birminghammail--2020-04-29--Villa headlines as transfer battle tipped and stadium plan emerges

The radical plan to get Villa fans back to Villa Park Sanitising pods are being developed in Hong Kong which could play a part in football fans ' return to stadiums .
Large sporting events across the globe have been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic and the Premier League has been suspended for six weeks now .
Plans are being discussed to allow the likes of Aston Villa to return to action in June , though it still needs to be given the green light by the UK government .
Games are set to be staged behind closed doors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed inside the stadium , such as club officials and staff , to ensure social distancing guidelines are adhered to .
Darren Bent thinks Aston Villa should join the race for Nottingham Forest star Matty Cash when the transfer window opens .
Highly-rated wide player Cash , 22 , has earned rave reviews in the Championship and he 's playing a key role in Forest 's push for promotion .
He 's played 39 times for Forest this season , primarily as a right-back although he 's comfortable further up the pitch too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they stay up , and Leeds United - who are set to win promotion to the Premier League once the season resumes - should battle it out for Cash .
Kevin Phillips thinks West Bromwich Albion should move for Aston Villa duo John McGinn and Tyrone Mings in the next transfer window .
Slaven Bilic 's side are on course for promotion to the Premier League if the season restarts while Villa are battling to avoid dropping out of the top-flight .
McGinn joined Villa for a bargain £2.75m from Scottish Premiership side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ midfielder made the step up to top level with ease having played a vital role in promotion last season .
Mings has also proved himself in the Premier League having had his loan from Bournemouth made into a permanent stay last summer , the centre-back making his England debut in October .
Alan Hutton has offered a fascinating insight into the ambition of Aston Villa 's owners .
Hutton worked under three ownership groups during his lengthy stint at Villa Park and spent his final season under Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latter recently went on record to suggest he wants Villa challenging for a place in the Premier League 's top four in the not-too-distant future .
“ The ambition is obviously to stay up , it ’ s a competitive league , that first step up is a big one , ” Edens told Bloomberg .
Simon Jordan uses Villa to send clear message to Premier League Simon Jordan says the Premier League season must be scrapped - or football bosses risk being charged with `` corporate manslaughter '' .
Elite level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 22,000 lives in the UK .
The Premier League remains committed to completing the season and is reportedly looking at a potential return date of June 13 with matches played behind closed doors .
But former Crystal Palace owner Jordan argues the campaign should be cancelled on medical grounds with promotion and relegation scrapped , making reference to Aston Villa who would remain in the top-flight .

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The radical plan to get Villa fans back to Villa Park
Sanitising pods are being developed in Hong Kong which could play a part in football fans' return to stadiums.
Large sporting events across the globe have been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic and the Premier League has been suspended for six weeks now.
Plans are being discussed to allow the likes of Aston Villa to return to action in June, though it still needs to be given the green light by the UK government.
Games are set to be staged behind closed doors initially with a limited number of people allowed inside the stadium, such as club officials and staff, to ensure social distancing guidelines are adhered to.
Full story here.
Villa backed to battle Leeds for Nottingham Forest star
Darren Bent thinks Aston Villa should join the race for Nottingham Forest star Matty Cash when the transfer window opens.
Highly-rated wide player Cash, 22, has earned rave reviews in the Championship and he's playing a key role in Forest's push for promotion.
He's played 39 times for Forest this season, primarily as a right-back although he's comfortable further up the pitch too.
And Bent reckons Villa, providing they stay up, and Leeds United - who are set to win promotion to the Premier League once the season resumes - should battle it out for Cash.
Full story here.
Pundit tips West Brom interest in McGinn and Mings
Kevin Phillips thinks West Bromwich Albion should move for Aston Villa duo John McGinn and Tyrone Mings in the next transfer window.
Slaven Bilic's side are on course for promotion to the Premier League if the season restarts while Villa are battling to avoid dropping out of the top-flight.
McGinn joined Villa for a bargain £2.75m from Scottish Premiership side Hibernian two years ago and the all-action midfielder made the step up to top level with ease having played a vital role in promotion last season.
Mings has also proved himself in the Premier League having had his loan from Bournemouth made into a permanent stay last summer, the centre-back making his England debut in October.
Full story here.
(Image: Getty Images)
Villa insider explains message from owner Wes Edens
Alan Hutton has offered a fascinating insight into the ambition of Aston Villa's owners.
Hutton worked under three ownership groups during his lengthy stint at Villa Park and spent his final season under Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens.
Sawiris and Edens are hugely ambitious and the latter recently went on record to suggest he wants Villa challenging for a place in the Premier League's top four in the not-too-distant future.
“The ambition is obviously to stay up, it’s a competitive league, that first step up is a big one,” Edens told Bloomberg.
Full story here.
Claret & Blue podcast Have you tried our Claret & Blue podcast out? Claret & Blue is our expanded look at everything Aston Villa - and you can find it on iTunes, Spotify, and YouTube, as well as your podcast service of choice. Our writers will bring you the latest from Villa Park in their own unique style, taking a deeper look at the Villans while having a lot of fun along the way. What can you expect? Well,analysis, news, interviews and debate along with, yes, a fair amount of nonsense! That's not all though, you can find the podcast on Twitter here, and as a newsletter which you can subscribe to here. In our newsletter you'll get original articles like this and exclusive interviews before anyone else has access. What are you waiting for?
Simon Jordan uses Villa to send clear message to Premier League
Simon Jordan says the Premier League season must be scrapped - or football bosses risk being charged with "corporate manslaughter".
Elite level football in England has been suspended since early March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 22,000 lives in the UK.
The Premier League remains committed to completing the season and is reportedly looking at a potential return date of June 13 with matches played behind closed doors.
But former Crystal Palace owner Jordan argues the campaign should be cancelled on medical grounds with promotion and relegation scrapped, making reference to Aston Villa who would remain in the top-flight.
Full story here.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Whirlpool recalls 21 more models over fire risk - these are the ones affected

Washing machine firm Whirlpool is recalling 21 more models of washing machine following concerns they are a fire risk .
The firm 's vice-president has apologised for the `` worry and inconvenience '' it has caused customers .
It has added 21 additional Hotpoint and Indesit models to a product recall it started in January , saying there is an issue with the heating element of machines in warmer washes .
The Office for Product Safety and Standards ( OPSS ) said the company has estimated the latest additions will affect up to 55,000 machines on top of more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was contacting affected customers whose details it has , and urged anyone who thinks they have one of those listed to use the `` check my model '' button on the website or call the customer service team on 0800 316 1442 .
Concerned customers are warned to avoid risks by unplugging their machine completely , but anyone who does continue to use it is advised to only use cold water cycles of 20 degrees Celsius or lower .
Whirlpool VP Jeff Noel said : `` I want to apologise sincerely for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause , especially during these difficult times .
`` I 'd also like to reassure you that we are working as quickly as we can to provide solutions to affected customers as soon as possible .
`` Nothing is more important to us than the safety of our customers , and working quickly to remove the affected appliances from customers ' homes is our number one priority . ''
Whirlpool said it is following Government guidelines and has strict health and safety processes in place when deploying engineers to homes to carry out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contactless delivery and removal of affected appliances is also an option .
Since launching the recall at the beginning of the year , Whirlpool said 210,000 people had registered their appliances .
Sue Davies , head of consumer protection at Which ?
, questioned why it had taken months for the latest models to be identified .
She said : `` It 's really concerning that Whirlpool has announced that there are tens of thousands of additional unsafe washing machines in people 's homes .
Whirlpool customers are being drip fed information and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why it took almost five months for this to come to light .
`` The OPSS must take control of this situation and ensure that all affected machines have now been identified so there are no more nasty surprises in a few months ' time . ''
The OPSS said it has been monitoring data supplied by Whirlpool since the company first identified the issue , and that the latest safety announcement and recall follows its ongoing scrutiny .

