birminghammail--2020-06-13--The Worcestershire county lines drug dealers busted by police

It is the crime epidemic whereby gangs exploit young and vulnerable people into trafficking drugs into different parts of the country - and Worcestershire appears to be a prime target .
For West Mercia Police it has become a priority to try and dismantle 'County Lines ' - named after the mobile phone 'lines ' used to sell drugs .
Some of Worcestershire 's market and spa towns have sadly become classic examples of unsuspecting rural communities flooded with Class A drugs - often from dealers operating out of neighbouring Birmingham and the Black Country .
But in recent years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major breakthroughs in dismantling the networks .
They even issued a warning to perpetrators that officers were remaining very much alert to County Lines threats during lockdown .
Here we rundown just five times that police were able to snare drugs dealers targeting Worcestershire .
They were stopped on the North Malvern Road on June 23 , 2018 , and found in possession of heroin , cash and mobile phones .
The subsequent investigation revealed they had travelled to the town on a number of previous occasions .
West Mercia Police stated : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supplying to Malvern was a well-established line that we believe had been ongoing for some time .
We are determined to shut down county lines networks and this investigation is testament to that commitment . ''
They were both found guilty of conspiring to sell Class A drugs and sentenced at Worcester Crown Court on March 6 .
Miah , of Taunton Road , Birmingham and aged 32 years old at the time , was sentenced to five years and eight months .
Shazad , of Brantford Road , Birmingham and 26-years-old at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prison .
The so-called 'Miller Line ' is estimated to have netted Sandwell drug lord Michael Miller £100,000 in 12 months by supplying drugs into market and spa towns , particular Malvern and neighbouring Ledbury in Herefordshire .
But the network was taken down following a covert police sting .
Miller was first arrested on December 13 , 2018 when he was spotted in Malvern on a suspected drugs delivery run .
He tried to flee from officers but was caught and a bag containing heroin and cocaine worth more than £1,000 was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involvement of Marco Velasco from Sutherland Street , Aston , and Malvern man Bradley Hughes , from Clare Road , who ran the Worcestershire arm of the drugs network .
Miller , who had been released under investigation , was arrested again driving through Worcester .
A subsequent search of his home found a stash of designer trainers , shoes and belts worth more than £10,000 - despite the fact he claimed to be unemployed without any income .
Velasco and Hughes were arrested days later along with another suspect Bradley Rice , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to admit conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine .
In February 2019 Miller , the ringleader , of Cooper Close West Bromwich and aged 31 at the time , was jailed for eight years and nine months .
Hughes , aged 19 at the time , received 45 months , Velasco , also 19 , was handed 30 months , and Rice , aged 34 at the time , was imprisoned for 22 months .
Police estimated the Miller Line advertised drugs to more than 100 customers and raked in over £1,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part in a week-long co-ordinated national crackdown on County Lines drug networks last October .
A number of warrants were executed and vehicles stopped across the force 's four main areas including Worcestershire .
Thirty two arrests were made and more than £13,500 in cash was recovered as well as thousands of pounds worth of drugs seized including crack , cocaine , heroin and cannabis .
Officers also recovered a range of weapons including knives , machetes , replica shotguns along with a number of tablets and mobile phones .
Assistant Chief Constable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had 'significantly disrupted ' drug dealing across the force area .
Four men supplying heroin and crack cocaine from the West Midlands into Malvern were brought to justice in June 2017 .
In December two years earlier police swooped on a number of properties in the spa town as well as Birmingham seizing significant amounts of drugs .
Four men were arrested and pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply Class A drugs .
Shane Antony Jonas , aged 20 at the time , and from Beaconview Road , West Bromwich , was sentenced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kiyan Jones , aged 19 at the time , from Shenstone Road , Edgbaston , received six years and nine months .
Elliot Richard Whittock , who was 21 and already in HM Prison Dovegate , was handed five years and three months .
And Neil James Bozward , who was 45 at the time , of Duke of Edinburgh Way , Malvern , was sentenced to three years and five months .
The term was encompassed in a total sentence of 23 years for offences in relation to inciting child prostitution and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prison Service confirmed that Bozward was found dead at HMP Isle of Wight on April 24 this year .
Nine drug dealers mainly from the Black Country ran a cocaine and heroin network into Wyre Forest unchecked until police launched an investigation in 2017 .
Officers from Kidderminster 's Integrated Offender Management team received intelligence that the men were involved in a major County Lines operation which had been operating for some time .
The West Mercia and West Midlands forces combined to carry out a number of arrests although some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led police on road chases before they were finally captured .
All nine were sentenced in September last year following a two-week trial .
Mark Burnett , aged 25 at the time , and of Church Green , Bilston , and Ryan Barnett , aged 23 at the time and of Salop Road , Oldbury , were identified as the ring leaders .
They were found guilty of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and sentenced to nine years and five months and seven years and one month , respectively .
Jamal Pottinger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oldbury , and Rennell Smith , 26 , of Lower High Street , Wednesbury , were both sentenced to three years and six months in prison after being found guilty of the same charge .
Gordon Deen , 35 , of Addenbrooke Road , Smethwick , was sentenced to three years and four months in prison and disqualified from driving for 12 months after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs and dangerous driving .
He was also ordered to take an extended driving test .
Terrelle White , 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was sentenced to 22 months in prison , suspended for two years , and ordered to complete a 20 day rehabilitation activity requirement , in addition to 95 hours of unpaid work , after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs .
He was also ordered to pay £300 in costs Callum Hill , 26 , of Longbank Road , Oldbury , was sentenced to three years and 11 months in prison after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs , while Scott Winfield , 43 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to three years and seven months in prison and disqualified from driving for 12 months after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs and dangerous driving .
Tyrone Crowley , 24 , of Thompson Road , Oldbury , was sentenced to four years in prison and disqualified from driving for 12 months extended by two years until an extended driving test is completed after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs and dangerous driving .

