birminghammail--2020-11-12--Police urge city protest organisers to contact them to ensure 'safety'

Police are urging the organisers of a planned protest in Wolverhampton this weekend to contact them so they can ensure 'safety ' .
West Midlands Police officers say they are aware of the planned protest that is due to take place in Wolverhampton on Saturday , November 14 .
It has also urged organisers - and those wishing to attend - to comply with the latest government guidance regarding protests during national lockdown , which runs until December .
A spokesman for the force said : `` So far we have not had any contact from the event organiser and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with us as soon as possible , so we can ensure the safety of the event is considered and we can give them vital information that they will require and need to know .
`` We would also ask event organisers and people attending to familiarise themselves with the latest government guidance regarding protests during national lockdown .
`` Coronavirus remains a deadly disease and there are national lockdown restrictions in place to prevent its spread .
We continue to encourage people to comply with the regulations to keep everyone as safe as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place proportionate policing plans for protests working with communities and those taking part wherever possible . ''
The event organisers are being urged to call West Midlands Police on 101 .

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Police are urging the organisers of a planned protest in Wolverhampton this weekend to contact them so they can ensure 'safety'.
West Midlands Police officers say they are aware of the planned protest that is due to take place in Wolverhampton on Saturday, November 14.
It has also urged organisers - and those wishing to attend - to comply with the latest government guidance regarding protests during national lockdown, which runs until December.
A spokesman for the force said: "So far we have not had any contact from the event organiser and we are urging them to make contact with us as soon as possible, so we can ensure the safety of the event is considered and we can give them vital information that they will require and need to know.
"We would also ask event organisers and people attending to familiarise themselves with the latest government guidance regarding protests during national lockdown.
"Coronavirus remains a deadly disease and there are national lockdown restrictions in place to prevent its spread. We continue to encourage people to comply with the regulations to keep everyone as safe as possible.
"We will put in place proportionate policing plans for protests working with communities and those taking part wherever possible."
The event organisers are being urged to call West Midlands Police on 101.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Gang with meat cleaver storm 'wrong' home and demand cash

A man was threatened with a meat cleaver after a gang of bungling raiders stormed the wrong Walsall flat and demanded cash .
West Midlands Police said it received a report that the trio stormed an address in Brookland Road , Walsall Wood , at around midday on Sunday , November 8 .
One man was armed with a meat cleaver and they demanded cash from a man inside the property .
They are believed to have 'got the wrong address ' and are said to have fled empty handed and did not damage the home .
Despite the frightening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make a formal complaint .
A spokesman for the force said : `` We received a report of three men storming into a flat in Brookland Road , Walsall Wood , at around midday on Sunday ( November 8 ) .
`` One was armed with a meat cleaver and they demanded cash from a man inside the property .
`` It ’ s understood they then said it was the wrong address and left empty handed , and without causing any damage .
The man at the address did n't want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''

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A man was threatened with a meat cleaver after a gang of bungling raiders stormed the wrong Walsall flat and demanded cash.
West Midlands Police said it received a report that the trio stormed an address in Brookland Road, Walsall Wood, at around midday on Sunday, November 8.
One man was armed with a meat cleaver and they demanded cash from a man inside the property.
They are believed to have 'got the wrong address' and are said to have fled empty handed and did not damage the home.
Despite the frightening ordeal, the victim did not want to make a formal complaint.
A spokesman for the force said: "We received a report of three men storming into a flat in Brookland Road, Walsall Wood, at around midday on Sunday (November 8).
"One was armed with a meat cleaver and they demanded cash from a man inside the property.
"It’s understood they then said it was the wrong address and left empty handed, and without causing any damage. The man at the address didn't want to make a formal complaint to officers."


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Castle coins, dungeon trials and courtyard laundry - I'm A Celeb 2020 revealed

