birminghammail--2020-01-30--Tragic nurse Julie O'Connor's widower calls for inquiry after her cancer was missed

The widower of a nurse who died from cervical cancer after she was wrongly told by doctors a smear test and biopsy were normal has called for an inquiry into other potential victims .
Kevin O'Connor , 50 , said he believed more women could have developed cancer after suffering the same level of care as his wife Julie .
The 49-year-old mother of two died in February last year after being given the all-clear from a smear test and a later biopsy .
Mr O'Connor , who works for the Civil Aviation Authority , spoke out after Avon Coroner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concluded she died from `` natural causes contributed to by neglect '' .
`` We are satisfied with the conclusion of neglect by the coroner .
`` We hope this will go a long way to help and protect other women in the future , '' said Mr O'Connor , from Thornbury , South Gloucestershire .
`` For Julie this was never about blame .
`` Julie strived in her final years to give women the confidence to question the professionals .
`` We hope that by the actions and recommendations barriers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all women .
`` We want to ensure we have a safe cervical screening and gynaecological service . ''
Mr O'Connor said he believed his wife was not the only victim and added : `` We need to have a wider review now and consider other victims .
`` In order to go forward we put safeguards and barriers in place , but to do so we do need to look backwards and consider whether there are other victims out there . ''
The inquest heard Mrs O'Connor repeatedly went to see her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gynaecological problems and was referred three times , twice under the two-week cancer pathway , to Southmead Hospital in Bristol for further tests .
Doctors told Mrs O'Connor in October 2015 that an endometrial biopsy was negative and the hospital had also provided a `` false positive '' result to a routine smear test carried out the previous year .
Avon Coroner 's Court heard that by August 2016 Mrs O'Connor had returned to her GP with the same symptoms and was referred back to Southmead questioning cervical cancer and the nurse was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cervix `` looked normal '' .
By November she was still unwell and her GP made a third referral to the specialists who saw her in February 2017 .
She was due to undergo further tests at Southmead the following month but decided to instead to see a consultant at a private hospital who immediately suspected cervical cancer .
Further tests showed the cancer had spread and she underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy .
She died in a hospice less than 12 months after the cancer was confirmed .
Addressing the court , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failures that could have caused or contributed to Mrs O'Connor 's death .
`` Firstly , the failure to report the smear test accurately in September 2014 ; secondly , the failure to report the endometrial biopsy accurately in October 2015 ; thirdly , the failure to recognise the clinically obvious cancer of the cervix or a failure to recognise the need of further assessment in August 2016 ; and fourthly , the failure to recognise the clinically obvious cancer of the cervix or a failure to recognise the need of further assessment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that based on the evidence I have heard the failure to report the smear test accurately was a gross failure and the further assessments in both August and November 2016 were also gross failures . ''
Mrs Voisin said she would also be writing to the Department of Health and Social Care , as well as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists , with her findings .
Tim Whittlestone , of the North Bristol NHS Trust , apologised to Mrs O'Connor 's family for the errors made in her care .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to her family and friends for the distress we caused them , '' he said .
`` I would like to reaffirm that North Bristol NHS Trust investigates mistakes and does learn from those mistakes .
`` I would like to reassure patients that as a direct result of Julie we have improved the way we examine patients and indeed in our ability to diagnose cervical cancer . ''

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The widower of a nurse who died from cervical cancer after she was wrongly told by doctors a smear test and biopsy were normal has called for an inquiry into other potential victims.
Kevin O'Connor, 50, said he believed more women could have developed cancer after suffering the same level of care as his wife Julie.
The 49-year-old mother of two died in February last year after being given the all-clear from a smear test and a later biopsy.
Mr O'Connor, who works for the Civil Aviation Authority, spoke out after Avon Coroner Maria Voisin highlighted three gross failings and concluded she died from "natural causes contributed to by neglect".
"We are satisfied with the conclusion of neglect by the coroner.
"We hope this will go a long way to help and protect other women in the future," said Mr O'Connor, from Thornbury, South Gloucestershire.
(Image: FACEBOOK)
"For Julie this was never about blame.
"Julie strived in her final years to give women the confidence to question the professionals.
"We hope that by the actions and recommendations barriers and safeguards are put in place to protect all women.
"Cervical screening does save lives.
"We want to ensure we have a safe cervical screening and gynaecological service."
Mr O'Connor said he believed his wife was not the only victim and added: "We need to have a wider review now and consider other victims.
"In order to go forward we put safeguards and barriers in place, but to do so we do need to look backwards and consider whether there are other victims out there."
The inquest heard Mrs O'Connor repeatedly went to see her GP over a 14-month period complaining of gynaecological problems and was referred three times, twice under the two-week cancer pathway, to Southmead Hospital in Bristol for further tests.
Doctors told Mrs O'Connor in October 2015 that an endometrial biopsy was negative and the hospital had also provided a "false positive" result to a routine smear test carried out the previous year.
(Image: FACEBOOK/Kevin OConnor)
Avon Coroner's Court heard that by August 2016 Mrs O'Connor had returned to her GP with the same symptoms and was referred back to Southmead questioning cervical cancer and the nurse was seen within two weeks but told her cervix "looked normal".
By November she was still unwell and her GP made a third referral to the specialists who saw her in February 2017.
She was due to undergo further tests at Southmead the following month but decided to instead to see a consultant at a private hospital who immediately suspected cervical cancer.
Further tests showed the cancer had spread and she underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
She died in a hospice less than 12 months after the cancer was confirmed.
Addressing the court, the coroner said she had focused on the failures that could have caused or contributed to Mrs O'Connor's death.
"Firstly, the failure to report the smear test accurately in September 2014; secondly, the failure to report the endometrial biopsy accurately in October 2015; thirdly, the failure to recognise the clinically obvious cancer of the cervix or a failure to recognise the need of further assessment in August 2016; and fourthly, the failure to recognise the clinically obvious cancer of the cervix or a failure to recognise the need of further assessment in November 2016.
"I consider that based on the evidence I have heard the failure to report the smear test accurately was a gross failure and the further assessments in both August and November 2016 were also gross failures."
Mrs Voisin said she would also be writing to the Department of Health and Social Care, as well as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, with her findings.
Tim Whittlestone, of the North Bristol NHS Trust, apologised to Mrs O'Connor's family for the errors made in her care.
"Furthermore, we are so very sorry to her family and friends for the distress we caused them," he said.
"I would like to reaffirm that North Bristol NHS Trust investigates mistakes and does learn from those mistakes.
"I would like to reassure patients that as a direct result of Julie we have improved the way we examine patients and indeed in our ability to diagnose cervical cancer."


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Manchester United provide fresh transfer update amid link to Aston Villa target

Manchester United are unlikely to complete any more business on transfer deadline day amid links to Aston Villa target Islam Slimani .
Villa are hoping to tie up a deal for a new striker before the 11pm deadline and Slimani is a player of interest .
The Leicester City forward , who is currently on loan at French side Monaco , has also reportedly caught the eye of United in recent days .
Slimani has scored seven goals in Ligue 1 so far this season and chipped in with the same number of assists .
But manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signings at Old Trafford before the window shuts , with Bruno Fernandes from Sporting likely to be the only arrival this month .
`` I do n't think we will do anymore business , no .
I do n't think so , '' Solskjaer said on Friday morning .
United made a bid to bring Bournemouth striker Josh King back to the club today but that was rejected by Eddie Howe 's side .
`` January has always been difficult , and it is not just something you do like that , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously admitted a Premier League loan move for Slimani would be difficult because there is no recall clause in the season-long agreement with Monaco .
Villa manager Dean Smith said on Thursday of the club 's efforts to recruit another forward to provide support for Mwbana Samatta and Keinan Davis : `` I 'm very calm .
I 'm fortunate , I worked at Brentford where I had two sporting directors dealing with most of it , and I 'm fortunate here that I 've Suso and Christian ( Purslow ) dealing with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dip in and out with my views on things , but I 'm pretty much being left to concentrate on the team putting in a performance at Bournemouth . ''

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Manchester United are unlikely to complete any more business on transfer deadline day amid links to Aston Villa target Islam Slimani.
Villa are hoping to tie up a deal for a new striker before the 11pm deadline and Slimani is a player of interest.
The Leicester City forward, who is currently on loan at French side Monaco, has also reportedly caught the eye of United in recent days.
Slimani has scored seven goals in Ligue 1 so far this season and chipped in with the same number of assists.
(Image: Anne-Christine Poujoulat/AFP/Getty Images)
But manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he does not expect any more signings at Old Trafford before the window shuts, with Bruno Fernandes from Sporting likely to be the only arrival this month.
"I don't think we will do anymore business, no. I don't think so," Solskjaer said on Friday morning.
United made a bid to bring Bournemouth striker Josh King back to the club today but that was rejected by Eddie Howe's side. "January has always been difficult, and it is not just something you do like that," Solskjaer added.
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers previously admitted a Premier League loan move for Slimani would be difficult because there is no recall clause in the season-long agreement with Monaco.
Villa manager Dean Smith said on Thursday of the club's efforts to recruit another forward to provide support for Mwbana Samatta and Keinan Davis: "I'm very calm. I'm fortunate, I worked at Brentford where I had two sporting directors dealing with most of it, and I'm fortunate here that I've Suso and Christian (Purslow) dealing with it as well.
"I can dip in and out with my views on things, but I'm pretty much being left to concentrate on the team putting in a performance at Bournemouth."


