birminghammail--2020-07-01--Number of positive coronavirus cases on the rise in Birmingham and Black Country

The number of positive coronavirus cases in Birmingham and the Black Country is finally starting to emerge .
New data published today by Public Health England shows for the first time how many people have tested positive in hospital , at drive-in centres , mobile swabbing units and via postal tests .
Not surprisingly it shows a big jump in known cases .
We can now reveal for the first time that around 110 people tested positive in Birmingham in a single week ( up to June 21 ) at all testing locations .
We previously only knew how many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were critical key workers , which was around 21 that same week .
The rate of infection is nothing close to the levels being experienced in Leicester , which is now facing an extra fortnight in lockdown as a result of outbreaks .
But it serves as a timely warning that the virus is still actively circulating and the pandemic is still upon us - with outbreaks likely to rise as lockdown eases .
Across the Black Country , around 75 people tested positive in the week to June 21 .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases .
Frustratingly , however , those figures are already ten days out of date .
Today we spoke to public health officials in the region who have been lobbying to see live data from all testing sources to support their local efforts to contain any spikes in infection .
They confirmed they are now seeing updated information but , in a twist that is hard to fathom , they are not allowed to share it with residents and communities .
The new data they are getting is marked `` official-sensitive '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sign data sharing agreements to get it in the first place , meaning they are prohibited from sharing it .
They also warned the data they got was still lacking in occupation and postcode information - vital bits of the puzzle that can help them spot trends or outbreaks quickly .
Birmingham 's director of public health Dr Justin Varney tweeted confirmation that he was now receiving more data but could not share it .
Dr Lisa McNally , his counterpart in Sandwell , said the data available has improved `` significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to see occupation and place of work included .
Now that most workplaces are open they will inevitably be the source of a proportion of outbreaks but we wo n't spot them early if all we get is a list of home postcodes . ''
She and her public health team are currently working on the biggest local outbreak we know about so far , involving Tulip food factory in Tipton , where 30 of the staff have so far tested positive for the virus .
The tests row comes as local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ management plans ’ to government , after being requested to do so by ministers .
Andy Street , the Mayor of the West Midlands , said he had been pressing for timely data to be shared and published : “ Local public health leads need all data available to them in order to make informed decisions about their local authority areas and any response to a potential outbreak .
`` At the moment , the Pillar 2 data being received has a lag , and I have urged both PHE and the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Byrne ( Birmingham Hodge Hill ) said the way test and trace operations had been dealt with was a shocking state of affairs , especially as it was our key insurance policy as we ease lockdown measures .
Coronavirus latest updates - how to get our free newsletter in your inbox There 's no doubt that Covid-19 has had a huge impact on all our lives .
Birmingham has seen thousands of deaths as a result of coronavirus and one hospital trust in the city has recorded higher deaths than anywhere else in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , it can be hard to know where to turn for the latest news and information .
Well , now you can get it all in one place with our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article , which looks like this : It 's a free and easy way to follow up-to-date developments on the lockdown restrictions , Government guidelines , shop and restaurant reopenings , track and trace initiatives , development of a vaccine and official details of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can check through all the day 's headlines in one place every day .
You can also follow the latest updates on Facebook in our Birmingham - Coronavirus Updates group , where you can discuss what 's going on and share other news you 've found .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store A failure to share accurate testing data meant misinformation could run riot at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` In some of our communities in particular the fear levels are very high , to the point they are not visiting GPs or hospitals and are suffering in the dark .
This data would help clarify the situation . ''
What is Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 and why is it important ?
Testing is divided into two groups - called pillar 1 and pillar 2 .
Pillar 1 is testing carried out for those with `` a medical need '' and critical key workers , usually done in hospitals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local authority partners .
This is the information the Government has freely shared daily .
Pillar 2 is testing carried out by commercial partners and is done in other settings including drive through centres , postal tests and mobile testing , and now accounts for the majority of tests .
The Government publish national data every day showing the number of positive cases in the country but this is not broken down into local authority areas .
It publishes Pillar 1 data by local authority - but not Pillar 2 data .
Today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , showing both Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 , was published for each local authority but was expressed as a 'rate ' - the number of cases per 100,000 of the population - and was a weekly rate for the week ending June 21 .
It will be a useful comparitive marker to monitor whether infections are increasing or slowing .
BirminghamLive 's data experts used the information provided to work out how many people were affected .
When quizzed about the issue yesterday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the delay in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a need to ensure its accuracy , which takes time : `` There is a long standing issue on the issue of de-confliction , and of understanding and making sure we get those data right . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Claire Miller, Jane Haynes)

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The number of positive coronavirus cases in Birmingham and the Black Country is finally starting to emerge.
New data published today by Public Health England shows for the first time how many people have tested positive in hospital, at drive-in centres, mobile swabbing units and via postal tests.
Not surprisingly it shows a big jump in known cases.
We can now reveal for the first time that around 110 people tested positive in Birmingham in a single week (up to June 21) at all testing locations.
We previously only knew how many had tested positive in hospitals or because they were critical key workers, which was around 21 that same week.
The rate of infection is nothing close to the levels being experienced in Leicester, which is now facing an extra fortnight in lockdown as a result of outbreaks.
But it serves as a timely warning that the virus is still actively circulating and the pandemic is still upon us - with outbreaks likely to rise as lockdown eases.
Across the Black Country, around 75 people tested positive in the week to June 21. We had only previously known about around 23 cases.
Frustratingly, however, those figures are already ten days out of date.
Today we spoke to public health officials in the region who have been lobbying to see live data from all testing sources to support their local efforts to contain any spikes in infection.
(Image: Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
They confirmed they are now seeing updated information but, in a twist that is hard to fathom, they are not allowed to share it with residents and communities.
The new data they are getting is marked "official-sensitive" and local officials have told us they have to sign data sharing agreements to get it in the first place, meaning they are prohibited from sharing it.
They also warned the data they got was still lacking in occupation and postcode information - vital bits of the puzzle that can help them spot trends or outbreaks quickly.
Birmingham's director of public health Dr Justin Varney tweeted confirmation that he was now receiving more data but could not share it.
Dr Lisa McNally, his counterpart in Sandwell, said the data available has improved "significantly" but added: "We urgently need to see occupation and place of work included. Now that most workplaces are open they will inevitably be the source of a proportion of outbreaks but we won't spot them early if all we get is a list of home postcodes."
She and her public health team are currently working on the biggest local outbreak we know about so far, involving Tulip food factory in Tipton, where 30 of the staff have so far tested positive for the virus.
The tests row comes as local authorities last night submitted their ‘outbreak management plans’ to government, after being requested to do so by ministers.
Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, said he had been pressing for timely data to be shared and published: “Local public health leads need all data available to them in order to make informed decisions about their local authority areas and any response to a potential outbreak.
"At the moment, the Pillar 2 data being received has a lag, and I have urged both PHE and the Government to address this.”
City MP Liam Byrne (Birmingham Hodge Hill) said the way test and trace operations had been dealt with was a shocking state of affairs, especially as it was our key insurance policy as we ease lockdown measures.
A failure to share accurate testing data meant misinformation could run riot at a highly sensitive time, he added.
"In some of our communities in particular the fear levels are very high, to the point they are not visiting GPs or hospitals and are suffering in the dark. This data would help clarify the situation."
What is Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 and why is it important?
Testing is divided into two groups - called pillar 1 and pillar 2.
Pillar 1 is testing carried out for those with "a medical need" and critical key workers, usually done in hospitals, with information collected by hospital trusts and local authority partners. This is the information the Government has freely shared daily.
Pillar 2 is testing carried out by commercial partners and is done in other settings including drive through centres, postal tests and mobile testing, and now accounts for the majority of tests.
The Government publish national data every day showing the number of positive cases in the country but this is not broken down into local authority areas.
It publishes Pillar 1 data by local authority - but not Pillar 2 data.
Today for the first time a joint figure, showing both Pillar 1 and Pillar 2, was published for each local authority but was expressed as a 'rate' - the number of cases per 100,000 of the population - and was a weekly rate for the week ending June 21.
It will be a useful comparitive marker to monitor whether infections are increasing or slowing.
BirminghamLive's data experts used the information provided to work out how many people were affected.
When quizzed about the issue yesterday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the delay in sharing data from Pillar 2 was because of a need to ensure its accuracy, which takes time: "There is a long standing issue on the issue of de-confliction, and of understanding and making sure we get those data right."


