pregnant again at the end of 2012 and we got to 19 weeks and we went for the scan and I just knew straight away something was wrong.
"The sonographer and said 'I'm so sorry, there's no heartbeat'."
After waiting six months to get results back, the couple were given the news that their baby had Gestational Alloimmune Liver disease.
They were told that it could affect future pregnancies and there was no medication that could help.
"It doesn't affect me, but when I'm pregnant, this is what I'm led to believe, my body produces an antibody which then attacks the baby's antigen in the baby's liver," Clare said.
Image: Clare Inskip) Clare Inskip)
"So it sees something in the baby's liver it thinks is a threat.
"When we were told all that we didn't really know much about it and there was nothing we could do."
She added: "I was honestly heartbroken, my body (was) attacking the one thing that it’s designed to protect."
Clare did some research and found a doctor in America who had been doing work into the condition.
After speaking for a while the doctor sent over some information to the city's Women's Hospital, who referred her to a consultant in the foetal medicine unit.
They helped to get a pregnancy plan in place that could stop the antibodies affecting the baby.
Image: Clare Inskip) Clare Inskip)
After becoming pregnant again in 2014, Clare started treatment from 14 weeks of her pregnancy.
She said: "We lost in 2013 and we were pregnant again in 2014. I got to 14 weeks, had this treatment, and I had a really, really bad reaction to it.
"I was hospitalised overnight and I just knew something was wrong. I just knew something wasn't right.
"I went to the Womens' Hospital at 16 weeks and they couldn't hear a heartbeat."
At the end of 2015 Clare fell pregnant again, but this times things were different.
"This pregnancy was completely different to all the others," she said.
"It was a lot more scary, this time I started bleeding from around 12 weeks."
Clare and Steven's baby, Jacob, was born at 25 weeks after the bleeding gradually got heavier.
Clare said Jacob "clung on so much" and was a "little fighter", but he had some health difficulties because he was born prematurely.
Image: Clare Inskip) Clare Inskip)
After eight months Jacob died in May 2016.
Clare said: "He just couldn't get off the ventilator, the pressures he had to have on the ventilator, I could just see he was struggling.
"And I always thought as long as he's getting better and as long as it's us suffering, I can deal with that.
"But when I knew he was struggling and he'd had enough, we had a conversation with some of the consultants in there and they thought the best thing was to turn the machine off because his lungs were damaged so much and his sedation was so high.
"He just had too many obstacles to overcome. We got all the family in to meet him and say their goodbyes.
Image: Clare Inskip) Clare Inskip)
"He passed away in May 2016, he was eight-months-old.
"He was obviously not a typical eight month old baby, because he was premature, so we didn't get to see him smile or hear his first word, but he still had such a character.
"He was just really funny.
"He was just a really funny character and I just know he would have been so funny as a little toddler."
Now Clare and Steven are looking to find a surrogate and are fundraising to reach their £25,000 target.
The money will be spent on Surrogacy UK Agency costs, freezing of sperm and eggs, scans and IVF.
Image: Clare Inskip) Clare Inskip)
Even though one cannot pay a surrogate, except for their reasonable expenses, in the UK, the couple thought journey would be too expensive.
But after encouragement from friends the couple started a gofundme page.
Clare has also urged other bereaved parents to speak about the grief they feel.
She said: "To deal with all my loss I've had so much support from close friends.
"My mum was fantastic, my sister and six friends were my absolute world.
"They've picked me up and were there for me to hold me up the whole way.
"Speaking about it and getting the support from the people around you (is what I'd say to parents).
"Bottling it up and keeping it all in is just the worst thing you can do. Anywhere you can get support from, get it.
"Just keep going and don't give up hope.
"We've hit our walls and we've been through hell and back, and nothing will ever replace our babies, but to have a family in the end we know it's just something that we've always wanted and we couldn't give up on."


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Strictly celebs undergo glitzy makeovers ahead of new series

This year ’ s Strictly Come Dancing contestants are the most competitive bunch ever to take to the ballroom – with eight out of 12 declaring they are “ in it to win it ” .
As we get the first glimpse of them in their costumes , it seems that confidence levels aren ’ t necessarily pegged to ability , with both boxer Nicola Adams and ex-politician Jacqui Smith admitting they can ’ t actually dance .
