birminghammail--2020-09-24--Aston Villa player ratings as Traore oozes class in cup victory

Aston Villa have cruised into the last-16 with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Championship high-fliers Bristol City .
It was new £19 million signing Bertrand Traore who stole the show with a phenomenal first-time finish to put the game out of sight just 14 minutes into proceedings .
The Burkinabe caressed home Jacob Ramsey 's beautifully-weighted pass to make it 2-0 .
Prior to Villa 's second , Keinan Davis set up Anwar El Ghazi to tap home while , just seconds after coming on in the second half , Ollie Watkins finished to make it 3-0 .
Here 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a professional performance at Ashton Gate : His first competitive appearance since snapping his Achilles 10 months ago at Wolves .
Did n't have a fat lot to do .
Always stayed concentrated and claimed well from crosses .
Should play next week against Stoke City .
In from the cold after being unused vs Burton in the previous round .
Worked well with Traore in front of him .
Did allow Eliasson to whip in one delivery too many in the first 45 but , overall , was a steady Freddie .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Konsa and Mings .
Skippered the side and looked assured as always .
Good in the air and composed on the deck .
Always talking .
Continued to make the right decisions .
Very good considering he was played out of position .
Up against a decent Championship forward in Diedhiou , too .
Largely sloppy given others around him had their pipes out and slippers on .
Gave the ball away far too often and in needless situations in the first half .
Settled down later on as Bristol looked a beaten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't take too many risks .
Kept Fulham loanee Sessegnon in check and always looked inside to the likes of Ramsey and Nakamba showing .
More minutes in the tank for Matt Targett 's understudy .
Villa 's pivot in midfield .
Always in that anchorman role and kept his position well .
Mopped up bits and bobs and allowed Lansbury and Ramsey to play with Davis , El Ghazi and Traore .
Tried an audacious through-ball which did n't find El Ghazi .
His bread and butter are those five-yard passes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ time again as he squeezed Bristol keeper O'Leary .
His pressing allowed Villa to win the ball back in high areas .
Showcased his usual cross-field passes and was unlucky not to provide an assist for El Ghazi who mis-controlled Lansbury 's beautiful , cutting ball .
Replaced by Hourihane after a good shift .
An experienced head on young shoulders .
Looks right at home in a Villa shirt .
The Great Barr youngster oozed class and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet after Rowe 's blatant tug back .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ once , such was his matureness and confidence on the ball .
Assisted Traore with a delightful chipped pass .
Should play again next week against Stoke City at Villa Park .
I am , though , expecting him to go out on loan on October 16 .
Went close late on .
Pick that out !
What a stunning goal on debut .
The £19 million recruit looks a breath of fresh air .
Confident , classy and pure quality on the ball .
His finish was straight out of the top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start to finish .
A big frame for a winger , too , while he has pace and grace .
Pushing for a place at Fulham .
Came off with 20 to go , though , having appeared to take a knock to his ankle .
Fresh from signing a new four-year deal , Keinan Davis put in an astute performance .
From cute chest-downs to flicks round the corner and even a Cryuff turn or two , Davis really enjoyed himself on his first start this season .
Morphed into an Eden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa 's first , making a mug out of Bristol City 's Tommy Rowe .
A solid peef Started off a bit flat but his goal after 11 minutes really fired him up .
The Dutchman 's touch was immaculate and he remained a threat down Villa 's right side .
Almost assisted Ramsey who had his shirt pulled back .
Must have had about six shots on goal - all of which found the back of the stands .
Did all right and kept Bristol 's right side thinking .
Released by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deflection and it arrowed straight into Watkins ' path for Villa 's third .
Appears to have a fight on his hands for Villa 's starting right-wing spot given the emergence of Traore .
Showed his usual energy .
Just seconds after coming on , Watkins did what he does best by tapping home from six yards out to convert Trezeguet 's deflected shot .
Almost scored a second when he turned and unleashed a powerful drive at O'Leary who was equal to it .
Had a late penalty shout as well when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a threat as he always does .

Aston Villa have cruised into the last-16 with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Championship high-fliers Bristol City.
It was new £19 million signing Bertrand Traore who stole the show with a phenomenal first-time finish to put the game out of sight just 14 minutes into proceedings.
The Burkinabe caressed home Jacob Ramsey's beautifully-weighted pass to make it 2-0. Prior to Villa's second, Keinan Davis set up Anwar El Ghazi to tap home while, just seconds after coming on in the second half, Ollie Watkins finished to make it 3-0.
Here's how we rated Villa's players after a professional performance at Ashton Gate:
STARTING FORMATION
4-3-3
PLAYERS
STEER 7
His first competitive appearance since snapping his Achilles 10 months ago at Wolves. Didn't have a fat lot to do. Always stayed concentrated and claimed well from crosses. Should play next week against Stoke City.
GUILBERT 6.5
In from the cold after being unused vs Burton in the previous round. Worked well with Traore in front of him. Did allow Eliasson to whip in one delivery too many in the first 45 but, overall, was a steady Freddie.
ELMOHAMADY 7.5
Surprisingly in at centre-back as Smith rested Konsa and Mings. Skippered the side and looked assured as always. Good in the air and composed on the deck. Always talking. Continued to make the right decisions. Very good considering he was played out of position. Up against a decent Championship forward in Diedhiou, too.
HAUSE 5.5
Largely sloppy given others around him had their pipes out and slippers on. Gave the ball away far too often and in needless situations in the first half. Settled down later on as Bristol looked a beaten team.
TAYLOR 6.5
Neat and tidy. Didn't take too many risks. Kept Fulham loanee Sessegnon in check and always looked inside to the likes of Ramsey and Nakamba showing. More minutes in the tank for Matt Targett's understudy.
NAKAMBA 7
Villa's pivot in midfield. Always in that anchorman role and kept his position well. Mopped up bits and bobs and allowed Lansbury and Ramsey to play with Davis, El Ghazi and Traore. Tried an audacious through-ball which didn't find El Ghazi. His bread and butter are those five-yard passes.
LANSBURY 7.5
Sprinted like a man possessed time and time again as he squeezed Bristol keeper O'Leary. His pressing allowed Villa to win the ball back in high areas. Showcased his usual cross-field passes and was unlucky not to provide an assist for El Ghazi who mis-controlled Lansbury's beautiful, cutting ball. Replaced by Hourihane after a good shift.
RAMSEY 7.5
An experienced head on young shoulders. Looks right at home in a Villa shirt. The Great Barr youngster oozed class and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet after Rowe's blatant tug back. Didn't see him lose the ball once, such was his matureness and confidence on the ball. Assisted Traore with a delightful chipped pass. Should play again next week against Stoke City at Villa Park. I am, though, expecting him to go out on loan on October 16. Went close late on.
TRAORE 8*
Pick that out! What a stunning goal on debut. The £19 million recruit looks a breath of fresh air. Confident, classy and pure quality on the ball. His finish was straight out of the top drawer. Thought he was excellent from start to finish. A big frame for a winger, too, while he has pace and grace. Pushing for a place at Fulham. Came off with 20 to go, though, having appeared to take a knock to his ankle.
DAVIS 8
Fresh from signing a new four-year deal, Keinan Davis put in an astute performance. From cute chest-downs to flicks round the corner and even a Cryuff turn or two, Davis really enjoyed himself on his first start this season. Morphed into an Eden Hazard to tee up El Ghazi for Villa's first, making a mug out of Bristol City's Tommy Rowe. A solid peef
EL GHAZI 7
Started off a bit flat but his goal after 11 minutes really fired him up. The Dutchman's touch was immaculate and he remained a threat down Villa's right side. Almost assisted Ramsey who had his shirt pulled back. Must have had about six shots on goal - all of which found the back of the stands. Did all right and kept Bristol's right side thinking.
SUBSTITUTES
TREZEGUET (FOR TRAORE, 70) 6.5
Released by El Ghazi before his shot took a deflection and it arrowed straight into Watkins' path for Villa's third. Appears to have a fight on his hands for Villa's starting right-wing spot given the emergence of Traore. Showed his usual energy.
WATKINS (FOR DAVIS, 70) 7
Just seconds after coming on, Watkins did what he does best by tapping home from six yards out to convert Trezeguet's deflected shot. Almost scored a second when he turned and unleashed a powerful drive at O'Leary who was equal to it. Had a late penalty shout as well when shoved by Vyner when one-on-one. Looked a threat as he always does.
HOURIHANE (FOR LANSBURY, 78) 6
Made sure Villa weren't sloppy late on.
NOT USED: Kalinic, Mings, McGinn, Targett.
OPPOSITION
Bristol City, 3-5-2: O'Leary; Vyner, Moore, Rowe; Sessegnon, Nagy, Palmer (Noah-Massengo, 84), Brunt (Bakinson, 65), Eliasson; Diedhiou (Martin, 84), Semenyo. Subs: Bentley, Mawson, Paterson, Wells.
THE REF: James Linington
NEXT UP: Fulham (a), Premier League, Monday, September 28, 5.45pm kick-off


