birminghammail--2020-04-03--How A level and GCSE students will get their grades confirmed

The exam watchdog has written to all students due to take A levels and GCSES after this year ’ s exam season was cancelled due to coronavirus .
Ofqual sets out details for schools , colleges , students , parents & carers on how GCSEs and A levels will be awarded following the cancellation of this year 's exams .
Sally Collier , Chief Regulator , Ofqual , said : `` School or college based assessment already has an important role in many GCSEs , AS and A levels and in extraordinary circumstances such as these , schools and colleges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performance of their students at the end of the course . ''
She added : `` We have worked closely with the teaching profession to ensure that what we are asking is both appropriate and manageable , so that everyone can have confidence in the approach .
I would like to take this opportunity to thank teachers and school leaders for making this process work for students during these very challenging times .
`` We have published a message to students to reassure them that we , and exam boards , will do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as far as possible , grades are fair and that they are not disadvantaged in their progress to sixth form , college , university , apprenticeships , training or work because of these unprecedented conditions . ''
Exam boards will be contacting schools , colleges and other exam centres after Easter asking them to submit , by a deadline that will be no earlier than 29 May 2020 , the following : • a centre assessment grade for every student in each of their subjects : that is , the grade they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they had sat their exams and completed any non-exam assessment .
Judgements should balance different sources of evidence such as : • any participation in performances in subjects such as music , drama or PE • any non-exam assessment – whether or not complete • the results of any assignments or mock exams • previous examination results – for example , for any re-sitting students or those with relevant AS qualifications • any other records of student performance over the course of study • the rank order of students within each grade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for all those students with a centre assessment grade of 5 in GCSE maths , a rank order where 1 is the most secure/highest attaining student , and so on .
This information will be used in the statistical standardisation of centres ’ judgements – allowing fine tuning of the standard applied across all schools and colleges • a declaration from the Head of Centre making the submission Ofqual says : `` We know many private candidates ( students who have been home-schooled , following distance-learning programmes or studying independently ) are anxious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ applied to them .
`` Heads of centre have been asked to provide centre assessment grades for private candidates registered to take exams with their centre and include them in the rank order where they are confident that they and their staff have seen sufficient evidence of the student ’ s achievement to make an objective judgement .
`` We are urgently exploring whether there are alternative options for students who need results this summer to progress and for whom a centre assessment grade is not possible .
It may , unfortunately , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the autumn or next summer to get their grades .
We appreciate that this is a matter of real concern to private candidates and will provide an update as soon as possible .
We have asked organisations that represent universities and FE colleges to consider private candidates when making admissions decisions this summer .
They have told us that they believe that institutions will consider a range of other evidence and information for these students to allow them to progress wherever possible . ''
How will grade boundaries be decided ?
Ofqual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grades are as fair as possible across schools and colleges , exam boards will put all centre assessment grades through a process of standardisation using a model being developed with Ofqual . ''
Ofqual says : `` We will consult on the principles of our model shortly , but we expect it will look at evidence such as the expected national outcomes for this year ’ s students , the prior attainment of students at each school and college ( at cohort , not individual level ) , and the results of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It will not change the rank order of students within each centre ; nor will it assume that the distribution of grades in each subject or centre should be the same .
The process will also recognise the past performance of schools and colleges .
However , if grading judgements in some schools and colleges appear to be more severe or generous than others , exam boards will adjust the grades of some or all of those students upwards or downwards accordingly . ''
Can I find out my grades ?
Ofqual says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told that they must not share their centre assessment grades with students , parents or carers , under any circumstances , until after final results are issued .
This is to protect the integrity of centres ’ judgements , and to avoid anyone feeling under pressure to submit a grade that is not supported by the evidence .
Since the final grades for some or all students in a centre could be different from those submitted , it also helps to manage students ’ expectations . ''
When are results out ?
Ofqual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard to get results out as soon as is possible – results won ’ t be delayed after the dates they were expected in August and ideally will be released a little earlier , so students can have the certainty they need .
`` We are all focused on making sure students are not disadvantaged by these unprecedented circumstances , including allowing for an appeal where appropriate .
We will consult on proposals for specific appeal arrangements soon . ''
Ofqual says : `` Students will also have the opportunity to sit exams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new academic year - we are working across the sector to plan for how and when these additional exams will take place .
Many students will be taking other general and vocational or technical qualifications instead of or alongside GCSEs , AS and A levels .
While this process does not apply to those qualifications , the same aims apply .
We are working as quickly as possible to develop an approach and we will provide further information as soon as we can . ''

The exam watchdog has written to all students due to take A levels and GCSES after this year’s exam season was cancelled due to coronavirus.
Ofqual sets out details for schools, colleges, students, parents & carers on how GCSEs and A levels will be awarded following the cancellation of this year's exams.
Sally Collier, Chief Regulator, Ofqual, said: "School or college based assessment already has an important role in many GCSEs, AS and A levels and in extraordinary circumstances such as these, schools and colleges are best placed to judge the likely performance of their students at the end of the course."
She added: "We have worked closely with the teaching profession to ensure that what we are asking is both appropriate and manageable, so that everyone can have confidence in the approach. I would like to take this opportunity to thank teachers and school leaders for making this process work for students during these very challenging times.
"We have published a message to students to reassure them that we, and exam boards, will do everything we can to make sure that, as far as possible, grades are fair and that they are not disadvantaged in their progress to sixth form, college, university, apprenticeships, training or work because of these unprecedented conditions."
Exam boards will be contacting schools, colleges and other exam centres after Easter asking them to submit, by a deadline that will be no earlier than 29 May 2020, the following:
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a centre assessment grade for every student in each of their subjects: that is, the grade they would be most likely to have achieved if they had sat their exams and completed any non-exam assessment. Judgements should balance different sources of evidence such as: classwork bookwork any participation in performances in subjects such as music, drama or PE any non-exam assessment – whether or not complete the results of any assignments or mock exams previous examination results – for example, for any re-sitting students or those with relevant AS qualifications any other records of student performance over the course of study
the rank order of students within each grade for each subject – for example, for all those students with a centre assessment grade of 5 in GCSE maths, a rank order where 1 is the most secure/highest attaining student, and so on. This information will be used in the statistical standardisation of centres’ judgements – allowing fine tuning of the standard applied across all schools and colleges
a declaration from the Head of Centre making the submission
What about private candidates?
Ofqual says: "We know many private candidates (students who have been home-schooled, following distance-learning programmes or studying independently) are anxious to know how these arrangements might be applied to them.
"Heads of centre have been asked to provide centre assessment grades for private candidates registered to take exams with their centre and include them in the rank order where they are confident that they and their staff have seen sufficient evidence of the student’s achievement to make an objective judgement.
"We are urgently exploring whether there are alternative options for students who need results this summer to progress and for whom a centre assessment grade is not possible. It may, unfortunately, be necessary for some to take exams in the autumn or next summer to get their grades. We appreciate that this is a matter of real concern to private candidates and will provide an update as soon as possible. We have asked organisations that represent universities and FE colleges to consider private candidates when making admissions decisions this summer. They have told us that they believe that institutions will consider a range of other evidence and information for these students to allow them to progress wherever possible."
How will grade boundaries be decided?
Ofqual says: "To make sure that grades are as fair as possible across schools and colleges, exam boards will put all centre assessment grades through a process of standardisation using a model being developed with Ofqual."
Ofqual says: "We will consult on the principles of our model shortly, but we expect it will look at evidence such as the expected national outcomes for this year’s students, the prior attainment of students at each school and college (at cohort, not individual level), and the results of the school or college in recent years. It will not change the rank order of students within each centre; nor will it assume that the distribution of grades in each subject or centre should be the same. The process will also recognise the past performance of schools and colleges. However, if grading judgements in some schools and colleges appear to be more severe or generous than others, exam boards will adjust the grades of some or all of those students upwards or downwards accordingly."
(Image: Dominic Lipinski / PA Wire)
Can I find out my grades?
Ofqual says: "Schools and colleges have been told that they must not share their centre assessment grades with students, parents or carers, under any circumstances, until after final results are issued. This is to protect the integrity of centres’ judgements, and to avoid anyone feeling under pressure to submit a grade that is not supported by the evidence. Since the final grades for some or all students in a centre could be different from those submitted, it also helps to manage students’ expectations."
When are results out?
Ofqual says: "We’re working hard to get results out as soon as is possible – results won’t be delayed after the dates they were expected in August and ideally will be released a little earlier, so students can have the certainty they need.
"We are all focused on making sure students are not disadvantaged by these unprecedented circumstances, including allowing for an appeal where appropriate. We will consult on proposals for specific appeal arrangements soon."
Ofqual says: "Students will also have the opportunity to sit exams at the earliest reasonable opportunity in the new academic year - we are working across the sector to plan for how and when these additional exams will take place. Many students will be taking other general and vocational or technical qualifications instead of or alongside GCSEs, AS and A levels. While this process does not apply to those qualifications, the same aims apply. We are working as quickly as possible to develop an approach and we will provide further information as soon as we can."


