birminghammail--2020-02-05--Go Fund Me appeal to save Birmingham St Patrick’s Parade 2020 - here's how you can help

Organisers of Birmingham 's annual St Patrick 's Parade are appealing for donations to save the 2020 event from being scrapped .
They need £20,000 to pay towards the £90,000 cost of this year 's festival including the traditional parade from Camp Hill to Digbeth .
A Go Fund Me page has been set up and at the time of writing has attracted 32 donations offering a total of £1,355 towards the target .
They include cash support from local bars The Ruin and The Anchor and from Birmingham Irish band The Father Teds .
It 's still a long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there 's just five weeks left before the planned date of Sunday March 15 - but organisers appear to be optimistic .
In a message on the fundraising page , they tell potential donors : `` The parade that we know and love costs over £90,000 .
With the loss of our headline sponsor , the future of the parade is in trouble and we need your support today more than ever .
`` Every year money is tight .
We always want to put on an event that 's worthy of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've always made it work and we hope with your support we will be able to continue the work of those that have gone before us .
`` With your help , we ’ re sure the Birmingham St Patrick 's Parade will continue for hundreds of years to come .
`` It 's up to us all to save the parade ! ''
Even if the £20,000 target of that appeal is met , it 's unclear where the rest of the £90,000 would come from .
In previous years , leftover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sponsorship contributed towards the amount needed .
A spokesperson for Kiely Bros , who were headline sponsors in 2017 , 2018 and 2019 , said : `` We feel that it is time for others to step up to the plate in terms of financial support . ''
Peter Connolly , chair of St Patrick ’ s Parade Board , earlier told Birmingham Live : `` This could be the last year of it .
It may not happen if we can not get another sponsor .
`` It 's quite last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shame if it did n't go ahead .
`` The cost of the event has been rocketing every year due to the things we are required to do by the city council , such as anti-terrorism measures , and we are doing our best to bring costs down and fighting with the council over some stuff that we say is completely unnecessary .
`` We are also looking at using different suppliers to keep costs down .
`` But without a headline sponsor there is quite a big hole to fill . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Birmingham 's Irish community .
Birmingham City Council has not provided a grant to the St Patrick 's celebrations or any other community events in the city since Government austerity measures forced it to make massive savings in 2015 .
Organisers need to pay for such things as 37 staffed road closures , an on-site field hospital , counter-terrorism measures , security , toilets , Digbeth-wide street cleaning before and after the event , bins and refuse removal , miles of barriers and licensing .
It 's also spent on artist and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , hiring a carnival artist to visit local schools , float hire , street decorations , insurance policies , advertising , producing the festival brochure and hospitality for VIP guests and dignitaries .
Mr Connolly added : `` We ca n't expect the same company to sponsor us forever .
`` There must be plenty of other businesses with a similar turnover that could get involved . ''
To donate to Birmingham 's St Patrick 's Festival and Parade , visit the Go Fund Me page here In addition , anyone interested in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ marketing team at sponsorship @ stpatricksbirmingham.com

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Organisers of Birmingham's annual St Patrick's Parade are appealing for donations to save the 2020 event from being scrapped.
They need £20,000 to pay towards the £90,000 cost of this year's festival including the traditional parade from Camp Hill to Digbeth.
A Go Fund Me page has been set up and at the time of writing has attracted 32 donations offering a total of £1,355 towards the target.
They include cash support from local bars The Ruin and The Anchor and from Birmingham Irish band The Father Teds.
It's still a long way off the total needed - and there's just five weeks left before the planned date of Sunday March 15 - but organisers appear to be optimistic.
In a message on the fundraising page, they tell potential donors: "The parade that we know and love costs over £90,000. With the loss of our headline sponsor, the future of the parade is in trouble and we need your support today more than ever.
"Every year money is tight. We always want to put on an event that's worthy of the city and the community,
"We've always made it work and we hope with your support we will be able to continue the work of those that have gone before us.
"With your help, we’re sure the Birmingham St Patrick's Parade will continue for hundreds of years to come.
"It's up to us all to save the parade!"
Even if the £20,000 target of that appeal is met, it's unclear where the rest of the £90,000 would come from.
In the past, leftover cash from previous years and additional fundraising and sponsorship contributed towards the amount needed.
A spokesperson for Kiely Bros, who were headline sponsors in 2017, 2018 and 2019, said: "We feel that it is time for others to step up to the plate in terms of financial support."
Peter Connolly, chair of St Patrick’s Parade Board, earlier told Birmingham Live: "This could be the last year of it. It may not happen if we cannot get another sponsor.
"It's quite last minute and it would be a real shame if it didn't go ahead.
"The cost of the event has been rocketing every year due to the things we are required to do by the city council, such as anti-terrorism measures, and we are doing our best to bring costs down and fighting with the council over some stuff that we say is completely unnecessary.
"We are also looking at using different suppliers to keep costs down.
"But without a headline sponsor there is quite a big hole to fill."
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The event is run entirely by volunteers in Birmingham's Irish community.
Birmingham City Council has not provided a grant to the St Patrick's celebrations or any other community events in the city since 2015 after Government austerity measures forced it to make massive savings.
Organisers need to pay for such things as 37 staffed road closures, an on-site field hospital, counter-terrorism measures, security, toilets, Digbeth-wide street cleaning before and after the event, bins and refuse removal, miles of barriers and licensing.
It's also spent on artist and band fees, staging and sound equipment, hiring a carnival artist to visit local schools, float hire, street decorations, insurance policies, advertising, producing the festival brochure and hospitality for VIP guests and dignitaries.
Mr Connolly added: "We can't expect the same company to sponsor us forever.
"There must be plenty of other businesses with a similar turnover that could get involved."
To donate to Birmingham's St Patrick's Festival and Parade, visit the Go Fund Me page here
In addition, anyone interested in sponsoring the event should contact the parade marketing team at sponsorship@stpatricksbirmingham.com


birminghammail--2020-02-05--'Bargain at £20m' - Fans go wild over Aston Villa transfer target

Aston Villa summer target Said Benrahma has caught the eye of Newcastle United and Leicester City , according to reports .
Benrahma played under Dean Smith for Brentford last season before the head coach 's arrival at Villa in October 2018 .
He finished last season with 11 goals and 17 assists for the Bees and has continued that form into this campaign , with eight goals and six assists for Thomas Frank 's side .
Benrahma hit a hat-trick in a 5-1 demolition of Hull City last time out , a result that moved Brentford up to fifth place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Sun say Brentford could see their key players depart for the Premier League should they fail to win promotion to the top flight .
Villa were linked with a £20m move for the Algerian but reports say £15m is the price either Newcastle or Leicester will have to pay to land Benrahma .
And Newcastle fans would love to see the winger at St James ' Park .
One said : `` Quality player 20 million would be a bargain . ''
`` I was watching him at the weekend against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talent I even said to myself he would n't look out of place at a Leicester or a Wolves , '' said a second .
`` If Newcastle had brains we 'd be all over this deal .
For me he would be a bargain even at £20m . ''
`` Buy their whole front three , and midfield , '' said another .
A final supporter added : `` He wo n't be going for that price ... probably in the top 3 players in the league they 'll want minimum 20m @ @

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Aston Villa summer target Said Benrahma has caught the eye of Newcastle United and Leicester City, according to reports.
Benrahma played under Dean Smith for Brentford last season before the head coach's arrival at Villa in October 2018.
He finished last season with 11 goals and 17 assists for the Bees and has continued that form into this campaign, with eight goals and six assists for Thomas Frank's side.
Benrahma hit a hat-trick in a 5-1 demolition of Hull City last time out, a result that moved Brentford up to fifth place and just five points off top spot.
(Image: Ashley Allen/Getty Images)
The Sun say Brentford could see their key players depart for the Premier League should they fail to win promotion to the top flight.
Villa were linked with a £20m move for the Algerian but reports say £15m is the price either Newcastle or Leicester will have to pay to land Benrahma.
And Newcastle fans would love to see the winger at St James' Park.
One said: "Quality player 20 million would be a bargain."
"I was watching him at the weekend against Hull and honestly he is such a talent I even said to myself he wouldn't look out of place at a Leicester or a Wolves," said a second. "If Newcastle had brains we'd be all over this deal. For me he would be a bargain even at £20m."
A third simply added: "Great talent!"
"Buy their whole front three, and midfield," said another.
A final supporter added: "He won't be going for that price... probably in the top 3 players in the league they'll want minimum 20m."


birminghammail--2020-02-05--Universal Credit sanctions - this is how much DWP can cut from your benefits

