birminghammail--2020-03-17--Tesco reduces hours in hundreds of stores and reveals plans to limit sales

Tesco is set to reduce the hours for hundreds of stores as it copes with the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic .
Bosses at the UK 's biggest supermarket have decided to close all 24-hour stores at 10pm , reopening at 6am on Wednesday morning .
They will continue to open between 6am and 10pm for the immediate future , it is understood .
Staff in stores were informed on Tuesday afternoon .
A Tesco spokeswoman confirmed there will be no cut in pay .
She added : `` We are changing these store hours to ensure we can serve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gives our colleagues the time overnight to restock the store , replenish the shelves and support our online grocery service at a time when demand is high . ''
Details are being updated online with new store opening times , and it is believed some larger 24-hour stores that have pharmacies will remain open beyond 10pm .
It has also introduced tighter purchasing restrictions as panic buyers continue to strip supermarket shelves .
Items including anti-bacterial wipes , dried pasta and toilet roll will be limited to two per customer under the changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also had to remove a food bank trolley from its Hove superstore after a customer reported it had been raided .
It comes as photographs showed supermarket shelves across the UK cleared of food and other essential goods such as toilet roll .
The demand for groceries has also moved online , with customers placed in hour-long queues on Tuesday just to access online supermarket Ocado 's website .
The company said it was experiencing an `` unusual '' and `` very high '' demand for its services , resulting in it having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Waitrose 's website was also temporarily down on Tuesday afternoon due to a `` high volume of visitors '' .
The Association of Convenience Stores ( ACS ) said its members , which include independent corner shops , Spar and Co-op , were managing to keep up with demand .
ACS 's head of communications Chris Noice said : `` People are now realising that the place where there is still stock is their local shop .
`` But with more people looking to self-isolate , and supermarkets reaching capacity online , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home delivery services . ''
He said while some stores already use delivery services such as Deliveroo , `` more and more '' are now considering using their own vehicles to supply customers .
Despite Tesco tightening its restrictions from five items to two on certain products , the company insisted that stock levels remained `` good '' .
Responding to a customer on Twitter who asked why one of its 24-hour stores was closing at 10pm , the company said a `` few '' of its supermarkets would be temporarily operating on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were stolen from its Hove store food bank trolley , the company asked customers to provide any further donations to checkout staff .
Supermarket giant Morrisons said it would be creating 3,500 new jobs as it expands its home delivery service to cope with soaring demand .
The chain said it would be recruiting around 2,500 pickers and drivers and about 1,000 people to work in distribution centres .
The move to boost home delivery will see the retailer make more slots available to customers , use another 100 stores for shop picking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those without access to online shopping and launch a new range of simple-to-order food parcels from March 23 .

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Tesco is set to reduce the hours for hundreds of stores as it copes with the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic.
Bosses at the UK's biggest supermarket have decided to close all 24-hour stores at 10pm, reopening at 6am on Wednesday morning.
They will continue to open between 6am and 10pm for the immediate future, it is understood.
Staff in stores were informed on Tuesday afternoon. A Tesco spokeswoman confirmed there will be no cut in pay.
She added: "We are changing these store hours to ensure we can serve customers better at this time. It gives our colleagues the time overnight to restock the store, replenish the shelves and support our online grocery service at a time when demand is high."
Details are being updated online with new store opening times, and it is believed some larger 24-hour stores that have pharmacies will remain open beyond 10pm.
It has also introduced tighter purchasing restrictions as panic buyers continue to strip supermarket shelves.
Items including anti-bacterial wipes, dried pasta and toilet roll will be limited to two per customer under the changes, it is understood.
The company also had to remove a food bank trolley from its Hove superstore after a customer reported it had been raided.
It comes as photographs showed supermarket shelves across the UK cleared of food and other essential goods such as toilet roll.
The demand for groceries has also moved online, with customers placed in hour-long queues on Tuesday just to access online supermarket Ocado's website.
The company said it was experiencing an "unusual" and "very high" demand for its services, resulting in it having to take its mobile app offline temporarily.
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Waitrose's website was also temporarily down on Tuesday afternoon due to a "high volume of visitors".
The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) said its members, which include independent corner shops, Spar and Co-op, were managing to keep up with demand.
ACS's head of communications Chris Noice said: "People are now realising that the place where there is still stock is their local shop.
"But with more people looking to self-isolate, and supermarkets reaching capacity online, I expect more convenience stores to offer home delivery services."
He said while some stores already use delivery services such as Deliveroo, "more and more" are now considering using their own vehicles to supply customers.
Despite Tesco tightening its restrictions from five items to two on certain products, the company insisted that stock levels remained "good".
Responding to a customer on Twitter who asked why one of its 24-hour stores was closing at 10pm, the company said a "few" of its supermarkets would be temporarily operating on reduced hours.
Following reports that items were stolen from its Hove store food bank trolley, the company asked customers to provide any further donations to checkout staff.
Supermarket giant Morrisons said it would be creating 3,500 new jobs as it expands its home delivery service to cope with soaring demand.
The chain said it would be recruiting around 2,500 pickers and drivers and about 1,000 people to work in distribution centres.
The move to boost home delivery will see the retailer make more slots available to customers, use another 100 stores for shop picking, set up a call centre for those without access to online shopping and launch a new range of simple-to-order food parcels from March 23.


birminghammail--2020-03-17--Government pledges £330 billion to tackle 'economic emergency'

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has promised government intervention 'on a scale unimaginable only a few weeks ago ' to help tackle the 'economic emergency ' caused by the coronavirus crisis .
Speaking in the Government briefing at 5pm on March 17 , he pledged to stand behind both large and small businesses to try to 'get businesses through this . '
He has put together a £330 billion package , which includes a three month mortgage holiday for those in need , cash grants and business rates holidays .
At the budget last week , the chancellor promised £1 billion to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hardship funds for local councils .
Today he has increased that further by announcing that mortgage lenders will provide three-month mortgage holidays for those that need them .
`` In the coming days I will go much further to support people 's financial security , '' he said , whilst stressing that this is public health emergency and that 'whatever resources the NHS needs they will get . '
He addressed concerns about the impact on the hospitality industry , particularly pubs , clubs , restaurants and theatres .
`` For those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covers pandemics - the government action is sufficient to allow them to make claims , '' he said .
For the smaller businesses in that sector who do n't have insurance he offered to provide cash grants of £25,000 per business `` to help bridge through this period '' .
He also said businesses in the sector would get a `` business rates holiday '' .
This comes after it has been announced that an additional 14 people have died after being diagnosed with coronavirus in England .
The Department of Health has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths is now up to 69 .
Earlier today , it was revealed that there had been a 26 per cent rise in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK , reaching 1,950 - up 407 in the past 24 hours .
As of 9am on Tuesday 50,442 people were tested for coronavirus in the UK and 48,492 tested negative .
All non-emergency surgeries across the Midlands , and the rest of England , have been put on hold for the next three months .
It is hoped the move will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus patients .
Now NHS England is looking at ways to protect the staff treating these patients - and the families of these staff members .

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Chancellor Rishi Sunak has promised government intervention 'on a scale unimaginable only a few weeks ago' to help tackle the 'economic emergency' caused by the coronavirus crisis.
Speaking in the Government briefing at 5pm on March 17, he pledged to stand behind both large and small businesses to try to 'get businesses through this.'
He has put together a £330 billion package, which includes a three month mortgage holiday for those in need, cash grants and business rates holidays.
(Image: PA)
At the budget last week, the chancellor promised £1 billion to support vulnerable people through the welfare system and hardship funds for local councils.
Today he has increased that further by announcing that mortgage lenders will provide three-month mortgage holidays for those that need them.
"In the coming days I will go much further to support people's financial security," he said, whilst stressing that this is public health emergency and that 'whatever resources the NHS needs they will get.'
Follow our live blog for updates
He addressed concerns about the impact on the hospitality industry, particularly pubs, clubs, restaurants and theatres.
"For those venues which do have a policy that covers pandemics - the government action is sufficient to allow them to make claims," he said.
For the smaller businesses in that sector who don't have insurance he offered to provide cash grants of £25,000 per business "to help bridge through this period".
He also said businesses in the sector would get a "business rates holiday".
This comes after it has been announced that an additional 14 people have died after being diagnosed with coronavirus in England.
The Department of Health has said that the total number of COVID-19 deaths is now up to 69.
Earlier today, it was revealed that there had been a 26 per cent rise in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK, reaching 1,950 - up 407 in the past 24 hours.
As of 9am on Tuesday 50,442 people were tested for coronavirus in the UK and 48,492 tested negative.
All non-emergency surgeries across the Midlands, and the rest of England, have been put on hold for the next three months.
It is hoped the move will free up 30,000 beds to help tackle coronavirus patients. Now NHS England is looking at ways to protect the staff treating these patients - and the families of these staff members.


