birminghammail--2020-10-26--Birmingham cat goes viral with cheeky reaction to U2 songs

Meet Britain 's cheekiest cat who sticks his TONGUE out every time he hears his favourite U2 song .
Jesse , a nine-year-old long haired Persian , has gone viral after owner Gary Adams posted a video online of him lapping up Bono belting out the hits .
Gary , 49 , says the moggie always sticks his tongue out while listening to U2 classic 'Where The Streets Have No Name ' .
Bizarrely , Jesse 's tongue remains protruding for several hours afterwards and he has become notorious around the neighbourhood of Harborne in Birmingham .
A video clip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his head to the beat midway through the guitar solo .
Gary , who adopted fromer stray Jesse six years ago when he wandered into his garden , “ He is quite well known in the neighborhood for sitting outside the house waiting for passers-by .
`` He likes to listen to U2 every day and his tongue just comes out and it stays there for the rest of the day .
“ He lies down on his back , sticks his tongue out and waits for a stroke on his belly .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ After he was abandoned and came into our garden we took him to the vet to sort out his teeth .
“ He had gum disease and had to have one of his two front teeth removed - that ’ s when he started sticking his tongue out but only when he heard U2 .
“ He is cheeky and a bit of a character .
It ’ s quite unusual for cats to stick their tongue out .
“ It ’ s also unusual how he follows you round like a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circular route . ''
Gary , an area manager for energy giant E.On , added : “ He does like music and sticks his tongue out during U2 ’ s The Streets Have No Name .
“ When it gets to the guitar solo it ’ s as if his mouth gets relaxed by the music , but he doesn ’ t do it during other songs .
`` I posted some video on social media and within 24 hours more than 20,000 people around the world had viewed and shared it .
@ @ @ @ @

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Meet Britain's cheekiest cat who sticks his TONGUE out every time he hears his favourite U2 song.
Jesse, a nine-year-old long haired Persian, has gone viral after owner Gary Adams posted a video online of him lapping up Bono belting out the hits.
Gary, 49, says the moggie always sticks his tongue out while listening to U2 classic 'Where The Streets Have No Name'.
Bizarrely, Jesse's tongue remains protruding for several hours afterwards and he has become notorious around the neighbourhood of Harborne in Birmingham.
A video clip shows Jesse closing his eyes and bobbing his head to the beat midway through the guitar solo.
Gary, who adopted fromer stray Jesse six years ago when he wandered into his garden,
“He is quite well known in the neighborhood for sitting outside the house waiting for passers-by.
(Image: Anita Maric / SWNS)
"He likes to listen to U2 every day and his tongue just comes out and it stays there for the rest of the day.
“He lies down on his back, sticks his tongue out and waits for a stroke on his belly. He really does make people laugh.
“After he was abandoned and came into our garden we took him to the vet to sort out his teeth.
(Image: Anita Maric / SWNS)
“He had gum disease and had to have one of his two front teeth removed - that’s when he started sticking his tongue out but only when he heard U2.
“He is cheeky and a bit of a character. It’s quite unusual for cats to stick their tongue out.
“It’s also unusual how he follows you round like a dog and joins us on a half-mile circular route."
Gary, an area manager for energy giant E.On, added: “He does like music and sticks his tongue out during U2’s The Streets Have No Name.
“When it gets to the guitar solo it’s as if his mouth gets relaxed by the music, but he doesn’t do it during other songs.
"I posted some video on social media and within 24 hours more than 20,000 people around the world had viewed and shared it. It went bonkers."


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Birmingham's brilliant communities rally to feed poor kids this half term

Hundreds of poorer families across Birmingham are today receiving hot meals and packed lunches after a phenomenal community response to calls to feed kids this half term .
Brummies across the city have stepped up - some motivated by anger , some by a straightforward desire to 'do something ' .
Inspired by football star Marcus Rashford , community activists and businesses reacted at speed and with love to try to plug a gap amid concerns that children entitled to free school meals might go hungry this half term .
They acted after MPs rejected a call for the scheme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half term and the forthcoming Christmas holiday .
Campaigners argued the exceptional impact of the coronavirus pandemic required an exceptional response .
The failure of the Labour motion in Parliament inspired an instant backlash against those Conservative MPs who opposed it - but it also inspired urgent action .
Birmingham City Council announced on Friday afternoon that it was going to act and ensure every one of the families of the city 's 61,000 kids entitled to Free School Meals would get extra funds to cover the week .
But there was also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northfield residents and businesses among the first to rally , in part because the constituency 's MP Gary Sambrook was among those who opposed the plan .
Local councillor Olly Armstrong said : `` A group of us in Northfield , alongside Digbeth Dining Club , decided we needed to to step up and do what we can to provide hot food for struggling local families .
`` Families and children will be referred to us through local schools , foodbanks , churches and community organisations .
They will also be offered any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northfield Community Partnership and the Northfield Stakeholders Group .
Sarah , from Full of Chaat , part of Digbeth Dining Club , joined the group : `` Watching so many MPs voting against Free School Meals for children in the UK was not only heartbreaking but shameful .
It doesn ’ t matter where you stand politically , nobody should go to bed hungry.
” She added : “ A group of us , all connected to Digbeth Dining Club in some way , decided that night that we were sick of complaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help in some way . ''
But with only a day before schools broke up , there was a need to move fast and join forces with others .
The result was Northfield Food Service - created , organised and ready to deliver food within 48 hours .
`` What we are doing is a drop in the ocean but it ’ s overwhelming to see the passion people are showing for the cause .
I feel so proud that people all over the country are pulling together and uniting on this .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t wait to look at ways that we can help further going forward . ''
The organisation today tweeted a photo showing meals packed up and ready to be distributed , under Covid secure delivery arrangements .
Another to step up quickly was Midland Mencap , which supports families and children with learning disabilities .
They announced initially they were going to help any affected families in Weoley Castle by distributing packed lunches - but after a phenomenal response from residents and businesses giving donations , they are now offering the service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the city .
Chief Executive Dave Rogers said : `` We have had such an overwhelming response from donations so we will be able to offer packed lunches to people living right across south and south west Birmingham . ''
Dave Pickard , also from Midland Mencap , said : `` The phone has been ringing off the hook since we announced what we were doing .
It shows how many people out there are in need . ''
Teacher Paul Jones , 42 , said he had donated to the charity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Birmingham ... sometimes the only hot meal some children get is at school . ''
Meanwhile , an organisation that has a base in Ladywood announced it was providing free lunches to anyone who called by at lunchtime this week .
The Front Room , a new community enterprise that operates from a barge at South Loop Park , off Rotton Park Street B16 0AE , is putting on lunch from 11am to 2.30pm this week , providing lunch , fruit , hot chocolate , cake , books and activities .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... whether you pop in for one sarnie to take home or hang out with us all week , '' said coordinator Imandeep Kaur .
These are far from the only organisations stepping up - dozens of cafes , restaurants , community groups and businesses have acted .
Thirteen city firms feature on a new Help Out When School 's Out website , backed by Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford .

