birminghammail--2020-09-30--'Hoax calls cost lives' - fury over fake 999 callout

Emergency services raced to the scene of crash in Walsall - only to discover it was a hoax .
Police , firefighters and medics all responded to a 'multi-vehicle collision ' in Lindon Road , Brownhills , on Tuesday , September 29 .
The person who made the 999 call said the smash involved three cars and a lorry .
They also claimed several people were injured - but it soon became clear there was no crash or casualties .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called by the police to a road traffic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 8.19pm last night .
`` Two ambulances were sent to the scene along with fire and police colleagues .
A furious crew from Aldridge Fire Station took to Twitter to make people aware of the seriousness of making fake calls to the emergency services .
The post said : `` Hoax calls cost lives !
Ourselves , along with two police cars and two ambulances were called to a road traffic collision in Walsall Wood with reports of a severely injured driver ... ... this was a hoax !
`` This call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to save people in need . ''
A West Midlands Police spokesman added : “ The caller suggested this was a very serious multi-vehicle collision with several badly injured patients .
`` Police cars and ambulances attended but on arrival it soon became apparent it was a hoax call .
“ It ’ s totally unacceptable .
Hoax callers like this clog up our phone lines and divert resources away from genuine emergencies where people may be in desperate need of help .
“ We will issue fines for people found making malicious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for wasting police time .
”

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Emergency services raced to the scene of crash in Walsall - only to discover it was a hoax.
Police, firefighters and medics all responded to a 'multi-vehicle collision' in Lindon Road, Brownhills, on Tuesday, September 29.
The person who made the 999 call said the smash involved three cars and a lorry.
They also claimed several people were injured - but it soon became clear there was no crash or casualties.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called by the police to a road traffic collision in Lindon Road, Brownhills, at 8.19pm last night.
"Two ambulances were sent to the scene along with fire and police colleagues.
"No incident was found."
A furious crew from Aldridge Fire Station took to Twitter to make people aware of the seriousness of making fake calls to the emergency services.
The post said: "Hoax calls cost lives! Ourselves, along with two police cars and two ambulances were called to a road traffic collision in Walsall Wood with reports of a severely injured driver......this was a hoax!
"This call tied up valuable resources that are their to save people in need."
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A West Midlands Police spokesman added: “The caller suggested this was a very serious multi-vehicle collision with several badly injured patients.
"Police cars and ambulances attended but on arrival it soon became apparent it was a hoax call.
“It’s totally unacceptable. Hoax callers like this clog up our phone lines and divert resources away from genuine emergencies where people may be in desperate need of help.
“We will issue fines for people found making malicious call and, where appropriate, prosecute for wasting police time.”


birminghammail--2020-09-30--Fears rule changes flood of "inappropriate development"

Controversial changes to the planning system could open the floodgates to `` all sorts of inappropriate development '' in Solihull , it has been claimed .
Cllr Max McLoughlin ( Green , Shirley South ) this week voiced fears that a shake-up could give far more power to big developers looking to drive through unpopular building projects .
His comments came as councillors considered a number of alterations the government is proposing to current planning rules .
Although these will only be a staging post for a far larger overhaul , which critics fear could see `` automatic planning permission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McLoughlin said some of the details were `` foggy '' but he feared what was on the horizon and what the local impact would be .
`` [ We could ] open the big one further down the line and it means we just get all kinds of inappropriate development flooding through when the major changes come through , '' he told a decision session .
`` That 's my concern and I hope there is someone who would be able to reassure me of that , but I do n't know if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 's likely to happen . ''
Gary Palmer , a council planning officer , said it was Solihull 's understanding that the more modest set of changes , which include some tweaks to rules on things like affordable housing , were something of a stop-gap .
`` These are changes which are going to be brought in to effect almost in the meantime , in advance of any changes that may be brought into effect as a result of the major reforms . ''
It is this second package of proposals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particular concern .
Ministers say that the changes , the most radical proposed for decades , will sweep aside a slow and often outdated way of doing things and make it easier to build much-needed homes .
But as the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) reported over the summer , critics claim it will leave councils powerless to object to certain schemes .
Later this month , Cllr Andy Mackiewicz , cabinet member for climate change , planning and housing , will be asked to sign-off a response to a separate @ @ @ @ @

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Controversial changes to the planning system could open the floodgates to "all sorts of inappropriate development" in Solihull, it has been claimed.
Cllr Max McLoughlin (Green, Shirley South) this week voiced fears that a shake-up could give far more power to big developers looking to drive through unpopular building projects.
His comments came as councillors considered a number of alterations the government is proposing to current planning rules.
Although these will only be a staging post for a far larger overhaul, which critics fear could see "automatic planning permission" granted in some cases.
Cllr McLoughlin said some of the details were "foggy" but he feared what was on the horizon and what the local impact would be.
"[We could] open the big one further down the line and it means we just get all kinds of inappropriate development flooding through when the major changes come through," he told a decision session.
"That's my concern and I hope there is someone who would be able to reassure me of that, but I don't know if anyone has sufficient detail as to whether that's likely to happen."
(Image: Green Party)
Gary Palmer, a council planning officer, said it was Solihull's understanding that the more modest set of changes, which include some tweaks to rules on things like affordable housing, were something of a stop-gap.
"These are changes which are going to be brought in to effect almost in the meantime, in advance of any changes that may be brought into effect as a result of the major reforms."
It is this second package of proposals, published in August, which has caused particular concern.
Ministers say that the changes, the most radical proposed for decades, will sweep aside a slow and often outdated way of doing things and make it easier to build much-needed homes.
But as the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) reported over the summer, critics claim it will leave councils powerless to object to certain schemes.
Later this month, Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet member for climate change, planning and housing, will be asked to sign-off a response to a separate consultation around these plans.


birminghammail--2020-09-30--Matt Hancock blasts 'shameful' students who held huge lockdown party in halls

Matt Hancock condemned the actions of some students at Coventry University who flouted lockdown restrictions by attending a large party .
Tory Marco Longhi ( Dudley North ) said : “ This virus clearly behaves according to how each and every one of us behaves and will he join me in condemning what we saw on the news this morning at Coventry University , where some students were behaving in a shameful way , up-close-and-personal partying ?
” Mr Hancock replied : “ The comments that ( Mr Longhi ) makes are absolutely right .
The need for all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exercise responsibility in a world where a virus can pass asymptomatically without anybody knowing that they have it is sadly a feature of life during this pandemic that I hope will be over sooner rather than later .
The party took place in a hall accommodating Coventry University students , with a clip showing the crowd dancing to a drill song in contravention of Covid-19 restrictions .
The revellers are shown holding up mobile phones , with several people jumping on tables as Digga D 's song 'Woi ' plays in the background @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ We are aware of an incident in a private accommodation block which was captured in a video that has been shared online .
“ We are deeply concerned by the scenes in the video and strongly condemn the blatant breaches of the rule of six and other guidelines as they risk the health of our students , colleagues and the communities in which we are located.
” Coventry Police are examining CCTV with a view to taking action if evidence comes to light that the party had been planned .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with management at the student accommodation block and they have agreed to close some communal areas and to increase security.
” NIDO , which runs Arundel House , has restricted all visitor to the building , closed communal areas and stepped up security , on top of its existing measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .

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Matt Hancock condemned the actions of some students at Coventry University who flouted lockdown restrictions by attending a large party.
Tory Marco Longhi (Dudley North) said: “This virus clearly behaves according to how each and every one of us behaves and will he join me in condemning what we saw on the news this morning at Coventry University, where some students were behaving in a shameful way, up-close-and-personal partying?”
Mr Hancock replied: “The comments that (Mr Longhi) makes are absolutely right. The need for all of us, all of us, to exercise responsibility in a world where a virus can pass asymptomatically without anybody knowing that they have it is sadly a feature of life during this pandemic that I hope will be over sooner rather than later.
“And so I agree with (Mr Longhi).”
The party took place in a hall accommodating Coventry University students, with a clip showing the crowd dancing to a drill song in contravention of Covid-19 restrictions.
The revellers are shown holding up mobile phones, with several people jumping on tables as Digga D's song 'Woi' plays in the background.
A spokesman for Coventry University said: “We are aware of an incident in a private accommodation block which was captured in a video that has been shared online.
“We are deeply concerned by the scenes in the video and strongly condemn the blatant breaches of the rule of six and other guidelines as they risk the health of our students, colleagues and the communities in which we are located.”
Coventry Police are examining CCTV with a view to taking action if evidence comes to light that the party had been planned.
A spokesman said: “We have liaised with management at the student accommodation block and they have agreed to close some communal areas and to increase security.”
NIDO, which runs Arundel House, has restricted all visitor to the building, closed communal areas and stepped up security, on top of its existing measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19.


birminghammail--2020-09-30--100 military officers take to streets of Birmingham to test families in Covid hotspots.

