birminghammail--2020-10-15--Garry Monk discusses James Beattie's Sheffield Wednesday arrival

Garry Monk has been discussing Birmingham City ahead of his Sheffield Wednesday side 's visit to St Andrew 's on Saturday ( 3pm ) .
Monk left Blues after the end of the 2018-19 season , with his caretaker Pep Clotet taking over in the interim before staying on permanently .
Clotet is now gone , with fellow Spaniard Aitor Karanka replacing him in the summer .
Monk joined Wednesday in September but was without coaches James Beattie and Darryl Flahavan , the pair staying on at Blues but on gardening leave with no place in Clotet 's setup .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Karanka 's arrival and are now at Hillsborough with Monk .
And Monk has offered his thoughts on the situation as he prepares to face Blues with Beattie and Flahavan for the first time .
`` They 'd been with me for a number of years and they 'd moved with me to various jobs , '' Monk said , `` we 'd done that together .
`` It was always a club decision from Birmingham .
We thought it would be the normal situation , where a manager moves on the staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new manager comes in .
`` You 'd have to ask Birmingham why .
They did n't feel that they wanted to do that and that was the situation , there was nothing we could do about that .
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Google Play Store and App Store '' I came to Sheffield and of course I thought they would be coming with me .
That 's the normal process .
For whatever reason Birmingham did n't want that to happen and it is what it is .
`` Obviously now they 're here and what probably should have happened a year ago has happened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that .
`` I can see the difference in having that and hopefully it 's a benefit for the club and the players going forward .
`` It 's what I wanted and what I needed to happen , yes it came later than I thought it would , but it does n't matter .
`` The past is the past . ''

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Garry Monk has been discussing Birmingham City ahead of his Sheffield Wednesday side's visit to St Andrew's on Saturday (3pm).
Monk left Blues after the end of the 2018-19 season, with his caretaker Pep Clotet taking over in the interim before staying on permanently.
Clotet is now gone, with fellow Spaniard Aitor Karanka replacing him in the summer.
Monk joined Wednesday in September but was without coaches James Beattie and Darryl Flahavan, the pair staying on at Blues but on gardening leave with no place in Clotet's setup.
They were released in the summer following Karanka's arrival and are now at Hillsborough with Monk.
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And Monk has offered his thoughts on the situation as he prepares to face Blues with Beattie and Flahavan for the first time.
"They'd been with me for a number of years and they'd moved with me to various jobs," Monk said, "we'd done that together.
"It was always a club decision from Birmingham. We thought it would be the normal situation, where a manager moves on the staff go with him or move as a new manager comes in.
"You'd have to ask Birmingham why. They didn't feel that they wanted to do that and that was the situation, there was nothing we could do about that.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
"I came to Sheffield and of course I thought they would be coming with me. That's the normal process. For whatever reason Birmingham didn't want that to happen and it is what it is.
"Obviously now they're here and what probably should have happened a year ago has happened now and I'm very happy with that.
"I can see the difference in having that and hopefully it's a benefit for the club and the players going forward.
"It's what I wanted and what I needed to happen, yes it came later than I thought it would, but it doesn't matter.
"The past is the past."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Warning to residents after 'attempted distraction burglary'

Police are urging Wolverhampton residents to remain vigilant after an 'attempted distraction burglary ' .
It comes after a bogus official door knocked a pensioner on Windsor Gardens , Castlecroft , on Saturday afternoon , October 10 .
It 's believed the rogue trader claimed that next door had a leak which was coming from the attic .
However , the pensioner knew that something was n't quite right and sent the bogus official on their way .
The elderly person later spoke to the neighbour and confirmed no such leak had occurred .
In a message on West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Pcso Asher said : `` Between 2pm and 2.30pm on Saturday , October 10 , an 'attempted distraction burglary ' occurred on Windsor Gardens , Castlecroft , Wolverhampton , WV3 8LY .
`` An unknown bogus official approached the door , rung the door bell and spoken to the elderly person at the property .
`` The bogus official attempted to gain entry to the property by pretending that next door had a leak which was coming from the attic of the elderly person .
`` Fortunately , the elderly person was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to leave .
The elderly person had later spoken to the neighbour and confirmed no such leak has occurred .
`` The elderly person believes the bogus official was there in order to gain entry to the property to steal .
`` Please be mindful when people approach your door .
If in any doubt , do not let them or answer the door and phone the police immediately . ''
If you have any information regarding this incident , please contact West Midlands police via it 's website online reporting system or @ @ @ @ @ @

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Police are urging Wolverhampton residents to remain vigilant after an 'attempted distraction burglary'.
It comes after a bogus official door knocked a pensioner on Windsor Gardens, Castlecroft, on Saturday afternoon, October 10.
It's believed the rogue trader claimed that next door had a leak which was coming from the attic.
However, the pensioner knew that something wasn't quite right and sent the bogus official on their way.
The elderly person later spoke to the neighbour and confirmed no such leak had occurred.
In a message on West Midlands Police's online alert system WM now, Pcso Asher said: "Between 2pm and 2.30pm on Saturday, October 10, an 'attempted distraction burglary' occurred on Windsor Gardens, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton, WV3 8LY.
"An unknown bogus official approached the door, rung the door bell and spoken to the elderly person at the property.
"The bogus official attempted to gain entry to the property by pretending that next door had a leak which was coming from the attic of the elderly person.
"Fortunately, the elderly person was switched on and told the unknown person to leave. The elderly person had later spoken to the neighbour and confirmed no such leak has occurred.
"The elderly person believes the bogus official was there in order to gain entry to the property to steal.
"Please be mindful when people approach your door. If in any doubt, do not let them or answer the door and phone the police immediately."
If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact West Midlands police via it's website online reporting system or it's 101 telephone system.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Police hunt knifemen after cyclist stabbed and robbed of his bike

Police are hunting a pair of violent muggers after a man was stabbed and robbed of his bike in a broad daylight attack .
The victim , a man in his 60s , is fighting for his life after being knifed on Chapel Walk , a residential cul-de-sac in Kings Norton .
It 's believed he was robbed of his bike after being attacked .
Police sealed off the area , and part of nearby Wharf Road , following the stabbing on Thursday afternoon , October 15 .
Emergency crews found the injured man shortly after 1.30pm .
He was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being rushed on blue lights to hospital .
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said : `` We were called at 1.34pm to Chapel Walk in Kings Norton to reports of a stabbing .
`` An ambulance , paramedic officer and the West Midlands CARE Team attended .
`` One man was in a serious condition and received trauma care on scene before being taken on blue lights to hospital . ''
Pictures from the scene this afternoon show a police cordon in place and officers standing guard .
Police are now urging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A West Midlands Police spokesman said : `` We 're appealing for information after a man was found with serious stab injuries in Kings Norton this afternoon ( 15 October ) .
`` A man in his 60s was discovered in Chapel Walk at just after 1.50pm .
It 's believed he was also robbed of his bike after being attacked and he remains in a serious condition in hospital .
`` Two men were seen leaving the area in the direction of Brandwood Park with the yellow bike , and we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They are both white with one described as 6ft tall and the other understood to be around 5ft 6ins tall .
We 're keen to hear from anyone who has seen them with a bike of that colour . ''
Anyone with information can contact police via Live Chat , or by calling 101 , and quoting log 2383 of 15 October .
Motorists are being warned to avoid the area , with a cordon in place between Masshouse Lane and Parsons Hill .

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Police are hunting a pair of violent muggers after a man was stabbed and robbed of his bike in a broad daylight attack.
The victim, a man in his 60s, is fighting for his life after being knifed on Chapel Walk, a residential cul-de-sac in Kings Norton.
It's believed he was robbed of his bike after being attacked.
Police sealed off the area, and part of nearby Wharf Road, following the stabbing on Thursday afternoon, October 15.
Emergency crews found the injured man shortly after 1.30pm. He was given trauma care at the scene before being rushed on blue lights to hospital.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: "We were called at 1.34pm to Chapel Walk in Kings Norton to reports of a stabbing.
"An ambulance, paramedic officer and the West Midlands CARE Team attended.
"One man was in a serious condition and received trauma care on scene before being taken on blue lights to hospital."
Pictures from the scene this afternoon show a police cordon in place and officers standing guard.
A small blue tent has been erected.
Police are now urging anyone with information to come forward.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "We're appealing for information after a man was found with serious stab injuries in Kings Norton this afternoon (15 October).
"A man in his 60s was discovered in Chapel Walk at just after 1.50pm. It's believed he was also robbed of his bike after being attacked and he remains in a serious condition in hospital.
"Two men were seen leaving the area in the direction of Brandwood Park with the yellow bike, and we need your help to identify them.
"They are both white with one described as 6ft tall and the other understood to be around 5ft 6ins tall. We're keen to hear from anyone who has seen them with a bike of that colour."
Anyone with information can contact police via Live Chat, or by calling 101, and quoting log 2383 of 15 October.
Motorists are being warned to avoid the area, with a cordon in place between Masshouse Lane and Parsons Hill.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--The areas in Tamworth with highest Covid 19 cases