birminghammail--2020-03-17--Liverpool's stance on Jack Grealish as pundit urges 'obvious' move

Talk of Jack Grealish moving to Liverpool in the summer has been ramped up after it was claimed he is an ‘ obvious ’ transfer target for Jurgen Klopp .
Grealish has shone on the Premier League stage for Aston Villa this season , impressing opposition managers and pundits alike with his dynamic and direct performances from central midfield and out wide .
He has directly contributed to more league goals than any other English top-flight midfielder despite Villa ’ s struggles at the bottom of the table and former B6 striker Kevin Phillips predicted interest from Anfield in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point where they can splash out on the world ’ s best , ” Phillips told Football Insider .
`` Those world ’ s best players want to come and play for Liverpool and Klopp .
He plays a certain style and he will not buy someone unless it plays his system .
`` The obvious one is Jack Grealish .
If Villa go down I am certain he will move on .
Could he play for Liverpool ?
He is the only one out of the bottom three or four teams that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They will certainly be targeting players from top abroad teams and around the world . ''
It is not the first time Villa 's skipper has been linked with Liverpool - there was speculation in the January window that the Reds were keen .
But our colleagues at the Liverpool Echo firmly reported then that Grealish is not on the club 's shortlist .
Manchester United are leading the chase to sign the 24-year-old , who has three years left to run on his contract at Villa Park .
Dean Smith was asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving in the summer prior to the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City .
Smith said : `` That ’ s a question we ’ ll have to answer in the summer .
Obviously , staying in this league is one of the biggest things to help us keep Jack Grealish .
`` He wants to play at the highest level and he wants to win trophies . ''

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Talk of Jack Grealish moving to Liverpool in the summer has been ramped up after it was claimed he is an ‘obvious’ transfer target for Jurgen Klopp.
Grealish has shone on the Premier League stage for Aston Villa this season, impressing opposition managers and pundits alike with his dynamic and direct performances from central midfield and out wide.
He has directly contributed to more league goals than any other English top-flight midfielder despite Villa’s struggles at the bottom of the table and former B6 striker Kevin Phillips predicted interest from Anfield in the summer.
"Liverpool are at a point where they can splash out on the world’s best,” Phillips told Football Insider.
"Those world’s best players want to come and play for Liverpool and Klopp. He plays a certain style and he will not buy someone unless it plays his system.
"The obvious one is Jack Grealish. If Villa go down I am certain he will move on. Could he play for Liverpool? He is the only one out of the bottom three or four teams that could fit in that team.
"They will certainly be targeting players from top abroad teams and around the world."
It is not the first time Villa's skipper has been linked with Liverpool - there was speculation in the January window that the Reds were keen.
But our colleagues at the Liverpool Echo firmly reported then that Grealish is not on the club's shortlist.
Manchester United are leading the chase to sign the 24-year-old, who has three years left to run on his contract at Villa Park.
Dean Smith was asked about the likelihood of his star performer leaving in the summer prior to the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City.
Smith said: "That’s a question we’ll have to answer in the summer. Obviously, staying in this league is one of the biggest things to help us keep Jack Grealish.
"He wants to play at the highest level and he wants to win trophies."


birminghammail--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Homeowners get a three-month mortgage holiday

Homeowners will be given a three-month mortgage holiday , as part of the Government 's plan to protect workers and businesses hit by the covid-19 Coronavirus .
It means they wo n't have to make a payment to their lender for three months .
Many struggling pubs , small shops , restaurants and similar businesses will be given a cash grant of £25,000 , to help them cope as customers stay at home .
And the Government is to guarantee loans totalling up to £330 billion for employers .
The measures were announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak , who the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The announcements were only the start he said .
He added : `` We have never in peacetime faced an ecnomic fight like this one .
`` I promised to do whatever it takes to support our economy through this crisis . ''
Mr Sunak said he would also talk to unions and employers to develop a new form of employment benefit .
This is likely to be a payment for people who have either lost their jobs or are unable to go to work because of coronavirus .
Mr Sunak also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they should be able to claim on insurance , after the government told customers to stay at home .
Meanwhile , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said measures announced on Monday , urging people to stay at home , might only be the start .
He said : `` We may well have to go further and faster in the comng days to protect lives and the NHS . ''
He added : `` We must suport millions of businesses and tens of millions of families and individuals through the coming months . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is to move to Windsor Castle on Thursday and is likely to stay there beyond the Easter period – A second patient in Scotland diagnosed with Covid-19 has died – The Archbishop of Canterbury has announced that public worship is “ suspended until further notice ” , but weddings and funerals can still go ahead – The Foreign Office is advising against all non-essential foreign travel for an initial period of 30 days – The number of people to test positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 9am on Tuesday is 1,950 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Department of Health said – Boris Johnson will chair a daily “ C-19 meeting ” with key ministers and officials tasked with tackling the coronavirus outbreak , Downing Street said – Fashion chain Laura Ashley filed for administration after rescue talks were halted by the coronavirus outbreak .
Major cinema chains , museums and galleries closed their doors .
– The Airport Operators Association warned UK airports may shut down “ within weeks without Government intervention ” .
The Prime Minister unveiled a new ministerial structure on Tuesday tasked with convening at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures set out at the Cobra emergency committee .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak , Health Secretary Matt Hancock , Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will each have key roles .

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Homeowners will be given a three-month mortgage holiday, as part of the Government's plan to protect workers and businesses hit by the covid-19 Coronavirus.
It means they won't have to make a payment to their lender for three months.
Many struggling pubs, small shops, restaurants and similar businesses will be given a cash grant of £25,000, to help them cope as customers stay at home.
And the Government is to guarantee loans totalling up to £330 billion for employers.
The measures were announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, who the UK faced "an economic emergency".
The announcements were only the start he said. He added: "We have never in peacetime faced an ecnomic fight like this one.
"I promised to do whatever it takes to support our economy through this crisis."
Mr Sunak said he would also talk to unions and employers to develop a new form of employment benefit. This is likely to be a payment for people who have either lost their jobs or are unable to go to work because of coronavirus.
Mr Sunak also reassured businesses in the hospitality sector that they should be able to claim on insurance, after the government told customers to stay at home.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said measures announced on Monday, urging people to stay at home, might only be the start.
He said: "We may well have to go further and faster in the comng days to protect lives and the NHS."
He added: "We must suport millions of businesses and tens of millions of families and individuals through the coming months."
It comes as:
– The Queen is to move to Windsor Castle on Thursday and is likely to stay there beyond the Easter period
– A second patient in Scotland diagnosed with Covid-19 has died
– The Archbishop of Canterbury has announced that public worship is “suspended until further notice”, but weddings and funerals can still go ahead
– The Foreign Office is advising against all non-essential foreign travel for an initial period of 30 days
– The number of people to test positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 9am on Tuesday is 1,950, up from 1,543 on Monday, the Department of Health said
– Boris Johnson will chair a daily “C-19 meeting” with key ministers and officials tasked with tackling the coronavirus outbreak, Downing Street said
– Routine Ofsted inspections have been cancelled
– Fashion chain Laura Ashley filed for administration after rescue talks were halted by the coronavirus outbreak. Major cinema chains, museums and galleries closed their doors.
– The Airport Operators Association warned UK airports may shut down “within weeks without Government intervention”.
The Prime Minister unveiled a new ministerial structure on Tuesday tasked with convening at daily “C-19 meetings” to refine measures set out at the Cobra emergency committee.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will each have key roles.


birminghammail--2020-03-17--What the postponement of Euro 2020 could mean for Blues