Universal Credit is a new welfare scheme that replaces six other benefits - and it comes with a set of rules .
Those who sign up for UC , or who find themselves moved on to it , must meet these conditions or they could find themselves penalised by the Department for Work and Pensions with reductions in their payments .
These penalties are known as sanctions .
Many people have complained of severe reductions in their benefits while on Universal Credit , sometimes leaving them with no money at all .
Back in August 2015 , there were 103 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month , but as more people move on to Universal Credit , numbers of penalties have gone up too .
By August 2016 , there were 461 sanctions being applied in Birmingham and a year later there were 917 people being sanctioned in the cty .
By August 2019 - the latest data we have on sanctions - there were 1,550 people being sanctioned in Birmingham .
It had peaked at more than 1,700 in April the same year .
So how exactly does it all work ?
What responsibilities come with Universal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are a number of activities you must carry out in order to receive your payment .
• None completing work search activities for up to 35 hours per week • None paying your own rent and other housing costs • None reporting changes in circumstances through your online account • None manage your payments and budget on a monthly basis .
You may be able to get an advance to help you manage until your first payment .
• None Working part-time and able to earn more ?
You ’ re required @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earnings When you claim Universal Credit you will need to complete and accept what is called a tailored commitment .
This is the DWP 's name for an agreement between you and the work coach that is based on your individual situation .
It states what you will need to do in order to receive your Universal Credit .
In most cases , this will be drawn up during a conversation between you and your work coach at your local jobcentre .
It sets out what you have agreed to do to prepare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to increase your earnings if you are already working .
It is based on your personal circumstances and will be reviewed and updated on an ongoing basis .
The DWP says that each time it is updated , you will need to accept a new commitment to keep receiving Universal Credit .
Are there any specific variations ?
Yes , the DWP has different rules depending if you are claiming Universal Credit as a couple , or have health problems , or are a carer for a disabled person or for children .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim Universal Credit as a couple , both of you will need to accept an individual commitment .
Your commitment may be affected if your partner starts work or their circumstances change .
If you are earning as much as your current circumstances allow , you wo n't be asked to increase your wages .
If you are able and available to work , the DWP expects you to do everything you reasonably can to give yourself the best chance of finding work .
It says `` preparing for and getting a job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' If you currently have limited capability for work , because of a short-term disability or health condition , you must prepare to get a job when your situation improves .
If your health problems are long-term or permanent and prevent you from working , you are n't expected to try to get a job .
If you care for a severely disabled person for at least 35 hours per week you will not be required to work and will be supported through Universal Credit .
If you are the main carer for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Universal Credit with conditions based on the age of the youngest child in your household .
So what happens if you do n't do all this ?
Your commitment will clearly state what will happen if you fail to meet one or more of your responsibilities .
You will receive reduced payments , known as a sanction , if you fail to meet one or more of your responsibilities and can ’ t give a good reason .
The DWP says it tells claimants how long the sanctions last .
If they ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the length of a sanction , how long the sanction lasts will depend on how quickly you do what they have asked .
What are the sanctions ?
There are four sanction levels : higher , medium , low and lowest .
The period of reduction will increase if you fail to meet requirements multiple times in each level .
A higher level sanction means you will suffer a reduction in your benefit for 91 days ( 13 weeks ) for your 'first offence ' and 182 days ( 26 weeks ) for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sanction in any 364 day period if you : • None have to meet the 'work search requirement ' and fail to apply for a particular job when told to do so • None have to meet the 'work availability requirement ' and you refuse a job offer • None leave work or reduce your hours of work , whether voluntarily or due to misconduct ( while claiming Universal Credit or just before your claim ) There are special rules for how long your sanction will last if it is for leaving work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be sanctioned for 28 days for your first medium level sanction in any 364 day period , or 91 days for your second if you have to meet either the : • None work search requirement – and you fail to take all reasonable actions to find paid work or increase your earnings from work • None work availability requirement – and you are not available to start work or attend interviews A low level sanction lasts until you do whatever you were sanctioned for failing to do , plus 7 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any 364 day period , 14 days for your second , or 28 days for your third if you fail to : • None attend or take part in a work-focused interview , and a lowest sanction level does not apply • None attend or take part in a training course • None take a specific action to get paid work , or to increase your earnings from work These apply if you only have to meet the work-focused interview requirement , and you fail to attend or take part in a work-focused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part in one .
How much is taken off your benefits ?
The standard allowance is the amount of Universal Credit that does not include extra money for things like children and housing costs .
It 's cut by up to 100 per cent ( meaning you get zero cash ) for a single claimant or up to 50 per cent for each member of a couple .
No other deductions will be made , except to pay back arrears of service charges , rent , gas or electricity .
The rate of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per cent of this amount if : • None You are aged 16 or 17 • None You are the carer of a child under one • None You are pregnant and have less than 11 weeks before the baby is due • None You have had a baby in the last 15 weeks ( including if the baby was stillborn ) • None You have had an adopted child placed with you in the last 52 weeks • None Your claimant commitment requires you to only attend work focused interviews As a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Universal Credit that are typically paid , these sanctions mean : A cut in UC of £8.20 per day for the period of the sanction , if you are single and under 25 ( and therefore usually receive £251.77 a month before any deductions ) A cut in UC of £10.40 per day for the period of the sanction , if you are single and over 25 ( and therefore usually receive £317.82 a month before any deductions ) A cut in UC of £6.40 per day for the period of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple and both aged under 25 but only one of you has been sanctioned ( and therefore usually receive £395.20 as a couple before any deductions ) A cut in UC of £8.20 per day for the period of the sanction , if you are in a couple and one or both of you is over 25 but only one of you has been sanctioned ( and therefore usually receive £498.89 as a couple before any deductions ) What if you think the sanction is wrong ?
If you do n't think you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DWP using the number on your documents and ask for the decision to be looked at again .
This is called a mandatory reconsideration .
You can also ask for this online .
It usually has to be done within a month of the original decision .
If the DWP does n't come to a different decision , you can then go to an independent tribunal .

