birminghammail--2020-05-31--Aston Villa dealt major injury blow ahead of Premier League return

Aston Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton has revealed it will be a big ask for him to return this season , despite his recovery from a serious knee injury going well .
Heaton has been out of action since the start of January , after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the win over Burnley at Turf Moor .
The coronavirus enforced suspension had raised hopes that the England international could return before the end of campaign , with the Premier League offering special dispensation for teams to add players into their squads .
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Google Play Store and App Store But he has now admitted that despite his positive progress , the start of next season is a more realistic proposition .
“ The injury is coming along really well .
We are four and-a-half months post-operation , give or take , '' he told Sky Sports .
“ But I 'm really pleased with the progress .
It feels solid and stable .
I 'm back out on the grass doing a bit of running and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up .
“ In reality , it 's going to be a big ask to get back in terms of this season .
“ But I 'm certainly hopeful to be ready to roll by the time the season kicks off next season , whenever that is going to be .
”

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Aston Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton has revealed it will be a big ask for him to return this season, despite his recovery from a serious knee injury going well.
Heaton has been out of action since the start of January, after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the win over Burnley at Turf Moor.
The coronavirus enforced suspension had raised hopes that the England international could return before the end of campaign, with the Premier League offering special dispensation for teams to add players into their squads.
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
But he has now admitted that despite his positive progress, the start of next season is a more realistic proposition.
“The injury is coming along really well. We are four and-a-half months post-operation, give or take," he told Sky Sports.
“But I'm really pleased with the progress. It feels solid and stable. I'm back out on the grass doing a bit of running and then I am slowly going to build it up.
“In reality, it's going to be a big ask to get back in terms of this season.
“But I'm certainly hopeful to be ready to roll by the time the season kicks off next season, whenever that is going to be.”


birminghammail--2020-05-31--'We've got to try' - EFL sent plea after West Brom update

Former Leeds United midfielder Michael Brown has said the EFL must ensure games are played at correct stadiums , in order to maintain fair play when the Championship resumes .
The restart of England 's second tier took another positive step this week after the Premier League unanimously voted for fixtures to resume next month .
The 24 Championship clubs are set to vote at the beginning of next month , with the choice of restarting the campaign , or resolving the season on a points-per-game basis .
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It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Leeds and West Brom , who occupy the top-two , are both keen for the season to resume , despite being in a position where a curtailment would lead to promotion .
But a report in the national press suggested Albion and Leeds could lose their home advantage , with league bosses set to put the promotion chasers ' games in neutral venues .
The EFL later suggested that was n't the plan and Brown has implored them to stick to their guns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fair as possible .
“ We ’ ve got to try and get all these games at the correct stadiums so we ’ ve got that fair play aspect of it , '' he told Football Insider .
“ We just know that , after all these hard times , the supporters have to understand the difficult situations .
Will there be one or two that go ?
Hopefully now , after what everyone ’ s been through , they ’ ll stay away from stadiums and that .
“ I think all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think it ’ s extremely close .
”

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Former Leeds United midfielder Michael Brown has said the EFL must ensure games are played at correct stadiums, in order to maintain fair play when the Championship resumes.
The restart of England's second tier took another positive step this week after the Premier League unanimously voted for fixtures to resume next month.
The 24 Championship clubs are set to vote at the beginning of next month, with the choice of restarting the campaign, or resolving the season on a points-per-game basis.
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 .
Leeds and West Brom, who occupy the top-two, are both keen for the season to resume, despite being in a position where a curtailment would lead to promotion.
But a report in the national press suggested Albion and Leeds could lose their home advantage, with league bosses set to put the promotion chasers' games in neutral venues.
The EFL later suggested that wasn't the plan and Brown has implored them to stick to their guns. to ensure the run-in is as fair as possible.
“We’ve got to try and get all these games at the correct stadiums so we’ve got that fair play aspect of it," he told Football Insider.
“We just know that, after all these hard times, the supporters have to understand the difficult situations. Will there be one or two that go? Hopefully now, after what everyone’s been through, they’ll stay away from stadiums and that.
“I think all the testing’s getting done, I think it’s extremely close.”


birminghammail--2020-05-31--How the NHS test and trace system works and what you need to do

The Government 's much-publicised coronavirus test and trace system was launched across England on Thursday , in a bid to discover people who may have been infected with Covid-19 .
Anyone testing positive for coronavirus will be contacted by one of the 25,000-strong , newly-hired NHS test and trace team .
They will begin a process to identify who has been in close contact with the sufferer , who must stay at home for 14 days .
The new system should have been be accompanied by a contact tracing app , that was trialled in the Isle of Wight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
This is how track and trace works Anyone found to be suffering from the virus will be instructed to self-isolate for 14 days .
The government has said it is essential people remain in confinement - even if they do not display symptoms .
Anyone suffering from symptoms of coronavirus and other members of their household must self-isolate immediately and book a test for the virus .
If it returns positive the patient must continue to stay at home for a further seven days and the test and trace team will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who most also isolate .
However , if the test returns negative , a patient must still complete a 14-day self-isolation period because the virus can take some time to become detectable .
This is how you will be contacted if you need to self-isolate You will be contacted by text message or email , with a telephone follow-up , and be directed to the NHS test and trace website .
Many people are concerned they my be contacted as part of a scam .
But the NHS test and trace team will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and send you text messages from ‘ NHS ’ .
You will never be asked to dial a premium rate number The legitimate test and trace message will only request your full name , date of birth and post code .
It will NEVER ask for personal details such as bank account details , passwords , or pin numbers .
You will NEVER be asked to make any form of payment for any product .
What happens if I have tested positive for coronavirus ?
Following a positive test , the NHS test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or call with instructions on how to share details of those you have shared recent close contact .
You will be requested to do this online or over the phone .
This is what you need to do if you are tested positive for coronavirus and requested to self-isolate .
• stay at home ( self-isolate ) for 14 days from the day you were last in contact with the person – it can take up to 14 days for symptoms to appear • do not leave your home for any reason – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order it online or by phone , or ask friends and family to drop it off at your home • do not have visitors in your home , including friends and family – except for essential care • try to avoid contact with anyone you live with as much as possible • people you live with do not need to self-isolate if you do not have symptoms

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The Government's much-publicised coronavirus test and trace system was launched across England on Thursday, in a bid to discover people who may have been infected with Covid-19.
Anyone testing positive for coronavirus will be contacted by one of the 25,000-strong, newly-hired NHS test and trace team.
They will begin a process to identify who has been in close contact with the sufferer, who must stay at home for 14 days.
The new system should have been be accompanied by a contact tracing app, that was trialled in the Isle of Wight, but it has been delayed by several weeks.
This is how track and trace works
Anyone found to be suffering from the virus will be instructed to self-isolate for 14 days. The government has said it is essential people remain in confinement - even if they do not display symptoms.
(Image: PA)
Anyone suffering from symptoms of coronavirus and other members of their household must self-isolate immediately and book a test for the virus.
If it returns positive the patient must continue to stay at home for a further seven days and the test and trace team will contact them to establish recent contacts, who most also isolate.
However, if the test returns negative, a patient must still complete a 14-day self-isolation period because the virus can take some time to become detectable.
This is how you will be contacted if you need to self-isolate
You will be contacted by text message or email, with a telephone follow-up, and be directed to the NHS test and trace website.
Many people are concerned they my be contacted as part of a scam.
But the NHS test and trace team will only ever call from 0300 013 5000 and send you text messages from ‘NHS’.
You will never be asked to dial a premium rate number
The legitimate test and trace message will only request your full name, date of birth and post code.
It will NEVER ask for personal details such as bank account details, passwords, or pin numbers.
You will NEVER be asked to make any form of payment for any product.
What happens if I have tested positive for coronavirus?
Following a positive test, the NHS test and trace service will text, email or call with instructions on how to share details of those you have shared recent close contact.
You will be requested to do this online or over the phone.
This is what you need to do if you are tested positive for coronavirus and requested to self-isolate.


birminghammail--2020-05-31--Drug use and 100-people gatherings sparks dispersal order at beauty spot

