birminghammail--2020-05-23--Chairman reveals plans to derail Albion & Leeds' promotion charge

Hull City have submitted a second letter to the EFL in order to get the Championship season curtailed .
Championship clubs plan to restart training on Monday ahead of the season being resumed next month , providing there is n't a second spike in coronavirus cases across the country .
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 .
Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion , the Championship 's top two , are the keenest clubs to finish the campaign in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League .
Hull , meanwhile , are in danger of being relegated to League One , hence why Allam has been so heavily criticised for his club 's stance .
But Allam is sticking to his guns and has reaffirmed his position in a second damning condemnation of the EFL 's bid to resume the Championship season .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a result of the inappropriate haste with which clubs are being encouraged to return to training by the EFL .
`` I also retain serious concerns about the integrity of the competition ( which in my opinion is more than simply upholding promotion and relegation at all costs ) should some , but not all , of the remaining games of the 2019/20 season be played .
`` I am extremely concerned that one of the testing options available is for individual players to administer the tests themselves before then providing it to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential to fundamentally undermine a testing regime which you have stated is needed to underpin a safe return and , in the event that matches are ever played , expose the players and staff of other Championship clubs ( who have adopted a more rigorous approach to testing via club medical personnel or third party agencies ) to unnecessary and inappropriate risks .
`` It would clearly be inappropriate for players to carry out their own doping-control tests and yet the EFL has approved a process which allows players to test themselves for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

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Hull City have submitted a second letter to the EFL in order to get the Championship season curtailed.
Championship clubs plan to restart training on Monday ahead of the season being resumed next month, providing there isn't a second spike in coronavirus cases across the country.
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.
Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion, the Championship's top two, are the keenest clubs to finish the campaign in order to win promotion to the Premier League.
Hull, meanwhile, are in danger of being relegated to League One, hence why Allam has been so heavily criticised for his club's stance.
But Allam is sticking to his guns and has reaffirmed his position in a second damning condemnation of the EFL's bid to resume the Championship season.
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.
"I also retain serious concerns about the integrity of the competition (which in my opinion is more than simply upholding promotion and relegation at all costs) should some, but not all, of the remaining games of the 2019/20 season be played.
"I am extremely concerned that one of the testing options available is for individual players to administer the tests themselves before then providing it to their club.
"This has the potential to fundamentally undermine a testing regime which you have stated is needed to underpin a safe return and, in the event that matches are ever played, expose the players and staff of other Championship clubs (who have adopted a more rigorous approach to testing via club medical personnel or third party agencies) to unnecessary and inappropriate risks.
"It would clearly be inappropriate for players to carry out their own doping-control tests and yet the EFL has approved a process which allows players to test themselves for a virus that has serious/life-threatening consequences."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Disorder in Erdington as gang wield bats and storm cannabis factory

Police swooped on a cannabis factory housing 150 plants after a masked gang had earlier stormed the property - but not before smashing a car window with bats leaving one man slightly injured .
The drama , which a local resident said was like the video game 'Grand Theft Auto , ' unfolded around 1130pm last night ( May 22 ) in Hillaries Road , Erdington .
Police said the gang had minutes earlier forced their way into another house in the same road but it 's believed that property had been mistakenly targeted .
They fled empty-handed after they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unsure at this stage if the brazen gang swiped any of the plants from the cannabis factory .
A local resident told BirminghamLive : `` Honestly it was like something out of Grand Theft Auto .
`` I live on Kingsbury Road and people could hear stuff going on around most of Erdington . ''
The local woman said she and others had heard a police helicopter followed by an announcement from a loudspeaker in the direction of the Mercedes car dealership on Tyburn Road .
`` It was something like 'leave this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than one helicopter and whatever went on it was for a good few hours .
Still not sure what exactly happened . ''
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` We 're investigating following disorder in Hillaries Road , Erdington , around 11.30pm yesterday ( 22 May ) .
`` A group of masked men smashed the window of a car with bats , and hit the driver as he tried to escape .
He suffered superficial injuries to his head .
`` They then stormed into a house which we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with around 150 plants .
It is unknown at this stage whether they fled with any plants .
`` It 's believed the same men had forced their way into another address in Hillaries Road just minutes earlier but left empty-handed after being disturbed .
We currently believe this property had been mistakenly targeted .
Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact police via Live Chat or by calling 101 .
Quote 20BE/118315K/20 .
Many concerned locals took to social media .
One posted : `` Mercedes Garage just put a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CCTV please leave the site - then shortly after the helicopter came . ''
Another said : `` Bit of a brawl near slade road cannabis grow uncovered . ''
A third wrote : `` I 'm just off Tyburn been going for over an hour now ... .
Scared my poor dog . ''
And a fourth simply said : `` Nightmare in erdington now . ''

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Police swooped on a cannabis factory housing 150 plants after a masked gang had earlier stormed the property - but not before smashing a car window with bats leaving one man slightly injured.
The drama, which a local resident said was like the video game 'Grand Theft Auto,' unfolded around 1130pm last night (May 22) in Hillaries Road, Erdington.
Police said the gang had minutes earlier forced their way into another house in the same road but it's believed that property had been mistakenly targeted.
They fled empty-handed after they were disturbed.
Police say they are unsure at this stage if the brazen gang swiped any of the plants from the cannabis factory.
A local resident told BirminghamLive: "Honestly it was like something out of Grand Theft Auto.
"I live on Kingsbury Road and people could hear stuff going on around most of Erdington."
The local woman said she and others had heard a police helicopter followed by an announcement from a loudspeaker in the direction of the Mercedes car dealership on Tyburn Road.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"It was something like 'leave this property.'
"There was more than one helicopter and whatever went on it was for a good few hours. Still not sure what exactly happened."
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We're investigating following disorder in Hillaries Road, Erdington, around 11.30pm yesterday (22 May).
"A group of masked men smashed the window of a car with bats, and hit the driver as he tried to escape. He suffered superficial injuries to his head.
"They then stormed into a house which we later discovered to be a cannabis factory with around 150 plants. It is unknown at this stage whether they fled with any plants.
"It's believed the same men had forced their way into another address in Hillaries Road just minutes earlier but left empty-handed after being disturbed. We currently believe this property had been mistakenly targeted.
Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact police via Live Chat or by calling 101. Quote 20BE/118315K/20.
Many concerned locals took to social media.
Follow Cathrina Hulse on social media Cathrina Hulse is a multi-media journalist for Birmingham Live and Birmingham Mail. Follow Cathrina here Follow Cathrina on Facebook here Read more of Cathrina's stories here Have you got a story? Email cathrina.hulse@reachplc.com or call 0121 234 5552
One posted: "Mercedes Garage just put a loud speaker saying this property has live CCTV please leave the site - then shortly after the helicopter came."
Another said: "Bit of a brawl near slade road cannabis grow uncovered."
A third wrote: "I'm just off Tyburn been going for over an hour now.... Scared my poor dog."
And a fourth simply said: "Nightmare in erdington now."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Lampard reveals outcome of meeting involving Villa boss Smith

Frank Lampard insists all Premier League managers are happy to finish the season - even those in danger of being relegated .
Several teams in the Premier League , including Aston Villa , have been demonised by their rivals for speaking out against some of the proposals put forward by Project Restart .
Villa CEO Christian Purslow is against the idea of playing the remaining fixtures at neutral venues - a statement which was heavily criticised by supporters of other clubs .
Dean Smith has welcomed his players back to Bodymoor Heath this week after a vote was passed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to adhere to social distancing guidelines .
That is set to be progressed in the coming days and weeks as the Premier League attempts to restart next month .
And Lampard , whose Chelsea side are chasing a top-four finish , insists that all managers expressed a desire to complete the campaign during a recent meeting .
Speaking to the BBC , he said : `` That was really clear from the managers meeting we had last week .
We 've got players who want to play football .
`` All of us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're very fortunate to have this job and we want to finish it .
I think the feeling of , it might be whether you 're involved in a relegation battle or towards the top of the league , we all felt that when we 'd finished we were so into it .
`` When we 've seen so many things around the country and around the world , much more important things happening than football , I think that 's been a bit of a reset for all of us .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finish this season .
The most important thing is when it 's safe and healthy for players , for staff .
`` The fans wo n't be coming but will it change things in society ?
The police , the NHS .
All these things need to come together and hopefully we can get our game back . ''

