birminghammail--2020-02-20--Family's tribute to Wolverhampton firefighter Andrew Moore who was found dead at station

The heartbroken daughter of a firefighter found dead at Wolverhampton fire station has paid tribute to her `` loving daddy '' .
Fifty-year-old Andrew Moore was found inside the station following a night shift on Sunday , February 16 after taking his own life .
The former soldier , who had proudly worked as a firefighter for more than 25 years , had been part of Red Watch for West Midlands Fire Service ( WMFS ) .
His heartbroken daughter Grace paid tribute in a moving Facebook post following the tragedy , writing : `` I have no words .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ me for this pain .
`` I will continue to shine your light forever more , my beautiful , kind , courageous and loving daddy . ''
Andrew 's sister Cathy Green described her brother as `` funny '' and `` quick witted '' but also as someone who `` struggled with daily life '' , reports the Mirror .
She posted a picture of Andrew on Facebook and told how he `` did n't feel any joy in life '' despite knowing he was `` loved and supported '' by family and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brother 'is ' firefighter Andrew Moore .
Every day I am proud to call him my brother .
`` As a 19-year-old soldier he put his career on hold to look after our mum and young brothers after the untimely death of our Dad aged just 50 .
`` After leaving the army Andy joined the fire service .
''Every day I was in awe of the courage and selflessness of him and other firefighters who walked into danger to rescue others and attend road traffic accidents and other traumatic events to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sons , husbands , fathers and brothers .
`` He was kind and generous with his time , loving and open about his feelings .
`` He was funny , so funny , he was quick witted , an amazing mimic and full of mischief .
`` But every day Andy felt lost , he struggled with daily life .
`` He said he did n't feel any joy in life , his was all a pretence . ''
She added : `` Andy knew he was loved and supported and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But we could n't fix him and we could n't make him stay .
`` I have never known despair so deep that I feel oblivion is a better option .
`` To all those who have been left behind by either family or a friend who has taken the decision to end their own suffering my heart breaks for you .
`` I will miss my brother every day and wish his life had been of more value and joy to him - because it was to us .
`` Rest in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' A minute 's silence was observed by members of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority in memory of Mr Moore at the start of Monday morning ’ s headquarters meeting .
Chief Fire Officer Phil Loach said : “ Andrew ’ s death has come as a great shock to the entire service .
Where to get help if you 're feeling suicidal Samaritans ( 116 123 ) samaritans.org operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year .
If you prefer to write down how you ’ re feeling , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being overheard on the phone , you can email Samaritans at jo @ samaritans.org , write to Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK , PO Box 9090 , STIRLING , FK8 2SA and visit www.samaritans.org/branches to find your nearest branch .
CALM ( 0800 58 58 58 ) thecalmzone.net has a helpline is for men who are down or have hit a wall for any reason , who need to talk or find information and support .
They 're open 5pm to midnight , 365 days a year .
Childline ( 0800 1111 ) runs a helpline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK .
Calls are free and the number won ’ t show up on your phone bill .
PAPYRUS ( 0800 068 41 41 ) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal .
Depression Alliance is a charity for people with depression .
It doesn ’ t have a helpline , but offers a wide range of useful resources and links to other relevant information depressionalliance.org Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed , have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both children and adults affected by bullying studentsagainstdepression.org The Sanctuary ( 0300 003 7029 ) helps people who are struggling to cope - experiencing depression , anxiety , panic attacks or in crisis .
You can call them between 8pm and 6am every night.There are other depression charities .
`` Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family , friends and colleagues .
“ One of our senior officers informed Andrew ’ s family of his death .
We will continue to provide them with all the support they need at this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service in September 1993 and transferred to the West Midlands in May 1996 .
Flags at fire service sites were being flown at half mast on Monday .
Authority chairman councillor Greg Brackenridge said : “ Our thoughts are very much with Andrew ’ s family .
I know that his death has affected many people , within and outside of the service .
We will ensure that we do all we can for those who need support.
” Matt Wrack , Fire Brigade Union general secretary , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to learn of the loss of our member Andrew Moore .
`` His sudden , tragic death is a shock to all of us in the Fire Brigades Union .
`` Our thoughts are with his family , friends , and colleagues at this difficult time .
“ The circumstances of Brother Moore ’ s death are extremely upsetting and we encourage firefighters and control staff to speak to their colleagues and comrades if they are in any way affected .
`` We are working hard to better understand the impact of firefighting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever feel there is no other way out.
” *If you are experiencing mental health problems , feeling suicidal , or are concerned about someone else , support is available .
Speak with your GP , who can refer into appropriate local services , contact the Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline on 0808 800 2234 for out-of-hours support , or call the Samaritans on 116 123 for a listening ear 24 hours a day , 365 days a year .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Rosaleen Fenton, Katie Brooks)

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The heartbroken daughter of a firefighter found dead at Wolverhampton fire station has paid tribute to her "loving daddy".
Fifty-year-old Andrew Moore was found inside the station following a night shift on Sunday, February 16 after taking his own life.
The former soldier, who had proudly worked as a firefighter for more than 25 years, had been part of Red Watch for West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS).
His heartbroken daughter Grace paid tribute in a moving Facebook post following the tragedy, writing: "I have no words. There was nothing that could have prepared me for this pain.
"I will continue to shine your light forever more, my beautiful, kind, courageous and loving daddy."
Andrew's sister Cathy Green described her brother as ''funny'' and ''quick witted'' but also as someone who ''struggled with daily life'', reports the Mirror.
She posted a picture of Andrew on Facebook and told how he ''didn't feel any joy in life'' despite knowing he was ''loved and supported'' by family and friends.
She wrote: "My brother 'is' firefighter Andrew Moore. Every day I am proud to call him my brother.
"As a 19-year-old soldier he put his career on hold to look after our mum and young brothers after the untimely death of our Dad aged just 50.
"After leaving the army Andy joined the fire service.
''Every day I was in awe of the courage and selflessness of him and other firefighters who walked into danger to rescue others and attend road traffic accidents and other traumatic events to help strangers.
"Andy was the best of sons,husbands, fathers and brothers.
"He was kind and generous with his time, loving and open about his feelings.
"He was funny, so funny, he was quick witted, an amazing mimic and full of mischief.
"But every day Andy felt lost, he struggled with daily life.
"He said he didn't feel any joy in life, his was all a pretence."
She added: "Andy knew he was loved and supported and we knew he loved us back.
"But we couldn't fix him and we couldn't make him stay.
"I have never known despair so deep that I feel oblivion is a better option.
"To all those who have been left behind by either family or a friend who has taken the decision to end their own suffering my heart breaks for you.
"I will miss my brother every day and wish his life had been of more value and joy to him - because it was to us.
"Rest in peace my wonderful funny little brother."
A minute's silence was observed by members of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority in memory of Mr Moore at the start of Monday morning’s headquarters meeting.
Chief Fire Officer Phil Loach said: “Andrew’s death has come as a great shock to the entire service.
Where to get help if you're feeling suicidal Samaritans (116 123) samaritans.org operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org , write to Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK, PO Box 9090, STIRLING, FK8 2SA and visit www.samaritans.org/branches to find your nearest branch. CALM (0800 58 58 58) thecalmzone.net has a helpline is for men who are down or have hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support. They're open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year. Childline (0800 1111 ) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.
PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal. Other depression charities
Depression Alliance is a charity for people with depression. It doesn’t have a helpline, but offers a wide range of useful resources and links to other relevant information depressionalliance.org
Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts. Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying studentsagainstdepression.org
The Sanctuary (0300 003 7029 ) helps people who are struggling to cope - experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks or in crisis. You can call them between 8pm and 6am every night.There are other depression charities.
"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and colleagues.
“One of our senior officers informed Andrew’s family of his death. We will continue to provide them with all the support they need at this very difficult time.”
Mr Moore joined North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service in September 1993 and transferred to the West Midlands in May 1996.
Flags at fire service sites were being flown at half mast on Monday.
Authority chairman councillor Greg Brackenridge said: “Our thoughts are very much with Andrew’s family. I know that his death has affected many people, within and outside of the service. We will ensure that we do all we can for those who need support.”
Matt Wrack, Fire Brigade Union general secretary, said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of our member Andrew Moore.
"His sudden, tragic death is a shock to all of us in the Fire Brigades Union.
"Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues at this difficult time.
“The circumstances of Brother Moore’s death are extremely upsetting and we encourage firefighters and control staff to speak to their colleagues and comrades if they are in any way affected.
"We are working hard to better understand the impact of firefighting on mental health. No one should ever feel there is no other way out.”
*If you are experiencing mental health problems, feeling suicidal, or are concerned about someone else, support is available. Speak with your GP, who can refer into appropriate local services, contact the Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline on 0808 800 2234 for out-of-hours support, or call the Samaritans on 116 123 for a listening ear 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Medics called to Owen Road in Willenhall  following 'reports of concern for woman's welfare'

A woman sparked fears for her safety after she was spotted ‘ at height ’ .
Emergency services were called to Owen Road in Willenhall just before 9am today ( Thursday , February 20 ) after receiving calls from concerned members of the public .
Medics were able to help the woman down to safety and she was assessed at the scene .
She was later taken to hospital for further assessment .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance told Black Country Live : `` We were called at 8.51am to reports of concern for a patient ’ s welfare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One ambulance and a paramedic officer attended the scene .
On arrival we discovered one patient , a woman at height .
`` Once brought to safety , the patient was assessed by ambulance staff before being taken to hospital . ''
A spokesman for West Midlands Police confirmed officers were also in attendance following reports of a `` concern for safety '' .
If you are experiencing mental health problems , feeling suicidal , or are concerned about someone else , support is available .
Speak with your GP , who can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline on 0808 800 2234 for out-of-hours support , or call the Samaritans on 116 123 for a listening ear 24 hours a day , 365 days a year .