Despite this , Adams said : “ My competitive nature is coming back out again as soon as you put a title @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything , I want to win.
” And Smith agreed : “ I ’ m a very , very competitive person .
I hardly ever do anything unless I think I ’ m going to be able to win.
” Radio 1 DJ Clara said that coming first would be “ an absolute dream ” while Caroline Quentin admitted there was little point taking part unless you wanted to do well .
Jamie Laing , who was knocked out with an injury last year , is “ going for the win ” while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % , I really want to win it ” .
EastEnders ’ Maisie Smith reckons Hrvy is her “ biggest rival ” in the battle to lift the trophy while sportsman Jason Bell admitted : “ Obviously you want to make it to the end.
” But which of them will actually make it through the full nine weeks of competition ?
It ’ s all in the hands of the viewing ( and voting ) public ... Love celebrity gossip ?
Sign up for the Mirror 's daily newsletter for all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is thrilled to be the first person in a same-sex pairing on the show .
“ It means a lot to me .
I think it ’ s a brilliant step in the right direction especially on the diversity side of things .
And women actually dance with women all the time on the professional circuit so I guess it ’ s just showing people that it can be done.
” She said that the first person she told was girlfriend Ella , whose reaction was mixed .
“ The first thing she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t dance ’ , then she said good luck .
“ I ’ m not the best dancer so I wanted to see how I will do .
All my family have said I can ’ t dance , but I can learn .
I ’ m going out there to prove them wrong.
” The actress has just finished a film called Father Christmas is Back , and one of her co-stars is a huge Strictly fan .
“ I ’ ve been working with Elizabeth Hurley and she ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve ever met .
She has told me so much information about the programme that I didn ’ t know , past years and winners , what ’ s happened and how to go about it .
She and her son Damien have been extraordinarily supportive.
” The Men Behaving Badly star said she was overwhelmed by the support she had already received .
“ I have never , in 50 years of working in showbiz , had a reaction like it .
In my local grocer , I got a round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some fruit !
” She laughed that her biggest competition would be “ anyone under 60 ” .
The former politician says her biggest challenge will be “ the small issue of not really knowing how to dance ” as well as “ overcoming my nerves , feeling confident , wearing something slightly skimpier than I would usually wear.
” She is pleased to be taking part alongside Nicola Adams .
“ It ’ s really exciting that there ’ s going to be the first same-sex couple with Nicola and her partner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brilliant thing.
” And she ’ s had a bit of expert advice from a pal .
“ I ’ ve been lucky that Ed Balls has talked to me and give me some advice .
I ’ m not sure that I would ever be able to match his Gangnam Style - but I always love the look of a tango.
” The former marine turned TV presenter suffered terrible injuries from an IED while serving in Afghanistan .
“ I got smashed to pieces , ” he says .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep more or less all my body parts except for a couple of fingers , but none of the things work the way they should .
I ’ m hoping that there are not many better forms of exercise and activity than dancing for improving your overall body posture , fitness and mobility.
” He is most excited about the waltz .
“ In Afghanistan , I was learning how to dance for my brother ’ s wedding .
I was meant to come back midway through my tour and I wanted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ One of the guys had been a semi-professional dancer before he joined the marines .
So we started doing the waltz and then both of us got blown up unfortunately , in the same incident .
That was the one dance he had begun to teach me , so it feels like a good place to start.
” The comedian says he ’ s not fazed by the costumes .
“ Over the years , I ’ ve worn all manner of costumes , either for stage or on TV shows .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , put spangly suits on - it ’ s all part of the process.
” He says he ’ s always loved dance and hopes his musical knowledge will help his rhythm .
“ When I was a kid , there was a dance academy across the road from my house .
I went and had some lessons .
As I was young , I didn ’ t pursue it and I ’ ve always regretted that because it ’ s a lovely thing to do.
” Bill says he should make a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ very patient ” professional partner .
“ I ’ m a very quick learner but I might make a few mistakes along the way.
” The Radio 1 DJ is convinced she ’ ll be far better at the Latin dances .
“ Ballroom scares the hell out of me , because I only accepted about a year or two ago that I ’ m quite a clumsy person .
I think there isn ’ t a week where I don ’ t bang my elbow on the door or step on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something .
