birminghammail--2020-10-07--Cops discover drugs worth £1.5 million in huge cannabis raid

Police seized drugs worth £1.5 million when they busted a huge cannabis factory at an industrial unit in Sutton Coldfield .
Officers discovered the factory at an industrial unit , on Maybrook Road , Walmley , shortly before 2pm yesterday , Tuesday , October 6 .
The set up , decribed as ‘ sophisticated ’ by West Midlands Police , spanned four large rooms - each with its own electricity supply , air ducts and filtration systems .
The electrical supply to the building was being bypassed and hundreds of homes and businesses nearby lost power while it was made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the crop was valued at up to £1.5million .
Sgt Adrian Cox , from the Sutton Coldfield Neighbourhood Priority Team , said : “ This is a significant find and not the kind of activity the community of Walmley would expect to find on their doorstep .
“ Seizing a crop of this size will undoubtedly have a significant impact in disrupting organised criminals .
“ In making the electricity safe , there was a power outage which affected many nearby factory units and residents , so I would like to thank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dealt with this complex system .
“ I would also like to reassure the community we are dedicated to investigating and disrupting those who choose to embark in this kind of criminal behaviour and encourage anyone to report any suspicious behaviour to us.
” A scene remains in place as police continue to forensically examine the units .
Anyone with information can contact police via live chat or on the force website or by calling 101 .
Quote log number 2356 of 06/10 .

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Police seized drugs worth £1.5 million when they busted a huge cannabis factory at an industrial unit in Sutton Coldfield.
Officers discovered the factory at an industrial unit, on Maybrook Road, Walmley, shortly before 2pm yesterday, Tuesday, October 6.
The set up, decribed as ‘sophisticated’ by West Midlands Police, spanned four large rooms - each with its own electricity supply, air ducts and filtration systems.
The electrical supply to the building was being bypassed and hundreds of homes and businesses nearby lost power while it was made safe.
(Image: WMP)
Officers discovered around 1,500 plants and the crop was valued at up to £1.5million.
Sgt Adrian Cox, from the Sutton Coldfield Neighbourhood Priority Team, said: “This is a significant find and not the kind of activity the community of Walmley would expect to find on their doorstep.
(Image: WMP)
“Seizing a crop of this size will undoubtedly have a significant impact in disrupting organised criminals.
“In making the electricity safe, there was a power outage which affected many nearby factory units and residents, so I would like to thank anyone affected for their patience as we dealt with this complex system.
“I would also like to reassure the community we are dedicated to investigating and disrupting those who choose to embark in this kind of criminal behaviour and encourage anyone to report any suspicious behaviour to us.”
A scene remains in place as police continue to forensically examine the units.
Anyone with information can contact police via live chat or on the force website or by calling 101. Quote log number 2356 of 06/10.
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Former Villa keeper makes key point after Liverpool demolition

Mark Bosnich has pointed out that much has been made of the demise of Liverpool and Manchester United this past weekend - but he feels that former club Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur ought to be receiving more credit for their results .
Spurs prevailed 6-1 at Old Trafford on Sunday , an eye-catching result that was bettered at Villa Park a matter of hours later after Villa put champions Liverpool to the sword 7-2 .
Perhaps to be expected , the post-mortem immediately took place as to how United and Liverpool , two of the biggest sides in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the other .
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for updates ahead of the transfer deadline Why should you sign up ?
Villa have made a promising start to the season after signing Ollie Watkins , Betrand Traore , Matty Cash , Emi Martinez and Ross Barkley .
But there is still time to reshape the squad before the window closes at 11pm on Monday .
You can find the latest transfer news in on one pace - in our daily Aston Villa bulletin .
We 'll be bringing you the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
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Google Play Store and App Store Former Villa keeper Bosnich , who is these days a pundit in his native Australia , woke up in the early hours to watch the consecutive matches and was deeply impressed by Villa ’ s all-round performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stunned by , especially following the Manchester United result , ” Bosnich told Sky Sports .
“ We ’ ve gone back to daylight saving time over here , so it was really early in the morning .
At 2:30 in the morning we had the Manchester United game , and then followed by that at quarter past five was Aston Villa v Liverpool , which I stayed up for .
“ That was absolutely fantastic .
In both games , I think everybody has been focusing a lot on Manchester United and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of credit must go to Spurs and second of all to Aston Villa .
“ It was an absolutely fantastic performance by Dean Smith ’ s side , tactically it was spot on .
It wasn ’ t just that - it was the amount of work and running they did for each other , throughout , when they had the ball and when they didn ’ t .
”

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Mark Bosnich has pointed out that much has been made of the demise of Liverpool and Manchester United this past weekend - but he feels that former club Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur ought to be receiving more credit for their results.
Spurs prevailed 6-1 at Old Trafford on Sunday, an eye-catching result that was bettered at Villa Park a matter of hours later after Villa put champions Liverpool to the sword 7-2.
Perhaps to be expected, the post-mortem immediately took place as to how United and Liverpool, two of the biggest sides in the country, could be routinely thrashed one after the other.
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for updates ahead of the transfer deadline Why should you sign up? Villa have enjoyed a fine season so far after signing Ollie Watkins, Betrand Traore, Matty Cash, Emi Martinez and Ross Barkley in the summer. Morgan Sanson is the only January addition so far but there is still time to reshape the squad before the January window closes at 11pm on February 1. You can find the latest transfer news in on one pace - in our daily Aston Villa bulletin. We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up . If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Former Villa keeper Bosnich, who is these days a pundit in his native Australia, woke up in the early hours to watch the consecutive matches and was deeply impressed by Villa’s all-round performance.
“That one I was completely stunned by, especially following the Manchester United result,” Bosnich told Sky Sports. “We’ve gone back to daylight saving time over here, so it was really early in the morning. At 2:30 in the morning we had the Manchester United game, and then followed by that at quarter past five was Aston Villa v Liverpool, which I stayed up for.
“That was absolutely fantastic. In both games, I think everybody has been focusing a lot on Manchester United and Liverpool getting beat, but a lot of credit must go to Spurs and second of all to Aston Villa.
“It was an absolutely fantastic performance by Dean Smith’s side, tactically it was spot on. It wasn’t just that - it was the amount of work and running they did for each other, throughout, when they had the ball and when they didn’t.”


birminghammail--2020-10-07--'Virtual' Remembrance Sunday planned for Brum during lockdown

Birmingham ’ s annual Remembrance Sunday service is going 'virtual ' this year because of the coronavirus pandemic .
There will be no big public event in the city centre next month but instead people are being asked to take part via the internet .
A Service of Remembrance will be live-streamed from St Philip 's Cathedral on Sunday November 8 at10.45am .
Only a small group of invited guests will be at the event .
There will be no service or military parade on Colmore Row , so instead people are being urged to carry out their own acts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to share online using the hashtag # BhamRemembers .
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham , Councillor Mohammed Azim , said local lockdown restrictions had forced them into the `` sad '' decision .
`` It is very sad we are unable to gather together for the city ’ s annual Remembrance Sunday , but we will still remember the fallen who sacrificed so much , '' he said .
“ As the pandemic continues , nobody would be expecting thousands to gather for our usually large , public service with many elderly people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vulnerable to coronavirus .
“ Instead I ’ m asking Birmingham ’ s citizens to watch the live-streamed service from St Philip ’ s Cathedral and take time to remember the men and women who died while serving their country .
“ For the same safety reasons the cathedral service can not be a public event , please pay your respects at home and do not come into the city centre . ''
Gillian Guy , County Chairman of Warwickshire and Birmingham Royal British Legion , said they supported the decision to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham has had to scale back its Remembrance Sunday event and support the decision to have a virtual service instead , '' she said .
“ Given the large numbers usually involved , it is the right thing to ask people to stay at home in the interests of public safety - and I hope they will still tune in to watch the live-streamed service.
” Individuals and organisations that wish to have a wreath laid at the Hall of Memory on Sunday November 8 can deliver them to the Council House ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Friday November 6 and they will be laid on their behalf .
Further details of the service and how people can watch the live stream will be announced nearer the time .