Police have been forced to enact a dispersal order at a popular beauty spot after bouts of anti-social behaviour during the latest phase of the coronavirus lockdown .
Since the restrictions were eased to allow the public to meet one other person outdoors a few weeks ago , groups of 100 people have been gathering and causing trouble at Earlswood Lakes , Warwickshire .
The force has been flooded with reports of anti-social behaviour - including problems with littering , parking , drug use , noise and groups congregating .
Warwickshire Police also said members of the public have called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lakes .
As temperatures rose on Saturday , May 30 , officers found themselves cleaning up after people who had left an 'awful mess ' at the beauty spot .
They have had to disperse huge groups of 100 and encourage them not to return to the lakes - but to no avail .
Now , officers from the Stratford District Safer Neighbourhood Team have put a dispersal order in place under section 34 of the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 .
This means officers will have the power to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reducing the likelihood of members of the public in the locality being harassed , alarmed , or distressed , or the occurrence of crime and disorder .
If people fail to disperse they can be arrested .
The order lasts until 1pm on Monday , June 1 and officers will be patrolling the area during this time .
Brummies , who are said to be among those heading to Earlswood Lakes , were warned of the order .
Birmingham Police shared the news and said : `` People from Birmingham are among those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ share . ''
Inspector Allison Wiggin from the Stratford Distrct Safer Neighbourhood Team said : “ There have been reports of groups of 100 people congregating and this is causing a lot of community tension during the Coronavirus pandemic .
`` We have tried to engage with the groups and encourage them to disperse and not come back ; but this has been ignored and we have been left with no option but to take this action .
“ My officers ended up cleaning up the awful mess left by people yesterday ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community , not picking up litter , but given the mess left behind we were left with no choice .
We will not tolerate this .
“ While this order is only in place until Monday , people should be under no illusion that this will be the end of our activity .
`` We will continue to police the area and clamp down on people behaving in an antisocial manner .
”

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Police have been forced to enact a dispersal order at a popular beauty spot after bouts of anti-social behaviour during the latest phase of the coronavirus lockdown.
Since the restrictions were eased to allow the public to meet one other person outdoors a few weeks ago, groups of 100 people have been gathering and causing trouble at Earlswood Lakes, Warwickshire.
The force has been flooded with reports of anti-social behaviour - including problems with littering, parking, drug use, noise and groups congregating.
Warwickshire Police also said members of the public have called to alert them to fish theft at the lakes.
(Image: c)
As temperatures rose on Saturday, May 30, officers found themselves cleaning up after people who had left an 'awful mess' at the beauty spot.
They have had to disperse huge groups of 100 and encourage them not to return to the lakes - but to no avail.
Now, officers from the Stratford District Safer Neighbourhood Team have put a dispersal order in place under section 34 of the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014.
This means officers will have the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed, or distressed, or the occurrence of crime and disorder.
If people fail to disperse they can be arrested. The order lasts until 1pm on Monday, June 1 and officers will be patrolling the area during this time.
Brummies, who are said to be among those heading to Earlswood Lakes, were warned of the order.
Birmingham Police shared the news and said: "People from Birmingham are among those heading here, so please read and share."
Inspector Allison Wiggin from the Stratford Distrct Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “There have been reports of groups of 100 people congregating and this is causing a lot of community tension during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"We have tried to engage with the groups and encourage them to disperse and not come back; but this has been ignored and we have been left with no option but to take this action.
“My officers ended up cleaning up the awful mess left by people yesterday; these officers should be policing their local community, not picking up litter, but given the mess left behind we were left with no choice. We will not tolerate this.
“While this order is only in place until Monday, people should be under no illusion that this will be the end of our activity.
"We will continue to police the area and clamp down on people behaving in an antisocial manner.”


birminghammail--2020-05-31--Tyrone Mings makes brutally honest Aston Villa admission

Tyrone Mings has admitted that the thought of Aston Villa being relegated without kicking a ball has crossed his mind .
The Premier League is set to return next month , after the 20 top-flight clubs agreed on a date for fixtures to resume .
It means that Villa will be given a chance to retain their Premier League status , with all points-per-game resolutions seeing Villa relegated back to the Championship .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on their relegation rivals and if they beat Sheffield United in the first game after the coronavirus enforced suspension , they will move out of the bottom three .
And Mings , speaking to the Daily Mail , has revealed his concerns over Villa potentially being relegated without playing another game .
“ I would be lying if I said it had never crossed my mind that we might be relegated without kicking another ball , '' he said .
“ What player wants to be relegated with 10 games left while also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we win that game in hand , we do n't go down on any points per game variations so it seemed so unfair that that could have been a possibility .
“ I wrote a Tweet some time ago that pointed out that if a player who plays for a team at the top of the league voices any concerns about safety , it is seen as OK .
But if someone connected with the bottom six , like Karren Brady at West Ham or Paul Barber at Brighton , does the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cynical .
He added : “ Leeds and West Brom fans would have a completely different view because they were worried about the season being voided and everyone has to take care of their own personal situation .
I have no problem with Leeds fans slaughtering me and saying I am selfish .
“ I have no problem with Liverpool fans trying to push the season through because they are on the cusp of one of the greatest achievements of recent years .
Everybody is fighting their own corner .
Football is based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on or not .
”

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Tyrone Mings has admitted that the thought of Aston Villa being relegated without kicking a ball has crossed his mind.
The Premier League is set to return next month, after the 20 top-flight clubs agreed on a date for fixtures to resume.
It means that Villa will be given a chance to retain their Premier League status, with all points-per-game resolutions seeing Villa relegated back to the Championship.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Villa have a game in hand on their relegation rivals and if they beat Sheffield United in the first game after the coronavirus enforced suspension, they will move out of the bottom three.
And Mings, speaking to the Daily Mail, has revealed his concerns over Villa potentially being relegated without playing another game.
“I would be lying if I said it had never crossed my mind that we might be relegated without kicking another ball," he said.
“What player wants to be relegated with 10 games left while also having a game in hand? If we win that game in hand, we don't go down on any points per game variations so it seemed so unfair that that could have been a possibility.
“I wrote a Tweet some time ago that pointed out that if a player who plays for a team at the top of the league voices any concerns about safety, it is seen as OK. But if someone connected with the bottom six, like Karren Brady at West Ham or Paul Barber at Brighton, does the same, it is deemed as selfish and cynical.
He added: “Leeds and West Brom fans would have a completely different view because they were worried about the season being voided and everyone has to take care of their own personal situation. I have no problem with Leeds fans slaughtering me and saying I am selfish.
“I have no problem with Liverpool fans trying to push the season through because they are on the cusp of one of the greatest achievements of recent years. Everybody is fighting their own corner. Football is based on opinions, whether there are games on or not.”


birminghammail--2020-05-31--Public urged to remain cautious as lockdown measures eased