For me to be graceful takes a lot of concentration.
” She says the social media reaction to her taking part has been heart-warming .
“ It ’ s sort of reminded me that sincerely lovely strangers still exist.
” Costume-wise , she ’ s going to go for it .
“ I only got into wearing sequins a few years ago .
My mate is a designer and lent me this sequinned red dress and I was like , “ Oh , right , now I get what all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ singer is a genuine fan of another contestant .
“ I went to The Wanted ’ s last concert when I was younger - I was a big fan , so it ’ s really cool that Max George is doing it.
” He is aiming high .
“ Obviously it ’ s the taking part that counts but I think everyone wants to go for gold !
I ’ m going to put my heart into it.
” He reckons Maisie Smith is his main competition .
“ I saw her on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s really good .
I DM ’ d her and said it was very average - just so she wasn ’ t too big-headed about it.
” His grandmother is thrilled to bits that he ’ s on the show .
“ My nan is buzzing , she left me countless voicemails just saying how excited she is.
” The Made in Chelsea favourite is back , and this time he ’ ll be doing everything he can to avoid injury .
“ I really have to be careful .
I came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most people , I hate failing at stuff .
If something happens then the Strictly curse isn ’ t about me sleeping with someone else , it ’ s definitely about my foot !
” He is hoping to impress his mother by being on the show .
“ It makes my mum proud that I ’ m doing it and I ’ ve never made her proud before , so that is literally one of the big reasons .
But she ’ s not necessarily backing him to go all the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ re awful !
’ She tells me straight out , ‘ You ’ re not going to win it , there ’ s no way.
’ She says I ’ ll be out about week three.
” The American footballer says the first person he told about doing doing the show was his ex , Girls Aloud ’ s Nadine Coyle , with whom he has a daughter .
“ When I told her , she just was like , are you sure your back can do it ?
I talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for dance routines and stuff like that , and how long does it take and what do you need to do ?
She ’ s an expert , so I ’ m lucky because of that.
” He says his sporting instincts will kick in .
“ I ’ m competitive .
The longer you ’ re on the show , the more of an experience you get and I don ’ t want that to end.
” One of his favourite winners was Ore Oduba .
“ I love Ore .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really young then .
He looked like he was having so much fun , he was just flying all over the place .
The singer admits he has no idea how he ’ ll get on .
“ I don ’ t really know anything about different dances .
From what people have told me apparently the cha cha can be a bit of a pain .
I have no idea what that is by the way , I might love it.
” In terms of winning he laughs : “ If I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wouldn ’ t and that ’ s the truth .
If I can get past week one , then I ’ ll do as well as I can to get past week two.
” He says girlfriend Stacey Giggs didn ’ t believe he was doing it at first .
“ She laughed and then laughed a bit more , ” he reveals .
“ I think she thought I was joking .
She gets a break from me for a few weeks so she ’ s probably delighted about that.
” He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McGuiness who won in 2015 .
“ Jay is an amazing dancer he always has been .
I know its going to be a massive challenge for me.
” The EastEnders actress says her professional dance partner is going to have his work cut out .
“ They need to be able to put up with my craziness – I ’ m looking for someone that can handle me , ” she said .
She can ’ t wait for all the costumes and make-up .
“ That is genuinely what I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being glammed up every single week .
I can ’ t wait for them to work that magic on me.
” Dancewise , she says : she is most looking forward to Street , “ because that ’ s the only one that I know that I ’ ll be able to do ” .
Maisie is planning on plenty of help from her family .
“ In lockdown , me and my mum have been learning a hell of a lot of dancing on social media .
We ’ re a pretty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of musical theatre.
” The Good Morning Britain political editor says she is “ the least competitive person you ’ ve ever met ” and claims to have never played competitive sport in her life .
Her previous dance experience amounts to childhood ballet classes , but she wasn ’ t a natural .
“ I did very proudly do grade one ballet when I was about seven , but my dance career ended after my teacher put in my report card , ‘ Ranvir is enthusiastic but sadly lands like an elephant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking good in the costumes .
“ I just hope they ’ ve got really , really , really strong support underwear .
As long as they can hold it all in and make me look as streamlined as is magically possible - then I ’ ll be happy.
” Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 3303

The 12 celebs have been pictured for the first time in their glamorous ballroom attire with the exception of HRVY who continues to self isolate after testing positive for corona
This year’s Strictly Come Dancing contestants are the most competitive bunch ever to take to the ballroom – with eight out of 12 declaring they are “in it to win it”.
As we get the first glimpse of them in their costumes, it seems that confidence levels aren’t necessarily pegged to ability, with both boxer Nicola Adams and ex-politician Jacqui Smith admitting they can’t actually dance.
Despite this, Adams said: “My competitive nature is coming back out again as soon as you put a title, any title on the line for anything, I want to win.”
And Smith agreed: “I’m a very, very competitive person. I hardly ever do anything unless I think I’m going to be able to win.”
Radio 1 DJ Clara said that coming first would be “an absolute dream” while Caroline Quentin admitted there was little point taking part unless you wanted to do well.
Jamie Laing, who was knocked out with an injury last year, is “going for the win” while YouTuber Hrvy confessed: “Oh 100%, I really want to win it”.
EastEnders’ Maisie Smith reckons Hrvy is her “biggest rival” in the battle to lift the trophy while sportsman Jason Bell admitted: “Obviously you want to make it to the end.”
But which of them will actually make it through the full nine weeks of competition? It’s all in the hands of the viewing (and voting) public...
Nicola Adams, 37
Image: PA) PA)
Love celebrity gossip? Sign up for the Mirror's daily newsletter for all the juiciest news
The former boxer says she is thrilled to be the first person in a same-sex pairing on the show. “It means a lot to me. I think it’s a brilliant step in the right direction especially on the diversity side of things. And women actually dance with women all the time on the professional circuit so I guess it’s just showing people that it can be done.”
She said that the first person she told was girlfriend Ella, whose reaction was mixed. “The first thing she said to me was ‘you can’t dance’, then she said good luck.
“I’m not the best dancer so I wanted to see how I will do. All my family have said I can’t dance, but I can learn. I’m going out there to prove them wrong.”
Caroline Quentin, 60
Image: PA) PA)
The actress has just finished a film called Father Christmas is Back, and one of her co-stars is a huge Strictly fan. “I’ve been working with Elizabeth Hurley and she’s more excited about it than anyone I’ve ever met.
She has told me so much information about the programme that I didn’t know, past years and winners, what’s happened and how to go about it. She and her son Damien have been extraordinarily supportive.”
The Men Behaving Badly star said she was overwhelmed by the support she had already received. “I have never, in 50 years of working in showbiz, had a reaction like it. In my local grocer, I got a round of applause when I went to buy some fruit!”
She laughed that her biggest competition would be “anyone under 60”.
Jacqui Smith, 57
Image: PA) PA)
The former politician says her biggest challenge will be “the small issue of not really knowing how to dance” as well as “overcoming my nerves,
feeling confident, wearing something slightly skimpier than I would usually wear.”
She is pleased to be taking part alongside Nicola Adams. “It’s really exciting that there’s going to be the first same-sex couple with Nicola and her partner. I think that’s a brilliant thing.”
And she’s had a bit of expert advice from a pal. “I’ve been lucky that Ed Balls has talked to me and give me some advice. I’m not sure that I would ever be able to match his Gangnam Style - but I always love the look of a tango.”
JJ Chalmers, 33
Image: PA) PA)
The former marine turned TV presenter suffered terrible injuries from an IED while serving in Afghanistan.
“I got smashed to pieces,” he says. “I was very fortunate to be able to keep more or less all my body parts except for a couple of fingers, but none of the things work the way they should. I’m hoping that there are not many better forms of exercise and activity than dancing for improving your overall body posture, fitness and mobility.”
He is most excited about the waltz. “In Afghanistan, I was learning how to dance for my brother’s wedding. I was meant to come back midway through my tour and I wanted to surprise my girlfriend, now wife.
“One of the guys had been a semi-professional dancer before he joined the marines. So we started doing the waltz and then both of us got blown up unfortunately, in the same incident. That was the one dance he had begun to teach me, so it feels like a good place to start.”
Bill Bailey, 55
Image: PA) PA)
The comedian says he’s not fazed by the costumes. “Over the years, I’ve worn all manner of costumes, either for stage or on TV shows. I’ve dressed up as wizards, put spangly suits on - it’s all part of the process.”