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Frank Lampard insists all Premier League managers are happy to finish the season - even those in danger of being relegated.
Several teams in the Premier League, including Aston Villa, have been demonised by their rivals for speaking out against some of the proposals put forward by Project Restart.
Villa CEO Christian Purslow is against the idea of playing the remaining fixtures at neutral venues - a statement which was heavily criticised by supporters of other clubs.
Dean Smith has welcomed his players back to Bodymoor Heath this week after a vote was passed to allow training in small groups in order to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
That is set to be progressed in the coming days and weeks as the Premier League attempts to restart next month.
And Lampard, whose Chelsea side are chasing a top-four finish, insists that all managers expressed a desire to complete the campaign during a recent meeting.
Speaking to the BBC, he said: "That was really clear from the managers meeting we had last week. We've got players who want to play football.
"All of us, it's our job. We're very fortunate to have this job and we want to finish it. I think the feeling of, it might be whether you're involved in a relegation battle or towards the top of the league, we all felt that when we'd finished we were so into it.
"When we've seen so many things around the country and around the world, much more important things happening than football, I think that's been a bit of a reset for all of us.
"But what remains is we want to finish this season. The most important thing is when it's safe and healthy for players, for staff.
"The fans won't be coming but will it change things in society? The police, the NHS. All these things need to come together and hopefully we can get our game back."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Furloughed West Brom coach details major Championship concerns

Ex- West Bromwich Albion stopper Boaz Myhill believes a mid-June return date is `` not safe simply from a fitness point of view '' .
The 37-year-old is currently on furlough taking time off from his usual role as Albion 's under-23s development coach .
Myhill , who officially retired last year , told the Tigers Tigers ... Blah Blah Blah podcast : `` I ’ ve got to be honest , I ’ m glad I ’ m not a player now .
`` The original plan was to start back in the middle of June and , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 weeks from game to game .
`` They were planning on having a two-week pre-season which , how you ’ re supposed to play at a good level after that , I don ’ t know .
It ’ s not safe simply from a fitness point of view .
The quality of football would be nowhere near the level that people want to see . ''
Albion have been back training since last Monday but remain in the dark about the conclusion of the Championship season with nine games still left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I do worry .
I worry a lot for the other teams lower down .
I keep hearing Gary Neville say that the Premier League is going to have to do something , and I do think that will have to happen .
I worry about a lot of the out of contract players this season .
I think the clubs are going to be a lot more powerful now and I think the player power side of things will die down massively .
`` I don ’ t know how the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make money because , as I understand , minimum it ’ ll be Christmas time before we see supporters in the stands again .
`` I just don ’ t know how they can do it fairly .
I don ’ t understand – and I ’ ve said this a lot – why there ’ s a desperation to cancel this season , to start a season that hasn ’ t started yet .
`` I don ’ t understand why they don ’ t take as long as it takes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will have something to do with money , I just don ’ t really know what it is .
`` Again , you ’ re talking about clubs doing the right thing but , at some stage as well , the players have to as well .
It 's got to be ethical rather than a selfish professional decision . ''
On what his role entailed prior to lockdown , Myhill explained : `` I ’ m actually on furlough at the minute , I ’ m not allowed to work .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ training ground .
What I was doing – up until being put on furlough – was taking the goalkeepers ’ training .
`` Basically , I was going to the training ground and recording myself doing exercises – on my own to start off with – and then with somebody who could kick balls at me so that , in a six-yard , box-sized space , everyone could do that in a back garden or in a park .
`` We basically did that for six weeks and then it got to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) league .
We worked for another week , in a similar way , and then we moved to this furlough situation . ''

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Ex- West Bromwich Albion stopper Boaz Myhill believes a mid-June return date is "not safe simply from a fitness point of view".
The 37-year-old is currently on furlough taking time off from his usual role as Albion's under-23s development coach.
Myhill, who officially retired last year, told the Tigers Tigers... Blah Blah Blah podcast : "I’ve got to be honest, I’m glad I’m not a player now.
"The original plan was to start back in the middle of June and, to sum up, they will have had 13 weeks from game to game.
"They were planning on having a two-week pre-season which, how you’re supposed to play at a good level after that, I don’t know. It’s not safe simply from a fitness point of view. The quality of football would be nowhere near the level that people want to see."
Albion have been back training since last Monday but remain in the dark about the conclusion of the Championship season with nine games still left to play.
And Myhill added: "I do worry. I worry a lot for the other teams lower down. I keep hearing Gary Neville say that the Premier League is going to have to do something, and I do think that will have to happen. I worry about a lot of the out of contract players this season. I think the clubs are going to be a lot more powerful now and I think the player power side of things will die down massively.
"I don’t know how the teams outside the Premier League are going to make money because, as I understand, minimum it’ll be Christmas time before we see supporters in the stands again.
"I just don’t know how they can do it fairly. I don’t understand – and I’ve said this a lot – why there’s a desperation to cancel this season, to start a season that hasn’t started yet.
"I don’t understand why they don’t take as long as it takes to finish this season safely. It will have something to do with money, I just don’t really know what it is.
"Again, you’re talking about clubs doing the right thing but, at some stage as well, the players have to as well. It's got to be ethical rather than a selfish professional decision."
On what his role entailed prior to lockdown, Myhill explained: "I’m actually on furlough at the minute, I’m not allowed to work. I’m not allowed anywhere near the training ground. What I was doing – up until being put on furlough – was taking the goalkeepers’ training.
"Basically, I was going to the training ground and recording myself doing exercises – on my own to start off with – and then with somebody who could kick balls at me so that, in a six-yard, box-sized space, everyone could do that in a back garden or in a park.
"We basically did that for six weeks and then it got to the stage where they cancelled our (U23) league. We worked for another week, in a similar way, and then we moved to this furlough situation."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Viewers stunned after Gogglebox stars shock revelation over caravan

Gogglebox has now finished its current series and wo n't be back until September - meaning Jenny and Lee can end their caravan lockdown at last .
The pair revealed on Friday night they are parting ways after sharing the caravan for the past nine weeks .
Best mates Lee Riley , 51 , and Jenny Newby , 64 , have been isolating in the caravan to film the Channel 4 series , which features an array of armchair critics giving their hilarious views on the nation 's TV .
Lee said : `` Isolation week nine and sadly it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 .
`` We hope you enjoy the show this evening , it ’ s been a fab time and probably we will see you all in September .
`` Have a great summer , keep well , and keep safe . ''
On this final episode of the series , Jenny said : `` Just think Lee , what are you going to do when I go home ? ''
`` I 'll miss you when I go home .
Have you bought me a leaving present ? ''
Jenny replied : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but you just don ’ t like admitting it . ''
`` I f***** won ’ t , '' said Lee , before laughing that he `` could n't wait '' to get rid of her out of the caravan .
And viewers were left stunned as the conversation revealed who owns the famous caravan at Sand le Mere , on the east coast , where Jenny and Lee team up for the show .
One person tweeted : `` I always thought it was Jenny 's caravan # Gogglebox . ''
Another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that was Jenny ’ s caravan after about 20 series of watching .
Madness # Gogglebox . ''
Among other moments in the final episode that got fans talking was Lee 's habit of dunking his toast in his tea .
At one point during the show , during a segment where the duo were watching Andrew Marr interview Michael Gove , Lee could be seen dipping the buttered toast into his cuppa .
`` Do you have to do that ?
You 're disgusting , you , '' said Jenny .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What ? ''
`` Dipping that in the cup , '' she said .
To which Lee replied he `` likes it '' , as he gave it another dunk .
Fans dubbed it a 'crime against toast ' as they commented on Twitter .

