birminghammail--2020-08-17--ADVERTORIAL: Win £50 worth of Matalan shopping vouchers for Back to School uniform

We have teamed up with our friends at Matalan to give four lucky winners the chance to win £50 vouchers each towards the Back to School Shop !
It may have been a little while since kids have had to attempt to tie up their shoes or a tie but it 's time to go back and we are here to help !
The all year round school collection is stylish , smart and comfortable .
From stain resistant trousers and skirts , colour lasting jumpers and easy-care shirts , Matalan has got the best quality and kit that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefits within school uniform have become a parents survival , used to ensure the longevity of uniform , Matalan has put this at the front of their priorities , with teflon coated uniform , durable and minimum iron fabrics and even riptape fastenings instead of buttons .
To enter this competition you must collect three passwords that will be printed in this title everyday from Monday 17th August to Saturday 22nd August , once you have all of the tokens enter the form below with all of the relevant details .
All entries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
All winners will be contacted on Tuesday 25th August .
Why not also take part in Matalan ’ s ultimate challenge , # schoolreadyin60 .
Children have 60 seconds to get ready in their uniform , in preparation for going back in September .
Tag @ shopmatalan and use # schoolreadyin60 and be in with the chance to win a whole new uniform for your child ( ren ) .
There will be 5 winners each week in August .
Some of Matalan ’ s favourite influencers have kicked off the campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , @ olkafiolka ( 151k followers ) and @ chanelambrose ( 85.5k followers ) .
Click here to see more .
Matalan ’ s own brand ambassador Denise van Outen is also taking part in the challenge with their daughter Betsy .
Voucher entitles you to the discount stated on the voucher on one occasion and is valid until the date printed on this voucher .
Voucher is not transferable , has no cash value and can not be used in conjunction with any other promotion , offer , or discount ( including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( including staff discount ) , the purchase of gift vouchers & cards , books , DVDs , sunglasses , fragrance , confectionery , household cleaning/toiletry products , any toys from the Totally Toys range , any items from Card Factory range , any Claire ’ s Accessories items , any items from our in store cafes or any products being sold to raise funds for a specified charitable cause .
Vouchers can not be used at any Matalan clearance store .
Damaged or defaced vouchers will not be accepted .
Matalan reserves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incorrect codes or which Matalan reasonably believes to be copies and to amend , alter or terminate this discount at any time .
If you return a single item bought as part of a multi item purchase using this voucher you will be refunded the full price of the item less a pro–rata proportion of the discount given by the voucher .
Full terms and conditions apply , please see in store or online at for further details .
The promoter is : Matalan Retail Limited , Perimeter Road , Knowsley Industrial Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reach plc rules apply - see here for details

We have teamed up with our friends at Matalan to give four lucky winners the chance to win £50 vouchers each towards the Back to School Shop! It may have been a little while since kids have had to attempt to tie up their shoes or a tie but it's time to go back and we are here to help!
The all year round school collection is stylish, smart and comfortable. From stain resistant trousers and skirts, colour lasting jumpers and easy-care shirts, Matalan has got the best quality and kit that will last from term to term.
Technical benefits within school uniform have become a parents survival, used to ensure the longevity of uniform, Matalan has put this at the front of their priorities, with teflon coated uniform, durable and minimum iron fabrics and even riptape fastenings instead of buttons.
To enter this competition you must collect three passwords that will be printed in this title everyday from Monday 17th August to Saturday 22nd August, once you have all of the tokens enter the form below with all of the relevant details. All entries must be submitted by Sunday 23rd August. All winners will be contacted on Tuesday 25th August.
Terms and Conditions
Voucher entitles you to the discount stated on the voucher on one occasion and is valid until the date printed on this voucher. Voucher is not transferable, has no cash value and cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion, offer, or discount (including sale items), any discount scheme (including staff discount), the purchase of gift vouchers & cards, books, DVDs, sunglasses, fragrance, confectionery, household cleaning/toiletry products, any toys from the Totally Toys range, any items from Card Factory range, any Claire’s Accessories items, any items from our in store cafes or any products being sold to raise funds for a specified charitable cause. Vouchers cannot be used at any Matalan clearance store. Damaged or defaced vouchers will not be accepted. Matalan reserves the right to refuse any vouchers with incorrect codes or which Matalan reasonably believes to be copies and to amend, alter or terminate this discount at any time. If you return a single item bought as part of a multi item purchase using this voucher you will be refunded the full price of the item less a pro–rata proportion of the discount given by the voucher. Full terms and conditions apply, please see in store or online at www.matalan.co.uk for further details. The promoter is: Matalan Retail Limited, Perimeter Road, Knowsley Industrial Park, Liverpool, L33 7SZ.
Standard reach plc rules apply - see here for details


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Villa must act quickly with club 'hoping to wrap up' transfer

Aston Villa must act quickly to hijack Sheffield United 's move for Aaron Ramsdale with the Blades 'hoping to wrap @ @ @ @ @ according to reports .
It was reported over the weekend that Sheffield United had seen @ @ @ @ @ Bournemouth for 22-year-old goalkeeper Ramsdale .
Ramsdale left Bramall Lane for the Cherries in 2017 @ @ @ @ @ Chesterfield and AFC Wimbledon before becoming Bournemouth 's undisputed number one last season .
The @ @ @ @ @ route back into the Premier League following Bournemouth 's relegation and our sister title YorkshireLive @ @ @ @ @ to seal the deal in the coming days .
Villa 's interest in Ramsdale was @ @ @ @ @ in the market for a goalkeeper after Pepe Reina 's return to AC Milan .
@ @ @ @ @ 's current number one but he suffered a serious knee injury in January , leaving @ @ @ @ @ and Jed Steer .
Ramsdale , who was born in Stoke-on-Trent , appears to be @ @ @ @ @ as things stand Sheffield United are in pole position .

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Aston Villa must act quickly to hijack Sheffield United's move for Aaron Ramsdale with the Blades 'hoping to wrap up a move' imminently according to reports.
It was reported over the weekend that Sheffield United had seen an £18.5million bid accepted by Bournemouth for 22-year-old goalkeeper Ramsdale.
Ramsdale left Bramall Lane for the Cherries in 2017 and enjoyed loan spells with Chesterfield and AFC Wimbledon before becoming Bournemouth's undisputed number one last season.
The Blades are offering Ramsdale a route back into the Premier League following Bournemouth's relegation and our sister title YorkshireLive reports that they are hoping to seal the deal in the coming days.
Villa's interest in Ramsdale was reported overnight with Dean Smith in the market for a goalkeeper after Pepe Reina's return to AC Milan. Tom Heaton is the club's current number one but he suffered a serious knee injury in January, leaving Smith with just Orjan Nyland and Jed Steer.
Ramsdale, who was born in Stoke-on-Trent, appears to be an option for Villa but as things stand Sheffield United are in pole position.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Drivers warned of six-month delays on key commuter route

Drivers have been told to expect delays as lanes close for six months on a key commuter route into Birmingham city centre .
Motorists were urged to leave extra time for journeys on the the A34 Birchfield Road in Perry Barr with the underpass stretch down to just one lane in both directions until February 2021 .
The lane closures came into force today , Monday , August 17 .
The closure is part of the massive Perry Barr regeneration scheme , which started in January and is set to continue until 2022 .
Much of the redevelopment is linked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Games in 2022 - including the controversial demolition of the fly-over .
Under the £500 million programme , major improvements will be made to the A34 , with roadworks which will affect journeys between Walsall , north Birmingham and the city centre .
The iconic A34 Flyover will be demolished , there will be a new Sprint rapid transit route , improvements will be made to Perry Barr interchange and Alexander Stadium will be redeveloped .
Work has already started on the roads in and around Perry Barr .
Traffic lights are being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ footbridge and subway on the A34 has been permanently closed .
In the latest phase of the programme , West Midlands Network has announced the changes to the traffic using the A34 underpass .
A spokesman for West Midlands Network , which is co-ordinating all the work , said : `` Traffic in the A34 , Perry Barr , Underpass is now reduced to one lane in each direction .
`` This is until February 2021 .
Plan ahead and expect delays at peak times . ''
They advise commuters avoiding the area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get into Birmingham city centre .
The regeneration scheme has faced opposition from local residents since it was unveiled last year .
Most are unhappy about the demolition of the Perry Barr fly-over and are now hoping it can be saved after plans to build an athletes ' village were scrapped .