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Klopp confirms Liverpool injury blow ahead of Aston Villa clash

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed Joel Matip 's injury ahead of fixtures against Manchester City and Aston Villa .
Villa travel to Anfield on Sunday desperate to pull off an upset after the Reds face Manchester City on Thursday .
Dean Smith 's side are winless in their last eight Premier League matches and remain rooted in the relegation zone after Saturday 's 1-0 defeat at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers .
Liverpool 's first title in 30 years was confirmed after Pep Guardiola 's City dropped points against Chelsea last week .
Matip picked up a foot injury in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on June 21 and having missed the 4-0 win against Crystal Palace , said he expects to be sidelined for their seven remaining matches this term .
He told the club ’ s official website : `` This season I will be not back on the pitch but for next season , I hope I ’ m going to be quite early a direct help for the team . ''
Matip has managed only 13 appearances across an injury-hit campaign but remains Liverpool 's first-choice partner for Virgil van Dijk in the middle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his pre-match press conference he has no new injury concerns while confirming Matip 's situation .
He told the Liverpool Echo : `` Not yet .
Nothing .
The one with Joel [ Matip ] you know .
That 's not nice .
`` But that is all for the moment . ''

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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed Joel Matip's injury ahead of fixtures against Manchester City and Aston Villa.
Villa travel to Anfield on Sunday desperate to pull off an upset after the Reds face Manchester City on Thursday.
Dean Smith's side are winless in their last eight Premier League matches and remain rooted in the relegation zone after Saturday's 1-0 defeat at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Liverpool's first title in 30 years was confirmed after Pep Guardiola's City dropped points against Chelsea last week.
Matip picked up a foot injury in the Liverpool's goalless draw against Everton on June 21 and having missed the 4-0 win against Crystal Palace, said he expects to be sidelined for their seven remaining matches this term.
He told the club’s official website: "This season I will be not back on the pitch but for next season, I hope I’m going to be quite early a direct help for the team."
Matip has managed only 13 appearances across an injury-hit campaign but remains Liverpool's first-choice partner for Virgil van Dijk in the middle of defence when fit.
Klopp said in his pre-match press conference he has no new injury concerns while confirming Matip's situation.
He told the Liverpool Echo: "Not yet. Nothing. The one with Joel [Matip] you know. That's not nice.
"But that is all for the moment."


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Slaven Bilic makes five changes as West Brom tackle Sheff Wed

Slaven Bilic indicated that he ’ d make changes to his West Brom team at Sheffield Wednesday - and the Albion boss has done exactly that by involving five new faces in his starting XI at Hillsborough .
Dara O ’ Shea , Kyle Bartley , Filip Krovinovic , Charlie Austin and Rekeem Harper all start against the Owls , having not been involved from the off at Brentford on Friday evening .
O ’ Shea and Bartley join Ahmed Hegazi and Kieran Gibbs in the back-line , with Darnell Furlong and , more surprisingly , Semi Ajayi excluded and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jake Livermore , who is understood to be carrying a knock , though he is fit enough to make the match-day squad .
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Google Play Store and App Store Krovinovic joins Harper and Romaine Sawyers in a midfield three , while Austin will be flanked by Matheus Pereira and Grady Diangana .
Kamil Grosicki also makes the bench , having not been involved at all in the first couple of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phillips , Kyle Edwards and Kenneth Zohore are all left out entirely .
Chris Brunt and Conor Townsend are also recalled to the 20 , joining the likes of Callum Robinson and Hal Robson-Kanu on the bench .
For the hosts , they make two changes - Kieran Lee and Julian Borner drop out of the starting XI - the latter entirely , after picking up an injury - while there are starts for Adam Reach and Moses Odubajo .

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Slaven Bilic indicated that he’d make changes to his West Brom team at Sheffield Wednesday - and the Albion boss has done exactly that by involving five new faces in his starting XI at Hillsborough.
Dara O’Shea, Kyle Bartley, Filip Krovinovic, Charlie Austin and Rekeem Harper all start against the Owls, having not been involved from the off at Brentford on Friday evening.
O’Shea and Bartley join Ahmed Hegazi and Kieran Gibbs in the back-line, with Darnell Furlong and, more surprisingly, Semi Ajayi excluded and benched.
Further afield, Harper replaces Jake Livermore, who is understood to be carrying a knock, though he is fit enough to make the match-day squad.
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 .
Krovinovic joins Harper and Romaine Sawyers in a midfield three, while Austin will be flanked by Matheus Pereira and Grady Diangana.
Kamil Grosicki also makes the bench, having not been involved at all in the first couple of games since the restart, while Matt Phillips, Kyle Edwards and Kenneth Zohore are all left out entirely.
Chris Brunt and Conor Townsend are also recalled to the 20, joining the likes of Callum Robinson and Hal Robson-Kanu on the bench.
For the hosts, they make two changes - Kieran Lee and Julian Borner drop out of the starting XI - the latter entirely, after picking up an injury - while there are starts for Adam Reach and Moses Odubajo.
Sheffield Wednesday
Wildsmith; Palmer, Rhodes, Harris, Bannan, Reach, Odubajo, Wickham, Iorfa, Murphy, Luongo
Subs : Dawson, Lee, Pelupessy, Hunt, Nuhiu, Shaw, Da Cruz, Brennan, Hughes
Albion
Johnstone; O’Shea, Bartley, Hegazi, Gibbs; Sawyers, Krovinovic, Harper, Pereira, Diangana; Austin
Subs : Bond, Furlong, Ajayi, Livermore, Brunt, Robinson, Grosicki, Robson-Kanu, Townsend


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Drug dealer ordered to pay back almost £75k or face more jail time

A Wolverhampton drug dealer - who said he was a 'care assistant ' - has been ordered to pay back almost £75,000 of ill-gotten gains or face spending more time behind bars .
Cops exposed Daniel Anderson ’ s class A drugs empire after finding wads of cash and cocaine stashed across a property he was staying at in Langdale Drive , Bilston , last June .
Police raided the home and discovered a secret compartment under the stairs , where blocks of cocaine were stored and a number of suspected 'drugs phones ’ were found in a drawer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ name Bones - was jailed for six years for possession with intent to supply .
But officers have set about recovering cash or assets from his activities under the Proceeds of Crime Act ( POCA ) .
Evidence presented at a confiscation order hearing at Wolverhampton Crown Court showed Anderson pocketed almost £130,000 from his criminal lifestyle , of which £73,500 can be promptly retrieved .
The 36-year-old was ordered to pay off the available amount within three months or he will be forced to face an extra nine months behind bars .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the money .
Inspector Stephanie Furber , from Wolverhampton Police , said : `` We acted on intelligence and rumbled his Class A business .
`` Even though he was jailed we were determined he should not benefit from his ill-gotten gains in future and successfully brought this confiscation case under POCA . ''
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner , David Jamieson added : `` The Proceeds of Crime Act ensures that the money the police seize from criminals is put to good use keeping our communities safer .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year we ’ ve allocated £160,000 to expand the work of the financial investigators who are helping us take more money from criminals to put to good use .
`` Money seized by the new team is being put directly into helping those with substance misuse problems .
The people who have been exploited and harmed by the criminals whose cash we have taken .
`` My Community Initiatives Fund is proving a vital tool in ensuring that are helping people as we battle coronavirus .
`` From the volunteers helping those overcome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helping the elderly and homeless who may need extra support as the lockdown is lifted . ''

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A Wolverhampton drug dealer - who said he was a 'care assistant' - has been ordered to pay back almost £75,000 of ill-gotten gains or face spending more time behind bars.
Cops exposed Daniel Anderson’s class A drugs empire after finding wads of cash and cocaine stashed across a property he was staying at in Langdale Drive, Bilston, last June.
Police raided the home and discovered a secret compartment under the stairs, where blocks of cocaine were stored and a number of suspected 'drugs phones’ were found in a drawer.
The dealer - who uses the street name Bones - was jailed for six years for possession with intent to supply. But officers have set about recovering cash or assets from his activities under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).
Evidence presented at a confiscation order hearing at Wolverhampton Crown Court showed Anderson pocketed almost £130,000 from his criminal lifestyle, of which £73,500 can be promptly retrieved.
The 36-year-old was ordered to pay off the available amount within three months or he will be forced to face an extra nine months behind bars. He remains in debt for the remainder of the money.
(Image: WMP)
Inspector Stephanie Furber, from Wolverhampton Police, said: "We acted on intelligence and rumbled his Class A business.
"Even though he was jailed we were determined he should not benefit from his ill-gotten gains in future and successfully brought this confiscation case under POCA."
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, David Jamieson added: "The Proceeds of Crime Act ensures that the money the police seize from criminals is put to good use keeping our communities safer.
"I’m pleased that in the past year we’ve allocated £160,000 to expand the work of the financial investigators who are helping us take more money from criminals to put to good use.
(Image: WMP)
"Money seized by the new team is being put directly into helping those with substance misuse problems. The people who have been exploited and harmed by the criminals whose cash we have taken.
"My Community Initiatives Fund is proving a vital tool in ensuring that are helping people as we battle coronavirus.
"From the volunteers helping those overcome the social impacts of isolation and those helping the elderly and homeless who may need extra support as the lockdown is lifted."


