birminghammail--2020-01-10--Aston Villa and Pep Reina: Meetings taking place today to decide is future - report

Aston Villa 's move for Pepe Reina could be sorted out today .
According to Sports Witness , further meetings between the player 's representatives and AC Milan will take place later to iron out the finer details of Reina 's proposed move from Milan to Aston Villa - including a severance pay request that could hold up the move .
It has been a short , yet convoluted , saga so far .
It was reported that Villa had an agreement with the goalkeeper over a move to Birmingham to replace the injured Tom Heaton .
However , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the move from Villa 's side have been left to another figure .
After the mid-week cup clash with Leicester City - Smith stated that he has left the goalkeeper search to Director of Football , Suso .
`` We ’ re looking at goalkeepers but whether we ’ re close or not , I don ’ t know .
I ’ ve been at the game so I ’ ve left that to our sporting director at the moment . ''
Reina 's agent Manuel Garcia Quilon was spotted yesterday at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the player but was n't able to confirm an agreement .
Reina is hoping to sever his contract with Milan to move to Villa on a free deal .
The Rossoneri are open to this , but Reina is requesting a severance package as well .
Milan would also need a replacement .
Reina backs up Gianluigi Donnarumma , and only Donnarumma 's brother - Antonio - would be available as senior backup if Reina does leave .
Milan have been linked to Emiliano Viviano and Marco Sportiello , who is currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Atalanta .
Villa currently have Ørjan Nyland , Matija Sarkic and Lovre Kalinic on the books in the position , and after Nyland 's performance on Wednesday - Villa may yet change their mind on Reina .
It 'd certainly be a brutal blow for the Norweigian if Reina is brought into the club to replace him after his chance in the spotlight paid off .

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Aston Villa 's move for Pepe Reina could be sorted out today.
According to Sports Witness, further meetings between the player's representatives and AC Milan will take place later to iron out the finer details of Reina's proposed move from Milan to Aston Villa - including a severance pay request that could hold up the move.
It has been a short, yet convoluted, saga so far.
It was reported that Villa had an agreement with the goalkeeper over a move to Birmingham to replace the injured Tom Heaton.
However, according to Dean Smith, the main details of the move from Villa's side have been left to another figure.
After the mid-week cup clash with Leicester City - Smith stated that he has left the goalkeeper search to Director of Football, Suso.
"We’re looking at goalkeepers but whether we’re close or not, I don’t know. I’ve been at the game so I’ve left that to our sporting director at the moment."
Reina's agent Manuel Garcia Quilon was spotted yesterday at Milan's base of operations after speaking to the player but wasn't able to confirm an agreement.
Reina is hoping to sever his contract with Milan to move to Villa on a free deal. The Rossoneri are open to this, but Reina is requesting a severance package as well.
Milan would also need a replacement . Reina backs up Gianluigi Donnarumma, and only Donnarumma's brother - Antonio - would be available as senior backup if Reina does leave.
Milan have been linked to Emiliano Viviano and Marco Sportiello, who is currently backing up former Villa keeper Pierluigi Gollini at Atalanta.
Villa currently have Ørjan Nyland, Matija Sarkic and Lovre Kalinic on the books in the position, and after Nyland's performance on Wednesday - Villa may yet change their mind on Reina.
It'd certainly be a brutal blow for the Norweigian if Reina is brought into the club to replace him after his chance in the spotlight paid off.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--British Airways under fire over brutal reply to passenger's passport complaint

British Airways has come under fire after a brutal reply to a woman 's complaint online .
Taking to social media , the passenger - who was set to depart with the airline - hit out at BA .
She vented her frustration on Twitter , but found herself receiving a brutal swipe in response .
The holidaymaker wrote : `` FFS British Airways flight is 25 mins late because the first officer was stuck in traffic to the airport .
`` Despite that , gate staff refused to let me on the flight because my passport wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the queue for another 5 minutes while I practised my signature . ''
She later added : `` Then , with the weight of tutting behind me , I scribbled any old s***e in my passport .
`` So now for the next 9.75 years I have a sig that looks nothing like mine in my passport .
Thanks British Airways , that ’ s not improved security in any way while storing up future problems for me . ''
Rather than the apology so many companies have ready to fire out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , BA staff member Angela responded to back up her colleagues at the gate , as reported by The Mirror .
`` There are times when we have to accept responsibility for our own actions , '' she replied .
`` If you ’ d signed your passport when you received it , this wouldn ’ t have become an issue .
Angela . ''
The comeback divided opinion online , with some loving Anglela 's no nonsense approach .
“ Well , that told you !
” replied a second .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I love that Angela is standing up for her crew ! ''
Despite the support , others hit out at the airline for its handling of the complaint .
`` Wow .
That ’ s an awful apology , '' said one .
Another wrote : `` Goodness .
This is about the rudest customer service response I have ever seen .
Awful ! ''
British Airways has since removed the tweet and Angela has issued another reply , reading : `` Hi , Sharon , ideally you should sign your new passport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` As the passport holder , you may add your signature at any point before you depart from the UK .
My colleague was exercising the law and not trying to be difficult .
Angela . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Luke Matthews, James Rodger)

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British Airways has come under fire after a brutal reply to a woman's complaint online.
Taking to social media, the passenger - who was set to depart with the airline - hit out at BA.
She vented her frustration on Twitter, but found herself receiving a brutal swipe in response.
The holidaymaker wrote: "FFS British Airways flight is 25 mins late because the first officer was stuck in traffic to the airport.
"Despite that, gate staff refused to let me on the flight because my passport wasn’t signed.
"So instead we held up the queue for another 5 minutes while I practised my signature."
She later added: "Then, with the weight of tutting behind me, I scribbled any old s***e in my passport.
"So now for the next 9.75 years I have a sig that looks nothing like mine in my passport. Thanks British Airways, that’s not improved security in any way while storing up future problems for me."
Rather than the apology so many companies have ready to fire out at any given moment on social media, BA staff member Angela responded to back up her colleagues at the gate, as reported by The Mirror.
"There are times when we have to accept responsibility for our own actions," she replied.
"If you’d signed your passport when you received it, this wouldn’t have become an issue. Angela."
The comeback divided opinion online, with some loving Anglela's no nonsense approach.
"Angela @British_Airways deserves a raise," wrote one.
“Well, that told you!” replied a second. "As a cabin crew member myself, I love that Angela is standing up for her crew!"
Despite the support, others hit out at the airline for its handling of the complaint.
"Wow. That’s an awful apology," said one.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Another wrote: "Goodness. This is about the rudest customer service response I have ever seen. Awful!"
British Airways has since removed the tweet and Angela has issued another reply, reading: "Hi, Sharon, ideally you should sign your new passport as soon as you receive it.
"As the passport holder, you may add your signature at any point before you depart from the UK. My colleague was exercising the law and not trying to be difficult. Angela."


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Teacher, 48, who gave up career for the 'best job in the world'

