birminghammail--2020-10-30--Almost one in 10 Covid tests in Solihull are now positive

Almost one in 10 Covid-19 tests in Solihull is now coming back positive amid fears the borough could be on course for the strictest set of lockdown rules .
There is mounting speculation rising cases and pressure on the NHS could force the region into Tier 3 - the highest alert level - as soon as next week .
The proportion of swabs which confirm a Covid case in Solihull - a key measure of how widespread the virus is locally - is now 9.6 per cent .
This week the council said while household transmission was still the main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work were also causing concern .
The public health team has made a fresh plea for residents to stick to the basics around masks , hand-washing and social distancing .
Although in a sign that there is growing worry about coronavirus spreading between colleagues , there has also been a specific warning about travel .
A spokeswoman said : `` Car sharing should also be avoided as much as possible , and where it is the only option , follow steps that will minimise the risk , such as opening windows , wearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Recently there has been increased cases in Chelmsley Wood and while no explanation for the rise has been put forward , the council said that the cluster was one of the reasons the area was chosen to pilot a new `` drop and collect '' testing service .
`` Where we see spikes can change each week , so we need everyone across the borough to do their bit , '' added the spokeswoman .
Borough-wide the case rate is now 227 in every 100,000 residents , behind Birmingham and the Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The rate has fallen back slightly in the last few days , but remains well above the English average of 149 .
Perhaps more worrying is that the increased cases are now driving a significant rise in hospitalisations across the region , which was the major fear when the second wave started in earnest .
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street warned this week that further action to curb the spread of the virus would be needed if things did n't improve and pressures on the NHS continued to escalate .
Although he stressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - no decision had been taken about a move to Tier 3 .
Speaking today , Cllr Ian Courts , leader of the council , said : `` In the coming week I will be working alongside my fellow leaders and the WMCA mayor to lead discussions with government ministers .
`` We now need to understand the case for national Tier 3 restrictions and push for new measures that will work for us .
`` Crucially we need clarity on how we can spend the least time with any additional measures and @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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
Almost one in 10 Covid-19 tests in Solihull is now coming back positive amid fears the borough could be on course for the strictest set of lockdown rules.
There is mounting speculation rising cases and pressure on the NHS could force the region into Tier 3 - the highest alert level - as soon as next week.
The proportion of swabs which confirm a Covid case in Solihull - a key measure of how widespread the virus is locally - is now 9.6 per cent.
This week the council said while household transmission was still the main driver of local infections, outbreaks at work were also causing concern.
The public health team has made a fresh plea for residents to stick to the basics around masks, hand-washing and social distancing.
Although in a sign that there is growing worry about coronavirus spreading between colleagues, there has also been a specific warning about travel.
A spokeswoman said: "Car sharing should also be avoided as much as possible, and where it is the only option, follow steps that will minimise the risk, such as opening windows, wearing face coverings and cleaning door handles."
Recently there has been increased cases in Chelmsley Wood and while no explanation for the rise has been put forward, the council said that the cluster was one of the reasons the area was chosen to pilot a new "drop and collect" testing service.
(Image: @Lisa_McNally1)
"Where we see spikes can change each week, so we need everyone across the borough to do their bit," added the spokeswoman.
Borough-wide the case rate is now 227 in every 100,000 residents, behind Birmingham and the Black Country but still ahead of Coventry.
The rate has fallen back slightly in the last few days, but remains well above the English average of 149.
Perhaps more worrying is that the increased cases are now driving a significant rise in hospitalisations across the region, which was the major fear when the second wave started in earnest.
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street warned this week that further action to curb the spread of the virus would be needed if things didn't improve and pressures on the NHS continued to escalate.
Although he stressed that - despite talks between political leaders - no decision had been taken about a move to Tier 3.
Speaking today, Cllr Ian Courts, leader of the council, said: "In the coming week I will be working alongside my fellow leaders and the WMCA mayor to lead discussions with government ministers.
"We now need to understand the case for national Tier 3 restrictions and push for new measures that will work for us.
"Crucially we need clarity on how we can spend the least time with any additional measures and how we then de-escalate them."


birminghammail--2020-10-30--Police 'unlikely to break up minor Christmas parties'

There is 'no appetite ' for the police to break up minor Christmas parties over the festive period , a leading police chief has said .
Speaking this week at the West Midlands Combined Authority 's weekly media briefing , Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said he would be 'very surprised ' if police were to be breaking up 'minor infringements ' .
Earlier this week Mr Jamieson had suggested police may have to enforce Coronavirus restrictions over Christmas , with fears officers could be forced to break up Christmas dinners where rules were being broken .
However Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'time or the scope ' to deal with such issues , and has instead warned those planning large scale gatherings the Christmas period will be no exception .
`` As I said at the outset , the police do not make the rules or the laws - the police have to make sure that they are enforced , '' he said .
`` The policing is always proportionate , and there has to be discretion .
`` Is there an appetite , or the resources , to be breaking up Christmas parties and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very very much doubt it , and I ’ d be very surprised if that was happening .
`` I think the situation as it is now , where there have been larger gatherings where probably 30 or 40 people have gathered at a house , and clearly , flagrantly ignoring the Covid rules , that is where the police would be expected by the whole community to step in and enforce the law .
`` So for the minor infringements , there just will not be the time or scope to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the police do in this country .
`` But we are very clear , where people are ignoring the laws and putting themselves and the community at risk , we will step in and take action . ''
During the meeting Mr Jamieson also revealed the number of reports made to the police regarding rule breakers had risen over the past fortnight , from an average of around 150 a week to more than 250 a week .
And he added people should continue to get in touch with the force if they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even if it does happen over the festive period .
`` If people have concerns in their neighbourhood , about people who might be putting the rest of their community at risk , then as with any other criminal infringement we ’ d expect the public to come forward and say so .
`` But we do n't want heavy-handed policing here , we want people to enjoy their Christmas , I want people to enjoy their Christmas .
The police are all family people as well , and they want to enjoy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve got to do it in a way that is compliant with the present regulations - you ’ ve heard several others quite rightly say it .
`` And if there are major infringements then we ’ d all expect the police to take the appropriate action . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
There is 'no appetite' for the police to break up minor Christmas parties over the festive period, a leading police chief has said.
Speaking this week at the West Midlands Combined Authority's weekly media briefing, Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said he would be 'very surprised' if police were to be breaking up 'minor infringements'.
Earlier this week Mr Jamieson had suggested police may have to enforce Coronavirus restrictions over Christmas, with fears officers could be forced to break up Christmas dinners where rules were being broken.
However Mr Jamieson believes there will not be the 'time or the scope' to deal with such issues, and has instead warned those planning large scale gatherings the Christmas period will be no exception.
"As I said at the outset, the police do not make the rules or the laws - the police have to make sure that they are enforced," he said.
"The policing is always proportionate, and there has to be discretion.
"Is there an appetite, or the resources, to be breaking up Christmas parties and minor infringements of the law? I very very much doubt it, and I’d be very surprised if that was happening.
"I think the situation as it is now, where there have been larger gatherings where probably 30 or 40 people have gathered at a house, and clearly, flagrantly ignoring the Covid rules, that is where the police would be expected by the whole community to step in and enforce the law.
"So for the minor infringements, there just will not be the time or scope to do it - that’s not what the police do in this country.
"But we are very clear, where people are ignoring the laws and putting themselves and the community at risk, we will step in and take action."
During the meeting Mr Jamieson also revealed the number of reports made to the police regarding rule breakers had risen over the past fortnight, from an average of around 150 a week to more than 250 a week.
And he added people should continue to get in touch with the force if they have serious concerns over Covid rule-breaking - even if it does happen over the festive period.
"If people have concerns in their neighbourhood, about people who might be putting the rest of their community at risk, then as with any other criminal infringement we’d expect the public to come forward and say so.
"But we don't want heavy-handed policing here, we want people to enjoy their Christmas, I want people to enjoy their Christmas. The police are all family people as well, and they want to enjoy their Christmas.
"But we’ve got to do it in a way that is compliant with the present regulations - you’ve heard several others quite rightly say it.
"And if there are major infringements then we’d all expect the police to take the appropriate action."


birminghammail--2020-10-30--A high-tech 'gigafactory' could add £730m to local economy

