birminghammail--2020-05-13--Fears Solihull Hospital minor injuries unit may not return

Fears that key services at Solihull Hospital could permanently move to other sites have prompted a health boss to admit that he could n't make promises about how and when they may return .
It was announced earlier this month that all non-surgical work - including the minor injuries unit - would be transferred elsewhere , with Solihull to become a `` coronavirus-free '' centre .
But the news sparked concerns about whether the services would remain at Heartlands and the Queen Elizabeth hospitals , which are part of the same trust , indefinitely .
Paul Jennings , chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Group ( CCG ) , said this week it was the intention to try to restore services but it was impossible to give a timetable since nobody knew how long the pandemic would last .
In a question submitted to the borough 's health and wellbeing board , local resident Janet Marsh said she could `` fully understand '' the need to have specially designated sites where staff and patients could feel safe .
But she wanted to know `` what assurances are being given , when the crisis is over , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , urgent treatment centre and other facilities that have been temporarily closed . ''
Responding , Mr Jennings apologised that a consultation had n't taken place around the changes but said this was because of the `` urgency '' of the situation .
`` I do n't think any of us know at this stage how long we 'll have to operate in these new kinds of ways because we do n't really know how long this virus will be with us , how it will be with us , when we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he did suggest that options were being looked at on having some form of minor injuries unit even under the current arrangements , but this would be separate from the Lode Lane site .
`` We would n't necessarily want to wait until they have finished using the hospital in that way before we reinstitute some of those services , '' he said .
Previous changes to the hospital have often caused considerable controversy , with a high-profile battle against the decision to strip back maternity services around a decade ago .
Patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Accident and Emergency ( A & E ) unit .
When the latest announcement was made , health bosses said that the initial focus would be on using the site for the most urgent operations , such as cancer surgery .
Cllr Rosemary Sexton ( Green , Shirley West ) had recently told the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) she understood the need for the changes , but it was important to allay local fears .
Cllr Karen Grinsell , who chaired the meeting , said the new system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a future scrutiny board .
Under the new set-up , those undergoing procedures at Solihull will be screened for coronavirus beforehand and may have to self-isolate from their family to reduce the risk of contracting the illness .
Making the announcement , Jonathan Brotherton , of the University Hospitals Birmingham ( UHB ) trust , had said : `` We need to be able to give the public the confidence that that hospital is , as far as we can possibly make it , Covid-free .
`` That then will encourage people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential treatment that they need that they are not currently able to access , or willing to access , because of their concerns . ''
This week the board had heard that the trust had , to date , dealt with 3,091 cases of patients who had tested positive for Covid-19 - one of the largest numbers in the country .
During the `` peak '' of the work - from around the second to the fourth week in April - there were upwards of 170 individuals on ventilators .
Although the trust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases in the region has left it in a position to designate a specific `` coronavirus-free '' centre , with less than 10 patients per day per site now presenting with Covid-19 .

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Fears that key services at Solihull Hospital could permanently move to other sites have prompted a health boss to admit that he couldn't make promises about how and when they may return.
It was announced earlier this month that all non-surgical work - including the minor injuries unit - would be transferred elsewhere, with Solihull to become a "coronavirus-free" centre.
But the news sparked concerns about whether the services would remain at Heartlands and the Queen Elizabeth hospitals, which are part of the same trust, indefinitely.
Paul Jennings, chief executive of the Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said this week it was the intention to try to restore services but it was impossible to give a timetable since nobody knew how long the pandemic would last.
In a question submitted to the borough's health and wellbeing board, local resident Janet Marsh said she could "fully understand" the need to have specially designated sites where staff and patients could feel safe.
But she wanted to know "what assurances are being given, when the crisis is over, that Solihull gets back its minor injuries unit, urgent treatment centre and other facilities that have been temporarily closed."
Responding, Mr Jennings apologised that a consultation hadn't taken place around the changes but said this was because of the "urgency" of the situation.
"I don't think any of us know at this stage how long we'll have to operate in these new kinds of ways because we don't really know how long this virus will be with us, how it will be with us, when we have a vaccine etc etc."
Although he did suggest that options were being looked at on having some form of minor injuries unit even under the current arrangements, but this would be separate from the Lode Lane site.
"We wouldn't necessarily want to wait until they have finished using the hospital in that way before we reinstitute some of those services," he said.
Previous changes to the hospital have often caused considerable controversy, with a high-profile battle against the decision to strip back maternity services around a decade ago.
Patients were also angered about the subsequent loss of the Accident and Emergency (A&E) unit.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
When the latest announcement was made, health bosses said that the initial focus would be on using the site for the most urgent operations, such as cancer surgery.
Cllr Rosemary Sexton (Green, Shirley West) had recently told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) she understood the need for the changes, but it was important to allay local fears.
Cllr Karen Grinsell, who chaired the meeting, said the new system would be subject to further discussions at a future scrutiny board.
Under the new set-up, those undergoing procedures at Solihull will be screened for coronavirus beforehand and may have to self-isolate from their family to reduce the risk of contracting the illness.
Making the announcement, Jonathan Brotherton, of the University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB) trust, had said : "We need to be able to give the public the confidence that that hospital is, as far as we can possibly make it, Covid-free.
"That then will encourage people to come back to the NHS for the essential treatment that they need that they are not currently able to access, or willing to access, because of their concerns."
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This week the board had heard that the trust had, to date, dealt with 3,091 cases of patients who had tested positive for Covid-19 - one of the largest numbers in the country.
During the "peak" of the work - from around the second to the fourth week in April - there were upwards of 170 individuals on ventilators.
Although the trust has said that a tailing off of cases in the region has left it in a position to designate a specific "coronavirus-free" centre, with less than 10 patients per day per site now presenting with Covid-19.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Alone Together podcast - the businesses adapting quickly to 'new normal'

This week 's episode of Alone Together shows how we are adapting to the 'new normal ' triggered by the coronavirus crisis .
More specifically , we take a look at the local businesses who thought fast , adapted quickly to our current situation and are now thriving as a result , whilst also providing vital services to the public and helping those in their local communities .
Birmingham Live Podcast Producer and Alone Together co-host , Matt Millard speaks to James Fisher from Wild Bx who adapted his business quickly and efficiently when lockdown restrictions were put in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the online marketplace in order to bring fresh local fruit and veg to the doorsteps of many across the West Midlands .
Also , Morven McIntyre , finds out how a gin distillery , Oro Distilling Co. in Dalton Dumfriesshire is now making a World Health Organisation accredited hand gel for both key workers and the public .
Ray Clynick , co-founder and head distiller at Origin Gin speaks about what motivated them to make the hand sanitizer .
You can listen here on Spotify or here on Entale or via the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Laudable Production , Produced & Presented by Dan McLaughlin , Morven McIntyre and Matt Millard , edited by Matt Millard .
You can listen to Alone Together : a Coronavirus Podcast wherever you get your podcasts , or you can download the Entale app on iOS or Android for exclusive immersive content to accompany this podcast .
Alone Together : a Coronavirus Podcast is also available from all of your favourite podcast providers including Spotify .
If you like what you hear , please rate and review the show .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Together : a Coronavirus Podcast email morven.mcintyre @ jpress.co.uk , matthew.millard @ reachplc.com or daniel.mclaughlin @ reachplc.com .

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This week's episode of Alone Together shows how we are adapting to the 'new normal' triggered by the coronavirus crisis.
More specifically, we take a look at the local businesses who thought fast, adapted quickly to our current situation and are now thriving as a result, whilst also providing vital services to the public and helping those in their local communities.
Birmingham Live Podcast Producer and Alone Together co-host, Matt Millard speaks to James Fisher from Wild Bx who adapted his business quickly and efficiently when lockdown restrictions were put in place, introducing local fruit and veg markets to the online marketplace in order to bring fresh local fruit and veg to the doorsteps of many across the West Midlands.
Also, Morven McIntyre, finds out how a gin distillery, Oro Distilling Co. in Dalton Dumfriesshire is now making a World Health Organisation accredited hand gel for both key workers and the public. Ray Clynick, co-founder and head distiller at Origin Gin speaks about what motivated them to make the hand sanitizer.
You can listen here on Spotify or here on Entale or via the episode embed below.
Alone Together is a Laudable Production, Produced & Presented by Dan McLaughlin, Morven McIntyre and Matt Millard, edited by Matt Millard.
You can listen to Alone Together: a Coronavirus Podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or you can download the Entale app on iOS or Android for exclusive immersive content to accompany this podcast.
Alone Together: a Coronavirus Podcast is also available from all of your favourite podcast providers including Spotify. If you like what you hear, please rate and review the show.
If you have any comments or questions for Alone Together: a Coronavirus Podcast email morven.mcintyre@jpress.co.uk, matthew.millard@reachplc.com or daniel.mclaughlin@reachplc.com.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Webber explains what should happen to Villa if season isn't finished