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Hospital trust only able to test 3 staff for coronavirus per day

A top NHS chief has revealed the full scale of a coronavirus testing crisis for hospital staff in the West Midlands - including a chronic shorting of swabs and equipment .
Chris Hopson is chief executive of NHS Providers which represents NHS trusts , mental health , community and ambulance services .
He and his group have now highlighted major issues at three trusts in the region - including in a COVID-19 'hotspot ' - which is undermining efforts to tackle critical staff shortages .
The Government has been urged for almost two weeks to roll out the testing of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to self-isolation advice , but only gave the go-ahead last week .
It emerged yesterday that the Warwickshire County Cricket ground in Edgbaston is being set up as a drive-thru testing site for NHS staff .
But NHS Providers said some hospitals have been unable to press ahead with their own testing because of serious equipment issues and red tape .
It highlighted a particular issue in the West Midlands including : * A shortage of swabs , with one large district hospital only able to test THREE staff a day ; * @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only able to perform 20 daily tests despite being able to perform 300 ; * And a third West Midlands Trust in a 'coronavirus hotspot ' which has created its own 'testing capacity but needs to wait for formal approval ' .
The hospital trusts have not been named , but the Birmingham NHS region is the leading hotspot for coronavirus cases outside of London .
Outside of London , Brum has the highest number of Covid-19 cases in the country .
There are now 852 cases in the city - a rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released on Thursday showed the country recorded its highest death toll so far on April 2 with 569 deaths and 4,244 new cases .
However , the NHS has warned that the infection levels and the high national death toll will continue to rise for several weeks .
Chris Hopson , chief executive of NHS Providers said : `` Trusts , national NHS leaders , and the government are doing everything they can to increase staff testing capacity and use every single testing slot available now that permission has been given to move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many great examples , once again , of NHS staff mobilising to expand NHS capacity at the drop of a hat .
`` Early results from a very small sample suggest that there is a significant potential prize here in terms of the number of staff who could return to work .
`` But it is striking how many trusts are also reporting significant constraints due to swab and reagent shortages .
Trust leaders will do the very best they can with the resources they have available .
`` But these shortages , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be overcome if we are to see the growth in testing capacity we are all looking for . ''

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A top NHS chief has revealed the full scale of a coronavirus testing crisis for hospital staff in the West Midlands - including a chronic shorting of swabs and equipment.
Chris Hopson is chief executive of NHS Providers which represents NHS trusts, mental health, community and ambulance services.
He and his group have now highlighted major issues at three trusts in the region - including in a COVID-19 'hotspot' - which is undermining efforts to tackle critical staff shortages.
The Government has been urged for almost two weeks to roll out the testing of hospital staff to address rising absences due to self-isolation advice, but only gave the go-ahead last week.
It emerged yesterday that the Warwickshire County Cricket ground in Edgbaston is being set up as a drive-thru testing site for NHS staff.
(Image: Warwickshire County Cricket Club)
But NHS Providers said some hospitals have been unable to press ahead with their own testing because of serious equipment issues and red tape.
It highlighted a particular issue in the West Midlands including:
* A shortage of swabs, with one large district hospital only able to test THREE staff a day;
* Testing kit shortages leaving another hospital trust only able to perform 20 daily tests despite being able to perform 300;
* And a third West Midlands Trust in a 'coronavirus hotspot' which has created its own 'testing capacity but needs to wait for formal approval'.
The hospital trusts have not been named, but the Birmingham NHS region is the leading hotspot for coronavirus cases outside of London.
Outside of London, Brum has the highest number of Covid-19 cases in the country.
There are now 852 cases in the city - a rise of over 100 from Wednesday.
Figures released on Thursday showed the country recorded its highest death toll so far on April 2 with 569 deaths and 4,244 new cases.
However, the NHS has warned that the infection levels and the high national death toll will continue to rise for several weeks.
Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers said: "Trusts, national NHS leaders, and the government are doing everything they can to increase staff testing capacity and use every single testing slot available now that permission has been given to move to staff testing.
"There are many great examples, once again, of NHS staff mobilising to expand NHS capacity at the drop of a hat.
"Early results from a very small sample suggest that there is a significant potential prize here in terms of the number of staff who could return to work.
"But it is striking how many trusts are also reporting significant constraints due to swab and reagent shortages. Trust leaders will do the very best they can with the resources they have available.
"But these shortages, which trusts do not control, need to be overcome if we are to see the growth in testing capacity we are all looking for."


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Coronavirus doctors could be forced to abandon certain patients

Coronavirus patients could have their treatment withdrawn and offered to others who are more likely to survive , new guidance for doctors has warned .
The British Medical Association 's ( BMA ) latest ethics advice said health professionals could be forced to make `` grave decisions '' should hospitals become overwhelmed with patients .
The document warns that decisions around rationing scarce resources , such as ventilators , could determine whether large numbers of patients will receive life-saving treatment or not .
It comes as the UK experienced its biggest day-on-day rise in deaths so far , with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 testing policy .
Some 2,352 patients have died in hospital after testing positive for the virus as of 5pm on Tuesday , the Department of Health said , up by 563 from 1,789 the day before .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a video posted on Twitter that it was a `` sad , sad day '' and that his `` thoughts go out to the families of the victims '' .
The BMA 's new guidance aims to ensure doctors have clear and `` ethically sound support '' should they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care during the pandemic .
Dr John Chisholm , chairman of the BMA 's medical ethics committee , said : `` Looking ahead to the coming weeks , if hard choices are required , we know they will be contested .
There will be anger and pain .
`` People who , in normal circumstances , would receive strenuous treatment may instead be given palliation in order to favour those with greater likelihood of benefiting .
`` Nobody wants to make these decisions , but if resources are overwhelmed , these decisions must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidance states that during the peak of the pandemic doctors may have to assess a person 's eligibility for treatment based on a `` capacity to benefit quickly '' basis .
The guidance states : `` Health professionals may be obliged to withdraw treatment from some patients to enable treatment of other patients with a higher survival probability .
`` This may involve withdrawing treatment from an individual who is stable or even improving but whose objective assessment indicates a worse prognosis than another patient who requires the same resource . ''

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Coronavirus patients could have their treatment withdrawn and offered to others who are more likely to survive, new guidance for doctors has warned.
The British Medical Association's (BMA) latest ethics advice said health professionals could be forced to make "grave decisions" should hospitals become overwhelmed with patients.
The document warns that decisions around rationing scarce resources, such as ventilators, could determine whether large numbers of patients will receive life-saving treatment or not.
It comes as the UK experienced its biggest day-on-day rise in deaths so far, with the Government now facing increasing pressure over its Covid-19 testing policy.
Some 2,352 patients have died in hospital after testing positive for the virus as of 5pm on Tuesday, the Department of Health said, up by 563 from 1,789 the day before.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a video posted on Twitter that it was a "sad, sad day" and that his "thoughts go out to the families of the victims".
(Image: AP)
The BMA's new guidance aims to ensure doctors have clear and "ethically sound support" should they have to make tough decisions around patient care during the pandemic.
Dr John Chisholm, chairman of the BMA's medical ethics committee, said: "Looking ahead to the coming weeks, if hard choices are required, we know they will be contested. There will be anger and pain.
(Image: Getty Images)
"People who, in normal circumstances, would receive strenuous treatment may instead be given palliation in order to favour those with greater likelihood of benefiting.
"Nobody wants to make these decisions, but if resources are overwhelmed, these decisions must be made."
The BMA's guidance states that during the peak of the pandemic doctors may have to assess a person's eligibility for treatment based on a "capacity to benefit quickly" basis.
The guidance states: "Health professionals may be obliged to withdraw treatment from some patients to enable treatment of other patients with a higher survival probability.
"This may involve withdrawing treatment from an individual who is stable or even improving but whose objective assessment indicates a worse prognosis than another patient who requires the same resource."


birminghammail--2020-04-03--West Midlands Railway announces new train timetable starting next week

West Midlands Railway will begin running to a new timetable from next week .
The move from the rail firm comes amid the coronavirus crisis , which has left over 800 people in Birmingham infected .
With passenger numbers continuing to fall and increased numbers of rail staff self-isolating , the operator – along with sister company London Northwestern Railway - has announced further changes will come into effect on Monday 6 April .
The latest timetable has been designed to keep as many services running as possible if part of the network has to close due to the increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ managing director of West Midlands Railway , said : “ The rail industry is facing our biggest challenge in peacetime .
We are working together to operate a regular service for our key workers and those making only the most essential journeys .
“ With increased numbers of rail workers entering self-isolation due to coronavirus and a big drop in passenger numbers , now is the right time to make further changes to our service .
As the government has made clear , people should only use the train for essential journeys .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ tribute to our front-line staff , including drivers , conductors , dispatchers , station teams , engineers , cleaners and those in our control centres .
Their hard work and dedication to keeping the trains running are helping key workers save lives.
” The new timetable , which will be available to view at www.wmr.uk/coronavirus from today , has been built in ‘ chunks ’ to reduce the length of journeys taken by an individual train .
The frequency of trains has been reduced on some routes .
All journeys between Birmingham New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a change at Northampton .
Some routes will no longer receive a West Midlands Railway service , including : • No trains will call at Bearley and Claverdon ( served by Chiltern Railways ) To check live journey information visit www.wmr.uk/plan and follow @ WestMidRailway for updates .

