birminghammail--2020-03-05--'Perfectly' - Kerim Mrabti contract, Kristian Pedersen call-up, Maxime Colin injury and much more

Pep Clotet spoke with the media ahead of Birmingham City 's Championship clash with Reading .
The Blues head coach was asked about Kerim Mrabti 's contract , Maikel Keiftenbeld 's return and the fact Kristian Pedersen was watched by Denmark 's national team manager at Leicester City on Wednesday night .
What do you want the players to take from Leicester game ?
A lot of pride because I think they made the club proud , it was a very tough game , when we saw the line-up we thought it could be tougher .
It was difficult but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very well and the team did a lot of the things they were forced to do very well .
I think we did it with a lot of sense , hard work , intelligence , never neglecting that when we had a chance to go forward we would take it .
Apart from a couple of moments in the game when they were really putting a lot of stress on us I think the team coped with it very well .
Of course we lacked the ability and the power to think we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the same when I saw all the Championship sides against the Premier League sides because the gap is massive .
The gap between the Championship and the Premier League is probably the biggest in football , I don ’ t see that between League One and the Championship or League Two and League One – and you do appreciate it against a team as good as Leicester .
We are proud of what we did , we want to carry on .
All this year we have been developing a lot as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that was the result of all the work we have done this season .
When we have made a mistake we have corrected it this season and slowly we have improved and got to a point that we are competing very well .
We want to keep adding to ourselves and take things into next season , yesterday was an important test for us and I am proud of what the players did on the pitch .
Message to the players start another unbeaten run ?
Yes , I can always twist it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ league and do the things that possibly journalists do more than us .
But what I have in my mind is the team that we are , the team that we are turning into , the huge steps we are taking forward and we want to finish the rest of the season adding to it .
We want to get ourselves to a position where it is clear how we need to improve next season , that is clear what we need to tweak and adding and improving .
Those ten games are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday .
When it comes to our position in the league I feel pride when it comes to think about it because we picked 18 points out of the last ten matches and only Fulham picked up 21 – more than us .
It is a very good position and very good work but we stick to the mentality of one-game-at-a-time , Reading and competing for the three points .
Have you tweaked approach away from home ?
Away from home the opposition has to risk a little bit more to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little bit more exposed .
Away from home teams put more stress on you but we try to build the same football .
Maikel Kieftenbeld fit enough to play a part in the last ten games ?
Absolutely .
My plan was to play him as long as was needed , I would have kept him for the 90 minutes but after they scored I wanted to try to get as offensive as possible .
That was a tactical sub I didn ’ t do earlier because away from home against opposition like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anticipate you need to do things at the right moment .
We were well in the game on the way to extra time when we could have had more chances to go for the game more .
But when that goal happened we moved one midfielder .
I could easily have taken Ivan [ Sunjic ] out and left Kieftenbeld but I thought coming from the injury let ’ s build him up .
Let ’ s see how he recovers because that ’ s going to be the detail .
Does he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the things he is going to improve himself with the months to come .
But definitely he needs to turn himself into an important man for these last ten games and yesterday you could not have said that Kieftenbeld has not played for almost a year .
Age watched a lot of our games because of Kristian , he knew Kristian very well , he wanted to see him live to get and idea and feeling of him .
I think yesterday Kristian started the game very wel and went stronger and stronger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was good because I haven ’ t seen him for a few years now , we spoke a lot about the old times but we spoke as well about Kristian and I told him important he has been for us this season and the progress he has made , the fact he is the only player who has played all the minutes in all competitions .
That means how important he is , how well he does and how much he is improving .
Apart from that it is for the national squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they want but Kristian ’ s job is to make it as difficult as possible for Åge .
What sort of challenge will Reading pose ?
It is a team that has experience in certain areas , especially at the back , quality in the middle and dangerous options up front .
They have physicality and speed up front as well as talent .
I think it is going to be a very competitive game , we need to keep competing the way we have been doing .
Keep being with the mentality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ball and attack we want to go forward , we are valuing attacks more than the possession number .
It ’ s important for us to play forward and put as much as possible stress to them – and when we don ’ t have the ball make sure we contain all those strengths that they have .
Saturday a big opportunity to take the game to the opposition ?
Yes , of course , we have had to play a lot of very tough games at home in February , we won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Sheffield Wednesday , all of them became very difficult games .
It ’ s a new month and we need to keep building and think about the three points – the same as any game .
But at the same time we need to remember if we win and we reach 50 points for us it is capital because it is not easy to reach 50 points in the Championship .
We will only be two points from the final result last season – with everything that happened – and still a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are ambitious and we want to keep progressing , competing , the team is in a very good spirt , having a very good moment with each other , all proud of what each other is doing and despite we have played so many games we look forward to the next one .
Nine off bottom three and top six with ten games to play , would you have taken that at the start of the season ?
I think everyone SHOULD have taken it .
Should .
Because of predicaments of seasons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost a lot of money .
Everyone is a little bit romantic in football but football is a reality check business in the end .
We have done something , we have used the resources that were available to us – despite everything that happened , all the difficulties we had and after January getting a thinner squad , we managed to put this club nine points off the play-off , nine points off relegation with ten games to go – 47 points .
I think on the upside , we have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adding things , improving our style , demanding from each other , being ambitious and laying the stones for next season .
What I have seen in football is you never know what is going to happen , we have ten games and it ’ s about performing and competing for each one of them .
If you ask me here , even after we play Brentford , with the situation the club was in that day in August – what about we get to this point ?
I would say ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ Would you have signed to be in that position at the beginning ?
’ Nine points off the play-offs , nine points off relegation with a team that has been developing very well and competing very well , managed to take 18 points out of the last ten league games .
Would you have signed it ?
Yes , I would .
Everyone is OK – Jude is available after the rest and fatigue .
What does Max playing injured say about him ?
It says a lot of things about him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cope with a very strict rehab program to cope with that injury .
Not only to not make it worse but also to heal slowly .
It was one of them that allows you to play but you need to put a lot of extra work in there .
It just shows what a good professional he is and how he puts the team before himself and he believes in the team and he doesn ’ t want to let the club down .
In my opinion those are always good values @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything he had into his performances .
Harlee did it last season and this season was Max , so it says a lot about the kind of players we have .
Chat about taking him out ?
Yes and he always said ‘ No , no ’ and that he was coping very well .
I gave him all the confidence he needs and if he sees it , I see it .
Kerim ’ s first start for several weeks , thoughts ?
I think he did very well , especially in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well on that diagonal ball and was very dangerous , he could have scored in the first half when Scott Hogan laid it off to him .
So he got himself into the right areas .
I think defensively he understood the position perfectly .
At the beginning of the second half it was in the back of my mind I would need to sub him because he was coming back from injury but I could have left him on a bit longer because he felt very good .
Is it a ten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now ?
I am not aware about if the club is going to trigger the option or not but I am very aware of the mentality that every time Kerim is available for the team he wants to play and do his best – that ’ s our best asset we have at this moment .
The fact he doesn ’ t care about that situation when he comes to the game , he wants to help the team .
That says how good the spirit is in the squad .
I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ten games .
Can I interpret from that your recommendation will be to trigger it ?
I haven ’ t really thought much about this because at the end of the day it is always the club .
But of course a lot of things need to be spoken about with the club when the season finishes , not only my ideas on players , my ideas on other things and I will tell them what I think .
If they ask me before I will tell them my recommendation .
Can you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am not telling you ( laughs )

