birminghammail--2020-04-15--Latest from the Government's daily press conference

Health Secretary Matt Hancock attempted to head off claims that the Government has failed care home workers by announcing plans to step up testing , and provide them with protective equipment including gloves and masks .
It follows claims that care homes have been left to fend for themselves .
In Birmingham , 24 separate homes have reported cases of covid-19 coronavirus among residents and staff and at one care home in Erdington four residents have died .
Mr Hancock said health and care workers were saving lives..
He said : `` From the moment of the emergence of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most vulnerable to this disease are in social care . ''
He added : `` Our goal throughout has been to protect residents to support our 1.5 million colleagues who work in social care . ''
He set out proposals to help social care workers including : i ) Ensuring that all care home residnts who are discharged from hospital are testedbefore being admitted into their care home ; testing all care home reisents who show symptoms of coronavirus , and testing everyone working in social care , and members of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ii ) A new online delivery system to get PPE protective equipment to social care providers , delivered directly via the royal mail .
iii ) A single brand for social care to symboline the entire care profession .
This is the word `` Care '' in white letters on a green backhground .
The Government is asking the public and businesses to recognise the work of Care workers in a similar way to NHS workers - for example , with supermarkets offering them the same special access as they currently offer to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown will not end soon , although the Government is to announce its official decision tomorrow .
He said : `` This shared sacrficie is starting to work ... but we will not lift these measures until it is safe to do so . ''
Earlier , the Government faced a backlash over its handling of the growing crisis .
Professor Martin Green , chief executive of Care England , which represents independent social care services , said there have been thousands of cases and deaths in care homes , while HC-One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operator , said two-thirds of its homes are affected and it has seen more than 300 deaths .
But many care homes say they are not receiving the protective equipment they need .
A letter calling on the Government to ensure care workers have access to the correct level of PPE has been signed by MPs including Liam Byrne ( Lab Hodge Hill ) .
The Department of Health and Social Care has said there have been reports of Covid-19 in 2,099 care homes in England .
The death toll continued to rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total of 12,868 patients have died in hospital after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 5pm on Tuesday , up by 761 from 12,107 the day before .
The Government has confirmed 19 deaths amongst those working for the health service since the outbreak began .
The PA news agency says it estimates that announcements from NHS trusts and tributes from loved ones indicate the true number is higher .
In some good news , a 106-year-old woman , thought to be Britain ’ s oldest patient to recover from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s City Hospital .
Police have issued more than 3,203 fines A total of 3,203 fines for alleged breaches of coronavirus lockdown laws were issued by police forces in England between March 27 and April 13 , the National Police Chiefs ’ Council said .
The fines issued by Midlands forces are : Labour want the Government to reveal how the lockdown will end Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called for ministers to publish their lockdown exit strategy , saying people need to see “ light at the end of the tunnel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raab , who is deputising for Prime Minister Boris Johnson , Sir Keir said Labour will support the Government if , as expected , it keeps the current measures in place .
But he said : “ The question for Thursday therefore is no longer about whether the lockdown should be extended , but about what the Government ’ s position is on how and when it can be eased in due course and on what criteria that decision will be taken .
”

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Health Secretary Matt Hancock attempted to head off claims that the Government has failed care home workers by announcing plans to step up testing, and provide them with protective equipment including gloves and masks.
It follows claims that care homes have been left to fend for themselves.
In Birmingham, 24 separate homes have reported cases of covid-19 coronavirus among residents and staff and at one care home in Erdington four residents have died.
Mr Hancock said health and care workers were saving lives.. He said: "From the moment of the emergence of coronavirus, we've known that some of the most vulnerable to this disease are in social care."
He added: "Our goal throughout has been to protect residents to support our 1.5 million colleagues who work in social care."
He set out proposals to help social care workers including:
i) Ensuring that all care home residnts who are discharged from hospital are testedbefore being admitted into their care home; testing all care home reisents who show symptoms of coronavirus, and testing everyone working in social care, and members of their households, who need a test.
ii) A new online delivery system to get PPE protective equipment to social care providers, delivered directly via the royal mail.
iii) A single brand for social care to symboline the entire care profession. This is the word "Care" in white letters on a green backhground. The Government is asking the public and businesses to recognise the work of Care workers in a similar way to NHS workers - for example, with supermarkets offering them the same special access as they currently offer to NHS staff.
Mr Hancock also indicated the lockdown will not end soon, although the Government is to announce its official decision tomorrow.
He said: "This shared sacrficie is starting to work ...but we will not lift these measures until it is safe to do so."
Earlier, the Government faced a backlash over its handling of the growing crisis.
Professor Martin Green, chief executive of Care England, which represents independent social care services, said there have been thousands of cases and deaths in care homes, while HC-One, Britain’s biggest care home operator, said two-thirds of its homes are affected and it has seen more than 300 deaths.
But many care homes say they are not receiving the protective equipment they need.
A letter calling on the Government to ensure care workers have access to the correct level of PPE has been signed by MPs including Liam Byrne (Lab Hodge Hill).
The Department of Health and Social Care has said there have been reports of Covid-19 in 2,099 care homes in England.
Hospital death toll reaches 12,868 people
The death toll continued to rise as the Department of Health said a total of 12,868 patients have died in hospital after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 5pm on Tuesday, up by 761 from 12,107 the day before.
The Government has confirmed 19 deaths amongst those working for the health service since the outbreak began. The PA news agency says it estimates that announcements from NHS trusts and tributes from loved ones indicate the true number is higher.
In some good news, a 106-year-old woman, thought to be Britain’s oldest patient to recover from coronavirus, has been discharged from Birmingham’s City Hospital.
Police have issued more than 3,203 fines
A total of 3,203 fines for alleged breaches of coronavirus lockdown laws were issued by police forces in England between March 27 and April 13, the National Police Chiefs’ Council said.
West Midlands Police have issued 139 fines to people breaking coronavirus lockdown laws.
The fines issued by Midlands forces are:
.– Staffordshire: 4
– Warwickshire: 5
– West Mercia: 30
– West Midlands: 139
Labour want the Government to reveal how the lockdown will end
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called for ministers to publish their lockdown exit strategy, saying people need to see “light at the end of the tunnel”.
In a letter to Dominic Raab, who is deputising for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Sir Keir said Labour will support the Government if, as expected, it keeps the current measures in place.
But he said: “The question for Thursday therefore is no longer about whether the lockdown should be extended, but about what the Government’s position is on how and when it can be eased in due course and on what criteria that decision will be taken.”


birminghammail--2020-04-15--275 ways you can reduce spread of coronavirus after lockdown lifted