From stockpiling cereal and nervous waits to the joys of seeing a child `` blossom '' , one of Solihull 's foster carers sheds light on what the job involves amid an urgent call to get more people to sign up .
Former secondary school teacher Sue Leacy , who left the classroom behind and became a foster carer , feels like she 's got the `` best job in the world '' .
She made the difficult decision to leave her old profession a few years ago after being widowed but , having `` always loved working with kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of opening her home to a foster child .
The 48-year-old , who also has a birth child , described how an `` emergency respite '' has become a long-term placement , with the youngster set to remain with her until `` whenever they 're ready to move on '' .
Almost two years after the child 's arrival Sue says that for all her past experience - she was a head of year for almost 20 years - there was an awful lot to learn , but she would n't swap the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them come home from school and they 've had a good day and they 're smiling and they 're laughing and they 're on the phone to their friends ... '' The moments like that just keep you going in the darkest moments when the typical teenager is stood there and shouting ' I want to go out ' and it 's too late and things like that .
But it 's just so rewarding . ''
Reflecting back on the start of the process , she said : `` Waiting for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever , because every time my phone rang I looked to see whether it was a council number .
`` The house was ready [ and ] I almost expected it to be like a B & B .
Lots of sets of bedding and lots of everything ready and cupboards stocked with 30,000 different cereals and bags of nuggets , bags of everything under the sun .
`` You have no idea what to expect . ''
Foster caring was something she had previously discussed with her late husband Mick earlier in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a possibility that she considered again before deciding to take the step .
`` Someone had mentioned it as well - had I thought about it - and it was something I looked into and the more I looked into it , the more I thought I could help meet children 's needs .
`` I do n't consider myself really as a foster carer , we 're more of a fostering family .
I have a birth child as well , so there was an awful lot of conversation with them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immediate family .
`` Obviously being on my own it was a tough decision but actually it feels like I made the best decision in the world . ''
Asked about what Mick might have made of the role she had taken on , she said : `` He was very supportive of me being a teacher , he knew how much I loved working with the kids .
`` Because if I 'm honest I was the science teacher , but I was the bantering science teacher .
I 'm more of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you will drum science in ' . ''
Solihull Council is keen to recruit more foster carers to look after borough youngsters - the bigger its team the less it has to rely on more expensive agency workers .
Although like many local authorities there has been a struggle in recent years to bolster the numbers in order to meet rising demand .
In fact there are now more than 400 looked after children in the council area .
Sue believes that laying the `` horror stories '' some people hear online to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged those interested to find out what is involved in `` real life . ''
`` People want to hear the gossip , they want to be able to share the worst , '' she said of the online rumour-mill .
`` You 've only got to look at certain websites .
They do n't give you the positives all the time and there 's so many out there , which unfortunately people just do n't get to hear .
`` Who wants to hear about getting a bunch of flowers from a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smashed up a bedroom and thrown a chair through a window or something ?
I 've done a lot of courses , an awful lot of training in the last two years , believe you me , and I 've not met anyone who has ever experienced anything like that . ''
Talking about her own involvement , she said : `` The child I have in placement now is very much part of my family , they fit in , my family adore them , they know I love them to pieces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we have our bad days but that is true of all parenting .
`` I 've been very lucky ...
I class myself as the lucky one .
It drives me up the wall when people tell me 'oh , they should be grateful ' .
`` They 're just blossoming .
And my privilege is to see that . ''
She also paid tribute to the `` fantastic '' support available from the fostering team .
`` There 's always someone there on the end of the phone for emergencies , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... '' When I went into it I thought , I 'm a parent , I 've been a teacher , I know everything ... they 're going to put me into courses and I 'm going to sit there and just yawn my way through .
But the courses have been exactly what I need . ''
Having gone on quite a journey herself , she is now a `` buddy '' to a more recent recruit and said that there are also regular chats between carers in the likes of WhatsApp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to other people , she said : `` It 's being with people who get it .
`` The common theme always is wanting to work with kids , wanting to help kids . ''
Almost anyone can become a foster carer , whether single , married , young or retired , a home owner or in rented accommodation .
All residents require is a spare bedroom and a willingness to give a child a stable and loving home .
Cllr Ken Meeson , cabinet member for children , education and skills , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have some fantastic foster carers that make a huge difference to children ’ s lives .
We urgently need more people who are willing take on this rewarding challenge . ''
An information event is taking place on Wednesday , January 22 ( from 6.30pm until 8pm ) at the Civic Suite , in Solihull town centre .
You do not need to book a place in advance .
If you are unable to make the date call 0121 788 4253 for more information or visit www.solihull.gov.uk/fostering

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From stockpiling cereal and nervous waits to the joys of seeing a child "blossom", one of Solihull's foster carers sheds light on what the job involves amid an urgent call to get more people to sign up.
Former secondary school teacher Sue Leacy, who left the classroom behind and became a foster carer, feels like she's got the "best job in the world".
She made the difficult decision to leave her old profession a few years ago after being widowed but, having "always loved working with kids" she decided to take the step of opening her home to a foster child.
The 48-year-old, who also has a birth child, described how an "emergency respite" has become a long-term placement, with the youngster set to remain with her until "whenever they're ready to move on".
(Image: David Irwin)
Almost two years after the child's arrival Sue says that for all her past experience - she was a head of year for almost 20 years - there was an awful lot to learn, but she wouldn't swap the experience for the world.
"Watching them come home from school and they've had a good day and they're smiling and they're laughing and they're on the phone to their friends...
"The moments like that just keep you going in the darkest moments when the typical teenager is stood there and shouting 'I want to go out' and it's too late and things like that. But it's just so rewarding."
Reflecting back on the start of the process, she said: "Waiting for the first phone call was the hardest thing ever, because every time my phone rang I looked to see whether it was a council number.
"The house was ready [and] I almost expected it to be like a B&B. Lots of sets of bedding and lots of everything ready and cupboards stocked with 30,000 different cereals and bags of nuggets, bags of everything under the sun.
"You have no idea what to expect."
Foster caring was something she had previously discussed with her late husband Mick earlier in life and after he passed away it was a possibility that she considered again before deciding to take the step.
"Someone had mentioned it as well - had I thought about it - and it was something I looked into and the more I looked into it, the more I thought I could help meet children's needs.
"I don't consider myself really as a foster carer, we're more of a fostering family. I have a birth child as well, so there was an awful lot of conversation with them ... and my friends and my other immediate family.
"Obviously being on my own it was a tough decision but actually it feels like I made the best decision in the world."
Asked about what Mick might have made of the role she had taken on, she said: "He was very supportive of me being a teacher, he knew how much I loved working with the kids.
"Because if I'm honest I was the science teacher, but I was the bantering science teacher. I'm more of a talker than a 'stand there and you will drum science in'."
Solihull Council is keen to recruit more foster carers to look after borough youngsters - the bigger its team the less it has to rely on more expensive agency workers.
Although like many local authorities there has been a struggle in recent years to bolster the numbers in order to meet rising demand. In fact there are now more than 400 looked after children in the council area.
Sue believes that laying the "horror stories" some people hear online to rest is important in encouraging others and urged those interested to find out what is involved in "real life."
"People want to hear the gossip, they want to be able to share the worst," she said of the online rumour-mill.
"You've only got to look at certain websites. They don't give you the positives all the time and there's so many out there, which unfortunately people just don't get to hear.
"Who wants to hear about getting a bunch of flowers from a kid when you can hear they've smashed up a bedroom and thrown a chair through a window or something? I've done a lot of courses, an awful lot of training in the last two years, believe you me, and I've not met anyone who has ever experienced anything like that."
Talking about her own involvement, she said: "The child I have in placement now is very much part of my family, they fit in, my family adore them, they know I love them to pieces.
"We have our good days and we have our bad days but that is true of all parenting.
"I've been very lucky ... I class myself as the lucky one. It drives me up the wall when people tell me 'oh, they should be grateful'.
"They're just blossoming. And my privilege is to see that."
She also paid tribute to the "fantastic" support available from the fostering team.
"There's always someone there on the end of the phone for emergencies, the support is outstanding. And training...
"When I went into it I thought, I'm a parent, I've been a teacher, I know everything ... they're going to put me into courses and I'm going to sit there and just yawn my way through. But the courses have been exactly what I need."
Having gone on quite a journey herself, she is now a "buddy" to a more recent recruit and said that there are also regular chats between carers in the likes of WhatsApp groups.
Emphasising the importance of speaking to other people, she said: "It's being with people who get it.
"The common theme always is wanting to work with kids, wanting to help kids."
Almost anyone can become a foster carer, whether single, married, young or retired, a home owner or in rented accommodation. All residents require is a spare bedroom and a willingness to give a child a stable and loving home.
Cllr Ken Meeson, cabinet member for children, education and skills, said: "We are lucky to have some fantastic foster carers that make a huge difference to children’s lives. We urgently need more people who are willing take on this rewarding challenge."
An information event is taking place on Wednesday, January 22 (from 6.30pm until 8pm) at the Civic Suite, in Solihull town centre. You do not need to book a place in advance.
If you are unable to make the date call 0121 788 4253 for more information or visit www.solihull.gov.uk/fostering


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Pep Clotet's definitive response to Birmingham City's €10m rumour

Of the dozen or so transfer links involving Birmingham City so far this month , one of the most eye-catching came from the Romanian press .
On Wednesday Telekom Sport claimed Blues had made a €10million bid for FCSB winger Dennis Man .
Both the size of the offer , which equates to £8.5m - more than £2m higher than their club record fee - and the fact Man has played all of his football on the right wing this season , made the story as surprising as it was eye-catching .
Of all the positions Blues need to fortify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coach Pep Clotet has repeatedly emphasised the need to sign another striking option .
Clotet gave insight into Blues ’ transfer mechanics on Thursday , when he revealed he outlines the type of player he wants , then ‘ the club ’ draws up a shortlist , from which he identifies his preferred target .
So is Man on that short-list ?
“ It hasn ’ t been mentioned to me , no , ” Clotet told BirminghamLive .
Blues are currently well stocked in wide positions .
The mid-season addition of Jeremie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Jefferson Montero , with Dan Crowley , Fran Villalba and Jude Bellingham all able to operate in wide positions .
Man , who can also play as an attacking midfielder as well as out wide , is regarded as one of the brightest talents in Romanian football .
He made his senior debut for the country in March last year having represented his nation at Under-19 and Under-21 levels .
It is claimed the former European Cup finalists are waiting on an improved bid with the transfer window still open for more @ @ @ @

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Of the dozen or so transfer links involving Birmingham City so far this month, one of the most eye-catching came from the Romanian press.
On Wednesday Telekom Sport claimed Blues had made a €10million bid for FCSB winger Dennis Man.
Both the size of the offer, which equates to £8.5m - more than £2m higher than their club record fee - and the fact Man has played all of his football on the right wing this season, made the story as surprising as it was eye-catching.
Of all the positions Blues need to fortify, wing is not one and head coach Pep Clotet has repeatedly emphasised the need to sign another striking option.
Clotet gave insight into Blues’ transfer mechanics on Thursday, when he revealed he outlines the type of player he wants, then ‘the club’ draws up a shortlist, from which he identifies his preferred target.
So is Man on that short-list?
“It hasn’t been mentioned to me, no,” Clotet told BirminghamLive.
Blues are currently well stocked in wide positions.
The mid-season addition of Jeremie Bela augments the presence of Jacques Maghoma and Jefferson Montero, with Dan Crowley, Fran Villalba and Jude Bellingham all able to operate in wide positions.
Man, who can also play as an attacking midfielder as well as out wide, is regarded as one of the brightest talents in Romanian football.
He made his senior debut for the country in March last year having represented his nation at Under-19 and Under-21 levels.
It is claimed the former European Cup finalists are waiting on an improved bid with the transfer window still open for more than three weeks.