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Universal Credit is a new welfare scheme that replaces six other benefits - and it comes with a set of rules.
Those who sign up for UC, or who find themselves moved on to it, must meet these conditions or they could find themselves penalised by the Department for Work and Pensions with reductions in their payments.
These penalties are known as sanctions. Many people have complained of severe reductions in their benefits while on Universal Credit, sometimes leaving them with no money at all.
Back in August 2015, there were 103 cases of sanctions in Birmingham during that month, but as more people move on to Universal Credit, numbers of penalties have gone up too.
By August 2016, there were 461 sanctions being applied in Birmingham and a year later there were 917 people being sanctioned in the cty.
By August 2019 - the latest data we have on sanctions - there were 1,550 people being sanctioned in Birmingham. It had peaked at more than 1,700 in April the same year.
So how exactly does it all work?
(Image: Richard Williams)
What responsibilities come with Universal Credit?
When you claim Universal Credit there are a number of activities you must carry out in order to receive your payment.
These activities are:
completing work search activities for up to 35 hours per week
completing a 'tailored commitment' with your work coach
paying your own rent and other housing costs
reporting changes in circumstances through your online account
manage your payments and budget on a monthly basis. You may be able to get an advance to help you manage until your first payment.
Working part-time and able to earn more? You’re required to seek additional work and increase your earnings
When you claim Universal Credit you will need to complete and accept what is called a tailored commitment.
This is the DWP's name for an agreement between you and the work coach that is based on your individual situation. It states what you will need to do in order to receive your Universal Credit.
In most cases, this will be drawn up during a conversation between you and your work coach at your local jobcentre.
It sets out what you have agreed to do to prepare for and look for work, or to increase your earnings if you are already working.
It is based on your personal circumstances and will be reviewed and updated on an ongoing basis.
The DWP says that each time it is updated, you will need to accept a new commitment to keep receiving Universal Credit.
Tell us YOUR Universal Credit stories Are you on Universal Credit, about to apply for it, or being moved across to it from existing benefits? We want to hear YOUR stories. We are especially interested in talking to an individual or family from the West Midlands to follow your Universal Credit experiences from the beginning. And if you're already on Universal Credit and having problems, we want to hear from you too. Be sure to include the location where you are based. Write to: david.bentley@reachplc.com newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk or send a message to our social media pages: Birmingham Live on Facebook Birmingham Live on Twitter
Are there any specific variations?
Yes, the DWP has different rules depending if you are claiming Universal Credit as a couple, or have health problems, or are a carer for a disabled person or for children. These are explained below:
If you claim Universal Credit as a couple, both of you will need to accept an individual commitment. Your commitment may be affected if your partner starts work or their circumstances change.
If you are earning as much as your current circumstances allow, you won't be asked to increase your wages.
If you are able and available to work, the DWP expects you to do everything you reasonably can to give yourself the best chance of finding work.
It says "preparing for and getting a job must be your full time focus."
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If you currently have limited capability for work, because of a short-term disability or health condition, you must prepare to get a job when your situation improves.
If your health problems are long-term or permanent and prevent you from working, you aren't expected to try to get a job.
If you care for a severely disabled person for at least 35 hours per week you will not be required to work and will be supported through Universal Credit.
If you are the main carer for a child, the DWP will provide Universal Credit with conditions based on the age of the youngest child in your household.
(Image: Getty Images)
So what happens if you don't do all this?
Your commitment will clearly state what will happen if you fail to meet one or more of your responsibilities.
You will receive reduced payments, known as a sanction, if you fail to meet one or more of your responsibilities and can’t give a good reason.
The DWP says it tells claimants how long the sanctions last. If they ask you to complete an activity to limit the length of a sanction, how long the sanction lasts will depend on how quickly you do what they have asked.
What are the sanctions?
There are four sanction levels: higher, medium, low and lowest. The period of reduction will increase if you fail to meet requirements multiple times in each level.
Higher level
A higher level sanction means you will suffer a reduction in your benefit for 91 days (13 weeks) for your 'first offence' and 182 days (26 weeks) for your second and each subsequent higher level sanction in any 364 day period if you:
have to meet the 'work search requirement' and fail to apply for a particular job when told to do so
have to meet the 'work availability requirement' and you refuse a job offer
leave work or reduce your hours of work, whether voluntarily or due to misconduct (while claiming Universal Credit or just before your claim)
There are special rules for how long your sanction will last if it is for leaving work before you claimed Universal Credit.
Medium level
You will be sanctioned for 28 days for your first medium level sanction in any 364 day period, or 91 days for your second if you have to meet either the:
work search requirement – and you fail to take all reasonable actions to find paid work or increase your earnings from work
work availability requirement – and you are not available to start work or attend interviews
Low level
A low level sanction lasts until you do whatever you were sanctioned for failing to do, plus 7 days for your first low level sanction in any 364 day period, 14 days for your second, or 28 days for your third if you fail to:
attend or take part in a work-focused interview, and a lowest sanction level does not apply
attend or take part in a training course
take a specific action to get paid work, or to increase your earnings from work
Lowest level
These apply if you only have to meet the work-focused interview requirement, and you fail to attend or take part in a work-focused interview, they last until you take part in one.
How much is taken off your benefits?
Sanctions reduce the amount of Universal Credit standard allowance.
The standard allowance is the amount of Universal Credit that does not include extra money for things like children and housing costs.
It's cut by up to 100 per cent (meaning you get zero cash) for a single claimant or up to 50 per cent for each member of a couple.
No other deductions will be made, except to pay back arrears of service charges, rent, gas or electricity.
The rate of the sanction will be reduced to 40 per cent of this amount if:
You are aged 16 or 17
You are the carer of a child under one
You are pregnant and have less than 11 weeks before the baby is due
You have had a baby in the last 15 weeks (including if the baby was stillborn)
You have had an adopted child placed with you in the last 52 weeks
Your claimant commitment requires you to only attend work focused interviews
As a guide, based on the standard allowances of Universal Credit that are typically paid, these sanctions mean:
A cut in UC of £8.20 per day for the period of the sanction, if you are single and under 25 (and therefore usually receive £251.77 a month before any deductions)
A cut in UC of £10.40 per day for the period of the sanction, if you are single and over 25 (and therefore usually receive £317.82 a month before any deductions)
A cut in UC of £6.40 per day for the period of the sanction, if you are in a couple and both aged under 25 but only one of you has been sanctioned (and therefore usually receive £395.20 as a couple before any deductions)
A cut in UC of £8.20 per day for the period of the sanction, if you are in a couple and one or both of you is over 25 but only one of you has been sanctioned (and therefore usually receive £498.89 as a couple before any deductions)
What if you think the sanction is wrong?
If you don't think you should have been sanctioned, call the DWP using the number on your documents and ask for the decision to be looked at again. This is called a mandatory reconsideration. You can also ask for this online.
It usually has to be done within a month of the original decision.
If the DWP doesn't come to a different decision, you can then go to an independent tribunal.


birminghammail--2020-02-05--‘No repeat’ - Police issue message after Birmingham City finally see off Coventry City

Police say they are ‘ pleased ’ to report that there we no arrests or ejections at Birmingham City ’ s FA Cup fourth round replay win over Coventry City .
The two sides met at St Andrew ’ s on Tuesday for the second time in ten days after a 0-0 draw in the first tie .
Disorder was reported before and after that game which included a man suffering a fractured skull near the ground ahead of kick-off .
But the BCFC West Midlands Police Twitter account posted an update saying there was no repeat of anything like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ And they say the magic of the FA Cup is gone !
Another game to add to the diary now .
“ No arrests or ejections from last night ’ s game and pleased to say no repeat of the disorder from the initial fixture.
” The account added : “ Some of the resources that were originally posted to the game were handed back to force and day to day duties by half time.
” 11,680 fans – including around 4,500 in the away end – saw Blues twice come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra time , and then penalties .
First , Harlee Dean headed home a 92nd minute leveller after Marc Roberts had scored an own goal just minutes after half-time .
Coventry thought they had won it in extra time when Maxime Biamou put them back in front in the 144th minute , but Jeremie Bela found to net in the final 60 seconds to set up a penalty shoot-out .
Lee Camp was the hero for Blues , saving two of Coventry ’ s spot-kicks , while the hosts scored all of theirs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away at Premier League Leicester City .

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Police say they are ‘pleased’ to report that there we no arrests or ejections at Birmingham City’s FA Cup fourth round replay win over Coventry City.
The two sides met at St Andrew’s on Tuesday for the second time in ten days after a 0-0 draw in the first tie.
Disorder was reported before and after that game which included a man suffering a fractured skull near the ground ahead of kick-off.
But the BCFC West Midlands Police Twitter account posted an update saying there was no repeat of anything like that this time.
The post read: “And they say the magic of the FA Cup is gone! Another game to add to the diary now.
“No arrests or ejections from last night’s game and pleased to say no repeat of the disorder from the initial fixture.”
The account added: “Some of the resources that were originally posted to the game were handed back to force and day to day duties by half time.”
11,680 fans – including around 4,500 in the away end – saw Blues twice come from behind with late equalisers to force extra time, and then penalties.
First, Harlee Dean headed home a 92nd minute leveller after Marc Roberts had scored an own goal just minutes after half-time.
Coventry thought they had won it in extra time when Maxime Biamou put them back in front in the 144th minute, but Jeremie Bela found to net in the final 60 seconds to set up a penalty shoot-out.
Lee Camp was the hero for Blues, saving two of Coventry’s spot-kicks, while the hosts scored all of theirs to set up a fifth round tie away at Premier League Leicester City.


birminghammail--2020-02-05--'Instinctive' - The Spanish starlet impressing at Birmingham City

When Miguel Fernandez arrived at Birmingham City in the summer , the young Spaniard did so to a response for which St Andrew ’ s is well known : ‘ Who ?
’ However , this was not a case of an opposition player being summoned from the bench to be substituted into a Championship battle .
Instead Fernandez ’ s recruitment was the latest along the increasingly well-defined route from the Spanish lower leagues that has led all the way to the Second City .
When the deal was announced it was stated the attacker was very much a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , seven Under 23 goals later - and some are wondering if he ’ s destined for better things after he trained with the first team the day after the FA Cup win over Coventry City .
Who is he ?
A 20-year-old , brought over from Blues ’ sister club UE Cornella , where he worked with Xavi Calm , the coach who came over to work with Blues ’ Under 23s but who is now part of Pep Clotet ’ s first team staff .
He was in the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in regionalised third tier of Spanish football .
He was on the bench for the senior side on four occasions last term - and made a one minute appearance in December 2018 .
He also scored in the RFEF Cup , a lower league competition in Spain .
He spent a few weeks on trial with Blues in January - during which time he posted a picture of himself on his Instagram page with the message ‘ believe in your dreams ’ .
Sometimes dreams do come true - the move became permanent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
He played wide left when he initially came to Blues on loan - and has operated there at times this season .
However , he has played the majority of games as a second striker -from where he has scored most of his goals .
When Fernandez came in he needed to work on his conditioning .
Having had an injury in Spain he arrived behind the rest of the Under 23s and it took a while to get into the swing of things .
However , he ’ s there now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the winner at Crewe , he also scored in the 6-0 drubbing of Bolton , twice against Leeds and twice in the 4-0 win at Wigan .
His seventh came against Nottingham Forest just before Christmas .
With the first team struggling for goals , it ’ s only natural to look at the Under 23s to see if the answer lies within .
What have they said Development coach Steve Spooner sees plenty of positives - but thinks Fernandez is very much a work in progress .
“ He has got some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he sees things very quickly , ” Spooner told BirminghamLive .
“ He is moving along nicely , I wouldn ’ t want to heap too much praise on him because he is a slow burner who is going to get better and better .
“ His goals have been very good , he is instinctive with his finishing and doesn ’ t need too many touches - he has got a great first touch .
“ He is clever around the box , he can get shots off quickly , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No .
10 just off the top .
Although he is scoring the goals it has been a real collective performance.
” He signed a six-month contract in August - similar to Cameron McGilp and goalkeeper Michael Luyambula - who joined from Borussia Dortmund ’ s youth set-up .
After the end of his six month deal McGilp signed for Swindon in January - but is now on loan at Hungerford Town .
Luyambula earned a one-year contract and is now on loan at AFC Telford .
Like the goalkeeper Fernandez did enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rest of this season with an option for next .
The bridge between the development and first team has been a particularly difficult one to cross for a host of talented young goal-scorers in recent years .
Odin Bailey is the one closest to doing that - and he has been buoyed by his first senior goal against Middlesbrough yet still found competition for places intense before being loaned out to Forest Green .
Kyle McFarlane was leading scorer for the Under 23s for the last couple of seasons but left Blues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fernandez will be hoping another dream comes to fruition .