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Three Birmingham City University workers evacuated from Wuhan on UK rescue flight

Three Birmingham City University staff are on board the UK evacuation flight from the Chinese city of Wuhan , the epicentre of the coronavirus .
The BCU employees , consisting of Yvonne Griffiths , Maeve Clark and one other unnamed worker , are on board the Spanish-owned Wamos Air jet , which is scheduled to touch down at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire at lunchtime on Friday .
They are among 83 British nationals who will then be taken to Arrow Park Hospital , Wirral , for a period of quarantine .
The aircraft will then depart for Spain where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will disembark .
The BBC reports that the BCU trio were taken to Wuhan airport by colleagues in China that had been supporting them .
Some Britons have said they have been left behind in Wuhan after not being given enough time to make the evacuation flight back to the UK because the city is in `` virtual lockdown '' with little public transport .
It is understood that the FCO sent consular cars and issued special travel permits to get people through road blocks in the locked down city .
British father @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programme that the car had arrived to late to get him , his wife and one-month-old son to the airport on time .
He said his Chinese wife had even tried calling the police to see if they could help get them there on time .
Some Britons had declined to join the repatriation flight after being told any Chinese nationals in their family would be unable to join .
Families had been told that relatives with Chinese passports would be unable to join them after Chinese officials denied them permission to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours before the plane was due to depart , but some people said they did not have time to get to the airport .

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Three Birmingham City University staff are on board the UK evacuation flight from the Chinese city of Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus.
The BCU employees, consisting of Yvonne Griffiths, Maeve Clark and one other unnamed worker, are on board the Spanish-owned Wamos Air jet, which is scheduled to touch down at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire at lunchtime on Friday.
They are among 83 British nationals who will then be taken to Arrow Park Hospital, Wirral, for a period of quarantine. The aircraft will then depart for Spain where 27 other passengers on board the jet will disembark.
The BBC reports that the BCU trio were taken to Wuhan airport by colleagues in China that had been supporting them.
(Image: Peter Byrne/PA Wire)
Some Britons have said they have been left behind in Wuhan after not being given enough time to make the evacuation flight back to the UK because the city is in "virtual lockdown" with little public transport.
It is understood that the FCO sent consular cars and issued special travel permits to get people through road blocks in the locked down city.
British father Adam Bridgeman told the BBC's Today programme that the car had arrived to late to get him, his wife and one-month-old son to the airport on time.
He said his Chinese wife had even tried calling the police to see if they could help get them there on time.
Some Britons had declined to join the repatriation flight after being told any Chinese nationals in their family would be unable to join.
Families had been told that relatives with Chinese passports would be unable to join them after Chinese officials denied them permission to leave the country.
That decision was reversed hours before the plane was due to depart, but some people said they did not have time to get to the airport.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Stark 'Brexit Day' warning to EU people living in Birmingham

Thousands of EU migrants in the West Midlands have been told they face deportation if they fail to sign up to an initiative allowing them to continue to live in the UK .
The stark pre- '' Brexit Day '' warning came from organisations such as the Refuge and Migrant Centre and Migrant Help who are working to help people sign up to the EU Settlement Scheme , aimed at guaranteeing their rights .
Representatives said there was a high number of EU nationals living in Birmingham , the Black Country and beyond who had yet to apply .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pop-up event , organised by the Polish Expats Association and the Home Office held at Six Ways Baptist Church in Erdington .
And residents said the event had helped allay concerns as they received advice and help to fill out their applications .
Weronika Cybulska , aged 18 , who works at Primark , said : `` I came here for my letter to allow me to be in England , which is a bit ridiculous to be fair .
But if it has to be done , it has to be done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so long and I am enjoying being here .
I 've made a lot of friends , I have a boyfriend and I 've got a good job for my age .
I 'm earning my money and I 've finished school and am happy .
`` If we did n't have the choice that allows us to stay in the country , I would be concerned .
I would n't want to go back to Poland because I 'm happy here now .
`` I 'd be devastated if I had to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so long .
This is our home .
`` This event is so important to help people know what to do .
It does n't take a long time and it is free which is really good . ''
Her brother-in-law Sebastian Byszewski submitted his application seven months ago but was now helping his two children secure their status .
He said : `` I 've here since 2004 .
When we go to Poland we go for two weeks but we want to come back after one !
We have our life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for my company as a forklift driver for 10 years .
I 'm trying to open my own painting and decorating company .
I came over to work hard and get a good future for my family . ''
Kaja Parczewska , who came over to the UK from Poland in 2007 , said : `` I wanted to make an application for myself and did n't know there would be help like this .
I came with a different view but this has been very nice .
`` Things are a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do what I need to do .
`` I lived here a long time so I do n't have any concerns about my future but if I had lived here less than five years then I would have been worried that maybe I 'd have to go back to Poland . ''
Online sales worker Andzelika Obierek has been in Birmingham for five years and her four-year-old son Nathan was born here .
She said : `` I do n't have any concerns .
I liked this process , it straight forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is someone here to help .
`` It 's really good if you do n't know English . ''
Financial advisor Ernest Magdon , from Poland , submitted his application months ago but was now helping friends get the information they needed .
He said : `` One lady did n't even have a clue how to apply so this has really helped her out while my other friend is a single mother , who also did n't know what she had to do .
`` They had some information but they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be .
`` But we have no concerns .
I 'm a financial advisor , so it is my job to know what 's going on ! ''
Joe Roberts , who is the EU Settlement Scheme project lead at the Refuge and Migrant Centre , which operates in Birmingham and the Black Country , said there were fears that many EU nationals were unaware of what they needed to do .
He said : `` I think there has been an understatement for how much support is needed for the applications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite as simple as has been suggested .
`` You have people simultaneously not concerned about their future because they 've lived in the UK legally as EU citizens for many years .
`` But also services seem to be cottoning on to the fact that these people actually need to prove their status in the UK .
`` We are seeing a lot of people losing their right to access benefits , lot of people having difficulty accessing services or renting properties , getting employment , getting student finance .
`` They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the difficulty in applying for this scheme .
That 's where the more concerning issues are .
`` People will lose their right to live in the UK and do everything they currently have the right to do .
It is really important everyone applies as soon as they can and gets advice if they ca n't do it themselves .
`` Considering we leave the EU tomorrow and the end of the transition period will be the end of the year , the general level of people who have applied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If anyone is missing out on it , it 's going to be a real problem for those people .
There are more than three million EU citizens living in the UK so even five per cent of that is a hell of a lot to be missing out on this application scheme .
`` One of the problems is everyone is trying so hard not to paint that dark picture that an ugly thing is happening .
`` But , actually , it is quite an ugly thing that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aware of the seriousness and gravity of what 's happening .
`` They will lose their right to live and work here and yes , maybe they will be liable to removal and be asked to leave and return to the countries they 've come from .
`` Our message to them is 'seek help and make sure you 've applied ' . ''
Jama Hussein , EU outreach and engagement adviser for Migrant Help 's West Midlands team , said there were between 6,000-7,000 Somalians who had n't made use of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office officials , they say the Somali community has n't applied as much as they should have and knowing there is a high percentage of Somali Dutch nationals , also from Sweden and from Finland .
`` So we are trying to help them , trying to put them at ease and getting a lot of calls from people who are all panicking .
`` They are concerned about losing their status , possibly being deported , losing out on benefits , being in a place where they have spent 15 years of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They are upset about it .
It 's a scary time for them . ''