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Hundreds of poorer families across Birmingham are today receiving hot meals and packed lunches after a phenomenal community response to calls to feed kids this half term.
Brummies across the city have stepped up - some motivated by anger, some by a straightforward desire to 'do something'.
Inspired by football star Marcus Rashford, community activists and businesses reacted at speed and with love to try to plug a gap amid concerns that children entitled to free school meals might go hungry this half term.
They acted after MPs rejected a call for the scheme to be extended to see families through half term and the forthcoming Christmas holiday.
Campaigners argued the exceptional impact of the coronavirus pandemic required an exceptional response.
The failure of the Labour motion in Parliament inspired an instant backlash against those Conservative MPs who opposed it - but it also inspired urgent action.
Birmingham City Council announced on Friday afternoon that it was going to act and ensure every one of the families of the city's 61,000 kids entitled to Free School Meals would get extra funds to cover the week.
But there was also an instant response from communities - with Northfield residents and businesses among the first to rally, in part because the constituency's MP Gary Sambrook was among those who opposed the plan.
Local councillor Olly Armstrong said: "A group of us in Northfield, alongside Digbeth Dining Club, decided we needed to to step up and do what we can to provide hot food for struggling local families.
"Families and children will be referred to us through local schools, foodbanks, churches and community organisations. They will also be offered any further help they need through the wonderful Northfield Community Partnership and the Northfield Stakeholders Group.
Sarah, from Full of Chaat, part of Digbeth Dining Club, joined the group: "Watching so many MPs voting against Free School Meals for children in the UK was not only heartbreaking but shameful. It doesn’t matter where you stand politically, nobody should go to bed hungry.”
She added: “A group of us, all connected to Digbeth Dining Club in some way, decided that night that we were sick of complaining about it and decided to try and help in some way."
But with only a day before schools broke up, there was a need to move fast and join forces with others.
The result was Northfield Food Service - created, organised and ready to deliver food within 48 hours.
"What we are doing is a drop in the ocean but it’s overwhelming to see the passion people are showing for the cause. I feel so proud that people all over the country are pulling together and uniting on this.
"Momentum is building and we can’t wait to look at ways that we can help further going forward."
The organisation today tweeted a photo showing meals packed up and ready to be distributed, under Covid secure delivery arrangements.
Some 61,000 children receive Free School Meals across Birmingham.
Another to step up quickly was Midland Mencap, which supports families and children with learning disabilities.
They announced initially they were going to help any affected families in Weoley Castle by distributing packed lunches - but after a phenomenal response from residents and businesses giving donations, they are now offering the service across the south and south west of the city.
Chief Executive Dave Rogers said: "We have had such an overwhelming response from donations so we will be able to offer packed lunches to people living right across south and south west Birmingham."
Dave Pickard, also from Midland Mencap, said: "The phone has been ringing off the hook since we announced what we were doing. It shows how many people out there are in need."
Teacher Paul Jones, 42, said he had donated to the charity.
"I work in a deprived area of Birmingham...sometimes the only hot meal some children get is at school."
Meanwhile, an organisation that has a base in Ladywood announced it was providing free lunches to anyone who called by at lunchtime this week.
The Front Room, a new community enterprise that operates from a barge at South Loop Park, off Rotton Park Street B16 0AE, is putting on lunch from 11am to 2.30pm this week, providing lunch, fruit, hot chocolate, cake, books and activities.
"We’d love to see you...whether you pop in for one sarnie to take home or hang out with us all week," said coordinator Imandeep Kaur.
These are far from the only organisations stepping up - dozens of cafes, restaurants, community groups and businesses have acted.
Thirteen city firms feature on a new Help Out When School's Out website, backed by Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford.


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Piers Morgan announces big change to his Good Morning Britain role

Piers Morgan will return for the US election week on Good Morning Britain - appearing each and every weekday .
The ITV1 presenter typically hosts the show Monday to Wednesday , but has had his schedule increased over US Presidential Election week .
Piers is missing from the ITV1 daytime TV favourite , with co-host Susanna Reid also absent , this week .
Adil Ray and Charlotte Hawkins are presenting on Monday , with help from Sean Fletcher and Akex Beresford .
Kate Garraway and Ben Shephard are likely to be used by the ITV1 show this week , too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regarding his ongoing absence from GMB following the half-term break .
Piers said : `` We ’ ve got half term off , really exciting .
`` I ’ m going to move from the sofa downstairs to upstairs for my holiday . ''
He added : `` The good news is because I know you ’ ll be missing us , we ’ ll be back for the US election week .
`` We ’ ll be there all week , all five days '' .
The US election takes place in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump up against Joe Biden .
The 2020 United States presidential election is scheduled for Tuesday , November 3 , 2020 .
It will be the 59th quadrennial presidential election .
Biden is currently leading the majority of the polls .
Mr Biden , 78 , is an experienced politician best-known for serving as Barack Obama ’ s vice president for eight years .

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Piers Morgan will return for the US election week on Good Morning Britain - appearing each and every weekday.
The ITV1 presenter typically hosts the show Monday to Wednesday, but has had his schedule increased over US Presidential Election week.
Piers is missing from the ITV1 daytime TV favourite, with co-host Susanna Reid also absent, this week.
Adil Ray and Charlotte Hawkins are presenting on Monday, with help from Sean Fletcher and Akex Beresford.
Kate Garraway and Ben Shephard are likely to be used by the ITV1 show this week, too.
Piers has spoken out amid speculation regarding his ongoing absence from GMB following the half-term break.
Piers said: "We’ve got half term off, really exciting.
"I’m going to move from the sofa downstairs to upstairs for my holiday."
He added: "The good news is because I know you’ll be missing us, we’ll be back for the US election week.
"We’ll be there all week, all five days".
The US election takes place in the first week of November, with President Donald Trump up against Joe Biden.
The 2020 United States presidential election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, 2020.
It will be the 59th quadrennial presidential election.
Biden is currently leading the majority of the polls.
Mr Biden, 78, is an experienced politician best-known for serving as Barack Obama’s vice president for eight years.


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Masked moped riders ‘damage moving car in traffic

Lesley Powell witnessed the incident down Glascote Road , Tamworth on Thursday morning , October 22 , at around 11am .
She recalled : “ I was traveling towards town and it happened just past Aldi .
They were also heading towards town as well .
They were wearing hoodies with the hoods up and blue disposable face masks and no helmets .
“ They tried to take my wing mirror off but didn ’ t manage it , and then as they went past a Golf in front they scratched the car all down the one side and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car coming up the road .
“ It ’ s terrible .
Something needs to be done because idiots like this are giving bikers a bad name .
My husband used to be a biker and I know a few other bikers as well .
“ My husband had a serious accident .
He was wearing all the right gear including a helmet et cetera and was doing the right speed limit for the road .
`` He came off his bike and ended up fighting for his life and having his leg @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this ; it makes my blood boil , it really does.
” Staffordshire Police say : “ We were called at 3.15pm on Thursday afternoon ( October 22 ) to reports of two males riding mopeds damaging cars in traffic on Glascote Road in Tamworth .
“ It was reported that one of the riders tried to damage someone ’ s wing mirror .
They are described as wearing hoodies with the hoods up and face masks .
They were not wearing helmets .
“ Anyone with any information should message Staffordshire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number 427 of 22 October , call 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
”

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Police are investigating reports of masked moped riders scratching moving cars.
Lesley Powell witnessed the incident down Glascote Road, Tamworth on Thursday morning, October 22, at around 11am.
She recalled: “I was traveling towards town and it happened just past Aldi. They were also heading towards town as well. They were wearing hoodies with the hoods up and blue disposable face masks and no helmets.
(Image: Google)
“They tried to take my wing mirror off but didn’t manage it, and then as they went past a Golf in front they scratched the car all down the one side and it looked like they tried to damage another car coming up the road.
“It’s terrible. Something needs to be done because idiots like this are giving bikers a bad name. My husband used to be a biker and I know a few other bikers as well.
“My husband had a serious accident. He was wearing all the right gear including a helmet et cetera and was doing the right speed limit for the road.
"He came off his bike and ended up fighting for his life and having his leg amputated and then you have got idiots like this; it makes my blood boil, it really does.”
Staffordshire Police say: “We were called at 3.15pm on Thursday afternoon (October 22) to reports of two males riding mopeds damaging cars in traffic on Glascote Road in Tamworth.
“It was reported that one of the riders tried to damage someone’s wing mirror. They are described as wearing hoodies with the hoods up and face masks. They were not wearing helmets.
“Anyone with any information should message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter quoting incident number 427 of 22 October, call 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Canal gate ends up in water after yobs steal lock pins

A canal lock has been closed after mindless vandals stole pins which left the gate in the water and bosses needed a huge and expensive repair job .
The yobs struck at Atherstone Lock on the Coventry Canal last week .
The Canal & River Trust tweeted : “ Lock 2 Atherstone on the Coventry Canal is currently closed .
Vandals have stolen the pins from the lock collar which keep the gate in position .
`` The gate has ended up in the canal .
We ’ re working on plans to retrieve the gate and put it back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking likely we will need to bring a crane to site to lift the gate out of the canal and back into position .
This requires quite a bit of planning and working out logistics.
” The Canal & River Trust , who have since reported the incident to the police , confirmed to Birmingham Live : “ On October 20 we were made aware that there was a problem with Lock 2 at Atherstone on the Coventry Canal .
“ Once on site our operations team found that the lock had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gate collar in place and keep it in the correct position within the lock chamber had been removed .
`` This resulted in the lock gate becoming dislodged and subsequently ending up submerged in the canal.
” Rebecca Whitehouse , regional operations manager , fumed : “ It ’ s incredibly frustrating that someone has vandalised our lock .
“ We now have a huge and expensive job on our hands craning the lock gate out of the canal and putting it back into the correct position .
“ This lock gate is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been seriously injured if they tried to use the lock without it being properly secured .
“ We ’ ve had to close this stretch of canal whilst we deal with the problem and we ’ re speaking to any boaters who have become stuck because of the closure .
”

