birminghammail--2020-08-19--Doorstep testing service on way as leader urges city to 'avoid lockdown'

Council chief Ian Ward has issued an urgent `` wake up '' call to people to stop Birmingham sliding into lockdown as he revealed the city is to become the first in the country to offer a doorstep coronavirus testing service .
In a hard hitting statement , he warns the rise in infections is `` extremely concerning '' and sets out what residents stand to lose if the infection rate does not come back down .
His message , issued this afternoon , reinforces fears that a city-wide lockdown could come soon unless cases start to fall .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the dark days of spring it will be because we haven ’ t collectively done our bit for the greater good of the city , '' he said .
“ It will set our already-fragile economy back and that could mean more job uncertainty and further struggles to make ends meet for many .
“ A local lockdown could also mean some of those freedoms and liberties that we have begun to enjoy again are ripped from our grasp . ''
And he urges people to come together `` like never before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was to pilot a 'drop and collect ' service .
This would enable people who would otherwise struggle to get to a test centre or post box to get one dropped to their door and taken away again .
The council is also pressing for more walk in and drive through testing centres .
A successful test and trace system is seen as vital in the fight to contain the virus .
The council is also lobbying central Government to support poorer workers by guaranteeing they are paid if they have to self @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into going to work when they could be risking many other people because they are struggling to pay their bills and we are lobbying government to ensure people are properly supported financially if they are ill or while they are self-isolating . ''
He hints at the restrictions that could come into play if the city 's infection rate continues to rise : * care homes could stay locked down to visitors * restrictions on shopping , restaurants , pubs and leisure facilities could be reintroduced * households could be told to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the verge of being named on the national `` watch list '' of areas of most concern .
The infection rate in the city is currently around 30 cases per 100,000 people .
While the numbers seem low - and are much lower than in current locked down locations including Greater Manchester and Blackburn - there are fears they could continue to go up .
“ Most people are still doing the right things – the basics such as handwashing , wearing face coverings in the appropriate places and keeping 2m apart wherever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We all need to keep doing this .
I understand that lockdown fatigue has inevitably set in for some and that the easing of restrictions means it is easy to take your eye off the ball .
“ But we have to remain focussed . ''
He also spoke of the sacrifices made by families who have lost loved ones to the virus .
“ The rise in case numbers , although not currently on the scale seen elsewhere in the country , is extremely concerning – we all need to wake up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Many people have stories of tragedy relating to their family and friends since the onset of COVID-19 .
We ’ ve all made sacrifices over the past five months to tackle its devastating impact , and that is what was helping bring the issue under control here in Birmingham .
“ Most people are still doing the right things – the basics such as handwashing , wearing face coverings in the appropriate places and keeping 2m apart wherever possible .
“ We all need to keep doing this .
I understand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for some and that the easing of restrictions means it is easy to take your eye off the ball .
“ But we have to remain focussed .
If we are forced to go back to the dark days of spring it will be because we haven ’ t collectively done our bit for the greater good of the city .
“ It will set our already-fragile economy back and that could mean more job uncertainty and further struggles to make ends meet for many .
“ A local lockdown could also mean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have begun to enjoy again are ripped from our grasp .
We don ’ t want a situation where people can not see their loved ones in care homes ( as many already can not do ) or not go to their favourite restaurant .
“ Nobody wants to have to wait in a lengthy queue at their local supermarket or not be able to use all of the facilities in their local park .
“ Going into the next stage of restrictions will also probably mean an end to households meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socialise as we would like to .
“ There is a risk this could all happen again if we don ’ t push back against the rise in Birmingham ’ s coronavirus cases .
“ As a council , we will continue working with our partners in the NHS and other emergency services to do everything we can to halt the spread .
“ We have to carry on boosting the rates of testing .
They have been heading in the right direction , but if you feel unwell with one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trace , it is your interests and that of anyone you come into contact with to take a coronavirus test .
“ There is a role here for our colleagues in central government just as much as there is for the council or the people of Birmingham , and we will continue putting the city ’ s case forward .
In particular we are asking government to provide more walk-in and drive-in test centres across the city so that it is as easy as possible for people to get a test .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to tests in other locations , such GP surgeries .
• We want to know what you think , tell us in the comments below ; “ In the meantime , Birmingham will be one of the first councils in the country to pilot a ‘ drop and collect ’ testing service for those residents who are finding it difficult to leave their home to get a test .
“ Nobody should feel forced into going to work when they could be risking many other people because they are struggling to pay their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure people are properly supported financially if they are ill or while they are self-isolating .
“ Ultimately , there is a role for everyone here .
Now is the time to step up and all do our bit for Birmingham , like never before.
” • If you are an employer and suspect infection among employees , seek help quickly from your local outbreak team and via Public Health England .
• If you have symptoms , get a test - and isolate until that test arrives and the result is received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS website to order a test - click on link to the nhs website for tests here .

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Council chief Ian Ward has issued an urgent "wake up" call to people to stop Birmingham sliding into lockdown as he revealed the city is to become the first in the country to offer a doorstep coronavirus testing service.
In a hard hitting statement, he warns the rise in infections is "extremely concerning" and sets out what residents stand to lose if the infection rate does not come back down.
His message, issued this afternoon, reinforces fears that a city-wide lockdown could come soon unless cases start to fall.
"If we are forced to go back to the dark days of spring it will be because we haven’t collectively done our bit for the greater good of the city," he said.
“It will set our already-fragile economy back and that could mean more job uncertainty and further struggles to make ends meet for many.
“A local lockdown could also mean some of those freedoms and liberties that we have begun to enjoy again are ripped from our grasp."
And he urges people to come together "like never before".
He also announced the city was to pilot a 'drop and collect' service. This would enable people who would otherwise struggle to get to a test centre or post box to get one dropped to their door and taken away again. The council is also pressing for more walk in and drive through testing centres.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
A successful test and trace system is seen as vital in the fight to contain the virus.
The council is also lobbying central Government to support poorer workers by guaranteeing they are paid if they have to self isolate.
“Nobody should feel forced into going to work when they could be risking many other people because they are struggling to pay their bills and we are lobbying government to ensure people are properly supported financially if they are ill or while they are self-isolating."
He hints at the restrictions that could come into play if the city's infection rate continues to rise:
* care homes could stay locked down to visitors
* restrictions on shopping, restaurants, pubs and leisure facilities could be reintroduced
* households could be told to stop meeting others indoors
The city is on the verge of being named on the national "watch list" of areas of most concern. The infection rate in the city is currently around 30 cases per 100,000 people.
While the numbers seem low - and are much lower than in current locked down locations including Greater Manchester and Blackburn - there are fears they could continue to go up.
“Most people are still doing the right things – the basics such as handwashing, wearing face coverings in the appropriate places and keeping 2m apart wherever possible," he said.
“We all need to keep doing this. I understand that lockdown fatigue has inevitably set in for some and that the easing of restrictions means it is easy to take your eye off the ball.
“But we have to remain focussed."
He also spoke of the sacrifices made by families who have lost loved ones to the virus.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Statement in full from Cllr Ian Ward
“The rise in case numbers, although not currently on the scale seen elsewhere in the country, is extremely concerning – we all need to wake up to the severity of the current situation.
“Many people have stories of tragedy relating to their family and friends since the onset of COVID-19. We’ve all made sacrifices over the past five months to tackle its devastating impact, and that is what was helping bring the issue under control here in Birmingham.
“Most people are still doing the right things – the basics such as handwashing, wearing face coverings in the appropriate places and keeping 2m apart wherever possible.
“We all need to keep doing this. I understand that lockdown fatigue has inevitably set in for some and that the easing of restrictions means it is easy to take your eye off the ball.
“But we have to remain focussed. If we are forced to go back to the dark days of spring it will be because we haven’t collectively done our bit for the greater good of the city.
“It will set our already-fragile economy back and that could mean more job uncertainty and further struggles to make ends meet for many.
(Image: Adam Hughes / SWNS)
“A local lockdown could also mean some of those freedoms and liberties that we have begun to enjoy again are ripped from our grasp. We don’t want a situation where people cannot see their loved ones in care homes (as many already cannot do) or not go to their favourite restaurant.
“Nobody wants to have to wait in a lengthy queue at their local supermarket or not be able to use all of the facilities in their local park.
“Going into the next stage of restrictions will also probably mean an end to households meeting indoors, severely restricting our ability to socialise as we would like to.
“There is a risk this could all happen again if we don’t push back against the rise in Birmingham’s coronavirus cases.
“As a council, we will continue working with our partners in the NHS and other emergency services to do everything we can to halt the spread.
“We have to carry on boosting the rates of testing. They have been heading in the right direction, but if you feel unwell with one of the key symptoms or contacted by Test and Trace, it is your interests and that of anyone you come into contact with to take a coronavirus test.
“There is a role here for our colleagues in central government just as much as there is for the council or the people of Birmingham, and we will continue putting the city’s case forward. In particular we are asking government to provide more walk-in and drive-in test centres across the city so that it is as easy as possible for people to get a test. We are also asking government to increase access to tests in other locations, such GP surgeries.
We want to know what you think, tell us in the comments below;
“In the meantime, Birmingham will be one of the first councils in the country to pilot a ‘drop and collect’ testing service for those residents who are finding it difficult to leave their home to get a test.
“Nobody should feel forced into going to work when they could be risking many other people because they are struggling to pay their bills and we are lobbying government to ensure people are properly supported financially if they are ill or while they are self-isolating.
“Ultimately, there is a role for everyone here. Now is the time to step up and all do our bit for Birmingham, like never before.”