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Thousands of EU migrants in the West Midlands have been told they face deportation if they fail to sign up to an initiative allowing them to continue to live in the UK.
The stark pre-"Brexit Day" warning came from organisations such as the Refuge and Migrant Centre and Migrant Help who are working to help people sign up to the EU Settlement Scheme, aimed at guaranteeing their rights.
Representatives said there was a high number of EU nationals living in Birmingham, the Black Country and beyond who had yet to apply.
They were speaking at an EU Settlement Scheme pop-up event, organised by the Polish Expats Association and the Home Office held at Six Ways Baptist Church in Erdington.
And residents said the event had helped allay concerns as they received advice and help to fill out their applications.
Weronika Cybulska, aged 18, who works at Primark, said: "I came here for my letter to allow me to be in England, which is a bit ridiculous to be fair. But if it has to be done, it has to be done.
"I've been here for so long and I am enjoying being here. I've made a lot of friends, I have a boyfriend and I've got a good job for my age. I'm earning my money and I've finished school and am happy.
"If we didn't have the choice that allows us to stay in the country, I would be concerned. I wouldn't want to go back to Poland because I'm happy here now.
"I'd be devastated if I had to go back because we have been here so long. This is our home.
"This event is so important to help people know what to do. It doesn't take a long time and it is free which is really good."
Her brother-in-law Sebastian Byszewski submitted his application seven months ago but was now helping his two children secure their status.
He said: "I've here since 2004. When we go to Poland we go for two weeks but we want to come back after one! We have our life here now.
"I've worked for my company as a forklift driver for 10 years. I'm trying to open my own painting and decorating company. I came over to work hard and get a good future for my family."
Kaja Parczewska, who came over to the UK from Poland in 2007, said: "I wanted to make an application for myself and didn't know there would be help like this. I came with a different view but this has been very nice.
"Things are a lot clearer now. People have helped me to do what I need to do.
"I lived here a long time so I don't have any concerns about my future but if I had lived here less than five years then I would have been worried that maybe I'd have to go back to Poland."
Online sales worker Andzelika Obierek has been in Birmingham for five years and her four-year-old son Nathan was born here.
She said: "I don't have any concerns. I liked this process, it straight forward and it's an awesome initiative that there is someone here to help.
"It's really good if you don't know English."
Financial advisor Ernest Magdon, from Poland, submitted his application months ago but was now helping friends get the information they needed.
He said: "One lady didn't even have a clue how to apply so this has really helped her out while my other friend is a single mother, who also didn't know what she had to do.
"They had some information but they weren't as informed as they needed to be.
"But we have no concerns. I'm a financial advisor, so it is my job to know what's going on!"
Joe Roberts, who is the EU Settlement Scheme project lead at the Refuge and Migrant Centre, which operates in Birmingham and the Black Country, said there were fears that many EU nationals were unaware of what they needed to do.
He said: "I think there has been an understatement for how much support is needed for the applications to be done and it is not quite as simple as has been suggested.
"You have people simultaneously not concerned about their future because they've lived in the UK legally as EU citizens for many years.
"But also services seem to be cottoning on to the fact that these people actually need to prove their status in the UK.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"We are seeing a lot of people losing their right to access benefits, lot of people having difficulty accessing services or renting properties, getting employment, getting student finance.
"They are having really difficulty getting those things because of the difficulty in applying for this scheme. That's where the more concerning issues are.
"People will lose their right to live in the UK and do everything they currently have the right to do. It is really important everyone applies as soon as they can and gets advice if they can't do it themselves.
"Considering we leave the EU tomorrow and the end of the transition period will be the end of the year, the general level of people who have applied is not as high as was hoped.
"If anyone is missing out on it, it's going to be a real problem for those people. There are more than three million EU citizens living in the UK so even five per cent of that is a hell of a lot to be missing out on this application scheme.
"One of the problems is everyone is trying so hard not to paint that dark picture that an ugly thing is happening.
"But, actually, it is quite an ugly thing that is happening and people need to be made aware of the seriousness and gravity of what's happening.
"They will lose their right to live and work here and yes, maybe they will be liable to removal and be asked to leave and return to the countries they've come from.
"Our message to them is 'seek help and make sure you've applied'."
Jama Hussein, EU outreach and engagement adviser for Migrant Help's West Midlands team, said there were between 6,000-7,000 Somalians who hadn't made use of the scheme.
Speaking to a few Home Office officials, they say the Somali community hasn't applied as much as they should have and knowing there is a high percentage of Somali Dutch nationals, also from Sweden and from Finland.
"So we are trying to help them, trying to put them at ease and getting a lot of calls from people who are all panicking.
"They are concerned about losing their status, possibly being deported, losing out on benefits, being in a place where they have spent 15 years of their lives and being told to leave. They are upset about it. It's a scary time for them."


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Wolves boss Nuno confirms this transfer deadline day deal

Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed that Ryan Bennett is set to leave Wolverhampton Wanderers before tonight 's transfer deadline .
@ @ @ @ @ closing in on a loan move to Premier League rivals Leicester City .
It is @ @ @ @ @ is on his way to Leicester for a medical .
There is also a suggestion @ @ @ @ @ an option for the move to be made permanent in the summer .
Speaking to @ @ @ @ @ coach Nuno thanked the 29-year-old for his services and wished him all the best as @ @ @ @ @ I appreciate and thank Ryan Bennett for what he 's done , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ was amazing .
`` But he goes on loan to a situation that he wants @ @ @ @ @ all the best . ''
Asked if he would bring in another central defender before @ @ @ @ @ 11pm this evening , Nuno replied : `` No , we have enough players that @ @ @ @ @ . ''

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Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed that Ryan Bennett is set to leave Wolverhampton Wanderers before tonight's transfer deadline.
Bennett is understood to be closing in on a loan move to Premier League rivals Leicester City.
It is being reported that the defender is on his way to Leicester for a medical.
There is also a suggestion that the deal will include an option for the move to be made permanent in the summer.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Wolves head coach Nuno thanked the 29-year-old for his services and wished him all the best as his new club.
"I appreciate and thank Ryan Bennett for what he's done," he said. "I think it was amazing.
"But he goes on loan to a situation that he wants, and I wish him all the best."
Asked if he would bring in another central defender before the transfer window closes at 11pm this evening, Nuno replied: "No, we have enough players that can play in that position."


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Martin Lewis issues final Brexit warning to every single Brit on Good Morning Britain as UK leaves E

Martin Lewis issues final Brexit warning to every single Brit on Good Morning Britain as UK leaves EU

Friday marks Brexit Day - with the United Kingdom finally set to leave the European Union after years of prolonged talks , debate and frustration .
Martin Lewis has marked January 31 by appearing on Good Morning Britain , where he has issued some key advice to Brits .
The MoneySavingExpert founder , who is renowned for his handy financial tricks , tips and hacks , has his own ITV1 show .
He has stints on GMB as well as Lorraine , This Morning and The Martin Lewis Money Show .
Taking to the show today , the financial guru @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU and while it ’ s a big political day , it ’ s not a big practical day for UK consumers . ''
He added : `` Whether it 's mortgages , savings , travel rights or more , all are simply moved to the new transitional rules - designed to provide unchanged continuity .
`` In other words , today 's rules will still stand on Saturday .
`` The key change will be when the transition finishes at the year 's end . ''
He concluded : `` What happens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as it depends solely on if and what deal we get with the EU .
`` Of course , meantime as always there will be exchange rate and market fluctuations depending how various deal announcement updates are viewed . ''

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Friday marks Brexit Day - with the United Kingdom finally set to leave the European Union after years of prolonged talks, debate and frustration.
Martin Lewis has marked January 31 by appearing on Good Morning Britain, where he has issued some key advice to Brits.
The MoneySavingExpert founder, who is renowned for his handy financial tricks, tips and hacks, has his own ITV1 show.
He has stints on GMB as well as Lorraine, This Morning and The Martin Lewis Money Show.
Taking to the show today, the financial guru said: "We formally leave the EU and while it’s a big political day, it’s not a big practical day for UK consumers."
He added: "Whether it's mortgages, savings, travel rights or more, all are simply moved to the new transitional rules - designed to provide unchanged continuity.
"In other words, today's rules will still stand on Saturday.
"The key change will be when the transition finishes at the year's end."
He concluded: "What happens after that is up in the air, as it depends solely on if and what deal we get with the EU.
"Of course, meantime as always there will be exchange rate and market fluctuations depending how various deal announcement updates are viewed."