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A woman sparked fears for her safety after she was spotted ‘at height’.
Emergency services were called to Owen Road in Willenhall just before 9am today (Thursday, February 20) after receiving calls from concerned members of the public.
Medics were able to help the woman down to safety and she was assessed at the scene.
She was later taken to hospital for further assessment.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance told Black Country Live: "We were called at 8.51am to reports of concern for a patient’s welfare on Owen Road, Willenhall.
“One ambulance and a paramedic officer attended the scene. On arrival we discovered one patient, a woman at height.
"Once brought to safety, the patient was assessed by ambulance staff before being taken to hospital."
A spokesman for West Midlands Police confirmed officers were also in attendance following reports of a "concern for safety".
If you are experiencing mental health problems, feeling suicidal, or are concerned about someone else, support is available.
Speak with your GP, who can refer into appropriate local services, contact the Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline on 0808 800 2234 for out-of-hours support, or call the Samaritans on 116 123 for a listening ear 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Southampton without three key players for Aston Villa clash

Southampton will be without three first-team players for Saturday ’ s big clash against Aston Villa .
The club confirmed today ( Thursday ) that Sofiane Boufal , Nathan Redmond and Kyle Walker-Peters are all set to miss the game .
Walker-Peters made his debut in the weekend defeat at home to Burnley , having joined on loan from Tottenham Hotspur until the end of the season .
But the full-back picked up a calf injury and has not trained with the squad this week .
“ It ’ s not that bad but he couldn ’ t train this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily Echo .
“ Hopefully he is back next week.
” Attacking pair Redmond and Boufal will also miss out .
Redmond missed the Burnley defeat , with Boufal taking his place in the starting 11 – only to limp off in the first half .
“ Reddy is out but we still don ’ t know for how long .
It will be a minimum of one month , ” said Hasenhuttl .
“ Then we have Sofiane who hasn ’ t trained this week but is a little bit ahead of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the weekend .
“ He has problems with his heel and foot .
I think it ’ s possible for him to start [ training ] next week .
”

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Southampton will be without three first-team players for Saturday’s big clash against Aston Villa.
The club confirmed today (Thursday) that Sofiane Boufal, Nathan Redmond and Kyle Walker-Peters are all set to miss the game.
Walker-Peters made his debut in the weekend defeat at home to Burnley, having joined on loan from Tottenham Hotspur until the end of the season.
But the full-back picked up a calf injury and has not trained with the squad this week.
“It’s not that bad but he couldn’t train this week,” Hasenhuttl told the Southern Daily Echo. “Hopefully he is back next week.”
Attacking pair Redmond and Boufal will also miss out.
Redmond missed the Burnley defeat, with Boufal taking his place in the starting 11 – only to limp off in the first half.
“Reddy is out but we still don’t know for how long. It will be a minimum of one month,” said Hasenhuttl.
“It’s the worst injury.
“Then we have Sofiane who hasn’t trained this week but is a little bit ahead of the schedule but would be tough for the weekend.
“He has problems with his heel and foot. I think it’s possible for him to start [training] next week.”


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Thug Lee Abbott guilty of murdering pub landlord Christian Thornton after stabbing him 11 times

A man who stabbed a pub landlord 11 times after being banned from the has been found guilty of his murder .
Lee Abbott , 35 , was convicted of murdering father-of-three Christian Thornton , 49 , at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday .
The trial , which lasted almost two weeks , heard Abbott was armed with a large kitchen knife when he went to the Hammer and Pincers pub in Widnes on August 11 last year .
The kickboxer had been barred from all pubs in the area for 12 months as part of the PubWatch scheme after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down .
The jury was told Mr Thornton was on the phone to police to report Abbott when he stabbed him 11 times in the space of 21 seconds .
Witness David Johnson told police : `` There was no stopping him , he just ran like a mad man . ''
Abbott , of Rose Street , Widnes , was arrested about an hour later by armed police at his friends 's house nearby .
He told officers : `` You do n't need any evidence , I stabbed him to f*** @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murder on the grounds he did not have the intent to murder as he was heavily intoxicated and had diminished responsibility on the basis of an abnormality of mental functioning .
The jury was told he was sexually abused by a gangster when he was a teenager .
His estranged wife Kerri Abbott told the court Abbott had believed he was Jesus and had episodes where he would `` lose touch with reality '' .
Detective Inspector Kate Tomlinson said : `` Abbott 's actions that day have torn a family apart and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a well-known character locally , he did so much for local charities and will be greatly missed by many .
`` Before the incident Abbott had the opportunity to walk away , but instead he made a conscious decision to return and attack Christian , which ultimately resulted in his death .
`` This has left three children without their father , and his wife , Pam , has lost a loving husband .
Abbott 's family gasped in the public gllaery of the court when the verdict was announced .
Abbott @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Eleanor Barlow, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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A man who stabbed a pub landlord 11 times after being banned from the has been found guilty of his murder.
Lee Abbott, 35, was convicted of murdering father-of-three Christian Thornton, 49, at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday.
The trial, which lasted almost two weeks, heard Abbott was armed with a large kitchen knife when he went to the Hammer and Pincers pub in Widnes on August 11 last year.
The kickboxer had been barred from all pubs in the area for 12 months as part of the PubWatch scheme after threatening to burn Mr Thornton's premises down.
The jury was told Mr Thornton was on the phone to police to report Abbott when he stabbed him 11 times in the space of 21 seconds.
Witness David Johnson told police: "There was no stopping him, he just ran like a mad man."
Abbott, of Rose Street, Widnes, was arrested about an hour later by armed police at his friends's house nearby.
He told officers: "You don't need any evidence, I stabbed him to f***."
Abbott admitted manslaughter but denied murder on the grounds he did not have the intent to murder as he was heavily intoxicated and had diminished responsibility on the basis of an abnormality of mental functioning.
The jury was told he was sexually abused by a gangster when he was a teenager.
His estranged wife Kerri Abbott told the court Abbott had believed he was Jesus and had episodes where he would "lose touch with reality".
Detective Inspector Kate Tomlinson said: "Abbott's actions that day have torn a family apart and rocked the local community.
"Christian was a well-known character locally, he did so much for local charities and will be greatly missed by many.
"Before the incident Abbott had the opportunity to walk away, but instead he made a conscious decision to return and attack Christian, which ultimately resulted in his death.
"This has left three children without their father, and his wife, Pam, has lost a loving husband. Abbott's family gasped in the public gllaery of the court when the verdict was announced.
Abbott is due to be sentenced on Friday.


birminghammail--2020-02-20--10 common jobs that are 'low-skilled' according to UK's new immigration rules

The Home Office 's proposed skills criteria and salary threshold for overseas workers has sparked a fierce backlash .
Those classified as `` unskilled '' and those earning below £25,600 will no longer be allowed to work in the UK .
The Home Secretary has hit back at business critics of the Government 's newly announced immigration system , though .
Priti Patel said industries relying on a migrant workforce should look closer to home when recruiting new employees .
The Cabinet minister said it was `` ridiculous '' to suggest the Home Office was putting the brakes entirely on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers could come to the UK as long as they were sponsored by an employer and met the points-based criteria , including earning at least £25,600 in skilled professions , as part of changes that will come into force next year .
The changes , announced on Tuesday , are designed to cut the number of low-skilled migrants entering Britain but aim to make it easier for higher-skilled workers to get UK visas .
A policy statement outlining a new points-based system after freedom of movement ends said the economy needs to move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ labour from Europe '' .
The salary threshold for skilled migrants will be lowered to £25,600 for those coming to the UK with a job offer , and there may be concessions for those earning no less than £20,480 as long as they still meet certain requirements or their occupation is short of staff .
The Confederation of British Industry warned that care , construction , hospitality and food and drink companies could be most affected by the changes .
Industry and union leaders hit out at the lack of provision for low-paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ten jobs that are 'low-skilled ' , according to Priti Patel 's new immigration rules :

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The Home Office's proposed skills criteria and salary threshold for overseas workers has sparked a fierce backlash.
Those classified as "unskilled" and those earning below £25,600 will no longer be allowed to work in the UK.
The Home Secretary has hit back at business critics of the Government's newly announced immigration system, though.
Priti Patel said industries relying on a migrant workforce should look closer to home when recruiting new employees.
The Cabinet minister said it was "ridiculous" to suggest the Home Office was putting the brakes entirely on businesses recruiting from abroad.
She said workers could come to the UK as long as they were sponsored by an employer and met the points-based criteria, including earning at least £25,600 in skilled professions, as part of changes that will come into force next year.
The changes, announced on Tuesday, are designed to cut the number of low-skilled migrants entering Britain but aim to make it easier for higher-skilled workers to get UK visas.
A policy statement outlining a new points-based system after freedom of movement ends said the economy needs to move away from a reliance on "cheap labour from Europe".
The salary threshold for skilled migrants will be lowered to £25,600 for those coming to the UK with a job offer, and there may be concessions for those earning no less than £20,480 as long as they still meet certain requirements or their occupation is short of staff.
The Confederation of British Industry warned that care, construction, hospitality and food and drink companies could be most affected by the changes.
Industry and union leaders hit out at the lack of provision for low-paid workers in the proposals.
Here are ten jobs that are 'low-skilled', according to Priti Patel's new immigration rules:
Carer - £12,500 average salary
Phlebotomist - £20,015 average salary
Construction workers - £15,000 average salary
Radiographer - £24,000 average salary
Occupational therapist - £24,414 starting salary
Farm hands/fruit pickers/animal herders - £14,000 average salary
Hotel cleaning staff - £11,500 average salary
Physiotherapist - £22,000 starting salary
Paramedic - £24,000 starting salary
Freelance writers - Unconfirmed salary


birminghammail--2020-02-20--ADVERTORIAL: Win a dream holiday for two in The Gambia for seven nights