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Government urged to extend eviction ban as thousands face losing their homes

Ministers have been urged to act to prevent a “ homelessness crisis ” with thousands of West Midlands people at risk when a ban on evictions is lifted .
The protection against evictions in England and Wales – aimed at preventing privately-renting tenants losing their homes during the coronavirus crisis – expires on August 23 .
Labour called for the measure to be extended , with Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey warning : `` Birmingham faces tens of thousands losing their jobs and seeing their livelihoods slashed .
As protection comes to an end , that will mean many tenants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Urgent action is needed from the government to strengthen the law and protect tenants from eviction . ''
A survey by YouGov for housing charity Shelter found that 3 % of private renting tenants have fallen into arrears during the Covid pandemic and could face eviction once the ban ends .
In the West Midlands region that amounts to 12,700 households .
And while many people saw their income fall during the lockdown , many others are likely to be affected in the months to come .
The Government 's furlough scheme protected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but is currently being wound down and comes to an end in October .
There have been a series of high-profile announcements about job cuts , but many of these , such as the recent announcement that Marks and Spencer plans to cut 7,000 posts , marked the launch of a lengthy consultation .
Staff affected are still in place , and continue to receive salaries .
It means that the impact of the Covid pandemic on incomes will continue to be felt well into 2021 .
Labour wants the abolition of Section @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reform of Section 8 evictions – where the terms of a tenancy have been broken – to protect people whose livelihoods have been hit by the pandemic .
A Government spokesperson said : “ The Government has taken unprecedented action to support renters , preventing people getting into financial hardship and helping businesses to pay salaries – meaning no tenants have been forced from their home .
“ We will give appropriate support to those particularly affected when proceedings start again and we have changed court rules so landlords need to provide more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeking an eviction – with judges able to adjourn a case if they don ’ t .
“ Legislation introduced in March requiring landlords to give all tenants three months ’ notice will remain for possession cases , including section 21 evictions , until at least September 30 .
”

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Ministers have been urged to act to prevent a “homelessness crisis” with thousands of West Midlands people at risk when a ban on evictions is lifted.
The protection against evictions in England and Wales – aimed at preventing privately-renting tenants losing their homes during the coronavirus crisis – expires on August 23.
Labour called for the measure to be extended, with Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey warning: "Birmingham faces tens of thousands losing their jobs and seeing their livelihoods slashed. As protection comes to an end, that will mean many tenants ending up in the street.
"Urgent action is needed from the government to strengthen the law and protect tenants from eviction."
A survey by YouGov for housing charity Shelter found that 3% of private renting tenants have fallen into arrears during the Covid pandemic and could face eviction once the ban ends. In the West Midlands region that amounts to 12,700 households.
And while many people saw their income fall during the lockdown, many others are likely to be affected in the months to come. The Government's furlough scheme protected 697,000 jobs in the West Midlands, but is currently being wound down and comes to an end in October.
There have been a series of high-profile announcements about job cuts, but many of these, such as the recent announcement that Marks and Spencer plans to cut 7,000 posts, marked the launch of a lengthy consultation. Staff affected are still in place, and continue to receive salaries.
It means that the impact of the Covid pandemic on incomes will continue to be felt well into 2021.
Labour wants the abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions and reform of Section 8 evictions – where the terms of a tenancy have been broken – to protect people whose livelihoods have been hit by the pandemic.
A Government spokesperson said: “The Government has taken unprecedented action to support renters, preventing people getting into financial hardship and helping businesses to pay salaries – meaning no tenants have been forced from their home.
“We will give appropriate support to those particularly affected when proceedings start again and we have changed court rules so landlords need to provide more information about their tenants’ situation when seeking an eviction – with judges able to adjourn a case if they don’t.
“Legislation introduced in March requiring landlords to give all tenants three months’ notice will remain for possession cases, including section 21 evictions, until at least September 30.”


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Gun and ammunition discovered in drugs warrant raid

Police who raided a property looking for drugs found a `` bonus '' gun and ammunition .
Officers in Worcestershire searched an address in Deans Close , Church Hill , Redditch , at 8pm on Monday , August 17 .
And , while inside , they found a pistol wrapped in cellophane in a box and hundreds of 8mm firing pistol blanks made by Italian ammunition firm Fiocchi Munizioni .
There were also two boxes of 50 blanks and a grey carrier bag containing scores more .
The gun and ammunition were seized with the weapon set to undergo further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was carried out by Redditch Safer Neighbourhood Team officers with support from West Mercia Police ’ s Local Policing Priority Team South , who were used as ‘ specialist search staff ’ .
The LPPT South team Tweeted : `` An unexpected bonus during a drugs warrant in Redditch tonight [ Monday ] .
`` This firearm was found with a large quantity of blank ammunition .
`` It is now safely off the streets and will be subjected to forensic examination .
No arrests as yet but enquires are ongoing by Redditch @ @ @

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Police who raided a property looking for drugs found a "bonus" gun and ammunition.
Officers in Worcestershire searched an address in Deans Close, Church Hill, Redditch, at 8pm on Monday, August 17.
And, while inside, they found a pistol wrapped in cellophane in a box and hundreds of 8mm firing pistol blanks made by Italian ammunition firm Fiocchi Munizioni.
There were also two boxes of 50 blanks and a grey carrier bag containing scores more.
The gun and ammunition were seized with the weapon set to undergo further checks by forensics officers.
The raid was carried out by Redditch Safer Neighbourhood Team officers with support from West Mercia Police ’s Local Policing Priority Team South, who were used as ‘specialist search staff’.
The LPPT South team Tweeted: "An unexpected bonus during a drugs warrant in Redditch tonight [Monday].
"This firearm was found with a large quantity of blank ammunition.
"It is now safely off the streets and will be subjected to forensic examination. No arrests as yet but enquires are ongoing by Redditch police."


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Fifth man arrested over Reece Cox murder

A fifth man has been arrested following a Sedgley street attack that led to the death of Reece Cox .
The 24-year-old father was in Bull Ring , just before midnight on Saturday , August 15 , when it ’ s believed he stepped in to protect another man who was being assaulted .
He was then violently punched and kicked and was pronounced dead at the scene .
Police detained an 18-year-old at an address in Birmingham this morning ( Wednesday , August 19 ) on suspicion of murder .
Detectives have also been given extra time to question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , August 18 ) on suspicion of murder .
They remain in custody .
“ We ’ re making swift progress and we continue to work around the clock to get everyone we believe played a part in the attack , '' said Det Insp Laura Harrison , from West Midlands Police 's Homicide Unit .
Dudley Police Borough Commander , Supt Jason Anderson , said : `` This is a despicable crime where a young man has tragically lost his life .
`` An entire community has been affected by this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do the right thing and hand themselves in .
“ Local officers continue to support the community and we thank them for the information they have already provided . ''
Anyone with information can contact the force via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or by calling 101 .