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Washing machine firm Whirlpool is recalling 21 more models of washing machine following concerns they are a fire risk.
The firm's vice-president has apologised for the "worry and inconvenience" it has caused customers.
It has added 21 additional Hotpoint and Indesit models to a product recall it started in January, saying there is an issue with the heating element of machines in warmer washes.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) said the company has estimated the latest additions will affect up to 55,000 machines on top of more than 500,000 originally identified.
Whirlpool said it was contacting affected customers whose details it has, and urged anyone who thinks they have one of those listed to use the "check my model" button on the website or call the customer service team on 0800 316 1442.
Concerned customers are warned to avoid risks by unplugging their machine completely, but anyone who does continue to use it is advised to only use cold water cycles of 20 degrees Celsius or lower.
Whirlpool VP Jeff Noel said: "I want to apologise sincerely for the worry and inconvenience I know this will cause, especially during these difficult times.
"I'd also like to reassure you that we are working as quickly as we can to provide solutions to affected customers as soon as possible.
"Nothing is more important to us than the safety of our customers, and working quickly to remove the affected appliances from customers' homes is our number one priority."
Whirlpool said it is following Government guidelines and has strict health and safety processes in place when deploying engineers to homes to carry out replacements or repairs. It added that contactless delivery and removal of affected appliances is also an option.
Since launching the recall at the beginning of the year, Whirlpool said 210,000 people had registered their appliances.
Sue Davies, head of consumer protection at Which?, questioned why it had taken months for the latest models to be identified.
She said: "It's really concerning that Whirlpool has announced that there are tens of thousands of additional unsafe washing machines in people's homes. Whirlpool customers are being drip fed information and serious questions need to be asked about why it took almost five months for this to come to light.
"The OPSS must take control of this situation and ensure that all affected machines have now been identified so there are no more nasty surprises in a few months' time."
The OPSS said it has been monitoring data supplied by Whirlpool since the company first identified the issue, and that the latest safety announcement and recall follows its ongoing scrutiny.
The latest affected models are: WMAQB 641P UK, WMAQB 721P UK, WMAQB 741G UK, WMAQB 741P UK, WMAQF 621P UK.L, WMAQF 641G UK, WMAQF 641P UK, WMAQF 721P UK, WMAQG 641G UK, WMAQG 641P UK, WMAQG 721P UK, WMAQG 721P UK.M, WMAQG 741P UK.M, WMAQL 621P UK, WMAQL 641P UK, WMAQL 721A UK, WMAQL 721P UK, WMAQL 721P UK.M, WMAQL 741G UK, WMAQL 741P UK, WMSAQG 621G UK


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Villa given Premier League hope after major decision in Europe

Aston Villa might have been given a hint over their Premier League season after football in Switzerland was given the go-ahead to resume .
Villa have been out of action for almost eight weeks after the coronavirus pandemic halted all elite level fixtures in England .
The 4-0 defeat to Leicester City on March 9 , Villa 's last match , left Dean Smith 's side two points from safety with a game in hand .
The top-flight - and its clubs - remain committed to completing the season when it is safe to do and through a proposal called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a return date of early June .
Now , the Swiss government has announced that lockdown measures will be relaxed , allowing teams to return to training in small groups .
The Super League , Switzerland 's top-flight , will restart on June 8 provided the country continues to see a drop in cases of Covid-19 .
All matches will be played behind-closed-doors with a ban on events with more than 1,000 attendees still in force .
Villa have 10 matches left to play , with fixtures against Chelsea , Wolves , Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa Park .
Away from home it ’ s Newcastle , Liverpool , Everton and West Ham United .

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Aston Villa might have been given a hint over their Premier League season after football in Switzerland was given the go-ahead to resume.
Villa have been out of action for almost eight weeks after the coronavirus pandemic halted all elite level fixtures in England.
The 4-0 defeat to Leicester City on March 9, Villa's last match, left Dean Smith's side two points from safety with a game in hand.
The top-flight - and its clubs - remain committed to completing the season when it is safe to do and through a proposal called 'Project Restart' is reportedly working towards a return date of early June.
Now, the Swiss government has announced that lockdown measures will be relaxed, allowing teams to return to training in small groups.
The Super League, Switzerland's top-flight, will restart on June 8 provided the country continues to see a drop in cases of Covid-19.
All matches will be played behind-closed-doors with a ban on events with more than 1,000 attendees still in force.
Villa have 10 matches left to play, with fixtures against Chelsea, Wolves, Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Villa Park.
Away from home it’s Newcastle, Liverpool, Everton and West Ham United.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--The striking starlet who sparked Blues' FA Youth Cup campaign

The striker , who has been linked with Leeds United , Brighton and Tottenham Hotspur , has been handed a new two-year deal with a 12 month option .
George is one of five players who have been offered new contracts and is considered one of the rising stars of the Wast Hills set up .
He hit the headlines earlier this season with an FA Youth Cup hat-trick at Sunderland .
He was watched in the Fifth Round loss against Wigan - with Leeds claimed to have been present .
Here ’ s what you need to know about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Born in Birmingham the striker turned 17 at the end of July .
He has been at Blues since 2015 .
He is a boyhood Manchester United fan and is claimed to have already attracted the interest of Spurs , who were linked with him in May .
Playing for the Under 18s last season - at just 16 years old , he overcame injuries to score eight times in just five matches at the end of the campaign .
Since then he has spent time between the 18s and 23s .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club ’ s Under 23s as they beat Ipswich Town 3-0 in April 2019 .
Overall he has scored four times for Steve Spooner ’ s team , from nine starts and seven appearances off the bench .
He has also scored seven times for the Under 18s at virtually a goal a game .
That includes a 22-minute hat-trick in a 5-1 win over Crystal Palace in September .
Under 23s coach Steve Spooner , who has his 18s manager last season said : “ He looks a real threat .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he needs to tidy up on , particularly with his back to the goal .
But he is a real threat .
“ He has a physique like a middleweight boxer and you get him running in the channels against you , when he uses his strength as well as his pace , then he causes a problem.
” Speaking after the win at Sunderland this year ’ s Under 18s manager Paul Robinson said : “ With the pace of Adan George you know you have got that threat behind or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pocket and defenders don ’ t know what to do .
He drives at them his pace and power caused them a lot of problems tonight .
“ Strikers love scoring goals , Adan has scored another hat-trick and I am delighted for him.
” Up for the cup Speaking to Blues TV after his Sunderland heroics George said : “ It was a really good night , a great , great start for the Youth Cup , hopefully we will continue that .
“ I was concerned about the team getting through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my hat-trick .
“ I did want it in the first half to try and beat the 26-minute one I got earlier in the season but I am just happy I got it . ''
The arrival of Scott Hogan has given Blues a potent striker partnership - but they are the first team 's only two established strikers .
Behind them the likes of George and Jayden Reid are jockeying for opportunities .
The likelihood is he ’ ll continue to split time between the Under 23s and Under 18s once football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joining in more first team training sessions .
He could also hope to be involved in the match-day squad 's preparations in the way Jude Bellingham was last season and Geraldo Bajrami and Reid have been this .
The club will hope he signs his first professional deal .

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Aitor Karanka has handed Adan George his first Birmingham City start
The striker, who has been linked with Leeds United, Brighton and Tottenham Hotspur in the past, signed a new two-year deal with a 12 month option in the summer.
He hit the headlines last season with an FA Youth Cup hat-trick at Sunderland.
He was watched in the Fifth Round loss against Wigan - with Leeds claimed to have been present.
And with Lukas Jutkiewicz injured he has played a prominent role in pre-season, culminating in today's call up in the Carabao Cup.
Here’s what you need to know about the 18-year-old.
Who is he?
Born in Birmingham the striker turned 18 at the end of July. He has been at Blues since 2015.
He is a boyhood Manchester United fan and is claimed to have already attracted the interest of Spurs, who were linked with him in February 2020.
Playing for the Under 18s - at just 16 years old, he overcame injuries to score eight times in just five matches at the end of the campaign.
Since then he has spent time between the 18s and 23s.
With the 23s
He scored on his first start for the club’s Under 23s as they beat Ipswich Town 3-0 in April 2019.
Overall he has scored four times for Steve Spooner’s team, from nine starts and seven appearances off the bench.
He has also scored seven times for the Under 18s at virtually a goal a game.
That includes a 22-minute hat-trick in a 5-1 win over Crystal Palace last September.
(Image: BCFC/Roy Smiljanic)
What’s been said
Under 23s coach Steve Spooner, who has his 18s and 23s manager said: “He looks a real threat.
“There are still areas of the game he needs to tidy up on, particularly with his back to the goal. But he is a real threat.
“He has a physique like a middleweight boxer and you get him running in the channels against you, when he uses his strength as well as his pace, then he causes a problem.”
Pace and power
Speaking after the win at Sunderland then Under 18s manager Paul Robinson said: “With the pace of Adan George you know you have got that threat behind or the intelligent play when he comes in the pocket and defenders don’t know what to do. He drives at them his pace and power caused them a lot of problems tonight.
“Strikers love scoring goals, Adan has scored another hat-trick and I am delighted for him.”
Up for the cup
Speaking to Blues TV after his Sunderland heroics George said: “It was a really good night, a great, great start for the Youth Cup, hopefully we will continue that.
“I was concerned about the team getting through but I was always going to want my hat-trick.
“I did want it in the first half to try and beat the 26-minute one I got earlier in the season but I am just happy I got it."
First team chances
He'll clearly be behind Jutkiewicz when the leading scorer returns - but he has edged ahead of Jayden Reid, Josh Andrews and Miguel Fernandez in the first team pecking order.
He played up on his own against Spurs last Saturday and has impressed the coaching staff this summer.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Birmingham gets £31.5m for coronavirus costs but it's nowhere near enough

