birminghammail--2020-06-18--Cashino arcade approved in city despite crime concerns

Plans for a new betting arcade in Erdington have been approved despite a claim from a ward councillor it could lead to more crime .
Gambling firm Cashino applied to the city council to turn a pawnbrokers on Erdington High Street into an “ adult gaming centre ” .
Today , councillors on the planning committee voted to approve the plans - with five voting “ for ” , three voting “ against ” and one abstaining .
Cllr Robert Alden , leader of the Conservative group on the city council and a councillor for Erdington , had previously objected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behaviour ” and “ cause more crime ” .
Other letters of objection from residents had stated there was already a total of eight gambling premises within 200m of the site , and voiced concerns about noise disturbance .
Cllr Gareth Moore ( Con ) , a member of the committee and councillor for Erdington , disputed the unit was currently vacant , and said : “ The impact that this use will bring to the High Street will be significant .
“ I am surprised there was no objection from West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the various tasking meetings I have been present to , gambling premises have caused issues .
“ There has been considerable discussion about trying to deal with antisocial behaviour and crime that these premises attract .
“ I ’ m not convinced this would add to the vitality or viability of the High Street and therefore is not in accordance with council policy and therefore I believe we should refuse this.
” The committee heard from a planning officer who said the council had agreed details of noise insulation with the applicants and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a condition of approval .
The officer said his understanding was that the premises were vacant and that there would not be a loss of a shop unit as a result of this application .
Speaking after the committee ’ s decision , Cllr Alden said : “ It is disappointing that the planning committee voted , by split decision , to approval the application for another gambling establishment on the High Street .
“ However I will continue to work with the local police teams and the Erdington Town Centre Partnership to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tackle the issues such establishments cause .
“ This is one reason we desperately need our Public Space Protection Order [ the council ’ s power to ban nominated nuisance behaviours ] renewed for the area .
“ Our vision to transform the High Street through the Future High Street Fund application will help turn Erdington into a destination of choice and I would ask other land owners and developers in Erdington not already on board to get on board with the local community and help us fulfil Erdington ’ s potential - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area back.
” The Local Democracy Reporting Service has asked Cashino for comment .

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Plans for a new betting arcade in Erdington have been approved despite a claim from a ward councillor it could lead to more crime.
Gambling firm Cashino applied to the city council to turn a pawnbrokers on Erdington High Street into an “adult gaming centre”.
Today, councillors on the planning committee voted to approve the plans - with five voting “for”, three voting “against” and one abstaining.
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Cllr Robert Alden, leader of the Conservative group on the city council and a councillor for Erdington, had previously objected, saying it would “worsen anti-social behaviour” and “cause more crime”.
Other letters of objection from residents had stated there was already a total of eight gambling premises within 200m of the site, and voiced concerns about noise disturbance.
Cllr Gareth Moore (Con), a member of the committee and councillor for Erdington, disputed the unit was currently vacant, and said: “The impact that this use will bring to the High Street will be significant.
“I am surprised there was no objection from West Midlands Police on this. I know from the various tasking meetings I have been present to, gambling premises have caused issues.
“There has been considerable discussion about trying to deal with antisocial behaviour and crime that these premises attract.
“I’m not convinced this would add to the vitality or viability of the High Street and therefore is not in accordance with council policy and therefore I believe we should refuse this.”
The committee heard from a planning officer who said the council had agreed details of noise insulation with the applicants and that putting this in place should be a condition of approval.
The officer said his understanding was that the premises were vacant and that there would not be a loss of a shop unit as a result of this application.
Speaking after the committee’s decision, Cllr Alden said: “It is disappointing that the planning committee voted, by split decision, to approval the application for another gambling establishment on the High Street.
“However I will continue to work with the local police teams and the Erdington Town Centre Partnership to continue to do all we can to tackle the issues such establishments cause.
“This is one reason we desperately need our Public Space Protection Order [the council’s power to ban nominated nuisance behaviours] renewed for the area.
“Our vision to transform the High Street through the Future High Street Fund application will help turn Erdington into a destination of choice and I would ask other land owners and developers in Erdington not already on board to get on board with the local community and help us fulfil Erdington’s potential - don’t try to hold our area back.”
Simon Coombes, head of marketing for the Praesepe group which owns Cashino, said: "We would just like to re-assure the local community that we compliment the high street offering with linked trips to other businesses, local job creation and over £100K investment into the high street.
"Whilst we have a refreshment offering we do not serve alcohol and refuse entry to those who have been.
"Our customer base is very different to those of other gambling sectors. Our teams are also highly trained in compliance and social responsibility to identify the signs of problem gambling and operate a Think 25 policy to prevent underage gambling.
"Independent tests are conducted at least three times a year and our pass rate for the last two years has been over 94 per cent, compared to other industries that score around 80 per cent."


birminghammail--2020-06-18--Road shut after crash leaves three injured - police at scene

A Sutton Coldfield road was sealed off by police after a collision left three people injured .
Upper Clifton Road was shut following the crash on Thursday afternoon , June 18 .
Emergency services rushed to the scene and cordoned off a stretch between Park Road and Tudor Road .
The collision is understood to have happened shortly before 2.30pm .
The road remained closed as of 5.30pm .
Pictures from the scene show police tape restricting access to the road .
A police car can be seen across a driveway .
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three patients for injuries not believed to be serious .
The three were all taken to Good Hope Hospital for further assessment .
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said : `` We were called at 2.30pm to reports of a road traffic collision on Upper Clifton Road .
`` We sent two ambulances and a paramedic officer to the scene .
`` There were three patients in total - two from one vehicle and one from another .
`` All three were treated for injuries not believed to be serious and taken @ @ @ @ @ @

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A Sutton Coldfield road was sealed off by police after a collision left three people injured.
Upper Clifton Road was shut following the crash on Thursday afternoon, June 18.
Emergency services rushed to the scene and cordoned off a stretch between Park Road and Tudor Road.
The collision is understood to have happened shortly before 2.30pm. The road remained closed as of 5.30pm.
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Pictures from the scene show police tape restricting access to the road. A police car can be seen across a driveway.
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were called to the scene, where they treated three patients for injuries not believed to be serious.
The three were all taken to Good Hope Hospital for further assessment.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "We were called at 2.30pm to reports of a road traffic collision on Upper Clifton Road.
"We sent two ambulances and a paramedic officer to the scene.
"There were three patients in total - two from one vehicle and one from another.
"All three were treated for injuries not believed to be serious and taken to Good Hope Hospital."
BirminghamLive have approached West Midlands Police for a comment.


birminghammail--2020-06-18--How Premier League refs reacted to Sheffield United’s ghost goal

Aston Villa ’ s goalless draw with Sheffield United has been marred by controversy after the Blades were denied an obvious goal just before half-time .
Oliver Norwood ’ s free-kick was not dealt with convincingly by Orjan Nyland and the ball appeared to cross the line .
However , Michael Oliver ’ s goal-line technology gave him no indication that it was a goal and despite the protest of Sheffield United ’ s players , it remained goalless .
It was a huge let-off for Villa , who started the game well and ended up sharing the points with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the referee ’ s dressing room , the watch alerted Oliver that it was indeed a goal , according to Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp .
This has obviously generated so many opinions from former referees , who feel strongly about the situation and the future of technology .
What has been said about the incident ?
Former referee Mark Halsey believes VAR should have intervened with the decision , despite it not being its main job .
Halsey also singled out Paul Tierney , who was in charge of the Video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa Park .
“ The assistant referee , Stuart Burt , he ’ s right in line !
All he ’ s got to do is go , ‘ Hang on a minute , that ’ s a goal ’ .
If Michael Oliver ’ s got a feeling that ’ s a goal , he has to initiate a review for VAR , and it clears it up in seconds , ” Halsey said to talkSPORT .
“ Stuart Burt is looking right across the line there , he ’ s got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ‘ Michael , listen , that looks a goal to me ’ .
I don ’ t know what is the matter with technology but we need to get this reviewed .
“ The matter of the fact is that it ’ s a goal .
Paul Tierney must be watching that , seeing the same pictures as what we ’ re seeing and he must be saying that ’ s a goal .
“ Why didn ’ t he help them out as well ?
Why didn ’ t he shout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ‘ Michael , stop the game .
I think this is a goal .
We ’ re checking it ’ , it would come back within seconds and the goal would be awarded to Sheffield United .
“ With technology , I think referees are now afraid to come in and make that decision , and assistants , because they know they ’ ve now got the technology to fall back on .
“ It ’ s a massive problem now .
They ’ re not making that decision because of technology @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sometimes does fail.
” The former chief of referees Keith Hackett has called on the Premier League to change its protocols after the controversial decision .
“ The PGMOL have only had the referee visit the pitch-side monitor once this season to date , ” Hackett said to CaughtOffside .
“ This was an opportunity that should have been taken , it was not .
Premier League and PGMOL must sit down with Hawkeye and review this massive error that had an outcome in the result of the game.
” Former Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ totally blameless ” in all of this and he ’ s unfortunate to be in the spotlight .
“ Having seen 9,000 games that it works perfectly , yeah , you would trust it - no doubt about that , ” Gallagher said on Sky Sports News .
“ Secondly , from his angle , I know the ball ’ s gone behind the line , Nyland has it there , and he then moves it forward , you ’ d have to be a very , very brave referee to make that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m convinced that technology is wrong , I think that ’ s a goal ’ .
I don ’ t think any referee would do it .
“ God forbid , if he had done it , and it hadn ’ t been behind the line - there would be an even bigger storm than we ’ ve got now .
Michael Oliver is totally blameless here .
”

