birminghammail--2020-12-26--Villa fans will agree with Merson's huge claim about Grealish

Paul Merson has placed Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish amongst football ’ s finest on current form .
Grealish , 25 , has been in wonderful form for club and country since the campaign resumed in September and has received rave reviews from opposing managers and pundits .
Many now believe Grealish , who only made his England debut a few short months ago , is a certain pick for Gareth Southgate 's Euros squad next summer .
And speaking before Villa 's game with Crystal Palace on Boxing Day , former Villa Park hero Merson spoke glowingly about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky Sports ’ Soccer Saturday .
“ I just want to watch Jack Grealish , ” Merson said .
“ I don ’ t think he gets the credit he deserves sometimes .
I think he ’ s up there with the best in the world at the moment , I really do .
“ I think he ’ s that good .
I ’ ve been saying this for a long , long time .
He ’ s a special footballer and I love watching him play .
“ Don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play that way you have to have the ( right ) players around ( him ) and Dean Smith has it to a tee .
He has hard workers in midfield who win the ball back and get back in shape , he ’ s got two centre-halves who are very solid , I like ( Matty ) Cash - he ’ s a good full-back - and the goalie has been outstanding.
” Smith has often deployed Grealish out on the left but he ’ s moved his playmaker into a central @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Dean Smith takes a lot of credit , ” added Merson .
“ He ’ s set up a team to get the absolute best out of one of the best players in the business as we sit here today .
I just love watching the lad play .
He excites me and he does things that I don ’ t think other people can do.
” Merson 's Sky Sports colleague Tony Cottee echoed those thoughts and challenged Villa to capitalise on their positive start to the season and push @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` I agree with Merse , I love Jack Grealish - I think he gives you something different .
I love the manager , he ’ s doing a really good job and I ’ m pleased he ’ s been given the backing .
`` Why not go for a Europa League spot ?
They ’ ve got enough decent players .
It ’ s a fantastic football club and all they need is that consistency , which is what everyone in the Premier League is striving for . ''

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Paul Merson has placed Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish amongst football’s finest on current form.
Grealish, 25, has been in wonderful form for club and country since the campaign resumed in September and has received rave reviews from opposing managers and pundits.
Many now believe Grealish, who only made his England debut a few short months ago, is a certain pick for Gareth Southgate's Euros squad next summer.
And speaking before Villa's game with Crystal Palace on Boxing Day, former Villa Park hero Merson spoke glowingly about the club’s current number 10 on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday.
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“I just want to watch Jack Grealish,” Merson said. “I don’t think he gets the credit he deserves sometimes. I think he’s up there with the best in the world at the moment, I really do.
“I think he’s that good. I’ve been saying this for a long, long time. He’s a special footballer and I love watching him play.
“Don’t get me wrong, for him to play that way you have to have the (right) players around (him) and Dean Smith has it to a tee. He has hard workers in midfield who win the ball back and get back in shape, he’s got two centre-halves who are very solid, I like (Matty) Cash - he’s a good full-back - and the goalie has been outstanding.”
Smith has often deployed Grealish out on the left but he’s moved his playmaker into a central position to great effect in recent weeks.
“Dean Smith takes a lot of credit,” added Merson. “He’s set up a team to get the absolute best out of one of the best players in the business as we sit here today. I just love watching the lad play. He excites me and he does things that I don’t think other people can do.”
Merson's Sky Sports colleague Tony Cottee echoed those thoughts and challenged Villa to capitalise on their positive start to the season and push for a place in Europe.
He said: "I agree with Merse, I love Jack Grealish - I think he gives you something different. I love the manager, he’s doing a really good job and I’m pleased he’s been given the backing.
"Why not go for a Europa League spot? They’ve got enough decent players. It’s a fantastic football club and all they need is that consistency, which is what everyone in the Premier League is striving for."


birminghammail--2020-12-26--PS5 stock availability checker - Game, Amazon, John Lewis and more

Sony 's PlayStation 5 arrived in time for Christmas - but left plenty of kids disappointed after being sold out in incredible time .
The console was snapped up after its launch , leaving some kids heartbroken on Christmas Day as they failed to receive the present on the top of their Christmas gift lifts .
But if a Sony PS5 was on your child 's wishlist , do not fear - because a raft of UK retailers say it wo n't be long until they have the widely anticipated console back on sale .
The console is a forward-thinking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game console developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment .
It was announced last year and , ever since , excitement has been fervent and expectation frenzied as gaming fans look to sample the console for the first time .
Here are the latest stock updates : Online retailer Very shared a statement to its , which reads : `` Unfortunately we have sold out of our PS5 consoles for now .
We have more stock coming so keep checking back for our next drop . ''
A note on says the retailer does not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PS5 will be back in stock .
In a message on the , it has confirmed to customers that the PS5 is now out of stock - and it is not expecting more for the rest of 2020 .
The statement said : `` Sorry , PlayStation5 is currently unavailable .
We will not have any further stock for the rest of 2020 . ''
has now sold out of its allocated stock .
A message on the retailer 's website says that PS5 stock is now not expected until January 2021 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , though shoppers can .
A statement on the said : `` Thank you to everyone who has visited us and placed an order for a PS5 .
We are now out of stock .
`` Unfortunately , PlayStation 5 consoles will not be available for purchase at our John Lewis & Partners shops or from our contact centres . ''
no longer has PS5 stock available , with no update on when new stock will arrive .
According to BT ’ s website , the store had sold out of its PS5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s website says : “ Sorry , Playstation 5 is currently unavailable.
” A note on Curry ’ s website says the retailer is “ working tirelessly to secure more stock ” and customers should check back for updates .

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Sony's PlayStation 5 arrived in time for Christmas - but left plenty of kids disappointed after being sold out in incredible time.
The console was snapped up after its launch, leaving some kids heartbroken on Christmas Day as they failed to receive the present on the top of their Christmas gift lifts.
But if a Sony PS5 was on your child's wishlist, do not fear - because a raft of UK retailers say it won't be long until they have the widely anticipated console back on sale.
The console is a forward-thinking, state of the art home video game console developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment.
It was announced last year and, ever since, excitement has been fervent and expectation frenzied as gaming fans look to sample the console for the first time.
Here are the latest stock updates:
Very
Online retailer Very shared a statement to its website , which reads: "Unfortunately we have sold out of our PS5 consoles for now. We have more stock coming so keep checking back for our next drop."
Amazon
A note on Amazon's website says the retailer does not know "when or if" the PS5 will be back in stock.
(Image: Sony)
Argos
In a message on the Argos website , it has confirmed to customers that the PS5 is now out of stock - and it is not expecting more for the rest of 2020.
The statement said: "Sorry, PlayStation5 is currently unavailable. We will not have any further stock for the rest of 2020."
Smyths
Smyths has now sold out of its allocated stock. A message on the retailer's website says that PS5 stock is now not expected until January 2021.
Studio
Retailer Studio is now out of stock, though shoppers can register their interest online now .
John Lewis
A statement on the John Lewis website said: "Thank you to everyone who has visited us and placed an order for a PS5. We are now out of stock.
"Unfortunately, PlayStation 5 consoles will not be available for purchase at our John Lewis & Partners shops or from our contact centres."
Game
Game no longer has PS5 stock available, with no update on when new stock will arrive.
BT
According to BT’s website, the store had sold out of its PS5 allocation.
(Image: PA)
AO.com
A note on AO’s website says: “Sorry, Playstation 5 is currently unavailable.”
Curry’s
A note on Curry’s website says the retailer is “working tirelessly to secure more stock” and customers should check back for updates.


birminghammail--2020-12-29--KFC makes vegan burger announcement after axing it from menu

KFC has revealed that it will be bringing back its vegan burger after all its stores were forced to take it down .
Pre-pandemic , the KFC vegan burger was a game-changer for many people who were attempting to cut animal products from their diet .
And after lockdown , the popular fast food restaurant was forced to go to a limited menu which angered many vegans .
However , KFC has announced it will be re-releasing the burger next month .
It will officially return to 750 restaurants from January 4 after being absent from the menu for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urging for KFC to bring back the burger on Twitter .
One person said : `` Sorry but when is KFC bringing back their vegan burgers ?
! ''
while another person added : `` i miss the vegan food in the uk , i randomly crave different things so often .
Rn ( right now ) it ’ s the vegan kfc burger '' .
Another person added : `` I would chop off my left arm just to have the vegan kfc burger '' .
And a fourth chimed in and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vegan burger back pls pls pls '' .
You can find the list of restaurants here .
The best thing is that Birmingham restaurants are some of the stores that will be bringing it back .
KFC has released a list of the restaurants that will get the new burger .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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KFC has revealed that it will be bringing back its vegan burger after all its stores were forced to take it down.
Pre-pandemic, the KFC vegan burger was a game-changer for many people who were attempting to cut animal products from their diet.
And after lockdown, the popular fast food restaurant was forced to go to a limited menu which angered many vegans.
However, KFC has announced it will be re-releasing the burger next month. It will officially return to 750 restaurants from January 4 after being absent from the menu for a while.
Tons of people have been urging for KFC to bring back the burger on Twitter.
One person said: "Sorry but when is KFC bringing back their vegan burgers?!" while another person added: "i miss the vegan food in the uk, i randomly crave different things so often. Rn (right now) it’s the vegan kfc burger".
Another person added: "I would chop off my left arm just to have the vegan kfc burger".
And a fourth chimed in and said: "kfc pls bring ur vegan burger back pls pls pls".
You can find the list of restaurants here.
The best thing is that Birmingham restaurants are some of the stores that will be bringing it back. KFC has released a list of the restaurants that will get the new burger.