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A fifth man has been arrested following a Sedgley street attack that led to the death of Reece Cox.
The 24-year-old father was in Bull Ring, just before midnight on Saturday, August 15, when it’s believed he stepped in to protect another man who was being assaulted.
He was then violently punched and kicked and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police detained an 18-year-old at an address in Birmingham this morning (Wednesday, August 19) on suspicion of murder.
Detectives have also been given extra time to question four men who were arrested yesterday (Tuesday, August 18) on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody.
“We’re making swift progress and we continue to work around the clock to get everyone we believe played a part in the attack," said Det Insp Laura Harrison, from West Midlands Police's Homicide Unit.
Dudley Police Borough Commander, Supt Jason Anderson, said: "This is a despicable crime where a young man has tragically lost his life.
"An entire community has been affected by this shocking incident and we urge those responsible to do the right thing and hand themselves in.
“Local officers continue to support the community and we thank them for the information they have already provided."
Anyone with information can contact the force via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or by calling 101.
To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting crime number 20DY/194445N/20.


birminghammail--2020-08-19--'Real Brummie' dies in incident on footpath as family pay tribute

A Birmingham dad who died in the South West following an incident on a footpath has been named .
Carl Picken - a dad with an `` amazing heart '' - sadly passed away following an incident involving a `` number of people '' .
He died in Bath at the age of just 29 .
He was discovered on the path , which runs alongside the River Avon off Brassmill Lane , at around 3.15pm on Thursday ( August 13 ) .
Two men , aged 47 and 53 , were arrested following Mr Picken 's death but have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports .
A family statement said : `` He was n't perfect but no one deserves to be taken at such a young age .
He still had so much life to live .
`` He had an amazing heart and was actually a big softy .
He adored his children and it 's unbearable to think he now wo n't be around to watch them grow up .
`` We appreciate all the love shown towards him and his death has left a hole that will never be filled .
`` Known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carl and Brummie , he was a real funny character . ''
Tributes to Mr Picken , from Birmingham , have been placed alongside the footpath where his body was found .
Flowers along with a can of Stella Artois have been left with a framed photo of two men on Brassmill Lane adjacent to the Maltings Industrial Estate .
The photo has the caption `` RIP my Darg - The real Brummie '' with a blue heart .
A leading detective in the case has described Mr Picken 's death as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Officer Detective Inspector Neil Meade said : `` We 're still in the early stages of our inquiry and we continue to build a picture of the circumstances surrounding Carl 's death .
`` It may be some weeks before we know what caused his death as the post-mortem examination proved inconclusive .
Further tests will now be carried out but these can take some time .
`` Trained family liaison officers are providing Carl 's family with support and we will make sure we keep them updated on the progress of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incident , or who has information which could help the investigation into Mr Picken 's death should call Avon and Somerset Police on 101 and quote reference number 5220182766 , or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Stephen D'Albiac, Elise Britten, James Rodger)

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A Birmingham dad who died in the South West following an incident on a footpath has been named.
Carl Picken - a dad with an "amazing heart" - sadly passed away following an incident involving a "number of people".
He died in Bath at the age of just 29.
He was discovered on the path, which runs alongside the River Avon off Brassmill Lane, at around 3.15pm on Thursday (August 13).
Two men, aged 47 and 53, were arrested following Mr Picken's death but have since been released on bail, SomersetLive reports.
A family statement said: "He wasn't perfect but no one deserves to be taken at such a young age. He still had so much life to live.
"He had an amazing heart and was actually a big softy. He adored his children and it's unbearable to think he now won't be around to watch them grow up.
"We appreciate all the love shown towards him and his death has left a hole that will never be filled.
"Known asson, dad, brother, Fat Carl and Brummie, he was a real funny character."
Tributes to Mr Picken, from Birmingham, have been placed alongside the footpath where his body was found.
Flowers along with a can of Stella Artois have been left with a framed photo of two men on Brassmill Lane adjacent to the Maltings Industrial Estate.
The photo has the caption "RIP my Darg - The real Brummie" with a blue heart.
A leading detective in the case has described Mr Picken's death as an "isolated incident".
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Neil Meade said: "We're still in the early stages of our inquiry and we continue to build a picture of the circumstances surrounding Carl's death.
"It may be some weeks before we know what caused his death as the post-mortem examination proved inconclusive. Further tests will now be carried out but these can take some time.
"Trained family liaison officers are providing Carl's family with support and we will make sure we keep them updated on the progress of our investigation."
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information which could help the investigation into Mr Picken's death should call Avon and Somerset Police on 101 and quote reference number 5220182766, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Warning over fake traffic wardens stealing bank cards

Drivers have been warned to watch out for a new scam that sees callous crooks steal bank cards and PIN by pretending to be traffic wardens .
Police say fraudsters have been preying on motorists in Wolverhampton .
Victims are told they have parked illegally and face a huge fine unless they pay a smaller fee straight away .
They are told to dial a phone number from a telephone box and insert a debit card into another machine and enter their PIN .
Once the PIN is entered , the 'traffic warden ' will snatch the card before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can .
PCSO Levi Abbotts has urged people to be mindful of the scam .
Posting on West Midlands Police 's online alert system , WM Now , the officer said : `` This may sound like a far-fetched method but this has happened on a number of occasions , especially to the older community where they may not be able to react to such events as quickly as somebody younger could .
`` If ever approached by someone stating they are official representatives - of any organisation whether it is council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ask for identification that will always be to hand .
`` Please share this message with friends and family especially those who are elderly or most vulnerable to ensure they keep themselves safe .
`` If ever approached by anybody acting suspicious , demanding money or simply refusing to give ID then please ring 999 and hopefully together with the community we can bring justice to these fraudsters . ''

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Drivers have been warned to watch out for a new scam that sees callous crooks steal bank cards and PIN by pretending to be traffic wardens.
Police say fraudsters have been preying on motorists in Wolverhampton.
Victims are told they have parked illegally and face a huge fine unless they pay a smaller fee straight away.
They are told to dial a phone number from a telephone box and insert a debit card into another machine and enter their PIN.
Once the PIN is entered, the 'traffic warden' will snatch the card before the victim can notice and withdraw whatever cash they can.
PCSO Levi Abbotts has urged people to be mindful of the scam.
Posting on West Midlands Police's online alert system, WM Now, the officer said: "This may sound like a far-fetched method but this has happened on a number of occasions, especially to the older community where they may not be able to react to such events as quickly as somebody younger could.
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"If ever approached by someone stating they are official representatives - of any organisation whether it is council or police, do not hesitate to ask for identification that will always be to hand.
"Please share this message with friends and family especially those who are elderly or most vulnerable to ensure they keep themselves safe.
"If ever approached by anybody acting suspicious, demanding money or simply refusing to give ID then please ring 999 and hopefully together with the community we can bring justice to these fraudsters."


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Blues confirm two more friendlies as pre-season takes shape

Birmingham City have confirmed that they ’ ll face League One Charlton Athletic and League Two Walsall in the run-up to the new Championship season .
Blues , under new boss Aitor Karanka , will welcome both the Addicks and the Saddlers to Wast Hills ahead of the forthcoming campaign .
Lee Bowyer takes his side back to his familiar haunt on Saturday , August 22 for a midday kick-off at the training ground , while Walsall - under Darrell Clarke - will head to the same venue for a 3pm kick off on Tuesday , September 1 .
Make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - click here to sign up to our Blues newsletter These are the latest fixtures arranged and confirmed by the club , while in between these games they ’ ll head to the capital to take on Tottenham Hotspur at their new stadium - that game will take place on Saturday , August 29 at 3pm .
For obvious reasons , all of the above matches will be behind closed doors .
It ’ s believed , meanwhile , that Blues have plans to welcome Spurs ’ Premier League rivals Leicester City to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new season .
The Foxes , who visited Blues for a friendly before they kicked off their title-winning campaign in 2015 , would also play at Wast Hills , according to the Leicester Mercury .
It was a fixture that Karanka hinted at at his unveiling last week , when asked about the young stars he has been able to look closely at in pre-season training .
Karanka said : “ We have 20 to 22 players and a few of them from the academy .
They are training really well .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ them , you wouldn ’ t notice if they are from the academy or the first team .
Let ’ s see when we play against Tottenham or Leicester , but in the training sessions , I ’ m really pleased with them .
”

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Birmingham City have confirmed that they’ll face League One Charlton Athletic and League Two Walsall in the run-up to the new Championship season.
Blues, under new boss Aitor Karanka, will welcome both the Addicks and the Saddlers to Wast Hills ahead of the forthcoming campaign.
Lee Bowyer takes his side back to his familiar haunt on Saturday, August 22 for a midday kick-off at the training ground, while Walsall - under Darrell Clarke - will head to the same venue for a 3pm kick off on Tuesday, September 1.
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These are the latest fixtures arranged and confirmed by the club, while in between these games they’ll head to the capital to take on Tottenham Hotspur at their new stadium - that game will take place on Saturday, August 29 at 3pm.
For obvious reasons, all of the above matches will be behind closed doors.
It’s believed, meanwhile, that Blues have plans to welcome Spurs’ Premier League rivals Leicester City to the Second City before the commencement of the new season.
The Foxes, who visited Blues for a friendly before they kicked off their title-winning campaign in 2015, would also play at Wast Hills, according to the Leicester Mercury.
It was a fixture that Karanka hinted at at his unveiling last week, when asked about the young stars he has been able to look closely at in pre-season training.
Karanka said: “We have 20 to 22 players and a few of them from the academy. They are training really well.
“If you don’t know them, you wouldn’t notice if they are from the academy or the first team. Let’s see when we play against Tottenham or Leicester, but in the training sessions, I’m really pleased with them.”