The population has been warned not to push official guidelines as the government eases lockdown restrictions - with one expert claiming there could be a resurgence of coronavirus cases .
Small groups will be able to meet from Monday in England , and more than two million clinically extremely vulnerable people who have been shielding since March will be able to come out of confinement .
However , these new freedoms that will be introduced after a hot weekend which has enticed people to beaches and beauty spots , must be treated with caution , England ’ s deputy chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Van-Tam described the lockdown easing as a 'very dangerous moment , ' and insisted the Government and public had a “ dual responsibility ” to prevent a second wave .
Addressing the daily Downing Street briefing in stark terms , he said : “ Don ’ t tear the pants out of it , and don ’ t go further than the guidance actually says.
” The Government ’ s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance , writing in a Sunday newspaper , said ministers had to take “ many other factors into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) advice was “ independent of politics ” .
Sir Patrick wrote : “ Clearly it is right that ministers see the advice first and that they have a chance to consider it as part of their overall decision making , but I believe it is also right that the evidence base should become open for others to see too , so they can provide challenge and form new and important observations.
” His comments followed earlier concern from Government advisers about easing lockdown too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke out to warn that ministers are taking risks .
And on Saturday evening Professor Anthony Costello , a former World Health Organisation ( WHO ) director , posted a scathing message on Twitter warning of a possible resurgence of the virus .
He said : “ We have 8000 cases daily , a private testing system set up without connection to primary care , call-centre tracing that appears a fiasco , and no digital app .
After 4 months .
Unless the population has hidden ( T cell ? )
immunity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prof Van-Tam said scientists will be watching “ very closely ” how things go over the next few weeks .
Friends and family can meet in parks and gardens in socially distanced groups of six from Monday in England .
Those who have been shielding will get a slight reprieve when they are allowed to go outside with members of their household , while continuing to follow social distancing guidelines .
Those in this category who live alone can meet outside with one other person from another household .
The easing of restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group had been left feeling “ forgotten ” .
Meanwhile , the controversy over Boris Johnson ’ s senior aide Dominic Cummings , shows no sign of going away .
The Observer reported a letter sent by 26 senior UK academics and health administrators to Downing Street complained about the impact of the key adviser ’ s actions in driving from London to Durham with his wife and child during the lockdown .
The group also warned about problems introducing effective test , trace and isolate system to pinpoint and then quarantine newly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are now “ very concerned for the safety and wellbeing of the general public ” as the lockdown measures are relaxed , the newspaper reported .
The easing of England ’ s lockdown will also allow the reopening of schools to allow more students to return , while outdoor retailers and car showrooms are also able to resume tradingn .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson , writing in The Sun , urged schools to commit to “ welcoming more children back ” as a number of councils in England have said they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote : “ Covid-19 has made it even more difficult for some children to get the most from their education and we can not let the virus wreck the hopes and dreams of a generation .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Aine Fox, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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The population has been warned not to push official guidelines as the government eases lockdown restrictions - with one expert claiming there could be a resurgence of coronavirus cases.
Small groups will be able to meet from Monday in England, and more than two million clinically extremely vulnerable people who have been shielding since March will be able to come out of confinement.
However, these new freedoms that will be introduced after a hot weekend which has enticed people to beaches and beauty spots, must be treated with caution, England’s deputy chief medical officer has insisted.
Professor Jonathan Van-Tam described the lockdown easing as a 'very dangerous moment,' and insisted the Government and public had a “dual responsibility” to prevent a second wave.
(Image: PA)
Addressing the daily Downing Street briefing in stark terms, he said: “Don’t tear the pants out of it, and don’t go further than the guidance actually says.”
The Government’s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance, writing in a Sunday newspaper, said ministers had to take “many other factors into consideration” in making decisions, and that Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) advice was “independent of politics”.
Sir Patrick wrote: “Clearly it is right that ministers see the advice first and that they have a chance to consider it as part of their overall decision making, but I believe it is also right that the evidence base should become open for others to see too, so they can provide challenge and form new and important observations.”
His comments followed earlier concern from Government advisers about easing lockdown too soon.
Four members of Sage have spoke out to warn that ministers are taking risks.
And on Saturday evening Professor Anthony Costello, a former World Health Organisation (WHO) director, posted a scathing message on Twitter warning of a possible resurgence of the virus.
He said: “We have 8000 cases daily, a private testing system set up without connection to primary care, call-centre tracing that appears a fiasco, and no digital app. After 4 months. Unless the population has hidden (T cell?) immunity, we’re heading for resurgence.”
Prof Van-Tam said scientists will be watching “very closely” how things go over the next few weeks.
Friends and family can meet in parks and gardens in socially distanced groups of six from Monday in England.
Those who have been shielding will get a slight reprieve when they are allowed to go outside with members of their household, while continuing to follow social distancing guidelines.
Those in this category who live alone can meet outside with one other person from another household.
The easing of restrictions for those shielding follows criticism that this group had been left feeling “forgotten”.
Meanwhile, the controversy over Boris Johnson’s senior aide Dominic Cummings, shows no sign of going away.
The Observer reported a letter sent by 26 senior UK academics and health administrators to Downing Street complained about the impact of the key adviser’s actions in driving from London to Durham with his wife and child during the lockdown.
The group also warned about problems introducing effective test, trace and isolate system to pinpoint and then quarantine newly infected people.
As a result, they are now “very concerned for the safety and wellbeing of the general public” as the lockdown measures are relaxed, the newspaper reported.
The easing of England’s lockdown will also allow the reopening of schools to allow more students to return, while outdoor retailers and car showrooms are also able to resume tradingn.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson, writing in The Sun, urged schools to commit to “welcoming more children back” as a number of councils in England have said they will keep them closed on Monday.
He wrote: “Covid-19 has made it even more difficult for some children to get the most from their education and we cannot let the virus wreck the hopes and dreams of a generation.”


birminghammail--2020-05-31--Schoolboy caught up in hair row is now the face of World Afro Day

A Tipton schoolboy who was banned from the playground over his 'extreme ' haircut is now one of the faces of World Afro Day .
The ‘ skin fade style ’ sported by Josiah Sharpe caused controversy last year for going against his school 's strict hair policy .
His mother , Danica , claimed the rules `` lacked cultural awareness '' .
She argued the haircut helped to hide Josiah 's traction alopecia and also gave him a “ smart , tidy appearance ” .
But as it fell below a grade two - which is `` strictly forbidden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ youngster , then aged five , lost his playtimes until it grew back to a satisfactory length .
The fall-out eventually led to Josiah working from home instead of school and 'wishing he was n't black ' .
Danica added : `` It was really upsetting for me .
As it stands , the school still has the grade two hair policy in place but Josiah is allowed a grade one hair cut on medical grounds .
`` I still believe the grade two hair policy needs to be changed , not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Josiah 's struggle has led to him being part of a competition to celebrate World Afro Day on September 15 .
The Top Ten Model competition gives those aged between six and 18 the opportunity to beat the lockdown blues by creating a short video clip to share their afro hair story .
Entries will be judged by 18-year-old Ruby Williams - who recently received a payout for afro hair discrimination - Scottish supermodel Eunice Olumide and TV medic , Dr Zoe Williams .
Josiah has filmed an example video to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to enter .
In the clip - which can be viewed above - the seven-year-old explains why he now loves his `` big , fluffy afro '' .
`` I love afro hair because it 's big and strong , '' he said .
`` It is part of who we are .
I wish people understood and celebrated it more so other people could learn about it and respect it .
`` When I was five-years-old I got sent home because I had a skin fade , they did n't understand my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's neat and tidy .
`` Since then , I 've had a positive experience and I even got included in a hair documentary . ''
People have until July 17 to submit their clips and the winner will receive a goody bag , expert model coaching , a magazine feature , professional photoshoot and styling by Purely Natural Salon and star in a celebration film .
More information about the competition can be found here .
Danica added : `` It ’ s not about being a model but about our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afro hair , which I feel is very needed when we still have a number of schools with policies in place that can make Josiah feel the way he once did about his afro hair .
`` Michelle De Leon , the founder of World Afro Day has been very supportive from the start after hearing Josiah ’ s story and doing this video has helped to improve his confidence about his hair .
`` As a mother it is great to see him being a positive example to other young people that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has and still love and embrace not only his hair but the skin he is in . ''

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A Tipton schoolboy who was banned from the playground over his 'extreme' haircut is now one of the faces of World Afro Day.
The ‘skin fade style’ sported by Josiah Sharpe caused controversy last year for going against his school's strict hair policy.
His mother, Danica, claimed the rules "lacked cultural awareness". She argued the haircut helped to hide Josiah's traction alopecia and also gave him a “smart, tidy appearance”.
But as it fell below a grade two - which is "strictly forbidden" at Summerhill Primary Academy - the youngster, then aged five, lost his playtimes until it grew back to a satisfactory length.
(Image: Facebook)
The fall-out eventually led to Josiah working from home instead of school and 'wishing he wasn't black'.
Danica added: "It was really upsetting for me. As it stands, the school still has the grade two hair policy in place but Josiah is allowed a grade one hair cut on medical grounds.
"I still believe the grade two hair policy needs to be changed, not only for Josiah’s school but nationally."
Josiah's struggle has led to him being part of a competition to celebrate World Afro Day on September 15.
The Top Ten Model competition gives those aged between six and 18 the opportunity to beat the lockdown blues by creating a short video clip to share their afro hair story.
Entries will be judged by 18-year-old Ruby Williams - who recently received a payout for afro hair discrimination - Scottish supermodel Eunice Olumide and TV medic, Dr Zoe Williams.
Josiah has filmed an example video to share his story and show people how to enter.
In the clip - which can be viewed above - the seven-year-old explains why he now loves his "big, fluffy afro".
(Image: Handout)
"I love afro hair because it's big and strong," he said.
"It is part of who we are. I wish people understood and celebrated it more so other people could learn about it and respect it.
"When I was five-years-old I got sent home because I had a skin fade, they didn't understand my hair needed to be like this so it's neat and tidy.
"Since then, I've had a positive experience and I even got included in a hair documentary."
People have until July 17 to submit their clips and the winner will receive a goody bag, expert model coaching, a magazine feature, professional photoshoot and styling by Purely Natural Salon and star in a celebration film.
More information about the competition can be found here.
Danica added: "It’s not about being a model but about our young people embracing and feeling empowered with afro hair, which I feel is very needed when we still have a number of schools with policies in place that can make Josiah feel the way he once did about his afro hair.
"Michelle De Leon, the founder of World Afro Day has been very supportive from the start after hearing Josiah’s story and doing this video has helped to improve his confidence about his hair.
"As a mother it is great to see him being a positive example to other young people that may come against the same challenges he has and still love and embrace not only his hair but the skin he is in."