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Pep Clotet spoke with the media ahead of Birmingham City's Championship clash with Reading.
The Blues head coach was asked about Kerim Mrabti's contract, Maikel Keiftenbeld's return and the fact Kristian Pedersen was watched by Denmark's national team manager at Leicester City on Wednesday night.
Here's what was discussed.
What do you want the players to take from Leicester game?
A lot of pride because I think they made the club proud, it was a very tough game, when we saw the line-up we thought it could be tougher.
It was difficult but I think the team managed the game very well and the team did a lot of the things they were forced to do very well.
I think we did it with a lot of sense, hard work, intelligence, never neglecting that when we had a chance to go forward we would take it.
Apart from a couple of moments in the game when they were really putting a lot of stress on us I think the team coped with it very well.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Of course we lacked the ability and the power to think we could compete toe-to-toe against them but that is the same when I saw all the Championship sides against the Premier League sides because the gap is massive.
The gap between the Championship and the Premier League is probably the biggest in football, I don’t see that between League One and the Championship or League Two and League One – and you do appreciate it against a team as good as Leicester.
We are proud of what we did, we want to carry on. All this year we have been developing a lot as a team and you saw a team that was the result of all the work we have done this season.
When we have made a mistake we have corrected it this season and slowly we have improved and got to a point that we are competing very well.
We want to keep adding to ourselves and take things into next season, yesterday was an important test for us and I am proud of what the players did on the pitch.
Message to the players start another unbeaten run?
Yes, I can always twist it and say we are unbeaten in the league and do the things that possibly journalists do more than us.
But what I have in my mind is the team that we are, the team that we are turning into, the huge steps we are taking forward and we want to finish the rest of the season adding to it.
We want to get ourselves to a position where it is clear how we need to improve next season, that is clear what we need to tweak and adding and improving.
Those ten games are very important to us, starting game-by-game on Saturday.
(Image: Get Reading)
When it comes to our position in the league I feel pride when it comes to think about it because we picked 18 points out of the last ten matches and only Fulham picked up 21 – more than us.
It is a very good position and very good work but we stick to the mentality of one-game-at-a-time, Reading and competing for the three points.
Have you tweaked approach away from home?
Away from home the opposition has to risk a little bit more to come and attack us and leave themselves a little bit more exposed.
Away from home teams put more stress on you but we try to build the same football.
Maikel Kieftenbeld fit enough to play a part in the last ten games?
Absolutely. My plan was to play him as long as was needed, I would have kept him for the 90 minutes but after they scored I wanted to try to get as offensive as possible.
That was a tactical sub I didn’t do earlier because away from home against opposition like Leicester you don’t need to anticipate you need to do things at the right moment.
We were well in the game on the way to extra time when we could have had more chances to go for the game more. But when that goal happened we moved one midfielder.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
I could easily have taken Ivan [Sunjic] out and left Kieftenbeld but I thought coming from the injury let’s build him up.
Let’s see how he recovers because that’s going to be the detail. Does he recover fully that soon? Thee are the things he is going to improve himself with the months to come.
But definitely he needs to turn himself into an important man for these last ten games and yesterday you could not have said that Kieftenbeld has not played for almost a year.
Denmark manager Åge Hareide watched Kristian Pedersen – a sign of his progress?
Age watched a lot of our games because of Kristian, he knew Kristian very well, he wanted to see him live to get and idea and feeling of him.
I think yesterday Kristian started the game very wel and went stronger and stronger.
(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)
Afterwards I spoke to Åge which was good because I haven’t seen him for a few years now, we spoke a lot about the old times but we spoke as well about Kristian and I told him important he has been for us this season and the progress he has made, the fact he is the only player who has played all the minutes in all competitions.
That means how important he is, how well he does and how much he is improving. Apart from that it is for the national squad they can check as many players as they want but Kristian’s job is to make it as difficult as possible for Åge.
What sort of challenge will Reading pose?
It is a team that has experience in certain areas, especially at the back, quality in the middle and dangerous options up front.
They have physicality and speed up front as well as talent. I think it is going to be a very competitive game, we need to keep competing the way we have been doing.
Keep being with the mentality we have, when we have the ball and attack we want to go forward, we are valuing attacks more than the possession number.
It’s important for us to play forward and put as much as possible stress to them – and when we don’t have the ball make sure we contain all those strengths that they have.
Saturday a big opportunity to take the game to the opposition?
Yes, of course, we have had to play a lot of very tough games at home in February, we won against Forest and we drew with Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday, all of them became very difficult games.
It’s a new month and we need to keep building and think about the three points – the same as any game.
But at the same time we need to remember if we win and we reach 50 points for us it is capital because it is not easy to reach 50 points in the Championship.
We will only be two points from the final result last season – with everything that happened – and still a lot of games to come.
We are ambitious and we want to keep progressing, competing, the team is in a very good spirt, having a very good moment with each other, all proud of what each other is doing and despite we have played so many games we look forward to the next one.
Nine off bottom three and top six with ten games to play, would you have taken that at the start of the season?
I think everyone SHOULD have taken it. Should.
Because of predicaments of seasons gone by?
Yes because major turnarounds cost a lot of money. Everyone is a little bit romantic in football but football is a reality check business in the end.
We have done something, we have used the resources that were available to us – despite everything that happened, all the difficulties we had and after January getting a thinner squad, we managed to put this club nine points off the play-off, nine points off relegation with ten games to go – 47 points.
I think on the upside, we have a good opportunity to keep improving, progressing, adding things, improving our style, demanding from each other, being ambitious and laying the stones for next season.
What I have seen in football is you never know what is going to happen, we have ten games and it’s about performing and competing for each one of them.
If you ask me here, even after we play Brentford, with the situation the club was in that day in August – what about we get to this point? I would say ‘Why would that be bad?’
‘Would you have signed to be in that position at the beginning?’ Nine points off the play-offs, nine points off relegation with a team that has been developing very well and competing very well, managed to take 18 points out of the last ten league games. Would you have signed it? Yes, I would.
Team news?
Everyone is OK – Jude is available after the rest and fatigue.
What does Max playing injured say about him?
It says a lot of things about him. He played with pain and having to cope with a very strict rehab program to cope with that injury. Not only to not make it worse but also to heal slowly.
It was one of them that allows you to play but you need to put a lot of extra work in there.
It just shows what a good professional he is and how he puts the team before himself and he believes in the team and he doesn’t want to let the club down.
In my opinion those are always good values. Despite the situation he always put everything he had into his performances. Harlee did it last season and this season was Max, so it says a lot about the kind of players we have.
Chat about taking him out?
Yes and he always said ‘No, no’ and that he was coping very well. I gave him all the confidence he needs and if he sees it, I see it.
Kerim’s first start for several weeks, thoughts?
I think he did very well, especially in the first half, he linked very well on that diagonal ball and was very dangerous, he could have scored in the first half when Scott Hogan laid it off to him. So he got himself into the right areas.
I think defensively he understood the position perfectly.
At the beginning of the second half it was in the back of my mind I would need to sub him because he was coming back from injury but I could have left him on a bit longer because he felt very good.
Is it a ten game trial for him to prove himself now?
I am not aware about if the club is going to trigger the option or not but I am very aware of the mentality that every time Kerim is available for the team he wants to play and do his best – that’s our best asset we have at this moment.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
The fact he doesn’t care about that situation when he comes to the game, he wants to help the team.
That says how good the spirit is in the squad. I am pretty sure Kerim will do a fantastic ten games.
Can I interpret from that your recommendation will be to trigger it?
I haven’t really thought much about this because at the end of the day it is always the club.
But of course a lot of things need to be spoken about with the club when the season finishes, not only my ideas on players, my ideas on other things and I will tell them what I think.
If they ask me before I will tell them my recommendation.
Can you tell us your recommendation?
No, I am not telling you (laughs)


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Keep calm and carry on - coronavirus advice from business leaders in Birmingham

Business leaders in Birmingham and the West Midlands are sending out a 'keep calm and carry on ' message amid concern about the impact of coronavirus .
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce ( GBCC ) has pledged to support businesses as local cases begin to emerge in Birmingham and Staffordshire .
The number of reported COVID-19 cases in the UK jumped to 90 yesterday ( Wednesday ) , including t he first case in Birmingham .
There have been national reports of companies affected by access to suppliers , overseas travel and office closures .
The Chamber has published a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the potential spread of the virus , ranging from staff safety measures to reviewing key policies , procedures and suppliers .
For more information on the Coronavirus and to read more about precautions the Chamber is taking , click here .
The Chamber also runs an extensive events programme for member businesses and these will continue for the immediate future .
Chief executive Paul Faulkner said : “ The outbreak of the Coronavirus is , of course , very concerning given its potential to spread at a very fast rate .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily basis and are taking steps to safeguard our employees , customers , visitors and event delegates .
“ We will carry on delivering our events programme as planned , unless circumstance beyond our control – such as official Government advise or the closure of a venue – prevent this .
“ Should this stance change , we will issue communications as soon as possible to inform our customers and delegates.
” Director of Public Health , Justin Varney , spoke to BirminghamLive and revealed that 'one person of working age ' is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with coronavirus .
The unnamed person had contracted the virus while at a conference and was in contact with a known case .
Two others who lived at the same household as the Birmingham patient are now in self-isolation .
The announcement came after the total number of UK cases rose to 90 , with 16,659 people tested so far .
England 's chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , said it was now 'highly likely ' the virus is spreading inside the UK among people who have n't travelled .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - not large numbers - but several cases where we can not see where this has come from in terms of a clear transmission , either because someone has come directly from overseas or because they 've had a close contact with someone who has recently returned from overseas .
`` That I think makes it highly likely therefore that there is some level of community transmission of this virus in the UK now . ''

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Business leaders in Birmingham and the West Midlands are sending out a 'keep calm and carry on' message amid concern about the impact of coronavirus.
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) has pledged to support businesses as local cases begin to emerge in Birmingham and Staffordshire.
The number of reported COVID-19 cases in the UK jumped to 90 yesterday (Wednesday), including t he first case in Birmingham.
There have been national reports of companies affected by access to suppliers, overseas travel and office closures.
The Chamber has published a checklist to help businesses who are worried about the potential spread of the virus, ranging from staff safety measures to reviewing key policies, procedures and suppliers.
For more information on the Coronavirus and to read more about precautions the Chamber is taking, click here .
The Chamber also runs an extensive events programme for member businesses and these will continue for the immediate future.
Chief executive Paul Faulkner said: “The outbreak of the Coronavirus is, of course, very concerning given its potential to spread at a very fast rate.
“We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis and are taking steps to safeguard our employees, customers, visitors and event delegates.
“We will carry on delivering our events programme as planned, unless circumstance beyond our control – such as official Government advise or the closure of a venue – prevent this.
“Should this stance change, we will issue communications as soon as possible to inform our customers and delegates.”
Director of Public Health, Justin Varney, spoke to BirminghamLive and revealed that 'one person of working age' is in hospital in Birmingham after being diagnosed with coronavirus.
The unnamed person had contracted the virus while at a conference and was in contact with a known case.
Two others who lived at the same household as the Birmingham patient are now in self-isolation.
The announcement came after the total number of UK cases rose to 90 , with 16,659 people tested so far.
England's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said it was now 'highly likely' the virus is spreading inside the UK among people who haven't travelled.
He said: "There are now several - not large numbers - but several cases where we cannot see where this has come from in terms of a clear transmission, either because someone has come directly from overseas or because they've had a close contact with someone who has recently returned from overseas.
"That I think makes it highly likely therefore that there is some level of community transmission of this virus in the UK now."