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Aston Villa’s goalless draw with Sheffield United has been marred by controversy after the Blades were denied an obvious goal just before half-time.
Oliver Norwood’s free-kick was not dealt with convincingly by Orjan Nyland and the ball appeared to cross the line.
However, Michael Oliver’s goal-line technology gave him no indication that it was a goal and despite the protest of Sheffield United’s players, it remained goalless.
It was a huge let-off for Villa, who started the game well and ended up sharing the points with the high-flying Blades.
At half-time, in the referee’s dressing room, the watch alerted Oliver that it was indeed a goal, according to Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp.
This has obviously generated so many opinions from former referees, who feel strongly about the situation and the future of technology.
What has been said about the incident?
Former referee Mark Halsey believes VAR should have intervened with the decision, despite it not being its main job.
Halsey also singled out Paul Tierney, who was in charge of the Video Assistant Referee technology for the game at Villa Park.
“The assistant referee, Stuart Burt, he’s right in line! All he’s got to do is go, ‘Hang on a minute, that’s a goal’. If Michael Oliver’s got a feeling that’s a goal, he has to initiate a review for VAR, and it clears it up in seconds,” Halsey said to talkSPORT.
“Stuart Burt is looking right across the line there, he’s got to put his flag up and say, ‘Michael, listen, that looks a goal to me’. I don’t know what is the matter with technology but we need to get this reviewed.
“The matter of the fact is that it’s a goal. Paul Tierney must be watching that, seeing the same pictures as what we’re seeing and he must be saying that’s a goal.
“Why didn’t he help them out as well? Why didn’t he shout down the ear of Michael and say, ‘Michael, stop the game. I think this is a goal. We’re checking it’, it would come back within seconds and the goal would be awarded to Sheffield United.
“With technology, I think referees are now afraid to come in and make that decision, and assistants, because they know they’ve now got the technology to fall back on.
“It’s a massive problem now. They’re not making that decision because of technology. We need to know that technology sometimes does fail.”
The former chief of referees Keith Hackett has called on the Premier League to change its protocols after the controversial decision.
“The PGMOL have only had the referee visit the pitch-side monitor once this season to date,” Hackett said to CaughtOffside.
“This was an opportunity that should have been taken, it was not. Premier League and PGMOL must sit down with Hawkeye and review this massive error that had an outcome in the result of the game.”
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Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher believes Oliver is “totally blameless” in all of this and he’s unfortunate to be in the spotlight.
“Having seen 9,000 games that it works perfectly, yeah, you would trust it - no doubt about that,” Gallagher said on Sky Sports News.
“Secondly, from his angle, I know the ball’s gone behind the line, Nyland has it there, and he then moves it forward, you’d have to be a very, very brave referee to make that decision against technology and say ‘I’m convinced that technology is wrong, I think that’s a goal’. I don’t think any referee would do it.
“God forbid, if he had done it, and it hadn’t been behind the line - there would be an even bigger storm than we’ve got now. Michael Oliver is totally blameless here.”


birminghammail--2020-06-18--Birmingham campaigner hands back her British Empire Medal in protest

A prominent activist in Birmingham has returned her British Empire Medal with a proud , defiant message : `` If this is power , you can have it back . ''
Anisa Morridadi , founder and chief executive of city social enterprise Beatfreeks , was awarded the honour in 2013 for services to education and young people .
In a powerful letter to region 's Lord Lieutenant John Crabtree , she explains why she is returning the medal , telling him it is her responsibility `` not to uphold forms of power that marginalise , exclude and harm . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ received it , writes of the 'turmoil ' she went through both before and after accepting the honour .
`` I felt a combination of gratitude to those who put me forward , as well as pride , shame , fear and motivation ... .I accepted this believing I could use the platform to make a change . ''
But she says her hopes that she could `` reclaim the word Empire '' and give it new meaning and purpose have since been dashed .
`` I 'm inspired and informed by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are risking everything - their lives , careers , freedom , relationships - in order to bring about justice and equality , '' she writes in her letter .
`` I ca n't stand for this too if I do n't actively reject the honours system .
`` Celebrating and memorialising the Empire through awards and celebrations has real life impact now ; it reinforces the hostile environment , institutional and everyday racism .
`` I 've been considering returning the BEM since the day I accepted it but I now have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The rights and wrongs of accepting honours has been a challenge , with prominent celebrities and activists rejecting awards .
Benjamin Zephaniah turned down an OBE in 2003 , writing : `` Benjamin Zephaniah OBE - no way Mr Blair , no way Mrs Queen .
I am profoundly anti-empire . ''
George the Poet turned down an MBE because of the `` pure evil '' of the British Empire .
He said while he `` deeply appreciated '' the gesture , he did not want to accept the honour because of `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Africa '' .
Film maker Ken Loach said of his offer of an OBE in 1977 : `` It 's all the things I think are despicable : patronage , deferring to the monarchy and the name of the British Empire , which is a monument of exploitation and conquest . ''
Others to have famously rejected honours include David Bowie , John Lennon , Nigella Lawson , Danny Boyle and French and Saunders .
Anisa is co-founder of Beatfreeks , who champion a community of young creatives in Birmingham , connecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to gain influence .
The organisation 's role is clear : `` We 're interested in getting young people their share of power in order to work with business , government and funders to build the institutions of the future . ''
The collective issued a powerful statement following the killing of George Floyd .
In a blogpost , Anisa reflects further on her decision to return her medal .
`` Only 6 % of these honours go to Black , Asian and minoritised backgrounds .
It is not representative of the people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was , every key worker and NHS worker right now would be on the Queen ’ s next list .
`` But the fight here , I think , is not to get more people to get these awards .
It ’ s to get more to consider giving them back . ''
She says : `` We need a new system of recognition and honours for service to public life that is divorced from Empire and colonialism .
As statues fall , so must the other antiquated symbols and emblems that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in today and definitely not the one we are building for tomorrow .
`` We need better education for young people on British history and heritage .
Not whitewashed .
The full picture should be understood and acknowledged including the history of Commonwealth so that we can explore what it means to move forwards .
I am still learning .
I have so much more to do and to understand .
This is something I intend to reflect on and push actively through my role on the Legacy and Benefits committee of Birmingham2022 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make black British history compulsory in schools .
John Crabtree , Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands , and holder of an OBE , said today he respected Anisa 's decision .
`` I know and have huge respect for Anisa and for what she does .
She was a very worthy recipient of the British Empire Medal but I fully respect anyone 's individual view on receiving the award , or not . ''
I am writing to return my British Empire Medal ( enclosed ) .
I 'd like to share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I was 23 when I accepted this award for Services to Education and Young People .
I was one of the youngest I think at the time to have been awarded a BEM and I felt a combination of gratitude to those who put me forward , as well as pride , shame , fear and motivation .
Though I had reservations , after discussion with family and friends , i accepted this believing I could use the platform to make a change .
On a personal level I felt seen , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the time suffering with severe anxiety and depression .
On a professional level , I was setting up a social enterprise , Beatfreeks , and felt this could propel the movement forward .
I wanted to look forward to what the Empire could be and 'make the medal ' into something that was positive .
I wanted to reclaim the word .
Since I accepted this award I have worked with thousands of people of colour .
This is what I have learned .
Empire is a word that can not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , reimagined or redefined .
Empire needs to be taught as British history .
I was recognised for my services to education and young people - my service now is to join the calls for our education to bring this history to all schools and all young people - they have a right to understand the full story .
I 'm inspired and informed by the Black Lives Matter movement and the activists who are risking everything - their lives , careers , freedom , relationships - in order to bring about justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for this too if I do n't actively reject the honours system .
Celebrating and memorialising the Empire through awards and celebrations has real life impact now ; it reinforces the hostile environment , institutional and everyday racism .
I 've been considering returning the BEM since the day I accepted it but I now have the courage to say it .
I felt I was letting down the young people and my community who were so proud and supportive .
I felt it was my responsibility to take this 'power ' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I see it is my responsibility not to uphold forms of power that marginalise , exclude and harm . ''

