birminghammail--2020-08-14--Lorry ploughs into M6 bridge - driver taken to hospital

A driver has been taken to hospital after a lorry smashed into a bridge on the M6 during the early hours .
Emergency services were called to the northbound junctions 14 and 15 at 2.37am , today ( August 14 ) after the crash which has caused long delays .
Medics assessed and treated the male trucker for injuries not believed to be serious and he was taken to Royal Stoke Hospital .
Dramatic pictures from the scene show debris from the central reservation strewn across the carriageway .
Structural engineers are now on scene assessing the damage to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tweets warning motorists about the incident and delays .
The latest message said : `` Update from scene - specialist recovery of the HGV is taking place .
`` Structural engineers are on scene to assess the post/bridge damage .
Fire and a clean up crew are on scene to deal with a diesel spill .
Updates will follow .
Thank you for your patience . ''
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called at 2.37am to reports of a lorry that had collided with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We sent one ambulance and a paramedic officer to the scene .
We assessed one patient , the driver , who was a man .
He was out of the lorry on our arrival .
`` He was treated for injuries not believed to be serious and taken to Royal Stoke Hospital . ''

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A driver has been taken to hospital after a lorry smashed into a bridge on the M6 during the early hours.
Emergency services were called to the northbound junctions 14 and 15 at 2.37am, today ( August 14) after the crash which has caused long delays.
Medics assessed and treated the male trucker for injuries not believed to be serious and he was taken to Royal Stoke Hospital.
Dramatic pictures from the scene show debris from the central reservation strewn across the carriageway.
Structural engineers are now on scene assessing the damage to the bridge.
Highways England posted a series of tweets warning motorists about the incident and delays.
The latest message said: "Update from scene - specialist recovery of the HGV is taking place.
"Structural engineers are on scene to assess the post/bridge damage. Fire and a clean up crew are on scene to deal with a diesel spill. Updates will follow. Thank you for your patience."
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 2.37am to reports of a lorry that had collided with a bridge northbound at junctions 14 and 15.
"We sent one ambulance and a paramedic officer to the scene. We assessed one patient, the driver, who was a man. He was out of the lorry on our arrival.
"He was treated for injuries not believed to be serious and taken to Royal Stoke Hospital."


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Blues fans provide Aitor Karanka Championship expectancy briefing

Aitor Karanka has been in his Birmingham City post for exactly a fortnight and , today , the Spaniard will be officially unveiled at St Andrew 's .
The 46-year-old has been working with the group of players at Wast Hills this past week ahead of the 2020/21 Championship campaign .
The new season will begin next month with Blues having already confirmed a friendly with Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday , August 29 ( 3pm kick-off ) .
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Google Play Store and App Store Karanka , of course , is without Jude Bellingham following his £20 million move to Dortmund .
The likes of Lee Camp , Jacques Maghoma and Kerim Mrabti have all departed , too , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to join AFC Wimbledon on-loan .
Scott Hogan has also returned to Aston Villa .
This week , though , Elche 's left-winger Ivan Sanchez is said to be close to signing for Blues on a free transfer , yet Karanka remains short of options at present as he continues to prepare to bring in a whole host of new additions to put his own stamp on his new club .
The Championship fixtures will be out this time next week ( August 21 ) ahead of the new season starting from September @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City supporters a simple question : What would you class as a successful season for Birmingham City in 20/21 ?
Here 's how the fans are feeling : Steve Birkett : Safety secured in the division , a team with a vision from the manager that is backed by the owners who are financially stable .
In other words , a base to build on that us fans can be proud of , like a proper club .
We live in hope .
KRO .
Richard Morgan Dickens : All depends on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then top half finish .
Owners need to invest pretty heavily .
Charles Goodman : Mid table should be the aim .
Playoff the dream .
I think these days you need to win the Championship to have any long term chance in the Prem , and we 're many years from that .
Des Fox : Champions would be classed as a success - if you want our opinion on where we think we ’ ll finish - that is an entirely different question ( 12th is my optimistic forecast ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And definitely not having to worry about relegation till the dying moments of the season .
Roger Barnes : Wining home games and pushing for a top six finish .
Should be possible with the right additions .
Dan Green : 1 manager all season would be a start .
Stephen Massey : It ’ s important we restore reassurance that this club is together as one and management strong though out .
If the fans feel that then we will do well this season , us fans have been badly let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loads of money into the club and not to mention the dedication and commitment into following the club .
Kro .
Paul Phillip Lum : Top half with Karanka still here .
Side note I am also willing Dong to realise his faults and give Karanka what he needs and not what Dong thinks he needs .
This is a fresh start .
Let 's do it !
Martin Slater : Dong to let the manager manage , few decent additions and a top half finish .
Steven Gillett : Judging by our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go .
Hopefully the new manager will install some stability and be able to do what he wants with the squad .
Steve Lines : Stability mid table Finnish.AK to model his own Team with out interference from that Mob who currently run Blues .
Peter Brotherton : Promotion obviously .
Anything less is accepting we are happy at plodding along & never in with a shout of winning a major trophy .
That ’ s always been the problem .
Steve Goodenough : Mid table , with the ability to raise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to aim to try for promotion within 3 years .
Kieron McKeown : I 'd take more wins than defeats as a huge bonus .
Like one more win would he a fabulous season for me .
Then just slowly build .

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Aitor Karanka has been in his Birmingham City post for exactly a fortnight and, today, the Spaniard will be officially unveiled at St Andrew's.
The 46-year-old has been working with the group of players at Wast Hills this past week ahead of the 2020/21 Championship campaign.
The new season will begin next month with Blues having already confirmed a friendly with Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, August 29 (3pm kick-off).
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Karanka, of course, is without Jude Bellingham following his £20 million move to Dortmund. The likes of Lee Camp, Jacques Maghoma and Kerim Mrabti have all departed, too, with goalkeeper Connall Trueman also allowed to leave to join AFC Wimbledon on-loan. Scott Hogan has also returned to Aston Villa.
This week, though, Elche's left-winger Ivan Sanchez is said to be close to signing for Blues on a free transfer, yet Karanka remains short of options at present as he continues to prepare to bring in a whole host of new additions to put his own stamp on his new club.
The Championship fixtures will be out this time next week (August 21) ahead of the new season starting from September 12. Here, we asked Birmingham City supporters a simple question: What would you class as a successful season for Birmingham City in 20/21?
Here's how the fans are feeling:
(Image: Bradley Collyer/PA Wire)
Steve Birkett : Safety secured in the division, a team with a vision from the manager that is backed by the owners who are financially stable. In other words, a base to build on that us fans can be proud of, like a proper club. We live in hope. KRO.
Richard Morgan Dickens : All depends on the new recruits. If we buy well then top half finish. Owners need to invest pretty heavily.
Charles Goodman : Mid table should be the aim. Playoff the dream. I think these days you need to win the Championship to have any long term chance in the Prem, and we're many years from that.
Des Fox : Champions would be classed as a success - if you want our opinion on where we think we’ll finish - that is an entirely different question (12th is my optimistic forecast).
Matthew O'Neill : Mid table or higher. And definitely not having to worry about relegation till the dying moments of the season.
Roger Barnes : Wining home games and pushing for a top six finish. Should be possible with the right additions.
Dan Green : 1 manager all season would be a start.
Stephen Massey : It’s important we restore reassurance that this club is together as one and management strong though out. If the fans feel that then we will do well this season, us fans have been badly let down by these owners after shedding out loads of money into the club and not to mention the dedication and commitment into following the club. Kro.
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Paul Phillip Lum : Top half with Karanka still here. Side note I am also willing Dong to realise his faults and give Karanka what he needs and not what Dong thinks he needs. This is a fresh start. Let's do it!
Martin Slater : Dong to let the manager manage, few decent additions and a top half finish.
Steven Gillett : Judging by our last performances we have a long way to go. Hopefully the new manager will install some stability and be able to do what he wants with the squad.
Steve Lines : Stability mid table Finnish.AK to model his own Team with out interference from that Mob who currently run Blues.
Peter Brotherton : Promotion obviously. Anything less is accepting we are happy at plodding along & never in with a shout of winning a major trophy. That’s always been the problem.
Steve Goodenough : Mid table, with the ability to raise and keep youth professionals at the club to aim to try for promotion within 3 years.
Kieron McKeown : I'd take more wins than defeats as a huge bonus. Like one more win would he a fabulous season for me. Then just slowly build.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Manchester United fan gives verdict on Jack Grealish deal after setback

