birminghammail--2020-09-28--True story behind ITV's Honour drama of Banaz Mahmod body in suitcase murder

A police investigation into what happened to missing woman Banaz Mahmod is at the heart of new ITV drama Honour , which starts tonight .
So what is the true story behind the two-parter , starring Keeley Hawes as Detective Chief Inspector Caroline Goode ?
Keeley said : `` In a time where honour killings are still rife , it is critical to shine a light on such an important subject .
`` Banaz Mahmod 's story , and DCI Goode 's subsequent investigation , is certainly one that needs to be told and I am proud to be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members were convicted of Banaz 's murder and another jailed for helping to dispose of the body .
The British-Iraqi Kurdish woman , who lived in Wimbledon , London , was the victim of a so-called 'honour killing ' by her family .
Her uncle and father had her raped and murdered after they said they brought shame on them for leaving an arranged marriage and finding love with a new partner .
Banaz 's cousins Mohammed Saleh Ali and Omar Hussain , along with a third man , Mohamad Marid Hama , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to covert recordings of Hama made while he was on remand - the trio subjected Banaz to more than two hours of rape and torture before she was strangled with a ligature .
Another cousin , Dana Amin , helped stuff her body into a suitcase and move it to Birmingham , where it was discovered buried in a back garden .
It had been an innocent kiss outside a tube station in south London that set in motion the events leading to her death - after someone who knew Banaz and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she had fallen in love with .
Banaz had left her husband and found a new boyfriend in Rahmat Sulemani .
The pair were said to be besotted with each other , texting every morning and night .
But the young woman discovered she was being monitored by her family and learned of their plans to murder her .
In a letter to police where she referred to members of her family by numbers , Banaz revealed she had heard discussions of a murder plot and wrote : `` Numbers 2 , 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ready and willing to do the job of killing me and my boyfriend . ''
Find the latest crime statistics for your area by typing your postcode in the box below : Four months later she was dead .
Five members of her family were later convicted of her murder - sentenced to a total of 100 years in prison .
Police said more than 50 people were actually involved in the case - some in the cover up of her body and others who offered to lie for the family members arrested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mahmod Mahmod was sentenced to a minimum 20 years and his brother Ari , the head of the family , 23 years .
Mohamad Hama , 30 , was jailed for at least 17 years for the killing .
Mohammed Ali , 30 , and Omar Hussain , 32 , were also jailed for life after they were extradited from Iraq after fleeing the UK in 2006 .
Old Bailey judge Brian Barker told the men when they were sentenced : `` This was barbaric .
For you , respect was more important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rahmat , who had to assume a secret identity and live under police protection , told in an interview how there was `` no life '' for him after Banaz ’ s death .
In 2016 , 10 years after the shocking murder , Rahmat took his own life .
Born on December 16 , 1985 , Banaz moved to the UK from Iraq with her family in 1995 when she was 10 , along with her parents , four sisters and a brother as well as extended family members .
They were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with strong views on the role of women .
She was put into an arranged marriage with a man who was 10 years older and spoke no English .
He used to beat and rape her , repeatedly .
DCI Goode said when one of Banaz 's sisters found her covered in bruises they confronted her husband .
She explained : `` He said 'yes , I do beat your daughter but it 's because she 's disrespectful .
And yes I do force her to have sex , but only when she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ felt that was acceptable and sent Banaz back to try harder to be a better wife .
`` In her words 'he treated me as if I was a shoe ' he could put on whenever he wanted . ''
But after two years , Banaz left her husband in 2005 , striking up a relationship with her friend Rahmat .
Her family tried to warn off the new boyfriend so the pair did their best to conceal the relationship .
DCI Goode , who said she is still haunted by the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ war was held at Ari Mahmod 's house where the decision was made that Banaz and Rahmat would both be killed .
`` Ari Mahmod rang Banaz 's mother and told her that was going to happen .
In his words 'they are bringing shame on the family and that b**** and that b****** are going to die . ''
Banaz overheard the conversation and handed a letter to the Metropolitan Police in December 2005 .
She contacted police five times about her family , saying she was sure they were following her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eve , her father took her to her grandmother 's house where he fed her brandy while wearing blue gloves , constantly telling Banaz not to look at him .
Suspecting she was about to be killed , she escaped by smashing a window before collapsing in a cafe and being taken to hospital , covered in blood .
She was taken to hospital where she told police she was convinced her dad would kill her .
At this stage Banaz had no where else to go and her family arranged to meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Her dad apologised and told Rahmat he should not have listened to his brother .
They promised nothing would happen to her and convinced her to go home .
But they lied .
On January 22 , 2006 Rahmat was almost abducted by two men who told him they would kill him , and Banaz .
The pair went to the police the next day and Banaz was due to return the day after that to give a statement .
She never turned up and on January 24 , 2006 , Rahmat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police that they were progressive and embraced a westernised life - with their daughters free to come and go as they pleased .
They suggested she had simply gone to stay with a friend .
As police searched woods and tried to question her family , doors were slammed in their faces and the family failed to follow up her disappearance .
Police found no photos of her in the family home and according to DCI Goode , officers were `` outraged at the lack of love . ''
But it was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after he came forward to admit that he had been there when Rahmat was threatened , that proved to be the turning point .
As Hama was held in cells waiting to appear in court , his phone conversations were covertly recorded .
`` He was callously describing the murder to a relative and they were congratulating themselves on how manly they were , '' said DCI Goode .
`` And they described that murder in the most gruesome of terms .
`` They had anally raped Banaz , she was vomiting she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a cord three times around her neck so tightly that it was biting into her flesh .
He described having his feet on her back and pulling and pulling on that cord .
Can you imagine the horror of that situation ?
It took more than half an hour for her to die . ''
Police were left hunting for her body , using mobile phone records to trace two family members and their frequent journeys to Birmingham .
They knew she was buried in a back garden , but did n't know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that identified many potential sites , but it was when Hama asked his friend on the phone if anyone had found the body and if he had `` put the freezer back '' over the body , that DCI Goode knew where Banaz 's body had been hidden .
The body was found inside a suitcase , several feet beneath the ground .
It had been left beneath a leaking pipe , left to rot so badly that no DNA could be taken from it .
Keeley Hawes , who takes on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hopes the drama would raise awareness of honour killings .
She said : `` If one girl , or one woman , does n't have to go through what Banaz had to go through , then it 's a success , as far as I 'm concerned .
`` If we can make a difference , as small as that , and through people being aware .
`` It 's been a real education for me , and if we can open people 's eyes , if you see something strange , maybe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is something untoward , and maybe we can help someone . ''
• Honour will be screened on Monday September 28 and Tuesday September 29 at 9pm on ITV .