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Birmingham’s annual Remembrance Sunday service is going 'virtual' this year because of the coronavirus pandemic.
There will be no big public event in the city centre next month but instead people are being asked to take part via the internet.
A Service of Remembrance will be live-streamed from St Philip's Cathedral on Sunday November 8 at10.45am. Only a small group of invited guests will be at the event.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
There will be no service or military parade on Colmore Row, so instead people are being urged to carry out their own acts of remembrance at home or school and to share online using the hashtag #BhamRemembers.
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Mohammed Azim, said local lockdown restrictions had forced them into the "sad" decision.
"It is very sad we are unable to gather together for the city’s annual Remembrance Sunday, but we will still remember the fallen who sacrificed so much," he said.
“As the pandemic continues, nobody would be expecting thousands to gather for our usually large, public service with many elderly people – including veterans – who are more vulnerable to coronavirus.
“Instead I’m asking Birmingham’s citizens to watch the live-streamed service from St Philip’s Cathedral and take time to remember the men and women who died while serving their country.
“For the same safety reasons the cathedral service cannot be a public event, please pay your respects at home and do not come into the city centre."
Gillian Guy, County Chairman of Warwickshire and Birmingham Royal British Legion, said they supported the decision to go virtual.
"We fully understand why Birmingham has had to scale back its Remembrance Sunday event and support the decision to have a virtual service instead," she said.
“Given the large numbers usually involved, it is the right thing to ask people to stay at home in the interests of public safety - and I hope they will still tune in to watch the live-streamed service.”
Individuals and organisations that wish to have a wreath laid at the Hall of Memory on Sunday November 8 can deliver them to the Council House (Gatehouse entrance) between Monday November 2 and Friday November 6 and they will be laid on their behalf.
Further details of the service and how people can watch the live stream will be announced nearer the time.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--How to get an Amazon Echo Dot for just £9.99 in pre-Prime Day sale

An eye-catching deal has emerged that means you can now get your hands on an Amazon Echo Dot for less than £10 .
Ordinarily priced at £49.99 , Amazon have already reduced their Echo Dot 's by half price .
It 's one of many deals to have recently appeared on Amazon 's Daily Deals Page in the run-up to Black Friday .
But Amazon 's own 50 % deduction is n't where the savings end .
New Topcashback can also take advantage of a £15 money-back offer by doing nothing other than simply signing up today .
Once you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , all you need to do is follow the links through to Amazon where you can shop as normal .
After your purchase has been made , you will receive £15 into your Topcashback account which is then available to be transferred into your bank .
The deal is n't just exclusive to Amazon either .
The half-price Echo Dot saving has also been matched by Curry 's PC World - and they too are also listed among the retailers where new Topcashback customers can save £15 .
To get started , head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be applied across all purchases made on Amazon , Curry 's PC World and others including asos , ebay and even takeaway orders from JustEat and Dominos .

An eye-catching deal has emerged that means you can now get your hands on an Amazon Echo Dot for less than £10.
Ordinarily priced at £49.99, Amazon have already reduced their Echo Dot's by half price. It's one of many deals to have recently appeared on Amazon's Daily Deals Page in the run-up to Black Friday.
But Amazon's own 50% deduction isn't where the savings end.
New Topcashback can also take advantage of a £15 money-back offer by doing nothing other than simply signing up today.
Once you've clicked through to the Topcashback website, all you need to do is follow the links through to Amazon where you can shop as normal.
After your purchase has been made, you will receive £15 into your Topcashback account which is then available to be transferred into your bank.
The deal isn't just exclusive to Amazon either.
The half-price Echo Dot saving has also been matched by Curry's PC World - and they too are also listed among the retailers where new Topcashback customers can save £15.
To get started, head to Topcashback where the £15 cashback can be applied across all purchases made on Amazon, Curry's PC World and others including asos, ebay and even takeaway orders from JustEat and Dominos.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--We asked Aston Villa fans about signing Jack Wilshere and here's what they said

Aston Villa fans have been discussing the viability of a move for free agent Jack Wilshere .
Wilshere is being heavily linked with a move to Rangers following his exit from West Ham United on Monday .
The former Arsenal midfielder departed the London Stadium after two injury-hit years with the Hammers .
He joined West Ham in 2018 after his release from Arsenal , the England midfielder seeing his career ravaged by injury .
Wilshere has said that he has been fit for the past eight months but has n't been picked by manager David Moyes .
He has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competing at the top level .
Bookmaker SkyBet make Villa second favourite to land Wilshere with Rangers the clear leaders in the market and we 've asked the claret and blue faithful if they would like to see the one-time AFC Bournemouth loanee sign for Dean Smith 's side .
`` I think so , '' one Villa fan said , `` on a low-wage deal that falls in with players already at the club . ''
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store '' Worth a punt , '' another added while a third supporter said : `` We do n't need to fill the treatment room . ''
`` Depends on wages , if he stays fit he would be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I personally do n't think we need him and I think he will demand high wage which we do n't need for the structure , '' a fifth fan said , `` a good player on his day but not for me . ''

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Jack Wilshere continues to be linked with a move to Aston Villa over a month after his exit from West Ham United.
The former Arsenal midfielder departed the Hammers two years into a three-year deal he signed in 2018 when Mikel Arteta's side agreed to let him leave the Emirates Stadium on a free transfer.
Wilshere, whose career has been dogged by persistent injury problems, managed just two Premier League starts last season with a groin injury limiting his participation for David Moyes' side.
The 28 year-old is now on the hunt for a new club and he was said to be in advanced talks with Rangers last month while there was talk that a move to the MLS club could be in the offing.
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Bookmaker SkyBet say Villa are second favourite for Wilshere with a move to any MLS club and Rangers the joint-favourite to be Wilshere's next step.
Turkish side Fenerbahce and Fulham are also said to be in the running.
In a statement after his West Ham exit, Wilshere said he still feels he can play in the top tier and his limited game-time recently hasn't been down to a lack of fitness.
"I have been fully fit for a large period of time at the club, including over the last course of the last eight months – training hard every day – but unfortunately have not been given the opportunity to play," he said.
"Although I am of course frustrated that I was not able to fully showcase what I'm capable of at West Ham I remain confident that I can contribute at the very top of the game."
We asked Villa fans in October what they thought of a move for Wilshere as a move to Dean Smith 's side was being touted.
"I think so," one Villa fan said, "on a low-wage deal that falls in with players already at the club."
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
"Worth a punt," another added while a third supporter said: "We don't need to fill the treatment room."
"Depends on wages, if he stays fit he would be a good squad player," another said.
"I personally don't think we need him and I think he will demand high wage which we don't need for the structure," a fifth fan added, "a good player on his day but not for me."


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Soaring Covid-19 cases charted as circuit breaker lockdown looms

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is reported to be considering imposing further lockdown-style restrictions on people living in cities across the north of England .
And some government scientists are now calling for national rather than local measures , such as a full-blown `` circuit breaker '' lasting two weeks , to stop a second wave of coronavirus .
These graphs , taken from an NHS website , graphically display why Ministers are worried .
They show coronavirus cases soaring in parts of the North .
Data also shows that cases are still high in Birmingham - but appear to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ graphs represents confirmed coronavirus cases .
The number of cases will be affected by the number of tests carried out , but scientists and Government Ministers agree that they also show a real rise in the infection rate .
Cases have shot up in Newcastle : And they have risen in Manchester , although there may have been a small fall in recent days : The situation in Birmingham may be a little better , as the rise seems to have stopped .
However , the Covid-19 rate is still high - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fallen before , only to rise again .
Birmingham 's leaders are trying to avoid having new restrictions in the city While cases are still high in Birmingham , city leaders are urging the Government NOT to introduce tougher lockdown measures here .
They fear that if the Government decides new restrictions are needed in the North , Ministers will also introduce the same measures to the West Midlands .
That 's because the Government has been criticised for introducing different restrictions across the country , with people saying it 's too confusing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a simpler local lockdown system where every place has the same rules .
In particular , Birmingham and West Midlands politicians fear that Health Secretary Matt Hancock could ban people from meeting anyone from a different household in pubs or restaurants - a move which they fear could devastate businesses which are already struggling .
Speaking in the House of Commons , Conservative MP Andrew Mitchell ( Sutton Coldfield ) told the Health Secretary that he backed Tory West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and Ian Ward , the Labour leader of Birmingham City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Mitchell said : `` Will he bear in mind later in this week that our highly effective mayor , Andy Street , the Labour leader of Birmingham City Council and I are all of one mind .
together with Justin Varney , the excellent head of public health in Birmingham , that the current level of infection rates mean there should be no further changes this week . ''
Leaders in the North of England say their local lockdown restrictions are n't working The leaders of city councils in Leeds , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Liverpool , have written a joint letter to Matt Hancock complaining about their local lockdown restrictions .
They say the measures are n't working , and they want the power to introduce their own restrictions instead of having decisions made by central government .
The joint letter said : `` We are extremely concerned about the sharp increase in new Covid-19 cases in the Core Cities and the national responses to these .
The existing restrictions are not working , confusing for the public and some , like the 10pm rule , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures , developed jointly across police , council enforcement and public health services , should be deployed to address rising infection rates based on local knowledge .
As major cities we can also work together to provide a degree of consistency regionally , reducing public confusion .
We want to be clear however that we do not support further economic lockdowns . ''
Some scientists want a new full-blown national lockdown Professor Calum Semple , who specialises in disease outbreaks , recommended a “ circuit breaker ” be considered on a national basis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , rather than trying to reduce it at a later stage .
This would be a full national lockdown , where people are barred from leaving their homes , which lasted around two weeks .
Speaking in a personal capacity , Prof Semple – a member of the Government ’ s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) – told BBC Radio 4 ’ s Today programme that “ perhaps a circuit breaker a couple of weeks ago would have been a really good idea ” .
He added : “ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak at the earlier stage than to let it run and then try to reduce it at a later stage .
“ So , yes , circuit breakers are certainly something we should be thinking about on a national basis .
”

