birminghammail--2020-02-03--TV licence set to rise from April 2020 - here's how much you'll pay

The cost of the annual television licence fee will increase from £154.50 to £157.50 from April 1 , the BBC has said .
The fee is set by the Government , which announced in 2016 that it would rise in line with inflation for five years from April 2017 .
The new cost equates to £3.02 per week - or £13.13 per month , according to the broadcaster .
The price change will not currently have an impact on the free over-75s TV licence .
Changes to the current system , which sees elderly viewers in the age bracket get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set to come in until June .
The cost of a black and white licence will rise from £52 to £53 .
Last week , Match Of The Day host Gary Lineker said that buying a TV licence should not be compulsory .
He said that if you made purchasing the licence optional , `` you would lose some people , but at the same time you 'd up the price a bit '' .
`` ( The licence fee ) is the price of a cup of coffee a week at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you could help older people , or those that ca n't afford it , '' Lineker added .
Outgoing Director-General of the BBC Lord Tony Hall defended the licence fee model , saying last month that the licence fee `` guarantees ... commitment to creativity and risk-taking '' .
He added that `` because we are funded by everyone , we must offer something outstanding for everyone '' .
Culture Secretary Baroness Morgan said in January that decriminalising the non-payment of the licence fee would require legislation and `` lots of consultation '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe it 's right to look again at whether criminal sanctions remain appropriate for TV licence evasion , given ongoing concerns about whether the criminal sanction is unfair and disproportionate . ''
The price increase follows a raft of cuts announced last week to Newsnight , 5Live and other news output as part of a drive to save money .
The BBC 's plans to `` modernise its newsroom '' will make savings of around £80 million and lead to around 450 job cuts , the broadcaster said .
In December , Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' abolishing the licence fee .
The Prime Minister questioned whether the funding format for public service broadcasters `` still makes sense '' , adding : `` I think that the system of funding by what is effectively a general tax , is n't it , everybody has a TV , it bears reflection - let me put it that way . ''
The price rise was criticised by charity Age UK , which said the increase would be a further knock to elderly viewers affected by the change in the licence fee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Age UK 's charity director , said : `` A £3 a year increase to the TV licence fee may not sound much but will be yet another blow to the hundreds of thousands of over-75s who will struggle to afford a TV licence from June . ''
In June last year while announcing the changes to the licence fee system for over-75s , Lord Hall said that he knows for some the TV licence is `` a lot of money '' .
He added : `` I believe we have reached the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different arguments .
`` It would not be right simply to abolish all free licences .
`` Equally it would not be right to maintain it in perpetuity given the very profound impact that would have on many BBC services . ''
Lord Hall announced at the end of January that he would be standing down as the BBC 's Director-General .

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The cost of the annual television licence fee will increase from £154.50 to £157.50 from April 1, the BBC has said.
The fee is set by the Government, which announced in 2016 that it would rise in line with inflation for five years from April 2017.
The new cost equates to £3.02 per week - or £13.13 per month, according to the broadcaster.
The price change will not currently have an impact on the free over-75s TV licence.
Changes to the current system, which sees elderly viewers in the age bracket get a licence for free, are not set to come in until June.
The cost of a black and white licence will rise from £52 to £53.
Last week, Match Of The Day host Gary Lineker said that buying a TV licence should not be compulsory.
He said that if you made purchasing the licence optional, "you would lose some people, but at the same time you'd up the price a bit".
"(The licence fee) is the price of a cup of coffee a week at the moment. If you put it up you could help older people, or those that can't afford it," Lineker added.
Outgoing Director-General of the BBC Lord Tony Hall defended the licence fee model, saying last month that the licence fee "guarantees ... commitment to creativity and risk-taking".
He added that "because we are funded by everyone, we must offer something outstanding for everyone".
Culture Secretary Baroness Morgan said in January that decriminalising the non-payment of the licence fee would require legislation and "lots of consultation".
She added: "We do believe it's right to look again at whether criminal sanctions remain appropriate for TV licence evasion, given ongoing concerns about whether the criminal sanction is unfair and disproportionate."
The price increase follows a raft of cuts announced last week to Newsnight, 5Live and other news output as part of a drive to save money.
The BBC's plans to "modernise its newsroom" will make savings of around £80 million and lead to around 450 job cuts, the broadcaster said.
In December, Boris Johnson said he is "looking at" abolishing the licence fee.
The Prime Minister questioned whether the funding format for public service broadcasters "still makes sense", adding: "I think that the system of funding by what is effectively a general tax, isn't it, everybody has a TV, it bears reflection - let me put it that way."
The price rise was criticised by charity Age UK, which said the increase would be a further knock to elderly viewers affected by the change in the licence fee system for over-75s.
Caroline Abrahams, Age UK's charity director, said: "A £3 a year increase to the TV licence fee may not sound much but will be yet another blow to the hundreds of thousands of over-75s who will struggle to afford a TV licence from June."
In June last year while announcing the changes to the licence fee system for over-75s, Lord Hall said that he knows for some the TV licence is "a lot of money".
He added: "I believe we have reached the fairest judgment after weighing up all the different arguments.
"It would not be right simply to abolish all free licences.
"Equally it would not be right to maintain it in perpetuity given the very profound impact that would have on many BBC services."
Lord Hall announced at the end of January that he would be standing down as the BBC's Director-General.


birminghammail--2020-02-03--Citigroup banker Paras Shah suspended over 'stealing food from staff canteen'

A high-flying Citigroup trader has been suspended from the bank following accusations he stole from the staff canteen .
Paras Shah , 31 , had allegedly taken food from the company 's European headquarters in London 's Canary Wharf , according to the Financial Times .
The bank suspended him following the allegations , sources told the newspaper .
Mr Shah was earlier reported to have left the bank this month .
Reuters said that he had left after a tough year .
It comes just over two years since he joined the bank from HSBC .
He was promoted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Africa high yield credit trading after only two months , according to a LinkedIn profile .
Mr Shah did not respond when the PA news agency contacted him on LinkedIn .
Citigroup declined to comment .
The average salary for a credit trader is £183,740 , according to employee review website Glassdoor .
However , because of Mr Shah 's senior position at Citi , he is likely to be on a far higher salary .
One banking source told PA a similar position at other banks could command a salary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Educated in economics the University of Bath , Mr Shah 's job involved trading junk bonds - risky company debt - from London .
He first joined HSBC in 2009 , first as a summer analyst while he was still at university , according to his LinkedIn profile .
In 2014 Jonathan Burrows , a managing director at BlackRock Asset Management Investor Services , was banned from taking senior roles in the British financial sector after he was found to have repeatedly skipped paying for his train ride .
He settled the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had failed to pay full price for tickets from his home in East Sussex for several years .
It earned him the title of the `` biggest fare dodger in history '' in the press .