The government has provided £169m in emergency funding for West Midlands councils to help them cope with the costs of the coronavirus epidemic .
The cash , including £31.5m for Birmingham , will fund work including getting rough sleepers off the streets , supporting vulnerable people and providing assistance for our public health workforce , according to the Government .
But the cash is far less than local authorities say they need .
Birmingham alone requires £161m in extra funding , according to city leaders .
Extra costs include housing rough sleepers , who are currently staying in hotels , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in need and the increased cost of dealing with deaths .
While costs have increased by around £112m , the council has also seen its income fall by £149m .
This includes cuts to income from parking fees and leisure services .
Ian Ward , leader of Birmingham CIty Council , said : `` Naturally we welcome any additional funding but the Government must be realistic .
Like local authorities across the country , Birmingham City Council is spending a lot more in response to COVID-19 than the Government is currently covering .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cover all the costs arising from the current crisis , including longer term income losses . ''
MP Liam Byrne ( Lab Hodge Hill ) said : `` This is a welcome down payment but the scale of new costs and lost income about to hit Birmingham is catastrophic , and we need urgent answers from Ministers about how we are going to plug the gap . ''
Local Government Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said : “ Councils are playing a central role in our national fight against coronavirus and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with them at this challenging time . ''
The funding includes £31.5m for Birmingham , on top of £38.7m already allocated to the city in a previous round of emergency coronavirus funding .
• There 's £5.9m for Solihull , in addition to £5.5m already provided .
• Sandwell is to receive £9m , on top of £12.4 already received .
• Dudley is to receive £8.8m , on top of £10.2 previously provided .
But councils have warned that they face a financial black hole due to the coronavirus crisis .
Solihull @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost Solihull Council almost £7.5 million , thanks to a huge increase in demand on services such as social care and a dramatic loss of income from the likes of car parks .
Cllr Ian Courts , leader of Solihull Council , told the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) last week that the current situation had placed `` all sorts of pressures '' on town halls .

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The government has provided £169m in emergency funding for West Midlands councils to help them cope with the costs of the coronavirus epidemic.
The cash, including £31.5m for Birmingham, will fund work including getting rough sleepers off the streets, supporting vulnerable people and providing assistance for our public health workforce, according to the Government.
But the cash is far less than local authorities say they need. Birmingham alone requires £161m in extra funding, according to city leaders.
Extra costs include housing rough sleepers, who are currently staying in hotels, the cost of providing food to people in need and the increased cost of dealing with deaths.
While costs have increased by around £112m, the council has also seen its income fall by £149m. This includes cuts to income from parking fees and leisure services.
Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham CIty Council, said: "Naturally we welcome any additional funding but the Government must be realistic. Like local authorities across the country, Birmingham City Council is spending a lot more in response to COVID-19 than the Government is currently covering. The Government must honour its pledge to cover all the costs arising from the current crisis, including longer term income losses."
MP Liam Byrne (Lab Hodge Hill) said: "This is a welcome down payment but the scale of new costs and lost income about to hit Birmingham is catastrophic, and we need urgent answers from Ministers about how we are going to plug the gap."
Local Government Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said: “Councils are playing a central role in our national fight against coronavirus and the government continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with them at this challenging time."
The funding includes £31.5m for Birmingham, on top of £38.7m already allocated to the city in a previous round of emergency coronavirus funding.
There's £5.9m for Solihull, in addition to £5.5m already provided.
Walsall receives £7.8m, in addition to £9.6 previously provided.
Sandwell is to receive £9m, on top of £12.4 already received.
Dudley is to receive £8.8m, on top of £10.2 previously provided.
But councils have warned that they face a financial black hole due to the coronavirus crisis.
Solihull has warned that the pandemic has already cost Solihull Council almost £7.5 million, thanks to a huge increase in demand on services such as social care and a dramatic loss of income from the likes of car parks.
Cllr Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) last week that the current situation had placed "all sorts of pressures" on town halls.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Wetherspoon's announces pubs to reopen in June - here's how it will happen

Wetherspoon 's is planning to reopen its pubs and hotels `` in or around June '' , it confirmed tonight .
Britain 's biggest pub chain had announced it is starting to plan for a relaunch of its business .
It 's said to be in talks to reopen hundreds of branches across the UK .
JD Wetherspoon bosses have started work on a reopening structure that could see pubs and hotels back in business in around a month 's time .
The news comes as hundreds of hospitality businesses warned they could be forced to make thousands of redundancies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been thought that pubs and clubs would be among the last businesses allowed to reopen after months of social distancing measures and could have remained closed for the rest of the year .
But now Wetherspoon 's founder Tim Martin says he hopes to benefit from the chain generally having larger pubs than rivals , to allow the two-metre separation guidelines to be followed .
In an after-hours stock market announcement , the business said : `` The company is likely to make some changes to its operating model , assuming increased social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in customer numbers .
`` Wetherspoon pubs are substantially larger than average , and most have outside facilities .
The company believes these factors are likely to assist if social distancing measures apply . ''
Mr Martin also revealed the Government 's business rates holiday has saved his firm around £60 million and he is looking at applying for a Bank of England loan for large companies .
Wetherspoon 's temporarily shut all its pubs last month .
However , the loan may not be possible due to Wetherspoon 's not being an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures , the company said .
To stem the flow of cash leaving the company , shareholders will also be tapped up for around £141 million through a fundraiser by issuing new shares .
The 43,000 workers across 874 pubs received around 80 % of their salaries in March , despite the boss previously warning workers they would not be paid until Government funds had reached Wetherspoon 's accounts .
In an after-hours statement , the company added that sales in the six weeks to March 8 increased 3.2 per cent , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to March 15 , with Prime Minister Boris Johnson announcing a full lockdown a week later .
Wetherspoon 's said : `` The UK Government ordered the closure of pubs on 20 March 2020 , from which point the company 's sales have been zero . ''
Bosses said they are implementing an `` extensive set of measures to protect profit and cash '' putting its pubs and hotels into `` hibernation '' .
New pub openings have been put on hold and are not expected to restart until 2022 , with around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Martin 's firm also revealed it has paid suppliers due at the end of March , with 83 per cent paid in full and extended payment terms agreed with a number of larger suppliers .
However , the majority of rents due in March were deferred .
The founder said he will take a 50 per cent voluntary pay cut , along with chief executive John Hutson .
Other directors have agreed to similar cuts .
He said : `` The Covid-19 outbreak is having a severe impact on the UK pub sector @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like to thank everyone at the company , its suppliers , landlords , banks and the Government for their support and commitment .
`` We 've had to take significant action to reduce costs , decisions which have not been taken lightly .
We look forward to re-opening our pubs and hotels and welcoming back our teams in the near future . ''
On trying to access a loan from the Bank of England 's Covid Corporate Financing Facility ( CCFF ) , the company said it `` has made enquiries , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since it is not 'investment grade ' .
`` The company is regarded as investment grade by its two 'lead banks ' and by its USPP lender , and is charged investment grade rates , we understand . ''

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Wetherspoon's is planning to reopen its pubs and hotels "in or around June", it confirmed tonight.
Britain's biggest pub chain had announced it is starting to plan for a relaunch of its business.
It's said to be in talks to reopen hundreds of branches across the UK.
JD Wetherspoon bosses have started work on a reopening structure that could see pubs and hotels back in business in around a month's time.
(Image: PA)
The news comes as hundreds of hospitality businesses warned they could be forced to make thousands of redundancies in the coming weeks.
It had been thought that pubs and clubs would be among the last businesses allowed to reopen after months of social distancing measures and could have remained closed for the rest of the year.
But now Wetherspoon's founder Tim Martin says he hopes to benefit from the chain generally having larger pubs than rivals, to allow the two-metre separation guidelines to be followed.
In an after-hours stock market announcement, the business said: "The company is likely to make some changes to its operating model, assuming increased social distancing, and anticipates a gradual recovery in customer numbers.
"Wetherspoon pubs are substantially larger than average, and most have outside facilities. The company believes these factors are likely to assist if social distancing measures apply."
(Image: Getty Images)
Mr Martin also revealed the Government's business rates holiday has saved his firm around £60 million and he is looking at applying for a Bank of England loan for large companies.
Wetherspoon's temporarily shut all its pubs last month.
However, the loan may not be possible due to Wetherspoon's not being an "investment grade" business on some measures, the company said.
To stem the flow of cash leaving the company, shareholders will also be tapped up for around £141 million through a fundraiser by issuing new shares.
The 43,000 workers across 874 pubs received around 80% of their salaries in March, despite the boss previously warning workers they would not be paid until Government funds had reached Wetherspoon's accounts.
In an after-hours statement, the company added that sales in the six weeks to March 8 increased 3.2 per cent, but fell 4.5 per cent in the week to March 15, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson announcing a full lockdown a week later.
(Image: Getty Images)
Wetherspoon's said: "The UK Government ordered the closure of pubs on 20 March 2020, from which point the company's sales have been zero."
Bosses said they are implementing an "extensive set of measures to protect profit and cash" putting its pubs and hotels into "hibernation".
New pub openings have been put on hold and are not expected to restart until 2022, with around five a year from then.
Mr Martin's firm also revealed it has paid suppliers due at the end of March, with 83 per cent paid in full and extended payment terms agreed with a number of larger suppliers.
However, the majority of rents due in March were deferred.
The founder said he will take a 50 per cent voluntary pay cut, along with chief executive John Hutson. Other directors have agreed to similar cuts.
He said: "The Covid-19 outbreak is having a severe impact on the UK pub sector. In these challenging times I would like to thank everyone at the company, its suppliers, landlords, banks and the Government for their support and commitment.
"We've had to take significant action to reduce costs, decisions which have not been taken lightly. We look forward to re-opening our pubs and hotels and welcoming back our teams in the near future."
On trying to access a loan from the Bank of England's Covid Corporate Financing Facility (CCFF), the company said it "has made enquiries, but does not believe it is eligible, since it is not 'investment grade'.
"The company is regarded as investment grade by its two 'lead banks' and by its USPP lender, and is charged investment grade rates, we understand."