birminghammail--2020-12-29--10 players could miss West Brom vs Leeds United clash

Leeds United are set to be without five players for tonight 's clash against West Bromwich Albion with both sides depleted by injuries .
Having edged past Burnley on Sunday lunchtime , Leeds visit The Hawthorns this evening in the first Premier League meeting of the season between last term 's Championship top two .
Head coach Marcelo Bielsa had to field a makeshift three-man defence consisting of Pascal Struijk , full-back Luke Ayling and midfielder Kalvin Phillips against Burnley because of injury problems at centre-back .
Liam Cooper , Robin Koch and Diego Llorente are all ruled out tonight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back four because of Albion 's tactic of fielding Karlan Grant as a lone striker .
Leeds will also be without long-term absentees Gaetano Berardi and Adam Forshaw as they aim to break into the top half of the table .
After their hard earned point at Liverpool on Sunday , rest and recovery will have been the order of the day for the Baggies squad with just 48 hours between matches .
Conor Townsend , Kyle Bartley , Hal Robson-Kanu and Sam Field are all doubts , if not confirmed absentees , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It depends on the reaction we get against Leeds at home , ” boss Sam Allardyce explained .
“ What can we do to get the team recovered ?
How quickly can we recover ?
Me and Sammy ( Lee , assistant ) are not that sure about the squad yet because we have only trained with them - we have not seen them play much .
“ I ’ m not so sure we can make too many changes but certainly , we will do our best to help players recover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be made , hopefully , the player that comes in will do what the players have done today which is play together and work extremely hard .
“ But obviously , against Leeds , we have to go and try and win .
We have to be more creative when we have got possession .
”

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Leeds United are set to be without five players for tonight's clash against West Bromwich Albion with both sides depleted by injuries.
Having edged past Burnley on Sunday lunchtime, Leeds visit The Hawthorns this evening in the first Premier League meeting of the season between last term's Championship top two.
Head coach Marcelo Bielsa had to field a makeshift three-man defence consisting of Pascal Struijk, full-back Luke Ayling and midfielder Kalvin Phillips against Burnley because of injury problems at centre-back.
Liam Cooper, Robin Koch and Diego Llorente are all ruled out tonight with Bielsa expected to revert to a back four because of Albion's tactic of fielding Karlan Grant as a lone striker.
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Leeds will also be without long-term absentees Gaetano Berardi and Adam Forshaw as they aim to break into the top half of the table.
After their hard earned point at Liverpool on Sunday, rest and recovery will have been the order of the day for the Baggies squad with just 48 hours between matches.
Conor Townsend, Kyle Bartley, Hal Robson-Kanu and Sam Field are all doubts, if not confirmed absentees, while Jake Livermore is still suspended.
“It depends on the reaction we get against Leeds at home,” boss Sam Allardyce explained. “What can we do to get the team recovered? How quickly can we recover? Me and Sammy (Lee, assistant) are not that sure about the squad yet because we have only trained with them - we have not seen them play much.
“I’m not so sure we can make too many changes but certainly, we will do our best to help players recover quickly, and if there are changes to be made, hopefully, the player that comes in will do what the players have done today which is play together and work extremely hard.
“But obviously, against Leeds, we have to go and try and win. We have to be more creative when we have got possession.”


birminghammail--2020-12-29--British man refused entry to Majorca in latest Covid crackdown

A British man was turned away from a Spanish holiday airport because of fears over the new Covid-19 variant .
He had taken a flight from Stansted to visit friends in Majorca , but he was refused entry to the resort on Saturday following the latest coronavirus crackdown .
National Police officers in Majorca reported the man was blocked from entry to the holiday island because he could not prove he had residency and emergency restrictions had been introduced following the emergence of the new Covid variant .
It is understood that there were 27 passengers on the Ryanair flight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was the only passenger on board who did not satisfy entry restrictions .
All Spanish passengers or residents from the UK who are allowed to enter Spain must produce a negative PCR test result carried out no more than 72 hours before arrival .
The Spanish Government toughened entry restrictions from the UK on December 22 and these strict new rules are expected to remain in place until at least January 5 .
Bars , restaurants and cafes in Majorca are also forced to close at 6pm and there is an 8pm curfew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open at weekends during the latest crackdown .

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A British man was turned away from a Spanish holiday airport because of fears over the new Covid-19 variant.
He had taken a flight from Stansted to visit friends in Majorca, but he was refused entry to the resort on Saturday following the latest coronavirus crackdown.
National Police officers in Majorca reported the man was blocked from entry to the holiday island because he could not prove he had residency and emergency restrictions had been introduced following the emergence of the new Covid variant.
It is understood that there were 27 passengers on the Ryanair flight, including 10 Spaniards. The man was the only passenger on board who did not satisfy entry restrictions.
All Spanish passengers or residents from the UK who are allowed to enter Spain must produce a negative PCR test result carried out no more than 72 hours before arrival.
The Spanish Government toughened entry restrictions from the UK on December 22 and these strict new rules are expected to remain in place until at least January 5.
Bars, restaurants and cafes in Majorca are also forced to close at 6pm and there is an 8pm curfew.
Shopping centres are not allowed to open at weekends during the latest crackdown.


birminghammail--2020-12-29--When snow is set to fall in Birmingham as severe warning issued by Met Office

More snow is on its way to Birmingham according to forecasters as temperatures continue to reach lows of 0C .
The Met Office has said that snow will fall from 10am until 12pm later today ( December 29 ) despite the city and parts of the West Midlands getting heavy sprinkling yesterday morning .
This comes after a yellow weather warning was issued by weather experts .
The warning , which runs from today until December 31 , has told people to prepare for `` disruption '' from snow and ice .
A statement from the Met Office 's Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will move into southern Wales and England on Wednesday , turning to snow in places and leaving a risk of ice '' .
It says that between 2cm to 5cm of snow could fall in some areas .
The Met Office has warned that snow and ice could cause delays or cancellations of train and bus services .
The weather conditions could also cause further delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers , along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel .
There is a slight chance that power cuts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as phone coverage , the Met Office added .
People have been warned to be careful as there is a small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces .
The AA has warned many drivers to consider whether or not they should travel in such treacherous conditions .
Ben Sheridan , of the AA , said : `` Thawing snow , rainfalls and freezing temperatures overnight lead to challenging driving conditions , with roads likely to be icy in the morning . ''
But the AA added regional restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 , mean that roads are quieter than normal .
Snow and sleet with highs of 1C Cloudy with a 10 per cent chance of rain or snow Cloudy and starting to get darker with highs of 2C Small chance of rain but will remain cloudy Starting to get colder with highs of 1C Very low chance of rain with temperatures reaching 1C It will start to feel colder as it reaches 1C but will feel like -3C according to the Met Office Less than a 5 per cent chance of rain or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reach 1C as it gets darker during the night A very still and cloudy night with temperatures reaching 1C

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More snow has arrived in Birmingham as temperatures continue to reach lows of 0C.
The Met Office forecast snow fall today (December 29) after the city and parts of the West Midlands had a heavy sprinkling yesterday.
A yellow weather warning is in place until December 31, urging people to prepare for "disruption" from snow and ice.
A statement from the Met Office's Twitter said: "A spell of rain will move into southern Wales and England on Wednesday, turning to snow in places and leaving a risk of ice".
It says that between 2cm to 5cm of snow could fall in some areas. The Met Office has warned that snow and ice could cause delays or cancellations of train and bus services.
The weather conditions could also cause further delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel.
There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, potentially affecting other services such as phone coverage, the Met Office added.
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People have been warned to be careful as there is a small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces.
The AA has warned many drivers to consider whether or not they should travel in such treacherous conditions. Ben Sheridan, of the AA, said: "Thawing snow, rainfalls and freezing temperatures overnight lead to challenging driving conditions, with roads likely to be icy in the morning."
But the AA added regional restrictions, which have been imposed due to Covid-19, mean that roads are quieter than normal.
Hour-by-hour forecast for Birmingham
12pm
Snow with highs of 0C
1pm
Snow and sleet with highs of 1C
2pm
Cloudy with a 10 per cent chance of rain or snow
3pm
Sunny intervals with a small chance of rain
4pm
Cloudy and starting to get darker with highs of 2C
5pm
Small chance of rain but will remain cloudy
6pm
Starting to get colder with highs of 1C
7pm
Very low chance of rain with temperatures reaching 1C
8pm
It will start to feel colder as it reaches 1C but will feel like -3C according to the Met Office
9pm
Less than a 5 per cent chance of rain or snow and will stay cloudy
10pm
Temperatures will reach 1C as it gets darker during the night
11pm
A very still and cloudy night with temperatures reaching 1C


birminghammail--2020-12-29--Teenager to be deliberately infected with coronavirus for trial

