birminghammail--2020-03-13--Deliveroo and Domino's launch 'contact-free' deliveries amid coronavirus fears

Fast food firms are set to launch `` contact-free delivery '' in response to the coronavirus crisis in a move to give `` peace of mind '' to customers wishing to limit physical contact following the rapid spread of Covid-19 .
Domino 's and Deliveroo have announced plans to introduce no-contact drop-off from next week .
Domino 's said its drivers will call the customer when they arrive to arrange a drop off point , then stay at least two metres away while the order is checked and confirmed to be correct .
Deliveries must be paid for in advance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's CEO David Wild said in a statement that the company hoped to safeguard both its customers and drivers .
He added : `` For customers who want to feel even safer when ordering , from next week we will launch Contact Free Delivery .
This service comes at no additional charge and is in response to some customers wishing to limit physical contact during the current COVID-19 outbreak .
`` By introducing Contact Free Delivery , we believe that we will give our customers peace of mind when ordering a Domino 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Deliveroo added : `` We 're also launching a no-contact drop-off service which will mean you can request in the app that your rider leaves the food on your doorstep - removing the need for direct contact for both parties . ''
The takeaway delivery website has also launched a fund to support riders diagnosed with coronavirus who are unable to work .
It comes as unions urged the government to provide sick pay for `` gig economy '' workers .

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Fast food firms are set to launch "contact-free delivery" in response to the coronavirus crisis in a move to give "peace of mind" to customers wishing to limit physical contact following the rapid spread of Covid-19.
Domino's and Deliveroo have announced plans to introduce no-contact drop-off from next week.
Domino's said its drivers will call the customer when they arrive to arrange a drop off point, then stay at least two metres away while the order is checked and confirmed to be correct.
Deliveries must be paid for in advance online or over the phone.
Domino's CEO David Wild said in a statement that the company hoped to safeguard both its customers and drivers.
(Image: PA)
He added: "For customers who want to feel even safer when ordering, from next week we will launch Contact Free Delivery. This service comes at no additional charge and is in response to some customers wishing to limit physical contact during the current COVID-19 outbreak.
"By introducing Contact Free Delivery, we believe that we will give our customers peace of mind when ordering a Domino's, while also protecting our delivery drivers."
Coronvirus blog
Deliveroo added: "We're also launching a no-contact drop-off service which will mean you can request in the app that your rider leaves the food on your doorstep - removing the need for direct contact for both parties."
The takeaway delivery website has also launched a fund to support riders diagnosed with coronavirus who are unable to work.
It comes as unions urged the government to provide sick pay for "gig economy" workers.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Dominos pizza launch 'no contact delivery zone' in Birmingham amid coronavirus crisis

Fast food firms are set to launch “ contact-free delivery ” in response to the coronavirus crisis .
The free service aims to give “ peace of mind ” to customers wishing to limit physical contact following the rapid spread of Covid-19 .
Domino ’ s and Deliveroo have announced plans to introduce no-contact drop-off from next week .
Domino ’ s said its drivers will call the customer when they arrive to arrange a drop off point , then stay at least two metres away while the order is checked and confirmed to be correct .
Deliveries must be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the phone .
Domino ’ s CEO David Wild said in a statement that the company hoped to safeguard both its customers and drivers .
He added : “ For customers who want to feel even safer when ordering , from next week we will launch Contact Free Delivery .
This service comes at no additional charge and is in response to some customers wishing to limit physical contact during the current COVID-19 outbreak .
“ By introducing Contact Free Delivery , we believe that we will give our customers peace of mind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while also protecting our delivery drivers.
” Deliveroo added : “ We ’ re also launching a no-contact drop-off service which will mean you can request in the app that your rider leaves the food on your doorstep – removing the need for direct contact for both parties.
” The takeaway delivery website has also launched a fund to support riders diagnosed with coronavirus who are unable to work .
It comes as unions urged the government to provide sick pay for “ gig economy ” workers .

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Fast food firms are set to launch “contact-free delivery” in response to the coronavirus crisis.
The free service aims to give “peace of mind” to customers wishing to limit physical contact following the rapid spread of Covid-19.
Domino’s and Deliveroo have announced plans to introduce no-contact drop-off from next week.
Domino’s said its drivers will call the customer when they arrive to arrange a drop off point, then stay at least two metres away while the order is checked and confirmed to be correct.
Deliveries must be paid for in advance online or over the phone.
Domino’s CEO David Wild said in a statement that the company hoped to safeguard both its customers and drivers.
He added: “For customers who want to feel even safer when ordering, from next week we will launch Contact Free Delivery. This service comes at no additional charge and is in response to some customers wishing to limit physical contact during the current COVID-19 outbreak.
“By introducing Contact Free Delivery, we believe that we will give our customers peace of mind when ordering a Domino’s, while also protecting our delivery drivers.”
Deliveroo added: “We’re also launching a no-contact drop-off service which will mean you can request in the app that your rider leaves the food on your doorstep – removing the need for direct contact for both parties.”
The takeaway delivery website has also launched a fund to support riders diagnosed with coronavirus who are unable to work.
It comes as unions urged the government to provide sick pay for “gig economy” workers.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Niall Horan issues huge update over One Direction reunion

Niall Horan has revealed he believes One Direction will get back together .
The Irish singer spent six years in the wildly popular boyband , alongside Harry Styles , Liam Payne , Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik , who left the group a year before they went on hiatus in 2016 .
Horan appeared on Carpool Karaoke with James Corden as part of his week-long stint on The Late Late Show to promote his latest album .
During the drive around Los Angeles , the pair sang along to Horan ’ s hits Slow Hands and Nice To Meet Ya @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Steal My Girl .
The conversation soon turned to the chart-topping band , who were formed on the X Factor and went on to be one of the world ’ s biggest acts .
Horan said : “ Having looked at 1D from the outside now , I got to see how big it was .
Because when you were in the band , your work becomes normal and you ’ re in a bubble and you don ’ t get to see what it looks like from the outside .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I realise how lucky we were .
There was no-one doing stadiums at the time .
It was just insane.
” During a lie detector segment , Horan admitted he believes the group will get back together .
He was also asked if he likes Simon Cowell , the music mogul who put the band together .
After a lengthy pause , Horan answered “ sometimes ” , which was found to be true .
However , the 26-year-old was caught lying when asked what was his favourite late-night show to perform on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s before admitting it was in fact Saturday Night Live .
Corden was next to take the test .
He was asked what song he thought was better , Slow Hands or Styles ’ s 2017 hit Sign Of The Times .
The host grimaced before admitting he preferred the latter .
For the final question , Horan asked if he was Corden ’ s favourite member of One Direction – the answer , “ yes ” , was the truth .
During the drive , it was also revealed that Horan ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Corden a decade ago was Da_pimp_is_ere @ hotmail.co.uk .