It 'll be a far cry from the Australian jungle .
But ITV favourite I 'm A Celebrity is set to return to our screens in a matter of days - and this time the campmates will be 'roughing it ' in the ruins of a Welsh castle .
Last year ’ s series regularly boasted over ten million viewers and despite the coronavirus pandemic TV bosses were determined to press ahead with this year ’ s 20th series , hosted by Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly .
Filming has moved from the Australian bush to Gwrych Castle , North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celeb participants will be expected to stay awake until 3am taking part in trials .
In an interview with the Mirror , show bosses have revealed some tightly-kept secrets just days ahead of the show premiere .
The infamous jungle shower has been replaced with a watering can , beds will be scattered around the ruins - a world away from the accommodation the celebs will be used to with no heating , broken windows and moss growing on the stone walls .
Campmates will be guided down stairs and into trials by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be near freezing they will need thermals to stay warm .
But just like Australia , the stars WILL be made to empty the loo - but the Castle Privvy will take the place of the Dunny .
Executive producer Tom Gould told the Mirror : “ We want to retain what I 'm A Celebrity is but wanting to draw on the castle and the setting to give it that unique new feel .
I hope that is what we have done .
Once we decided and committed to it , doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a chance to reinvent but also keep the parts we know viewers know and love and recognise.
” Speaking about the infamous I 'm A Celeb shower , he said : “ It is not a one man job in the castle , you need your friend to pump and it comes out of a watering can .
You have got a bit more privacy than you have in the jungle with a modesty screen , but not a huge amount of privacy.
” '' The trials are going to happen after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day has been flipped .
The trials happen at the end of the day and whatever food they have won will be brought pretty swiftly in to camp .
Trials will happen in places including the dungeons and the crypt.
” Celebs will do their washing up , laundry and drying in the castle 's courtyard .
`` They will be collecting wood and operating a wood splitter .
The boiler has to be kept full of logs and they have to prime the boiler to get it to the right pressure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gould added .
“ This is what they are going to have to do to get any sort of warm water and they will need to do it for half an hour to get it working so it will be a major part of their chores.
” This year contestants will be competing for Castle Coins instead of Dingo Dollars and treats will be dished out at Ye Olde Shoppe or Yr Hen Siop instead of the Outback Shack .
And when the time comes for contestants to leave they will head out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doors .
Around £300,000 has been handed over to the castle , which has gone on to save jobs in the area and create new ones .
Founder and head of the Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust , Mark Baker said earlier this week : “ It would usually take us over two years to raise £300,000 .
With the second wave of Covid , the programme has saved not only us but many local businesses .
Hundreds of jobs have kept going because ITV have employed them on site.
” Despite the stars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there 's already a clear favourite with the bookies .
Sir Mo Farah , Jordan North and Vernon Kay are just some of the ten celebrities taking part , alongside the likes of Beverly Callard , Giovanna Fletcher , Victoria Derbyshire and AJ Pritchard .
And , according to bookies , it is Giovanna - the wife of McFly star Tom - who is favourite to become Queen of the Jungle .

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It'll be a far cry from the Australian jungle.
But ITV favourite I'm A Celebrity is set to return to our screens in a matter of days - and this time the campmates will be 'roughing it' in the ruins of a Welsh castle.
Last year’s series regularly boasted over ten million viewers and despite the coronavirus pandemic TV bosses were determined to press ahead with this year’s 20th series, hosted by Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly.
Filming has moved from the Australian bush to Gwrych Castle, North Wales, where this year's ten celeb participants will be expected to stay awake until 3am taking part in trials.
In an interview with the Mirror, show bosses have revealed some tightly-kept secrets just days ahead of the show premiere.
The infamous jungle shower has been replaced with a watering can, beds will be scattered around the ruins - a world away from the accommodation the celebs will be used to with no heating, broken windows and moss growing on the stone walls.
Campmates will be guided down stairs and into trials by fire lanterns and with temperatures expected to be near freezing they will need thermals to stay warm.
But just like Australia, the stars WILL be made to empty the loo - but the Castle Privvy will take the place of the Dunny.
Executive producer Tom Gould told the Mirror: “We want to retain what I'm A Celebrity is but wanting to draw on the castle and the setting to give it that unique new feel. I hope that is what we have done. Once we decided and committed to it, doing this has been a labour of love and a chance to reinvent but also keep the parts we know viewers know and love and recognise.”
Speaking about the infamous I'm A Celeb shower, he said: “It is not a one man job in the castle, you need your friend to pump and it comes out of a watering can. You have got a bit more privacy than you have in the jungle with a modesty screen, but not a huge amount of privacy.”
"The trials are going to happen after the live show at night so the day has been flipped. The trials happen at the end of the day and whatever food they have won will be brought pretty swiftly in to camp. Trials will happen in places including the dungeons and the crypt.”
Celebs will do their washing up, laundry and drying in the castle's courtyard.
"They will be collecting wood and operating a wood splitter. The boiler has to be kept full of logs and they have to prime the boiler to get it to the right pressure to give them luke warm water," Gould added.
“This is what they are going to have to do to get any sort of warm water and they will need to do it for half an hour to get it working so it will be a major part of their chores.”
This year contestants will be competing for Castle Coins instead of Dingo Dollars and treats will be dished out at Ye Olde Shoppe or Yr Hen Siop instead of the Outback Shack.
And when the time comes for contestants to leave they will head out through a portcullis gate and huge castle doors.
Around £300,000 has been handed over to the castle, which has gone on to save jobs in the area and create new ones.
Founder and head of the Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust, Mark Baker said earlier this week: “It would usually take us over two years to raise £300,000. With the second wave of Covid, the programme has saved not only us but many local businesses. Hundreds of jobs have kept going because ITV have employed them on site.”
Despite the stars not yet setting foot in the ruins, there's already a clear favourite with the bookies.
Sir Mo Farah, Jordan North and Vernon Kay are just some of the ten celebrities taking part, alongside the likes of Beverly Callard, Giovanna Fletcher, Victoria Derbyshire and AJ Pritchard.
And, according to bookies, it is Giovanna - the wife of McFly star Tom - who is favourite to become Queen of the Jungle.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Ross Barkley sent Chelsea message over permanent Aston Villa move