Jack Grealish 's potential move to Manchester United may look very much on the rocks , but that does n't mean fans crave his signature any less .
Reports this week have suggested United would struggle to afford Grealish should they land priority target Jadon Sancho , worth more than £100m .
And with each passing day , Grealish 's potential Aston Villa exit to Old Trafford seems to be getting more unlikely .
But United fans still want the attacking midfielder this summer , or particularly Adam McKola from fan channel Stretford Paddock does .
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The future of star player Jack Grealish is the biggest talking point of the summer and we will bring you all the news around his future .
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Google Play Store and App Store '' I think this Jack Grealish deal will depend on how much we give up for Jadon Sancho , '' he told BBC Sport .
`` Now that Aston Villa have stayed up , they can demand £60m , £70m , £80m for him , and United are in a position where we do n't have those funds available to sign a player who would n't be first choice but is still needed .
`` When we have no Paul Pogba , no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much creativity .
`` He is someone the crowd would love , he would get you on the edge of your seat and can occupy the role behind the striker .
`` He would be able to create chances for Manchester United . ''
McKola also took a cheeky swing at fans who are n't happy about the amount of penalties United won last season , joking that Grealish would only help them increase that number .
He added : `` People are already moaning about how many penalties we get , could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grealish as well ? ''
Grealish is under contract with Villa until 2023 and following their survival , they are in a strong position when it comes to the negotiating table .
The club want £80m for their star playmaker , and that might just back United into a corner they ca n't spend their way out of .

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Jack Grealish's potential move to Manchester United may look very much on the rocks, but that doesn't mean fans crave his signature any less.
Reports this week have suggested United would struggle to afford Grealish should they land priority target Jadon Sancho, worth more than £100m.
And with each passing day, Grealish's potential Aston Villa exit to Old Trafford seems to be getting more unlikely.
But United fans still want the attacking midfielder this summer, or particularly Adam McKola from fan channel Stretford Paddock does.
Sign up to our Aston Villa newsletter for David Brooks updates Why should you sign up? Aston Villa have been strongly linked with a move for Bournemouth midfielder David Brooks. Sign up for our daily Villa bulletin and you can get the latest updates on any move for Brooks straight to your inbox. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store.
"I think this Jack Grealish deal will depend on how much we give up for Jadon Sancho," he told BBC Sport.
"Now that Aston Villa have stayed up, they can demand £60m, £70m, £80m for him, and United are in a position where we don't have those funds available to sign a player who wouldn't be first choice but is still needed.
"When we have no Paul Pogba, no Bruno Fernandes, we haven't got much creativity.
"He is someone the crowd would love, he would get you on the edge of your seat and can occupy the role behind the striker.
"He would be able to create chances for Manchester United."
McKola also took a cheeky swing at fans who aren't happy about the amount of penalties United won last season, joking that Grealish would only help them increase that number.
He added: "People are already moaning about how many penalties we get, could you imagine if we brought in Jack Grealish as well?"
Grealish is under contract with Villa until 2023 and following their survival, they are in a strong position when it comes to the negotiating table.
The club want £80m for their star playmaker, and that might just back United into a corner they can't spend their way out of.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--DPD staff forced to self-isolate after Covid-19 outbreak at delivery hub

Staff at a regional parcel delivery company have been forced to self-isolate following a Covid-19 outbreak at a Black Country hub .
DPD UK has confirmed that around 12 members of staff who work at their site in Broadwell Road , Oldbury , have tested positive for the deadly virus since July 31 .
Sandwell Council and Public Health England have been drafted in and are now working with the parcel delivery company .
A number of staff at the hub are currently self-isolating to help prevent the further spread of infection .
Further testing of staff is planned to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Sandwell Council ’ s Deputy Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said : `` We would like to thank DPD UK for their co-operation .
That ’ s what we need all businesses to do as soon as they become aware of positive cases.
” She added : `` It ’ s vital businesses keep their employees safe and it may also help prevent a temporary closure of their workplace .
`` This is another reminder that everyone – wherever they live , work or visit – needs to stay vigilant .
The virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remains very serious.
” Director of Public Health Dr Lisa McNally said : `` DPD UK alerted us to this outbreak and are taking all the necessary steps to make sure employees who need to isolate are doing so .
This is important to stop other people becoming ill. '' Businesses should ensure that their staff do not come into the workplace if they have symptoms , have tested positive or have been in contact with a confirmed case .
If a business does have two or more coronavirus cases in their workplace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as possible at www.healthysandwell.co.uk/covid . ''
The risk to the general public is low and the risk of catching COVID from parcels remains extremely low .
Basic hygiene measures such as social distancing and hand washing are really important at keeping everyone safe .
Anyone with symptoms should self-isolate at home for ten days and arrange to be tested .
Dwain McDonald , CEO of DPD , said : `` We would like to thank Sandwell Council and Dr Lisa McNally and her team for their speedy and effective response in helping us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would expect for a major employer in the area , the safety and well-being of our people is our top priority .
We will continue to work closely with the Public Health team moving forward . ''
Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 ( a high temperature , a new , continuous cough or a loss of change of smell or taste ) must book a test as soon as possible by going online to www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119 .
More information on the coronavirus pandemic in Sandwell is available on the Healthy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off Broadwell Road , Oldbury , includes a regional distribution hub as well as a local delivery depot .

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Staff at a regional parcel delivery company have been forced to self-isolate following a Covid-19 outbreak at a Black Country hub.
DPD UK has confirmed that around 12 members of staff who work at their site in Broadwell Road, Oldbury, have tested positive for the deadly virus since July 31.
Sandwell Council and Public Health England have been drafted in and are now working with the parcel delivery company.
A number of staff at the hub are currently self-isolating to help prevent the further spread of infection. Further testing of staff is planned to ensure that all cases have been identified.
Sandwell Council’s Deputy Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said: "We would like to thank DPD UK for their co-operation. That’s what we need all businesses to do as soon as they become aware of positive cases.”
She added: "It’s vital businesses keep their employees safe and it may also help prevent a temporary closure of their workplace.
"This is another reminder that everyone – wherever they live, work or visit – needs to stay vigilant. The virus is still out there and the situation remains very serious.”
Director of Public Health Dr Lisa McNally said: "DPD UK alerted us to this outbreak and are taking all the necessary steps to make sure employees who need to isolate are doing so. This is important to stop other people becoming ill.
"Businesses should ensure that their staff do not come into the workplace if they have symptoms, have tested positive or have been in contact with a confirmed case. If a business does have two or more coronavirus cases in their workplace then they must notify us as soon as possible at www.healthysandwell.co.uk/covid."
The risk to the general public is low and the risk of catching COVID from parcels remains extremely low.
Basic hygiene measures such as social distancing and hand washing are really important at keeping everyone safe. Anyone with symptoms should self-isolate at home for ten days and arrange to be tested.
Dwain McDonald, CEO of DPD, said: "We would like to thank Sandwell Council and Dr Lisa McNally and her team for their speedy and effective response in helping us to manage this situation. As you would expect for a major employer in the area, the safety and well-being of our people is our top priority. We will continue to work closely with the Public Health team moving forward."
Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss of change of smell or taste) must book a test as soon as possible by going online to www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
More information on the coronavirus pandemic in Sandwell is available on the Healthy Sandwell website at www.healthysandwell.co.uk/covid
The DPD site off Broadwell Road, Oldbury, includes a regional distribution hub as well as a local delivery depot.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Wolves target Ismaila Sarr hints at £40m Liverpool transfer