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A prominent activist in Birmingham has returned her British Empire Medal with a proud, defiant message: "If this is power, you can have it back."
Anisa Morridadi, founder and chief executive of city social enterprise Beatfreeks, was awarded the honour in 2013 for services to education and young people.
In a powerful letter to region's Lord Lieutenant John Crabtree, she explains why she is returning the medal, telling him it is her responsibility "not to uphold forms of power that marginalise, exclude and harm."
Anisa, who was 23 when she received it, writes of the 'turmoil' she went through both before and after accepting the honour. "I felt a combination of gratitude to those who put me forward, as well as pride, shame, fear and motivation....I accepted this believing I could use the platform to make a change."
But she says her hopes that she could "reclaim the word Empire" and give it new meaning and purpose have since been dashed.
"I'm inspired and informed by the Black Lives Matter movement and the activists who are risking everything - their lives, careers, freedom, relationships - in order to bring about justice and equality," she writes in her letter.
"I can't stand for this too if I don't actively reject the honours system.
"Celebrating and memorialising the Empire through awards and celebrations has real life impact now; it reinforces the hostile environment, institutional and everyday racism.
"I've been considering returning the BEM since the day I accepted it but I now have the courage to say it."
The rights and wrongs of accepting honours has been a challenge, with prominent celebrities and activists rejecting awards.
Benjamin Zephaniah turned down an OBE in 2003, writing: "Benjamin Zephaniah OBE - no way Mr Blair, no way Mrs Queen. I am profoundly anti-empire."
George the Poet turned down an MBE because of the "pure evil" of the British Empire. He said while he "deeply appreciated" the gesture, he did not want to accept the honour because of "the colonial trauma inflicted on the children of Africa".
Film maker Ken Loach said of his offer of an OBE in 1977: "It's all the things I think are despicable: patronage, deferring to the monarchy and the name of the British Empire, which is a monument of exploitation and conquest."
Others to have famously rejected honours include David Bowie, John Lennon, Nigella Lawson, Danny Boyle and French and Saunders.
Anisa is co-founder of Beatfreeks, who champion a community of young creatives in Birmingham, connecting them to businesses, government and funders to gain influence. The organisation's role is clear: "We're interested in getting young people their share of power in order to work with business, government and funders to build the institutions of the future."
The collective issued a powerful statement following the killing of George Floyd.
In a blogpost, Anisa reflects further on her decision to return her medal.
"Only 6% of these honours go to Black, Asian and minoritised backgrounds. It is not representative of the people who contribute to public life. If it was, every key worker and NHS worker right now would be on the Queen’s next list.
"But the fight here, I think, is not to get more people to get these awards. It’s to get more to consider giving them back."
She says: "We need a new system of recognition and honours for service to public life that is divorced from Empire and colonialism. As statues fall, so must the other antiquated symbols and emblems that do not represent the country we live in today and definitely not the one we are building for tomorrow.
"We need better education for young people on British history and heritage. Not whitewashed. The full picture should be understood and acknowledged including the history of Commonwealth so that we can explore what it means to move forwards. I am still learning. I have so much more to do and to understand. This is something I intend to reflect on and push actively through my role on the Legacy and Benefits committee of Birmingham2022."
She is backing calls to make black British history compulsory in schools.
John Crabtree, Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands, and holder of an OBE, said today he respected Anisa's decision.
"I know and have huge respect for Anisa and for what she does. She was a very worthy recipient of the British Empire Medal but I fully respect anyone's individual view on receiving the award, or not."
(Image: photo courtesy of John Crabtree)
Anisa's powerful letter, in full
"Dear Lord Lieutenant
I am writing to return my British Empire Medal (enclosed).
I'd like to share with you my reasons for doing so. I was 23 when I accepted this award for Services to Education and Young People.
I was one of the youngest I think at the time to have been awarded a BEM and I felt a combination of gratitude to those who put me forward, as well as pride, shame, fear and motivation.
Though I had reservations, after discussion with family and friends, i accepted this believing I could use the platform to make a change.
On a personal level I felt seen, validated and celebrated, which I needed at the time suffering with severe anxiety and depression.
On a professional level, I was setting up a social enterprise, Beatfreeks, and felt this could propel the movement forward.
I wanted to look forward to what the Empire could be and 'make the medal' into something that was positive. I wanted to reclaim the word.
Since I accepted this award I have worked with thousands of people of colour.
This is what I have learned.
Empire is a word that cannot be reclaimed.
It cannot be repurposed, reimagined or redefined.
Empire needs to be taught as British history. I was recognised for my services to education and young people - my service now is to join the calls for our education to bring this history to all schools and all young people - they have a right to understand the full story.
I'm inspired and informed by the Black Lives Matter movement and the activists who are risking everything - their lives, careers, freedom, relationships - in order to bring about justice and equality.
I can't stand for this too if I don't actively reject the honours system.
Celebrating and memorialising the Empire through awards and celebrations has real life impact now; it reinforces the hostile environment, institutional and everyday racism.
I've been considering returning the BEM since the day I accepted it but I now have the courage to say it.
I felt I was letting down the young people and my community who were so proud and supportive. I felt it was my responsibility to take this 'power' and do something incredible with it. Now I see it is my responsibility not to uphold forms of power that marginalise, exclude and harm."


birminghammail--2020-06-18--City 5G mast gets green light despite 200 objections

Residents are furious after a proposal for a new 5G mast in Northfield received the green light despite a 200-strong petition against it .
Birmingham City Council ’ s planning committee today ( June 18 ) voted in favour of mobile provider Three ’ s plan for a 20m-tall mast in the A38 Bristol Road South , close to Meadows Primary School .
The plan has been opposed by members of the community who petitioned against it , along with the head of the nearby school and two councillors .
The tower is being put up as part of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more masts to be added to fill gaps between existing poles .
In recent months there have been a number of claims linking 5G transmissions to the spread of Covid-19 and other illnesses , but these have been widely debunked by doctors and scientists as conspiracy theories .
Some of those opposing the construction of the tower did so citing health concerns .
This included a statement from the headteacher of Meadows Primary School which mentioned “ unresolved health concerns with 5G ” and also that the school had not been consulted .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ showed the technology was not harmful - and the site was essential for ensuring the local community benefited from faster reception .
A planning officer said during the meeting : “ This was considered to be the most appropriate site by the applicants to give them their 5G coverage.
” Planning law states Birmingham City Council ’ s planning committee could only consider whether prior approval is required for the location and design of the mast .
The planning committee voted in favour of the recommendation from officers not to require prior approval @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and two “ against ” while three abstained .
As a result , Three are free to proceed with its plans .
Following the meeting , Jason Bejai , one of the organisers of the petition which objected on grounds including health risks , visual impact and a lack of consultation , said he disputed points made in the report to councillors .
He said he was considering crowd-funding to take legal action against the city council .
“ It may be that we look at taking Birmingham City Council to court , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do so , we will do so .
“ People are calling this area the ‘ forgotten mile ’ , where the council seems to neglect green space and to dump rubbish on our infrastructure .
“ Yet again , the council has done ‘ to us ’ rather than done ‘ with us ’ .
It ’ s not acceptable.
” A previous statement from Three stated 5G is “ no different to any other mobile technology ” and the company ensures “ no harmful levels of radiation are emitted ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had previously objected on environmental grounds and that it would make the footpath too narrow .
He also disputed points in the report to councillors , and said : “ I find the decision to allow the 5G mast in the Northfield ward both disappointing and concerning .
“ It seems the information , opinion and requests of hundreds of residents , many businesses and the head of the local primary school ( which sits opposite the proposed site ) as well as that of myself as local councillor and the MP , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I hope this decision can be reconsidered .
I hope that we can learn to listen and include our communities more .
I hope that for once we are heard.
” The West Midlands has separately seen a number of suspected arson attacks since the start of the coronavirus crisis amid false claims linking 5G technology to the spread of Covid-19 .