Norwich City sporting director Stuart Webber wants relegation scrapped if either the Premier League or Championship ca n't be finished .
Norwich are bottom of the Premier League and six points from safety with nine games to play , with Aston Villa directly above them in the table .
The Premier League are attempting to restart the season in June but doubts remain over whether the Championship will be able to follow suit .
And if the Championship is n't played out , Webber believes the season should be voided which would leave Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being on the brink of promotion .
Speaking on Sky Sports ’ Football Show , Webber said : “ What we could not accept is that we get relegated because they let us play , and then they automatically promote some teams who haven ’ t finished the season .
“ ( For ) anyone who has got promoted from the Championship it is a 46 or 49 game slog .
It ’ s a bit like saying the FA Cup finishes now , we ’ re in the quarter-finals , we beat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ ve beaten two Premier League teams away , does that mean we win the FA Cup , qualify for Europe and we all get a medal ?
“ I know for two of you in the studio - one who has won it as a player ( Gary Neville ) and the other as a manager ( Graeme Souness ) - that would devalue the FA Cup .
That ’ s a really important sporting point .
“ It needs to be settled on the pitch , both coming up and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we run our club as if we ’ re going to finish 20th in the league .
We have to and they ’ re the rules we set .
“ If we get relegated on the pitch , yeah we don ’ t like it but it ’ s also not a major surprise.
” Sign up to our daily Aston Villa newsletter HERE Pressed further by Gary Neville , Webber added : “ Yes , that would be my honest opinion ( that Leeds and West Brom shouldn ’ t be promoted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know what happened when it didn ’ t finish in the war .
I know in non-league they ’ ve already said there ’ s no promotion or relegation so I don ’ t know how they can change the rules .
`` I ’ m a Leeds fan .
I had a season ticket for 10 years .
We all want Leeds back in the Premier League but you have to do it on the pitch . ''

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Norwich City sporting director Stuart Webber wants relegation scrapped if either the Premier League or Championship can't be finished.
Norwich are bottom of the Premier League and six points from safety with nine games to play, with Aston Villa directly above them in the table.
The Premier League are attempting to restart the season in June but doubts remain over whether the Championship will be able to follow suit.
(Image: PA)
And if the Championship isn't played out, Webber believes the season should be voided which would leave Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion in the second tier, despite both clubs being on the brink of promotion.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Football Show, Webber said: “What we could not accept is that we get relegated because they let us play, and then they automatically promote some teams who haven’t finished the season.
“(For) anyone who has got promoted from the Championship it is a 46 or 49 game slog. It’s a bit like saying the FA Cup finishes now, we’re in the quarter-finals, we beat a Championship top six team away, we’ve beaten two Premier League teams away, does that mean we win the FA Cup, qualify for Europe and we all get a medal?
“I know for two of you in the studio - one who has won it as a player (Gary Neville) and the other as a manager (Graeme Souness) - that would devalue the FA Cup. That’s a really important sporting point.
“It needs to be settled on the pitch, both coming up and going down. We accept that and we run our club as if we’re going to finish 20th in the league. We have to and they’re the rules we set.
“If we get relegated on the pitch, yeah we don’t like it but it’s also not a major surprise.”
Sign up to our daily Aston Villa newsletter HERE
Pressed further by Gary Neville, Webber added: “Yes, that would be my honest opinion (that Leeds and West Brom shouldn’t be promoted).
“I don’t know what happened when it didn’t finish in the war. I know in non-league they’ve already said there’s no promotion or relegation so I don’t know how they can change the rules.
"I’m a Leeds fan. I had a season ticket for 10 years. We all want Leeds back in the Premier League but you have to do it on the pitch."


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Tamworth nurses receive welcome treat on 200th birthday of Florence Nightingale

Tamworth district nurses received a deserve treat on the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale on Tuesday .
Members of the Tamworth Self Isolation Support Group visited the Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in Merlin House , Ventura Park with a whole host of treats to show appreciation of the work that staff have been doing .
Councillor Paul Brindley and other members of his group passed on treats to Merlin House representative Claire Maycock .
Paul said : “ I liaised with Claire at the weekend to plan the surprise .
“ We took 40 cream teas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wonderful and special NHS nurses , who care in our community .
“ We wanted to show how much we love and appreciate them and we hope they all enjoyed their little party on the afternoon !
“ I have promised to return once the pandemic is under control and we have returned to more familiar times .
“ I said we ’ d take some Prosecco and cocktails and I have got the feeling they will hold me to that !
” He added : “ There are just no words for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every single shift of their careers but more so in the current times the nation ’ s gratitude could never ever be repaid .
“ For that reason I wanted to do something that would go a very small way in showing them how we feel with a treat for when they finished their shifts.
” The Tamworth district nurses at Merlin House visit patients in their own homes , residential homes and in clinics across the Borough .
They look after patients with chronic conditions supporting them with administration of medications , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and palliative and end of life care .
And the visit from the Tamworth Self Isolation Group was much appreciated .
In messages on Facebook , Claire Maycock said : “ This was such an amazing surprise to our team .
“ The food was delicious and helped us to celebrate the day perfectly .
Thank you so much.
” Lorna Hunt added : “ Thank you for helping us celebrate nurses day !
It really was delicious , and very much appreciated.
” And Abbie Satterthwaite added : “ This was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lovely treat .
”

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Tamworth district nurses received a deserve treat on the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale on Tuesday.
Members of the Tamworth Self Isolation Support Group visited the Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in Merlin House, Ventura Park with a whole host of treats to show appreciation of the work that staff have been doing.
Councillor Paul Brindley and other members of his group passed on treats to Merlin House representative Claire Maycock.
Paul said: “I liaised with Claire at the weekend to plan the surprise.
“We took 40 cream teas and lots of treats for all the wonderful and special NHS nurses, who care in our community.
“We wanted to show how much we love and appreciate them and we hope they all enjoyed their little party on the afternoon!
“I have promised to return once the pandemic is under control and we have returned to more familiar times.
“I said we’d take some Prosecco and cocktails and I have got the feeling they will hold me to that!”
He added: “There are just no words for what nurses do every single minute of every single shift of their careers but more so in the current times the nation’s gratitude could never ever be repaid.
“For that reason I wanted to do something that would go a very small way in showing them how we feel with a treat for when they finished their shifts.”
The Tamworth district nurses at Merlin House visit patients in their own homes, residential homes and in clinics across the Borough.
They look after patients with chronic conditions supporting them with administration of medications, wound care, catheter and continence management, and palliative and end of life care.
And the visit from the Tamworth Self Isolation Group was much appreciated.
In messages on Facebook, Claire Maycock said: “This was such an amazing surprise to our team.
“The food was delicious and helped us to celebrate the day perfectly. Thank you so much.”
Lorna Hunt added: “Thank you for helping us celebrate nurses day! It really was delicious, and very much appreciated.”
And Abbie Satterthwaite added: “This was amazing. Thank you it was a lovely treat.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--The good, the bad and the ugly in Lichfield

While celebrating the local artwork in support of the NHS and key workers , Lichfield District Council ’ s community safety team is also aware of a growing number of fly-tipping incidents and reports of graffiti .
Since lockdown began , the district has seen some wonderful artistic expression by youngsters at home with their parents creating rainbow paintings , which are being displayed in thousands of windows across villages , towns and the city .
This show of solidarity and support for frontline workers is ‘ good ’ .
However , where there is good unfortunately you also get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when rubbish is dumped on local lanes , beauty spots and private land .
The shared waste service for Lichfield and Tamworth has continued to run a full waste and recycling service , where other local authorities have cut back .
The council ’ s grounds maintenance , street cleansing and parks teams have also been continuing to keep the district tidy despite lockdown .
This is something to be applauded and is helping to keep some normality in these difficult times .
Unfortunately , there is also the ‘ ugly ’ , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the district .
Like fly-tipping , it is illegal and costly to remove .
The council ’ s community safety team , working with Staffordshire Police , is especially interested in stopping someone who has spray painted the tag , LÖKM across the Lichfield city .
Councillor Ashley Yeates , Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing , said : `` At a time when the community has come together to support one another , it is such a shame that one individual has decided to spoil our district with their unwanted tags .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are places that it would be more appreciated especially online , where people can learn and grow and interact with likeminded people to become better artists.
” If you have any information about graffiti or any other environmental crime in the district , such as fly-tipping , please report it to the council at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/report .

