birminghammail--2020-06-05--Tamworth couple who survived coronavirus donate blood plasma

A Tamworth couple who survived coronavirus have participated in a potentially historic clinical trial in a bid to help save others .
As part of a national research response to the Covid 19 outbreak , the NHS is leading a programme to collect convalescent blood plasma from people who have recovered from coronavirus .
This will then be used in a national clinical trial to improve the recovery of people with the virus .
On Saturday , Steve and Diane Bridgen , aged 50 and 51 , from Gungate , did exactly that at the NHSBT Birmingham Blood Donor Centre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having this and getting through is giving back to people who are not getting better , ” explains Diane who said it was ‘ painless and easy ’ .
“ Obviously I don ’ t feel lucky to do it because I have had the virus in the first place .
`` To have it is scary but if you know you can do some good for somebody from it then why would you not ?
“ They are transfusing it into someone who can ’ t get better because they haven ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is going to be a part of history if it works .
“ I didn ’ t give it a second thought .
I wouldn ’ t want anyone going through the scariness of someone being put on a ventilator and not knowing if they are going to wake up again .
“ It is satisfying to know we can do something worthwhile after such an awful experience.
” “ It was a bit surreal , ” admits Steve , who owns Central Hub Logistics Ltd with Diane .
“ It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people will talk to their grand kids and they will say ‘ what was it like granddad ?
’ and we gave plasma .
`` We definitely felt we had done something right and achieved something .
“ I have had it and come out the other side so obviously my body has fought it and at the end of the day it might help somebody who isn ’ t growing any antibodies .
That is what it is all about .
“ I have got no regrets , far from it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in two weeks if we have good antibodies to see if we would do it again and I would have no qualms at all about that .
`` We were made very welcome and they really looked after us.
” Recalling the experience , Diane , who also believes her mum died of coronavirus earlier this year although that has not been officially registered as her cause of death , said : “ We were asked 120 questions , everything about you and your partners ’ health you could think of .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a nurse and discuss everything that happened when we had the symptoms and you have an iron test and they test your pulse and go through your questionnaire .
`` They put something round the top of your arm to bring your veins out .
“ You are on this sort of seat and they put everything in your arm and the machine starts .
You are on it for 45 minutes .
`` It is not just taking blood .
They take it out , spin it round in a machine and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arm and the plasma goes into a bag .
“ It kind of does 30 seconds drawing the blood out of your arm and 30 seconds going back in and you can see the machine .
“ Not everyone can participate .
You have to know you ’ ve had it as the screen takes so much time they need people who are not on medications and had strong symptoms and you have to have had it no sooner than 28 days as you have to let the antibodies produce.
” The couple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Diane ’ s mum in hospital although admit to at first being in denial .
Steve remembered : “ In my head because of everything that was happening with our business I thought ‘ I haven ’ t got time for this , I have got so much to do ’ .
“ People were being furloughed and my workload went up considerably .
I was wearing many hats and I was in a little bit of denial .
I didn ’ t want to believe I had got it .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that didn ’ t come out until recently as part of the symptoms so I actually thought I had got some sort of bug .
Then I lost my sense of smell and taste .
`` My temperature was ridiculous .
I got out of bed and it was like I had had a bucket of water thrown over me , I couldn ’ t be any more wet through .
As I was breathing out it sounded like popping candy .
“ Thankfully we have come through the other end and are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effects.
” During the pandemic , the couple ’ s company have donated a pallet of water to Tamworth Food Bank , delivered for NHS and supermarkets and even helped out Royal Mail .
The couple would also like to thank Sunningdale Care Home for their support following Diane ’ s mum ’ s death .
To find out more about how to donate plasma go to https : //www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/covid-19-research/

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
A Tamworth couple who survived coronavirus have participated in a potentially historic clinical trial in a bid to help save others.
As part of a national research response to the Covid 19 outbreak, the NHS is leading a programme to collect convalescent blood plasma from people who have recovered from coronavirus. This will then be used in a national clinical trial to improve the recovery of people with the virus.
On Saturday, Steve and Diane Bridgen, aged 50 and 51, from Gungate, did exactly that at the NHSBT Birmingham Blood Donor Centre.
“A really big part of having this and getting through is giving back to people who are not getting better,” explains Diane who said it was ‘painless and easy’.
“Obviously I don’t feel lucky to do it because I have had the virus in the first place.
"To have it is scary but if you know you can do some good for somebody from it then why would you not?
“They are transfusing it into someone who can’t get better because they haven’t got their own immunity.
"This is going to be a part of history if it works.
“I didn’t give it a second thought. I wouldn’t want anyone going through the scariness of someone being put on a ventilator and not knowing if they are going to wake up again.
“It is satisfying to know we can do something worthwhile after such an awful experience.”
“It was a bit surreal,” admits Steve, who owns Central Hub Logistics Ltd with Diane. “It is historical.
“In years to come people will talk to their grand kids and they will say ‘what was it like granddad?’ and we gave plasma.
"We definitely felt we had done something right and achieved something.
“I have had it and come out the other side so obviously my body has fought it and at the end of the day it might help somebody who isn’t growing any antibodies. That is what it is all about.
“I have got no regrets, far from it. They said they will be in touch in two weeks if we have good antibodies to see if we would do it again and I would have no qualms at all about that.
"We were made very welcome and they really looked after us.”
Recalling the experience, Diane, who also believes her mum died of coronavirus earlier this year although that has not been officially registered as her cause of death, said: “We were asked 120 questions, everything about you and your partners’ health you could think of.
“Then we had to go in with a nurse and discuss everything that happened when we had the symptoms and you have an iron test and they test your pulse and go through your questionnaire.
"They put something round the top of your arm to bring your veins out.
“You are on this sort of seat and they put everything in your arm and the machine starts. You are on it for 45 minutes.
"It is not just taking blood. They take it out, spin it round in a machine and then they send it back into your arm and the plasma goes into a bag.
“It kind of does 30 seconds drawing the blood out of your arm and 30 seconds going back in and you can see the machine.
“Not everyone can participate. You have to know you’ve had it as the screen takes so much time they need people who are not on medications and had strong symptoms and you have to have had it no sooner than 28 days as you have to let the antibodies produce.”
The couple think they contracted the virus from visiting Diane’s mum in hospital although admit to at first being in denial.
Steve remembered: “In my head because of everything that was happening with our business I thought ‘I haven’t got time for this, I have got so much to do’.
“People were being furloughed and my workload went up considerably. I was wearing many hats and I was in a little bit of denial. I didn’t want to believe I had got it.
“It sort of started with stomach cramps but that didn’t come out until recently as part of the symptoms so I actually thought I had got some sort of bug. Then I lost my sense of smell and taste.
"My temperature was ridiculous. I got out of bed and it was like I had had a bucket of water thrown over me, I couldn’t be any more wet through. As I was breathing out it sounded like popping candy.
“Thankfully we have come through the other end and are absolutely fine and there are no after effects.”
During the pandemic, the couple’s company have donated a pallet of water to Tamworth Food Bank, delivered for NHS and supermarkets and even helped out Royal Mail.
The couple would also like to thank Sunningdale Care Home for their support following Diane’s mum’s death.
To find out more about how to donate plasma go to https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/covid-19-research/


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Muslim leaders call for mourner restrictions to be relaxed