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Brexit 50p coin sparks huge queues with Brits paying £945 for special edition version

Collectors are rushing to snap up the new Brexit 50p coin with long queues forming on the Royal Mint website .
The controversial coin is available to purchase from today and Brexiteers have logged on in their thousands to buy limited edition versions of the special 50p piece .
The Royal Mint site has a queuing page for the coins , with more than 6,000 people waiting up to 20 minutes for access to the online store .
The coins , ranging from a £945 gold proof coin to a 'Brilliant Uncirculated ' 50p being sold at £10 went on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaves the European Union and thousands have joined the queue to get their hands on one .
A note on the page says : `` The wait is almost over , you ’ ll be able to enter our website very soon .
In the meantime you have been placed in a queue .
Please do not hit refresh or reload this page as it will increase your wait time .
Thank you for your patience . ''
The Brexit 50p pieces were unveiled by the Royal Mint last year as a 'permanent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ design on the coins features the words : `` Peace , prosperity and friendship with all nations ” along with the date January 31 .
Clare Maclennan , director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint said : “ The Royal Mint has been marking significant events in British history for over 1,000 years , and has a history of commemorating the UK 's relationship with the EU through coinage.
” The coin will be available as gold and silver Proof editions , as well as a Brilliant Uncirculated edition and as part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition , a number of gold Sovereigns will be struck on the day and these particular coins will feature a portcullis privy mark .
The Royal Mint is also selling a two-coin pack that includes the original 1973 coin to celebrate the UK joining the European Economic Community .

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Collectors are rushing to snap up the new Brexit 50p coin with long queues forming on the Royal Mint website.
The controversial coin is available to purchase from today and Brexiteers have logged on in their thousands to buy limited edition versions of the special 50p piece.
The Royal Mint site has a queuing page for the coins, with more than 6,000 people waiting up to 20 minutes for access to the online store.
The coins, ranging from a £945 gold proof coin to a 'Brilliant Uncirculated' 50p being sold at £10 went on sale to mark the day the UK leaves the European Union and thousands have joined the queue to get their hands on one.
A note on the page says: "The wait is almost over, you’ll be able to enter our website very soon. In the meantime you have been placed in a queue. Please do not hit refresh or reload this page as it will increase your wait time. Thank you for your patience."
The Brexit 50p pieces were unveiled by the Royal Mint last year as a 'permanent record of notable events'. The design on the coins features the words: "Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations” along with the date January 31.
Clare Maclennan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint said: “The Royal Mint has been marking significant events in British history for over 1,000 years, and has a history of commemorating the UK's relationship with the EU through coinage.”
The coin will be available as gold and silver Proof editions, as well as a Brilliant Uncirculated edition and as part of a two-coin historic set.
In addition, a number of gold Sovereigns will be struck on the day and these particular coins will feature a portcullis privy mark.
The Royal Mint is also selling a two-coin pack that includes the original 1973 coin to celebrate the UK joining the European Economic Community.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Tokyo 2020 denies coronavirus could cause Olympics cancellation

Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are denying rumours that this year 's Games might be cancelled or postponed because of the spread of coronavirus .
Japan has so far reported no deaths from the virus that has killed more than 200 people in China .
Organisers have hesitated to say much for several days , but on Friday they addressed the rumours , as did the International Olympic Committee .
The Olympics open on July 24 , just under six months away .
`` We have never discussed cancelling the games , '' Tokyo organisers said in a statement to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will continue to collaborate with the IOC and relevant organisations and will review any countermeasures that may be necessary . ''
Rumours of a cancellation have spread in Japan with reports that the Swiss-based IOC has met the World Health Organisation about the outbreak .
The WHO has called the virus a global emergency .
`` Preparations for Tokyo 2020 continue as planned , '' the IOC said in a statement .
`` It is normal practice for the IOC to collaborate with all the main UN agencies , as necessary , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ naturally includes the WHO . ''
Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike , speaking earlier in the week to the heads of 62 municipalities , warned about the dangers of the outbreak .
Japan has also urged citizens not to travel to China .
`` We must firmly tackle the new coronavirus to contain it , or we are going to regret it , '' she said .
Rumours have spread online with thousands of comments on Twitter under the hashtag in Japanese `` Tokyo Olympic Cancelled '' .
The larger problem for the Olympics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and elsewhere being cancelled or postponed .
International federations will have to reschedule events and Chinese athletes could present extra challenges and screening .
Travel , screening and allaying fears are certain to be more complicated if the outbreak continues .
The 11,000 athletes expected to compete at the Tokyo Olympics will also face pressure to stay safe .
Demand for Olympic tickets in Japan is unprecedented , exceeding supply by at least 10 times .
Organisers say 7.8 million tickets are being issued .

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Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are denying rumours that this year's Games might be cancelled or postponed because of the spread of coronavirus.
Japan has so far reported no deaths from the virus that has killed more than 200 people in China.
Organisers have hesitated to say much for several days, but on Friday they addressed the rumours, as did the International Olympic Committee.
The Olympics open on July 24, just under six months away.
"We have never discussed cancelling the games," Tokyo organisers said in a statement to the Associated Press. "Tokyo 2020 will continue to collaborate with the IOC and relevant organisations and will review any countermeasures that may be necessary."
(Image: Getty Images)
Rumours of a cancellation have spread in Japan with reports that the Swiss-based IOC has met the World Health Organisation about the outbreak. The WHO has called the virus a global emergency.
"Preparations for Tokyo 2020 continue as planned," the IOC said in a statement. "It is normal practice for the IOC to collaborate with all the main UN agencies, as necessary, in the lead-up to the Games and this naturally includes the WHO."
Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike, speaking earlier in the week to the heads of 62 municipalities, warned about the dangers of the outbreak. Japan has also urged citizens not to travel to China.
"We must firmly tackle the new coronavirus to contain it, or we are going to regret it," she said.
Rumours have spread online with thousands of comments on Twitter under the hashtag in Japanese "Tokyo Olympic Cancelled".
The larger problem for the Olympics could come with qualifying events in China and elsewhere being cancelled or postponed. International federations will have to reschedule events and Chinese athletes could present extra challenges and screening.
Travel, screening and allaying fears are certain to be more complicated if the outbreak continues. The 11,000 athletes expected to compete at the Tokyo Olympics will also face pressure to stay safe.
Demand for Olympic tickets in Japan is unprecedented, exceeding supply by at least 10 times. Organisers say 7.8 million tickets are being issued.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--First two UK coronavirus patients in Newcastle hospital - what we know so far about their treatment

The first cases of the coronavirus have been diagnosed in the UK , with two people from the same family being treated at a specialist centre .
The announcement was made as more than 80 Britons on an evacuation flight from the Chinese city at the centre of the outbreak were due to land in the UK .
The two patients are currently being treated at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in its specialist Airborne High Consequences Infectious Disease Centre ( HCID ) .
It is understood that they travelled to the UK from China in recent days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Royal Victoria Infirmary .
An outbreak investigation team has been formed to trace anyone who has been in contact with the pair to prevent onward transmission .
Professor Sharon Peacock from Public Health England said anyone who has been in contact with the two patients in England should self-isolate for 14 days , and if they develop any symptoms they are advised to call 111 or their GP .
She said while staff are currently working to trace people who have been in contact with the pair , they do not currently have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that number might be .
In a statement , chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , said : `` The patients are receiving specialist NHS care , and we are using tried and tested infection control procedures to prevent further spread of the virus .
`` The NHS is extremely well prepared and used to managing infections , and we are already working rapidly to identify any contacts the patients had , to prevent further spread .
`` We have been preparing for UK cases of novel coronavirus and we have robust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immediately .
`` We are continuing to work closely with the World Health Organisation and the international community as the outbreak in China develops to ensure we are ready for all eventualities . ''
Anyone who comes to the UK from anywhere in China and shows any symptoms associated with the coronavirus should `` self-isolate '' for 14 days , Prof Whitty added .
It comes as ministers said the Government will send another plane to coronavirus-hit Wuhan to rescue British citizens if needed .
Families had been told that relatives with Chinese @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Chinese officials denied them permission to leave the country .
That decision was reversed hours before the plane was due to depart , but some people did not have time to get to the airport .
The PA news agency understands that the Foreign Office ( FCO ) is working with EU countries to add British passengers to any rescue flights they may charter back from Wuhan .
After several delays , the evacuation flight left Wuhan at 9.45am local time on Friday , carrying 83 Britons and 27 non-UK nationals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is expected to arrive at the Brize Norton RAF base in Oxfordshire at around 1pm , the FCO said .
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove told Sky News on Friday that another plane will be sent if necessary .
He added : `` The flight which is in the air at the moment is not the end of our efforts .
`` It is only one part that we are doing in order to keep people safe . ''
The evacuation flight came after the UK 's four chief medical officers raised the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to moderate and the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) declared an international public health emergency .
Chinese health officials said on Friday morning that the death toll in the country from the virus had risen to 213 , with the number of known cases rising from 7,711 to 9,962 .
No deaths have occurred outside China , although cases have been confirmed across at least 23 countries .
The number of coronavirus cases worldwide has now surpassed that of the Sars epidemic , although death rates are currently lower , suggesting it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including Australia , South Korea , Singapore and New Zealand have said they plan to quarantine evacuees for two weeks to avoid spread of the virus .
The British passengers on the UK evacuation flight - who have mainly been in Wuhan and the surrounding Hubei province - had to sign a contract agreeing to isolation before they could board the flight .
Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said : `` Everybody who has got on the plane is a well passenger .
`` If any of those passengers do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isolate them during any process and remove them in any part of the journey . ''
She said all passengers had undergone screening before boarding the plane and were subject to ongoing questioning and continuous risk assessment during the journey .
On arrival , the passengers will be taken by bus to Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral for a quarantine period of 14 days , where they will be housed in an NHS staff accommodation block with access to the internet .
Anyone with suspicious symptoms will be taken to the Royal Liverpool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an apartment-hotel in Yorkshire was put on lockdown when a man , understood to be a Chinese national , was taken to hospital after falling ill .
The man , who was a guest at the Staycity Hotel in the centre of York , was taken to hospital , together with family members .