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Gogglebox has now finished its current series and won't be back until September - meaning Jenny and Lee can end their caravan lockdown at last.
The pair revealed on Friday night they are parting ways after sharing the caravan for the past nine weeks.
Best mates Lee Riley, 51, and Jenny Newby, 64, have been isolating in the caravan to film the Channel 4 series, which features an array of armchair critics giving their hilarious views on the nation's TV.
(Image: Channel 4)
Lee said: "Isolation week nine and sadly it’s the last episode of series 15.
"We hope you enjoy the show this evening, it’s been a fab time and probably we will see you all in September.
"Have a great summer, keep well, and keep safe."
On this final episode of the series, Jenny said: "Just think Lee, what are you going to do when I go home?"
"I'll miss you when I go home. Have you bought me a leaving present?"
He replied: "Yeah. A f****** suitcase."
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Jenny replied: "Well I’ll miss you but you just don’t like admitting it."
"I f***** won’t," said Lee, before laughing that he "couldn't wait" to get rid of her out of the caravan.
(Image: Channel 4)
And viewers were left stunned as the conversation revealed who owns the famous caravan at Sand le Mere, on the east coast, where Jenny and Lee team up for the show.
One person tweeted: "I always thought it was Jenny's caravan #Gogglebox."
Another commented: "Madness. I thought that was Jenny’s caravan after about 20 series of watching. Madness #Gogglebox."
Among other moments in the final episode that got fans talking was Lee's habit of dunking his toast in his tea.
(Image: Channel 4)
At one point during the show, during a segment where the duo were watching Andrew Marr interview Michael Gove, Lee could be seen dipping the buttered toast into his cuppa.
"Do you have to do that? You're disgusting, you," said Jenny.
He turned to her, asking: "What?"
"Dipping that in the cup," she said.
To which Lee replied he "likes it", as he gave it another dunk.
Fans dubbed it a 'crime against toast' as they commented on Twitter.


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Scientists predict date coronavirus deaths will stop - with a warning

Scientists have predicted the date the UK could be free of coronavirus .
According to the Daily Star , scientists at The Singapore University of Technology used complex modelling to determine when the pandemic could be over globally .
It is believed by September 30 , Covid-19 could be eliminated from Britain - but a spokesperson for the university warned that 'readers must take any predictions with caution ' .
They also warned that 'over-optimism based on some predicted end dates is dangerous because it may loosen our disciplines and controls and cause the turnaround of the virus and infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The data shows that the US might be free of the deadly bug by November 11 .
Singapore has been highlighted in the prediction as the first nation to be rid of the coronavirus , as July 19 is believed to be the date researcher has released .
Next is Italy , where the crisis is expected to recede by August 12 .
A leading professor at Oxford University has forecast that the UK 's declining death rates could reach the stage of no fatalities being recorded on some days by the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at stage four in the alert system , meaning there is high transmission of Covid-19 .
Researchers in Singapore have said the prediction is `` uncertain '' and could alter with time .
The date is also susceptible to new surges of infections caused by easing lockdown measures and people breaching the rules .
A spokesman for The Singapore University of Technology said : `` The model and data are inaccurate to the complex , evolving , and heterogeneous realities of different countries .
`` Predictions are uncertain by nature .
Readers must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Over-optimism based on some predicted end dates is dangerous because it may loosen our disciplines and controls and cause the turnaround of the virus and infection , and must be avoided . ''
Separate modelling carried out in Washington and in Oxford has predicted that the UK could first see a 24-hour period with zero deaths from coronavirus by June .
However , it is expected that there will be `` sporadic up and downs '' for several weeks afterwards .
Professor Carl Heneghan , of the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine at Oxford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think by the end of June we 'll be looking at the data and finding it difficult to find people with this illness , if the current trends continue in the deaths .
`` But we will continue to have these sporadic up and downs for about four to six weeks . ''
It comes after the number of Covid-19 patients to die in the UK rose today by 351 to 36,393 , although that rise is far lower than the daily death tolls of over 1,000 recorded in April .
Of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals in England , 24 in Scotland , seven in Wales and three in Northern Ireland .
The youngest victim in England was 41 , health bosses confirmed , while three of the 121 had no known underlying health condition .
A further 3,287 people were confirmed to have the virus , the Department of Health and Social Care said , bringing the total number of cases to 254,195 since the start of the pandemic .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Joshua Smith, Oprah Flash)

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Scientists have predicted the date the UK could be free of coronavirus.
According to the Daily Star, scientists at The Singapore University of Technology used complex modelling to determine when the pandemic could be over globally.
It is believed by September 30, Covid-19 could be eliminated from Britain - but a spokesperson for the university warned that 'readers must take any predictions with caution'.
They also warned that 'over-optimism based on some predicted end dates is dangerous because it may loosen our disciplines and controls and cause the turnaround of the virus and infection, and must be avoided.'
The data shows that the US might be free of the deadly bug by November 11.
Singapore has been highlighted in the prediction as the first nation to be rid of the coronavirus, as July 19 is believed to be the date researcher has released.
Next is Italy, where the crisis is expected to recede by August 12.
A leading professor at Oxford University has forecast that the UK's declining death rates could reach the stage of no fatalities being recorded on some days by the end of June.
The UK is currently at stage four in the alert system, meaning there is high transmission of Covid-19.
Researchers in Singapore have said the prediction is "uncertain" and could alter with time.
The date is also susceptible to new surges of infections caused by easing lockdown measures and people breaching the rules.
A spokesman for The Singapore University of Technology said: "The model and data are inaccurate to the complex, evolving, and heterogeneous realities of different countries.
"Predictions are uncertain by nature. Readers must take any predictions with caution.
"Over-optimism based on some predicted end dates is dangerous because it may loosen our disciplines and controls and cause the turnaround of the virus and infection, and must be avoided."
Separate modelling carried out in Washington and in Oxford has predicted that the UK could first see a 24-hour period with zero deaths from coronavirus by June.
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However, it is expected that there will be "sporadic up and downs" for several weeks afterwards.
Professor Carl Heneghan, of the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine at Oxford University told The Sun: "I think by the end of June we'll be looking at the data and finding it difficult to find people with this illness, if the current trends continue in the deaths.
"But we will continue to have these sporadic up and downs for about four to six weeks."
It comes after the number of Covid-19 patients to die in the UK rose today by 351 to 36,393, although that rise is far lower than the daily death tolls of over 1,000 recorded in April.
Of the latest confirmed fatalities, 121 occurred in hospitals in England, 24 in Scotland, seven in Wales and three in Northern Ireland.
The youngest victim in England was 41, health bosses confirmed, while three of the 121 had no known underlying health condition.
A further 3,287 people were confirmed to have the virus, the Department of Health and Social Care said, bringing the total number of cases to 254,195 since the start of the pandemic.


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Pundit tells Scott Hogan what to do as Birmingham City transfer looms

`` While things are hot , stay where you are , '' is the message fired at Birmingham City 's on-loan goal ace Scott Hogan .
Ex-Aston Villa forward-turned-pundit Darren Bent believes Hogan , 28 , should look to force through a permanent transfer at St Andrew 's .
Hogan , scorer of nine goals at Birmingham City , has recently spoke about transfer speculation with his Villa Park career all but at an end .
The former Brentford man still has another 12 months left on his Aston Villa contract after his £12million transfer back in January 2017. talkSPORT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ implored Hogan to stay at St Andrew 's instead of attempting to resurrect his Villa career .
`` I like Scott Hogan , '' Bent told Football Insider .
`` I ’ ve really liked him from when he was at Brentford – he ’ s a typical forward , gets into good positions , great movement and a very good finisher .
`` Obviously he ’ s had a couple of stints elsewhere where it hasn ’ t worked for him but I ’ m a firm believer that when you get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times I moved – but when you ’ re a striker and you ’ re scoring goals somewhere , stay there , just stay there .
`` While he ’ s at Birmingham right now , the fans love him – it ’ s like they ’ ve completely forgotten he ’ s from Villa .
`` He ’ s enjoying playing there , he ’ s scoring goals , he ’ s happy and in a good place – don ’ t jeopardise that to go somewhere else .
`` It could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re there , scoring goals and your confidence is really high , stay there , ride it out as long as you can .
`` Unless he gets a move to someone in the Premier League , an established Premier League side , then you ’ ve got to go because it ’ s the Premier League , but right now while things are hot , stay where you are.
” Speaking previously , Hogan said : `` I have made friends there , they have made me feel at home so I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it comes about .
At the moment it ’ s not in my hands .
I ’ ve still got another year left at Villa . ''

