birminghammail--2020-05-24--Wolves dealt blow as Real Madrid enter race for Celtic target

Real Madrid have become the latest in a long line of clubs to be linked with Celtic defender and reported Wolves target Kristoffer Ajer .
The Norwegian international has been extensively linked with a move away from Parkhead this summer , after a string of impressive performances .
Leicester City have been long-term admirers of Ajer , with manager Brendan Rodgers being the man who brought him to Glasgow and converted him into a centre back .
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Google Play Store and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester United , Man City , Everton and Wolves are all tracking the 22-year-old .
It is understood the Bhoys will be looking for more than £20m for Ajer , with Leicester currently leading the race .
As well as interest from the Premier League , Milan , PSG and Borussia Dortmund are all keen on making a move when the window re-opens .
And now , reports in Spain suggest that Real Madrid could launch a bid , after being recommended to Zinedine Zidane by his compatriot Martin Odegaard .
Real are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Zidane searches for a long-term replacement for Sergio Ramos .
Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo meanwhile , also looks set to be in the market for defensive reinforcements , with Ryan Bennett ’ s Molineux future in doubt .
Bennett has spent the second half of this season with Leicester , although his loan deal hasn ’ t gone to plan , with him failing to make his debut before the coronavirus suspension .

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Real Madrid have become the latest in a long line of clubs to be linked with Celtic defender and reported Wolves target Kristoffer Ajer.
The Norwegian international has been extensively linked with a move away from Parkhead this summer, after a string of impressive performances.
Leicester City have been long-term admirers of Ajer, with manager Brendan Rodgers being the man who brought him to Glasgow and converted him into a centre back.
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Along with the Foxes – Manchester United, Man City, Everton and Wolves are all tracking the 22-year-old.
It is understood the Bhoys will be looking for more than £20m for Ajer, with Leicester currently leading the race.
(Image: Garry F McHarg Daily Record)
As well as interest from the Premier League, Milan, PSG and Borussia Dortmund are all keen on making a move when the window re-opens.
And now, reports in Spain suggest that Real Madrid could launch a bid, after being recommended to Zinedine Zidane by his compatriot Martin Odegaard.
Real are in market for a centre back, as Zidane searches for a long-term replacement for Sergio Ramos.
Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo meanwhile, also looks set to be in the market for defensive reinforcements, with Ryan Bennett’s Molineux future in doubt.
Bennett has spent the second half of this season with Leicester, although his loan deal hasn’t gone to plan, with him failing to make his debut before the coronavirus suspension.


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Liverpool plot move for Adama Traore - but there's a big catch

Liverpool are eyeing a move for Wolves winger Adama Traore , according to reports in the national press .
Wolves paid £18m for Traore in the summer of 2018 , with the Spaniard becoming the club ’ s record transfer at the time .
After struggling in his first season at Molineux , Traore has developed into one of the most dangerous attacking players in European football .
His form has meant that a number of the biggest clubs in the world have been linked with a move .
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Google Play Store and App Store Man City and Liverpool are believed to be long-term admirers , while reports this week have suggested Manchester United could launch a bid for Traore , who Wolves value at over £100m .
As well as Premier League interest , La Liga giants Real Madrid and his old club Barcelona have been credited with an interest .
But now , according to the Sun , Liverpool are ready to place him at the top of their transfer wishlist , with Jurgen Klopp keen to improve his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Kop bosses are preparing for a quieter summer window , with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic being felt by clubs around the globe .
Last month , Sky Sports reported that the Reds could have a quiet window , with suggestions that they could bring in no players over the summer window .
`` I was actually told that Liverpool wo n't be signing anyone in the next window , ” Sky Sports said .
`` If you would have asked me in January , I would have been pretty confident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to immediately bolster that first team squad .
`` Since then things have obviously changed .
`` There 's a different financial climate due to the impact of the coronavirus and that has naturally impacted on potential dealings in the transfer market as well . ''
This report suggests that Liverpool wouldn ’ t be able to afford him , unless they sell a number of fringe players – or allow Mohamed Salah to leave .
Klopp has been in effusive in his praise for Traore , with the winger shining in both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In January , after Liverpool 's dramatic win at Molineux , he described him as 'unplayable ' .
“ Traore now , at the moment I would say he is , pretty much , unplayable , '' he said .
`` I 've said it now a couple of times and it is still true .
“ He is now not only a winger anymore , he keeps the ball , holds the ball and sets up goals , obviously .
“ That makes it so difficult , each ball you lose is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a goal . ''

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Liverpool are eyeing a move for Wolves winger Adama Traore, according to reports in the national press.
Wolves paid £18m for Traore in the summer of 2018, with the Spaniard becoming the club’s record transfer at the time.
After struggling in his first season at Molineux, Traore has developed into one of the most dangerous attacking players in European football.
His form has meant that a number of the biggest clubs in the world have been linked with a move.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Man City and Liverpool are believed to be long-term admirers, while reports this week have suggested Manchester United could launch a bid for Traore, who Wolves value at over £100m.
As well as Premier League interest, La Liga giants Real Madrid and his old club Barcelona have been credited with an interest.
But now, according to the Sun, Liverpool are ready to place him at the top of their transfer wishlist, with Jurgen Klopp keen to improve his champions-in-waiting.
However, it is understood that Kop bosses are preparing for a quieter summer window, with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic being felt by clubs around the globe.
Last month, Sky Sports reported that the Reds could have a quiet window, with suggestions that they could bring in no players over the summer window.
"I was actually told that Liverpool won't be signing anyone in the next window,” Sky Sports said.
"If you would have asked me in January, I would have been pretty confident of one or two signings coming in to immediately bolster that first team squad.
"Since then things have obviously changed.
"There's a different financial climate due to the impact of the coronavirus and that has naturally impacted on potential dealings in the transfer market as well."
This report suggests that Liverpool wouldn’t be able to afford him, unless they sell a number of fringe players – or allow Mohamed Salah to leave.
Klopp has been in effusive in his praise for Traore, with the winger shining in both games between the teams this season.
In January, after Liverpool's dramatic win at Molineux, he described him as 'unplayable'.
“Traore now, at the moment I would say he is, pretty much, unplayable," he said. "I've said it now a couple of times and it is still true.
“He is now not only a winger anymore, he keeps the ball, holds the ball and sets up goals, obviously.
“That makes it so difficult, each ball you lose is 100% a counter attack and half a goal."


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Stiliyan Petrov’s ultimate XI named as Villa stars outnumber Celtic

Stiliyan Petrov has earned legendary status at both Celtic and Aston Villa .
The midfielder was plucked from Bulgaria by Celtic in 1999 and spent seven years in Glasgow before following Martin O'Neill to Villa Park in 2006 .
Petrov was immense in Villa 's midfield during his seven-year stay and almost sealed a sensational return to the club after beating cancer .
Despite Petrov 's impressive showings in the pre-season of 2016 , Roberto Di Matteo - who had just been appointed manager - did n't offer the former captain a route back into the fold .
Petrov 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll forever be remembered fondly on Villa Park 's terraces - and the same can be said of his time at Celtic .
He also earned 105 caps for his country .
During a professional career which spanned 18 years Petrov played with some outstanding players - but who did he feature alongside the most ?
Petrov is the latest subject of our Ultimate XI series so you 're about to find out .
Friedel was Villa 's undisputed number one for three seasons before joining Tottenham Hotspur and comfortably seals his spot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only announced his retirement in 2015 , shortly before his 44th birthday , and produced some of his best football at Villa Park .
Spanish defender Cuellar is naturally a centre-back but he spent a large chunk of his Villa career operating at right-back .
Cuellar played for Rangers prior to joining Villa but he and Petrov were never on opposing sides in an Old Firm derby .
Dunne formed an imperious partnership with James Collins to provide Petrov and his attacking colleagues with all the protection they needed to strut their stuff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular player in B6 before Paul Lambert released him in 2013 .
Balde just edges out Collins based on the fact that he 's played 34 more minutes alongside Petrov than the Welshman .
Balde signed for Celtic in 2001 and spent five years as Petrov 's teammate .
Warnock just edges Luke Young out at left-back - 77 games to 72 - to complete the back-line .
Frenchman Agathe is another who followed O'Neill to Villa in 2006 , but he was nowhere near as successful in the second city as Petrov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Premier League for Villa and makes the cut based on their time together in Scotland .
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Google Play Store and App Store Lennon is the final Celtic representative in Petrov 's team having appeared alongside him 91 times .
The pair have remained close since retirement and Petrov has made no secret of his desire to follow Lennon - who is currently enjoying his second spell as Celtic boss - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answer to Lennon and struck up an excellent understanding with Petrov in the two seasons they spent together in claret and blue .
Petrov and Barry combined on three occasions to score .
The only player Petrov enjoyed a more prolific partnership with was Chris Sutton , who he played with at both Celtic and Villa .
Young was largely seen as the star of the O'Neill era and impressed in his final season at Villa before leaving for Manchester United in 2011 .
The England star was one of many of Petrov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a charity game at Parkhead in 2018 .
Agbonlahor was Petrov 's teammate from start-to-finish at Villa , so it will come as little surprise that he played alongside the Bulgarian more than anyone else .
Both Agbonlahor and Petrov were crucial to O'Neill 's success in the Villa dugout over a four-year period .
Carew is the final piece of the jigsaw and only three players - Agbonlahor , Young and Friedel - appeared alongside Petrov on more occasions throughout his career .
The Norwegian striker was Petrov 's teammate for four @ @ @ @ @