The latest data provided today ( October 15 ) recorded 21 positive tests in Tamworth and 83 in the last seven days , a rise of 14 and an increase of 20.3 per cent .
This brings the overall total to 608 positive tests in Tamworth so far .
In the seven day rolling rate of new cases by specimen ending on October 9 , the area of Coton Farm and Perry Crofts has the highest number of cases with 17 and a rate of 185.1 .
This is followed by Bolehall on 12 ( 161.7 ) and Belgrave , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with single figures include Amington 9 ( 118 ) , Kettlebrook 7 ( 116 ) , Dosthill and Two Gates 6 ( 83.7 ) , Wilnecote West and Hockley 6 ( 62.6 ) , Wilnecote East 5 ( 66.9 ) and Central Tamworth 4 ( 48.3 ) .
Nearby areas close to Tamworth include Fazeley , Mile Oak and Drayton Bassett 11 ( 148.5 ) , Dordon , Hurley and Wood End 9 ( 97.8 ) , Whittington , Hopwas and Clifton Campville 8 ( 102.7 ) , Hartshill and Ansley 8 ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Austrey 7 ( 63.6 ) , Kingsbury and Curdworth 6 ( 86.4 ) and Atherstone 5 ( 41.6 ) .
Tamworth and the whole of Staffordshire and North Warwickshire are in the medium tier section of Boris Johnson ’ s new lockdown system but council bosses have warned residents .
Councillor Daniel Cook , Tamworth Borough Council ’ s leader , said : “ We have worked hard as a borough to protect the vulnerable and we continue to act swiftly to contain outbreaks of Covid-19 , to help reduce the risk to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the situation in Liverpool is a stark reminder of what could happen here if we don ’ t act now , so we are asking people of all ages to reinforce their efforts to help keep Tamworth safe .
“ Complacency is Covid-19 ’ s biggest friend and the consequences of not sticking to the rules are now in our own hands.
” Testing units returned to Tamworth this morning ( Thursday ) and are in place again Friday .
Tamworth Borough Council said : `` Covid cases have been rising in Tamworth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got any of the symptoms , please book a test .
`` The mobile testing unit is at Sir Robert Peel Hospital today ( October 15 ) and tomorrow ( October 16 ) .
Tests must be booked online at https : //www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing-and-tracing/get-a-test-to-check-if-you-have-coronavirus . ''
The town 's MP has previously called for more testing to be done in the town .

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Covid-19 cases are rising in Tamworth.
The latest data provided today (October 15) recorded 21 positive tests in Tamworth and 83 in the last seven days, a rise of 14 and an increase of 20.3 per cent.
This brings the overall total to 608 positive tests in Tamworth so far.
In the seven day rolling rate of new cases by specimen ending on October 9, the area of Coton Farm and Perry Crofts has the highest number of cases with 17 and a rate of 185.1.
This is followed by Bolehall on 12 (161.7) and Belgrave, 10 (144.6).
Other wards with single figures include Amington 9 (118), Kettlebrook 7 (116), Dosthill and Two Gates 6 (83.7), Wilnecote West and Hockley 6 (62.6), Wilnecote East 5 (66.9) and Central Tamworth 4 (48.3).
Nearby areas close to Tamworth include Fazeley, Mile Oak and Drayton Bassett 11 (148.5), Dordon, Hurley and Wood End 9 (97.8), Whittington, Hopwas and Clifton Campville 8 (102.7), Hartshill and Ansley 8 (83.8), Polesworth, Warton and Austrey 7 (63.6), Kingsbury and Curdworth 6 (86.4) and Atherstone 5 (41.6).
Tamworth and the whole of Staffordshire and North Warwickshire are in the medium tier section of Boris Johnson’s new lockdown system but council bosses have warned residents.
Councillor Daniel Cook, Tamworth Borough Council’s leader, said: “We have worked hard as a borough to protect the vulnerable and we continue to act swiftly to contain outbreaks of Covid-19, to help reduce the risk to both lives and livelihoods.
“But the situation in Liverpool is a stark reminder of what could happen here if we don’t act now, so we are asking people of all ages to reinforce their efforts to help keep Tamworth safe.
(Image: Richard T Harris)
“Complacency is Covid-19’s biggest friend and the consequences of not sticking to the rules are now in our own hands.”
Testing units returned to Tamworth this morning (Thursday) and are in place again Friday.
Tamworth Borough Council said: "Covid cases have been rising in Tamworth in recent weeks. If you've got any of the symptoms, please book a test.
"The mobile testing unit is at Sir Robert Peel Hospital today (October 15) and tomorrow (October 16). Tests must be booked online at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing-and-tracing/get-a-test-to-check-if-you-have-coronavirus."
The town's MP has previously called for more testing to be done in the town.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Family feared they were 'stuck in Kos' after airport strike

A Tamworth family feared they were 'stuck in Kos ' after an airport strike prevented them from flying home tonight .
Nigel and Linda Nicholson , father-in-law Alec Obyrne and friends Glyn and Julie Evans flew out from Birmingham on Monday , October 5 .
They were due to return tonight ( October 15 ) but have been told that is now not possible because of strike action .
Jet2 has since confirmed affected flights will instead operate tomorrow .
Speaking from his hotel on Wednesday night , Nigel told Birmingham Live : “ We are stuck in Kos as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We were supposed to check out Thursday morning but reception informed us we had to contact Jet2holidays .
They ’ ve now told us that they are trying to sort flights out .
“ The airport goes on strike for 24 hours so our earliest flight out looks like 8am Friday onwards .
“ We only found out by accident .
One of our party asked to keep the room for longer as you have to check out as soon as possible .
If it wasn ’ t for that we could have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hallway !
“ Lucky for us we ’ ve been allowed to stay in the hotel until further notice .
They are letting us stay in our rooms and letting us carry on using the facilities .
“ If it wasn ’ t for the hotel letting us stay , I would be livid .
`` We have a party member that needs a wheel chair at the airport .
It is very small and at the moment cramped.
” Despite the drama Nigel insists they have enjoyed their stay : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s a fantastic place to come and see .
“ Kos Island has hardly any cases of Covid but all of the staff and shop keepers are wearing masks whilst we don ’ t have to as long as we keep our distance and respect their rules.
” A spokesperson for Jet2 said : “ We are aware of the strike by air traffic controllers in Greece which started earlier today .
“ We are not cancelling flights , and affected flights that were due to operate today ( 15th October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ October ) .
“ For customers due to depart back to the UK , our teams are already working hard to look after everyone affected and make sure they are provided with hotel accommodation and refreshments .
“ We apologise to any customers inconvenienced by these strikes , which are completely beyond our control .
”

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A Tamworth family feared they were 'stuck in Kos' after an airport strike prevented them from flying home tonight.
Nigel and Linda Nicholson, father-in-law Alec Obyrne and friends Glyn and Julie Evans flew out from Birmingham on Monday, October 5.
They were due to return tonight (October 15) but have been told that is now not possible because of strike action.
Jet2 has since confirmed affected flights will instead operate tomorrow.
Speaking from his hotel on Wednesday night, Nigel told Birmingham Live: “We are stuck in Kos as the airports go on strike.
"We were supposed to check out Thursday morning but reception informed us we had to contact Jet2holidays. They’ve now told us that they are trying to sort flights out.
“The airport goes on strike for 24 hours so our earliest flight out looks like 8am Friday onwards.
“We only found out by accident. One of our party asked to keep the room for longer as you have to check out as soon as possible. If it wasn’t for that we could have checked out and then been left in the hallway!
“Lucky for us we’ve been allowed to stay in the hotel until further notice. They are letting us stay in our rooms and letting us carry on using the facilities.
“If it wasn’t for the hotel letting us stay, I would be livid.
"We have a party member that needs a wheel chair at the airport. It is very small and at the moment cramped.”
Despite the drama Nigel insists they have enjoyed their stay: “We have had a fantastic time. It’s a fantastic place to come and see.
“Kos Island has hardly any cases of Covid but all of the staff and shop keepers are wearing masks whilst we don’t have to as long as we keep our distance and respect their rules.”
A spokesperson for Jet2 said: “We are aware of the strike by air traffic controllers in Greece which started earlier today.
“We are not cancelling flights, and affected flights that were due to operate today (15th October) will instead operate tomorrow (16th October).
“For customers due to depart back to the UK, our teams are already working hard to look after everyone affected and make sure they are provided with hotel accommodation and refreshments.
“We apologise to any customers inconvenienced by these strikes, which are completely beyond our control.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Borough experiences highest ever overnight rise in Covid cases

