birminghammail--2020-05-05--Dad stands in front of car to protect kids in zebra crossing near-miss

This is the heart-stopping moment a dad tries to stop a motorist driving over a zebra crossing as four young children pass .
Furious Jason Payne stood in front of the Honda Seat to ensure their safety during the terrifying near-miss in Green Lane , Castle Bromwich .
The driver was said to have muttered something about being in a chase before he drove over the crossing before the family had crossed .
Police are investigating the scare , which happened as they took their daily exercise on Monday evening , May 4 .
Mr Payne , 34 , was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her five-year-old daughter , Grace , and three-year-old son Ollie , and his two sons , eight year old Preston and Mason , ten .
Miss Mears said the adults , with the children on their scooters , started crossing when the Seat screeched to a halt behind the car in front .
Then it started to pull out , forcing Mr Payne to jump in front and bang on the bonnet asking : ‘ What are you doing ?
’ The driver - who was wearing a mask - was said to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a chase but then drove off .
The children stopped and , sensing danger , quickly moved back on their scooters to the safety of the pavement .
Miss Mears , 26 , said she was terrified and suffered a panic attack .
She said : `` We came to the crossing and the car in front came to a stop .
`` That car had screeched to a halt .
We thought the driver involved had turned out a little to stop himself hitting the car in front .
`` My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OK , please keep walking across the road.
’ '' But the driver continued to speed out .
My partner banged on the bonnet and said : 'What are you doing ?
There ’ s children here .
`` He still continued .
Apparently he was saying he was sorry and he looked at the back of his car and said something about a chase .
So the kids moved back to the pavement and he drove off . ''
`` We were very shocked .
I ended up having a panic attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` We received a report of a car driving erratically and nearly hitting a woman and two children on a crossing along Green Lane , Castle Bromwich , around 6.30pm yesterday , May 4 .
`` We ’ ve made an appointment to speak to the woman to obtain more details today , and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101 .

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This is the heart-stopping moment a dad tries to stop a motorist driving over a zebra crossing as four young children pass.
Furious Jason Payne stood in front of the Seat Leon to ensure their safety during the terrifying near-miss in Green Lane, Castle Bromwich.
The driver was said to have muttered something about being in a chase before he drove over the crossing before the family had crossed.
Police are investigating the scare, which happened as they took their daily exercise on Monday evening, May 4.
Mr Payne, 34, was with his partner, Elizabeth Mears, her five-year-old daughter, Grace, and three-year-old son Ollie, and his two sons, eight year old Preston and Mason, ten.
Miss Mears said the adults, with the children on their scooters, started crossing when the Seat screeched to a halt behind the car in front.
Then it started to pull out, forcing Mr Payne to jump in front and bang on the bonnet asking: ‘What are you doing?’
The driver - who was wearing a mask - was said to have apologised and said something about being in a chase but then drove off.
The children stopped and, sensing danger, quickly moved back on their scooters to the safety of the pavement.
Miss Mears, 26, said she was terrified and suffered a panic attack.
She said: "We came to the crossing and the car in front came to a stop.
"That car had screeched to a halt. We thought the driver involved had turned out a little to stop himself hitting the car in front.
"My partner said: ‘It’s OK, please keep walking across the road.’
"But the driver continued to speed out. My partner banged on the bonnet and said: 'What are you doing? There’s children here.
"He still continued. Apparently he was saying he was sorry and he looked at the back of his car and said something about a chase. So the kids moved back to the pavement and he drove off."
"We were very shocked. I ended up having a panic attack."
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "We received a report of a car driving erratically and nearly hitting a woman and two children on a crossing along Green Lane, Castle Bromwich, around 6.30pm yesterday, May 4.
"We’ve made an appointment to speak to the woman to obtain more details today, and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101.
"Quote log number 3732 of 4/5/20.”


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Asthma and issues Aston Villa's stars are facing during lockdown

Dean Smith has alarmingly revealed severe health fears surrounding two of his Aston Villa players .
The squad is currently on lockdown and , unlike Arsenal , are yet to return to training amid the stark threat of contracting coronavirus .
Bodymoor Heath was shut down eight weeks ago with players ordered to maintain fitness levels from home ahead of a Premier League return .
However , head coach Smith admits despite wanting to return back to work , the Premier League must 'tick the right boxes ' .
The manager has revealed how an unnamed Aston Villa squad member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among the most at-risk to the threat of Covid-19 according to the NHS .
Smith also explained how another player is currently living with his mother-in-law who 's in remission .
Smith told Sky Sports : `` Everyone wants to get back into training but they want to see what the medical protocol is first .
`` There 's a certain risk attached to returning to training for all players and I think they want to make sure we tick the boxes for them so it 's safe to do so .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we 've got a player who 's asthmatic , a player who 's mother-in-law is in remission who 's living with the family so you 've got to be very careful and that 's certainly been the transmission because this illness knows no boundaries . ''
Asked if he 'd be forced to omit the mentioned players if football was to resume , Smith added : `` It would have to be the case because the players ' health and safety is paramount .
`` If they 're not comfortable to return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when it 's safe to do so .
`` We have to listen to our players and we have to listen to their concerns .
If the protocol is we that can move forward , those safe to will do so . ''
Smith , meanwhile , has been planning for a return back to Bodymoor Heath but detailed how it 's `` trying to plan for the unplannable '' .
Clubs such as Wolves are expected to return to training next week , and Smith has been looking at possible training sessions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's trying to plan for the unplannable , '' he said .
`` We actually do n't know what 's going to happen .
The social distance measures in place at the moment you 're thinking of training sessions you can actually do .
`` I have been having regular chats with coaching staff and staff in general about how we adapt to the situation and what it eventually might look like .
`` It 's allowed me to review and reflect about what we 've done so far .
I 've been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far .
We 're having regular group chats , putting lads into different groups .
They 've been watching games and reporting back . ''

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Dean Smith has alarmingly revealed severe health fears surrounding two of his Aston Villa players.
The squad is currently on lockdown and, unlike Arsenal, are yet to return to training amid the stark threat of contracting coronavirus.
Bodymoor Heath was shut down eight weeks ago with players ordered to maintain fitness levels from home ahead of a Premier League return.
However, head coach Smith admits despite wanting to return back to work, the Premier League must 'tick the right boxes'.
The manager has revealed how an unnamed Aston Villa squad member has asthma and, therefore, is among the most at-risk to the threat of Covid-19 according to the NHS. Smith also explained how another player is currently living with his mother-in-law who's in remission.
(Image: 2019 Aston Villa FC)
Smith told Sky Sports : "Everyone wants to get back into training but they want to see what the medical protocol is first.
"There's a certain risk attached to returning to training for all players and I think they want to make sure we tick the boxes for them so it's safe to do so.
"We've got a couple of players, we've got a player who's asthmatic, a player who's mother-in-law is in remission who's living with the family so you've got to be very careful and that's certainly been the transmission because this illness knows no boundaries."
Asked if he'd be forced to omit the mentioned players if football was to resume, Smith added: "It would have to be the case because the players' health and safety is paramount.
"If they're not comfortable to return then you have to return without them when it's safe to do so.
"We have to listen to our players and we have to listen to their concerns. If the protocol is we that can move forward, those safe to will do so."
Smith, meanwhile, has been planning for a return back to Bodymoor Heath but detailed how it's "trying to plan for the unplannable". Clubs such as Wolves are expected to return to training next week, and Smith has been looking at possible training sessions to incorporate social distancing.
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"It's trying to plan for the unplannable," he said. "We actually don't know what's going to happen. The social distance measures in place at the moment you're thinking of training sessions you can actually do.
"I have been having regular chats with coaching staff and staff in general about how we adapt to the situation and what it eventually might look like.
"It's allowed me to review and reflect about what we've done so far. I've been having video chats with each individual player so far. We're having regular group chats, putting lads into different groups. They've been watching games and reporting back."