birminghammail--2020-03-06--'Very promising' - Slaven Bilic issues positive West Brom injury update

Slaven Bilic has explained that Ahmed Hegazi ’ s hamstring injury is not as bad as first feared after the West Brom defender ’ s scan results returned showing minimal damage .
The Egyptian centre-back hobbled off just before half time in last Saturday ’ s 1-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic at The Hawthorns , having been brought back into the side in the place of Kyle Bartley .
In the two and a half matches he featured in , Hegazi was part of a back-line that didn ’ t concede a goal and Bilic admitted at the time that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such an important member of his highly performing side .
This is your round up of all things West Brom ; the one-stop shop that will keep you updated on the latest goings on at the club and beyond .
Transfers , injuries , match-days and managers , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest on the Baggies throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our handy daily catch up ... • Chris Brunt speaks on his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our West Brom reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com The better news is that it ’ s likely Albion will be without Hegazi for around a fortnight , perhaps until the other side of the forthcoming international break .
Elsewhere , Albion are looking healthy .
“ Hegazi did his scan , it ’ s not bad .
He should be back in a minimum of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It ’ s not cramp , but it ’ s a very little one .
It ’ s a big boost for us , because he came back in the team but hopefully it should be only a couple of weeks .
“ Kenneth did his back a little bit , just a spasm .
He ’ s maybe a couple of days , but most of the guys who played the whole game against Newcastle , it was good for them and good for us , to see them on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ On the paper it looks very positive and very promising .
”

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Slaven Bilic has explained that Ahmed Hegazi’s hamstring injury is not as bad as first feared after the West Brom defender’s scan results returned showing minimal damage.
The Egyptian centre-back hobbled off just before half time in last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic at The Hawthorns, having been brought back into the side in the place of Kyle Bartley.
In the two and a half matches he featured in, Hegazi was part of a back-line that didn’t concede a goal and Bilic admitted at the time that it was a bitter blow to lose such an important member of his highly performing side.
The better news is that it’s likely Albion will be without Hegazi for around a fortnight, perhaps until the other side of the forthcoming international break.
Elsewhere, Albion are looking healthy.
“Hegazi did his scan, it’s not bad. He should be back in a minimum of two weeks,” Bilic revealed.
“It’s not cramp, but it’s a very little one. It’s a big boost for us, because he came back in the team but hopefully it should be only a couple of weeks.
“Grady is closer.
“Kenneth did his back a little bit, just a spasm. He’s maybe a couple of days, but most of the guys who played the whole game against Newcastle, it was good for them and good for us, to see them on a big pitch, in a competitive game.
“On the paper it looks very positive and very promising.”


birminghammail--2020-03-06--Seafood salesman spared jail over smuggling £53million endangered eels out of UK

A seafood salesman has been given a two-year suspended jail sentence after smuggling more than £53 million worth of endangered live eels out of the UK .
Gilbert Khoo , 67 , transported the rare elvers from London to Hong Kong , hidden underneath chilled fish , between 2015 and 2017 , London 's Southwark Crown Court heard .
Khoo , of Chessington in Surrey , was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment on each of three counts of evasion of a prohibition on the export of goods .
Each sentence was suspended for two years .
He was also found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notify movement of animals .
But no penalty was imposed on him at today 's sentencing because hearings to retrieve the proceeds of crime will take place in the future .
Khoo was caught after Border Force officers found 200kg of the European `` glass eels '' , which are on the verge of extinction , at Heathrow Airport , in the first seizure of its kind in the UK .
The prosecution said the crimes took place over a two-year period , and involved 16 consignments with an estimated retail value of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Asia .
Khoo kept the live eels , imported from countries within the European Union , in a barn in Gloucestershire , before repackaging them to be exported to Asia .
Judge Jeffrey Pegden QC , who also ordered Khoo to do 240 hours of unpaid work for the community , said : `` In my view you played a leading role in this country in what was a large commercial operation driven by others , the purchasers abroad , where the desire for the glass eels was abundant . ''

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A seafood salesman has been given a two-year suspended jail sentence after smuggling more than £53 million worth of endangered live eels out of the UK.
Gilbert Khoo, 67, transported the rare elvers from London to Hong Kong, hidden underneath chilled fish, between 2015 and 2017, London's Southwark Crown Court heard.
Khoo, of Chessington in Surrey, was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment on each of three counts of evasion of a prohibition on the export of goods. Each sentence was suspended for two years.
He was also found guilty of three counts of failure to notify movement of animals.
(Image: PA)
But no penalty was imposed on him at today's sentencing because hearings to retrieve the proceeds of crime will take place in the future.
Khoo was caught after Border Force officers found 200kg of the European "glass eels", which are on the verge of extinction, at Heathrow Airport, in the first seizure of its kind in the UK.
(Image: PA)
The prosecution said the crimes took place over a two-year period, and involved 16 consignments with an estimated retail value of £53,265,000 in the illegal market for them in Asia.
(Image: PA)
Khoo kept the live eels, imported from countries within the European Union, in a barn in Gloucestershire, before repackaging them to be exported to Asia.
(Image: PA)
Judge Jeffrey Pegden QC, who also ordered Khoo to do 240 hours of unpaid work for the community, said: "In my view you played a leading role in this country in what was a large commercial operation driven by others, the purchasers abroad, where the desire for the glass eels was abundant."


birminghammail--2020-03-06--The bullish Aston Villa proposition that's got supporters talking

The game had just hit the 80-minute mark and the 33,000-odd Aston Villa supporters at Wembley were tinged with disappointment .
Dean Smith dragged off goal-scorer Mbwana Samatta and replaced the Tanzanian with Keinan Davis in a like-for-like swap .
Villa were , of course , chasing the game and were very much in with a shout of forcing extra-time at 1-2 .
In the end , though , Bjorn Engels was pushed up front with Davis with Claudio Bravo pulling off THAT save to deny a fairy tale ending .
Upon reflection after the full-time whistle , the claret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Samatta , with strong clamour for the January signing to stay up top WITH Davis in an attempt to grab a late goal .
Smith , meanwhile , must have thought Samatta had ran himself into the ground after a gruelling 80 minutes without the ball on such a big pitch .
Looking ahead to the Premier League now , though , and a large segment of supporters are calling on Samatta and Davis to play together in a bid to fire Aston Villa out and away from trouble .
Villa are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having scored 34 goals from their 27 matches played .
They 're ahead of both eighth-placed Sheffield United and ninth-placed Burnley , for example .
It 's been the defensive end where Villa have struggled .
They prop up the bottom of the table having conceded a staggering 52 goals at a rate of two per game with their goal-difference second-worst behind rock-bottom Norwich .
However , back to playing two strikers , it would take another system change by Smith after he 's gone from 4-1-4-1 to 3-4-3 and to 4-1-4-1 again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Judging by the reaction of die-hard supporters , there 's clout for Villa to go two up top in either a 3-5-2 formation or 4-3-1-2 , with Jack Grealish as a No.10 in a free role .
Here 's a selection of comments regarding the potential partnership of Samatta and the returning Davis , below .
Ged Egan : Think these would really compliment each other .
Both great workers and can hold ; one can bully defences and the other a born finisher Captain Jack : They do n't have to start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are going to stay up its going to be by scoring goals .
If we are chasing the game want to see them both together .
Ethan Woodward : I think it could work really well however KD needs to stay fit Mark Page : The real key is getting service to Samagoal in front of goal .
The guy looks clinical , needs enough service in a game to stick it in the onion !
I 'd give them both a go .
We 're up **** Street and caution has put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to have to play our way out of relegation JSP Doherty : I know this is n't popular but NO WAY !
!
!
!
Davis is a good substitute because of his power but for a full 90 would just get controlled by premier league defenders .
Samatta is by far the better option .
Duncan Lowen : Yes .
They would be a huge handful and would add some much needed power .
Love the way Keinan bullies defenders .
Lee Hatfield : Been saying this for ages now if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least go down with a fight ...
Them pair up top together would be a right nause for defenders !
!
!
Paul : Yes .
Defensively we 're poor .
Not just our defense , I mean the whole team .
We look so much better when we 're on the front foot .
Having KD upfront would give us a target to hold the ball up and supply Samagoal .
Andy Jones : Yes I 've never liked 1 up top it never works bin saying for years we should have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... ... Justin Goodby : Need goals to win games and we need to win games makes sense get Louie on the bench good enough old enough Dale Stewart : The majority of teams that play and beat us have two up top !
!
!
Defo an idea at Leicester Shaun Wilson : Would love it , but Dean will never start with 2 upfront , it could be a real handful for opposition defenders and it would trick other teams , because I think they all know how we play