Ismaila Sarr has opened the door for a move to Liverpool amid reports Wolverhampton Wanderers are keen on signing the winger from Watford .
Sarr , 22 , is expected to leave Watford this summer after the Hornets were relegated to the Championship .
He scored six goals in 30 top-flight appearances having arrived as the club 's record signing from Rennes for £30m last year .
According to the Watford Observer , Wolves are one of three Premier League clubs who have already been in contact with Sarr 's representatives .
There 's a quick and easy way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
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It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Nuno Espirito Santo revealed his plans to strengthen the Wolves squad after Tuesday 's Europa League quarter-final defeat to Sevilla .
“ For example , now it ’ s time to reflect and analyse , '' the head coach said .
`` If you look at the team that started the game , it ’ s the same , like the first season .
We made mistakes that we can not repeat .
We need players that can make us stronger , no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been linked with Sarr and the £40m-rated Senegal international has hinted he would be interested in a move to Anfield .
`` Liverpool are a really great team , everyone would love to play there , '' he told Senegal Les Echos , via the Metro .
`` They won the Premier League this year and the Champions League last year .
But also there are great teams in the English league .
`` Frankly , I have yet to make a choice .
If that were to happen , I just wish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the moment , there are only guesses . ''
Sarr added : `` I still have years of contract with Watford , another four years .
`` If Watford want me to stay , I 'll play in the Championship , my departure also depends on them .
I really do n't know what to say .
We are going to play in the Championship since there is no transfer yet . ''

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Ismaila Sarr has opened the door for a move to Liverpool amid reports Wolverhampton Wanderers are keen on signing the winger from Watford.
Sarr, 22, is expected to leave Watford this summer after the Hornets were relegated to the Championship.
He scored six goals in 30 top-flight appearances having arrived as the club's record signing from Rennes for £30m last year.
According to the Watford Observer, Wolves are one of three Premier League clubs who have already been in contact with Sarr's representatives.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Nuno Espirito Santo revealed his plans to strengthen the Wolves squad after Tuesday's Europa League quarter-final defeat to Sevilla.
“For example, now it’s time to reflect and analyse," the head coach said. "If you look at the team that started the game, it’s the same, like the first season. We made mistakes that we cannot repeat. We need players that can make us stronger, no doubt about it.”
Liverpool have also been linked with Sarr and the £40m-rated Senegal international has hinted he would be interested in a move to Anfield.
"Liverpool are a really great team, everyone would love to play there," he told Senegal Les Echos, via the Metro. "They won the Premier League this year and the Champions League last year. But also there are great teams in the English league.
"Frankly, I have yet to make a choice. If that were to happen, I just wish they were a good team. At the moment, there are only guesses."
Sarr added: "I still have years of contract with Watford, another four years.
"If Watford want me to stay, I'll play in the Championship, my departure also depends on them. I really don't know what to say. We are going to play in the Championship since there is no transfer yet."


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Leeds 'willing to meet' asking price for Aston Villa target Campana

Leeds United are ready to meet the asking price for Aston Villa target Jose Gomez Campana , according to reports .
Campana , 27 , is reportedly being tracked by a host of Premier League clubs including Villa having impressed in La Liga for Levante .
Dean Smith and new sporting director Johan Lange have been given extra funds by owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens to strengthen Villa 's squad after narrowly avoiding relegation .
But former Porto midfielder Campana could be on his way to newly-promoted Leeds , if reports in the Portuguese press are to be believed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
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It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
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Google Play Store and App Store Record claims Marcelo Bielsa 's side are 'willing to meet ' Levante 's asking price of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under-21 international , Campana spent a short stint in England with Crystal Palace but did n't make a big impression at Selhurst Park before leaving for Sampdoria in 2014 .
His manager Paco Lopez admitted at the start of the month the 'possibility always exists ' that Levante could sell their star players .
He said : `` The club has not passed on to me any decision that he should be sold to anyone .
At no time , on the contrary .
We know what club we are in and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Campana has also been linked with Atletico Madrid and Villarreal , though his preference is believed to be a return to Sevilla where he started his professional career .

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Leeds United are ready to meet the asking price for Aston Villa target Jose Gomez Campana, according to reports.
Campana, 27, is reportedly being tracked by a host of Premier League clubs including Villa having impressed in La Liga for Levante.
Dean Smith and new sporting director Johan Lange have been given extra funds by owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens to strengthen Villa's squad after narrowly avoiding relegation.
But former Porto midfielder Campana could be on his way to newly-promoted Leeds, if reports in the Portuguese press are to be believed.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Record claims Marcelo Bielsa's side are 'willing to meet' Levante's asking price of £27.1m this summer.
A former Spain under-21 international, Campana spent a short stint in England with Crystal Palace but didn't make a big impression at Selhurst Park before leaving for Sampdoria in 2014.
His manager Paco Lopez admitted at the start of the month the 'possibility always exists' that Levante could sell their star players.
He said: "The club has not passed on to me any decision that he should be sold to anyone. At no time, on the contrary. We know what club we are in and we know that this possibility always exists."
Campana has also been linked with Atletico Madrid and Villarreal, though his preference is believed to be a return to Sevilla where he started his professional career.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Coronavirus cases spike again with highest daily total for months

The number of people testing positive for Covid-19 in Worcestershire has jumped in a week with the country recording its highest daily total in more than two months .
Following a rise in positive cases in July , in part due to the coronavirus outbreak at Evesham Vale Growers in Blackminster , cases then fell back .
But now after a revised 19 cases in the week to August 5 ( an increase in four of the number previously reported ) , cases have risen again to 22 in the week to August 12 .
There were 13 cases recorded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ –which was the highest single day total since June 6 when 13 cases were also recorded , but fell thereafter .
Bromsgrove and Worcester accounted for 10 of those 13 , five in each area on August 10 , with Bromsgrove recording nine cases in the week to August 12 and 13 this month , the highest in the county .
The next highest in August is Wychavon with 12 , then Worcester with eight , Redditch with four and Malvern Hills with two positive Covid cases .
Wyre Forest has not had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far .
That area ’ s last recorded cases was one on July 25 and previous to that a single case on July 16 .
So far in August there have been 39 positive Covid-19 cases in Worcestershire to August 14 , with the last few days likely to be revised upwards as more test results come through .
There were 86 cases in July , 151 in June , 591 in May , 1,275 in April and 325 from March 9 , when the first Covid case was recorded , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive Covid cases recorded in Worcestershire now stands at 2,476 .
While cases rise deaths continue to be minimal .
The Office for National Statistics weekly figures revealed one death where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate in the week to July 31 – the latest data .
That was of a Worcester resident who died in a hospital .
The last recorded Covid-19 death at a Worcestershire hospital was on July 27 at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust .
The total deaths where a positive Covid-19 test was recorded at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The last death at a Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust hospital was on June 1 - there have been 28 Covid-related deaths at their sites , with 306 Covid deaths at Worcestershire hospitals .
So the total Covid-19-related deaths registered in the county is now 528 since the pandemic began .
Of those 133 were of Bromsgrove residents , 74 in hospital , 54 in a care home , four elsewhere and one in a communal establishment .
Wyre Forest has had 115 Covid deaths of its residents with 65 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nine at home and two in other communal settings .
There have been 110 deaths now of Wychavon residents : 49 in hospital , 48 in care homes , five at home , one elsewhere , two in hospices andfour in other communal settings .
Worcester has had 63 deaths : 29 in hospitals , 27 in care homes , four in a home , one in a hospice and two other communal .
Redditch has had 60 deaths related to the pandemic ’ s disease- there have been 49 hospital Covid deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home , one other communal .
While Malvern Hills has had 47 Covid deaths – 24 in hospitals , 20 at a care home , two at home and one other communal .
Nationally the excess deaths figure – considered the true measure of the effects of the pandemic – was below the five-year-average for the seventh-week running .

