birminghammail--2020-03-05--Joseph McCann review finds police were warned over serial rapist eight years before sex attack spree

Probation , police and prison authorities were warned of the risk a serial rapist posed eight years before he carried out a sex attack spree , an official review found .
Joseph McCann was handed 33 life sentences and jailed for a minimum term of 30 years in December for the string of attacks on 11 women and children last year .
But officials were warned as early as 2011 that he had the hallmarks of a sex offender – and later probation officers missed eight chances to keep him behind bars , according to the report from the Ministry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by his sentencing judge as a “ classic psychopath ” , the 34-year-old convicted burglar had been freed after a probation service error two months before he embarked on the cocaine and vodka-fuelled rampage .
The review , published on Thursday , said at a meeting of police , probation and prison officials in 2011 , “ police shared information which dated back to 2003 suggesting McCann might pose a risk of sexual harm and exploitation to teenage girls ” .
Alan Collins , one of the lawyers representing McCann ’ s victims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ horrific to think that all of this was completely avoidable .
“ They placed McCann ’ s interests ahead of those of the general public.
” Prison staff also intercepted two sets of letters from McCann , with “ disturbing contents and one of the letters was addressed to his offender manager ” .
Some of the contents “ indicated he posed a risk of sexual harm ” and a number of psychological assessments were carried out on him .
Probation staff repeatedly failed to recall serial rapist Joseph McCann to prison despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the report also found .
The findings have prompted the MoJ to ask chief inspector of probation , Justin Russell , to carry out an independent review of the National Probation Service ’ s management of McCann and how the process of recalling offenders to prison is working .
McCann had a string of convictions in the North West and South East of England , having received his first term behind bars at the age of 15 .
While he had no convictions for sexual offences , he did have a history of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crimes included escaping custody by grabbing and threatening a female security guard with a plastic knife , possessing a blade , robbery and two burglaries .
When McCann broke the law again while out on licence in 2017 , he should have been recalled to prison under the terms of an indeterminate sentence for the public protection ( IPP ) – which he was handed in 2008 after admitting burgling the home of an 85-year-old man .
This would have ensured the Parole Board had to decide whether he was safe before his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freed from jail after serving a fixed prison term – known as a standard determinate sentence .
Since his release in February 2019 , McCann was seen by probation officers 10 times in two months .
The last occasion was on April 19 , three days before he carried out his first rape .
Over 15 days , he abducted , raped and assaulted victims aged between 11 and 71 in Watford , London and the North West .
A jury found him guilty of 37 charges relating to 11 victims , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The findings of the MoJ ’ s internal investigation – known as a serious further offence review – are not routinely published but the department , which is responsible for probation , came under pressure to do so in this case .
The report criticised a lack of “ exploration of sexual deviance ” in McCann ’ s case , saying : “ The pertinent risk concerns of the case were lost in the numerous handovers between offender managers , as well as failures to comprehensively consider historical intelligence.
” It added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the staff throughout 2018 and the chaotic transfer of the case between numerous offender managers also significantly impacted their ability to comprehensively review McCann ’ s historical record , and therefore to identify the previous references to sexual violence .
“ Had offender managers reviewed the historical records , including the police intelligence , they might have instigated one to one work with McCann to address sexual violence .
“ However , aside from this historical intelligence from 2003 and the letters intercepted by the prison in 2009 , there were no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and this failure should be viewed in this context.
” According to the report , the “ most significant failing ” by the National Probation Service ’ s South East and Eastern division was the “ repeated failure to recall Joseph McCann or to reflect critically on earlier decisions not to recall him , in the face of both court and prison staff communicating their concerns .
“ From the point where McCann was arrested for burglary in 2017 to the point of his release , there were eight occasions where recall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questioned .
“ If the probation service had recalled McCann he would not have been released until the Parole Board was satisfied his release could be managed in the community.
” Of four probation staff who were directly involved in McCann ’ s case , one was demoted .
An earlier investigation resulted in one member of staff involved with McCann being dismissed and an agency worker ’ s contract being terminated for “ poor performance ” , although it was not thought to be directly related to the case .

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Probation, police and prison authorities were warned of the risk a serial rapist posed eight years before he carried out a sex attack spree, an official review found.
Joseph McCann was handed 33 life sentences and jailed for a minimum term of 30 years in December for the string of attacks on 11 women and children last year.
But officials were warned as early as 2011 that he had the hallmarks of a sex offender – and later probation officers missed eight chances to keep him behind bars, according to the report from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ).
Described by his sentencing judge as a “classic psychopath”, the 34-year-old convicted burglar had been freed after a probation service error two months before he embarked on the cocaine and vodka-fuelled rampage.
The review, published on Thursday, said at a meeting of police, probation and prison officials in 2011, “police shared information which dated back to 2003 suggesting McCann might pose a risk of sexual harm and exploitation to teenage girls”.
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Alan Collins, one of the lawyers representing McCann’s victims, said: “It’s horrific to think that all of this was completely avoidable.
“They placed McCann’s interests ahead of those of the general public.”
Prison staff also intercepted two sets of letters from McCann, with “disturbing contents and one of the letters was addressed to his offender manager”.
(Image: Metropolitan Police/PA Wire)
Some of the contents “indicated he posed a risk of sexual harm” and a number of psychological assessments were carried out on him.
Probation staff repeatedly failed to recall serial rapist Joseph McCann to prison despite concerns being raised by other officials, the report also found.
The findings have prompted the MoJ to ask chief inspector of probation, Justin Russell, to carry out an independent review of the National Probation Service’s management of McCann and how the process of recalling offenders to prison is working.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
McCann had a string of convictions in the North West and South East of England, having received his first term behind bars at the age of 15.
While he had no convictions for sexual offences, he did have a history of violence and threats towards his partners.
Crimes included escaping custody by grabbing and threatening a female security guard with a plastic knife, possessing a blade, robbery and two burglaries.
When McCann broke the law again while out on licence in 2017, he should have been recalled to prison under the terms of an indeterminate sentence for the public protection (IPP) – which he was handed in 2008 after admitting burgling the home of an 85-year-old man.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
This would have ensured the Parole Board had to decide whether he was safe before his release.
Instead, he was automatically freed from jail after serving a fixed prison term – known as a standard determinate sentence.
Since his release in February 2019, McCann was seen by probation officers 10 times in two months.
The last occasion was on April 19, three days before he carried out his first rape.
Over 15 days, he abducted, raped and assaulted victims aged between 11 and 71 in Watford, London and the North West.
A jury found him guilty of 37 charges relating to 11 victims, including eight rapes, false imprisonment and kidnap.
The findings of the MoJ’s internal investigation – known as a serious further offence review – are not routinely published but the department, which is responsible for probation, came under pressure to do so in this case.
The report criticised a lack of “exploration of sexual deviance” in McCann’s case, saying: “The pertinent risk concerns of the case were lost in the numerous handovers between offender managers, as well as failures to comprehensively consider historical intelligence.”
It added: “It appears that the pressure on the staff throughout 2018 and the chaotic transfer of the case between numerous offender managers also significantly impacted their ability to comprehensively review McCann’s historical record, and therefore to identify the previous references to sexual violence.
“Had offender managers reviewed the historical records, including the police intelligence, they might have instigated one to one work with McCann to address sexual violence.
“However, aside from this historical intelligence from 2003 and the letters intercepted by the prison in 2009, there were no more recent indicators of concerning sexual behaviour, and this failure should be viewed in this context.”
(Image: PA)
According to the report, the “most significant failing” by the National Probation Service’s South East and Eastern division was the “repeated failure to recall Joseph McCann or to reflect critically on earlier decisions not to recall him, in the face of both court and prison staff communicating their concerns.
“From the point where McCann was arrested for burglary in 2017 to the point of his release, there were eight occasions where recall was considered or the recall decision was questioned.
“These all represented opportunities to recall.
“If the probation service had recalled McCann he would not have been released until the Parole Board was satisfied his release could be managed in the community.”
(Image: PA)
Of four probation staff who were directly involved in McCann’s case, one was demoted.
An earlier investigation resulted in one member of staff involved with McCann being dismissed and an agency worker’s contract being terminated for “poor performance”, although it was not thought to be directly related to the case.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Harvey Weinstein moved to New York jail after hospital treatment

Harvey Weinstein , who was admitted to hospital following his conviction last month on rape and sexual assault charges , is being moved to Rikers Island jail , one of his lawyers said .
Arthur Aidala said the disgraced former movie mogul will be held in an infirmary at New York City 's sprawling jail complex .
After a judge revoked Weinstein 's bail on February 24 , he was taken to Bellevue Hospital over concerns about high blood pressure and heart palpitations .
Weinstein spokesman Juda Engel Engelmayer said on Thursday that Weinstein had a heart procedure at Bellevue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would not go into further detail .
The 67-year-old is `` obviously not the picture of health '' , said Mr Aidala , who saw his client at the hospital on Thursday morning .
`` He 's obviously not happy where he is .
But he 's lucid and realistic about everything .
He 's still in a state of disbelief . ''
Weinstein is due back in court on Wednesday to face sentencing after his conviction for forcibly performing oral sex on a woman in 2006 and third-degree rape for a 2013 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminal sex act count , he faces a minimum of five years in prison and a maximum of 25 years in prison , while the third-degree rape count carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison .