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Done deal: Birmingham City agree Steve Seddon loan deal

Birmingham City have agreed to allow Steve Seddon to go out on loan for the 2020/2021 campaign .
The 22-year-old has returned to League One outfit AFC Wimbledon – where he spent a productive spell in 2019 .
Seddon has been an unused substitute in two of Blues ’ three games this season and is keen to play first team football .
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter here He has done that on five occasions for Blues – but not at all for his parent club since the start of last season when Pep Clotet used him as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the second half of the previous campaign with Portsmouth for whom he made 18 appearances as Kenny Jackett ’ s men reached the League One play-offs .
Before that he was an important part of the Wimbledon team which dodged League One relegation in 2018/2019 .
Seddon joined Blues from Reading as a scholar in 2014 and has come through the age groups since then .
He joins Connal Trueman who is also at The Dons for the season , while Ryan Burke is on loan with Vanarama National League side Yeovil Town @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Birmingham City have agreed to allow Steve Seddon to go out on loan for the 2020/2021 campaign.
The 22-year-old has returned to League One outfit AFC Wimbledon – where he spent a productive spell in 2019.
Seddon has been an unused substitute in two of Blues’ three games this season and is keen to play first team football.
He has done that on five occasions for Blues – but not at all for his parent club since the start of last season when Pep Clotet used him as a wing back.
Indeed he spent the second half of the previous campaign with Portsmouth for whom he made 18 appearances as Kenny Jackett’s men reached the League One play-offs.
Before that he was an important part of the Wimbledon team which dodged League One relegation in 2018/2019.
Seddon joined Blues from Reading as a scholar in 2014 and has come through the age groups since then.
He joins Connal Trueman who is also at The Dons for the season, while Ryan Burke is on loan with Vanarama National League side Yeovil Town, while Remeao Hutton is at Stevenage.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Aston Villa fans go nuts over 'ridiculous' Bertrand Traore moment

Bertrand Traore announced his return to English football with a stunning debut goal for Aston Villa .
The winger joined Villa in a £17million deal from French side Lyon last week and watched Monday 's Premier League win against Sheffield United from the stands .
Dean Smith changed his entire starting XI for tonight 's Carabao Cup tie at Bristol City with Traore given his first taste of football on these shores since leaving Chelsea three years ago .
It did n't take the 25-year-old long to make an impact , scoring a brilliant goal to put Villa 2-0 up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following Anwar El Ghazi 's opener .
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Google Play Store and App Store Traore got on the end of a chipped pass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ball into the far corner with his weaker right foot .
The clash was n't chosen for live TV coverage and fans were left stunned when footage of the goal was shared on social media .
Nick Holmberg : With his weak foot too .
My god .
That was sweet .
Nick : The most casual goal I 've ever seen I think .
Stevie Green : Just watching this goal on repeat for the rest of the night .
Tomlxnee : It ’ s how he makes it look so effortless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Traore .
Bozzy : Great half from Villa .
Could n't be any more comfortable .
The goal from Traore was brilliant .
James Terry : What a goal that is !

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birminghammail--2020-09-24--40 firefighters battle blaze at four-storey derelict building in town centre

West Midlands Fire Service is currently tackling a huge blaze at a derelict building in Walsall .
The four-storey property @ @ @ @ @ a former leather factory located on Marsh Street , in the town centre .
Six @ @ @ @ @ are currently trying to control the flames after they were called to the scene at @ @ @ @ @ September 24 ) .
The site is next to waterfront apartments and close to Walsall @ @ @ @ @ as the town ’ s Light Cinema and a variety of bars and restaurants .
@ @ @ @ @ apartment block shows the flames ripping through the disused factory .
The cause of the @ @ @ @ @ and it is not clear if anyone is hurt .
A spokesman for West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ We are currently dealing with a fire in a four-storey derelict building in Marsh Street @ @ @ @ @ engines and one hydraulic platform in use , with approximately 40 firefighters .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ to keep their windows closed whilst we deal with the incident . ''

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West Midlands Fire Service is currently tackling a huge blaze at a derelict building in Walsall.
The four-storey property is believed to have been a former leather factory located on Marsh Street, in the town centre.
Six fire engines and 40 firefighters are currently trying to control the flames after they were called to the scene at 18.24pm, this evening (September 24).
The site is next to waterfront apartments and close to Walsall Art Gallery, as well as the town’s Light Cinema and a variety of bars and restaurants.
Footage recorded from a nearby apartment block shows the flames ripping through the disused factory.
The cause of the fire is not yet known and it is not clear if anyone is hurt.
A spokesman for West Midlands Fire Service said: "We are currently dealing with a fire in a four-storey derelict building in Marsh Street. We have six fire engines and one hydraulic platform in use, with approximately 40 firefighters.
"We ask residents in the vicinity to keep their windows closed whilst we deal with the incident."


birminghammail--2020-09-24--West Brom stance on shock Emmanuel Adebayor transfer rumour

BirminghamLive understands there is no substance to reports linking West Bromwich Albion with a move for former Arsenal and Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor .
Adebayor , now 36 , is currently without a club after leaving Paraguayan side Olimpia in July due to concerns about travelling during the coronavirus pandemic .
Reports in the national press on Thursday claimed Albion could offer Adebayor another shot at the Premier League if they fail to secure a marquee striker signing .
The forward is said to be keen on returning to England to score the three more goals required to take him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Why should you sign up ?
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Google Play Store and App Store But it is understood such suggestions involving the Baggies are wide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not considered a target for Slaven Bilic 's side .
Huddersfield Town 's Karlan Grant remains the club 's priority target after scoring 19 goals in the Championship last season and he continues to be overlooked for selection as discussions over his future go on .
Terriers boss Carlos Corberan told YorkshireLive.
“ The situation with him is we were thinking he had options to leave the club because we knew about the interest of some clubs that nowadays are in the Premier League , ” Corberan told YorkshireLive .
“ At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had last year and can understand his ambition to leave the club .
I think the understanding of the situation from both parts was very clear .
“ From that moment we started to work with just the players we think we are going to have every game .
“ He is not involved in the collective work with the team but he continues working to keep his levels just in case the move happens or just in case he can add to the squad if the move doesn ’ t happen .
@

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BirminghamLive understands there is no substance to reports linking West Bromwich Albion with a move for former Arsenal and Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor.
Adebayor, now 36, is currently without a club after leaving Paraguayan side Olimpia in July due to concerns about travelling during the coronavirus pandemic.
Reports in the national press on Thursday claimed Albion could offer Adebayor another shot at the Premier League if they fail to secure a marquee striker signing.
The forward is said to be keen on returning to England to score the three more goals required to take him to a century of top-flight strikes.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
But it is understood such suggestions involving the Baggies are wide of the mark with the Togo intentional not considered a target for Slaven Bilic's side.
Huddersfield Town's Karlan Grant remains the club's priority target after scoring 19 goals in the Championship last season and he continues to be overlooked for selection as discussions over his future go on.
Terriers boss Carlos Corberan told YorkshireLive.“The situation with him is we were thinking he had options to leave the club because we knew about the interest of some clubs that nowadays are in the Premier League,” Corberan told YorkshireLive.
“At the same time we know the impact he had last year and can understand his ambition to leave the club. I think the understanding of the situation from both parts was very clear.
“From that moment we started to work with just the players we think we are going to have every game.
“He is not involved in the collective work with the team but he continues working to keep his levels just in case the move happens or just in case he can add to the squad if the move doesn’t happen.”


