birminghammail--2020-05-26--FOUR years disruption and destruction of ancient woodland in huge M42 scheme

Major changes to a Solihull motorway junction - which critics fear will cause years of disruption and `` destroy '' ancient woodland - have got the go-ahead .
Work on the £282 million scheme , which aims to ease congestion at the M42 's notoriously busy Junction 6 , could get underway in a matter of months .
But the four-year project , which has now been rubber-stamped by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps , has come under-fire from both residents and conservationists .
They fear the impact of a construction compound on the historic village of Bickenhill and the loss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aspbury 's Copse , near Catherine de Barnes .
Reacting to the news , Woodland Trust campaigner Nicole Hillier said : `` This is more bad news for the environment .
`` At a time of climate and nature emergency we should be protecting our rare , irreplaceable habitats not destroying them .
`` Ancient woodland has laid undisturbed for centuries , evolving into a complex ecosystem supporting thousands of species .
It can not be moved , it can not be recreated .
Once gone , it ’ s gone forever .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ see Highways England commit to doing everything it can to avoid direct loss or damage to ancient woodland on future schemes and we will continue to lobby them directly for this . ''
Cllr Bob Sleigh ( Con , Bickenhill ) said while there would be `` inevitable disruption '' it was vital that there was constant dialogue with residents to minimise the impact on the community .
He said that discussions on the detail of when work would be taking place and how construction traffic travelled around the area would be key @ @ @ @ @ @ @ example of HS2 and set up a hotline for local people .
`` So for instance if lorries start driving down roads where perhaps they should n't we can report it , '' said Cllr Sleigh .
`` The important thing is that we know who we can contact . ''
On the concerns about the copse , he said : `` If we lose any woodland we need to make sure it 's more than adequately compensated .
`` When it 's finished we need to make sure [ the scheme ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scar on the landscape . ''
Highways England had first set out its plans in early 2019 , with the Planning Inspectorate receiving various comments from the local community in the months that followed .
The final say on whether to proceed was in the hands of Mr Shapps - a departure from the process for a normal planning decision , where it would be the council which made the call .
Jonathan Pizzey , Highways England 's senior project manager , said he was `` delighted '' by the cabinet minister 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a major step forward in developing a scheme to unlock congestion and promote economic growth in the West Midlands , '' he said .
`` The M42 is an important strategic route .
Upgrading Junction 6 will increase capacity , enhance safety and support planned development , improving access to HS2 , the National Exhibition Centre ( NEC ) , Birmingham Airport and future developments such as UK Central Solihull . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from MySolihull straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from MySolihull straight to your inbox
Major changes to a Solihull motorway junction - which critics fear will cause years of disruption and "destroy" ancient woodland - have got the go-ahead.
Work on the £282 million scheme, which aims to ease congestion at the M42's notoriously busy Junction 6, could get underway in a matter of months.
But the four-year project, which has now been rubber-stamped by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, has come under-fire from both residents and conservationists.
They fear the impact of a construction compound on the historic village of Bickenhill and the loss of" irreplaceable" wildlife habitat at Aspbury's Copse, near Catherine de Barnes.
Reacting to the news, Woodland Trust campaigner Nicole Hillier said: "This is more bad news for the environment.
"At a time of climate and nature emergency we should be protecting our rare, irreplaceable habitats not destroying them.
"Ancient woodland has laid undisturbed for centuries, evolving into a complex ecosystem supporting thousands of species. It cannot be moved, it cannot be recreated. Once gone, it’s gone forever.
(Image: Google Street View)
"Moving forward we would want to see Highways England commit to doing everything it can to avoid direct loss or damage to ancient woodland on future schemes and we will continue to lobby them directly for this."
Cllr Bob Sleigh (Con, Bickenhill) said while there would be "inevitable disruption" it was vital that there was constant dialogue with residents to minimise the impact on the community.
He said that discussions on the detail of when work would be taking place and how construction traffic travelled around the area would be key - suggesting that contractors should follow the example of HS2 and set up a hotline for local people.
"So for instance if lorries start driving down roads where perhaps they shouldn't we can report it," said Cllr Sleigh.
"The important thing is that we know who we can contact."
On the concerns about the copse, he said: "If we lose any woodland we need to make sure it's more than adequately compensated.
"When it's finished we need to make sure [the scheme] blends in and it isn't a scar on the landscape."
Highways England had first set out its plans in early 2019, with the Planning Inspectorate receiving various comments from the local community in the months that followed.
The final say on whether to proceed was in the hands of Mr Shapps - a departure from the process for a normal planning decision, where it would be the council which made the call.
Key elements of the M42 upgrade: A new dual carriageway between the Clock Interchange and a new junction on the M42, which will lie north of Solihull Road. This will be designed for traffic travelling northbound to exit the motorway and motorists heading southbound to join the M42.
The new dual carriageway would west of Bickenhill and for the most part below ground level. It is proposed to pass beneath the B4438 (Catherine de Barnes Lane), at both the north west and south west corners of Bickenhill.
The Clock Interchange will be upgraded, as well as the A45 between said interchange and the M42.
Free flow links will be introduced around the north west and the north east of Junction 6.
Alterations will be made on the south east side of Junction 6, the A45 westbound (east of the motorway junction) and the junction's southbound slip roads to ease congestion.
Jonathan Pizzey, Highways England's senior project manager, said he was "delighted" by the cabinet minister's decision.
"[It] represents a major step forward in developing a scheme to unlock congestion and promote economic growth in the West Midlands," he said.
"The M42 is an important strategic route. Upgrading Junction 6 will increase capacity, enhance safety and support planned development, improving access to HS2, the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham Airport and future developments such as UK Central Solihull."
The news has also been welcomed by Birmingham Airport and the Urban Growth Company, which is helping drive investment opportunities in Solihull.
Jonathan Bretherton, the organisation's managing director, said: "As well as supporting much better connectivity to and from the NEC and Birmingham Airport, this upgraded infrastructure will also support the journeys of the thousands of people who will be living and working at Arden Cross, the new, mixed-use development which will be home to the HS2 Interchange Station."


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Brummies needed for study into coronavirus

