birminghammail--2020-09-23--The conversation which set Semedo up to become £27m Wolves star

After three years at FC Barcelona , Nelson Semedo might have just found the perfect club in Wolverhampton Wanderers .
The £27.6million defender - who made 124 appearances for Barcelona in total - was vilified by supporters after their annihilation at the hands of Bayern Munich in August .
Semedo was among a number of players put up for sale by Barcelona and sources close to the 26-year-old are adamant that Wolves is the best place for him .
“ The environment at Wolves is going to be a big positive for him , ” one source told BirminghamLive as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midlands entered the final stages .
“ With Joao Moutinho , Ruben Neves , Rui Patricio , people supporting him a lot , his family and friends from the national team , it will be very easy for him.
” Barcelona has chewed Semedo up and spat him out .
At Wolves , he will find something different , something much closer to home .
He will become the ninth Portuguese player in Wolves ’ first team squad and while Nuno Espirito Santo stresses that English is the primary language at Compton Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a close second .
Semedo , a shy and quiet character by all accounts , possesses the humility to fit into Nuno ’ s group ethos .
Semedo ’ s every move was scrutinised at Barcelona , whereas at Wolves he becomes part of a closed community where very little noise gets in , and even less gets out .
According to Helder Cristovao , who coached Semedo for three years at Benfica , Wolves is the ideal place for him to resurrect his career .
“ Wolves , for many people , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think for Semedo it ’ s going to be very , very good , ” Cristovao said in an exclusive interview with BirminghamLive .
“ He is going to find a Portuguese family and people who will care about him a lot .
They can support him .
“ With Nuno , and the amazing work he ’ s done with Wolves , I think Semedo is going to grow up much more than in Barcelona.
” Cristovao is quite possibly the most important person in Semedo ’ s story .
When he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also known as Nelsinho ( little Nelson ) - was an attack-minded player who despised his defensive duties .
He played with Portuguese minnows Sintrense until he was 19 and impressed Benfica ’ s scouts as a right winger .
But that all changed when Cristovao decided to transform Semedo into a right-back in 2014 .
Semedo ’ s career with Benfica B was stalling at the time and he had been lined up for a loan move to Louletano before Cristovao pulled him to one side .
“ He ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” explains Cristovao .
“ He prefers it when he has some free space to attack the defence .
“ Because of this I put him at right-back .
When he came to Benfica he played more like a number 10 or a winger , more like this .
“ ( Joao ) Cancelo was the right-back when he came to Benfica and I speak with him because I saw a very good chance for him to be a right-back .
“ He ’ s fast and strong and has the ability to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the beginning he didn ’ t want to play right-back because his dream was to play further forward , but he understood .
Since then he has worked a lot and he deserves what he has achieved in this moment .
I am very happy for him.
” While his defensive game has improved immeasurably since those early days at Benfica , Semedo is still far more effective going forward .
Nuno has already recognised this and believes Semedo ’ s game can move up another level playing at right wing-back .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prodigy ’ s qualities are well suited to Nuno ’ s way of playing .
“ The system is going to help him .
Wolves play 3-4-3 and 3-5-2 sometimes , that ’ s going to help him a lot .
“ It will give him freedom .
I see some games where Semedo is very shy because of the pressure to play in Barcelona all the time and to give good performances .
I think he can play different football to what he has shown sometimes .
“ He can now have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cover his back .
And they have a strong guy in front in Adama ( Traore ) .
” Dozens of players have been tipped to replace Matt Doherty following his move to Tottenham Hotspur but once Semedo became available , it was clear he was the stand-out candidate .
The best years of his career are still to come and he ticks virtually every box on Wolves ’ recruitment sheet .
Competition is fierce at right-back for Portugal but a move to the city dubbed ‘ Portuhampton ’ will only enhance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his 13 caps .
“ He ’ s a very competitive guy , ” Cristovao concludes , “ he ’ s very focused and wants to win all the time .
He has this desire to improve in every training session .
“ Wolverhampton has a fantastic scouting team and everyone knows Semedo from the national team , they already know what to expect from him .
”

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After three years at FC Barcelona, Nelson Semedo might have just found the perfect club in Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The £27.6million defender - who made 124 appearances for Barcelona in total - was vilified by supporters after their annihilation at the hands of Bayern Munich in August.
Semedo was among a number of players put up for sale by Barcelona and sources close to the 26-year-old are adamant that Wolves is the best place for him.
(Image: wolves.co.uk)
“The environment at Wolves is going to be a big positive for him,” one source told BirminghamLive as the deal to bring Semedo to the Midlands entered the final stages.
“With Joao Moutinho, Ruben Neves, Rui Patricio, people supporting him a lot, his family and friends from the national team, it will be very easy for him.”
Barcelona has chewed Semedo up and spat him out. At Wolves, he will find something different, something much closer to home.
He will become the ninth Portuguese player in Wolves’ first team squad and while Nuno Espirito Santo stresses that English is the primary language at Compton Park, Semedo’s native tongue is a close second.
Semedo, a shy and quiet character by all accounts, possesses the humility to fit into Nuno’s group ethos.
Semedo’s every move was scrutinised at Barcelona, whereas at Wolves he becomes part of a closed community where very little noise gets in, and even less gets out.
According to Helder Cristovao, who coached Semedo for three years at Benfica, Wolves is the ideal place for him to resurrect his career.
“Wolves, for many people, is a step behind, but I think for Semedo it’s going to be very, very good,” Cristovao said in an exclusive interview with BirminghamLive.
“He is going to find a Portuguese family and people who will care about him a lot. They can support him.
“With Nuno, and the amazing work he’s done with Wolves, I think Semedo is going to grow up much more than in Barcelona.”
Cristovao is quite possibly the most important person in Semedo’s story. When he joined Benfica in 2012, Semedo - also known as Nelsinho (little Nelson) - was an attack-minded player who despised his defensive duties.
He played with Portuguese minnows Sintrense until he was 19 and impressed Benfica’s scouts as a right winger.
But that all changed when Cristovao decided to transform Semedo into a right-back in 2014.
Semedo’s career with Benfica B was stalling at the time and he had been lined up for a loan move to Louletano before Cristovao pulled him to one side.
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“He’s a very fast player with good technique,” explains Cristovao. “He prefers it when he has some free space to attack the defence.
“Because of this I put him at right-back. When he came to Benfica he played more like a number 10 or a winger, more like this.
“(Joao) Cancelo was the right-back when he came to Benfica and I speak with him because I saw a very good chance for him to be a right-back.
“He’s fast and strong and has the ability to find spaces from behind.
“In the beginning he didn’t want to play right-back because his dream was to play further forward, but he understood. Since then he has worked a lot and he deserves what he has achieved in this moment. I am very happy for him.”
While his defensive game has improved immeasurably since those early days at Benfica, Semedo is still far more effective going forward.
Nuno has already recognised this and believes Semedo’s game can move up another level playing at right wing-back.
And Cristovao is in little doubt that his prodigy’s qualities are well suited to Nuno’s way of playing.
“The system is going to help him. Wolves play 3-4-3 and 3-5-2 sometimes, that’s going to help him a lot.
“It will give him freedom. I see some games where Semedo is very shy because of the pressure to play in Barcelona all the time and to give good performances. I think he can play different football to what he has shown sometimes.
“He can now have that freedom with three guys behind him to cover his back. And they have a strong guy in front in Adama (Traore).”
(Image: wolves.co.uk)
Dozens of players have been tipped to replace Matt Doherty following his move to Tottenham Hotspur but once Semedo became available, it was clear he was the stand-out candidate.
The best years of his career are still to come and he ticks virtually every box on Wolves’ recruitment sheet.
Competition is fierce at right-back for Portugal but a move to the city dubbed ‘Portuhampton’ will only enhance Semedo’s chances of adding to his 13 caps.
“He’s a very competitive guy,” Cristovao concludes, “he’s very focused and wants to win all the time. He has this desire to improve in every training session.
“Wolverhampton has a fantastic scouting team and everyone knows Semedo from the national team, they already know what to expect from him.”