He says he’s always loved dance and hopes his musical knowledge will help his rhythm. “When I was a kid, there was a dance academy across the road from my house. I went and had some lessons. As I was young, I didn’t pursue it and I’ve always regretted that because it’s a lovely thing to do.”
Bill says he should make a good student but is hoping for a “very patient”
professional partner. “I’m a very quick learner but I might make a few mistakes along the way.”
Clara Amfo, 36
Image: PA) PA)
The Radio 1 DJ is convinced she’ll be far better at the Latin dances.
“Ballroom scares the hell out of me, because I only accepted about a year or two ago that I’m quite a clumsy person. I think there isn’t a week where I don’t bang my elbow on the door or step on a plug or hit my knee on something. For me to be graceful takes a lot of concentration.”
She says the social media reaction to her taking part has been heart-warming. “It’s sort of reminded me that sincerely lovely strangers still exist.”
Costume-wise, she’s going to go for it. “I only got into wearing sequins a few years ago. My mate is a designer and lent me this sequinned red dress and I was like, “Oh, right, now I get what all the fuss is about.”
HRVY, 21
Image: PA) PA)
The YouTuber and singer is a genuine fan of another contestant. “I went to The Wanted’s last concert when I was younger - I was a big fan, so it’s really cool that Max George is doing it.”
He is aiming high. “Obviously it’s the taking part that counts but I think everyone wants to go for gold! I’m going to put my heart into it.” He reckons Maisie Smith is his main competition. “I saw her on the Children in Need special and she’s really good. I DM’d her and said it was very average - just so she wasn’t too big-headed about it.”
His grandmother is thrilled to bits that he’s on the show. “My nan is buzzing, she left me countless voicemails just saying how excited she is.”
Jamie Laing, 31
Image: PA) PA)
The Made in Chelsea favourite is back, and this time he’ll be doing everything he can to avoid injury.
“I really have to be careful. I came out of it last year and like most people, I hate failing at stuff. If something happens then the Strictly curse isn’t about me sleeping with someone else, it’s definitely about my foot!”
He is hoping to impress his mother by being on the show. “It makes my mum proud that I’m doing it and I’ve never made her proud before, so that is literally one of the big reasons.
But she’s not necessarily backing him to go all the way. “My mum would say ‘you’re awful!’ She tells me straight out, ‘You’re not going to win it,
there’s no way.’ She says I’ll be out about week three.”
Jason Bell, 42
Image: PA) PA)
The American footballer says the first person he told about doing doing the show was his ex, Girls Aloud’s Nadine Coyle, with whom he has a daughter.
“When I told her, she just was like, are you sure your back can do it? I talk to her all the time about preparing for dance routines and stuff like that, and how long does it take and what do you need to do? She’s an expert, so I’m lucky because of that.”
He says his sporting instincts will kick in. “I’m competitive. The longer you’re on the show, the more of an experience you get and I don’t want that to end.”
One of his favourite winners was Ore Oduba. “I love Ore. I was watching with my daughter who was really young then. He looked like he was having so much fun, he was just flying all over the place.
Max George, 32
Image: PA) PA)
The singer admits he has no idea how he’ll get on. “I don’t really know anything about different dances. From what people have told me apparently the cha cha can be a bit of a pain. I have no idea what that is by the way, I might love it.”
In terms of winning he laughs: “If I was to bet on myself, I wouldn’t and that’s the truth. If I can get past week one, then I’ll do as well as I can to get past week two.”
He says girlfriend Stacey Giggs didn’t believe he was doing it at first.
“She laughed and then laughed a bit more,” he reveals. “I think she thought I was joking. She gets a break from me for a few weeks so she’s probably delighted about that.”
He is hoping for tips from bandmate Jay McGuiness who won in 2015. “Jay is an amazing dancer he always has been. I know its going to be a massive challenge for me.”
Maisie Smith, 19
Image: PA) PA)
The EastEnders actress says her professional dance partner is going to have his work cut out. “They need to be able to put up with my craziness – I’m looking for someone that can handle me,” she said.
She can’t wait for all the costumes and make-up. “That is genuinely what I think I’m most excited about - being glammed up every single week. I can’t wait for them to work that magic on me.”