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It is the crime epidemic whereby gangs exploit young and vulnerable people into trafficking drugs into different parts of the country - and Worcestershire appears to be a prime target.
For West Mercia Police it has become a priority to try and dismantle 'County Lines' - named after the mobile phone 'lines' used to sell drugs.
Some of Worcestershire's market and spa towns have sadly become classic examples of unsuspecting rural communities flooded with Class A drugs - often from dealers operating out of neighbouring Birmingham and the Black Country.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
But in recent years the force has made a number of major breakthroughs in dismantling the networks. They even issued a warning to perpetrators that officers were remaining very much alert to County Lines threats during lockdown.
Here we rundown just five times that police were able to snare drugs dealers targeting Worcestershire.
Rubel Miah and Usman Shazad
Birmingham pair Rubel Miah and Usman Shazad supplied class A drugs to Worcestershire spa town Malvern.
They were stopped on the North Malvern Road on June 23, 2018, and found in possession of heroin, cash and mobile phones. The subsequent investigation revealed they had travelled to the town on a number of previous occasions.
West Mercia Police stated: "The drugs that the pair were supplying to Malvern was a well-established line that we believe had been ongoing for some time. We are determined to shut down county lines networks and this investigation is testament to that commitment."
They were both found guilty of conspiring to sell Class A drugs and sentenced at Worcester Crown Court on March 6. Miah, of Taunton Road, Birmingham and aged 32 years old at the time, was sentenced to five years and eight months. Shazad, of Brantford Road, Birmingham and 26-years-old at the time was handed five years in prison.
The 'Miller Line' busted
(Image: West Midlands Police)
The so-called 'Miller Line' is estimated to have netted Sandwell drug lord Michael Miller £100,000 in 12 months by supplying drugs into market and spa towns, particular Malvern and neighbouring Ledbury in Herefordshire.
But the network was taken down following a covert police sting. Miller was first arrested on December 13, 2018 when he was spotted in Malvern on a suspected drugs delivery run. He tried to flee from officers but was caught and a bag containing heroin and cocaine worth more than £1,000 was found nearby.
An investigation revealed the involvement of Marco Velasco from Sutherland Street, Aston, and Malvern man Bradley Hughes, from Clare Road, who ran the Worcestershire arm of the drugs network.
(Image: WMP)
Miller, who had been released under investigation, was arrested again driving through Worcester. A subsequent search of his home found a stash of designer trainers, shoes and belts worth more than £10,000 - despite the fact he claimed to be unemployed without any income.
Velasco and Hughes were arrested days later along with another suspect Bradley Rice, from Malvern.
All four went on to admit conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine. In February 2019 Miller, the ringleader, of Cooper Close West Bromwich and aged 31 at the time, was jailed for eight years and nine months.
Hughes, aged 19 at the time, received 45 months, Velasco, also 19, was handed 30 months, and Rice, aged 34 at the time, was imprisoned for 22 months. Police estimated the Miller Line advertised drugs to more than 100 customers and raked in over £1,000 a day.
32 arrests in one week
West Mercia Police took part in a week-long co-ordinated national crackdown on County Lines drug networks last October.
A number of warrants were executed and vehicles stopped across the force's four main areas including Worcestershire. Thirty two arrests were made and more than £13,500 in cash was recovered as well as thousands of pounds worth of drugs seized including crack, cocaine, heroin and cannabis.
Officers also recovered a range of weapons including knives, machetes, replica shotguns along with a number of tablets and mobile phones.
Assistant Chief Constable Geoff Wessell declared that the targeted action had 'significantly disrupted' drug dealing across the force area.
Gang jailed for over 20 years
(Image: West Mercia Police)
Four men supplying heroin and crack cocaine from the West Midlands into Malvern were brought to justice in June 2017.
In December two years earlier police swooped on a number of properties in the spa town as well as Birmingham seizing significant amounts of drugs.
Four men were arrested and pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply Class A drugs. Shane Antony Jonas, aged 20 at the time, and from Beaconview Road, West Bromwich, was sentenced to five years and seven months.
Kiyan Jones, aged 19 at the time, from Shenstone Road, Edgbaston, received six years and nine months. Elliot Richard Whittock, who was 21 and already in HM Prison Dovegate, was handed five years and three months.
And Neil James Bozward, who was 45 at the time, of Duke of Edinburgh Way, Malvern, was sentenced to three years and five months.
The term was encompassed in a total sentence of 23 years for offences in relation to inciting child prostitution and aiding and abetting rape. Last month the Prison Service confirmed that Bozward was found dead at HMP Isle of Wight on April 24 this year.
Black Country dealers flooded Wyre Forest with drugs
(Image: West Mercia Police)
Nine drug dealers mainly from the Black Country ran a cocaine and heroin network into Wyre Forest unchecked until police launched an investigation in 2017.
Officers from Kidderminster's Integrated Offender Management team received intelligence that the men were involved in a major County Lines operation which had been operating for some time. The West Mercia and West Midlands forces combined to carry out a number of arrests although some of the suspects refused to come quietly and led police on road chases before they were finally captured.
All nine were sentenced in September last year following a two-week trial.
Mark Burnett, aged 25 at the time, and of Church Green, Bilston, and Ryan Barnett, aged 23 at the time and of Salop Road, Oldbury, were identified as the ring leaders. They were found guilty of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and sentenced to nine years and five months and seven years and one month, respectively.
Jamal Pottinger, 29, of Romsley Road, Oldbury, and Rennell Smith, 26, of Lower High Street, Wednesbury, were both sentenced to three years and six months in prison after being found guilty of the same charge.
Gordon Deen, 35, of Addenbrooke Road, Smethwick, was sentenced to three years and four months in prison and disqualified from driving for 12 months after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs and dangerous driving. He was also ordered to take an extended driving test.
Terrelle White, 24, of Bideford Road, Smethwick, was sentenced to 22 months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to complete a 20 day rehabilitation activity requirement, in addition to 95 hours of unpaid work, after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs. He was also ordered to pay £300 in costs
Callum Hill, 26, of Longbank Road, Oldbury, was sentenced to three years and 11 months in prison after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs, while Scott Winfield, 43, of Queensway, Bewdley, was sentenced to three years and seven months in prison and disqualified from driving for 12 months after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs and dangerous driving.
Tyrone Crowley, 24, of Thompson Road, Oldbury, was sentenced to four years in prison and disqualified from driving for 12 months extended by two years until an extended driving test is completed after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A drugs and dangerous driving.


birminghammail--2020-06-13--The cases before Black Country magistrates courts this week

A woman who assaulted a police officer and a B & M thief have appeared before courts across the Black Country this week .
Also in the dock was a man who stole and used a woman 's bank card .
Here is a round-up of the latest cases to have gone before Black Country Magistrates ' Court : A Tipton woman has been jailed for assaulting a 999 worker .
Stacey Fagan - pictured above - targeted the female police officer in Wednesbury on June 6 .
The 32-year-old also caused £150 worth of damage to the rear seats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went on to cause £50 worth of damage to a floor at Oldbury Custody Suite .
Fagan , of Coronation Road , was sent to prison for 14 weeks and must pay a victim surcharge of £122 .
A shoplifter who was caught with a craft knife in public has been jailed for 20 weeks .
Lyndsey Hammersley stole £202.83 worth of items - including meat , coffee , chocolate and baby milk - from Co-op stores in Walsall between April 10 and June 6 .
She was also found to have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The offences were committed while she was on licence .
The 28-year-old , of no fixed address , must also pay a victim surcharge of £122 .
A 28-year-old has been jailed for sexual assault .
John-Luke Stephens intentionally touched a woman aged 16 or over in Walsall on June 5 without her consent .
The 28-year-old , of no fixed address , was sent to prison for 20 weeks and must pay a victim surcharge of £128 .
He must also register with the police in accordance with the Sexual Offences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man who assaulted a police officer twice has been jailed for 14 weeks .
Jack Dalby , of Green Lane , Shelfield , committed the offences in Pelsall and Oldbury on May 13 .
He was also sentenced for failing to provide a specimen of breath for analysis during the course of an investigation into whether he had committed an offence .
The 32-year-old , who was subject to a suspended sentence at the time , was given 10 penalty points and must pay £200 compensation and a victim surcharge of £128 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks after he assaulted two police officers .
Thomas Ahern , of Stafford Street , Walsall , was also sentenced for damaging a flat door in Walsall on June 10 .
He must pay compensation of £200 and a victim surcharge of £128 .
Thomas Walsh committed the offence in Wednesbury on June 5 .
He was also found to be in possession of cannabis .
The 23-year-old , of Fisher Street , Dudley , must carry out 80 hours unpaid work and pay a victim surcharge of £95 and £185 court costs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been discharged conditionally for 12 months .
Mohammed Farooq stole beauty products and medicine , worth £58.88 , from the Dudley store on June 8 .
The 39-year-old , of no fixed address , must pay a victim surcharge of £22 .
A woman who stole from The Range has been jailed for 25 weeks .
Gemma Murphy took bedding , worth £152.94 , from the Brierley Hill store on January 27 .
The 30-year-old , of White City Road , Quarry Bank , also failed to surrender to custody at Dudley Magistrates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been released on bail .
Murphy was also sentenced for obstructing a police officer in the execution of his duty in Oldbury on March 11 and stealing items , worth more than £151 , from Boots in Cape Hill between February 16 and March 11 .
She must pay a victim surcharge of £122 .
Neil Bowers defied the order - made by Walsall Magistrates ' Court on February 27 - by going to Sainsbury 's in Raglan Street , Wolverhampton , on June 7 .
The 54-year-old , of no fixed address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of £34 .
A 52-year-old has been given a suspended sentence for stealing from B & M .
Mark Williams helped himself to £7.43 worth of alcohol from the Wolverhampton store on June 8 .
The 'prolific offender ' was handed an 18 week prison sentence , suspended for 12 months .
He was also given a one month curfew and for the duration must remain at his home address between 4pm and 4am .
Williams , of Thynne Street , West Bromwich , must pay a victim surcharge of £128 and £135 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fined £250 for being drunk and disorderly .
Kevin Lightfoot committed the offence in Walsall Road , West Bromwich , on June 9 .
The 53-year-old , of Chartley Road , West Bromwich , must pay a victim surcharge of £32 and £135 court costs .
A man who stole and used a woman 's bank card has been handed a suspended sentence .
Paul Cross took his victim 's bank card and purse , worth £60 , in Cradley Heath on June 6 .
The 43-year-old then committed fraud by using the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He was given a 35 week prison sentence , suspended for 16 months .
Cross , of High Street , Cradley Heath , was also given a two month curfew and for the duration must remain at his home address between 3pm and 3am .
He must also pay £200 compensation and £185 court costs .