A nationwide study is calling on Birmingham for help to try to find out why some people are more affected by COVID-19 than others .
The Covidence UK study is backed by celebrities including England rugby legend Brian Moore and actor Nitin Ganatra , best known for playing Masood Ahmed on EastEnders .
It launched on May 1 but scientists have so far only recruited 25 per cent of the 12,000 people needed - and they are in desperate need of Birmingham ’ s help .
Here is how to get involved .
Covidence UK is being carried out by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health specialists and health economists based at universities in England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
Led by Queen Mary University of London , it aims to recruit as diverse a group of volunteers as possible - including Brummies .
To take part you need to be aged 16 or over , from across the UK .
The study will run for up to five years .
Initially you will fill out a one-time online questionnaire - it should take around 30 minutes .
You 'll be asked for contact details @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , lifestyle , diet , use of dietary supplements and quality of life as well as your mental and physical health .
Keep hospital letters handy , as you 'll be asked for details about medical conditions .
Then you will be contacted every month by email to check if you have developed any symptoms of coronavirus , and asked follow-up questions about general health and social circumstances .
Experts are desperate to feature those over-represented by coronavirus infections and deaths , including ethnic minority communities and the over-60s .
They are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with and without underlying conditions such as diabetes , lung disease , heart disease and high blood pressure .
Birmingham hospital consultant Neeraj Bhala , 40 , has signed up to join the study .
`` I only found out about the study because my wife mentioned it to me , '' he said .
`` It is a unique experience .
At this stage I fill in online questionnaires , they roughly take half an hour - it 's straightforward to do .
`` You do it on your phone .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the website .
`` It is almost like taking part in a survey .
They ask you different details about yourself .
I did it in front of the television in half an hour . ''
Mr Bhala is a consultant physician and gastroenterologist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital .
A total of 34 per cent of confirmed COVID-19 cases and 32 per cent of deaths in intensive care are among people from ethnic minority backgrounds , the Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre , covering England has revealed .
`` I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being involved in the study , '' he said .
`` Ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 - they are trying to research to understand why .
`` But they are underrepresented in a lot of the research taking place .
Whether that be in medical trials or other illnesses .
`` We need people who are from these backgrounds to sign up .
The Covidence study is led by Adrian Martineau , professor of respiratory infection and immunity at Queen Mary University of London .
“ We know people with certain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of coronavirus disease , '' he said , `` however , we don ’ t know why this is .
`` Is it something to do with the underlying condition itself ?
`` Could particular medications affect the risk ?
`` Or are lifestyle factors such as smoking or different dietary patterns which tend to go along with some of these conditions important ?
`` The answers to these questions could help us to devise new strategies to reduce infection risk , while we are waiting for an effective vaccine to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our 12,000 target , particularly if a significant proportion of participants have already had a positive test for COVID-19 , then we should be able to get some early results in the next few weeks .
“ We also hope to understand why the severity of the disease differs so much across individuals , with some having no symptoms to otherwise healthy young people – albeit in small numbers – dying from the disease.
” More details on the study and instructions to sign up can be found at www.qmul.ac.uk/covidence .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A nationwide study is calling on Birmingham for help to try to find out why some people are more affected by COVID-19 than others.
The Covidence UK study is backed by celebrities including England rugby legend Brian Moore and actor Nitin Ganatra, best known for playing Masood Ahmed on EastEnders.
It launched on May 1 but scientists have so far only recruited 25 per cent of the 12,000 people needed - and they are in desperate need of Birmingham’s help.
Here is how to get involved.
(Image: Copyright Unknown)
Covidence UK is being carried out by teams of doctors, scientists, public health specialists and health economists based at universities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Led by Queen Mary University of London, it aims to recruit as diverse a group of volunteers as possible - including Brummies.
How the COVIDENCE UK study works To take part you need to be aged 16 or over, from across the UK. The study will run for up to five years. Initially you will fill out a one-time online questionnaire - it should take around 30 minutes. You'll be asked for contact details, information about your job, housing, lifestyle, diet, use of dietary supplements and quality of life as well as your mental and physical health. Keep hospital letters handy, as you'll be asked for details about medical conditions. Then you will be contacted every month by email to check if you have developed any symptoms of coronavirus, and asked follow-up questions about general health and social circumstances.
Experts are desperate to feature those over-represented by coronavirus infections and deaths, including ethnic minority communities and the over-60s.
They are also keen to include mixtures of people both with and without underlying conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, heart disease and high blood pressure.
(Image: Dr Neeraj Bhala)
Birmingham hospital consultant Neeraj Bhala, 40, has signed up to join the study.
"I only found out about the study because my wife mentioned it to me," he said.
"It is a unique experience. At this stage I fill in online questionnaires, they roughly take half an hour - it's straightforward to do.
"You do it on your phone. You basically just click on a link on the website.
"It is almost like taking part in a survey. They ask you different details about yourself. I did it in front of the television in half an hour."
Mr Bhala is a consultant physician and gastroenterologist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
A total of 34 per cent of confirmed COVID-19 cases and 32 per cent of deaths in intensive care are among people from ethnic minority backgrounds, the Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre, covering England has revealed.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
"I am passionate about ethnic minorities in the UK being involved in the study," he said.
"Ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 - they are trying to research to understand why.
"But they are underrepresented in a lot of the research taking place. Whether that be in medical trials or other illnesses.
"We need people who are from these backgrounds to sign up.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The Covidence study is led by Adrian Martineau, professor of respiratory infection and immunity at Queen Mary University of London.
“We know people with certain medical conditions seem to be at increased risk of coronavirus disease," he said, "however, we don’t know why this is.
"Is it something to do with the underlying condition itself?
"Could particular medications affect the risk?
"Or are lifestyle factors such as smoking or different dietary patterns which tend to go along with some of these conditions important?
"The answers to these questions could help us to devise new strategies to reduce infection risk, while we are waiting for an effective vaccine to come along.”
“If we can reach our 12,000 target, particularly if a significant proportion of participants have already had a positive test for COVID-19, then we should be able to get some early results in the next few weeks.
“We also hope to understand why the severity of the disease differs so much across individuals, with some having no symptoms to otherwise healthy young people – albeit in small numbers – dying from the disease.”
More details on the study and instructions to sign up can be found at www.qmul.ac.uk/covidence.


birminghammail--2020-05-26--"Couldn't handle it" - Gabby Agbonlahor mocks Man United's Gary Neville

Former Aston Villa striker has repeated a claim revolving around Manchester United legend Gary Neville .
Speaking on ThreeSixtyTV 's podcast , Villa icon Agbonlahor opened up on a number of topics , and did n't hold back when asked who he thought was the most overrated defender he played against .
`` Played against ?
Overrated , '' asked Gabby , speaking to host Fuad Cadani , before pausing , '' You know what ?
I 'd say Gary Neville , '' claimed Gabby after reflecting .
`` Whenever I played against United , I always targeted his side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store '' Basically , because Rio was so good , I 'd always run to Neville .
You know what I mean ?
In that defense , Neville 's the one I 'm going to pick on .
`` He could never handle that stop and turn .
He could n't handle it .
Hopefully he sees this ! ''
This is n't the first time Agbonlahor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In BirminghamLive 's Claret & Blue podcast , Agbonlahor admitted that he 'd strike at slower players , using his legendary burst of speed for success .
`` My idol was Thierry Henry so I always wanted to be in that left-hand channel , all my runs would be in that channel .
So I always liked to play against Gary Neville , use that channel .
`` I liked playing against Gary Caldwell .
He was a great player but he was so slow .
I always liked to pick on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do my research and think who is the slowest player on their team ?
That ’ s the one I ’ m going to go on .
Big strikers like to pick on the weakest defender , I picked on the slowest .
I ’ d be like wow , he ’ s not that quick and be over to him straight away . ''
There 's a bit of history between the two - and not just on the pitch .
Neville himself picked out Agbonlahor 's performance as a sticking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We looked at Gabriel Agbonlahor , who ’ s a centre forward , '' said Neville when analysing Villa 's performance against Tottenham in 2015 .
`` I had to check and thought it wasn ’ t right , but he had eight touches in the first half – the lowest touches of any player this season in the Premier League – and two of them were kick-offs !
`` I ’ m concerned a little bit , that he ’ s not got a touch anywhere near the 18-yard box , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ball in to the centre forward , they ’ ve got to get hold of the ball somehow .
You ’ ve absolutely no chance if you don ’ t get your centre forward involved in the game .
I mean , eight touches and two of them being the kick-off is…worrying . ''
Gabby 's having a few more touches now at Neville 's expense , but in five appearances , unfortunately Villa could n't better Neville 's Red Devils despite Agbonlahor scoring twice .
You can listen to the full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & Blue , our podcast and YouTube channel ?
What are you waiting for ?
!
Claret & Blue : An Aston Villa Podcast is available via the following platforms , subscribe and download here : iTunes , Spotify and Acast .
Mat Kendrick , Ashley Preece , Dan Rolinson and James Rushton provide a fun-filled mixture of analysis , interviews , debate and , yes , a fair amount of nonsense !
BirminghamLive has also launched its new YouTube channel to run alongside Claret & Blue .
We 're also on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure you subscribe - by clicking here .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Former Aston Villa striker has repeated a claim revolving around Manchester United legend Gary Neville.
Speaking on ThreeSixtyTV's podcast, Villa icon Agbonlahor opened up on a number of topics, and didn't hold back when asked who he thought was the most overrated defender he played against.
"Played against? Overrated," asked Gabby, speaking to host Fuad Cadani, before pausing,
"You know what? I'd say Gary Neville," claimed Gabby after reflecting.
"Whenever I played against United, I always targeted his side of the pitch on purpose.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
"Basically, because Rio was so good, I'd always run to Neville. You know what I mean? In that defense, Neville's the one I'm going to pick on.
"He could never handle that stop and turn. He couldn't handle it. Hopefully he sees this!"
This isn't the first time Agbonlahor has 'picked on' Neville, though.
In BirminghamLive's Claret & Blue podcast, Agbonlahor admitted that he'd strike at slower players, using his legendary burst of speed for success.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"My idol was Thierry Henry so I always wanted to be in that left-hand channel, all my runs would be in that channel. So I always liked to play against Gary Neville, use that channel.
"I liked playing against Gary Caldwell. He was a great player but he was so slow. I always liked to pick on the slowest defender.
"I used to do my research and think who is the slowest player on their team? That’s the one I’m going to go on. Big strikers like to pick on the weakest defender, I picked on the slowest. I’d be like wow, he’s not that quick and be over to him straight away."
There's a bit of history between the two - and not just on the pitch.
Neville himself picked out Agbonlahor's performance as a sticking point during Villa's relegation season.
"We looked at Gabriel Agbonlahor, who’s a centre forward," said Neville when analysing Villa's performance against Tottenham in 2015.
"I had to check and thought it wasn’t right, but he had eight touches in the first half – the lowest touches of any player this season in the Premier League – and two of them were kick-offs!
"I’m concerned a little bit, that he’s not got a touch anywhere near the 18-yard box, so they’ve got to get the ball in to the centre forward, they’ve got to get hold of the ball somehow. You’ve absolutely no chance if you don’t get your centre forward involved in the game. I mean, eight touches and two of them being the kick-off is…worrying."
Gabby's having a few more touches now at Neville's expense, but in five appearances, unfortunately Villa couldn't better Neville's Red Devils despite Agbonlahor scoring twice.
You can listen to the full podcast here.
ave you tried Claret & Blue, our podcast and YouTube channel?
What are you waiting for?!
Claret & Blue: An Aston Villa Podcast is available via the following platforms, subscribe and download here: iTunes, Spotify and Acast.
Mat Kendrick, Ashley Preece, Dan Rolinson and James Rushton provide a fun-filled mixture of analysis, interviews, debate and, yes, a fair amount of nonsense!
BirminghamLive has also launched its new YouTube channel to run alongside Claret & Blue. We're also on Twitter.
You can view our page - make sure you subscribe - by clicking here.