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Prime Minister Boris Johnson is reported to be considering imposing further lockdown-style restrictions on people living in cities across the north of England.
And some government scientists are now calling for national rather than local measures, such as a full-blown "circuit breaker" lasting two weeks, to stop a second wave of coronavirus.
These graphs, taken from an NHS website, graphically display why Ministers are worried.
They show coronavirus cases soaring in parts of the North. Data also shows that cases are still high in Birmingham - but appear to be falling.
The orange line in this graphs represents confirmed coronavirus cases. The number of cases will be affected by the number of tests carried out, but scientists and Government Ministers agree that they also show a real rise in the infection rate.
Cases have shot up in Newcastle :
They've also risen in Liverpool :
And they have risen in Manchester , although there may have been a small fall in recent days:
The situation in Birmingham may be a little better, as the rise seems to have stopped. However, the Covid-19 rate is still high - and as the graph shows, cases have fallen before, only to rise again.
Birmingham's leaders are trying to avoid having new restrictions in the city
While cases are still high in Birmingham, city leaders are urging the Government NOT to introduce tougher lockdown measures here.
They fear that if the Government decides new restrictions are needed in the North, Ministers will also introduce the same measures to the West Midlands. That's because the Government has been criticised for introducing different restrictions across the country, with people saying it's too confusing, so they are looking at introducing a simpler local lockdown system where every place has the same rules.
In particular, Birmingham and West Midlands politicians fear that Health Secretary Matt Hancock could ban people from meeting anyone from a different household in pubs or restaurants - a move which they fear could devastate businesses which are already struggling.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Conservative MP Andrew Mitchell (Sutton Coldfield) told the Health Secretary that he backed Tory West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and Ian Ward, the Labour leader of Birmingham City Council, who both oppose tougher rules.
Mr Mitchell said: "Will he bear in mind later in this week that our highly effective mayor, Andy Street, the Labour leader of Birmingham City Council and I are all of one mind. together with Justin Varney, the excellent head of public health in Birmingham, that the current level of infection rates mean there should be no further changes this week."
Leaders in the North of England say their local lockdown restrictions aren't working
The leaders of city councils in Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle, and the Mayor of Liverpool, have written a joint letter to Matt Hancock complaining about their local lockdown restrictions.
They say the measures aren't working, and they want the power to introduce their own restrictions instead of having decisions made by central government.
The joint letter said: "We are extremely concerned about the sharp increase in new Covid-19 cases in the Core Cities and the national responses to these. The existing restrictions are not working, confusing for the public and some, like the 10pm rule, are counter-productive.
"Instead, local measures, developed jointly across police, council enforcement and public health services, should be deployed to address rising infection rates based on local knowledge. As major cities we can also work together to provide a degree of consistency regionally, reducing public confusion. We want to be clear however that we do not support further economic lockdowns."
Some scientists want a new full-blown national lockdown
Professor Calum Semple, who specialises in disease outbreaks, recommended a “circuit breaker” be considered on a national basis in a bid to slow the virus, rather than trying to reduce it at a later stage. This would be a full national lockdown, where people are barred from leaving their homes, which lasted around two weeks.
Speaking in a personal capacity, Prof Semple – a member of the Government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) – told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that “perhaps a circuit breaker a couple of weeks ago would have been a really good idea”.
He added: “It’s always easier to reduce an outbreak at the earlier stage than to let it run and then try to reduce it at a later stage.
“So, yes, circuit breakers are certainly something we should be thinking about on a national basis.”


birminghammail--2020-10-07--15,000 home plan for Solihull clears latest hurdle

Controversial plans to build some 15,000 homes on sites across Solihull cleared another hurdle this week despite fears it is 'wanton destruction ' of greenbelt land .
Many of the proposed developments included in the blueprint for the next 16 years remain deeply unpopular with residents and opposition groups .
But Solihull 's ruling Conservative group has insisted that the council had to take a grip on the issue or else risk a `` free for all '' , with little to stop developers driving through larger schemes where they wanted them .
Senior Tories said it was time to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work in shaping the draft Local Plan .
But opposition groups were concerned the plan was missing key details , put undue strain on certain areas and that the final stages of the process lacked proper scrutiny .
A joint bid by Green , Lib Dem and Labour groups to extend the final public consultation - due to start this month -from six weeks to 12 was defeated .
And then , after a marathon debate which lasted more than three hours , the ruling group won the vote on putting the plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ian Courts , leader of Solihull Council , accused rival parties of trying to find an `` excuse '' to hold up the process .
`` If we do n't get on with this there is a risk that our housing needs could require up to , I do n't know , 50 per cent more than it is now .
And where will they go ?
`` We want to put our Solihull marker down here and now as to how we want development done .
Which is why we 've produced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Richard Holt , who chairs the planning committee , said that without a plan in place it would be far harder for councillors to oppose those developments they did n't think were right .
`` Our Achilles heel , the weakness we have , in spite of all of our strengths , is our failure to have a five-year supply of land , '' he said .
`` And if we do n't address this issue by the imposition of this plan , then developers will exploit this and their resources will enable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we will lose control . ''
But Cllr Steve Caudwell , leader of the Green Party group , argued what was on the table was incomplete and caused a number of concerns .
`` It 's not fair and it 's not friendly , either to our residents - who need to respond to it , and will bear its brunt - or to our environment , from which it unnecessarily takes swathes of irreplaceable green belt . ''
He said that with details missing on planned developments in the likes of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , near the NEC , it meant there was guesswork in how much green belt needed to be given up .
`` Once it is released , it can not be returned , '' he said .
The official opposition had also questioned why so much of the new housing would be concentrated in the Shirley area and what work had been done to assess the impact on local health services .
Cllr Ade Adeyemo , who leads the Lib Dem group , said he was deeply concerned that all 51 members would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was over .
It had been announced that , short of major changes being made to its contents , the draft would be submitted to an independent inspector later this year - following talks between the cabinet member and officers .
`` No-one is saying the future of Solihull should be left to chance , none of us want that and I think we are all agreed on that , '' said Cllr Adeyemo .
`` However we live in a democracy .
What we can not do is do all this work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then try and wave it through because we are in a hurry . ''
Earlier in the evening , several residents had made representations to the meeting to voice their fears .
Sheila Cooper , from countryside charity the CPRE , warned of `` wanton destruction '' at rural sites near Balsall Common and Dickens Heath .
`` Loss of connectivity between wildlife habitats causes a catastrophic inability to thrive due to the loss of genetic biodiversity which ultimately leads to species extinction , '' she said .
`` Our concerns encompass rural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sports-fields , increased flood risk due to boulder clay substrata and lack of pedestrian access to local facilities ; all impact the climate crisis . ''
While Jeanette McGarry , the owner of Berkswell Windmill , said building a major housing estate near the landmark would be a massive mistake .
`` It is in fact of international significance - there has been a mill on this site since the 10th century .
`` It is placed within the nationally important Meriden Gap , which is a migratory green belt allowing creatures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ north of England . ''
The Conservative administration had admitted some sites had been given up `` with regret '' , although they argued the housing planned near the windmill had been reduced .
A consultation is likely to begin in the coming weeks , although final dates are yet to be confirmed by council officers .