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Live updates as fire crews battle huge blaze at derelict factory

A huge fire has broken out at a derelict factory in Walsall Town Centre .
Fire crews are currently on @ @ @ @ @ They were called to the blaze at 18.24pm today - Thursday , September 24 .
@ @ @ @ @ platform are currently in attendance and tackling the flames .
Pictures and video from the @ @ @ @ @ which is next to an apartment block - engulfed by flames with smoke billowing from @ @ @ @ @ currently unknown if anyone is injured and the cause of the blaze is not yet @ @ @ @ @ for more information from West Midlands Fire Service .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Paxton, Charlotte Regen)

A huge fire has broken out at a derelict factory in Walsall Town Centre.
Fire crews are currently on scene at Marsh Lane. They were called to the blaze at 18.24pm today - Thursday, September 24.
Six pumps and a hydraulic platform are currently in attendance and tackling the flames.
Pictures and video from the scene show the building - which is next to an apartment block - engulfed by flames with smoke billowing from the windows.
It is currently unknown if anyone is injured and the cause of the blaze is not yet clear.
BlackCountryLive is waiting for more information from West Midlands Fire Service.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Hospital trust out of special measures after five years

A hospital trust in Worcestershire has hailed coming out of special measures after years under scrutiny of the healthcare watchdog .
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust – which runs Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester , Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital and Treatment Centre – has been upgraded by health care inspectors after five years it confirmed on Thursday ( September 24 ) .
The Trust , which is also responsible for a surgical unit at Evesham Community Hospital and services at Malvern Community Hospital , has been told it is out of special measures but there is still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received two s29A warning notices in January and July 2017 – with the Care Quality Commission ( CQC ) expressed concerns with the healthcare provided at its sites .
It had also been issued with requirement notices and told to improve standards , which it has done .
Last year the CQC said the effectiveness of services and their caring element are ‘ good , their safety , responsiveness and leadership all ‘ requirement improvement ’ in a report dated September 20 , 2019 .
But the Trust ’ s use of resources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as of December 2018 had 737 acute beds , 66 for maternity and 37 critical beds across five sites .
The CQC urged the trust to manage patient flow effectively ‘ to ensure all patients had access to the right care at the right time ’ .
A year ago leaders were said to ‘ know what to do ’ but as strategies and improvement plans were still being developed and implemented , “ there was not yet fully demonstrable , sustainable improvements in the quality of all patient care and treatment over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question mark over responsiveness and said : “ Not all patients in emergency care , medical care and outpatients ’ services were receiving timely assessment and treatment.
” But now a year later – and after coming through the eye of the storm of a global Covid-19 pandemic , the Trust is now off the watch list .
Matthew Hopkins , chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust , welcomed the news and told staff on Thursday ( September 24 ) .
He said : “ This is fantastic news for colleagues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard to put our patients first and provide the safest , highest quality care they can .
“ It is recognition of the progress we have made , and is another very important step forward on our improvement journey , following on from last year ’ s greatly improved CQC ratings and the way we have risen to the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic .
“ I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every member of our staff for the improvements they have helped to deliver .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do , and many more challenges to overcome , but this announcement is a huge vote of confidence in our ability to make sure that every patient coming through the doors of our hospitals gets the best , safest , most compassionate care.
” He added : “ It is essential that we continue to work together to prepare for the twin challenges of winter and a resurgence of Covid-19 so that we can keep our patients and our staff safe and make sure that we provide timely access to the best care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs it.
” Simon Trickett , chief executive of NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire CCG added : “ This is fantastic news for patients .
It is a great achievement and reflects the tremendous amount of work that has been put over recent years .
Congratulations to everyone involved , and we ’ re looking forward to continuing to work closely with the Trust as they move forward on their improvement journey.
” While a spokesperson for NHS England and NHS Improvement in the Midlands said : “ This is great news for Worcestershire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and is testament to the commitment the trust and its staff has made to making key improvements .
”

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A hospital trust in Worcestershire has hailed coming out of special measures after years under scrutiny of the healthcare watchdog.
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust – which runs Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester, Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital and Treatment Centre – has been upgraded by health care inspectors after five years it confirmed on Thursday (September 24).
The Trust, which is also responsible for a surgical unit at Evesham Community Hospital and services at Malvern Community Hospital, has been told it is out of special measures but there is still work to be done.
It had received two s29A warning notices in January and July 2017 – with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) expressed concerns with the healthcare provided at its sites. It had also been issued with requirement notices and told to improve standards, which it has done.
Last year the CQC said the effectiveness of services and their caring element are ‘good, their safety, responsiveness and leadership all ‘requirement improvement’ in a report dated September 20, 2019. But the Trust’s use of resources were ‘inadequate’.
The trust as of December 2018 had 737 acute beds, 66 for maternity and 37 critical beds across five sites.
The CQC urged the trust to manage patient flow effectively ‘to ensure all patients had access to the right care at the right time’.
A year ago leaders were said to ‘know what to do’ but as strategies and improvement plans were still being developed and implemented, “there was not yet fully demonstrable, sustainable improvements in the quality of all patient care and treatment over time.” The regulatory body had a question mark over responsiveness and said: “Not all patients in emergency care, medical care and outpatients’ services were receiving timely assessment and treatment.”
But now a year later – and after coming through the eye of the storm of a global Covid-19 pandemic, the Trust is now off the watch list.
(Image: David Davies/PA Wire)
Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, welcomed the news and told staff on Thursday (September 24).
He said: “This is fantastic news for colleagues across our Trust who have worked so hard to put our patients first and provide the safest, highest quality care they can.
“It is recognition of the progress we have made, and is another very important step forward on our improvement journey, following on from last year’s greatly improved CQC ratings and the way we have risen to the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every member of our staff for the improvements they have helped to deliver.
“There is still much we have to do, and many more challenges to overcome, but this announcement is a huge vote of confidence in our ability to make sure that every patient coming through the doors of our hospitals gets the best, safest, most compassionate care.”
He added: “It is essential that we continue to work together to prepare for the twin challenges of winter and a resurgence of Covid-19 so that we can keep our patients and our staff safe and make sure that we provide timely access to the best care in the right setting for everyone who needs it.”
Simon Trickett, chief executive of NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire CCG added: “This is fantastic news for patients. It is a great achievement and reflects the tremendous amount of work that has been put over recent years. Congratulations to everyone involved, and we’re looking forward to continuing to work closely with the Trust as they move forward on their improvement journey.”
While a spokesperson for NHS England and NHS Improvement in the Midlands said: “This is great news for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals and the population it serves, and is testament to the commitment the trust and its staff has made to making key improvements.”


birminghammail--2020-09-24--CCTV images released after teenagers 'robbed at knife-point'

CCTV images have been released by police after two teenagers were allegedly threatened with a machete and robbed at a Tipton cashpoint .
The pair were standing at an ATM on High Street , when they were approached by a gang at 5pm on Saturday , September 12 .
Police say it 's alleged that the pair were threatened with a machete before their belongings were snatched .
West Midlands Police have released CCTV images of people who they wish to speak to .
In an appeal on social media , the force said : `` Do you recognise these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to them following a cashpoint robbery in Tipton earlier this month .
`` We believe two teenagers were at a cashpoint on Tipton High Street , Sandwell at 5pm on Saturday , September 12 , when they were approached by a group .
`` It 's alleged the pair were threatened with a machete before being robbed of their belongings . ''
If you recognise them , or have any information , please contact the police via live chat or by calling 101 .
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @

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CCTV images have been released by police after two teenagers were allegedly threatened with a machete and robbed at a Tipton cashpoint.
The pair were standing at an ATM on High Street, when they were approached by a gang at 5pm on Saturday, September 12.
Police say it's alleged that the pair were threatened with a machete before their belongings were snatched.
West Midlands Police have released CCTV images of people who they wish to speak to.
In an appeal on social media, the force said: "Do you recognise these people?
(Image: WMP)
"We want to speak to them following a cashpoint robbery in Tipton earlier this month.
"We believe two teenagers were at a cashpoint on Tipton High Street, Sandwell at 5pm on Saturday, September 12, when they were approached by a group.
"It's alleged the pair were threatened with a machete before being robbed of their belongings."
If you recognise them, or have any information, please contact the police via live chat or by calling 101.
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime reference number 20SW/219867F/20.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Aston Villa team for Bristol City - Traore debut, Ramsey starts