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The number of people testing positive for Covid-19 in Worcestershire has jumped in a week with the country recording its highest daily total in more than two months.
Following a rise in positive cases in July, in part due to the coronavirus outbreak at Evesham Vale Growers in Blackminster, cases then fell back.
But now after a revised 19 cases in the week to August 5 (an increase in four of the number previously reported), cases have risen again to 22 in the week to August 12.
There were 13 cases recorded in a single day – August 10 –which was the highest single day total since June 6 when 13 cases were also recorded, but fell thereafter.
Bromsgrove and Worcester accounted for 10 of those 13, five in each area on August 10, with Bromsgrove recording nine cases in the week to August 12 and 13 this month, the highest in the county.
The next highest in August is Wychavon with 12, then Worcester with eight, Redditch with four and Malvern Hills with two positive Covid cases.
Wyre Forest has not had a single positive Covid-19 case in August so far. That area’s last recorded cases was one on July 25 and previous to that a single case on July 16.
So far in August there have been 39 positive Covid-19 cases in Worcestershire to August 14, with the last few days likely to be revised upwards as more test results come through.
There were 86 cases in July, 151 in June, 591 in May, 1,275 in April and 325 from March 9, when the first Covid case was recorded, to March 31.
(Image: Google)
The total number of positive Covid cases recorded in Worcestershire now stands at 2,476.
While cases rise deaths continue to be minimal.
The Office for National Statistics weekly figures revealed one death where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate in the week to July 31 – the latest data.
That was of a Worcester resident who died in a hospital.
The last recorded Covid-19 death at a Worcestershire hospital was on July 27 at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust. The total deaths where a positive Covid-19 test was recorded at the county’s acute hospitals is 278.
The last death at a Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust hospital was on June 1 - there have been 28 Covid-related deaths at their sites, with 306 Covid deaths at Worcestershire hospitals.
So the total Covid-19-related deaths registered in the county is now 528 since the pandemic began.
Of those 133 were of Bromsgrove residents, 74 in hospital, 54 in a care home, four elsewhere and one in a communal establishment.
Wyre Forest has had 115 Covid deaths of its residents with 65 in hospitals, 39 in care homes, nine at home and two in other communal settings.
There have been 110 deaths now of Wychavon residents: 49 in hospital, 48 in care homes, five at home, one elsewhere, two in hospices andfour in other communal settings.
Worcester has had 63 deaths: 29 in hospitals, 27 in care homes, four in a home, one in a hospice and two other communal.
Redditch has had 60 deaths related to the pandemic’s disease- there have been 49 hospital Covid deaths, eight in care homes, two at home, one other communal.
While Malvern Hills has had 47 Covid deaths – 24 in hospitals, 20 at a care home, two at home and one other communal.
Nationally the excess deaths figure – considered the true measure of the effects of the pandemic – was below the five-year-average for the seventh-week running.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Cadbury Club committee member "devastated" over huge fire

A committee member of The Cadbury Club has spoken of his `` sadness and devastation '' after a fire ravaged the historic building in Bournville .
Devastated Peter Lucas spoke to Birmingham Live as firefighters tackled a huge blaze which had engulfed the social club in Bournville Lane this evening ( Friday ) .
Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the inferno which is believed to have started in a small room by the bar .
Mr Lucas told BirminghamLive the social club had only just reopened last weekend following the coronavirus lockdown .
He said : `` It is just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are doing their best to try and save the original roof which is 100 years old but I am not sure it can be saved .
`` It is such a popular club .
We have more than 400 members here and they are going to be absolutely devastated .
`` We are not sure what caused the fire at the moment though we believe it started in a small room by the bar area .
`` The building is around 100 years old and has had extensions over the years .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am not sure if it can be saved .
It is so sad . ''
West Midlands Fire Service is currently warning people to avoid the local area as they tackle the blaze .
There are currently restrictions in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road .
Residents from nearby buildings are believed to have been evacuated for their own safety .
West Midlands Fire Service tweeted : `` Crews from @ KingsNortonFire @ Bournbrookfire @ Northfieldfire @ BillesleyFire @ HighgateFire @ Woodgatefire @ Smethwickfire @ Oldburyfire are currently dealing with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jets are in use .
Please avoid Bournville Lane , Mary Vale Round and the surrounding area . ''
A West Midlands Service spokeswoman said : `` Six appliances and a hydraulic platform are at the scene of the fire at the social club .
Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the blaze . ''
Witnesses have been taking to Twitter to express their shock at the fire .
David from Brum Baby Bank tweeted : `` The Cadbury Club is burning down !
you can see the smoke for a mile or two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as best they can . ''
Alana Tomlin tweeted : `` I live in this building here , we are evacuated and @ WestMidsFire doing amazing job .
Road closed Bournville Lane .
Hope no one hurt , doesn ’ t look like it so far . ''

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A committee member of The Cadbury Club has spoken of his "sadness and devastation" after a fire ravaged the historic building in Bournville.
Devastated Peter Lucas spoke to Birmingham Live as firefighters tackled a huge blaze which had engulfed the social club in Bournville Lane this evening (Friday).
Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the inferno which is believed to have started in a small room by the bar.
Mr Lucas told BirminghamLive the social club had only just reopened last weekend following the coronavirus lockdown.
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
He said: "It is just absolutely devastating - so sad. Firefighters are doing their best to try and save the original roof which is 100 years old but I am not sure it can be saved.
"It is such a popular club. We have more than 400 members here and they are going to be absolutely devastated.
"We are not sure what caused the fire at the moment though we believe it started in a small room by the bar area.
"The building is around 100 years old and has had extensions over the years. It really doesn't look good. I am not sure if it can be saved. It is so sad."
West Midlands Fire Service is currently warning people to avoid the local area as they tackle the blaze.
There are currently restrictions in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road.
Residents from nearby buildings are believed to have been evacuated for their own safety.
West Midlands Fire Service tweeted: "Crews from @KingsNortonFire @Bournbrookfire @Northfieldfire @BillesleyFire @HighgateFire @Woodgatefire @Smethwickfire @Oldburyfire are currently dealing with a severe fire in Bournville. 4 main jets are in use. Please avoid Bournville Lane, Mary Vale Round and the surrounding area."
A West Midlands Service spokeswoman said: "Six appliances and a hydraulic platform are at the scene of the fire at the social club. Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the blaze."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Witnesses have been taking to Twitter to express their shock at the fire.
David from Brum Baby Bank tweeted: "The Cadbury Club is burning down! you can see the smoke for a mile or two away. Firefighters on site containing it as best they can."
Alana Tomlin tweeted: "I live in this building here, we are evacuated and @WestMidsFire doing amazing job. Road closed Bournville Lane. Hope no one hurt, doesn’t look like it so far."


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Aston Villa transfer news live - Said Benrahma latest

Hello and welcome to Friday 's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you informed on all the key developments across today as Villa 's transfer window gathers pace and the new season draws closer .
We will be adding all the latest Villa news , views and rumours to our live blog throughout the day , with new signings and transfers continually linked to the club .
Brentford duo Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma are top targets for Villa following the Bees ' play-off final defeat to Fulham - so we will be keeping a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two , particularly with the situation seemingly developing on the latter .
There will be plenty on the likes of Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard and Bournemouth frontman Callum Wilson , too , and Werder Bremen midfielder Milot Rashica continues to share headlines with Villa .
There 's even some fallout from the Copenhagen fixture in the Europa League earlier this week given Johan Lange 's connections .
So stay with us for today 's blog , below , and be sure to check back for all the latest Villa transfer news and opinion @

Hello and welcome to LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive on Wednesday, September 9.
We will be keeping you informed on all the key developments across today as Villa's transfer window gathers pace and the new season draws closer.
We will be adding all the latest Villa news, views and rumours to our live blog throughout the day, with new signings and transfers continually linked to the club.
Matty Cash arrived from Nottingham Forest to become the club's first senior signing of the window and Brentford striker Ollie Watkins completed his £28m switch to Villa Park on Wednesday.
Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has also been touted for a move with Dean Smith keen to add cover given Tom Heaton's long lay-off.
So stay with us for today's transfer blog and be sure to check back for all the latest Villa transfer news and opinion.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--This is what is replacing Jamie's Italian in the Bullring