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Virus being 'used to push anti-car agenda' in Birmingham

Birmingham City Council is using the coronavirus pandemic to further its anti-motorist agenda , a councillor has claimed .
And he plans on writing to the Transport Secretary to oppose the cabinet 's attempts to have the speed on all residential streets in Birmingham reduced to 20mph .
Cllr Meirion Jenkins ( Con , Sutton Mere Green ) urged the cabinet to `` remember that we are a motor trade city and that many hard-working people in our city rely upon the motor trade to make their living '' .
Cllr Jenkins was writing in response to a letter from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Grant Schapps , in which he requested that all residential streets be made 20mph by default , covering approximately 90 per cent of the city 's roads .
However Cllr Jenkins claims that there is 'no evidence ' that 20mph speed limits are effective , insisting that the money to turn these roads into 20mph zones could be better spent elsewhere .
`` I think it is quite wrong that you should use this period of national crisis to promote your anti-car and anti-motorist views to the detriment of our city , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time particularly , when the Prime Minister made clear that people should use their cars for the sake of public safety , you should remember that we are a motor trade city and that many hard-working people in our city rely upon the motor trade to make their living .
`` The Department for Transport released a report in 2019 that showed there is no road safety benefit from these schemes .
In addition , they have negligible impact on modal shift or traffic speeds .
`` The evidence showed that significant sums @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 mph schemes , money which could have been much better spent on more effective road engineering or education .
`` I shall be writing to the Transport Secretary to oppose this request . ''
However Cllr Zaffar has hit back at the claims , stating that the proposals are 'pro-people ' , not 'anti-car ' .
`` Our action here is entirely consistent with the Government ’ s recent call for local authorities to take action that makes it easier for people to get around by walking and cycling , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ profession , '' he said .
`` Promoting road safety is not anti-car , it is pro-people .
Reducing average speeds is proven to reduce the number of collisions as well as the severity of those which do occur , anything that contributes towards this objective should be welcomed .
`` Our request for DfT support to implement the council ’ s policy of 20mph speed limits in residential areas in this way would enable it to be delivered quicker and more cost-effectively , freeing up resource that can be used towards other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` There is clear public support for 20mph speed limits , with surveys consistently showing between 70 per cent & 80 per cent of people in favour of this . ''
And Cllr Zaffar was backed by Cllr Paulette Hamilton , cabinet member for health and social care , during last week 's West Midlands briefing .
She said : “ I am absolutely in support of this .
What we have to remember is many people don ’ t have cars and cars can not continue to rule the roads .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the short term they would prefer us to use cars , what we need to remember is - we will get out of this .
“ When we put people back in cars , it becomes impossible to get them out of cars .
As a city , we have been working towards using bicycles , walking , using green space , having better air to breathe .
“ I don ’ t believe because of an emergency that we fall away from all of that .
“ I truly believe we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cars . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Birmingham City Council is using the coronavirus pandemic to further its anti-motorist agenda, a councillor has claimed.
And he plans on writing to the Transport Secretary to oppose the cabinet's attempts to have the speed on all residential streets in Birmingham reduced to 20mph.
Cllr Meirion Jenkins (Con, Sutton Mere Green) urged the cabinet to "remember that we are a motor trade city and that many hard-working people in our city rely upon the motor trade to make their living".
Cllr Jenkins was writing in response to a letter from transport leader Cllr Waseem Zaffar to Transport Secretary Grant Schapps, in which he requested that all residential streets be made 20mph by default, covering approximately 90 per cent of the city's roads.
However Cllr Jenkins claims that there is 'no evidence' that 20mph speed limits are effective, insisting that the money to turn these roads into 20mph zones could be better spent elsewhere.
"I think it is quite wrong that you should use this period of national crisis to promote your anti-car and anti-motorist views to the detriment of our city," he wrote.
"At this time particularly, when the Prime Minister made clear that people should use their cars for the sake of public safety, you should remember that we are a motor trade city and that many hard-working people in our city rely upon the motor trade to make their living.
"The Department for Transport released a report in 2019 that showed there is no road safety benefit from these schemes. In addition, they have negligible impact on modal shift or traffic speeds.
"The evidence showed that significant sums of money have been wasted on implementing 20 mph schemes, money which could have been much better spent on more effective road engineering or education.
"I shall be writing to the Transport Secretary to oppose this request."
However Cllr Zaffar has hit back at the claims, stating that the proposals are 'pro-people', not 'anti-car'.
"Our action here is entirely consistent with the Government’s recent call for local authorities to take action that makes it easier for people to get around by walking and cycling, as well as having received backing from the medical profession," he said.
"Promoting road safety is not anti-car, it is pro-people. Reducing average speeds is proven to reduce the number of collisions as well as the severity of those which do occur, anything that contributes towards this objective should be welcomed.
"Our request for DfT support to implement the council’s policy of 20mph speed limits in residential areas in this way would enable it to be delivered quicker and more cost-effectively, freeing up resource that can be used towards other measures such as education or engineering.
"There is clear public support for 20mph speed limits, with surveys consistently showing between 70 per cent & 80 per cent of people in favour of this."
And Cllr Zaffar was backed by Cllr Paulette Hamilton, cabinet member for health and social care, during last week's West Midlands briefing.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
She said: “I am absolutely in support of this. What we have to remember is many people don’t have cars and cars cannot continue to rule the roads.
“Even though the Government has said in the short term they would prefer us to use cars, what we need to remember is - we will get out of this.
“When we put people back in cars, it becomes impossible to get them out of cars. As a city, we have been working towards using bicycles, walking, using green space, having better air to breathe.
“I don’t believe because of an emergency that we fall away from all of that.
“I truly believe we have got to encourage people out of the cars."


birminghammail--2020-05-26--The shopping habits set to be banned when stores re-open from June 15

Shopping habits we 've spent decades doing will have to be forgotten in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic .
That 's the message from the government who have said shoppers will need to adapt amid the Covid-19 health crisis .
Shops have closed and remained shuttered since March 23 , when Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered a nationwide lockdown .
And the PM 's stance is set to last until June 15 , when non-essential stores like fashion retailers and bookmakers will re-open .
Charity shops , mobile phone stores , museums , galleries and tourism sites are set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start operating again .
From June 1 , the PM confirmed shops such as car showrooms will be allowed to re-open across the country , with all non-essential stores set to be back operating by mid-June .
But Michael Gove has warned shoppers will need to change their habits as the health crisis continues .
Mr Gove appeared on the BBC this morning , and told customers across the UK they wold need to `` exercise restraint '' by not trying on clothing .
Testing goods ahead of purchase will also be banned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` It 's also the case that we need to ensure that some of the shopping habits people may have grown used to in the pre-Covid days are habits that we exercise a degree of restraint on .
`` So when it comes to touching and testing goods , when it comes to trying on clothing , when it comes to trying make-up and so on , that all of us exercise restraint in not doing that and recognising that as these stores reopen , it is a new normal , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are a wider range of goods and will also ensure the economy can return to a new normal , that is absolutely vital for people 's jobs . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Shopping habits we've spent decades doing will have to be forgotten in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
That's the message from the government who have said shoppers will need to adapt amid the Covid-19 health crisis.
Shops have closed and remained shuttered since March 23, when Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered a nationwide lockdown.
And the PM's stance is set to last until June 15, when non-essential stores like fashion retailers and bookmakers will re-open.
Charity shops, mobile phone stores, museums, galleries and tourism sites are set to be given the green light to start operating again.
From June 1, the PM confirmed shops such as car showrooms will be allowed to re-open across the country, with all non-essential stores set to be back operating by mid-June.
But Michael Gove has warned shoppers will need to change their habits as the health crisis continues.
Mr Gove appeared on the BBC this morning, and told customers across the UK they wold need to "exercise restraint" by not trying on clothing.
Testing goods ahead of purchase will also be banned.
He told BBC Breakfast on Tuesday: "It's also the case that we need to ensure that some of the shopping habits people may have grown used to in the pre-Covid days are habits that we exercise a degree of restraint on.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"So when it comes to touching and testing goods, when it comes to trying on clothing, when it comes to trying make-up and so on, that all of us exercise restraint in not doing that and recognising that as these stores reopen, it is a new normal, but it will allow us to ensure there are a wider range of goods and will also ensure the economy can return to a new normal, that is absolutely vital for people's jobs."