Sandwell has seen coronavirus cases rocket after recording its highest ever overnight rise .
The council ’ s deputy leader has now urged residents to stick to safety guidelines following the spike .
Councillor Maria Crompton ’ s plea follows reports of 146 new cases in Sandwell - the highest overnight total to date – up from a previous highest figure of 83 .
On Wednesday , October 15 , the government imposed new Tier 2 ( high alert level ) restrictions on Sandwell and several other areas in the region where there is a high rate of coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ mix with people from outside your own household or support bubble in any indoor setting .
This includes private homes and any other indoor venues such as pubs and restaurants .
The national ‘ rule of six ’ still applies outdoors , although up to six people can now meet in a garden .
All this applies both inside and outside of Sandwell .
Councillor Maria Crompton , said : `` As we move into winter , we ’ re seeing infection rates rise across England , we ’ re thinking especially about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are much more vulnerable to serious illness and death if infected – and it ’ s crucial that older people avoid the virus .
“ This is something we can all help with , no matter what our age .
“ Younger people could bring the virus into their family and pass it on to someone older and more at risk .
“ Our safety messages remain true and more important than ever – stay home as much as possible , wear face coverings in enclosed spaces and maintain social distancing .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas now and I ’ m sure all of you , like me , want to be able to be with family and friends .
“ But for that to be possible , we must stop the spread of the virus .
“ No one wants to see another spike in deaths from Covid-19 .
We must protect one another .
“ We are already seeing a significant rise in Covid-19 patients needing critical care in our region .
“ Please don ’ t take unnecessary risks because you think you ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distance from others , wash your hands regularly and wear a face covering in shops , on public transport and in other enclosed spaces.
” Councillor Crompton also paid tribute to Sandwell Council teams and other partners who were working hard every day in the continuing fight against coronavirus .
She added : “ I would like to say a very big thank you and pay tribute to the efforts of the many teams across the council , as well as our many partners and local businesses , who are responding day in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging circumstances .
“ Without their efforts , the situation could be even worse , and I ’ m extremely grateful to them .
“ We ’ re asking everyone to play their part by doing all they can to look after themselves and their loved ones.
” The council ’ s website has the latest Covid-19 local restrictions information and advice www.sandwell.gov.uk/localrestrictions

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Sandwell has seen coronavirus cases rocket after recording its highest ever overnight rise.
The council’s deputy leader has now urged residents to stick to safety guidelines following the spike.
Councillor Maria Crompton’s plea follows reports of 146 new cases in Sandwell - the highest overnight total to date – up from a previous highest figure of 83.
On Wednesday, October 15, the government imposed new Tier 2 (high alert level) restrictions on Sandwell and several other areas in the region where there is a high rate of coronavirus.
From now on you can’t mix with people from outside your own household or support bubble in any indoor setting. This includes private homes and any other indoor venues such as pubs and restaurants.
The national ‘rule of six’ still applies outdoors, although up to six people can now meet in a garden. All this applies both inside and outside of Sandwell.
Councillor Maria Crompton, said: "As we move into winter, we’re seeing infection rates rise across England, we’re thinking especially about our older people.
“Older adults are much more vulnerable to serious illness and death if infected – and it’s crucial that older people avoid the virus.
“This is something we can all help with, no matter what our age.
“Younger people could bring the virus into their family and pass it on to someone older and more at risk.
“Our safety messages remain true and more important than ever – stay home as much as possible, wear face coverings in enclosed spaces and maintain social distancing.
“It’s not that long until Christmas now and I’m sure all of you, like me, want to be able to be with family and friends.
“But for that to be possible, we must stop the spread of the virus.
“No one wants to see another spike in deaths from Covid-19. We must protect one another.
“We are already seeing a significant rise in Covid-19 patients needing critical care in our region.
“Please don’t take unnecessary risks because you think you’re safe.
“Please keep a safe distance from others, wash your hands regularly and wear a face covering in shops, on public transport and in other enclosed spaces.”
Councillor Crompton also paid tribute to Sandwell Council teams and other partners who were working hard every day in the continuing fight against coronavirus.
She added: “I would like to say a very big thank you and pay tribute to the efforts of the many teams across the council, as well as our many partners and local businesses, who are responding day in and day out to constantly changing and challenging circumstances.
“Without their efforts, the situation could be even worse, and I’m extremely grateful to them.
“We’re asking everyone to play their part by doing all they can to look after themselves and their loved ones.”
The council’s website has the latest Covid-19 local restrictions information and advice www.sandwell.gov.uk/localrestrictions


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Leicester City sweating on fitness of Caglar Soyuncu for Aston Villa clash

Leicester City are sweating on the fitness of centre-back Caglar Soyuncu ahead of Sunday night 's clash with Aston Villa ( 7.15pm ) .
Soyuncu did n't play in Turkey 's Nations League clash with Serbia on Wednesday night after picking up a hamstring injury on international duty .
The City defender has returned to the East Midlands and the severity of his injury will now be assessed .
If he can not play against Dean Smith 's side at the weekend then it could see Wesley Fofana , a £32 million arrival from French side Saint-Etienne earlier this month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' City .
BirminghamLive 's sister title , LeicestershireLive , reports that Fofana could be drafted in to start Jonny Evans at centre-back in place of Soyuncu , who has played every minute of City 's Premier League campaign so far .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this article and hit sign up .
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And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store City could switch formation for the Villa game , with Rodgers deploying a back-three in the last trio of matches .
However , with Daniel Amartey limping out of the match against West Ham United last time out that could force Rodgers to go back to two centre-backs .
`` In training Caglar 's feet were stretched , we rested , '' Turkey boss Senol Gunes said this week .
Soyuncu did n't play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most recent international break .
He was on the bench for the Russia match on Sunday before picking up his injury .

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Leicester City are sweating on the fitness of centre-back Caglar Soyuncu ahead of Sunday night's clash with Aston Villa (7.15pm).
Soyuncu didn't play in Turkey's Nations League clash with Serbia on Wednesday night after picking up a hamstring injury on international duty.
The City defender has returned to the East Midlands and the severity of his injury will now be assessed.
If he cannot play against Dean Smith 's side at the weekend then it could see Wesley Fofana, a £32 million arrival from French side Saint-Etienne earlier this month, make his debut for Brendan Rodgers' City.
BirminghamLive 's sister title, LeicestershireLive , reports that Fofana could be drafted in to start Jonny Evans at centre-back in place of Soyuncu, who has played every minute of City's Premier League campaign so far.
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City could switch formation for the Villa game, with Rodgers deploying a back-three in the last trio of matches.
However, with Daniel Amartey limping out of the match against West Ham United last time out that could force Rodgers to go back to two centre-backs.
"In training Caglar's feet were stretched, we rested," Turkey boss Senol Gunes said this week.
Soyuncu didn't play in any of Turkey's games in the most recent international break.
He was on the bench for the Russia match on Sunday before picking up his injury.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Half term extended to two weeks? Dates for October school break in your area

The October half-term break is usually one week but changes are being made in some locations to help deal with a rise in coronavirus cases .
Northern Ireland education minister Peter Weir has announced that the half-term break would be extended to last from Monday , October 19 to Friday , October 30 .
The two-week holiday for Northern Ireland will see schools and other education settings reopen after the Halloween weekend , with lessons starting again on Monday , November 2 .
Schools will be closed to all pupils during these two weeks including for children of key workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of coronavirus .
In Liverpool , mayor Joe Anderson is considering a similar move , our sister title the Echo reported .
He said schools accounted for a significant amount of Covid-19 transmission .
Asked whether a two week half-term was being considered , Mayor Anderson told Radio Merseyside : `` It is something I am looking at , yes .
It something I have had discussions about with my director of education .
`` I know that that can cause disruption to parents but at the same time our teaching staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got thousands of people in the teaching profession who are isolating at the moment as well as pupils . ''
What are the half-term dates in the West Midlands ?
In Birmingham , the half-term break is still listed by the city council as a one-week holiday from Monday October 26 to Friday October 30 ( plus weekends either side ) .
The council told us it would update its information if anything changed .
The same half-term dates have been given for schools in Walsall , Sandwell , Wolverhampton , Dudley and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one-week break at present .
In Northern Ireland , the Department of Education asked schools to extend the half-term by using two of their existing Optional Days with the remainder of the additional time off through the use of automatically allocated Exceptional Closure Days .
Education minister Peter Weir said direct payments would be made to pupils in receipt of free school meals for the week commencing October 19 .
The move came as a compromise following a proposal to close schools for six weeks .
Mr Weir added : `` As well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meals are not impacted during this extended half-term break , all non-teaching staff will be paid as normal .
`` Schools are closed to all pupils .
Principals should only bring staff into school during optional and exceptional closure days where they are unable to work from home .
As this is an extension of the half-term break , it is not intended to be used for remote learning .
`` The Education Authority will maintain support for vulnerable children during this period by ensuring essential support services including child protection , continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with those families . ''