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Harvey Weinstein, who was admitted to hospital following his conviction last month on rape and sexual assault charges, is being moved to Rikers Island jail, one of his lawyers said.
Arthur Aidala said the disgraced former movie mogul will be held in an infirmary at New York City's sprawling jail complex.
After a judge revoked Weinstein's bail on February 24, he was taken to Bellevue Hospital over concerns about high blood pressure and heart palpitations.
Weinstein spokesman Juda Engel Engelmayer said on Thursday that Weinstein had a heart procedure at Bellevue that was "deemed successful" but would not go into further detail.
The 67-year-old is "obviously not the picture of health", said Mr Aidala, who saw his client at the hospital on Thursday morning. "He's obviously not happy where he is. But he's lucid and realistic about everything. He's still in a state of disbelief."
(Image: Getty Images)
Weinstein is due back in court on Wednesday to face sentencing after his conviction for forcibly performing oral sex on a woman in 2006 and third-degree rape for a 2013 attack on another woman.
On the criminal sex act count, he faces a minimum of five years in prison and a maximum of 25 years in prison, while the third-degree rape count carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Met Police officer arrested for ‘membership of right wing terror group’

A serving Metropolitan Police officer has been arrested on suspicion of being a member of a banned right wing terror group .
The constable , 21 , was held by counter-terrorism officers on Thursday at an address in north London , where a search is being carried out .
The officer , who works in `` frontline policing '' , has been taken to a south London police station , where he remains in custody .
The Met said the arrest relates to suspected membership of a proscribed organisation linked to right wing terrorism , but there is nothing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wider public .
Anyone convicted of being a member of , or offering support to , banned terrorist groups can face up to 10 years in jail .
The arrest comes after MPs backed a ban on membership of more right-wing groups last month .
Sonnenkrieg Division became the second right-wing group to be proscribed in the United Kingdom .
The law also recognised System Resistance Network as an alias of the neo-Nazi group National Action , which was the first to be banned in December 2016 .
Scotland Yard said the force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told and the officer 's status is `` under review '' .
The case has also been referred to the Independent Office of Police Conduct ( IOPC ) watchdog .
An IOPC spokesman said : `` We have received a referral from the Metropolitan Police Service and are now assessing it determine the level of IOPC involvement in any investigation . ''

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A serving Metropolitan Police officer has been arrested on suspicion of being a member of a banned right wing terror group.
The constable, 21, was held by counter-terrorism officers on Thursday at an address in north London, where a search is being carried out.
The officer, who works in "frontline policing", has been taken to a south London police station, where he remains in custody.
The Met said the arrest relates to suspected membership of a proscribed organisation linked to right wing terrorism, but there is nothing to suggest there is any threat to the wider public.
Anyone convicted of being a member of, or offering support to, banned terrorist groups can face up to 10 years in jail.
The arrest comes after MPs backed a ban on membership of more right-wing groups last month.
Sonnenkrieg Division became the second right-wing group to be proscribed in the United Kingdom.
The law also recognised System Resistance Network as an alias of the neo-Nazi group National Action, which was the first to be banned in December 2016.
Scotland Yard said the force's directorate of professional standards has been told and the officer's status is "under review".
The case has also been referred to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) watchdog.
An IOPC spokesman said: "We have received a referral from the Metropolitan Police Service and are now assessing it determine the level of IOPC involvement in any investigation."


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Meghan Markle wears Victoria Beckham dress to end their 'rift' over 'leaked stories'

The Duchess of Sussex stepped out in a vivid light blue Victoria Beckham dress as she began her final run of royal duties .
Meghan , who is quitting the monarchy to mostly live in North America , chose the British brand set up by the former Spice Girl for her appearance at the Endeavour Fund Awards in London .
It comes after Meghan was rumoured to have fallen out with Victoria , causing tension between Prince Harry and David .
Fashion bloggers @ WhatMeghanWore described the duchess as looking `` beautiful in blue '' .
The block-colour fitted midi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a long zip fastening on the back .
It is described on the fashion brand 's website as being `` inspired by the simplicity of a T-shirt '' and `` creating an elongated and feminine silhouette '' .
Meghan wore her hair up in a sleek ponytail , and her towering stilettos were Manolo Blahnik 's BB pumps in navy .
Victoria and her husband , former England footballer David Beckham , were among the guests at Harry and Meghan 's star-studded royal wedding in 2018 .
The former singer launched her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actress Meghan feared Victoria Beckham was leaking stories about her to the press , a source has claimed .
Meghan had reportedly grown tired of leaked stories making the press - and became concerned over her friendship with the former Spice Girls star .
Prince Harry is said to have tackled the speculation 'head on ' - opting to speak to ex-England football captain David .
Harry and the former Real Madrid , Manchester United and Paris Saint Germain midfielder have enjoyed a friendly relationship over the years .
`` Harry was very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pretty awkward exchange and David was mortified , '' the source told The Sun .
A source told The Sun : “ Inexplicably , [ Meghan ] feared Victoria was behind it — I mean , the idea that Victoria Beckham would be personally ringing journalists to give them a scoop is ridiculous — and spoke to Harry about it .
“ Harry is very protective of Meghan , and decided to deal with the matter head-on , by directly contacting his good pal , David . ''
The source continued : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two men agreed to move on — but it certainly made things awkward for a while .
It later turned out the leak probably came from a beauty salon .
Afterwards , they got things back on track , but it took a few months . ''
Followers of the duchess 's sartorial choices Meghansfashion.com described her as looking `` terrific in turquoise '' .

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The Duchess of Sussex stepped out in a vivid light blue Victoria Beckham dress as she began her final run of royal duties.
Meghan, who is quitting the monarchy to mostly live in North America, chose the British brand set up by the former Spice Girl for her appearance at the Endeavour Fund Awards in London.
It comes after Meghan was rumoured to have fallen out with Victoria, causing tension between Prince Harry and David.
Fashion bloggers @WhatMeghanWore described the duchess as looking "beautiful in blue".
The block-colour fitted midi pencil dress costs around £950, and has a long zip fastening on the back.
It is described on the fashion brand's website as being "inspired by the simplicity of a T-shirt" and "creating an elongated and feminine silhouette".
Meghan wore her hair up in a sleek ponytail, and her towering stilettos were Manolo Blahnik's BB pumps in navy.
Victoria and her husband, former England footballer David Beckham, were among the guests at Harry and Meghan's star-studded royal wedding in 2018.
The former singer launched her fashion label in 2008.
Former Suits actress Meghan feared Victoria Beckham was leaking stories about her to the press, a source has claimed.
Meghan had reportedly grown tired of leaked stories making the press - and became concerned over her friendship with the former Spice Girls star.
Prince Harry is said to have tackled the speculation 'head on' - opting to speak to ex-England football captain David.
Harry and the former Real Madrid, Manchester United and Paris Saint Germain midfielder have enjoyed a friendly relationship over the years.
"Harry was very polite, but obviously it was a pretty awkward exchange and David was mortified," the source told The Sun.
A source told The Sun: “Inexplicably, [Meghan] feared Victoria was behind it — I mean, the idea that Victoria Beckham would be personally ringing journalists to give them a scoop is ridiculous — and spoke to Harry about it.
“Harry is very protective of Meghan, and decided to deal with the matter head-on, by directly contacting his good pal, David."
The source continued: "He quickly put Harry right, and the two men agreed to move on — but it certainly made things awkward for a while. It later turned out the leak probably came from a beauty salon. Afterwards, they got things back on track, but it took a few months."
Meghan was carrying a Stella McCartney Lucia clutch. McCartney designed the duchess's halter neck evening wedding gown.
Followers of the duchess's sartorial choices Meghansfashion.com described her as looking "terrific in turquoise".