This summer ’ s European Championships have been postponed until the summer of 2021 .
With the coronavirus pandemic expected to worsen in the coming weeks and months , UEFA have been left with no choice but to postpone this summer ’ s showpiece event , which was planned to take place across 12 different countries to celebrate the competition ’ s 60th birthday .
Today , UEFA are holding a video conference call with all 55 of its member nations , with a meeting of their executive committee expected to follow afterwards .
With the competition having now been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not so much of a strain on the domestic 2019/20 campaign to be completed , a task that the vast majority of clubs in England want to fulfill .
But with the Euros now postponed , it will have an affect on certain areas of the game , especially in terms of the contracts of players and the upcoming summer transfer window .
Here , we have answered some of the key questions that you may be asking yourself following the cancellation of Euro 2020 .
When will the transfer window open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transfer window will officially open for business on June 10 , 2020 , though many deals will not be able to become official until July 1 .
The window will close , following a change to the rules just a few weeks ago , on Tuesday , September 1 at 5.00pm BST .
It would have closed on Monday , August 31 but that happens to be a Bank Holiday in the UK .
However , should this current season , which has been suspended until April 3 at the very earliest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in April , there is a very high chance that the 2019/20 season will continue beyond the end of May , which may mean that it could scupper the dates of the transfer window and the beginning of the 2020/21 domestic season .
Should , for example , the current season not be completed until mid-June , the 2020/21 Championship season may not kick-off until September , which would mean a later opening and closure of the transfer window .
Appearing on Sky Sports News on Monday evening , former EFL chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks will be required for the 2019/20 campaign to reach a natural conclusion .
He said : “ I think you need 11 weeks to finish our domestic season .
“ Next season starts when we determine , collectively , it is going to start .
It can not start in August if you are not playing football by the middle of April , if my 11-week projection is right ” What happens to players who are out-of-contract at the end of June ?
This time of the year is so often a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ either playing out of their skin to earn a new deal with their current club or are trying to impress for a potential new suitor .
This year , however , that situation could be blown out of the window because of the coronavirus outbreak .
As already touched upon above , the season is scheduled to get back underway on April 3 , even though the chances of that appear slim .
Should the current campaign continue beyond June 30 - the date that most professional footballers , who are out-of-contract , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it could cause major complications for clubs , as they could be left with a shortage of players and all kinds of legal issues .
Because the situation is completely unknown to everyone , it is hard to pinpoint exactly what could happen .
But in regards to this particular topic concerning player contracts , former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli has offered his insight into what may happen .
He told BBC Radio 5 Live : “ Legally , players ’ contracts end on June 30 .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June 30 , we will have to do something special contracts or shorten contracts of a month or two months , which has never been before .
“ There is no provision in the UEFA Players ’ Statute Regulation to do this .
That is another aspect.
” How does this affect Birmingham City ?
Birmingham City currently have several players out of contract .
Some are fringe players and would most likely be allowed to leave on June 30 - unless required .
The likes of Jonathan Grounds , David Stockdale and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
Meanwhile Craig Gardner is retiring to take up a coaching role with the club , Others , like Lee Camp and Jacques Maghoma - who could be fit again if and when the season resumes - might need to be retained on short term deals .
Blues also have to make a decision on Kerim Mrabti ’ s option ,

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Brian Dick, George Smith)

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This summer’s European Championships have been postponed until the summer of 2021.
With the coronavirus pandemic expected to worsen in the coming weeks and months, UEFA have been left with no choice but to postpone this summer’s showpiece event, which was planned to take place across 12 different countries to celebrate the competition’s 60th birthday.
Today, UEFA are holding a video conference call with all 55 of its member nations, with a meeting of their executive committee expected to follow afterwards.
With the competition having now been pushed back for a year, there is not so much of a strain on the domestic 2019/20 campaign to be completed, a task that the vast majority of clubs in England want to fulfill.
But with the Euros now postponed, it will have an affect on certain areas of the game, especially in terms of the contracts of players and the upcoming summer transfer window.
Here, we have answered some of the key questions that you may be asking yourself following the cancellation of Euro 2020.
When will the transfer window open?
At the time of writing, the transfer window will officially open for business on June 10, 2020, though many deals will not be able to become official until July 1.
The window will close, following a change to the rules just a few weeks ago, on Tuesday, September 1 at 5.00pm BST. It would have closed on Monday, August 31 but that happens to be a Bank Holiday in the UK.
However, should this current season, which has been suspended until April 3 at the very earliest, not resume on the first weekend in April, there is a very high chance that the 2019/20 season will continue beyond the end of May, which may mean that it could scupper the dates of the transfer window and the beginning of the 2020/21 domestic season.
Should, for example, the current season not be completed until mid-June, the 2020/21 Championship season may not kick-off until September, which would mean a later opening and closure of the transfer window.
Appearing on Sky Sports News on Monday evening, former EFL chief executive Shaun Harvey said that he believes 11 weeks will be required for the 2019/20 campaign to reach a natural conclusion.
He said: “I think you need 11 weeks to finish our domestic season.
“Next season starts when we determine, collectively, it is going to start. It cannot start in August if you are not playing football by the middle of April, if my 11-week projection is right”
What happens to players who are out-of-contract at the end of June?
This time of the year is so often a period when players that are out-of-contract are either playing out of their skin to earn a new deal with their current club or are trying to impress for a potential new suitor.
This year, however, that situation could be blown out of the window because of the coronavirus outbreak. As already touched upon above, the season is scheduled to get back underway on April 3, even though the chances of that appear slim.
Should the current campaign continue beyond June 30 - the date that most professional footballers, who are out-of-contract, will see their current deal expire - it could cause major complications for clubs, as they could be left with a shortage of players and all kinds of legal issues.
Because the situation is completely unknown to everyone, it is hard to pinpoint exactly what could happen.
But in regards to this particular topic concerning player contracts, former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli has offered his insight into what may happen.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Legally, players’ contracts end on June 30. So if the season has to go beyond June 30, we will have to do something special contracts or shorten contracts of a month or two months, which has never been before.
“There is no provision in the UEFA Players’ Statute Regulation to do this. That is another aspect.”
How does this affect Birmingham City?
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Birmingham City currently have several players out of contract. Some are fringe players and would most likely be allowed to leave on June 30 - unless required. The likes of Jonathan Grounds, David Stockdale and Cheick Keita have not featured for some time. Meanwhile Craig Gardner is retiring to take up a coaching role with the club,
Others, like Lee Camp and Jacques Maghoma - who could be fit again if and when the season resumes - might need to be retained on short term deals. Blues also have to make a decision on Kerim Mrabti’s option,


birminghammail--2020-03-17--NHS trust redeploying staff to help at Wolverhampton hospital

A hospital will temporarily close its minor injuries unit to free up staff to help seriously ill patients during the Covid-19 outbreak .
The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust has announced it will shut the unit at its Cannock Chase Hospital site from tomorrow ( Wednesday , March 18 ) .
The experienced emergency staff will be redeployed , caring for seriously-ill patients needing urgent care at Wolverhampton 's New Cross Hospital .
The trust said the decision was part of a planned strategy to cope with `` extra pressures and demands being faced as a result of Covid-19 '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : `` These extra staff will make a real difference .
“ We have a duty to provide safe and timely care to our patients - this decision will help us achieve that , ” For advice relating to minor injuries or ailments , the trust has reminded people that they should ring NHS 111 or visit a local pharmacy .
The news comes as the trust announced it was banning visitors from New Cross , Cannock Chase and West Park hospitals in a bid to stem the spread of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday , March 14 to `` protect staff , patients and visitors from becoming seriously ill '' .
This means patients are currently unable to see their family and friends face-to-face .
The only exceptions to the strict new rules are children ’ s services , maternity and neonates .

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A hospital will temporarily close its minor injuries unit to free up staff to help seriously ill patients during the Covid-19 outbreak.
The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust has announced it will shut the unit at its Cannock Chase Hospital site from tomorrow (Wednesday, March 18).
The experienced emergency staff will be redeployed, caring for seriously-ill patients needing urgent care at Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital.
The trust said the decision was part of a planned strategy to cope with "extra pressures and demands being faced as a result of Covid-19".
Gwen Nuttall, trust chief operating officer, said: "These extra staff will make a real difference.
“We have a duty to provide safe and timely care to our patients - this decision will help us achieve that,”
For advice relating to minor injuries or ailments, the trust has reminded people that they should ring NHS 111 or visit a local pharmacy.
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The news comes as the trust announced it was banning visitors from New Cross, Cannock Chase and West Park hospitals in a bid to stem the spread of coronavirus.
The restriction was put in place on Saturday, March 14 to "protect staff, patients and visitors from becoming seriously ill".
This means patients are currently unable to see their family and friends face-to-face.
The only exceptions to the strict new rules are children’s services, maternity and neonates.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Klich desperate for Leeds and West Brom to be treated fairly

Leeds United midfielder Mateusz Klich claims it ’ d be unfair if the Championship was to end now , as it stands , without any promotion or relegation after 37 games .
Leeds and West Brom have been the front-runners for more or less the entire season , and sit in the top two - seven and six points respectively clear of third placed Fulham - as the second tier in English football sits in limbo after the coronavirus pandemic that is sweeping the globe put a halt to all major sports around the continent .
The 24 clubs held @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they ’ ll be represented at EFL discussions to be held today ( Wednesday ) as the footballing authorities get their heads together and decide what the next plan of action should be in unprecedented times .
Klich has urged the EFL to find a way of completing the regular campaign , with Leeds - and Albion - so close to achieving their respective goals of promotion back to the top flight .
It ’ s certainly an opinion that many connected with the Baggies would agree with - having lost just five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bilic this term , they ’ ve been a serious candidate for the entire campaign and would feel confident of getting themselves over the line in the final handful of fixtures .
“ It would be strange if it turned out that we were playing for nothing .
We are seven points ahead of the play-off zone with nine matches to go , ” Klich said , via Sport Witness .
“ We are very close to the coveted promotion to the Premier League .
The cancellation of this season would be unfair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won ’ t happen .
“ In my opinion , it is more important to finish the league games .
I strongly hope that we will manage to finish the season .
Before the official decision to suspend the Championship , the entire team wanted to continue playing , but the federation decided otherwise .
”