The construction of a 'gigafactory ' in the West Midlands to produce electric car batteries could add £730 million to the local economy , it has been claimed .
And construction of one of the UK 's first such facilities in the region could also see 4,100 local jobs created , while protecting a huge 68,500 jobs in the national supply chain .
The figures have been revealed ahead of a meeting of the West Midlands Combined Authority 's ( WMCA ) Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting , with councillors due to discuss them next week .
A gigafactory refers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ batteries for electric vehicles on a large scale , with the UK 's first set to be constructed by Tesla over the next few years .
A presentation due to go before the committee will outline the potential benefits the construction of a specialist facility could have for the region , with all new cars expected to be zero emission by 2040 .
And Martin Yardley , chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Andy Williams , director of business , investment and culture for Coventry City Council , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged the WMCA to make the region the most attractive to investors going forward , calling for the West Midlands to become 'the heart of the electrified automotive industry . '
`` The final decision on the location of a Gigafactory will be made by a private investor , '' the presentation states .
`` Available government and regional support will influence this decision , but ultimately it will be commercial one .
`` Our role must be to position the West Midlands as the most competitive and attractive location , and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supply chain opportunities .
`` GVA per worker in the West Midlands automotive industry has been estimated at almost £70k .
`` This would mean that that 10,600 direct and indirect jobs created by a Gigafactory investment would be worth almost £730m to the local economy . ''

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
The construction of a 'gigafactory' in the West Midlands to produce electric car batteries could add £730 million to the local economy, it has been claimed.
And construction of one of the UK's first such facilities in the region could also see 4,100 local jobs created, while protecting a huge 68,500 jobs in the national supply chain.
The figures have been revealed ahead of a meeting of the West Midlands Combined Authority's (WMCA) Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting, with councillors due to discuss them next week.
A gigafactory refers to a type of factory that produces batteries for electric vehicles on a large scale, with the UK's first set to be constructed by Tesla over the next few years.
A presentation due to go before the committee will outline the potential benefits the construction of a specialist facility could have for the region, with all new cars expected to be zero emission by 2040.
And Martin Yardley, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Andy Williams, director of business, investment and culture for Coventry City Council, who put together the presentation, have urged the WMCA to make the region the most attractive to investors going forward, calling for the West Midlands to become 'the heart of the electrified automotive industry.'
"The final decision on the location of a Gigafactory will be made by a private investor," the presentation states.
"Available government and regional support will influence this decision, but ultimately it will be commercial one.
"Our role must be to position the West Midlands as the most competitive and attractive location, and to work to make the most of the supply chain opportunities.
"GVA per worker in the West Midlands automotive industry has been estimated at almost £70k.
"This would mean that that 10,600 direct and indirect jobs created by a Gigafactory investment would be worth almost £730m to the local economy."


birminghammail--2020-10-30--Birmingham's most haunted places mapped - best places to go ghost hunting

Have you ever seen a ghost or experienced some other form of paranormal activity ?
If you 've yet to have a close encounter with the supernatural world - or are a big fan of spooky places and keen to tick off a few more on the list - the West Midlands offers plenty of opportunities .
Birmingham absolutely shudders and shivers with numerous tales of spirits , spectres and things that go bump in the night .
We 've taken a look at the most haunted hotspots in and around Birmingham - including all the local places where ghost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find out where to go looking for evidence of the paranormal - and check out all the links to ghost tours listed below .
A Torchlight Ghost Tours of this Jacobean mansion has sold out for Halloween 2020 but there will be other chances to visit what is regarded as the most haunted building in Birmingham .
In 2019 it was named the most haunted historic site in the whole of the UK in a list compiled by Spectrum Paranormal Investigations and the National Lottery .
The Jacobean mansion was built by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first half of the 17th century .
He locked his daughter Mary in her room when she tried to elope with her lover rather than marry the suitor he had chosen .
Imprisoned upstairs , she went mad and died 16 years later .
Mary can now be seen as the White Lady , a shimmering figure who glides around the upper floors .
There ’ s also the Green Lady , who was Sir Thomas ’ s elderly housekeeper Mrs Walker .
Her spirit is often seen sitting on a chair in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , high-collared dress and appearing so lifelike that she is often mistaken for a member of staff in period costume .
Another story tells of the spirit of a servant boy who hanged himself in the attic after being accused of theft .
Kitchen staff have witnessed a glowing white ball materialising out of the wall and bouncing around at high speed before disappearing .
This has been linked to a cannonball that smashed into the house during the Civil War .
This Victorian Grade ll listed building also known as The Lock-Up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final time in 2017 .
Serial killer Fred West was kept in the cells following his initial arrest and this was where members of the original Peaky Blinders street gang were imprisoned .
Visitors have reported dark shadows and strange voices , along with heavy footsteps and the rattling of keys .
One cell in particular is said to be the focus of much of the strange activity in the building .
Thousands of prisoners have been held in the building over the decades so there are many potential presences on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Birmingham ’ s Jewellery Quarter is known for its catacombs and there have been several tales of supernatural activity .
Among the sightings are the grey image of a young women in 1930s clothing passing through solid objects , including a wall and a parked car .
The sightings are accompanied by an unusual scent , sometimes said to be like pear drops but more likely to be the bitter almond smell of potassium cyanide , which was used in gold-plating and silver-plating in the Jewellery Quarter .
That suggests the unfortunate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , perhaps by accident in one of the factories .
In addition , a ghostly young man in a trenchcoat has been seen in the catacombs .
Nearby , a worker repairing a machine is said to have shouted for a spanner and been handed one by an unseen presence .
The house - refurbished in recent years into high-quality office space - was built on the former estate of wealthy Birmingham printer John Baskerville .
After Baskerville ’ s death , the house was bought by John Ryland on July 14 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Priestley Riots , by protesters targeting Christian dissenters , began to erupt on Birmingham ’ s streets .
A mob ransacked the house and three rioters broke into the wine cellar , unaware the building above had caught fire .
They died in the inferno and there have been reports of a creepy atmosphere in the basement and three eerie shadows appearing and disappearing .
The first stone was laid by Joseph Chamberlain , then the mayor of Birmingham , in 1874 .
And it seems Brummagem Joe , as he was affectionately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the city he loved .
Council workers claim to have seen his spirit - clad in his usual attire of a black velvet coat , monocle and red neck-tie - sat behind his old wooden desk in the Lord Mayor ’ s office .
But he is a modest spook who prefers to work in private , vanishing as soon as he is spotted .
Sightings are usually accompanied by the smell of cut flowers , which Joe insisted on having in his office .
There have also been reports of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ linked perhaps to the monastery said to have been on the site centuries earlier , and the floating spectre of a former councillor who hanged himself in the entrance hall .
Can anywhere in the country boast of a more distinguished ghost than Charles Dickens himself ?