Dream of escaping the storms lashing Britain for some winter sun ?
This is your chance to win a seven day holiday for two with glorious weather and warm temperatures in The Gambia .
The Gambia Experience specialises in creating memorable package holidays for travellers with direct flights from Birmingham Airport - and is offering a lucky reader the chance to take this trip for free .
Flying from Birmingham Airport , our lucky winner and their guest will spend seven nights in a fabulous hotel or resort offered by The Gambia Experience , with a minimum grade of 3.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ properties on offer here Known as the `` smiling coast of Africa '' , The Gambia is ideal for everything from a relaxing beach break to an adventure of a lifetime spotting stunning exotic wildlife .
It offers an exciting holiday for anyone looking for a last-minute break or unspoilt luxury .
You can fly direct from Birmingham Airport until April 8 .
For a chance to win , all you have to do is answer the question and fill out your details in the form below before midnight on Sunday , March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for two in The Gambia - flying from Birmingham Airport before April 8 .
Here are 10 reasons why The Gambia is the perfect holiday for some winter sun .
With a sub-tropical climate , temperatures reach around 35 degrees from November to May - with little chance of rain .
It makes The Gambia a hot spot for sun-seekers all day long .
Due to its dry season , between October and June , it has more guaranteed sun and warmer weather during the winter months than European destinations , like The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gambia 's coastline runs 80km along West Africa with long stretches of golden beaches , where you can watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean .
The most popular resorts are based in the larger towns of Kololi and Kotu , boasting a wealth of restaurants , bars and sporting activities .
Kololi is even famous for `` The Strip '' with its lively nightclubs , shops and international restaurants .
If you prefer somewhere quieter , but still with sandy beaches and palm trees , there are relaxing resorts like Brufut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remote beaches an idyllic romantic spot to wander hand in hand , barefoot in the sand .
These are ideal for those who like to chill out between exploring , with a range of memorable excursions to take and activities nearby to keep visitors entertained .
For a journey into somewhere totally unique , there is Makasutu - a 1000-acre tropical reserve with five different ecosystems from a gallery forest to savannah , mangroves , palm forest and wetland .
The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays to The Gambia to suit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see their latest holiday deals .
To be in with a chance of winning our competition to enjoy a holiday for two in The Gambia for seven nights simply answer the question and fill out your details in the form below before midnight on Sunday March 1 .
Win a seven night holiday for two in The Gambia - flying from Birmingham Airport before April 8 .
3 .
Something to suit every budget From luxury grade 5 hotels to budget stays and unique lodges , The Gambia Experience caters for all kinds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to The Gambia .
Travellers can also opt to do a twin centre holiday , making the most of their trip by experiencing different resorts .
Ngala Lodge offers boutique luxury right on the beach with fine dining , immaculate gardens and an infinity pool looking out over the ocean .
There 's also Coco Ocean Resort and Spa to indulge in utter luxury while rejuvenating in the exquisite spa .
Beachfront hotels include Palm Beach Hotel , the African Princess and Senegambia Hotel , which all provide value for money stays - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without breaking the bank .
For a more unique experience , try the distinctive and peaceful Mandina Lodges .
Hidden in the African bush , the Lodges lie on the waters edge of a mangrove-lined tributary of the River Gambia and provide an unforgettable riverside retreat .
Birdwatchers may be more interested in Tanji Bird Reserve Eco-Lodge .
This special hotel features four simple lodges and fresh water pools to attract wildlife .
Set in the Tanji Bird Reserve , it is a community-based project offering en-suite facilities but with a focus on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over 100 chimpanzees in their own habitat for a once-in-a-lifetime stay at the Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp in Kudang .
Stay in a safari tent at a fully-serviced camp featuring a waterhouse for meals and outside private showers , deep in the heart of River Gambia National Park .
On top of that , there 's all inclusive deals to choose from , if you prefer a hotel-based holiday .
Spend time on the beach , enjoy entertainment and activities laid on by the hotel and know that all local drinks and buffet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunbeach Hotel in Cape Point , Labranda Coral Beach Hotel and Spa in Brufut and Sunset Beach Hotel in Kotu .
The Gambia Experience package holidays start from just £499 per person in its holiday deals to The Gambia .
The Gambia is n't as far away as you may think - around six hours on a direct flight from Birmingham Airport - that 's just enough time to enjoy a meal , watch a movie and spruce yourself up before landing .
There is no time difference between the UK and The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't have to worry about jet lag .
Another bonus is that The Gambia is closer than the beaches of The Caribbean and The Maldives , so there is less time travelling and more time spent relaxing by the pool .
5 .
The official language is English Do n't worry about your requests getting lost in translation as The Gambia 's official language is English , due to it being a former British colony .
Most Gambians are bilingual as they are educated in English but there are several tribal languages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a secular country with a fascinating history and you can experience the traditions , dress and hairstyles among the tribes of the Mandinka , Wolof , Fula and Jola during your stay .
The Gambia Experience organises special excursions for holiday makers along the banks of the River Gambia , including those to meet with local tribes .
There is even a `` Roots '' excursion that looks back at the links between The Gambia , the slave trade and the famous TV series Roots .
Wander among colonial landmarks , shanty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the smallest capitals in Africa .
Spend time watching local fishermen at work or experience the vibrant markets in Bakau .
The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays to The Gambia to suit all types of travellers click here to see their latest holiday deals .
7 .
It 's great value for money Tourists see their pound go further when eating out or buying gifts as the exchange rate is around 67 Dalasi to the pound .
That means average prices include about 60p for a cup of coffee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local beer , £2.20 for a glass of wine and £35 for a three course meal for two people .
Shops love to barter so tourists can haggle for a great bargain for everything from hand-made wooden carvings to tablecloths , jewellery and sand paintings .
Package holidays with The Gambia Experience start from just £499 per person for a week , including flights , transfers and accommodation .
Travellers booking with The Gambia Experience benefit from the travel company 's expertise of the country .
They also get the choice of carefully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difference .
Popular with tourists from around the world , The Gambia offers a wide range of international cuisine .
Fussy eaters can feel reassured of the familiar , like pizzas and chips , along with international fine dining restaurants .
While those seeking something more adventurous have a host of authentic African food available .
Local Gambian dishes include Benachin , which is rice and vegetables , and Domoda , which is meat that has been stewed in groundnut puree and is served with rice .
Catch a cheeky baboon swinging from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a stunning African bird taking flight .
The Gambia is home to an ecclectic mix of memorable wildlife like no other .
Monkeys and mongoose are often spotted in Makasutu and crocodiles can be seen at the Kachikally Museum in Bakau .
With over 540 species of birds , The Gambia is also a paradise for birdwatching .
Even BBC presenter and wildlife expert Chris Packham , who visits regularly , has praised The Gambia as a top birding destination .
He 's described it as being easily accessible , affordable and packed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The smallest country on the African continent , The Gambia has gained the nickname `` the smiling coast of Africa ” for its welcoming hand of friendship to tourists .
Locals are renowned for their helpful nature and friendliness , putting visitors at ease when venturing out to shops , bars and restaurants .
Just pop to your doctors beforehand as visitors are advised to take malaria medication before travelling .
Full the latest travel advice from the UK Government , click here Do n't forget , you could win a seven night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Gambia Experience .
Just answer the question and fill out your details in the form below before midnight on Sunday March 1 .
The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays to The Gambia to suit all types of travellers click here to see their latest holiday deals .
To be in with a chance of winning our competition to enjoy a holiday for two in The Gambia for seven nights simply answer the question and fill out your details in the form below before midnight on Sunday March 1 .
Win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Gambia - flying from Birmingham Airport before April 8 .