Leeds United midfielder Mateusz Klich claims it’d be unfair if the Championship was to end now, as it stands, without any promotion or relegation after 37 games.
Leeds and West Brom have been the front-runners for more or less the entire season, and sit in the top two - seven and six points respectively clear of third placed Fulham - as the second tier in English football sits in limbo after the coronavirus pandemic that is sweeping the globe put a halt to all major sports around the continent.
The 24 clubs held a conference call on Tuesday, while they’ll be represented at EFL discussions to be held today (Wednesday) as the footballing authorities get their heads together and decide what the next plan of action should be in unprecedented times.
Klich has urged the EFL to find a way of completing the regular campaign, with Leeds - and Albion - so close to achieving their respective goals of promotion back to the top flight.
It’s certainly an opinion that many connected with the Baggies would agree with - having lost just five matches in 37 league games under Slaven Bilic this term, they’ve been a serious candidate for the entire campaign and would feel confident of getting themselves over the line in the final handful of fixtures.
“It would be strange if it turned out that we were playing for nothing. We are seven points ahead of the play-off zone with nine matches to go,” Klich said, via Sport Witness.
“We are very close to the coveted promotion to the Premier League. The cancellation of this season would be unfair in this case. I hope this won’t happen.
“In my opinion, it is more important to finish the league games. I strongly hope that we will manage to finish the season. Before the official decision to suspend the Championship, the entire team wanted to continue playing, but the federation decided otherwise.”


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: BBC stops filming on EastEnders, Casualty, Doctors, Holby City

The BBC has stopped production on all of its regular dramas amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Filming has been halted on shows including EastEnders , Casualty , Holby City and the Birmingham-made soap Doctors .
It follows the latest Government advice about the coronavirus outbreak , a spokesperson said .
A statement on Twitter from the official EastEnders account read : `` In light of the spread of Covid-19 , filming on EastEnders will be postponed until further notice .
`` We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 8pm and Tuesdays at 7.30pm .
The decision comes amid work being stopped on many other TV shows and films , including the forthcoming Lord of the Rings series and season two of Netflix ’ s hit fantasy drama The Witcher .
Mulan had been set to be one of Disney 's tent-pole films of 2020 and was supposed to arrive in UK cinemas on March 27 .
However , Disney has now delayed its release until an unspecified date later in the year , along with horror films The New Mutants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last X-Men movie made by Fox before it was acquired by Disney .
The news came hours after A Quiet Place II and Fast & Furious 9 were both postponed .
Daniel Craig ’ s final Bond outing No Time to Die has been pushed back to November .
It was originally supposed to be released internationally - including in the UK - on April 2 and in the USA on April 10 .
No Time to Die will instead be released in the UK on November 12 , 2020 with worldwide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ USA launch on November 25 , 2020 .

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The BBC has stopped production on all of its regular dramas amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Filming has been halted on shows including EastEnders, Casualty, Holby City and the Birmingham-made soap Doctors.
It follows the latest Government advice about the coronavirus outbreak, a spokesperson said.
A statement on Twitter from the official EastEnders account read: "In light of the spread of Covid-19, filming on EastEnders will be postponed until further notice.
"We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two."
Episodes will now air on Mondays at 8pm and Tuesdays at 7.30pm.
The decision comes amid work being stopped on many other TV shows and films, including the forthcoming Lord of the Rings series and season two of Netflix’s hit fantasy drama The Witcher.
Mulan had been set to be one of Disney's tent-pole films of 2020 and was supposed to arrive in UK cinemas on March 27.
However, Disney has now delayed its release until an unspecified date later in the year, along with horror films The New Mutants and Antlers.
The New Mutants was the last X-Men movie made by Fox before it was acquired by Disney.
The news came hours after A Quiet Place II and Fast & Furious 9 were both postponed.
Daniel Craig’s final Bond outing No Time to Die has been pushed back to November.
It was originally supposed to be released internationally - including in the UK - on April 2 and in the USA on April 10.
No Time to Die will instead be released in the UK on November 12, 2020 with worldwide release dates to follow, including the USA launch on November 25, 2020.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Police discover 'neighbour from hell' hiding inside a mattress

Police discovered a 'neighbour from hell ' hiding inside a mattress as they closed a property linked with crime and anti-social behaviour .
The man was arrested after officers smashed into the house in Castle Bromwich yesterday ( Tuesday ) .
They discovered a man lying in a mattress trying to hide away from cops .
West Midlands Police released pictures of the dirty mattress he had used as a hiding place .
The force said they had issued a closure order because of the property 's links to crime and anti-social behaviour .
West Midlands Police wrote on Facebook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our officers found a tenant hiding in this mattress .
“ We forced our way in to the home in Castle Bromwich to issue a closure order because of its links to crime and anti-social behaviour .
“ The tenant 's now been removed and the property secured .
If your life 's being blighted by anti-social behaviour , we can help.
” West Midlands Police say rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour can cause distress to others .
This behaviour can include drinking , urinating on the streets , intimidating passers-by , shouting , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offered advice to people who are affected by anti-social behaviour .

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Police discovered a 'neighbour from hell' hiding inside a mattress as they closed a property linked with crime and anti-social behaviour.
The man was arrested after officers smashed into the house in Castle Bromwich yesterday (Tuesday).
They discovered a man lying in a mattress trying to hide away from cops.
(Image: West Midlands Police)
West Midlands Police released pictures of the dirty mattress he had used as a hiding place.
The force said they had issued a closure order because of the property's links to crime and anti-social behaviour.
West Midlands Police wrote on Facebook: “Great work this morning as our officers found a tenant hiding in this mattress.
“We forced our way in to the home in Castle Bromwich to issue a closure order because of its links to crime and anti-social behaviour.
“The tenant's now been removed and the property secured. If your life's being blighted by anti-social behaviour, we can help.”
(Image: West Midlands Police)
West Midlands Police say rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour can cause distress to others.
This behaviour can include drinking, urinating on the streets, intimidating passers-by, shouting, swearing and hooliganism.
The force has offered advice to people who are affected by anti-social behaviour.
For advice click here


birminghammail--2020-03-18--The radical Premier League plan that could affect Wolves - report

Premier League club bosses are hatching a radical plan that would see the remaining 92 matches played behind closed doors at a neutral venue .
That ’ s according to a report in The Sun which claims every game would be played at a separate time and screened live on TV to supporters back home .
The proposal would reportedly see ‘ two or three ’ grounds host the games , with the Midlands a mooted destination .
The Sun suggests grounds could even stage more than one game per day with the possibility of clubs performing every three days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and finish the campaign .
Clubs will meet again today to discuss the next course of action and this revolutionary idea could well come up in conversation .
Any plans the Premier League announce will affect Wolverhampton Wanderers who are chasing a top four finish .
Nuno Espirito Santo ’ s side are sixth in the table with nine games to go and sit just five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea .
Wolves ’ Europa League season has also been suspended with UEFA announcing on Monday that it would be delaying the final until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games aren ’ t due to restart until April 4 , though that date could change if the coronavirus crisis escalates .

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Premier League club bosses are hatching a radical plan that would see the remaining 92 matches played behind closed doors at a neutral venue.
That’s according to a report in The Sun which claims every game would be played at a separate time and screened live on TV to supporters back home.
The proposal would reportedly see ‘two or three’ grounds host the games, with the Midlands a mooted destination.
(Image: Getty Images)
The Sun suggests grounds could even stage more than one game per day with the possibility of clubs performing every three days in order to cram the fixtures in and finish the campaign.
Clubs will meet again today to discuss the next course of action and this revolutionary idea could well come up in conversation.
Any plans the Premier League announce will affect Wolverhampton Wanderers who are chasing a top four finish.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are sixth in the table with nine games to go and sit just five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.
Wolves’ Europa League season has also been suspended with UEFA announcing on Monday that it would be delaying the final until the end of June.
Premier League games aren’t due to restart until April 4, though that date could change if the coronavirus crisis escalates.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Aston Villa Q&A LIVE - Coronavirus, transfers, what next?