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Stiliyan Petrov has earned legendary status at both Celtic and Aston Villa.
The midfielder was plucked from Bulgaria by Celtic in 1999 and spent seven years in Glasgow before following Martin O'Neill to Villa Park in 2006.
Petrov was immense in Villa's midfield during his seven-year stay and almost sealed a sensational return to the club after beating cancer.
Despite Petrov's impressive showings in the pre-season of 2016, Roberto Di Matteo - who had just been appointed manager - didn't offer the former captain a route back into the fold.
(Image: PA)
Petrov's dream return didn't materialise but he'll forever be remembered fondly on Villa Park's terraces - and the same can be said of his time at Celtic. He also earned 105 caps for his country.
During a professional career which spanned 18 years Petrov played with some outstanding players - but who did he feature alongside the most?
Petrov is the latest subject of our Ultimate XI series so you're about to find out.
The rules The XI is made up of players who made the most appearances alongside our featured player or for our featured manager. We're not looking for an overall 'Best' XI, and the player/manager himself isn't in it.
For a player, the appearance numbers are based on the time they spent on the pitch at the same time as our main man, factoring in both club and international level.
This isn't necessarily the eleven players who've spent the most time on the pitch with/for him, just the eleven that would fit into a working team.
We're not going to come up with a Garth Crooksesque formation, but we might name subs if we feel like it.
All minutes played and appearances stats are courtesy of transfermarkt.co.uk.
Don't get angry in the comments section.
Goalkeeper: Brad Friedel
Games alongside Petrov: 113
Friedel was Villa's undisputed number one for three seasons before joining Tottenham Hotspur and comfortably seals his spot in Petrov's XI.
The goalkeeper only announced his retirement in 2015, shortly before his 44th birthday, and produced some of his best football at Villa Park.
Right-back: Carlos Cuellar
Games alongside Petrov: 98
Spanish defender Cuellar is naturally a centre-back but he spent a large chunk of his Villa career operating at right-back.
Cuellar played for Rangers prior to joining Villa but he and Petrov were never on opposing sides in an Old Firm derby.
Centre-back: Richard Dunne
Games alongside Petrov: 94
Dunne formed an imperious partnership with James Collins to provide Petrov and his attacking colleagues with all the protection they needed to strut their stuff.
The ex-Manchester City man was a popular player in B6 before Paul Lambert released him in 2013.
Centre-back: Bobo Balde
Games alongside Petrov: 84
Balde just edges out Collins based on the fact that he's played 34 more minutes alongside Petrov than the Welshman.
Balde signed for Celtic in 2001 and spent five years as Petrov's teammate.
Left-back: Stephen Warnock
Games alongside Petrov: 77
Warnock just edges Luke Young out at left-back - 77 games to 72 - to complete the back-line.
Right-midfield: Didier Agathe
Games alongside Petrov: 59
Frenchman Agathe is another who followed O'Neill to Villa in 2006, but he was nowhere near as successful in the second city as Petrov.
He only played five games in the Premier League for Villa and makes the cut based on their time together in Scotland.
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Centre-midfield: Neil Lennon
Games alongside Petrov: 91
Lennon is the final Celtic representative in Petrov's team having appeared alongside him 91 times.
The pair have remained close since retirement and Petrov has made no secret of his desire to follow Lennon - who is currently enjoying his second spell as Celtic boss - into management.
Centre-midfield: Gareth Barry
Games alongside Petrov: 104
Barry was Villa's answer to Lennon and struck up an excellent understanding with Petrov in the two seasons they spent together in claret and blue.
Petrov and Barry combined on three occasions to score. The only player Petrov enjoyed a more prolific partnership with was Chris Sutton, who he played with at both Celtic and Villa.
Left-midfield: Ashley Young
Games alongside Petrov: 154
Young was largely seen as the star of the O'Neill era and impressed in his final season at Villa before leaving for Manchester United in 2011.
The England star was one of many of Petrov's former teammates who turned out in a charity game at Parkhead in 2018.
Striker: Gabby Agbonlahor
Games alongside Petrov: 197
Agbonlahor was Petrov's teammate from start-to-finish at Villa, so it will come as little surprise that he played alongside the Bulgarian more than anyone else.
Both Agbonlahor and Petrov were crucial to O'Neill's success in the Villa dugout over a four-year period.
Striker: John Carew
Games alongside Petrov: 106
Carew is the final piece of the jigsaw and only three players - Agbonlahor, Young and Friedel - appeared alongside Petrov on more occasions throughout his career.
The Norwegian striker was Petrov's teammate for four years at Villa Park.


birminghammail--2020-05-24--West Brom and Leeds fans send message to EFL after 'pathetic' claim

Hull City have made a second attempt to cancel the Championship - and fans of West Brom and Leeds United are furious .
Tigers chairman Ehab Allam became the first Championship chief to publicly speak out against the restart earlier this week and urged the EFL to void the season .
That is despite the vast majority of teams in the second tier set to return to training on Monday of next week .
Albion , who returned to training this week , and Leeds United are the keenest to finish the season , although they would both be promoted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the West Bromwich Albion news with our daily newsletter .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Hull , meanwhile , are in danger of being relegated to League One , hence why Allam has been so heavily criticised for his club 's stance .
In an email sent to EFL chairman Rick Parry , as well as the other 23 Championship clubs , Allam cites 'unnecessary legal and financial risks ' and the safety of players as justification to void the campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Telegraph , Allam writes : `` Without any guarantee that all remaining fixtures will be played if the season recommences , Championship clubs are , in effect , being asked to agree to a game of pass the parcel in which they can achieve/miss out on promotion or avoid/suffer relegation , if the music were to stop at an indeterminable/arbitrary point in time .
`` I continue to strongly believe that Championship clubs are being exposed to entirely unnecessary legal and financial risks ( and forced to overlook the health and safety concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the inappropriate haste with which clubs are being encouraged to return to training by the EFL . ''
Click here to read the full letter from Allam With Championship teams set to vote next week , supporters on social media believe Hull should be punished for their attempt to end the season , potentially saving themselves from relegation .
Neil Bates : Hull must be embarrassed at their chairman ... .desperate measures to preserve their status after a shocking season ... .a season which has been over 75 % completed ... pathetic in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surprising when you sell your 2 most creative players in January and your season goes to p*** Darren Gardner : so scared of them being relegated ha ha same with relegation threatened Premier league teams Steven Davenport : Hull city should be the first team relegated if they refuse to play the remainder of there games .
They know they are not good enough to play championship football so are trying to void the season .
Julia N Richard Dunn : Just because they will go down @ 333Doc1 : Hull are exactly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ useless .
Just watched the 2nd week of German football , Italy , Spain and Portugal all back before England which is embarrassing .
@ AnilPanesar : What a horrible , horrible club .
Only concern is relegation , simple as .
@ GmWalker : The master plan at work ... throw as many darts at the board and hope one sticks @ LeemHutchinson : He 's only concerned that if they lose one or 2 more games , then drop into the relegation places , they would be relegated if the season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if there was a 2nd spike or too many players start to become infected .

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Hull City have made a second attempt to cancel the Championship - and fans of West Brom and Leeds United are furious.
Tigers chairman Ehab Allam became the first Championship chief to publicly speak out against the restart earlier this week and urged the EFL to void the season.
That is despite the vast majority of teams in the second tier set to return to training on Monday of next week.
Albion, who returned to training this week, and Leeds United are the keenest to finish the season, although they would both be promoted using a points-per-game resolution.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Hull, meanwhile, are in danger of being relegated to League One, hence why Allam has been so heavily criticised for his club's stance.
In an email sent to EFL chairman Rick Parry, as well as the other 23 Championship clubs, Allam cites 'unnecessary legal and financial risks' and the safety of players as justification to void the campaign.
In a letter seen by the Telegraph, Allam writes: "Without any guarantee that all remaining fixtures will be played if the season recommences, Championship clubs are, in effect, being asked to agree to a game of pass the parcel in which they can achieve/miss out on promotion or avoid/suffer relegation, if the music were to stop at an indeterminable/arbitrary point in time.
"I continue to strongly believe that Championship clubs are being exposed to entirely unnecessary legal and financial risks (and forced to overlook the health and safety concerns that exist) as a result of the inappropriate haste with which clubs are being encouraged to return to training by the EFL."
Click here to read the full letter from Allam
With Championship teams set to vote next week, supporters on social media believe Hull should be punished for their attempt to end the season, potentially saving themselves from relegation.
West Brom fans
Neil Bates: Hull must be embarrassed at their chairman....desperate measures to preserve their status after a shocking season....a season which has been over 75% completed... pathetic in my opinion.
Andy Mole: Not surprising when you sell your 2 most creative players in January and your season goes to p***
Darren Gardner: so scared of them being relegated ha ha same with relegation threatened Premier league teams
Steven Davenport: Hull city should be the first team relegated if they refuse to play the remainder of there games . They know they are not good enough to play championship football so are trying to void the season.
Julia N Richard Dunn: Just because they will go down
Leeds fans
@333Doc1: Hull are exactly the same as WHU self serving and useless. Just watched the 2nd week of German football, Italy, Spain and Portugal all back before England which is embarrassing.
@AnilPanesar: What a horrible, horrible club. Only concern is relegation, simple as.
@LufcHutchy: Just relegate them
@GmWalker: The master plan at work...throw as many darts at the board and hope one sticks
@LeemHutchinson: He's only concerned that if they lose one or 2 more games, then drop into the relegation places, they would be relegated if the season was then unable to be carry on if there was a 2nd spike or too many players start to become infected.
@RichardLang05: Desperation