Dream of escaping the storms lashing Britain for some winter sun?
The Gambia Experience specialises in creating memorable package holidays for travellers with direct flights from Birmingham Airport.
You can see the range of properties on offer here
Known as the "smiling coast of Africa", The Gambia is ideal for everything from a relaxing beach break to an adventure of a lifetime spotting stunning exotic wildlife.
It offers an exciting holiday for anyone looking for a last-minute break or unspoilt luxury. You can fly direct from Birmingham Airport until April 8.
Here are 10 reasons why The Gambia is the perfect holiday for some winter sun.
1. Guaranteed sun
With a sub-tropical climate, temperatures reach around 35 degrees from November to May - with little chance of rain. It makes The Gambia a hot spot for sun-seekers all day long.
Due to its dry season, between October and June, it has more guaranteed sun and warmer weather during the winter months than European destinations, like The Canary Islands or southern Spain.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
2. Glorious beaches
The Gambia's coastline runs 80km along West Africa with long stretches of golden beaches, where you can watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean.
The most popular resorts are based in the larger towns of Kololi and Kotu, boasting a wealth of restaurants, bars and sporting activities. Kololi is even famous for "The Strip" with its lively nightclubs, shops and international restaurants.
If you prefer somewhere quieter, but still with sandy beaches and palm trees, there are relaxing resorts like Brufut or Fajara.
Couples find the more remote beaches an idyllic romantic spot to wander hand in hand, barefoot in the sand.
These are ideal for those who like to chill out between exploring, with a range of memorable excursions to take and activities nearby to keep visitors entertained.
For a journey into somewhere totally unique, there is Makasutu - a 1000-acre tropical reserve with five different ecosystems from a gallery forest to savannah, mangroves, palm forest and wetland.
The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays to The Gambia to suit all types of travellers click here to see their latest holiday deals.
3. Something to suit every budget
From luxury grade 5 hotels to budget stays and unique lodges, The Gambia Experience caters for all kinds of holiday makers with its holiday deals to The Gambia.
Travellers can also opt to do a twin centre holiday, making the most of their trip by experiencing different resorts.
Ngala Lodge offers boutique luxury right on the beach with fine dining, immaculate gardens and an infinity pool looking out over the ocean. There's also Coco Ocean Resort and Spa to indulge in utter luxury while rejuvenating in the exquisite spa.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Beachfront hotels include Palm Beach Hotel, the African Princess and Senegambia Hotel, which all provide value for money stays - ideal for those who want a holiday without breaking the bank.
For a more unique experience, try the distinctive and peaceful Mandina Lodges.
Hidden in the African bush, the Lodges lie on the waters edge of a mangrove-lined tributary of the River Gambia and provide an unforgettable riverside retreat.
Birdwatchers may be more interested in Tanji Bird Reserve Eco-Lodge. This special hotel features four simple lodges and fresh water pools to attract wildlife.
Set in the Tanji Bird Reserve, it is a community-based project offering en-suite facilities but with a focus on eco living.
You can even observe over 100 chimpanzees in their own habitat for a once-in-a-lifetime stay at the Chimp Rehabilitation Project Camp in Kudang.
Stay in a safari tent at a fully-serviced camp featuring a waterhouse for meals and outside private showers, deep in the heart of River Gambia National Park.
On top of that, there's all inclusive deals to choose from, if you prefer a hotel-based holiday.
Spend time on the beach, enjoy entertainment and activities laid on by the hotel and know that all local drinks and buffet meals are already covered. Choose between Sunbeach Hotel in Cape Point, Labranda Coral Beach Hotel and Spa in Brufut and Sunset Beach Hotel in Kotu.
The Gambia Experience package holidays start from just £499 per person in its holiday deals to The Gambia.
4. It's easy to reach
The Gambia isn't as far away as you may think - around six hours on a direct flight from Birmingham Airport - that's just enough time to enjoy a meal, watch a movie and spruce yourself up before landing.
There is no time difference between the UK and The Gambia during the winter, meaning you don't have to worry about jet lag.
Another bonus is that The Gambia is closer than the beaches of The Caribbean and The Maldives, so there is less time travelling and more time spent relaxing by the pool.
5. The official language is English
Don't worry about your requests getting lost in translation as The Gambia's official language is English, due to it being a former British colony.
Most Gambians are bilingual as they are educated in English but there are several tribal languages including Mandinka and Wolof.
6. Experience African culture
The Gambia is a secular country with a fascinating history and you can experience the traditions, dress and hairstyles among the tribes of the Mandinka, Wolof, Fula and Jola during your stay.
The Gambia Experience organises special excursions for holiday makers along the banks of the River Gambia, including those to meet with local tribes.
There is even a "Roots" excursion that looks back at the links between The Gambia, the slave trade and the famous TV series Roots.
Wander among colonial landmarks, shanty buildings and modern offices in Banjul, one of the smallest capitals in Africa. Spend time watching local fishermen at work or experience the vibrant markets in Bakau.
The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays to The Gambia to suit all types of travellers click here to see their latest holiday deals.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
7. It's great value for money
Tourists see their pound go further when eating out or buying gifts as the exchange rate is around 67 Dalasi to the pound.
That means average prices include about 60p for a cup of coffee, as cheap as £1.10 for a local beer, £2.20 for a glass of wine and £35 for a three course meal for two people.
Shops love to barter so tourists can haggle for a great bargain for everything from hand-made wooden carvings to tablecloths, jewellery and sand paintings.
Package holidays with The Gambia Experience start from just £499 per person for a week, including flights, transfers and accommodation.
Travellers booking with The Gambia Experience benefit from the travel company's expertise of the country. They also get the choice of carefully selected hotels for a holiday with a difference.
8. Food to suit every taste
Popular with tourists from around the world, The Gambia offers a wide range of international cuisine.
Fussy eaters can feel reassured of the familiar, like pizzas and chips, along with international fine dining restaurants. While those seeking something more adventurous have a host of authentic African food available.
Local Gambian dishes include Benachin, which is rice and vegetables, and Domoda, which is meat that has been stewed in groundnut puree and is served with rice.
9. See unforgettable wildlife
Catch a cheeky baboon swinging from a tree, a smirking crocodile or a stunning African bird taking flight. The Gambia is home to an ecclectic mix of memorable wildlife like no other.
Monkeys and mongoose are often spotted in Makasutu and crocodiles can be seen at the Kachikally Museum in Bakau. With over 540 species of birds, The Gambia is also a paradise for birdwatching.
Even BBC presenter and wildlife expert Chris Packham, who visits regularly, has praised The Gambia as a top birding destination. He's described it as being easily accessible, affordable and packed with a range of exciting species.
10. A warm welcome
The smallest country on the African continent, The Gambia has gained the nickname "the smiling coast of Africa” for its welcoming hand of friendship to tourists.
Locals are renowned for their helpful nature and friendliness, putting visitors at ease when venturing out to shops, bars and restaurants.
Just pop to your doctors beforehand as visitors are advised to take malaria medication before travelling. Full the latest travel advice from the UK Government, click here
The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays to The Gambia to suit all types of travellers click here to see their latest holiday deals


birminghammail--2020-02-20--School has created two clubs to help pupils make a difference

THE FUNDRAISING efforts of pupils at Saxon Hill Academy in Lichfield have been applauded at a special event involving The Rotary Club of Tamworth .
The school has created two clubs giving pupils an opportunity to make a difference to the community - Saxon Hill Superstars Rotakids Club for those aged 5-12 and Interact Club for the older pupils aged 13-19 .
Michelle Rowberry , of Saxon Hill Academy , said : “ These clubs are all about raising understanding of community and international issues , encouraging friendships and collaboration in fundraising .
“ Our amazing children face incredibly difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all want to make a difference to other people .
“ The Interact Club has supported Aquabox , SANDS ( Stillbirth and neonatal death charity ) , St John ’ s Hospital and the Foodbank .
“ The Rotakids decided last term that they wanted to make a difference and chose Aquabox as their first charity .
They made and sold hot chocolate , cake and cookies raising £100.
” Members of the Rotary Club of Tamworth , and a representative from the charity Aquabox , Colin Cartwright , met with pupils recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jaspal , the President of the Rotary Club of Tamworth , Mike Pegg , three past Rotary Club Presidents , Graham Barlow , John Garner and Steve Turner , the Assistant Secretary Mario Gauci , member and resident professional photographer Norman Rubenis of Norman Rubenis Photography and member Maleka Bibi .
All the young members of the Rotakids Club were presented with a certificate and medal .
The new members of the Interact Club were also presented with certificates to thank them for their dedication .
Colin from Aquabox gave a demonstration of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dirty water into safe drinking water .
One of the Rotakids , Alfie Birch , had a chance to try the filter .
Since its formation in 1992 , Aquabox has distributed more than 110,000 boxes to countries suffering from natural and man-made disasters .
Each box is tailored to support a family group , it contains water purification filters as well as items of humanitarian aid to help with shelter and shelter building , lighting , cooking and feeding , educational development and hygiene .
Each individual filter costs £25 .
Thomas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rotakids Club presented Colin with a cheque for £100 which will provide four filters to help save lives .
The Friends of Saxon Hill Academy helped with fundraising over the Christmas period with the Rotary Club of Tamworth .
The Friends collected on two occasions outside stores in Tamworth .
During the five weeks before Christmas the Rotary Club of Tamworth teamed with numerous charities and support groups raising a total of £33,000 .
The Friends of Saxon Hill Academy were presented with a cheque for £215 .
“ We are all incredibly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hill Academy , ” added Michelle .
“ We look forward to a long term partnership making a real difference to others locally and internationally , proving our commitment to ‘ Service above Self ’ .
”