Researchers said they have identified 275 ways to reduce the spread of coronavirus once lockdown measures are lifted .
Phased reopening of schools , businesses and open spaces should be considered alongside a range of practical ways to keep people physically apart , a new study suggests .
The research did not consider medical possibilities when compiling the 275 measures .
The study does not offer recommendations but the scientists said a shortlist of the most appropriate options for specific regions and contexts should be considered in terms of their likely effectiveness , cost , practicality and fairness .
Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cambridge 's department of zoology , who led the study , said : `` There 's increasing pressure to reopen the economy and get people back to work and out of isolation .
`` But if we return to operating as we did before the pandemic , there will be a second wave of the virus .
`` All activities will need to be considered individually , and phased back in carefully , depending on the risk they pose to spreading the virus . ''
While strict lockdown measures are proving to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in many countries , they are putting a strain on the population 's mental and physical health , and on the economy .
A vaccine is unlikely to be available for at least 12 months .
Measures such as physical distancing , enhancing personal hygiene and reducing contamination are likely to remain central elements of all control strategies for some time , the researchers said .
The study , which has not been peer reviewed , lists the range of practical options available to achieve these measures .
This includes cafe owners opening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wiping down tables - spaced well apart - after each customer .
According to the study , access to public parks could be restricted to different age groups at different times of day , with gates left open so they do not need to be touched , and users asked to walk on the right side of the pavement or clockwise around large open spaces .
Other suggestions include patients with doctors ' appointments being asked to wait in their car outside the surgery until called in .
School classes could be split @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who only go into school one week in every three .
Prof Sutherland said : `` It 's basically about how to stop people hanging around together , and phasing in activities starting with the ones that are the safest .
`` Making this happen will be up to the people responsible for every element of society . ''
Identifying , assessing and applying a wide range of options could enable some of the stricter lockdown conditions to be lifted earlier , and make the transition period shorter , said the researchers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Researchers said they have identified 275 ways to reduce the spread of coronavirus once lockdown measures are lifted.
Phased reopening of schools, businesses and open spaces should be considered alongside a range of practical ways to keep people physically apart, a new study suggests.
The research did not consider medical possibilities when compiling the 275 measures.
The study does not offer recommendations but the scientists said a shortlist of the most appropriate options for specific regions and contexts should be considered in terms of their likely effectiveness, cost, practicality and fairness.
Professor William Sutherland, from the University of Cambridge's department of zoology, who led the study, said: "There's increasing pressure to reopen the economy and get people back to work and out of isolation.
"But if we return to operating as we did before the pandemic, there will be a second wave of the virus.
"All activities will need to be considered individually, and phased back in carefully, depending on the risk they pose to spreading the virus."
While strict lockdown measures are proving to be effective in controlling the spread of Covid-19 in many countries, they are putting a strain on the population's mental and physical health, and on the economy.
A vaccine is unlikely to be available for at least 12 months.
Measures such as physical distancing, enhancing personal hygiene and reducing contamination are likely to remain central elements of all control strategies for some time, the researchers said.
The study, which has not been peer reviewed, lists the range of practical options available to achieve these measures.
This includes cafe owners opening outdoor areas only at first, and wiping down tables - spaced well apart - after each customer.
According to the study, access to public parks could be restricted to different age groups at different times of day, with gates left open so they do not need to be touched, and users asked to walk on the right side of the pavement or clockwise around large open spaces.
Other suggestions include patients with doctors' appointments being asked to wait in their car outside the surgery until called in.
School classes could be split into smaller groups with dedicated teachers, who only go into school one week in every three.
Prof Sutherland said: "It's basically about how to stop people hanging around together, and phasing in activities starting with the ones that are the safest.
"Making this happen will be up to the people responsible for every element of society."
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Identifying, assessing and applying a wide range of options could enable some of the stricter lockdown conditions to be lifted earlier, and make the transition period shorter, said the researchers.
A full list is available at covid-19.biorisc.com.


birminghammail--2020-04-15--Cemetery closure rules eased amid 'no sunbathing' warning

Walsall 's tough cemetery restrictions have been tweaked to allow people to visit their loved one 's graveside .
Cemeteries across the borough were closed last week - except for funerals and burials - to minimise the potential spread of Covid-19 after people were spotted sunbathing and using them for recreational purposes .
But Walsall Council has now announced it will ease up the rules and open the gates of all borough cemeteries between 8am and 10am for a two-week period .
The pilot will run from Thursday , April 16 to Thursday , April 30 - and could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidelines .
During this time , access for funerals and cremations will continue to be via vehicle gates only , with a maximum of ten mourners .
Coun Mike Bird , leader of Walsall Council , said : “ Since having to make the decision to close cemeteries I asked officers to work to identify a possible solution so those that routinely visit for legitimate purposes would be able to continue to do so .
`` The closure was necessary given the completely inappropriate behaviour of many visitors to cemeteries at the time.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has only been for a short period of time , having identified this pilot to provide access again quite quickly . ''
He continued : `` I must stress the continuation of the pilot is solely dependent on how people behaviour when visiting cemeteries as we have a duty to continue to do all we can to ensure government guidance regarding social distancing is adhered to prevent the spread of coronavirus as much as possible .
`` I urge all visitors to cemeteries , or any open public spaces , to act responsibly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take all possible steps to maintain social distancing when out .
`` Coronavirus is indiscriminate in how it spreads so we must all do all we can as individuals to behave in a way that stops the spread of this virus .
”

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Walsall's tough cemetery restrictions have been tweaked to allow people to visit their loved one's graveside.
Cemeteries across the borough were closed last week - except for funerals and burials - to minimise the potential spread of Covid-19 after people were spotted sunbathing and using them for recreational purposes.
But Walsall Council has now announced it will ease up the rules and open the gates of all borough cemeteries between 8am and 10am for a two-week period.
The pilot will run from Thursday, April 16 to Thursday, April 30 - and could be extended if people abide by social distancing guidelines.
During this time, access for funerals and cremations will continue to be via vehicle gates only, with a maximum of ten mourners.
Coun Mike Bird, leader of Walsall Council, said: “Since having to make the decision to close cemeteries I asked officers to work to identify a possible solution so those that routinely visit for legitimate purposes would be able to continue to do so.
"The closure was necessary given the completely inappropriate behaviour of many visitors to cemeteries at the time.
" I am pleased that the closure has only been for a short period of time, having identified this pilot to provide access again quite quickly."
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He continued: "I must stress the continuation of the pilot is solely dependent on how people behaviour when visiting cemeteries as we have a duty to continue to do all we can to ensure government guidance regarding social distancing is adhered to prevent the spread of coronavirus as much as possible.
"I urge all visitors to cemeteries, or any open public spaces, to act responsibly, adhere to operational opening times and take all possible steps to maintain social distancing when out.
"Coronavirus is indiscriminate in how it spreads so we must all do all we can as individuals to behave in a way that stops the spread of this virus.”


birminghammail--2020-04-15--Five lessons we learned from Tyrone Mings' tell-all interviews

Tyrone Mings took to the TV screen today to discuss his life in quarantine with Sky Sports .
On The Football Show , Aston Villa defender Mings discussed lockdown , wealth and footballs path forward as well as his story , and there was a lot to take from that .
It was his latest round of media duties after popping onto the talkSPORT breakfast show with new host Laura Woods on Tuesday morning .
Mings is a well-spoken player , but it is very clear that there are no airs and graces around his 'persona ' - it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has lived - and the path that has created a socially responsible footballer .
When he speaks , it comes from a crunching reality .
It was n't easy for him to break into the game , but at the same time he understands the privilege that now comes with his position at the top of the footballing ladder .
Here are five key lessons that Mings ' interviews on Sky Sports and talkSPORT taught us .
1 ) That there 's a time , a place and a correct way to judge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health secretary Matt Hancock 's comments the other week .
Hancock responded to a loaded question in a heavy-handed manner to ask footballers to consider their wealth .
The Villa man believes that this is n't a time for finger pointing , and that there is far more wealth to be considered when it comes to 'who is playing their part . '
“ I do n't think there was ever any doubt that players understand their role and their implications on fans .
So , it was always important for us to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and there will be a lot of people that do things individually as well as the initiative .
“ I think obviously footballers came in for a bit of criticism but that 's not necessarily something that concerns me .
I just think in the middle of a crisis is not necessarily a time to be finger pointing at footballers .
“ What about other rich people , or wealthy people , or well-off people exploiting tax loopholes ?
” “ I will say now is not a good time to be pointing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as you can look yourself in the mirror when you come out of this and know that you do your part and you played your part , the world and society will be a better place for it.
” When it comes to the 'Mings method ' , it 's clear that we should n't be looking at neighbours enviously - but we should be checking in with those who are vulnerable , and not judging whether some have too much , but whether - right now - fellow citizens have enough to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Certainly , that is n't without ignoring that those with vast wealth can be held to account , but rather to say that finger pointing to make a soundbite is n't going to tangibly help a single soul .
2 ) That he is a 'key ' player Mings disclosed that he is the music man , using all that spare time in lockdown to take up an instrument .
He 's available for weddings apparently .
`` I 've only just learned a few chords .
It 's really not that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ song so if anybody 's planning a wedding after all this I can play the song you walk down the aisle too ! ''
3 ) That he has perspective Mings would n't be the man or player that he is today without travelling his path from dropping out of an academy , to non-league football , to a 'real ' job , and back into the professional game .
That real-life experience , as well as his upbringing , has given the player a sense of community responsibility , and the social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He knows that this is not just a game , and that he is now in a position of power and privilege .
A platform that he intends to use to not only his benefit - but for those who are outside of the game as well .
He intends to give back .
It 's been a long way to the top for Mings , and it 's been a bumpy road as well , but he 'd have it no other way .
`` I ’ m lucky enough to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fan , and as a football player , '' said Mings .
`` I feel that I can put myself in a football fans shoes .
I ’ ve been there and seen it from the outside and wondered what it would be like inside the social football bubble .
It is a lot different , and I would ’ ve hated to come through an academy and not be able to see what the real world really looks like . ''
`` That ’ s massively important .
Not only does it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it makes you a well-rounded person .
To be able to relate to different peoples situations , also means that when you talk it should be more believable or relatable .
I ’ m not talking from a script or talking from media training , I ’ m talking because I feel what people who don ’ t have a voice are feeling .
“ I feel fortunate to have walked the path that I have and I feel fortunate to be in a situation that I am and now I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for and that I can give back for , I feel fortunate for that.
” 4 ) That he knows his role , and that of the sport Combining the above two sections , Mings could 've hit out aggressively at a number of critics - but chose to seek a positive route .
As a footballer , Mings ' words - like those of Gary Neville - will be taken with a pinch of salt , and he knows that .
He knows the path that he has travelled , and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different light .
What he also knows , is that he has the ability to do great things , ignore the noise and help push for a better society - as well as play his part in public entertainment via the sport .
He could 've also pushed his point on the season conclusion as debates rage over whether it should continue or be voided - but he did n't .
He chose the smarter option of tangling with how the season can finish in the safest manner , than picking the option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most .
“ I don ’ t feel strongly enough to try and drive my motive .
In a perfect situation I would love to play in front of fans , there are different challenges that come with playing behind closed doors , challenges that we didn ’ t face in the first two thirds of the season .
`` I think it will be difficult , absolutely , but I would like to conclude the season and conclude it in front of fans because they are a massive part of the sport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can ’ t .
If we can ’ t get to that solution , we need to conclude it safely .
“ I hope there ’ s not too much of a long term impact .
Some people see faults , some see it as entertainment .
Quarantine would be easier for some if there was football on to watch at the moment .
“ So , I think when we come back to it .
I hope from a player , and from a football fans point of view , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think we 'll also come back to an industry that 's a little tighter knit .
When you go through periods like this , people can come out of it with a lot of credit if they act in the right way and do the right things and I think every footballer and the majority of everybody involved in football has a moral conscience and we also feel very privileged that we 're in a position that we are out there as role models .
“ So , I think we 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to look themselves in the mirror and say I played my part and I contributed to making a difference in society .
Mings candidly admitted that every day 's a school day for the Villa players now they are mixing it with the big boys in the Prem .
`` This season 's been a big learning curve , '' he added .
`` It 's my first season playing week in week out in the Premier League and it 's been an opportunity to learn on the job .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no bones about that .
The whole team has found this season tough , but we 've got a lot of inexperienced players in the team and I 'd even class myself in that category .
`` On the whole it 's been a good season for learning , but we still want to play the season and we want to prove that we can play in this league and show that we 're not quite at our maximum yet and we 've still got more to give . ''
This season has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and his claret and blue colleagues , they would n't be in the relegation places and with the division 's worst defensive record had it been a simple step up .
But Mings has proved already that he can adapt quickly , having also revealed he only started learning to play centre-half just before joining Villa last January .
`` Growing up I played centre midfield , I played left back , I did n't actually play centre back until I came back from my knee injury at Bournemouth , so I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really . ''

