birminghammail--2020-05-21--Revealed: how many Covid and untested hospital patients sent to city care homes

Care homes took in at least 133 Covid-positive patients from city hospitals during the first weeks of the pandemic - and dozens more who were not tested at all , we can reveal today .
The influx of patients into care homes full of vulnerable , elderly residents came as local hospitals battled to empty beds to prepare for a much feared surge in critical cases needing intensive or acute care .
For the first time , we can reveal the high levels of movement of untested and Covid-positive people between hospitals and care homes in Birmingham during those challenging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : * 226 untested patients from University Hospitals Birmingham ( UHB ) - including the Queen Elizabeth , Heartlands , Good Hope and Solihull hospitals - were discharged to care homes in March and early April * 133 Covid-positive patients were discharged from UHB into care homes * 22 untested patients from Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust - including City and Sandwell hospitals - were also transferred into care homes .
It paints a disturbing picture of vulnerable patients with Covid-19 , or who had not been tested , being routinely transferred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This was done in line with government guidance to hospitals at the time , which was only amended on April 15 to ensure all discharged residents were tested .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock , speaking last week , said the government had thrown a `` protective ring '' around care homes `` from the start . ''
He has since defended the government 's record on the issue amid a barrage of criticism from care home providers and political opponents .
But our findings are at odds with claims by Environment Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street briefing on Tuesday that there may have been `` some , a small number of instances '' of hospitals not testing asymptomatic patients on discharge into care homes .
City Labour MP and campaigner on the issue , Jack Dromey ( Erdington ) , said today : `` Health Secretary Matt Hancock says the government threw a protective arm around care homes .
`` Now the truth is known - that testing failed , and scores of people with Covid symptoms or without tests were discharged from hospitals into care homes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearly put at risk the lives of existing residents and staff . ''
West Midlands ' Conservative Mayor Andy Street ended up in the firing line about the issue when he appeared on GMB earlier this week , where he was grilled by Piers Morgan .
The TV host asked him repeatedly how many Covid-positive patients in the West Midlands had been discharged into care homes - a number the mayor was unable to supply at the time .
The issue has also been taken up by Labour leader Keir Starmer .
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he questioned Boris Johnson on the issue , pressing him on whether he agreed with a hospital doctor who had said that government policy had “ seeded ” the epidemic in care homes by transferring Covid-19 patients from hospitals .
The PM said discharges into care settings went down in March and April and that testing had been done .
While MP Preet Gill , who represents Edgbaston , said she had spoken to care homes who told her they had been `` pressured to accept patients out of hospital known to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an ongoing crisis in our care homes , '' she said .
“ The government has been too slow in protecting people in care homes , too slow on testing and too slow on protective equipment . ''
She said she had written to the Health Secretary `` numerous times '' to raise concerns .
In Birmingham , 685 care home residents died between March 1 and May 1 - the equivalent of 76 a week .
Some 267 - about a third - of them were listed as victims of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of deaths among care home residents is hugely increased on this time last year , even after allowing for deaths due to coronavirus .
Between 13 March and 8 May , 39,404 people died in care homes in England and Wales .
What we know In response to our inquiries , we received the following data : Between the start of March and April 15 , a total of 226 untested patients who were asymptomatic ( no symptoms ) were discharged into community care homes .
In March and April , a total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were discharged into community care homes .
Of these , 130 had tested negative , 133 had tested positive .
Up until the end of April , the hospital had treated 3,264 patients with Covid-19 , and had discharged 2,034 Covid-19 positive patients .
The trust , which manages City and Sandwell hospitals , discharged 22 'asymptomatic ' patients ( those not displaying symptoms ) into care homes without first testing them between the start of March and April 15 .
The Trust 's chief executive , Toby Lewis , said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including to care homes , people we consider clinically fit to be discharged .
`` Until national guidance was issued in April , and until testing availability was improved regionally in mid-April , we were testing suspected COVID patients on admission and discharge .
`` Patients with no COVID symptoms , who were in non-COVID wards , were not tested prior to discharge .
`` Of the hundreds of Trust discharges each month , we are aware of 22 people who did not have COVID symptoms or tests discharged from non-COVID beds to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We are finishing a brief review of whether any have subsequently developed COVID in a care home .
This review is self-initiated and does not reflect any concern raised by others .
“ The Trust continues to work with care homes , alongside the local authorities and CCGs , and prioritises providing PPE and testing to both residents and staff .
`` We are discussing with registered managers in Care Homes what else we can do to assist , having reorganised community nursing to fit care home needs in early March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and free employee wellbeing offer to all staff in local Care Homes in early April 2020.
” In response to our inquiries , a Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said : “ This is an unprecedented global outbreak and the virus can sadly have a devastating effect on some of the most vulnerable people .
“ Through our comprehensive adult social care action plan , we have ensured millions of items of PPE are delivered to care homes and are using our increased testing capacity to test care home residents and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are also providing an extra £600 million for infection control measures in care homes on top of the £3.2 billion we have already given to local authorities to deal with COVID-19 pressures .
This includes £1.3 billion of additional funding to enhance the NHS discharge process .
“ This action has meant two thirds of England ’ s care homes have had no coronavirus outbreak.
” The spokesperson also pointed out there was a `` 40 % drop in NHS patients discharged into care homes in February to mid-April compared to January @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS is now testing all people leaving hospital , in advance of timely discharge to care home settings .
`` Where a patient needs to be isolated following discharge from hospital and a care home does not have the ability to do this , we have asked local authorities to secure appropriate accommodation for the remainder of the required isolation period . ''
How Government policy on testing and discharging patients to care homes changed February to April 15th : Official guidance stated : `` Negative tests are not required prior to transfers/admissions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice to hospitals and care homes , based in part on testing capacity available , was that tests would only be required for patients with symptoms .
March 17th : Plans designed to free up NHS capacity via `` rapid discharge into the community '' and reducing planned care were unveiled .
The Government accepted this would include patients `` recuperating from Covid-19 '' who wil require ongoing nursing or social care .
`` Timely discharge is important ... the NHS needs to discharge people in order to maintain capacity for acutely ill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , plans for wider community testing were withdrawn - a move that Mayor Andy Street has since referred to as `` a mistake '' .
He says with hindsight testing plans should have continued apace , in readiness for easing lockdown restrictions .
April 15th : The Department for Health and Social Care issued new guidance , called An Action Plan for Adult Social Care The action plan set out new advice on a range of issues affecting adult social care settings , including infection control and PPE .
The document also included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It stated : `` We are mindful that some care providers are concerned about being able to effectively isolate COVID-positive residents , and we are determined to make sure discharges into nursing or social care do not put residents currently in those settings at risk .
`` We can now confirm we will move to institute a policy of testing all residents prior to admission to care homes .
`` This will begin with all those being discharged from hospital and the NHS will have a responsibility for testing these specific patients , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a test result is still awaited , the patient will be discharged and , pending the result , isolated in the same way as a COVID-positive patient will be . ''
On the same date ( April 15 ) Birmingham city council announced additional funding for care homes as part of a £5 million support package - including the promise of `` one off payments '' to care homes who took hospital discharges .
A press release at the time said : `` Care homes facilitating admissions from hospitals that meet certain conditions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one-off additional payment . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Hundreds of untested and Covid-positive patients were sent out of city hospitals into care homes during the first weeks of the pandemic, we can exclusively reveal today.
Care homes took in at least 133 Covid-positive patients, while 248 patients who had not been tested were also discharged to care settings.
The influx of patients into care homes full of vulnerable, elderly residents came as local hospitals battled to empty beds to prepare for a much feared surge in critical cases needing intensive or acute care.
For the first time, we can reveal the high levels of movement of untested and Covid-positive people between hospitals and care homes in Birmingham during those challenging first weeks.
The shocking findings belie claims from a Government minister that there were "a small number of instances" like it, and challenge Health Secretary Matt Hancock's assertion that a 'protective ring' was thrown around care homes.
Around 76 residents of Birmingham care homes died every week between March 1 and May 1 - a third of them from coronavirus.
We can now reveal:
* 226 untested patients from University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB) - including the Queen Elizabeth, Heartlands, Good Hope and Solihull hospitals - were discharged to care homes in March and early April
* 133 Covid-positive patients were also discharged from UHB into care homes
* 22 untested patients from Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust - including City and Sandwell hospitals - were also transferred into care homes.
It paints a disturbing picture of vulnerable patients with Covid-19, or who had not been tested, being routinely transferred into care homes among ill fellow residents.
This was done in line with government guidance to hospitals at the time, which was only amended on April 15 to ensure all discharged residents were tested.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock, speaking last week, said the government had thrown a "protective ring" around care homes "from the start."
He has since defended the government's record on the issue amid a barrage of criticism from care home providers and political opponents.
Our findings are at odds with claims by Environment Secretary George Eustice, who told a Downing Street briefing on Tuesday that there may have been "some, a small number of instances" of hospitals not testing asymptomatic patients on discharge into care homes.
City Labour MP and campaigner on the issue, Jack Dromey (Erdington), said today: "Health Secretary Matt Hancock says the government threw a protective arm around care homes.
"Now the truth is known - that testing failed, and scores of people with Covid symptoms or without tests were discharged from hospitals into care homes.
"That is a monumental gamble that clearly put at risk the lives of existing residents and staff."
West Midlands' Conservative Mayor Andy Street ended up in the firing line about the issue when he appeared on GMB earlier this week, where he was grilled by Piers Morgan.
The TV host asked him repeatedly how many Covid-positive patients in the West Midlands had been discharged into care homes - a number the mayor was unable to supply at the time.
The issue has also been taken up by Labour leader Keir Starmer.
At Prime Minister's Questions last week, he questioned Boris Johnson on the issue, pressing him on whether he agreed with a hospital doctor who had said that government policy had “seeded” the epidemic in care homes by transferring Covid-19 patients from hospitals.
The PM said discharges into care settings went down in March and April and that testing had been done.
While MP Preet Gill, who represents Edgbaston, said she had spoken to care homes who told her they had been "pressured to accept patients out of hospital known to be infected with Covid-19".
“There is an ongoing crisis in our care homes," she said.
“The government has been too slow in protecting people in care homes, too slow on testing and too slow on protective equipment."
She said she had written to the Health Secretary "numerous times" to raise concerns.
In Birmingham, 685 care home residents died between March 1 and May 1 - the equivalent of 76 a week. Some 267 - about a third - of them were listed as victims of coronavirus.
Across the country, the number of deaths among care home residents is hugely increased on this time last year, even after allowing for deaths due to coronavirus.
Between 13 March and 8 May, 39,404 people died in care homes in England and Wales.
What we know
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust
In response to our inquiries, we received the following data:
Between the start of March and April 15, a total of 226 untested patients who were asymptomatic (no symptoms) were discharged into community care homes.
In March and April, a total of 263 patients who had been tested were discharged into community care homes.
Of these, 130 had tested negative, 133 had tested positive.
Up until the end of April, the hospital had treated 3,264 patients with Covid-19, and had discharged 2,034 Covid-19 positive patients.
(Image: PA)
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
The trust, which manages City and Sandwell hospitals, discharged 22 'asymptomatic' patients (those not displaying symptoms) into care homes without first testing them between the start of March and April 15.
The Trust's chief executive, Toby Lewis, said: “The Trust has only discharged home, including to care homes, people we consider clinically fit to be discharged.
"Until national guidance was issued in April, and until testing availability was improved regionally in mid-April, we were testing suspected COVID patients on admission and discharge.
"Patients with no COVID symptoms, who were in non-COVID wards, were not tested prior to discharge.
(Image: Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust)
"Of the hundreds of Trust discharges each month, we are aware of 22 people who did not have COVID symptoms or tests discharged from non-COVID beds to care homes in March and early April.
"We are finishing a brief review of whether any have subsequently developed COVID in a care home. This review is self-initiated and does not reflect any concern raised by others.
“The Trust continues to work with care homes, alongside the local authorities and CCGs, and prioritises providing PPE and testing to both residents and staff.
"We are discussing with registered managers in Care Homes what else we can do to assist, having reorganised community nursing to fit care home needs in early March 2020, and having extended our extensive and free employee wellbeing offer to all staff in local Care Homes in early April 2020.”
In response to our inquiries, a Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said:
“This is an unprecedented global outbreak and the virus can sadly have a devastating effect on some of the most vulnerable people.
“Through our comprehensive adult social care action plan, we have ensured millions of items of PPE are delivered to care homes and are using our increased testing capacity to test care home residents and staff, regardless of symptoms.
“We are also providing an extra £600 million for infection control measures in care homes on top of the £3.2 billion we have already given to local authorities to deal with COVID-19 pressures. This includes £1.3 billion of additional funding to enhance the NHS discharge process.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“This action has meant two thirds of England’s care homes have had no coronavirus outbreak.”
The spokesperson also pointed out there was a "40% drop in NHS patients discharged into care homes in February to mid-April compared to January."
They added: "The NHS is now testing all people leaving hospital, in advance of timely discharge to care home settings.
"Where a patient needs to be isolated following discharge from hospital and a care home does not have the ability to do this, we have asked local authorities to secure appropriate accommodation for the remainder of the required isolation period."
How Government policy on testing and discharging patients to care homes changed
February to April 15th: Official guidance stated: "Negative tests are not required prior to transfers/admissions into the care home." The advice to hospitals and care homes, based in part on testing capacity available, was that tests would only be required for patients with symptoms.
March 17th: Plans designed to free up NHS capacity via "rapid discharge into the community" and reducing planned care were unveiled. The Government accepted this would include patients "recuperating from Covid-19" who will require ongoing nursing or social care.
"Timely discharge is important...the NHS needs to discharge people in order to maintain capacity for acutely ill patients."
At the same time, plans for wider community testing were withdrawn - a move that Mayor Andy Street has since referred to as "a mistake". He says with hindsight testing plans should have continued apace, in readiness for easing lockdown restrictions.
April 15th: The Department for Health and Social Care issued new guidance, called An Action Plan for Adult Social Care
The action plan set out new advice on a range of issues affecting adult social care settings, including infection control and PPE.
The document also included a change in guidance around discharges.
It stated: "We are mindful that some care providers are concerned about being able to effectively isolate COVID-positive residents, and we are determined to make sure discharges into nursing or social care do not put residents currently in those settings at risk.
"We can now confirm we will move to institute a policy of testing all residents prior to admission to care homes.
"This will begin with all those being discharged from hospital and the NHS will have a responsibility for testing these specific patients, in advance of timely discharge. Where a test result is still awaited, the patient will be discharged and, pending the result, isolated in the same way as a COVID-positive patient will be."
On the same date (April 15) Birmingham city council announced additional funding for care homes as part of a £5 million support package - including the promise of "one off payments" to care homes who took hospital discharges.
A press release at the time said: "Care homes facilitating admissions from hospitals that meet certain conditions around referral and assessment will receive a one-off additional payment."