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Gabby Agbonlahor backs Steve Bruce in Newcastle manager debate

Gabby Agbonlahor has urged Newcastle ’ s prospective new owners to not only keep faith with Steve Bruce - but to back him in the transfer market as well .
Sky Sports have reported Mauricio Pochettino is the leading contender to take over at St James ’ Park once the takeover is complete , claiming the former Spurs boss could even be paid £19million a year .
However , Agbonlahor , who played under Bruce at Aston Villa , reckons his former boss has done well enough this season to deserve a crack at it next .
The former striker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa appearances under Bruce and says that despite the acrimony surrounding the manager ’ s departure from Villa Park , that he is a ‘ good manager ’ .
“ It would be really harsh on Steve Bruce , ” he told talkSPORT on Wednesday afternoon .
“ I think the job he has done at Newcastle , no one expected them to have the season they have had , he has done wonders with the squad Newcastle have got available .
“ I think he has done really well so why not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new manager , maybe Pochettino might get .
“ Why not give Steve Bruce a chance to get better quality players because he is a good manager .
I worked with him at Aston Villa and he has done a good job here .
“ It is harsh , isn ’ t it ?
We are not certain at the moment that it will be Pochettino , but what manager wouldn ’ t want a job with owners that Newcastle are going to have .
“ I remember Chelsea when Jose Mourinho first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new player everyday .
When Newcastle get taken over , give him [ Bruce ] that sort of money to spend because he will go out and get attacking players Newcastle fans will want to see .
“ The football will change because they will have better players .
So why not give him that chance and a chance to prove himself .
”

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Gabby Agbonlahor has urged Newcastle’s prospective new owners to not only keep faith with Steve Bruce - but to back him in the transfer market as well.
Sky Sports have reported Mauricio Pochettino is the leading contender to take over at St James’ Park once the takeover is complete, claiming the former Spurs boss could even be paid £19million a year.
However, Agbonlahor, who played under Bruce at Aston Villa, reckons his former boss has done well enough this season to deserve a crack at it next.
The former striker made the final 20 of his 391 Villa appearances under Bruce and says that despite the acrimony surrounding the manager’s departure from Villa Park, that he is a ‘good manager’.
“It would be really harsh on Steve Bruce,” he told talkSPORT on Wednesday afternoon.
“I think the job he has done at Newcastle, no one expected them to have the season they have had, he has done wonders with the squad Newcastle have got available.
“I think he has done really well so why not give Steve Bruce the money that a new manager, maybe Pochettino might get.
“Why not give Steve Bruce a chance to get better quality players because he is a good manager. I worked with him at Aston Villa and he has done a good job here.
“It is harsh, isn’t it? We are not certain at the moment that it will be Pochettino, but what manager wouldn’t want a job with owners that Newcastle are going to have.
“I remember Chelsea when Jose Mourinho first came in, they were buying a new player everyday.
When Newcastle get taken over, give him [Bruce] that sort of money to spend because he will go out and get attacking players Newcastle fans will want to see.
“The football will change because they will have better players. So why not give him that chance and a chance to prove himself.”


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Neville reacts to recommendation that would deny West Brom promotion

Gary Neville has claimed the 2019/20 season would already be cancelled by now if the discussion surrounding its potential restart was n't 'purely economic ' .
FIFA 's medical chief yesterday urged English football authorities to resist calls to resume the campaign .
Michel D'Hooghe told the Telegraph the current shutdown must be kept in place until 'August or September ' at the earliest to avoid a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic .
Advising for the current season to be scrapped , D'Hooghe said : `` We are all subject to decisions at national level from the public authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suddenly becomes not the most important thing in life .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com '' I will be happy if we can start , in a convenient way , the next championship and have nothing before the start of next season . ''
He added : `` If there is one circumstance where medical arguments should win against economical arguments , it is now .
It is not a matter of money , it is a matter of life and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Cancelling the campaign would come as a massive blow to West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United , who have been in the Championship 's automatic promotion places since November .
Former Manchester United full-back Neville told the Mirror : `` The FIFA medical officer said that football should not take place before September .
I think if it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months .
`` People are now assessing risk .
How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One member of staff goes into intensive care ?
What risk do we have to take ?
The discussion is purely economic . ''
The EFL and Premier League remain committed to finishing the season when it is safe to do and there has been talk of a potential June restart .
Neville added : `` There will be people who will view it as a risk factor .
Players themselves will want to go and play .
Players at the lower levels will want to go play and 1,400 players are out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investment in this season .
Think about what ’ s at stake for Leeds , it ’ s absolutely massive .
There are big prizes up for grabs .
There ’ s huge economic loss .
It clouds people ’ s minds in terms of the risk that they ’ re willing to take . ''

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Gary Neville has claimed the 2019/20 season would already be cancelled by now if the discussion surrounding its potential restart wasn't 'purely economic'.
FIFA's medical chief yesterday urged English football authorities to resist calls to resume the campaign.
Michel D'Hooghe told the Telegraph the current shutdown must be kept in place until 'August or September' at the earliest to avoid a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.
Advising for the current season to be scrapped, D'Hooghe said: "We are all subject to decisions at national level from the public authorities. It is very simple. Football suddenly becomes not the most important thing in life.
"I will be happy if we can start, in a convenient way, the next championship and have nothing before the start of next season."
He added: "If there is one circumstance where medical arguments should win against economical arguments, it is now. It is not a matter of money, it is a matter of life and death. It is very simple."
Cancelling the campaign would come as a massive blow to West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United, who have been in the Championship's automatic promotion places since November.
Former Manchester United full-back Neville told the Mirror: "The FIFA medical officer said that football should not take place before September. I think if it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months.
"People are now assessing risk. How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes unpalatable? One? One player? One member of staff goes into intensive care? What risk do we have to take? The discussion is purely economic."
The EFL and Premier League remain committed to finishing the season when it is safe to do and there has been talk of a potential June restart.
Neville added: "There will be people who will view it as a risk factor. Players themselves will want to go and play. Players at the lower levels will want to go play and 1,400 players are out of contract.
"Clubs have huge investment in this season. Think about what’s at stake for Leeds, it’s absolutely massive. There are big prizes up for grabs. There’s huge economic loss. It clouds people’s minds in terms of the risk that they’re willing to take."