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A canal lock has been closed after mindless vandals stole pins which left the gate in the water and bosses needed a huge and expensive repair job.
The yobs struck at Atherstone Lock on the Coventry Canal last week.
The Canal & River Trust tweeted: “Lock 2 Atherstone on the Coventry Canal is currently closed. Vandals have stolen the pins from the lock collar which keep the gate in position.
"The gate has ended up in the canal. We’re working on plans to retrieve the gate and put it back into position.
(Image: Canal & River Trust)
“It’s looking likely we will need to bring a crane to site to lift the gate out of the canal and back into position. This requires quite a bit of planning and working out logistics.”
The Canal & River Trust, who have since reported the incident to the police, confirmed to Birmingham Live: “On October 20 we were made aware that there was a problem with Lock 2 at Atherstone on the Coventry Canal.
“Once on site our operations team found that the lock had been vandalised. Pins that hold the lock gate collar in place and keep it in the correct position within the lock chamber had been removed.
"This resulted in the lock gate becoming dislodged and subsequently ending up submerged in the canal.”
Rebecca Whitehouse, regional operations manager, fumed: “It’s incredibly frustrating that someone has vandalised our lock.
“We now have a huge and expensive job on our hands craning the lock gate out of the canal and putting it back into the correct position.
“This lock gate is extremely heavy, and someone could have been seriously injured if they tried to use the lock without it being properly secured.
“We’ve had to close this stretch of canal whilst we deal with the problem and we’re speaking to any boaters who have become stuck because of the closure.”


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Dad who went shopping in Tesco wearing just his underwear speaks out on GMB

A man who went to Tesco in just his pants has appeared on Good Morning Britain today .
Chris Noden stripped off in protest and headed to his local branch of Britain 's biggest grocer over the weekend .
Mr Noden was protesting Wales ' ban on the sale of `` non-essential '' items .
He appeared via video link to discuss his antics on the ITV1 daytime TV programme on Monday .
From Newport , he told Charlotte Hawkins : `` I did n't feel anything at all - I just wanted to prove my point . ''
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I wanted to prove my point - only in Wales can you go shopping without your clothes on .
`` And there 's nothing they can do about it . ''
Christopher Noden , from Newport , was among the shoppers who have been left baffled by the new rules , Wales Online reports .
Christopher said he decided to visit Tesco in Spytty Retail Park wearing no clothes apart from his underpants on Saturday to protest against the measures .
First Minister Mark Drakeford said the measure will help create an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses which have been forced to close .
Christopher said he did not expect to be allowed into the supermarket , and left after he was asked to do so by security .
`` Our intention was n't to go and to push past them or anything silly , '' he said .
`` It was just to let people know that it is possible to get a reaction from them and to get the point across that clothes are essential there . ''

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A man who went to Tesco in just his pants has appeared on Good Morning Britain today.
Chris Noden stripped off in protest and headed to his local branch of Britain's biggest grocer over the weekend.
Mr Noden was protesting Wales' ban on the sale of "non-essential" items.
He appeared via video link to discuss his antics on the ITV1 daytime TV programme on Monday.
From Newport, he told Charlotte Hawkins: "I didn't feel anything at all - I just wanted to prove my point."
Speaking to Adil Ray, he added: "I wanted to prove my point - only in Wales can you go shopping without your clothes on.
"And there's nothing they can do about it."
Christopher Noden, from Newport, was among the shoppers who have been left baffled by the new rules, Wales Online reports.
Christopher said he decided to visit Tesco in Spytty Retail Park wearing no clothes apart from his underpants on Saturday to protest against the measures.
First Minister Mark Drakeford said the measure will help create an "equal playing field" for other businesses which have been forced to close.
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Christopher said he did not expect to be allowed into the supermarket, and left after he was asked to do so by security.
"Our intention wasn't to go and to push past them or anything silly," he said.
"It was just to let people know that it is possible to get a reaction from them and to get the point across that clothes are essential there."


birminghammail--2020-10-26--M6 crash involving lorry and two cars causes long delays

Motorway drivers faced major delays this morning after a crash involving two cars and a lorry .
Traffic came to a standstill on the Black Country stretch of the M6 just after 7.30am today ( October 26 ) .
Commuters faced delays of around 40 minutes after the collision on the southbound carriageway between junction 9 and junction 8 .
One lane was closed following the crash and traffic jams snaked for miles all the way back to the M54 interchange at junction 10A .
At 9am , the 40-minute delay was still in place .
An Inrix traffic update @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long delays and queueing traffic due to accident , two cars and a lorry involved on M6 Southbound from J9 A461 Wood Green Road ( Wednesbury ) to J8 M5 .
`` Congestion to J10A ( M54 interchange ) .
Travel time is around 40 minutes .
`` Lane two re-open however lane one ( of four ) remains closed .
Traffic was very briefly held and may need to be held intermittently whilst emergency services deal with the scene . ''
West Midlands Ambulance Service and West Midland Fire Service have confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Motorway drivers faced major delays this morning after a crash involving two cars and a lorry.
Traffic came to a standstill on the Black Country stretch of the M6 just after 7.30am today (October 26).
Commuters faced delays of around 40 minutes after the collision on the southbound carriageway between junction 9 and junction 8.
One lane was closed following the crash and traffic jams snaked for miles all the way back to the M54 interchange at junction 10A.
At 9am, the 40-minute delay was still in place.
An Inrix traffic update read: "One lane closed, long delays and queueing traffic due to accident, two cars and a lorry involved on M6 Southbound from J9 A461 Wood Green Road (Wednesbury) to J8 M5.
"Congestion to J10A (M54 interchange). Travel time is around 40 minutes.
"Lane two re-open however lane one (of four) remains closed. Traffic was very briefly held and may need to be held intermittently whilst emergency services deal with the scene."
West Midlands Ambulance Service and West Midland Fire Service have confirmed they were not called to the scene.


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Police appeal after gang of teens 'attack bus driver for no reason'

Police have launched an appeal after a bus driver was reportedly attacked by a group of teenagers in Walsall .
A large group of 14 to 16 year olds unleashed a violent attack on the victim and a bus , in the Coalpool estate area of the borough .
West Midlands Police said the group were not travelling on the bus last night ( October 25 ) , where the incident took place and police believe it was a random assault .
West Midlands Police has said the incident will have a 'lasting effect ' on the bus driver .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents of the offenders to come forward to help with the investigation .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police Force Response said : `` E Unit Walsall have dealt with a bus driver being attacked by teenagers last night ( October 25 ) in the Coalpool estate .
The Black Country Bugle Annual 2021 is going on sale from October 26 , right up until March 2021 .
It provides a colourful and memorable look back at all aspects of Black Country life , from much-loved characters to much-missed iconic buildings , from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community to the firms and workplaces that provided jobs for thousands .
It ’ s all here in compelling stories and features and fascinating , rare photographs .
`` The teenagers were n't passengers on the bus , they just started to attack the driver and bus for no reason !
This attack will have a lasting effect on the driver .
`` Parents of teenagers across the Coalpool estate , can you help us identify who was involved ?
It was a large group of boys and girls , 14-16yrs old .
@ @ @

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Police have launched an appeal after a bus driver was reportedly attacked by a group of teenagers in Walsall.
A large group of 14 to 16 year olds unleashed a violent attack on the victim and a bus, in the Coalpool estate area of the borough.
West Midlands Police said the group were not travelling on the bus last night (October 25), where the incident took place and police believe it was a random assault.
West Midlands Police has said the incident will have a 'lasting effect' on the bus driver.
An appeal has been launched for the parents of the offenders to come forward to help with the investigation.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police Force Response said: "E Unit Walsall have dealt with a bus driver being attacked by teenagers last night (October 25) in the Coalpool estate.
Black Country Bugle Annual 2021 The Black Country Bugle Annual 2021 is going on sale from October 26, right up until March 2021. It provides a colourful and memorable look back at all aspects of Black Country life, from much-loved characters to much-missed iconic buildings, from the sports and pastimes that united the community to the firms and workplaces that provided jobs for thousands. It’s all here in compelling stories and features and fascinating, rare photographs. The Black Country Bugle Annual 2021 Get your copy here.
"The teenagers weren't passengers on the bus, they just started to attack the driver and bus for no reason! This attack will have a lasting effect on the driver.
"Parents of teenagers across the Coalpool estate, can you help us identify who was involved? It was a large group of boys and girls, 14-16yrs old. Log 4044-25/10/20"