Dancewise, she says: she is most looking forward to Street, “because that’s the only one that I know that I’ll be able to do”.
Maisie is planning on plenty of help from her family. “In lockdown, me and my mum have been learning a hell of a lot of dancing on social media. We’re a pretty dancey family and all love a bit of musical theatre.”
Ranvir Singh, 43
Image: PA) PA)
The Good Morning Britain political editor says she is “the least competitive person you’ve ever met” and claims to have never played competitive sport in her life.
Her previous dance experience amounts to childhood ballet classes, but she wasn’t a natural. “I did very proudly do grade one ballet when I was about seven, but my dance career ended after my teacher put in my report card, ‘Ranvir is enthusiastic but sadly lands like an elephant’.”
Her main concern is looking good in the costumes. “I just hope they’ve got really, really, really strong support underwear. As long as they can hold it all in and make me look as streamlined as is magically possible - then I’ll be happy.”
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 3303


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Trust in the press soars during pandemic as more turn to traditional outlets

The coronavirus has seen more people turn to traditional news outlets for information they can trust , a survey has found .
The analysis shows people 's appreciation of journalism has increased since the outbreak of the pandemic .
Two thirds of those surveyed ( 66 % ) say they “ appreciate and value journalism more since the global coronavirus pandemic began ” .
Among those aged under 35 the figure was even higher , with 77 % saying they valued the work of journalists in providing reliable news and information .
The study World Without News reveals that young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of news such as papers , TV and radio than information found on social media platforms .
Seven in ten under 35s said they were less anxious about a story seen on social media once they had checked out via a trust news brand .
The findings come amid growing concern about the spread of fake news and disinformation on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter .
There is also increased public alarm at attempts to muzzle or stifle journalists from doing their job .
Some 70 % of those surveyed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would harm democratic society ” and that journalists are “ important to society ” by covering important topics and issues that might otherwise be overlooked.
” The research was commissioned by the organisation Newsworks in partnership with the News Media Association and Society of Editors to mark the Journalism Matters week that highlights the importance of newspapers in the UK .
Earlier this week the Queen took the unusual step of issuing a statement praising the “ vital ” work papers do in providing “ trusted , reliable sources of information.
” Jo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ This research clearly shows the importance of trusted news and information .
Journalism matters to increasingly large numbers of people who are relying on news brands more than ever , especially amid the coronavirus pandemic .
“ This is our biggest study to date and what has emerged is the essential and growing role news plays in bringing us together , providing us with different perspectives and helping us to understand what is happening in the world around us.
” NMA deputy chief executive Lynne Anderson said : “ Trusted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media titles is an essential part of the country ’ s response to the coronavirus pandemic .
“ But the industry needs urgent action from Government on a number of fronts – tackling the overweening power of the tech giants , promoting verifiable news sources , and initiating targeted support initiatives - so that it can continue to perform this vital role and deliver the journalism we all want to read.
” Ian Murray , executive director of the Society of Editors said : `` It was always understood that the public supported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mainstream media with its ability to provide well researched , balanced , correctly edited news content and the proof has been provided by the numbers in which people have turned to trusted journalism for news and information during this pandemic .
`` The figures supported by this research underscore the public 's understanding of the value of the news content that the press provides in the UK . ''

In the World Without News study it was shown that seven in 10 under-35s are less anxious about a story on social media once they have confirmed it via a trusted news brand
Trust in the press soars during pandemic as more turn to traditional outlets
The coronavirus has seen more people turn to traditional news outlets for information they can trust, a survey has found.
The analysis shows people's appreciation of journalism has increased since the outbreak of the pandemic.
Two thirds of those surveyed (66%) say they “appreciate and value journalism more since the global coronavirus pandemic began”.
Among those aged under 35 the figure was even higher, with 77% saying they valued the work of journalists in providing reliable news and information.
The study World Without News reveals that young people have more faith in traditional forms of news such as papers, TV and radio than information found on social media platforms.
Seven in ten under 35s said they were less anxious about a story seen on social media once they had checked out via a trust news brand.
The findings come amid growing concern about the spread of fake news and disinformation on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.
There is also increased public alarm at attempts to muzzle or stifle journalists from doing their job.