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Residents are furious after a proposal for a new 5G mast in Northfield received the green light despite a 200-strong petition against it.
Birmingham City Council’s planning committee today (June 18) voted in favour of mobile provider Three’s plan for a 20m-tall mast in the A38 Bristol Road South, close to Meadows Primary School.
The plan has been opposed by members of the community who petitioned against it, along with the head of the nearby school and two councillors.
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The tower is being put up as part of a nationwide roll-out of 5G, which requires more masts to be added to fill gaps between existing poles.
In recent months there have been a number of claims linking 5G transmissions to the spread of Covid-19 and other illnesses, but these have been widely debunked by doctors and scientists as conspiracy theories.
Some of those opposing the construction of the tower did so citing health concerns.
This included a statement from the headteacher of Meadows Primary School which mentioned “unresolved health concerns with 5G” and also that the school had not been consulted.
However planning staff said the overwhelming evidence showed the technology was not harmful - and the site was essential for ensuring the local community benefited from faster reception.
A planning officer said during the meeting: “This was considered to be the most appropriate site by the applicants to give them their 5G coverage.”
Planning law states Birmingham City Council’s planning committee could only consider whether prior approval is required for the location and design of the mast.
The planning committee voted in favour of the recommendation from officers not to require prior approval with three members voting “for” and two “against” while three abstained.
As a result, Three are free to proceed with its plans.
Following the meeting, Jason Bejai, one of the organisers of the petition which objected on grounds including health risks, visual impact and a lack of consultation, said he disputed points made in the report to councillors.
He said he was considering crowd-funding to take legal action against the city council.
He said: “It beggars belief.
“It may be that we look at taking Birmingham City Council to court, and if we have to crowd fund to do so, we will do so.
“People are calling this area the ‘forgotten mile’, where the council seems to neglect green space and to dump rubbish on our infrastructure.
“Yet again, the council has done ‘to us’ rather than done ‘with us’. It’s not acceptable.”
A previous statement from Three stated 5G is “no different to any other mobile technology” and the company ensures “no harmful levels of radiation are emitted”.
Cllr Olly Armstrong, Labour, had previously objected on environmental grounds and that it would make the footpath too narrow.
He also disputed points in the report to councillors, and said: “I find the decision to allow the 5G mast in the Northfield ward both disappointing and concerning.
“It seems the information, opinion and requests of hundreds of residents, many businesses and the head of the local primary school (which sits opposite the proposed site) as well as that of myself as local councillor and the MP, have been both ignored and misrepresented.
“I hope this decision can be reconsidered. I hope that we can learn to listen and include our communities more. I hope that for once we are heard.”
The West Midlands has separately seen a number of suspected arson attacks since the start of the coronavirus crisis amid false claims linking 5G technology to the spread of Covid-19.
Committee member Cllr Julie Johnson (Lab) agreed with concerns from residents that “the planning notice was flawed” as it referred to the mast as being in West Heath rather than the ward of Northfield.
She said: “I’m not overly convinced that there has been enough consultation on this particular application and that does concern me because I think people have not necessarily realised where it is, what it is going to be and the impact that this is going to have.
“What concerns me is the lack of consultation because of the confusion referring to West Heath.”
Committee chair Cllr Karen McCarthy (Lab) said the consultation was driven by the location rather than the name of the area.
Cllr Gareth Moore (Con) said he thought “limited weight” should be given to objections around fears relating to health risks of 5G.


birminghammail--2020-06-19--Lichfield school set for £4.2 million expansion

Nether Stowe School is to receive a £4.2 million expansion to cope with an increased demand for school places in the area .
The project will see the front of the school extended to provide a new reception , extra classroom space and a brand new Sixth Form area , along with construction of a new , larger state-of-the-art sports hall .
Work is expected to be completed by September 2021 and is being done in two phases .
Phase 1 has already seen the demolition of the old youth centre on site , and work has now started on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ additional classrooms .
Phase 2 will see construction of the brand-new sports hall , and is expected to begin in July 2020 .
The facilities will be built by contractors Novus , on behalf of Staffordshire County Council and the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership ( ATLP ) .
The architects are Entrust .
County Councillor Philip White , Cabinet Member for Skills and Further Learning , said : “ New housing in and around the city means that there will be increased demand for secondary school places in the area .
`` With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ classrooms , sports hall and Sixth Form , Nether Stowe School will be able to welcome 150 more 11 to 16 year olds plus some additional sixth form pupils , once the project is complete .
“ Construction will take place over a year to minimise disruption to teachers and pupils as much as possible , with the new facilities opening in September 2021.
” Head teacher of Nether Stowe School , Glyn Langston-Jones , said : “ We ’ re delighted to be working alongside Staffordshire County Council on this ambitious project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have achieved at Nether Stowe and excited about the future .
“ This expansion will give even more children the opportunity to join us and receive a quality education .
`` We are looking forward to welcoming new students into our growing school community as we take another step nearer to seeing our vision come to life.
” Dean Povey , build senior operations manager at Novus , added : “ We know how important the facilities on offer at schools are to young people ’ s education experience and we take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest standards very seriously . ''
“ We ’ re looking forward to getting started on this project and our experience in the education sector will stand us in good stead .
`` We ’ re confident everyone involved with Nether Stowe school will be proud of the project for years to come once completed .
”

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Nether Stowe School is to receive a £4.2 million expansion to cope with an increased demand for school places in the area.
The project will see the front of the school extended to provide a new reception, extra classroom space and a brand new Sixth Form area, along with construction of a new, larger state-of-the-art sports hall.
Work is expected to be completed by September 2021 and is being done in two phases.
Phase 1 has already seen the demolition of the old youth centre on site, and work has now started on the construction of the reception area and additional classrooms.
Phase 2 will see construction of the brand-new sports hall, and is expected to begin in July 2020.
The facilities will be built by contractors Novus, on behalf of Staffordshire County Council and the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP). The architects are Entrust.
County Councillor Philip White, Cabinet Member for Skills and Further Learning, said: “New housing in and around the city means that there will be increased demand for secondary school places in the area.
"With the newly remodelled reception area, new classrooms, sports hall and Sixth Form, Nether Stowe School will be able to welcome 150 more 11 to 16 year olds plus some additional sixth form pupils, once the project is complete.
“Construction will take place over a year to minimise disruption to teachers and pupils as much as possible, with the new facilities opening in September 2021.”
Head teacher of Nether Stowe School, Glyn Langston-Jones, said: “We’re delighted to be working alongside Staffordshire County Council on this ambitious project. I’m proud of all we have achieved at Nether Stowe and excited about the future.
“This expansion will give even more children the opportunity to join us and receive a quality education.
"We are looking forward to welcoming new students into our growing school community as we take another step nearer to seeing our vision come to life.”
Dean Povey, build senior operations manager at Novus, added: “We know how important the facilities on offer at schools are to young people’s education experience and we take our role in delivering them to the highest standards very seriously."
“We’re looking forward to getting started on this project and our experience in the education sector will stand us in good stead.
"We’re confident everyone involved with Nether Stowe school will be proud of the project for years to come once completed.”


birminghammail--2020-06-19--VW Polo overturns in crash near beauty spot

This was the shocking aftermath after a Volkswagen Polo careered off the road and flipped over near a Midland beauty @ @ @ @ @ Police were sent to Brindley Heath Road , close to Cannock Chase , after the @ @ @ @ @ , June 18 .
Two people – who were inside the vehicle – managed to @ @ @ @ @ and were uninjured .
Contents from the hatchback vehicle were left strewn across the ground @ @ @ @ @ metal gate was also partially destroyed during the incident .
An investigation into how the @ @ @ @ @ .
A spokesman said : `` Yesterday evening officers attended a single vehicle road traffic @ @ @ @ @ just outside of Cannock Chase .
`` Thankfully both the driver and passenger walked away @ @ @ @ @ been much worse .
`` Enquiries underway to establish the cause . ''
West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ not called .

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This was the shocking aftermath after a Volkswagen Polo careered off the road and flipped over near a Midland beauty spot.
Officers from Staffordshire Police were sent to Brindley Heath Road, close to Cannock Chase, after the blue car rolled on Thursday, June 18.
Two people – who were inside the vehicle – managed to get before the emergency services and were uninjured.
Contents from the hatchback vehicle were left strewn across the ground following the crash. A metal gate was also partially destroyed during the incident.
An investigation into how the crash happened is under way.
A spokesman said: "Yesterday evening officers attended a single vehicle road traffic collision on Brindley Heath Road just outside of Cannock Chase.
"Thankfully both the driver and passenger walked away uninjured however it could have been much worse.
"Enquiries underway to establish the cause."
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were not called.


birminghammail--2020-06-19--This Morning viewers squirm as Eamonn slaps Ruth's bum live on air

This Morning viewers have reacted with astonishment after Eamonn Holmes brazenly smacked his wife 's bottom live on air .
This Morning aired on Friday morning on ITV1 , with husband and wife duo Eamonn and Ruth Langsford presenting the show .
The pair stepped in to replace Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield on Friday 's instalment of the ITV1 daytime programme .
But Eamonn 's actions during one segment left This Morning viewers feeling uncomfortable - though many claimed it was `` hilarious . ''
Viewers naturally flocked to social media to have their say after watching Eamonn slap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Did Eamonn really just slap Ruth 's bum live on TV ?
?
? ''
one asked .
A second tweeted : `` @ EamonnHolmes smacking Ruth on the a*** !
!
# thismorning . ''
A third wrote : `` Honestly laughing so hard at @ EamonnHolmes cheekily tapping @ RuthieeL out the way is the highlight of my morning lol # ThisMorning .
As Eamonn walked behind his wife , he tapped Ruth on the bum with his hand .
`` Oh ! ''
Ruth exclaimed as she laughed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' `` You were blocking me , you were in the way there , '' Eamonn said .
`` I was just about to speak , '' Ruth said .
This Morning continues on Monday from 10am on ITV1 with Holly and Phil back presenting .

