birminghammail--2020-02-12--'It can happen' - Adama Traore transfer latest as Liverpool, Barcelona & Man City circle Wolves ace

Virtually every elite club in Europe is reportedly interested in signing Wolverhampton Wanderers ’ Adama Traore .
The 24-year-old has come into his own under Nuno Espirito Santo at Molineux this season and is now one of the most feared players in the Premier League .
His performances have attracted plenty of attention with his former club Barcelona , Real Madrid , Manchester City , Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur all linked with moves in the transfer market .
Traore , who only cost £18million from Middlesbrough in 2018 , is bound to command a colossal transfer fee with some reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price tag on his head .
Here we take a look at everything which has been said and reported about Traore ’ s future so far : What has Traore said ?
The player is the most important piece of the jigsaw in any transfer and his wish will inevitably be granted .
Traore has never given any inclination that he isn ’ t content at Wolves and he is devoted to Nuno .
Whenever Traore has been asked about Nuno , both publicly and privately , he has offered nothing but positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his potential .
While some players refuse to address speculation surrounding their own future , Traore has never avoided questions which have been put to him over the past few months .
During an interview with Madrid-based radio station Cadena SER , Traore admitted he would consider a return to Spain with either Barcelona or arch-rivals Real Madrid .
`` I do n't have resentment towards Barca , only good memories , but if Real Madrid called me I would think about that offer in the same way I would if it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cadena SER .
`` I was there [ at Barcelona ] for 10 years and I have great memories .
There were some problems with the club , some misunderstandings , so I decided to leave to grow as a player .
“ I took that decision but I prefer not to talk about the story I had with the club , it was a decision I took in that moment and I do n't regret it.
” What ‘ interested ’ managers think of him Three Premier League clubs have been linked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from champions elect Liverpool to Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur .
City boss Pep Guardiola is well aware of Traore from his time at Barcelona and has joined Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho in talking up the Wolves star .
Pep Guardiola : `` He is a motorcycle !
It ’ s almost impossible ( to stop him ) .
Nobody can handle this pace.
” Jurgen Klopp : `` He is unplayable in moments , it 's unbelievable .
What a player – it 's not only him but he 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Adama and Diogo ( Jota ) ?
I don ’ t want to speak about them because I get tired seeing them run.
” What Nuno has said Nuno was pretty blunt and to the point about the possibility of Traore leaving in the January transfer window .
“ No , ” he said when asked about it at the start of the month .
And that was the end of that .
Speaking more generally about the possibility of losing his star players , Nuno has said : “ When the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As managers we have to be ready because anything can happen.
” If Traore continues to torment defences , in both the Premier League and throughout Europe , during the final months of the season Nuno will undoubtedly face further questions about the Spaniard in pre-season .
Football romantics - who aren ’ t of a Wolves persuasion - will be aroused by the possibility of Traore rejoining the club he played for as a boy .
Traore spent 11 years at Barcelona and was born in the shadows of the Camp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their La Masia academy under revered coach Albert Benaiges before quitting Barca for Aston Villa in 2015 .
Speaking exclusively to BirminghamLive after Traore joined Wolves from Middlesbrough , Benaiges admitted it wouldn ’ t surprise him if his former prodigy followed the route of Gerard Pique and Cesc Fabregas in returning to Catalonia .
“ It 's true lately I have n't seen him play , ” said Benaiges.
“ But it can happen.
” He added : “ I ’ m not surprised by his performance .
Adama was a magnificent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clause in Traore ’ s contract when he joined Villa , but they ’ ll have to pay a heck of a lot more to re-sign him now .

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Virtually every elite club in Europe is reportedly interested in signing Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Adama Traore.
The 24-year-old has come into his own under Nuno Espirito Santo at Molineux this season and is now one of the most feared players in the Premier League.
His performances have attracted plenty of attention with his former club Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur all linked with moves in the transfer market.
Traore, who only cost £18million from Middlesbrough in 2018, is bound to command a colossal transfer fee with some reports even suggesting Wolves have slapped a £150million price tag on his head.
Here we take a look at everything which has been said and reported about Traore’s future so far:
What has Traore said?
The player is the most important piece of the jigsaw in any transfer and his wish will inevitably be granted.
Traore has never given any inclination that he isn’t content at Wolves and he is devoted to Nuno. Whenever Traore has been asked about Nuno, both publicly and privately, he has offered nothing but positive words about the coach who has unlocked his potential.
While some players refuse to address speculation surrounding their own future, Traore has never avoided questions which have been put to him over the past few months.
During an interview with Madrid-based radio station Cadena SER, Traore admitted he would consider a return to Spain with either Barcelona or arch-rivals Real Madrid.
(Image: Getty Images)
"I don't have resentment towards Barca, only good memories, but if Real Madrid called me I would think about that offer in the same way I would if it was a Barca one,” he told Cadena SER.
"I was there [at Barcelona] for 10 years and I have great memories. There were some problems with the club, some misunderstandings, so I decided to leave to grow as a player.
“I took that decision but I prefer not to talk about the story I had with the club, it was a decision I took in that moment and I don't regret it.”
What ‘interested’ managers think of him
Four Premier League clubs have been linked with Traore in the last few months, from champions elect Liverpool to Manchester City, United and Tottenham Hotspur.
City boss Pep Guardiola is well aware of Traore from his time at Barcelona and has joined Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho in talking up the Wolves star.
Meanwhile, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted Traore is the Wolves player that he fears the most.
Pep Guardiola: "He is a motorcycle! It’s almost impossible (to stop him). Nobody can handle this pace.”
Jurgen Klopp: "He is unplayable in moments, it's unbelievable. What a player – it's not only him but he's so good."
Jose Mourinho: “Adama and Diogo (Jota)? I don’t want to speak about them because I get tired seeing them run.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: “Traore and Jimenez are always difficult to play against. They are very good players.”
What Wolves have said
Nuno was pretty blunt and to the point about the possibility of Traore leaving in the January transfer window. “No,” he said when asked about it at the start of the month. And that was the end of that.
Speaking more generally about the possibility of losing his star players, Nuno has said: “When the transfer window is open anything can happen. As managers we have to be ready because anything can happen.”
Traore's stunning form, in the Premier League and in Europe, makes it inevitable that top teams will come calling.
(Image: Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
Wolves' loans manager Seyi Olofinjana was asked about Traore's future recently during an interview with Goal.
“He is a good player and we've all seen what he is capable of doing," Olofinjana told Goal. "His sheer pace, power, goalscoring stint, skills on the ball and also running the length of the pitch.
“He's been doing it for the past few seasons, so we are very much aware of what he brings to the table. In terms of what will happen to him going forward, the league has not ended, so we need to wait for that.
"We can't ignore the fact that he has done very well for the club.
“Anybody can leave Wolves, he came from somewhere and he can leave any day.
"Regarding genuine transfer interest in our players, there are procedures and policies that we consider as a club, they tell us whether it is the right step for us or not.”
What Traore’s mentor said
Football romantics - who aren’t of a Wolves persuasion - will be excited by the possibility of Traore rejoining the club he played for as a boy.
Traore spent 11 years at Barcelona and was born in the shadows of the Camp Nou.
He learned his trade at their La Masia academy under revered coach Albert Benaiges before quitting Barca for Aston Villa in 2015.
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Speaking exclusively to BirminghamLive after Traore joined Wolves from Middlesbrough, Benaiges admitted it wouldn’t surprise him if his former prodigy followed the route of Gerard Pique and Cesc Fabregas in returning to Catalonia.
“It's true lately I haven't seen him play,” said Benaiges. “But it can happen.”
He added: “I’m not surprised by his performance. Adama was a magnificent boy.”
Barcelona even inserted a buy-back clause in Traore’s contract when he joined Villa, but they’ll have to pay a heck of a lot more to re-sign him now.


birminghammail--2020-02-12--The liquids you can take on board Birmingham Airport flights in hand luggage - and what's banned

Passengers can easily be caught out when trying to pack liquids into hand luggage - and it can be confusing for many travellers .
There are numerous rules with many restrictions in place for liquids .
Tough security rules mean travellers can only pack certain things in their cabin luggage .
Liquids come with a number of stringent restrictions , the Express reports .
Travellers can only bring packs containing under 100ml of liquids and they must fit in one clear plastic bag .
Most major brands of toiletries now produce popular items in containers suitable to carry in hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the liquids rule .
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) reveals on its site that some liquids can pass through security despite being over 100ml - even though there are plans for the ban to come to an end .
There are three different reasons for such liquids being accepted onboard in larger quantities The first reason is if they ’ re for essential medical purposes , secondly if they ’ re for special dietary requirements , and thirdly if they contain baby food or baby milk .
The Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need supporting documentation from a relevant medical professional ( for example a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription ) .
“ Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids at the security point .
Medical equipment is screened separately.
” The FCO explained : “ When travelling with a baby you ’ re allowed to take enough baby food , baby milk and sterilised water for the journey .
There is no legal limit to how much you can take however check with your airport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be carried in hand luggage even if you ’ re not travelling with a baby , but individual containers of breast milk must hold no more than 2,000ml .
“ Each container will need to be screened at the security point , ” states the FCO .
“ Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids.
” Other baby liquids will need the baby to be present .
These include formula milk , cow ’ s milk , sterilised water , soya milk , baby food and cooling gel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breast milk in hand luggage .
The following items are banned onboard Acids and alkalis ( for example spillable ‘ wet ’ batteries ) Self-defence or disabling sprays ( for example mace , pepper spray ) Poisons or toxic substances ( for example rat poison ) Materials that could spontaneously combust ( burst into flames )