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Drivers have been told to expect delays as lanes close for six months on a key commuter route into Birmingham city centre.
Motorists were urged to leave extra time for journeys on the the A34 Birchfield Road in Perry Barr with the underpass stretch down to just one lane in both directions until February 2021.
The lane closures came into force today, Monday, August 17.
The closure is part of the massive Perry Barr regeneration scheme, which started in January and is set to continue until 2022.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Much of the redevelopment is linked to the Alexander Stadium hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2022 - including the controversial demolition of the fly-over.
Under the £500 million programme, major improvements will be made to the A34, with roadworks which will affect journeys between Walsall, north Birmingham and the city centre.
The iconic A34 Flyover will be demolished, there will be a new Sprint rapid transit route, improvements will be made to Perry Barr interchange and Alexander Stadium will be redeveloped.
Work has already started on the roads in and around Perry Barr. Traffic lights are being installed at Birchfield Roundabout and the pedestrian footbridge and subway on the A34 has been permanently closed.
In the latest phase of the programme, West Midlands Network has announced the changes to the traffic using the A34 underpass.
A spokesman for West Midlands Network, which is co-ordinating all the work, said: "Traffic in the A34, Perry Barr, Underpass is now reduced to one lane in each direction.
"This is until February 2021. Plan ahead and expect delays at peak times."
They advise commuters avoiding the area and instead using the Aston Expressway to get into Birmingham city centre.
The regeneration scheme has faced opposition from local residents since it was unveiled last year. Most are unhappy about the demolition of the Perry Barr fly-over and are now hoping it can be saved after plans to build an athletes' village were scrapped.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--'Weapons being loaded into car' sparks armed cop response in street

Armed police were spotted scouring a Black Country street after a weapons alert sparked the major search .
Units from @ @ @ @ @ unit were snapped searching an area of Chapel Street , Pensnett , following the 999 @ @ @ @ @ Friday , August 14 .
Several people were detained after cops swooped to the car @ @ @ @ @ But no weapons were found , a spokesman for the force also added .
An @ @ @ @ @ a number of police officers on the street during a search of the area .
@ @ @ @ @ cart can also be seen watching officers working .
It is not known if anyone @ @ @ @ @ for the police told BlackCountryLive today ( August 17 ) : `` We were called @ @ @ @ @ just before 3.30pm on Friday ( 14 August ) , to a report of weapons @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Armed officers attended and detained several people and checked their cars , but @ @ @ @ @ ''

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Armed police were spotted scouring a Black Country street after a weapons alert sparked the major search.
Units from West Midlands Police's gun unit were snapped searching an area of Chapel Street, Pensnett, following the 999 call just before 3.30pm on Friday, August 14.
Several people were detained after cops swooped to the car park off the carriageway.
But no weapons were found, a spokesman for the force also added.
An image from the site shows a number of police officers on the street during a search of the area. People on a horse and cart can also be seen watching officers working.
It is not known if anyone was arrested but a spokesman for the police told BlackCountryLive today (August 17): "We were called to Chapel Street in Pensnett just before 3.30pm on Friday (14 August), to a report of weapons being loaded into a car.
"Armed officers attended and detained several people and checked their cars, but no weapons were found."


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Cadbury launches Chocolate Orange Twirl -  how to get one before anyone else

Chocolate fans are in for a treat as Cadbury announces the return of the limited edition Twirl Orange bar .
The popular snack sold out when it first hit the shelves last year - but you can get your hands on it before it goes on sale in mid-September .
This week Cadbury will hold its first ever online pre-sale of a chocolate bar , so fans can get Twirl Orange weeks before the bars are available in stores .
To enjoy a nibble of the chocolate delight .
just visit Cadbury UK ’ s Twitter page at noon tomorrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday 20 August , so there are two chances to get involved .
Once the presale goes live , fans just need to tweet @ CadburyUK with the hashtag # TwirlOrangePresale to enter .
The first 5,000 people to tweet will be sent confirmation of their place in the queue and will be sent a unique single use redemption code with a link to where they can purchase their Twirl Orange .
This will then be sent with no postage charge and some surprise Twirl Orange collectibles .
Radhika Pai , Brand Manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are very excited to bring limited edition Twirl Orange back in the UK after the positive response it received last year .
`` It was clear our fans loved Twirl Orange , so we wanted to give people more chances to enjoy it , especially anyone that missed out last year .
`` The online presale means that everyone has a chance to get their hands on one , no matter where they are in the UK , from the comfort of their homes.
” If you miss out though , do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available to buy on shelf in stores nationwide from mid-September in 43g , 2 finger packs at 69p .

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Chocolate fans are in for a treat as Cadbury announces the return of the limited edition Twirl Orange bar.
The popular snack sold out when it first hit the shelves last year - but you can get your hands on it before it goes on sale in mid-September.
This week Cadbury will hold its first ever online pre-sale of a chocolate bar, so fans can get Twirl Orange weeks before the bars are available in stores.
To enjoy a nibble of the chocolate delight. just visit Cadbury UK’s Twitter page at noon tomorrow, Tuesday 18 August and also on Thursday 20 August, so there are two chances to get involved.
Once the presale goes live, fans just need to tweet @CadburyUK with the hashtag #TwirlOrangePresale to enter.
The first 5,000 people to tweet will be sent confirmation of their place in the queue and will be sent a unique single use redemption code with a link to where they can purchase their Twirl Orange.
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This will then be sent with no postage charge and some surprise Twirl Orange collectibles.
Radhika Pai, Brand Manager for Cadbury at Mondelez said: “We are very excited to bring limited edition Twirl Orange back in the UK after the positive response it received last year.
"It was clear our fans loved Twirl Orange, so we wanted to give people more chances to enjoy it, especially anyone that missed out last year.
"The online presale means that everyone has a chance to get their hands on one, no matter where they are in the UK, from the comfort of their homes.”
If you miss out though, don't fret as the bars will be available to buy on shelf in stores nationwide from mid-September in 43g, 2 finger packs at 69p.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Schoolboy, 15, attacked as large street brawl breaks out

A schoolboy was punched in the head and kicked as he fell to the floor as a massive brawl broke out in a city street .
The 15-year-old was assaulted by a group of men as around '30 people ' were seen fighting in Hob Moat Road , Solihull late on Saturday afternoon , August 15 .
Several marked police cars were seen parked in the car park of the Hob Meadow pub following the trouble at around 5.30pm .
A shopper , who watched the violence from his car , said at least three were left with 'blood all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He counted a total of eight police vehicles responding to the incident as he captured the above footage showing a shirtless man speaking with officers .
The witness , who did not wish to be named , told BirminghamLive : `` There were must have been about 25 to 30 people involved - probably teenagers more like - they were fighting .
`` I was by the fish bar and the police were there .
There was a police van and seven cars parked up .
`` It must have overspilled towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fathers of the kids had blood all over his face and the kid had blood all over his face as well .
There must have been at least three people with blood down their faces .
`` They all had consistent facial injuries .
That was at about 6pm , I was in my car at the time just out shopping .
It was like a war was going on .
`` I was n't sure if it had spilled out of the pub , but some of them did n't look old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Most of the kids looked between 16 to 18 . ''
A 57-year-old man was initially arrested on suspicion of wounding , but was later released with no further action .
Police are continuing to investigate and appeal for witnesses to come forward .
A statement from West Midlands Police read : `` We are investigating after a 15-year-old boy was attacked on Hobs Moat Road in Solihull at around 5.30pm on Saturday ( 15 August ) .
`` The boy was punched in the head and then kicked by a group of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` A 57-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of wounding has been released with no further action , as enquiries continue .
`` Anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or call 101 anytime .
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Quote crime reference 20SH/194173D/20 . ''

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A schoolboy was punched in the head and kicked as he fell to the floor as a massive brawl broke out in a city street.
The 15-year-old was assaulted by a group of men as around '30 people' were seen fighting in Hobs Moat Road, Solihull late on Saturday afternoon, August 15.
Several marked police cars were seen parked in the car park of the Hobs Meadow pub following the 5.30pm trouble - though the pub said the brawl did not involve customers.
A shopper, who watched the violence from his car, said at least three were left with 'blood all over their faces' in the incident.
He counted a total of eight police vehicles responding to the incident as he captured the above footage showing a shirtless man speaking with officers.
The witness, who did not wish to be named, told BirminghamLive: "There were must have been about 25 to 30 people involved - probably teenagers more like - they were fighting.
"I was by the fish bar and the police were there. There was a police van and seven cars parked up.
"It must have overspilled towards the ice rink. One of the fathers of the kids had blood all over his face and the kid had blood all over his face as well. There must have been at least three people with blood down their faces.
"They all had consistent facial injuries. That was at about 6pm, I was in my car at the time just out shopping. It was like a war was going on.
"I wasn't sure if it had spilled out of the pub, but some of them didn't look old enough to be in a pub. Most of the kids looked between 16 to 18."
A 57-year-old man was initially arrested on suspicion of wounding, but was later released with no further action.
Police are continuing to investigate and appeal for witnesses to come forward.
A statement from West Midlands Police read: "We are investigating after a 15-year-old boy was attacked on Hobs Moat Road in Solihull at around 5.30pm on Saturday (15 August).
"The boy was punched in the head and then kicked by a group of men as he fell to the floor.
"A 57-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of wounding has been released with no further action, as enquiries continue.
"Anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or call 101 anytime. Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111. Quote crime reference 20SH/194173D/20."
BirminghamLive has contacted Hob Meadow pub for a comment.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Urgent warning as Birmingham 'on road to lockdown' if Covid cases keep rising

