birminghammail--2020-08-18--The Raul Jimenez question Wolves won't want to ask - and how they can answer it

Raul Jimenez is one of the Premier League ’ s top forwards , helping to the brink of a Europa League spot this season .
He ’ s a rare breed of striker who is entirely unselfish , just as capable of laying on assists as he is at helping himself to goals .
A total of 17 goals and six assists last season tell the story .
But when a player registers such numbers year after year , Europe ’ s elite will come calling .
The striker has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ronaldo that the Old Lady sign up the Mexican .
Should the 29-year-old leave Wolves , we ’ ve taken a look at five alternatives that could be brought in to plug the hole .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Wolves newsletter He knows the Premier League is and is in the form of his life .
Ings is Southampton ’ s best player , and while Liverpool may have proven too big a step for him five years ago , Wolves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man of his talents .
Ings could slot seamlessly into Wolves ’ system , and while the forward may not quite be as good at holding up play as Jimenez , he ’ s definitely a finisher .
Of course , he ’ ll come at a premium and it will be awfully hard to pry him away from Ralph Hasenhüttl given his importance at St Mary ’ s .
Still , he ’ s one of few players within Wolves ’ reach – and perhaps budget – who could fill a void @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Dembele is the man of the moment after two of his goals sent Manchester City packing in the Champions League .
Such a player would force Wolves to change to a more pacy approach focused on counter-attacking , but imagine the devastation Dembele could cause alongside Adama Traore .
Dembele was one of Europe ’ s hottest properties when he signed for Lyon from Celtic , and after two strong season ’ s with the Ligue 1 side it ’ s unlikely we ’ ve seen his full potential .
Cavani ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to an end as his contract with the French side expires .
That means there ’ s a top class Uruguayan striker looking for a club .
Wolves could make a huge statement of their ambitions to become a top-six side by signing the likes of Cavani , who would fit perfectly into the space potentially left by Jimenez given his ability to both score and bring in wide men .
A marquee signing who could make Wolves better , while Cavani gets to try his luck in England for the first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so why not Wolves ?
, Wolves have recently upped their efforts to secure Braga striker Paulinho .
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Google Play Store and App Store As far as like-for-like replacements go , the Portuguese Paulinho fits the bill , and while he may not be the most exciting choice , he ’ s probably the least risky .
He scored 25 times in all competitions last season , and Wolves can pick him up for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted by Lazio , but given the Portuguese connection , Wolves would be the obvious choice for Paulinho were he to move abroad .

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Raul Jimenez is one of the Premier League’s top forwards, helping Wolverhampton Wanderers to the brink of a Europa League spot this season.
He’s a rare breed of striker who is entirely unselfish, just as capable of laying on assists as he is at helping himself to goals. A total of 17 goals and six assists last season tell the story.
But when a player registers such numbers year after year, Europe’s elite will come calling. The striker has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer, and recently Juventus, with Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly ‘demanding’ that the Old Lady sign up the Mexican.
Should the 29-year-old leave Wolves, we’ve taken a look at five alternatives that could be brought in to plug the hole.
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Danny Ings - The English choice
He knows the Premier League is and is in the form of his life. Ings is Southampton’s best player, and while Liverpool may have proven too big a step for him five years ago, Wolves could be the perfect place for a man of his talents.
(Image: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
Ings could slot seamlessly into Wolves’ system, and while the forward may not quite be as good at holding up play as Jimenez, he’s definitely a finisher.
Of course, he’ll come at a premium and it will be awfully hard to pry him away from Ralph Hasenhüttl given his importance at St Mary’s.
Still, he’s one of few players within Wolves’ reach – and perhaps budget – who could fill a void left by Jimenez and even improve the squad.
Moussa Dembele – the alternative choice
Dembele is the man of the moment after two of his goals sent Manchester City packing in the Champions League.
Such a player would force Wolves to change to a more pacy approach focused on counter-attacking, but imagine the devastation Dembele could cause alongside Adama Traore.
Dembele was one of Europe’s hottest properties when he signed for Lyon from Celtic, and after two strong season’s with the Ligue 1 side it’s unlikely we’ve seen his full potential.
Edinson Cavani – the luxury choice
Cavani’s time at Paris Saint-Germain has come to an end as his contract with the French side expires.
That means there’s a top class Uruguayan striker looking for a club.
Wolves could make a huge statement of their ambitions to become a top-six side by signing the likes of Cavani, who would fit perfectly into the space potentially left by Jimenez given his ability to both score and bring in wide men.
A marquee signing who could make Wolves better, while Cavani gets to try his luck in England for the first time. Leeds are reportedly going after him so why not Wolves?
Paulinho – the safe choice
According to reports , Wolves have recently upped their efforts to secure Braga striker Paulinho.
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As far as like-for-like replacements go, the Portuguese Paulinho fits the bill, and while he may not be the most exciting choice, he’s probably the least risky.
He scored 25 times in all competitions last season, and Wolves can pick him up for around £23million.
The 27-year-old is also wanted by Lazio, but given the Portuguese connection, Wolves would be the obvious choice for Paulinho were he to move abroad.


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Investigation after driver throws dog from car near beauty spot

An investigation has been launched after a tiny , neglected dog was hurled from a car into a city street .
The 'sweet and friendly ' crossbreed was seen being thrown from the passenger door of a vehicle in Warren Lane , near the Lickey Hills car park .
She was emaciated , extremely matted and 'in a real state ' when she was taken in by a member of the public .
The abandoned pet , wearing a large dog collar too big for her size , was brought into the RSPCA 's Newbrook Farm Centre and Hospital last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the witness did n't get a registration plate , those responsible for tossing her out of the vehicle are being traced by the animal welfare charity .
The dog , who is not microchipped , is now being treated by the staff who have named her Roo .
After having her 'neglected coat ' groomed and all the mats removed , staff noted how skinny she was .
Inspector Vicki Taylor , who is now investigating , said : “ This poor little dog was brought in by a member of the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Warren Lane near Lickey Hills car park .
“ She was emaciated and extremely matted .
She was in a real state .
She is extremely friendly and sweet .
“ The public saw her being thrown from the passenger door of a car .
Unfortunately they didn ’ t get the registration .
“ She was wearing a collar and lead when she was abandoned but the collar was for a large dog and was much too big for her . ''
Anyone with information on the incident should call the RSPCA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8018 .

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An investigation has been launched after a tiny, neglected dog was hurled from a car into a city street.
The 'sweet and friendly' crossbreed was seen being thrown from the passenger door of a vehicle in Warren Lane, near the Lickey Hills car park.
She was emaciated, extremely matted and 'in a real state' when she was taken in by a member of the public.
The abandoned pet, wearing a large dog collar too big for her size, was brought into the RSPCA's Newbrook Farm Centre and Hospital last Thursday (August 13).
Though the witness didn't get a registration plate, those responsible for tossing her out of the vehicle are being traced by the animal welfare charity.
The dog, who is not microchipped, is now being treated by the staff who have named her Roo.
After having her 'neglected coat' groomed and all the mats removed, staff noted how skinny she was.
Inspector Vicki Taylor, who is now investigating, said: “This poor little dog was brought in by a member of the public after being thrown from a car in Warren Lane near Lickey Hills car park.
“She was emaciated and extremely matted. She was in a real state. She is extremely friendly and sweet.
“The public saw her being thrown from the passenger door of a car. Unfortunately they didn’t get the registration.
“She was wearing a collar and lead when she was abandoned but the collar was for a large dog and was much too big for her."
Anyone with information on the incident should call the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.


birminghammail--2020-08-18--The Tammy Abraham situation Villa will lean on in Brewster race