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Controversial plans to build some 15,000 homes on sites across Solihull cleared another hurdle this week, despite fears they will cause 'wanton destruction' of greenbelt land.
Many of the proposed developments included in the blueprint for the next 16 years remain deeply unpopular with residents and opposition groups.
But Solihull's ruling Conservative group has insisted that the council had to take a grip on the issue or else risk a "free for all", with little to stop developers driving through larger schemes where they wanted them.
Senior Tories said it was time to press ahead after some five years' work in shaping the draft Local Plan.
But opposition groups were concerned the plan was missing key details, put undue strain on certain areas and that the final stages of the process lacked proper scrutiny.
A joint bid by Green, Lib Dem and Labour groups to extend the final public consultation - due to start this month -from six weeks to 12 was defeated.
And then, after a marathon debate which lasted more than three hours, the ruling group won the vote on putting the plan to residents one last time.
Cllr Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council, accused rival parties of trying to find an "excuse" to hold up the process.
"If we don't get on with this there is a risk that our housing needs could require up to, I don't know, 50 per cent more than it is now. And where will they go?
"We want to put our Solihull marker down here and now as to how we want development done. Which is why we've produced it in this way."
Cllr Richard Holt, who chairs the planning committee, said that without a plan in place it would be far harder for councillors to oppose those developments they didn't think were right.
"Our Achilles heel, the weakness we have, in spite of all of our strengths, is our failure to have a five-year supply of land," he said.
"And if we don't address this issue by the imposition of this plan, then developers will exploit this and their resources will enable them to take our decisions to appeal and we will lose control."
But Cllr Steve Caudwell, leader of the Green Party group, argued what was on the table was incomplete and caused a number of concerns.
(Image: Solihull Council)
"It's not fair and it's not friendly, either to our residents - who need to respond to it, and will bear its brunt - or to our environment, from which it unnecessarily takes swathes of irreplaceable green belt."
He said that with details missing on planned developments in the likes of Solihull town centre and at Arden Cross, near the NEC, it meant there was guesswork in how much green belt needed to be given up.
"Once it is released, it cannot be returned," he said.
The official opposition had also questioned why so much of the new housing would be concentrated in the Shirley area and what work had been done to assess the impact on local health services.
Cllr Ade Adeyemo, who leads the Lib Dem group, said he was deeply concerned that all 51 members wouldn't get another say once the consultation was over.
It had been announced that, short of major changes being made to its contents, the draft would be submitted to an independent inspector later this year - following talks between the cabinet member and officers.
"No-one is saying the future of Solihull should be left to chance, none of us want that and I think we are all agreed on that," said Cllr Adeyemo.
"However we live in a democracy. What we cannot do is do all this work, get to the final bit and then try and wave it through because we are in a hurry."
Earlier in the evening, several residents had made representations to the meeting to voice their fears.
Sheila Cooper, from countryside charity the CPRE, warned of "wanton destruction" at rural sites near Balsall Common and Dickens Heath.
"Loss of connectivity between wildlife habitats causes a catastrophic inability to thrive due to the loss of genetic biodiversity which ultimately leads to species extinction," she said.
"Our concerns encompass rural road congestion, inadequate parking, loss of sports-fields, increased flood risk due to boulder clay substrata and lack of pedestrian access to local facilities; all impact the climate crisis."
While Jeanette McGarry, the owner of Berkswell Windmill, said building a major housing estate near the landmark would be a massive mistake.
"It is in fact of international significance - there has been a mill on this site since the 10th century.
"It is placed within the nationally important Meriden Gap, which is a migratory green belt allowing creatures to travel from the south to the north of England."
The Conservative administration had admitted some sites had been given up "with regret", although they argued the housing planned near the windmill had been reduced.
A consultation is likely to begin in the coming weeks, although final dates are yet to be confirmed by council officers.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Body in boot murder investigation reopened as new lead emerges after 18 years

Detectives say 'significant new information ' could lead them to the killers of a man found dead in a burnt-out car almost 20 years ago .
Officers have reopened the murder investigation into the death of George Tweedie , who was discovered in the boot of a fire-damaged car in the Peak District in 2002 .
A scrap-metal dealer made the grim discovery when the vehicle was collected for the crusher .
Mr Tweedie , aged 26 and from Bedworth , died after a blow to the head from what was believed to be a blunt instrument .
Three people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice in connection with the death and served prison sentences .
But nobody has ever been convicted of killing Mr Tweedie .
Now Warwickshire Police 's Major Investigation Unit has reopened its investigation after a 'significant new lead ' emerged .
And detectives are appealing to the public for help .
Det Insp Teresa McKenna said : “ As with all cold cases , we have kept this investigation under review .
Now we have a significant new lead and have taken the decision to reopen it .
“ Many people were spoken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we believe there may be evidence that was not disclosed to detectives .
“ Nobody has ever been brought to justice for Mr Tweedie ’ s death and his family have had to live with this for 18 years .
For their sake , I would urge anyone with information that could help with our investigation , no matter how small , to make contact with us .
Your information could be the missing piece of the jigsaw.
” Anyone with information is urged to contact Warwickshire Police on 101 .
Alternatively , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .

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Detectives say 'significant new information' could lead them to the killers of a man found dead in a burnt-out car almost 20 years ago.
Officers have reopened the murder investigation into the death of George Tweedie, who was discovered in the boot of a fire-damaged car in the Peak District in 2002.
A scrap-metal dealer made the grim discovery when the vehicle was collected for the crusher.
Mr Tweedie, aged 26 and from Bedworth, died after a blow to the head from what was believed to be a blunt instrument.
Three people were convicted of perverting the course of justice in connection with the death and served prison sentences. But nobody has ever been convicted of killing Mr Tweedie.
Now Warwickshire Police's Major Investigation Unit has reopened its investigation after a 'significant new lead' emerged.
And detectives are appealing to the public for help.
Det Insp Teresa McKenna said: “As with all cold cases, we have kept this investigation under review. Now we have a significant new lead and have taken the decision to reopen it.
“Many people were spoken to as part of this investigation but we believe there may be evidence that was not disclosed to detectives.
“Nobody has ever been brought to justice for Mr Tweedie’s death and his family have had to live with this for 18 years. For their sake, I would urge anyone with information that could help with our investigation, no matter how small, to make contact with us. Your information could be the missing piece of the jigsaw.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Warwickshire Police on 101. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Tesco announces changes to every store in country

Tesco shoppers have been issued with some key announcements from Britain 's biggest grocer this week .
Tesco operates stores across Birmingham and throughout the West Midlands - from city centre Metro and Express stores to larger supermarkets further afield .
And as the coronavirus crisis continues , Tesco announced it will be changing its stores - and urged customers become accustomed and aware of the changes .
On its website , Tesco announced changes which include staff at the entrances of larger stores to `` remind customers about the safety measures in place , including the legal requirement to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes include a limit on the number of shoppers allowed to enter shops up and down the country .
Hand sanitisers , Tesco also states , will be placed strategically around stores .
The sanitising stations are for customers and staff , as well as extra cleaning products to wipe down your trolley or basket .
Tesco will introduce directional floor markings and new signs to create a safe flow of movement around the store , it confirmed in a statement .
And new floor markings will help you to keep a safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while Tesco is installing protective screens at its checkouts .
Separate entrances and exits will be created , to ensure social distancing is adhered to , with customers still urged to use cashless payment methods wherever possible .
Customers are also urged by the shop retailer to conduct their trips alone where possible .
`` Please avoid shopping during Tesco 's dedicated times for vulnerable and elderly people , '' the chain adds .
The announcements from Tesco come as rumours of a second national lockdown swirl , with Sage experts warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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Tesco shoppers have been issued with some key announcements from Britain's biggest grocer this week.
Tesco operates stores across Birmingham and throughout the West Midlands - from city centre Metro and Express stores to larger supermarkets further afield.
And as the coronavirus crisis continues, Tesco announced it will be changing its stores - and urged customers become accustomed and aware of the changes.
On its website, Tesco announced changes which include staff at the entrances of larger stores to "remind customers about the safety measures in place, including the legal requirement to wear a face covering."
Other changes include a limit on the number of shoppers allowed to enter shops up and down the country.
Hand sanitisers, Tesco also states, will be placed strategically around stores.
The sanitising stations are for customers and staff, as well as extra cleaning products to wipe down your trolley or basket.
Tesco will introduce directional floor markings and new signs to create a safe flow of movement around the store, it confirmed in a statement.
And new floor markings will help you to keep a safe distance from others while waiting to pay, while Tesco is installing protective screens at its checkouts.
Separate entrances and exits will be created, to ensure social distancing is adhered to, with customers still urged to use cashless payment methods wherever possible.
Customers are also urged by the shop retailer to conduct their trips alone where possible.
"Please avoid shopping during Tesco's dedicated times for vulnerable and elderly people," the chain adds.
The announcements from Tesco come as rumours of a second national lockdown swirl, with Sage experts warning enhanced measures nationally are "inevitable."