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THE FUNDRAISING efforts of pupils at Saxon Hill Academy in Lichfield have been applauded at a special event involving The Rotary Club of Tamworth.
The school has created two clubs giving pupils an opportunity to make a difference to the community - Saxon Hill Superstars Rotakids Club for those aged 5-12 and Interact Club for the older pupils aged 13-19.
Michelle Rowberry, of Saxon Hill Academy, said: “These clubs are all about raising understanding of community and international issues, encouraging friendships and collaboration in fundraising.
“Our amazing children face incredibly difficult situations due to severe disabilities but they all want to make a difference to other people.
“The Interact Club has supported Aquabox, SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity), St John’s Hospital and the Foodbank.
“The Rotakids decided last term that they wanted to make a difference and chose Aquabox as their first charity. They made and sold hot chocolate, cake and cookies raising £100.”
Members of the Rotary Club of Tamworth, and a representative from the charity Aquabox, Colin Cartwright, met with pupils recently.
They included District Governor, Bala Jaspal, the President of the Rotary Club of Tamworth, Mike Pegg, three past Rotary Club Presidents, Graham Barlow, John Garner and Steve Turner, the Assistant Secretary Mario Gauci, member and resident professional photographer Norman Rubenis of Norman Rubenis Photography and member Maleka Bibi.
All the young members of the Rotakids Club were presented with a certificate and medal.
The new members of the Interact Club were also presented with certificates to thank them for their dedication.
Colin from Aquabox gave a demonstration of how their water filter works and turns dirty water into safe drinking water.
One of the Rotakids, Alfie Birch, had a chance to try the filter.
Since its formation in 1992, Aquabox has distributed more than 110,000 boxes to countries suffering from natural and man-made disasters. Each box is tailored to support a family group, it contains water purification filters as well as items of humanitarian aid to help with shelter and shelter building, lighting, cooking and feeding, educational development and hygiene.
Each individual filter costs £25. Thomas Pepper, the President of the new Rotakids Club presented Colin with a cheque for £100 which will provide four filters to help save lives.
The Friends of Saxon Hill Academy helped with fundraising over the Christmas period with the Rotary Club of Tamworth. The Friends collected on two occasions outside stores in Tamworth. During the five weeks before Christmas the Rotary Club of Tamworth teamed with numerous charities and support groups raising a total of £33,000. The Friends of Saxon Hill Academy were presented with a cheque for £215.
“We are all incredibly proud of the young people at Saxon Hill Academy,” added Michelle.
“We look forward to a long term partnership making a real difference to others locally and internationally, proving our commitment to ‘Service above Self’.”


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Dean Smith provides John McGinn fitness update Aston Vila fans have been craving

Dean Smith has provided a key injury update ahead of Southampton - with John McGinn edging ever closer to a return to action .
The Scot fractured his left ankle against the Saints on December 21 and , according to Smith , his rehabilitation has been going well .
The 25-year-old looks set to train for the first time on grass this weekend , and Smith said : `` John McGinn has been running on the AlterG ( zero-gravity treadmill ) at 85 per cent body weight .
He 's looking to be running on the grass come the weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day-by-day to see how he continues his rehabilitation . ''
Elsewhere , Tyrone Mings looks set to a return to the starting XI after missing last week 's 3-2 defeat by Spurs with a bout of tonsillitis .
Keinan Davis ( hamstring ) , meanwhile , will start training on Monday .
`` No , he 's fine , '' Smith said of Mings ' return .
`` He had a touch of tonsillitis and was back training on Wednesday .
It 's been unfortunate .
He 's been a big player for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday , was difficult .
He 'll be back ready for Southampton on Saturday .
He 's got the qualities to be a real leader and he 's still growing into that role . ''
Smith was questioned about the mood within the camp after such a heartbreaking defeat by Spurs last week , and said : `` I think the manner of which it came about .
We played ever so well , certainly the first 30 , 40 , 45 minutes then , to make a big mistake and to concede @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always difficult .
`` As I said , we 'd been on the winning side of games in the last minute at Villa Park before .
As disappointing as it is , you move on .
We can take a lot of heart from the performance from the game .
`` We came in the following day and did our debrief and knew what we had to work on to improve but , certainly , the break has done us well .
It showed the way we came out of the traps against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are top-four . ''

Dean Smith has provided a key injury update ahead of Southampton - with John McGinn edging ever closer to a return to action.
The Scot fractured his left ankle against the Saints on December 21 and, according to Smith, his rehabilitation has been going well.
The 25-year-old looks set to train for the first time on grass this weekend, and Smith said: "John McGinn has been running on the AlterG (zero-gravity treadmill) at 85 per cent body weight. He's looking to be running on the grass come the weekend. His return will be looked at day-by-day to see how he continues his rehabilitation."
(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)
Elsewhere, Tyrone Mings looks set to a return to the starting XI after missing last week's 3-2 defeat by Spurs with a bout of tonsillitis. Keinan Davis (hamstring), meanwhile, will start training on Monday.
"No, he's fine," Smith said of Mings' return. "He had a touch of tonsillitis and was back training on Wednesday. It's been unfortunate. He's been a big player for us so, to miss him on Sunday, was difficult. He'll be back ready for Southampton on Saturday. He's got the qualities to be a real leader and he's still growing into that role."
Smith was questioned about the mood within the camp after such a heartbreaking defeat by Spurs last week, and said: "I think the manner of which it came about. We played ever so well, certainly the first 30, 40, 45 minutes then, to make a big mistake and to concede in the dying minutes, it's always difficult.
"As I said, we'd been on the winning side of games in the last minute at Villa Park before. As disappointing as it is, you move on. We can take a lot of heart from the performance from the game.
"We came in the following day and did our debrief and knew what we had to work on to improve but, certainly, the break has done us well. It showed the way we came out of the traps against Spurs, going right at a team who are top-four."


birminghammail--2020-02-20--'Best team I've seen' - The Bristol City view of West Brom ahead of key clash

West Brom ’ s promotion charge resumes in Bristol this weekend when they visit Ashton Gate to tackle the Robins .
They head west heartened by a retrieval of their positive early season form - form which included the sweeping aside of Lee Johnson ’ s City in the reverse fixture of this meeting - and will be intending on continuing that recent run after a return of 10 points from the last 12 on offer .
They ’ ll have more straightforward ties over the course of 46 games than this one , however ; the Robins , on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Championship table , are currently six places and ten points behind Albion and possess promotion aspirations of their own .
What are they likely to achieve in the run-in , then ?
“ A possible spot in the top two disappeared with defeat at Leeds United at the weekend , ” Gregor MacGregor of BristolLive told us .
“ Realistically it would take a miracle for that to happen and the Robins have yet to demonstrate the consistency to rise to that level .
“ However , a position in the top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their path of flight so far this season .
With the three signings they made in January , there has been an injection of quality into the side and there is hope that that will translate into a play-off position this campaign.
” Rather remarkably , the Robins haven ’ t actually drawn a match since the weekend before they were thumped at The Hawthorns , way back in November .
That ’ s a run of 16 matches , in which they ’ ve either had three points to show for their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Is that representative of how they set up ?
“ Yes : Lee Johnson will go for it , via his match team selections and in-game substitutions , ” Gregor continued .
“ Invariably things will go wrong occasionally , and City are a little short in quality compared with the top two in the Championship - and were largely played off the park last weekend against Leeds United - but they have some qualities of their own and will pose a threat to any side .
“ City will be bold and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect them to partner Famara Diedhiou and Nahki Wells in attack for this game .
Though the Robins ’ home form has been patchy.
” What is the red side of Bristol expecting from the Baggies this weekend , then , besides the obvious ?
McGregor claims they ’ re the best side he ’ s witnessed face the Robins to date and expects a top two spot to be theirs come the season ’ s finale .
He added : “ They were obviously impressive in the 4-1 win earlier this season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their side , with outstanding talents such as Pereira , Diangana and Phillips backed up by the industry and power of Livermore , Sawyers , Bartley and others .
“ They ’ re probably the best team I ’ ve seen this season and I think it ’ s going to be very tough for the Robins this weekend , naturally .
I expect the Baggies to grab automatic promotion - and I like the job Slaven Bilic is doing , who I thought perhaps didn ’ t get the recognition he deserved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As for this weekend , Gregor has opted to sit on the fence and predicts a 1-1 draw : “ As you say , not too many draws of late so perhaps we ’ re due for one !
”

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West Brom’s promotion charge resumes in Bristol this weekend when they visit Ashton Gate to tackle the Robins.
They head west heartened by a retrieval of their positive early season form - form which included the sweeping aside of Lee Johnson’s City in the reverse fixture of this meeting - and will be intending on continuing that recent run after a return of 10 points from the last 12 on offer.
They’ll have more straightforward ties over the course of 46 games than this one, however; the Robins, on the cusp of the play-off places in the Championship table, are currently six places and ten points behind Albion and possess promotion aspirations of their own.
What are they likely to achieve in the run-in, then?
(Image: PA)
“A possible spot in the top two disappeared with defeat at Leeds United at the weekend,” Gregor MacGregor of BristolLive told us. “Realistically it would take a miracle for that to happen and the Robins have yet to demonstrate the consistency to rise to that level.
“However, a position in the top six is obtainable if they can continue their path of flight so far this season. With the three signings they made in January, there has been an injection of quality into the side and there is hope that that will translate into a play-off position this campaign.”
Rather remarkably, the Robins haven’t actually drawn a match since the weekend before they were thumped at The Hawthorns, way back in November.
That’s a run of 16 matches, in which they’ve either had three points to show for their efforts, or nothing at all.
Is that representative of how they set up?
“Yes: Lee Johnson will go for it, via his match team selections and in-game substitutions,” Gregor continued. “Invariably things will go wrong occasionally, and City are a little short in quality compared with the top two in the Championship - and were largely played off the park last weekend against Leeds United - but they have some qualities of their own and will pose a threat to any side.
“City will be bold and go for it at home and I expect them to partner Famara Diedhiou and Nahki Wells in attack for this game. Though the Robins’ home form has been patchy.”
What is the red side of Bristol expecting from the Baggies this weekend, then, besides the obvious?
McGregor claims they’re the best side he’s witnessed face the Robins to date and expects a top two spot to be theirs come the season’s finale.
(Image: Getty Images)
He added: “They were obviously impressive in the 4-1 win earlier this season and I really like the balance to their side, with outstanding talents such as Pereira, Diangana and Phillips backed up by the industry and power of Livermore, Sawyers, Bartley and others.
“They’re probably the best team I’ve seen this season and I think it’s going to be very tough for the Robins this weekend, naturally. I expect the Baggies to grab automatic promotion - and I like the job Slaven Bilic is doing, who I thought perhaps didn’t get the recognition he deserved for his work at West Ham.”
As for this weekend, Gregor has opted to sit on the fence and predicts a 1-1 draw: “As you say, not too many draws of late so perhaps we’re due for one!”