Nineteen million-pound winger Bertrand Traore has been handed his Aston Villa debut this evening with Dean Smith making wholesale changes from Monday 's 1-0 win over Sheffield United .
The summer signing is expected to play from the right-hand side against Bristol City at Ashton Gate .
The former Lyon and Ajax man will have Frederic Guilbert behind him at right-back while , up front , Keinan Davis leads the line fresh from signing a new four-year contract on Tuesday .
Head coach Smith has made an entire starting XI change , with seven of tonight 's XI having played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still injured it means the experienced Ahmed Elmohamady 's likely to play at centre-back alongside Kortney Hause .
In goal , Jed Steer comes in for his first start of the season in place of Orjan Nyland who , last week , started at Burton .
Inspired summer recruit Emi Martinez is Villa 's No.1 goalkeeper in the Premier League and will retain his place for Monday 's clash at Fulham .
At left-back , Neil Taylor starts while , ahead of him down the left , Anwar El Ghazi will be tasked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Davis and Traore .
Highly-talented Villa youngster Jacob Ramsey starts again in midfield .
The 19-year-old will have Marvelous Nakamba just behind him in Villa 's anchorman midfield role while , next to him , Henri Lansbury comes in again in what 's the exact same midfield that started at the Pirelli Stadium last week .
Jack Grealish has been given the night off while both Ollie Watkins and John McGinn are among the subs .
Here 's the VILLA team in full , below :

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Nineteen million-pound winger Bertrand Traore has been handed his Aston Villa debut this evening with Dean Smith making wholesale changes from Monday's 1-0 win over Sheffield United.
The summer signing is expected to play from the right-hand side against Bristol City at Ashton Gate. The former Lyon and Ajax man will have Frederic Guilbert behind him at right-back while, up front, Keinan Davis leads the line fresh from signing a new four-year contract on Tuesday.
Head coach Smith has made an entire starting XI change, with seven of tonight's XI having played at Burton previously. With Bjorn Engels still injured it means the experienced Ahmed Elmohamady's likely to play at centre-back alongside Kortney Hause.
In goal, Jed Steer comes in for his first start of the season in place of Orjan Nyland who, last week, started at Burton. Inspired summer recruit Emi Martinez is Villa's No.1 goalkeeper in the Premier League and will retain his place for Monday's clash at Fulham.
At left-back, Neil Taylor starts while, ahead of him down the left, Anwar El Ghazi will be tasked with providing the ammunition for the likes of Davis and Traore.
Highly-talented Villa youngster Jacob Ramsey starts again in midfield. The 19-year-old will have Marvelous Nakamba just behind him in Villa's anchorman midfield role while, next to him, Henri Lansbury comes in again in what's the exact same midfield that started at the Pirelli Stadium last week. Jack Grealish has been given the night off while both Ollie Watkins and John McGinn are among the subs.
Here's the VILLA team in full, below :
Aston Villa, 4-3-3: Steer; Guilbert, Elmohamady, Hause, Taylor; Nakamba, J.Ramsey, Lansbury; Traore, Davis, El Ghazi. Subs: Kalinic, Mings, Targett, Hourihane, McGinn, Trezeguet, Watkins.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Pubs call for extra help as they face job losses and closures over 10pm curfew

Pub bosses say the Chancellor 's new measures do n't go far enough as they prepare for the start of a curfew they claim will devastate the sector .
Starting tonight - Thursday , September 24 - businesses selling food or drink including cafes , bars , pubs and restaurants must close at 10pm and not reopen before 5am .
This will include takeaways but delivery services taking food to people 's homes can continue after 10pm .
In licensed premises , food and drink must be ordered from , and served at , a table .
The curfew also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bowling alleys , amusement arcades ( and other indoor leisure centres or facilities ) , funfairs , theme parks , adventure parks and activities , and bingo halls .
However , industry bossses fear the rule will see the loss of thousands of jobs and venues unless further financial support is offered .
Pub and hospitality trade bodies the British Beer & Pub Association , UKHospitality and the British Institute of Innkeeping say almost a quarter of their members believe their businesses will fail by the end of the year without further Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average , businesses believe their workforce will be 25 per cent lower by February 2021 compared with February this year – a loss of 675,000 jobs in a year .
Emma McClarkin , Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pubs Association , said : `` A 10pm curfew will devastate our sector during an already challenging environment for pubs .
`` Removing a key trading hour on top of fragile consumer confidence and the reduced capacity pubs already face will put thousands more pubs and jobs at risk .
“ During the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crucial to the survival of pubs – for many this curfew will render their businesses unviable . ''
And she said Chancellor Rishi Sunak 's latest plans did not go far enough .
Check latest food and drink news for your area by typing your postcode in the box below : Ms McClarkin explained : `` Some elements of the Chancellor ’ s plan today are welcome , but do not go nearly far enough to save the thousands of pubs and jobs that we have highlighted are at serious risk .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soft drinks will help our sector and it is great to see the Chancellor answer our urgent call for this .
However , the extension is only for six weeks and only takes us through to the end of the current restrictions – it needs to be much longer to help our sector recover .
`` Furthermore , where those pubs and bars that are not food focused are concerned , the Chancellor has missed a golden opportunity to extend the VAT cut to include alcohol .
`` The new flexible job support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheme will end next month , but with a lower level of funding from Government that will cost employers more , we are not confident it is enough to protect jobs in the current trading conditions .
We will need to closely monitor the effectiveness of this scheme with our members and invite the Government to work with us if changes to the scheme are required .
`` As brewing businesses are also greatly impacted by the curfew and the tighter restrictions pubs now face , they need more support too .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s announcement , it is imperative that a beer duty cut is top of the list for the Chancellor at the next Budget , which would greatly help wet led pubs too .
And she added : `` It is very concerning to see the Chancellor not extend the business rates relief for pubs .
Pubs now face a cliff edge come March 2021 where they will have to pay on average £25,000 each per rate paying pub .
That ’ s a cost of £800 million to the sector which will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We need the Chancellor to review this and extend the business rates holiday as a matter of urgency .
`` Increasing access to Government loans , and extending the lengths to pay them back , will help some pubs , but for many , taking on further debt in the form of a loan isn ’ t even a viable option – particularly at this stage .
`` We need the Government to recognise that consumer confidence is fragile and the additional restrictions that could be in place for a further six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We are asking them to consider ways they can help boost consumer confidence including running the successful Eat Out To Help Out scheme again and offering sector specific grants for pub businesses . ''

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Pub bosses say the Chancellor's new measures don't go far enough as they prepare for the start of a curfew they claim will devastate the sector.
Starting tonight - Thursday, September 24 - businesses selling food or drink including cafes, bars, pubs and restaurants must close at 10pm and not reopen before 5am.
This will include takeaways but delivery services taking food to people's homes can continue after 10pm.
In licensed premises, food and drink must be ordered from, and served at, a table.
The curfew also applies to social clubs, casinos, bowling alleys, amusement arcades (and other indoor leisure centres or facilities), funfairs, theme parks, adventure parks and activities, and bingo halls.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
However, industry bossses fear the rule will see the loss of thousands of jobs and venues unless further financial support is offered.
Pub and hospitality trade bodies the British Beer & Pub Association, UKHospitality and the British Institute of Innkeeping say almost a quarter of their members believe their businesses will fail by the end of the year without further Government support.
A survey found that on average, businesses believe their workforce will be 25 per cent lower by February 2021 compared with February this year – a loss of 675,000 jobs in a year.
Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pubs Association, said: "A 10pm curfew will devastate our sector during an already challenging environment for pubs.
"Removing a key trading hour on top of fragile consumer confidence and the reduced capacity pubs already face will put thousands more pubs and jobs at risk.
“During the current circumstances every hour of trading it crucial to the survival of pubs – for many this curfew will render their businesses unviable."
And she said Chancellor Rishi Sunak's latest plans did not go far enough.
Check latest food and drink news for your area by typing your postcode in the box below:
Ms McClarkin explained: "Some elements of the Chancellor’s plan today are welcome, but do not go nearly far enough to save the thousands of pubs and jobs that we have highlighted are at serious risk.
"The VAT cut extension on food and soft drinks will help our sector and it is great to see the Chancellor answer our urgent call for this. However, the extension is only for six weeks and only takes us through to the end of the current restrictions – it needs to be much longer to help our sector recover.
"Furthermore, where those pubs and bars that are not food focused are concerned, the Chancellor has missed a golden opportunity to extend the VAT cut to include alcohol.
"The new flexible job support scheme is needed considering that the furlough scheme will end next month, but with a lower level of funding from Government that will cost employers more, we are not confident it is enough to protect jobs in the current trading conditions. We will need to closely monitor the effectiveness of this scheme with our members and invite the Government to work with us if changes to the scheme are required.
"As brewing businesses are also greatly impacted by the curfew and the tighter restrictions pubs now face, they need more support too. With no direct support for them in today’s announcement, it is imperative that a beer duty cut is top of the list for the Chancellor at the next Budget, which would greatly help wet led pubs too.
And she added: "It is very concerning to see the Chancellor not extend the business rates relief for pubs. Pubs now face a cliff edge come March 2021 where they will have to pay on average £25,000 each per rate paying pub. That’s a cost of £800 million to the sector which will be the final straw for many pubs. We need the Chancellor to review this and extend the business rates holiday as a matter of urgency.
"Increasing access to Government loans, and extending the lengths to pay them back, will help some pubs, but for many, taking on further debt in the form of a loan isn’t even a viable option – particularly at this stage.
"We need the Government to recognise that consumer confidence is fragile and the additional restrictions that could be in place for a further six months will only make this worse.
"We are asking them to consider ways they can help boost consumer confidence including running the successful Eat Out To Help Out scheme again and offering sector specific grants for pub businesses."