Chelsea fans have had their say on Ross Barkley 's future amid Gabby Agbonlahor 's warning to Aston Villa about a permanent deal for the midfielder .
Barkley , 26 , joined Villa on a season-long loan towards the end of the transfer window and he 's enjoyed a superb start to life under Dean Smith .
Agbonlahor told Football Insider : `` There ’ s no rush ( to decide his future ) .
I think at the moment they ’ ve got him on loan for the season , they ’ ll see how he does all through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of the season .
`` It might be something they want to make permanent at the end of the season .
`` I ’ m sure there will be a big fee because Chelsea will value him and let ’ s not forget he ’ s a similar age to Jack Grealish and if he can keep producing his current form Chelsea will definitely want a high fee .
`` Chelsea might even want to bring him back in their team .
I think we ’ ve just got to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and try and get the best out of him . ''
There is no option-to-buy included in the loan agreement , meaning the ball is in Chelsea 's court when it comes to the 26-year-old 's long-term future .
Chelsea fans have been discussing the prospect of a permanent exit for Barkley on social media , with one saying : `` If 4-3-3 was the long term plan ( I hope ) then I ’ d love to keep him due to the lack of ‘ no 8 ’ s ’ , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bad game , he ’ d get dropped and maybe not given the chance like others .
He ’ s definitely proving his worth at Villa this season already though . ''
Another posted : `` If he comes back to Chelsea he would be a very good squad player , he always has been , '' before admitting : `` But he is proving at Villa that he really can excel when given consistent game time .
Think for him staying at Villa after the loan would be best move for his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get close to £50m , '' was the clear message from another supporter .
While a fourth added : `` Sell all day long .
I think we got him for £15million we can easily get £30 million for him . ''

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Chelsea fans have had their say on Ross Barkley's future amid Gabby Agbonlahor's warning to Aston Villa about a permanent deal for the midfielder.
Barkley, 26, joined Villa on a season-long loan towards the end of the transfer window and he's enjoyed a superb start to life under Dean Smith.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider: "There’s no rush (to decide his future). I think at the moment they’ve got him on loan for the season, they’ll see how he does all through the season and then judge the situation at the end of the season.
"It might be something they want to make permanent at the end of the season.
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"I’m sure there will be a big fee because Chelsea will value him and let’s not forget he’s a similar age to Jack Grealish and if he can keep producing his current form Chelsea will definitely want a high fee.
"Chelsea might even want to bring him back in their team. I think we’ve just got to enjoy him while he’s here and try and get the best out of him."
There is no option-to-buy included in the loan agreement, meaning the ball is in Chelsea's court when it comes to the 26-year-old's long-term future.
Chelsea fans have been discussing the prospect of a permanent exit for Barkley on social media, with one saying: "If 4-3-3 was the long term plan (I hope) then I’d love to keep him due to the lack of ‘no 8’s’, the only issue is if he has a bad game, he’d get dropped and maybe not given the chance like others. He’s definitely proving his worth at Villa this season already though."
Another posted: "If he comes back to Chelsea he would be a very good squad player, he always has been," before admitting: "But he is proving at Villa that he really can excel when given consistent game time. Think for him staying at Villa after the loan would be best move for his career.
"Sell. Try to get close to £50m," was the clear message from another supporter.
While a fourth added: "Sell all day long. I think we got him for £15million we can easily get £30 million for him."