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Changes are being made to the October half-term break in some places to help deal with a rise in coronavirus cases.
The school break usually lasts for one week but is being doubled in some locations.
Northern Ireland education minister Peter Weir has announced that half-term would be extended to last from Monday, October 19 to Friday, October 30.
The two-week holiday for Northern Ireland will see schools and other education settings reopen after the Halloween weekend, with lessons starting again on Monday, November 2.
Schools will be closed to all pupils during these two weeks including for children of key workers, in a bid to stem the spread of coronavirus.
(Image: Getty Images)
In Liverpool, mayor Joe Anderson is considering a similar move, our sister title the Echo reported.
He said schools accounted for a significant amount of Covid-19 transmission.
Asked whether a two week half-term was being considered, Mayor Anderson told Radio Merseyside: "It is something I am looking at, yes. It something I have had discussions about with my director of education.
"I know that that can cause disruption to parents but at the same time our teaching staff are under huge pressure. We have got thousands of people in the teaching profession who are isolating at the moment as well as pupils."
What are the half-term dates in the West Midlands?
In Birmingham, the half-term break is still listed by the city council as a one-week holiday from Monday October 26 to Friday October 30 (plus weekends either side).
The council told us it would update its information if anything changed.
The same half-term dates have been given for schools in Walsall, Sandwell, Wolverhampton, Dudley and Solihull, meaning no change to the one-week break at present.
In Northern Ireland, the Department of Education asked schools to extend the half-term by using two of their existing Optional Days with the remainder of the additional time off through the use of automatically allocated Exceptional Closure Days.
Education minister Peter Weir said direct payments would be made to pupils in receipt of free school meals for the week commencing October 19.
The move came as a compromise following a proposal to close schools for six weeks.
Mr Weir added: "As well as ensuring pupils who receive free schools meals are not impacted during this extended half-term break, all non-teaching staff will be paid as normal.
"Schools are closed to all pupils. Principals should only bring staff into school during optional and exceptional closure days where they are unable to work from home. As this is an extension of the half-term break, it is not intended to be used for remote learning.
"The Education Authority will maintain support for vulnerable children during this period by ensuring essential support services including child protection, continue to operate as normal and maintain regular contact with those families."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--A&E patients 'to be turned away' as city hospitals face rising demand

Hundreds of patients a day who turn up at Birmingham 's A & E departments who do n't need to be there will be turned away , as hospitals battle to protect critical services .
The impact of rising coronavirus cases , alongside other urgent health issues and a mental health crisis are putting extreme pressure on services , bosses at University Hospitals Birmingham said today .
They are currently treating 205 Covid patients , along with 2,000 more in-patients , and demand has forced them to issue a blunt message : `` If you are not in urgent need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away . ''
Every A & E patient will be assessed on arrival and anyone whose condition is deemed non essential will be asked to seek help elsewhere .
The unprecedented measure is likely to affect around 25-30 % of all patients who normally arrive at emergency departments at the Queen Elizabeth , Heartlands and Good Hope hospitals - the equivalent of around 300 to 350 people every day out of an average caseload of 1,100 .
The stark message comes as increasing numbers of 999 ambulances transporting patients in urgent need are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sometimes an hour or more , to hand them over because all available space inside the department is taken up .
Covid restrictions mean it is no longer possible for paramedics to hand their patients over to nurses to wait in a corridor until space is freed up - so instead they stay in the ambulance .
That in turn means they can not get back on the road to reach more emergencies .
The situation is worse at Heartlands and Good Hope than at the QE , but all are seeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ director for the Trust , said the decision to turn people away had been reached with the support of health partners and regulators .
It was the first of a likely series of steps designed to protect the hospitals ' ability to deal with the most seriously ill people in the city this winter .
Rising coronavirus cases - and the knock on impact - meant there was a reduced capacity across the hospitals .
`` We are full to capacity at the moment , within the coronavirus restrictions , '' said Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summer months the number of patients coming to A & E requiring treatment for other conditions and minor injuries reduced .
`` Now the levels of attendance and need are back to normal , back to pre-Covid levels , but coronavirus cases are going up at the same time .
That means we are in a position where we need to take more action to protect our ability to deal with the most seriously ill. '' Mr Brotherton , speaking this afternoon at the Queen Elizabeth hospital , said : `` We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not urgent ) for many months , and years , that they do not need to be here , that they would be better seen by a GP , or a pharmacist , or an urgent treatment centre , but some respond ' I 'm here now , I do n't mind the wait ' .
`` Some will be prepared to wait hours , but eventually they will be treated .
`` But what we will be saying now , before they get into the A & E proper , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be here , you have to go somewhere else .
You will not be seen .
`` We hope people will heed that message . ''
The final details were being refined but the measure will come into force within a week or two , he added .
West Midlands Ambulance Service said they could not yet provide data to quantify the extent of the offloading issue for their crews but a spokesman said : “ At times of peak demand , unfortunately delays do occur at some hospitals including Heartlands , Good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We continue to work closely with all hospitals to tackle such issues to help ensures ambulances are able to offload patients as quickly as possible . ''
The ambulance trust already has a strong record for only taking patients to hospital who need to go there - it has the second lowest conveyance rate of any ambulance service .
He added : `` While ambulances are tied up at hospital , it is not the patient who our staff are with that is necessarily at risk , though the individual ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the risk , as NHS England has pointed out , is to the patient who we have not yet been able to reach who is at the highest risk of preventable harm .
”

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Hundreds of patients a day who turn up at Birmingham's A&E departments who don't need to be there will be turned away, as hospitals battle to protect critical services.
The impact of rising coronavirus cases, alongside other urgent health issues and a mental health crisis are putting extreme pressure on services, bosses at University Hospitals Birmingham said today.
They are currently treating 205 Covid patients, along with 2,000 more in-patients, and demand has forced them to issue a blunt message: "If you are not in urgent need of help, you will be sent away."
Every A&E patient will be assessed on arrival and anyone whose condition is deemed non essential will be asked to seek help elsewhere.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
The unprecedented measure is likely to affect around 25-30% of all patients who normally arrive at emergency departments at the Queen Elizabeth, Heartlands and Good Hope hospitals - the equivalent of around 300 to 350 people every day out of an average caseload of 1,100.
The stark message comes as increasing numbers of 999 ambulances transporting patients in urgent need are having to wait outside A&E, sometimes an hour or more, to hand them over because all available space inside the department is taken up.
Covid restrictions mean it is no longer possible for paramedics to hand their patients over to nurses to wait in a corridor until space is freed up - so instead they stay in the ambulance.
That in turn means they cannot get back on the road to reach more emergencies.
The situation is worse at Heartlands and Good Hope than at the QE, but all are seeing the impact.
Jonathan Brotherton, operations director for the Trust, said the decision to turn people away had been reached with the support of health partners and regulators.
It was the first of a likely series of steps designed to protect the hospitals' ability to deal with the most seriously ill people in the city this winter.
Rising coronavirus cases - and the knock on impact - meant there was a reduced capacity across the hospitals.
"We are full to capacity at the moment, within the coronavirus restrictions," said Mr Brotherton.
"During lockdown and the summer months the number of patients coming to A&E requiring treatment for other conditions and minor injuries reduced.
"Now the levels of attendance and need are back to normal, back to pre-Covid levels, but coronavirus cases are going up at the same time. That means we are in a position where we need to take more action to protect our ability to deal with the most seriously ill."
Mr Brotherton, speaking this afternoon at the Queen Elizabeth hospital, said: "We have been telling those patients (whose condition is not urgent) for many months, and years, that they do not need to be here, that they would be better seen by a GP, or a pharmacist, or an urgent treatment centre, but some respond 'I'm here now, I don't mind the wait'.
"Some will be prepared to wait hours, but eventually they will be treated.
"But what we will be saying now, before they get into the A&E proper, is that if you do not need to be here, you have to go somewhere else. You will not be seen.
"We hope people will heed that message."
The final details were being refined but the measure will come into force within a week or two, he added.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
West Midlands Ambulance Service said they could not yet provide data to quantify the extent of the offloading issue for their crews but a spokesman said: “At times of peak demand, unfortunately delays do occur at some hospitals including Heartlands, Good Hope and Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.
"We continue to work closely with all hospitals to tackle such issues to help ensures ambulances are able to offload patients as quickly as possible."
The ambulance trust already has a strong record for only taking patients to hospital who need to go there - it has the second lowest conveyance rate of any ambulance service.
He added: "While ambulances are tied up at hospital, it is not the patient who our staff are with that is necessarily at risk, though the individual’s dignity and safety is undoubtedly compromised; the risk, as NHS England has pointed out, is to the patient who we have not yet been able to reach who is at the highest risk of preventable harm.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Aston Villa transfer news live: King breaks silence, Buendia linked and more