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"While things are hot, stay where you are," is the message fired at Birmingham City 's on-loan goal ace Scott Hogan.
Ex-Aston Villa forward-turned-pundit Darren Bent believes Hogan, 28, should look to force through a permanent transfer at St Andrew's.
Hogan, scorer of nine goals at Birmingham City, has recently spoke about transfer speculation with his Villa Park career all but at an end.
The former Brentford man still has another 12 months left on his Aston Villa contract after his £12million transfer back in January 2017.
talkSPORT co-host Bent, meanwhile, has now implored Hogan to stay at St Andrew's instead of attempting to resurrect his Villa career.
"I like Scott Hogan," Bent told Football Insider. "I’ve really liked him from when he was at Brentford – he’s a typical forward, gets into good positions, great movement and a very good finisher.
"Obviously he’s had a couple of stints elsewhere where it hasn’t worked for him but I’m a firm believer that when you get a scenario – obviously a couple of times I moved – but when you’re a striker and you’re scoring goals somewhere, stay there, just stay there.
"While he’s at Birmingham right now, the fans love him – it’s like they’ve completely forgotten he’s from Villa.
"He’s enjoying playing there, he’s scoring goals, he’s happy and in a good place – don’t jeopardise that to go somewhere else.
"It could all fall apart. While you’re there, scoring goals and your confidence is really high, stay there, ride it out as long as you can.
"Unless he gets a move to someone in the Premier League, an established Premier League side, then you’ve got to go because it’s the Premier League, but right now while things are hot, stay where you are.”
Speaking previously, Hogan said: "I have made friends there, they have made me feel at home so I will be happy to do it if it comes about. At the moment it’s not in my hands. I’ve still got another year left at Villa."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--All these lockdown restrictions could be lifted in just over a week

Lockdown became a little less strict when we entered Step 1 of the Government 's Covid-19 recovery strategy on May 13 .
Under those changes , those who ca n't work from home are allowed to return to their workplace if it 's open and people can exercise as many times a day as they like .
We are also allowed to drive to outdoor open spaces in England for exercise and fresh air , no more how far away they are .
It 's also permitted to meet one person from outside your household as long as social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see further relaxations and changes as we approach the proposed date for the next stage of the recovery plan .
When Boris Johnson announced the exit plan from lockdown , a Government document said Step 2 would be made `` no earlier than Monday , June 1 '' subject to up-to-date assessments of the risk posed by the virus .
So what exactly could be different from June 1 ?
The intention is for non-essential retail to reopen in phases from June 1 `` when and where it is safe to do so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to follow Covid-19 guidelines .
The Government says it will issue further guidance to explain how this gradual reopening will work , including which businesses will be covered in each phase and the timeframes involved .
All other sectors that are currently closed , including hospitality ( pubs , cafes , restaurants ) and personal care ( hairdressers , barbers and beauty salons ) , wo n't be able to reopen at this point `` because the risk of transmission in these environments is higher . ''
The opening of those types @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in phases during Step 3 of the plan , which is planned for July 4 .
Cafes and restaurants may be able to reopen slightly sooner if they have outside seating areas that can be properly distanced .
Environment Secretary George Eustice said he wanted pubs to `` tentatively start gradually opening '' in July with social distancing in place .
From June 1 , the Government plans to allow sporting and cultural events to take place behind closed doors for broadcast , while avoiding the risk of large-scale social contact .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking at around mid-June for the return of the Premier League , if talks with the Government and operators are successful .
Football fans without Sky or BT Sport could be able to watch some live Premier League matches on free-to-air TV .
Broadcasters had previously been banned from screening matches kicking off at 3pm on Saturdays because of concerns that supporters would stay at home and watch on TV rather than attend a game .
But with matches being held behind closed doors with no crowds allowed in the stands , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protection .
June 1 could see a phased return for early years settings and schools .
Schools have been asked to prepare to start opening from that date .
The Government expects children to be able to return to early years settings , and for Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 to be back in school in smaller sizes , from this point .
This aims to ensure that the youngest children , and those preparing for the transition to secondary school , have maximum time with their teachers .
Secondary schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to begin some face to face contact with Year 10 and 12 pupils who have key exams next year .
But secondary schools are not expected to open fully until September .
The Government ’ s ambition is for all primary school children to return to school before the summer for a month if feasible , though this will be kept under review .
The Department of Education says it will `` engage closely with schools and early years providers to develop further detail and guidance on how schools should do this .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ information on the reasoning behind the decision and many headteachers say their schools are n't able to introduce socially distant lessons .
More than two dozen councils with more than 2,000 primary schools between them say they may not reopen on June 1 .
Step 2 of the Government 's plan says June 1 will potentially see the reopening of more local public transport in urban areas .
This will be subject to strict measures to limit as far as possible the risk of infection in these normally crowded spaces .
Since lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has asked people to only leave the house for very limited purposes and admits `` this has been extraordinarily disruptive to people 's lives .
In particular this has affected the isolated and vulnerable , and those who live alone . ''
Although we can now meet one other person from outside our household for exercise outside the home - like a socially distant walk in the local park - the Government is looking at other options .
It has asked advisors to examine whether , when and how it can safely change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expand their household group to include one other household in the same exclusive group . ''
The aim is to allow more social contact for isolated people .
It would also mean some families could return to work if two households share childcare .
The Government is also looking at how it could let people gather in slightly larger groups such as at small weddings .
It says it is considering `` the widest possible array of views on how best to balance the health , economic and social effects . ''

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Lockdown became a little less strict when we entered Step 1 of the Government's Covid-19 recovery strategy on May 13.
Under those changes, those who can't work from home are allowed to return to their workplace if it's open and people can exercise as many times a day as they like.
We are also allowed to drive to outdoor open spaces in England for exercise and fresh air, no more how far away they are. It's also permitted to meet one person from outside your household as long as social distancing is maintained.
And we could soon see further relaxations and changes as we approach the proposed date for the next stage of the recovery plan.
When Boris Johnson announced the exit plan from lockdown, a Government document said Step 2 would be made "no earlier than Monday, June 1" subject to up-to-date assessments of the risk posed by the virus.
So what exactly could be different from June 1?
(Image: BirminghamLive)
Shops
The intention is for non-essential retail to reopen in phases from June 1 "when and where it is safe to do so" and subject to those retailers being able to follow Covid-19 guidelines.
The Government says it will issue further guidance to explain how this gradual reopening will work, including which businesses will be covered in each phase and the timeframes involved.
All other sectors that are currently closed, including hospitality (pubs, cafes, restaurants) and personal care (hairdressers, barbers and beauty salons), won't be able to reopen at this point "because the risk of transmission in these environments is higher."
The opening of those types of businesses is likely to take place in phases during Step 3 of the plan, which is planned for July 4.
Cafes and restaurants may be able to reopen slightly sooner if they have outside seating areas that can be properly distanced.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said he wanted pubs to "tentatively start gradually opening" in July with social distancing in place.
(Image: Getty Images)
Football
From June 1, the Government plans to allow sporting and cultural events to take place behind closed doors for broadcast, while avoiding the risk of large-scale social contact.
The Mirror reports that in reality we're looking at around mid-June for the return of the Premier League, if talks with the Government and operators are successful.
Football fans without Sky or BT Sport could be able to watch some live Premier League matches on free-to-air TV.
Broadcasters had previously been banned from screening matches kicking off at 3pm on Saturdays because of concerns that supporters would stay at home and watch on TV rather than attend a game.
But with matches being held behind closed doors with no crowds allowed in the stands, there is no longer a reason for the protection.
(Image: Getty Images)
Schools
June 1 could see a phased return for early years settings and schools.
Schools have been asked to prepare to start opening from that date.
The Government expects children to be able to return to early years settings, and for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 to be back in school in smaller sizes, from this point.
This aims to ensure that the youngest children, and those preparing for the transition to secondary school, have maximum time with their teachers.
Secondary schools and further education colleges should also prepare to begin some face to face contact with Year 10 and 12 pupils who have key exams next year. But secondary schools are not expected to open fully until September.
The Government’s ambition is for all primary school children to return to school before the summer for a month if feasible, though this will be kept under review.
The Department of Education says it will "engage closely with schools and early years providers to develop further detail and guidance on how schools should do this."
Teaching unions are asking for more information on the reasoning behind the decision and many headteachers say their schools aren't able to introduce socially distant lessons.
More than two dozen councils with more than 2,000 primary schools between them say they may not reopen on June 1.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Public transport
Step 2 of the Government's plan says June 1 will potentially see the reopening of more local public transport in urban areas.
This will be subject to strict measures to limit as far as possible the risk of infection in these normally crowded spaces.
Meeting more people
Since lockdown began on March 23, the Government has asked people to only leave the house for very limited purposes and admits "this has been extraordinarily disruptive to people's lives. In particular this has affected the isolated and vulnerable, and those who live alone."
Although we can now meet one other person from outside our household for exercise outside the home - like a socially distant walk in the local park - the Government is looking at other options.
It has asked advisors to examine whether, when and how it can safely change the regulations "to allow people to expand their household group to include one other household in the same exclusive group."
The aim is to allow more social contact for isolated people.
It would also mean some families could return to work if two households share childcare.
The Government is also looking at how it could let people gather in slightly larger groups such as at small weddings.
It says it is considering "the widest possible array of views on how best to balance the health, economic and social effects."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Tottenham's stance on Jack Grealish transfer after Man United update