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Tyrone Mings took to the TV screen today to discuss his life in quarantine with Sky Sports.
On The Football Show, Aston Villa defender Mings discussed lockdown, wealth and footballs path forward as well as his story, and there was a lot to take from that.
It was his latest round of media duties after popping onto the talkSPORT breakfast show with new host Laura Woods on Tuesday morning.
Mings is a well-spoken player, but it is very clear that there are no airs and graces around his 'persona' - it is one constructed from the reality that he has lived - and the path that has created a socially responsible footballer.
When he speaks, it comes from a crunching reality. It wasn't easy for him to break into the game, but at the same time he understands the privilege that now comes with his position at the top of the footballing ladder.
Here are five key lessons that Mings' interviews on Sky Sports and talkSPORT taught us.
1) That there's a time, a place and a correct way to judge others
Mings was possibly hit hard by health secretary Matt Hancock's comments the other week. Hancock responded to a loaded question in a heavy-handed manner to ask footballers to consider their wealth.
The Villa man believes that this isn't a time for finger pointing, and that there is far more wealth to be considered when it comes to 'who is playing their part.'
“I don't think there was ever any doubt that players understand their role and their implications on fans. So, it was always important for us to do something, whether it be individually and there will be a lot of people that do things individually as well as the initiative.
“I think obviously footballers came in for a bit of criticism but that's not necessarily something that concerns me. I just think in the middle of a crisis is not necessarily a time to be finger pointing at footballers.
“What about other rich people, or wealthy people, or well-off people exploiting tax loopholes?”
“I will say now is not a good time to be pointing the finger at anybody. As long as you can look yourself in the mirror when you come out of this and know that you do your part and you played your part, the world and society will be a better place for it.”
When it comes to the 'Mings method', it's clear that we shouldn't be looking at neighbours enviously - but we should be checking in with those who are vulnerable, and not judging whether some have too much, but whether - right now - fellow citizens have enough to get by in a time of crisis.
Certainly, that isn't without ignoring that those with vast wealth can be held to account, but rather to say that finger pointing to make a soundbite isn't going to tangibly help a single soul.
2) That he is a 'key' player
Mings disclosed that he is the music man, using all that spare time in lockdown to take up an instrument. He's available for weddings apparently.
"I've only just learned a few chords. It's really not that impressive. I can play a bridal song so if anybody's planning a wedding after all this I can play the song you walk down the aisle too!"
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
3) That he has perspective
Mings wouldn't be the man or player that he is today without travelling his path from dropping out of an academy, to non-league football, to a 'real' job, and back into the professional game.
That real-life experience, as well as his upbringing, has given the player a sense of community responsibility, and the social side of football resonates inside him.
He knows that this is not just a game, and that he is now in a position of power and privilege. A platform that he intends to use to not only his benefit - but for those who are outside of the game as well. He intends to give back.
(Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
It's been a long way to the top for Mings, and it's been a bumpy road as well, but he'd have it no other way.
"I’m lucky enough to be able to see football as a football fan, and as a football player," said Mings.
"I feel that I can put myself in a football fans shoes. I’ve been there and seen it from the outside and wondered what it would be like inside the social football bubble. It is a lot different, and I would’ve hated to come through an academy and not be able to see what the real world really looks like."
"That’s massively important. Not only does it make you a more rounded footballer, but it makes you a well-rounded person. To be able to relate to different peoples situations, also means that when you talk it should be more believable or relatable. I’m not talking from a script or talking from media training, I’m talking because I feel what people who don’t have a voice are feeling.
“I feel fortunate to have walked the path that I have and I feel fortunate to be in a situation that I am and now I have a platform that I can do good for and that I can give back for, I feel fortunate for that.”
4) That he knows his role, and that of the sport
Combining the above two sections, Mings could've hit out aggressively at a number of critics - but chose to seek a positive route.
As a footballer, Mings' words - like those of Gary Neville - will be taken with a pinch of salt, and he knows that. He knows the path that he has travelled, and that others may now view him in a different light.
What he also knows, is that he has the ability to do great things, ignore the noise and help push for a better society - as well as play his part in public entertainment via the sport.
He could've also pushed his point on the season conclusion as debates rage over whether it should continue or be voided - but he didn't.
He chose the smarter option of tangling with how the season can finish in the safest manner, than picking the option that may benefit him and Villa the most.
“I don’t feel strongly enough to try and drive my motive. In a perfect situation I would love to play in front of fans, there are different challenges that come with playing behind closed doors, challenges that we didn’t face in the first two thirds of the season.
"I think it will be difficult, absolutely, but I would like to conclude the season and conclude it in front of fans because they are a massive part of the sport.
“It would be strange if we can’t. If we can’t get to that solution, we need to conclude it safely.
“I hope there’s not too much of a long term impact. Some people see faults, some see it as entertainment. Quarantine would be easier for some if there was football on to watch at the moment.
“So, I think when we come back to it. I hope from a player, and from a football fans point of view, it doesn't look too different.
“I think we'll also come back to an industry that's a little tighter knit. When you go through periods like this, people can come out of it with a lot of credit if they act in the right way and do the right things and I think every footballer and the majority of everybody involved in football has a moral conscience and we also feel very privileged that we're in a position that we are out there as role models.
“So, I think we'll come out of it and everybody should be able to look themselves in the mirror and say I played my part and I contributed to making a difference in society.
Claret & Blue podcast Have you tried our Claret & Blue podcast out? Claret & Blue is our expanded look at everything Aston Villa - and you can find it on iTunes, Spotify, and YouTube, as well as your podcast service of choice. Our writers will bring you the latest from Villa Park in their own unique style, taking a deeper look at the Villans while having a lot of fun along the way. What can you expect? Well,analysis, news, interviews and debate along with, yes, a fair amount of nonsense! That's not all though, you can find the podcast on Twitter here, and as a newsletter which you can subscribe to here. In our newsletter you'll get original articles like this and exclusive interviews before anyone else has access. What are you waiting for?
5) That he's a quick learner
Mings candidly admitted that every day's a school day for the Villa players now they are mixing it with the big boys in the Prem.
"This season's been a big learning curve," he added. "It's my first season playing week in week out in the Premier League and it's been an opportunity to learn on the job.
"It's been tough, I make no bones about that. The whole team has found this season tough, but we've got a lot of inexperienced players in the team and I'd even class myself in that category.
"On the whole it's been a good season for learning, but we still want to play the season and we want to prove that we can play in this league and show that we're not quite at our maximum yet and we've still got more to give."
This season has not been without its challenges for Mings and his claret and blue colleagues, they wouldn't be in the relegation places and with the division's worst defensive record had it been a simple step up.
But Mings has proved already that he can adapt quickly, having also revealed he only started learning to play centre-half just before joining Villa last January.
"Growing up I played centre midfield, I played left back, I didn't actually play centre back until I came back from my knee injury at Bournemouth, so I've only been playing there a few years really."