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A police investigation into what happened to missing woman Banaz Mahmod is at the heart of new ITV drama Honour, which starts tonight.
So what is the true story behind the two-parter, starring Keeley Hawes as Detective Chief Inspector Caroline Goode?
Keeley said: "In a time where honour killings are still rife, it is critical to shine a light on such an important subject.
"Banaz Mahmod's story, and DCI Goode's subsequent investigation, is certainly one that needs to be told and I am proud to be a part of it."
(Image: ITV)
Five family members were convicted of Banaz's murder and another jailed for helping to dispose of the body.
The British-Iraqi Kurdish woman, who lived in Wimbledon, London, was the victim of a so-called 'honour killing' by her family.
Her uncle and father had her raped and murdered after they said they brought shame on them for leaving an arranged marriage and finding love with a new partner.
Banaz's cousins Mohammed Saleh Ali and Omar Hussain, along with a third man, Mohamad Marid Hama, arrived at the family home and - according to covert recordings of Hama made while he was on remand - the trio subjected Banaz to more than two hours of rape and torture before she was strangled with a ligature.
Another cousin, Dana Amin, helped stuff her body into a suitcase and move it to Birmingham, where it was discovered buried in a back garden.
It had been an innocent kiss outside a tube station in south London that set in motion the events leading to her death - after someone who knew Banaz and her family spotted her with the man she had fallen in love with.
Banaz had left her husband and found a new boyfriend in Rahmat Sulemani. The pair were said to be besotted with each other, texting every morning and night.
But the young woman discovered she was being monitored by her family and learned of their plans to murder her.
In a letter to police where she referred to members of her family by numbers, Banaz revealed she had heard discussions of a murder plot and wrote: "Numbers 2, 3, 4 and 5 said they are ready and willing to do the job of killing me and my boyfriend."
Find the latest crime statistics for your area by typing your postcode in the box below:
Four months later she was dead. Five members of her family were later convicted of her murder - sentenced to a total of 100 years in prison.
Police said more than 50 people were actually involved in the case - some in the cover up of her body and others who offered to lie for the family members arrested for her murder.
Banaz's father Mahmod Mahmod was sentenced to a minimum 20 years and his brother Ari, the head of the family, 23 years.
Mohamad Hama, 30, was jailed for at least 17 years for the killing.
Mohammed Ali, 30, and Omar Hussain, 32, were also jailed for life after they were extradited from Iraq after fleeing the UK in 2006.
Old Bailey judge Brian Barker told the men when they were sentenced: "This was barbaric. For you, respect was more important than your flesh and blood."
Rahmat, who had to assume a secret identity and live under police protection, told in an interview how there was "no life" for him after Banaz’s death. In 2016, 10 years after the shocking murder, Rahmat took his own life.
Born on December 16, 1985, Banaz moved to the UK from Iraq with her family in 1995 when she was 10, along with her parents, four sisters and a brother as well as extended family members. They were described as a typical Iraqi family, with strong views on the role of women.
She was put into an arranged marriage with a man who was 10 years older and spoke no English. He used to beat and rape her, repeatedly.
DCI Goode said when one of Banaz's sisters found her covered in bruises they confronted her husband.
She explained: "He said 'yes, I do beat your daughter but it's because she's disrespectful. And yes I do force her to have sex, but only when she says no.'
"The family felt that was acceptable and sent Banaz back to try harder to be a better wife.
"In her words 'he treated me as if I was a shoe' he could put on whenever he wanted."
But after two years, Banaz left her husband in 2005, striking up a relationship with her friend Rahmat.
Her family tried to warn off the new boyfriend so the pair did their best to conceal the relationship.
DCI Goode, who said she is still haunted by the case, added: "A council of war was held at Ari Mahmod's house where the decision was made that Banaz and Rahmat would both be killed.
"Ari Mahmod rang Banaz's mother and told her that was going to happen. In his words 'they are bringing shame on the family and that b**** and that b****** are going to die."
Banaz overheard the conversation and handed a letter to the Metropolitan Police in December 2005.
She contacted police five times about her family, saying she was sure they were following her. Then, on New Year's Eve, her father took her to her grandmother's house where he fed her brandy while wearing blue gloves, constantly telling Banaz not to look at him.
Suspecting she was about to be killed, she escaped by smashing a window before collapsing in a cafe and being taken to hospital, covered in blood. She was taken to hospital where she told police she was convinced her dad would kill her.
At this stage Banaz had no where else to go and her family arranged to meet her in a McDonald's in Tooting. Her dad apologised and told Rahmat he should not have listened to his brother. They promised nothing would happen to her and convinced her to go home.
But they lied. On January 22, 2006 Rahmat was almost abducted by two men who told him they would kill him, and Banaz. The pair went to the police the next day and Banaz was due to return the day after that to give a statement.
She never turned up and on January 24, 2006, Rahmat reported Banaz missing.
Her family told police that they were progressive and embraced a westernised life - with their daughters free to come and go as they pleased. They suggested she had simply gone to stay with a friend.
As police searched woods and tried to question her family, doors were slammed in their faces and the family failed to follow up her disappearance. Police found no photos of her in the family home and according to DCI Goode, officers were "outraged at the lack of love."
But it was the charging of her cousin Mohamad Hama, after he came forward to admit that he had been there when Rahmat was threatened, that proved to be the turning point.
As Hama was held in cells waiting to appear in court, his phone conversations were covertly recorded.
"He was callously describing the murder to a relative and they were congratulating themselves on how manly they were," said DCI Goode. "And they described that murder in the most gruesome of terms.
"They had anally raped Banaz, she was vomiting she was so afraid. They had wrapped a cord three times around her neck so tightly that it was biting into her flesh. He described having his feet on her back and pulling and pulling on that cord. Can you imagine the horror of that situation? It took more than half an hour for her to die."
Police were left hunting for her body, using mobile phone records to trace two family members and their frequent journeys to Birmingham.
They knew she was buried in a back garden, but didn't know where.
They used a police helicopter that identified many potential sites, but it was when Hama asked his friend on the phone if anyone had found the body and if he had "put the freezer back" over the body, that DCI Goode knew where Banaz's body had been hidden.
The body was found inside a suitcase, several feet beneath the ground. It had been left beneath a leaking pipe, left to rot so badly that no DNA could be taken from it.
Keeley Hawes, who takes on the role of DCI Goode, says she hopes the drama would raise awareness of honour killings.
She said: "If one girl, or one woman, doesn't have to go through what Banaz had to go through, then it's a success, as far as I'm concerned.
"If we can make a difference, as small as that, and through people being aware.
"It's been a real education for me, and if we can open people's eyes, if you see something strange, maybe it is something strange, maybe it is something untoward, and maybe we can help someone."


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Huddersfield's transfer stance on Karlan Grant amid claims of Albion 'loan' deal

Karlan Grant will not be leaving Huddersfield Town on an initial loan deal , it is being reported .
It has been claimed that the striker , Albion 's top transfer target , could leave the Terriers on loan before signing for Slaven Bilic 's side on a permanent deal .
BirminghamLive 's sister title in West Yorkshire , YorkshireLive , is reporting that no loan deal has been agreed and that Carlos Corberan 's side have set their price for the former Charlton Athletic striker .
The latest reports are claiming that Albion could yet agree on Huddersfield 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before paying the rest in installments .
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Google Play Store and App Store Grant was the subject @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Huddersfield deciding to keep hold of the striker with their Championship future uncertain .
Head coach Carlos Corberan decided to omit Grant from his team that beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 on Friday night and Bilic reiterated his need for more attacking additions a day later .
`` I can only hope at this moment - I think something will happen because we need it , '' he said after Saturday 's 3-3 draw with Chelsea .
`` I 've said it from the beginning , I keep saying that and I hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even after the Chelsea game - and try to strengthen our team . ''
Sign up for our Albion newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Albion have began the season starting Callum Robinson up front , with the former Aston Villa striker swapped for Oliver Burke with Sheffield United .
Bilic also has Charlie Austin , Hal Robson-Kanu and Kenneth Zohore to call upon although the former and latter are being linked with moves away .
Austin is said to be interesting Derby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being credited with an interest in Zohore .

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Karlan Grant will not be leaving Huddersfield Town on an initial loan deal, it is being reported.
It has been claimed that the striker, Albion 's top transfer target, could leave the Terriers on loan before signing for Slaven Bilic's side on a permanent deal.
BirminghamLive 's sister title in West Yorkshire, YorkshireLive , is reporting that no loan deal has been agreed and that Carlos Corberan's side have set their price for the former Charlton Athletic striker.
The latest reports are claiming that Albion could yet agree on Huddersfield's valuation and stump up an agreeable fee before paying the rest in installments.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Grant was the subject of an unnamed bid in January, with Huddersfield deciding to keep hold of the striker with their Championship future uncertain.
Head coach Carlos Corberan decided to omit Grant from his team that beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 on Friday night and Bilic reiterated his need for more attacking additions a day later.
"I can only hope at this moment - I think something will happen because we need it," he said after Saturday's 3-3 draw with Chelsea.
"I've said it from the beginning, I keep saying that and I hope the owners will recognise the situation - even after the Chelsea game - and try to strengthen our team."
Sign up for our Albion newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Albion have began the season starting Callum Robinson up front, with the former Aston Villa striker swapped for Oliver Burke with Sheffield United.
Bilic also has Charlie Austin, Hal Robson-Kanu and Kenneth Zohore to call upon although the former and latter are being linked with moves away.
Austin is said to be interesting Derby County while Middlesbrough and Sheffield Wednesday are being credited with an interest in Zohore.