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While celebrating the local artwork in support of the NHS and key workers, Lichfield District Council’s community safety team is also aware of a growing number of fly-tipping incidents and reports of graffiti.
Since lockdown began, the district has seen some wonderful artistic expression by youngsters at home with their parents creating rainbow paintings, which are being displayed in thousands of windows across villages, towns and the city.
This show of solidarity and support for frontline workers is ‘good’.
However, where there is good unfortunately you also get the ‘bad’, which is when rubbish is dumped on local lanes, beauty spots and private land.
The shared waste service for Lichfield and Tamworth has continued to run a full waste and recycling service, where other local authorities have cut back.
The council’s grounds maintenance, street cleansing and parks teams have also been continuing to keep the district tidy despite lockdown.
This is something to be applauded and is helping to keep some normality in these difficult times.
Unfortunately, there is also the ‘ugly’, which is graffiti defacing many areas of the district. Like fly-tipping, it is illegal and costly to remove.
The council’s community safety team, working with Staffordshire Police, is especially interested in stopping someone who has spray painted the tag, LÖKM across the Lichfield city.
Councillor Ashley Yeates, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, said: "At a time when the community has come together to support one another, it is such a shame that one individual has decided to spoil our district with their unwanted tags.
“While I encourage artistic expression, there are places that it would be more appreciated especially online, where people can learn and grow and interact with likeminded people to become better artists.”
If you have any information about graffiti or any other environmental crime in the district, such as fly-tipping, please report it to the council at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/report.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Thieves scrawl 'thanks pal' on OAP's fence after stealing £500 tools

Brazen burglars left a cruel message saying 'thanks pal ' on a pensioner ’ s fence after stealing more than £500 worth of his power tools .
The thieves spray painted ‘ thanks ' , ‘ ha ' and a sad emoji face in green writing across the granddad 's property after breaking into his shed .
They helped themselves to two welding sets and an angle grinder in the early hours of the morning on 3 May .
The 68-year-old from Fleetwood , Lancs.
, who does not wish to be named as he fears reprisals , was intimidated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ His daughter Helen said : “ He was just gobsmacked - we all were .
“ He looked small of a sudden and it really upset him .
`` His shed is his pride and joy .
That is what keeps him sane.
” The thieves took a Makita angle grinder , a Hawk welding set and a Clark arc welding set .
Neighbours quickly rallied round and painted over the graffiti within a few hours because of worries it could be a marker for more break-ins .
Helen said : “ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearly very stupid .
“ They are selfish and have continued graffiting round town like they are never going to get caught.
” Lancashire Police said they are investigating reports of burglaries in the area and enquiries are ongoing .

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Brazen burglars left a cruel message saying 'thanks pal' on a pensioner’s fence after stealing more than £500 worth of his power tools.
The thieves spray painted ‘thanks', ‘ha' and a sad emoji face in green writing across the granddad's property after breaking into his shed.
They helped themselves to two welding sets and an angle grinder in the early hours of the morning on 3 May.
The 68-year-old from Fleetwood, Lancs., who does not wish to be named as he fears reprisals, was intimidated when he saw the arrogant message.
His daughter Helen said: “He was just gobsmacked - we all were.
“He looked small of a sudden and it really upset him.
"His shed is his pride and joy. That is what keeps him sane.”
The thieves took a Makita angle grinder, a Hawk welding set and a Clark arc welding set.
Neighbours quickly rallied round and painted over the graffiti within a few hours because of worries it could be a marker for more break-ins.
Helen said: “The idiots who have done this are just clearly very stupid.
“They are selfish and have continued graffiting round town like they are never going to get caught.”
Lancashire Police said they are investigating reports of burglaries in the area and enquiries are ongoing.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Meet the cop who has clocked up 473 hours of unpaid work this year

Britain ’ s most dedicated Special Constable has clocked up a staggering 473 hours of police work this year – completely UNPAID .
Ross Miller , 21 , has worked the equivalent of 60 days free including 245 hours patrolling the streets in April during the lockdown .
Since January , the devoted bobby has made seven arrests and helped catch violent criminals as well as investigating vandalism , burglaries , drug offences , car thefts and arson .
Most Special Constables work around 160 hours-a-month but SC Miller has been putting in the extra hours while on furlough from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hoping to beat last year ’ s record which saw him work a gruelling 1,326 hours – the same as 166 days unpaid .
He has been volunteering as a special constable at Nottinghamshire Police for two-and-a-half years and hopes to become a regular officer in the future .
SC Miller said : `` I really enjoy what I do .
That 's why I put so much effort in .
Some people like going out every night , playing sports , whatever .
“ This is my hobby and I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news came that I was furloughed and that gave the real opportunity to put more hours into the role .
“ I 'm relishing it to be honest .
“ Specials are an extra resource for the force and I plan to help and support as much as I can during this difficult time for everyone . ''
SC Miller works as a response officer in the Retford , Haworth and Worksop area , going to a range of incidents to help colleagues .
He added : `` I 've done a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line cops and helping with arrests .
“ Recently I 've had to deal with domestic incidents and supporting people with mental health issues .
`` Also , with fewer cars on the road , I 've been able to engage , encourage and explain those who are making those essentials journeys .
“ There is obviously a lot less traffic , so it 's important we keep those people who are on bikes and running , doing their exercise that they are in a safe environment to do so .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next stage and I 've already applied to become a regular officer .
`` Last year I did a good amount , but I 'm aiming to beat that total and try to do even more .
`` I 'd love to get to that 2,000-hour mark and with the current climate I 've got a good chance to dedicate my time to my policing responsibilities.
” There are currently more than 11,000 Special Constables volunteering their time in forces across the UK .
Superintendent Suk Verma said : `` We want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unbelievable dedication to the force in times of Covid-19 .
`` Four-hundred–and-seventy-three hours is absolutely incredible .
I just wanted to personally thank him for all his hard work and commitment to his specials role .
`` He has completed as many hours in one month that someone officers complete in a whole year .
He is a credit to the Special Constables .
“ Our Specials continue to put themselves on the line in order to keep others safe during this outbreak .
”

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Britain’s most dedicated Special Constable has clocked up a staggering 473 hours of police work this year – completely UNPAID.
Ross Miller, 21, has worked the equivalent of 60 days free including 245 hours patrolling the streets in April during the lockdown.
Since January, the devoted bobby has made seven arrests and helped catch violent criminals as well as investigating vandalism, burglaries, drug offences, car thefts and arson.
Most Special Constables work around 160 hours-a-month but SC Miller has been putting in the extra hours while on furlough from his job in retail.
SC Miller is hoping to beat last year’s record which saw him work a gruelling 1,326 hours – the same as 166 days unpaid.
He has been volunteering as a special constable at Nottinghamshire Police for two-and-a-half years and hopes to become a regular officer in the future.
SC Miller said: "I really enjoy what I do. That's why I put so much effort in. Some people like going out every night, playing sports, whatever.
“This is my hobby and I'm very passionate about it.
"The news came that I was furloughed and that gave the real opportunity to put more hours into the role.
“I'm relishing it to be honest.
“Specials are an extra resource for the force and I plan to help and support as much as I can during this difficult time for everyone."
SC Miller works as a response officer in the Retford, Haworth and Worksop area, going to a range of incidents to help colleagues.
He added: "I've done a lot already in 2020 including working alongside front line cops and helping with arrests.
“Recently I've had to deal with domestic incidents and supporting people with mental health issues.
"Also, with fewer cars on the road, I've been able to engage, encourage and explain those who are making those essentials journeys.
“There is obviously a lot less traffic, so it's important we keep those people who are on bikes and running, doing their exercise that they are in a safe environment to do so.
"I'm now keen to go to the next stage and I've already applied to become a regular officer.
"Last year I did a good amount, but I'm aiming to beat that total and try to do even more.
"I'd love to get to that 2,000-hour mark and with the current climate I've got a good chance to dedicate my time to my policing responsibilities.”
There are currently more than 11,000 Special Constables volunteering their time in forces across the UK.
Superintendent Suk Verma said: "We want to thank SC Miller for his phenomenal and unbelievable dedication to the force in times of Covid-19.
"Four-hundred–and-seventy-three hours is absolutely incredible. I just wanted to personally thank him for all his hard work and commitment to his specials role.
"He has completed as many hours in one month that someone officers complete in a whole year. He is a credit to the Special Constables.
“Our Specials continue to put themselves on the line in order to keep others safe during this outbreak.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Mum and brother die of coronavirus on adjacent wards - just 3 days apart