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West Midlands Railway will begin running to a new timetable from next week.
The move from the rail firm comes amid the coronavirus crisis, which has left over 800 people in Birmingham infected.
With passenger numbers continuing to fall and increased numbers of rail staff self-isolating, the operator – along with sister company London Northwestern Railway - has announced further changes will come into effect on Monday 6 April.
The latest timetable has been designed to keep as many services running as possible if part of the network has to close due to the increased impact of COVID-19.
(Image: PA)
Julian Edwards, managing director of West Midlands Railway, said: “The rail industry is facing our biggest challenge in peacetime. We are working together to operate a regular service for our key workers and those making only the most essential journeys.
“With increased numbers of rail workers entering self-isolation due to coronavirus and a big drop in passenger numbers, now is the right time to make further changes to our service. As the government has made clear, people should only use the train for essential journeys.
“I would like to pay special tribute to our front-line staff, including drivers, conductors, dispatchers, station teams, engineers, cleaners and those in our control centres. Their hard work and dedication to keeping the trains running are helping key workers save lives.”
The new timetable, which will be available to view at www.wmr.uk/coronavirus from today, has been built in ‘chunks’ to reduce the length of journeys taken by an individual train.
The frequency of trains has been reduced on some routes. All journeys between Birmingham New Street and London Euston will now involve a change at Northampton.
Some routes will no longer receive a West Midlands Railway service, including:
Worcester to Hereford (no alternative direct operator)
No trains will call at Bearley and Claverdon (served by Chiltern Railways)
To check live journey information visit www.wmr.uk/plan and follow @WestMidRailway for updates.


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Four youngsters who could follow in John McGinn's Villa footsteps

Aston Villa found a bargain when they paid just £2m to sign John McGinn from Hibernian two years ago .
The Scotland international has since gone on to become a star performer at Premier League level , and was already being linked with a summer move to the likes of Manchester United before injury halted his campaign .
So who in Scotland could be next to follow a similar path to McGinn ?
Who is the next big thing to come out of the country ?
We have taken a look at four potential Premier League stars still plying their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest Villa ...
It ’ s fair to say Harry Cochrane burst onto the scene in style , scoring for Hearts as a 16-year-old in a 4-0 thumping of Brendan Rodgers ’ then unbeaten Celtic team .
Cochrane ’ s development has stagnated somewhat since then , spending this season on loan at Dunfermline Athletic , but is still only 18 and has a bright future ahead of him .
Cochrane likes a shot from distance , as he showed in that famous victory over Celtic , and with more than 50 senior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boasts an impressive amount of experience for someone still so young .
The central midfielder will surely expect to be given more game time at his parent club Hearts next season , unless someone comes in for him first .
The Accies have earned themselves a reputation over the years as one of Scotland ’ s producers of youth .
No club in the country ’ s top flight puts as much faith in their young players as Hamilton , and that has been to the benefit of Scott Martin , one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Accies drive and energy through the centre of the pitch .
Martin is their midfield engine and has been a first team figure at New Douglas Park for the last two seasons .
He could be the next player to follow in the footsteps of the likes of James McArthur and James McCarthy , both of whom were given their start by Hamilton .
Many believe Ali McCann should be the frontrunner for this season ’ s Young Player of the Year award in Scotland .
He is the dynamo through which the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flows through , their most influential player on the pitch .
Indeed , there are few better in the Scottish Premiership at dictating the pace and direction of a game from the middle of the pitch than McCann .
He has flourished under the guidance of Tommy Wright and is almost certainly on course to receive a call up to the Northern Ireland squad sooner rather than later .
Had it not been for a snag in his medical , David Turnbull would have become a Celtic player for £3.25m last summer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ season in 2018/19 , scoring 15 times in 34 appearances for Motherwell , and attracting the attention of both Celtic and Norwich City .
He chose to join the Hoops , but the move collapsed at the last minute .
Turnbull has only just made his first return to first team action after undergoing surgery on his knee , but the early signs have been positive .
He will require more game time to return to his best , but there ’ s no reason to believe he won ’ t achieve that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interested .

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Aston Villa found a bargain when they paid just £2m to sign John McGinn from Hibernian two years ago.
The Scotland international has since gone on to become a star performer at Premier League level, and was already being linked with a summer move to the likes of Manchester United before injury halted his campaign.
So who in Scotland could be next to follow a similar path to McGinn? Who is the next big thing to come out of the country? We have taken a look at four potential Premier League stars still plying their trade north of the border who could interest Villa...
Harry Cochrane
Club: Hearts
Age: 18
Nationality: Scotland
It’s fair to say Harry Cochrane burst onto the scene in style, scoring for Hearts as a 16-year-old in a 4-0 thumping of Brendan Rodgers’ then unbeaten Celtic team.
Cochrane’s development has stagnated somewhat since then, spending this season on loan at Dunfermline Athletic, but is still only 18 and has a bright future ahead of him.
Cochrane likes a shot from distance, as he showed in that famous victory over Celtic, and with more than 50 senior league appearances under his belt already he boasts an impressive amount of experience for someone still so young.
The central midfielder will surely expect to be given more game time at his parent club Hearts next season, unless someone comes in for him first.
Scott Martin
Club: Hamilton
Age: 22
Nationality: Scotland
The Accies have earned themselves a reputation over the years as one of Scotland’s producers of youth. No club in the country’s top flight puts as much faith in their young players as Hamilton,
and that has been to the benefit of Scott Martin, one of their prize assets.
The youngster gives Accies drive and energy through the centre of the pitch. Martin is their midfield engine and has been a first team figure at New Douglas Park for the last two seasons.
He could be the next player to follow in the footsteps of the likes of James McArthur and James McCarthy, both of whom were given their start by Hamilton.
Ali McCann
Club: St Johnstone
Age: 20
Nationality: Northern Ireland
Many believe Ali McCann should be the frontrunner for this season’s Young Player of the Year award in Scotland.
He is the dynamo through which the majority of St Johnstone’s play flows through, their most influential player on the pitch.
Indeed, there are few better in the Scottish Premiership at dictating the pace and direction of a game from the middle of the pitch than McCann.
He has flourished under the guidance of Tommy Wright and is almost certainly on course to receive a call up to the Northern Ireland squad sooner rather than later.
David Turnbull
Club: Motherwell
Age: 20
Nationality: Scotland
Had it not been for a snag in his medical, David Turnbull would have become a Celtic player for £3.25m last summer.
The central midfielder enjoyed a remarkable breakthrough season in 2018/19, scoring 15 times in 34 appearances for Motherwell, and attracting the attention of both Celtic and Norwich City. He chose to join the Hoops, but the move collapsed at the last minute.
Turnbull has only just made his first return to first team action after undergoing surgery on his knee, but the early signs have been positive.
He will require more game time to return to his best, but there’s no reason to believe he won’t achieve that. More than just Celtic should be interested.


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Download Festival goers raise £75,000 for NHS in just four days

Download Festival have revealed festival-goers have helped to raise more than £75,000 for the NHS through the sale of charity t-shirts , in less than four days .
Last week , organisers announced the festival , which was due to have KISS , Iron Maiden and System Of A Down headlining in June , would be cancelled as a result of the coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak .
As a result , on March 31 , the festival rolled out just 500 NHS/Download themed t-shirts in support of NHS Charities Together , a charity which supports NHS staff working tirelessly across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes , patrons across the UK donated to NHS Charities Together instead and helped to raise a total of £75,000 and rising , according to Download Festival .
An e-mail sent to Download Festival subscribers on April 3 read : `` We ’ re thrilled to announce that so far our DL2020 Charity T-Shirt has raised an epic total of £75,000 ( and counting ) for NHS Charities Together .
`` We ’ ve been blown away by your response so , after the 500 t-shirts sold out in minutes , we chose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much money for charity as possible .
`` It ’ s been so special to see the stories from Downloaders and their nearest and dearest working on the frontlines of the NHS .
We want to celebrate our NHS and emergency services rockstars , so please share stories and photos with your t-shirts on social media - using # NHSRockStars - and we ’ ll be sure to give them the spotlight they deserve . ''
Download Festival is expected to make more t-shirts , available for £20 per shirt , from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to continue raising money to help frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic in the UK .