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Harriet Mallinson, Brett Gibbons)

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Passengers can easily be caught out when trying to pack liquids into hand luggage - and it can be confusing for many travellers.
There are numerous rules with many restrictions in place for liquids.
Tough security rules mean travellers can only pack certain things in their cabin luggage. Liquids come with a number of stringent restrictions, the Express reports.
Travellers can only bring packs containing under 100ml of liquids and they must fit in one clear plastic bag. Most major brands of toiletries now produce popular items in containers suitable to carry in hand luggage, but there are exceptions to the liquids rule.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) reveals on its site that some liquids can pass through security despite being over 100ml - even though there are plans for the ban to come to an end.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
There are three different reasons for such liquids being accepted onboard in larger quantities
The first reason is if they’re for essential medical purposes, secondly if they’re for special dietary requirements, and thirdly if they contain baby food or baby milk.
Liquids for medical purposes or special dietary requirements:
Tablets and capsules
Essential liquid medicines
Hypodermic syringes
Inhalers
Cooling gel packs
Special food and liquids needed for medical reasons.
The Foreign Office explained: “You’ll need supporting documentation from a relevant medical professional (for example a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription).
“Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids at the security point. Medical equipment is screened separately.”
Baby food or baby milk
The FCO explained: “When travelling with a baby you’re allowed to take enough baby food, baby milk and sterilised water for the journey. There is no legal limit to how much you can take however check with your airport before you travel.
Breast milk can be carried in hand luggage even if you’re not travelling with a baby, but individual containers of breast milk must hold no more than 2,000ml.
“Each container will need to be screened at the security point,” states the FCO. “Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids.”
Other baby liquids will need the baby to be present. These include formula milk, cow’s milk, sterilised water, soya milk, baby food and cooling gel packs.
You cannot carry frozen breast milk in hand luggage.
The following items are banned onboard
Oxidisers and organic peroxides, including bleach and car body repair kits
Acids and alkalis (for example spillable ‘wet’ batteries)
Corrosives or bleaching agents (including mercury and chlorine)
Vehicle batteries and fuel systems
Self-defence or disabling sprays (for example mace, pepper spray)
Radioactive materials (including medicinal or commercial isotopes)
Poisons or toxic substances (for example rat poison)
Biological hazards (for example infected blood, bacteria, viruses)
Materials that could spontaneously combust (burst into flames)
Fire extinguishers


birminghammail--2020-02-12--ADVERTORIAL: 15% off tickets to celebrate Trentham Monkey Forest’s 15th birthday - don’t miss out

It ’ s the Staffordshire visitor attraction that has welcomed visitors from across the world .
Now Trentham Monkey Forest is 15 years old - and it ’ s opening for the first time in its birthday year on February 15th .
To celebrate the landmark , the dedicated organisation , which does vital conservation work to help the endangered Barbary macaques species , is offering a special 15 % birthday discount to guests across the weekend to visit it ’ s adorable free roaming monkeys - on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th .
To enjoy this special opportunity to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and use the code 15YEARS .
Since opening in July 2015 this unique attraction has enjoyed so many amazing successes .
This ancient forest near Stoke-on-Trent is home to 140 Barbary macaques which originate from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and Algeria - and live as they would in the wild .
There are no fences or barriers to separate you from the monkeys like you find in zoos and some safari parks , allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the monkeys ’ world .
The population of Barbary macaques has decreased by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 years , with fewer than 8,000 left in the wild .
Being from Africa , they are geographically the closest monkeys to the UK .
Some Barbary macaques live in Gibraltar .
Barbary macaques are listed as endangered by the IUCN Red List due to loss of habitat and the illegal pet trade .
Trentham Monkey Forest is strongly committed to the protection of the species by : Raising public awareness for the need to protect this endangered species by giving people the opportunity to observe the Barbary macaques in a setting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information in order to help engage our visitors Working with organisations to help protect Barbary macaques , such as Barbary macaque Awareness and Conservation ( BMAC ) To book your tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest click here - and to get 15 % off opening weekend on February 15th and 16th use the code 15YEARS How visitors can help Trentham Monkey Forest visitors can help this conservation work by following these tips : Don ’ t have your picture taken with a ‘ photo prop ’ monkeys or other animals .
Learn all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Monkey Forest and then spread their important message .
Don ’ t miss out on the 15 % off online tickets to celebrate the 15th birthday on the opening weekend on 15th and 16th February .
Book here More than 90 baby Barbary macaques have been born at Trentham Monkey Forest since it opened in 2005 .
Babies are born each spring to early summer after five-and-a-half months ’ pregnancy for mum , with males helping to care for babies too .
Adult tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest cost £9.50 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can save 10 % when you book online and for opening weekend on February 15 and 16 there ’ s a special birthday 15 % additional saving being offered .
Must be booked in advance before 10am on day of visit .
Code : 15YEARS Trentham Monkey Forest is home to 10 monkey families with babies , brothers , sisters , cousins , aunts and uncles and grandparents all wandering free among the trees and pathways .
Their oldest resident lived until 32 .
The attraction is presently home to two monkeys aged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the monkeys lives .
At night they sleep in the trees .
Mums give birth while they are up in the trees too .
During winter the Barbary macaques keep warm by growing a thick furry coat to shield them from the chilly weather while they remain living out in the trees at Trentham .
Barbary macaques are omnivores .
Each day the 140 monkeys in the forest are fed 100kg food - the equivalent of 33 billion grains of sand , or 32,000 tea bags .
This is made up 20kg @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and 80kg of fruit and vegetables - including oranges , apples and potatoes .
Bananas are popular too and used for snacks throughout the day .
They also forage for acorns and beechnuts and munch on insects and grass .
In the wild Barbary macaques dine on crickets and scorpions , among other creatures .
To book your tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest click here - and to get 15 % off opening weekend on February 15th and 16th use the code 15YEARS There are 23 species of macaque monkey - but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that live in Africa , with the rest being in Asia .
Trentham Monkey Forest celebrates this fact each year on Africa Day in July .
Visitors can discover all the conservation work being done in Africa to help the species and enjoy African themed entertainment .
The French connection - and German one Trentham Monkey Forest has sister parks in France and Germany .
The French park opened first , in 1969 which was followed by a second park in Rocamadour , also in France , then a third park opened in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups of Barbary macaques from the existing parks were re-homed here in Trentham , and the park opened to the public in July 2005 .
Adult tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest cost £9.50 and children ’ s cost £7.50 .
You can save 10 % when you book online and for opening weekend on February 15 and 16 there ’ s a special birthday 15 % additional saving being offered .
Must be booked in advance before 10am on day of visit .
Code : 15YEARS Trentham Monkey Forest is part of Trentham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a shopping centre .
Trentham Estate has a fascinating history , from being the Staffordshire seat for the Duke of Sutherland , to becoming one of Capability Brown ’ s pioneering landscapes with a Charles Barry designed Italianate Flower Garden , to an open-air swimming pool and famed music venue ( hosting the likes of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones ) .
It became know as the ‘ Playground of the Potteries ’ , but fell into serious decline and disrepair after being sold in 1979 .
In 2006 it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new owners and underwent a £100 million transformation .
A magical Fairy Trail , a hide and speak maze , the UK ’ s first Barefoot Walk and a 42-seat battery operated catamaran called ‘ Miss Elizabeth ’ was also introduced .
It also features 77 timber lodge cabins , an onsite hotel and a massive Garden Centre in the Shopping Village .
As well as the monkeys and fabulous trees Trentham Monkey Forest has a range of activities and outlets to keep visitors busy .
Here are all the things you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trentham Monkey Forest click here - and to get 15 % off opening weekend on February 15th and 16th use the code 15YEARS How long does it take to go round ?
Monkey Forest is the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon and is great for all the family .
Most visitors spend a few hours within the monkey enclosure and are free to re-enter as many times as they wish during their trip .
The woodland walk is just less than a mile long and there are multiple information boards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situated throughout the forest to help answer any questions you may have during your trip and to ensure the park rules are followed .
Hourly feeding talks take place at quarter past each hour and are a must watch .
It is always recommended to take your time around the forest , stopping to take pictures and take in the monkeys fascinating behaviour – they ’ re extremely entertaining to watch !
Why conservation work is more important than ever At the heart of everything that Trentham Monkey Forest does is conservation work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Staffordshire tourism has enabled it to raise awareness of the plight of the Barbary macaque .
Helping to spread the important message about the conservation of the endangered species that call Trentham home .
Director Matt Lovatt commented : `` With conservation now firmly at the forefront of political discussion , we ’ re delighted that the work we undertake at Monkey Forest is more relevant than ever .
`` We can ’ t wait to invite visitors for the 2020 season and tell them about the endangered Barbary macaque , after all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primate to us here in the UK ’ ’ .
Adult tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest cost £9.50 and children ’ s cost £7.50 .
You can save 10 % when you book online and for opening weekend on February 15 and 16 there ’ s a special birthday 15 % additional saving being offered .
Must be booked in advance before 10am on day of visit .
Code : 15YEARS