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Piers Morgan claps back at fury over his 'key worker' status after Covid test

Piers Morgan has clapped back at a follower who hit out at him for taking a coronavirus test .
The outraged social media user took to Twitter to slam Piers over his `` key worker '' status .
Controversial Piers revealed he was missing the Monday instalment of Good Morning Britain after developing a `` mild '' Covid-19 symptom .
He subsequently revealed he had tested for the deadly bug and the result had come back nefative .
Piers remains absent from GMB on Tuesday , with Ben Shephard once again replacing him at the helm .
And Piers has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , clapping back at a backlash from his followers over being tested .
One outraged follower , who has since deleted her tweet , accused the broadcaster of fibbing about his status , when all around the country , vulnerable people have not been able to be tested .
`` My daughter is a nurse - she 's an essential worker , '' one social media user fumed on Twitter .
Piers replied : `` Your daughter is an infinitely more essential worker than me .
I was drawing no equivalence , just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & broadcasters covering the coronavirus crisis as essential workers too , which is why we can get a test if we show symptoms . ''

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Piers Morgan has clapped back at a follower who hit out at him for taking a coronavirus test.
The outraged social media user took to Twitter to slam Piers over his "key worker" status.
Controversial Piers revealed he was missing the Monday instalment of Good Morning Britain after developing a "mild" Covid-19 symptom.
He subsequently revealed he had tested for the deadly bug and the result had come back nefative.
Piers remains absent from GMB on Tuesday, with Ben Shephard once again replacing him at the helm.
And Piers has been busy on social media this morning, clapping back at a backlash from his followers over being tested.
One outraged follower, who has since deleted her tweet, accused the broadcaster of fibbing about his status, when all around the country, vulnerable people have not been able to be tested.
"My daughter is a nurse - she's an essential worker," one social media user fumed on Twitter.
Piers replied: "Your daughter is an infinitely more essential worker than me. I was drawing no equivalence, just explaining the Govt's designated all journalists & broadcasters covering the coronavirus crisis as essential workers too, which is why we can get a test if we show symptoms."


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Breast cancer survivor and her husband release NHS charity single

A charitable couple have released a single in aid of the NHS .
Sue Cressman , a breast cancer survivor , has teamed up with her husband Rick and their friend Guy Barnes to bring out the song 'Survive ' .
They worked with Ian Wherry , Elaine Paige 's musical director , who has also collaborated with David Essex , A-Ha and David Cassidy .
All proceeds will go towards helping local hopitals .
The couple run Nailcote Hall , a 17th century country house and hotel near Coventry , that is closed during the coronavirus crisis .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years and have released their single to say thank you to the NHS .
Sue , who is originally from Willenhall , has faced two battles with breast cancer , the first being 27 years ago , and the Cressmans have supported many charities including the NHS , breast cancer patients , hospices and more .
The single survive was written by Rick and their friend Guy .
Rick , whose late father Harry was a director at Aston Villa , said : `` We will be trying to help any way we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sing so she ’ s realised the ambition of a lifetime .
`` The words are intended to inspire courage and hope for the future and that ’ s what we need for sure right now .
`` Understanding Sue ’ s experiences fighting Breast Cancer twice in 28 years and surviving made it very poignant for me to write the lyrics and help her achieve a singing dream .
`` To work with Ian Wherry , Elaine Paige 's musical director , made it all the more special .
`` Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further and make people feel lifted and inspired .
`` The proceeds from this anthem will go to support our wonderful NHS . ''
The couple are also helping the University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire Charity .
Sue explained that they were supplying 'Eat on the Run ' goodies for staff who are working 12 hour shifts with not time for proper meal breaks .
To listen to the song please search iTunes : Survive by Sue Cressman

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A charitable couple have released a single in aid of the NHS.
Sue Cressman, a breast cancer survivor, has teamed up with her husband Rick and their friend Guy Barnes to bring out the song 'Survive'.
They worked with Ian Wherry, Elaine Paige's musical director, who has also collaborated with David Essex, A-Ha and David Cassidy.
All proceeds will go towards helping local hopitals.
The couple run Nailcote Hall, a 17th century country house and hotel near Coventry, that is closed during the coronavirus crisis.
They have been holding charitable events for 30 years and have released their single to say thank you to the NHS.
Sue, who is originally from Willenhall, has faced two battles with breast cancer, the first being 27 years ago, and the Cressmans have supported many charities including the NHS, breast cancer patients, hospices and more.
The single survive was written by Rick and their friend Guy.
Rick, whose late father Harry was a director at Aston Villa, said: "We will be trying to help any way we can.
"Sue has always wanted to sing so she’s realised the ambition of a lifetime.
"The words are intended to inspire courage and hope for the future and that’s what we need for sure right now.
"Understanding Sue’s experiences fighting Breast Cancer twice in 28 years and surviving made it very poignant for me to write the lyrics and help her achieve a singing dream.
"To work with Ian Wherry, Elaine Paige's musical director, made it all the more special.
"Now we hope we can help our hospitals further and make people feel lifted and inspired.
"The proceeds from this anthem will go to support our wonderful NHS."
The couple are also helping the University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire Charity.
Sue explained that they were supplying 'Eat on the Run' goodies for staff who are working 12 hour shifts with not time for proper meal breaks.
To listen to the song please search iTunes: Survive by Sue Cressman


birminghammail--2020-05-05--How the coronavirus tracing app works and when it will reach rest of UK

Trials are beginning on a new coronavirus contact-tracing app which ministers say will save lives and help lift Britain out of lockdown .
On Tuesday , Health Secretary Matt Mr Hancock said the app would allow the Government to have a picture of where there might be virus hotspots .
He said : `` The more people who have the app the better . ''
He said human contact tracing is important alongside technology .
He said : `` Of course we use the technology but we 're going to be using people too in this test , track and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked why the UK app is different to the Google and Apple app being used elsewhere .
He said : `` Other countries do n't have the NHS , they have private healthcare , and it does n't work in quite the same way , and that means that we 've got additional features on ours , but of course we 're working with Apple and Goggle and it may be that if you go abroad you might need to download the app of a different country .
`` Fine , that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very few people are travelling at the moment , so that really is an issue for the future rather than for now .
`` The system that we 're building is all about trying to make sure we do everything we can to control the spread of the virus because that will then help us to be able to release more of the social distancing measures that are impacting on everybody . ''
Mr Hancock said there is `` high privacy '' in the coronavirus contact-tracing app .
He said a user 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the phones it has been within two metres of for more than 15 minutes in the previous few days .
He said one of the aspects being tested in the trial on the Isle of Wight is whether the best thing is for someone who gets a message saying they have been in contact with someone with symptoms should self-isolate `` in case you develop the symptoms '' .
He told BBC Breakfast : `` This is one of the reasons that we want to test it to ensure that we get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to do as soon as the contact tracing pings you . ''
Besides the five tests , the biggest factor in the decision to ease lockdown restrictions is the successful uptake of the Government 's Covid-19 contact-tracing app .
If the tests are successful it could be rolled out across the country within weeks as ministers seek to shape a strategy to allow some economic activity to resume , with the long-awaited `` roadmap '' for easing lockdown being published on Sunday .
The Sun reported that industry has been warned some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between six months to a year , with growing fears among the Government 's medical advisers that the coronavirus is seasonal .
An industry source told the newspaper : `` If it survives the winter , these measures will have to be in place longer . ''
Announcing the app trial , Health Secretary Matt Hancock appealed to everyone on the island who was able to download the app to do so .
`` I know that the people of the Isle of Wight will embrace this with enthusiasm because by embarking on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track and trace , you will be saving lives , '' he said .
The `` test , track and trace '' programme will allow the Government to take a `` more targeted approach '' to the lockdown while still containing the disease , he added .
But Mr Hancock faced resistance from some Tory MPs concerned at the trial 's implications for civil liberties over the gathering of data on individuals ' movements .
In the Commons , Marcus Fysh warned `` widespread surveillance '' was `` not acceptable '' in Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was voluntary .
`` We 're not a people who take well to surveillance and it 's a little ironic that the country that has probably been surveilling its population more than any other appears to have been the source of this virus , '' he said , referring to China .
The app uses Bluetooth to track and trace contacts between users - alerting people if someone they interacted with has displayed symptoms or tested positive for the virus Officials insist it is designed with privacy and security `` front of mind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual 's phone until the point they contact the NHS to report symptoms and request a test .
However , Amnesty International UK director Kate Allen said the Government should look at decentralised app models - where contact-tracing data stays on a user 's device .
`` We 're extremely concerned that the Government may be planning to route private data through a central database , opening the door to pervasive state surveillance and privacy infringement , with potentially discriminatory effects , '' she said .