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A high-flying Citigroup trader has been suspended from the bank following accusations he stole from the staff canteen.
Paras Shah, 31, had allegedly taken food from the company's European headquarters in London's Canary Wharf, according to the Financial Times.
The bank suspended him following the allegations, sources told the newspaper.
Mr Shah was earlier reported to have left the bank this month. Reuters said that he had left after a tough year.
It comes just over two years since he joined the bank from HSBC. He was promoted to head of Europe, Middle East and Africa high yield credit trading after only two months, according to a LinkedIn profile.
Mr Shah did not respond when the PA news agency contacted him on LinkedIn. Citigroup declined to comment.
The average salary for a credit trader is £183,740, according to employee review website Glassdoor. However, because of Mr Shah's senior position at Citi, he is likely to be on a far higher salary.
One banking source told PA a similar position at other banks could command a salary of more than £1 million a year.
Educated in economics the University of Bath, Mr Shah's job involved trading junk bonds - risky company debt - from London.
He first joined HSBC in 2009, first as a summer analyst while he was still at university, according to his LinkedIn profile.
In 2014 Jonathan Burrows, a managing director at BlackRock Asset Management Investor Services, was banned from taking senior roles in the British financial sector after he was found to have repeatedly skipped paying for his train ride.
He settled the case for £43,000, after investigators found that he had failed to pay full price for tickets from his home in East Sussex for several years. It earned him the title of the "biggest fare dodger in history" in the press.


birminghammail--2020-02-03--Top Gear is changing channels in 2020 in huge shake-up

Top Gear is set to switch channels from BBC Two to BBC One .
The move has not been finalised @ @ @ @ @ of the popular motoring show is expected to air on BBC One later this year @ @ @ @ @ reported the move , said talks about a new home for the show were held @ @ @ @ @ strong performance among young and under-served audiences .
The news comes a year after the @ @ @ @ @ Freddie '' Flintoff , Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris .
The trio took the wheel @ @ @ @ @ 2018 that he was stepping down as host , citing the demands of the role @ @ @ @ @ him away from his family and friends .
Their first episode was watched by a @ @ @ @ @ , the highest viewing figures for a launch episode since 2016 .
The move will @ @ @ @ @ Top Gear has aired on BBC One since the programme was revived in 2002 .

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Top Gear is set to switch channels from BBC Two to BBC One.
The move has not been finalised, but the next series of the popular motoring show is expected to air on BBC One later this year.
Deadline, which first reported the move, said talks about a new home for the show were held last month, following its strong performance among young and under-served audiences.
The news comes a year after the arrival of presenters Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff, Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris.
The trio took the wheel after Matt LeBlanc announced in 2018 that he was stepping down as host, citing the demands of the role and how much it kept him away from his family and friends.
Their first episode was watched by a TV audience of 4.1 million, the highest viewing figures for a launch episode since 2016.
The move will mark the first time that Top Gear has aired on BBC One since the programme was revived in 2002.


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Watch as van nearly hits lorry while swinging across two banned areas of M6 carriageway

This is the jaw-dropping moment a bungling van driver is caught flouting the Highway Code on the M6 – after swinging across lanes to avoid to take the toll .
The unbelievable footage , which has been viewed more than hundreds of times , shows the motor slicing across two lanes of busy traffic of the southbound carriageway – almost careering into a lorry .
The dashcam driver said the manoeuvre was captured at junction 11a just before 1pm on Thursday , January 30 .
According to the Highway Code , areas of white diagonal stripes - or chevrons - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traffic lanes or to protect traffic turning right .
If the area is marked with chevrons and bordered by solid white lines you MUST NOT enter it , except in an emergency .
Viewers online reacted with anger to the widely-shared footage , which was entitled ‘ Think he changed his mind and wanted the Toll ’ .
“ What an idiot , ” said one .
“ It is amazing that people think this kind of thing is acceptable – it could have caused an accident.
” While another added : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the driver just did that .
He is either desperate or very silly .
”

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This is the jaw-dropping moment a bungling van driver is caught flouting the Highway Code on the M6 – after swinging across lanes to avoid to take the toll.
The unbelievable footage, which has been viewed more than hundreds of times, shows the motor slicing across two lanes of busy traffic of the southbound carriageway – almost careering into a lorry.
The dashcam driver said the manoeuvre was captured at junction 11a just before 1pm on Thursday, January 30.
According to the Highway Code, areas of white diagonal stripes - or chevrons - painted on the road are to separate traffic lanes or to protect traffic turning right.
If the area is marked with chevrons and bordered by solid white lines you MUST NOT enter it, except in an emergency.
Viewers online reacted with anger to the widely-shared footage, which was entitled ‘Think he changed his mind and wanted the Toll’.
“What an idiot,” said one. “It is amazing that people think this kind of thing is acceptable – it could have caused an accident.”
While another added: “Wow. I can’t believe the driver just did that. He is either desperate or very silly.”


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Heartbreaking final Facebook post of young mum who died days after developing mystery bruises

The heartbreaking final Facebook post of a young mum who tragically died having developed mysterious bruises days earlier has been revealed .
Sarah Armstrong , 22 , went to a doctor after suffering with bruises and , within just a week , she had tragically passed away .
She developed 'flu-like ' symptoms so booked an appointment with her GP but within days , she suffered a stroke and died from acute myeloid leukemia - after spending the previous night 'laughing ' with a friend .
Sarah was diagnosed with a cancer of the myeloid line of blood cells , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment on January 29 .
Sarah , who was described as `` strong and positive '' posted an emotional message on Facebook to raise awareness of the disease .
She also said how she was remaining positive and defiantly wrote : `` I know I will beat this '' .
Childhood friend Danielle Johnson , 22 , told the Liverpool Echo : `` No one can believe it , everyone is in bits and shocked .
`` Sarah was coming out in all these bruises and she had been telling me she could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I said you need to get an appointment and go to the doctors .
`` She went to the doctor and they said she would need to get a blood test .
On the same day they called her to say 'you need to go to A & E , you 're going to have to go now ' . ''
Danielle said Sarah was `` very positive and strong '' even though she faced the gruelling treatment .
She said : `` She was just full of life .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were sitting there laughing the night before she died .
She did everything for everyone .
`` She was always laughing and she always made everyone laugh .
She was an amazing mum , she just always put everyone first .
`` They started the chemotherapy and she was doing amazing .
She was always positive . ''
On February 1 , Danielle said she received a message from Sarah 's partner , Joel , who told her to call him right away .
Devastatingly the mum had suffered a stroke and sadly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her treatment .
Acute myeloid leukemia ( AML ) is a cancer of the myeloid line of blood cells , characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal cells that build up in the bone marrow and blood and interfere with normal blood cells .
Symptoms may include feeling tired , shortness of breath , easy bruising and bleeding , and increased risk of infection .
Occasionally , spread may occur to the brain , skin , or gums .
As an acute leukemia , AML progresses rapidly and is typically fatal within weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page was launched to raise money for Sarah 's funeral , her baby girl and loving boyfriend Joel .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Olivia Tobin, James Rodger)