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Man United open talks with player 'offered' to Wolves - reports

Manchester United have reportedly made contact with Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot over a summer move to the Premier League .
Various reports in Italy have suggested Juventus are preparing to cash in on the 25-year-old in the upcoming transfer window and Gazzetta dello Sport claim United have been in contact with his mother Veronique , who acts as his agent , over a switch .
Rabiot has also reportedly been offered to Wolverhampton Wanderers as a potential makeweight in a deal to take striker Raul Jimenez to Turin .
Tuttosport claims both Rabiot and Italian defender Daniele Rugani - who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Wolves - could be offered to Nuno Espirito Santo in exchange for his number nine .
Rabiot , a five-time Ligue 1 winner with Paris Saint-Germain , only joined Juventus last summer but he has n't been able to nail down a starting XI spot under Maurizio Sarri .
He 's only made 24 appearances this season , including just 11 Serie A starts , which clearly makes him dispensable in Turin .
Rabiot 's talents are undeniable and Barcelona were reportedly interested in signing him prior to his move to Juve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into question several times .
Our sister title , the Manchester Evening News , reports United were monitoring Rabiot 's situation last summer before he joined Juventus .

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Manchester United have reportedly made contact with Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot over a summer move to the Premier League.
Various reports in Italy have suggested Juventus are preparing to cash in on the 25-year-old in the upcoming transfer window and Gazzetta dello Sport claim United have been in contact with his mother Veronique, who acts as his agent, over a switch.
Rabiot has also reportedly been offered to Wolverhampton Wanderers as a potential makeweight in a deal to take striker Raul Jimenez to Turin.
Tuttosport claims both Rabiot and Italian defender Daniele Rugani - who has previously been linked with a move to Wolves - could be offered to Nuno Espirito Santo in exchange for his number nine.
Rabiot, a five-time Ligue 1 winner with Paris Saint-Germain, only joined Juventus last summer but he hasn't been able to nail down a starting XI spot under Maurizio Sarri.
He's only made 24 appearances this season, including just 11 Serie A starts, which clearly makes him dispensable in Turin.
Rabiot's talents are undeniable and Barcelona were reportedly interested in signing him prior to his move to Juve, but his attitude has been called into question several times.
Our sister title, the Manchester Evening News, reports United were monitoring Rabiot's situation last summer before he joined Juventus.


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Paying to DITCH holidays for peace of mind backed by Martin Lewis