Dean Smith 's face said it all after being asked why Aston Villa never inserted a buy option within the successful loan deal of Tammy Abraham during 2018/19 .
The head coach was puzzled and a tad angry before telling reporters `` that ca n't happen again '' as it allowed Chelsea to basically use and milk Villa 's resources to vastly improve Abraham 's skills and credentials .
Just months after helping Villa gain promotion , the 22-year-old earned his first England cap after firing in nine goals in his opening 11 games on his return to Chelsea , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Champions League strike away at Lille .
Since his 26-goal season at Villa Park , Abraham 's value has arguably doubled to somewhere between forty and £50 million , with Smith helping to fill the striker with endless amounts of confidence thus enabling Abraham to kick-off 2019/20 in blistering form under Frank Lampard .
OK , so Abraham was always set on a return back to Stamford Bridge but the point is this : had there been a buy option of , say , £20 million , Villa would have had the upper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lampard might just have accepted knowing Abraham 's yet to do it in the big-league .
Fast-forward to this summer and , according to our colleagues at the Liverpool ECHO , Villa are one of six teams interested in taking young striker Rhian Brewster in a deal that would mirror Abraham 's move to Villa in August 2018 .
Like Abraham during his time at Bristol City , Brewster has proved himself leading the line for Swansea in the Championship after turning heads with a brilliant 11-goal haul from just 22 games played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The ECHO , meanwhile , have told us how Liverpool will make sure any loan move away from Anfield will be to either a Premier League club or a top-flight European outfit .
Villa , of course , looked at the possibility of taking Brewster on-loan back in January .
However , Smith wanted more experience and went with Tanzania captain Mbwana Samatta , 28 , from Racing Club Genk .
The boss went against placing Villa 's Premier League future solely on the shoulders of a 20-year-old kid from Liverpool who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Regarding reigniting their interest , Villa - you feel - will enquire about inserting a buy option within a loan deal and will look to test Jurgen Klopp 's resolve in an attempt to prise away one of the country 's hottest young strikers .
Smith will know full well Villa ca n't be treated as a playground for the big clubs to use to help develop their top kids .
Villa are better than that now and will not allow another Abraham or Axel Tuanzebe situation to happen again , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freely back to their parent clubs much-improved thanks to the time and care spent nurturing and enhancing them at Bodymoor Heath .
As mentioned , Villa are totally against developing other young players for the sole benefit of their Premier League rivals .
The bitter no-strings-attached Abraham loan was the last straw and a loan deal for Brewster would be on Villa 's - and not Liverpool 's - terms should an agreement get done in the coming weeks .
The ball 's in Klopp 's court with the ECHO reporting that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet to be determined .

Dean Smith's face said it all after being asked why Aston Villa never inserted a buy option within the successful loan deal of Tammy Abraham during 2018/19.
The head coach was puzzled and a tad angry before telling reporters "that can't happen again" as it allowed Chelsea to basically use and milk Villa's resources to vastly improve Abraham's skills and credentials.
Just months after helping Villa gain promotion, the 22-year-old earned his first England cap after firing in nine goals in his opening 11 games on his return to Chelsea, including a hat-trick at Wolves and a Champions League strike away at Lille.
(Image: Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
Since his 26-goal season at Villa Park, Abraham's value has arguably doubled to somewhere between forty and £50 million, with Smith helping to fill the striker with endless amounts of confidence thus enabling Abraham to kick-off 2019/20 in blistering form under Frank Lampard.
OK, so Abraham was always set on a return back to Stamford Bridge but the point is this: had there been a buy option of, say, £20 million, Villa would have had the upper hand and, at that time, Lampard might just have accepted knowing Abraham's yet to do it in the big-league.
Fast-forward to this summer and, according to our colleagues at the Liverpool ECHO, Villa are one of six teams interested in taking young striker Rhian Brewster in a deal that would mirror Abraham's move to Villa in August 2018.
Like Abraham during his time at Bristol City, Brewster has proved himself leading the line for Swansea in the Championship after turning heads with a brilliant 11-goal haul from just 22 games played to help the Swans to the play-offs.
The ECHO, meanwhile, have told us how Liverpool will make sure any loan move away from Anfield will be to either a Premier League club or a top-flight European outfit.
Villa, of course, looked at the possibility of taking Brewster on-loan back in January. However, Smith wanted more experience and went with Tanzania captain Mbwana Samatta, 28, from Racing Club Genk. The boss went against placing Villa's Premier League future solely on the shoulders of a 20-year-old kid from Liverpool who's yet to grace the Premier League.
Regarding reigniting their interest, Villa - you feel - will enquire about inserting a buy option within a loan deal and will look to test Jurgen Klopp's resolve in an attempt to prise away one of the country's hottest young strikers.
(Image: Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Smith will know full well Villa can't be treated as a playground for the big clubs to use to help develop their top kids. Villa are better than that now and will not allow another Abraham or Axel Tuanzebe situation to happen again, where two of Villa's top performers walked freely back to their parent clubs much-improved thanks to the time and care spent nurturing and enhancing them at Bodymoor Heath.
As mentioned, Villa are totally against developing other young players for the sole benefit of their Premier League rivals. The bitter no-strings-attached Abraham loan was the last straw and a loan deal for Brewster would be on Villa's - and not Liverpool's - terms should an agreement get done in the coming weeks. The ball's in Klopp's court with the ECHO reporting that a decision regarding his long-term Anfield future is yet to be determined.


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Anger as Tory politician put in charge of health body leading Covid fight

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has confirmed that a new National Institute for Health Protection will lead the fight against coronavirus - with a Conservative member of the House of Lords in charge .
Baroness Dido Harding , who currently runs the NHS Test and Trace scheme , is to be the institute 's chief executive .
She has previously held top jobs in Tesco , Sainsbury 's and telecoms giant TalkTalk .
The Institute for Health Protection will replace Public Health England , which has led attempts to stop the spread of Covid-19 and works closely with local councils .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ other issues , mainly to do with preventing illness and encouraging people to lead healthier lifestyles .
But the decision was condemned by Labour MPs , who questioned whether Baroness Harding was the right person to run a vital health body .
Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips ( Lab ) said : `` What the hell does Dido Harding know about cervical screening , substance misuse , sexual health , contraception , smoking cessation , obesity or even pandemic planning ?
`` This from government who brought you the death of 10 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for eye tests . ''
Birmingham Selly Oak MP Steve McCabe ( Lab ) said : `` This looks awfully like another distraction tactic .
Whether or not Public Health England should be reformed is something you should look at once we are through this crisis , not when we are in the middle of it .
`` How on earth are things going to improve by another reorganisation in the middle of the crisis ?
And of course , to put another crony in charge whose record over track and trace is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 's wrong with this government . ''
Setting out his plans for a shake-up of the public health system , Matt Hancock said : “ The changes that I am announcing today are designed entirely to strengthen our response.
” The Health Secretary , speaking at the Policy Exchange think tank , said : “ We are making the change now because we must do everything we can to fulfil our responsibilities to the public , to strengthen public health in the UK.
” Baroness Harding was appointed in May to lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on identifying people who have been in contact with a positive coronavirus case and getting them to self-isolate .
Since then , the programme has faced questions about performance and value for money .
An NHS app was said to be key to the scheme but has been beset by delays , with the launch of a new public trial announced just days ago .
Mr Hancock first suggested the app would be available in mid-May , but the Government ditched efforts to develop its own technology in June amid accuracy issues and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest politics updates in our daily BirminghamLive newsletter Politics plays a huge part in all our lives , much more than we immediately realise .
News and updates on the world of politics seemed to become much more important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic as we waited for news of the Government 's responses to the crisis and how it affected our daily lives .
You can get all the latest politics updates in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ briefings and announcements as well as new laws , decisions on the economy that affect businesses and our personal finances , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of course local and national elections that decide who represents us .
There 's also all the news from Birmingham City Council and other Midlands authorities on housing , education , bin collections , roads , transport , public health and so much more .
And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store Baroness Harding led telecoms giant TalkTalk when it suffered a massive cyber attack in October 2015 when hackers accessed 157,000 customers ’ details , including bank account numbers .
The Information Commissioner ’ s Office ( ICO ) fined TalkTalk £400,000 over the breach , which ultimately cost the company an estimated £77 million .
The ICO issued TalkTalk with a record fine in 2016 for security failings that it said had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bank account numbers to be accessed “ with ease ” .
Baroness Harding is currently chairman of NHS Improvement .
She was appointed to the Sainsbury ’ s operating board in March 2008 after a stint at Tesco where she held a variety of senior roles both in the UK and international businesses .
Her retail experience was boosted by her time working at Kingfisher plc and Thomas Cook Limited .
She has also served on the board of the British Land Company plc and is a trustee of Doteveryone and a member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She became a peer in August 2014 and has sat on the Economic Affairs Committee of the Lords since July 2017 .
Her husband is the Conservative MP for Weston-super-Mare John Penrose and she is a mother-of-two .