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Niall Horan has revealed he believes One Direction will get back together.
The Irish singer spent six years in the wildly popular boyband, alongside Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik, who left the group a year before they went on hiatus in 2016.
Horan appeared on Carpool Karaoke with James Corden as part of his week-long stint on The Late Late Show to promote his latest album.
During the drive around Los Angeles, the pair sang along to Horan’s hits Slow Hands and Nice To Meet Ya, as well as One Direction’s Steal My Girl.
The conversation soon turned to the chart-topping band, who were formed on the X Factor and went on to be one of the world’s biggest acts.
Horan said: “Having looked at 1D from the outside now, I got to see how big it was. Because when you were in the band, your work becomes normal and you’re in a bubble and you don’t get to see what it looks like from the outside.
“It’s only looking back now I realise how lucky we were. There was no-one doing stadiums at the time. It was just insane.”
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During a lie detector segment, Horan admitted he believes the group will get back together.
He was also asked if he likes Simon Cowell, the music mogul who put the band together. After a lengthy pause, Horan answered “sometimes”, which was found to be true.
However, the 26-year-old was caught lying when asked what was his favourite late-night show to perform on.
Horan said it was Corden’s before admitting it was in fact Saturday Night Live.
Corden was next to take the test. He was asked what song he thought was better, Slow Hands or Styles’s 2017 hit Sign Of The Times. The host grimaced before admitting he preferred the latter.
For the final question, Horan asked if he was Corden’s favourite member of One Direction – the answer, “yes”, was the truth.
During the drive, it was also revealed that Horan’s email address when he first met Corden a decade ago was Da_pimp_is_ere@hotmail.co.uk.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Lin-Manuel Miranda releases unheard Hamilton track as coronavirus comfort

Lin-Manuel Miranda has released a previously unheard song he wrote for Hamilton to distract his fans from concern about coronavirus .
The US star shared a recording of the song I Have This Friend , which he recorded with Christopher Jackson , who played George Washington in the original Broadway cast .
The show , which has been a phenomenon around the world , tells the story of the US ’ s first secretary of the treasury , Alexander Hamilton , through the medium of rap and hip hop .
Miranda said even the show ’ s director Thomas Kail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote on Twitter : “ Wish I could send you peace of mind via this app .
Alas .
But I can send you music no one ’ s heard .
“ Here ’ s a cut Hamilton/Washington tune called I Have This Friend .
No one ’ s heard it , not even Kail .
“ Funnier if you picture me and @ ChrisisSingin singing it.
” On Thursday it was announced all performances of the Broadway production of the hit musical have been suspended until April 12 amid concern about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspended all shows until that date , following instructions from New York governor Andrew Cuomo .

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Lin-Manuel Miranda has released a previously unheard song he wrote for Hamilton to distract his fans from concern about coronavirus.
The US star shared a recording of the song I Have This Friend, which he recorded with Christopher Jackson, who played George Washington in the original Broadway cast.
The show, which has been a phenomenon around the world, tells the story of the US’s first secretary of the treasury, Alexander Hamilton, through the medium of rap and hip hop.
Miranda said even the show’s director Thomas Kail has not heard the track.
He wrote on Twitter: “Wish I could send you peace of mind via this app. Alas. But I can send you music no one’s heard.
“Here’s a cut Hamilton/Washington tune called I Have This Friend. No one’s heard it, not even Kail.
“Funnier if you picture me and @ChrisisSingin singing it.”
On Thursday it was announced all performances of the Broadway production of the hit musical have been suspended until April 12 amid concern about the coronavirus outbreak.
The Broadway League has suspended all shows until that date, following instructions from New York governor Andrew Cuomo.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Rape gang who sexually abused girl causing her 'psychological harm' jailed

A gang who sexually abused a girl and caused her `` severe psychological harm '' have received lengthy jail sentences .
Following a six-week trial at Sheffield Crown Court , five men were convicted of a range of offences including rape and perverting the course of justice .
South Yorkshire Police said they were : - Jasim Mohammed , 37 , of Maxwell Way , Sheffield , who was convicted of three counts of repeated offences of rape and was jailed for 25 years .
- Nzar Anwar , 40 , of Exeter Drive , Sheffield , who was convicted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ count of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and was jailed for 15 years .
- Kawan Omar Ahmed , 31 , of Margate Drive , Sheffield who was convicted of two counts of rape and was jailed for 18 years .
- Shangar Ibrahimi , 30 , of HMP Hull , who was convicted of one count of rape and was jailed for 12 years .
- Saba Mohammed , 41 , of Faranden Road , Sheffield , who was convicted of one count of conspiracy to pervert the course of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Judge Michael Slater said the defendants all played roles in abusing `` an extremely vulnerable and troubled young girl who had suffered , and continues to suffer , severe psychological harm '' .
After the case , South Yorkshire Police assistant chief constable Tim Forber praised the victim for her courage .
He said : `` This hearing is the culmination of a lengthy and complex investigation and I am pleased with the significant sentences which have been handed to five very dangerous individuals today .
`` These men have shown no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ courageous young woman has had to re-live her traumatic experiences in front of a jury . ''

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A gang who sexually abused a girl and caused her "severe psychological harm" have received lengthy jail sentences.
Following a six-week trial at Sheffield Crown Court, five men were convicted of a range of offences including rape and perverting the course of justice.
South Yorkshire Police said they were:
- Jasim Mohammed, 37, of Maxwell Way, Sheffield, who was convicted of three counts of repeated offences of rape and was jailed for 25 years.
- Nzar Anwar, 40, of Exeter Drive, Sheffield, who was convicted of one count of rape and one count of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and was jailed for 15 years.
- Kawan Omar Ahmed, 31, of Margate Drive, Sheffield who was convicted of two counts of rape and was jailed for 18 years.
- Shangar Ibrahimi, 30, of HMP Hull, who was convicted of one count of rape and was jailed for 12 years.
- Saba Mohammed, 41, of Faranden Road, Sheffield, who was convicted of one count of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and was jailed for four years.
Judge Michael Slater said the defendants all played roles in abusing "an extremely vulnerable and troubled young girl who had suffered, and continues to suffer, severe psychological harm".
After the case, South Yorkshire Police assistant chief constable Tim Forber praised the victim for her courage.
He said: "This hearing is the culmination of a lengthy and complex investigation and I am pleased with the significant sentences which have been handed to five very dangerous individuals today.
"These men have shown no remorse throughout this trial, while a courageous young woman has had to re-live her traumatic experiences in front of a jury."


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Sexual predator who hacked iCloud accounts to steal photos jailed

A sexual predator has been jailed for hacking into hundreds of iCloud accounts to steal people 's private photographs , many of which were of an intimate nature , and post some of them on the internet .
Robert Field carried out `` meticulous '' research on his victims , some of whom were known to him , and by having their email details was able to successfully guess their security questions , Essex Police said .
Most of his activity took place when the victims were sleeping , meaning they would only find out that their passwords had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also mistook the emails as phishing scams .
The 38-year-old , of Nightingale Avenue , Hathern , Loughborough , admitted at an earlier hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court to 28 counts of causing a computer to perform a function to secure unauthorised data and one count of securing unauthorised access to computer material with intent , Essex Police said .
The force said he was sentenced on Friday to 32 months in prison .
Field accessed 297 victim accounts , of both men and women , to download and steal their private photographs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
He shared the photographs with other individuals in private and in some cases , on public websites .
Police found that Field kept a full detailed spreadsheet on his computer that contained the personal details of all of his victims including their security answers , names , date of birth and addresses .
He also include the techniques he had used to hack their accounts and what he had captured .
Field wrote every changed password down in this document and there was evidence that showed he had hacked or attempted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sergeant Ian Collins , of Essex Police 's cyber crime team , described Field as a `` sexual predator '' .
`` His secret lifestyle went hidden for many years until we received just a single report that revealed much , much more , '' he said .
`` Field used his specialist knowledge to hack his unsuspecting victims ' accounts across the country and then accessed their most intimate photographs , having no regard to the distress and embarrassment he caused to them .
`` This case highlights the importance of using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online accounts which I urge people to use as this would have prevented the access to these accounts as the defendant would have needed the mobile phone of the victims at the same time . ''
Field 's sentence is part of a larger Essex Police investigation involving a number of suspects across the country found to be hacking into hundreds of iCloud accounts .
It started after a victim from Grays reported her iCloud account being hacked and her personal intimate pictures posted online .
Three other offenders have already been convicted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operation .

