birminghammail--2020-06-07--Mills praises EFL for 'sensible' letter sent to West Brom and rivals

Danny Mills has praised the EFL for a 'sensible conclusion ' to talks over the rebate owed to Sky Sports .
According to the Telegraph , league bosses initially feared clubs would be forced to pay back up to £42m to the broadcaster because of how long they have been unable to show matches .
West Bromwich Albion were last in action three months ago , playing out a goalless draw against Swansea City that left Slaven Bilic 's side a point behind Leeds United in the table .
But the fee has reportedly been set at £10m , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side to tell them the agreed payment “ is less than half of the minimum rebate amount we initially advised to clubs.
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Google Play Store and App Store Mills , the former England international , told Football Insider : “ There has to be give and take on all sides .
It is incredibly important for this to work .
“ A lot of games will be free to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a huge bonus for fans – at least they still get the option to watch their games for no extra cost .
“ They have got their heads together and it has been a sensible conclusion for everybody involved with the EFL.
” The rebate will be taken off broadcast fees in the next three seasons and in return for settling to a lower amount , Sky have been granted the rights to show an extra 10 live Championship matches this term .
Albion , who are six points ahead of third-placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their promotion bid which gets back underway with a derby clash against Birmingham City .
The season is set to resume on Saturday , June 20 and every Championship team has nine matches left to play .

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Danny Mills has praised the EFL for a 'sensible conclusion' to talks over the rebate owed to Sky Sports.
According to the Telegraph, league bosses initially feared clubs would be forced to pay back up to £42m to the broadcaster because of how long they have been unable to show matches.
West Bromwich Albion were last in action three months ago, playing out a goalless draw against Swansea City that left Slaven Bilic's side a point behind Leeds United in the table.
But the fee has reportedly been set at £10m, with EFL chairman Rick Parry writing to every side to tell them the agreed payment “is less than half of the minimum rebate amount we initially advised to clubs.”
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 .
Mills, the former England international, told Football Insider: “There has to be give and take on all sides. It is incredibly important for this to work.
“A lot of games will be free to air for season ticket holders so that is a huge bonus for fans – at least they still get the option to watch their games for no extra cost.
“They have got their heads together and it has been a sensible conclusion for everybody involved with the EFL.”
The rebate will be taken off broadcast fees in the next three seasons and in return for settling to a lower amount, Sky have been granted the rights to show an extra 10 live Championship matches this term.
Albion, who are six points ahead of third-placed Fulham, are gearing up to complete their promotion bid which gets back underway with a derby clash against Birmingham City.
The season is set to resume on Saturday, June 20 and every Championship team has nine matches left to play.


birminghammail--2020-06-07--The rising star linked with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Arsenal

Wolverhampton Wanderers have made an enquiry into the availability of Juventus defender Daniele Rugani , according to reports .
Italian website Tuttosport claim Wolves are keen on the 25-year-old having also been linked with him last summer .
They also suggest Arsenal are interested in a centre back who has not been afraid to tread his own path through football .
Centre half Rugani is on the look-out for a new club this summer after falling down the defensive pecking order at Juve .
He has played just seven matches in Serie A and the Coppa Italia for Juve this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competition for places that comes from the likes of Matthijs De Ligt , Giorgio Chiellini , Leonardo Bonnucci and Merih Demiral .
He has three years left on his current contract .
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Google Play Store and App Store Nuno is likely to look to strengthen his defensive options when the transfer window opens , with Ryan Bennett ’ s future uncertain .
Romain Saiss has been filling in alongside Conor Coady and fit again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Rugani is certainly a player Wolves know all about having been linked with a £30m move for him last summer .
The latest enquiry is said to be around £18m .
What have his managers said about him ?
The former Chelsea boss has had him as a youngster at Empoli when in 2015 he said : “ Rugani is ready for any European club .
He is strong from all points of view , has outstanding mentality , and possesses incredible desire to improve.
” Since the pair have been reunited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoken louder than words this season though – he ’ s barely used him .
The former Juve coach was another admirer and said : “ Rugani ?
Daniele is one of the best centre-backs in Italy and one of the best in Europe .
In Italy we still have the best.
” However , he too preferred to pick more experienced players like Bonnucci , Chiellini and Medhi Benatia .
What ’ s he said about himself ?
He doesn ’ t lack in self-belief , nor the confidence to march to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2015 he described himself as the connoisseur ’ s centre back .
“ I ’ m less impetuous than others , more rational , I use my brain more than instinct , I try to read situations .
I fight little with referees and opponents , this also counts .
“ As a footballer I feel I am many years older .
I aim to perfect the technique , I never stop learning it .
I train alone in extra sessions : throws , stops , passes , I insist on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I haven ’ t drunk a coke for four years , not even to accompany the pastries offered by my companions in the locker room .
No snacks or junk food.
” In March he recovered from COVID-19 .
The Italian media report that Rugani has been learning English as he is keen for a move to the UK .
He and his partner are expecting their first child together and it is said hope to make the move to the Premier League once the baby is born .

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Wolverhampton Wanderers have made an enquiry into the availability of Juventus defender Daniele Rugani, according to reports.
Italian website Tuttosport claim Wolves are keen on the 25-year-old having also been linked with him last summer.
They also suggest Arsenal are interested in a centre back who has not been afraid to tread his own path through football.
What’s his situation?
Centre half Rugani is on the look-out for a new club this summer after falling down the defensive pecking order at Juve.
He has played just seven matches in Serie A and the Coppa Italia for Juve this term, struggling for minutes amid intense competition for places that comes from the likes of Matthijs De Ligt, Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonnucci and Merih Demiral.
He has three years left on his current contract.
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
Where do Wolves stand?
Nuno is likely to look to strengthen his defensive options when the transfer window opens, with Ryan Bennett’s future uncertain.
Romain Saiss has been filling in alongside Conor Coady and fit again Willy Boly in Wolves' back three.
Rugani is certainly a player Wolves know all about having been linked with a £30m move for him last summer. The latest enquiry is said to be around £18m.
What have his managers said about him?
Maurizio Sarri
The former Chelsea boss has had him as a youngster at Empoli when in 2015 he said: “Rugani is ready for any European club. He is strong from all points of view, has outstanding mentality, and possesses incredible desire to improve.”
Since the pair have been reunited at Juve though, his actions have spoken louder than words this season though – he’s barely used him.
Max Allegri
The former Juve coach was another admirer and said: “Rugani? Daniele is one of the best centre-backs in Italy and one of the best in Europe. In Italy we still have the best.”
However, he too preferred to pick more experienced players like Bonnucci, Chiellini and Medhi Benatia.
What’s he said about himself?
He doesn’t lack in self-belief, nor the confidence to march to a different beat. In an interview in 2015 he described himself as the connoisseur’s centre back.
“I’m less impetuous than others , more rational, I use my brain more than instinct, I try to read situations. I fight little with referees and opponents, this also counts.
“As a footballer I feel I am many years older. I aim to perfect the technique, I never stop learning it. I train alone in extra sessions: throws, stops, passes, I insist on the left foot, the weak foot.
"I haven’t drunk a coke for four years, not even to accompany the pastries offered by my companions in the locker room. No snacks or junk food.”
In March he recovered from COVID-19.
The Italian media report that Rugani has been learning English as he is keen for a move to the UK.
He and his partner are expecting their first child together and it is said hope to make the move to the Premier League once the baby is born.


birminghammail--2020-06-07--Charles Bronson is now a Lord after family buy him plot of land in Scotland

The UK 's most notorious prisoner Charles Bronson has become a lord after his family bought him a piece of land near Galloway , Scotland , reports Mirror Online .
A document claims the criminal `` may henceforth and in perpetuity be known by the style and title of Lord and shall hereafter be known as Lord Charles Arthur Salvador '' .
Bronson changed his name to Salvador after the artist Dali in prison .
But now the 67-year-old is officially Lord Charles .
In a letter , Bronson said : `` Says it all .
Me a Lord .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
`` OK well , next achievement is my freedom .
See you at the party . ''
According to Bronson 's son George Bamby , prison officers found the Established Titles deed , which cost £79.99 , so funny they even had it laminated and put up in his cell .
`` It just started out as a joke .
Dad was looking at land to buy for when he gets out , '' George said .
`` I saw an advert saying he could buy a tiny patch of land in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` He absolutely loved the idea of it and the fact that people would have to call him Lord .
`` When he told the screws they didn ’ t believe him , so when the document came through they put it up in his cell for him .
`` Some of them call him that now for a laugh – and he is loving it . ''
Bronson was first jailed in 1974 for seven years for armed robbery .
He was given a jail sentence n 1999 for taking a prison @ @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Bradley Jolly, Sanjeeta Bains)