birminghammail--2020-05-26--St Giles Hospice launches virtual support service for bereaved families

Bereaved people in Tamworth are meeting online to support each other thanks to a new service offered by St Giles Hospice .
St Giles has launched three virtual bereavement help points which provide information , companionship and practical and emotional support using video-conferencing technology .
It comes after their face-to-face services had to close temporarily because of the safety measures taken to combat the spread of the coronavirus .
St Giles Hospice Community Engagement Manager Ian Leech said the idea for the virtual help points came about very quickly after the lockdown began .
He said : “ We knew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points are in providing an anchor point for people ’ s weeks in the days , months and years after bereavement .
“ Before the closures we were seeing more than 1,000 visits every month , with help points every day of the working week across our catchment area .
Offering an online option seemed the next step for existing attendees and newly-bereaved people who wanted some peer support.
” Using the online meeting app Zoom , the hospice has launched two virtual help points for people who already attend groups , along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We initially spoke to the volunteers who help run our help points to ask them to help us test the technology and the format of the groups , ” Ian added .
“ Their willingness to embrace the technology was wonderful , particularly as we have a large number of volunteers who are over 75 , and the levels of engagement really challenged people ’ s perceptions of what older people are capable of when it comes to technology.
” The virtual help points have been a learning curve for staff , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ technological challenges and the need to ensure online security and privacy .
But he added that the initiative had been a real success at a time when bereaved people were feeling more isolated than normal .
“ One of the most enthusiastic members of our group is an 89-year-old lady who has never used video conferencing before , ” Ian added .
“ It ’ s important to realise that we ’ re not creating a replica of a BHP , we ’ re creating something different and it won ’ t be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that moment when you come into the non-virtual room and someone makes you a cup to tea , gives you a hug , spends time listening to you , while everyone around you is talking , just can ’ t be replicated . ''
“ But virtual help points also present a real opportunity for the future which we will explore , particularly around creating evening help points and reaching people who are physically isolated , ill or unable to travel.
” If you would like to find out more about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ St Giles Hospice supportive care team on 01543 434536 .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Tamworth straight to your inbox
Bereaved people in Tamworth are meeting online to support each other thanks to a new service offered by St Giles Hospice.
St Giles has launched three virtual bereavement help points which provide information, companionship and practical and emotional support using video-conferencing technology.
It comes after their face-to-face services had to close temporarily because of the safety measures taken to combat the spread of the coronavirus.
St Giles Hospice Community Engagement Manager Ian Leech said the idea for the virtual help points came about very quickly after the lockdown began.
He said: “We knew just how important community- based bereavement help points are in providing an anchor point for people’s weeks in the days, months and years after bereavement.
“Before the closures we were seeing more than 1,000 visits every month, with help points every day of the working week across our catchment area. Offering an online option seemed the next step for existing attendees and newly-bereaved people who wanted some peer support.”
Using the online meeting app Zoom, the hospice has launched two virtual help points for people who already attend groups, along with a third for newly-referred people.
“We initially spoke to the volunteers who help run our help points to ask them to help us test the technology and the format of the groups,” Ian added.
“Their willingness to embrace the technology was wonderful, particularly as we have a large number of volunteers who are over 75, and the levels of engagement really challenged people’s perceptions of what older people are capable of when it comes to technology.”
The virtual help points have been a learning curve for staff, volunteers and group members because of the technological challenges and the need to ensure online security and privacy.
But he added that the initiative had been a real success at a time when bereaved people were feeling more isolated than normal.
“One of the most enthusiastic members of our group is an 89-year-old lady who has never used video conferencing before,” Ian added.
“It’s important to realise that we’re not creating a replica of a BHP, we’re creating something different and it won’t be the same."
“For example, that moment when you come into the non-virtual room and someone makes you a cup to tea, gives you a hug, spends time listening to you, while everyone around you is talking, just can’t be replicated."
“But virtual help points also present a real opportunity for the future which we will explore, particularly around creating evening help points and reaching people who are physically isolated, ill or unable to travel.”
If you would like to find out more about the virtual bereavement help points, call the St Giles Hospice supportive care team on 01543 434536.


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Newcastle United have bid rejected for £26m Wolves transfer target

Newcastle United have had a bid for long-time Wolves target Franck Kessie rejected , according to reports in Italy .
The midfielder has been linked to Wolves in each of the last two transfer windows with AC Milan reportedly ready to sell if the right offer comes in .
It is believed that a fee of between £22m and £26m would be enough to sign the 23-year-old .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store According to Tuttomercato , Newcastle have launched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the club , initially on-loan .
The offer was believed to have a loan fee of £5m , before paying the remaining £25m to make it a permanent switch .
However , Milan are said to have rejected the approach out of hand , with the Rossoneri keen to recoup funds up front .
The Magpies are in the process of being taken over by a wealthy consortium led by Amanda Staveley with backing from Saudi Arabia 's Public Investment Fund .
Kessie spent two seasons on loan at the San Siro before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Atalanta last year .
As well as Wolves , Arsenal , Everton and West Ham United have also been linked with the Ivory Coast international who has made 25 appearances this season , scoring once .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Newcastle United have had a bid for long-time Wolves target Franck Kessie rejected, according to reports in Italy.
The midfielder has been linked to Wolves in each of the last two transfer windows with AC Milan reportedly ready to sell if the right offer comes in.
It is believed that a fee of between £22m and £26m would be enough to sign the 23-year-old.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
According to Tuttomercato, Newcastle have launched a bid that would see Kessie join the club, initially on-loan. The offer was believed to have a loan fee of £5m, before paying the remaining £25m to make it a permanent switch.
However, Milan are said to have rejected the approach out of hand, with the Rossoneri keen to recoup funds up front.
The Magpies are in the process of being taken over by a wealthy consortium led by Amanda Staveley with backing from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
Kessie spent two seasons on loan at the San Siro before Milan completed his signing on permanent terms from Atalanta last year.
As well as Wolves, Arsenal, Everton and West Ham United have also been linked with the Ivory Coast international who has made 25 appearances this season, scoring once.