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A sexual predator has been jailed for hacking into hundreds of iCloud accounts to steal people's private photographs, many of which were of an intimate nature, and post some of them on the internet.
Robert Field carried out "meticulous" research on his victims, some of whom were known to him, and by having their email details was able to successfully guess their security questions, Essex Police said.
Most of his activity took place when the victims were sleeping, meaning they would only find out that their passwords had been reset after waking up.
Some people also mistook the emails as phishing scams.
The 38-year-old, of Nightingale Avenue, Hathern, Loughborough, admitted at an earlier hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court to 28 counts of causing a computer to perform a function to secure unauthorised data and one count of securing unauthorised access to computer material with intent, Essex Police said.
The force said he was sentenced on Friday to 32 months in prison.
Field accessed 297 victim accounts, of both men and women, to download and steal their private photographs for his own sexual gratification, police said.
He shared the photographs with other individuals in private and in some cases, on public websites.
Police found that Field kept a full detailed spreadsheet on his computer that contained the personal details of all of his victims including their security answers, names, date of birth and addresses.
He also include the techniques he had used to hack their accounts and what he had captured.
Field wrote every changed password down in this document and there was evidence that showed he had hacked or attempted to hack hundreds of accounts.
Detective Sergeant Ian Collins, of Essex Police's cyber crime team, described Field as a "sexual predator".
"His secret lifestyle went hidden for many years until we received just a single report that revealed much, much more," he said.
"Field used his specialist knowledge to hack his unsuspecting victims' accounts across the country and then accessed their most intimate photographs, having no regard to the distress and embarrassment he caused to them.
"This case highlights the importance of using two-factor authentication (2FA) on your online accounts which I urge people to use as this would have prevented the access to these accounts as the defendant would have needed the mobile phone of the victims at the same time."
Field's sentence is part of a larger Essex Police investigation involving a number of suspects across the country found to be hacking into hundreds of iCloud accounts.
It started after a victim from Grays reported her iCloud account being hacked and her personal intimate pictures posted online.
Three other offenders have already been convicted for iCloud hacking as part of the operation.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Lorry driver who killed two men on hard shoulder while driving with foot to floor jailed

A lorry driver has been jailed for nine years after he killed two men on a hard shoulder by crashing into them while driving with his foot to the floor , according to police .
Wayne Wellington , of Huddersfield , West Yorkshire , was found to have cocaine in his system at the time of the crash on the A34 near Bullington Cross , Hampshire , on July 3 2018 .
The 41-year-old was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court for causing the death by dangerous driving of Vipin Kumar , 43 , from Reading , Berkshire , and Kevin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wiltshire .
A Hampshire Police spokesman said that the pair had been stopped on the hard shoulder following a minor collision when the crash involving Wellington 's Daf lorry happened .
He said : `` As they exchanged details Wellington collided with Mr Ackrell 's van which in turn hit both of the men .
`` Mr Kumar was pronounced dead at the scene , and Mr Ackrell died in hospital three days later from his injuries .
`` When officers attended they performed a drugs wipe and found he was over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of our subsequent investigations officers found that no attempt had been made to brake before the collision and the accelerator was at 100 % . ''
As well as the prison sentence , Wellington was banned from driving for 10 years and will have to take an extended retest .
Detective Sergeant Tony Jenkins said : `` Having taken drugs the night before , he essentially slid from his bed to the driver 's seat upon waking up and set about driving his lorry .
`` His actions have had devastating consequences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

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A lorry driver has been jailed for nine years after he killed two men on a hard shoulder by crashing into them while driving with his foot to the floor, according to police.
Wayne Wellington, of Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, was found to have cocaine in his system at the time of the crash on the A34 near Bullington Cross, Hampshire, on July 3 2018.
The 41-year-old was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court for causing the death by dangerous driving of Vipin Kumar, 43, from Reading, Berkshire, and Kevin Ackrell, 49, from Trowbridge, Wiltshire.
A Hampshire Police spokesman said that the pair had been stopped on the hard shoulder following a minor collision when the crash involving Wellington's Daf lorry happened.
He said: "As they exchanged details Wellington collided with Mr Ackrell's van which in turn hit both of the men.
"Mr Kumar was pronounced dead at the scene, and Mr Ackrell died in hospital three days later from his injuries.
"When officers attended they performed a drugs wipe and found he was over the legal limit for cocaine.
"As part of our subsequent investigations officers found that no attempt had been made to brake before the collision and the accelerator was at 100%."
As well as the prison sentence, Wellington was banned from driving for 10 years and will have to take an extended retest.
Detective Sergeant Tony Jenkins said: "Having taken drugs the night before, he essentially slid from his bed to the driver's seat upon waking up and set about driving his lorry.
"His actions have had devastating consequences for the families of his victims."


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Two men in gun smuggling conspiracy jailed after bringing weapons into UK

Two men in a gun smuggling conspiracy thought to have brought a `` staggering '' number of weapons into the UK have been given large prison sentences .
Steven Spires , 37 , was sentenced to 26 years in prison for conspiracy to import firearms while Denis Kolencukov , 26 , was handed 19 years and two months for the same offence .
Michael Nicholls , 28 , was also convicted for his role in the conspiracy but will be sentenced at a later date as his barrister is currently self-isolating due to coronavirus , Kingston Crown Court was told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the group carried out seven importations between January and July 2017 .
On July 1 2017 , Border Force officers swooped on a vehicle in France just before it entered the Channel Tunnel and seized a total of 79 handguns and more than 4,000 of rounds of ammunition hidden in engine blocks on the van 's trailer .
Mr Hewertson said : `` In the eye of the beholder , the beauty of the conspiracy was the simplicity . ''
The court heard Kolencukov would buy revolvers , which were legal to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have them transported via an unwitting courier .
The weapons and ammunition would be transported to the Seaborough Industrial Estate in Slough where Spires would manage their onward sale , the court heard .
The July haul alone is estimated to have been worth between £100,000 and £150,000 .
While the guns in 4mm and 6mm calibres cost between £35 and £130 to purchase , their illicit selling prices in the UK ranges between £1,000 and £2,000 .
Kolencukov was arrested after the Border Force raid on July 1 2017 while Spires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with nine guns in the car park of the Whip and Collar Pub near the industrial estate .
A total of 95 handguns were seized as part of the investigation , but the organised criminal operation is likely to have successfully imported at least 500 weapons , potentially up to 700 , the court heard .
Mr Hewertson said : `` If each were of similar size and volume as the July consignment , we would have in the range of 700 lethal firearms .
`` Therefore , a profit range of around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kingston Crown Court heard 138 illegal revolvers were seized in the UK in 2017 , described as `` the tip of the iceberg '' .
`` The criminal activities of the defendants due to be sentenced has significantly increased the availability of firearms capable of lethal force in the UK , '' Mr Hewertson said .
Spires , of no fixed abode , and Nicholls , from Slough , were found guilty of conspiracy to import firearms while Kolencukov admitted the charge before trial .
Kolencukov , also from Slough , further admitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ endanger life or enable another to endanger life , and a similar charge of conspiracy to possess ammunition .
Spires and Nicholls were acquitted of the two additional charges but convicted of a charge of possession of a prohibited weapon .
Sentencing Spires and Kolencukov , Judge Rajeev Shetty said the conspiracy involved a `` staggering '' number of guns .
He said : `` This was a well organised and lucrative conspiracy to import revolvers and ammunition from the continent . ''
Addressing Spires , who gave a thumbs-up as he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While these guns are revolvers , they are still lethally powerful and every single gun and every single bullet could have killed someone .
`` They were imported and sold for profit with indifference about who they may hurt .
`` You were aware of the purpose of these guns being imported .
They were going to proper criminals for proper criminal activity . ''
He added : `` For someone who obviously has so much energy and may I say , a degree of natural charisma , what a waste of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shetty added : `` You , Mr Kolencukov , were doing much of the work in respect of obtaining the ammunition and firearms .
`` Compared to Mr Spires ' case , there is clearly a lot more mitigation . ''
All three men will return to Kingston Crown Court for confiscation proceedings later this year .