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Morrisons launches full range of groceries on Amazon for same day delivery

Morrisons has stepped up its partnership with Amazon to offer its full grocery range online with shoppers having their orders delivered on the same day .
All items will now be available online on Amazon and shoppers who spend £40 or more using its Prime service can take advantage of immediate delivery , the Mirror writes .
Amazon first teamed up with the supermarket three years ago where customers could purchase particular items including frozen goods through the online retailer .
Doug Gurr , Amazon UK country manager , said : `` The launch of Morrisons on Amazon means increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selection , as well as an even greater choice for our customers . ''
The change will kick off in Leeds with all customers using Amazon 's website able to buy their shopping via the `` Morrisons on Amazon '' shop .
Amazon Prime customers will also be able to receive free same-day deliveries on orders over £40 .
The supermarket giant already runs a larger grocery delivery business through its own website , which is distributed through Ocado .
Morrisons has said the Amazon partnership is `` complementary '' to its on-demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April .
David Potts , Morrisons chief executive , said : `` Morrisons on Amazon will build on our partnership with Amazon , making our good quality , great value food even more accessible through Amazon.co.uk and the Amazon app .
`` It will give more and more customers the option of receiving Morrisons groceries straight to their doorstep , including freshly prepared products from our brilliant Market Street colleagues . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Emma Munbodh, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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Morrisons has stepped up its partnership with Amazon to offer its full grocery range online with shoppers having their orders delivered on the same day.
All items will now be available online on Amazon and shoppers who spend £40 or more using its Prime service can take advantage of immediate delivery, the Mirror writes.
Amazon first teamed up with the supermarket three years ago where customers could purchase particular items including frozen goods through the online retailer.
Doug Gurr, Amazon UK country manager, said: "The launch of Morrisons on Amazon means increased visibility for Morrisons ’ incredible service and selection, as well as an even greater choice for our customers."
The change will kick off in Leeds with all customers using Amazon's website able to buy their shopping via the "Morrisons on Amazon" shop.
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Amazon Prime customers will also be able to receive free same-day deliveries on orders over £40.
The supermarket giant already runs a larger grocery delivery business through its own website, which is distributed through Ocado.
Morrisons has said the Amazon partnership is "complementary" to its on-demand delivery service it launched with Deliveroo in April.
David Potts, Morrisons chief executive, said: "Morrisons on Amazon will build on our partnership with Amazon, making our good quality, great value food even more accessible through Amazon.co.uk and the Amazon app.
"It will give more and more customers the option of receiving Morrisons groceries straight to their doorstep, including freshly prepared products from our brilliant Market Street colleagues."


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Police officer assaulted by cocaine and heroin dealer

A drug dealer from the Black Country has admitted assaulting a police officer after an arrest in Worcestershire .
Cadonius Lowe , 21 , of Pensnett Road in Dudley , was arrested in Foregate Street in Worcester city centre on Monday , August 17 , after an ongoing ‘ county lines ’ operation .
He assaulted a police constable and was charged on Tuesday with that offence together with two drugs offences – supplying Class A crack cocaine and heroin .
And Lowe appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates ’ Court on Wednesday , August 19 , where he admitted all three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sentencing .
West Mercia Police ’ s South Worcester Proactive CID Team , responsible for targeting serious organised crime in the south of the county and disrupting ‘ county lines ’ drugs operations , where people travel from outside the area , carried out the arrest .
The team Tweeted : “ The arrest of Lowe was made on Foregate Street , Worcester , and was the result of an ongoing investigation being conducted by the team .
“ The hard work will now continue as we prepare for the court process !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has minor injuries only .
“ We charged Cadonius Lowe , aged 21 of Pensnett Road , Dudley with concerned in the supply of Class A ( Crack Cocaine & Heroin ) and assault an emergency worker .
Lowe was remanded in custody and will appear at magistrates court this morning .
“ Cadonius Lowe has today ( Wednesday ) pleaded guilty to all three counts and has been committed to Worcester Crown Court for sentencing on September 14 .
“ Lowe will remain in prison until this date .
Another great result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dealer dealt with .
”

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A drug dealer from the Black Country has admitted assaulting a police officer after an arrest in Worcestershire.
Cadonius Lowe, 21, of Pensnett Road in Dudley, was arrested in Foregate Street in Worcester city centre on Monday, August 17, after an ongoing ‘county lines’ operation.
He assaulted a police constable and was charged on Tuesday with that offence together with two drugs offences – supplying Class A crack cocaine and heroin.
And Lowe appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 19, where he admitted all three offences and was remanded in custody for sentencing.
West Mercia Police ’s South Worcester Proactive CID Team, responsible for targeting serious organised crime in the south of the county and disrupting ‘county lines’ drugs operations, where people travel from outside the area, carried out the arrest.
The team Tweeted: “The arrest of Lowe was made on Foregate Street, Worcester, and was the result of an ongoing investigation being conducted by the team.
“The hard work will now continue as we prepare for the court process! Thankfully, the officer who was assaulted has minor injuries only.
“We charged Cadonius Lowe, aged 21 of Pensnett Road, Dudley with concerned in the supply of Class A (Crack Cocaine & Heroin) and assault an emergency worker. Lowe was remanded in custody and will appear at magistrates court this morning.
“Cadonius Lowe has today (Wednesday) pleaded guilty to all three counts and has been committed to Worcester Crown Court for sentencing on September 14.
“Lowe will remain in prison until this date. Another great result for the team and another county lines dealer dealt with.”


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Boy terrified as Drayton Manor ride breaks down - suspending him in mid-air

A mum has been left livid after a Drayton Manor attraction broke down - suspending her son in mid-air .
The boy was terrified , according to the fuming mother , who said he remained there for 10 minutes during a visit .
The woman , from Derbyshire , has hit out at the Staffordshire attraction , which is based in Tamworth , reports DerbyshireLive , our sister title .
She said it was one of three rides to break down during their visit post-lockdown , the first of their ventures out of the house due to her son 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Brummies , with rollercoasters like Apocalypse and Storm Force 10 , as well as the family-friendly Thomas Land .
But during a recent trip , the Midlands mum was left fuming over her son being suspended by the broken down ride .
Joanne Whorwood , from South Derbyshire , said she and her son , Lachlan , decided to go on the Harold ride in Thomas Land .
In a complaint to the Staffordshire park , she said : `` We totally understand that ride breakdowns can happen from time to time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in some circumstances .
`` However , during our visit , there were three rides we went on , all of which broke down while we were on the rides themselves .
`` Can you imagine being suspended at the highest setting in the air on Harold for 10 minutes with a four-year-old who is completely terrified ?
`` Furthermore , the Troublesome Trucks broke down , and the Sodor cars twice . ''
Mrs Whorwood said : `` By the time we got to the front of the queue ( for another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run out and staff told me to rejoin the queue at the back and I told them there was absolutely no way I was doing that .
`` A family who were already on the ride said we could sit near them so I just got on .
`` If my son had n't been able to get on I do n't think he would have been happy . ''
Mrs Whorwood said she paid almost £60 for two tickets and would not be returning to the park .
William Bryan , managing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Our number one priority is the safety of our guests and all of our rides operate under the strictest health and safety guidelines .
`` There are occasions where rides will be temporarily paused to enable full safety checks to be carried out , and our on-site maintenance teams work tirelessly to ensure these attractions are operational as soon as possible .
`` In addition , we have introduced many new Covid-19 measures , which help to ensure safe social distancing guidelines can be followed .
`` We continually review and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guests and staff are kept safe at all times . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Helen Kreft, James Rodger)