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When Miguel Fernandez arrived at Birmingham City in the summer, the young Spaniard did so to a response for which St Andrew’s is well known: ‘Who?’
However, this was not a case of an opposition player being summoned from the bench to be substituted into a Championship battle.
Instead Fernandez’s recruitment was the latest along the increasingly well-defined route from the Spanish lower leagues that has led all the way to the Second City.
When the deal was announced it was stated the attacker was very much a development project for the Under 23s.
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However, after seven goals with the Under 23s earlier in this elongated season, he has tonight been named on the bench for the visit of Charlton Athletic.
Who is he?
A 20-year-old, brought over from Blues’ sister club UE Cornella, where he worked with Xavi Calm, the coach who came over to work with Blues’ Under 23s before spending time as part of Pep Clotet's back room set-up.
Fernandez was in the first team picture in Cornella, who play in regionalised third tier of Spanish football.
He was on the bench for the senior side on four occasions last term - and made a one minute appearance in December 2018. He also scored in the RFEF Cup, a lower league competition in Spain.
(Image: BCFC/Roy Smiljanic)
He spent a few weeks on trial with Blues in January 2019 - during which time he posted a picture of himself on his Instagram page with the message ‘believe in your dreams’.
Sometimes dreams do come true - the move became permanent in August.
What his best position?
He played wide left when he initially came to Blues on loan - and has operated there at times this season.
However, he has played the majority of games as a second striker -from where he has scored most of his goals.
(Image: https://www.instagram.com/fernandezmiguel10/)
Overcoming a slow start
When Fernandez came in he needed to work on his conditioning. Having had an injury in Spain he arrived behind the rest of the Under 23s and it took a while to get into the swing of things.
However, he’s there now. His sixth goal proved to be the winner at Crewe, he also scored in the 6-0 drubbing of Bolton, twice against Leeds and twice in the 4-0 win at Wigan.
His seventh came against Nottingham Forest just before Christmas.
With Blues struggling for both senior and attacking options he has been named on the bench this evening.
What have they said
Caretaker - and his U23 boss, Steve Spooner sees plenty of positives but thinks Fernandez is very much a work in progress.
“He has got some wonderful qualities, his sleight of foot, he sees things very quickly,” Spooner told BirminghamLive earlier this season.
“He is moving along nicely, I wouldn’t want to heap too much praise on him because he is a slow burner who is going to get better and better.
“His goals have been very good, he is instinctive with his finishing and doesn’t need too many touches - he has got a great first touch.
“He is clever around the box, he can get shots off quickly, for me his best position is as a No. 10 just off the top. Although he is scoring the goals it has been a real collective performance.”
What’s his contract situation?
He signed a six-month contract last August and did enough to have it extended for the remainder of this campaign.
In May Blues triggered the one year option and he will remain at the club for the 2020/2021 season.
The bridge between the development and first team has been a particularly difficult one to cross for a host of talented young goal-scorers in recent years.
Odin Bailey is the one closest to doing that - and he has been buoyed by his first senior goal against Middlesbrough yet still found competition for places intense before being loaned out to Forest Green.
He was injured at the New Lawn and is not eligible to play for Blues this evening.
Kyle McFarlane was leading scorer for the Under 23s for the last couple of seasons but left Blues having not made a senior appearance.
Fernandez will be hoping another dream comes to fruition.


birminghammail--2020-02-05--‘Shouldn’t have’ - Referee reveals he made a mistake in cheeky Aston Villa incident

He ’ s English football ’ s most famous referee – and Aston Villa were playing when his most memorable moment in the job occurred .
Now , Mike Dean has explained exactly why he appeared to ‘ celebrate ’ Mousa Dembele ’ s goal for Tottenham against Villa in 2015 .
We ’ ve all seen the video time and time again .
With just two minutes on the clock and with the score at 0-0 , Spurs break on Villa .
Dembele goes through the defence and slots the ball beyond Brad Guzan .
As he wheels away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or at least he appears to .
After playing advantage in the build-up to the goal , Dean runs in a similar arc to the Spurs players and even waves his finger in the air .
It 's as if he is celebrating the goal , and the official has now revealed he was – but for a different reason to those in Spurs colours , and probably made a mistake by doing so .
In an interview to celebrate officiating 500 matches in the Premier League , Dean said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal celebration , I was celebrating an advantage .
`` I kind of got carried away with it , with the whole day really , it is a foul , I 've played on and I probably should n't have put my arms out . ''
The 51-year-old added : `` You 've got to enjoy yourself , I love the job , that kind of comes out the way I referee the football .
`` It 's not really a job , it 's a hobby and I absolutely love it .
@

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He’s English football’s most famous referee – and Aston Villa were playing when his most memorable moment in the job occurred.
Now, Mike Dean has explained exactly why he appeared to ‘celebrate’ Mousa Dembele’s goal for Tottenham against Villa in 2015.
We’ve all seen the video time and time again. With just two minutes on the clock and with the score at 0-0, Spurs break on Villa.
Dembele goes through the defence and slots the ball beyond Brad Guzan. As he wheels away in celebration, so too does Dean, or at least he appears to.
After playing advantage in the build-up to the goal, Dean runs in a similar arc to the Spurs players and even waves his finger in the air.
It's as if he is celebrating the goal, and the official has now revealed he was – but for a different reason to those in Spurs colours, and probably made a mistake by doing so.
In an interview to celebrate officiating 500 matches in the Premier League, Dean said: "I wouldn't say it was a goal celebration, I was celebrating an advantage.
"I kind of got carried away with it, with the whole day really, it is a foul, I've played on and I probably shouldn't have put my arms out."
The 51-year-old added: "You've got to enjoy yourself, I love the job, that kind of comes out the way I referee the football.
"It's not really a job, it's a hobby and I absolutely love it."


birminghammail--2020-02-05--Police appeal to find black VW Golf following serious Sparkbrook assault which left man in a coma

Police have issued an appeal to find a Volkswagen Golf car after a man was left in a coma following a serious assault in Sparkbrook .
A man was discovered unconscious and with significant head injuries in Swallow Close at about 2.40am on January 20 .
The 22-year-old remains in hospital in a coma and his condition is serious but stable .
Two men , aged 19 and 22 , were arrested on January 30 on suspicion of assault .
They were both conditionally bailed pending further enquiries .
A statement from West Midlands Police said : `` Do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sparkbrook which has left a 22-year-old man in a coma ?
`` We were called to reports of a man with significant head injuries who was found unconscious in Swallow Close at about 2.40am on Monday 20 January .
`` He remains in hospital in a coma and his condition is serious but stable .
`` Our investigations are continuing and we are keen to speak to anyone who may have information about the incident , or saw a black VW Golf in the area around 11.20pm on Sunday 19 January .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , were arrested on suspicion of assault on 30 January .
They were both conditionally bailed pending further enquiries .
`` You can get in touch , quoting 20BE/16862C/20 , via Live chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am to midnight , or by calling 101 anytime .
To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 . ''

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Police have issued an appeal to find a Volkswagen Golf car after a man was left in a coma following a serious assault in Sparkbrook.
A man was discovered unconscious and with significant head injuries in Swallow Close at about 2.40am on January 20.
The 22-year-old remains in hospital in a coma and his condition is serious but stable.
Two men, aged 19 and 22, were arrested on January 30 on suspicion of assault. They were both conditionally bailed pending further enquiries.
A statement from West Midlands Police said: "Do you know anything about an assault in #Sparkbrook which has left a 22-year-old man in a coma?
"We were called to reports of a man with significant head injuries who was found unconscious in Swallow Close at about 2.40am on Monday 20 January.
"He remains in hospital in a coma and his condition is serious but stable.
"Our investigations are continuing and we are keen to speak to anyone who may have information about the incident, or saw a black VW Golf in the area around 11.20pm on Sunday 19 January.
"Two men, aged 19 and 22, were arrested on suspicion of assault on 30 January. They were both conditionally bailed pending further enquiries.
"You can get in touch, quoting 20BE/16862C/20, via Live chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am to midnight, or by calling 101 anytime. To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."