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This Morning viewers have reacted with astonishment after Eamonn Holmes brazenly smacked his wife's bottom live on air.
This Morning aired on Friday morning on ITV1, with husband and wife duo Eamonn and Ruth Langsford presenting the show.
The pair stepped in to replace Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield on Friday's instalment of the ITV1 daytime programme.
But Eamonn's actions during one segment left This Morning viewers feeling uncomfortable - though many claimed it was "hilarious."
Viewers naturally flocked to social media to have their say after watching Eamonn slap Ruth on the bum during the show.
"Did Eamonn really just slap Ruth's bum live on TV???" one asked.
A second tweeted: "@EamonnHolmes smacking Ruth on the a***!! #thismorning."
A third wrote: "Honestly laughing so hard at @EamonnHolmes cheekily tapping @RuthieeL out the way is the highlight of my morning lol #ThisMorning.
As Eamonn walked behind his wife, he tapped Ruth on the bum with his hand.
"Oh!" Ruth exclaimed as she laughed. "What are you doing?"
"You were blocking me, you were in the way there," Eamonn said.
"I was just about to speak," Ruth said.
This Morning continues on Monday from 10am on ITV1 with Holly and Phil back presenting.


birminghammail--2020-06-19--The EFL update West Brom and Leeds United fans will want to ignore

The EFL have issued a new update that West Bromwich Albion will be hoping can be ignored .
With the Baggies and Leeds fighting closely for a title - and both teams favourites to secure automatic promotion to the top flight , today 's latest will hope to be little more than a footnote for Albion fans .
This coming weekend sees the Championship return to action following a three-month suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the West Bromwich Albion news with our daily newsletter .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ put on pause what was proving to be an exciting race for the play-offs , with just six points separating Preston North End in sixth and QPR in 13th .
That means this latest announcement will be of interest to a number of Championship clubs , and ideally not the Albion .
Play-off semi-finals will take place over five days in July with the final being held at Wembley Stadium in August .
The first legs will be held on Sunday , July 26 , when sixth hosts third , and Monday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fifth .
Third will then host sixth on Wednesday , July 29 , before fourth hosts fifth a day later .
The winners of the two semi-finals will have under a week to prepare for the final , which will be held on Tuesday , August 4 .
A midweek evening kick-off for a play-off final is sure to raise eyebrows , with the matches usually being held on the weekend .
All the games will be held behind closed doors , but fans will be able to watch them live on Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a full round of fixtures as top two Leeds United and Albion seek to continue their push for automatic promotion .
With third-placed Fulham six points off the second-placed Baggies , both the top two will be hoping that today ’ s announcement from the EFL is of no relevance to them .
However , as proven by recent seasons - almost anything can occur during the Championship run-in .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (David Byrom, James Rushton)

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The EFL have issued a new update that West Bromwich Albion will be hoping can be ignored.
With the Baggies and Leeds fighting closely for a title - and both teams favourites to secure automatic promotion to the top flight, today's latest will hope to be little more than a footnote for Albion fans.
This coming weekend sees the Championship return to action following a three-month suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic.
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 .
It put on pause what was proving to be an exciting race for the play-offs, with just six points separating Preston North End in sixth and QPR in 13th.
That means this latest announcement will be of interest to a number of Championship clubs, and ideally not the Albion.
Play-off semi-finals will take place over five days in July with the final being held at Wembley Stadium in August.
The first legs will be held on Sunday, July 26, when sixth hosts third, and Monday, July 27, when fourth travels to fifth.
Third will then host sixth on Wednesday, July 29, before fourth hosts fifth a day later.
The winners of the two semi-finals will have under a week to prepare for the final, which will be held on Tuesday, August 4.
A midweek evening kick-off for a play-off final is sure to raise eyebrows, with the matches usually being held on the weekend.
All the games will be held behind closed doors, but fans will be able to watch them live on Sky Sports.
The Championship resumes this weekend with a full round of fixtures as top two Leeds United and Albion seek to continue their push for automatic promotion.
With third-placed Fulham six points off the second-placed Baggies, both the top two will be hoping that today’s announcement from the EFL is of no relevance to them.
However, as proven by recent seasons - almost anything can occur during the Championship run-in.
Championship play-off dates:
Semi-final first legs:
Sixth vs third - Sunday, July 26, 18.30
Fifth vs fourth - Monday, July 27, 19.45
Semi-final second legs:
Third vs sixth - Wednesday, July 29, 19.45
Fourth vs fifth - Thursday, July 30, 19.45
Final - Tuesday, August 4, 19.45


birminghammail--2020-06-19--Aston Villa fans send Dean Smith clear Keinan Davis message

Keinan Davis won many plaudits for his performance against Sheffield United on Wednesday night .
Jack Grealish and Dean Smith both praised the striker for his efforts in the controversial 0-0 draw .
As well as Davis played - Villa were unable to find a way past an inspired Dean Henderson and they remain in the bottom three .
Villa fans also endorsed the 22-year-old - but many demanded Dean Smith give the youngster some help .
Here ’ s what you ’ ve been saying .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date @ @ @ @ @ @ @ region .
Google Play Store and App Store Darren French : Worked hard , was a constant menace .
Would have been nice if he would have hurried that header in the first half , good save from another chance too , on another day he would have scored those 2 and would have deserved MOTM .
Fine margins .
Tommy Keenan : We looked much better with a proper target man up there .
Wesley didnt make the runs and wasnt as good at holding up .
Samatta you cant go direct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big centre halfs so the ball comes back quickly ... Daves gave us a playform to build n the midfield was able to gamble knowin the ball will be sticking up there !
Chris Quain : He played excellent .
All he was missing was a goal .
Really hope that he gets a goal soon .
He isn ’ t known for his goal scoring .
Henderson last night made some crazy saves .
Maybe throw SAMAGOAL up there too he could head anything in Tony Barr : Excellent performance ... he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , made the defender worked hard ... came across a keeper who is on top form ... Dean Henvey : Should have stuck that header away first and foremost .
But he was very lively and forced a good save from the keeper , 9 times out of 10 would have been a goal , I ’ d like to see him and Samatta up top together as a front two .
Derek Hart : He needs a good run to build confidence not be dropped after a couple of games , also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a good winger to create chances .
Mohammed Ady Adnan : He looked good , If he stays fit and not keep getting injured he will be like a new signing and gives us competition up front Sim Mattis : Did well in terms of effort could have had a couple of goals .
He needs someone up with him , He ’ s like Emile Heskey ... ... without Michael Owen .
Howard Hodgson : Hard working centre forward .
Big , strong , a handful to play against , but a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Emile Heskey.. Nilesh Mistry : He did really well , like him compared to Wes and samatta .
Should have Grealish behind him for support Craig Chapman : Needs Samatta alongside him or even better , O ’ Hare buzzing around him Barry Robertson : Worked hard didn ’ t need to commit so many fouls and maybe should have buried the header Ken Wiggins : We have no decent attacking options , whoever you pick .
However , would have liked to see him paired with Somatta , and see how that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will hopefully make him an explosive beast , he has pace and power , all the attributes of a top forward , goals will come soon for all our sakes , hard worker , good team player .
Kerry Overington : The goal incident ?
, he actually pushed himself into nyland he had time to stop and we wouldn ’ t have all this controversy , and he should have scored twice , one being a clear chance and the other a sitter Carl Andrews : Reminds me of Heskey we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure and I think one up front isn ’ t working Johnny Ojeil : Need two up front never has worked with one Matthew Verity : Same as always ... .no goals ... so what is the point ?
!
?
Nick Howlett : Brilliant , it ’ ll only get better the more he plays and the rhythm works around him Craig Hedges : Brilliant .
Would be better with the support of another striker