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The game had just hit the 80-minute mark and the 33,000-odd Aston Villa supporters at Wembley were tinged with disappointment.
Dean Smith dragged off goal-scorer Mbwana Samatta and replaced the Tanzanian with Keinan Davis in a like-for-like swap.
Villa were, of course, chasing the game and were very much in with a shout of forcing extra-time at 1-2. In the end, though, Bjorn Engels was pushed up front with Davis with Claudio Bravo pulling off THAT save to deny a fairy tale ending.
Upon reflection after the full-time whistle, the claret and blue masses sighed at the withdrawal of Samatta, with strong clamour for the January signing to stay up top WITH Davis in an attempt to grab a late goal.
Smith, meanwhile, must have thought Samatta had ran himself into the ground after a gruelling 80 minutes without the ball on such a big pitch.
Looking ahead to the Premier League now, though, and a large segment of supporters are calling on Samatta and Davis to play together in a bid to fire Aston Villa out and away from trouble.
Villa are the 12th-highest scorers in the Premier League having scored 34 goals from their 27 matches played. They're ahead of both eighth-placed Sheffield United and ninth-placed Burnley, for example.
It's been the defensive end where Villa have struggled. They prop up the bottom of the table having conceded a staggering 52 goals at a rate of two per game with their goal-difference second-worst behind rock-bottom Norwich.
However, back to playing two strikers, it would take another system change by Smith after he's gone from 4-1-4-1 to 3-4-3 and to 4-1-4-1 again, playing the latter at Wembley.
Judging by the reaction of die-hard supporters, there's clout for Villa to go two up top in either a 3-5-2 formation or 4-3-1-2, with Jack Grealish as a No.10 in a free role.
Here's a selection of comments regarding the potential partnership of Samatta and the returning Davis, below.
Ged Egan : Think these would really compliment each other. Both great workers and can hold; one can bully defences and the other a born finisher
Captain Jack : They don't have to start as a 2. However if we are going to stay up its going to be by scoring goals. If we are chasing the game want to see them both together.
Ethan Woodward : I think it could work really well however KD needs to stay fit
Mark Page : The real key is getting service to Samagoal in front of goal. The guy looks clinical, needs enough service in a game to stick it in the onion! I'd give them both a go. We're up **** Street and caution has put us where we are. We're going to have to play our way out of relegation
JSP Doherty : I know this isn't popular but NO WAY!!!! Davis is a good substitute because of his power but for a full 90 would just get controlled by premier league defenders. Samatta is by far the better option.
Duncan Lowen : Yes. They would be a huge handful and would add some much needed power. Love the way Keinan bullies defenders.
Lee Hatfield : Been saying this for ages now if we're gonna go down at least go down with a fight... Them pair up top together would be a right nause for defenders !!!
Paul : Yes. Defensively we're poor. Not just our defense, I mean the whole team. We look so much better when we're on the front foot. Having KD upfront would give us a target to hold the ball up and supply Samagoal.
Andy Jones : Yes I've never liked 1 up top it never works bin saying for years we should have 2......Withe Shaw Atkinson Saunders......
Justin Goodby : Need goals to win games and we need to win games makes sense get Louie on the bench good enough old enough
Dale Stewart : The majority of teams that play and beat us have two up top!!! Defo an idea at Leicester
Shaun Wilson : Would love it, but Dean will never start with 2 upfront, it could be a real handful for opposition defenders and it would trick other teams, because I think they all know how we play


birminghammail--2020-03-06--'Disaster waiting to happen' car sales plan in Willenhall is rejected

A car sales business that opened directly opposite two schools in Willenhall has been described as a `` disaster waiting to happen '' .
Walsall Council 's planning committee rejected a retrospective application by Carcart Ltd for their motor display and sales site on Cannock Road due to fears for the safety of parents and pupils of both New Invention Infant and New Invention Junior Schools .
Officers had recommended granting permission and said highways concerns could be controlled with a raft of planning conditions .
But members said they were worried that cars would be delivered on large transporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a danger to those using the school .
Carcart started operating on the site last August and the property has previously been used as a toilet storage area and a builder 's yard .
Willenhall North councillor Ian Shires made representations at the hearing on Thursday ( March 5 ) and said issues such as deliveries taking place during the school run and congestion at the site was concerning parents and residents .
He said : `` Once the initial shock of a car sales suddenly sprouting up right opposite the entrance to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we ended up with three or four points of concerns from residents and the schools themselves . ''
Committee chairman Mike Bird said he was `` very uncomfortable '' with the application .
He said : `` I 'd recommend refusal on highways grounds .
We are not in a position to control the type of vehicle making deliveries to the site .
`` There is restrained space for manoeuvring on the site and the proximity to the school presents a danger to the parents and children . ''
Councillor Adam Hicken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , added that he had no faith that any traffic management plan put in place would be adhered to .
After the meeting he said : `` The Carcart planning application for Cannock Road has failed .
It was a disaster waiting to happen .
`` I had no confidence that children would be safe trying to access the two primary schools .
Carcart ’ s plans left some serious questions unanswered .
Safety must come first . ''

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A car sales business that opened directly opposite two schools in Willenhall has been described as a "disaster waiting to happen".
Walsall Council's planning committee rejected a retrospective application by Carcart Ltd for their motor display and sales site on Cannock Road due to fears for the safety of parents and pupils of both New Invention Infant and New Invention Junior Schools.
Officers had recommended granting permission and said highways concerns could be controlled with a raft of planning conditions.
But members said they were worried that cars would be delivered on large transporters which would cause traffic problems and present a danger to those using the school.
Carcart started operating on the site last August and the property has previously been used as a toilet storage area and a builder's yard.
Willenhall North councillor Ian Shires made representations at the hearing on Thursday (March 5) and said issues such as deliveries taking place during the school run and congestion at the site was concerning parents and residents.
He said: "Once the initial shock of a car sales suddenly sprouting up right opposite the entrance to New Invention Infants and Juniors wore off, we ended up with three or four points of concerns from residents and the schools themselves."
Committee chairman Mike Bird said he was "very uncomfortable" with the application.
He said: "I'd recommend refusal on highways grounds. We are not in a position to control the type of vehicle making deliveries to the site.
"There is restrained space for manoeuvring on the site and the proximity to the school presents a danger to the parents and children."
Councillor Adam Hicken, committee member and Willenhall North councillor, added that he had no faith that any traffic management plan put in place would be adhered to.
After the meeting he said: "The Carcart planning application for Cannock Road has failed. It was a disaster waiting to happen.
"I had no confidence that children would be safe trying to access the two primary schools. Carcart’s plans left some serious questions unanswered. Safety must come first."


birminghammail--2020-03-06--'Vote for me as next West Midlands police chief - so I can sack myself' says city councillor

Birmingham councillor Jon Hunt is urging voters to back his candidacy as the next West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner - so he can abolish the `` money wasting '' post .
Cllr Hunt , leader of the city council 's Liberal Democrat group , said victory for him in the May election would signal the axing of the post .
He said he has watched `` with alarm '' as local police numbers decline in his ward , Perry Barr , while millions is spent to `` prop up the bureaucracy '' of the Police and Crime Commissioner .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote to get rid of the position and instead see it absorbed into the mayoral role , he said .
Oversight of the police could be achieved without a bespoke role , he added .
Cllr Hunt has been Liberal Democrat group leader in Birmingham since 2016 and was previously vice-chair of the West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority .
He has led the campaign against the demolition of the Perry Barr flyover - collecting 15,000 signatures and exposing the cost of the project .
He said : `` I 've been through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is clear that large sums are being spent on bureaucracy that should be spent on front-line policing .
`` It 's great news that more police are on the way but they must be deployed in our communities , reviving neighbourhood policing which is all but deceased .
`` As a local councillor I have seen first-hand the impact of the disappearance of the police from our communities .
The police have become more distant and the gangs are able to recruit young people unfettered .
This has to end . ''
Last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WMCA ) voted to throw out a scheme to scrap the role of police and crime commissioner ( PCC ) .
The plans , which were put forward by Mayor Andy Street , would have seen the mayoralty take charge of policing oversight from May 2020 .
It had received overwhelming public support in a consultation , but was voted down due to concerns from WMCA board members that the process had not been 'transparent ' .
The consultation was shrouded in controversy after a post from the Mayor 's account emerged encouraging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can to get us three , four , five or more responses '' .
Mr Street , who insists he had nothing to do with the post , was cleared of any wrongdoing in an independent investigation .
But it scuppered plans to merge the two roles , at least for now .
The PCC office has a budget of around £2.6 million .
The election takes place on May 7 , 2020 .
Declared candidates so far are Simon Foster ( Labour ) , Jay Singh-Sohal ( Conservatives ) and Julie Hambleton @ @ @ @