birminghammail--2020-01-11--Universal Credit delays for terminally ill see 2,000 die during wait for DWP review

Thousands of people have died with no help from Universal Credit or other benefits during the long wait for a DWP review of policies on the terminally ill. On July 11 last year - exactly six months ago - the Government said it would take another look at how dying people claim benefits .
And today , the charities Marie Curie and the Motor Neurone Disease Association estimate that 2,000 people have died with no financial support as they and their loved ones waited for the review to be published , in the hope of a change to the existing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced after a campaign from the charities Marie Curie and Motor Neurone Disease Association , along with a damning parliamentary report .
At present , the DWP defines terminal illness as `` when a person 's death can be reasonably expected within six months . ''
It means those predicted to live longer than half a year do not get their benefits claims fast-tracked and are often forced to attend work assessments to see if they qualify for state help .
Today , Marie Curie is calling for the Government to `` find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule to make it easier for dying people to get the support they need and die with dignity .
It launched a # Scrap6Months campaign and is inviting people to join here Downton Abbey actor and Marie Curie Ambassador Jim Carter said : `` People are being forced to prove that they have six months left to live or face long delays in getting access to benefits .
`` When they do get benefits they can face stressful reassessment , even though they are dying .
`` Back in August we delivered a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 55,000 people , demanding change to the cruel benefits system that can make all the difference to people ’ s end of life experience .
`` Little real progress has been made since .
Marie Curie and the Motor Neurone Disease Association are calling for an overhaul of the current system and replace it with a fairer approach based on trusting the judgement of doctors and other clinicians who know their patients best . ''
Matthew Reed , Chief Executive of Marie Curie , said : `` The Government ’ s own figures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died while waiting for PIP in the six months since the DWP announced a review .
`` Tragically , we have not seen any notable progress and many more will no doubt be struggling to access other benefits such as Universal Credit .
`` And while we have seen personnel changes at the DWP , it is now a new year , with a new Government , which has a clear majority and , therefore , no excuse not to act fast to stop ten more people dying everyday without the support they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get this done .
`` The law is already set to be changed in Scotland this year , so anyone diagnosed with a terminal illness can get fast access to devolved benefits .
The new Government should now find its heart and follow suit – dying people don ’ t have another six months to wait . ''
What the Motor Neurone Disease Association said Sally Light , Chief Executive of the MND Association , said : `` The announcement of the review into access to benefits for people with terminal illness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ optimism that things would change .
`` But , six months on , we are no further forward and people are still dying without the financial support they need and are entitled to .
`` We need the Government to act on its promise now .
Any further delay will only cause further frustration , stress and fear for people already facing the most difficult time of their life . ''
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Terminal Illness has recommended that the Government drop th six-month rule and amend its definition so that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terminal illness `` if it is the clinical judgment of a registered medical practitioner or clinical nurse specialist that they have a progressive disease that can reasonably be expected to cause the individual ’ s death . ''
It says this will enable them to access benefits `` without an arbitrary and clinically irrelevant timescale . ''
At present , those with a terminal illness who do get benefits must reapply after three years - but the report recommended this be extended to 10 years , after which the DWP contacts the patient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prognosis remains the same .
And the report also asked the DWP to stop using non-specialist assessors to challenge and reject the evidence provided by healthcare professionals .
Jo Lynton spent months trying to claim benefits for her husband Mark who died in July 2019 from motor neurone disease ( MND ) .
She said : `` My husband was ill for 22 weeks and 6 days and that was all .
I spent 15 weeks fighting to get some help and the benefits we were entitled to and I didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was very frustrating , very upsetting and emotionally it was a very difficult time .
`` Mark didn ’ t have a quality of life from soon after he was diagnosed .
He had to stop work before he got the diagnosis .
It was so rapid .
`` He found it difficult to eat .
He couldn ’ t swallow .
He struggled to breathe .
He couldn ’ t get up and down stairs .
He lost the use of his arms so quickly .
He lost the ability to speak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
24 hours a day , seven days a week .
I couldn ’ t leave the house .
I couldn ’ t go shopping .
I did everything for him .
I showered him , shaved him , washed him , dressed him , gave him a drink , fed him , gave him his medication .
She said : `` Claiming benefits was horrendous .
We were entitled to claim income support of £50 a week and council tax benefits .
I couldn ’ t get either of those because I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Credit to answer the phone .
`` We were on hold for 50-60 minutes and I couldn ’ t be on hold for 50 or 60 minutes because my husband could choke on his own saliva so what was I supposed to do ?
Tell him to choke quietly as I ’ m waiting on the phone to get £50 a week ?
`` I would just sit and cry because there was nothing I could do .
We needed the support and we just couldn ’ t get it and there was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It made me really , really angry because me and my husband have both worked all our lives .
We ’ ve paid in to the system and the one time we needed help , we couldn ’ t get it . ''
We have approached the DWP for a comment on when the review is expected to be published .

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Thousands of people have died with no help from Universal Credit or other benefits during the long wait for a DWP review of policies on the terminally ill.
On July 11 last year - exactly six months ago - the Government said it would take another look at how dying people claim benefits.
And today, the charities Marie Curie and the Motor Neurone Disease Association estimate that 2,000 people have died with no financial support as they and their loved ones waited for the review to be published, in the hope of a change to the existing rules.
The DWP's review was announced after a campaign from the charities Marie Curie and Motor Neurone Disease Association, along with a damning parliamentary report.
(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
At present, the DWP defines terminal illness as "when a person's death can be reasonably expected within six months."
It means those predicted to live longer than half a year do not get their benefits claims fast-tracked and are often forced to attend work assessments to see if they qualify for state help.
Today, Marie Curie is calling for the Government to "find its heart" and scrap the six-month rule to make it easier for dying people to get the support they need and die with dignity.
It launched a #Scrap6Months campaign and is inviting people to join here
(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
What Marie Curie said
Downton Abbey actor and Marie Curie Ambassador Jim Carter said: "People are being forced to prove that they have six months left to live or face long delays in getting access to benefits.
"When they do get benefits they can face stressful reassessment, even though they are dying.
"Back in August we delivered a petition to Downing Street signed by over 55,000 people, demanding change to the cruel benefits system that can make all the difference to people’s end of life experience.
"Little real progress has been made since. Marie Curie and the Motor Neurone Disease Association are calling for an overhaul of the current system and replace it with a fairer approach based on trusting the judgement of doctors and other clinicians who know their patients best."
Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of Marie Curie, said: "The Government’s own figures suggest that ten people a day have died while waiting for PIP in the six months since the DWP announced a review.
"Tragically, we have not seen any notable progress and many more will no doubt be struggling to access other benefits such as Universal Credit.
"And while we have seen personnel changes at the DWP, it is now a new year, with a new Government, which has a clear majority and, therefore, no excuse not to act fast to stop ten more people dying everyday without the support they need. It’s time now to get this done.
"The law is already set to be changed in Scotland this year, so anyone diagnosed with a terminal illness can get fast access to devolved benefits. The new Government should now find its heart and follow suit – dying people don’t have another six months to wait."
What the Motor Neurone Disease Association said
Sally Light, Chief Executive of the MND Association, said: "The announcement of the review into access to benefits for people with terminal illness, including MND, gave us some optimism that things would change.
"But, six months on, we are no further forward and people are still dying without the financial support they need and are entitled to.
"We need the Government to act on its promise now. Any further delay will only cause further frustration, stress and fear for people already facing the most difficult time of their life."
What the parliamentary report recommended
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Terminal Illness has recommended that the Government drop the six-month rule and amend its definition so that a person is said to have a terminal illness "if it is the clinical judgment of a registered medical practitioner or clinical nurse specialist that they have a progressive disease that can reasonably be expected to cause the individual’s death."
It says this will enable them to access benefits "without an arbitrary and clinically irrelevant timescale."
At present, those with a terminal illness who do get benefits must reapply after three years - but the report recommended this be extended to 10 years, after which the DWP contacts the patient's GP to confirm the diagnosis and prognosis remains the same.
And the report also asked the DWP to stop using non-specialist assessors to challenge and reject the evidence provided by healthcare professionals.
Case study: 'I couldn't get anyone from Univeral Credit to answer the phone'
Jo Lynton spent months trying to claim benefits for her husband Mark who died in July 2019 from motor neurone disease (MND).
She said: "My husband was ill for 22 weeks and 6 days and that was all. I spent 15 weeks fighting to get some help and the benefits we were entitled to and I didn’t manage to do it.
"It was very frustrating, very upsetting and emotionally it was a very difficult time.
"Mark didn’t have a quality of life from soon after he was diagnosed. He had to stop work before he got the diagnosis. It was so rapid.
"He found it difficult to eat. He couldn’t swallow. He struggled to breathe. He couldn’t get up and down stairs. He lost the use of his arms so quickly. He lost the ability to speak.
"I was his full-time carer. 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I couldn’t leave the house. I couldn’t go shopping. I did everything for him. I showered him, shaved him, washed him, dressed him, gave him a drink, fed him, gave him his medication.
She said: "Claiming benefits was horrendous. We were entitled to claim income support of £50 a week and council tax benefits. I couldn’t get either of those because I couldn’t get anybody from Universal Credit to answer the phone.
"We were on hold for 50-60 minutes and I couldn’t be on hold for 50 or 60 minutes because my husband could choke on his own saliva so what was I supposed to do? Tell him to choke quietly as I’m waiting on the phone to get £50 a week?
"I would just sit and cry because there was nothing I could do. We needed the support and we just couldn’t get it and there was nothing I could do about it.
"It made me really, really angry because me and my husband have both worked all our lives. We’ve paid in to the system and the one time we needed help, we couldn’t get it."
We have approached the DWP for a comment on when the review is expected to be published.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Aston Villa transfer news LIVE: Pepe Reina breakthrough as Dwight Gayle linked & Benteke latest