birminghammail--2020-02-05--Popular Wolves podcast offers fans the chance to celebrate milestone achievement

Much has changed at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Molineux since 2010 .
Promotions , relegations , takeovers , League One and the Europa League – but one thing that has remained constant is a weekly podcast giving Wolves fans an alternative look at goings-on at the club .
Wolves Fancast , which initially started in 2007 , before returning full time in 2010 , has been an ever present for many Wanderers fans and this week will reach a landmark milestone .
This week ’ s show will see the Fancast record their 400th episode .
A feat that creator David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I ’ m delighted that Wolves Fancast has got to 400 episodes , ” Dave explained .
“ What started out as a university project has grown into a leading digital platform for Wolves content .
“ Over the last 10 years , we ’ ve worked tirelessly to create a podcast and a brand which helps connect fans from all over the world and helps listeners feel that they ’ re up to date with what ’ s going down at Molineux .
“ In the last couple of years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but you won ’ t find many shows which have reached over 400 episodes , and we wanted to mark that achievement.
” To commemorate the achievement , the podcast will record their latest episode in the city centre Lych Gate Tavern pub on Friday ( Feb 7 ) .
Where Wolves fans can offer their own input and discuss their own memories and experiences following the team .
“ Our 400th episode will look back at some of the key moments from Wolves ’ history in the last 30 years and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Dave added .
“ We will discuss our versions of historic events and explore how people followed , viewed and celebrated these games differently .
“ It will also be a moment to mark the occasion , where we will be inviting former members of our show to discuss their memories of being part of the podcast and the experience they gained.
” Since its creation at the start of the decade , there have been awards and live shows , but Dave was keen to acknowledge that its real success comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appear on the show – and the fans that continue to listen .
“ The success of our show has been down to the tireless efforts of our 10 person strong team who all help to make the podcast the best it can be , and to our invaluable listeners , who have supported what we do and kept us going.
” To be involved in Friday ’ s show head along to The Lych Gate Tavern from 7pm on Friday , February 7 .
For full details click here for the Wolves @ @ @

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Much has changed at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Molineux since 2010.
Promotions, relegations, takeovers, League One and the Europa League – but one thing that has remained constant is a weekly podcast giving Wolves fans an alternative look at goings-on at the club.
Wolves Fancast, which initially started in 2007, before returning full time in 2010, has been an ever present for many Wanderers fans and this week will reach a landmark milestone.
This week’s show will see the Fancast record their 400th episode. A feat that creator David Evans is extremely proud to reach.
“I’m delighted that Wolves Fancast has got to 400 episodes,” Dave explained. “What started out as a university project has grown into a leading digital platform for Wolves content.
“Over the last 10 years, we’ve worked tirelessly to create a podcast and a brand which helps connect fans from all over the world and helps listeners feel that they’re up to date with what’s going down at Molineux.
“In the last couple of years, the popularity of podcasts has risen exceptionally, but you won’t find many shows which have reached over 400 episodes, and we wanted to mark that achievement.”
To commemorate the achievement, the podcast will record their latest episode in the city centre Lych Gate Tavern pub on Friday (Feb 7). Where Wolves fans can offer their own input and discuss their own memories and experiences following the team.
“Our 400th episode will look back at some of the key moments from Wolves’ history in the last 30 years and celebrate the stories behind the story,” Dave added.
“We will discuss our versions of historic events and explore how people followed, viewed and celebrated these games differently.
“It will also be a moment to mark the occasion, where we will be inviting former members of our show to discuss their memories of being part of the podcast and the experience they gained.”
Since its creation at the start of the decade, there have been awards and live shows, but Dave was keen to acknowledge that its real success comes from the commitment of the volunteers who appear on the show – and the fans that continue to listen.
“The success of our show has been down to the tireless efforts of our 10 person strong team who all help to make the podcast the best it can be, and to our invaluable listeners, who have supported what we do and kept us going.”
To be involved in Friday’s show head along to The Lych Gate Tavern from 7pm on Friday, February 7. For full details click here for the Wolves Fancast official site


birminghammail--2020-02-05--Convicted fraudster facing extradition to Spain over claims he was police informer

A convicted fraudster facing extradition to Spain over claims he acted as a financial adviser to criminal gangs says the Spanish authorities unlawfully forced him to incriminate himself .
Paul Blanchard , 74 , from York , allegedly helped criminals in Tenerife launder and invest their ill-gotten cash between 1999 and 2001 .
A European Arrest Warrant was issued in April 2018 but Blanchard is fighting the extradition bid at Westminster Magistrates Court .
He claims statements he freely gave to the Spanish police without a lawyer or interpreter present in 2001 in an effort to help them prosecute the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incriminate him almost 20 years later .
Blanchard supplied information on Lebanese-born businessman Mohamed Derbah , who allegedly laundered money through timeshare sales and fraudulent holiday packages .
He now claims that the Spanish authorities are using these statements against him in order to build a stronger case against Derbah and to prosecute him as a co-defendant .
Blanchard , formerly a corporate consultant specialising in offshore services , was jailed in the UK in 2008 for his part in a series of linked frauds .
He admitted his part in a passport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steal £4.30 million from a London bank and transfer it to Spain .
If convicted of the new charges , Blanchard could face up to 15 years in a Spanish jail .
At an extradition hearing on Wednesday , Mark Summers QC , for Blanchard , said his client 's status as a witness was proved by the fact Spanish agents had given him their personal phone numbers to help keep him safe .
He added that one police officer had recommended Blanchard leave Tenerife for fear of an attack or assassination attempt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` overwhelming evidence '' that the Spanish police were prepared to `` bend the rules '' in their investigations .
`` This was a decision to throw a witness under the bus to keep the case against a bigger fish ( Derbah ) alive , '' he said .
He said Spain 's extradition request was `` infused with bad faith '' .
`` The Spanish insist that what ( Blanchard ) did was voluntary , '' Mr Summers said .
`` There is nothing voluntary about giving a statement when you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to speak . ''
He said the Spanish had fundamentally and irretrievably breached Article 6 of the Human Rights Act - Blanchard 's right to a fair trial .
Mr Summers said the case against Blanchard was a final attempt to break the 20-year stalemate with Derbah , who has still not been prosecuted and is understood to be on bail .
At a previous hearing in December , Blanchard said he had handed the Spanish police physical evidence , including a 20kg package of documents sent from the UK .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trips to Tenerife , local police were so concerned about his safety they provided him with a security detail .
Blanchard told the court he also gave information to officers in 2004 about possible terrorist activity , including the names of two people who committed the July 7 bombings in London the following year .
He claimed his relationship with the Spanish police deteriorated in 2004 after he told other officers in Malaga , southern Spain , about his role to provide intelligence .
`` Within 10 minutes it had completely destroyed everything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
He was arrested in his York home in 2018 by North Yorkshire Police for his alleged involvement in the scam .
The Spanish police have not corroborated his claims about any intelligence role .
Derbah published a book in 2018 about the alleged criminal gang - the same year the warrant was issued for Blanchard 's arrest , the court was told .
Judge Tan Ikram is due to return his ruling on the extradition request on 4 March .