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Health Secretary Matt Hancock has confirmed that a new National Institute for Health Protection will lead the fight against coronavirus - with a Conservative member of the House of Lords in charge.
Baroness Dido Harding, who currently runs the NHS Test and Trace scheme, is to be the institute's chief executive. She has previously held top jobs in Tesco, Sainsbury's and telecoms giant TalkTalk.
The Institute for Health Protection will replace Public Health England, which has led attempts to stop the spread of Covid-19 and works closely with local councils. It also deals with a range of other issues, mainly to do with preventing illness and encouraging people to lead healthier lifestyles.
But the decision was condemned by Labour MPs, who questioned whether Baroness Harding was the right person to run a vital health body.
Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips (Lab) said: "What the hell does Dido Harding know about cervical screening, substance misuse, sexual health, contraception, smoking cessation, obesity or even pandemic planning?
"This from government who brought you the death of 10% of care home residents and long drives for eye tests."
Birmingham Selly Oak MP Steve McCabe (Lab) said: "This looks awfully like another distraction tactic. Whether or not Public Health England should be reformed is something you should look at once we are through this crisis, not when we are in the middle of it.
"How on earth are things going to improve by another reorganisation in the middle of the crisis? And of course, to put another crony in charge whose record over track and trace is hardly looking wonderful just smacks of everything that's wrong with this government."
Setting out his plans for a shake-up of the public health system, Matt Hancock said: “The changes that I am announcing today are designed entirely to strengthen our response.”
The Health Secretary, speaking at the Policy Exchange think tank, said: “We are making the change now because we must do everything we can to fulfil our responsibilities to the public, to strengthen public health in the UK.”
Baroness Harding was appointed in May to lead the contact tracing programme, which relies on identifying people who have been in contact with a positive coronavirus case and getting them to self-isolate.
Since then, the programme has faced questions about performance and value for money.
An NHS app was said to be key to the scheme but has been beset by delays, with the launch of a new public trial announced just days ago.
Mr Hancock first suggested the app would be available in mid-May, but the Government ditched efforts to develop its own technology in June amid accuracy issues and concerns about privacy.
Baroness Harding led telecoms giant TalkTalk when it suffered a massive cyber attack in October 2015 when hackers accessed 157,000 customers’ details, including bank account numbers.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) fined TalkTalk £400,000 over the breach, which ultimately cost the company an estimated £77 million.
The ICO issued TalkTalk with a record fine in 2016 for security failings that it said had allowed customers’ data including some 15,656 bank account numbers to be accessed “with ease”.
Baroness Harding is currently chairman of NHS Improvement. She was appointed to the Sainsbury’s operating board in March 2008 after a stint at Tesco where she held a variety of senior roles both in the UK and international businesses.
Her retail experience was boosted by her time working at Kingfisher plc and Thomas Cook Limited.
She has also served on the board of the British Land Company plc and is a trustee of Doteveryone and a member of the UK National Holocaust Foundation Board.
She became a peer in August 2014 and has sat on the Economic Affairs Committee of the Lords since July 2017.
Her husband is the Conservative MP for Weston-super-Mare John Penrose and she is a mother-of-two.


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Mum dies of cancer aged 26 after being told symptoms caused by contraceptive

A mum has died from cervical cancer after being told her symptoms were a normal side-effect of contraceptive injections .
Alexandra Hodson had been diagnosed with cervical cancer in June 2018 .
She had initially been told by a nurse that her symptoms - including pain during intercourse , and bleeding between periods and after sex - were just caused by the routine injections .
But when she had her first smear test , a tumour was found in her cervix and she began radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments , the Liverpool Echo reports .
In August 2019 , sister Nicola @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Alexandra to have immunotherapy .
Single parent Alexandra , who was born in Blackpool and lived in Wesham , Lancashire , had been denied that treatment by the NHS because she was n't deemed to be an exceptional enough case .
But her family were later told the immunotherapy was n't working and the cancer was terminal .
Nicola said on the GoFundMe page : `` We sadly lost my beautiful sister Saturday 8th August .
`` She was so brave , strong and determined and she fought to the very end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April that the immunotherapy had not been working and that Alexandra 's cancer was terminal which is why we turned off donations on the page .
`` It was completely heartbreaking and due to covid we knew it meant that we would struggle to make some of the memories we would have liked to and to fulfill some of Alexandra 's bucket list .
`` We still managed to make memories as a family and we spent as much time together as we could . ''
Nicola went on to thank those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the difficult time .
Nicola added : `` Just want to say a big heartfelt thank you to you all for your support , it meant so much to us how much people cared and it gave us an opportunity to try a treatment that could have been the one to save Alexandra , sadly it was n't meant to be .
`` The money we have left over from treatment as previously mentioned will go to Ella , Alexandra 's daughter , which will be put into a trust fund for when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the charity Children with Cancer UK . ''
Alexandra had wanted to see the age for smear tests lowered so they are available for girls from 16 .
In the UK , women are invited for cervical screening from age 25 until age 64 .
A spokesman for NHS England had told the Lancashire Post : `` We can not comment on individual cases .
`` Where a treatment is not routinely funded by the NHS , an Individual Funding Request can be made by a patient ’ s lead clinician .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are judgements taken by clinicians based on the evidence submitted by the patient ’ s clinician . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jenny Kirkham, David Bentley)

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A mum has died from cervical cancer after being told her symptoms were a normal side-effect of contraceptive injections.
Alexandra Hodson had been diagnosed with cervical cancer in June 2018.
She had initially been told by a nurse that her symptoms - including pain during intercourse, and bleeding between periods and after sex - were just caused by the routine injections.
But when she had her first smear test, a tumour was found in her cervix and she began radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments, the Liverpool Echo reports.
In August 2019, sister Nicola set up GoFundMe page to raise £100,000 for Alexandra to have immunotherapy.
Single parent Alexandra, who was born in Blackpool and lived in Wesham, Lancashire, had been denied that treatment by the NHS because she wasn't deemed to be an exceptional enough case.
But her family were later told the immunotherapy wasn't working and the cancer was terminal.
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Nicola said on the GoFundMe page: "We sadly lost my beautiful sister Saturday 8th August.
"She was so brave, strong and determined and she fought to the very end.
"We had the news in April that the immunotherapy had not been working and that Alexandra's cancer was terminal which is why we turned off donations on the page.
"It was completely heartbreaking and due to covid we knew it meant that we would struggle to make some of the memories we would have liked to and to fulfill some of Alexandra's bucket list.
"We still managed to make memories as a family and we spent as much time together as we could."
Nicola went on to thank those who had donated and supported her family through the difficult time.
Nicola added: "Just want to say a big heartfelt thank you to you all for your support, it meant so much to us how much people cared and it gave us an opportunity to try a treatment that could have been the one to save Alexandra, sadly it wasn't meant to be.
"The money we have left over from treatment as previously mentioned will go to Ella, Alexandra's daughter, which will be put into a trust fund for when she's older and 5% to the charity Children with Cancer UK."
Alexandra had wanted to see the age for smear tests lowered so they are available for girls from 16. In the UK, women are invited for cervical screening from age 25 until age 64.
A spokesman for NHS England had told the Lancashire Post: "We cannot comment on individual cases.
"Where a treatment is not routinely funded by the NHS, an Individual Funding Request can be made by a patient’s lead clinician.
"Decisions on whether to fund those requests are judgements taken by clinicians based on the evidence submitted by the patient’s clinician."