birminghammail--2020-09-24--TV details and live stream as Aston Villa take on Bristol City in Carabao Cup

Aston Villa make the trip down to Ashton Gate this evening as they face Championship side Bristol City in the third round of the Carabao Cup .
Villa , fresh from their 1-0 win over Sheffield United on Monday evening , now have the chance to progress into the fourth round of the cup , but face a tough task in Bristol .
Dean Smith ’ s men face Bristol City , who have won both of their games in the Championship so far this season , and will be looking to cause an upset against the Premier League side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information you need to know ahead of Villa ’ s match this evening .
Is Bristol City vs Aston Villa on TV ?
Sky Sports are showing Lincoln City vs Liverpool instead of Aston Villa ’ s match - but it is available to watch .
The match is being shown live through the competition ’ s new streaming service - carabaocup.live - where you will have to pay a one-off fee of £10 to watch the game .
The match kicks off at 7pm down in Bristol , and will be available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carabao Cup ’ s service .
Villa defender Ezri Konsa is likely to be rested as a precaution after appearing to pick up an injury in the warm-up to the second-half of the side ’ s 1-0 victory against Sheffield United earlier this week .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store However , Konsa played the rest of the game for Smith ’ s side and scored the winning goal at Villa Park .
Bjorn Engels , Wesley and Tom Heaton all missed the win over the Blades and are all out for the trip to Ashton Gate .
As for Bristol City , Tomas Kalas , Nathan Baker , Joe Williams , Liam Walsh , Callum O ’ Dowda and Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returned to training this week , but the match is likely to be too soon for the Robins left-back .

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Aston Villa make the trip down to Ashton Gate this evening as they face Championship side Bristol City in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Villa, fresh from their 1-0 win over Sheffield United on Monday evening, now have the chance to progress into the fourth round of the cup, but face a tough task in Bristol.
Dean Smith’s men face Bristol City, who have won both of their games in the Championship so far this season, and will be looking to cause an upset against the Premier League side.
Here is all of the key information you need to know ahead of Villa’s match this evening.
Is Bristol City vs Aston Villa on TV?
No.
Sky Sports are showing Lincoln City vs Liverpool instead of Aston Villa’s match - but it is available to watch.
The match is being shown live through the competition’s new streaming service - carabaocup.live - where you will have to pay a one-off fee of £10 to watch the game.
The match kicks off at 7pm down in Bristol, and will be available to watch in full HD via the Carabao Cup’s service.
Team news
Villa defender Ezri Konsa is likely to be rested as a precaution after appearing to pick up an injury in the warm-up to the second-half of the side’s 1-0 victory against Sheffield United earlier this week.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
However, Konsa played the rest of the game for Smith’s side and scored the winning goal at Villa Park.
Bjorn Engels, Wesley and Tom Heaton all missed the win over the Blades and are all out for the trip to Ashton Gate.
As for Bristol City, Tomas Kalas, Nathan Baker, Joe Williams, Liam Walsh, Callum O’Dowda and Joe Morrell are all sidelined.
Jay Dasilva returned to training this week, but the match is likely to be too soon for the Robins left-back.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--'Armageddon' - huge storm hits carpeting county in hail stones

A storm struck in an area of Worcestershire - making it look like a winter wonderland in a matter of minutes .
The mother of all hail storms struck in Worcester shortly before 3pm , overing the floor in a carpet of white ice in a 15-minute spell .
Worcestershire mum Cat Phillips was on her way from Bromsgrove , where she works to pick up her daughter from a school in Worcester .
The 37-year-old said : “ I was driving towards Worcester on the A449 coming from the roundabout by Sixways [ Stadium ] to get my daughter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came down .
“ I thought my car roof was going to cave in or the sky was about to .
“ I live in Hartlebury and my husband said it ’ s been a lovely sunny day .
And it the storm wasn ’ t in Bromsgrove where I work .
“ The hail stones felt like golf balls .
I thought my car window would smash .
`` I have never seen hail like that before .
Not coming down that quickly .
It came down for 15 minutes and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hail disappeared quite quickly .
“ When I got to my daughter her and her friends thought it was brilliant and like a snow day .
I think they were trying to make snowballs .
“ An apocalypse would be a fitting end to 2020 !
” Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Thom Morgan Tweeted : “ What happened ?
Had to pull over !
” along with the a video of his car being pelted by hail stones .
While Worcester-based Community First responder , Dave Harford Tweeted : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Insanely heavy hail , everything ’ s white and car alarms going off !
“ Just wow .
That what a storm and a half !
”

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A storm struck in an area of Worcestershire - making it look like a winter wonderland in a matter of minutes.
The mother of all hail storms struck in Worcester shortly before 3pm , overing the floor in a carpet of white ice in a 15-minute spell.
Worcestershire mum Cat Phillips was on her way from Bromsgrove, where she works to pick up her daughter from a school in Worcester.
The 37-year-old said: “I was driving towards Worcester on the A449 coming from the roundabout by Sixways [Stadium] to get my daughter when all of a sudden hail stones came down.
“I thought my car roof was going to cave in or the sky was about to.
“I live in Hartlebury and my husband said it’s been a lovely sunny day. And it the storm wasn’t in Bromsgrove where I work.
“The hail stones felt like golf balls. I thought my car window would smash.
"I have never seen hail like that before. Not coming down that quickly. It came down for 15 minutes and then it was back to sunshine and the hail disappeared quite quickly.
“When I got to my daughter her and her friends thought it was brilliant and like a snow day. I think they were trying to make snowballs.
“It felt like Armageddon!
“An apocalypse would be a fitting end to 2020!”
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Thom Morgan Tweeted: “What happened? Had to pull over!” along with the a video of his car being pelted by hail stones.
While Worcester-based Community First responder, Dave Harford Tweeted: “So this just happened in Worcester.
“Insanely heavy hail, everything’s white and car alarms going off!
“Now thunder and lightning too!
“Just wow. That what a storm and a half!”


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Werder Bremen make new Milot Rashica transfer admission

Aston Villa 's pursuit of Werder Bremen winger Milot Rashica has dominated the headlines all summer .
Rashica has been touted for a move to Villa Park throughout the transfer window having first been linked with Dean Smith 's side last year .
Villa signed winger Bertrand Traore from Lyon last week and the 25-year-old was in the stands to watch the 1-0 victory against Sheffield United on Monday night .
But the links to Rashica never went away after he scored eight goals and provided seven assists in 28 Bundesliga appearances last season .
Here 's the latest on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa 's reported interest : Sign up to our Villa newsletter for Milot Rashica transfer updates Why should you sign up ?
Villa have been strongly linked with a move for the Werder Bremen star , with fans excitedly awaiting his possible arrival .
With that in mind , we will bring you all the news around the Albanian winger 's future .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Werder 's sporting director Frank Baumann told the German press on Thursday that a transfer for Rashica is still possible in the final weeks of the transfer window .
“ There 's nothing new , ” he said .
“ It 's possible that we will not see him in the Werder jersey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the winger will miss Saturday 's game against Schalke .
Rashica is yet to make an appearance for his side so far this term having missed the league defeat to Hertha Berlin at the weekend and a cup clash with Carl Zeiss Jena before that with his absence put down to a knee injury .
Werder 's head of scouting and professional football Clement Fritz said on Tuesday the player is returning to fitness and wants to play this weekend .
But Kohfeldt confirmed his wait will have to to go on : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has trained with team , and he 's coped well .
He is n't too far away and will hopefully be ready for the game against Bielefeld .
There are no guarantees , though.
” Teammate Ludwig Augustinsson says the winger 's attitude is not that of a player pushing for a move .
When asked about Rashica 'wanting to leave ' , Augustinsson told BuliNews : “ Milot is a professional through and through .
He continues to spread a good mood in the dressing room .
He ’ s not one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to leave .
We really like to have him with us .
“ We focus on the performance and the fun on the pitch in order to be better than the old season .
Milot wants that too .
He is still part of us.
” '' There are several stakeholders , with Aston Villa being one of them , '' he said .
`` As emphasized several times , there is still a chance that Milot Rashica will be a Werder player on October 5 . ''
It came after Fritz also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa ] got in touch , yes , I can confirm that , '' Fritz told Deichstube .
`` There is nothing concrete .
There are a couple of requests for him .
We are in intensive and close communication with his management . ''
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Kosovan journalist Arlind Sadiku reported over the weekend that a potential deal is n't far from being struck .
He claims there are only 'small details ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Werder he wishes to move to England .
Reports coming out of Germany have already said the player is prepared to quit the country .
It had been suggested Rashica was intent on remaining in the Bundesliga and had his heart set on a move to RB Leipzig , where he might swap a relegation battle with a Champions League journey .
A move never materialised and Deichstube , via Sport Witness , claimed he is considering his options with England a real possibility .
Rashica is thought to be valued at around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it could take up to £25million to prise him away from Weser-Stadion .
He has two years left to run on his contract having joined Werder from Dutch side Vitesse in 2018 .
Leeds United are the latest club to be credited with an interest .
German media reported Leeds identified the 24-year-old as a target after their promotion to the Premier League .

