birminghammail--2020-08-15--Thousands of families denied Universal Credit and Child Benefit over status rule

Tens of thousands of families are being denied access to Universal Credit , Child Benefit and other support because of status rules .
The struggle to get cash - especially during the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the economy - is worsening financial hardship , a report claims .
Families of an estimated 175,634 children in the UK have no recourse to public funds ( NRPF ) , according to a report by the migration observatory at the University of Oxford .
Campaigners claim the status rules are driving people to destitution or even making them homeless because they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The standard condition applied to people staying in the UK with a temporary immigration status means they are unable to access most state financial support including Universal Credit , Child Benefit , Housing Benefit and a range of other allowances and tax credits .
The research also indicates more than a million children ( 1,082,000 ) in the UK do not have British or Irish citizenship .
Last year 28 per cent of all children under 18 living in the UK , a total of 3.8 million , had at least one parent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also suggests .
Meanwhile the report warned that it was impossible to know the number of children who were eligible to apply for the EU settlement scheme because `` there is no population register in the UK '' .
Senior researcher Dr Marina Fernandez-Reino said : `` We estimate that 175,000 children in the UK live in families whose immigration conditions mean that they are likely to have no recourse to public funds ( NRPF ) .
`` Having NFPF could increase the financial hardship of children in families whose adult members had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ losses as a result of the Covid-19 crisis .
`` More than a quarter of children under age 18 living in the UK have at least one parent who was born abroad , so this group is important both for current migration debates and for the future of the UK as a whole .
`` Our analysis shows that while an estimated 29 per cent of children under 16 in UK-born households face deprivation of some sort , for children of non-EU parents the level is 43 per cent . ''
Calls have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be suspended , with campaigners calling for a review after claiming the conditions drive children and their parents to destitution or made homeless because they can not access state financial support .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised to look again at the conditions while Home Secretary Priti Patel denied the policy amounts to racial discrimination .

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Tens of thousands of families are being denied access to Universal Credit, Child Benefit and other support because of status rules.
The struggle to get cash - especially during the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the economy - is worsening financial hardship, a report claims.
Families of an estimated 175,634 children in the UK have no access to state help, according to a report by the migration observatory at the University of Oxford.
Campaigners say the status rules are driving people to destitution or even making them homeless because they cannot get cash for essentials.
The standard condition applied to people staying in the UK with a temporary immigration status means they are unable to access most state financial support including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, Housing Benefit and a range of other allowances and tax credits.
The research also indicates more than a million children (1,082,000) in the UK do not have British or Irish citizenship.
Last year 28 per cent of all children under 18 living in the UK, a total of 3.8 million, had at least one parent who was born abroad, the analysis also suggests.
Meanwhile the report warned that it was impossible to know the number of children who were eligible to apply for the EU settlement scheme because "there is no population register in the UK".
Senior researcher Dr Marina Fernandez-Reino said: "We estimate that 175,000 children in the UK live in families whose immigration conditions mean that they are likely to have no recourse to public funds (NRPF).
"Having NFPF could increase the financial hardship of children in families whose adult members had lost their jobs or had large income losses as a result of the Covid-19 crisis.
"More than a quarter of children under age 18 living in the UK have at least one parent who was born abroad, so this group is important both for current migration debates and for the future of the UK as a whole.
"Our analysis shows that while an estimated 29 per cent of children under 16 in UK-born households face deprivation of some sort, for children of non-EU parents the level is 43 per cent."
Calls have previously been made for the policy to be suspended, with campaigners calling for a review after claiming the conditions drive children and their parents to destitution or homelessness because they cannot access state financial support.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised to look again at the conditions while Home Secretary Priti Patel denied the policy amounts to racial discrimination.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Public urged not to approach missing man who may have knife

Police have warned the public not to approach a missing man who they say 'could be armed with a knife ' .
Officers are urgently trying to trace Yaddollah Ghasemi after he vanished from his flat in the Ladywood area on Friday afternoon , August 14 .
The 37-year-old was last seen leaving the property in a red t-shirt , shorts and blue trainers .
Cops said they need to find him as soon as possible amid fears he may be in possession of a blade .
They added they were `` extremely concerned '' for his mental health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Asian and of medium athletic build - and a photo released by the force can also be seen above .
Anyone who sees him should not approach , but instead dial 999 immediately , West Midlands Police warned .
The appeal , shared on Saturday ( August 15 ) read : `` We ’ re urgently looking to trace a man who has gone missing in Birmingham and we ’ re warning members of the public not to approach him .
`` Yaddollah Ghasemi , aged 37 , was last seen leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham yesterday afternoon ( 14 August ) .
`` We ’ re extremely concerned for his mental health and wellbeing and need to find him as soon as possible .
`` Yaddollah is Asian and 6ft tall with a medium athletic build .
He was last seen wearing a red t-shirt with numbers on the front , shorts and blue trainers .
`` He could be in possession of a knife , and we ’ d urge members of the public not to approach him if seen , but to please call us @ @ @ @ @

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Police have warned the public not to approach a missing man who they say 'could be armed with a knife'.
Officers are urgently trying to trace Yaddollah Ghasemi after he vanished from his flat in the Ladywood area on Friday afternoon, August 14.
The 37-year-old was last seen leaving the property in a red t-shirt, shorts and blue trainers.
Cops said they need to find him as soon as possible amid fears he may be in possession of a blade.
They added they were "extremely concerned" for his mental health and wellbeing.
He was described as 6ft, Asian and of medium athletic build - and a photo released by the force can also be seen above.
Anyone who sees him should not approach, but instead dial 999 immediately, West Midlands Police warned.
The appeal, shared on Saturday (August 15) read: "We’re urgently looking to trace a man who has gone missing in Birmingham and we’re warning members of the public not to approach him.
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"Yaddollah Ghasemi, aged 37, was last seen leaving his flat in the Ladywood area of Birmingham yesterday afternoon (14 August).
"We’re extremely concerned for his mental health and wellbeing and need to find him as soon as possible.
"Yaddollah is Asian and 6ft tall with a medium athletic build. He was last seen wearing a red t-shirt with numbers on the front, shorts and blue trainers.
"He could be in possession of a knife, and we’d urge members of the public not to approach him if seen, but to please call us on 999 immediately."


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Ginger-haired men needed to get naked for Red Hot charity calendar

Calling all gingers , now is your chance to shine !
Red-headed men are being invited to get their kit off for a charity calendar .
Red Hot , an organisation founded to change the perception of red-headed men , has opened applications to take part in next year 's calendar .
The organisation has so far produced ten calendars as well as books and a global exhibition after being founded by photographer Thomas Knights in 2013 .
Red hair is the rarest of hair colours and accounts for just 0.6 per cent of the global population .
Ireland has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ redheads at 10 per cent , next only to Scotland at 13 per cent .
The United States is believed to have less than 2 per cent of redheads .
Red Hot has also already raised more than £60,000 for The Diana Award and the Terrence Higgins Trust .
The upcoming Red Hot calendar 2020 is being produced in aid of It ’ s In The Bag , a testicular cancer charity , our sister title Coventry Live reports .
It will also provide funds to Lady Gaga ’ s Born This Way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to supporting the wellness of young people and empowering them to create a kinder and braver world . ''
Alongside the charity calendar , Red Hot is also working on a short film directed by Kassandra Powell .
Charity founder Knights said : `` In the film we wanted to convey a heavenly paradise , where the birds , bees and butterflies fill the air looking for that valuable sticky-sweet nectar .
`` Morning dew drops form on the tip of open leaves , the air is thick with an intense aroma of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and feminine themes , fragile petals brush up against soft skin on hard muscle , innocence meets sexual desires , forbidden fantasies finally find the light ... and only love exists . ''
You can apply via the company ’ s Instagram page or by email at contact @ redhot100.com Candidates will have to keep the weekend of August 22-24 free as this is when the campaign photoshoot is taking place .
They must also be confident about showing off their bodies .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Neil Shaw, David Bentley)