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Stourbridge man charged with murder as body found on hill

A 21-year-old Stourbridge man has been charged with murder after a body was found at a South Shropshire beauty spot .
West Merica Police say Richard Hall , who was from Perton , was found dead on Brown Clee Hill on Friday , August 14 .
His devastated family has paid tribute to the 70-year-old following the discovery near Abdon Burf .
They said : `` Richard was a wonderful man in every single way .
A massive loss to the family and everyone that knew him .
An inspiration to many , taken away from us far too soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the top of the hill and were investigating throughout the weekend .
A post mortem was also carried out to establish the cause of death , a spokesman for the force revealed .
Moses Christensen from Oldwinford , Stourbridge , has been charged with murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates ' Court by video link on Tuesday , August 18 .
Shropshire local policing commander , Superintendent Mo Lansdale , said : `` Our thoughts are very much with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who have lost a loved one in tragic circumstances and we will continue to support them throughout our investigation .
`` We know the local community will be concerned about this tragic incident and do not underestimate the impact it has on local people and those visiting the area .
`` I would like to offer reassurance that over the coming days officers will carry out regular patrols in the area .
`` I would encourage anyone who is concerned to stop and speak to an officer on patrol . ''

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A 21-year-old Stourbridge man has been charged with murder after a body was found at a South Shropshire beauty spot.
West Merica Police say Richard Hall, who was from Perton, was found dead on Brown Clee Hill on Friday, August 14.
His devastated family has paid tribute to the 70-year-old following the discovery near Abdon Burf.
They said: "Richard was a wonderful man in every single way. A massive loss to the family and everyone that knew him. An inspiration to many, taken away from us far too soon."
Police set up a base at the top of the hill and were investigating throughout the weekend.
A post mortem was also carried out to establish the cause of death, a spokesman for the force revealed.
Moses Christensen from Oldwinford, Stourbridge, has been charged with murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court by video link on Tuesday, August 18.
Shropshire local policing commander, Superintendent Mo Lansdale, said: "Our thoughts are very much with the family of the man who died who have lost a loved one in tragic circumstances and we will continue to support them throughout our investigation.
"We know the local community will be concerned about this tragic incident and do not underestimate the impact it has on local people and those visiting the area.
"I would like to offer reassurance that over the coming days officers will carry out regular patrols in the area.
"I would encourage anyone who is concerned to stop and speak to an officer on patrol."


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Tamworth man saddles up for September challenge for worthy cause

A Tamworth man is getting in the saddle to take on a 120-mile challenge and raise funds for Diabetes UK .
Kev Clark is taking part in a UK Wide Cycle Ride to secure money for the charity and boost his own fitness .
Since lockdown began , Kev - who commentates on Tamworth FC games as part of Lambs Media - has lost more than two stone in weight .
And he says his efforts have inspired him to not only continue to improve his own well-being but try to support some of the 4.8 million people who live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s a very worthy cause , ” he said .
“ If I can do my small bit to help the charity then that ’ s great .
“ I have been on a bit of a journey myself during the last few months , losing weight and getting fit .
“ I was in a rut and knew it wasn ’ t helping me mentally so I felt I wanted to do more exercise .
“ I can ’ t run or play football at the moment because I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impact-based exercise was out of the window .
“ So I had been going out on a bike and doing a couple of miles around Tamworth .
“ It picked up a bit and I changed bike .
I ’ ve been flying on that , doing a lot more miles .
“ I ’ ve been doing at least four miles a day and sometimes as many as eight , it just depends on the route .
“ I feel like I have taken to riding a bike like a duck to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really had any aches and pains which is unusual for me .
“ I ’ ve really enjoyed it to be honest .
It can set the tone for a whole day because you feel you have done something worthwhile and you feel good for it.
” It was then that Kev spotted the September cycling challenge where people can cycle at their own pace in their own time .
“ I saw the challenge for September and thought I could ride 120 miles during the month , ” he said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to carry on with my routine and it ’ ll make money for a really good charity .
“ It ’ s a double whammy really - it ’ s helping a lot of people and it ’ s helping me be a healthier , fitter person .
“ This is going to be a massive commitment but I really hope that I can do it.
” Anyone who would like to support Kev in his fundraising efforts can donate at https : //cycle.diabetes.org.uk/fundraising/kevs-ride-for-diabetes-uk

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A Tamworth man is getting in the saddle to take on a 120-mile challenge and raise funds for Diabetes UK.
Kev Clark is taking part in a UK Wide Cycle Ride to secure money for the charity and boost his own fitness.
Since lockdown began, Kev - who commentates on Tamworth FC games as part of Lambs Media - has lost more than two stone in weight.
And he says his efforts have inspired him to not only continue to improve his own well-being but try to support some of the 4.8 million people who live with diabetes in the UK.
“It’s a very worthy cause,” he said. “If I can do my small bit to help the charity then that’s great.
“I have been on a bit of a journey myself during the last few months, losing weight and getting fit.
“I was in a rut and knew it wasn’t helping me mentally so I felt I wanted to do more exercise.
“I can’t run or play football at the moment because I have problems with my shins and heels so impact-based exercise was out of the window.
“So I had been going out on a bike and doing a couple of miles around Tamworth.
“It picked up a bit and I changed bike. I’ve been flying on that, doing a lot more miles.
“I’ve been doing at least four miles a day and sometimes as many as eight, it just depends on the route.
“I feel like I have taken to riding a bike like a duck to water.
“I haven’t really had any aches and pains which is unusual for me.
“I’ve really enjoyed it to be honest. It can set the tone for a whole day because you feel you have done something worthwhile and you feel good for it.”
It was then that Kev spotted the September cycling challenge where people can cycle at their own pace in their own time.
“I saw the challenge for September and thought I could ride 120 miles during the month,” he said.
“It’ll give me the motivation to carry on with my routine and it’ll make money for a really good charity.
“It’s a double whammy really - it’s helping a lot of people and it’s helping me be a healthier, fitter person.
“This is going to be a massive commitment but I really hope that I can do it.”
Anyone who would like to support Kev in his fundraising efforts can donate at https://cycle.diabetes.org.uk/fundraising/kevs-ride-for-diabetes-uk


birminghammail--2020-08-18--'No surprise' - readers react as city faces possible lockdown

A warning Birmingham could face lockdown if Covid cases keep rising came as 'no surprise ' to city residents - who slammed 'selfish ' rule flouters .
Director of public health , Dr Justin Varney , said it was likely the city would feature in the national `` watch list '' of places most at risk of intervention within days .
`` We could very easily be in a situation like we have seen in Leicester and Greater Manchester , '' he warned after 321 new cases in the past week .
Health secretary Matt Hancock has imposed lockdown restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in infection - with plans to partially lift Leicester 's shutdown today .
He laid his concerns bare as he noted a real rise in infection transmission , as figures in part rose due to more people being tested .
The city had an infection rate of around 12 cases per 100,000 of the population at the start of August .
That then increased to 24 by the end of last week , and yesterday it stood at 'around 30 ' , according to Mr Varney .
As news of his warning emerged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticise those still failing to socially distance , wear face coverings and attending weddings with over 30 people .
Some feared even if a local lockdown was enforced in Birmingham , many would continue to sneer at rules designed to protect themselves and their loved ones .
`` If people took notice of the rules it wouldn ’ t come to this , '' Tina Gibbs said .
Steve Edwards added : `` No surprise with all the selfish people not wearing masks . ''
AY Jay suggested : `` What do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mon/ Tue/Wed to get into a restaurant .
Pubs packed out and no one following distance rules .
`` Banqueting halls holding function behind closed doors with more than 30 people .
Even if a lockdown was in place , I doubt people will adhere to it in Birmingham ! ''
Brenda Robinson chipped in : `` I knew that it would be longer than what they said you only had to see how long China had been locked down to know that we ’ d be in for a long haul .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be stopped ' amid fears for the economy which has suffered dramatically from the coronavirus outbreak .
Leila Partridge commented : `` They should stop lockdowns and allow people to get back to work .
We can ’ t afford to keep lockdowns going we have already got a recession , enough is enough . ''
How close are we to lockdown ?
The city 's infection rate is around 30 cases per 100,000 of the population - that contrasts with Leicester , which peaked at over 100 before lockdown restrictions were imposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the situation in Blackburn with Darwen borough , where significant restrictions were reintroduced when the rate there reached around 50 .
It 's why public health chiefs , councils and business leaders are reinforcing key messages and urging people to take urgent steps , including : * If you have symptoms , get a test - and isolate until that test arrives and the result is received .
Contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS website to order a test .
* If you are an employer and suspect infection among employees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak team and via Public Health England .
* Increase in number of incidents in workplaces as more go back to work and employees are not being as Covid safe as they should be .
`` What we are hearing when we talk to them ( after reports of a small outbreak ) is that when people are doing their jobs they are keeping the 2m distance , but when they go for a cigarette break , or lunch , or leave work , they are not . ''
`` We are seeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ People are coming together , forgetting to keep their distance , and giving a hug or a handshake - and giving Covid with it .
`` We have seen some clusters of people in the same extended family but living in different households who are sharing infection '' - and that 's putting older , more vulnerable people at risk .
`` There is much that concerns me - whether people planning large wedding receptions that they are trying to hide and keep secret , and pass off as people happening to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time ; or holding illegal parties and street raves .
`` This virus can still kill people and still just as infectious . ''
* People with symptoms still going to work and socialising with others , despite clear guidance to isolate immediately you have symptoms to avoid infecting others .
`` Go on the NHS website , book a test , and stay home until you have the result . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Stephanie Balloo, Jane Haynes)