Hello and welcome to Thursday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you up @ @ @ @ @ transfer news ahead of the second deadline later this week .
Dean Smith has until @ @ @ @ @ get any deals he wants done with English Football League ( EFL ) clubs .
@ @ @ @ @ Ismaila Sarr of Watford and Josh King at AFC Bournemouth have all been linked with @ @ @ @ @ should Smith feel his side needs a little extra , they could swoop for one @ @ @ @ @ has been developments on two of those players over the last few days though , @ @ @ @ @ their interest in Benrahma and making a separate move for King while Villa are keen @ @ @ @ @ done so some of Villa 's fringe players or young stars could secure a move @ @ @ @ @ regular game-time .
You can keep up to date with all the latest on the @ @ @ @

Hello and welcome to Monday's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive.
We will be keeping you up to date with the latest Villa news and gossip after a fourth win of the season.
A stoppage-time strike from Ross Barkley gave Dean Smith's men a valuable 1-0 win over Midland rivals Leicester City as they maintained their winning start to the season.
There will be plenty of reaction to that game and news ahead of the next Premier League encounter with Leeds United on Friday night.
After the summer transfer window, It's also all eyes on the January window, now, which is only two and a half months away!
Join our team throughout the day to keep up to date with all the latest eaction and gossip on the blog below.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Vile thugs attack woman in her home and attempt to steal diamond ring

Vile thugs forced their way into an elderly woman 's home and attempted to prise her diamond wedding ring off - leaving her with cuts and bruises .
The brazen thieves struck in broad daylight , crowbarring open the front door and assaulting the defenceless 92-year-old .
It 's thought the thugs may have been watching the address , as they struck moments after the victim 's daughter had left .
Detectives investigating the incident said `` it 's hard to imagine how anyone could sink so low '' .
The three heartless burglars tried in vain to remove the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ woman by her late husband – from her finger before fleeing with more than £1,000 in cash .
She had been saving the money to buy a new three-piece suite .
The thieves were white , aged in their 30s and all around 5ft 10ins tall .
Detectives are carrying out local enquiries and will be examining CCTV in the hope the crooks were caught on camera .
The men struck in Hockett Street , Cheylesmore , Coventry at 2.45pm on Wednesday , October 14 .
Detective Constable Surinder Dadry from Force CID @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to imagine how anyone could sink so low as to assault an elderly woman and forcibly try to rip a piece of sentimental jewellery from their finger .
“ The victim 's daughter left the house just minutes before so we ’ re looking into whether the offenders had been watching the address .
“ It was a brazen offence , the men having prized open the front door in the middle of the afternoon .
“ If anyone saw three men in the area acting suspiciously I ’ d urge them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see if the offenders have been caught on camera .
And I ’ d ask any motorists driving in the area and have dash-cam to also check their footage .
“ There will be people in the community who suspects who was involved .
Has someone you know been boasting about coming into some money or flashing cash around ?
“ I ’ d ask those people to look into their consciences and do the right thing and contact us ; this victim could have been your elderly mother or grandmother .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ we don ’ t need callers ’ names or contact details , we just want information to help us catch these despicable offenders.
” Anyone with information can call the independent charity Crimestoppers for free on 0800 555111 .
Calls are anonymous ; you won ’ t be asked your name and calls can not be traced .

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Vile thugs forced their way into an elderly woman's home and attempted to prise her diamond wedding ring off - leaving her with cuts and bruises.
The brazen thieves struck in broad daylight, crowbarring open the front door and assaulting the defenceless 92-year-old.
It's thought the thugs may have been watching the address, as they struck moments after the victim's daughter had left.
Detectives investigating the incident said "it's hard to imagine how anyone could sink so low".
The three heartless burglars tried in vain to remove the diamond ring – given to the elderly woman by her late husband – from her finger before fleeing with more than £1,000 in cash.
She had been saving the money to buy a new three-piece suite.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The thieves were white, aged in their 30s and all around 5ft 10ins tall.
Detectives are carrying out local enquiries and will be examining CCTV in the hope the crooks were caught on camera.
The men struck in Hockett Street, Cheylesmore, Coventry at 2.45pm on Wednesday, October 14.
Detective Constable Surinder Dadry from Force CID said: “It’s hard to imagine how anyone could sink so low as to assault an elderly woman and forcibly try to rip a piece of sentimental jewellery from their finger.
“The victim's daughter left the house just minutes before so we’re looking into whether the offenders had been watching the address.
“It was a brazen offence, the men having prized open the front door in the middle of the afternoon.
“If anyone saw three men in the area acting suspiciously I’d urge them to get in touch. Please check CCTV to see if the offenders have been caught on camera. And I’d ask any motorists driving in the area and have dash-cam to also check their footage.
“There will be people in the community who suspects who was involved. Has someone you know been boasting about coming into some money or flashing cash around?
“I’d ask those people to look into their consciences and do the right thing and contact us; this victim could have been your elderly mother or grandmother.
“People can contact us anonymously; we don’t need callers’ names or contact details, we just want information to help us catch these despicable offenders.”
Anyone with information can call the independent charity Crimestoppers for free on 0800 555111. Calls are anonymous; you won’t be asked your name and calls cannot be traced.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Birmingham City's Leko set to feature against Sheffield Wednesday

Jonathan Leko is edging closer to his Birmingham City debut after taking a full part in the training .
Coincidentally the 21-year-old could be set to make his Blues bow against the team he turned down , instead choosing Blues over Sheffield Wednesday .
The sides are due to meet at St Andrew ’ s on Saturday and while it would be a major surprise to see the £1million man in the starting line-up , having not played since December 2019 , he could well feature in the match-day squad .
“ He is good , he is training with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday in a game we played against each other , ” head coach Aitor Karanka said .
“ So let ’ s see when and how is the next step but I think he will be important for us because he is a player who can bring us something different .
“ He is a good player , he is powerful , he is quick , he is good in front of the goal , now we need to get him as fit as possible because it has been a long time since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t want to put a lot of pressure on him now thinking he is going to be the player who can score three goals every day .
He is going to help us for sure – but the right steps at the right time.
” Karanka is also considering when to bring Mikel San Jose into the starting line-up .
The 31-year-old is yet to play since his free transfer from Athletic Bilbao “ He is available and with seven games in three weeks he will have his chance .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know – whether it is going to be this Saturday or not .
“ We will see if it is this Saturday or the following Tuesday or the following Saturday – but Mikel is a player who everybody knows about him and he will be important for us .
”

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Jonathan Leko is edging closer to his Birmingham City debut after taking a full part in the training.
Coincidentally the 21-year-old could be set to make his Blues bow against the team he turned down, instead choosing Blues over Sheffield Wednesday.
The sides are due to meet at St Andrew’s on Saturday and while it would be a major surprise to see the £1million man in the starting line-up, having not played since December 2019, he could well feature in the match-day squad.
“He is good, he is training with us he played a few minutes last Friday in a game we played against each other,” head coach Aitor Karanka said.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“So let’s see when and how is the next step but I think he will be important for us because he is a player who can bring us something different.
“He is a good player, he is powerful, he is quick, he is good in front of the goal, now we need to get him as fit as possible because it has been a long time since he is out.
“I don’t want to put a lot of pressure on him now thinking he is going to be the player who can score three goals every day. He is going to help us for sure – but the right steps at the right time.”
Karanka is also considering when to bring Mikel San Jose into the starting line-up. The 31-year-old is yet to play since his free transfer from Athletic Bilbao
“He is available and with seven games in three weeks he will have his chance.
"I don’t know – actually I know – whether it is going to be this Saturday or not.
“We will see if it is this Saturday or the following Tuesday or the following Saturday – but Mikel is a player who everybody knows about him and he will be important for us.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Fears of a rise in crime if planned Wolverhampton care facility is approved

Plans to convert a Wolverhampton house into a care home for adults with learning difficulties has raised fears of an increase of crime in the area .
City of Wolverhampton Council planners are considering a proposal for creating a facility for up to seven people aged over 18 at the property in Tinacre Hill .
Applicants Sapphire Group Care Home Ltd said the centre would support people with learning and physical difficulties and be supported by four members of staff .
But a nearby resident said he fears the home would lead to an increase in offences in the crime-hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also objected to the proposed home being situated opposite Wightwick Hall School , which caters for children with special needs .
Resident Robin Winwood said : `` The road has already seen its fair share of burglaries and car theft and I have personally experienced this first hand in broad daylight .
`` Many of the residents have nice cars and they are already being targeted .
`` There are many of the homes occupied by elderly people who are already at risk of being targeted for burglary , and some have already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make this situation worse . ''
In their response , West Midlands Police said , in the last 12 months , the ward area had seen 132 anti-social behaviour offences reported , 84 vehicle crimes and 61 burglaries .
They said : `` West Midlands Police can not support this application due to the vulnerability issues of the school nearby and the other safety issues re : the lack of footpaths and poor street lighting .
`` Sapphire Group Care home LTD is a very young company which only set up in December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the home would be run by a manager with more than 25 years experience in the care sector .
They added : `` The facility will operate is as a non-institutional setting with residents living communally and operating as a single household in the same way as a large family would .
`` The proposal would be a sustainable form of development providing a caring and nurturing environment for future residents whilst empowering them to be as self managing as possible . ''