A Staffordshire teenager is set to be infected with coronavirus as part of a 'human challenge trial ' .
Alastair Fraser-Urquhart , 18 , will be among 2,500 18 to 30-year-olds to be given the virus in a 'secure bio-containment suite ' next month .
The teen from Stoke-on-Trent volunteered to take part in the trial to speed up research of an experimental nasal vaccine .
New research has found that people who suffered a mild version of the disease enjoyed immunity which lasted at least four months .
The volunteers are reportedly going to be paid £4,000 to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told he was to be locked up in the clinic for at least two weeks as researchers monitored his body 's response , reports StokeOnTrentLive .
He said : `` I 'll be remaining at the clinic , really , for as long as it takes .
`` Obviously we ca n't have it infecting anyone who is n't part of the trial , so every volunteer would need to be held in bio-containment .
`` It was just something that made instant sense to me , really . ''
Writing for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obvious downside is that you have to expose volunteers to coronavirus , which is risky – given that virtually the whole world has been trying to prevent infections , causing them seems counter-productive .
Yet , infecting volunteers with the virus will help us test vaccines more quickly .
`` I ’ m lucky that my friends and family have been incredibly supportive .
We ’ ve spent a lot of time talking about it , and they understand why I feel the need to do this .
They think I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenge studies are rarely undertaken as there are ethical questions around deliberately infecting people with viruses .
The first 90 participants are expected to begin the trial in January and results are expected by May .
The Royal Free Hospital in Camden , London , will use its specialist diseases clinic to house the volunteers for two to three weeks and provide a safe environment insuring the virus can not break out .
Immune responses samples will then be sent to the Ministry of Defence laboratory at Porton Down to be tested .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ day and the drug remdesivir will be given as soon as even mild symptoms occur .
They will then be checked for up to a year after taking part .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Hayley Parker, Chris  Harper)

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A Staffordshire teenager is set to be infected with coronavirus as part of a 'human challenge trial'.
Alastair Fraser-Urquhart, 18, will be among 2,500 18 to 30-year-olds to be given the virus in a 'secure bio-containment suite' next month.
The teen from Stoke-on-Trent volunteered to take part in the trial to speed up research of an experimental nasal vaccine.
New research has found that people who suffered a mild version of the disease enjoyed immunity which lasted at least four months.
The volunteers are reportedly going to be paid £4,000 to take part.
Alastair said he had been told he was to be locked up in the clinic for at least two weeks as researchers monitored his body's response, reports StokeOnTrentLive.
He said: "I'll be remaining at the clinic, really, for as long as it takes.
"Obviously we can't have it infecting anyone who isn't part of the trial, so every volunteer would need to be held in bio-containment.
"It was just something that made instant sense to me, really."
Writing for the Metro, Alastair added: "The obvious downside is that you have to expose volunteers to coronavirus, which is risky – given that virtually the whole world has been trying to prevent infections, causing them seems counter-productive. Yet, infecting volunteers with the virus will help us test vaccines more quickly.
"I’m lucky that my friends and family have been incredibly supportive. We’ve spent a lot of time talking about it, and they understand why I feel the need to do this. They think I’m making a good decision."
Human challenge studies are rarely undertaken as there are ethical questions around deliberately infecting people with viruses.
The first 90 participants are expected to begin the trial in January and results are expected by May.
The Royal Free Hospital in Camden, London, will use its specialist diseases clinic to house the volunteers for two to three weeks and provide a safe environment insuring the virus cannot break out.
Immune responses samples will then be sent to the Ministry of Defence laboratory at Porton Down to be tested.
Participants will be monitored 24 hours a day and the drug remdesivir will be given as soon as even mild symptoms occur.
They will then be checked for up to a year after taking part.


birminghammail--2020-12-30--The top ten West Midlands Covid hotspots ahead of Tier review

Neighbourhoods across Birmingham , Black Country , Staffordshire and Worcestershire have alarmingly high Covid infection rates - just hours before a Tier review begins .
Fears are growing that a large swathe of the region could be plunged into Tier 4 restrictions - as coronavirus cases continue to surge .
An interactive map - which is released by the government - shows that Honeybourne in Worcestershire has the highest infection rate with a staggering 780 cases per 100,000 people .
Two postcodes in Wolverhampton and one in Staffordshire also top the list for worryingly high cases .
A number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table , which calculates rates up until December 24 .
Today 's 3pm Tier review ( December 30 ) comes after news the Covid-19 vaccine from Oxford University and AstraZeneca has been approved for use in the UK , paving the way for mass rollout .
The jab , which has been described as a `` game-changer '' , was given the green light by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) .
The UK has ordered 100 million doses of the vaccine - enough to vaccinate 50 million people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a January 4 rollout .
He called it `` fantastic news '' , adding vaccinations could `` really accelerate '' in the coming weeks .
The Health Secretary appeared opposite Charlotte Hawkins and Sean Fletcher on Good Morning Britain ahead of the tier review to outline further action may be needed .
When quizzed , Mr Hancock said : `` I 'm afraid I 'm going to have to ... we 're going to have to extend the Tier 4 areas ... '' He added : `` It is absolutely necessary to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 areas with the highest Covid-19 infection rates in Birmingham , Black Country , Worcestershire and Staffordshire :

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Neighbourhoods across Birmingham, Black Country, Staffordshire and Worcestershire have alarmingly high Covid infection rates - just hours before a Tier review begins.
Fears are growing that a large swathe of the region could be plunged into Tier 4 restrictions - as coronavirus cases continue to surge.
An interactive map - which is released by the government - shows that Honeybourne in Worcestershire has the highest infection rate with a staggering 780 cases per 100,000 people.
Two postcodes in Wolverhampton and one in Staffordshire also top the list for worryingly high cases.
A number of neighbourhoods in Birmingham also feature on the table, which calculates rates up until December 24.
Today's 3pm Tier review (December 30) comes after news the Covid-19 vaccine from Oxford University and AstraZeneca has been approved for use in the UK, paving the way for mass rollout.
The jab, which has been described as a "game-changer", was given the green light by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
The UK has ordered 100 million doses of the vaccine - enough to vaccinate 50 million people, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirming a January 4 rollout.
He called it "fantastic news", adding vaccinations could "really accelerate" in the coming weeks.
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The Health Secretary appeared opposite Charlotte Hawkins and Sean Fletcher on Good Morning Britain ahead of the tier review to outline further action may be needed.
When quizzed, Mr Hancock said: "I'm afraid I'm going to have to... we're going to have to extend the Tier 4 areas..."
He added: "It is absolutely necessary to take further action."
These are the 10 areas with the highest Covid-19 infection rates in Birmingham, Black Country, Worcestershire and Staffordshire:


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Dad tries to cover kids in snow from top of gazebo - but prank backfires

This is the moment a dad tried to cover his kids in snow from the top of his gazebo - only for it to completely collapse on top of him .
Daniel Campbell , 34 , tried to scrape off a bit of snow that had settled on the roof of the structure onto his kids Kacey , 15 , Finley , 10 , and Nate , seven , while wife Lucy , 34 , filmed .
But after failing to give them the shower he desired , his plan backfired and the gazebo collapsed on his head , leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mum-of-three , who owns a cafe , said : `` We knew there would be fresh snow as the café had been locked up , and my husband told me to start filming because he wanted to bash all the snow off the gazebo onto the kids !
`` He was trying to prank the kids but it obviously backfired !
`` I stopped laughing for a bit because I did n't know if he was ok , but when he crawled out from under the gazebo I carried on ! ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customers whilst they wait for their takeaway orders , but sadly did not survive the hijinks by construction company owner Daniel .
Lucy said : `` We have to go and buy an emergency one tomorrow before the café opens up ! ''
The Black Country saw two inches of snow overnight on December 27 and the clip was filmed the next day .