100 military officers take to streets of Birmingham to test families in Covid hotspots .
RAF officers are out and @ @ @ @ @ Sparkhill and other hotspot areas offering doorstep testing for coronavirus in a bid to curb @ @ @ @ @ military personnel have been drafted in to support Birmingham City Council 's efforts .

100 military officers take to streets of Birmingham to test families in Covid hotspots.
RAF officers are out and about in Hall Green, Sparkhill and other hotspot areas offering doorstep testing for coronavirus in a bid to curb rising cases. The 100 military personnel have been drafted in to support Birmingham City Council's efforts.
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birminghammail--2020-09-30--John Lewis shoppers left raging over bizarre name of new sofa range

John Lewis has left shoppers utterly bemused with the launch of its new sofa range .
The troubled department store - which has shut its Grand Central store in Birmingham - has unveiled a new range of settees .
But the sofas have left customers very bemused , with the name given to the range causing widespread hilarity among shoppers .
Some have even said the range should be `` illegal '' after they noticed what bosses at the department store giant had called the new items .
John Lewis is selling a range of sofas they say are perfect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But what has the retailer called the products ?
Well , the sofas are branded 'Squishmuffin ' and 'Cuddlemuffin ' .
`` I never thought the day would come when the name of a sofa would make me want to go on a killing spree , '' one social media user joked .
On its website , John Lewis proudly says of the Squishmuffin : `` Relaxing across Squishmuffin feels just as you 'd expect it to based on its name .
`` Generous curves , feather-filled cushions and a raked back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The tweet has racked up dozens of replies from baffled shoppers .
One wrote : `` I want a squishmuffin now but I want one with blueberries and cream ! ''
A second added : `` Is this because this was your pet name in a former romantic relationship of some kind ?
I can really see thst it might have been .
Suits you . ''
A third chipped in with : `` I don ’ t think I can ever eat a muffin again '' While a fourth said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a Squishmuffin . ''
And a fifth commented : `` The word ‘ lickle ’ I saw it last night - I can ’ t stand it !
I wanted to scream ''

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John Lewis has left shoppers utterly bemused with the launch of its new sofa range.
The troubled department store - which has shut its Grand Central store in Birmingham - has unveiled a new range of settees.
But the sofas have left customers very bemused, with the name given to the range causing widespread hilarity among shoppers.
Some have even said the range should be "illegal" after they noticed what bosses at the department store giant had called the new items.
John Lewis is selling a range of sofas they say are perfect for lounging, according to the company.
But what has the retailer called the products? Well, the sofas are branded 'Squishmuffin' and 'Cuddlemuffin'.
"I never thought the day would come when the name of a sofa would make me want to go on a killing spree," one social media user joked.
On its website, John Lewis proudly says of the Squishmuffin: "Relaxing across Squishmuffin feels just as you'd expect it to based on its name.
"Generous curves, feather-filled cushions and a raked back create the perfect spot for lounging."
The tweet has racked up dozens of replies from baffled shoppers.
One wrote: "I want a squishmuffin now but I want one with blueberries and cream!"
A second added: "Is this because this was your pet name in a former romantic relationship of some kind? I can really see thst it might have been. Suits you."
A third chipped in with: "I don’t think I can ever eat a muffin again"
Another posted vomit emojis.
While a fourth said: "I do not want to sit on a Squishmuffin."
And a fifth commented: "The word ‘lickle’ I saw it last night - I can’t stand it! I wanted to scream"


birminghammail--2020-09-30--Urgent call for action over airline refund rules for flight cancellations

Urgent reforms have been demanded so a watchdog can take action against airlines that break the law by failing to refund customers for cancelled flights , a former transport secretary has said .
Making the call at Westminster , Conservative peer Lord Young of Cookham said tens of thousands of passengers had complained to the Civil Aviation Authority ( CAA ) about “ inexcusable delays ” in getting compensation .
He pointed to concerns raised by consumer groups that the regulator did not have “ the right tools ” to take effective enforcement against firms flouting the rules .
Responding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parliament , transport minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton said : “ The Government recognises the challenge consumers and businesses are experiencing regarding refunds for cancelled holidays and flights .
“ We are clear that where a flight or holiday has been cancelled consumers have a legal right to a refund , which must be paid .
“ The Civil Aviation Authority launched a review into this issue and as a consequence most airlines are now paying refunds effectively.
” Lord Young said : “ She will be aware that tens of thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inexcusable delays in getting compensation for cancelled flights .
“ Will she bring in much-needed reforms , enabling the regulator to take swift and effective action to protect consumers when the law is broken ?
” Tory former cabinet minister Lord Pickles said two package holiday companies – Loveholidays and On the Beach – had quit the trade body Abta to avoid paying full refunds on cancellations due to Covid-19 .
He added : “ Will the minister look carefully at the regulations and the alleged loophole that suggests that if the Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company itself keeps a flight open and the accommodation open , that a full refund is not payable ?
” Lady Vere encouraged people to consider the implications of cancellation when making their travel plans , including if a firm is a member of Abta and if it has Atol protection .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (PA reporters, Brett Gibbons)

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Urgent reforms have been demanded so a watchdog can take action against airlines that break the law by failing to refund customers for cancelled flights, a former transport secretary has said.
Making the call at Westminster, Conservative peer Lord Young of Cookham said tens of thousands of passengers had complained to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) about “inexcusable delays” in getting compensation.
He pointed to concerns raised by consumer groups that the regulator did not have “the right tools” to take effective enforcement against firms flouting the rules.
Responding to his question on the issue in Parliament, transport minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton said: “The Government recognises the challenge consumers and businesses are experiencing regarding refunds for cancelled holidays and flights.
“We are clear that where a flight or holiday has been cancelled consumers have a legal right to a refund, which must be paid.
“The Civil Aviation Authority launched a review into this issue and as a consequence most airlines are now paying refunds effectively.”
Lord Young said: “She will be aware that tens of thousands of passengers have complained to the CAA about inexcusable delays in getting compensation for cancelled flights.
“Will she bring in much-needed reforms, enabling the regulator to take swift and effective action to protect consumers when the law is broken?”
Tory former cabinet minister Lord Pickles said two package holiday companies – Loveholidays and On the Beach – had quit the trade body Abta to avoid paying full refunds on cancellations due to Covid-19.
He added: “Will the minister look carefully at the regulations and the alleged loophole that suggests that if the Foreign Office advises against travel and yet the company itself keeps a flight open and the accommodation open, that a full refund is not payable?”
Lady Vere encouraged people to consider the implications of cancellation when making their travel plans, including if a firm is a member of Abta and if it has Atol protection.


birminghammail--2020-09-30--Over 9,000 children forced to stay home in Sandwell as Covid-19 cases rise

The recent sharp rise in Sandwell coronavirus infections has drastically impacted schooling for thousands of pupils .
Since schools reopened across the borough , 58 schools have had to close or partially close due to positive Covid-19 cases within their school community , the council has revealed .
Around 37 % of schools were affected by new coronavirus cases with a whopping 9,256 pupils asked to stay home and self-isolate since the start of September .
Localised lockdown restrictions were implemented in Sandwell on September 15 , following an alarming increase in new cases .
Residents are now banned from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gardens in a bid to prevent the spread of the fatal bug .
A Sandwell Council spokesperson said : `` We find our school staff have an excellent grasp of Covid-19 guidance .
They get in touch with us promptly when they find a positive case .
This is why we have seen a lot of single cases but no large outbreaks .
So far we have been able to stop things escalating .
`` A large outbreak in a school not only has the potential to affect hundreds of children , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the local community .
We can ’ t take chances .
`` Sandwell Council is working closely with all schools and academies to keep everyone safe during the pandemic and to keep children and young people in education .
`` Parents and carers can be assured that schools have infection control measures in place and will contact them should they need to take any action . ''
Today ( September 30 ) , There have been nine new deaths across the Midlands - including three in the Black Country and another in Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 52 , new Covid-19-related deaths were recorded in Black Country and Birmingham hospitals .
The deaths took place in Sandwell and West Bromwich , Dudley and Wolverhampton , as well as Birmingham .
A further 43 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died in hospital in England , bringing the total number of confirmed deaths reported in hospitals to 30,005 , NHS England said on Wednesday .
Patients were aged between 43 and 98 years old and all except one ( aged 72 ) had known underlying health conditions .
The deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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The recent sharp rise in Sandwell coronavirus infections has drastically impacted schooling for thousands of pupils.
Since schools reopened across the borough, 58 schools have had to close or partially close due to positive Covid-19 cases within their school community, the council has revealed.
Around 37% of schools were affected by new coronavirus cases with a whopping 9,256 pupils asked to stay home and self-isolate since the start of September.
Localised lockdown restrictions were implemented in Sandwell on September 15, following an alarming increase in new cases.
Residents are now banned from visiting each other’s home and gardens in a bid to prevent the spread of the fatal bug.
A Sandwell Council spokesperson said: "We find our school staff have an excellent grasp of Covid-19 guidance. They get in touch with us promptly when they find a positive case. This is why we have seen a lot of single cases but no large outbreaks. So far we have been able to stop things escalating.
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"A large outbreak in a school not only has the potential to affect hundreds of children, but also the health of their families and the local community. We can’t take chances.
"Sandwell Council is working closely with all schools and academies to keep everyone safe during the pandemic and to keep children and young people in education.
"Parents and carers can be assured that schools have infection control measures in place and will contact them should they need to take any action."
Today (September 30), There have been nine new deaths across the Midlands - including three in the Black Country and another in Birmingham.
As the UK toll rose by 52, new Covid-19-related deaths were recorded in Black Country and Birmingham hospitals.
The deaths took place in Sandwell and West Bromwich, Dudley and Wolverhampton, as well as Birmingham.
A further 43 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died in hospital in England, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths reported in hospitals to 30,005, NHS England said on Wednesday.
Patients were aged between 43 and 98 years old and all except one (aged 72) had known underlying health conditions.
The deaths were between August 22 and September 29.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Dean Smith gives dismal Villa stars tongue-lashing after Stoke loss