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The UK's most notorious prisoner Charles Bronson has become a lord after his family bought him a piece of land near Galloway, Scotland, reports Mirror Online.
A document claims the criminal "may henceforth and in perpetuity be known by the style and title of Lord and shall hereafter be known as Lord Charles Arthur Salvador".
Bronson changed his name to Salvador after the artist Dali in prison.
But now the 67-year-old is officially Lord Charles.
In a letter, Bronson said: "Says it all. Me a Lord. You can’t make this up!
"OK well, next achievement is my freedom. See you at the party."
According to Bronson's son George Bamby, prison officers found the Established Titles deed, which cost £79.99, so funny they even had it laminated and put up in his cell.
"It just started out as a joke. Dad was looking at land to buy for when he gets out," George said.
"I saw an advert saying he could buy a tiny patch of land in west Scotland and get a title.
"He absolutely loved the idea of it and the fact that people would have to call him Lord.
"When he told the screws they didn’t believe him, so when the document came through they put it up in his cell for him.
"Some of them call him that now for a laugh – and he is loving it."
Bronson was first jailed in 1974 for seven years for armed robbery. He was given a jail sentence n 1999 for taking a prison art teacher hostage.


birminghammail--2020-06-07--What Barry said to Grealish after Villa vs West Brom friendly

Gareth Barry was full of praise for Jack Grealish after Aston Villa 's friendly victory over West Bromwich Albion , according to reports .
Villa faced Albion in a warm-up match at Villa Park on Saturday ahead of the Premier League and Championship seasons resuming later this month .
Dean Smith 's side , 19th in the table , return to action against Sheffield United on Wednesday June , 17 knowing a win will take them out of the relegation zone .
Albion , meanwhile , get their promotion bid back underway against Birmingham City with a date of June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restart .
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Google Play Store and App Store According to the Daily Mail 's report , the match ended 2-2 with Villa captain Grealish on the scoresheet .
Keinan Davis also scored as the hosts cancelled out goals from Kamil Grosicki and Filip Krovinovic .
And the Mirror reports Grealish was complimented by Barry after the final whistle , being told he was “ class ” and that he scored a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League 's all-time record appearance holder , played almost 450 times for Villa between 1997 and 2009 and joined the Baggies three years ago .
John McGinn also made his comeback for Villa with a 30-minute cameo as he steps up his recovery from a fractured ankle .

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Gareth Barry was full of praise for Jack Grealish after Aston Villa's friendly victory over West Bromwich Albion, according to reports.
Villa faced Albion in a warm-up match at Villa Park on Saturday ahead of the Premier League and Championship seasons resuming later this month.
Dean Smith's side, 19th in the table, return to action against Sheffield United on Wednesday June, 17 knowing a win will take them out of the relegation zone.
Albion, meanwhile, get their promotion bid back underway against Birmingham City with a date of June 20 pencilled in for Championship fixtures to restart.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
According to the Daily Mail's report, the match ended 2-2 with Villa captain Grealish on the scoresheet. Keinan Davis also scored as the hosts cancelled out goals from Kamil Grosicki and Filip Krovinovic.
And the Mirror reports Grealish was complimented by Barry after the final whistle, being told he was “class” and that he scored a great goal.
39-year-old Barry, the Premier League's all-time record appearance holder, played almost 450 times for Villa between 1997 and 2009 and joined the Baggies three years ago.
John McGinn also made his comeback for Villa with a 30-minute cameo as he steps up his recovery from a fractured ankle.


birminghammail--2020-06-07--Hundreds attend Wolverhampton and Dudley Black Lives Matter demos

Anti-racism protesters surrounded the bandstand in West Park this afternoon ( Sunday , June 7 ) in a show of solidarity .
It 's estimated there were around 1,000 people - most of whom were wearing face masks and holding banners and signs - gathered at the peaceful demo .
The event saw people of all races and ages come together to demand change following the tragic death of George Floyd .
This was the second protest to take place in the city this week , the first was held in Queen Square on Wednesday , June 3 , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their feelings known - as can be seen in the video below .
Prior to the rally , an emotional video was posted on Facebook by organiser Shereen Walker .
As she choked back tears , she said : `` There 's a lot of hurt and anger going around right now - and rightfully so .
This is n't easy and it 's a marathon , it 's not a race .
`` But the point of this video is to invite Wolverhampton to join myself and my brothers , Michael Dantzie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peaceful , static protest at West Park .
`` This is the same time and date as the peaceful protest outside the US Embassy .
The plan for the protest is for us to come together - safely , two metres apart - and I want to say their names .
I 've got a list of 300 plus names I want us to say as a community .
I want us to hear those names allow those names to affect us .
`` After we have spoken their names I want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take a knee and allow the injustice to sit on us .
For us to self analyse , check in with our bias , understand our responsibility to one another and then after the moment of silence , I want to pray .
`` I want to pray as a community , I want to pray for those protesting out in America , their families and our communities as well because we know things happen in the UK also .
`` This particular event is in solidarity with our brothers and sisters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give us an opportunity to look at ourselves and see how we can be better for one another . ''
A smaller protest took place at Dudley 's Coronation Gardens this morning .
As the photograph above shows , a policeman who was in attendance took a moment to reflect while on one knee .
Another woman was holding a sign which simply said : `` There comes a time when silence is betrayal . ''

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Hundreds of people attended a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Wolverhampton.
Anti-racism protesters surrounded the bandstand in West Park this afternoon (Sunday, June 7) in a show of solidarity.
It's estimated there were around 1,000 people - most of whom were wearing face masks and holding banners and signs - gathered at the peaceful demo.
The event saw people of all races and ages come together to demand change following the tragic death of George Floyd.
This was the second protest to take place in the city this week, the first was held in Queen Square on Wednesday, June 3, where around 100 braved the rain to make their feelings known - as can be seen in the video below.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Prior to the rally, an emotional video was posted on Facebook by organiser Shereen Walker.
As she choked back tears, she said: "There's a lot of hurt and anger going around right now - and rightfully so. This isn't easy and it's a marathon, it's not a race.
"But the point of this video is to invite Wolverhampton to join myself and my brothers, Michael Dantzie and Elder Mark Langston, for a peaceful, static protest at West Park.
"This is the same time and date as the peaceful protest outside the US Embassy. The plan for the protest is for us to come together - safely, two metres apart - and I want to say their names. I've got a list of 300 plus names I want us to say as a community. I want us to hear those names allow those names to affect us.
"After we have spoken their names I want to take a moment of silence for us to take a knee and allow the injustice to sit on us. For us to self analyse, check in with our bias, understand our responsibility to one another and then after the moment of silence, I want to pray.
"I want to pray as a community, I want to pray for those protesting out in America, their families and our communities as well because we know things happen in the UK also.
"This particular event is in solidarity with our brothers and sisters over in the States and it'll give us an opportunity to look at ourselves and see how we can be better for one another."
(Image: Sam Cullinane)
A smaller protest took place at Dudley's Coronation Gardens this morning.
As the photograph above shows, a policeman who was in attendance took a moment to reflect while on one knee.
Another woman was holding a sign which simply said: "There comes a time when silence is betrayal."


birminghammail--2020-06-07--Adama Traore transfer claim creates Liverpool excitement

Liverpool are preparing a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore in the next transfer window , according to reports .
The Spaniard is gearing up to return to Premier League action with Wolves in a fortnight but speculation surrounding his future continues to rage .
Traore is enjoying a brilliant season with six goals and 12 assists in 43 appearances , taking his game to a new level under Nuno Espirito Santo .
There have been widespread reports that clubs across Europe are keen on the 24-year-old , who joined Wolves from Middlesbrough for £18m two years ago .
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Google Play Store and App Store Liverpool are the side most heavily linked and according to the Mirror , the Premier League champions elect are ready to make their move .
The report states Jurgen Klopp 's side have already made an enquiry to Wolves about Traore 's availability ahead of this summer 's window .
Wolves have no desire to sell but the update has created excitement among Liverpool fans , with one saying : `` This would be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Another on social media added : `` Would 100 % prefer him over Werner .
Reckon Klopp turns him into a superstar . ''
`` Give them Harry Wilson , plus £25m and that ’ s a deal , '' said a third .
One supporter claimed : `` He ’ s a beast and improved from when he first came into the Wolves team .
Klopp would turn him into one of the most feared players in Europe definitely in the Premier League . ''
`` I ’ d take him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said a fifth .