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Ten bargain homes up for auction in Birmingham with starting price of £1

Ten houses are going up for sale with a starting price of just £1 - at a Birmingham auction .
The £1 homes , which are being released on auction , are in rundown areas across the UK .
The boarded-up Victorian terraces have no plumbing , electrics , fixtures or fittings , reports ChronicleLive .
Gurpreet Bassi , chief executive of Bond Wolfe Auctions , said : “ Each of these properties obviously needs substantial investment , time and effort to return them into decent homes , but for the right investors they could be great bargains.
” Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ reserve prices , prospective owners would still have to pay the standard auction administration fee of £1,074 including VAT for each property , and each property was likely to increase in price because of intense bidding .
He added : “ It ’ s becoming quite a thing in auctions to give properties ‘ nil ’ or £1 reserve prices because sometimes they really do need a bump-start to get the right potential bidders involved .
“ But I ’ ve never had an auction with as many as 38 houses with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this range of properties is likely to attract strong interest from potential buyers.
” The properties are going under the hammer in Bond Wolfe Auctions ' sale on February 27 at the Holte Suite at Aston Villa FC .
This property two bedroom house on Third Street has two reception rooms , a kitchen and bathroom .
It benefits from having UPVC double glazing but is need of modernisation .
A two bedroom mid terraced house on Eleventh Street in Horden , Peterlee .
It has a reception room , kitchen , landing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The boarded up property on Twelfth Street in Horden has three bedrooms , reception room , kitchen , landing and rear year .
This property is in need of refurbishment work and there has been no inspection .
Located on Argent Street in Peterlee , there are three bedrooms , a landing , bathroom and rear yard .
This two bedroom mid terraced house at 11 Jane Street in Stanley has a landing , bathroom and rear garden .
It also has a gas fired central heating system and UPVC double glazing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a kitchen and bathroom in this property on Henry Street South in Seaham .
There are also two bedrooms and viewing is externally only .
Standing back from the road behind a foregarden , this two bedroom house can be found on Seaham 's Henry Street North .
It has a reception room , kitchen , bathroom and rear yard , as well as gas fired central heating and double glazing .
The rental income for the property is around £3,360 per annum .
This three bedroom mid terraced house has a porch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kitchen , rear lobby and bathroom ( no fittings ) .
Located on 16 Hastings Street , Sunderland , it is a freehold property .
Also in the auction catalogue are three properties with a guide price of just £1 each This is a two bedroom freehold property on Brook Street in Bishop Auckland .
There is a reception room , kitchen with no fittings , landing and bathroom , also with no fittings .
Located in the pit village of Ludworth , the house has three bedrooms , a landing , rear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been subject to fire damage and has no been inspected internally .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Kali Lindsay, James Rodger)

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Ten houses are going up for sale with a starting price of just £1 - at a Birmingham auction.
The £1 homes, which are being released on auction, are in rundown areas across the UK.
The boarded-up Victorian terraces have no plumbing, electrics, fixtures or fittings, reports ChronicleLive.
Gurpreet Bassi, chief executive of Bond Wolfe Auctions, said: “Each of these properties obviously needs substantial investment, time and effort to return them into decent homes, but for the right investors they could be great bargains.”
Mr Bassi explained that despite the ‘nil’ reserve prices, prospective owners would still have to pay the standard auction administration fee of £1,074 including VAT for each property, and each property was likely to increase in price because of intense bidding.
He added: “It’s becoming quite a thing in auctions to give properties ‘nil’ or £1 reserve prices because sometimes they really do need a bump-start to get the right potential bidders involved.
“But I’ve never had an auction with as many as 38 houses with ‘nil’ reserve tags, and this range of properties is likely to attract strong interest from potential buyers.”
The properties are going under the hammer in Bond Wolfe Auctions' sale on February 27 at the Holte Suite at Aston Villa FC.
Nil reserve
Third Street, Horden
(Image: handout)
This property two bedroom house on Third Street has two reception rooms, a kitchen and bathroom.
It benefits from having UPVC double glazing but is need of modernisation.
Eleventh Street, Horden
(Image: handout)
A two bedroom mid terraced house on Eleventh Street in Horden, Peterlee.
It has a reception room, kitchen, landing, two bedrooms and a rear yard.
Twelfth Street, Horden
(Image: handout)
The boarded up property on Twelfth Street in Horden has three bedrooms, reception room, kitchen, landing and rear year.
Argent Street, Peterlee
(Image: handout)
This property is in need of refurbishment work and there has been no inspection.
Located on Argent Street in Peterlee, there are three bedrooms, a landing, bathroom and rear yard.
Jane Street, Stanley
(Image: handout)
This two bedroom mid terraced house at 11 Jane Street in Stanley has a landing, bathroom and rear garden.
It also has a gas fired central heating system and UPVC double glazing.
Henry Street South, Seaham
(Image: handout)
There are two reception rooms, a kitchen and bathroom in this property on Henry Street South in Seaham.
There are also two bedrooms and viewing is externally only.
Henry Street North, Seaham
(Image: handout)
Standing back from the road behind a foregarden, this two bedroom house can be found on Seaham's Henry Street North.
It has a reception room, kitchen, bathroom and rear yard, as well as gas fired central heating and double glazing.
The rental income for the property is around £3,360 per annum.
Hastings Street, Sunderland
(Image: handout)
This three bedroom mid terraced house has a porch, hall, reception room, dining kitchen, rear lobby and bathroom (no fittings).
Located on 16 Hastings Street, Sunderland, it is a freehold property.
£1 reserve
Also in the auction catalogue are three properties with a guide price of just £1 each
Brook Street, Bishop Auckland
(Image: handout)
This is a two bedroom freehold property on Brook Street in Bishop Auckland.
There is a reception room, kitchen with no fittings, landing and bathroom, also with no fittings.
Margaret Street, Ludworth
(Image: handout)
Located in the pit village of Ludworth, the house has three bedrooms, a landing, rear yard and garage.
The property has been subject to fire damage and has no been inspected internally.


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Gabby Agbonlahor makes Jack Grealish top-four claim that Aston Villa fans should read

Gabby Agbonlahor believes Aston Villa can kick on and look towards European football – if they avoid relegation this season .
The former Villa striker and fan favourite says his old club could start fighting “ for top four again ” if they manage to keep hold of key player Jack Grealish and bolster the rest of the squad .
Dean Smith ’ s men are currently one point and one place above the relegation zone , heading into their crucial weekend fixture away to Southampton .
Grealish has been pivotal to Villa ’ s success this season , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move away from the club .
Agbonlahor was full of praise for the Villa captain – but insisted he hadn ’ t reached his peak yet .
“ He ’ s not at his peak yet he ’ s getting better game by game , ” Agbonlahor told talkSPORT .
“ The better players he plays against the better he plays , the more he ’ s learning the game he is getting better .
“ I don ’ t think you ’ ve seen him at his peak yet .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s going to be really hard [ to keep him ] , but I ’ m not thinking that way because I think they ’ ve got more than enough in the squad to stay up .
“ If you stay up and sell him what does that say for the rest of the squad ?
You have to keep hold of your best players and I think if they can keep hold of Jack and then rebuild , why can ’ t Villa start fighting for top four again .
They should @ @ @ @

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Gabby Agbonlahor believes Aston Villa can kick on and look towards European football – if they avoid relegation this season.
The former Villa striker and fan favourite says his old club could start fighting “for top four again” if they manage to keep hold of key player Jack Grealish and bolster the rest of the squad.
Dean Smith’s men are currently one point and one place above the relegation zone, heading into their crucial weekend fixture away to Southampton.
Grealish has been pivotal to Villa’s success this season, but has been heavily linked with a summer move away from the club.
Agbonlahor was full of praise for the Villa captain – but insisted he hadn’t reached his peak yet.
“He’s not at his peak yet he’s getting better game by game,” Agbonlahor told talkSPORT.
“The better players he plays against the better he plays, the more he’s learning the game he is getting better.
“I don’t think you’ve seen him at his peak yet.
“I think if they go down it’s going to be really hard [to keep him], but I’m not thinking that way because I think they’ve got more than enough in the squad to stay up.
“If you stay up and sell him what does that say for the rest of the squad? You have to keep hold of your best players and I think if they can keep hold of Jack and then rebuild, why can’t Villa start fighting for top four again. They should keep him.”