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Teenager charged with murder of much-loved dad Karl Gallagher

A teenager has been charged with the murder of a much-loved father who was stabbed to death in Smethwick .
Karl Gallagher died from a single stab wound to the chest at the West Cross Shopping Centre at around 4.40pm on Sunday ( April 26 ) .
Sadly , nothing could be done to save him and he was pronounced dead at the scene .
Tyrell Harris , 19 , of Helvellyn Way , West Bromwich , has now been charged with the 31-year-old 's murder .
He has been remanded in custody to appear before Wolverhampton Magistrates ' Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Three other men arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on bail while the investigation continues , while three men arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender have been released pending investigation , as has a man arrested on suspicion of obstructing police .
Officers have been examining CCTV and mobile phone footage from the scene , some of which has been widely circulated on social media .
West Midlands Police has urged people not to share on social media as it could prejudice future proceedings .
Anyone who does share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The force has set up a dedicated website where people can share any footage they may have .
It can be accessed by clicking here .
Following Karl 's tragic death , his family said : `` Karl was a very dearly loved son , brother , nephew , cousin and partner .
He was also a proud and loving father .
`` His friends and family are devastated . ''
A JustGiving page has also been set up to raise funds for the Smethwick father 's funeral , with more than £1,000 @ @ @

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A teenager has been charged with the murder of a much-loved father who was stabbed to death in Smethwick.
Karl Gallagher died from a single stab wound to the chest at the West Cross Shopping Centre at around 4.40pm on Sunday (April 26).
Sadly, nothing could be done to save him and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Tyrell Harris, 19, of Helvellyn Way, West Bromwich, has now been charged with the 31-year-old's murder. He has been remanded in custody to appear before Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Thursday, April 30).
Three other men arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on bail while the investigation continues, while three men arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender have been released pending investigation, as has a man arrested on suspicion of obstructing police.
Officers have been examining CCTV and mobile phone footage from the scene, some of which has been widely circulated on social media.
West Midlands Police has urged people not to share on social media as it could prejudice future proceedings. Anyone who does share it risks committing a criminal offence.
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The force has set up a dedicated website where people can share any footage they may have. It can be accessed by clicking here.
Following Karl's tragic death, his family said: "Karl was a very dearly loved son, brother, nephew, cousin and partner. He was also a proud and loving father.
"His friends and family are devastated."
A JustGiving page has also been set up to raise funds for the Smethwick father's funeral, with more than £1,000 already donated.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--The unforgettable day when fans flocked to save Birmingham City

Three years ago today came an afternoon that was so Birmingham City .
Hobbled by self inflicted wounds , both on the day and for half of the 2016/2017 campaign , Blues needed their public like never before .
The disastrous decision to replace Gary Rowett with Gianfranco Zola had left the club staring into the abyss .
The Italian ’ s record of two wins from 24 games had seen a hard-working and functional side reduced to a shadow of itself .
A possible play-off challenge had melted away to be replaced by the white heat of a relegation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three seasons Blues were on contemplating League One .
And then came Harry Redknapp , the veteran manager who had the charisma and experience to resuscitate a team that had slipped into a coma .
Redknapp ’ s first game had ended in a 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa – and in the dismissal and suspension of club captain Paul Robinson .
Blues ’ fate would be decided by the final two matches , at home to Huddersfield on April 29 , 2017 and away to Bristol City a week later .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and done everything , walked out at St Andrew ’ s as Birmingham City ’ s manager for the first – and potentially only – time .
There was no fanfare , he sloped quietly down the touchline just before the game was about to kick-off , unnoticed by the biggest attendance in six years .
Nearly 27,000 had filled all four stands responding to the crisis – and answering of a call to arms that sticks out in Michael Morrison ’ s memory .
The centre half was captain that day and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after complications following surgery on a hernia had left him bed-ridden .
“ When the team ’ s at it lowest point you can always rely on the club coming together and the fans connecting with the players – especially at St Andrew ’ s , ” Morrison recalls .
“ There are a few times I have seen that , at home they can really get behind the lads and be that twelfth man .
“ I know it ’ s a cliché but certainly that day , you look at all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to get behind the players – we hadn ’ t been performing for a long period – but that shows their loyalty to stick with the team.
” If the support from Bluenoses could be guaranteed , the outcome could not .
Redknapp was brought in to extinguish Zola ’ s fire for the final three matches .
“ Looking back probably keeping Gianfranco for those couple of games over Easter , we had a real bad spell where we drew at Rotherham and lost at home to Burton .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the point where he changed the manager – but we didn ’ t and that ’ s why it stretched to the last three games .
“ People were surprised Harry had taken the job , I had spoken to Paul Robinson because I thought he would .
`` I had said ‘ If they do want you to do it you will have the backing of the players ’ .
“ Somebody of Harry ’ s profile really did lift the place and he gave all the players an uplift ‘ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ .
“ And to be fair Steve Cotterill really knew his stuff at that time and him and Harry worked quite nicely together .
“ There was a clear plan how we were going to play against Huddersfield .
We had gone back to basics a bit , concentrating on being a bit more resolute and to be honest just Harry coming in gave everyone a new lease of life .
“ Going into the game Che Adams had been terrific in training , Harry had just sort of lit up Che @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see he had enjoyed training that week .
He had a little spring in his step that Harry had given him.
” Even then Blues made it hard for themselves .
The hordes watched on as Lukas Jutkiewicz missed an early penalty , before Adams was shown a nonsensical red card .
Thankfully Jonathan Grounds gave the ten men something to cling to in the 41st minute .
“ There wasn ’ t really a stoppage in the game , it wasn ’ t until half time that we got in and started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we needed to do .
“ We were lucky that we scored just before half time and gave us something to hang on to rather than have to come out and chase the game .
“ I remember we came in at half time and there was lots of talking going on , lots of ‘ We need to do this , we need to do that ’ .
“ Steve was in there saying all sorts and shouting – and Harry just came in and told everyone to sit down , take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talked about the second half .
“ He was really a calming influence on the team and we went out and comfortably won the game.
” Craig Gardner added a second half penalty and the full stadium was rewarded for answering the call to arms – and Morrison was paid back for also coming to his team ’ s aid .
“ A lot of the time from February to March I was at home in bed unable to get up .
“ I ’ d had injections before playing under Gary then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I could have done with Gary keeping the job so he could have managed me a bit better .
“ But when you have a new manager it ’ s impossible , they want to see you training everyday – especially as captain .
“ You don ’ t want to be not playing , it can look bad on you with how controversial the change had been as well , I tried to train through it but couldn ’ t .
“ It was really hard watching the team in that period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back – the plan was not to be back at all that season after the operation didn ’ t go well .
I had a lot of problems I couldn ’ t get rid of - that was a bad time for me personally .
“ It came to it that I did need to play – the Huddersfield game was that real turning point.
” A turning point for Redknapp – who was convinced to stay on permanently , for better or worse , a turning point for Blues who completed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It didn ’ t work out for Harry in the long run – but he was crucial in that period .
“ As for the fans , other clubs would not have done that but they dragged us through it .
`` I ’ d give them a couple of assists – if Groundsy scored someone must have helped him.
” Someone , or 27,000 someones .

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Three years ago yesterday came an afternoon that was so Birmingham City.
Hobbled by self inflicted wounds, both on the day and for half of the 2016/2017 campaign, Blues needed their public like never before.
The disastrous decision to replace Gary Rowett with Gianfranco Zola had left the club staring into the abyss.
The Italian’s record of two wins from 24 games had seen a hard-working and functional side reduced to a shadow of itself.
A possible play-off challenge had melted away to be replaced by the white heat of a relegation battle and for the second time in three seasons Blues were on contemplating League One.
And then came Harry Redknapp, the veteran manager who had the charisma and experience to resuscitate a team that had slipped into a coma.
Redknapp’s first game had ended in a 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa – and in the dismissal and suspension of club captain Paul Robinson.
Blues ’ fate would be decided by the final two matches, at home to Huddersfield on April 29, 2017 and away to Bristol City a week later.
The 70-year-old who had been everywhere and seen and done everything, walked out at St Andrew’s as Birmingham City’s manager for the first – and potentially only – time.
There was no fanfare, he sloped quietly down the touchline just before the game was about to kick-off, unnoticed by the biggest attendance in six years.
Nearly 27,000 had filled all four stands responding to the crisis – and answering of a call to arms that sticks out in Michael Morrison’s memory.
The centre half was captain that day and making his first appearance in three months after complications following surgery on a hernia had left him bed-ridden.
“When the team’s at it lowest point you can always rely on the club coming together and the fans connecting with the players – especially at St Andrew’s,” Morrison recalls.
“There are a few times I have seen that, at home they can really get behind the lads and be that twelfth man.
“I know it’s a cliché but certainly that day, you look at all the adversity – they didn’t have to get behind the players – we hadn’t been performing for a long period – but that shows their loyalty to stick with the team.”
If the support from Bluenoses could be guaranteed, the outcome could not.
Redknapp was brought in to extinguish Zola’s fire for the final three matches.
“Looking back probably keeping Gianfranco for those couple of games over Easter, we had a real bad spell where we drew at Rotherham and lost at home to Burton.
“I think many thought that should have been the point where he changed the manager – but we didn’t and that’s why it stretched to the last three games.
“People were surprised Harry had taken the job, I had spoken to Paul Robinson because I thought he would.
"I had said ‘If they do want you to do it you will have the backing of the players’.
“Somebody of Harry’s profile really did lift the place and he gave all the players an uplift ‘It’s Harry Redknapp talking to you’.
“And to be fair Steve Cotterill really knew his stuff at that time and him and Harry worked quite nicely together.
“There was a clear plan how we were going to play against Huddersfield. We had gone back to basics a bit, concentrating on being a bit more resolute and to be honest just Harry coming in gave everyone a new lease of life.
“Going into the game Che Adams had been terrific in training, Harry had just sort of lit up Che a little bit.
“You could see he had enjoyed training that week. He had a little spring in his step that Harry had given him.”
Even then Blues made it hard for themselves. The hordes watched on as Lukas Jutkiewicz missed an early penalty, before Adams was shown a nonsensical red card.
Thankfully Jonathan Grounds gave the ten men something to cling to in the 41st minute.
“There wasn’t really a stoppage in the game, it wasn’t until half time that we got in and started thinking about where we were and what we needed to do.
“We were lucky that we scored just before half time and gave us something to hang on to rather than have to come out and chase the game.
“I remember we came in at half time and there was lots of talking going on, lots of ‘We need to do this, we need to do that’.
“Steve was in there saying all sorts and shouting – and Harry just came in and told everyone to sit down, take a moment, relax and then we talked about the second half.
“He was really a calming influence on the team and we went out and comfortably won the game.”
Craig Gardner added a second half penalty and the full stadium was rewarded for answering the call to arms – and Morrison was paid back for also coming to his team’s aid.
“A lot of the time from February to March I was at home in bed unable to get up.
“I’d had injections before playing under Gary then going into Gianfranco with training changing – I could have done with Gary keeping the job so he could have managed me a bit better.
“But when you have a new manager it’s impossible, they want to see you training everyday – especially as captain.
“You don’t want to be not playing, it can look bad on you with how controversial the change had been as well, I tried to train through it but couldn’t.
“It was really hard watching the team in that period of time, I wanted to be back – the plan was not to be back at all that season after the operation didn’t go well. I had a lot of problems I couldn’t get rid of - that was a bad time for me personally.
“It came to it that I did need to play – the Huddersfield game was that real turning point.”
A turning point for Redknapp – who was convinced to stay on permanently, for better or worse, a turning point for Blues who completed the salvage operation at Ashton Gate.
“It didn’t work out for Harry in the long run – but he was crucial in that period.
“As for the fans, other clubs' would not have done that but they dragged us through it.
"I’d give them a couple of assists – if Groundsy scored someone must have helped him.” Someone, or 27,000 someones.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--'Worrying' traffic levels on roads at highest level since lockdown