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Birmingham councillor Jon Hunt is urging voters to back his candidacy as the next West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner - so he can abolish the "money wasting" post.
Cllr Hunt, leader of the city council's Liberal Democrat group, said victory for him in the May election would signal the axing of the post.
He said he has watched "with alarm" as local police numbers decline in his ward, Perry Barr, while millions is spent to "prop up the bureaucracy" of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
A vote for him would be a vote to get rid of the position and instead see it absorbed into the mayoral role, he said.
Oversight of the police could be achieved without a bespoke role, he added.
Cllr Hunt has been Liberal Democrat group leader in Birmingham since 2016 and was previously vice-chair of the West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
He has led the campaign against the demolition of the Perry Barr flyover - collecting 15,000 signatures and exposing the cost of the project.
He said: "I've been through the West Midlands police commissioner accounts and it is clear that large sums are being spent on bureaucracy that should be spent on front-line policing.
"It's great news that more police are on the way but they must be deployed in our communities, reviving neighbourhood policing which is all but deceased.
"As a local councillor I have seen first-hand the impact of the disappearance of the police from our communities. The police have become more distant and the gangs are able to recruit young people unfettered. This has to end."
Last year the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) voted to throw out a scheme to scrap the role of police and crime commissioner (PCC).
The plans, which were put forward by Mayor Andy Street, would have seen the mayoralty take charge of policing oversight from May 2020.
It had received overwhelming public support in a consultation, but was voted down due to concerns from WMCA board members that the process had not been 'transparent'.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The consultation was shrouded in controversy after a post from the Mayor's account emerged encouraging Tory members to "do anything you can to get us three, four, five or more responses".
Mr Street, who insists he had nothing to do with the post, was cleared of any wrongdoing in an independent investigation.
But it scuppered plans to merge the two roles, at least for now.
The PCC office has a budget of around £2.6 million.
The election takes place on May 7, 2020.
Declared candidates so far are Simon Foster (Labour), Jay Singh-Sohal (Conservatives) and Julie Hambleton (Independent).


birminghammail--2020-03-06--Aston Villa transfer news live: Southampton join Cooper chase, Grealish to Man United latest

Hello and welcome to Thursday 's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you up to @ @ @ @ @ Villa news and views throughout the day .
Dean Smith 's side are n't back @ @ @ @ @ , when they head to Leicester City .
Villa are still reeling from the 2-1 @ @ @ @ @ City on Sunday , although that spirited performance has generated confidence among the claret and @ @ @ @ @ crucial games in their battle against the drop .
We 'll be looking ahead to @ @ @ @ @ the King Power Stadium as well as bringing you all the latest transfer news right @ @ @ @ @ date with all the latest news and views on the blog below ...

Hello and welcome to Friday's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive.
We will be keeping you up to date with all the latest Villa news and views throughout the day.
Dean Smith's side aren't back in action until Monday night, when they head to Leicester City.
Villa are still reeling from the 2-1 Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester City on Sunday, although that spirited performance has generated confidence among the claret and blue faithful ahead of 11 crucial games in their battle against the drop.
We'll be looking ahead to next week's trip to the King Power Stadium as well as bringing you all the latest transfer news right here.
Keep up to date with all the latest news and views on the blog below...


birminghammail--2020-03-06--G&Ts and a stroll - how Brit couple trapped inside Tenerife coronavirus hotel are spending their day

G&Ts and a stroll - how Brit couple trapped inside Tenerife coronavirus hotel are spending their days

Two Midlands pensioners trapped in a Tenerife hotel where guests have been diagnosed with coronavirus have spoken of their relaxing days of gin and tonics and garden strolls while waiting to return to the UK .
Chris and Jean Betts are unable to leave the H10 Costa Adeje Palace after an Italian doctor and members of his party staying in the hotel was diagnosed with COVID-19 and the complex was put on lockdown .
The OAPs , from Broughton Astley , Leicestershire , were due to return from a week long break on February 25 , reports LeicestershireLive .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Canary islands hotel awaiting the go-ahead for their return home .
Mr Betts , 73 , said : `` We 're in our third week and we are just going to sit it out now . ''
They are mixing with other guests , apart from the people infected who are isolated in their rooms , and are free to roam the grounds of the complex .
Mr Betts added : `` You 'd be surprised how quickly the days pass .
Nothing is a rush .
You get up at 8am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurant .
`` The morning fills up with phone calls trying to get everything sorted , cancelling our appointments back home .
We get to mooch around the lush gardens and then its back to the balcony for a nice gin and tonic . ''
However , he says a lack of information is annoying .
Mr Betts said : `` We had hoped to be able to come back already because the Foreign Office told us we could book flights but when we went down to reception the Spanish said we could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has always been we ca n't leave but there has been a lot of inconsistency between what the Foreign Office back home have said and what the consulate here tells us .
It is a bit frustrating because we have been here a long time now and we 'd like to get home . ''
The Betts have a flight booked for Tuesday .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Christopher Harper, Dan Martin, Brett Gibbons)

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Two Midlands pensioners trapped in a Tenerife hotel where guests have been diagnosed with coronavirus have spoken of their relaxing days of gin and tonics and garden strolls while waiting to return to the UK.
Chris and Jean Betts are unable to leave the H10 Costa Adeje Palace after an Italian doctor and members of his party staying in the hotel was diagnosed with COVID-19 and the complex was put on lockdown.
The OAPs, from Broughton Astley, Leicestershire, were due to return from a week long break on February 25, reports LeicestershireLive.
But they have been forced to stay at the Canary islands hotel awaiting the go-ahead for their return home.
(Image: (AP Photo))
Mr Betts, 73, said: "We're in our third week and we are just going to sit it out now."
They are mixing with other guests, apart from the people infected who are isolated in their rooms, and are free to roam the grounds of the complex.
Mr Betts added: "You'd be surprised how quickly the days pass. Nothing is a rush. You get up at 8am and have a nice breakfast in the restaurant.
"The morning fills up with phone calls trying to get everything sorted, cancelling our appointments back home. We get to mooch around the lush gardens and then its back to the balcony for a nice gin and tonic."
However, he says a lack of information is annoying.
Mr Betts said: "We had hoped to be able to come back already because the Foreign Office told us we could book flights but when we went down to reception the Spanish said we couldn't go.
"The Spanish line has always been we can't leave but there has been a lot of inconsistency between what the Foreign Office back home have said and what the consulate here tells us. It is a bit frustrating because we have been here a long time now and we'd like to get home."
The Betts have a flight booked for Tuesday.


birminghammail--2020-03-06--'Massive advantage' - How Wolves' run-in rates with Man Utd & the other top-four hopefuls

With just ten games to go , Wolverhampton Wanderers are firmly in the race to qualify for Champions League football next season .
Not only are they in the last-16 of the Europa League , just under two years after winning promotion , Wolves are just three points off the top-four .
Nuno Espirito Santo 's side have defied expectations and fears over 'second-season syndrome ' , burnout and 'doing a Burnley ' to be in perfect place for a memorable final two months of the campaign .
Last Sunday 's win over Spurs , paired with playing before any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that a comfortable home win over Brighton will see them jump into the top-four , albeit temporarily .
They currently find themselves just two points behind Chelsea in 4th and behind Manchester United on goal difference alone .
Behind Wolves , Spurs and surprise package Sheffield United are both sat on 40 points , although the Blades do have a game in hand .
Ahead of the final run-in , we 've taken a look at all of the teams involved and analysed who has the best run-in on paper .
And it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Each team will show current league position and ( average position of remaining opponents ) .
The bigger the number , the better !
If Wolves are to cap this stunning season with a top-four finish , the groundwork will likely be done in the next four fixtures .
Starting with tomorrow ’ s home game against Brighton , Wolves face four teams deep in the relegation mire .
After the Seagulls , Wolves travel to West Ham and Aston Villa , with a home game against Bournemouth sandwiched in between .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ side could amass a perfect 12 from 12 , before they host Arsenal in April , a big test , but one they will expect to pass .
Their last five see games against Sheffield United , Everton , Burnley , Palace and then a potentially monumental trip to Stamford Bridge on the final day .
Wolves have a potentially massive advantage , with , on paper , the easiest run-in .
The next month gives them an opportunity to build momentum the others may find difficult to cease .
Similarly to Wolves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong end of the division before the end of the season .
However , unlike their rivals from the Black Country , Chelsea play three teams in the top six , culminating of course with that game vs Wolves on the final day .
Before then , they have to play both Liverpool and Man City , as well as difficuly looking home games vs Everton and Sheffield United .
United have built up some momentum since the turn of the year , with Bruno Fernandes adding some much needed impetus in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be stunted however , with games against rivals City and Spurs , with forer boss Jose Mourinho in the opposition dugout .
They still have to reschedule a fixture against Sheffield United and play at Leicester City on the final day .
Elsewhere , they have a number of winnable fixtures , with home matches vs Bournemouth , Southampton and West Ham to come .
Defeat to Wolves was a major blow for Spurs as their opponent leapfrogged them in the race for the Champions League .
They have a tricky looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ host Man United .
Two bad results could all-but end their hopes and heighten the gloom around the north London .
With games against Sheffield United , Arsenal and Leicester also to come , Mourinho ’ s first season with Spurs could end on a sour note .
The Blades find themselves in eighth currently , but only by virtue of having a game in hand .
However , their run-in is by far the trickiest , with games against Spurs , Man United , Wolves , Chelsea , Leicester and Everton all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even be in the running for a top-four place in the first week of March is astonishing .
They will hope to continue the dream for as long as they can and their next two vs Norwich and Newcastle give them a chance to keep in touch .