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Airbus cuts thousands of jobs worldwide including 357 in UK

Airbus will cut hundreds of jobs in the UK - with thousands worldwide facing the axe .
The jobs will be cut by the defence arm of the company , it has been announced on Thursday , February 20 .
Airbus will see a reduction in the number of staff members working for its space and defence division .
The company confirmed hundreds of UK jobs are among those at risk .
357 of the thousands of roles set to be axed are based in the United Kingdom , Airbus said .
4,000 staff will lose their jobs in total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Germany , 630 in Spain , 404 in France and 141 in other countries .
`` Airbus Defence and Space has entered the consultation process with the company 's European works council on the division 's planned restructuring , '' Airbus said in a statement .
`` While the underlying business perspectives especially in the core business remain solid , these steps became necessary after the division achieved a book-to-bill ratio below one for the third year in a row , mainly caused by a flat space market and postponed contracts on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the employee representatives foresee the reduction of 2,362 positions until end of 2021 , thereof 829 in Germany , 357 in UK , 630 in Spain , 404 in France and 142 in other countries .
`` These efforts will be supported by a reinforced profitability programme and further measures to increase long-term competitiveness and safeguard the division 's future positioning . ''

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Airbus will cut hundreds of jobs in the UK - with thousands worldwide facing the axe.
The jobs will be cut by the defence arm of the company, it has been announced on Thursday, February 20.
Airbus will see a reduction in the number of staff members working for its space and defence division.
The company confirmed hundreds of UK jobs are among those at risk.
357 of the thousands of roles set to be axed are based in the United Kingdom, Airbus said.
4,000 staff will lose their jobs in total, Airbus says, with 829 in Germany, 630 in Spain, 404 in France and 141 in other countries.
"Airbus Defence and Space has entered the consultation process with the company's European works council on the division's planned restructuring," Airbus said in a statement.
"While the underlying business perspectives especially in the core business remain solid, these steps became necessary after the division achieved a book-to-bill ratio below one for the third year in a row, mainly caused by a flat space market and postponed contracts on the defence side.
"The plans presented to the employee representatives foresee the reduction of 2,362 positions until end of 2021, thereof 829 in Germany, 357 in UK, 630 in Spain, 404 in France and 142 in other countries.
"These efforts will be supported by a reinforced profitability programme and further measures to increase long-term competitiveness and safeguard the division's future positioning."


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Spoof video slammed as 'embarrassing' as Lego workshop mocked in Walsall

A spoof children 's TV clip made by two Walsall councillors mocking a controversial workshop where they `` played with Lego '' has been posted on social media .
Labour members Lee Jeavons and Matt Ward put together the four minute video in which they poked fun at a training session some councillors took part in about building better communities and released it on YouTube yesterday ( February 19 ) .
The clip sees Councillor Jeavons and cuddly toy character Teddy Bear Michael talking to young 'viewers ' about playing with Lego before cutting to Councillor Ward outside a Lego @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a light-hearted way of getting their message out that the authority should n't be funding sessions where they play with Lego at a time when they are making severe cuts .
But Walsall Council leader Mike Bird dismissed their video as `` embarrassing '' for the Labour group and said they may have brought the authority into disrepute .
A row over the workshop broke out last week when Councillor Ward posted a photo of his Lego creation on social media .
He said the session was a waste of taxpayers money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities as they have been already been doing that work for years .
Councillor Bird defended the workshop and said the Lego element was simply used as a metaphor to demonstrate what they can build and achieve .
The video starts with Councillor Jeavons introducing Teddy Bear Michael who communicates by whispering in his ear similar to popular children 's TV character Sooty .
After announcing they are going to play 'building communities ' with Lego , they look through the `` Vandalised Window '' - damaged as a result of police cuts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lego store .
They conclude that the session was `` baffling '' and added they were sure `` taxpayers expect better from councillors than playing with Lego '' .
Councillor Jeavons said : `` It is a more light-hearted way in getting a serious message across and something that will cut through to the public .
`` We want the public to look at it and decide for themselves .
Some have seen it and are buying into the message so it is having the desired effect .
`` The reaction of councillors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all .
But we had fun making the video and perhaps I missed my calling and should have been a children 's TV presenter . ''
But council leader Mike Bird said : `` I have seen the video and it is that well known comedy duo Jester Jeavons and Witless Ward .
`` We are professional in our approach and I 'm sure people will see the stupidity of some of the Labour group .
`` As far as I 'm concerned it is demeaning for them .
It is embarrassing - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But I 'm glad they feel at home in the place I said they belong - in the Kindergarten playing with toys . ''

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A spoof children's TV clip made by two Walsall councillors mocking a controversial workshop where they "played with Lego" has been posted on social media.
Labour members Lee Jeavons and Matt Ward put together the four minute video in which they poked fun at a training session some councillors took part in about building better communities and released it on YouTube yesterday (February 19).
The clip sees Councillor Jeavons and cuddly toy character Teddy Bear Michael talking to young 'viewers' about playing with Lego before cutting to Councillor Ward outside a Lego megastore in London.
Watch the full video above
They said it was a light-hearted way of getting their message out that the authority shouldn't be funding sessions where they play with Lego at a time when they are making severe cuts.
But Walsall Council leader Mike Bird dismissed their video as "embarrassing" for the Labour group and said they may have brought the authority into disrepute.
A row over the workshop broke out last week when Councillor Ward posted a photo of his Lego creation on social media.
He said the session was a waste of taxpayers money and taught members nothing about building stronger communities as they have been already been doing that work for years.
Councillor Bird defended the workshop and said the Lego element was simply used as a metaphor to demonstrate what they can build and achieve.
The video starts with Councillor Jeavons introducing Teddy Bear Michael who communicates by whispering in his ear similar to popular children's TV character Sooty.
After announcing they are going to play 'building communities' with Lego, they look through the "Vandalised Window" - damaged as a result of police cuts - to join Councillor Ward outside the Lego store.
They conclude that the session was "baffling" and added they were sure "taxpayers expect better from councillors than playing with Lego".
Councillor Jeavons said: "It is a more light-hearted way in getting a serious message across and something that will cut through to the public.
"We want the public to look at it and decide for themselves. Some have seen it and are buying into the message so it is having the desired effect.
"The reaction of councillors who sat through the session said it all. But we had fun making the video and perhaps I missed my calling and should have been a children's TV presenter."
But council leader Mike Bird said: "I have seen the video and it is that well known comedy duo Jester Jeavons and Witless Ward.
"We are professional in our approach and I'm sure people will see the stupidity of some of the Labour group.
"As far as I'm concerned it is demeaning for them. It is embarrassing - talk about bringing the council into disrepute.
"But I'm glad they feel at home in the place I said they belong - in the Kindergarten playing with toys."


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Aston Villa news live - Gabby Agbonlahor hits out at transfer gambles & defends Lambert's 'impossibl

Aston Villa news live - Gabby Agbonlahor hits out at transfer gambles & defends Lambert's 'impossible job'

Welcome to Thursday 's live Aston Villa blog , brought to you by BirminghamLive .
Attentions swiftly turn to another @ @ @ @ @ Villa this week , who will be looking to bounce back from the crushing , @ @ @ @ @ to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday .
Dean Smith 's men make the trip to the @ @ @ @ @ Southampton .
The Saints will be looking to put a gap between themselves and the @ @ @ @ @ will be looking to drag them back into the fight .
West Ham United missed @ @ @ @ @ back in the bottom three last night as they were beaten away to Manchester City @ @ @ @ @ and previews for the game on the south coast , we will have all of @ @ @ @ @ gossip .
To keep up to date with everything happening on B6 in our dedicated @ @ @

Welcome to Thursday's live Aston Villa blog, brought to you by BirminghamLive.
Attentions swiftly turn to another huge Premier League encounter for Villa this week, who will be looking to bounce back from the crushing, late 3-2 defeat at home to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
Dean Smith's men make the trip to the south coast to take on Southampton. The Saints will be looking to put a gap between themselves and the relegation places, while Villa will be looking to drag them back into the fight.
West Ham United missed the chance to put Villa back in the bottom three last night as they were beaten away to Manchester City.
As well as updates and previews for Saturday's game on the south coast, we will have all of the last transfer news and gossip, including updates on Wembley tickets - which have today sold out.
To keep up to date with everything happening on B6 in our dedicated blog below.


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Judge Rinder 'set for Strictly Come Dancing return in first same-sex couple'

Judge Rinder is ready to return to Strictly Come Dancing - and he could be hitting the dancefloor as part of a same-sex couple .
Eager show bosses are reported to have offered him a place on the hit show for next year and he 's keen to accept the invitation .
The telly judge , real name Rob , says the BBC is keen to have him back as part of the programme 's first same-sex couple , after Dancing On Ice 's Ian `` H '' Watkins and Matt Evers were paired together this year .
Rob , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything '' to appear on the show again , after revealing : `` I was offered next year 's Christmas special with a same-sex dancer , '' to OK !
Magazine .
He continued : `` I 'd do anything .
I 've danced on stage with Anton Du Beke for a Grenfell Tower benefit . ''
The move comes after Strictly introduced a same-sex couple in the professional group dance last year - where Johannes Radebe and Graziano Di Prima performed together to Shine by Emeli Sande .
But the performance was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC .
H from Steps was the first same-sex couple in Dancing On Ice 's history .
However he was the fifth person to be booted off the skating competition .
At the time , he posted on social media to share a selfie with show judges Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean .
In a post on Instagram , he wrote : `` I mean ... @ dancingonice training is getting ridiculously funny !
!
! ''
H reportedly asked Dancing On Ice producers whether he could be paired with a male skater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' of it .