Former city centre restaurant Jamie ’ s Italian will be reopening its doors early next year - as a massive Chinese restaurant .
The huge Bullring venue , overlooking St Martin 's Church will open as Haidilao - a restaurant devoted to the Chinese Hot Pot cooking method - traditional hot pots of broth and raw ingredients brought to every table for diners .
Haidilao was founded in 1994 in China ’ s Sichuan Province which is famous for its Hot Pot cooking , also known as Chinese Fondue .
Haidilao has more than 750 restaurants around the world including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be its first outside the capital .
A spokesperson for Haidilao said : “ As the UK ’ s second city , and one with a large multi-cultural population , Birmingham is the ideal location for the first restaurant outside of London .
In our national expansion plans , the Bullring provides us with the high footfall , strong reputation and central position that we seek.
” The collapse of Jamie Oliver 's Italian restaurant empire in May 2019 led to the immediate closure of the 8,073 sq ft Bullring venue .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ into an illuminated winter wonderland .
'Once Upon A Time in Birmingham ' - the brainchild of immersive experience experts Bompas and Parr opened over the festive season - showcasing a 88,000 fairy lights installation measuring more than 9km in length .
The huge site has been empty since then .
Iain Mitchell , UK Commercial Director at Hammerson , said : “ Bullring and Grand Central remains one of the nation ’ s leading retail and leisure destinations , and the fact that a global brand like Haidilao has chosen the centre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really demonstrates that .
Restaurants and bars are having a really tough time at the moment , but today ’ s announcement shows that with the right brand in the right location , there is still scope for growth.
” Haidilo joins other Chinese Hot Pot restaurants Han Dynasty on Station Street , Hot 7 ( unit 2 Southside B5 ) Xiong Qi Hot Pot Essex Street and Genting Casino Hurst Street - located in Chinatown .

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
Former city centre restaurant Jamie’s Italian will be reopening its doors early next year - as a massive Chinese restaurant.
The huge Bullring venue, overlooking St Martin's Church will open as Haidilao - a restaurant devoted to the Chinese Hot Pot cooking method - traditional hot pots of broth and raw ingredients brought to every table for diners.
Haidilao was founded in 1994 in China’s Sichuan Province which is famous for its Hot Pot cooking, also known as Chinese Fondue.
(Image: WWW.WANGCHANGLONG.CO)
Haidilao has more than 750 restaurants around the world including two in London.
Its Birmingham site will be its first outside the capital.
A spokesperson for Haidilao said: “As the UK’s second city, and one with a large multi-cultural population, Birmingham is the ideal location for the first restaurant outside of London. In our national expansion plans, the Bullring provides us with the high footfall, strong reputation and central position that we seek.”
The collapse of Jamie Oliver's Italian restaurant empire in May 2019 led to the immediate closure of the 8,073 sq ft Bullring venue.
In November the building was briefly transformed into an illuminated winter wonderland.
'Once Upon A Time in Birmingham' - the brainchild of immersive experience experts Bompas and Parr opened over the festive season - showcasing a 88,000 fairy lights installation measuring more than 9km in length.
The huge site has been empty since then.
Iain Mitchell, UK Commercial Director at Hammerson, said: “Bullring and Grand Central remains one of the nation’s leading retail and leisure destinations, and the fact that a global brand like Haidilao has chosen the centre for its first restaurant outside of London really demonstrates that. Restaurants and bars are having a really tough time at the moment, but today’s announcement shows that with the right brand in the right location, there is still scope for growth.”
Haidilao joins other Chinese Hot Pot restaurants Han Dynasty on Station Street, Hot 7 (unit 2 Southside B5) Xiong Qi Hot Pot Essex Street and Genting Casino Hurst Street - all located in Chinatown.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Birmingham City 'close in' on free transfer for George Friend

Birmingham City are closing in on the signing of Middlesbrough defender George Friend , according to reports .
Friend , 32 , has made almost 300 appearances for Boro since arriving at the Riverside from Doncaster Rovers in 2012 .
Capable of playing at left-back or centre-back , he was a key member of the Boro side that won promotion to the Premier League under Blues head coach Aitor Karanka in 2016 .
Karanka is keen to put his own mark on the squad he has inherited and confirmed at his unveiling on Friday he has already set out a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been offered a new contract to extend his eight-year stay at Boro having played every minute of the final nine games of the season following the Championship restart in June .
But Football Insider report the former Wolverhampton Wanderers player is set to reject that offer in favour of reuniting with Karanka at St Andrew 's .
Blues have Kristian Pedersen and Steve Seddon to choose from at left-back but there could be interest in the former during the transfer window while the latter is wanted by Portsmouth after impressing on loan at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an option in the middle of defence , where Harlee Dean and Marc Roberts are short on competition now Jake Clarke-Salter has returned to Chelsea .

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Birmingham City are closing in on the signing of Middlesbrough defender George Friend, according to reports.
Friend, 32, has made almost 300 appearances for Boro since arriving at the Riverside from Doncaster Rovers in 2012.
Capable of playing at left-back or centre-back, he was a key member of the Boro side that won promotion to the Premier League under Blues head coach Aitor Karanka in 2016.
Karanka is keen to put his own mark on the squad he has inherited and confirmed at his unveiling on Friday he has already set out a criteria for new signings.
Friend has been offered a new contract to extend his eight-year stay at Boro having played every minute of the final nine games of the season following the Championship restart in June.
But Football Insider report the former Wolverhampton Wanderers player is set to reject that offer in favour of reuniting with Karanka at St Andrew's.
Blues have Kristian Pedersen and Steve Seddon to choose from at left-back but there could be interest in the former during the transfer window while the latter is wanted by Portsmouth after impressing on loan at Fratton Park.
Friend could also provide an option in the middle of defence, where Harlee Dean and Marc Roberts are short on competition now Jake Clarke-Salter has returned to Chelsea.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Covid cases nearly double in Birmingham as people 'flout rules'