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Two men in a gun smuggling conspiracy thought to have brought a "staggering" number of weapons into the UK have been given large prison sentences.
Steven Spires, 37, was sentenced to 26 years in prison for conspiracy to import firearms while Denis Kolencukov, 26, was handed 19 years and two months for the same offence.
Michael Nicholls, 28, was also convicted for his role in the conspiracy but will be sentenced at a later date as his barrister is currently self-isolating due to coronavirus, Kingston Crown Court was told.
On Friday, prosecutor Christopher Hewertson said the group carried out seven importations between January and July 2017.
On July 1 2017, Border Force officers swooped on a vehicle in France just before it entered the Channel Tunnel and seized a total of 79 handguns and more than 4,000 of rounds of ammunition hidden in engine blocks on the van's trailer.
Mr Hewertson said: "In the eye of the beholder, the beauty of the conspiracy was the simplicity."
The court heard Kolencukov would buy revolvers, which were legal to purchase in his native Czech Republic, and have them transported via an unwitting courier.
The weapons and ammunition would be transported to the Seaborough Industrial Estate in Slough where Spires would manage their onward sale, the court heard.
The July haul alone is estimated to have been worth between £100,000 and £150,000.
While the guns in 4mm and 6mm calibres cost between £35 and £130 to purchase, their illicit selling prices in the UK ranges between £1,000 and £2,000.
Kolencukov was arrested after the Border Force raid on July 1 2017 while Spires and Nicholls were arrested two days later with nine guns in the car park of the Whip and Collar Pub near the industrial estate.
A total of 95 handguns were seized as part of the investigation, but the organised criminal operation is likely to have successfully imported at least 500 weapons, potentially up to 700, the court heard.
Mr Hewertson said: "If each were of similar size and volume as the July consignment, we would have in the range of 700 lethal firearms.
"Therefore, a profit range of around between £600,000 and £1.2 million."
Kingston Crown Court heard 138 illegal revolvers were seized in the UK in 2017, described as "the tip of the iceberg".
"The criminal activities of the defendants due to be sentenced has significantly increased the availability of firearms capable of lethal force in the UK," Mr Hewertson said.
Spires, of no fixed abode, and Nicholls, from Slough, were found guilty of conspiracy to import firearms while Kolencukov admitted the charge before trial.
Kolencukov, also from Slough, further admitted conspiracy to possess firearms with intent to endanger life or enable another to endanger life, and a similar charge of conspiracy to possess ammunition.
Spires and Nicholls were acquitted of the two additional charges but convicted of a charge of possession of a prohibited weapon.
Sentencing Spires and Kolencukov, Judge Rajeev Shetty said the conspiracy involved a "staggering" number of guns.
He said: "This was a well organised and lucrative conspiracy to import revolvers and ammunition from the continent."
Addressing Spires, who gave a thumbs-up as he was sentenced, Judge Shetty added: "While these guns are revolvers, they are still lethally powerful and every single gun and every single bullet could have killed someone.
"They were imported and sold for profit with indifference about who they may hurt.
"You were aware of the purpose of these guns being imported. They were going to proper criminals for proper criminal activity."
He added: "For someone who obviously has so much energy and may I say, a degree of natural charisma, what a waste of a life it has been."
Judge Shetty added: "You, Mr Kolencukov, were doing much of the work in respect of obtaining the ammunition and firearms.
"Compared to Mr Spires' case, there is clearly a lot more mitigation."
All three men will return to Kingston Crown Court for confiscation proceedings later this year.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Top Metropolitan Police officer sacked over child abuse video on mobile phone

A highly decorated police officer convicted of possessing a child abuse video on her phone has been sacked without notice by the Metropolitan Police .
Superintendent Novlett Robyn Williams , 54 , was dismissed with immediate effect after a special disciplinary hearing on Friday found her conviction amounted to `` gross misconduct '' .
Williams , who was commended for her work after the Grenfell Tower disaster , was sentenced to 200 hours community service for possessing an indecent image at the Old Bailey in November .
The disgraced officer is `` disappointed and devastated '' by the decision , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which was supporting her through the trial and the disciplinary process .
She continues to deny any wrongdoing and is appealing against her conviction and sentence .
Williams is now considering whether to appeal the decision to dismiss her .
She was called to the hearing over allegations she had breached standards of professional behaviour following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct ( IOPC ) .
Following her dismissal , the Met said in a statement : `` An independent investigation was carried out by the Independent Office for Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IOPC that Supt Williams should face a special case hearing following her conviction .
`` Assistant Commissioner Helen Ball , professionalism , sitting with a legal adviser , conducted the hearing and found that Supt Williams ' conviction was discreditable conduct and amounted to gross misconduct .
`` The MPS is aware Supt Williams has lodged an application for leave to appeal her conviction with the Court of Appeal .
However , the regulations under which this special case hearing was held require such hearings take place without delay . ''
Victor Marshall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police Superintendents Association , said : `` The hearing heard overwhelming and unprecedented support for Superintendent Williams from communities and people , both inside and outside policing about her dedication to public service in the 36 years she has served .
`` She has continuously denied any wrongdoing and the Police Superintendents ' Association has supported her throughout this process .
`` We will continue to do so throughout the legal appeal being made against her conviction and sentence , and consideration of appeal against this decision . ''
Jurors in November heard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ older sister , co-defendant Jennifer Hodge , 56 , via WhatsApp .
The court accepted Williams did not view the footage but the jury was not convinced she was unaware of it being on her phone .
Hodge was sentenced to 100 hours ' unpaid work after being convicted of distributing an indecent image of a child .
She received the footage from her partner , bus driver Dido Massivi , 63 , who was found guilty of the same count as well as possessing extreme pornography .
Massivi was handed an 18-month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ordered to carry out 200 hours unpaid work .

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A highly decorated police officer convicted of possessing a child abuse video on her phone has been sacked without notice by the Metropolitan Police.
Superintendent Novlett Robyn Williams, 54, was dismissed with immediate effect after a special disciplinary hearing on Friday found her conviction amounted to "gross misconduct".
Williams, who was commended for her work after the Grenfell Tower disaster, was sentenced to 200 hours community service for possessing an indecent image at the Old Bailey in November.
The disgraced officer is "disappointed and devastated" by the decision, according to the Police Superintendents Association, which was supporting her through the trial and the disciplinary process.
She continues to deny any wrongdoing and is appealing against her conviction and sentence.
Williams is now considering whether to appeal the decision to dismiss her.
She was called to the hearing over allegations she had breached standards of professional behaviour following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Following her dismissal, the Met said in a statement: "An independent investigation was carried out by the Independent Office for Police Conduct and the MPS agreed with the IOPC that Supt Williams should face a special case hearing following her conviction.
"Assistant Commissioner Helen Ball, professionalism, sitting with a legal adviser, conducted the hearing and found that Supt Williams' conviction was discreditable conduct and amounted to gross misconduct.
"The MPS is aware Supt Williams has lodged an application for leave to appeal her conviction with the Court of Appeal. However, the regulations under which this special case hearing was held require such hearings take place without delay."
Victor Marshall OBE, professional standards coordinator at the Police Superintendents Association, said: "The hearing heard overwhelming and unprecedented support for Superintendent Williams from communities and people, both inside and outside policing about her dedication to public service in the 36 years she has served.
"She has continuously denied any wrongdoing and the Police Superintendents' Association has supported her throughout this process.
"We will continue to do so throughout the legal appeal being made against her conviction and sentence, and consideration of appeal against this decision."
Jurors in November heard how Williams received the video from her older sister, co-defendant Jennifer Hodge, 56, via WhatsApp.
The court accepted Williams did not view the footage but the jury was not convinced she was unaware of it being on her phone.
Hodge was sentenced to 100 hours' unpaid work after being convicted of distributing an indecent image of a child.
She received the footage from her partner, bus driver Dido Massivi, 63, who was found guilty of the same count as well as possessing extreme pornography.
Massivi was handed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for two years and ordered to carry out 200 hours unpaid work.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Pedro, Vertonghen, Giroud - The Premier League stars Aston Villa could sign for free