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A woman who assaulted a police officer and a B&M thief have appeared before courts across the Black Country this week.
Also in the dock was a man who stole and used a woman's bank card.
Here is a round-up of the latest cases to have gone before Black Country Magistrates' Court:
Tipton
A Tipton woman has been jailed for assaulting a 999 worker.
Stacey Fagan - pictured above - targeted the female police officer in Wednesbury on June 6.
The 32-year-old also caused £150 worth of damage to the rear seats of a police vehicle. She then went on to cause £50 worth of damage to a floor at Oldbury Custody Suite.
Fagan, of Coronation Road, was sent to prison for 14 weeks and must pay a victim surcharge of £122.
Walsall
A shoplifter who was caught with a craft knife in public has been jailed for 20 weeks. Lyndsey Hammersley stole £202.83 worth of items - including meat, coffee, chocolate and baby milk - from Co-op stores in Walsall between April 10 and June 6.
She was also found to have the blade in her possession on June 7.
The offences were committed while she was on licence.
The 28-year-old, of no fixed address, must also pay a victim surcharge of £122.
A 28-year-old has been jailed for sexual assault.
John-Luke Stephens intentionally touched a woman aged 16 or over in Walsall on June 5 without her consent. The 28-year-old, of no fixed address, was sent to prison for 20 weeks and must pay a victim surcharge of £128.
He must also register with the police in accordance with the Sexual Offences Act 2003 for seven years.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
A man who assaulted a police officer twice has been jailed for 14 weeks.
Jack Dalby, of Green Lane, Shelfield, committed the offences in Pelsall and Oldbury on May 13.
He was also sentenced for failing to provide a specimen of breath for analysis during the course of an investigation into whether he had committed an offence.
The 32-year-old, who was subject to a suspended sentence at the time, was given 10 penalty points and must pay £200 compensation and a victim surcharge of £128.
A 25-year-old has been jailed for 28 weeks after he assaulted two police officers.
Thomas Ahern, of Stafford Street, Walsall, was also sentenced for damaging a flat door in Walsall on June 10.
He must pay compensation of £200 and a victim surcharge of £128.
Dudley
A man was handed a community order for assaulting a woman.
Thomas Walsh committed the offence in Wednesbury on June 5. He was also found to be in possession of cannabis.
The 23-year-old, of Fisher Street, Dudley, must carry out 80 hours unpaid work and pay a victim surcharge of £95 and £185 court costs.
A B&M thief has been discharged conditionally for 12 months.
Mohammed Farooq stole beauty products and medicine, worth £58.88, from the Dudley store on June 8.
The 39-year-old, of no fixed address, must pay a victim surcharge of £22.
(Image: Google Street)
A woman who stole from The Range has been jailed for 25 weeks.
Gemma Murphy took bedding, worth £152.94, from the Brierley Hill store on January 27.
The 30-year-old, of White City Road, Quarry Bank, also failed to surrender to custody at Dudley Magistrates' Court on March 3, having been released on bail.
Murphy was also sentenced for obstructing a police officer in the execution of his duty in Oldbury on March 11 and stealing items, worth more than £151, from Boots in Cape Hill between February 16 and March 11.
She must pay a victim surcharge of £122.
Wolverhampton
A man who breached a criminal behaviour order was fined £150.
Neil Bowers defied the order - made by Walsall Magistrates' Court on February 27 - by going to Sainsbury's in Raglan Street, Wolverhampton, on June 7.
The 54-year-old, of no fixed address, must also pay a victim surcharge of £34.
West Bromwich
A 52-year-old has been given a suspended sentence for stealing from B&M.
Mark Williams helped himself to £7.43 worth of alcohol from the Wolverhampton store on June 8. The 'prolific offender' was handed an 18 week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.
He was also given a one month curfew and for the duration must remain at his home address between 4pm and 4am. Williams, of Thynne Street, West Bromwich, must pay a victim surcharge of £128 and £135 court costs.
A man has been fined £250 for being drunk and disorderly. Kevin Lightfoot committed the offence in Walsall Road, West Bromwich, on June 9.
The 53-year-old, of Chartley Road, West Bromwich, must pay a victim surcharge of £32 and £135 court costs.
Cradley Heath
A man who stole and used a woman's bank card has been handed a suspended sentence.
Paul Cross took his victim's bank card and purse, worth £60, in Cradley Heath on June 6. The 43-year-old then committed fraud by using the stolen debit card to obtain goods.
He was given a 35 week prison sentence, suspended for 16 months.
Cross, of High Street, Cradley Heath, was also given a two month curfew and for the duration must remain at his home address between 3pm and 3am.
He must also pay £200 compensation and £185 court costs.


birminghammail--2020-06-13--'100 days at war' - the story of coronavirus in Birmingham so far