The number of people infected with coronavirus has spiked across Birmingham , nearly doubling , amid fears people are failing to follow basic rules while out and about at work and play .
New cases are now being reviewed daily as public health chiefs battle to keep the virus at bay and prevent a major outbreak .
The number of new cases reported in Birmingham over the most recent seven days , according to NHS Digital data published yesterday , was more than 24 per 100,000 people - the equivalent of around 250 a week .
The rate was 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ means Birmingham is on the verge of following neighbouring Sandwell onto the national watch list , though still way off the levels seen in the worst affected parts of the country , where the rate has topped 100 .
Clive Wright , regional convenor for the Department of Health , said it was a concerning situation .
`` In Birmingham the rate of infection has steadily risen and we are now concerned about this and reviewing it daily , '' he revealed this afternoon .
He said some transmission was linked to recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border each other , with lots of crossover for work , family and leisure - `` but that does n't explain all the cases we are seeing across the city . ''
`` It looks like a combination of people socialising and not maintaining social distance , in the hospitality sector and in informal gatherings , and this may be the underlying problem .
`` The city council is working hard with communities to urge everyone to protect each other . ''
He cited data produced by Public Health England , which was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that showed Birmingham 's infection rate had gone up from 12 to 17.1 .
However , he conceded that more up to date statistics produced by NHS Digital and published this morning showed the rate has gone up further since then , but said that was subject to daily fluctuations .
He said it was likely that Birmingham 's infection rate would 'settle ' at more than 20 by the end of this week - hence it being a cause for significant concern .
He said during the height of the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the trend has now changed .
`` We have seen the median age of cases drop in the West Midlands to those of working age - the average age is now 36 years . ''
Outbreaks were being seen in workplaces , shops and households , he said .
He added that while workplaces might themselves be stringent about their responsibilities , people were `` forgetting or ignoring the advice to stay alert '' when they left work .
People were also continuing to flout rules on gatherings at barbecues , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as in pubs and function rooms .
West Midlands deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Waheed Saleem said police had to break up 125 illegal raves and gatherings across the region at the weekend , while they had received more than 3,000 calls from members of the public .
He added : `` We want to make it clear that we will not tolerate these gatherings , they are illegal and pose a significant risk to those present and their families .
`` They also provide cover for criminal gangs to sell drugs ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acts of violence .
`` We are working with partners to bring post event criminal action .
I would urge people to report these issues to us .
`` After lobbying from myself and the Chief Constable , we are pleased the Government has announced tougher penalties and we want these powers implemented quickly to deter those who continue to flout the law . ''
City council leader Cllr Ian Ward added : `` People should not gather in these large numbers that are contributing to these outbreaks . ''
Get all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newsletter Politics plays a huge part in all our lives , much more than we immediately realise .
News and updates on the world of politics seemed to become much more important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic as we waited for news of the Government 's responses to the crisis and how it affected our daily lives .
You can get all the latest politics updates in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article .
There are all the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ laws , decisions on the economy that affect businesses and our personal finances , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of course local and national elections that decide who represents us .
There 's also all the news from Birmingham City Council and other Midlands authorities on housing , education , bin collections , roads , transport , public health and so much more .
And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store He added : `` We are also looking very closely at the situation with households socialising in larger bubbles than they should be . ''
The rise in cases in the city and continuing issues in neighbouring Sandwell comes as local public health chiefs begin to get the control over testing , tracing and preventing outbreaks that they have lobbied for over the past three months .
Said Mr Wright : `` This is welcome news , with national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local government .
Local councils know their communities and have created trusting relationships that are essential to making the system work .
`` Sandwell and Staffordshire have already piloted local approaches to testing and contact tracing and the results have been outstanding . ''
He added that all local council areas are now tracing 'more than 50 % ' of contacts , while in Sandwell that rises to more than 80 % .
Critics say that is still nowhere near good enough and shows that the Government was wrong to outsource the national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company rather than bolster regional and local teams instead .
Earlier this week NHS test and trace announced it was cutting 6,000 contact tracer jobs and allocating roles to regional teams to work with councils .
Council leaders today urged people and businesses across the West Midlands to keep following advice to reduce the threat of further lockdowns , insisting : `` We ca n't afford to drop our guard now . ''
The leaders of Birmingham , Coventry , Sandwell , Solihull , Dudley , Walsall and Wolverhampton councils met to discuss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for continued vigilance to reduce the risks of a further significant spike .
In particular , they urged businesses to contact Public Health England as soon as a case is identified – either confirmed or suspected – in a staff or customer .
And , looking ahead to next month when thousands of university students will be returning to study across the region , the seven council leaders said that social distancing will be key to preventing campus outbreaks .
They also stressed the importance of continuing to follow national guidance regarding social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case that you should not : • socialise indoors in groups of more than two households ( anyone in your support bubble counts as one household ) – this includes when dining out or going to the pub • socialise outdoors in a group of more than six people from different households ; gatherings larger than six should only take place if everyone is from exclusively from two households or support bubbles • interact socially with anyone outside the group you are attending a place with , even if you see other people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a restaurant , community centre or place of worship • hold or attend celebrations ( such as parties ) where it is difficult to maintain social distancing and avoid close social interaction – even if they are organised by businesses and venues that are taking steps to follow COVID-19 guidelines • stay overnight away from your home with members of more than one other household ( your support bubble counts as one household ) • It is against the law for gatherings of more than 30 people to take place in private homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Businesses and venues following COVID-19 Secure guidelines can host larger groups provided they comply with the law • If attending a place or event that is following COVID-19 Secure guidelines , you should take care to limit your interactions with anyone outside of your group and you should continue to maintain social distancing from those that you do not live with .
Birmingham City Council leader Cllr Ward added : `` We all know how tough the last few months have been and everyone has sacrificed so much .
But people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midlands still have a huge part to play if we 're going to avoid a further lockdown and we ca n't afford to drop our guard now .
`` We all want to keep our loved ones , our friends , neighbours and colleagues safe , so we must all continue to play our part .
This really is about saving lives and that 's why it 's so important to keep social distancing , to wash hands frequently , wear face coverings in enclosed spaces and at the first sign of Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all follow these simple routines we stand a chance of controlling the virus in the West Midlands .
”

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The number of people infected with coronavirus has spiked across Birmingham, nearly doubling, amid fears people are failing to follow basic rules while out and about at work and play.
New cases are now being reviewed daily as public health chiefs battle to keep the virus at bay and prevent a major outbreak.
The number of new cases reported in Birmingham over the most recent seven days, according to NHS Digital data published yesterday, was more than 24 per 100,000 people - the equivalent of around 250 a week. The rate was 12 at the start of August.
It means Birmingham is on the verge of following neighbouring Sandwell onto the national watch list, though still way off the levels seen in the worst affected parts of the country, where the rate has topped 100.
Clive Wright, regional convenor for the Department of Health, said it was a concerning situation.
"In Birmingham the rate of infection has steadily risen and we are now concerned about this and reviewing it daily," he revealed this afternoon.
He said some transmission was linked to recent outbreaks in Sandwell - the two areas border each other, with lots of crossover for work, family and leisure - "but that doesn't explain all the cases we are seeing across the city."
"It looks like a combination of people socialising and not maintaining social distance, in the hospitality sector and in informal gatherings, and this may be the underlying problem.
"The city council is working hard with communities to urge everyone to protect each other."
He cited data produced by Public Health England, which was for the week up to August 7, that showed Birmingham's infection rate had gone up from 12 to 17.1.
However, he conceded that more up to date statistics produced by NHS Digital and published this morning showed the rate has gone up further since then, but said that was subject to daily fluctuations.
He said it was likely that Birmingham's infection rate would 'settle' at more than 20 by the end of this week - hence it being a cause for significant concern.
He said during the height of the pandemic those testing positive tended to be older, but the trend has now changed.
"We have seen the median age of cases drop in the West Midlands to those of working age - the average age is now 36 years."
Outbreaks were being seen in workplaces, shops and households, he said.
He added that while workplaces might themselves be stringent about their responsibilities, people were "forgetting or ignoring the advice to stay alert" when they left work.
People were also continuing to flout rules on gatherings at barbecues, in households and gardens, as well as in pubs and function rooms.
West Midlands deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Waheed Saleem said police had to break up 125 illegal raves and gatherings across the region at the weekend, while they had received more than 3,000 calls from members of the public.
He added: "We want to make it clear that we will not tolerate these gatherings, they are illegal and pose a significant risk to those present and their families.
"They also provide cover for criminal gangs to sell drugs...as well as anti social behaviour and acts of violence.
"We are working with partners to bring post event criminal action. I would urge people to report these issues to us.
"After lobbying from myself and the Chief Constable, we are pleased the Government has announced tougher penalties and we want these powers implemented quickly to deter those who continue to flout the law."
City council leader Cllr Ian Ward added: "People should not gather in these large numbers that are contributing to these outbreaks."
He added: "We are also looking very closely at the situation with households socialising in larger bubbles than they should be."
The rise in cases in the city and continuing issues in neighbouring Sandwell comes as local public health chiefs begin to get the control over testing, tracing and preventing outbreaks that they have lobbied for over the past three months.
Said Mr Wright: "This is welcome news, with national government listening to and working well with local government. Local councils know their communities and have created trusting relationships that are essential to making the system work.
"Sandwell and Staffordshire have already piloted local approaches to testing and contact tracing and the results have been outstanding."
He added that all local council areas are now tracing 'more than 50%' of contacts, while in Sandwell that rises to more than 80%.
Critics say that is still nowhere near good enough and shows that the Government was wrong to outsource the national test and trace project to a private company rather than bolster regional and local teams instead.
Earlier this week NHS test and trace announced it was cutting 6,000 contact tracer jobs and allocating roles to regional teams to work with councils.
(Image: Getty Images)
Council leaders today urged people and businesses across the West Midlands to keep following advice to reduce the threat of further lockdowns, insisting: "We can't afford to drop our guard now."
The leaders of Birmingham, Coventry, Sandwell, Solihull, Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhampton councils met to discuss the regional picture and stressed the need for continued vigilance to reduce the risks of a further significant spike.
In particular, they urged businesses to contact Public Health England as soon as a case is identified – either confirmed or suspected – in a staff or customer.
And, looking ahead to next month when thousands of university students will be returning to study across the region, the seven council leaders said that social distancing will be key to preventing campus outbreaks.
They also stressed the importance of continuing to follow national guidance regarding social contact and events.
It remains the case that you should not:
socialise indoors in groups of more than two households (anyone in your support bubble counts as one household) – this includes when dining out or going to the pub
socialise outdoors in a group of more than six people from different households; gatherings larger than six should only take place if everyone is from exclusively from two households or support bubbles
interact socially with anyone outside the group you are attending a place with, even if you see other people you know, for example, in a restaurant, community centre or place of worship
hold or attend celebrations (such as parties) where it is difficult to maintain social distancing and avoid close social interaction – even if they are organised by businesses and venues that are taking steps to follow COVID-19 guidelines
stay overnight away from your home with members of more than one other household (your support bubble counts as one household)
It is against the law for gatherings of more than 30 people to take place in private homes (including gardens and other outdoor spaces). Businesses and venues following COVID-19 Secure guidelines can host larger groups provided they comply with the law
If attending a place or event that is following COVID-19 Secure guidelines, you should take care to limit your interactions with anyone outside of your group and you should continue to maintain social distancing from those that you do not live with.
(Image: PA)
Birmingham City Council leader Cllr Ward added: "We all know how tough the last few months have been and everyone has sacrificed so much. But people right across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands still have a huge part to play if we're going to avoid a further lockdown and we can't afford to drop our guard now.
"We all want to keep our loved ones, our friends, neighbours and colleagues safe, so we must all continue to play our part. This really is about saving lives and that's why it's so important to keep social distancing, to wash hands frequently, wear face coverings in enclosed spaces and at the first sign of Covid-19 get a test.
"If we all follow these simple routines we stand a chance of controlling the virus in the West Midlands.”