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A convicted fraudster facing extradition to Spain over claims he acted as a financial adviser to criminal gangs says the Spanish authorities unlawfully forced him to incriminate himself.
Paul Blanchard, 74, from York, allegedly helped criminals in Tenerife launder and invest their ill-gotten cash between 1999 and 2001.
A European Arrest Warrant was issued in April 2018 but Blanchard is fighting the extradition bid at Westminster Magistrates Court.
He claims statements he freely gave to the Spanish police without a lawyer or interpreter present in 2001 in an effort to help them prosecute the ring leaders are now being used to incriminate him almost 20 years later.
Blanchard supplied information on Lebanese-born businessman Mohamed Derbah, who allegedly laundered money through timeshare sales and fraudulent holiday packages.
He now claims that the Spanish authorities are using these statements against him in order to build a stronger case against Derbah and to prosecute him as a co-defendant.
Blanchard, formerly a corporate consultant specialising in offshore services, was jailed in the UK in 2008 for his part in a series of linked frauds.
He admitted his part in a passport fraud, laundering £375,000 and trying to steal £4.30 million from a London bank and transfer it to Spain.
If convicted of the new charges, Blanchard could face up to 15 years in a Spanish jail.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
At an extradition hearing on Wednesday, Mark Summers QC, for Blanchard, said his client's status as a witness was proved by the fact Spanish agents had given him their personal phone numbers to help keep him safe.
He added that one police officer had recommended Blanchard leave Tenerife for fear of an attack or assassination attempt by Derbah.
Mr Summers said there was "overwhelming evidence" that the Spanish police were prepared to "bend the rules" in their investigations.
"This was a decision to throw a witness under the bus to keep the case against a bigger fish (Derbah) alive," he said.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
He said Spain's extradition request was "infused with bad faith".
"The Spanish insist that what (Blanchard) did was voluntary," Mr Summers said.
"There is nothing voluntary about giving a statement when you are a suspect and you are entitled not to speak."
He said the Spanish had fundamentally and irretrievably breached Article 6 of the Human Rights Act - Blanchard's right to a fair trial.
Mr Summers said the case against Blanchard was a final attempt to break the 20-year stalemate with Derbah, who has still not been prosecuted and is understood to be on bail.
At a previous hearing in December, Blanchard said he had handed the Spanish police physical evidence, including a 20kg package of documents sent from the UK.
He also said that on one of his trips to Tenerife, local police were so concerned about his safety they provided him with a security detail.
Blanchard told the court he also gave information to officers in 2004 about possible terrorist activity, including the names of two people who committed the July 7 bombings in London the following year.
He claimed his relationship with the Spanish police deteriorated in 2004 after he told other officers in Malaga, southern Spain, about his role to provide intelligence.
"Within 10 minutes it had completely destroyed everything because I had broken my cover," he said.
He was arrested in his York home in 2018 by North Yorkshire Police for his alleged involvement in the scam.
The Spanish police have not corroborated his claims about any intelligence role.
Derbah published a book in 2018 about the alleged criminal gang - the same year the warrant was issued for Blanchard's arrest, the court was told.
Judge Tan Ikram is due to return his ruling on the extradition request on 4 March.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Aston Villa transfer news LIVE: Grealish tipped for summer swoop amid Man Utd links as target breaks

Aston Villa transfer news LIVE: Grealish tipped for summer swoop amid Man Utd links as target breaks silence

Hello and welcome to Thursday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you in @ @ @ @ @ latest transfer rumours today as Dean Smith 's side continue to be linked with moves @ @ @ @ @ Friday .
Fenerbahce striker Vedat Muriqi is the latest name in the frame and we @ @ @ @ @ and when they happen to that one .
Plus there will be all the latest @ @ @ @ @ playmaker linked with two huge , new suitors .
Villa are n't back in action @ @ @ @ @ when they host Tottenham Hotspur so there 's plenty of time to digest the Bournemouth @ @ @ @ @ Jose Mourinho 's side .
Make sure you stick with us on the blog below @ @ @ @ @

Hello and welcome to Monday's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive.
We will be keeping you up to date with all the latest Villa news and views as Dean Smith's side take a well-earned weekend off from their battle against relegation.
Villa are still in 17th place after the Premier League's weekend fixtures as they prepare for Sunday's visit of Jose Mourinho's Tottenham.
We'll be building up to that clash and bringing all the latest news and rumours regarding potential summer signings.
And we will keep up in the loop with any developments regarding Jack Grealish, with the skipper heavily linked with a move to Manchester United again last night.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Nurse driving while on 'toxic' level of Tramadol jailed for killing driver

A nurse has been jailed for killing a 65-year-old man in a head-on collision while high on a `` toxic '' level of painkillers .
Cerys Price , 28 , crossed into the opposite carriageway while suffering a seizure and ploughed into a car driven by Robert Dean who was on his way to a family party .
On Thursday Cardiff Crown Court heard intensive care nurse Price was driving her father 's Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck on the A467 near Rogerstone , Newport , when she crossed the central reservation and collided with Mr Dean 's Vauxhall Astra .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while Price 's then-boyfriend Jack Tinklin , 30 , who was a passenger in her car on their trip to a holiday in Gower , South Wales , also suffered serious injuries .
Price , the daughter of a driving instructor , spent around a month in hospital following the crash on July 15 2016 after suffering a knee injury .
While she was treated in hospital for her own injuries a blood sample taken from her revealed a high level of the painkiller Tramadol in her system .
The medication had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have been purchased by Price while she had holidayed in Mexico one month earlier after suffering pains connected to a miscarriage .
Police found a tub of Tramadol tablets in her smashed vehicle 's glove compartment with only 26 of its 100 pills remaining .
During Price 's trial an expert toxicologist described the concentration of the drugs in her system as `` toxic or lethal '' , with such levels `` associated with seizures '' .
Price denied she had taken excessive amounts of painkillers before her journey , claiming someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tub , and said her history of suffering epileptic seizures explained why she lost control of her vehicle .
But a jury found her guilty of causing death by dangerous driving , and also causing serious injury by dangerous driving in relation to now ex-boyfriend Mr Tinklin .
Asda lorry driver Mr Dean 's family said his death had been devastating and left some needing therapy .
His wife , Anne Dean , said the couple were days away from celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary .
She said in a statement : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was my rock .
I feel totally lost and empty .
`` He was a wonderful husband , son , father and grandfather . ''
John Dye , defending , said a `` remorseful '' Price had accepted she would never be able to return to her job as an intensive care nurse .
He said : `` It 's a bitter irony she spent her life preventing loss of life to then find herself sat in court after causing death in the circumstances she has .
`` She 'll have to live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life . ''
He added : `` She had n't knowingly put people at risk .
She 's been reckless . ''
Judge Michael Fitton QC told Price : `` You 've destroyed your good name , your prospects , and brought grief to your own family .
`` You are perfectly capable of addressing the issues in this case to rebuild your life .
You are perfectly capable of making yourself a caring , useful member of society as you once aspired to be .
`` You will recover from this .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Price , from Brynmawr , South Wales , was sentenced to five years and four months in jail , and disqualified from driving for 64 months .
After the sentence , Kelly Huggins of the Crown Prosecution Service , said : `` Being a qualified nurse , Cerys Price should have known the dangers of driving after taking these tablets , but she drove nevertheless . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (PA, James Rodger)

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A nurse has been jailed for killing a 65-year-old man in a head-on collision while high on a "toxic" level of painkillers.
Cerys Price, 28, crossed into the opposite carriageway while suffering a seizure and ploughed into a car driven by Robert Dean who was on his way to a family party.
On Thursday Cardiff Crown Court heard intensive care nurse Price was driving her father's Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck on the A467 near Rogerstone, Newport, when she crossed the central reservation and collided with Mr Dean's Vauxhall Astra.
Mr Dean died instantly from his injuries, while Price's then-boyfriend Jack Tinklin, 30, who was a passenger in her car on their trip to a holiday in Gower, South Wales, also suffered serious injuries.
Price, the daughter of a driving instructor, spent around a month in hospital following the crash on July 15 2016 after suffering a knee injury.
While she was treated in hospital for her own injuries a blood sample taken from her revealed a high level of the painkiller Tramadol in her system.
The medication had not been prescribed and was later found to have been purchased by Price while she had holidayed in Mexico one month earlier after suffering pains connected to a miscarriage.
Police found a tub of Tramadol tablets in her smashed vehicle's glove compartment with only 26 of its 100 pills remaining.
During Price's trial an expert toxicologist described the concentration of the drugs in her system as "toxic or lethal", with such levels "associated with seizures".
Price denied she had taken excessive amounts of painkillers before her journey, claiming someone else had taken painkillers out of the tub, and said her history of suffering epileptic seizures explained why she lost control of her vehicle.
But a jury found her guilty of causing death by dangerous driving, and also causing serious injury by dangerous driving in relation to now ex-boyfriend Mr Tinklin.
Asda lorry driver Mr Dean's family said his death had been devastating and left some needing therapy.
His wife, Anne Dean, said the couple were days away from celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
She said in a statement: "I totally relied on him and he was my rock. I feel totally lost and empty.
"He was a wonderful husband, son, father and grandfather."
John Dye, defending, said a "remorseful" Price had accepted she would never be able to return to her job as an intensive care nurse.
He said: "It's a bitter irony she spent her life preventing loss of life to then find herself sat in court after causing death in the circumstances she has.
"She'll have to live with that for the rest of her life."
He added: "She hadn't knowingly put people at risk. She's been reckless."
Judge Michael Fitton QC told Price: "You've destroyed your good name, your prospects, and brought grief to your own family.
"You are perfectly capable of addressing the issues in this case to rebuild your life. You are perfectly capable of making yourself a caring, useful member of society as you once aspired to be.
"You will recover from this. Robert Dean has been denied that opportunity."
Price, from Brynmawr, South Wales, was sentenced to five years and four months in jail, and disqualified from driving for 64 months.
After the sentence, Kelly Huggins of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: "Being a qualified nurse, Cerys Price should have known the dangers of driving after taking these tablets, but she drove nevertheless."