birminghammail--2020-05-21--New instant  COVID-19 test being trialled

A coronavirus test that can give results in 20 minutes is being trialled in the UK , Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said .
The new swab test does not need to be sent to a lab and will show if someone has the virus , reports the Metro .
The announcement came during today 's press briefing with Mr Hancock also saying more than 10 million antibody tests would begin to be rolled out from next week .
He added the new swab test , developed by OptiGene , `` is interesting to us because it is so fast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the spot , typically within around 20 minutes .
It ’ s already proved effective in early trials and we want to find now if it will be effective on a larger scale.
’ '' If it works , we 'll roll it out as soon as we can . ''
Mr Hancock went on to say his department is working with ‘ many top names ’ to help get a ‘ rapid turnaround ’ on coronavirus results , including Oxford Namapor , Enchromomcis and DNANudge .
He added : ‘ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ building blocks , we ’ ve developed the tests , we ’ ve built the test centres and lab capacity , we ’ ve created the home testing kits .
`` All this gives us clarity and certainty .
We hit the 100,000 tests on time when we said we would , but we are always striving to go further.
’ '' The swab tests will initially be trialled in Hampshire in A & E departments , GP testing hubs as well as care homes .
The trial will test up to 4000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six weeks .
The Health Secretary made clear there could be risks .
`` Now , it ’ s really important to be clear about this .
Working with innovative science always has its risks .
Like all R & D , lots of projects don ’ t come off .
`` And just like , for instance , vaccines , where we don ’ t know if we ’ ll ever get one , but I ’ m prepared to back innovative developments even if they might never happen .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I think it ’ s worth it especially in these circumstances , to back things before you know for sure if they ’ re going to work , and I make no apologies for that . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A coronavirus test that can give results in 20 minutes is being trialled in the UK, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said.
The new swab test does not need to be sent to a lab and will show if someone has the virus, reports the Metro.
The announcement came during today's press briefing with Mr Hancock also saying more than 10 million antibody tests would begin to be rolled out from next week.
He added the new swab test, developed by OptiGene, "is interesting to us because it is so fast''.
"You get the result on the spot, typically within around 20 minutes. It’s already proved effective in early trials and we want to find now if it will be effective on a larger scale.’
"If it works, we'll roll it out as soon as we can."
Mr Hancock went on to say his department is working with ‘many top names’ to help get a ‘rapid turnaround’ on coronavirus results, including Oxford Namapor, Enchromomcis and DNANudge.
He added: ‘We’ve already put in place the building blocks, we’ve developed the tests, we’ve built the test centres and lab capacity, we’ve created the home testing kits.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"All this gives us clarity and certainty. We hit the 100,000 tests on time when we said we would, but we are always striving to go further.’"
The swab tests will initially be trialled in Hampshire in A&E departments, GP testing hubs as well as care homes. The trial will test up to 4000 people and is set to run for six weeks.
The Health Secretary made clear there could be risks.
"Now, it’s really important to be clear about this. Working with innovative science always has its risks. Like all R&D, lots of projects don’t come off.
"And just like, for instance, vaccines, where we don’t know if we’ll ever get one, but I’m prepared to back innovative developments even if they might never happen.
"I think it’s worth it, and I think it’s worth it especially in these circumstances, to back things before you know for sure if they’re going to work, and I make no apologies for that."