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This is the moment a dad tried to cover his kids in snow from the top of his gazebo - only for it to completely collapse on top of him.
Daniel Campbell, 34, tried to scrape off a bit of snow that had settled on the roof of the structure onto his kids Kacey, 15, Finley, 10, and Nate, seven, while wife Lucy, 34, filmed.
But after failing to give them the shower he desired, his plan backfired and the gazebo collapsed on his head, leaving the whole family in hysterics.
The mum-of-three, who owns a cafe, said: "We knew there would be fresh snow as the café had been locked up, and my husband told me to start filming because he wanted to bash all the snow off the gazebo onto the kids!
"He was trying to prank the kids but it obviously backfired!
(Image: Lucy Campbell / SWNS.COM)
"I stopped laughing for a bit because I didn't know if he was ok, but when he crawled out from under the gazebo I carried on!"
The gazebo in Wolverhampton was used to shelter customers whilst they wait for their takeaway orders, but sadly did not survive the hijinks by construction company owner Daniel.
(Image: Lucy Campbell / SWNS.COM)
Lucy said: "We have to go and buy an emergency one tomorrow before the café opens up!"
The Black Country saw two inches of snow overnight on December 27 and the clip was filmed the next day.


birminghammail--2020-12-30--The chilling reality of Birmingham City's defeat to Derby County

Last night ’ s 4-0 hammering by Derby County was a sobering experience for anyone connected with Birmingham City .
If there was even a slight possibility that Middlesbrough ’ s 4-1 victory at St Andrew ’ s before Christmas could be dismissed as an aberration , then that had been totally dismissed within half an hour on Tuesday evening .
Blues conceded four in 63 minutes against Boro , went away to draw 0-0 at shot-shy Nottingham Forest , then returned to ship another three in 26 minutes against the Rams .
Seven spread across two home matches is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been preaching since his appointment in the summer .
Here ’ s what stood out on a night that was memorable for all the wrong reasons .
A few weeks ago Karanka settled on his preferred system , the 4-2-3-1 which seems to suit the squad make-up best .
However , with so many games in such a short space of time , 12 matches in six weeks , he has felt the need to rotate players within that system to maintain freshness and mitigate against injuries .
Last night the only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relatively minimal , Kristian Pedersen and Gary Gardner in for the injured pair Marc Roberts and Alen Halilovic .
The maddeningly ironic outcome was that for the relative consistency of selection Blues ’ defensive display was nothing like as organised as at the City Ground on Boxing Day .
Where Neil Etheridge had been sturdy against Forest , he simply gave a goal to Derby .
Where Harlee Dean had been solid on Saturday , he had a hand in the second and fourth goals last night .
Consistency of selection did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Karanka is left scratching his head about that , he has no option but to find a solution .
He also made mistakes , the omission of Maikel Kieftenbeld in recent games has sapped Blues ’ energy and wide-right is not the best use of Gary Gardner ’ s talents .
He will hope the players find the answers for him , if not we could be back in the uber-defensive months of October and November when it was five at the back and a reliance on opportunism and set-pieces for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last two home matches have been a major step backwards .
Simply deploying Alen Halilovic at No .
10 will not suddenly transform Blues into Barca c.2010 nor will recalling George Friend make them Mourinho ’ s Inter Milan .
Restoring Kieftenbeld to the midfield would increase the energy and bite but will not drastically improve possession of the football .
Mikel San Jose might do that but he has not shown the dynamism to cope in a Championship midfield .
Jake Clarke-Salter is not in the kind of form which makes him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the other central defenders and you can pick your poison up front but neither Scott Hogan nor Lukas Jutkiewicz guarantee goals , particularly not without service .
In short most alternatives are suboptimal and fans shouldn ’ t expect the transfer window to bring much by way of silver bullets either .
Even after last night ’ s mauling Karanka downplayed the suggestion the need for new recruits is never more obvious .
He said : “ When you have a squad of 25 or 26 players you have a lot of players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to play.
” The solution has to be found within the current squad and honestly , there should be enough options within that to ensure Blues don ’ t get sucked into another relegation battle – although last night suggested the reverse .
Karanka denied that last night ’ s display was ‘ relegation level ’ .
“ It ’ s not about relegation , it is the game that we played – the performance today is not a relegation performance and the performance against Reading or Bristol is not a play-off or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ express his belief that after the struggles of recent years he never expected Blues to be in the race for promotion .
“ We are in the place we should be because we are not good enough to be higher in the table but it is true that if we keep doing the things we know to do , we will go up in the table.
” For those of us who have watched Blues over the last four years , since the sacking of Gary Rowett , the last two home matches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the worst displays in that time .
Blues have rescued themselves on those occasions , with inferior squads – and they should , there ’ s that word again , be able to sort this one out too .
But no-one must stick their heads in the sand and think ‘ It ’ ll be OK this time because it has been in the past ’ .
Errors and displays like last night only point in only one direction .
2020 has been an annus horribilis on many levels , one small facet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s home form .
Starting with the desperate 3-2 loss to Wigan on New Year ’ s Day Blues ended last season with one win and five draws from their final 11 home matches .
They ’ ve also played 11 this season too and have a record of two victories , two losses and seven defeats .
Last night ’ s rout ended a current calendar year that has produced a record of P22 W3 D7 L12 and a mere 16 points .
Fans or no fans , shared pitch or no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excuses , tenants Coventry City have taken 17 points at St Andrew ’ s this season alone .
That lack of a solid foundation is one of the most worrying aspects of this situation .

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Last night’s 4-0 hammering by Derby County was a sobering experience for anyone connected with Birmingham City.
If there was even a slight possibility that Middlesbrough’s 4-1 victory at St Andrew’s before Christmas could be dismissed as an aberration, then that had been totally dismissed within half an hour on Tuesday evening.
Blues conceded four in 63 minutes against Boro, went away to draw 0-0 at shot-shy Nottingham Forest, then returned to ship another three in 26 minutes against the Rams.
Seven spread across two home matches is nothing like the defensive solidity Aitor Karanka has been preaching since his appointment in the summer.
Here’s what stood out on a night that was memorable for all the wrong reasons.
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Backwards step
A few weeks ago Karanka settled on his preferred system, the 4-2-3-1 which seems to suit the squad make-up best.
However, with so many games in such a short space of time, 12 matches in six weeks, he has felt the need to rotate players within that system to maintain freshness and mitigate against injuries.
Last night the only rotation was enforced and the changes were relatively minimal, Kristian Pedersen and Gary Gardner in for the injured pair Marc Roberts and Alen Halilovic.
The maddeningly ironic outcome was that for the relative consistency of selection Blues’ defensive display was nothing like as organised as at the City Ground on Boxing Day.
Where Neil Etheridge had been sturdy against Forest, he simply gave a goal to Derby.
Where Harlee Dean had been solid on Saturday, he had a hand in the second and fourth goals last night.
Consistency of selection did not produce consistency of performance but as much as Karanka is left scratching his head about that, he has no option but to find a solution.
He also made mistakes, the omission of Maikel Kieftenbeld in recent games has sapped Blues’ energy and wide-right is not the best use of Gary Gardner’s talents.
He will hope the players find the answers for him, if not we could be back in the uber-defensive months of October and November when it was five at the back and a reliance on opportunism and set-pieces for a goal.
Make no mistake, the last two home matches have been a major step backwards.
No cavalry
There’s no plug-and-play, quick-fix solution to Blues’ shortcomings.
Simply deploying Alen Halilovic at No. 10 will not suddenly transform Blues into Barca c.2010 nor will recalling George Friend make them Mourinho’s Inter Milan.
Restoring Kieftenbeld to the midfield would increase the energy and bite but will not drastically improve possession of the football. Mikel San Jose might do that but he has not shown the dynamism to cope in a Championship midfield.
Jake Clarke-Salter is not in the kind of form which makes him an automatic selection ahead of any of the other central defenders and you can pick your poison up front but neither Scott Hogan nor Lukas Jutkiewicz guarantee goals, particularly not without service.
In short most alternatives are suboptimal and fans shouldn’t expect the transfer window to bring much by way of silver bullets either.
Even after last night’s mauling Karanka downplayed the suggestion the need for new recruits is never more obvious.
He said: “When you have a squad of 25 or 26 players you have a lot of players who know that they are not going to play.”
The solution has to be found within the current squad and honestly, there should be enough options within that to ensure Blues don’t get sucked into another relegation battle – although last night suggested the reverse.
No hiding
Karanka denied that last night’s display was ‘relegation level’.
“It’s not about relegation, it is the game that we played – the performance today is not a relegation performance and the performance against Reading or Bristol is not a play-off or promotion performance.”
He went on to express his belief that after the struggles of recent years he never expected Blues to be in the race for promotion.
“We are in the place we should be because we are not good enough to be higher in the table but it is true that if we keep doing the things we know to do, we will go up in the table.”
For those of us who have watched Blues over the last four years, since the sacking of Gary Rowett, the last two home matches have been chillingly reminiscent of some of the worst displays in that time.
Blues have rescued themselves on those occasions, with inferior squads – and they should , there’s that word again, be able to sort this one out too.
But no-one must stick their heads in the sand and think ‘It’ll be OK this time because it has been in the past’.
Errors and displays like last night only point in only one direction.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Home a-groan
2020 has been an annus horribilis on many levels, one small facet of that has been Birmingham City’s home form.
Starting with the desperate 3-2 loss to Wigan on New Year’s Day Blues ended last season with one win and five draws from their final 11 home matches.
They’ve also played 11 this season too and have a record of two victories, two losses and seven defeats.
Last night’s rout ended a current calendar year that has produced a record of P22 W3 D7 L12 and a mere 16 points.
Fans or no fans, shared pitch or no shared pitch, there can be no excuses, tenants Coventry City have taken 17 points at St Andrew’s this season alone.
That lack of a solid foundation is one of the most worrying aspects of this situation.


