birminghammail--2020-05-06--From Belgium to Mumbai - overseas trips made by city council staff

Birmingham city councillors and staff made 48 trips abroad last year - down by more than half from 2015 .
The amount of money spent on the official trips has also fallen by almost £50,000 in the last 12 months .
A report to the Council Business Management Committee meeting on May 5 shows there were 48 overseas trips made in 2019/20 .
The number has fallen each year since 2015/16 when there were 135 .
The amount of money spent by the council on visits has fluctuated in this time , from a low of £27,404 in 2017/18 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The amount spent last year was £30,629 , and in the final quarter only £899 of council money was spent , the lowest for any quarter included in the document .
Ten trips were made in the first part of 2020 , with only two of those trips funded by the council .
Three visits were made to Brussels , Belgium , and officers also visited Niš in Serbia , Tartu in Estonia , Porto in Portugal , Limerick in the Republic of Ireland and Toulouse in France .
One officer went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , between March 5 and 7 in order to promote Birmingham and the West Midlands as a destination for film and TV production .
The visit was funded by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership ( GBSLEP ) , and included 121 meetings with production companies and studios .
Birmingham has previously featured in Bollywood romantic revenge thriller Taish in 2019 and romcom Mahi NRI in 2017 .
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said the main reason for reducing overseas travel was to control costs rather than for environmental benefits .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be justified by linking it back to council priorities .
The spokesperson added : “ Overseas travel by Birmingham City Council officers and members is limited to essential trips only .
We continue to monitor this as part of our collective effort to reduce travel expenses.
” The committee meeting heard there were no upcoming overseas visits booked for the current quarter - April to June - “ for obvious reasons ” .
A separate document put to the committee shows 12 adult educational representatives from Austria , Turkey , Spain and Greece @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Sutton Coldfield on March 12 .
Cllr Robert Alden , Conservative Group leader , questioned whether delegates from Spain did in fact come on that trip , in light of the nation ’ s own schools being closed at the time in response to the coronavirus crisis .
Lloyd Broad , the city council 's Head of European and International Affairs , said he would need to double check and report back .

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Birmingham city councillors and staff made 48 trips abroad last year - down by more than half from 2015.
The amount of money spent on the official trips has also fallen by almost £50,000 in the last 12 months.
A report to the Council Business Management Committee meeting on May 5 shows there were 48 overseas trips made in 2019/20.
The number has fallen each year since 2015/16 when there were 135.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The amount of money spent by the council on visits has fluctuated in this time, from a low of £27,404 in 2017/18 to a peak of £78,799 the following year.
The amount spent last year was £30,629, and in the final quarter only £899 of council money was spent, the lowest for any quarter included in the document.
Ten trips were made in the first part of 2020, with only two of those trips funded by the council.
Three visits were made to Brussels, Belgium, and officers also visited Niš in Serbia, Tartu in Estonia, Porto in Portugal, Limerick in the Republic of Ireland and Toulouse in France.
One officer went on a trip to Mumbai, India, between March 5 and 7 in order to promote Birmingham and the West Midlands as a destination for film and TV production.
The visit was funded by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP), and included 121 meetings with production companies and studios.
(Image: Birmingham Live / Graham Young)
Birmingham has previously featured in Bollywood romantic revenge thriller Taish in 2019 and romcom Mahi NRI in 2017.
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said the main reason for reducing overseas travel was to control costs rather than for environmental benefits.
The spokesperson said overseas travel has to be justified by linking it back to council priorities.
The spokesperson added: “Overseas travel by Birmingham City Council officers and members is limited to essential trips only. We continue to monitor this as part of our collective effort to reduce travel expenses.”
The committee meeting heard there were no upcoming overseas visits booked for the current quarter - April to June - “for obvious reasons”.
A separate document put to the committee shows 12 adult educational representatives from Austria, Turkey, Spain and Greece came to School Whitehouse Common Primary School in Sutton Coldfield on March 12.
Cllr Robert Alden, Conservative Group leader, questioned whether delegates from Spain did in fact come on that trip, in light of the nation’s own schools being closed at the time in response to the coronavirus crisis.
Lloyd Broad, the city council's Head of European and International Affairs, said he would need to double check and report back.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Heathrow Airport makes big change for every passenger boarding flights

Heathrow is to begin temperature screening of passengers , several weeks after the measure was deployed by many other major airports around the world .
Chief executive John Holland-Kaye said it will trial technologies and processes which could form the basis of a common international standard for health screening at airports in a bid to encourage passengers to return to flying .
The scheme is aimed at reducing the risk of passengers contracting or transmitting Covid-19 while travelling .
The first trial will be launched in the next two weeks and will involve using cameras which are capable of monitoring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initially be used in the airport 's immigration halls , but could be deployed in areas for departures , connections and airport staff searches .
Temperature screening of passengers has been in use by airports in some countries for several weeks as part of measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic .
Mr Holland-Kaye said : `` Aviation is the cornerstone of the UK economy , and to restart the economy the Government needs to help restart aviation .
`` The UK has the world 's third-largest aviation sector , offering the platform for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreeing a common international standard for aviation health with our main trading partners .
`` This standard is key to minimising transmission of Covid-19 across borders , and the technology we are trialling at Heathrow could be part of the solution . ''

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Heathrow is to begin temperature screening of passengers, several weeks after the measure was deployed by many other major airports around the world.
Chief executive John Holland-Kaye said it will trial technologies and processes which could form the basis of a common international standard for health screening at airports in a bid to encourage passengers to return to flying.
The scheme is aimed at reducing the risk of passengers contracting or transmitting Covid-19 while travelling.
The first trial will be launched in the next two weeks and will involve using cameras which are capable of monitoring the temperatures of people.
Cameras will initially be used in the airport's immigration halls, but could be deployed in areas for departures, connections and airport staff searches.
Temperature screening of passengers has been in use by airports in some countries for several weeks as part of measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
Mr Holland-Kaye said: "Aviation is the cornerstone of the UK economy, and to restart the economy the Government needs to help restart aviation.
"The UK has the world's third-largest aviation sector, offering the platform for the Government to take a lead in agreeing a common international standard for aviation health with our main trading partners.
"This standard is key to minimising transmission of Covid-19 across borders, and the technology we are trialling at Heathrow could be part of the solution."


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Lichfield foodbank ready to help anyone struggling to buy food

Lichfield foodbank is asking the community to share the message that they are open and here to help anyone struggling to afford food in the current crisis .
The volunteer-run charity , which has been supporting people in need in the city and surrounding areas for more than six years , has already fed five times more people since the start of the coronavirus pandemic than in the same period last year .
Anyone needing support can call the national Citizens Advice Helpline on 0808 208 2138 or call the foodbank on 07913 563901 , or email clientvoucher @ lichfield.foodbank.org.uk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a session and collect a food package .
Sessions are held on Tuesdays 10am - 12 noon and Wednesdays 1 - 3pm at Life Church , Netherstowe and on Fridays 12.30 - 2.30pm at Wade Street Church .
Foodbank Chairman David Clarke said : “ The number of families seeking support has increased hugely since the start of the year and , sadly , the foodbank has provided meals for eight times more children than last year.
” “ We have received great support and donations from the community ( thank you Lichfield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure that the message reaches everyone who needs us that we are open , stocked and here to help !
” The foodbank provides a balanced package of food for three days , plus a voucher for each household member , redeemable at Riley ’ s Greengrocers where it can be exchanged for fresh fruit and veg , fresh milk and spread .
For more information on how you can donate food and other ways to support the foodbank ’ s work please visit www.lichfield.foodbank.org.uk or follow the foodbank on facebook and @ @

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Lichfield foodbank is asking the community to share the message that they are open and here to help anyone struggling to afford food in the current crisis.
The volunteer-run charity, which has been supporting people in need in the city and surrounding areas for more than six years, has already fed five times more people since the start of the coronavirus pandemic than in the same period last year.
Anyone needing support can call the national Citizens Advice Helpline on 0808 208 2138 or call the foodbank on 07913 563901, or email clientvoucher@lichfield.foodbank.org.uk for a code number to take to a session and collect a food package. Sessions are held on Tuesdays 10am - 12 noon and Wednesdays 1 - 3pm at Life Church, Netherstowe and on Fridays 12.30 - 2.30pm at Wade Street Church.
Foodbank Chairman David Clarke said: “The number of families seeking support has increased hugely since the start of the year and, sadly, the foodbank has provided meals for eight times more children than last year.”
“We have received great support and donations from the community (thank you Lichfield!), and we want to make sure that the message reaches everyone who needs us that we are open, stocked and here to help!”
The foodbank provides a balanced package of food for three days, plus a voucher for each household member, redeemable at Riley’s Greengrocers where it can be exchanged for fresh fruit and veg, fresh milk and spread.
For more information on how you can donate food and other ways to support the foodbank’s work please visit www.lichfield.foodbank.org.uk or follow the foodbank on facebook and twitter.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--'That's humans - crazy' - shock at long queues for KFC