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Download Festival have revealed festival-goers have helped to raise more than £75,000 for the NHS through the sale of charity t-shirts, in less than four days.
Last week, organisers announced the festival, which was due to have KISS, Iron Maiden and System Of A Down headlining in June, would be cancelled as a result of the coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak.
As a result, on March 31, the festival rolled out just 500 NHS/Download themed t-shirts in support of NHS Charities Together, a charity which supports NHS staff working tirelessly across the UK.
After the shirts sold-out within minutes, patrons across the UK donated to NHS Charities Together instead and helped to raise a total of £75,000 and rising, according to Download Festival.
(Image: Download Festival)
An e-mail sent to Download Festival subscribers on April 3 read: "We’re thrilled to announce that so far our DL2020 Charity T-Shirt has raised an epic total of £75,000 (and counting) for NHS Charities Together.
"We’ve been blown away by your response so, after the 500 t-shirts sold out in minutes, we chose to extend the run to raise as much money for charity as possible.
"It’s been so special to see the stories from Downloaders and their nearest and dearest working on the frontlines of the NHS. We want to celebrate our NHS and emergency services rockstars, so please share stories and photos with your t-shirts on social media - using #NHSRockStars - and we’ll be sure to give them the spotlight they deserve."
Download Festival is expected to make more t-shirts, available for £20 per shirt, from the online shop on the Download Festival website to continue raising money to help frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic in the UK.


birminghammail--2020-04-03--M&S selling dine-in meal deal for £12 amid coronavirus lockdown

M & S has launched its dine-in for two meal deal - and it 'll get your tastebuds tingling , @ @ @ @ @ and Spencer is renowned for its food and drink offerings , with its meal deal @ @ @ @ @ Its new offer includes three courses and even a bottle of wine for £12 , @ @ @ @ @ Although Marks & Spencer 's clothing stores may be shut its food halls remain open @ @ @ @ @ their essentials .
For £12 , shoppers can pick a main , side , dessert @ @ @ @ @ or soft drink .
M & S is warning customers that due to the current @ @ @ @ @ to availability .
We 've included the full menu below which will be available in @ @ @ @ @ the week :

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Catherine Murphy, James Rodger)

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M&S has launched its dine-in for two meal deal - and it'll get your tastebuds tingling, we're sure.
Marks and Spencer is renowned for its food and drink offerings, with its meal deal famous among Brit shoppers.
Its new offer includes three courses and even a bottle of wine for £12, reports The Liverpool Echo.
Although Marks & Spencer's clothing stores may be shut its food halls remain open for shoppers to pick up their essentials.
For £12, shoppers can pick a main, side, dessert and a bottle of wine or soft drink.
M&S is warning customers that due to the current climate all items are subject to availability.
We've included the full menu below which will be available in stores for the remainder of the week:
Mains:
Roasted mushroom stroganoff
Gastropub cottage pie
Rotisserie chicken
Sea bass fillets
Slow cooked beef ragu pappardelle
Gastropub fish pie
Rump steaks
Gastropub steak lasagne
Sides:
Peas and carrots
Tenderstem broccoli
Red onion and fontal cheese pantofola
Potato rosti
Chunky chips
Carrot and swede crush
Desserts:
Lemon and mascarpone cheesecake slices
Profiterole stack
Seedless sable grapes
Gastropub sticky toffee pudding
Chocolate Swiss roll
Chocolate and cherry dessert pot
Eve's pudding
Cheese selection
Wines:
Rastras Malbec
Loire sauvignon blanc
Gold Label rose


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Tiger King's Joe Exotic 'gets coronavirus' as Netflix star quarantined

Tiger King star Joe Exotic has coronavirus , according to reports .
The star of the controversial Netflix series , which has gone viral since it was made available to stream , reportedly has Covid-19 .
The zookeeper , who starred in the show , is currently serving a 22-year sentence at a federal prison in Texas .
Joe Exotic is behind bars for 17 charges of animal abuse and two counts of murder for hire .
His husband Dillion Passage , 24 , was worried that Joe , 57 , would contract the deadly bug amid the global pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the jail came down with the virus .
Joe had been been self-isolating but has now contracted the virus , according to a report from the prison - reports Mirror Online .
A report from Texomashompage.com reported he has tested positive for Covid-19 and has been transferred to a hospital .
Speaking to Andy Cohen on his SiriusXM Radio Andy show on Wednesday , Dillon said : `` We speak like three to five times every day , but since he ’ s been moved to this new facility , they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the previous jail he was at , there were cases .
`` I ’ ve yet to speak to him since he moved.
” Dillon then confirmed that Joe `` is in his own Covid-19 quarantine.
” He continued : `` From what I know , yes .
From what he told me . ''
Joe was imprisoned in 2019 after he was found guilty of paying a hitman $ 3,000 to kill his nemesis , Carole Baskin , who is an animal rights activist .
Dillon continued to declare his loyalty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apart for almost two decades .
He told Adam Cohen : `` I do love Joe .
He ’ s been with my through my darkest times , and I ’ m not going to just dip out and abandon him when he needs me most . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Verity Sulway, James Rodger)

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Tiger King star Joe Exotic has coronavirus, according to reports.
The star of the controversial Netflix series, which has gone viral since it was made available to stream, reportedly has Covid-19.
The zookeeper, who starred in the show, is currently serving a 22-year sentence at a federal prison in Texas.
Joe Exotic is behind bars for 17 charges of animal abuse and two counts of murder for hire.
His husband Dillion Passage, 24, was worried that Joe, 57, would contract the deadly bug amid the global pandemic.
His fears surfaced after other prisoners in the jail came down with the virus.
Joe had been been self-isolating but has now contracted the virus, according to a report from the prison - reports Mirror Online.
A report from Texomashompage.com reported he has tested positive for Covid-19 and has been transferred to a hospital.
Speaking to Andy Cohen on his SiriusXM Radio Andy show on Wednesday, Dillon said: "We speak like three to five times every day, but since he’s been moved to this new facility, they are putting him on a Covid-19 isolation because of the previous jail he was at, there were cases.
"I’ve yet to speak to him since he moved.”
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Dillon then confirmed that Joe "is in his own Covid-19 quarantine.”
He continued: "From what I know, yes. From what he told me."
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Joe was imprisoned in 2019 after he was found guilty of paying a hitman $3,000 to kill his nemesis, Carole Baskin, who is an animal rights activist.
Dillon continued to declare his loyalty to Joe, despite them probably being apart for almost two decades.
He told Adam Cohen: "I do love Joe. He’s been with my through my darkest times, and I’m not going to just dip out and abandon him when he needs me most."


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Watch cities come alive with applause for every critical worker

This is the beautiful moment a mass applause and even fireworks erupted across the West Midlands as residents came together to thank the critical workers in the fight against coronavirus .
Communities once again were out in force to show their appreciation for the NHS - and every other essential worker keeping our cities afloat amid the crisis .
As 8pm struck on Thursday , April 2 , a second applause rang out across Birmingham , the Black Country and Coventry as the public showed their appreciation for those still battling on the front line .
Just as with last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residents stepped out of their doors to clap , cheer , shout , whistle - and some even launched fireworks - to give thanks against the backdrop of tragedy .
As the UK death toll rose to 2,921 , the workers risking their lives to keep us safe - with no protection against the deadly virus - became the centre of our gratitude .
In heartwarming scenes above , communities in Yardley , Stirchley , Stourbridge , Coventry University Hospital , Shirley , Walsall , Wolverhampton , Sutton Coldfield and Gornal ( Dudley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unison .
In Coventry , one woman was even seen banging a drum outside her home moments ahead of the clap .
And in a Gornal street , fireworks were launched and one family even set up their projection screen outside - lit up with the words : 'You are simply the best ' .
Along with the NHS heroes on the front line , this week we thanked the bin men keeping our streets clean amid the lockdown , the posties keeping us in touch with one another through the isolation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We dedicated our applause for the supermarket staff , the delivery drivers and the warehouse workers ensuring we 're all fed despite the grave dangers to themselves .
And we clapped for the pharmacists too , making sure we can all safely access our essential prescriptions and medication .
Volunteers and so many other workers were also applauded .
This second national applause followed calls for a clap for all our key workers after last Thursday 's clap singled out the NHS for their incredible bravery amongst the pandemic .

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This is the beautiful moment a mass applause and even fireworks erupted across the West Midlands as residents came together to thank the critical workers in the fight against coronavirus.
Communities once again were out in force to show their appreciation for the NHS - and every other essential worker keeping our cities afloat amid the crisis.
As 8pm struck on Thursday, April 2, a second applause rang out across Birmingham, the Black Country and Coventry as the public showed their appreciation for those still battling on the front line.
Just as with last week's clap for our carers, residents stepped out of their doors to clap, cheer, shout, whistle - and some even launched fireworks - to give thanks against the backdrop of tragedy.
As the UK death toll rose to 2,921, the workers risking their lives to keep us safe - with no protection against the deadly virus - became the centre of our gratitude.
In heartwarming scenes above, communities in Yardley, Stirchley, Stourbridge, Coventry University Hospital, Shirley, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Sutton Coldfield and Gornal (Dudley), are all seen clapping in unison.
In Coventry, one woman was even seen banging a drum outside her home moments ahead of the clap. And in a Gornal street, fireworks were launched and one family even set up their projection screen outside - lit up with the words: 'You are simply the best'.
Along with the NHS heroes on the front line, this week we thanked the bin men keeping our streets clean amid the lockdown, the posties keeping us in touch with one another through the isolation and the police keeping us safe from crime.
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We dedicated our applause for the supermarket staff, the delivery drivers and the warehouse workers ensuring we're all fed despite the grave dangers to themselves.
And we clapped for the pharmacists too, making sure we can all safely access our essential prescriptions and medication. Volunteers and so many other workers were also applauded.
This second national applause followed calls for a clap for all our key workers after last Thursday's clap singled out the NHS for their incredible bravery amongst the pandemic.