Image: Getty) Getty)
Some 70% of those surveyed agreed that a “world without journalism would harm democratic society” and that journalists are “important to society” by covering important topics and issues that might otherwise be overlooked.”
The research was commissioned by the organisation Newsworks in partnership with the News Media Association and Society of Editors to mark the Journalism Matters week that highlights the importance of newspapers in the UK.
Earlier this week the Queen took the unusual step of issuing a statement praising the “vital” work papers do in providing “ trusted, reliable sources of information.”
Jo Allan, managing director at Newsworks, said: “This research clearly shows the importance of trusted news and information. Journalism matters to increasingly large numbers of people who are relying on news brands more than ever, especially amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“This is our biggest study to date and what has emerged is the essential and growing role news plays in bringing us together, providing us with different perspectives and helping us to understand what is happening in the world around us.”
NMA deputy chief executive Lynne Anderson said: “Trusted journalism produced by local and national news media titles is an essential part of the country’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.
“But the industry needs urgent action from Government on a number of fronts – tackling the overweening power of the tech giants, promoting verifiable news sources, and initiating targeted support initiatives - so that it can continue to perform this vital role and deliver the journalism we all want to read.”
Ian Murray, executive director of the Society of Editors said: "It was always understood that the public supported free press and recognised the need for the mainstream media with its ability to provide well researched, balanced, correctly edited news content and the proof has been provided by the numbers in which people have turned to trusted journalism for news and information during this pandemic.
"The figures supported by this research underscore the public's understanding of the value of the news content that the press provides in the UK."


thedailymirror--2020-10-06--Town hall chiefs warn of affordable housing crisis if Tory plans get go-ahead

Tens of thousands of affordable homes would not have been built under Tory proposals to overhaul planning rules , town hall leaders warn today .
Hard-up families would have missed out on nearly 30,000 affordable properties in the past five years , according to the Local Government Association .
The Government is considering axing the requirement for developers to build affordable housing on small sites as part of its planning system shake-up .
Ministers are consulting on whether to scrap the condition for construction sites where fewer than 40 or 50 homes would be built .
A study for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between 2015/16 and 2019/20 , 119,505 private homes were built on sites of 10 to 49 units .
Based on an average of developers being required to make 25 % of new housing affordable , this would have included 29,876 affordable homes for either rent or purchase .
A regional breakdown shows the scale of the potential loss of affordable housing across the country over the past five years if the requirement had not existed .
The East Midlands would have missed out on 2,941 affordable properties ; the East of England 3,587 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ North West 3,920 ; the South East 5,337 ; the South West 3,757 ; the West Midlands 3,236 ; Yorkshire and the Humber 2,742 ; and London 2,993 .
The LGA wants councils to be allowed to decide how many affordable houses should be part of developments .
Housing spokesman David Renard said : “ Proposals to exempt developers from having to build affordable housing on certain small sites are of huge concern .
“ With rising housing waiting lists and record numbers in temporary accommodation , we desperately need to be building @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We need to build homes that are affordable to local people and help to reduce homelessness , rather than contributing additional funds to developers ’ and landowners ’ profits .
“ These current proposals risk allowing developers to game the system by only putting forward schemes for fewer than 40 or 50 homes , and so avoid building any affordable homes at all.
” He added : “ We want to work with government on reforming the planning system , which ensures that it is improved and strengthened , delivering beautiful homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this also needs to see the requirement for affordable housing retained as a key element , by giving councils the power to determine what is right for their local area.
” Latest figures show more than a million families are on council house waiting lists and almost 93,000 households are living in temporary accommodation , because of a lack of suitable low-cost housing .
Shadow Communities Secretary Steve Reed said : “ The Government ’ s Developer ’ s Charter will lead to fewer affordable homes being built .
“ If this Conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis they would drop these proposals and concentrate on getting the housing we need built.
” District Councils ’ Network vice-chairman Tom Beattie said : “ These alarming figures expose the risk that this proposed planning reform could wipe out the building of new affordable homes in many areas .
“ The planning system is not a barrier to growth .
“ Districts councils continue to approve nine in 10 planning permissions and need the tools to ensure large house builders deliver the housing that already have planning permission .
“ We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small builders build the high quality affordable homes that they want to .