Birmingham 's infection rate has more than doubled in a week - with more than 300 new cases .
Director of public health Dr Justin Varney said it was likely the city would feature in the national `` watch list '' of places most at risk of intervention within days , with no sign of the current rise in cases easing off .
There have been 321 new cases in the past week .
`` We could very easily be in a situation like we have seen in Leicester and Greater Manchester , '' he said this morning .
Both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health secretary Matt Hancock after seeing sustained spikes in infection .
His concern has been triggered by a rapidly rising rate of infections across the city .
At the start of the month the city had an infection rate of around 12 cases per 100,000 of the population .
That rose to 24 by the end of last week , and today stands at 'around 30 ' , he warned .
That was in part due to more people being tested - but there was a real rise in infection transmission , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Varney said : `` Looking at the national pattern , we have now overtaken Sandwell ( which was on a list of most concerning locations ) - it would not surprise me if Birmingham joins that list . ''
He said it was vital that people heeded advice and guidance and stopped flouting recommendations designed to keep the most vulnerable safe .
`` There is much that concerns me , '' he said .
He cited examples of people `` planning large wedding receptions that they are trying to hide and keep secret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go to the same restuarant at the same time '' - this refers to complaints heard at BirminghamLive that venues around the city are permitting large gatherings to take place .
He also voiced his frustration about growing numbers of illegal parties and street raves - among them a gathering of hundreds in the heart of the city this weekend .
West Midlands police attended around 125 gatherings last weekend , and received 3,000 calls with complaints .
Dr Varney 's plea was to everyone to be aware that the virus `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as infectious - but even if that message did not land with some people , he warned a local lockdown would also affect jobs and livelihoods .
`` If we have to go back into lockdown local businesses will suffer too .
It 's about jobs , about kids being able to get back to school - the decisions we make now have an impact on all of those things . ''
How close are we to lockdown ?
The city 's infection rate is around 30 - that contrasts with Leicester , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions were imposed .
But it is now alarmingly close to the situation in Blackburn with Darwen borough , where significant restrictions were reintroduced when the rate there reached around 50 .
It 's why public health chiefs , councils and business leaders are reinforcing key messages and urging people to take urgent steps , including : * If you have symptoms , get a test - and isolate until that test arrives and the result is received .
Contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS website to order a test .
* @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection among employees , seek help quickly from your local outbreak team and via Public Health England * Increase in number of incidents in workplaces as more go back to work and employees are not being as Covid safe as they should be .
`` What we are hearing when we talk to them ( after reports of a small outbreak ) is that when people are doing their jobs they are keeping the 2m distance , but when they go for a cigarette break , or lunch , or leave work , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are seeing this is also about family gatherings .
People are coming together , forgetting to keep their distance , and giving a hug or a handshake - and giving Covid with it .
`` We have seen some clusters of people in the same extended family but living in different households who are sharing infection '' - and that 's putting older , more vulnerable people at risk .
`` There is much that concerns me - whether people planning large wedding receptions that they are trying to hide and keep secret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go to the same restuarant at the same time ; or holding illegal parties and street raves .
`` This virus can still kill people and still just as infectious . ''
* People with symptoms still going to work and socialising with others , despite clear guidance to isolate immediately you have symptoms to avoid infecting others .
`` Go on the NHS website , book a test , and stay home until you have the result . ''

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Birmingham's infection rate has more than doubled in a week - with more than 300 new cases.
Director of public health Dr Justin Varney said it was likely the city would feature in the national "watch list" of places most at risk of intervention within days, with no sign of the current rise in cases easing off.
There have been 321 new cases in the past week.
"We could very easily be in a situation like we have seen in Leicester and Greater Manchester," he said this morning.
Both areas have had lockdown restrictions imposed by health secretary Matt Hancock after seeing sustained spikes in infection.
His concern has been triggered by a rapidly rising rate of infections across the city.
At the start of the month the city had an infection rate of around 12 cases per 100,000 of the population. That rose to 24 by the end of last week, and today stands at 'around 30', he warned.
That was in part due to more people being tested - but there was a real rise in infection transmission, he said.
Speaking this morning, Dr Varney said: "Looking at the national pattern, we have now overtaken Sandwell (which was on a list of most concerning locations) - it would not surprise me if Birmingham joins that list."
He said it was vital that people heeded advice and guidance and stopped flouting recommendations designed to keep the most vulnerable safe.
"There is much that concerns me," he said.
He cited examples of people "planning large wedding receptions that they are trying to hide and keep secret, and pass off as people happening to go to the same restuarant at the same time" - this refers to complaints heard at BirminghamLive that venues around the city are permitting large gatherings to take place.
He also voiced his frustration about growing numbers of illegal parties and street raves - among them a gathering of hundreds in the heart of the city this weekend.
West Midlands police attended around 125 gatherings last weekend, and received 3,000 calls with complaints.
Dr Varney's plea was to everyone to be aware that the virus "still kills" and is still just as infectious - but even if that message did not land with some people, he warned a local lockdown would also affect jobs and livelihoods.
"If we have to go back into lockdown local businesses will suffer too. It's about jobs, about kids being able to get back to school - the decisions we make now have an impact on all of those things."
How close are we to lockdown?
The city's infection rate is around 30 - that contrasts with Leicester, which peaked at over 100 before lockdown restrictions were imposed.
But it is now alarmingly close to the situation in Blackburn with Darwen borough, where significant restrictions were reintroduced when the rate there reached around 50.
It's why public health chiefs, councils and business leaders are reinforcing key messages and urging people to take urgent steps, including:
* If you have symptoms, get a test - and isolate until that test arrives and the result is received. Contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS website to order a test.
* If you are an employer and suspect infection among employees, seek help quickly from your local outbreak team and via Public Health England
What is driving increase?
* Increase in number of incidents in workplaces as more go back to work and employees are not being as Covid safe as they should be.
"What we are hearing when we talk to them (after reports of a small outbreak) is that when people are doing their jobs they are keeping the 2m distance, but when they go for a cigarette break, or lunch, or leave work, they are not."
* Extended family gatherings
"We are seeing this is also about family gatherings. People are coming together, forgetting to keep their distance, and giving a hug or a handshake - and giving Covid with it.
"We have seen some clusters of people in the same extended family but living in different households who are sharing infection" - and that's putting older, more vulnerable people at risk.
* Larger gatherings
"There is much that concerns me - whether people planning large wedding receptions that they are trying to hide and keep secret, and pass off as people happening to go to the same restuarant at the same time; or holding illegal parties and street raves.
"This virus can still kill people and still just as infectious."
* People with symptoms still going to work and socialising with others , despite clear guidance to isolate immediately you have symptoms to avoid infecting others.
"Go on the NHS website, book a test, and stay home until you have the result."


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Girl, 17, charged after Pershore Road bus stop crash

A 17-year-old girl has been charged after a crash at a bus stop which left four people injured - including one woman who suffered a broken pelvis .
West Midlands Police was called to Pershore Road in Selly Park shortly after 1pm on Friday , August 14 .
The force responded to reports of a Renault Captur being allegedly driven at a 19-year-old man and a 16-year-old girl following an argument .
The vehicle then collided with a bus stop , injuring two more people .
All four casualties were taken to hospital for treatment .
A 58-year-old woman suffered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operation , the force said .
The three others suffered cuts , scrapes and bruises .
The 17-year-old , who can not be named for legal reasons , was charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving and two counts of wounding with intent .
She was due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates ' Court today , Monday , August 17 .
West Midlands Ambulance Service sent three ambulances and a paramedic officer to the scene .
Anyone with information on the incident should contact police on the Live Chat facility at www.west-midlands.police.uk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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A 17-year-old girl has been charged after a crash at a bus stop which left four people injured - including one woman who suffered a broken pelvis.
West Midlands Police was called to Pershore Road in Selly Park shortly after 1pm on Friday, August 14. The force responded to reports of a Renault Captur being allegedly driven at a 19-year-old man and a 16-year-old girl following an argument. The vehicle then collided with a bus stop, injuring two more people.
All four casualties were taken to hospital for treatment.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
A 58-year-old woman suffered a shattered pelvis and will require an operation, the force said. The three others suffered cuts, scrapes and bruises.
The 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving and two counts of wounding with intent. She was due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court today, Monday, August 17.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
West Midlands Ambulance Service sent three ambulances and a paramedic officer to the scene.
Pictures also showed investigators examining the Renault.
Anyone with information on the incident should contact police on the Live Chat facility at www.west-midlands.police.uk or by calling the force on 101.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Appeal over missing teen with links to the Midlands

Police have issued an appeal for a missing teenage girl who may be in Worcestershire .
Rehem Khimir , aged 15 , went missing from her home last Wednesday ( August 12 ) and could be in the Malvern area .
The teenager , who is also known as Ray , lives in Bicester , Oxfordshire , but has links to several places across the country , including Malvern .
Thames Valley Police have issued the appeal , which is being shared by West Mercia Police .
They said Rehem was last seen in Bicester last Wednesday evening .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Oxford , Slough , Reading and Yorkshire .
When she disappeared she was wearing a grey top , green shorts and white and black striped trainers .
She also has a gold nose stud .
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said : `` We are sharing this appeal on behalf of our Bicester colleagues .
`` Have you seen Rehem Khimir ?
She is also known as Ray and is aged 15 and she may be in the Malvern area . ''
Anyone who sees Rehem , or knows where she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 101 and ask for Thames Valley Police , quoting reference 43200249604 .