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A warning Birmingham could face lockdown if Covid cases keep rising came as 'no surprise' to city residents - who slammed 'selfish' rule flouters.
Director of public health, Dr Justin Varney, said it was likely the city would feature in the national "watch list" of places most at risk of intervention within days.
"We could very easily be in a situation like we have seen in Leicester and Greater Manchester," he warned after 321 new cases in the past week.
Health secretary Matt Hancock has imposed lockdown restrictions in both areas after seeing sustained spikes in infection - with plans to partially lift Leicester's shutdown today.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
He laid his concerns bare as he noted a real rise in infection transmission, as figures in part rose due to more people being tested.
The city had an infection rate of around 12 cases per 100,000 of the population at the start of August. That then increased to 24 by the end of last week, and yesterday it stood at 'around 30', according to Mr Varney.
As news of his warning emerged, residents took to social media to criticise those still failing to socially distance, wear face coverings and attending weddings with over 30 people.
Some feared even if a local lockdown was enforced in Birmingham, many would continue to sneer at rules designed to protect themselves and their loved ones.
"If people took notice of the rules it wouldn’t come to this," Tina Gibbs said.
Steve Edwards added: "No surprise with all the selfish people not wearing masks."
AY Jay suggested: "What do you expect when everyone is lined up on Mon/ Tue/Wed to get into a restaurant. Pubs packed out and no one following distance rules.
"Banqueting halls holding function behind closed doors with more than 30 people. Even if a lockdown was in place, I doubt people will adhere to it in Birmingham!"
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Brenda Robinson chipped in: "I knew that it would be longer than what they said you only had to see how long China had been locked down to know that we’d be in for a long haul."
But others remarked that 'lockdowns should be stopped' amid fears for the economy which has suffered dramatically from the coronavirus outbreak.
Leila Partridge commented: "They should stop lockdowns and allow people to get back to work. We can’t afford to keep lockdowns going we have already got a recession, enough is enough."
How close are we to lockdown?
The city's infection rate is around 30 cases per 100,000 of the population - that contrasts with Leicester, which peaked at over 100 before lockdown restrictions were imposed.
But it is now alarmingly close to the situation in Blackburn with Darwen borough, where significant restrictions were reintroduced when the rate there reached around 50.
It's why public health chiefs, councils and business leaders are reinforcing key messages and urging people to take urgent steps, including:
* If you have symptoms, get a test - and isolate until that test arrives and the result is received. Contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS website to order a test.
* If you are an employer and suspect infection among employees, seek help quickly from your local outbreak team and via Public Health England.
What is driving increase?
* Increase in number of incidents in workplaces as more go back to work and employees are not being as Covid safe as they should be.
"What we are hearing when we talk to them (after reports of a small outbreak) is that when people are doing their jobs they are keeping the 2m distance, but when they go for a cigarette break, or lunch, or leave work, they are not."
* Extended family gatherings
"We are seeing this is also about family gatherings. People are coming together, forgetting to keep their distance, and giving a hug or a handshake - and giving Covid with it.
"We have seen some clusters of people in the same extended family but living in different households who are sharing infection" - and that's putting older, more vulnerable people at risk.
* Larger gatherings
"There is much that concerns me - whether people planning large wedding receptions that they are trying to hide and keep secret, and pass off as people happening to go to the same restuarant at the same time; or holding illegal parties and street raves.
"This virus can still kill people and still just as infectious."
* People with symptoms still going to work and socialising with others , despite clear guidance to isolate immediately you have symptoms to avoid infecting others.
"Go on the NHS website, book a test, and stay home until you have the result."


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Crime fears see hundreds back campaign against hostel

Hundreds of Solihull residents have urged the council to refuse plans for a hostel , which they fear will fuel crime in their area .
There has been a major backlash against an application to convert the former Fairfield care home site , in Old Warwick Road , into a 19 bedroom lodgings .
Now a petition , signed by more than 500 local people , has been handed in at Solihull Council House .
Olton councillor Katy Blunt ( Con ) , among those to have been collecting signatures in recent weeks , said she had been inundated with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` My council inbox hasn ’ t stopped since , '' she said , in reference to the local reaction to the planning application .
When news spread on social media last month , opinions were divided on whether or not the scheme should proceed .
Some residents voiced concerns that noise and anti-social behaviour would increase if the change of use was approved and also cited problems with parking in the street .
Claire Harrison said : `` That road is used as a cut through and people drive up it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been put in place because it was being used as an overspill car park for the train station .
`` There 's already sheltered accommodation on the road and a bail hostel round the corner ! ''
Although others have argued that these facilities can prove invaluable for those who find themselves in a difficult position .
Amanda Wood said : `` We 're all human and all of us need a roof over our head and a warm bed to sleep in . ''
The applicants suggest there should be enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hostel , although this has been disputed by objectors .
In papers submitted to the council , Dilip Mayariya had previously suggested that the building could house a range of groups , from students and backpackers to those in need of a temporary home .
Although Cllr Blunt said that indicating such a wide range of different uses had added to local uncertainty about the impact of the project .
While a date has yet to be set for Solihull 's planning committee to consider the plans , it is thought that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting in the autumn .

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Hundreds of Solihull residents have urged the council to refuse plans for a hostel, which they fear will fuel crime in their area.
There has been a major backlash against an application to convert the former Fairfield care home site, in Old Warwick Road, into a 19 bedroom lodgings.
Now a petition, signed by more than 500 local people, has been handed in at Solihull Council House.
Olton councillor Katy Blunt (Con), among those to have been collecting signatures in recent weeks, said she had been inundated with messages from people living in the suburb.
"My council inbox hasn’t stopped since," she said, in reference to the local reaction to the planning application.
When news spread on social media last month, opinions were divided on whether or not the scheme should proceed.
Some residents voiced concerns that noise and anti-social behaviour would increase if the change of use was approved and also cited problems with parking in the street.
Claire Harrison said: "That road is used as a cut through and people drive up it at ridiculous speeds.
(Image: Cllr Katy Blunt)
"Parking restrictions have been put in place because it was being used as an overspill car park for the train station.
"There's already sheltered accommodation on the road and a bail hostel round the corner!"
Although others have argued that these facilities can prove invaluable for those who find themselves in a difficult position.
Amanda Wood said: "We're all human and all of us need a roof over our head and a warm bed to sleep in."
The applicants suggest there should be enough parking to cater for those stopping at the hostel, although this has been disputed by objectors.
In papers submitted to the council, Dilip Mayariya had previously suggested that the building could house a range of groups, from students and backpackers to those in need of a temporary home.
Although Cllr Blunt said that indicating such a wide range of different uses had added to local uncertainty about the impact of the project.
While a date has yet to be set for Solihull's planning committee to consider the plans, it is thought that the item could be heard at a meeting in the autumn.


birminghammail--2020-08-18--John Swift 'in the dark' over potential transfer amid Villa links

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birminghammail--2020-08-18--Fears child sex abuse reports in Sandwell will soar