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Urgent search for missing girl, 12, who vanished after leaving school

Police are urgently searching for girl who vanished after leaving school .
Merissa Matthews , aged 12 , failed to @ @ @ @ @ Frankley after finishing school on Thursday , November 12 .
Officers say they are concerned @ @ @ @ @ are urging anyone with information on her whereabouts to come forward .
The schoolgirl was @ @ @ @ @ hoodie , black trousers , a white school shirt and black Nike trainers .
Anyone @ @ @ @ @ call West Midlands Police on 101 .
A West Midlands Police appeal issued tonight read @ @ @ @ @ 12-year-old Merissa Matthews ?
`` Merissa did not return to her home in Frankley after @ @ @ @ @ concerned for her safety .
`` Merissa is 5ft 1 in tall and has long @ @ @ @ @ is wearing a black hoodie , black trousers , a white school shirt and black @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Please contact us urgently if you see her or know where she is @ @ @ @ @

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Police are urgently searching for girl who vanished after leaving school.
Merissa Matthews, aged 12, failed to return to her home in Frankley after finishing school on Thursday, November 12.
Officers say they are concerned for the youngsters safety and are urging anyone with information on her whereabouts to come forward.
The schoolgirl was last seen wearing a black hoodie, black trousers, a white school shirt and black Nike trainers.
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Anyone with information is urged to call West Midlands Police on 101.
A West Midlands Police appeal issued tonight read: "Have you seen 12-year-old Merissa Matthews?
"Merissa did not return to her home in Frankley after school today and we are concerned for her safety.
"Merissa is 5ft 1 in tall and has long straight brown hair. She is wearing a black hoodie, black trousers, a white school shirt and black Nike trainers with white soles.
"Please contact us urgently if you see her or know where she is by calling 101."


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Family's heartbreaking tribute to Walsall nan killed by oxygen tank fire

The heartbroken family of a woman killed during a tragic accident at her home have paid tribute to the devoted wife , mum and nan .
Lynn Hadley died after an oxygen tank sparked and set fire to her chair while she was being treated by medics at her home in New Street , Walsall .
Following the 67-year-old 's tragic `` unexpected '' death , Ms Hadley 's family have issued a heartfelt statement in her memory .
They said : `` We have been devastated by the loss of such a wonderful wife , mother and nan .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 48 years , her four children and eight grandchildren .
`` She had a number of hobbies , from gardening to drawing , and particularly enjoyed creating impressive wedding flower arrangements for the family – from bouquets and table decorations to bridesmaid flowers , which added an incredibly personal touch for us .
`` Not a day goes by that we do not mourn the loss of someone we loved so much , who was taken from us so suddenly and unexpectedly .
It continues to be an ongoing struggle for us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5pm on Easter Monday ( April 13 ) , after the suspected coronavirus sufferer reported breathing difficulties .
West Midlands Ambulance Service crew were called to her home in New Street , Shelfield .
While medics administered treatment using an oxygen tank , sparks flew from the device and set Ms Hadley ’ s armchair alight .
'Ongoing struggle for us all' Her family added : `` As a family , we have also had to endure some inaccuracies surrounding the circumstances of her death , which has led to some unwarranted and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As you can imagine , this has led to additional stress and pain for the whole family at an incredibly difficult time when all we wish to do is to remember a family member so dear to us .
`` We are therefore grateful that the coroner heard evidence of the findings of the West Midlands Ambulance Service and West Midlands Fire Service investigation reports , which go some way to clearing up exactly what contributed to Lynn ’ s death on the day . ''
Following a three-day inquest at Black Country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s death was recorded as accidental .
The head juror told the court : `` The deceased , Lynn Hadley , came to her death by the most likely cause of adiabatic compression due to a particle displacement found in the oxygen cylinder . ''
A spokesman for Shoosmiths LLP said the Ambulance Service report identified that the attending paramedic was not trained in accordance with the manufacturer ’ s instructions for the operation of medical oxygen cylinders and did not open the cylinder in the correct sequence .
The Fire Service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chance of ignition occurring .
The Hadley family added : `` Finally , we are pleased that the Ambulance Service has learned from these failings and taken steps to ensure that its staff are , or will be , fully trained in the correct use of medical gas cylinders to avoid the potentially fatal risks surrounding their mis-assembly in future . ''