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Arrest after attempted carjacking at 'gun point'

A man has been arrested after an attempted carjacking at 'gun point ' in Walsall .
Cops were called to Blackthorne Road at 3.30pm on Tuesday , September 22 , after a driver was threatened with a 'gun ' .
Following a search of the area , PD Wez and his handler spotted a gang of men fleeing from the car suspected of being involved .
One of the men was tracked down by the trusty canine and was detained - however the suspect was bitten during the arrest and suffered a minor injury .
He was taken to hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the incident in due course .
Officers also discovered an imitation firearm and a knife after searching the car .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` A man has been arrested and weapons recovered following a suspected carjacking in Walsall yesterday ( September 22 ) .
`` Officers were called to Blackthorne Road at 3.30pm after reports that a driver had been threatened with a gun .
`` Following an area search , PD Wez and his handler saw three people fleeing the car suspected to have been involved .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspects down and he was detained .
Following a search of the vehicle an imitation firearm and a knife were recovered .
`` During the arrest the suspect was bitten and suffered a minor injury , he was taken to hospital for treatment .
He will be questioned about the incident in due course . ''
Anyone with information is asked to contact the police via Live Chat on our website or call 101 quoting crime reference number 20WS/229538M/20 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jordan Coussins, Charlotte Regen)

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A man has been arrested after an attempted carjacking at 'gun point' in Walsall.
Cops were called to Blackthorne Road at 3.30pm on Tuesday, September 22, after a driver was threatened with a 'gun'.
Following a search of the area, PD Wez and his handler spotted a gang of men fleeing from the car suspected of being involved.
One of the men was tracked down by the trusty canine and was detained - however the suspect was bitten during the arrest and suffered a minor injury.
He was taken to hospital for treatment and will be quizzed about the incident in due course.
Officers also discovered an imitation firearm and a knife after searching the car.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "A man has been arrested and weapons recovered following a suspected carjacking in Walsall yesterday (September 22).
"Officers were called to Blackthorne Road at 3.30pm after reports that a driver had been threatened with a gun.
"Following an area search, PD Wez and his handler saw three people fleeing the car suspected to have been involved.
"PD Wez tracked one of the suspects down and he was detained. Following a search of the vehicle an imitation firearm and a knife were recovered.
"During the arrest the suspect was bitten and suffered a minor injury, he was taken to hospital for treatment. He will be questioned about the incident in due course."
Anyone with information is asked to contact the police via Live Chat on our website or call 101 quoting crime reference number 20WS/229538M/20.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Jaguar Land Rover confirms more positive Covid-19 cases at two more sites

Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed a total of 37 coronavirus cases amongst its workforce across three of its sites in the West Midlands .
The luxury car manufacturer said that seven cases were at its factory in Castle Bromwich , while two others were at its engine plant in Wolverhampton .
It had earlier confirmed that 28 associates tested positive for the virus at its site in Solihull , although four had since returned to work having self-isolated .
JLR described these latest developments as `` isolated cases . ''
They said they were taking all the necessary steps to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Public Health England guidelines .
A JLR spokeswoman told BirminghamLive : “ There have been seven positive Covid cases at Castle Bromwich and two at Wolverhampton . ''
Employees have all self-isolated with contact tracing is in place to reduce the chance of the virus being passed on , JLR said .
The spokeswoman added : `` We , like the rest of the country , are seeing some isolated cases of Covid-19 .
A small number of employees based at our Solihull manufacturing facility have tested positive for Covid-19 and are self-isolating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in conjunction with Public Health England and Solihull Council , we have identified anyone who has been in close contact with those individuals at work and they are also self-isolating .
“ The health of our workforce remains our primary concern and a deep clean of the area has been undertaken .
We continue to follow all government and NHS advice.
” Covid-19 cases at the Solihull site had started with four on September 3 , which rose to 11 on September 8 .
Days later it increased to 14 before JLR said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since September 22 .
The company said an extensive review of all production lines , engineering facilities , office areas and communal spaces to ensure effective social distancing , hygiene and health monitoring measures are in place .
JLR added that employees ’ health and wellbeing `` are at the centre of this plan . ''

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Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed a total of 37 coronavirus cases amongst its workforce across three of its sites in the West Midlands.
The luxury car manufacturer said that seven cases were at its factory in Castle Bromwich, while two others were at its engine plant in Wolverhampton.
It had earlier confirmed that 28 associates tested positive for the virus at its site in Solihull, although four had since returned to work having self-isolated.
(Image: PA)
JLR described these latest developments as "isolated cases." They said they were taking all the necessary steps to protect their staff and follow Government and Public Health England guidelines.
A JLR spokeswoman told BirminghamLive: “There have been seven positive Covid cases at Castle Bromwich and two at Wolverhampton."
Employees have all self-isolated with contact tracing is in place to reduce the chance of the virus being passed on, JLR said.
The spokeswoman added: "We, like the rest of the country, are seeing some isolated cases of Covid-19. A small number of employees based at our Solihull manufacturing facility have tested positive for Covid-19 and are self-isolating.
"Through contact tracing and working in conjunction with Public Health England and Solihull Council, we have identified anyone who has been in close contact with those individuals at work and they are also self-isolating.
“The health of our workforce remains our primary concern and a deep clean of the area has been undertaken. We continue to follow all government and NHS advice.”
Covid-19 cases at the Solihull site had started with four on September 3, which rose to 11 on September 8. Days later it increased to 14 before JLR said a total of 28 staff had isolated since September 22.
The company said an extensive review of all production lines, engineering facilities, office areas and communal spaces to ensure effective social distancing, hygiene and health monitoring measures are in place.
JLR added that employees’ health and wellbeing "are at the centre of this plan."


birminghammail--2020-09-23--UK coronavirus cases rise by 6,100 in third worst day of entire pandemic

The Government said that as of 9am on Wednesday , there had been a further 6,178 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK , taking the overall number of cases confirmed to 409,729 .
It also said a further 37 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Wednesday .
This brings the UK total to 41,862 .
Separate figures published by the UK 's statistics agencies show there have now been 57,500 deaths registered in the UK where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate .
Sir Patrick Vallance , the Government 's chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK could see 50,000 Covid-19 cases a day by mid-October , and a daily death toll of 200 or more a month later , unless urgent action is taken .
Downing Street has said further households in England may be prevented from mixing indoors in areas of local lockdown but ministers were resisting bringing in a Scottish-style nationwide ban .
Asked why the Government rejected a nationwide ban on household visits , the Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` We introduced a week ago new restrictions on mixing between households @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six which we think provides clarity for people as to how they can help to break the chain of transmission between households .
`` Separately that 's a policy we 've adopted in the local lockdown areas .
There are very significant parts of England where two households are n't able to meet indoors and it 's a policy we may well decide we need to apply in other localised parts of England . ''
In response to suggestions from Government advisers Professor Peter Openshaw and Professor John Edmunds that extra measures would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientists thought the restrictions were already too tough .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` There are also scientists on the other side of the argument saying that we have gone too far .
`` There will always be a range of scientific opinion .
The Prime Minister has canvassed the full range of scientific opinion in the formulation of this package and we believe that it has a significant role to play in driving down the rate of infection . ''

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The Government said that as of 9am on Wednesday, there had been a further 6,178 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK, taking the overall number of cases confirmed to 409,729.
It also said a further 37 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Wednesday. This brings the UK total to 41,862.
Separate figures published by the UK's statistics agencies show there have now been 57,500 deaths registered in the UK where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate.
Sir Patrick Vallance, the Government's chief scientific adviser, earlier this week claimed the UK could see 50,000 Covid-19 cases a day by mid-October, and a daily death toll of 200 or more a month later, unless urgent action is taken.
Downing Street has said further households in England may be prevented from mixing indoors in areas of local lockdown but ministers were resisting bringing in a Scottish-style nationwide ban.
Asked why the Government rejected a nationwide ban on household visits, the Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "We introduced a week ago new restrictions on mixing between households, we brought in the rule of six which we think provides clarity for people as to how they can help to break the chain of transmission between households.
"Separately that's a policy we've adopted in the local lockdown areas. There are very significant parts of England where two households aren't able to meet indoors and it's a policy we may well decide we need to apply in other localised parts of England."
In response to suggestions from Government advisers Professor Peter Openshaw and Professor John Edmunds that extra measures would be needed, Downing Street said other scientists thought the restrictions were already too tough.
The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "There are also scientists on the other side of the argument saying that we have gone too far.
"There will always be a range of scientific opinion. The Prime Minister has canvassed the full range of scientific opinion in the formulation of this package and we believe that it has a significant role to play in driving down the rate of infection."