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Marcus Rashford bluntly hits back at Matt Hancock over Boris Johnson claims

Footballer Marcus Rashford has denied claims from the Health Secretary that he has been in contact with Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
After Matt Hancock told BBC Breakfast `` There has been communication between the two '' , Rashford tweeted : `` Hmm , unless he 's referring to the call we had following the u-turn in June ?
... '' Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he understood Prime Minister Boris Johnson had responded to a letter from free school meals campaigner Marcus Rashford .
He told BBC Breakfast : `` There has been communication between the two , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Earlier , Hancock told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` We have put that £63 million into councils ...
There 's constantly work ongoing with councils , especially given that their finances have been hard hit by the pandemic , to ensure that they can provide the services that they need to . ''
He added : `` The extra money that has gone into councils , as I say , is for this - including for this purpose - so central government , councils and private companies are all playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal that we all share , which is that no child should go hungry . ''
Questioned whether he is closing the door on doing more , the Health Secretary said : `` Obviously , it 's not my area of policy to speak about ... what I 'm saying is that our attitude and our purpose it to ensure that everybody gets the support they need and no child , of course , no child should go hungry , nobody could possibly want that .
The question is how best to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Universal Credit increase would be kept , he said : `` Well , that 's a question for the future and for the Spending Review . ''

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Footballer Marcus Rashford has denied claims from the Health Secretary that he has been in contact with Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
After Matt Hancock told BBC Breakfast "There has been communication between the two", Rashford tweeted: "Hmm, unless he's referring to the call we had following the u-turn in June?..."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he understood Prime Minister Boris Johnson had responded to a letter from free school meals campaigner Marcus Rashford.
He told BBC Breakfast: "There has been communication between the two, as far as I understand it."
Earlier, Hancock told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "We have put that £63 million into councils ... There's constantly work ongoing with councils, especially given that their finances have been hard hit by the pandemic, to ensure that they can provide the services that they need to."
He added: "The extra money that has gone into councils, as I say, is for this - including for this purpose - so central government, councils and private companies are all playing a role in trying to support the goal that we all share, which is that no child should go hungry."
Questioned whether he is closing the door on doing more, the Health Secretary said: "Obviously, it's not my area of policy to speak about ... what I'm saying is that our attitude and our purpose it to ensure that everybody gets the support they need and no child, of course, no child should go hungry, nobody could possibly want that. The question is how best to do it."
Asked if the £20-a-week Universal Credit increase would be kept, he said: "Well, that's a question for the future and for the Spending Review."


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Sandwell Council will NOT fund free school meals this half-term

Sandwell Council has revealed it has no plans to provide free meals for children this half-term .
In place of a voucher scheme , the local authority has pledged to help cash-strapped families find support .
In Sandwell , the half-term runs from October 26 , up until October 30 .
Deputy Council Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said : “ The government has decided it will not fund school meals over the October half-term break .
“ However , the council will assist any families struggling to feed their children to find suitable support .
“ In the light of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families in most need we are looking at future holidays to see what more will be needed to support our families.
” “ If any family in Sandwell is need of support over half-term , please call our emergency helpline 0121 569 2266.
” It comes after MPs rejected a free kids meals campaign started by England international and Manchester United player Marcus Rashford .
A vote on the measures was backed by Labour and made its way to Parliament last week , but it was defeated by 322 votes to 261 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has launched a £250,000 scheme to provide vouchers for children who would normally receive a free school meal .
Around 16,000 students will be offered financial support this half-term .
Schools will distribute vouchers and the council ’ s emergency food distribution hub will make a comeback .
It will supply food parcels directly to households .
Text messages have been sent out to the parents/guardians of children who receive free school meals advising them how they can receive support .
Councillor Ian Brookfield , leader of City of Wolverhampton Council , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this country or in our city .
“ In Wolves , we ‘ look after our own ’ .
The pandemic has hit struggling city families hard and we will not allow the 16,000 children who rely on free school meals to go without food this half-term .
“ Our schools have been absolutely fantastic in their response to this pandemic and we are working closely with them to deliver this scheme .
They have been a beacon of light , in dark times .
“ This underlines our commitment to giving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible start in life .
That begins with getting the basics right , a good stable home and food on the table .
“ Finally , I want to commend the dignified campaign of the footballer Marcus Rashford for bringing the scandal of food poverty to a wider audience .
”

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Sandwell Council has revealed it has no plans to provide free meals for children this half-term.
In place of a voucher scheme, the local authority has pledged to help cash-strapped families find support.
In Sandwell, the half-term runs from October 26, up until October 30.
Deputy Council Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said: “The government has decided it will not fund school meals over the October half-term break.
“However, the council will assist any families struggling to feed their children to find suitable support.
“In the light of the government’s failure to support families in most need we are looking at future holidays to see what more will be needed to support our families.”
“If any family in Sandwell is need of support over half-term, please call our emergency helpline 0121 569 2266.”
It comes after MPs rejected a free kids meals campaign started by England international and Manchester United player Marcus Rashford.
(Image: @Lisa_McNally1)
A vote on the measures was backed by Labour and made its way to Parliament last week, but it was defeated by 322 votes to 261.
In the neighbouring borough, Wolverhampton Council has launched a £250,000 scheme to provide vouchers for children who would normally receive a free school meal.
Around 16,000 students will be offered financial support this half-term.
Schools will distribute vouchers and the council’s emergency food distribution hub will make a comeback. It will supply food parcels directly to households.
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Text messages have been sent out to the parents/guardians of children who receive free school meals advising them how they can receive support.
Councillor Ian Brookfield, leader of City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “No child should go hungry in this country or in our city.
“In Wolves, we ‘look after our own’. The pandemic has hit struggling city families hard and we will not allow the 16,000 children who rely on free school meals to go without food this half-term.
“Our schools have been absolutely fantastic in their response to this pandemic and we are working closely with them to deliver this scheme. They have been a beacon of light, in dark times.
“This underlines our commitment to giving our children and young people the best possible start in life. That begins with getting the basics right, a good stable home and food on the table.
“Finally, I want to commend the dignified campaign of the footballer Marcus Rashford for bringing the scandal of food poverty to a wider audience.”


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Coronavirus vaccine will be rolled out by next summer, says Matt Hancock

The likely rollout of a coronavirus vaccine will not take place this year , according to the Health Secretary .
Matt Hancock appeared on BBC radio today where he discussed the potential of a Covid-19 vaccine .
He spoke out amid reports hospitals would get the first deliveries of vaccine candidates as early as NEXT week .
Mr Hancock replied : `` Well , we are not there yet .
The vaccine programme is progressing well .
`` The leading candidates are , we are in very close contact with those .
`` I would on my central expectation for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the first half of next year . ''
The Mail on Sunday said it had seen a staff memo sent earlier this month by Glen Burley , chief executive of George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust in Warwickshire , explaining that health service organisations had been told `` to be prepared to start a Covid-19 staff vaccine programme in early December '' .
The newspaper reported the memo added : `` The latest intelligence states a coronavirus vaccine should be available this year with NHS staff prioritised prior to Christmas . ''
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top infectious disease specialist , said he was concerned about anti-vaccine beliefs .
Appearing on the BBC 's Andrew Marr show , he was asked how important it was politicians set an example and `` follow the science '' .
Dr Fauci said : `` It 's very important '' , adding : `` People look at what their leaders say and do , and you can positively or negatively influence behaviour .
`` One of the things I 'm concerned about in the United States is that part of the anti science @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It would really be a shame if we have a safe and effective vaccine , but a substantial proportion of the people do not want to take the vaccine because they do n't trust authority .
`` That would really be unfortunate if that 's the case . ''

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The likely rollout of a coronavirus vaccine will not take place this year, according to the Health Secretary.
Matt Hancock appeared on BBC radio today where he discussed the potential of a Covid-19 vaccine.
He spoke out amid reports hospitals would get the first deliveries of vaccine candidates as early as NEXT week.
Mr Hancock replied: "Well, we are not there yet. The vaccine programme is progressing well.
"The leading candidates are, we are in very close contact with those.
"I would on my central expectation for the bulk of the rollout to be in the first half of next year."
(Image: AP)
The Mail on Sunday said it had seen a staff memo sent earlier this month by Glen Burley, chief executive of George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust in Warwickshire, explaining that health service organisations had been told "to be prepared to start a Covid-19 staff vaccine programme in early December".
The newspaper reported the memo added: "The latest intelligence states a coronavirus vaccine should be available this year with NHS staff prioritised prior to Christmas."
And Dr Anthony Fauci, the US's top infectious disease specialist, said he was concerned about anti-vaccine beliefs.
Appearing on the BBC's Andrew Marr show, he was asked how important it was politicians set an example and "follow the science".
Dr Fauci said: "It's very important", adding: "People look at what their leaders say and do, and you can positively or negatively influence behaviour.
"One of the things I'm concerned about in the United States is that part of the anti science translates maybe into anti vaccine.
"It would really be a shame if we have a safe and effective vaccine, but a substantial proportion of the people do not want to take the vaccine because they don't trust authority.
"That would really be unfortunate if that's the case."