birminghammail--2020-04-15--Bus passenger punched in 'row about coughing'

Police issued a picture of a woman after a bus passenger was repeatedly punched in the face in a `` row about coughing '' .
West Midlands Police said a passenger on an X4 bus was punched `` multiple times '' , which left him with an injury to his nose .
Officers released an image from CCTV of a woman who may have information about the assault , which happened at 6.45pm on April 7 .
Making an appeal on Twitter , Safer Travel Police wrote : `` We want to speak to her following an assault on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man was punched in the face multiple times , which left him with an injury to his nose .
`` It is believed the assault happened following a dispute about coughing on the bus , which was travelling down Sutton New Road in # Erdington at 6.45pm on 7 April . ''
Police said if you know who she is to contact them via Live Chat at http : //west-midlands.pnn.police.uk or call 101 .
Crime ref : 20BE/85100D/20 .
The latest attack follows a separate incident after two women were jailed for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got off a bus in Bull Street in Birmingham city centre .
The 20-year-old victim `` fell like a stone '' when she was fly-kicked by one attacker and had to be put into an induced coma for two weeks with a catastrophic brain injury .
And a 15-year-old schoolgirl was arrested after a video showing a young girl being attacked on a bus in Birmingham in December went viral .

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Police issued a picture of a woman after a bus passenger was repeatedly punched in the face in a "row about coughing".
West Midlands Police said a passenger on an X4 bus was punched "multiple times", which left him with an injury to his nose.
Officers released an image from CCTV of a woman who may have information about the assault, which happened at 6.45pm on April 7.
(Image: WMP)
Making an appeal on Twitter, Safer Travel Police wrote: "We want to speak to her following an assault on a passenger on the X4 bus where a man was punched in the face multiple times, which left him with an injury to his nose.
"It is believed the assault happened following a dispute about coughing on the bus, which was travelling down Sutton New Road in #Erdington at 6.45pm on 7 April."
Police said if you know who she is to contact them via Live Chat at http://west-midlands.pnn.police.uk or call 101. Crime ref: 20BE/85100D/20.
The latest attack follows a separate incident after two women were jailed for a horror attack on another woman after she got off a bus in Bull Street in Birmingham city centre.
The 20-year-old victim "fell like a stone" when she was fly-kicked by one attacker and had to be put into an induced coma for two weeks with a catastrophic brain injury.
And a 15-year-old schoolgirl was arrested after a video showing a young girl being attacked on a bus in Birmingham in December went viral.


birminghammail--2020-04-15--Oasis and Warehouse officially collapse into administration

High-street fashion chains Oasis and Warehouse have collapsed into administration , affecting 2,000 workers across 92 branches and 437 concessions .
Oasis and Warehouse , which run 90 stores across the country , as been looking for a saviour for weeks , according to reports .
It is owned by Kaupthing , the failed Icelandic bank .
Administrators for the bank tried to launch a sales process over three years ago , but this was later abandoned .
The coronavirus pandemic is eating into British high street businesses , which were already feeling the pinch before the outbreak started .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ second time in a year in a bid to protect itself during the shutdown .
The company ’ s 142 stores were already closed and most of the 22,000 members of staff on furlough before the owners pushed the business into administration .
The company said at the time : “ This move will protect Debenhams from the threat of legal action that could have the effect of pushing the business into liquidation while its 142 UK stores remain closed in line with the Government ’ s current advice regarding the Covid-19 pandemic.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Flybe to close its doors , and Carluccio ’ s and BrightHouse have also collapsed .
Other businesses are hoping to be able to re-open their doors when the lockdown is lifted .
Britons have been told to remain at home , and only to go out to buy essential food and medical supplies , or for one piece of daily exercise .
All non-essential stores have been forced to close , with the government promising to support businesses by picking up parts of their payroll , and backing loans .

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High-street fashion chains Oasis and Warehouse have collapsed into administration, affecting 2,000 workers across 92 branches and 437 concessions.
Oasis and Warehouse, which run 90 stores across the country, as been looking for a saviour for weeks, according to reports.
It is owned by Kaupthing, the failed Icelandic bank.
Administrators for the bank tried to launch a sales process over three years ago, but this was later abandoned.
The coronavirus pandemic is eating into British high street businesses, which were already feeling the pinch before the outbreak started.
Debenhams last week entered administration for the second time in a year in a bid to protect itself during the shutdown.
The company’s 142 stores were already closed and most of the 22,000 members of staff on furlough before the owners pushed the business into administration.
The company said at the time: “This move will protect Debenhams from the threat of legal action that could have the effect of pushing the business into liquidation while its 142 UK stores remain closed in line with the Government’s current advice regarding the Covid-19 pandemic.”
The coronavirus crisis has also forced Flybe to close its doors, and Carluccio’s and BrightHouse have also collapsed.
Other businesses are hoping to be able to re-open their doors when the lockdown is lifted.
Britons have been told to remain at home, and only to go out to buy essential food and medical supplies, or for one piece of daily exercise.
All non-essential stores have been forced to close, with the government promising to support businesses by picking up parts of their payroll, and backing loans.