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Calling all gingers, now is your chance to shine!
Red-headed men are being invited to get their kit off for a charity calendar.
Red Hot, an organisation founded to change the perception of red-headed men, has opened applications to take part in next year's calendar.
The organisation has so far produced ten calendars as well as books and a global exhibition after being founded by photographer Thomas Knights in 2013.
Red hair is the rarest of hair colours and accounts for just 0.6 per cent of the global population.
Ireland has the second highest per capita population of redheads at 10 per cent, next only to Scotland at 13 per cent. The United States is believed to have less than 2 per cent of redheads.
(Image: Getty Images)
Red Hot has also already raised more than £60,000 for The Diana Award and the Terrence Higgins Trust.
The upcoming Red Hot calendar 2020 is being produced in aid of It’s In The Bag, a testicular cancer charity, our sister title Coventry Live reports.
It will also provide funds to Lady Gaga’s Born This Way non-profit organisation, which "is committed to supporting the wellness of young people and empowering them to create a kinder and braver world."
Alongside the charity calendar, Red Hot is also working on a short film directed by Kassandra Powell.
Charity founder Knights said: "In the film we wanted to convey a heavenly paradise, where the birds, bees and butterflies fill the air looking for that valuable sticky-sweet nectar.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"Morning dew drops form on the tip of open leaves, the air is thick with an intense aroma of jasmine.
"We play with masculine and feminine themes, fragile petals brush up against soft skin on hard muscle, innocence meets sexual desires, forbidden fantasies finally find the light... and only love exists."
You can apply via the company’s Instagram page or by email at contact@redhot100.com
Candidates will have to keep the weekend of August 22-24 free as this is when the campaign photoshoot is taking place.
They must also be confident about showing off their bodies.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Bride-to-be fights tears as Cadbury Club blaze wrecks reception plans

Bride-to-be Kelly Mckain fought back tears today - after seeing for herself the charred remains of her dream wedding reception venue .
Every girl wants to feel like a princess on the day she ties the knot .
But , just a week after she had paid a £300 deposit to hold her party at the Cadbury Club in Bournville , teaching assistant Kelly was close to tears as she surveyed the smouldering cinders of the building .
Kelly 's wedding reception was due to be held at the community club on Saturday , August 21 , 2021 .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the height of the blaze , West Midlands Fire Service had sent nine appliances to the scene in a bid to bring it under control .
Kelly and fiance Daniel Snook visited the site at 7am today just to double check if their dream really had turned into a nightmare .
Seeing two firefighting teams still at the site confirmed the couple 's worst fears - that their reception plans were toast .
Only when the firefighters had finished putting out all of the 'hot spots ' would fire investigators then be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire .
Whatever they find out , Kelly and Daniel could tell from the sheer scale of the devastation that their dream wedding plans had just gone up in flames .
Along with the clouds of smoke that were seen billowing across Birmingham for miles last night ... Harborne-based Kelly and Daniel have known each other for more than four years and he had proposed during a romantic visit to Liverpool last May .
She 's from Harborne and he 's from Halesowen , so they chose a Quinton church in which to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ St Boniface on the edge of the Woodgate Valley Country Park .
The couple then spent ages trying to find the perfect wedding venue before Kelly 's godparents suggested the Cadbury Club next door to their own home in Franklin House , a former Cadbury office block recently converted into apartments .
Kelly took one look and knew the Cadbury Club was for her - it has a 'secret ' park next door with little known historic features at Bournville Girls Rec .
Social distancing would have been no problem even if that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .
And the grounds would have been ideal for fantastic wedding pictures , too .
Unlike many a typical wedding hotel , the venue would have offered privacy and a relaxed atmosphere , all cloaked in a bit of Cadbury history that would have been like sprinkling a touch of magic dust on the whole evening .
Because of the pandemic , just trying to book a wedding reception for August next year had not been easy .
Kelly says : `` When the Cadbury Club reopened last Friday , we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opened the door .
`` We wanted to make sure that nobody else could have our date and we paid the deposit of £300 .
`` I really do n't know yet what we are going to do yet , but the people running the Cadbury Club were so lovely my heart goes out to them .
`` They had been telling us about all the things we could do to make our wedding exactly how we wanted it .
`` I assume we 'll get our deposit refunded - because of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to insure our wedding .
`` Everyone had told me John Lewis was the best for that , but companies have been having so any claims we had n't been able to get any insurance . ''
A teaching assistant at Lozells Primary School - where she 's nicknamed Miss Chips because of her 'wrongly spelled ' Mckain surname - Kelly has two children from a previous relationship .
Son Ricardo is now 26 , while daughter Ruby is 21 and still at home with special needs .
Dan , 41 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that manufactures self-service drink dispensers but has been furloughed four times since the original pandemic lockdown began in March .
Now 46 , Kelly says : `` I was so looking forward to getting married to Dan , the wedding would have been all about showing the rest of the world how we feel about each other and just celebrating our love with one big party .
`` The Cadbury Club was going to be the perfect venue for us and it would have meant the world to have had our reception there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but then died from Covid-19 so we had already lost her in June .
`` And now we 've lost our wedding reception venue , too . ''
Making the wedding even more special would have been the fact that neither Kelly nor keen runner Dan had been married before .
Indeed , they each have two siblings and none of the six children by Kelly 's mother Linda and Dan 's mum Elaine have yet married so they would have been the first in their generation to tie the knot .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , too .
Kelly said : `` Ruby has special needs and she had to be sectioned three years ago .
`` That was truly the most humblest , saddest thing I 've ever had to do .
`` But she 's back at home with us and Dan has been so lovely with her .
`` We were just so looking forward to getting married .
`` Seeing the Cadbury Club going up in flames was heartbreaking . ''
Although St Boniface church building has yet to reopen , services are still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 10.30am .
The St Boniface website says of Rev Knox : `` She was a great woman and a major part of our church family , and will be greatly missed by all who knew her .
`` The morning Zoom service on Sunday 14 featud extensive remembrances and tributes to Janet . ''
Cadbury 's US owner Mondelez said it recognised the `` important role '' the Cadbury Club had played in the community for years and was saddened by the events .
It was liaising with the emergency services to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a Mondelez International spokesperson said : `` We can confirm that the fire which broke out at the Cadbury Club yesterday has now been extinguished by the emergency services .
`` We are relieved to hear that nobody was hurt in the incident and can confirm that our employees at our Bournville site are all safe .
`` We continue to work closely with , and be guided by , the emergency services . ''