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Staff at Birmingham uni press for ban on face to face teaching

A union representing academic staff at Birmingham 's main universities is urging an immediate ban on all face to face teaching to help avert a Manchester-style outbreak .
In an open letter to the University of Birmingham , the UCU union ( University and College Union ) said it `` calls into question '' the safety of local return to campus plans .
It is now calling for an end to all face to face teaching because of rising local infection rates and to avert more stringent measures in case of an outbreak .
In a letter , sent Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 'test and trace ' students are `` sketchy '' , relying on students noting the names of who they are sitting next to during lectures and tutorials ; and say lecturers have been advised they will only be notified of clusters `` of more than ten cases '' .
They also voice concerns on a range of issues - including whether there are sufficient additional protective measures for staff who identify as black , Asian or from another at-risk group , and whether cloth face coverings are suitably robust to keep staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in England are dealing with coronavirus cases as students return to campuses across the country .
The Prime Minister has been urged to ensure online tuition at universities `` becomes the norm '' , amid concern over the impact of Covid-19 lockdowns on students .
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There are all the Government briefings and announcements as well as new laws , decisions on the economy that affect businesses and our personal finances , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of course local and national elections that decide who represents us .
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And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store Nationally , the UCU has accused some institutions of adopting a `` stubborn position '' over requiring in-person teaching because they depend on rent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the letter produced by the union locally displays frustration at what it says has been a lack of engagement with the union and staff who are worried about their safety .
Birmingham is in the throes of a major spike in coronavirus cases and has a series of local restrictions in place to try to control the spread - including a ban on households meeting at home or in the garden .
This also applies to students , who are prohibited from having visitors to their university flats or homes .
The union @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid cases on campus already reported over the past few weeks '' , despite term not officially starting until today .
It highlights a report of the Independent SAGE group of experts , led by Sir David King , the former Scientific Adviser to the government , who advised universities against resuming face-to-face teaching because risks of infection were deemed too high .
And it concludes : `` With all of the above in mind , there is no obvious reason to risk on-campus teaching given that teaching/working as a default is clearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ massive impact in terms of reducing unnecessary risk .
`` We insist that the university should move immediately to online teaching and working as a default for all staff .
We do not believe the University campus to be a safe workplace . ''
The university has published a list of the measures it has taken to protect staff and students on its website .
It responded to the UCU in a statement : '' The University of Birmingham has a detailed and robust internal track and trace system which is triggered if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they have tested positive for COVID-19 .
This is in addition to the NHS App .
`` We have a process in place to liaise directly with the Director of Public Health for Birmingham and with Public Health England and will follow their guidance .
Our focus is on close contact identification and self-isolation to minimise the impact on campus or the community , and as part of this we are aligned to national test and trace .
`` For students in university accommodation , there are already arrangements in place to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to self-isolate should they be needed .
`` The university has put in place a huge range of measures to minimise risk for all those who spend time on campus , this includes the provision of thousands of additional hand sanitising stations , antiseptic wipes in all rooms and reorganisation of buildings and rooms to allow social distancing .
Face coverings have been provided to each student and member of staff , which are required to be worn in buildings across campus .
`` Teaching is taking place in a bimodal way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and seminars delivered in a mixture of online and socially distanced in-person classes .
In addition we have an expanded team of marshals who will support students and remind them of the COVID measures . ''

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A union representing academic staff at Birmingham's main universities is urging an immediate ban on all face to face teaching to help avert a Manchester-style outbreak.
In an open letter to the University of Birmingham, the UCU union (University and College Union) said it "calls into question" the safety of local return to campus plans.
It is now calling for an end to all face to face teaching because of rising local infection rates and to avert more stringent measures in case of an outbreak.
In a letter, sent Sunday, it claims the university's plans to 'test and trace' students are "sketchy", relying on students noting the names of who they are sitting next to during lectures and tutorials; and say lecturers have been advised they will only be notified of clusters "of more than ten cases".
(Image: flickr / Karl W Newton)
They also voice concerns on a range of issues - including whether there are sufficient additional protective measures for staff who identify as black, Asian or from another at-risk group, and whether cloth face coverings are suitably robust to keep staff safe.
As many as 33 universities in England are dealing with coronavirus cases as students return to campuses across the country.
The Prime Minister has been urged to ensure online tuition at universities "becomes the norm", amid concern over the impact of Covid-19 lockdowns on students.
Nationally, the UCU has accused some institutions of adopting a "stubborn position" over requiring in-person teaching because they depend on rent from student accommodation.
In Birmingham, the letter produced by the union locally displays frustration at what it says has been a lack of engagement with the union and staff who are worried about their safety.
Birmingham is in the throes of a major spike in coronavirus cases and has a series of local restrictions in place to try to control the spread - including a ban on households meeting at home or in the garden.
This also applies to students, who are prohibited from having visitors to their university flats or homes.
The union letter claims there has been "several Covid cases on campus already reported over the past few weeks", despite term not officially starting until today.
It highlights a report of the Independent SAGE group of experts, led by Sir David King, the former Scientific Adviser to the government, who advised universities against resuming face-to-face teaching because risks of infection were deemed too high.
And it concludes: "With all of the above in mind, there is no obvious reason to risk on-campus teaching given that teaching/working as a default is clearly reasonably practicable and therefore would make a massive impact in terms of reducing unnecessary risk.
"We insist that the university should move immediately to online teaching and working as a default for all staff. We do not believe the University campus to be a safe workplace."
The university has published a list of the measures it has taken to protect staff and students on its website.
It responded to the UCU in a statement:
"The University of Birmingham has a detailed and robust internal track and trace system which is triggered if any student or member of staff reports that they have tested positive for COVID-19. This is in addition to the NHS App.
"We have a process in place to liaise directly with the Director of Public Health for Birmingham and with Public Health England and will follow their guidance. Our focus is on close contact identification and self-isolation to minimise the impact on campus or the community, and as part of this we are aligned to national test and trace.
"For students in university accommodation, there are already arrangements in place to provide food and support to those who need to self-isolate should they be needed.
"The university has put in place a huge range of measures to minimise risk for all those who spend time on campus, this includes the provision of thousands of additional hand sanitising stations, antiseptic wipes in all rooms and reorganisation of buildings and rooms to allow social distancing. Face coverings have been provided to each student and member of staff, which are required to be worn in buildings across campus.
"Teaching is taking place in a bimodal way, with all lectures delivered online, and seminars delivered in a mixture of online and socially distanced in-person classes. In addition we have an expanded team of marshals who will support students and remind them of the COVID measures."


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Fulham 0-3 Villa - Report and reaction

Fulham 0-3 Villa - Report and reaction

Aston Villa cruised to victory at Craven Cottage to claim their first win at Fulham in more than a decade .
It was Villa 's rampant - and clinical - first-half showing that did all the damage with Villa skipper Jack Grealish opening the scoring after just four minutes .
The 25-year-old latched onto the brilliant John McGinn 's reverse pass and Grealish did the rest , keeping his cool to slot underneath the advancing Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola .
A little over 10 minutes later , it was Grealish who took it right to the heart of the opposition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his quick throw-in allowed him to play a one-two with Ollie Watkins .
After getting the ball back , Grealish found McGinn and it was the Scot 's little set that allowed Conor Hourihane to spank home to make it 2-0 .
Villa were 2-0 up inside the first 15 minutes for the first time since beating Arsenal at the Emirates back in 2011 .
Club-record signing Ollie Watkins almost got his first Premier League goal in the first half , he blazed over after being picked out by Grealish .
The second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa made it three and , yet again , Scott Parker 's side 's defending was shoddy .
The ever-impressive Tyrone Mings then got in on the act to slide home his first goal since that deflected effort inside a packed-out Villa Park way back in January .
Mings , who was vocal throughout once more , converted Hourihane 's left-footed delivery , completely wrong-footing Areola in the Fulham goal .
Dean Smith 's side were n't home and hosed just then , though , as Aboubakar Kamara 's effort was missed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before Bobby De Cordova-Reid poked home the rebound .
Thankfully , a VAR decision went Villa 's way - now there 's a first !
- as referee Stuart Attwell checked the monitor to see Aleksander Mitrovic fouled Ezri Konsa in the build up .
Fulham struck the woodward late on when Martinez saved well from Joe Bryan 's long ranger .
In the end , Villa held firm and had even more chances of their own with Grealish , Watkins and Mings again going close late on .
The emphatic result puts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European places as they host Stoke in the cup on Thursday before entertaining champions Liverpool next week prior to the international break .
The victory at Fulham was statement-like as it banished their away-day blues of last season to give supporters hope for what promises to be a thoroughly enjoyable - and special - year ahead .
You just never know , a top-half finish could well be on the cards .