Aston Villa players and staff have been given the rest of the week off to help combat the threat of coronavirus .
The club made the decision to shutdown its Bodymoor Heath training HQ on Tuesday in light of government advice .
The likes of Jack Grealish , Tyrone Mings and John McGinn have been given strict personal training programmes with head coach Dean Smith ordering his squad to self-isolate .
With no match action scheduled for another fortnight at the very earliest , now 's the perfect opportunity for supporters to ask any Aston Villa -related questions .
BirminghamLive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be on hand to talk to fans wanting to have their say on current matters , from coronavirus to issues surrounding the Premier League , contracts , transfers and so on .
You can get in touch by punching in your question or topic in our Google Doc , below , but remember to add your name , where you 're from and your email address .
Our dedicated Aston Villa Q & A live blog runs each and every week , it 's the perfect one-stop shop for supporters to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or questions answered .
The blog will update automatically , below .

Aston Villa players and staff have been given the rest of the week off to help combat the threat of coronavirus.
The club made the decision to shutdown its Bodymoor Heath training HQ on Tuesday in light of government advice.
The likes of Jack Grealish, Tyrone Mings and John McGinn have been given strict personal training programmes with head coach Dean Smith ordering his squad to self-isolate.
With no match action scheduled for another fortnight at the very earliest, now's the perfect opportunity for supporters to ask any Aston Villa -related questions.
BirminghamLive's club writer, Ashley Preece, will be on hand to talk to fans wanting to have their say on current matters, from coronavirus to issues surrounding the Premier League, contracts, transfers and so on.
You can get in touch by punching in your question or topic in our Google Doc, below, but remember to add your name, where you're from and your email address.
Our dedicated Aston Villa Q&A live blog runs each and every week, it's the perfect one-stop shop for supporters to get in touch to have their burning queries or questions answered.
The blog will update automatically, below.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--How Aston Villa's squad have reacted to Bodymoor Heath closure

Aston Villa players may be in self-isolation , but that hasn ’ t stopped them from being in direct competition with each other .
On Tuesday , Villa confirmed that their Bodymoor Heath training complex would be closed due to the coronavirus pandemic that is sweeping across the UK .
After training on Monday , Tuesday ’ s session was cancelled with the latest government advice advising against close , physical contact .
Dean Smith has given his Premier League squad individual training schedules , with the club set to review their procedures in the coming days .
With no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Villa players , like much of the rest of the country are trying to keep themselves occupied whilst they remain housebound .
Frederic Guilbert nominated his defensive counterparts , Bjorn Engels , Tyrone Mings and Kortney Hause to show some of their most thunderous tackles .
Mings replied with a crunching effort from his Ipswich days , whilst Hause highlighted a stunning tackle in the defeat vs Spurs .
Meanwhile , with much of the country scrambling for loo roll , the bored Villa players have been showing off their skills using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baston have all completed the 'stay at home challenge ' that is taking the football social media world by storm .
You can watch the challenges at the top of this page .

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Aston Villa players may be in self-isolation, but that hasn’t stopped them from being in direct competition with each other.
On Tuesday, Villa confirmed that their Bodymoor Heath training complex would be closed due to the coronavirus pandemic that is sweeping across the UK.
After training on Monday, Tuesday’s session was cancelled with the latest government advice advising against close, physical contact.
Dean Smith has given his Premier League squad individual training schedules, with the club set to review their procedures in the coming days.
With no games until April 3 at the earliest, Villa players, like much of the rest of the country are trying to keep themselves occupied whilst they remain housebound.
Frederic Guilbert nominated his defensive counterparts, Bjorn Engels, Tyrone Mings and Kortney Hause to show some of their most thunderous tackles.
Mings replied with a crunching effort from his Ipswich days, whilst Hause highlighted a stunning tackle in the defeat vs Spurs.
Meanwhile, with much of the country scrambling for loo roll, the bored Villa players have been showing off their skills using them.
Jota, Engels and Borja Baston have all completed the 'stay at home challenge' that is taking the football social media world by storm.
You can watch the challenges at the top of this page.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Government urged to do more to help renters and zero hours workers

The government is being urged to do more to help the rental market and those on zero-hour contracts .
Jobs have been put at risk after Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged people to stay at home and shun bars , clubs and other places where people gather to stop the spread of coronavirus .
The measures , revealed yesterday by Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Boris Johnson , include mortgage payment freezes for those in financial difficulty , £330bn in loans and £20bn in other support for businesses .
But many critics believe the £350billion bailout package has ignored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as those in insecure jobs .
On Tuesday , Mr Sunak said extra measures would be announced in the “ coming days ” to help protect people who rent - but he did not say what they were .
He also said urgent talks were under way with unions about a package of employment support .
The Chancellor told MPs : “ The biggest fixed costs that many families face will be their rent payment and it is right that we have regard to that .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a scale almost unimaginable a few weeks ago ” .
The Tory said : “ This is not a time for ideology and orthodoxy .
This is time to be bold .
For courage.
” But Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said : “ The government has announced a mortgage holiday for homeowners but it must suspend rents too .
“ Millions of people rent in the UK .
Suspend rents .
Ban evictions .
Now.
” Renters will be given help shortly , the Business Secretary has insisted .
But sources said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Alok Sharma told Sky News : “ There are millions of renters across the country and some of them will be facing this anxiety [ of arrears or eviction ] .
“ The Chancellor was very clear yesterday - he said the Housing Secretary will be coming forward very shortly to set out a statement on how we will make sure there ’ s protection for renters as well.
” A total of £350 billion in business handouts - or 15 percent of GDP - will be lent or give as aid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for supplies , overheads and staff wages .
Rates relief in the hospitality sector and funding grants for small businesses will also be available .
Mortgage lenders , meanwhile , have agreed to afford certain people a three-month ‘ holiday ’ depending on how badly they have been impacted by Covid-19 .

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The government is being urged to do more to help the rental market and those on zero-hour contracts.
Jobs have been put at risk after Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged people to stay at home and shun bars, clubs and other places where people gather to stop the spread of coronavirus.
The measures, revealed yesterday by Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Boris Johnson, include mortgage payment freezes for those in financial difficulty, £330bn in loans and £20bn in other support for businesses.
(Image: PA)
But many critics believe the £350billion bailout package has ignored renters, the self-employed and the redundant, as well as those in insecure jobs.
On Tuesday, Mr Sunak said extra measures would be announced in the “coming days” to help protect people who rent - but he did not say what they were. He also said urgent talks were under way with unions about a package of employment support.
The Chancellor told MPs: “The biggest fixed costs that many families face will be their rent payment and it is right that we have regard to that.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak described the interventions in the economy as “a scale almost unimaginable a few weeks ago”. The Tory said: “This is not a time for ideology and orthodoxy. This is time to be bold. For courage.”
But Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: “The government has announced a mortgage holiday for homeowners but it must suspend rents too.
“Millions of people rent in the UK. Suspend rents. Ban evictions. Now.”
Renters will be given help shortly, the Business Secretary has insisted. But sources said it was too early to say exactly when.
Alok Sharma told Sky News: “There are millions of renters across the country and some of them will be facing this anxiety [of arrears or eviction].
“The Chancellor was very clear yesterday - he said the Housing Secretary will be coming forward very shortly to set out a statement on how we will make sure there’s protection for renters as well.”
A total of £350 billion in business handouts - or 15 percent of GDP - will be lent or give as aid to help firms across the UK pay for supplies, overheads and staff wages. Rates relief in the hospitality sector and funding grants for small businesses will also be available.
Mortgage lenders, meanwhile, have agreed to afford certain people a three-month ‘holiday’ depending on how badly they have been impacted by Covid-19.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--'He suffered for seven years and nobody knew he was ill'