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Bride-to-be Kelly Mckain fought back tears today - after seeing for herself the charred remains of her dream wedding reception venue.
Every girl wants to feel like a princess on the day she ties the knot.
But, just a week after she had paid a £300 deposit to hold her party at the Cadbury Club in Bournville, teaching assistant Kelly was close to tears as she surveyed the smouldering cinders of the building.
Kelly's wedding reception was due to be held at the community club on Saturday, August 21, 2021.
The alarm was raised at 4.45pm yesterday and at the height of the blaze, West Midlands Fire Service had sent nine appliances to the scene in a bid to bring it under control.
Kelly and fiance Daniel Snook visited the site at 7am today just to double check if their dream really had turned into a nightmare.
Seeing two firefighting teams still at the site confirmed the couple's worst fears - that their reception plans were toast.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
Only when the firefighters had finished putting out all of the 'hot spots' would fire investigators then be able to determine the cause of the fire.
Whatever they find out, Kelly and Daniel could tell from the sheer scale of the devastation that their dream wedding plans had just gone up in flames.
Along with the clouds of smoke that were seen billowing across Birmingham for miles last night...
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
Love story
Harborne-based Kelly and Daniel have known each other for more than four years and he had proposed during a romantic visit to Liverpool last May.
She's from Harborne and he's from Halesowen, so they chose a Quinton church in which to marry halfway between their two families - St Boniface on the edge of the Woodgate Valley Country Park.
The couple then spent ages trying to find the perfect wedding venue before Kelly's godparents suggested the Cadbury Club next door to their own home in Franklin House, a former Cadbury office block recently converted into apartments.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
Kelly took one look and knew the Cadbury Club was for her - it has a 'secret' park next door with little known historic features at Bournville Girls Rec.
Social distancing would have been no problem even if that was still a requirement in August next year.
And the grounds would have been ideal for fantastic wedding pictures, too.
Unlike many a typical wedding hotel, the venue would have offered privacy and a relaxed atmosphere, all cloaked in a bit of Cadbury history that would have been like sprinkling a touch of magic dust on the whole evening.
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
Securing the booking
Because of the pandemic, just trying to book a wedding reception for August next year had not been easy.
Kelly says: "When the Cadbury Club reopened last Friday, we were queueing up outside before they'd even opened the door.
"We wanted to make sure that nobody else could have our date and we paid the deposit of £300.
(Image: Nick Wilkinson / BirminghamLive)
"I really don't know yet what we are going to do yet, but the people running the Cadbury Club were so lovely my heart goes out to them.
"They had been telling us about all the things we could do to make our wedding exactly how we wanted it.
"I assume we'll get our deposit refunded - because of the pandemic, we hadn't even been able to insure our wedding.
"Everyone had told me John Lewis was the best for that, but companies have been having so any claims we hadn't been able to get any insurance."
(Image: Nick Wilkinson / BirminghamLive)
Plans up in smoke
A teaching assistant at Lozells Primary School - where she's nicknamed Miss Chips because of her 'wrongly spelled' Mckain surname - Kelly has two children from a previous relationship.
Son Ricardo is now 26, while daughter Ruby is 21 and still at home with special needs.
Dan, 41, works in a Halesowen for a company that manufactures self-service drink dispensers but has been furloughed four times since the original pandemic lockdown began in March.
Now 46, Kelly says: "I was so looking forward to getting married to Dan, the wedding would have been all about showing the rest of the world how we feel about each other and just celebrating our love with one big party.
"The Cadbury Club was going to be the perfect venue for us and it would have meant the world to have had our reception there.
"Our vicar had had cancer and sadly died in June.
"And now we've lost our wedding reception venue, too."
Making the wedding even more special would have been the fact that neither Kelly nor keen runner Dan had been married before.
Indeed, they each have two siblings and none of the six children by Kelly's mother Linda and Dan's mum Elaine have yet married so they would have been the first in their generation to tie the knot.
The couple have also both lost their fathers, too.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Kelly said: "Ruby has special needs and she had to be sectioned three years ago.
"That was truly the most humblest, saddest thing I've ever had to do.
"But she's back at home with us and Dan has been so lovely with her.
"We were just so looking forward to getting married.
"Seeing the Cadbury Club going up in flames was heartbreaking."
+ The Rev Janet Knox died on Monday, June 8.
Although St Boniface church building has yet to reopen, services are still being held via Zoom every Sunday morning at 10.30am.
The St Boniface website says of Rev Knox: "She was a great woman and a major part of our church family, and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
"The morning Zoom service on Sunday 14 featud extensive remembrances and tributes to Janet."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
View from Mondelez
Cadbury's US owner Mondelez said it recognised the "important role" the Cadbury Club had played in the community for years and was saddened by the events.
It was liaising with the emergency services to understand more detail.
In a statement, a Mondelez International spokesperson said: "We can confirm that the fire which broke out at the Cadbury Club yesterday has now been extinguished by the emergency services.
"We are relieved to hear that nobody was hurt in the incident and can confirm that our employees at our Bournville site are all safe.
"We continue to work closely with, and be guided by, the emergency services."


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Aston Villa 'enquire' about Faouzi Ghoulam - report

Aston Villa have made an enquiry for a new left-back , according to reports .
While Villa 's position of need in the current transfer window is a striker , the Villans have been linked to a number of options at full-back , including Nottingham Forest 's Matty Cash , who would compete with Frederic Guilbert and Ahmed Elmohamady for the right-back role .
Now , new speculation links Villa to a player on the opposite side of the pitch , to compete with Neil Taylor and Matt Targett .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page or click here Journalist Nicolò Schira has reported that Villa have enquired about the availability of Napoli left-back Faouzi Ghoulam .
The full-back - 29 - has spent the last six years in Naples , and according to the report is also wanted by both Wolves and Lille , who along with Villa have asked about the availability of the left-back .
This follows earlier rumours linking Ghoulam to Wolves .
According to Tuttosport , the Algerian fell out of favour after starting just three games last season thanks to injury and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will help Ghoulam get his career back on track - with Napoli willing to sell the player represented by Mendes ' Gestifute .
If a deal is successful for either English club , Ghoulam would arrive in the West Midlands with plenty of top-tier and Champions League experience , although a transfer fee has n't been mooted for the full-back valued at £8.55 million by Transfermarkt .

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Aston Villa have made an enquiry for a new left-back, according to reports.
While Villa's position of need in the current transfer window is a striker, the Villans have been linked to a number of options at full-back, including Nottingham Forest's Matty Cash, who would compete with Frederic Guilbert and Ahmed Elmohamady for the right-back role.
Now, new speculation links Villa to a player on the opposite side of the pitch, to compete with Neil Taylor and Matt Targett.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Journalist Nicolò Schira has reported that Villa have enquired about the availability of Napoli left-back Faouzi Ghoulam.
The full-back - 29 - has spent the last six years in Naples, and according to the report is also wanted by both Wolves and Lille, who along with Villa have asked about the availability of the left-back.
This follows earlier rumours linking Ghoulam to Wolves.
According to Tuttosport, the Algerian fell out of favour after starting just three games last season thanks to injury and Mendes is working on a deal that will help Ghoulam get his career back on track - with Napoli willing to sell the player represented by Mendes' Gestifute.
If a deal is successful for either English club, Ghoulam would arrive in the West Midlands with plenty of top-tier and Champions League experience, although a transfer fee hasn't been mooted for the full-back valued at £8.55 million by Transfermarkt.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Ollie Watkins to Villa latest as negotiations set to 'ramp up'

Aston Villa have been linked with a move for Brentford striker Ollie Watkins .
The 24-year-old enjoyed a fantastic season for the Bees , helping them to the play-off final where they eventually missed out on promotion to the Premier League .
And he is now being linked with a host of clubs , Villa being just one .
Below we run you through all the latest on Watkins , including Brentford 's stance on the talented striker .
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Google Play Store and App Store Watkins prefers a move to Villa if he leaves Brentford this summer , according to reports .
According to Sky Sports , he wants to reunite with Villa head coach Dean Smith should the opportunity come about .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Exeter City three years ago and helped oversee his development before being appointed at Villa Park .
Villa have been tipped to complete a double swoop on Brentford for Watkins and Said Benrahma .
You can find out everything about the Benrahma situation here .
The winger combined brilliantly with Watkins who netted 25 times in the Championship last season .
Watkins is a huge player for the Bees , under contract until 2023 , but after they missed out on promotion with defeat to Fulham in the play-off final , his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are plenty of teams being linked with a move which could present a problem for Villa .
The Guardian reports Villa are showing 'strong interest ' in Watkins but Leeds United and Crystal Palace are also said to be keen .
According to Sky Sports , Brentford value their star pair at £50m , suggesting Watkins is valued at around £25m .
Earlier reports suggested it would be 'at least £18m ' for the striker , but it now seems it will take another £7m to get the deal done .
Watkins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2017 , so whether it 's £18m or £25m , they are set to make a huge profit on their frontman .
Watkins has been on holiday in Greece .
BirminghamLive 's Villa correspondent Ashley Preece reports : `` Negotiations are set to ramp up upon Watkins ’ return from his break from Monday onwards with the two clubs - Villa and Brentford - set for showdown talks .
`` The Brentford ace is being tracked by Smith who wants him in over the next fortnight ahead of the season-opener next month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't been drawn on speculation , but he is not surprised there is interest in his star men .
“ We played a top season , and we have some top players .
It ’ s of course natural that there is going to be interest , ” he told Sky Sports .
“ For me , it ’ s not about that now .
I ’ m not thinking about that .
I just know one thing - when we start again next season , we ’ ll have a very strong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll be ready to push .
“ I think there are good examples of the past , where teams come back even stronger , even hungrier and even more determined .
“ With this group of players , and this club , 100 % we ’ ll come back even stronger .
”