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Trials are beginning on a new coronavirus contact-tracing app which ministers say will save lives and help lift Britain out of lockdown.
On Tuesday, Health Secretary Matt Mr Hancock said the app would allow the Government to have a picture of where there might be virus hotspots.
He said: "The more people who have the app the better."
He said human contact tracing is important alongside technology.
He said: "Of course we use the technology but we're going to be using people too in this test, track and trace system."
Mr Hancock was asked why the UK app is different to the Google and Apple app being used elsewhere.
He said: "Other countries don't have the NHS, they have private healthcare, and it doesn't work in quite the same way, and that means that we've got additional features on ours, but of course we're working with Apple and Goggle and it may be that if you go abroad you might need to download the app of a different country.
"Fine, that's not a problem, but of course very few people are travelling at the moment, so that really is an issue for the future rather than for now.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"The system that we're building is all about trying to make sure we do everything we can to control the spread of the virus because that will then help us to be able to release more of the social distancing measures that are impacting on everybody."
Mr Hancock said there is "high privacy" in the coronavirus contact-tracing app.
He said a user's phone will store anonymously the information about all the phones it has been within two metres of for more than 15 minutes in the previous few days.
He said one of the aspects being tested in the trial on the Isle of Wight is whether the best thing is for someone who gets a message saying they have been in contact with someone with symptoms should self-isolate "in case you develop the symptoms".
He told BBC Breakfast: "This is one of the reasons that we want to test it to ensure that we get the rules right around what we advise people to do as soon as the contact tracing pings you."
(Image: PA)
Besides the five tests, the biggest factor in the decision to ease lockdown restrictions is the successful uptake of the Government's Covid-19 contact-tracing app.
If the tests are successful it could be rolled out across the country within weeks as ministers seek to shape a strategy to allow some economic activity to resume, with the long-awaited "roadmap" for easing lockdown being published on Sunday.
The Sun reported that industry has been warned some social distancing measures will be required for between six months to a year, with growing fears among the Government's medical advisers that the coronavirus is seasonal.
An industry source told the newspaper: "If it survives the winter, these measures will have to be in place longer."
Announcing the app trial, Health Secretary Matt Hancock appealed to everyone on the island who was able to download the app to do so.
"I know that the people of the Isle of Wight will embrace this with enthusiasm because by embarking on this project and by embracing test, track and trace, you will be saving lives," he said.
The "test, track and trace" programme will allow the Government to take a "more targeted approach" to the lockdown while still containing the disease, he added.
But Mr Hancock faced resistance from some Tory MPs concerned at the trial's implications for civil liberties over the gathering of data on individuals' movements.
In the Commons, Marcus Fysh warned "widespread surveillance" was "not acceptable" in Britain, and it was essential the system was voluntary.
"We're not a people who take well to surveillance and it's a little ironic that the country that has probably been surveilling its population more than any other appears to have been the source of this virus," he said, referring to China.
The app uses Bluetooth to track and trace contacts between users - alerting people if someone they interacted with has displayed symptoms or tested positive for the virus
Officials insist it is designed with privacy and security "front of mind" with the data stored on an individual's phone until the point they contact the NHS to report symptoms and request a test.
However, Amnesty International UK director Kate Allen said the Government should look at decentralised app models - where contact-tracing data stays on a user's device.
"We're extremely concerned that the Government may be planning to route private data through a central database, opening the door to pervasive state surveillance and privacy infringement, with potentially discriminatory effects," she said.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Man sleeps in church doorway after illegal flat eviction

A man was forced to sleep in a church doorway after being illegally kicked out of his flat .
Police said the man was left homeless after his landlord wrongly refused him access to the property he was renting .
He spent several weeks sleeping rough on the streets of Bloxwich - and in the doorway of All Saints Church - before officers stepped in to help .
The man , who was not named , was able to return to his flat last weekend - with cops warning landlords they would take action if the legal eviction process was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police tweeted : `` Over the weekend the team has helped a 'homeless ' man get back into accommodation he was renting after he was illegally refused access by the landlord .
`` The man has been seen sleeping in the doorway of All Saints Church and on the street for several weeks .
`` He has now enjoyed two nights ' sleep back in his flat and hopefully his health will improve .
We work with Walsall Council to ensure all tenants are treated appropriately according to the law and where necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( the ) vast majority of our landlords are kind and professional people .
For the minority who abuse their tenants rights , we will step in .
There is a legal process for evictions which MUST be followed .
Illegal eviction is a CRIMINAL offence . ''
Walsall Council has been approached for comment .

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A man was forced to sleep in a church doorway after being illegally kicked out of his flat.
Police said the man was left homeless after his landlord wrongly refused him access to the property he was renting.
He spent several weeks sleeping rough on the streets of Bloxwich - and in the doorway of All Saints Church - before officers stepped in to help.
The man, who was not named, was able to return to his flat last weekend - with cops warning landlords they would take action if the legal eviction process was not followed.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
A spokesman for Bloxwich Police tweeted: "Over the weekend the team has helped a 'homeless' man get back into accommodation he was renting after he was illegally refused access by the landlord.
"The man has been seen sleeping in the doorway of All Saints Church and on the street for several weeks.
"He has now enjoyed two nights' sleep back in his flat and hopefully his health will improve. We work with Walsall Council to ensure all tenants are treated appropriately according to the law and where necessary, prosecute offenders.
"We know (the) vast majority of our landlords are kind and professional people. For the minority who abuse their tenants rights, we will step in. There is a legal process for evictions which MUST be followed. Illegal eviction is a CRIMINAL offence."
Walsall Council has been approached for comment.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--EFL chairman confirms promotion plan in government meeting

EFL chairman Rick Parry has confirmed he still expects clubs to be promoted from the Championship to the Premier League this season .
Parry was giving evidence to the Digital , Culture , Media and Sport committee about the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on football and warned of legal challenges if promotion is scrapped .
West Bromwich Albion are hopeful of returning to the top-flight having led the Championship promotion charge with Leeds United for the majority of the season .
Football bosses remain in discussions about how to complete the campaign with the Premier League considering staging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We expect three Championship clubs to be promoted - the Premier League are aware of our position on that , '' Parry said .
`` The Premier League expects three clubs to be relegated . ''
Some top-flight clubs reportedly want the threat of relegation removed in order to agree to plans for restarting the season .
Such a proposal would pose a serious threat to Albion 's chances of going up .
But asked what would happen if the Premier League 's position changed , Parry said : `` The lawyers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happens .
There would be a degree of outrage from a number of clubs in our Championship , and it would be a breach of the tripartite agreement .
`` The safe answer is that it would get very messy .
Our expectation is there would be three clubs promoted from the Championship . ''
Slaven Bilic 's side have nine matches left to play and hold a six-point lead over Fulham in third .

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EFL chairman Rick Parry has confirmed he still expects clubs to be promoted from the Championship to the Premier League this season.
Parry was giving evidence to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee about the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on football and warned of legal challenges if promotion is scrapped.
West Bromwich Albion are hopeful of returning to the top-flight having led the Championship promotion charge with Leeds United for the majority of the season.
Football bosses remain in discussions about how to complete the campaign with the Premier League considering staging the remaining fixtures at neutral venues.
"We expect three Championship clubs to be promoted - the Premier League are aware of our position on that," Parry said. "The Premier League expects three clubs to be relegated."
Some top-flight clubs reportedly want the threat of relegation removed in order to agree to plans for restarting the season.
Such a proposal would pose a serious threat to Albion's chances of going up.
But asked what would happen if the Premier League's position changed, Parry said: "The lawyers are going to get wealthy if that happens. There would be a degree of outrage from a number of clubs in our Championship, and it would be a breach of the tripartite agreement.
"The safe answer is that it would get very messy. Our expectation is there would be three clubs promoted from the Championship."
Slaven Bilic's side have nine matches left to play and hold a six-point lead over Fulham in third.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Marks and Spencer launch home delivery today from 142 stores - full list

Marks and Spencer is launching a home delivery service from a number of its outlets in the UK .
The high street giant is offering 130 items on Deliveroo , including food and household items .
It comes after a successful trial partnership with Deliveroo and now means that M & S food is available across the country without having to step foot out of the house .
To order , you need the Deliveroo app , but there is a standard £4.99 cost for delivery .
The M & S range available on Deliveroo includes fresh fruit , vegetables @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sweets , biscuits , soft drinks , wine and toilet roll .
M & S has also revealed how it is celebrating VE day with customers .
It is offering a commemorative shortbread tin to celebrated the day .
M & S Biscuit Developer , Natalie Tate said , “ M & S customers LOVE a biscuit .
This month we ’ ve even launched a commemorative biscuit tin , full of delicious all butter Scottish shortbread ( another customer favourite ! )
to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outlets :