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Ryanair, Easyjet, BA, Jet2 all issue updates on flights restarting

Ryanair has made a huge announcement on Tuesday , confirming flights to a string of locations would be resumed from July 1 .
A number of other airlines have announced tentative plans to ramp up their operations from the skeleton schedules currently being used .
In the wake of the Covid-19 crisis , airlines were forced to ground flights - with holidays severely impacted due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Extra safety and hygiene measures will be introduced by travel operators amidst the pandemic .
And as shops re-open across Birmingham from June 1 , airlines will be gearing up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tui said it was facing the industry 's `` greatest crisis '' but is among those restarting flights , as well as Ryanair , Easyjet , Jet2 and BA .
Ryanair has confirmed its plan to ramp up flights to 40 % of its normal schedule from July 1 .
This comes after Spain announced it will welcome the return of tourists from the same date .
Ryanair said in a statement : `` Ryanair will be offering daily flights from countries all over northern Europe including Ireland , the UK , Belgium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holiday airports of Portugal , Spain , Italy , Greece and Cyprus from 1 July . ''
Ryanair chief executive Eddie Wilson said : “ It is important for our customers and our people that we return to some normal schedules from 1 July onwards .
“ Governments around Europe have implemented a four-month lockdown to limit the spread of the Covid-19 virus .
“ After four months , it is time to get Europe flying again so we can reunite friends and families , allow people to return to work and restart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provides so many millions of jobs.
” Jet2.com and Jet2holidays has announced plans to resume flights and holidays on July 1 .
A spokesman said : “ We have said throughout that the sun will shine again and when it does , we will be there to take customers away on their well-deserved holidays .
“ As well as taking them away for their much-needed holidays , customers can be assured that we will be implementing measures , in consultation with the relevant authorities , to ensure the safety and well-being of everybody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from a number of UK airports from June 15 .
The low-cost carrier announced that its initial schedule will involve mainly domestic flying in the UK and France .
Further routes will be confirmed `` over the coming weeks '' as demand increases and coronavirus lockdown measures across Europe are relaxed , the airline said .
UK airports to be served by easyJet from June 15 include Gatwick , Bristol , Birmingham , Liverpool , Newcastle , Edinburgh , Glasgow , Inverness and Belfast .
The only international route from the UK will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As part of new safety and hygiene measures , passengers and crew will be required to wear masks in airports and on aircraft .
There will be no food sold during flights , enhanced cleaning of planes , and disinfection wipes and hand sanitiser made available to passengers .
Travel giant TUI is planning to resume flights to main holiday destinations in Europe by the end of June .
“ We are planning to start flying again from end June , in time for summer vacation , ” chief executive Fritz Joussen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We want to resume flight traffic to Mallorca from mid-to-end June .
Austria , Greece , Cyprus , Croatia , Bulgaria are also well-prepared , ” Joussen told the paper .
British Airways has said it is planning a “ meaningful return to service ” in July , subject to restrictions being eased .
But bosses have warned that the airline does not expect to return to full capacity until 2023 .
A spokesman said : `` These plans are highly uncertain and subject to the easing of lockdowns and travel restriction .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , has said it does not expect demand for air travel to recover before 2023 , while Gatwick Airport has said it could take up to four years .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Ryanair has made a huge announcement on Tuesday, confirming flights to a string of locations would be resumed from July 1.
A number of other airlines have announced tentative plans to ramp up their operations from the skeleton schedules currently being used.
In the wake of the Covid-19 crisis, airlines were forced to ground flights - with holidays severely impacted due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Extra safety and hygiene measures will be introduced by travel operators amidst the pandemic.
And as shops re-open across Birmingham from June 1, airlines will be gearing up start jetting holidaymakers across the continent.
Tui said it was facing the industry's " greatest crisis" but is among those restarting flights, as well as Ryanair, Easyjet, Jet2 and BA.
Ryanair
Ryanair has confirmed its plan to ramp up flights to 40% of its normal schedule from July 1.
This comes after Spain announced it will welcome the return of tourists from the same date.
Ryanair said in a statement: "Ryanair will be offering daily flights from countries all over northern Europe including Ireland, the UK, Belgium, Holland and Germany to the key holiday airports of Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece and Cyprus from 1 July."
Ryanair chief executive Eddie Wilson said: “It is important for our customers and our people that we return to some normal schedules from 1 July onwards.
“Governments around Europe have implemented a four-month lockdown to limit the spread of the Covid-19 virus.
“After four months, it is time to get Europe flying again so we can reunite friends and families, allow people to return to work and restart Europe’s tourism industry, which provides so many millions of jobs.”
(Image: DAILY RECORD)
Jet2
Jet2.com and Jet2holidays has announced plans to resume flights and holidays on July 1.
A spokesman said: “We have said throughout that the sun will shine again and when it does, we will be there to take customers away on their well-deserved holidays.
“As well as taking them away for their much-needed holidays, customers can be assured that we will be implementing measures, in consultation with the relevant authorities, to ensure the safety and well-being of everybody onboard.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Easyjet
EasyJet is to resume flights from a number of UK airports from June 15.
The low-cost carrier announced that its initial schedule will involve mainly domestic flying in the UK and France.
Further routes will be confirmed "over the coming weeks" as demand increases and coronavirus lockdown measures across Europe are relaxed, the airline said.
UK airports to be served by easyJet from June 15 include Gatwick, Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Belfast.
The only international route from the UK will be between Gatwick and Nice, France.
As part of new safety and hygiene measures, passengers and crew will be required to wear masks in airports and on aircraft.
There will be no food sold during flights, enhanced cleaning of planes, and disinfection wipes and hand sanitiser made available to passengers.
TUI
Travel giant TUI is planning to resume flights to main holiday destinations in Europe by the end of June.
“We are planning to start flying again from end June, in time for summer vacation,” chief executive Fritz Joussen told Rheinische Post in Germany.
“We want to resume flight traffic to Mallorca from mid-to-end June. Austria, Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Bulgaria are also well-prepared,” Joussen told the paper.
British Airways
British Airways has said it is planning a “meaningful return to service” in July, subject to restrictions being eased.
But bosses have warned that the airline does not expect to return to full capacity until 2023.
A spokesman said: "These plans are highly uncertain and subject to the easing of lockdowns and travel restriction."
IAG, which owns British Airways, has said it does not expect demand for air travel to recover before 2023, while Gatwick Airport has said it could take up to four years.


birminghammail--2020-05-26--The part of Cummings row everybody is discussing - but Gove says is 'irrelevant'

There 's one aspect of Dominic Cummings ' press conference everybody is talking about : the trip to Barnard Castle on his wife 's birthday .
Boris Johnson 's chief adviser Mr Cummings opened up to the media on Monday about his stay in County Durham amid lockdown restrictions .
Mr Cummings said he , his wife Mary Wakefield , and their son travelled by car from London to County Durham on the night of March 27 to be near his relatives .
He said with Ms Wakefield having fallen ill , and with Downing Street reporting coronavirus cases , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ childcare should both he and Ms Wakefield become unwell .
During their stay , they `` ended up '' on the outskirts of Barnard Castle town , he said .
This was also the day of his wife 's 45th birthday .
But as Twitter users questioned the coincidence of Mr Cummings ended up at a beauty spot on his wife 's birthday , Michael Gove spoke out to back his long-standing confidante .
“ It was also Easter Sunday .
Both of those things are irrelevant ” , he told Radio 4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ To my mind I can ’ t see the relevance of that .
He drove to Barnard Castle .
“ The family stopped , he walked a few yards , sat on a bench for a short period of time , then walked back to the car and drove back to his home .
“ I think the fact that it was , as it also happens Easter Sunday , is immaterial.
” Mr Cummings ’ unprecedented statement in the No10 rose garden yesterday came after more than 20 Tory MPs demanded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his 260-mile drive to Durham in late March .
Some of the Church of England 's most senior bishops have reported receiving hate mail and death threats after speaking out on Downing Street adviser Dominic Cummings ' alleged breach of lockdown rules .
Bishop of Worcester John Inge tweeted that he received an email warning `` stay out of politics or we 'll kill you '' after he criticised Boris Johnson 's `` risible defence '' of Mr Cummings on Sunday night .
Helen-Ann Hartley , the bishop of Ripon , reported a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of politics or it will be the death of you ' was one of the emails I received today .
Thank you to those who have sent supportive messages . ''
She had earlier written about missing her father 's birthday during the lockdown as he recovered from radiotherapy .
Rev Hartley said she was `` following up '' the hate email with police .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
There's one aspect of Dominic Cummings' press conference everybody is talking about: the trip to Barnard Castle on his wife's birthday.
Boris Johnson's chief adviser Mr Cummings opened up to the media on Monday about his stay in County Durham amid lockdown restrictions.
Mr Cummings said he, his wife Mary Wakefield, and their son travelled by car from London to County Durham on the night of March 27 to be near his relatives. He said with Ms Wakefield having fallen ill, and with Downing Street reporting coronavirus cases, this was the best option to secure childcare should both he and Ms Wakefield become unwell.
During their stay, they "ended up" on the outskirts of Barnard Castle town, he said. This was also the day of his wife's 45th birthday.
But as Twitter users questioned the coincidence of Mr Cummings ended up at a beauty spot on his wife's birthday, Michael Gove spoke out to back his long-standing confidante.
“It was also Easter Sunday. Both of those things are irrelevant”, he told Radio 4.
Earlier he told BBC Breakfast: “To my mind I can’t see the relevance of that. He drove to Barnard Castle.
“The family stopped, he walked a few yards, sat on a bench for a short period of time, then walked back to the car and drove back to his home.
“I think the fact that it was, as it also happens Easter Sunday, is immaterial.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Mr Cummings’ unprecedented statement in the No10 rose garden yesterday came after more than 20 Tory MPs demanded Mr Cummings resign or be sacked over his 260-mile drive to Durham in late March.
Some of the Church of England's most senior bishops have reported receiving hate mail and death threats after speaking out on Downing Street adviser Dominic Cummings' alleged breach of lockdown rules.
Bishop of Worcester John Inge tweeted that he received an email warning "stay out of politics or we'll kill you" after he criticised Boris Johnson's "risible defence" of Mr Cummings on Sunday night.
Helen-Ann Hartley, the bishop of Ripon, reported a similar threat, posting: "'Stay out of politics or it will be the death of you' was one of the emails I received today. Thank you to those who have sent supportive messages."
She had earlier written about missing her father's birthday during the lockdown as he recovered from radiotherapy.
Rev Hartley said she was "following up" the hate email with police.