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The Aston Villa and Ollie Watkins saga that has rumbled for weeks seems to be reaching a conclusion.
The 24-year-old enjoyed a fantastic season for the Bees, helping them to the play-off final where they eventually missed out on promotion to the Premier League.
And he is now being linked with a host of clubs, Villa being just one.
Below we run you through all the latest as Dean Smith looks to have got his man.
Villa agree fee with Brentford
Villa are set to smash their transfer record to land Watkins.
Watkins is Dean Smith's top transfer target and a £28million deal has been struck with Brentford to bring him to Villa Park.
The BBC suggests the deal could also include £5million in add ons which would take the total to £33million and Villa are hoping to wrap it up quickly now.
Watkins will become the club's second signing of the transfer window following the £16million arrival of right-back Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest.
Sky Sports report he travelled to Birmingham last night and is set for a medical today.
He could be posing for pictures, holding the Claret and Blue shirt by close of play today.
Villa move would be 'perfect'
Watkins could have a similar impact to Tammy Abraham if he completes a 'perfect' move to Villa, former England winger Trevor Sinclair has said.
While Villa's forwards struggled for goals last term, Abraham found the net 26 times when he was on loan from Chelsea in the 2018/19 season and Sinclair believes Watkins would provide the same kind of boost.
“Villa would be perfect for him,” Sinclair told talkSport. “When they had Tammy Abraham they were flying and Ollie has got the same kind of figure and physicality.
“He’s quick and knows how to score a goal and get in the right areas. He would be perfect for Villa. I think he’s been a class act and deserves the move.”
Tottenham register interest
Villa aren't alone in their interest with a number of Premier League clubs looking to sign Watkins - and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly joined the race.
Jose Mourinho is looking to find a striker who can occasionally fill in for star striker Harry Kane in north London and The Mirror suggests Watkins is a target.
Big-money offer
Villa are reportedly ready to blow their competition out of the water, offering the Bees striker a bumper £70k-per-week contract.
According to the Sun, Smith and the Villa hierarchy are preparing to offer a financial package to the player, which should see them move ahead of the competition.
The same newspaper then reported last Sunday that Watkins is now 'likely' to join Villa with Brentford's capture of Ivan Toney from Peterborough the breakthrough Smith's side needed.
Villa were 'frustrated'
Villa had become frustrated with their pursuit of Watkins because of the lack of progress over a deal, according to Sky Sports.
BirminghamLive previously reported how Smith wants to get the move over the line to allow Watkins to settle in during pre-season.
But a report from Sky last month stated: "With Sheffield United, Fulham and Crystal Palace also keen on the 24-year-old, Villa fear they are in the middle of an auction, and are reluctant to get involved in a bidding war."
None of that seems to matter now.
Watkins 'keen' on Villa move
Watkins preferred a move to Villa, according to reports.
According to Sky, he wants to reunite with Villa head coach Smith should the opportunity come about.
As Brentford manager, Smith signed Watkins from Exeter City three years ago and helped oversee his development before being appointed at Villa Park.
Brentford admission
Brentford boss Thomas Frank hasn't been drawn on speculation, but he is not surprised there is interest in his star men.
“We played a top season, and we have some top players. It’s of course natural that there is going to be interest,” he told Sky Sports.
“For me, it’s not about that now. I’m not thinking about that. I just know one thing - when we start again next season, we’ll have a very strong side out there again, and we’ll be ready to push.
“I think there are good examples of the past, where teams come back even stronger, even hungrier and even more determined.
“With this group of players, and this club, 100% we’ll come back even stronger.”


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Moment cops shutdown rave as police bust 125 parties

These were the scenes as cops swooped on an illegal rave in a city street - as officers shutdown 125 parties over a single weekend .
Officers were filmed breaking up the large gathering in Elliot Street , Nechells as around 60-70 people gathered in the early hours of last Saturday ( August 8 ) .
In the bodyworn footage above , they can be heard calmly instructing party-goers to 'leave the location ' and 'disperse ' from the rave - which was held with a DJ from Gloucestershire .
As they continue to fill the streets , the officer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ please start dispersing out of the street .
Please , we 've been patient with you , please leave . ''
The footage captures just one of 125 parties and raves police dispersed amid a huge crackdown on illegal gatherings and anti-social behaviour across the West Midlands .
The force said it also had to close down a pub as they tried to disrupt scores of groups flouting the Covid-19 restrictions and potentially spreading the deadly virus .
West Midlands Police released the clip as they continued to educate party-goers that large gatherings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They also warned that anyone not following the guidelines could face prosecution if the guidelines are repeatedly ignored .
Police urged anyone who has information on parties or raves to inform them as they promised to act upon public tip-offs .
Chief Superintendent Claire Bell said : `` While we accept the last few months have been extremely difficult and people want to get out and have some fun , gatherings such as parties and unlicensed music events only increase the risk of spreading the virus .
`` Please think - is it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ putting the lives of your family and friends at risk .
“ We ’ re continuing to urge people to inform us if they hear of plans for raves and large gatherings in parks which can also lead to anti-social behaviour and noise nuisance . ''
The Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner , Waheed Saleem added : “ These gatherings aren ’ t just irresponsible , but illegal .
It ’ s important that those considering going to these events know that by attending them , you not only pose a risk to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about .
“ Coronavirus is very much still out there and events like this can easily spread the virus .
“ There has also been serious criminal behaviour reported ; stabbings , drug use and in some cases , shots fired .
They are dangerous and the proactive work of our police in clamping down on them is vital to keeping the public safe . ''
You can contact West Midlands Police on Live Chat via the website or call 101 .

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These were the scenes as cops swooped on an illegal rave in a city street - as officers shutdown 125 parties over a single weekend.
Officers were filmed breaking up the large gathering in Elliot Street, Nechells as around 60-70 people gathered in the early hours of last Saturday (August 8).
In the bodyworn footage above, they can be heard calmly instructing party-goers to 'leave the location' and 'disperse' from the rave - which was held with a DJ from Gloucestershire.
As they continue to fill the streets, the officer then repeats: "Everybody can we please start dispersing out of the street. Please, we've been patient with you, please leave."
The footage captures just one of 125 parties and raves police dispersed amid a huge crackdown on illegal gatherings and anti-social behaviour across the West Midlands.
The force said it also had to close down a pub as they tried to disrupt scores of groups flouting the Covid-19 restrictions and potentially spreading the deadly virus.
West Midlands Police released the clip as they continued to educate party-goers that large gatherings are still banned under coronavirus law.
They also warned that anyone not following the guidelines could face prosecution if the guidelines are repeatedly ignored.
(Image: WMP)
Police urged anyone who has information on parties or raves to inform them as they promised to act upon public tip-offs.
Chief Superintendent Claire Bell said: "While we accept the last few months have been extremely difficult and people want to get out and have some fun, gatherings such as parties and unlicensed music events only increase the risk of spreading the virus.
"Please think - is it worth the risk? You could be putting the lives of your family and friends at risk.
“We’re continuing to urge people to inform us if they hear of plans for raves and large gatherings in parks which can also lead to anti-social behaviour and noise nuisance."
The Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Waheed Saleem added: “These gatherings aren’t just irresponsible, but illegal. It’s important that those considering going to these events know that by attending them, you not only pose a risk to yourself, but also those you care about.
“Coronavirus is very much still out there and events like this can easily spread the virus.
“There has also been serious criminal behaviour reported; stabbings, drug use and in some cases, shots fired. They are dangerous and the proactive work of our police in clamping down on them is vital to keeping the public safe."
You can contact West Midlands Police on Live Chat via the website or call 101.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Debenhams bosses prepare for liquidation as thousands of jobs under threat

Debenhams is looking at the possibility of going into liquidation if rescue plans fail , it has been revealed .
Total closure of the department store chain would threaten thousands of jobs .
It is understood restructuring firm Hilco Capital has been appointed to work on `` contingency plans '' with the retailer in the event that a sales process for the well-known British high street brand fails .
Debenhams , which has 124 stores and employs a reported 14,000 staff across the UK , collapsed into administration four months ago and announced plans to axe 2,500 jobs throughout its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After lockdown shut down all businesses in Birmingham city centre in mid-March , the Bullring branch of the store reopened on June 17 - six weeks to the day after employees thought they had all been made redundant .
The smaller Debenhams unit at Fort Shopping Park in Erdington closed for good on January 11 .
Debenhams staff at the Bullring had been told on May 6 that they were all to lose their jobs because the store was being axed and would not reopen after lockdown .
Less than a week later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not closing down after all and it then started trading again in mid-June as coronavirus restrictions eased .
But the threat of closure still looms if the company 's attempts to find a rescue deal do not succeed .
A source close to the company said administrators were required to have liquidators on standby `` in the unlikely event that all other options for the business do not materialise '' .
A spokesman for the retailer said : `` Debenhams is trading strongly , with 124 stores reopened and a healthy cash position @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as previously stated , the administrators of Debenhams Retail Ltd have initiated a process to assess ways for the business to exit its protective administration .
`` The administrators have appointed advisers to help them assess the full range of possible outcomes which include the current owners retaining the business , potential new joint venture arrangements ( with existing and potential new investors ) , or a sale to a third party . ''
Hundreds of jobs have already been lost at the more than 200-year-old retailer since the start of lockdown after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April , it hired administrators from FRP Advisory in a protective measure against creditors demanding their money .
Hilco Capital has been contacted for comment .
More than 4,300 job losses have been announced this week by major British retailers and more than 730,000 UK workers have been taken off payrolls since March .