Aston Villa cruised to victory at Craven Cottage to claim their first win at Fulham in more than a decade.
It was Villa's rampant - and clinical - first-half showing that did all the damage with Villa skipper Jack Grealish opening the scoring after just four minutes.
The 25-year-old latched onto the brilliant John McGinn's reverse pass and Grealish did the rest, keeping his cool to slot underneath the advancing Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.
A little over 10 minutes later, it was Grealish who took it right to the heart of the opposition again - this time turning provider as his quick throw-in allowed him to play a one-two with Ollie Watkins.
After getting the ball back, Grealish found McGinn and it was the Scot's little set that allowed Conor Hourihane to spank home to make it 2-0.
Villa were 2-0 up inside the first 15 minutes for the first time since beating Arsenal at the Emirates back in 2011.
Club-record signing Ollie Watkins almost got his first Premier League goal in the first half, he blazed over after being picked out by Grealish.
The second half was just three minutes old when Villa made it three and, yet again, Scott Parker's side's defending was shoddy.
The ever-impressive Tyrone Mings then got in on the act to slide home his first goal since that deflected effort inside a packed-out Villa Park way back in January.
Mings, who was vocal throughout once more, converted Hourihane's left-footed delivery, completely wrong-footing Areola in the Fulham goal.
Dean Smith's side weren't home and hosed just then, though, as Aboubakar Kamara's effort was missed by Mings and it meant Emi Martinez fumbled before Bobby De Cordova-Reid poked home the rebound.
Thankfully, a VAR decision went Villa's way - now there's a first! - as referee Stuart Attwell checked the monitor to see Aleksander Mitrovic fouled Ezri Konsa in the build up.
Fulham struck the woodward late on when Martinez saved well from Joe Bryan's long ranger.
In the end, Villa held firm and had even more chances of their own with Grealish, Watkins and Mings again going close late on.
The emphatic result puts Villa into the dizzy heights of the European places as they host Stoke in the cup on Thursday before entertaining champions Liverpool next week prior to the international break.
The victory at Fulham was statement-like as it banished their away-day blues of last season to give supporters hope for what promises to be a thoroughly enjoyable - and special - year ahead. You just never know, a top-half finish could well be on the cards.


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Cadbury strike deal with Birmingham City after Liverpool backlash

Chocolate giants Cadbury have struck a deal with Birmingham City to become the club 's official 'snacking partner ' .
The deal with Blues comes hot on the heels after a similar arrangement with Premier League champions Liverpool earlier this month that sparked a backlash from Brummies , who said the company was 'forgetting its roots ' .
Cadbury , an official partner of the Premier League , have been based in Bournville since the company was started by John Cadbury in 1824 .
Now they have partnered up with Blues , forging a new working relationship with Aitor Karanka @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three games of the new 2020-21 season .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Play Store and App Store Blues say the deal will focus on the club 's Inclusion Programme , a scheme that helps to develop skills and social opportunities within the local community .
`` What an exciting moment for Cadbury and Birmingham City , '' said Colin O ’ Toole , Cadbury 's associate director of marketing .
`` We are very proud to be working with a club so close to our heart in this way .
The club ’ s foundation and work in the community truly represents the Cadbury mentality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we can ’ t wait to remind the nation that there is a ‘ Glass and a Half ’ of generosity in everyone and every club we are partnered with . ''
And Blues fans have had their say on the partnership .
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here '' Glad they 've focused on their local area and history now , '' said one .
Another said : `` Cadburys as a shirt sponsor would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club deserves respect and recognition for this , '' said another .
`` Welcome neighbours ! ''
added a fourth fan while another said : `` Must have taken the Liverpool thing to heart , well in . ''

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Chocolate giants Cadbury have struck a deal with Birmingham City to become the club's official 'snacking partner'.
The deal with Blues comes hot on the heels after a similar arrangement with Premier League champions Liverpool earlier this month that sparked a backlash from Brummies, who said the company was 'forgetting its roots'.
Cadbury, an official partner of the Premier League, have been based in Bournville since the company was started by John Cadbury in 1824.
Now they have partnered up with Blues, forging a new working relationship with Aitor Karanka's resurgent side who are unbeaten after three games of the new 2020-21 season.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Blues say the deal will focus on the club's Inclusion Programme, a scheme that helps to develop skills and social opportunities within the local community.
"What an exciting moment for Cadbury and Birmingham City," said Colin O’Toole, Cadbury's associate director of marketing.
"We are very proud to be working with a club so close to our heart in this way. The club’s foundation and work in the community truly represents the Cadbury mentality of working together to help others, and we can’t wait to remind the nation that there is a ‘Glass and a Half’ of generosity in everyone and every club we are partnered with."
And Blues fans have had their say on the partnership.
Sign up for our Blues newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
"Glad they've focused on their local area and history now," said one.
Another said: "Cadburys as a shirt sponsor would be great."
"Using initiative, club deserves respect and recognition for this," said another.
"Welcome neighbours!" added a fourth fan while another said: "Must have taken the Liverpool thing to heart, well in."


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Car thief jailed for 18 months

Car thief jailed for 18 months

A Walsall man has been jailed for stealing two cars in Staffordshire .
Matthew Bickley , of Essex Street , took a Mitsubishi Pajero in Armitage Road , Rugeley , on December 11 last year .
Just a few days later , on December 15 , he attempted to steal a Ford Focus in Hawthorn Road , Wheaton Aston .
The 40-year-old also stole a Ford Fiesta in Queen Street , Hednesford , on July 26 .
Bickley pleaded guilty to the three offences and was jailed for 18 months during a hearing at Stafford Crown Court on Monday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Detective Sergeant Richard Dancey , from Staffordshire Police , said : “ We are working hard to tackle vehicle crime and bring offenders before the courts.
” Operation Disrupt is currently running across Staffordshire and focusing on tackling criminal behaviour and during its first week , officers have made 77 arrests and seized cash , drugs and thousands of pounds of suspected stolen property .
Incidents have included the seizure of £19,000 in cash and £1,000 worth of cocaine in Stafford , where two arrests were made on Tuesday , September 22 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stoke on Sunday , September 27 , and £3,500 and cannabis seized in Tean .
Superintendent Tom Chisholm , Head of Neighbourhood Policing , added : “ Operation Disrupt is already achieving great results and cracking down on offending across the county .
“ We have made arrests for a range of offences , including burglary , carrying offensive weapons , possession of drugs , driving while under the influence and a number of individuals wanted by the courts .
`` This is merely the first week and we will continue to target @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tactics , supported by our specialist teams such as dogs and road policing .
”

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A Walsall man has been jailed for stealing two cars in Staffordshire.
Matthew Bickley, of Essex Street, took a Mitsubishi Pajero in Armitage Road, Rugeley, on December 11 last year.
Just a few days later, on December 15, he attempted to steal a Ford Focus in Hawthorn Road, Wheaton Aston.
The 40-year-old also stole a Ford Fiesta in Queen Street, Hednesford, on July 26.
Bickley pleaded guilty to the three offences and was jailed for 18 months during a hearing at Stafford Crown Court on Monday, September 21.
Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Richard Dancey, from Staffordshire Police, said: “We are working hard to tackle vehicle crime and bring offenders before the courts.”
Operation Disrupt is currently running across Staffordshire and focusing on tackling criminal behaviour and during its first week, officers have made 77 arrests and seized cash, drugs and thousands of pounds of suspected stolen property.
Incidents have included the seizure of £19,000 in cash and £1,000 worth of cocaine in Stafford, where two arrests were made on Tuesday, September 22, five arrested for suspected affray in Stoke on Sunday, September 27, and £3,500 and cannabis seized in Tean.
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Superintendent Tom Chisholm, Head of Neighbourhood Policing, added: “Operation Disrupt is already achieving great results and cracking down on offending across the county.
“We have made arrests for a range of offences, including burglary, carrying offensive weapons, possession of drugs, driving while under the influence and a number of individuals wanted by the courts.
"This is merely the first week and we will continue to target offending across the county using a range of tactics, supported by our specialist teams such as dogs and road policing.”