Child sex abuse cases in Sandwell have fallen dramatically but social workers are warning of a steep rise when schools reopen in September .
The grim forecast comes despite the numbers of sickening attacks falling by two thirds in the six months up until June .
The vast majority of victims are aged between five and 17 years-old while a baby under 12 months old was also assaulted .
Data revealed by Sandwell Council show 47 sexual assaults were notified to police and social workers – down from 177 during the whole of 2019 .
Girls were most at risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts fear the true numbers of sex abuse has been hidden by the coronavirus lockdown .
Cllr Joyce Underhill , Sandwell Council ’ s cabinet member for best start in life , said : “ We ’ ve been working closely with Sandwell Children ’ s Trust , the police , health and other partners during this extremely difficult time .
“ We need to remember that schools have been open to vulnerable children throughout the pandemic and children who are already known to us have been contacted regularly to help to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are expecting an increase in social care referrals once schools are fully open to all children .
“ Although schools are one of the highest referrers of children to social care , referrals can come to us through all services , for example from health and the police .
In July , the Chair of Sandwell Children ’ s Trust , Jacqui Smith , said she feared abuse of all kinds has gone unreported during the pandemic .
She told a meeting of the council ’ s Children ’ s Services and Education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about an increase , for example , in the cases of domestic abuse we have seen.
” She added : “ We worry , I think , that despite our attempts to do visiting , either virtual or by other methods , this has been a period of time when children who are potentially at risk have been away from the eyes of professionals whether or not that was in school or by our social workers.
” A recent statement by The Association of Directors of Children ’ s Services , on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned : “ We fully expect referrals will continue to rise as children come into contact with more professionals who would usually raise safeguarding concerns .
The pandemic has placed new and additional pressures on many children and families and we are seeing newly vulnerable families because of domestic abuse , neglect and financial hardship , in addition to those we were already supporting .
“ When all pupils go back to school in September , we are expecting and planning for a surge in referrals to children ’ s social care services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , both in-year and into 2021/22.
” • If a child is in immediate danger , you should contact the police by dialling 999 .
If you believe a child is being abused or is at risk of abuse you can find information on Sandwell Council ’ s website www.sandwell.gov.uk/reportabuse

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Child sex abuse cases in Sandwell have fallen dramatically but social workers are warning of a steep rise when schools reopen in September.
The grim forecast comes despite the numbers of sickening attacks falling by two thirds in the six months up until June. The vast majority of victims are aged between five and 17 years-old while a baby under 12 months old was also assaulted.
Data revealed by Sandwell Council show 47 sexual assaults were notified to police and social workers – down from 177 during the whole of 2019.
Girls were most at risk with 35 cases this year.
But experts fear the true numbers of sex abuse has been hidden by the coronavirus lockdown.
Cllr Joyce Underhill, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for best start in life, said: “We’ve been working closely with Sandwell Children’s Trust, the police, health and other partners during this extremely difficult time.
“We need to remember that schools have been open to vulnerable children throughout the pandemic and children who are already known to us have been contacted regularly to help to keep them safe.
“However, we are expecting an increase in social care referrals once schools are fully open to all children.
“Although schools are one of the highest referrers of children to social care, referrals can come to us through all services, for example from health and the police.
In July, the Chair of Sandwell Children’s Trust, Jacqui Smith, said she feared abuse of all kinds has gone unreported during the pandemic.
She told a meeting of the council’s Children’s Services and Education Scrutiny Board. “We are worried about an increase, for example, in the cases of domestic abuse we have seen.”
She added: “We worry, I think, that despite our attempts to do visiting, either virtual or by other methods, this has been a period of time when children who are potentially at risk have been away from the eyes of professionals whether or not that was in school or by our social workers.”
A recent statement by The Association of Directors of Children’s Services, on a government Vulnerable Children and Young People Survey warned: “We fully expect referrals will continue to rise as children come into contact with more professionals who would usually raise safeguarding concerns. The pandemic has placed new and additional pressures on many children and families and we are seeing newly vulnerable families because of domestic abuse, neglect and financial hardship, in addition to those we were already supporting.
“When all pupils go back to school in September, we are expecting and planning for a surge in referrals to children’s social care services, this will create significant funding pressures, both in-year and into 2021/22.”


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Is Birmingham heading for lockdown? All you need to know about what's happening

An updated national NHS 'watch list ' will be published on Thursday morning , listing the parts of the country where coronavirus infection rates are giving the most cause for concern .
For the first time since lockdown restrictions began to ease , Birmingham is expected to be on it .
The city has leapfrogged neighbouring Sandwell , itself troubled by a series of workplace-linked outbreaks , to claim its place on this abject 'top 20 ' .
It 's a worrying position to be in - but what does it mean ?
Is a local lockdown imminent ?
Is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
BirminghamLive crunched the data and spoke to public health experts to find out what was going on , and what was being done about it .
First , this is what is being done right now to protect the most vulnerable , which is always the primary concern for health officials .
Care homes have been asked to 'lock down ' again Guidance has been issued to care home bosses across the city asking them to ban visitors again in light of the increase in cases in the community .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the emotional toll on relatives and residents of prolonged , enforced separation .
But , said Dr Justin Varney , public health director for Birmingham : `` We made the decision to issue local guidance to care homes to keep out visitors again , because we are seeing a small increase in the number of cases among staff .
`` National guidance was sent out three weeks ago putting the onus on us to open up visiting in care homes if we could do so safely , and we have reviewed that weekly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week we could see numbers were going in the wrong direction so we have written to care homes to say stop visiting for the current period .
`` Nobody would forgive us for not protecting our most vulnerable ; when we had seen the pattern we were seeing , we had to act . ''
'Whistleblowing ' encouraged to ensure workplaces are following rules Employees and customers are being urged to flag up any concerns about workplaces , pubs , restaurants , retailers and other spaces that are not following guidance .
City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses are following guidelines and keeping their staff and customers safe - but many are not .
They have set up a web page where people can report any concerns about businesses opening illegally , or failing to comply with guidance .
In its first few days since it started up , the service is averaging about 30 contacts a day .
West Midlands Police have set up separate links for people to report individuals and groups of people not complying with social distancing guidelines or holding mass gatherings .
The aim is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public spaces by ensuring everyone is 'doing the right thing ' , while also enabling the fragile hospitality and leisure sector to begin to revive , saving jobs and livelihoods .
Around `` 60 to 70 % of businesses '' in the city have all the right risk management rules in place , are socially distancing people , practising good hygiene , with lots of visible hand sanitisers , cleaning regimes and safety barriers in place , said Dr Varney .
The task now is to ensure the quarter or more of businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and appreciate the vital role they play in keeping infection at bay .
Are other restrictions likely to follow ?
In neighbouring Sandwell , public health director Dr Lisa McNally and the council introduced a series of voluntary restrictions , designed to avoid a much more restrictive , externally imposed local lockdown , after a sudden rise in cases .
As well as locking down care homes , the council also urged people to stop having non essential visitors in their homes , and for the shielded to continue to limit contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency incident team was set up and the council launched a high profile campaign focussed on local businesses .
Mobile testing units were also set up in hotspot areas - principally Smethwick and West Bromwich , where outbreaks in specific workplaces were the source of most cases .
Dr Varney said there were no plans yet for people to be asked to restrict their movements further but he was now regularly briefing the city council leader Ian Ward , cabinet member for health and social care Paulette Hamilton , chief executive Chris Naylor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Health officials to discuss the next steps .
He and his team will also press on with community engagement initiatives , ensuring messages are reaching all communities , via traditional and alternative media , including local radio stations , and through online forums , faith leaders and community representatives .
Businesses will also be targeted - not just with education messages but , increasingly , with enforcement if they are failing to do the right thing .
`` What we are looking for now is whether the figures stay steady or begin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is fluctuation daily but what we have been seeing over the past two weeks is a consistent rise .
`` We have looked at Blackburn with Darwen ( where there have been local restrictions imposed ) and Greater Manchester ( subject to a regional lockdown ) and what we see is a direction of travel that is concerning .
`` The next two weeks is really important and we need everyone to play their part .
`` This will not shoot up overnight , we will not be in lockdown by Friday for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next week or two so is what we will be tracking carefully and it 's also why we are ramping up our response and messages to the public . ''
What does the data show ?
This morning 's data , drawing on confirmed new cases up to August 15 ( Saturday ) puts Birmingham 's infection rate now at 4.13 new cases a day per 100,000 of the city 's population - the equivalent of about 43 new cases a day .
That makes it the hotspot in the West Midlands region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low , at 1.9 cases per 100,000 people .
All the numbers can appear confusing - so we have created a short video below that talks you through a graph showing how cases are rising over time .
What the video shows is that infection rates increased slightly after more lockdown restrictions were eased in early July to allow pubs , restaurants , more shops and hairdressers to reopen , and for more people to get back to work .
But in the past two weeks that increase has been more dramatic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's important to note that the city is still way off the infection rates that triggered national intervention by Health Secretary Matt Hancock .
The most recent data for Blackburn with Darwen - still the most troubling area nationally - shows a rate of 11.99 new cases a day per 100,000 of the city 's population .
Where are people catching coronavirus in Birmingham ?
A feature of some areas where cases have risen suddenly - including Leicester and Sandwell - is that there have been clusters of cases in specific workplaces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreaks at a food processing plant and a packaging company were responsible for spikes in Smethwick and West Bromwich .
But that is not what the data is showing in Birmingham .
Instead clusters of cases are tending to be linked to outbreaks among extended family networks , in households and neighbourhoods .
`` We are seeing spikes flare up in neighbourhoods , and when we trace those back they are linked to two or three households .
For example , there was a rise in Shard End , with cases in six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through family ties , '' said Dr Varney .
`` Those individuals are likely doing nothing wrong - it could be as simple as they are visiting each other within the guidelines , and one person has caught the infection while in the community , and a door handle has not been wiped , or a handshake or hug has been exchanged . ''
Looking at the most recent data ( as shown in the picture above ) , there are currently small clusters of cases in parts of Handsworth where it borders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ End .
* If you are an employer and suspect infection among employees , seek help quickly from your local outbreak team and via Public Health EnglandAnd this is link to nhs website for tests .
If you have symptoms , get a test - and isolate until that test arrives and the result is received .
Contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS website to order a test .