In late February , a business worker from Birmingham attended a conference in another city , mingling freely with contacts , no doubt shaking hands and sitting close with colleagues .
A few days later , relaxing at home and trying to stifle an emerging cough , they got a call from a Covid contact tracer .
The contact tracer was calling to let them know they were on a list of attendees at the conference - and someone there had fallen ill with coronavirus .
Within hours they had been tested and , soon after that , Birmingham had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was the start of a 100 day journey that brings us to this day , Saturday June 13 .
Since that first case , the city and region have been changed , in some ways forever , and there is as yet no end in sight .
By the end of May a total of 1,148 people had died in Birmingham , and another 339 people from Sandwell also lost their lives to the virus .
Most of those who died - 1,130 - were in hospital when they passed away ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where they were residents .
The area has also seen a shocking rise in excess deaths from other causes not listed as Covid .
Thousands are out of work or on furlough , while offices , factories and shops stand empty .
Businesses have collapsed and charities are on the edge .
Lockdown is beginning to ease , allowing some businesses and shops to reopen .
Some primary school kids are back in their classrooms , under strict social distancing rules , while some families and friends are beginning to meet up .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in parks and gardens , and trysts with lovers are all beginning to become part of life again .
But we are not out of the woods yet .
A second wave is 'inevitable ' , say scientists - and our behaviour now will determine not whether it comes , but how big it is .
Dr Justin Varney , the city 's public health director , said nothing has changed about the infectiousness or deadliness of the virus since he announced to the world that Birmingham had its first positive case , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules then still hold true - keep your social distance from others , wash your hands regularly and do not touch your face , he said .
`` I remember saying at the start that this would be a marathon not a sprint .
I 'm not a marathon runner but I know you keep a steady pace , and that it requires stamina . ''
But calling it a marathon was an understatement , he said .
`` This has been a war , with battles on the frontline , local skirmishes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ending onslaught .
And it is not over yet . ''
`` We can not magic Covid away , '' said Dr Varney , who has become the city 's go-to expert on the virus .
`` The virus has not changed , nor gone away . ''
Are we unlocking too quickly , while there are still reports of new infections , and while the Test , Trace and Isolate regime is still in its infancy ?
Dr Varney is sympathetic to those concerns - indeed , he has responsibility for coordinating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Test and Trace , and has been frustrated that he 's yet to see the local data and funding he needs to get on with this .
But , he says : `` The line the government is walking is a very difficult one .
By relaxing lockdown they will save jobs - and that could ultimately save lives too .
`` The very blunt reality is that saving lives in the short term ( by continuing with lockdown indefinitely ) may cost lives in the long term .
`` But allowing some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases and a second wave .
`` There are some real challenges ahead . ''
He added : `` We are going into this phase with lots of unknowns still about this virus - better clinical treatments and a vaccine are our only hope . ''
The Story So Far The progress of the virus was rapid after the emergence of the first case in the city , on March 5 , and subsequent cases in neighbouring Sandwell , Walsall , Dudley , Wolverhampton and Solihull .
Our timeline below takes you through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - open by clicking on it if not automatically visible .
By March 13 , any hopes of containing the virus had been abandoned .
Hundreds of patients were moved out of acute beds in a bid to free up space for the expected influx of Covid patients .
They were discharged to community hospitals and care homes in a gargantuan effort to 'protect the NHS' Care homes were beginning to close their doors to visitors in a bid to protect vulnerable residents Shops were being raided , with loo roll , hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lists .
There was furious panic buying , and an equally furious backlash against selfish shoppers .
Parents were beginning to keep their kids off school , not prepared to wait for an official shutdown that eventually came 10 days later .
Access to vital Personal Protective Equipment ( PPE ) was being coordinated by the NHS centrally but there were already growing murmurs of concern about its availability in local hospitals and care settings Across Birmingham , community groups and charities joined forces to prepare for what was ahead .
Neighbours made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coordinate activity .
By March 13 , there had been two deaths from the virus in Birmingham and Sandwell - but more and more people were falling ill .
In the days that followed , large gatherings were banned and we were all encouraged to keep our social distance .
GP surgeries were beginning to close , instead providing online consultations , along with dentists and non urgent health care settings .
Get togethers were heavily restricted , setting the scene for one of the most heartbreaking impacts of the virus - near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and pubs and restaurants were reconciled to their fate ; a locked down Spring .
Birmingham City Council and its neighbours embarked on an epic mission to ensure all homeless people were protected , putting hundreds into temporary accommodation and taking over a city centre hotel for rough sleepers .
Specialist teams also worked together to put in protective measures and support other vulnerable groups , including drug addicts and sex workers .
In Birmingham , the annual St Patrick 's Day parade was cancelled .
Due to be held on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took the heart breaking decision to postpone it .
The city 's spiritual leaders also coordinated closures of all places of worship to protect their congregations .
For Birmingham Central Mosque , it was the first time that prayer services were not held in 50 years .
Muslim communities have since had to endure a muted Ramadan and Eid celebrations , practising their faith and celebrating at home .
Other faith communities have had to miss out on traditional gatherings including Easter .
Amid all this frenzied activity , plans to ramp up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision that has since come under scrutiny and attracted critics , particularly as we now fight to establish Test and Trace systems 'from zero ' .
Lockdown came on March 23 .
In a televised address , Boris Johnson told us lockdown was being implemented .
The message was clear : Stay Home .
Save Lives .
Protect the NHS .
That delay in lockdown has now come under intense scrutiny , amid claims that there was a lost opportunity that could potentially have spared lives .
Members of the inner circle of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of the independent SAGE alternative group , have variously protested it was a mistake to delay lockdown .
Some said so at the time ; others have said so with the benefit of hindsight .
But Boris Johnson insisted he was `` following the science '' by holding off lockdown until he did so , in dramatic fashion , on March 23 - as our live coverage at the time reveals .
Once lockdown was implemented , our coverage focussed on two aspects of city life - tracking the disease and its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by city communities to look after each other .
The city 's streets were all but empty ; bird song punctuated the early morning instead of the thrum of commuter traffic .
Cyclists , walkers and runners took over the pavements normally thronging with shoppers , and an uneasy peace prevailed .
Police were out in numbers enforcing the 'stay home ' restrictions , issuing penalty fines to anyone flouting the law .
One city MP , Tahir Ali , was given a police warning after being among around 100 mourners who broke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a cemetery to pray for a friend who had died .
We launched # brumkind as a hashtag and message to encourage people to celebrate what was being done to help the vulnerable and raise spirits .
We teamed up with Heart of England Community Foundation to deliver grants to community groups and charities across the region to support the incredible Covid-19 emergency response .
Organisations like the Birmingham Voluntary Services Council ( BCVS ) and city foodbanks were at the heart of efforts to keep the most vulnerable safe and fed - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And sadly , tragically , people were dying , communities were in mourning , and the pressure on our hospitals and our care homes was beginning to tell .
Inside our hospitals , the cases began to rise , peaking in the first and second weeks of April .
At its peak , the number of Covid patients being treated at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust ( UHB ) sites topped 700 .
On its blackest day , April 5 , some 37 people died in its hospitals .
In all , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Covid-19 ( up to June 11 ) .
In neighbouring Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust , the death toll has reached 237 .
It was not just inside hospitals that a battle was under way .
Care homes and the social care sector were also experiencing desperate levels of loss .
Infections broke out in more than a third of care homes , with more than 200 residents dying in the care homes where they lived from Covid-19 .
Many more care home residents were among those who died in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inside care homes as we spoke to carers and relatives about the unfolding crisis .
Care home managers told us how abandoned they felt .
While all eyes were on protecting the NHS , many were fighting a losing battle to save their vulnerable residents .
`` It is terrifying , '' care boss Ann Willey told us .
She manages a home with 76 frail and elderly residents in Yardley Wood .
Between early March and the end of April , 18 of the residents at her home died - with four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tony Davies , whose darling wife Sue died there , said : `` The care homes have been abandoned and forgotten , as if the lives in there do n't matter as much .
All the focus was on the NHS only , not on care homes where old people live . ''
We later exclusively revealed how many Covid-positive people and patients who had never been tested were discharged out of hospitals into care homes in the city during March and April , amid fears that infection was unwittingly seeded into care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April , stories continued to emerge about a lack of PPE ( personal protective equipment ) .
We learned how nurses at one hospital were making their own protective visors out of strips of foam and laminate ; we spoke to care homes relying on home-made masks .
Local councils and the West Midlands Combined Authority coordinated efforts with businesses to manufacture PPE and donate supplies , while political leaders fired off angry letters about the appalling state of affairs , with frontline staff left unprotected and in fear .
The social care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , reflects Dr Varney .
`` We were given assurances that the supply of PPE to the NHS was for social care too but it quickly became apparent that was not the case .
Social care was on its own . ''
It was a symptom of the 'multiple tiered ' health and social care system in our country that was badly exposed over Covid-19 , he adds .
The story of one West Midlands police officer 's battle with Covid-19 played out in public view .
Chief Supt Phil Dolby was sharing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of March how he was struggling to breath and an ambulance was on its way .
He went on to spend 26 days in hospital at Worcestershire Royal , including a fortnight in intensive care .
He is now easing back into work , forever grateful for the NHS colleagues who saved him .
The story of one nurse , Asreema Nareen , from Walsall , touched hearts here and across the country .
Aged just 36 , she succumbed to the virus on April 3 .
In the weeks that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help others - including mental health specialist Lillian Mudzivare , neonatologist Dr Rishna Rasiah and midwife Safaa Alam .
Signs also quickly emerged about an unequal impact of the virus on black , Asian and minority ethnic people .
Evidence has mounted up since and it has become an unquestionable reality - being black or Asian puts you at higher risk of death from Covid-19 .
Cllr Paulette Hamilton , Birmingham 's lead cabinet member for health and social care , has spearheaded efforts locally to establish why that is - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Efforts persist to get to the bottom of the causes and help local communities better protect each other in the weeks ahead .
A local inquiry has been launched to gather testimonies to feed into a Labour party review chaired by equalities activist Baroness Doreen Lawrence , mother of Stephen .
A government review , led by Public Health England , was published at the start of June but was heavily criticised for failing to include any recommendations .
It has since emerged that an accompanying report outlining a series of recommendations was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Department of Health and Social Care .
It also quickly emerged that men are at higher risk from the virus and dying at higher rates than women - and men who work in certain jobs are even more susceptible , as our graphic below reveals .
Security guards and taxi drivers are among the worst affected .
Amid the heartache and pain we have also celebrated the positive efforts , the fun and the quirky .
It turned out that Brummies do n't seem to mind queueing , thankfully , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ From queueing up to get into the supermarkets , to joining a line for fish and chips ; from the queue to get into Ikea , to sitting patiently in a four hour traffic jam to get rid of rubbish , there 's been a lot of waiting during lockdown .
Fundraising and entertainment have gone hand in hand - it started with Captain Tom Moore 's incredible £23 million walk for the NHS , and we have celebrated endeavours closer to home , like this garden marathon runner .
A group of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brennan , launched Brum Baby Bank - one of hundreds of community schemes to help out those in need .
The 75th anniversary of VE Day saw thousands join in distanced community celebrations , with people raising a glass on their driveways .
From Monday , more restrictions are eased and something close to a new normal is beginning to emerge .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed , from Monday , June 15 , that non-essential stores across the country can swing open their doors for customers .
Shoppers can visit The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre issuing a full list of stores set to be operating again come Monday .
Elsewhere , Solihull shoppers can head along to Touchwood , which has also revealed which retailers are opening for custom on June 15 .
And there 's also good news for those in the Black County , with intu Merry Hill also back in operation from next week too !
The Mailbox is also reopening , with news of its stores available here .
We also have news on M & S , HMV , Primark , Game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , safari parks and outdoor cinemas could open from Monday ( June 15 ) as the country takes tentative steps to restart is leisure and hospitality industry .
Wear masks on public transport and in hospitals From Monday , it will be compulsory to wear a face on public transport OR if you are visiting a hospital .
If you forget , do n't worry : British Transport Police will be manning stations on Monday to issue pleasant reminders .
All hospital visitors and outpatients will also need to wear face coverings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as of June 15 .
There will be exemptions to the rules for very young children , disabled people and those with breathing difficulties .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said face coverings could be made at home - and urged people not to seek out the type of face masks used in hospitals .
Places of worship can open for private prayer Churches and other places of worship are set to open for private prayer from June 15 .
Individuals will be able to `` reflect and pray '' while adhering to social-distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other services will still not be permitted .
Communal prayer will not be permitted until July 4 at the earliest , the government has said .
The next 100 day milestone will come on September 21 By then , we might be further removed from lockdown , or we might be back indoors again .
Whatever our future holds , keep being # brumkind and follow Government guidance .
Follow us on Twitter here .
If you are on Facebook follow us here and if you use Instagram follow us here