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Police have issued an appeal for a missing teenage girl who may be in Worcestershire.
Rehem Khimir, aged 15, went missing from her home last Wednesday (August 12) and could be in the Malvern area.
The teenager, who is also known as Ray, lives in Bicester, Oxfordshire, but has links to several places across the country, including Malvern.
Thames Valley Police have issued the appeal, which is being shared by West Mercia Police.
They said Rehem was last seen in Bicester last Wednesday evening. She is known to frequent Malvern, Swindon, Oxford, Slough, Reading and Yorkshire.
When she disappeared she was wearing a grey top, green shorts and white and black striped trainers. She also has a gold nose stud.
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "We are sharing this appeal on behalf of our Bicester colleagues.
"Have you seen Rehem Khimir? She is also known as Ray and is aged 15 and she may be in the Malvern area."
Anyone who sees Rehem, or knows where she might be, is asked to call 101 and ask for Thames Valley Police, quoting reference 43200249604.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Cause of Cadbury Club fire in Bournville revealed

The cause of a major fire at the Cadbury Club has been revealed by the fire service .
Fifty firefighters were on scene at the community hub in Bournville to tackle the severe blaze after it broke out on Friday evening , August 14 .
Residents from nearby buildings were evacuated for their safety , with members of the public warned to avoid the area .
Restrictions were put in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road as fire crews probed the cause of the blaze .
Twelve firefighters remained on scene on Saturday morning as a couple spoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their wedding reception venue .
The blaze has also caused sadness with the club 's 400 members and wider community .
Now , three days on , West Midlands Fire Service has confirmed the fire started accidentally .
It is believed the fire sparked after an electrical fault in a light fitting , the service added .
An update from crews on Monday , August 17 , read : `` Our investigators say Friday 's fire at the Cadbury Club in Bournville Birmingham started accidentally .
`` It is believed to have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ light fitting . ''

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The cause of a major fire at the Cadbury Club has been revealed by the fire service.
Fifty firefighters were on scene at the community hub in Bournville to tackle the severe blaze after it broke out on Friday evening, August 14.
Residents from nearby buildings were evacuated for their safety, with members of the public warned to avoid the area.
Restrictions were put in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road as fire crews probed the cause of the blaze.
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Twelve firefighters remained on scene on Saturday morning as a couple spoke of their devastation over the loss of their wedding reception venue.
The blaze has also caused sadness with the club's 400 members and wider community.
Now, three days on, West Midlands Fire Service has confirmed the fire started accidentally.
It is believed the fire sparked after an electrical fault in a light fitting, the service added.
An update from crews on Monday, August 17, read: "Our investigators say Friday's fire at the Cadbury Club in Bournville Birmingham started accidentally.
"It is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault in a light fitting."


birminghammail--2020-08-17--This is the UK's cheapest supermarket

This is the UK's cheapest supermarket

We all want to save money on our supermarket bills but which one offers the best value ?
From Asda , Aldi , Tesco , Morrisons , Sainsbury 's or your local store , we all have our favourites and now a new study has indicated which supermarket was actually the cheapest in July this year .
A shopping trolley filled with 167 items including own-brand items , such as eggs , milk and bread was compared by consumer experts Which ?
, reports the M.E.N .
The organisation also included pasta and some branded items such as Hovis bread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out the winner with a basket total of £78.50 but fellow German chain Lidl was just behind with a basket at £79.46 .
Waitrose 's basket was the most expensive with a price of £122.47 and just behind came Ocado with a basket price of £117.85 .
This is the full price breakdown for supermarket prices in July : According to Which ?
: `` Groceries with the biggest price differences included own-label prawns ( where there was a £3.34 difference between Aldi and Waitrose ) and own-label chicken drumsticks , which had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to branded groceries , the biggest difference was in a popular pizza brand , which cost 75p more at Waitrose than Aldi . ''

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We all want to save money on our supermarket bills but which one offers the best value?
From Asda, Aldi, Tesco, Morrisons, Sainsbury's or your local store, we all have our favourites and now a new study has indicated which supermarket was actually the cheapest in July this year.
A shopping trolley filled with 167 items including own-brand items, such as eggs, milk and bread was compared by consumer experts Which?, reports the M.E.N.
The organisation also included pasta and some branded items such as Hovis bread in the price comparison.
Aldi came out the winner with a basket total of £78.50 but fellow German chain Lidl was just behind with a basket at £79.46.
Waitrose's basket was the most expensive with a price of £122.47 and just behind came Ocado with a basket price of £117.85.
This is the full price breakdown for supermarket prices in July:
Aldi - £78.50
- £78.50 Lidl - £79.46
- £79.46 Asda - £88.29
- £88.29 Tesco - £98.48
- £98.48 Morrisons - £99.30
- £99.30 Sainsbury's - £103.26
- £103.26 Ocado - £117.85
- £117.85 Waitrose - £122.47
According to Which?: "Groceries with the biggest price differences included own-label prawns (where there was a £3.34 difference between Aldi and Waitrose) and own-label chicken drumsticks, which had a £1.48 difference. When it came to branded groceries, the biggest difference was in a popular pizza brand, which cost 75p more at Waitrose than Aldi."


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Fresh update on Joe Williams amid West Brom transfer links

Leeds United have joined West Bromwich Albion in the race for Wigan Athletic midfielder Joe Williams , according to reports .
Williams is expected to be on the move in the summer transfer window after Wigan were relegated to League One .
The 23-year-old made 38 appearances in the Championship last season as the Latics were hit with a points deduction for going into administration and subsequently slipped into the bottom three .
Albion were linked with the former Everton player earlier this month and Football Insider reports Leeds are now keen .
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Google Play Store and App Store Marcelo Bielsa 's side , like Albion , are targeting a number of signings having pipped the Baggies to the Championship title .
The report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a deal ' for Williams - who is expected to cost around £1.5m - having already raided Wigan for forward Joe Gelhardt .
Williams has two years left on his contract at the DW Stadium having signed on a permanent from Everton last summer .
Slaven Bilic and his team steered West Brom back to the promised land after a two-year exile when they claimed second place in the final day draw with Queens Park Rangers .

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Leeds United have joined West Bromwich Albion in the race for Wigan Athletic midfielder Joe Williams, according to reports.
Williams is expected to be on the move in the summer transfer window after Wigan were relegated to League One.
The 23-year-old made 38 appearances in the Championship last season as the Latics were hit with a points deduction for going into administration and subsequently slipped into the bottom three.
Albion were linked with the former Everton player earlier this month and Football Insider reports Leeds are now keen.
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 .
Marcelo Bielsa's side, like Albion, are targeting a number of signings having pipped the Baggies to the Championship title.
The report states the Whites have 'set their sights on a deal' for Williams - who is expected to cost around £1.5m - having already raided Wigan for forward Joe Gelhardt.
Williams has two years left on his contract at the DW Stadium having signed on a permanent from Everton last summer.
Slaven Bilic and his team steered West Brom back to the promised land after a two-year exile when they claimed second place in the final day draw with Queens Park Rangers.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--First look at plan for thousands of trees at this Solihull site