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Update on city school after pupil tests positive for coronavirus

Health bosses have issued an update as a city school took the 'difficult decision ' to shut after a pupil was diagnosed with coronavirus .
Paganel Primary School , in Selly Oak , closed suddenly on Tuesday , June 30 after the Year One student was confirmed as having the virus .
A staff member was also awaiting test results amid suspicions they too were infected .
The school today broke its silence , confirming a single case of coronavirus had been reported in a 'bubble ' .
Public Health England has advised the school to carry out a deep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used by the group .
Angela Cartwright , Consultant in Communicable Disease Control with PHE Midlands , said : `` We are working closely with the school , local authority and local NHS to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .
`` The school has been advised to continue to follow national guidance and ensure that anyone with symptoms self-isolates for seven days , and their household members isolate for 14 days .
`` Staff and children in the same teaching bubble of a confirmed case must also self-isolate for 14 days , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avoid unknowingly spreading the virus .
`` Testing is being discussed and if anyone who has a test has positive results , they are to inform the school , which will then notify the public health professionals .
`` PHE has advised the school to organise a deep clean of the rooms and communal areas used by this group .
The school closed on June 30 , and the exact date for reopening will be confirmed , subject to further testing and results .
`` It is important to remember that one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from spreading is frequent and thorough hand washing .
Good hygiene practices such as catching coughs and sneezes in disposable tissues , should be encouraged , as should cleaning frequently touched services regularly and minimising contact with other people as far as possible .
`` If anyone does develop symptoms , which include a new continuous cough , high temperature , or loss or change to their sense of taste or smell , they should self-isolate straight away and organise a test . ''
It is believed the child suffered symptoms of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two-week isolation period until the reopening date for their year group .
The school said it only had confirmation of the positive result on Monday , June 29 , after which staff were informed .
It is thought Year 1 parents were informed of the positive test , while other year groups were only told of the suspected case .
The school said it was working alongside Birmingham City Council and Public Health England , which were issuing the school with advice .
A statement from the school read : `` Following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 in a bubble at Paganel Primary School in Birmingham and a suspected case in a staff member , the headteacher and board of governors have taken the difficult decision to close the school on a temporary basis as a precautionary measure .
“ PHE was contacted by the school leadership yesterday morning and will be working with Birmingham City Council in providing advice and support to the school on the management of the incident .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Paxton, Stephanie Balloo)

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Health bosses have issued an update as a city school took the 'difficult decision' to shut after a pupil was diagnosed with coronavirus.
Paganel Primary School, in Selly Oak, closed suddenly on Tuesday, June 30 after the Year One student was confirmed as having the virus.
A staff member was also awaiting test results amid suspicions they too were infected.
The school today broke its silence, confirming a single case of coronavirus had been reported in a 'bubble'.
Public Health England has advised the school to carry out a deep clean of the rooms and communal areas used by the group.
Angela Cartwright, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control with PHE Midlands, said: "We are working closely with the school, local authority and local NHS to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
"The school has been advised to continue to follow national guidance and ensure that anyone with symptoms self-isolates for seven days, and their household members isolate for 14 days.
"Staff and children in the same teaching bubble of a confirmed case must also self-isolate for 14 days, even if they have no symptoms, to avoid unknowingly spreading the virus.
"Testing is being discussed and if anyone who has a test has positive results, they are to inform the school, which will then notify the public health professionals.
"PHE has advised the school to organise a deep clean of the rooms and communal areas used by this group. The school closed on June 30, and the exact date for reopening will be confirmed, subject to further testing and results.
"It is important to remember that one of the most effective ways of preventing Covid-19 from spreading is frequent and thorough hand washing. Good hygiene practices such as catching coughs and sneezes in disposable tissues, should be encouraged, as should cleaning frequently touched services regularly and minimising contact with other people as far as possible.
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"If anyone does develop symptoms, which include a new continuous cough, high temperature, or loss or change to their sense of taste or smell, they should self-isolate straight away and organise a test."
It is believed the child suffered symptoms of the virus from last Thursday - marking a two-week isolation period until the reopening date for their year group.
The school said it only had confirmation of the positive result on Monday, June 29, after which staff were informed.
It is thought Year 1 parents were informed of the positive test, while other year groups were only told of the suspected case.
The school said it was working alongside Birmingham City Council and Public Health England, which were issuing the school with advice.
A statement from the school read: "Following the confirmation on Monday of a single case of COVID-19 in a bubble at Paganel Primary School in Birmingham and a suspected case in a staff member, the headteacher and board of governors have taken the difficult decision to close the school on a temporary basis as a precautionary measure.
“PHE was contacted by the school leadership yesterday morning and will be working with Birmingham City Council in providing advice and support to the school on the management of the incident.”


birminghammail--2020-07-01--West Brom transfer fails as Everton Soares ditches Baggies bid - report

There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the West Bromwich Albion news with our @ @ @ @ @ into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Albion news @ @ @ @ @ opinion .
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West Bromwich Albion have been met with a transfer setback.
According to a report from Area Napoli, West Brom were one of a number of clubs eyeballing a potential deal for Gremio talent Everton Soares.
Soares, fancied by Newcastle United, Everton, Napoli and Bayer Leverkusen as a signing, was of interest to Albion.
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 .
As with most deals considered by the Baggies, any deal would hinge on Slaven Bilic's current promotion campaign, however the club were reportedly happy to put a tentative 25 million euro bid on the table pending promotion.
However, the player's own goals needed to be considered - and according to the report by Area Napoli, Soares didn't seem too keen on a Hawthorns move despite the interested and reported bid.
While the player was open to a move to England, he was not willing to make the switch to the Albion, preferring a 'higher calibre' team.
Everton, who has spent the entirety of his senior career at Gremio, has enjoyed a marquee return in the Brazilian Serie A, scoring 11 goals in twenty-three starts.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Teen charged after viral video of city centre attack

A man has been charged after video of an attack in a busy city centre street was widely shared .
Ayham Yafai , of no fixed address , is accused of assault following an incident in Corporation Street in Birmingham city centre on Sunday ( June 28 ) .
The 19-year-old is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court on Thursday , July 2 .
It comes after West Midlands Police released footage of the attack - which took place around 6pm .
They have identified other alleged suspects who police are actively trying to arrest .
Officers thanked members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they revealed the charge .
A new statement from West Midlands Police read : `` # CHARGED| We ’ ve charged a man who was allegedly involved in an assault on Corporation Street in # Birmingham city centre at around 6pm on Sunday 28 June , which we asked you to help us with after releasing footage .
`` Thank you so much for your help .
`` Ayham Yafai , aged 19 of no fixed address , has been charged with assault and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court tomorrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have also identified other alleged suspects who may have been involved in this attack and are actively trying to arrest them . ''

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A man has been charged after video of an attack in a busy city centre street was widely shared.
Ayham Yafai, of no fixed address, is accused of assault following an incident in Corporation Street in Birmingham city centre on Sunday (June 28).
The 19-year-old is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court on Thursday, July 2.
It comes after West Midlands Police released footage of the attack - which took place around 6pm.
They have identified other alleged suspects who police are actively trying to arrest.
Officers thanked members of the public for their help as they revealed the charge.
A new statement from West Midlands Police read: "#CHARGED| We’ve charged a man who was allegedly involved in an assault on Corporation Street in #Birmingham city centre at around 6pm on Sunday 28 June, which we asked you to help us with after releasing footage.
"Thank you so much for your help.
"Ayham Yafai, aged 19 of no fixed address, has been charged with assault and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court tomorrow (2 July).
"We have also identified other alleged suspects who may have been involved in this attack and are actively trying to arrest them."


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Wolves learn new update on Milot Rashica ahead of transfer window

Three more clubs have entered the running to sign Milot Rashica from Werder Bremen , according to reports .
The Kosovo international , who has a £33million release clause written into his contract , has been linked with a move to the Premier League and Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly keen .
Liverpool , Aston Villa , Brighton and Hove Albion and West Ham United were also credited with an interest ahead of the summer transfer window .
Rashica has made a vital contribution to Werder 's survival bid with eight goals and six assists in 28 league appearances but he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the coming weeks .
Prior to Saturday 's clash against Cologne which Werder won 6-1 to go into the relegation play-off , sporting director Frank Baumann told Weser Kurier : “ He is very interested in saying goodbye here and the Werder fans have positive memories of him .
Milot has aroused the interest of other clubs through his performances , which he has shown for a long time .
“ Basically , it is absolutely okay that he also wants to take the next step at some point .
If a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to sit down and find a solution.
” According to German media outlet DeichStube , RB Leipzig and Hertha Berlin want to keep Rashica in the Bundesliga while AC Milan are also an option for the 24-year-old .
The same report claim Rashica 's release clause will drop to just 15million euros ( £13.5m ) if Werder are relegated .