It’s the Staffordshire visitor attraction that has welcomed visitors from across the world.
Now Trentham Monkey Forest is 15 years old - and it’s opening for the first time in its birthday year on February 15th.
To celebrate the landmark, the dedicated organisation, which does vital conservation work to help the endangered Barbary macaques species, is offering a special 15% birthday discount to guests across the weekend to visit it’s adorable free roaming monkeys - on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th.
To enjoy this special opportunity to see Trentham Monkey Forest just click here and use the code 15YEARS.
Since opening in July 2015 this unique attraction has enjoyed so many amazing successes.
Here’s 15 reasons to celebrate Trentham Monkey Forest's 15th birthday.
Living in the wild
This ancient forest near Stoke-on-Trent is home to 140 Barbary macaques which originate from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and Algeria - and live as they would in the wild.
There are no fences or barriers to separate you from the monkeys like you find in zoos and some safari parks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the monkeys’ world.
Endangered species
The population of Barbary macaques has decreased by more than 50% in the last 30 years, with fewer than 8,000 left in the wild. Being from Africa, they are geographically the closest monkeys to the UK. Some Barbary macaques live in Gibraltar.
Barbary macaques are listed as endangered by the IUCN Red List due to loss of habitat and the illegal pet trade.
Conservation work
Trentham Monkey Forest is strongly committed to the protection of the species by:
Raising public awareness for the need to protect this endangered species by giving people the opportunity to observe the Barbary macaques in a setting similar to their natural habitat
Developing educational information in order to help engage our visitors
Working with organisations to help protect Barbary macaques, such as Barbary macaque Awareness and Conservation (BMAC)
To book your tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest click here - and to get 15% off opening weekend on February 15th and 16th use the code 15YEARS
How visitors can help
Trentham Monkey Forest visitors can help this conservation work by following these tips:
Don’t have your picture taken with a ‘photo prop’ monkeys or other animals.
Don’t buy primates as pets
Learn all about the Barbary macaques during a visit to the Monkey Forest and then spread their important message.
Don’t miss out on the 15% off online tickets to celebrate the 15th birthday on the opening weekend on 15th and 16th February. Book here
90 Babies born since opening
More than 90 baby Barbary macaques have been born at Trentham Monkey Forest since it opened in 2005. Babies are born each spring to early summer after five-and-a-half months’ pregnancy for mum, with males helping to care for babies too.
Adult tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest cost £9.50 and children’s cost £7.50. You can save 10% when you book online and for opening weekend on February 15 and 16 there’s a special birthday 15% additional saving being offered. Must be booked in advance before 10am on day of visit. Code: 15YEARS
Family ties
Trentham Monkey Forest is home to 10 monkey families with babies, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts and uncles and grandparents all wandering free among the trees and pathways. Their oldest resident lived until 32. The attraction is presently home to two monkeys aged 30.
Home in the trees
Trees are an important part of the monkeys lives. At night they sleep in the trees. Mums give birth while they are up in the trees too.
Winter fur
During winter the Barbary macaques keep warm by growing a thick furry coat to shield them from the chilly weather while they remain living out in the trees at Trentham.
Food for life
Barbary macaques are omnivores. Each day the 140 monkeys in the forest are fed 100kg food - the equivalent of 33 billion grains of sand, or 32,000 tea bags.
This is made up 20kg of seed - wheat and sunflower seed - and 80kg of fruit and vegetables - including oranges, apples and potatoes. Bananas are popular too and used for snacks throughout the day.
They also forage for acorns and beechnuts and munch on insects and grass. In the wild Barbary macaques dine on crickets and scorpions, among other creatures.
To book your tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest click here - and to get 15% off opening weekend on February 15th and 16th use the code 15YEARS
Out of Africa
There are 23 species of macaque monkey - but the Barbary macaques are the only ones that live in Africa, with the rest being in Asia. Trentham Monkey Forest celebrates this fact each year on Africa Day in July.
Visitors can discover all the conservation work being done in Africa to help the species and enjoy African themed entertainment.
The French connection - and German one
Trentham Monkey Forest has sister parks in France and Germany. The French park opened first, in 1969 which was followed by a second park in Rocamadour, also in France, then a third park opened in Germany in 1976.
In 2004 two groups of Barbary macaques from the existing parks were re-homed here in Trentham, and the park opened to the public in July 2005.
Adult tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest cost £9.50 and children’s cost £7.50. You can save 10% when you book online and for opening weekend on February 15 and 16 there’s a special birthday 15% additional saving being offered. Must be booked in advance before 10am on day of visit. Code: 15YEARS
Trentham Estate links
Trentham Monkey Forest is part of Trentham Estate - a visitor attraction featuring gardens and a shopping centre.
Trentham Estate has a fascinating history, from being the Staffordshire seat for the Duke of Sutherland, to becoming one of Capability Brown’s pioneering landscapes with a Charles Barry designed Italianate Flower Garden, to an open-air swimming pool and famed music venue (hosting the likes of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones).
It became know as the ‘Playground of the Potteries’, but fell into serious decline and disrepair after being sold in 1979. In 2006 it was given a new lease of life from new owners and underwent a £100 million transformation.
A magical Fairy Trail, a hide and speak maze, the UK’s first Barefoot Walk and a 42-seat battery operated catamaran called ‘Miss Elizabeth’ was also introduced.
It also features 77 timber lodge cabins, an onsite hotel and a massive Garden Centre in the Shopping Village.
Things to do
As well as the monkeys and fabulous trees Trentham Monkey Forest has a range of activities and outlets to keep visitors busy. Here are all the things you can do:
Hourly feeding talks
Helpful guides to explain monkey antics
Banana Cafe
Jungle Shop
Picnic Areas
Adventure Play Areas
Meadow Walk (seasonal)
Hidden Trail
Video Room
Information Centre
Free Parking summer events
Summer events
Free children's quiz
To book your tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest click here - and to get 15% off opening weekend on February 15th and 16th use the code 15YEARS
How long does it take to go round?
Monkey Forest is the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon and is great for all the family.
Most visitors spend a few hours within the monkey enclosure and are free to re-enter as many times as they wish during their trip.
The woodland walk is just less than a mile long and there are multiple information boards along the way.
Knowledgeable guides are situated throughout the forest to help answer any questions you may have during your trip and to ensure the park rules are followed.
Hourly feeding talks take place at quarter past each hour and are a must watch.
It is always recommended to take your time around the forest, stopping to take pictures and take in the monkeys fascinating behaviour – they’re extremely entertaining to watch!
Why conservation work is more important than ever
At the heart of everything that Trentham Monkey Forest does is conservation work.
It’s leading role in Staffordshire tourism has enabled it to raise awareness of the plight of the Barbary macaque. Helping to spread the important message about the conservation of the endangered species that call Trentham home.
Director Matt Lovatt commented: "With conservation now firmly at the forefront of political discussion, we’re delighted that the work we undertake at Monkey Forest is more relevant than ever.
"We can’t wait to invite visitors for the 2020 season and tell them about the endangered Barbary macaque, after all, they are the closest wild living primate to us here in the UK’’.
Adult tickets to Trentham Monkey Forest cost £9.50 and children’s cost £7.50. You can save 10% when you book online and for opening weekend on February 15 and 16 there’s a special birthday 15% additional saving being offered. Must be booked in advance before 10am on day of visit. Code: 15YEARS


birminghammail--2020-02-12--ISIS plotter who tried to join Iraq extremist group could be denied early prison release