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Moped rider taken to hospital after crash near KFC

A moped rider was taken to hospital after a crash near KFC .
The collision , which also involved a @ @ @ @ @ Road , Cradley Heath , on Monday , September 28 .
Medics were called to @ @ @ @ @ , where they treated the rider before taking them to Dudley 's Russells Hall Hospital @ @ @ @ @ injuries is unknown .
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman told Black Country Live : @ @ @ @ @ reports of a collision between a car and a moped at just after 3.05pm on @ @ @ @ @ , near the KFC .
`` A non-emergency Patient Transport Service ambulance that was passing @ @ @ @ @ emergency ambulance arrived .
`` The moped rider was treated at the scene before being @ @ @ @ @ for further investigations . ''

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A moped rider was taken to hospital after a crash near KFC.
The collision, which also involved a car, happened on Halesowen Road, Cradley Heath, on Monday, September 28.
Medics were called to the scene at around 3.05pm, where they treated the rider before taking them to Dudley's Russells Hall Hospital.
The extent of their injuries is unknown.
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A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman told Black Country Live: "We were called to reports of a collision between a car and a moped at just after 3.05pm on Halesowen Road in Cradley Heath, near the KFC.
"A non-emergency Patient Transport Service ambulance that was passing stopped to assist until an emergency ambulance arrived.
"The moped rider was treated at the scene before being taken to Russells Hall Hospital for further investigations."


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Suspect knifeman tries to enter  train station 'armed with large blade'

A suspected knifeman was arrested at a city train station after 'doubling back ' to avoid a new knife arch , police said .
The man was heading for Sutton Coldfield station when officers clocked him backing away to evade detection on Monday , September 28 .
He was arrested by the eagle-eyed officers after he was allegedly found in possession of a knife and drugs .
Officers shared a photo of a large green knife , several bags of cannabis and three mobile phones back at the police station .
The arrest came after a knife arch was erected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint operation between Safer Travel Police and British Transport Police .
Taking to Twitter to celebrate 'one more knife off the streets ' , Safer Travel Police wrote : `` Arrest .
Joint knife arch op with BTP Birmingham today at Sutton Coldfield train station .
`` One man in custody after we noticed him double back away from the arch .
`` He was found in possession of this knife and drugs .
`` One more knife off the streets ! ''
If you want to report a crime , but you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the police , call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .
Crimestoppers will ask questions about the crime you have information on but will never ask questions about you .
If you are at all concerned your call could be traced , reassure yourself by dialling 141 before 0800 555 111 , which blocks your phone number .
Or use a phone box – it 's free .
Because Crimestoppers is an 0800 number , calls are free from a landline and do n't show up on a BT or cable phone bill .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ anonymously with Crimestoppers online .

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A suspected knifeman was arrested at a city train station after 'doubling back' to avoid a new knife arch, police said.
The man was heading for Sutton Coldfield station when officers clocked him backing away to evade detection on Monday, September 28.
He was arrested by the eagle-eyed officers after he was allegedly found in possession of a knife and drugs.
Officers shared a photo of a large green knife, several bags of cannabis and three mobile phones back at the police station.
The arrest came after a knife arch was erected at the station as part of a joint operation between Safer Travel Police and British Transport Police.
Taking to Twitter to celebrate 'one more knife off the streets', Safer Travel Police wrote: "Arrest. Joint knife arch op with BTP Birmingham today at Sutton Coldfield train station.
"One man in custody after we noticed him double back away from the arch.
"He was found in possession of this knife and drugs.
"One more knife off the streets!"
How to report crime anonymously
If you want to report a crime, but you do not want to be identified to the police, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Crimestoppers will ask questions about the crime you have information on but will never ask questions about you.
If you are at all concerned your call could be traced, reassure yourself by dialling 141 before 0800 555 111, which blocks your phone number.
Or use a phone box – it's free.
Because Crimestoppers is an 0800 number, calls are free from a landline and don't show up on a BT or cable phone bill.
Alternatively, you can report a crime anonymously with Crimestoppers online.


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Man charged with firearms possession after armed police raid home

A 19-year-old man has been charged with possessing a firearm after armed police swooped on a home .
West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ a `` planned firearms warrant '' at a property on Aldridge Road , in the @ @ @ @ @ city , at 7.30am on Friday , September 25 .
Dalton Travers , 19 , @ @ @ @ @ , was arrested and later charged with possession of a firearm and production of a @ @ @ @ @ appeared at Birmingham Magistrates ' Court on Saturday , September 26 .
He was later @ @ @ @ @ before a judge at Birmingham Crown Court on October 23 .
A West Midlands Police @ @ @ @ @ officers conducted a planned firearms warrant at a property on Aldridge Road in Birmingham at @ @ @ @ @ September ) .
`` Dalton Travers , of Aldridge Road , in Birmingham , was @ @ @ @ @ firearm and production of a class B drug .
The 19-year-old appeared at Birmingham Magistrates @ @ @ @ @ September ) . ''

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A 19-year-old man has been charged with possessing a firearm after armed police swooped on a home.
West Midlands Police said it carried out a "planned firearms warrant" at a property on Aldridge Road, in the Great Barr area of the city, at 7.30am on Friday, September 25.
Dalton Travers, 19, of Aldridge Road, Birmingham, was arrested and later charged with possession of a firearm and production of a class B drug.
He appeared at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Saturday, September 26. He was later remanded into custody to appear before a judge at Birmingham Crown Court on October 23.
A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said: "Armed officers conducted a planned firearms warrant at a property on Aldridge Road in Birmingham at 7.30am on Friday (25 September).
"Dalton Travers, of Aldridge Road, in Birmingham, was charged with possession of a firearm and production of a class B drug. The 19-year-old appeared at Birmingham Magistrates Court on Saturday (26 September)."


birminghammail--2020-09-28--Watch tear-jerking moment couple reunite at care home window

This is the emotional moment a husband and wife reunite through the window of a care home for their wedding anniversary .
The video above shows a tearful Matthew Nicholson , 82 , waving at his wife Catherine , 81 , as care home staff bring her a cake and a card to celebrate their wedding anniversary .
The celebration nearly did not go ahead as Mr Nicholson had initially been told he could no longer wave at his wife through the care home window because he lives in Hockey Heath , Solihull , which is currently under local lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see her on their 63rd wedding anniversary after a U-turn by health bosses .
The great grandfather-of-18 - currently living with his daughter in Worcester - was fearful she might not remember him as she suffers from dementia .
It followed an absence of three-weeks after he had previously made lockdown visits at MHA Cedar Lodge Nursing & Dementia Care Home , in Henley in Arden , Warwickshire , since April .
The care home said it follows guidance from Public Health authorities before reversing its decision to allow the window visit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During the visit on Friday ( September 25 ) , Mr Nicholson also called on PM Boris Johnson and Public Health authorities to allow window visits for other families to ensure everyone is able to see their loved ones in care homes as it 's `` all in life they want . ''
`` For over two years I 've been coming every morning to feed her or be there with her ( during lockdown ) , '' Mr Nicholson , a former school caretaker , told BirminghamLive .
`` Thanks to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own way .
I feel very privilged .
`` I 'm a bit concerned about this stupid idea that you ca n't look through a window at somebody .
There 's thousands of people in the same position that I 'm in that want to see their loved one in care homes .
`` It 's absolutely ridiculous .
I do n't know what Boris Johnson is thinking about - but I think he should look at that and get these people a chance to see their loved one because that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BirminghamLive has contacted Public Health England and Warwickshire County Council for comment over Covid-19 health guidance given to private care homes .
Mr Nicholson 's daughter Cat Snelling , 53 , added : `` I feel numb and tearful .
My dad is overwhelmed and grateful . ''
She added : `` What about a designated family member being tested to stop residents and families dying of sadness ?
`` This is madness as winter is here there will be no more garden visits due to the freezing temperatures .
`` Australia have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the devastation it is causing families .
They have placed pods outside a care home with partitions in and intercoms to allow families to spend 20-minutes together .
`` We have these screens in banks , shops and supermarkets .
Why ca n't we have a designated room in our care homes so our families can see each other ? ''
An MHA spokesperson for the care home told BirminghamLive : `` All visits to our care homes are kept under constant review and , following discussions and reassurances from the family , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start again .
`` We are still awaiting comment from local Public Health and , if they say the visits are not to happen , they will have to stop .
The family is aware of this . ''
The care home services provider also wished the pair `` a very happy wedding anniversary . ''
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson added : “ We know limiting visits in care homes has been very difficult for many families and residents who want to see their loved ones .
Our first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes and to protect staff and residents .
“ The process of considering visits should be led by the relevant local Director of Public Health , who should give a professional assessment of whether visiting is likely to be appropriate within their local authority , taking into account the wider risk environment .
“ The Adult Social Care Winter Plan sets out tightened infection prevention and control measures to enable visits to continue safely where possible .
We expect any area listed as an ‘ area of intervention ’ to immediately restrict visiting @ @ @ @ @ @