The famed author gave his first reading of A Christmas Carol at Birmingham Town Hall on Boxing Day 1853 .
And it 's said a Victorian man , thought to be Dickens himself , can still be seen sitting in the empty hall , in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The figure was once approached by a member of staff only to vanish before their eyes .
The other resident spooks are a pair of stonemasons who died on January 26 , 1833 , during construction of the building .
John Heap and William Badger had been working on the external carved pillars when a huge block of masonry fell and crushed them .
They were buried at Birmingham Cathedral and staff working at night in the Town Hall claim to have heard the two men still chiselling away at the pillars .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and strange shadows have been seen Dudley Castle is home to a host of spirits and regarded by paranormal experts as one of the most haunted locations in the Midlands .
The most famous ghost is the Grey Lady who is said to stroll through the grounds .
Visitors have also reported a meowing noise up on the keep , where legend says a local witch and her cat where thrown to their deaths .
A drumming noise is also reported there and believed to be linked to a young drummer boy killed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Extreme drops in temperature , a menacing male spirit and poltergeist activity have also been reported at the castle .
Book a ghost hunt at Dudley Castle here or here Graisley Old Hall - The House That Cries Graisley Old Hall has a history of hauntings dating back to the 1300s .
It 's earned the terrifying name of The House That Cries following a series of unexplained pools of water suddenly appearing and disappearing in the main hall .
This is said to have been witnessed many times by the owners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Poltergiest activity has also been reported here .
Book a ghost hunt at Graisley Old Hall here Regarded by ghost hunters as the most haunted hotel in the West Midlands and possibly the whole of the UK , it has a long history of paranormal phenomena and apparitions .
Tales of murder and suicide may be behind some of the sightings .
Ghost hunters say many people have fled in terror from the infamous room 214 and refused to return even for their belongings .
Room 217 has also been the site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide a frightening experience to those willing to brave them , including poltergeist activity .
There are tales of a hotel manager who enticed a servant girl into the cellar before murdering her after she spurned his advances and threatened to tell his wife .
Her body is said to have been concealed in a barrel .
On one ghost hunt , a coin was thrown in the cellar and heard to land , only to roll back in the darkness and return to the foot of the person who threw it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hotel here The spirit of Welsh freedom fighter Owain Glyndwr - from whom the Croft family are descended - is one of the seven spectres said to still walk the halls of Croft Castle .
Those who 've seen him say he 's 7ft tall and clad in a leather jerkin .
In addition , members of staff have reported many strange occurrences including the cry of a wailing baby and an apparition wearing a grey doublet and hose .
There have also been reports of a woman wearing crinoline and a cap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believed to be the ghost of a member of the Croft family who once held a desperate vigil in the house as she waited for money to be sent home by a relative in Ireland .
The National Trust says this ghost has been seen in several locations .
One person claims they once entered a room at Croft Castle to meet a friend .
The friend jumped up and asked to be introduced to the lady who had followed her in .
But , of course , there was no-one there .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ website here Check out other haunted houses owned by the National Trust here Become a member of the National Trust here English Heritage has its own fair share of haunted places - among those in the Midlands is Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire , said to be one of the country 's most haunted castles , where staff keep a ghost book for visitors to record their experiences .
Find out more here This creepy old building is home to many tragic tales that seem to have spawned a ghostly gallery of spirits including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of children who are seen insde the building as well as outside looking through the windows .
Many sightings of a man in a coachman 's uniform have been reported over the years , and such a uniform was found inside the chimney breast where it had been hidden for 150 years .
With claims of ghosts known as the Black Eyed Children being seen , strange animals and eerie screeching , it seems like a perfect spot for a chilling encounter .
The Four Crosses was originally built in 1636 from old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ old , giving it an even older history than the building itself .
Several secret passages have been discovered over the years .
Book a ghost hunt at Four Crosses Inn here or here Drakelow Tunnels are a former secret underground military complex beneath Kingsford Country Park , north of Kidderminster , There are said to be many ghosts and spirits lurking within the huge chambers .
The tunnels sit beneath a sacred hill which may explain why some of the sightings are described as monastic .
The eerie presences are thought to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ People have often spoken of seeing strange figures that dart behind walls and hearing footsteps that follow them through the passageways .
Book a ghost hunt at Drakelow Tunnels here or here Find things to do near you by putting your postcode in the interactive tool below : The Tudor building is now a museum and is packed with paranormal phenomena .
Sinister voices , heavy footsteps and a metallic scraping sound are commonly heard at the site , which is said to stand upon five ley lines running through the earth .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cause of energy vortexes on the upper floors through which spirits enter and leave .
Resident spooks include a young pickpocket who tries to remove people 's jewellery , a corrupt Justice of the Peace who used to extort money from the locals and a dark , hooded figure with red eyes .
Ghost hunters say the most frightening presence is that of a serial killer .
Heavy footsteps , whispering voices and dragging sounds have all been heard during vigils here .
Book a ghost hunt at The Falstaffs Experience here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigate with caves , cellars , a ruined house and a Masonic Temple which is particularly active .
Ghostly shapes are often seen wandering around and a lot of poltergeist activity has been reported .
The Masonic Lodge is especially eerie along with a dark basement where strange shadows have been seen .
Heavy footsteps and dragging noises have been heard above the chapel and Guy 's Cave is the site of unexplained phenomena in the darkness .
Ghost hunters describe the atmosphere as `` overwhelmingly petrifying . ''
Weird lights have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feelings of extreme and sudden nausea .
Extreme fluctuations in temperature , strange lights and physical sensations of being pushed and grabbed are said to be common experiences during ghost hunts at Warwick Castle .
One of the most infamous ghost stories connected with Warwick Castle is that of Sir Fulke Greville , who was murdered by a servant who had discovered he did not stand to benefit from his master 's will .
His ghost is said to haunt the tower and many people have reported seeing the figure of a man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ along the Chapel corridor .
Many people have encountered a malevolent and aggressive spirit who lurks in the dungeon , where growling noises can be heard .
St John 's House is reported to be haunted by many spirits including two sisters who both died tragically in the building .
One burned to death when her clothing caught light by an open fire and the other died of fright after the house was broken into .
Other paranormal activity includes ghostly footsteps and the voices of young girls .
The figure of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children are said to have been seen walking the corridors - some have also reported hearing them laughing and running .
There are also ghostly figures lurking in the cellar .
The Haunted Antiques Museum is inside one of Hinckley 's oldest buildings .
It 's filled with supernatural exhibits and relics including a voodoo doll and the chilling painting of the Crying Boy , along with a collection of Victorian antiques - all of them contributing to otherwordly activity on the premises .
Ghost hunters report `` incredible '' experiences including footage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say the whole fabric of the building is now possessed with paranormal power from all the artefacts housed there .
• Do you know somewhere that should be on the list ?
Email details to david.bentley @ reachplc.com