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A mum has been left livid after a Drayton Manor attraction broke down - suspending her son in mid-air.
The boy was terrified, according to the fuming mother, who said he remained there for 10 minutes during a visit.
The woman, from Derbyshire, has hit out at the Staffordshire attraction, which is based in Tamworth, reports DerbyshireLive, our sister title.
She said it was one of three rides to break down during their visit post-lockdown, the first of their ventures out of the house due to her son's shielding.
Drayton Manor is a go-to for Brummies, with rollercoasters like Apocalypse and Storm Force 10, as well as the family-friendly Thomas Land.
But during a recent trip, the Midlands mum was left fuming over her son being suspended by the broken down ride.
Joanne Whorwood, from South Derbyshire, said she and her son, Lachlan, decided to go on the Harold ride in Thomas Land.
In a complaint to the Staffordshire park, she said: "We totally understand that ride breakdowns can happen from time to time and these issues can not be prevented in some circumstances.
"However, during our visit, there were three rides we went on, all of which broke down while we were on the rides themselves.
"Can you imagine being suspended at the highest setting in the air on Harold for 10 minutes with a four-year-old who is completely terrified?
"Furthermore, the Troublesome Trucks broke down, and the Sodor cars twice."
Mrs Whorwood said: "By the time we got to the front of the queue (for another ride), our allotted time had run out and staff told me to rejoin the queue at the back and I told them there was absolutely no way I was doing that.
"A family who were already on the ride said we could sit near them so I just got on.
"If my son hadn't been able to get on I don't think he would have been happy."
Mrs Whorwood said she paid almost £60 for two tickets and would not be returning to the park.
William Bryan, managing director at Drayton Manor Park, said: "Our number one priority is the safety of our guests and all of our rides operate under the strictest health and safety guidelines.
"There are occasions where rides will be temporarily paused to enable full safety checks to be carried out, and our on-site maintenance teams work tirelessly to ensure these attractions are operational as soon as possible.
"In addition, we have introduced many new Covid-19 measures, which help to ensure safe social distancing guidelines can be followed.
"We continually review and monitor these measures, to ensure our guests and staff are kept safe at all times."


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Liverpool outline stance on Aston Villa transfer target Harry Wilson

Liverpool will demand £20m for Aston Villa transfer target Harry Wilson , according to reports .
Dean Smith was extensively linked with the Wales international last summer , after an impressive season in the Championship with Derby County .
He would ultimately join Villa ’ s relegation rivals Bournemouth ahead of the 19/20 campaign , where despite scoring in their win at Villa Park , they were relegated to the Championship .
In all , he scored seven times for the Cherries , but did fall out of favour under Eddie Howe , in the closing weeks of the season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but hasn ’ t been included on their pre-season tour of Austria after suffering an injury .
Villa , Newcastle United and Leeds have all recently been linked with the winger , with the latter believed to be lining up a £15m bid .
However , according to a report in the Mirror , Jurgen Klopp is looking for closer to £20m , as he looks to fund his own transfer plans .
Smith is keen to add extra quality in wide areas , with Jack Grealish , Trezeguet and Anwar El @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It has been reported that Villa would only look at Wilson , should a permanent move be on the cards , with the club looking to move away from having a large proportion of players on-loan .

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Liverpool will demand £20m for Aston Villa transfer target Harry Wilson, according to reports.
Dean Smith was extensively linked with the Wales international last summer, after an impressive season in the Championship with Derby County.
He would ultimately join Villa’s relegation rivals Bournemouth ahead of the 19/20 campaign, where despite scoring in their win at Villa Park, they were relegated to the Championship.
In all, he scored seven times for the Cherries, but did fall out of favour under Eddie Howe, in the closing weeks of the season.
Wilson is now back with Liverpool, but hasn’t been included on their pre-season tour of Austria after suffering an injury.
Villa, Newcastle United and Leeds have all recently been linked with the winger, with the latter believed to be lining up a £15m bid.
However, according to a report in the Mirror, Jurgen Klopp is looking for closer to £20m, as he looks to fund his own transfer plans.
Smith is keen to add extra quality in wide areas, with Jack Grealish, Trezeguet and Anwar El Ghazi his current options on the wings.
It has been reported that Villa would only look at Wilson, should a permanent move be on the cards, with the club looking to move away from having a large proportion of players on-loan.


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Brittany Ferries to axe routes affecting 50,000 travellers

Brittany Ferries have announced plans to axe sailings following quarantine restrictions from France and Soain .
Around 50,000 will be affected by the move as the French ferry firm warned that demand for autumn sailings is “ extremely weak ” as the coronavirus pandemic continues to disrupt the tourism industry .
Last weekend saw 35,000 passengers either cancel or delay their travel plans following the two-week isolation decision , the Mirror writes .
Normally the firm would see between 2.5 and 2.7 million passengers travel each year - the company has reported an annual turnover of €444.2m .
But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Portsmouth to St-Malo in France and also to Bilbao in Spain .
Two ferries will be withdrawn from its fleet of 12 and a third , Etretat , will not return to service .
It has confirmed the following changes : • Brittany Ferries Pont-Aven will replace Armorique on the Plymouth to Roscoff route from 10 September with three return trips per week .
• Pont-Aven will operate one return sailing from Plymouth to Santander and from Roscoff to Cork in the week .
• Brittany Ferries Bretagne will not be in service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Portsmouth to St Malo route .
• Brittany Ferries Etretat will not now continue with sailings and Connemara will continue to operate the Cherbourg and Le Havre sailings from Portsmouth , but will no longer serve Spain .
A spokeswoman said : “ Brittany Ferries apologises in advance for the inconvenience and will do all it can to accommodate displaced customers on other services .
“ The call centre is expected to be very busy in the days ahead .
“ Passengers are therefore asked to wait for notification of any change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – to make alternative arrangements via the My Booking facility on the website . ''
Brittany Ferries director general Christophe Mathieu added : “ We warned over the weekend that schedule changes were likely , as quarantine measures have led to a significant drop in demand for our services .
“ This is not something we want to do .
However , in the context of a terrible summer season we have no choice but to consolidate sailings that , by virtue of lack of passenger numbers , are uneconomic to run .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ we apologise in advance to all those whose travel plans will be disrupted .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Rosaleen Fenton, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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Brittany Ferries have announced plans to axe sailings following quarantine restrictions from France and Soain.
Around 50,000 will be affected by the move as the French ferry firm warned that demand for autumn sailings is “extremely weak” as the coronavirus pandemic continues to disrupt the tourism industry.
Last weekend saw 35,000 passengers either cancel or delay their travel plans following the two-week isolation decision, the Mirror writes.
Normally the firm would see between 2.5 and 2.7 million passengers travel each year - the company has reported an annual turnover of €444.2m.
But the ferry company has now cut sailings from Portsmouth to St-Malo in France and also to Bilbao in Spain.
Two ferries will be withdrawn from its fleet of 12 and a third, Etretat, will not return to service.
It has confirmed the following changes:
Brittany Ferries Pont-Aven will replace Armorique on the Plymouth to Roscoff route from 10 September with three return trips per week.
Pont-Aven will operate one return sailing from Plymouth to Santander and from Roscoff to Cork in the week.
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Brittany Ferries Bretagne will not be in service from 7 September. The ferry serves the Portsmouth to St Malo route.
Brittany Ferries Etretat will not now continue with sailings and Connemara will continue to operate the Cherbourg and Le Havre sailings from Portsmouth, but will no longer serve Spain.
A spokeswoman said: “Brittany Ferries apologises in advance for the inconvenience and will do all it can to accommodate displaced customers on other services.
“The call centre is expected to be very busy in the days ahead.
“Passengers are therefore asked to wait for notification of any change to their booking and – where possible – to make alternative arrangements via the My Booking facility on the website."
Brittany Ferries director general Christophe Mathieu added: “We warned over the weekend that schedule changes were likely, as quarantine measures have led to a significant drop in demand for our services.
“This is not something we want to do. However, in the context of a terrible summer season we have no choice but to consolidate sailings that, by virtue of lack of passenger numbers, are uneconomic to run.
“These extraordinary decisions are regrettable and we apologise in advance to all those whose travel plans will be disrupted.”


birminghammail--2020-08-19--Dan Crowley can make himself central to Aitor Karanka's Blues

Aitor Karanka has only just touched down at St Andrew ’ s but is already facing up to a month which will undoubtedly define Birmingham City ’ s season .
The Spaniard must mould a team together in his image , whip them into shape in pre-season and add quality to a squad which included just 13 senior professionals prior to his arrival .
George Friend has become Blues ’ first signing of the Karanka era to take that total to 14 but there ’ s still lots of work to be done before the season kicks off in September @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to complete a major overhaul so Karanka will be required to work with what ’ s already at Wast Hills .
And one of those players , Dan Crowley , will be hoping to earn a leading role in Karanka ’ s plans for 2020/21 .
The former Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest boss is known to favour a 4-2-3-1 formation which centres around a creative number 10 .
The only player on Blues ’ books who can claim to meet that criteria is Crowley , a £750,000 arrival from Dutch club Willem II @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assists from 41 appearances in his first season was a modest return but there ’ s no doubt Blues played their best football when Crowley played his .
The majority of Crowley ’ s games last term saw him deployed on the right flank , with Pep Clotet limiting him to just two starts in the central attacking midfield role While Crowley flourished out wide on occasions - with the win over Boro at St Andrew ’ s springing to mind - he found himself on the periphery of games far too often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transfer market suggests he likes dynamism on the flanks and a player with craft in the middle of the three who support his lone striker .
Crowley is certainly better suited to the role in the middle if Karanka sticks to those principles in his latest managerial role .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store But Karanka will demand a return from Crowley if he does indeed give him the chance to prove himself more centrally .
Gaston Ramirez filled the role towards the end of Karanka ’ s promotion-winning season at Boro and chipped in with seven goals in 15 starts .
Crowley , who recently turned 23 , is capable of delivering those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and seven assists in his final season with Willem II .
The Eredivisie is a different ball game though and Crowley still has to prove himself in the Championship .
But in order to take on a more important role , he must first win over Karanka .