In the summer of 2018 , it looked almost certain that Jack Grealish would swap Aston Villa for Tottenham .
It is understood that the move was extremely close , with the Villa talisman seemingly waving goodbye to the packed away end at Hull City .
`` It was really close , '' Grealish told the BBC last year .
`` I thought the Hull City game was going to be my last game but one thing led to another and I did n't end up going . ''
Fortunately for Villa , he would stay with his boyhood team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Championship , before embarking on a stunning season in the top-flight .
His form means that he is once again , in-demand to some of the biggest names in English football , with Manchester United , Man City and Spurs all linked at one point or another .
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Google Play Store and App Store United in particular , have been heavily linked with a move for Grealish , with the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the future of Paul Pogba .
And according to Football.London 's Spurs reporter Alasdair Gold , the Londoners will take a look at him - although it is unlikely they will launch another bid .
`` I 've given my opinion plenty of times about how much of a mistake at the time it was for Spurs not to push harder to get Grealish before Villa 's new investors came in and how he could have given Pochettino a vital second option to Christian Eriksen when the team ran out of steam @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't happen and if he 's not crazily priced by Villa then United and Spurs will both look at him but I 'd be surprised if Tottenham bid again despite coming so close last time .
`` There 's a new manager in charge since those days and Grealish might not fit the bill for Mourinho as he did for Pochettino , particularly with the new midfield arrivals in the past year , even if Tottenham do need to increase their homegrown numbers . ''

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In the summer of 2018, it looked almost certain that Jack Grealish would swap Aston Villa for Tottenham.
It is understood that the move was extremely close, with the Villa talisman seemingly waving goodbye to the packed away end at Hull City.
"It was really close," Grealish told the BBC last year. "I thought the Hull City game was going to be my last game but one thing led to another and I didn't end up going."
Fortunately for Villa, he would stay with his boyhood team, inspiring them to promotion from the Championship, before embarking on a stunning season in the top-flight.
His form means that he is once again, in-demand to some of the biggest names in English football, with Manchester United, Man City and Spurs all linked at one point or another.
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
United in particular, have been heavily linked with a move for Grealish, with the latest claims stating their transfer approach will depend on the future of Paul Pogba.
And according to Football.London's Spurs reporter Alasdair Gold, the Londoners will take a look at him - although it is unlikely they will launch another bid.
"I've given my opinion plenty of times about how much of a mistake at the time it was for Spurs not to push harder to get Grealish before Villa's new investors came in and how he could have given Pochettino a vital second option to Christian Eriksen when the team ran out of steam," he said.
"It didn't happen and if he's not crazily priced by Villa then United and Spurs will both look at him but I'd be surprised if Tottenham bid again despite coming so close last time.
"There's a new manager in charge since those days and Grealish might not fit the bill for Mourinho as he did for Pochettino, particularly with the new midfield arrivals in the past year, even if Tottenham do need to increase their homegrown numbers."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Child aged 12 dies after contracting coronavirus as 157 more die in England

A further 157 hospital patients , who tested positive for Covid-19 , have been recorded in the figures released by NHS England on Saturday , May 23 .
The total number of hospital deaths in the country has now reached 25,544 .
Patients within the latest daily figures were aged between 12 and 100 years old , NHS England said .
Seven of the 157 patients ( aged between 57 and 88 ) had no known underlying health condition .
Another 30 of those who died were in the Midlands - their families have been informed .
The number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are as follows : The Covid Patient Notification System did not operate for a period of time on Saturday 16 May , meaning this may be reflected in the numbers of deaths , NHS England said .
The updated death toll comes after a split three-day week was proposed to help the UK economy recover from the Covid-19 crisis .
The Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts , Manufactures and Commerce ( RSA ) is suggesting that firms split teams , and arrange `` A teams '' and `` B teams '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday to Saturday .
The concept is based on a similar arrangement in South Korea and could help to enable social distancing and ease congestion on the UK 's roads and on public transport .
Employees would then have greater choice to combine work with caring , learning , or volunteering and lead to a future of more flexible work for both employers and employees , said the RSA .
Matthew Taylor , chief executive of the RSA , said : `` The crisis can be an opportunity for positive change .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but there is no going back to normal , even if we wanted to .
`` We are calling for a 12-month 'back to work ' strategy to help businesses plan , must contain the seeds of a better future - which creates a better future of work , builds our green infrastructure , and brings citizens and experts closer .
`` Over time , the 'team a ' and 'team b ' working could develop into a more permanent three-day week , while the negative income tax could become a basic income @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and others will clearly be subject to debate , but it 's vital we have new thinking to 'build back better ' and address the challenges we face , from the climate emergency to mass economic insecurity . ''

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A 12-year-old child has died after contracting coronavirus.
A further 157 hospital patients, who tested positive for Covid-19, have been recorded in the figures released by NHS England on Saturday, May 23.
The total number of hospital deaths in the country has now reached 25,544.
Patients within the latest daily figures were aged between 12 and 100 years old, NHS England said.
Seven of the 157 patients (aged between 57 and 88) had no known underlying health condition.
Another 30 of those who died were in the Midlands - their families have been informed.
The number of deaths of patients with Covid-19 by region are as follows:
East of England 17
London 19
Midlands 30
North East & Yorkshire 36
North West 23
South East 22
South West 10
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
The Covid Patient Notification System did not operate for a period of time on Saturday 16 May, meaning this may be reflected in the numbers of deaths, NHS England said.
The updated death toll comes after a split three-day week was proposed to help the UK economy recover from the Covid-19 crisis.
The Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA) is suggesting that firms split teams, and arrange "A teams" and "B teams", typically working Monday to Wednesday or Thursday to Saturday.
The concept is based on a similar arrangement in South Korea and could help to enable social distancing and ease congestion on the UK's roads and on public transport.
Employees would then have greater choice to combine work with caring, learning, or volunteering and lead to a future of more flexible work for both employers and employees, said the RSA.
Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the RSA, said: "The crisis can be an opportunity for positive change. We need to get back to work, but there is no going back to normal, even if we wanted to.
"We are calling for a 12-month 'back to work' strategy to help businesses plan, must contain the seeds of a better future - which creates a better future of work, builds our green infrastructure, and brings citizens and experts closer.
"Over time, the 'team a' and 'team b' working could develop into a more permanent three-day week, while the negative income tax could become a basic income floor for citizens.
"These ideas and others will clearly be subject to debate, but it's vital we have new thinking to 'build back better' and address the challenges we face, from the climate emergency to mass economic insecurity."