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Liverpool are preparing a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore in the next transfer window, according to reports.
The Spaniard is gearing up to return to Premier League action with Wolves in a fortnight but speculation surrounding his future continues to rage.
Traore is enjoying a brilliant season with six goals and 12 assists in 43 appearances, taking his game to a new level under Nuno Espirito Santo.
There have been widespread reports that clubs across Europe are keen on the 24-year-old, who joined Wolves from Middlesbrough for £18m two years ago.
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
Liverpool are the side most heavily linked and according to the Mirror, the Premier League champions elect are ready to make their move.
The report states Jurgen Klopp's side have already made an enquiry to Wolves about Traore's availability ahead of this summer's window.
Wolves have no desire to sell but the update has created excitement among Liverpool fans, with one saying: "This would be a banging signing not gonna lie."
Another on social media added: "Would 100% prefer him over Werner. Reckon Klopp turns him into a superstar."
"Give them Harry Wilson, plus £25m and that’s a deal," said a third.
One supporter claimed: "He’s a beast and improved from when he first came into the Wolves team. Klopp would turn him into one of the most feared players in Europe definitely in the Premier League."
"I’d take him big time...great addition," said a fifth.


birminghammail--2020-06-07--Easyjet summer sale offering flights to Spain from just £18.49

Budget airline Easyjet has launched its biggest ever summer sale .
Lucky Brits could snap up flights from just £18.49 , Mirror Online reports .
Sales from one million seats to holiday hotspots across Europe between July 1 and 31 October 31 2020 , are up for grabs .
Other deals include Menorca from £18.49 , Santorini in Greece from £24.99 and Alicante from £24.99 .
The Luton-based carrier said it plans to fly 50 % of its 1022 routes in July and 75 % in August , although with a lower frequency of flights equating to around 30 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although there will be fewer flights , holidaymakers will have the choice of flights to places such as Paris , Milan and Rome , the Balearics and Canary Islands , as well as Italy , Croatia and Portugal .
Flights are also available for Egypt and Morocco .
Robert Carey , EasyJet 's Chief Commercial and Planning Officer said : “ We are delighted to announce that we will be flying the majority of our route network across Europe , meaning customers can still get to their chosen destination for their summer holidays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passionate about helping our customers get back flying , which is why we ’ re offering one million seats at £29.99 for those planning on booking a holiday this summer .
`` Travel restrictions are being lifted and demand is starting to return , so there ’ s no better time for us to introduce this sale.
” The airline has confirmed that some flights will initially resume from the 15 June including from London Gatwick , Bristol , Birmingham , Liverpool , Newcastle , Edinburgh , Glasgow , Inverness and Belfast in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has teamed up with superhero illustrator to create comic book inspired face mask covers for children flying this summer .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Andy Rudd, Sanjeeta Bains)

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Budget airline Easyjet has launched its biggest ever summer sale.
Lucky Brits could snap up flights from just £18.49, Mirror Online reports.
Sales from one million seats to holiday hotspots across Europe between July 1 and 31 October 31 2020, are up for grabs.
Other deals include Menorca from £18.49, Santorini in Greece from £24.99 and Alicante from £24.99.
The Luton-based carrier said it plans to fly 50% of its 1022 routes in July and 75% in August, although with a lower frequency of flights equating to around 30% of normal July to September capacity.
(Image: Getty Images)
Although there will be fewer flights, holidaymakers will have the choice of flights to places such as Paris, Milan and Rome, the Balearics and Canary Islands, as well as Italy, Croatia and Portugal.
Flights are also available for Egypt and Morocco.
Robert Carey, EasyJet's Chief Commercial and Planning Officer said: “We are delighted to announce that we will be flying the majority of our route network across Europe, meaning customers can still get to their chosen destination for their summer holidays this year.
“We’re passionate about helping our customers get back flying, which is why we’re offering one million seats at £29.99 for those planning on booking a holiday this summer.
"Travel restrictions are being lifted and demand is starting to return, so there’s no better time for us to introduce this sale.”
The airline has confirmed that some flights will initially resume from the 15 June including from London Gatwick, Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Belfast in the UK.
Easyjet has also announced it has teamed up with superhero illustrator to create comic book inspired face mask covers for children flying this summer.


birminghammail--2020-06-07--Man Utd fans pile in after Jack Grealish and Jadon Sancho report

Jack Grealish is now Manchester United ’ s No.1 summer transfer target , according to reports .
The Sunday Mirror claims Aston Villa ’ s skipper is top of the wanted list for boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer .
They say the 24-year-old playmaker has been at the centre of detailed due diligence and with cash at a premium this summer , United will prioritise Grealish over Jadon Sancho with Borussia Dortmund unwilling to lower their £100m asking price .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ andy_manutd1 : Does Grealish get into our starting 11 ?
I ’ m not sure he does .
# MUFC @ PujanggaMalam : Love the rumours linking # MUFC with Van De Beek .
I rated him along with De Ligt , when Ajax went on a good run last season and thought he reminded me of Scholesey in terms of ghosting into the box .
Would be much cheaper than Grealish though he offers another option on the wing .
@ manunited4everr : Maybe Bellingham said no , so now they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grealish and Sancho were main targets .
Don ’ t see that changing.. @ UTDNishid : Possible theory why # MUFC reignited their interest in Donny Van de Beek - • If Paul Pogba is staying , there ’ s no need for another creator ( left sided midfielder ) like Jack Grealish .
• Ole wants an aggressive number eight , instead , and hence our interest @ merlinthered : Here it comes people , he ’ s on his way to another club and Ed will try to say we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the press and social media @ Matt_utd14 : Naw we should be prioritising sancho @ normski2000 : Good , he was the best player on the pitch almost every match he played in the premier last season , we haven ’ t had much luck with Dortmund players Kagawa and Mykitarian both German player of the year both garbage .
@ wellcarryonthr1 : im telling u now all this van de beek talk is a ploy from united to get villa to lower there valuation for jack grealish # mufc # grealish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GREALISH real quick .
Imagine if we really dont sign Sancho and get only Grealish .
It will be MADNESS .
LMAO @ CheesyBanjo : I ’ d say this is a bluff by United .
If it isn ’ t and Grealish is our priority , serious questions need answering , about the ambition and direction the club is going !
@ raysmudgersmith : ‘ Still possible both join ... ’ Do me a favour , there is zero chance United will sigh both .
I ’ m yet to be convinced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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birminghammail--2020-06-07--Sunday morning terror as armed burglar ransacks home

Police swooped on a city home after it was allegedly ransacked by an armed burglar in broad daylight during the coronavirus lockdown .
Officers were called to the break-in on Stonebridge Crescent , Kingshurst , at 7.40am on Sunday morning , June 7 .
A large police van , dog handlers and officers were pictured at the scene as they conducted a sweep of the area .
A burglary suspect , said to be armed with a knuckle duster , was discovered during the search and arrested .
The 23-year-old was detained on suspicion of burglary and possessing an offensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in police custody on Sunday afternoon .
It is not believed anyone was injured in the burglary .
Officers took to Twitter to share the news of the arrest and said : `` ARREST .
The Rurals team along with @ ResponseWMP and @ WMPDogs responded to a burglary this morning !
`` After an area search , one Male was located fitting the description and was subsequently arrested under suspicion of burglary and possession of an offensive weapon . ''
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police added : `` We were called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7 June ) .
`` A 23-year-old man arrested on suspicion of burglary and possession of an offensive weapon remains in police custody today ( 7 June ) .
``