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Prince William forced to apologise to Kate Middleton after discussing Aston Villa on royal visit

The Duke of Cambridge jokingly apologised to his wife for talking football in the pub when the couple sat in on a traditional Irish music session in Galway .
When William met a fellow Aston Villa fan , he could not resist chatting about the fortunes of their team who are struggling in the Premier league and recently lost to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final .
The couple were visiting the Galway tavern Tig Coili to sample Irish pub culture , and the duke made a beeline for Colm O'Flaherty , a son of the pub owner , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blue supporter .
But not before turning to Kate and saying : `` Sorry . ''
Colm , 36 , said : `` He asked me if Villa were going to stay up , and I was n't sure how to answer .
I 'm not too confident .
I do n't think he was too sure either .
We live in hope , as they say . ''
When the couple first arrived , they were given a bottle of Midleton whiskey from Cork and two engraved tumblers by pub owner Colie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the label described it as `` very rare '' - and tactfully overlooking the fact that the whiskey was spelt differently to his wife 's maiden name - the duke turned to the duchess and joked : `` Very rare .
One in a million . ''
Inside , after meeting volunteers who have won awards for their work in the community , they joined a group of musicians , including fiddle player Ronan O'Flaherty , 34 , another of the landlord 's sons .
As William chatted with Ronan while he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three-month-old son Danann , who was sitting on the lap of his French mother , Lassa , 30 , and held the baby 's hand .
Lassa said : `` We chatted about the music , and the fact that Danann is going to grow older surrounded by Irish music .
I asked if they were having a great trip , and she said they were really enjoying it .
`` They noticed all the Guinness on the table , and they asked if we always had it that early . ''
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the onlookers suggested to William that next time he could join in .
William replied , pointing to the array of glasses , `` I can do that '' then , pointing to Ronan and his fiddle , he added : `` I 'm not sure I can do that . ''
Hundreds of well-wishers had gathered in Galway city centre to greet the couple , as their three-day tour of Ireland came to an end , and they went on a walkabout shaking hands after the pub visit .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ William heard Cillian Deeley , eight , shout out `` Up Villa . ''
William walked over and told him : `` You 've made my day .
Can I have a hug ? ''
After the hug William , asked Cillian , from Sligo , if he supported any other team .
On being told Manchester United , he said : `` Be careful . ''
The couple also came across Tom Prenderville , 11 , who , with his floppy blond hair , bore a striking resemblance to their son Prince @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deputy principal of St Patrick 's primary school , said when Kate was told this : `` She bent down and looked into his eyes , and said , 'You know what , you do .
But you have brown eyes - George has blue . '
`` Then William came along and said , 'You do - there is a resemblance ' . ''

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The Duke of Cambridge jokingly apologised to his wife for talking football in the pub when the couple sat in on a traditional Irish music session in Galway.
When William met a fellow Aston Villa fan, he could not resist chatting about the fortunes of their team who are struggling in the Premier league and recently lost to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final.
The couple were visiting the Galway tavern Tig Coili to sample Irish pub culture, and the duke made a beeline for Colm O'Flaherty, a son of the pub owner, when told he was another claret and blue supporter.
But not before turning to Kate and saying: "Sorry."
Colm, 36, said: "He asked me if Villa were going to stay up, and I wasn't sure how to answer. I'm not too confident. I don't think he was too sure either. We live in hope, as they say."
When the couple first arrived, they were given a bottle of Midleton whiskey from Cork and two engraved tumblers by pub owner Colie O'Flaherty and his son Aonghus.
Noticing that the label described it as "very rare" - and tactfully overlooking the fact that the whiskey was spelt differently to his wife's maiden name - the duke turned to the duchess and joked: "Very rare. One in a million."
Inside, after meeting volunteers who have won awards for their work in the community, they joined a group of musicians, including fiddle player Ronan O'Flaherty, 34, another of the landlord's sons.
As William chatted with Ronan while he played, Kate was entranced by his three-month-old son Danann, who was sitting on the lap of his French mother, Lassa, 30, and held the baby's hand.
Lassa said: "We chatted about the music, and the fact that Danann is going to grow older surrounded by Irish music. I asked if they were having a great trip, and she said they were really enjoying it.
"They noticed all the Guinness on the table, and they asked if we always had it that early."
As they got up from the session, one of the onlookers suggested to William that next time he could join in.
William replied, pointing to the array of glasses, "I can do that" then, pointing to Ronan and his fiddle, he added: "I'm not sure I can do that."
Hundreds of well-wishers had gathered in Galway city centre to greet the couple, as their three-day tour of Ireland came to an end, and they went on a walkabout shaking hands after the pub visit.
The conversation turned once more to football when William heard Cillian Deeley, eight, shout out "Up Villa."
William walked over and told him: "You've made my day. Can I have a hug?"
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
After the hug William, asked Cillian, from Sligo, if he supported any other team.
On being told Manchester United, he said: "Be careful."
The couple also came across Tom Prenderville, 11, who, with his floppy blond hair, bore a striking resemblance to their son Prince George, six.
Joan Coughlan, deputy principal of St Patrick's primary school, said when Kate was told this: "She bent down and looked into his eyes, and said, 'You know what, you do. But you have brown eyes - George has blue.'
"Then William came along and said, 'You do - there is a resemblance'."


birminghammail--2020-03-05--ITV boss finally speaks out over Caroline Flack's 'unbelievably tragic' death

The boss of ITV has described the death of Caroline Flack as `` unbelievably tragic '' and said that people can never know the reasons behind suicide .
Dame Carolyn McCall spoke at a conference in London where she addressed the death of former Love Island host Flack , who took her own life last month aged 40 .
The broadcasting chief said ITV staff had been `` absolutely devastated '' by the news .
She told Enders and Deloitte 's Media And Telecoms 2020 And Beyond conference : `` I think the thing about Caroline Flack is that ITV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her .
`` So many people at ITV knew Caroline , including me , and it was unbelievably tragic .
`` I think that we can never know what is behind suicide .
It is not in any way simple .
It is a very , very complex thing .
`` We take advice from ( mental health charities ) Samaritans and Mind and we will continue to do that . ''
Flack died at her east London home while awaiting trial on an assault charge .
Dame Carolyn reaffirmed her channel 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its work with Dr Paul Litchfield .
The deaths of former Love Island contestants Sophie Gradon and Mike Thalassitis , and The Jeremy Kyle Show guest Steve Dymond , prompted increased scrutiny on ITV over its aftercare .
Dame Carolyn said : `` As far as duty of care is concerned , we are absolutely focused on making sure our duty of care is , for both our participants and for our talent , world class .
We want to be best in class for that .
`` I think because we reviewed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few months before last summer 's series , Paul Litchfield , who is the former CMO , works with us , and he made a whole load of recommendations which we have implemented , which is about aftercare , which is about casting , which is about a whole range of things - financial management , social media management .
`` Social media is the thing that has gone absolutely ballistic .
It has actually only happened in the last three years , because in the first two years ( Love Island ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't really a successful programme .
It has only really made a big difference in the regionals three years ago on social media .
`` We take that very serious and we are actually working with the industry on how we can share all of that and how we can learn and pool our resources , so we can learn from each other .
So that is what we are doing . ''
After ruling herself out of the race to succeed Lord Tony Hall as the BBC 's director-general earlier in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be `` fantastic '' if the corporation was led by a woman .
`` I think the BBC genuinely needs the best person for the job and if that is a woman that would be fantastic , '' she said .
`` But I think the BBC has a huge amount of work cut out for it and needs the very best person for the job . ''

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The boss of ITV has described the death of Caroline Flack as "unbelievably tragic" and said that people can never know the reasons behind suicide.
Dame Carolyn McCall spoke at a conference in London where she addressed the death of former Love Island host Flack, who took her own life last month aged 40.
The broadcasting chief said ITV staff had been "absolutely devastated" by the news.
She told Enders and Deloitte's Media And Telecoms 2020 And Beyond conference: "I think the thing about Caroline Flack is that ITV are absolutely devastated by what happened to her.
(Image: Getty)
"So many people at ITV knew Caroline, including me, and it was unbelievably tragic.
"I think that we can never know what is behind suicide. It is not in any way simple. It is a very, very complex thing.
"We take advice from (mental health charities) Samaritans and Mind and we will continue to do that."
Flack died at her east London home while awaiting trial on an assault charge.
(Image: PA)
Dame Carolyn reaffirmed her channel's commitment to duty of care, highlighting its work with Dr Paul Litchfield.
The deaths of former Love Island contestants Sophie Gradon and Mike Thalassitis, and The Jeremy Kyle Show guest Steve Dymond, prompted increased scrutiny on ITV over its aftercare.
Dame Carolyn said: "As far as duty of care is concerned, we are absolutely focused on making sure our duty of care is, for both our participants and for our talent, world class. We want to be best in class for that.
"I think because we reviewed Love Island last summer, so a few months before last summer's series, Paul Litchfield, who is the former CMO, works with us, and he made a whole load of recommendations which we have implemented, which is about aftercare, which is about casting, which is about a whole range of things - financial management, social media management.
"Social media is the thing that has gone absolutely ballistic. It has actually only happened in the last three years, because in the first two years (Love Island) was too small.
"It wasn't really a successful programme. It has only really made a big difference in the regionals three years ago on social media.
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"We take that very serious and we are actually working with the industry on how we can share all of that and how we can learn and pool our resources, so we can learn from each other. So that is what we are doing."
After ruling herself out of the race to succeed Lord Tony Hall as the BBC's director-general earlier in the day, Dame Carolyn said it would be "fantastic" if the corporation was led by a woman.
"I think the BBC genuinely needs the best person for the job and if that is a woman that would be fantastic," she said.
"But I think the BBC has a huge amount of work cut out for it and needs the very best person for the job."