A terrorist sympathiser from the West Midlands who attempted to flee and join an Iraqi extremist group could be set for a longer stay in prison .
Aras Mohammed Hamid , from Coventry , tried to join the group and arrange for others to join him in the Middle East .
The Kurdish-born ISIS plotter was jailed for seven years for preparing acts of terrorism after a trial at Kingston Crown Court in January 2017 .
But Hamid , who was also convicted of possessing a fake Bulgarian passport , had been set for early release in May 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Coventry when he plotted to travel to the Middle East to fight with ISIS .
He was described at court as the mastermind behind plans to send fighters to join the Salahaddin Battalion , a Kurdish unit of Daesh .
The would-be combatants also included Ahmed Ismail , a student from Courthouse Green , Coventry , and Shivan Hayder Azeez Zangana , known as Azeez , from Sheffield .
Kurdish-born Hamid had been pivotal in plans for Ismail and Azeez to travel from Gatwick to Sulaymaniyah in northern Iraq , Kingston Crown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ismail in Coventry during the planning in May 2016 .
But he was discovered alongside Azeez , a fellow Kurd who was also prepared to defy his family background , after they were found sleeping at a Birmingham mosque .
Azeez , then aged 21 , was arrested while Hamid was eventually detained two days later when he was found hiding in the back of a lorry on the A2 with a fake passport in an apparent bid to sneak out of the country .
Hamid , then aged 26 , was jailed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being convicted of two counts of preparing for acts of terrorism .
Ismail , then aged 19 , received an 18-month prison term for failing to disclose information about acts of terrorism and Azeez , 21 , was jailed for three years for preparing for acts of terrorism .
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland said emergency legislation is needed to make sure offenders serve two-thirds of their sentence before they are considered eligible for release , so they are no longer freed halfway through .
Before being released , cases would be considered by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Parole Board .
Speaking to the PA news agency , Mr Walton said : `` I believe that all terrorist offenders should serve their full term of sentence .
`` Terrorist offenders are motivated by ideology and are therefore always potentially dangerous . ''
On Monday Lord Carlile , the UK 's independent reviewer of terrorism legislation from 2001 to 2011 , said control orders would be an `` effective and proportionate response '' to tackle the `` immediate problem '' of offenders being automatically released from prison after serving half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the home secretary put a terrorist suspect under close supervision , described by some as being similar to house arrest , with restrictions on who they meet and where they go .
The orders were repealed and replaced in 2011 by measures known as Tpims ( Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures ) , said by the Government said to be a less intrusive system which addressed concerns about civil liberties with time limits and a higher test to be met for one to be brought into force .
The Prime Minister said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how to apply it `` retrospectively to the cohort of people who currently qualify '' , but added : `` It is time to take action to ensure , irrespective of the law we are bringing in , people in the current stream do n't qualify automatically for early release . ''
Lawyers have already raised concerns about the proposal , with some warning it would open the Government up to legal challenges from those already behind bars who were sentenced under the current rules .
Some have questioned whether this would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Convention of Human Rights .
But Government officials believe they have the flexibility to change how an offender serves their sentence , by extending the time they spend behind bars rather than on licence .
This has also prompted warnings that concerns about radicalisation behind bars need to be addressed .
Leading criminologist Dr Irman Awan , of Birmingham City University , is calling for a wider look at the Prison Service 's role in rehabilitating offenders .
Dr Awan said : `` The horrific terror attack that took place in Streatham has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of terror prisoners.There is a clear pattern of escalating violence in these individuals ' behaviour whoalso have previous convictions .
Despite these similar patterns of behaviour , questions must be asked about reintegration and issues of rehabilitation .
`` One way forward that offers a real opportunity for disengagement from terrorism and can help prisoners reintegrate into society is a closer look at our prison system and tackling the radicalisation process and providing early intervention . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Josh Layton, James Rodger)

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A terrorist sympathiser from the West Midlands who attempted to flee and join an Iraqi extremist group could be set for a longer stay in prison.
Aras Mohammed Hamid, from Coventry, tried to join the group and arrange for others to join him in the Middle East.
The Kurdish-born ISIS plotter was jailed for seven years for preparing acts of terrorism after a trial at Kingston Crown Court in January 2017.
But Hamid, who was also convicted of possessing a fake Bulgarian passport, had been set for early release in May 2020, CoventryLive reports.
Hamid had been living in Coventry when he plotted to travel to the Middle East to fight with ISIS.
He was described at court as the mastermind behind plans to send fighters to join the Salahaddin Battalion, a Kurdish unit of Daesh. The would-be combatants also included Ahmed Ismail, a student from Courthouse Green, Coventry, and Shivan Hayder Azeez Zangana, known as Azeez, from Sheffield.
Kurdish-born Hamid had been pivotal in plans for Ismail and Azeez to travel from Gatwick to Sulaymaniyah in northern Iraq, Kingston Crown Court heard. Preparations included Hamid meeting Ismail in Coventry during the planning in May 2016.
But he was discovered alongside Azeez, a fellow Kurd who was also prepared to defy his family background, after they were found sleeping at a Birmingham mosque. Azeez, then aged 21, was arrested while Hamid was eventually detained two days later when he was found hiding in the back of a lorry on the A2 with a fake passport in an apparent bid to sneak out of the country.
Hamid, then aged 26, was jailed for seven years in January 2017 after being convicted of two counts of preparing for acts of terrorism.
Ismail, then aged 19, received an 18-month prison term for failing to disclose information about acts of terrorism and Azeez, 21, was jailed for three years for preparing for acts of terrorism.
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland said emergency legislation is needed to make sure offenders serve two-thirds of their sentence before they are considered eligible for release, so they are no longer freed halfway through.
Before being released, cases would be considered by a panel of specialist judges and psychiatrists at the Parole Board.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Speaking to the PA news agency, Mr Walton said: "I believe that all terrorist offenders should serve their full term of sentence.
"Terrorist offenders are motivated by ideology and are therefore always potentially dangerous."
On Monday Lord Carlile, the UK's independent reviewer of terrorism legislation from 2001 to 2011, said control orders would be an "effective and proportionate response" to tackle the "immediate problem" of offenders being automatically released from prison after serving half their sentence.
Control orders were introduced under 2005 anti-terrorism legislation.
The order signed by the home secretary put a terrorist suspect under close supervision, described by some as being similar to house arrest, with restrictions on who they meet and where they go.
The orders were repealed and replaced in 2011 by measures known as Tpims (Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures), said by the Government said to be a less intrusive system which addressed concerns about civil liberties with time limits and a higher test to be met for one to be brought into force.
The Prime Minister said the "difficulty" of new legislation is how to apply it "retrospectively to the cohort of people who currently qualify", but added: "It is time to take action to ensure, irrespective of the law we are bringing in, people in the current stream don't qualify automatically for early release."
Lawyers have already raised concerns about the proposal, with some warning it would open the Government up to legal challenges from those already behind bars who were sentenced under the current rules.
Some have questioned whether this would be a breach of rules under the European Convention of Human Rights.
But Government officials believe they have the flexibility to change how an offender serves their sentence, by extending the time they spend behind bars rather than on licence.
This has also prompted warnings that concerns about radicalisation behind bars need to be addressed.
Leading criminologist Dr Irman Awan, of Birmingham City University, is calling for a wider look at the Prison Service's role in rehabilitating offenders.
Dr Awan said: "The horrific terror attack that took place in Streatham has again shone a light on the release of terror prisoners.There is a clear pattern of escalating violence in these individuals' behaviour whoalso have previous convictions. Despite these similar patterns of behaviour, questions must be asked about reintegration and issues of rehabilitation.
"One way forward that offers a real opportunity for disengagement from terrorism and can help prisoners reintegrate into society is a closer look at our prison system and tackling the radicalisation process and providing early intervention."


birminghammail--2020-02-12--'Villa last season' - Buoyant Birmingham City fans wade into big Championship debate