Thousands of trees will be planted at a memorial woodland in Solihull , with confirmation that work is set to start before the end of the year .
Back in February Solihull Council 's ruling Conservative group had announced plans to plant part of the greenbelt land between Shirley and Dickens Heath .
Until last year the site had been earmarked for hundreds of new homes , but a spirited campaign from the local community saw the hugely unpopular housing plan ditched .
Senior councillors now hope that the area will offer a place of `` remembrance '' and help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And the project will form part of a wider plan to plant a quarter of a million trees across the borough by the end of the decade .
Although Green councillors have warned that local vegetation is still being lost to development at an alarming rate and this had to be taken into account .
Fleshing out the plans , Cllr Ken Hawkins , cabinet member for the environment and highways , said : `` It is going to be a project over several years .
`` Since we have started planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's only appropriate that there is some sort of memorial for what we have gone through .
`` I 'm sure that people want a place to remember local people and somewhere they can go to contemplate . ''
Asked about the likely size of the plantation , he said : `` Certainly thousands of trees .
`` It 's not going to be a small copse , we are talking about a substantial woodland . ''
Discussions will be held with parish councils , residents ' groups and local schools , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ design of the site and its eventual name .
The first trees are likely to be put in the ground within months ; the planting season typically runs from the autumn to early March .
Cllr Max McLoughlin ( Green , Shirley South ) said : `` I ’ m really glad that the Conservatives finally listened to our calls from the community and that they recognise the need for trees to be planted .
Aside from the main woodland , to the south of Shirley , plans are also underway to create @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cllr Karen Grinsell , deputy leader of the council , said it was intended to have a range of plots in different neighbourhoods .
Some of these are likely to be created in existing parks , although in wards without a suitable open space other options will be looked at .
`` We have got friends of parks groups , residents ' groups and ward councillors we will be contacting , so everyone can have a say , '' she said .
While not all the projects would be `` grand '' affairs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the option of using money from the Community Infrastructure Levy ( CIL ) - a pot of cash from nearby housing developments - to fund more ambitious plans .
`` There does need to be an assessment of the impact on wildlife that currently thrive in the area .
`` Equally , there needs to be a commitment on tree planting that we have a net gain of 250,000 .
`` We ’ re losing trees to development at an extraordinary rate .
If we lose 300,000 trees over the same period we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The environment we depend on can ’ t afford that . ''
Solihull 's main opposition has also pointed out that , while one piece of land has been saved , there are now housing plans for a neighbouring site , at Woods Farm .

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Thousands of trees will be planted at a memorial woodland in Solihull, with confirmation that work is set to start before the end of the year.
Back in February Solihull Council's ruling Conservative group had announced plans to plant part of the greenbelt land between Shirley and Dickens Heath.
Until last year the site had been earmarked for hundreds of new homes, but a spirited campaign from the local community saw the hugely unpopular housing plan ditched.
Senior councillors now hope that the area will offer a place of "remembrance" and help honour lives lost during the coronavirus pandemic.
And the project will form part of a wider plan to plant a quarter of a million trees across the borough by the end of the decade.
Although Green councillors have warned that local vegetation is still being lost to development at an alarming rate and this had to be taken into account.
Fleshing out the plans, Cllr Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for the environment and highways, said: "It is going to be a project over several years.
"Since we have started planning, Covid has impacted on us and it's only appropriate that there is some sort of memorial for what we have gone through.
(Image: Solihull Conservatives)
"I'm sure that people want a place to remember local people and somewhere they can go to contemplate."
Asked about the likely size of the plantation, he said: "Certainly thousands of trees.
"It's not going to be a small copse, we are talking about a substantial woodland."
Discussions will be held with parish councils, residents' groups and local schools, in hope they can contribute to the design of the site and its eventual name.
The first trees are likely to be put in the ground within months; the planting season typically runs from the autumn to early March.
Cllr Max McLoughlin (Green, Shirley South) said: "I’m really glad that the Conservatives finally listened to our calls from the community and that they recognise the need for trees to be planted.
Remembrance gardens: Aside from the main woodland, to the south of Shirley, plans are also underway to create smaller memorial gardens around the borough. Cllr Karen Grinsell, deputy leader of the council, said it was intended to have a range of plots in different neighbourhoods. Some of these are likely to be created in existing parks, although in wards without a suitable open space other options will be looked at. "We have got friends of parks groups, residents' groups and ward councillors we will be contacting, so everyone can have a say," she said. While not all the projects would be "grand" affairs, Cllr Grinsell said communities could have the option of using money from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - a pot of cash from nearby housing developments - to fund more ambitious plans.
"There does need to be an assessment of the impact on wildlife that currently thrive in the area.
"Equally, there needs to be a commitment on tree planting that we have a net gain of 250,000.
"We’re losing trees to development at an extraordinary rate. If we lose 300,000 trees over the same period we’ll still be moving backwards. The environment we depend on can’t afford that."
Solihull's main opposition has also pointed out that, while one piece of land has been saved, there are now housing plans for a neighbouring site, at Woods Farm.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Greece could be next on UK's quarantine list as coronavirus cases soar

Greece could be the next nation to be dropped from the government 's 'safe ' list of countries after a spike in coronavirus cases .
Holidaymakers would have to quarantine for 14 days if the move went ahead , reports the Mirror .
Just a week ago the government announced that travellers arriving from France would have to self-isolate for two weeks after a jump in cases in the country .
The popular hotspot of Greece has seen cases of the deadly virus quadrupled in two weeks .
The figure means it is now above the UK 's benchmark number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government says this is the number that triggers quarantine measures .
The news comes following reports that Turkey and Croatia could be next on the list of countries to be taken off the 'safe ' travel list .
Travellers arriving back into the UK from the Netherlands , Monaco , Malta , Turks and Caicos , and Aruba have already been told to self-isolate for 14 days .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has previously said quarantine measures will be activated against travellers arriving from nations with more than 20 infections per 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Shapps told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme last week : `` With France and these other countries , the Netherlands and elsewhere , the numbers have now just got above the threshold - which is about 20 cases per 100,000 measured on a seven day rolling average .
`` That 's what the Joint Biosecurity Centre will be looking at . ''
The travel industry has been dealt a blow already with British tourists forced to quarantine after Spain , France and Portugal were put on the quarantine list .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Greece could be the next nation to be dropped from the government's 'safe' list of countries after a spike in coronavirus cases.
Holidaymakers would have to quarantine for 14 days if the move went ahead, reports the Mirror.
Just a week ago the government announced that travellers arriving from France would have to self-isolate for two weeks after a jump in cases in the country.
The popular hotspot of Greece has seen cases of the deadly virus quadrupled in two weeks.
The figure means it is now above the UK's benchmark number of 20 cases per 100,000 people - the government says this is the number that triggers quarantine measures.
The news comes following reports that Turkey and Croatia could be next on the list of countries to be taken off the 'safe' travel list.
Travellers arriving back into the UK from the Netherlands, Monaco, Malta, Turks and Caicos, and Aruba have already been told to self-isolate for 14 days.
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Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has previously said quarantine measures will be activated against travellers arriving from nations with more than 20 infections per 100,000, on a seven day rolling average.
Mr Shapps told BBC Radio 4's Today programme last week: "With France and these other countries, the Netherlands and elsewhere, the numbers have now just got above the threshold - which is about 20 cases per 100,000 measured on a seven day rolling average.
"That's what the Joint Biosecurity Centre will be looking at."
The travel industry has been dealt a blow already with British tourists forced to quarantine after Spain, France and Portugal were put on the quarantine list.
Greece had been deemed safe for tourists.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Elderly woman falls down lift shaft at nursing home

An elderly woman fell down a lift shaft at a nursing home in Sutton Coldfield after faulty doors allowed her to enter from the top floor .
Emergency services were called to the scene on Birmingham Road around 5.30am this morning , Monday , August 17 .
Ten firefighters from Sutton Coldfield and Erdington stations attended to rescue the woman , who is in her 80s .
She had fallen from the second floor on to the top of the lift which was on the ground floor .
Sutton Coldfield Fire also Tweeted about the incident .
The post said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SuttonCfld_Fire @ ErdingtonFire @ OFFICIALWMAS this morning to rescue an elderly lady who had fell down a lift shaft after the doors had malfunctioned allowing her to enter from the top floor # ReadyWillingAble . ''
West Midlands Ambulance Service attended and transported her to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital .
A spokesman from West Midlands Fire Service said : `` This call was at 5.34am on Monday morning ( August 17 ) .
It was a call to a nursing home in Birmingham Road , Sutton Coldfield .
“ The report was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We sent two crews , one from Erdington and one from Sutton Coldfield , with a total of 10 firefighters .
The first crew was there in just over four minutes .
`` A lady in her 80s appears to have fallen from the second floor on to the top of the lift at ground floor level .
The ambulance service attended .
We left the incident with the home and a lift engineer who was on scene . ''
An ambulance spokeswoman added : `` We were called at 5.28am by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sutton Coldfield .
One ambulance , a paramedic officer , a MERIT trauma doctor and HART paramedics attended .
`` Crews arrived to find a woman who had reportedly fallen down a lift shaft .
She was given trauma care at the scene before being taken to the Queen Elizabeth for further treatment . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Nick Horner, Carl Jackson)