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Medical centre, post office and shop evacuated after flooding

A medical centre , shop and post office have been evacuated in a Worcestershire town after being flooded following a burst water main .
The incident took place at The Church Hill Centre at the corner of Tanhouse Lane and Church Hill Way in Redditch shortly after 2pm on Friday ( August 14 ) The fire service , together with engineers from Severn Trent , attended the incident , which led to the Maple View Medical Practice , Church Hill Post Office , McColl 's and a pharmacy at the centre being evacuated and cordoned off .
“ The McColl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been cordoned off with white and red fire service tape .
“ The tarmac has been left damaged and there 's a large puddle of water outside the shop entrance.
” A fire crew attended the incident .
The fire service said ‘ a number of properties have been flooded due to a burst water main ’ .
A spokeswoman for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said : “ We were called at 2.13pm to flooding in Tanhouse Lane , Redditch following a burst water main .
This affected the post @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and pharmacy .
“ We have managed to take steps to divert the water .
Properties have been evacuated and electrics to the properties have been isolated .
“ We worked with Severn Trent to get water back to the properties.
” A spokesman for Severn Trent said : “ We ’ re really sorry to customers who ’ ve been affected by a burst pipe on Tanhouse Lane in Redditch this afternoon .
`` We had engineers on-site straight away , working hard to reduce the flow of water from the pipe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone is back on supply and our focus now is to repair the pipe and return the road back to normal as soon as we can .
“ We ’ re aware the burst has caused some flooding in the area and we ’ re doing everything we can to support those affected customers .
Again , we ’ re extremely sorry for the considerable distress this will have caused .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Stephanie Balloo, Nick Horner)

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A medical centre, shop and post office have been evacuated in a Worcestershire town after being flooded following a burst water main.
The incident took place at The Church Hill Centre at the corner of Tanhouse Lane and Church Hill Way in Redditch shortly after 2pm on Friday (August 14)
The fire service, together with engineers from Severn Trent, attended the incident, which led to the Maple View Medical Practice, Church Hill Post Office, McColl's and a pharmacy at the centre being evacuated and cordoned off.
An eyewitness told Worcestershire Live: "They've had a burst water main.
“The McColl's shop at Church Hill centre has been cordoned off with white and red fire service tape.
“The tarmac has been left damaged and there's a large puddle of water outside the shop entrance.”
A fire crew attended the incident. The fire service said ‘a number of properties have been flooded due to a burst water main’.
A spokeswoman for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called at 2.13pm to flooding in Tanhouse Lane, Redditch following a burst water main. This affected the post office, a shop, medical centre and pharmacy.
“We have managed to take steps to divert the water. Properties have been evacuated and electrics to the properties have been isolated.
“We worked with Severn Trent to get water back to the properties.”
A spokesman for Severn Trent said: “We’re really sorry to customers who’ve been affected by a burst pipe on Tanhouse Lane in Redditch this afternoon.
"We had engineers on-site straight away, working hard to reduce the flow of water from the pipe. We’re pleased to say everyone is back on supply and our focus now is to repair the pipe and return the road back to normal as soon as we can.
“We’re aware the burst has caused some flooding in the area and we’re doing everything we can to support those affected customers. Again, we’re extremely sorry for the considerable distress this will have caused.”


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Drugs in ‘Kinder Surprise’ capsules found in cops stop and search

Suspected Class A drugs , cash and phones were seized in a Worcestershire town after a ‘ routine stop and search ’ carried out by plainclothes officers .
Three officers from Wyre Forest Police were out in Kidderminster on Thursday ( August 13 ) and stopped a man in a ‘ routine ’ search in Horse Fair in the town centre at 4.45pm .
They discovered almost 40 wraps of what was believed to be heroin and cocaine stuffed in ‘ Kinder Surprise ’ -style capsules .
In addition they found a bundle of cash and mobile phones .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a successful stop search officers from our team have arrested a male and seized over 40 wraps of suspected heroin and crack cocaine !
“ A substantial amount of drugs taken off the streets of Kidderminster .
Phones and money were also seized and will undergo examination !
” Inspector David King from the Wyre Forest team tweeted : “ Loved getting an email and call this morning from three members of my team conducting plain clothes in Kidderminster last night .
Good work fellas !
Very proud of you.
” And after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s social media one member of the public said : “ Now that ’ s why You call a kinder surprise !
” While another said : “ This is embarrassing but I have found those little white wraps around when litter picking .
I thought they were unexploded bangers the kids have .
Thank you for the education.
” And a third said : “ Well done , we know you work hard getting this evil stuff from off the streets ... just a shame someone else will be ready to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Mercia Police said : “ Following a routine stop and search on the Horse Fair , Kidderminster on Thursday at 4.45pm , a 36-year-old man from Stourport-on-Severn has been arrested on suspicion of possession with intention to supply class A drugs , having been found with 39 wraps of class A .
“ He has been released pending further investigation .
”

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Suspected Class A drugs, cash and phones were seized in a Worcestershire town after a ‘routine stop and search’ carried out by plainclothes officers.
Three officers from Wyre Forest Police were out in Kidderminster on Thursday (August 13) and stopped a man in a ‘routine’ search in Horse Fair in the town centre at 4.45pm.
They discovered almost 40 wraps of what was believed to be heroin and cocaine stuffed in ‘Kinder Surprise’-style capsules.
In addition they found a bundle of cash and mobile phones.
The Kidderminster police team tweeted: “Following a successful stop search officers from our team have arrested a male and seized over 40 wraps of suspected heroin and crack cocaine!
“A substantial amount of drugs taken off the streets of Kidderminster. Phones and money were also seized and will undergo examination!”
Inspector David King from the Wyre Forest team tweeted: “Loved getting an email and call this morning from three members of my team conducting plain clothes in Kidderminster last night. Good work fellas! Very proud of you.”
And after putting the find on Wyre Forest Police’s social media one member of the public said: “Now that’s why You call a kinder surprise!”
While another said: “This is embarrassing but I have found those little white wraps around when litter picking. I thought they were unexploded bangers the kids have. Thank you for the education.”
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And a third said: “Well done, we know you work hard getting this evil stuff from off the streets... just a shame someone else will be ready to supply the addicts.”
A spokeswoman for West Mercia Police said: “Following a routine stop and search on the Horse Fair, Kidderminster on Thursday at 4.45pm, a 36-year-old man from Stourport-on-Severn has been arrested on suspicion of possession with intention to supply class A drugs, having been found with 39 wraps of class A.
“He has been released pending further investigation.”