Hello and welcome to Friday 's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive .
Villa completed their first signing of the @ @ @ @ @ international Danny Drinkwater joining in a loan deal from Chelsea until the end of the @ @ @ @ @ men will now be looking for a replacement for striker Wesley Moraes , who is @ @ @ @ @ and bolstering the squad ahead of the second half of their Premier League campaign .
@ @ @ @ @ latest news , rumours and links on any transfer news on incomings and outgoings at @ @ @ @ @ look ahead to the weekend as Villa play hosts to Man City .
So stick @ @ @ @ @ you all the latest news LIVE from Villa Park as we get it .
Follow @ @ @ @ @

Hello and welcome to Sunday's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive.
Villa completed their first signing of the transfer window with former England international Danny Drinkwater joining in a loan deal from Chelsea until the end of the season.
Dean Smith's men will now be looking for a replacement for striker Wesley Moraes, who is out for the season, and bolstering the squad ahead of the second half of their Premier League campaign.
We will have all the latest news, rumours and links on any transfer news on incomings and outgoings at Villa Park.
On the pitch, Villa were hammered 6-1 by Manchester City.
So stick with us as we bring you all the latest news LIVE from B6 as we get it.
Follow all the action below...


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Kidnap gang Tasered victim's testicles and demanded £500k cash and drugs ransom be delivered to Birm

Kidnap gang Tasered victim's testicles and demanded £500k cash and drugs ransom be delivered to Birmingham address

A ruthless gang of fake police officers kidnapped a man and Tasered his testicles before demanding a £500,000 cash and drugs ransom be delivered to a Birmingham address .
A former football agent whose brothers played for Manchester City was among five men jailed over the violent plot to snatch the victim in the belief he was a `` major league drug dealer '' worth `` millions '' , a court heard .
They posed as police officers to `` arrest '' the man on suspicion of drug dealing after he left a barbers in Manchester on April 11 last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a van and a `` realistic '' -looking fake gun was put to his head before he was held for 12 hours at a nearby industrial unit .
In calls to the victim 's family , the gang demanded £100,000 in cash and the rest in heroin and cocaine be dropped at an address in Birmingham , the Manchester Evening News reported .
A cement mixer was started to drown out any noise , including the man 's screams .
Manchester Crown Court heard the `` heavy '' of the group , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - used a blowtorch to singe the hairs on his arm and Tasered his testicles through his clothes .
His ordeal only ended when some of the gang travelled to Birmingham to collect the ransom and police - alerted after the ransom calls were made - moved in having tracked the location from mobile phone data .
Walfell is still on the run but former soccer agent Michael Etuhu , 35 ; John Bishop , 31 ; Ben Ukaegbu , 38 ; Daniel Lowe , 27 ; and Nicky Barnes , 27 ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were behind the plan , the court heard , but they recruited an 'out of town ' team from the Midlands so the victim would not recognise any of his kidnappers .
They had monitored his movements for weeks and struck after he left a barbers in Hale .
`` This was without doubt a sophisticated , premeditated and carefully organised criminal enterprise , '' Judge Patrick Field QC said .
The court heard Walfall told the man after the snatch : `` Right then , we know who you are and what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we want and everything will be alright .
`` We know where your wife is .
Where your mum is .
Where your dad is .
We know where your house is .
`` We can go and arrest them now if we wanted to .
`` But we 'll make it easy , you tell us where everything is and we 'll let you go .
Simple . ''
`` How much are you getting me ?
, '' Walfall asked him .
The man initially said £10,000 , but he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to £100,000 .
The man then had a gun pointed at his head after initially refusing to tell them the PIN for his phone .
The gang called his brother-in-law , who said he might be able to get ' a couple , maybe eight grand ' .
Walfall took the phone and told him : `` This phone call 's ending .
I ’ m going to give you a postcode and just come if you want to see your man here again . ''
In further phone calls , the brother-in-law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get hold of money .
He was told : `` Listen , if you don ’ t , we know where his wife is , we know where he lives . ''
He alerted his sister , the victim 's wife , and she called the police .
The gang told him the ransom should be delivered to an address in Birmingham .
The demand was £500,000 , with £100,000 in cash , and the rest in heroin and cocaine .
They had also called a friend who had been with him at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the friend could hear screams of pain , while he was being Tasered .
Walfall also said : `` If you don ’ t come or there ’ s any funny business , I ’ ll burn his face and scar him for life .
His son will find out . ''
At one point , some of the gang left for Birmingham to pick up the ransom money , leaving Bishop and Ukaegbu with the gun to guard the victim .
Armed officers stormed the building at 10.30pm .
`` You 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told officers after they found him handcuffed to the chair .
He suffered minor injuries , including a bump to his head and reddening to his arm .
Bishop , of Stanley Road , Chingford , London ; and Ukaegbu , of no fixed address , were both arrested .
Bishop , who helped source the fake police uniforms , told officers the gang believed the man was a 'major-league drug dealer ' and 'worth millions ' .
Barnes , of Byfield Road , Northampton , Etuhu , of Abbeycroft Close , Tyldesley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Greenwood Road , Northampton , were arrested later .
All five pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kidnap and conspiracy to blackmail .
Etuhu , a 'facilitator and organiser ' of the plot was jailed for ten years and two months ; Ukaegbu for 11 years and three months ; Lowe for 10 years and six months ; Barnes for 12 years ; and Bishop for seven years .
The court heard the victim said he 'used to hang around with bad people , but doesn ’ t any more ' .
Prosecutors said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was orchestrated by those people , knowing he may have ready access to large sums of cash .
The conspirators recruited an 'out of town ' team to perform the hit , possibly fearing 'repercussions ' if the victim knew who was responsible , the court heard .
Etuhu , a father-of-two and university graduate , became a football agent and later set up an agency with his two brothers who both played professional football for clubs including Manchester City , the court heard .
His barrister Genevieve Reed said Etuhu 's behaviour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' , and said his role was limited to 'administrative tasks ' .
Rachel Shenton , for Bishop , said the defendant had made 'fulsome admissions ' to the police , which were of 'great assistance ' to the investigation .
She said Bishop , who previously worked in waste management , was 'terrorised for months ' in prison , receiving threats and being assaulted after other inmates learned of the contents of his police interview .
Keith Harrison , for Ukaegbu , conceded his client played a 'significant ' role but said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the plot and was recruited by others .
Chudi Grant said Lowe became involved because he got into debt while working as a self-employed courier .
Barnes ' barrister Kyriakos Argyropoulos said the defendant played the role of 'driver and a gofer ' , and was n't involved in the planning or the abduction itself .
Det Insp Gareth Davies , of Greater Manchester Police ’ s Major Incident Team , said : “ This was a terrifying attack on a man who was held against his will and senselessly tortured .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planned by this despicable group of offenders and their behaviour was ruthless and inhumane .
“ The severity of these offences should not be underestimated and I would like to thank our GMP officers who have been working tirelessly as part of Operation Cervine to put these offenders behind bars where they can take the time they need to reflect on their actions .
“ This sentence is very much deserved and I hope it will act as a warning that this type of criminal behaviour will absolutely not be tolerated on our @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Andrew Bardsley, James Cartledge)