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The first cases of the coronavirus have been diagnosed in the UK, with two people from the same family being treated at a specialist centre.
The announcement was made as more than 80 Britons on an evacuation flight from the Chinese city at the centre of the outbreak were due to land in the UK.
The two patients are currently being treated at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in its specialist Airborne High Consequences Infectious Disease Centre (HCID).
It is understood that they travelled to the UK from China in recent days and are undergoing treatment at the Newcastle Royal Victoria Infirmary.
An outbreak investigation team has been formed to trace anyone who has been in contact with the pair to prevent onward transmission.
(Image: Getty Images)
Professor Sharon Peacock from Public Health England said anyone who has been in contact with the two patients in England should self-isolate for 14 days, and if they develop any symptoms they are advised to call 111 or their GP.
She said while staff are currently working to trace people who have been in contact with the pair, they do not currently have "any idea" of how high that number might be.
In a statement, chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said: "The patients are receiving specialist NHS care, and we are using tried and tested infection control procedures to prevent further spread of the virus.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"The NHS is extremely well prepared and used to managing infections, and we are already working rapidly to identify any contacts the patients had, to prevent further spread.
"We have been preparing for UK cases of novel coronavirus and we have robust infection control measures in place to respond immediately.
"We are continuing to work closely with the World Health Organisation and the international community as the outbreak in China develops to ensure we are ready for all eventualities."
Anyone who comes to the UK from anywhere in China and shows any symptoms associated with the coronavirus should "self-isolate" for 14 days, Prof Whitty added.
It comes as ministers said the Government will send another plane to coronavirus-hit Wuhan to rescue British citizens if needed.
Families had been told that relatives with Chinese passports would be unable to join them after Chinese officials denied them permission to leave the country.
That decision was reversed hours before the plane was due to depart, but some people did not have time to get to the airport.
The PA news agency understands that the Foreign Office (FCO) is working with EU countries to add British passengers to any rescue flights they may charter back from Wuhan.
After several delays, the evacuation flight left Wuhan at 9.45am local time on Friday, carrying 83 Britons and 27 non-UK nationals, mostly from EU countries.
The flight is expected to arrive at the Brize Norton RAF base in Oxfordshire at around 1pm, the FCO said.
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove told Sky News on Friday that another plane will be sent if necessary.
He added: "The flight which is in the air at the moment is not the end of our efforts.
"It is only one part that we are doing in order to keep people safe."
The evacuation flight came after the UK's four chief medical officers raised the risk level of the illness from low to moderate and the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared an international public health emergency.
(Image: AP)
Chinese health officials said on Friday morning that the death toll in the country from the virus had risen to 213, with the number of known cases rising from 7,711 to 9,962.
No deaths have occurred outside China, although cases have been confirmed across at least 23 countries.
The number of coronavirus cases worldwide has now surpassed that of the Sars epidemic, although death rates are currently lower, suggesting it is less deadly.
Many other countries, including Australia, South Korea, Singapore and New Zealand have said they plan to quarantine evacuees for two weeks to avoid spread of the virus.
(Image: AP)
The British passengers on the UK evacuation flight - who have mainly been in Wuhan and the surrounding Hubei province - had to sign a contract agreeing to isolation before they could board the flight.
Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said: "Everybody who has got on the plane is a well passenger.
"If any of those passengers do show symptoms there are set procedures to isolate them during any process and remove them in any part of the journey."
She said all passengers had undergone screening before boarding the plane and were subject to ongoing questioning and continuous risk assessment during the journey.
(Image: PA)
On arrival, the passengers will be taken by bus to Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral for a quarantine period of 14 days, where they will be housed in an NHS staff accommodation block with access to the internet.
Anyone with suspicious symptoms will be taken to the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen Hospital.
On Wednesday night, an apartment-hotel in Yorkshire was put on lockdown when a man, understood to be a Chinese national, was taken to hospital after falling ill.
The man, who was a guest at the Staycity Hotel in the centre of York, was taken to hospital, together with family members.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Watch: Bungling Hall Green burglary suspect face-plants on the floor as he jumps fence

This is the moment a Hall Green burglary suspect climbs a fence - only to face plant on the floor in the garden .
West Midlands Police has released a video of a man they would like to trace following a raid at a home on Stratford Road .
The bungling suspect is seen falling face first onto a garden after climbing a fence to get access to the property .
He seems dazed as he gets up and staggers for a moment , before making his way down the garden .
Police say the home was ransacked with hundreds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as other items .
The burglary took place at around 1.10pm on November 16 last year .
Police are now appealing for information in a bid to trace the man in the video .
A statement from West Midlands Police said : `` We believe the break-in happened at around 1.10pm on 16 November 2019 .
`` CCTV has been released as part of the investigation .
It shows the suspect climbing over a garden fence after the break-in .
`` Do you recognise him ?
If you have any information , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or call 101 anytime .
`` To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 , tell them what you know , not who you are .
Please quote crime reference 20BE/271016N/19 . ''

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This is the moment a Hall Green burglary suspect climbs a fence - only to face plant on the floor in the garden.
West Midlands Police has released a video of a man they would like to trace following a raid at a home on Stratford Road.
The bungling suspect is seen falling face first onto a garden after climbing a fence to get access to the property.
He seems dazed as he gets up and staggers for a moment, before making his way down the garden.
Police say the home was ransacked with hundreds of pounds in cash stolen, as well as other items.
The burglary took place at around 1.10pm on November 16 last year. Police are now appealing for information in a bid to trace the man in the video.
A statement from West Midlands Police said: "We believe the break-in happened at around 1.10pm on 16 November 2019.
(Image: WMP)
"CCTV has been released as part of the investigation. It shows the suspect climbing over a garden fence after the break-in.
"Do you recognise him? If you have any information, please get in touch via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or call 101 anytime.
"To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, tell them what you know, not who you are. Please quote crime reference 20BE/271016N/19."


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Dumped bearded dragon found abandoned on wasteland in Wednesbury

A bearded dragon has died after it was dumped on a stretch of wasteland in Wednesbury .
The exotic pet was discovered in a soggy cardboard box in Hughes Road by a member of the public on January 26 .
The RSPCA was called to the scene and rushed the poorly reptile to a rescue centre in Dudley for veterinary assistance .
Despite the vet 's best efforts , the bearded dragon died later that night .
Inspector Jackie Hickman said : `` Sadly this bearded dragon had been dumped in a soggy cardboard box and was not in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cold and dehydrated so I rushed him to a reptile rescue in Dudley for veterinary assistance .
`` Exotic pets like bearded dragons aren ’ t always easy to care for and sadly this does mean we often see them abandoned when their owners struggle to cope with their care which is why we would urge people to thoroughly do their research before taking on an exotic pet .
`` If you ’ re struggling , there is never an excuse to abandon an animal like this as there are always other options @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this bearded dragon was in such a bad state that he didn ’ t make it through the night.
” If you have any information about how this bearded dragon came to be abandoned , please contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018 .
In 2018 , the RSPCA collected over 1,400 reptiles , including 145 bearded dragons .
Evie Button , the RSPCA ’ s Scientific Officer for exotics , said : `` The RSPCA rescued over 1,000 reptiles in 2018 and sadly we are regularly being called to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dragon , that have been abandoned , or neglected , presumably because owners no longer want them or can not care for them properly .
`` Reptiles are completely reliant on their owners to meet their welfare needs , which include the need to be provided with the correct levels of heat , light and humidity , plus an appropriate diet for the particular species .
`` Many of the animals we ’ re called to help are found abandoned outside , where they can very quickly suffer in the cold .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much of a commitment these animals are when they take them on .
`` Impulse buying and lack of research into individual species needs means there is serious risk of people not understanding fully what they need to provide for the animal , which can result in poor animal welfare and animal suffering .
`` It is for this reason that we are urging potential owners to research and look into what is required in the care of their pet first before taking one on so they know what is involved and whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
`` There are books by experts on how to care for the more commonly-kept species and specialist vets and expert reptile groups can be an excellent source of support and advice .
`` If you do find yourself in a situation where you can no longer look after your pet , there are options available .
You could contact the original seller or a local reptile rescue centre for help rehoming your reptile if you feel you are no longer able to care for them .
”