Birmingham City are on the crest of a nine-game unbeaten run , one that has seen them win their last three Championship matches .
The latest came in terrible conditions at Barnsley on Tuesday night when Scott Hogan bagged his third goal in three games to edge Blues to a 1-0 victory .
That sequence has seen them move from the lower-half of mid-table , into a more secure position - 13 points clear of the drop zone and - going into tonight ’ s Championship matches seven shy of the play-offs .
We asked Blues fans if the team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the top six .
Here ’ s what they said .
MC Iqbal : getting carried away again ... should take one game at a time and if we can keep this going even bigger bonus , just being realistic , sure is brilliant to be feeling like this though Matthew Myers : If we win our next game and the guys above us lose , we got every chance but again its blues , yes unbeaten in 9 or something but that run needs to stand until the end of the season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lund : To stand any chance Hogan and Juke would have to stay fit as no other options but you never know .
Stephen Cannon : Let ’ s try and relax and enjoy the season and see what happens ... What we do know is we ain ’ t going down Paul Lowe : Realistically 6th place is only up for grabs even if good enough consistently .
Teams in 3rd , 4th & 5th much better .
Never say never but a huge ask .
Steve Evans : As long as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confidence into the team then you see changes .
Players read about themselves .
I ’ m totally against rating player performances .
It ’ s a team performance .
Our support could be the difference between a play off position or not .
So get behind the lads .
We have been doing that and it ’ s good to see .
Peter Lewis : Let ’ s just win as many games as we can , keep our best players and build on this for the future .
Matthew Boyce : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the Premier League , we need at least one more season to get our **** together at board level , with finances and recruitment of players who could cut it at Prem level , other than maybe 5 or 6 players we only have a championship squad and I don ’ t like the idea of being promoted and spending 40-50 million rebuilding a squad quickly as Fulham and Villa have found don ’ t work and could hurt us more in the long term financially .
Colin Perry : Sell out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I think we could sneak in the playoffs .
Matthew Dawes : last two games is the best I have seen Blues since Fulham in May 2018 ... if they keep it disciplined and keep fit who knows !
buildon on this team and coaching staff for next season is very promising though ... .
Done Playoffs Done Second ... next Champions !
Eddie Milner : We ’ re only a point behind where Villa were last season and same points from top six .
So a late push is possible IF @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we could think it ’ s possible , and that would be without injuries effecting the team for the rest of the season too .
Bernard Gunner Draisey : With a heavy heart not this season but keep praying you never no we could sneak in to the playoffs Maison McDonnell : I would really love it but there are team above us playing a lot better and scoring more freely Simon Ford : Tbh I ’ d say no but they have raised there game against the top teams so nothing is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always going to hard conditions wasn ’ t the best but the teams that make the playoffs grind out results like we did last night main thing is we are safe Reece Wood : Too many teams to get past , but it ’ s a good building point for hopefully a bigger year next year , all be it we actually do some business in the summer , hogan and salter on a perm should be main objectives , Paul Davis : I ’ m happy in the position we are in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play offs next season as need to build the right squad for play offs or automatic , KRO Joan Morris : I ’ m happy to settle for not looking over my shoulder at relegation need to keep it real not ready for premier league Jon Barnes : No surprise that we have picked up since new number 2 has come in - the guy was at Fulham - more important role than manager Jez Mcdonough : You always have that one team who has a unbeaten run towards end of the season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only team to be on that run Tim Connaughton : Definitely not , we are not consistent enough , and we would get slaughtered every week if we were promoted.let ’ s build on what we have got KRO Darren Gould : Got ta keep a settled team , no more chopping and changing for the sake of it .
If we keep up the current performance level then we have an outside chance .
Rhys Thomas : Definitely possible now !
But any defeat I think may put us out of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s do how tonight ’ s games go it could go back to 10 points by end of the day .
Just makes the boro result more frustrating as could be two points closer still Whittaker Le Rave Dave : Far too competitive and there are much better teams but one team always makes a late push ... you never know Stephen Harley : No chance , too much negativity and doom and gloom with our twelfth man !
Kro Jon James : As long as we stay up I ’ ll be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is .
Steve Middleman : If the momentum continues , then I can ’ t see Why Not !
!
!
!
Richard Bishop : Don ’ t get carried away , we could also lose five or more onthe trot .
Just take one at a time and enjoy it .
Chris Stokes : No , too many teams in the mix Matthew Stephen Williams : No .
But I am enjoying this run we are on .
Not getting carried away David Glover : We can but dream John Morris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Club .
Paul Lees : Lets get enough points to avoid a relegation scrap and then look upwards Andrew Michael Wren : 25percent chance 14 games left need at least 9 wins out of that kro kro Dean Clifford : Yeah why not just take each game as it comes Alfie Gillespie : Need to win them all

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Birmingham City are on the crest of a nine-game unbeaten run, one that has seen them win their last three Championship matches.
The latest came in terrible conditions at Barnsley on Tuesday night when Scott Hogan bagged his third goal in three games to edge Blues to a 1-0 victory.
That sequence has seen them move from the lower-half of mid-table, into a more secure position - 13 points clear of the drop zone and - going into tonight’s Championship matches seven shy of the play-offs.
We asked Blues fans if the team had a realistic chance of finishing in the top six. Here’s what they said.
MC Iqbal: getting carried away again...should take one game at a time and if we can keep this going even bigger bonus , just being realistic, sure is brilliant to be feeling like this though
Matthew Myers: If we win our next game and the guys above us lose, we got every chance but again its blues, yes unbeaten in 9 or something but that run needs to stand until the end of the season for us to see play offs
Paul Lund: To stand any chance Hogan and Juke would have to stay fit as no other options but you never know.
Stephen Cannon: Let’s try and relax and enjoy the season and see what happens... What we do know is we ain’t going down
Paul Lowe: Realistically 6th place is only up for grabs even if good enough consistently. Teams in 3rd, 4th & 5th much better. Never say never but a huge ask.
Watch:
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Steve Evans: As long as the fans do their bit and bring confidence into the team then you see changes. Players read about themselves. I’m totally against rating player performances. It’s a team performance. Our support could be the difference between a play off position or not. So get behind the lads. We have been doing that and it’s good to see.
Peter Lewis: Let’s just win as many games as we can, keep our best players and build on this for the future.
Matthew Boyce: We as a club are not ready for the Premier League, we need at least one more season to get our **** together at board level, with finances and recruitment of players who could cut it at Prem level, other than maybe 5 or 6 players we only have a championship squad and I don’t like the idea of being promoted and spending 40-50 million rebuilding a squad quickly as Fulham and Villa have found don’t work and could hurt us more in the long term financially.
Colin Perry: Sell out st Andrews, make it a fortress and I think we could sneak in the playoffs.
Matthew Dawes: last two games is the best I have seen Blues since Fulham in May 2018... if they keep it disciplined and keep fit who knows! buildon on this team and coaching staff for next season is very promising though.... Done Playoffs Done Second... next Champions!
Eddie Milner: We’re only a point behind where Villa were last season and same points from top six.
So a late push is possible
Ben Wallcroft: Big game Saturday, big crowd, renewed hope....what usually happens?
IF Blues pull off a win then maybe we could think it’s possible, and that would be without injuries effecting the team for the rest of the season too.
Bernard Gunner Draisey: With a heavy heart not this season but keep praying you never no we could sneak in to the playoffs
poll loading Have Birmingham City got a realistic chance of reaching the play-offs this season? 500+ VOTES SO FAR Yes - nine unbeaten anything's possible No - We've left ourselves with too much to do
Maison McDonnell: I would really love it but there are team above us playing a lot better and scoring more freely
Simon Ford: Tbh I’d say no but they have raised there game against the top teams so nothing is impossible but Barnsley are scrapping for points always going to hard conditions wasn’t the best but the teams that make the playoffs grind out results like we did last night main thing is we are safe
Reece Wood: Too many teams to get past, but it’s a good building point for hopefully a bigger year next year, all be it we actually do some business in the summer, hogan and salter on a perm should be main objectives,
Paul Davis: I’m happy in the position we are in , think we should be looking at play offs next season as need to build the right squad for play offs or automatic, KRO
(Image: Tim Easthope)
Joan Morris: I’m happy to settle for not looking over my shoulder at relegation need to keep it real not ready for premier league
Jon Barnes: No surprise that we have picked up since new number 2 has come in - the guy was at Fulham - more important role than manager
Jez Mcdonough: You always have that one team who has a unbeaten run towards end of the season and makes playoffs and we are the only team to be on that run
Tim Connaughton: Definitely not, we are not consistent enough,and we would get slaughtered every week if we were promoted.let’s build on what we have got KRO
Darren Gould: Gotta keep a settled team, no more chopping and changing for the sake of it. If we keep up the current performance level then we have an outside chance.
Rhys Thomas: Definitely possible now! But any defeat I think may put us out of the race.
Dean Walker: Let’s do how tonight’s games go it could go back to 10 points by end of the day. Just makes the boro result more frustrating as could be two points closer still
Whittaker Le Rave Dave : Far too competitive and there are much better teams but one team always makes a late push...you never know
Stephen Harley: No chance, too much negativity and doom and gloom with our twelfth man! Kro
Jon James: As long as we stay up I’ll be happy, not very ambitious but there it is.
(Image: Tim Easthope)
Steve Middleman: If the momentum continues, then I can’t see Why Not !!!!
Richard Bishop: Don’t get carried away, we could also lose five or more onthe trot. Just take one at a time and enjoy it.
Chris Stokes: No, too many teams in the mix
Matthew Stephen Williams: No. But I am enjoying this run we are on. Not getting carried away
David Glover: We can but dream
John Morris: Mid table this season will stabilise the Club.
Paul Lees: Lets get enough points to avoid a relegation scrap and then look upwards
Andrew Michael Wren: 25percent chance 14 games left need at least 9 wins out of that kro kro
Gary Broome: No, small steps
Eamonn Murray: no chance
Dean Clifford: Yeah why not just take each game as it comes
Alfie Gillespie: Need to win them all


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Clean Air Zone in Birmingham delayed due to online vehicle checker chaos