People have reacted with dismay at the long queues which were seen at the first KFC to open in the Midlands since lockdown .
When the branch in Tamworth opened its doors to customers on Tuesday ( May 5 ) streams of motorists lined up for the drive through service .
At one point there were more than 50 cars queueing to place their order at the KFC in Ventura Park .
BirminghamLive readers said they were `` disappointed '' to see so many people waiting in line .
The Tamworth branch is one of only 11 to open so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they aimed to have 100 branches open by next week .
A spokesman for KFC said : `` We are doing this responsibly and carefully , with stringent processes and hygiene measures put in place .
`` All our restaurants will continue serving a limited menu to help the smaller kitchen teams maintain social distancing . ''
The chicken chain later added : `` We know it 's tempting , but please , do n't all rush at once !
`` Delivery remains the best way to get your fried chicken fix @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little more choice to those who are already on the road for essential journeys or on their way home from difficult shifts . ''
On Facebook , readers reacted with incredulity at the long queues outside the Tamworth restaurant .
Emma Jane Morris said : `` Great !
This will be every single fast food place when lockdown is lifted . ''
Metz Genre Jnr was also dismayed , posting : `` Everyone looking forward to going back to normal - is this what we are craving then ? ''
Sule Sadiq said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter of opinion , but who and why would people want to actually wait in such a queue which could take hours just for a KFC ?
Boggles my mind . ''
Amy Casola-Wall was equally despondent , writing : `` How sad they people have nothing better to do . ''
Susan Bird was more sanguine , saying : `` If they 're happy to queue that 's up to them .
I think it is so sad they have n't got better things to do .
But that 's humans - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some sympathy with the people in the queue .
She said : `` I ’ m sure we are all just sick of deciding what to feed the family every single day , I know I am . ''
And Susan Stait was concerned about the effect on our health .
She wrote : `` And we wonder why we have an obesity crisis in this country .
Pathetic !
!
! ''
Craig Ballard posted : `` So sad that this will be a highlight for some - the day KFC reopened @ @ @ @

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People have reacted with dismay at the long queues which were seen at the first KFC to open in the Midlands since lockdown.
When the branch in Tamworth opened its doors to customers on Tuesday (May 5) streams of motorists lined up for the drive through service.
At one point there were more than 50 cars queueing to place their order at the KFC in Ventura Park.
BirminghamLive readers said they were "disappointed" to see so many people waiting in line.
The Tamworth branch is one of only 11 to open so far. But the fried chicken giant said they aimed to have 100 branches open by next week.
A spokesman for KFC said: "We are doing this responsibly and carefully, with stringent processes and hygiene measures put in place.
"All our restaurants will continue serving a limited menu to help the smaller kitchen teams maintain social distancing."
The chicken chain later added: "We know it's tempting, but please, don't all rush at once!
"Delivery remains the best way to get your fried chicken fix - we just want to offer a little more choice to those who are already on the road for essential journeys or on their way home from difficult shifts."
On Facebook, readers reacted with incredulity at the long queues outside the Tamworth restaurant.
Emma Jane Morris said: "Great! This will be every single fast food place when lockdown is lifted."
Metz Genre Jnr was also dismayed, posting: "Everyone looking forward to going back to normal - is this what we are craving then?"
Sule Sadiq said: "Good or not is a matter of opinion, but who and why would people want to actually wait in such a queue which could take hours just for a KFC? Boggles my mind."
Amy Casola-Wall was equally despondent, writing: "How sad they people have nothing better to do."
Susan Bird was more sanguine, saying: "If they're happy to queue that's up to them. I think it is so sad they haven't got better things to do. But that's humans - crazy."
But Anna Bassett had some sympathy with the people in the queue. She said: "I’m sure we are all just sick of deciding what to feed the family every single day, I know I am."
And Susan Stait was concerned about the effect on our health. She wrote: "And we wonder why we have an obesity crisis in this country. Pathetic!!!"
Craig Ballard posted: "So sad that this will be a highlight for some - the day KFC reopened........"


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Police want to find driver after terrifying pedestrian crossing near-miss

Police are examining dashcam footage after a father was forced to step in front of a car which was trying to drive over a pedestrian crossing as four children passed .
Jason Payne tried to stop the car as it sped across the crossing on Green Lane , Castle Bromwich on Monday evening ( May 4 ) .
Fortunately no one was hurt but police are keen to identify the driver with a view to prosecution and are asking anyone with dashcam footage to contact them urgently .
West Midlands Police said : “ We ’ re examining social media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child on a pedestrian crossing on Green Lane , Castle Bromwich , on Monday at 6.30pm .
“ Our specialist Road Harm Reduction Team has spoken to the child ’ s mother today to get further details , and officers are investigating with a view to identifying and prosecuting the driver.
” Sgt Jon Butler , from the team , said : “ This was an appalling piece of driving at a location where pedestrians are clearly vulnerable .
“ Thankfully , no one was injured on this occasion , but safety of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priority and we ’ ll gather all available evidence with a view to bringing this matter before court.
” Mr Payne , 34 , was with his partner , Elizabeth Mears , her five-year-old daughter , Grace , and three-year-old son Ollie , and his two sons , eight year old Preston and Mason , ten .
Miss Mears said the adults , with the children on their scooters , started crossing when the Seat screeched to a halt behind the car in front .
Then it started to pull out , forcing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bang on the bonnet asking : ‘ What are you doing ?
’ The driver - who was wearing a mask - was said to have apologised and said something about being in a chase but then drove off .
Anyone with information or footage of this incident can e-mail road_safety_team @ west-midlands.pnn.police.uk .
Anyone who has footage showing dangerous driving in the West Midlands can get submit it to https : //secureform.nextbase.co.uk/

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Police are examining dashcam footage after a father was forced to step in front of a car which was trying to drive over a pedestrian crossing as four children passed.
Jason Payne tried to stop the car as it sped across the crossing on Green Lane, Castle Bromwich on Monday evening (May 4).
Fortunately no one was hurt but police are keen to identify the driver with a view to prosecution and are asking anyone with dashcam footage to contact them urgently.
West Midlands Police said: “We’re examining social media footage showing a car narrowly missing a child on a pedestrian crossing on Green Lane, Castle Bromwich, on Monday at 6.30pm.
“Our specialist Road Harm Reduction Team has spoken to the child’s mother today to get further details, and officers are investigating with a view to identifying and prosecuting the driver.”
Sgt Jon Butler, from the team, said: “This was an appalling piece of driving at a location where pedestrians are clearly vulnerable.
“Thankfully, no one was injured on this occasion, but safety of road users is our team’s priority and we’ll gather all available evidence with a view to bringing this matter before court.”
Mr Payne, 34, was with his partner, Elizabeth Mears, her five-year-old daughter, Grace, and three-year-old son Ollie, and his two sons, eight year old Preston and Mason, ten.
Miss Mears said the adults, with the children on their scooters, started crossing when the Seat screeched to a halt behind the car in front.
Then it started to pull out, forcing Mr Payne to jump in front and bang on the bonnet asking: ‘What are you doing?’
The driver - who was wearing a mask - was said to have apologised and said something about being in a chase but then drove off.
Anyone with information or footage of this incident can e-mail road_safety_team@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk.
Anyone who has footage showing dangerous driving in the West Midlands can get submit it to https://secureform.nextbase.co.uk/


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Joining Zoom at 80 - an unexpected extra year in politics

Talk of retirement proved to be premature for one Solihull councillor , who was handed another year in the job just days after chairing his `` last '' meeting .
Councillor Ted Richards , who has represented Castle Bromwich for 36 years , would have expected to see the curtain fall on his political career this week - having decided not to fight a 10th local election .
But it emerged a couple of months ago that the 2020 contest would not in fact be happening at all , with polling day cancelled by coronavirus .
This has meant that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you were '' in the 17 Solihull seats which today would have been expecting a frenzy of door knocks and leaflet drops .
And for Cllr Richards , the cabinet member for growth and infrastructure delivery , it means another year in the job .
The official news that the borough would n't be dusting off its ballot boxes came on Friday , March 13 - two days after he had bid his farewells at a decision session .
`` Well I suppose I was looking forward to retirement but now I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although I 'm quite happy to do that , '' he told the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) .
`` I went through all [ the goodbyes ] and now I have to remind one or two people it was premature retirement . ''
And in actual fact the former leader of the Conservative-run authority is now looking at a final final year which , even after more than three decades in the chamber , will be different from any of the others .
Since he was elected in 1984 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has spanned the North Solihull Regeneration , the Dickens Heath development , several royal visits and even a visit to royalty - he collected an OBE in 2008 .
But he concedes that the pandemic means doing the same old job in an entirely new way .
`` It is a case of having to carry on in very difficult circumstances .
`` It 's really having to adapt to the situation , as a local authority we have got to keep things moving .
`` I 'm having to get used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ techy person , being 80 , but I 'm having to get used to Zoom conferences and Web X conferences . ''
In fact while he will be seeing officers again for another year of meetings , at least to begin with he wo n't be seeing them in person and his first decision session of what should have been the `` post-election '' period is set to be held via computer screen .
And ward matters have n't gone away , with residents continuing to get in touch with a range of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis and others the more traditional concerns .
In recent weeks he has been dealing with a public footpath issue and a wrangle over a supermarket car park .
Although casework too is now being handled over the telephone and email , which he admitted was a challenge .
`` Being the sort of person I am I like personal contact , face-to-face . ''
Although as it turns out being rooted in one place is n't entirely new to the former leader , who recalls being snowed in as a schoolboy during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It was when I was living in North Shropshire ... we had food dropped by aircraft .
And we had great fun making sledges from galvanised iron .
`` Although I do n't know whether isolation for six weeks in the snow in '47 can compare with the isolation we are having today . ''
Unlike MPs - whose term can often be brought to an early finish by a party flying high in the polls or losing its majority - councillors are far more used to standard four year terms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ who wins a by-election - called when a sitting councillor resigns or dies in office - will only serve for the remainder of their predecessor 's time .
And a major change in a council 's structure may throw out the schedule ; in 2004 all 51 Solihull councillors had to stand for election after a significant shake-up in local authority boundaries .
Although the decision to postpone local elections across the country for an entire 12 months is on an entirely different scale .
The contests which would have taken place on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheduled for May 6 , 2021 .
As it happens this would have been the year that Solihull was due to take a break from polling day ; as a council which elects a third of members at a time , one year from every four is like this .
This means that there will not , unlike some other places , be an increased number of seats up for grabs in 12 months ' time .