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Pregnant women and those breastfeeding CAN take coronavirus vaccine

The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine can be taken by pregnant women `` when the potential benefits outweigh the risks '' amid the Covid-19 pandemic .
Dr June Raine , chief executive of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) , said today : `` But now that we have reviewed further data that has become available , the Commission on Human Medicines has advised that the vaccine can be considered for use in pregnancy when the potential benefits outweigh the risks , following an individual discussion with every woman .
`` And as the Covid-19 vaccine AstraZeneca is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefits and risks of having the vaccine with their health professional , reaching a decision together based on individual circumstances , and women who are breastfeeding can now also be given the vaccine , subject to that individual discussion . ''
Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed , chairman of the Commission on Human Medicines expert working group on Covid-19 vaccines , said the commission looked at data in all age groups , particularly in the elderly .
He said : `` It is important to note that the vaccine does not protect immediately .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 22 before you get partial immunity after the first dose and so it is really important that people continue to follow all the government guidelines for your area of the country .
`` We obviously also looked at the safety as well and the Commission on Human Medicines concluded that the safety profile of this vaccine is broadly similar to other vaccines . ''
Prof Munir said while there is limited data on the use of the vaccine in pregnant or breastfeeding women , they should discuss the benefits and risks with their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Addressing allergies , he added : `` We 've come to the recommendation people with a known history of reacting to any specific ingredients of vaccines should not have it , but people with allergies to other medicines or food can have the vaccine . ''

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The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine can be taken by pregnant women "when the potential benefits outweigh the risks" amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Dr June Raine, chief executive of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), said today: "But now that we have reviewed further data that has become available, the Commission on Human Medicines has advised that the vaccine can be considered for use in pregnancy when the potential benefits outweigh the risks, following an individual discussion with every woman.
"And as the Covid-19 vaccine AstraZeneca is the same, women should always be discussing benefits and risks of having the vaccine with their health professional, reaching a decision together based on individual circumstances, and women who are breastfeeding can now also be given the vaccine, subject to that individual discussion."
Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed, chairman of the Commission on Human Medicines expert working group on Covid-19 vaccines, said the commission looked at data in all age groups, particularly in the elderly.
He said: "It is important to note that the vaccine does not protect immediately.
"You have to wait until day 22 before you get partial immunity after the first dose and so it is really important that people continue to follow all the government guidelines for your area of the country.
"We obviously also looked at the safety as well and the Commission on Human Medicines concluded that the safety profile of this vaccine is broadly similar to other vaccines."
Prof Munir said while there is limited data on the use of the vaccine in pregnant or breastfeeding women, they should discuss the benefits and risks with their healthcare professional and reach a decision.
Addressing allergies, he added: "We've come to the recommendation people with a known history of reacting to any specific ingredients of vaccines should not have it, but people with allergies to other medicines or food can have the vaccine."


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Martinez, Mendes, Di Maria - 28 bargain transfer deals Villa could do

The January transfer window is almost upon us , meaning Premier League clubs will soon be looking to improve their squads and move players on .
Unlike the summer window , January ’ s window can often be difficult for a lot of clubs to navigate , with prices often inflated and selling clubs reluctant to let go of key players midway through the season .
Aston Villa are likely to be keeping an eye on the window , particularly in the striker department .
To throw an extra spanner into the works , this upcoming January window is likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of clubs unlikely to spend big amounts of money on transfer fees because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic , which has stopped clubs across England from receiving regular income in terms of gate receipts .
One thing the Villa board could do is look ahead even further , to the summer .
Clubs are allowed to work on pre-contract agreements with players over the age of 23 from abroad that are out-of-contract at their current clubs at the end of the 2020/21 season .
With that in mind , here is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest names from Europe ’ s biggest leagues that Premier League clubs could strike pre-contract agreements with in January , unless they put pen to paper on a new deal at their current club , ahead of next summer ’ s window .
Big disclaimer : Let 's get it out the way and just say , Lionel Messi probably is n't going to be a viable Villa option !
He wo n't be the only one , but there are some interesting names on the list .
Any that you fancy ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to our Villa newsletter for updates ahead of the transfer deadline Why should you sign up ?
Villa have made a promising start to the season after signing Ollie Watkins , Betrand Traore , Matty Cash , Emi Martinez and Ross Barkley .
But there is still time to reshape the squad before the window closes at 6pm on Firday .
You can find the latest transfer news in on one pace - in our daily Aston Villa bulletin .
We 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 do n't think you 'll want to .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
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newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (George Smith, Steve Wollaston)

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The January transfer window is almost upon us, meaning Premier League clubs will soon be looking to improve their squads and move players on.
Unlike the summer window, January’s window can often be difficult for a lot of clubs to navigate, with prices often inflated and selling clubs reluctant to let go of key players midway through the season.
Aston Villa are likely to be keeping an eye on the window, particularly in the striker department.
To throw an extra spanner into the works, this upcoming January window is likely to be even more different, with a lot of clubs unlikely to spend big amounts of money on transfer fees because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, which has stopped clubs across England from receiving regular income in terms of gate receipts.
One thing the Villa board could do is look ahead even further, to the summer.
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Clubs are allowed to work on pre-contract agreements with players over the age of 23 from abroad that are out-of-contract at their current clubs at the end of the 2020/21 season.
With that in mind, here is a full list of some of the biggest names from Europe’s biggest leagues that Premier League clubs could strike pre-contract agreements with in January, unless they put pen to paper on a new deal at their current club, ahead of next summer’s window.
Big disclaimer: Let's get it out the way and just say, Lionel Messi probably isn't going to be a viable Villa option!
He won't be the only one, but there are some interesting names on the list. Any that you fancy? Drop us a comment below.
La Liga
Lionel Messi - Barcelona
Sergio Ramos - Real Madrid
Lucas Vazquez - Real Madrid
Franco Vazquez - Sevilla
Tomas Vaclik - Sevilla
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for updates ahead of the transfer deadline Why should you sign up? Villa have enjoyed a fine season so far after signing Ollie Watkins, Betrand Traore, Matty Cash, Emi Martinez and Ross Barkley in the summer. Morgan Sanson is the only January addition so far but there is still time to reshape the squad before the January window closes at 11pm on February 1. You can find the latest transfer news in on one pace - 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 . 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
Bundesliga
David Alaba - Bayern Munich
Jerome Boateng - Bayern Munich
Javi Martinez - Bayern Munich
Robin Quaison - Mainz
Rani Khedira - FC Augsburg
Yannick Gerhardt - Wolfsburg
Serie A
Hakan Calhanoglu - AC Milan
Arkadiusz Milik - Napoli
Henrikh Mkhitaryan - Roma
Nikola Maksimovic - Napoli
Elseid Hysaj - Napoli
Danilo D’Ambrosio - Inter Milan
Nicolas N’Koulou - Torino
Ligue 1
Memphis Depay - Lyon
Angel Di Maria - PSG
Florian Thauvin - Marseille
Juan Bernat - PSG
Jordan Amavi - Marseille
Kenny Lala - Strasbourg
Youssouf Sabaly - Bordeaux
Pablo - Bordeaux
Stevan Jovetic - AS Monaco
Pedro Mendes - Montpellier


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Birmingham Covid expert calls for schools and unis to shut in January lockdown