birminghammail--2020-04-16--Diamond day for Tamworth couple

Diamond day for Tamworth couple

Maurice and Edith Price will be marking the occasion with a special home-cooked meal using the traditional English cookbook that they received as a wedding present back on April 16 , 1960 .
The couple met as teenagers living in Walsall and were married in St Matthew ’ s Church , before honeymooning in Ilfracombe .
They had planned to mark their special anniversary with their two children Richard and Alison and their four grandchildren but , due to the coronavirus lockdown , they will be tucking into a quiet homemade dinner for two at home instead .
Now in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lived through many interesting times .
Edith was born in 1939 and was to be christened on September 3 , which turned out to be the day Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain announced that the country was at war with Germany .
Her Godfather had to leave the ceremony early as he ’ d already been called to go and join the war effort filling sandbags !
During their courtship , both Maurice and Edith actively participated in competitive sports .
Maurice , a racing cyclist , often went on training exercises as far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to meet Edith from her swimming training session at the baths in Walsall .
Before retirement Edith worked in the healthcare profession , as district nurse – becoming the ‘ poster girl ’ for district nurses in magazine features early in her career – and later as a health visitor .
She established connections with the traveller community advocating for and providing health care services to them in the 1970s .
She was presented with a beautiful hand-crafted model gypsy caravan by one of her patients and a ‘ best fairground stall prize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a chartered electrical engineer and Fellow of the Institute of Electrical & Electronic Engineers .
He pioneered much of the development of the energy-efficient “ combined heat & power ” concept in the UK and led consulting teams in Soviet-era Eastern Europe , the Middle East and Africa .
He witnessed riots in both Gdansk in Poland and in Khartoum , Sudan , where he had to rapidly learn some advanced driving techniques when rocks begin raining down on the bonnet and roof of his Land Rover !
Maurice took Edith with him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he was due to deliver a lecture in Beijing .
They then found themselves amongst the few Westerners placed under armed guard in their hotel during the political protests in Tiananmen Square .
In the communication blackout that followed , their family knew nothing of their condition or whereabouts until they finally popped up again in Hong Kong several days later .
They were not short of excitement after retirement either as they were stranded abroad again in 2010 , this time in Dubai whilst celebrating their golden wedding anniversary .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aircraft in much of the Northern hemisphere .
They were therefore unable to return home for several days .
For Maurice ’ s 70th birthday Edith bought him some lessons on the pipe organ at Lichfield Cathedral – to build on his enthusiasm for playing the piano .
This rapidly became a passion for him and he took to the keyboards at local church , St Leonard ’ s in Wigginton and St Editha ’ s in Tamworth , as well supporting church services in a number of other regional churches .
Edith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the community , volunteering in the British Heart Foundation shop , making packages for the women ’ s refuge and providing sanitary products for homeless women .
She has also applied her talents in flower arranging by dressing the church for weddings and lending out her prized 1930s Austin Lichfield car for weddings .
Edith and Maurice have always loved travelling , becoming keen sailors when their children had grown up .
Maurice trained to become a Skipper and Edith qualified as ‘ competent crew ’ .
These skills were used regularly in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Wigginton couple are celebrating a sparkling milestone - their diamond wedding anniversary!
Maurice and Edith Price will be marking the occasion with a special home-cooked meal using the traditional English cookbook that they received as a wedding present back on April 16, 1960.
The couple met as teenagers living in Walsall and were married in St Matthew’s Church, before honeymooning in Ilfracombe.
They had planned to mark their special anniversary with their two children Richard and Alison and their four grandchildren but, due to the coronavirus lockdown, they will be tucking into a quiet homemade dinner for two at home instead.
Now in their 80s, the couple have already lived through many interesting times. Edith was born in 1939 and was to be christened on September 3, which turned out to be the day Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain announced that the country was at war with Germany. Her Godfather had to leave the ceremony early as he’d already been called to go and join the war effort filling sandbags!
During their courtship, both Maurice and Edith actively participated in competitive sports. Maurice, a racing cyclist, often went on training exercises as far as North Wales and returned in time to meet Edith from her swimming training session at the baths in Walsall.
Before retirement Edith worked in the healthcare profession, as district nurse – becoming the ‘poster girl’ for district nurses in magazine features early in her career – and later as a health visitor. She established connections with the traveller community advocating for and providing health care services to them in the 1970s.
She was presented with a beautiful hand-crafted model gypsy caravan by one of her patients and a ‘best fairground stall prize’ swan rose bowl.
Maurice is a chartered electrical engineer and Fellow of the Institute of Electrical & Electronic Engineers. He pioneered much of the development of the energy-efficient “combined heat & power” concept in the UK and led consulting teams in Soviet-era Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He witnessed riots in both Gdansk in Poland and in Khartoum, Sudan, where he had to rapidly learn some advanced driving techniques when rocks begin raining down on the bonnet and roof of his Land Rover!
Maurice took Edith with him on a trip to China in 1989 as he was due to deliver a lecture in Beijing. They then found themselves amongst the few Westerners placed under armed guard in their hotel during the political protests in Tiananmen Square. In the communication blackout that followed, their family knew nothing of their condition or whereabouts until they finally popped up again in Hong Kong several days later.
They were not short of excitement after retirement either as they were stranded abroad again in 2010, this time in Dubai whilst celebrating their golden wedding anniversary. The Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in Iceland and grounded aircraft in much of the Northern hemisphere. They were therefore unable to return home for several days.
For Maurice’s 70th birthday Edith bought him some lessons on the pipe organ at Lichfield Cathedral – to build on his enthusiasm for playing the piano. This rapidly became a passion for him and he took to the keyboards at local church, St Leonard’s in Wigginton and St Editha’s in Tamworth, as well supporting church services in a number of other regional churches.
Edith has also spent much of retirement supporting the community, volunteering in the British Heart Foundation shop, making packages for the women’s refuge and providing sanitary products for homeless women. She has also applied her talents in flower arranging by dressing the church for weddings and lending out her prized 1930s Austin Lichfield car for weddings.
Edith and Maurice have always loved travelling, becoming keen sailors when their children had grown up. Maurice trained to become a Skipper and Edith qualified as ‘competent crew’. These skills were used regularly in sailing holidays including several excursions to Croatia.


birminghammail--2020-04-16--The drastic precedent that will terrify Aston Villa

Scotland ’ s professional football governing body has taken the decision to cancel the season and reward teams based on their current league position .
The SPFL has announced that the Scottish Championship , League One and League Two have now reached a conclusion and teams have been awarded promotion as a result .
The future of the teams in the relegation places has n't yet been announced , although a possible league restructuring for 2020/21 has been mooted .
Partick Thistle are currently in the exact same position that Aston Villa would find themselves in if the Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thistle sit bottom of the Championship - but if they were to win their game in hand they would climb above Queen of the South and to safety .
Villa are 19th but also have a game in hand on their immediate rivals .
The Premier League hopes to conclude the 2019/20 campaign , even if games have to be played behind closed doors , but Thistle ’ s predicament is one that will worry the likes of Villa , Norwich City and Bournemouth who occupy the relegation places currently .
SPFL chairman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turmoil and uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 outbreak , there was always going to be a highly-charged and passionate debate about how we secure the future of Scottish football .
“ It is no exaggeration to say that this was an existential matter for Scottish clubs , with many of them telling us they were at real risk of going under unless the situation was resolved very quickly , so I ’ m pleased that the game has moved decisively .
“ Whilst more than 80 % of clubs agreed with the directors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear that others were strongly opposed .
There has been talk of voiding the season , making emergency loans and so on , but what has been agreed today is not just the best way forward , it was the only realistic way forward and I now call on all 42 clubs to move forward in a constructive and positive way.
” In their latest briefing , the Premier League said : “ The restart date is under constant review with all stakeholders , as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic develops and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
“ The Premier League is working closely with the whole of professional football in this country , as well as with the Government , public agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the game achieves a collaborative solution .
“ With this , there is a combined objective for all remaining domestic league and cup matches to be played , enabling us to maintain the integrity of each competition .
“ However , any return to play will only be with the full support of the Government and when medical guidance @ @ @

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Scotland’s professional football governing body has taken the decision to cancel the season and reward teams based on their current league position.
The SPFL has announced that the Scottish Championship, League One and League Two have now reached a conclusion and teams have been awarded promotion as a result.
The future of the teams in the relegation places hasn't yet been announced, although a possible league restructuring for 2020/21 has been mooted.
Partick Thistle are currently in the exact same position that Aston Villa would find themselves in if the Premier League was to impose a similar ruling.
Thistle sit bottom of the Championship - but if they were to win their game in hand they would climb above Queen of the South and to safety. Villa are 19th but also have a game in hand on their immediate rivals.
The Premier League hopes to conclude the 2019/20 campaign, even if games have to be played behind closed doors, but Thistle’s predicament is one that will worry the likes of Villa, Norwich City and Bournemouth who occupy the relegation places currently.
SPFL chairman Murdoch MacLennan said: “With the turmoil and uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 outbreak, there was always going to be a highly-charged and passionate debate about how we secure the future of Scottish football.
“It is no exaggeration to say that this was an existential matter for Scottish clubs, with many of them telling us they were at real risk of going under unless the situation was resolved very quickly, so I’m pleased that the game has moved decisively.
“Whilst more than 80% of clubs agreed with the directors’ written resolution, it’s clear that others were strongly opposed. There has been talk of voiding the season, making emergency loans and so on, but what has been agreed today is not just the best way forward, it was the only realistic way forward and I now call on all 42 clubs to move forward in a constructive and positive way.”
In their latest briefing, the Premier League said: “The restart date is under constant review with all stakeholders, as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic develops and we work together through this very challenging time.
“The Premier League is working closely with the whole of professional football in this country, as well as with the Government, public agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the game achieves a collaborative solution.
“With this, there is a combined objective for all remaining domestic league and cup matches to be played, enabling us to maintain the integrity of each competition.
“However, any return to play will only be with the full support of the Government and when medical guidance allows.”


birminghammail--2020-04-16--United continue to pursue Jack Grealish despite misconduct

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has decided to continue his pursuit of Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish , despite the player recently attending a party while meant to be under lockdown .
Manchester United have been heavily linked with a move for Grealish for the most part of this season , thanks in no small part to his impressive displays while donning the skipper ’ s armband .
Grealish has produced nine goals and served up eight assists this term as he plots to help drag Villa out of the relegation zone once the resumption of the season gets the green light @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong reasons recently , however , when he was caught ignoring governmental instructions to remain at home amid the coronavirus pandemic and was fined two weeks ’ wages by the club .
Despite that misconduct , Grealish remains on the radar of United and boss Solskjaer , reports ESPN .
The Red Devils are planning quite an overhaul in their playing staff this summer , with a number of recruits being lined up , including Grealish and Blues star Jude Bellingham .
They ’ ve also been credited with an interest in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Jadon Sancho .
Midfielder Paul Pogba coud be among the players to make for the Old Trafford exit door .
“ Football is going to get back to normality at one point , and it ’ s very important we ’ re ready when that happens , ” Solskjaer told Sky Sports earlier this month , of the club ’ s transfer plans .
“ We want to be the best at everything , and of course now is a chance to spend more time , you discuss players , discuss plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need , of course with the coaching staff we ’ ve looked at games , evaluated games , discussing on video calls like this .
“ Then , the market , who knows how the market is going to react to this ?
Who knows which clubs need to sell players ?
`` There might be just a situation there where you can exploit , and I know that we at Man United we are one of the biggest , and the biggest , financially well-off .
“ I ’ m sure we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to normality , that we can do the business that we want to.
” Grealish has a contract at Villa until at least 2023 .