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Talk of retirement proved to be premature for one Solihull councillor, who was handed another year in the job just days after chairing his "last" meeting.
Councillor Ted Richards, who has represented Castle Bromwich for 36 years, would have expected to see the curtain fall on his political career this week - having decided not to fight a 10th local election.
But it emerged a couple of months ago that the 2020 contest would not in fact be happening at all, with polling day cancelled by coronavirus.
This has meant that it's going to be "as you were" in the 17 Solihull seats which today would have been expecting a frenzy of door knocks and leaflet drops.
And for Cllr Richards, the cabinet member for growth and infrastructure delivery, it means another year in the job.
The official news that the borough wouldn't be dusting off its ballot boxes came on Friday, March 13 - two days after he had bid his farewells at a decision session.
"Well I suppose I was looking forward to retirement but now I've got to do another 12 months, although I'm quite happy to do that," he told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).
"I went through all [the goodbyes] and now I have to remind one or two people it was premature retirement."
(Image: Solihull Council)
And in actual fact the former leader of the Conservative-run authority is now looking at a final final year which, even after more than three decades in the chamber, will be different from any of the others.
Since he was elected in 1984, Cllr Richards' time as a councillor has spanned the North Solihull Regeneration, the Dickens Heath development, several royal visits and even a visit to royalty - he collected an OBE in 2008.
But he concedes that the pandemic means doing the same old job in an entirely new way.
"It is a case of having to carry on in very difficult circumstances.
"It's really having to adapt to the situation, as a local authority we have got to keep things moving.
"I'm having to get used to computing. I'm not really a techy person, being 80, but I'm having to get used to Zoom conferences and Webex conferences."
In fact while he will be seeing officers again for another year of meetings, at least to begin with he won't be seeing them in person and his first decision session of what should have been the "post-election" period is set to be held via computer screen.
And ward matters haven't gone away, with residents continuing to get in touch with a range of issues - some related to the current crisis and others the more traditional concerns. In recent weeks he has been dealing with a public footpath issue and a wrangle over a supermarket car park.
Although casework too is now being handled over the telephone and email, which he admitted was a challenge.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"Being the sort of person I am I like personal contact, face-to-face."
Although as it turns out being rooted in one place isn't entirely new to the former leader, who recalls being snowed in as a schoolboy during the particularly harsh winter of 1947.
"It was when I was living in North Shropshire ... we had food dropped by aircraft. And we had great fun making sledges from galvanised iron.
"Although I don't know whether isolation for six weeks in the snow in '47 can compare with the isolation we are having today."
The lost election:
Unlike MPs - whose term can often be brought to an early finish by a party flying high in the polls or losing its majority - councillors are far more used to standard four year terms.
There are exceptions of course. Someone who wins a by-election - called when a sitting councillor resigns or dies in office - will only serve for the remainder of their predecessor's time.
And a major change in a council's structure may throw out the schedule; in 2004 all 51 Solihull councillors had to stand for election after a significant shake-up in local authority boundaries.
Although the decision to postpone local elections across the country for an entire 12 months is on an entirely different scale.
The contests which would have taken place on Thursday (May 7) are now scheduled for May 6, 2021.
As it happens this would have been the year that Solihull was due to take a break from polling day; as a council which elects a third of members at a time, one year from every four is like this.
This means that there will not, unlike some other places, be an increased number of seats up for grabs in 12 months' time.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--VE Day bunting - where to get it and how to make your own

If you are suffering lockdown blues and in need of something new and positive to think about , VE Day on Friday might be just the thing .
May 8 was declared a national holiday when the end of the Second World War was announced in 1945 and it has been marked every year since then .
In 2020 , it 's the 75th anniversary of that historic occasion .
And although coronavirus has meant an end to public celebrations , you can still enjoy the day at home and create a party atmosphere .
On the original Victory in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rooftops .
Tables were brought into the streets to serve food , children played games and there was music and dancing late into the night .
Street parties wo n't be allowed but you can still put up bunting and have a picnic or household party in your garden or on your balcony .
Or even in your kitchen or living room if you do n't have any outside space .
You 'll need some bunting to give it that VE Day vibe .
Here 's some of the best options .
Amazon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Union Jack style - like this best-seller .
There 's some great options on eBay too .
You might struggle to get your bunting delivered in time for Friday though .
And there seems little chance to pick any up with your supermarket shopping - there is very little listed online among products at the big stores .
We spotted that Asda has some coloured party bunting for just £1 but you 'd be better off picking it up in store than hoping it comes in time if ordering online .
So you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own .
You 'll need string and pieces of triangular or square card , paper or fabric to attach to it .
It need n't be a Union Jack design .
A bunting template pack can be downloaded online at www.bbc.co.uk/makeadifference

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If you are suffering lockdown blues and in need of something new and positive to think about, VE Day on Friday might be just the thing.
May 8 was declared a national holiday when the end of the Second World War was announced in 1945 and it has been marked every year since then.
In 2020, it's the 75th anniversary of that historic occasion.
And although coronavirus has meant an end to public celebrations, you can still enjoy the day at home and create a party atmosphere.
On the original Victory in Europe Day, bunting was hung from rooftops. Tables were brought into the streets to serve food, children played games and there was music and dancing late into the night.
Street parties won't be allowed but you can still put up bunting and have a picnic or household party in your garden or on your balcony. Or even in your kitchen or living room if you don't have any outside space.
You'll need some bunting to give it that VE Day vibe.
(Image: Amazon)
Here's some of the best options.
Amazon has a range of bunting in traditional Union Jack style - like this best-seller.
There's some great options on eBay too.
You might struggle to get your bunting delivered in time for Friday though.
And there seems little chance to pick any up with your supermarket shopping - there is very little listed online among products at the big stores.
We spotted that Asda has some coloured party bunting for just £1 but you'd be better off picking it up in store than hoping it comes in time if ordering online.
So you might end up having to make your own. You'll need string and pieces of triangular or square card, paper or fabric to attach to it. It needn't be a Union Jack design.
A bunting template pack can be downloaded online at www.bbc.co.uk/makeadifference


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Meghan marks Archie's birthday with adorable video of her reading to him

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have marked their son 's first birthday by posting a video of Meghan reading to a beaming Archie .
With her son in her lap and proud father Harry behind the camera , Meghan holds the classic children 's tale Duck !
Rabbit !
- one of Archie 's favourite books .
Archie has rarely been seen in public and in the footage he smiles and grips the pages of the story , by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld , which playfully asks whether an ambiguous image is a duck or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Save the Children UK 's Instagram page in support of the charity 's Save with Stories campaign , which aims to raise funds for children and families struggling due to the coronavirus crisis in the UK and around the world .
A caption with the video said : `` 'Duck !
Rabbit ! '
with Meghan , The Duchess of Sussex ( and Harry , The Duke of Sussex behind the camera ) , read to their son Archie for his 1st birthday .
Happy Birthday , Archie !
`` Thank you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urgent funds for our coronavirus appeal by reading 'Duck !
Rabbit ! '
... '' The young royal sports a full head of hair and is wearing a T-shirt in the video , which is thought to have been recorded in America where Meghan and Harry are observing the Covid-19 lockdown .
The couple have made Los Angeles their home and they and other residents of California have been living under a `` stay-at-home '' order made by the state 's governor , Gavin Newsom .
America is where they plan to bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the royal family in order to become financially independent , after their hopes of earning money while still supporting the Queen were ruled out .
Archie has experienced an eventful 12 months since he was born at London 's Portland Hospital - first living in a cottage in the grounds of Windsor Castle , then an exclusive home on Vancouver Island in Canada , and now in the sprawling metropolis known as the City of Angels .
He was born on May 6 2019 at 5.26am , weighing 7lb 3oz .
A few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proudly showed him to the world , before the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh saw the infant for the first time .