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Have you ever seen a ghost or experienced some other form of paranormal activity?
If you've yet to have a close encounter with the supernatural world - or are a big fan of spooky places and keen to tick off a few more on the list - the West Midlands offers plenty of opportunities.
Birmingham absolutely shudders and shivers with numerous tales of spirits, spectres and things that go bump in the night.
We've taken a look at the most haunted hotspots in and around Birmingham - including all the local places where ghost hunts are organised.
See the map to find out where to go looking for evidence of the paranormal - and check out all the links to ghost tours listed below.
Aston Hall
WHERE: Trinity Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6JD
A Torchlight Ghost Tours of this Jacobean mansion has sold out for Halloween 2020 but there will be other chances to visit what is regarded as the most haunted building in Birmingham.
In 2019 it was named the most haunted historic site in the whole of the UK in a list compiled by Spectrum Paranormal Investigations and the National Lottery.
The Jacobean mansion was built by the wealthy Sir Thomas Holte in the first half of the 17th century.
He locked his daughter Mary in her room when she tried to elope with her lover rather than marry the suitor he had chosen.
(Image: SWNS)
Imprisoned upstairs, she went mad and died 16 years later. Mary can now be seen as the White Lady, a shimmering figure who glides around the upper floors.
There’s also the Green Lady, who was Sir Thomas’s elderly housekeeper Mrs Walker. Her spirit is often seen sitting on a chair in the Great Hall, wearing a green, high-collared dress and appearing so lifelike that she is often mistaken for a member of staff in period costume.
Another story tells of the spirit of a servant boy who hanged himself in the attic after being accused of theft.
Kitchen staff have witnessed a glowing white ball materialising out of the wall and bouncing around at high speed before disappearing. This has been linked to a cannonball that smashed into the house during the Civil War.
(Image: SWNS)
Steelhouse Lane Police Station
WHERE: Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham, B4 6NW
This Victorian Grade ll listed building also known as The Lock-Up dates back to 1891 and closed for the final time in 2017.
Serial killer Fred West was kept in the cells following his initial arrest and this was where members of the original Peaky Blinders street gang were imprisoned.
Visitors have reported dark shadows and strange voices, along with heavy footsteps and the rattling of keys. One cell in particular is said to be the focus of much of the strange activity in the building.
Thousands of prisoners have been held in the building over the decades so there are many potential presences on the eerie site.
Book a ghost hunt at Steelhouse Lane Police Station here
(Image: GRAHAM YOUNG)
Warstone Lane Cemetery/Brookfields Cemetery
WHERE: 22 Pemberton Street, Birmingham B18 6LJ
This former burial ground in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is known for its catacombs and there have been several tales of supernatural activity.
Among the sightings are the grey image of a young women in 1930s clothing passing through solid objects, including a wall and a parked car.
The sightings are accompanied by an unusual scent, sometimes said to be like pear drops but more likely to be the bitter almond smell of potassium cyanide, which was used in gold-plating and silver-plating in the Jewellery Quarter.
That suggests the unfortunate woman was a victim of cyanide poisoning, perhaps by accident in one of the factories.
In addition, a ghostly young man in a trenchcoat has been seen in the catacombs.
Nearby, a worker repairing a machine is said to have shouted for a spanner and been handed one by an unseen presence.
Baskerville House
WHERE: Centenary Square Birmingham, B1 2ND
The house - refurbished in recent years into high-quality office space - was built on the former estate of wealthy Birmingham printer John Baskerville.
After Baskerville’s death, the house was bought by John Ryland on July 14, 1791 – the same day that the Priestley Riots, by protesters targeting Christian dissenters, began to erupt on Birmingham’s streets.
A mob ransacked the house and three rioters broke into the wine cellar, unaware the building above had caught fire. They died in the inferno and there have been reports of a creepy atmosphere in the basement and three eerie shadows appearing and disappearing.
Birmingham Council House
WHERE: Victoria Square, Birmingham B1 1BB
The first stone was laid by Joseph Chamberlain, then the mayor of Birmingham, in 1874.
And it seems Brummagem Joe, as he was affectionately known, is still keeping an eye on the city he loved.
Council workers claim to have seen his spirit - clad in his usual attire of a black velvet coat, monocle and red neck-tie - sat behind his old wooden desk in the Lord Mayor’s office. But he is a modest spook who prefers to work in private, vanishing as soon as he is spotted.
Sightings are usually accompanied by the smell of cut flowers, which Joe insisted on having in his office.
There have also been reports of a shadowy monk shuffling along the corridors, linked perhaps to the monastery said to have been on the site centuries earlier, and the floating spectre of a former councillor who hanged himself in the entrance hall.
Birmingham Town Hall
WHERE: Victoria Square, Birmingham B3 3DQ
Can anywhere in the country boast of a more distinguished ghost than Charles Dickens himself?
The famed author gave his first reading of A Christmas Carol at Birmingham Town Hall on Boxing Day 1853.
And it's said a Victorian man, thought to be Dickens himself, can still be seen sitting in the empty hall, in the gallery or strolling along the corridors.
The figure was once approached by a member of staff only to vanish before their eyes.
The other resident spooks are a pair of stonemasons who died on January 26, 1833, during construction of the building.
John Heap and William Badger had been working on the external carved pillars when a huge block of masonry fell and crushed them.
They were buried at Birmingham Cathedral and staff working at night in the Town Hall claim to have heard the two men still chiselling away at the pillars.
Lights have also gone on and off and strange shadows have been seen
Dudley Castle
WHERE: Castle Hill, Dudley, DY1 4QF
Dudley Castle is home to a host of spirits and regarded by paranormal experts as one of the most haunted locations in the Midlands.
The most famous ghost is the Grey Lady who is said to stroll through the grounds.
Visitors have also reported a meowing noise up on the keep, where legend says a local witch and her cat where thrown to their deaths. A drumming noise is also reported there and believed to be linked to a young drummer boy killed by a bullet during the Civil War.
Extreme drops in temperature, a menacing male spirit and poltergeist activity have also been reported at the castle.
Book a ghost hunt at Dudley Castle here or here
Graisley Old Hall - The House That Cries
WHERE: Carlton Road, Wolverhampton, WV3 0LP
Graisley Old Hall has a history of hauntings dating back to the 1300s.
It's earned the terrifying name of The House That Cries following a series of unexplained pools of water suddenly appearing and disappearing in the main hall. This is said to have been witnessed many times by the owners of the house as well as visitors.
Poltergiest activity has also been reported here.
Book a ghost hunt at Graisley Old Hall here
The Station Hotel
WHERE: Castle Hill, Dudley, DY1 4RA
Regarded by ghost hunters as the most haunted hotel in the West Midlands and possibly the whole of the UK, it has a long history of paranormal phenomena and apparitions.
Tales of murder and suicide may be behind some of the sightings. Ghost hunters say many people have fled in terror from the infamous room 214 and refused to return even for their belongings. Room 217 has also been the site of unexplained phenomena.
The cellars can provide a frightening experience to those willing to brave them, including poltergeist activity. There are tales of a hotel manager who enticed a servant girl into the cellar before murdering her after she spurned his advances and threatened to tell his wife. Her body is said to have been concealed in a barrel.
On one ghost hunt, a coin was thrown in the cellar and heard to land, only to roll back in the darkness and return to the foot of the person who threw it.
Book a ghost hunt at the Station Hotel here
(Image: PA)
Croft Castle
WHERE: Yarpole, near Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 9PW
The spirit of Welsh freedom fighter Owain Glyndwr - from whom the Croft family are descended - is one of the seven spectres said to still walk the halls of Croft Castle. Those who've seen him say he's 7ft tall and clad in a leather jerkin.
In addition, members of staff have reported many strange occurrences including the cry of a wailing baby and an apparition wearing a grey doublet and hose.
There have also been reports of a woman wearing crinoline and a cap gazing from a window. She is believed to be the ghost of a member of the Croft family who once held a desperate vigil in the house as she waited for money to be sent home by a relative in Ireland.
The National Trust says this ghost has been seen in several locations. One person claims they once entered a room at Croft Castle to meet a friend. The friend jumped up and asked to be introduced to the lady who had followed her in. But, of course, there was no-one there.
Find out more at the National Trust website here
Check out other haunted houses owned by the National Trust here
Become a member of the National Trust here
English Heritage has its own fair share of haunted places - among those in the Midlands is Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire, said to be one of the country's most haunted castles, where staff keep a ghost book for visitors to record their experiences. Find out more here
Four Crosses Inn
WHERE: Watling Street, Four Crosses, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 1RX
This creepy old building is home to many tragic tales that seem to have spawned a ghostly gallery of spirits including a sinister male figure and a number of children who are seen insde the building as well as outside looking through the windows.
Many sightings of a man in a coachman's uniform have been reported over the years, and such a uniform was found inside the chimney breast where it had been hidden for 150 years.
With claims of ghosts known as the Black Eyed Children being seen, strange animals and eerie screeching, it seems like a perfect spot for a chilling encounter.
The Four Crosses was originally built in 1636 from old shipping timbers that are almost 1,000 years old, giving it an even older history than the building itself. Several secret passages have been discovered over the years.
Book a ghost hunt at Four Crosses Inn here or here
Drakelow Tunnels
WHERE: Kingsford Country Park, Kidderminster DY11 5SW
Drakelow Tunnels are a former secret underground military complex beneath Kingsford Country Park, north of Kidderminster,
There are said to be many ghosts and spirits lurking within the huge chambers.
The tunnels sit beneath a sacred hill which may explain why some of the sightings are described as monastic.
The eerie presences are thought to be those people who died here. People have often spoken of seeing strange figures that dart behind walls and hearing footsteps that follow them through the passageways.
Book a ghost hunt at Drakelow Tunnels here or here
Find things to do near you by putting your postcode in the interactive tool below:
The Falstaffs Experience
WHERE: 40 Sheep Street, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6EE
The Tudor building is now a museum and is packed with paranormal phenomena.
Sinister voices, heavy footsteps and a metallic scraping sound are commonly heard at the site, which is said to stand upon five ley lines running through the earth. The ley lines are said to be the cause of energy vortexes on the upper floors through which spirits enter and leave.
Resident spooks include a young pickpocket who tries to remove people's jewellery, a corrupt Justice of the Peace who used to extort money from the locals and a dark, hooded figure with red eyes.
Ghost hunters say the most frightening presence is that of a serial killer. Heavy footsteps, whispering voices and dragging sounds have all been heard during vigils here.
Book a ghost hunt at The Falstaffs Experience here
(Image: Birmingham Post and Mail)
Guy's Cliffe House
WHERE: Guys Cliffe, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 5YD
This Gothic mansion has many areas to investigate with caves, cellars, a ruined house and a Masonic Temple which is particularly active.
Ghostly shapes are often seen wandering around and a lot of poltergeist activity has been reported.
The Masonic Lodge is especially eerie along with a dark basement where strange shadows have been seen.
Heavy footsteps and dragging noises have been heard above the chapel and Guy's Cave is the site of unexplained phenomena in the darkness. Ghost hunters describe the atmosphere as "overwhelmingly petrifying."
Weird lights have been seen here and some people have reported feelings of extreme and sudden nausea.
Book a ghost hunt at Guy's Cliffe House here
(Image: john james)
Warwick Castle
WHERE: Warwick, CV34 4QU
Extreme fluctuations in temperature, strange lights and physical sensations of being pushed and grabbed are said to be common experiences during ghost hunts at Warwick Castle.
One of the most infamous ghost stories connected with Warwick Castle is that of Sir Fulke Greville, who was murdered by a servant who had discovered he did not stand to benefit from his master's will.
His ghost is said to haunt the tower and many people have reported seeing the figure of a man in this area of the Castle and along the Chapel corridor.
Many people have encountered a malevolent and aggressive spirit who lurks in the dungeon, where growling noises can be heard.
Book a ghost hunt at Warwick Castle here
(Image: GRAHAM YOUNG)
St John's House
WHERE: St John's, Warwick CV34 4NF
St John's House is reported to be haunted by many spirits including two sisters who both died tragically in the building.
One burned to death when her clothing caught light by an open fire and the other died of fright after the house was broken into.
Other paranormal activity includes ghostly footsteps and the voices of young girls.
The figure of a woman has also been seen and ghostly children are said to have been seen walking the corridors - some have also reported hearing them laughing and running. There are also ghostly figures lurking in the cellar.
Book a ghost hunt at St John's House here
Haunted Antiques Museum
WHERE: 11a Regent Street, Hinckley LE10 1AW
The Haunted Antiques Museum is inside one of Hinckley's oldest buildings.
It's filled with supernatural exhibits and relics including a voodoo doll and the chilling painting of the Crying Boy, along with a collection of Victorian antiques - all of them contributing to otherwordly activity on the premises.
Ghost hunters report "incredible" experiences including footage of items moving by themselves. They say the whole fabric of the building is now possessed with paranormal power from all the artefacts housed there.
Book a ghost hunt at Haunted Antiques Museum here