Dean Smith admits he read Aston Villa 's uninspiring second-string the riot act at half-time after a dismal showing in their 1-0 defeat to Stoke City .
Stoke 's Sam Vokes got the only goal of the game after 26 minutes which ended Villa 's hopes of reaching the Carabao Cup quarter-finals .
`` It was an awful performance in the first-half , '' Smith explained , `` though we still had two taps in to score .
`` But the display was way , way below standards .
The same team was rightly applauded last week after their performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see the same but we were too lacklustre and made too many mistakes on the ball .
It 's a massive missed opportunity .
I said that to the players .
`` I do n't very often get stuck into them at half-time but I did today because we were that poor in the first half .
`` Saying that , we had two tap-ins we should have scored and we should have had a penalty in the second half as well.It was n't even a subtle foul in the penalty box @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meanwhile , provided a transfer update regarding possible outgoings after revealing previously Villa can not afford to `` stockpile '' players .
Orjan Nyland was n't named in the 18-man squad tonight , while Spaniard Jota was restricted to just seven minutes from off the bench .
Smith said : `` We 've made 11 changes tonight and , of the 11 players out there , Bertrand 's the only one who has n't been around me for a while so I know a lot about them and they know a lot about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I want to see and I certainly did n't get a lot of that tonight . ''
The head coach was asked about keeping Jacob Ramsey around too , and added : `` Yeah , I 'll keep JJ around me at the moment .
He had a decent performance tonight , one of the only decent performances out there tonight .
Unfortunately he got the yellow card and I did n't want to risk him . ''

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Dean Smith admits he read Aston Villa's uninspiring second-string the riot act at half-time after a dismal showing in their 1-0 defeat to Stoke City.
Stoke's Sam Vokes got the only goal of the game after 26 minutes which ended Villa's hopes of reaching the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
"It was an awful performance in the first-half," Smith explained, "though we still had two taps in to score.
"But the display was way, way below standards. The same team was rightly applauded last week after their performance at Bristol City.
"I expected to see the same but we were too lacklustre and made too many mistakes on the ball. It's a massive missed opportunity. I said that to the players.
"I don't very often get stuck into them at half-time but I did today because we were that poor in the first half.
"Saying that, we had two tap-ins we should have scored and we should have had a penalty in the second half as well.It wasn't even a subtle foul in the penalty box on Ollie Watkins."
Smith, meanwhile, provided a transfer update regarding possible outgoings after revealing previously Villa cannot afford to "stockpile" players.
Orjan Nyland wasn't named in the 18-man squad tonight, while Spaniard Jota was restricted to just seven minutes from off the bench.
Smith said: "We've made 11 changes tonight and, of the 11 players out there, Bertrand's the only one who hasn't been around me for a while so I know a lot about them and they know a lot about me and what I expect and what I want to see and I certainly didn't get a lot of that tonight."
The head coach was asked about keeping Jacob Ramsey around too, and added: "Yeah, I'll keep JJ around me at the moment. He had a decent performance tonight, one of the only decent performances out there tonight. Unfortunately he got the yellow card and I didn't want to risk him."


birminghammail--2020-10-01--'Reassess' - Aston Villa sent transfer message after Stoke defeat

Aston Villa are out of the Carabao Cup at the fourth round after falling 1-0 to Stoke City at Villa Park .
Villa , who had won their previous four matches in league and cup up to this point in the season , failed to reach the quarter finals after Sam Vokes ’ only goal in the first half was enough to separate the two sides .
This was an opportunity for a number of Dean Smith ’ s fringe players to really stake a claim ahead of the visit of Liverpool in the Premier League this weekend - but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passed up .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Villa newsletter It means that , until the FA Cup kicks off in January , it ’ s all systems go as far as the Premier League are concerned for Villa .
Supporters , who watched on from home with B6 remaining empty , were understandably disappointed to not progress in what appeared on paper to be a kind tie , against opponents who although were awkward are ultimately in the division below the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached the final of last term , this was a below par display .
Villa fans had their say - and many of them are hoping that more transfer business is to be done .
Aston Villa fans react to crashing out of the Carabao Cup Misha Miguel : Scary knowing how many of these players are close to the first team .
Dean might need to reassess his comment that we have depth in the squad .
That was atrocious .
Spence : Worries me that we have such a superb 1st @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : When we were promoted I absolutely loved El Ghazi .
He was always a threat in the air or from distance .
What a shame .
Sean Alejandro : Ultimately Smith to blame tonight .
Yes great start in league but chance for a 1/4 final and 11 changes ?
Awab Nawari : Disappointing display but now a lot of these players have basically cut there playing time as when else will they play if not in the cup ?
Akavfc : Ah well we can concentrate on the league now too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is something we already knew time to move some of them on and may be get a striker in before transfer deadline Rich : Disappointed that the players on show tonight didn ’ t give DS more food for thought .
Safe to say that injuries will have a massive impact on our season .
Matt : Not the world ’ s worst performance , to be honest .
Stoke set up perfectly and took their chance when it came .
We didn ’ t take either of ours when they came , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creativity to repeatedly create chances against a well drilled back five Paul Hughes : Not overly fussed with going out , but worried an injury could leave us with Davis or Hause as starters in key league games .
This showed our first 11 is a class above the back up options Jonathan Ridgway : I am gutted to see us go out of the cup , but when you make 11 changes to the side that plays in the league it shouldn ’ t come as too much of a surprise .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ injury and that we don ’ t have any CB cover for Mings/Konsa .
I think we need someone in .

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Aston Villa are out of the Carabao Cup at the fourth round after falling 1-0 to Stoke City at Villa Park.
Villa, who had won their previous four matches in league and cup up to this point in the season, failed to reach the quarter finals after Sam Vokes’ only goal in the first half was enough to separate the two sides.
This was an opportunity for a number of Dean Smith’s fringe players to really stake a claim ahead of the visit of Liverpool in the Premier League this weekend - but it was an opportunity many of them passed up.
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It means that, until the FA Cup kicks off in January, it’s all systems go as far as the Premier League are concerned for Villa.
Supporters, who watched on from home with B6 remaining empty, were understandably disappointed to not progress in what appeared on paper to be a kind tie, against opponents who although were awkward are ultimately in the division below the Lions.
In a competition that Villa reached the final of last term, this was a below par display. Villa fans had their say - and many of them are hoping that more transfer business is to be done.
Aston Villa fans react to crashing out of the Carabao Cup
Misha Miguel: Scary knowing how many of these players are close to the first team. Dean might need to reassess his comment that we have depth in the squad. That was atrocious.
Spence : Worries me that we have such a superb 1st 11 and zero squad depth.
Victor : When we were promoted I absolutely loved El Ghazi. He was always a threat in the air or from distance. What a shame.
Sean Alejandro: Ultimately Smith to blame tonight. Yes great start in league but chance for a 1/4 final and 11 changes?
Awab Nawari: Disappointing display but now a lot of these players have basically cut there playing time as when else will they play if not in the cup?
Akavfc : Ah well we can concentrate on the league now too many mediocre players in our squad which is something we already knew time to move some of them on and may be get a striker in before transfer deadline
Rich : Disappointed that the players on show tonight didn’t give DS more food for thought. Safe to say that injuries will have a massive impact on our season.
Matt : Not the world’s worst performance, to be honest. Stoke set up perfectly and took their chance when it came. We didn’t take either of ours when they came, and we didn’t have the creativity to repeatedly create chances against a well drilled back five
Paul Hughes: Not overly fussed with going out, but worried an injury could leave us with Davis or Hause as starters in key league games. This showed our first 11 is a class above the back up options
Jonathan Ridgway : I am gutted to see us go out of the cup, but when you make 11 changes to the side that plays in the league it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. My actual concern is Hause’s injury and that we don’t have any CB cover for Mings/Konsa. I think we need someone in.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Aston Villa player ratings as second string crash out against Stoke