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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have marked their son's first birthday by posting a video of Meghan reading to a beaming Archie.
With her son in her lap and proud father Harry behind the camera, Meghan holds the classic children's tale Duck! Rabbit! - one of Archie's favourite books.
Archie has rarely been seen in public and in the footage he smiles and grips the pages of the story, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld, which playfully asks whether an ambiguous image is a duck or a rabbit.
The video was posted on Save the Children UK's Instagram page in support of the charity's Save with Stories campaign, which aims to raise funds for children and families struggling due to the coronavirus crisis in the UK and around the world.
A caption with the video said: "'Duck! Rabbit!' with Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex (and Harry, The Duke of Sussex behind the camera), read to their son Archie for his 1st birthday. Happy Birthday, Archie!
(Image: Getty Images)
"Thank you #DuchessMeghan for helping us to raise urgent funds for our coronavirus appeal by reading 'Duck! Rabbit!'..."
The young royal sports a full head of hair and is wearing a T-shirt in the video, which is thought to have been recorded in America where Meghan and Harry are observing the Covid-19 lockdown.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The couple have made Los Angeles their home and they and other residents of California have been living under a "stay-at-home" order made by the state's governor, Gavin Newsom.
America is where they plan to bring up their son after walking away from the royal family in order to become financially independent, after their hopes of earning money while still supporting the Queen were ruled out.
Archie has experienced an eventful 12 months since he was born at London's Portland Hospital - first living in a cottage in the grounds of Windsor Castle, then an exclusive home on Vancouver Island in Canada, and now in the sprawling metropolis known as the City of Angels.
He was born on May 6 2019 at 5.26am, weighing 7lb 3oz.
A few days after his birth, his parents proudly showed him to the world, before the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh saw the infant for the first time.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Sutton Coldfield restaurant will deliver free food to hospital staff

Sutton Coldfield based Bhaijaans restaurant will deliver free meals to front-line doctors , nurses and staff at Good Hope Hospital this week .
The Birmingham Road restaurant that serves up award-winning Indian street food dishes and curries , will deliver free food to the Intensive Care and A & E departments at Sutton ’ s local hospital today ( Wednesday , May 6 ) .
Bhaijaans restaurant has reopened to the public for takeaway and deliveries and will continue to support the NHS by offering a 50 per cent discount to staff when they order a takeaway .
Mushfiqur Rahman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Everyday life has changed dramatically due to C-19 .
Events and activities have been cancelled , some people may be working from home , whilst others try to feel as normal as possible .
“ Whilst life might have changed , the role of our NHS heroes hasn ’ t , they are working tirelessly to keep our lives safe while they are risking theirs , and we want to do our part for them ” he added .
Dr Sandur Naresh from Good Hope Hospital said : “ Our staff have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at twice its normal capacity to help with C-19 cases .
The team are all incredibly humbled by this kind gesture .
It will really help to lift the morale of staff working.
” This latest announcement follows the update to Sutton Coldfield Town Centre BID ’ s Support Sutton Coldfield platform , a free resource hub , providing business support and showcasing services of local organisations , establishments and charitable schemes across the whole of the Sutton Coldfield area .
The Support Sutton Coldfield website is continually updated with useful links and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local community is kept abreast of the latest news and support available .
Mike Bushell , Sutton Coldfield Town Centre BID Manager , said : “ Bhaijaans is a true gem at the heart of Sutton Coldfield ’ s Restaurant Quarter and it ’ s fantastic to see them supporting our local hospital , as they reopen for delivery this week.
” “ Of course , many businesses and organisations right across Sutton Coldfield have been forced to alter their services over the past few weeks , but there are still many fantastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
Visit https : //www.supportsuttoncoldfield.co.uk to add information about your Sutton Coldfield business , or to access our online directory of useful links and updates .

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Sutton Coldfield based Bhaijaans restaurant will deliver free meals to front-line doctors, nurses and staff at Good Hope Hospital this week.
The Birmingham Road restaurant that serves up award-winning Indian street food dishes and curries, will deliver free food to the Intensive Care and A&E departments at Sutton’s local hospital today (Wednesday, May 6).
Bhaijaans restaurant has reopened to the public for takeaway and deliveries and will continue to support the NHS by offering a 50 per cent discount to staff when they order a takeaway.
Mushfiqur Rahman, Bhaijaans Chef and Owner said: “Everyday life has changed dramatically due to C-19. Events and activities have been cancelled, some people may be working from home, whilst others try to feel as normal as possible.
“Whilst life might have changed, the role of our NHS heroes hasn’t, they are working tirelessly to keep our lives safe while they are risking theirs, and we want to do our part for them” he added.
Dr Sandur Naresh from Good Hope Hospital said: “Our staff have been working tirelessly with the hospital functioning at twice its normal capacity to help with C-19 cases. The team are all incredibly humbled by this kind gesture. It will really help to lift the morale of staff working.”
This latest announcement follows the update to Sutton Coldfield Town Centre BID’s Support Sutton Coldfield platform, a free resource hub, providing business support and showcasing services of local organisations, establishments and charitable schemes across the whole of the Sutton Coldfield area.
The Support Sutton Coldfield website is continually updated with useful links and important business updates, to ensure the local community is kept abreast of the latest news and support available.
Mike Bushell, Sutton Coldfield Town Centre BID Manager, said: “Bhaijaans is a true gem at the heart of Sutton Coldfield’s Restaurant Quarter and it’s fantastic to see them supporting our local hospital, as they reopen for delivery this week.”
“Of course, many businesses and organisations right across Sutton Coldfield have been forced to alter their services over the past few weeks, but there are still many fantastic services to help us while staying at home.
Visit https://www.supportsuttoncoldfield.co.uk to add information about your Sutton Coldfield business, or to access our online directory of useful links and updates.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--How to make bunting at home for VE Day as UK supermarkets face shortage

Parties in the streets and crowds cheering in Trafalgar Square marked Victory in Europe Day in 1945 , with the British public rejoicing after six long , hard years of war .
This year , the coronavirus lockdown has meant that hundreds of celebrations planned for the 75th anniversary of the momentous day have had to be cancelled .
But in the same way that millions of Britons have used technology to satisfy their pub quiz itches , see family members , and even get married , VE Day 2020 on May 8 is taking place at home and online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impacting UK supermarkets , with stores sold out online as the nation gathers to mark VE Day on Friday , May 8 .
So , how do you make your own at home ?
The BBC 's Make a Difference campaign has asked people to show off the bunting they create for VE Day and provided a template and instructions for people to get started .
Budding crafters can find the template on the BBC 's website , and they have supplied the following guide on how to use it : • Decorate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strip blank • Use any method , including paint , pencils , pens , glitter and stickers • Draw anything inspirational , such as a World War Two soldier , a family member or a personal hero • Fold along the solid black line of the template to create a flap • Hang the flap over a string or ribbon and glue it in place • Leave enough space between each triangle and some length of ribbon or string at either end to hang up the completed bunting • Hang the bunting in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have the means to print off the BBC template , the broadcasters have provided the following instructions on making their own : • Take an A4 piece of paper long ways up ( portrait ) • Fold over about 2cm at the top • Draw a line diagonally from the outside of the paper at the top to the fold in the middle at the bottom • Cut along that line through both sides of the paper

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Parties in the streets and crowds cheering in Trafalgar Square marked Victory in Europe Day in 1945, with the British public rejoicing after six long, hard years of war.
This year, the coronavirus lockdown has meant that hundreds of celebrations planned for the 75th anniversary of the momentous day have had to be cancelled.
But in the same way that millions of Britons have used technology to satisfy their pub quiz itches, see family members, and even get married, VE Day 2020 on May 8 is taking place at home and online.
Unfortunately, a bunting shortage is impacting UK supermarkets, with stores sold out online as the nation gathers to mark VE Day on Friday, May 8.
So, how do you make your own at home?
The BBC's Make a Difference campaign has asked people to show off the bunting they create for VE Day and provided a template and instructions for people to get started.
Budding crafters can find the template on the BBC's website, and they have supplied the following guide on how to use it:
Decorate the bunting
Decorate the main triangle but leave the top strip blank
Use any method, including paint, pencils, pens, glitter and stickers
Draw anything inspirational, such as a World War Two soldier, a family member or a personal hero
Construct the bunting
Fold along the solid black line of the template to create a flap
Hang the flap over a string or ribbon and glue it in place
Leave enough space between each triangle and some length of ribbon or string at either end to hang up the completed bunting
Hang the bunting in the window
For people who don't have the means to print off the BBC template, the broadcasters have provided the following instructions on making their own:


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Dad makes use of car sat on drive in lockdown by turning it to greenhouse

A dad decided to make use of his car while it was sitting on the driveway during lockdown - by turning it into a GREENHOUSE .
Ian Hall , 62 , is growing three types of tomato plant in the back of his ET20 Mercedes - which he intends to turn into a sauce for pizza .
The retiree , who is also nurturing some pak choi , has pulled the seats down in his motor to make space .
The car provides the perfect environment for growth as it stays warm inside even when it is cold on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ idea after the temperature plummeted late last month and slugs began to get at the plants in their previous spot .
Realising that his Mercedes was permanently sat in front of his house in Bristol , he moved the fruit and veg to the boot .
Daughter Astrid said : `` He 's had six weeks to the gallon on his car so far , in terms of driving it .
`` The car is lined with plastic to prevent water damage .
It creates the perfect environment as it 's warm in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside . ''
Ian hopes to use the tomatoes to create a sauce for a homemade pizza .
He is also currently making the dough .