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Firefighters tackle blaze next to petrol station

Firefighters have tackled a blaze that broke out in a wooden bin store next to a Solihull PETROL station .
The drama happened outside Avon House , an office block , on the busy road , just after 4pm yesterday ( May 22 ) .
Luckily no one was injured in the fire .
Eight firefighters from Billesley and Hay Mills in two fire engines were despatched to the scene .
West Midlands Fire Service said : `` We were called at 4.07pm to a fire in a wooden bin store at Avon House .
`` A total of eight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5.30pm . ''
On social media , users expressed concern on the proximity of the petrol station to the blaze .
One said : `` Good job the wind was blowing in the right direction otherwise the whole of the BP garage would have been engulfed !
!
Does n't bare thinking about ! ''
Another wrote : `` I worked in this building when it was home to Hewlett Packard in 80 ’ s ... hope everyone is ok. '' A third posted : `` And all that petrol in tanks under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been standing around , that 's for sure !
. ''
Earlier this week in an unconnected incident , the Queensway Tunnel in Birmingham city centre was closed after a car blaze erupted sparking traffic chaos .
The vehicle exploded into flames inside the A38 Queensway Tunnel , near the Mailbox on Wednesday ( May 21 ) evening .
Up to 20 people were led to safety as emergency services raced to the scene .
Read more here .
The tunnel quickly filled with thick black smoke but three fire crews and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The blaze was extinguished by 8pm , allowing drivers to return to their cars .

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Firefighters have tackled a blaze that broke out in a wooden bin store next to a Solihull PETROL station.
The drama happened outside Avon House, an office block, on the busy road, just after 4pm yesterday (May 22).
Luckily no one was injured in the fire.
Eight firefighters from Billesley and Hay Mills in two fire engines were despatched to the scene.
West Midlands Fire Service said: "We were called at 4.07pm to a fire in a wooden bin store at Avon House.
"A total of eight firefighters were despatched. We left at 5.30pm."
On social media, users expressed concern on the proximity of the petrol station to the blaze.
One said: "Good job the wind was blowing in the right direction otherwise the whole of the BP garage would have been engulfed!! Doesn't bare thinking about!"
(Image: Joe Norbury and Solihull Updates)
Another wrote: "I worked in this building when it was home to Hewlett Packard in 80’s ... hope everyone is ok."
A third posted: "And all that petrol in tanks under the ground. I wouldn't have been standing around, that's for sure!."
Earlier this week in an unconnected incident, the Queensway Tunnel in Birmingham city centre was closed after a car blaze erupted sparking traffic chaos.
The vehicle exploded into flames inside the A38 Queensway Tunnel, near the Mailbox on Wednesday (May 21) evening.
Up to 20 people were led to safety as emergency services raced to the scene. Read more here.
The tunnel quickly filled with thick black smoke but three fire crews and the police escorted drivers and passengers to safety.
The blaze was extinguished by 8pm, allowing drivers to return to their cars.


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Police crack down on speeding drivers as lockdown eases

Police are cracking down on speeding drivers as more take to the roads as the nation eases out of lockdown .
The force 's road harm prevention team is set to monitor 'collision hotspots ' across the region during the next fortnight .
Motorists can expect to see officers conducting speed checks and roadside operations as part of a nationwide campaign launched by the National Police Chief ’ s Council ( NPCC ) .
On-the-spot fines will be handed out to those caught flouting the speed limit or even court action which could lead to penalty points and drivers losing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an average of 17 people are killed and 126 seriously injured in the UK each month where speeding is believed to have been a significant factor .
The force also said reducing these figures would help NHS staff who are already battling to save lives during the coronavirus pandemic .
Sergeant Jon Butler , from the road harm prevention team , said : `` We ’ re seeing more vehicles returning to the roads and we want to make sure that doesn ’ t mean more risk of serious , or even worse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` While the vast majority of motorists have respected the speed limits during COVID-19 restrictions , we have seen examples of reckless and dangerous behaviour .
`` Travelling at speed can have devastating consequences , not just for yourself but others , and also places more strain on our NHS .
`` The dedicated campaign will see us carry out visible patrols and operations at collision hotspots , and where intelligence tells us drivers and riders are breaking the law and putting lives at risk . ''
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some motorists and motorcyclists who seem to think that due to the lockdown , less busy roads offer the perfect excuse to speed and often excessively .
Well they ’ re not .
`` There is absolutely no excuse for speeding on our roads , turning them into race tracks and threatening the lives of others .
`` Speed kills , leaving tragedy behind for many innocent people and families who become victims of other people ’ s reckless actions .
That is why I totally support this national campaign .
`` My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carefully , stay safe and keep others safe . ''
For more information or advice on speeding the police website here .

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Police are cracking down on speeding drivers as more take to the roads as the nation eases out of lockdown.
The force's road harm prevention team is set to monitor 'collision hotspots' across the region during the next fortnight.
Motorists can expect to see officers conducting speed checks and roadside operations as part of a nationwide campaign launched by the National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC).
On-the-spot fines will be handed out to those caught flouting the speed limit or even court action which could lead to penalty points and drivers losing their licence.
West Midlands Police said an average of 17 people are killed and 126 seriously injured in the UK each month where speeding is believed to have been a significant factor.
The force also said reducing these figures would help NHS staff who are already battling to save lives during the coronavirus pandemic.
Sergeant Jon Butler, from the road harm prevention team, said: "We’re seeing more vehicles returning to the roads and we want to make sure that doesn’t mean more risk of serious, or even worse, fatal collisions on our roads.
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"While the vast majority of motorists have respected the speed limits during COVID-19 restrictions, we have seen examples of reckless and dangerous behaviour.
"Travelling at speed can have devastating consequences, not just for yourself but others, and also places more strain on our NHS.
"The dedicated campaign will see us carry out visible patrols and operations at collision hotspots, and where intelligence tells us drivers and riders are breaking the law and putting lives at risk."
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson added: "There are some motorists and motorcyclists who seem to think that due to the lockdown, less busy roads offer the perfect excuse to speed and often excessively. Well they’re not.
"There is absolutely no excuse for speeding on our roads, turning them into race tracks and threatening the lives of others.
"Speed kills, leaving tragedy behind for many innocent people and families who become victims of other people’s reckless actions. That is why I totally support this national campaign.
"My message to all motorists is please drive carefully, stay safe and keep others safe."
For more information or advice on speeding the police website here.


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Dean Smith lifts lid on discussions with Aston Villa owners