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Marks and Spencer is launching a home delivery service from a number of its outlets in the UK.
The high street giant is offering 130 items on Deliveroo, including food and household items.
It comes after a successful trial partnership with Deliveroo and now means that M&S food is available across the country without having to step foot out of the house.
To order, you need the Deliveroo app, but there is a standard £4.99 cost for delivery.
The M&S range available on Deliveroo includes fresh fruit, vegetables, pasta, meat, prepared meals, sweets, biscuits, soft drinks, wine and toilet roll.
M&S has also revealed how it is celebrating VE day with customers.
It is offering a commemorative shortbread tin to celebrated the day.
M&S Biscuit Developer, Natalie Tate said, “M&S customers LOVE a biscuit. This month we’ve even launched a commemorative biscuit tin, full of delicious all butter Scottish shortbread (another customer favourite!) to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.”
Full list or participating stores and other outlets:


birminghammail--2020-05-05--McDonald's shares list of 15 UK restaurants re-opening in lockdown

The 15 UK restaurants set to re-open as McDonald 's prepares for life after coronavirus have been revealed .
But , sadly , there are none in Birmingham - or the Midlands .
The fast food giant confirmed news of the restaurant re-openings last week , sharing an announcement over 15 branches set to swing open their doors once again .
Paul Pomroy , head of McDonald 's in the UK and Ireland , said : `` We are working hard to reopen more restaurants ...
Slowly , but safely we will return .
`` When we return it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this new normal .
I want to apologise in advance if our first wave of reopened restaurants does not serve your area .
`` Rest assured , we are working hard to reopen more restaurants , but I am adamant this must be at the right pace with the wellbeing of our employees , suppliers and customers front of mind . ''
Mr Pomroy last week said that tests were being carried out to ensure social distancing measures were met in its restaurants .
He said : `` [ The tests ] will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crew , PPE options and opening in a limited capacity .
`` Restarting our business is not an easy task even when reopening in a limited capacity .
`` We have set ourselves some key criteria for reopening , all of which take time – first and foremost ensuring the wellbeing of our people and creating the right environment for them to return to work ; secondly ensuring we have enough supply of fresh produce ; and finally working in-step with Government guidelines to ensure the safety of our customers .
`` For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only reopen when we are absolutely confident we can have the right measures in place to ensure everyone ’ s wellbeing . ''

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The 15 UK restaurants set to re-open as McDonald's prepares for life after coronavirus have been revealed.
But, sadly, there are none in Birmingham - or the Midlands.
The fast food giant confirmed news of the restaurant re-openings last week, sharing an announcement over 15 branches set to swing open their doors once again.
Paul Pomroy, head of McDonald's in the UK and Ireland, said: "We are working hard to reopen more restaurants... Slowly, but safely we will return.
"When we return it will be different as we all adjust to this new normal. I want to apologise in advance if our first wave of reopened restaurants does not serve your area.
"Rest assured, we are working hard to reopen more restaurants, but I am adamant this must be at the right pace with the wellbeing of our employees, suppliers and customers front of mind."
Mr Pomroy last week said that tests were being carried out to ensure social distancing measures were met in its restaurants.
He said: "[The tests] will include exploring social distancing measures for our crew, PPE options and opening in a limited capacity.
"Restarting our business is not an easy task even when reopening in a limited capacity.
(Image: PA)
"We have set ourselves some key criteria for reopening, all of which take time – first and foremost ensuring the wellbeing of our people and creating the right environment for them to return to work; secondly ensuring we have enough supply of fresh produce; and finally working in-step with Government guidelines to ensure the safety of our customers.
"For now we remain closed, and will only reopen when we are absolutely confident we can have the right measures in place to ensure everyone’s wellbeing."
The 15 McDonald's stores reopening are:


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Lidl is bringing back one of its most popular products ever for just £1.19

Pastry fans will be pleased to hear that this week Lidl is launching Pasteis de Nata for just £2.69 , alongside the return of its fan favourite Churros .
The traditional Portuguese treat , made up of indulgent egg custard and a flaky pastry tart , are kept in the freezer ready to be popped in the oven - perfect for a little afternoon pick me up or an after dinner treat .
Available to pick up in store from Thursday along with the weekly shop , Lidl is also bringing out it 's wildly popular Churros , which are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole household .
These sugary treats , made using choux pastry with a doughnut like texture , flew off shelves this time last year .
Ready to heat up in no time , they ’ re delicious served with melted chocolate , toffee sauce or hazelnut spread .
What ’ s more , Lidl has released its very own perfect Paella recipe , so customers can create their very own Mediterranean inspired feast from the comfort of their casas .
Made using the Schwartz Paella Mix ( just 49p ) , this super @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guaranteed crowd pleaser .
• Defrost 200g Langostino raw prawns [ if they have the shell on , use 400g ] .
In a large lidded frying pan , fry 1 chopped onion , 125g chopped Iberian chorizo and 1 deseeded and sliced yellow pepper for 4-5 mins .
Add 300g Short Grain Rice for Paella .
Cook , stirring for 1 minute .
• Mix a 30g sachet Schwartz Paella mix with 1L cold water , add to the pan .
Bring to the boil , then simmer for 15-20 minutes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mostly absorbed and the rice is tender .
• Add the prawns , 100g frozen peas and 100g cherry tomatoes .
Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes , until the prawns are cooked through .
Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley , if liked .
All these and more can be picked up during your weekly shop , in store at Lidl from Thursday 7th May .

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Pastry fans will be pleased to hear that this week Lidl is launching Pasteis de Nata for just £2.69, alongside the return of its fan favourite Churros.
The traditional Portuguese treat, made up of indulgent egg custard and a flaky pastry tart, are kept in the freezer ready to be popped in the oven - perfect for a little afternoon pick me up or an after dinner treat.
Available to pick up in store from Thursday along with the weekly shop, Lidl is also bringing out it's wildly popular Churros, which are sure to be a hit with the whole household.
These sugary treats, made using choux pastry with a doughnut like texture, flew off shelves this time last year. Ready to heat up in no time, they’re delicious served with melted chocolate, toffee sauce or hazelnut spread.
What’s more, Lidl has released its very own perfect Paella recipe, so customers can create their very own Mediterranean inspired feast from the comfort of their casas. Made using the Schwartz Paella Mix (just 49p), this super simple recipe serves four and is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
Lidl’s Perfect Paella recipe
Serves : 4
Prep: 5 mins
Cook : 23-30 mins
Defrost 200g Langostino raw prawns [if they have the shell on, use 400g]. In a large lidded frying pan, fry 1 chopped onion, 125g chopped Iberian chorizo and 1 deseeded and sliced yellow pepper for 4-5 mins. Add 300g Short Grain Rice for Paella. Cook, stirring for 1 minute. Mix a 30g sachet Schwartz Paella mix with 1L cold water, add to the pan. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has mostly absorbed and the rice is tender. Add the prawns, 100g frozen peas and 100g cherry tomatoes. Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the prawns are cooked through. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley, if liked.
All these and more can be picked up during your weekly shop, in store at Lidl from Thursday 7th May.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Charities are fighting for survival after funding collapses during lockdown