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A ruthless gang of fake police officers kidnapped a man and Tasered his testicles before demanding a £500,000 cash and drugs ransom be delivered to a Birmingham address.
A former football agent whose brothers played for Manchester City was among five men jailed over the violent plot to snatch the victim in the belief he was a "major league drug dealer" worth "millions", a court heard.
They posed as police officers to "arrest" the man on suspicion of drug dealing after he left a barbers in Manchester on April 11 last year.
But he was then dragged into a van and a "realistic"-looking fake gun was put to his head before he was held for 12 hours at a nearby industrial unit.
In calls to the victim's family, the gang demanded £100,000 in cash and the rest in heroin and cocaine be dropped at an address in Birmingham, the Manchester Evening News reported .
A cement mixer was started to drown out any noise, including the man's screams. Manchester Crown Court heard the "heavy" of the group, Micah Walfall - known as Big Dave - used a blowtorch to singe the hairs on his arm and Tasered his testicles through his clothes.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police)
His ordeal only ended when some of the gang travelled to Birmingham to collect the ransom and police - alerted after the ransom calls were made - moved in having tracked the location from mobile phone data.
Walfell is still on the run but former soccer agent Michael Etuhu, 35; John Bishop, 31; Ben Ukaegbu, 38; Daniel Lowe, 27; and Nicky Barnes, 27; were all jailed.
Criminals from Manchester were behind the plan, the court heard, but they recruited an 'out of town' team from the Midlands so the victim would not recognise any of his kidnappers.
They had monitored his movements for weeks and struck after he left a barbers in Hale.
"This was without doubt a sophisticated, premeditated and carefully organised criminal enterprise," Judge Patrick Field QC said.
The court heard Walfall told the man after the snatch: "Right then, we know who you are and what you do.
"Get us everything we want and everything will be alright.
"We know where your wife is. Where your mum is. Where your dad is. We know where your house is.
"We can go and arrest them now if we wanted to.
"But we'll make it easy, you tell us where everything is and we'll let you go. Simple."
(Image: Greater Manchester Police)
"How much are you getting me?," Walfall asked him. The man initially said £10,000, but he was told it would have to be nearer to £100,000.
The man then had a gun pointed at his head after initially refusing to tell them the PIN for his phone.
The gang called his brother-in-law, who said he might be able to get 'a couple, maybe eight grand'.
Walfall took the phone and told him: "This phone call's ending. I’m going to give you a postcode and just come if you want to see your man here again."
(Image: Greater Manchester Police.)
In further phone calls, the brother-in-law told the kidnappers he was struggling to get hold of money.
He was told: "Listen, if you don’t, we know where his wife is, we know where he lives."
He alerted his sister, the victim's wife, and she called the police.
The gang told him the ransom should be delivered to an address in Birmingham. The demand was £500,000, with £100,000 in cash, and the rest in heroin and cocaine.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police)
They had also called a friend who had been with him at the barbers earlier. During that call the friend could hear screams of pain, while he was being Tasered.
Walfall also said: "If you don’t come or there’s any funny business, I’ll burn his face and scar him for life. His son will find out."
At one point, some of the gang left for Birmingham to pick up the ransom money, leaving Bishop and Ukaegbu with the gun to guard the victim.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police.)
Armed officers stormed the building at 10.30pm."You've saved my life," the man told officers after they found him handcuffed to the chair.
He suffered minor injuries, including a bump to his head and reddening to his arm.
Bishop, of Stanley Road, Chingford, London; and Ukaegbu, of no fixed address, were both arrested.
Bishop, who helped source the fake police uniforms, told officers the gang believed the man was a 'major-league drug dealer' and 'worth millions'.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police)
Barnes, of Byfield Road, Northampton, Etuhu, of Abbeycroft Close, Tyldesley, Manchester, and Lowe, of Greenwood Road, Northampton, were arrested later.
All five pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kidnap and conspiracy to blackmail.
Etuhu, a 'facilitator and organiser' of the plot was jailed for ten years and two months; Ukaegbu for 11 years and three months; Lowe for 10 years and six months; Barnes for 12 years; and Bishop for seven years.
The court heard the victim said he 'used to hang around with bad people, but doesn’t any more'.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police)
Prosecutors said the 'organised' and 'professional' plot was orchestrated by those people, knowing he may have ready access to large sums of cash.
The conspirators recruited an 'out of town' team to perform the hit, possibly fearing 'repercussions' if the victim knew who was responsible, the court heard.
Etuhu, a father-of-two and university graduate, became a football agent and later set up an agency with his two brothers who both played professional football for clubs including Manchester City, the court heard.
His barrister Genevieve Reed said Etuhu's behaviour 'could not be more out of character', and said his role was limited to 'administrative tasks'.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police)
Rachel Shenton, for Bishop, said the defendant had made 'fulsome admissions' to the police, which were of 'great assistance' to the investigation.
She said Bishop, who previously worked in waste management, was 'terrorised for months' in prison, receiving threats and being assaulted after other inmates learned of the contents of his police interview.
Keith Harrison, for Ukaegbu, conceded his client played a 'significant' role but said he was not the 'mastermind' of the plot and was recruited by others.
Chudi Grant said Lowe became involved because he got into debt while working as a self-employed courier.
(Image: Greater Manchester Police)
Barnes' barrister Kyriakos Argyropoulos said the defendant played the role of 'driver and a gofer', and wasn't involved in the planning or the abduction itself.
Det Insp Gareth Davies, of Greater Manchester Police’s Major Incident Team, said: “This was a terrifying attack on a man who was held against his will and senselessly tortured.
"This crime was carefully thought out and planned by this despicable group of offenders and their behaviour was ruthless and inhumane.
“The severity of these offences should not be underestimated and I would like to thank our GMP officers who have been working tirelessly as part of Operation Cervine to put these offenders behind bars where they can take the time they need to reflect on their actions.
“This sentence is very much deserved and I hope it will act as a warning that this type of criminal behaviour will absolutely not be tolerated on our streets.”


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Aston Villa want to sign Newcastle United star in January transfer - reports

Dwight Gayle is the latest name to be linked with Aston Villa as the search for a new striker goes on .
Villa want to secure attacking reinforcements and have been credited with an interest in a host of forwards in the first ten days of the January transfer window .
AC Milan star Krzysztof Piatek , Chelsea duo Olivier Giroud and Michy Batshuayi are all said to be targets , while there is also talk of Christian Benteke making a return to the club .
Newcastle United hitman Gayle is now being tipped for a move to Villa Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he is on the club 's radar .
The 29-year-old scored 24 times on loan at West Bromwich Albion last season as they fell just short in their hunt for promotion but his game time back in the north east has been severely restricted .
Newcastle could be willing to let him leave on loan this month but are believed to be keen on inserting an obligation to buy clause in any potential deal .
Dean Smith wanted to complete the signing of a striker before Sunday 's clash against Manchester City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to that deadline .
He said : “ Do I think we ’ ll have it before Sunday ?
No .
We ’ re working around the clock to bring players in .
A lot of clubs don ’ t want to sell their players in this window .
“ We all know this is a narrow window , clubs don ’ t want their better players to be leaving .
“ When you ’ re after players , four things need to align for it to happen : the selling club need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club need to want to buy and then there ’ s the player and his agent .
“ There ’ s four boxes that need to be aligned and we ’ re not any closer to doing that at the moment .
“ We ’ d like to get some deals done pretty sharpish but we know the market in January drags out a little bit .
The prices get lower and lower towards the end of the month .
”

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Dwight Gayle is the latest name to be linked with Aston Villa as the search for a new striker goes on.
Villa want to secure attacking reinforcements and have been credited with an interest in a host of forwards in the first ten days of the January transfer window.
AC Milan star Krzysztof Piatek, Chelsea duo Olivier Giroud and Michy Batshuayi are all said to be targets, while there is also talk of Christian Benteke making a return to the club.
Newcastle United hitman Gayle is now being tipped for a move to Villa Park this month. According to The Times, he is on the club's radar.
The 29-year-old scored 24 times on loan at West Bromwich Albion last season as they fell just short in their hunt for promotion but his game time back in the north east has been severely restricted.
Newcastle could be willing to let him leave on loan this month but are believed to be keen on inserting an obligation to buy clause in any potential deal.
Dean Smith wanted to complete the signing of a striker before Sunday's clash against Manchester City but on Friday admitted defeat with regards to that deadline.
He said: “Do I think we’ll have it before Sunday? No. We’re working around the clock to bring players in. A lot of clubs don’t want to sell their players in this window.
“We all know this is a narrow window, clubs don’t want their better players to be leaving.
“When you’re after players, four things need to align for it to happen: the selling club need to want to sell, the buying club need to want to buy and then there’s the player and his agent.
“There’s four boxes that need to be aligned and we’re not any closer to doing that at the moment.
“We’d like to get some deals done pretty sharpish but we know the market in January drags out a little bit. The prices get lower and lower towards the end of the month.”