birminghammail--2020-04-03--ITV Virtual Grand National odds - the favourites among runners and riders

Tiger Roll has been installed as the clear favourite to win the Virtual Grand National , hosted by ITV this weekend .
The computerised Gordon Elliott-trained leads the market as 5/1 favourite , ahead of Any Second Now at 10/1 .
Willie Mullins ' Burrows Saint is the 12/1 third favourite , followed by Definitly Red at 14/1 .
Kimberlite Candy follows next in the running at 16/1 , ahead of Potters Corner ( 18/1 ) , Magic of the Light ( 18/1 ) and Bristol De Mai ( 20/1 ) .
ITV will broadcast the Virtual Grand National on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runners who would have theoretically have taken part in the real race .
This is not the first time the virtual race has taken place however , first tried in 2017 when the algorithms had some incredibly close calls .
Cause of Causes won the first Virtual Grand National in 2017 before later coming in second place by four-and-a-half lengths in the real race .
In 2018 , the algorithm proved its money worth when it correctly predicted Tiger Roll 's first Grand National win .
In 2019 it called three of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Callum Wilson : “ We 'll never know if Tiger Roll would 've won a third straight Grand National at Aintree this year , but Gordon Elliott 's 10-year-old may still find success in the virtual sphere .
`` With such an accurate algorithm , the Virtual Grand National may still see Tiger Roll net punters a nifty profit . ''
Any Second Now - 10/1

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Tiger Roll has been installed as the clear favourite to win the Virtual Grand National, hosted by ITV this weekend.
The computerised Gordon Elliott-trained leads the market as 5/1 favourite, ahead of Any Second Now at 10/1.
Willie Mullins' Burrows Saint is the 12/1 third favourite, followed by Definitly Red at 14/1.
Kimberlite Candy follows next in the running at 16/1, ahead of Potters Corner (18/1), Magic of the Light (18/1) and Bristol De Mai (20/1).
ITV will broadcast the Virtual Grand National on April 4 at 5pm, featuring 40 runners who would have theoretically have taken part in the real race.
(Image: PA)
This is not the first time the virtual race has taken place however, first tried in 2017 when the algorithms had some incredibly close calls.
Cause of Causes won the first Virtual Grand National in 2017 before later coming in second place by four-and-a-half lengths in the real race.
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In 2018, the algorithm proved its money worth when it correctly predicted Tiger Roll's first Grand National win.
In 2019 it called three of the first five race finishers.
Oddschecker spokesperson Callum Wilson: “We'll never know if Tiger Roll would've won a third straight Grand National at Aintree this year, but Gordon Elliott's 10-year-old may still find success in the virtual sphere.
"With such an accurate algorithm, the Virtual Grand National may still see Tiger Roll net punters a nifty profit."
ends
Virtual Grand National winner 2020:
Tiger Roll - 5/1
Any Second Now - 10/1
Burrows Saint - 12/1
Definitily Red - 14/1
Potters Corner - 18/1
Magic of the Light - 18/1
Anibale Fly - 20/1
Bristol De Mai 20/1
Bar - 25/1


birminghammail--2020-04-03--More bad news for Danny Drinkwater as national newspaper story emerges

Danny Drinkwater 's restaurant in Manchester is nearly £2 million in debt despite opening in January last year , according to a report in the national press .
According to The Sun , the on-loan Aston Villa midfielder 's FoodWell outlet has got off to a poor start with Companies House records showing it has liabilities of £1.7 million .
In terms of actual cash reserves the accounts , filed on March 17 , show up just £8,435 .
Located in Stanley Street , Salford , the restaurant 's aim is to cater for a 'real work/life balance ' according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Manchester Evening News in 2018 .
Marketed toward young professionals , it aims to attract workers who are looking for a place to conduct their business during the week but changes to a community hub at the weekend .
The restaurant employs 45 people and has a four-star rating on TripAdvisor with plenty of good reviews on the website .
Companies House also shows assets ( stock and equipment ) of £725,962 .
Drinkwater was signed by Villa on loan from Chelsea in January and made his debut in a 6-1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The 30-year-old was sent home from training by Villa head coach Dean Smith last month after he was involved in an altercation with team-mate Jota .
He has n't been involved in the past two Premier League games , ending both as an unused substitute .

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Danny Drinkwater's restaurant in Manchester is nearly £2 million in debt despite opening in January last year, according to a report in the national press.
According to The Sun, the on-loan Aston Villa midfielder's FoodWell outlet has got off to a poor start with Companies House records showing it has liabilities of £1.7 million.
In terms of actual cash reserves the accounts, filed on March 17, show up just £8,435.
Located in Stanley Street, Salford, the restaurant's aim is to cater for a 'real work/life balance' according to co-founder Christian Coates in an interview with the Manchester Evening News in 2018.
Marketed toward young professionals, it aims to attract workers who are looking for a place to conduct their business during the week but changes to a community hub at the weekend.
The restaurant employs 45 people and has a four-star rating on TripAdvisor with plenty of good reviews on the website.
Companies House also shows assets (stock and equipment) of £725,962.
Drinkwater was signed by Villa on loan from Chelsea in January and made his debut in a 6-1 hammering by Manchester City at Villa Park.
The 30-year-old was sent home from training by Villa head coach Dean Smith last month after he was involved in an altercation with team-mate Jota.
He hasn't been involved in the past two Premier League games, ending both as an unused substitute.


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Birmingham weather forecast as temperatures set to soar to 18C

Birmingham is braced for blue skies , glorious sunshine and rising temperatures this weekend - as thousands across the city face a coronavirus lockdown .
As the Covid-19 outbreak leaves Brummies entitled to one daily walk , cycle or run , many will be sitting in their gardens as the weather turns .
The soaring temperatures will hit 18C on Sunday , April 15 , with Brummies no doubt taking the opportunity to sit outside with books , alcohol and garden picnics .
The temperatures will hit the high-teens over the weekend , with highs of 16C expected throughout the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out in full force from Sunday onwards , perhaps making its presence felt most on Tuesday , April 7 , according to the Met Office .
A five-day forecast has been issued by the meteorological agency as we head towards the weekend .
Before the two-day break from work , forecasters have said they expect an upturn in weather .
Friday is expected to be a chilly day with temperatures struggling to reach double figures , especially in the north .
The Met Office forecast for April 3 reads : `` Patchy cloud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be some sunny spells .
Mostly dry , though the chance of one or two showers . ''
Tonight will see `` any showers tending to die away overnight and cloud gradually thinning to allow a patchy frost to develop in rural areas . ''
Saturday will be a `` fine and bright morning for most , though patchy cloud will bubble up through the afternoon accompanied by a strengthening breeze .
Feeling much warmer than Friday . ''
And the outlook for Sunday onwards reads : `` Sunday looks to be mostly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday should see some heavy showers at times and be breezy .
Potentially more settled by Tuesday . ''

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Birmingham is braced for blue skies, glorious sunshine and rising temperatures this weekend - as thousands across the city face a coronavirus lockdown.
As the Covid-19 outbreak leaves Brummies entitled to one daily walk, cycle or run, many will be sitting in their gardens as the weather turns.
The soaring temperatures will hit 18C on Sunday, April 15, with Brummies no doubt taking the opportunity to sit outside with books, alcohol and garden picnics.
The temperatures will hit the high-teens over the weekend, with highs of 16C expected throughout the next week.
The sun will be out in full force from Sunday onwards, perhaps making its presence felt most on Tuesday, April 7, according to the Met Office.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
A five-day forecast has been issued by the meteorological agency as we head towards the weekend.
Before the two-day break from work, forecasters have said they expect an upturn in weather.
Friday is expected to be a chilly day with temperatures struggling to reach double figures, especially in the north.
The Met Office forecast for April 3 reads: "Patchy cloud for many, but there should still be some sunny spells. Mostly dry, though the chance of one or two showers."
Tonight will see "any showers tending to die away overnight and cloud gradually thinning to allow a patchy frost to develop in rural areas."
Saturday will be a "fine and bright morning for most, though patchy cloud will bubble up through the afternoon accompanied by a strengthening breeze. Feeling much warmer than Friday."
And the outlook for Sunday onwards reads: "Sunday looks to be mostly dry and breezy with sunny spells. Monday should see some heavy showers at times and be breezy. Potentially more settled by Tuesday."