A care home manager has paid tribute to her mother and brother who died of coronavirus on adjacent hospital wards - just three days apart .
Heartbroken Sue Aldridge , 52 , has been on the frontline of the fight against Covid-19 at a residential care home .
But the grandmother said she has also suffered a great personal tragedy with the loss of her mum Jean , 76 , and brother , Ian , 48 , to the deadly disease .
Jean died on April 14 after it was suspected she caught the virus after a hospital stay following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days later - in the same hospital - Ian , who suffered with several physical and mental disabilities , also lost his battle without any family by his side .
Sue said one of the most devastating aspects was that they were both so close to each other at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton - but died alone .
She has spoken of her loss to warn the public against complacency around the easing of lockdown restrictions - and to try and put a human face on the huge numbers of deaths being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has also released a heartbreaking image of her family being forced to watch both funerals on zoom as lockdown stopped them being able to travel .
She said : `` The only consolation in all this is that they are together .
`` They caught the virus together and Ian went into hospital about a week after mum did .
`` They were in the same hospital and on adjacent wards , but no-one could go and see them .
`` The nurses were amazing though .
I spoke to one doctor who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking after my brother and asked if he could go and hold his hand and tell him we all loved him , which he did . ''
Sue said her mother lived in Willenhall in the Midlands with husband , Pete , and Ian , who had lifelong disabilities .
She added : `` My mum was one in a million , she really was .
A couple of months ago she was not well and visited her and took her into town in a wheelchair .
It took about two hours to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stopped her to speak .
`` Everyone knew her and she was a bit of a local celebrity .
`` She was open , honest , funny , and would do anything for everyone .
She was a real star .
`` We think she caught it in hospital as she had a couple of falls right at the beginning when this all started . ''
Ian was born with a cord wrapped around his neck and had severe mental and physical disabilities .
His mum left two weeks after he was born @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's family at the age of three .
`` I was seven at the time when my family got him out of the home , Sue added .
`` They brought him home and just said 'this is your new brother ' and instantly I fell in love with him .
`` He was always happy and smiling and loved his cars .
We just always had such a special bond that whenever we saw each other we were so happy and he just held me .
`` He was just amazing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Cornwall , had to watch her mother ’ s and brother ’ s funerals online .
She added : `` We streamed the funerals at home on the television and had watch over zoom .
My dad , sister , brother and his husband , and two nieces who lived nearby could go so there was a small family unit there .
`` But we were not able to travel .
It was hard .
`` I have to say though that my family have been amazing and so supportive of each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how strong they all are .
“ We obviously wanted to be there but just had to make the best of it . ''
Despite her family tragedy , Sue , who has two daughters and three grandchildren , was desperate to get back to work at Penberthy Care home , a 34-bed facility run by Cornwall Care .
She added : `` It ’ s given me something to think about and everyone has been so supportive .
`` I just feel like the human aspect of the tragedy has not been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all seems to be about the numbers , which are huge .
But that is 30,000 families in a similar situation as me .
I just do n't feel people hear enough about that .
`` Maybe if they did , that might make them think about going outside and pushing past people in the street .
I see so many people who do n't seem to be aware of what they are doing - and it is so frustrating .
`` I do feel it is too early to lift restrictions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another three weeks and see how the numbers stack up .
But all the key workers are amazing .
They are terrified but still going ahead to keep everything going . ''
The care home where she works has taken all measures it can to stop the virus from taking over and has so far not had any confirmed cases .
She added : `` We are very lucky as we have never had to worry about PPE and the company has worked around the clock to make sure staff get everything they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ horror stories but we have been really lucky and are very strict about people coming and out the care home .
The only people we are letting in are paramedics , doctors , nurses and staff .
`` The staff have been amazing but they are all absolutely terrified at the moment .
`` We do have an isolation unit set up but Cornwall has got off lightly so far .
`` But people should not be complacent and need to keep taking this seriously . ''

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A care home manager has paid tribute to her mother and brother who died of coronavirus on adjacent hospital wards - just three days apart.
Heartbroken Sue Aldridge, 52, has been on the frontline of the fight against Covid-19 at a residential care home.
But the grandmother said she has also suffered a great personal tragedy with the loss of her mum Jean, 76, and brother, Ian, 48, to the deadly disease.
Jean died on April 14 after it was suspected she caught the virus after a hospital stay following a fall.
And tragically just three days later - in the same hospital - Ian, who suffered with several physical and mental disabilities, also lost his battle without any family by his side.
Sue said one of the most devastating aspects was that they were both so close to each other at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton - but died alone.
She has spoken of her loss to warn the public against complacency around the easing of lockdown restrictions - and to try and put a human face on the huge numbers of deaths being released on a daily basis.
She has also released a heartbreaking image of her family being forced to watch both funerals on zoom as lockdown stopped them being able to travel.
She said: "The only consolation in all this is that they are together.
"They caught the virus together and Ian went into hospital about a week after mum did.
"They were in the same hospital and on adjacent wards, but no-one could go and see them.
"That was devastating.
"The nurses were amazing though. I spoke to one doctor who knew mum had passed away and was looking after my brother and asked if he could go and hold his hand and tell him we all loved him, which he did."
(Image: Sue Aldridge / SWNS)
Sue said her mother lived in Willenhall in the Midlands with husband, Pete, and Ian, who had lifelong disabilities.
She added: "My mum was one in a million, she really was. A couple of months ago she was not well and visited her and took her into town in a wheelchair. It took about two hours to travel about half a mile as everyone stopped her to speak.
"Everyone knew her and she was a bit of a local celebrity.
"She was open, honest, funny, and would do anything for everyone. She was a real star.
"We think she caught it in hospital as she had a couple of falls right at the beginning when this all started."
(Image: Sue Aldridge / SWNS)
Ian was born with a cord wrapped around his neck and had severe mental and physical disabilities.
His mum left two weeks after he was born, and he was adopted into Sue's family at the age of three.
"I was seven at the time when my family got him out of the home, Sue added.
"They brought him home and just said 'this is your new brother' and instantly I fell in love with him.
"He was always happy and smiling and loved his cars. We just always had such a special bond that whenever we saw each other we were so happy and he just held me.
"He was just amazing."
(Image: Sue Aldridge / SWNS)
Sue, of St Columb Major, Cornwall, had to watch her mother’s and brother’s funerals online.
She added: "We streamed the funerals at home on the television and had watch over zoom. My dad, sister, brother and his husband, and two nieces who lived nearby could go so there was a small family unit there.
"But we were not able to travel. It was hard.
"I have to say though that my family have been amazing and so supportive of each other. It is amazing to see how strong they all are.
“We obviously wanted to be there but just had to make the best of it."
Despite her family tragedy, Sue, who has two daughters and three grandchildren, was desperate to get back to work at Penberthy Care home, a 34-bed facility run by Cornwall Care.
She added: "It’s given me something to think about and everyone has been so supportive.
"I just feel like the human aspect of the tragedy has not been shown much in the media. It all seems to be about the numbers, which are huge. But that is 30,000 families in a similar situation as me. I just don't feel people hear enough about that.
"Maybe if they did, that might make them think about going outside and pushing past people in the street. I see so many people who don't seem to be aware of what they are doing - and it is so frustrating.
"I do feel it is too early to lift restrictions and felt we should give it at least another three weeks and see how the numbers stack up. But all the key workers are amazing. They are terrified but still going ahead to keep everything going."
The care home where she works has taken all measures it can to stop the virus from taking over and has so far not had any confirmed cases.
She added: "We are very lucky as we have never had to worry about PPE and the company has worked around the clock to make sure staff get everything they need.
"I know of some horror stories but we have been really lucky and are very strict about people coming and out the care home. The only people we are letting in are paramedics, doctors, nurses and staff.
"The staff have been amazing but they are all absolutely terrified at the moment.
"We do have an isolation unit set up but Cornwall has got off lightly so far.
"But people should not be complacent and need to keep taking this seriously."


birminghammail--2020-05-13--£90k benefits cheat faked being in wheelchair before competing in speedway

A benefits cheat who pocketed £90,000 of taxpayers ’ cash by claiming he was wheelchair-bound was rumbled after being caught competing in SPEEDWAY races .
Stephen Hodgkinson brazenly swindled thousands of pounds over a 17 year period while taking part in cycle speedway events and teaching exercise classes .
A court heard the 58-year-old had claimed he needed round-the-clock care , was confined to a wheelchair and could only walk with assistance .
Hodgkinson also said his condition left him so weak that on some days he couldn ’ t manage with basic household tasks , such as eating and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fraudster after discovering he was racing for the Birmingham Monarchs cycle speedway club .
He was also running and taking part in indoor Vibe cycling classes as well as regularly attending the gym at Birmingham 's Alexander Stadium .
Pictures of him taking part in races and posing beside trophies on his Facebook and Twitter pages also came to light before he was arrested .
Hodgkinson , of Smethwick , West Mids.
, pleaded guilty to failing to report a change in circumstances and dishonest representation in order to obtain benefits .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an 18 month prison sentence , suspended for two years at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Monday ( 11/5 ) .
He was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work .
Sentencing , Judge Martin Jackson said : `` Your initial claim for Disability Living Allowance was a legitimate one .
`` But over a significant period of time you failed to notify the DWP in changes to your circumstances and painted a picture one can only describe as extreme helplessness .
`` You failed to tell the DWP that you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your claim started .
`` By your plea you accept you were dishonest in your failure to notify them . ''
The court heard how Hodgkinson initially made a genuine claim for support in 2002 as he suffered with AIDS .
But in the years that followed his condition improved significantly , to the point where he was able to race competitively and undertake regular exercise .
He was put under surveillance by investigators and was seen walking freely around the speedway track and riding in competition in a “ fast-paced , competitive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said Hodgkinson told assessors on a “ good day ” he could drive to see friends but said he `` could not walk without significant discomfort . ''
He added : `` He described how he needed physical help to get dressed , to eat and use drinks . ''
Hodgkinson failed to inform the DWP his condition improved and even challenged a lower rate when his support was switched to Personal Independent Payments in 2016 .
Mr Berry said there was `` significant planning '' to ensure he continued to receive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his condition improved .
She added : `` He was living with a frightening and life-limiting condition .
He accepts it was n't as bad as he said .
It improved and he deeply regrets not telling anybody . ''
After the case , a DWP spokesman said : `` Benefit fraud is a crime that diverts money from those who really need it .
`` In addition to any sentence imposed by the court , people must pay back all the money they falsely obtained .
“ We have zero tolerance of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swift action to investigate , supporting our partners and prosecutors to bring them to justice .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jack Evans, James Rodger)