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A dad decided to make use of his car while it was sitting on the driveway during lockdown - by turning it into a GREENHOUSE.
Ian Hall, 62, is growing three types of tomato plant in the back of his ET20 Mercedes - which he intends to turn into a sauce for pizza.
The retiree, who is also nurturing some pak choi, has pulled the seats down in his motor to make space.
The car provides the perfect environment for growth as it stays warm inside even when it is cold on the outside.
Ian came up with the idea after the temperature plummeted late last month and slugs began to get at the plants in their previous spot.
(Image: SWNS.COM)
Realising that his Mercedes was permanently sat in front of his house in Bristol, he moved the fruit and veg to the boot.
Daughter Astrid said: "He's had six weeks to the gallon on his car so far, in terms of driving it.
"The car is lined with plastic to prevent water damage. It creates the perfect environment as it's warm in the sun even when it's cold outside."
(Image: SWNS.COM)
Ian hopes to use the tomatoes to create a sauce for a homemade pizza.
He is also currently making the dough.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--'Left, right and centre' - Lowdown on Blues hotshot Jayden Reid

Birmingham City have played the entire 2019/2020 campaign with only two recognised centre forwards .
Lukas Jutkiewicz has remained a consistent presence throughout , while the January transfer window saw Alvaro Gimenez depart and Scott Hogan arrive .
Kerim Mrabti has filled in here and there but this summer the door remains open for one of the many contenders from the Under 23s to step through .
There has been plenty of talk about Miguel Fernandez , the Spanish youngster signed from UE Cornella in the summer .
Adan George has done well for the Under 18s and 23s , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exposure with the development squad .
But quietly it looks as though ex-Manchester United trainee Jayden Reid has joined Odin Bailey at the head of that particular queue .
That ’ s certainly seems to be the case at present after Blues announced they have triggered the one year option in his contract .
Reid has warmed up with the first team on a match day - and in February was given a squad number – 49 .
And it ’ s him rather than Fernandez or Bailey who is actually the 23s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolves earlier this season took his season total to eight .
Here ’ s what you need to know about him .
Reid is 18-years-old , brother of Swindon Town right back Tyler and signed after leaving Swansea last summer .
He spent a couple of years with the Under 18s at the Liberty Stadium , having joined them from United in 2017 .
How did the move come about ?
Knowing he would be leaving Swansea Reid arrived at Wast Hills at the end of last season , playing for the Under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the campaign .
He scored twice in a 4-2 win against Bolton and signed permanently in July .
Within four days of arriving he scored in a pre-season game against Solihull Moors .
He seemed set for a flying start but an ankle injury slowed him down and it took him until November to hit his stride .
He ’ s bagged eight goals in nine starts and seven appearances off the bench .
He got off the mark with two in a 6-0 win over Bolton in November and has been on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barnsley , there was a sumptuous chip against Leeds and – earlier this month –a brace in a 2-2 draw with Wolves .
What has he said ?
Speaking in November he said : “ Hopefully I can make an impact for the rest of the season for the squad .
If you do well in the 23s you are always looking to push on into the first team which is my aim for the season.
” And in February he added : “ The boys are hungry so you have got to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prove why you should be in the squad.
” What have the coaches said ?
Steve Spooner speaking after Reid scored twice in a 2-2 draw with Wolves in February .
“ He is in a good rich vein of form at the moment and banging goals in left , right and centre .
“ But there is still so much of his game that needs to be better , he can ’ t just rest on scoring goals .
“ If he is really serious about what he wants to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parts of his game as well .
“ He can still work harder , where he was 3-4 weeks ago he has come on leaps and bounds – credit to him but if he wants to be a player he has work to do as well.
” He signed a one-year professional deal last summer , the extension has been triggered and he 'll get another season trying to prove himself to Pep Clotet .

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Birmingham City have played the entire 2019/2020 campaign with only two recognised centre forwards.
Lukas Jutkiewicz has remained a consistent presence throughout, while the January transfer window saw Alvaro Gimenez depart and Scott Hogan arrive.
Kerim Mrabti has filled in here and there but this summer the door remains open for one of the many contenders from the Under 23s to step through.
There has been plenty of talk about Miguel Fernandez, the Spanish youngster signed from UE Cornella in the summer.
Adan George has done well for the Under 18s and 23s, while Josh Andrews is getting plenty of exposure with the development squad.
But quietly it looks as though ex-Manchester United trainee Jayden Reid has joined Odin Bailey at the head of that particular queue.
That’s certainly seems to be the case at present after Blues announced they have triggered the one year option in his contract.
Reid has warmed up with the first team on a match day - and in February was given a squad number – 49.
And it’s him rather than Fernandez or Bailey who is actually the 23s’ leading scorer.
A brace against Wolves earlier this season took his season total to eight.
Here’s what you need to know about him.
(Image: BCFC/Roy Smiljanic)
What’s his background?
Reid is 18-years-old, brother of Swindon Town right back Tyler and signed after leaving Swansea last summer.
He spent a couple of years with the Under 18s at the Liberty Stadium, having joined them from United in 2017.
How did the move come about?
Knowing he would be leaving Swansea Reid arrived at Wast Hills at the end of last season, playing for the Under 18s in their final league match of the campaign.
He scored twice in a 4-2 win against Bolton and signed permanently in July. Within four days of arriving he scored in a pre-season game against Solihull Moors.
He seemed set for a flying start but an ankle injury slowed him down and it took him until November to hit his stride.
Since then
He’s bagged eight goals in nine starts and seven appearances off the bench.
He got off the mark with two in a 6-0 win over Bolton in November and has been on fire lately, two more came against Barnsley, there was a sumptuous chip against Leeds and – earlier this month –a brace in a 2-2 draw with Wolves.
(Image: BCFC/Roy Smiljanic)
What has he said?
Speaking in November he said: “Hopefully I can make an impact for the rest of the season for the squad. If you do well in the 23s you are always looking to push on into the first team which is my aim for the season.”
And in February he added: “The boys are hungry so you have got to be hungry as well and you have to prove why you should be in the squad.”
What have the coaches said?
Steve Spooner speaking after Reid scored twice in a 2-2 draw with Wolves in February.
“He is in a good rich vein of form at the moment and banging goals in left, right and centre.
“But there is still so much of his game that needs to be better, he can’t just rest on scoring goals.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
“If he is really serious about what he wants to do he has to learn to refine other parts of his game as well.
“He can still work harder, where he was 3-4 weeks ago he has come on leaps and bounds – credit to him but if he wants to be a player he has work to do as well.”
What’s his contractual situation?
He signed a one-year professional deal last summer, the extension has been triggered and he'll get another season trying to prove himself to Pep Clotet.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--April saw a 25 percent increase in fly-tipping across Lichfield

Lichfield District Council is supporting residents and businesses to take pride in their local area and dispose of their waste properly and legally , following a sharp increase in fly-tipping incidents since the coronavirus lockdown began .
In recent weeks , the council ’ s street cleansing team has been busy removing more fly-tipping from across the district , including household , garden and commercial waste .
When compared with the same period last year , April has seen up to a 25 percent increase in fly-tipping incidences on roads and public spaces .
Fly-tipping on private land also went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent increase in reports from the same time last year .
Councillor Angela Lax , Cabinet Member for Legal & Regulatory Services , said : “ We know the vast majority of our residents are responsible with their waste , and will be just as disappointed as we are to hear of the increase in fly-tipping that we ’ re experiencing at the moment .
“ It ’ s really important to keep the district tidy , and our teams have been working hard to retain a full waste and recycling collection service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the positive response and support from residents and we know most people are doing their very best at this challenging time .
“ I take encouragement that the government has asked councils across the country to prepare to reopen household recycling centres , and I know that Staffordshire County Council is working on its plan for re-opening their centres with social distancing measures in place .
Although I am aware that other areas have seen large queues at these facilities , I am sure reopening the centres will help to relieve much of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope to see them back up and running soon .
“ In the meantime , we know many households have been having spring cleans and I ’ d like to thank you for holding onto any extra rubbish that can ’ t go in your bins until the recycling centres reopen .
This is obviously outside of our control and thank you for your patience .
`` There is also the option to pay for a waste company to take any rubbish away , checking first that they are correctly licensed as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always asking for a receipt.
” To help stamp out fly-tipping , if you see anything suspicious or spot it across the district , please report it to the council online at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/report or by calling 01543 308999 .
The council is continuing to operate its bulky waste collection service for large items of furniture .
To find out more , go to www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/bulkywaste .