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With just ten games to go, Wolverhampton Wanderers are firmly in the race to qualify for Champions League football next season.
Not only are they in the last-16 of the Europa League, just under two years after winning promotion, Wolves are just three points off the top-four.
Nuno Espirito Santo's side have defied expectations and fears over 'second-season syndrome', burnout and 'doing a Burnley' to be in perfect place for a memorable final two months of the campaign.
(Image: PA)
Last Sunday's win over Spurs, paired with playing before any of their rivals this weekend, means that a comfortable home win over Brighton will see them jump into the top-four, albeit temporarily.
They currently find themselves just two points behind Chelsea in 4th and behind Manchester United on goal difference alone. Behind Wolves, Spurs and surprise package Sheffield United are both sat on 40 points, although the Blades do have a game in hand.
Ahead of the final run-in, we've taken a look at all of the teams involved and analysed who has the best run-in on paper. And it makes good reading for hopeful Wolves fans.
Each team will show current league position and (average position of remaining opponents). The bigger the number, the better!
Wolves 6th (12.2)
If Wolves are to cap this stunning season with a top-four finish, the groundwork will likely be done in the next four fixtures.
Starting with tomorrow’s home game against Brighton, Wolves face four teams deep in the relegation mire. After the Seagulls, Wolves travel to West Ham and Aston Villa, with a home game against Bournemouth sandwiched in between.
Many will believe that Nuno’s side could amass a perfect 12 from 12, before they host Arsenal in April, a big test, but one they will expect to pass.
Their last five see games against Sheffield United, Everton, Burnley, Palace and then a potentially monumental trip to Stamford Bridge on the final day.
Wolves have a potentially massive advantage, with, on paper, the easiest run-in. The next month gives them an opportunity to build momentum the others may find difficult to cease.
Chelsea 4th (11.2)
Similarly to Wolves, Chelsea play four teams at the wrong end of the division before the end of the season. However, unlike their rivals from the Black Country, Chelsea play three teams in the top six, culminating of course with that game vs Wolves on the final day.
Before then, they have to play both Liverpool and Man City, as well as difficuly looking home games vs Everton and Sheffield United.
Man United 5th (11.3)
United have built up some momentum since the turn of the year, with Bruno Fernandes adding some much needed impetus in the centre of their midfield.
That momentum could be stunted however, with games against rivals City and Spurs, with forer boss Jose Mourinho in the opposition dugout.
(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
They still have to reschedule a fixture against Sheffield United and play at Leicester City on the final day. Elsewhere, they have a number of winnable fixtures, with home matches vs Bournemouth, Southampton and West Ham to come.
Spurs 7th (10.6)
Defeat to Wolves was a major blow for Spurs as their opponent leapfrogged them in the race for the Champions League.
They have a tricky looking visit to Burnley next, before they host Man United. Two bad results could all-but end their hopes and heighten the gloom around the north London.
With games against Sheffield United, Arsenal and Leicester also to come, Mourinho’s first season with Spurs could end on a sour note.
poll loading Can Wolves finish in the top four this season? 0+ VOTES SO FAR Yes They will fall short - top six No - Outside of top six
Sheffield United 8th (9.2)
The Blades find themselves in eighth currently, but only by virtue of having a game in hand. However, their run-in is by far the trickiest, with games against Spurs, Man United, Wolves, Chelsea, Leicester and Everton all on the horizon.
For them to even be in the running for a top-four place in the first week of March is astonishing. They will hope to continue the dream for as long as they can and their next two vs Norwich and Newcastle give them a chance to keep in touch.


birminghammail--2020-03-06--First Birmingham coronavirus patient discharged from hospital and self-isolating at home

The first Brummie to contract coronavirus has been discharged from hospital to continue their recovery at home , the city 's public health chief said today .
The patient will continue to 'self isolate ' , ensuring the virus does not spread further , and will have 'appropriate medical supervision ' , said Dr Justin Varney , Birmingham 's director of public health .
We told yesterday how the first case in the city had come to light earlier this week after a worker contracted the virus while attending a conference elsewhere in the country .
In a press briefing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March 5 , the patient was confirmed to have tested positive for Covid-19 .
The first case was confirmed in Birmingham on the same day regional airline Flybe collapsed , citing coronavirus as the final straw .
The patient , described only as a Birmingham resident `` of working age '' was taken to hospital and put into an infection control unit after the positive test , after complaining of a cold and respiratory symptoms .
These were not serious .
By this morning the patient was back home , but would continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living with the patient have also been self isolating since .
Neither have tested positive for the virus and neither has symptoms .
Dr Varney said the case was the first of what would likely be many .
“ We have long standing detailed plans ready to deal with for example pandemic flu and these have been updated and continue to be updated .
They consider and help us prepare for the worst case scenarios .
“ We will potentially see many more cases , including more deaths than we would normally see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to Birmingham so are prepared . ''
His message was clear : 'We ca n't disinfect the world - but you can wash your hands well , stop touching your face and stop greeting with a kiss . '
He urged people not to panic or worry unduly , particularly as the case was 'contained ' and highly unlikely to trigger other cases .
`` There is no greater risk now in Birmingham than elsewhere and there is no need to panic .
The advice you need to prevent infection Dr Varney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people of the vital importance of good , regular hand washing and to encourage people to avoid social greetings - try not to be too European with kisses on both cheeks , or hugs , and even shaking hands .
`` Regular hand washing with soap and water is the key . ''
A city council-led Coronavirus Preparedness Group was set up and had been meeting weekly to stay on top of national advice and to ensure businesses , schools and universities were well informed and taking steps to prevent an outbreak , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working closely with our business community in particular .
The city is prepared .
`` We have been working closely with the rest of the council , Mayor 's office and the chambers of commerce to support business resilience , particularly when sickness levels start to rise and events are affected .
`` What has been very encouraging is how well everyone is working together .
There is nothing like a crisis to bring us all together . ''

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The first Brummie to contract coronavirus has been discharged from hospital to continue their recovery at home, the city's public health chief said today.
The patient will continue to 'self isolate', ensuring the virus does not spread further, and will have 'appropriate medical supervision', said Dr Justin Varney, Birmingham's director of public health.
We told yesterday how the first case in the city had come to light earlier this week after a worker contracted the virus while attending a conference elsewhere in the country.
In a press briefing at Birmingham City Council on Thursday, March 5, the patient was confirmed to have tested positive for Covid-19 .
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
The first case was confirmed in Birmingham on the same day regional airline Flybe collapsed, citing coronavirus as the final straw .
The patient, described only as a Birmingham resident "of working age" was taken to hospital and put into an infection control unit after the positive test, after complaining of a cold and respiratory symptoms. These were not serious.
By this morning the patient was back home, but would continue to self isolate.
Two other people living with the patient have also been self isolating since. Neither have tested positive for the virus and neither has symptoms.
Dr Varney said the case was the first of what would likely be many.
“We have long standing detailed plans ready to deal with for example pandemic flu and these have been updated and continue to be updated. They consider and help us prepare for the worst case scenarios.
“We will potentially see many more cases, including more deaths than we would normally see.
“We have known it will come to Birmingham so are prepared."
His message was clear: 'We can't disinfect the world - but you can wash your hands well, stop touching your face and stop greeting with a kiss.'
He urged people not to panic or worry unduly, particularly as the case was 'contained' and highly unlikely to trigger other cases.
"There is no greater risk now in Birmingham than elsewhere and there is no need to panic.
The advice you need to prevent infection
Dr Varney said: "We want to remind people of the vital importance of good, regular hand washing and to encourage people to avoid social greetings - try not to be too European with kisses on both cheeks, or hugs, and even shaking hands.
"Regular hand washing with soap and water is the key."
A city council-led Coronavirus Preparedness Group was set up and had been meeting weekly to stay on top of national advice and to ensure businesses, schools and universities were well informed and taking steps to prevent an outbreak, he said.
"We have been working closely with our business community in particular. The city is prepared.
"We have been working closely with the rest of the council, Mayor's office and the chambers of commerce to support business resilience, particularly when sickness levels start to rise and events are affected.
"What has been very encouraging is how well everyone is working together. There is nothing like a crisis to bring us all together."


birminghammail--2020-03-06--Co-op, M&S, Mars and Coca-Cola urgently recall products and offer refunds