birminghammail--2020-10-30--City schools would stay open in a 'circuit break' lockdown

Schools would remain open in the event of a four-week coronavirus 'circuit breaker ' being proposed by the leader of the council , it has been confirmed .
Speaking after calling for a national circuit breaker lockdown during a West Midlands Combined Authority regional briefing today , Cllr Ian Ward said it would be wrong to 'further impeded ' the education of young people .
This is despite recent statistics showing that over a third of new cases in young people under 21 were in school-aged children in the fortnight up to October 18 , with the Office for National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' among secondary school children .
The majority of schools were closed earlier this year as the first wave of the pandemic swept across the country , with thousands of Birmingham pupils being sent home since the summer break for Covid-related reasons .
However Cllr Ward says the majority of school transmissions actually occur on journeys to and from school , or due to gatherings around school gates .
And , while he accepted the messaging around this fact needs to be improved , Cllr Ward stopped short of calling for schools to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breaker that I ’ m suggesting for four weeks would not include the closure of schools , '' he said .
`` Schools do need to remain open because we can not further impede the education of children and young people .
`` The issue at schools , if you look closely at the data , is not when children and young people are actually in school , because measures are being taken to ensure that people are kept safely distanced .
`` The issue is the journey to and from school , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And we do need to get some messaging through to people that , for the journey to and from school , all the rules and all the guidance still need to be adhered to .
`` And , indeed , waiting at school gates , it 's probably even more important that you maintain social distancing and you follow all of the rules and all of the guidance . ''

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
Schools would remain open in the event of a four-week coronavirus 'circuit breaker' being proposed by the leader of the council, it has been confirmed.
Speaking after calling for a national circuit breaker lockdown during a West Midlands Combined Authority regional briefing today, Cllr Ian Ward said it would be wrong to 'further impeded' the education of young people.
This is despite recent statistics showing that over a third of new cases in young people under 21 were in school-aged children in the fortnight up to October 18, with the Office for National Statistics says that cases are 'steeply increasing' among secondary school children.
The majority of schools were closed earlier this year as the first wave of the pandemic swept across the country, with thousands of Birmingham pupils being sent home since the summer break for Covid-related reasons.
However Cllr Ward says the majority of school transmissions actually occur on journeys to and from school, or due to gatherings around school gates.
And, while he accepted the messaging around this fact needs to be improved, Cllr Ward stopped short of calling for schools to close once more.
"The circuit breaker that I’m suggesting for four weeks would not include the closure of schools," he said.
"Schools do need to remain open because we cannot further impede the education of children and young people.
"The issue at schools, if you look closely at the data, is not when children and young people are actually in school, because measures are being taken to ensure that people are kept safely distanced.
"The issue is the journey to and from school, and congregating at school gates.
"And we do need to get some messaging through to people that, for the journey to and from school, all the rules and all the guidance still need to be adhered to.
"And, indeed, waiting at school gates, it's probably even more important that you maintain social distancing and you follow all of the rules and all of the guidance."


birminghammail--2020-10-30--Campaigners protest outside MP's office over free meals issue

Another placard-waving demonstration was held outside a Black Country Tory MP 's office as the controversial free school meals issue rages on .
A number of protesters gathered outside Aldridge-Brownhills MP Wendy Morton 's constituency base on Friday to voice their objections to how she voted in parliament .
Mrs Morton was one of 322 Conservative members who voted against a Labour motion to extend free school meals for eligible children during this week 's half term break .
This protest was the third in the borough this week following one outside Walsall Council House on Monday and another outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday .
Members of the local Labour Party , Walsall and Wolverhampton Unite Community Branch , Momentum Walsall , as well as parents have taken part during the week .
Following the vote in Parliament , Walsall Council decided not to follow other local authorities by paying for vouchers for free school meals .
Leader Mike Bird saying they already supported vulnerable people through the crisis support scheme as well as delivering thousands of food parcels during the Covid crisis .
David Morgan , chairman of the Brownhills Branch Labour Party said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office Minister Wendy Morton voted against providing free school meals to the most vulnerable children in Aldridge-Brownhills and across England .
`` This act is a slap in the face for every family with a vulnerable child .
`` Councillor Bird and Wendy Morton need to think again and work with us to make sure no child in our part of Walsall and beyond goes hungry . ''
Following a campaign by footballer Marcus Rashford , the Government agreed to fund free school meals at Easter and the summer due to financial strains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many Tory MPs defended the current stance saying more money has been invested into universal credit and housing allowances , along with millions in support to councils during the pandemic .

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
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Another placard-waving demonstration was held outside a Black Country Tory MP's office as the controversial free school meals issue rages on.
A number of protesters gathered outside Aldridge-Brownhills MP Wendy Morton's constituency base on Friday to voice their objections to how she voted in parliament.
Mrs Morton was one of 322 Conservative members who voted against a Labour motion to extend free school meals for eligible children during this week's half term break.
This protest was the third in the borough this week following one outside Walsall Council House on Monday and another outside Eddie Hughes MP's office in Bloxwich on Wednesday.
Members of the local Labour Party, Walsall and Wolverhampton Unite Community Branch, Momentum Walsall, as well as parents have taken part during the week.
Following the vote in Parliament, Walsall Council decided not to follow other local authorities by paying for vouchers for free school meals.
Leader Mike Bird saying they already supported vulnerable people through the crisis support scheme as well as delivering thousands of food parcels during the Covid crisis.
David Morgan, chairman of the Brownhills Branch Labour Party said: "Last week Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister Wendy Morton voted against providing free school meals to the most vulnerable children in Aldridge-Brownhills and across England.
"This act is a slap in the face for every family with a vulnerable child.
"Councillor Bird and Wendy Morton need to think again and work with us to make sure no child in our part of Walsall and beyond goes hungry."
Following a campaign by footballer Marcus Rashford, the Government agreed to fund free school meals at Easter and the summer due to financial strains on families caused by lockdown.
But many Tory MPs defended the current stance saying more money has been invested into universal credit and housing allowances, along with millions in support to councils during the pandemic.


birminghammail--2020-10-30--Scientists say national lockdown is only chance of 'saving Christmas'

Scientists believe a national lockdown could 'save Christmas ' and prevent more than 500 Covid deaths a day over winter .
Health chiefs on the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies are reportedly urging Prime Minister Boris Johnson announce a national circuit break .
The group - which advises the Government - said every region will eventually end up with at least Tier 3 restrictions .
And , now , the group at Sage is advising that a national lockdown is needed to save Christmas - but would be longer than two weeks .
Prof Jonathan Van-Tam , the deputy chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PM 's local restrictions at a recent Downing Street briefing but is understood to be changing his mind , The Mirror reports .
Sage advisors are furious their previous warnings of 50,000 new cases and 200 deaths a day were rubbished - despite being proven correct .
New Sage papers released on Friday showed it has advised the Government its previous `` reasonable worse case scenario - of 85,0000 deaths over the course of the winter and more than 500 deaths a day - is set to be exceeded .
As a minimum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pubs and restaurants .
One senior source said : `` It ’ s definitely too late to think that the two week circuit breaker on its own would sort this .
`` It would bring it down a bit , but it would n't be enough to bring it right down .
Now almost certainly it would need to go on for longer . ''
Originally a planned two-week circuit break was suggested for the current half term school break .
It follows evidence that all areas will end up in Tier 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sage advisors that a planned national shutdown for a limited period would be least destructive .
Prof Van Tam gives regular updates on the evolving evidence to ministers and the Telegraph had reported that he warned the current tiers system was not enough to `` get on top of the numbers '' .
One proposal is a national shutdown before Christmas to allow it to be lifted so we can see loved ones over the festive period .
Previous modelling from University College London found a fortnight circuit break would set the Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see the closure of schools , non-essential retail and businesses , leisure and hospitality sectors , as well as online teaching in universities and working from home where possible .
Experts believe a clear start and end date would minimise the damage to business and the impact on people ’ s mental health .
A decision would have to be made about whether schools should be shut , and officials may decide that it would be best to keep them open .
This issue is the reason why some experts thought the October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a circuit-breaker as it would have minimised disruption to education with schools already due to be closed .
It comes after Sage member Prof John Edmunds OBE last week told MPs : “ If we don ’ t take any additional measures , if we just leave it as it is we ’ ll see peaks in the North West , probably in the next four to six weeks .
“ Then the rest of the country are our weeks behind so we will see peaks around Christmas and the New Year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK.
” It comes after Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab insisted a national lockdown would be “ far worse than the effects of trying to be as targeted as possible '' .
`` They 've got the greatest chance of being effective without the downside of the economy , ” he added .
Mr Raab did not rule out creating a new stricter ‘ Tier 4 ’ for areas where Tier 3 has not worked .
But he said : ” We 've seen some evidence since we started putting in place this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has slowed .
`` That is the way we avoid the more drastic measures that we do n't want to take because of the impact they would have on the economy . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Martin Bagot, Jordan Coussins)