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In late February, a business worker from Birmingham attended a conference in another city, mingling freely with contacts, no doubt shaking hands and sitting close with colleagues.
A few days later, relaxing at home and trying to stifle an emerging cough, they got a call from a Covid contact tracer.
The contact tracer was calling to let them know they were on a list of attendees at the conference - and someone there had fallen ill with coronavirus.
Within hours they had been tested and, soon after that, Birmingham had its first official case of Covid-19.
It was the start of a 100 day journey that brings us to this day, Saturday June 13.
Since that first case, the city and region have been changed, in some ways forever, and there is as yet no end in sight.
By the end of May a total of 1,148 people had died in Birmingham, and another 339 people from Sandwell also lost their lives to the virus.
Most of those who died - 1,130 - were in hospital when they passed away; another 230 died in the care homes where they were residents.
The area has also seen a shocking rise in excess deaths from other causes not listed as Covid.
Thousands are out of work or on furlough, while offices, factories and shops stand empty. Businesses have collapsed and charities are on the edge.
Lockdown is beginning to ease, allowing some businesses and shops to reopen. Some primary school kids are back in their classrooms, under strict social distancing rules, while some families and friends are beginning to meet up.
Picnics and barbecues, socially distanced visits in parks and gardens, and trysts with lovers are all beginning to become part of life again.
But we are not out of the woods yet.
A second wave is 'inevitable', say scientists - and our behaviour now will determine not whether it comes, but how big it is.
Dr Justin Varney, the city's public health director, said nothing has changed about the infectiousness or deadliness of the virus since he announced to the world that Birmingham had its first positive case, back on March 5.
The golden rules then still hold true - keep your social distance from others, wash your hands regularly and do not touch your face, he said.
"I remember saying at the start that this would be a marathon not a sprint. I'm not a marathon runner but I know you keep a steady pace, and that it requires stamina."
But calling it a marathon was an understatement, he said.
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"This has been a war, with battles on the frontline, local skirmishes with the virus and periods of never ending onslaught. And it is not over yet."
"We cannot magic Covid away," said Dr Varney, who has become the city's go-to expert on the virus. "The virus has not changed, nor gone away."
Are we unlocking too quickly, while there are still reports of new infections, and while the Test, Trace and Isolate regime is still in its infancy?
Dr Varney is sympathetic to those concerns - indeed, he has responsibility for coordinating the response to any local outbreaks through Test and Trace, and has been frustrated that he's yet to see the local data and funding he needs to get on with this.
But, he says: "The line the government is walking is a very difficult one. By relaxing lockdown they will save jobs - and that could ultimately save lives too.
"The very blunt reality is that saving lives in the short term (by continuing with lockdown indefinitely) may cost lives in the long term.
"But allowing some economic recovery will likely lead to more cases and a second wave.
"There are some real challenges ahead."
He added: "We are going into this phase with lots of unknowns still about this virus - better clinical treatments and a vaccine are our only hope."
The Story So Far
The progress of the virus was rapid after the emergence of the first case in the city, on March 5, and subsequent cases in neighbouring Sandwell, Walsall, Dudley, Wolverhampton and Solihull.
Our timeline below takes you through those first days up to mid March - open by clicking on it if not automatically visible.
Time Line The first 100 days: from first case to lockdown January 31: First cases of Covid-19 in the UK Two positive cases of Covid-19 are confirmed in York. At this stage, transmission is thought to wholly come from travellers arriving into the UK. It was to be more than a month before the first case was reported in the West Midlands. March 3: Government unveils Coronavirus action plan The plan of action is unveiled - with Chief Medical Officer Prof Chris Whitty telling the nation: "There is no need at this stage to be stocking up on anything. This is going to be a marathon not a sprint." In words that were to come back to haunt him, he said that, even for high-risk age groups, catching coronavirus did not mean you would be "a goner". He said that firstly "we intend to do what we can to make sure that they are the group that is least affected, as far as we can. "So, I think it's easy to get a perception that if you are older and you get this virus then you're a goner - absolutely not, the great majority of people will recover from this virus, even if they are in their 80s." DAY ONE: March 5 - First positive case in Birmingham is reported One person 'of working age' is in hospital in Birmingham after being diagnosed with coronavirus, we learned at a media conference in the city. No age or gender was given. The person tested positive for the virus the day before and was 'in hospital in isolation with respiratory symptoms that are not deemed serious'. The person is believed to have been in contact with a known case. They are believed to have picked up the strain while attending a conference outside the city. March 5: "Don't panic" message from Birmingham's public health director 'We can't disinfect the world - but you can wash your hands well, stop touching your face and stop greeting with a kiss.' Those were the key messages from Dr Justin Varney, Director of Public Health at Birmingham City Council after confirming the first case in the city of coronavirus. He urged people not to panic or worry unduly, particularly as the case was 'contained' and highly unlikely to trigger other cases - but said more cases were inevitable. "We know that cases are coming. This case is a low risk incident because of the nature of the transmission and low level of contact, which is great news for us. "But there will be more cases coming." He also urged people to refrain from greeting "European style" with two kisses. Birmingham City Council revealed it was prepared - and was part of city and region wide groups of partner organisations ready to confront the virus and protect lives. First cases emerge in Sandwell, Walsall, Solihull and Wolverhampton By the end of March there are live cases across Birmingham and the Black Country, including the first case in Sandwell and the first cases in Wolverhampton and Walsall. Solihull's first case was reported on March 20. March 10: launch of community testing drive thru centres Drive thru testing sites start to appear in the West Midlands, including one in Wolverhampton which is among the first in the country. It is part of the Government's 'test and trace' approach to keeping a lid on the virus while it remains limited. The Government pledge to ramp up testing to 10,000 tests a day. March 12: Risk level raised to high; containment phase over The Government raises the risk rating to HIGH, and confirms the containment phase of tackling the virus is over. In a statement, still viewable on the gov.uk website here, they said there would not yet be a lockdown, saying instead: "In the coming weeks, we will be introducing further social distancing measures for older and vulnerable people, asking them to self-isolate regardless of symptoms. "If we introduce this next stage too early, the measures will not protect us at the time of greatest risk but could have a huge social impact. "We need to time this properly, continue to do the right thing at the right time, so we get the maximum effect for delaying the virus. We will clearly announce when we ask the public to move to this next stage." They added: "Our decisions are based on careful modelling. We will only introduce measures that are supported by clinical and scientific evidence." They also announce the community testing plans unveiled just days earlier were now abandoned and the focus would be on hospital testing. March 13: Birmingham's annual St Patrick's Day parade is cancelled The hugely popular St Patrick's Day arade and celebration, led by the city's Irish community, is cancelled amid fears it could cause a spike in infections. Festival chair Peter Connolly said: “We are devastated to share this news with you, however, we are committed to providing our city with a belated St Patrick’s celebration that we can all be proud of later in the year." March 23: Lockdown is announced by Boris Johnson The most significant set of restrictions in living memory are imposed on British people. The PM orders people to stay at home in a bid to stop the coronavirus outbreak and warned that the police would be called in to enforce it. Businesses were ordered to close - among them retailers, pubs and restaurants.
By March 13, any hopes of containing the virus had been abandoned.
Hundreds of patients were moved out of acute beds in a bid to free up space for the expected influx of Covid patients. They were discharged to community hospitals and care homes in a gargantuan effort to 'protect the NHS'
Care homes were beginning to close their doors to visitors in a bid to protect vulnerable residents
Shops were being raided, with loo roll, hand sanitiser and pasta top of the shopping lists. There was furious panic buying, and an equally furious backlash against selfish shoppers.
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Parents were beginning to keep their kids off school, not prepared to wait for an official shutdown that eventually came 10 days later.
Access to vital Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was being coordinated by the NHS centrally but there were already growing murmurs of concern about its availability in local hospitals and care settings
Across Birmingham, community groups and charities joined forces to prepare for what was ahead. Neighbours made plans; local activists met up to coordinate activity.
By March 13, there had been two deaths from the virus in Birmingham and Sandwell - but more and more people were falling ill.
In the days that followed, large gatherings were banned and we were all encouraged to keep our social distance.
GP surgeries were beginning to close, instead providing online consultations, along with dentists and non urgent health care settings. Get togethers were heavily restricted, setting the scene for one of the most heartbreaking impacts of the virus - near empty funerals.
Venues began to shut, and pubs and restaurants were reconciled to their fate; a locked down Spring.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Birmingham City Council and its neighbours embarked on an epic mission to ensure all homeless people were protected, putting hundreds into temporary accommodation and taking over a city centre hotel for rough sleepers.
Specialist teams also worked together to put in protective measures and support other vulnerable groups, including drug addicts and sex workers.
In Birmingham, the annual St Patrick's Day parade was cancelled. Due to be held on the weekend of March 15, the organisers took the heart breaking decision to postpone it.
The city's spiritual leaders also coordinated closures of all places of worship to protect their congregations.
For Birmingham Central Mosque, it was the first time that prayer services were not held in 50 years.