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Bilic opens up on Ahmed Hegazi sale amid West Brom job speculation

Slaven Bilic has spoken honestly of how disappointed he is to have lost the services of defender Ahmed Hegazi as West Brom fought back from a goal down to clinch a valuable point at Brighton .
Karlan Grant ’ s late equaliser , his first for the club , cancelled out a Jake Livermore own goal in the first half , but Hegazi ’ s departure to Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad late on Sunday evening remained a hot topic following the draw at the AMEX Stadium .
Bilic has reasoned that he was made assurances that Egyptian Hegazi - who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last Monday - would not be leaving the club .
He explained that last Thursday , when addressing such speculation .
Yet Albion were made an offer to part with their top earner , who made just 15 starts under Bilic , and agreed to his sale ahead of the Seagulls clash - a match that , as late as this weekend , Bilic was planning on utilising the centre half in .
“ It definitely wasn ’ t my decision and it wasn ’ t a football decision , ” Bilic explained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are a team that needs all our good players , he is a player that has knowhow in the Premier League .
“ He has vast experience , he ’ s an international player , he is a great professional and he played last week against Burnley and the whole week he was training with us when we were doing shape .
“ Even on Saturday he was there and I had assurances he was going to stay and that makes me very disappointed he left .
“ I know there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are newcomers in the league and we did great to keep our players from last season who were on loan but we were nowhere near as active as some other teams .
“ Then at least you have to keep your players and Ahmed Hegazi was one of them and he wanted to play , he played on Saturday when we were doing tactics and shape he was in the first XI and we are not in a position to lose those kind of players , however well Semi [ Ajayi ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
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Google Play Store and App Store Bilic was also asked about his own future , after reports in the national press on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his own future in the wake of Hegazi ’ s Hawthorns exit .
“ I ’ m concentrating on my team , ” Bilic responded .
“ They showed me that today .
They were very lively .
It meant a lot for the guys and for me .
We ’ re here to work .
“ I love my team .
I love them , but we need players .
We ’ re a football team , not a corporation .
”

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Slaven Bilic has spoken honestly of how disappointed he is to have lost the services of defender Ahmed Hegazi as West Brom fought back from a goal down to clinch a valuable point at Brighton.
Karlan Grant’s late equaliser, his first for the club, cancelled out a Jake Livermore own goal in the first half, but Hegazi’s departure to Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad late on Sunday evening remained a hot topic following the draw at the AMEX Stadium.
Bilic has reasoned that he was made assurances that Egyptian Hegazi - who featured in the 0-0 draw with Burnley last Monday - would not be leaving the club. He explained that last Thursday, when addressing such speculation.
Yet Albion were made an offer to part with their top earner, who made just 15 starts under Bilic, and agreed to his sale ahead of the Seagulls clash - a match that, as late as this weekend, Bilic was planning on utilising the centre half in.
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“It definitely wasn’t my decision and it wasn’t a football decision,” Bilic explained.
“I’m very disappointed. We are a team that needs all our good players, he is a player that has knowhow in the Premier League.
“He has vast experience, he’s an international player, he is a great professional and he played last week against Burnley and the whole week he was training with us when we were doing shape.
“Even on Saturday he was there and I had assurances he was going to stay and that makes me very disappointed he left.
“I know there are economic reasons and football reasons. We are newcomers in the league and we did great to keep our players from last season who were on loan but we were nowhere near as active as some other teams.
“Then at least you have to keep your players and Ahmed Hegazi was one of them and he wanted to play, he played on Saturday when we were doing tactics and shape he was in the first XI and we are not in a position to lose those kind of players, however well Semi [Ajayi] played.”
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just 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 by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Bilic was also asked about his own future, after reports in the national press on Monday suggested that the Croat was considering his own future in the wake of Hegazi’s Hawthorns exit.
“I’m concentrating on my team,” Bilic responded. “They showed me that today. They were very lively. It meant a lot for the guys and for me. We’re here to work.
“I love my team. I love them, but we need players. We’re a football team, not a corporation.”


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Birmingham City's two goal machines at it again in U23s' Swansea win

Birmingham City will have travelled back from south Wales delighted at both the 3-0 victory and their first clean sheet of the season .
After shipping five goals in their last outing – and 11 in their previous three matches – this evening ’ s ‘ nil ’ will be of considerable satisfaction .
However , one other intriguing subtext is the amount of goals being scored by two of Steve Spooner ’ s men .
Miguel Fernandez put the visitors ahead with a sumptuous ninth minute free kick that was a mirror image of the one Newcastle ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League .
That was the Spaniard ’ s third goal in four starts in this season ’ s Professional Development League campaign – and not even the most spectacular .
That honour goes to the vicious inswinger from the touchline at Sheffield Wednesday a few weeks ago ( footage courtesy of bcfc.com ) .
Blues ’ lead was doubled by Josh Andrews , who side-footed Fernandez ’ s 20th minute cross for his fifth of the season – and fifth in two games .
Indeed the 19-year-old had the bittersweet experience of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Ipswich earlier this month .
Jack Concannon settled the victory after just 25 minutes , which left Spooner free to concentrate on events at the other end .
“ We spoke about a clean sheet at half-time and reminded them about building from a strong base , ” the development coach told bcfc.com .
“ The lads listened and applied it in the second period .
“ From front to back we defended properly and looked very dangerous when we broke .
Unfortunately we couldn ’ t add to the goal tally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the performance .
”

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Birmingham City will have travelled back from south Wales delighted at both the 3-0 victory and their first clean sheet of the season.
After shipping five goals in their last outing – and 11 in their previous three matches – this evening’s ‘nil’ will be of considerable satisfaction.
However, one other intriguing subtext is the amount of goals being scored by two of Steve Spooner’s men.
Miguel Fernandez put the visitors ahead with a sumptuous ninth minute free kick that was a mirror image of the one Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy scored against Wolves in the Premier League.
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That was the Spaniard’s third goal in four starts in this season’s Professional Development League campaign – and not even the most spectacular.
That honour goes to the vicious inswinger from the touchline at Sheffield Wednesday a few weeks ago (footage courtesy of bcfc.com).
Blues ’ lead was doubled by Josh Andrews, who side-footed Fernandez’s 20th minute cross for his fifth of the season – and fifth in two games.
Indeed the 19-year-old had the bittersweet experience of scoring all four in the 5-4 loss to Ipswich earlier this month.
Jack Concannon settled the victory after just 25 minutes, which left Spooner free to concentrate on events at the other end.
“We spoke about a clean sheet at half-time and reminded them about building from a strong base,” the development coach told bcfc.com.
“The lads listened and applied it in the second period.
“From front to back we defended properly and looked very dangerous when we broke. Unfortunately we couldn’t add to the goal tally but I’m really pleased with the performance.”


birminghammail--2020-10-26--Albion's master and apprentice and what Bilic would've seen