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Mountain bikers taken to hospital after separate crashes at same beauty spot

Two mountain bikers were taken to hospital after crashing on the same trail - in completely separate accidents .
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called twice this morning - Thursday , May 21 - to the Sherbrook Trail on Cannock Chase .
In the first incident , at around 9.40am , a caller reported a middle-aged rider had gone over his handlebars after his bike came to a sudden stop , leaving him unconcious .
An ambulance and a paramedic officer in a 4x4 vehicle was sent to the scene .
After treatment at the scene of the crash , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Royal Stoke University Hospital .
Then , just two minutes after finishing that emergency , the paramedic officer received a call to a second case , where - again - a middle-aged man had fallen while on the Sherbrook Trail .
This time , the caller said that the rider had come off while going down a slope but had landed heavily .
After assessment took him to the ambulance before the rider was taken to County Hospital , Stafford .
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said : “ These were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great weather , and the easing of lockdown , it is fantastic that we are all able to enjoy areas such as Cannock Chase .
“ However , over the Bank Holiday , we would urge everyone to remember the need to keep socially distanced at all times and only meet up in the way the guidance sets out .
“ This virus is far from over ; we have to remember that hundreds of people are still dying every day .
Yes , enjoy the wonderful area we live in , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible to reduce the risk of spreading this cruel virus .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Two mountain bikers were taken to hospital after crashing on the same trail - in completely separate accidents.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called twice this morning - Thursday, May 21 - to the Sherbrook Trail on Cannock Chase.
In the first incident, at around 9.40am, a caller reported a middle-aged rider had gone over his handlebars after his bike came to a sudden stop, leaving him unconcious .
An ambulance and a paramedic officer in a 4x4 vehicle was sent to the scene.
After treatment at the scene of the crash, he was taken in an ambulance to the Royal Stoke University Hospital.
Then, just two minutes after finishing that emergency, the paramedic officer received a call to a second case, where - again - a middle-aged man had fallen while on the Sherbrook Trail.
This time, the caller said that the rider had come off while going down a slope but had landed heavily.
After assessment took him to the ambulance before the rider was taken to County Hospital, Stafford.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “These were clearly very unfortunate accidents. Given the great weather, and the easing of lockdown, it is fantastic that we are all able to enjoy areas such as Cannock Chase.
“However, over the Bank Holiday, we would urge everyone to remember the need to keep socially distanced at all times and only meet up in the way the guidance sets out.
“This virus is far from over; we have to remember that hundreds of people are still dying every day. Yes, enjoy the wonderful area we live in, but please, make sure you do everything possible to reduce the risk of spreading this cruel virus.”


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Ed Woodward offers the Man Utd update every Wolves fan wanted to hear

Manchester United executive vice chairman Ed Woodward , has revealed they are optimistic that this season 's Europa League will be completed .
Wolverhampton Wanderers , along with United and Rangers , are the final British representatives in the competition , with all three in the final-16 , before football was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic .
There had been fears that with domestic leagues still up in the air , European competitions could be forfeited in order to ease what promises to be a hectic fixture schedule .
Wolves players and staff have admitted how keen they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the club embarking on their first European campaign for almost 40 years .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store And Woodward 's comments mean they will likely have a chance to continue their journey , with suggestions the remaining rounds could take place in August .
`` While it is too soon to know with any certainty if , or when , these measures can fully be relaxed , we are optimistic that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ playing football , '' Woodward told the MEN .
`` Our men ’ s first team has begun a phased return to training this week , with rigorous medical protocols in place to manage risks .
`` Subject to government and Premier League shareholder approval , including input from medical staff and players , we anticipate domestic games could restart again in June .
All indications from Uefa are that the culmination of the Europa League could be during August .
`` We remain in constant dialogue with the Premier League , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towards returning to play , while continuing to protect the health of our players , staff and the wider public .
`` While there are still many uncertainties to resolve , we are looking forward to Ole and the team returning to the pitch soon to defend the strong momentum that they achieved with their 11-game unbeaten run in the Premier League , Europa League and FA Cup immediately before the season was suspended in mid-March . ''
Woodward 's reveal comes just days after Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin spoke in similarly optimistic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a conclusion .
“ We have a concrete plan of finishing the European season , '' Ceferin told beIN SPORTS .
`` We have an idea but we have to wait for the executive committee of UEFA to confirm the dates .
I can say that the European season will be finished , if everything is as it is now , in August .
As things look now , I ’ m sure… that we can finish the European season and this means UEFA competition .
“ The national leagues are a separate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they want to proceed .
But as I said before , I think at least 80 per cent will finish the season .
“ For now , it looks as though the calendar will not be affected much , especially the calendar of UEFA competitions .
The calendar is very dense , so we don ’ t have much space to change things . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Manchester United executive vice chairman Ed Woodward, has revealed they are optimistic that this season's Europa League will be completed.
Wolverhampton Wanderers, along with United and Rangers, are the final British representatives in the competition, with all three in the final-16,before football was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
There had been fears that with domestic leagues still up in the air, European competitions could be forfeited in order to ease what promises to be a hectic fixture schedule.
Wolves players and staff have admitted how keen they are for the Europa League to resume, with the club embarking on their first European campaign for almost 40 years.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
And Woodward's comments mean they will likely have a chance to continue their journey, with suggestions the remaining rounds could take place in August.
"While it is too soon to know with any certainty if, or when, these measures can fully be relaxed, we are optimistic that it will soon be possible to resume playing football," Woodward told the MEN. "Our men’s first team has begun a phased return to training this week, with rigorous medical protocols in place to manage risks.
"Subject to government and Premier League shareholder approval, including input from medical staff and players, we anticipate domestic games could restart again in June. All indications from Uefa are that the culmination of the Europa League could be during August.
"We remain in constant dialogue with the Premier League, the FA and Uefa about the next steps towards returning to play, while continuing to protect the health of our players, staff and the wider public.
"While there are still many uncertainties to resolve, we are looking forward to Ole and the team returning to the pitch soon to defend the strong momentum that they achieved with their 11-game unbeaten run in the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup immediately before the season was suspended in mid-March."
Woodward's reveal comes just days after Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin spoke in similarly optimistic terms about this year's tournament reaching a conclusion.
“We have a concrete plan of finishing the European season," Ceferin told beIN SPORTS.
"We have an idea but we have to wait for the executive committee of UEFA to confirm the dates. I can say that the European season will be finished, if everything is as it is now, in August. As things look now, I’m sure… that we can finish the European season and this means UEFA competition.
“The national leagues are a separate thing and they will decide separately how they want to proceed. But as I said before, I think at least 80 per cent will finish the season.
“For now, it looks as though the calendar will not be affected much, especially the calendar of UEFA competitions. The calendar is very dense, so we don’t have much space to change things."


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Citizen Khan star Adil Ray's message on celebrating Eid 'at difficult time'

Citizen Khan star Adil Ray has delivered a special message to families preparing to take part in Eid al-Fitr .
To deliver the message , Adil joined other Muslim stars including cricketer Saqlain Mushtaq , actress Armeena Khan , Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain and top lawyer Nazir Afzal , the former Chief Crown Prosecutor for NW England and former Chief Executive of the country ’ s Police & Crime Commissioners .
The video comes as worshippers near the end of Ramadan , the holy month of daily fasting , and prepare for the festivities of Eid al-Fitr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Special Eid Message , the stars unite to say the community must continue to work together to fight the coronavirus pandemic by ensuring people spend Eid only with their immediate families at home .
They repeat the advice that it 's not permitted to gather in large groups in mosques and parks - and urge people to carry on sticking to the Government 's social distancing guidelines .
Posting the video on Twitter , Adil said : `` As many Muslims look forward to celebrating Eid at this difficult time , a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We would be grateful if the wider community would support us and retweet . ''
He concludes the recording with the heartwarming words that staying home , saving lives and considering others would be a `` wonderful Eid gift '' to give to others this year .
Ray is best known as the star of the BBC1 sitcom Citizen Khan , which he created and co-writes .
Set in the Sparkhill area of Birmingham , it centres on the life of a fictional community leader and his family .
A keen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ star grew up in Yardley Wood , Birmingham with his Kenyan-born mother Nargis , who came to Britain in the 1960s and married a labourer from Pakistan .
Identifying as `` as a mix of Pakistani , African , Muslim and Brummie '' , Adil traced his roots in the BBC 's celebrity family tree show Who Do You Think You Are ?
`` I feel lucky that Kenya , Uganda , Pakistan and England are all of my house , '' Ray said during his emotional journey into the past on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reminder that you really don ’ t know who you are until you find out what you were . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Join the Secret Elves to get first access to our exclusive reviews of the must-have products this year
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Join the Secret Elves to get first access to our exclusive reviews of the must-have products this year
Citizen Khan star Adil Ray has delivered a special message to families preparing to take part in Eid al-Fitr.
To deliver the message, Adil joined other Muslim stars including cricketer Saqlain Mushtaq, actress Armeena Khan, Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain and top lawyer Nazir Afzal, the former Chief Crown Prosecutor for NW England and former Chief Executive of the country’s Police & Crime Commissioners.
The video comes as worshippers near the end of Ramadan, the holy month of daily fasting, and prepare for the festivities of Eid al-Fitr.
In the clip, titled A Special Eid Message, the stars unite to say the community must continue to work together to fight the coronavirus pandemic by ensuring people spend Eid only with their immediate families at home.
They repeat the advice that it's not permitted to gather in large groups in mosques and parks - and urge people to carry on sticking to the Government's social distancing guidelines.
Posting the video on Twitter, Adil said: "As many Muslims look forward to celebrating Eid at this difficult time, a few of us wanted to record this message.
"We would be grateful if the wider community would support us and retweet."
He concludes the recording with the heartwarming words that staying home, saving lives and considering others would be a "wonderful Eid gift" to give to others this year.
Ray is best known as the star of the BBC1 sitcom Citizen Khan, which he created and co-writes.
Set in the Sparkhill area of Birmingham, it centres on the life of a fictional community leader and his family.
A keen cricketer and Aston Villa fan, the star grew up in Yardley Wood, Birmingham with his Kenyan-born mother Nargis, who came to Britain in the 1960s and married a labourer from Pakistan.
Identifying as "as a mix of Pakistani, African, Muslim and Brummie", Adil traced his roots in the BBC's celebrity family tree show Who Do You Think You Are?
"I feel lucky that Kenya, Uganda, Pakistan and England are all of my house," Ray said during his emotional journey into the past on the genealogy show.
"It’s a reminder that you really don’t know who you are until you find out what you were."