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Police swooped on a city home after it was allegedly ransacked by an armed burglar in broad daylight during the coronavirus lockdown.
Officers were called to the break-in on Stonebridge Crescent, Kingshurst, at 7.40am on Sunday morning, June 7.
A large police van, dog handlers and officers were pictured at the scene as they conducted a sweep of the area.
A burglary suspect, said to be armed with a knuckle duster, was discovered during the search and arrested.
(Image: WMP)
The 23-year-old was detained on suspicion of burglary and possessing an offensive weapon, police said.
He remained in police custody on Sunday afternoon.
It is not believed anyone was injured in the burglary.
Officers took to Twitter to share the news of the arrest and said: "ARREST. The Rurals team along with @ResponseWMP and @WMPDogs responded to a burglary this morning!
"After an area search, one Male was located fitting the description and was subsequently arrested under suspicion of burglary and possession of an offensive weapon."
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police added: "We were called to Stonebridge Crescent at 7.40am today (7 June).
"A 23-year-old man arrested on suspicion of burglary and possession of an offensive weapon remains in police custody today (7 June). "


birminghammail--2020-06-07--"The boys are excited" - What West Brom and every Championship club has said about restart date

The Championship will return in under two weeks after the English Football League confirmed the season will restart on June 20 .
The news has received mixed responses from each of the 24 second-tier outfits , who all have nine matches left to play .
For West Brom , there is a promotion charge on the line ; they ’ re sitting comfortably in second , with a six-point gap to Fulham , but they ’ ll need to see the Cottagers off in the run-in alongside Leeds United .
The pair have remained in the automatic promotion places for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Albion are prepared , too ; Slaven Bilic has already spoken of how impressed he ’ s been with the shape his players have returned to training in , after lockdown .
Whilst some have welcomed a return to action , others feel the 20th is too soon to prepare for competitive football .
Here is a comprehensive list of what each club , manager or board member , has said about the June 20 restart date .
He said : “ Whatever date you came up with would not please everyone ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point out faults .
“ I think that applies to so much in this situation .
Because of the number of games and also the play-offs at the end , the restart wasn ’ t going to be much later than June 20 with July 31 being the shut-off point .
“ But I don ’ t think it bothers us too much and I think the boys are all quite excited by it .
“ Looking at the players this week , I think they wouldn ’ t mind starting on Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ applied themselves at home and at the training ground.
” “ Is there going to be injuries ?
Sure there will be , ” the ex-England midfielder told talkSPORT .
“ Because you ’ re putting your body under some immense pressure and some immense training and games coming up .
“ I don ’ t think we can deny and we can ’ t hide from the fact that there is going to be issues , there is going to be problems .
There ’ s going to be many things .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ us as a football club need to understand that when we do kick off we need to be in the best place we can possibly be and I ’ m sure we will be.
” “ I think , first and foremost , we need to think about the bigger picture for society , ” he explained .
“ We know football is the more important of non-important stuff in the world .
Can we play the games , is it safe ?
I definitely think we should do that .
If not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most sensible situation and just deal with it .
“ Sometimes in life , it can be a little unfair , you need to move on and go again .
But I ’ d definitely prefer to play the games , we ’ re in a good place and we can ’ t wait to go out and try to compete again.
” “ We have been working towards June 20 for a while now , we have made no secret of that .
When the players started training last Monday , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get ready .
“ Some people do seem to have been surprised by this but they have been in the same meetings as I have .
“ I think the surprise was the announcement being made on Sunday night with just a few minutes ’ notice to the Championship clubs .
“ We are happy to start on June 20 and it gives everyone a date to focus on .
As a club we are thinking positively about this .
“ Our attitude is if that ’ s what we have to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We can ’ t wait to start playing again .
The lads were buzzing to get back to Failand and to now see the light at the end of the tunnel with a start date for matches is a massive boost .
“ I know a lot of tremendous work has gone on to get us to this point and I ’ d like to thank Mark Ashton and all involved .
“ What we can do as a playing group is ensure that we are in the best possible shape , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Blackburn game comes along and I can assure our supporters that we will be.
” “ Whatever plan was put in place , I think there would be pros and cons to it .
The obvious argument for the 20th , is it enough time to prepare , are we playing too many matches in too fewer days ?
“ If we went later , we ’ d be talking about affecting the start of next season , past the end of July which would add further problems with contracts and loans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there would be obvious pros and cons .
Our view is , this is what it is , don ’ t let it be a barrier and go for it.
” “ To get caught blind-sided last night , 40 minutes before the public are told , is just inappropriate .
“ We are all for finishing the campaign , but give us the time to prepare the players to avoid the injury risk .
We have to make sure we avoid the medical chaos in the injury room .
“ Now suddenly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we get told that we are starting in less than three weeks which I just find to be ludicrous.
” “ In my opinion , from a welfare point of view and from what we ’ ve believed all the way through in what we were doing - we ’ ve always believed we were working a week behind the Premier League - so I think that should happen .
“ Whether we have a say in that remains to be seen .
You ’ d like to think it would happen .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ what I can control and , now that it ’ s been announced , we have to try to prepare the players as best we can to start on 20 June .
“ I understand the reasons why the EFL want to start on that day , but I think it is unfair on us , in terms of the Premier League are starting on that day .
“ They ’ ve had longer in contact training , a longer period in training than we have .
Of course , we would like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been the consensus .
Hopefully , common sense prevails.
” “ That ’ s the news we ’ ve been waiting for , ” said Woodgate .
“ As a club we ’ ve made no secret of the fact that we wanted to restart the season when it is deemed safe enough to do so .
“ We ’ ve followed the guidance of the authorities all along , and will continue to do so .
“ It isn ’ t a lot of time , but the players worked to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back here last week .
“ We ’ d had June 20 in mind as a possible to return and were already working towards that date .
“ We had a good week last week and we ’ ll step things up this week , and keep moving forwards now.
” “ I think at this club we ’ ll be ready if that ’ s the 20th June confirmed .
We ’ ll be ready and if we have to play nine games in five weeks , I don ’ t see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides these days have large squads .
A lot of Championship squads have 30-plus pros available , so it might be a case of having to use more players .
“ Some players might not be able to play .
If it ’ s six games in three weeks , or whatever , it may be that some players might not be able to play that , but I think Championship clubs have enough resources and players available to get through this difficult period .
“ Certainly , speaking to this group of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a squad for the next nine games , I can ’ t see it being a problem.
” “ It does seem a bit rushed .
We would prefer maybe an extra week or two .
“ We started training a week later than the Premier League but we seem to be starting at the same time .
“ We would prefer a little bit more time to try and get the players up to real speed , but it is what it is .
We ’ ll try our best and get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It is a huge challenge physically and we are working hard with the players to make them robust , to cope with that .
“ We have looked at the Bundesliga too about how many injuries they have picked up .
That is the nature of playing so many games in such a short space of time .
We are trying to learn from them .
“ So it ’ s really important we get the whole group in a really good physical condition so they can all contribute and prepare the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel without supporters.
” “ When we get a bit more time , of course it is better for me and my whole team .
“ But right now , they told us that we begin on the 20th of June and it is a fact .
We have two-and-a-half weeks and I will give my best to prepare my boys .
“ We will not lose energy with other topics and we need a high spirit every time we come together in training.
” ( edited )

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Joseph Chapman, Elliott Jackson)