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Plans to convert a Wolverhampton house into a care home for adults with learning difficulties has raised fears of an increase of crime in the area.
City of Wolverhampton Council planners are considering a proposal for creating a facility for up to seven people aged over 18 at the property in Tinacre Hill.
Applicants Sapphire Group Care Home Ltd said the centre would support people with learning and physical difficulties and be supported by four members of staff.
But a nearby resident said he fears the home would lead to an increase in offences in the crime-hit area.
And West Midlands Police have also objected to the proposed home being situated opposite Wightwick Hall School, which caters for children with special needs.
Resident Robin Winwood said: "The road has already seen its fair share of burglaries and car theft and I have personally experienced this first hand in broad daylight.
"Many of the residents have nice cars and they are already being targeted.
"There are many of the homes occupied by elderly people who are already at risk of being targeted for burglary, and some have already been. Such a home
would only make this situation worse."
In their response, West Midlands Police said, in the last 12 months, the ward area had seen 132 anti-social behaviour offences reported, 84 vehicle crimes and 61 burglaries.
They said: "West Midlands Police cannot support this application due to the vulnerability issues of the school nearby and the other safety issues re: the lack of footpaths and poor street lighting.
"Sapphire Group Care home LTD is a very young company which only set up in December 2019."
Representatives for Sapphire said the home would be run by a manager with more than 25 years experience in the care sector.
They added: "The facility will operate is as a non-institutional setting with residents living communally and operating as a single household in the same way as a large family would.
"The proposal would be a sustainable form of development providing a caring and nurturing environment for future residents whilst empowering them to be as self managing as possible."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Warning new Covid rules will hit businesses "on the brink"

Many traders have been left `` on the brink of collapse '' by Covid-19 restrictions , a leading Solihull business body has warned .
The town centre 's Business Improvement District ( BID ) was speaking after the borough was subject to even stricter rules , which include a ban on people meeting with other households at pubs and restaurants .
Reacting to the news that Solihull had been classed as a `` high risk '' area - with tougher measures coming into force yesterday - the BID said it was more important than ever that residents supported local outlets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The new announcement from the government has left us with a divided kingdom .
`` Many businesses have already been pushed to the brink of collapse due to earlier restrictions and may not be able to go another round without collapse , the overall public tolerance for further restrictions is also starting to stutter .
`` Solihull remains in the high risk level , undaunted we will continue to support our dine out campaign encouraging visitors ( albeit now from one household ) to frequent the hospitality industry here who have worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safe and enjoyable one . ''
Outdoor seating areas in Mell Square and Theatre Square are designed to allow visitors to order and eat al-fresco .
And discount dining vouchers are also dropping on door mats across the borough to offer support during the crucial months ahead .
Ms Palmer said Solihull had a proud history of `` bucking the trend '' but the pandemic posed huge new challenges .
`` Research shows that whilst over 70 per cent of the public see it as Christmas as usual , over 55 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and will need strong reassurances to return to the high street .
`` Next week sees the start of our Shop Solihull , Shop Local campaign .
We will be posting videos of our amazing retailers , with a special offer in each to encourage you to support local , be it through clicks or mortar . ''
Mark Lee , from local chain Lovely Pubs , said businesses were working hard to adapt and paid tribute to the staff response .
`` Course there are challenges , but we are an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working model from takeaways , to al fresco dining , to limited service times or # BorisTime as we have named it !
`` Using what we have built over the last 35 years makes us more passionate to make it survive for the future . ''
Lovely Pubs runs popular hostelries including Mortons , at Dickens Heath , The Orange Tree , Chadwick End , and The Farm Inn , in Monkspath .
While Mr Lee welcomed government schemes such as August 's Eat Out to Help Out and the five per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that other steps would help .
`` [ We would seek ] salary support and for us as restaurateurs , producing fresh recipes , early notification of impending lockdowns , as money is tied into the stock holding of all our meat and fresh produce . ''
Solihull hotelier Rick Cressman , who owns Nailcote Hall , in Berkswell , this week tweeted that hospitality businesses were being `` destroyed '' by restrictions .
`` It really is time the Government started to think and plan much further ahead and give businesses support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Banks want us to be able to forecast the future and Government could help this process by making early decisions regarding VAT and Business Rates for 2021/22 now . ''
While there is mounting concern about new restrictions and the damage they could do to businesses , there are equally fears that the government 's three-tier local lockdown system does n't go far enough .
Some scientists warn that without decisive action , the second wave that started in September will continue to speed-up , threatening the NHS and costing many more lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with 169 cases per 100,000 and 365 positive tests recorded between October 5 and 11 .
While the acceleration has not been as steep as other parts of the country , the infection rate is nonetheless more than double the level of a month ago .
Cllr Rosemary Sexton , Solihull Green Party 's health spokeswoman , said the position was `` really quite worrying '' , with hospitalisations also now on the rise .
`` We are in a situation at the moment where it is the worst of both worlds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate and we have taken a large economic hit . ''
She said that the government had lost a lot of trust by failing to implement a successful Test and Trace programme - to keep cases under control .
She blamed this on a failure to give local officials control of the system in favour of large private companies .
`` I have got lots of criticisms but given where we are I can see there 's a need for action . ''
Ruth Tennant , the council 's director of public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help `` stem the rising tide of new cases '' and said that everyone should follow the rules without exceptions .
`` Our hospitals are now very concerned by the increase in people being hospitalised and the rise in number of people who are in intensive care with Covid .
This is now extremely serious .
“ These are people who were infected several weeks ago when our rates were lower .
I am very worried that as our rates continue to climb this can only mean more people becoming seriously ill .
@

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Many traders have been left "on the brink of collapse" by Covid-19 restrictions, a leading Solihull business body has warned.
The town centre's Business Improvement District (BID) was speaking after the borough was subject to even stricter rules, which include a ban on people meeting with other households at pubs and restaurants.
Reacting to the news that Solihull had been classed as a "high risk" area - with tougher measures coming into force yesterday - the BID said it was more important than ever that residents supported local outlets.
Chief executive Melanie Palmer said: "The new announcement from the government has left us with a divided kingdom.
"Many businesses have already been pushed to the brink of collapse due to earlier restrictions and may not be able to go another round without collapse, the overall public tolerance for further restrictions is also starting to stutter.
"Solihull remains in the high risk level , undaunted we will continue to support our dine out campaign encouraging visitors (albeit now from one household) to frequent the hospitality industry here who have worked so hard to make your return a safe and enjoyable one."
Outdoor seating areas in Mell Square and Theatre Square are designed to allow visitors to order and eat al-fresco.
And discount dining vouchers are also dropping on door mats across the borough to offer support during the crucial months ahead.
(Image: Solihull Council)
Ms Palmer said Solihull had a proud history of "bucking the trend" but the pandemic posed huge new challenges.
"Research shows that whilst over 70 per cent of the public see it as Christmas as usual, over 55 per cent are worried about the safety of shopping, and will need strong reassurances to return to the high street.
"Next week sees the start of our Shop Solihull, Shop Local campaign. We will be posting videos of our amazing retailers, with a special offer in each to encourage you to support local, be it through clicks or mortar."
Mark Lee, from local chain Lovely Pubs, said businesses were working hard to adapt and paid tribute to the staff response.
"Course there are challenges, but we are an amazing sector, able to flex our working model from takeaways, to al fresco dining, to limited service times or #BorisTime as we have named it!
"Using what we have built over the last 35 years makes us more passionate to make it survive for the future."
Lovely Pubs runs popular hostelries including Mortons, at Dickens Heath, The Orange Tree, Chadwick End, and The Farm Inn, in Monkspath.
While Mr Lee welcomed government schemes such as August's Eat Out to Help Out and the five per cent cut in VAT, he said that other steps would help.
"[We would seek] salary support and for us as restaurateurs, producing fresh recipes, early notification of impending lockdowns, as money is tied into the stock holding of all our meat and fresh produce."
Solihull hotelier Rick Cressman, who owns Nailcote Hall, in Berkswell, this week tweeted that hospitality businesses were being "destroyed" by restrictions.
"It really is time the Government started to think and plan much further ahead and give businesses support as well as their employees!
"Banks want us to be able to forecast the future and Government could help this process by making early decisions regarding VAT and Business Rates for 2021/22 now."
While there is mounting concern about new restrictions and the damage they could do to businesses, there are equally fears that the government's three-tier local lockdown system doesn't go far enough.
Some scientists warn that without decisive action, the second wave that started in September will continue to speed-up, threatening the NHS and costing many more lives.
Infections continue to rise in Solihull, with 169 cases per 100,000 and 365 positive tests recorded between October 5 and 11.
While the acceleration has not been as steep as other parts of the country, the infection rate is nonetheless more than double the level of a month ago.
Cllr Rosemary Sexton, Solihull Green Party's health spokeswoman, said the position was "really quite worrying", with hospitalisations also now on the rise.
"We are in a situation at the moment where it is the worst of both worlds, we are getting a rising infection rate and we have taken a large economic hit."
She said that the government had lost a lot of trust by failing to implement a successful Test and Trace programme - to keep cases under control.
She blamed this on a failure to give local officials control of the system in favour of large private companies.
What are the rules for Tier 2 - "High risk" Alongside Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton and Sandwell, Solihull is classed as a Tier 2 area - which is the middle zone in terms of risk. Tier 1 (medium) has the standard national rules and Tier 3 (high risk) - which currently only covers the Liverpool area, has even tighter controls. The rules for Tier 2 include: A ban on socialising with anybody outside of your household or support bubble in any indoor setting - either at home or in a public place.
A ban on socialising in groups of more than six outside, including in a private garden or park (unless there is a specific exemption for the activity).
The likes of pubs and restaurants must still stick to the 10pm curfew announced in September.
Schools and places of worship can remain open.
Weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the number of attendees (a maximum of 15 and 30 people respectively).
Exercise classes and organised sport can continue to take place outdoors.
People can continue to travel but should look to reduce the number of journeys where possible. Working from home where possible is advised.
"I have got lots of criticisms but given where we are I can see there's a need for action."
Ruth Tennant, the council's director of public health, had this week implored people to help "stem the rising tide of new cases" and said that everyone should follow the rules without exceptions.
"Our hospitals are now very concerned by the increase in people being hospitalised and the rise in number of people who are in intensive care with Covid. This is now extremely serious.
“These are people who were infected several weeks ago when our rates were lower. I am very worried that as our rates continue to climb this can only mean more people becoming seriously ill."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Army could help deliver Covid vaccine to thousands of people a day