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Keinan Davis won many plaudits for his performance against Sheffield United on Wednesday night.
Jack Grealish and Dean Smith both praised the striker for his efforts in the controversial 0-0 draw.
As well as Davis played - Villa were unable to find a way past an inspired Dean Henderson and they remain in the bottom three.
Villa fans also endorsed the 22-year-old - but many demanded Dean Smith give the youngster some help.
Here’s what you’ve been saying.
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
Darren French: Worked hard, was a constant menace. Would have been nice if he would have hurried that header in the first half, good save from another chance too, on another day he would have scored those 2 and would have deserved MOTM. Fine margins.
Tommy Keenan: We looked much better with a proper target man up there. Wesley didnt make the runs and wasnt as good at holding up. Samatta you cant go direct to as he is small against 2 big centre halfs so the ball comes back quickly...Daves gave us a playform to build n the midfield was able to gamble knowin the ball will be sticking up there!
Chris Quain: He played excellent. All he was missing was a goal. Really hope that he gets a goal soon. He isn’t known for his goal scoring. Henderson last night made some crazy saves. Maybe throw SAMAGOAL up there too he could head anything in
Tony Barr: Excellent performance ... he played well , kept the ball well , made the defender worked hard ... came across a keeper who is on top form ...
Dean Henvey: Should have stuck that header away first and foremost. But he was very lively and forced a good save from the keeper, 9 times out of 10 would have been a goal, I’d like to see him and Samatta up top together as a front two.
Derek Hart: He needs a good run to build confidence not be dropped after a couple of games, also he needs someone playing alongside him and a good winger to create chances.
Mohammed Ady Adnan: He looked good, If he stays fit and not keep getting injured he will be like a new signing and gives us competition up front
Sim Mattis: Did well in terms of effort could have had a couple of goals. He needs someone up with him, He’s like Emile Heskey...... without Michael Owen.
Howard Hodgson: Hard working centre forward. Big, strong, a handful to play against, but a poor finisher.. Reminds me a lot of Emile Heskey..
Nilesh Mistry: He did really well, like him compared to Wes and samatta. Should have Grealish behind him for support
Craig Chapman: Needs Samatta alongside him or even better, O’Hare buzzing around him
Barry Robertson: Worked hard didn’t need to commit so many fouls and maybe should have buried the header
Ken Wiggins: We have no decent attacking options, whoever you pick. However, would have liked to see him paired with Somatta, and see how that works.
Craig Heath: One goal will hopefully make him an explosive beast, he has pace and power, all the attributes of a top forward, goals will come soon for all our sakes, hard worker, good team player.
Kerry Overington: The goal incident ? , he actually pushed himself into nyland he had time to stop and we wouldn’t have all this controversy , and he should have scored twice , one being a clear chance and the other a sitter
Carl Andrews: Reminds me of Heskey we need a proven goal scorer next season for sure and I think one up front isn’t working
Johnny Ojeil: Need two up front never has worked with one
Matthew Verity: Same as always....no goals...so what is the point?!?
Nick Howlett: Brilliant, it’ll only get better the more he plays and the rhythm works around him
Craig Hedges: Brilliant. Would be better with the support of another striker


birminghammail--2020-06-19--Bellingham, Kieftenbeld, West Brom - Pep Clotet's transcript

Pep Clotet held his first press conference for more than three months ahead of Birmingham City ’ s trip to West Bromwich Albion .
It was also the first since he announced his intention to leave the club at the end of the season .
There was plenty to talk about over Zoom , notably the reason why he has decided to move on , the state of Blues ’ depleted squad and Jude Bellingham ’ s future .
Here ’ s the transcript of what was discussed .
First of all , let me say that I am very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the safety measures that need to be in place .
I ’ m very happy for t to be back especially for the Bluenose family , but my condolences to any of those that have been affected .
We have worked very well during this period and it has allowed us to focus our work .
The medical and fitness staff have been fantastic and kept on top of all the work that needed to be done .
We took the equipment that we had in the gym and put it into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own programs .
That resulted in the players coming back very healthy .
We have managed to do enough training to make sure we are competitive and back to where we were on Saturday .
And a lot of work to remind the players how we all play together and how we all understand what we ’ re doing , and I think we are in a good moment despite the fact that we know the squad is not very big .
We just hope we can crack on .
I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the team .
I ’ ve talked to people in the Bundesliga as well as with some of my former colleagues in Spain and I ’ m convinced that the physical condition of the players at the end of this period might actually be better than everybody thinks .
We ’ ve got to see what clubs have done their homework during this period and what clubs haven ’ t .
But I ’ m convinced we ’ ve done our homework and we should be in a good moment physically .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be than after a pre-season when there is more risk of injuries .
Bench very young without the likes of Montero and Maghoma .
Concerned ?
Yes .
The three players that we lost , Kerim , Maghoma and Montero were all wingers , which puts us in the position now where we don ’ t have many options .
But I still think if we ’ re lucky in terms of avoiding injuries we still have a squad that is very comfortable playing game in and game out .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ satisfied we can be competitive and the fact that we don ’ t have a big squad with a lot of depth I ’ m satisfied that we ’ ve done a lot of work during the whole season to cope with the situation .
Young players that have stood out ?
All of them have done a fantastic job during this period and they have been training with us .
Very positive [ Ryan ] Stirk , Nico [ Gordon ] Boyd-Munce .
How is Jude looking ?
He has come back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looks like he has grown a little bit , he has worked a lot on some muscle groups that needed work .
So I think he looks a bit stronger and more confident in his performance .
He has grown a lot into his own mentality .
I think he is ready .
The good thing with Jude is we have been using him in a position to bed him in , one that gives him a lot of freedom off the wing , the same kind of football that Fran [ Villalba @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now I see he is more physically strong as well to get into other positions in the pitch – closer to his own natural position , which is good and gives us more options .
I am very happy to see how he came back , I see him very focused on us and having a strong finish to the season .
I see nothing from him that makes me believe his head is not here .
I think his head is here .
I don ’ t know maybe in his free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ classes or Manchester accent classes – I don ’ t know .
But I think he looks very confident and comfortable in his situation .
I can ’ t give any insight into his transfer situation because it is something related to next season so I never even asked .
Explain why you are leaving ?
That is a personal decision for me .
It all comes from the fact I never applied for this job or looked for this job .
The club was in a very difficult situation last summer and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it forward the way they did .
I was put in that position with a huge task in front of me of balancing a very difficult summer , very difficult pre-season , the loss of key players like Che , Jota , Morro – and with a huge ambition from the board , the chairman .
I always loved the huge challenge .
The goals were very simple but very ambitious .
The first goal was they wanted to club to make the right steps to develop their style of football – not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like we were for a couple of seasons in a row .
The second goal was to try to create future value for the club with the development of young talent and within the squad .
And obviously the circumstances leading to that were not the best because there was a lot of decisions in the summer which caused a little bit of a shock .
The pre-season was not the best and the fact we lost some players made it a huge challenge .
The third situation that was very important to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the same time as having results to make sure we don ’ t get ourselves into the difficult situations the club was facing before – while trying to get into a better position financially going forward .
We made money for the club with the sales of those players , I think we made a huge transition from what we were , to the playing style - the stats are there .
At the same time I took the right decisions to make sure the club was always competitive enough to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never under threat .
When it comes to the target of developing young players , I think that has been proven because six players made their debut and the development of Jude helps to ensure that the club should be very stable financially going forward .
It all adds to a situation I did my part in the project , accomplished the goals that were set and I think I won my own legitimate right to share a project that is common for the club and for me .
That was the project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is fair for me to say ‘ The job has been done , now I would like to do my project together with my club ’ .
That was basically why I made the decision .
I am very happy with the way Birmingham handled it .
I always very aware that possibly the fans would not like that but I am very happy that they understood the reasons and they respect me for the job we did and the fact I always tried to put the club in front of me .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially for doing it the way we did it , respecting my decision and for allowing us to finish this season and understand the job has been done .
They decided to make it public , which I think is fair , it gives them time to prepare the future .
The last thing I wanted is for us to get into a very short summer between seasons and I take that decision on the last day and the club has no time to be ready for what is ahead .
That is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the club – that it can be prepared and start the process .
We made 400 tests and we had two positives .
Which in our opinion is very , very low and those positives were including staff and players and including the second and third rounds – out of eight ( rounds ) .
It was in the beginning when we started the group work and they were completely asymptomatic , we followed the protocol and these people were allowed to get back to work in 11 days , which they did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every time we test 50 so I was surprised , I was expecting a higher number .
With this test we only test if someone has it now – we don ’ t know if someone has already had it .
But we have everyone available now .
Josh McEachran is not available , and we have two players who have minor injuries , I don ’ t know if they are going to be available for Saturday or next week but it ’ s nothing of concern at the minute .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because that ’ s the only thing I can not tell Slaven [ Bilic ] .
” I see a very strong West Brom in these final nine games .
I think with the squad West Brom have – and with all the talks I have been having with managers in the Bundesliga and in Spain – I think the fact they have a lot of depth and quality and a huge squad will give them a little bit more of an advantage to be honest .
Anything could happen between those two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will push to get a lot of points but I see West Brom as a clear , clear candidate for the title .
For the nature of Slaven and our own image as well I think it will possibly be a more controlled game tactically and the crowd will not have an impact on the game opening up as often happens in the Championship .
We need to be at our best , we know it is very difficult and need to do our jobs , the very small weaknesses they have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to be about focus and about us respecting the opposition but trusting ourselves in our conditioning .
I wanted to give Maikel 90 minutes - a lot of players to play 90 minutes before Saturday – and it was not easy to get through but I am pleased how they handled that game against Wolves .
With Jeremie I want to make sure he manages the remaining nine games , he is coming from a massive injury that he recovered very well , I am on the cautious side with him .