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Three more clubs have entered the running to sign Milot Rashica from Werder Bremen, according to reports.
The Kosovo international, who has a £33million release clause written into his contract, has been linked with a move to the Premier League and Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly keen.
Liverpool, Aston Villa, Brighton and Hove Albion and West Ham United were also credited with an interest ahead of the summer transfer window.
Rashica has made a vital contribution to Werder's survival bid with eight goals and six assists in 28 league appearances but he is now all but certain to leave in the coming weeks.
Prior to Saturday's clash against Cologne which Werder won 6-1 to go into the relegation play-off, sporting director Frank Baumann told Weser Kurier: “He is very interested in saying goodbye here and the Werder fans have positive memories of him. Milot has aroused the interest of other clubs through his performances, which he has shown for a long time.
“Basically, it is absolutely okay that he also wants to take the next step at some point. If a competitor has a specific interest, we have to sit down and find a solution.”
According to German media outlet DeichStube, RB Leipzig and Hertha Berlin want to keep Rashica in the Bundesliga while AC Milan are also an option for the 24-year-old.
The same report claim Rashica's release clause will drop to just 15million euros (£13.5m) if Werder are relegated.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--These are the pubs opening in Sutton Coldfield this weekend

Pubs and bars in Sutton Coldfield town centre are set to welcome back customers for the first time in more than three months this weekend .
Drinking establishments have been given the go ahead to reopen this Saturday ( July 4 ) – but more than one third of venues are keeping their doors firmly shut – at least for the first Saturday .
Quinto Lounge is avoiding the opening weekend and has instead set an opening date of Wednesday , July 8 .
While the Brewhouse and Kitchen – which was formally The Cup – has said it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time on Friday , July 17 .
Two pubs with beer gardens are set to open their doors – The Station and The Duke Inn .
A spokesperson for The Station in Sutton Coldfield said , “ We are delighted that we will now be able to reopen from 4 July .
Our first priority is the safety of our staff and additional training and safety measures have been put in place .
We are busy getting our bar ready to safely welcome back our customers .
“ Throughout our bar we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cleaning regimes and providing customers with the opportunity to order food and drink via our business app .
“ Single use menus , contactless payments , and hand sanitiser stations compliment the revised layout of our bar .
We are hoping additional space will be made available with the potential pedestrianising of the outside area and we can ’ t wait to welcome back our customers .
“ It will be best to book as we will have reduced capacity and please keep an eye on our Facebook page to check our trading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opening in Sutton are the Slug and Lettuce in the town centre and The Oak in Walmley .
The Duke Inn , with its attractive grassy beer garden , said it will not have bookings but will be ‘ first come first served ’ , with table service indoors .
A post on their Facebook page said : “ We are very pleased to announce we shall be open Saturday , 4 July from 11am .
“ While there are strict guidelines in place we want your local pub to still be an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ please adhere to the guidelines we have put in place .
“ There will be one-way systems around the premises and through both rooms , hand sanitisers at entry and exit points .
“ The tables and benches are set out and are not to be moved and everyone must be seated at a table .
“ We are not operating a booking system it will be on a first come , first served basis and no time limit on visit , unless you can not adhere to the rules then you will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very excited to be back and can ’ t wait to see you all soon.
” While also opening on Saturday will be The Horse and Jockey in Jockey Road , Wetherspoon 's The Bottle of Sack , the Gate Inn and The Townhouse ( previously known as The Royal ) .
When Sutton town centre ’ s third pub with a beer garden – the Brewhouse – opens on July 17 it said it will have ‘ hands-free door opening , hand sanitiser stations , a temperature check facility for team for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ensure employees and guest groups are made to feel as safe and as comfortable as possible.
” It will also have online ordering .
Sutton Coldfield Business Improvement District manager , Mike Bushell said : “ I think it ’ s good to see the town centre ’ s evening economy coming back but it is also important to understand that they have had to work very hard to put in social distancing measures to keep everyone safe .
“ We will welcome people back and hope they will be sensible.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it is currently being refurbished and the same Is happening at Sutton ’ s oldest pub - The Three Tuns , who are avoiding the first weekend rush – but said ‘ we will be open in July ’ at a date to be confirmed .
Also delaying their restart is Simpsons Gin Bar – which will reopen next Thursday ( July 9 ) .
Owner Ann-Marie Simpson said : “ For us safety is paramount .
We want to have the same great boutique atmosphere in Simpsons and we are moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of tables we have and we will have app ordering .
People will need to book on our website .
”

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Pubs and bars in Sutton Coldfield town centre are set to welcome back customers for the first time in more than three months this weekend.
Drinking establishments have been given the go ahead to reopen this Saturday (July 4) – but more than one third of venues are keeping their doors firmly shut – at least for the first Saturday.
Quinto Lounge is avoiding the opening weekend and has instead set an opening date of Wednesday, July 8. While the Brewhouse and Kitchen – which was formally The Cup – has said it is set to open in two weeks’ time on Friday, July 17.
(Image: NickHorner/BirminghamLive)
Two pubs with beer gardens are set to open their doors – The Station and The Duke Inn.
A spokesperson for The Station in Sutton Coldfield said, “We are delighted that we will now be able to reopen from 4 July. Our first priority is the safety of our staff and additional training and safety measures have been put in place. We are busy getting our bar ready to safely welcome back our customers.
“Throughout our bar we are implementing clear social distancing measures, enhanced cleaning regimes and providing customers with the opportunity to order food and drink via our business app.
“Single use menus, contactless payments, and hand sanitiser stations compliment the revised layout of our bar. We are hoping additional space will be made available with the potential pedestrianising of the outside area and we can’t wait to welcome back our customers.
“It will be best to book as we will have reduced capacity and please keep an eye on our Facebook page to check our trading hours.”
(Image: NickHorner/BirminghamLive)
Other Stonegate Pub Company bars opening in Sutton are the Slug and Lettuce in the town centre and The Oak in Walmley.
The Duke Inn, with its attractive grassy beer garden, said it will not have bookings but will be ‘first come first served’, with table service indoors. A post on their Facebook page said: “We are very pleased to announce we shall be open Saturday, 4 July from 11am.
“While there are strict guidelines in place we want your local pub to still be an enjoyable place for you to visit so please adhere to the guidelines we have put in place.
“There will be one-way systems around the premises and through both rooms, hand sanitisers at entry and exit points.
“The tables and benches are set out and are not to be moved and everyone must be seated at a table.
“We are not operating a booking system it will be on a first come, first served basis and no time limit on visit, unless you cannot adhere to the rules then you will be asked to leave
“We are very excited to be back and can’t wait to see you all soon.”
(Image: Nick Horner/BirminghamLive)
While also opening on Saturday will be The Horse and Jockey in Jockey Road, Wetherspoon's The Bottle of Sack, the Gate Inn and The Townhouse (previously known as The Royal).
When Sutton town centre’s third pub with a beer garden – the Brewhouse – opens on July 17 it said it will have ‘hands-free door opening, hand sanitiser stations, a temperature check facility for team for each shift and screens will be introduced to ensure employees and guest groups are made to feel as safe and as comfortable as possible.” It will also have online ordering.
Sutton Coldfield Business Improvement District manager, Mike Bushell said: “I think it’s good to see the town centre’s evening economy coming back but it is also important to understand that they have had to work very hard to put in social distancing measures to keep everyone safe.
“We will welcome people back and hope they will be sensible.”
Molloy’s has delayed its reopening as it is currently being refurbished and the same Is happening at Sutton’s oldest pub - The Three Tuns, who are avoiding the first weekend rush – but said ‘we will be open in July’ at a date to be confirmed.
Also delaying their restart is Simpsons Gin Bar – which will reopen next Thursday (July 9). Owner Ann-Marie Simpson said: “For us safety is paramount . We want to have the same great boutique atmosphere in Simpsons and we are moving back to table service, reducing the number of tables we have and we will have app ordering. People will need to book on our website.”


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Ex-Derby County striker McDonald is new arrival at Lamb

The 24-year-old who has also played for Derby County , Peterborough United and FC Halifax arrives after a stint with Bromsgrove Sporting last season .
Lambs boss Gary Smith revealed the club had tried to sign McDonald last season but the move had fallen through .
But he ’ s delighted to get his man at last .
“ It didn ’ t happen at the time last summer as we had other priorities we had to get across the line first , '' Smith said .
“ Tamworth fans will remember he scored two goals against us for Bromsgrove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and has an eye for goal .
“ He has a good CV as well .
You don ’ t play for the likes of Blues , Derby and Peterborough if you don ’ t have something about you.
” Smith was also delighted to get Aaron Forde back on board for the new campaign .
`` What a player !
When Aaron Forde ’ s head is in the right place and he ’ s focused , he can play at a higher level , '' added Smith .
“ He ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s got great technique on the ball , he ’ s strong and solid and has a never-say-die attitude .
`` He keeps the rest of the lads and the management on their toes !
He has got real passion.
” Meanwhile , Ryan Hamilton has been appointed as the new Tamworth FC Boys ’ and Girls ’ Academy manager .
He takes over from Gordon Maskery , who was boys ’ Academy manager , and Mark Bridgen , who previously held the girls ’ position .
He said : “ I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Academy manager at Tamworth , adding to my role as Tamworth Ladies first-team manager .
“ I ’ ve been made to feel so welcome by the club and when the opportunity arose to become Academy manager I was really pleased .
“ The club ’ s academy has already shown its quality and its success , particularly with the higher age groups , having more than 40 players come through the academy to play for the first team at step two and step three football .
“ That is a phenomenal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a part of .
“ Academy director Mike Fowler has done a fantastic job in ensuring the academy is thriving from under-sevens through to our scholars and on to our senior development team .
“ I intend to help expand , develop and push us forward across both our boys ’ academy and girls ’ academy , helping to develop all players as not just footballers but as people too , helping each person within our academy to reach their potential .
“ We are starting with the expansion of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a senior development team , giving a clearer pathway to senior football .
“ It ’ s a really exciting time to be a part of Tamworth FC .
I ’ m thankful for the opportunity and can ’ t wait to see our young players flourish over the coming seasons .
”