Traffic levels on UK roads on Monday were at the highest level since the coronavirus lockdown was introduced , new figures show .
Data published by the Government shows that the number of vehicles was 56 % lower than in early February , but up three percentage points compared with the previous Monday .
Public Health England medical director Dr Yvonne Doyle described the rise as `` slightly worrying '' .
She said : `` There has been an uptick in motor vehicles , and the message here really is that we are still passing through this peak .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest working day use since March 23 .
`` We really have to be vigilant .
Most people are making huge efforts to stay at home and save lives .
`` This is slightly worrying , so please do stay at home , protect the NHS , save lives .
Go out for the necessities . ''
Use of trains and buses remains flat , at more than 95 % below the first week of February .
The worrying trend follows complaints over the weekend about the number of people travelling on roads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ posted of a stream of cars parked on the roadside near to Cannock Chase , despite calls on people not to visit the beauty spot .
A convoy of vehicles travelling to Snowdonia from London was also stopped at the weekend .
And police fined a Wolverhampton angler who travelled 110 miles for a fishing trip to Cambridgeshire on Saturday , April 25 .
RAC Insurance spokesman Simon Williams said : `` Analysis of hundreds of thousands of RAC Insurance black box trips confirms the number of vehicles on the UK 's roads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still very much in force , it remains the case that none of us should be driving unless it 's for an essential trip .
`` The fact we are now several weeks into the lockdown must not be used as an excuse to change our behaviour and venture out unnecessarily - our data seems to suggest some people may be finding more reasons to be on the road than earlier in April . ''

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Traffic levels on UK roads on Monday were at the highest level since the coronavirus lockdown was introduced, new figures show.
Data published by the Government shows that the number of vehicles was 56% lower than in early February, but up three percentage points compared with the previous Monday.
Public Health England medical director Dr Yvonne Doyle described the rise as "slightly worrying".
She said: "There has been an uptick in motor vehicles, and the message here really is that we are still passing through this peak.
"This use of motor vehicles is the highest working day use since March 23.
"We really have to be vigilant. Most people are making huge efforts to stay at home and save lives.
"This is slightly worrying, so please do stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives. Go out for the necessities."
Use of trains and buses remains flat, at more than 95% below the first week of February.
The worrying trend follows complaints over the weekend about the number of people travelling on roads.
In Staffordshire, a video was posted of a stream of cars parked on the roadside near to Cannock Chase, despite calls on people not to visit the beauty spot.
A convoy of vehicles travelling to Snowdonia from London was also stopped at the weekend. And police fined a Wolverhampton angler who travelled 110 miles for a fishing trip to Cambridgeshire on Saturday, April 25.
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RAC Insurance spokesman Simon Williams said: "Analysis of hundreds of thousands of RAC Insurance black box trips confirms the number of vehicles on the UK's roads is rising.
"With the lockdown still very much in force, it remains the case that none of us should be driving unless it's for an essential trip.
"The fact we are now several weeks into the lockdown must not be used as an excuse to change our behaviour and venture out unnecessarily - our data seems to suggest some people may be finding more reasons to be on the road than earlier in April."


birminghammail--2020-04-29--JustGiving appeal launched for murder victim Karl Gallagher

Donations are flooding in to help pay for the funeral of a much-loved dad who was fatally stabbed in Smethwick .
Karl Gallagher was tragically killed on Sunday ( April 26 ) after being knifed in the chest outside West Cross Shopping Centre .
Despite the best efforts of medics , the 31-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene .
A JustGiving page has now been set up by Karl 's brother , Ashley Gallagher , in response to requests from well-wishers wanting to make a donation towards funeral costs .
Within a matter of hours , more than £1,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ target .
Donations can be made by clicking here .
In a heartfelt message posted on the page , Ashley said : `` This is n't something I had thought about doing but I have had many requests from people asking where they can donate towards Karl 's funeral ( something which I had never thought about due to him being 31 with his whole life ahead of him ) .
`` Karl was a magnet in the family constantly drawing everyone together .
He was loving , caring and protective .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ starting from his own , right through the family .
`` After the lockdown he was going to push his business , which would have been a success because when he is passionate about something he puts his all into it .
Very determined .
I am truly glad that I had the pleasure of having him in my life like I am sure many of you are .
`` He has influenced a lot of people and he lives on in all of us that he has known . ''
Referencing horrifying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which were widely shared on social media , Ashely continued : `` As you can imagine this is a very difficult time for his family , he was taken away from us too soon and in such a callous way , which was shared across social media for viewing to add to the pain .
`` You may not hear from us but we appreciate everything you are saying and any donations will go to Karl 's funeral .
This will also allow for us to take him to Italy , to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to visit .
Only then will he be at peace .
`` Thank you in advance for any donations . ''
Supporters have left a number of tributes on the page .
One read : `` RIP Karl .
Can ’ t imagine how the future will be without you now . ''
`` We feel very sad for the whole family , '' said another .
`` Karl was taken away before his time .
Sending our love and condolence to you all . ''
A third wrote : `` Still cant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
Truly grateful to have had you as a friend in life , got some good memories . ''
So far , eight arrests have been made by detectives investigating Karl 's murder .
Four men – aged 19 , 20 and 21 – were detained on suspicion of murder and remained in police custody today ( Wednesday , April 29 ) .
Three others , aged 20 , 21 and 22 , held on suspicion of assisting an offender , and a fourth , aged 24 and arrested on suspicion of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigation .
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight .

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Donations are flooding in to help pay for the funeral of a much-loved dad who was fatally stabbed in Smethwick.
Karl Gallagher was tragically killed on Sunday (April 26) after being knifed in the chest outside West Cross Shopping Centre.
Despite the best efforts of medics, the 31-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.
A JustGiving page has now been set up by Karl's brother, Ashley Gallagher, in response to requests from well-wishers wanting to make a donation towards funeral costs.
Within a matter of hours, more than £1,000 had been raised - surpassing the £500 target. Donations can be made by clicking here.
In a heartfelt message posted on the page, Ashley said: "This isn't something I had thought about doing but I have had many requests from people asking where they can donate towards Karl's funeral (something which I had never thought about due to him being 31 with his whole life ahead of him).
"Karl was a magnet in the family constantly drawing everyone together. He was loving, caring and protective. He loved the kids in his life, starting from his own, right through the family.
"After the lockdown he was going to push his business, which would have been a success because when he is passionate about something he puts his all into it. Very determined. I am truly glad that I had the pleasure of having him in my life like I am sure many of you are.
"He has influenced a lot of people and he lives on in all of us that he has known."
Referencing horrifying videos of Karl's final moments, which were widely shared on social media, Ashely continued: "As you can imagine this is a very difficult time for his family, he was taken away from us too soon and in such a callous way, which was shared across social media for viewing to add to the pain.
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"You may not hear from us but we appreciate everything you are saying and any donations will go to Karl's funeral. This will also allow for us to take him to Italy, to be in a place he has always wanted to visit. Only then will he be at peace.
"Thank you in advance for any donations."
Supporters have left a number of tributes on the page.
One read: "RIP Karl. Can’t imagine how the future will be without you now."
"We feel very sad for the whole family," said another. "Karl was taken away before his time. Sending our love and condolence to you all."
A third wrote: "Still cant believe it, you didn't deserve it. Truly grateful to have had you as a friend in life, got some good memories."
So far, eight arrests have been made by detectives investigating Karl's murder.
Four men – aged 19, 20 and 21 – were detained on suspicion of murder and remained in police custody today (Wednesday, April 29).
Three others, aged 20, 21 and 22, held on suspicion of assisting an offender, and a fourth, aged 24 and arrested on suspicion of obstructing police, have been released under investigation.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight.
Alternatively, call 101 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Pundit tips West Brom to sign two Aston Villa players in shock deal