Muslim communities have since had to endure a muted Ramadan and Eid celebrations, practising their faith and celebrating at home. Other faith communities have had to miss out on traditional gatherings including Easter.
Amid all this frenzied activity, plans to ramp up testing were mothballed. It was a decision that has since come under scrutiny and attracted critics,particularly as we now fight to establish Test and Trace systems 'from zero'.
Into Lockdown
Lockdown came on March 23. In a televised address, Boris Johnson told us lockdown was being implemented. The message was clear: Stay Home. Save Lives. Protect the NHS.
That delay in lockdown has now come under intense scrutiny, amid claims that there was a lost opportunity that could potentially have spared lives.
Members of the inner circle of scientists, known as SAGE, and members of the independent SAGE alternative group, have variously protested it was a mistake to delay lockdown. Some said so at the time; others have said so with the benefit of hindsight.
But Boris Johnson insisted he was "following the science" by holding off lockdown until he did so, in dramatic fashion, on March 23 - as our live coverage at the time reveals.
Once lockdown was implemented, our coverage focussed on two aspects of city life - tracking the disease and its impact; and celebrating the incredible efforts by city communities to look after each other.
The city's streets were all but empty; bird song punctuated the early morning instead of the thrum of commuter traffic.
Cyclists, walkers and runners took over the pavements normally thronging with shoppers, and an uneasy peace prevailed.
Police were out in numbers enforcing the 'stay home' restrictions, issuing penalty fines to anyone flouting the law.
One city MP, Tahir Ali, was given a police warning after being among around 100 mourners who broke lockdown to gather at the gates of a cemetery to pray for a friend who had died.
We launched #brumkind as a hashtag and message to encourage people to celebrate what was being done to help the vulnerable and raise spirits.
We teamed up with Heart of England Community Foundation to deliver grants to community groups and charities across the region to support the incredible Covid-19 emergency response.
Organisations like the Birmingham Voluntary Services Council (BCVS) and city foodbanks were at the heart of efforts to keep the most vulnerable safe and fed - but it never felt like enough.
And sadly, tragically, people were dying, communities were in mourning, and the pressure on our hospitals and our care homes was beginning to tell.
Inside our hospitals, the cases began to rise, peaking in the first and second weeks of April.
At its peak, the number of Covid patients being treated at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust (UHB) sites topped 700.
On its blackest day, April 5, some 37 people died in its hospitals.
In all, the UHB hospitals have seen 936 people die from Covid-19 (up to June 11). In neighbouring Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, the death toll has reached 237.
It was not just inside hospitals that a battle was under way. Care homes and the social care sector were also experiencing desperate levels of loss.
Infections broke out in more than a third of care homes, with more than 200 residents dying in the care homes where they lived from Covid-19. Many more care home residents were among those who died in hospital.
Throughout April stories emerged from inside care homes as we spoke to carers and relatives about the unfolding crisis.
Care home managers told us how abandoned they felt. While all eyes were on protecting the NHS, many were fighting a losing battle to save their vulnerable residents.
"It is terrifying," care boss Ann Willey told us. She manages a home with 76 frail and elderly residents in Yardley Wood. Between early March and the end of April, 18 of the residents at her home died - with four deaths directly linked to coronavirus.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Relative Tony Davies, whose darling wife Sue died there, said: "The care homes have been abandoned and forgotten, as if the lives in there don't matter as much. All the focus was on the NHS only, not on care homes where old people live."
We later exclusively revealed how many Covid-positive people and patients who had never been tested were discharged out of hospitals into care homes in the city during March and April, amid fears that infection was unwittingly seeded into care homes through them.
Throughout March and April, stories continued to emerge about a lack of PPE (personal protective equipment).
We learned how nurses at one hospital were making their own protective visors out of strips of foam and laminate; we spoke to care homes relying on home-made masks.
Local councils and the West Midlands Combined Authority coordinated efforts with businesses to manufacture PPE and donate supplies, while political leaders fired off angry letters about the appalling state of affairs, with frontline staff left unprotected and in fear.
The social care sector was definitely let down over PPE, reflects Dr Varney. "We were given assurances that the supply of PPE to the NHS was for social care too but it quickly became apparent that was not the case. Social care was on its own."
It was a symptom of the 'multiple tiered' health and social care system in our country that was badly exposed over Covid-19, he adds.
The story of one West Midlands police officer's battle with Covid-19 played out in public view. Chief Supt Phil Dolby was sharing updates after falling ill, tweeting at the end of March how he was struggling to breath and an ambulance was on its way.
He went on to spend 26 days in hospital at Worcestershire Royal, including a fortnight in intensive care. He is now easing back into work, forever grateful for the NHS colleagues who saved him.
The story of one nurse, Asreema Nareen, from Walsall, touched hearts here and across the country. Aged just 36, she succumbed to the virus on April 3.
In the weeks that followed more frontline workers died while trying to help others - including mental health specialist Lillian Mudzivare, neonatologist Dr Rishna Rasiah and midwife Safaa Alam.
Signs also quickly emerged about an unequal impact of the virus on black, Asian and minority ethnic people.
Evidence has mounted up since and it has become an unquestionable reality - being black or Asian puts you at higher risk of death from Covid-19.
Cllr Paulette Hamilton, Birmingham's lead cabinet member for health and social care, has spearheaded efforts locally to establish why that is - and what can be done about it.
Efforts persist to get to the bottom of the causes and help local communities better protect each other in the weeks ahead.
A local inquiry has been launched to gather testimonies to feed into a Labour party review chaired by equalities activist Baroness Doreen Lawrence, mother of Stephen.
A government review, led by Public Health England, was published at the start of June but was heavily criticised for failing to include any recommendations.
It has since emerged that an accompanying report outlining a series of recommendations was submitted by Public Health England but suppressed by the Department of Health and Social Care.
It also quickly emerged that men are at higher risk from the virus and dying at higher rates than women - and men who work in certain jobs are even more susceptible, as our graphic below reveals.
Security guards and taxi drivers are among the worst affected.
Amid the heartache and pain we have also celebrated the positive efforts, the fun and the quirky.
It turned out that Brummies don't seem to mind queueing, thankfully, as there have been plenty of opportunities.
From queueing up to get into the supermarkets, to joining a line for fish and chips; from the queue to get into Ikea, to sitting patiently in a four hour traffic jam to get rid of rubbish, there's been a lot of waiting during lockdown.
Fundraising and entertainment have gone hand in hand - it started with Captain Tom Moore's incredible £23 million walk for the NHS, and we have celebrated endeavours closer to home, like this garden marathon runner.
A group of mums and supporters, led by Nicky Brennan, launched Brum Baby Bank - one of hundreds of community schemes to help out those in need.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
The 75th anniversary of VE Day saw thousands join in distanced community celebrations, with people raising a glass on their driveways.
From Monday, more restrictions are eased and something close to a new normal is beginning to emerge.
Shops are opening
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed, from Monday, June 15, that non-essential stores across the country can swing open their doors for customers.
Shoppers can visit The Bullring in Birmingham, with the shopping centre issuing a full list of stores set to be operating again come Monday.
Get ready for life after lockdown by joining the #IAmOpen community Business owners can get ready for life after lockdown by joining BirminghamLive's #IAmOpen community. Do you run a firm or business in Birmingham, the Black Country or wider West Midlands? Join the community for access to lots of FREE tools to help stabilise your business and start making up for lost time. The community is just one newsletter sign up away. As part of our #IAmOpen community to help and support small businesses owners like you, you will get a regular newsletter from our journalists plus we'll let you know how you can: get exclusive access to business webinars
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Elsewhere, Solihull shoppers can head along to Touchwood, which has also revealed which retailers are opening for custom on June 15.
And there's also good news for those in the Black County, with intu Merry Hill also back in operation from next week too!
The Mailbox is also reopening, with news of its stores available here.
We also have news on M&S, HMV, Primark, Game and Lush 's opening times.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
Zoos and outdoor cinemas
Zoos, safari parks and outdoor cinemas could open from Monday (June 15) as the country takes tentative steps to restart is leisure and hospitality industry.
Wear masks on public transport and in hospitals
From Monday, it will be compulsory to wear a face on public transport OR if you are visiting a hospital.
If you forget, don't worry: British Transport Police will be manning stations on Monday to issue pleasant reminders.
All hospital visitors and outpatients will also need to wear face coverings, and hospital staff must use surgical masks as of June 15.
There will be exemptions to the rules for very young children, disabled people and those with breathing difficulties.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said face coverings could be made at home - and urged people not to seek out the type of face masks used in hospitals.
For a full guide, click here.
Places of worship can open for private prayer
Churches and other places of worship are set to open for private prayer from June 15.
Individuals will be able to "reflect and pray" while adhering to social-distancing rules - but worship groups, weddings and other services will still not be permitted.
Communal prayer will not be permitted until July 4 at the earliest, the government has said.
The next 100 day milestone will come on September 21
By then, we might be further removed from lockdown, or we might be back indoors again.
Whatever our future holds, keep being #brumkind and follow Government guidance.
Follow us on Twitter here. If you are on Facebook follow us here and if you use Instagram follow us here