Birmingham City Council are being urged to end the 'tragedy ' of restricted funeral sizes by increasing the maximum attendance from 16 to 30 .
Writing to the council , Jawad Khan chairman of the Birmingham Council of Mosques , says that an increase is necessary to allow friends and family the chance to read the Salat ul Janazah prayer before laying their loved ones to rest .
Last week the council announced it would be expanding the maximum number of attendees at funerals from six to 16 , with the former limit imposed due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council where the maximum number of attendees currently stands at 30 , Mr Khan says that his group have consulted with ' a number of councillors and funeral directors ' who he says are 'fully supportive ' of increasing the number once more to 30 .
The letter , which has been signed by more than 35 leading figures and establishments from across the city , reads : '' One major impact has been the reduction in the number of mourners who can attend a funeral service .
`` Within the Muslim community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a part of the Islamic funeral ritual .
The prayer is performed at a mosque , in congregation , to seek pardon for the deceased and all dead Muslims from Our Creator .
`` The Janazah prayer is an essential part of healing during bereavement .
`` The reading of the Janazah prayer is something that should be done in congregation and is also something that Muslims want to be a part of for their loved ones .
Currently immediate family members are not being given the opportunity to partake in the funeral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a major effect in the community .
`` It is a tragedy that loved ones of the immediate family of a deceased individual are being denied this opportunity to pray for their deceased , pay their respects and to have some form of closure .
`` We sincerely hope you can honour this request for all Birmingham Mosques . ''
The letter goes on to acknowledge that such measures would not be possible for the deaths of Covid-19 victims , but does ask that in these cases 30 mourners are able to gather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conduct the Janazah prayer .
It also states that strict social distancing measures would remain in place if the number is increased by the council .
Back when restrictions were first introduced former cabinet member Majid Mahmood wrote to the leader of the council asking for an increase in mourner numbers , stating : `` This is causing anxiety amongst a lot of Muslim families in the city .
`` Due to the current Covid-19 crisis visitors are not permitted to visit patients at hospital .
As such the only time grieving families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the funeral and we are preventing people from doing so .
`` I believe we can , and we should increase the number of people who can attend funerals provided all wear appropriate PPE , and attendees are kept more than 2 metres apart . ''
Councillor Ward is yet to respond to the letter .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Brummie Muslims Newsletter straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Brummie Muslims Newsletter straight to your inbox
Birmingham City Council are being urged to end the 'tragedy' of restricted funeral sizes by increasing the maximum attendance from 16 to 30.
Writing to the council, Jawad Khan chairman of the Birmingham Council of Mosques, says that an increase is necessary to allow friends and family the chance to read the Salat ul Janazah prayer before laying their loved ones to rest.
Last week the council announced it would be expanding the maximum number of attendees at funerals from six to 16, with the former limit imposed due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
But, pointing to neighbouring Sandwell Council where the maximum number of attendees currently stands at 30, Mr Khan says that his group have consulted with 'a number of councillors and funeral directors' who he says are 'fully supportive' of increasing the number once more to 30.
The letter, which has been signed by more than 35 leading figures and establishments from across the city, reads:
"One major impact has been the reduction in the number of mourners who can attend a funeral service.
"Within the Muslim community reading the Salat ul Janazah prayer is a part of the Islamic funeral ritual. The prayer is performed at a mosque, in congregation, to seek pardon for the deceased and all dead Muslims from Our Creator.
(Image: David Betts Photography)
"The Janazah prayer is an essential part of healing during bereavement.
"The reading of the Janazah prayer is something that should be done in congregation and is also something that Muslims want to be a part of for their loved ones. Currently immediate family members are not being given the opportunity to partake in the funeral of loved ones and this is having a major effect in the community.
"It is a tragedy that loved ones of the immediate family of a deceased individual are being denied this opportunity to pray for their deceased, pay their respects and to have some form of closure.
"We sincerely hope you can honour this request for all Birmingham Mosques."
The letter goes on to acknowledge that such measures would not be possible for the deaths of Covid-19 victims, but does ask that in these cases 30 mourners are able to gather outside at the burial grounds, to conduct the Janazah prayer. It also states that strict social distancing measures would remain in place if the number is increased by the council.
Back when restrictions were first introduced former cabinet member Majid Mahmood wrote to the leader of the council asking for an increase in mourner numbers, stating: "This is causing anxiety amongst a lot of Muslim families in the city.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"Due to the current Covid-19 crisis visitors are not permitted to visit patients at hospital. As such the only time grieving families get to say their goodbyes would be at the funeral and we are preventing people from doing so.
"I believe we can, and we should increase the number of people who can attend funerals provided all wear appropriate PPE, and attendees are kept more than 2 metres apart."
Councillor Ward is yet to respond to the letter.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Tamworth dad delivers baby at home on other son's birthday!

An heroic Tamworth dad delivered his newborn baby at home - on the same day as his other son ’ s birthday !
Little Reggie and Archie now share the same birthday of Saturday , May 30 after Sam Holloway sprang into action when mum Ella Eastwood was feeling contractions .
Engaged couple Sam and Ella , aged 27 and 25 , from Amington , are now the proud parents of Reggie after he was born at 7.26am , weighing 7 lbs 15 .
“ It is all a bit of a blur to be honest , ” admits Sam @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in shock that everything went so well ; better than I even could have planned .
We were in and out of hospital in four hours , the last time we were in for eight days .
“ With Archie we had a bit of a bad labour so I was scared but the woman on the phone guided me through everything from start to finish .
“ I knew that I had to help Ella , make sure she was ok and deliver this baby as best as I could.
” Ella @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hero .
Not only did he reassure me throughout the whole thing but he delivered our son safely .
“ It is hard to find the words because it is such a weird and amazing feeling .
It was an incredible , rare day and very eventful .
“ I don ’ t think it has sunken yet .
It is crazy to think that actually happened .
I still can ’ t believe it .
`` I keep saying to Sam ‘ you delivered our baby ’ .
I think we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and maybe after a week or so with a few restless nights it will sink in.
” Ella had woken up on Saturday “ feeling a bit different to normal ” .
They both decided to get up and Sam went on his exercise bike while Ella blew up Archie ’ s birthday balloons .
By 7am a few presents had been opened but little did they know what was about to happen !
“ I had a photo taken with him and then my contractions came quite strong so I decided to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to worry him and he could carry on with his birthday , ” Ella remembers .
“ Sam came upstairs to check how I was and all of a sudden I had the urge to push so I replied ‘ you need to call an ambulance ’ .
“ They rushed over as quickly as they could but he was just coming too quickly so the lady on the phone said he was going to have to deliver the baby .
It was scary .
`` Archie had come upstairs as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calm .
“ Everything that the lady was saying he did .
Every second I was saying ‘ are they nearly here ?
’ .
“ Archie is loving being a big brother .
I was worried he would be jealous but as soon as we came home he was giving Reggie his blanket and trying to give him a toy .
He has took to being a brother really well.
” Sam recalls : “ Ella wasn ’ t due until June 6 so I didn ’ t really expect anything to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
She woke up with pains but we didn ’ t worry too much .
“ She went upstairs and I went up to check on her and she said I have to call 999 .
I was thinking they would be here in a couple of minutes and I could let the professionals do it .
“ I was speaking to the woman and she asked if I could see the head which I couldn ’ t but then all of a sudden I could !
“ I was a little @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do I do ?
I don ’ t think I have long ’ .
`` I had to put Ella into a certain position and then the baby started coming .
`` Their biggest concern was him coming so quick so I had to kind of push back on the baby so he didn ’ t come so fast .
“ I delivered the baby and then probably six or seven minutes later the paramedics arrived .
Reggie is fantastic , he is a right little brute already !
He passed all his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Archie has been an absolute Godsend , he has given him his blanket that he has held in his possession for the last three and a bit years .
They are my pride and joy , three years apart .
`` I think it is going to be trouble having their 18th and 21st on the same day !
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
An heroic Tamworth dad delivered his newborn baby at home - on the same day as his other son’s birthday!
Little Reggie and Archie now share the same birthday of Saturday, May 30 after Sam Holloway sprang into action when mum Ella Eastwood was feeling contractions.
Engaged couple Sam and Ella, aged 27 and 25, from Amington, are now the proud parents of Reggie after he was born at 7.26am, weighing 7 lbs 15.
“It is all a bit of a blur to be honest,” admits Sam.
“I think I am still in shock that everything went so well; better than I even could have planned. We were in and out of hospital in four hours, the last time we were in for eight days.
“With Archie we had a bit of a bad labour so I was scared but the woman on the phone guided me through everything from start to finish.
“I knew that I had to help Ella, make sure she was ok and deliver this baby as best as I could.”
Ella added: “He is just a hero. Not only did he reassure me throughout the whole thing but he delivered our son safely.
“It is hard to find the words because it is such a weird and amazing feeling. It was an incredible, rare day and very eventful.
“I don’t think it has sunken yet. It is crazy to think that actually happened. I still can’t believe it.
"I keep saying to Sam ‘you delivered our baby’. I think we are all in a bubble at the moment and maybe after a week or so with a few restless nights it will sink in.”
Ella had woken up on Saturday “feeling a bit different to normal”.
They both decided to get up and Sam went on his exercise bike while Ella blew up Archie’s birthday balloons.
By 7am a few presents had been opened but little did they know what was about to happen!
“I had a photo taken with him and then my contractions came quite strong so I decided to go upstairs as I didn’t want to worry him and he could carry on with his birthday,” Ella remembers.
“Sam came upstairs to check how I was and all of a sudden I had the urge to push so I replied ‘you need to call an ambulance’.
“They rushed over as quickly as they could but he was just coming too quickly so the lady on the phone said he was going to have to deliver the baby. It was scary.
"Archie had come upstairs as well so Sam was trying to keep him calm.
“Everything that the lady was saying he did. Every second I was saying ‘ are they nearly here?’.
“Archie is loving being a big brother. I was worried he would be jealous but as soon as we came home he was giving Reggie his blanket and trying to give him a toy. He has took to being a brother really well.”
Sam recalls: “Ella wasn’t due until June 6 so I didn’t really expect anything to happen and wasn’t thinking about it. She woke up with pains but we didn’t worry too much.
“She went upstairs and I went up to check on her and she said I have to call 999. I was thinking they would be here in a couple of minutes and I could let the professionals do it.
“I was speaking to the woman and she asked if I could see the head which I couldn’t but then all of a sudden I could!
“I was a little bit shell shocked and said ‘what do I do? I don’t think I have long’.
"I had to put Ella into a certain position and then the baby started coming.
"Their biggest concern was him coming so quick so I had to kind of push back on the baby so he didn’t come so fast.
“I delivered the baby and then probably six or seven minutes later the paramedics arrived. Reggie is fantastic, he is a right little brute already! He passed all his checks. He is perfect.
“Archie has been an absolute Godsend, he has given him his blanket that he has held in his possession for the last three and a bit years. They are my pride and joy, three years apart.
"I think it is going to be trouble having their 18th and 21st on the same day!”