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Woman sought 12 months after pensioner attacked at cash machine

A woman is still being sought by police after a pensioner was attacked as she withdrew cash from a ATM @ @ @ @ @ a year ago .
West Midlands Police said they want to speak to Bianca Haralampie @ @ @ @ @ on the elderly woman at a cash machine in High Street on May 20 , @ @ @ @ @ appeal shortly after the incident but are still yet to located Ms Haralampie , it @ @ @ @ @ May 21 , 2020 ) In an online appeal , the spokesman urged anyone with @ @ @ @ @ by calling 101 .
They said : `` We are still appealing to trace Bianca @ @ @ @ @ speak to her in connection with an assault on a pensioner as she withdrew cash @ @ @ @ @ Rowley Regis last year .
`` If you have any info , please contact us @ @ @ @ @ 20SW/119389T/19 . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
A woman is still being sought by police after a pensioner was attacked as she withdrew cash from a ATM in Rowley Regis more than a year ago.
West Midlands Police said they want to speak to Bianca Haralampie in connection with the assault on the elderly woman at a cash machine in High Street on May 20, 2019.
Police posted an appeal shortly after the incident but are still yet to located Ms Haralampie, it has been revealed today (May 21, 2020)
In an online appeal, the spokesman urged anyone with information to get in contact by calling 101.
They said: "We are still appealing to trace Bianca Haralampie. We want to speak to her in connection with an assault on a pensioner as she withdrew cash from an ATM machine in Rowley Regis last year.
"If you have any info, please contact us via Live Chat, quoting 20SW/119389T/19."


birminghammail--2020-05-21--President responds to claims Wolves have 'agreement' with Palhinha

Sporting president Frederico Varandas has categorically denied Wolverhampton Wanderers have reached an agreement to sign midfielder Joao Palhinha .
The 24-year-old has spent the past two seasons on loan with Sporting 's Primeira Liga rivals Braga and played against Wolves twice in the Europa League this term .
Palhinha was instrumental in Braga 's 1-0 win over Wolves at Molineux in September , while he played in the 3-3 draw between the two clubs at the Municipal Stadium in November .
Nuno Espirito Santo has reportedly been keeping a keen eye on Palhinha and , according to reports in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sport Witness ) , Wolves have reached an 'agreement in principle ' to sign him for €15million once the transfer window opens .
However , Varandas has refuted those claims and insists there 's been no contact between the two clubs over Palhinha .
Speaking to Canal 11 earlier this week , Varandas said : `` This is completely false .
Nothing .
One talks , but let me finish and say that a lot of the investment made in the academy was to retain this talent . ''
If Palhinha does join @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Nuno 's squad to have been developed at Sporting 's world-renowned academy in Lisbon .
Rui Patricio , Joao Moutinho , Daniel Podence and Ruben Vinagre all spent time on Sporting 's books - and Palhinha joined their academy in 2012 .
He quickly moved through the ranks but , as of now , he 's only made 16 appearances for their first team .
His development has continued with a series of loans , the last of which has been with Braga .
Palhinha has been a regular pick during his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club qualify for the Europa League last season .
He 's scored three times in 29 appearances this season , including the winner at Benfica in February .
Palhinha is perhaps the type of midfielder Wolves do n't have .
Ruben Neves and Moutinho are both capable of dictating games , while the former is also partial to producing a spectacular strike every now and then , whereas Palhinha is more of a destructive midfield player .
`` Palhinha has had two very good seasons with Braga , '' Sporting supporter Nuno Valinhas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong defensive midfielder who is very good in ball recoveries and positional play .
`` He 's managed to get a few goals this season too .
He 's better than any of our ( Sporting ) midfield options but he never really got his chance . ''
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store What has Palhinha said ?
Palhinha offered a far from definitive answer when he was questioned on the subject last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of speculation and I do n't even know how my future will be , '' he told Spanish publication Estadio Deportivo .
`` The nearest future is waiting for this to return to normal .
When the season ends , I 'll see what happens . ''
Palhinha has also been linked with a transfer to West Ham , while reports on the continent suggest clubs in Spain and Germany are chasing him .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Wolverhampton Wanderers continue to be linked with a move for Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha.
The 25-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Braga, is understood to be a player of interest to Wolves as Nuno Espirito Santo bids to add quality to his squad in the transfer window.
Palhinha is believed to favour a move to the Premier League and reports in Portugal suggest Molineux is his likeliest destination.
Here's the lowdown on Palhinha:
Background
If Palhinha does join Wolves he will become the fifth member of Nuno's squad to have been developed at Sporting's world-renowned academy in Lisbon.
Rui Patricio, Joao Moutinho, Daniel Podence and Ruben Vinagre all spent time on Sporting's books - and Palhinha joined their academy in 2012.
He quickly moved through the ranks but, as of now, he's only made 16 appearances for their first team. His development has continued with a series of loans, the last of which has been with Braga.
Palhinha has been a regular pick during his two seasons with Braga and helped the club qualify for the Europa League in 2018/19. He scored three times in 38 appearances last season, including the winner at Benfica in February.
Playing style
Palhinha is perhaps the type of midfielder Wolves don't have. Ruben Neves and Moutinho are both capable of dictating games, while the former is also partial to producing a spectacular strike every now and then, whereas Palhinha is more of a destructive midfield player.
"Palhinha has had two very good seasons with Braga," Sporting supporter Nuno Valinhas tells us. "He is a strong defensive midfielder who is very good in ball recoveries and positional play.
"He's managed to get a few goals this season too. He's better than any of our (Sporting) midfield options but he never really got his chance."
Portuguese journalist Luis Cristovao adds: "He should be a starting XI player at Sporting. Sporting also needs money so it's the perfect circle. He wants to leave, Sporting needs money and he will be good business for the team that takes him.
"He is a very mature player. He was mostly a defensive player in the midfield, but I think he has made an evolution in these last two seasons under Ruben Amorim in Braga.
"He can play in a two-man midfield too, so he's not only a defensive player. I see Palhinha as a Premier League player and he has the qualities to play in that level.
"I really think that if he goes to Wolverhampton he can be a big surprise. He doesn't have a high level of expectation as a defensive midfielder in Braga, but I think he can be much more than that. He's a very good player in this market."
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
What has Palhinha said?
Palhinha offered a far from definitive answer when he was questioned on the subject earlier this year.
"There has been a lot of speculation and I don't even know how my future will be," he told Spanish publication Estadio Deportivo. "The nearest future is waiting for this to return to normal. When the season ends, I'll see what happens."
Palhinha has also been linked with a transfer to West Ham, while reports on the continent suggest clubs in Spain and Germany are chasing him.