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The Championship will return in under two weeks after the English Football League confirmed the season will restart on June 20.
The news has received mixed responses from each of the 24 second-tier outfits, who all have nine matches left to play.
For West Brom, there is a promotion charge on the line; they’re sitting comfortably in second, with a six-point gap to Fulham, but they’ll need to see the Cottagers off in the run-in alongside Leeds United.
The pair have remained in the automatic promotion places for the most part of the campaign.
Albion are prepared, too; Slaven Bilic has already spoken of how impressed he’s been with the shape his players have returned to training in, after lockdown.
Whilst some have welcomed a return to action, others feel the 20th is too soon to prepare for competitive football.
Here is a comprehensive list of what each club, manager or board member, has said about the June 20 restart date.
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 .
West Brom - Luke Dowling (technical director)
He said: “Whatever date you came up with would not please everyone; someone would be unhappy about it or point out faults.
“I think that applies to so much in this situation. Because of the number of games and also the play-offs at the end, the restart wasn’t going to be much later than June 20 with July 31 being the shut-off point.
“But I don’t think it bothers us too much and I think the boys are all quite excited by it.
“Looking at the players this week, I think they wouldn’t mind starting on Saturday which is testament to how they have applied themselves at home and at the training ground.”
Fulham - Scott Parker
“Is there going to be injuries? Sure there will be,” the ex-England midfielder told talkSPORT.
“Because you’re putting your body under some immense pressure and some immense training and games coming up.
“I don’t think we can deny and we can’t hide from the fact that there is going to be issues, there is going to be problems. There’s going to be many things.
“My players need to understand and us as a football club need to understand that when we do kick off we need to be in the best place we can possibly be and I’m sure we will be.”
Brentford - Thomas Frank
“I think, first and foremost, we need to think about the bigger picture for society,” he explained.
“We know football is the more important of non-important stuff in the world. Can we play the games, is it safe? I definitely think we should do that. If not, then we need to take the most sensible situation and just deal with it.
“Sometimes in life, it can be a little unfair, you need to move on and go again. But I’d definitely prefer to play the games, we’re in a good place and we can’t wait to go out and try to compete again.”
poll loading Who is going to win the Championship title? 3000+ VOTES SO FAR Leeds United West Bromwich Albion AN Other
Preston North End - Peter Risdale (Owner advisor)
“We have been working towards June 20 for a while now, we have made no secret of that. When the players started training last Monday, we knew they had about four weeks to get ready.
“Some people do seem to have been surprised by this but they have been in the same meetings as I have.
“I think the surprise was the announcement being made on Sunday night with just a few minutes’ notice to the Championship clubs.
“We are happy to start on June 20 and it gives everyone a date to focus on. As a club we are thinking positively about this.
“Our attitude is if that’s what we have to do, let’s do it.”
Bristol City - Lee Johnson
“We can’t wait to start playing again. The lads were buzzing to get back to Failand and to now see the light at the end of the tunnel with a start date for matches is a massive boost.
“I know a lot of tremendous work has gone on to get us to this point and I’d like to thank Mark Ashton and all involved.
“What we can do as a playing group is ensure that we are in the best possible shape, tactically, technically and mentally for when that Blackburn game comes along and I can assure our supporters that we will be.”
Swansea City - Steve Cooper
“Whatever plan was put in place, I think there would be pros and cons to it. The obvious argument for the 20th, is it enough time to prepare, are we playing too many matches in too fewer days?
“If we went later, we’d be talking about affecting the start of next season, past the end of July which would add further problems with contracts and loans.
“Whatever the EFL produced, there would be obvious pros and cons. Our view is, this is what it is, don’t let it be a barrier and go for it.”
Queens Park Rangers - Mark Warburton
“To get caught blind-sided last night, 40 minutes before the public are told, is just inappropriate.
“We are all for finishing the campaign, but give us the time to prepare the players to avoid the injury risk. We have to make sure we avoid the medical chaos in the injury room.
“Now suddenly last night, without any consultation, we get told that we are starting in less than three weeks which I just find to be ludicrous.”
Sheffield Wednesday - Garry Monk
“In my opinion, from a welfare point of view and from what we’ve believed all the way through in what we were doing - we’ve always believed we were working a week behind the Premier League - so I think that should happen.
“Whether we have a say in that remains to be seen. You’d like to think it would happen.
“All I can do is control what I can control and, now that it’s been announced, we have to try to prepare the players as best we can to start on 20 June.
“I understand the reasons why the EFL want to start on that day, but I think it is unfair on us, in terms of the Premier League are starting on that day.
“They’ve had longer in contact training, a longer period in training than we have. Of course, we would like the same and that’s always been the consensus. Hopefully, common sense prevails.”
Middlesbrough - Jonathan Woodgate
“That’s the news we’ve been waiting for,” said Woodgate. “As a club we’ve made no secret of the fact that we wanted to restart the season when it is deemed safe enough to do so.
“We’ve followed the guidance of the authorities all along, and will continue to do so.
“It isn’t a lot of time, but the players worked to their own programmes during lockdown, and came back here last week.
“We’d had June 20 in mind as a possible to return and were already working towards that date.
“We had a good week last week and we’ll step things up this week, and keep moving forwards now.”
Luton Town - Sonny Bradley (defender)
“I think at this club we’ll be ready if that’s the 20th June confirmed. We’ll be ready and if we have to play nine games in five weeks, I don’t see that being a problem.
“Championship sides these days have large squads. A lot of Championship squads have 30-plus pros available, so it might be a case of having to use more players.
“Some players might not be able to play. If it’s six games in three weeks, or whatever, it may be that some players might not be able to play that, but I think Championship clubs have enough resources and players available to get through this difficult period.
“Certainly, speaking to this group of boys, when it comes to fielding a squad for the next nine games, I can’t see it being a problem.”
Lee Bowyer - Charlton Athletic
“It does seem a bit rushed. We would prefer maybe an extra week or two.
“We started training a week later than the Premier League but we seem to be starting at the same time.
“We would prefer a little bit more time to try and get the players up to real speed, but it is what it is. We’ll try our best and get ourselves ready the best we can.”
Danny Cowley - Huddersfield Town
“It is a huge challenge physically and we are working hard with the players to make them robust, to cope with that.
“We have looked at the Bundesliga too about how many injuries they have picked up. That is the nature of playing so many games in such a short space of time. We are trying to learn from them.
“So it’s really important we get the whole group in a really good physical condition so they can all contribute and prepare the players psychologically for how the games will feel without supporters.”
Gerhard Struber - Barnsley
“When we get a bit more time, of course it is better for me and my whole team.
“But right now, they told us that we begin on the 20th of June and it is a fact. We have two-and-a-half weeks and I will give my best to prepare my boys.
“We will not lose energy with other topics and we need a high spirit every time we come together in training.” (edited)


birminghammail--2020-06-07--Mbwana Samatta lifts the lid on life and laughs at Aston Villa

If Aston Villa are to retain their Premier League status Mbwana Samatta will have a huge part to play over the coming weeks .
The Tanzanian international has become a crucial player since his January signing from Genk and everyone will be hoping he can build on his decent start and two goals .
He has returned to training with the rest of the Villa squad over the last fortnight and seems certain to be in the starting line-up against Sheffield United on Wednesday week .
And he has taken part in a Q & A with fans during which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life at Bodymoor Heath .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 Asked who is his funniest team-mate he picked Henri Lansbury .
“ There are a lot , ” he told AVTV .
“ For me I will go with Henri , I think he is funny , he is not talking much but whatever action he is doing everybody is laughing , he can say one word and everybody laughs.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a few but I will go with Marvelous Nakamba , he is a guy I meet outside the pitch as well .
“ He is a cool guy , he comes from Zimbabwe and I come from Tanzania it ’ s not far away , he knows the culture and he knows the struggle .
“ He is a good guy , he is quiet and I am quiet as well - and he is always positive that ’ s what I like from him.
” Samatta could find himself with many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back of the net against the Blades on June 17 .

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If Aston Villa are to retain their Premier League status Mbwana Samatta will have a huge part to play over the coming weeks.
The Tanzanian international has become a crucial player since his January signing from Genk and everyone will be hoping he can build on his decent start and two goals.
He has returned to training with the rest of the Villa squad over the last fortnight and seems certain to be in the starting line-up against Sheffield United on Wednesday week.
And he has taken part in a Q&A with fans during which he has given an intriguing insight into life at Bodymoor Heath.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Asked who is his funniest team-mate he picked Henri Lansbury.
“There are a lot,” he told AVTV. “For me I will go with Henri, I think he is funny, he is not talking much but whatever action he is doing everybody is laughing, he can say one word and everybody laughs.”
His best friend? “I have a few but I will go with Marvelous Nakamba, he is a guy I meet outside the pitch as well.
“He is a cool guy, he comes from Zimbabwe and I come from Tanzania it’s not far away, he knows the culture and he knows the struggle.
“He is a good guy, he is quiet and I am quiet as well - and he is always positive that’s what I like from him.”
Samatta could find himself with many more friends if he can find the back of the net against the Blades on June 17.


birminghammail--2020-06-07--Banged up: Round up of Birmingham criminals jailed this week