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Producer of Brexit: The Movie jailed after lying to secure £519,000 loan

The producer of Brexit : The Movie has been jailed for more than three years after admitting lying to secure a £519,000 loan .
David Shipley , 37 , edited images of his payslips and P60 to over-inflate his income in order to obtain money for a new finance firm he helped establish .
Southwark Crown Court heard on Thursday that Shipley had `` Photoshopped '' his P60 to show an income of £377,000 , and bank statements showing £540,000 .
But Judge Martin Griffith said the defendant 's true income was just £19,928 .
`` It was clearly an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he told Shipley .
`` You were going into business with other people and you say you have earned this much in the past and they trusted your word . ''
The court heard that Shipley had set up corporate finance advisory firm Spitfire Capital Advisers Ltd with two other people .
In 2014 , he contacted Resourcing Capital Ventures Limited ( RCV ) for a £519,000 loan , of which £327,600 was paid into Shipley 's company , prosecutor Aqeel Noorali said .
Judge Griffith said Shipley 's actions amounted to `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You maintained , when you Photoshopped those documents , it amounted to a white lie . ''
The court heard that Shipley , of Broomfield Hill , Great Missenden , Buckinghamshire , had previously pleaded guilty to one count of fraud by false representation between June 12 and September 5 2014 .
`` You were clearly acting out of your normal standards in this , but it was a blatant piece of dishonesty , '' Judge Griffith said .
He said Shipley was a man of `` good character , save for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shipley for three years and nine months .
He will serve half of the sentence of licence .
Shipley , who showed no emotion as the sentence was read out , was also disqualified from being a director for seven years .
A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing is due to take place at a later date .
Shipley denied a second charge of fraud by abuse of position between June 1 2014 and December 31 2017 , which will lie on file .

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The producer of Brexit: The Movie has been jailed for more than three years after admitting lying to secure a £519,000 loan.
David Shipley, 37, edited images of his payslips and P60 to over-inflate his income in order to obtain money for a new finance firm he helped establish.
Southwark Crown Court heard on Thursday that Shipley had "Photoshopped" his P60 to show an income of £377,000, and bank statements showing £540,000.
But Judge Martin Griffith said the defendant's true income was just £19,928.
"It was clearly an abuse of position by you," he told Shipley.
"You were going into business with other people and you say you have earned this much in the past and they trusted your word."
The court heard that Shipley had set up corporate finance advisory firm Spitfire Capital Advisers Ltd with two other people.
(Image: PA)
In 2014, he contacted Resourcing Capital Ventures Limited (RCV) for a £519,000 loan, of which £327,600 was paid into Shipley's company, prosecutor Aqeel Noorali said.
Judge Griffith said Shipley's actions amounted to "gross dishonesty", adding: "You maintained, when you Photoshopped those documents, it amounted to a white lie."
The court heard that Shipley, of Broomfield Hill, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, had previously pleaded guilty to one count of fraud by false representation between June 12 and September 5 2014.
"You were clearly acting out of your normal standards in this, but it was a blatant piece of dishonesty," Judge Griffith said.
(Image: PA)
He said Shipley was a man of "good character, save for a drink-driving matter".
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Judge Griffith jailed Shipley for three years and nine months. He will serve half of the sentence of licence.
Shipley, who showed no emotion as the sentence was read out, was also disqualified from being a director for seven years.
A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing is due to take place at a later date.
Shipley denied a second charge of fraud by abuse of position between June 1 2014 and December 31 2017, which will lie on file.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Confirmed: The key transfer decision that affects Wolves

The Premier League have announced a change to the summer transfer window .
Clubs recently voted to bring the closing time forward to before the start of the season - and that has been implemented in each of the past two summer windows .
But that will be scrapped from next season onwards after Premier League clubs decided to return to the traditional closing time at the end of the summer .
Wolves and the 19 other Premier League clubs voted in favour of the decision , meaning this summer ’ s window will end on September 1 .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Shareholders ’ Meeting today , Premier League clubs voted to adopt a change to the Summer Transfer Window closing date for season 2020/21 .
“ This will move the closing date back to the traditional point at the end of August/early September .
“ The 2020 closing date will therefore be 17:00 BST on 1 September ( 31 August 2020 being a UK Bank Holiday ) .
“ Clubs agreed after discussing the topic at length at previous Shareholders ' Meetings.
” The majority of Wolves ’ business in the last two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the market has opened up .
With international competitions , including Euro 2020 , set to dominate the summer , Wolves and their rivals will welcome the extended period to complete deals .

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The Premier League have announced a change to the summer transfer window.
Clubs recently voted to bring the closing time forward to before the start of the season - and that has been implemented in each of the past two summer windows.
But that will be scrapped from next season onwards after Premier League clubs decided to return to the traditional closing time at the end of the summer.
Wolves and the 19 other Premier League clubs voted in favour of the decision, meaning this summer’s window will end on September 1.
A Premier League statement reads:“At a Shareholders’ Meeting today, Premier League clubs voted to adopt a change to the Summer Transfer Window closing date for season 2020/21.
“This will move the closing date back to the traditional point at the end of August/early September.
“The 2020 closing date will therefore be 17:00 BST on 1 September (31 August 2020 being a UK Bank Holiday).
“Clubs agreed after discussing the topic at length at previous Shareholders' Meetings.”
The majority of Wolves’ business in the last two transfer windows has been completed late once the market has opened up.
With international competitions, including Euro 2020, set to dominate the summer, Wolves and their rivals will welcome the extended period to complete deals.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Ralf Little makes Death in Paradise debut tonight as Ardal O’Hanlon’s replacement

Ralf Little will make his debut as the new detective in Death in Paradise tonight .
The actor plays DI Neville Parker , from Manchester Police , who is flown over to the fictional island of Saint Marie to investigate what appears to be a simple suicide case .
Every detective in the BBC series has their quirks and Parker is no different .
He 's super-sensitive to sunlight and has a number of allergies - not ideal for an island in the sun !
He takes over from DI Jack Mooney , played by Ardal O'Hanlon , who returned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of last week 's episode .
The synopsis for tonights episode says : `` The celebratory launch of a new luxury resort is cut short when a woman is found electrocuted in her hotel bathtub - with the door locked from the inside .
`` It looks like a simple case of suicide , but with Jack Mooney no longer around to confirm Commissioner Selwyn 's suspicions , DI Neville Parker is temporarily flown over from Manchester to close the case .
`` However , he soon realises that island @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when evidence of suspicious activity turns up , he is dismayed to realise he will have to extend his stay and investigate the case as murder . ''
Ralf Little was revealed as Ardal 's replacement back in October and speaking about the role , he said : `` It took less than 0.005 seconds to say yes to playing the new DI !
How could I not ?
“ Ardal has been wonderful in the last few series and to follow in his footsteps in a place as idyllic as Guadeloupe was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ true .
“ It is a joy to play Neville and I can ’ t wait for viewers to see him in Paradise this series.
” Little is the fourth star to play a lead detective on the show and follows in the footsteps of O ’ Hanlon , Kris Marshall and Ben Miller .
He joins current regulars Don Warrington , Tobi Bakare , Shyko Amos , Aude Legastelois and Elizabeth Bourgine in the series , which is filmed in Guadaloupe .
Speaking on The One Show last night , Ralf and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patterson , talked about what it 's like filming on the Caribbean Island .
Host Alex Jones said : `` It must be really hard having to film out there ?
” Ralf joked : “ Yes , it ’ s terrible .
As you can see it ’ s pretty grim landscape .
Nothing to do on the weekends.
” Executive producer Tim Key said : `` We ’ re delighted to welcome Ralf to the team – he ’ s not only a great actor but also extremely funny and from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knew the show was in safe hands .
“ Neville is a true fish out of water and the island of Saint Marie is going to test him to the core .
`` We ’ re hugely excited about the future and can ’ t wait for the audience to meet D.I Parker.
” Death in Paradise continues tonight at 9pm on BBC One .