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Woman 'purposefully' coughed on medics while being treated for Covid symptoms

A woman with potential coronavirus symptoms intentionally coughed on paramedics and police officers as they took her to hospital .
Nicola Tilstone has been jailed after pleading guilty to four counts of assaulting an emergency worker , following the 'appalling ' incident on April 9 .
Emergency services were called following reports of a woman 'staggering and banging on vehicles ' .
Ambulance staff were assisted by police officers to take Tilstone , 37 , to hospital with potential Covid-19 symptoms , due to a high temperature .
Whilst in the ambulance , Tilstone - of no fixed address - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to cough in the direction of staff but continued to do so 'purposefully ' .
Later , when arriving at the Royal Stoke University Hospital 's Covid ward , Tilstone coughed several times including at a paramedic who was attempting to treat her .
Tilstone pleaded guilty to four counts of assaulting an emergency worker , following the incident on King Street , Stoke-on-Trent , and was jailed yesterday ( May 20 ) at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court .
WMAS Chief Executive , Anthony Marsh , said : “ My staff are working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this dreadful pandemic .
We have been overwhelmed by the support and gratefulness of so many patients and their loved ones , which is why this case is so shocking .
“ We all know the dangers of this virus and the thought that someone would purposefully try and infect the very people there to help her is appalling .
“ I am delighted that the Court has shown everyone that such actions will not be tolerated.
” Staffordshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Simon Tweats said : “ The vast majority of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown period , even now as the government begins to ease restrictions .
Compliance with the regulations remains important , especially if we are to continue to locally drive down infection rates .
“ Unfortunately , there are a small minority that choose not to protect others and there have been several incidents where emergency services have been deliberately spat and coughed at in an attempt to infect them , or at least making emergency workers think so .
Not only is this dangerous from a health protection perspective it ’ s also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services are on the frontline and are working to save people ’ s lives ; often working in extremely challenging situations .
Rest assured we will not tolerate this sort of behaviour and those responsible will be arrested and brought to justice .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
A woman with potential coronavirus symptoms intentionally coughed on paramedics and police officers as they took her to hospital.
Nicola Tilstone has been jailed after pleading guilty to four counts of assaulting an emergency worker, following the 'appalling' incident on April 9.
Emergency services were called following reports of a woman 'staggering and banging on vehicles'.
Ambulance staff were assisted by police officers to take Tilstone, 37, to hospital with potential Covid-19 symptoms, due to a high temperature.
Whilst in the ambulance, Tilstone - of no fixed address - began to cough. She was advised not to cough in the direction of staff but continued to do so 'purposefully'.
Later, when arriving at the Royal Stoke University Hospital's Covid ward, Tilstone coughed several times including at a paramedic who was attempting to treat her.
Tilstone pleaded guilty to four counts of assaulting an emergency worker, following the incident on King Street, Stoke-on-Trent, and was jailed yesterday (May 20) at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
WMAS Chief Executive, Anthony Marsh, said: “My staff are working night and day to help people during this dreadful pandemic. We have been overwhelmed by the support and gratefulness of so many patients and their loved ones, which is why this case is so shocking.
“We all know the dangers of this virus and the thought that someone would purposefully try and infect the very people there to help her is appalling.
“I am delighted that the Court has shown everyone that such actions will not be tolerated.”
Staffordshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Simon Tweats said: “The vast majority of people across Staffordshire have been fantastic during the lockdown period, even now as the government begins to ease restrictions. Compliance with the regulations remains important, especially if we are to continue to locally drive down infection rates.
“Unfortunately, there are a small minority that choose not to protect others and there have been several incidents where emergency services have been deliberately spat and coughed at in an attempt to infect them, or at least making emergency workers think so. Not only is this dangerous from a health protection perspective it’s also down right disgusting behaviour.
“Emergency services are on the frontline and are working to save people’s lives; often working in extremely challenging situations. Rest assured we will not tolerate this sort of behaviour and those responsible will be arrested and brought to justice.”


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Here's what Robbie Savage asked at the Downing Street press conference

Former Blues star Robbie Savage put Health Secretary Matt Hancock on the spot , when he asked why the Government was allowing people to play tennis - but not football .
Posing a question at the daily Downing Street press conference , Mr Savage asked : `` It is mental health awareness week , and we all know how important all sport is s a contributor to achieving healthy minds and bodies .
`` Why therefore is it that ... tennis players , golfers and athletes are able to receive one on one coaching sessions , but young people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are currently not allowed to ? ''
Mr Savage , who played for Birmingham City from 2002 to 2005 , was asking a question in his role as a columnist for the Daily Mirror newspaper .
Mr Hancock told him : `` I get it .
I understand why it 's a problem .
`` Unfortnately these rules have to be in place amongst the population as a whole because we 've got to get a grip of this virus .
`` The more people follow the rules , the faster we 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the more we 're going to release social distancing rules . ''
But Mr Savage pressed again , asking why the rules are different for tennis and football .
Chris Whitty , the Government 's Chief Medical Office , replied : `` If it 's within their own family ... within the same household , a kickaround with football is fine . ''
Mr Savage was signed to Manchester United , but was released without ever making a first team appearance .
Mr Savage went on to play for Leicester City , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before winding up his career at Derby County .
He is now a sports pundit and presenter .
Mr Hancock also announced that Government has bought ten million tests that will allow people to learn whether they have had coronavirus .
Health and care workers , residents and patients will be first in line for testing .
The antibody tests reveal who has been infected in the past , even if they are now recovered .
Mr Hancock also revealed that around one in 20 people outside London have had the Covid-19 coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tests already carried out .
In London , around 17 % , one in six , have had the virus .
Healthcare companies Roche and Abbott are providing the anti-body tests .
Mr Hancock said : `` I can announce today that we have signed contracts to supply , in the coming months , over 10 million tests from Roche and Abbott .
`` From next week , we 'll begin rolling these out in a phased way .
first to health and care staff , patients and residents . ''
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't know whether having Covid-19 antibodies meant people were now immuned to the disease .
Shortly before the press conference , Downing Street announced a u-turn over the NHS surchage , a fee that many migrants who do not have indefinite leave to remain in the UK have to pay .
A Downing Street spokesman said : “ The PM has asked the Home Office and the Department for Health and Social Care to remove NHS and care workers from the NHS surcharge as soon as possible .
“ Work by officials is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the change and full details will be announced in the coming days . ''
Labout leader Keir Starmer had previously called for NHS and care workers to be removed from the surcharge .
The Department of Health said 36,042 people had died in hospitals , care homes and the wider community after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 5pm on Wednesday , up by 338 from 35,704 the day before .
In the 24-hour period up to 9am on Thursday , 128,340 tests were carried out or dispatched , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2,615 positive results .
Overall a total of 3,090,566 tests have been carried out , and 250,908 cases have been confirmed positive .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Former Blues star Robbie Savage put Health Secretary Matt Hancock on the spot, when he asked why the Government was allowing people to play tennis - but not football.
Posing a question at the daily Downing Street press conference, Mr Savage asked: "It is mental health awareness week, and we all know how important all sport is s a contributor to achieving healthy minds and bodies.
"Why therefore is it that ... tennis players, golfers and athletes are able to receive one on one coaching sessions, but young people who play the working class game of football are currently not allowed to?"
Mr Savage, who played for Birmingham City from 2002 to 2005, was asking a question in his role as a columnist for the Daily Mirror newspaper.
Mr Hancock told him: "I get it. I understand why it's a problem.
"Unfortnately these rules have to be in place amongst the population as a whole because we've got to get a grip of this virus.
"The more people follow the rules, the faster we'll get the number of new cases down and the more we're going to release social distancing rules."
But Mr Savage pressed again, asking why the rules are different for tennis and football.
Chris Whitty, the Government's Chief Medical Office, replied: "If it's within their own family ... within the same household, a kickaround with football is fine."
Mr Savage was signed to Manchester United, but was released without ever making a first team appearance. Mr Savage went on to play for Leicester City, Birmingham City, Blackburn Rovers and Brighton before winding up his career at Derby County. He is now a sports pundit and presenter.
Mr Hancock also announced that Government has bought ten million tests that will allow people to learn whether they have had coronavirus.
Health and care workers, residents and patients will be first in line for testing.
The antibody tests reveal who has been infected in the past, even if they are now recovered.
(Image: PA)
Mr Hancock also revealed that around one in 20 people outside London have had the Covid-19 coronavirus so far, based on the results of tests already carried out. In London, around 17%, one in six, have had the virus.
Healthcare companies Roche and Abbott are providing the anti-body tests.
Mr Hancock said: "I can announce today that we have signed contracts to supply, in the coming months, over 10 million tests from Roche and Abbott.
"From next week, we'll begin rolling these out in a phased way. first to health and care staff, patients and residents."
But he stressed that the Government still didn't know whether having Covid-19 antibodies meant people were now immuned to the disease.
Get email updates with the latest Politics news This newsletter will bring you a brief round-up of the best, most important or simply quirky stories that have been hitting the headlines over the past few days in the world of politics across Birmingham and the West Midlands. To subscribe click on the link, tick the politics box and enter your email address.
Shortly before the press conference, Downing Street announced a u-turn over the NHS surchage, a fee that many migrants who do not have indefinite leave to remain in the UK have to pay.
A Downing Street spokesman said: “The PM has asked the Home Office and the Department for Health and Social Care to remove NHS and care workers from the NHS surcharge as soon as possible.
“Work by officials is now under way on how to implement the change and full details will be announced in the coming days."
Labout leader Keir Starmer had previously called for NHS and care workers to be removed from the surcharge.
The Department of Health said 36,042 people had died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 5pm on Wednesday, up by 338 from 35,704 the day before.
In the 24-hour period up to 9am on Thursday, 128,340 tests were carried out or dispatched, with a total of 67,681 people tested with 2,615 positive results.
Overall a total of 3,090,566 tests have been carried out, and 250,908 cases have been confirmed positive.