birminghammail--2020-06-13--Wolves-linked Thiago to be given free transfer this summer

Thiago Silva , the Brazilian defender who has been linked with a move to Wolves and Arsenal this summer , will become a free agent before next season begins .
Paris Saint Germain sporting director Leonardo has confirmed that both veteran Thiago and colleague Edison Cavani will be leaving the Ligue 1 champions once their deals expire at the end of August .
Thiago has been in the French capital since 2012 , after arriving from AC Milan , and in that time he ’ s lifted a remarkable 21 trophies .
Striker Cavani , meanwhile , arrived a year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ managed to score 200 goals for PSG .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Now they look for the next chapters of their careers , with speculation mounting recently that Thiago has interest from England in the form of Wolves and Arsenal .
Confirming that the pair were to be leaving Paris , Leonardo thanked Thiago and Cavani for their service .
“ Cavani and Thiago Silva ?
Yes , we are coming to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Journal de Dimanche .
“ The idea is to continue playing with them until the end of August .
“ It was a very difficult decision to make ; these are players who have marked the history of the club .
Their stories were so beautiful , but yes , we are coming to the end .
“ We had to make a logical decision , economically speaking and with regard to the generation that is coming through .
“ Maybe we are wrong , I do not know , there is never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League is still in sight and the idea is to continue competing with them until the end of August .
How it can be done is not yet clear [ legally ] .
”

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Thiago Silva, the Brazilian defender who has been linked with a move to Wolves and Arsenal this summer, will become a free agent before next season begins.
Paris Saint Germain sporting director Leonardo has confirmed that both veteran Thiago and colleague Edison Cavani will be leaving the Ligue 1 champions once their deals expire at the end of August.
Thiago has been in the French capital since 2012, after arriving from AC Milan, and in that time he’s lifted a remarkable 21 trophies.
Striker Cavani, meanwhile, arrived a year later but in that time since he managed to score 200 goals for PSG.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Now they look for the next chapters of their careers, with speculation mounting recently that Thiago has interest from England in the form of Wolves and Arsenal.
Confirming that the pair were to be leaving Paris, Leonardo thanked Thiago and Cavani for their service.
“Cavani and Thiago Silva? Yes, we are coming to the end,” Leonardo told the Journal de Dimanche. “The idea is to continue playing with them until the end of August.
“It was a very difficult decision to make; these are players who have marked the history of the club. Their stories were so beautiful, but yes, we are coming to the end.
“We had to make a logical decision, economically speaking and with regard to the generation that is coming through.
“Maybe we are wrong, I do not know, there is never a perfect moment. Now the Champions League is still in sight and the idea is to continue competing with them until the end of August. How it can be done is not yet clear [legally].”


birminghammail--2020-06-13--Dean Smith previews Aston Villa vs Sheffield United

Aston Villa will face familiar opponents once Project Restart gets underway on June 17 .
Villa will kick-off the season - again - against Sheffield United , as Dean Smith gets to grips once more with Chris Wilder 's high-flying Blades .
Of course - the fixture in itself was n't much of a surprise for Smith , who cottoned onto the idea that the game in hand may come first .
`` I had the idea that the Premier League would put Villa vs Sheffield United & Manchester City vs Arsenal as the first game to even the league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to VILLATV .
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Google Play Store and App Store As the game-in-hand , the fixture has a great deal of importance .
While the current health situation in the UK improves - despite a catastrophic death toll - there is every chance the situation could worsen and the league be settled without playing out fixtures .
Smith knows they must crack on and win - to avoid being caught out .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if we win that game - and it 's a big if because Sheffield United have had a fantastic season - we 're out of the bottom three and level on games with everyone else .
We have to go and win that game . ''
But what of The Blades ?
Who have made a robust , yet attractive , style their calling card ?
Smith does n't expect many changes from the last time they played , when Villa left Bramall Lane with a bloodied nose .
`` I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I know Chris [ Wilder ] and Alan [ Knill ] .
They 'll have the players geared up the same as earlier in the season .
`` It 's a brand new start for them .
They are like us .
We 've all had twelve weeks off without football and the fact that no fans are there is going to be different for everybody .
It 's how people will cope with that .
`` They have been together as group a long time .
This team is three years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good understanding of what they do . ''
Changes of course , will be enforced - and one big change will be the lack of supporters - an aspect that Smith highlights .
`` Watching the Bundesliga games there has certainly been a drop in tempo of the games .
Sheffield United want a good tempo themselves , so they will have to make sure that comes from themselves , '' added Smith , expecting the Blades ' pace .
`` I think the Bundesliga - you see the results when there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it affects you .
Villa Park is our home .
We are trying to stick to normality as much as we can given the protocol . ''
However , Smith has worked with Villa staff to ensure that a home game in the age of COVID-19 is still a home game , and they have tricks up their sleeve .
`` We 'll get fan noise , but when we walk out the tunnel it 's all claret & blue .
Players know it is our home .
I believe colours and flags @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the speakers .
We want to make it a home game without supporters .
`` I think before the break , when it ended - we were thankful .
We 've had twelve weeks to adapt .
We know the Premier League now , a lot more .
We had a small amount of time to change things in the summer - but a bigger period now to make sure we are right for when that season starts . ''

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Aston Villa will face familiar opponents once Project Restart gets underway on June 17.
Villa will kick-off the season - again - against Sheffield United, as Dean Smith gets to grips once more with Chris Wilder's high-flying Blades.
Of course - the fixture in itself wasn't much of a surprise for Smith, who cottoned onto the idea that the game in hand may come first.
"I had the idea that the Premier League would put Villa vs Sheffield United & Manchester City vs Arsenal as the first game to even the league up," said the head coach to VILLATV.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
As the game-in-hand, the fixture has a great deal of importance. While the current health situation in the UK improves - despite a catastrophic death toll - there is every chance the situation could worsen and the league be settled without playing out fixtures.
Smith knows they must crack on and win - to avoid being caught out.
"As I've said all along, if we win that game - and it's a big if because Sheffield United have had a fantastic season - we're out of the bottom three and level on games with everyone else. We have to go and win that game."
But what of The Blades? Who have made a robust, yet attractive, style their calling card? Smith doesn't expect many changes from the last time they played, when Villa left Bramall Lane with a bloodied nose.
"I'm expecting the same as [December]. I know Chris [Wilder] and Alan [Knill]. They'll have the players geared up the same as earlier in the season.
"It's a brand new start for them. They are like us. We've all had twelve weeks off without football and the fact that no fans are there is going to be different for everybody. It's how people will cope with that.
"They have been together as group a long time. This team is three years in the making so they have a good understanding of what they do."
Aston Villa's return to action Will kick off in 0 Days 0 Hours 0 minutes 0 Seconds
Changes of course, will be enforced - and one big change will be the lack of supporters - an aspect that Smith highlights.
"Watching the Bundesliga games there has certainly been a drop in tempo of the games. Sheffield United want a good tempo themselves, so they will have to make sure that comes from themselves," added Smith, expecting the Blades' pace.
"I think the Bundesliga - you see the results when there are no supporters there. It's how it affects you. Villa Park is our home. We are trying to stick to normality as much as we can given the protocol."
However, Smith has worked with Villa staff to ensure that a home game in the age of COVID-19 is still a home game, and they have tricks up their sleeve.
"We'll get fan noise, but when we walk out the tunnel it's all claret & blue. Players know it is our home. I believe colours and flags will be up, and noise from the speakers. We want to make it a home game without supporters.
"I think before the break, when it ended - we were thankful. We've had twelve weeks to adapt. We know the Premier League now, a lot more. We had a small amount of time to change things in the summer - but a bigger period now to make sure we are right for when that season starts."


birminghammail--2020-06-13--What we know about Birmingham City's friendly with Wolves

Birmingham City and Wolverhampton Wanderers played out a 1-1 draw at St Andrew ’ s on Saturday as preparations for the restart of the league season intensified .
It ’ s understood that Lukas Jutkiewicz was the scorer for Blues , a goal that came in the first half of proceedings .
The scorer for Wolves isn ’ t clear , though it ’ s understood that the side who competed were largely youthful and the old gold goal came in the dying moments of the game .
Blues also hit the bar on two occasions over the course of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and easy way to stay on top of all the Birmingham City news with our daily newsletter .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Naturally , the result itself does not take precedence for either side here ; the objective for such arrangements are so that the players themselves experience competitive action of sorts to aid the raising of their fitness levels before the serious stuff begins again .
It will have been more than three months by the time either of these sides are back playing , since the coronavirus pandemic halted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the way back in March .
Blues , heading into a clash with rivals West Brom next Saturday , will be led in the final nine games by Spaniard Pep Clotet , before he parts company with the club and his successor is appointed ahead of the new campaign .
Strengthened by the confirmation that Scott Hogan will be staying at Blues for the rest of the campaign , they welcome Hull and Huddersfield after Albion , and then head to promotion hopefuls Fulham .
Wolves , meanwhile , are eyeing Champions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now and the end of the campaign ; they kick things off again with a trip to West Ham United .
They also have Bournemouth , Aston Villa , Sheffield United and Arsenal on the horizon .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Brian Dick, Joseph Chapman)