The whole point of a holiday is to help you relax away from the daily grind .
Or , as Virgin Holidays ' website says : `` It 's all about leaving your problems behind , relaxing , taking it easy . ''
But the prospect of taking up already booked holidays in the summer of 2020 is turning into a 'flightmare ' during the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic .
Especially now that some operators including JET2.com have announced their return to flying from mid June .
Holidaymakers are now considering the best way to achieve peace of mind is by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forfeiting their deposits .
And Martin Lewis from Money Saving Expert says that might not be a bad idea .
`` If the deposit is small and the balance is large , and you think you 're very unlikely to travel , taking this hit may be an easy option , '' he says .
Dr Hilary Jones says it 's not possible to social distance on a plane , telling TV host Lorraine Kelly : `` You can not socially distance or be safe on a plane cabin .
I 'm sorry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the aviation industry are absolutely decimated by this but , as a doctor , I think it 's too early .
Health comes first . ''
Birmingham-based father of two Mandeep Raj Nahar has already lost a pair of Virgin Atlantic flights to New York .
The airline cancelled the flights a month before he and his wife were planning to celebrate their tenth wedding anniversary from May 1 , but he said it would be 90 days before he received a refund .
`` At first I accepted the chance to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realised they were having trouble with their finances and changed my mind , '' says Mandeep .
`` I 've been told it could be 90 days for a refund , which is a long time .
`` Those flights were for our tenth wedding anniversary , a first holiday without our two girls , four and six , who were going to be looked after by a niece , a nurse with the NHS . ''
That experience alone has diminished Mandeep 's confidence in the travel industry .
Now , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flying again from June 17 , Mandeep is thinking hard about cancelling his holiday in mid-July to Bulgaria - even though he will take a financial hit to do so .
Mandeep , who works in the city centre for training specialists QA , says : `` We paid JET2 a deposit of £240 and have been told if we cancel we lose the deposit ... but I would rather lose the deposit than £2,000-plus .
`` The holiday is all-inclusive for myself , my wife and our two daughters , who could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so on .
We chose it partly because the transfer was n't long from the airport in Bulgaria .
`` But JET2 has not given us any guarantees about social distancing measures either on the plane or at the resort .
`` Do we hold on to the holiday and hope we can get a refund back ?
There 's no guidance and the balance is due on June 4 , which , to be fair , was put back from March 5 .
`` Everyone understands the problems companies are facing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` To be on the safe side , I 've cancelled the credit card so they ca n't just take the money .
`` My own nationwide training company has done a lot to help our corporate clients with needs .
`` But communication from the travel companies has not been great - too many people do n't know what is happening or if they are going to get their money back . ''
In answer to traveller concernts , the JET2 website has links which direct customers to the World Heath Organisation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK Government for the latest advice .
In answer to a question : `` Should I wear a facemask on the aircraft or in the destination I 'm travelling to ? ''
its answer on May 21 was : `` Public Health England ( PHE ) advises against using masks outside clinical settings .
PHE state that if you ’ re fit and well , with no symptoms , there ’ s no evidence wearing facemasks as a general prevention measure is helpful . ''
The coronavirus pandemic is nobody 's fault - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a better job of helping customers than others .
The Martin Lewis website Money Saving Expert says : `` Under EU flight delay rules , you 're entitled to choose between either a refund for the flight that was cancelled or an alternative flight - however , a number of airlines now appear to be pushing customers towards getting a voucher instead . ''
Julie Jones and her husband Tony , from Kidderminster , had two flights booked to attend their son 's planned April 10 wedding in Las Vegas - between them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ booked including one for a child .
The airline cancelled the flights in late March so the family expected refunds and has postponed any wedding indefinitely .
But despite what Martin Lewis says is the law , the Dutch airline has twice told BirminghamLive it will only offer a voucher valid for 12 months with the prospect of a refund after that - even though it has already had Julie 's £1,380 for a year already .
KLM told us : `` Faced with the exceptional circumstances created by the coronavirus/COVID-19 crisis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issuance of a refundable voucher constitutes a fair solution and a reasonable balance between the protection of their passengers and the operational realities that every airline has to face . ''
The Money Saving Expert website has many other similar cases .
It says : `` Ryanair ... has angered many passengers by sending them vouchers even when they 've specifically requested a refund .
We 've urged the Civil Aviation Authority and Trading Standards to investigate . ''
To compound the feelings of uncertainty , all of the above chaos follows the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company Thomas Cook on September 23 , 2019 as well as Flybe on March 5 , 2020 .
More and more families booking with a wide variety of companies are facing the stress of realising their dream break might cost them good money even if they stay at home .
Their predicament is a bit like the old game of 'Heads or tails ... you lose ' .
It 's just that the 64,000 dollar question now is deciding how much you might want to forego .
If you have already paid for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , do you hold your nerve and stick - in the hope an airline or travel company cancels first and does the right thing by offering you a refund ?
Or , especially if you are still paying by instalments , do you twist - and continue to pay up in the hope you are keeping a business afloat that will then refund you after your last roll of the dice ?
Always assuming of course , the holiday you no longer fancy as much as before Covid-19 , is cancelled by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hundreds of readers who responded to a question we posted on our BirminghamLive Facebook page , JET2 in particular has been very good at offering refunds if they cancel flights , other operators less so with many pushing vouchers that might only be valid for a year .
With the government currently recommending that workers avoid public transport like buses and trains , flying in an aeroplane and the prospect of potentially long waits in airport terminals sows seeds of doubt into people 's minds and has led some people to cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As an example of the 'stick or twist ' dilemma , Trisha Thomas told us : `` We 're due to fly with Ryanair on June 5 .
If I cancel now , I lose everything .
I just have to wait for them to `` cancel '' .
And Dawn Lee-Howard said : `` Was going to Crete Aug 28 for two weeks with TUI , called them and after eventually getting through asked them to cancel it and transfer the money on to a holiday I ’ ve already booked with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charged me £600 for doing it as I ’ d chosen to cancel not them . ''
The other option is to keep waiting and wondering if your holiday will be going ahead..
But if the holiday is on and you do n't go , you could lost the cost of your holiday if paid as well as the deposit .
And if you decide to travel simply to avoid being out of pocket , will your holiday be ruined anyway because you spend the whole of it worrying about your health ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ our BirminghamLive Facebook page about you attitude towards losing deposits .
Dawn Suzanne Wood : We lost our deposit by changing to next year and had to pay an admin fee but was to be expected we would n't have felt safe it it was to go ahead .
Natalie Morton : I ’ m happy to lose it , if I cancelled a dinner reservation I wouldn ’ t expect my deposit back .
Michele Wardell : We cancelled and lost half of our £500 deposit but in the grand scheme of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay until they officially cancel which could be just a few weeks before .
Darren Beanie Mervyn : Cancelled it , took a £200 hit , was n't gon na pay the 4k we owed .
Nicola Stocks : Cancelled summer holiday with VillaPlus and lost deposit .
Better losing hundreds than fighting to get thousands back .
The VillaPlus website says : `` If you 've booked a flight inclusive package holiday with us then you 're protected under the current Package Travel Regulations .
This means we can offer a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deferred 2020 travel date .
If we are unable to source an alternative destination or defer your travel date , you will be entitled to a full refund of the monies you have paid to us . ''
Michelle Darnbrough : Did n't pay full amount to JET2 .
Still lost deposit of £360 they said holiday was still scheduled to go ahead July 22 so ca n't refund !
Why should I pay £5.5k to get the full amount back ?
The JET2 webite says : `` We ’ ve decided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 17 , 2020 .
If you 're travelling before this date , unfortunately , your booking will be affected as our flights wo n't be operating .
We 're proactively contacting all affected customers in departure date order , which we think is the fairest way .
If you 're due to travel after 16 June 2020 , your booking is currently unaffected and there 's no need to contact us , as your flight will operate as normal . ''
Leona Jenkins : I had to cancel my flight to Birmingham in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me my money back .
The easyJet website says : `` If your flight has been cancelled ( i.e by them ) we understand that you may prefer a refund .
To apply for a refund you 'll need to fill in our refund application form . ''
Martin Lewis says : `` If the deposit is small and the balance is large , and you think you 're very unlikely to travel , taking this hit may be an easy option . ''
Here 's a selection of cases where readers feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carole Barnickle : Wish I could talk to a real person at TUI rather than the rolling recorded message .
6 of us were due to go last Monday .
When you finally get to the last recorded message , there must be six you are told please do n't call us we will call you .
They say they are handling cases in date order , it 's a joke .
Angela Rudge : Waiting for a refund from TUI supposed to have had it March , if you can get through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't get anyone with any common sense .
David Hill : Trying to get a refund with TUI is a joke .
Got my code but you ring up and they say they have big queues and cut you off .
Callum Bourke : Still waiting for a refund from TUI .
They were meant to refund us no later than 24 March and we still have not heard from them .
Currently holding £1000 of our money because they are busy processing cancellations .
LastMinute.com also owe us nearly £400 and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replied to emails , Twitter etc etc .
The TUI website says : If you ’ re unable to accept a refund credit ( which has a separate booking incentive up to 20 per cent ) you can apply for a refund ; due to the volume of holidays impacted , we ’ re asking you not to contact us until you receive your refund credit so we can continue helping customers in date order .
The LastMinute.com website has an illustration show how to get a ' '' refund '' , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how to use your `` redemption code . ''
It then adds : `` You can use it as many times as you want and for any available travel dates until its value is fully used ( or until its expiry date ) .
And if you 're already thinking about summer 2021 , you can book with your refund . ''
It is not clear whether a refund is a refund or simply an option to spend your money on something else .
Martin Lewis says of TUI : `` The rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one is cancelled , you 're due a full refund within two weeks .
Yet like many other travel firms at the moment , Tui 's making customers jump through hoops to get one . ''
Vaughan J Robertson : We paid £1,000 deposit on a villa rental , cancelled after the lockdown news ( before the balance was due ) .
Got less than £400 back .
Apparently admin fees , I won ’ t use Home Away ever again .
Had our car rental money back in full .
Still waiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As of May 20 , the Home Away website has ... no obvious coronavirus-related messages , its press releases stop in June 2018 and its Twitter page was last updated on April 23 when the message was : `` e can ’ t be with all of the people we love right now , and it ’ s hard .
Your next holiday will be well-deserved .
Until then , please StayHome . ''
Sam Nash : Don ’ t even get me started !
Virgin Holidays are an absolute nightmare and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now .
Virgin Holidays website says : `` Because of the extremely high volume of customers needing our help , please only contact us if you are flying in the next 72 hours .
Rest assured ; we will notify you as soon as we know if your holiday has been affected .
For further guidance specific to your situation , please visit Manage my booking ( link ) .
Darren Hemsley : We booked a holiday with Parkdean Resorts and they are refusing to pay us deposit back and or let us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubt we 'll book with them again after this .
The Parkdean website says : `` Our parks are currently closed up until & including July 5 .
We are contacting customers with affected bookings . ''
Margaret McMenemy : We have had no problem with Jet2 but Iglu the cruise travel agent is taking their time .
Iglu 's website says : `` If you have heard in the news , or from the cruise line that your cruise has been cancelled , we will be in touch - we are working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will contact you as soon as we can . ''
Vicki Evans : Ryanair cancelled our flights to Budapest promised a refund , completed the form as requested , then a few weeks later they offered vouchers , I don ’ t want vouchers as won ’ t know if or when I ’ ll want to go again , tried to get through on phone and online , in the end used Fb Messenger , apparently I ’ m in a refund queue , could take months to get my money back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cancelled with Ryanair in April still not even a response about when we will get a refund .
Now have another one to tackle for June just waiting for them to tell me it ’ s cancelled to start that off all over again .
The Ryanair website has a link which says `` New-corona-virus-covid-19 . ''
When you click on the link it says the page is `` off sightseeing '' and asks `` Why do n't you do the same ? ''
Sofia Choudary : Had flight booked to Islamabad from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It was cancelled still didn ’ t get anything back .
Turkish Airlines ' website has a section called refunds where it talks about adding Miles or getting voucher valid for a year and being worth 15 per cent more than your flight .
A link to Refund Request does not work .
When you find the page , it says : `` In accordance with the decisions taken by civil aviation authorities , your refund can be made after the flights return to normal .
We kindly advise you to apply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review the other advantageous options offered and create your request now . ''
Zahid Majid Attari : Emirates cancelled our flights from Islamabad to Dubai still waiting for refund .
The Emirates website says : `` You can request a refund or travel voucher if your flight hasn ’ t been cancelled .
However , if your request is not related to the current COVID-19 situation , the refund or voucher amount will be processed according to the fare rules available on your ticket .
A change fee and/or a difference in fare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change the date or destination of your booking . ''
On April 14 , The Independent 's travel editor Simon Calder wrote : `` When an airline cancels a flight on an itinerary starting in Britain or the European Union , it must refund the fare in full within a week of the planned departure date .
`` Passengers who have tickets issued before May 31 , 2020 , for travel before August 31 , 2020 , can apply immediately for a refund .
`` Travellers are able to ask for their money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accepted a voucher or opted to keep their ticket for future journey . ''
Mazar Iqbal : Remember if u they cancel they have to give u a refund by law but if u cancel then there are procedures which u have to go through to get some money out of it ... it 's best for u to wait and let them cancel closer to date ...
I had a ticket cancelled and got a refund .
Lizzie Linton : I didn ’ t cancel , my tour operator did .
Was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Full refund within two working days .
Jade Hobley : If you cancel of course the company wo n't pay its like saying you do n't want to go , they do n't know what the country is going to say weather there letting people in or not or what 's happening with Covid-19 .
Wait for them to cancel and if your protected they have to give you your money back !
Lyn Pemberton : I think just about everybody has had their holiday cancelled !
You should get a full refund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michelle Greatrex : To save losing my deposit I 've moved my holiday to a break next year .
Was going to Zante for two weeks at the end of July but did n't want to pay the full amount so just amended it for a mini break to Tenerife next may .
Thought First Choice would charge me for doing it as website said they would but they did n't and feel so much better as I was proper stressing about abroad hols for this year .
Craig Wright : The priority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airports , airplanes and hotels/resorts are going to be rife with people from all around the world and without the proper testing in place why would you even consider ( a holiday ) ?
Maureen Rahman : Booked to go to Turkey in March - got all money back .
Quoted the legislation that covers holidays in an email .
Joanne Louise : Were supposed to be going to Florida for my hubby ’ s 50th in August ( six of us ) Ocean Florida UK who we booked through have let us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we would have lost £2,500 deposit Paul Evans : We had to rearrange for next year they did not want us to have our money back - tui Rina Khatun : Please do n't cancel , let them cancel that way you get your full money back .
Carol Ann Biddulph : If you cancel 70 days before you only lose deposit I think Google it on JET2 website .