The Army could be drafted in to help with the `` massive '' effort to deliver tens of thousands of Covid-19 vaccines a day .
Solihull Council this week hosted a meeting at which councillors from both the borough and neighbouring Birmingham were briefed on preparations for the mass inoculation of people across the region .
Health chiefs told the joint committee that planning was being ramped up , working on the basis that the jab would be available in the coming months .
Although the Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group ( CCG ) was quick to say that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a vaccine would be ready .
While some hold out hope it could be signed-off this side of Christmas , many scientists and public health chiefs warn that the roll-out is far more likely to begin in 2021 .
Phil Johns , the CCG 's deputy chief executive , said that administering it would be a `` huge '' undertaking given that the vaccine was likely to need two doses and could overlap with the usual flu immunisation .
Key challenges would include redeploying staff to manage the job and reassuring the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an increasingly vocal `` anti-vaxx '' movement .
`` We are in the preparatory phase of how we work up what we would need to do , '' he told councillors .
`` At the moment trying to identify the right number of locations and what workforce would be required , and workforce would be a key challenge - we 'd have to take a lot of our staff off of their current tasks to be involved in jabbing of patients . ''
It 's understood the scale of the task would involve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Cllr Diana Holl-Allen , who chaired the meeting , asked about reports that members of the Armed Forces would be mobilised to provide extra manpower .
Mr Johns confirmed that RAF personnel were already on the ground assisting with Covid-19 tests in Birmingham and that the military had also been deployed to get the NEC 's Nightingale Hospital up-and-running .
`` I 'm sure there will be the military assistance in the logistics around this programme again , '' he said .
Developing a vaccine is seen as the single most potent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with labs around the world in the middle of intensive trials .
Although even once one is found to be both effective and safe , experts have warned it will be many months ' work to get it out to the population .
It is likely high-risk groups will be the priority to begin with and a senior academic at Oxford University has suggested the UK would be unlikely to return to normal until at least July least year .

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The Army could be drafted in to help with the "massive" effort to deliver tens of thousands of Covid-19 vaccines a day.
Solihull Council this week hosted a meeting at which councillors from both the borough and neighbouring Birmingham were briefed on preparations for the mass inoculation of people across the region.
Health chiefs told the joint committee that planning was being ramped up, working on the basis that the jab would be available in the coming months.
Although the Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) was quick to say that no date had been confirmed for when a vaccine would be ready.
While some hold out hope it could be signed-off this side of Christmas, many scientists and public health chiefs warn that the roll-out is far more likely to begin in 2021.
Phil Johns, the CCG's deputy chief executive, said that administering it would be a "huge" undertaking given that the vaccine was likely to need two doses and could overlap with the usual flu immunisation.
(Image: Solihull Council webcast)
Key challenges would include redeploying staff to manage the job and reassuring the public that the vaccine was safe, given an increasingly vocal "anti-vaxx" movement.
"We are in the preparatory phase of how we work up what we would need to do," he told councillors.
"At the moment trying to identify the right number of locations and what workforce would be required, and workforce would be a key challenge - we'd have to take a lot of our staff off of their current tasks to be involved in jabbing of patients."
It's understood the scale of the task would involve 21,000 jabs a day for three months.
Cllr Diana Holl-Allen, who chaired the meeting, asked about reports that members of the Armed Forces would be mobilised to provide extra manpower.
Mr Johns confirmed that RAF personnel were already on the ground assisting with Covid-19 tests in Birmingham and that the military had also been deployed to get the NEC's Nightingale Hospital up-and-running.
"I'm sure there will be the military assistance in the logistics around this programme again," he said.
Developing a vaccine is seen as the single most potent weapon in the fight against the virus, with labs around the world in the middle of intensive trials.
Although even once one is found to be both effective and safe, experts have warned it will be many months' work to get it out to the population.
It is likely high-risk groups will be the priority to begin with and a senior academic at Oxford University has suggested the UK would be unlikely to return to normal until at least July least year.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter is getting a new independent supermarket

An independent supermarket is coming to Birmingham - and creating jobs in the process .
Roots , the birthchild of a chef and entrepreneur , is a new initiative set to become a reality in the Jewellery Quarter , in Birmingham , by mid-November .
Andrew Goldsby , the operator , will transform a 1,800 sq ft unit in the JQ into a new market on Warstone Lane .
Roots will offer locally sourced , seasonal and organic food , ready-prepared meals and cook-at-home recipe boxes made on site in a dedicated kitchen and a range of natural vitamins , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BirminghamLive 's sister title , reports there will also be around 70 dispensers akin to a pick ‘ n ' mix stand , dramatically cutting plastic waste .
Inspired by markets of a similar ilk in France , Mr Goldsby says : `` When I came back to England there were just chain supermarkets everywhere so I thought to myself that I would like to do something different here . ''
He adds : `` Looking at the site in the Jewellery Quarter , it is just in a prime location in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sense to launch this there .
`` I am still surprised that no-one has actually done this already and I think there 's a huge gap in the market for this type of supermarket as everyone I talk to seems to feel very negatively towards the chains .
`` We are fully confident that it 's going to work , especially where we are . ''
Mr Goldsby returned to his home city in 2017 after 15 years in France and was recently renovating properties before deciding to launch the supermarket .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open multiple venues including more in Birmingham and had already considered sites on the Calthorpe Estate in Edgbaston .
He added : `` We definitely want to do more than one supermarket , just to give the public some choice .
`` The long-term aim is to take the company nationwide .
`` We 're not overly ambitious but we do want to do more over the next five to ten years '' There is room for a couple more in Birmingham at least and then aiming at places like Oxford , Stratford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind of towns . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Tamlyn Jones, James Rodger)

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An independent supermarket is coming to Birmingham - and creating jobs in the process.
Roots, the birthchild of a chef and entrepreneur, is a new initiative set to become a reality in the Jewellery Quarter, in Birmingham, by mid-November.
Andrew Goldsby, the operator, will transform a 1,800 sq ft unit in the JQ into a new market on Warstone Lane.
Roots will offer locally sourced, seasonal and organic food, ready-prepared meals and cook-at-home recipe boxes made on site in a dedicated kitchen and a range of natural vitamins, supplements and grooming products.
BusinessLive, BirminghamLive's sister title, reports there will also be around 70 dispensers akin to a pick ‘n' mix stand, dramatically cutting plastic waste.
Inspired by markets of a similar ilk in France, Mr Goldsby says: "When I came back to England there were just chain supermarkets everywhere so I thought to myself that I would like to do something different here."
He adds: "Looking at the site in the Jewellery Quarter, it is just in a prime location in the middle of two Tescos and it made sense to launch this there.
"I am still surprised that no-one has actually done this already and I think there's a huge gap in the market for this type of supermarket as everyone I talk to seems to feel very negatively towards the chains.
"We are fully confident that it's going to work, especially where we are."
Mr Goldsby returned to his home city in 2017 after 15 years in France and was recently renovating properties before deciding to launch the supermarket.
The 42-year-old told BusinessLive he was planning to open multiple venues including more in Birmingham and had already considered sites on the Calthorpe Estate in Edgbaston.
He added: "We definitely want to do more than one supermarket, just to give the public some choice.
"The long-term aim is to take the company nationwide.
"We're not overly ambitious but we do want to do more over the next five to ten years
"There is room for a couple more in Birmingham at least and then aiming at places like Oxford, Stratford, Worcester and Leamington Spa, those kind of towns."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--First images of new £300k wildlife-themed play area in park