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This is the emotional moment a husband and wife reunite through the window of a care home for their wedding anniversary.
The video above shows a tearful Matthew Nicholson, 82, waving at his wife Catherine, 81, as care home staff bring her a cake and a card to celebrate their wedding anniversary.
The celebration nearly did not go ahead as Mr Nicholson had initially been told he could no longer wave at his wife through the care home window because he lives in Hockey Heath, Solihull, which is currently under local lockdown restrictions.
But he was finally allowed to see her on their 63rd wedding anniversary after a U-turn by health bosses.
The great grandfather-of-18 - currently living with his daughter in Worcester - was fearful she might not remember him as she suffers from dementia.
It followed an absence of three-weeks after he had previously made lockdown visits at MHA Cedar Lodge Nursing & Dementia Care Home, in Henley in Arden, Warwickshire, since April.
The care home said it follows guidance from Public Health authorities before reversing its decision to allow the window visit when BirminghamLive reported the ban last week.
During the visit on Friday (September 25), Mr Nicholson also called on PM Boris Johnson and Public Health authorities to allow window visits for other families to ensure everyone is able to see their loved ones in care homes as it's "all in life they want."
"For over two years I've been coming every morning to feed her or be there with her (during lockdown)," Mr Nicholson, a former school caretaker, told BirminghamLive.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"Thanks to everyone who has tried to help in their own way. I feel very privilged.
"I'm a bit concerned about this stupid idea that you can't look through a window at somebody. There's thousands of people in the same position that I'm in that want to see their loved one in care homes.
"It's absolutely ridiculous. I don't know what Boris Johnson is thinking about - but I think he should look at that and get these people a chance to see their loved one because that's all in life they want."
Mr Nicholson's daughter Cat Snelling, 53, added: "I feel numb and tearful. My dad is overwhelmed and grateful."
She added: "What about a designated family member being tested to stop residents and families dying of sadness?
"This is madness as winter is here there will be no more garden visits due to the freezing temperatures.
"Australia have dealt with this situation already due to the devastation it is causing families. They have placed pods outside a care home with partitions in and intercoms to allow families to spend 20-minutes together.
"We have these screens in banks, shops and supermarkets. Why can't we have a designated room in our care homes so our families can see each other?"
An MHA spokesperson for the care home told BirminghamLive: "All visits to our care homes are kept under constant review and, following discussions and reassurances from the family, the window visits will be able to start again.
"We are still awaiting comment from local Public Health and, if they say the visits are not to happen, they will have to stop. The family is aware of this."
The care home services provider also wished the pair "a very happy wedding anniversary."
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson added: “We know limiting visits in care homes has been very difficult for many families and residents who want to see their loved ones. Our first priority is to prevent infections in care homes and to protect staff and residents.
“The process of considering visits should be led by the relevant local Director of Public Health, who should give a professional assessment of whether visiting is likely to be appropriate within their local authority, taking into account the wider risk environment.
“The Adult Social Care Winter Plan sets out tightened infection prevention and control measures to enable visits to continue safely where possible. We expect any area listed as an ‘area of intervention’ to immediately restrict visiting to exceptional circumstances only.”
Dr. Shade Agboola, the Director of Public Health for Warwickshire County Council, added: "In the fight against Covid-19, Warwickshire County Council is working hard to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities.
“In line with the guidance from Central Government around visitors in care homes, we have advised that in areas with a high possibility of community transmission in the County that care homes close to all visitors, except for all professional health care staff and for compassionate reasons. At this moment, we have advised that in these areas closed window visits can continue. This is currently the situation for Rugby Borough.
"In other areas of the County we have advised homes to broadly follow the national care home visiting guidance, which allows for visiting to occur, but following a strict risk assessment process.
"However, the arrangements for visits are ultimately the decision of the registered manager of a setting, as they know their setting and residents best. We will continue to work in line with Government guidelines to support all care homes across the county to help to help protect the most vulnerable and reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19."


birminghammail--2020-09-28--'Ramsey getting his chance!' - Aston Villa fans react to Fulham team news

Aston Villa fans have been reacting to tonight 's team news for tonight 's Premier League clash with Fulham./ Villa continue their Premier League campaign tonight when they travel to Craven Cottage and head coach Dean Smith has selected his matchday 18 .
Emiliano Martinez starts in goal after his penalty heroics in a 1-0 defeat of Sheffield United last time out , while the back four is made up of Matty Cash , Ezri Konsa , Tyrone Mings and Matt Targett .
Conor Hourihane , Douglas Luiz and John McGinn make up the midfield while centre-forward Ollie Watkins is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wings .
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 ?
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Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
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If you decide later that you no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n'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 .
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Google Play Store and App Store Jed Steer starts on the substitute 's bench alongside Bertrand Traore , Marvelous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Keinan Davis and academy product Jacob Ramsey .
And Villa supporters have offered their reaction to the announcement , with Ramsey on the bench in the Premier League for the first time .
`` Ca n't argue with any of that , '' one fan said .
`` Right call to start Trez , '' said another .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here A third fan added : `` Like the look of the team .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ chance ! ''
said a fourth .
`` Traore and Ramsey give up decent options from the bench , '' a fifth fan added .

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birminghammail--2020-09-28--Slot venue in Brum wins licence despite complaint by betting shop

A slot machine venue in Birmingham city centre has been successful in gaining a licence despite objections from another gambling shop next door .
Talarius has gained a licence from a Birmingham City Council licensing sub-committee to open an Admiral adult gaming centre in High Street , city centre .
The application had been objected to by Betfred , which runs an adjacent , existing betting shop , who said there were high levels of crime and this could be a “ tipping point ” .
The gambling licence was granted by the sub-committee on the condition that Talarius surrenders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Square within six weeks of opening .
During the meeting , a representative for Talarius said there was no evidence the new venue would negatively impact on crime in the area .
He added that “ all venues have a long record of responsible and compliant management.
” The representative said customers with gambling addictions would be offered measures to take a break from gambling .
Councillors also heard the AGCs were “ low stake and relatively low jackpot ” and customers who seemed to be drunk would not be able to enter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including chair Cllr Nagina Kauser ( Lab ) , Cllr Nicky Brennan ( Lab ) and Cllr Adam Higgs ( Con ) stated : “ The sub-committee did not consider that there was evidence that the applicant company would be unable to operate safely , even in a ‘ difficult ’ area .
“ The applicant company ’ s premises situated nearby ( Priory Square shopping centre ) had operated without incident for a considerable period .
“ Whilst there were certainly problems of anti-social behaviour in the area , created by homeless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ congregate there , and also a homeless soup kitchen in close proximity , the applicant ’ s style of operation was capable of addressing such issues , such that the objectives could be upheld .
“ The proposals for CCTV and a SIA [ Security Industry Authority ] registered doorman would act as a deterrent ; this reassured the sub-committee .
“ The risks relating to youngsters ( schoolchildren and young college students ) using the bus stops and tram stops on the High Street and visiting the branch of McDonald ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also unlikely to be a problem given that the applicant company was a responsible operator.
” “ The sub-committee considers the condition imposed to be appropriate , reasonable and proportionate to address concerns raised .
”

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A slot machine venue in Birmingham city centre has been successful in gaining a licence despite objections from another gambling shop next door.
Talarius has gained a licence from a Birmingham City Council licensing sub-committee to open an Admiral adult gaming centre in High Street, city centre.
The application had been objected to by Betfred, which runs an adjacent, existing betting shop, who said there were high levels of crime and this could be a “tipping point”.
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The gambling licence was granted by the sub-committee on the condition that Talarius surrenders its licence for another venue at Priory Square within six weeks of opening.
During the meeting, a representative for Talarius said there was no evidence the new venue would negatively impact on crime in the area.
He added that “all venues have a long record of responsible and compliant management.”
The representative said customers with gambling addictions would be offered measures to take a break from gambling.
Councillors also heard the AGCs were “low stake and relatively low jackpot” and customers who seemed to be drunk would not be able to enter.
The decision by the sub-committee, including chair Cllr Nagina Kauser (Lab), Cllr Nicky Brennan (Lab) and Cllr Adam Higgs (Con) stated: “The sub-committee did not consider that there was evidence that the applicant company would be unable to operate safely, even in a ‘difficult’ area.
“The applicant company’s premises situated nearby (Priory Square shopping centre) had operated without incident for a considerable period.
“Whilst there were certainly problems of anti-social behaviour in the area, created by homeless people and drug users who seemed to congregate there, and also a homeless soup kitchen in close proximity, the applicant’s style of operation was capable of addressing such issues, such that the objectives could be upheld.
“The proposals for CCTV and a SIA [Security Industry Authority] registered doorman would act as a deterrent; this reassured the sub-committee.
“The risks relating to youngsters (schoolchildren and young college students) using the bus stops and tram stops on the High Street and visiting the branch of McDonald’s Restaurants in the immediate vicinity, were also unlikely to be a problem given that the applicant company was a responsible operator.”
“The sub-committee considers the condition imposed to be appropriate, reasonable and proportionate to address concerns raised.”