The Birmingham scientist who set up the city 's testing lab for coronavirus has today called for a full January lockdown - with schools and universities closed - amid a critical rise in cases in the community and desperate pressure on hospitals .
We need `` one more big sacrificial push '' to get on top of the national Covid situation , urges Prof Alan McNally , director of Birmingham University 's world-class microbiology and infection institute , who set up the city 's Lighthouse lab which tests swabs from around the country .
In a tweet last night he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now out of control .
January needs to be a severely restricted month like April .
Including schools and unis .
We are so close with the vaccine .
We need one more big sacrificial push I fear . ''
He also added that mass testing - used to identify asymptomatic cases in the community - would not likely help , adding : `` Levels of infection being observed now ... rapid testing will make little to no difference . ''
Expectations are mounting that Birmingham and the West Midlands will to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Health Secretary Matt Hancock , in the face of rising infections in the community and the impact on the region 's hospitals .
Earlier today we reported how 15 ambulances were lined up in the rain last night outside the Queen Elizabeth Hospital , most with poorly patients on board , in a stark sign of the mounting pressure .
The strain of rapidly rising Coronavirus cases is beginning to tell - with at least 50 new patients now arriving daily at the Queen Elizabeth , Heartlands and Good Hope hospitals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctor last night , fifteen ambulances are parked up outside the emergency department of the QE - and it was reported that some had been waiting in excess of three hours to offload .
The hospital - one of the biggest in the country , with the most ITU beds anywhere - is full .
At the same time cases are continuing to rise in the community .
Birmingham 's infection rate is now at 335.9 per 100,000 .
Neighbouring Sandwell has a rate of 380.6 , while in Wolverhampton it has topped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calls from scientists and health bodies who are calling for tighter coronavirus restrictions in England as cases continue to rise .
Issuing a warning ahead of a government review of the tier system this afternoon , the Independent Sage group of experts said that unless the whole country was immediately put under lockdown , there could be ‘ tens of thousands ’ of avoidable deaths .
NHS Providers , which represents members within NHS hospitals , mental health , community and ambulance services in England , also called for tier 4 restrictions to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The calls come in the same week that the number of patients in hospital with Covid in England surpassed the peak in the first wave , with 20,426 people in hospital with the disease on the 28 December , and numbers expected to rise further as cases climb .
Prof McNally set up the country 's first Lighthouse testing lab in Milton Keynes and later recreated a similar lab at the University of Birmingham , now testing swabs from around the country .
He also developed a rapid testing lab at the university @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home for Christmas , carrying out more than 8,000 Lateral Flow tests in a few days .
The Government has always maintained that it wants to ensure schools can reopen - but has already announced plans for a staggered start for secondary school pupils and a new testing regime for pupils and staff .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson will make a statement after 3.30pm in the Commons today on schools returning in January , with the exact timing depending on earlier business including the Brexit debate , the Department for Education said .

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The Birmingham scientist who set up the city's testing lab for coronavirus has today called for a full January lockdown - with schools and universities closed - amid a critical rise in cases in the community and desperate pressure on hospitals.
We need "one more big sacrificial push" to get on top of the national Covid situation, urges Prof Alan McNally, director of Birmingham University's world-class microbiology and infection institute, who set up the city's Lighthouse lab which tests swabs from around the country.
In a tweet last night he said: "The national Covid situation is now out of control. January needs to be a severely restricted month like April. Including schools and unis. We are so close with the vaccine. We need one more big sacrificial push I fear."
(Image: Dr Punith Kempegowda)
He also added that mass testing - used to identify asymptomatic cases in the community - would not likely help, adding: "Levels of infection being observed now...rapid testing will make little to no difference."
Expectations are mounting that Birmingham and the West Midlands will to be moved into Tier 4 this afternoon by Health Secretary Matt Hancock, in the face of rising infections in the community and the impact on the region's hospitals.
Earlier today we reported how 15 ambulances were lined up in the rain last night outside the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, most with poorly patients on board, in a stark sign of the mounting pressure.
The strain of rapidly rising Coronavirus cases is beginning to tell - with at least 50 new patients now arriving daily at the Queen Elizabeth, Heartlands and Good Hope hospitals.
In the picture tweeted by a hospital doctor last night, fifteen ambulances are parked up outside the emergency department of the QE - and it was reported that some had been waiting in excess of three hours to offload.
The hospital - one of the biggest in the country, with the most ITU beds anywhere - is full.
At the same time cases are continuing to rise in the community.
Birmingham's infection rate is now at 335.9 per 100,000. Neighbouring Sandwell has a rate of 380.6, while in Wolverhampton it has topped 400.
Prof McNally's comments echo calls from scientists and health bodies who are calling for tighter coronavirus restrictions in England as cases continue to rise.
Issuing a warning ahead of a government review of the tier system this afternoon, the Independent Sage group of experts said that unless the whole country was immediately put under lockdown, there could be ‘tens of thousands’ of avoidable deaths.
NHS Providers, which represents members within NHS hospitals, mental health, community and ambulance services in England, also called for tier 4 restrictions to be further extended across the country.
The calls come in the same week that the number of patients in hospital with Covid in England surpassed the peak in the first wave, with 20,426 people in hospital with the disease on the 28 December, and numbers expected to rise further as cases climb.
Prof McNally set up the country's first Lighthouse testing lab in Milton Keynes and later recreated a similar lab at the University of Birmingham, now testing swabs from around the country.
He also developed a rapid testing lab at the university's Great Hall ahead of sending students home for Christmas, carrying out more than 8,000 Lateral Flow tests in a few days.
The Government has always maintained that it wants to ensure schools can reopen - but has already announced plans for a staggered start for secondary school pupils and a new testing regime for pupils and staff.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson will make a statement after 3.30pm in the Commons today on schools returning in January, with the exact timing depending on earlier business including the Brexit debate, the Department for Education said.


birminghammail--2020-12-30--More snow on the way as yellow weather warning extended

Drivers have been urged to plan before they travel as the yellow weather warning for the West Midlands has been extended .
The warning for snow remains in place today ( Weds , Dec 30 ) after parts of Birmingham , the Black Country and Worcestershire were transformed into winter wonderland scenes on Monday and Tuesday .
Motorists were told to plan ahead amid the potential for traffic disruption on the region 's roads .
The weather warning , which is in place for much of the country , was set to last from 6pm tonight until 2pm on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There remains a Met Office weather warning for snow in the West Midlands from 6pm tonight until 2pm tomorrow ( Thursday , Dec 31 ) .
`` With the potential for disruption please ensure you plan ahead before setting off . ''
The day was set for a frosty start with icy surfaces and a 'few lingering fog patches ' , according to the Met Office forecast .
It was set to be mostly dry through the day , with some sunny spells .
Wintry showers were expected , with outbreaks of snow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was set to bring frosty temperatures of -3C .
The Met Office warned of travel disruption , with railways likely to be affected and longer journeys via the roads .
The forecast read : `` Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road , bus and train services . ''
There were also set to be light outbreaks of snow through the morning going into Thursday ( Dec 31 ) .

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Drivers have been urged to plan before they travel as the yellow weather warning for the West Midlands has been extended.
The warning for snow remains in place today (Weds, Dec 30) after parts of Birmingham, the Black Country and Worcestershire were transformed into winter wonderland scenes on Monday and Tuesday.
Motorists were told to plan ahead amid the potential for traffic disruption on the region's roads.
The weather warning, which is in place for much of the country, was set to last from 6pm tonight until 2pm on Thursday.
(Image: BirminghamLive)
West Midlands Roads warned: "There remains a Met Office weather warning for snow in the West Midlands from 6pm tonight until 2pm tomorrow (Thursday, Dec 31).
"With the potential for disruption please ensure you plan ahead before setting off."
The day was set for a frosty start with icy surfaces and a 'few lingering fog patches', according to the Met Office forecast.
It was set to be mostly dry through the day, with some sunny spells. Wintry showers were expected, with outbreaks of snow or sleet also predicted.
Wednesday night was set to bring frosty temperatures of -3C.
The Met Office warned of travel disruption, with railways likely to be affected and longer journeys via the roads.
The forecast read: "Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services."
There were also set to be light outbreaks of snow through the morning going into Thursday (Dec 31).


birminghammail--2020-12-30--RB Leipzig interested in cut-price transfer for Aston Villa wonderkid

The German side - according to Mail Online - have been scouting the 18-year-old after his star showings at youth level with Villa and England .
The winger scored a hat-trick on his England under-19s debut against Derby County 's under-23s at St George 's Park in November while , for Villa 's under-23s this term , he 's been on fire having scored five and assisted two from seven starts .
Philogene-Bidace was also shortlisted for the Premier League 2 player of the month award for November .
The Londoner signed his first professional contract - believed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in August .
Philogene-Bidace featured for Dean Smith in Villa 's pre-season friendlies before this season as well and , ahead of his deal expiring next summer , it 's Leipzig who are keen to take him .
The Bundesliga giants have a history of signing young players .
They snapped up Ademola Lookman from Everton in July 2019 while , before that , they were touted with an interest in Villa 's Louie Barry before he opted to join Barcelona from West Bromwich Albion .
Leipzig , meanwhile , signed England under-16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Man City in 2019 .
As far as Philogene-Bidace is concerned the teenager has attracted the interest of Bayern Munich , Arsenal and Man City previously .
Villa , though , think highly of the attacker and will look to commit his future further should Leipzig press ahead with their interest to sign Philogene-Bidace on the cheap .
Philogene-Bidace signed his pro deal at Villa in the summer alongside his under-23 teammates Carney Chukwuemeka , Louie Barry , Brad Burton , Kaine Kesler and Myles Sohna .
Youngsters Harrison Sohna , Charlie Farr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paper too with deals ranging from one-year contracts to the three-year deals , the maximum permitted for an academy player .
Philogene-Bidace , who 's trained with the first-team on numerous occasions , is next in Villa under-23s action against West Brom under-23s at Bodymoor Heath on January 15 .