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has decided to continue his pursuit of Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish, despite the player recently attending a party while meant to be under lockdown.
Manchester United have been heavily linked with a move for Grealish for the most part of this season, thanks in no small part to his impressive displays while donning the skipper’s armband.
Grealish has produced nine goals and served up eight assists this term as he plots to help drag Villa out of the relegation zone once the resumption of the season gets the green light.
He hit the headlines for the wrong reasons recently, however, when he was caught ignoring governmental instructions to remain at home amid the coronavirus pandemic and was fined two weeks’ wages by the club.
Despite that misconduct, Grealish remains on the radar of United and boss Solskjaer, reports ESPN.
The Red Devils are planning quite an overhaul in their playing staff this summer, with a number of recruits being lined up, including Grealish and Blues star Jude Bellingham.
They’ve also been credited with an interest in the likes of Erling Haaland, James Maddison and Jadon Sancho.
Midfielder Paul Pogba coud be among the players to make for the Old Trafford exit door.
“Football is going to get back to normality at one point, and it’s very important we’re ready when that happens,” Solskjaer told Sky Sports earlier this month, of the club’s transfer plans.
“We want to be the best at everything, and of course now is a chance to spend more time, you discuss players, discuss plans, we’ve evaluated what we need, of course with the coaching staff we’ve looked at games, evaluated games, discussing on video calls like this.
poll loading Would you be in favour of completing the season behind closed doors? 500+ VOTES SO FAR Yes No
“Then, the market, who knows how the market is going to react to this? Who knows which clubs need to sell players?
"There might be just a situation there where you can exploit, and I know that we at Man United we are one of the biggest, and the biggest, financially well-off.
“I’m sure we are capable, when we get back to normality, that we can do the business that we want to.”
Grealish has a contract at Villa until at least 2023.


birminghammail--2020-04-16--Dominos limits menu to just seven pizzas amid coronavirus crisis

Dominos Pizza is now offering just seven pizzas as part of its simplified menu .
The move from the fast food giant , which operates multiple branches across Birmingham , comes as the country battles the Covid-19 pandemic .
Dominos is still operating take-out and delivery services despite the ongoing unprecedented health crisis , which has seen 13,000 Brits die .
In a message to customers , a spokesperson for Domino 's said : `` Sorry if your favourite is temporarily unavailable .
We are running a simplified menu to ensure our teams in store can maintain safe working distances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sister title , reports many of the chain ’ s popular pizzas are now off the menu , along with some garlic breads , and sides including BBQ chicken wings and garlic dippers .
The option of half and half pizza has also been removed .
The seven pizzas available now available to order are : The temporary changes have been brought in to help staff maintain social distancing measures , and keep them safe .
Dominos operates multiple branches across Birmingham and the Midlands .
Other outlets to still operate despite the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with Pret A Manger also re-opening sites on Thursday .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Amy Browne, James Rodger)

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Dominos Pizza is now offering just seven pizzas as part of its simplified menu.
The move from the fast food giant, which operates multiple branches across Birmingham, comes as the country battles the Covid-19 pandemic.
Dominos is still operating take-out and delivery services despite the ongoing unprecedented health crisis, which has seen 13,000 Brits die.
In a message to customers, a spokesperson for Domino's said: "Sorry if your favourite is temporarily unavailable. We are running a simplified menu to ensure our teams in store can maintain safe working distances."
The Liverpool Echo, our sister title, reports many of the chain’s popular pizzas are now off the menu, along with some garlic breads, and sides including BBQ chicken wings and garlic dippers.
The option of half and half pizza has also been removed.
The seven pizzas available now available to order are:
Original Cheese and Tomato
Mighty Meaty
Pepperoni Passion
Texas BBQ
Vegi Supreme
Chicken Feast
Hot and Spicy
The temporary changes have been brought in to help staff maintain social distancing measures, and keep them safe.
Dominos operates multiple branches across Birmingham and the Midlands.
Other outlets to still operate despite the nationwide lockdown include KFC and Burger King, with Pret A Manger also re-opening sites on Thursday.


birminghammail--2020-04-16--West Brom star reveals who is Albion's hardman

West Bromwich Albion forward Matt Phillips has revealed who is the ‘ hardman ’ at the club .
The Baggies ’ season is currently suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak , with no clear sign of when , or indeed if , the campaign will resume .
Prior to the suspension , Albion occupied second place in the Championship table , with nine league fixtures left as they bid to secure automatic promotion to the Premier League .
The football season has now been suspended for over a month , and footballers up and down the country are using various @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fix .
Albion have taken part in a Q & A with Phillips , where they ask him 10 random questions – one of them being who is the Baggies ’ ‘ hardman ’ .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com “ I ’ ve heard First Team Coach Julian Dicks can hold his own .
Jake would be up there , I guess .
Ahmed Hegazi isn ’ t one to be crossed.
” Phillips has been a key player for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goals and providing five assists in all competitions .

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West Bromwich Albion forward Matt Phillips has revealed who is the ‘hardman’ at the club.
The Baggies ’ season is currently suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak, with no clear sign of when, or indeed if, the campaign will resume.
Prior to the suspension, Albion occupied second place in the Championship table, with nine league fixtures left as they bid to secure automatic promotion to the Premier League.
The football season has now been suspended for over a month, and footballers up and down the country are using various methods to provide supporters with their football fix.
Albion have taken part in a Q&A with Phillips, where they ask him 10 random questions – one of them being who is the Baggies’ ‘hardman’.
“Hardman? That’s a tough one,” Phillips told the club’s website.
“I’ve heard First Team Coach Julian Dicks can hold his own. Jake would be up there, I guess. Ahmed Hegazi isn’t one to be crossed.”
Phillips has been a key player for Slaven Bilic this term, scoring eight goals and providing five assists in all competitions.


birminghammail--2020-04-16--Man forced to pay £3k after car clamped in council tax bill row

A landlord forced to pay £3,000 after his car was clamped by bailiffs wasn ’ t told he could appeal a decision on unpaid council tax , a local government watchdog has found .
The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has criticised Sandwell Council for failing to inform ‘ Mr C ’ of his right for a tribunal hearing after rejecting his claims he shouldn ’ t have to pay £2,922 for a house he rented out .
The dispute over who was responsible for paying the council tax began in 2016 when the landlord said the tenants should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in shouldn ’ t have to pay for 2017 because he sold the property in April that year saying the bill should go to the new owners .
After rejecting his claims , Sandwell began legal action in June 2018 which led to bailiffs going to his home in December and clamping his car , forcing Mr C to pay the disputed bill .
Mr C later complained to the council disputing his liability and provided evidence showing when he sold the property .
Saying the council had failed to properly consider his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not have the power to decide if the landlord should pay the bill , but he added : “ Mr C says he was not made aware of his right of appeal .
“ The council has confirmed it can not provide evidence that it notified Mr C of his right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal Service .
“ On balance , I consider the council did not do so which is a significant fault or certainly failed to keep an adequate record which would also be fault.
” Sandwell has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compensation and to look at his case again .
A spokesperson said : “ The council notes and accepts the findings of the Ombudsman .
The council acknowledges that it fell short of its usual high standards of service and has taken steps to avoid a recurrence .
”