birminghammail--2020-09-29--Lidl unveils new instant coffee range including Halloween-themed Pumpkin Spice

The arrival of autumn and its cooler weather means warming drinks are on our mind more than ever .
And @ @ @ @ @ new autumnal range of instant coffees in three flavours including Halloween-inspired Pumpkin Spice .
It @ @ @ @ @ our coffee shop favourites while working from home for a fraction of the price - @ @ @ @ @ The Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffees range includes Cinder Toffee , Pumpkin Spice , and Turkish @ @ @ @ @ just £1.99 per 50g jar .
The Pumpkin Spice coffee has a blend of warming @ @ @ @ @ the ideal comforting drink for the change of seasons .
The sweet taste of caramelised @ @ @ @ @ enjoyed with the Cinder Toffee flavour .
Lidl says its Turkish Delight flavour makes for @ @ @ @ @ The new range of instant coffee is completely sugar-free so it 's a great low-calorie @ @ @ @ @ favourites .
Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffees will be available in Lidl stores nationwide from Thursday @ @ @ @

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The arrival of autumn and its cooler weather means warming drinks are on our mind more than ever.
And now Lidl has launched a new autumnal range of instant coffees in three flavours including Halloween-inspired Pumpkin Spice.
It means we can can recreate our coffee shop favourites while working from home for a fraction of the price - just 8p per serving.
We all need some money-saving tips during the ongoing impact coronavirus pandemic so this might be a range worth trying.
(Image: Lidl)
The Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffees range includes Cinder Toffee, Pumpkin Spice, and Turkish Delight flavoured instant coffee for just £1.99 per 50g jar.
The Pumpkin Spice coffee has a blend of warming spices including cinnamon to create the ideal comforting drink for the change of seasons.
The sweet taste of caramelised toffee and coffee can be enjoyed with the Cinder Toffee flavour.
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Lidl says the Turkish Delight flavour makes for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
The new range of instant coffee is completely sugar-free so it's a great low-calorie alternative to the usual autumnal favourites.
Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffees will be available in Lidl stores nationwide from Thursday, October 8.


birminghammail--2020-09-29--Sex doll maker slams Phil and Holly for 'judging' her on This Morning

This Morning viewers were left divided after a `` weird '' guest appeared on ITV1 today .
Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby presented the show on Tuesday September 29 .
They were joined by Bella , a life size doll .
Jade Stanley , its developer , appeared on the show too via video link , saying : `` This is very much a companion . ''
Holly replied : `` But how ?
...
It 's a doll , it 's made of plastic ...
I 'm not sure whether I would feel more lonely having that in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Phil asked : `` [ Have ] some people have modelled them on partners they have lost in bereavement ? ''
Jade confirmed this was the case because it `` provides comfort '' .
Speaking about the £1,300 dolls , she asked the presenters : `` Who are we to judge ? ''
`` I think I 'm helping change that perception on sex dolls - there 's so much more to them . ''
Jade added : `` They offer so much more than just sex . ''
Revealing more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on , saying : `` People do want to come and view them , they do n't always want to remain anonymous . ''
Phil asked : `` Where do people put them at home ?
They 're too heavy to put them in the attic . ''
Holly added : `` Can I just say , I wo n't say who , but a member of the crew came in this morning , when the lights were off , and thought it was me sat there . ''
Holly then said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morning continues at 10am each weekday on ITV1 .

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This Morning viewers were left divided after a "weird" guest appeared on ITV1 today.
Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby presented the show on Tuesday September 29.
Silver-haired Schofe and Holly, 39, introduced a segment on sex dolls today.
They were joined by Bella, a life size doll.
Jade Stanley, its developer, appeared on the show too via video link, saying: "This is very much a companion."
Holly replied: "But how? ... It's a doll, it's made of plastic... I'm not sure whether I would feel more lonely having that in my life than just being on my own."
Phil asked: "[Have] some people have modelled them on partners they have lost in bereavement?"
Jade confirmed this was the case because it "provides comfort".
Speaking about the £1,300 dolls, she asked the presenters: "Who are we to judge?"
"I think I'm helping change that perception on sex dolls - there's so much more to them."
Jade added: "They offer so much more than just sex."
Revealing more about the controversial products, Jade ploughed on, saying: "People do want to come and view them, they don't always want to remain anonymous."
Phil asked: "Where do people put them at home? They're too heavy to put them in the attic."
Holly added: "Can I just say, I won't say who, but a member of the crew came in this morning, when the lights were off, and thought it was me sat there."
Holly then said: "I was shocked."
This Morning continues at 10am each weekday on ITV1.


birminghammail--2020-09-29--Popular plane-tracking websites hacked in mystery cyber attacks

Plane-tracking websites Flightradar24 and PlaneFinder have been hacked in a series of cyberattacks .
The incidents blocked users from accessing feeds following the 'sustained attacks ' on the sites that monitor traffic at UK , airports such as Birmingham , Heathrow , Manchester , Cardiff and further afield .
Flightradar24 said it had suffered three attacks in two days and it initially struggled to restore the service .
PlaneFinder said : `` There may be issues accessing PlaneFinder at the moment .
It seems it 's our turn to have our systems attacked .
Our team are working hard to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us , we will provide updates as we have them . ''
Both websites allow users to track the flight paths of commercial and private planes across the globe .
Some military services are also followed .
Flightradar24 lists about two million users and tracks 180,000 flights every day .
It includes aircraft manufacturers - such as Airbus and Boeing - among its customers .
The site can identify an aircraft model , flight number , and distress signal codes .
It was reported to be operation again on Tuesday , however users @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Many plane spotters use the service free-of-charge but there is a more detailed option that can be accessed with a subscription .
There were online claims that the cyber-attacks were the work of various foreign government agencies involved in the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan .

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Plane-tracking websites Flightradar24 and PlaneFinder have been hacked in a series of cyberattacks.
The incidents blocked users from accessing feeds following the 'sustained attacks' on the sites that monitor traffic at UK, airports such as Birmingham, Heathrow, Manchester, Cardiff and further afield.
Flightradar24 said it had suffered three attacks in two days and it initially struggled to restore the service.
PlaneFinder said: "There may be issues accessing PlaneFinder at the moment. It seems it's our turn to have our systems attacked. Our team are working hard to restore normal service. Please bear with us, we will provide updates as we have them."
Both websites allow users to track the flight paths of commercial and private planes across the globe. Some military services are also followed.
Flightradar24 lists about two million users and tracks 180,000 flights every day. It includes aircraft manufacturers - such as Airbus and Boeing - among its customers.
The site can identify an aircraft model, flight number, and distress signal codes. It was reported to be operation again on Tuesday, however users were still complaining of various loading issues.
Many plane spotters use the service free-of-charge but there is a more detailed option that can be accessed with a subscription.
There were online claims that the cyber-attacks were the work of various foreign government agencies involved in the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.


birminghammail--2020-09-29--Shots fired at college room full of students - patrols stepped up

Patrols outside a college have been stepped up after a bullet was fired through a classroom window as students were taught inside .
West Midlands Police said reassurance patrols in Paget Road and around the City of Wolverhampton College were ongoing after two shots were fired just after 2.30pm on Monday September 28 .
Nobody was injured but the bullet hit the wall of the classroom , which is opposite St Judes C Of E Primary School .
Students and staff were moved to a place of safety by staff and police .
Officers have been searching the area and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where the shots came from and nobody has yet been arrested over the incident .
Chief Insp Hasson Shigdar , from Wolverhampton Policing Unit , said : `` We are deeply concerned that a firearm has been discharged in broad daylight in the vicinity of the college and also a primary school '' We are doing all that we can to trace those responsible and I would ask anyone with information to contact us urgently .
`` We do not believe that anyone in the college was targeted as the view into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased our patrols to offer reassurance to students and residents in the area .
`` We have liaised with the college who are also supporting their students and staff . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jordan Coussins, Kelly Ashmore)