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Birmingham City and Wolverhampton Wanderers played out a 1-1 draw at St Andrew’s on Saturday as preparations for the restart of the league season intensified.
It’s understood that Lukas Jutkiewicz was the scorer for Blues, a goal that came in the first half of proceedings.
The scorer for Wolves isn’t clear, though it’s understood that the side who competed were largely youthful and the old gold goal came in the dying moments of the game.
Blues also hit the bar on two occasions over the course of the piece.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Naturally, the result itself does not take precedence for either side here; the objective for such arrangements are so that the players themselves experience competitive action of sorts to aid the raising of their fitness levels before the serious stuff begins again.
It will have been more than three months by the time either of these sides are back playing, since the coronavirus pandemic halted the campaign and forced it into suspension all the way back in March.
Blues, heading into a clash with rivals West Brom next Saturday, will be led in the final nine games by Spaniard Pep Clotet, before he parts company with the club and his successor is appointed ahead of the new campaign.
Strengthened by the confirmation that Scott Hogan will be staying at Blues for the rest of the campaign, they welcome Hull and Huddersfield after Albion, and then head to promotion hopefuls Fulham.
Wolves, meanwhile, are eyeing Champions League football under Nuno Espirito Santo between now and the end of the campaign; they kick things off again with a trip to West Ham United.
They also have Bournemouth, Aston Villa, Sheffield United and Arsenal on the horizon.


birminghammail--2020-06-13--What to expect from matchdays as Aston Villa drop Sheffield United hint

It 's all change for Aston Villa - and other Premier League clubs .
The top-tier-twenty are set for a mini-season unlike no other , as they fight for titles , Europe , survival and bragging rights .
Villa 's season now hinges on an epic ten game run , with new rules and regulations to help football progress in the age of the coronavirus .
Dean Smith has highlighted just how different matches will be as his side fights for survival - noting how it 's now 'tournament football ' during an interview earlier today .
There 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store '' It 's like a mini tournament .
Like being away in a World Cup camp and being ready for ten games , we 've got a quick start with four games in 11 days , '' said Dean Smith to VILLATV .
But how will they prepare for the games ?
They are n't just ten normal fixtures after all .
Smith broke down the new normal - one that includes limited team-talks , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sessions .
`` As a home club , we are happy to provide a meal for the opposition .
I think each club has to do that .
If they want - I 'm not sure if Sheffield United are - but we will go to Villa Park to eat .
The players will drive on their own , bring all their own bottles and bags which they have been doing quite regularly , '' added Smith .
`` They have to sit apart eating , they have to follow social distancing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dressing rooms as well , spacing out .
`` We are allowed fifteen minutes together for a team talk in the one dressing room but that is the maximum we can do .
The opposition will be getting changed in some boxes up stairs I think .
We 've made temporary arrangements and that will happen when we go to Newcastle and Liverpool . ''
`` One of the biggest things is that each player after the game is only allowed fifteen minutes of [ physical ] therapy .
Recovery is the biggest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players have to recover quickly and well .
Getting massages , getting ice baths and getting them filled up straight away .
`` There 's a lot of things that have changed .
We 'll give the lads their food to takeaway afterwards .
We 're planning on heading back to Bodymoor Heath after each game and doing recovery there .
`` It 's all big changes , but it will be normality for the next few months and the players are accepting of that . ''
Villa fans will be hoping that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the new normal - one that will place far more demands on him and the Villa staff .
His side are set to face Sheffield United on June 17 in the very first Project Restart fixture , and only once that match concludes will we know how they got on .

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Aston Villa's clash with Sheffield United will ring in the changes.
As Premier League fixtures return, a number of adjustments will be made to ensure matchdays meet Government guidelines as England adjusts to life outside of lockdown.
It's certainly all change for Villa - and other Premier League clubs, who will now have to limit interactions and recovery time to adjust to new rules.
Top-tier sides are set for a mini-season unlike no other, as they fight for titles, Europe, survival and bragging rights.
Villa's season now hinges on an epic ten game run, under social distancing rules and regulations.
Dean Smith has highlighted just how different matches will be as his side fights for survival - noting how it's now 'tournament football' during an interview earlier today.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
"It's like a mini tournament. Like being away in a World Cup camp and being ready for ten games, we've got a quick start with four games in 11 days," said Dean Smith to VILLATV.
But how will they prepare for the games? They aren't just ten normal fixtures after all.
Smith broke down the new normal - one that includes limited team-talks, takeaway meals and a cut-down on recovery sessions.
"As a home club, we are happy to provide a meal for the opposition. I think each club has to do that. If they want - I'm not sure if Sheffield United are - but we will go to Villa Park to eat. The players will drive on their own, bring all their own bottles and bags which they have been doing quite regularly," added Smith.
"They have to sit apart eating, they have to follow social distancing and we'll be getting changed in two dressing rooms as well, spacing out.
"We are allowed fifteen minutes together for a team talk in the one dressing room but that is the maximum we can do. The opposition will be getting changed in some boxes up stairs I think. We've made temporary arrangements and that will happen when we go to Newcastle and Liverpool."
"One of the biggest things is that each player after the game is only allowed fifteen minutes of [physical] therapy. Recovery is the biggest part of this mini-tournament now and the players have to recover quickly and well. Getting massages, getting ice baths and getting them filled up straight away.
"There's a lot of things that have changed. We'll give the lads their food to takeaway afterwards. We're planning on heading back to Bodymoor Heath after each game and doing recovery there.
Aston Villa's return to action Will kick off in 0 Days 0 Hours 0 minutes 0 Seconds
"It's all big changes, but it will be normality for the next few months and the players are accepting of that."
Villa fans will be hoping that Smith and his side can adjust quickly to the new normal - one that will place far more demands on him and the Villa staff.
His side are set to face Sheffield United on June 17 in the very first Project Restart fixture, and only once that match concludes will we know how they got on.


birminghammail--2020-06-13--Sheffield United suffer set-back on eve of key Aston Villa clash

Sheffield United ’ s preparations for their visit to Aston Villa on Wednesday ended with a defeat to Yorkshire rivals Barnsley on Saturday .
The Blades , who have also played rivals Huddersfield and Hull City by way of warm-up matches since the return of the Premier League was confirmed , lost 2-0 to the Championship Tykes , who themselves are battling against relegation back to League One .
In truth , little can be read into the results of such friendlies , which are acting as mini pre-season campaigns for the players who are looking for competitive minutes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the highly anticipated resumption of the league .
Nevertheless , it 's an upset of sorts between two teams who could be separated by two divisions come the beginning of next season .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store In behind closed doors conditions it ’ s heartening for Villa , who themselves have drawn with West Brom at Villa Park before taking part in a double header against Leicester City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against massive opponents and I ’ m especially happy about the performance from the boys , ” Barnsley boss Gerhard Struber told the Tykes ’ official website .
“ This was one big collective effort against big opponents .
We always needed a team performance and this was a mirror , for me .
“ When we are clear in my style and clear in our task and with the right motivation , with a good balance , it is very difficult to play against Barnsley.
” Meanwhile , Villa boss Dean Smith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ignoring the governmental guidelines to stay away from Villa Park on Wednesday .
The Lions kick off their run-in against the Blades without supporters in the stadium , and Smith has advised fans that they must stay at home in the hope that it ’ ll discourage groups from congregating outside B6 .
Read the message to fans from our writer James Rushton by clicking here .

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Sheffield United’s preparations for their visit to Aston Villa on Wednesday ended with a defeat to Yorkshire rivals Barnsley on Saturday.
The Blades, who have also played rivals Huddersfield and Hull City by way of warm-up matches since the return of the Premier League was confirmed, lost 2-0 to the Championship Tykes, who themselves are battling against relegation back to League One.
In truth, little can be read into the results of such friendlies, which are acting as mini pre-season campaigns for the players who are looking for competitive minutes to get their respective fitness levels up before the highly anticipated resumption of the league.
Nevertheless, it's an upset of sorts between two teams who could be separated by two divisions come the beginning of next season.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
In behind closed doors conditions it’s heartening for Villa, who themselves have drawn with West Brom at Villa Park before taking part in a double header against Leicester City earlier this week.
“We won against massive opponents and I’m especially happy about the performance from the boys,” Barnsley boss Gerhard Struber told the Tykes’ official website.
“This was one big collective effort against big opponents. We always needed a team performance and this was a mirror, for me.
“When we are clear in my style and clear in our task and with the right motivation, with a good balance, it is very difficult to play against Barnsley.”
Meanwhile, Villa boss Dean Smith has urged Villa fans who are thinking of ignoring the governmental guidelines to stay away from Villa Park on Wednesday.
The Lions kick off their run-in against the Blades without supporters in the stadium, and Smith has advised fans that they must stay at home in the hope that it’ll discourage groups from congregating outside B6.
Read the message to fans from our writer James Rushton by clicking here.