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Car careers off road and flips several times in park

This was the aftermath after a car careered off the road and overturned in a Walsall park – injuring one .
Medics and firefighters rushed to Station Road , outside Pelsall Community Centre , after the purple Audi A3 flipped onto Pelsall Common at around 4.30pm on Monday , May 25 .
Two men managed to get out of the car before the emergency services arrived , a spokesman for West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said .
One was taken to Walsall Manor Hospital with injuries not believed to be serious .
A flurry of 999 calls were made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fire service said : `` We were called to Station Road after reports of a car rolling multiple times .
`` Two patients managed to self-extricate themselves prior to our arrival and were treated by crews from the ambulance service . ''
While a spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service added : `` We were called at 4.35pm to reports of a rollover road traffic collision '' One ambulance and a paramedic officer attended .
We treated one man for injuries not believed to be serious and was taken to Walsall Manor @ @ @

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
This was the aftermath after a car careered off the road and overturned in a Walsall park – injuring one.
Medics and firefighters rushed to Station Road, outside Pelsall Community Centre, after the purple Audi A3 flipped onto Pelsall Common at around 4.30pm on Monday, May 25.
Two men managed to get out of the car before the emergency services arrived, a spokesman for West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said.
One was taken to Walsall Manor Hospital with injuries not believed to be serious.
A flurry of 999 calls were made following the smash.
The spokesman for the fire service said: "We were called to Station Road after reports of a car rolling multiple times.
"Two patients managed to self-extricate themselves prior to our arrival and were treated by crews from the ambulance service."
While a spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service added: "We were called at 4.35pm to reports of a rollover road traffic collision
"One ambulance and a paramedic officer attended. We treated one man for injuries not believed to be serious and was taken to Walsall Manor Hospital."


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Ryanair resuming flights to Spain, Italy and Greece from July 1 - full list

Ryanair has confirmed its plan to ramp up flights to 40 per cent of its normal schedule from July 1 .
This comes after Spain announced it will welcome the return of tourists from the same date .
Ryanair said in a statement : `` Ryanair will be offering daily flights from countries all over northern Europe including Ireland , the UK , Belgium , Holland and Germany to the key holiday airports of Portugal , Spain , Italy , Greece and Cyprus from 1 July . ''
It comes after it emerged Spain was lifting the 14-day quarantine for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hopes of a summer holiday .
Birmingham Airport passengers will also see EasyJet resume flights from June 15 .
Flights will serve a a number of UK airports including Gatwick , Bristol , Birmingham , Liverpool , Newcastle , Edinburgh , Glasgow , Inverness and Belfast .
The only international route from the UK will be between Gatwick and Nice , France .
But there will be no food sold during flights , and passengers must wear masks .
Planes will be deep cleaned and disinfection wipes and hand sanitiser will be available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spot checks and £1,000 fines if they fail to self-isolate for 14 days after arriving in the UK under measures to guard against a second wave of coronavirus .
The move will anger some sectors , with Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary earlier this week branding the plan `` idiotic '' and `` unimplementable '' , while trade body Airlines UK has previously said a quarantine `` would effectively kill '' international travel to and from Britain .
Many other countries already require arriving passengers to enter a 14-day quarantine , including New Zealand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spain and the US .
This is despite the World Health Organisation saying in February that measures which `` significantly interfere '' with international travel `` may only be justified at the beginning of an outbreak '' .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Ryanair has confirmed its plan to ramp up flights to 40 per cent of its normal schedule from July 1.
This comes after Spain announced it will welcome the return of tourists from the same date.
Ryanair said in a statement: "Ryanair will be offering daily flights from countries all over northern Europe including Ireland, the UK, Belgium, Holland and Germany to the key holiday airports of Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece and Cyprus from 1 July."
It comes after it emerged Spain was lifting the 14-day quarantine for British holidaymakers - effectively breathing life into hopes of a summer holiday.
Birmingham Airport passengers will also see EasyJet resume flights from June 15.
Flights will serve a a number of UK airports including Gatwick, Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Belfast.
The only international route from the UK will be between Gatwick and Nice, France.
(Image: Niall Carson / PA Wire)
But there will be no food sold during flights, and passengers must wear masks.
Planes will be deep cleaned and disinfection wipes and hand sanitiser will be available for passengers.
International travellers could face spot checks and £1,000 fines if they fail to self-isolate for 14 days after arriving in the UK under measures to guard against a second wave of coronavirus.
The move will anger some sectors, with Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary earlier this week branding the plan "idiotic" and "unimplementable", while trade body Airlines UK has previously said a quarantine "would effectively kill" international travel to and from Britain.
Many other countries already require arriving passengers to enter a 14-day quarantine, including New Zealand, South Africa, South Korea, Spain and the US.
This is despite the World Health Organisation saying in February that measures which "significantly interfere" with international travel "may only be justified at the beginning of an outbreak".


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Robbie Savage's Second City Derby field day will delight Blues fans

Former Birmingham City star Robbie Savage certainly enjoyed himself last night .
The former Blues man sat down to tune into Sky Sports ' showing of a classic Second City Derby encounter between Blues and Aston Villa , the 2002 edition that saw the first league encounter between the two sides in fifteen years .
Buoyed by a Clinton Morrison opener , a raucous St Andrew 's erupted into pandemonium after Olof Mellberg 's throw-in rolled under the feet of Villa goalie Peter Enckelman to double Blues ' lead before Geoff Horsfield sealed victory shortly before the finish .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay on top of all the Birmingham City news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Blues news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Savage , who enjoyed a glorious evening during the game itself , was one of the more vocal commentators on the game 's showing yesterday .
Taking to Twitter , the former Blues midfielder sat down and live-tweeted throughout the game .
Armed with laughing emoji and a vicious barb aplenty , Savage took glee in recalling the game .
`` Watching Blues take Villa apart here on TV , '' started Savage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` What a night mate '' replied the ex-Blues striker Morrison , after Savage demanded more of the same for the second half .
`` Feel there 's a goal coming here ... '' commented Savage as his finger lingered over the record button , with Olof Mellberg stepping up to take one of the most fateful throw-ins to ever take place in the city .
`` No .
No .
NO .
NO !
OHHH ... TWO NIL ! ''
roared Savage as the ball slipped under Enckelman 's foot to double @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't truly done though .
With Villa fans stirred into action , Robbie left a challenge .
`` Come on Villa fans , if you 're tweeting me about games which I played in for Blues v Villa , tweet me one which I lost in , ones I could effect ?
Hurry up ... '' added Savage .
Savage appeared 82 times for Blues before leaving for Blackburn in 2005 .

Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment
Why should you sign up?
In our daily Birmingham City bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans.
How do you sign up?
It's easy and only takes seconds.
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up.
And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here.
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to.
And what's more, it's absolutely free!
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter.
We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Lorraine Kelly delivers brutal verdict on Dominic Cummings lockdown row

Lorraine Kelly has brutally lashed out at Dominic Cummings after his controversial press conference at Downing Street yesterday .
Mr Cummings engaged in an hour-long press conference from the garden of Number Ten on Bank Holiday Monday .
He fielded questions from journalists amid allegations he breached the ongoing coronavirus lockdown with a trip to Durham .
Today , Lorraine used her platform on her self-titled ITV1 daytime show to take aim at the Prime Minister 's chief adviser .
Lorraine hit out at Mr Cummings , who she claims has `` eroded '' trust in the government .
Discussing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British beaches , where UK residents flocked on Monday to lap up the sun , Lorraine fumed .
Addressing her correspondent in Westminster , Lorraine fumed : `` I think you 're absolutely right .
I noticed that yesterday - seeing people all around and about .
Again , this kind of erodes trust , does n't it ? ''
The Scottish TV presenter then said : `` It 's one of those things you ca n't quite define , but it erodes trust in the government . ''
It comes after he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government came as Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove sought to defend his longstanding ally .
Mr Douglas Ross said that `` while the intentions may have been well meaning '' , Mr Cummings ' interpretation of the rules was `` not shared by the vast majority of people '' .
`` I have constituents who did n't get to say goodbye to loved ones ; families who could not mourn together ; people who did n't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the Government , '' the Tory MP for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior adviser to the Government was right . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Lorraine Kelly has brutally lashed out at Dominic Cummings after his controversial press conference at Downing Street yesterday.
Mr Cummings engaged in an hour-long press conference from the garden of Number Ten on Bank Holiday Monday.
He fielded questions from journalists amid allegations he breached the ongoing coronavirus lockdown with a trip to Durham.
Today, Lorraine used her platform on her self-titled ITV1 daytime show to take aim at the Prime Minister's chief adviser.
Lorraine hit out at Mr Cummings, who she claims has "eroded" trust in the government.
Discussing the ongoing lockdown and the scenes at British beaches, where UK residents flocked on Monday to lap up the sun, Lorraine fumed.
Addressing her correspondent in Westminster, Lorraine fumed: "I think you're absolutely right. I noticed that yesterday - seeing people all around and about. Again, this kind of erodes trust, doesn't it?"
The Scottish TV presenter then said: "It's one of those things you can't quite define, but it erodes trust in the government."
It comes after he first resignation over the allegations rocking the Government came as Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove sought to defend his longstanding ally.
Mr Douglas Ross said that "while the intentions may have been well meaning", Mr Cummings' interpretation of the rules was "not shared by the vast majority of people".
"I have constituents who didn't get to say goodbye to loved ones; families who could not mourn together; people who didn't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the Government," the Tory MP for Moray wrote.
"I cannot in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior adviser to the Government was right."


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Dominic Cummings witness questioned by cops as lockdown trip row deepens

A witness to an alleged lockdown breach by Boris Johnson 's top aide said he has been interviewed by police , as the PM faces pressure from within his own party over Dominic Cummings ' Durham trip .
Robin Lees described having had a `` thorough '' chat with officers about his claim to have seen Mr Cummings and his family walking by the River Tees on Easter Sunday .
It comes as one minister quit in protest at the senior aide remaining in his Number 10 post , and dozens of Conservative MPs called for Mr Cummings to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ controversial adviser .
The Guardian reported that Mr Lees was interviewed on Monday evening , after Mr Cummings gave an extraordinary Downing Street press conference .
The retired teacher , of Barnard Castle , told the newspaper : `` They were very thorough , asking every detail of what I saw .
They were not in uniform .
`` They asked me a lot about my background .
They wanted to know exactly what time it was .
They wanted to know if it was a clear day and did I know what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ televised speech on Monday , Mr Cummings said he had driven for half an hour and ended up by a riverbank on the outskirts of Barnard Castle town on Easter Sunday in a trip to test his eyesight before making the long journey back to London the following day .
Returning to the car , an elderly gentleman walking nearby appeared to recognise him , he said , adding that his wife wished the man a Happy Easter `` but we had no interaction with him '' .
Tuesday saw the first resignation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trip was revealed in a joint investigation by the Guardian and Mirror late on Friday .
Douglas Ross , the parliamentary under-secretary of state for Scotland , said he could not remain in government after hearing Mr Cummings ' efforts to defend his trip from London to Durham despite the coronavirus lockdown .
Dozens of Conservative MPs have said Mr Cummings should go despite ministers seeking to protect the controversial adviser .
Efforts to defend Mr Cummings ' actions even led Health Secretary Matt Hancock to indicate that fines levied on parents flouting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be reviewed .
In his resignation statement Mr Ross , the MP for Moray , said : `` I have constituents who did n't get to say goodbye to loved ones ; families who could not mourn together ; people who did n't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the Government .
`` I can not in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior adviser to the Government was right . ''
Scottish Conservative leader Jackson Carlaw added his voice to dozens of Tory MPs who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be sacked by the Prime Minister .
Downing Street insisted the PM had not split the Government by backing Mr Cummings .
But Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick told BBC Radio 2 that his own postbag showed `` many people still disagree '' with Mr Cummings ' actions .
Critics accused Mr Cummings of undermining the Government 's efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus , which has so far been linked to more than 47,300 deaths in the UK .
Mr Cummings said he had driven to Durham to isolate in a property @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerns over who would care for his four-year-old son if both he and his wife were incapacitated by Covid-19 .
At the Downing Street press conference , Mr Hancock was asked by a member of the public whether the Government would now review all penalty fines imposed on families travelling for childcare purposes during lockdown .
Mr Hancock said it was a `` very good question '' and indicated he would consult the Treasury and `` look at it '' .
Tory MPs confronted with angry correspondence from constituents over the weekend made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with at least 27 calling for Mr Cummings to go .
Former attorney general Jeremy Wright called for Mr Cummings to quit , saying his actions may technically have been within the rules , but efforts to combat Covid-19 had been due to `` people accepting wholeheartedly not just the letter of the restrictions that have been set out , but also their spirit '' .
Former chief whip Mark Harper said Mr Cummings `` should have offered to resign , and the Prime Minister should have accepted his resignation '' .
MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their positions in part to the campaign Mr Cummings helped run - also called for him to face the consequences of his actions .
Simon Jupp said he felt `` anger , disappointment and frustration '' and suggested Mr Cummings should consider his position , Craig Whittaker said he should be reprimanded and Elliot Colburn said he should resign for undermining the Government 's messages on controlling the spread of the virus .
Mr Cummings has argued that his journey to Durham in March was justified as he sought to protect his family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unanswered , including over his subsequent drive to Barnard Castle which he said was to test his eyesight after it was affected by Covid-19 .
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove said the journey , some 25 miles from where the aide was isolating , was `` completely appropriate '' because he was `` preparing to return to work '' by checking he was safe to drive the long trip back to London .
Former Greater Manchester Police chief constable Sir Peter Fahy told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme that Mr Cummings ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be against the Highway Code - it 's not the way to test your eyesight , and put potentially other people in danger '' .
Experts at the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and Moorfields Eye Hospital said there was little evidence to link Covid-19 to eyesight problems .
Some 71 % of Britons believe Mr Cummings broke the lockdown and 59 % think he should resign , according to a snap poll of 1,160 adults by YouGov after the aide 's defence , which suggested his statement had turned public opinion further @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A witness to an alleged lockdown breach by Boris Johnson's top aide said he has been interviewed by police, as the PM faces pressure from within his own party over Dominic Cummings' Durham trip.
Robin Lees described having had a "thorough" chat with officers about his claim to have seen Mr Cummings and his family walking by the River Tees on Easter Sunday.
It comes as one minister quit in protest at the senior aide remaining in his Number 10 post, and dozens of Conservative MPs called for Mr Cummings to go despite Cabinet members seeking to protect the controversial adviser.
The Guardian reported that Mr Lees was interviewed on Monday evening, after Mr Cummings gave an extraordinary Downing Street press conference.
The retired teacher, of Barnard Castle, told the newspaper: "They were very thorough, asking every detail of what I saw. They were not in uniform.
"They asked me a lot about my background. They wanted to know exactly what time it was. They wanted to know if it was a clear day and did I know what Cummings looked like."
In his televised speech on Monday, Mr Cummings said he had driven for half an hour and ended up by a riverbank on the outskirts of Barnard Castle town on Easter Sunday in a trip to test his eyesight before making the long journey back to London the following day.
Returning to the car, an elderly gentleman walking nearby appeared to recognise him, he said, adding that his wife wished the man a Happy Easter "but we had no interaction with him".
Tuesday saw the first resignation of a minister since Mr Cummings' trip was revealed in a joint investigation by the Guardian and Mirror late on Friday.
Douglas Ross, the parliamentary under-secretary of state for Scotland, said he could not remain in government after hearing Mr Cummings' efforts to defend his trip from London to Durham despite the coronavirus lockdown.
Dozens of Conservative MPs have said Mr Cummings should go despite ministers seeking to protect the controversial adviser.
Efforts to defend Mr Cummings' actions even led Health Secretary Matt Hancock to indicate that fines levied on parents flouting lockdown rules due to childcare concerns could be reviewed.
In his resignation statement Mr Ross, the MP for Moray, said: "I have constituents who didn't get to say goodbye to loved ones; families who could not mourn together; people who didn't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the Government.
"I cannot in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior adviser to the Government was right."
(Image: Getty Images)
Scottish Conservative leader Jackson Carlaw added his voice to dozens of Tory MPs who called for the aide to quit or be sacked by the Prime Minister.
Downing Street insisted the PM had not split the Government by backing Mr Cummings.
But Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick told BBC Radio 2 that his own postbag showed "many people still disagree" with Mr Cummings' actions.
Critics accused Mr Cummings of undermining the Government's efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus, which has so far been linked to more than 47,300 deaths in the UK.
Mr Cummings said he had driven to Durham to isolate in a property on his father's farm because of concerns over who would care for his four-year-old son if both he and his wife were incapacitated by Covid-19.
At the Downing Street press conference, Mr Hancock was asked by a member of the public whether the Government would now review all penalty fines imposed on families travelling for childcare purposes during lockdown.
Mr Hancock said it was a "very good question" and indicated he would consult the Treasury and "look at it".
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Tory MPs confronted with angry correspondence from constituents over the weekend made clear their views on the row, with at least 27 calling for Mr Cummings to go.
Former attorney general Jeremy Wright called for Mr Cummings to quit, saying his actions may technically have been within the rules, but efforts to combat Covid-19 had been due to "people accepting wholeheartedly not just the letter of the restrictions that have been set out, but also their spirit".
Former chief whip Mark Harper said Mr Cummings "should have offered to resign, and the Prime Minister should have accepted his resignation".
MPs from the 2019 intake - who owe their positions in part to the campaign Mr Cummings helped run - also called for him to face the consequences of his actions.
Simon Jupp said he felt "anger, disappointment and frustration" and suggested Mr Cummings should consider his position, Craig Whittaker said he should be reprimanded and Elliot Colburn said he should resign for undermining the Government's messages on controlling the spread of the virus.
Mr Cummings has argued that his journey to Durham in March was justified as he sought to protect his family's health.
But many questions remained unanswered, including over his subsequent drive to Barnard Castle which he said was to test his eyesight after it was affected by Covid-19.
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove said the journey, some 25 miles from where the aide was isolating, was "completely appropriate" because he was "preparing to return to work" by checking he was safe to drive the long trip back to London.
Former Greater Manchester Police chief constable Sir Peter Fahy told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that Mr Cummings' trip to Barnard Castle "certainly appears to be against the Highway Code - it's not the way to test your eyesight, and put potentially other people in danger".
Experts at the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and Moorfields Eye Hospital said there was little evidence to link Covid-19 to eyesight problems.
Some 71% of Britons believe Mr Cummings broke the lockdown and 59% think he should resign, according to a snap poll of 1,160 adults by YouGov after the aide's defence, which suggested his statement had turned public opinion further against him.