birminghammail--2020-10-07--More HS2 airport capacity planned as part of latest phase of development

Extra capacity at Manchester Airport is among the latest proposals to boost connections between the high-speed railway and Northern Powerhouse Rail .
HS2 Ltd has launched a public consultation on plans to increase the number of HS2 platforms to be built at Manchester Airport from two to four , and at Manchester Piccadilly from four to six .
The consultation is also considering adding an extra Metrolink stop at the airport .
It has been launched following recommendations from the Government-commissioned Oakervee Review , which recommended that the development of HS2 should be better integrated with other schemes .
Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rail links across the Pennines .
HS2 minister Andrew Stephenson said : “ HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail are an integral part of this country ’ s future rail network , vital for improving connections between our biggest cities and regions , boosting jobs and kick-starting economic growth as we build back better .
“ This consultation will ensure passengers and business have their say in delivering a rail network that meets their needs , providing better journeys across the Midlands and the North as quickly as possible.
” Leonie Dubois , HS2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : `` Our latest consultation demonstrates that we ’ re a step closer to extending Britain ’ s new railway from Crewe to Manchester , improving connectivity to the North and delivering on the vision for a cleaner , greener transport network .
“ Local communities have an important role to play in informing the final design of the railway and I encourage them to take the time to respond to these proposals ” .
The public consultation is set to be completed in December .

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Extra capacity at Manchester Airport is among the latest proposals to boost connections between the high-speed railway and Northern Powerhouse Rail.
HS2 Ltd has launched a public consultation on plans to increase the number of HS2 platforms to be built at Manchester Airport from two to four, and at Manchester Piccadilly from four to six.
The consultation is also considering adding an extra Metrolink stop at the airport.
It has been launched following recommendations from the Government-commissioned Oakervee Review, which recommended that the development of HS2 should be better integrated with other schemes.
Northern Powerhouse Rail is a project to improve rail links across the Pennines.
HS2 minister Andrew Stephenson said: “HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail are an integral part of this country’s future rail network, vital for improving connections between our biggest cities and regions, boosting jobs and kick-starting economic growth as we build back better.
“This consultation will ensure passengers and business have their say in delivering a rail network that meets their needs, providing better journeys across the Midlands and the North as quickly as possible.”
Leonie Dubois, HS2’s Head of Consultation and Engagement, said: "Our latest consultation demonstrates that we’re a step closer to extending Britain’s new railway from Crewe to Manchester, improving connectivity to the North and delivering on the vision for a cleaner, greener transport network .
“Local communities have an important role to play in informing the final design of the railway and I encourage them to take the time to respond to these proposals”.
The public consultation is set to be completed in December.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Best value autumn holiday spot named - how to get a bargain break

Madeira has been named as the ‘ best value ’ autumn sun holiday island and it is one of the few destinations still on the UK 's safe travel corridor list .
The new Islands in the Sun Barometer released by the Post Office Travel Money , has revealed that the destination is the cheapest option for meals , drinks and other tourist items , with an average daily cost of £65.53 .
Purchasing every-day items such as a cup of coffee , sun cream and an evening meal is much cheaper in Madeira than in eight other European and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cost of a getaway .
Tour operator and airline Jet2 has added nine extra services to the Portuguese Atlantic island to meet extra demand .
It has added extra services to Madeira from Birmingham , Glasgow , Manchester and Newcastle during October and November .
The resort also enjoys direct flights from Edinburgh , East Midlands , Leeds Bradford , and London Stansted .
Here are some of the best-value Jet2 deals available this autumn , including 22kg baggage and transfers .
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa , 7 nights bed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £379 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Orca Praia , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 23 November .
Price : £369 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 26 October .
Price : £389 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Orca Praia , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 23 November .
Price : £359 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa , 7 nights bed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £399 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Orca Praia , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 30 November .
Price : £369 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 23 October .
Price : £369 per person based on 2 sharing .
,3 star Hotel Orca Praia , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 27 November .
Price : £359 per person based on 2 sharing .
Hotel Dorisol Mimosa , 7 nights bed and breakfast on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person based on 2 sharing .
3+ star Jardins d'Ajuda Suite Hotel , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 15 November .
Price : £369 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Orca Praia , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 30 October .
Price : £399 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Orca Praia , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 13 November .
Price : £359 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa , 7 nights bed and breakfast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per person based on 2 sharing .
3+ star Jardins d'Ajuda Suite Hotel , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 22 November .
Price : £359 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa , 7 nights bed and breakfast on 19 October .
Price : £379 per person based on 2 sharing .
3 star Hotel Orca Praia , 7 nights bed and breakfast from 27 November .
Price : £359 per person based on 2 sharing .

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Madeira has been named as the ‘best value’ autumn sun holiday island and it is one of the few destinations still on the UK's safe travel corridor list.
The new Islands in the Sun Barometer released by the Post Office Travel Money, has revealed that the destination is the cheapest option for meals, drinks and other tourist items, with an average daily cost of £65.53.
Purchasing every-day items such as a cup of coffee, sun cream and an evening meal is much cheaper in Madeira than in eight other European and Caribbean holiday islands, helping to reduce the cost of a getaway.
Tour operator and airline Jet2 has added nine extra services to the Portuguese Atlantic island to meet extra demand.
It has added extra services to Madeira from Birmingham, Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle during October and November.
The resort also enjoys direct flights from Edinburgh, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, and London Stansted.
Here are some of the best-value Jet2 deals available this autumn, including 22kg baggage and transfers.
Birmingham
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 23 October. Price: £379 per person based on 2 sharing.
3 star Hotel Orca Praia, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 23 November. Price: £369 per person based on 2 sharing.
East Midlands Airport
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 26 October.
Price: £389 per person based on 2 sharing.
3 star Hotel Orca Praia, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 23 November.
Price: £359 per person based on 2 sharing.
(Image: visitportugal.com)
Edinburgh Airport
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 26 October. Price: £399 per person based on 2 sharing.
3 star Hotel Orca Praia, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 30 November.
Price: £369 per person based on 2 sharing.
Glasgow Airport
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 23 October. Price: £369 per person based on 2 sharing.
,3 star Hotel Orca Praia, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 27 November. Price: £359 per person based on 2 sharing.
Leeds Bradford Airport
Hotel Dorisol Mimosa, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 25 October.
Price: £429 per person based on 2 sharing.
3+ star Jardins d'Ajuda Suite Hotel, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 15 November.
Price: £369 per person based on 2 sharing.
Manchester Airport
3 star Hotel Orca Praia, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 30 October.
Price: £399 per person based on 2 sharing.
3 star Hotel Orca Praia, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 13 November.
Price: £359 per person based on 2 sharing.
Newcastle Airport
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 22 October.
Price: £399 per person based on 2 sharing.
3+ star Jardins d'Ajuda Suite Hotel, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 22 November.
Price: £359 per person based on 2 sharing.
London Stansted Airport
3 star Hotel Dorisol Mimosa, 7 nights bed and breakfast on 19 October.
Price: £379 per person based on 2 sharing.
3 star Hotel Orca Praia, 7 nights bed and breakfast from 27 November.
Price: £359 per person based on 2 sharing.
For further information visit www.jet2holidays.com.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--CEO reveals 'doomsday' plan as West Brom continue Grant talks