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A landlord forced to pay £3,000 after his car was clamped by bailiffs wasn’t told he could appeal a decision on unpaid council tax, a local government watchdog has found.
The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has criticised Sandwell Council for failing to inform ‘Mr C’ of his right for a tribunal hearing after rejecting his claims he shouldn’t have to pay £2,922 for a house he rented out.
The dispute over who was responsible for paying the council tax began in 2016 when the landlord said the tenants should pay the charge.
He also claimed in shouldn’t have to pay for 2017 because he sold the property in April that year saying the bill should go to the new owners.
After rejecting his claims, Sandwell began legal action in June 2018 which led to bailiffs going to his home in December and clamping his car, forcing Mr C to pay the disputed bill.
Mr C later complained to the council disputing his liability and provided evidence showing when he sold the property.
Saying the council had failed to properly consider his complaint, the independent watchdog said he did not have the power to decide if the landlord should pay the bill, but he added: “Mr C says he was not made aware of his right of appeal.
“The council has confirmed it cannot provide evidence that it notified Mr C of his right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal Service.
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“On balance, I consider the council did not do so which is a significant fault or certainly failed to keep an adequate record which would also be fault.”
Sandwell has now agreed to pay Mr C £100 compensation and to look at his case again.
A spokesperson said: “The council notes and accepts the findings of the Ombudsman. The council acknowledges that it fell short of its usual high standards of service and has taken steps to avoid a recurrence.”


birminghammail--2020-04-16--Cost of handwash, nappies, rice and pet food shot up in just one week

The online price for some high-demand items shot up in just one week , as shoppers attempted to cope with the coronavirus crisis and lockdown .
Handwash , nappies , rice and pet food were among products that rose in price .
The increase was revealed by the Office for National Statistics , which has published data showing how coronavirus has affected our lives .
The online price of pet food rose by 8.4 % from the week of 30 March to 5 April to the week of 6 April to 12 April .
Rice bought online rose by 5.8 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ puree rose by 3.5 % .
The cost of nappies rose by 3.4 % , antibacterial surface wipses rose by 3.3 % and handwash rose by 2.8 % .
The online cost of tinned beans rose by 1.1 % in one week .
The Office for National Statistics says these figures can not be compared to official inflation statistics , as they are not calculated in the same way .
However , it seems clear that prices for some goods have risen much faster than in normal circumstances .
The most recent estimate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shows the rate in February , before the lockdown began - showed it was just 1.7 % .
That means the cost of an average basket of goods bought by people in the UK rose by 1.7 % over an entire year .
The shocking increase in costs is just one way that out lives have changed .
Just over 2 in 5 adults ( 41.2 % ) said they had self-isolated ( stayed at home ) in the past seven days .
While the Government has urged us all to stay at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is only meant to be for people who have symptoms of coronavirus , live with someone else who has developed symptoms or have serious pre-existing health conditions .
However , it 's possible that the distinction between `` social distancing '' - which we are all meant to do - and `` self isolation '' has not always been clear .
Nearly all adults ( 96.8 % ) said they had avoided physical contact ( such as shaking hands ) with other people from outside their household .
More than four in ten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they were working from home .
A survey of businesses found that 21 % of employees had been furloughed , which means they are no longer working but are still officially employed , with the Government subsidising their wages .
Only firms that are currently trading were included in this survey .
Over 4 in 5 adults in Great Britain ( 84.2 % ) said they were very worried or somewhat worried about the effect that the coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) is having on their life right now .
But staying in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most common action that is helping people cope with staying at home ( 76.9 % ) .
Just over 1 in 5 adults ( 20.1 % ) said they felt lonely often , always or some of the time .
Levels of reported loneliness were lower amongst those aged 70 years and over at 11.6 % .

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The online price for some high-demand items shot up in just one week, as shoppers attempted to cope with the coronavirus crisis and lockdown.
Handwash, nappies, rice and pet food were among products that rose in price.
The increase was revealed by the Office for National Statistics, which has published data showing how coronavirus has affected our lives.
The online price of pet food rose by 8.4% from the week of 30 March to 5 April to the week of 6 April to 12 April.
Rice bought online rose by 5.8% in just one week and tomato puree rose by 3.5%. The cost of nappies rose by 3.4%, antibacterial surface wipses rose by 3.3% and handwash rose by 2.8%.
The online cost of tinned beans rose by 1.1% in one week.
The Office for National Statistics says these figures cannot be compared to official inflation statistics, as they are not calculated in the same way. However, it seems clear that prices for some goods have risen much faster than in normal circumstances.
The most recent estimate of the rate of inflation - which shows the rate in February, before the lockdown began - showed it was just 1.7%. That means the cost of an average basket of goods bought by people in the UK rose by 1.7% over an entire year.
The shocking increase in costs is just one way that out lives have changed. Just over 2 in 5 adults (41.2%) said they had self-isolated (stayed at home) in the past seven days.
While the Government has urged us all to stay at home as much as possible, self-isolation is only meant to be for people who have symptoms of coronavirus, live with someone else who has developed symptoms or have serious pre-existing health conditions. However, it's possible that the distinction between "social distancing" - which we are all meant to do - and "self isolation" has not always been clear.
Nearly all adults (96.8%) said they had avoided physical contact (such as shaking hands) with other people from outside their household.
More than four in ten adults in employment, 45.8%, said they were working from home.
A survey of businesses found that 21% of employees had been furloughed, which means they are no longer working but are still officially employed, with the Government subsidising their wages. Only firms that are currently trading were included in this survey.
Over 4 in 5 adults in Great Britain (84.2%) said they were very worried or somewhat worried about the effect that the coronavirus (COVID-19) is having on their life right now.
But staying in touch with friends and family remotely was the most common action that is helping people cope with staying at home (76.9%).
Just over 1 in 5 adults (20.1%) said they felt lonely often, always or some of the time. Levels of reported loneliness were lower amongst those aged 70 years and over at 11.6%.


birminghammail--2020-04-16--Council to pay PPE costs for care providers as part of £5m relief package

Birmingham City Council has vowed to cover the cost of PPE for care providers across the city .
As the fight against coronavirus continues , the city council has confirmed a £5million financial support package .
The focus of the funding is to support hospital discharge and to recognise the additional costs providers are racking up due to the Covid-19 crisis .
The city council will reimburse reasonable additional costs that could not have been anticipated , particularly in relation to PPE , staff sickness and agency costs .
Care homes facilitating admissions from hospitals that meet certain conditions around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ additional payment .
Councillor Paulette Hamilton , cabinet members for health and social care , said : “ We are living in unprecedented times and we know that care providers across the city are working incredibly hard in really difficult circumstances .
`` They are the people who support the most vulnerable in the city and it is only right that we support them financially .
However , it is important that we put in place the right support to address the issues given the care market in Birmingham is complex .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around 50 % of places and support for any given provider , we recognise that in this current crisis , regardless of whether services are funded by the council or others , we must ensure they are supported and remain viable.
” These measures are in addition to an inflationary fee increase of 4.5 % for home support/supported living and 3.6 % for care homes from this month as part of the city council ’ s usual fee increases , investing around £8m this year .
There are approximately 300 care homes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living providers .

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Birmingham City Council has vowed to cover the cost of PPE for care providers across the city.
As the fight against coronavirus continues, the city council has confirmed a £5million financial support package.
The focus of the funding is to support hospital discharge and to recognise the additional costs providers are racking up due to the Covid-19 crisis.
The city council will reimburse reasonable additional costs that could not have been anticipated, particularly in relation to PPE, staff sickness and agency costs.
Care homes facilitating admissions from hospitals that meet certain conditions around referral and assessment will receive a one-off additional payment.
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Councillor Paulette Hamilton, cabinet members for health and social care, said: “We are living in unprecedented times and we know that care providers across the city are working incredibly hard in really difficult circumstances.
"They are the people who support the most vulnerable in the city and it is only right that we support them financially. However, it is important that we put in place the right support to address the issues given the care market in Birmingham is complex.
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“Although as a council we only fund around 50% of places and support for any given provider, we recognise that in this current crisis, regardless of whether services are funded by the council or others, we must ensure they are supported and remain viable.”
These measures are in addition to an inflationary fee increase of 4.5% for home support/supported living and 3.6% for care homes from this month as part of the city council’s usual fee increases, investing around £8m this year.
There are approximately 300 care homes in Birmingham and 200 home support and supported living providers.


birminghammail--2020-04-16--Police hunt robbers as city post office raided during lockdown