The confirmation that the Premier League season has been suspended has rocked supporters , players and pundits alike .
With the coronavirus continuing to spread across the world , bosses have made the unprecedented decision to halt the top-flight schedule .
April 4 is the date tentatively pencilled in for the season to resume - although there are fears that the campaign could prematurely end altogether .
Aston Villa 's top-flight was already in limbo , before this week 's shocking developments , Dean Smith 's side sit 19th in the division after suffering four defeats on the spin .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not only when the season will end , but when the summer transfer window will open .
FIFA demands that the transfer window in the summer must be open for around 12 weeks , so it is currently scheduled to open for business shortly after the season is due to come to a close on 12th May .
However , new signings can not be registered until the start of July , and are subsequently unable to feature for their new clubs until after that date .
If the season was to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raises further problems for the usual transfer window structure - especially as FIFA regulations currently state that a player can not represent more than two clubs during the course of a single season .
With all that in mind , for now , we must assume the show will go on ... eventually .
Regardless of the division Villa find themselves in next season , they will be dipping back into the transfer market .
After spending well over £100m in the window last close season , it stands to reason that could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around .
Hundreds of players will be winding down the contracts with the hope of securing a big move .
Below are some of the most notable names that Smith could be able to grab for free , when he has the opportunity to do so :

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Peter Smith, Ben Husband)

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The confirmation that the Premier League season has been suspended has rocked supporters, players and pundits alike.
With the coronavirus continuing to spread across the world, bosses have made the unprecedented decision to halt the top-flight schedule.
April 4 is the date tentatively pencilled in for the season to resume - although there are fears that the campaign could prematurely end altogether.
Aston Villa's top-flight was already in limbo, before this week's shocking developments, Dean Smith's side sit 19th in the division after suffering four defeats on the spin.
(Image: Plumb Images/Getty Images)
The suspension has raised countless questions about not only when the season will end, but when the summer transfer window will open.
FIFA demands that the transfer window in the summer must be open for around 12 weeks, so it is currently scheduled to open for business shortly after the season is due to come to a close on 12th May.
However, new signings cannot be registered until the start of July, and are subsequently unable to feature for their new clubs until after that date.
If the season was to be extended into the summer though, that raises further problems for the usual transfer window structure - especially as FIFA regulations currently state that a player cannot represent more than two clubs during the course of a single season.
With all that in mind, for now, we must assume the show will go on...eventually. Regardless of the division Villa find themselves in next season, they will be dipping back into the transfer market.
After spending well over £100m in the window last close season, it stands to reason that could be a more pragmatic approach this time around. Hundreds of players will be winding down the contracts with the hope of securing a big move.
Below are some of the most notable names that Smith could be able to grab for free, when he has the opportunity to do so:
GOALKEEPERS
Artur Boruc, aged 40
Claudio Bravo, aged 36
Willy Caballero, aged 38
Karl Darlow, aged 29
Rob Elliot, aged 33
Ben Foster, aged 36
Heurelho Gomes, aged 39
Joe Hart, aged 32
(Image: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
Stephen Henderson, aged 31
Eldin Jakupovic, aged 35
Adam Legzdins, aged 33
Andy Lonergan, aged 36
Matt Macey, aged 25
John Ruddy, aged 33
Maarten Stekelenburg, aged 37
Michel Vorm, aged 36
RIGHT BACKS
Phil Bardsley, aged 34
Nathaniel Clyne, aged 28
Timothy Fosu-Mensah, aged 22
Simon Francis, aged 35
Kieron Freeman, aged 27
Javier Manquillo, aged 25
Cuco Martina, aged 30
Phil Ofosu-Ayeh , aged 28
Ezequiel Schelotto, aged 30
Jamie Sterry, aged 24
Pablo Zabaleta, aged 35
LEFT-BACKS
Leighton Baines, aged 35
(Image: Getty Images)
Charlie Daniels, aged 33
Christian Fuchs, aged 33
José Holebas, aged 35
CENTRAL DEFENDERS
Scott Dann, aged 33
Federico Fernández, aged 31
Phil Jagielka, aged 37
Max Kilman, aged 22
Adrian Mariappa, aged 33
Wes Morgan, aged 36
Jack Simpson, aged 23
Japhet Tanganga, aged 20
Jan Vertonghen, aged 32
MIDFIELDERS
Jack Colback, aged 30
Jeff Hendrick, aged 28
Beram Kayal, aged 31
Adam Lallana, aged 31
Matthew Longstaff, aged 19
John Lundstram, aged 26
Nemanja Matic, aged 31
Nampalys Mendy, aged 27
Jack Rodwell, aged 29
Carlos Sánchez, aged 34
David Silva, aged 34
Andrew Surman, aged 33
Marco Van Ginkel, aged 27
WINGERS
Jordon Ibe, aged 24
Aaron Lennon, aged 32
Pedro, aged 32
Willian, aged 31
Robbie Brady, aged 28
Ryan Fraser, aged 26
Ricky Holmes, aged 32
STRIKERS
Olivier Giroud, aged 33
Andy Carroll, aged 31
Leon Clarke, aged 35
Bright Enobakhare, aged 22
Shane Long, aged 33
Oumar Niasse, aged 29


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Whisky maker Ardberg unveils special beer to raise funds for World Water Day

World-renowned whisky distillery Ardbeg has announced the release of its first-ever beer – The Shortie Smoky Porter .
Named after Ardbeg ’ s beloved canine mascot , Shortie the Jack Russell , this limited edition brew will be launched in partnership with charity Brewgooder as part of its Global Gathering campaign .
The beer is the brain-child of flatmates Alan McIntyre , global brand manager at Ardbeg , and Alan Mahon , founder of Brewgooder .
It has been produced in aid of World Water Day on March 22 with all profits from Shortie Smoky Porter donated to support clean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this one-off beer – which will be available exclusively in the UK for a limited time only - Ardbeg has joined forces with Williams Bros. Brewing Co. to use the same peated malt as the award-winning Ardbeg Ten Years Old whisky .
This helps the brew capture the Islay distillery ’ s signature smoky character with notes of bitter dark chocolate , malty biscuit , dry espresso coffee and a hint of liquorice .
Ardbeg is the only spirits brand alongside around 250 craft brewers from around the world , all releasing their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Global Gathering .
A coordinated release of the beers will take place over the weekend of World Water Day .
n , Ardbeg director of distilling , whisky creation & whisky stocks commented : “ We all dig Ardbeg , and no more so than Shortie .
So for this life-saving , well-digging clean water brew , it was only fitting that our canine mascot should represent Islay .
`` As with most porters , this beer is smooth and creamy .
However our malt has helped make it distinctly smoky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brewgooder , commented : `` This collaboration is particularly special for me .
To create an incredible beer that helps empower people 's lives is one thing , to do it with one of the world 's best whisky brands is another , but to bring it to life with my best friend : there are few things I have been prouder of in my life .
`` I look forward to working with the team at Ardbeg to turn the profits from this beer into life-saving clean water wells for those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available to purchase at Hard To Find Whisky , Spencer Street , The Jewellery Quarter , Birmingham , plus specialist whisky stockists nationwide .