birminghammail--2020-06-05--New Northamptonshire news site launches

New Northamptonshire news site launches

BirminghamLive now has a new sister site for Northamptonshire .
NorthantsLive has been set up to bring readers the latest news , entertainment , sport , nostalgia and agenda-setting content from the county .
Its aim is to cover the issues people are talking about around Northampton , Kettering , Wellingborough , Towcester and beyond and of course tell the stories that matter to these communities .
The new Reach Plc site was launched on June 4 with a hard-hitting investigation into a care home in Kettering where 16 elderly residents have died and police have been called in .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( South ) , said : “ We 've brought together a team of journalists who are all passionate about telling the stories that matter most to our communities .
“ We ’ re in unprecedented times and it means we ’ ll all be working from home at least for now .
But we ’ ll be doing our very best to shine a light on the issues that most affect Northants and the people that make the biggest difference .
“ We want to hear from readers about what matters to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touch and let us know your thoughts.
” NorthantsLive is on Facebook and Twitter and or email news @ northantslive.news .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
BirminghamLive now has a new sister site for Northamptonshire.
NorthantsLive has been set up to bring readers the latest news, entertainment, sport, nostalgia and agenda-setting content from the county.
Its aim is to cover the issues people are talking about around Northampton, Kettering, Wellingborough, Towcester and beyond and of course tell the stories that matter to these communities.
The new Reach Plc site was launched on June 4 with a hard-hitting investigation into a care home in Kettering where 16 elderly residents have died and police have been called in.
Jacqui Merrington, Editor in Chief Digital (South), said: “We've brought together a team of journalists who are all passionate about telling the stories that matter most to our communities.
“We’re in unprecedented times and it means we’ll all be working from home at least for now. But we’ll be doing our very best to shine a light on the issues that most affect Northants and the people that make the biggest difference.
“We want to hear from readers about what matters to you, so please do get in touch and let us know your thoughts.”
NorthantsLive is on Facebook and Twitter and or email news@northantslive.news.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Joyrider faces parents' wrath after he takes their car

Police left a driver to face the wrath of his parents after he took their car without their permission for a midnight joyride .
Officers were called to a car park in Kingsbury , near Tamworth , following reports of a Ford Fiesta being driven recklessly and skidding .
The car was seized and returned to the owners - the driver ’ s own mum and dad .
The male was not taken into custody but left to face the anger of his folks back in his own home .
North Warwickshire Police posted an image of the blue car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( June 5 ) , with the statement : “ Member of the public called Police in the early hours of this morning to report the driver of this fiesta skidding round this car park in Kingsbury .
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets .
So it 's important to know what 's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system .
Large , highly populated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings .
You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article , which looks like this : It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts .
We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region .
Find it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Officers from B shift attended and arrested the driver as they weren ’ t the owner , because the owner was tucked up in bed fast asleep .
“ One early morning wake-up call later and a quick trip over the border the vehicle was returned to the rightful owner .
“ Instead of taking the driver to custody we left them there for the owner to deal with as it was their son who thought it ok to take the car for a midnight jolly without his parents permission .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Police left a driver to face the wrath of his parents after he took their car without their permission for a midnight joyride.
Officers were called to a car park in Kingsbury, near Tamworth, following reports of a Ford Fiesta being driven recklessly and skidding.
The car was seized and returned to the owners - the driver’s own mum and dad.
(Image: Warwickshire Police)
The male was not taken into custody but left to face the anger of his folks back in his own home.
North Warwickshire Police posted an image of the blue car in a car park on Friday morning (June 5), with the statement: “Member of the public called Police in the early hours of this morning to report the driver of this fiesta skidding round this car park in Kingsbury.
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets. So it's important to know what's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system. Large, highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings. You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter. Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article. It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts. We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region. Find it on Google Play Store and App Store
“Officers from B shift attended and arrested the driver as they weren’t the owner, because the owner was tucked up in bed fast asleep.
“One early morning wake-up call later and a quick trip over the border the vehicle was returned to the rightful owner.
“Instead of taking the driver to custody we left them there for the owner to deal with as it was their son who thought it ok to take the car for a midnight jolly without his parents permission.”


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Teen caught on CCTV trying to break into house jailed

A teenager who was caught on CCTV trying to break into a Walsall home has been jailed for ten months @ @ @ @ @ Lichfield Road , was handed the prison sentence at Wolverhampton Magistrates ' Court on Monday @ @ @ @ @ the attempted burglary in Lambourn Close in March .
The court was told the 18-year-old @ @ @ @ @ Police when members of the public and local officers recognised him from an online appeal @ @ @ @ @ : `` This is Bray Halls .
He 's been jailed for ten months for @ @ @ @ @ , Walsall .
`` The 18-year-old was caught on CCTV trying to break into a @ @ @ @ @ March 1 this year .
`` He was identified by local officers and members of @ @ @ @ @ was shared on social media .
Brays from Lichfield Road , Walsall was handed the @ @ @ @ @ June 1 ) at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
A teenager who was caught on CCTV trying to break into a Walsall home has been jailed for ten months.
Bray Halls, of Lichfield Road, was handed the prison sentence at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on Monday, June 1, following the attempted burglary in Lambourn Close in March.
The court was told the 18-year-old was snared by West Midlands Police when members of the public and local officers recognised him from an online appeal.
The force said online: "This is Bray Halls. He's been jailed for ten months for an attempted burglary in Bloxwich, Walsall.
"The 18-year-old was caught on CCTV trying to break into a home in Lambourn Close on March 1 this year.
"He was identified by local officers and members of the public after the footage was shared on social media. Brays from Lichfield Road, Walsall was handed the jail term on Monday (June 1) at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court."


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Madeleine McCann's parents issue new statement as suspect named and pictured

Kate and Gerry McCann have issued a fresh statement through their family spokesperson today .
The comments from the McCann family , who live in the East Midlands , in Rothley , in Leicestershire , emerged after detectives officially named a suspect .
Detectives and police from Germany and the Met Police have confirmed a German prisoner , aged 43 , named as Christian B in media reports , is the prime suspect .
In response , Kate and Gerry say they are `` encouraged '' and are `` trying to maintain as normal a life as possible '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ police '' , the spokesperson also confirmed .
`` Two hundred and seventy calls and emails is n't a bad result , given it was 13 years ago , '' he said .
`` They certainly will be encouraged to know the appeal is yielding results already and hopefully within that there will be crucial bits of information the police can act upon . ''
Kate and Gerry McCann welcomed the latest appeal , saying : `` We will never give up hope of finding Madeleine alive . ''
Their spokesman said on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintain as normal a life as possible under the circumstances , continuing their medical work where necessary and bringing the twins up as best they can , while shielding them from all the attention .
`` They wait to hear any developments from police . ''
Madeleine McCann vanished from the holiday resort of Praia da Luz , in the Algarve , in Portugal , on the night of May 3 , 2007 .
She disappeared while her parents Kate and Gerry ate tapas at a nearby restaurant .
They have never given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Kate and Gerry McCann have issued a fresh statement through their family spokesperson today.
The comments from the McCann family, who live in the East Midlands, in Rothley, in Leicestershire, emerged after detectives officially named a suspect.
Detectives and police from Germany and the Met Police have confirmed a German prisoner, aged 43, named as Christian B in media reports, is the prime suspect.
In response, Kate and Gerry say they are "encouraged" and are "trying to maintain as normal a life as possible".
The family are "awaiting updates from police", the spokesperson also confirmed.
"Two hundred and seventy calls and emails isn't a bad result, given it was 13 years ago," he said.
"They certainly will be encouraged to know the appeal is yielding results already and hopefully within that there will be crucial bits of information the police can act upon."
Kate and Gerry McCann welcomed the latest appeal, saying: "We will never give up hope of finding Madeleine alive."
Their spokesman said on Friday: "They are trying to maintain as normal a life as possible under the circumstances, continuing their medical work where necessary and bringing the twins up as best they can, while shielding them from all the attention.
"They wait to hear any developments from police."
Madeleine McCann vanished from the holiday resort of Praia da Luz, in the Algarve, in Portugal, on the night of May 3, 2007.
She disappeared while her parents Kate and Gerry ate tapas at a nearby restaurant.
They have never given up hope of finding their missing three-year-old.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Leeds chief explains why Che Adams transfer collapsed after Blues exit