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Ant's bizarre baked beans story about Dec leaves Jamie Oliver speechless

Ant McPartlin has revealed that his TV presenting partner Declan Donnelly once phoned him to ask how to cook a tin of baked beans .
He was speaking during an appearance on Jamie and Jimmy 's Friday Night Feast , which saw Jamie Oliver try to teach the pair how to cook Japanese food .
Ant told viewers that when they started living together in London , Dec `` really did n't have a clue '' about how to cook .
He added : `` He rang me once to say 'what do I do with these baked beans ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cook them in the oven for like four hours at gas mark whatever . ''
He also told viewers that Dec had another culinary mishap involving a knife when he was living a few doors down from him .
Ant said that Dec had phoned him to say : `` Can you come round ?
There 's a lot of blood . ''
Ant added : `` We 'd been out watching the football , we got back and he decided to make himself something to eat .
`` He was slicing cherry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sliced into his finger . ''
Dec said he has never learnt to cook because `` there was always somebody there to do it '' .
The pair also revealed that they did not eat any Japanese food while they were touring their music in the country .
Oliver told the duo that he `` definitely '' would not be able to stomach some of the food that contestants are tasked with eating on I 'm A Celebrity .
He said : `` I love offal and I love all the cuts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ invented a new league of offal . ''

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Ant McPartlin has revealed that his TV presenting partner Declan Donnelly once phoned him to ask how to cook a tin of baked beans.
He was speaking during an appearance on Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast, which saw Jamie Oliver try to teach the pair how to cook Japanese food.
Ant told viewers that when they started living together in London, Dec "really didn't have a clue" about how to cook.
He added: "He rang me once to say 'what do I do with these baked beans?'
"He thought you had to cook them in the oven for like four hours at gas mark whatever."
He also told viewers that Dec had another culinary mishap involving a knife when he was living a few doors down from him.
Ant said that Dec had phoned him to say: "Can you come round? There's a lot of blood."
Ant added: "We'd been out watching the football, we got back and he decided to make himself something to eat.
"He was slicing cherry tomatoes with a knife bigger than that and sliced into his finger."
Dec said he has never learnt to cook because "there was always somebody there to do it".
The pair also revealed that they did not eat any Japanese food while they were touring their music in the country.
Oliver told the duo that he "definitely" would not be able to stomach some of the food that contestants are tasked with eating on I'm A Celebrity.
He said: "I love offal and I love all the cuts of the meat but you guys have invented a new league of offal."


birminghammail--2020-01-10--The difficulty Manchester United face in completing Wolves transfer - report

Manchester United will face difficulties in their reported pursuit of Wolves forward Raul Jimenez , say Sky Sports News .
The Mexico international has been linked with a move to Old Trafford on a number of occasions in recent weeks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said to be an admirer of the 28-year-old .
Jimenez hit 17 goals in 34 outings during the first half of the season , hurtling him firmly into the spotlight ahead of the January transfer window .
But with a transfer to Manchester speculated in the press , Sky Sports News reporter Kaveh Solhekol has claimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prove too difficult to pull off for United this month .
`` Manchester are interested in signing him [ Jimenez ] , but it would be a very difficult deal to do because he has been playing so well at Wolves since he moved there , '' said Solkehkol , speaking to The Transfer Show .
`` He has been identified by Manchester United as a player they are interested in .
I find it difficult to believe Wolves would sell him , especially in January . ''
When quizzed on United 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's goalless FA Cup draw with the Red Devils , Solskjaer recently said : “ Another good player that we ’ re being linked with .
“ I thought he came on and did really well today .
But I can ’ t comment on the speculation .
”

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Manchester United will face difficulties in their reported pursuit of Wolves forward Raul Jimenez, say Sky Sports News .
The Mexico international has been linked with a move to Old Trafford on a number of occasions in recent weeks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said to be an admirer of the 28-year-old.
Jimenez hit 17 goals in 34 outings during the first half of the season, hurtling him firmly into the spotlight ahead of the January transfer window.
But with a transfer to Manchester speculated in the press, Sky Sports News reporter Kaveh Solhekol has claimed that a move for the Mexican could prove too difficult to pull off for United this month.
"Manchester are interested in signing him [Jimenez], but it would be a very difficult deal to do because he has been playing so well at Wolves since he moved there," said Solkehkol, speaking to The Transfer Show .
(Image: Tim Goode/PA Wire)
"He has been identified by Manchester United as a player they are interested in. I find it difficult to believe Wolves would sell him, especially in January."
When quizzed on United's interest in Jimenez, and after Wolves's goalless FA Cup draw with the Red Devils, Solskjaer recently said : “Another good player that we’re being linked with.
“I thought he came on and did really well today. But I can’t comment on the speculation.”


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Tesco urgently recall five products with shoppers offered refunds and warned NOT to eat them

Tesco has issued customers with an urgent product recall notice .
Britain 's biggest grocer has moved to withdraw numerous products from its shelves as Birmingham shoppers flock to stores this weekend .
Tesco operates multiple stores across the city - from Express stores in the city centre to larger supermarket outlets further out .
The retailer is the most popular supermarket in the UK with a raft of stores across the width and breadth of the country .
And , if you shop at the supermarket giant , you 're being urged to return any of these items listed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the product recalls in a statement issued through its website today ( Friday , January 10 ) .
The FSA issues advice to customers affected , with shoppers urgently warned NOT to consume the items listed .
Instead , they are urged to return items to their nearest store , or point-of-purchase , in return of a full refund from the retailer .
Tesco is recalling various pesto products listed below because they may contain peanuts , which are not mentioned on the label .
This means the products are a possible health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peanuts .
These products may contain peanuts making them a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts .
Tesco is recalling the above products from customers and has contacted the relevant allergy support organisations , which will tell their members about the recall .
Tesco has issued point-of-sale notice to their customers .
This notice explains to customers why the products are being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the products .
If you have bought any of the above products and have an allergy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Instead , return them to the store from where they were bought for a full refund .

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
Tesco has issued customers with an urgent product recall notice.
Britain's biggest grocer has moved to withdraw numerous products from its shelves as Birmingham shoppers flock to stores this weekend.
Tesco operates multiple stores across the city - from Express stores in the city centre to larger supermarket outlets further out.
The retailer is the most popular supermarket in the UK with a raft of stores across the width and breadth of the country.
And, if you shop at the supermarket giant, you're being urged to return any of these items listed below.
(Image: Rui Vieira/PA Wire)
The Food Standards Agency announced the product recalls in a statement issued through its website today (Friday, January 10).
The FSA issues advice to customers affected, with shoppers urgently warned NOT to consume the items listed.
Instead, they are urged to return items to their nearest store, or point-of-purchase, in return of a full refund from the retailer.
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
Tesco is recalling various pesto products listed below because they may contain peanuts, which are not mentioned on the label. This means the products are a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts.
These products may contain peanuts making them a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts.
Tesco is recalling the above products from customers and has contacted the relevant allergy support organisations, which will tell their members about the recall. Tesco has issued point-of-sale notice to their customers. This notice explains to customers why the products are being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the products.
If you have bought any of the above products and have an allergy to peanuts, do not eat them. Instead, return them to the store from where they were bought for a full refund.
Tesco Green Pesto
Pack size 190g
Batch code All before 01/11/2022
Allergens Peanuts
Tesco Green Pesto
Pack size 280g
Batch code All before 01/11/2022
Allergens Peanuts
Tesco Reduced Fat Green Pesto
Pack size 190g
Batch code All before 01/11/2022
Allergens Peanuts
Tesco Reduced Fat Red Pesto
Pack size 190g
Batch code All before 01/11/2022
Allergens Peanuts
Tesco Spinach & Ricotta Pesto
Pack size 190g
Batch code All before 01/11/2022
Allergens Peanuts


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Aston Villa agree second January transfer with medical booked - reports

Villa have been hoping to land a new stopper after Tom Heaton was ruled out for the remainder of the campaign with a knee ligament injury .
Heaton ’ s former Burnley colleague Joe Hart and Middlesbrough ’ s Darren Randolph have been linked but Reina has been the club 's main target .
The former Liverpool goalkeeper has been used sparingly by Milan after joining the Rossoneri from Serie A rivals Napoli in 2018 .
He ’ s made just five league outings across two seasons and wants a move this month in order to secure more regular football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Reina will fly to England for a medical on Monday to complete the transfer .
The 37-year-old is expected to join on loan for the rest of the season , becoming the second temporary arrival to Villa Park this window after Danny Drinkwater 's switch from Chelsea .
Reina made nearly 400 appearances for Liverpool during an eight-year stint at Anfield before Bayern Munich snapped him up in 2014 .
Reports in Italy this evening claim Milan have included the former Spain international in their squad for Saturday 's clash against Cagliari @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two games after Heaton 's injury but Villa have been eager to secure another option in goal .

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Aston Villa have agreed a deal with AC Milan goalkeeper Pepe Reina.
Villa have been hoping to land a new stopper after Tom Heaton was ruled out for the remainder of the campaign with a knee ligament injury.
Heaton’s former Burnley colleague Joe Hart and Middlesbrough’s Darren Randolph have been linked but Reina has been the club's main target.
The former Liverpool goalkeeper has been used sparingly by Milan after joining the Rossoneri from Serie A rivals Napoli in 2018.
He’s made just five league outings across two seasons and wants a move this month in order to secure more regular football.
A deal has now been agreed and Reina will fly to England for a medical on Monday to complete the transfer.
The 37-year-old is expected to join on loan for the rest of the season, becoming the second temporary arrival to Villa Park this window after Danny Drinkwater's switch from Chelsea.
Reina made nearly 400 appearances for Liverpool during an eight-year stint at Anfield before Bayern Munich snapped him up in 2014.
Reports in Italy this evening claim Milan have included the former Spain international in their squad for Saturday's clash against Cagliari.
Orjan Nyland has started the last two games after Heaton's injury but Villa have been eager to secure another option in goal.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Walkers urgently recall Doritos over serious health and safety fears

Walkers Snack Foods is recalling packets of Doritos , customers have been warned in a new issue from the Food Standards Agency ( FSA ) .
The Midlands snack manufacturer is recalling the savoury favourites in the Tangy Cheese flavour .
The move from Walkers , based in Leicestershire , in the East Midlands , comes as a precautionary measure .
The FSA reported the urgent recall is being made by the company because it contains soya which is not accurately declared on the label .
This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FSA website reads : `` If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to soya , do not eat it . ''
The affected packs are 180g in size and have a best before date of June 6 , 2020 .
Walkers Snack Foods is recalling the above product from customers and has contacted the relevant allergy support organisations , which will tell their members about the recall .
The company has also issued a point-of-sale notice to its customers .
If you have bought the above product and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eat it .
Instead return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund .

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Walkers Snack Foods is recalling packets of Doritos, customers have been warned in a new issue from the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
The Midlands snack manufacturer is recalling the savoury favourites in the Tangy Cheese flavour.
The move from Walkers, based in Leicestershire, in the East Midlands, comes as a precautionary measure.
The FSA reported the urgent recall is being made by the company because it contains soya which is not accurately declared on the label.
This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to soya.
A statement on the FSA website reads: "If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to soya, do not eat it."
The batch codes affected include 06 06 20 GBC 205 364, 06 06 20 GBC 205 363, 06 06 20 GBC 203 364, 06 06 20 GBC 203 363,06 06 20 GBC 202 364 and 06 06 20 GBC 202 363.
The affected packs are 180g in size and have a best before date of June 6, 2020.
Walkers Snack Foods is recalling the above product from customers and has contacted the relevant allergy support organisations, which will tell their members about the recall. The company has also issued a point-of-sale notice to its customers.
If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to soya, do not eat it. Instead return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Euromillions results: Winning National Lottery numbers for Friday January 10

Tonight 's Euromillions numbers have been revealed - after the operator conducted the draw at around 8.30pm .
Every week , there 's two EuroMillions draws to enjoy - and we here at BirminghamLive bring you coverage of each .
These take place on Tuesday evenings , before another on Friday kick starts the weekend .
A EuroMillions ticket costs £2.50 and includes automatic entry into the UK Millionaire Maker draw , which creates new UK millionaires every week , guaranteed .
Every time you buy a EuroMillions ticket you ’ re automatically entered into the UK Millionaire Maker game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win a prize when you play EuroMillions and creates 2 guaranteed UK millionaires every week , with £1MMillion prizes .
The numbers for tonight 's jackpot draw have finally been confirmed .
6 , 17 , 32 , 44 , 46 and the Lucky Stars are 2 and 6 7 , 20 , 28 , 29 , 34 and the Thunderball is 4 The National Lottery draw launched in 2004 and nine countries across Europe take part .
To play , you simply select five numbers between 1 and 50 , plus two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you really can ’ t choose and you ’ re finding the pressure too much , you can always select a Lucky Dip and let the machine choose a random selection for you .

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Tonight's Euromillions numbers have been revealed - after the operator conducted the draw at around 8.30pm.
Every week, there's two EuroMillions draws to enjoy - and we here at BirminghamLive bring you coverage of each.
These take place on Tuesday evenings, before another on Friday kick starts the weekend.
A EuroMillions ticket costs £2.50 and includes automatic entry into the UK Millionaire Maker draw, which creates new UK millionaires every week, guaranteed.
Every time you buy a EuroMillions ticket you’re automatically entered into the UK Millionaire Maker game.
It’s another chance to win a prize when you play EuroMillions and creates 2 guaranteed UK millionaires every week, with £1MMillion prizes.
The numbers for tonight's jackpot draw have finally been confirmed.
Tonight's winning Euromillions numbers for Friday January 10 are:
6, 17, 32, 44, 46 and the Lucky Stars are 2 and 6
Here are tonight’s winning Thunderball numbers:
7, 20, 28, 29, 34 and the Thunderball is 4
The National Lottery draw launched in 2004 and nine countries across Europe take part.
To play, you simply select five numbers between 1 and 50, plus two Lucky Star numbers from 1-12.
If you really can’t choose and you’re finding the pressure too much, you can always select a Lucky Dip and let the machine choose a random selection for you.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Winter Love Island mental health checks 'strictest ever' after deaths

The stars of the winter edition of Love Island have reportedly undergone the `` strictest ever '' mental health checks yet .
The dating reality programme returns to ITV2 on Sunday and it 's reported TV bosses through gruelling medical checks to make sure they will be able to cope with the overnight fame that comes with the show .
A host of experts made the final call on who went into the villa ahead of the winter series but not show producers , according to reports .
It comes after the tragic deaths of former contestants Sophie Gradon in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 .
According to The Sun , all contestants had to fill in a questionnaire about mental health , followed by an interview with an expert and then a third meeting with a professional .
The final decision , made by the professional , was based on whether they are mentally well enough to cope with fame and all the ups and downs that come with it .
Each star will also be given eight therapy sessions on their return home as part of their aftercare .
A source the paper : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has to undergo the most stringent of interviews you can imagine to ensure that they are mentally fit and well to take part .
`` And once they get through an initial interview there are separate checks made to make sure that everyone taking part is suitable to be on a show that comes with so much interest and puts young people under the spotlight . ''
They revealed how some applicants were n't successful , as producers were concerned they would n't be able to cope with the fame .
Speaking about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last year , ITV Studios Entertainment 's creative director Richard Cowles , said : `` Due to the success of the show , our Islanders can find themselves in the public eye following their appearance .
`` We really want to make sure they have given real consideration to this and what appearing on TV entails .
`` Discussing all of this with us forms a big part of the casting process and , ultimately , their decision to take part .
`` Also , as we are outlining today , our welfare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , filming and aftercare and we are increasing our post-filming support to help Islanders following their time in villa . ''
The programme 's level of care for its stars was previously called into question , with Health Secretary Matt Hancock saying that reality shows had a duty to care for contestants after they became famous .
Love Island starts on Sunday at 9pm on ITV2 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Brogan-Leigh Hurst, Katie Brooks)

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The stars of the winter edition of Love Island have reportedly undergone the "strictest ever" mental health checks yet.
The dating reality programme returns to ITV2 on Sunday and it's reported TV bosses through gruelling medical checks to make sure they will be able to cope with the overnight fame that comes with the show.
A host of experts made the final call on who went into the villa ahead of the winter series but not show producers, according to reports.
It comes after the tragic deaths of former contestants Sophie Gradon in June 2018 and Mike Thalassitis in March 2019.
(Image: Joel Anderson/ITV/PA Wire)
According to The Sun , all contestants had to fill in a questionnaire about mental health, followed by an interview with an expert and then a third meeting with a professional.
The final decision, made by the professional, was based on whether they are mentally well enough to cope with fame and all the ups and downs that come with it.
Each star will also be given eight therapy sessions on their return home as part of their aftercare.
A source the paper: "Everyone who applies to the show now has to undergo the most stringent of interviews you can imagine to ensure that they are mentally fit and well to take part.
"And once they get through an initial interview there are separate checks made to make sure that everyone taking part is suitable to be on a show that comes with so much interest and puts young people under the spotlight."
They revealed how some applicants weren't successful, as producers were concerned they wouldn't be able to cope with the fame.
Speaking about the show's updated duty of care last year, ITV Studios Entertainment's creative director Richard Cowles, said: "Due to the success of the show, our Islanders can find themselves in the public eye following their appearance.
"We really want to make sure they have given real consideration to this and what appearing on TV entails.
"Discussing all of this with us forms a big part of the casting process and, ultimately, their decision to take part.
"Also, as we are outlining today, our welfare processes follow three key stages: pre-filming, filming and aftercare and we are increasing our post-filming support to help Islanders following their time in villa."
The programme's level of care for its stars was previously called into question, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock saying that reality shows had a duty to care for contestants after they became famous.
Love Island starts on Sunday at 9pm on ITV2.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--The Chase viewers all left saying same thing as Anne Hegerty debuts new hairstyle

The Chase was back on our screens tonight - and all viewers were left discussing was a star 's new hairstyle .
Anne Hegerty was The Chaser on the ITV1 quiz show , with Bradley Walsh presenting proceedings .
On Friday night 's instalment , airing on January 10 , The Governess was up against four contestants hoping to land a life-changing sum .
Bradley , the former Coronation Street star , welcomed Anne onto the show as she attempted to chase down each contestant .
And some viewers were distracted after noticing Anne 's new look , reports the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ usually wears her hair short , chose to add a bit of texture to her locks .
It appeared Anne had grown her hair out longer and had a very subtle blowdry .
Viewers took to Twitter to compliment The Governess , saying they loved her hairstyle .
Hector wrote : `` Ooooh Anne ’ s had her hair done '' , followed by a star-eyes emoji .
Carrianne tweeted : `` Anne is looking a bit snazzy with her new hairdo . ''
Mary said : `` Isn ’ t this the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new hairdo has made an appearance ? ''
And Jeannie tweeted : `` @ anne_hegerty has got a nice new hairstyle . ''
The Chase airs weekdays on ITV1 from 5pm .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Lottie Gibbons, James Rodger)