Kevin Phillips thinks West Bromwich Albion should move for Aston Villa duo John McGinn and Tyrone Mings in the next transfer window .
Slaven Bilic 's side are on course for promotion to the Premier League if the season restarts while Villa are battling to avoid dropping out of the top-flight .
McGinn joined Villa for a bargain £2.75m from Scottish Premiership side Hibernian two years ago and the all-action midfielder made the step up to top level with ease having played a vital role in promotion last season .
Mings has also proved himself in the Premier League having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a permanent stay last summer , the centre-back making his England debut in October .
Phillips , who played for both clubs as well as Birmingham City , thinks Albion would be wise to look at the Villa pair if they go up .
“ I know John McGinn has been linked with bigger clubs and he ’ s certainly a player that excites us .
He can be a potential one although West Brom would be fighting with other clubs for him , ” the former striker told West Brom News .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transfer fee would be considering he ’ s been out for a lot of the season so they might get something there .
“ I ’ ve said all along that when you go up , you need a good centre-forward and good centre-halves down the spine of the team to survive .
“ When I look at the Villa team , would Tyrone Mings be a player that West Brom would look at ?
He speaks very highly of the area and wouldn ’ t have to move so maybe that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has been linked with Newcastle United recently , made 20 appearances this season before fracturing his ankle in December while Mings has played 23 times .

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Kevin Phillips thinks West Bromwich Albion should move for Aston Villa duo John McGinn and Tyrone Mings in the next transfer window.
Slaven Bilic's side are on course for promotion to the Premier League if the season restarts while Villa are battling to avoid dropping out of the top-flight.
McGinn joined Villa for a bargain £2.75m from Scottish Premiership side Hibernian two years ago and the all-action midfielder made the step up to top level with ease having played a vital role in promotion last season.
Mings has also proved himself in the Premier League having had his loan from Bournemouth made into a permanent stay last summer, the centre-back making his England debut in October.
Phillips, who played for both clubs as well as Birmingham City, thinks Albion would be wise to look at the Villa pair if they go up.
“I know John McGinn has been linked with bigger clubs and he’s certainly a player that excites us. He can be a potential one although West Brom would be fighting with other clubs for him,” the former striker told West Brom News.
“I’m not sure what the transfer fee would be considering he’s been out for a lot of the season so they might get something there.
“I’ve said all along that when you go up, you need a good centre-forward and good centre-halves down the spine of the team to survive.
“When I look at the Villa team, would Tyrone Mings be a player that West Brom would look at? He speaks very highly of the area and wouldn’t have to move so maybe that could be an option.”
McGinn, who has been linked with Newcastle United recently, made 20 appearances this season before fracturing his ankle in December while Mings has played 23 times.


birminghammail--2020-04-29--Why we still don't know exactly how many people are dying in covid-19 crisis

We wo n't know the true death toll from the covid-19 crisis for some time , a senior government scientist has revealed .
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference , Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England Prof Jonathan Van-Tam said every country in the world would have to wait before they knew how many people had died .
He made the comments after new figures showed more than 26,000 people with confirmed coronavirus have died in hospitals , care homes and elsewhere in the UK .
A total of 26,097 people have died in hospitals , care homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after contracting Covid-19 , Public Health England said .
It includes 765 deaths reported in the 24 hours to 5pm on Tuesday .
It is the first time data on the number of deaths in care homes and the wider community has been included in the Government ’ s daily updates .
The new method of reporting includes an additional 3,811 deaths since the start of the outbreak .
Prof Van-Tam said the Government would eventually be able to calculate the true number of deaths by comparing the total death rate while the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate over the same months in previous years .
He said : `` We will be able to compute a different estimate of deaths , called excess deaths .
`` And that is really accepting that across the year , deaths go up in the winter and down in the summer in a broadly oscillating wave .
`` And one could work out what the average is over multiple years and then work out what in this particular coronavirus pandemic our departure has been from that , in terms of total number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us an excess death figure . ''
He added : `` In time we 'll have a much better answer when we start to look at excess mortality as a total , which will take into account both deaths related to covid 19 and deaths that may have occured not due to covid 19 at all , but as a consequence of the crisis .
`` And some of those will take time to come through .
`` And I 'm afraid that is a phenomen we will face right cross the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in . ''
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab acknowledged there had been a “ distribution issue ” in getting tests for care home staff and residents .
He said : “ We have expanded the eligibility , eligibility now includes anyone in a care home whether resident or staff .
“ We have obviously had a distribution issue , there is no sugar coating the challenge we have had with that.
” But the Government was now doing “ everything we possibly can ” to improve supply and delivery .

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We won't know the true death toll from the covid-19 crisis for some time, a senior government scientist has revealed.
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England Prof Jonathan Van-Tam said every country in the world would have to wait before they knew how many people had died.
He made the comments after new figures showed more than 26,000 people with confirmed coronavirus have died in hospitals, care homes and elsewhere in the UK.
A total of 26,097 people have died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community in the UK after contracting Covid-19, Public Health England said.
It includes 765 deaths reported in the 24 hours to 5pm on Tuesday.
It is the first time data on the number of deaths in care homes and the wider community has been included in the Government’s daily updates.
The new method of reporting includes an additional 3,811 deaths since the start of the outbreak.
Prof Van-Tam said the Government would eventually be able to calculate the true number of deaths by comparing the total death rate while the crisis takes place to the average death rate over the same months in previous years.
He said: "We will be able to compute a different estimate of deaths, called excess deaths.
"And that is really accepting that across the year, deaths go up in the winter and down in the summer in a broadly oscillating wave.
"And one could work out what the average is over multiple years and then work out what in this particular coronavirus pandemic our departure has been from that, in terms of total number of deaths.
"And that will give us an excess death figure."
He added: "In time we'll have a much better answer when we start to look at excess mortality as a total, which will take into account both deaths related to covid 19 and deaths that may have occured not due to covid 19 at all, but as a consequence of the crisis.
"And some of those will take time to come through.
"And I'm afraid that is a phenomen we will face right cross the world with this awful crisis that we are in."
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab acknowledged there had been a “distribution issue” in getting tests for care home staff and residents.
He said: “We have expanded the eligibility, eligibility now includes anyone in a care home whether resident or staff.
“We have obviously had a distribution issue, there is no sugar coating the challenge we have had with that.”
But the Government was now doing “everything we possibly can” to improve supply and delivery.


birminghammail--2020-04-30--1,800 workers lose jobs at Oasis and Warehouse

More than 1,800 workers are set to lose their jobs at Oasis and Warehouse and two other brands , after administrators said they were unable to find a buyer for the business .
Deloitte said that all stores will close indefinitely and online sales will be stopped .
The failure to save any part of Oasis Warehouse Limited , the company behind the two brands , along with The Idle Man and Bastyan Fashions , will result in the loss of 1,803 jobs .
Deloitte said it had sold the intellectual property and the company 's stock to restructuring expert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to buy the rest of the business .
Administrator Rob Harding said : `` Covid-19 has presented extraordinary challenges which have devastated the retail industry .
It is with great sadness that we have to announce a sale of the business has not been possible and that we are announcing so many redundancies today . ''
He added : `` This is a very difficult time for the group 's employees and other key stakeholders and we will do everything we can to support them through this .
`` We would like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key stakeholders in the group for their continued support . ''

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More than 1,800 workers are set to lose their jobs at Oasis and Warehouse and two other brands, after administrators said they were unable to find a buyer for the business.
Deloitte said that all stores will close indefinitely and online sales will be stopped.
The failure to save any part of Oasis Warehouse Limited, the company behind the two brands, along with The Idle Man and Bastyan Fashions, will result in the loss of 1,803 jobs.
Deloitte said it had sold the intellectual property and the company's stock to restructuring expert Hilco Capital, but Hilco had decided not to buy the rest of the business.
Administrator Rob Harding said: "Covid-19 has presented extraordinary challenges which have devastated the retail industry. It is with great sadness that we have to announce a sale of the business has not been possible and that we are announcing so many redundancies today."
He added: "This is a very difficult time for the group's employees and other key stakeholders and we will do everything we can to support them through this.
"We would like to thank all the employees and other key stakeholders in the group for their continued support."