“ But this means supporting small builders to access the land , skills and finance .
“ These proposals risk doing the opposite , reducing the scope of the local planning system to support small local builders to build affordable local homes.
” A Ministry of Housing , Communities and Local Government spokeswoman said : “ These claims from the LGA are fundamentally flawed as they are based only on an 18 month support programme for small and medium-sized developers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not relevant to our policies .
“ Our proposals will bring in a new , simpler infrastructure levy to ensure developers pay their way and deliver at least as much , if not more , onsite affordable housing than today .
“ We also recently announced details of our £11.5billion Affordable Homes Programme – the biggest investment in a decade – which will deliver up to 180,000 new affordable homes across the country .
”

The Local Government Association hit out as the Government plots an overhaul of the planning regime
Tens of thousands of affordable homes would not have been built under Tory proposals to overhaul planning rules, town hall leaders warn today.
Hard-up families would have missed out on nearly 30,000 affordable properties in the past five years, according to the Local Government Association.
The Government is considering axing the requirement for developers to build affordable housing on small sites as part of its planning system shake-up.
Ministers are consulting on whether to scrap the condition for construction sites where fewer than 40 or 50 homes would be built.
Image: PA) PA)
A study for the LGA by industry analyst Glenigan shows that between 2015/16 and 2019/20, 119,505 private homes were built on sites of 10 to 49 units.
Based on an average of developers being required to make 25% of new housing affordable, this would have included 29,876 affordable homes for either rent or purchase.
A regional breakdown shows the scale of the potential loss of affordable housing across the country over the past five years if the requirement had not existed.
The East Midlands would have missed out on 2,941 affordable properties; the East of England 3,587; the North East 1,360; the North West 3,920; the South East 5,337; the South West 3,757; the West Midlands 3,236; Yorkshire and the Humber 2,742; and London 2,993.
Image: PA) PA)
The LGA wants councils to be allowed to decide how many affordable houses should be part of developments.
Housing spokesman David Renard said: “Proposals to exempt developers from having to build affordable housing on certain small sites are of huge concern.
“With rising housing waiting lists and record numbers in temporary accommodation, we desperately need to be building more affordable housing, not less.
“We need to build homes that are affordable to local people and help to reduce homelessness, rather than contributing additional funds to developers’ and landowners’ profits.
Image: PA) PA)
“These current proposals risk allowing developers to game the system by only putting forward schemes for fewer than 40 or 50 homes, and so avoid building any affordable homes at all.”
He added: “We want to work with government on reforming the planning system, which ensures that it is improved and strengthened, delivering beautiful homes and places for communities.
“But this also needs to see the requirement for affordable housing retained as a key element, by giving councils the power to determine what is right for their local area.”
Latest figures show more than a million families are on council house waiting lists and almost 93,000 households are living in temporary accommodation, because of a lack of suitable low-cost housing.
Shadow Communities Secretary Steve Reed said: “The Government’s Developer’s Charter will lead to fewer affordable homes being built.
Image: Handout) Handout)
“Our communities are desperate for affordable housing.
“If this Conservative Government was serious about tackling the housing crisis they would drop these proposals and concentrate on getting the housing we need built.”
District Councils’ Network vice-chairman Tom Beattie said: “These alarming figures expose the risk that this proposed planning reform could wipe out the building of new affordable homes in many areas.
“The planning system is not a barrier to growth.
“Districts councils continue to approve nine in 10 planning permissions and need the tools to ensure large house builders deliver the housing that already have planning permission.
“We are right behind the ambition help our local small builders build the high quality affordable homes that they want to.
“But this means supporting small builders to access the land, skills and finance.
“These proposals risk doing the opposite, reducing the scope of the local planning system to support small local builders to build affordable local homes.”
A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokeswoman said: “These claims from the LGA are fundamentally flawed as they are based only on an 18 month support programme for small and medium-sized developers during the pandemic – their analysis is not relevant to our policies.
“Our proposals will bring in a new, simpler infrastructure levy to ensure developers pay their way and deliver at least as much, if not more, onsite affordable housing than today.
“We also recently announced details of our £11.5billion Affordable Homes Programme – the biggest investment in a decade – which will deliver up to 180,000 new affordable homes across the country.”