Leading charities need urgent funding `` within a month '' to prevent them from folding , MPs say .
It follows warnings from charities that coronavirus and the lockdown have had a devestating impact on their incomes .
The Government has so far announced £750m in emergency funding for charities but this is not enough , according to a committee of MPs led by Solihull MP Julian Knight .
He is chair of the House of Commons Digital , Culture , Media and Sport Committee , which today published the findings of an inquiry into the challenges facing charities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are fighting for survival .
Traditional methods of generating incomehave dried up overnight .
Social distancing is making delivering services harder andmore costly .
Reserves are running out .
Smaller charities , in particular , are at risk ofimminent closure if adequate support is not provided . ''
And they warned that the Goverment had provided support to charities involved in healthcare and protecting people from covid-19 , but many other charities that play a vital role in society were in danger .
The MPs said : The Government ’ s support has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health and social care services on the frontline of tackling Covid-19 , as well as those supporting vulnerable people to cope with the crisis .
However , there remain many charities that do not fit these categories , and others doing work that , while not necessarily responding to Covid-19 , none the less enriches our society and will be needed once the crisis is over . ''
They called on the Government `` to increase the support available to charities through a comprehensive stabilisation fund , '' adding : `` It must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month , to prevent charities from folding . ''
It comes after charities submitted papers to the inquiry highlighting the impact the coronavirus crisis and lockdown has had on their incomes .
Sue Ryder , which provides support for people with terminal illnesses and neurological conditions , as well as for people suffering a bereavement , said it had suffered a `` devastating '' loss of income , Children 's charity Barnado 's said : `` Overnight our income has been slashed by £8m a month . ''
And a number of MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calling for `` emergency funding '' for charities .
The letter was signed by MPs including Walsall South MP Valerie Vaz ; Birmingham Hall Green MP Tahir Ali ; Birmingham Hodge Hill MP Liam Byrne ; Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey ; Birmingham Edgbaston MP Preet Kaur Gill ; Birmingham Perry Barr MP Khalid Mahmood ; Birmingham Selly Oak MP Steve MCabe , and Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips .
Mr Knight said : `` The strong message that charities gave us was not that they have some sort of right to survive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the services they provide .
“ We warned the Chancellor that charities told us they faced a £4bn gap in money coming in , with some smaller charities facing insolvency within weeks without immediate emergency support .
“ The sum of money that ’ s been made available goes nowhere near replacing the income that many charities have lost .
We ’ re urging the government to set up a stabilisation fund to assist organisations to stay afloat so that we avoid increasing hardship among those who depend on charities to help them @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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Leading charities need urgent funding "within a month" to prevent them from folding, MPs say.
It follows warnings from charities that coronavirus and the lockdown have had a devestating impact on their incomes.
The Government has so far announced £750m in emergency funding for charities but this is not enough, according to a committee of MPs led by Solihull MP Julian Knight.
He is chair of the House of Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, which today published the findings of an inquiry into the challenges facing charities.
The MPs said: "Many charities are fighting for survival. Traditional methods of generating incomehave dried up overnight. Social distancing is making delivering services harder andmore costly. Reserves are running out. Smaller charities, in particular, are at risk ofimminent closure if adequate support is not provided."
And they warned that the Goverment had provided support to charities involved in healthcare and protecting people from covid-19, but many other charities that play a vital role in society were in danger.
The MPs said: The Government’s support has so farprioritised those charities directly assisting the health and social care services on the frontline of tackling Covid-19, as well as those supporting vulnerable people to cope with the crisis. However, there remain many charities that do not fit these categories, and others doing work that, while not necessarily responding to Covid-19, none the less enriches our society and will be needed once the crisis is over."
They called on the Government "to increase the support available to charities through a comprehensive stabilisation fund," adding: "It must take these steps urgently, within a month, to prevent charities from folding."
It comes after charities submitted papers to the inquiry highlighting the impact the coronavirus crisis and lockdown has had on their incomes.
Sue Ryder, which provides support for people with terminal illnesses and neurological conditions, as well as for people suffering a bereavement, said it had suffered a "devastating" loss of income,
Children's charity Barnado's said: "Overnight our income has been slashed by £8m a month."
And a number of MPs earlier this month wrote to the Chancellor calling for "emergency funding" for charities.
The letter was signed by MPs including Walsall South MP Valerie Vaz; Birmingham Hall Green MP Tahir Ali; Birmingham Hodge Hill MP Liam Byrne; Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey; Birmingham Edgbaston MP Preet Kaur Gill; Birmingham Perry Barr MP Khalid Mahmood; Birmingham Selly Oak MP Steve MCabe, and Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips.
Mr Knight said: "The strong message that charities gave us was not that they have some sort of right to survive but that people have a right to the services they provide.
“We warned the Chancellor that charities told us they faced a £4bn gap in money coming in, with some smaller charities facing insolvency within weeks without immediate emergency support.
“The sum of money that’s been made available goes nowhere near replacing the income that many charities have lost. We’re urging the government to set up a stabilisation fund to assist organisations to stay afloat so that we avoid increasing hardship among those who depend on charities to help them during this crisis and beyond.”
A Government spokesperson said: "We are providing at pace an unprecedented package of government support so that charities can help vulnerable people that need it most.
"On top of the £750 million government funding which includes £200 million to hospices and £76 million to charities that support vulnerable children and those that have suffered domestic abuse, sexual abuse and modern slavery, charities can benefit from the coronavirus job retention scheme and the coronavirus business interruption loan scheme. We are working flat out to ensure help and support is directed as quickly as possible to the sector."


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Damning letter puts season in fresh doubt amid Albion's promotion push

The doctors of all 20 Premier League clubs have signed a letter to stress concerns about the restart , according to reports .
The Premier League and the EFL have been suspended for almost two months due to the coronavirus pandemic , which is still resulting in hundreds of lost lives on a daily basis in the UK .
Talks have been held about a possible restart and players are expected to return to training this month ahead of the season being restarted in June .
That is despite several clubs airing concerns over player welfare at the most recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Leeds United - who are both clear at the top of the Championship and on course for promotion - are watching the situation intently .
However , this latest revelation - as reported by The Athletic - adds fresh doubt to whether the season can actually be finished safely .
The doctors have allegedly written a detailed letter to the league ’ s medical advisor Mark Gillett and director of football Richard Garlick which highlights more than 100 questions which need to be answered before football can restart , behind closed doors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the following parts : • Approving guidelines that still carry risk of death • Liability , insurance and testing for players , staff and their families • Possible transmission via sweat and goalkeeper gloves • Suspicions that some clubs are already ignoring guidelines • Medics were invited to send their points anonymously to the Premier League Doctors Group ( PLDG ) on Sunday and these were collated before being forwarded to Gillett and Garlick on Monday .
While experts claim the risk to young people is n't as great as those over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still thousands of examples of people in perfect health being struck down by coronavirus .
The report adds : `` A 23-year-old midfielder at French club Montpellier — Junior Sambia , who was hospitalised with coronavirus — is given as an example of the condition not being limited to the elderly and those with co-morbidities . ''
The letter also highlights the mental health of players , some of whom have already revealed their dread at having to play out the season .
More details can be viewed here on The Athletic 's @ @ @ @ @ @

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The doctors of all 20 Premier League clubs have signed a letter to stress concerns about the restart, according to reports.
The Premier League and the EFL have been suspended for almost two months due to the coronavirus pandemic, which is still resulting in hundreds of lost lives on a daily basis in the UK.
Talks have been held about a possible restart and players are expected to return to training this month ahead of the season being restarted in June.
That is despite several clubs airing concerns over player welfare at the most recent meeting on Friday.
(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United - who are both clear at the top of the Championship and on course for promotion - are watching the situation intently.
However, this latest revelation - as reported by The Athletic - adds fresh doubt to whether the season can actually be finished safely.
The doctors have allegedly written a detailed letter to the league’s medical advisor Mark Gillett and director of football Richard Garlick which highlights more than 100 questions which need to be answered before football can restart, behind closed doors or not.
The letter is split into the following parts:
Approving guidelines that still carry risk of death
Liability, insurance and testing for players, staff and their families
Possible transmission via sweat and goalkeeper gloves
Suspicions that some clubs are already ignoring guidelines
Increased risk for black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) groups
Ability of emergency services to attend training ground incidents
Medics were invited to send their points anonymously to the Premier League Doctors Group (PLDG) on Sunday and these were collated before being forwarded to Gillett and Garlick on Monday.
While experts claim the risk to young people isn't as great as those over the age of 70, there are still thousands of examples of people in perfect health being struck down by coronavirus.
The report adds: "A 23-year-old midfielder at French club Montpellier — Junior Sambia, who was hospitalised with coronavirus — is given as an example of the condition not being limited to the elderly and those with co-morbidities."
The letter also highlights the mental health of players, some of whom have already revealed their dread at having to play out the season.
More details can be viewed here on The Athletic's website (subscription only).


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Church of England issues update on re-opening churches after lockdown

Churches could reopen in a `` phased '' way once lockdown measures begin to be lifted , Church of England leaders have said .
During a video-conference call on Tuesday the church 's House of Bishops agreed in principle to lifting the closure of church buildings `` in time and in parallel '' with the Government 's approach .
In a statement it said that members had agreed to three stages of re-opening church buildings once infection levels improve .
The first phase would allow `` very limited '' access for activities such as streaming services or private prayer by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hygiene precautions are taken , it added .
Some rites and ceremonies could then go ahead in phase two if permitted by law and if similar precautions are taken .
The final phase would allow worship with `` limited congregations '' so long as Government restrictions are eased enough to allow this .
At the meeting , led by Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally , the House of Bishops agreed that the decision on the timing of when to implement the revised advice on ministers or worship leaders praying and streaming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by individual diocesan bishops .
It stressed that this was guidance and not an instruction or law , and said that it will be constantly reviewed depending on the national situation .
National Church of England guidance will also be updated in the `` coming days '' with further advice on how the stages could be lifted , it added .
Bishop Sarah said : `` We are hugely grateful for all that our churches and clergy have been doing to support the Government 's message to stay at home , to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` While it is clear there will be no imminent return to normality , the emphasis is now turning towards how and when aspects of social distancing can be eased , although we remain mindful of the potential risks of a second wave of the virus .
`` Nevertheless , it now makes sense for us to start to look ahead to the potential easing of restrictions so that our clergy and churches can be prepared . ''