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Aitor Karanka has only just touched down at St Andrew’s but is already facing up to a month which will undoubtedly define Birmingham City’s season.
The Spaniard must mould a team together in his image, whip them into shape in pre-season and add quality to a squad which included just 13 senior professionals prior to his arrival.
George Friend has become Blues’ first signing of the Karanka era to take that total to 14 but there’s still lots of work to be done before the season kicks off in September.
There isn’t enough time to complete a major overhaul so Karanka will be required to work with what’s already at Wast Hills.
And one of those players, Dan Crowley, will be hoping to earn a leading role in Karanka’s plans for 2020/21.
The former Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest boss is known to favour a 4-2-3-1 formation which centres around a creative number 10.
The only player on Blues’ books who can claim to meet that criteria is Crowley, a £750,000 arrival from Dutch club Willem II last year.
Two goals and five assists from 41 appearances in his first season was a modest return but there’s no doubt Blues played their best football when Crowley played his.
The majority of Crowley’s games last term saw him deployed on the right flank, with Pep Clotet limiting him to just two starts in the central attacking midfield role
While Crowley flourished out wide on occasions - with the win over Boro at St Andrew’s springing to mind - he found himself on the periphery of games far too often.
Karanka’s track record in the transfer market suggests he likes dynamism on the flanks and a player with craft in the middle of the three who support his lone striker.
Crowley is certainly better suited to the role in the middle if Karanka sticks to those principles in his latest managerial role.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
But Karanka will demand a return from Crowley if he does indeed give him the chance to prove himself more centrally.
Gaston Ramirez filled the role towards the end of Karanka’s promotion-winning season at Boro and chipped in with seven goals in 15 starts.
Crowley, who recently turned 23, is capable of delivering those kinds of numbers having managed five goals and seven assists in his final season with Willem II.
The Eredivisie is a different ball game though and Crowley still has to prove himself in the Championship. But in order to take on a more important role, he must first win over Karanka.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Screwfix closes West Midlands store over coronavirus concerns

Screwfix bosses have said they are carrying out a deep clean at its Nuneaton store which has closed as a “ precaution ” .
The firm has said that ‘ additional cleaning ’ is taking place at the store after a member of staff became unwell with potential Covid-19 symptoms .
A spokeswoman said that they hope to open again ‘ soon ’ , reports CoventryLive .
`` Our stringent safety measures mean our Nuneaton store has temporarily closed for additional cleaning , '' the spokesperson said .
`` We are taking precautionary measures to keep our customers and colleagues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon . ''
Warwickshire Public Health has confirmed that the store took “ quick action ” to close and stressed that it is “ unlikely ” that any customers came into contact with the staff member .
In a statement issued yesterday ( August 19 ) , Emily van de Venter , Associate Director of Public Health in Warwickshire , said : `` We are aware that the Bermuda Park Screwfix in Nuneaton closed yesterday ( August 18 ) when one of their members of staff became unwell with potential Covid-19 symptoms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ they wait for test results , Screwfix have taken swift action to close the store in Nuneaton to safeguard both the wellbeing of its workforce and customers .
`` In addition , the company are also reviewing any close contacts with the case in the Nuneaton store in preparation for the possibility of a positive test result .
`` Due to the robust measures already in place to protect customers , it is unlikely that any customers had close contact with the staff member concerned .
`` However , I commend Screwfix for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety of both their staff and customers . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Claire Harrison, James Rodger)

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Screwfix bosses have said they are carrying out a deep clean at its Nuneaton store which has closed as a “precaution”.
The firm has said that ‘additional cleaning’ is taking place at the store after a member of staff became unwell with potential Covid-19 symptoms.
A spokeswoman said that they hope to open again ‘soon’, reports CoventryLive.
"Our stringent safety measures mean our Nuneaton store has temporarily closed for additional cleaning," the spokesperson said.
"We are taking precautionary measures to keep our customers and colleagues safe and we hope to be open soon."
Warwickshire Public Health has confirmed that the store took “quick action” to close and stressed that it is “unlikely” that any customers came into contact with the staff member.
In a statement issued yesterday (August 19), Emily van de Venter, Associate Director of Public Health in Warwickshire, said: "We are aware that the Bermuda Park Screwfix in Nuneaton closed yesterday (August 18) when one of their members of staff became unwell with potential Covid-19 symptoms.
"As a precautionary measure, while they wait for test results, Screwfix have taken swift action to close the store in Nuneaton to safeguard both the wellbeing of its workforce and customers.
"In addition, the company are also reviewing any close contacts with the case in the Nuneaton store in preparation for the possibility of a positive test result.
"Due to the robust measures already in place to protect customers, it is unlikely that any customers had close contact with the staff member concerned.
"However, I commend Screwfix for their swift action and for ensuring the safety of both their staff and customers."


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Watch: Huge bang as Rugeley Power station boiler house demolished

This is the moment a key part of Rugeley Power Station disappeared in a large explosion .
A huge bang @ @ @ @ @ the boiler house vanished in smoke and debris , as scores of watchers looked on @ @ @ @ @ place at 10am on August 20 and is the the sixth controlled collapse demolition event @ @ @ @ @ Station .
The boiler house structure was made of steel and around 73m high .
@ @ @ @ @ in place to keep people away , with the boundaries within the power station boundary @ @ @ @ @ structures , including Chimney and Cooling Towers , are scheduled for explosive demolition at a @ @ @ @ @ of the site is expected to be completed in 2021 .

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This is the moment a key part of Rugeley Power Station disappeared in a large explosion.
A huge bang echoed over the town as the boiler house vanished in smoke and debris, as scores of watchers looked on.
The controlled demolition took place at 10am on August 20 and is the the sixth controlled collapse demolition event using explosives at Rugeley Power Station.
The boiler house structure was made of steel and around 73m high.
An exclusion zone was put in place to keep people away, with the boundaries within the power station boundary fence.
The other main structures, including Chimney and Cooling Towers, are scheduled for explosive demolition at a later date. The demolition of the site is expected to be completed in 2021.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--'Night stalker' Aman Vyas jailed over harrowing string of rapes

A murderer and serial stranger rapist dubbed the `` E17 night stalker '' has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 37 years .
Aman Vyas , 35 , was sentenced on Thursday for six counts of rape of four women , grievous bodily harm and the 2009 murder of 35-year-old Michelle Samaraweera , after a trial at Croydon Crown Court .
Prosecutor Tom Little QC called Vyas `` the E17 night stalker '' as he told jurors the attacker turned a small area near his home in Walthamstow , east London , into his `` hunting ground @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rapes '' between March and May 2009 .
He fled the UK two days after a Crimewatch appeal featuring an e-fit picture , and was arrested in India in 2011 after his former boss gave police a water bottle Vyas 's brother had drunk from , which showed partial DNA linked to the crimes was a male sibling .
Detectives said Vyas last year became only the third person , and the second Indian national , to be extradited from India to the UK , following an eight-year court battle involving around 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ann Chandradasa , 48 , said : `` I actually really thought that he was literally going to get away with murder because of the amount of time he was in India and the amount of hearings .
`` I 'm just glad we have finally got justice for Michelle and I 'm glad that the other victims have got justice as well .
`` It 's partial closure .
Him being in prison does n't take away the pain of what 's happened and what all these women have been through .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ visiting a supermarket at around 1am on May 30 2009 .
Vyas was 24 when he raped and strangled her in a children 's playground , where her body was discovered by a dog walker shortly after 5.15am .
He was also convicted of raping three other women aged between 35 and 59 in March and April 2009 .
Sentencing him to life with a minimum sentence of 37 years , Mr Justice Bryan told Vyas : `` In the spring of 2009 , there was a stranger rapist prowling the streets of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were that rapist . ''
The judge said Vyas stalked Ms Samaraweera before killing her by asphyxiation , although the exact method is not known .
`` You were willing to kill in pursuit of your sexual perversions and in Michelle you found a victim who fought back , '' he said .
`` She had to be silenced and silenced she was . ''
Vyas , who has two children aged nine and five , evaded justice for more than a decade , leaving Britain weeks after his attack on Ms Samaraweera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which saw police send more than 60,000 leaflets including CCTV images of the suspect , Vyas 's former employer contacted authorities .
Vyas had already fled to India but was arrested and finally extradited in October 2019 .
Detective Sergeant Shaleena Sheikh said : `` Vyas carried out horrific and violent attacks on four women which , tragically , culminated in the murder of Michelle Samaraweera .
He then did all he could to evade responsibility for his crimes and fled to India .
`` He added further distress to those he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I would like to commend the dignity and bravery shown by his victims and their families throughout this process , which has lasted over 10 years .
`` Despite having DNA from the scenes of the crimes , Vyas was not on the database and this prompted a lengthy and complex investigation , which saw more than 1,100 DNA swabs taken and 1,815 addresses visited .
We also issued more than 60,500 posters displaying an image of the suspect .
`` The scale of this investigation has been remarkable and the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inquiries to many different countries and resulting in a lengthy extradition process . ''
Vyas has already served just over two years on remand in India and the UK and will be eligible for release after 34 years , although the judge said he may never be freed .