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The whole point of a holiday is to help you relax away from the daily grind.
Or, as Virgin Holidays' website says: "It's all about leaving your problems behind, relaxing, taking it easy."
But the prospect of taking up already booked holidays in the summer of 2020 is turning into a 'flightmare' during the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic.
Especially now that some operators including JET2.com have announced their return to flying from mid June.
Holidaymakers are now considering the best way to achieve peace of mind is by paying NOT to go away - by forfeiting their deposits.
And Martin Lewis from Money Saving Expert says that might not be a bad idea.
"If the deposit is small and the balance is large, and you think you're very unlikely to travel, taking this hit may be an easy option," he says.
Dr Hilary Jones says it's not possible to social distance on a plane, telling TV host Lorraine Kelly: "You cannot socially distance or be safe on a plane cabin. I'm sorry.
"I know the tourism industry and the aviation industry are absolutely decimated by this but, as a doctor, I think it's too early. Health comes first."
(Image: Courtesy of Mandeep Raj Nahar)
Case study
Birmingham-based father of two Mandeep Raj Nahar has already lost a pair of Virgin Atlantic flights to New York.
The airline cancelled the flights a month before he and his wife were planning to celebrate their tenth wedding anniversary from May 1, but he said it would be 90 days before he received a refund.
"At first I accepted the chance to rearrange within a year but then I realised they were having trouble with their finances and changed my mind," says Mandeep.
"I've been told it could be 90 days for a refund, which is a long time.
"Those flights were for our tenth wedding anniversary, a first holiday without our two girls, four and six, who were going to be looked after by a niece, a nurse with the NHS."
That experience alone has diminished Mandeep's confidence in the travel industry.
Now, although JET2.com has announced it is to begin flying again from June 17, Mandeep is thinking hard about cancelling his holiday in mid-July to Bulgaria - even though he will take a financial hit to do so.
Mandeep, who works in the city centre for training specialists QA, says: "We paid JET2 a deposit of £240 and have been told if we cancel we lose the deposit ... but I would rather lose the deposit than £2,000-plus.
"The holiday is all-inclusive for myself, my wife and our two daughters, who could have joined kids' clubs there and so on. We chose it partly because the transfer wasn't long from the airport in Bulgaria.
"But JET2 has not given us any guarantees about social distancing measures either on the plane or at the resort.
(Image: Darren Quinton)
"Do we hold on to the holiday and hope we can get a refund back? There's no guidance and the balance is due on June 4, which, to be fair, was put back from March 5.
"Everyone understands the problems companies are facing, but we need information, too.
"To be on the safe side, I've cancelled the credit card so they can't just take the money.
"My own nationwide training company has done a lot to help our corporate clients with needs.
"But communication from the travel companies has not been great - too many people don't know what is happening or if they are going to get their money back."
In answer to traveller concerns, the JET2 website has links which direct customers to the World Heath Organisation and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office / UK Government for the latest advice.
In answer to a question: "Should I wear a facemask on the aircraft or in the destination I'm travelling to?" its answer on May 21 was: "Public Health England (PHE) advises against using masks outside clinical settings. PHE state that if you’re fit and well, with no symptoms, there’s no evidence wearing facemasks as a general prevention measure is helpful."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Industry policy seemingly not watertight
The coronavirus pandemic is nobody's fault - but it appears some companies are making a better job of helping customers than others.
The Martin Lewis website Money Saving Expert says: "Under EU flight delay rules, you're entitled to choose between either a refund for the flight that was cancelled or an alternative flight - however, a number of airlines now appear to be pushing customers towards getting a voucher instead."
Julie Jones and her husband Tony, from Kidderminster, had two flights booked to attend their son's planned April 10 wedding in Las Vegas - between them, the family had six KLM seats booked including one for a child.
The airline cancelled the flights in late March so the family expected refunds and has postponed any wedding indefinitely.
But despite what Martin Lewis says is the law, the Dutch airline has twice told BirminghamLive it will only offer a voucher valid for 12 months with the prospect of a refund after that - even though it has already had Julie's £1,380 for a year already.
KLM told us: "Faced with the exceptional circumstances created by the coronavirus/COVID-19 crisis, Air France and KLM believe that the issuance of a refundable voucher constitutes a fair solution and a reasonable balance between the protection of their passengers and the operational realities that every airline has to face."
The Money Saving Expert website has many other similar cases.
It says: "Ryanair... has angered many passengers by sending them vouchers even when they've specifically requested a refund. We've urged the Civil Aviation Authority and Trading Standards to investigate."
To compound the feelings of uncertainty, all of the above chaos follows the collapse of the world's oldest travel company Thomas Cook on September 23, 2019 as well as Flybe on March 5, 2020.
Who'd be a holidaymaker?
(Image: Ryanair website)
Stick or Twist?
More and more families booking with a wide variety of companies are facing the stress of realising their dream break might cost them good money even if they stay at home.
Their predicament is a bit like the old game of 'Heads or tails... you lose'.
It's just that the 64,000 dollar question now is deciding how much you might want to forego.
If you have already paid for your trip and no longer fancy it, do you hold your nerve and stick - in the hope an airline or travel company cancels first and does the right thing by offering you a refund?
Or, especially if you are still paying by instalments, do you twist - and continue to pay up in the hope you are keeping a business afloat that will then refund you after your last roll of the dice?
Always assuming of course, the holiday you no longer fancy as much as before Covid-19, is cancelled by the operator to trigger the refund.
(Image: Graham Young)
According to hundreds of readers who responded to a question we posted on our BirminghamLive Facebook page, JET2 in particular has been very good at offering refunds if they cancel flights, other operators less so with many pushing vouchers that might only be valid for a year.
With the government currently recommending that workers avoid public transport like buses and trains, flying in an aeroplane and the prospect of potentially long waits in airport terminals sows seeds of doubt into people's minds and has led some people to cut their losses and count their blessings.
As an example of the 'stick or twist' dilemma, Trisha Thomas told us: "We're due to fly with Ryanair on June 5. If I cancel now, I lose everything. I just have to wait for them to "cancel".
And Dawn Lee-Howard said: "Was going to Crete Aug 28 for two weeks with TUI, called them and after eventually getting through asked them to cancel it and transfer the money on to a holiday I’ve already booked with them for next July.
"They charged me £600 for doing it as I’d chosen to cancel not them."
The other option is to keep waiting and wondering if your holiday will be going ahead..
But if the holiday is on and you don't go, you could lost the cost of your holiday if paid as well as the deposit.
And if you decide to travel simply to avoid being out of pocket, will your holiday be ruined anyway because you spend the whole of it worrying about your health?
Preferred to lose some money
This is what some of you told our BirminghamLive Facebook page about you attitude towards losing deposits.
Dawn Suzanne Wood: We lost our deposit by changing to next year and had to pay an admin fee but was to be expected we wouldn't have felt safe it it was to go ahead.
Natalie Morton: I’m happy to lose it, if I cancelled a dinner reservation I wouldn’t expect my deposit back.
Michele Wardell: We cancelled and lost half of our £500 deposit but in the grand scheme of things it’s a small price to pay until they officially cancel which could be just a few weeks before.
Darren Beanie Mervyn: Cancelled it, took a £200 hit, wasn't gonna pay the 4k we owed.
Nicola Stocks: Cancelled summer holiday with VillaPlus and lost deposit. Better losing hundreds than fighting to get thousands back.
The VillaPlus website says: "If you've booked a flight inclusive package holiday with us then you're protected under the current Package Travel Regulations. This means we can offer a refund, an alternative destination, or a deferred 2020 travel date. If we are unable to source an alternative destination or defer your travel date, you will be entitled to a full refund of the monies you have paid to us."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Michelle Darnbrough: Didn't pay full amount to JET2. Still lost deposit of £360 they said holiday was still scheduled to go ahead July 22 so can't refund! Why should I pay £5.5k to get the full amount back?
The JET2 website says: "We’ve decided to recommence our flights programme on June 17, 2020. If you're travelling before this date, unfortunately, your booking will be affected as our flights won't be operating. We're proactively contacting all affected customers in departure date order, which we think is the fairest way. If you're due to travel after 16 June 2020, your booking is currently unaffected and there's no need to contact us, as your flight will operate as normal."
Leona Jenkins: I had to cancel my flight to Birmingham in May but easyJet hasn’t given me my money back.
The easyJet website says: "If your flight has been cancelled (i.e by them) we understand that you may prefer a refund. To apply for a refund you'll need to fill in our refund application form."
Martin Lewis says: "If the deposit is small and the balance is large, and you think you're very unlikely to travel, taking this hit may be an easy option."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Going nowhere fast
Here's a selection of cases where readers feel they have been left in limbo.
Carole Barnickle: Wish I could talk to a real person at TUI rather than the rolling recorded message. 6 of us were due to go last Monday. When you finally get to the last recorded message, there must be six you are told please don't call us we will call you. They say they are handling cases in date order, it's a joke.
Angela Rudge: Waiting for a refund from TUI supposed to have had it March, if you can get through on the phone lines, you can't get anyone with any common sense.
David Hill: Trying to get a refund with TUI is a joke. Got my code but you ring up and they say they have big queues and cut you off.
Callum Bourke: Still waiting for a refund from TUI. They were meant to refund us no later than 24 March and we still have not heard from them. Currently holding £1000 of our money because they are busy processing cancellations. LastMinute.com also owe us nearly £400 and have not been in touch and have not replied to emails, Twitter etc etc.
The TUI website says: If you’re unable to accept a refund credit (which has a separate booking incentive up to 20 per cent) you can apply for a refund; due to the volume of holidays impacted, we’re asking you not to contact us until you receive your refund credit so we can continue helping customers in date order.
The LastMinute.com website has an illustration show how to get a '"refund", but then it has another graphic showing you how to use your "redemption code."
It then adds: "You can use it as many times as you want and for any available travel dates until its value is fully used (or until its expiry date). And if you're already thinking about summer 2021, you can book with your refund."
It is not clear whether a refund is a refund or simply an option to spend your money on something else.
Martin Lewis says of TUI: "The rules with package holidays are plain – when one is cancelled, you're due a full refund within two weeks. Yet like many other travel firms at the moment, Tui's making customers jump through hoops to get one."
(Image: TUI UK)
Vaughan J Robertson: We paid £1,000 deposit on a villa rental, cancelled after the lockdown news (before the balance was due). Got less than £400 back. Apparently admin fees, I won’t use Home Away ever again. Had our car rental money back in full. Still waiting on a refund on our flights.
A page last updated on HomeAwayUK's website on May 31 has the latest information on refunds and says they could take three to four weeks "to be applied to your account."
The same website's press releases haven't been updated since June 2018 and the company's Twitter page was last updated on April 23 when the message was: "We can’t be with all of the people we love right now, and it’s hard. Your next holiday will be well-deserved. Until then, please StayHome."
Sam Nash: Don’t even get me started! Virgin Holidays are an absolute nightmare and I’ve lost all faith in them now.
Virgin Holidays website says: "Because of the extremely high volume of customers needing our help, please only contact us if you are flying in the next 72 hours. Rest assured; we will notify you as soon as we know if your holiday has been affected. For further guidance specific to your situation, please visit Manage my booking (link).
Darren Hemsley: We booked a holiday with Parkdean Resorts and they are refusing to pay us deposit back and or let us transfer it til next year. I doubt we'll book with them again after this.
The Parkdean website says: "Our parks are currently closed up until & including July 5. We are contacting customers with affected bookings."
Margaret McMenemy: We have had no problem with Jet2 but Iglu the cruise travel agent is taking their time.
Iglu's website says: "If you have heard in the news, or from the cruise line that your cruise has been cancelled, we will be in touch - we are working through bookings in departure date order and will contact you as soon as we can."
Vicki Evans: Ryanair cancelled our flights to Budapest promised a refund, completed the form as requested, then a few weeks later they offered vouchers, I don’t want vouchers as won’t know if or when I’ll want to go again, tried to get through on phone and online, in the end used Fb Messenger, apparently I’m in a refund queue, could take months to get my money back.
Olivia Kelly: Had two flights cancelled with Ryanair in April still not even a response about when we will get a refund. Now have another one to tackle for June just waiting for them to tell me it’s cancelled to start that off all over again.
The Ryanair website has a link which says "New-corona-virus-covid-19."
When you click on the link it says the page is "off sightseeing" and asks "Why don't you do the same?"
Sofia Choudary: Had flight booked to Islamabad from Manchester with Turkish Airlines on March 27. It was cancelled still didn’t get anything back.
Turkish Airlines' website has a section called refunds where it talks about adding Miles or getting voucher valid for a year and being worth 15 per cent more than your flight. A link to Refund Request does not work. When you find the page, it says: "In accordance with the decisions taken by civil aviation authorities, your refund can be made after the flights return to normal. We kindly advise you to apply after the flights return to normal or review the other advantageous options offered and create your request now."
Zahid Majid Attari: Emirates cancelled our flights from Islamabad to Dubai still waiting for refund.
The Emirates website says: "You can request a refund or travel voucher if your flight hasn’t been cancelled. However, if your request is not related to the current COVID-19 situation, the refund or voucher amount will be processed according to the fare rules available on your ticket. A change fee and/or a difference in fare may also apply if you choose to change the date or destination of your booking."
On April 14, The Independent's travel editor Simon Calder wrote: "When an airline cancels a flight on an itinerary starting in Britain or the European Union, it must refund the fare in full within a week of the planned departure date.
"Passengers who have tickets issued before May 31, 2020, for travel before August 31, 2020, can apply immediately for a refund.
"Travellers are able to ask for their money back, even if they have already accepted a voucher or opted to keep their ticket for future journey."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Reader tips
Mazar Iqbal: Remember if u they cancel they have to give u a refund by law but if u cancel then there are procedures which u have to go through to get some money out of it ... it's best for u to wait and let them cancel closer to date ... I had a ticket cancelled and got a refund.
Lizzie Linton: I didn’t cancel, my tour operator did. Was offered credit voucher which I declined. Full refund within two working days.
Jade Hobley: If you cancel of course the company won't pay its like saying you don't want to go, they don't know what the country is going to say weather there letting people in or not or what's happening with Covid-19. Wait for them to cancel and if your protected they have to give you your money back!
Lyn Pemberton: I think just about everybody has had their holiday cancelled! You should get a full refund if booked before middle of March.
Michelle Greatrex: To save losing my deposit I've moved my holiday to a break next year. Was going to Zante for two weeks at the end of July but didn't want to pay the full amount so just amended it for a mini break to Tenerife next may. Thought First Choice would charge me for doing it as website said they would but they didn't and feel so much better as I was proper stressing about abroad hols for this year.
Craig Wright: The priority is to not get this virus and airports, airplanes and hotels/resorts are going to be rife with people from all around the world and without the proper testing in place why would you even consider (a holiday)?
Maureen Rahman: Booked to go to Turkey in March - got all money back. Quoted the legislation that covers holidays in an email.
Joanne Louise: Were supposed to be going to Florida for my hubby’s 50th in August (six of us) Ocean Florida UK who we booked through have let us change to August next year - otherwise we would have lost £2,500 deposit
Paul Evans: We had to rearrange for next year they did not want us to have our money back - tui
Rina Khatun: Please don't cancel, let them cancel that way you get your full money back.
Carol Ann Biddulph: If you cancel 70 days before you only lose deposit I think Google it on JET2 website.