A bungling burglar , spitting father , supermarket carrier bag drug dealer and a convicted sex offender are getting used to life behind bars in the last few days .
This is our weekly roundup of some of the latest Midlands criminals to receive jail sentences .
James Ferrie , Jayon Foster , Michael Hayer and Simon Burrin make up this particular list .
Some may have officially received their punishments earlier only for police to publish the case results this week .
For the latest news and information on crimes throughout Birmingham join our Birmingham Crime Watch Facebook group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out for our monthly roundup of the major criminals handed prison sentences at the end of June .
Dopey burglar James Ferrie raided a house in Sparkhill - then tried to hide from police by lying next to a flowerbed outside .
The 32-year-old entered the property in December .
Police were alerted and searched the address , realising that the intruder had climbed out through the window in the rear store room .
They went outside and spotted Ferrie curled up next to the plants , discovering him 30 minutes after they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ break-in .
Ferrie admitted a charge of burglary and was sentenced to four years .
West Midlands Police publicised the case earlier this week , even though Ferrie actually learned his punishment on Thursday , May 28 .
Det Sgt James Birtles of Force CID , said : “ Although in this case nothing was taken , a home was broken into and we know how traumatic that can be for victims . ''
For the full story , click here Vile criminal Jayon Foster spat at a police officer after he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Police confronted the 37-year-old father and personal trainer on Church Hill Road on April 13 .
He had been drinking and claimed he had just left a barbecue when officers approached .
He was arrested and as he was being ushered in to a force car he spat in the face of one of the officers leaving them 'humiliated , degraded and concerned for his health ' , a court heard .
Passing sentence , Judge Mark Wall QC , said : `` This was in the middle of the current Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his victim statement , detailed how worried he was about what you did and the undesireability of germs being shared .
`` There was a risk in the middle of this crisis that you were going to communicate a serious disease to someone else which you may have had without realising it as is the nature of the disease . ''
Foster , of Aldridge Road in Perry Barr , admitted possessing a bladed article , assaulting an emergency worker and criminal damage .
He was jailed for one year .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dealer Michael Hayer was caught after police intercepted nearly £20,000 worth of cannabis being delivered to his address .
The drugs , which were destined for the 30-year-old 's home in Daimler Close , Stafford , were discovered by Border Force officers on March 18 .
His home was then raided in April with police finding Class A and B substances in supermarket carrier bags , valued at more than £18,000 - potentially more if divided into street deals .
Drug bags and mobile phones with evidence of illegal transactions were also seized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis at Stafford Crown Court .
This week Staffordshire Police revealed he had been jailed for four years , after receiving his sentence on Friday , May 29 .
For the full story , click here Convicted sex offender Simon Burrin allowed a schoolboy to stay at his flat after meeting him on gay dating app Grindr .
The victim , aged 14 , admitted to police he initially told Burrin that he was a 19-year-old student working at a KFC restaurant .
He went to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burrin tried to touch him , which he took as an attempt at sexual contact , but he refused .
The victim stayed there for three nights .
When police quizzed Burrin about it he denied he knew the boy .
The 40-year-old of Court Lane admitted charges of child abduction and failing to comply with the requirements of a sexual harm prevention order .
Burrin was jailed for two years and four months .
In 2018 he had been imprisoned for 10 months after admitting to meet a child under 16 following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watch a sexual act .
For the full story , click here

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A bungling burglar, spitting father, supermarket carrier bag drug dealer and a convicted sex offender are getting used to life behind bars in the last few days.
This is our weekly roundup of some of the latest Midlands criminals to receive jail sentences.
James Ferrie, Jayon Foster, Michael Hayer and Simon Burrin make up this particular list.
Some may have officially received their punishments earlier only for police to publish the case results this week.
For the latest news and information on crimes throughout Birmingham join our Birmingham Crime Watch Facebook group. Also do not forget to look out for our monthly roundup of the major criminals handed prison sentences at the end of June.
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James Ferrie
(Image: WMP)
Dopey burglar James Ferrie raided a house in Sparkhill - then tried to hide from police by lying next to a flowerbed outside.
The 32-year-old entered the property in December. Police were alerted and searched the address, realising that the intruder had climbed out through the window in the rear store room. They went outside and spotted Ferrie curled up next to the plants, discovering him 30 minutes after they had received the initial call about the break-in.
Ferrie admitted a charge of burglary and was sentenced to four years. West Midlands Police publicised the case earlier this week, even though Ferrie actually learned his punishment on Thursday, May 28.
Det Sgt James Birtles of Force CID, said: “Although in this case nothing was taken, a home was broken into and we know how traumatic that can be for victims."
For the full story, click here
Jayon Foster
Vile criminal Jayon Foster spat at a police officer after he was seen brandishing a steak knife in Handsworth.
Police confronted the 37-year-old father and personal trainer on Church Hill Road on April 13. He had been drinking and claimed he had just left a barbecue when officers approached.
He was arrested and as he was being ushered in to a force car he spat in the face of one of the officers leaving them 'humiliated, degraded and concerned for his health', a court heard.
Passing sentence, Judge Mark Wall QC, said: "This was in the middle of the current Covid-19 crisis. The police officer, understandably in his victim statement, detailed how worried he was about what you did and the undesireability of germs being shared.
"There was a risk in the middle of this crisis that you were going to communicate a serious disease to someone else which you may have had without realising it as is the nature of the disease."
Foster, of Aldridge Road in Perry Barr, admitted possessing a bladed article, assaulting an emergency worker and criminal damage. He was jailed for one year.
For the full story, click here
Michael Hayer
Drug dealer Michael Hayer was caught after police intercepted nearly £20,000 worth of cannabis being delivered to his address.
The drugs, which were destined for the 30-year-old's home in Daimler Close, Stafford, were discovered by Border Force officers on March 18.
His home was then raided in April with police finding Class A and B substances in supermarket carrier bags, valued at more than £18,000 - potentially more if divided into street deals. Drug bags and mobile phones with evidence of illegal transactions were also seized.
Hayer was found guilty of possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis at Stafford Crown Court. This week Staffordshire Police revealed he had been jailed for four years, after receiving his sentence on Friday, May 29.
For the full story, click here
Simon Burrin
(Image: WMP)
Convicted sex offender Simon Burrin allowed a schoolboy to stay at his flat after meeting him on gay dating app Grindr.
The victim, aged 14, admitted to police he initially told Burrin that he was a 19-year-old student working at a KFC restaurant. He went to his flat in Erdington on October 24.
Burrin tried to touch him, which he took as an attempt at sexual contact, but he refused. The victim stayed there for three nights. When police quizzed Burrin about it he denied he knew the boy.
The 40-year-old of Court Lane admitted charges of child abduction and failing to comply with the requirements of a sexual harm prevention order. Burrin was jailed for two years and four months.
In 2018 he had been imprisoned for 10 months after admitting to meet a child under 16 following sexual grooming and causing a child to watch a sexual act.
For the full story, click here


birminghammail--2020-06-08--Our man reacts to Pep news and says what type of boss Blues want

So Pep Clotet is on his way out and Birmingham City are looking for their latest new manager .
It was n't the news any Bluenose would have expected this morning , but that 's what Blues are having to contend with after Clotet 's surprise announcement that he will leave at the end of the season .
Clotet 's looming departure means the Spaniard will have been Blues boss for just one season after taking over from Garry Monk last summer .
To get updates on the Pep Clotet news direct to your email inbox , sign up for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the top of this piece This is our Blues writer Brian Dick 's initial reaction to the bombshell news , along with a hint about the type of manager the St Andrew 's powerbrokers are looking to replace Clotet with .
`` So the one constant at Birmingham City is the change and that change has rolled around at St Andrew 's again with the surprise news that PC will be leaving the club at the end of the season .
`` He 's had the 2019-20 campaign in charge at Blues .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stepped last summer with Garry Monk , Che Adams and MM all leaving , you have to say to keep Blues clear of danger and try to make some progress towards integrating the young players has been a jkob pretty well done .
`` The recruitment process has begin .
I understand Blues have n't had a huge amount of notice ob this so its not very far down the line .
`` But that recruitment has begun and seems to be focused on an experienced replacement who knows the Championshiop and potentally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Among the early bookies favourites to replace Clotet are Chris Hughton , Slasiva Jokanovic .
Mark Robins , Lee Bowyer and Craig Gardner .
You can follow all the latest news and developments about Blues ' new manager search here .