birminghammail--2020-04-30--Mosques lie eerily empty as coffins arrive for coronavirus victims

Mosques around the country lie eerily empty as coffins pile up waiting to be used for coronavirus victims - when they would usually be full of Ramadan worshippers .
The faith centres have been forced to turn away those wishing to celebrate the holiest month of the Muslim calendar due to lockdown regulations .
Eerie photographs from one mosque in Birmingham shows coffins being stockpiled in preparation to be used as it noticed a sharp rise in the number of funerals in recent months .
The holy month of Ramadan , which started on Thursday , is a special time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world .
It is a time of communal prayer , daytime fasting , night-time feasting , extensive socialising and acts of profound generosity and charity .
But due to lockdown regulations , congregational acts of worship outside people 's houses and iftars - the ritual meal marking the breaking of fasts - will not happen .
The Muslim Council of Britain issued guidance on how to safely celebrate Ramadan during lockdown .
It included streaming Islamic lectures or Tarawih prayers , taking part in iftar at home and using video calls to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It also issued advice to workers - particularly those in health care - to hydrate well ahead long working days and eat high energy , slow burning foods to remain energised throughout the workday .
The Green Lane Masjid mosque in Birmingham , West Mids.
, took the unprecedented step of closing its doors last month to congregations .
Kamran Hussain , a committee member at the mosque , said : `` The typical activities of opening the fasts together with family and friends , the nightly congregational prayer , the seclusion in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last 10 days , will all be implausible given the current situation .
`` There is usually a real sense of community over this period that is felt by everyone coming together to eat , pray and worship each day . ''
Mr Hussain said the mosque usually feed around 300 people every day during Ramadan and would have 60 people stay over each night .
And more than 60,000 were expected at the annual Eid celebrations at the end of Ramadan in Small Heath park .
But now the mosque is focusing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burial rates jumping from around five per month to 25 per month since the pandemic started .
He added : `` At the mosque we have already closed the doors and are now focused on dealing with the increased funeral services and burials , through our Funeral Service .
`` We have paired up with Central Mosque Funeral Services in order to cope with the high demand .
`` Additionally , we have launched a Covid-19 Support service to arrange food shopping and deliveries for the vulnerable .
`` Many of our welfare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the phone .
`` And our foodbank is now busier than ever .
`` We have launched a listening service for those who may feel isolated and need to talk to someone .
`` We are also about to launch a service with Macmillan to see if we can support any cancer patients.
`` In Sheffield , the Jamia Ghausia Mosque delivered its traditional Ramadan prayers on Friday night with worshippers listening on radios supplied by the mosque .
Imam Hafiz Hazoor Bakhsh delivered Tarawih prayers on Friday ( 24/4 ) which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ began the holy month of Ramadan .
Whaid Nazir , a committee member at the mosque , said the service - which the mosque intends to keep up throughout the month - provides a `` lifeline '' to worshippers .
The 500 or so worshippers at the mosque will take part in prayers remotely for the first time since it opened more than 30 years ago .
Mr Nazir , 51 , said : `` This is the first time anything like this has ever happened .
`` I have been coming here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have never , ever seen anything like this , it is unprecedented .
`` The imam has to come in on his own to keep the spirit of the mosque going and he delivers prayers that are broadcast on a radio system .
`` The broadcasts are a lifeline for the people that can not come to the mosque . ''
Mr Nazir said worshipers at the mosque had to re-evaluate their plans to break their fasts after sunset - with people often gathering to eat together .
He added : `` People @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during Ramadan , it 's a very special time of the year for our faith .
`` Friday prayers are the busiest time of the week most weeks - Ramadan is like Friday prayers every day for a month .
`` Usually , they would congregate in the evening to break their fasts together .
`` That 's a big thing for people , often one person might cook or pay for a meal for 200 people .
It 's a communal event .
`` People ca n't come together and eat together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year and stay at home . ''
Mr Nazir said the mosque was looking to the possibility of streaming prayers online throughout the month .
He added : `` These things happen and we have to work around it .
`` It 's something new , but we are looking into the possibility of expanding it so more people can experience prayers .
`` We are looking to do stream them live on YouTube or Zoom if we can get the equipment together . ''

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Mosques around the country lie eerily empty as coffins pile up waiting to be used for coronavirus victims - when they would usually be full of Ramadan worshippers.
The faith centres have been forced to turn away those wishing to celebrate the holiest month of the Muslim calendar due to lockdown regulations.
Eerie photographs from one mosque in Birmingham shows coffins being stockpiled in preparation to be used as it noticed a sharp rise in the number of funerals in recent months.
The holy month of Ramadan, which started on Thursday, is a special time for nearly two billion Muslims all over the world.
(Image: Adam Hughes / SWNS)
It is a time of communal prayer, daytime fasting, night-time feasting, extensive socialising and acts of profound generosity and charity.
But due to lockdown regulations, congregational acts of worship outside people's houses and iftars - the ritual meal marking the breaking of fasts - will not happen.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
The Muslim Council of Britain issued guidance on how to safely celebrate Ramadan during lockdown.
It included streaming Islamic lectures or Tarawih prayers, taking part in iftar at home and using video calls to replicate feasting with friends and family.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
It also issued advice to workers - particularly those in health care - to hydrate well ahead long working days and eat high energy, slow burning foods to remain energised throughout the workday.
The Green Lane Masjid mosque in Birmingham, West Mids., took the unprecedented step of closing its doors last month to congregations.
Kamran Hussain, CEO at the mosque, said: "The typical activities of opening the fasts together with family and friends, the nightly congregational prayer, the seclusion in the mosque for some people in the last 10 days, will all be implausible given the current situation.
"There is usually a real sense of community over this period that is felt by everyone coming together to eat, pray and worship each day."
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
Mr Hussain said the mosque usually feed around 300 people every day during Ramadan and would have 60 people stay over each night.
And more than 60,000 were expected at the annual Eid celebrations at the end of Ramadan in Small Heath park.
But now the mosque is focusing on its increased funeral service, with burial rates jumping from around five per month to 25 per month since the pandemic started.
(Image: Adam Hughes / SWNS)
He added: "At the mosque we have already closed the doors and are now focused on dealing with the increased funeral services and burials, through our Funeral Service.
"We have paired up with Central Mosque Funeral Services in order to cope with the high demand.
"Additionally, we have launched a Covid-19 Support service to arrange food shopping and deliveries for the vulnerable.
"Many of our welfare clinics and surgeries are now taking place over the phone.
"And our foodbank is now busier than ever.
"We have launched a listening service for those who may feel isolated and need to talk to someone.
"We are also about to launch a service with Macmillan to see if we can support any cancer patients. "
In Sheffield, the Jamia Ghausia Mosque delivered its traditional Ramadan prayers on Friday night with worshippers listening on radios supplied by the mosque.
Imam Hafiz Hazoor Bakhsh delivered Tarawih prayers on Friday (24/4) which Muslims could read at home as they began the holy month of Ramadan.
Whaid Nazir, a committee member at the mosque, said the service - which the mosque intends to keep up throughout the month - provides a "lifeline" to worshippers.
The 500 or so worshippers at the mosque will take part in prayers remotely for the first time since it opened more than 30 years ago.
Mr Nazir, 51, said: "This is the first time anything like this has ever happened.
"I have been coming here since I was a child, I have never, ever seen anything like this, it is unprecedented.
"The imam has to come in on his own to keep the spirit of the mosque going and he delivers prayers that are broadcast on a radio system.
"The broadcasts are a lifeline for the people that cannot come to the mosque."
Mr Nazir said worshipers at the mosque had to re-evaluate their plans to break their fasts after sunset - with people often gathering to eat together.
He added: "People come to the mosque more than usual during Ramadan, it's a very special time of the year for our faith.
"Friday prayers are the busiest time of the week most weeks - Ramadan is like Friday prayers every day for a month.
"Usually, they would congregate in the evening to break their fasts together.
"That's a big thing for people, often one person might cook or pay for a meal for 200 people. It's a communal event.
"People can't come together and eat together, they have to plan it differently this year and stay at home."
Mr Nazir said the mosque was looking to the possibility of streaming prayers online throughout the month.
He added: "These things happen and we have to work around it.
"It's something new, but we are looking into the possibility of expanding it so more people can experience prayers.
"We are looking to do stream them live on YouTube or Zoom if we can get the equipment together."