One 'nice assist ' against Leicester City was enough to block Che Adams ' return to the Championship in the January transfer window .
That 's according to Leeds United 's director of football Victor Orta , who made repeated efforts to sign the former Birmingham City striker from Southampton .
Adams left Blues to join Southampton for £15m last summer after a blistering season scoring 22 goals in the Championship .
Three of those came against Leeds , the striker netting a brace in a 2-1 win at Elland Road in September 2018 before grabbing the only goal in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the following April .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Birmingham City news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Blues news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 The fee for Adams was the biggest Blues have ever received but despite impressing in pre-season for the Saints , he slipped behind Danny Ings and Shane Long in the pecking order and was chased by several Championship sides in the New Year .
Leeds reportedly had three offers rejected , including a move to take the 23-year-old on loan with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has explained how one Premier League display against Leicester kept Adams at St Mary 's .
“ When you are in a summer market the priority is quality or quantity , ” Orta told Scouted Hub .
“ In January , the priority is availability .
And then you need to detect the availability , that is not easy .
“ I had a player that ( in ) the second week of December is really available for us , near to closing ( the deal ) , and the second week of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he gave a nice assist against Leicester.
” Blues will be watching any further developments with intent this summer having inserted a 10 per cent sell-on clause in the deal that took the former Sheffield United forward to the south coast .
Adams is yet to score for Southampton and it has been reported Ralph Hasenhuttl could be willing to move him on when the season comes to an end .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
One 'nice assist' against Leicester City was enough to block Che Adams' return to the Championship in the January transfer window.
That's according to Leeds United's director of football Victor Orta, who made repeated efforts to sign the former Birmingham City striker from Southampton.
Adams left Blues to join Southampton for £15m last summer after a blistering season scoring 22 goals in the Championship.
Three of those came against Leeds, the striker netting a brace in a 2-1 win at Elland Road in September 2018 before grabbing the only goal in a 1-0 victory at St Andrew's the following April.
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
The fee for Adams was the biggest Blues have ever received but despite impressing in pre-season for the Saints, he slipped behind Danny Ings and Shane Long in the pecking order and was chased by several Championship sides in the New Year.
Leeds reportedly had three offers rejected, including a move to take the 23-year-old on loan with a £20m future fee.
But Orta has explained how one Premier League display against Leicester kept Adams at St Mary's.
“When you are in a summer market the priority is quality or quantity,” Orta told Scouted Hub. “In January, the priority is availability. And then you need to detect the availability, that is not easy.
“I had a player that (in) the second week of December is really available for us, near to closing (the deal), and the second week of January he’s not available because he gave a nice assist against Leicester.”
Blues will be watching any further developments with intent this summer having inserted a 10 per cent sell-on clause in the deal that took the former Sheffield United forward to the south coast.
Adams is yet to score for Southampton and it has been reported Ralph Hasenhuttl could be willing to move him on when the season comes to an end.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Coronavirus and the lockdown causing more deaths from other illnesses too

The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown appears to have led to an increase in deaths from other causes , experts warn .
There has been an increase in deaths caused due to dementia and Alzheimer disease , new figures show .
Deaths caused by asthma and by diabetes are also up .
And there has been an increase in deaths caused by `` symptoms signs and ill-defined conditions '' , which is a term used to describe deaths due to old age or general frailty .
Experts are unsure how many of these deaths are actually a result of Covid-19 going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that people are not receiving medical care for other conditions , or are suffering from stress .
Elderly care home residents may also suffer because of changes to their usual routine .
In the West Midlands , the death rate is higher than normal - even when deaths from Covid-19 are excluded .
In recent years , the average death rate in the West Midlands for the final week of April was 19 deaths per 100,000 people .
But this year , the figure for deaths in the region that do n't involve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The figures were published by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) , which said : `` London and the West Midlands have particularly large differences between their respective five-year average mortality rates and non-COVID-19 2020 mortality rates . ''
Nationwide , a total of 130,009 deaths were registered across England and Wales between March 7 and May 1 - which is 46,380 higher than in a normal year .
But 12,900 of these excess deaths , more than one in four , did not appear to involve the Covid-19 coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital from conditions unrelated to Covid-19 was lower than normal , which suggests people who would usually have received hospital care might not be getting it .
The number dying at home and in care homes from conditions apparently unrelated to Covid-19 was higher than normal .
But the ONS said it was n't clear what exactly was causing people to die .
The report said : `` Deaths due to causes such as asthma and diabetes increased up to the week ending 24 April 2020 and occurred increasingly outside hospital ; this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these conditions is leading to an increase in deaths , although this rise could also be related to undiagnosed COVID-19 . ''
There were 5,404 more deaths than normal ( based on looking at average deaths for the past five years ) due to dementia and Alzheimer disease between March 13 and May 1 , the ONS said .
Get all the latest politics updates in our daily BirminghamLive newsletter Politics plays a huge part in all our lives , much more than we immediately realise .
News and updates on the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic as we waited for news of the Government 's responses to the crisis and how it affected our daily lives .
You can get all the latest politics updates in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article .
There are all the Government briefings and announcements as well as new laws , decisions on the economy that affect businesses and our personal finances , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ represents us .
There 's also all the news from Birmingham City Council and other Midlands authorities on housing , education , bin collections , roads , transport , public health and so much more .
And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store This may be a result of Covid-19 going undiagnosed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` In someone with advanced dementia and Alzheimer disease , the symptoms of COVID-19 might be difficult to distinguish from their underlying illness , especially with the possibility of communication difficulties . ''
But at the same time , the pandemic and lockdown might have damaged the health of care home residents in other ways , the ONS said .
`` Care home residents have experienced changes to their usual routine as a result of measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic .
Adverse effects of such changes can not be discounted as another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of deaths in care homes . ''
And experts said that there may have been an increase in deaths caused by stress , including from myocardial infarction - the medical term for a heart attack - but it is too soon to be certain what the figures show .
The report says : `` There is a notable rise in deaths due to hypertension after Week 11 ( week ending 13 March 2020 ) and a rise in deaths due to myocardial infarction [ heart attacks ] '' .
Separate ONS figures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given time between 17 May and 30 May 2020 , an average of 0.10 % of the population had COVID-19 .
That 's one in a thousand people , or roughly 53,000 people in England .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown appears to have led to an increase in deaths from other causes, experts warn.
There has been an increase in deaths caused due to dementia and Alzheimer disease, new figures show.
Deaths caused by asthma and by diabetes are also up. And there has been an increase in deaths caused by "symptoms signs and ill-defined conditions", which is a term used to describe deaths due to old age or general frailty.
Experts are unsure how many of these deaths are actually a result of Covid-19 going undiagnosed. They say other possibilities are that people are not receiving medical care for other conditions, or are suffering from stress. Elderly care home residents may also suffer because of changes to their usual routine.
In the West Midlands, the death rate is higher than normal - even when deaths from Covid-19 are excluded.
In recent years, the average death rate in the West Midlands for the final week of April was 19 deaths per 100,000 people. But this year, the figure for deaths in the region that don't involve Covid-19 was 25.8 deaths per 100,000 people.
The figures were published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which said: "London and the West Midlands have particularly large differences between their respective five-year average mortality rates and non-COVID-19 2020 mortality rates."
Nationwide, a total of 130,009 deaths were registered across England and Wales between March 7 and May 1 - which is 46,380 higher than in a normal year.
But 12,900 of these excess deaths, more than one in four, did not appear to involve the Covid-19 coronavirus.
The number of people dying in hospital from conditions unrelated to Covid-19 was lower than normal, which suggests people who would usually have received hospital care might not be getting it. The number dying at home and in care homes from conditions apparently unrelated to Covid-19 was higher than normal.
But the ONS said it wasn't clear what exactly was causing people to die. The report said: "Deaths due to causes such as asthma and diabetes increased up to the week ending 24 April 2020 and occurred increasingly outside hospital; this could suggest a delay in care for these conditions is leading to an increase in deaths, although this rise could also be related to undiagnosed COVID-19."
There were 5,404 more deaths than normal (based on looking at average deaths for the past five years) due to dementia and Alzheimer disease between March 13 and May 1, the ONS said.
This may be a result of Covid-19 going undiagnosed, the ONS said. It said: "In someone with advanced dementia and Alzheimer disease, the symptoms of COVID-19 might be difficult to distinguish from their underlying illness, especially with the possibility of communication difficulties."
But at the same time, the pandemic and lockdown might have damaged the health of care home residents in other ways, the ONS said.
"Care home residents have experienced changes to their usual routine as a result of measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic. Adverse effects of such changes cannot be discounted as another possible explanation of the increase in the number of deaths in care homes."
And experts said that there may have been an increase in deaths caused by stress, including from myocardial infarction - the medical term for a heart attack - but it is too soon to be certain what the figures show.
The report says: "There is a notable rise in deaths due to hypertension after Week 11 (week ending 13 March 2020) and a rise in deaths due to myocardial infarction [heart attacks]".
Separate ONS figures also published today suggest that at any given time between 17 May and 30 May 2020, an average of 0.10% of the population had COVID-19. That's one in a thousand people, or roughly 53,000 people in England.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Tamworth's MP 'keen to see zoos re-opened safely'