birminghammail--2020-05-21--NHS fee for migrant healthcare workers dropped by Boris Johnson in climb-down

The controversial NHS migrant surcharge for health and care workers has been axed just 24 hours after the Prime Minister defended it .
Boris Johnson had faced calls to drop the levy after telling the House of Commons it would remain - including a roasting from former Conservative chairman Chris Patten who branded it `` immoral and monstrous , reports the Independent .
The Royal College of Nursing also criticised the charge saying that its members who had been born overseas would face working for a month in order to pay off the fee .
It was set to rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £470 for children in October .
Yesterday Mr Johnson had told MPs that the health charge was “ the right way forward ” .
At PMs questions on Wednesday , the PM made reference to the NHS staff who saved his life when he was battling Covid-19 .
But he said the charge raises £900 million a year for the NHS- a figure that would be hard to find elsewhere .
The charge had been criticised severely by senior Conservatives including public administration and constitutional affairs committee chairman William Wragg He said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generosity of spirit towards those who have done so much good ” .
Commenting on the U-turn , a Downing Street spokesman today said : “ The PM has asked the Home Office and the Department for Health and Social Care to remove NHS and care workers from the NHS surcharge as soon as possible .
“ Work by officials is now underway on how to implement the change and full details will be announced in the coming days .
“ As the PM said in the House of Commons , he has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ He been a personal beneficiary of carers from abroad and understands the difficulties faced by our amazing NHS staff .
“ The purpose of the NHS surcharge is to benefit the NHS , help to care for the sick and save lives .
NHS and care workers from abroad who are granted visas are doing this already by the fantastic contribution which they make.
” Labour leader Keir Starmer said the decision was a `` victory for common decency '' .
He said : `` Boris Johnson is right to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS charge for health professionals and care workers .
`` We can not clap our carers one day and then charge them to use our NHS the next . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
The controversial NHS migrant surcharge for health and care workers has been axed just 24 hours after the Prime Minister defended it.
Boris Johnson had faced calls to drop the levy after telling the House of Commons it would remain - including a roasting from former Conservative chairman Chris Patten who branded it "immoral and monstrous, reports the Independent.
The Royal College of Nursing also criticised the charge saying that its members who had been born overseas would face working for a month in order to pay off the fee.
It was set to rise from £400 to £624 for adults and £470 for children in October.
Yesterday Mr Johnson had told MPs that the health charge was “the right way forward”.
At PMs questions on Wednesday, the PM made reference to the NHS staff who saved his life when he was battling Covid-19.
But he said the charge raises £900 million a year for the NHS- a figure that would be hard to find elsewhere.
The charge had been criticised severely by senior Conservatives including public administration and constitutional affairs committee chairman William Wragg
He said: "now is the time for a generosity of spirit towards those who have done so much good”.
Commenting on the U-turn, a Downing Street spokesman today said: “The PM has asked the Home Office and the Department for Health and Social Care to remove NHS and care workers from the NHS surcharge as soon as possible.
“Work by officials is now underway on how to implement the change and full details will be announced in the coming days.
“As the PM said in the House of Commons, he has been thinking about this a great deal.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“He been a personal beneficiary of carers from abroad and understands the difficulties faced by our amazing NHS staff.
“The purpose of the NHS surcharge is to benefit the NHS, help to care for the sick and save lives. NHS and care workers from abroad who are granted visas are doing this already by the fantastic contribution which they make.”
Labour leader Keir Starmer said the decision was a "victory for common decency".
He said: "Boris Johnson is right to have u-turned and backed our proposal to remove the NHS charge for health professionals and care workers.
"We cannot clap our carers one day and then charge them to use our NHS the next."


birminghammail--2020-05-21--List of confirmed school reopening dates in Birmingham