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Barcelona chief 'furious' over latest Adama Traore transfer claim

Barcelona are reportedly furious that Liverpool want to sign Adama Traore from Wolverhampton Wanderers .
Speculation over Traore 's future is rife , with claims a host of Europe 's top clubs want to prise him away from Molineux after a terrific season .
The Spanish winger has been in superb form , scoring six goals and adding 12 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions .
The 24-year-old joined Wolves from Middlesbrough in 2018 and his development under Nuno Espirito Santo has been breathtaking .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store and App Store Traore came through Barcelona 's famed La Masia youth academy but made only one senior outing for the La Liga giants before being sold to Aston Villa five years ago .
They have been linked with interest in taking Traore back to Camp Nou and according to Spanish outlet Don Balon ( via Caught Offside ) , one senior figure is distressed over claims Liverpool could sign him .
It is reported club president Josep Bartomeu is 'pulling his hair out ' at the idea of the flier joining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United and Bayern Munich have also been linked with Traore , who cost Wolves £18m .
During an interview with Madrid-based radio station Cadena SER , the player admitted he would consider a return to Spain with either Barcelona or arch-rivals Real Madrid .
“ It would n't be a problem for me [ if Madrid called ] , I do n't close my door to anything , '' Traore told Spanish newspaper , La Vanguardia .
`` Right now I am very happy where I am , the team and the people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a new stage for us and the physiotherapists work incredibly hard on ensuring our recovery [ between the extra games ] .
Offers from Madrid or Barca will come when they come , but my mentality is to continue growing as a player . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Barcelona are reportedly furious that Liverpool want to sign Adama Traore from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Speculation over Traore's future is rife, with claims a host of Europe's top clubs want to prise him away from Molineux after a terrific season.
The Spanish winger has been in superb form, scoring six goals and adding 12 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.
The 24-year-old joined Wolves from Middlesbrough in 2018 and his development under Nuno Espirito Santo has been breathtaking.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Traore came through Barcelona's famed La Masia youth academy but made only one senior outing for the La Liga giants before being sold to Aston Villa five years ago.
They have been linked with interest in taking Traore back to Camp Nou and according to Spanish outlet Don Balon (via Caught Offside), one senior figure is distressed over claims Liverpool could sign him.
It is reported club president Josep Bartomeu is 'pulling his hair out' at the idea of the flier joining Barca's Champions League rivals.
Manchester United and Bayern Munich have also been linked with Traore, who cost Wolves £18m.
During an interview with Madrid-based radio station Cadena SER, the player admitted he would consider a return to Spain with either Barcelona or arch-rivals Real Madrid.
“It wouldn't be a problem for me [if Madrid called], I don't close my door to anything," Traore told Spanish newspaper, La Vanguardia. "Right now I am very happy where I am, the team and the people are fantastic.
"Being in Europe is a new stage for us and the physiotherapists work incredibly hard on ensuring our recovery [between the extra games]. Offers from Madrid or Barca will come when they come, but my mentality is to continue growing as a player."


birminghammail--2020-05-26--Euromillions results: Winning National Lottery numbers for Tuesday

It ’ s an exciting night for Euromillions players as Camelot plans to dish out multiple prizes to players across the UK .
The EuroMillions draw takes place every Tuesday and Friday at approximately 8pm .
The two special draws are being held to celebrate changes to the EuroMillions game which Camelot says will give players the chance of winning bigger jackpot prizes more often .
A spokesman for Camelot said : “ More prize money will go into the jackpot - plus there will be a prize cap increase to 200M Euros ( up from 190M Euros ) - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more often .
“ The changes , which will also see more special promotional draws in the year , came into effect from 1 February , with the first draw on Tuesday 4 February 2020 .
“ EuroMillions UK Millionaire Maker guarantees to create a millionaire in every draw , but in the EuroMillions draw on Tuesday , February 4 , an additional 19 lucky winners will be able to look forward to becoming an overnight millionaire .
For every EuroMillions line played , UK players automatically receive a EuroMillions Millionaire Maker code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the EuroMillions draw are 09 , 04 , 27 , 14 , 21 .
UK Millionaire Raffle Selection - one UK millionaire has been created : HFSJ71732

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
It’s an exciting night for Euromillions players as Camelot plans to dish out multiple prizes to players across the UK.
The EuroMillions draw takes place every Tuesday and Friday at approximately 8pm.
The two special draws are being held to celebrate changes to the EuroMillions game which Camelot says will give players the chance of winning bigger jackpot prizes more often.
A spokesman for Camelot said: “More prize money will go into the jackpot - plus there will be a prize cap increase to 200M Euros (up from 190M Euros) - meaning an increased chance of bigger jackpots more often.
“The changes, which will also see more special promotional draws in the year, came into effect from 1 February, with the first draw on Tuesday 4 February 2020.
“EuroMillions UK Millionaire Maker guarantees to create a millionaire in every draw, but in the EuroMillions draw on Tuesday, February 4, an additional 19 lucky winners will be able to look forward to becoming an overnight millionaire. For every EuroMillions line played, UK players automatically receive a EuroMillions Millionaire Maker code printed on their ticket.”
Winning numbers in the EuroMillions draw are 09, 04, 27, 14, 21.
The Lucky Star numbers are 04, 06.
Tonight's estimated jackpot is £33 million.
UK Millionaire Raffle Selection - one UK millionaire has been created: HFSJ71732
The National Lottery Thunderball winning numbers are 04, 12, 22, 23, 26.
The Thunderball is 10.