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The heartbroken family of a woman killed during a tragic accident at her home have paid tribute to the devoted wife, mum and nan.
Lynn Hadley died after an oxygen tank sparked and set fire to her chair while she was being treated by medics at her home in New Street, Walsall.
Following the 67-year-old's tragic "unexpected" death, Ms Hadley's family have issued a heartfelt statement in her memory.
They said: "We have been devastated by the loss of such a wonderful wife, mother and nan. She was completely devoted to her husband of 48 years, her four children and eight grandchildren.
"She had a number of hobbies, from gardening to drawing, and particularly enjoyed creating impressive wedding flower arrangements for the family – from bouquets and table decorations to bridesmaid flowers, which added an incredibly personal touch for us.
"Not a day goes by that we do not mourn the loss of someone we loved so much, who was taken from us so suddenly and unexpectedly. It continues to be an ongoing struggle for us all."
Tragedy struck just after 5pm on Easter Monday (April 13), after the suspected coronavirus sufferer reported breathing difficulties.
West Midlands Ambulance Service crew were called to her home in New Street, Shelfield.
While medics administered treatment using an oxygen tank, sparks flew from the device and set Ms Hadley’s armchair alight.
Sadly, she suffered fatal burn injuries.
'Ongoing struggle for us all'
Her family added: "As a family, we have also had to endure some inaccuracies surrounding the circumstances of her death, which has led to some unwarranted and hurtful comments across social media.
"As you can imagine, this has led to additional stress and pain for the whole family at an incredibly difficult time when all we wish to do is to remember a family member so dear to us.
"We are therefore grateful that the coroner heard evidence of the findings of the West Midlands Ambulance Service and West Midlands Fire Service investigation reports, which go some way to clearing up exactly what contributed to Lynn’s death on the day."
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Following a three-day inquest at Black Country Coroner’s Court, Mrs Hadley’s death was recorded as accidental.
The head juror told the court: "The deceased, Lynn Hadley, came to her death by the most likely cause of adiabatic compression due to a particle displacement found in the oxygen cylinder."
A spokesman for Shoosmiths LLP said the Ambulance Service report identified that the attending paramedic was not trained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for the operation of medical oxygen cylinders and did not open the cylinder in the correct sequence.
The Fire Service report concluded that this incorrect sequence increased the chance of ignition occurring.
The Hadley family added: "Finally, we are pleased that the Ambulance Service has learned from these failings and taken steps to ensure that its staff are, or will be, fully trained in the correct use of medical gas cylinders to avoid the potentially fatal risks surrounding their mis-assembly in future."


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Birmingham's best ever Christmas lights switched on with no fanfare