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Cash appeal to help dog walker struck in horror hit-and-run smash

A fundraising page set up to raise money for a woman who was seriously hurt in a horrific hit-and-run crash in Great Barr has raised more than £1,000 .
Dozens of donations from friends and neighbours have poured in to help the victim , who has been named as 'Pat ' , following the smash in Doe Bank Lane on July 22 .
Fundraiser 's owner , Andi Baker , told BlackCountryLive that the woman was walking her Staffie , Millie , at the side of the road when the black Renault Clio swerved and ploughed into them .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the air and the force of the impact was so hard that she left a impressions of her head on the window ' .
She has also suffered a gash the length of her calf and a broken leg .
Mrs Baker hopes the appeal can raise funds to create a memorial for her beloved dog and to allow the family to go on holiday before the physiotherapy .
A 17-year-old boy who was arrested has since been released under investigation , police said .
The teenager was held on suspicion of causing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midlands Police said they had a `` phenomenal response '' to their plea for information after footage of the collision was `` shared thousands of times . ''
Police are asking if anyone was in the area at the time and if they saw two cars driving prior to the collision .
Officers said the cars came from the direction of the Queslett Road and are keen to hear from any witnesses as well as anyone who might have dash cam or cycle cam footage .
If you have any information , police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing and tell them what you know .
They can be contacted via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or by calling 101 anytime .
To remain 100 percent anonymous , call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .
Tell them what you know , not who you are .
Please quote log 3677 of 22 July .

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A fundraising page set up to raise money for a woman who was seriously hurt in a horrific hit-and-run crash in Great Barr has raised more than £1,000.
Dozens of donations from friends and neighbours have poured in to help the victim, who has been named as 'Pat', following the smash in Doe Bank Lane on July 22.
Fundraiser's owner, Andi Baker, told BlackCountryLive that the woman was walking her Staffie, Millie, at the side of the road when the black Renault Clio swerved and ploughed into them.
The 53-year-old said Pat was 'thrown 20ft in the air and the force of the impact was so hard that she left a impressions of her head on the window'.
She has also suffered a gash the length of her calf and a broken leg.
Mrs Baker hopes the appeal can raise funds to create a memorial for her beloved dog and to allow the family to go on holiday before the physiotherapy.
A 17-year-old boy who was arrested has since been released under investigation, police said.
The teenager was held on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
West Midlands Police said they had a "phenomenal response" to their plea for information after footage of the collision was "shared thousands of times."
Police are asking if anyone was in the area at the time and if they saw two cars driving prior to the collision.
Officers said the cars came from the direction of the Queslett Road and are keen to hear from any witnesses as well as anyone who might have dash cam or cycle cam footage.
If you have any information, police urge the public to do the right thing and tell them what you know. They can be contacted via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk 8am - midnight or by calling 101 anytime.
To remain 100 percent anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are. Please quote log 3677 of 22 July.


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Two women hit by car at bus stop as road closed in both directions

The busy Pershore Road was due to be closed for hours tonight after two women were hit by a car at a bus stop in Selly Park .
The incident took place on the busy Pershore Road on Friday afternoon ( August 14 ) close to the BP garage shortly after 1pm .
One woman was treated for potentially serious injuries at the scene and one was treated for minor injuries .
They were both then taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further treatment .
The driver of the car , a male , was uninjured in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged motorists to avoid the area .
They tweeted : `` We 're currently dealing with a serious collision on the Pershore Road , Birmingham .
The road is closed in both directions between Selly Wick Road and Kensington Road .
It 's expected to be closed for several hours .
Please avoid the area . ''
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Fire Service said a car hit a bus stop , injuring two pedestrians .
She said : `` We went to an RTC- It was a car in collision with two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They have been taken to hospital.
” A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called at 1.09pm to reports of a collision between a car and pedestrians on Pedworth Close .
`` Three ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene .
`` On arrival we discovered three patients , two pedestrians and the driver of the car .
`` The pedestrians were both women .
`` One was treated for potentially serious injuries and one was treated for minor injuries before they were both taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further assessment .
`` The driver of the car , a male , was uninjured in the collision .
”

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The busy Pershore Road was due to be closed for hours tonight after two women were hit by a car at a bus stop in Selly Park.
The incident took place on the busy Pershore Road on Friday afternoon (August 14) close to the BP garage shortly after 1pm.
One woman was treated for potentially serious injuries at the scene and one was treated for minor injuries. They were both then taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further treatment.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
The driver of the car, a male, was uninjured in the collision.
West Midlands Police this afternoon urged motorists to avoid the area.
They tweeted: "We're currently dealing with a serious collision on the Pershore Road, Birmingham. The road is closed in both directions between Selly Wick Road and Kensington Road. It's expected to be closed for several hours. Please avoid the area."
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Fire Service said a car hit a bus stop, injuring two pedestrians.
She said: "We went to an RTC- It was a car in collision with two pedestrians at a bus stop.
"They have been taken to hospital.”
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 1.09pm to reports of a collision between a car and pedestrians on Pedworth Close.
"Three ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene.
"On arrival we discovered three patients, two pedestrians and the driver of the car.
"The pedestrians were both women.
"One was treated for potentially serious injuries and one was treated for minor injuries before they were both taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham for further assessment.
"The driver of the car, a male, was uninjured in the collision.”


birminghammail--2020-08-14--Fifty firefighters tackle huge blaze at historic Cadbury Club

Fifty firefighters are currently tackling a huge fire at the Cadbury Club in Bournville .
Six fire engines and a hydraulic platform have been sent to the scene of the fire in Bournville Lane .
Video from the scene shows huge flames and smoke billowing from the scene .
West Midlands Fire Service is currently warning people to avoid the local area as they tackle the blaze .
There are currently restrictions in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road .
Residents from nearby buildings are believed to have been evacuated for their own safety .
West Midlands Fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ KingsNortonFire @ Bournbrookfire @ Northfieldfire @ BillesleyFire @ HighgateFire @ Woodgatefire @ Smethwickfire @ Oldburyfire are currently dealing with a severe fire in Bournville .
4 main jets are in use .
Please avoid Bournville Lane , Mary Vale Round and the surrounding area . ''
A West Midlands Service spokeswoman said : `` Six appliances and a hydraulic platform are at the scene of the fire at the social club .
Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the blaze . ''
It is unclear at this stage how the fire started .
Witnesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their shock at the fire .
David from Brum Baby Bank tweeted : `` The Cadbury Club is burning down !
you can see the smoke for a mile or two away .
Firefighters on site containing it as best they can . ''
Alana Tomlin tweeted : `` I live in this building here , we are evacuated and @ WestMidsFire doing amazing job .
Road closed Bournville Lane .
Hope no one hurt , doesn ’ t look like it so far . ''

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Fifty firefighters are currently tackling a huge fire at the Cadbury Club in Bournville.
Six fire engines and a hydraulic platform have been sent to the scene of the fire in Bournville Lane.
Video from the scene shows huge flames and smoke billowing from the scene.
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
West Midlands Fire Service is currently warning people to avoid the local area as they tackle the blaze.
There are currently restrictions in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road.
Residents from nearby buildings are believed to have been evacuated for their own safety.
(Image: NICK WILKINSON/BIRMINGHAM LIVE)
West Midlands Fire Service tweeted: "Crews from @KingsNortonFire @Bournbrookfire @Northfieldfire @BillesleyFire @HighgateFire @Woodgatefire @Smethwickfire @Oldburyfire are currently dealing with a severe fire in Bournville. 4 main jets are in use. Please avoid Bournville Lane, Mary Vale Round and the surrounding area."
A West Midlands Service spokeswoman said: "Six appliances and a hydraulic platform are at the scene of the fire at the social club. Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the blaze."
It is unclear at this stage how the fire started.
Witnesses have been taking to Twitter to express their shock at the fire.
David from Brum Baby Bank tweeted: "The Cadbury Club is burning down! you can see the smoke for a mile or two away. Firefighters on site containing it as best they can."
Alana Tomlin tweeted: "I live in this building here, we are evacuated and @WestMidsFire doing amazing job. Road closed Bournville Lane. Hope no one hurt, doesn’t look like it so far."