Tamworth MP Christopher Pincher says he ’ s working alongside local attractions to discuss how and when they ‘ may be able to reopen in a safe way ’ .
The plight of Twycross Zoo has been well documented over the past few weeks with bosses at the popular attraction fearing for its future , having been plunged into financial problems by Covid-19 restrictions .
It costs more than £500,000 a month to keep the 57-year-old zoo operating and providing quality care for its endangered animals but reserves have now been all but used up .
Indeed , a Twycross @ @ @ @ @ @ @ zoo finds itself entering a period of massive uncertainty as it saddles itself with enormous debts for many years to come , and clings on for survival .
“ Over the last few weeks the zoo has been preparing to reopen safely with significant changes and measures put in place so visitors could enjoy a safe day out on its 100-acre site .
“ Twycross Zoo has watched on as beaches and parks have opened with very limited measures in place , sure that they would be able to welcome visitors safely soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ income.
” Drayton Manor Park and Zoo also remains closed at present and Mr Pincher said : “ I am keen to see both Drayton Manor and Twycross zoos re-open safely and to have a secure future moving forwards .
“ Attractions of this nature are facing a seriously unique set of circumstances and their commitment to welfare of their creatures in their care is striking .
“ Ministers are listening to the concerns and have launched a £14 million support fund for zoos and aquariums which will help cover costs such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is on top of a number of support schemes already available such as business rates relief , the business interruption loan scheme , VAT deferral and the job retention scheme .
“ I have fed the concerns that have been put to me straight to my colleagues at the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs who have assured me they are working with the main industry association , the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums ( BIAZA ) , as well as individual zoos .
“ Behind the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice straight from their Zoo Expert Committee .
“ At a local level , my team and I have been working alongside local attractions , as well as with the leading hospitality trade association ‘ UKHospitality ’ to understand and discuss how and when zoos and aquariums may be able to reopen in a safe way to the public while also maintaining social distancing.
” Twycross Zoo has insisted it is confident the public would be safe at their facility , with measures to reduce risks including : • Restricted the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CEO of Twycross Zoo , said : “ We are ready with a plethora of measures to ensure everyone ’ s safety and strongly believe that our zoo would provide a safe place for people to enjoy a much-needed day out , while providing vital support for conservation and helping secure our survival .
“ It is disappointing that large rural conservation zoos , like ours , seem to be being grouped with other venues that maybe can ’ t manage measures as easily due to the nature of their environment and who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has relaunched its donation campaign as it fights for survival and is asking anyone who can offer support , however small , to give to this cause .
Donate online at https : //twycrosszoo.org/donate/

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Tamworth MP Christopher Pincher says he’s working alongside local attractions to discuss how and when they ‘may be able to reopen in a safe way’.
The plight of Twycross Zoo has been well documented over the past few weeks with bosses at the popular attraction fearing for its future, having been plunged into financial problems by Covid-19 restrictions.
It costs more than £500,000 a month to keep the 57-year-old zoo operating and providing quality care for its endangered animals but reserves have now been all but used up.
Indeed, a Twycross statement this week read: “The zoo finds itself entering a period of massive uncertainty as it saddles itself with enormous debts for many years to come, and clings on for survival.
“Over the last few weeks the zoo has been preparing to reopen safely with significant changes and measures put in place so visitors could enjoy a safe day out on its 100-acre site.
“Twycross Zoo has watched on as beaches and parks have opened with very limited measures in place, sure that they would be able to welcome visitors safely soon and therefore gain a much-needed injection of income.”
Drayton Manor Park and Zoo also remains closed at present and Mr Pincher said: “I am keen to see both Drayton Manor and Twycross zoos re-open safely and to have a secure future moving forwards.
“Attractions of this nature are facing a seriously unique set of circumstances and their commitment to welfare of their creatures in their care is striking.
“Ministers are listening to the concerns and have launched a £14 million support fund for zoos and aquariums which will help cover costs such as feed, heating and security.
“This is on top of a number of support schemes already available such as business rates relief, the business interruption loan scheme, VAT deferral and the job retention scheme.
“I have fed the concerns that have been put to me straight to my colleagues at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs who have assured me they are working with the main industry association, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), as well as individual zoos.
“Behind the DEFRA team is a cohort of expert advice straight from their Zoo Expert Committee.
“At a local level, my team and I have been working alongside local attractions, as well as with the leading hospitality trade association ‘UKHospitality’ to understand and discuss how and when zoos and aquariums may be able to reopen in a safe way to the public while also maintaining social distancing.”
Twycross Zoo has insisted it is confident the public would be safe at their facility, with measures to reduce risks including:
Restricted the number of visitors on site
Online only bookings with timed arrival slots
Closure of many indoor areas
Implementing a one-way route around the zoo
Enforcing social distancing across the site
Placing multiple hygiene stations throughout the zoo
Dr Sharon Redrobe, CEO of Twycross Zoo, said: “We are ready with a plethora of measures to ensure everyone’s safety and strongly believe that our zoo would provide a safe place for people to enjoy a much-needed day out, while providing vital support for conservation and helping secure our survival.
“It is disappointing that large rural conservation zoos, like ours, seem to be being grouped with other venues that maybe can’t manage measures as easily due to the nature of their environment and who present different risk profiles.”
Twycross Zoo has relaunched its donation campaign as it fights for survival and is asking anyone who can offer support, however small, to give to this cause. Donate online at https://twycrosszoo.org/donate/


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Poignant moment protesters take to one knee during Black Lives Matter protest

This is the poignant moment protesters took to one knee and chanted ‘ Black lives matter ’ during Thursday 's massive demonstration in Birmingham .
New footage shows the group blocked off streets near to Five Ways in Edgbaston as they showed solidarity with George Floyd , whose death in the US sparked global outrage .
Around 4,000 protesters attended with no arrests and no disorder , according to West Midlands Police .
Crowds gathered in the city ’ s Centenary Square on Thursday afternoon , where a silence was observed in memory of Mr Floyd .
Demonstrators , many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to congregate in nearby Victoria Square but moved to the larger area to enable greater social distancing .
Several hundred people then headed to an area outside West Midlands Police ’ s Lloyd House HQ , where many of them knelt or sat in the road with their fists raised .
Signs included “ Racism is a pandemic too ” , and “ No justice , no peace.
” One protester had even brought PPE for anyone without a mask .
Tom Fulwell , 32 , from Edgbaston , said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time of a pandemic so it ’ s important .
“ I work in a retirement home and all of this was going spare .
There is plenty of it.
” Mikail Suleman , who was at t the centre of the protest , had said : “ It has been beautiful so far , peaceful protests alongside unity within Birmingham.
” Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets .
So it 's important to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system .
Large , highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings .
You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article , which looks like this : It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store Aston Villa defender Tyrone Mings was among those attending the rally .
He told his 109,000 social media followers : “ Don ’ t be afraid to speak your truth .
Stand for what ’ s right.
” Meanwhile , a memorial took place for Mr Floyd on Thursday in his home town of Minneapolis .
Hundreds attended the service , which also heard a eulogy from civil rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time to stand up and say “ get your knee off our necks ” , he said .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
This is the poignant moment protesters took to one knee and chanted ‘Black lives matter’ during Thursday's massive demonstration in Birmingham.
New footage shows the group blocked off streets near to Five Ways in Edgbaston as they showed solidarity with George Floyd, whose death in the US sparked global outrage.
Around 4,000 protesters attended with no arrests and no disorder, according to West Midlands Police.
Crowds gathered in the city’s Centenary Square on Thursday afternoon, where a silence was observed in memory of Mr Floyd.
Demonstrators, many wearing protective face masks, had been due to congregate in nearby Victoria Square but moved to the larger area to enable greater social distancing.
Several hundred people then headed to an area outside West Midlands Police’s Lloyd House HQ, where many of them knelt or sat in the road with their fists raised.
Signs included “Racism is a pandemic too”, and “No justice, no peace.”
One protester had even brought PPE for anyone without a mask.
A 32-year-old told BirminghamLive:: “It’s a protest in the time of a pandemic so it’s important.
“I work in a retirement home and all of this was going spare. There is plenty of it.”
Mikail Suleman, who was at t the centre of the protest, had said: “It has been beautiful so far, peaceful protests alongside unity within Birmingham.”
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets. So it's important to know what's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system. Large, highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings. You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter. Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article. It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts. We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region. Find it on Google Play Store and App Store
Aston Villa defender Tyrone Mings was among those attending the rally.
He told his 109,000 social media followers: “Don’t be afraid to speak your truth. Stand for what’s right.”
Meanwhile, a memorial took place for Mr Floyd on Thursday in his home town of Minneapolis.
Hundreds attended the service, which also heard a eulogy from civil rights activist Rev Al Sharpton.
It was time to stand up and say “get your knee off our necks”, he said.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--The basketball club which has made giant strides since launching last year