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Debenhams is looking at the possibility of going into liquidation if rescue plans fail, it has been revealed.
Total closure of the department store chain would threaten thousands of jobs.
It is understood restructuring firm Hilco Capital has been appointed to work on "contingency plans" with the retailer in the event that a sales process for the well-known British high street brand fails.
Debenhams, which has 124 stores and employs a reported 14,000 staff across the UK, collapsed into administration four months ago and announced plans to axe 2,500 jobs throughout its stores and warehouses earlier this week.
After lockdown shut down all businesses in Birmingham city centre in mid-March, the Bullring branch of the store reopened on June 17 - six weeks to the day after employees thought they had all been made redundant.
The smaller Debenhams unit at Fort Shopping Park in Erdington closed for good on January 11.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Debenhams staff at the Bullring had been told on May 6 that they were all to lose their jobs because the store was being axed and would not reopen after lockdown.
Less than a week later, workers were told the branch was not closing down after all and it then started trading again in mid-June as coronavirus restrictions eased.
But the threat of closure still looms if the company's attempts to find a rescue deal do not succeed.
A source close to the company said administrators were required to have liquidators on standby "in the unlikely event that all other options for the business do not materialise".
A spokesman for the retailer said: "Debenhams is trading strongly, with 124 stores reopened and a healthy cash position.
"As a result, and as previously stated, the administrators of Debenhams Retail Ltd have initiated a process to assess ways for the business to exit its protective administration.
"The administrators have appointed advisers to help them assess the full range of possible outcomes which include the current owners retaining the business, potential new joint venture arrangements (with existing and potential new investors), or a sale to a third party."
Hundreds of jobs have already been lost at the more than 200-year-old retailer since the start of lockdown after it permanently shut 18 stores.
In April, it hired administrators from FRP Advisory in a protective measure against creditors demanding their money.
Hilco Capital has been contacted for comment.
More than 4,300 job losses have been announced this week by major British retailers and more than 730,000 UK workers have been taken off payrolls since March.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--New walk in Covid-19 testing site opens

New walk in Covid-19 testing site opens

A new walk in Covid-19 testing site has been set up in Wolverhampton .
The facility , located on the Mountford Lane car park in Bilston , opened today ( Saturday , August 15 ) .
Anyone with symptoms - however mild - is urged to visit the site , which will open daily between 8am to 8pm .
No appointment is necessary .
The new site is part of City of Wolverhampton Council 's ongoing plans to increase the number of people getting tested , while making it more accessible for residents .
It 's the third walk in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the city - the other two are based in Showell Road , off Stafford Road , and Whitmore Reans Health Centre .
Councillor Linda Leach , Wolverhampton ’ s cabinet member for adults , said : “ As cabinet member for adults I want to encourage people of all ages , including the vulnerable , to get tested if they have any symptoms .
“ Mountford Lane car park is a convenient location in Bilston for local people to get tested .
We want to boost the number of people getting tests across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help us do that.
” Anyone who tests positive for Covid-19 will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace and will be asked to share information about people that have been close contacts recently .

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A new walk in Covid-19 testing site has been set up in Wolverhampton.
The facility, located on the Mountford Lane car park in Bilston, opened today (Saturday, August 15).
Anyone with symptoms - however mild - is urged to visit the site, which will open daily between 8am to 8pm.
No appointment is necessary.
The new site is part of City of Wolverhampton Council's ongoing plans to increase the number of people getting tested, while making it more accessible for residents.
It's the third walk in testing site to be set up in the city - the other two are based in Showell Road, off Stafford Road, and Whitmore Reans Health Centre.
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Councillor Linda Leach, Wolverhampton’s cabinet member for adults, said:
“As cabinet member for adults I want to encourage people of all ages, including the vulnerable, to get tested if they have any symptoms.
“Mountford Lane car park is a convenient location in Bilston for local people to get tested. We want to boost the number of people getting tests across the city and the new site will help us do that.”
Anyone who tests positive for Covid-19 will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace and will be asked to share information about people that have been close contacts recently.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Latest coronavirus death toll as four more die in English hospitals

A further four coronavirus-related deaths have been recorded in English hospitals - but none in the Midlands .
Four people , who tested positive for the Covid-19 , had died as of the latest daily figures released on Saturday , August 15 .
The total of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England stood at 29,456 as the new stats were released .
Patients were said to be aged between 66 and 88 years old , according to NHS England .
All had known underlying health conditions and their families have been informed .
The number of deaths of patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : One death was recorded in Wales and none in Scotland - bringing the total UK death toll in hospitals to 34,081 .
No new deaths were recorded in the Midlands , despite a big rise in coronavirus infections in Birmingham recorded in latest figures .
The city was said to have suffered a significant increase in its coronavirus infection rate , according to figures for England which cover the seven days up to August 11 .
The Covid-19 infection rate increased from 13.8 to 28.1 per 100,000 people after 321 new cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revealed , protesters were in Victoria Square , Birmingham city centre to demonstrate against wearing masks during the pandemic .
Dozens of unmasked demonstrators were seen crowded around listening to a speaker as he stood next to a sign suggesting 'Covid-19 is a smokescreen ' .
Despite the claims , the Government advice is to wear face masks and not to gather in large crowds .

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A further four coronavirus-related deaths have been recorded in English hospitals - but none in the Midlands.
Four people, who tested positive for the Covid-19, had died as of the latest daily figures released on Saturday, August 15.
The total of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England stood at 29,456 as the new stats were released.
Patients were said to be aged between 66 and 88 years old, according to NHS England.
All had known underlying health conditions and their families have been informed.
The number of deaths of patients with Covid-19 by region are as follows:
East of England 0
London 1
Midlands 0
North East & Yorkshire 1
North West 1
South East 1
South West 0
TOTAL 4
One death was recorded in Wales and none in Scotland - bringing the total UK death toll in hospitals to 34,081.
No new deaths were recorded in the Midlands, despite a big rise in coronavirus infections in Birmingham recorded in latest figures.
The city was said to have suffered a significant increase in its coronavirus infection rate, according to figures for England which cover the seven days up to August 11.
The Covid-19 infection rate increased from 13.8 to 28.1 per 100,000 people after 321 new cases were recorded.
As the figures were revealed, protesters were in Victoria Square, Birmingham city centre to demonstrate against wearing masks during the pandemic.
Dozens of unmasked demonstrators were seen crowded around listening to a speaker as he stood next to a sign suggesting 'Covid-19 is a smokescreen'.
Despite the claims, the Government advice is to wear face masks and not to gather in large crowds.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Birmingham City unveil new Nike home shirt for Aitor Karanka era

Birmingham City have - at long last - dropped their new home kit for the forthcoming Championship campaign .
The Nike number - which features betting sponsors Boyle Sports again - is remarkably different to last year 's Adidas kit and features a buttoned white collar and white sleeves .
Last season , Blues had navy-blue sleeves and a round-neck collar .
As far as today 's kit unveiling goes , the club put out a snazzy video of three Birmingham players in action upon a darkened St Andrew 's pitch - they were Jeremie Bela , Odin Bailey and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of first-team hero Jude who departed to Dortmund .
The video was captioned The Stage Awaits , with the fine details of the kit itself features local brewery Sadler 's Peaky Blinder and a triangular pattern .
The home strip is available to pre-order from Monday ( August 17 ) , with the website since crashing due to the demand placed on it , with the site reading : `` This website is under heavy load .
Please wait while we redirect you . ''
Blues , who signed a four-year deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ range .
Back in February , when replying to a fan account of Liverpool FC on Twitter , Nike ’ s senior director of global communications , Heidi Burgett , confirmed that the template kits were being scrapped by the company ahead of the new season .
What is being offered to clubs , now , is a variety of options for different aspects of the kit , which will provide a unique look to what Blues have ran .
“ We ’ re ditching the templates , ” Burgett tweeted .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had 65 chassis options available to them across varying necklines , sleeves , cuffs , badge placement , etc .
“ From hand-drawn prints to custom fonts , each team ’ s look will be its own .
”