A Solihull couple who lost their son to suicide six years ago have reminded those grappling with mental health issues that `` there 's always someone to talk to '' .
Carol and Evan Grant , from Hampton-in-Arden , established a charity in memory of Cameron , who had taken his own life , aged just 21 , following a silent struggle with depression .
To mark his life they set up the Cameron Grant Memorial Trust to raise awareness of young suicide , encourage those suffering in silence to reach out and offer support for a range of mental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the launch of a new online campaign was highlighted at a Solihull Council scrutiny board last month .
Following the meeting , the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) met with Mr and Mrs Grant to talk about the organisation 's various projects and the support available to the public .
`` When [ Cameron ] died he was 21 and nobody knew he was ill , '' said Mr Grant .
`` He left us a letter in which he said he 'd had depression for seven years - he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the first day of Year 9 , so third year at senior school ... '' So he 'd had this seven year battle with depression which he chose to fight on his own .
`` And because he did this , internalised it all , what we do is anything we can to encourage people in mental distress to speak up and ask for help .
`` And in fact , more so than that , we want people to ask for help before they 're in mental distress if you like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of resilience and looking after their own mental health so they do n't reach a crisis point . ''
One of the main initiatives has involved the delivery of `` Cameron 's coasters '' to venues around the country - drinks mats which sign-post people to a range of organisations which offer support .
The trust has worked with universities , schools , police federations , the fire service and other employers and hopes to have produced its millionth coaster before the end of the year .
All have been printed and distributed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at some point in 2015 that the first coasters were created and it 's gathered momentum since then , '' said Mr Grant .
With the items now stocked at places as far afield as Shetland , Canterbury , Ulster and Aberystwyth , anyone who would like to place an order is urged to get in touch .
`` Sometimes people can be a bit embarrassed to ask , I do n't know why , '' said Mrs Grant .
`` They 're also very embarrassed when they do ring up and they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the other end of the line , because they 're expecting a charity office . ''
The charity is one of several which has backed a new online video campaign , spurred by the fact that suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 .
It seeks to redefine what it means to be `` the strong , silent type '' .
`` It 's actually quite clever , '' said Mr Grant , who is among those to feature in the clip .
`` The 'strong ' is being strong enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that you are having a text conversation . ''
Cllr Karen Grinsell , Solihull Council 's cabinet member for adult social care and health , had highlighted the campaign at the recent scrutiny board , where a suicide prevention report was discussed .
`` It might be worth just looking at the video and sharing that , '' she said .
Several members acknowledged it could be harder to reach men and encourage them to seek support .
Mr and Mrs Grant said that awareness of conditions like depression had been bolstered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebrities and public figures in recent years , but there was still a lot to work to do .
The latest figures , from 2018 , show that there were 6,507 suicides registered in the UK over the course of the 12 months .
`` They do n't have to be big government initiatives with lots of money , '' said Mr Grant , on efforts to extend support .
He also emphasised that `` taking the time to talk '' could be hugely important .
`` Suicide 's a complicated issue , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is n't a single cause .
`` I always start from the point of view it 's a problem for society and everyone 's got a role to play in understanding mental health and how they can look out for their friends and family .
`` That 's not the same as saying I think everyone 's responsible for protecting the lives of all , I do n't , I just think some wider sense of humanity and community is an important part of mental health for everyone and that inevitably means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I think everybody goes about their busy lives at the moment and also are maybe a bit reluctant about talking to people they do n't know , but actually we should all make the effort to ask people how they are and if anything 's wrong .
`` It 's just taking notice of people around you , even if you do n't know them . ''
The charity also organises a number of fund raising events - including an annual `` night walk '' between Hampton and Barston , held @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , October 10 , which by coincidence is World Mental Health Day .
`` We 've done that now for five years - it 's another thing we started thinking we 'd only do it once and it 's become a village institution , '' said Mr Grant .
`` But the participation is now wider , so we have groups from Tudor Grange and Alderbrook School come over and we had 305 people do it last October . ''
And from September 17-21 , there 's also a coast to coast cycle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Asked what their advice would be to anyone who was struggling with their mental health or had experienced suicidal thoughts , the couple reiterated how important it was to speak to someone .
`` If it 's got to the point where you think there 's nothing left to live for , you 've got nothing to lose by talking to someone , '' said Mr Grant .
`` It can be a friend , it can be the family , a priest , a counsellor - just talk . ''
Anyone who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or find out more about the charity can visit www.camgrant.org.uk/ .
For free , 24/7 crisis support text CAM to 85258

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A Solihull couple who lost their son to suicide six years ago have reminded those grappling with mental health issues that "there's always someone to talk to".
Carol and Evan Grant, from Hampton-in-Arden, established a charity in memory of Cameron, who had taken his own life, aged just 21, following a silent struggle with depression.
To mark his life they set up the Cameron Grant Memorial Trust to raise awareness of young suicide, encourage those suffering in silence to reach out and offer support for a range of mental health conditions.
(Image: Photo supplied by Evan and Carol Grant.)
The charity's work and the launch of a new online campaign was highlighted at a Solihull Council scrutiny board last month.
Following the meeting, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) met with Mr and Mrs Grant to talk about the organisation's various projects and the support available to the public.
"When [Cameron] died he was 21 and nobody knew he was ill," said Mr Grant.
"He left us a letter in which he said he'd had depression for seven years - he actually dated the start of his troubles to the first day of Year 9, so third year at senior school...
"So he'd had this seven year battle with depression which he chose to fight on his own.
"And because he did this, internalised it all, what we do is anything we can to encourage people in mental distress to speak up and ask for help.
"And in fact, more so than that, we want people to ask for help before they're in mental distress if you like, so that people learn the skills of resilience and looking after their own mental health so they don't reach a crisis point."
One of the main initiatives has involved the delivery of "Cameron's coasters" to venues around the country - drinks mats which sign-post people to a range of organisations which offer support.
(Image: David Irwin)
The trust has worked with universities, schools, police federations, the fire service and other employers and hopes to have produced its millionth coaster before the end of the year. All have been printed and distributed free of charge.
"It was at some point in 2015 that the first coasters were created and it's gathered momentum since then," said Mr Grant.
With the items now stocked at places as far afield as Shetland, Canterbury, Ulster and Aberystwyth, anyone who would like to place an order is urged to get in touch.
"Sometimes people can be a bit embarrassed to ask, I don't know why," said Mrs Grant.
"They're also very embarrassed when they do ring up and they find it's Evan or I at the other end of the line, because they're expecting a charity office."
The charity is one of several which has backed a new online video campaign, spurred by the fact that suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50. It seeks to redefine what it means to be "the strong, silent type".
"It's actually quite clever," said Mr Grant, who is among those to feature in the clip. "The 'strong' is being strong enough to get in touch, the silent is that you are having a text conversation."
Cllr Karen Grinsell, Solihull Council's cabinet member for adult social care and health, had highlighted the campaign at the recent scrutiny board, where a suicide prevention report was discussed.
"It might be worth just looking at the video and sharing that," she said.
Where to get help if you're feeling suicidal Samaritans (116 123) samaritans.org operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org , write to Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK, PO Box 9090, STIRLING, FK8 2SA and visit www.samaritans.org/branches to find your nearest branch. CALM (0800 58 58 58) thecalmzone.net has a helpline is for men who are down or have hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support. They're open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year. Childline (0800 1111 ) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.
PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal. Other depression charities
Depression Alliance is a charity for people with depression. It doesn’t have a helpline, but offers a wide range of useful resources and links to other relevant information depressionalliance.org
Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts. Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying studentsagainstdepression.org
The Sanctuary (0300 003 7029 ) helps people who are struggling to cope - experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks or in crisis. You can call them between 8pm and 6am every night.There are other depression charities.
Several members acknowledged it could be harder to reach men and encourage them to seek support.
Mr and Mrs Grant said that awareness of conditions like depression had been bolstered by the comments from a number of celebrities and public figures in recent years, but there was still a lot to work to do.
The latest figures, from 2018, show that there were 6,507 suicides registered in the UK over the course of the 12 months.
"They don't have to be big government initiatives with lots of money," said Mr Grant, on efforts to extend support.
He also emphasised that "taking the time to talk" could be hugely important.
(Image: Solihull Council.)
"Suicide's a complicated issue, there isn't a single answer, there isn't a single cause.
"I always start from the point of view it's a problem for society and everyone's got a role to play in understanding mental health and how they can look out for their friends and family.
"That's not the same as saying I think everyone's responsible for protecting the lives of all, I don't, I just think some wider sense of humanity and community is an important part of mental health for everyone and that inevitably means working together."
Mrs Grant said: "I think everybody goes about their busy lives at the moment and also are maybe a bit reluctant about talking to people they don't know, but actually we should all make the effort to ask people how they are and if anything's wrong.
"It's just taking notice of people around you, even if you don't know them."
(Image: Evan and Carol Grant)
The charity also organises a number of fund raising events - including an annual "night walk" between Hampton and Barston, held around the time of Cameron's birthday, October 10, which by coincidence is World Mental Health Day.
"We've done that now for five years - it's another thing we started thinking we'd only do it once and it's become a village institution," said Mr Grant.
"But the participation is now wider, so we have groups from Tudor Grange and Alderbrook School come over and we had 305 people do it last October."
And from September 17-21, there's also a coast to coast cycle ride planned from Morecambe to Bridlington.
Asked what their advice would be to anyone who was struggling with their mental health or had experienced suicidal thoughts, the couple reiterated how important it was to speak to someone.
"If it's got to the point where you think there's nothing left to live for, you've got nothing to lose by talking to someone," said Mr Grant.
"It can be a friend, it can be the family, a priest, a counsellor - just talk."
Anyone who would like to order Cameron's coasters or find out more about the charity can visit www.camgrant.org.uk/. For free, 24/7 crisis support text CAM to 85258
Visit the Cameron Grant Memorial Trust YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJXAi_EzY-o


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Shopping restrictions imposed in new crackdown on panic buying