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Tamworth have signed former Birmingham City youth striker Shaquille McDonald.
The 24-year-old who has also played for Derby County, Peterborough United and FC Halifax arrives after a stint with Bromsgrove Sporting last season.
Lambs boss Gary Smith revealed the club had tried to sign McDonald last season but the move had fallen through.
(Image: Evening Gazette)
But he’s delighted to get his man at last.
“It didn’t happen at the time last summer as we had other priorities we had to get across the line first," Smith said.
“Tamworth fans will remember he scored two goals against us for Bromsgrove. He’s fast, sharp and has an eye for goal.
“He has a good CV as well. You don’t play for the likes of Blues, Derby and Peterborough if you don’t have something about you.”
Smith was also delighted to get Aaron Forde back on board for the new campaign.
"What a player! When Aaron Forde’s head is in the right place and he’s focused, he can play at a higher level," added Smith.
“He’s a fantastic player. He’s got great technique on the ball, he’s strong and solid and has a never-say-die attitude.
"He keeps the rest of the lads and the management on their toes! He has got real passion.”
Meanwhile, Ryan Hamilton has been appointed as the new Tamworth FC Boys’ and Girls’ Academy manager.
He takes over from Gordon Maskery, who was boys’ Academy manager, and Mark Bridgen, who previously held the girls’ position.
He said: “I’m delighted to have accepted the role of Academy manager at Tamworth, adding to my role as Tamworth Ladies first-team manager.
“I’ve been made to feel so welcome by the club and when the opportunity arose to become Academy manager I was really pleased.
“The club’s academy has already shown its quality and its success, particularly with the higher age groups, having more than 40 players come through the academy to play for the first team at step two and step three football.
“That is a phenomenal achievement and one I’m excited to be a part of.
“Academy director Mike Fowler has done a fantastic job in ensuring the academy is thriving from under-sevens through to our scholars and on to our senior development team.
“I intend to help expand, develop and push us forward across both our boys’ academy and girls’ academy, helping to develop all players as not just footballers but as people too, helping each person within our academy to reach their potential.
“We are starting with the expansion of our girls’ academy where we have added a senior development team, giving a clearer pathway to senior football.
“It’s a really exciting time to be a part of Tamworth FC. I’m thankful for the opportunity and can’t wait to see our young players flourish over the coming seasons.”


birminghammail--2020-07-02--Susanna Reid reveals reason she missed GMB today - and blames Gogglebox

Susanna Reid has broken her silence over missing Good Morning Britain today .
And the mum-of-three 's excuse for being absent from the ITV1 daytime TV show has left many surprised .
The GMB host spoke out after fans bombarded her with questions over her absence from the breakfast TV favourite on July 2 .
On Thursday , viewers flocked to social media to query where Susanna was , with Ben Shephard forced to presenter with a stand-in .
Ben was joined by co-presenter Ranvir Singh for the fourth episode of the week - and that left those tuning in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where are you ? ''
on Twitter , while a second asked : `` We are missing you Susanna '' .
Now , Susanna has revealed the reason for her absence , telling social media users it is all Gogglebox 's fault .
Currently , Susanna is appearing on the Channel 4 sofa-based favourite as it enjoys a celebrity spin-off .
Celebrity Gogglebox airs each Friday from 9pm , with Susanna seen on the show alongside pal Judge Rinder .
Today , Susanna was tied up on the sofa filming Gogglebox with her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV presenter admitted she still had `` hours and hours '' of TV to sit through for the show .
GMB airs on Friday from 6am once again .

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Susanna Reid has broken her silence over missing Good Morning Britain today.
And the mum-of-three's excuse for being absent from the ITV1 daytime TV show has left many surprised.
The GMB host spoke out after fans bombarded her with questions over her absence from the breakfast TV favourite on July 2.
On Thursday, viewers flocked to social media to query where Susanna was, with Ben Shephard forced to presenter with a stand-in.
Ben was joined by co-presenter Ranvir Singh for the fourth episode of the week - and that left those tuning in very surprised.
One asked Susanna "where are you?" on Twitter, while a second asked: "We are missing you Susanna".
Now, Susanna has revealed the reason for her absence, telling social media users it is all Gogglebox's fault.
Currently, Susanna is appearing on the Channel 4 sofa-based favourite as it enjoys a celebrity spin-off.
Celebrity Gogglebox airs each Friday from 9pm, with Susanna seen on the show alongside pal Judge Rinder.
Today, Susanna was tied up on the sofa filming Gogglebox with her unlikely showbiz pal this week.
The TV presenter admitted she still had "hours and hours" of TV to sit through for the show.
GMB airs on Friday from 6am once again.


birminghammail--2020-07-02--ALL Brits flying to Spain must fill out health form 48 hours before leaving

All Brits flying to out to Spain on a summer holiday abroad must now fill out a compulsory health form before traveling .
Holidaymakers jetting to Spain from UK airports in the hope of getting a bit of sun following months of lockdown must fill out a form and get a QR code .
But they must not complete it until 48 hours before they fly , under new measures introduced on July 1 .
Holidaymakers will have to complete this form before stepping on the plane , in order to be allowed into the country , and the reason @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details are completely up-to-date .
The document consists of five sections and requires : your passport identity number , information about your flight and where you will stay in Spain , and an email address .
Brits heading abroad will also need to know where they will be sitting on the plane .
To complete the form , you must upload your details to this website , where you will receive a QR code , which you must carry on your phone or a printed copy to pass the airport health checks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ returning Britons - are currently required to self-isolate for a fortnight to reduce the spread of coronavirus .
The UK Government is expected to announce a list of countries which will be exempt from the restrictions this week , but so far details have not been published .

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All Brits flying to out to Spain on a summer holiday abroad must now fill out a compulsory health form before traveling.
Holidaymakers jetting to Spain from UK airports in the hope of getting a bit of sun following months of lockdown must fill out a form and get a QR code.
But they must not complete it until 48 hours before they fly, under new measures introduced on July 1.
Holidaymakers will have to complete this form before stepping on the plane, in order to be allowed into the country, and the reason for the 48-hour rule is to ensure details are completely up-to-date.
The document consists of five sections and requires: your passport identity number, information about your flight and where you will stay in Spain, and an email address.
Brits heading abroad will also need to know where they will be sitting on the plane.
To complete the form, you must upload your details to this website, where you will receive a QR code, which you must carry on your phone or a printed copy to pass the airport health checks.
People arriving in the UK - including returning Britons - are currently required to self-isolate for a fortnight to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
The UK Government is expected to announce a list of countries which will be exempt from the restrictions this week, but so far details have not been published.


birminghammail--2020-07-02--Fury as bus drivers 'refuse to challenge' passengers for not wearing masks