birminghammail--2020-03-05--New coronavirus advice for Brits travelling to and from Italy issued by government

Britons who have returned from any part of Italy in the past fortnight are being advised to self-isolate if they begin to feel unwell .
Previously , the advice applied only to travellers who had visited the northern regions .
But the Government announced on Thursday evening that the guidance was being extended to cover the whole country .
Speaking at a press conference , Professor Chris Whitty , England 's chief medical officer , said the move was needed because of the evolving situation in Italy .
`` The situation in Italy means that we have decided it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a geographical area of north Italy ... to a geographical situation for all of Italy , '' he said .
`` The pattern of what people do is exactly the same as before .
`` It 's about people from those areas , except for the cities which the Italian government specifies in lockdown , all other areas , only people who have got symptoms need to self-isolate . ''
Anyone who has returned from specific lockdown areas of northern Italy in the past 14 days should call 111 and self-isolate even if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ includes 10 small towns in Lombardy : Codogno , Castiglione d'Adda , Casalpusterlengo , Fombio , Maleo , Somaglia , Bertonico , Terranova dei Passerini , Castelgerundo and San Fiorano ; and one in Veneto - Vo ' Euganeo - which have been isolated by the Italian authorities .
The country has become the epicentre of the Covid-19 outbreak in Europe and the death toll climbed to 148 on Thursday , with 3,858 cases confirmed .
The Italian government has placed temporary restrictions on visiting relatives in nursing homes , urged the elderly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and closed schools and universities nationwide until March 15 .
It also ordered all sporting events to take place without fans until April 3 .

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Britons who have returned from any part of Italy in the past fortnight are being advised to self-isolate if they begin to feel unwell.
Previously, the advice applied only to travellers who had visited the northern regions.
But the Government announced on Thursday evening that the guidance was being extended to cover the whole country.
Speaking at a press conference, Professor Chris Whitty, England's chief medical officer, said the move was needed because of the evolving situation in Italy.
"The situation in Italy means that we have decided it is prudent at this point to move from a geographical area of north Italy... to a geographical situation for all of Italy," he said.
"The pattern of what people do is exactly the same as before.
(Image: Claudio Furlan/Lapresse via AP)
"It's about people from those areas, except for the cities which the Italian government specifies in lockdown, all other areas, only people who have got symptoms need to self-isolate."
Anyone who has returned from specific lockdown areas of northern Italy in the past 14 days should call 111 and self-isolate even if they do not have symptoms.
This includes 10 small towns in Lombardy: Codogno, Castiglione d'Adda, Casalpusterlengo, Fombio, Maleo, Somaglia, Bertonico, Terranova dei Passerini, Castelgerundo and San Fiorano; and one in Veneto - Vo' Euganeo - which have been isolated by the Italian authorities.
The country has become the epicentre of the Covid-19 outbreak in Europe and the death toll climbed to 148 on Thursday, with 3,858 cases confirmed.
The Italian government has placed temporary restrictions on visiting relatives in nursing homes, urged the elderly not to go outside unless absolutely necessary and closed schools and universities nationwide until March 15.
It also ordered all sporting events to take place without fans until April 3.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Starbucks makes huge change as coronavirus outbreak spreads to Birmingham

Starbucks branches in the UK will be `` pausing the use of personal cups '' as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus , the company has announced .
The coffee chain said that it would `` continue to honour existing discounts '' for anyone who brought reusable tumblers but that its drinks would be served in paper cups .
It added that the 5p charge for disposable cups will be temporarily suspended .
The announcement comes after the Department of Health and Social Care confirmed on Thursday that 25 more people had tested positive for coronavirus , bringing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One patient , who suffered from underlying health problems , has now died .
Starbucks ' vice president of retail for Europe , Robert Lynch , said : `` Out an abundance of caution , we are pausing the use of personal cups or tumblers in our stores across the UK .
`` However , we will continue to honour our 25p discount for anyone who brings in a personal cup .
`` As a result , we are suspending our 5p ... charges for paper cups as well , given this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
`` In addition , we are introducing increased cleaning measures for stores as well as for all `` for here '' ware ( ceramic mugs , plates , etc . )
'' Starbucks stores in the US have already implemented similar measures .

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Starbucks branches in the UK will be "pausing the use of personal cups" as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus, the company has announced.
The coffee chain said that it would "continue to honour existing discounts" for anyone who brought reusable tumblers but that its drinks would be served in paper cups.
It added that the 5p charge for disposable cups will be temporarily suspended.
The announcement comes after the Department of Health and Social Care confirmed on Thursday that 25 more people had tested positive for coronavirus, bringing the total number in the UK to 116.
(Image: AP)
One patient, who suffered from underlying health problems, has now died.
Starbucks' vice president of retail for Europe, Robert Lynch, said: "Out an abundance of caution, we are pausing the use of personal cups or tumblers in our stores across the UK.
"However, we will continue to honour our 25p discount for anyone who brings in a personal cup.
"As a result, we are suspending our 5p... charges for paper cups as well, given this decision prevents customers from opting for reusables."
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"In addition, we are introducing increased cleaning measures for stores as well as for all "for here" ware (ceramic mugs, plates, etc.)"
Starbucks stores in the US have already implemented similar measures.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--R Kelly denies sex abuse at trial as child pornography charges brought to court

R & B singer R Kelly has pleaded not guilty to new sex abuse accusations that include child pornography charges and allegations involving a new accuser .
Kelly , 53 , stood silently in orange prison garb with his hands behind his back as his lawyer entered the plea on his behalf at the arraignment hearing in Chicago .
More legal trouble is on the horizon for Kelly .
The government plans to file new charges in the coming weeks , adding another accuser , prosecutor Angel Krull said during the hearing .
She did not elaborate except to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devices , including hard drives , in the case .
The possibility of new charges in yet another superseding federal indictment was among the reasons cited by US District Judge Harry Leinenweber to push Kelly 's April 27 trial date to October 13 .
The 13-count superseding indictment was unsealed last month .
It is largely the same as the original indictment - which also had 13 counts - but includes a reference to a new accuser , referred to only as `` Minor 6 '' .
The charges include child pornography , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to defraud the US government , as well as the coercion or enticement of a female .
Kelly , who has denied abusing anyone , faces several dozen counts of state and federal sexual misconduct charges in Illinois , Minnesota and New York , from sexual assault to heading a racketeering scheme aimed at supplying Kelly with girls .
The Grammy-award winning musician was jailed in July and has been awaiting trial at a Chicago federal prison close to the courthouse where he attends pre-trial hearings .
He has participated in hearings in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The federal charges in Chicago accuse Kelly of filming himself having sex with underage girls and of paying off potential witnesses in his 2008 trial - at which he was acquitted - to get them to change their stories .
Kelly 's co-defendants in the case - ex-manager Derrel McDavid and former employee Milton Brown - have also pleaded not guilty to paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to retrieve pornographic videos in a bid to stave off criminal charges .
McDavid 's lawyer Beau Brindley told the court on Thursday that his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trial without Kelly .
He said McDavid 's `` life is on hold '' and he was invoking his right to a speedy trial .
But Mr Brindley said later that the defence would take a week to decide their next steps .