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A bearded dragon has died after it was dumped on a stretch of wasteland in Wednesbury.
The exotic pet was discovered in a soggy cardboard box in Hughes Road by a member of the public on January 26.
The RSPCA was called to the scene and rushed the poorly reptile to a rescue centre in Dudley for veterinary assistance.
(Image: Google Street View)
Despite the vet's best efforts, the bearded dragon died later that night.
Inspector Jackie Hickman said: "Sadly this bearded dragon had been dumped in a soggy cardboard box and was not in a good way.
"He was very cold and dehydrated so I rushed him to a reptile rescue in Dudley for veterinary assistance.
"Exotic pets like bearded dragons aren’t always easy to care for and sadly this does mean we often see them abandoned when their owners struggle to cope with their care which is why we would urge people to thoroughly do their research before taking on an exotic pet.
"If you’re struggling, there is never an excuse to abandon an animal like this as there are always other options open to you.
"Sadly, this bearded dragon was in such a bad state that he didn’t make it through the night.”
If you have any information about how this bearded dragon came to be abandoned, please contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
In 2018, the RSPCA collected over 1,400 reptiles, including 145 bearded dragons.
Evie Button, the RSPCA’s Scientific Officer for exotics, said: "The RSPCA rescued over 1,000 reptiles in 2018 and sadly we are regularly being called to collect reptiles, like this poor bearded dragon, that have been abandoned, or neglected, presumably because owners no longer want them or cannot care for them properly.
"Reptiles are completely reliant on their owners to meet their welfare needs, which include the need to be provided with the correct levels of heat, light and humidity, plus an appropriate diet for the particular species.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"Many of the animals we’re called to help are found abandoned outside, where they can very quickly suffer in the cold.
"Unfortunately many people are unaware of how much of a commitment these animals are when they take them on.
"Impulse buying and lack of research into individual species needs means there is serious risk of people not understanding fully what they need to provide for the animal, which can result in poor animal welfare and animal suffering.
"It is for this reason that we are urging potential owners to research and look into what is required in the care of their pet first before taking one on so they know what is involved and whether they’re the right pet for them.
"There are books by experts on how to care for the more commonly-kept species and specialist vets and expert reptile groups can be an excellent source of support and advice.
"If you do find yourself in a situation where you can no longer look after your pet, there are options available. You could contact the original seller or a local reptile rescue centre for help rehoming your reptile if you feel you are no longer able to care for them.”


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Pedestrian critical after being hit by a bus in Dudley Town Centre

A man who was hit by a bus in Dudley Town Centre is still in a critical condition - police have revealed .
Officers sealed off Castle Street while they investigated the incident which happened at around 3.45pm yesterday afternoon ( January 30 ) .
The pedestrian , who was a man in his 50s , was taken to hospital 'in a serious condition ' following the incident .
A spokesman from West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called at 3.46pm to reports of a collision between a bus and a pedestrian .
`` One ambulance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ambulance Critical Care Car and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene .
`` We treated one man for serious injuries and he was taken on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment . ''
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` We ’ re currently at the scene of a serious collision on Castle Street in Dudley .
`` A man in his 50s has been taken to hospital in a serious condition after being hit by a bus , and the road is closed while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to avoid the area as Castle Street is shut at Tower Street and New Street . ''
Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch via Live Chat , at west-midlands.police.uk or 101 .
Quote log 1722 30/1 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Regen, Oprah Flash)

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A man who was hit by a bus in Dudley Town Centre is still in a critical condition - police have revealed.
Officers sealed off Castle Street while they investigated the incident which happened at around 3.45pm yesterday afternoon (January 30).
The pedestrian, who was a man in his 50s, was taken to hospital 'in a serious condition' following the incident.
(Image: Rossco Adam)
A spokesman from West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 3.46pm to reports of a collision between a bus and a pedestrian.
"One ambulance, two paramedic officers, the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.
"We treated one man for serious injuries and he was taken on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment."
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We’re currently at the scene of a serious collision on Castle Street in Dudley.
"A man in his 50s has been taken to hospital in a serious condition after being hit by a bus, and the road is closed while we investigate.
"Drivers are urged to avoid the area as Castle Street is shut at Tower Street and New Street."
Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch via Live Chat, at west-midlands.police.uk or 101. Quote log 1722 30/1.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--'Statements' West Brom fans react to the transfer of Kamil Grosicki

Kamil Grosicki 's move to West Brom has been met with a big seal of approval from the Baggies fans .
He has become the club 's second signing of the transfer window as they prepare for a busy transfer deadline day .
This is what the fans had to say @ IceAquila : Great player , Just a few more to go Dan Cooper : Good signing , weird how Hull have let him leave along with Bowen going .
No ambitions ?
Nathan Rushton : Welcome to the club , decent signing .
Can we get a decent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31-year-old winger arrives from Championship rivals Hull City on an 18-month deal and for a fee that is believed to be in the region of £800k .
The Baggies have already added Callum Robinson this week , as they look to get their promotion push back on track , and with the addition of Grosicki they have satisfied the number of recruits Slaven Bilic was hoping for in the window .
This is your round up of all things West Brom ; the one-stop shop that will keep you updated on the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Transfers , injuries , match-days and managers , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest on the Baggies throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our handy daily catch up ... • Albion complete first signing of the window - READ • What Bilic has said after Cardiff - READ For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our West Brom reporter Joseph Chapman on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com That said , it appears as though Albion have other irons in the fire and the rest of deadline day may still produce more business .
Grosicki , a Polish international , had been at the KCOM Stadium since the winter of window of 2017 , when he arrived to help Marco Silva try and keep the Tigers in the Premier League .
Despite failure to do so , Grosicki hung around and has largely performed impressively at Championship level .
He almost agreed a loan move to Bursaspor in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having a medical , but that move would eventually fall through and the winger would return to Yorkshire .
They ’ ve decided to sell the player now , rather than lose him for nothing in the summer when his contract was due to expire .
Hull are also expected to lose Grosicki ’ s colleague Jarrod Bowen today - the highly coveted forward is a target for West Ham and Crystal Palace .

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Kamil Grosicki 's move to West Brom has been met with a big seal of approval from the Baggies fans.
He has become the club's second signing of the transfer window as they prepare for a busy transfer deadline day.
This is what the fans had to say@
IceAquila: Great player, Just a few more to go
Alf: Dial that G
SteC9: That's not Jared Bowen!
Dan Cooper: Good signing, weird how Hull have let him leave along with Bowen going. No ambitions?
Danny: What a signing!!! Absolute class winger!
Jamie: Big statements rn
Nathan Rushton: Welcome to the club, decent signing. Can we get a decent striker for him to assist?
The 31-year-old winger arrives from Championship rivals Hull City on an 18-month deal and for a fee that is believed to be in the region of £800k.
The Baggies have already added Callum Robinson this week, as they look to get their promotion push back on track, and with the addition of Grosicki they have satisfied the number of recruits Slaven Bilic was hoping for in the window.
That said, it appears as though Albion have other irons in the fire and the rest of deadline day may still produce more business.
Grosicki, a Polish international, had been at the KCOM Stadium since the winter of window of 2017, when he arrived to help Marco Silva try and keep the Tigers in the Premier League.
Despite failure to do so, Grosicki hung around and has largely performed impressively at Championship level.
He almost agreed a loan move to Bursaspor in the summer of 2018 and was pictured having a medical, but that move would eventually fall through and the winger would return to Yorkshire.
They’ve decided to sell the player now, rather than lose him for nothing in the summer when his contract was due to expire.
Hull are also expected to lose Grosicki’s colleague Jarrod Bowen today - the highly coveted forward is a target for West Ham and Crystal Palace.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Scarlett Moffatt issues defiant statement denying ITV2 Celebability sacking