Schools have been told to open up to more pupils from June 1 - but Birmingham City Council has warned it will simply be impossible for some of them .
The situation has resulted in a vociferous debate among parents , teachers , unions and politicians about if it is safe for children to go back with the Covid-19 pandemic still ongoing .
Headteachers have been given the flexibility by the city council to make their own decisions about reopening , which could see pupils from across Birmingham going back to their desks on different dates - unless parents choose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will be publishing a list of schools which have indicated when exactly they will be reopening .
The article will be updated as new information emerges .
Some have set provisional dates but said they were expecting the government to issue final guidance by May 28 .
Many schools have chosen to consult with parents about whether they plan to send their children back .
We will be trawling through school websites , letters and social media accounts to keep the list up to date , but we would also be grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents .
If your school is not on the list but you know when it is re-opening , please email newsdesk @ birminghamlive.co.uk We must stress that things can still change between now and June 1 which could prompt schools to amend their reopening plans .
As well as checking out our own list we would urge parents to keep tabs on their own school 's websites for any updates .
Birchfield Primary School , Aston - June 3 for Year 1 , June 8 for Reception , June 11 for Year 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Primary School , Rubery/Rednal - June 1 for Reception , June 2 for Year 1 and June 8 for Year 6 Dorrington Academy , Perry Barr - June 1 for Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 .
Mondays to Thursdays only Forestdale , Primary School , Frankley - June 1 for Year 6 , June 2 for Year 1 , June 4 for Reception , June 8 for Nursery Four Dwellings Primary Academy , Quinton - June 1 ( Provisional , TBC ) , no further details Four Oaks Primary School , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , June 15 for Year 1 , June 22 for Year 6 ( Provisional , TBC ) Green Meadow Primary School , Weoley Castle - June 1 for Reception , June 2 for Year 1 , June 8 for Year 6 ( Provisionally for Y6 , TBC ) Heathfield Primary School , Lozells - June 3 for Year 1 , June 8 for Reception , June 11 for Year 6 and June 15 for Nursery Highfield Junior and Infant School , Saltley - June 3 for Year 1 , June 8 for Reception @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June 15 for Nursery Little Sutton Primary School , Sutton Coldfield - June 8 for Year 6 and Reception , June 10 for Year 1 Children classed as vulnerable and whose parents are key workers have been able to attend school during lockdown and will continue to do so .
The government has stated pupils in 'key transition years ' identified as Nursery , Reception , Year 1 and 6 , are to return first from as early as Monday , June 1 .
It is expected the remaining age groups Years 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month .
Secondary schools , sixth forms and colleges have been instructed to provide face-to-face contact for students in Year 10 and 12 who are looking ahead to exams next year .
There are no plans for further secondary years to return before the summer holiday .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Schools have been told to open up to more pupils from June 1 - but Birmingham City Council has warned it will simply be impossible for some of them.
Headteachers have been given the flexibility by the city council to make their own decisions about reopening, which could see pupils from across Birmingham going back to their desks on different dates - unless parents choose to keep them home instead.
Below we will be publishing a list of schools which have indicated when exactly they will be reopening. The article will be updated as new information emerges.
Some have set provisional dates but said they were expecting the government to issue final guidance by May 28. Many schools have chosen to consult with parents about whether they plan to send their children back.
We will be trawling through school websites, letters and social media accounts to keep the list up to date, but we would also be grateful for any information on reopening dates from parents.
If your school is not on the list but you know when it is re-opening, please email newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk
We must stress that things can still change between now and June 1 which could prompt schools to amend their reopening plans. As well as checking out our own list we would urge parents to keep tabs on their own school's websites for any updates.
List of reopening dates for Birmingham schools
Anglesey Primary School, Lozells - June 8 (Provisional, TBC) for Reception, Year 1 and 6
Audley Primary School, Stechford - June 8 for Nursery and Reception, June 15 for Year 1 and Year 6
Bells Farm Primary, Kings Norton - June 8 (Provisional, TBC) for Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and 6
Birchfield Primary School, Aston - June 3 for Year 1, June 8 for Reception, June 11 for Year 6, June 15 for Nursery
Bournville Village Primary School, Bournville - June 8 (Provisional, TBC) for Reception, Year 1 and 6
Chad Vale Primary, Edgbaston - June 8 (Provisional, TBC) for Reception, Year 1 and 6
Chilcote Primary School, Hall Green - June 8 (Provisional, TBC) for Reception, Year 1 and 6
Clifton Primary School, Balsall Heath - June 1 for Nursery. Further years TBC
Colmers Farm Primary School, Rubery/Rednal - June 1 for Reception, June 2 for Year 1 and June 8 for Year 6
Court Farm Primary School, Erdington - June 1 for Year 6 only, June 2 for Reception and June 8 for Year 1 and half of the nursery. The remaining nursery children will be back on June 10.
Firs Primary School, Castle Bromwich - June 8 for early years, Year 1 and Year 6
Forestdale, Primary School, Frankley - June 1 for Year 6, June 2 for Year 1, June 4 for Reception, June 8 for Nursery
Four Dwellings Primary Academy, Quinton - June 1 (Provisional, TBC), no further details
Four Oaks Primary School, Sutton Coldfield - June 8 for Reception, June 15 for Year 1, June 22 for Year 6 (Provisional, TBC)
Gossey Lane Academy, Kitts Green - June 1 for Reception, Year 1 and 6
Green Meadow Primary School, Weoley Castle - June 1 for Reception, June 2 for Year 1, June 8 for Year 6 (Provisionally for Year 6, TBC)
Greenholme Primary School, Great Barr - June 1 for Year 6. Further years TBC
Grendon Primary School, Kings Heath - June 1 for Reception, Year 1 and year 6
Heathfield Primary School, Lozells - June 3 for Year 1, June 8 for Reception, June 11 for Year 6 and June 15 for Nursery
Highfield Junior and Infant School, Saltley - June 3 for Year 1, June 8 for Reception, June 11 for Year 6 and June 15 for Nursery
Highters Heath Community School, Kings Heath - June 4 for Year 6. Furthers TBC
Jervoise Primary School, Weoley Castle – June 8 for Reception, June 15 for Year 1 and Year 6
King David School, Alcester Road, B13 8EY - June 3 - Reception, Year One and Year Six children will be able to return to school full-time. Nursery children will be welcomed back, either on Mondays and Tuesdays, or on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Kingsland Primary School, Kingstanding - June 1 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
Lakey Lane Primary School, Hall Green - June 1 (Provisional, TBC). No further details
Lea Forest Primary School, Kitts Green - June 1. No further details
Little Sutton Primary School, Sutton Coldfield - June 8 for Year 6 and Reception, June 10 for Year 1
Maney Hill Primary School, Sutton Coldfield - June 1 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
Mansfield Green, Aston - June 8 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
Montgomery Primary Academy, Sparkbrook - June 1 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
Nishkam Primary School, Handsworth - June 1 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
Nonsuch Primary School, Woodgate Valley - June 1 for Reception, June 3 for Year 1 and June 4 for Year 6
Northfield Manor Primary School, Selly Oak - June 3 (Provisional, TBC)
Oasis Academy Boulton, Ladywood - June 1 (Provisional, TBC) for Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and 6
Oasis Academy Hobmoor, Yardley - June 1 for Reception and Year 6 (Provisional). Nursery and Reception TBC
Parkfield Community School, Saltley - June 1 for Nursery, June 2 for Reception, June 3 for Year 1 and June 8 for Year 6 (Provisional date for Year 6, TBC)
Percy Shurmer Academy, Balsall Heath - June 3 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
Princethorpe Infant School, Weoley Castle – June 8 for Nursery, Reception and Year 1
Princethorpe Junior School, Weoley Castle – June 8 for Year 6
Robin Hood Academy, Hall Green - June 3 for Nursery and Reception, June 8 for Year 1 and June 10 for Year 6
SS John and Monica Catholic Primary School, Moseley - June 8 (Provisional, TBC) for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
St. Alban's Catholic Primary School, Kings Heath - June 8 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
St. Bernadette's Catholic Primary School, Yardley - June 2 for Year 6, June 3 for Year 1, June 4 for Reception and June 5 for Nursery
St. Bernard's Catholic Primary School, Moseley, - June 4 for Reception and Year 6, June 15 for Year 1
St. Brigid's Catholic Primary School, Northfield - June 8 for Reception, June 10 for Year 1, June 11 for Year 6, June 15 for Nursery
St. Columba's Catholic Primary School, Rednal - June 8 for Reception, June 10 for Year 1, June 11 for Year 6
St. Cuthbert's RC Primary School, Stechford - June 1 for Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
St. Edmund's Catholic Primary Catholic School, Springhill - June 3 for Reception and Year 6, June 8 for Nursery A group, June 10 for Nursery B group and Year 1,
St. Edward's Catholic Primary School, Selly Park - June 8 for Year 1, June 9 for Year 6, June 15 for Reception
St. Francis Catholic Primary School, Handsworth - June 3 for Reception and Year 1, June 10 for Year 6
St. Francis CofE Primary School, Bournville - June 1 for Nursery, Reception, Year and Year 6
St. Gerard's Catholic Primary School, Castle Vale - June 8 for Nursery and Reception, June 9 for Year 6, June 10 for Year 1
St. James' Catholic Primary School, Rednal - June 8 for Reception, June 10 for year 1, June 11 for Year 6 and June 15 for Nursery
St. John's and St. Peter's CofE Academy, Ladywood - June 1 for Nursery, Reception and Year 1, June 15 for Year 6
St. Joseph's Catholic Primary School, Nechells - June 8 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
St. Margaret Mary's RC Primary School, Erdington - June 8 for Year 6, June 15 for Reception and Year 1 (Provisional, TBC)
St. Mark's Catholic Primary School, Great Barr - June 8 for Year 1, June 15 for Reception
St. Martin de Porres Catholic Primary School, Moseley - June 8 for Reception, June 10 for Year 1, June 15 for Year 6 (Year date provisional, TBC on June 10)
St. Mary's Catholic Primary School, Harborne - June 8 for Reception (Provisional, TBC)
St. Mary's CofE Primary Academy and Nursery, Handsworth - June 8 for Year 6, June 10 for Nursery, Reception and Year 1 (Provisional, TBC)
St. Michael's Primary School, Bartley Green - June 1 for Year 6, June 2 for Year 1, June 3 for Reception, June 4 for Nursery
St. Paul's Catholic Primary School, Kings Norton - June 8 for Reception, June 10 for Year 1, June 11 for Year 6, June 15 for Nursery
St. Peter's CofE Primary School, Harborne - June 8 for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
St. Saviour's Primary School, Saltley - June 2 for Year 1, other years TBC
St. Thomas Academy, Ladywood - June 1 for Nursery, Reception and Year 1, June 15 for Year 6
St. Thomas More Catholic Primary School, Sheldon - June 8 for Reception, June 10 for Year 1, June 11 for Year 6
St. Vincent's Catholic Primary School, Nechells - June 1 for Year 6, dates for other years TBC
Summerfield Primary School, Winson Green - June 8 for Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6
The Oratory RC Primary and Nursery School, Ladywood - June 8 for Year 1 and Year 6
The Oval Primary School, Whittington Oval, Stechford – June 8 for Nursery and Reception, June 15 for Year 1
The Rosary Catholic Primary School, Saltley - June 1 for Year 6, June 8 for Reception
Timberley Academy, Shard End - June 8 for Reception and Year 6
Turves Green Primary School, West Heath - June 1 for Reception, June 2 for Year 1, June 8 for Year 6 (Provisionally for Year 6, TBC)
Washwood Heath Academy, Stechford - June 1 for Reception, Year 1 and 6
Wychall Primary School, Northfield – June 8 for Nursery and Reception, June 15 for Year 1 and Year 6
Children classed as vulnerable and whose parents are key workers have been able to attend school during lockdown and will continue to do so. The government has stated pupils in 'key transition years' identified as Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and 6, are to return first from as early as Monday, June 1. It is expected the remaining age groups Years 2 to 5 will return later in the month.
Secondary schools, sixth forms and colleges have been instructed to provide face-to-face contact for students in Year 10 and 12 who are looking ahead to exams next year. There are no plans for further secondary years to return before the summer holiday.


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Solskjaer's Adama Traore revelation amid United transfer claims

Manchester United are the latest high profile team to be linked with a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore .
Speculation surrounding Traore 's long-term future is nothing new to the player or his adoring supporters with virtually every top club in Europe now said to be chasing him .
Wolves fans have frequently listened to Premier League managers gush about Traore during what has undoubtedly been the best season of his career to date .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Wolves wide-man is 'unplayable ' , while Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola - who has watched Traore score three times against his team this season - thinks he 's 'impossible ' to stop .
And Jose Mourinho called Traore a 'train ' after he rinsed his Tottenham Hotspur side in December .
All three of those clubs have also been linked with Traore , but it 's United 's interest which is news to Wolves .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has n't spoken as glowingly about Traore as his rival managers but he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ draw between United and Wolves at Old Trafford on February 1 .
Asked which Wolves player he fears most , Solskjaer responded : “ Traore and Jimenez are always difficult to play against .
They are very good players.
” Interestingly , United have also been heavily linked with Raul Jimenez who has enjoyed another excellent season under Nuno Espirito Santo .
Whether United 's interest comes to anything remains to be seen , but Wolves hold all the cards when it comes to their two prize possessions .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Manchester United have reportedly moved to the front of the queue for Wolverhampton Wanderers star Raul Jimenez's signature.
Speculation surrounding Jimenez's long-term future is nothing new to the player or his adoring supporters with virtually every top club in Europe now said to be chasing him.
Wolves fans have frequently listened to Premier League managers gush about Jimenez during what has undoubtedly been the best season of his career to date.
Sign up to our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Jimenez has scored 26 goals across all competitions, 17 of which arrived in the league. Since he joined Wolves from Benfica two years ago only seven players have managed more in the Premier League.
Wolves are desperate to keep Jimenez but, according to Portuguese outlet RTP, the Mexican is 'on his way to Manchester United'.
Nothing has been confirmed from either club, nor is it expected to be, but it's clear Solskjaer is a huge fan of Jimenez.
Asked which Wolves player he fears most during a press conference earlier this season, Solskjaer responded: “Traore and Jimenez are always difficult to play against. They are very good players.”
After the FA Cup game at Molineux in January Solskjaer said of Jimenez: “Another good player being linked with us. He came on and did really well. Loads of players are being linked with us. I can’t comment on speculation.”
Interestingly, United have also been linked with Adama Traore who has enjoyed another excellent season under Nuno Espirito Santo.
Whether United's interest comes to anything remains to be seen, but Wolves hold all the cards when it comes to their two prize possessions.