Lichfield District Council is supporting residents and businesses to take pride in their local area and dispose of their waste properly and legally, following a sharp increase in fly-tipping incidents since the coronavirus lockdown began.
In recent weeks, the council’s street cleansing team has been busy removing more fly-tipping from across the district, including household, garden and commercial waste.
When compared with the same period last year, April has seen up to a 25 percent increase in fly-tipping incidences on roads and public spaces. Fly-tipping on private land also went up in April, with a 30 percent increase in reports from the same time last year.
Councillor Angela Lax, Cabinet Member for Legal & Regulatory Services, said: “We know the vast majority of our residents are responsible with their waste, and will be just as disappointed as we are to hear of the increase in fly-tipping that we’re experiencing at the moment.
“It’s really important to keep the district tidy, and our teams have been working hard to retain a full waste and recycling collection service. Our crews have been overwhelmed by the positive response and support from residents and we know most people are doing their very best at this challenging time.
“I take encouragement that the government has asked councils across the country to prepare to reopen household recycling centres, and I know that Staffordshire County Council is working on its plan for re-opening their centres with social distancing measures in place. Although I am aware that other areas have seen large queues at these facilities, I am sure reopening the centres will help to relieve much of the pressure on our service and we hope to see them back up and running soon.
“In the meantime, we know many households have been having spring cleans and I’d like to thank you for holding onto any extra rubbish that can’t go in your bins until the recycling centres reopen. This is obviously outside of our control and thank you for your patience.
"There is also the option to pay for a waste company to take any rubbish away, checking first that they are correctly licensed as a waste carrier with the Environment Agency and always asking for a receipt.”
To help stamp out fly-tipping, if you see anything suspicious or spot it across the district, please report it to the council online at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/report or by calling 01543 308999.
The council is continuing to operate its bulky waste collection service for large items of furniture. To find out more, go to www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/bulkywaste.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Top cop blasted for spying on walkers and pouring dye in blue lagoon quits

A controversial police chief whose officers were blasted by a former judge for filming walkers with drones and pouring black dye in a blue lagoon has quit .
Derbyshire Police Chief Constable Peter Goodman has come under fire amid accusations of the force abusing emergency powers during the coronavirus outbreak .
Shocking footage showed police drones hovering over walkers in the Peak District while shaming them on social media .
The force was also criticised for dyeing a normally bright blue lagoon in Buxton black in a bid to deter people from gathering there .
The former Supreme Court Justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ force ’ s approach to the restrictions on public movement to “ a police state ” .
He also said filming walkers with drones was “ disgraceful ” and “ shamed our policing traditions ” .
Chf Con Goodman defended his officer ’ s tactics and blamed the government , saying the emergency laws were “ unclear ” .
He also defended using drones to shame walkers , saying the methods were “ slightly unusual ” but claimed other forces were implementing “ more draconian measures ” .
Just weeks after the scandal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is retiring in July after 13 years in the top job .
In a statement , he said : “ It has been my privilege and pleasure to lead Derbyshire Constabulary and I am very proud to have been part of such a hardworking and dedicated organisation .
“ I have seen many changes during my career , in particular the change in crime trends .
“ Technology now plays a large part in crime and I have been lucky enough to be involved in the work that is happening nationally to tackle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crime and serious and organised crime .
“ I am extremely proud of the work that officers and staff do day-in-day-out , most of it going unsung .
“ The dedication to keeping the communities of Derbyshire safe is second to none by all members of the force and I know that this will continue.
” Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa said : “ Peter has made a significant contribution to policing and the public over the course of his 32-year career and during the last three years we have enjoyed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Derbyshire .
“ It has been my privilege to work with such a professional and inspirational chief constable in order to protect the vulnerable in our communities , prevent crime and preserve Derbyshire ’ s reputation as a safe place to live , work or visit .
“ I wish him good luck , health and every happiness for the future .
”

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A police chief whose officers were blasted by a former judge for filming walkers with drones has announced he is to retire.
Derbyshire Police Chief Constable Peter Goodman saw the force come under fire amid accusations it had abused emergency powers during the coronavirus outbreak.
The top cop has now announced his retirement, with the force stressing there is no link to the lockdown controversies.
Shocking footage previously showed police drones hovering over walkers in the Peak District while shaming them on social media. The force was also criticised for dyeing a normally bright blue lagoon in Buxton black in a bid to deter people from gathering there.
The former Supreme Court Justice Jonathan Sumption, QC, likened the force’s approach to the restrictions on public movement to “a police state”.
(Image: Derbyshire Police / SWNS)
He also said filming walkers with drones was “disgraceful” and “shamed our policing traditions”.
Mr Goodman previously defended his officers' tactics and blamed the government, saying the emergency laws were “unclear”.
He also defended using drones to shame walkers, saying the methods were “slightly unusual” but claimed other forces were implementing “more draconian measures”.
Mr Goodman has now announced he is retiring in July after 13 years in the top job, but the force says the decision is not related to the controversies.
In a statement, he said: “It has been my privilege and pleasure to lead Derbyshire Constabulary and I am very proud to have been part of such a hardworking and dedicated organisation.
“I have seen many changes during my career, in particular the change in crime trends.
“Technology now plays a large part in crime and I have been lucky enough to be involved in the work that is happening nationally to tackle this as the national lead for cyber crime and serious and organised crime.
“I am extremely proud of the work that officers and staff do day-in-day-out, most of it going unsung.
“The dedication to keeping the communities of Derbyshire safe is second to none by all members of the force and I know that this will continue.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa said: “Peter has made a significant contribution to policing and the public over the course of his 32-year career and during the last three years we have enjoyed a good working relationship serving the people of Derbyshire.
“It has been my privilege to work with such a professional and inspirational chief constable in order to protect the vulnerable in our communities, prevent crime and preserve Derbyshire’s reputation as a safe place to live, work or visit.
“I wish him good luck, health and every happiness for the future.”


birminghammail--2020-05-06--M&S just released one of its most divisive products ever for £4

Marks and Spencer has launched a controversial new product for £4 - and it has left shoppers divided .
M & S has released its new Hoisin Duck Burgers just in time for the bank holiday , and the packs cost £4 for 2 .
The high street retailer 's duck burgers are a first of its kind for a supermarket in the UK .
The products are made with a blend of British duck , Chinese style shredded duck , ginger and spring onions .
M & S says : `` This succulent burger is perfect sandwiched between our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fluffy , Asian-style , burger-sized Bao buns , another high-street first !
`` To serve – try layering radish , cucumber ribbons , shredded spring onions and either a hoisin or siracha sauce for a flavour explosion you will be thanking us for later . ''
Kirsty Rowley , Product Developer for M & S BBQ range said : `` Our customers love to experiment with different flavours from around the world .
This year we have added these delicious Hoisin Duck Burgers to our Grill collection .
These first on the high-street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chinese takeaway dish - crispy shredded duck .
Super flavourful with hints of 5 spice and hoisin , they are perfect for the BBQ where the succulent meat caramelises around the edge for ultimate crispiness – but equally delicious under the grill or fried .
We think these are going to be a huge hit with our customers . ''
But not everybody is convinced .
Indeed , one Facebook user wrote : `` I love duck pancakes but not sure about a burger ! ''
M & S is currently offering 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grill collection .

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Marks and Spencer has launched a controversial new product for £4 - and it has left shoppers divided.
M&S has released its new Hoisin Duck Burgers just in time for the bank holiday, and the packs cost £4 for 2.
The high street retailer's duck burgers are a first of its kind for a supermarket in the UK.
The products are made with a blend of British duck, Chinese style shredded duck, ginger and spring onions.
M&S says: "This succulent burger is perfect sandwiched between our NEW Bao Burger Buns, light, fluffy, Asian-style, burger-sized Bao buns, another high-street first!
"To serve – try layering radish, cucumber ribbons, shredded spring onions and either a hoisin or siracha sauce for a flavour explosion you will be thanking us for later."
Kirsty Rowley, Product Developer for M&S BBQ range said: "Our customers love to experiment with different flavours from around the world. This year we have added these delicious Hoisin Duck Burgers to our Grill collection. These first on the high-street meaty patties are inspired by the favourite Chinese takeaway dish - crispy shredded duck. Super flavourful with hints of 5 spice and hoisin, they are perfect for the BBQ where the succulent meat caramelises around the edge for ultimate crispiness – but equally delicious under the grill or fried. We think these are going to be a huge hit with our customers."
But not everybody is convinced.
Indeed, one Facebook user wrote: "I love duck pancakes but not sure about a burger!"
"I'll stick to beef," another wrote.
M&S is currently offering 3 for £10 across selected products in its Grill collection.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--The week Tamworth FC went to Wembley and united the whole town