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Churches could reopen in a "phased" way once lockdown measures begin to be lifted, Church of England leaders have said.
During a video-conference call on Tuesday the church's House of Bishops agreed in principle to lifting the closure of church buildings "in time and in parallel" with the Government's approach.
In a statement it said that members had agreed to three stages of re-opening church buildings once infection levels improve.
The first phase would allow "very limited" access for activities such as streaming services or private prayer by clergy, so long as social distancing and hygiene precautions are taken, it added.
Some rites and ceremonies could then go ahead in phase two if permitted by law and if similar precautions are taken.
The final phase would allow worship with "limited congregations" so long as Government restrictions are eased enough to allow this.
At the meeting, led by Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally, the House of Bishops agreed that the decision on the timing of when to implement the revised advice on ministers or worship leaders praying and streaming from their church buildings should be made by individual diocesan bishops.
It stressed that this was guidance and not an instruction or law, and said that it will be constantly reviewed depending on the national situation.
National Church of England guidance will also be updated in the "coming days" with further advice on how the stages could be lifted, it added.
Bishop Sarah said: "We are hugely grateful for all that our churches and clergy have been doing to support the Government's message to stay at home, to support the NHS, and to save lives.
"While it is clear there will be no imminent return to normality, the emphasis is now turning towards how and when aspects of social distancing can be eased, although we remain mindful of the potential risks of a second wave of the virus.
"Nevertheless, it now makes sense for us to start to look ahead to the potential easing of restrictions so that our clergy and churches can be prepared."


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Selena Gomez set to present new lockdown cooking show

Selena Gomez is to star in a new cooking programme which will see her share recipes while stuck at home in quarantine .
Each episode of the series , which will air on the HBO Max streaming service , will see Gomez joined by a different chef .
The series will also highlight a different food-related charity each week .
Gomez , 27 , said : “ I ’ ve always been very vocal about my love of food .
“ I think I ’ ve been asked hundreds of times in interviews , if I had another career , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve answered that it would be fun to be a chef .
“ I definitely don ’ t have the formal training though .
“ Like many of us , while being home I find myself cooking more and experimenting in the kitchen.
” The unscripted 10-episode series is expected to air later this summer .
Sarah Aubrey , head of original content at HBO Max , said : “ We are so excited to have Selena Gomez in our first wave of programming on HBO Max and watch her adventures in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us , tries to improve her cooking skills during quarantine .
“ Blending her determination with top-tier culinary artists is sure to entertain and educate viewers about something we ’ re all trying to work through – how to make cooking at home exciting , fun and delicious .
”

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Selena Gomez is to star in a new cooking programme which will see her share recipes while stuck at home in quarantine.
Each episode of the series, which will air on the HBO Max streaming service, will see Gomez joined by a different chef.
The series will also highlight a different food-related charity each week.
Gomez, 27, said: “I’ve always been very vocal about my love of food.
“I think I’ve been asked hundreds of times in interviews, if I had another career, what would I do, and I’ve answered that it would be fun to be a chef.
“I definitely don’t have the formal training though.
“Like many of us, while being home I find myself cooking more and experimenting in the kitchen.”
The unscripted 10-episode series is expected to air later this summer.
Sarah Aubrey, head of original content at HBO Max, said: “We are so excited to have Selena Gomez in our first wave of programming on HBO Max and watch her adventures in the kitchen as she, like many of us, tries to improve her cooking skills during quarantine.
“Blending her determination with top-tier culinary artists is sure to entertain and educate viewers about something we’re all trying to work through – how to make cooking at home exciting, fun and delicious.”


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Aidan Gillen stars in new Fontaines DC music video A Hero’s Death

Game Of Thrones star Aidan Gillen stars in the new music video from Irish post-punk band Fontaines DC .
The group – nominated for the Mercury Prize last year – announced their new album A Hero ’ s Death will launch on July 31 .
The title track was released on Tuesday alongside a surreal music video starring Gillen , best known for playing Petyr “ Littlefinger ” Baelish in Game Of Thrones .
In the video , Gillen , a huge fan of the band , plays a charismatic chat-show host who finds himself disliked and overshadowed by his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Announcing the new album , a follow-up to the critically lauded Dogrel , the band said on Twitter : “ It feels like time hasn ’ t ticked since we announced our first record just over a year ago .
“ We wrote these songs during the 12 months after finishing Dogrel as a necessary reaction to assure ourselves we will always be the band we set out to be .
“ A sincere thank you to everyone who has supported our music since and before then.
” Fontaines DC – consisting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conor Curley , Conor Deegan III , Grian Chatten and Tom Coll – formed in Dublin in 2017 .
They were nominated for the Mercury Prize last year but lost out to London rapper Dave , who won for Psychodrama .

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Game Of Thrones star Aidan Gillen stars in the new music video from Irish post-punk band Fontaines DC.
The group – nominated for the Mercury Prize last year – announced their new album A Hero’s Death will launch on July 31.
The title track was released on Tuesday alongside a surreal music video starring Gillen, best known for playing Petyr “Littlefinger” Baelish in Game Of Thrones.
In the video, Gillen, a huge fan of the band, plays a charismatic chat-show host who finds himself disliked and overshadowed by his puppet co-host, as reality becomes blurred.
Announcing the new album, a follow-up to the critically lauded Dogrel, the band said on Twitter: “It feels like time hasn’t ticked since we announced our first record just over a year ago.
“We wrote these songs during the 12 months after finishing Dogrel as a necessary reaction to assure ourselves we will always be the band we set out to be.
“A sincere thank you to everyone who has supported our music since and before then.”
Fontaines DC – consisting of members Carlos O’Connell, Conor Curley, Conor Deegan III, Grian Chatten and Tom Coll – formed in Dublin in 2017.
They were nominated for the Mercury Prize last year but lost out to London rapper Dave, who won for Psychodrama.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Airbnb cuts 1,900 jobs after coronavirus hits bookings

Airbnb is laying off 25 % of its workforce as it confronts a steep decline in global travel due to the new coronavirus .
In a letter to employees , chief executive Brian Chesky said the company is letting 1,900 of its 7,500 workers go and cutting businesses that do not directly support home-sharing , such as its investments in hotels and movie production .
`` We are collectively living through the most harrowing crisis of our lifetime , '' Mr Chesky wrote .
He said Airbnb expects its revenue to drop by more than half this year .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least 14 weeks of their base pay .
US employees will continue to receive health care coverage for a year ; in other countries , employees will keep their health coverage through the end of this year .
Mr Chesky said travel will eventually return , but will look different .
Airbnb expects travellers will want options that are closer to home and more affordable , for example .
The company is scaling back its investments in luxury properties as a result .
Airbnb also recently announced a new cleaning protocol that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to make travellers feel more secure .

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Airbnb is laying off 25% of its workforce as it confronts a steep decline in global travel due to the new coronavirus.
In a letter to employees, chief executive Brian Chesky said the company is letting 1,900 of its 7,500 workers go and cutting businesses that do not directly support home-sharing, such as its investments in hotels and movie production.
"We are collectively living through the most harrowing crisis of our lifetime," Mr Chesky wrote. He said Airbnb expects its revenue to drop by more than half this year.
Mr Chesky said departing employees will receive at least 14 weeks of their base pay.
US employees will continue to receive health care coverage for a year; in other countries, employees will keep their health coverage through the end of this year.
Mr Chesky said travel will eventually return, but will look different.
Airbnb expects travellers will want options that are closer to home and more affordable, for example. The company is scaling back its investments in luxury properties as a result.
Airbnb also recently announced a new cleaning protocol that it is asks hosts to adhere to in order to make travellers feel more secure.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Euromillions results: Winning National Lottery numbers for Tuesday

It ’ s an exciting night for Euromillions players as Camelot plans to dish out multiple prizes to players across the UK .
The EuroMillions draw takes place every Tuesday and Friday at approximately 8pm .
The two special draws are being held to celebrate changes to the EuroMillions game which Camelot says will give players the chance of winning bigger jackpot prizes more often .
A spokesman for Camelot said : “ More prize money will go into the jackpot - plus there will be a prize cap increase to 200M Euros ( up from 190M Euros ) - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more often .
“ The changes , which will also see more special promotional draws in the year , came into effect from 1 February , with the first draw on Tuesday 4 February 2020 .
“ EuroMillions UK Millionaire Maker guarantees to create a millionaire in every draw , but in the EuroMillions draw on Tuesday , February 4 , an additional 19 lucky winners will be able to look forward to becoming an overnight millionaire .
For every EuroMillions line played , UK players automatically receive a EuroMillions Millionaire Maker code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Selection : - one UK millionaire has been created : MWQG90983