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
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Scientists believe a national lockdown could 'save Christmas' and prevent more than 500 Covid deaths a day over winter.
Health chiefs on the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies are reportedly urging Prime Minister Boris Johnson announce a national circuit break.
The group - which advises the Government - said every region will eventually end up with at least Tier 3 restrictions.
And, now, the group at Sage is advising that a national lockdown is needed to save Christmas - but would be longer than two weeks.
Prof Jonathan Van-Tam, the deputy chief medical officer, had publicly backed the PM's local restrictions at a recent Downing Street briefing but is understood to be changing his mind, The Mirror reports.
Sage advisors are furious their previous warnings of 50,000 new cases and 200 deaths a day were rubbished - despite being proven correct.
New Sage papers released on Friday showed it has advised the Government its previous "reasonable worse case scenario - of 85,0000 deaths over the course of the winter and more than 500 deaths a day - is set to be exceeded.
As a minimum advisors are pushing for immediate closures of pubs and restaurants.
One senior source said: "It’s definitely too late to think that the two week circuit breaker on its own would sort this.
"It would bring it down a bit, but it wouldn't be enough to bring it right down. Now almost certainly it would need to go on for longer."
Originally a planned two-week circuit break was suggested for the current half term school break.
It follows evidence that all areas will end up in Tier 3 local lockdown measures and calls from independent Sage advisors that a planned national shutdown for a limited period would be least destructive.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Prof Van Tam gives regular updates on the evolving evidence to ministers and the Telegraph had reported that he warned the current tiers system was not enough to "get on top of the numbers".
One proposal is a national shutdown before Christmas to allow it to be lifted so we can see loved ones over the festive period.
Previous modelling from University College London found a fortnight circuit break would set the Covid-19 outbreak back a month.
It would see the closure of schools, non-essential retail and businesses, leisure and hospitality sectors, as well as online teaching in universities and working from home where possible.
Experts believe a clear start and end date would minimise the damage to business and the impact on people’s mental health.
A decision would have to be made about whether schools should be shut, and officials may decide that it would be best to keep them open.
This issue is the reason why some experts thought the October half-term would have been a good time for a circuit-breaker as it would have minimised disruption to education with schools already due to be closed.
It comes after Sage member Prof John Edmunds OBE last week told MPs: “If we don’t take any additional measures, if we just leave it as it is we’ll see peaks in the North West, probably in the next four to six weeks.
“Then the rest of the country are our weeks behind so we will see peaks around Christmas and the New Year with very severe numbers of cases throughout the UK.”
It comes after Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab insisted a national lockdown would be “far worse than the effects of trying to be as targeted as possible".
"They've got the greatest chance of being effective without the downside of the economy,” he added.
Mr Raab did not rule out creating a new stricter ‘Tier 4’ for areas where Tier 3 has not worked.
But he said: ”We've seen some evidence since we started putting in place this tiered approach that the rate of increase has slowed.
"That is the way we avoid the more drastic measures that we don't want to take because of the impact they would have on the economy."


birminghammail--2020-10-31--Boris Johnson calls emergency Cabinet meeting over new national lockdown

An emergency Cabinet meeting is being held amid `` terrifying '' coronavirus case and death projections today .
Boris Johnson may decide to bring forward announcements on lockdown plans after details were leaked , it has been reported .
The numbers of cases and projections of ICU cases are `` terrifying '' , a senior government figure told Sky News .
`` Politically it would be easier to keep with the regional approach and introduce a new tier rather than nationwide measures , but our first duty is a moral one , '' a senior government figure said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these difficult decisions . ''
The Times said the Prime Minister met with Chancellor Rishi Sunak , Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove and Health Secretary Matt Hancock to discuss `` alarming '' new pandemic data , and that he was expected to hold a press conference on Monday .
Other papers - including The Daily Mail and The Sun - also reported that Boris Johnson was preparing to introduce a national lockdown next week .
It is understood that Downing Street has now launched an investigation to find the source of the story @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted to keep the plan quiet until Monday .
The alleged `` briefing '' of the story sparked criticism from the chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales , claiming it had increased pressure on the emergency services .
It is not the first time Government communications have been criticised over the pandemic .
In September , the Speaker of the House of Commons accused Mr Hancock of `` running this chamber ragged '' by not giving Parliament details of changes in restrictions before the media .
Sir Lindsay Hoyle told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been taken in a fast-moving situation , but timings for statements are known to ministers . ''

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
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
An emergency Cabinet meeting is being held amid "terrifying" coronavirus case and death projections today.
Boris Johnson may decide to bring forward announcements on lockdown plans after details were leaked, it has been reported.
The numbers of cases and projections of ICU cases are "terrifying", a senior government figure told Sky News.
"Politically it would be easier to keep with the regional approach and introduce a new tier rather than nationwide measures, but our first duty is a moral one," a senior government figure said.
"And that makes it easier to take these difficult decisions."
The Times said the Prime Minister met with Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove and Health Secretary Matt Hancock to discuss "alarming" new pandemic data, and that he was expected to hold a press conference on Monday.
Other papers - including The Daily Mail and The Sun - also reported that Boris Johnson was preparing to introduce a national lockdown next week.
It is understood that Downing Street has now launched an investigation to find the source of the story, amid reports that the Government had wanted to keep the plan quiet until Monday.
The alleged "briefing" of the story sparked criticism from the chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales, claiming it had increased pressure on the emergency services.
It is not the first time Government communications have been criticised over the pandemic.
In September, the Speaker of the House of Commons accused Mr Hancock of "running this chamber ragged" by not giving Parliament details of changes in restrictions before the media.
Sir Lindsay Hoyle told MPs: "I accept that decisions have been taken in a fast-moving situation, but timings for statements are known to ministers."


birminghammail--2020-10-31--Boy of 14 shot in street becoming byword for crime

A boy of 14 was shot in a city street which has been plagued by violent crime .
The victim was blasted in the leg in Wheeler Street , Lozells , at about 4.15pm on Friday , October 31 .
He was rushed to hospital but his injuries were not believed to be life-threatening , West Midlands Police said .
No arrests have yet been made .
Two officers were seen cordoning off a section of pavement off Wheeler Street at the entrance to Bunbury Park .
A police spokesperson told BirminghamLive : `` We 're investigating after a 14-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wheeler Street , Newtown , at around 4.15pm yesterday ( 30 October ) .
`` The boy was taken to hospital with an injury which is not believed to be life-threatening .
`` Inquiries are under way and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat , or by calling 101 .
Quote log 3235 of 30 October . ''
The area has faced a number of gun incidents in recent months .
Prominent activist Bishop Desmond Jaddoo said the crimewave prompted some people to live under a self-imposed 9pm curfew due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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
A boy of 14 was shot in a city street which has been plagued by violent crime.
The victim was blasted in the leg in Wheeler Street, Lozells, at about 4.15pm on Friday, October 31.
He was rushed to hospital but his injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, West Midlands Police said.
No arrests have yet been made.
Two officers were seen cordoning off a section of pavement off Wheeler Street at the entrance to Bunbury Park.
A police spokesperson told BirminghamLive: "We're investigating after a 14-year-old boy was shot in the leg in Wheeler Street, Newtown, at around 4.15pm yesterday (30 October).
"The boy was taken to hospital with an injury which is not believed to be life-threatening.
"Inquiries are under way and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat, or by calling 101. Quote log 3235 of 30 October."
The area has faced a number of gun incidents in recent months.
Prominent activist Bishop Desmond Jaddoo said the crimewave prompted some people to live under a self-imposed 9pm curfew due to fear of violence in the community.


birminghammail--2020-10-31--West Midlands Police seize almost 150 vehicles in crackdown on uninsured drivers

Police have seized more than 140 vehicles in an operation to crackdown on uninsured drivers in the West Midlands .
Officers set up ANPR camera systems , which scan thousands of number plates every hour , during targeted operations between Monday and Friday .
The joint operation , with the Motor Insurers ' Bureau ( MIB ) , saw police stop drivers and seize vehicles as part of a nationwide # OpDriveInsured campaign to stop law-breakers .
The MIB estimates around 26,000 people a year are left injured by an uninsured or untraced driver .
Such collisions also cost the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year in emergency services , medical care , loss of productivity and property damage , police said .
Sergeant Jon Butler , from West Midlands Police 's road harm prevention team , said : `` We do n't want to see any uninsured vehicles on our roads and this action was part of our ongoing efforts to tackle the issue .
`` Let ’ s be clear , to drive while being uninsured is unacceptable , illegal and unfair on those who properly insure their vehicles . ''
Police said vehicles can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary documents are not provided to them within seven days .
Those caught driving without insurance face six points on their licence and a £300 fixed penalty notice , or substantial fine if the matter is pursued through the courts .
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson added : “ I introduced police powers to seize and destroy uninsured vehicles as a road safety minister back in 2004 .
This was in answer to the menace of uninsured drivers , who are often in untaxed and unsafe vehicles .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ motorists will welcome this action by West Midlands Police as they are sick of paying the price for uninsured drivers.
” For more information on the law and our powers , police advise motorists to read : https : //west-midlands.police.uk/your-options/vehicle-insurance