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The summer transfer window has come to an end but Milot Rashica is still being linked with Aston Villa.
Rashica was touted for a move to Villa Park throughout the window but it was reported by BirminghamLive in September that Dean Smith's side had decided to end talks for the time being.
Villa had until 11pm on Monday night to complete any deals for players based abroad and that deadline passed with Rashica remaining a Werder Bremen player.
But could there be scope for a move in January?
Here's the current state of play with the Kosovo international...
Werder remain open to Rashica sale
Bremen's Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen appeared to be close to signing Rashica on Monday before the move fell through.
That settled the winger's future until January but with the coronavirus pandemic continuing to pose financial challenges for football clubs, Werder's chief executive Klaus Filbry has told German tabloid Bild that selling Rashica would provide a key cash injection.
"Due to the situation, we have a shortfall in our income of around €30m over both seasons," Filbry is quoted as saying by Bild.
"In this respect, a transfer for Milot would have been important for us to get back in the right direction financially."
Smith's response to Rashica question
Smith all but ruled out a deadline-day move for Rashica after Sunday's 7-2 victory against Liverpool.
Asked if the departure of attacking midfielder Jota opens the door for another player to come in, the head coach said: "No, not really.
"Jota was a player I've worked with before and I couldn't give him minutes here with the quality we've got at the club at the moment.
"I've got Bertrand Traore who came on and Anwar El Ghazi who's on the bench as well. I'm not sure there will be any more coming in before the window closes."
Smith, pressed on players going out, added: "I've said before we can't stockpile players."
What was being reported ahead of deadline day?
Reports in Germany last week claimed Villa were in 'advanced negotiations' about a transfer for Rashica.
Sky Sports were reporting that a deal was likely ahead of Monday night's 11pm deadline for transfers between foreign clubs.
German tabloid Bild also reported that Rashica, who has been linked with a move to Villa all summer, was ready to change his stance on a move to Villa Park after Smith's side's fine start to the Premier League season.
But the winger will now a Werder player until at least January when the window re-opens.
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Premier League rivals also linked
Leeds United and Southampton are reportedly in the race for Villa target Rashica.
According to Kosovar journalist Arlind Sadiku, of Supersport and Digitalb, the two Premier League clubs are also keen.
Villa previously agreed to meet the £20.5 million release clause for the 24 year-old but it is believed wages were a stumbling block with Rashica wanting to double his reported €40,000 weekly wage at Bremen.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Police appeal after stab threat to boy, 12, over GT bike

Police are investigating after a 12-year-old boy was threatened to be stabbed and robbed of his bike in Blackheath .
@ @ @ @ @ Cardale Street , at around 4.20pm on Tuesday , August 25 .
The offender grabbed @ @ @ @ @ and threatened to stab him , before riding away on the orange and black GT @ @ @ @ @ Avenue Road .
West Midlands Police have released a CCTV image of a person on @ @ @ @ @ wish to speak to .
A Spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` A @ @ @ @ @ in Cardale Street , Blackheath at around 4.20pm on Tuesday 25 August .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ shoulder and threatened to stab him , before riding away on the orange and black @ @ @ @ @ of Avenue Road . ''
If you have any information please contact detectives , quoting @ @ @ @ @ Live Chat at www.west.midlands.police.uk , 8am to midnight , or call 101 anytime .
You @ @ @ @ @ 0800 555 111 .

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Police are investigating after a 12-year-old boy was threatened to be stabbed and robbed of his bike in Blackheath.
The shocking incident happened on Cardale Street, at around 4.20pm on Tuesday, August 25.
The offender grabbed the youngster by his shoulder and threatened to stab him, before riding away on the orange and black GT bike in the direction of Avenue Road.
West Midlands Police have released a CCTV image of a person on a bike, who they wish to speak to.
A Spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "A 12-year-old had his bike stolen in Cardale Street, Blackheath at around 4.20pm on Tuesday 25 August.
"The offender grabbed the boy's shoulder and threatened to stab him, before riding away on the orange and black GT bike in the direction of Avenue Road."
If you have any information please contact detectives, quoting crime number 20SW/203390X/20, via Live Chat at www.west.midlands.police.uk, 8am to midnight, or call 101 anytime.
You can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--'Nobody helped' cyclist killed in hit-and-run - family claim

The family of a hit-and-run victim struck and left dying in the road have issued a heartfelt plea for witnesses amid claims 'nobody helped him ' .
Andell Goulbourne , 59 , was tragically knocked off his bicycle and sent into the air when he was struck by a grey BMW M135i on Washwood Heath Road .
The dad-of-three , who recently became a great-grandad , suffered injuries so severe the family were n't allowed to see his body before he was buried .
People could be seen rushing out into the street following the incident on July 30 - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ met with a wall of silence and are desperate to trace witnesses .
His relatives say they were 'disturbed ' that no one appeared to help as Andell lay dying in the street .
The family have been denied closure as they continue to wait for witnesses to come forward .
Two of the victim 's daughters and his sister spoke out as part of a fresh appeal for information as they agreed to release harrowing CCTV footage .
The family had grown concerned after a lack of contact from Andell after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals in the city to see whether a cyclist had been brought in , but were dealt the tragic news by police the following morning .
Andell 's sister , Carol Gordon , told BirminghamLive : `` For me , it was like we were given a life sentence , without a trial .
Most of us just went into auto-pilot , because that 's how we got through .
`` Going down to the site , I was the first one there at the scene - and there was still blood , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeing the live blood there .
`` The community seemed very supportive at the time .
We did n't really understand the extent of his injuries at all until we saw the video . ''
She continued : `` I have n't seen my brother , we could n't see him at the funeral directors because the injuries were that great .
`` Within the black community , we do say goodbye , but there was no chapel of rest , there was no closure for us .
I did n't know who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video .
`` When I looked at the rest of the footage I was more disturbed because it looked like nobody helped .
The normal response would be to go to the victim , go to the person who has had the accident .
`` This did n't happen here .
I 'm not judging anybody , but I 'm saying to the community , you need to help us bring closure .
`` We can not grieve at the moment .
We just want someone to come forward .
My brother was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
His daughters , Nyesha Smith and Samantha Higgins , said the death is a 'great loss ' to the community , as Andell was well-known for his volunteer work and mentoring .
Nyesha said : `` Andell was a family person , he enjoyed being around people .
He was a people person .
He had done a lot of community work , volunteering .
`` He was there for us , always there .
Always someone you could rely on . ''
Police named Kashif Khan , aged 24 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to in connection with the incident , as Crimestoppers offered a reward of up to £5,000 for information passed via www.crimestoppers-uk.org or in confidence on 0800 555 111 .
Three men have already been interviewed about the incident .
Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes , who is leading the investigation , echoed the family 's plea for witnesses as he directly addressed Khan and anyone who 'helped him ' .
He said : `` As we go forward , we always need evidence .
I need to prosecute the driver .
I need those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me .
`` We 've named a man , Kashif Khan , as someone I would like to speak to in connection with that collision .
Kashif - have another look at that footage and have a think .
`` I know that Kashif left this country 21 hours after that collision - and I 'm fairly confident he did n't do that on his own , he had help and support .
`` Those people that helped him , have a look at that footage .
I need those people to speak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling the UK Contact Centre which is open 24/7 on freephone number 0800 555 111 or you can use the simple and secure anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org .