A string of popular retailers are urgently recalling food items once again this weekend - and you 're being implored to check if you 're affected .
Shoppers and customers across Birmingham and beyond could find themselves at risk of health issues relating to the goods .
The food items - and , in certain cases , drinks - have been withdrawn from shelves by a variety of retailers , including the likes of the Co-operative .
The Co-op is recalling chicken and stuffing sandwiches , which are shop made and popular among customers .
Elsewhere , Coca-Cola and Mars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to products , which are massively popular .
Revels are being recalled as a matter of urgency by the former company , which is a renowned confectionery giant .
Each week , the Food Standards Agency ( FSA ) website lists the foods and drinks affected by the recalls .
Below we have details of each .
Co-op is recalling Chicken and Stuffing Sandwich due to the possible presence of metal .
The possible presence of metal makes this product unsafe to eat .
Co-op is recalling the above product due to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sale notices will be displayed in retail stores that are selling this product .
These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product .
If you have bought the above product do not eat it .
Instead , return the product to nearest Co-op store for a refund or contact : 0800 0686 727 / customer.careline @ coop.co.uk Marks & Spencer is recalling M & S Chicken Bites because they contain egg which is not mentioned on the label @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible health risk for anyone with an allergy or intolerance to egg .
If you have bought the above product and have an allergy or intolerance to egg do not eat it .
Instead return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund .
Marks & Spencer is recalling the above product from customers and has contacted 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 .
These notices explain to customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell them what to do if they have bought the products .
Jeff the Chef Foods Ltd is recalling a variety of Chicken Parmo and Doner Kebab products because they have been labelled with a ‘ use by ’ date of 1 April 2020 or 2 April 2020 instead of 1 March 2020 or 2 March 2020 .
Are you a fan of Revels ?
Well , you may want to check the fridge - or cupboard - or wherever you keep your favourite chocolate treats .
You see , Revels manufacturer Mars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the favourite .
The treats are being withdrawn from shelves amid serious health risk fears .
The company has confirmed bags of Revels are being recalled , issuing a statement via the Food Standards Agency ( FSA ) .
Some Revels pouches may contain small pieces of metal due to a mechanical breakdown , a statement says .
The company confirmed no other products are said to be affected .
The affected items are Revels bags weigh in in at 101g .
They carry best before dates of 31.01.2021 and batch codes 006C2SLO00 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the products listed above , Mars is advising you please keep the product and contact their Consumer Care team .
Refunds can then be arranged .
For more information or to return , freephone call 0800 952 0084 , email : www.mars.co.uk/contactus or write to FREEPOST MARS WRIGLEY CONFECTIONERY UK LTD. Revels were first introduced into the United Kingdom in 1967 .
Originally , Revels had orange creme , coconut , toffee , or peanut centres , along with Galaxy Counters ( Minstrels minus exterior shell ) and Maltesers .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coffee creme , and the peanuts with raisins .
The firm has withdrawn Thums Up Cola from shelves - because it contains celery which is not mentioned on the label .
This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to celery .
The recall relates to products with a 18 September 2019 manufacture date .
Coca-Cola European Partners 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tells them what to do if they have bought the products .
If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to celery , do not drink it .
Consumers should call 0800 227711 to arrange reimbursement .
The Food Standards Agency website warns : `` Sometimes there will be a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold .
`` Then it might be 'withdrawn ' ( taken off the shelves ) or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to return the product ) .
`` Sometimes foods have to be withdrawn or recalled if there is a risk to consumers because the allergy labelling is missing or incorrect or if there is any other food allergy risk .
`` When there is a food allergy risk , the FSA will issue an Allergy Alert . ''

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A string of popular retailers are urgently recalling food items once again this weekend - and you're being implored to check if you're affected.
Shoppers and customers across Birmingham and beyond could find themselves at risk of health issues relating to the goods.
The food items - and, in certain cases, drinks - have been withdrawn from shelves by a variety of retailers, including the likes of the Co-operative.
The Co-op is recalling chicken and stuffing sandwiches, which are shop made and popular among customers.
Elsewhere, Coca-Cola and Mars will both be offering full refunds relating to products, which are massively popular.
Revels are being recalled as a matter of urgency by the former company, which is a renowned confectionery giant.
Each week, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website lists the foods and drinks affected by the recalls.
Below we have details of each.
Co-op - sandwiches
Co-op is recalling Chicken and Stuffing Sandwich due to the possible presence of metal. The possible presence of metal makes this product unsafe to eat.
Co-op is recalling the above product due to the possible presence of metal. Point of sale notices will be displayed in retail stores that are selling this product. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.
If you have bought the above product do not eat it. Instead, return the product to nearest Co-op store for a refund or contact: 0800 0686 727 / customer.careline@coop.co.uk
M&S - chicken bites
Marks & Spencer is recalling M&S Chicken Bites because they contain egg which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy or intolerance to egg.
If you have bought the above product and have an allergy or intolerance to egg do not eat it. Instead return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund.
Marks & Spencer is recalling the above product from customers and has contacted 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. These notices explain to customers why the products are being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the products.
Jeff the Chef
(Image: Ian Cooper)
Jeff the Chef Foods Ltd is recalling a variety of Chicken Parmo and Doner Kebab products because they have been labelled with a ‘use by’ date of 1 April 2020 or 2 April 2020 instead of 1 March 2020 or 2 March 2020.
Chicken Parmo – Hot Shot
Pack size 490g
Batch code 240220
Chicken Parmo
Pack size 450g
Batch code 240220
Chicken Parmo - Minis
Pack size 350g
Batch code 240220
Doner Kebab - Garlic
Pack size 290g
Batch code 240220
Doner Kebab – Chilli
Pack size 290g
Batch code 240220
Mars - Revels
Are you a fan of Revels? Well, you may want to check the fridge - or cupboard - or wherever you keep your favourite chocolate treats.
You see, Revels manufacturer Mars Wrigley UK is urgently recalling pouches of the favourite.
The treats are being withdrawn from shelves amid serious health risk fears.
The company has confirmed bags of Revels are being recalled, issuing a statement via the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Some Revels pouches may contain small pieces of metal due to a mechanical breakdown, a statement says.
The company confirmed no other products are said to be affected.
The affected items are Revels bags weigh in in at 101g.
They carry best before dates of 31.01.2021 and batch codes 006C2SLO00 and 006D1SLO00.
If you have one of the products listed above, Mars is advising you please keep the product and contact their Consumer Care team.
Refunds can then be arranged. For more information or to return, freephone call 0800 952 0084, email: www.mars.co.uk/contactus or write to FREEPOST MARS WRIGLEY CONFECTIONERY UK LTD.
Revels were first introduced into the United Kingdom in 1967.
Originally, Revels had orange creme, coconut, toffee, or peanut centres, along with Galaxy Counters (Minstrels minus exterior shell) and Maltesers.
However, the coconut centres were later replaced with coffee creme, and the peanuts with raisins.
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola European Partners is recalling a popular drink this week.
The firm has withdrawn Thums Up Cola from shelves - because it contains celery which is not mentioned on the label.
This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to celery.
The recall relates to products with a 18 September 2019 manufacture date.
Coca-Cola European Partners 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. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tells them what to do if they have bought the products.
If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to celery, do not drink it. Consumers should call 0800 227711 to arrange reimbursement.
The Food Standards Agency website warns: "Sometimes there will be a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold.
"Then it might be 'withdrawn' (taken off the shelves) or 'recalled' (when customers are asked to return the product).
"Sometimes foods have to be withdrawn or recalled if there is a risk to consumers because the allergy labelling is missing or incorrect or if there is any other food allergy risk.
"When there is a food allergy risk, the FSA will issue an Allergy Alert."


birminghammail--2020-03-06--Premier League side join Aston Villa in race for Championship star - report

Millwall defender Jake Cooper is a top target for Aston Villa 's Premier League rivals Southampton after Dean Smith 's side were linked with the centre-back , according to reports .
It was reported last month that Villa were interested in a move for the 25-year-old , while Rangers have also been credited with an interest in Cooper .
Now Football Insider have said Ralph Hasenhuttl 's Saints have turned their attentions toward the former Reading man ahead of the re-opening of the transfer window in the summer .
Cooper , who was the subject of a £3 million bid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't missed a minute of Millwall 's Championship campaign this season as Gary Rowett 's side mount a late play-off charge .
Bracknell-born Cooper came through the ranks at Reading before moving to Millwall on loan in January 2017 .
He then made a permanent move to The Den in July of 2017 and has made 149 appearances for Millwall , scoring 12 goals .
Millwall 's rigid defence has formed the backbone of their push for a top six place and only the top five clubs in the division have conceded less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conceded 52 goals in the top flight - more than any club .
The club have four senior centre-backs on their books , Kortney Hause , Tyrone Mings , Ezri Konsa and Bjorn Engels .