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Ralf Little will make his debut as the new detective in Death in Paradise tonight.
The actor plays DI Neville Parker, from Manchester Police, who is flown over to the fictional island of Saint Marie to investigate what appears to be a simple suicide case.
Every detective in the BBC series has their quirks and Parker is no different. He's super-sensitive to sunlight and has a number of allergies - not ideal for an island in the sun!
He takes over from DI Jack Mooney, played by Ardal O'Hanlon, who returned home to the UK with his daughter at the end of last week's episode.
(Image: BBC/Red Planet/Philip Volkers)
The synopsis for tonights episode says: "The celebratory launch of a new luxury resort is cut short when a woman is found electrocuted in her hotel bathtub - with the door locked from the inside.
"It looks like a simple case of suicide, but with Jack Mooney no longer around to confirm Commissioner Selwyn's suspicions, DI Neville Parker is temporarily flown over from Manchester to close the case.
"However, he soon realises that island life is not for him, so when evidence of suspicious activity turns up, he is dismayed to realise he will have to extend his stay and investigate the case as murder."
Ralf Little was revealed as Ardal's replacement back in October and speaking about the role, he said: "It took less than 0.005 seconds to say yes to playing the new DI! How could I not?
“Ardal has been wonderful in the last few series and to follow in his footsteps in a place as idyllic as Guadeloupe was a great honour and a dream come true.
“It is a joy to play Neville and I can’t wait for viewers to see him in Paradise this series.”
Little is the fourth star to play a lead detective on the show and follows in the footsteps of O’Hanlon, Kris Marshall and Ben Miller.
He joins current regulars Don Warrington, Tobi Bakare, Shyko Amos, Aude Legastelois and Elizabeth Bourgine in the series, which is filmed in Guadaloupe.
Speaking on The One Show last night, Ralf and his co-star Shyko, who plays Ruby Patterson, talked about what it's like filming on the Caribbean Island.
(Image: BBC/Red Planet/Denis Guyenon)
Host Alex Jones said: "It must be really hard having to film out there?”
Ralf joked: “Yes, it’s terrible. As you can see it’s pretty grim landscape. Nothing to do on the weekends.”
Executive producer Tim Key said: "We’re delighted to welcome Ralf to the team – he’s not only a great actor but also extremely funny and from the moment he stepped on set we knew the show was in safe hands.
“Neville is a true fish out of water and the island of Saint Marie is going to test him to the core.
"We’re hugely excited about the future and can’t wait for the audience to meet D.I Parker.”
Death in Paradise continues tonight at 9pm on BBC One.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Liam Gallagher cancels Germany gig after just four songs due to vocal problems

Liam Gallagher fans were left disappointed last night after the singer cancelled his Germany gig minutes after the show started .
The former Oasis frontman was struggling with his voice during the first four songs and cut his setlist short in Hamburg .
The 47-year-old quickly apologised to his fans and promised them `` money back at the door '' .
He also took to Twitter to apologise to fans who 'd made the trip to the German city , writing : `` Sorry to everybody who came to the gig tnight in Hamburg my voice was not there and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ d have done more damage to it I love you all and hope you understand I ’ ll make it up to you LG x . ''
Footage captured by fans showed the 47-year-old storming off the stage , away from the microphone , reports the Mirror .
He was also seen making hand gestures midway through a song .
Liam is currently on tour in Europe and has another nine concerts in February , including Amsterdam this Friday and Brussels on Sunday .
It comes days after Liam suggested Oasis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tour but his brother Noel turned it down .
The warring siblings went their separate ways in 2009 following a series of bust-ups and fans have clamoured for a return since .
Liam , the younger of the brothers , has repeatedly signalled his willingness to get the band back together but Noel has so far resisted .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Nika Shakhnazarova, Katie Brooks)

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Liam Gallagher fans were left disappointed last night after the singer cancelled his Germany gig minutes after the show started.
The former Oasis frontman was struggling with his voice during the first four songs and cut his setlist short in Hamburg.
The 47-year-old quickly apologised to his fans and promised them "money back at the door".
He also took to Twitter to apologise to fans who'd made the trip to the German city, writing: "Sorry to everybody who came to the gig tnight in Hamburg my voice was not there and if I’d have carried on I’d have done more damage to it I love you all and hope you understand I’ll make it up to you LG x."
Footage captured by fans showed the 47-year-old storming off the stage, away from the microphone, reports the Mirror.
He was also seen making hand gestures midway through a song.
Liam is currently on tour in Europe and has another nine concerts in February, including Amsterdam this Friday and Brussels on Sunday.
It comes days after Liam suggested Oasis were offered £100 million for a reunion tour but his brother Noel turned it down.
The warring siblings went their separate ways in 2009 following a series of bust-ups and fans have clamoured for a return since.
Liam, the younger of the brothers, has repeatedly signalled his willingness to get the band back together but Noel has so far resisted.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Virgin Atlantic extends China flight suspension by six weeks amid coronavirus fears

Virgin Atlantic has extended the suspension of its flights to mainland China by six weeks amid growing concern over the coronavirus .
The airline said it will not operate its Heathrow-Shanghai route until March 28 after previously announcing flights were cancelled until February 17 .
A spokesman for the airline said : `` The health and safety of our customers and staff remains our absolute priority .
`` We continue to monitor the coronavirus situation very carefully , including the latest guidance from the World Health Organisation and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) , which on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave China if they are able to do so .
`` Given this new FCO advice , the increasing entry restrictions on recent visitors to mainland China , and our rigorous focus on safety , Virgin Atlantic has opted to extend the suspension of Heathrow-Shanghai operations until 28th March 2020 . ''
Passengers can obtain a refund and are urged to contact the airline to discuss their travel plans .
The other UK airline to serve mainland China - British Airways - has suspended its flights serving Beijing and Shanghai until February 29 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airlines - Air China , China Eastern and China Southern - are continuing to operate flights to London .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Neil Lancefield, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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Virgin Atlantic has extended the suspension of its flights to mainland China by six weeks amid growing concern over the coronavirus.
The airline said it will not operate its Heathrow-Shanghai route until March 28 after previously announcing flights were cancelled until February 17.
A spokesman for the airline said: "The health and safety of our customers and staff remains our absolute priority.
"We continue to monitor the coronavirus situation very carefully, including the latest guidance from the World Health Organisation and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), which on Tuesday issued new guidance to UK citizens to leave China if they are able to do so.
"Given this new FCO advice, the increasing entry restrictions on recent visitors to mainland China, and our rigorous focus on safety, Virgin Atlantic has opted to extend the suspension of Heathrow-Shanghai operations until 28th March 2020."
Passengers can obtain a refund and are urged to contact the airline to discuss their travel plans.
The other UK airline to serve mainland China - British Airways - has suspended its flights serving Beijing and Shanghai until February 29.
Chinese carrier Hainan Airlines halted its Manchester-Beijing route earlier this week.
But the country's three main airlines - Air China, China Eastern and China Southern - are continuing to operate flights to London.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Most EU nationals in UK want to settle in Birmingham after Brexit

Birmingham is the top location outside London for EU nationals wanting to settle in the UK following Brexit .
According to Home Office figures , Birmingham headed the list of most popular destinations for the EU Settlement Scheme - with more than 57,000 applications .
Meanwhile , official figures published at the same time show more than 2.7 million applications were made up until the end of last year .
Between August 28 2018 and December 31 2019 , more than 2.4 million applications were finalised , the Home Office data showed .
Of these , 58 per cent were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to remain - and 41 per cent were handed pre-settled status , which gives them temporary permission to keep living in the country and the chance to reapply once they have done so for five years .
There were 12,950 applications void or withdrawn , 3,280 classed as `` invalid '' and six refused on suitability grounds - valid applications which were denied because the applicants were regarded as serious or persistent criminals .
`` It 's the biggest scheme of its kind in British history and means that EU citizens can evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It 's now time for EU countries to adopt a similar scheme . ''
Here are the top 10 local authority areas outside London , by number of applications for the EU Settlement Scheme :

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Birmingham is the top location outside London for EU nationals wanting to settle in the UK following Brexit.
According to Home Office figures, Birmingham headed the list of most popular destinations for the EU Settlement Scheme - with more than 57,000 applications.
Meanwhile, official figures published at the same time show more than 2.7 million applications were made up until the end of last year.
Between August 28 2018 and December 31 2019, more than 2.4 million applications were finalised, the Home Office data showed.
Of these, 58 per cent were granted settled status - a permanent right to remain - and 41 per cent were handed pre-settled status, which gives them temporary permission to keep living in the country and the chance to reapply once they have done so for five years.
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There were 12,950 applications void or withdrawn, 3,280 classed as "invalid" and six refused on suitability grounds - valid applications which were denied because the applicants were regarded as serious or persistent criminals.
"It's the biggest scheme of its kind in British history and means that EU citizens can evidence their rights for decades to come.
"It's now time for EU countries to adopt a similar scheme."
Here are the top 10 local authority areas outside London, by number of applications for the EU Settlement Scheme:
Birmingham - 57,340
Leicester - 45,940
Manchester - 41,430
Edinburgh - 32,930
Leeds, Yorkshire and The Humber - 28,830
Bristol - 25,990
Peterborough - 25,820
Northampton - 25,350
Coventry - 23,420
Glasgow - 23,070