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Birmingham City have - at long last - dropped their new home kit for the forthcoming Championship campaign.
The Nike number - which features betting sponsors Boyle Sports again - is remarkably different to last year's Adidas kit and features a buttoned white collar and white sleeves. Last season, Blues had navy-blue sleeves and a round-neck collar.
As far as today's kit unveiling goes, the club put out a snazzy video of three Birmingham players in action upon a darkened St Andrew's pitch - they were Jeremie Bela, Odin Bailey and 15-year-old academy star Jobe Bellingham, brother of first-team hero Jude who departed to Dortmund.
The video was captioned The Stage Awaits, with the fine details of the kit itself features local brewery Sadler's Peaky Blinder and a triangular pattern.
The home strip is available to pre-order from Monday (August 17), with the website since crashing due to the demand placed on it, with the site reading: "This website is under heavy load. Please wait while we redirect you."
Blues, who signed a four-year deal with Nike, have already released their training range.
Back in February, when replying to a fan account of Liverpool FC on Twitter, Nike’s senior director of global communications, Heidi Burgett, confirmed that the template kits were being scrapped by the company ahead of the new season.
What is being offered to clubs, now, is a variety of options for different aspects of the kit, which will provide a unique look to what Blues have ran.
“We’re ditching the templates,” Burgett tweeted. “For the 2020 kits, Nike designers had 65 chassis options available to them across varying necklines, sleeves, cuffs, badge placement, etc.
“From hand-drawn prints to custom fonts, each team’s look will be its own.”


birminghammail--2020-08-15--'The promotion kit' - what Birmingham City fans are saying about the new shirt

Birmingham City fans have greeted the club 's new Nike kit with a mixed response after it was unveiled today .
The new Boyle Sports sponsored kits has a white collar and white sleeves and has a retro style .
As is always the case , some fans loved it , some were less keen .
Here 's what you have been saying in response to the unveiling : Cal : All you had to do was make the sleeves blue fellas Khalil Reid : Think I ’ ll just buy the new Ipswich kit instead I ’ d it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store James Cope : Better than last season .
It 'll grow on us this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's horrible , it 's worse than last seasons , and that was rubbish .
Jackamo199 : Personally I like the old school style Tro : I actually really like it .
Smart Josh Lando : On second look it actually looks decent LeeW1875 : Collars do not belong on football shirts ... .
Gary J Richards : Actually like it - improvement on last season !
Bluenose mucka : I personally like it and I ’ ll most likely buy it , if you don ’ t like it don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blues

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Birmingham City fans have greeted the club's new Nike kit with a mixed response after it was unveiled today.
The new Boyle Sports sponsored kits has a white collar and white sleeves and has a retro style.
As is always the case, some fans loved it, some were less keen.
Here's what you have been saying in response to the unveiling:
Cal: All you had to do was make the sleeves blue fellas
Khalil Reid: Think I’ll just buy the new Ipswich kit instead I’d it’s cheaper
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
Costas Marcou: the promotion kit
James Cope: Better than last season. It'll grow on us this one.
Neil J Murray: That's horrible, it's worse than last seasons, and that was rubbish.
Jackamo199: Personally I like the old school style
Tro: I actually really like it. Smart
Josh Lando: On second look it actually looks decent
Harper: Decent
Ellis: No
LeeW1875: Collars do not belong on football shirts....
Gary J Richards : Actually like it - improvement on last season!
Bluenose mucka : I personally like it and I’ll most likely buy it, if you don’t like it don’t buy it quite simple really up the blues


birminghammail--2020-08-15--Pub landlords in Birmingham face police crackdown as Covid cases rise in city

Rule-breaking pub landlords are facing a police crackdown for failing to properly record customers ' details as concerns grow about a rising Covid infection rate in Birmingham .
Birmingham has seen its Covid-19 infection rate increase from 13.8 to 28.1per 100,000 people after 321 new cases were recorded .
The latest infection rate figures for England cover the seven days up to August 11 .
The climbing rate has caused `` concern '' among health chiefs , placing Birmingham behind only Sandwell , which to date has been the worst-hit local authority area in the West Midlands .
Health bosses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decreasing while Birmingham 's is rising .
The focus is now on getting that increase under control , particularly as `` thousands of students '' will be returning to universities next month , city council leader Ian Ward said .
Clive Wright , a West Midlands regional convenor for the Department of Health and Social Care , said Birmingham 's infection rate rise `` right across the city '' was down to multiple factors .
He said : `` It looks as though it 's a combination of people socialising and not maintaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other gatherings of people and this may be the underlying problem . ''
Mr Wright said people could do their bit to protect one another by `` following the rules '' .
Find out how Covid-19 is affecting where you live by adding your postcode below : Councillor Ward added : `` We can not afford to drop our guard now . ''
He urged businesses to contact Public Health England ( PHE ) as soon as they identified either a confirmed or suspected case of Covid-19 among staff or customers .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to make sure the test and trace system was effective enough to `` keep on top of any outbreak '' .
But he also turned the spotlight on licensed premises , some of whom have been flouting a legal requirement to take names , addresses and contact details of customers , so they can be traced in the event of an outbreak .
He added : `` We are very keen to be working very closely with the police over coming weeks because what we 're noticing across the West Midlands is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in which pubs in particular are recording names and addresses of customers is dropping off in some locations .
`` We 'd like to encourage the police to re-emphasise to the pubs that they do need to be recording that information .
`` It is vital that if there is an outbreak they have the names and contact details of all of their customers . ''
Waheed Saleem , the West Midlands deputy police and crime commissioner , said pubs and bars needed to act `` in a responsible manner '' .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very clear responsibility to ensure they 're following the guidelines , that they are getting information on those individuals who attend .
`` We will work closely with the licensing authorities to crack down on those premises that do n't follow rules and are breaking rules .
`` These rules are there for everyone and they 're there for a reason .
`` The virus is still out there .
We must remember that , '' he added .
Mr Saleem also said the force was `` giving a very clear warning '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and those thinking of attending them .
`` We will not tolerate these gatherings , '' he said .
`` They are illegal and they pose a significant risk both to those who attend and also the people they care about . ''
The force had closed down 125 parties and raves since May this year , added Mr Saleem , receiving more than 3,000 calls about events in the same period .

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Rule-breaking pub landlords are facing a police crackdown for failing to properly record customers' details as concerns grow about a rising Covid infection rate in Birmingham.
Birmingham has seen its Covid-19 infection rate increase from 13.8 to 28.1per 100,000 people after 321 new cases were recorded.
The latest infection rate figures for England cover the seven days up to August 11.
(Image: PA)
The climbing rate has caused "concern" among health chiefs, placing Birmingham behind only Sandwell, which to date has been the worst-hit local authority area in the West Midlands.
Health bosses said the trend in Sandwell has been decreasing while Birmingham's is rising.
The focus is now on getting that increase under control, particularly as "thousands of students" will be returning to universities next month, city council leader Ian Ward said.
Clive Wright, a West Midlands regional convenor for the Department of Health and Social Care, said Birmingham's infection rate rise "right across the city" was down to multiple factors.
He said: "It looks as though it's a combination of people socialising and not maintaining social distancing and perhaps hospitality settings or other gatherings of people and this may be the underlying problem."
Mr Wright said people could do their bit to protect one another by "following the rules".
Find out how Covid-19 is affecting where you live by adding your postcode below:
Councillor Ward added: "We cannot afford to drop our guard now."
He urged businesses to contact Public Health England (PHE) as soon as they identified either a confirmed or suspected case of Covid-19 among staff or customers.
The council chief added it was the only way to make sure the test and trace system was effective enough to "keep on top of any outbreak".
But he also turned the spotlight on licensed premises, some of whom have been flouting a legal requirement to take names, addresses and contact details of customers, so they can be traced in the event of an outbreak.
He added: "We are very keen to be working very closely with the police over coming weeks because what we're noticing across the West Midlands is that as weeks go by the rigour in which pubs in particular are recording names and addresses of customers is dropping off in some locations.
"We'd like to encourage the police to re-emphasise to the pubs that they do need to be recording that information.
"It is vital that if there is an outbreak they have the names and contact details of all of their customers."
Waheed Saleem, the West Midlands deputy police and crime commissioner, said pubs and bars needed to act "in a responsible manner".
He added: "They also have a very clear responsibility to ensure they're following the guidelines, that they are getting information on those individuals who attend.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
"We will work closely with the licensing authorities to crack down on those premises that don't follow rules and are breaking rules.
"These rules are there for everyone and they're there for a reason.
"The virus is still out there. We must remember that," he added.
Mr Saleem also said the force was "giving a very clear warning" to organisers of illegal parties and raves, and those thinking of attending them.
"We will not tolerate these gatherings," he said. "They are illegal and they pose a significant risk both to those who attend and also the people they care about."
The force had closed down 125 parties and raves since May this year, added Mr Saleem, receiving more than 3,000 calls about events in the same period.