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A murderer and serial stranger rapist dubbed the "E17 night stalker" has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 37 years.
Aman Vyas, 35, was sentenced on Thursday for six counts of rape of four women, grievous bodily harm and the 2009 murder of 35-year-old Michelle Samaraweera, after a trial at Croydon Crown Court.
Prosecutor Tom Little QC called Vyas "the E17 night stalker" as he told jurors the attacker turned a small area near his home in Walthamstow, east London, into his "hunting ground" for a "series of violent rapes" between March and May 2009.
He fled the UK two days after a Crimewatch appeal featuring an e-fit picture, and was arrested in India in 2011 after his former boss gave police a water bottle Vyas's brother had drunk from, which showed partial DNA linked to the crimes was a male sibling.
Detectives said Vyas last year became only the third person, and the second Indian national, to be extradited from India to the UK, following an eight-year court battle involving around 30 hearings.
Ms Samaraweera's sister, Ann Chandradasa, 48, said: "I actually really thought that he was literally going to get away with murder because of the amount of time he was in India and the amount of hearings.
"I'm just glad we have finally got justice for Michelle and I'm glad that the other victims have got justice as well.
(Image: PA)
"It's partial closure. Him being in prison doesn't take away the pain of what's happened and what all these women have been through."
Ms Samaraweera was attacked shortly after visiting a supermarket at around 1am on May 30 2009.
Vyas was 24 when he raped and strangled her in a children's playground, where her body was discovered by a dog walker shortly after 5.15am.
He was also convicted of raping three other women aged between 35 and 59 in March and April 2009.
Sentencing him to life with a minimum sentence of 37 years, Mr Justice Bryan told Vyas: "In the spring of 2009, there was a stranger rapist prowling the streets of Walthamstow looking for his prey. You were that rapist."
The judge said Vyas stalked Ms Samaraweera before killing her by asphyxiation, although the exact method is not known.
"You were willing to kill in pursuit of your sexual perversions and in Michelle you found a victim who fought back," he said.
"She had to be silenced and silenced she was."
Vyas, who has two children aged nine and five, evaded justice for more than a decade, leaving Britain weeks after his attack on Ms Samaraweera.
But after a 2010 police appeal, which saw police send more than 60,000 leaflets including CCTV images of the suspect, Vyas's former employer contacted authorities.
Vyas had already fled to India but was arrested and finally extradited in October 2019.
Detective Sergeant Shaleena Sheikh said: "Vyas carried out horrific and violent attacks on four women which, tragically, culminated in the murder of Michelle Samaraweera. He then did all he could to evade responsibility for his crimes and fled to India.
"He added further distress to those he hurt by subjecting them to a trial. I would like to commend the dignity and bravery shown by his victims and their families throughout this process, which has lasted over 10 years.
"Despite having DNA from the scenes of the crimes, Vyas was not on the database and this prompted a lengthy and complex investigation, which saw more than 1,100 DNA swabs taken and 1,815 addresses visited. We also issued more than 60,500 posters displaying an image of the suspect.
"The scale of this investigation has been remarkable and the case has lasted a decade, taking our inquiries to many different countries and resulting in a lengthy extradition process."
Vyas has already served just over two years on remand in India and the UK and will be eligible for release after 34 years, although the judge said he may never be freed.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Live - Birmingham chiefs brief Matt Hancock over lockdown fears

Fears of a local lockdown for Birmingham are mounting as news emerges that the Health Secretary Matt Hancock has summoned city leaders to brief him on the city 's rising infection rates .
We understand that city leader Cllr Ian Ward , chief executive Chris Naylor and public health director Dr Justin Varney are briefing him about the current situation , along with Public Health England .
Birmingham City Council has so far refused to provide any details to local media except to say it will not be commenting ahead of the meeting .
Matt Hancock , the Health Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gold command '' over the possibility of a citywide lockdown .
Birmingham has been in the spotlight after infection rates rose across the city , with 330 new cases in a week setting alarm bells ringing .
We understand the rate is around 30 cases per 100,000 people .
Health , business and political leaders have joined forces to press people to do more to avert the potential 'disaster ' of new lockdown measures .
In a hard hitting statement yesterday , council chief Ian Ward issued an urgent `` wake up '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into lockdown .

12:50
Lastest on infection rates in city - and what the numbers mean
Two sets of data are released every day giving the infection rates for every local authority in the country, based on a rolling seven day period.
One set of information comes from Public Health England - you can see today’s story here giving the rates for Birmingham and the rest of the Black Country for the seven days up to Sunday (August 16). This shows a rate of 30.0 new cases per 100,000 people - the equivalent of 342 cases in a week across the city.
However, a second set of information comes from NHS Digital, who draw on the same set of information but produce data that is slightly more up to date. The rate for Birmingham for the seven days up to Monday (August 17) is 25.6.
So - the situation looks positive and moving in the right direction - but comes with a note of caution.
Dr Justin Varney, the city’s director of public health, says the trend in cases - whether up or down - will be clearer in the early part of next week.
He said on Monday: “There is fluctuation daily but what we have been seeing over the past two weeks is a consistent rise.
“We have looked at Blackburn with Darwen (where there have been local restrictions imposed) and Greater Manchester (subject to a regional lockdown) and what we see is a direction of travel that is concerning.
“The next two weeks is really important and we need everyone to play their part.
“This will not shoot up overnight, we will not be in lockdown by Friday for example - but the picture over the next week or two so is what we will be tracking carefully and it’s also why we are ramping up our response and messages to the public.”


birminghammail--2020-08-20--'Oh s***' - Eamonn Holmes issues apology after This Morning guest swears

Eamonn Holmes has been forced to warn a This Morning guest over swearing after being forced to apologise live on ITV1 today .
This Morning host Eamonn Holmes joked he may be axed from the show , after a second guest swore just days after a first incident .
Eamonn and wife Ruth Langsford welcomed chef and restaurateur Mark Hix to the ITV1 daytime TV favourite via video link .
Mr Hix dialled in having sadly lost his London restaurant empire recently amid the Covid-19 crisis .
Mark is now running an oyster and fish food truck in Dorset , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke to Eamonn and Ruth .
He shared his shock over how things changed so quickly , telling the pair : `` Oh s**t. '' Eamonn warned : `` Just before we get closed down as well I have to say , some words are not allowed to be used on daytime television .
`` I understand this is an emotional time for you and you 're on edge but ... so we apologise for that . ''
One viewer flocked to Twitter to write : `` What a week !
Two 's**t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in with : `` You ca n't say 's**t ' when you 're live on # ThisMorning Oh the offence . ''
A third added : `` S-Bombs getting dropped all over # ThisMorning this week . ''
This Morning airs each weekday on ITV1 .