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The family of a hit-and-run victim struck and left dying in the road have issued a heartfelt plea for witnesses amid claims 'nobody helped him'.
Andell Goulbourne, 59, was tragically knocked off his bicycle and sent into the air when he was struck by a grey BMW M135i on Washwood Heath Road.
The dad-of-three, who recently became a great-grandad, suffered injuries so severe the family weren't allowed to see his body before he was buried.
People could be seen rushing out into the street following the incident on July 30 - but West Midlands Police has since been met with a wall of silence and are desperate to trace witnesses.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
His relatives say they were 'disturbed' that no one appeared to help as Andell lay dying in the street. The family have been denied closure as they continue to wait for witnesses to come forward.
Two of the victim's daughters and his sister spoke out as part of a fresh appeal for information as they agreed to release harrowing CCTV footage.
The family had grown concerned after a lack of contact from Andell after the 11.15pm collision. They rang all the hospitals in the city to see whether a cyclist had been brought in, but were dealt the tragic news by police the following morning.
Andell's sister, Carol Gordon, told BirminghamLive: "For me, it was like we were given a life sentence, without a trial. Most of us just went into auto-pilot, because that's how we got through.
"Going down to the site, I was the first one there at the scene - and there was still blood, still live. That was disturbing anyway seeing the live blood there.
"The community seemed very supportive at the time. We didn't really understand the extent of his injuries at all until we saw the video."
She continued: "I haven't seen my brother, we couldn't see him at the funeral directors because the injuries were that great.
"Within the black community, we do say goodbye, but there was no chapel of rest, there was no closure for us. I didn't know who they were burying until I saw the video.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"When I looked at the rest of the footage I was more disturbed because it looked like nobody helped. The normal response would be to go to the victim, go to the person who has had the accident.
"This didn't happen here. I'm not judging anybody, but I'm saying to the community, you need to help us bring closure.
"We cannot grieve at the moment. We just want someone to come forward. My brother was killed. Somebody needs to be responsible."
His daughters, Nyesha Smith and Samantha Higgins, said the death is a 'great loss' to the community, as Andell was well-known for his volunteer work and mentoring.
(Image: West Midlands Police)
Nyesha said: "Andell was a family person, he enjoyed being around people. He was a people person. He had done a lot of community work, volunteering.
"He was there for us, always there. Always someone you could rely on."
Police named Kashif Khan, aged 24, as a man they want to speak to in connection with the incident, as Crimestoppers offered a reward of up to £5,000 for information passed via www.crimestoppers-uk.org or in confidence on 0800 555 111.
Three men have already been interviewed about the incident.
Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes, who is leading the investigation, echoed the family's plea for witnesses as he directly addressed Khan and anyone who 'helped him'.
(Image: WMP)
He said: "As we go forward, we always need evidence. I need to prosecute the driver. I need those witnesses to come forward and speak to me.
"We've named a man, Kashif Khan, as someone I would like to speak to in connection with that collision. Kashif - have another look at that footage and have a think.
"I know that Kashif left this country 21 hours after that collision - and I'm fairly confident he didn't do that on his own, he had help and support.
"Those people that helped him, have a look at that footage. I need those people to speak to us as well."
You can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling the UK Contact Centre which is open 24/7 on freephone number 0800 555 111 or you can use the simple and secure anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Marvelous Nakamba linked with Aston Villa exit ahead of deadline

Marvelous Nakamba is again being linked with a move away from Aston Villa in the final weeks of the transfer window .
The midfielder only joined Villa from Club Brugge last summer but there has been regular speculation about his future in the Turkish press , with both Galatasaray and Fenerbache reported to be keen on him .
He started last season as a key player in Dean Smith 's side but saw his opportunities become more limited in the Premier League due to Douglas Luiz 's impressive performances in the anchorman role in midfield .
Nakamba remains a valuable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yeni Asir ( via Sport Witness ) claim Galatasaray want to sign him before October 's transfer deadline .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were linked with the Zimbabwe international before his switch to Villa and the report adds they 'expect ' to agree a loan deal for the rest of the season .
Nakamba was an unused substitute for the Premier League win against Sheffield United on Monday but started the Carabao Cup victory over Burton Albion last week and is expected to do so again at Bristol City tonight ( Thursday ) .
Meanwhile , Mbwana Samatta is close to completing his move to Fenerbache .
The striker is set to link up with his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa Park in January .
He scored once in 14 Premier League outings and dropped down the pecking order following the club-record arrival of Ollie Watkins while Keinan Davis is Smith 's proffered backup option .

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Marvelous Nakamba is again being linked with a move away from Aston Villa in the final weeks of the transfer window.
The midfielder only joined Villa from Club Brugge last summer but there has been regular speculation about his future in the Turkish press, with both Galatasaray and Fenerbache reported to be keen on him.
He started last season as a key player in Dean Smith's side but saw his opportunities become more limited in the Premier League due to Douglas Luiz's impressive performances in the anchorman role in midfield.
Nakamba remains a valuable option in the squad but Turkish newspaper Yeni Asir (via Sport Witness) claim Galatasaray want to sign him before October's transfer deadline.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
The Super Lig side were linked with the Zimbabwe international before his switch to Villa and the report adds they 'expect' to agree a loan deal for the rest of the season.
Nakamba was an unused substitute for the Premier League win against Sheffield United on Monday but started the Carabao Cup victory over Burton Albion last week and is expected to do so again at Bristol City tonight (Thursday).
Meanwhile, Mbwana Samatta is close to completing his move to Fenerbache.
The striker is set to link up with his new club on loan having arrived at Villa Park in January.
He scored once in 14 Premier League outings and dropped down the pecking order following the club-record arrival of Ollie Watkins while Keinan Davis is Smith's proffered backup option.


birminghammail--2020-09-24--Home Bargains fans flocking to buy £1.99 item that you 'must have'

Home Bargains has sent Christmas lovers into complete meltdown with a new product that people have said they `` must have '' .
The popular shop is well known for supplying a range of cheap products including a wide range of items for Halloweenand Christmas .
And now the store has sent people into a frenzy over a rear windscreen wiper that 's only £1.99 .
The Xmas Wiper Waver is currently for sale and the item was posted on the popular Facebook group Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK .
One user decided to post a video of the item @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Home bargains think it ’ s was £1.99 eekkkk super excited for Xmas lol '' .
The post was loved by members of the group with more than 4,000 reactions and 9,000 comments .
One person gushed over the item saying : `` I had one of these last year , I loved loved loved the smiles on people 's faces behind me when I pulled the wiper arm '' while another wrote : `` I would love one of these but I do n't have a rear wiper ! ''
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here .
This comes after people went nuts over the store 's Kerala Chinese Salt & Pepper Chilli Pepper Seasoning rings which cost only £1.19 .
Supermarkets , including Home Bargains , continues to welcome customers into its stores despite the coronavirus pandemic .
The stores are encouraging everyone to wear a face mask .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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Home Bargains has sent Christmas lovers into complete meltdown with a new product that people have said they "must have".
The popular shop is well known for supplying a range of cheap products including a wide range of items for Halloween and Christmas.
And now the store has sent people into a frenzy over a rear windscreen wiper that's only £1.99.
The Xmas Wiper Waver is currently for sale and the item was posted on the popular Facebook group Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK.
One user decided to post a video of the item being used on their car saying: "Home bargains think it’s was £1.99 eekkkk super excited for Xmas lol".
The post was loved by members of the group with more than 4,000 reactions and 9,000 comments.
(Image: Home Bargains)
One person gushed over the item saying: "I had one of these last year, I loved loved loved the smiles on people's faces behind me when I pulled the wiper arm" while another wrote: "I would love one of these but I don't have a rear wiper!"
You can buy the unique Santa product right here. This comes after people went nuts over the store's Kerala Chinese Salt & Pepper Chilli Pepper Seasoning rings which cost only £1.19.
Supermarkets, including Home Bargains, continues to welcome customers into its stores despite the coronavirus pandemic. The stores are encouraging everyone to wear a face mask.


birminghammail--2020-09-25--Black Country MP John Spellar warns against second lockdown