“ We have gone from having nothing to creating this beast , ” admits Neil Underwood .
For Neil and fellow basketball coach Wayne Brooks , it has been a fast-paced journey over the last 15 months .
Back in March 2019 , the pair held the launch of their new Tamworth Tigers basketball academy .
Oozing passion for the sport , the duo were keen to see basketball grow in the town .
They were keen to engage youngsters in a different sport and they ’ ve certainly seen the fruits of their labour pay off .
In their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the court and momentum gathered .
And while the sport may be in lockdown right now , Neil and Wayne have already put things in place to expand .
They are even , Neil says , set to start working with Tamworth schools to increase the interest on basketball .
“ Where we are now is where we expected to be in about four years ' time , ” Neil said .
“ We never expected it to take off like it has .
“ We have got kids coming to us from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There ’ s even one youngster coming over from Northfield .
“ Through word of mouth of what we do , we have gone from having nothing to having this beast .
“ The support we have had off parents has been amazing to be honest .
“ Prior to lockdown , we were turning up to games and other clubs were running out of seats because our parents and grandparents were coming to watch and they didn ’ t have space to accommodate us !
“ Our families buy the hoodies and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
“ It ’ s nice to see to be honest .
“ We are getting new kids through the door every single week .
“ When we decided to start it , we had no grassroots basketball in Tamworth .
“ People were taking their kids to Nuneaton or Birmingham but now we have changed that .
“ We were guinea pigs in a way but now , here we are , and it ’ s growing in Staffordshire .
“ As a club , we have had players selected for trials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wayne and I were named best children ’ s coaches in the West Midlands by Basketball England .
“ It ’ s been a fantastic journey so far and the more we can keep pushing it as a town , the stronger the sport will become.
” Neil admits , on the court , it was a challenge initially but Tigers have quickly adapted .
“ The first season was tough , especially for the under-15s , ” he said .
“ We were going up against teams who had been training together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were new kids on the block but they adapted .
“ When the season was cut short , though , our under-11s were undefeated .
“ They were on course to go to Worcester University to play in the final to determine the best under-11s in the Midlands and were favourites to win it before everything got pulled .
“ Next year , those under-11s will be stronger than the other teams out there .
As they become under-13s , they ’ ll become our jewels in the crown , if you like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to expand our age groups because we get messages from parents showing an interesting in bringing their young ones .
“ We are getting interest from younger age groups now and that ’ s great because , as they get older , Tamworth is going to get stronger as a club .
“ So we are trying to cover all the age groups now .
We can ’ t do anything until the relevant authorities tell us that we can get back on the court but this is the plan .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can manage all the age groups and we ’ d love for people to register their interest as we ’ re optimisitic that we ’ ll be able to get back out onto the basketball court soon.
” And when the club does get back into action , the future will look bright .
“ We have a determination to come back even stronger , ” Neil adds .
“ As a club , we are getting approached by schools now too and they want us to go in and do bits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are working on a course focusing on mental health in teenagers so we can work with the kids that way as well .
“ We ’ re both Tamworth lads and want to work in our own town .
We want it to be a community club.
” Tigers are looking to have under-9s , 11s , 13s , 15s and 17s teams when the sport resumes .
Anyone keen to get involved should register before June 30 by emailing tamworthgrassrootsba @ gmail.com or by calling 07825 082559 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
“We have gone from having nothing to creating this beast,” admits Neil Underwood.
For Neil and fellow basketball coach Wayne Brooks, it has been a fast-paced journey over the last 15 months.
Back in March 2019, the pair held the launch of their new Tamworth Tigers basketball academy.
Oozing passion for the sport, the duo were keen to see basketball grow in the town.
They were keen to engage youngsters in a different sport and they’ve certainly seen the fruits of their labour pay off.
In their first year, youngsters enjoyed success on the court and momentum gathered.
And while the sport may be in lockdown right now, Neil and Wayne have already put things in place to expand.
They are even, Neil says, set to start working with Tamworth schools to increase the interest on basketball.
“Where we are now is where we expected to be in about four years' time,” Neil said.
“We never expected it to take off like it has.
“We have got kids coming to us from Lichfield, Sutton Coldfield, Rugeley. There’s even one youngster coming over from Northfield.
“Through word of mouth of what we do, we have gone from having nothing to having this beast.
“The support we have had off parents has been amazing to be honest.
“Prior to lockdown, we were turning up to games and other clubs were running out of seats because our parents and grandparents were coming to watch and they didn’t have space to accommodate us!
“Our families buy the hoodies and the t-shirts, Tamworth Tigers is everywhere!
“It’s nice to see to be honest.
“We are getting new kids through the door every single week.
“When we decided to start it, we had no grassroots basketball in Tamworth.
“People were taking their kids to Nuneaton or Birmingham but now we have changed that.
“We were guinea pigs in a way but now, here we are, and it’s growing in Staffordshire.
“As a club, we have had players selected for trials with the West Midlands.
“And Wayne and I were named best children’s coaches in the West Midlands by Basketball England.
“It’s been a fantastic journey so far and the more we can keep pushing it as a town, the stronger the sport will become.”
Neil admits, on the court, it was a challenge initially but Tigers have quickly adapted.
“The first season was tough, especially for the under-15s,” he said. “We were going up against teams who had been training together for three or four years whereas we were new kids on the block but they adapted.
“When the season was cut short, though, our under-11s were undefeated.
“They were on course to go to Worcester University to play in the final to determine the best under-11s in the Midlands and were favourites to win it before everything got pulled.
(Image: Lisa Warren Brownhill)
“Next year, those under-11s will be stronger than the other teams out there. As they become under-13s, they’ll become our jewels in the crown, if you like.
“But we are now looking to expand our age groups because we get messages from parents showing an interesting in bringing their young ones.
“We are getting interest from younger age groups now and that’s great because, as they get older, Tamworth is going to get stronger as a club.
“So we are trying to cover all the age groups now. We can’t do anything until the relevant authorities tell us that we can get back on the court but this is the plan.
“We have taken on five new coaches so we can manage all the age groups and we’d love for people to register their interest as we’re optimisitic that we’ll be able to get back out onto the basketball court soon.”
And when the club does get back into action, the future will look bright.
“We have a determination to come back even stronger,” Neil adds.
“As a club, we are getting approached by schools now too and they want us to go in and do bits and bobs.
“Wayne and I are working on a course focusing on mental health in teenagers so we can work with the kids that way as well.
“We’re both Tamworth lads and want to work in our own town. We want it to be a community club.”
Tigers are looking to have under-9s, 11s, 13s, 15s and 17s teams when the sport resumes.
Anyone keen to get involved should register before June 30 by emailing tamworthgrassrootsba@gmail.com or by calling 07825 082559.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Dramatic moment police officers rugby tackle drug dealer after car chase