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An updated national NHS 'watch list' will be published on Thursday morning, listing the parts of the country where coronavirus infection rates are giving the most cause for concern.
For the first time since lockdown restrictions began to ease, Birmingham is expected to be on it.
The city has leapfrogged neighbouring Sandwell, itself troubled by a series of workplace-linked outbreaks, to claim its place on this abject 'top 20'.
It's a worrying position to be in - but what does it mean? Is a local lockdown imminent? Is infection and illness rife in our communities?
BirminghamLive crunched the data and spoke to public health experts to find out what was going on, and what was being done about it.
First, this is what is being done right now to protect the most vulnerable, which is always the primary concern for health officials.
Care homes have been asked to 'lock down' again
Guidance has been issued to care home bosses across the city asking them to ban visitors again in light of the increase in cases in the community.
It was a move not taken lightly, given the emotional toll on relatives and residents of prolonged, enforced separation.
But, said Dr Justin Varney, public health director for Birmingham: "We made the decision to issue local guidance to care homes to keep out visitors again, because we are seeing a small increase in the number of cases among staff.
"National guidance was sent out three weeks ago putting the onus on us to open up visiting in care homes if we could do so safely, and we have reviewed that weekly.
"At the end of last week we could see numbers were going in the wrong direction so we have written to care homes to say stop visiting for the current period.
"Nobody would forgive us for not protecting our most vulnerable; when we had seen the pattern we were seeing, we had to act."
'Whistleblowing' encouraged to ensure workplaces are following rules
Employees and customers are being urged to flag up any concerns about workplaces, pubs, restaurants, retailers and other spaces that are not following guidance.
City council chiefs say around three quarters of businesses are following guidelines and keeping their staff and customers safe - but many are not.
They have set up a web page where people can report any concerns about businesses opening illegally, or failing to comply with guidance. In its first few days since it started up, the service is averaging about 30 contacts a day.
West Midlands Police have set up separate links for people to report individuals and groups of people not complying with social distancing guidelines or holding mass gatherings.
The aim is to reduce the risk of transmission in public spaces by ensuring everyone is 'doing the right thing', while also enabling the fragile hospitality and leisure sector to begin to revive, saving jobs and livelihoods.
Around "60 to 70% of businesses" in the city have all the right risk management rules in place, are socially distancing people, practising good hygiene, with lots of visible hand sanitisers, cleaning regimes and safety barriers in place, said Dr Varney.
The task now is to ensure the quarter or more of businesses not meeting the same standards improve quickly, and appreciate the vital role they play in keeping infection at bay.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Are other restrictions likely to follow?
In neighbouring Sandwell, public health director Dr Lisa McNally and the council introduced a series of voluntary restrictions, designed to avoid a much more restrictive, externally imposed local lockdown, after a sudden rise in cases.
As well as locking down care homes, the council also urged people to stop having non essential visitors in their homes, and for the shielded to continue to limit contact, ideally by staying in.
An emergency incident team was set up and the council launched a high profile campaign focussed on local businesses.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Mobile testing units were also set up in hotspot areas - principally Smethwick and West Bromwich, where outbreaks in specific workplaces were the source of most cases.
Dr Varney said there were no plans yet for people to be asked to restrict their movements further but he was now regularly briefing the city council leader Ian Ward, cabinet member for health and social care Paulette Hamilton, chief executive Chris Naylor and Public Health England and regional Department of Health officials to discuss the next steps.
He and his team will also press on with community engagement initiatives, ensuring messages are reaching all communities, via traditional and alternative media, including local radio stations, and through online forums, faith leaders and community representatives.
Businesses will also be targeted - not just with education messages but, increasingly, with enforcement if they are failing to do the right thing.
"What we are looking for now is whether the figures stay steady or begin to drop back down.
"There is fluctuation daily but what we have been seeing over the past two weeks is a consistent rise.
"We have looked at Blackburn with Darwen (where there have been local restrictions imposed) and Greater Manchester (subject to a regional lockdown) and what we see is a direction of travel that is concerning.
"The next two weeks is really important and we need everyone to play their part.
"This will not shoot up overnight, we will not be in lockdown by Friday for example - but the picture over the next week or two so is what we will be tracking carefully and it's also why we are ramping up our response and messages to the public."
What does the data show?
This morning's data, drawing on confirmed new cases up to August 15 (Saturday) puts Birmingham's infection rate now at 4.13 new cases a day per 100,000 of the city's population - the equivalent of about 43 new cases a day. That makes it the hotspot in the West Midlands region, where the infection rate is still low, at 1.9 cases per 100,000 people.
All the numbers can appear confusing - so we have created a short video below that talks you through a graph showing how cases are rising over time.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
What the video shows is that infection rates increased slightly after more lockdown restrictions were eased in early July to allow pubs, restaurants, more shops and hairdressers to reopen, and for more people to get back to work.
But in the past two weeks that increase has been more dramatic, pushing Birmingham into the danger zone.
It's important to note that the city is still way off the infection rates that triggered national intervention by Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
The most recent data for Blackburn with Darwen - still the most troubling area nationally - shows a rate of 11.99 new cases a day per 100,000 of the city's population.
Where are people catching coronavirus in Birmingham?
A feature of some areas where cases have risen suddenly - including Leicester and Sandwell - is that there have been clusters of cases in specific workplaces.
In Sandwell, for example, outbreaks at a food processing plant and a packaging company were responsible for spikes in Smethwick and West Bromwich.
But that is not what the data is showing in Birmingham.
Instead clusters of cases are tending to be linked to outbreaks among extended family networks, in households and neighbourhoods.
"We are seeing spikes flare up in neighbourhoods, and when we trace those back they are linked to two or three households. For example, there was a rise in Shard End, with cases in six households, and these were all connected through family ties," said Dr Varney.
"Those individuals are likely doing nothing wrong - it could be as simple as they are visiting each other within the guidelines, and one person has caught the infection while in the community, and a door handle has not been wiped, or a handshake or hug has been exchanged."
Looking at the most recent data (as shown in the picture above), there are currently small clusters of cases in parts of Handsworth where it borders on Smethwick, in Bordesley and Ward End.
* If you are an employer and suspect infection among employees, seek help quickly from your local outbreak team and via Public Health England.
* If you have symptoms, get a test - and isolate until that test arrives and the result is received. Contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS website to order a test - click on link to the nhs website for tests here.


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Liverpool respond to Villa's Rhian Brewster request - reports

Liverpool have reportedly fielded six enquiries from Premier League clubs to take youngster Rhian Brewster on loan .
Aston Villa were linked with a move for Brewster in the January transfer window and Dean Smith is said to be interested in landing the 20-year-old striker this summer .
According to our sister title the Liverpool Echo , Villa , Newcastle United , Crystal Palace , Brighton , Burnley and newly-promoted Fulham have all asked about the prospect of taking Brewster on loan in 2020/21 .
Championship trio Norwich City , Bournemouth and Watford - all of whom are recently relegated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been in touch with the Reds .
But Liverpool sources have told the Echo that a decision on Brewster 's future wo n't be rushed and that he will continue to train with Jurgen Klopp 's side at their pre-season camp in Saalfelden , Austria .
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Google Play Store and App Store The report states : `` The ECHO understands Liverpool will make sure any loan move away from Anfield will be to either a Premier League club or a top-flight European outfit .
`` However , the Reds are known to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to find the right path for their loanees and if an agreeable proposal can not be found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first team squad for the new campaign . ''
Brewster 's stock has risen considerably following his prolific loan spell in the Championship with Swansea City last term .
He scored 11 goals in 22 appearances for the Swans to help them reach the Championship play-offs .