Furious bus users have slammed drivers for allowing passengers to board 'without wearing face coverings ' - sparking fears of a second wave of coronavirus .
Commuters claim they 'no longer feel safe ' using public transport amid claims bus drivers 'refused to challenge ' passengers for not wearing masks .
One worried passenger said : `` It 's compulsory to wear face coverings on ALL public transport , so why are drivers letting people on without ? ''
But Unite the union , which represents more than 80,000 bus workers , said it was not the role of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it claimed the health of drivers was being put at risk by the 'failure of police and bus operators in dealing with the problem ' .
And the union said , as a result , a second spike in Covid-19 infections was 'becoming likely ' .
BirminghamLive has been contacted by a bus passenger who claimed they 'no longer felt safe ' using public transport .
The woman , who catches the number 46 to Sandwell Hospital every morning , said : `` Every day when I get on the bus there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face masks .
Then there are those who sit there with the masks under their chin leaving their mouth and nose exposed .
`` The bus driver this morning has not challenged one person getting on the bus with regards to not wearing a face covering .
`` I ’ m fed up of following procedures to protect other people when the bus company can not be bothered to reinforce government rules .
`` Why should members of the public pay to travel on a service that does not protect their customers that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very strongly about this and I ’ m getting to the point where I do not feel safe using public transport . ''
Meanwhile , passengers have inundated National Express West Midlands ' Facebook page with complaints .
One woman wrote : `` Currently sat on the fourth bus I have had to catch today and on every one of those buses there have been people without face coverings .
Why make the rules if they just do n't count ?
This will be my last bus journey for a while again .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ discover a third of those travelling on my bus wore no face coverings , were not challenged when getting on the bus , nor did they offer proof or an explanation , '' said another commuter .
`` Had no choice in using public transport as I had a hospital appointment but would hesitate journeying by bus if I had a choice . ''
While one man added : `` Today I travelled to work for the second time this week on the bus .
Yesterday it was National Express , today Stagecoach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wear face masks when using public transport , so why is it that on both days there were still people being allowed to travel without them ?
`` I have had coronavirus , it 's not nice , you would n't want to have it and you would n't want to give it to anyone else , so why take that risk ?
I asked the driver why these passengers had been allowed to travel without a mask and I was told they ca n't enforce it as drivers .
`` Surely they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any passenger ?
They have inspectors who can enforce this .
The wearing off masks is not a choice ! ''
Another woman wrote : `` I 'm sick of people not adhering to the Covid-19 precautions .
Every day bus drivers are letting people on the bus without wearing protective coverings , i.e .
masks .
Why state it is a requirement and you will be fined for not using one , then allow people on the bus without one ? ''
While another passenger added : `` It 's compulsory to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so why are your drivers letting people on without ?
I 've caught two buses today and both had passengers on without masks .
Are you above the law ? ''
`` Caught the bus for the first time in weeks .
I was one of a few people wearing masks .
Drivers should not let people on without , but when I asked him why he was he just shrugged .
They are not taking this situation seriously , '' said another traveller .
Responding to customer complaints , a National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has announced that customers will need to wear face coverings when using public transport .
`` Some people don ’ t have to wear a face covering including for health , age or equality reasons .
Please be aware that other customers may have perfectly valid reasons for not wearing a face covering - and these are not always obvious .
`` The government says it “ does not envisage that people relying on an age , health or disability-related exemption will routinely be required to produce any written evidence in support of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Midlands drivers are exercising reasonable discretion when applying this new rule .
`` We ask passengers to work with us and wear a face covering to protect themselves and other people .
We understand that it will take time for passengers to adapt .
We will be working with them - as well as Transport for West Midlands , the Department for Transport and other transport operators - to ensure public transport customers have the information they need to plan their journeys . ''
What the union says Unite - which represents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned a second spike in Covid-19 infections is becoming likely due to 'increasing non-compliance with face covering and social distancing rules ' on public transport .
The union issued its warning after transport secretary Grant Shapps announced bus and rail timetables would return to 85-per-cent of 'normal ' in early July .
Bobby Morton , Unite national officer for public transport , said : `` Unite members are increasingly reporting the rules on face coverings and social distancing on public transport , especially buses , are being flouted .
`` With the frequency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rising , the danger of a second spike will be greatly increased unless decisive action is taken to ensure the rules are followed .
`` It is not the role of bus drivers , nor do they have the power , to prevent someone without a face covering from boarding a bus .
`` The failure of bus operators and the police to deal with this increasing problem is potentially risking the health of bus workers and passengers , and could have disastrous consequences for the nation ’ s public health . ''

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Furious bus users have slammed drivers for allowing passengers to board 'without wearing face coverings' - sparking fears of a second wave of coronavirus.
Commuters claim they 'no longer feel safe' using public transport amid claims bus drivers 'refused to challenge' passengers for not wearing masks.
One worried passenger said: "It's compulsory to wear face coverings on ALL public transport, so why are drivers letting people on without?"
But Unite the union, which represents more than 80,000 bus workers, said it was not the role of the driver to enforce the rules.
Instead, it claimed the health of drivers was being put at risk by the 'failure of police and bus operators in dealing with the problem'.
And the union said, as a result, a second spike in Covid-19 infections was 'becoming likely'.
What passengers say
BirminghamLive has been contacted by a bus passenger who claimed they 'no longer felt safe' using public transport.
The woman, who catches the number 46 to Sandwell Hospital every morning, said: "Every day when I get on the bus there are passengers blatantly walking on with no face masks. Then there are those who sit there with the masks under their chin leaving their mouth and nose exposed.
"The bus driver this morning has not challenged one person getting on the bus with regards to not wearing a face covering.
"I’m fed up of following procedures to protect other people when the bus company cannot be bothered to reinforce government rules.
"Why should members of the public pay to travel on a service that does not protect their customers that DO follow protocol?
"I feel very strongly about this and I’m getting to the point where I do not feel safe using public transport."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Meanwhile, passengers have inundated National Express West Midlands' Facebook page with complaints.
One woman wrote: "Currently sat on the fourth bus I have had to catch today and on every one of those buses there have been people without face coverings. Why make the rules if they just don't count? This will be my last bus journey for a while again."
"I was quite shocked to discover a third of those travelling on my bus wore no face coverings, were not challenged when getting on the bus, nor did they offer proof or an explanation," said another commuter.
"Had no choice in using public transport as I had a hospital appointment but would hesitate journeying by bus if I had a choice."
While one man added: "Today I travelled to work for the second time this week on the bus. Yesterday it was National Express, today Stagecoach. It has been made compulsory to wear face masks when using public transport, so why is it that on both days there were still people being allowed to travel without them?
"I have had coronavirus, it's not nice, you wouldn't want to have it and you wouldn't want to give it to anyone else, so why take that risk? I asked the driver why these passengers had been allowed to travel without a mask and I was told they can't enforce it as drivers.
"Surely they have the right to refuse travel to any passenger? They have inspectors who can enforce this. The wearing off masks is not a choice!"
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Another woman wrote: "I'm sick of people not adhering to the Covid-19 precautions. Every day bus drivers are letting people on the bus without wearing protective coverings, i.e. masks. Why state it is a requirement and you will be fined for not using one, then allow people on the bus without one?"
While another passenger added: "It's compulsory to wear face coverings on ALL public transport, so why are your drivers letting people on without? I've caught two buses today and both had passengers on without masks. Are you above the law?"
"Caught the bus for the first time in weeks. I was one of a few people wearing masks. Drivers should not let people on without, but when I asked him why he was he just shrugged. They are not taking this situation seriously," said another traveller.
What National Express say
Responding to customer complaints, a National Express spokesperson said: "The government has announced that customers will need to wear face coverings when using public transport.
"Some people don’t have to wear a face covering including for health, age or equality reasons. Please be aware that other customers may have perfectly valid reasons for not wearing a face covering - and these are not always obvious.
"The government says it “does not envisage that people relying on an age, health or disability-related exemption will routinely be required to produce any written evidence in support of their reliance” - so National Express West Midlands drivers are exercising reasonable discretion when applying this new rule.
(Image: Birmingham Mail/Darren Quinton)
"We ask passengers to work with us and wear a face covering to protect themselves and other people. We understand that it will take time for passengers to adapt. We will be working with them - as well as Transport for West Midlands, the Department for Transport and other transport operators - to ensure public transport customers have the information they need to plan their journeys."
What the union says
Unite - which represents over over 80,000 bus workers - has warned a second spike in Covid-19 infections is becoming likely due to 'increasing non-compliance with face covering and social distancing rules' on public transport.
The union issued its warning after transport secretary Grant Shapps announced bus and rail timetables would return to 85-per-cent of 'normal' in early July.
Bobby Morton, Unite national officer for public transport, said: "Unite members are increasingly reporting the rules on face coverings and social distancing on public transport, especially buses, are being flouted.
"With the frequency of public transport increasing and passenger numbers rising, the danger of a second spike will be greatly increased unless decisive action is taken to ensure the rules are followed.
"It is not the role of bus drivers, nor do they have the power, to prevent someone without a face covering from boarding a bus.
"The failure of bus operators and the police to deal with this increasing problem is potentially risking the health of bus workers and passengers, and could have disastrous consequences for the nation’s public health."


birminghammail--2020-07-02--7 huge changes to driving lessons and tests as they restart from July 4

People will be able to take driving lessons again from July 4 .
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency 's ( DVLA ) chief executive ( Gareth Llewellyn ) will be writing to all approved driving instructors .
In the correspondence , he will set out plans to restart driver testing and to help them to return to life that is as close to normal as possible , as quickly and as fairly as possible , in a way that avoids a second peak of infections .
The team at Bill Plant Driving School have revealed changes students can expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , head of instructor support at Bill Plant Driving School , said : `` We are confident that all of our driving instructors will be taking all the necessary steps to protect themselves and their pupils within the course of each driving lesson , regardless of duration .
`` We will continue to adhere to guidelines outlined by both the Government and the DVSA and look forward to seeing our team return to work ; helping Britons learn to drive , pass their tests and safely drive for the rest of their lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , all tuition vehicles will be thoroughly cleaned with antibacterial cleaning products .
Key areas to be focused on include , but are not limited to ; door handles , seat belts , the steering wheel , gear stick and handbrake switch .
The national driving school are also recommending all driving instructors wear the relevant personal protective masks and gloves throughout each lesson , and pupils are also asked to wear a mask too .
Air conditioning will not be used throughout lessons , but the driving instructor will at all times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All pupils will be contacted ahead of their driving lesson to ensure they are feeling well and are symptom free .
No handshake will take place as a form of greeting , and social distancing will be maintained outside the vehicle .
Within the vehicle , the driving instructor and pupil will converse while facing forwards , avoiding any face-to-face contact , and the pupil is encouraged to use their pupil handbook during the lesson but it can no longer be passed between the two , nor will any other materials or pens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , pupils are requested to make electronic payments , where possible .