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R&B singer R Kelly has pleaded not guilty to new sex abuse accusations that include child pornography charges and allegations involving a new accuser.
Kelly, 53, stood silently in orange prison garb with his hands behind his back as his lawyer entered the plea on his behalf at the arraignment hearing in Chicago.
More legal trouble is on the horizon for Kelly.
The government plans to file new charges in the coming weeks, adding another accuser, prosecutor Angel Krull said during the hearing.
She did not elaborate except to say agents recently seized more than 100 electronic devices, including hard drives, in the case.
The possibility of new charges in yet another superseding federal indictment was among the reasons cited by US District Judge Harry Leinenweber to push Kelly's April 27 trial date to October 13.
(Image: Getty Images for BET)
The 13-count superseding indictment was unsealed last month. It is largely the same as the original indictment - which also had 13 counts - but includes a reference to a new accuser, referred to only as "Minor 6".
The charges include child pornography, the sexual exploitation of children and conspiracy to defraud the US government, as well as the coercion or enticement of a female.
Kelly, who has denied abusing anyone, faces several dozen counts of state and federal sexual misconduct charges in Illinois, Minnesota and New York, from sexual assault to heading a racketeering scheme aimed at supplying Kelly with girls.
The Grammy-award winning musician was jailed in July and has been awaiting trial at a Chicago federal prison close to the courthouse where he attends pre-trial hearings. He has participated in hearings in his New York case by video.
The federal charges in Chicago accuse Kelly of filming himself having sex with underage girls and of paying off potential witnesses in his 2008 trial - at which he was acquitted - to get them to change their stories.
Kelly's co-defendants in the case - ex-manager Derrel McDavid and former employee Milton Brown - have also pleaded not guilty to paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to retrieve pornographic videos in a bid to stave off criminal charges.
McDavid's lawyer Beau Brindley told the court on Thursday that his client wanted to proceed with an April trial without Kelly.
He said McDavid's "life is on hold" and he was invoking his right to a speedy trial. But Mr Brindley said later that the defence would take a week to decide their next steps.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Premier League reveals new coronavirus response affecting Aston Villa

Aston Villa players will not shake hands with the opposition or with match officials after the Premier League issued new instructions over the coronavirus .
The number of confirmed cases in the UK is rapidly rising – with 115 known to have tested positive for the virus while there has also been a fatality .
It was suggested on Thursday that top-flight matches in England may have to be played behind closed doors – as is the case with Serie A games in Italy .
That hasn ’ t been confirmed yet but the Premier League have issued a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a statement : `` For health reasons there will be no shaking of hands between players and match officials ahead of Premier League matches until further notice .
`` The Premier League fair-play handshake will not take place between players and match officials from this weekend until further notice based on medical advice .
`` Coronavirus is spread via droplets from the nose and mouth and can be transmitted on to the hands and passed on via a handshake .
`` Clubs and match officials will still perform the rest of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fixture .
`` On entering the field of play , the two teams will continue to line up , accompanied by the Premier League music , then players from the home team will walk past their opposition without shaking their hands . ''
Villa travel to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City on Monday night .
Earlier today , it was revealed Birmingham had registered its first coronavirus case , after a patient tested positive at a city hospital .
The resident , who is not a foreign national , lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attending a UK conference .

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Aston Villa players will not shake hands with the opposition or with match officials after the Premier League issued new instructions over the coronavirus.
The number of confirmed cases in the UK is rapidly rising – with 115 known to have tested positive for the virus while there has also been a fatality.
It was suggested on Thursday that top-flight matches in England may have to be played behind closed doors – as is the case with Serie A games in Italy.
That hasn’t been confirmed yet but the Premier League have issued a new precaution based on medical advice.
They said in a statement: "For health reasons there will be no shaking of hands between players and match officials ahead of Premier League matches until further notice.
"The Premier League fair-play handshake will not take place between players and match officials from this weekend until further notice based on medical advice.
"Coronavirus is spread via droplets from the nose and mouth and can be transmitted on to the hands and passed on via a handshake.
"Clubs and match officials will still perform the rest of the traditional walk-out protocol ahead of each fixture.
"On entering the field of play, the two teams will continue to line up, accompanied by the Premier League music, then players from the home team will walk past their opposition without shaking their hands."
Villa travel to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City on Monday night.
Earlier today, it was revealed Birmingham had registered its first coronavirus case, after a patient tested positive at a city hospital.
The resident, who is not a foreign national, lives in Birmingham and contracted the strain while attending a UK conference.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Oldbury Academy issues warning to parents over report 'child offered lift' near Wolverhampton Road

A stranger danger alert has been issued to parents in Oldbury .
Oldbury Academy urged parents to remind their kids to be extra vigilant after a man allegedly 'offered a lift to a pupil ' near the Wolverhampton Road .
A man in his 40s reportedly stopped a student and offered them a lift to school on Thursday March 5 .
It is believed the alleged incident happened at 8.30am on Brandhall Road , near to the Texaco Garage .
An Oldbury Academy spokesman said : `` We have received a report that one of our pupils was stopped near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lift to school .
`` Please remind your children that they must never get into a car with anyone in similar circumstances . ''
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community , join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area .
It comes after Brandhall Primary School , also in Oldbury , issued a similar warning .
On Tuesday , March 3 , a man in a green coat and holding an umbrella was spotted allegedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to engage pupils in conversation and ask them their names .

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A stranger danger alert has been issued to parents in Oldbury.
Oldbury Academy urged parents to remind their kids to be extra vigilant after a man allegedly 'offered a lift to a pupil' near the Wolverhampton Road.
A man in his 40s reportedly stopped a student and offered them a lift to school on Thursday March 5.
It is believed the alleged incident happened at 8.30am on Brandhall Road, near to the Texaco Garage.
An Oldbury Academy spokesman said: "We have received a report that one of our pupils was stopped near the Wolverhampton Road this morning and offered a lift to school.
"Please remind your children that they must never get into a car with anyone in similar circumstances."
To keep up-to-date with crime in your community, join the Black Country Crime Watch Facebook group where you will be alerted to any suspicious or criminal behaviour happening in your area.
It comes after Brandhall Primary School, also in Oldbury, issued a similar warning.
On Tuesday, March 3, a man in a green coat and holding an umbrella was spotted allegedly approaching students.
The man appeared to try to engage pupils in conversation and ask them their names.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Heartbreak of James Teer's family - 'We'd give our lives if he could still have his'

An innocent young man with a 'huge heart and great sense of humour ' who had dreams of joining the fire service .
James Teer had been playing football with a group of teenage friends near his home when he was 'executed ' in broad daylight .
So shaken by witnessing the harrowing shooting , the teens - some as young as 15 - have experienced ongoing trauma and received counselling for their ordeal .
The cold-blooded killing shocked the Erdington community where he was well-known and much-loved .
But it was his close-knit family who paid the ultimate price @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who was adored by all who knew him .
Today ( March 5 ) , James ' killers were caged for life for the brutal assassination , as Judge Martin Spencer told of the devastation still suffered by his family - seven-months on from the horrific crime .
Heartbreaking statements were read out in court on behalf of his family , who said they would 'give their lives so he could still have his ' .
Jacqueline Teer , James ' mother , said : `` Our son was a grounded and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handsome man , adored by his family .
He had a big heart and a great sense of humour .
He enjoyed life .
`` He was just starting to enjoy life as a young man .
He was going on his first holiday , he had joined a gym .
His family and friends are devastated .
`` I could not believe that James was lying dead in the street .
Our son was dead - murdered - and we were unable to help him .
`` The devastation we feel is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our lives so he could have his .
Our unique son is irreplaceable .
`` James ' dad has lost his job .
We can not come to terms with James not being there .
He was a happy person , a people person .
Our life has spiralled out of control and everything looks black .
`` I will never see his children or be a grandparent . ''
Bernadette Brown , James ' aunt , said : `` Our life changed on August 8 .
He had his whole life in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excited at the prospect of joining the fire service .
Our lives are ruined .
James ' life has been taken from him in the most calculated and cowardly manner . ''
Aaron Teer , one of James ' brothers , said : `` I can not bring myself to go out anymore .
I wish it was me who had been shot so James could live a full life .
Since his murder I have had ongoing pain and I suffer with depression .
`` I ca n't understand why anyone would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ James .
Your legacy will go on forever . ''
Nicholas Teer , another brother , said : `` James was the true essence of life itself .
I was proud to call him my brother .
Now that he has been taken from us I blame myself .
`` Going through the daily pain of what happened is a struggle .
James ' murder has affected me greatly .
As a result of this i 've had to have time off work . ''
And Aidan Teer , a third brother , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pain of losing my half brother .
James and I would always be there for each other .
I will always love him . ''
Killers Sharn Miles and Ty Blake were today sentenced to life with minimum terms of 32 years .
Jurors had earlier heard how remorseless Blake , 19 , and 20-year-old Miles , both from Birmingham , got rid of the gun in the aftermath of the killing , before casually strolling to a fast food restaurant .
CCTV showed the men ordering food , with Blake recorded holding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been cut by the gun ’ s powerful recoil .
Detectives who brought the two men to justice described the killing - triggered by an altercation at a Birmingham nightclub a week earlier - as “ horrific ” .