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An elderly woman fell down a lift shaft at a nursing home in Sutton Coldfield after faulty doors allowed her to enter from the top floor.
Emergency services were called to the scene on Birmingham Road around 5.30am this morning, Monday, August 17. Ten firefighters from Sutton Coldfield and Erdington stations attended to rescue the woman, who is in her 80s.
She had fallen from the second floor on to the top of the lift which was on the ground floor.
Sutton Coldfield Fire also Tweeted about the incident. The post said: "An assertive response from @SuttonCfld_Fire @ErdingtonFire @OFFICIALWMAS this morning to rescue an elderly lady who had fell down a lift shaft after the doors had malfunctioned allowing her to enter from the top floor #ReadyWillingAble."
West Midlands Ambulance Service attended and transported her to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
A spokesman from West Midlands Fire Service said: "This call was at 5.34am on Monday morning (August 17). It was a call to a nursing home in Birmingham Road, Sutton Coldfield.
“The report was a woman had fallen into a lift shaft. We sent two crews, one from Erdington and one from Sutton Coldfield, with a total of 10 firefighters. The first crew was there in just over four minutes.
"A lady in her 80s appears to have fallen from the second floor on to the top of the lift at ground floor level. The ambulance service attended. We left the incident with the home and a lift engineer who was on scene."
An ambulance spokeswoman added: "We were called at 5.28am by the fire service to Birmingham Road, Sutton Coldfield. One ambulance, a paramedic officer, a MERIT trauma doctor and HART paramedics attended.
"Crews arrived to find a woman who had reportedly fallen down a lift shaft. She was given trauma care at the scene before being taken to the Queen Elizabeth for further treatment."


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Ollie Watkins laughs off Aston Villa transfer talk at airport

Aston Villa transfer target Ollie Watkins has given Aston Villa supporters the thumbs-up - after posing for photograph on his return back to the UK .
The 26-goal Brentford ace was spotted by eagle-eyed Villa fan Daz Hassall at Thessaloniki Airport after holidaying on the Greek island of Mykonos .
Watkins , 24 , is wanted by his former boss Dean Smith as the Villa chief looks to add firepower up front ahead of the Premier League return next month .
Why should you sign up ?
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 do n't think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '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 The striker had another sterling campaign in the Championship and helped the Bees to within a whisker of promotion but for play-off heartache against Fulham .
As for Brentford , they value their goal-getter at £25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at just under £20 million with negotiations set to continue this week .
Regarding Watkins , he 's currently flying back into Heathrow Airport - not Birmingham - while , before his flight , bashfully spoke to Villa fan Daz who could n't resist to ask THAT Aston Villa question .
Daz put it to the forward about moving to Villa Park , with Watkins smiling and laughing it off as he refused to give an answer .
He was more than happy to pose for a quick snap , though , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thumbs up means his coming ! ''
Smith , Jack Grealish and co will return to training at Bodymoor Heath tomorrow ( Tuesday ) prior to a four-week fitness camp ahead of the big return .
Regarding transfers , Smith , chief executive Christian Purslow and new sporting director Johan Lange are expected to make their moves for top targets - Watkins included - this week .
You can read our in-depth scouting piece on what Watkins would bring to Villa HERE .
Stay up to date with our dedicated Aston Villa transfer @ @ @

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Aston Villa transfer target Ollie Watkins has given Aston Villa supporters the thumbs-up - after posing for photograph on his return back to the UK.
The 26-goal Brentford ace was spotted by eagle-eyed Villa fan Daz Hassall at Thessaloniki Airport after holidaying on the Greek island of Mykonos.
Watkins, 24, is wanted by his former boss Dean Smith as the Villa chief looks to add firepower up front ahead of the Premier League return next month.
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
The striker had another sterling campaign in the Championship and helped the Bees to within a whisker of promotion but for play-off heartache against Fulham.
As for Brentford, they value their goal-getter at £25 million while Smith and Villa rate Watkins at just under £20 million with negotiations set to continue this week.
Regarding Watkins, he's currently flying back into Heathrow Airport - not Birmingham - while, before his flight, bashfully spoke to Villa fan Daz who couldn't resist to ask THAT Aston Villa question.
Daz put it to the forward about moving to Villa Park, with Watkins smiling and laughing it off as he refused to give an answer. He was more than happy to pose for a quick snap, though, with Daz telling us: "Maybe the thumbs up means his coming!"
Smith, Jack Grealish and co will return to training at Bodymoor Heath tomorrow (Tuesday) prior to a four-week fitness camp ahead of the big return.
Regarding transfers, Smith, chief executive Christian Purslow and new sporting director Johan Lange are expected to make their moves for top targets - Watkins included - this week. You can read our in-depth scouting piece on what Watkins would bring to Villa HERE.
Stay up to date with our dedicated Aston Villa transfer blog HERE.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Aston Villa's Aaron Ramsdale transfer link makes complete sense

Aston Villa 's shock interest in Bournemouth 's Aaron Ramsdale appears to be hotting up - despite Sheffield United already having a bid in the region of £18.5 million accepted .
Various reports today have outlined how Dean Smith 's looking to hijack United 's keeper move as Chris Wilder looks to replace Dean Henderson who 's since returned to parent club Manchester United .
As for Villa 's interest , it appears genuine and makes total sense given a string of telling factors .
No.1 Tom Heaton is n't expected to be fit for the Premier League curtain-raiser on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Smith is n't totally sold on either Orjan Nyland or Jed Steer in the Premier League .
Nyland , if you remember , was bombed out of the starting XI after ricks that almost cost Villa in games against Sheffield United and Wolves two months ago .
The Norwegian 's contract will expire next June , too , and , as it stands , he wo n't be offered a fresh deal , meaning his disappointing Villa career is drawing to an end .
As for Steer , he 's back after a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the defeat to Wolves .
The 27-year-old signed a new four-year deal last summer and represents a solid back-up option for Heaton ahead of the new campaign .
Villa 's interest in Stoke-born Ramsdale , meanwhile , ticks a lot of boxes .
He was a star performer for struggling Bournemouth last term , impressed Smith and goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler throughout and was awarded their player of the season having only missed one Premier League game for the Cherries .
The England under-21 international - via WhoScored - had a 67.5 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two goalkeepers made more saves than Ramsdale ( 125 ) in the Premier League in 2019/20 .
The youngster also made more saves than Villa 's four goalkeepers ( 116 ) combined last season .
With this potential deal , it hints at Smith preparing for the future with Heaton , 34 , at the tail-end of his career .
There will be injury concerns over the England stopper , too , and Smith will want a durable and proven Premier League goalkeeper to provide Heaton with stiff competition and , after his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of the necessary credentials in abundance .
Make no mistake , Heaton will be seen as Villa 's No.1 for the foreseeable future but a signing of Ramsdale 's ilk will be a shrewd move given his age ( 22 ) , ability and development to grow into a future England international .
Last summer , Smith made a huge statement by telling everybody how his No.1 priority was to sign a goalkeeper with Premier League nous while he continued to admit how he was desperate for more Premier League experience sprinkled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In short , though , you can see why there are loud noises coming from Villa 's interest in Ramsdale .
They seriously struggled without Heaton last term and need real quality between the posts should the current No.1 not be fit in time for the start of the season .
The fee for Ramsdale ( £18.5 million ) appears hefty but goalkeepers of his ability are priceless while his young age represents it would be a deal that 's seen as a long-term one , meaning the ex-Wimbledon man could well be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ahead .
He 's a talented boy and talent comes at a price .
Villa 's goalkeeping situation needs addressing , too .
It 's a deal that works for me , but Villa must act quick to stop Wilder landing his man .