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Piers Morgan's tribute to nurse, 36, who died after coronavirus diagnosis

Piers Morgan has paid tribute to an `` absolute heroine '' nurse from the Black Country who has tragically died from coronavirus .
Mum-of-three Areema Nasreen tested positive for the virus after developing a soaring temperature , body aches and a cough .
The married 36-year-old was later rushed to Walsall Manor Hospital after her condition worsened .
Taking to Twitter , Good Morning Britain host Piers paid tribute after the tragedy was confirmed to BirminghamLive .
The GMB presenter and former newspaper editor tweeted : `` RIP Areema Nasreen , 36 .
An NHS nurse for 16yrs , loving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Killed by # Coronavirus that she contracted at Walsall Manor Hospital as she fought to save others ’ lives .
An absolute heroine . ''
His tweet has been widely shared as fellow social media users took to the platform to pay their respects .
Areema , 36 , was put on a ventilator in intensive care - but although her condition is understood to have improved slightly last week , she took a turn for the worst and sadly died in the early hours of this morning ( Friday , April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a staff nurse at Walsall Manor Hospital ’ s Acute Medical Unit , had previously said she 'd wanted to be a nurse since she was a teenager , after caring for her nan who suffered a stroke .
In the wake of her tragic death , devastated friends took to social media to share heartfelt tributes .
One emotional post said : `` She was the most loveliest , genuine person you could ever meet , she went above and beyond for everyone she met .
`` I ’ m so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call her my best friend , she saw me at my best and my worst and accepted my every flaw .
`` I am so broken that words can ’ t explain .
I can ’ t believe I will not see your smile again .
You made me the nurse that I am today , with your support , motivation and inspiration . ''
A close friend of the 36-year-old mother-of-three , who worked at Walsall Manor Hospital , paid tribute to her on social media and confirmed she had died .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ She was the most loveliest , genuine person you could ever meet , she went above and beyond for everyone she met .
`` I am so broken that words ca n't explain .
I ca n't believe I will not see your smile again . ''

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Piers Morgan has paid tribute to an "absolute heroine" nurse from the Black Country who has tragically died from coronavirus.
Mum-of-three Areema Nasreen tested positive for the virus after developing a soaring temperature, body aches and a cough.
The married 36-year-old was later rushed to Walsall Manor Hospital after her condition worsened.
Taking to Twitter, Good Morning Britain host Piers paid tribute after the tragedy was confirmed to BirminghamLive.
The GMB presenter and former newspaper editor tweeted: "RIP Areema Nasreen, 36. An NHS nurse for 16yrs, loving wife & mother of 3 young children. Killed by #Coronavirus that she contracted at Walsall Manor Hospital as she fought to save others’ lives. An absolute heroine."
His tweet has been widely shared as fellow social media users took to the platform to pay their respects.
Areema, 36, was put on a ventilator in intensive care - but although her condition is understood to have improved slightly last week, she took a turn for the worst and sadly died in the early hours of this morning (Friday, April 3).
(Image: ITV)
Areema, who worked as a staff nurse at Walsall Manor Hospital’s Acute Medical Unit, had previously said she'd wanted to be a nurse since she was a teenager, after caring for her nan who suffered a stroke.
In the wake of her tragic death, devastated friends took to social media to share heartfelt tributes.
One emotional post said: "She was the most loveliest, genuine person you could ever meet, she went above and beyond for everyone she met.
"I’m so grateful that I had the honour to call her my best friend, she saw me at my best and my worst and accepted my every flaw.
"I am so broken that words can’t explain. I can’t believe I will not see your smile again. You made me the nurse that I am today, with your support, motivation and inspiration."
A close friend of the 36-year-old mother-of-three, who worked at Walsall Manor Hospital, paid tribute to her on social media and confirmed she had died.
Fellow nurse Rubi Aktar said: "She was the most loveliest, genuine person you could ever meet, she went above and beyond for everyone she met.
"I am so broken that words can't explain. I can't believe I will not see your smile again."


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Inside Birmingham Airport's eerie empty flights amid coronavirus

A man on a flight to Birmingham said it was like `` getting a private jet '' - with only FIVE other passengers on board .
Christian-Laurentiu Porumb , 25 , was flying from Romania to Birmingham after a work course was cancelled .
But he was shocked the 6.20am Wizz Air flight from Cluj-Napoca to Birmingham was almost empty - with just six passengers .
He was in Romania for a barber course which got cancelled so decided to fly home Portatown , Northern Ireland , via Birmingham .
He said : `` In the waiting room after security @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Half an hour before the flight boarded there were three people , then after than another three people came in with this fight to Birmingham .
`` It felt like an apocalypse .
This is like history .
It was scary because everything was closed . ''
Mr Porumb chatted with the other passengers - one of whom was English and the other five were Romanian .
He said they all felt like they had 'just entered this private aeroplane . '
`` I did not expect there to be only six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like 34 . ''
They were all sat together around the middle exit of the plane , but were spaced out in line with social distancing guidance .
He wore gloves and masks to protect himself , which he bought .
He added that the airport did not provide hand sanitisers and their temperatures were never checked .
`` I would n't do it again for sure , '' he said .
He caught another flight from Birmingham to Dublin which he said had just seven passengers .
When they arrived in Dublin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days .

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A man on a flight to Birmingham said it was like "getting a private jet" - with only FIVE other passengers on board.
Christian-Laurentiu Porumb, 25, was flying from Romania to Birmingham after a work course was cancelled.
But he was shocked the 6.20am Wizz Air flight from Cluj-Napoca to Birmingham was almost empty - with just six passengers.
He was in Romania for a barber course which got cancelled so decided to fly home Portatown, Northern Ireland, via Birmingham.
He said: "In the waiting room after security there were five or six people.
"Half an hour before the flight boarded there were three people, then after than another three people came in with this fight to Birmingham.
"It felt like an apocalypse. This is like history. It was scary because everything was closed."
(Image: Cristian Laurentiu Porumb / SWNS)
Mr Porumb chatted with the other passengers - one of whom was English and the other five were Romanian.
He said they all felt like they had 'just entered this private aeroplane.'
"I did not expect there to be only six people. I thought it would be like 34."
(Image: Cristian Laurentiu Porumb / SWNS)
They were all sat together around the middle exit of the plane, but were spaced out in line with social distancing guidance.
He wore gloves and masks to protect himself, which he bought.
He added that the airport did not provide hand sanitisers and their temperatures were never checked.
"I wouldn't do it again for sure," he said.
(Image: Cristian Laurentiu Porumb / SWNS)
He caught another flight from Birmingham to Dublin which he said had just seven passengers.
When they arrived in Dublin they were told to self-isolate for 14 days.


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Golf fan turns car into mobile DRIVING RANGE in coronavirus lockdown

A golf fanatic has turned his car into a mobile DRIVING RANGE - and is using it to beat boredom during lockdown .
John Imrie , 27 , decided to renovate the `` banger '' with pal Kurt Hill , 31 , after the pair took a road trip and struggled to find places to get their golf fix .
The duo then covered the £400 Daihatsu Charade with artificial turf after returning home - and started whacking balls from the roof .
John is now using the modified car - dubbed 'El Slice ' - to get out and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The self-proclaimed 18-handicapper drives to a seculded spot to work on his game for an hour .
He says he 's regularly followed by the police when he sets off but is soon left alone after they realise it 's roadworthy and legal .
John said : `` Now that the lockdown is in place and the car is sat on my drive , this is the perfect way to spend my one hour of exercise a day .
`` I have the countryside right on my doorstep .
`` It 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , let off some steam and keep sport in my mind since all gyms , golf courses and football clubs are closed for the forseeable future .
`` I have always been a sporty person .
I take the car out almost daily .
`` The police are always keen to drive behind me with the ANPR to make sure all of the modifications are insured properly .
`` But when they realise this car is taxed , has an MOT and is insured properly , they leave me to it .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ value and fact this car is cheering a lot of people up during a time like this !
`` The confusion on peoples ' faces at first is amazing .
`` But , as more and more people become aware of its existence , people like to cheer us on , appauld our shots , get a picture or simply give us a wave on our travels . ''
Admin worker John , from Northumberland , may have invested time and money into the car - but says that wo n't stop him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lifted .
He said : `` We purchased the car as a stock banger last summer for £400 and the fun that we have got out of it is priceless !
`` The idea to make the car came whilst on a European road trip in this exact car .
`` Kurt and I l were on our way back through from filming for our YouTube channel when the chat happened about what we should do with it next .
`` Kurt then went on to say how he had some artifical turf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole car in it .
`` This was when it clicked , as we had been struggling to find places to tee off from on our road trip , why do n't we turn it into a mobile driving range !
`` We have n't long had the car made and only just managed to squeeze in another road trip - 'The North Coast 500 ' - days before the lockdown .
`` It 's a little tin can - reliable and affordable .
`` We are planning to sell the car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We may even raffle it off really cheap , giving people a chance to snap it up for a couple of quid ! ''