birminghammail--2020-08-15--The big-money transfers bubbling away at Aston Villa

Aston Villa 's Premier League squad will reconvene on Monday as Dean Smith will call an opening briefing prior to training at Bodymoor Heath .
Around 30 players - from the likes of forgotten man Scott Hogan to the youngsters - are expected to check-in next week as preparations begin .
A number of Villa 's players are set for showdown talks with Smith , chief executive Christian Purslow and new sporting director Johan Lange set to act upon their already agreed transfer plan .
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for Milot Rashica transfer updates Why should you sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a move for the Werder Bremen star , with fans excitedly awaiting his possible arrival .
With that in mind , we will bring you all the news around the Albanian winger 's future .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store The remit involves shipping out the likes of Hogan and Lovre Kalinic , tying down star man Jack Grealish and , more importantly , going in strong on transfer targets such as Ollie Watkins and Werder Bremen ace Milot Rashica .
Ahead of crunch transfer talks , BirminghamLive assesses where the land currently lies involving Villa 's most-important deals to be made : We 'll start with Smith 's No.1 target , Brentford goal machine Watkins .
The 26-goal hot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Greece and is n't expected back until Sunday into Monday .
Villa value the forward around the £18 million mark which is way off Brentford 's £25 million demand which would see Villa shatter the club-record fee they shelled out for Wesley 13 months ago .
Villa will look to meet in the middle between the two valuations as talks between the two clubs will begin properly from the middle of next week .
Staying with Brentford , Villa will come back in for the man they missed out on last year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has apparently cooled while it 's newly-promoted Leeds United who are looking to steal a march on a deal for the 25-year-old .
West Ham are also in for the Algerian , scorer of 17 goals last term .
As for Thomas Frank , he wants top-dollar for his prized asset with a fee in the region of £30 million demanded .
Opening bids are expected to start from £15 million , though , and Villa will ask the big Benrahma question during negotiations involving Watkins as they target a double swoop .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ week .
The Kosovan 's agent has declared how Villa are leading the race for Milot Rashica which , to some , is seen as a tactical ploy to make known-suitors RB Leipzig stump up more cash .
Rashica , though , who was left out of Werder Bremen 's squad for a friendly last week due to ongoing transfer discussions , is currently getting his head down in Austria with his Werder teammates as they gear up for a Bundesliga return .
Regarding Villa 's interest , they tabled offers for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , enquired again with Werder unwilling to sell given their sticky relegation situation .
Villa 's interest is genuine and it 's expected that sporting director Lange will head up trying to get this deal over the line given his contacts in Germany .
Werder want £25 million-plus - or as near to the €38 million release clause - for their electrifying No.7 with favourites Leipzig unwilling to meet their demands .
Emi Buendia - Norwich will hold out for £20 million-plus Smith 's long been admirer of Norwich play-maker Emi Buendia from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Argentine , 23 , would cost in excess of £20 million once again , though .
The Norwich man plays on the right-hands side of a forward prong , which is exactly what Villa need in terms of right-sided options .
Canaries chief Daniel Farke and Smith have a solid relationship and , from next week , it 's fully expected Villa will contact the German over the transfer of grabbing Buendia .
Given the attacker 's contract situation ( expires in 2024 ) , Villa will have to meet Norwich @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , has already been sounded out by Smith during early transfer discussions with Purslow .
Now arguably the biggest shock of the window , Villa are interested in Liverpool 's big-game impact player Divock Origi .
The Belgian is still seen as a squad player at Liverpool following his £11.3 million arrival back in 2014 .
The Premier League title winner managed just eight starts last term , with a further 26 appearances coming from off the bench .
Back to Villa 's interest and this one is of a loose interest knowing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move to play first-team football .
He 's a striker with a good goals-to-minutes ratio who 's yet to enter his peak years at the age of just 25 .
He 's a player who 's well accomplished playing the lone No.9 role Smith favours and Origi ticks a lot of boxes Smith wants in a striker .
Origi , though , remains a player who 'll be on a long list of targets with questions set to be asked regarding his availability and price .
The ex-Lille man would need some persuading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
Any other business : There 's no secret whatsoever that Smith will go hard on spending big in forward areas .
The head coach is pretty pleased with his defensive options , but could look at getting in another full-back to provide competition .
Villa are tracking £15 million valued Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest , a young player ( 23 ) who can also play in another position that needs bolstering : central midfield .
Smith would like to sign an accomplished No.8 , too , with touted options being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Campana .
Smith , though , will n doubt have plenty of targets in this position up his sleeve .
In short , Villa 's shopping list is likely to to be as follows : A proven striker , two dangerous wingers , an accomplished No.8 and possibly a young , emerging full-back .

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Aston Villa's Premier League squad will reconvene on Monday as Dean Smith will call an opening briefing prior to training at Bodymoor Heath.
Around 30 players - from the likes of forgotten man Scott Hogan to the youngsters - are expected to check-in next week as preparations begin.
A number of Villa's players are set for showdown talks with Smith, chief executive Christian Purslow and new sporting director Johan Lange set to act upon their already agreed transfer plan.
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for Morgan Sanson transfer updates Why should you sign up? Villa have been strongly linked with a move for the Marseille star, with fans excitedly awaiting his possible arrival. With that in mind, we will bring you all the news around the French midfielder's future. In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
The remit involves shipping out the likes of Hogan and Lovre Kalinic, tying down star man Jack Grealish and, more importantly, going in strong on transfer targets such as Ollie Watkins and Werder Bremen ace Milot Rashica.
Ahead of crunch transfer talks, BirminghamLive assesses where the land currently lies involving Villa's most-important deals to be made:
Ollie Watkins - Brentford want £25 million
We'll start with Smith's No.1 target, Brentford goal machine Watkins. The 26-goal hot shot is currently enjoying some downtime out in Greece and isn't expected back until Sunday into Monday.
Villa value the forward around the £18 million mark which is way off Brentford's £25 million demand which would see Villa shatter the club-record fee they shelled out for Wesley 13 months ago.
Villa will look to meet in the middle between the two valuations as talks between the two clubs will begin properly from the middle of next week.
Said Benrahma - Brentford demanding £30 million
(Image: John Walton/PA Wire)
Staying with Brentford, Villa will come back in for the man they missed out on last year: Said Benrahma. Chelsea's interest has apparently cooled while it's newly-promoted Leeds United who are looking to steal a march on a deal for the 25-year-old. West Ham are also in for the Algerian, scorer of 17 goals last term.
As for Thomas Frank, he wants top-dollar for his prized asset with a fee in the region of £30 million demanded. Opening bids are expected to start from £15 million, though, and Villa will ask the big Benrahma question during negotiations involving Watkins as they target a double swoop. Benrahma is due back in training next week.
Milot Rashica - Werder Bremen want close to €38 million release clause
The Kosovan's agent has declared how Villa are leading the race for Milot Rashica which, to some, is seen as a tactical ploy to make known-suitors RB Leipzig stump up more cash. Rashica, though, who was left out of Werder Bremen's squad for a friendly last week due to ongoing transfer discussions, is currently getting his head down in Austria with his Werder teammates as they gear up for a Bundesliga return.
Regarding Villa's interest, they tabled offers for the left-winger last summer while, in January, enquired again with Werder unwilling to sell given their sticky relegation situation.
Villa's interest is genuine and it's expected that sporting director Lange will head up trying to get this deal over the line given his contacts in Germany. Werder want £25 million-plus - or as near to the €38 million release clause - for their electrifying No.7 with favourites Leipzig unwilling to meet their demands.
Emi Buendia - Norwich will hold out for £20 million-plus
(Image: Stephen Pond/Getty Images)
Smith's long been admirer of Norwich play-maker Emi Buendia from his days managing Brentford in the Championship. The Argentine, 23, would cost in excess of £20 million once again, though. The Norwich man plays on the right-hands side of a forward prong, which is exactly what Villa need in terms of right-sided options.
Canaries chief Daniel Farke and Smith have a solid relationship and, from next week, it's fully expected Villa will contact the German over the transfer of grabbing Buendia. Given the attacker's contract situation (expires in 2024), Villa will have to meet Norwich's high demands. Buendia, though, has already been sounded out by Smith during early transfer discussions with Purslow.
Divock Origi - Belgian would fetch £25 million-plus from Liverpool
Now arguably the biggest shock of the window, Villa are interested in Liverpool's big-game impact player Divock Origi. The Belgian is still seen as a squad player at Liverpool following his £11.3 million arrival back in 2014. The Premier League title winner managed just eight starts last term, with a further 26 appearances coming from off the bench.
Back to Villa's interest and this one is of a loose interest knowing Origi could perhaps want to secure a move to play first-team football. He's a striker with a good goals-to-minutes ratio who's yet to enter his peak years at the age of just 25. He's a player who's well accomplished playing the lone No.9 role Smith favours and Origi ticks a lot of boxes Smith wants in a striker. Origi, though, remains a player who'll be on a long list of targets with questions set to be asked regarding his availability and price. The ex-Lille man would need some persuading to swap Anfield for Villa Park, too.
Any other business : There's no secret whatsoever that Smith will go hard on spending big in forward areas. The head coach is pretty pleased with his defensive options, but could look at getting in another full-back to provide competition. Villa are tracking £15 million valued Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest, a young player (23) who can also play in another position that needs bolstering: central midfield. Smith would like to sign an accomplished No.8, too, with touted options being Palace's James McCarthy and Spaniard Jose Campana. Smith, though, will n doubt have plenty of targets in this position up his sleeve. In short, Villa's shopping list is likely to to be as follows: A proven striker, two dangerous wingers, an accomplished No.8 and possibly a young, emerging full-back.