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Patrols outside a college have been stepped up after a bullet was fired through a classroom window as students were taught inside.
West Midlands Police said reassurance patrols in Paget Road and around the City of Wolverhampton College were ongoing after two shots were fired just after 2.30pm on Monday September 28.
Nobody was injured but the bullet hit the wall of the classroom, which is opposite St Judes C Of E Primary School.
Students and staff were moved to a place of safety by staff and police.
Officers have been searching the area and studying CCTV but it was not known where the shots came from and nobody has yet been arrested over the incident.
Chief Insp Hasson Shigdar, from Wolverhampton Policing Unit, said: "We are deeply concerned that a firearm has been discharged in broad daylight in the vicinity of the college and also a primary school
"We are doing all that we can to trace those responsible and I would ask anyone with information to contact us urgently.
"We do not believe that anyone in the college was targeted as the view into the building is restricted, however we have increased our patrols to offer reassurance to students and residents in the area.
"We have liaised with the college who are also supporting their students and staff."


birminghammail--2020-09-29--Man arrested in kidnap probe as woman and child bundled into car

Police made an arrest after a sharp-eyed member of the public saw a motorist grab the woman by the neck and drag her and her child into a car .
They noted down the car 's details and immediately told police who were able to find the vehicle .
It happened in Tower Street , Coventry , at 12.30pm on Sunday , September 27 .
A member of the public reported seeing a crying woman being grabbed round the neck and abducted along with a young child .
The Ford Mondeo ’ s details - noted down by the caller @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` hot list '' and circulated to patrol units .
Officers conducted enquiries at an address linked to the vehicle and found it had recently been sold .
But , by going through social media accounts linked to the buyer , they were able to find images of the suspect .
While all this was going on , their colleagues were analysing Coventry ’ s network of Automatic Number Plate Recognition ( ANPR ) cameras in a bid to uncover a pattern of movement for the vehicle in recent days .
Yesterday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the area where the Mondeo was driven regularly between 6.30am and 7.30am , spotted the car and arrested a man .
A 24-year-old , who lives in Wood End , Coventry , was detained on suspicion of kidnap .
The victim - who was known to the man - was later found safe and well at an address in the city .
He was charged with driving without a licence and insurance and at Coventry Magistrates ' Court yesterday was bailed in relation to the kidnap with strict conditions not to contact the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from West Midlands Police 's Public Protection Unit , said : “ The 999 call was really worrying .
We understood this to be a domestic incident and the concern was that if this man could display such aggression in public , what could happen behind closed doors .
“ It was imperative we identified the suspect and woman as quickly as possible .
The responding officers did a great job to gather quick-time intelligence on the car and suspect – and the forensic analysis of road cameras helped us build up a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The man has been bailed to give us time to complete ID parades with witnesses and gather more evidence .
Referrals have also been made to children ’ s services .
”

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A man bundled a woman and child into a car - sparking a kidnap probe.
Police made an arrest after a sharp-eyed member of the public saw a motorist grab the woman by the neck and drag her and her child into a car.
They noted down the car's details and immediately told police who were able to find the vehicle.
It happened in Tower Street, Coventry, at 12.30pm on Sunday, September 27. A member of the public reported seeing a crying woman being grabbed round the neck and abducted along with a young child.
(Image: West Midlands Police)
The Ford Mondeo’s details - noted down by the caller - were put on a road camera "hot list" and circulated to patrol units.
Officers conducted enquiries at an address linked to the vehicle and found it had recently been sold. But, by going through social media accounts linked to the buyer, they were able to find images of the suspect.
While all this was going on, their colleagues were analysing Coventry’s network of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras in a bid to uncover a pattern of movement for the vehicle in recent days.
Yesterday, Monday, September 28, officers patrolled the area where the Mondeo was driven regularly between 6.30am and 7.30am, spotted the car and arrested a man.
A 24-year-old, who lives in Wood End, Coventry, was detained on suspicion of kidnap.
The victim - who was known to the man - was later found safe and well at an address in the city.
He was charged with driving without a licence and insurance and at Coventry Magistrates' Court yesterday was bailed in relation to the kidnap with strict conditions not to contact the victim.
Det Insp Chris Jones, from West Midlands Police's Public Protection Unit, said: “The 999 call was really worrying. We understood this to be a domestic incident and the concern was that if this man could display such aggression in public, what could happen behind closed doors.
“It was imperative we identified the suspect and woman as quickly as possible. The responding officers did a great job to gather quick-time intelligence on the car and suspect – and the forensic analysis of road cameras helped us build up a picture on its likely movements.
“The man has been bailed to give us time to complete ID parades with witnesses and gather more evidence. Referrals have also been made to children’s services.”


birminghammail--2020-09-29--Food and dining top complaints as whistle-blowers report businesses

More than one third of complaints to the council 's coronavirus whistle-blowing hotline were about food-related businesses , it has been revealed .
Papers due to be examined this week , show that more than 1,500 reports have been made to the council as of September 17 , with 360 of these about dining services .
And the lack of use of PPE was the most popular complaint from the public , with 433 reports coming in to the council .
The data shows the number of Requests for Assistance ( RFAs ) , also called job sheets , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
Of the 1,502 reports 360 were for dining services , 209 for hospitality , 173 for food retail and 47 for banqueting venues .
However the largest proportion of reports , 554 of the total , are listed as blank , with papers explaining that `` blank premises will be businesses that Regulatory Services do not normally have an interaction with .
( Non-food ; non licenced activities… these could be small offices , haberdasheries , solicitors , iron mongers etc ) . ''
The data also shows the most common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regards to Covid rule-breakers , with lack of PPE ( 433 ) and social distancing ( 331 ) being the most frequent named complaints .
However , again , the largest proportion of complaints fall under the 'not defined ' category , meaning no specific reason was given for the complaint when it was made .
Areas in and around the city centre were the most common source of complaints , with the council 's environmental health team putting together two maps to show where each complaint has come from .
And the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each complaint made to the council .
Of the 1,502 jobs reported to environmental health 882 are listed as 'currently open ' , with 134 deemed 'not justified ' , 299 resulting in 'compliance without enforcement ' and just 10 listed as 'non compliant , enforcement ' .
The report also notes 'over 50 per cent of the jobs undertaken required a verbal warning or enforcement ' , while 40 per cent 'were unjustified or compliant ' .
The papers are due to be discussed this Thursday ( Oct 1 ) by the @ @ @ @ @ @

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More than one third of complaints to the council's coronavirus whistle-blowing hotline were about food-related businesses, it has been revealed.
Papers due to be examined this week, show that more than 1,500 reports have been made to the council as of September 17, with 360 of these about dining services.
And the lack of use of PPE was the most popular complaint from the public, with 433 reports coming in to the council.
The data shows the number of Requests for Assistance (RFAs), also called job sheets, that have come into Environmental Health since February 2020.
Of the 1,502 reports 360 were for dining services, 209 for hospitality, 173 for food retail and 47 for banqueting venues.
However the largest proportion of reports, 554 of the total, are listed as blank, with papers explaining that "blank premises will be businesses that Regulatory Services do not normally have an interaction with. (Non-food; non licenced activities… these could be small offices, haberdasheries, solicitors, iron mongers etc)."
The data also shows the most common complaints coming in from the public in regards to Covid rule-breakers, with lack of PPE (433) and social distancing (331) being the most frequent named complaints.
However, again, the largest proportion of complaints fall under the 'not defined' category, meaning no specific reason was given for the complaint when it was made.
Areas in and around the city centre were the most common source of complaints, with the council's environmental health team putting together two maps to show where each complaint has come from.
And the data has also shown the result of each complaint made to the council.
Of the 1,502 jobs reported to environmental health 882 are listed as 'currently open', with 134 deemed 'not justified', 299 resulting in 'compliance without enforcement' and just 10 listed as 'non compliant, enforcement'.
The report also notes 'over 50 per cent of the jobs undertaken required a verbal warning or enforcement', while 40 per cent 'were unjustified or compliant'.
The papers are due to be discussed this Thursday (Oct 1) by the Local Covid Outbreak Engagement Board.