Aston Villa's shock interest in Bournemouth's Aaron Ramsdale appears to be hotting up - despite Sheffield United already having a bid in the region of £18.5 million accepted.
Various reports today have outlined how Dean Smith's looking to hijack United's keeper move as Chris Wilder looks to replace Dean Henderson who's since returned to parent club Manchester United.
As for Villa's interest, it appears genuine and makes total sense given a string of telling factors. No.1 Tom Heaton isn't expected to be fit for the Premier League curtain-raiser on September 12 while, in reserve, Smith isn't totally sold on either Orjan Nyland or Jed Steer in the Premier League.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Nyland, if you remember, was bombed out of the starting XI after ricks that almost cost Villa in games against Sheffield United and Wolves two months ago. The Norwegian's contract will expire next June, too, and, as it stands, he won't be offered a fresh deal, meaning his disappointing Villa career is drawing to an end.
As for Steer, he's back after a nasty Achilles injury sustained last November in the defeat to Wolves. The 27-year-old signed a new four-year deal last summer and represents a solid back-up option for Heaton ahead of the new campaign.
Villa's interest in Stoke-born Ramsdale, meanwhile, ticks a lot of boxes. He was a star performer for struggling Bournemouth last term, impressed Smith and goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler throughout and was awarded their player of the season having only missed one Premier League game for the Cherries.
The England under-21 international - via WhoScored - had a 67.5 per cent save success rate, while only two goalkeepers made more saves than Ramsdale (125) in the Premier League in 2019/20. The youngster also made more saves than Villa's four goalkeepers (116) combined last season.
With this potential deal, it hints at Smith preparing for the future with Heaton, 34, at the tail-end of his career. There will be injury concerns over the England stopper, too, and Smith will want a durable and proven Premier League goalkeeper to provide Heaton with stiff competition and, after his breakthrough year last season, Ramsdale has all of the necessary credentials in abundance.
Make no mistake, Heaton will be seen as Villa's No.1 for the foreseeable future but a signing of Ramsdale's ilk will be a shrewd move given his age (22), ability and development to grow into a future England international.
Last summer, Smith made a huge statement by telling everybody how his No.1 priority was to sign a goalkeeper with Premier League nous while he continued to admit how he was desperate for more Premier League experience sprinkled over his young and naive squad.
In short, though, you can see why there are loud noises coming from Villa's interest in Ramsdale. They seriously struggled without Heaton last term and need real quality between the posts should the current No.1 not be fit in time for the start of the season.
The fee for Ramsdale (£18.5 million) appears hefty but goalkeepers of his ability are priceless while his young age represents it would be a deal that's seen as a long-term one, meaning the ex-Wimbledon man could well be seen as Villa's No.1 for the years ahead. He's a talented boy and talent comes at a price. Villa's goalkeeping situation needs addressing, too. It's a deal that works for me, but Villa must act quick to stop Wilder landing his man.


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Turkey Twizzlers return with two new flavours

Youngsters - and their parents - across the country are set to rejoice as the iconic Turkey Twizzlers are making a comeback .
Bernard Matthews has finally confirmed the return of its much-missed Turkey Twizzlers after weeks of hints on social media , writes the Express .
The food was a must-have for many nineties kids and were regularly on school dinner menus .
But after celebrity chef Jamie Oliver campaigned to make school lunches more healthy on his Channel 4 series Jamie ’ s School Dinners , the twists were dropped by makers Bernard Matthews .
The food contained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high fat content with the meat bulked up with water , pork fat , rusk and coating .
There was also a high proportion of additives , sweeteners , and flavourings .
Bernard Matthews initially lowered the salt and fat content but then dropped the product although it still sold other turkey-based products such as turkey dinosaurs , unicorns and mini kievs .
But desperate fans of Twizzlers missed the spirals and campaigned to bring them back and now , after 15 years , the teatime favourite will be back in stores this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The makers say they will be “ healthier and tastier than ever ” and the new recipe will see lower saturated fats and calories .
Two new flavours will also be available - Original Tangy Tomato and Chilli Cheese , both cost £3 for a pack of eight .
Nutritionist , Dr Sarah Schenker said : “ Turkey Twizzlers have listened to the public and completely transformed themselves into a much-improved product .
`` They now have a nutritional profile they can be confident in .
High in good quality protein and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sugar .
You can create a balanced meal by teaming them with plenty of veg such as a corn on the cob and broccoli.
” Bernard Matthews took to social media recently to tease fans of the product 's return and the account was soon trending .
One user said : `` Omg I have literally waited years and I ca n't cope if this is what I think it is , ” tweeted one .
Another posted : `` If Turkey Twizzlers are coming back then I am clearing out my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will be filling every single draw [ sic ] with them.
” Others wrote : “ Turkey twizzlers coming back to defeat jamie oliver needs to be a movie , please make this a movie .
”

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Youngsters - and their parents - across the country are set to rejoice as the iconic Turkey Twizzlers are making a comeback.
Bernard Matthews has finally confirmed the return of its much-missed Turkey Twizzlers after weeks of hints on social media, writes the Express.
The food was a must-have for many nineties kids and were regularly on school dinner menus.
But after celebrity chef Jamie Oliver campaigned to make school lunches more healthy on his Channel 4 series Jamie’s School Dinners, the twists were dropped by makers Bernard Matthews.
The food contained just 34 percent turkey and had a high fat content with the meat bulked up with water, pork fat, rusk and coating.
There was also a high proportion of additives, sweeteners, and flavourings.
Bernard Matthews initially lowered the salt and fat content but then dropped the product although it still sold other turkey-based products such as turkey dinosaurs, unicorns and mini kievs.
But desperate fans of Twizzlers missed the spirals and campaigned to bring them back and now, after 15 years, the teatime favourite will be back in stores this week starting with Iceland from August 20.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The makers say they will be “healthier and tastier than ever” and the new recipe will see lower saturated fats and calories.
Two new flavours will also be available - Original Tangy Tomato and Chilli Cheese, both cost £3 for a pack of eight.
Nutritionist, Dr Sarah Schenker said: “Turkey Twizzlers have listened to the public and completely transformed themselves into a much-improved product.
"They now have a nutritional profile they can be confident in. High in good quality protein and lower in fat, saturates, salt and sugar. You can create a balanced meal by teaming them with plenty of veg such as a corn on the cob and broccoli.”
Bernard Matthews took to social media recently to tease fans of the product's return and the account was soon trending.
One user said: "Omg I have literally waited years and I can't cope if this is what I think it is,” tweeted one.
Another posted: "If Turkey Twizzlers are coming back then I am clearing out my entire seven drawer freestanding freezer right now and will be filling every single draw [sic] with them.”
Others wrote: “Turkey twizzlers coming back to defeat jamie oliver needs to be a movie, please make this a movie.”


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Coventry City exit leaves Dexter hungrier than ever

Dexter Walters says his time at Coventry City helped him develop as a player , mentally and physically .
And he believes that rejoining Tamworth , working alongside Andrew Danylyszyn and Gary Smith , can help him achieve his ambition to get a second chance in the professional game at some stage .
Walters , 21 , is back at The Lamb having been released by the Sky Blues earlier this summer .
Coventry had previously snapped the winger up from Tamworth in August 2018 .
“ I ’ m really happy to be back , ” said Walters .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ when Tamworth declared their interest .
“ After speaking to Andrew ( Danylyszyn ) , it just seemed like the right move and the right platform for me at this stage of my career .
“ The management team are great and I think they will give me the opportunity to learn something new every day .
“ That ’ s the type of people I want to be around .
They have real passion and it shows , it rubs off on the players .
“ You can see how confident the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to how the managers believe in them – those man-to-man management skills are top notch.
” Walters insists he has no regrets about leaving the Lamb two years ago for Coventry .
And he says the experience has made him even hungrier to kick on .
“ Coventry was 100 per cent a great experience , ” he said .
“ I certainly don ’ t have anything negative to say about them . ''
“ At the end of the day , when I joined them it was an opportunity I couldn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve gained a lot of things from them – it has been a learning curve .
“ The most important thing I learnt from them was the mental side of the game .
“ When things are not going your way you can sulk about it or dwell on it .
“ But I have learnt you have to decide what you are going to do to make it go your way .
“ At the end of the day , that ’ s what you have got to ask yourself .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ work even harder , you will not progress . ''
“ Coventry really helped me with that focus on the mental side of it .
“ On the football side , I learnt a lot too in terms of movement – when to come in off the line , spacial awareness and having more of an end product .
“ It was a shame things didn ’ t work out but sometimes it ’ s just not your time at the moment .
“ There ’ s a different move you might have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But I ’ ve had a taste of what it ’ s like and I now have the hunger to get back up there or even higher in my career at some point .
“ For me , being at Tamworth can help with that – the management are brilliant in terms of helping your development .
“ Hopefully I can now deliver for the club on the pitch and it will be great to show fans how much I ’ ve developed during my time away .
”

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Dexter Walters says his time at Coventry City helped him develop as a player, mentally and physically.
And he believes that rejoining Tamworth, working alongside Andrew Danylyszyn and Gary Smith, can help him achieve his ambition to get a second chance in the professional game at some stage.
Walters, 21, is back at The Lamb having been released by the Sky Blues earlier this summer.
(Image: Paul Barber)
Coventry had previously snapped the winger up from Tamworth in August 2018.
“I’m really happy to be back,” said Walters. “It was a no-brainer for me when Tamworth declared their interest.
“After speaking to Andrew (Danylyszyn), it just seemed like the right move and the right platform for me at this stage of my career.
“The management team are great and I think they will give me the opportunity to learn something new every day.
“That’s the type of people I want to be around. They have real passion and it shows, it rubs off on the players.
“You can see how confident the players are and that’s due to how the managers believe in them – those man-to-man management skills are top notch.”
Walters insists he has no regrets about leaving the Lamb two years ago for Coventry.
And he says the experience has made him even hungrier to kick on.
“Coventry was 100 per cent a great experience,” he said.
“I certainly don’t have anything negative to say about them."
“At the end of the day, when I joined them it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.
“I’ve gained a lot of things from them – it has been a learning curve.
“The most important thing I learnt from them was the mental side of the game.
“When things are not going your way you can sulk about it or dwell on it.
“But I have learnt you have to decide what you are going to do to make it go your way.
“At the end of the day, that’s what you have got to ask yourself.
“If you are not willing to work even harder, you will not progress."
“Coventry really helped me with that focus on the mental side of it.
“On the football side, I learnt a lot too in terms of movement – when to come in off the line, spacial awareness and having more of an end product.
“It was a shame things didn’t work out but sometimes it’s just not your time at the moment.
“There’s a different move you might have to take along your journey.
“But I’ve had a taste of what it’s like and I now have the hunger to get back up there or even higher in my career at some point.
“For me, being at Tamworth can help with that – the management are brilliant in terms of helping your development.
“Hopefully I can now deliver for the club on the pitch and it will be great to show fans how much I’ve developed during my time away.”