Graham Smith , Bobby Atkins , Dale Belford , Andy Foote , Danny McCormack , Mark Stanton , Russell Gordon , the three Martins – Myers , Finn and Devaney – Ian Moores , Steve Cartwright , Corrigan Lockett , Micky George , Dave Ward , Carl Rathbone and Paul Heaton – names which roll off the tongues of people of a certain age .
They are hark back to that glorious time in 1989 when the Lambs united a whole town .
Today , May 6 marks another anniversary of when the team walked out on to the pitch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the FA Vase final .
It was a game which ended 1-1 , Martin Devaney scoring for the Lambs .
Incredibly 13,000 people from the town travelled 100 miles to roar the Lambs on at Wembley .
Four days later , in a replay , 11,200 people watched Tamworth lift the famous trophy after a thumping 3-0 win at Peterborough .
Players from the era understandably remember the time with affection . ''
“ You couldn ’ t wish to meet better people than those from Tamworth and the way they followed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For him , the FA Vase was more than about one team or one club – it was a town united .
“ Everybody got involved that year , from regulars , grandparents who had been life-long supporters to people who had never watched a game before , ” he remembered .
“ When a football club does well , I always think a town thrives and when we were at Tamworth , because of the success , everyone got behind us .
“ It didn ’ t matter where you went , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like ‘ you alright Cozza ?
’ !
“ Everybody wanted to get involved and that was brought home to us when we went to the final and we saw that sea of red going up Wembley Way and then , when walking on to the pitch , seeing the crowds .
“ The whole experience was just awe-inspiring . ''
`` It ’ s something that nobody can ever take away from you.
” Team-mate Devaney ’ s name will be forever revered by FC fans after scoring THAT Wembley goal , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was playing in midfield and I remember one of the squad , the experienced Barry Lowe , giving me some advice , ” Martin remembers .
“ He ’ d said , with the size of the pitch , it would be hard to play box-to-box .
He said ‘ choose your moments to get in the box and have an impact ’ .
“ I got the chance early in the second half .
I remember I was always strong on my left foot , rather than my right .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to be honest , it was not the cleanest strike ever .
I think , though , if I had hit it flush , the keeper would have saved it . ''
“ As it was , I didn ’ t hit it 100 per cent clean and it went into the corner .
“ It was , of course , a fantastic feeling to score at Wembley .
“ I have pictures around the house of that goal which I see every day , so it ’ s something etched in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something that , 30 years on , people still talk to me about.
” Having lived in Amington all of his life and having played junior football for Gillway Boys , the chance to play for his home town club at Wembley was understandably a dream come true for Bobby Atkins .
“ I just wish we could do it all over again , ” Bobby reflected when talking to the Tamworth Herald last year .
“ I ’ ll be honest , I still wish I was playing now , even though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , you don ’ t realise how short a playing career is . ''
“ I remember Ron Sims saying to me at the time ‘ play on for as long as you can because you are a long time retired ’ .
“ He was definitely right and , as I say , I ’ d still love to be out there !
“ But it ’ s nice to have those memories .
To represent my home town , to captain Tamworth , at Wembley , well it was an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything we achieved that year , I think , without doubt , walking out on to the pitch at Wembley was the biggest highlight .
“ It made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up .
“ I can still recall the rumble , the noise from fans as we prepared to go through the tunnel .
It was unbelievable .
“ For me , it was made even more special by the fact my family were there .
My mom and dad were very supportive of me through my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t miss a game I played in up until my retirement and so when I came out on to the pitch , to look up and see my dad there , crying , it was really emotional.
” As captain , Bobby also had the honour of lifting the trophy once Tamworth ‘ finished the job ’ in the replay at Peterborough .
That feeling of holding the FA Vase aloft is something he finds hard to describe .
“ To lift that massive cup , well it was incredible , ” he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to describe all the emotions you have . ''
“ It made me realise how an athlete at the Olympic Games must feel when collecting a gold medal , it was just amazing .
I feel really honoured to have had the fantastic opportunity to captain the side.
” Fan favourite Martin Myers , meanwhile , admits he will always look back on the Vase experience with affection .
“ I remember walking out on the pitch at Wembley for the first time and just thinking : ‘ This is like a carpet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It was certainly different to what we were used to !
“ For me , that day was the highlight of my career .
We actually struggled on the day , I seem to remember .
Sudbury were a good team and should have won .
“ The replay at Peterborough was a different game entirely .
We just murdered them .
It was a fantastic feeling to win the cup .
“ I loved my whole time at Tamworth .
I was always a loyal type of player if I enjoyed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club , I would rather stay there and that ’ s why I spent six or seven seasons at The Lamb .
It was a special time , with special players and special fans.
” The last word should go to manager Graham Smith , though , the man who masterminded the FA Vase success .
At his home in Cyprus , a picture of the 1989 squad still graces a wall , hanging proudly above a small bar – certainly something for him to raise a glass to .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily visit to a wonderful time , a period when his players made Lambs history .
“ I still have my picture of all the players , ” he says .
“ It ’ s pride of place in my house .
I look at it every day and I salute the players every time I walk past it .
They were all great lads , they really were .
“ When I look back , it was physically and mentally draining for those few days .
“ But the day after we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I realised what we had achieved .
It was a fantastic time . ''

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Graham Smith, Bobby Atkins, Dale Belford, Andy Foote, Danny McCormack, Mark Stanton, Russell Gordon, the three Martins – Myers, Finn and Devaney – Ian Moores, Steve Cartwright, Corrigan Lockett, Micky George, Dave Ward, Carl Rathbone and Paul Heaton – names which roll off the tongues of people of a certain age.
They are hark back to that glorious time in 1989 when the Lambs united a whole town.
Today, May 6 marks another anniversary of when the team walked out on to the pitch at Wembley to take on Sudbury in the FA Vase final.
It was a game which ended 1-1, Martin Devaney scoring for the Lambs. Incredibly 13,000 people from the town travelled 100 miles to roar the Lambs on at Wembley.
Four days later, in a replay, 11,200 people watched Tamworth lift the famous trophy after a thumping 3-0 win at Peterborough.
Players from the era understandably remember the time with affection."
(Image: Paul Barber / Tamworth Herald)
“You couldn’t wish to meet better people than those from Tamworth and the way they followed that club,” said Corrigan Lockett.
For him, the FA Vase was more than about one team or one club – it was a town united.
“Everybody got involved that year, from regulars, grandparents who had been life-long supporters to people who had never watched a game before,” he remembered.
“When a football club does well, I always think a town thrives and when we were at Tamworth, because of the success, everyone got behind us.
“It didn’t matter where you went, they all knew you and it was like ‘you alright Cozza?’!
“Everybody wanted to get involved and that was brought home to us when we went to the final and we saw that sea of red going up Wembley Way and then, when walking on to the pitch, seeing the crowds.
“The whole experience was just awe-inspiring."
"It’s something that nobody can ever take away from you.”
Team-mate Devaney’s name will be forever revered by FC fans after scoring THAT Wembley goal, which came just after half-time.
“I was playing in midfield and I remember one of the squad, the experienced Barry Lowe, giving me some advice,” Martin remembers.
“He’d said, with the size of the pitch, it would be hard to play box-to-box. He said ‘choose your moments to get in the box and have an impact’.
“I got the chance early in the second half. I remember I was always strong on my left foot, rather than my right.
“The opportunity fell on my right and, to be honest, it was not the cleanest strike ever. I think, though, if I had hit it flush, the keeper would have saved it."
(Image: Paul Barber / Tamworth Herald)
“As it was, I didn’t hit it 100 per cent clean and it went into the corner.
“It was, of course, a fantastic feeling to score at Wembley.
“I have pictures around the house of that goal which I see every day, so it’s something etched in my mind.
“It’s something that, 30 years on, people still talk to me about.”
Having lived in Amington all of his life and having played junior football for Gillway Boys, the chance to play for his home town club at Wembley was understandably a dream come true for Bobby Atkins.
“I just wish we could do it all over again,” Bobby reflected when talking to the Tamworth Herald last year.
“I’ll be honest, I still wish I was playing now, even though I am 57!
“At the time, you don’t realise how short a playing career is."
(Image: Paul Barber / Tamworth Herald)
“I remember Ron Sims saying to me at the time ‘play on for as long as you can because you are a long time retired’.
“He was definitely right and, as I say, I’d still love to be out there!
“But it’s nice to have those memories. To represent my home town, to captain Tamworth, at Wembley, well it was an absolute dream come true.
“Of everything we achieved that year, I think, without doubt, walking out on to the pitch at Wembley was the biggest highlight.
“It made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
“I can still recall the rumble, the noise from fans as we prepared to go through the tunnel. It was unbelievable.
“For me, it was made even more special by the fact my family were there. My mom and dad were very supportive of me through my football career.
"They didn’t miss a game I played in up until my retirement and so when I came out on to the pitch, to look up and see my dad there, crying, it was really emotional.”
As captain, Bobby also had the honour of lifting the trophy once Tamworth ‘finished the job’ in the replay at Peterborough.
That feeling of holding the FA Vase aloft is something he finds hard to describe.
“To lift that massive cup, well it was incredible,” he said. “It’s hard to describe all the emotions you have."
“It made me realise how an athlete at the Olympic Games must feel when collecting a gold medal, it was just amazing. I feel really honoured to have had the fantastic opportunity to captain the side.”
Fan favourite Martin Myers, meanwhile, admits he will always look back on the Vase experience with affection.
“I remember walking out on the pitch at Wembley for the first time and just thinking: ‘This is like a carpet!’,” he said. “It was certainly different to what we were used to!
“For me, that day was the highlight of my career. We actually struggled on the day, I seem to remember. Sudbury were a good team and should have won.
“The replay at Peterborough was a different game entirely. We just murdered them. It was a fantastic feeling to win the cup.
“I loved my whole time at Tamworth. I was always a loyal type of player if I enjoyed it somewhere. If I loved a club, I would rather stay there and that’s why I spent six or seven seasons at The Lamb. It was a special time, with special players and special fans.”
The last word should go to manager Graham Smith, though, the man who masterminded the FA Vase success.
At his home in Cyprus, a picture of the 1989 squad still graces a wall, hanging proudly above a small bar – certainly something for him to raise a glass to.
It’s a treasured companion, offering Graham a daily visit to a wonderful time, a period when his players made Lambs history.
“I still have my picture of all the players,” he says.
“It’s pride of place in my house. I look at it every day and I salute the players every time I walk past it. They were all great lads, they really were.
“When I look back, it was physically and mentally draining for those few days.
“But the day after we won, I remember pinching myself as I realised what we had achieved. It was a fantastic time."