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World-renowned whisky distillery Ardbeg has announced the release of its first-ever beer – The Shortie Smoky Porter.
Named after Ardbeg’s beloved canine mascot, Shortie the Jack Russell, this limited edition brew will be launched in partnership with charity Brewgooder as part of its Global Gathering campaign.
The beer is the brain-child of flatmates Alan McIntyre, global brand manager at Ardbeg, and Alan Mahon, founder of Brewgooder. It has been produced in aid of World Water Day on March 22 with all profits from Shortie Smoky Porter donated to support clean water projects in Malawi.
To produce this one-off beer – which will be available exclusively in the UK for a limited time only - Ardbeg has joined forces with Williams Bros. Brewing Co. to use the same peated malt as the award-winning Ardbeg Ten Years Old whisky.
This helps the brew capture the Islay distillery’s signature smoky character with notes of bitter dark chocolate, malty biscuit, dry espresso coffee and a hint of liquorice.
Ardbeg is the only spirits brand alongside around 250 craft brewers from around the world, all releasing their own unique, one off-brew in aid of the Global Gathering. A coordinated release of the beers will take place over the weekend of World Water Day.
Dr Bill Lumsde
n, Ardbeg director of distilling, whisky creation & whisky stocks commented: “We all dig Ardbeg, and no more so than Shortie. So for this life-saving, well-digging clean water brew, it was only fitting that our canine mascot should represent Islay.
"As with most porters, this beer is smooth and creamy. However our malt has helped make it distinctly smoky."
Alan Mahon, founder of Brewgooder, commented: "This collaboration is particularly special for me. To create an incredible beer that helps empower people's lives is one thing, to do it with one of the world's best whisky brands is another, but to bring it to life with my best friend: there are few things I have been prouder of in my life.
"I look forward to working with the team at Ardbeg to turn the profits from this beer into life-saving clean water wells for those who need them."
It will be available to purchase at Hard To Find Whisky, Spencer Street, The Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, plus specialist whisky stockists nationwide.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--Coronavirus crisis causes Houses of Parliament to limit visitor access

The Houses of Parliament is to limit visitor access from Monday and introduce restrictions on overseas travel .
In a joint statement , Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Lord Speaker Lord Fowler said : `` We are resolved that Parliament should , insofar as possible , continue to fulfil its important constitutional duties of passing legislation , holding Government to account and , crucially , representing the views of the people of the United Kingdom and making their voice heard .
`` In order to preserve the operation of Parliament , it is our duty to take proportionate and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those who work on the parliamentary estate and those who have to visit .
`` We are clear that now is the time to be pragmatic ; everyone in the country is being asked to strike a balance and it is right that we do the same .
`` It is in this spirit that we have decided to implement a number of restrictions relating to overseas travel and visitor access .
`` These steps have been developed in conjunction with Public Health England and reflect the Government 's current approach .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the parliamentary estate solely to view Westminster Hall will not be admitted . ''
Most events staged within parliament are set to be cancelled or postponed , but debating and voters by peers and MPs will continue , it is understood .

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The Houses of Parliament is to limit visitor access from Monday and introduce restrictions on overseas travel.
In a joint statement, Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Lord Speaker Lord Fowler said: "We are resolved that Parliament should, insofar as possible, continue to fulfil its important constitutional duties of passing legislation, holding Government to account and, crucially, representing the views of the people of the United Kingdom and making their voice heard.
"In order to preserve the operation of Parliament, it is our duty to take proportionate and reasonable measures to reduce the risk to those who work on the parliamentary estate and those who have to visit.
Coronavirus blog
"We are clear that now is the time to be pragmatic; everyone in the country is being asked to strike a balance and it is right that we do the same.
"It is in this spirit that we have decided to implement a number of restrictions relating to overseas travel and visitor access.
"These steps have been developed in conjunction with Public Health England and reflect the Government's current approach.
"Members of the public wishing to enter the parliamentary estate solely to view Westminster Hall will not be admitted."
Most events staged within parliament are set to be cancelled or postponed, but debating and voters by peers and MPs will continue, it is understood.


birminghammail--2020-03-13--UK's biggest gaming festival Insomnia66 cancelled at Birmingham NEC due to coronavirus

Insomnia66 , said to be the biggest gaming festival in the UK , has been cancelled at Birmingham NEC due to COVID-19 .
The news comes as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise across the country , with a total of 798 people testing positive as of 9am on Friday , up from 590 at the same point on Thursday , according to the Department of Health .
Gaming festival organisers said they recognised the decision to cancel the event , due to take place from April 10 to 13 , would be disappointing for visitors but that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of everyone involved in the show .
To keep up-to-date with the latest updates regarding Coronavirus join out Facebook group here A spokesman said : `` It ’ s with incredible disappointment and reluctance that we have to update you that Insomnia66 this April 10th-13th at the NEC , is cancelled due to COVID-19 .
`` We appreciate this will come as a major disappointment but we want to ensure our priority is the welfare of our guests , exhibitors , staff , volunteers and suppliers ; as well as producing a show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to expect and enjoy . ''
Ticket holders will be contacted directly by See Tickets regarding refunds as soon as possible .
He added : `` A lot of work from our very dedicated Insomnia family has gone into making this event happen and this outcome is far from what we envisaged for Insomnia66 .
`` To make the best of this difficult situation , we will be dedicating time to working with our partners and exhibitors to make our summer show better than ever .
In the interim , your feedback on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is very greatly appreciated . ''
Summer ’ s Insomnia67 is due to return to the NEC from August 28 to 31 .
Last year 's event - Insomnia65 - featured UK first plays of the latest games like Ghost Recon : Breakpoint and Just Dance 2020 as well as hands-on gameplay of Borderlands 3 and more .
There was also the chance to meet internet sensations WillNE , Seapeekay , Dangthatsalongname , Jacksucksatlife and more .
Tournaments including Insomnia Masters and Belong Arena Clash finals battled it out on the Esports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the VR , Indie , Retro , Competitive and Battle Royale zones .

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Insomnia66, said to be the biggest gaming festival in the UK, has been cancelled at Birmingham NEC due to COVID-19.
The news comes as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise across the country, with a total of 798 people testing positive as of 9am on Friday, up from 590 at the same point on Thursday, according to the Department of Health.
Gaming festival organisers said they recognised the decision to cancel the event, due to take place from April 10 to 13, would be disappointing for visitors but that their priority was to ensure the welfare of everyone involved in the show.
To keep up-to-date with the latest updates regarding Coronavirus join out Facebook group here
A spokesman said: "It’s with incredible disappointment and reluctance that we have to update you that Insomnia66 this April 10th-13th at the NEC, is cancelled due to COVID-19.
"We appreciate this will come as a major disappointment but we want to ensure our priority is the welfare of our guests, exhibitors, staff, volunteers and suppliers; as well as producing a show of the high standard you have come to expect and enjoy."
Ticket holders will be contacted directly by See Tickets regarding refunds as soon as possible.
He added: "A lot of work from our very dedicated Insomnia family has gone into making this event happen and this outcome is far from what we envisaged for Insomnia66.
"To make the best of this difficult situation, we will be dedicating time to working with our partners and exhibitors to make our summer show better than ever. In the interim, your feedback on ideas to keep our community spirit alive, is very greatly appreciated."
Summer’s Insomnia67 is due to return to the NEC from August 28 to 31.
Last year's event - Insomnia65 - featured UK first plays of the latest games like Ghost Recon: Breakpoint and Just Dance 2020 as well as hands-on gameplay of Borderlands 3 and more. There was also the chance to meet internet sensations WillNE, Seapeekay, Dangthatsalongname, Jacksucksatlife and more.
Tournaments including Insomnia Masters and Belong Arena Clash finals battled it out on the Esports stage whilst gamers enjoyed hanging out in the VR, Indie, Retro, Competitive and Battle Royale zones.


birminghammail--2020-03-14--'Reality' - Boss' honest transfer admission over £30m Wolves and Manchester United-linked whizzkid

Sean Dyche has warned Dwight McNeil ’ s admirers they will need a ‘ war chest ’ to tempt Burnley to the negotiating table – but accepted that he could well leave the club one day .
The 20-year-old is the rising star in Dyche ’ s team and has been linked with a £30million move to – among others - Wolves , Manchester United and Everton .
The winger was watched by Gareth Southgate in last weekend ’ s 1-1 draw at Turf Moor and is sure to be the subject of speculation again when the transfer window reopens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clarets won ’ t stand in anyone ’ s way , neither are they compelled to sell on any other than their own terms .
“ There ’ s a reality when players come in , particularly when we ’ ve developed them as lower-league players for less money or the likes of Dwight McNeil , ” Dyche told The Mirror .
“ At some point those players , not all of them , but some of them get to a point where the club will sell them .
“ Just by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go ‘ well , OK , what did we bring that player in for and what ’ s the offer ?
’ .
“ The difference is that offer is now stretched because we don ’ t actually need the money .
“ In the past , we always had to do certain things .
Now we don ’ t have to do them because we ’ re in a very strong financial position .
“ Keano [ Michael Keane ] went and it was a case of we can ’ t refuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That ’ s the difference , although the basic principle is still there .
“ If a player does so , so well and enough big interest comes from the top of the market , the chances are at some point that situation breaks and that player goes .
“ It ’ s part of the reality of the club , we ’ re not giants in the Premier League .
“ We can ’ t pay the wages that other clubs pay and some of the numbers that these players get are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what we can pay .
“ When that moment comes , I have to factor that in a little bit as well and say ‘ Look , this is a chance for them to go and get whatever that may be and we can ’ t compete with that ’ .
“ The business comes first , of course , but there ’ s also a bit of moral fibre there and we can ’ t stop a player from having that opportunity .
“ But I can assure you it will only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The numbers now in our world are high and we ’ re in a position to say no , we don ’ t need to sell anyone .
“ So if anyone wants to come for any of our players , they had better have a war chest.
” Wolves were credited with an interest in the England Under 21 last November although Nuno Espirito Santo clearly had other priorities in the last window .
McNeil is under contract at Burnley until 2023 , with another year 's option .