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The heartbreaking final Facebook post of a young mum who tragically died having developed mysterious bruises days earlier has been revealed.
Sarah Armstrong, 22, went to a doctor after suffering with bruises and, within just a week, she had tragically passed away.
She developed 'flu-like' symptoms so booked an appointment with her GP but within days, she suffered a stroke and died from acute myeloid leukemia - after spending the previous night 'laughing' with a friend.
Sarah was diagnosed with a cancer of the myeloid line of blood cells, on January 24 and immediately started chemotherapy treatment on January 29.
She died on February 1.
Sarah, who was described as "strong and positive" posted an emotional message on Facebook to raise awareness of the disease.
She also said how she was remaining positive and defiantly wrote: "I know I will beat this".
(Image: Family of Sarah Armstrong)
Childhood friend Danielle Johnson, 22, told the Liverpool Echo: "No one can believe it, everyone is in bits and shocked.
"Sarah was coming out in all these bruises and she had been telling me she couldn't explain where they were coming from.
"I said you need to get an appointment and go to the doctors.
"She went to the doctor and they said she would need to get a blood test. On the same day they called her to say 'you need to go to A&E, you're going to have to go now'."
Danielle said Sarah was "very positive and strong" even though she faced the gruelling treatment.
She said: "She was just full of life. I just can't believe it, we were sitting there laughing the night before she died. She did everything for everyone.
"She was always laughing and she always made everyone laugh. She was an amazing mum, she just always put everyone first.
"They started the chemotherapy and she was doing amazing. She was always positive."
(Image: Danielle Johnson)
On February 1, Danielle said she received a message from Sarah's partner, Joel, who told her to call him right away.
Devastatingly the mum had suffered a stroke and sadly died that evening, just days into her treatment.
(Image: Danielle Johnson)
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the myeloid line of blood cells, characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal cells that build up in the bone marrow and blood and interfere with normal blood cells.
Symptoms may include feeling tired, shortness of breath, easy bruising and bleeding, and increased risk of infection.
Occasionally, spread may occur to the brain, skin, or gums.
As an acute leukemia, AML progresses rapidly and is typically fatal within weeks or months if left untreated
A GoFundMe page was launched to raise money for Sarah's funeral, her baby girl and loving boyfriend Joel.


birminghammail--2020-02-04--IKEA Coventry store closure blamed on 'lazy shoppers' with over 300 jobs at risk

The shock news IKEA is set to shut its iconic Coventry store has sparked reaction from consumer experts .
The retailer said 325 jobs will be affected , with a period of consultation due to take place .
The furniture giant cited the size of the store over seven levels and the shopping experience for customers as reasons behind the plans .
It said they had led to `` consistent losses '' .
IKEA ’ s Coventry store , one of 22 IKEA stores in the UK , was built in 2007 in the city centre and was one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing a new format to meet its customer ’ s changing needs and expectations .
Following the news that IKEA has announced plans to close its Coventry store this summer , George Charles , spokesperson for www.MoneySavingHeroes.co.uk commented : `` Despite remaining seemingly unaffected by the issues plaguing the high-street , IKEA has succumbed to its first big store closure .
`` Going to IKEA is often seen as a novel day out , but the attitude of the modern consumer is changing ; people want speed and convenience , and having to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deter people .
`` We are in a lazy era , where consumers want to be spoon fed and have everything ready on a plate for them , thus the appeal of online shopping . ''
He added : “ One would have to pose the question of whether this is Brexit related , because tariffs to import goods could increase , but the company has maintained its commitment to the UK , although time will tell on this one .
`` With 235 employees needing to be relocated , it does beg @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these people , because IKEAs are often so spread out so they could end up having to travel or move house , which I can imagine isn ’ t ideal .
`` However , the company ’ s efforts to ensure the workers are as least affected as possible by the closure are to be commended , as other businesses show a whole deal less compassion .
`` IKEA is normally seen as one of the juggernauts in the retail sector , and this is the first time it has shown a chink @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be interesting to see what the next few months/years hold for other IKEA stores .
”

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The shock news IKEA is set to shut its iconic Coventry store has sparked reaction from consumer experts.
The retailer said 325 jobs will be affected, with a period of consultation due to take place.
The furniture giant cited the size of the store over seven levels and the shopping experience for customers as reasons behind the plans.
It said they had led to "consistent losses".
IKEA’s Coventry store, one of 22 IKEA stores in the UK, was built in 2007 in the city centre and was one of the retailer’s earliest examples of testing a new format to meet its customer’s changing needs and expectations.
Following the news that IKEA has announced plans to close its Coventry store this summer, George Charles, spokesperson for www.MoneySavingHeroes.co.uk commented: "Despite remaining seemingly unaffected by the issues plaguing the high-street, IKEA has succumbed to its first big store closure.
"Going to IKEA is often seen as a novel day out, but the attitude of the modern consumer is changing; people want speed and convenience, and having to walk around a huge IKEA store can deter people.
"We are in a lazy era, where consumers want to be spoon fed and have everything ready on a plate for them, thus the appeal of online shopping."
He added: “One would have to pose the question of whether this is Brexit related, because tariffs to import goods could increase, but the company has maintained its commitment to the UK, although time will tell on this one.
"With 235 employees needing to be relocated, it does beg the question of how they will retain these people, because IKEAs are often so spread out so they could end up having to travel or move house, which I can imagine isn’t ideal.
"However, the company’s efforts to ensure the workers are as least affected as possible by the closure are to be commended, as other businesses show a whole deal less compassion.
"IKEA is normally seen as one of the juggernauts in the retail sector, and this is the first time it has shown a chink in its armour, so it will be interesting to see what the next few months/years hold for other IKEA stores.”


birminghammail--2020-02-04--West Brom have a call to make on key role as they continue to excel

West Brom ’ s under 23s took the derby bragging rights after a 1-0 success over Aston Villa at Bodymoor Heath - Nick Clayton-Phillips the match winner .
Albion drew first blood in the 12th minute ; George Harmon was sent flying down the left and although his centred cross wasn ’ t controlled by Jamie Soule , it ran to Clayton-Phillips on the far side , who took one touch before leathering the ball into the top corner .
Villa took the game to their visitors in the second half and made a number of openings - Jaden Philogene-Bidace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Albion , though , secured their fourth successive league win , five in all .
Here are the talking points .
Something to be proud of As the club ’ s head of academy recruitment , Steve Hopcroft , pointed out pre-match , nine of the 11 players who started here had been recruited by the club under the age of ten years old .
Only club stalwart Chris Brunt and Saul Shotton , who was brought in from Bury earlier this season , had not been produced and developed by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the work they do behind the scenes with the club ’ s prospects .
There ’ s real talent here , too ; we know all about Rekeem Harper , Jack Fitzwater and Rayhaan Tulloch from glimpses of them in the first team , but Josh Griffiths in goal is destined for big things and 17-year-old Harry Williams - playing his first match at U23 level - looked at home there .
Finn Azaz is a real presence , while George Harmon continues to impress at left-back .
Together as one There was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course .
Chris Brunt ’ s professionalism remains unrivalled ( not many senior stars would drag themselves out of their homes on a chilly Monday night when they weren ’ t obliged to , but Brunt loves pulling on the blue and white shirt and passing on his experience and knowledge to those coming through the ranks .
There was a first team presence in the stands here , too ; striker Kenneth Zohore arrived just ahead of kick off and took his place among the Villa and Albion fans who had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a refreshing sight , as was the fact that assistant boss Julian Dicks turned up too , though he might otherwise have been there in order to brief Bilic on the goings on .
Either way , there was a real sense of unity present .
At what point do Albion start seriously consider giving Deon Burton the job on a permanent basis , if they aren ’ t already ?
This was Albion ’ s fifth win in a row in all competitions , and their fourth in the Premier League 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United , with a game in hand , and 12 behind rampant and unbeaten West Ham .
Considering the upheaval that Michael Appleton ’ s exit might ’ ve caused when Lincoln City came calling earlier in the season , it ’ s been a particularly smooth transistion under Burton , who was already a familiar face to this young group of Baggies .
Along with Boaz Myhill , who was also barking out instructions here , they appear to be getting more than a tune out of Albion ’ s 23s .
@ @ @ @ @ @