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So Pep Clotet is on his way out and Birmingham City are looking for their latest new manager.
It wasn't the news any Bluenose would have expected this morning, but that's what Blues are having to contend with after Clotet's surprise announcement that he will leave at the end of the season.
Clotet's looming departure means the Spaniard will have been Blues boss for just one season after taking over from Garry Monk last summer.
To get updates on the Pep Clotet news direct to your email inbox, sign up for our Blues newsletter in the box at the top of this piece
This is our Blues writer Brian Dick's initial reaction to the bombshell news, along with a hint about the type of manager the St Andrew's powerbrokers are looking to replace Clotet with.
"So the one constant at Birmingham City is the change and that change has rolled around at St Andrew's again with the surprise news that PC will be leaving the club at the end of the season.
"He's had the 2019-20 campaign in charge at Blues.
"Given the uncertainty to which he stepped last summer with Garry Monk, Che Adams and MM all leaving, you have to say to keep Blues clear of danger and try to make some progress towards integrating the young players has been a jkob pretty well done.
"The recruitment process has begin. I understand Blues haven't had a huge amount of notice ob this so its not very far down the line.
"But that recruitment has begun and seems to be focused on an experienced replacement who knows the Championshiop and potentally even with a record of promotions."
Among the early bookies favourites to replace Clotet are Chris Hughton, Slasiva Jokanovic. Mark Robins, Lee Bowyer and Craig Gardner.
You can follow all the latest news and developments about Blues' new manager search here.


birminghammail--2020-06-08--Gardner, Warnock and Jokanovic in the running to become Blues boss

Craig Gardner is currently the favourite to succeed Pep Clotet as Birmingham City head coach .
It was announced today that Clotet , 43 , will step down from his role at the end of the season to pursue opportunities elsewhere .
Clotet has been in charge at St Andrew 's for just one season after succeeding Garry Monk and boasts a record of 15 wins from 42 matches .
Gardner , who recently announced his retirement from playing to focus on coaching duties at Wast Hills , is the early favourite with bookmakers at 5/2 .
There 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of all the Birmingham City news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Blues news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Former Blues boss Chris Hughton is second favourite at 5/1 and remains out of work after leaving Brighton & Hove Albion last year .
Hughton 's only season at St Andrew 's saw the club reach the Championship play-offs alongside a good Europa League campaign .
Another contender is Slavisa Jokanovic .
Blues appointed one of his former coaches in Alberto Escobar at Christmas and he remains with the club .
Jokanovic is the current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the betting are Coventry City boss Mark Robins , who stands to win promotion to the Championship , ex-Albion managers Tony Pulis and Alan Pardew , as well as Blues hero Lee Bowyer .

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Robbie Fowler is the new favourite to become Birmingham City's next manager after he left Australian side Brisbane Roar.
The search for a successor to Pep Clotet has entered its third week with a number of names having been linked.
Clotet announced on June 8 that he will leave his role as head coach once the current season has come to an end.
Charlton Athletic manager and Carling Cup winner Lee Bowyer and former Blues boss Chris Hughton are among the options said to be under consideration, while Coventry City boss Mark Robins was linked over the weekend.
Hughton would be a popular choice but BirminghamLive understands he does not want to return at this stage.
Slavisa Jokanovic remains in the picture too and an approach for Rangers manager Steven Gerrard was reportedly turned down.
Fowler cut ties with A-League side Brisbane on Monday and the former Liverpool striker has shot to the top of the betting to take over at Blues.
“Robbie has not only provided stability but a refreshing injection of knowledge and insight into the Roar,” Brisbane’s deputy chairman Chris Fong said.
“We are disappointed that the global pandemic has impacted our plans together but completely understand that family comes first during these difficult times.”
Fowler, 45, took charge at Brisbane last April - his second managerial role following a stint as player-manager with Muangthong United in Thailand nine years ago.
After a slow start he had guided them to fourth in the league, winning ten of his 22 matches, before the pandemic shutdown.
Blues next manager odds (courtesy of SkyBet)
Robbie Fowler 5/2
Lee Carsley 3/1
Nigel Clough 4/1
Chris Hughton 9/2
Lee Bowyer 13/2
Steven Gerrard 7/1
Danny Buijs 8/1
Mark Robins 12/1
Slavisa Jokanovic 14/1
Gareth Ainsworth 16/1


birminghammail--2020-06-08--More than 400 jobs being axed at JLR supplier, says Unite union

More than 400 jobs are going at a major Midland engineering firm supplying parts for a string of carmakers , according to a union .
Unite said Sertec was axing 428 roles , most likely at factories in Aston , Witton , Tyseley , Coleshill , Hams Hall and Redditch .
The union said it was a `` fresh blow '' to the region ’ s automotive sector and a `` premature decision '' .
Unite said most of the 1,300 workers at the firm , which makes parts for JLR , Nissan and Toyota , had been furloughed under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Unite regional officer Jason Richards said : “ This is another bitter blow to the automotive industry in the West Midlands .
“ Unite is seeking urgent meetings with Sertec to persuade them to reverse this decision or delay it so that a more accurate assessment of the automotive sector can be made .
`` This is a premature decision as most of the workforce is currently furloughed .
The government ’ s job retention scheme was not designed as a vehicle to make workers redundant .
“ By undertaking a redundancy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is denying Unite its legal right to meaningfully consult with union members and allow the union access to the entire bargaining group .
This is impossible when the workforce is furloughed under a scheme that specifically precludes employees from working . ''
“ If the redundancy programme does proceed then Unite will be seeking to mitigate job losses and ensure that compulsory redundancies are kept to an absolute minimum .
“ Unite will ensure that all affected workers are treated fairly and receive everything that they are legally entitled to.
” The revelation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under threat at Jaguar Land Rover supplier Arlington Automotive Group which specialises in products such as bespoke thermostats for vehicles and the manufacture and assembly of engineered vehicle systems .

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More than 400 jobs are going at a major Midland engineering firm supplying parts for a string of carmakers, according to a union.
Unite said Sertec was axing 428 roles, most likely at factories in Aston, Witton, Tyseley, Coleshill, Hams Hall and Redditch.
The union said it was a "fresh blow" to the region’s automotive sector and a "premature decision".
Unite said most of the 1,300 workers at the firm, which makes parts for JLR, Nissan and Toyota, had been furloughed under the government’s job retention scheme.
Unite regional officer Jason Richards said: “This is another bitter blow to the automotive industry in the West Midlands.
“Unite is seeking urgent meetings with Sertec to persuade them to reverse this decision or delay it so that a more accurate assessment of the automotive sector can be made.
"This is a premature decision as most of the workforce is currently furloughed. The government’s job retention scheme was not designed as a vehicle to make workers redundant.
“By undertaking a redundancy programme while workers are furloughed, Sertec is denying Unite its legal right to meaningfully consult with union members and allow the union access to the entire bargaining group. This is impossible when the workforce is furloughed under a scheme that specifically precludes employees from working."
“If the redundancy programme does proceed then Unite will be seeking to mitigate job losses and ensure that compulsory redundancies are kept to an absolute minimum.
“Unite will ensure that all affected workers are treated fairly and receive everything that they are legally entitled to.”
The revelation followed news that around 600 jobs were under threat at Jaguar Land Rover supplier Arlington Automotive Group which specialises in products such as bespoke thermostats for vehicles and the manufacture and assembly of engineered vehicle systems.
BirminghamLive has approached Sertec for a comment.


birminghammail--2020-06-08--The West Brom & Leeds United games on TV as Championship title battle commences

Sky Sports has unveiled the first batch of live fixtures that will be shown during the Championship 's restart , including a three-match offering on the first weekend back .
Promotion hopefuls Brentford and Fulham will face off in a west London derby at 12.30pm on Saturday , June 20 , with title contenders West Bromwich Albion taking on Birmingham in the second televised game of the day at 3pm .
Championship leaders Leeds will then return to action the following day in south Wales at midday and the following Sunday , Bristol City will face Sheffield Wednesday at midday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against Huddersfield at 2.15pm .
Leeds and Slaven Bilic 's side , separated by only a point , hold a seven and six-point advantage over Fulham in third place respectively as they look to seal promotion .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the West Bromwich Albion news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Albion news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store An intriguing battle for the second tier crown awaits with the pair sparring all season .
The 78 Championship matches not broadcast live by Sky Sports will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their websites to their own season ticket holders or at the cost of £10 per non-ticketed fan .
There will be a maximum of six games per club that can be selected to be shown live by Sky Sports , while all 15 play-off matches from across the EFL will be shown exclusively live on Sky Sports in the UK .
Full TV matches can be found below ...