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Grave fit for a George Cross hero at last after 73 years

The grave of a First World War Able Seaman later awarded the George Cross has been given a new headstone .
George Paterson Niven EGM / GC was born in Portobello , Edinburgh on March 15 , 1897 but died aged just 49 in Birmingham on February 2 , 1947 .
He was married in 1939 in Birmingham to Rosie Magdalen Post and in 1942 was flown to London to receive a George Cross medal alongside Anthony Cobham for their act of bravey on board HMS Devonshire on July 25 , 1929 .
The pair had originally each been awarded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but this would eventually be exchanged for the new George Cross in 1940 .
The son of Angus McKenzie Niven and Mary ( nee Gordon ) , his father was a Railway Signalman and George followed his career into the railways .
On August 17 , 1913 he then joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class at HMS Ganges .
During the First World War , he joined HMS Crescent and HMS Collingwood , and signed up for 12 year ’ s adult service in 1915 .
George was promoted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Great War , he served aboard HMS Revenge ( 1921-22 ) , HMS Glorious ( 1922-23 ) , HMS Valiant ( 1923-24 ) , HMS Hood ( 1925 ) and eventually joined the HMS Devonshire .
On July 25 , 1929 , HMS Devonshire was carrying out full calibre firing when at the first salvo there was a massive explosion in X turret , which blew off the turret roof .
Marine Albert Streams was the only man in the gun turret not killed or badly wounded .
He climbed to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking down and seeing the conditions , he climbed back into the smoke and flames , notwithstanding the grave risk of further explosions .
He then helped to evacuate the dead and wounded but , when all were removed , he collapsed .
Anthony Cobham GC then took stretcher parties , including Niven , aft and ordered one crew to follow him and the other to rig hoses .
On reaching the turret , they assisted the men who were on fire .
Cobham and Niven did what they could for them and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was still a lot of cordite burning fiercely .
George 's medals , also including a 1914-15 Star , British War Medal 1914-20 and Victory Medal 1914-19 , are privately held .
His last resting place in Yardley Cemetery is Section 58 , Grave 66438 .
Stourport-on-Severn based Mark Green runs a website called VConline which commemorates the recipients of the Victoria Cross , George Cross and US Medal of Honor .
The site lists 13 recipients of the George Cross whose surname began with the letter ' N ' and George @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on that page of whom there is no known photograph .
Together with Steve Davies , Mark began the journey to give George a headstone ten months ago .
Mark says : `` The grave was derelict and badly neglected .
We tried without success to find any surviving family and so approached the Birmingham City Council and Yardley Cemetery itself .
`` This exercise took a lot of time but eventually we received all permissions in February 2020 and then instructed local firm Loxley Memorials to make the headstone .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Association to fund the project and happily they agreed .
`` After 73 years George is now properly remembered and the grave is being returfed later this week . ''
The eight acre Yardley Cemetery was opened in 1833 to relieve the churchyard of Yardley Parish Church .
When Birmingham 's boundary was extended in 1911 , the cemetery was taken over by Birmingham Corporation .
A 35-acre extension in 1921 increased the size to 64 acres .
The crematorium was opened in 1952 with more than 1200 cremations in the first year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 1962 .
Full interments , burial or scattering of cremated remains continue to take place in private family graves and a Cremated Remains section was opened in 2009 .
The chapel can hold up to 166 mourners in normal times .
Birmingham City Council has imposed a limit of six people per funeral due to the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic .
This also means grounds will be closed to the public during operational hours , but open to visitors for two additional hours in the evenings after services have completed .
Visitors to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they will still need to practice social distancing in-line with government guidelines .
Current opening hours at Yardley Cemetery are from 4.30pm to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and from midday to 4pm at weekends .
On Bank Holiday Monday May 25 the grounds will be open from 9am to 4pm .