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West Brom’s under 23s took the derby bragging rights after a 1-0 success over Aston Villa at Bodymoor Heath - Nick Clayton-Phillips the match winner.
Albion drew first blood in the 12th minute; George Harmon was sent flying down the left and although his centred cross wasn’t controlled by Jamie Soule, it ran to Clayton-Phillips on the far side, who took one touch before leathering the ball into the top corner.
Villa took the game to their visitors in the second half and made a number of openings - Jaden Philogene-Bidace and Cameron Archer might’ve levelled.
Albion, though, secured their fourth successive league win, five in all. Here are the talking points.
Something to be proud of
As the club’s head of academy recruitment, Steve Hopcroft, pointed out pre-match, nine of the 11 players who started here had been recruited by the club under the age of ten years old.
Only club stalwart Chris Brunt and Saul Shotton, who was brought in from Bury earlier this season, had not been produced and developed by the Baggies, who deserve serious recognition for the work they do behind the scenes with the club’s prospects.
There’s real talent here, too; we know all about Rekeem Harper, Jack Fitzwater and Rayhaan Tulloch from glimpses of them in the first team, but Josh Griffiths in goal is destined for big things and 17-year-old Harry Williams - playing his first match at U23 level - looked at home there. Finn Azaz is a real presence, while George Harmon continues to impress at left-back.
Together as one
There was a first-team presence on the pitch, of course. Chris Brunt’s professionalism remains unrivalled (not many senior stars would drag themselves out of their homes on a chilly Monday night when they weren’t obliged to, but Brunt loves pulling on the blue and white shirt and passing on his experience and knowledge to those coming through the ranks.
There was a first team presence in the stands here, too; striker Kenneth Zohore arrived just ahead of kick off and took his place among the Villa and Albion fans who had gathered at Bodymoor Heath.
That was a refreshing sight, as was the fact that assistant boss Julian Dicks turned up too, though he might otherwise have been there in order to brief Bilic on the goings on. Either way, there was a real sense of unity present.
Time to make the call
At what point do Albion start seriously consider giving Deon Burton the job on a permanent basis, if they aren’t already?
This was Albion’s fifth win in a row in all competitions, and their fourth in the Premier League 2. They sit nine points behind Manchester United, with a game in hand, and 12 behind rampant and unbeaten West Ham.
Considering the upheaval that Michael Appleton’s exit might’ve caused when Lincoln City came calling earlier in the season, it’s been a particularly smooth transistion under Burton, who was already a familiar face to this young group of Baggies.
Along with Boaz Myhill, who was also barking out instructions here, they appear to be getting more than a tune out of Albion’s 23s. Time to make a call?


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Hundreds of angry shoppers force action on Solihull shops parking

A Solihull pub has changed its parking policy after hundreds of residents raised concern that a clampdown had left a neighbouring parade of small shops `` at bursting point '' .
More than 360 people had called on the council to `` urgently upgrade and improve '' the space available outside the Prospect Lane businesses , after charges were introduced at The Sharman 's Cross pub .
The petition was submitted last month amid fears that the limited facilities in the area were struggling to cope and that the level of congestion posed a road safety risk .
Now however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owners , a deal has been brokered that will allow customers to go back to using The Sharman 's Cross car park for short stops .
The petition was organised by Browns of Solihull , a butchers which has served the area for 80 odd years , and signatures were collected from the shop and its four neighbours in the space of a few days .
Darren Newman , from Browns , said that the agreement was great news for the traders .
`` [ The change ] made it very difficult to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out , '' he told the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) .
`` We now just need to get the word out to customers about the grace period . ''
The new set-up - put in place last week - allows shoppers to use the car park for up to 20 minutes without incurring any charges , while special arrangements have also been made for those going to local hairdressers Cudmore & Co. Cllr Joe Tildesley ( Con , St Alphege ) , who presented the petition to Full Council , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been reached and applauded pub chain Mitchells & Butlers for showing sympathy to the problems traders were facing .
`` I know how delighted both shopkeepers and customers are with this solution , '' he said .
A Sharman ’ s Cross spokesman : `` We ’ re proud of the work we do within the community and we ’ re always looking at ways we can do more .
`` By extending the parking grace period we ’ re able to protect our loyal guests wanting to use our car park when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ street . ''
The petition was in the process of being investigated by the council 's road chiefs , but by the time it got to this month 's environment and highways meeting the deal had been done and no further action will be taken .
Cllr Ken Hawkins , the cabinet member who oversees parking , welcomed the news of a breakthrough having been aware a lack of space had been `` a worry '' for businesses .

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A Solihull pub has changed its parking policy after hundreds of residents raised concern that a clampdown had left a neighbouring parade of small shops "at bursting point".
More than 360 people had called on the council to "urgently upgrade and improve" the space available outside the Prospect Lane businesses, after charges were introduced at The Sharman's Cross pub.
The petition was submitted last month amid fears that the limited facilities in the area were struggling to cope and that the level of congestion posed a road safety risk.
(Image: Cllr Joe Tildesley)
Now however, following talks with the pub's owners, a deal has been brokered that will allow customers to go back to using The Sharman's Cross car park for short stops.
The petition was organised by Browns of Solihull, a butchers which has served the area for 80 odd years, and signatures were collected from the shop and its four neighbours in the space of a few days.
Darren Newman, from Browns, said that the agreement was great news for the traders.
"[The change] made it very difficult to park ... especially when the schools came out," he told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).
"We now just need to get the word out to customers about the grace period."
The new set-up - put in place last week - allows shoppers to use the car park for up to 20 minutes without incurring any charges, while special arrangements have also been made for those going to local hairdressers Cudmore & Co.
Cllr Joe Tildesley (Con, St Alphege), who presented the petition to Full Council, was very pleased that a compromise had been reached and applauded pub chain Mitchells & Butlers for showing sympathy to the problems traders were facing.
"I know how delighted both shopkeepers and customers are with this solution," he said.
A Sharman’s Cross spokesman: "We’re proud of the work we do within the community and we’re always looking at ways we can do more.
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"By extending the parking grace period we’re able to protect our loyal guests wanting to use our car park when visiting, whilst also supporting the high street."
The petition was in the process of being investigated by the council's road chiefs, but by the time it got to this month's environment and highways meeting the deal had been done and no further action will be taken.
Cllr Ken Hawkins, the cabinet member who oversees parking, welcomed the news of a breakthrough having been aware a lack of space had been "a worry" for businesses.


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Twisted Brendan Rowan-Davies guilty of killing mum-of-three after she 'laughed off his advances'

A 29-year-old man has been found guilty of the murder of a mother of three who he tied up and tortured before slitting her throat after she `` laughed '' off his advances .
Brendan Rowan-Davies killed Kelly-Anne Case at her home in Gosport , Hampshire , before setting fire to the property in the early hours of July 30 2019 .
The defendant shook his head as the jury returned its verdicts at Winchester Crown Court , convicting him of murder and arson , and gasps and cries of `` Yes '' could be heard from the public gallery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spent the night with a friend , Will Vallender , at Ms Case 's home and the trio had drunk vodka and taken cocaine .
Rowan-Davies told the court he had told Ms Case he fancied her but `` she just laughed '' .
He told the court Ms Case and Mr Vallender went upstairs to a bedroom to have sex and he filmed them using his mobile phone through a gap in the door .
William Mousley QC , prosecuting , told the court that the two men left the house but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when he tortured and killed Ms Case , bound her hands with cable ties and set light to the house .
Her body was found by firefighters .
Mr Mousley said Rowan-Davies had `` mutilated '' the victim , and added of her wounds : `` These have the appearance of someone wanting to control or coerce or terrify Kelly-Anne so perhaps she would do what she was being told . ''
The prosecutor added that later that morning Rowan-Davies was seen to burn items of clothing and dispose of other items including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Case 's home .
Mr Mousley said DNA matches to the defendant and the victim were found on some of the clothing and on one of the cable ties as well as a sample taken from Ms Case 's body .
Rowan-Davies , who has a previous conviction for burglary after he was found by a mother in her home in Gosport , will be sentenced later .