Dramatic footage shows police officers rugby tackling a drug dealer who made a run for it after a high-speed car chase .
Timothy Glover , 32 , jumped red lights and careered the wrong way around bollards before his tyres were burst by a police stinger .
Police bodycam footage shows him scrambling out of his silver Vauxhall Zafira before being hauled to the ground by cops .
One officer shouts to his colleagues : “ Camera ’ s on !
The camera ’ s on !
” while officers handcuffed him on the ground .
When he was searched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pockets .
Police also found 80 deal bags of cannabis hidden under the seat and another bag of the drugs .
More cannabis was found when police searched his home in Bestwood , Notts .
Glover admitted four charges of possession with intent to supply cannabis and further charges of dangerous driving , driving without insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a driving licence .
On Tuesday ( 2/6 ) he was jailed for five years and banned from driving for four-and-a-half years at Nottingham Crown Court .
The court heard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Estate on March 22 when they were made aware of a Vauxhall Zafira being driven by Glover .
Glover pulled over in Hartcroft Road , after officers had turned on their blue lights , but then sped off as they were getting out of their car .
Following a nine-minute pursuit Glover ’ s car came to a stop in Main Street , Bulwell , after a stinger was deployed .
PC Catherine Maunder-Green , of Nottinghamshire Police , said : `` Glover ’ s dangerous driving could easily have resulted in more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an attempt to avoid police .
`` He showed a blatant disregard for other road users and it 's only pure luck that no-one was hurt as a result of his actions .
`` Thankfully he was swiftly arrested after the car came to a stop and he is now facing the consequences for his actions . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
Dramatic footage shows police officers rugby tackling a drug dealer who made a run for it after a high-speed car chase.
Timothy Glover, 32, jumped red lights and careered the wrong way around bollards before his tyres were burst by a police stinger.
Police bodycam footage shows him scrambling out of his silver Vauxhall Zafira before being hauled to the ground by cops.
One officer shouts to his colleagues: “Camera’s on! The camera’s on!” while officers handcuffed him on the ground.
When he was searched he had cannabis and cash in his pockets. Police also found 80 deal bags of cannabis hidden under the seat and another bag of the drugs.
More cannabis was found when police searched his home in Bestwood, Notts.
Glover admitted four charges of possession with intent to supply cannabis and further charges of dangerous driving, driving without insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a driving licence.
On Tuesday (2/6) he was jailed for five years and banned from driving for four-and-a-half years at Nottingham Crown Court.
The court heard officers were on duty on the Bestwood Estate on March 22 when they were made aware of a Vauxhall Zafira being driven by Glover.
(Image: SWNS)
Glover pulled over in Hartcroft Road, after officers had turned on their blue lights, but then sped off as they were getting out of their car.
Following a nine-minute pursuit Glover’s car came to a stop in Main Street, Bulwell, after a stinger was deployed.
(Image: SWNS)
PC Catherine Maunder-Green, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "Glover’s dangerous driving could easily have resulted in more serious consequences as he drove at speed in an attempt to avoid police.
"He showed a blatant disregard for other road users and it's only pure luck that no-one was hurt as a result of his actions.
(Image: SWNS)
"Thankfully he was swiftly arrested after the car came to a stop and he is now facing the consequences for his actions."


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Aston Villa Women promoted as Championship champions

Aston Villa Women will earn their reward for a fantastic season according to reports .
In May it was announced that both the FA Women ’ s Super League and Championship would curtail due to the ongoing health crisis surrounding the coronavirus outbreak - and no decision on league placement was taken at the time .
That decision left Villa Women in a limbo .
The team had been six points clear at the top of the second tier , and were almost destined to secure promotion with six games left , until the football calendar was suspended - leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 Now , Gemma Davies ' unbeaten side will be promoted to the Women 's Super League as champions following a league decision .
With form backing them , head coach Davies wanted to play out the season - but is thankful that promotion has been acheived .
`` We wanted to finish the season on the pitch and win the league by showcasing the work that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get us to this point , '' said Davies to club media .
`` We put so many hours , so much hard graft and so much passion into this season that it ’ s fantastic to have been rewarded for that .
`` For every player , staff member and supporter , promotion to the Super League is the realisation of a dream that we ’ ve all worked so hard to achieve . ''
Villa will play against teams such as Manchester City , Chelsea and Manchester United - but not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Championship , with the Villans now having the scope to build and improve the Women 's side under the leadership of Eniola Aluko and Davies .

Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox
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 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


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Lockdown romance fraudsters take victims for £100k in just three months

Romance fraudsters have scammed lonely hearts across the Midlands out of almost £100,000 in just three months .
Nineteen victims looking for lockdown love handed over huge amounts of money to con artists hiding behind fake profiles and offering bogus offers of companionship .
West Midlands Police said the criminals persuaded their middle-aged prey to either send cash directly or reveal bank details after building up a rapport .
Excuses for needing cash quickly involve job crises , needing to travel urgently or pretending to be volunteer fundraisers .
Examples of 'romance fraud ' include false claims of being in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
The con-artists may also say they 're volunteers and need support with raising money , or a chief executive who uses their 'business ' as an excuse to send money .
The majority of those scammed between March and May were in their 50s and 60s .
Kloe Burrows , from the force 's Economic Crime Unit , said : `` These criminals seek to exploit people looking for love and companionship .
`` They establish a trust and affection with the victim before asking them for money or obtaining enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It ’ s important to protect yourselves against falling victim to a con-artist .
They not only cause heartbreak but may stop you connecting with one of the many eligible singletons . ''
West Midlands police and crime commissioner David Jamieson added : `` This really is one of the lowest forms of deception .
`` Online romance fraud scams deliberately target people who are looking for friendship and love .
Under these circumstances some people become extremely vulnerable to deception and these heartless scammers , often hundreds of miles away , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ con innocent people out of sometimes several thousand pounds .
`` With almost £100,000 already scammed from people in this way from the West Midlands since March alone , it ’ s vital we stop these fraudsters in their tracks .
By highlighting what could be a very sensitive subject for some , we can at least draw their attention to the dangers of the fraud they face when they go online to try to meet potential partners . ''
• Don ’ t rush into an online relationship - get to know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ask plenty of questions • Analyse their profile and check the person is genuine by putting their name , profile pictures or any repeatedly used phrases and the term ‘ dating scam ’ into your search engine .
• Talk to your friends and family about your dating choices .
Be wary of anyone who tells you not to tell others about them .
• Evade scammers by never sending money to , or sharing your bank details with , someone you ’ ve met online , no matter what reason they give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speaking to them .
• Stay on the dating site messenger service until you ’ re confident the person is who they say they are .
If you do decide to meet in person , make sure the first meeting is in a public place and let someone else know where you ’ re going to be .
• To report romance fraud message us via Live Chat on our website or go to the Action Fraud website at www.actionfraud.police.uk

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Romance fraudsters have scammed lonely hearts across the Midlands out of almost £100,000 in just three months.
Nineteen victims looking for lockdown love handed over huge amounts of money to con artists hiding behind fake profiles and offering bogus offers of companionship.
West Midlands Police said the criminals persuaded their middle-aged prey to either send cash directly or reveal bank details after building up a rapport.
Excuses for needing cash quickly involve job crises, needing to travel urgently or pretending to be volunteer fundraisers.
Examples of 'romance fraud' include false claims of being in the military and needing money to return home.
The con-artists may also say they're volunteers and need support with raising money, or a chief executive who uses their 'business' as an excuse to send money.
The majority of those scammed between March and May were in their 50s and 60s.
Kloe Burrows, from the force's Economic Crime Unit, said: "These criminals seek to exploit people looking for love and companionship.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"They establish a trust and affection with the victim before asking them for money or obtaining enough personal details to steal their identity.
"It’s important to protect yourselves against falling victim to a con-artist. They not only cause heartbreak but may stop you connecting with one of the many eligible singletons."
West Midlands police and crime commissioner David Jamieson added: "This really is one of the lowest forms of deception.
"Online romance fraud scams deliberately target people who are looking for friendship and love. Under these circumstances some people become extremely vulnerable to deception and these heartless scammers, often hundreds of miles away, have carefully laid traps to pounce and con innocent people out of sometimes several thousand pounds.
"With almost £100,000 already scammed from people in this way from the West Midlands since March alone, it’s vital we stop these fraudsters in their tracks. By highlighting what could be a very sensitive subject for some, we can at least draw their attention to the dangers of the fraud they face when they go online to try to meet potential partners."
Think Dates advice:
Don’t rush into an online relationship - get to know the person, not the profile and ask plenty of questions
Analyse their profile and check the person is genuine by putting their name, profile pictures or any repeatedly used phrases and the term ‘dating scam’ into your search engine.
Talk to your friends and family about your dating choices. Be wary of anyone who tells you not to tell others about them.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Man arrested over racist rant at city taxi driver is released