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Aston Villa have two Premier League fixtures moved for TV coverage

Aston Villa have had another Premier League fixture rescheduled for live TV coverage .
The top-flight released the revised schedule for the first weekend of October on Wednesday and Villa 's trip to Liverpool is among the matches moved .
Jurgen Klopp 's side were originally due to visit Villa Park for a 3pm kick-off on Saturday , October 3 .
The clash has been put back to Sunday , October 4 to be screened live on Sky Sports with a kick-off time of 7:15pm .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Villa 's trip to Fulham has also had its kick-off time altered .
It was confirmed earlier in the month that the match at Craven Cottage had been moved to from its original date of Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kick off at 6pm on Monday , September 28 but will now begin at the slightly earlier time of 5:45pm although Sky Sports will still screen the game live .
A statement on the Premier League website said : `` Following the UK Government 's announcement yesterday that pubs will close at 22:00 , midweek Premier League fixtures will now take place at 17:45 and 20:00 .
`` These new kick-off times come into effect from Monday 28 September , with Fulham now hosting Aston Villa at 17:45 BST and Arsenal 's trip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Villa began their top-flight campaign with a win against Sheffield United on Monday having beaten Burton Albion last week to reach the third round of the Carabao Cup .
Every Premier League match in September and the first weekend of October is being shown live with fans still prevented from attending games because of the coronavirus pandemic .

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Aston Villa have had another Premier League fixture rescheduled for live TV coverage.
The top-flight released the revised schedule for the first weekend of October on Wednesday and Villa's trip to Liverpool is among the matches moved.
Jurgen Klopp's side were originally due to visit Villa Park for a 3pm kick-off on Saturday, October 3.
The clash has been put back to Sunday, October 4 to be screened live on Sky Sports with a kick-off time of 7:15pm.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Villa's trip to Fulham has also had its kick-off time altered.
It was confirmed earlier in the month that the match at Craven Cottage had been moved to from its original date of Sunday, September 27.
It was supposed to kick off at 6pm on Monday, September 28 but will now begin at the slightly earlier time of 5:45pm although Sky Sports will still screen the game live.
A statement on the Premier League website said: "Following the UK Government's announcement yesterday that pubs will close at 22:00, midweek Premier League fixtures will now take place at 17:45 and 20:00.
"These new kick-off times come into effect from Monday 28 September, with Fulham now hosting Aston Villa at 17:45 BST and Arsenal's trip to Liverpool now starting at 20:00 BST."
Villa began their top-flight campaign with a win against Sheffield United on Monday having beaten Burton Albion last week to reach the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Every Premier League match in September and the first weekend of October is being shown live with fans still prevented from attending games because of the coronavirus pandemic.


birminghammail--2020-09-23--Anti-social tenants face eviction again, as ban ends

MPs have welcomed the end of a ban on evictions , saying it will provide an opportunity for landlords to kick out anti-social tenants .
Birmingham MP Gary Sambrook said some tenants used the ban as an opportunity to make life miserable for their neighbours .
The Government stopped landlords from evicting tenants during the coronavirus lockdown , due to fears that many people would struggle to pay their rent after having their incomes cut , but the ban came to an end this week .
Labour and the Liberal Democrats have called for the ban to continue , saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rent now face losing their homes through no fault of their own .
But a number of backbench MPs spoke in the House of Commons to say they welcomed the prospect of landlords taking action to evict anti-social tenants .
Birmingham Northfield MP Gary Sambrook ( Con ) said : `` The government was absolutely right to protect renters over the last six months , but unfortunately some people have misused that protection by causing unnecessary levels of anti-social behaviour in streets , and law abiding citizens have had to put up with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time now to lift the ban , so that people can go back to a good quality of life in the strreets and not have to put up with anti-social behaviour . ''
Warley MP John Spellar ( Lab ) said `` decent , honest tenants '' should not lose their home because of the Covid-19 crisis .
He added : `` But there is another , smaller group of anti-social tenants who are ruining the lives of their neighbours by their behaviour , and seem to think that at the moment they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister Christopher Pincher : `` Will the minister ensure that councils and the courts have the powers and capacity , and are fully aware of this , to take action against anti-social tenants and fast ? ''
Mr Pincher , the MP for Tamworth , said the Government had introduced rules allowing landlords to regain possession of their properties within four weeks if tenants were anti-social .
Speaking on behalf of the Government , he said : `` I think that 's the right balance of fairness between those tenants who have fallen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own and those tenants who abuse their rights and privileges , the courts should take action against them . ''
Eviction hearings can now resume in courts and cases involving domestic violence or anti-social behaviour will be heard first .
People who are simply unable to pay their rent also now face the possibility of being evicted .
However , while the ban has been lifted , the Government has changed the rules so that landlords have to give six months ’ notice in most cases .
Mr Pincher told the Commons the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ landlords and to renters ” .
He said : “ The Government has taken unprecedented action to support renters by banning evictions for six months , preventing people getting into financial hardship and helping business to pay salaries .
“ We ’ ve now introduced comprehensive measures to ensure renters continue to be protected over the autumn and winter , following the resumption of possession proceedings on Monday .
“ However we must strike a balance so that landlords are able to access justice alongside measures to protect the vulnerable .
“ This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the private-rented sector.
” Mr Pincher said the judiciary will “ look to prioritise the most serious cases , including anti-social behaviour , fraud and egregious rent arrears ” and increase notice periods to six months “ in all but the most serious cases ” .
However , shadow housing secretary Thangam Debbonaire branded the move to end the eviction moratorium “ scandalous ” .
She said : “ It ’ s scandalous that this Government is lifting the ban just as we ’ re heading into a second wave of coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ had summer to develop their plan and wasted it .
They now choose to withdraw the protection of the evictions ban exactly when it ’ s most needed .
“ We ’ re likely to see a rise in evictions and homelessness because of this Government incompetence .
The Government must act now to prevent a wave of evictions just as Covid is rising this winter , and honour their promise to landlords and renters .
”

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MPs have welcomed the end of a ban on evictions, saying it will provide an opportunity for landlords to kick out anti-social tenants.
Birmingham MP Gary Sambrook said some tenants used the ban as an opportunity to make life miserable for their neighbours.
The Government stopped landlords from evicting tenants during the coronavirus lockdown, due to fears that many people would struggle to pay their rent after having their incomes cut, but the ban came to an end this week.
Labour and the Liberal Democrats have called for the ban to continue, saying that thousands who cannot pay their rent now face losing their homes through no fault of their own.
But a number of backbench MPs spoke in the House of Commons to say they welcomed the prospect of landlords taking action to evict anti-social tenants.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
Birmingham Northfield MP Gary Sambrook (Con) said: "The government was absolutely right to protect renters over the last six months, but unfortunately some people have misused that protection by causing unnecessary levels of anti-social behaviour in streets, and law abiding citizens have had to put up with that.
"It's the right time now to lift the ban, so that people can go back to a good quality of life in the strreets and not have to put up with anti-social behaviour."
Warley MP John Spellar (Lab) said "decent, honest tenants" should not lose their home because of the Covid-19 crisis. He added: "But there is another, smaller group of anti-social tenants who are ruining the lives of their neighbours by their behaviour, and seem to think that at the moment they are untouchable."
He asked Housing Minister Christopher Pincher: "Will the minister ensure that councils and the courts have the powers and capacity, and are fully aware of this, to take action against anti-social tenants and fast?"
Mr Pincher, the MP for Tamworth, said the Government had introduced rules allowing landlords to regain possession of their properties within four weeks if tenants were anti-social.
Speaking on behalf of the Government, he said: "I think that's the right balance of fairness between those tenants who have fallen into difficulties through no fault of their own and those tenants who abuse their rights and privileges, the courts should take action against them."
Eviction hearings can now resume in courts and cases involving domestic violence or anti-social behaviour will be heard first.
People who are simply unable to pay their rent also now face the possibility of being evicted. However, while the ban has been lifted, the Government has changed the rules so that landlords have to give six months’ notice in most cases.
Mr Pincher told the Commons the Government has “honoured its promise to landlords and to renters”.
He said: “The Government has taken unprecedented action to support renters by banning evictions for six months, preventing people getting into financial hardship and helping business to pay salaries.
“We’ve now introduced comprehensive measures to ensure renters continue to be protected over the autumn and winter, following the resumption of possession proceedings on Monday.
“However we must strike a balance so that landlords are able to access justice alongside measures to protect the vulnerable.
“This is vital to the long-term health of the private-rented sector.”
Mr Pincher said the judiciary will “look to prioritise the most serious cases, including anti-social behaviour, fraud and egregious rent arrears” and increase notice periods to six months “in all but the most serious cases”.
However, shadow housing secretary Thangam Debbonaire branded the move to end the eviction moratorium “scandalous”.
She said: “It’s scandalous that this Government is lifting the ban just as we’re heading into a second wave of coronavirus.
“As with testing, this Government had summer to develop their plan and wasted it. They now choose to withdraw the protection of the evictions ban exactly when it’s most needed.
“We’re likely to see a rise in evictions and homelessness because of this Government incompetence. The Government must act now to prevent a wave of evictions just as Covid is rising this winter, and honour their promise to landlords and renters.”