birminghammail--2020-05-31--From B&M thief to disqualified drivers - In court this week

A thief who swiped alcohol and deodorant from B & M and a man who was drunk and disorderly in Wolverhampton have appeared before courts across the Black Country this week .
Also in the dock was a disqualified driver caught behind the wheel in Dudley .
Here are the latest cases from Black Country Magistrates ' Court : A B & M thief has been sent to prison for 14 weeks .
Sam Johnson stole alcohol and deodorant , worth £49.39 , from the West Bromwich store on May 27 .
The 32-year-old , of no fixed address , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man has been jailed for assaulting a woman .
Sebastian Blake was sentenced to 10 weeks behind bars following the incident , which happened in Friar Park , Wednesbury , on April 19 .
He was also sentenced for using threatening , abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause a person to believe violence would be used against them on the same date .
The 29-year-old , of Beaconview Road , West Bromwich , was ordered to pay £100 compensation , a victim surcharge of £128 and £135 court costs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after he was caught behind the wheel in Smethwick .
Gheorghe Iordache , of Thompson Road , Smethwick , was also sentenced for driving without insurance on September 9 last year and failing to surrender to Dudley Magistrates ' Court on October 29 , 2019 , having been released on bail .
The 45-year-old was given a four week curfew and for the duration must remain at his home address between 4pm and 4am .
He must also pay a victim surcharge of £85 and £135 court costs .
A man has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caught driving while disqualified .
Rakesh Lal was also sentenced for driving without insurance and possessing cannabis in Rowley Regis on May 27 .
The 38-year-old , of Kent Road , Halesowen , was banned from driving for 50 months and must pay a victims surcharge of £128 .
A 30-year-old was jailed for driving while disqualified .
Jonathan Shead was caught behind the wheel of a Ford Transit can in Selborne Road , Dudley , on May 26 .
He was also sentenced for obstructing a police officer in the execution of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MOT .
Shead , of Watsons Green Road , Dudley , was sent to prison for 20 weeks and disqualified from driving for five years .
He must also pay a £500 fine , victim surcharge of £128 and £135 court costs .
A 25-year-old has been fined £100 for being drunk and disorderly in Wolverhampton .
Rhys Dillon , of Parkfield Road , Wolverhampton , must also pay a victim surcharge of £35 and £135 court costs following the offence , which happened on May 21 .
A man has been sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolverhampton .
Jonathon Chestnutt , of Primrose Avenue , Wolverhampton , was jailed for 18 weeks following the incident , which happened on April 14 .
He was also sentenced for damaging a mobile phone , worth £100 , on the same day and breaching a non-molestation order in Wolverhampton on May 20 .
Steven Messe , of Thornhill Road , Quarry Bank , stole chocolate , worth £220 from Co-op on October 15 last year .

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A thief who swiped alcohol and deodorant from B&M and a man who was drunk and disorderly in Wolverhampton have appeared before courts across the Black Country this week.
Also in the dock was a disqualified driver caught behind the wheel in Dudley.
Here are the latest cases from Black Country Magistrates' Court:
West Bromwich
A B&M thief has been sent to prison for 14 weeks.
Sam Johnson stole alcohol and deodorant, worth £49.39, from the West Bromwich store on May 27.
The 32-year-old, of no fixed address, was also sentenced for assault.
He must pay £75 compensation.
(Image: Google Street)
A man has been jailed for assaulting a woman.
Sebastian Blake was sentenced to 10 weeks behind bars following the incident, which happened in Friar Park, Wednesbury, on April 19.
He was also sentenced for using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause a person to believe violence would be used against them on the same date.
The 29-year-old, of Beaconview Road, West Bromwich, was ordered to pay £100 compensation, a victim surcharge of £128 and £135 court costs.
Smethwick
A disqualified driver was fined £250 after he was caught behind the wheel in Smethwick.
Gheorghe Iordache, of Thompson Road, Smethwick, was also sentenced for driving without insurance on September 9 last year and failing to surrender to Dudley Magistrates' Court on October 29, 2019, having been released on bail.
The 45-year-old was given a four week curfew and for the duration must remain at his home address between 4pm and 4am.
He must also pay a victim surcharge of £85 and £135 court costs.
Halesowen
A man has been jailed for 16 weeks after he was caught driving while disqualified.
Rakesh Lal was also sentenced for driving without insurance and possessing cannabis in Rowley Regis on May 27.
The 38-year-old, of Kent Road, Halesowen, was banned from driving for 50 months and must pay a victims surcharge of £128.
Dudley
(Image: Google Street)
A 30-year-old was jailed for driving while disqualified.
Jonathan Shead was caught behind the wheel of a Ford Transit can in Selborne Road, Dudley, on May 26.
He was also sentenced for obstructing a police officer in the execution of his duty and driving without insurance or MOT.
Shead, of Watsons Green Road, Dudley, was sent to prison for 20 weeks and disqualified from driving for five years.
He must also pay a £500 fine, victim surcharge of £128 and £135 court costs.
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Wolverhampton
A 25-year-old has been fined £100 for being drunk and disorderly in Wolverhampton.
Rhys Dillon, of Parkfield Road, Wolverhampton, must also pay a victim surcharge of £35 and £135 court costs following the offence, which happened on May 21.
A man has been sent to prison for assaulting a woman in Wolverhampton.
Jonathon Chestnutt, of Primrose Avenue, Wolverhampton, was jailed for 18 weeks following the incident, which happened on April 14.
He was also sentenced for damaging a mobile phone, worth £100, on the same day and breaching a non-molestation order in Wolverhampton on May 20.
The 29-year-old must pay £250 compensation.
Quarry Bank
A Stourbridge shoplifter was given a community order.
Steven Messe, of Thornhill Road, Quarry Bank, stole chocolate, worth £220 from Co-op on October 15 last year.
The 30-year-old must pay £220 compensation.


birminghammail--2020-05-31--The Black Country pubs currently up for sale

It 's been more than two months since anyone sat down with a nice cold pint in a pub , with a cheese and onion cob and a bag of scratchings .
But it 's not just the drinks and bar snacks that everyone is missing , it 's the atmosphere and socialising we do when we go to a pub .
However when the lockdown is lifted not all pubs will be reopening , as some of them will be needing new owners .
So if you fancy seeing yourself behind your very own bar , here 's what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pub looks perfect for cosy drinks by the fire .
Based in a rural location , the Pub stands alone between the much sought after villages of Lower Penn , Seisdon and Trysull .
A snippet of the description on Rightmove says : `` The Hollybush is a traditional Black Country style pub with many character features and a strong Victorian theme throughout .
`` The building is of red brick construction which is colour washed cream beneath a pitched tiled roof .
`` It offers two principal trading areas , owners accommodation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , car parking and pastureland .
`` It is set in a total of 4.86 of an acre .
It is currently closed but has in the past operated as a pub , country restaurant and also an Indian restaurant . ''
To find out more about this property , click here .
This pub is located in a densely populated area .
There are three bedrooms available for the manager 's accommodation .
There are two bars with a function space , which is perfect for hosting events and parties .
Part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The Top Bell is situated west of Stourbridge town centre on Belmont Road which provides access to Stourbridge town centre via the A458 .
`` The property is situated in a residential area with local facilities including Wollescote Primary School , the Shovel Inn pub and the Fox Inn . ''
To find out more about this property , click here .
This Brierley Hill based boozer is located close to the popular intu Merry Hill Shopping Centre .
It comes with a two-bedroom flat , complete with a living room and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Rightmove says : `` This trading Public House has main original features within the main bar area on the ground floor including two period fire palaces and an imposing wooden bar .
`` The bar area extends to 908 sq ft allowing any prospective tenant the opportunity to have up to 25 floor covers .
There is a kitchen/ ood preparation area looked behind the main bar which could serve the restaurant . ''
To find out more about this property , click here .
This former pub could be given a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the potential to be transformed into low rise apartments or assisted living units , with space for on site parking .
A snippet of the advert on Rightmove says : `` This conveniently situated potential development site is currently used as The Royal Oak Public House , benefiting from a dual frontage to both Oxford and Prince Street in Pleck .
`` The mainly level site is of a regular shape and would lend itself to redevelopment for Residential purposes for the erection of 14 low rise apartments or assisted living units with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To find out more about this property , click here .