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Liverpool have reportedly fielded six enquiries from Premier League clubs to take youngster Rhian Brewster on loan.
Aston Villa were linked with a move for Brewster in the January transfer window and Dean Smith is said to be interested in landing the 20-year-old striker this summer.
According to our sister title the Liverpool Echo, Villa, Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Brighton, Burnley and newly-promoted Fulham have all asked about the prospect of taking Brewster on loan in 2020/21.
Championship trio Norwich City, Bournemouth and Watford - all of whom are recently relegated from the Premier League - have also been in touch with the Reds.
But Liverpool sources have told the Echo that a decision on Brewster's future won't be rushed and that he will continue to train with Jurgen Klopp's side at their pre-season camp in Saalfelden, Austria.
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
The report states: "The ECHO understands Liverpool will make sure any loan move away from Anfield will be to either a Premier League club or a top-flight European outfit.
"However, the Reds are known to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to find the right path for their loanees and if an agreeable proposal cannot be found for Brewster, he will remain with the first team squad for the new campaign."
Brewster's stock has risen considerably following his prolific loan spell in the Championship with Swansea City last term. He scored 11 goals in 22 appearances for the Swans to help them reach the Championship play-offs.


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Tamworth's music festival has been cancelled

Tamworth 's music festival has sadly had to be cancelled due to `` reasons beyond organisers ' control '' .
The Big Tribute Bank Holiday Weekender was all set to come to Tamworth from August 29 to 31 featuring nine UK tribute artistes including tributes to Queen , Take That , The Killers and Elton John , as well as Pink , Kings of Leon , Blondie , Oasis and Adele , and over a dozen local bands and performers .
The event was being put on by Paul ‘ Brina ’ Brindley and Alex Farrell who organised the inaugural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the UK Festival Awards , which sadly had to be cancelled this year due to the virus .
However a statement released on Monday night confirmed : `` It is with great regret that we have had to make the decision to cancel the Big Tribute Bank Holiday Weekender , due to reasons beyond our control .
`` Extensive work has been put into making the event Covid secure , and our site and facilities are ready for the visiting public , so we are very disappointed to have to make this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward to when we can all enjoy 'normal times ' again , and anyone who has bought a ticket will of course be refunded and be contacted in the near future . ''
Alex and Brina could not hide their delight at announcing the festival last month .
Alex said : `` We were all in absolute agreement that we really needed to do this ; more than anything people need something to enjoy after what they have had to endure so far this year . ''
Brina added : `` Alex and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ idea after discussing the concept on Friday , we met with Statfold on Saturday morning and we had the line-up pretty much completed on Sunday with the tickets on sale Monday .
`` As soon as it became clear that government guidelines allowed an event of this kind to take place , we decided to work around the clock to create an event that people could once again have some fun .
`` It ’ s been a very challenging year for everyone so far ; people need this kind of release and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and festivals , it ’ s part of our cultural DNA . ''

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Tamworth's music festival has sadly had to be cancelled due to "reasons beyond organisers' control".
The Big Tribute Bank Holiday Weekender was all set to come to Tamworth from August 29 to 31 featuring nine UK tribute artistes including tributes to Queen, Take That, The Killers and Elton John, as well as Pink, Kings of Leon, Blondie, Oasis and Adele, and over a dozen local bands and performers.
The event was being put on by Paul ‘Brina’ Brindley and Alex Farrell who organised the inaugural Statfold Barn Festival last year, shortlisted at the UK Festival Awards, which sadly had to be cancelled this year due to the virus.
However a statement released on Monday night confirmed: "It is with great regret that we have had to make the decision to cancel the Big Tribute Bank Holiday Weekender, due to reasons beyond our control.
"Extensive work has been put into making the event Covid secure, and our site and facilities are ready for the visiting public, so we are very disappointed to have to make this decision.
"We are all looking forward to when we can all enjoy 'normal times' again, and anyone who has bought a ticket will of course be refunded and be contacted in the near future."
Alex and Brina could not hide their delight at announcing the festival last month.
Alex said: "We were all in absolute agreement that we really needed to do this; more than anything people need something to enjoy after what they have had to endure so far this year."
Brina added: "Alex and I thought it would be a good idea after discussing the concept on Friday, we met with Statfold on Saturday morning and we had the line-up pretty much completed on Sunday with the tickets on sale Monday.
"As soon as it became clear that government guidelines allowed an event of this kind to take place, we decided to work around the clock to create an event that people could once again have some fun.
"It’s been a very challenging year for everyone so far; people need this kind of release and we know that Brits love music events and festivals, it’s part of our cultural DNA."


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Tragedy as body found 'weeks' after death at flat

Officers have said they found a 'severely decomposing body ' at a Walsall flat after a welfare alert .
West Midlands Police said they forced entry to the property , which has not been identified , after the person had not been 'seen for weeks ' on Monday , August 17 .
And , tragically , a body was found inside and the occupant is believed to have had died a 'while ago ' .
Taking to social media to announce the news , a spokesman said : `` E unit , Walsall , officers have forced entry to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
`` Unfortunately , the person had passed away a while ago and was severely decomposing .
I feel sorry for the person and the family , but also for the officers .
The images and smell stay with you . ''
While some gave their thoughts and well-wishes to attending officers others have blasted the social media post as 'insensitive ' .
`` Unpleasant for the attending officers but this tweet is unnecessary as it is worded insensitively , '' one said .
While another added : `` But insensitive to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second sentence I thought ... '' But some gave their support , one said : `` The public have no idea what police and other emergency workers have to deal with .
Thinking of not only the person who has died but everyone involved in dealing with the deceased . ''
And another wrote : `` Hope the officers get the support they need as they will struggle to get over such an incident . ''

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Officers have said they found a 'severely decomposing body' at a Walsall flat after a welfare alert.
West Midlands Police said they forced entry to the property, which has not been identified, after the person had not been 'seen for weeks' on Monday, August 17.
And, tragically, a body was found inside and the occupant is believed to have had died a 'while ago'.
Taking to social media to announce the news, a spokesman said: "E unit, Walsall, officers have forced entry to a flat for a person not seen for weeks.
"Unfortunately, the person had passed away a while ago and was severely decomposing. I feel sorry for the person and the family, but also for the officers. The images and smell stay with you."
While some gave their thoughts and well-wishes to attending officers others have blasted the social media post as 'insensitive'.
"Unpleasant for the attending officers but this tweet is unnecessary as it is worded insensitively," one said.
While another added: "But insensitive to put in the last 4 words of second sentence I thought..."
But some gave their support, one said: "The public have no idea what police and other emergency workers have to deal with. Thinking of not only the person who has died but everyone involved in dealing with the deceased."
And another wrote: "Hope the officers get the support they need as they will struggle to get over such an incident."


birminghammail--2020-08-18--Birmingham City handed Cambridge United tie in Carabao Cup

Birmingham City will face Cambridge United in the first round of the Carabao Cup .
The draw was made on Tuesday , with Blues handed a home tie against the League Two side .
It will be Aitor Karanka 's first competitive match in charge with ties taking place before the opening weekend of the Championship season .
The fixtures are scheduled to take place across the weekend of Saturday , 5 September .
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In our daily Birmingham City bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 do n't think you 'll want to .
And what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Cambridge , managed by Mark Bonner after Colin Calderwood 's exit earlier this year , finished 16th in League Two with the campaign cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The U 's visited St Andrew 's in 2014 at the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of just under 10,00 watched the hosts win 3-1 courtesy of goals from Clayton Donaldson , Paul Caddis and Mark Duffy .
This year all matches will be played behind-closed-doors .
Blues were knocked out in the first round of last year 's competiton , losing 3-0 against League One Portsmouth .
Jude Bellingham , making his debut aged 16 years at 38 days at Fratton Park that night , broke Trevor Francis ' long-held record to become the youngest ever player to pull on a Blues shirt .

Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment
Why should you sign up?
In our daily Birmingham City 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?
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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