A man arrested on suspicion of racially abusing a Birmingham taxi driver has been released pending further enquiries .
The 53-year-old was detained after dashcam footage showing cabbie Abid Satti being subjected to a racist tirade went viral .
West Midlands Police said on Friday ( June 5 ) : “ A 53-year-old man has been interviewed and released pending investigation and our investigation continues.
” Father-of-four Mr Satti was in only his second week working as a driver for KMR Cars when the incident happened on May 15 .
He remained calm and composed as a front seat passenger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and told him : “ This is England by the way.
” The taxi driver captured some of the disgusting tirade on camera before the passenger handed him his fare and said : “ F**k off .
F****** Muslim c***.
” As the footage shows , Mr Satti , aged 39 and from Erdington , did not retaliate and politely addressed the culprit as ‘ sir ’ .
At first , the passenger , who was travelling just over two miles within Erdington , refused to sit in the back because the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Satti said : “ As soon as he sat in the car he was abusive .
“ He was talking about why I ’ m in the country , why I ’ m working here , I should be working in Pakistan , Muslims are terrorists .
“ Because I was driving , I couldn ’ t turn the camera on .
“ I was calm .
Once I had to stop the car because he was being so rude .
I was so upset , I wasn ’ t feeling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets .
So it 's important to know what 's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system .
Large , highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings .
You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the top of the article , which looks like this : It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts .
We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store “ I said to him that if he keeps saying such abuse , I would have to order another taxi because I can ’ t drive .
“ And he said he wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then resumed and Mr Satti managed to capture some of it on his dashcam .
Mr Satti did not inform the police but after the footage was released and shared extensively , officers began an investigation .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A man arrested on suspicion of racially abusing a Birmingham taxi driver has been released pending further enquiries.
The 53-year-old was detained after dashcam footage showing cabbie Abid Satti being subjected to a racist tirade went viral.
West Midlands Police said on Friday (June 5): “A 53-year-old man has been interviewed and released pending investigation and our investigation continues.”
Father-of-four Mr Satti was in only his second week working as a driver for KMR Cars when the incident happened on May 15.
He remained calm and composed as a front seat passenger spouted a volley of insults at him - and told him: “This is England by the way.”
The taxi driver captured some of the disgusting tirade on camera before the passenger handed him his fare and said: “F**k off. F****** Muslim c***.”
(Image: PA)
As the footage shows, Mr Satti, aged 39 and from Erdington, did not retaliate and politely addressed the culprit as ‘sir’.
At first, the passenger, who was travelling just over two miles within Erdington, refused to sit in the back because the taxi did not have a protective screen.
Mr Satti said: “As soon as he sat in the car he was abusive.
“He was talking about why I’m in the country, why I’m working here, I should be working in Pakistan, Muslims are terrorists.
“Because I was driving, I couldn’t turn the camera on.
“I was calm. Once I had to stop the car because he was being so rude. I was so upset, I wasn’t feeling comfortable driving.
Crime and courts news - latest updates in your inbox with our free newsletter We all want to feel safe in our homes and streets. So it's important to know what's going on and what is being done about it by police and the criminal justice system. Large, highly populated urban areas like Birmingham and the wider West Midlands always have plenty happening with crime reports and court hearings. You can get the very latest crime news as well as information on court cases in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter. Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article. It has all the latest updates from police and local magistrates courts and crown courts. We also have a free app which you can download to get the most up-to-date news from across the region. Find it on Google Play Store and App Store
“I said to him that if he keeps saying such abuse, I would have to order another taxi because I can’t drive.
“And he said he wasn’t going to say anything.”
The abuse then resumed and Mr Satti managed to capture some of it on his dashcam.
Mr Satti did not inform the police but after the footage was released and shared extensively, officers began an investigation.


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Greggs announces date 800 UK branches will re-open and it's so soon

Greggs has issued a huge update to anybody thinking they can buy a sausage roll or pasty this month .
The bakery giant , which shops across Birmingham and throughout the Midlands , is re-opening 800 branches on June 18 .
The chain , which has been trialling out reopenings in the North East for several weeks , said hundreds of branches will reopen this month .
This is including 150 franchises , according to a statement , with stores in the Midlands bound to be included as a swathe of bakeries reopen .
`` We ’ ve recently opened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basis in the North East trialling delivery , collection and standard walk-in orders , '' Greggs said .
`` This was so we could test out new operational safety measures to roll out on a wider scale when the time is right .
The trials have been performing well , providing useful feedback from colleagues and customers , and we ’ ll continue to adapt as we learn more and work to the latest Government advice .
`` We plan to start preparing and opening more shops nationwide from around the 18 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the process of selecting around 800 shops to reopen , this will initially include approximately 150 franchise shops .
All shops will open with our new tested operational measures in place .
And although they will open with a reduced range , this will be a significant step in us helping the nation get back up and running and serving the communities that we operate in .
`` We ’ ll continue to look for the best ways to serve customers whilst keeping everyone safe , and as long as we can continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our plan is to open all shops with our new operational measures in place by July 1 .
`` A huge thanks to our colleagues and customers for their cooperation and understanding throughout this process .
Keep safe , and all the best . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to our email newsletter for daily updates on what's happening in and around Birmingham
Greggs has issued a huge update to anybody thinking they can buy a sausage roll or pasty this month.
The bakery giant, which shops across Birmingham and throughout the Midlands, is re-opening 800 branches on June 18.
The chain, which has been trialling out reopenings in the North East for several weeks, said hundreds of branches will reopen this month.
This is including 150 franchises, according to a statement, with stores in the Midlands bound to be included as a swathe of bakeries reopen.
"We’ve recently opened a selection of shops on an ad-hoc basis in the North East trialling delivery, collection and standard walk-in orders," Greggs said.
"This was so we could test out new operational safety measures to roll out on a wider scale when the time is right. The trials have been performing well, providing useful feedback from colleagues and customers, and we’ll continue to adapt as we learn more and work to the latest Government advice.
"We plan to start preparing and opening more shops nationwide from around the 18 of June and we’re currently in the process of selecting around 800 shops to reopen, this will initially include approximately 150 franchise shops. All shops will open with our new tested operational measures in place. And although they will open with a reduced range, this will be a significant step in us helping the nation get back up and running and serving the communities that we operate in.
"We’ll continue to look for the best ways to serve customers whilst keeping everyone safe, and as long as we can continue to do this, the final phase in our plan is to open all shops with our new operational measures in place by July 1.
"A huge thanks to our colleagues and customers for their cooperation and understanding throughout this process. Keep safe, and all the best."


birminghammail--2020-06-05--Watch - One of Britain's longest McDonald's queues on city street

It 's the return of the Mac - and do n't these drivers know it .
Dashcam footage captured what must have been one of Britain 's longest drive-thru queues on a Birmingham street as the fast food giant reopened its Midland branches .
It was shot as a motorist passed the traffic jam in the outside lane of Bristol Road South and showed the huge demand as the Rubery restaurant reopened for takeaway service on Thursday , May 4 .
The 40-second footage emerged after branches across the region were inundated with customers as the chain 's sites reopened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Buses have been diverted , traffic jams caused and in one case , an ambulance forced to stop on Penn Road in Wolverhampton .
One bystander fumed : “ People aren ’ t moving from a McDonald ’ s queue for an ambulance !
“ I am absolutely appalled to see how selfish people are .
No one is letting these ambulances through .
“ Imagine if this was an ambulance for a loved one , or someone close to you !
What has the world come to ?
” The New Oscott @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Erdington restaurant , on Chester Road , all attracted lengthy queues on the first day of reopening .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
It's the return of the Mac - and don't these drivers know it.
Dashcam footage captured what must have been one of Britain's longest drive-thru queues on a Birmingham street as the fast food giant reopened its Midland branches.
It was shot as a motorist passed the traffic jam in the outside lane of Bristol Road South and showed the huge demand as the Rubery restaurant reopened for takeaway service on Thursday, May 4.
The 40-second footage emerged after branches across the region were inundated with customers as the chain's sites reopened following the easing of the lockdown.
Buses have been diverted, traffic jams caused and in one case, an ambulance forced to stop on Penn Road in Wolverhampton.
One bystander fumed: “People aren’t moving from a McDonald’s queue for an ambulance !
“I am absolutely appalled to see how selfish people are. No one is letting these ambulances through.
“I feel sick.
“Imagine if this was an ambulance for a loved one, or someone close to you! What has the world come to ?”
The New Oscott branch, on College Road and the Erdington restaurant, on Chester Road, all attracted lengthy queues on the first day of reopening.