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Binmen behaving badly - watch as rubbish collector KICKS waste along city street

A rubbish collector has been slammed by residents - and the city council - after being caught KICKING a bag of waste down a street after it fell from a wheelie bin .
The binman was captured on CCTV leaving the waste discarded on the ground after it fell from a bin on Stanmore Road , Edgbaston , on Wednesday - September 23 .
A resident was shocked when he checked his security camera to find out how the rubbish had come to be strewn across the road .
The footage showed waste collectors emptying wheelie bins into the back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a kerb - narrowly missing a parked car and spilling rubbish bags on to the road .
Instead of picking them up , one binman kicked the bags of waste across the road before continuing on his round .
Watch the video above .
The rubbish spilled out from the bag and was left blocking a disabled parking space .
The furious homeowner whose CCTV captured the incident said : `` I reported it to Birmingham City Council .
It 's truly shocking to see .
Are binmen not supposed to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more mess !
`` There are people who need jobs right now and there 's people like this who do n't appreciate their jobs .
`` This happened on a disabled parking space , restricting access for the homeowner next door .
Disgusting ! ''
The footage was passed on to the city council and they confirmed the person involved would be 'spoken to ' .
A Birmingham City Council spokeswoman said : `` The vast majority of our hard-working crew behave professionally and responsibly so it is disappointing to see this .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be speaking to the person involved . ''

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A rubbish collector has been slammed by residents - and the city council - after being caught KICKING a bag of waste down a street after it fell from a wheelie bin.
The binman was captured on CCTV leaving the waste discarded on the ground after it fell from a bin on Stanmore Road, Edgbaston, on Wednesday - September 23.
A resident was shocked when he checked his security camera to find out how the rubbish had come to be strewn across the road.
The footage showed waste collectors emptying wheelie bins into the back of a wagon, before one overturned on a kerb - narrowly missing a parked car and spilling rubbish bags on to the road.
Instead of picking them up, one binman kicked the bags of waste across the road before continuing on his round. Watch the video above.
The rubbish spilled out from the bag and was left blocking a disabled parking space.
The furious homeowner whose CCTV captured the incident said: "I reported it to Birmingham City Council. It's truly shocking to see. Are binmen not supposed to keep the streets clean? They are making more mess!
"There are people who need jobs right now and there's people like this who don't appreciate their jobs.
"This happened on a disabled parking space, restricting access for the homeowner next door. Disgusting!"
The footage was passed on to the city council and they confirmed the person involved would be 'spoken to'.
A Birmingham City Council spokeswoman said: "The vast majority of our hard-working crew behave professionally and responsibly so it is disappointing to see this.
"We will, of course, be speaking to the person involved."


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Seven announcements Rishi Sunak just made as furlough ends

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said he will explain the next phase of the Government 's economic response to coronavirus .
The Chancellor will today unveil what happens when the furlough scheme comes to an end next month , amid fears that huge numbers of job losses will leave the economy in tatters .
He told MPs in the Commons : `` Earlier this week the Prime Minister set out the next stage of the Government 's health response to coronavirus .
Today , I want to explain the next phase of our planned economic response .
`` The House will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans to protect jobs and the economy over the winter period .
`` Plans that seek to strike the finely judged balance between managing the virus and protecting the jobs and livelihoods of millions . ''
This is everything the Chancellor announced : The Chancellor has outlined plans to keep employees in work if their hours are slashed .
Addressing MPs in the House of Commons , he admitted it would not be possible to save all jobs , stating : “ I said throughout this crisis that I can ’ t save @ @ @ @ @ @ @ save every job , no Chancellor could do that.
” He said the government would provide support for employees by paying up to two thirds of wages for those who have their hours cut .
It will come into effect in November , and will be in place for six months .
Mr Sunak said the scheme will cover `` two-thirds of the pay they have lost by reducing their working hours '' .
He told the Commons : `` The Jobs Support Scheme is built on three principles .
`` First , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure of that employees must work at least a third of their normal hours and be paid for that work as normal by their employer .
The Government , together with employers , will then increase those people 's wages covering two-thirds of the pay they have lost by reducing their working hours , and the employee will keep their job .
`` Second , we will target support at firms who need it the most .
All small and medium-sized businesses are eligible but larger businesses only when their turnover has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it will be open to employers across the United Kingdom , even if they have not previously used the furlough scheme .
`` The scheme will run for six months starting in November and employers retaining furloughed staff on shorter hours can claim both the Jobs Support Scheme and the Jobs Retention bonus . ''
The Chancellor is now giving his speech in Parliament .
Rishi Sunak has told the House of Commons that he is “ cautiously optimistic ” after three months of economic growth - but said the recovery is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must be different after providing a “ generous ” £190bn support .
Mr Sunak said he shares the public 's concerns about the continuing impact of the coronavirus pandemic .
`` I know that people are anxious and afraid and exhausted about the prospect of further restrictions on our economic and social freedoms .
I share those feelings , but there are reasons to be cautiously optimistic , '' he said .
Mr Sunak added that the Government has now provided `` over £12 billion for Test and Trace '' .
`` In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ below where it was in February , we have seen three consecutive months of growth and millions of people have moved off the furlough and back to work . ''
The Chancellor said he was extending the self-employed grant on similar terms as the next job support scheme .
Sunak said it is `` fundamentally wrong '' to hold people in jobs that only exist inside the furlough scheme .
He told the Commons : `` Our economy is now likely to undergo a more permanent adjustment .
The sources of our economic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ create will adapt and evolve to the new normal .
`` And our plan needs to adapt and evolve in response .
Above all , we need to face up to the trade offs and hard choices coronavirus presents and there has been no harder choice than to end the furlough scheme .
`` The furlough was the right policy at the time we introduced it , it provided immediate short-term protection for millions of jobs through a period of acute crisis .
`` But as the economy re-opens it is fundamentally wrong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exist inside the furlough . ''
Mr Sunak has announced a `` pay as you grow '' scheme to allow firms to repay bounce back loans over a period of up to 10 years .
Rishi Sunak said bounce back loans have given more than one million small businesses a £38 billion boost to survive , adding a `` pay as you grow '' scheme would be introduced to give these firms more time to repay the loans .
He told the Commons : `` This means loans can now be extended from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the average monthly repayment .
`` Businesses who are struggling can now choose to make interest-only payments and anyone in real trouble can apply to suspend repayments all together for up to six months .
`` No business taking up pay as you grow will see their credit rating affected as a result . ''
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said he would keep VAT at 5 % for hospitality and tourism until March 31 2021 .
Mr Sunak has scrapped a planned increase in VAT rates for businesses in the hospitality and tourism industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 150,000 businesses and 2.4 million employees .
The lower 5 % VAT rate will stay in place until March 31 .
He said : “ Today ’ s measures make an important evolution of our approach , our lives can no longer be put on hold.
” Mr Sunak announced that the temporary reduction of VAT rates from 20 % to 5 % will remain in place until 31 March 2021 .
He said : `` The final step I 'm taking today will support two of the most affected sectors , hospitality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , their VAT rates will increase from 5 % back to the standard rate of 20 % on January 13 .
`` So to support more than 150,000 businesses and help protect 2.4 million jobs through the winter , I 'm announcing today that we are cancelling the planned increase and will keep the lower 5 % VAT rate until March 31 next year . ''
He said : `` It is now clear as the PM and I have said , that for at least the next six months the virus and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our lives . ''
He added : `` I can not save every business .
I can not save every job .
No chancellor could . ''