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A 29-year-old man has been found guilty of the murder of a mother of three who he tied up and tortured before slitting her throat after she "laughed" off his advances.
Brendan Rowan-Davies killed Kelly-Anne Case at her home in Gosport, Hampshire, before setting fire to the property in the early hours of July 30 2019.
The defendant shook his head as the jury returned its verdicts at Winchester Crown Court, convicting him of murder and arson, and gasps and cries of "Yes" could be heard from the public gallery.
The court heard that Rowan-Davies had spent the night with a friend, Will Vallender, at Ms Case's home and the trio had drunk vodka and taken cocaine.
Rowan-Davies told the court he had told Ms Case he fancied her but "she just laughed".
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He told the court Ms Case and Mr Vallender went upstairs to a bedroom to have sex and he filmed them using his mobile phone through a gap in the door.
William Mousley QC, prosecuting, told the court that the two men left the house but Rowan-Davies returned alone an hour later, when he tortured and killed Ms Case, bound her hands with cable ties and set light to the house.
Her body was found by firefighters.
Mr Mousley said Rowan-Davies had "mutilated" the victim, and added of her wounds: "These have the appearance of someone wanting to control or coerce or terrify Kelly-Anne so perhaps she would do what she was being told."
The prosecutor added that later that morning Rowan-Davies was seen to burn items of clothing and dispose of other items including women's underwear he had taken from Ms Case's home.
Mr Mousley said DNA matches to the defendant and the victim were found on some of the clothing and on one of the cable ties as well as a sample taken from Ms Case's body.
Rowan-Davies, who has a previous conviction for burglary after he was found by a mother in her home in Gosport, will be sentenced later.


birminghammail--2020-02-04--"Seriously injured" motorist is cut free from car in Lichfield after crashing into bridge

A “ SERIOUSLY injured ” motorist had to be cut free from his car in Lichfield this morning after it @ @ @ @ @ the city centre .
The man is believed to have suffered a “ medical episode @ @ @ @ @ on Sturgeon ’ s Hill at around 9.15am .
A Spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance @ @ @ @ @ We were called at 9.20am to reports of a car that had crashed into a @ @ @ @ @ “ We sent one ambulance , a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from @ @ @ @ @ “ On arrival we discovered one patient , a man , who was the driver @ @ @ @ @ Crews were told the man had suffered a suspected medical episode prior to the collision @ @ @ @ @ and assessed by ambulance staff whilst the fire service worked to carefully cut the man @ @ @ @ @ “ Following treatment for serious injuries , the man was then airlifted to Queen Elizabeth @ @ @ @ @ assessment .
”

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A “SERIOUSLY injured” motorist had to be cut free from his car in Lichfield this morning after it crashed into a wall in the city centre.
The man is believed to have suffered a “medical episode” prior to the collision on Sturgeon’s Hill at around 9.15am.
A Spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service told BirminghamLive: “We were called at 9.20am to reports of a car that had crashed into a wall on Sturgeons Hill.
“We sent one ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire to the scene.
“On arrival we discovered one patient, a man, who was the driver of the car.
“Crews were told the man had suffered a suspected medical episode prior to the collision.
“He was monitored and assessed by ambulance staff whilst the fire service worked to carefully cut the man free from the car. “Following treatment for serious injuries, the man was then airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham for further assessment.”


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Former banker Jaime Botin who tried to smuggle Pablo Picasso art out of Spain has prison sentence in

Former banker Jaime Botin who tried to smuggle Pablo Picasso art out of Spain has prison sentence increased

A former bank president found guilty of trying to smuggle a painting by Pablo Picasso out of Spain has had his sentence increased by a Spanish court .
The Madrid court announced the decision to raise the sentence against fined ex-Bankinter head Jaime Botin to three years instead of 18 months .
The move came after the prosecution detected an error in the original sentence handed down last month .
The court also raised the amount Botin was fined from 52.4 million euros ( £44.5 million ) to 91.7 million euros ( £77.9 million ) .
The trial last year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts flew to the French island of Corsica in 2015 to retrieve the painting , Picasso 's masterpiece titled Head of a Young Woman .
The Spanish government had ruled that the painting , which is valued at some 24 million euros ( £20.4 million ) , could not be taken out of the country .
The work was owned by Botin , an uncle of Ana Botin , president of the powerful Santander banking group .
Corsican authorities said they had been tipped off about an attempted smuggling of the prized painting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the oil painting , which comes from the Cubist master 's `` pink period '' and features a woman with long black hair , was seized when the boat 's captain was unable to produce a proper certificate .
On the boat , authorities found a document in Spanish confirming that the work was of `` cultural interest '' and was banned from leaving Spain , Picasso 's homeland , without permission .
In the original sentence , the court awarded the painting to the Spanish state .

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A former bank president found guilty of trying to smuggle a painting by Pablo Picasso out of Spain has had his sentence increased by a Spanish court.
The Madrid court announced the decision to raise the sentence against fined ex-Bankinter head Jaime Botin to three years instead of 18 months.
The move came after the prosecution detected an error in the original sentence handed down last month.
The court also raised the amount Botin was fined from 52.4 million euros (£44.5 million) to 91.7 million euros (£77.9 million).
The trial last year heard how a team of Spanish police experts flew to the French island of Corsica in 2015 to retrieve the painting, Picasso's masterpiece titled Head of a Young Woman.
The Spanish government had ruled that the painting, which is valued at some 24 million euros (£20.4 million), could not be taken out of the country.
The work was owned by Botin, an uncle of Ana Botin, president of the powerful Santander banking group.
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Corsican authorities said they had been tipped off about an attempted smuggling of the prized painting from Spain by boat.
They said the oil painting, which comes from the Cubist master's "pink period" and features a woman with long black hair, was seized when the boat's captain was unable to produce a proper certificate.
On the boat, authorities found a document in Spanish confirming that the work was of "cultural interest" and was banned from leaving Spain, Picasso's homeland, without permission.
In the original sentence, the court awarded the painting to the Spanish state.