Black Country Labour MP John Spellar has joined forces with Conservative rebels to demand that Parliament should be given the power to stop any future national lockdown .
Boris Johnson this week set out a series of new measures designed to get a grip on the rising tide of Covid-19 cases , including a natiinal 10pm curfew on pubs and restaurants .
Mr Spellar , Labour MP for Warley , is backing an amendment submitted by Sir Graham Brady , chairman of the powerful 1922 Committee of Conservative backbench MPs , which would force a parliamentary debate and vote on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been seen as a sign of the mounting disquiet among Tory MPs at Downing Street ’ s decision to announce the regulations without giving Parliament a say .
Mr Spellar is one of the few Labour MPs to have put his name to the amendment .
The 73-year-old MP has warned that lockdowns may do more harm than good , following concern that measures taken in the past led to hospitals cancelling treatment for people with other illnesses , and destroyed jobs .
In an article for website LabourList , he said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people suffering and dying – but some choices may mean those numbers are reduced .
`` Cuts to diagnosis and surgery costs lives .
A broken economy and high unemployment crushes hopes and blights the dreams of young people , as does disrupted education .
Loneliness , especially of older people , shortens lives and increases mental illness and suicide .
`` A wrecked economy can not pay decent wages or support proper public services .
An emaciated entertainment and hospitality sector erodes the joys of life , as well as the livelihoods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Closing down societies permanently until an effective vaccine is found is not a realistic option . ''
Mr Spellar said : `` None of this is to underestimate the heroic work of our health and care workers , nor the individual or family tragedies caused by our current pandemic .
But our real challenge may be to work out how to minimise but , realistically , not eliminate the toll of Covid-19 on our lives .
`` We have to face up to reality by acknowledging that for some years – potentially decades @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this enemy . ''
The amendment would have the effect of requiring a vote on any future statutory instruments - a form of legislation - which introduced new national restrictions .
In principle , it would allow Parliament to reject proposals for a national lockdown in the future , though MPs would be also be free to support such proposals .
The Prime Minister has warned that the current coronavirus health crisis could last six months and it 's possible new restrictions could come in if case numbers continue to rise .
Tom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Commons foreign and transport committees respectively , have both voiced their support for the amendment , along with former Wales secretary David Jones .
Sir Bernard Jenkin , veteran Tory and chairman of the liaison committee , which scrutinises the work of the Prime Minister , confirmed on Twitter that he too supported the call for a vote .
Ex-Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith and former Brexit secretary David Davis are among the original signatories , while former deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman and the DUP ’ s Sammy Wilson have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ More than 40 Tory MPs have now expressed backing for Sir Graham ’ s move , enough to challenge the Government ’ s majority if they and the Opposition vote the amendment through , should it be selected by the Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle next week .
However , there is speculation that the Government could avoid a vote by agreeing to accept the amendment voluntarily .
Mr Tugendhat warned that “ controlling the lives of 65 million people by fiat ” was “ not sustainable ” .
He told BBC Radio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You can give various blanket permissions in emergency ways but that doesn ’ t mean you don ’ t have to come and ask for permission as soon as is practical .
“ It ’ s quite clear that there ’ s at least another six months of it as the Government has announced and it may indeed be longer than that depending on whether a vaccine comes or not , so the idea that we can have a permanent state where the Government is making emergency decisions for people and effectively controlling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fiat is not sustainable .
”

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Black Country Labour MP John Spellar has joined forces with Conservative rebels to demand that Parliament should be given the power to stop any future national lockdown.
Boris Johnson this week set out a series of new measures designed to get a grip on the rising tide of Covid-19 cases, including a natiinal 10pm curfew on pubs and restaurants.
Mr Spellar, Labour MP for Warley, is backing an amendment submitted by Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the powerful 1922 Committee of Conservative backbench MPs, which would force a parliamentary debate and vote on such measures in future.
It's been seen as a sign of the mounting disquiet among Tory MPs at Downing Street’s decision to announce the regulations without giving Parliament a say. Mr Spellar is one of the few Labour MPs to have put his name to the amendment.
The 73-year-old MP has warned that lockdowns may do more harm than good, following concern that measures taken in the past led to hospitals cancelling treatment for people with other illnesses, and destroyed jobs.
In an article for website LabourList, he said: "Every choice made will result in people suffering and dying – but some choices may mean those numbers are reduced.
"Cuts to diagnosis and surgery costs lives. A broken economy and high unemployment crushes hopes and blights the dreams of young people, as does disrupted education. Loneliness, especially of older people, shortens lives and increases mental illness and suicide.
"A wrecked economy cannot pay decent wages or support proper public services. An emaciated entertainment and hospitality sector erodes the joys of life, as well as the livelihoods of millions. "
He added: "Closing down societies permanently until an effective vaccine is found is not a realistic option."
Mr Spellar said: "None of this is to underestimate the heroic work of our health and care workers, nor the individual or family tragedies caused by our current pandemic. But our real challenge may be to work out how to minimise but, realistically, not eliminate the toll of Covid-19 on our lives.
"We have to face up to reality by acknowledging that for some years – potentially decades – we may have to live with this enemy."
The amendment would have the effect of requiring a vote on any future statutory instruments - a form of legislation - which introduced new national restrictions. In principle, it would allow Parliament to reject proposals for a national lockdown in the future, though MPs would be also be free to support such proposals.
The Prime Minister has warned that the current coronavirus health crisis could last six months and it's possible new restrictions could come in if case numbers continue to rise.
Tom Tugendhat and Huw Merriman, chairmen of the Commons foreign and transport committees respectively, have both voiced their support for the amendment, along with former Wales secretary David Jones.
Sir Bernard Jenkin, veteran Tory and chairman of the liaison committee, which scrutinises the work of the Prime Minister, confirmed on Twitter that he too supported the call for a vote.
Ex-Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith and former Brexit secretary David Davis are among the original signatories, while former deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman and the DUP’s Sammy Wilson have also put their names to it.
More than 40 Tory MPs have now expressed backing for Sir Graham’s move, enough to challenge the Government’s majority if they and the Opposition vote the amendment through, should it be selected by the Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle next week.
However, there is speculation that the Government could avoid a vote by agreeing to accept the amendment voluntarily.
Mr Tugendhat warned that “controlling the lives of 65 million people by fiat” was “not sustainable”.
He told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “You can give various blanket permissions in emergency ways but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to come and ask for permission as soon as is practical.
“It’s quite clear that there’s at least another six months of it as the Government has announced and it may indeed be longer than that depending on whether a vaccine comes or not, so the idea that we can have a permanent state where the Government is making emergency decisions for people and effectively controlling the lives of 65 million people by fiat is not sustainable.”


birminghammail--2020-09-25--Former Brookside star dies aged just 26

Former Brookside star dies aged just 26

Anna Norbury has died at the age of just 26 , it has been confirmed .
The former soap actress starred in Brookside .
Tributes have been paid to the actress who played Alice Farnham in the Channel 4 soap .
Anna starred in Brookside for three years after starting on the show in 1994 .
Anna 's mum Maria wrote : `` She will be remembered for her warmth , her wit , her clarity , her forthrightness , and above all for her beautiful and innocent humanity .
`` Anna may have been born with special needs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in herself that we were the ones who needed her .
`` Her smile shone a bright light into the world of everyone who was lucky enough to meet her .
`` Our loss is greater than we can ever say . ''
Her aunt said : `` Anna Kate Norbury who won the hearts of millions as Alice Farnham in Brookside and more recently in the Channel 4 documentary Home Free with her boyfriend Joe , with whom she was on the cusp of beginning independent living has died aged 26 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'Sinbad ' Sweeney , wrote : `` Today we say farewell to Anna Norbury . ''
In his tribute , he added : `` She was ‘ Baby Alice Farnham ’ in Brookside .
`` She was one of the most treasured and beautiful young cast members .
`` Love and strength to her wonderful family . ''

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Anna Norbury has died at the age of just 26, it has been confirmed.
The former soap actress starred in Brookside.
Tributes have been paid to the actress who played Alice Farnham in the Channel 4 soap.
Anna starred in Brookside for three years after starting on the show in 1994.
Anna's mum Maria wrote: "She will be remembered for her warmth, her wit, her clarity, her forthrightness, and above all for her beautiful and innocent humanity.
"Anna may have been born with special needs, but she was so special and unique in herself that we were the ones who needed her.
"Her smile shone a bright light into the world of everyone who was lucky enough to meet her.
"Our loss is greater than we can ever say."
Her aunt said: "Anna Kate Norbury who won the hearts of millions as Alice Farnham in Brookside and more recently in the Channel 4 documentary Home Free with her boyfriend Joe, with whom she was on the cusp of beginning independent living has died aged 26."
Michael Starke, who played Thomas 'Sinbad' Sweeney, wrote: "Today we say farewell to Anna Norbury."
In his tribute, he added: "She was ‘Baby Alice Farnham’ in Brookside.
"She was one of the most treasured and beautiful young cast members.
"Love and strength to her wonderful family."