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Chancellor Rishi Sunak said he will explain the next phase of the Government's economic response to coronavirus.
The Chancellor will today unveil what happens when the furlough scheme comes to an end next month, amid fears that huge numbers of job losses will leave the economy in tatters.
He told MPs in the Commons: "Earlier this week the Prime Minister set out the next stage of the Government's health response to coronavirus. Today, I want to explain the next phase of our planned economic response.
"The House will be reassured to know I have been developing plans to protect jobs and the economy over the winter period.
"Plans that seek to strike the finely judged balance between managing the virus and protecting the jobs and livelihoods of millions."
This is everything the Chancellor announced:
Chancellor announces Job Support Scheme from November
The Chancellor has outlined plans to keep employees in work if their hours are slashed.
Addressing MPs in the House of Commons , he admitted it would not be possible to save all jobs, stating: “I said throughout this crisis that I can’t save every business, I can’t save every job, no Chancellor could do that.”
He said the government would provide support for employees by paying up to two thirds of wages for those who have their hours cut. It will come into effect in November, and will be in place for six months.
Mr Sunak said the scheme will cover "two-thirds of the pay they have lost by reducing their working hours".
He told the Commons: "The Jobs Support Scheme is built on three principles.
"First, it will support viable jobs. To make sure of that employees must work at least a third of their normal hours and be paid for that work as normal by their employer. The Government, together with employers, will then increase those people's wages covering two-thirds of the pay they have lost by reducing their working hours, and the employee will keep their job.
(Image: PA)
"Second, we will target support at firms who need it the most. All small and medium-sized businesses are eligible but larger businesses only when their turnover has fallen through the crisis.
"Third, it will be open to employers across the United Kingdom, even if they have not previously used the furlough scheme.
"The scheme will run for six months starting in November and employers retaining furloughed staff on shorter hours can claim both the Jobs Support Scheme and the Jobs Retention bonus."
Economic recovery is 'fragile'
The Chancellor is now giving his speech in Parliament.
Rishi Sunak has told the House of Commons that he is “cautiously optimistic” after three months of economic growth - but said the recovery is fragile.
He said what comes next must be different after providing a “generous” £190bn support.
Mr Sunak said he shares the public's concerns about the continuing impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
"I know that people are anxious and afraid and exhausted about the prospect of further restrictions on our economic and social freedoms. I share those feelings, but there are reasons to be cautiously optimistic," he said.
Mr Sunak added that the Government has now provided "over £12 billion for Test and Trace".
"In economic terms, while our output remains below where it was in February, we have seen three consecutive months of growth and millions of people have moved off the furlough and back to work."
Self-employed scheme extension
The Chancellor said he was extending the self-employed grant on similar terms as the next job support scheme.
Furlough scheme not extended
Sunak said it is "fundamentally wrong" to hold people in jobs that only exist inside the furlough scheme.
He told the Commons: "Our economy is now likely to undergo a more permanent adjustment. The sources of our economic growth and the kinds of jobs we create will adapt and evolve to the new normal.
"And our plan needs to adapt and evolve in response. Above all, we need to face up to the trade offs and hard choices coronavirus presents and there has been no harder choice than to end the furlough scheme.
"The furlough was the right policy at the time we introduced it, it provided immediate short-term protection for millions of jobs through a period of acute crisis.
"But as the economy re-opens it is fundamentally wrong to hold people in jobs that only exist inside the furlough."
(Image: PA)
"Pay as you grow" scheme
Mr Sunak has announced a "pay as you grow" scheme to allow firms to repay bounce back loans over a period of up to 10 years.
Rishi Sunak said bounce back loans have given more than one million small businesses a £38 billion boost to survive, adding a "pay as you grow" scheme would be introduced to give these firms more time to repay the loans.
He told the Commons: "This means loans can now be extended from six to 10 years, nearly halving the average monthly repayment.
"Businesses who are struggling can now choose to make interest-only payments and anyone in real trouble can apply to suspend repayments all together for up to six months.
"No business taking up pay as you grow will see their credit rating affected as a result."
VAT frozen
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said he would keep VAT at 5% for hospitality and tourism until March 31 2021.
Mr Sunak has scrapped a planned increase in VAT rates for businesses in the hospitality and tourism industry.
He said the move will help 150,000 businesses and 2.4 million employees.
The lower 5% VAT rate will stay in place until March 31.
He said: “Today’s measures make an important evolution of our approach, our lives can no longer be put on hold.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Mr Sunak announced that the temporary reduction of VAT rates from 20% to 5% will remain in place until 31 March 2021.
He said: "The final step I'm taking today will support two of the most affected sectors, hospitality and tourism.
"On current plans, their VAT rates will increase from 5% back to the standard rate of 20% on January 13.
"So to support more than 150,000 businesses and help protect 2.4 million jobs through the winter, I'm announcing today that we are cancelling the planned increase and will keep the lower 5% VAT rate until March 31 next year."
Jobs will be lost
He said: "It is now clear as the PM and I have said, that for at least the next six months the virus and restrictions are going to be part of our lives."
He added: "I cannot save every business. I cannot save every job. No chancellor could."


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Rishi Sunak says Government will subsidise wages for six months

The Government is to subsidise the wages of millions of workers for six months , in an attempt to avoid mass unemployment .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed the plans in an announcement to the House of Commons .
He said : `` I am announcing today the new Jobs Support Scheme .
The Government will directly support the wages of people in work , giving businesses who face depressed demand the option of keeping employees in a job on shorter hours rather than making them redundant . ''
The aim is to help firms that have seen their incomes plummet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and do not have enough work for their staff .
Wages will be subsidised for staff who are working at least a third of their normal hours .
Employers will be expected to pay the salaries for the hours that are worked , and also to make a contribution to the subsidy .
The Chancellor hopes this will allow firms to shift workers onto part-time hours instead of making them redundant , while ensuring employees still have a reasonable income .
Speaking in the House of Commons , Mr Sunak said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To make sure of that employees must work at least a third of their normal hours and be paid for that work as normal by their employer .
The Government , together with employers , will then increase those people ’ s wages covering two-thirds of the pay they have lost by reducing their working hours , and the employee will keep their job . ''
He warned that the radical measures were needed because the coronavirus crisis - and the damage it causes to the economy - was expected to last at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told the House of Commons : `` It is now clear ... for at least the next six months the virus and restrictions are going to be a fact of our lives .
`` Our economy is now likely to undergo a more permanent adjustment . ''
He said there would be no u-turn on the decision to end the furlough scheme - which pays people to stay at home - on October 31 .
But the Government would help businesses employ people .
All small and medium and sized businesses will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses will be eligible if their turnover has fallen .
It will last for six months , starting in November .
Employees do not need to have been placed on furlough to be eligible .
But if they were , firms will also be able to claim the e Job Retention Bonus , which is is a one-off payment from the Treasury of £1,000 for every employee who they previously claimed for under the furlough scheme , and who remains continuously employed through to 31 January 2021 .
Mr Sunak told the House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developing plans to protect jobs and the conomy over thew inter period .
Plans that seek to strike the finely judged balance between managing the virus and protecting the jobs and livelihoods of millions . ''
He said `` there are reasons to be cautiously optimistic '' because we now know far more about the virus .
And he said there had been three consecutive months of economic growth , while millions of people have moved off furlough and back to work .
However he said the virus poses `` a threat to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunak said the Government will provide similar support for the self-employed .
He told the Commons : “ I am extending the existing self-employed grant on similar terms and conditions as the new Jobs Support Scheme.
” Rishi Sunak said bounce back loans have given more than one million small businesses a £38 billion boost to survive , adding a “ pay as you grow ” scheme would be introduced to give these firms more time to repay the loans .
He told the Commons : “ This means loans can now be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearly halving the average monthly repayment .
“ Businesses who are struggling can now choose to make interest-only payments and anyone in real trouble can apply to suspend repayments all together for up to six months .
“ No business taking up pay as you grow will see their credit rating affected as a result .
”