The chief executive of Huddersfield Town has revealed that the club are preparing for ‘ doomsday ’ , as the date by which West Brom must conclude their Karlan Grant pursuit draws closer .
The Terriers sit down in 19th place after collecting four points from their opening four matches in the new Championship season , something they ’ ve managed without last season ’ s top scorer Grant , who has been training alone .
Away from the pitch , Town - like most clubs in the entire English football ladder - are feeling the pinch without supporters , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Yorkshire outfit are preparing for a campaign that will be played out entirely behind closed doors , something that will cost them and their rivals millions of pounds in lost revenue .
Why should you sign up ?
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You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store It makes the case of Grant all the more crucial ; should Albion and Town come to an agreement before next Friday ’ s deadline , it could bank the club a sizeable fee up front with the likelihood of instalments to follow in the months and years to come .
Albion , who themselves reckon a season in the top flight without supporters will cost them around £10m , haven ’ t got large amounts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working on a deal that Huddersfield will agree to .
CEO Mark Devlin , who hopes that finances at the very top of the Premier League will filter down through the divisions to keep English football going , admits that the outlook is bleak at the John Smith ’ s Stadium and , while Grant is an asset , they ’ re looking to shift players before Friday .
“ We ’ ve now moved to almost a doomsday scenario , ” Devlin told BBC 's Dan Roan .
“ We ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at all in [ this season ] .
“ I think that the Premier League and government can get their heads together and come up with a sensible , financial package to keep this pyramid going .
“ There are clubs creaking at the edges , now .
“ The current situation means we ’ ll be approximately £3-4m worse off this season than had we had crowds and our corporate partners here .
“ That ’ s a huge hole even for a club that ’ s benefitting from parachute payments and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business .
“ Huddersfield were in the Premier League for two years and they invested really heavily both in transfer fees and in wages trying to stay in the Premier League and compete with Premier League clubs .
“ We don ’ t just get a bucket of £80m .
A lot of that money has been spent already or invested in transfer fees or significant salaries .
We ’ re back to the point of trying to offload players in a transfer market that ’ s soft.
” You can hear the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Town 's stance on Grant by clicking here .

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The chief executive of Huddersfield Town has revealed that the club are preparing for ‘doomsday’, as the date by which West Brom must conclude their Karlan Grant pursuit draws closer.
The Terriers sit down in 19th place after collecting four points from their opening four matches in the new Championship season, something they’ve managed without last season’s top scorer Grant, who has been training alone.
Away from the pitch, Town - like most clubs in the entire English football ladder - are feeling the pinch without supporters, a situation caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The Yorkshire outfit are preparing for a campaign that will be played out entirely behind closed doors, something that will cost them and their rivals millions of pounds in lost revenue.
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 .
It makes the case of Grant all the more crucial; should Albion and Town come to an agreement before next Friday’s deadline, it could bank the club a sizeable fee up front with the likelihood of instalments to follow in the months and years to come.
Albion, who themselves reckon a season in the top flight without supporters will cost them around £10m, haven’t got large amounts of cash to throw about and are still working on a deal that Huddersfield will agree to.
CEO Mark Devlin, who hopes that finances at the very top of the Premier League will filter down through the divisions to keep English football going, admits that the outlook is bleak at the John Smith’s Stadium and, while Grant is an asset, they’re looking to shift players before Friday.
“We’ve now moved to almost a doomsday scenario,” Devlin told BBC's Dan Roan. “We’re budgeting now to not have any fans at all in [this season].
“I think that the Premier League and government can get their heads together and come up with a sensible, financial package to keep this pyramid going.
“There are clubs creaking at the edges, now.
“The current situation means we’ll be approximately £3-4m worse off this season than had we had crowds and our corporate partners here.
poll loading Where will Albion finish in the Premier League this season? 11000+ VOTES SO FAR 1st - 6th 7th - 12th 13th - 17th Relegation zone
“That’s a huge hole even for a club that’s benefitting from parachute payments and has effects right the way across the business.
“Huddersfield were in the Premier League for two years and they invested really heavily both in transfer fees and in wages trying to stay in the Premier League and compete with Premier League clubs.
“We don’t just get a bucket of £80m. A lot of that money has been spent already or invested in transfer fees or significant salaries. We’re back to the point of trying to offload players in a transfer market that’s soft.”
You can hear the YorkshireLive analysis of the above comments and Town's stance on Grant by clicking here.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Paedo ex-churchman jailed for child sex offences

A paedophile former church minister from Worcestershire has been jailed for a string of sex offences involving young children .
Robert Glover , 73 , from Great Western Way in Stourport-on-Severn , was found guilty of raping a child under 13 , assault by penetration of a child under 13 , two counts of indecent assault of a child under 16 and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity after a two-week trial at Worcester Crown Court .
The former church minister was jailed for 16 years and was ordered to register as a sex offender for life .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the victims coming forward and speaking to them to give evidence against Glover .
Det Con Melissa Jones said : `` I would like to pay tribute to the bravery of the victims in coming forward and speaking to police .
I hope this gives them some resolution and feeling of justice having been done .
“ I also hope this conviction will provide reassurance to other victims of sexual offences , giving them the confidence to report their ordeal in the knowledge that they will be listened to and supported .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their power to bring offenders to justice .
`` If anyone has been affected by this case then I encourage them to come forward and make a report to police . ''
Anyone who is a victim of any sexual assault and feels they may need support can contact West Mercia 's Victim Advice Line .
The force said the line is a free , independent and confidential support service .
People can call 0800 952 3000 or visit www.victimadviceline.org.uk and do not have to have reported the offence to the police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this , can phone the police non-emergency number 101 ( always call 999 in an emergency ) .
Or anyone wanting to give information anonymously - without leaving their name or identifying details - can do so by phoning the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .
Crimestoppers also has an anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

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A paedophile former church minister from Worcestershire has been jailed for a string of sex offences involving young children.
Robert Glover, 73, from Great Western Way in Stourport-on-Severn, was found guilty of raping a child under 13, assault by penetration of a child under 13, two counts of indecent assault of a child under 16 and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity after a two-week trial at Worcester Crown Court.
The former church minister was jailed for 16 years and was ordered to register as a sex offender for life.
West Mercia Police praised the courage of the victims coming forward and speaking to them to give evidence against Glover.
Det Con Melissa Jones said: "I would like to pay tribute to the bravery of the victims in coming forward and speaking to police. I hope this gives them some resolution and feeling of justice having been done.
“I also hope this conviction will provide reassurance to other victims of sexual offences, giving them the confidence to report their ordeal in the knowledge that they will be listened to and supported.
“Police will always investigate and do everything in their power to bring offenders to justice.
"If anyone has been affected by this case then I encourage them to come forward and make a report to police."
Anyone who is a victim of any sexual assault and feels they may need support can contact West Mercia's Victim Advice Line. The force said the line is a free, independent and confidential support service.
People can call 0800 952 3000 or visit www.victimadviceline.org.uk and do not have to have reported the offence to the police.
Anyone wanting to report a crime like this, can phone the police non-emergency number 101 (always call 999 in an emergency).
Or anyone wanting to give information anonymously - without leaving their name or identifying details - can do so by phoning the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Crimestoppers also has an anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Dr Hilary's alarming herd immunity warning amid new national lockdown backlash

Dr Hilary Jones has issued an alarming warning over calls for the UK to adopt a 'herd immunity ' strategy amid a rise in Covid cases .
As the rate of cases surges in the coronavirus pandemic , ITV star Dr Hilary was on daytime TV favourite Lorraine on Wednesday October 7 .
He explained on Lorraine on Wednesday : `` We 're still trying to cope with the virus , and we 're seeing a rise in hospitalisations , and an increase in mortality as a result of that .
`` Some experts are saying we can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t got a vaccine and it might be some time before we get one .
`` So what about this policy of herd immunity and protecting the more vulnerable in society , the over 60s and those with pre-existing conditions . ''
He added : `` Let 's let the young go out there and keep the economy going .
Let them socialise , go to the pub restaurants , the cinema , the theatre , what have you .
`` Let them work normally and let 's have focused protection for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying this is age relate apartheid , you 're condemning a huge section of society over a certain age or with certain conditions to an abnormal existence , effectively locking them up so the young and fit can carry on .
`` Now I think there are a lot of dangers , not everyone has signed this of course , many people are saying be very careful . ''
He added : `` I suspect this declaration was drawn up a couple of weeks ago , as to get all those signatures takes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't have the kind of figures we 're seeing now , the rising cases , more people in hospital , more people are dying , and maybe some are thinking , 'hmm , maybe not such a good idea ' .
`` We do n't even know if herd immunity will exist , we never got herd immunity to measles before vaccination .
`` So bearing in mind that younger women are getting Covid statistically more often now , and we have long Covid symptomatology where people are unwell for many , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they 've only had mild to moderate symptoms , you have to be very careful about saying 'just let 's get on with it , let 's not bother with social distancing , let the millions of young people get on with it ' . ''
He continued : `` What if hospitals are swamped by that policy , do we say it was just an experiment ?
We did n't mean it , we ca n't do that now ?
`` I think we have to live with the virus certainly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't overwhelm the NHS and have too many people who are sick . ''