Scarlett Moffatt has denied claims that she was sacked from ITV2 's Celebability .
The former Queen of the Jungle insisted she wanted to leave the show hosted by Iain Stirling and even suggested Stacey Solomon as her replacement .
Scarlett , who rose to fame on Channel 4 's Gogglebox , has seen her TV commitments dwindle in recent months , having been dropped from I 'm A Celebrity Extra Camp and Ant and Dec 's Saturday Night Takeaway .
The 30-year-old has told The Sun that she had planned to do pantomime this winter , which meant that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She insisted : `` I was going to do the show but then I wanted to do panto really bad .
I love panto . ''
Scarlett said the panto would run `` when they were filming celebability , '' and when Loose Women panelist Stacey was mentioned as a replacement , she insisted `` OMG Stacey is the best fit for this role . ''
The 30-year-old starred as Cinderella 's fairy godmother at Sunderland Empire but she said that she `` is n't precious over roles , '' and would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iain and Stacey . ''
According to Mirror Online , Iain Stirling was also a fan of the Loose Women panelist joining the show , adding : `` She is just brilliant .
She is an absolute professional , an absolute charmer and a joy to work with .
`` It 's been a real honour actually .
TV royalty ! ''
Scarlett was replaced on Extra Camp by Emily Atack , who proved to be a fan favourite but they were all ultimately disappointed as ITV decided not to renew the show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revealed any new plans to return to television once the pantomime has finished .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (James Brinsford, Katie Brooks)

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Scarlett Moffatt has denied claims that she was sacked from ITV2's Celebability.
The former Queen of the Jungle insisted she wanted to leave the show hosted by Iain Stirling and even suggested Stacey Solomon as her replacement.
Scarlett, who rose to fame on Channel 4's Gogglebox, has seen her TV commitments dwindle in recent months, having been dropped from I'm A Celebrity Extra Camp and Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway.
The 30-year-old has told The Sun that she had planned to do pantomime this winter, which meant that she had to relinquish her TV commitments.
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She insisted: "I was going to do the show but then I wanted to do panto really bad. I love panto."
Scarlett said the panto would run "when they were filming celebability," and when Loose Women panelist Stacey was mentioned as a replacement, she insisted "OMG Stacey is the best fit for this role."
The 30-year-old starred as Cinderella's fairy godmother at Sunderland Empire but she said that she "isn't precious over roles," and would still "be watching and rooting for Iain and Stacey."
According to Mirror Online, Iain Stirling was also a fan of the Loose Women panelist joining the show, adding: "She is just brilliant. She is an absolute professional, an absolute charmer and a joy to work with.
"It's been a real honour actually. TV royalty!"
Scarlett was replaced on Extra Camp by Emily Atack, who proved to be a fan favourite but they were all ultimately disappointed as ITV decided not to renew the show for this year.
Scarlett hasn't revealed any new plans to return to television once the pantomime has finished.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--'Corona beer virus' Google searches soar as confusion reigns amid coronavirus outbreak

The deadly coronavirus has got some drinkers worried that their favourite beer may not be too dog for their health .
While some are even nostalgically linking the condition with a brand of soft drink that was famously delivered door-to-door in Birmingham during the 1960s and 70s .
Some beef buffs mistakenly believed that the Mexican variety - normally consumed with a wedge of lime in the neck of the bottle - may be connected to the virus - with internet searches for corona beer virus .
Data from Google showed 'beer coronavirus ' searches surging around the world since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , The Sun reports .
Topping the list for an increase in the term was Denmark and Cambodia where searches for 'corona beer virus , ' rose by 2,300 per cent between January 18 and January 26 .
In the same period , `` beer virus '' searches increased by 744 per and for `` beer coronavirus '' rose by 3,233 per cent .
Meanwhile , Corona soft drinks , founded in 1880 , were famous across the UK with the advertising slogan 'Every bubble has passed its Fizzical . ''
The brand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doorstep deliveries were popular across much of the West Midlands .
It stopped trading as a brand in the late 1990s , but the emergence of the coronavirus has reactivated memories of the drink .
with internet searches increasing .
The brand was popular with children who used to supplement pocket money by collecting deposits on returned glass bottles .

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The deadly coronavirus has got some drinkers worried that their favourite beer may not be too dog for their health.
While some are even nostalgically linking the condition with a brand of soft drink that was famously delivered door-to-door in Birmingham during the 1960s and 70s.
Some beef buffs mistakenly believed that the Mexican variety - normally consumed with a wedge of lime in the neck of the bottle - may be connected to the virus - with internet searches for corona beer virus.
Data from Google showed 'beer coronavirus' searches surging around the world since the condition became prominent earlier this month, The Sun reports.
Topping the list for an increase in the term was Denmark and Cambodia where searches for 'corona beer virus,' rose by 2,300 per cent between January 18 and January 26.
In the same period, "beer virus" searches increased by 744 per and for "beer coronavirus" rose by 3,233 per cent.
Meanwhile, Corona soft drinks, founded in 1880, were famous across the UK with the advertising slogan 'Every bubble has passed its Fizzical."
The brand was based in South Wales but the doorstep deliveries were popular across much of the West Midlands.
It stopped trading as a brand in the late 1990s, but the emergence of the coronavirus has reactivated memories of the drink. with internet searches increasing.
The brand was popular with children who used to supplement pocket money by collecting deposits on returned glass bottles.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--'Makes absolutely no sense’ - Aston Villa fans react to Dean Smith transfer decision

James Chester is closing in on a move to Stoke City from Aston Villa .
The 31-year-old centre-back will join the Championship side today with a medical having been booked in this morning .
Chester has only played twice for Villa this season , with both of his outings coming in cup competitions , and his contract is due to expire in the summer .
The club captain 's last league appearance for Dean Smith ’ s side came in a 2-1 Championship victory against Ipswich Town last January .
He has been through a gruelling injury spell after a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a year ago .
That kept Chester out for the rest of the promotion campaign , with the defender admitting after the play-off final win against Derby County he had caused indefinite damage to his body .
After Chester worked hard to return to training , there was another set back when he suffered a hamstring injury in pre-season .
He recovered to play against Liverpool in the quarter-final of the Carabao Cup and in the FA Cup third round defeat to Fuham .
Chester has been acting as backup to Villa 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mings and Kourtney Hause and wants to secure his long-term future .
Here 's how Villa fans reacted to the news : Dale : To all Stoke fans , if James Chester does join you then what a man you have signed .
Chris : I ’ m gutted tbh lads .
Put his career online for the Villa and will always be missed .
Good luck going forward pal .
Tom : Understand he wants to play so it ’ s logical given everything he ’ s done but if we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up a replacement in squad then the Management team are naive .
Jake : James Chester played 100+ consecutive league games for the Villa , became captain , and risked his career to save our defence last season .
Hope he smashes it in the Championship , goes to the Euros , and signs a new deal in the summer .
The man is an absolute hero .
Lee : Will be a huge loss for us , no coincidence for me that we 've improved since his return to the match day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season when we had no other options and played through an injury that could have ruined him , wish him all the best .
Chun : So long captain Chezzy .
Still think he should be in our 3 man defence !
Been fantastic for us .
All the best !
Chris : This makes absolutely no sense at all to me .
Still a very decent player , needed for squad depth , but most of all , a very important character in the dressing room .
I think it 's a @ @ @ @

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James Chester is closing in on a move to Stoke City from Aston Villa.
The 31-year-old centre-back will join the Championship side today with a medical having been booked in this morning.
Chester has only played twice for Villa this season, with both of his outings coming in cup competitions, and his contract is due to expire in the summer.
The club captain's last league appearance for Dean Smith’s side came in a 2-1 Championship victory against Ipswich Town last January.
He has been through a gruelling injury spell after a recurring knee problem finally took its toll a year ago.
That kept Chester out for the rest of the promotion campaign, with the defender admitting after the play-off final win against Derby County he had caused indefinite damage to his body.
After Chester worked hard to return to training, there was another set back when he suffered a hamstring injury in pre-season.
He recovered to play against Liverpool in the quarter-final of the Carabao Cup and in the FA Cup third round defeat to Fuham.
Chester has been acting as backup to Villa's three-man defence of Ezri Konsa, Tyrone Mings and Kourtney Hause and wants to secure his long-term future.
Here's how Villa fans reacted to the news:
Dale: To all Stoke fans, if James Chester does join you then what a man you have signed.
Chris: I’m gutted tbh lads. Put his career online for the Villa and will always be missed. Good luck going forward pal.
Tom: Understand he wants to play so it’s logical given everything he’s done but if we’ve let him go and not lined up a replacement in squad then the Management team are naive.
Jake: James Chester played 100+ consecutive league games for the Villa, became captain, and risked his career to save our defence last season. Hope he smashes it in the Championship, goes to the Euros, and signs a new deal in the summer. The man is an absolute hero.
Lee: Will be a huge loss for us, no coincidence for me that we've improved since his return to the match day squad, a warrior for us last season when we had no other options and played through an injury that could have ruined him, wish him all the best.
Chun: So long captain Chezzy. Still think he should be in our 3 man defence! Been fantastic for us. All the best!
Chris: This makes absolutely no sense at all to me. Still a very decent player, needed for squad depth, but most of all, a very important character in the dressing room. I think it's a very stupid move.