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People will be able to take driving lessons again from July 4.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency's (DVLA) chief executive (Gareth Llewellyn) will be writing to all approved driving instructors.
In the correspondence, he will set out plans to restart driver testing and to help them to return to life that is as close to normal as possible, as quickly and as fairly as possible, in a way that avoids a second peak of infections.
The team at Bill Plant Driving School have revealed changes students can expect to see during lessons.
Peter Brabin, head of instructor support at Bill Plant Driving School, said: "We are confident that all of our driving instructors will be taking all the necessary steps to protect themselves and their pupils within the course of each driving lesson, regardless of duration.
"We will continue to adhere to guidelines outlined by both the Government and the DVSA and look forward to seeing our team return to work; helping Britons learn to drive, pass their tests and safely drive for the rest of their lives."
Thorough cleaning
Before and after each lesson, all tuition vehicles will be thoroughly cleaned with antibacterial cleaning products.
Key areas to be focused on include, but are not limited to; door handles, seat belts, the steering wheel, gear stick and handbrake switch.
PPE
The national driving school are also recommending all driving instructors wear the relevant personal protective masks and gloves throughout each lesson, and pupils are also asked to wear a mask too.
No air con
Air conditioning will not be used throughout lessons, but the driving instructor will at all times ensure the car is well ventilated.
More communication
All pupils will be contacted ahead of their driving lesson to ensure they are feeling well and are symptom free.
No handshake
No handshake will take place as a form of greeting, and social distancing will be maintained outside the vehicle.
No face-to-face contact
Within the vehicle, the driving instructor and pupil will converse while facing forwards, avoiding any face-to-face contact, and the pupil is encouraged to use their pupil handbook during the lesson but it can no longer be passed between the two, nor will any other materials or pens be shared.
Electronic payments
In terms of payment, pupils are requested to make electronic payments, where possible.


birminghammail--2020-07-02--Door propped up on paint cans used to bag parking space

It 's the photo which appears to show how some city residents are using their DIY skills to guarantee a parking space .
Because one canny local has seemingly guaranteed themselves a spot for their car in in Moseley - by plonking a DOOR on top of paint cans in the street .
It appears to be the latest tactic used by desperate residents to bag themselves a parking space .
A stunned passer-by took a snap of the flat door propped up by paint cans on Springfield Road .
He claims the unusual combination was used for a week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the busy road but has since gone .
The bemused walker said : “ It was a house door on top of a couple of paint cans .
“ They would park up and when they were leaving , they would put it back .
Householders living in congested , mainly terraced lined , roads have used everything from sandbags , chairs , parking cones , wheelie bins , and wonkly-drawn disabled parking bays to guarantee a parking space .
Locals claim people are watching through their curtains or CCTV and placing items @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parkings spots become free .
Motorist Anwar Afzal was driving along Green Lane , Small Heath , on June 8 , when he saw three high-backed chairs lined up along the roadside , seemingly in a bid to block other motorists parking there .
Mr Afzal said : “ I knew exactly what they were for as people use cones and bins for the same reasons .
This was a new and more lightweight concept .
“ There is a supermarket across the road and people find it easier to park there than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When the chairs are there ... .
they move on and park elsewhere.
” A Birmingham City Council spokeswoman said : “ Residents do not have the legal right to park directly outside their own properties and neither do they have the right to reserve these spaces by obstructing the highway and preventing others from parking there legally .
“ Everyone has a right to use a public highway , and to park on it in accordance with the parking designations .
”

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It's the photo which appears to show how some city residents are using their DIY skills to guarantee a parking space.
Because one canny local has seemingly guaranteed themselves a spot for their car in in Moseley - by plonking a DOOR on top of paint cans in the street.
It appears to be the latest tactic used by desperate residents to bag themselves a parking space.
A stunned passer-by took a snap of the flat door propped up by paint cans on Springfield Road.
He claims the unusual combination was used for a week in June to reserve a space on the busy road but has since gone.
The bemused walker said: “It was a house door on top of a couple of paint cans.
“They would park up and when they were leaving, they would put it back.
“It was quite funny.”
Householders living in congested, mainly terraced lined, roads have used everything from sandbags, chairs, parking cones, wheelie bins, and wonkly-drawn disabled parking bays to guarantee a parking space.
Locals claim people are watching through their curtains or CCTV and placing items on the roadside as soon as the parkings spots become free.
Motorist Anwar Afzal was driving along Green Lane, Small Heath, on June 8, when he saw three high-backed chairs lined up along the roadside, seemingly in a bid to block other motorists parking there.
Mr Afzal said: “I knew exactly what they were for as people use cones and bins for the same reasons. This was a new and more lightweight concept.
“There is a supermarket across the road and people find it easier to park there than go into the car park.
“When the chairs are there.... they move on and park elsewhere.”
A Birmingham City Council spokeswoman said: “Residents do not have the legal right to park directly outside their own properties and neither do they have the right to reserve these spaces by obstructing the highway and preventing others from parking there legally.
“Everyone has a right to use a public highway, and to park on it in accordance with the parking designations.”


birminghammail--2020-07-02--Wolves hero Willy Boly responds to Arsenal transfer question

Will Boly has laughed off an Arsenal fan 's plea to join the Gunners , claiming he would only move if the entire Wolves team went with him .
Since the Frenchman 's return from a fractured fibula , Wolves have kept a staggering seven Premier League clean sheets in eight games , conceding just twice in the process .
It 's form that has left Wolves on the verge of a Champions League place , with Nuno Espirito Santo 's side just two points off a top-four berth .
And Boly 's form has n't gone unnoticed , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fan pleaded with him to move to the Emirates - but his request was given short shrift .
“ No never ! ''
he said .
“ Arsenal is a very good team , everyone can notice that .
But on paper we are not afraid of Arsenal .
“ Arsenal are coming to Wolverhampton on Saturday .
I don ’ t think they are going to win very easy .
“ So , I don ’ t have to go to Arsenal ... maybe if all the team goes there .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolves fans on social media were quick to react his comments , “ this is brilliant from Boly , ” one fan said .
“ Big Willy with the MicDrop , ” another claimed .
“ When Willy Boly laughs at the arsenal comment ... he 's outgrown them and so have we , ” a third proclaimed .
Before another admitted : `` Willy Boly is one of my favourite human beings and there is nothing anyone can do to change that . ''
Arsenal were linked with the central defender back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is set to sign a new contract in the coming weeks to end speculation on his long-term future .

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Will Boly has laughed off an Arsenal fan's plea to join the Gunners, claiming he would only move if the entire Wolves team went with him.
Since the Frenchman's return from a fractured fibula, Wolves have kept a staggering seven Premier League clean sheets in eight games, conceding just twice in the process.
It's form that has left Wolves on the verge of a Champions League place, with Nuno Espirito Santo's side just two points off a top-four berth.
And Boly's form hasn't gone unnoticed, in a rare interview with beIN SPORTS, a fan pleaded with him to move to the Emirates - but his request was given short shrift.
“No never!" he said.
“Arsenal is a very good team, everyone can notice that. But on paper we are not afraid of Arsenal.
“Arsenal are coming to Wolverhampton on Saturday. I don’t think they are going to win very easy.
“So, I don’t have to go to Arsenal...maybe if all the team goes there. I will probably be there.”
And Wolves fans on social media were quick to react his comments, “this is brilliant from Boly,” one fan said. “Big Willy with the MicDrop,” another claimed.
“When Willy Boly laughs at the arsenal comment...he's outgrown them and so have we,” a third proclaimed.
Before another admitted: "Willy Boly is one of my favourite human beings and there is nothing anyone can do to change that."
Arsenal were linked with the central defender back in March, but reports claim he is set to sign a new contract in the coming weeks to end speculation on his long-term future.


birminghammail--2020-07-02--Man, 29, charged with possession of weapon as cops rush to street

A man has been charged with carrying a weapon after police rushed to a street at 1am .
West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ of Robert Wynd in Bilston , was detained in Woodcross Street early on Wednesday , @ @ @ @ @ 999 call .
The 29-year-old was later charged and bailed before his court appearance at @ @ @ @ @ Thursday , August 6 .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` Craig @ @ @ @ @ in Bilston , has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon after being arrested @ @ @ @ @ 1am yesterday ( Wednesday , July 1 ) .
`` The 29-year-old has been bailed @ @ @ @ @ Walsall Magistrates ' Court on Thursday , August 6 . ''
In England and Wales @ @ @ @ @ carrying a knife illegally is four years in prison and an unlimited fine .
If @ @ @ @ @ a knife was used to commit a crime , the penalties could increase .