Branislav Ivanovic and Semi Ajayi - West Bromwich Albion ’ s very own centre half master and the apprentice by his side .
While Ajayi is far from an apprentice - this was his 50th appearance for Albion since arriving for a bargain fee from then relegated Rotherham United in the summer of 2019 - he ’ s still a novice when it comes to playing week in , week out at this level .
It ’ s been a tough baptism early doors ; Ajayi featured in the games against Leicester , Everton , Chelsea and Southampton where Albion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former Arsenal trainee ’ s exposure at this level to that of Ivanovic , who has won pretty much everything there is to win as an elite footballer based in England .
He won league titles , domestic cups and silverware on the continent during his decorated stay with Chelsea , and another crack at the top flight in this country - albeit at the other end of the table - and the opportunity to work with Slaven Bilic who was desperate to add such experience to his ranks proved too good a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together in a back four for the first time down at Brighton on Monday night , as Albion earned themselves a late point .
It ’ s quite simple .
The change in the back-line was enforced last minute after the sale of Ahmed Hegazi on Sunday night .
The Egyptian left for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia , something that Bilic wasn ’ t particularly pleased about having prepared in the week to include Hegazi in his side at the AMEX Stadium .
After a shut-out against Burnley at The Hawthorns , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for large periods at least - kept quiet , this was a different sort of test .
Neal Maupay , Adam Lallana and Leandro Trossard are poles apart from Wood and Barnes , where aerial dominance was key to thwart the Clarets ’ primary route of attack .
On the floor , at least , Ajayi ’ s agility and athleticism married with Ivanovic ’ s commanding presence and reading of the game appeared to be a suitable combination .
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Google Play Store and App Store How the pair got on After a positive opening period from Albion , their hosts began to assume control of proceedings .
Immediately , the Baggies back-line came under siege , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Solly March and Adam Lallana .
In Neal Maupay , Brighton possess a lively forward who keeps centre halves on their toes and is often on the same wavelength as the aforementioned playmakers .
He had the ball in the net having found his way in between the back pair , but the offside flag arrived to cancel it out .
Maupay was then denied by the in-form Sam Johnstone when well placed , with Albion carved open again .
It ’ s the smaller things when you have a newfound partnership , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part he played in the goal Albion did concede , is 11 years Ajayi ’ s senior and so having the Serb , a reassuring figure , to his right ought to have been beneficial .
In the second period , the pair looked more comfortable - especially after Albion began to dominate in the opposing half .
Ajayi snuffed out the threat of Lamptey when he used his body well on one occasion , and Ivanovic looked comfortable dealing with anything aerial as the Seagulls looked to break on the away side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is likely to be Bilic ’ s preferred pairing going forwards .
They ’ ll face another quite different challenge next week , in the form of Aleksandar Mitrovic who Ajayi - and Kyle Bartley - totally nullified in the same fixture last year .
Indeed that would appear to be the type of forward who Ivanovic would prefer to face too , rather than the tricky and nippy Maupay .
Bartley is the next cab off the rank , with Cedric Kipre out of contention and likely to be available for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ O ’ Shea is still proving to be Bilic ’ s utility man back there .
Ultimately , though , despite a few natural hiccups on their first outing together , there were signs of promise ahead of a crucial match at Fulham on Monday .

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Branislav Ivanovic and Semi Ajayi - West Bromwich Albion’s very own centre half master and the apprentice by his side.
While Ajayi is far from an apprentice - this was his 50th appearance for Albion since arriving for a bargain fee from then relegated Rotherham United in the summer of 2019 - he’s still a novice when it comes to playing week in, week out at this level.
It’s been a tough baptism early doors; Ajayi featured in the games against Leicester, Everton, Chelsea and Southampton where Albion conceded for fun.
Yet compare the former Arsenal trainee’s exposure at this level to that of Ivanovic, who has won pretty much everything there is to win as an elite footballer based in England.
He won league titles, domestic cups and silverware on the continent during his decorated stay with Chelsea, and another crack at the top flight in this country - albeit at the other end of the table - and the opportunity to work with Slaven Bilic who was desperate to add such experience to his ranks proved too good a chance to reject.
The pair played together in a back four for the first time down at Brighton on Monday night, as Albion earned themselves a late point.
Why the change?
It’s quite simple. The change in the back-line was enforced last minute after the sale of Ahmed Hegazi on Sunday night. The Egyptian left for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, something that Bilic wasn’t particularly pleased about having prepared in the week to include Hegazi in his side at the AMEX Stadium.
After a shut-out against Burnley at The Hawthorns, where Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood were - for large periods at least - kept quiet, this was a different sort of test.
Neal Maupay, Adam Lallana and Leandro Trossard are poles apart from Wood and Barnes, where aerial dominance was key to thwart the Clarets’ primary route of attack.
On the floor, at least, Ajayi’s agility and athleticism married with Ivanovic’s commanding presence and reading of the game appeared to be a suitable combination.
How the pair got on
After a positive opening period from Albion, their hosts began to assume control of proceedings. Immediately, the Baggies back-line came under siege, through talented footballers like Leandro Trossard, Solly March and Adam Lallana.
In Neal Maupay, Brighton possess a lively forward who keeps centre halves on their toes and is often on the same wavelength as the aforementioned playmakers.
He had the ball in the net having found his way in between the back pair, but the offside flag arrived to cancel it out. Maupay was then denied by the in-form Sam Johnstone when well placed, with Albion carved open again.
It’s the smaller things when you have a newfound partnership, though. Ivanovic, unfortunate with the part he played in the goal Albion did concede, is 11 years Ajayi’s senior and so having the Serb, a reassuring figure, to his right ought to have been beneficial.
In the second period, the pair looked more comfortable - especially after Albion began to dominate and play most of their football in the opposing half. Ajayi snuffed out the threat of Lamptey when he used his body well on one occasion, and Ivanovic looked comfortable dealing with anything aerial as the Seagulls looked to break on the away side.
(Image: PA)
Going forwards
In the absence of Hegazi, this is likely to be Bilic’s preferred pairing going forwards. They’ll face another quite different challenge next week, in the form of Aleksandar Mitrovic who Ajayi - and Kyle Bartley - totally nullified in the same fixture last year.
Indeed that would appear to be the type of forward who Ivanovic would prefer to face too, rather than the tricky and nippy Maupay.
Bartley is the next cab off the rank, with Cedric Kipre out of contention and likely to be available for a loan move in January. Dara O’Shea is still proving to be Bilic’s utility man back there.
Ultimately, though, despite a few natural hiccups on their first outing together, there were signs of promise ahead of a crucial match at Fulham on Monday.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just 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 by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Bilic's summary
We asked Bilic after the game of his opinion on how the duo got on in their first outing together.
He accepted Maupay's quality and the problems he caused in the first half, but on the whole the Croat was largely pleased with what he saw.
“They were really good. Barna was also really instrumental for Filip. I told him to lead Krovinovic, to where he had to be, left to right.
“It’s a good partnership. They played really well. They were a little bit unlucky with the goal - make no mistake, they played against a striker who has got pace and who can run behind and who can come into the game and link.
“They did it exceptionally well.”


birminghammail--2020-10-26--West Brom fans go nuts after 'clinical' Grant comes to the rescue

West Bromwich Albion came from behind to claim a point at Brighton & Hove Albion this evening .
Slaven Bilic ’ s men overcame the set back of a Jake Livermore own goal to draw 1-1 after Karlan Grant hammered the equaliser .
The striker had been something of a spectator until Callum Robinson found him with a right wing cross with which the £15million man made his first repayment , Baggies fans were one part relieved , one part impressed .
@ sempertefallant : So much better in that second half after a very poor first 45 .
Definitely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won it .
Fair play to Grant , not involved for most of the game but when the chance came .
@ A_Kemo26 : Slavs subs last season were for impact , now its to rectify his mistakes from the start .
Second half , with players in best positions we bossed it , makes the first 45 even more frustrating .
Pereira simply has to play in the 10 , he makes us tick .
Grants first goal a huge bonus @ Hannanar : Importantly , Grant is off the mark ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Much improved when subs came on .
Grant isolated .
Grant looks superb when he gets on the ball .
Needs a partner , the lone striker just not working for me .
David Birch : We need to bottle that second half and take it where ever go .
PACE PACE PACE .
Everytime we play with it we do well .
We have got to stop playing how other teams want us to play .
I think Robbo might be starting ... ... well done for that second half .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .. @ PeterBone1 : Decent point in the end , # wba , but the team need to learn how to play for 90 minutes .
Awful first half , much improved after .
Grant took his goal well .
But we really should have won that .
Need much more belief , guile , speed of thought .
Curate ’ s egg .
@ harrisonrayw : Second half was great , pereira as a number 10 is a must , Grant is what you call a striker , never had a sniff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should you sign up ?
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Google Play Store and App Store @ brickflipperr : Grant will keep us up .
Clinical Mitchell Hanson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thanks to Karlen grant first goal for us and we need take chances this level and you cant afford miss chance at this level Dan Caines : That 2nd half performance is the blueprint .
Gallagher looks like a real talent and Grant took his goal very well .
Let ’ s hope Slaven is still with us this time next week !
Dean Evans : Well that was a game of 2 halves , utter useless 1st half,2nd half total different team , grant great finish why can ’ t we start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Shows we can do it 2nd half , they couldnt get near Pereira .
Ivanovic made massive difference and grant has started well .
The wins will come soon !