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Talented Aston Villa teenager Jaden Philogene-Bidace is attracting strong interest from Champions League outfit RB Leipzig.
The German side - according to Mail Online - have been scouting the 18-year-old after his star showings at youth level with Villa and England.
The winger scored a hat-trick on his England under-19s debut against Derby County's under-23s at St George's Park in November while, for Villa's under-23s this term, he's been on fire having scored five and assisted two from seven starts. Philogene-Bidace was also shortlisted for the Premier League 2 player of the month award for November.
The Londoner signed his first professional contract - believed to be a one-year deal - at Aston Villa in August. Philogene-Bidace featured for Dean Smith in Villa's pre-season friendlies before this season as well and, ahead of his deal expiring next summer, it's Leipzig who are keen to take him.
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The Bundesliga giants have a history of signing young players. They snapped up Ademola Lookman from Everton in July 2019 while, before that, they were touted with an interest in Villa's Louie Barry before he opted to join Barcelona from West Bromwich Albion. Leipzig, meanwhile, signed England under-16 talent Noah Ohio, 17, from Man City in 2019.
As far as Philogene-Bidace is concerned the teenager has attracted the interest of Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Man City previously. Villa, though, think highly of the attacker and will look to commit his future further should Leipzig press ahead with their interest to sign Philogene-Bidace on the cheap.
Philogene-Bidace signed his pro deal at Villa in the summer alongside his under-23 teammates Carney Chukwuemeka, Louie Barry, Brad Burton, Kaine Kesler and Myles Sohna. Youngsters Harrison Sohna, Charlie Farr and Tristan Goodridge all put pen to paper too with deals ranging from one-year contracts to the three-year deals, the maximum permitted for an academy player.
Philogene-Bidace, who's trained with the first-team on numerous occasions, is next in Villa under-23s action against West Brom under-23s at Bodymoor Heath on January 15.


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Asda, Greggs and Costa forced to close at One Stop Shopping Centre due to fire

Asda and Greggs are among the stores at the One Stop Shopping Centre which have been forced to close today ( Wednesday ) because of a fire .
The blaze broke out in the early hours of this morning and has left parts of the mall badly damaged .
Only part of the Perry Barr centre will be open on Wednesday - with some of its big name retailers having to stay shut .
It will be a further blow to retailers as today was expected to be a busy shopping day with many families still off for the festive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent retail unit next to The Fragrance Store just yards away from the complex 's anchor store , Asda .
It broke out at 3.40am and it took 30 firefighters just under three hours to bring it under control .
But it left that section of the mall with extensive smoke and water damage .
West Midlands Fire Service recommended shoppers check that the stores they want to visit were open before setting out today .
One Stop Shopping Centre management has issued an update , detailing which retailers are open today , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These include the big Asda supermarket , along with Boots , Greggs and Costa .
Bosses said the main outdoor retail park was unaffected so all stores in that section were open as normal .
But in the indoor mall , only Holland & Barrett , Savers , British Heart Foundation , Market Village , Warren James , Mobile Plus and The One Store would open .
All the other businesses in that section would be closed throughout Wednesday .
On its website , the statement said : `` Due to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mall , some stores will be closed .
`` The main outdoor retail park is unaffected and open .
`` All others not listed inside are closed .
`` Further updates will follow and we apologise for the inconvenience . ''
West Midlands Fire Service said an investigation was being carried out , but it looked like the fire was started accidentally .
Martin Ward-White , brigade spokesman , praised the shopping centre for playing its part in containing the blaze .
He said : `` As soon as the fire started the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us straight away .
`` The on-site security team also responded very quickly .
There was also a sprinkler system in that section and that helped to extinguish the flames as well .
`` All in all , thanks to all these elements a major incident was averted and the fire was confined to just that section of the centre . ''

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Asda and Greggs are among the stores at the One Stop Shopping Centre which have been forced to close today (Wednesday) because of a fire.
The blaze broke out in the early hours of this morning and has left parts of the mall badly damaged.
Only part of the Perry Barr centre will be open on Wednesday - with some of its big name retailers having to stay shut.
(Image: West Midlands Fire Service)
It will be a further blow to retailers as today was expected to be a busy shopping day with many families still off for the festive holidays.
The fire started in an independent retail unit next to The Fragrance Store just yards away from the complex's anchor store, Asda.
It broke out at 3.40am and it took 30 firefighters just under three hours to bring it under control. But it left that section of the mall with extensive smoke and water damage.
West Midlands Fire Service recommended shoppers check that the stores they want to visit were open before setting out today.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
One Stop Shopping Centre management has issued an update, detailing which retailers are open today, and which will have to remain closed.
These include the big Asda supermarket, along with Boots, Greggs and Costa.
Bosses said the main outdoor retail park was unaffected so all stores in that section were open as normal.
But in the indoor mall, only Holland &Barrett, Savers, British Heart Foundation, Market Village, Warren James, Mobile Plus and The One Store would open. All the other businesses in that section would be closed throughout Wednesday.
On its website, the statement said: "Due to a fire overnight on 30th December inside the mall, some stores will be closed.
"The main outdoor retail park is unaffected and open.
"All others not listed inside are closed.
"Further updates will follow and we apologise for the inconvenience."
West Midlands Fire Service said an investigation was being carried out, but it looked like the fire was started accidentally.
Martin Ward-White, brigade spokesman, praised the shopping centre for playing its part in containing the blaze.
He said: "As soon as the fire started the automatic alarm system was activated and alerted us straight away.
"The on-site security team also responded very quickly. There was also a sprinkler system in that section and that helped to extinguish the flames as well.
"All in all, thanks to all these elements a major incident was averted and the fire was confined to just that section of the centre."


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Two taken to hospital after Kidderminster lorry and car crash

Two woman had to be taken to hospital after a lorry and a car crashed in icy conditions on a Worcestershire road .
The accident took place on the A442 Bridgnorth Road in Kidderminster shortly after 8am on Wednesday ( December 30 ) , with police , fire and ambulance service staff in attendance .
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said it received the call at 8.18am and sent a fire engine from Kidderminster .
West Midlands Ambulance Service said it was called at 8.10am .
A spokesman for the service said : “ We were called to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a lorry .
We sent one ambulance to the scene .
“ On arrival we discovered two patients – both women .
One was the drover of the car and the other a passenger in the car .
“ Both were treated for injuries not believed to be serious and were taken to the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch for further assessment .
Both were taken in the same ambulance.
” A spokesperson for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said : “ We attended a road traffic collision involving a heavy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thought to be due to black ice .
“ The cars were made safe by fire service personnel .
Highways [ officials were ] requested to grit roadway .
A442 closed in both directions.
” Worcestershire County Council ’ s Highways and Travel team Tweeted at 10.31am and said : “ A442 Bridgnorth Road # Kidderminster closed from ' 3 Crowns Roundabout ' due to traffic accident.
” But the road has now reopened .
A spokeswoman for West Mercia Police said : “ At around 8.15 this morning officers responded to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car and a lorry .
“ The road closure remained in place whilst the road was safely cleared and the council gritted the road .
It reopened at around 10:40am .
“ A woman was taken to hospital following the collision , thankfully her injuries are not believed to be serious .
No arrests were made .
”

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Two woman had to be taken to hospital after a lorry and a car crashed in icy conditions on a Worcestershire road.
The accident took place on the A442 Bridgnorth Road in Kidderminster shortly after 8am on Wednesday (December 30), with police, fire and ambulance service staff in attendance.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said it received the call at 8.18am and sent a fire engine from Kidderminster.
West Midlands Ambulance Service said it was called at 8.10am.
A spokesman for the service said: “We were called to reports of a collision involving a car and a lorry. We sent one ambulance to the scene.
“On arrival we discovered two patients – both women. One was the drover of the car and the other a passenger in the car.
“Both were treated for injuries not believed to be serious and were taken to the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch for further assessment. Both were taken in the same ambulance.”
A spokesperson for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “We attended a road traffic collision involving a heavy goods vehicle and a car which is thought to be due to black ice.
“The cars were made safe by fire service personnel. Highways [officials were] requested to grit roadway. A442 closed in both directions.”
Worcestershire County Council’s Highways and Travel team Tweeted at 10.31am and said: “A442 Bridgnorth Road #Kidderminster closed from '3 Crowns Roundabout' due to traffic accident.”
But the road has now reopened.
A spokeswoman for West Mercia Police said: “At around 8.15 this morning officers responded to a collision on the Bridgnorth Road involving a car and a lorry.
“The road closure remained in place whilst the road was safely cleared and the council gritted the road. It reopened at around 10:40am.
“A woman was taken to hospital following the collision, thankfully her injuries are not believed to be serious. No arrests were made.”