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Dr Hilary Jones has issued an alarming warning over calls for the UK to adopt a 'herd immunity' strategy amid a rise in Covid cases.
As the rate of cases surges in the coronavirus pandemic, ITV star Dr Hilary was on daytime TV favourite Lorraine on Wednesday October 7.
He explained on Lorraine on Wednesday: "We're still trying to cope with the virus, and we're seeing a rise in hospitalisations, and an increase in mortality as a result of that.
"Some experts are saying we can’t treat this effectively yet, we haven’t got a vaccine and it might be some time before we get one.
"So what about this policy of herd immunity and protecting the more vulnerable in society, the over 60s and those with pre-existing conditions."
He added: "Let's let the young go out there and keep the economy going. Let them socialise, go to the pub restaurants, the cinema, the theatre, what have you.
"Let them work normally and let's have focused protection for everyone else.
"Some people are saying this is age relate apartheid, you're condemning a huge section of society over a certain age or with certain conditions to an abnormal existence, effectively locking them up so the young and fit can carry on.
"Now I think there are a lot of dangers, not everyone has signed this of course, many people are saying be very careful."
He added: "I suspect this declaration was drawn up a couple of weeks ago, as to get all those signatures takes time.
"Two weeks ago we didn't have the kind of figures we're seeing now, the rising cases, more people in hospital, more people are dying, and maybe some are thinking, 'hmm, maybe not such a good idea'.
"We don't even know if herd immunity will exist, we never got herd immunity to measles before vaccination.
"So bearing in mind that younger women are getting Covid statistically more often now, and we have long Covid symptomatology where people are unwell for many, many weeks or months afterwards, even if they've only had mild to moderate symptoms, you have to be very careful about saying 'just let's get on with it, let's not bother with social distancing, let the millions of young people get on with it'."
He continued: "What if hospitals are swamped by that policy, do we say it was just an experiment? We didn't mean it, we can't do that now?
"I think we have to live with the virus certainly, but in measured ways so we don't overwhelm the NHS and have too many people who are sick."


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Three Birmingham men arrested after paramedics swoop on off-licence

A trio from Birmingham have been arrested after an 'incident ' at an off-licence .
Police say hundreds of pounds of cigarettes were taken using suspected cloned cards during the incident .
The incident unfolded in North Staffordshire , on Hereford Avenue , Clayton , yesterday ( Tuesday October 6 ) .
A man who confronted the suspects was treated by paramedics after confronting the suspects , who were all from Birmingham .
The three men who were arrested remain in custody and a police investigation into the incident , which took place at around 5pm , is ongoing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Three men from Birmingham have been arrested in connection with a reported theft and assault in Newcastle .
`` It 's after officers were alerted to an incident taking place at an off-licence on Hereford Avenue , Clayton shortly before 5pm last night .
`` It 's believed hundreds of pounds worth of cigarettes were taken using suspected cloned cards .
`` The men - aged 25 , 28 and 31 - remain in police custody .
A man was treated by paramedics at the scene having confronted the suspects .
`` All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including mobile phones and cash , were seized by officers .
`` Enquiries - including the assessment of CCTV - are underway . ''

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A trio from Birmingham have been arrested after an 'incident' at an off-licence.
Police say hundreds of pounds of cigarettes were taken using suspected cloned cards during the incident.
The incident unfolded in North Staffordshire, on Hereford Avenue, Clayton, yesterday (Tuesday October 6).
A man who confronted the suspects was treated by paramedics after confronting the suspects, who were all from Birmingham.
The three men who were arrested remain in custody and a police investigation into the incident, which took place at around 5pm, is ongoing.
A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "Three men from Birmingham have been arrested in connection with a reported theft and assault in Newcastle.
"It's after officers were alerted to an incident taking place at an off-licence on Hereford Avenue, Clayton shortly before 5pm last night.
"It's believed hundreds of pounds worth of cigarettes were taken using suspected cloned cards.
"The men - aged 25, 28 and 31 - remain in police custody. A man was treated by paramedics at the scene having confronted the suspects.
"All the stolen goods were recovered and items, including mobile phones and cash, were seized by officers.
"Enquiries - including the assessment of CCTV - are underway."


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Coronavirus rates could get as bad as March by end of month

The rate of coronavirus cases could get as bad as the height of the pandemic in March by the end of this month .
That is the warning from SAGE , the group of experts responsible for advising the government .
They warn Covid-19 is threatening to get out of control again , with experts warning a second national lockdown is now `` inevitable '' .
Professors from Sage briefed BBC 's Newsnight and ITV 's Good Morning Britain as the rate of cases continues to rise .
Localised lockdown measures and enhanced restrictions in the Midlands and north of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inevitable '' .
Experts say it is clear they are not working - and they are calling for increased measures nationwide .
There are now 125.7 cases per 100,000 people across the UK .
And 14,542 positive results were confirmed yesterday - up more than 2,000 on the day before .
In Birmingham , the case rate is above 100 , with similar rates in Sandwell , Solihull , Stafford and Wolverhampton .
SAGE member Prof Callum Semple called for a `` circuit breaker '' to be considered .
This would not impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers work from home , households are banned from mixing , and transport strictly limited to necessary usage .
Prof Stephen Reicher , who sits on SAGE 's behavioural science sub-group , told the BBC : `` If you look at the figures at the moment , the level of infections is about 10 % of what it was at the peak in March .
`` But at the rate of doubling , it would probably be at the same as the peak in March by the end of October .
`` So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ window of opportunity to do something .
`` If we squander that window of opportunity then we really are in trouble , then we really would be talking about going back to March in terms of full lockdown measures .
`` But we ’ re not talking about that now - we ’ ve got time . ''

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The rate of coronavirus cases could get as bad as the height of the pandemic in March by the end of this month.
That is the warning from SAGE, the group of experts responsible for advising the government.
They warn Covid-19 is threatening to get out of control again, with experts warning a second national lockdown is now "inevitable".
Professors from Sage briefed BBC's Newsnight and ITV's Good Morning Britain as the rate of cases continues to rise.
Localised lockdown measures and enhanced restrictions in the Midlands and north of England have been branded "delaying the inevitable".
Experts say it is clear they are not working - and they are calling for increased measures nationwide.
There are now 125.7 cases per 100,000 people across the UK. And 14,542 positive results were confirmed yesterday - up more than 2,000 on the day before.
In Birmingham, the case rate is above 100, with similar rates in Sandwell, Solihull, Stafford and Wolverhampton.
SAGE member Prof Callum Semple called for a "circuit breaker" to be considered.
This would not impact the education sector - but would mean workers work from home, households are banned from mixing, and transport strictly limited to necessary usage.
Prof Stephen Reicher, who sits on SAGE's behavioural science sub-group, told the BBC: "If you look at the figures at the moment, the level of infections is about 10% of what it was at the peak in March.
"But at the rate of doubling, it would probably be at the same as the peak in March by the end of October.
"So the good news is we have a window of opportunity to do something.
"If we squander that window of opportunity then we really are in trouble, then we really would be talking about going back to March in terms of full lockdown measures.
"But we’re not talking about that now - we’ve got time."


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Two men on trial accused of murdering Julia Rawson - updates

Two men have gone on trial over the murder of missing Dudley woman Julia Rawson .
Nathan Maynard-Ellis , 30 @ @ @ @ @ Tipton , and David Leesley , 25 , of Dereton Close , Dudley , stand @ @ @ @ @ warehouse operative , who vanished on May 12 last year .
Her remains were found @ @ @ @ @ Tipton on June 12 , 2019 - a month after she was last seen alive @ @ @ @ @ Ms Rawson , who lived in Green Park Road , Kates Hill .
Maynard-Ellis has @ @ @ @ @ counts of rape against another woman plus one count of attempted rape and threats to @ @ @ @ @ being tried at Coventry Crown Court and is expected to last up to six weeks @

15:43
Maynard-Ellis said he had memory loss
Mr Khalil is now telling the jury what both defendants said during police interview when questioned over Ms Rawson’s disappearance.
During an interview on May 23, 2019, Maynard-Ellis stated that he was not the male on the CCTV with Ms Rawson and that on the night in question he was at home with his partner, Leesely.
The next day, he provided a prepared statement in which he said that there were occasions when he had suffered from memory loss; that he had had blackouts and that he sometimes had no recollection of events until they were described to him.
He claimed he did not recall being in the Bottle & Cork pub on the night that Julia went missing.
On May 26, 2019, he denied being the person in the CCTV in the Bottle & Cork pub with Julia.
He said the sofa and carpet were both previously damaged and needed changing – and he remembered vaguely going to Carpet Right with Leesley. However he denied asking for the carpet to be fitted urgently.
He accepted disposing of the sofa and carpet with the help of his mother. He accepted that most of the DVDs and books in the flat were his, but he claimed that they were there to help with his studies in criminology. He was shown the napkin that had been found in his bedroom with “Ju Ju” written on it – he said that he couldn’t remember how this got into the flat.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Panto ticket sales worth hundreds of thousands lost