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Fewer loungers by the pool will be available in Spain, Greece and Turkey

Finding a sunbed abroad has long been a bone of contention as holidaymakers vye with each other to secure the best spot by the pool .
And it 's set to be even more contentious this summer when European resorts finally open to tourists reveals the Mirror .
Extra safety and hygiene measures will be introduced by travel operators amidst the pandemic meaning the rush for a favoured lounger is set to be even more of a battle .
In TUI resorts , sun loungers will be located on in designated spots with first , come first served , being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be allowed to move them to a sunnier or indeed shadier position and there will also be fewer around the pool area .
Visitors will instead have to use sunbeds which will sited in other parts of the hotel grounds while beds will also be subject to additional cleaning in between guests .
A spokesperson for TUI told Mirror.co.uk : `` We determine specific positions for the sun lounges to ensure the required distances and disinfect before new guests occupy them .
`` Sunbeds are positioned by staff and guests are not allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Our staff is trained well and will inform our guests about the new procedures .
`` In many hotels guests also have the opportunity to book spacious daybeds in advance , but this has been implemented before as an additional service ( for a fee ) and is not part of the current measures .
`` We will use several areas of the resorts - pool , garden , beach - for the positioning of the sunbeds to provide a wide range of options . ''
In Spain , a local council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be separated into five zones to help prevent infection .
Proposals for Silgar beach in the northwest of Spain include sunbathing 'squares ' for visitors with sections roped off to ensure social distancing .
Holidaymakers will be expected to stay in their allocated square and should they want to move around on the beach or go to the toilet , then another strip must be followed .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Andy Rudd, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Finding a sunbed abroad has long been a bone of contention as holidaymakers vye with each other to secure the best spot by the pool.
And it's set to be even more contentious this summer when European resorts finally open to tourists reveals the Mirror.
Extra safety and hygiene measures will be introduced by travel operators amidst the pandemic meaning the rush for a favoured lounger is set to be even more of a battle.
In TUI resorts, sun loungers will be located on in designated spots with first, come first served, being the rule.
But guests will not be allowed to move them to a sunnier or indeed shadier position and there will also be fewer around the pool area.
Visitors will instead have to use sunbeds which will sited in other parts of the hotel grounds while beds will also be subject to additional cleaning in between guests.
A spokesperson for TUI told Mirror.co.uk: "We determine specific positions for the sun lounges to ensure the required distances and disinfect before new guests occupy them.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"Sunbeds are positioned by staff and guests are not allowed to move them to other areas.
"Our staff is trained well and will inform our guests about the new procedures.
"In many hotels guests also have the opportunity to book spacious daybeds in advance, but this has been implemented before as an additional service (for a fee) and is not part of the current measures.
"We will use several areas of the resorts - pool, garden, beach - for the positioning of the sunbeds to provide a wide range of options."
In Spain, a local council has shared amazing images showing how beaches could be separated into five zones to help prevent infection.
Proposals for Silgar beach in the northwest of Spain include sunbathing 'squares' for visitors with sections roped off to ensure social distancing.
Holidaymakers will be expected to stay in their allocated square and should they want to move around on the beach or go to the toilet, then another strip must be followed.


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Tributes paid to former Handsworth and Lozells councillor Don Brown

Tributes have been paid following the death of a ‘ very well respected ’ and ‘ humble ’ former councillor .
Don Brown , 87 , died on Thursday morning ( May 21 ) , following a long illness .
Mr Brown was a Labour Councillor , elected for the Handsworth ward , from May 1995 to June 2004 , and the Lozells and East Handsworth Ward from June 2004 to May 2012 .
He also served on multiple committees including social services , public protection , environmental and contract services .
Mr Brown , who had six children - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grandchildren , became an Honorary Alderman in May 2012 .
His son Dexter Brown , paid tribute to his father , saying : “ He was a loyal servant and very well respected by the community .
`` We are all sad.
” Tributes poured in from fellow politicians as soon as news broke of Mr Brown ’ s death .
City council leader Ian Ward , said : “ This is very sad news and my thoughts are with Don ’ s family at this time .
`` Don moved to Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passionate about the city that became his home for over 60 years .
“ We both joined the council at the same time and Don served the people of Handsworth and Lozells for the best part of 20 years .
He was a good man who worked hard to make a difference.
” Councillor Mahmood Hussain said : “ He was such a nice person , a humble man .
We worked together as councillors for many years .
He was a genuine person , a hard working man and had a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He will be missed by his family and by all of us .
My condolences to his entire family.
” Transport boss and Lozells councillor Waseem Zaffer said : “ Don was a friend and a colleague who I learnt a lot from .
“ His passion to serve all his constituents irrespective of backgrounds is a crucial element of his outstanding legacy .
”

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Tributes have been paid following the death of a ‘very well respected’ and ‘humble’ former councillor.
Don Brown, 87, died on Thursday morning (May 21), following a long illness.
Mr Brown was a Labour Councillor, elected for the Handsworth ward, from May 1995 to June 2004, and the Lozells and East Handsworth Ward from June 2004 to May 2012.
He also served on multiple committees including social services, public protection, environmental and contract services.
Mr Brown, who had six children - four daughters and two sons- and 12 grandchildren, became an Honorary Alderman in May 2012.
(Image: Birmingham Post And Mail)
His son Dexter Brown, paid tribute to his father, saying : “He was a loyal servant and very well respected by the community.
"We are all sad.”
Tributes poured in from fellow politicians as soon as news broke of Mr Brown’s death.
City council leader Ian Ward, said: “This is very sad news and my thoughts are with Don’s family at this time.
"Don moved to Birmingham in the late 1950s and was incredibly passionate about the city that became his home for over 60 years.
“We both joined the council at the same time and Don served the people of Handsworth and Lozells for the best part of 20 years. He was a good man who worked hard to make a difference.”
Councillor Mahmood Hussain said: “He was such a nice person, a humble man. We worked together as councillors for many years. He was a genuine person, a hard working man and had a lot of respect in the community.
“He will be missed by his family and by all of us. My condolences to his entire family.”
Transport boss and Lozells councillor Waseem Zaffer said: “Don was a friend and a colleague who I learnt a lot from.
“His passion to serve all his constituents irrespective of backgrounds is a crucial element of his outstanding legacy.”


birminghammail--2020-05-21--Aston Villa CEO Christian Purslow urged to follow Leeds United example

Former Leeds United defender Alex Bruce has claimed Christian Purslow ’ s public concerns over ‘ Project Restart ’ shows he is ‘ panicking about relegation ’ .
Aston Villa chief executive , Purslow has been outspoken on the topic of playing Premier League games in neutral venues – with Dean Smith ’ s side set to play the majority of their remaining games at Villa Park .
It ’ s a battle he has seemingly won , with top-flight bosses now said to be happy for fixtures to be played as scheduled , albeit behind-closed-doors .
There 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store The Premier League remain committed to completing the season , with further talks scheduled for next week .
But Bruce has told Purslow he should leave the decisions to the governing bodies .
And while questioning Purslow ’ s actions , he has heaped praise on Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani , who has kept quiet throughout the process .
“ When you see someone like Christian Purslow come out and say he wants this that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obviously panicking about the relegation , ” Bruce told Football Insider .
“ I think ultimately you ’ ve got to leave it to the governing bodies because there ’ s nothing you can really do to influence them because it ’ s them who are making the decisions .
“ They ’ ve got a lot of clubs to think about and whatever they do , it will be for the benefit of everybody .
“ I respect people like Radrizzani who have just kept their head down , let the powers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them when those decisions have been made .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Former Leeds United defender Alex Bruce has claimed Christian Purslow’s public concerns over ‘Project Restart’ shows he is ‘panicking about relegation’.
Aston Villa chief executive, Purslow has been outspoken on the topic of playing Premier League games in neutral venues – with Dean Smith’s side set to play the majority of their remaining games at Villa Park.
It’s a battle he has seemingly won, with top-flight bosses now said to be happy for fixtures to be played as scheduled, albeit behind-closed-doors.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
The Premier League remain committed to completing the season, with further talks scheduled for next week.
But Bruce has told Purslow he should leave the decisions to the governing bodies. And while questioning Purslow’s actions, he has heaped praise on Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani, who has kept quiet throughout the process.
“When you see someone like Christian Purslow come out and say he wants this that and the other, he’s obviously panicking about the relegation,” Bruce told Football Insider.
“I think ultimately you’ve got to leave it to the governing bodies because there’s nothing you can really do to influence them because it’s them who are making the decisions.
“They’ve got a lot of clubs to think about and whatever they do, it will be for the benefit of everybody.
“I respect people like Radrizzani who have just kept their head down, let the powers that be make the decisions and respect them when those decisions have been made.”