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It's been more than two months since anyone sat down with a nice cold pint in a pub, with a cheese and onion cob and a bag of scratchings.
But it's not just the drinks and bar snacks that everyone is missing, it's the atmosphere and socialising we do when we go to a pub.
However when the lockdown is lifted not all pubs will be reopening, as some of them will be needing new owners.
So if you fancy seeing yourself behind your very own bar, here's what could be yours.
The Hollybush, Wolverhampton - £395,000
(Image: Rightmove)
This quaint country pub looks perfect for cosy drinks by the fire.
Based in a rural location, the Pub stands alone between the much sought after villages of Lower Penn, Seisdon and Trysull.
A snippet of the description on Rightmove says: "The Hollybush is a traditional Black Country style pub with many character features and a strong Victorian theme throughout.
"The building is of red brick construction which is colour washed cream beneath a pitched tiled roof.
"It offers two principal trading areas, owners accommodation at the first floor, beer gardens, car parking and pastureland.
"It is set in a total of 4.86 of an acre. It is currently closed but has in the past operated as a pub, country restaurant and also an Indian restaurant."
To find out more about this property, click here.
Top Bell Public House, Stourbridge - £325,000
(Image: Rightmove)
This pub is located in a densely populated area. There are three bedrooms available for the manager's accommodation.
There are two bars with a function space, which is perfect for hosting events and parties.
Part of the advert on Rightmove reads: "The Top Bell is situated west of Stourbridge town centre on Belmont Road which provides access to Stourbridge town centre via the A458.
"The property is situated in a residential area with local facilities including Wollescote Primary School, the Shovel Inn pub and the Fox Inn."
To find out more about this property, click here.
The Dog & Lamp Post, Brierley Hill - £250,000
(Image: Rightmove)
This Brierley Hill based boozer is located close to the popular intu Merry Hill Shopping Centre.
It comes with a two-bedroom flat, complete with a living room and bathroom.
Part of the property advert on Rightmove says: "This trading Public House has main original features within the main bar area on the ground floor including two period fire palaces and an imposing wooden bar.
"The bar area extends to 908 sq ft allowing any prospective tenant the opportunity to have up to 25 floor covers. There is a kitchen/ ood preparation area looked behind the main bar which could serve the restaurant."
To find out more about this property, click here.
The Royal Oak, Pleck - £500,000
(Image: Rightmove)
This former pub could be given a new lease of life.
It has the potential to be transformed into low rise apartments or assisted living units, with space for on site parking.
A snippet of the advert on Rightmove says: "This conveniently situated potential development site is currently used as The Royal Oak Public House, benefiting from a dual frontage to both Oxford and Prince Street in Pleck.
"The mainly level site is of a regular shape and would lend itself to redevelopment for Residential purposes for the erection of 14 low rise apartments or assisted living units with space for on site parking."
To find out more about this property, click here.


birminghammail--2020-05-31--The beach 30 mins from Birmingham is welcoming back visitors

A secret sandy beach located just 40 minutes from Birmingham is welcoming back sunseekers .
Bosworth Water Park , near Nuneaton , is re-opening again on Monday , June 1 after it was forced to shut due to coronavirus .
Social distancing measures have been introduced .
Children will be able to paddle in the blue lagoon , enjoy the sands and the grounds but the cafe , play areas , pedalos and canoes hire will remain closed until further notice .
Refreshments are available and there is limited toilet facilities .
But not everyone is happy with some taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per hour parking charge with the private park hit back saying it has always been £3 per hour and £2.50 per hour midweek June - September .
A notice on their Facebook page read : “ We can now share some exciting news you will all be glad to hear .
“ From Monday 1st June we will be opening to the public our grounds for recreational use .
“ Parking charges will be £3 per car per hour , pedestrians ( entering on foot ) £2 per person , buses £2 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very limited , the office , cafe , hire equipment ( such as pedalos and canoes ) and play areas will remain closed .
“ We will provide limited toilet facilities only , whilst we will clean these facilities on a regular basis we can not guarantee the person using them before you has left them in an acceptable manor .
“ The blue lagoon will be open for children to paddle .
“ Refreshments and ice cream are available from the candy cottage and the ice cream van .
“ Customers will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are will be responsible for their own safety .
“ Please remember we have a huge area for you all to enjoy and there is enough space for everyone to stay within the law , please use all areas of the park .
“ We trust you will all stick to our new rules and enable us to stay open .
”

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A secret sandy beach located just 40 minutes from Birmingham is welcoming back sunseekers.
Bosworth Water Park, near Nuneaton, is re-opening again on Monday, June 1 after it was forced to shut due to coronavirus.
Social distancing measures have been introduced. Children will be able to paddle in the blue lagoon, enjoy the sands and the grounds but the cafe, play areas, pedalos and canoes hire will remain closed until further notice.
(Image: RichardF38 on TripAdvisor)
Refreshments are available and there is limited toilet facilities.
But not everyone is happy with some taking to Facebook to complain about the £3 per hour parking charge with the private park hit back saying it has always been £3 per hour and £2.50 per hour midweek June - September.
A notice on their Facebook page read: “We can now share some exciting news you will all be glad to hear.
“From Monday 1st June we will be opening to the public our grounds for recreational use.
“Parking charges will be £3 per car per hour, pedestrians (entering on foot) £2 per person, buses £2 per person.
“Our facilities will be very limited, the office, cafe, hire equipment (such as pedalos and canoes) and play areas will remain closed.
“We will provide limited toilet facilities only, whilst we will clean these facilities on a regular basis we can not guarantee the person using them before you has left them in an acceptable manor.
“The blue lagoon will be open for children to paddle.
“Refreshments and ice cream are available from the candy cottage and the ice cream van.
“Customers will be required to obey social distancing guidelines are will be responsible for their own safety.
“Please remember we have a huge area for you all to enjoy and there is enough space for everyone to stay within the law, please use all areas of the park.
“We trust you will all stick to our new rules and enable us to stay open.”


birminghammail--2020-05-31--Loganair resumes flights from Birmingham as airline restores services

Short-haul airline Loganair is resuming flights from Birmingham following coronavirus restrictions and issues following thre recent collapse of Flybe .
It will restart non-stop services to Aberdeen with the first flight jetting off at 6.20pm on Monday .
Services will initially operate four times each week – on Mondays , Thursdays , Fridays and Sundays – ahead of an increase to two flights each way per weekday linking Birmingham with Aberdeen from August 31 .
Loganair ’ s flights between Birmingham and Inverness will resume on July 6 , and will also fly on four days per week initially before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The airline is also pressing ahead with its plans to restore the former Flybe route linking Birmingham with the Isle of Man with further details released soon .
Tom Screen , aviation director at Birmingham Airport , said , “ We are delighted to see Loganair returning to flying from Birmingham , serving these key routes to Aberdeen and Inverness .
`` The team at Loganair have placed significant emphasis on safety and we look forward to welcoming them and their customers through Birmingham in the coming week.
” Loganair chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses turning their thoughts to re-starting work after the Covid-19 pandemic , the UK ’ s regional air connectivity will be more important than ever .
“ For the sake of the recovery of the UK economy , we must enable key workers across the oil & gas , construction , service and healthcare sectors to travel swiftly , comfortably and safely throughout the country .
“ As well as providing travel guidance on which basis businesses can plan , we believe today ’ s announcement will also lend confidence to people looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social restrictions permit.
” Loganair ’ s advice to customers regarding travel safety during the current COVID-19 crisis is available on its website , and customers are urged to check for regular updates .

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Short-haul airline Loganair is resuming flights from Birmingham following coronavirus restrictions and issues following thre recent collapse of Flybe.
It will restart non-stop services to Aberdeen with the first flight jetting off at 6.20pm on Monday.
Services will initially operate four times each week – on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays – ahead of an increase to two flights each way per weekday linking Birmingham with Aberdeen from August 31.
Loganair’s flights between Birmingham and Inverness will resume on July 6, and will also fly on four days per week initially before building to a daily service during August.
The airline is also pressing ahead with its plans to restore the former Flybe route linking Birmingham with the Isle of Man with further details released soon.
Tom Screen, aviation director at Birmingham Airport, said, “We are delighted to see Loganair returning to flying from Birmingham, serving these key routes to Aberdeen and Inverness.
"The team at Loganair have placed significant emphasis on safety and we look forward to welcoming them and their customers through Birmingham in the coming week.”
Loganair chief executive Jonathan Hinkles said: “With many businesses turning their thoughts to re-starting work after the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK’s regional air connectivity will be more important than ever.
“For the sake of the recovery of the UK economy, we must enable key workers across the oil & gas, construction, service and healthcare sectors to travel swiftly, comfortably and safely throughout the country.
“As well as providing travel guidance on which basis businesses can plan, we believe today’s announcement will also lend confidence to people looking forward to visiting families and friends once social restrictions permit.”
Loganair’s advice to customers regarding travel safety during the current COVID-19 crisis is available on its website, and customers are urged to check for regular updates.


birminghammail--2020-05-31--ADVERTORIAL: Is your dog the UK's best pet during lockdown?