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Aston Villa news & transfers live: Pundit offers Grealish insight as Liverpool claim is made

Hello and welcome to Tuesday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will be bringing you all @ @ @ @ @ 2-1 defeat to AFC Bournemouth on the south coast , with Dean Smith 's side @ @ @ @ @ the Premier League table with the Cherries leapfrogging them a place above .
Plus there @ @ @ @ @ transfer rumours and , with Villa still able to sign free agents , we will @ @ @ @ @ should there be any developments in that regard .
Villa are n't back in action @ @ @ @ @ when they host Tottenham Hotspur so there 's plenty of time to digest the Bournemouth @ @ @ @ @ Jose Mourinho 's side .
Make sure you stick with us on the blog below @ @ @ @ @

Hello and welcome to Monday's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive.
We will be keeping you up to date with all the latest Villa news and views as Dean Smith's side take a well-earned weekend off from their battle against relegation.
Villa are still in 17th place after the Premier League's weekend fixtures as they prepare for Sunday's visit of Jose Mourinho's Tottenham.
We'll be building up to that clash and bringing all the latest news and rumours regarding potential summer signings.
And we will keep up in the loop with any developments regarding Jack Grealish, with the skipper heavily linked with a move to Manchester United again last night.


birminghammail--2020-02-04--68,000 sign protest against British Gas increasing minimum meter top up from £1 to £5

More than 68,000 people have signed a petition protesting against British Gas ' decision to increase the minimum `` top up '' for fuel payments to £5 .
The petition was launched by Birmingham MP Preet Kaur Gill ( Lab Edgbaston ) , who said the decision `` will invariably mean that many parents wull have to make a choice between food and fuel . ''
British Gas ' decision affects customers on pay-as-you-go tariffs , which means they have a pre-payment meter in their home .
In the past , they could top up their key or card - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the meter - by just £1 .
Now , however , they will need to put at least £5 in .
Ms Gill and other campaigners say that this will hit low-income households who may have a couple of pounds to tied them over to the next payday but ca n't afford to put £5 in the meter in one go .
She has launched a petition urging British Gas to reverse the decision , and it has so far been signed by 68,500 people .
The petition warns : `` It will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hot meal , have a bath or turn the heating on .
Those who use top-up meters are often in debt and have insecure incomes , and rely on small top-ups to ration their heating to see themselves through to payday . ''
Ms Gill also points out that people on pre-pay meters actually pay more for the fuel than people on other payment schemes .
She said : `` A company which last reported profits of £466 million should not be increasing the burden on its most hard-up customers .
We ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and reverses this decision . ''
British Gas said the move was connected to a decision to switch from one payment service , called PayPoint , to a service called Payzone .
A British Gas spokesperson said : `` We are continually reviewing our suppliers to ensure we get the best service and value for our customers and we decided to move this service to Payzone as part of this review .
`` As part of this change , we have increased the minimum vend from £1 to £5 to be consistent with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also has a £5 minimum top up .
Only a very small number of our customers currently top up under this amount .
This change has also been made due to increasing transaction costs , and in line with many of our competitors , who also have a minimum vend policy .
`` We also have a number of services available for any customers who struggle financially with this change .
We can offer discretionary credit to those under financial hardship .
We have specialist call centre agents to help anyone struggling to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help they need .
We also set up the British Gas Energy Trust as an independent charity that offers advice , assistance and grants to people who are struggling to pay their bills . ''

More than 68,000 people have signed a petition protesting against British Gas' decision to increase the minimum "top up" for fuel payments to £5.
The petition was launched by Birmingham MP Preet Kaur Gill (Lab Edgbaston), who said the decision "will invariably mean that many parents wull have to make a choice between food and fuel."
British Gas' decision affects customers on pay-as-you-go tariffs, which means they have a pre-payment meter in their home. In the past, they could top up their key or card - which is used to put money in the meter - by just £1. Now, however, they will need to put at least £5 in.
Ms Gill and other campaigners say that this will hit low-income households who may have a couple of pounds to tied them over to the next payday but can't afford to put £5 in the meter in one go.
She has launched a petition urging British Gas to reverse the decision, and it has so far been signed by 68,500 people. The petition warns: "It will mean not being able to cook a hot meal, have a bath or turn the heating on. Those who use top-up meters are often in debt and have insecure incomes, and rely on small top-ups to ration their heating to see themselves through to payday."
Ms Gill also points out that people on pre-pay meters actually pay more for the fuel than people on other payment schemes.
She said: "A company which last reported profits of £466 million should not be increasing the burden on its most hard-up customers. We ask that British Gas does the responsible thing and reverses this decision."
British Gas said the move was connected to a decision to switch from one payment service, called PayPoint, to a service called Payzone.
A British Gas spokesperson said: "We are continually reviewing our suppliers to ensure we get the best service and value for our customers and we decided to move this service to Payzone as part of this review.
"As part of this change, we have increased the minimum vend from £1 to £5 to be consistent with our smart online top up service which also has a £5 minimum top up. Only a very small number of our customers currently top up under this amount. This change has also been made due to increasing transaction costs, and in line with many of our competitors, who also have a minimum vend policy.
"We also have a number of services available for any customers who struggle financially with this change. We can offer discretionary credit to those under financial hardship. We have specialist call centre agents to help anyone struggling to advise them on how to access the help they need. We also set up the British Gas Energy Trust as an independent charity that offers advice, assistance and grants to people who are struggling to pay their bills."


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Coronavirus expert's chilling three word update over vaccine as outbreak spreads

A vaccine designed to combat the deadly coronavirus is a `` long way off '' and will not be ready in time for the current outbreak .
David Heymann , professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , said he was confident a vaccine would be developed `` one day '' but not in time to stem the current outbreak .
Infectious disease experts have been given £20 million of UK Government funding to embark to produce a coronavirus vaccine .
The investment will go to CEPI ( the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fast-track a vaccine within six to eight months .
Prof Heymann told a briefing : `` A vaccine is a long way off .
There will not be a vaccine probably to deal with this outbreak , but there is work being done on coronavirus vaccines in general .
I 'm confident that there will one day be a coronavirus vaccine . ''
Prof Heymann headed up the global response to Sars - severe acute respiratory syndrome - as executive director of communicable diseases at the World Health Organisation .
He said there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not having the impact of Sars , an illness from the same virus family as the current outbreak which hit in 2002-03 .
Hospital workers do not appear to be getting infected by the new coronavirus , he said , adding `` either there 's better prevention and control in hospital settings or it 's just a different virus '' .
He continued : `` Sars caused major outbreaks when it was exported from China , major hospital outbreaks - that has n't yet happened in this outbreak , this disease so that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That 's not to say it wo n't happen in the future but it has n't happened yet .
The world is much more prepared to deal with these things now than it was then . ''
He also said it now appears that the outbreak may have stemmed from multiple markets in China , rather than just the one in Wuhan .
He said the `` logical scenario '' or hypothesis is that a bat is a healthy carrier of the virus , which infects animals and then is passed on to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ animal .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jemma Crew, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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A vaccine designed to combat the deadly coronavirus is a "long way off" and will not be ready in time for the current outbreak.
David Heymann, professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said he was confident a vaccine would be developed "one day" but not in time to stem the current outbreak.
Infectious disease experts have been given £20 million of UK Government funding to embark to produce a coronavirus vaccine. The investment will go to CEPI (the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations), a global body aiming to fast-track a vaccine within six to eight months.
Prof Heymann told a briefing: "A vaccine is a long way off. There will not be a vaccine probably to deal with this outbreak, but there is work being done on coronavirus vaccines in general. I'm confident that there will one day be a coronavirus vaccine."
(Image: PA)
Prof Heymann headed up the global response to Sars - severe acute respiratory syndrome - as executive director of communicable diseases at the World Health Organisation.
He said there were some signs the new coronavirus is not having the impact of Sars, an illness from the same virus family as the current outbreak which hit in 2002-03.
Hospital workers do not appear to be getting infected by the new coronavirus, he said, adding "either there's better prevention and control in hospital settings or it's just a different virus".
He continued: "Sars caused major outbreaks when it was exported from China, major hospital outbreaks - that hasn't yet happened in this outbreak, this disease so that's one point to compare.
"That's not to say it won't happen in the future but it hasn't happened yet. The world is much more prepared to deal with these things now than it was then."
He also said it now appears that the outbreak may have stemmed from multiple markets in China, rather than just the one in Wuhan.
He said the "logical scenario" or hypothesis is that a bat is a healthy carrier of the virus, which infects animals and then is passed on to humans who have contact with the infected animal.