Police are hunting masked robbers who raided a city post office and threatened a member of staff with a hammer .
The gang struck on Swarthmore Road , Northfield at 1.30pm on March 31 and escaped with a large amount of cash .
West Midlands Police say the masked men entered the post office with a hammer , threatened and pushed a member of staff before stealing money from the safe .
The group then smashed a window to a stationary Toyota before leaving in a grey Skodia Octavia .
West Midlands Police has issued a picture of the masked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are trying to trace .
Birmingham Police issued an appeal on Facebook which said : `` Do you recognise these men ?
`` We are appealing for information on a robbery at a post office on Swarthmore Road , Northfield at 1.30pm on Tuesday 31 March .
`` Three masked men entered the post office with a hammer , threatened and pushed a member of staff before stealing a large quantity of cash from the safe .
`` The group then smashed a window to a stationary Toyota before leaving in a grey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are wearing masks , but if you recognise the car , or have any information on the robbery , please contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight .
Alternatively call 101 anytime or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Please quote crime reference number 20BW/80377K/20 . ''

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Police are hunting masked robbers who raided a city post office and threatened a member of staff with a hammer.
The gang struck on Swarthmore Road, Northfield at 1.30pm on March 31 and escaped with a large amount of cash.
West Midlands Police say the masked men entered the post office with a hammer, threatened and pushed a member of staff before stealing money from the safe.
(Image: WMP)
The group then smashed a window to a stationary Toyota before leaving in a grey Skodia Octavia.
West Midlands Police has issued a picture of the masked gang as well as a car they are trying to trace.
Birmingham Police issued an appeal on Facebook which said: "Do you recognise these men?
"We are appealing for information on a robbery at a post office on Swarthmore Road, Northfield at 1.30pm on Tuesday 31 March.
"Three masked men entered the post office with a hammer, threatened and pushed a member of staff before stealing a large quantity of cash from the safe.
"The group then smashed a window to a stationary Toyota before leaving in a grey Skodia Octavia.
"We know they are wearing masks, but if you recognise the car, or have any information on the robbery, please contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight.
Alternatively call 101 anytime or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime reference number 20BW/80377K/20."


birminghammail--2020-04-16--Cyclist in critical condition after Tamworth collision

A man is in a critical condition after a collision between a car and a bike last night .
The incident happened shortly after 7pm in Glascote Road , Tamworth on Wednesday ( April 15 ) .
The patient , aged in his 40s , was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham where he remains in a critical condition .
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed : “ We were called at 7.14pm last night to Sandy Way , near to Amington Industiral Estate , to reports of a collision between a car and a cyclist ( pushbike ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ paramedic officer and a MERIT trauma doctor to the scene .
On arrival we discovered one patient , a man , who was the cyclist .
`` The man was found in a serious condition and received specialist trauma care at the scene before being transported to Queen Elizabeth Hospital , Birmingham on blue lights and sirens .
`` The doctor travelled in the back of the ambulance to help continue treatment enroute to the hospital.
” A spokesman said : “ Specialist investigators are appealing for information or dash-cam footage following a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were called at 7.20pm yesterday to a report of a road traffic collision on Glascote Road ( B5000 ) in Tamworth .
“ The collision involved a white Fiat Punto and a cyclist who were travelling towards Silver Link Road .
`` The cyclist – a man in his 40s from the local area – was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he remains in critical condition .
`` Officers from the Staffordshire and West Midlands Serious Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for any witnesses to the collision or anyone who saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get in touch .
`` Any witnesses are asked to call 101 or email ciu @ staffordshire.pnn.police.uk quoting incident number 661 of April 15 . ''

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A man is in a critical condition after a collision between a car and a bike last night.
The incident happened shortly after 7pm in Glascote Road, Tamworth on Wednesday (April 15).
The patient, aged in his 40s, was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham where he remains in a critical condition.
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed: “We were called at 7.14pm last night to Sandy Way, near to Amington Industiral Estate, to reports of a collision between a car and a cyclist (pushbike).
“We sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a MERIT trauma doctor to the scene. On arrival we discovered one patient, a man, who was the cyclist.
(Image: Google)
"The man was found in a serious condition and received specialist trauma care at the scene before being transported to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham on blue lights and sirens.
"The doctor travelled in the back of the ambulance to help continue treatment enroute to the hospital.”
Police are appealing for information.
A spokesman said: “Specialist investigators are appealing for information or dash-cam footage following a serious collision in Tamworth.
“Officers were called at 7.20pm yesterday to a report of a road traffic collision on Glascote Road (B5000) in Tamworth.
“The collision involved a white Fiat Punto and a cyclist who were travelling towards Silver Link Road.
"The cyclist – a man in his 40s from the local area – was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he remains in critical condition.
"Officers from the Staffordshire and West Midlands Serious Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for any witnesses to the collision or anyone who saw the car or cycle before the incident to get in touch.
"Any witnesses are asked to call 101 or email ciu@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk quoting incident number 661 of April 15."


birminghammail--2020-04-16--GCSE and A Level results day confirmed after exams cancelled

Students will receive their GCSE and A-level grades on the pre-planned results days in August after exams were cancelled amid the Covid-19 pandemic , the Government has confirmed .
A-level pupils will get their results on August 13 and GCSE students will be given their grades on August 20 , the Department for Education ( DfE ) said .
It comes after exams regulator Ofqual said the results would be released no later than originally planned and suggested they could be made available sooner .
Earlier this month , the watchdog instructed teachers to provide grades for students which reflect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to achieve if the exams had gone ahead .
Schools and colleges have been told to rank pupils within each grade for each subject but not to share these with families until final results are issued .
School Standards Minister Nick Gibb said : `` I am pleased to confirm that GCSE and A-level students will still receive their exam results as planned this summer , on Thursday August 20 and Thursday August 13 respectively .
`` I want to thank all those who are helping to make this happen despite the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this is an important milestone for students , parents and teachers and so I hope this news will provide them with some reassurance and clarity . ''
Schools in England closed more than three weeks ago to the majority of pupils , apart from the children of key workers and vulnerable youngsters , due to the coronavirus outbreak .
On Wednesday , Ofqual launched a two-week consultation on its plans for awarding grades to GCSE and A-level students amid the pandemic .
The regulator had previously said only Year 11 pupils would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is considering issuing grades to those in Year 10 and below after concerns were raised by parents .
Ofqual is also proposing that appeals should only be allowed if a school or college made a data error when submitting information to the exam board , or if the exam board made a mistake when calculating , assigning or communicating a grade .
The watchdog said : `` We do not believe it would be meaningful or appropriate for students to appeal on the basis of their centre 's judgment of their likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone ahead , or on their position in the centre 's rank order . ''
Students will also have the opportunity to sit exams at the earliest opportunity in the new academic year , as well as in summer 2021 .
If they choose to do this , both grades will stand .

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Students will receive their GCSE and A-level grades on the pre-planned results days in August after exams were cancelled amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the Government has confirmed.
A-level pupils will get their results on August 13 and GCSE students will be given their grades on August 20, the Department for Education (DfE) said.
It comes after exams regulator Ofqual said the results would be released no later than originally planned and suggested they could be made available sooner.
Earlier this month, the watchdog instructed teachers to provide grades for students which reflect the results they would have been most likely to achieve if the exams had gone ahead.
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Schools and colleges have been told to rank pupils within each grade for each subject but not to share these with families until final results are issued.
School Standards Minister Nick Gibb said: "I am pleased to confirm that GCSE and A-level students will still receive their exam results as planned this summer, on Thursday August 20 and Thursday August 13 respectively.
"I want to thank all those who are helping to make this happen despite the challenges we are facing. We know that this is an important milestone for students, parents and teachers and so I hope this news will provide them with some reassurance and clarity."
Schools in England closed more than three weeks ago to the majority of pupils, apart from the children of key workers and vulnerable youngsters, due to the coronavirus outbreak.
On Wednesday, Ofqual launched a two-week consultation on its plans for awarding grades to GCSE and A-level students amid the pandemic.
The regulator had previously said only Year 11 pupils would be awarded GCSE grades, but now it is considering issuing grades to those in Year 10 and below after concerns were raised by parents.
Ofqual is also proposing that appeals should only be allowed if a school or college made a data error when submitting information to the exam board, or if the exam board made a mistake when calculating, assigning or communicating a grade.
The watchdog said: "We do not believe it would be meaningful or appropriate for students to appeal on the basis of their centre's judgment of their likely performance in the exams, had they gone ahead, or on their position in the centre's rank order."
Students will also have the opportunity to sit exams at the earliest opportunity in the new academic year, as well as in summer 2021. If they choose to do this, both grades will stand.