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The Government is to subsidise the wages of millions of workers for six months, in an attempt to avoid mass unemployment.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed the plans in an announcement to the House of Commons.
He said: "I am announcing today the new Jobs Support Scheme. The Government will directly support the wages of people in work, giving businesses who face depressed demand the option of keeping employees in a job on shorter hours rather than making them redundant."
The aim is to help firms that have seen their incomes plummet due to Covid-19 and the ongoing restrictions, and do not have enough work for their staff.
Wages will be subsidised for staff who are working at least a third of their normal hours. Employers will be expected to pay the salaries for the hours that are worked, and also to make a contribution to the subsidy.
The Chancellor hopes this will allow firms to shift workers onto part-time hours instead of making them redundant, while ensuring employees still have a reasonable income.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Sunak said: "It will support viable jobs. To make sure of that employees must work at least a third of their normal hours and be paid for that work as normal by their employer. The Government, together with employers, will then increase those people’s wages covering two-thirds of the pay they have lost by reducing their working hours, and the employee will keep their job."
He warned that the radical measures were needed because the coronavirus crisis - and the damage it causes to the economy - was expected to last at least another six months.
Mr Sunak told the House of Commons: "It is now clear ... for at least the next six months the virus and restrictions are going to be a fact of our lives.
"Our economy is now likely to undergo a more permanent adjustment."
He said there would be no u-turn on the decision to end the furlough scheme - which pays people to stay at home - on October 31. But the Government would help businesses employ people.
All small and medium and sized businesses will be eligible for the scheme, and larger businesses will be eligible if their turnover has fallen. It will last for six months, starting in November.
Employees do not need to have been placed on furlough to be eligible. But if they were, firms will also be able to claim the e Job Retention Bonus, which is is a one-off payment from the Treasury of £1,000 for every employee who they previously claimed for under the furlough scheme, and who remains continuously employed through to 31 January 2021.
Mr Sunak told the House of Commons: "I have been developing plans to protect jobs and the conomy over the winter period. Plans that seek to strike the finely judged balance between managing the virus and protecting the jobs and livelihoods of millions."
He said "there are reasons to be cautiously optimistic" because we now know far more about the virus.
And he said there had been three consecutive months of economic growth, while millions of people have moved off furlough and back to work.
However he said the virus poses "a threat to our fragile economic recovery".
Mr Sunak said the Government will provide similar support for the self-employed.
He told the Commons: “I am extending the existing self-employed grant on similar terms and conditions as the new Jobs Support Scheme.”
Rishi Sunak said bounce back loans have given more than one million small businesses a £38 billion boost to survive, adding a “pay as you grow” scheme would be introduced to give these firms more time to repay the loans.
He told the Commons: “This means loans can now be extended from six to 10 years, nearly halving the average monthly repayment.
“Businesses who are struggling can now choose to make interest-only payments and anyone in real trouble can apply to suspend repayments all together for up to six months.
“No business taking up pay as you grow will see their credit rating affected as a result.”
How exactly does the Jobs Support Scheme Work?
A new Job Support Scheme will be introduced from 1 November to protect viable jobs in businesses who are facing lower demand over the winter months due to coronavirus.
Under the scheme, which will run for six months and help keep employees attached to the workforce, the government will contribute towards the wages of employees who are working fewer than normal hours due to decreased demand.
Employers will continue to pay the wages of staff for the hours they work - but for the hours not worked, the government and the employer will each pay one third of their equivalent salary.
This means employees who can only go back to work on shorter time will still be paid two thirds of the hours for those hours they can’t work
In order to support only viable jobs, employees must be working at least 33% of their usual hours. The level of grant will be calculated based on employee’s usual salary, capped at £697.92 per month.
The Job Support Scheme will be open to businesses across the UK even if they have not previously used the furlough scheme, with further guidance being published in due course.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Blues provide important season ticket & live stream update

Birmingham City are ‘ bitterly disappointed ’ at the cancellation of plans to allow supporters back to St Andrew ’ s .
Like every EFL club Blues have been working on plans that would see some fans return to games - but those have now been shelved amid an intensification of coronavirus restrictions .
It is not now clear when supporters will be able to return to watching live football , sending shockwaves through the EFL .
As a result Blues have had to update their followers about how they can watch matches on television .
A statement read : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during recent months in an effort to bring back supporters to St. Andrew ’ s Trillion Trophy Stadium .
“ We have engaged with local government in addition to regular contact with The EFL , local authorities and the Sports Grounds Safety Authority ( SGSA ) .
“ Unfortunately , an increase in the COVID alert level and Coronavirus infection rates has led to the government tightening regulations at national and local levels .
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest transfer news and comment Why should you sign up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
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Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
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If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store “ The club have been bitterly disappointed by the cancellation of plans for supporters to return to watch live sport in October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken , and ultimately , as a club we were ready and excited to be inviting a limited number of supporters back to the stadium on a matchday.
” The new arrangements do not include a final decision on season tickets although Blues advise any supporter who purchased a season ticket from the 2019/20 season , will still have the option to retain their seat - with more details to come .
Supporters who opted to receive a credit towards their next Birmingham City season ticket will still be able apply this discount @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Details regarding away memberships accumulated from the 2019/20 season , will be communicated at a later date .
Blues Loyalty accounts will remain frozen until further notice .
Supporters will be unable to accrue or spend Loyalty points during this time , all existing balances will become available to spend once the scheme reopens .
BluesTV will be broadcasting every fixture during the 2020/21 campaign , if it has not been selected for Sky Sports coverage , on a Pay-Per-View basis of £10 per game .
The statement continues “ The club hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to St. Andrew ’ s as soon as restrictions allow but for obvious reasons , we are currently unable to offer a date for when this may take place .
“ We will remain in regular dialogue with all the regulatory authorities and The EFL on the matter of COVID and will do all we can to help beat the virus .
”

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Birmingham City are ‘bitterly disappointed’ at the cancellation of plans to allow supporters back to St Andrew’s.
Like every EFL club Blues have been working on plans that would see some fans return to games - but those have now been shelved amid an intensification of coronavirus restrictions.
It is not now clear when supporters will be able to return to watching live football, sending shockwaves through the EFL.
As a result Blues have had to update their followers about how they can watch matches on television.
A statement read: “The club has been working tirelessly during recent months in an effort to bring back supporters to St. Andrew’s Trillion Trophy Stadium.
“We have engaged with local government in addition to regular contact with The EFL, local authorities and the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA).
“Unfortunately, an increase in the COVID alert level and Coronavirus infection rates has led to the government tightening regulations at national and local levels.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
“The club have been bitterly disappointed by the cancellation of plans for supporters to return to watch live sport in October.
“All appropriate measures had been taken, and ultimately, as a club we were ready and excited to be inviting a limited number of supporters back to the stadium on a matchday.”
The new arrangements do not include a final decision on season tickets although Blues advise any supporter who purchased a season ticket from the 2019/20 season, will still have the option to retain their seat - with more details to come.
Supporters who opted to receive a credit towards their next Birmingham City season ticket will still be able apply this discount once season tickets open for purchase.
Details regarding away memberships accumulated from the 2019/20 season, will be communicated at a later date.
Blues Loyalty accounts will remain frozen until further notice. Supporters will be unable to accrue or spend Loyalty points during this time, all existing balances will become available to spend once the scheme reopens.
(Image: Jacob King/PA Wire)
BluesTV will be broadcasting every fixture during the 2020/21 campaign, if it has not been selected for Sky Sports coverage, on a Pay-Per-View basis of £10 per game.
The statement continues “The club hopes to be able to welcome supporters back to St. Andrew’s as soon as restrictions allow but for obvious reasons, we are currently unable to offer a date for when this may take place.
“We will remain in regular dialogue with all the regulatory authorities and The EFL on the matter of COVID and will do all we can to help beat the virus.”


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Victim of Rotherham sex gang slams water park over family nude swim event

A victim of the Rotherham sex gang has hit out at a Staffordshire family-friendly attraction which is hosting a nude family swim event .
Sammy Woodhouse has spoken out against the controversial event being held at Waterworld in Staffordshire .
Sammy , 35 , said : `` Absolutely furious that people and @ WaterWorldStoke are holding a family nude day .
`` What are you playing at ? ''
Sammy has been campaigning against the grooming of youngsters ever since falling victim to the depraved Rotherham gang .
Organiser British Naturism says , despite Covid-19 fears , the event will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its nature in the face of critics .
A British Naturism spokesman said : `` British Naturism is an organisation that has been in existence for over 50 years with many of our clubs being even older .
We have a membership of 9,000 over 18s .
`` We take our safeguarding and health and safety responsibility seriously and review our practices in advance of every event we run .
`` We have a robust child and vulnerable adults safeguarding policy - it ’ s actually rather ignorant of the complainers to assume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We also have a strict ‘ no cameras ’ rule with any photographs to record the event only being taken by our official photographer , who follow certain guidelines about what can be taken .
`` Children at our events are always supervised by their parents and not allowed to attend unaccompanied - unlike schools , churches , scouts , play areas and other venues where parents opt to leave their children in the care of others .
`` Naturist swims are being successfully - and safely - run all around the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who launched gathered 5,000 signatures for a petition against the nude swim last time out , described the event as ' a massive safeguarding issue ' , with 'children being naked around adults neither their parents or themselves know ' .
Emma , from Crewe , said : `` It may be a private event , but children should be protected no matter what and should not be allowed at such events .
`` The solution to this would be either to make it an 18s and over only event or to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop . ''
Waterworld recently underwent a £100,000 makeover , which followed the opening of the multi-million pound Tornado Alley , featuring four super-rides which are among the tallest and fastest in the UK .
Changing rooms have also been upgraded at Waterworld over the past few months with 1,000 new digital lockers , and a new extension providing extra cubicles and private showers is almost complete .