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The grave of a First World War Able Seaman later awarded the George Cross has been given a new headstone.
George Paterson Niven EGM / GC was born in Portobello, Edinburgh on March 15, 1897 but died aged just 49 in Birmingham on February 2, 1947.
He was married in 1939 in Birmingham to Rosie Magdalen Post and in 1942 was flown to London to receive a George Cross medal alongside Anthony Cobham for their act of bravey on board HMS Devonshire on July 25, 1929.
The pair had originally each been awarded an Empire Gallantry Medal (EGM) but this would eventually be exchanged for the new George Cross in 1940.
(Image: Courtesy of Mark Green)
Who was George Paterson Niven?
George was born at 3 Ramsay Place, Portobello, Edinburgh.
The son of Angus McKenzie Niven and Mary (nee Gordon), his father was a Railway Signalman and George followed his career into the railways.
On August 17, 1913 he then joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class at HMS Ganges.
During the First World War, he joined HMS Crescent and HMS Collingwood, and signed up for 12 year’s adult service in 1915.
George was promoted to Able Seaman later that year.
Following the Great War, he served aboard HMS Revenge (1921-22), HMS Glorious (1922-23), HMS Valiant (1923-24), HMS Hood (1925) and eventually joined the HMS Devonshire.
(Image: Courtesy of Mark Green)
On July 25, 1929, HMS Devonshire was carrying out full calibre firing when at the first salvo there was a massive explosion in X turret, which blew off the turret roof.
Marine Albert Streams was the only man in the gun turret not killed or badly wounded.
He climbed to the top of the turret but, on looking down and seeing the conditions, he climbed back into the smoke and flames, notwithstanding the grave risk of further explosions.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
He then helped to evacuate the dead and wounded but, when all were removed, he collapsed.
Anthony Cobham GC then took stretcher parties, including Niven, aft and ordered one crew to follow him and the other to rig hoses.
On reaching the turret, they assisted the men who were on fire.
Cobham and Niven did what they could for them and then went into the turret, where there was still a lot of cordite burning fiercely.
George's medals, also including a 1914-15 Star, British War Medal 1914-20 and Victory Medal 1914-19, are privately held.
His last resting place in Yardley Cemetery is Section 58, Grave 66438.
Grave restoration
Stourport-on-Severn based Mark Green runs a website called VConline which commemorates the recipients of the Victoria Cross, George Cross and US Medal of Honor.
The site lists 13 recipients of the George Cross whose surname began with the letter 'N' and George Niven is just one of three men on that page of whom there is no known photograph.
Together with Steve Davies, Mark began the journey to give George a headstone ten months ago.
Mark says: "The grave was derelict and badly neglected. We tried without success to find any surviving family and so approached the Birmingham City Council and Yardley Cemetery itself.
"This exercise took a lot of time but eventually we received all permissions in February 2020 and then instructed local firm Loxley Memorials to make the headstone.
"We asked the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association to fund the project and happily they agreed.
"After 73 years George is now properly remembered and the grave is being returfed later this week."
(Image: GRAHAM YOUNG)
What is Yardley Cemetery?
The eight acre Yardley Cemetery was opened in 1833 to relieve the churchyard of Yardley Parish Church.
When Birmingham's boundary was extended in 1911, the cemetery was taken over by Birmingham Corporation.
A 35-acre extension in 1921 increased the size to 64 acres.
The crematorium was opened in 1952 with more than 1200 cremations in the first year alone.
Yardley Cemetery reached burial capacity in 1962. Full interments, burial or scattering of cremated remains continue to take place in private family graves and a Cremated Remains section was opened in 2009.
The chapel can hold up to 166 mourners in normal times.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Opening hours
Birmingham City Council has imposed a limit of six people per funeral due to the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.
This also means grounds will be closed to the public during operational hours, but open to visitors for two additional hours in the evenings after services have completed.
Visitors to cemeteries and crematoria across Birmingham are reminded that they will still need to practice social distancing in-line with government guidelines.
Current opening hours at Yardley Cemetery are from 4.30pm to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and from midday to 4pm at weekends.
On Bank Holiday Monday May 25 the grounds will be open from 9am to 4pm.


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Incredible 'ecohouse' with amazing views is up for sale - in a town

An amazing five-bedroom lodge style home is up for sale in Stourbridge .
Known as the 'The Wordsley Eco House ' , the property is situated on the fringe of Green Belt countryside .
The bespoke eco friendly family home comes with stunning views to the front and rear overlooking four counties and five churches .
Wooden features throughout the property have been crafted using wood from the woodland behind the house .
Other features of this unique home are a separate utility area , gym and wine cellar .
This incredible house was first listed on to the market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £625,000 .
Keep up-to-date with all things bostin ' in the Black Country on our We Love The Black Country Facebook group - where you 'll get the latest news , travel , weather and events in your area .
If you think this stunning house could be your dream home , click here to find out more .
A snippet of the advert on Zoopla said : `` With no upward chain , this bespoke 'eco friendly ' detached three storey family home built in 2009 has stunning wooden features throughout ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wood from the woodland adjacent to the property .
`` To the ground floor there are two double bedrooms , shower room , utility room and gym/wine cellar .
`` A bespoke Sweet Chestnut staircase leads to the first floor that has open plan living accommodation with three definitive areas including lounge , dining room and kitchen .
`` This room has two sets of bi-folding doors leading out and with lovely views across the gardens , woodland and countryside beyond . ''

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An amazing five-bedroom lodge style home is up for sale in Stourbridge.
Known as the 'The Wordsley Eco House', the property is situated on the fringe of Green Belt countryside.
The bespoke eco friendly family home comes with stunning views to the front and rear overlooking four counties and five churches.
Wooden features throughout the property have been crafted using wood from the woodland behind the house.
Other features of this unique home are a separate utility area, gym and wine cellar.
This incredible house was first listed on to the market in January and will set you back £625,000.
Keep up-to-date with all things bostin' in the Black Country on our We Love The Black Country Facebook group - where you'll get the latest news, travel, weather and events in your area.
If you think this stunning house could be your dream home, click here to find out more.
A snippet of the advert on Zoopla said: "With no upward chain, this bespoke 'eco friendly' detached three storey family home built in 2009 has stunning wooden features throughout; all of which were built using hard wood from the woodland adjacent to the property.
"To the ground floor there are two double bedrooms, shower room, utility room and gym/wine cellar.
"A bespoke Sweet Chestnut staircase leads to the first floor that has open plan living accommodation with three definitive areas including lounge, dining room and kitchen.
"This room has two sets of bi-folding doors leading out and with lovely views across the gardens, woodland and countryside beyond."


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Ultra runner jogs epic Brum routes in the shape of a dinosaur and Elvis

With exercise being one of the few legitimate opportunities to get outdoors during lockdown legions of Brummies have taken to the streets to keep fit .
And just as frequent as the sight of more runners on the roads are the number of social media posts from people proudly showing off a map of their modest routes .
But now a Kings Heath school worker has gone not just one step further , but hundreds , by jogging epic 30-mile routes to create stunning pieces of art using exercise tracker app Strava .
Helen Pike , 46 , who is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Athletics and Triathlon ( BRAT ) Club , told BirminghamLive : `` I started doing them while we have been in lockdown .
I 'm in a triathlon club and each week they set us challenges .
About a month ago there was a challenge to do Strava art .
`` I had a go at a butterfly at first but it was n't that great .
I just put them on Strava for my friends to see them .
It 's a just a bit of fun really . ''
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after a friend posted them on Facebook .
Her latest runs have included an incredibly detailed dinosaur complete with its own teeth and even the king of rock ' n ' roll himself Elvis Presley .
Both routes took about 30 miles and more than four hours to complete around the likes of Kings Heath , Moseley , Shirley and Dickens Heath .
Although Helen , a mother-of-six and a grandmother-of-three , is used to running much further and had been training for the 145-mile Grand Union Canal Race from Birmingham to London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic .
She said : `` Sometimes I do have to double back on myself or I 've gone down a dead end just to turn back to make an eye or a claw or something .
I have had some people look at me like I 'm odd .
But it has taken me into all sorts of areas and I have found some really nice places . ''
The teaching assistant at Colmore Junior School , Kings Heath , photocopies ordnance survey maps , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ draws on top of them before hopping online to create the final route , which she is able to download to her watch .
She then sets off from her home on Bayston Road , typically around 5am in the morning while the streets are quiet .
Helen , whose latest Strava creation was a camel , is keen to highlight the benefits of running particularly during lockdown and said : `` I think more people should do it .
Since lockdown I have ran a lot more .
When you race it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is more that you feel you have achieved something .
`` When I have done the Strava art I felt like I achieved something and had something to show for it .
I think it is very important for your wellbeing .
I found very quickly when we went into lockdown if I did n't exercise I would have a bad day .
At school we run with the children every morning just so they have a good day . ''