birminghammail--2020-08-16--Wine and spirit bottles and corks - litter left after illegal rave

What do people drink at an illegal rave held on a city car park in the middle of a global pandemic ?
The answer , judging by the litter left behind on Hampton Street overnight , is Hennessy spirits and 'true French luxury ' wines by Luc Belaire too .
The party was attended by a police superintendent celebrating his 25th anniversary with the force - but he was n't interested in joining in the 'fun ' .
Supt Jack Hadley tweeted : `` It is our intention to prosecute organisers of last night 's events .
`` All DJ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apply for it to be forfeited at court .
`` That is how we will prevent more of these events in the future . ''
Responding to questions posted on social media about whether West Midlands Police strategies towards such raves were working , Supt Hadley added : `` Everything has to be done proportionately , we would always prefer to encourage and educate first .
`` If people still do n't listen and learn , then we will enforce .
`` Surely that is better than going straight to enforcement ... .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ state ! ''
West Midlands Police used footage from a drone to clear the 200-strong group of `` selfish '' people from the scene , which is just a few minutes ' walk from St Chad 's Cathedral and Snow Hill offices .
Last weekend `` Operation Reliant '' shut down 125 parties and raves .
West Midlands Police today said it would not comment further until tomorrow about how many operations it has undertaken this weekend and what the consequences of those actions are .
After waking up from the party the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an ironic message about a special anniversary in his life .
`` 25 years with @ WMPolice today ... .how do I celebrate ?
By working until 4am breaking up illegal raves , then being back in on lates to do it all again . ''
The early morning scene at Hampton Street was of a 'bomb site ' car park strewn with litter .
There were cans of Red Bull , a bottle of Lucozade and corks .
In corner there were boxes Hennessy and Luc Belaire labels .
Police tweeted overnight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic and also about the environmental consequences of the rave .
Supt Jack Hadley said : `` ... People are flaunting covid regulations and causing significant disruption to the communities around them .
`` Such selfish behaviours will not be tolerated .
`` Our @ WMPdrone is gathering evidence to allow us to prosecute the organiser of this illegal music event .
`` A huge amount of rubbish has been left at this illegal music event in Hampton Street .
`` Complete and utter disregard for other people who may need to use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last weekend saw West Midlands Police shutting down 125 parties and raves it said : `` We disrupted scores of groups who ignored restrictions and increased the risk of spreading the potentially deadly CoVID-19 virus .
Chief Superintendent Claire Bell said : `` We remain in a pandemic and reckless gatherings such as parties and unlicensed music events only increase the risk of spreading the virus .
`` You could be putting the lives of your family and friends at risk .
`` Such gatherings are not only illegal , they are a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk .
We have resources in place to shut these events down . ''
Birmingham 's coronavirus rate has reportedly doubled this week as people `` flout rules . ''
Birmingham City Council warned members of the public : `` We can not afford to drop our guard '' re the rise in the weekly number of coranavirus cases .
They have risen by 321 to more than double the previous rate .
It is now at 28.1 per 100,000 people , up from 13.8 per 100,000 .
The rate was 12 at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection rate figures for England cover the seven days up to August 11 .
Northampton has recorded the highest rate of new coronavirus infections in England this week , with 260 fresh cases .
This increase means the town 's infection rate now stands at around 115.8 per 100,000 people - up from 34.7 last week .
Northampton now faces entering a local lockdown like Leicester , it has been reported .

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What do people drink at an illegal rave held on a city car park in the middle of a global pandemic?
The answer, judging by the litter left behind on Hampton Street overnight, is Hennessy spirits and 'true French luxury' wines by Luc Belaire too.
The party was attended by a police superintendent celebrating his 25th anniversary with the force - but he wasn't interested in joining in the 'fun'.
Supt Jack Hadley tweeted: "It is our intention to prosecute organisers of last night's events.
"All DJ equipment was also seized and we will apply for it to be forfeited at court.
"That is how we will prevent more of these events in the future."
(Image: Nick Wilkinson / BirminghamLive)
Responding to questions posted on social media about whether West Midlands Police strategies towards such raves were working, Supt Hadley added: "Everything has to be done proportionately, we would always prefer to encourage and educate first.
"If people still don't listen and learn, then we will enforce.
"Surely that is better than going straight to enforcement.... we don't live in a police state!"
(Image: West Midlands Police)
West Midlands Police used footage from a drone to clear the 200-strong group of "selfish" people from the scene, which is just a few minutes' walk from St Chad's Cathedral and Snow Hill offices.
Last weekend "Operation Reliant" shut down 125 parties and raves.
West Midlands Police today said it would not comment further until tomorrow about how many operations it has undertaken this weekend and what the consequences of those actions are.
After waking up from the party the night before, Supt Jack Hadley tweeted an ironic message about a special anniversary in his life.
"25 years with @WMPolice today....how do I celebrate? By working until 4am breaking up illegal raves, then being back in on lates to do it all again."
Rubbish left behind at rave
The early morning scene at Hampton Street was of a 'bomb site' car park strewn with litter.
Items included cigarette stubs, paper plates, plastic cups and foil trays.
There were cans of Red Bull, a bottle of Lucozade and corks.
In corner there were boxes Hennessy and Luc Belaire labels.
(Image: Nick Wilkinson / BirminghamLive)
Police tweeted overnight about the risk to health in a pandemic and also about the environmental consequences of the rave.
Supt Jack Hadley said: "... People are flaunting covid regulations and causing significant disruption to the communities around them.
"Such selfish behaviours will not be tolerated.
"Our @WMPdrone is gathering evidence to allow us to prosecute the organiser of this illegal music event.
"A huge amount of rubbish has been left at this illegal music event in Hampton Street.
"Complete and utter disregard for other people who may need to use this car park tomorrow!"
(Image: Nick Wilkinson / BirminghamLive)
After last weekend saw West Midlands Police shutting down 125 parties and raves it said: "We disrupted scores of groups who ignored restrictions and increased the risk of spreading the potentially deadly CoVID-19 virus.
Chief Superintendent Claire Bell said: "We remain in a pandemic and reckless gatherings such as parties and unlicensed music events only increase the risk of spreading the virus.
"You could be putting the lives of your family and friends at risk.
"Such gatherings are not only illegal, they are a nuisance to others and a public health risk. We have resources in place to shut these events down."
(Image: Nick Wilkinson / BirminghamLive)
Coronavirus challenge
Birmingham's coronavirus rate has reportedly doubled this week as people "flout rules."
Birmingham City Council warned members of the public: "We cannot afford to drop our guard" re the rise in the weekly number of coranavirus cases.
They have risen by 321 to more than double the previous rate.
It is now at 28.1 per 100,000 people, up from 13.8 per 100,000.
(Image: West Midlands Police)
The rate was 12 at the start of August.
The latest infection rate figures for England cover the seven days up to August 11.
Northampton has recorded the highest rate of new coronavirus infections in England this week, with 260 fresh cases.
This increase means the town's infection rate now stands at around 115.8 per 100,000 people - up from 34.7 last week.
Northampton now faces entering a local lockdown like Leicester, it has been reported.