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Premier League determined to avoid shutting down Wolves' season

Premier League bosses are determined not to shut down the season despite clubs holding secret meetings about taking a ‘ coronavirus break ’ .
West Bromwich Albion manager Sam Allardyce last night called for a circuit-breaking fortnight-long suspension of fixtures citing concerns over his own health and that of his players .
“ Everyone ’ s safety is more important than anything else , ” Allardyce said .
“ When I listen to the news that the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus , we can only do the right thing , which is have a circuit break @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid.
” Indeed a number of clubs have discussed a two-week temporary halt next month after the Premier League announced a record number of positive tests , with 18 detected in the week between Monday December 21 and Sunday , December 27 .
Wolves currently sit 12th in the table after 16 games .
But The Mirror are reporting League bosses have no intention of suspending the season and say Government chiefs have also offered reassurance that there are no plans to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester City were forced to postpone Monday night ’ s clash at Everton following an outbreak of the pandemic in the club ’ s first team bubble .
City fear their season could be derailed with further positive cases among their players and staff .
City carried out tests on all of their squad , coaching staff and first-team support staff at their training ground yesterday , with the results due back today .
If , as expected , further positive cases are confirmed , City ’ s Premier League game at Chelsea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leading to more fixture pile-up for the Blues .
Sheffield United joined City in reporting an outbreak after a “ number of cases ” prior to their Premier League clash with Burnley which still went ahead , Not long after it was revealed that Southampton boss Ralph Hassenhuttl would be managing his club ’ s clash with West Ham last night from home after a member of his household tested positive .
And it is also understood there have been positives in the Fulham camp , although Tottenham are fully expecting Wednesday night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Premier League remain convinced that their protocols are working and despite the rise in cases , that their games are safe .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here .
And what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store There is also no room in the already busy Premier League fixture schedule to rearrange games .
The bigger concern is now for the EFL as mass postponements in the FA Cup third round could also cause chaos and there is not as much testing or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The record high number of Premier League tests was 18 from 1,479 players and staff tested which they insist is still a very small proportion and only two games – Newcastle against Aston Villa and City ’ s trip to Everton – have been postponed since the restart in June .

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Premier League bosses are determined not to shut down the season despite clubs holding secret meetings about taking a ‘ coronavirus break’.
West Bromwich Albion manager Sam Allardyce last night called for a circuit-breaking fortnight-long suspension of fixtures citing concerns over his own health and that of his players.
“Everyone’s safety is more important than anything else,” Allardyce said.
“When I listen to the news that the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus, we can only do the right thing, which is have a circuit break.
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“I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid.”
Indeed a number of clubs have discussed a two-week temporary halt next month after the Premier League announced a record number of positive tests, with 18 detected in the week between Monday December 21 and Sunday, December 27.
Wolves currently sit 12th in the table after 16 games.
But The Mirror are reporting League bosses have no intention of suspending the season and say Government chiefs have also offered reassurance that there are no plans to stop top flight football or elite sport.
Manchester City were forced to postpone Monday night’s clash at Everton following an outbreak of the pandemic in the club’s first team bubble.
City fear their season could be derailed with further positive cases among their players and staff.
City carried out tests on all of their squad, coaching staff and first-team support staff at their training ground yesterday, with the results due back today.
If, as expected, further positive cases are confirmed, City’s Premier League game at Chelsea on Sunday will be called off, leading to more fixture pile-up for the Blues.
Sheffield United joined City in reporting an outbreak after a “number of cases” prior to their Premier League clash with Burnley which still went ahead,
Not long after it was revealed that Southampton boss Ralph Hassenhuttl would be managing his club’s clash with West Ham last night from home after a member of his household tested positive.
And it is also understood there have been positives in the Fulham camp, although Tottenham are fully expecting Wednesday night’s game to go ahead.
The Premier League remain convinced that their protocols are working and despite the rise in cases, that their games are safe.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
There is also no room in the already busy Premier League fixture schedule to rearrange games.
The bigger concern is now for the EFL as mass postponements in the FA Cup third round could also cause chaos and there is not as much testing or protocols in place as the top flight.
The record high number of Premier League tests was 18 from 1,479 players and staff tested which they insist is still a very small proportion and only two games – Newcastle against Aston Villa and City’s trip to Everton – have been postponed since the restart in June.


birminghammail--2020-12-30--Covid-19 intensive care nurse left unable to see her children for 3 months

A Midlands nurse working on the frontline amid the Covid-19 pandemic was unable to see her children for three months .
Sam Taft acts as an Covid-19 intensive care nurse at The Royal Stoke Hospital , in Staffordshire , so moved her two young children in with her mum .
The 31-year-old has been nominated by her family for a Covid-19 Heroes award and told StokeonTrentLive : “ I ’ ve been an intensive care nurse for nearly five years and never thought I ’ d be dealing with something like Covid-19 .
“ At the beginning , we didn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and if it affected children or not .
`` Because my little girl , Kadie , has asthma , I was petrified and didn ’ t want to risk her catching it .
“ Though schools were staying open for key workers ’ children , their hours didn ’ t cover the hours I was working , like the night shifts.
” Sam ’ s partner , Adam Carrier , is a student nurse , and also sacrificed seeing his three children from a previous relationship to keep everyone safe .
The mum-of-two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mum 's meant that they could bond and have a bit of normality exploring the countryside .
“ It seemed the best option at the time and I never thought it would be for as long as it was .
I thought it would be a few weeks before things were under control , but Covid has been around for nearly a year now .
“ I would speak to them on the phone every day and on my days off I would drive up to sit in the garden .
But I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wouldn ’ t be able to nip to the loo and we weren ’ t able to touch .
“ I knew if my mum caught Covid that she wouldn ’ t survive it , so I couldn ’ t risk it .
I thought I would get it straight away from working with the patients , but thankfully , I haven ’ t. ” After three months , Sam decided to bring the children home again , as Covid-19 refused to go away .
She said : “ Coronavius wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them home .
Three months was such a long time and I needed them to have some normality again .
“ The house was so quiet and I would cry on the way home from work , and was keeping myself busy by working even more .
But it was so draining.
” Nominating her for the award , Sam ’ s family said : “ She ’ s like a wonder woman .
Sam is very determined and has built up a great job and does really well , goes to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are so proud of her .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Bethan Shufflebotham, James Rodger)

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A Midlands nurse working on the frontline amid the Covid-19 pandemic was unable to see her children for three months.
Sam Taft acts as an Covid-19 intensive care nurse at The Royal Stoke Hospital, in Staffordshire, so moved her two young children in with her mum.
The 31-year-old has been nominated by her family for a Covid-19 Heroes award and told StokeonTrentLive : “I’ve been an intensive care nurse for nearly five years and never thought I’d be dealing with something like Covid-19.
“At the beginning, we didn’t know much about the virus and if it affected children or not.
"Because my little girl, Kadie, has asthma, I was petrified and didn’t want to risk her catching it.
“Though schools were staying open for key workers’ children, their hours didn’t cover the hours I was working, like the night shifts.”
Sam’s partner, Adam Carrier, is a student nurse, and also sacrificed seeing his three children from a previous relationship to keep everyone safe.
The mum-of-two added: “Taking them to my mum's meant that they could bond and have a bit of normality exploring the countryside.
“It seemed the best option at the time and I never thought it would be for as long as it was. I thought it would be a few weeks before things were under control, but Covid has been around for nearly a year now.
“I would speak to them on the phone every day and on my days off I would drive up to sit in the garden. But I couldn't stay for long because I wouldn’t be able to nip to the loo and we weren’t able to touch.
“I knew if my mum caught Covid that she wouldn’t survive it, so I couldn’t risk it. I thought I would get it straight away from working with the patients, but thankfully, I haven’t.”
After three months, Sam decided to bring the children home again, as Covid-19 refused to go away.
She said: “Coronavius wasn’t affecting children and I ended up bringing them home. Three months was such a long time and I needed them to have some normality again.
“The house was so quiet and I would cry on the way home from work, and was keeping myself busy by working even more. But it was so draining.”
Nominating her for the award, Sam’s family said: “She’s like a wonder woman. Sam is very determined and has built up a great job and does really well, goes to the gym and looks after the kids. We are so proud of her.”