Aston Villa 's second string were simply second-best against a shrewd Stoke City side at Villa Park .
Dean Smith 's winning start to the 2020/21 season has now ended after what was a laboured showing with Villa crashing out of the Carabao Cup at the last-16 stage .
Match-winner Sam Vokes got the only goal after 26 minutes , glancing home Jordan Thompson 's corner at the front post .
Dutch winger Anwar El Ghazi and Keinan Davis came closest for Villa but , in truth , they never looked like scoring .
Smith , meanwhile , brought on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but nothing was forthcoming despite piling on the pressure in injury time .
Here 's how we rated Villa 's players after their 1-0 defeat to Stoke : Pulled off an instinctive save 24 minutes in , tipping Nick Powell 's crisp , first-time effort over the bar .
Had no chance with Vokes ' bullet header at the front stick .
Tidy with his feet when needed to be .
Pushed up for corners in stoppage time , and got his head on one .
Stoke had just three shots on target @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to contend with while Nick Powell kept drifting in and out from Stoke 's left .
Sniffed out danger well in the first half .
The Frenchman is limited when it comes to technical ability and playing out .
You can see why Smith went out to buy Cash now knowing the £14 million man 's ability in possession .
Guilbert always strong in the tackle .
5 At centre-back once again with Smith not ready to pick fit-again Bjorn Engels .
The Egyptian had a tough opening half up against the brute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tonight .
Did n't have to do too much in the second half , in truth , with Stoke happy to protect their one goal advantage .
5.5 Far , far too sloppy inside the opening 45 .
Must have passed to Stoke 's players at least half a dozen times .
Lackadaisical once more .
Lost Vokes for the goal and he lost the Welshman again just after the break .
A poor night overall for the big man who hobbled off before the hour with a suspected twisted knee .
4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half and popped balls into the likes of El Ghazi and Ramsey ahead and inside of him .
Read the game well and was there to put out dangerous through-balls .
Picked the right passes .
Did OK. 6 In for his first Villa Park start after impressive displays in previous rounds .
Played more as a No.10 for the first half-hour and was urged to get right up next to Davis .
Was flamboyant on the ball and oozed confidence .
Gave the odd ball away , though , but also had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the box twice to shoot instead of pass .
Enjoyed himself and was n't fazed against the likes of John Obi Mikel in midfield .
Replaced by Watkins with 20 left .
6 Villa 's anchorman in midfield .
The pivot every time Steer had the ball while it was Smith who told the keeper to play it into Nakamba 's feet to start attacks .
Ticked by in the heart of midfield .
Not too convincing , mind .
6 A bad night for Lansbury who failed to hit the heights of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The midfielder looked frustrated .
He did , though , put in a stupendous over-the-top ball to El Ghazi but the Dutchman could n't get on the end of it .
Gave the ball away far too often in midfield .
Lacklustre .
4 Worked well with El Ghazi to carve out Villa 's best chance of the first half , sliding in Villa 's No.21 before the Dutch winger crossed to Davis .
Played out on the right-wing but did n't get at Tymon enough .
Showed a bit of class @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Overall , a tad too casual on his big Villa Park debut .
5 Lead the line and spurned a fantastic chance on 40 minutes , sliding his effort wide from inside the six-yard box .
Found Stoke 's big centre-halves a tall order at times .
General hold-up play was loose , too , which is unlike Davis .
Did n't look like scoring at all .
5 Missed a gilt-edged chance at the back stick just before the hour .
Played out on the left-hand side .
Played a dangerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Floated about , put a couple of shots into the stands and , overall , endured a uninspiring evening once again .
Flashed his best effort straight at Davies in the Stoke goal after a mazy run .
5.5 Replaced Hause on 57 minutes .
Did n't have anything to do .
5.5 Came on for Ramsey with 20 left .
Seconds after coming on he made Davies work in the Stoke goal , fizzing one from range .
Had strong claims for a penalty waved away with six to go .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the right and was given 13 minutes .
Did nothing of note other than whip in a couple of deliveries which Stoke cleared .
5.5

Aston Villa's second string were simply second-best against a shrewd Stoke City side at Villa Park.
Dean Smith's winning start to the 2020/21 season has now ended after what was a laboured showing with Villa crashing out of the Carabao Cup at the last-16 stage.
Match-winner Sam Vokes got the only goal after 26 minutes, glancing home Jordan Thompson's corner at the front post.
Dutch winger Anwar El Ghazi and Keinan Davis came closest for Villa but, in truth, they never looked like scoring. Smith, meanwhile, brought on Ollie Watkins with 20 minutes to go but nothing was forthcoming despite piling on the pressure in injury time.
Here's how we rated Villa's players after their 1-0 defeat to Stoke:
Starting formation: 4-3-3
Jed Steer
Pulled off an instinctive save 24 minutes in, tipping Nick Powell's crisp, first-time effort over the bar. Had no chance with Vokes' bullet header at the front stick. Tidy with his feet when needed to be. Pushed up for corners in stoppage time, and got his head on one. Stoke had just three shots on target. 6
Frederic Guilbert
Had the ever-busy Josh Tymon to contend with while Nick Powell kept drifting in and out from Stoke's left. Sniffed out danger well in the first half. The Frenchman is limited when it comes to technical ability and playing out. You can see why Smith went out to buy Cash now knowing the £14 million man's ability in possession. Guilbert always strong in the tackle. 5
Ahmed Elmohamady
At centre-back once again with Smith not ready to pick fit-again Bjorn Engels. The Egyptian had a tough opening half up against the brute that is Sam Vokes. Captain again tonight. Didn't have to do too much in the second half, in truth, with Stoke happy to protect their one goal advantage. 5.5
Kortney Hause
Far, far too sloppy inside the opening 45. Must have passed to Stoke's players at least half a dozen times. Lackadaisical once more. Lost Vokes for the goal and he lost the Welshman again just after the break. A poor night overall for the big man who hobbled off before the hour with a suspected twisted knee. 4
Neil Taylor
The plucky Welshman had a decent opening half and popped balls into the likes of El Ghazi and Ramsey ahead and inside of him. Read the game well and was there to put out dangerous through-balls. Picked the right passes. Did OK. 6
Jacob Ramsey
In for his first Villa Park start after impressive displays in previous rounds. Played more as a No.10 for the first half-hour and was urged to get right up next to Davis. Was flamboyant on the ball and oozed confidence. Gave the odd ball away, though, but also had a selfish streak when he dribbled inside the box twice to shoot instead of pass. Enjoyed himself and wasn't fazed against the likes of John Obi Mikel in midfield. Replaced by Watkins with 20 left. 6
Marvelous Nakamba
Villa's anchorman in midfield. The pivot every time Steer had the ball while it was Smith who told the keeper to play it into Nakamba's feet to start attacks. Ticked by in the heart of midfield. Not too convincing, mind. 6
Henri Lansbury
A bad night for Lansbury who failed to hit the heights of a quality showing at Bristol last week. The midfielder looked frustrated. He did, though, put in a stupendous over-the-top ball to El Ghazi but the Dutchman couldn't get on the end of it. Gave the ball away far too often in midfield. Lacklustre. 4
Bertrand Traore
Worked well with El Ghazi to carve out Villa's best chance of the first half, sliding in Villa's No.21 before the Dutch winger crossed to Davis. Played out on the right-wing but didn't get at Tymon enough. Showed a bit of class with a reverse pass to El Ghazi. Overall, a tad too casual on his big Villa Park debut. 5
Keinan Davis
Lead the line and spurned a fantastic chance on 40 minutes, sliding his effort wide from inside the six-yard box. Found Stoke's big centre-halves a tall order at times. General hold-up play was loose, too, which is unlike Davis. Didn't look like scoring at all. 5
Anwar El Ghazi
Missed a gilt-edged chance at the back stick just before the hour. Played out on the left-hand side. Played a dangerous ball into Davis in the first half. Floated about, put a couple of shots into the stands and, overall, endured a uninspiring evening once again. Flashed his best effort straight at Davies in the Stoke goal after a mazy run. 5.5
Ezri Konsa
Replaced Hause on 57 minutes. Didn't have anything to do. 5.5
Ollie Watkins
Came on for Ramsey with 20 left. Seconds after coming on he made Davies work in the Stoke goal, fizzing one from range. Had strong claims for a penalty waved away with six to go. 5.5
Jota
Took up Bertrand Traore's position on the right and was given 13 minutes. Did nothing of note other than whip in a couple of deliveries which Stoke cleared. 5.5
Subs not used: Kalinic, Cash, Hourihane, Douglas Luiz
Stoke City: Davies, Brown, Tymon, Collins, Souttar, Martins Indi, Thompson, Mikel, Powell (Oakley-Boothe, 75), Campbell (Smith, 70), Vokes (Fletcher, 70). Subs: Noukeu, Batth, Ince, Gregory.
The ref: Robert Jones
Next up: Liverpool, Premier League, Villa Park, Sunday, October 4, 2020, kick-off 7.15pm.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Villa crash out of the Carabao Cup at the hands of Stoke City