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Sandwell Council pleads with business to apply for cash grants

Businesses in Sandwell are being urged to apply for grants to help them tackle coronavirus , after 1,700 companies failed to put in applications .
The call to get online and apply comes as the council announced it has paid ‘ lifeline ’ grants worth £28 million to more than 2,400 firms .
Cllr Yvonne Davies , leader of Sandwell Council , has said : “ Our staff continue to pull out all the stops to process applications and make sure businesses receive these ‘ lifeline ’ grants .
“ Most businesses can expect to receive a payment within two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We can only process those requests we have received , so I would urge any business that has not yet applied to get in touch as soon as they possibly can , so we can process their claim.
” Council bosses have said staff are working ‘ flat out ’ to process claims as quickly as possible and have written to more than 5,500 since the start of April asking for key information in order to verify and process claims .
Sandwell has paid 2,436 businesses a total of £27.9 million and 54 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ applied have been processed .
They include 2,072 small business awards of £10,000 and 364 retail hospitality and leisure grants of up to £25,000 .
Clrr Wasim Ali , the council ’ s deputy leader and cabinet member for resources and core services , added : “ We have put in extra resources to telephone those businesses that have yet to reply to us , and our staff are working very hard to check and process all claims .
“ Nearly 600 requests received last week were a direct result of our team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our letter .
Please do get in touch if you are eligible and have not yet responded to us.
” Businesses that believe they may be eligible should apply online at the council 's businesses webpage where they can check the qualifying criteria and complete the form to request a grant .

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Businesses in Sandwell are being urged to apply for grants to help them tackle coronavirus, after 1,700 companies failed to put in applications.
The call to get online and apply comes as the council announced it has paid ‘lifeline’ grants worth £28 million to more than 2,400 firms.
(Image: Surrey Advertiser)
Cllr Yvonne Davies, leader of Sandwell Council, has said: “Our staff continue to pull out all the stops to process applications and make sure businesses receive these ‘lifeline’ grants.
“Most businesses can expect to receive a payment within two weeks of submitting a claim.
“We can only process those requests we have received, so I would urge any business that has not yet applied to get in touch as soon as they possibly can, so we can process their claim.”
Council bosses have said staff are working ‘flat out’ to process claims as quickly as possible and have written to more than 5,500 since the start of April asking for key information in order to verify and process claims.
Sandwell has paid 2,436 businesses a total of £27.9 million and 54 percent of grants to businesses that have applied have been processed.
They include 2,072 small business awards of £10,000 and 364 retail hospitality and leisure grants of up to £25,000.
Clrr Wasim Ali, the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for resources and core services, added: “We have put in extra resources to telephone those businesses that have yet to reply to us, and our staff are working very hard to check and process all claims.
“Nearly 600 requests received last week were a direct result of our team phoning businesses that had not replied to our letter. Please do get in touch if you are eligible and have not yet responded to us.”
Businesses that believe they may be eligible should apply online at the council's businesses webpage where they can check the qualifying criteria and complete the form to request a grant.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Stephen Warnock sends 'furious' West Brom message to Premier League

Championship clubs would have every right to be 'furious ' if relegation from the Premier League is scrapped , according to Stephen Warnock .
Discussions over restarting the season were ramped up a meeting between top-flight clubs on Friday , where plans to play out the remaining fixtures at neutral venues were presented .
West Bromwich Albion are watching any top-flight developments intently as they bid to secure promotion from the Championship .
But it was revealed some Premier League clubs voiced concerns over the proposal and reportedly want the threat of relegation taken away by league bosses before returning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com Former Elland Road full-back Warnock told Football Ramble Daily : `` I don ’ t actually agree with that with the no relegation , if I ’ m being honest , cause if you look at the teams in the Championship , and you ’ re thinking of Leeds , West Brom , Fulham , the teams in and around the play-off places .
`` The financial gains for them to go up are incredible .
These teams have worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just this season now , it ’ s work that ’ s been going on for a number of seasons , especially when you ’ re looking at Leeds .
You think about how they ’ ve gone about their business over the last couple of years trying to get out of the Championship .
`` And for someone to turn round and just say , 'thanks for all your efforts this year , but it ’ s not been quite good enough… we ’ ll give you compensation of x amount of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to try and get out of that league again . '
`` It ’ s not as simple as that , it doesn ’ t just come down to the size of the club and the manager who ’ s in charge .
The Championship is a ferocious league and it ’ s very difficult to get out of , as Leeds have found out since they ’ ve been in there .
So when you ’ re talking about the integrity and the honesty of the leagues , we need relegation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have to finish this season .
If we null and void it , it will never have been the correct way , it will always be ‘ that was the wrong decision , we should have waited , why did we have to do things so quick ’ . ''
“ I think that ’ s what it all comes down to again – why are we in such a rush to get this sorted ?
If I was a Leeds player , I ’ d be furious , because they , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , have all worked so , so hard and you want to pick a trophy up at the end of it or you want to be promoted .
`` You want that final day feeling of getting promoted , that sensation .
That could be taken away from them .
There ’ s so many things that could potentially happen in football that we just don ’ t know.
” Albion have nine matches left to play and hold a six-point lead over Fulham in third , while Leeds currently top the table @

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Championship clubs would have every right to be 'furious' if relegation from the Premier League is scrapped, according to Stephen Warnock.
Discussions over restarting the season were ramped up a meeting between top-flight clubs on Friday, where plans to play out the remaining fixtures at neutral venues were presented.
West Bromwich Albion are watching any top-flight developments intently as they bid to secure promotion from the Championship.
But it was revealed some Premier League clubs voiced concerns over the proposal and reportedly want the threat of relegation taken away by league bosses before returning to action.
Former Elland Road full-back Warnock told Football Ramble Daily: "I don’t actually agree with that with the no relegation, if I’m being honest, cause if you look at the teams in the Championship, and you’re thinking of Leeds, West Brom, Fulham, the teams in and around the play-off places.
"The financial gains for them to go up are incredible. These teams have worked so tirelessly, so hard throughout not just this season now, it’s work that’s been going on for a number of seasons, especially when you’re looking at Leeds. You think about how they’ve gone about their business over the last couple of years trying to get out of the Championship.
"And for someone to turn round and just say, 'thanks for all your efforts this year, but it’s not been quite good enough… we’ll give you compensation of x amount of money, but you’ve got to try and get out of that league again.'
"It’s not as simple as that, it doesn’t just come down to the size of the club and the manager who’s in charge. The Championship is a ferocious league and it’s very difficult to get out of, as Leeds have found out since they’ve been in there. So when you’re talking about the integrity and the honesty of the leagues, we need relegation and we need promotion as well.
"We have to finish this season. If we null and void it, it will never have been the correct way, it will always be ‘that was the wrong decision, we should have waited, why did we have to do things so quick’."
“I think that’s what it all comes down to again – why are we in such a rush to get this sorted? If I was a Leeds player, I’d be furious, because they, as well as West Brom and Fulham, have all worked so, so hard and you want to pick a trophy up at the end of it or you want to be promoted.
"You want that final day feeling of getting promoted, that sensation. That could be taken away from them. There’s so many things that could potentially happen in football that we just don’t know.”
Albion have nine matches left to play and hold a six-point lead over Fulham in third, while Leeds currently top the table.


birminghammail--2020-05-06--Peter Kay approached for new role in TV show alongside Michelle Keegan

Peter Kay has been offered a role in a new TV show .
The comedian , who returned to our screens two weeks ago as part of BBC One 's Big Night In , has been approached to appear in Brassic .
Peter , from Bolton , has been offered a role in the next series of the Sky show , which is filmed in and around the North West .
The show 's co-creator Danny Brocklehurst says it would be 'amazing ' for the Bolton comic to join the cast .
He told the Daily Star : `` There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good fun to have in .
`` I know Peter Kay loved the show ’ s season one .
`` It ’ d be amazing if we could get him in it . ''
Peter 's appearance on the Beeb two weeks ago was his first TV appearance in two years after his tour was pulled for 'unforeseen family circumstances ' .
He introduced a fan-made segment based on his music video for Tony Christie 's iconic Is This The Way To Amarillo ?
Peter quit his nationwide tour two years ago - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amid unprecedented circumstances .
The comedian is renowned for his roles on shows like Phoenix Nights and Max and Paddy 's Road To Nowhere , as well as Car Share .

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Peter Kay has been offered a role in a new TV show.
The comedian, who returned to our screens two weeks ago as part of BBC One's Big Night In, has been approached to appear in Brassic.
Brassic stars Michelle Keegan and Joe Gilgun.
Peter, from Bolton, has been offered a role in the next series of the Sky show, which is filmed in and around the North West.
The show's co-creator Danny Brocklehurst says it would be 'amazing' for the Bolton comic to join the cast.
He told Sky News: "There are so many people it would be good fun to have in.
(Image: PA)
"I know Peter Kay loved the show’s season one.
"It’d be amazing if we could get him in it."
Peter's appearance on the Beeb two weeks ago was his first TV appearance in two years after his tour was pulled for 'unforeseen family circumstances'.
He introduced a fan-made segment based on his music video for Tony Christie's iconic Is This The Way To Amarillo?
Peter quit his nationwide tour two years ago - including a string of Birmingham dates - amid unprecedented circumstances.
The comedian is renowned for his roles on shows like Phoenix Nights and Max and Paddy's Road To Nowhere, as well as Car Share.