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Pep Clotet held his first press conference for more than three months ahead of Birmingham City’s trip to West Bromwich Albion.
It was also the first since he announced his intention to leave the club at the end of the season.
There was plenty to talk about over Zoom, notably the reason why he has decided to move on, the state of Blues’ depleted squad and Jude Bellingham’s future.
Here’s the transcript of what was discussed.
Squad update
First of all, let me say that I am very happy that football is back with all the safety measures that need to be in place.
I’m very happy for t to be back especially for the Bluenose family, but my condolences to any of those that have been affected.
We have worked very well during this period and it has allowed us to focus our work.
The medical and fitness staff have been fantastic and kept on top of all the work that needed to be done.
We took the equipment that we had in the gym and put it into the players’ houses to work on their own programs. That resulted in the players coming back very healthy.
We have managed to do enough training to make sure we are competitive and back to where we were on Saturday.
And a lot of work to remind the players how we all play together and how we all understand what we’re doing, and I think we are in a good moment despite the fact that we know the squad is not very big. We just hope we can crack on.
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
Close to fitness as a normal pre-season?
I’m very satisfied with the physical condition of the team. I’ve talked to people in the Bundesliga as well as with some of my former colleagues in Spain and I’m convinced that the physical condition of the players at the end of this period might actually be better than everybody thinks.
We’ve got to see what clubs have done their homework during this period and what clubs haven’t.
But I’m convinced we’ve done our homework and we should be in a good moment physically.
I’m less worried than I would be than after a pre-season when there is more risk of injuries.
(Image: Tim Harley-Easthope/BirminghamLive)
Bench very young without the likes of Montero and Maghoma. Concerned?
Yes. The three players that we lost, Kerim, Maghoma and Montero were all wingers, which puts us in the position now where we don’t have many options.
But I still think if we’re lucky in terms of avoiding injuries we still have a squad that is very comfortable playing game in and game out.
It’s not the best but I’m satisfied we can be competitive and the fact that we don’t have a big squad with a lot of depth I’m satisfied that we’ve done a lot of work during the whole season to cope with the situation.
Young players that have stood out?
All of them have done a fantastic job during this period and they have been training with us. Very positive [Ryan] Stirk, Nico [Gordon] Boyd-Munce.
How is Jude looking?
He has come back very, very well physically, he looks like he has grown a little bit, he has worked a lot on some muscle groups that needed work.
So I think he looks a bit stronger and more confident in his performance. He has grown a lot into his own mentality. I think he is ready.
The good thing with Jude is we have been using him in a position to bed him in, one that gives him a lot of freedom off the wing, the same kind of football that Fran [Villalba] or Dan Crowley were doing.
Now I see he is more physically strong as well to get into other positions in the pitch – closer to his own natural position, which is good and gives us more options.
Jude Bellingham transfer latest Birmingham City’s Jude Bellingham is one of the most highly-regarded teenagers in the Europe. Since breaking Trevor Francis’ long-standing record as the club’s youngest ever player last August, the midfielder has been a revelation. He followed up his debut at Portsmouth with a first goal in the victory over Stoke and has gone on to make 35 appearances, scoring four times. He is regarded as a generational talent and Blues had to withstand interest from Manchester United in the January transfer window. But the speculation remained with United, amongst others, continuing to pursue Blues’ crown jewel. His future is sure to be one of the longer-running sagas of the transfer window and Blues are holding out for a huge fee. What's been said about Jude's future - READ Jude pays brilliant tribute to Pep Clotet - READ
Affected by the speculation?
I am very happy to see how he came back, I see him very focused on us and having a strong finish to the season.
I see nothing from him that makes me believe his head is not here. I think his head is here.
I don’t know maybe in his free time he has been having some German classes or Manchester accent classes – I don’t know.
But I think he looks very confident and comfortable in his situation.
I can’t give any insight into his transfer situation because it is something related to next season so I never even asked.
Explain why you are leaving?
That is a personal decision for me. It all comes from the fact I never applied for this job or looked for this job.
The club was in a very difficult situation last summer and the club took the decision of carrying it forward the way they did.
I was put in that position with a huge task in front of me of balancing a very difficult summer, very difficult pre-season, the loss of key players like Che, Jota, Morro – and with a huge ambition from the board, the chairman. I always loved the huge challenge.
The goals were very simple but very ambitious.
The first goal was they wanted to club to make the right steps to develop their style of football – not be the most direct team in football like we were for a couple of seasons in a row.
The second goal was to try to create future value for the club with the development of young talent and within the squad.
And obviously the circumstances leading to that were not the best because there was a lot of decisions in the summer which caused a little bit of a shock.
The pre-season was not the best and the fact we lost some players made it a huge challenge.
The third situation that was very important to the club that we make those steps at the same time as having results to make sure we don’t get ourselves into the difficult situations the club was facing before – while trying to get into a better position financially going forward.
We made money for the club with the sales of those players, I think we made a huge transition from what we were, to the playing style - the stats are there.
At the same time I took the right decisions to make sure the club was always competitive enough to make sure our position in the Championship was never under threat.
When it comes to the target of developing young players, I think that has been proven because six players made their debut and the development of Jude helps to ensure that the club should be very stable financially going forward.
It all adds to a situation I did my part in the project, accomplished the goals that were set and I think I won my own legitimate right to share a project that is common for the club and for me.
That was the project of the club, I think it is fair for me to say ‘The job has been done, now I would like to do my project together with my club’.
That was basically why I made the decision.
I am very happy with the way Birmingham handled it.
Timing of announcement
I always very aware that possibly the fans would not like that but I am very happy that they understood the reasons and they respect me for the job we did and the fact I always tried to put the club in front of me.
I would like to thank the club especially for doing it the way we did it, respecting my decision and for allowing us to finish this season and understand the job has been done.
They decided to make it public, which I think is fair, it gives them time to prepare the future. The last thing I wanted is for us to get into a very short summer between seasons and I take that decision on the last day and the club has no time to be ready for what is ahead.
That is a part of love from me for the club – that it can be prepared and start the process.
On Covid-19 tests
We made 400 tests and we had two positives.
Which in our opinion is very, very low and those positives were including staff and players and including the second and third rounds – out of eight (rounds).
It was in the beginning when we started the group work and they were completely asymptomatic, we followed the protocol and these people were allowed to get back to work in 11 days, which they did a couple of weeks ago.
Remember every time we test 50 so I was surprised, I was expecting a higher number.
With this test we only test if someone has it now – we don’t know if someone has already had it. But we have everyone available now.
Team news
Josh McEachran is not available, and we have two players who have minor injuries, I don’t know if they are going to be available for Saturday or next week but it’s nothing of concern at the minute.
I will keep that close to my chest because that’s the only thing I can not tell Slaven [Bilic].”
Thoughts about West Brom
I see a very strong West Brom in these final nine games.
I think with the squad West Brom have – and with all the talks I have been having with managers in the Bundesliga and in Spain – I think the fact they have a lot of depth and quality and a huge squad will give them a little bit more of an advantage to be honest.
Anything could happen between those two. Fulham will be strong as well and will push to get a lot of points but I see West Brom as a clear, clear candidate for the title.
No crowd impact local derby?
For the nature of Slaven and our own image as well I think it will possibly be a more controlled game tactically and the crowd will not have an impact on the game opening up as often happens in the Championship.
We need to be at our best, we know it is very difficult and need to do our jobs, the very small weaknesses they have we have to maximise.
It is going to be about focus and about us respecting the opposition but trusting ourselves in our conditioning.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Kieftenbeld full 90 v Wolves
I wanted to give Maikel 90 minutes - a lot of players to play 90 minutes before Saturday – and it was not easy to get through but I am pleased how they handled that game against Wolves.
Bela
With Jeremie I want to make sure he manages the remaining nine games, he is coming from a massive injury that he recovered very well, I am on the cautious side with him.