There ’ s nothing more vital than a companion during a crisis .
And Britons across the country know that only too well at the moment , as we ’ ve relied more than ever on friends and family to get us through these tough times .
But there are millions of people who ’ ve been counting on a totally different kind of companionship – one that gets us up and out when we need it , one that offers unlimited affection , and one that has delivered ever-present loyalty throughout the lockdown .
Over the past few weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ themselves to be workout buddies , stress relievers and invaluable family members .
When things have threatened to overwhelm us , our dogs have been there to lift the mood with their unconditional love and crazy antics .
Now we ’ re teaming up with Butcher ’ s Nourishing Food For Dogs to honour the nation ’ s unsung heroes , reward them for helping us through these tough times , and celebrate all the lockdown love they ’ ve given us .
And because Butcher ’ s believe every dog deserves to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they nourish us , they ’ re offering wholesome British-made bowlfuls as prizes to reward the winning entries .
Regional winners will receive a £100 Butcher ’ s voucher .
Our overall national winner will get a year ’ s supply of Butcher ’ s Nourishing Food For Dogs , and £1500 towards a dog-friendly break with their hero .
Using the form below , simply send in a photograph of your dog , and tell us in 100 words or less how they have been a lockdown superstar .
Terms and conditions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maybe you finally cracked that trick .
Maybe they got you out the house to get your one-a-day outing .
Maybe you were self-isolating and they were your only company .
Whatever it is that makes your dog special , we want to hear all about it .
You might want to send us a few words , or pen a couple of lines sharing your best memories of the last few weeks .
Or you might even want to write a short poem about your hero .
The competition is open now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be on Friday , June 5 .
We ’ ll then choose and publish a shortlist of our favourite stories from around the UK , before asking you , our readers , to vote for your regional winners .
The regional winners will then become national finalists , with readers being given the chance to vote for and choose our overall Lockdown Dog Hero winner .
So here ’ s to all of Britain ’ s lockdown dogs – good luck !
• Butcher ’ s recipes provide all the goodness they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made with natural ingredients from British and Irish farms .
There ’ s no nasties , just packed with food full of good stuff that dogs love .
100 % complete and balanced recipes with all the vitamins and minerals needed for bouncing energy and total enjoyment .
To find out more visit butchersdogfood.co.uk • By entering this competition you agree that you have read and understood the terms and conditions associated with Lockdown Dog Heroes and agree to Reach Plc and Butcher ’ s Pet Care Ltd publishing your entry on any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newsletters .
• The closing date to receive entries is at midnight on Friday June 5 2020 .
• An independent judging panel will select 20 of the very best pictures and stories from all the entries received .
• These will be shortlisted into the next round and will be put to the public vote .
Votes will open between 05.00 June , 9 and midnight on June 10 .
• The dog with the most votes will go through to a national competition and the final round .
• 22 dogs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public vote .
• The dog with the most votes will be crowned the overall winner .
Votes will open between 00:01 Jun 19 and 00:00 June 22 .
• One national winner receives £1,500 towards a dog friendly break + A Year ’ s Supply of Butcher 's Food for Dogs .
• Each regional winner will each receive £100.00 Butcher 's Food for Dogs Voucher .
• Prize not transferable , no whole/part cash alternatives , delivered within 28 days of competition closing date • Online entry only .
Proof of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Reach Plc supports the prevention of cruelty to animals and in no way seeks to encourage readers to submit photographs or images which might endanger the wellbeing of animals and we reserve the right not to publish inappropriate pictures .
• Employees of ReachPlc , Butchers Pet Care Ltd and their families , and anyone professionally connected to the promotion are not eligible to neither enter nor vote in the promotion .
• 22 Regional prizes are syndicated as follows :

There’s nothing more vital than a companion during a crisis.
And Britons across the country know that only too well at the moment, as we’ve relied more than ever on friends and family to get us through these tough times.
But there are millions of people who’ve been counting on a totally different kind of companionship – one that gets us up and out when we need it, one that offers unlimited affection, and one that has delivered ever-present loyalty throughout the lockdown.
Over the past few weeks the UK’s dogs have shown themselves to be workout buddies, stress relievers and invaluable family members. When things have threatened to overwhelm us, our dogs have been there to lift the mood with their unconditional love and crazy antics.
Now we’re teaming up with Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs to honour the nation’s unsung heroes, reward them for helping us through these tough times, and celebrate all the lockdown love they’ve given us.
And because Butcher’s believe every dog deserves to be nourished in the same way that they nourish us, they’re offering wholesome British-made bowlfuls as prizes to reward the winning entries. Regional winners will receive a £100 Butcher’s voucher.
Our overall national winner will get a year’s supply of Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs, and £1500 towards a dog-friendly break with their hero.
How to enter
Using the form below, simply send in a photograph of your dog, and tell us in 100 words or less how they have been a lockdown superstar. Terms and conditions apply - see below for details.
Maybe you finally cracked that trick. Maybe they got you out the house to get your one-a-day outing. Maybe you were self-isolating and they were your only company.
Whatever it is that makes your dog special, we want to hear all about it.
You might want to send us a few words, or pen a couple of lines sharing your best memories of the last few weeks. Or you might even want to write a short poem about your hero.
The competition is open now, and the final chance to enter will be on Friday, June 5.
We’ll then choose and publish a shortlist of our favourite stories from around the UK, before asking you, our readers, to vote for your regional winners.
The regional winners will then become national finalists, with readers being given the chance to vote for and choose our overall Lockdown Dog Hero winner.
So here’s to all of Britain’s lockdown dogs – good luck!
Butcher’s recipes provide all the goodness they need, with delicious meals that are made with natural ingredients from British and Irish farms. There’s no nasties, just packed with food full of good stuff that dogs love. 100% complete and balanced recipes with all the vitamins and minerals needed for bouncing energy and total enjoyment. To find out more visit butchersdogfood.co.uk
Terms and conditions


birminghammail--2020-05-31--EFL confirm Championship return date for Birmingham City

The EFL has agreed a date for resuming the Championship season .
Fixtures were suspended almost three months ago due to the coronavirus pandemic but EFL bosses have remained determined to complete the Championship campaign .
Birmingham City have nine fixtures left to play starting with a derby clash against West Bromwich Albion .
After the Premier League confirmed matches will resume on Wednesday , June 17 , the EFL have agreed for the Championship to return on Saturday , June 20 .
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store and App Store The restart is subject to government guidance and safety requirements , as is the case with the top-flight , but players resumed training at the start of the week .
A return to contact training is expected to be approved by clubs in a vote held on Monday .
An EFL statement read : `` Following Saturday ’ s announcement by the Government to allow elite sporting events to return behind closed doors , the EFL has this weekend agreed to a provisional restart date of the weekend of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky Bet Championship .
`` The date is subject to the strict proviso that all safety requirements and Government guidance is met ; and that Clubs receive clearance from their local authorities in order to stage matches at their home grounds .
`` After discussing various approaches , and , the importance of completing the season in a similar timeline to that of the Premier League to avoid any potential issues with promoted and relegated Clubs , the Sky Bet Championship season is set to conclude with the Championship Play-Off Final on or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details are still to be confirmed following further discussions with the League ’ s Broadcast partner , Sky Sports .
`` During the weekend ’ s discussions it was further agreed to consider changing Regulations to permit the use of five substitutes in the remaining fixtures and , also increasing the matchday squad from 18 to 20 players .
`` Discussions will continue with Championship Clubs in this respect . ''