Aston Villa crashed out of the last-16 of the Carabao Cup after a 1-0 defeat by experienced Championship side Stoke City .
Potters boss Michael O ’ Neill made eight changes to his line-up , which included bringing in match-winner Sam Vokes .
The Welshman climbed highest and beat Kortney Hause at the front post to glance home the 26th-minute opener .
As for Dean Smith , he named the exact same starting line-up to the one that handsomely beat Bristol City 3-0 in the round previous .
The difference between last week ’ s swashbuckling performance at Ashton Gate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Had there been supporters inside Villa Park they simply wouldn ’ t have stood for Villa ’ s poor performance as it was simply far too casual .
Stoke , to their credit , frustrated Villa throughout and their hard work was rewarded after Vokes headed home Jordan Thompson ’ s corner .
The warning signs were already there for Villa , though , as Jed Steer saved well from Nick Powell ’ s first-time effort prior to Vokes ’ opener .
After going a goal down , Villa carved out their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lansbury who headed wide when well-placed , spurning a great deep ball in by frozen-out full-back Frederic Guilbert .
Following that , Villa ’ s best chance of the half came via Keinan Davis .
The 22-year-old was off balance and couldn ’ t steer home Anwar El Ghazi ’ s teasing ball at the back stick after the Dutchman combined with debutant Bertrand Traore .
No changes were forthcoming after the break and it was the away side who came out of the traps the quicker , Vokes again causing trouble peeling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the powerful striker ’ s header was off target following a delivery from advancing wing-back Josh Tymon .
O ’ Neill ’ s experienced Potters dug in after that and boxed clever knowing Villa had to get the goal .
Dutchman El Ghazi tried to muster up a bit of magic and hit back-to-back efforts at Stoke ’ s goal with one testing Adam Davies down low .
With 20 left , Smith brought on £28 million man Ollie Watkins as he looked for his third goal in as many Carabao Cup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t materialise , though , as Villa ’ s second string were punished for such a laboured showing from start to finish .
Villa ’ s fringe cast - the likes of Lansbury , El Ghazi and Guilbert - now won ’ t see any action until an injury crisis occurs at Villa from now until the FA Cup starts in 2021 , while moves away from B6 remain a possibility ahead of transfer deadline day .
Overall , though , the Villa boss has bigger fish to fry with the ultimate test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There , we ’ ll truly see what Premier League Villa are all about as they welcome back their star performers which now includes the exciting loan capture of Ross Barkley .
As for the defeat to Stoke - seven months since their cup final loss to man City - the magic of cup competitions simply isn ’ t there any more knowing supporters are locked out for the foreseeable future .
It felt like a reserve game tonight and , in truth , it was one with Villa ’ s second string @ @ @ @ @

Aston Villa crashed out of the last-16 of the Carabao Cup after a 1-0 defeat by experienced Championship side Stoke City.
Potters boss Michael O’Neill made eight changes to his line-up, which included bringing in match-winner Sam Vokes. The Welshman climbed highest and beat Kortney Hause at the front post to glance home the 26th-minute opener.
As for Dean Smith, he named the exact same starting line-up to the one that handsomely beat Bristol City 3-0 in the round previous.
The difference between last week’s swashbuckling performance at Ashton Gate to this one was chalk and cheese. Had there been supporters inside Villa Park they simply wouldn’t have stood for Villa’s poor performance as it was simply far too casual.
Stoke, to their credit, frustrated Villa throughout and their hard work was rewarded after Vokes headed home Jordan Thompson’s corner. The warning signs were already there for Villa, though, as Jed Steer saved well from Nick Powell’s first-time effort prior to Vokes’ opener.
After going a goal down, Villa carved out their first real opportunity and it was Henri Lansbury who headed wide when well-placed, spurning a great deep ball in by frozen-out full-back Frederic Guilbert. Following that, Villa’s best chance of the half came via Keinan Davis. The 22-year-old was off balance and couldn’t steer home Anwar El Ghazi’s teasing ball at the back stick after the Dutchman combined with debutant Bertrand Traore.
No changes were forthcoming after the break and it was the away side who came out of the traps the quicker, Vokes again causing trouble peeling off a lackadaisical Hause but, thankfully, the powerful striker’s header was off target following a delivery from advancing wing-back Josh Tymon.
O’Neill’s experienced Potters dug in after that and boxed clever knowing Villa had to get the goal. Dutchman El Ghazi tried to muster up a bit of magic and hit back-to-back efforts at Stoke’s goal with one testing Adam Davies down low. With 20 left, Smith brought on £28 million man Ollie Watkins as he looked for his third goal in as many Carabao Cup games.
The elusive equaliser didn’t materialise, though, as Villa’s second string were punished for such a laboured showing from start to finish. Villa’s fringe cast - the likes of Lansbury, El Ghazi and Guilbert - now won’t see any action until an injury crisis occurs at Villa from now until the FA Cup starts in 2021, while moves away from B6 remain a possibility ahead of transfer deadline day.
Overall, though, the Villa boss has bigger fish to fry with the ultimate test coming on Sunday against champions Liverpool. There, we’ll truly see what Premier League Villa are all about as they welcome back their star performers which now includes the exciting loan capture of Ross Barkley.
As for the defeat to Stoke - seven months since their cup final loss to man City - the magic of cup competitions simply isn’t there any more knowing supporters are locked out for the foreseeable future. It felt like a reserve game tonight and, in truth, it was one with Villa’s second string simply not good enough.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Aston Villa suffer fresh injury concern in Stoke City cup tie

Central defender Kortney Hause is a fresh injury concern for Aston Villa boss Dean Smith after he hobbled off in their Carabao Cup tie with Stoke City at Villa Park .
Hause has been a consistent pick in the cup for Smith this season - he featured in the wins over Burton and Bristol City - but he has been considered cover for first choice pair Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings in the Premier League .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Villa newsletter Handed another opportunity to impress against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he was involved in a collision just after half time and , after receiving treatment , he was replaced by Konsa before being assessed in the dressing room .
It ’ s suspected that Hause suffered a twisted knee , something that will be confirmed by Smith post-match .
At the time of writing , Villa are trailing 1-0 to Stoke thanks to a Sam Vokes goal in the first half .
The bigger picture for Smith and Villa is that if Hause ’ s injury proves to be serious , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sudden looking quite light .
After moving on James Chester this past summer , Bjorn Engels is the only other centre half option available to Smith - but he too , for the time being , is also out injured .
Hause ’ s withdrawal did spark quite a debate on social media among Villa fans , wondering if Villa may move to add another defender before the transfer window shuts .