Birmingham 's controversial Clean Air Zone is set to be delayed due to huge errors with the government 's online vehicle checker - and will not be introduced until at least six months after the problems are resolved .
Speaking during an interview , leader of the council Ian Ward confirmed that the planned charge will not be introduced because of the malfunctioning online checker service .
This means that the charge will not come into force until at least the end of August , and could be delayed even further .
The council had already announced that the charge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the earliest , and late last week the government published the online vehicle checker which allowed motorists to check whether or not their vehicle would be compliant .
However there have been issues with the checker so far , with several road users who thought their cars were compliant being told they will have to pay a daily charge of £8 to access the city centre .
Transport Secretary Grant Schapps has called for 'urgent work ' on the checker , saying it is 'not up to scratch ' .
And leader of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further , calling for the CAZ to be scrapped altogether .
“ It is no surprise that Labour have taken the opportunity to delay implementation of their controversial travel tax , '' he said .
`` It is absolutely right that everyone should be given sufficient time to be able to check their vehicles for compliance and take appropriate action but it is also clear that this provides the Labour run Council a convenient excuse to hide their own failings , as well as try to provide cover for the Cabinet Member ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rely on the Transport for London checker when making purchasing decisions .
`` While we welcome the delay , of course the simplest and fairest option remains cancelling the 'travel tax ' all together and implementing the Conservative Group ’ s own plan for Clean Air which would avoid the negative impact on the least well off as well the damage to public health caused by pushing pollution out from the city centre to residential areas around the ring road .
”

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Birmingham's controversial Clean Air Zone is set to be delayed due to huge errors with the government's online vehicle checker - and will not be introduced until at least six months after the problems are resolved.
Speaking during an interview, leader of the council Ian Ward confirmed that the planned charge will not be introduced because of the malfunctioning online checker service.
This means that the charge will not come into force until at least the end of August, and could be delayed even further.
The council had already announced that the charge would not be introduced until June at the earliest, and late last week the government published the online vehicle checker which allowed motorists to check whether or not their vehicle would be compliant.
To keep up-to-date with the latest traffic and travel news across the city join our Facebook group here
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However there have been issues with the checker so far, with several road users who thought their cars were compliant being told they will have to pay a daily charge of £8 to access the city centre.
Transport Secretary Grant Schapps has called for 'urgent work' on the checker, saying it is 'not up to scratch'.
And leader of the opposition Cllr Robert Alden went one further, calling for the CAZ to be scrapped altogether.
“It is no surprise that Labour have taken the opportunity to delay implementation of their controversial travel tax," he said.
"It is absolutely right that everyone should be given sufficient time to be able to check their vehicles for compliance and take appropriate action but it is also clear that this provides the Labour run Council a convenient excuse to hide their own failings, as well as try to provide cover for the Cabinet Member’s ill-judged advice to the public to rely on the Transport for London checker when making purchasing decisions.
"While we welcome the delay, of course the simplest and fairest option remains cancelling the 'travel tax' all together and implementing the Conservative Group’s own plan for Clean Air which would avoid the negative impact on the least well off as well the damage to public health caused by pushing pollution out from the city centre to residential areas around the ring road.”
Get email updates with the latest Politics news This newsletter will bring you a brief round-up of the best, most important or simply quirky stories that have been hitting the headlines over the past few days in the world of politics across Birmingham and the West Midlands. To subscribe click on the link, tick the politics box and enter your email address.
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: “The government has recognised the teething problems with its Clean Air Zone vehicle checker and is working to iron out any issues as quickly as possible.
“Once those issues are resolved, there needs to be a period for motorists to check and prepare - and it has been suggested that this be a six-month period in fairness to all concerned. This remains in line with the previously-stated CAZ launch estimate of summer 2020.
“The key message is that if you are driving a Euro 4 petrol vehicle or Euro 6 diesel your vehicle will be compliant with Birmingham’s CAZ.”


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Two Dudley men convicted after cyclist killed in hit and run crash

Four men have been convicted after a cyclist died in a hit and run at a busy junction .
Abdul Hadi suffered 'catastrophic ' injuries after he was struck in a horrific hit and run crash in London .
Medics rushed him to hospital with a serious skull fracture , a bleed on the brain and a fractured pelvis .
But the 49-year-old 'loving husband and father ' never regained consciousness after the crash on January 10 , 2018 , and spent 18 months in a coma .
He died on July 13 last year .
Four family members - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now been convicted over the incident .
Angelo Kaminski drove through a red traffic light and collided with Abdul , before driving off from the scene and attempting to cover his tracks .
Kaminski was driving south on Camden Road when he struck a cyclist at the junction of Royal College Road .
He drove off , passing through a red light , before abandoning the car in Kings Terrace .
He pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice during the trial at Wood Green @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no fixed address , was also found guilty of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice after colluding with his father , younger brother and cousin in an attempt to deflect attention away from his involvement .
His father , Grzegorz Kaminski , 47 , and brother , Patryk Kaminski , 21- both of Wolverton Road , Dudley - were found guilty of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice .
His cousin Adrian Kaminski , 26 , of Bouncers Road , London was also convicted of the same charge .
All four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Green Crown Court this Friday ( February 14 ) .
Detective Inspector Cheryl Frost , who led the investigation for the Serious Collision Investigation Unit , said : `` Angelo Kaminski drove through a red light and struck Abdul Hadi , leaving him with catastrophic injuries .
`` Instead of stopping and trying to help Mr Hadi , he thought only about himself , fleeing the scene and then , along with his family members , instigating attempts to cover his tracks .
`` I would like to thank the Hadi family for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this tragic incident which has left them deprived of a loving husband and father . ''

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Four men have been convicted after a cyclist died in a hit and run at a busy junction.
Abdul Hadi suffered 'catastrophic' injuries after he was struck in a horrific hit and run crash in London.
Medics rushed him to hospital with a serious skull fracture, a bleed on the brain and a fractured pelvis.
But the 49-year-old 'loving husband and father' never regained consciousness after the crash on January 10, 2018, and spent 18 months in a coma.
He died on July 13 last year.
Four family members - including two men from Dudley - have now been convicted over the incident.
(Image: Met Police)
Angelo Kaminski drove through a red traffic light and collided with Abdul, before driving off from the scene and attempting to cover his tracks.
Kaminski was driving south on Camden Road when he struck a cyclist at the junction of Royal College Road.
He drove off, passing through a red light, before abandoning the car in Kings Terrace.
He pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice during the trial at Wood Green Crown Court.
The 28-year-old, of no fixed address, was also found guilty of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice after colluding with his father, younger brother and cousin in an attempt to deflect attention away from his involvement.
(Image: Google Street View)
His father, Grzegorz Kaminski, 47, and brother, Patryk Kaminski, 21- both of Wolverton Road, Dudley - were found guilty of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
His cousin Adrian Kaminski, 26, of Bouncers Road, London was also convicted of the same charge.
All four have been remanded for sentencing at Wood Green Crown Court this Friday (February 14).
Detective Inspector Cheryl Frost, who led the investigation for the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "Angelo Kaminski drove through a red light and struck Abdul Hadi, leaving him with catastrophic injuries.
"Instead of stopping and trying to help Mr Hadi, he thought only about himself, fleeing the scene and then, along with his family members, instigating attempts to cover his tracks.
"I would like to thank the Hadi family for all their support throughout the investigation into this tragic incident which has left them deprived of a loving husband and father."


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Jason Donovan to star in Birmingham Hippodrome's 2020 pantomime Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Jason Donovan is coming to the Hippodrome in Birmingham for this year 's panto .
Australian actor , singer and much-loved personality Jason will make his pantomime debut in this year ’ s long-awaited pantomime , Goldilocks and the Three Bears .
Donovan said : “ I ’ m absolutely honoured to have been asked to take part in the Hippodrome panto , and to work with Michael Harrison once again is going to be a lot of fun .
As one of the biggest and best pantomimes in the country I can not wait to get started with Matt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of British popular culture for over thirty years , Donovan burst onto British television screens as Scott Robinson on the hugely popular Australian soap Neighbours in 1986 , a role which saw him dominate soap land and be involved in some of the most iconic storylines in the show ’ s history .
While still appearing on the show Jason signed a record contract with 80s hit makers Stock Aitken Waterman and raced to the top of the UK charts with his hit singles Nothing Can Divide Us , Too Many Broken Hearts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with his Neighbours co-star Kylie Minogue .
In 1989 Jason released his debut studio album , Ten Good Reasons , which rose to the top of the charts in the UK and his native Australia , leading to extensive world tours and featured vocals on Band Aid II ’ s Do They Know its Christmas .
Jason made his stage debut in 1991 , performing in the lead role of Andrew Lloyd Webber ’ s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the world-famous London Palladium , which led to his third UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Do .
Since then he has starred in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang ( again at the London Palladium ) , held the title role in the UK tour of Stephen Sondheim ’ s Sweeney Todd , played Tick in Priscilla Queen of the Desert at the Palace Theatre ( a role which he also reprised on its first UK tour ) and played Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music On television Jason came third in the sixth series of ITV ’ s I ’ m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC1 ’ s Strictly Come Dancing , where he reached the final .
In 2012 Jason released the album Sign of Your Love , became a DJ on Heart Radio and Heart 80s and most recently co-produced the current UK tour of Priscilla Queen of the Desert .
Qdos Entertainment Managing Director Michael Harrison said : “ Without doubt Jason is going to be an absolute natural in pantomime thanks to his undeniable showmanship and quick wit .
Having worked with him on the recent revival of Joseph I have seen first-hand just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t wait for him to experience the magic of a Hippodrome audience.
” Fiona Allan , Birmingham Hippodrome Artistic Director and Chief Executive added : “ Every year we strive to bring Birmingham audiences a spectacular pantomime featuring some of the biggest and best names in entertainment .
Jason Donovan ’ s pantomime debut is a huge coup for Birmingham and the theatre , we look forward to welcoming audiences this festive season for what is sure to be the greatest show on earth .
”