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It’s an exciting night for Euromillions players as Camelot plans to dish out multiple prizes to players across the UK.
The EuroMillions draw takes place every Tuesday and Friday at approximately 8pm.
The two special draws are being held to celebrate changes to the EuroMillions game which Camelot says will give players the chance of winning bigger jackpot prizes more often.
A spokesman for Camelot said: “More prize money will go into the jackpot - plus there will be a prize cap increase to 200M Euros (up from 190M Euros) - meaning an increased chance of bigger jackpots more often.
“The changes, which will also see more special promotional draws in the year, came into effect from 1 February, with the first draw on Tuesday 4 February 2020.
“EuroMillions UK Millionaire Maker guarantees to create a millionaire in every draw, but in the EuroMillions draw on Tuesday, February 4, an additional 19 lucky winners will be able to look forward to becoming an overnight millionaire. For every EuroMillions line played, UK players automatically receive a EuroMillions Millionaire Maker code printed on their ticket.”
Tonight's National Lottery EuroMillions winning numbers are: 02, 27, 22, 10, 41
Lucky Stars are: 03, 02
Tonight's estimated jackpot is £42 million
Millionaire Maker Selection: - one UK millionaire has been created: MWQG90983
The Thunderball winning numbers are: 06, 31, 33, 34, 39
The Thunderball is 13.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Villa look to Purslow & Premier League to resolve key contract issue

Premier League executives , including Aston Villa 's Christian Purslow will look for a definitive answer on extensions for expiring contracts when they meet again on Monday .
The Premier League was due to convene in their latest shareholder meeting on Friday , following the government ’ s announcement , but the meeting will now take place on Monday .
Boris Johnson is due to outline the ways in which he intends to ‘ unlock the various parts of the UK economy ’ , which was expected to take place on Thursday but has now been pushed back to Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season will run into the summer meaning players such as Willian , Jan Vertonghen and Adam Lallana will find themselves out of contract mid-season .
At Villa , first-teamers Danny Drinkwater and Pepe Reina will need to find extensions to their loan deals to complete the season at the club - while Matija Sarkic and Keinan Davis ' deals run out at the end of June .
Governing body FIFA have already approved plans to extend deals but there is no directive on whether it will be compulsory or not .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answers on what will happen to their out of contract stars in the coming weeks and what is right and what is wrong .
The report in The Telegraph also claims that chairmen are looking for guidelines on players loaned to EFL clubs , who often pay for a portion of the salary .
It adds that some top-flight clubs are in favour of waiving added loan fees and paying full salary if their players are needed to complete the season in the lower leagues .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Connor O'Neill, James Rushton)

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Premier League executives, including Aston Villa's Christian Purslow will look for a definitive answer on extensions for expiring contracts when they meet again on Monday.
The Premier League was due to convene in their latest shareholder meeting on Friday, following the government’s announcement, but the meeting will now take place on Monday.
Boris Johnson is due to outline the ways in which he intends to ‘unlock the various parts of the UK economy’, which was expected to take place on Thursday but has now been pushed back to Sunday.
But it now looks as though the season will run into the summer meaning players such as Willian, Jan Vertonghen and Adam Lallana will find themselves out of contract mid-season.
At Villa, first-teamers Danny Drinkwater and Pepe Reina will need to find extensions to their loan deals to complete the season at the club - while Matija Sarkic and Keinan Davis' deals run out at the end of June.
Governing body FIFA have already approved plans to extend deals but there is no directive on whether it will be compulsory or not.
As a result, executives at clubs want answers on what will happen to their out of contract stars in the coming weeks and what is right and what is wrong.
The report in The Telegraph also claims that chairmen are looking for guidelines on players loaned to EFL clubs, who often pay for a portion of the salary.
It adds that some top-flight clubs are in favour of waiving added loan fees and paying full salary if their players are needed to complete the season in the lower leagues.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Police search for missing Asda shopper who disappeared outside supermarket

Police have issued a missing persons appeal for a woman who disappeared after being spotted at an Asda supermarket .
West Midlands Police has confirmed officers are searching for Linda Perkins who has gone missing in Coventry .
Linda , aged 59 , was last seen at Asda on London Road at 5.30pm yesterday afternoon ( 4 May ) .
In an appeal issued via its website , West Midlands Police confirmed : `` We ’ re extremely concerned for her wellbeing and need to find her as soon as possible . ''
Linda is described as being 5ft 4ins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and short blonde hair , West Midlands Police confirmed .
She was last seen wearing a black leather jacket , light blue top , blue jeans and pink slippers , the appeal added .
CCTV photos of Linda at Asda have been released as part of the appeal , alongside a photo that police say is said to be a couple of years old .
If you ’ ve seen Linda or have any information on her whereabouts , please contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anytime .
In an emergency please dial 999 .

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Police have issued a missing persons appeal for a woman who disappeared after being spotted at an Asda supermarket.
West Midlands Police has confirmed officers are searching for Linda Perkins who has gone missing in Coventry.
Linda, aged 59, was last seen at Asda on London Road at 5.30pm yesterday afternoon (4 May).
In an appeal issued via its website, West Midlands Police confirmed: "We’re extremely concerned for her wellbeing and need to find her as soon as possible."
Linda is described as being 5ft 4ins tall.
She has a medium build and short blonde hair, West Midlands Police confirmed.
She was last seen wearing a black leather jacket, light blue top, blue jeans and pink slippers, the appeal added.
CCTV photos of Linda at Asda have been released as part of the appeal, alongside a photo that police say is said to be a couple of years old.
If you’ve seen Linda or have any information on her whereabouts, please contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight, or call the locate team on 101 anytime.
In an emergency please dial 999.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Damning letter plunges Premier League season into fresh doubt

The doctors of all 20 clubs have written to the Premier League to stress concerns about the restart , according to reports .
The Premier League has been suspended for almost two months due to the coronavirus pandemic , which is still resulting in hundreds of lost lives on a daily basis in the UK .
Talks have been held about a possible restart and Premier League players are expected to return to training this month ahead of the season being resumed in June .
That is despite several Premier League clubs airing concerns over player welfare at the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are one of the clubs believed to be concerned , while the idea of playing games at neutral venues has n't been welcomed by everyone .
Wolverhampton Wanderers , meanwhile , are keen to resume the season when it is safe to do so and their players are expected back at Compton Park in the next week .
However , this latest revelation - as reported by The Athletic - adds fresh doubt to whether the season can actually be finished safely .
The doctors have allegedly written a detailed letter to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and director of football Richard Garlick which highlights more than 100 questions which need to be answered before football can restart , behind closed doors or not .
The letter is split into the following parts : • Approving guidelines that still carry risk of death • Liability , insurance and testing for players , staff and their families • Possible transmission via sweat and goalkeeper gloves • Suspicions that some clubs are already ignoring guidelines • Medics were invited to send their points anonymously to the Premier League Doctors Group ( PLDG @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before being forwarded to Gillett and Garlick on Monday .
While experts claim the risk to young people is n't as great as those over the age of 70 , there are still thousands of examples of people in perfect health being struck down by coronavirus .
The report adds : `` A 23-year-old midfielder at French club Montpellier — Junior Sambia , who was hospitalised with coronavirus — is given as an example of the condition not being limited to the elderly and those with co-morbidities . ''
The letter also highlights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of whom have already revealed their dread at having to play out the season .
More details can be viewed here on The Athletic 's website ( subscription only ) .

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The doctors of all 20 clubs have written to the Premier League to stress concerns about the restart, according to reports.
The Premier League has been suspended for almost two months due to the coronavirus pandemic, which is still resulting in hundreds of lost lives on a daily basis in the UK.
Talks have been held about a possible restart and Premier League players are expected to return to training this month ahead of the season being resumed in June.
That is despite several Premier League clubs airing concerns over player welfare at the most recent meeting on Friday. Aston Villa are one of the clubs believed to be concerned, while the idea of playing games at neutral venues hasn't been welcomed by everyone.
Wolverhampton Wanderers, meanwhile, are keen to resume the season when it is safe to do so and their players are expected back at Compton Park in the next week.
However, this latest revelation - as reported by The Athletic - adds fresh doubt to whether the season can actually be finished safely.
The doctors have allegedly written a detailed letter to the league’s medical advisor Mark Gillett and director of football Richard Garlick which highlights more than 100 questions which need to be answered before football can restart, behind closed doors or not.
(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)
The letter is split into the following parts:
Approving guidelines that still carry risk of death
Liability, insurance and testing for players, staff and their families
Possible transmission via sweat and goalkeeper gloves
Suspicions that some clubs are already ignoring guidelines
Increased risk for black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) groups
Ability of emergency services to attend training ground incidents
Medics were invited to send their points anonymously to the Premier League Doctors Group (PLDG) on Sunday and these were collated before being forwarded to Gillett and Garlick on Monday.
While experts claim the risk to young people isn't as great as those over the age of 70, there are still thousands of examples of people in perfect health being struck down by coronavirus.
The report adds: "A 23-year-old midfielder at French club Montpellier — Junior Sambia, who was hospitalised with coronavirus — is given as an example of the condition not being limited to the elderly and those with co-morbidities."
The letter also highlights the mental health of players, some of whom have already revealed their dread at having to play out the season.
More details can be viewed here on The Athletic's website (subscription only).