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The EFL has agreed a date for resuming the Championship season.
Fixtures were suspended almost three months ago due to the coronavirus pandemic but EFL bosses have remained determined to complete the Championship campaign.
Birmingham City have nine fixtures left to play starting with a derby clash against West Bromwich Albion.
After the Premier League confirmed matches will resume on Wednesday, June 17, the EFL have agreed for the Championship to return on Saturday, June 20.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
The restart is subject to government guidance and safety requirements, as is the case with the top-flight, but players resumed training at the start of the week.
A return to contact training is expected to be approved by clubs in a vote held on Monday.
An EFL statement read: "Following Saturday’s announcement by the Government to allow elite sporting events to return behind closed doors, the EFL has this weekend agreed to a provisional restart date of the weekend of 20 June 2020 for matches in the Sky Bet Championship.
"The date is subject to the strict proviso that all safety requirements and Government guidance is met; and that Clubs receive clearance from their local authorities in order to stage matches at their home grounds.
"After discussing various approaches, and, the importance of completing the season in a similar timeline to that of the Premier League to avoid any potential issues with promoted and relegated Clubs, the Sky Bet Championship season is set to conclude with the Championship Play-Off Final on or around 30 July 2020.
"Final details are still to be confirmed following further discussions with the League’s Broadcast partner, Sky Sports.
"During the weekend’s discussions it was further agreed to consider changing Regulations to permit the use of five substitutes in the remaining fixtures and, also increasing the matchday squad from 18 to 20 players.
"Discussions will continue with Championship Clubs in this respect."


birminghammail--2020-05-31--EFL agree date for West Brom to resume promotion push

The EFL has agreed a date for resuming the Championship season in a major boost to West Bromwich Albion 's promotion hopes .
Fixtures were suspended almost three months ago due to the coronavirus pandemic but EFL bosses have remained determined to complete the Championship campaign .
Slaven Bilic 's side trail Leeds United by a point with nine fixtures left to play having been in the automatic promotion spots since November .
Albion chief executive Mark Jenkins set out his backing to conclude the season on the pitch in a club statement earlier this week .
There 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of all the West Bromwich Albion news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Albion 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store And the EFL have agreed for the Championship to return on Saturday , June 20 .
The restart is subject to government guidance and safety requirements , as is the case with the Premier League , but players resumed training at the start of the week .
A return to contact training is expected to be approved by clubs in a vote held on Monday .
An EFL statement read : `` Following Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow elite sporting events to return behind closed doors , the EFL has this weekend agreed to a provisional restart date of the weekend of 20 June 2020 for matches in the Sky Bet Championship .
`` The date is subject to the strict proviso that all safety requirements and Government guidance is met ; and that Clubs receive clearance from their local authorities in order to stage matches at their home grounds .
`` After discussing various approaches , and , the importance of completing the season in a similar timeline to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any potential issues with promoted and relegated Clubs , the Sky Bet Championship season is set to conclude with the Championship Play-Off Final on or around 30 July 2020 .
`` Final details are still to be confirmed following further discussions with the League ’ s Broadcast partner , Sky Sports .
`` During the weekend ’ s discussions it was further agreed to consider changing Regulations to permit the use of five substitutes in the remaining fixtures and , also increasing the matchday squad from 18 to 20 players .
`` Discussions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respect . ''

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The EFL has agreed a date for resuming the Championship season in a major boost to West Bromwich Albion's promotion hopes.
Fixtures were suspended almost three months ago due to the coronavirus pandemic but EFL bosses have remained determined to complete the Championship campaign.
Slaven Bilic's side trail Leeds United by a point with nine fixtures left to play having been in the automatic promotion spots since November.
Albion chief executive Mark Jenkins set out his backing to conclude the season on the pitch in a club statement earlier this week.
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 .
And the EFL have agreed for the Championship to return on Saturday, June 20.
The restart is subject to government guidance and safety requirements, as is the case with the Premier League, but players resumed training at the start of the week.
A return to contact training is expected to be approved by clubs in a vote held on Monday.
An EFL statement read: "Following Saturday’s announcement by the Government to allow elite sporting events to return behind closed doors, the EFL has this weekend agreed to a provisional restart date of the weekend of 20 June 2020 for matches in the Sky Bet Championship.
"The date is subject to the strict proviso that all safety requirements and Government guidance is met; and that Clubs receive clearance from their local authorities in order to stage matches at their home grounds.
"After discussing various approaches, and, the importance of completing the season in a similar timeline to that of the Premier League to avoid any potential issues with promoted and relegated Clubs, the Sky Bet Championship season is set to conclude with the Championship Play-Off Final on or around 30 July 2020.
"Final details are still to be confirmed following further discussions with the League’s Broadcast partner, Sky Sports.
"During the weekend’s discussions it was further agreed to consider changing Regulations to permit the use of five substitutes in the remaining fixtures and, also increasing the matchday squad from 18 to 20 players.
"Discussions will continue with Championship Clubs in this respect."


birminghammail--2020-05-31--Tyler Roberts lifts the lid on West Brom departure to Leeds United

Tyler Roberts has lifted the lid on the promise Leeds United made to pluck him from West Bromwich Albion .
A graduate of Albion 's academy , Roberts left The Hawthorns in January 2018 to join Leeds in a £2.5m deal .
It came after the 21-year-old forward had been on loan to Oxford United , Shrewsbury Town and Walsall in League One .
Roberts made his Baggies debut aged 17 against Liverpool but when it became clear he would not be a part of the first-team picture , Leeds made a commitment he could n't refuse .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store '' I was at West Brom and I had just come back from a loan at Walsall and I kind of wanted to try and cement a first-team place at West Brom , '' he said in a video shared on Leeds ' Twitter page .
`` When it kind of got made obvious it was not going to happen that season , or maybe the next season after , I had had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I wanted to settle and try and fight for a spot .
Leeds were interested and they said I would be part of the first team .
`` Obviously it is a massive club and it was a no-brainer for me . ''
Both clubs could be back in the Premier League next season having juggled the top two spots for the majority of the season .
While Slaven Bilic has worked from a clear brief to get Albion promoted in his first campaign in charge , Marcelo Bielsa is hoping to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen his side slip up in the play-offs last year .
On working with the Argentine , Roberts said : `` It has been another eye opener .
It has been different to what I have ever experienced before .
`` He has taught me and the boys so much , so it has definitely been a great experience . ''

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Tyler Roberts has lifted the lid on the promise Leeds United made to pluck him from West Bromwich Albion.
A graduate of Albion's academy, Roberts left The Hawthorns in January 2018 to join Leeds in a £2.5m deal.
It came after the 21-year-old forward had been on loan to Oxford United, Shrewsbury Town and Walsall in League One.
Roberts made his Baggies debut aged 17 against Liverpool but when it became clear he would not be a part of the first-team picture, Leeds made a commitment he couldn't refuse.
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 .
"I was at West Brom and I had just come back from a loan at Walsall and I kind of wanted to try and cement a first-team place at West Brom," he said in a video shared on Leeds' Twitter page.
"When it kind of got made obvious it was not going to happen that season, or maybe the next season after, I had had enough of going out on loan.
"I wanted to settle and try and fight for a spot. Leeds were interested and they said I would be part of the first team.
"Obviously it is a massive club and it was a no-brainer for me."
Both clubs could be back in the Premier League next season having juggled the top two spots for the majority of the season.
While Slaven Bilic has worked from a clear brief to get Albion promoted in his first campaign in charge, Marcelo Bielsa is hoping to go one better this time around having seen his side slip up in the play-offs last year.
On working with the Argentine, Roberts said: "It has been another eye opener. It has been different to what I have ever experienced before.
"He has taught me and the boys so much, so it has definitely been a great experience."


birminghammail--2020-05-31--Piers Morgan's ominous warning to GMB guests as he returns to show

Piers Morgan has delivered an ominous warning to any Good Morning Britain guests as he gets ready to return from his holiday - he expects it to be `` lively . ''
The controversial TV presenter will be back at the helm of the ITV1 daytime programme on Monday .
June 1 will see Piers back in the studio at the helm of the ITV1 favourite , alongside his long-term co-presenter Susanna Reid .
The pair both enjoyed a week long break for half term , but are now set to return to the studio .
Piers and Susanna will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning through to Thursday morning , each and every week .
The pair confirmed their returns on social media , having been absent from the show for six episodes .
On Fridays , they will be once again replaced by Ben Shephard and Charlotte Hawkins , with Kate Garraway currently taking time out .
Kate 's husband Derek Draper is still battling for his life with coronavirus , having been diagnosed with the deadly bug in March .
On Twitter , ahead of Piers ' return to the show , he tweeted : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ susannareid100 & I suspect we 're going to have a very lively show . ''
Dr Hilary Jones , GMB 's resident healthcare expert , will also return to the programme tomorrow .