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A benefits cheat who pocketed £90,000 of taxpayers’ cash by claiming he was wheelchair-bound was rumbled after being caught competing in SPEEDWAY races.
Stephen Hodgkinson brazenly swindled thousands of pounds over a 17 year period while taking part in cycle speedway events and teaching exercise classes.
A court heard the 58-year-old had claimed he needed round-the-clock care, was confined to a wheelchair and could only walk with assistance.
Hodgkinson also said his condition left him so weak that on some days he couldn’t manage with basic household tasks, such as eating and getting dressed.
But DWP investigators nailed the fraudster after discovering he was racing for the Birmingham Monarchs cycle speedway club.
He was also running and taking part in indoor Vibe cycling classes as well as regularly attending the gym at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium.
Pictures of him taking part in races and posing beside trophies on his Facebook and Twitter pages also came to light before he was arrested.
Hodgkinson, of Smethwick, West Mids., pleaded guilty to failing to report a change in circumstances and dishonest representation in order to obtain benefits.
(Image: DWP / SWNS)
But he avoided jail after being given an 18 month prison sentence, suspended for two years at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Monday (11/5).
He was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.
Sentencing, Judge Martin Jackson said: "Your initial claim for Disability Living Allowance was a legitimate one.
"But over a significant period of time you failed to notify the DWP in changes to your circumstances and painted a picture one can only describe as extreme helplessness.
"You failed to tell the DWP that you were in significantly better condition than when your claim started.
"By your plea you accept you were dishonest in your failure to notify them."
(Image: DWP / SWNS)
The court heard how Hodgkinson initially made a genuine claim for support in 2002 as he suffered with AIDS.
But in the years that followed his condition improved significantly, to the point where he was able to race competitively and undertake regular exercise.
He was put under surveillance by investigators and was seen walking freely around the speedway track and riding in competition in a “fast-paced, competitive nature”.
Nicholas Berry, prosecuting, said Hodgkinson told assessors on a “good day” he could drive to see friends but said he "could not walk without significant discomfort."
He added: "He described how he needed physical help to get dressed, to eat and use drinks."
Hodgkinson failed to inform the DWP his condition improved and even challenged a lower rate when his support was switched to Personal Independent Payments in 2016.
Mr Berry said there was "significant planning" to ensure he continued to receive cash he was not entitled to once his condition improved.
Balvinder Bhatti, defending, said Hodgkinson's initial claim was genuine.
She added: "He was living with a frightening and life-limiting condition. He accepts it wasn't as bad as he said. It improved and he deeply regrets not telling anybody."
After the case, a DWP spokesman said: "Benefit fraud is a crime that diverts money from those who really need it.
"In addition to any sentence imposed by the court, people must pay back all the money they falsely obtained.
“We have zero tolerance of anyone fraudulently claiming benefits and will take swift action to investigate, supporting our partners and prosecutors to bring them to justice.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Rude advert for healthy fruit smoothies deemed too saucy for TV banned

A new commercial for healthy fruit smoothies has been called too rude for TV .
Dubbed ‘ health food porn ’ by its makers , the 30-second advert has got censors hot under the collar , calling for it to be screened after dark .
The commercial , accompanied with a jaunty whistling soundtrack , sees a medley of fruit seductively handled and ending with a jet of fruit smoothie erupting from a pouch .
It begins with a shot of a pert pair of avocados , followed by an upright length of banana being stroked with a single female @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a juicy orange .
The advert progresses with sensual images of an apricot being prised open , a man cupping a pair of hairy kiwi fruits , and running his finger over a bulbous avocado stone .
As a banana rises into view , dripping in honey , smoothie juice drips from the centre of a strawberry .
The final scenes show a lemon and avocado squeezed with vigour , a banana break in half , and a geyser of smoothie flying over raspberries and blueberries which lay on a bed of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the commercial to be screened after the 9pm watershed , despite it being devoid of a single sweaty body .
The 30-second spot was made by health food brand Swisse Me to promote the ingredients in their range of ready-to-drink smoothies .
Nykkea Maretic , from Swisse Me , said : “ There ’ s nothing more natural than getting a mouthful of fruit , which is exactly what our smoothies are packed with .
`` All the goodness , with none of the filth .
`` We can deliver them straight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you want to be discreet.
” “ We know how tricky it is to get in daily vitamins and minerals , so we ’ ve made it super easy with handy smoothies in 12 deliciously naughty flavours.
” The advert ’ s director Rowan Adams added : “ This isn ’ t just any food porn commercial - it is a health food porn commercial .
”

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A new commercial for healthy fruit smoothies has been called too rude for TV.
Dubbed ‘health food porn’ by its makers, the 30-second advert has got censors hot under the collar, calling for it to be screened after dark.
The commercial, accompanied with a jaunty whistling soundtrack, sees a medley of fruit seductively handled and ending with a jet of fruit smoothie erupting from a pouch.
It begins with a shot of a pert pair of avocados, followed by an upright length of banana being stroked with a single female finger and a man plunging two fingers into a juicy orange.
The advert progresses with sensual images of an apricot being prised open, a man cupping a pair of hairy kiwi fruits, and running his finger over a bulbous avocado stone.
As a banana rises into view, dripping in honey, smoothie juice drips from the centre of a strawberry.
The final scenes show a lemon and avocado squeezed with vigour, a banana break in half, and a geyser of smoothie flying over raspberries and blueberries which lay on a bed of spinach leaves.
Ad censors have called for the commercial to be screened after the 9pm watershed, despite it being devoid of a single sweaty body.
(Image: Swisse Me / SWNS.COM)
The 30-second spot was made by health food brand Swisse Me to promote the ingredients in their range of ready-to-drink smoothies.
Nykkea Maretic, from Swisse Me, said: “There’s nothing more natural than getting a mouthful of fruit, which is exactly what our smoothies are packed with.
"All the goodness, with none of the filth.
"We can deliver them straight to your letterbox too, in case you want to be discreet.”
(Image: Swisse Me / SWNS.COM)
“We know how tricky it is to get in daily vitamins and minerals, so we’ve made it super easy with handy smoothies in 12 deliciously naughty flavours.”
The advert’s director Rowan Adams added: “This isn’t just any food porn commercial - it is a health food porn commercial.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--What today's lockdown changes mean for Brummies waiting to move house