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A golf fanatic has turned his car into a mobile DRIVING RANGE - and is using it to beat boredom during lockdown.
John Imrie, 27, decided to renovate the "banger" with pal Kurt Hill, 31, after the pair took a road trip and struggled to find places to get their golf fix.
The duo then covered the £400 Daihatsu Charade with artificial turf after returning home - and started whacking balls from the roof.
John is now using the modified car - dubbed 'El Slice' - to get out and about during the enforced isolation period.
The self-proclaimed 18-handicapper drives to a seculded spot to work on his game for an hour.
He says he's regularly followed by the police when he sets off but is soon left alone after they realise it's roadworthy and legal.
(Image: SWNS.com)
John said: "Now that the lockdown is in place and the car is sat on my drive, this is the perfect way to spend my one hour of exercise a day.
"I have the countryside right on my doorstep.
"It's a great way to keep the golf going, let off some steam and keep sport in my mind since all gyms, golf courses and football clubs are closed for the forseeable future.
(Image: SWNS.com)
"I have always been a sporty person. I take the car out almost daily.
"The police are always keen to drive behind me with the ANPR to make sure all of the modifications are insured properly.
"But when they realise this car is taxed, has an MOT and is insured properly, they leave me to it.
"I think they can see the comedy value and fact this car is cheering a lot of people up during a time like this!
(Image: SWNS.com)
"The confusion on peoples' faces at first is amazing.
"But, as more and more people become aware of its existence, people like to cheer us on, appauld our shots, get a picture or simply give us a wave on our travels."
Admin worker John, from Northumberland, may have invested time and money into the car - but says that won't stop him from selling it when the lockdown is lifted.
He said: "We purchased the car as a stock banger last summer for £400 and the fun that we have got out of it is priceless!
"The idea to make the car came whilst on a European road trip in this exact car.
"Kurt and I l were on our way back through from filming for our YouTube channel when the chat happened about what we should do with it next.
(Image: SWNS.com)
"Kurt then went on to say how he had some artifical turf at home and that we should cover the whole car in it.
"This was when it clicked, as we had been struggling to find places to tee off from on our road trip, why don't we turn it into a mobile driving range!
"We haven't long had the car made and only just managed to squeeze in another road trip - 'The North Coast 500' - days before the lockdown.
"It's a little tin can - reliable and affordable.
"We are planning to sell the car when the coronavirus comes to an end.
"We may even raffle it off really cheap, giving people a chance to snap it up for a couple of quid!"


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Rivals plot move for Aston Villa transfer target - reports

A new club appears to have entered the race to sign Aston Villa -linked defender Christian Luyindama .
The 26-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Villa Park ahead of the January window with Dean Smith looking to snap up reinforcements for the battle against relegation .
Premier League trio Everton , West Ham and Wolverhampton Wanderers have also been credited with an interest in the Galatasaray centre-back .
Now fresh reports in Turkey claim that Bournemouth have entered the race to sign the defender , who appeared to be of interest to Villa during the January transfer window @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first half of the season , it was claimed in Turkey that Villa had put together a package of around £10m to lure him to the Premier League .
But Luyindama suffered a serious knee injury in November , tearing a cruciate ligament while playing for DR Congo against Gambia .
It was also reported last month that West Ham were ready to pay up to £13.5m to land the player as Galatasaray plan an overhaul of their squad for next season .
Villa eventually signed Danny Drinkwater , Pepe Reina , Mbwana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ squad in January .

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A new club appears to have entered the race to sign Aston Villa -linked defender Christian Luyindama.
The 26-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Villa Park ahead of the January window with Dean Smith looking to snap up reinforcements for the battle against relegation.
Premier League trio Everton, West Ham and Wolverhampton Wanderers have also been credited with an interest in the Galatasaray centre-back.
Now fresh reports in Turkey claim that Bournemouth have entered the race to sign the defender, who appeared to be of interest to Villa during the January transfer window.
Having impressed for Galatasaray during the first half of the season, it was claimed in Turkey that Villa had put together a package of around £10m to lure him to the Premier League.
But Luyindama suffered a serious knee injury in November, tearing a cruciate ligament while playing for DR Congo against Gambia.
It was also reported last month that West Ham were ready to pay up to £13.5m to land the player as Galatasaray plan an overhaul of their squad for next season.
Villa eventually signed Danny Drinkwater, Pepe Reina, Mbwana Samatta and Borja Baston to reinforce the squad in January.


birminghammail--2020-04-03--The Jack Grealish comparison that will interest Villa fans

A former manager of Jack Grealish has compared the Aston Villa captain to a current Celtic player .
Grealish has risen to the prestigious title of Villa skipper , but the 24-year-old had to work his way up and earn his place before taking on the role .
Before he broke into the Villa first-team , Grealish had a loan spell at Notts County in 2013/14 , with the Magpies then in League One .
During his stint at Meadow Lane , Grealish 40 appearances where he scored five goals under the guidance of two managers .
Chris Kiwomya was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign , before Shaun Derry took over in November of that season .
Derry has compared Grealish to another former Notts loanee , Callum McGregor , who currently plays for Scottish Premiership side Celtic .
McGregor was also on loan at Meadow Lane , and Derry has compared the two players ’ work rates and personalities , both on and off the field .
“ They were very different players and personalities , ” Derry told the Scottish Sun .
“ Jack was a chirpy kid while Callum was much quieter and very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple of years older , he also understood the game a little more than Jack did .
“ Callum also had a greater appreciation of the game than Jack did at that time .
“ What Jack liked at training was playing in the mini bounce games we had .
But Callum realised the value of the other stuff , the physical exercises and the tactical sessions .
He was brilliant to work with .
“ What probably impressed me more than anything was his attitude , especially since he ’ d moved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from home for the first time .
“ Like most youngsters , he hit a dip in form during the second half of that season and he lost the jersey for a few weeks but he just worked even harder to get back into the team .
“ It meant a lot to me to have such a brilliant and determined young player I could rely on .
“ Some guys go out on loan and they ’ re not too bothered about what happens to their new club because they know they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ old one .
However , Callum and Jack weren ’ t like that .
“ They considered themselves Notts County players and they didn ’ t want a relegation on their CV and I don ’ t think I ’ ve ever seen anyone quite as engaged in avoiding that as Callum was .
We ’ d never have stayed up without them .
”

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A former manager of Jack Grealish has compared the Aston Villa captain to a current Celtic player.
Grealish has risen to the prestigious title of Villa skipper, but the 24-year-old had to work his way up and earn his place before taking on the role.
Before he broke into the Villa first-team, Grealish had a loan spell at Notts County in 2013/14, with the Magpies then in League One.
During his stint at Meadow Lane, Grealish 40 appearances where he scored five goals under the guidance of two managers.
Chris Kiwomya was in charge at the start of the campaign, before Shaun Derry took over in November of that season.
Derry has compared Grealish to another former Notts loanee, Callum McGregor, who currently plays for Scottish Premiership side Celtic.
McGregor was also on loan at Meadow Lane, and Derry has compared the two players’ work rates and personalities, both on and off the field.
“They were very different players and personalities,” Derry told the Scottish Sun.
“Jack was a chirpy kid while Callum was much quieter and very respectful towards me.
Claret & Blue podcast Have you tried our Claret & Blue podcast out? Claret & Blue is our expanded look at everything Aston Villa - and you can find it on iTunes, Spotify, and YouTube, as well as your podcast service of choice. Our writers will bring you the latest from Villa Park in their own unique style, taking a deeper look at the Villans while having a lot of fun along the way. What can you expect? Well,analysis, news, interviews and debate along with, yes, a fair amount of nonsense! That's not all though, you can find the podcast on Twitter here, and as a newsletter which you can subscribe to here. In our newsletter you'll get original articles like this and exclusive interviews before anyone else has access. What are you waiting for?
"Being a couple of years older, he also understood the game a little more than Jack did.
“Callum also had a greater appreciation of the game than Jack did at that time.
“What Jack liked at training was playing in the mini bounce games we had. But Callum realised the value of the other stuff, the physical exercises and the tactical sessions. He was brilliant to work with.
“What probably impressed me more than anything was his attitude, especially since he’d moved to a different country and was away from home for the first time.
“Like most youngsters, he hit a dip in form during the second half of that season and he lost the jersey for a few weeks but he just worked even harder to get back into the team.
“It meant a lot to me to have such a brilliant and determined young player I could rely on.
“Some guys go out on loan and they’re not too bothered about what happens to their new club because they know they’ll be going back to their old one. However, Callum and Jack weren’t like that.
“They considered themselves Notts County players and they didn’t want a relegation on their CV and I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone quite as engaged in avoiding that as Callum was. We’d never have stayed up without them.”


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Birmingham City fans react to key league update

The current Championship campaign for Birmingham City has been met with yet another delay .
Earlier today , the EFL released a statement regarding the conclusion of the Championship season , which has now been suspended indefinitely : '' As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic the EFL , Premier League , FA and Barclays FA Women ’ s Super League and FA Women ’ s Championship has today collectively agreed to postpone its football competitions until it is safe to resume .
`` Football is committed in supporting the Government ’ s efforts in tackling the COVID-19 outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this country .
It is clearly something that simply can not happen at this time .
The thoughts of everyone associated with the EFL and its member Clubs are with anyone currently affected by the Coronavirus .
`` The situation will be kept under constant review with matches only returning at an appropriate point and based on the latest guidance provided by the relevant Government departments and health authorities .
`` The EFL also notes and appreciates the decision taken today by the Premier League in respect of the short term financial relief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the advancement of solidarity payments , parachute payments and Academy Grants .
These actions will have a positive impact on individual Clubs across our three divisions at a difficult and uncertain time . ''
Here 's what Birmingham City fans made of this latest update : Mark Jackson : So they had a meeting to say what we already knew that they can ’ t go back until it ’ s safe .
Paul : Just end all the leagues now as they stand .
We ’ re safe , so see you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : So , nothing new there then !
Lucy Goodwin : I am so much missing you Birmingham City !
Sean O Reilly : Should be done in alphabetical order !
@ AccessiBlues : We just want everyone to be and stay safe .
Whilst we are missing the social interaction football provides , everybody 's health and safety far outweighs the need to interact in person .
Craig : What was the point of the meeting , when outcome obvious ?
@ Parkoblue : Well talk about stating the obvious !