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A victim of the Rotherham sex gang has hit out at a Staffordshire family-friendly attraction which is hosting a nude family swim event.
Sammy Woodhouse has spoken out against the controversial event being held at Waterworld in Staffordshire.
Sammy, 35, said: "Absolutely furious that people and @WaterWorldStoke are holding a family nude day.
"What are you playing at?"
Sammy has been campaigning against the grooming of youngsters ever since falling victim to the depraved Rotherham gang.
Organiser British Naturism says, despite Covid-19 fears, the event will go ahead this Saturday - and defending its nature in the face of critics.
A British Naturism spokesman said: "British Naturism is an organisation that has been in existence for over 50 years with many of our clubs being even older. We have a membership of 9,000 over 18s.
"We take our safeguarding and health and safety responsibility seriously and review our practices in advance of every event we run.
"We have a robust child and vulnerable adults safeguarding policy - it’s actually rather ignorant of the complainers to assume that we don’t.
"We also have a strict ‘no cameras’ rule with any photographs to record the event only being taken by our official photographer, who follow certain guidelines about what can be taken.
"Children at our events are always supervised by their parents and not allowed to attend unaccompanied - unlike schools, churches, scouts, play areas and other venues where parents opt to leave their children in the care of others.
"Naturist swims are being successfully - and safely - run all around the country throughout the year."
Emma Hadaway, who launched gathered 5,000 signatures for a petition against the nude swim last time out, described the event as 'a massive safeguarding issue', with 'children being naked around adults neither their parents or themselves know'.
Emma, from Crewe, said: "It may be a private event, but children should be protected no matter what and should not be allowed at such events.
"The solution to this would be either to make it an 18s and over only event or to not allow the event to happen full stop."
Waterworld recently underwent a £100,000 makeover, which followed the opening of the multi-million pound Tornado Alley, featuring four super-rides which are among the tallest and fastest in the UK.
Changing rooms have also been upgraded at Waterworld over the past few months with 1,000 new digital lockers, and a new extension providing extra cubicles and private showers is almost complete.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Graduates reveal the top 20 companies that they want to work for

Many students have a dream of which company they want to work for at the end of their degree .
Some do n't have a preference but there are some students who aspire to work for a certain company when they graduate - perhaps because of how much they pay or the opportunities that lie ahead .
And with many students heading back to university , they will be aspiring to finish with the best grade possible which will hopefully land them in a good position to grab a job .
A new survey has just been released revealing which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work for .
The team behind www.NationalGraduateWeek.co.uk surveyed more than 15,000 UK-based university students and graduates .
Sharon Walpole , spokesperson for National Graduate Week , commented : “ It ’ s really interesting to see the brands and companies that students hope to work for when completing their studies – some of whom we ’ ve been really fortunate to have leading free webinars throughout this week giving students and graduates top tips , insight into their companies and career advice.
” The top 20 companies that students want to work for @ @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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Many students have a dream of which company they want to work for at the end of their degree.
Some don't have a preference but there are some students who aspire to work for a certain company when they graduate - perhaps because of how much they pay or the opportunities that lie ahead.
And with many students heading back to university, they will be aspiring to finish with the best grade possible which will hopefully land them in a good position to grab a job.
A new survey has just been released revealing which companies students in the country want to work for. The team behind www.NationalGraduateWeek.co.uk surveyed more than 15,000 UK-based university students and graduates.
Sharon Walpole, spokesperson for National Graduate Week, commented: “It’s really interesting to see the brands and companies that students hope to work for when completing their studies – some of whom we’ve been really fortunate to have leading free webinars throughout this week giving students and graduates top tips, insight into their companies and career advice.”
The top 20 companies that students want to work for are as follows.
1. Aldi
2. Amazon
3. NHS
4. Mercedes-Benz
5. BT
6. Balfour Beatty
7. Barclays
8. Network Rail
9. Roche
10. RAF
11. Arcadis
12. Boeing
(Image: 2015 Getty Images | (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images))
13. MBDA
14. Virgin Media
15. NFU Mutual
16. GSK
17. Experian
18. Jaguar Land Rover
19. HSBC
20. Unilever


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Phillip Schofield fights back tears over secret mental health battle

Phillip Schofield has been left visibly moved while detailing his tough mental health battle on This Morning today .
Silver-haired Schofe was sitting next to Holly Willoughby , 39 , when he addressed the struggles he has had mentally .
On the ITV1 daytime TV favourite today , Phil looked emotional as he discussed the tough times he has had .
Speaking to CALM CEO Simon Gunning , he said : `` Over the next few weeks I will be talking quite a lot about my mental health and where my head has been in recent times .
`` And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've got a grip on everything and then suddenly your head takes you to dark and scary places .
`` You say loved ones can be instrumental in helping and there 's no question that I needed a lot of help in recent times with people who sit at the side of me right now , who helped me enormously . ''
Phil continued in his speech to Simon , saying : `` Steph , my wife at home , my girls , my family .
And loved ones can be instrumental in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realise that not everyone is as lucky as I am to have sympathetic ears to listen to and understand how much you can help someone just by listening . ''
`` Ive been to some fairly dark places that when those clouds roll in , '' Phil said .
`` Do n't rush to judge in your life because you do n't realise where it can go quite quickly . ''
This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV and returns tomorrow ( Friday ) .

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Phillip Schofield has been left visibly moved while detailing his tough mental health battle on This Morning today.
Silver-haired Schofe was sitting next to Holly Willoughby, 39, when he addressed the struggles he has had mentally.
On the ITV1 daytime TV favourite today, Phil looked emotional as he discussed the tough times he has had.
Speaking to CALM CEO Simon Gunning, he said: "Over the next few weeks I will be talking quite a lot about my mental health and where my head has been in recent times.
"And it's surprising how you think you've got a grip on everything and then suddenly your head takes you to dark and scary places.
"You say loved ones can be instrumental in helping and there's no question that I needed a lot of help in recent times with people who sit at the side of me right now, who helped me enormously."
Phil continued in his speech to Simon, saying: "Steph, my wife at home, my girls, my family. And loved ones can be instrumental in helping.
"I understand, I realise that not everyone is as lucky as I am to have sympathetic ears to listen to and understand how much you can help someone just by listening."
"Ive been to some fairly dark places that when those clouds roll in," Phil said.
"Don't rush to judge in your life because you don't realise where it can go quite quickly."
This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV and returns tomorrow (Friday).