Brummies who have had their plans to move house put on hold by the coronavirus pandemic can finally resume their plans following government changes to the lockdown rules .
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has today ( Wednesday , May 13 ) implemented new guidance in a bid to wake the market from its slumber .
It is estimated nearly half a million people have been left waiting to move house since the lockdown was imposed on March 23 .
Mr Jenrick confirmed that buyers and renters will now be able to complete purchases and view properties in person , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while solicitors and removal firms can return to work .
Tradespeople , such as fitters , are also allowed to operate in homes .
However the Housing Secretary stressed that all must still adhere to the social distancing guidelines .
He said : `` Today I am announcing new guidelines to allow the housing market to resume .
Our clear plan will enable people to move home safely , covering each aspect of the sales and letting process from viewings to removals .
`` Our step by step plan is based on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and protection of everyone involved .
This critical industry can now safely move forward , and those waiting patiently to move can now do so . ''
The Housing Secretary also announced a number of other measures for the construction industry including : • Allowing buildings to agree more flexible working hours with councils which could see staff arrival times staggered • Enabling new planning applications to be publicised through social media - as opposed to physical posters and leaflets on location • Support for smaller developers , struggling with cash flow problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to councils John Newcomb , chief executive officer of the Builders Merchants Federation , said : `` Safety has the highest priority as the industry returns to work .
Over the past three weeks , since the publication of new branch operating guidelines , we have seen increasing numbers of merchants safely re-opening or expanding operations to support their trade customers .
`` House builders structured return to site provides even more confidence within the supply chain , and provides further evidence of the construction industry ’ s determination to assist in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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Brummies who have had their plans to move house put on hold by the coronavirus pandemic can finally resume their plans following government changes to the lockdown rules.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has today (Wednesday, May 13) implemented new guidance in a bid to wake the market from its slumber. It is estimated nearly half a million people have been left waiting to move house since the lockdown was imposed on March 23.
Mr Jenrick confirmed that buyers and renters will now be able to complete purchases and view properties in person, that estate agents and show homes can re-open, while solicitors and removal firms can return to work. Tradespeople, such as fitters, are also allowed to operate in homes. However the Housing Secretary stressed that all must still adhere to the social distancing guidelines.
He said: "Today I am announcing new guidelines to allow the housing market to resume. Our clear plan will enable people to move home safely, covering each aspect of the sales and letting process from viewings to removals.
"Our step by step plan is based on the latest guidance to ensure the safety and protection of everyone involved. This critical industry can now safely move forward, and those waiting patiently to move can now do so."
The Housing Secretary also announced a number of other measures for the construction industry including:
Allowing buildings to agree more flexible working hours with councils which could see staff arrival times staggered
Enabling new planning applications to be publicised through social media - as opposed to physical posters and leaflets on location
Support for smaller developers, struggling with cash flow problems, by allowing them to defer payments to councils
John Newcomb, chief executive officer of the Builders Merchants Federation, said: "Safety has the highest priority as the industry returns to work. Over the past three weeks, since the publication of new branch operating guidelines, we have seen increasing numbers of merchants safely re-opening or expanding operations to support their trade customers.
"House builders structured return to site provides even more confidence within the supply chain, and provides further evidence of the construction industry’s determination to assist in the recovery of the UK economy."


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Government probe into hundreds of alleged furlough fraud cases

Hundreds of workers have reported their employers over claims that they are fraudulently taking furlough money from the Government .
HMRC confirmed it has received 795 reports of potential fraud related to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme .
It said it will now be `` assessing '' these cases in line with its usual procedures .
The scheme was introduced from March , with the Government pledging to pay 80 % of the wages of workers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic , in a bid to protect jobs .
On Tuesday , Chancellor Rishi Sunak outlined plans to extend the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One stipulation of the scheme is that workers must not complete any work at all for their organisations to be eligible for the pay-out .
Bosses at whistleblower support organisations told Sky News that many workers are scared to report employers who are asking them to continue to work despite claiming furlough support .
Liz Gardiner , chief executive of Protect , said : `` We expect this is just the tip of the iceberg .
`` In this time of unprecedented change , when people are really worried about their jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stand up and say ' I think you 're committing fraud , employer , and I 'm going to report you ' . ''
Latest figures show that 7.5 million jobs have been furloughed since the scheme was launched , with 935,000 employers choosing to furlough staff .
A spokesman said : `` HMRC is committed to ensuring the tax systems we operate are used fairly and efficiently and , where necessary , will take action to ensure compliance with the relevant rules , regulations and legislation that govern the UK taxation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information provided to us by members of the public aimed at helping us achieve that goal .
`` HMRC treats its duty of care to those who report fraud to us as a priority and we have a number of mechanisms set in place to ensure the safety of those individuals . ''
Meanwhile , on Tuesday , the Health and Safety Executive ( HSE ) threatened to come down hard on firms which break coronavirus safety rules as some people begin to return to work this week .

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Hundreds of workers have reported their employers over claims that they are fraudulently taking furlough money from the Government.
HMRC confirmed it has received 795 reports of potential fraud related to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
It said it will now be "assessing" these cases in line with its usual procedures.
The scheme was introduced from March, with the Government pledging to pay 80% of the wages of workers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, in a bid to protect jobs.
On Tuesday, Chancellor Rishi Sunak outlined plans to extend the furlough scheme until the end of October.
One stipulation of the scheme is that workers must not complete any work at all for their organisations to be eligible for the pay-out.
Bosses at whistleblower support organisations told Sky News that many workers are scared to report employers who are asking them to continue to work despite claiming furlough support.
Liz Gardiner, chief executive of Protect, said: "We expect this is just the tip of the iceberg.
"In this time of unprecedented change, when people are really worried about their jobs, it's a really difficult thing to stand up and say 'I think you're committing fraud, employer, and I'm going to report you'."
(Image: PA)
Latest figures show that 7.5 million jobs have been furloughed since the scheme was launched, with 935,000 employers choosing to furlough staff.
A spokesman said: "HMRC is committed to ensuring the tax systems we operate are used fairly and efficiently and, where necessary, will take action to ensure compliance with the relevant rules, regulations and legislation that govern the UK taxation systems.
"We value all the information provided to us by members of the public aimed at helping us achieve that goal.
"HMRC treats its duty of care to those who report fraud to us as a priority and we have a number of mechanisms set in place to ensure the safety of those individuals."
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) threatened to come down hard on firms which break coronavirus safety rules as some people begin to return to work this week.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Cyclist found in critical condition on major dual carriageway

Medics administered advanced life support to a cyclist after he was found in a critical condition on a dual carriageway in Dudley .
Emergency services – including police and ambulance staff – sealed off Duncan Edwards Way and Flood Street after a 999 call at around 8.30pm on Tuesday , May 12 .
The biker , a man , was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment , a spokesman for West midlands Ambulance confirmed .
The spokesman added : `` We were called at 8.31pm last night to the junction of Dudley Southern Bypass and Flood Street in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a paramedic officer and BASICS doctor to the scene .
`` On arrival , we found a male cyclist in a critical condition .
`` Crews administered advanced life support on scene before taking him to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment . ''
It is not fully known how the cyclist came to be seriously injured but West Midlands Police has been contacted for comment .
Pictures from the scene , which were taken by local residents and circulates online , shows a number of police cars flooding the road while @ @ @ @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jordan Coussins, Charlotte Regen)

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Medics administered advanced life support to a cyclist after he was found in a critical condition on a dual carriageway in Dudley.
Emergency services – including police and ambulance staff – sealed off Duncan Edwards Way and Flood Street after a 999 call at around 8.30pm on Tuesday, May 12.
The biker, a man, was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment, a spokesman for West midlands Ambulance confirmed.
The spokesman added: "We were called at 8.31pm last night to the junction of Dudley Southern Bypass and Flood Street in Dudley.
"We sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and BASICS doctor to the scene.
"On arrival, we found a male cyclist in a critical condition.
"Crews administered advanced life support on scene before taking him to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment."
It is not fully known how the cyclist came to be seriously injured but West Midlands Police has been contacted for comment.
Pictures from the scene, which were taken by local residents and circulates online, shows a number of police cars flooding the road while crews worked on the patient.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Dobbies reopens - queues, PPE and social distancing at garden centres

It 's been almost two months since they shut their doors in a bid to help curb the coronavirus pandemic .
But today - May 13 - there were lengthy queues outside garden centres as many reopened , after lockdown measures were controversially eased by the UK government .
Green-fingered Brummies waited in socially-distanced lines to enter stores - with our photographer capturing these scenes outside a garden centre near Sutton Coldfield .
In footage , which you can watch above , shoppers and workers can be seen wearing PPE inside the branch of Dobbies , in Shenstone .
Markers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stand to keep a safe distance , and customers are also being encouraged to shop alone and pay by card .
The Shenstone store is one of 54 shops belonging to the garden centre chain to reopen across the UK .
Graeme Jenkins , CEO of Dobbies , said : “ We have taken care to ensure we are following guidance provided by the Government , British Retail Consortium and Horticultural Trade Association to reopen responsibly .
“ Our team is well prepared , social distancing measures are in place and we look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stores across England .
“ I would like to thank our team members and customers for their understanding during these uncertain times.
” Addressing the nation on Sunday , Boris Johnson has said there will be no immediate end to the lockdown .
The Prime Minister said the `` stay home '' slogan would be altered to urge Britons to instead `` stay alert '' .
However , as well as reopening garden centres , there are a number of other things you are also able to do from today .
They include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - under strict rules ; sitting in your local park ; sunbathing ; driving elsewhere ; play tennis or sports and go to work , if you can .