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Sean Dyche has warned Dwight McNeil’s admirers they will need a ‘war chest’ to tempt Burnley to the negotiating table – but accepted that he could well leave the club one day.
The 20-year-old is the rising star in Dyche’s team and has been linked with a £30million move to – among others - Wolves , Manchester United and Everton.
The winger was watched by Gareth Southgate in last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Turf Moor and is sure to be the subject of speculation again when the transfer window reopens.
But Dyche maintains that while the Clarets won’t stand in anyone’s way, neither are they compelled to sell on any other than their own terms.
“There’s a reality when players come in, particularly when we’ve developed them as lower-league players for less money or the likes of Dwight McNeil,” Dyche told The Mirror .
“At some point those players, not all of them, but some of them get to a point where the club will sell them.
“Just by the natural economics they’re going to go ‘well, OK, what did we bring that player in for and what’s the offer?’.
“The difference is that offer is now stretched because we don’t actually need the money.
“In the past, we always had to do certain things. Now we don’t have to do them because we’re in a very strong financial position.
“Keano [Michael Keane] went and it was a case of we can’t refuse that money. Now we can. That’s the difference, although the basic principle is still there.
“If a player does so, so well and enough big interest comes from the top of the market, the chances are at some point that situation breaks and that player goes.
“It’s part of the reality of the club, we’re not giants in the Premier League.
“We can’t pay the wages that other clubs pay and some of the numbers that these players get are astronomical. They’re miles above what we can pay.
“When that moment comes, I have to factor that in a little bit as well and say ‘Look, this is a chance for them to go and get whatever that may be and we can’t compete with that’.
“The business comes first, of course, but there’s also a bit of moral fibre there and we can’t stop a player from having that opportunity.
“But I can assure you it will only happen if the numbers are correct. The numbers now in our world are high and we’re in a position to say no, we don’t need to sell anyone.
“So if anyone wants to come for any of our players, they had better have a war chest.”
Wolves were credited with an interest in the England Under 21 last November although Nuno Espirito Santo clearly had other priorities in the last window.
McNeil is under contract at Burnley until 2023, with another year's option.


birminghammail--2020-03-14--Harry Potter studio tour closes amid coronavirus outbreak as Warner Bros issues statement

The widely-loved Harry Potter experience in Hertfordshire has closed amid coronavirus fears .
Warner Bros .
Studio Tour London - The Making Of Harry Potter is situated near Watford Junction rail station , and is hugely popular with Brummies .
Harry Potter Studios says in a statement : `` While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 ( coronavirus ) at Warner Bros .
Studio Tour London - The Making Of Harry Potter , out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of the health and wellbeing of our visitors , employees and community parties , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Studio Tour effective from 8pm on Monday , March 16 , 2020 . ''
The statement adds : `` We will continue to monitor the situation closely , please refer to our website for further updates on a date when we will reopen . ''
The statement continues : `` For any tickets booked up to and including April 3 , a full refund will be provided . ''
And the family-friendly attraction goes on to say members of its Visitor Services Team will contact affected customers .
If you have tickets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ member of the site 's staff within 72 hours of your intended visit date to arrange a refund .
The statement adds : `` If your booking was made using a gift ticket , these will be re-validated for 12 months from your visit date . ''
`` If you have purchased tickets or transportation packages via a third-party , contact them directly , '' the statement concludes .

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The widely-loved Harry Potter experience in Hertfordshire has closed amid coronavirus fears.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making Of Harry Potter is situated near Watford Junction rail station, and is hugely popular with Brummies.
Harry Potter Studios says in a statement: "While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making Of Harry Potter, out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of the health and wellbeing of our visitors, employees and community parties, we have made the decision to temporarily close the Studio Tour effective from 8pm on Monday, March 16, 2020."
The statement adds: "We will continue to monitor the situation closely, please refer to our website for further updates on a date when we will reopen."
The statement continues: "For any tickets booked up to and including April 3, a full refund will be provided."
And the family-friendly attraction goes on to say members of its Visitor Services Team will contact affected customers.
If you have tickets booked, you should hear from a member of the site's staff within 72 hours of your intended visit date to arrange a refund.
The statement adds: "If your booking was made using a gift ticket, these will be re-validated for 12 months from your visit date."
"If you have purchased tickets or transportation packages via a third-party, contact them directly," the statement concludes.


birminghammail--2020-03-14--TUI cancel holidays to Spain as coronavirus fears throw Birmingham Airport passenger plans into chao

TUI cancel holidays to Spain as coronavirus fears throw Birmingham Airport passenger plans into chaos

TUI has cancelled Spain holidays between 14 and 16 March as the coronavirus crisis deepens across the world .
The holiday firm says they will contact customers affected , telling customers on its website : “ Our holiday programme is experiencing some disruption due to local authority restrictions and Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) advice .
“ We are proactively contacting all customers whose holidays are affected to discuss their options , including an amendment or full refund.
” In a statement , the firm - which operates from Birmingham Airport - adds : “ Following local measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including closing some hotel facilities and the local bars , restaurants and beaches we have made the difficult decision to cancel holidays due to travel between 14 and 16 March .
“ Although there is currently no advice from the UK Government against travelling to Spain it would not be the holiday experience we would want for our customers . ''
TUI conclude in their statement : “ We will proactively contact all customers due to travel to Alicante between 14 March and 16 March to offer alternative holiday options or offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel between 17 March and 23 March will be contacted about their holiday on Monday 16 March .
”

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TUI has cancelled Spain holidays between 14 and 16 March as the coronavirus crisis deepens across the world.
The holiday firm says they will contact customers affected, telling customers on its website: “Our holiday programme is experiencing some disruption due to local authority restrictions and Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advice.
“We are proactively contacting all customers whose holidays are affected to discuss their options, including an amendment or full refund.”
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In a statement, the firm - which operates from Birmingham Airport - adds: “Following local measures put in place by the Spanish Authorities, including closing some hotel facilities and the local bars, restaurants and beaches we have made the difficult decision to cancel holidays due to travel between 14 and 16 March.
“Although there is currently no advice from the UK Government against travelling to Spain it would not be the holiday experience we would want for our customers."
TUI conclude in their statement: “We will proactively contact all customers due to travel to Alicante between 14 March and 16 March to offer alternative holiday options or offer a full-refund. Any customers due to travel between 17 March and 23 March will be contacted about their holiday on Monday 16 March.”


birminghammail--2020-03-14--Jet2 issues statement after flights to Spain cancelled and planes forced to turn back mid-air

Jet2 flights headed for Spain are reportedly returning to the UK after being turned around ‘ in mid air ’ .
The statement from Jet2 said : `` In response to local measures introduced throughout Spain to prevent the spread of Covid-19 , including the closure of bars , restaurants , shops , and activities including any water sports , we have taken the decision to cancel all flights to Mainland Spain , the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands with immediate effect . ''
Flight Radar 24 reports that at the moment , other airlines are still flying into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adds : `` We know these local measures will have a significant impact on our customers ' holidays , which is why we have taken this decision .
`` We are contacting our customers who are currently in these destinations , and who are due to travel , to advise them of their options , so we urge customers not to call us .
`` This is a fast-moving and complex situation and we are reviewing our programme as a matter of urgency , so that we can fly customers back to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our customers is our number one priority , and we would like to thank our customers for their understanding . ''
Planes flying from Birmingham to Malaga , Leeds to Alicante , Glasgow to Alicante , East Midlands to Alicante and Manchester to Alicante are all allegedly being forced to return to England .