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Central defender Kortney Hause is a fresh injury concern for Aston Villa boss Dean Smith after he hobbled off in their Carabao Cup tie with Stoke City at Villa Park.
Hause has been a consistent pick in the cup for Smith this season - he featured in the wins over Burton and Bristol City - but he has been considered cover for first choice pair Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings in the Premier League.
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Handed another opportunity to impress against the Potters at B6 on Thursday evening, he was involved in a collision just after half time and, after receiving treatment, he was replaced by Konsa before being assessed in the dressing room.
It’s suspected that Hause suffered a twisted knee, something that will be confirmed by Smith post-match.
At the time of writing, Villa are trailing 1-0 to Stoke thanks to a Sam Vokes goal in the first half.
The bigger picture for Smith and Villa is that if Hause’s injury proves to be serious, then the defensive department is all of a sudden looking quite light.
After moving on James Chester this past summer, Bjorn Engels is the only other centre half option available to Smith - but he too, for the time being, is also out injured.
Hause’s withdrawal did spark quite a debate on social media among Villa fans, wondering if Villa may move to add another defender before the transfer window shuts.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Watch as shopper 'verbally abuses' staff after refusing to wear a mask

This is the moment police were forced to intervene when a shopper 'verbally abused ' staff after refusing to wear a mask .
The man is said to have turned on staff at an Oldbury DIY store after attempting to shop without wearing a face covering .
In police bodycam footage , the customer can be heard saying : `` It 's a lie - it 's not the law to wear a mask .
I ai n't got one . ''
He goes on to say : `` How are you meant to know to wear a mask when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' An officer replied : `` I 'm not having it that you do n't know .
You know . ''
The footage was shared by West Midlands Police as they continue their efforts to enforce Covid-19 regulations across Birmingham and the Black Country .
Watch the video above .
Also in the clip , officers can be seen ordering staff at a pizza shop to shut their doors , after they continued to serve diners after 10pm .
And cops can also be heard paying a visit to a chicken shop , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at gone midnight .
With four regions in the West Midlands - Birmingham , Solihull , Sandwell and Wolverhampton - already under enhanced measures , police are focusing on those areas with the highest infection rate and lowest compliance .
Officers will be patrolling transport hubs , shops , hospitality venues and open spaces to remind people of the rules and issue fines to those breaching them .
Wolverhampton Commander , Chief Superintendent Andy Beard said : “ This is a critical period in the fight against Coronavirus and no-one wants the restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to , particularly in the areas with increased measures .
“ But it is necessary to control the spread and we will be taking a tougher stance on those breaching the restrictions .
These regulations are law and we will be issuing fines to those found flouting them .
“ We understand that some of the regulations are confusing and we will be explaining where we find breaches , but if people continually flout these measures , we will not hesitate to take action .
“ We are working with other organisations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as unlicensed music events or wedding and funeral gatherings , and more recently we have seen breaches at student accommodation and premises following the reopening of universities and colleges .
“ We understand that this is a frustrating time for everyone but we must all follow the rules to help save lives.
” Closure notices have been issued to venues including Blossoms bar and nightclub in Wolverhampton , where capacity levels were continually exceeded and agreed social distancing measures blatantly disregarded .
PBs in Hockley was the first venue to have its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have no social distancing measures , no track and trace , and frequently played loud music .
And just this week the Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel in Solihull has been banned from holding events until January next year after a funeral held last Friday was attended by around 200 people .

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This is the moment police were forced to intervene when a shopper 'verbally abused' staff after refusing to wear a mask.
The man is said to have turned on staff at an Oldbury DIY store after attempting to shop without wearing a face covering.
In police bodycam footage, the customer can be heard saying: "It's a lie - it's not the law to wear a mask. I ain't got one."
He goes on to say: "How are you meant to know to wear a mask when you don't watch the news?"
An officer replied: "I'm not having it that you don't know. You know."
The footage was shared by West Midlands Police as they continue their efforts to enforce Covid-19 regulations across Birmingham and the Black Country. Watch the video above.
Also in the clip, officers can be seen ordering staff at a pizza shop to shut their doors, after they continued to serve diners after 10pm.
(Image: West Midlands Police)
And cops can also be heard paying a visit to a chicken shop, where walk-in customers were still placing orders at gone midnight.
With four regions in the West Midlands - Birmingham, Solihull, Sandwell and Wolverhampton - already under enhanced measures, police are focusing on those areas with the highest infection rate and lowest compliance.
Officers will be patrolling transport hubs, shops, hospitality venues and open spaces to remind people of the rules and issue fines to those breaching them.
Wolverhampton Commander, Chief Superintendent Andy Beard said: “This is a critical period in the fight against Coronavirus and no-one wants the restrictions to carry on for longer than they have to, particularly in the areas with increased measures.
“But it is necessary to control the spread and we will be taking a tougher stance on those breaching the restrictions. These regulations are law and we will be issuing fines to those found flouting them.
“We understand that some of the regulations are confusing and we will be explaining where we find breaches, but if people continually flout these measures, we will not hesitate to take action.
“We are working with other organisations to look at larger scale breaches, such as unlicensed music events or wedding and funeral gatherings, and more recently we have seen breaches at student accommodation and premises following the reopening of universities and colleges.
“We understand that this is a frustrating time for everyone but we must all follow the rules to help save lives.”
Closure notices have been issued to venues including Blossoms bar and nightclub in Wolverhampton, where capacity levels were continually exceeded and agreed social distancing measures blatantly disregarded.
PBs in Hockley was the first venue to have its licence revoked after the club was found to have no social distancing measures, no track and trace, and frequently played loud music.
And just this week the Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel in Solihull has been banned from holding events until January next year after a funeral held last Friday was attended by around 200 people.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Birmingham City's predicted XI against Stoke City

Three games in , one goal conceded and zero from open play , it ’ s a different Birmingham City in virtually every way possible which makes a relatively quick return to Stoke this weekend .
For those of us who haven ’ t erased the last visit from our memories in July , caretaker management , experimental system and the heaviest 2-0 hammering imaginable , be assured nearly everything has changed .
Aitor Karanka ’ s Blues stopped being a soft defensive touch ages ago , getting on for three weeks now in fact .
With a settled back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rigid shape in midfield Stoke will find Sunday ’ s visitors a far tougher nut to crack .
But just as Michael O ’ Neill ’ s men must figure out a way through the thick Blue line , so too Karanka 's must find how to produce their first open play goal of the campaign .
Sign up to our newsletter for Birmingham City transfer news before deadline day Why should you sign up ?
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You can keep up to date with all the rumours and done deals 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 .
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It really picks itself .
Neil Etheridge has had very little to do and looked decent doing it .
Maxime Colin is building a nice relationship with Ivan Sanchez – more of that later – and Kristian Pedersen is being nursed back to form .
Harlee Dean and George Friend look like a long-established centre-back pairing .
It might be tempting to put Mikel San Jose straight in – but it might also be an option to start the slightly more offensively minded Gary Gardner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as one of his on-field lieutenants , so he ’ ll start – and it would be the definition of ruthless to drop Ivan Sunjic .
The Croatian looks rejuvenated , without the ball .
I suggested to Karanka that Scott Hogan would love to play against a former club , he responded with ‘ So would I ’ .
Of course there ’ s every chance he ’ s bluffing but things do point to Lukas Jutkiewicz being The One in the 4-2-3-1 .
If Hogan doesn ’ t play that allows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his nose ahead in the battle with Dan Crowley for the occupancy of No .
10 , to return to the starting line-up .
For all his developing rapport with Colin , I ’ d like to see Sanchez spend some time on the left , his natural side , with Jeremie Bela on the right .
It probably won ’ t happen though .

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Three games in, one goal conceded and zero from open play, it’s a different Birmingham City in virtually every way possible which makes a relatively quick return to Stoke this weekend.
For those of us who haven’t erased the last visit from our memories in July, caretaker management, experimental system and the heaviest 2-0 hammering imaginable, be assured nearly everything has changed.
Aitor Karanka’s Blues stopped being a soft defensive touch ages ago, getting on for three weeks now in fact.
With a settled back four, a high class goalkeeper and rigid shape in midfield Stoke will find Sunday’s visitors a far tougher nut to crack.
But just as Michael O’Neill’s men must figure out a way through the thick Blue line, so too Karanka's must find how to produce their first open play goal of the campaign.
Sign up to our newsletter for Birmingham City transfer news before deadline day Why should you sign up? Aitor Karanka has been busy in the transfer market but there is still time for more before the window closes on Monday at 11pm. You can keep up to date with all the rumours and done deals 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
Blues reporter Brian Dick predicts what he thinks Karanka will do at the Bet 365 Stadium.
System
It’ll be back to a 4-2-3-1.
GK/Defence
It really picks itself. Neil Etheridge has had very little to do and looked decent doing it. Maxime Colin is building a nice relationship with Ivan Sanchez – more of that later – and Kristian Pedersen is being nursed back to form. Harlee Dean and George Friend look like a long-established centre-back pairing.
Midfield
It might be tempting to put Mikel San Jose straight in – but it might also be an option to start the slightly more offensively minded Gary Gardner.
However, Karanka sees Adam Clayton as one of his on-field lieutenants, so he’ll start – and it would be the definition of ruthless to drop Ivan Sunjic. The Croatian looks rejuvenated, without the ball.
Pick your team here
Attack
I suggested to Karanka that Scott Hogan would love to play against a former club, he responded with ‘So would I’. Of course there’s every chance he’s bluffing but things do point to Lukas Jutkiewicz being The One in the 4-2-3-1.
If Hogan doesn’t play that allows Jon Toral, who seems to have his nose ahead in the battle with Dan Crowley for the occupancy of No. 10, to return to the starting line-up.
For all his developing rapport with Colin, I’d like to see Sanchez spend some time on the left, his natural side, with Jeremie Bela on the right. It probably won’t happen though.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--MCM Comic Con Birmingham's November show cancelled over coronavirus event rules