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The current Championship campaign for Birmingham City has been met with yet another delay.
Earlier today, the EFL released a statement regarding the conclusion of the Championship season, which has now been suspended indefinitely:
"As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic the EFL, Premier League, FA and Barclays FA Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship has today collectively agreed to postpone its football competitions until it is safe to resume.
"Football is committed in supporting the Government’s efforts in tackling the COVID-19 outbreak and the staging of football matches in this country. It is clearly something that simply cannot happen at this time. The thoughts of everyone associated with the EFL and its member Clubs are with anyone currently affected by the Coronavirus.
"The situation will be kept under constant review with matches only returning at an appropriate point and based on the latest guidance provided by the relevant Government departments and health authorities.
"The EFL also notes and appreciates the decision taken today by the Premier League in respect of the short term financial relief it is to provide EFL Clubs through the advancement of solidarity payments, parachute payments and Academy Grants. These actions will have a positive impact on individual Clubs across our three divisions at a difficult and uncertain time."
Here's what Birmingham City fans made of this latest update:
Mark Jackson: So they had a meeting to say what we already knew that they can’t go back until it’s safe.
Paul: Just end all the leagues now as they stand. We’re safe, so see you soon, Aston Villa.
Matthew Tomkins : So, nothing new there then!
Lucy Goodwin: I am so much missing you Birmingham City!
Sean O Reilly: Should be done in alphabetical order!
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
@AccessiBlues: We just want everyone to be and stay safe. Whilst we are missing the social interaction football provides, everybody's health and safety far outweighs the need to interact in person.
Craig: What was the point of the meeting, when outcome obvious?
@Parkoblue: Well talk about stating the obvious!


birminghammail--2020-04-03--The unprecedented rule change that will interest Wolves fans

It looks like Wolverhampton Wanderers fans will be able to watch their team live on television more often this season , if and when it resumes .
The Premier League announced on Friday that the current campaign has been suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak .
The campaign will not resume before the beginning of May , at the very earliest , should it be deemed safe to do so .
According to a report in The Times , the usual restrictions which prevent 3pm kick-offs to be streamed live on television will be lifted for the remainder of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UEFA following requests from the English and Scottish FAs .
The report adds that the move is a “ strong indication ” that matches will be played behind closed doors , if and when the campaign does resume .
It is also stated that Premier League matches kicking off at 3pm on Saturdays would now be able to be shown by broadcasters Sky and BT Sport , as well as FA Cup games by rights holders the BBC and BT Sport .
The rule preventing 3pm matches from being televised has been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to protect attendances at matches and encourage amateur players to take part in games on Saturday afternoons .
The Uefa regulation was updated on Friday and says : “ Taking into account the current exceptional circumstances , Uefa has lifted the ‘ blocked hours ’ protection granted to the England and Scotland for the remainder of the 2019-20 season football season , following requests from the relevant national associations as a result of measures taken in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic .
”

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It looks like Wolverhampton Wanderers fans will be able to watch their team live on television more often this season, if and when it resumes.
The Premier League announced on Friday that the current campaign has been suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The campaign will not resume before the beginning of May, at the very earliest, should it be deemed safe to do so.
According to a report in The Times, the usual restrictions which prevent 3pm kick-offs to be streamed live on television will be lifted for the remainder of the season, after being confirmed by UEFA following requests from the English and Scottish FAs.
The report adds that the move is a “strong indication” that matches will be played behind closed doors, if and when the campaign does resume.
It is also stated that Premier League matches kicking off at 3pm on Saturdays would now be able to be shown by broadcasters Sky and BT Sport, as well as FA Cup games by rights holders the BBC and BT Sport.
The rule preventing 3pm matches from being televised has been in place since the 1950s, in order to protect attendances at matches and encourage amateur players to take part in games on Saturday afternoons.
The Uefa regulation was updated on Friday and says: “Taking into account the current exceptional circumstances, Uefa has lifted the ‘blocked hours’ protection granted to the England and Scotland for the remainder of the 2019-20 season football season, following requests from the relevant national associations as a result of measures taken in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic.”


birminghammail--2020-04-03--Firearms, weapons and drugs recovered during police swoops across Midlands

Police officers have recovered a haul of deadly weapons and arrested suspects following a number of swoops in 24 hours .
In the first incident , a man tried to flee after officers stopped a Peugeot with cloned plates in Bow Street , Ladywood on Thursday ( April 2 ) .
During a scuffle , a 28-year-old dropped his rucksack , containing a sawn off shot gun and cannabis .
He was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle , possession of a firearm and possession of cannabis and remains in police custody today ( 3 April ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ searched a property on Summer Road , Erdington , after receiving intelligence that a suspect had purchased blank firearms online .
They discovered two blank firing pistols along with an antique replica rifle and a quantity of blank firing rounds during the raid .
Chief Inspector Phil Cape from the force Gangs team , said : “ This is a great result overnight which has resulted in removing a number of potentially deadly weapons from our streets .
“ It also highlights that we rely on community intelligence to provide information to us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Although two of these weapons were imitation firearms , people would undoubtedly believe this to be the genuine article if they were faced with it .
“ These guns will be sent for forensic analysis that will be carried out by ballistics experts .
“ Weapons like this are illegal in the UK and anyone in possession of a blank firing pistol may find themselves being arrested and potentially jailed .
”

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Police officers have recovered a haul of deadly weapons and arrested suspects following a number of swoops in 24 hours.
In the first incident, a man tried to flee after officers stopped a Peugeot with cloned plates in Bow Street, Ladywood on Thursday (April 2).
During a scuffle, a 28-year-old dropped his rucksack, containing a sawn off shot gun and cannabis.
(Image: WMP)
He was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a firearm and possession of cannabis and remains in police custody today (3 April).
In a separate incident, officers searched a property on Summer Road, Erdington, after receiving intelligence that a suspect had purchased blank firearms online.
They discovered two blank firing pistols along with an antique replica rifle and a quantity of blank firing rounds during the raid.
Chief Inspector Phil Cape from the force Gangs team, said: “This is a great result overnight which has resulted in removing a number of potentially deadly weapons from our streets.
“It also highlights that we rely on community intelligence to provide information to us and that we will take action.
“Although two of these weapons were imitation firearms, people would undoubtedly believe this to be the genuine article if they were faced with it.
“These guns will be sent for forensic analysis that will be carried out by ballistics experts.
“Weapons like this are illegal in the UK and anyone in possession of a blank firing pistol may find themselves being arrested and potentially jailed.”


birminghammail--2020-04-03--The key TV ruling change that will delight Aston Villa fans

It looks like Aston Villa fans will be able to watch their team live on television more often this season , if and when it resumes .
The Premier League announced on Friday that the current campaign has been suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak .
The campaign will not resume before the beginning of May , at the very earliest , should it be deemed safe to do so .
According to a report in The Times , the usual restrictions which prevent 3pm kick-offs to be streamed live on television will be lifted for the remainder of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UEFA following requests from the English and Scottish FAs .
The report adds that the move is a “ strong indication ” that matches will be played behind closed doors , if and when the campaign does resume .
It is also stated that Premier League matches kicking off at 3pm on Saturdays would now be able to be shown by broadcasters Sky and BT Sport , as well as FA Cup games by rights holders the BBC and BT Sport .
The rule preventing 3pm matches from being televised has been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to protect attendances at matches and encourage amateur players to take part in games on Saturday afternoons .
The Uefa regulation was updated on Friday and says : “ Taking into account the current exceptional circumstances , Uefa has lifted the ‘ blocked hours ’ protection granted to the England and Scotland for the remainder of the 2019-20 season football season , following requests from the relevant national associations as a result of measures taken in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic .
”

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Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
It looks like Aston Villa fans will be able to watch their team live on television more often this season, if and when it resumes.
The Premier League announced on Friday that the current campaign has been suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The campaign will not resume before the beginning of May, at the very earliest, should it be deemed safe to do so.
According to a report in The Times, the usual restrictions which prevent 3pm kick-offs to be streamed live on television will be lifted for the remainder of the season, after being confirmed by UEFA following requests from the English and Scottish FAs.
The report adds that the move is a “strong indication” that matches will be played behind closed doors, if and when the campaign does resume.
It is also stated that Premier League matches kicking off at 3pm on Saturdays would now be able to be shown by broadcasters Sky and BT Sport, as well as FA Cup games by rights holders the BBC and BT Sport.
The rule preventing 3pm matches from being televised has been in place since the 1950s, in order to protect attendances at matches and encourage amateur players to take part in games on Saturday afternoons.
The Uefa regulation was updated on Friday and says: “Taking into account the current exceptional circumstances, Uefa has lifted the ‘blocked hours’ protection granted to the England and Scotland for the remainder of the 2019-20 season football season, following requests from the relevant national associations as a result of measures taken in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic.”