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Millwall defender Jake Cooper is a top target for Aston Villa's Premier League rivals Southampton after Dean Smith's side were linked with the centre-back, according to reports.
It was reported last month that Villa were interested in a move for the 25-year-old, while Rangers have also been credited with an interest in Cooper.
Now Football Insider have said Ralph Hasenhuttl's Saints have turned their attentions toward the former Reading man ahead of the re-opening of the transfer window in the summer.
Cooper, who was the subject of a £3 million bid from Rangers two years ago, hasn't missed a minute of Millwall's Championship campaign this season as Gary Rowett's side mount a late play-off charge.
Bracknell-born Cooper came through the ranks at Reading before moving to Millwall on loan in January 2017.
He then made a permanent move to The Den in July of 2017 and has made 149 appearances for Millwall, scoring 12 goals.
Millwall's rigid defence has formed the backbone of their push for a top six place and only the top five clubs in the division have conceded less goals.
Villa , meanwhile, have conceded 52 goals in the top flight - more than any club.
The club have four senior centre-backs on their books, Kortney Hause, Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa and Bjorn Engels.


birminghammail--2020-03-06--A Tamworth makeup salon is blushing at its top national award nomination just months after opening

Makeup salons up and down the country dream of being a contender for the The English Hair and Beauty Awards every year .
Tamworth salon The Makeup House has been shortlisted this year for Best makeup Salon , despite only opening in June 2019 .
I spent an afternoon with the girls who brought the salon to life , turning a dream into reality after the founder quit her job , sold her family home and ‘ took the plunge ’ .
As I got out of the car on a cold , rainy , miserable afternoon at the picturesque @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in makeup heaven when I walked through the door and up the stairs of the converted barn , home to The Makeup House ( TMH ) .
I was met by founder Charley Westwood , whose infectious smile and warm personality put me at ease straight away .
I felt like I ’ d known her for years , I didn ’ t feel intimidated like I do in a busy makeup hall .
As we sat down , 29-year-old Charley told me the story of The Makeup House .
“ One day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to quit my job , sell my family home and make my dream a reality , ” she explained .
“ I used to get my nails done in this barn and I always said one day I would own a salon here .
I asked the farmer to let me know when something came available and one day I just took the plunge and decided to give it a go .
“ The business is split into three elements .
The Makeup House is the Guild of Beauty Therapists-accredited makeup school .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ master courses , which we say is more like a makeup hen do .
“ But it ’ s more than just teaching makeup .
We create a warm environment and focus on empowerment and confidence .
We just want everyone to come and have a lovely time .
“ My priority is that you feel comfortable here .
I have created an atmosphere that is chic , friendly and inviting .
It is important to me that everyone feels welcomed and relaxed and you ’ ll leave feeling part of the TMH @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all abilities and we want to encourage diversity , we ’ ve even had ladies up to 75 years old.
” It has always been Charley ’ s dream to create her own all-encompassing makeup hub ; part-makeup studio , part-training school , part-talent agency , as well as a creative space where people from the makeup and beauty world can work and feel inspired .
She wanted somewhere to share the incredible tips and industry knowledge she has picked up throughout her career and somewhere to pass them on to aspiring makeup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make the most of their makeup bag .
As part of the business , Charley runs a talent agency for temporary flexible staff with her fiance James .
She said : “ At the minute we have 12 to 15 temporary staff that companies like John Lewis ask for when they are short staffed or have a special event on .
It ’ s fabulous the girls and guys on our books are passionate and enjoy makeup .
It ’ s more than just a job to them and they all share our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by makeup artists Charlotte Swadkin and Gracie Charteris at The Makeup House .
The girls were in complete shock when they found out they were nominated for Best Makeup Salon of the year .
Charley said : “ We had no idea .
I received a phone call to say we had received an outstanding amount of votes and we had made the final .
“ It ’ s lovely recognition and it has given us a big boost and it ’ s really exciting.
” The girls now want to grow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level .
They want to be known as the destination for makeup .
All the girls have years of experience in makeup and pride themselves on timeless hardcore glam .
Makeup artist Charlotte said : “ The majority of people who attend our courses talk about confidence and self-esteem .
It ’ s amazing to see the transformation and see everyone grow each day.
” Charley added : “ We want people to go away and be able to make money from what they ’ ve learned whilst they ’ re with us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go round so it ’ s all about working together .
It ’ s not a competition .
At the end of the course we run a Q & A session about running your own business to help set everyone up .
“ We all collaborate and get ideas off each other .
We want everyone to know they can do it and it can get very deep and emotional .
“ We share stories and support each other .
We sit on the floor with pizza and Prosecco and just have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TMH experience myself when makeup artist Charlotte did a full glam look on me , while we spoke about outfits and glam looks for the big awards night .
She made me feel a million dollars as she combined a coral lip with a subtle eye shadow and a strong power brow .
My skin looked flawless and I really did feel confident and empowered .
The girls are now looking ahead to the awards on March 22 and planning looks for the night .
Charley said : “ We are up against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re more bothered about testimonials and positive feedback than the number of Instagram posts and followers we have .
“ What matters to us is when girls or guys are here they are having a lovely time .
They are paying for the whole experience and everyone learns off eachother .
“ It would be such an honour to win , we have everything crossed !
” For more information and to book in with Charley and The Makeup House girls visit www.themakeup-house.co.uk We have everything crossed for you , girls @

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Makeup salons up and down the country dream of being a contender for the The English Hair and Beauty Awards every year. Tamworth salon The Makeup House has been shortlisted this year for Best makeup Salon, despite only opening in June 2019.
I spent an afternoon with the girls who brought the salon to life, turning a dream into reality after the founder quit her job, sold her family home and ‘took the plunge’.
As I got out of the car on a cold, rainy, miserable afternoon at the picturesque Middleton House Farm I soon found myself in makeup heaven when I walked through the door and up the stairs of the converted barn, home to The Makeup House (TMH).
I was met by founder Charley Westwood, whose infectious smile and warm personality put me at ease straight away. I felt like I’d known her for years, I didn’t feel intimidated like I do in a busy makeup hall.
As we sat down, 29-year-old Charley told me the story of The Makeup House.
“One day when I was at work I decided to quit my job, sell my family home and make my dream a reality,” she explained.
“I used to get my nails done in this barn and I always said one day I would own a salon here. I asked the farmer to let me know when something came available and one day I just took the plunge and decided to give it a go.
“The business is split into three elements. The Makeup House is the Guild of Beauty Therapists-accredited makeup school. We run one-day master courses and one-week master courses, which we say is more like a makeup hen do.
“But it’s more than just teaching makeup. We create a warm environment and focus on empowerment and confidence. We just want everyone to come and have a lovely time.
“My priority is that you feel comfortable here. I have created an atmosphere that is chic, friendly and inviting. It is important to me that everyone feels welcomed and relaxed and you’ll leave feeling part of the TMH family.
“Our classes are for all abilities and we want to encourage diversity, we’ve even had ladies up to 75 years old.”
It has always been Charley’s dream to create her own all-encompassing makeup hub; part-makeup studio, part-training school, part-talent agency, as well as a creative space where people from the makeup and beauty world can work and feel inspired. She wanted somewhere to share the incredible tips and industry knowledge she has picked up throughout her career and somewhere to pass them on to aspiring makeup artists and anyone who just want to make the most of their makeup bag.
As part of the business, Charley runs a talent agency for temporary flexible staff with her fiance James.
She said: “At the minute we have 12 to 15 temporary staff that companies like John Lewis ask for when they are short staffed or have a special event on. It’s fabulous the girls and guys on our books are passionate and enjoy makeup. It’s more than just a job to them and they all share our passion and love.”
Charley is joined by makeup artists Charlotte Swadkin and Gracie Charteris at The Makeup House. The girls were in complete shock when they found out they were nominated for Best Makeup Salon of the year.
Charley said: “We had no idea. I received a phone call to say we had received an outstanding amount of votes and we had made the final.
“It’s lovely recognition and it has given us a big boost and it’s really exciting.”
The girls now want to grow the business and take it to the next level. They want to be known as the destination for makeup.
All the girls have years of experience in makeup and pride themselves on timeless hardcore glam.
Makeup artist Charlotte said: “The majority of people who attend our courses talk about confidence and self-esteem. It’s amazing to see the transformation and see everyone grow each day.”
Charley added: “We want people to go away and be able to make money from what they’ve learned whilst they’re with us. There’s enough business to go round so it’s all about working together. It’s not a competition. At the end of the course we run a Q&A session about running your own business to help set everyone up.
“We all collaborate and get ideas off each other. We want everyone to know they can do it and it can get very deep and emotional.
“We share stories and support each other. We sit on the floor with pizza and Prosecco and just have a chat.”
I even got the full TMH experience myself when makeup artist Charlotte did a full glam look on me, while we spoke about outfits and glam looks for the big awards night. She made me feel a million dollars as she combined a coral lip with a subtle eye shadow and a strong power brow.
My skin looked flawless and I really did feel confident and empowered.
The girls are now looking ahead to the awards on March 22 and planning looks for the night.
Charley said: “We are up against some amazing salons. But for us we’re more bothered about testimonials and positive feedback than the number of Instagram posts and followers we have.
“What matters to us is when girls or guys are here they are having a lovely time. They are paying for the whole experience and everyone learns off eachother.
“It would be such an honour to win, we have everything crossed!”
For more information and to book in with Charley and The Makeup House girls visit www.themakeup-house.co.uk
We have everything crossed for you, girls!