These are the first images of a new wildlife-themed play area and amphitheatre which are heading to a Worcestershire park .
Redditch ’ s Arrow Valley Country Park will be home to a 9m high tree house play tower as the centrepiece of a new playground with sensory play , toddler area , trampoline , zip wire and an amphitheatre .
The eye-catching plans are part of a £300,000 redevelopment .
Playground designers Kompan have been chosen by Redditch Borough Council to revamp a play area in Arrow Valley and offer a new area for performers with completion expected by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visitors to the park last year , the new design has been based as ‘ closely as possible ’ on this feedback and the brand-new play area .
The nine-metre tower is subject to planning permission and will be discussed at a future planning committee , while work on the rest of the designs will start during the winter period to ‘ reduce the impact on park users ’ .
The council said it is hoped that the play park will be in place by the end of the year , but this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions and planning permission .
The work , which will cost just over £300k , aims to bring families closer to nature with an Arrow Valley wildlife-themed play park that includes a toddler area , zip wire , trampolines , a number of accessible and inclusive pieces of equipment for both wheelchair users and autistic visitors , redesigned pedestrian routes and reimagined adult seating .
As part of the new offer , Kompan will also be developing a small amphitheatre with tiered seating , to improve the general open space , which can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , entertainment , live music , group yoga or exercise sessions .
There will also be several new benches placed around the area so that families can make use of the space for picnics .
Cllr Mike Rouse , deputy leader and leisure portfolio holder for the council , said : “ People told us they want more good things especially for our town ’ s young people and this certainly delivers .
“ Along with the improved cafe offering at the lake , come next spring you and your family will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and adventure .
“ You ’ ll be blown away .
I know I am .
See you there !
” While Cllr Matt Dormer , leader of Redditch Council , said : “ Our parks have been more important than ever during the pandemic , so I am really pleased that the play area will be getting a well-deserved makeover in the coming months .
“ Step by step we are continuing to unlock the potential of our borough and improve our offer for residents and visitors.
” When completed , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launch event for local families .
Kompan area manager , Rob Heard , added : “ Kompan are a world lead manufacturer of play equipment and are thrilled to have been chosen to deliver such a prestigious play project .
As a local resident and regular user of the park myself I know how welcome these new facilities will be to the people of Redditch .
”

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These are the first images of a new wildlife-themed play area and amphitheatre which are heading to a Worcestershire park.
Redditch ’s Arrow Valley Country Park will be home to a 9m high tree house play tower as the centrepiece of a new playground with sensory play, toddler area, trampoline, zip wire and an amphitheatre.
The eye-catching plans are part of a £300,000 redevelopment.
Playground designers Kompan have been chosen by Redditch Borough Council to revamp a play area in Arrow Valley and offer a new area for performers with completion expected by next spring.
After completing consultations with visitors to the park last year, the new design has been based as ‘closely as possible’ on this feedback and the brand-new play area.
The nine-metre tower is subject to planning permission and will be discussed at a future planning committee, while work on the rest of the designs will start during the winter period to ‘reduce the impact on park users’.
The council said it is hoped that the play park will be in place by the end of the year, but this will be dependent on weather, Covid restrictions and planning permission.
The work, which will cost just over £300k, aims to bring families closer to nature with an Arrow Valley wildlife-themed play park that includes a toddler area, zip wire, trampolines, a number of accessible and inclusive pieces of equipment for both wheelchair users and autistic visitors, redesigned pedestrian routes and reimagined adult seating.
As part of the new offer, Kompan will also be developing a small amphitheatre with tiered seating, to improve the general open space, which can be used for outdoor or street theatre, entertainment, live music, group yoga or exercise sessions. There will also be several new benches placed around the area so that families can make use of the space for picnics.
Cllr Mike Rouse, deputy leader and leisure portfolio holder for the council, said: “People told us they want more good things especially for our town’s young people and this certainly delivers.
“Along with the improved cafe offering at the lake, come next spring you and your family will be able to enjoy hours of outdoor fun and adventure.
“You’ll be blown away. I know I am. See you there!”
While Cllr Matt Dormer, leader of Redditch Council, said: “Our parks have been more important than ever during the pandemic, so I am really pleased that the play area will be getting a well-deserved makeover in the coming months.
“Step by step we are continuing to unlock the potential of our borough and improve our offer for residents and visitors.”
When completed, the council and Kompan will be hosting a launch event for local families.
Kompan area manager, Rob Heard, added: “Kompan are a world lead manufacturer of play equipment and are thrilled to have been chosen to deliver such a prestigious play project. As a local resident and regular user of the park myself I know how welcome these new facilities will be to the people of Redditch.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Morrisons, Boots and John Lewis all issue announcements over 7 products

If you 're a shopper at Morrisons , Boots or John Lewis , then you 've been warned of some major changes to the retailers ' festive ranges .
Christmas is coming - and , if you plan on getting bits and bobs from Morrisons , Boots or John Lewis , then you need to take notice .
Pharmacy giant Boots operates multiple stores across the West Midlands , including in Birmingham city centre , from Brindleyplace to the Bullring .
Morrisons , meanwhile , operates supermarkets across the city , including in Hagley Road , with John Lewis operating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no longer in Brum .
At each of the chains this year , glitter is being axed .
There will be no shiny stuff on your cards or packaging .
It comes as retailers try to deliver a more eco-friendly festive season this year .
Crackers , cards , wrapping paper , present bags , flowers , plants and wreaths are now 100 % glitter-free .
Glitter is made from tiny particles of plastic and is an ecological hazard if it becomes dispersed on land , rivers and oceans - where it takes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home director Christine Bryce said : `` Every time a cracker is pulled , or a card is opened , plastics have been used ... but just the once .
`` We 've taken glitter and plastic out of our festive range this year , so that our customers can enjoy their festivities without worrying about the environmental impact . ''
Morrisons estimates it will be removing more than 50 tonnes of plastic from its shelves during the festive period , due to the glitter ban and its drive to reduce plastic in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games and gifts will now be made out of paper , metal or wood and are designed to be kept and reused .
Cracker shells will be made from Forest Stewardship Council accredited cardboard and decorated with a metallic based ink .
The amount of plastic packaging on cards and decorations has also been stripped back .
Felt , hessian and wooden decorations are being stocked .
Boots UK has also joined up with BBC Earth on a range of bathroom gifts which it says are kinder to the planet and which will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 990,000 plastic bottles .

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If you're a shopper at Morrisons, Boots or John Lewis, then you've been warned of some major changes to the retailers' festive ranges.
Christmas is coming - and, if you plan on getting bits and bobs from Morrisons, Boots or John Lewis, then you need to take notice.
Pharmacy giant Boots operates multiple stores across the West Midlands, including in Birmingham city centre, from Brindleyplace to the Bullring.
Morrisons, meanwhile, operates supermarkets across the city, including in Hagley Road, with John Lewis operating department stores across the country - albeit no longer in Brum.
At each of the chains this year, glitter is being axed. There will be no shiny stuff on your cards or packaging.
It comes as retailers try to deliver a more eco-friendly festive season this year.
Crackers, cards, wrapping paper, present bags, flowers, plants and wreaths are now 100% glitter-free.
Glitter is made from tiny particles of plastic and is an ecological hazard if it becomes dispersed on land, rivers and oceans - where it takes hundreds of years to degrade.
Morrisons home director Christine Bryce said: "Every time a cracker is pulled, or a card is opened, plastics have been used ... but just the once.
"We've taken glitter and plastic out of our festive range this year, so that our customers can enjoy their festivities without worrying about the environmental impact."
Morrisons estimates it will be removing more than 50 tonnes of plastic from its shelves during the festive period, due to the glitter ban and its drive to reduce plastic in its Christmas ranges.
Items such as games and gifts will now be made out of paper, metal or wood and are designed to be kept and reused.
Cracker shells will be made from Forest Stewardship Council accredited cardboard and decorated with a metallic based ink.
The amount of plastic packaging on cards and decorations has also been stripped back. Felt, hessian and wooden decorations are being stocked.
Boots UK has also joined up with BBC Earth on a range of bathroom gifts which it says are kinder to the planet and which will help save the equivalent of more than 990,000 plastic bottles.