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Jet2 flights headed for Spain are reportedly returning to the UK after being turned around ‘in mid air’.
The statement from Jet2 said: "In response to local measures introduced throughout Spain to prevent the spread of Covid-19, including the closure of bars, restaurants, shops, and activities including any water sports, we have taken the decision to cancel all flights to Mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands with immediate effect."
Flight Radar 24 reports that at the moment, other airlines are still flying into the country.
The statement from Jet2 adds: "We know these local measures will have a significant impact on our customers' holidays, which is why we have taken this decision.
"We are contacting our customers who are currently in these destinations, and who are due to travel, to advise them of their options, so we urge customers not to call us.
"This is a fast-moving and complex situation and we are reviewing our programme as a matter of urgency, so that we can fly customers back to the UK.
"The health and safety of our customers is our number one priority, and we would like to thank our customers for their understanding."
Planes flying from Birmingham to Malaga, Leeds to Alicante, Glasgow to Alicante, East Midlands to Alicante and Manchester to Alicante are all allegedly being forced to return to England.


birminghammail--2020-03-14--Aston Villa are set to make this Suso decision - reports

Jesus Garcia Pitarch is set to leave Aston Villa , regardless of whether they escape relegation , according to reports .
The Villa sporting director has been with the club since 2018 , when Dean Smith was appointed as Steve Bruce ’ s replacement .
He is the man behind much of Villa ’ s recruitment , which has been ramped up since their promotion last season .
The summer saw 12 players arrive , as Smith went about building a squad capable of thriving in the Premier League .
In January , Suso helped bring in another four players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drinkwater , Mbwana Samatta and Borja Baston all signing .
Reports in the national press have suggested that Villa ’ s recent run , which has seen them lose five games in a row in all competitions , has put Smith and Suso ’ s position under threat .
It was claimed that a heavy defeat vs Chelsea , could have seen Smith ’ s job come under increased scrutiny .
However , the Premier League has now taken the unprecedented step of suspending fixtures in a bid to contain the coronavirus outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game is scheduled to be vs Wolves on April 4 – although there are fears the suspension could go well into the summer .
The Athletic report that the break could act as a reprieve for Smith , but irrespective of whether Villa beat the drop , a change in the sporting director position could be made .

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Jesus Garcia Pitarch is set to leave Aston Villa, regardless of whether they escape relegation, according to reports.
The Villa sporting director has been with the club since 2018, when Dean Smith was appointed as Steve Bruce’s replacement.
He is the man behind much of Villa’s recruitment, which has been ramped up since their promotion last season.
The summer saw 12 players arrive, as Smith went about building a squad capable of thriving in the Premier League.
In January, Suso helped bring in another four players, - with Pepe Reina, Danny Drinkwater, Mbwana Samatta and Borja Baston all signing.
Reports in the national press have suggested that Villa’s recent run, which has seen them lose five games in a row in all competitions, has put Smith and Suso’s position under threat.
It was claimed that a heavy defeat vs Chelsea, could have seen Smith’s job come under increased scrutiny.
However, the Premier League has now taken the unprecedented step of suspending fixtures in a bid to contain the coronavirus outbreak.
It means Villa’s next game is scheduled to be vs Wolves on April 4 – although there are fears the suspension could go well into the summer.
The Athletic report that the break could act as a reprieve for Smith, but irrespective of whether Villa beat the drop, a change in the sporting director position could be made.


birminghammail--2020-03-14--Agent warns Aston Villa are facing a contract 'nightmare' after coronavirus decision

Aston Villa could face the prospect of playing games well into the summer , with the Premier League announcing a suspension of all fixtures .
On Friday , all elite football in England was put on hold , with games not set to resume until the weekend of April 4 , at the earliest .
That could yet be put back , with experts believing the coronavirus contagion could continue to affect the country for months to come .
Villa have ten league games remaining , with Dean Smith ’ s side knowing they will need results to move away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been suggestions that the league could be voided or prematurely ended , with all options still on the table .
The most likely scenario at this point looks to be games running into the summer , in order for all competitions to be completed in their entirety .
However , one additional concern for clubs up and down the land is how it could impact players both on-loan , and those coming to the end of their deals .
The majority of contracts run up until June 30 , so if games go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a logistical ‘ nightmare ’ for clubs according to agents .
Our colleagues at Football.London have spoken to a number of agents who have attempted to outline what could happen on July 1 .
`` From a straight contractual perspective , away from loans , if a player 's contract expires on 30th June , I ca n't see anything being enforceable to make him stay beyond that , '' one representative said .
`` I ca n't see that anything could legally override players from saying ' I 'm not staying beyond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying 'We do n't want this guy after 30th June . '
'' Villa currently have two loanees in and around the starting XI with Pepe Reina starting in goal and Danny Drinkwater one of Smith ’ s midfield options .
Drinkwater ’ s future is already in doubt after a training ground incident saw the Chelsea man sent home from Bodymoor Heath earlier this week .
According to the agents quoted , should they want to , Villa will be able to extend these temporary deals to ensure they can continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is players coming to the end of their deal where complications lie .
Keinan Davis and Borja Baston , both have contracts ending in the summer .
That likely means that unless a contract extension can be agreed between both parties , they will be unattached by the time the season finally ends .
Should the drastic decision of the league being void , it is believed that all loan deals would be terminated with immediate effect .

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Aston Villa could face the prospect of playing games well into the summer, with the Premier League announcing a suspension of all fixtures.
On Friday, all elite football in England was put on hold, with games not set to resume until the weekend of April 4, at the earliest.
That could yet be put back, with experts believing the coronavirus contagion could continue to affect the country for months to come.
Villa have ten league games remaining, with Dean Smith’s side knowing they will need results to move away from the bottom three.
There have been suggestions that the league could be voided or prematurely ended, with all options still on the table.
The most likely scenario at this point looks to be games running into the summer, in order for all competitions to be completed in their entirety.
However, one additional concern for clubs up and down the land is how it could impact players both on-loan, and those coming to the end of their deals.
The majority of contracts run up until June 30, so if games go on past that date it could cause a logistical ‘nightmare’ for clubs according to agents.
Our colleagues at Football.London have spoken to a number of agents who have attempted to outline what could happen on July 1.
"From a straight contractual perspective, away from loans, if a player's contract expires on 30th June, I can't see anything being enforceable to make him stay beyond that," one representative said.
"I can't see that anything could legally override players from saying 'I'm not staying beyond 30th June.' Or clubs from saying 'We don't want this guy after 30th June.'"
Villa currently have two loanees in and around the starting XI with Pepe Reina starting in goal and Danny Drinkwater one of Smith’s midfield options.
(Image: Getty Images)
Drinkwater’s future is already in doubt after a training ground incident saw the Chelsea man sent home from Bodymoor Heath earlier this week.
According to the agents quoted, should they want to, Villa will be able to extend these temporary deals to ensure they can continue to ply their trade for the club.
It is players coming to the end of their deal where complications lie. Keinan Davis and Borja Baston, both have contracts ending in the summer.
That likely means that unless a contract extension can be agreed between both parties, they will be unattached by the time the season finally ends.
Should the drastic decision of the league being void, it is believed that all loan deals would be terminated with immediate effect.