With exercise being one of the few legitimate opportunities to get outdoors during lockdown legions of Brummies have taken to the streets to keep fit.
And just as frequent as the sight of more runners on the roads are the number of social media posts from people proudly showing off a map of their modest routes. But now a Kings Heath school worker has gone not just one step further, but hundreds, by jogging epic 30-mile routes to create stunning pieces of art using exercise tracker app Strava.
Helen Pike, 46, who is an ultra runner in the Birmingham Running, Athletics and Triathlon (BRAT) Club, told BirminghamLive: "I started doing them while we have been in lockdown. I'm in a triathlon club and each week they set us challenges. About a month ago there was a challenge to do Strava art.
"I had a go at a butterfly at first but it wasn't that great. I just put them on Strava for my friends to see them. It's a just a bit of fun really."
But the amazing creations have gained wider attention after a friend posted them on Facebook. Her latest runs have included an incredibly detailed dinosaur complete with its own teeth and even the king of rock 'n' roll himself Elvis Presley. Both routes took about 30 miles and more than four hours to complete around the likes of Kings Heath, Moseley, Shirley and Dickens Heath.
Although Helen, a mother-of-six and a grandmother-of-three, is used to running much further and had been training for the 145-mile Grand Union Canal Race from Birmingham to London next Saturday (May 25) until it was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
She said: "Sometimes I do have to double back on myself or I've gone down a dead end just to turn back to make an eye or a claw or something. I have had some people look at me like I'm odd. But it has taken me into all sorts of areas and I have found some really nice places."
The teaching assistant at Colmore Junior School, Kings Heath, photocopies ordnance survey maps, slips them in a plastic sleeves and draws on top of them before hopping online to create the final route, which she is able to download to her watch. She then sets off from her home on Bayston Road, typically around 5am in the morning while the streets are quiet.
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Helen, whose latest Strava creation was a camel, is keen to highlight the benefits of running particularly during lockdown and said: "I think more people should do it. Since lockdown I have ran a lot more. When you race it's not about where you finish it is more that you feel you have achieved something.
"When I have done the Strava art I felt like I achieved something and had something to show for it. I think it is very important for your wellbeing. I found very quickly when we went into lockdown if I didn't exercise I would have a bad day. At school we run with the children every morning just so they have a good day."


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Hangouts, home schooling and hugs - lockdown life as a single parent

Life in lockdown has raised new challenges for everyone during the coronavirus pandemic .
But the strain of trying to do it all as a lone parent is perhaps bigger than most .
Single mums and dads have been kept busy homeschooling , hosting playtimes , school Google hangouts , busy lunchtime prep and more .
And then there 's the issue of trying to explain why the world outside has stood still .
Here are the stories of some Midlands parents who are single-handedly caring for children in a world of COVID-19 .
Kohinoor Yasmin , aged 30 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , events manager and writer who has been an independent parent since 2017 .
She awakes at around 7am , breakfasts at 8am and has 15 minutes of meditation .
Opting for homeschooling means there are lessons for up to two hours a day but still plenty of play , both indoors and outside .
There is n't a single television in the family home but the children are kept busy throughout the day on lockdown - even ending in an hour of prayer and storytime before bed at 7.30pm .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with our loved ones , our friends and family members , '' said Kohinoor .
'It has impacted me greatly - and not in a positive way' '' We are very affectionate and , prior to lockdown , spent a lot of time at workshops , playdates and meets in town at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and Think Tank , among other places .
`` My children are very nature-centred , every Monday we would go to Forest School and meet up with other families and then go to the library @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their friends and a lack of quality human interaction hinders our emotional wellbeing .
`` But I continuously do positive affirmations with them and reinforce kindness and compassion through kind acts of charity and hugs - lots of hugs '' 'My children are falling behind on their classes' As a single mother , said she did 'not really ' receive much help , despite the generosity of the closest around her .
`` My brother has been very graciously dropping groceries every Saturday to us so we do n't need to go out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , friends check in on us or call us to check-in .
`` We were so used to going out four days of the week .
`` Now , being cooped inside , the children are finding it hard to understand why they have n't seen their friends in so long .
`` Video calls and Google hangouts are lifesavers right now . ''
`` It has left us feeling rather despondent and uncertain of our future in terms of traveling and restarting our workshops and visiting the city centre .
Ehi 'DJ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dudley is father of four-year-old Shyla-May , a property manager and founder of Birmingham club night Boxout Sundays .
A typical day for DJ Buxley is `` working the day job from home , entertaining and playing '' with his daughter , as well as colouring and doing `` creative work with her '' .
`` Undertaking my job and keeping her entertained at the same time has been the main challenge , '' he said .
`` Nursery had been a big part in terms of being able to go to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days a week has been an issue with childcare , especially if you live in a city where your relatives and parents are in London .
`` I ’ m quite proactive and don ’ t dwell on things , however I can imagine the added pressure could affect other people ’ s moods .
`` The routine of my daughter has changed .
`` Children ’ s routines have been changed , they are behaving differently too , which is shown through the child ’ s behaviour which the parent has to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we take for granted are the things that are actually the most important . ''
Sasha Johnson , 34 , is a stay-at-home mum of four from Hockley .
Using social media , she has developed her own mummy blog , inspiring women through their `` journey of self discovery . ''
`` I started co-parenting a very long time ago due to just growing apart , '' she said .
A typical day in lockdown in the Johnson household begins with everyone having breakfast , getting washed and dressed before schoolwork .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ work on Google classroom while the other two sit at their table to complete work school and nursery work , '' said Sasha .
`` That is done for two hours then they break for lunch and free time .
Once that is over it 's back to work for another hour and then everyone is free to do as they please .
`` The main challenge has been home-schooling as I have children at all different ages .
I do n't have a garden , which is problematic for my younger two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has taught me about patience and how valuable time is' However despite the challenges Sasha has found a silver-lining living in lockdown .
`` Lockdown has only impacted me positively , '' she said .
`` It 's allowed me to understand what level my children are at rather than taking the teacher 's word .
`` It 's allowed me and their father to instill more life lessons and spend time watching them develop .
`` It has allowed the kids to be more mindful and present .
It has been one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have spent valuable time together .
I feel like I have got to know my elder two children all over again . ''

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Life in lockdown has raised new challenges for everyone during the coronavirus pandemic.
But the strain of trying to do it all as a lone parent is perhaps bigger than most.
Single mums and dads have been kept busy homeschooling, hosting playtimes, school Google hangouts, busy lunchtime prep and more.
And then there's the issue of trying to explain why the world outside has stood still.
Here are the stories of some Midlands parents who are single-handedly caring for children in a world of COVID-19.
(Image: Kohinoor Yasmin)
Kohinoor Yasmin, aged 30 and from South Yardley, is a mother-of-three, events manager and writer who has been an independent parent since 2017.
She awakes at around 7am, breakfasts at 8am and has 15 minutes of meditation.
Opting for homeschooling means there are lessons for up to two hours a day but still plenty of play, both indoors and outside.
There isn't a single television in the family home but the children are kept busy throughout the day on lockdown - even ending in an hour of prayer and storytime before bed at 7.30pm.
"The hardest thing is not having human contact with our loved ones, our friends and family members," said Kohinoor.
'It has impacted me greatly - and not in a positive way'
"We are very affectionate and, prior to lockdown, spent a lot of time at workshops, playdates and meets in town at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and Think Tank, among other places.
"My children are very nature-centred, every Monday we would go to Forest School and meet up with other families and then go to the library afterwards.
"My children miss seeing their friends and a lack of quality human interaction hinders our emotional wellbeing.
"But I continuously do positive affirmations with them and reinforce kindness and compassion through kind acts of charity and hugs - lots of hugs"
'My children are falling behind on their classes'
As a single mother, said she did 'not really' receive much help, despite the generosity of the closest around her.
"My brother has been very graciously dropping groceries every Saturday to us so we don't need to go out," she said.
"Also, friends check in on us or call us to check-in.
"We were so used to going out four days of the week.
"Now, being cooped inside, the children are finding it hard to understand why they haven't seen their friends in so long.
"Video calls and Google hangouts are lifesavers right now."
"It has left us feeling rather despondent and uncertain of our future in terms of traveling and restarting our workshops and visiting the city centre."
(Image: Sasha Johnson)
Sasha Johnson, 34, is a stay-at-home mum of four from Hockley.
Using social media, she has developed her own mummy blog, inspiring women through their "journey of self discovery."
"I started co-parenting a very long time ago due to just growing apart," she said.
Follow Community Reporter Rakeem Omar Hyatt on social media Follow Rakeem Omar Hyatt on twitter here You can read more of his stories here You can email him on rakeem.hyatt@reachplc.com You can also keep up with his stories by liking his facebook page here Like the Birmingham Live Facebook page and follow @birmingham_live on Twitter
A typical day in lockdown in the Johnson household begins with everyone having breakfast, getting washed and dressed before schoolwork.
"My eldest logs in and completes work on Google classroom while the other two sit at their table to complete work school and nursery work," said Sasha.
"That is done for two hours then they break for lunch and free time. Once that is over it's back to work for another hour and then everyone is free to do as they please.
"The main challenge has been home-schooling as I have children at all different ages. I don't have a garden, which is problematic for my younger two as they are toddlers."
(Image: Sasha Johnson)
'Lockdown has taught me about patience and how valuable time is'
However despite the challenges Sasha has found a silver-lining living in lockdown.
"Lockdown has only impacted me positively," she said. "It's allowed me to understand what level my children are at rather than taking the teacher's word.
"It's allowed me and their father to instill more life lessons and spend time watching them develop.
"It has allowed the kids to be more mindful and present. It has been one of the best moments this year because we have spent valuable time together. I feel like I have got to know my elder two children all over again."