birminghammail--2020-06-19--Another Birmingham Airport airline ramps up flights - but with strict rules

Yet another Birmingham Airport airline has announced a ramping up of services as it increases the frequency of its flights .
In recent days and weeks , the transport hub , in Solihull , near the NEC , has been eerily quiet , with limited services and grounded flights .
But now carrier Air France has confirmed it will resume the vast majority of its services to and from the UK .
And , pleasingly for Brummies , this includes Birmingham Airport .
Paris Charles de Gaulle ( Paris CDG ) airport will be flying to the airport in Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules .
Birmingham passengers will be asked to wear face masks throughout the journey .
Temperature checks are also expected , as well as strict social distancing measures , extensive and thorough cleaning of flights , and limited menus while on board .
Benedicte Duval , general manager for UK & Ireland said , '' After this challenging period , we are delighted to be in a position to resume flights from almost all of our UK stations this summer and we look forward to once again connecting UK business and leisure passengers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Ryanair , TUI , EasyJet , British Airways , Jet2 and Norwegian have also confirmed a ramping of flight schedules over the coming weeks .

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Yet another Birmingham Airport airline has announced a ramping up of services as it increases the frequency of its flights.
In recent days and weeks, the transport hub, in Solihull, near the NEC, has been eerily quiet, with limited services and grounded flights.
But now carrier Air France has confirmed it will resume the vast majority of its services to and from the UK.
And, pleasingly for Brummies, this includes Birmingham Airport.
Paris Charles de Gaulle (Paris CDG) airport will be flying to the airport in Birmingham from July - albeit with some strict rules.
Birmingham passengers will be asked to wear face masks throughout the journey.
Temperature checks are also expected, as well as strict social distancing measures, extensive and thorough cleaning of flights, and limited menus while on board.
Benedicte Duval, general manager for UK & Ireland said,"After this challenging period, we are delighted to be in a position to resume flights from almost all of our UK stations this summer and we look forward to once again connecting UK business and leisure passengers with our worldwide network via Paris CDG."
Ryanair, TUI, EasyJet, British Airways, Jet2 and Norwegian have also confirmed a ramping of flight schedules over the coming weeks.


birminghammail--2020-06-19--Pub chain with Solihull venue set to reopen - and challenges PM to stop them

A pub chain with a venue in Solihull is set to ignore Government and reopen .
Oakham Inns runs The Globe in Warwick and Four Alls in Welford-on-Avon as well as The Beech House in Solihull .
Its founder has vowed to reopen all of its sites on 4 July - with or without the government 's say so .
`` We can not wait for the government to make a decision , '' Peter Borg-Neal has announced , adding : `` To open without proper forward planning would also be wrong . ''
He continued : `` I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We need to plan ahead , get staff off furlough , remove furniture , install hand-washing stations , change layouts in pubs .
`` You ca n't just give us a couple of days ' notice and expect us to open safely . ''
He added : `` We would not open unless we thought it was 100 % -safe to do so . ''
`` If they wanted to stop us , they could threaten a licencing review , in which they would need to show that we have broken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seek legal advice on this , '' Mr Borg-Neal said .
`` In a conflict situation we might not open all of our pubs immediately , I could just open one or two to see what they do . ''
`` We can hang around and definitely go bust , or open and see if they destroy us , '' he said .

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A pub chain with a venue in Solihull is set to ignore Government and reopen.
Oakham Inns runs The Globe in Warwick and Four Alls in Welford-on-Avon as well as The Beech House in Solihull.
Its founder has vowed to reopen all of its sites on 4 July - with or without the government's say so.
"We cannot wait for the government to make a decision," Peter Borg-Neal has announced, adding: "To open without proper forward planning would also be wrong."
He continued: "I'm not trying to be some reckless rebel.
"We need to plan ahead, get staff off furlough, remove furniture, install hand-washing stations, change layouts in pubs.
"You can't just give us a couple of days' notice and expect us to open safely."
He added: "We would not open unless we thought it was 100%-safe to do so."
"If they wanted to stop us, they could threaten a licencing review, in which they would need to show that we have broken licencing laws. I do intend to seek legal advice on this," Mr Borg-Neal said.
"In a conflict situation we might not open all of our pubs immediately, I could just open one or two to see what they do."
"We can hang around and definitely go bust, or open and see if they destroy us," he said.


birminghammail--2020-06-19--What TV channel is West Brom vs Blues on? Stream info and team news

The Championship season is back and restarts with Birmingham City standing in the way of West Bromwich Albion ’ s pursuit of Leeds United .
Blues arrive at The Hawthorns on Saturday , June 20 ready to play or the first time in three months and having come within a minute of beating Wolves in last weekend ’ s friendly at St Andrew ’ s .
Albion defeated Manchester United in one of their two games at Old Trafford and resume their campaign a point and a place behind the league leaders .
Unfortunately the remainder of the 2019/2020 fixtures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – but fear not , there ’ s plenty to enjoy on television .
Here 's what you need to know .
What time is kick off ?
The match kicks off at 3pm .
Before that Brentford travel to Fulham in a 12.30pm kick-off , while Leeds go to Cardiff on Sunday , June 21 .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the West Bromwich Albion news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free 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 Is it on TV ?
The game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s not on a terrestrial channel but season ticket holders from both clubs can access the game via their respective clubs .
Both Albion and Blues have offered the match – and the remaining eight fixtures after it – as one of their compensation options for season tickets .
Info on how to watch on Albion ’ s iFollow feed can be found here .
Details on how to watch on Blues TV can be found here .
What happened in the reverse match ?
The teams met at St Andrew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really well , taking the lead through Lukas Jutkiewicz , only for Grady Diangana to equalise .
The hosts reclaimed the advantage when Harlee Dean made it 2-1 – which brought Charlie Austin from the bench .
The former Southampton striker showed his experience and Premier League class with two goals against an inexperienced Blues backline to hand Slaven Bilic a 3-2 victory .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Birmingham City news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest Blues news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free 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 Diangana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hamstring injury that blighted him before lock down , while Ahmed Hegazi is also back .
Blues are boosted by the return to fitness of Jeremie Bela , following his hamstring pull in February .
However , they have seen Kerim Mrabti and Jacques Maghoma leave the squad at the end of contracts .
You can get 4/7 on an Albion win , 3/1 the draw and 9/2 for Blues to emerge victorious .

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The Championship season is back and restarts with Birmingham City standing in the way of West Bromwich Albion’s pursuit of Leeds United.
Blues arrive at The Hawthorns on Saturday, June 20 ready to play or the first time in three months and having come within a minute of beating Wolves in last weekend’s friendly at St Andrew’s.
Albion defeated Manchester United in one of their two games at Old Trafford and resume their campaign a point and a place behind the league leaders.
Unfortunately the remainder of the 2019/2020 fixtures will all be played behind closed doors – but fear not, there’s plenty to enjoy on television.
Here's what you need to know.
What time is kick off?
The match kicks off at 3pm.
Before that Brentford travel to Fulham in a 12.30pm kick-off, while Leeds go to Cardiff on Sunday, June 21.
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 .
Is it on TV?
The game is being broadcast by Sky Sports.
Is West Brom v Birmingham City free-to-air?
It’s not on a terrestrial channel but season ticket holders from both clubs can access the game via their respective clubs.
Both Albion and Blues have offered the match – and the remaining eight fixtures after it – as one of their compensation options for season tickets.
Info on how to watch on Albion’s iFollow feed can be found here.
Details on how to watch on Blues TV can be found here.
What happened in the reverse match?
The teams met at St Andrew’s in December and Blues played really well, taking the lead through Lukas Jutkiewicz, only for Grady Diangana to equalise.
The hosts reclaimed the advantage when Harlee Dean made it 2-1 – which brought Charlie Austin from the bench.
The former Southampton striker showed his experience and Premier League class with two goals against an inexperienced Blues backline to hand Slaven Bilic a 3-2 victory.
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
Team news
Diangana is back, fit and free from the hamstring injury that blighted him before lock down, while Ahmed Hegazi is also back.
Blues are boosted by the return to fitness of Jeremie Bela, following his hamstring pull in February. However, they have seen Kerim Mrabti and Jacques Maghoma leave the squad at the end of contracts.
Match odds
You can get 4/7 on an Albion win, 3/1 the draw and 9/2 for Blues to emerge victorious.