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
Police have seized more than 140 vehicles in an operation to crackdown on uninsured drivers in the West Midlands.
Officers set up ANPR camera systems, which scan thousands of number plates every hour, during targeted operations between Monday and Friday.
The joint operation, with the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB), saw police stop drivers and seize vehicles as part of a nationwide #OpDriveInsured campaign to stop law-breakers.
The MIB estimates around 26,000 people a year are left injured by an uninsured or untraced driver. Such collisions also cost the national economy up to £2 billion a year in emergency services, medical care, loss of productivity and property damage, police said.
Sergeant Jon Butler, from West Midlands Police's road harm prevention team, said: "We don't want to see any uninsured vehicles on our roads and this action was part of our ongoing efforts to tackle the issue.
"Let’s be clear, to drive while being uninsured is unacceptable, illegal and unfair on those who properly insure their vehicles."
Police said vehicles can be crushed or sold off at auction if necessary documents are not provided to them within seven days.
Those caught driving without insurance face six points on their licence and a £300 fixed penalty notice, or substantial fine if the matter is pursued through the courts.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson added: “I introduced police powers to seize and destroy uninsured vehicles as a road safety minister back in 2004. This was in answer to the menace of uninsured drivers, who are often in untaxed and unsafe vehicles.
“I know that the vast majority of law-abiding motorists will welcome this action by West Midlands Police as they are sick of paying the price for uninsured drivers.”
For more information on the law and our powers, police advise motorists to read: https://west-midlands.police.uk/your-options/vehicle-insurance


birminghammail--2020-10-31--Villa legend Petrov talks Ross Barkley and Jack Grealish pressure

Ross Barkley 's arrival at Aston Villa eases the pressure on Jack Grealish , says Stiliyan Petrov .
Barkley has made a great start to life at Villa Park on loan from Chelsea , quickly forming an exciting partnership with Grealish and scoring in the 7-2 demolition of champions Liverpool and the 1-0 win at Leicester City .
And Villa legend Petrov told TEAMtalk : `` ( Barkley ) is a great addition to the club .
`` I think he ’ s a very strong player , a quality player which will take the pressure off Jack Grealish as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years the only hope for us has been Jack Grealish performing and Jack Grealish providing . ''
With Barkley and Grealish providing the ammunition for striker Ollie Watkins , Petrov is excited about what his former club can achieve in the Premier League this season .
“ Going forward is really exciting , '' he added .
`` We ’ ve got a very young striker who is hungry to prove himself in the Premier League – Ollie Watkins – who has started really well this season .
`` He ’ s scored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough chances for him so I ’ m looking forward to seeing where he is going to finish at the end of the season with how many goals .
“ The top 10 would be great – a great improvement from last season and this should be the aim and with the performances from the start of the season we have had so far should be a very realistic challenge for the club . ''

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
Ross Barkley's arrival at Aston Villa eases the pressure on Jack Grealish, says Stiliyan Petrov.
Barkley has made a great start to life at Villa Park on loan from Chelsea, quickly forming an exciting partnership with Grealish and scoring in the 7-2 demolition of champions Liverpool and the 1-0 win at Leicester City.
And Villa legend Petrov told TEAMtalk : "(Barkley) is a great addition to the club.
"I think he’s a very strong player, a quality player which will take the pressure off Jack Grealish as well because in the last couple of years the only hope for us has been Jack Grealish performing and Jack Grealish providing."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
With Barkley and Grealish providing the ammunition for striker Ollie Watkins, Petrov is excited about what his former club can achieve in the Premier League this season.
“Going forward is really exciting," he added.
"We’ve got a very young striker who is hungry to prove himself in the Premier League – Ollie Watkins – who has started really well this season.
"He’s scored a couple of goals and we create enough chances for him so I’m looking forward to seeing where he is going to finish at the end of the season with how many goals.
“The top 10 would be great – a great improvement from last season and this should be the aim and with the performances from the start of the season we have had so far should be a very realistic challenge for the club."


birminghammail--2020-10-31--Business slapped with £10,000 super fine for hosting 70-guest wedding

A business owner has been fined £10,000 after hosting a wedding bash for more than 70 people during the coronavirus pandemic .
Viollet Salon , based on a Smethwick industrial estate , was handed the fine on Thursday , October 29 , after police were called to reports of a large wedding on October 10 .
When officers arrived at the Cornwall Road-business they found around 70 people inside - despite coronavirus rules preventing groups of more than six people gathering .
An investigation was launched and the owner was served the £10,000 fine for facilitating the event .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a city shisha cafe after storming inside to find around 150 people crammed together just days after the venue was hit with a £10,000 fine for Covid-19 breaches .
Kasablanca in Birmingham was filled with punters at around 1am on Saturday , October 24 , despite being hit with the hefty penalty for breaking restrictions earlier this month .
Video footage shows how people poured out of the venue when police broke open the doors after being refused entry .
Earlier this month , staff had pulled down shutters at Kasablanca when officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with no social distancing .
Closed-down venues have their orders reviewed every week by the local authority and owners must prove they are complying with the law before reopening , the force said .
Chief Supt Andy Beard said : `` It ’ s unacceptable that these businesses continue to flout the law , putting lives at risk and increasing the risk of infections as this deadly virus continues to spread .
`` This is a difficult time for everyone , but we won ’ t be able to control this pandemic and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this continues to happen .
`` We all need to help stop the spread of coronavirus , and no one is above the law when it comes to that .
`` The vast majority are following the guidelines and we want to say thank you to those people making those personal sacrifices .
`` We ’ re continuing to work with local authorities across the region to tackle this virus and help to protect those who live work and visit the West Midlands in the coming weeks and months . ''

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
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
A business owner has been fined £10,000 after hosting a wedding bash for more than 70 people during the coronavirus pandemic.
Viollet Salon, based on a Smethwick industrial estate, was handed the fine on Thursday, October 29, after police were called to reports of a large wedding on October 10.
When officers arrived at the Cornwall Road-business they found around 70 people inside - despite coronavirus rules preventing groups of more than six people gathering.
An investigation was launched and the owner was served the £10,000 fine for facilitating the event.
In a separate incident, police closed down a city shisha cafe after storming inside to find around 150 people crammed together just days after the venue was hit with a £10,000 fine for Covid-19 breaches.
Kasablanca in Birmingham was filled with punters at around 1am on Saturday, October 24, despite being hit with the hefty penalty for breaking restrictions earlier this month.
Video footage shows how people poured out of the venue when police broke open the doors after being refused entry.
Earlier this month, staff had pulled down shutters at Kasablanca when officers arrived.
They found crowds gathered inside with no social distancing.
Closed-down venues have their orders reviewed every week by the local authority and owners must prove they are complying with the law before reopening, the force said.
Chief Supt Andy Beard said: "It’s unacceptable that these businesses continue to flout the law, putting lives at risk and increasing the risk of infections as this deadly virus continues to spread.
"This is a difficult time for everyone, but we won’t be able to control this pandemic and return to a sense of normality if this continues to happen.
"We all need to help stop the spread of coronavirus, and no one is above the law when it comes to that.
"The vast majority are following the guidelines and we want to say thank you to those people making those personal sacrifices.
"We’re continuing to work with local authorities across the region to tackle this virus and help to protect those who live work and visit the West Midlands in the coming weeks and months."


birminghammail--2020-10-31--How to apply for The Great British Bake Off 2021

The Great British Bake Off has offered some relief during these trying times .
The nation 's favourite baking contest , featuring 12 amateurs , returned earlier this year for its latest season .
And with season 11 rampaging towards its conclusion , applications have opened for the next series .
So do you think you have what it takes to impress Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith in the tent ?
Can you crack a joke and laugh along with Noel Fielding and his co-host Matt Lucas ?
Can you create a stunning showstopper , master a technical and impress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fancy becoming the next Nadiya , we have all the details you need below .
Producers told BirminghamLive : `` Have you got what it takes to bake in the tent ?
`` We ’ re looking for the next batch of bakers for the twelfth series of The Great British Bake Off .
`` If you or someone you know is a talented home baker then apply now at www.applyforbakeoff.co.uk or call 0207 067 4837 for an application form .
`` Closing date for applications is 23.59 on Sunday 6 th December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are closely monitoring the situation regarding Covid-19 and we are following the advice of Public Health England .
As a result , we may adjust how or when we carry out auditions .
The safety and welfare of everyone involved in our productions is always paramount . ''
The Great British Bake Off continues to air each Tuesday from 8pm on Channel 4 and is available now on All 4 , the streaming service , too .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss any TV and showbiz news - sign up to free alerts
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss any TV and showbiz news - sign up to free alerts
The Great British Bake Off has offered some relief during these trying times.
The nation's favourite baking contest, featuring 12 amateurs, returned earlier this year for its latest season.
And with season 11 rampaging towards its conclusion, applications have opened for the next series.
So do you think you have what it takes to impress Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith in the tent? Can you crack a joke and laugh along with Noel Fielding and his co-host Matt Lucas? Can you create a stunning showstopper, master a technical and impress during a tough signature?
If you fancy becoming the next Nadiya, we have all the details you need below.
Producers told BirminghamLive: "Have you got what it takes to bake in the tent?
"We’re looking for the next batch of bakers for the twelfth series of The Great British Bake Off.
"If you or someone you know is a talented home baker then apply now at www.applyforbakeoff.co.uk or call 0207 067 4837 for an application form.
"Closing date for applications is 23.59 on Sunday 6 th December 2020."
It added: "We are closely monitoring the situation regarding Covid-19 and we are following the advice of Public Health England. As a result, we may adjust how or when we carry out auditions. The safety and welfare of everyone involved in our productions is always paramount."
The Great British Bake Off continues to air each Tuesday from 8pm on Channel 4 and is available now on All 4, the streaming service, too.