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Commons responds to Edouard to Aston Villa transfer 'theory'

Celtic hero Kris Commons has blasted the 'theory ' that Aston Villa target Odsonne Edouard will make a big-money transfer this summer .
Villa reportedly have the French striker in their sights as the club go about adding fresh firepower to Dean Smith 's squad .
Edouard scored 28 goals in all competitions last term as Celtic made it nine titles in a row and already has a hat-trick to his name in the new season .
It was claimed the 22-year-old would be on his way out if Neil Lennon 's side fail to reach the Champions League group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Albian Ajeti from West Ham United added fuel to the fire .
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Google Play Store and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mail : `` One theory which I 've heard doing the rounds in recent days has been that Odsonne Edouard 's future will hinge on Celtic 's progress in Europe this season and what happens over these next few weeks .
`` The suggestion seems to be that a failure to reach the group stage of the Champions League would inevitably hasten his departure prior to the transfer window closing in October .
`` I totally disagree with that .
For me , there 's absolutely no chance that Celtic will even contemplate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ juncture .
That ship has sailed .
`` The season is already under way .
If they were of a mind to cash-in on Edouard , they 'd have done it six weeks ago to give themselves time to find a suitable replacement .
`` The signing of Albian Ajeti changes nothing in that respect .
Despite the £5m fee , there 's no way he 's been bought as a direct replacement for Edouard .
`` You do n't replace one of the best young strikers in Europe with a boy who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last season . ''
Edouard is thought to be valued at around £40m by Celtic having netted 63 goals in 128 matches in all competitions since arriving from PSG two years ago and is also being linked with the likes of Leeds United and Everton .
Villa head coach Smith and new sporting director Johan Lange have been given extra funds by owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens to strengthen the squad .
Commons added : `` As for Edouard , he 's still got one more year left in the tank at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they let him go at this stage of proceedings .
`` Listen , I understand that money talks .
But Peter Lawwell is a smart man .
He 'll know that selling Edouard now would be playing with fire .
`` If the club sold their star player and then failed to secure ten in a row this season , Lawwell wo n't need anyone to tell him that the fans would hound him out of the club .
`` What will help Celtic 's cause is that I genuinely do n't see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seems a really level-headed boy and I do n't see a repeat of what happened with Dembele a couple of years ago .
`` There was a lot of politics involved in that .
Dembele eventually demanded to leave after what he felt were broken promises from Rodgers .
`` I do n't see that happening with Edouard .
To be honest , it 's actually in his best interests to stick around for at least one more season . ''

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Celtic hero Kris Commons has blasted the 'theory' that Aston Villa target Odsonne Edouard will make a big-money transfer this summer.
Villa reportedly have the French striker in their sights as the club go about adding fresh firepower to Dean Smith's squad.
Edouard scored 28 goals in all competitions last term as Celtic made it nine titles in a row and already has a hat-trick to his name in the new season.
It was claimed the 22-year-old would be on his way out if Neil Lennon's side fail to reach the Champions League group stage - and the arrival of forward Albian Ajeti from West Ham United added fuel to the fire.
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
But Commons told the Daily Mail: "One theory which I've heard doing the rounds in recent days has been that Odsonne Edouard's future will hinge on Celtic's progress in Europe this season and what happens over these next few weeks.
"The suggestion seems to be that a failure to reach the group stage of the Champions League would inevitably hasten his departure prior to the transfer window closing in October.
"I totally disagree with that. For me, there's absolutely no chance that Celtic will even contemplate selling their star striker at this late juncture. That ship has sailed.
"The season is already under way. If they were of a mind to cash-in on Edouard, they'd have done it six weeks ago to give themselves time to find a suitable replacement.
"The signing of Albian Ajeti changes nothing in that respect. Despite the £5m fee, there's no way he's been bought as a direct replacement for Edouard.
"You don't replace one of the best young strikers in Europe with a boy who was warming the bench for West Ham last season."
Edouard is thought to be valued at around £40m by Celtic having netted 63 goals in 128 matches in all competitions since arriving from PSG two years ago and is also being linked with the likes of Leeds United and Everton.
Villa head coach Smith and new sporting director Johan Lange have been given extra funds by owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens to strengthen the squad.
Commons added: "As for Edouard, he's still got one more year left in the tank at Celtic. I would be astonished if they let him go at this stage of proceedings.
"Listen, I understand that money talks. But Peter Lawwell is a smart man. He'll know that selling Edouard now would be playing with fire.
"If the club sold their star player and then failed to secure ten in a row this season, Lawwell won't need anyone to tell him that the fans would hound him out of the club.
"What will help Celtic's cause is that I genuinely don't see Edouard agitating for a move. He seems a really level-headed boy and I don't see a repeat of what happened with Dembele a couple of years ago.
"There was a lot of politics involved in that. Dembele eventually demanded to leave after what he felt were broken promises from Rodgers.
"I don't see that happening with Edouard. To be honest, it's actually in his best interests to stick around for at least one more season."


birminghammail--2020-08-17--Kate Garraway misses G.M.B amid concerns about Derek Draper's condition

The popular host usually presents the programme with either Adil Ray or Ben Shephard , as Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid are taking a summer break .
However this morning 's show saw Charlotte Hawkins join Adil Ray meaning viewers did not hear the host 's normal update on the condition of her husband Derek Draper who is battling coronavirus .
He has been in intensive care and in a medically-induced coma .
Derek is now in a barely-conscious state and Kate has previously revealed his recovery was slower than she hoped .
Kate had previously asked medics about donating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they were `` months away '' from being able to `` clean blood '' .
She said today : `` The blood plasma treatment is too late to help Derek but the idea that we can spread things that are working on this show is wonderful .
`` For me doing positive at that point and now is wonderful and something we can all do , those of us who have had the virus , to feel like we 're helping .
`` I am seeing Derek today and I will tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I got a little ticking off from the team who have been helping him , because I have n't given them a mention .
`` So good morning to you , thank you for everything you 're doing and good morning to Derek as well .
`` We do n't know how much he can see or hear but we know the programme is on . ''
After seeing her husband a fortnight ago , Kate then told viewers : `` It was quite a tough visit yesterday , he has had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's frustrating . ''
Her husband 's recovery is slow as the virus has `` attacked everything '' , leaving him with clots in his lungs and holes in his heart .
The deadly virus has also made him diabetic with doctors warning Kate that Derek 's body may never recover from the damage .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Verity Sulway, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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Presenter Kate Garraway skipped her normal Monday presenting slot on Good Morning Britain today.
The popular host usually presents the programme with either Adil Ray or Ben Shephard, as Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid are taking a summer break.
However this morning's show saw Charlotte Hawkins join Adil Ray meaning viewers did not hear the host's normal update on the condition of her husband Derek Draper who is battling coronavirus.
He has been in intensive care and in a medically-induced coma.
Derek is now in a barely-conscious state and Kate has previously revealed his recovery was slower than she hoped.
Kate had previously asked medics about donating her blood in Aptil but health professionals said they were "months away" from being able to "clean blood".
She said today: "The blood plasma treatment is too late to help Derek but the idea that we can spread things that are working on this show is wonderful.
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"For me doing positive at that point and now is wonderful and something we can all do, those of us who have had the virus, to feel like we're helping.
"I am seeing Derek today and I will tell him about it but actually I know, I got a little ticking off from the team who have been helping him, because I haven't given them a mention.
"So good morning to you, thank you for everything you're doing and good morning to Derek as well.
"We don't know how much he can see or hear but we know the programme is on."
After seeing her husband a fortnight ago, Kate then told viewers: "It was quite a tough visit yesterday, he has had a tough couple of weeks, and it's frustrating."
Her husband's recovery is slow as the virus has "attacked everything", leaving him with clots in his lungs and holes in his heart.
The deadly virus has also made him diabetic with doctors warning Kate that Derek's body may never recover from the damage.