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Josh Challies, Richard Cusack)

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Sky Sports has unveiled the first batch of live fixtures that will be shown during the Championship's restart, including a three-match offering on the first weekend back.
Promotion hopefuls Brentford and Fulham will face off in a west London derby at 12.30pm on Saturday, June 20, with title contenders West Bromwich Albion taking on Birmingham in the second televised game of the day at 3pm.
Championship leaders Leeds will then return to action the following day in south Wales at midday and the following Sunday, Bristol City will face Sheffield Wednesday at midday before Nottingham Forest’s home game against Huddersfield at 2.15pm.
Leeds and Slaven Bilic 's side, separated by only a point, hold a seven and six-point advantage over Fulham in third place respectively as they look to seal promotion.
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 .
An intriguing battle for the second tier crown awaits with the pair sparring all season.
The 78 Championship matches not broadcast live by Sky Sports will be available for clubs to stream on their websites to their own season ticket holders or at the cost of £10 per non-ticketed fan.
There will be a maximum of six games per club that can be selected to be shown live by Sky Sports, while all 15 play-off matches from across the EFL will be shown exclusively live on Sky Sports in the UK.
Full TV matches can be found below...
Saturday June 20
Fulham vs Brentford (12:30)
West Brom vs Birmingham City (15:00)
Sunday June 21
Cardiff City vs Leeds United (12:00)
Friday June 26
Brentford vs West Brom (19:45)
Saturday June 27
Preston vs Cardiff City (12:30)
Leeds United vs Fulham (15:00)
Sunday June 28
Bristol City vs Sheffield Wednesday (12:00)
Nottingham Forest vs Huddersfield Town (14:15)
Tuesday June 30
Millwall vs Swansea City (17:00)
Wednesday July 1
Preston vs Derby County (17:00)
Thursday July 2
Hull City vs Middlesbrough (17:00)


birminghammail--2020-06-08--Boss claims his boozy staff are abusing furlough in This Morning rant

This Morning viewers have been left divided after a business owner claimed staff are 'abusing ' the furlough system .
Charlie Mullins - the owner of Pimlico Plumbers - appeared from his home in South London via video link .
He was interviewed by ITV1 This Morning 's presenting duo of Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield .
He told the pair that he plans to let go of some of his employees who are asking not to return to work , saying : `` Within five minutes of us explaining to them that the government is now paying 80 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the door within five minutes . ''
He added : `` There was no reason to go , they didn ’ t have the health issues , they didn ’ t have vulnerable people at home .
All they were interested was getting money for nothing .
`` They ’ re the same people that have been back on to some of their line managers and said we don ’ t want to come back , we want to stay on the furlough , and I think it ’ s totally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s the rules , but we are classed as essential workers .
The business carried on doing emergency work , we ’ ve done a lot of work for the NHS that we didn ’ t charge for .
`` We could have done with more people in the business that were safe to come in .
I ’ m just saying the people that have to be on it , of course they have to be on it .
`` But we ’ ve had a lot of people who ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of companies come onto me at the weekend saying they totally agree . ''
He ploughed on : `` You say I ’ m going to sack them - they don ’ t want to come back , and we don ’ t want them back .
We ’ ve put in all the measures that we need to - hygienic things we have to do , social distancing , we laid on food for them , parking for them , gave them a bonus . ''
`` We don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the system , '' he continued .
`` We ’ ve had people ring their line managers asking to stay on it , that ’ s not how it should be . ''
`` So what you ’ re saying then is that if anyone is watching this and you ’ re on furlough and you ’ re lazy then don ’ t expect to have a job to go back to ? ''
Phil then asked .
“ The same people that run out of the office within five minutes are the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at weekends and sit out in beer gardens.
” Charlie hit back : `` I ’ ll agree with you on that .
The people that have to be on it have to be on it , the people who are taking the Mickey out of it should not be on it . ''

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This Morning viewers have been left divided after a business owner claimed staff are 'abusing' the furlough system.
Charlie Mullins - the owner of Pimlico Plumbers - appeared from his home in South London via video link.
He was interviewed by ITV1 This Morning's presenting duo of Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield.
He told the pair that he plans to let go of some of his employees who are asking not to return to work, saying: "Within five minutes of us explaining to them that the government is now paying 80 per cent of their wages, they were out of the door within five minutes."
He added: "There was no reason to go, they didn’t have the health issues, they didn’t have vulnerable people at home. All they were interested was getting money for nothing.
"They’re the same people that have been back on to some of their line managers and said we don’t want to come back, we want to stay on the furlough, and I think it’s totally incorrect.
"You say it’s the rules, but we are classed as essential workers. The business carried on doing emergency work, we’ve done a lot of work for the NHS that we didn’t charge for.
"We could have done with more people in the business that were safe to come in. I’m just saying the people that have to be on it, of course they have to be on it.
"But we’ve had a lot of people who’ve abused it. I’ve had a lot of companies come onto me at the weekend saying they totally agree."
He ploughed on: "You say I’m going to sack them - they don’t want to come back, and we don’t want them back. We’ve put in all the measures that we need to - hygienic things we have to do, social distancing, we laid on food for them, parking for them, gave them a bonus."
"We don’t want people back who have abused the system," he continued.
"We’ve had people ring their line managers asking to stay on it, that’s not how it should be."
"So what you’re saying then is that if anyone is watching this and you’re on furlough and you’re lazy then don’t expect to have a job to go back to?" Phil then asked.
“The same people that run out of the office within five minutes are the same people who went to the beach at weekends and sit out in beer gardens.”
Charlie hit back: "I’ll agree with you on that. The people that have to be on it have to be on it, the people who are taking the Mickey out of it should not be on it."


birminghammail--2020-06-08--Dudley Zoo loses £100k per week during Covid-19 closure

Dudley Zoo is losing around £100,000 per week since the coronavirus crisis forced it to close .
The 40-acre site shut its gates on March 23 - and there is currently no reopening date in sight .
With no income from paying visitors , the Castle Hill attraction said it was at crisis point due to the continued cost of animal care .
Zoo director , Derek Grove , said : “ It ’ s an incredibly frustrating situation for the entire zoological industry .
“ Here at Dudley Zoo and Castle we ’ re losing around £100,000 a week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our redevelopment reserves .
“ We ’ ve got all the correct social distancing procedures in place so we ’ re ready to reopen once we get the green light.
” The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums has secured a UK parliamentary debate on Thursday , June 11 , in a bid to secure Government support for zoos to reopen .
Dudley Zoo has issued a rally call , urging supporters to contact their local MP , asking them to attend .
Since the call for action over the weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ messages of support .
Mr Grove said : “ Dudley Zoo and Castle is dedicated to protecting the future of wildlife for generations to come and we ’ re humbled by the support in protecting ours .
“ We ’ ve had messages from as far away as Australia , with people telling us they have written to MPs , signed petitions , submitted questions to the daily briefings or donated to our online fundraising page , for which we ’ re very grateful.
” People can also help to secure the zoo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page .
So far , animal lovers have helped to raise more than £18,500 .

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Dudley Zoo is losing around £100,000 per week since the coronavirus crisis forced it to close.
The 40-acre site shut its gates on March 23 - and there is currently no reopening date in sight.
With no income from paying visitors, the Castle Hill attraction said it was at crisis point due to the continued cost of animal care.
Zoo director, Derek Grove, said: “It’s an incredibly frustrating situation for the entire zoological industry.
“Here at Dudley Zoo and Castle we’re losing around £100,000 a week and are now having to dip into our redevelopment reserves.
“We’ve got all the correct social distancing procedures in place so we’re ready to reopen once we get the green light.”
The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums has secured a UK parliamentary debate on Thursday, June 11, in a bid to secure Government support for zoos to reopen.
Dudley Zoo has issued a rally call, urging supporters to contact their local MP, asking them to attend.
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Since the call for action over the weekend, the zoo has been overwhelmed with messages of support.
Mr Grove said: “Dudley Zoo and Castle is dedicated to protecting the future of wildlife for generations to come and we’re humbled by the support in protecting ours.
“We’ve had messages from as far away as Australia, with people telling us they have written to MPs, signed petitions, submitted questions to the daily briefings or donated to our online fundraising page, for which we’re very grateful.”
People can also help to secure the zoo's future by donating to a JustGiving page.
So far, animal lovers have helped to raise more than £18,500.