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Piers Morgan has delivered an ominous warning to any Good Morning Britain guests as he gets ready to return from his holiday - he expects it to be "lively."
The controversial TV presenter will be back at the helm of the ITV1 daytime programme on Monday.
June 1 will see Piers back in the studio at the helm of the ITV1 favourite, alongside his long-term co-presenter Susanna Reid.
The pair both enjoyed a week long break for half term, but are now set to return to the studio.
Piers and Susanna will be back presenting the show from Monday morning through to Thursday morning, each and every week.
The pair confirmed their returns on social media, having been absent from the show for six episodes.
On Fridays, they will be once again replaced by Ben Shephard and Charlotte Hawkins, with Kate Garraway currently taking time out.
Kate's husband Derek Draper is still battling for his life with coronavirus, having been diagnosed with the deadly bug in March.
On Twitter, ahead of Piers' return to the show, he tweeted: "I'll be back Monday with @susannareid100 & I suspect we're going to have a very lively show."
Dr Hilary Jones, GMB's resident healthcare expert, will also return to the programme tomorrow.


birminghammail--2020-05-31--West Brom linked with double Sheffield Wednesday transfer swoop

West Bromwich Albion are interested in out-of-contract Sheffield Wednesday pair Steven Fletcher and Morgan Fox , according to reports .
Fletcher has notched 13 Championship goals this season , the striker 's best return for the Owls since joining from Sunderland in 2016 .
Full-back Fox is also a key player for Garry Monk 's side , making 26 appearances this term and scoring twice .
According to TEAMtalk , Wednesday want to keep both players but are struggling to agree new deals amid interest from elsewhere .
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store The report claims Albion are among a host of clubs keen on free transfers for the duo once their contracts expire at the end of June .
Championship rivals Derby and Stoke are also reported to hold an interest in Fletcher , who has 33 Scotland caps .
Fox , meanwhile , is also said to be a target for Premier League Burnley , Bournemouth and Norwich City , second tier Middlesbrough and Scottish side Rangers .
Albion are hoping to be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Fletcher , who turns 34 next birthday , would come as a surprise .
Slaven Bilic 's side could return to action in June to complete their promotion bid after players returned to training earlier this month .

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West Bromwich Albion are interested in out-of-contract Sheffield Wednesday pair Steven Fletcher and Morgan Fox, according to reports.
Fletcher has notched 13 Championship goals this season, the striker's best return for the Owls since joining from Sunderland in 2016.
Full-back Fox is also a key player for Garry Monk's side, making 26 appearances this term and scoring twice.
According to TEAMtalk, Wednesday want to keep both players but are struggling to agree new deals amid interest from elsewhere.
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 .
The report claims Albion are among a host of clubs keen on free transfers for the duo once their contracts expire at the end of June.
Championship rivals Derby and Stoke are also reported to hold an interest in Fletcher, who has 33 Scotland caps.
Fox, meanwhile, is also said to be a target for Premier League Burnley, Bournemouth and Norwich City, second tier Middlesbrough and Scottish side Rangers.
Albion are hoping to be a top-flight club next season and a move for Fletcher, who turns 34 next birthday, would come as a surprise.
Slaven Bilic's side could return to action in June to complete their promotion bid after players returned to training earlier this month.


birminghammail--2020-05-31--The real reason Kylie Jenner has been removed from Forbes billionaire list

Forbes has removed Kylie Jenner from its list of billionaires and accused the reality star of inflating the value of her cosmetics business .
The magazine published an article based on an examination of financial filings after the beauty mogul sold a majority share in her cosmetics company .
She sold 51 % of her Kylie Cosmetics company to Coty in a deal valued at 1.2 billion dollars ( £1 billion ) early this year .
The article said : `` Kylie 's business is significantly smaller , and less profitable , than the family has spent years leading the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forbes , to believe .
`` Forbes now thinks that Kylie Jenner , even after pocketing an estimated 340 million dollars ( £275 million ) after taxes from the sale , is not a billionaire . ''
Jenner responded in a series of tweets , saying : `` what am i even waking up to .
i thought this was a reputable site.. all i see are a number of inaccurate statements and unproven assumptions lol .
i 've never asked for any title or tried to lie my way there EVER .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Forbes spilled over to Wall Street , where shares of New York-based Coty Inc fell more than 13 % on Friday .
She later tweeted : `` but okay , i am blessed beyond my years , i have a beautiful daughter , and a successful business and i 'm doing perfectly fine .
i can name a list of 100 things more important right now than fixating on how much money i have . ''
Jenner 's business and social media prominence have made her stand out even in the exceedingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kardashians .
She is the younger daughter of Kris and Caitlyn Jenner , sister to Kendall Jenner and half-sister to Kim , Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian .
In March 2019 , Forbes featured Jenner along with the headline `` At 21 , Kylie Jenner Becomes The Youngest Self-Made Billionaire Ever '' .
On Friday , Forbes offered a starkly different headline `` Inside Kylie Jenner 's Web of Lies - And Why She 's No Longer a Billionaire '' .
The story acknowledged that the coronavirus crisis and its effect on the cosmetics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But it said it is `` likely '' that the `` business was never that big to begin with , and the Jenners have lied about it every year since 2016 - including having their accountant draft tax returns with false numbers - to help juice Forbes ' estimates of Kylie 's earnings and net worth '' .
The magazine said it can not prove the documents were forged , and Jenner 's lawyer said the story is `` filled with outright lies '' .
Michael Kump said : `` Forbes ' accusation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returns ' is unequivocally false and we are demanding that Forbes immediately and publicly retract that and other statements .
`` We would not expect that from a supermarket tabloid , much less from Forbes . ''
Forbes spokesman Matthew Hutchison said the magazine 's `` extensively-reported investigation was triggered by newly-filed documents that revealed glaring discrepancies between information privately supplied to journalists and information publicly supplied to shareholders '' .
He added : `` Our reporters spotted the inaccuracies and spent months uncovering the facts .
We encourage her attorney to re-read @ @ @ @

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Forbes has removed Kylie Jenner from its list of billionaires and accused the reality star of inflating the value of her cosmetics business.
The magazine published an article based on an examination of financial filings after the beauty mogul sold a majority share in her cosmetics company.
She sold 51% of her Kylie Cosmetics company to Coty in a deal valued at 1.2 billion dollars (£1 billion) early this year.
The article said: "Kylie's business is significantly smaller, and less profitable, than the family has spent years leading the cosmetics industry and media outlets, including Forbes, to believe.
"Forbes now thinks that Kylie Jenner, even after pocketing an estimated 340 million dollars (£275 million) after taxes from the sale, is not a billionaire."
Jenner responded in a series of tweets, saying: "what am i even waking up to. i thought this was a reputable site.. all i see are a number of inaccurate statements and unproven assumptions lol. i've never asked for any title or tried to lie my way there EVER. period."
The spat between Jenner and Forbes spilled over to Wall Street, where shares of New York-based Coty Inc fell more than 13% on Friday.
She later tweeted: "but okay, i am blessed beyond my years, i have a beautiful daughter, and a successful business and i'm doing perfectly fine. i can name a list of 100 things more important right now than fixating on how much money i have."
Jenner's business and social media prominence have made her stand out even in the exceedingly famous family behind Keeping Up With the Kardashians.
She is the younger daughter of Kris and Caitlyn Jenner, sister to Kendall Jenner and half-sister to Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian.
In March 2019, Forbes featured Jenner along with the headline "At 21, Kylie Jenner Becomes The Youngest Self-Made Billionaire Ever".
On Friday, Forbes offered a starkly different headline "Inside Kylie Jenner's Web of Lies - And Why She's No Longer a Billionaire".
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The story acknowledged that the coronavirus crisis and its effect on the cosmetics industry has hurt her net worth.
But it said it is "likely" that the "business was never that big to begin with, and the Jenners have lied about it every year since 2016 - including having their accountant draft tax returns with false numbers - to help juice Forbes' estimates of Kylie's earnings and net worth".
The magazine said it cannot prove the documents were forged, and Jenner's lawyer said the story is "filled with outright lies".
Michael Kump said: "Forbes' accusation that Kylie and her accountants 'forged tax returns' is unequivocally false and we are demanding that Forbes immediately and publicly retract that and other statements.
(Image: (Image: Getty Images))
"We would not expect that from a supermarket tabloid, much less from Forbes."
Forbes spokesman Matthew Hutchison said the magazine's "extensively-reported investigation was triggered by newly-filed documents that revealed glaring discrepancies between information privately supplied to journalists and information publicly supplied to shareholders".
He added: "Our reporters spotted the inaccuracies and spent months uncovering the facts. We encourage her attorney to re-read the article."