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Ominous four word warning over second phase of lockdown issued by Dominic Raab

`` It wo n't be easy '' - that 's the message from Dominic Raab as the Foreign Secretary issued a stark warning to Brits at today 's press briefing .
Mr Raab led the government 's scientific briefing from 5pm at Downing Street , and discussed the second phase of the coronavirus pandemic .
He addressed reports the UK was due to move into the next phase of the lockdown - and issued an ominous warning to people across the UK .
Mr Raab warned `` we need to be under no illusions , the next stage wo n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are going to protect life and preserve our way of life , we must continue to be guided by the scientific advice we received and make sure that the next steps we take are sure-footed and sustainable , '' he said .
But he said ministers wanted `` to make sure that the next phase is more comfortable , is more sustainable and prevents lasting damage to jobs and livelihoods '' .
Mr Raab also said ministers are looking at sports being played behind closed doors in the second phase of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesman confirmed the possibility of easing restrictions outdoors was also under consideration in Westminster .
`` Broadly the scientific and medical experts have been clear that there is less likelihood of transmission of this disease outdoors than indoors , '' the spokesman said .
`` That will obviously be something we are considering as part of the review . ''
The prospect of the UK edging towards life after lockdown came as figures showed total of 32,375 deaths involving Covid-19 have now been registered across the UK .
The official number of Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which was first to experience the true horror of coronavirus , stood at 29,315 as of 5pm on May 5 , according to the ministry of health in Rome .
But the full picture in both countries will not be known for some time , and Downing Street warned against comparing deaths across different countries .

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"It won't be easy" - that's the message from Dominic Raab as the Foreign Secretary issued a stark warning to Brits at today's press briefing.
Mr Raab led the government's scientific briefing from 5pm at Downing Street, and discussed the second phase of the coronavirus pandemic.
He addressed reports the UK was due to move into the next phase of the lockdown - and issued an ominous warning to people across the UK.
Mr Raab warned "we need to be under no illusions, the next stage won't be easy".
"If we are going to protect life and preserve our way of life, we must continue to be guided by the scientific advice we received and make sure that the next steps we take are sure-footed and sustainable," he said.
(Image: PA)
But he said ministers wanted "to make sure that the next phase is more comfortable, is more sustainable and prevents lasting damage to jobs and livelihoods".
Mr Raab also said ministers are looking at sports being played behind closed doors in the second phase of the coronavirus response.
The Prime Minister's official spokesman confirmed the possibility of easing restrictions outdoors was also under consideration in Westminster.
"Broadly the scientific and medical experts have been clear that there is less likelihood of transmission of this disease outdoors than indoors," the spokesman said.
"That will obviously be something we are considering as part of the review."
The prospect of the UK edging towards life after lockdown came as figures showed total of 32,375 deaths involving Covid-19 have now been registered across the UK.
The official number of Covid-19 deaths in Italy, the European country which was first to experience the true horror of coronavirus, stood at 29,315 as of 5pm on May 5, according to the ministry of health in Rome.
But the full picture in both countries will not be known for some time, and Downing Street warned against comparing deaths across different countries.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Man killed by water buffalo in Monmouthshire with two others injured

A man has died and two people have been injured after reportedly being attacked by a water buffalo , police said .
Emergency services were called to a commercial property in Gwehelog , Monmouthshire , at about 2.50pm on Tuesday .
It was reported that two men and a woman had been attacked by a water buffalo .
A statement from Gwent Police said : `` We received a report of an incident at a commercial property in Gwehelog , Monmouthshire , at around 2.50pm on Tuesday 5 May , after two men and a woman were attacked by a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Gwehelog area was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics from Wales Ambulance Service .
`` A 19-year-old man from the Gwehelog area sustained critical injuries during the incident .
He has been taken to the University Hospital for Wales for treatment by the Welsh Air Ambulance .
`` A 22-year-old woman from the Gwehelog area sustained a serious injury to her leg .
Her injuries are not thought to be critical and she has been taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital for treatment by the Wales Ambulance Service .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Officers received assistance from the National Police Air Service ( NPAS ) at the scene . ''
No further details about where the incident took place have been reported .

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A man has died and two people have been injured after reportedly being attacked by a water buffalo, police said.
Emergency services were called to a commercial property in Gwehelog, Monmouthshire, at about 2.50pm on Tuesday.
It was reported that two men and a woman had been attacked by a water buffalo.
A statement from Gwent Police said: "We received a report of an incident at a commercial property in Gwehelog, Monmouthshire, at around 2.50pm on Tuesday 5 May, after two men and a woman were attacked by a water buffalo.
"A 57-year-old man from the Gwehelog area was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics from Wales Ambulance Service.
"A 19-year-old man from the Gwehelog area sustained critical injuries during the incident. He has been taken to the University Hospital for Wales for treatment by the Welsh Air Ambulance.
"A 22-year-old woman from the Gwehelog area sustained a serious injury to her leg. Her injuries are not thought to be critical and she has been taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital for treatment by the Wales Ambulance Service.
"The water buffalo has been destroyed.
"Officers received assistance from the National Police Air Service (NPAS) at the scene."
No further details about where the incident took place have been reported.


birminghammail--2020-05-05--Professor behind UK lockdown resigns after 'meeting lover'

A senior government science advisor has quit after breaching lockdown rules to meet his lover , it has been claimed .
Boris Johnson put Britain into lockdown on March 23 based on Professor Neil Ferguson 's advice , The Mirror reports .
But it 's claimed he broke the social distancing guidelines when his lover travelled across London on two occasions to spend time with him .
Professor Ferguson , who is an infectious disease epidemiologist at Imperial College London , said he believed he was immune to the virus after self-isolating with symptoms in March .
Nicknamed `` Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government 's SAGE committee , which provides advice to ministers on their response to the pandemic .
He also sat on the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group ( NERVTAG ) .
He is understood to have resigned from both bodies .
Prof Ferguson led the team that produced research claiming more than 500,000 people would die from the virus in the UK unless lockdown restrictions were introduced .
The Professor told the Telegraph : `` I accept I made an error of judgement and took the wrong course of action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from my involvement in SAGE [ the government 's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ] .
“ I acted in the belief that I was immune , having tested positive for coronavirus and completely isolated myself for almost two weeks after developing symptoms . ''
He added : “ I deeply regret any undermining of the clear messages around the continued need for social distancing to control this devastating epidemic .
“ The Government guidance is unequivocal , and is there to protect all of us.
” On March 18 , Professor Ferguson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dry cough and fever .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Mikey Smith, Stephanie Balloo)

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A senior government science advisor has quit after breaching lockdown rules to meet his lover, it has been claimed.
Boris Johnson put Britain into lockdown on March 23 based on Professor Neil Ferguson's advice, The Mirror reports.
But it's claimed he broke the social distancing guidelines when his lover travelled across London on two occasions to spend time with him.
Professor Ferguson, who is an infectious disease epidemiologist at Imperial College London, said he believed he was immune to the virus after self-isolating with symptoms in March.
Nicknamed "Professor Lockdown", he sat on the government's SAGE committee, which provides advice to ministers on their response to the pandemic.
He also sat on the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG). He is understood to have resigned from both bodies.
Prof Ferguson led the team that produced research claiming more than 500,000 people would die from the virus in the UK unless lockdown restrictions were introduced.
The Professor told the Telegraph: "I accept I made an error of judgement and took the wrong course of action.
"I have therefore stepped back from my involvement in SAGE [the government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies].
“I acted in the belief that I was immune, having tested positive for coronavirus and completely isolated myself for almost two weeks after developing symptoms."
He added: “I deeply regret any undermining of the clear messages around the continued need for social distancing to control this devastating epidemic.
“The Government guidance is unequivocal, and is there to protect all of us.”
On March 18, Professor Ferguson said he was self-isolating after developing a dry cough and fever.