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It's been almost two months since they shut their doors in a bid to help curb the coronavirus pandemic.
But today - May 13 - there were lengthy queues outside garden centres as many reopened, after lockdown measures were controversially eased by the UK government.
Green-fingered Brummies waited in socially-distanced lines to enter stores - with our photographer capturing these scenes outside a garden centre near Sutton Coldfield.
In footage, which you can watch above, shoppers and workers can be seen wearing PPE inside the branch of Dobbies, in Shenstone.
Markers on the floor indicate where shoppers can stand to keep a safe distance, and customers are also being encouraged to shop alone and pay by card.
The Shenstone store is one of 54 shops belonging to the garden centre chain to reopen across the UK.
Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies, said: “We have taken care to ensure we are following guidance provided by the Government, British Retail Consortium and Horticultural Trade Association to reopen responsibly.
“Our team is well prepared, social distancing measures are in place and we look forward to welcoming customers back into our stores across England.
“I would like to thank our team members and customers for their understanding during these uncertain times.”
Addressing the nation on Sunday, Boris Johnson has said there will be no immediate end to the lockdown.
The Prime Minister said the "stay home" slogan would be altered to urge Britons to instead "stay alert".
However, as well as reopening garden centres, there are a number of other things you are also able to do from today.
They include, unlimited exercise; meeting a friend - under strict rules; sitting in your local park; sunbathing; driving elsewhere; play tennis or sports and go to work, if you can.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Ikea makes huge change to blue bags in makeover - and they look brilliant

IKEA will be selling an LGBT+ rainbow flag version of its iconic blue FRAKTA bag to celebrate the International Day Against Homophobia , Transphobia and Biphobia – which takes place this Sunday 17 May – and LGBT+ Pride month in June .
The bag , which will cost £1.50 , will be available online from Friday 15 May .
One hundred percent of the profits made will be distributed to support local LGBT+ initiatives , charities and causes chosen by IKEA stores across the UK and Ireland , to ensure funds are directed to those from the LGBT+ community who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a time when we are confined to our houses but perhaps not our homes , LGBT+ people risk being more stigmatised , discriminated and isolated than ever before .
The special edition bag aims to promote standing up against discrimination of the LGBT+ community and promoting equal rights on 17 May and every day .
Through the retailer ’ s IDAHOBIT campaign , IKEA is encouraging its co-workers and customers to ‘ be someone ’ s home ’ , spreading the message that everyone can provide a safe and welcoming space for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Peter Jelkeby , Country Retail Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer , IKEA UK and Ireland , commented : “ At IKEA , our culture is centred on the value of togetherness .
We believe equality is a human right and that everyone deserves a home where they can be themselves .
“ We know that lockdown will disproportionately effect the LGBT+ community .
With many isolated from their support networks , and with Pride celebrations postponed , it has never been more important to show our support and encourage everyone to provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the LGBT+ community and ‘ be someone ’ s home ’ .
“ We will donate one hundred percent of profits from the STORSTOMMA bag to the important work being carried out by local LGBT+ initiatives , charities and causes that have been chosen by IKEA stores across the UK and Ireland .
”

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IKEA will be selling an LGBT+ rainbow flag version of its iconic blue FRAKTA bag to celebrate the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia – which takes place this Sunday 17 May – and LGBT+ Pride month in June.
The bag, which will cost £1.50, will be available online from Friday 15 May. One hundred percent of the profits made will be distributed to support local LGBT+ initiatives, charities and causes chosen by IKEA stores across the UK and Ireland, to ensure funds are directed to those from the LGBT+ community who need them most.
IKEA recognises that in a time when we are confined to our houses but perhaps not our homes, LGBT+ people risk being more stigmatised, discriminated and isolated than ever before.
The special edition bag aims to promote standing up against discrimination of the LGBT+ community and promoting equal rights on 17 May and every day.
Through the retailer’s IDAHOBIT campaign, IKEA is encouraging its co-workers and customers to ‘be someone’s home’, spreading the message that everyone can provide a safe and welcoming space for the LGBT+ community to feel at home.
Peter Jelkeby, Country Retail Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA UK and Ireland, commented: “At IKEA, our culture is centred on the value of togetherness. We believe equality is a human right and that everyone deserves a home where they can be themselves.
“We know that lockdown will disproportionately effect the LGBT+ community. With many isolated from their support networks, and with Pride celebrations postponed, it has never been more important to show our support and encourage everyone to provide a safe and welcoming space for members of the LGBT+ community and ‘be someone’s home’.
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“We will donate one hundred percent of profits from the STORSTOMMA bag to the important work being carried out by local LGBT+ initiatives, charities and causes that have been chosen by IKEA stores across the UK and Ireland.”


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Undercover sting at newsagents as it sold alcopops to girl in Brum

A Birmingham newsagents which sold two bottles of alcopops to a 15-year-old girl will face a review hearing .
Two female volunteers aged 14 and 15 were sent in by Trading Standards officers to buy alcohol from Brooklyn News in Birdbrook Road , Great Barr , in February .
A report to one of the city council ’ s licensing sub-committees states the 15-year-old volunteer was sold two bottles of WKD Blue , a pre-mixed vodka drink with 4 per cent alcohol by volume ( ABV ) , for £5.98 .
Paramjit Singh , the shop ’ s licence holder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , did not ask for the customer ’ s ID despite her being three years under the legal drinking age , the report states .
Officers witnessed the sale and afterwards told Mr Singh the sale would be reported .
The account from Trading Standards says he had personally been advised against selling alcohol and tobacco to under 18-year-olds .
Officers have now called on the licensing sub-committee to impose stricter conditions on the shop ’ s licence at its online hearing on May 18 .
These include a “ Challenge 25 ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and record keeping , the use of a refusals register and CCTV .
The report from enforcement officer Naseem Shamas says : “ Although there had been no recent complaints , the sale of alcohol to persons under the age of 18 is a serious offence under The Licensing Act 2003 .
“ It can have serious consequences when it gets into the hands of young people .
“ It can make them vulnerable and put them in compromising situations as well as causing serious health issues if taken in excess .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making the sale to the volunteer ; this was done by Mr Paramjit Singh .
“ As the premises licence holder ( PLH ) and the DPS , he should have known better.
” West Midlands Police has stated it supports the application for the review .
A letter from PC Abdool Rohomon said : `` The grounds for the review application appear serious in their nature .
`` The sale of alcohol to minors is a serious issue , especially to the health and well-being of the child .
`` It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that conducted the sale was in fact both the DPS and the PLH .
`` This is especially concerning as being both the DPS and PLH this person has ultimate control over the premises both in terms of the sale of alcohol and how it is run . ''
The shop has submitted documents to the sub-committee including proposed conditions to be added to the licence , such as “ Challenge 25 ” posters to be placed on the front door .
The shop ’ s licence review will be held by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an online hearing at 10am on May 18 , which can be viewed at : civico.net/birmingham

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A Birmingham newsagents which sold two bottles of alcopops to a 15-year-old girl will face a review hearing.
Two female volunteers aged 14 and 15 were sent in by Trading Standards officers to buy alcohol from Brooklyn News in Birdbrook Road, Great Barr, in February.
A report to one of the city council’s licensing sub-committees states the 15-year-old volunteer was sold two bottles of WKD Blue, a pre-mixed vodka drink with 4 per cent alcohol by volume (ABV), for £5.98.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Paramjit Singh, the shop’s licence holder and designated premises supervisor (DPS), did not ask for the customer’s ID despite her being three years under the legal drinking age, the report states.
Officers witnessed the sale and afterwards told Mr Singh the sale would be reported.
The account from Trading Standards says he had personally been advised against selling alcohol and tobacco to under 18-year-olds.
Officers have now called on the licensing sub-committee to impose stricter conditions on the shop’s licence at its online hearing on May 18.
These include a “Challenge 25” proof of age scheme, staff training and record keeping, the use of a refusals register and CCTV.
The report from enforcement officer Naseem Shamas says: “ Although there had been no recent complaints, the sale of alcohol to persons under the age of 18 is a serious offence under The Licensing Act 2003.
“It can have serious consequences when it gets into the hands of young people.
“It can make them vulnerable and put them in compromising situations as well as causing serious health issues if taken in excess.
“There is no excuse at all for making the sale to the volunteer; this was done by Mr Paramjit Singh.
“As the premises licence holder (PLH) and the DPS, he should have known better.”
West Midlands Police has stated it supports the application for the review.
A letter from PC Abdool Rohomon said: "The grounds for the review application appear serious in their nature.
"The sale of alcohol to minors is a serious issue, especially to the health and well-being of the child.
"It is noted in this case that the person that conducted the sale was in fact both the DPS and the PLH.
Get email updates with the latest Politics news This newsletter will bring you a brief round-up of the best, most important or simply quirky stories that have been hitting the headlines over the past few days in the world of politics across Birmingham and the West Midlands. To subscribe click on the link, tick the politics box and enter your email address.
"This is especially concerning as being both the DPS and PLH this person has ultimate control over the premises both in terms of the sale of alcohol and how it is run."
The shop has submitted documents to the sub-committee including proposed conditions to be added to the licence, such as “Challenge 25” posters to be placed on the front door.
The shop’s licence review will be held by the council’s licensing sub-committee A at an online hearing at 10am on May 18, which can be viewed at: civico.net/birmingham


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Monty Don breaks silence on dog Nigel's death in heartbreaking radio speech