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Jason Donovan is coming to the Hippodrome in Birmingham for this year's panto.
Australian actor, singer and much-loved personality Jason will make his pantomime debut in this year’s long-awaited pantomime, Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
The production runs from Saturday 19 December.
Donovan said: “I’m absolutely honoured to have been asked to take part in the Hippodrome panto, and to work with Michael Harrison once again is going to be a lot of fun. As one of the biggest and best pantomimes in the country I cannot wait to get started with Matt Slack and the team.”
(Image: Channel 5)
A stalwart of British popular culture for over thirty years, Donovan burst onto British television screens as Scott Robinson on the hugely popular Australian soap Neighbours in 1986, a role which saw him dominate soap land and be involved in some of the most iconic storylines in the show’s history.
While still appearing on the show Jason signed a record contract with 80s hit makers Stock Aitken Waterman and raced to the top of the UK charts with his hit singles Nothing Can Divide Us, Too Many Broken Hearts and the duet Especially For You, with his Neighbours co-star Kylie Minogue.
In 1989 Jason released his debut studio album, Ten Good Reasons, which rose to the top of the charts in the UK and his native Australia, leading to extensive world tours and featured vocals on Band Aid II’s Do They Know its Christmas.
Jason made his stage debut in 1991, performing in the lead role of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the world-famous London Palladium, which led to his third UK number one single, Any Dream Will Do .
Since then he has starred in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (again at the London Palladium), held the title role in the UK tour of Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd , played Tick in Priscilla Queen of the Desert at the Palace Theatre (a role which he also reprised on its first UK tour) and played Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music
On television Jason came third in the sixth series of ITV’s I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! , and the ninth series of BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing , where he reached the final. In 2012 Jason released the album Sign of Your Love , became a DJ on Heart Radio and Heart 80s and most recently co-produced the current UK tour of Priscilla Queen of the Desert .
Qdos Entertainment Managing Director Michael Harrison said: “Without doubt Jason is going to be an absolute natural in pantomime thanks to his undeniable showmanship and quick wit. Having worked with him on the recent revival of Joseph I have seen first-hand just what a star he is and I can’t wait for him to experience the magic of a Hippodrome audience.”
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Fiona Allan, Birmingham Hippodrome Artistic Director and Chief Executive added: “Every year we strive to bring Birmingham audiences a spectacular pantomime featuring some of the biggest and best names in entertainment. Jason Donovan’s pantomime debut is a huge coup for Birmingham and the theatre, we look forward to welcoming audiences this festive season for what is sure to be the greatest show on earth.”


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Face of woman who attacked partner so fiercely she left him blind at Premier Inn hotel

A woman who assaulted a man with a table and extension lead in the room of a Loughborough hotel has been jailed .
Claire Wilson , 39 , was sentenced to nine years when she appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Friday ( 7 February ) .
Wilson , of Southey Close , Leicester , was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent on 22 November following a trial at the same court .
The incident happened in August 2018 , when Wilson and a man known to her checked into a hotel in Loughborough .
During the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alcohol before returning to the room – whereby an argument ensued .
Wilson used both a table and extension cord in the room as weapons , causing serious injuries to the man , who was able to report the incident at reception .
Police were called and Wilson was arrested inside the hotel .
Detective Constable Nicola Davies , from Leicestershire Police ’ s Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit ( DAIU ) , was the investigating officer .
She said : “ This case is an example that men can also be victims of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man suffered have had a profound impact on his quality of life and could prohibit him from gaining employment in future .
I ’ ve also little doubt what happened will have affected his own confidence and could impact on future relationships .
“ This was a very complex investigation which required support from other agencies .
I hope the outcome of this case can serve as a warning that the force takes a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse .
”

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A woman who assaulted a man with a table and extension lead in the room of a Loughborough hotel has been jailed.
Claire Wilson, 39, was sentenced to nine years when she appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Friday (7 February).
Wilson, of Southey Close, Leicester, was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent on 22 November following a trial at the same court.
The incident happened in August 2018, when Wilson and a man known to her checked into a hotel in Loughborough. During the course of the evening, they drank alcohol before returning to the room – whereby an argument ensued.
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Wilson used both a table and extension cord in the room as weapons, causing serious injuries to the man, who was able to report the incident at reception. Police were called and Wilson was arrested inside the hotel.
Detective Constable Nicola Davies, from Leicestershire Police’s Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit (DAIU), was the investigating officer.
She said: “This case is an example that men can also be victims of domestic violence.
“The injuries the man suffered have had a profound impact on his quality of life and could prohibit him from gaining employment in future. I’ve also little doubt what happened will have affected his own confidence and could impact on future relationships.
“This was a very complex investigation which required support from other agencies. I hope the outcome of this case can serve as a warning that the force takes a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse.”


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Manager makes incredible prediction about new Aston Villa signing

Signing for Aston Villa has already transformed Mbwana Samatta ’ s career , Tanzania head coach Etienne Ndayiragije has said .
Samatta was Villa ’ s marquee transfer in January , arriving on a four-and-a-half year contract from Belgian champions Genk for a fee of £8.5m .
The move was greeted with widespread joy in his native Tanzania , with Samatta becoming the first player from the East African country to join a Premier League side .
The striker scored on his top-flight debut , a consolation in the 2-1 defeat against relegation rivals Bournemouth at the start of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Keinan Davis ' effort to head home .
Ndayiragije , speaking to the Daily News in Tanzania , has backed his captain to take his game to another level now he 's playing in England .
“ He has managed to get a good challenge which will make him the best because when you move from a low standard to the upper level , you definitely grow and become better due to new challenges you are exposed to , ” he said .
Samatta scored 20 goals in 28 league games to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - with 32 goals in 51 appearances in all competitions , including nine in the Europa League .
He scored another 10 in 28 outings this term before moving to Villa last month .
Ndayiragije added : “ When you get a chance to work at a certain place , do not feel content but always be eager to look for challenges somewhere else because it will help you learn new things . ''

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Signing for Aston Villa has already transformed Mbwana Samatta’s career, Tanzania head coach Etienne Ndayiragije has said.
Samatta was Villa’s marquee transfer in January, arriving on a four-and-a-half year contract from Belgian champions Genk for a fee of £8.5m.
The move was greeted with widespread joy in his native Tanzania, with Samatta becoming the first player from the East African country to join a Premier League side.
The striker scored on his top-flight debut, a consolation in the 2-1 defeat against relegation rivals Bournemouth at the start of the month, reacting quickest to a ricochet from Keinan Davis' effort to head home.
Ndayiragije, speaking to the Daily News in Tanzania, has backed his captain to take his game to another level now he's playing in England.
“He has managed to get a good challenge which will make him the best because when you move from a low standard to the upper level, you definitely grow and become better due to new challenges you are exposed to,” he said.
Samatta scored 20 goals in 28 league games to fire Genk to the title last season - with 32 goals in 51 appearances in all competitions, including nine in the Europa League.
He scored another 10 in 28 outings this term before moving to Villa last month.
Ndayiragije added: “When you get a chance to work at a certain place, do not feel content but always be eager to look for challenges somewhere else because it will help you learn new things."


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Would-be bank robber foiled by Barclays staff during terrifying broad daylight raid jailed

A Midlands man who attempted to rob a bank in broad daylight has been sentenced in court .
Michael McCabe , 40 , appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Monday ( 10 February ) where he admitted one count of attempted robbery .
Yesterday ( Tuesday ) , he was sentenced to two years and four months imprisonment .
At 4pm on 6 January McCabe , of no fixed address , walked into Barclays Bank in Evington , Leicester , and handed a note across the counter to a member of staff .
The note demanded money and suggested no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also gestured to the teller that he had a weapon hidden in his clothing .
A second employee , aware of what was unfolding , called emergency services who arrived at the bank and arrested McCabe before he had a chance to flee the scene .
Detective Constable Jack Thomas is from the force ’ s Complex Investigation Team .
He said : “ Pretending he had a weapon , McCabe brazenly entered the bank and demanded money without thinking of the panic and distress he was causing to those caught up in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to commend the actions of the employee who quickly raised the alarm and helped to bring the incident to a swift end .
”

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A Midlands man who attempted to rob a bank in broad daylight has been sentenced in court.
Michael McCabe, 40, appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Monday (10 February) where he admitted one count of attempted robbery.
Yesterday (Tuesday), he was sentenced to two years and four months imprisonment.
At 4pm on 6 January McCabe, of no fixed address, walked into Barclays Bank in Evington, Leicester, and handed a note across the counter to a member of staff.
The note demanded money and suggested no one needed to get hurt.
McCabe also gestured to the teller that he had a weapon hidden in his clothing.
A second employee, aware of what was unfolding, called emergency services who arrived at the bank and arrested McCabe before he had a chance to flee the scene.
Detective Constable Jack Thomas is from the force’s Complex Investigation Team. He said: “Pretending he had a weapon, McCabe brazenly entered the bank and demanded money without thinking of the panic and distress he was causing to those caught up in the situation.
“I would like to commend the actions of the employee who quickly raised the alarm and helped to bring the incident to a swift end.”