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The Chase was back on our screens tonight - and all viewers were left discussing was a star's new hairstyle.
Anne Hegerty was The Chaser on the ITV1 quiz show, with Bradley Walsh presenting proceedings.
On Friday night's instalment, airing on January 10, The Governess was up against four contestants hoping to land a life-changing sum.
Bradley, the former Coronation Street star, welcomed Anne onto the show as she attempted to chase down each contestant.
And some viewers were distracted after noticing Anne's new look, reports the Liverpool Echo.
(Image: ITV)
The star, who usually wears her hair short, chose to add a bit of texture to her locks.
It appeared Anne had grown her hair out longer and had a very subtle blowdry.
Viewers took to Twitter to compliment The Governess, saying they loved her hairstyle.
(Image: ITV)
Hector wrote: "Ooooh Anne’s had her hair done", followed by a star-eyes emoji.
Carrianne tweeted: "Anne is looking a bit snazzy with her new hairdo."
Mary said: "Isn’t this the second time this week Anne’s new hairdo has made an appearance?"
Beckie wrote: "Looking good Anne."
And Jeannie tweeted: " @anne_hegerty has got a nice new hairstyle."
The Chase airs weekdays on ITV1 from 5pm.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's one-word stance over future roles in Royal Family

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are `` hopeful '' discussions to find workable solutions for their future roles in the royal family can be concluded `` sooner rather than later '' , a source has said .
Harry and Meghan 's plans to step back as senior royals , become financially independent and split their time between the UK and North America are the subject of urgent meetings begun in earnest on Friday after directions from the Queen and other senior royals .
It is understood the meetings are `` progressing well '' with UK and Canadian governments consulted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the source told PA news agency : `` They , like everyone , are hopeful this can all be worked out , sooner rather than later .
`` It is in everyone 's interest for this to be figured out , and figured out quickly , but not at the expense of the outcome . ''
Harry and Meghan 's plans were announced in a bombshell statement on Wednesday that rocked the royal family and were said to have left the Queen and other senior royals `` hurt '' .
The royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis that overshadows the recent difficulties they faced with the Duke of York 's disastrous television interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein .
But it appears that the head of state , Prince of Wales and Duke of Cambridge have moved quickly to resolve what some commentators have dubbed the monarchy 's new Wallis Simpson moment - a reference to Edward VIII 's abdication in 1936 to be with American divorcee Wallis Simpson .
It is understood that a day-long series of meetings and phones calls were held by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up proposals for the Sussexes ' future roles .
The timetable for finding workable solutions remains days rather than weeks .

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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are "hopeful" discussions to find workable solutions for their future roles in the royal family can be concluded "sooner rather than later", a source has said.
Harry and Meghan's plans to step back as senior royals, become financially independent and split their time between the UK and North America are the subject of urgent meetings begun in earnest on Friday after directions from the Queen and other senior royals.
It is understood the meetings are "progressing well" with UK and Canadian governments consulted.
Speaking about the duke and duchess, the source told PA news agency: "They, like everyone, are hopeful this can all be worked out, sooner rather than later.
(Image: PA)
"It is in everyone's interest for this to be figured out, and figured out quickly, but not at the expense of the outcome."
Harry and Meghan's plans were announced in a bombshell statement on Wednesday that rocked the royal family and were said to have left the Queen and other senior royals "hurt".
The royal family are in the midst of a crisis that overshadows the recent difficulties they faced with the Duke of York's disastrous television interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
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But it appears that the head of state, Prince of Wales and Duke of Cambridge have moved quickly to resolve what some commentators have dubbed the monarchy's new Wallis Simpson moment - a reference to Edward VIII's abdication in 1936 to be with American divorcee Wallis Simpson.
It is understood that a day-long series of meetings and phones calls were held by officials and royal aides trying to work up proposals for the Sussexes' future roles.
The timetable for finding workable solutions remains days rather than weeks.


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Extinction Rebellion statement after being branded 'extremist ideology' by terrorism police

Extinction Rebellion ( XR ) has criticised police for including the group on a list of extremist organisations in an official report .
Documents seen by the Guardian reveal the environmental protest group was listed alongside National Action and Islamic extremists in a guide drawn up by Counter Terror Police South East ( CTPSE ) .
The activists branded the label a `` terrorism slur '' and a `` deliberate attempt to silence '' them .
XR also asked `` how dare they ? ''
and said : `` Children up and down the country are desperately fighting for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nurses have been trying their best with loving nonviolence to get politicians and big business to do something about the dire state of our planet .
`` And this is how the establishment responds . ''
XR has held climate change protests across the globe , and its actions in the UK have included closing Westminster Bridge and parking a pink boat in the middle of Oxford Circus for several days .
The 12-page `` safeguarding young people and adults from ideological extremism '' document , issued to teachers and police officers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a threat due to its `` anti-establishment philosophy '' .
It also warns that expressions of support could include `` people speaking in strong or emotive terms about environmental issues like climate change , ecology , fracking , airport expansion or pollution '' .
One former chief superintendent called the listing `` astonishing '' .
Rob Cooper said : `` If they wish to add anyone to their list of extremist groups , perhaps they should consider fossil fuel lobby groups .
`` They seem to be very effective at indoctrinating politicians around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and coal companies to receive massive subsidies whilst the planet burns . ''
According to the Guardian , XR featured in a version of the document that was issued in November but has since been recalled and the group is not classed as extremist .
DCS Kath Barned , the head of CTPSE , told the newspaper : `` I would like to make it quite clear that we do not classify Extinction Rebellion as an extremist organisation .
`` The inclusion of Extinction Rebellion in this document was an error of judgment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the contents as a result . ''

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Extinction Rebellion (XR) has criticised police for including the group on a list of extremist organisations in an official report.
Documents seen by the Guardian reveal the environmental protest group was listed alongside National Action and Islamic extremists in a guide drawn up by Counter Terror Police South East (CTPSE).
The activists branded the label a "terrorism slur" and a "deliberate attempt to silence" them.
XR also asked "how dare they?" and said: "Children up and down the country are desperately fighting for a future.
"Teachers, grandparents, nurses have been trying their best with loving nonviolence to get politicians and big business to do something about the dire state of our planet.
"And this is how the establishment responds."
XR has held climate change protests across the globe, and its actions in the UK have included closing Westminster Bridge and parking a pink boat in the middle of Oxford Circus for several days.
The 12-page "safeguarding young people and adults from ideological extremism" document, issued to teachers and police officers, among others, says the group is a threat due to its "anti-establishment philosophy".
It also warns that expressions of support could include "people speaking in strong or emotive terms about environmental issues like climate change, ecology, fracking, airport expansion or pollution".
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One former chief superintendent called the listing "astonishing".
Rob Cooper said: "If they wish to add anyone to their list of extremist groups, perhaps they should consider fossil fuel lobby groups.
"They seem to be very effective at indoctrinating politicians around the globe and enabling oil, gas and coal companies to receive massive subsidies whilst the planet burns."
(Image: PA)
According to the Guardian, XR featured in a version of the document that was issued in November but has since been recalled and the group is not classed as extremist.
DCS Kath Barned, the head of CTPSE, told the newspaper: "I would like to make it quite clear that we do not classify Extinction Rebellion as an extremist organisation.
"The inclusion of Extinction Rebellion in this document was an error of judgment and we will now be reviewing all of the contents as a result."


birminghammail--2020-01-10--Holly Willoughby fuels pregnancy rumours with cryptic Instagram post

Fans are convinced Holly Willoughby is pregnant with her fourth child after she posted a cryptic Instagram post .
The presenter shared some behind the scenes images from a new photoshoot on the social media site .
She captioned the image : `` Have a little news coming soon… and it ’ s the stuff of dreams . ''
Her announcement received an influx of comments congratulating Holly and speculating on her having a newborn on the way .
One fan asked if there was a `` baby on the way ? ''
while another commented : `` Preggers ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition to the family ? ''
Others wondered if she was going to launch her own bedding range while others joked she could take over from Meghan Markle .
Holly is already mum to three children - Harry , ten , Belle , eight , and Chester , five .
She shares her children with her husband Dan , who she 's been married to since 2007 .
Holly could be in for celebratory month after she was nominated for Best Presenter at the National Television Awards .
This Morning , which she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nominated for an award , as is Dancing on Ice .
The National Television Awards 2020 will air live on ITV at 7:30pm on January 28 .

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Fans are convinced Holly Willoughby is pregnant with her fourth child after she posted a cryptic Instagram post.
The presenter shared some behind the scenes images from a new photoshoot on the social media site.
She captioned the image: "Have a little news coming soon… and it’s the stuff of dreams."
Her announcement received an influx of comments congratulating Holly and speculating on her having a newborn on the way.
One fan asked if there was a "baby on the way?" while another commented: "Preggers?"
A third said: "Another addition to the family?"
Others wondered if she was going to launch her own bedding range while others joked she could take over from Meghan Markle.
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Holly is already mum to three children - Harry, ten, Belle, eight, and Chester, five.
She shares her children with her husband Dan, who she's been married to since 2007.
Holly could be in for celebratory month after she was nominated for Best Presenter at the National Television Awards.
This Morning, which she hosts alongside Philip Schofield, is also nominated for an award, as is Dancing on Ice.
The National Television Awards 2020 will air live on ITV at 7:30pm on January 28.