Monty Don has paid tribute to dog Nigel after the golden retriever 's sad death .
The star of BBC Two 's Gardeners ' World regularly featured the beloved pooch while filming the show .
The dog even lent his name to Don 's book Nigel : My Family And Other Dogs .
Earlier this week the presenter revealed Nigel had died after he was taken ill and is now buried with `` lots of tennis balls '' .
Don told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme today : `` I think if you suffer from any kind of mental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anxiety or whatever , having someone to look after , who returns that attention with completely unqualified love , is very powerful , it 's powerful medicine .
`` There 's just the basics - if you have a dog you have to take it for a walk , which means you have to go outside , you have to put your boots on and put a coat on and as anybody listening knows , when you are depressed , you do n't do any of that .
`` If you get out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ badly , you do n't do what you 're supposed to do , you do n't do what you want to do because you do n't really want to do anything and so on and so forth , so having a dog that needs food and water and a walk and attention and who just loves you is extraordinary .
`` At the moment there is sort of a simmering level of anxiety and people are being very brave and they 're resourceful and extraordinary but at the same time everybody is scared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my case dogs , leaven that , they hold it steady , they tie you to a better reality .
`` I think for all of us that happens and I think for millions of people who watch Gardeners ' World , clearly Nigel was part of that . ''
Don added : `` He was a member of our family and there 's a great big Nigel-shaped hole in our lives .
`` But he was 12 , he had a lovely life .
His death was shocking for us but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went for a walk and he ate and he was just super .
`` It was just a lovely day and I think we were blessed .
I 've had lots of dogs and I hope I have more but that one relationship lightened our lives and we were lucky , we were really , really lucky . ''
He continued : `` He was a bear of slightly limited brain , what he had was this absolute sense of purity .
He exuded a kind of unsullied innocence and we all love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is special , I 've had lots of dogs and there was something special about Nigel .
`` It 's really hard to put your finger on it .
Apart from that , he loved the limelight , we never wanted really to include him in Gardeners ' World but he always found the light , he always found the spot .
`` He would come out with me in the morning at half past seven and just stay with me all day , and wait for his call and then just steal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single time . ''

Monty Don has paid tribute to dog Nigel after the golden retriever's sad death.
The star of BBC Two's Gardeners' World regularly featured the beloved pooch while filming the show.
The dog even lent his name to Don's book Nigel: My Family And Other Dogs.
Earlier this week the presenter revealed Nigel had died after he was taken ill and is now buried with "lots of tennis balls".
Don told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme today: "I think if you suffer from any kind of mental illness, whether be it depression or anxiety or whatever, having someone to look after, who returns that attention with completely unqualified love, is very powerful, it's powerful medicine.
"There's just the basics - if you have a dog you have to take it for a walk, which means you have to go outside, you have to put your boots on and put a coat on and as anybody listening knows, when you are depressed, you don't do any of that.
"If you get out of bed you just sort of eat badly, you don't do what you're supposed to do, you don't do what you want to do because you don't really want to do anything and so on and so forth, so having a dog that needs food and water and a walk and attention and who just loves you is extraordinary.
"At the moment there is sort of a simmering level of anxiety and people are being very brave and they're resourceful and extraordinary but at the same time everybody is scared and anxious and pets, and in my case dogs, leaven that, they hold it steady, they tie you to a better reality.
"I think for all of us that happens and I think for millions of people who watch Gardeners' World, clearly Nigel was part of that."
Don added: "He was a member of our family and there's a great big Nigel-shaped hole in our lives.
"But he was 12, he had a lovely life. His death was shocking for us but it was quick and his last day we went for a walk and he ate and he was just super.
"It was just a lovely day and I think we were blessed. I've had lots of dogs and I hope I have more but that one relationship lightened our lives and we were lucky, we were really, really lucky."
He continued: "He was a bear of slightly limited brain, what he had was this absolute sense of purity. He exuded a kind of unsullied innocence and we all love our dogs, everybody thinks their dog is special, I've had lots of dogs and there was something special about Nigel.
"It's really hard to put your finger on it. Apart from that, he loved the limelight, we never wanted really to include him in Gardeners' World but he always found the light, he always found the spot.
"He would come out with me in the morning at half past seven and just stay with me all day, and wait for his call and then just steal the scene, every time, every single time."


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Police told they have no power to enforce two-metre lockdown rule

Police have been told they have no powers to enforce two-metre social distancing in England .
Fresh guidelines issued by the College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs ' Council urges officers to only enforce what is written in law , adding that `` Government guidance is not enforceable , for example two-metre distancing , avoiding public transport or the wearing of face coverings in enclosed spaces '' .
The advice , set out in a document published on Wednesday after being sent out to forces on Tuesday night , follows updated legislation coming into force .
Neither the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) ( England ) Regulations 2020 from March 26 nor the amendment enacted at 12.01am on Wednesday address social distancing specifically , so keeping two metres apart in certain circumstances is not a legal requirement .
The National Police Chiefs Council and the College of Policing has put out updated guidance for officers in England and Wales .
The changes to the law means officers in England 'have no power to enforce two-metre distancing ' .
Whereas officers in Wales , where the lockdown remains strict , 'two-metre distancing is enforceable ' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a last resort ' and suggests officers employ a four-step escalation process of 'engage , explain , encourage , enforce ' .
From today in England people can meet one friend or family member from outside their household but are being told to stay 2m away at all times .
Neither the original Health Protection ( Coronavirus , Restrictions ) ( England ) Regulations 2020 from March 26 nor the amended enacted at 12.01am on Wednesday address social distancing specifically , so keeping two metres ( 6ft ) apart in certain circumstances is @ @ @ @ @

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Police have been told they have no powers to enforce two-metre social distancing in England.
Fresh guidelines issued by the College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs' Council urges officers to only enforce what is written in law, adding that "Government guidance is not enforceable, for example two-metre distancing, avoiding public transport or the wearing of face coverings in enclosed spaces".
The advice, set out in a document published on Wednesday after being sent out to forces on Tuesday night, follows updated legislation coming into force.
Neither the original Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 from March 26 nor the amendment enacted at 12.01am on Wednesday address social distancing specifically, so keeping two metres apart in certain circumstances is not a legal requirement.
The National Police Chiefs Council and the College of Policing has put out updated guidance for officers in England and Wales.
The changes to the law means officers in England 'have no power to enforce two-metre distancing'.
Whereas officers in Wales, where the lockdown remains strict, 'two-metre distancing is enforceable'.
The guidance makes clear that 'enforcement is a last resort' and suggests officers employ a four-step escalation process of 'engage, explain, encourage, enforce'.
From today in England people can meet one friend or family member from outside their household but are being told to stay 2m away at all times.
Neither the original Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 from March 26 nor the amended enacted at 12.01am on Wednesday address social distancing specifically, so keeping two metres (6ft) apart in certain circumstances is not a legal requirement.


birminghammail--2020-05-13--Walsall man wanted following serious assault

An investigation has been launched to find a Walsall man following a serious assault .
Police have appealed for help to find Christopher Goddard , from Willenhall , after a man was seriously assaulted , the force told BlackCountryLive .
West Midlands Police has released an image of the 25-year-old , who is wanted on suspicion of wounding , following the attack last month .
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community , join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area .
A spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you have any information on Christopher Goddard ?
`` The 25-year-old from Willenhall in Walsall is wanted on suspicion of wounding after a man was seriously assaulted last month . ''
Anyone with information should contact West Midlands Police , quoting crime reference 20WS/87829T/20 .
According to the West Midlands Police website , an assault is where a person intentionally or recklessly uses unlawful force against someone else .
Assaults are usually categorised by the injuries caused .
Common assault , actual bodily harm ( ABH ) and grievous bodily harm ( GBH @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a range of injuries from bruises or scratches through to life threatening injuries .
However an assault can take place even if no force is used .
If someone threatens to assault you , but there is no physical violence , then the threats alone could be enough for this to be considered an assault .
If someone intentionally spits at you then this may also be an assault .

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An investigation has been launched to find a Walsall man following a serious assault.
Police have appealed for help to find Christopher Goddard, from Willenhall, after a man was seriously assaulted, the force told BlackCountryLive.
West Midlands Police has released an image of the 25-year-old, who is wanted on suspicion of wounding, following the attack last month.
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area.
A spokesman for the force said: "Do you have any information on Christopher Goddard?
"The 25-year-old from Willenhall in Walsall is wanted on suspicion of wounding after a man was seriously assaulted last month."
Anyone with information should contact West Midlands Police, quoting crime reference 20WS/87829T/20.
What is assault?
According to the West Midlands Police website, an assault is where a person intentionally or recklessly uses unlawful force against someone else.
Assaults are usually categorised by the injuries caused.
Common assault, actual bodily harm (ABH) and grievous bodily harm (GBH) are all criminal offences and cover a range of injuries from bruises or scratches through to life threatening injuries.
However an assault can take place even if no force is used.
If someone threatens to assault you, but there is no physical violence, then the threats alone could be enough for this to be considered an assault.
If someone intentionally spits at you then this may also be an assault.