birminghammail--2020-02-04--IKEA shoppers react with heartbreak as Coventry store set to close

Shoppers have had their say on the news that IKEA is planning to close one of its large UK stores for the first time .
The company said it will close the doors of its £35 million Coventry branch , which opened at Christmas in 2007 , in Summer 2020 with 352 workers expected to lose their jobs .
The Swedish furniture giant said it `` remains committed to growth in the UK '' and is looking into how it can meet customers needs as the high street evolves .
Reacting to the news , Birmingham Live readers wrote on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the only reason I went to Coventry it was much better than Wednesbury , '' said one person .
Another wrote : `` I use the Coventry one but it is a nightmare if a maze inside - always get lost !
! ''
Over on Twitter , one person wrote : `` Without a car , Coventry Ikea is infinitely easier to get to than Wednesbury so this feels like a backwards step when we 're trying to encourage mode shift .
I imagine if Ikea offered free home delivery but charged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turned . ''
`` What a blow for all their staff .
I will personally miss Coventry IKEA too : ( , '' added a second person .
A third tweeted : `` Just found out they ’ re closing Coventry ’ s ikea and I ’ m heartbroken : ( wtf they gon na do with the building , student accommodation ? ''
Another pointed out that it would affect a large number of adult social care groups and parents with children who use the store to socialise .
Not everyone was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IKEA store that 's in Wednesbury .
Commenting on the Birmingham Live Facebook page , one wrote : `` I live in Coventry and would rather drive down the M6 to Wednesbury anyway .
It 's a nightmare if a place ! ''
Another wrote on Twitter : `` I do n't blame ikea !
I 'd rather travel to the one off j9 of the M6 . ''
In a statement , Ikea said : `` The store was built over seven levels , which resulted in a significant impact on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shopping experience for customers .
`` In addition , the changing behaviour of customers in the area who prefer to shop in retail parks and online has resulted in visitor numbers being substantially lower than expected and continuing to decrease over time .
`` These factors have led to the store making consistent losses . ''
The company said it tried a number of initiatives to keep the store open but `` these have not resolved the fundamental challenges connected to the location and the format of the store '' .
An attempt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ site was `` not a realistic option '' .

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Shoppers have had their say on the news that IKEA is planning to close one of its large UK stores for the first time.
The company said it will close the doors of its £35 million Coventry branch, which opened at Christmas in 2007, in Summer 2020 with 352 workers expected to lose their jobs.
The Swedish furniture giant said it "remains committed to growth in the UK" and is looking into how it can meet customers needs as the high street evolves.
Reacting to the news, Birmingham Live readers wrote on our Facebook page: "IKEA was the only reason I went to Coventry it was much better than Wednesbury," said one person.
(Image: Coventry Telegraph)
Another wrote: "I use the Coventry one but it is a nightmare if a maze inside - always get lost!!"
Over on Twitter, one person wrote: "Without a car, Coventry Ikea is infinitely easier to get to than Wednesbury so this feels like a backwards step when we're trying to encourage mode shift. I imagine if Ikea offered free home delivery but charged for parking, the tables would be turned."
"What a blow for all their staff. I will personally miss Coventry IKEA too :(," added a second person.
A third tweeted: "Just found out they’re closing Coventry’s ikea and I’m heartbroken :( wtf they gonna do with the building, student accommodation?"
Another pointed out that it would affect a large number of adult social care groups and parents with children who use the store to socialise.
Not everyone was disappointed though as many pointed out the IKEA store that's in Wednesbury.
Commenting on the Birmingham Live Facebook page, one wrote: "I live in Coventry and would rather drive down the M6 to Wednesbury anyway. It's a nightmare if a place!"
Another wrote on Twitter: " I don't blame ikea! I'd rather travel to the one off j9 of the M6."
In a statement, Ikea said: "The store was built over seven levels, which resulted in a significant impact on the operating costs of the store and the shopping experience for customers.
"In addition, the changing behaviour of customers in the area who prefer to shop in retail parks and online has resulted in visitor numbers being substantially lower than expected and continuing to decrease over time.
"These factors have led to the store making consistent losses."
The company said it tried a number of initiatives to keep the store open but "these have not resolved the fundamental challenges connected to the location and the format of the store".
An attempt by Ikea to downsize or redevelop the site was "not a realistic option".


birminghammail--2020-02-04--'Suspected drug dealers' arrested after Audi Q8 crashes near Scott Arms pub in Great Barr

This is the aftermath of a crash close to the Scott Arms Pub in Great Barr .
Three men were arrested after the car they were traveling in failed to stop for a police patrol vehicle before crashing into roadside barriers and a traffic light on the Walsall Road .
West Midlands Police said an Audi Q8 'made off ' in Victoria Road , Aston , at around 8.55pm last night ( Monday ) but crashed minutes later after failing to stop for a patrol car .
The force told BirminghamLive one passenger , a 31-year-old from Perry Barr , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by police dog Swift to gardens in Calshot Road where he was arrested .
The driver , a 25-year-old local man , was arrested on suspicion of drug supply , dangerous driving and failing to stop .
Another passenger , aged 28 of no fixed address , was also arrested .
Both passengers were arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply .
A large amount of cash was recovered from the Audi along with mobile phones and a quantity of cannabis .
Police say all three men remain in police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Midlands Police spokesman said : `` We arrested three suspected drug dealers after the car they were driving failed to stop for a police patrol vehicle before crashing in Birmingham .
`` The Audi Q8 made off in Victoria Road , Aston , at around 8.55pm last night but minutes later collided with roadside barriers and a traffic light in Walsall Road near the Scott Arms pub .
`` One passenger – a 31-year-old from Perry Barr – ran from the car but was tracked by Police Dog Swift to gardens in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The driver – a 25-year-old local man – was arrested on suspicion of drug supply , dangerous driving and failing to stop .
`` Another passenger , aged 28 of no fixed address , was also arrested .
Both passengers were arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply .
`` A large amount of cash was recovered from the Audi along with constantly ringing mobile phones and a quantity of cannabis .
`` All three men remain in police custody this morning for questioning . ''
A West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were called to Walsall Road at 9.07pm on Monday night to reports of a two vehicle collision .
We were told to stand down shortly after . ''