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A man has been charged with carrying a weapon after police rushed to a street at 1am.
West Midlands Police said Craig Miller, of Robert Wynd in Bilston, was detained in Woodcross Street early on Wednesday, July 1, following a 999 call.
The 29-year-old was later charged and bailed before his court appearance at Walsall Magistrates' Court on Thursday, August 6.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "Craig Miller, of Robert Wynd in Bilston, has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon after being arrested in Woodcross Street at around 1am yesterday (Wednesday, July 1).
"The 29-year-old has been bailed before his court appearance at Walsall Magistrates' Court on Thursday, August 6."
In England and Wales, the maximum sentence for carrying a knife illegally is four years in prison and an unlimited fine. If injury is caused, or a knife was used to commit a crime, the penalties could increase.


birminghammail--2020-07-02--Kittens found dumped in crisp box

Kittens found dumped in crisp box

A litter of kittens have been found abandoned in a cardboard box under a bridge near the canal in Tamworth .
A member of public spotted the black kittens in a crisp box - they were panting and showing signs of being affected on one of the hottest days of the year .
The kittens were handed in to Melbourne and Mercia Vet Centre , where the team was able to give them a thorough check and found them to be largely healthy .
Thought to be around 10-weeks old , there was nothing in the box that could identify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The vets called in the Lichfield and Tamworth Branch of Cats Protection , who , thanks to the easing of lockdown restrictions , were able to bring the kittens in to care .
As a result of Covid-19 , Branch Welfare and Neutering Team Leader Sue Hocknell wore full PPE when handling the kittens in the initial 72-hours of taking them in .
She said : “ I dread to think what could have happened to them if they had not been discovered in time .
“ The weather was so hot and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fend for themselves .
“ When I got them home it was clear they were extremely hungry and I had to stop them eating too much as they gobbled down anything that was put in front of them .
“ Although we have no idea where they have come from or their background , they are definitely used to being handled , and whenever I enter the room they are soon climbing all over me.
” Lichfield and Tamworth Cats Protection has now launched a fundraising drive to help cover the costs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vet treatment .
The branch is unable to raise funds with face-to-face events at present , meaning the branch is not bringing in money but is still paying out for food and vet bills during lockdown .
The litter will remain in foster care until they receive their vaccinations , and are neutered and microchipped .
“ We fear there will be a rise in the number of unwanted kittens this year due to the reduced number of vets who have been able to undertake neutering over the past few months , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ask people who are really struggling to get in touch with us before abandoning cats to the elements.
” Anyone wishing to donate can do so at https : //www.cats.org.uk/lichfield or via the branch ’ s Facebook page at https : //www.facebook.com/LichfieldCatsProtection/ If you would like to purchase any items for the kittens while they are in foster care the branch has an Amazon wishlist at https : //www.amazon.co.uk/registry/wishlist/1E86VUF6BYUKR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_ws_CqItBbY8SCSKP Cats Protection is urging people to keep their unneutered cats indoors , and also unneutered males , females and siblings apart , until vet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neutering .
The branch can be contacted for advice on neutering and/or help towards neutering costs by calling their helpline on 0345 371 2741 or emailing neutering @ lichfield.cats.org.uk .
The charity has produced an infographic with useful tips on how to stop cats becoming pregnant at https : //www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/neutering-and-vaccinations/neutering-your-cat

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A litter of kittens have been found abandoned in a cardboard box under a bridge near the canal in Tamworth.
A member of public spotted the black kittens in a crisp box - they were panting and showing signs of being affected on one of the hottest days of the year.
The kittens were handed in to Melbourne and Mercia Vet Centre, where the team was able to give them a thorough check and found them to be largely healthy.
Thought to be around 10-weeks old, there was nothing in the box that could identify where the kittens had come from.
The vets called in the Lichfield and Tamworth Branch of Cats Protection, who, thanks to the easing of lockdown restrictions, were able to bring the kittens in to care.
As a result of Covid-19, Branch Welfare and Neutering Team Leader Sue Hocknell wore full PPE when handling the kittens in the initial 72-hours of taking them in.
She said: “I dread to think what could have happened to them if they had not been discovered in time.
“The weather was so hot and these kittens would not have been able to fend for themselves.
“When I got them home it was clear they were extremely hungry and I had to stop them eating too much as they gobbled down anything that was put in front of them.
“Although we have no idea where they have come from or their background, they are definitely used to being handled, and whenever I enter the room they are soon climbing all over me.”
Lichfield and Tamworth Cats Protection has now launched a fundraising drive to help cover the costs of caring for the kittens, including vet treatment.
The branch is unable to raise funds with face-to-face events at present, meaning the branch is not bringing in money but is still paying out for food and vet bills during lockdown.
The litter will remain in foster care until they receive their vaccinations, and are neutered and microchipped.
“We fear there will be a rise in the number of unwanted kittens this year due to the reduced number of vets who have been able to undertake neutering over the past few months,” added Sue.
“But we would ask people who are really struggling to get in touch with us before abandoning cats to the elements.”
Anyone wishing to donate can do so at https://www.cats.org.uk/lichfield or via the branch’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LichfieldCatsProtection/
If you would like to purchase any items for the kittens while they are in foster care the branch has an Amazon wishlist at https://www.amazon.co.uk/registry/wishlist/1E86VUF6BYUKR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_ws_CqItBbY8SCSKP
Cats Protection is urging people to keep their unneutered cats indoors, and also unneutered males, females and siblings apart, until vet practices can become fully operational and resume neutering.
The branch can be contacted for advice on neutering and/or help towards neutering costs by calling their helpline on 0345 371 2741 or emailing neutering@lichfield.cats.org.uk.
The charity has produced an infographic with useful tips on how to stop cats becoming pregnant at https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/neutering-and-vaccinations/neutering-your-cat


birminghammail--2020-07-02--McDonald's removes popular feature from restaurants after reopening

McDonald 's has left fans absolutely gutted by removing a key attraction from its fast food joints .
Just days after re-opening drive-thrus across the country , the fast food giant has been forced to reveal the Monopoly promotion has been canned .
The fast food chain , which operates more restaurants in Birmingham than any other UK city outside of London , confirmed the news in an email .
Fans of the chain have been left delighted as restaurants re-opened across the country last month .
Drive-thrus were opened throughout Birmingham as fans flocked for burgers , fries and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McDonald 's shuttered all its sites across the UK in mid-March as the Covid-19 pandemic spread , with the coronavirus crisis sparking a nationwide shutdown .
But as the lockdown ends , McDonald 's is back operating - albeit with no Monopoly this year , according to bosses at the fast food firm .
McDonald ’ s CEO Paul Pomroy took a moment to loop fans on the return of McDonald ’ s Monopoly - and it sadly won ’ t be returning in 2020 .
He said : “ We took the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year ’ s Monopoly promotion was due to launch .
“ We know many of you enjoy this promotion , which has run since 2005 in the UK .
“ To enable safe working and social distancing inside our restaurants and to minimise the pressure on our employees , we have decided to cancel this year ’ s Monopoly VIP campaign .
“ It creates a great deal of excitement inside our restaurants and relies heavily upon menu items we can not safely reintroduce yet .
“ Rest assured , we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be able to bring this popular promotion back next Spring .
”

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McDonald's has left fans absolutely gutted by removing a key attraction from its fast food joints.
Just days after re-opening drive-thrus across the country, the fast food giant has been forced to reveal the Monopoly promotion has been canned.
The fast food chain, which operates more restaurants in Birmingham than any other UK city outside of London, confirmed the news in an email.
Fans of the chain have been left delighted as restaurants re-opened across the country last month.
Drive-thrus were opened throughout Birmingham as fans flocked for burgers, fries and soft drinks after months of lockdown.
McDonald's shuttered all its sites across the UK in mid-March as the Covid-19 pandemic spread, with the coronavirus crisis sparking a nationwide shutdown.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
But as the lockdown ends, McDonald's is back operating - albeit with no Monopoly this year, according to bosses at the fast food firm.
McDonald’s CEO Paul Pomroy took a moment to loop fans on the return of McDonald’s Monopoly - and it sadly won’t be returning in 2020.
He said: “We took the decision to close our restaurants shortly before this year’s Monopoly promotion was due to launch.
“We know many of you enjoy this promotion, which has run since 2005 in the UK.
“To enable safe working and social distancing inside our restaurants and to minimise the pressure on our employees, we have decided to cancel this year’s Monopoly VIP campaign.
“It creates a great deal of excitement inside our restaurants and relies heavily upon menu items we cannot safely reintroduce yet.
“Rest assured, we are already planning for Monopoly 2021 and hope to be able to bring this popular promotion back next Spring.”