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Eamonn Holmes has been forced to warn a This Morning guest over swearing after being forced to apologise live on ITV1 today.
This Morning host Eamonn Holmes joked he may be axed from the show, after a second guest swore just days after a first incident.
Eamonn and wife Ruth Langsford welcomed chef and restaurateur Mark Hix to the ITV1 daytime TV favourite via video link.
Mr Hix dialled in having sadly lost his London restaurant empire recently amid the Covid-19 crisis.
Mark is now running an oyster and fish food truck in Dorset, and drank a Bloody Mary as he spoke to Eamonn and Ruth.
He shared his shock over how things changed so quickly, telling the pair: "Oh s**t."
Eamonn warned: "Just before we get closed down as well I have to say, some words are not allowed to be used on daytime television.
"I understand this is an emotional time for you and you're on edge but... so we apologise for that."
One viewer flocked to Twitter to write: "What a week! Two 's**t' slips."
A second chipped in with: "You can't say 's**t' when you're live on #ThisMorning Oh the offence."
A third added: "S-Bombs getting dropped all over #ThisMorning this week."
This Morning airs each weekday on ITV1.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Revealed: Weston McKennie's stance on Aston Villa transfer

Aston Villa have identified the need for a new midfielder in their transfer planning and the club have been linked to Schalke middleman Weston McKennie .
That interest is mutual , with the 21-year-old Texas-born player ready to make a move to the Premier League - making his stance on a move to Villa known .
Sources close to the player have revealed to BirminghamLive that not only is McKennie open to a Premier League move - but that he has asked about both Villa and Southampton ahead of a transfer to England this summer , and is hoping for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This follows reporting by The Athletic that the Villa are interested in the American international .
It has also been previously reported that McKennie turned down a move to Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin to pursue his main goal of playing in the English top tier - which both the Saints and Villa could offer to the player .
Southampton 's own desire to purchase McKennie remains the prime concern for Villa , with Sky Sports reporting that the Saints are in talks with Schalke over a deal worth around £20 million .
McKennie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and has made nearly 100 appearances for the club , playing 19 times for the USMNT at the same time .
There are no reports of a Villa bid as of yet .

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Aston Villa have identified the need for a new midfielder in their transfer planning and the club have been linked to Schalke middleman Weston McKennie.
That interest is mutual, with the 21-year-old Texas-born player ready to make a move to the Premier League - making his stance on a move to Villa known.
Sources close to the player have revealed to BirminghamLive that not only is McKennie open to a Premier League move - but that he has asked about both Villa and Southampton ahead of a transfer to England this summer, and is hoping for a serious offer from either club.
This follows reporting by The Athletic that the Villa are interested in the American international.
It has also been previously reported that McKennie turned down a move to Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin to pursue his main goal of playing in the English top tier - which both the Saints and Villa could offer to the player.
Southampton's own desire to purchase McKennie remains the prime concern for Villa, with Sky Sports reporting that the Saints are in talks with Schalke over a deal worth around £20 million.
McKennie joined Schalke from FC Dallas in 2016, and has made nearly 100 appearances for the club, playing 19 times for the USMNT at the same time.
There are no reports of a Villa bid as of yet.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--The furlough scheme change which will affect one in eight workers

Changes to the furlough scheme are incoming - causing chaos for some workers as the initiative is wound down by the government .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak will wind down the scheme from October , with firms weaned off it amid fears employers could become `` addicted '' .
Mr Sunak announced the scheme in mid-March , at the height of the Covid-19 crisis , with the unprecedented pandemic causing the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to start .
As it ends in October , around one eighth of British workers remain on furlough as the programme begins to come to its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) show 12 % of the workforce is still furloughed , having contacted 23,905 businesses regarding trading and the impact of the virus for the two-week period to August 9 .
Two-thirds of furloughed employees , 67 % , said they were receiving top-up payments from their employers as well as the 80 % contribution from the Government .
Next month , the Government will only contribute 70 % of wages , with this reducing to 60 % in October , before the furlough scheme is completely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on October 31 , firms must decide to either bring employees back to work on their normal hours , reduce employees ’ hours or terminate their employment ( normal redundancy rules apply to furloughed employees ) .
HMRC , meanwhile , is probing a staggering 8,000 reports of furlough fraud .
A Solihull man became the first charged in connection with a report of alleged furlough fraud earlier this summer .
He was arrested and charged over an alleged fraud worth a staggering half a million pounds .

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Changes to the furlough scheme are incoming - causing chaos for some workers as the initiative is wound down by the government.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak will wind down the scheme from October, with firms weaned off it amid fears employers could become "addicted".
Mr Sunak announced the scheme in mid-March, at the height of the Covid-19 crisis, with the unprecedented pandemic causing the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to start.
As it ends in October, around one eighth of British workers remain on furlough as the programme begins to come to its conclusion.
New figures taken by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show 12% of the workforce is still furloughed, having contacted 23,905 businesses regarding trading and the impact of the virus for the two-week period to August 9.
Two-thirds of furloughed employees, 67%, said they were receiving top-up payments from their employers as well as the 80% contribution from the Government.
Next month, the Government will only contribute 70% of wages, with this reducing to 60% in October, before the furlough scheme is completely wound down.
When the scheme closes on October 31, firms must decide to either bring employees back to work on their normal hours, reduce employees’ hours or terminate their employment ( normal redundancy rules apply to furloughed employees ).
HMRC, meanwhile, is probing a staggering 8,000 reports of furlough fraud.
A Solihull man became the first charged in connection with a report of alleged furlough fraud earlier this summer.
He was arrested and charged over an alleged fraud worth a staggering half a million pounds.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Birmingham bin strike leader stands to be head of UK's biggest union

Howard Beckett , who twice led striking bin workers to victory in Birmingham , is standing to become the leader of the UK 's largest trade union .
He 's entered the contest to become General Secretary of Unite , which has 1.2 million members .
The outgoing General Secretary , Len McCluskey , is the nation 's best-known union leader and an infuential figure in the Labour Party .
Mr Beckett is assistant general secretary of Unite and has been acting regional secretary in the West Midlands .
He played a leading role in the bin disputes which led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A three-month dispute in 2017 saw mountains of rubbish left festering in Birmingham 's streets .
Residents had to cope with packed bin bags piled high , while flies , maggots and rats were widely reported .
It followed the city council 's decision to make some `` grade 3 '' workers redundant , and ended after the council agreed that staff would remain on their current wages in new recycling roles .
The dispute led to the resignation of the council 's leader at the time , John Clancy .
At one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court injunction preventing the council from making staff redundant .
Birmingham City Council said the strike had cost it £6m .
But there was more industrial action in 2019 after it emerged the council had made payments to refuse workers who were members of the GMB union and did not strike .
Eventually , the council agreed to make payments to Unite members too .
This dispute cost the council £5.8m .
Mr Beckett led the union 's efforts in the city during these disputes , and was regularly seen on protests with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticised the council in a speech to the Labour conference , telling delegates that Birmingham ’ s Labour-run council was imposing “ austerity ” on staff and had “ reneged ” on a deal to end the strike .
Mr McCluskey is not due to stand down until 2022 , and the election campaign to choose his successor as general secretary begins next year .
Like Mr McCluskey , Mr Beckett has been a vocal supporter of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn .
He has also been a critic of the current leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failing to offer strong opposition to the Tories .
He said on Twitter in July : `` Sorry to say but I despair .
What are Labour playing at ? ''

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Howard Beckett, who twice led striking bin workers to victory in Birmingham, is standing to become the leader of the UK's largest trade union.
He's entered the contest to become General Secretary of Unite, which has 1.2 million members. The outgoing General Secretary, Len McCluskey, is the nation's best-known union leader and an infuential figure in the Labour Party.
Mr Beckett is assistant general secretary of Unite and has been acting regional secretary in the West Midlands. He played a leading role in the bin disputes which led to humiliation for Birmingham City Council.
A three-month dispute in 2017 saw mountains of rubbish left festering in Birmingham's streets. Residents had to cope with packed bin bags piled high, while flies, maggots and rats were widely reported.
It followed the city council's decision to make some "grade 3" workers redundant, and ended after the council agreed that staff would remain on their current wages in new recycling roles.
The dispute led to the resignation of the council's leader at the time, John Clancy. At one point, Unite succeeded in gaining a court injunction preventing the council from making staff redundant.
Birmingham City Council said the strike had cost it £6m. But there was more industrial action in 2019 after it emerged the council had made payments to refuse workers who were members of the GMB union and did not strike.
Eventually, the council agreed to make payments to Unite members too. This dispute cost the council £5.8m.
Mr Beckett led the union's efforts in the city during these disputes, and was regularly seen on protests with striking bin workers.
In 2017 he criticised the council in a speech to the Labour conference, telling delegates that Birmingham’s Labour-run council was imposing “austerity” on staff and had “reneged” on a deal to end the strike.
Mr McCluskey is not due to stand down until 2022, and the election campaign to choose his successor as general secretary begins next year.
Like Mr McCluskey, Mr Beckett has been a vocal supporter of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. He has also been a critic of the current leader, Keir Starmer, accusing him of failing to offer strong opposition to the Tories. He said on Twitter in July: "Sorry to say but I despair. What are Labour playing at?"