birminghammail--2020-01-31--'Obviously' - what Kamil Grosicki has said about joining West Brom

West Bromwich Albion 's new signing Kamil Grosicki has only one thing in mind at the club - promotion .
The 31-year-old winger has joined the club from Hull City for an undisclosed fee on an 18-month deal .
He will add competition for places at the club and give Slaven Bilic more squad depth for the promotion challenge .
After signing for the club , Grosicki said : “ I ’ m very happy to have joined West Brom , ” said Kamil after completing the formalities of his transfer for an undisclosed sum .
“ Obviously the target @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to play for the team now .
I am fit and ready .
“ I missed a big chance against Albion in the game at Hull this season – I haven ’ t forgotten that !
But that is football .
It was a good game and I am joining a very good team .
“ Now I am ready to work with the manager and the players to play my part .
Slaven Bilic is not someone I have worked with in the past but I obviously know him and his record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he is a very good man .
“ I am excited to get started and am looking forward to meeting the fans tomorrow .
This is an exciting opportunity for me .
”

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West Bromwich Albion's new signing Kamil Grosicki has only one thing in mind at the club - promotion.
The 31-year-old winger has joined the club from Hull City for an undisclosed fee on an 18-month deal.
He will add competition for places at the club and give Slaven Bilic more squad depth for the promotion challenge.
After signing for the club, Grosicki said: “I’m very happy to have joined West Brom,” said Kamil after completing the formalities of his transfer for an undisclosed sum.
“Obviously the target here is promotion and I am ready to play for the team now. I am fit and ready.
“I missed a big chance against Albion in the game at Hull this season – I haven’t forgotten that! But that is football. It was a good game and I am joining a very good team.
“Now I am ready to work with the manager and the players to play my part. Slaven Bilic is not someone I have worked with in the past but I obviously know him and his record. I have spoken to him and he is a very good man.
“I am excited to get started and am looking forward to meeting the fans tomorrow. This is an exciting opportunity for me.”


birminghammail--2020-01-31--Major revamps for Solihull's railway stations as passenger numbers soar

Multi-million pound plans to redevelop both of Solihull 's main railway stations are taking shape .
Separate proposals for both Birmingham International , near the NEC , and Solihull Station , serving the town centre , are seen as key to increasing capacity on an increasingly congested network .
While both schemes have been under discussion for a few years , the transformation plans have been somewhat overshadowed by the fact that a brand-new station , the HS2 Interchange , is due to be built a short distance from International .
The projects were among several showcased at a special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took place in Solihull on Wednesday .
Visitors were updated on developments taking place across `` UK Central '' , a brand developed by the council to promote the area and encourage investment .
Cllr Ian Courts , leader of Solihull Council , said the projects in the pipeline were key to boosting what he described as one of `` the best connected places in Europe . ''
`` We are not much more than an hour and a quarter from London and we are in the centre of the UK , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) he said : `` We want to have better places for people to live and work and travel .
Solihull Station is a good example of where we want to make improvements . ''
It was agreed in 2018 that work should move forward on upgrading the key `` gateway '' to the town centre , with the council opting for a £20 million redevelopment rather than a whole-sale relocation to nearby Monkspath Hall Road .
Rail users were consulted last summer and discussions are continuing between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Transport for West Midlands ( TfWM ) , Network Rail and Chiltern Railways .
While the steering group is expected to firm up plans by the end of the year , a date has not been confirmed for when work will start on the scheme .
Birmingham International , a few miles to the north east , has also been the subject of discussions after plans for a £286 million revamp were first floated a few years ago .
Key to the scheme will be connections with existing and future transport links , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` people mover '' which forms part of HS2 's plans .
The latest concepts are due to be made public in the spring and construction is set to start after the Commonwealth Games in 2022 .
Passenger numbers at both sites saw further increases in 2018/19 , with the latest data confirming that Birmingham International handled seven million passengers ( up from 6.7 million the previous year ) and Solihull Station had two million ( up from 1.9 million ) .
Tell us your views on Facebook Birmingham and the West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devoted to their political causes who are not afraid to tell you what they think !
This Facebook group is an extension of the unrivalled political coverage you get from Birmingham Live and the Birmingham Mail & Post .
Here you will find our stories from Parliament and the Council chambers , alongside stories from your communities which show how political decisions are having an impact .
It 's also the place for you if you want to share your own views , engage in debate and tell us about the issues we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK Central event included : • The long-awaited Kingshurst Parade redevelopment .
A concept masterplan will go on show at The Space , in Marston Drive , on Monday , February 24 , ahead of a formal planning application .
• The multi-storey Westgate office development planned for Homer Road .
Work to clear the site has started , with the scheme set to go to planning committee within months .
• A masterplan for Chelmsley Wood town centre .
Still in its early stages , but proposals could include new retail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• Plans for `` The Hub '' - an area encompassing the airport , NEC , Birmingham International , Birmingham Business Park and Jaguar Land Rover .
The zone will also be the home of the new HS2 Interchange Station , with plans in store for up to 5,000 new homes , a multi-storey car park and commercial development .
• Various transport schemes , including the Sprint bus services - linking Solihull town centre and the airport with Birmingham - an extension to the Midlands Metro line , serving North Solihull @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The summit , held at Solihull 's Voco St John 's Hotel , also heard from representatives from the Blythe Valley Business Park , the airport , HS2 Ltd and the Chamber of Commerce .

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Multi-million pound plans to redevelop both of Solihull's main railway stations are taking shape.
Separate proposals for both Birmingham International, near the NEC, and Solihull Station, serving the town centre, are seen as key to increasing capacity on an increasingly congested network.
While both schemes have been under discussion for a few years, the transformation plans have been somewhat overshadowed by the fact that a brand-new station, the HS2 Interchange, is due to be built a short distance from International.
The projects were among several showcased at a special summit of business and civic leaders which took place in Solihull on Wednesday.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
Visitors were updated on developments taking place across "UK Central", a brand developed by the council to promote the area and encourage investment.
Cllr Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council, said the projects in the pipeline were key to boosting what he described as one of "the best connected places in Europe."
"We are not much more than an hour and a quarter from London and we are in the centre of the UK," he said.
Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) he said: "We want to have better places for people to live and work and travel. Solihull Station is a good example of where we want to make improvements."
It was agreed in 2018 that work should move forward on upgrading the key "gateway" to the town centre, with the council opting for a £20 million redevelopment rather than a whole-sale relocation to nearby Monkspath Hall Road.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Rail users were consulted last summer and discussions are continuing between the council and other key partners including Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), Network Rail and Chiltern Railways.
While the steering group is expected to firm up plans by the end of the year, a date has not been confirmed for when work will start on the scheme.
Birmingham International, a few miles to the north east, has also been the subject of discussions after plans for a £286 million revamp were first floated a few years ago.
Key to the scheme will be connections with existing and future transport links, including buses, trams and the driverless "people mover" which forms part of HS2's plans.
The latest concepts are due to be made public in the spring and construction is set to start after the Commonwealth Games in 2022.
Passenger numbers at both sites saw further increases in 2018/19, with the latest data confirming that Birmingham International handled seven million passengers (up from 6.7 million the previous year) and Solihull Station had two million (up from 1.9 million).
Other projects discussed at the UK Central event included:
The long-awaited Kingshurst Parade redevelopment. A concept masterplan will go on show at The Space, in Marston Drive, on Monday, February 24, ahead of a formal planning application.
The multi-storey Westgate office development planned for Homer Road. Work to clear the site has started, with the scheme set to go to planning committee within months.
A masterplan for Chelmsley Wood town centre. Still in its early stages, but proposals could include new retail units, housing and a transport interchange.
Plans for "The Hub" - an area encompassing the airport, NEC, Birmingham International, Birmingham Business Park and Jaguar Land Rover. The zone will also be the home of the new HS2 Interchange Station, with plans in store for up to 5,000 new homes, a multi-storey car park and commercial development.
Various transport schemes, including the Sprint bus services - linking Solihull town centre and the airport with Birmingham - an extension to the Midlands Metro line, serving North Solihull, and the aforementioned automated people mover.
The summit, held at Solihull's Voco St John's Hotel, also heard from representatives from the Blythe Valley Business Park, the airport, HS2 Ltd and the Chamber of Commerce.