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West Bromwich Albion came from behind to claim a point at Brighton & Hove Albion this evening.
Slaven Bilic’s men overcame the set back of a Jake Livermore own goal to draw 1-1 after Karlan Grant hammered the equaliser.
The striker had been something of a spectator until Callum Robinson found him with a right wing cross with which the £15million man made his first repayment,
Baggies fans were one part relieved, one part impressed.
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@sempertefallant: So much better in that second half after a very poor first 45. Definitely deserved the point and might even have won it. Fair play to Grant, not involved for most of the game but when the chance came.
@A_Kemo26: Slavs subs last season were for impact, now its to rectify his mistakes from the start. Second half, with players in best positions we bossed it, makes the first 45 even more frustrating. Pereira simply has to play in the 10, he makes us tick. Grants first goal a huge bonus
@MickyMellon1: Good performance I thought especially 2nd half . Great goal Grant
@Hannanar: Importantly, Grant is off the mark... first of many hopefully
@Davepricescaff: Much improved when subs came on. Grant isolated. Grant looks superb when he gets on the ball. Needs a partner, the lone striker just not working for me.
David Birch: We need to bottle that second half and take it where ever go. PACE PACE PACE. Everytime we play with it we do well. We have got to stop playing how other teams want us to play. I think Robbo might be starting...... well done for that second half. If we play like that every game.....
@PeterBone1: Decent point in the end, #wba, but the team need to learn how to play for 90 minutes. Awful first half, much improved after. Grant took his goal well. But we really should have won that. Need much more belief, guile, speed of thought. Curate’s egg.
@harrisonrayw: Second half was great , pereira as a number 10 is a must, Grant is what you call a striker , never had a sniff all game and saved us there
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just 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 by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
@brickflipperr: Grant will keep us up. Clinical
Mitchell Hanson: Much better in second half and thanks to Karlen grant first goal for us and we need take chances this level and you cant afford miss chance at this level
Dan Caines: That 2nd half performance is the blueprint. Gallagher looks like a real talent and Grant took his goal very well. Let’s hope Slaven is still with us this time next week!
Dean Evans: Well that was a game of 2 halves,utter useless 1st half,2nd half total different team,grant great finish why can’t we start games like that??
Dan Smith: Shows we can do it 2nd half, they couldnt get near Pereira. Ivanovic made massive difference and grant has started well. The wins will come soon!


birminghammail--2020-10-26--'Classy' - West Brom player ratings as Grant fires in first goal

Karlan Grant is off the mark .
The West Brom striker , the summer signing on which so much is depended on , rifled home a late equaliser in Albion ’ s 1-1 draw at Brighton in a game where , following a double substitution after the hour , the Baggies turned it on .
The first half was dreadful and required a reply - and Bilic got it .
Grant has his first goal , a superbly taken one at that and Albion have added another point to their tally which looked unlikely at the break .
They began @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from distance which was easily held by Mat Ryan and there were promising moves forwards , but once Brighton assumed control Albion were left hanging on to parity for most of the first half .
Neal Maupay had the ball in the net but was flagged for offside .
Then , when onside and played in by Adam Lallana , he was superbly denied by Sam Johnstone - Albion ’ s only real shining light in 45 miserable minutes .
The goal itself , that ensured the Seagulls went in ahead at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenges were put to Dan Burn , but he flooded forward and fed the wings .
Maupay ’ s shot was blocked by Semi Ajayi , but the rebound fell to the impressive Tariq Lamptey who squared it across goal .
As Branislav Ivanovic attempted to clear it , he was met by his captain Livermore , who only ricocheted the ball into the net .
Even at the beginning of the second period , Brighton were the better side , comfortable in possession and working out how best to source their second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called for Kyle Edwards and Callum Robinson and the status quo changed .
Robinson slipped in Grant in the last ten minutes , and he did the rest to spark delirium on the visiting bench .
Here is how we rated the Albion players on the whistle .
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Google Play Store and App Store Kicking was below par in the opening stages when one sailed straight over Townsend ’ s head , but when faced with Brighton attackers Johnstone proved to be the pick of Albion ’ s players in the first half - again .
Wonderful save denied Maupay with his legs and he kept out Trossard on a couple of occasions , too .
Two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bar .
The movement of March and Trossard proved to be a lot to handle .
Going forwards , his crossing wasn ’ t to the required standard and was often food and drink for the towering Webster and Veltman .
Different kind of challenge to Wood and Barnes of Burnley .
Maupay ’ s trickery and dropping deep to receive the ball meant that Ivanovic was occasionally sucked out of position .
Was more than a match for anything Brighton posed in the air , but that wasn ’ t often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Straight into the starting XI after the moving on of Hegazi , and it was clear that his relationship with new colleague Ivanovic is in its infancy .
Was unfortunate with his part in the goal , when he blocked Maupay ’ s shot straight into the path of Lamptey .
Got his legs in a tangle early on when faced with Lamptey but Albion escaped punishment .
Always an outlet for Johnstone ’ s diagonals , but he afforded Lamptey too much room on more than one occasion .
Better in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ green and yellow shirt .
One of the more positive displays here .
Struggled at times against the classy Lallana , but he covered so much ground .
One shot just after half time when destined for goal was blocked , and he showed courage in the corner to beat his man before his pull-back intended for Pereira was cut out .
Some of his long range passing was excellent .
His best intentions backfired when he only ended up getting in the way of Ivanovic ’ s clearance before half time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared to be foul on Lamptey as he burst into the box at the beginning of the second half .
Was busy early on and tested Ryan from range .
Kept it safe with his passing in the final third , when more intricate balls into feet to the often suffocated Grant would ’ ve given Brighton problems .
In a deeper role when Livermore went off he was brave and began to dictate the play from his own half .
Some classy stuff , at times .
Gorgeous ball into the path @ @ @ @ @ @ @ range in open play , but his set pieces were disappointing once more .
Lingered on the ball longer than he ought to have when well placed .
Much , much better in his ten role after the changes and he might ’ ve scored twice from range .
He ’ ll give most full-backs a game this season , but Diangana here met his match with Lamptey .
The former Chelsea kid was equal to Diangana when it came to agility and pace .
Diangana , in an attacking sense then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ withdrawn .
Really struggled to have any kind of impact on the game in the first period , where touches of the ball were at a premium .
Won a couple of free kicks when he used his body well to get Albion up the field .
He only had one chance - and that ’ s all he needed .
Wonderful finish .
In a wide role when he entered the fray , Robinson injected urgency and fresh legs into a weary side who had lost their way .
Picked up an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cameo .
One excellent piece of work on the left allowed Pereira a strike on goal .
Got his feet in a muddle when well placed at one stage , but his energy and enthusiasm really boosted Albion .