Axeing Solihull 's biggest theatre show of the year could have cost a flagship venue thousands of pounds .
It was confirmed last month that the annual pantomime at The Core would not be taking place over Christmas .
There were originally hopes it could have been saved .
A sell-out run in a normal year would have netted more than a quarter of a million , based on the 13,104 punters paying an average of £20 a ticket .
Social distancing rules would have cut capacity at the council-run venue to 4,953 seats and the show would have made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell-out under current restrictions .
The decision not to stage Cinderella was announced amid concerns that the current situation would make it too difficult to perform a `` high-quality '' panto .
Organisers were also fearful that any production could be brought to an abrupt end if a cast or crew member went down with Covid-19 .
Aside from lost revenue , the council also paid an undisclosed sum to Little Wolf Entertainment - which has staged the Christmas show for the past couple of years .
In a statement , Morgan Brind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company directors , said : `` We hope our wonderful audiences will understand why we are taking the difficult decision to postpone Cinderella ’ s trip to the ball .
`` We ’ re passionate about delivering unforgettable family panto and it has become increasingly clear that we wouldn ’ t be able to safely present a show of our usual size and spectacle this season . ''
The panto had been the last hope of live theatre returning to The Core this year , with the remainder of the autumn programme having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venue has reopened the adjoining cafe and certain activities and workshops have resumed , but opening up the auditorium was deemed a step too far .
Currently there are some shows in the diary for after Christmas , the first of these being one-man play Old Herbaceous on January 22 .
Whether these are able to go-ahead will depend heavily on government restrictions and progress in combating coronavirus .
Nationwide , theatre has been one of the hardest hit industries , with the vast majority of venues remaining shut until 2021 .
Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are among others to have scrapped their panto - normally a lynchpin of the theatrical calendar .
Solihull 's MP Julian Knight , who chairs Parliament 's Digital , Culture , Media and Sport Committee , has been among those to warn of the pressures on the sector .
He welcomed a recent intervention by the Treasury but said `` it still leaves many hundreds of thousands of workers in events , arts and cultural parts of the economy with a grim future . ''
Many performers believe that the government has not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , one troupe - Heartbreak Productions - told the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) that Britain 's support package had been far less generous than what had been offered in the likes of Germany .

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Axeing Solihull's biggest theatre show of the year could have cost a flagship venue thousands of pounds.
It was confirmed last month that the annual pantomime at The Core would not be taking place over Christmas. There were originally hopes it could have been saved.
A sell-out run in a normal year would have netted more than a quarter of a million, based on the 13,104 punters paying an average of £20 a ticket.
Social distancing rules would have cut capacity at the council-run venue to 4,953 seats and the show would have made just over £99,000 had they managed to sell-out under current restrictions.
The decision not to stage Cinderella was announced amid concerns that the current situation would make it too difficult to perform a "high-quality" panto.
Organisers were also fearful that any production could be brought to an abrupt end if a cast or crew member went down with Covid-19.
Aside from lost revenue, the council also paid an undisclosed sum to Little Wolf Entertainment - which has staged the Christmas show for the past couple of years.
(Image: Local Democracy Reporter David Irwin)
In a statement, Morgan Brind and Alan Bowles, Little Wolf's company directors, said: "We hope our wonderful audiences will understand why we are taking the difficult decision to postpone Cinderella’s trip to the ball.
"We’re passionate about delivering unforgettable family panto and it has become increasingly clear that we wouldn’t be able to safely present a show of our usual size and spectacle this season."
The panto had been the last hope of live theatre returning to The Core this year, with the remainder of the autumn programme having already been cancelled.
The town centre venue has reopened the adjoining cafe and certain activities and workshops have resumed, but opening up the auditorium was deemed a step too far.
Currently there are some shows in the diary for after Christmas, the first of these being one-man play Old Herbaceous on January 22.
Whether these are able to go-ahead will depend heavily on government restrictions and progress in combating coronavirus.
Nationwide, theatre has been one of the hardest hit industries, with the vast majority of venues remaining shut until 2021.
Birmingham Hippodrome, Coventry Belgrade and Wolverhampton Grand are among others to have scrapped their panto - normally a lynchpin of the theatrical calendar.
Panto plans Cinderella has been postponed until 2021, with dates for next year's run to be confirmed in due course. Residents who would like a refund should call the box office on 0121 704 6962 or email thecoretheatre@solihull.gov.uk. The face-to-face counter remains closed.
Solihull's MP Julian Knight, who chairs Parliament's Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, has been among those to warn of the pressures on the sector.
He welcomed a recent intervention by the Treasury but said "it still leaves many hundreds of thousands of workers in events, arts and cultural parts of the economy with a grim future."
Many performers believe that the government has not provided enough assistance.
Over the summer, one troupe - Heartbreak Productions - told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that Britain's support package had been far less generous than what had been offered in the likes of Germany.


birminghammail--2020-10-07--Parents shamed  for shoddy parking outside school

Drivers have been shamed on social media for shoddy parking during the school run – as a major blitz on shocking driving begins .
West Midlands Police snapped several cars - including an Abarth 500 - in dodgy positions outside Peters Hill Primary School in Stourbridge on Tuesday , October 6 .
The force said three tickets were handed out at around 3.30pm .
They said : `` Three tickets issued outside Peters Hill Primary school yesterday afternoon .
Further tickets will be issued .
`` A child 's safety comes first , not the excuse of I 'm running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launched this week in a bid to make the streets outside schools safer for children , staff and parents .
The initiative will see police ask parents , teachers and residents living near schools to be their eyes and ears .
Police will invite people to send photos of dangerous parking to officers – who will then review the evidence before deciding whether to issue fixed penalty notices or take court action .
Examples of dangerous parking where action can be taken include parking on pedestrian crossings or school zig zag lines , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a manner which would prevent access for emergency services vehicles .
Blocking residents in by parking across driveways , and preventing access for pedestrians by parking across pavements can also be reported .
Coun Ruth Buttery , Dudley Council 's cabinet member for children 's services , said : `` We know increasing numbers of parents are driving their children to school at the moment as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic .
`` My concern is the safety of our children , and it is disappointing that despite several reminders we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dangerous parking on a daily basis outside our schools .
`` It is for this reason that we are introducing Operation Park Safe to the schools in our borough .
`` We would prefer for the police not to have to issue a single penalty notice .
But the warning is now there – if any person continues to park in this way then action will be taken . ''

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Drivers have been shamed on social media for shoddy parking during the school run – as a major blitz on shocking driving begins.
West Midlands Police snapped several cars - including an Abarth 500 - in dodgy positions outside Peters Hill Primary School in Stourbridge on Tuesday, October 6.
The force said three tickets were handed out at around 3.30pm.
They said: "Three tickets issued outside Peters Hill Primary school yesterday afternoon. Further tickets will be issued.
"A child's safety comes first, not the excuse of I'm running late."
Operation Park Safe was launched this week in a bid to make the streets outside schools safer for children, staff and parents.
The initiative will see police ask parents, teachers and residents living near schools to be their eyes and ears.
Police will invite people to send photos of dangerous parking to officers – who will then review the evidence before deciding whether to issue fixed penalty notices or take court action.
Examples of dangerous parking where action can be taken include parking on pedestrian crossings or school zig zag lines, as well as near to school entrances in a manner which would prevent access for emergency services vehicles.
Blocking residents in by parking across driveways, and preventing access for pedestrians by parking across pavements can also be reported.
Coun Ruth Buttery, Dudley Council's cabinet member for children's services, said: "We know increasing numbers of parents are driving their children to school at the moment as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
"My concern is the safety of our children, and it is disappointing that despite several reminders we continue to see lazy, inconsiderate and dangerous parking on a daily basis outside our schools.
"It is for this reason that we are introducing Operation Park Safe to the schools in our borough.
"We would prefer for the police not to have to issue a single penalty notice. But the warning is now there – if any person continues to park in this way then action will be taken."