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Elderly couple given £100 parking fine - when they were actually 70 miles away

A couple were fined at a Midlands retail park - having allegedly spent seven hours - when in reality , they were miles away in Warwickshire .
The pair of pensioners were handed the fine for being at Bulwell retail park for seven hours when they were miles away in Warwick .
Fred and Christine Taylor were sent the fine after visiting Springfield Retail Park car park in Bulwell twice in one day last week .
Fred , 68 , told NottinghamshireLive , our sister title : “ When we got the ticket I said to my wife that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weren ’ t even there , we were spending the day in Warwick .
“ It has been a massive nightmare .
We went into the retail park at around 8am to get petrol from Morrisons and we went again to the supermarket at 3.15pm in the afternoon to get our tea .
Fred said he and Christine had spent ten minutes filling up the car with petrol in the morning and around 30 minutes in the Morrisons supermarket in the afternoon .
He said : “ I would have just paid the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeal it .
We would ’ ve had nowhere else to turn .
“ I spent an hour in Halifax getting bank statements to prove that we were in Warwick for the day .
“ On several occasions , I phoned Premier Park but all I got back was an automated message.
” Fred ’ s daughter Julie said : “ When they got the fine last Wednesday my mum who has dementia was really anxious about it so they were just going to pay it .
It blew them out of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an elderly person and you don ’ t have a smartphone it is very difficult to appeal .
I told them not to pay it out of principle .
“ To have it hanging over them is just stress they don ’ t need .
But they are absolutely not paying it , I will take them to court .
It is totally unacceptable .
“ I am livid about it .
Using fear tactics to force people to pay fines absolutely needs addressing.
” The couple are now awaiting a decision on @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Anna Whittaker, James Rodger)

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A couple were fined at a Midlands retail park - having allegedly spent seven hours - when in reality, they were miles away in Warwickshire.
The pair of pensioners were handed the fine for being at Bulwell retail park for seven hours when they were miles away in Warwick.
Fred and Christine Taylor were sent the fine after visiting Springfield Retail Park car park in Bulwell twice in one day last week.
Fred, 68, told NottinghamshireLive, our sister title: “When we got the ticket I said to my wife that it didn’t make sense as we weren’t even there, we were spending the day in Warwick.
“It has been a massive nightmare. We went into the retail park at around 8am to get petrol from Morrisons and we went again to the supermarket at 3.15pm in the afternoon to get our tea.
“You couldn’t possibly spend seven hours there.”
Fred said he and Christine had spent ten minutes filling up the car with petrol in the morning and around 30 minutes in the Morrisons supermarket in the afternoon.
He said: “I would have just paid the fine without my daughter helping us to appeal it. We would’ve had nowhere else to turn.
“I spent an hour in Halifax getting bank statements to prove that we were in Warwick for the day.
“On several occasions, I phoned Premier Park but all I got back was an automated message.”
Fred’s daughter Julie said: “When they got the fine last Wednesday my mum who has dementia was really anxious about it so they were just going to pay it. It blew them out of the water.
“If you’re an elderly person and you don’t have a smartphone it is very difficult to appeal. I told them not to pay it out of principle.
“To have it hanging over them is just stress they don’t need. But they are absolutely not paying it, I will take them to court. It is totally unacceptable.
“I am livid about it. Using fear tactics to force people to pay fines absolutely needs addressing.”
The couple are now awaiting a decision on their appeal.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Buckingham Palace issue stern statement after Harry breaks royal protocol

Prince Harry has risked a fierce rebuke from the Queen - after a brazen breach of royal protocol .
According to reports , the Prince faces a stern telling off from Her Majesty , having caused an international stir this week .
Harry and wife Meghan Markle were seen together for the first time on public TV this week .
The pair made an appearance in a bid to implore the American electorate to vote .
The Duke of Sussex urged people in the US to “ reject hate speech ” and have their say in the upcoming presidential elections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most important election of our lifetime ” .
Yet , a Buckingham Palace spokesman spoke out and distanced the Firm from his remarks .
They explained : “ The Duke is not a working member of the Royal Family and any comments he makes are made in a personal capacity.
” President Donald Trump took a swipe at the Duchess of Sussex on Wednesday after she and husband Harry participated in a Time 100 video urging Americans to vote .
Meghan , an American , says in the video that every four years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important election of our lifetime .
`` But this one is , '' she stressed .
`` When we vote , our values are put into action and our voices are heard . ''
Harry called on Americans to `` reject hate speech , misinformation and online negativity '' .
Neither mentioned Mr Trump or his Democratic challenger , Joe Biden , by name but some have interpreted their comments as critical of the president .
Mr Trump was asked about the video during a White House press conference , with the reporter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to vote for Joe Biden '' .
`` I 'm not a fan of hers and I would say this , and she probably has heard that , but I wish a lot of luck to Harry .
He 's going to need it , '' Mr Trump replied .

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Prince Harry has risked a fierce rebuke from the Queen - after a brazen breach of royal protocol.
According to reports, the Prince faces a stern telling off from Her Majesty, having caused an international stir this week.
Harry and wife Meghan Markle were seen together for the first time on public TV this week.
The pair made an appearance in a bid to implore the American electorate to vote.
The Duke of Sussex urged people in the US to “reject hate speech” and have their say in the upcoming presidential elections.
Meghan said this was the “most important election of our lifetime”.
(Image: PA)
Yet, a Buckingham Palace spokesman spoke out and distanced the Firm from his remarks.
They explained: “The Duke is not a working member of the Royal Family and any comments he makes are made in a personal capacity.”
President Donald Trump took a swipe at the Duchess of Sussex on Wednesday after she and husband Harry participated in a Time 100 video urging Americans to vote.
Meghan, an American, says in the video that every four years elections are referred to as the most important election of our lifetime. "But this one is," she stressed. "When we vote, our values are put into action and our voices are heard."
Harry called on Americans to "reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity".
Neither mentioned Mr Trump or his Democratic challenger, Joe Biden, by name but some have interpreted their comments as critical of the president.
Mr Trump was asked about the video during a White House press conference, with the reporter saying the couple "essentially encouraged people to vote for Joe Biden".
"I'm not a fan of hers and I would say this, and she probably has heard that, but I wish a lot of luck to Harry. He's going to need it," Mr Trump replied.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--West Brom close in on Filip Krovinovic deal after development

West Brom and Benfica have made significant progress in their negotiations over another loan move for Filip Krovinovic , BirminghamLive understands .
Croatian playmaker Krovinovic , who spent last term on loan at The Hawthorns as the Baggies were led back to the Premier League by his compatriot Slaven Bilic , was high on the Albion boss ’ wish-list this summer .
Negotiations have not been straightforward , however ; talks between Albion and Portuguese giants Benfica have dragged on for most of the summer , with the latter wanting either a permanent deal or a loan with an obligation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up ?
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Google Play Store and App Store Albion would have preferred a loan with an option , rather than an obligation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understood to be neither - this , like last year , is expected to be a straight loan deal for Krovinovic .
It ’ s also understood that Krovinovic , who was wanted by La Liga side Getafe and Serie A outfit Bologna , will sign a new contract at Benfica before rejoining Albion for the duration of the campaign .
Bilic has made no secret previously of his desire to bring Krovinovic back to the club .
The midfielder has been desperate to make his return to The Hawthorns , too ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figure around the club last term with his teammates and staff , particularly Matheus Pereira and Grady Diangana .
Krovinovic has been closely following the beginning of Albion ’ s season from the Portuguese capital too , hoping to be reunited with Pereira , Diangana and Callum Robinson - all of whom have had their loan moves made permanent .
It ’ s hoped that the completion of the deal , which is in its final stages , can be confirmed and announced early next week .
Krovinovic will be the eighth signing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and they remain intent on bringing a forward to the club before the October deadline , with Karlan Grant still high up on their list .

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West Brom and Benfica have made significant progress in their negotiations over another loan move for Filip Krovinovic, BirminghamLive understands.
Croatian playmaker Krovinovic, who spent last term on loan at The Hawthorns as the Baggies were led back to the Premier League by his compatriot Slaven Bilic, was high on the Albion boss’ wish-list this summer.
Negotiations have not been straightforward, however; talks between Albion and Portuguese giants Benfica have dragged on for most of the summer, with the latter wanting either a permanent deal or a loan with an obligation to buy.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Albion would have preferred a loan with an option, rather than an obligation, but in the end it’s understood to be neither - this, like last year, is expected to be a straight loan deal for Krovinovic.
It’s also understood that Krovinovic, who was wanted by La Liga side Getafe and Serie A outfit Bologna, will sign a new contract at Benfica before rejoining Albion for the duration of the campaign.
Bilic has made no secret previously of his desire to bring Krovinovic back to the club.
The midfielder has been desperate to make his return to The Hawthorns, too; he proved to be a very popular figure around the club last term with his teammates and staff, particularly Matheus Pereira and Grady Diangana.
Krovinovic has been closely following the beginning of Albion’s season from the Portuguese capital too, hoping to be reunited with Pereira, Diangana and Callum Robinson - all of whom have had their loan moves made permanent.
It’s hoped that the completion of the deal, which is in its final stages, can be confirmed and announced early next week.
Krovinovic will be the eighth signing that Albion have made this summer, and they remain intent on bringing a forward to the club before the October deadline, with Karlan Grant still high up on their list.