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An innocent young man with a 'huge heart and great sense of humour' who had dreams of joining the fire service.
James Teer had been playing football with a group of teenage friends near his home when he was 'executed' in broad daylight.
So shaken by witnessing the harrowing shooting, the teens - some as young as 15 - have experienced ongoing trauma and received counselling for their ordeal.
The cold-blooded killing shocked the Erdington community where he was well-known and much-loved.
But it was his close-knit family who paid the ultimate price - losing their beloved son and brother, who was adored by all who knew him.
Today (March 5), James' killers were caged for life for the brutal assassination, as Judge Martin Spencer told of the devastation still suffered by his family - seven-months on from the horrific crime.
(Image: WMP)
Heartbreaking statements were read out in court on behalf of his family, who said they would 'give their lives so he could still have his'.
Jacqueline Teer, James' mother, said: "Our son was a grounded and well-loved young man. He was a handsome man, adored by his family. He had a big heart and a great sense of humour. He enjoyed life.
"James' death was a heartlessly planned murder.
"He was just starting to enjoy life as a young man. He was going on his first holiday, he had joined a gym. His family and friends are devastated.
"I could not believe that James was lying dead in the street. Our son was dead - murdered - and we were unable to help him.
"The devastation we feel is second to none. We would give our lives so he could have his. Our unique son is irreplaceable.
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"James' dad has lost his job. We cannot come to terms with James not being there. He was a happy person, a people person. Our life has spiralled out of control and everything looks black.
"I will never see his children or be a grandparent."
Bernadette Brown, James' aunt, said: "Our life changed on August 8. He had his whole life in front of him.
"He was excited at the prospect of joining the fire service. Our lives are ruined. James' life has been taken from him in the most calculated and cowardly manner."
Aaron Teer, one of James' brothers, said: "I cannot bring myself to go out anymore. I wish it was me who had been shot so James could live a full life. Since his murder I have had ongoing pain and I suffer with depression.
"I can't understand why anyone would be so brutal. Rest in peace James. Your legacy will go on forever."
Nicholas Teer, another brother, said: "James was the true essence of life itself. I was proud to call him my brother. Now that he has been taken from us I blame myself.
"Going through the daily pain of what happened is a struggle. James' murder has affected me greatly. As a result of this i've had to have time off work."
And Aidan Teer, a third brother, said: "Nothing can describe the pain of losing my half brother. James and I would always be there for each other. I will always love him."
Killers Sharn Miles and Ty Blake were today sentenced to life with minimum terms of 32 years.
Jurors had earlier heard how remorseless Blake, 19, and 20-year-old Miles, both from Birmingham, got rid of the gun in the aftermath of the killing, before casually strolling to a fast food restaurant.
CCTV showed the men ordering food, with Blake recorded holding a tissue to his lip which had been cut by the gun’s powerful recoil.
Detectives who brought the two men to justice described the killing - triggered by an altercation at a Birmingham nightclub a week earlier - as “horrific”.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Crufts 2020 set for 'lowest turnout ever' over coronavirus fears

Crufts could be set for its `` lowest turnout ever '' amid fears over coronavirus .
The NEC dog show usually attracts over 160,000 people and around 26,000 dogs from 44 different countries .
But the prestigious competition looked significantly quieter to previous years on the first day of the 2020 event .
Visitors on Thursday March 5 saw fewer stalls on display and smaller queues for the main arenas .
Some said Crufts 2020 was the quietest they had ever known in its 39-year history as people stayed away over concerns it could be a breeding ground for COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chef , who travelled from Evesham , Worcs.
, to the event , said : `` I was quite surprised it went ahead but I ca n't complain as it 's so quiet and easy to get into the arena .
`` Most people seem to be having a nice time , the stalls are n't as packed as normal and its been a lot less hassle to get around . ''
Joanne Larkins , 41 , an admin assistant , from Streetly , who has been coming to the show for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was n't going to bother this year .
`` You ca n't help but worry about coronavirus , but you ca n't lock yourself away on the off chance you are going to get it .
`` I heard there 's been a confirmed case in Birmingham now which is concerning , but it was only a matter of time .
Its the lowest turnout I have ever seen .
`` Loads of the stalls are empty .
It has obviously put a lot of people off , which is a shame @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attend will have a lovely time at what is a brilliant event . ''
The dip in attendance comes on the back of two of Crufts major sponsors , Royal Canin UK and James Wellbeloved , pulling staff from the show over coronavirus worries .
The Association of Pet Dog Trainers ( APDT ) has also decided not to attend .
But trainers at the event have been steadfast in their belief that it was the right decision for the exhibition to go ahead .
Paula Taylor , 57 , of Gloucester , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Atisha into the toy category , said : `` I think everyone is panicking for no reason .
`` This event is too big to cancel over some unfounded fears .
People could catch the flu in big crowds anyway .
`` The show must go on and I 'm sure everyone will have a great time . ''
Kevin Hanley , 36 , of Tipton , was entering his pet Shih-Tzu Malika , and added : `` I 've been dog showing since I was a kid .
`` Its a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to miss out over these coronavirus fears .
It is the quietest I 've ever seen it though , which is a real shame . ''
The annual dog show has entrants come from all over the world .
More than 3,000 competing dogs are coming from overseas .
Organisers The Kennel Club , said in a statement : `` Public Health England has advised not to cancel the event .
`` Staff , exhibitors and visitors are also being encouraged to maintain good hand , respiratory and personal hygiene by employing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kill It ethos .
`` Additional signage and bottles of hand sanitiser will be introduced in toilets and the in-hall catering areas , to make it easier for everyone to clean their hands .
`` In addition , Crufts will be supplying a hand sanitiser station at each public and dog exhibitor entrance.
” Despite the downturn in attendance , there were plenty of quirky company stands still flogging their wares .
One of which was Barking Bakery , a company that specialises in tasty cakes and pastries solely for dogs .
Another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dry cleaning sack where owners can put their mucky pup in and they come out sparkling clean .
Finally , Photizo Light Therapy are vet care specialists who use infrared LED lights to help mutts with their post-surgery therapy and muscle recovery .
Crufts takes place over four days from today ( March 5 ) to Sunday ( March 8 ) .
Over 200 breeds of dog are competing for the ultimate title , Best in Show .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Tom Hitchenor SWNS, David Bentley)

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Crufts could be set for its "lowest turnout ever" amid fears over coronavirus.
The NEC dog show usually attracts over 160,000 people and around 26,000 dogs from 44 different countries.
But the prestigious competition looked significantly quieter to previous years on the first day of the 2020 event.
Visitors on Thursday March 5 saw fewer stalls on display and smaller queues for the main arenas.
(Image: Adam Hughes / SWNS)
Some said Crufts 2020 was the quietest they had ever known in its 39-year history as people stayed away over concerns it could be a breeding ground for COVID-19.
James Day, 47, a chef, who travelled from Evesham, Worcs., to the event, said: "I was quite surprised it went ahead but I can't complain as it's so quiet and easy to get into the arena.
"Most people seem to be having a nice time, the stalls aren't as packed as normal and its been a lot less hassle to get around."
Joanne Larkins, 41, an admin assistant, from Streetly, who has been coming to the show for the last ten years, added: "I wasn't going to bother this year.
"You can't help but worry about coronavirus, but you can't lock yourself away on the off chance you are going to get it.
"I heard there's been a confirmed case in Birmingham now which is concerning, but it was only a matter of time. Its the lowest turnout I have ever seen.
"Loads of the stalls are empty. It has obviously put a lot of people off, which is a shame but I'm sure those that do attend will have a lovely time at what is a brilliant event."
The dip in attendance comes on the back of two of Crufts major sponsors, Royal Canin UK and James Wellbeloved, pulling staff from the show over coronavirus worries.
The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) has also decided not to attend.
But trainers at the event have been steadfast in their belief that it was the right decision for the exhibition to go ahead.
Paula Taylor, 57, of Gloucester, who was entering her two-year-old Yorkshire Terrier Atisha into the toy category, said: "I think everyone is panicking for no reason.
"This event is too big to cancel over some unfounded fears. People could catch the flu in big crowds anyway.
"The show must go on and I'm sure everyone will have a great time."
Kevin Hanley, 36, of Tipton, was entering his pet Shih-Tzu Malika, and added: "I've been dog showing since I was a kid.
"Its a big passion of mine and I wasn't going to miss out over these coronavirus fears. It is the quietest I've ever seen it though, which is a real shame."
The annual dog show has entrants come from all over the world. More than 3,000 competing dogs are coming from overseas.
(Image: Adam Hughes / SWNS)
Organisers The Kennel Club, said in a statement: "Public Health England has advised not to cancel the event.
"Staff, exhibitors and visitors are also being encouraged to maintain good hand, respiratory and personal hygiene by employing the Catch It. Bin It. Kill It ethos.
"Additional signage and bottles of hand sanitiser will be introduced in toilets and the in-hall catering areas, to make it easier for everyone to clean their hands.
"In addition, Crufts will be supplying a hand sanitiser station at each public and dog exhibitor entrance.”
Despite the downturn in attendance, there were plenty of quirky company stands still flogging their wares.
One of which was Barking Bakery, a company that specialises in tasty cakes and pastries solely for dogs.
Another was the Doggy Bag, a portable dry cleaning sack where owners can put their mucky pup in and they come out sparkling clean.
Finally, Photizo Light Therapy are vet care specialists who use infrared LED lights to help mutts with their post-surgery therapy and muscle recovery.
Crufts takes place over four days from today (March 5) to Sunday (March 8).
Over 200 breeds of dog are competing for the ultimate title, Best in Show.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Coach lands new job after cutting short brief spell at Aston Villa