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This is the aftermath of a crash close to the Scott Arms Pub in Great Barr.
Three men were arrested after the car they were traveling in failed to stop for a police patrol vehicle before crashing into roadside barriers and a traffic light on the Walsall Road.
West Midlands Police said an Audi Q8 'made off' in Victoria Road, Aston, at around 8.55pm last night (Monday) but crashed minutes later after failing to stop for a patrol car.
The force told BirminghamLive one passenger, a 31-year-old from Perry Barr, ran from the car but was tracked by police dog Swift to gardens in Calshot Road where he was arrested.
(Image: Handout)
The driver, a 25-year-old local man, was arrested on suspicion of drug supply, dangerous driving and failing to stop.
Another passenger, aged 28 of no fixed address, was also arrested. Both passengers were arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply.
A large amount of cash was recovered from the Audi along with mobile phones and a quantity of cannabis.
Police say all three men remain in police custody this morning for questioning.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "We arrested three suspected drug dealers after the car they were driving failed to stop for a police patrol vehicle before crashing in Birmingham.
"The Audi Q8 made off in Victoria Road, Aston, at around 8.55pm last night but minutes later collided with roadside barriers and a traffic light in Walsall Road near the Scott Arms pub.
"One passenger – a 31-year-old from Perry Barr – ran from the car but was tracked by Police Dog Swift to gardens in Calshot Road where he was arrested.
"The driver – a 25-year-old local man – was arrested on suspicion of drug supply, dangerous driving and failing to stop.
"Another passenger, aged 28 of no fixed address, was also arrested. Both passengers were arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply.
"A large amount of cash was recovered from the Audi along with constantly ringing mobile phones and a quantity of cannabis.
"All three men remain in police custody this morning for questioning."
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "We were called to Walsall Road at 9.07pm on Monday night to reports of a two vehicle collision. We were told to stand down shortly after."


birminghammail--2020-02-04--Assistant headteacher who left school with no qualifications takes GCSE English exam - 34 years late

Assistant headteacher who left school with no qualifications takes GCSE English exam - 34 years later

An assistant principal who left school at 16 without qualifications has finally taken her English GCSE exam - 34 years later .
Sharon Maloney , 50 , left school in the 1980s with just the lower CSE qualifications and no O-levels - the GCSE equivalent .
Yet despite the fact Sharon “ didn ’ t perform well ” at school and gained grades that “ didn ’ t equate to anything ” , she has gone on to become an assistant principal .
She has hopes of one day becoming the head of a school but in order to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So 34 years after leaving school Sharon , from Melton Mowbray , Leics.
, took her English exam in November last year , learning the entire syllabus in just six weeks .
Sharon , who passed with the equivalent to a grade C , a grade 6 , said : “ I only took the lower band of exams and when I look back now they just don ’ t mean a lot at all .
“ I didn ’ t perform well at school and I wasn ’ t encouraged to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way it worked out unfortunately .
“ If I want to become a principal then I need to be a qualified teacher and I can ’ t without having my English .
“ I found it difficult .
I have always been led to believe I was not good at English .
“ It was stressful and I got so worked up about it that I was worried I would freeze up in the exam and not be able to write anything .
“ When I got the result I was proud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me because I felt like I needed to prove myself.
” After leaving school aged 16 Sharon worked in catering for 10 years and enjoyed a successful career at a hotel in Nottingham , where she met her chef husband , James , 57 .
But ever since school she had a passion for teaching and decided she wanted to make a career change .
She first got a job at a pre-school and then as a teaching assistant at a primary school .
It was when she was here , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a career in teaching seriously and began studying towards a NVQ Level 3 .
Sharon only allowed to complete the foundation level course because she had gained enough work experience , which filled in for her lack of academic qualifications .
As part of the process Sharon also sat her maths GCSE exams because she wanted to work at a high level in education .
Mother-of-two , Sharon , said : “ I did the NVQ regardless of the fact I didn ’ t have my English GCSE .
“ Luckily Leicestershire County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the course at the University of Derby.
” After completing the course Sharon went on to manage a nursery and study a three-year BA Hons degree in teaching .
“ `` That was very hard work , balancing the degree with a husband , raising two children and working full-time ” , Sharon said .
Sharon started working at Long Field Academy , where she works now , in 2012 upon completing the degree .
She passed with a 2:1 and started out at the school as an inclusion support officer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ through the ranks and in 2017 was appointed as the primary school ’ s assistant principal .
However Sharon has said she wants to progress even further but to do so she needs to hold maths and English GCSEs .
So in November 2019 she sat the exams , after learning the entire syllabus in just six weeks .
She plans on using her new qualification as a stepping stone to starting a PGCE qualification so she can become a fully fledged teacher at Long Field .
Sharon said : “ It means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ qualified teacher .
I felt like I needed to prove myself .
“ It ’ s all about believing in yourself and proving other people wrong .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jack Longstaff, James Rodger)

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An assistant principal who left school at 16 without qualifications has finally taken her English GCSE exam - 34 years later.
Sharon Maloney, 50, left school in the 1980s with just the lower CSE qualifications and no O-levels - the GCSE equivalent.
Yet despite the fact Sharon “didn’t perform well” at school and gained grades that “didn’t equate to anything”, she has gone on to become an assistant principal.
She has hopes of one day becoming the head of a school but in order to do so needs to sit GCSE exams.
So 34 years after leaving school Sharon, from Melton Mowbray, Leics., took her English exam in November last year, learning the entire syllabus in just six weeks.
(Image: SWNS)
Sharon, who passed with the equivalent to a grade C, a grade 6, said: “I only took the lower band of exams and when I look back now they just don’t mean a lot at all.
“I didn’t perform well at school and I wasn’t encouraged to do so either. It’s just the way it worked out unfortunately.
“If I want to become a principal then I need to be a qualified teacher and I can’t without having my English.
“I found it difficult. I have always been led to believe I was not good at English.
“It was stressful and I got so worked up about it that I was worried I would freeze up in the exam and not be able to write anything.
“When I got the result I was proud of myself. It meant a lot to me because I felt like I needed to prove myself.”
(Image: SWNS)
After leaving school aged 16 Sharon worked in catering for 10 years and enjoyed a successful career at a hotel in Nottingham, where she met her chef husband, James, 57.
But ever since school she had a passion for teaching and decided she wanted to make a career change.
She first got a job at a pre-school and then as a teaching assistant at a primary school.
It was when she was here, in 2009, that she decided to take a career in teaching seriously and began studying towards a NVQ Level 3.
Sharon only allowed to complete the foundation level course because she had gained enough work experience, which filled in for her lack of academic qualifications.
(Image: SWNS)
As part of the process Sharon also sat her maths GCSE exams because she wanted to work at a high level in education.
Mother-of-two, Sharon, said: “I did the NVQ regardless of the fact I didn’t have my English GCSE.
“Luckily Leicestershire County Council were offering places and I got on the course at the University of Derby.”
After completing the course Sharon went on to manage a nursery and study a three-year BA Hons degree in teaching.
“"That was very hard work, balancing the degree with a husband, raising two children and working full-time”, Sharon said.
Sharon started working at Long Field Academy, where she works now, in 2012 upon completing the degree.
She passed with a 2:1 and started out at the school as an inclusion support officer.
(Image: SWNS)
But over the years she has risen through the ranks and in 2017 was appointed as the primary school’s assistant principal.
However Sharon has said she wants to progress even further but to do so she needs to hold maths and English GCSEs.
So in November 2019 she sat the exams, after learning the entire syllabus in just six weeks.
(Image: SWNS)
She plans on using her new qualification as a stepping stone to starting a PGCE qualification so she can become a fully fledged teacher at Long Field.
Sharon said: “It means a lot to me to become a qualified teacher. I felt like I needed to prove myself.
“It’s all about believing in yourself and proving other people wrong.”