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Birmingham one of worst hit cities in UK by Storm Ciara as insurance claims surge

An insurance giant has seen a 285 per cent surge in calls and claims as it helps to repair the damage caused by Storm Ciara - with Birmingham one of the worst-hit cities .
Claims included property damage such as loose tiles and broken windows , as well as flooding .
Andrew Morrish , UK claims director for Aviva , said : `` Storm Ciara is unusual in that it has affected a wide area and so far we 've seen an increase of around 285 per cent in telephone calls and claims , compared to January .
`` Customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of ways and around 10 per cent of people have made a claim using our online claims facility .
`` The majority of claims have been from people whose properties have been affected by strong winds , such as loose roof tiles , broken windows and fallen trees , but we are also starting to see flood claims .
`` We are monitoring the situation closely , particularly where there are flood warnings in place .
We are speaking to customers across many parts of the country , but the worst affected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Sheffield and Bradford . ''
He said the company is using technology to settle claims more quickly .
Mr Morrish said : `` This means that around 12 per cent of customers have already received payments . ''
The Association of British Insurers ( ABI ) has advised people facing damage or flooding to contact their insurer as soon as possible .
Many insurers have 24-hour emergency helplines and they may be able to arrange temporary emergency repairs to stop any damage getting worse .
The ABI advises keeping any receipts which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and not rushing to throw away damaged items unless they are a danger to health , as they may be repaired or restored .
Comprehensive motor insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing vehicles damaged by storms .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Vicky Shaw, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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An insurance giant has seen a 285 per cent surge in calls and claims as it helps to repair the damage caused by Storm Ciara - with Birmingham one of the worst-hit cities.
Claims included property damage such as loose tiles and broken windows, as well as flooding.
Andrew Morrish, UK claims director for Aviva, said: "Storm Ciara is unusual in that it has affected a wide area and so far we've seen an increase of around 285 per cent in telephone calls and claims, compared to January.
"Customers are able to contact us in a number of ways and around 10 per cent of people have made a claim using our online claims facility.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
"The majority of claims have been from people whose properties have been affected by strong winds, such as loose roof tiles, broken windows and fallen trees, but we are also starting to see flood claims.
"We are monitoring the situation closely, particularly where there are flood warnings in place. We are speaking to customers across many parts of the country, but the worst affected areas are Nottingham, Birmingham, Norwich, Sheffield and Bradford."
He said the company is using technology to settle claims more quickly.
Mr Morrish said: "This means that around 12 per cent of customers have already received payments."
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has advised people facing damage or flooding to contact their insurer as soon as possible.
Many insurers have 24-hour emergency helplines and they may be able to arrange temporary emergency repairs to stop any damage getting worse.
The ABI advises keeping any receipts which may be used to support a claim and not rushing to throw away damaged items unless they are a danger to health, as they may be repaired or restored.
Comprehensive motor insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing vehicles damaged by storms.


birminghammail--2020-02-12--Birmingham Council told to 'stop throwing millions away on Commonwealth Games vanity project', as co

Birmingham Council told to 'stop throwing millions away on Commonwealth Games vanity project', as costs rocket

Birmingham council has been told to stop 'throwing money away ' on the Commonwealth Games'vanity ' project after the cost of the multi-million pound athletes ' village spiralled .
A review is now taking place around options to deliver the Perry Barr-based accommodation for 6,500 athletes and officials during the 2022 showpiece event .
Birmingham City Council 's proposed budget report for the next four years states 'it is no longer possible to fully deliver the village in the way originally envisaged ' due to 'substantial inflationary pressures ' and 'constrained timescales ' .
It also revealed the level of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ light of proposals to increase council tax by 3.99 per cent this year .
One 'typical ' response said : `` Not if the money to be gained is used to prop up the Commonwealth Games and not to repair the roads and improve the bin service .
The local areas are a complete mess… ” Around 255 people submitted views during the budget consultation on how the council should deliver services differently with 11 per cent of the comments urging the authority to 'reduce/stop funding for major vanity , particularly the Commonwealth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the report said : `` You are already throwing money away through the Commonwealth Games , be honest about the issues there and get tackling them before millions more are wasted . ''
The cabinet agreed for the draft budget to move forward and be discussed by the full council later this month .
Cllr Rob Alden ( Erdington ) , leader of the Conservative opposition , said : `` The problem around public perception for the Commonwealth Games is the comments made at the beginning .
`` When the council bid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be no impact on the revenue budget , what we are seeing now is the total opposite .
`` What we need to get to asap as a city is an accurate picture of what the games are going to cost , so residents know what the final cost is and can get behind the games . ''
The council is to contribute around £184.6m to the games ' Organising Committee - accounting for around 25 per cent of the cost , with the Government paying the other 75 per cent .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investment which will be funded through borrowing and repaid by the sale of the village after the event when it will be converted into around 1,400 homes .
Council leader Ian Ward ( Labour , Shard End ) argued the Government had prevented the authority from being transparent about the full cost of the games and said promises of help to mitigate the financial pressure of hosting the event 'had not been forthcoming ' .
He added : `` I remain of the view that the hosting of these games , the biggest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stage , is going to benefit this city and its people enormously , it remains for me the right thing to have done . ''
Regarding the concerns over the athletes village and the wider regeneration of Perry Barr , Cllr Ward said : `` The redevelopment of Perry Barr and the surrounding area is one of the council ’ s most exciting and highest priority projects , which will lead to major benefits for existing and future residents .
`` Like all major construction projects , the Perry Barr Regeneration Scheme is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is progressing in line with relevant goals , targets , time-scales and costs .
`` Substantial progress on reducing the financial pressure has already been made and we continue to work with Games partners to develop options to ensure the project is successfully delivered . ''

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Birmingham council has been told to stop 'throwing money away' on the Commonwealth Games'vanity' project after the cost of the multi-million pound athletes' village spiralled.
A review is now taking place around options to deliver the Perry Barr-based accommodation for 6,500 athletes and officials during the 2022 showpiece event.
Birmingham City Council's proposed budget report for the next four years states 'it is no longer possible to fully deliver the village in the way originally envisaged' due to 'substantial inflationary pressures' and 'constrained timescales'.
It also revealed the level of public feeling towards the games, in light of proposals to increase council tax by 3.99 per cent this year.
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One 'typical' response said: "Not if the money to be gained is used to prop up the Commonwealth Games and not to repair the roads and improve the bin service. The local areas are a complete mess…”
Around 255 people submitted views during the budget consultation on how the council should deliver services differently with 11 per cent of the comments urging the authority to 'reduce/stop funding for major vanity, particularly the Commonwealth Games'.
(Image: Copyright Unknown)
Another public comment highlighted in the report said: "You are already throwing money away through the Commonwealth Games, be honest about the issues there and get tackling them before millions more are wasted."
The cabinet agreed for the draft budget to move forward and be discussed by the full council later this month.
Cllr Rob Alden (Erdington), leader of the Conservative opposition, said: "The problem around public perception for the Commonwealth Games is the comments made at the beginning.
"When the council bid for it they always stated there would be no impact on the revenue budget, what we are seeing now is the total opposite.
"What we need to get to asap as a city is an accurate picture of what the games are going to cost, so residents know what the final cost is and can get behind the games."
The council is to contribute around £184.6m to the games' Organising Committee - accounting for around 25 per cent of the cost, with the Government paying the other 75 per cent.
The games village is a separate multi-million pound investment which will be funded through borrowing and repaid by the sale of the village after the event when it will be converted into around 1,400 homes.
Council leader Ian Ward (Labour, Shard End) argued the Government had prevented the authority from being transparent about the full cost of the games and said promises of help to mitigate the financial pressure of hosting the event 'had not been forthcoming'.
(Image: Birmingham City Council.)
He added: "I remain of the view that the hosting of these games, the biggest event this city has ever attempted to stage, is going to benefit this city and its people enormously, it remains for me the right thing to have done."
Regarding the concerns over the athletes village and the wider regeneration of Perry Barr, Cllr Ward said: "The redevelopment of Perry Barr and the surrounding area is one of the council’s most exciting and highest priority projects, which will lead to major benefits for existing and future residents.
"Like all major construction projects, the Perry Barr Regeneration Scheme is continually monitored and reviewed to ensure it is progressing in line with relevant goals, targets, time-scales and costs.
"Substantial progress on reducing the financial pressure has already been made and we continue to work with Games partners to develop options to ensure the project is successfully delivered."