Dean Smith has revealed the rock-strong bond he has with Aston Villa owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens , but said : `` If you get into an argument with an owner , there 's only one winner . ''
Last week , Sawiris and Edens were ranked fifth most-wealthiest owners in the Premier League with a combined net worth of around £5billion .
Smith was hired by Villa 's mega-rich duo - under the guidance of chief executive Christian Purslow - back in October 2018 and helped gain promotion back to the Premier League a year ahead of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coach has been backed to the hilt by Sawiris and Edens to date after being handed a transfer kitty of more than £130million .
Smith , meanwhile , prides himself on having good relations with the club 's hierarchy , and said : `` The relationship with the owners and CEOs is one of the most important .
`` I can honestly say out of all the clubs I 've worked with - Leyton Orient , Walsall , Brentford and Aston Villa - I could go out for dinner with all of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the day , it 's their club .
`` You have to have a good relationship with them .
You 're not always a yes man .
You 've got your philosophy and your reasons why you do things but they 're ultimately the ones who do things and pay the money .
If you get into an argument with an owner , there 's only one winner . ''
Smith was reportedly under pressure prior to the ongoing lockdown after a run of four-straight defeats in the Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The manager spoke to the Leaders Performance Podcast about culture and pinpointed an educational trip to the US alongside Edens last year .
`` I went over to see one of our owners , Wes Edens , who owns Milwaukee Bucks , '' Smith explained .
`` They 're incredible at the moment .
Their record in the NBA is fantastic .
I went over last season just to watch them and to watch how they work and to see their team ethic .
`` You walked into their training centre and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It was one of continual learning and one of elite basketball , wanting to get better .
The coach there , Bud , was brilliant .
He was leading it all and you could see everyone looking up at him . ''
Smith and his first-team squad and coaching staff returned back to Bodymoor Heath after 10 weeks apart last week - and the boss detailed a certain thing he 'll miss given the strict health restrictions currently in place .
`` We ’ re hoping it goes back to normality but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or four months time ?
” he told the Leaders Performance podcast '' The likelihood is we ’ ll be playing in empty stadia , which is going to bring its own difference .
`` The social distancing rule will probably be in for a long time in restaurants .
`` My learning about my players , which I place great importance on , is during the dinner times , the canteen times and lunchtimes when you sit together and chew the fat .
Will that ever be the same again or will @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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Dean Smith has revealed the rock-strong bond he has with Aston Villa owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, but said: "If you get into an argument with an owner, there's only one winner."
Last week, Sawiris and Edens were ranked fifth most-wealthiest owners in the Premier League with a combined net worth of around £5billion.
Smith was hired by Villa's mega-rich duo - under the guidance of chief executive Christian Purslow - back in October 2018 and helped gain promotion back to the Premier League a year ahead of the owners' intended schedule.
The head coach has been backed to the hilt by Sawiris and Edens to date after being handed a transfer kitty of more than £130million.
Smith, meanwhile, prides himself on having good relations with the club's hierarchy, and said: "The relationship with the owners and CEOs is one of the most important.
"I can honestly say out of all the clubs I've worked with - Leyton Orient, Walsall, Brentford and Aston Villa - I could go out for dinner with all of the CEOs and owners now because, at the end of the day, it's their club.
"You have to have a good relationship with them. You're not always a yes man. You've got your philosophy and your reasons why you do things but they're ultimately the ones who do things and pay the money. If you get into an argument with an owner, there's only one winner."
Smith was reportedly under pressure prior to the ongoing lockdown after a run of four-straight defeats in the Premier League which left Villa 19th in the table.
The manager spoke to the Leaders Performance Podcast about culture and pinpointed an educational trip to the US alongside Edens last year.
"I went over to see one of our owners, Wes Edens, who owns Milwaukee Bucks," Smith explained. "They're incredible at the moment. Their record in the NBA is fantastic. I went over last season just to watch them and to watch how they work and to see their team ethic.
"You walked into their training centre and you could feel the culture straight away. It was one of continual learning and one of elite basketball, wanting to get better. The coach there, Bud, was brilliant. He was leading it all and you could see everyone looking up at him."
Smith and his first-team squad and coaching staff returned back to Bodymoor Heath after 10 weeks apart last week - and the boss detailed a certain thing he'll miss given the strict health restrictions currently in place.
"We’re hoping it goes back to normality but what will normality look like in three or four months time?” he told the Leaders Performance podcast
"The likelihood is we’ll be playing in empty stadia, which is going to bring its own difference.
"The social distancing rule will probably be in for a long time in restaurants.
"My learning about my players, which I place great importance on, is during the dinner times, the canteen times and lunchtimes when you sit together and chew the fat. Will that ever be the same again or will you sit two metres apart?"


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Police destroy 'flourishing' cannabis farm in derelict building near estate

Police have smashed yet another 'flourishing ' cannabis farm amid a huge effort to crackdown on drugs and gangs during lockdown .
Officers discovered an extensive grow inside a derelict building near Sutton Coldfield 's Falcon Lodge estate on Saturday morning , May 23 .
They found two floors of the property had been filled with rows and rows of plants - shown in an image from the bust .
It came after officers were alerted by the water board and followed another successful raid by the team just a day before .
The officers tweeted a photo of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seized and destroyed .
They wrote : `` Alerted by the water board to a flourishing crop of cannabis in a derelict building near the Falcon Lodge estate .
`` Two floors of plants were seized and destroyed . ''
Just a day before , on Friday , May 22 , officers executed another warrant on a property less than two miles away in Fledburgh Drive .
Officers acted on community intelligence to search the address and a quantity of drugs were seized during the raid .
A neighbourhood alert , issued to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` A drugs warrant has been successfully executed today on Fledburgh Drive Sutton Coldfield and a quantity of drugs have been seized .
`` This was due to community intelligence that has been given to the police which has allowed us to apply to the courts for a search warrant .
`` A big thank you from the police to you ! ''

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Police have smashed yet another 'flourishing' cannabis farm amid a huge effort to crackdown on drugs and gangs during lockdown.
Officers discovered an extensive grow inside a derelict building near Sutton Coldfield's Falcon Lodge estate on Saturday morning, May 23.
They found two floors of the property had been filled with rows and rows of plants - shown in an image from the bust.
It came after officers were alerted by the water board and followed another successful raid by the team just a day before.
(Image: WMP)
The officers tweeted a photo of the plants - which have all now been seized and destroyed.
They wrote: "Alerted by the water board to a flourishing crop of cannabis in a derelict building near the Falcon Lodge estate.
"Two floors of plants were seized and destroyed."
Just a day before, on Friday, May 22, officers executed another warrant on a property less than two miles away in Fledburgh Drive.
Officers acted on community intelligence to search the address and a quantity of drugs were seized during the raid.
A neighbourhood alert, issued to give thanks to the public, read: "A drugs warrant has been successfully executed today on Fledburgh Drive Sutton Coldfield and a quantity of drugs have been seized.
"This was due to community intelligence that has been given to the police which has allowed us to apply to the courts for a search warrant.
"A big thank you from the police to you!"


birminghammail--2020-05-23--Leeds praised for response to 'bizarre situation' affecting West Brom

Leeds United CEO Angus Kinnear has been praised for his 'admirable ' stance on restarting the Championship season .
Both West Brom and Leeds have made it public that they would rather fixtures continue , with EFL clubs set to vote on how to end the season next week .
It is now more than two months since Albion 's promotion push was halted , with Slaven Bilic 's side sitting six points clear of the promotion chasing pack .
Leeds are one point clear at the top and along with the Baggies , would be promoted if the league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points-per-game table .
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Google Play Store and App Store But Kinnear has revealed Leeds would rather win promotion on the pitch : “ If Leeds United wanted to be opportunist we could have seized on this ‘ point per game ’ commitment to push for an early curtailment in concert with some already very vocal self-interests .
“ However , our intention has always been to do all we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it – on the pitch . ''
And Sky Sports pundit David Prutton , writing in his Yorkshire Evening Post column , has praised Kinnear 's response to the crisis .
He said : “ From a Leeds United point of view , the EFL obviously still hope to get the remaining Championship games played though they have also said that if seasons are curtailed then divisions will be settled via points per game with relegation and promotion still being retained .
“ That would see Leeds crowned champions and the EFL have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early if 51 per cent of Championship clubs vote for that to happen .
“ But Whites managing director Angus Kinnear has been quick to state that Leeds want to conclude the season on the pitch .
“ It ’ s a bizarre situation if suddenly you get presented the opportunity to win the league.
” “ You can speak about football without fans but if you are bringing it back and there are actual points to play for then there is still that jeopardy which is what we love about sport , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then it is purely mathematical and down to what ’ s gone on so far in the season and that ’ s how it is worked out .
“ But I can understand what Kinnear is saying and there is a certain admirable trait to it and I think you have to make the right noises with regards to trying to get it finished on the pitch .
“ That ’ s got to be everyone ’ s first port of call .
”

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Leeds United CEO Angus Kinnear has been praised for his 'admirable' stance on restarting the Championship season.
Both West Brom and Leeds have made it public that they would rather fixtures continue, with EFL clubs set to vote on how to end the season next week.
It is now more than two months since Albion's promotion push was halted, with Slaven Bilic's side sitting six points clear of the promotion chasing pack.
Leeds are one point clear at the top and along with the Baggies, would be promoted if the league decides to resolve promotions based on a points-per-game table.
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 .
But Kinnear has revealed Leeds would rather win promotion on the pitch: “If Leeds United wanted to be opportunist we could have seized on this ‘point per game’ commitment to push for an early curtailment in concert with some already very vocal self-interests.
“However, our intention has always been to do all we can to complete this season where we started it – on the pitch."
And Sky Sports pundit David Prutton, writing in his Yorkshire Evening Post column, has praised Kinnear's response to the crisis.
He said: “From a Leeds United point of view, the EFL obviously still hope to get the remaining Championship games played though they have also said that if seasons are curtailed then divisions will be settled via points per game with relegation and promotion still being retained.
“That would see Leeds crowned champions and the EFL have also said the season will be finished early if 51 per cent of Championship clubs vote for that to happen.
“But Whites managing director Angus Kinnear has been quick to state that Leeds want to conclude the season on the pitch.
“It’s a bizarre situation if suddenly you get presented the opportunity to win the league.”
“You can speak about football without fans but if you are bringing it back and there are actual points to play for then there is still that jeopardy which is what we love about sport," he added.
“If not then it is purely mathematical and down to what’s gone on so far in the season and that’s how it is worked out.
“But I can understand what Kinnear is saying and there is a certain admirable trait to it and I think you have to make the right noises with regards to trying to get it finished on the pitch.
“That’s got to be everyone’s first port of call.”