Richard Beale has left Aston Villa to become the assistant manager at Solihull Moors .
Beale , who joined Villa to work in the youth setup just seven months ago after leaving Birmingham City , is Jimmy Shan ’ s new right-hand man at the SportNation.bet Stadium after the former West Brom caretaker manager ’ s recent appointment .
A highly-regarded coach , Beale spent 16 years working for Blues and helped to oversee the development of players such as Nathan Redmond , Jack Butland and Demarai Gray .
He worked his way up to lead development coach before leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backroom team as an under-18s coach last summer .
Beale said : “ I ’ m really excited to be joining Jimmy here at Solihull having played and lived in the Borough all my life .
“ I ’ m looking forward to adding to a really good staff at the club with the aim of getting the club into the Football League.
” The National League side appointed ex-Baggies coach Shan as their manager at the start of February .
Shan said : “ I ’ m delighted to have Richard on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ professionally and personally for 19 years .
“ He ’ s a coach that shares the same mentality and ambition as myself .
He ’ s a fantastic addition to the backroom staff and he will play a key part in the progression and growth of this football club on and off the pitch .
”

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Richard Beale has landed a job with Solihull Moors after leaving Aston Villa.
Beale, who joined Villa to work in the youth setup just seven months ago after leaving Birmingham City, is Jimmy Shan’s new right-hand man at the SportNation.bet Stadium after the former West Brom caretaker manager’s recent appointment.
A highly-regarded coach, Beale spent 16 years working for Blues and helped to oversee the development of players such as Nathan Redmond, Jack Butland and Demarai Gray.
He worked his way up to lead development coach before leaving the club and joining Villa’s backroom team as an under-18s coach last summer.
Beale said: “I’m really excited to be joining Jimmy here at Solihull having played and lived in the Borough all my life.
“I’m looking forward to adding to a really good staff at the club with the aim of getting the club into the Football League.”
The National League side appointed ex-Baggies coach Shan as their manager at the start of February.
Shan said: “I’m delighted to have Richard on board. I’ve known Richard professionally and personally for 19 years.
“He’s a coach that shares the same mentality and ambition as myself. He’s a fantastic addition to the backroom staff and he will play a key part in the progression and growth of this football club on and off the pitch.”


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Solihull primary school shuts for deep clean after worker 'in contact' with coronavirus patient

A Solihull primary school will remain closed tomorrow ( March 6 ) after a member of staff came into contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient .
Bishop Wilson Primary School will stay shut for a precautionary deep clean , but is expected to reopen as usual on Monday .
The closure , Solihull Borough Council say , is in 'the best interests of pupils and staff ' .
The decision comes after a worker at the Chelmsley Wood school came into contact with an individual confirmed to have coronavirus .
However , the school has moved to reassure parents and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not displayed any symptoms .
They have reportedly contacted 111 and are following medical advice .
A statement from Solihull Borough Council read : `` Bishop Wilson Primary School will be temporarily closed this Friday , March 6 .
`` The school leadership team took the decision to close in order to undertake a deep clean , as a precaution only , in the best interests of pupils and staff .
`` This follows a member of staff coming into contact with an individual who has Coronavirus .
The member of staff has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the case that there are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Solihull .
`` The staff member has called 111 , and is following medical advice .
`` The school plans to open as normal on Monday , March 9 . ''
The school closure was revealed on the same day Birmingham Council announced the city 's first case of coronavirus in a press conference - and warned more cases are expected .
Director of Public Health , Justin Varney , spoke to BirminghamLive and revealed that 'one person of working age ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diagnosed with coronavirus .
The unnamed person had contracted the virus while at a conference and was in contact with a known case .
Two others who lived at the same household as the Birmingham patient are now in self-isolation .
`` We were informed yesterday of the positive test of one person , a Birmingham resident , of working age , '' Dr Varney said .
`` This individual was attending an event in another part of the country last week .
Our resident then went somewhere else in the country for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Someone else attending that earlier event was found to have contracted coronavirus . ''
The number of people diagnosed with coronavirus in the UK as of 9am on Thursday had risen to 115 - from 85 at the same point on Wednesday , the Department of Health said .
The new cases included 25 more patients in England , chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty said .

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A Solihull primary school will remain closed tomorrow (March 6) after a member of staff came into contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient.
Bishop Wilson Primary School will stay shut for a precautionary deep clean, but is expected to reopen as usual on Monday.
The closure, Solihull Borough Council say, is in 'the best interests of pupils and staff'.
The decision comes after a worker at the Chelmsley Wood school came into contact with an individual confirmed to have coronavirus.
However, the school has moved to reassure parents and carers that the member of staff has not displayed any symptoms.
They have reportedly contacted 111 and are following medical advice.
A statement from Solihull Borough Council read: "Bishop Wilson Primary School will be temporarily closed this Friday, March 6.
"The school leadership team took the decision to close in order to undertake a deep clean, as a precaution only, in the best interests of pupils and staff.
"This follows a member of staff coming into contact with an individual who has Coronavirus. The member of staff has not displayed any symptoms and it remains the case that there are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Solihull.
"The staff member has called 111, and is following medical advice.
"The school plans to open as normal on Monday, March 9."
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The school closure was revealed on the same day Birmingham Council announced the city's first case of coronavirus in a press conference - and warned more cases are expected.
Director of Public Health, Justin Varney, spoke to BirminghamLive and revealed that 'one person of working age' is in hospital in Birmingham after being diagnosed with coronavirus.
The unnamed person had contracted the virus while at a conference and was in contact with a known case.
Two others who lived at the same household as the Birmingham patient are now in self-isolation.
"We were informed yesterday of the positive test of one person, a Birmingham resident, of working age," Dr Varney said.
"This individual was attending an event in another part of the country last week. Our resident then went somewhere else in the country for work before coming home to Birmingham.
"Someone else attending that earlier event was found to have contracted coronavirus."
The number of people diagnosed with coronavirus in the UK as of 9am on Thursday had risen to 115 - from 85 at the same point on Wednesday, the Department of Health said.
The new cases included 25 more patients in England, chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty said.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Coronavirus first UK death announced by NHS - full statement

The first person in the UK to die from coronavirus has been confirmed by health officials .
A patient with other health conditions died after testing positive last night for coronavirus , it has been announced .
A statement from the Royal Berkshire NHS Trust said : `` Sadly , we can confirm that an older patient with underlying health conditions has died .
`` The patient has previously been in and out of hospital for non-coronavirus reasons , but on this occasion was admitted and last night tested positive for coronavirus .
`` The family has been informed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult time .
`` We will not be commenting further and ask that everybody respects the family 's privacy . ''
The news comes as cases of coronavirus in the UK have more than doubled in 48 hours as the country moves towards the delay phase of tackling the virus .
Some 116 people have tested positive , including 105 in England , three in Wales , six in Scotland and three in Northern Ireland .
Just two days ago there were 51 UK cases .
Last week , the Foreign Office confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board the Diamond Princess cruise ship , which was quarantined in Japan , had died from the virus .