Supermarkets across the UK have announced further measures to clamp down on panic buying during the coronavirus pandemic .
As stockpiling by members of the public shows no sign of easing off , customers at Sainsbury 's will be restricted to a maximum of three of most products , and just two on the most sought-after goods including toilet roll , soap and UHT milk .
Meat , fish and pizza counters and cafes will be closed from Thursday to free up lorry and warehouse capacity , as well as shelf-stacking time , so that essential items can be replenished @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will only be open to customers over 70 and those with a disability for the first hour of trading on Thursday - but supermarkets will stay open an hour longer so other shoppers do n't miss out .
Store bosses will also be boosting the 'click and collect ' service , where customers pick up home shopping orders at their nearest store .
Sainsbury 's chief executive Mike Coupe said : `` We have enough food coming into the system , but are limiting sales so that it stays on shelves for longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numbers of customers . ''
At Tesco , 24-hour opening is being stopped to that shelves can be restocked .
Stores will close between 10pm and 6am .
A spokesperson said : `` It gives our colleagues the time overnight to restock the store , replenish the shelves and support our online grocery service at a time when demand is high . ''
Supermarkets have seen a huge rise in demand for deliveries of home shopping order .
At Tesco , no home delivery slots are available for almost three weeks , until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday to say that it too was `` reluctantly '' introducing limits on some of its most in-demand online items .
The supermarket also said it was drafting in 1200 staff `` and growing '' from sister retailer John Lewis to help it cope with demand .
Business secretary Alok Sharma said supermarkets were taking `` sensible measures . ''
He told Sky News he understood the `` rationale '' of people wanting to stock up and added : `` As shelves get restocked I 'm quite sure people will take the logical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normally shop when they go to do their weekly or daily shop . ''
Morrisons had said earlier it was hiring 3,500 more workers as it expands online delivery services to help it meet demand .
Coronavirus stockpiling saw Morrisons sales rise five per cent year-on-year since the start of February .

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Supermarkets across the UK have announced further measures to clamp down on panic buying during the coronavirus pandemic.
As stockpiling by members of the public shows no sign of easing off, customers at Sainsbury's will be restricted to a maximum of three of most products, and just two on the most sought-after goods including toilet roll, soap and UHT milk.
Meat, fish and pizza counters and cafes will be closed from Thursday to free up lorry and warehouse capacity, as well as shelf-stacking time, so that essential items can be replenished.
Sainsbury's also said its stores will only be open to customers over 70 and those with a disability for the first hour of trading on Thursday.
Store bosses will also be boosting the 'click and collect' service, where customers pick up home shopping orders at their nearest store.
Sainsbury's chief executive Mike Coupe said: "We have enough food coming into the system, but are limiting sales so that it stays on shelves for longer and can be bought by a larger numbers of customers."
At Tesco, 24-hour opening is being stopped to that shelves can be restocked. Stores will close between 10pm and 6am.
A spokesperson said: "It gives our colleagues the time overnight to restock the store, replenish the shelves and support our online grocery service at a time when demand is high."
Supermarkets have seen a huge rise in demand for deliveries of home shopping order. At Tesco, no home delivery slots are available for almost three weeks, until April 5.
Waitrose emailed customers on Wednesday to say that it too was "reluctantly" introducing limits on some of its most in-demand online items.
The supermarket also said it was drafting in 1200 staff "and growing" from sister retailer John Lewis to help it cope with demand.
Business secretary Alok Sharma said supermarkets were taking "sensible measures."
He told Sky News he understood the "rationale" of people wanting to stock up and added: "As shelves get restocked I'm quite sure people will take the logical steps and actually shop as they would normally shop when they go to do their weekly or daily shop."
Morrisons had said earlier it was hiring 3,500 more workers as it expands online delivery services to help it meet demand.
Coronavirus stockpiling saw Morrisons sales rise five per cent year-on-year since the start of February.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--Black Country Living Museum shut for six weeks amid coronavirus fears

The Black Country Living Museum has announced it will be closed to the public for six weeks .
The tourist attraction is now shut until May 1 as the coronavirus pandemic continues to grow .
The closure comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson advised members of the public to avoid pubs , theatres and social gatherings .
Management announced the 'very difficult decision ' on Facebook .
You can keep up to date with closures around the Black Country on our blog .
A spokesman for Black Country Museum said : `` In response to the recent Government guidelines , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and visitors as paramount , we have made the very difficult decision to close the Museum to the public ( including schools ) from Wednesday , March 18 for an initial period of six weeks until May 1 .
`` We ’ ll keep this under continuous review .
Thank you for your support and understanding . ''
In response to the announcement many customers requested the museum create a home delivery service for its famous fish and chips .
On Facebook , one person said : `` Totally expected , staff and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can you do home delivery of the chips though . ''
Another added : `` Just make sure you get the chippy added to the just eat app . ''
A third commented : `` What a fantastic museum it is too .
Visited last year in August with our England family and loved it .
Still say best fish and chips ever .
Hopefully you will be able to open again in the not too distant future . ''

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The Black Country Living Museum has announced it will be closed to the public for six weeks.
The tourist attraction is now shut until May 1 as the coronavirus pandemic continues to grow.
The closure comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson advised members of the public to avoid pubs, theatres and social gatherings.
Management announced the 'very difficult decision' on Facebook.
(Image: Patrick Mulvaney)
You can keep up to date with closures around the Black Country on our blog.
A spokesman for Black Country Museum said: "In response to the recent Government guidelines, and with the welfare of our staff and visitors as paramount, we have made the very difficult decision to close the Museum to the public (including schools) from Wednesday, March 18 for an initial period of six weeks until May 1.
"We’ll keep this under continuous review. Thank you for your support and understanding."
In response to the announcement many customers requested the museum create a home delivery service for its famous fish and chips.
On Facebook, one person said: "Totally expected, staff and visitors must be kept safe. But can you do home delivery of the chips though."
Another added: "Just make sure you get the chippy added to the just eat app."
A third commented: "What a fantastic museum it is too. Visited last year in August with our England family and loved it . Still say best fish and chips ever. Hopefully you will be able to open again in the not too distant future."


birminghammail--2020-03-18--What coronavirus? Revellers on Broad Street for St Patrick's Day

The city was largely deserted and streets were empty yesterday - but nothing was going to dampen the spirits of these St Patrick ’ s Day revellers .
Wearing novelty green hats and draped in the Irish flag , the small group took to Broad Street on Tuesday , where instead of facing rammed bars and long queues , they had the pick of places to celebrate .
Other images show traditional Irish bars unusually quiet , as most people opted to stay at home .
On Monday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the public against gathering in pubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of coronavirus .
He stopped short of an outright ban which prevents businesses against claiming against their losses on their insurance .
The traditional Birmingham ’ s St Patrick ’ s Day parade and festival in Digbeth had been postponed amid the coronavirus outbreak .
The team behind the major celebration of Irish culture and heritage said they promise to deliver “ a world-class festival experience that Birmingham and the UK expect and deserve ” later in the year .
Festival chair Peter Connolly said : “ We are devastated to share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are committed to providing our city with a belated St Patrick ’ s celebration that we can all be proud of later in the year .
“ We are now working through the ramifications of this unprecedented situation and look forward to coming back with announcements very soon.
” Major parades were cancelled across the globe - including New York where 2million were expected - as coronavirus continues to spread .

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The city was largely deserted and streets were empty yesterday - but nothing was going to dampen the spirits of these St Patrick’s Day revellers.
Wearing novelty green hats and draped in the Irish flag, the small group took to Broad Street on Tuesday, where instead of facing rammed bars and long queues, they had the pick of places to celebrate.
Other images show traditional Irish bars unusually quiet, as most people opted to stay at home.
On Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the public against gathering in pubs, clubs and restaurants to stem the spread of coronavirus.
He stopped short of an outright ban which prevents businesses against claiming against their losses on their insurance.
The traditional Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Day parade and festival in Digbeth had been postponed amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The team behind the major celebration of Irish culture and heritage said they promise to deliver “a world-class festival experience that Birmingham and the UK expect and deserve” later in the year.
(Image: SWNS)
Festival chair Peter Connolly said: “We are devastated to share this news with you, however, we are committed to providing our city with a belated St Patrick’s celebration that we can all be proud of later in the year.
“We are now working through the ramifications of this unprecedented situation and look forward to coming back with announcements very soon.”
Major parades were cancelled across the globe - including New York where 2million were expected - as coronavirus continues to spread.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--10 ways to help protect yourself and avoid catching coronavirus