Organisers of MCM Comic Con Birmingham have announced that the November 2020 event has been cancelled .
The pop-culture convention - with special guests from TV and film , stalls of merchandise and colourful cosplayers - usually takes place at the NEC twice a year .
The first of the two annual events , originally scheduled for March , had been moved to June , but was then cancelled .
And now the second event , scheduled for November 14 and 15 , has also been axed for 2020 after the Government said it would not be allowing exhibition halls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surge in coronavirus cases .
The two-day spectaculars see thousands of sci-fi fans , gamers , comic collectors and movie buffs gather in Birmingham A statement from convention officials said : `` Today , we would like to let our community know that our MCM Comic Con Birmingham event , scheduled for November 2020 , will no longer be taking place .
`` This announcement follows the Government ’ s recently updated event rules for England .
`` MCM Comic Con is home to thousands of loving , passionate and creative fans who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you and we look forward to a time when we can once again open our doors , and give you the safe and memorable events you deserve .
`` Although we ca n't yet celebrate together physically , we aren ’ t going anywhere .
`` We have been working hard on a worldwide first for all our fans across the globe , and this October ( 8-11 ) , we invite you to join us in the New York Comic Con X MCM Comic Con Metaverse . ''
Check latest coronavirus information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ below : The Metaverse brings together pop culture favourites for an online event instead , with a host of special guests and other activities - find out more here The Government updated its guidance on September 22 after rising cases of coronavirus in England .
It said at the time : `` The spread of the virus is also affecting our ability to reopen business conferences , exhibition halls and large sporting events , so we will not be able to do this from 1 October . ''
Guidance now bans gatherings of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or outdoors .
Venues can host larger numbers overall if following Covid guidance - but only in groups of six with no mixing allowed between parties .

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Organisers of MCM Comic Con Birmingham have announced that the November 2020 event has been cancelled.
The pop-culture convention - with special guests from TV and film, stalls of merchandise and colourful cosplayers - usually takes place at the NEC twice a year.
The first of the two annual events, originally scheduled for March, had been moved to June, but was then cancelled.
And now the second event, scheduled for November 14 and 15, has also been axed for 2020 after the Government said it would not be allowing exhibition halls to reopen from October, following a surge in coronavirus cases.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
The two-day spectaculars see thousands of sci-fi fans, gamers, comic collectors and movie buffs gather in Birmingham.
A statement from convention officials said: "Today, we would like to let our community know that our MCM Comic Con Birmingham event, scheduled for November 2020, will no longer be taking place.
"This announcement follows the Government’s recently updated event rules for England.
"MCM Comic Con is home to thousands of loving, passionate and creative fans who inspire us every day. We miss you and we look forward to a time when we can once again open our doors, and give you the safe and memorable events you deserve.
"Although we can't yet celebrate together physically, we aren’t going anywhere.
"We have been working hard on a worldwide first for all our fans across the globe, and this October (8-11), we invite you to join us in the New York Comic Con X MCM Comic Con Metaverse."
Check latest coronavirus information in your postcode by typing it in below:
The Metaverse brings together pop culture favourites for an online event instead, with a host of special guests and other activities - find out more here
The Government updated its guidance on September 22 after rising cases of coronavirus in England.
It said at the time: "The spread of the virus is also affecting our ability to reopen business conferences, exhibition halls and large sporting events, so we will not be able to do this from 1 October."
Guidance now bans gatherings of more than six people, whether indoors or outdoors.
Venues can host larger numbers overall if following Covid guidance - but only in groups of six with no mixing allowed between parties.
Coronavirus rules have stopped many events taking place, including Birmingham's German Christmas Market.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Corberan coy on Grant future as West Brom pursuit drags on

Carlos Corberan has stressed that nothing has changed in Karlan Grant ’ s situation as West Brom ’ s pursuit of the striker continues to drag on ahead of two key dates in October .
This coming Monday , October 5 , marks the closure of the European window , though there is an extension for English clubs to conduct business among themselves - though not top flight sides with one another - which runs until October 16 .
Grant , who plundered 19 goals for a struggling Terriers side last term , has yet to play this season and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their side who tackle Rotherham in a Yorkshire derby this weekend .
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Google Play Store and App @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is wanted by Sheffield United , Corberan is making do without them for the time being and is none the wiser as to how close they are to heading out of the John Smith ’ s Stadium door .
“ Obviously I don ’ t know the situation because I don ’ t control the market , ” he told YorkshireLive .
“ A lot of times the clubs are waiting until the last moment to make their last offers .
I don ’ t know if it ’ s going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I can not predict what I don ’ t know .
“ So the situation with both players is the same .
Both have options to move and maybe both have options to stay if they don ’ t make any deal with any club .
But right now our situation is exactly the same with both players and they are both involved in a different type of [ training ] work because they are not going to be involved in the next game.
” That said , Corberan hopes that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the forthcoming transfer window deadlines , he can reintegrate his talisman into the first-team .
“ It ’ s not the best situation , of course , but at the same time we need to adapt to any scenario , ” he added .
“ If at the end the players are going stay here then we will try to make the best with them because they were showing , especially Grant , that he was a very important player for this club .
“ If he ’ s not out of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will work with him trying to help the team that he has to do .
”

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Carlos Corberan has stressed that nothing has changed in Karlan Grant’s situation as West Brom’s pursuit of the striker continues to drag on ahead of two key dates in October.
This coming Monday, October 5, marks the closure of the European window, though there is an extension for English clubs to conduct business among themselves - though not top flight sides with one another - which runs until October 16.
Grant, who plundered 19 goals for a struggling Terriers side last term, has yet to play this season and will be once again left out of their side who tackle Rotherham in a Yorkshire derby this weekend.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Along with Terrence Kongolo, who is wanted by Sheffield United, Corberan is making do without them for the time being and is none the wiser as to how close they are to heading out of the John Smith’s Stadium door.
“Obviously I don’t know the situation because I don’t control the market,” he told YorkshireLive.
“A lot of times the clubs are waiting until the last moment to make their last offers. I don’t know if it’s going to be the case with these players or not. I cannot predict what I don’t know.
“So the situation with both players is the same. Both have options to move and maybe both have options to stay if they don’t make any deal with any club.
But right now our situation is exactly the same with both players and they are both involved in a different type of [training] work because they are not going to be involved in the next game.”
That said, Corberan hopes that, should Grant remain at the club after the forthcoming transfer window deadlines, he can reintegrate his talisman into the first-team.
“It’s not the best situation, of course, but at the same time we need to adapt to any scenario,” he added.
“If at the end the players are going stay here then we will try to make the best with them because they were showing, especially Grant, that he was a very important player for this club.
“If he’s not out of the club he will be our player and we will work with him trying to help the team that he has to do.”


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Former Redditch MP Jacqui Smith posts picture after Strictly transformation

This is former Redditch MP Jacqui Smith as you 've never seen her before .
The ex Labour Home Secretary revealed a glamorous picture of herself after she 'd been `` Strictly-fied '' .
Jacqui , aged 57 , is a contestant in this year 's Strictly Come Dancing and posted the photograph on her Twitter account .
It shows her with curled hair , heavy make-up and a plunging neckline .
She joked : `` Here ’ s a little tease of things to come !
Of course I look like this every weekend . ''
Jacqui lost her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a media commentator and has her own podcast .
The politician is hoping to follow in the footsteps of her former colleague , Ed Balls , who was a huge hit on Strictly when he appeared in The show is shorter this year due to Covid-19 and will begin on October 24 and finish the week before Christmas .
Posting the photograph on Twitter , Jacqui paid tribute to the show 's `` glam squad '' of hair and make-up artists .
She wrote : `` The @ bbcstrictly wardrobe , hair and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a little tease of things to come !
( Of course I look like this every weekend when recording @ forthemanypod and that @ IaianDale is a fiend for the sequins ) . ''

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This is former Redditch MP Jacqui Smith as you've never seen her before.
The ex Labour Home Secretary revealed a glamorous picture of herself after she'd been "Strictly-fied".
Jacqui, aged 57, is a contestant in this year's Strictly Come Dancing and posted the photograph on her Twitter account.
It shows her with curled hair, heavy make-up and a plunging neckline.
She joked: "Here’s a little tease of things to come! Of course I look like this every weekend."
Jacqui lost her Redditch seat in 2010 and is now a media commentator and has her own podcast.
The politician is hoping to follow in the footsteps of her former colleague, Ed Balls, who was a huge hit on Strictly when he appeared in
Jacqui will join contestants including HRVY, Jason Bell, Ranvir Singh, Clara Amfo, Caroline Quentin, Jamie Laing, Bill Bailey, JJ Chalmers, Max George, Maisie Smith and Nicola Adams.
The show is shorter this year due to Covid-19 and will begin on October 24 and finish the week before Christmas.
Posting the photograph on Twitter, Jacqui paid tribute to the show's "glam squad" of hair and make-up artists.
She wrote: "The @bbcstrictly wardrobe, hair and makeup teams are genius. Here’s a little tease of things to come! (Of course I look like this every weekend when recording @forthemanypod and that @IaianDale is a fiend for the sequins)."