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The first person in the UK to die from coronavirus has been confirmed by health officials.
A patient with other health conditions died after testing positive last night for coronavirus, it has been announced.
A statement from the Royal Berkshire NHS Trust said: "Sadly, we can confirm that an older patient with underlying health conditions has died.
(Image: AP)
"The patient has previously been in and out of hospital for non-coronavirus reasons, but on this occasion was admitted and last night tested positive for coronavirus.
"The family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
"We will not be commenting further and ask that everybody respects the family's privacy."
The news comes as cases of coronavirus in the UK have more than doubled in 48 hours as the country moves towards the delay phase of tackling the virus.
Some 116 people have tested positive, including 105 in England, three in Wales, six in Scotland and three in Northern Ireland.
Just two days ago there were 51 UK cases.
Last week, the Foreign Office confirmed a British tourist who had been on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship, which was quarantined in Japan, had died from the virus.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Manchester United want Jack Grealish as part of whopping £160m double transfer - reports

Manchester United want to sign Jack Grealish from Aston Villa – and the summer spending at Old Trafford won ’ t stop there , according to reports .
Grealish is enjoying an outstanding season despite Villa ’ s struggles in the Premier League and United have made him a target for the upcoming transfer window .
With seven goals and six assists in the top-flight , he is spearheading Villa ’ s charge to stay up and fits the bill for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who is keen to recruit a new playmaker .
Villa would want to be handsomely compensated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age six – and on the other side of the deal it has been suggested United are willing to offer him a wage hike to the tune of £150,000-a-week .
Now , Bleacher Report claims that Jadon Sancho will also be targeted as part of an overhaul of Solskjaer ’ s attacking options .
They say United are willing to spend £160m to land the duo , with £100m of that on Borussia Dortmund star Sancho - which would be a record fee for a Premier League club - and £60m on Grealish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s future ahead of the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City on Sunday .
“ Obviously , staying in this league is one of the biggest things to help us keep Jack Grealish , ” said the Villa boss .
“ He wants to play at the highest level and he wants to win trophies .
We ’ re going to work hard .
We have to work hard on Sunday to win that trophy .
“ Jack ’ s future , like the rest of the players , is down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
What we can do is assess it then .
”

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Manchester United want to bring Jack Grealish to Old Trafford in as part of a double swoop with Borussia Dortmund's Jadon Sancho also wanted, according to reports.
Grealish was enjoying an outstanding season despite Villa’s struggles in the Premier League prior to the coronavirus lockdown and United have made him a target for the upcoming transfer window.
With seven goals and six assists in the top-flight, he had been spearheading Villa’s charge to stay up and fits the bill for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who is keen to recruit a new playmaker.
Villa would want to be handsomely compensated for the player they have nurtured since age six.
The Times are reporting Jadon Sancho will also be targeted as part of an overhaul of Solskjaer’s attacking options.
They say £110m rated England star Sancho is United's priority target to fill the right-wing position while Grealish will be pursued to add a new dimension to Solskjaer's midfield.
It has been claimed in recent days Villa could demand up to £80m for their prized asset.
Dean Smith was asked about Grealish’s future ahead of the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City in February.
“Obviously, staying in this league is one of the biggest things to help us keep Jack Grealish,” said the Villa boss.
“He wants to play at the highest level and he wants to win trophies. We’re going to work hard. We have to work hard on Sunday to win that trophy.
“Jack’s future, like the rest of the players, is down to what happens over the next three months. What we can do is assess it then.”


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Two cases of the coronavirus identified in Staffordshire

PUBLIC HEALTH chiefs have today confirmed two residents in Staffordshire have contracted the coronavirus COVID-19 .
People who have been in close contact with the residents are being contacted and “ there is no significant risk ” to anyone else in the county .
Katie Spence , Deputy Director , Health Protection , Public Health England West Midlands said : “ Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Staffordshire .
“ We ‘ re working closely with local NHS colleagues as well as Staffordshire County Council to manage the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases .
“ Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case .
“ This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public.
” Richard Harling , Staffordshire County Council ’ s Director of Health and Care , said partners were well prepared : “ These new cases of coronavirus are nothing unexpected .
We fully anticipate an increase in numbers which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and are ready , for this situation .
“ I ’ d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and Staffordshire County Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Staffordshire are protected .
“ For the vast majority of people in Staffordshire it is very much business as usual and the easiest and most effective way to stop the virus spreading is to follow good basic hygiene : Sneeze or cough into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your hands frequently for 20 seconds and don ’ t touch your face unless you ’ ve just washed your hands.
” Philip Atkins , Leader of Staffordshire County Council , said : “ As a county council we are working closely with our partners to monitor and manage any emerging risk and are encouraging everyone to play their part by following NHS advice to help reduce the risk of spreading where possible.
” People can go to https : //gov.uk/coronavirus for the latest advice and information .

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PUBLIC HEALTH chiefs have today confirmed two residents in Staffordshire have contracted the coronavirus COVID-19.
People who have been in close contact with the residents are being contacted and “there is no significant risk” to anyone else in the county.
Katie Spence, Deputy Director, Health Protection, Public Health England West Midlands said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Staffordshire.
“We‘re working closely with local NHS colleagues as well as Staffordshire County Council to manage the situation and help reduce the risk of further cases.
“Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case.
“This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public.”
Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care, said partners were well prepared:
“These new cases of coronavirus are nothing unexpected. We fully anticipate an increase in numbers which is why our services have planned for, and are ready, for this situation.
“I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and Staffordshire County Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Staffordshire are protected.
“For the vast majority of people in Staffordshire it is very much business as usual and the easiest and most effective way to stop the virus spreading is to follow good
basic hygiene: Sneeze or cough into a tissue, bin it, wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds and don’t touch your face unless you’ve just washed your hands.”
Philip Atkins, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: “As a county council we are working closely with our partners to monitor and manage any emerging risk and are encouraging everyone to play their part by following NHS advice to help reduce the risk of spreading where possible.”
People can go to https://gov.uk/coronavirus for the latest advice and information.


birminghammail--2020-03-05--Birmingham council sets up Coronavirus group to prepare for outbreak in city

Birmingham City Council has set up a Coronavirus Preparedness Group to help plan for the expected outbreak of the virus in the city .
In a statement the council said it has been preparing for a potential outbreak 'for several weeks ' , with the group meeting on more than one occasion during that time .
The news comes as Birmingham announced its first confirmed case of COVID-19 earlier today ( March 5 ) , with the individual concerned reported to be receiving treatment at hospital .
Public Health England is currently contacting people who may have had close contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City Council 's Director of Public Health , Justin Varney , seeking to reassure citizens that the risk to the general public 'remains low ' .
`` This new case of coronavirus is nothing unexpected , '' he said .
`` We expected that at some point we would have our first case and we have worked with partners in the NHS and PHE and our services have planned for this , and are ready , for this situation . ''
No further information has yet been given as to the details of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected as the situation unfolds .
A full statement from the council said : `` Birmingham City Council has been preparing for several weeks for the emerging Coronavirus situation .
The council is working closely with the NHS , Public Health England , universities and schools , voluntary and community organisations and the business sector to ensure we are all prepared for the future of this outbreak .
`` The council has had a Coronavirus Preparedness Group meeting for several weeks monitoring and planning as the situation evolves .
`` We have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a question and answer session ahead of a full council meeting .
There are also regular briefings to the corporate leadership team and cabinet members as the situation evolves . ''

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Birmingham City Council has set up a Coronavirus Preparedness Group to help plan for the expected outbreak of the virus in the city.
In a statement the council said it has been preparing for a potential outbreak 'for several weeks', with the group meeting on more than one occasion during that time.
The news comes as Birmingham announced its first confirmed case of COVID-19 earlier today (March 5), with the individual concerned reported to be receiving treatment at hospital.
Public Health England is currently contacting people who may have had close contact with the confirmed case, with Birmingham City Council's Director of Public Health, Justin Varney, seeking to reassure citizens that the risk to the general public 'remains low'.
"This new case of coronavirus is nothing unexpected," he said.
"We expected that at some point we would have our first case and we have worked with partners in the NHS and PHE and our services have planned for this, and are ready, for this situation."
No further information has yet been given as to the details of these meetings, though more details are expected as the situation unfolds.
A full statement from the council said: "Birmingham City Council has been preparing for several weeks for the emerging Coronavirus situation. The council is working closely with the NHS, Public Health England, universities and schools, voluntary and community organisations and the business sector to ensure we are all prepared for the future of this outbreak.
"The council has had a Coronavirus Preparedness Group meeting for several weeks monitoring and planning as the situation evolves.
"We have been briefing elected members regularly and recently held a question and answer session ahead of a full council meeting. There are also regular briefings to the corporate leadership team and cabinet members as the situation evolves."