birminghammail--2020-10-31--New lockdown could be announced BEFORE Monday amid government fury at leak

The government is sensationally `` changing plans '' amid fury from ministers at a leak to the press over an impending second national lockdown .
Number 10 Downing Street has launched official leak inquiry via the Cabinet Secretary , Sky News is reporting .
It comes after details of a meeting between the Prime Minister , Health Secretary and Chancellor were leaked on Friday evening .
Matt Hancock , Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak met , alongside Michael Gove , on Friday afternoon .
The Times reported they decided to announce a new lockdown as early as Monday .
No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday and now having to change plans , Sky reports .
`` There are some very furious people in govt this morning , '' journalist Beth Rigby tweeted .
`` There is now a cabinet briefing and 30 minute call just after lunch . ''
Mr Johnson is expected to announce new measures for England on Monday , which could see everywhere except essential shops and education settings closed for a month .
The idea of tougher restrictions in the run-up to Christmas has been touted as a way to reduce infections so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - seen as inevitable by some - are safer .
Downing Street has previously said it is the Government 's ambition to `` ensure that people may celebrate Christmas as a family this year '' .
In Wales , First Minister Mark Drakeford has said the current `` firebreak '' restrictions should give a pathway to Christmas `` without needing a period of this severity of restraint between now and then '' .
Mr Johnson has so far resisted pressure to introduce nationwide restrictions , opting instead for a localised tier system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ action after new data showed the extent of cases across England .
The Office for National Statistics estimated that 568,100 people in households were infected with coronavirus in the week ending October 23 , and Government scientific advisers believe it is now too late for a two-week national circuit-breaker to have enough of an effect .

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
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
The government is sensationally "changing plans" amid fury from ministers at a leak to the press over an impending second national lockdown.
Number 10 Downing Street has launched official leak inquiry via the Cabinet Secretary, Sky News is reporting.
It comes after details of a meeting between the Prime Minister, Health Secretary and Chancellor were leaked on Friday evening.
Matt Hancock, Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak met, alongside Michael Gove, on Friday afternoon. The Times reported they decided to announce a new lockdown as early as Monday.
No 10 had wanted to hold announcements until Monday and now having to change plans, Sky reports.
"There are some very furious people in govt this morning," journalist Beth Rigby tweeted. "There is now a cabinet briefing and 30 minute call just after lunch."
Mr Johnson is expected to announce new measures for England on Monday, which could see everywhere except essential shops and education settings closed for a month.
The idea of tougher restrictions in the run-up to Christmas has been touted as a way to reduce infections so that family gatherings over the festive period - seen as inevitable by some - are safer.
Downing Street has previously said it is the Government's ambition to "ensure that people may celebrate Christmas as a family this year".
In Wales, First Minister Mark Drakeford has said the current "firebreak" restrictions should give a pathway to Christmas "without needing a period of this severity of restraint between now and then".
(Image: PA)
Mr Johnson has so far resisted pressure to introduce nationwide restrictions, opting instead for a localised tier system, but he is facing fresh calls for action after new data showed the extent of cases across England.
The Office for National Statistics estimated that 568,100 people in households were infected with coronavirus in the week ending October 23, and Government scientific advisers believe it is now too late for a two-week national circuit-breaker to have enough of an effect.


birminghammail--2020-10-31--Brummies spot gaping issue with new national lockdown set to be announced

Brummies have spotted a gaping hole in the proposed second national lockdown ahead of Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's press conference on Monday .
Reports on Friday evening suggested the PM will address the nation on Monday , following calls for a new , national lockdown .
Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward echoed the calls of Sage and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer on Friday at a key regional briefing .
The PM met with cabinet ministers yesterday and is now poised to unveil strict new restrictions and measures across the nation .
Mr Johnson will force non-essential shops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venues , it is understood .
But schools and universities wo n't be affected - leading to many BirminghamLive readers saying it likely wo n't have any effect .
Darren wrote : `` It ’ s evident current tier restrictions are not effective and why so many regions are been moved to a higher Tier , and so soon .
We have to stop the virus spreading again and protect everyone .
If that ’ s a lockdown then so be it , but we can not have a 3rd merry go round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be learned .
Don ’ t let what happened to me happen to you or your loved ones .
Stay safe and well . ''
But Frank wrote : `` The realism of this virus is that you will never control it .
Unless you live in a utopian world you just have to get used to it .
So the decision is that you open everything up and get on with it '' Colin fumed : `` This could have been sorted in half term .
There ’ ll be understandable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as people are confused and covid fatigued .
Dithering will now cause disorders .
Badly managed . ''
`` This should of been done in half term so its safe for everyone in schools to mix and parents droping them but you cant see family or do christmas shopping so wrong , '' Julie wrote .
Jayne fumed : `` If we are going into full lockdown it should be ‘ full ’ lockdown and schools and universities should close .
The last lockdown was lifted too soon and there is no way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ universities still open is going to have the desired outcome . ''
Sarah agreed , writing : `` Last time the government only shut schools because so many parents had already taken matters into their own hands and stopped sending their kids .
That needs to happen again , it ’ s the only way for schools to close . ''
Rachel wrote : `` You ca n't keep locking everything down .
People need to live , buisnesses need to thrive to stop them going under , children need an education and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impact lockdown has had on mental health ! ''
`` Schools need to close to in this lockdown for a month it ’ s all a joke , '' Lisa wrote .
`` If people abide by it good but they won ’ t .
Also schools etc still open so how ’ s that going to stop the spread ? ''
Jackie asked .
`` Don ’ t think a lockdown with schools open will work , '' Dave agreed .
Glenn wrote : `` So the children off school ?
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not a lock down . ''

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
Brummies have spotted a gaping hole in the proposed second national lockdown ahead of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's press conference on Monday.
Reports on Friday evening suggested the PM will address the nation on Monday, following calls for a new, national lockdown.
Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward echoed the calls of Sage and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer on Friday at a key regional briefing.
The PM met with cabinet ministers yesterday and is now poised to unveil strict new restrictions and measures across the nation.
Mr Johnson will force non-essential shops to close, as well as hospitality venues, it is understood. But schools and universities won't be affected - leading to many BirminghamLive readers saying it likely won't have any effect.
Darren wrote: "It’s evident current tier restrictions are not effective and why so many regions are been moved to a higher Tier, and so soon. We have to stop the virus spreading again and protect everyone. If that’s a lockdown then so be it, but we cannot have a 3rd merry go round a few weeks later. Lessons have to be learned. Don’t let what happened to me happen to you or your loved ones. Stay safe and well."
But Frank wrote: "The realism of this virus is that you will never control it . Unless you live in a utopian world you just have to get used to it. So the decision is that you open everything up and get on with it"
Colin fumed: "This could have been sorted in half term. There’ll be understandable, massive resistance to this all over as people are confused and covid fatigued. Dithering will now cause disorders. Badly managed."
"This should of been done in half term so its safe for everyone in schools to mix and parents droping them but you cant see family or do christmas shopping so wrong," Julie wrote.
Jayne fumed: "If we are going into full lockdown it should be ‘full’ lockdown and schools and universities should close. The last lockdown was lifted too soon and there is no way a 4 week one with schools and universities still open is going to have the desired outcome."
(Image: Getty Images)
Sarah agreed, writing: "Last time the government only shut schools because so many parents had already taken matters into their own hands and stopped sending their kids. That needs to happen again, it’s the only way for schools to close."
Rachel wrote: "You can't keep locking everything down. People need to live, buisnesses need to thrive to stop them going under, children need an education and let's not get started on the impact lockdown has had on mental health!"
"Schools need to close to in this lockdown for a month it’s all a joke," Lisa wrote.
(Image: Getty Images)
"If people abide by it good but they won’t. Also schools etc still open so how’s that going to stop the spread?" Jackie asked.
"Don’t think a lockdown with schools open will work," Dave agreed.
Glenn wrote: "So the children off school? If they aren't.... this is not a lock down."