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Summer holidays could be scrapped after schools reopen, says former Ofsted boss

Former Ofsted boss Sir Michael Wilshaw has said it might be necessary to consider cancelling summer holidays so pupils ' education can be revived when schools reopen .
He said scrapping the usual six-week break might be needed to ensure pupils do n't lose valuable time as the education system starts to get going again after lockdown closures .
Schools could reopen from June 1 after 10 weeks of closure - but usually , the summer term would end on July 20 for a six-week break before the new school year begins in September .
It would mean schools only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays sees them closing again .
`` ( Schools ) have really got to ensure that recovery programmes are put in place - that might mean working in holiday periods , it might mean weekend work with examinations due , '' said Sir Michael .
He said the UK could see a `` lost generation '' of young people as a result of the shutdown .
`` It is a great tragedy because our education system has made huge progress in the last few years , '' he said .
Sir Michael , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England and head of Ofsted from 2012 to 2016 , said research showed disadvantaged students had suffered the most from the shutdown .
As the coronavirus pandemic took hold in the UK , Prime Minister Boris Johnson had announced that schools and colleges must close from Friday , March 20 .
Sir Michael says it is time for schools to reopen again but warned that it is `` critical '' that parents are confident it is safe to do so .
`` It is all right opening up schools but if parents lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ send ( children ) in .
`` It seems to me that the Government have got a real part to play here making sure that parents have the evidence . ''
Speaking on Sky 's Sophie Ridge On Sunday programme , Sir Michael said he understood why some teachers are reluctant to reopen schools , saying : `` Social distancing with five-year-olds is a bit like herding cats .
`` It is really important that the Government get the confidence of parents and teachers and they should lay down very clear guidance and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It is no good saying we are going to let schools do what they want because some schools will do it extremely well and other schools wo n't .
`` Some schools will ensure there is a triage system in place , there is temperature testing and classrooms are intensively cleaned and so on .
`` Other schools might not be doing that so it is really important that the Government is very prescriptive in what they would expect schools to do . ''
Sir Michael said local authorities should be given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools reopen .
`` The Government really should have spent that last three months preparing the ground well , holding meetings with the parent and teacher associations to make sure all the facts are there .
`` Transparency is absolutely critical and families who do n't necessarily read all the research from the research bodies need something to go on to make that balanced judgment , and I am not sure they have received that . ''
Sir Michael said crisis in the education system could be averted if head teachers were committed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` That means convincing teachers to work the extra hours , come in at weekends and holiday periods and really intensive work they do with youngsters , particularly in examination groups , '' he said .
He criticised Ofsted for failing to monitor schools ' remote teaching practices during the lockdown .
`` Inspectors should be surveying the country to see what is happening , particularly in disadvantaged communities to see whether youngsters have got laptops , for example .
`` I know that some schools I am in touch with are struggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circumstances , so Ofsted should be doing this survey and informing Government what the position is on the ground so the Government can take the necessary action . ''

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Former Ofsted boss Sir Michael Wilshaw has said it might be necessary to consider cancelling summer holidays so pupils' education can be revived when schools reopen.
He said scrapping the usual six-week break might be needed to ensure pupils don't lose valuable time as the education system starts to get going again after lockdown closures.
Schools could reopen from June 1 after 10 weeks of closure - but usually the summer term would end on July 20 for a six-week break before the new school year begins in September.
It would mean schools only running for seven weeks before the summer holidays sees them closing again.
"(Schools) have really got to ensure that recovery programmes are put in place - that might mean working in holiday periods, it might mean weekend work with examinations due," said Sir Michael.
He said the UK could see a "lost generation" of young people as a result of the shutdown.
"It is a great tragedy because our education system has made huge progress in the last few years," he said.
Sir Michael, the former Chief Inspector of Schools In England and head of Ofsted from 2012 to 2016, said research showed disadvantaged students had suffered the most from the shutdown.
As the coronavirus pandemic took hold in the UK, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had announced that schools and colleges must close from Friday, March 20.
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Sir Michael says it is time for schools to reopen again but warned that it is "critical" that parents are confident it is safe to do so.
"It is all right opening up schools but if parents lack that confidence they are not going to send (children) in.
"It seems to me that the Government have got a real part to play here making sure that parents have the evidence."
(Image: Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
Speaking on Sky's Sophie Ridge On Sunday programme, Sir Michael said he understood why some teachers are reluctant to reopen schools, saying: "Social distancing with five-year-olds is a bit like herding cats.
"It is really important that the Government get the confidence of parents and teachers and they should lay down very clear guidance and rules under which schools should operate.
"It is no good saying we are going to let schools do what they want because some schools will do it extremely well and other schools won't.
"Some schools will ensure there is a triage system in place, there is temperature testing and classrooms are intensively cleaned and so on.
"Other schools might not be doing that so it is really important that the Government is very prescriptive in what they would expect schools to do."
Sir Michael said local authorities should be given the responsibility of policing safety standards once schools reopen.
"The Government really should have spent that last three months preparing the ground well, holding meetings with the parent and teacher associations to make sure all the facts are there.
"Transparency is absolutely critical and families who don't necessarily read all the research from the research bodies need something to go on to make that balanced judgment, and I am not sure they have received that."
Sir Michael said crisis in the education system could be averted if head teachers were committed to "recovering lost ground".
"That means convincing teachers to work the extra hours, come in at weekends and holiday periods and really intensive work they do with youngsters, particularly in examination groups," he said.
He criticised Ofsted for failing to monitor schools' remote teaching practices during the lockdown.
"Inspectors should be surveying the country to see what is happening, particularly in disadvantaged communities to see whether youngsters have got laptops, for example.
"I know that some schools I am in touch with are struggling to buy laptops for children in necessitous circumstances, so Ofsted should be doing this survey and informing Government what the position is on the ground so the Government can take the necessary action."


birminghammail--2020-05-24--Matija Sarkic set for Villa exit as Sunderland rumour swirls

Back-up goalkeeper Matija Sarkic says he intends to leave Aston Villa when his current deal expires .
The 22-year-old was enjoying a loan spell with Livingston when , in January , he was recalled following Tom Heaton ’ s serious knee injury .
Sarkic has been at Villa since 2015 but has never player for the first team , instead being sent out to other clubs for experience .
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Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 !
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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 His existing deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month and in an interview with Montenegrin outlet Vijesti he claims Villa would like him to extend .
But he says a desire for first team football means he will seek new pastures - with The Sun ( print edition , pg 59 ) claiming Sunderland and Blackpool are options .
“ It was great in Livingston , ” he told Vijesti .
“ The club , however , soon brought in the famous and experienced Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina , so there was no room for me .
“ I think that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ real chance in Aston Villa in the future , so I plan to go , despite the club ’ s desire to extend my contract , which expires at the end of June .
“ Now I am diligently preparing for the status I want , and that is the first goalkeeper .
“ There is interest , both in England and abroad .
Aston Villa is now one of the four richest clubs .
The ambitions are great , and the competition is already huge.
” As well as Heaton and Reina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first team squad with Lovre Kalinic , who was on loan with Toulouse , also in the picture .
Sarkic played 18 matches at Livingston and most recent first team involvement at Villa came on the bench in the Carabao Cup semi-final victory over Leicester - in which Nyland played .

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