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Karlan Grant is off the mark.
The West Brom striker, the summer signing on which so much is depended on, rifled home a late equaliser in Albion’s 1-1 draw at Brighton in a game where, following a double substitution after the hour, the Baggies turned it on.
The first half was dreadful and required a reply - and Bilic got it. Grant has his first goal, a superbly taken one at that and Albion have added another point to their tally which looked unlikely at the break.
They began brightly. Filip Krovinovic struck an effort from distance which was easily held by Mat Ryan and there were promising moves forwards, but once Brighton assumed control Albion were left hanging on to parity for most of the first half.
Neal Maupay had the ball in the net but was flagged for offside. Then, when onside and played in by Adam Lallana, he was superbly denied by Sam Johnstone - Albion’s only real shining light in 45 miserable minutes.
The goal itself, that ensured the Seagulls went in ahead at the break, was a calamity; half-hearted challenges were put to Dan Burn, but he flooded forward and fed the wings. Maupay’s shot was blocked by Semi Ajayi, but the rebound fell to the impressive Tariq Lamptey who squared it across goal.
As Branislav Ivanovic attempted to clear it, he was met by his captain Livermore, who only ricocheted the ball into the net.
Even at the beginning of the second period, Brighton were the better side, comfortable in possession and working out how best to source their second.
But it never came. Bilic called for Kyle Edwards and Callum Robinson and the status quo changed. Robinson slipped in Grant in the last ten minutes, and he did the rest to spark delirium on the visiting bench.
Here is how we rated the Albion players on the whistle.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just 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 by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Johnstone 7
Kicking was below par in the opening stages when one sailed straight over Townsend’s head, but when faced with Brighton attackers Johnstone proved to be the pick of Albion’s players in the first half - again.
Wonderful save denied Maupay with his legs and he kept out Trossard on a couple of occasions, too.
Furlong 5
Two first half attempts on goal sailed over the bar. The movement of March and Trossard proved to be a lot to handle. Going forwards, his crossing wasn’t to the required standard and was often food and drink for the towering Webster and Veltman.
Ivanovic 6
Different kind of challenge to Wood and Barnes of Burnley. Maupay’s trickery and dropping deep to receive the ball meant that Ivanovic was occasionally sucked out of position. Was more than a match for anything Brighton posed in the air, but that wasn’t often with the ball players at their disposal.
(Image: PA)
Ajayi 6
Straight into the starting XI after the moving on of Hegazi, and it was clear that his relationship with new colleague Ivanovic is in its infancy. Was unfortunate with his part in the goal, when he blocked Maupay’s shot straight into the path of Lamptey.
Townsend 5
Got his legs in a tangle early on when faced with Lamptey but Albion escaped punishment. Always an outlet for Johnstone’s diagonals, but he afforded Lamptey too much room on more than one occasion.
Better in the second half, as was every green and yellow shirt.
Gallagher 6
One of the more positive displays here. Struggled at times against the classy Lallana, but he covered so much ground. One shot just after half time when destined for goal was blocked, and he showed courage in the corner to beat his man before his pull-back intended for Pereira was cut out. Some of his long range passing was excellent.
(Image: PA)
Livermore 5
His best intentions backfired when he only ended up getting in the way of Ivanovic’s clearance before half time.
Was fortunate to escape punishment from what appeared to be foul on Lamptey as he burst into the box at the beginning of the second half.
Krovinovic 7*
Was busy early on and tested Ryan from range. Kept it safe with his passing in the final third, when more intricate balls into feet to the often suffocated Grant would’ve given Brighton problems.
In a deeper role when Livermore went off he was brave and began to dictate the play from his own half. Some classy stuff, at times.
Pereira 6
Gorgeous ball into the path of Diangana early on showcased his passing range in open play, but his set pieces were disappointing once more. Lingered on the ball longer than he ought to have when well placed.
Much, much better in his ten role after the changes and he might’ve scored twice from range.
(Image: PA)
Diangana 5
He’ll give most full-backs a game this season, but Diangana here met his match with Lamptey. The former Chelsea kid was equal to Diangana when it came to agility and pace.
Diangana, in an attacking sense then, was left nullified throughout before he was withdrawn.
Grant 6
Really struggled to have any kind of impact on the game in the first period, where touches of the ball were at a premium. Won a couple of free kicks when he used his body well to get Albion up the field.
He only had one chance - and that’s all he needed. Wonderful finish.
(Image: PA)
SUBS
Robinson (for Livermore 63) 6
In a wide role when he entered the fray, Robinson injected urgency and fresh legs into a weary side who had lost their way. Picked up an assist for the goal. An important cameo.
Edwards (for Diangana 63) 6
One excellent piece of work on the left allowed Pereira a strike on goal. Got his feet in a muddle when well placed at one stage, but his energy and enthusiasm really boosted Albion.
Phillips (for Grant 83)
Subs not used: Button, Bartley, Gibbs, Harper
Brighton
Ryan, Lamptey, White, Webster, Bissouma, Maupay, Trossard (Alzate 79), Lallana (Gross 61), March (Mac Allister 70), Burn, Veltman
Subs not used : Steele, Connolly, Welbeck, Bernardo
GOALS
Brighton - Livermore OG 40; Albion - Grant 83
The ref: Jon Moss
Up next: Fulham (a) - Monday 2 November (17:30)


birminghammail--2020-10-26--'Tragic loss' as school's headteacher dies suddenly

A Birmingham school and former students have paid tribute after their 'fantastic ' headteacher died suddenly .
Colin Parker has been head at King Edward VI Aston School , in Frederick Road , for the last 16 years .
But the much-loved teacher , who was aged in his 50s , died suddenly on Saturday ( October 24 ) .
His 'unexpected death ' has come as a huge shock to the school where he had been headmaster since 2004 .
Hywel Thomas , Chair of the King Edward VI Foundation , paid tribute as he extended his sympathy to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone affected at the school .
Recalling 'the best of colleagues ' , he said : `` It is with great sadness and a deep sense of loss that we have learned that Colin Parker , Headmaster at King Edward VI Aston School , has died .
`` His sudden and unexpected death has shocked us all and we extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mrs. Parker , his family and all at Aston .
`` Colin was appointed Head at Aston in 2004 and led the school with distinction and humanity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s most respected Heads .
`` I knew Colin through his attendance at many Foundation meetings and he was the best of colleagues .
In addition to the deep knowledge and extensive experience he brought to discussions , his contribution had balance , foresight and wisdom .
`` Although quiet , modest and self-effacing , his contribution to the Foundation ’ s developments were significant and substantial .
`` Seeing the need for the Foundation to extend its reach to much wider groups of Birmingham children and families , he brought to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and honesty which were instrumental in moving us forward . ''
He added : `` To say that Colin will be greatly missed by us all as a colleague is self-evident and it is a tragic loss for colleagues at Aston .
`` It is a tribute to his leadership qualities that I have no doubt they will rise to the challenge of supporting each other while working together over the coming weeks . ''
Several pupils he taught over the years also took to social media to pay their respects and share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
On Sunday , Daily Telegraph Co-Chair Nick Timothy , wrote : `` Just heard the terrible news that we lost Colin Parker , @ KEASTONVI headteacher , yesterday .
`` Colin was at the forefront of getting more working class kids into King Edward schools .
He was a lovely man , a great history teacher and a Christian .
Please say a prayer for him . ''
Mr Tom Slattery , a fellow teacher , added : `` Shocked and saddened to hear the sudden passing of Colin Parker : Headteacher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my 2 brothers .
`` Thoughts are with his family and an entire school community .
Can ’ t imagine how awful it would be to lose your headteacher especially during this time.
`` Another commented : `` Really saddened to hear about the sudden death of Mr Parker , my son 's headteacher at @ KEASTONVI @ schoolsofkevi .
`` He was a fantastic headteacher who always had time to chat to parents and supported all the boys at the school .
Will be greatly missed . ''

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A Birmingham school and former students have paid tribute after their 'fantastic' headteacher died suddenly.
Colin Parker has been head at King Edward VI Aston School, in Frederick Road, for the last 16 years.
But the much-loved teacher, who was aged in his 50s, died suddenly on Saturday (October 24).
His 'unexpected death' has come as a huge shock to the school where he had been headmaster since 2004.
Hywel Thomas, Chair of the King Edward VI Foundation, paid tribute as he extended his sympathy to Mr Parker's wife and family and everyone affected at the school.
Recalling 'the best of colleagues', he said: "It is with great sadness and a deep sense of loss that we have learned that Colin Parker, Headmaster at King Edward VI Aston School, has died.
"His sudden and unexpected death has shocked us all and we extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mrs. Parker, his family and all at Aston.
"Colin was appointed Head at Aston in 2004 and led the school with distinction and humanity, soon becoming one of the Foundation’s most respected Heads.
"I knew Colin through his attendance at many Foundation meetings and he was the best of colleagues. In addition to the deep knowledge and extensive experience he brought to discussions, his contribution had balance, foresight and wisdom.
"Although quiet, modest and self-effacing, his contribution to the Foundation’s developments were significant and substantial.
"Seeing the need for the Foundation to extend its reach to much wider groups of Birmingham children and families, he brought to our discussions a sound judgement, integrity and honesty which were instrumental in moving us forward."
He added: "To say that Colin will be greatly missed by us all as a colleague is self-evident and it is a tragic loss for colleagues at Aston.
"It is a tribute to his leadership qualities that I have no doubt they will rise to the challenge of supporting each other while working together over the coming weeks."
Several pupils he taught over the years also took to social media to pay their respects and share memories of the 'great history teacher'.
On Sunday, Daily Telegraph Co-Chair Nick Timothy, wrote: "Just heard the terrible news that we lost Colin Parker, @KEASTONVI headteacher, yesterday.
"Colin was at the forefront of getting more working class kids into King Edward schools. He was a lovely man, a great history teacher and a Christian. Please say a prayer for him."
Mr Tom Slattery, a fellow teacher, added: "Shocked and saddened to hear the sudden passing of Colin Parker: Headteacher at @KEASTONVI he taught me and my 2 brothers.
"Thoughts are with his family and an entire school community. Can’t imagine how awful it would be to lose your headteacher especially during this time. "
Another commented: "Really saddened to hear about the sudden death of Mr Parker, my son's headteacher at @KEASTONVI @schoolsofkevi .
"He was a fantastic headteacher who always had time to chat to parents and supported all the boys at the school. Will be greatly missed."