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Judge Rinder is ready to return to Strictly Come Dancing - and he could be hitting the dancefloor as part of a same-sex couple.
Eager show bosses are reported to have offered him a place on the hit show for next year and he's keen to accept the invitation.
The telly judge, real name Rob, says the BBC is keen to have him back as part of the programme's first same-sex couple, after Dancing On Ice's Ian "H" Watkins and Matt Evers were paired together this year.
Rob, 41, admitted he'd "do anything" to appear on the show again, after revealing: "I was offered next year's Christmas special with a same-sex dancer," to OK! Magazine.
He continued: "I'd do anything. I've danced on stage with Anton Du Beke for a Grenfell Tower benefit."
The move comes after Strictly introduced a same-sex couple in the professional group dance last year - where Johannes Radebe and Graziano Di Prima performed together to Shine by Emeli Sande.
But the performance was criticised and received 300 complaints to the BBC.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
H from Steps was the first same-sex couple in Dancing On Ice's history.
However he was the fifth person to be booted off the skating competition.
At the time, he posted on social media to share a selfie with show judges Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.
In a post on Instagram, he wrote: "I mean... @dancingonice training is getting ridiculously funny!!!"
H reportedly asked Dancing On Ice producers whether he could be paired with a male skater and the team were "fully supportive" of it.


birminghammail--2020-02-20--Myles Stephenson rushed to hospital after horror crash leaves I'm A Celebrity star with ruptured spl

Myles Stephenson rushed to hospital after horror crash leaves I'm A Celebrity star with ruptured spleen

I 'm A Celeb star Myles Stephenson has been rushed to hospital following a snowboarding accident that left him with a ruptured spleen and internal bleeding .
The Rak-Su singer appeared on I 'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here !
last year and is recovering in the Intensive Care Unit after the collision in the ski resort of El Pas de la Casa in Andorra .
The 28-year-old reassured fans that he 's on the mend after suffering a concussion , broken ribs and rupturing his spleen , reports the Mirror .
Speaking on his Instagram stories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what up people ?
I look a bit worse for wear , do n't I ?
`` Thank you for all your messages .
Basically I broke a few ribs , I ruptured my spleen and have some internal bleeding .
`` That has stopped now , so I 'm just chilling here on ICU - It 's like a five-star ICU , it 's amazing . ''
He added : `` My mum and the rest of my family are getting me through this .
`` I 'm counting my blessings day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your loved ones you love them .
Peace . ''
Myles explained in a text post what had happened , quipping that this has taught him , '' Mum is always right '' .
`` A few days ago I had a bad boarding accident .
I have concussion , 2 broken ribs and a punctured spleen which resulted in internal bleeding , '' he revealed .
`` I have seen progression in good health and thank god I am doing okay !
Thank you to the nurses , doctors and especially my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ! ''
He went on : `` Lessons learned from this accident is MUM IS ALWAYS RIGHT AND NEVER TRY FIGHT THAT !
Lol .
That my brothers love me .
Step dads still a t**t. And the rest of my family thought they could to some covert Rambo mission to get out here ! ''
Myles found fame on The X Factor when he and Rak-Su bandmates won the 2017 series .
Their winner ’ s single 'Dimelo ' , which was an original song , rose to the number six spot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ band have also toured in support of previous X Factor stars Little Mix and Olly Murs .
In 2019 he was one of the campmates in I 'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here !
and was the sixth campmate to be sent home .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Emmeline Saunders, Katie Brooks)

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I'm A Celeb star Myles Stephenson has been rushed to hospital following a snowboarding accident that left him with a ruptured spleen and internal bleeding.
The Rak-Su singer appeared on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! last year and is recovering in the Intensive Care Unit after the collision in the ski resort of El Pas de la Casa in Andorra.
The 28-year-old reassured fans that he's on the mend after suffering a concussion, broken ribs and rupturing his spleen, reports the Mirror.
Speaking on his Instagram stories, Myles said: "Hey - what up people? I look a bit worse for wear, don't I?
(Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
"Thank you for all your messages. Basically I broke a few ribs, I ruptured my spleen and have some internal bleeding.
"That has stopped now, so I'm just chilling here on ICU - It's like a five-star ICU, it's amazing."
He added: "My mum and the rest of my family are getting me through this.
"I'm counting my blessings day in, day out. Always tell your loved ones you love them. Peace."
Myles explained in a text post what had happened, quipping that this has taught him,"Mum is always right".
"A few days ago I had a bad boarding accident. I have concussion, 2 broken ribs and a punctured spleen which resulted in internal bleeding," he revealed.
"I have seen progression in good health and thank god I am doing okay! Thank you to the nurses, doctors and especially my family for treating me like a prince!"
He went on: "Lessons learned from this accident is MUM IS ALWAYS RIGHT AND NEVER TRY FIGHT THAT! Lol. That my brothers love me. Step dads still a t**t. And the rest of my family thought they could to some covert Rambo mission to get out here!"
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Myles found fame on The X Factor when he and Rak-Su bandmates won the 2017 series.
Their winner’s single 'Dimelo', which was an original song, rose to the number six spot on the Official Singles Chart while the band have also toured in support of previous X Factor stars Little Mix and Olly Murs.
In 2019 he was one of the campmates in I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! and was the sixth campmate to be sent home.


birminghammail--2020-02-20--'Nowhere near it' - Aston Villa favourite lifts the lid on transfer ‘gambles’ and lack of investment

Former striker Gabby Agbonlahor has opened up about the moment investment stopped under Randy Lerner at Aston Villa .
Villa were a Premier League force to be reckoned with at the back end of the 2000s , with Martin O ’ Neill guided them to three consecutive sixth-placed finishes .
With Agbonlahor coming through the ranks under O ’ Neill , Villa had stars including John Carew , Ashley Young , Gareth Barry and James Milner pushing their European charge .
But the investment stopped and O ’ Neill left the club in August 2010 .
Gerard Houllier and Alex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paul Lambert took over .
Lambert was in charge during the club ’ s slide towards the Premier League bottom three – but Agbonlahor said the Scot was tasked with “ an impossible job ” .
“ Paul Lambert came in , it was an impossible job for him really , ” Agbonlahor told talkSPORT .
“ I actually felt sorry for Paul Lambert , he was basically told by the owner ‘ Anyone who is on good money has got to go ’ .
“ It doesn ’ t matter if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – you ’ re going .
It doesn ’ t matter what you ’ ve got on the pitch .
“ He was bringing in players from League Two , League One and it ’ s the Premier League , you ’ re playing against superstars .
“ I think that ’ s what let Villa down , especially that season , and seasons on from that was basically the squad wasn ’ t good enough .
“ I do rate Paul Lambert for the job he did because any other manager would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in there and was saying ‘ I need to rely on certain players , because the players I ’ m able to bring in just aren ’ t good enough ’ .
” Agbonlahor added : “ From making my debut under Martin O ’ Neil and the players we had – then we just sold them .
“ Benteke went , I was the only one really staying and anyone who was worth money was like ‘ We ’ ll take him ’ .
“ If anyone did well it was name @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone.
” Agbonlahor said his own form suffered as a result of the mass exit of high-quality players at Villa Park .
“ People don ’ t realise that , ” he said .
“ People are quick to say , oh your form wasn ’ t as good .
I think sometimes when you ’ re playing with better players you play better .
“ It ’ s like anyone – no offence to the players Paul Lambert was bringing in .
We may have £10m to use in the summer and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ French second division as a gamble and it wasn ’ t working .
“ All these players we were signing were just basically gambles.
” The striker , who made almost 400 appearances for his boyhood club , recalled the moment Lerner stopped investing in the club .
“ I remember when the investment stopped , it was when Martin O ’ Neill left , I think there was talk he wanted to sign Robbie Keane , McGeady , Scott Parker , ” he said .
“ I think there were certain players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no .
Investment time was over , the project he was involved with , Randy , maybe he ’ d pumped enough money in , lost a certain amount and probably thought ‘ You know what , there ’ s going to be no more investment ’ - and that ’ s why Martin left .
”

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The failure to sign three key transfer targets cost Martin O'Neill his job at Aston Villa, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.
Villa once again became a force to be reckoned with under O'Neill, the Northern Irishman leading the club to consecutive sixth-placed finishes and European football.
The likes of John Carew, Ashley Young, Gareth Barry and James Milner were helping push the charge and the stage was set for Villa to kick on.
But it didn't happen. O'Neill walked in 2010, just five days before the season was due to start, unhappy over owner Randy Lerner's transfer policy following the sale of Milner to Manchester City.
Agbonlahor says things started to go sour when Lerner refused to sign O'Neill's targets. He told talkSport: “I remember when the investment stopped, it was when Martin O’Neill left, I think there was talk he wanted to sign Robbie Keane, McGeady, Scott Parker.
“There were certain players he wanted to buy but Randy said no. Investment time was over, the project he was involved with, Randy, maybe he’d pumped enough money in, lost a certain amount and probably thought ‘You know what, there’s going to be no more investment’ - and that’s why Martin left.”
O'Neill's departure saw Gerard Houllier appointed as boss, before Alex McLeish was then handed the reins.
"After Martin left it was Holliuer for a season, he left," said Agbonlahor. "Then McLeish.
"There were not many big signings and at any club [it's hard] if you're going to stop the investment. We were only three or four players from getting into the top four."