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Turkey, Poland and three Caribbean islands put on travel quarantine list

Turkey and Poland have today ( Thursday ) been removed from the UK 's travel corridors list .
It means anyone returning from them will have to self-isolate for 14 days .
Also on the quarantine list now are the Caribbean islands of Bonaire , St Eustatius and Saba .
The Mirror reports how the Government has added them to the list because of concerns over rising numbers of coronavirus cases in these destinations .
Brits returning from these countries after 4am on Saturday October 3 will be required to quarantine for 14 days .
Secretary of State for Transport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latest changes .
He tweeted : `` TRAVEL CORRIDOR UPDATE : The latest data indicates we need to remove Turkey , Poland , and Bonaire , St Eustatius and Saba from the # TravelCorridor list this week .
`` This means if you arrive from these destinations from 4am Saturday 3 October , you will need to self-isolate '' If you 've got a holiday booked to these destinations , click here for a full guide as to what to do if the Foreign Office changes its travel advice .
Despite today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries where British travellers wo n't need to quarantine .
For a full list click here .
It includes the popular resorts such as mainland Greece and Italy .
However , with travel restrictions quickly changing during the pandemic , no matter where you are looking to travel you should check the latest FCDO advice for your destination .
This includes before you plan , book or go on a trip .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Julie Delahaye, Jane Tyler)

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Turkey and Poland have today (Thursday) been removed from the UK's travel corridors list.
It means anyone returning from them will have to self-isolate for 14 days.
Also on the quarantine list now are the Caribbean islands of Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba.
The Mirror reports how the Government has added them to the list because of concerns over rising numbers of coronavirus cases in these destinations.
Brits returning from these countries after 4am on Saturday October 3 will be required to quarantine for 14 days.
Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps took to Twitter to announce the latest changes.
He tweeted: "TRAVEL CORRIDOR UPDATE: The latest data indicates we need to remove Turkey, Poland, and Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba from the #TravelCorridor list this week.
"This means if you arrive from these destinations from 4am Saturday 3 October, you will need to self-isolate"
If you've got a holiday booked to these destinations, click here for a full guide as to what to do if the Foreign Office changes its travel advice.
Despite today's additions, there are still some countries where British travellers won't need to quarantine. For a full list click here. It includes the popular resorts such as mainland Greece and Italy.
However, with travel restrictions quickly changing during the pandemic, no matter where you are looking to travel you should check the latest FCDO advice for your destination. This includes before you plan, book or go on a trip.


birminghammail--2020-10-01--Barbers closed after 'staff failed to wear PPE' during Covid-19 pandemic

A city barbers has been closed down for repeatedly failing Covid-19 guidelines – with police calling it a serious threat to public safety .
Naz Barbers , off Dudley Road , in Blakenhall , has been handed a closure notice by Wolverhampton City Council after a string of problems on Thursday , October 1 .
The council 's environmental health team first visited the business in April after receiving a number of complaints relating to the premises operating for business when it was classed as a 'non-essential site ' and was subject to closure .
At the time , verbal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Environmental Health team and West Midlands Police once again returned in August and found that no PPE was being worn by staff .
Customers were not seen to be wearing any form of face covering and there were no signs advising clients of the requirements .
In addition , the owner had failed to carry out a suitable and sufficient Covid-19 risk assessment , including the failure to identify and implement adequate control measures to prevent the spread of the virus by others .
During further visits in September , correct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customers were not seen to be wearing any form of face covering .
Today 's notice of closure will run for 28 days , during which time council officers will continue to work with the owner to ensure measures are in place so the business can safely reopen .
Councillor Steve Evans , Cabinet Member for City Environment , said : `` The actions of the business owner are causing a serious and imminent threat to public health .
There is a clear need to prevent further potential risk or harm and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of closure .
`` The closure of the premises is in response to regular and serious breaches of PPE compliance as well as other inadequate controls resulting in the potential spread of coronavirus .
`` As a council , we take a zero-tolerance approach to those who flout the rules and who knowingly put others at risk .
We have visited this business on several occasions , and it is not acceptable for them to ignore the guidance which has been set out by the government to protect the public from the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the vast majority of businesses in our city are acting responsibly and abiding by the rules .
`` We will continue our close partnership working with the Police and our Public Health colleagues to protect the public by clamping down on those who are selfishly putting customers and their staff at risk.
” To report an issue , please contact environmental.health @ wolverhampton.gov.uk .
Wolverhampton Police Superintendent , Simon Inglis , added : `` Throughout this pandemic we have worked very closely with Public Health , Environmental Health and the Local Authority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It is absolutely clear that there have been a number of breaches of the regulations by this establishment in recent weeks and also many opportunities to make the relevant changes that would make their business safe for the public .
`` However , it is clear from our joint visits that such opportunities to improve were not taken , thus presenting a considerable risk to the residents of a city that is currently seeing an increase in infections .
`` Therefore , I was left with no option but to support the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the key roles of policing : protecting our communities .
`` My message to any other business who chooses to act in a similar way is that we will always be ready to support you if you have difficulties , but will be robust and prompt in our support of the Local Authority if such breaches continue to occur . ''
Businesses that would like support in implementing the latest Covid-19 guidance should contact the City of Wolverhampton Council ’ s Trade With Confidence team on 01902 552079 or via tradewithconfidence.food @ wolverhampton.gov.uk @

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A city barbers has been closed down for repeatedly failing Covid-19 guidelines – with police calling it a serious threat to public safety.
Naz Barbers, off Dudley Road, in Blakenhall, has been handed a closure notice by Wolverhampton City Council after a string of problems on Thursday, October 1.
The council's environmental health team first visited the business in April after receiving a number of complaints relating to the premises operating for business when it was classed as a 'non-essential site' and was subject to closure.
At the time, verbal and written warnings were issued.
Officers from the Environmental Health team and West Midlands Police once again returned in August and found that no PPE was being worn by staff.
Customers were not seen to be wearing any form of face covering and there were no signs advising clients of the requirements.
In addition, the owner had failed to carry out a suitable and sufficient Covid-19 risk assessment, including the failure to identify and implement adequate control measures to prevent the spread of the virus by others.
During further visits in September, correct PPE was still not being used and customers were not seen to be wearing any form of face covering.
Today's notice of closure will run for 28 days, during which time council officers will continue to work with the owner to ensure measures are in place so the business can safely reopen.
Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Environment, said: "The actions of the business owner are causing a serious and imminent threat to public health. There is a clear need to prevent further potential risk or harm and that is why we have issued this notice of closure.
"The closure of the premises is in response to regular and serious breaches of PPE compliance as well as other inadequate controls resulting in the potential spread of coronavirus.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"As a council, we take a zero-tolerance approach to those who flout the rules and who knowingly put others at risk. We have visited this business on several occasions, and it is not acceptable for them to ignore the guidance which has been set out by the government to protect the public from the virus.
"I am pleased to say that the vast majority of businesses in our city are acting responsibly and abiding by the rules.
"We will continue our close partnership working with the Police and our Public Health colleagues to protect the public by clamping down on those who are selfishly putting customers and their staff at risk.”
To report an issue, please contact environmental.health@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
(Image: Wolves Council)
Wolverhampton Police Superintendent, Simon Inglis, added: "Throughout this pandemic we have worked very closely with Public Health, Environmental Health and the Local Authority and will continue to do so.
"It is absolutely clear that there have been a number of breaches of the regulations by this establishment in recent weeks and also many opportunities to make the relevant changes that would make their business safe for the public.
"However, it is clear from our joint visits that such opportunities to improve were not taken, thus presenting a considerable risk to the residents of a city that is currently seeing an increase in infections.
"Therefore, I was left with no option but to support the closure in the interests of one of the key roles of policing: protecting our communities.
"My message to any other business who chooses to act in a similar way is that we will always be ready to support you if you have difficulties, but will be robust and prompt in our support of the Local Authority if such breaches continue to occur."
Businesses that would like support in implementing the latest Covid-19 guidance should contact the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Trade With Confidence team on 01902 552079 or via tradewithconfidence.food@wolverhampton.gov.uk.