The spread of coronavirus pandemic has seen strict new measures introduced to protect the public from the potentially deadly virus .
On Monday Boris Johnson told people to minimise all social contact including staying out of pubs and restaurants and working from home where possible .
The advice was given to try and stop the spread of the deadly virus and to try and protect NHS workers and hospitals as much as possible as new cases emerge daily , the Liverpool Echo reports .
Despite the warning people will still have to venture outdoors during the pandemic to get essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broke out in Wuhan in China , is quite easily spread so here are 10 steps to help keep yourself safe , as advised by .
People are being advised to use other body parts to press buttons at road crossings or in lifts such as elbows .
Use your elbows , your hips or other body parts to open doors instead , or use your clothes to cover your hands .
It 's easier to pop your clothes in the washing basket later rather than expose your skin now , especially as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for hours .
Where possible , take advantage of automatic buttons to avoid putting yourself in contact with potentially contaminated surfaces .
3 .
Be careful where you put your phone Try to be more careful where you put your phone when not in use .
The less you expose your phone to shared surfaces , the less you ’ ll need to worry about it possibly needing disinfecting .
When you 're anywhere with a shared surface , lay down a paper towel and set your phone on that .
This will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as frequently .
Instead of being passed a bag in a shop of supermarket , take your own to bag up your items .
This will reduce any potential cross-contamination - and put your fellow shoppers ’ minds at rest .
It is the British way to shake hands when we meet someone but this custom is strictly off limits for the time being .
Many people don ’ t display symptoms of coronavirus initially so to maximise your chances of yourself and your loved ones staying safe , try touching elbows or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fresh produce aisle or breads and rolls in the supermarkets , don ’ t use your bare hands in order to touch them or sort through them .
Use the handy bags provided , you can put your hand inside one to use it like a glove to help pick things up .
7 .
Continue washing your hands throughout the day Make sure you wash your hands when you get home and any time you ’ re near a facility with hand washing supplies .
Wash your hands for at least 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially helpful while you ’ re out and about .
You may also encounter someone who needs them and sharing them keeps you safe , as well as those around you .
Use tissues whenever you need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spreading of germs .
Avoid handling cash to minimise your chances of encountering germs .
Pay with contactless or your debit card wherever possible - or use apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay on your phone .
Many healthcare professionals and scientists have suggested coronavirus could survive on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ room temperature .
After that , it 's thought the virus dies and is no longer able to infect you .
The virus can live on items like your jacket or work surfaces , so it ’ s important to keep cleaning such items with antibacterial products .
If you own a dry-clean only item , or items you ’ re not sure how to clean , simply set it aside for nine days to protect yourself .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jess Flaherty, Andy Richardson)

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The spread of coronavirus pandemic has seen strict new measures introduced to protect the public from the potentially deadly virus.
On Monday Boris Johnson told people to minimise all social contact including staying out of pubs and restaurants and working from home where possible.
The advice was given to try and stop the spread of the deadly virus and to try and protect NHS workers and hospitals as much as possible as new cases emerge daily, the Liverpool Echo reports.
Despite the warning people will still have to venture outdoors during the pandemic to get essential supplies.
The virus, which originally broke out in Wuhan in China, is quite easily spread so here are 10 steps to help keep yourself safe, as advised by CNet .
1. Avoid touching things with your fingertips
People are being advised to use other body parts to press buttons at road crossings or in lifts such as elbows.
Use your elbows, your hips or other body parts to open doors instead, or use your clothes to cover your hands.
It's easier to pop your clothes in the washing basket later rather than expose your skin now, especially as germs from coronavirus can live on surfaces for hours.
2. Look for automatic buttons
Where possible, take advantage of automatic buttons to avoid putting yourself in contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.
3. Be careful where you put your phone
Try to be more careful where you put your phone when not in use. The less you expose your phone to shared surfaces, the less you’ll need to worry about it possibly needing disinfecting.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
When you're anywhere with a shared surface, lay down a paper towel and set your phone on that.
This will save you having to disinfect your phone as frequently.
4. Bring your own shopping bags
Instead of being passed a bag in a shop of supermarket, take your own to bag up your items.
This will reduce any potential cross-contamination - and put your fellow shoppers’ minds at rest.
(Image: Daily Post Wales)
5. Don’t shake hands
It is the British way to shake hands when we meet someone but this custom is strictly off limits for the time being.
Many people don’t display symptoms of coronavirus initially so to maximise your chances of yourself and your loved ones staying safe, try touching elbows or toe tapping instead.
6. Don’t touch food with bare hands
When perusing the fresh produce aisle or breads and rolls in the supermarkets, don’t use your bare hands in order to touch them or sort through them.
Use the handy bags provided, you can put your hand inside one to use it like a glove to help pick things up.
7. Continue washing your hands throughout the day
Make sure you wash your hands when you get home and any time you’re near a facility with hand washing supplies. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
(Image: Getty Images)
8. Carry hand sanitiser and wipes
These little items will be especially helpful while you’re out and about.
You may also encounter someone who needs them and sharing them keeps you safe, as well as those around you.
Use tissues whenever you need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spreading of germs.
9. Pay with card, not cash
Avoid handling cash to minimise your chances of encountering germs.
Pay with contactless or your debit card wherever possible - or use apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay on your phone.
10. Avoid ‘questionable’ items for nine days
Many healthcare professionals and scientists have suggested coronavirus could survive on surfaces for up to nine days at room temperature.
After that, it's thought the virus dies and is no longer able to infect you.
The virus can live on items like your jacket or work surfaces, so it’s important to keep cleaning such items with antibacterial products.
If you own a dry-clean only item, or items you’re not sure how to clean, simply set it aside for nine days to protect yourself.


birminghammail--2020-03-18--‘Frankly laughable’ - The West Brom claim that makes no sense

There have been suggestions this week that Slaven Bilic might be being targeted by Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce as they hunt a new manager .
I must admit that I wasn ’ t surprised by the link when I saw it .
That ’ s not down to anything other than the results and presence that Bilic has brought to the table at West Bromwich Albion this season .
Similar thoughts/concerns/worries crossed my mind when Everton and West Ham - both former clubs of Bilic ’ s - sacked their managers earlier in the campaign - again , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s overseen at The Hawthorns .
The idea that that prospect might happen right now , in this current climate , though , is quite frankly laughable .
Even if we weren ’ t living in the middle of a coronavirus pandemic for the next number of weeks or , you dread to think , months , Bilic would have serious business to tend to exactly where he is .
Reports coming out of Turkey claim that Fenerbahce , a sizeable club in their own right , favoured Bilic as the ideal candidate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ali Koc is looking for a new boss after parting company with Ersun Yanal at the beginning of the month , and identified the Baggies ’ favourite Croat .
The same report , though , rather bizarrely then points to the fact that a move is very unlikely anyway .
For Bilic wasn ’ t interested in such a proposition , and such a stance would tell you all you need to know about how the man himself views his position at The Hawthorns , where he commands the respect of his players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in quite cosily to life in the West Midlands .
Bilic might ’ ve managed in Turkey previously but talk of a return isn ’ t welcome .
Football currently sits in limbo like nothing any of us have ever experienced , but despite that Bilic , being the man and coach that he is , will be raring to go , his eyes fixed on the prize , once the coronavirus cloud eventually lifts .
He ’ s adored at The Hawthorns and it ’ d be quite a sight for him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the top flight .

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There have been suggestions this week that Slaven Bilic might be being targeted by Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce as they hunt a new manager.
I must admit that I wasn’t surprised by the link when I saw it. That’s not down to anything other than the results and presence that Bilic has brought to the table at West Bromwich Albion this season.
Similar thoughts/concerns/worries crossed my mind when Everton and West Ham - both former clubs of Bilic’s - sacked their managers earlier in the campaign - again, that speaks volumes of the rise he’s overseen at The Hawthorns.
The idea that that prospect might happen right now, in this current climate, though, is quite frankly laughable.
Even if we weren’t living in the middle of a coronavirus pandemic for the next number of weeks or, you dread to think, months, Bilic would have serious business to tend to exactly where he is.
Reports coming out of Turkey claim that Fenerbahce, a sizeable club in their own right, favoured Bilic as the ideal candidate to fill their managerial vacancy.
President Ali Koc is looking for a new boss after parting company with Ersun Yanal at the beginning of the month, and identified the Baggies’ favourite Croat.
The same report, though, rather bizarrely then points to the fact that a move is very unlikely anyway.
For Bilic wasn’t interested in such a proposition, and such a stance would tell you all you need to know about how the man himself views his position at The Hawthorns, where he commands the respect of his players, admiration from supporters and has settled in quite cosily to life in the West Midlands.
Bilic might’ve managed in Turkey previously but talk of a return isn’t welcome.
Football currently sits in limbo like nothing any of us have ever experienced, but despite that Bilic, being the man and coach that he is, will be raring to go, his eyes fixed on the prize, once the coronavirus cloud eventually lifts.
He’s adored at The Hawthorns and it’d be quite a sight for him to be marshalling the B71 touchline back in the top flight.