Birmingham 's best ever Christmas lights have been switched on - and there was barely anyone there to notice .
Exactly a week after the year 's second lockdown began on November 5 - the day the 21st annual German Market should have opened earlier than ever before had it not been cancelled on September 9 - this year 's festive lights have been switched on without any kind of fanfare .
The 2020 lights would have done the city proud in any era , especially in the days when counting down to the flick of the switch was one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's diary .
But that was until 2009 when four people were seriously injured in a crush at a free concert given by X Factor stars JLS .
Since 2015 , the diminished event has been timed to coincide with the opening of the Birmingham German Market Christmas Market in Victoria Square ( in the days when it began after Armistice Day ) .
Regardless of the effort put in to the actual moment of illumination , the lighting up of the city 's streets would be the official sign that the pre-Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earnest .
For those visiting the hugely popular German Market in the last five years , it was also the signal to gather round a bratwurst stall or ice-cold beer bar with friends , family or work colleagues ready to reaffirm a collective love for each other at the tail end of another year of work .
But what a difference Covid-19 has made to that sense of camaraderie as you can see in our start of lockdown contrast between 2019 and 2020 With social distancing imperative to reduce the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ switched on in daylight this morning to make sure they worked .
And , of course , in good time for them to glow their way into the city 's night time air via twilight .
The LED lights in key shopping areas like New Street are bigger and better than we 've seen before , with the kind of purple hue we might expect to enjoy on stage at a giant Birmingham Hippodrome panto .
Local business group Retail BID Birmingham has helped to fund the improvements as well as again providing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trees in the usually busy thoroughfare .
A BID spokesman said : `` Everyone felt it was right to put the lights on to brighten up the streets in the absence this year of the German Market .
`` There might not be as many people here as usual at the moment .
`` But we hope they will help to make the streets safer on dark nights for those who still live and work in the area as well as providing a sense of optimism that shops will reopen after lockdown is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' In more recent times , it became the fashion to try to have bigger and better events to coincide with the lights being switched on .
All of that ended 11 years ago on Saturday , November 14 , 2009 when X Factor sensations JLS were hired to appear in Millennium Point .
Back then , the Curzon Street side of the building was a giant , block-paved area - later to become Eastside City Park which opened three years later in December 2012 .
So many fans turned up , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police lines .
Sixty people were injured , including four seriously , as the event descended into chaos and some of those at the front of the 20,000-plus crowd were crushed .
Gemma Cartwright from Kings Norton told us that it was the worst experience of her life .
The NHS worker , who took her four children and her mother to see JLS , thought she was going to see a repeat of the Hillsborough tragedy , in which 96 football fans died .
“ I was being crushed , ” she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pushed up against the barrier and I had nowhere to go .
My kids were hysterical .
“ A young girl fainted in front of me and had to be passed over the crowd to the ambulance crew .
“ I feel sorry for the police .
They seemed to be outnumbered and weren ’ t coping .
Birmingham Council should be ashamed .
The place they chose wasn ’ t big enough to hold such an event.
” Since that terrible night , even Santa 's traditional parade around town had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The event was said to cost £50,000 but it was held for the last time in 2014 .
The parade was scrapped in 2015 after austerity saw Birmingham City Council 's budget being slashed by £105 million and no sponsors were found .
The lights switch on took place on November 12 , 2015 and became part of the opening day activities on the Frankfurt Christmas Market as it 's formally known .
Today , it 's already two years since the famous House of Fraser grotto was open for the eighth and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Father Christmas in a winter wonderland setting .
The set was retained on the firth floor all year round , but would be reopened every November to raise money for charity .
In its later years its snow scenes and cobbled streets were spray painted to wonderful effect by the Wolverhampton graffiti artist Temper After Mike Ashley bought the company and there was uncertainty about its future pending plans to redevelop the site , the grotto was kept closed last year .
A member of staff who asked not to be named told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't cancelled '' We 've pulled out the stops to decorate the rest of the store better than ever before .
Even though the store has experienced a revival this year when allowed to open , no retail enthusiast last December could have foreseen that all 'non-essential ' shops would have spent most of 2020 unable to open .
Nobody would have predicted there would be no 21st anniversary Birmingham German Christmas Market .
No return of Ice Skate Birmingham 's Big Wheel and Ice Rink to Centenary Square And certainly nobody would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on would have been as low key as the one today .
Archive pictures of Corporation Street show how seriously the city used to take Christmas even as recently as the 1980s .
The road in front of Rackhams ( now House of Fraser ) looked magnificent when lit by thousands of bulbs .
Since the West Midlands Metro opened in May , 2016 , the street has been a shadow of its former self despite some local traders calling for uplighters to replace the kind of lights which can not not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electric trams .
Looking on the bright side , at least the festive images created by LED technology mean that other streets can now be lit up in more creative ways than ever .
And , in the spirit of a greener world , the LED displays also cost a lot less to illuminate than the old fashioned bulbs .

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Birmingham's best ever Christmas lights have been switched on - and there was barely anyone there to notice.
Exactly a week after the year's second lockdown began on November 5 - the day the 21st annual German Market should have opened earlier than ever before had it not been cancelled on September 9 - this year's festive lights have been switched on without any kind of fanfare.
The 2020 lights would have done the city proud in any era, especially in the days when counting down to the flick of the switch was one of the key dates in the city's diary.
But that was until 2009 when four people were seriously injured in a crush at a free concert given by X Factor stars JLS.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
Since 2015, the diminished event has been timed to coincide with the opening of the Birmingham German Market Christmas Market in Victoria Square (in the days when it began after Armistice Day).
Regardless of the effort put in to the actual moment of illumination, the lighting up of the city's streets would be the official sign that the pre-Christmas shopping period was up and running in earnest.
For those visiting the hugely popular German Market in the last five years, it was also the signal to gather round a bratwurst stall or ice-cold beer bar with friends, family or work colleagues ready to reaffirm a collective love for each other at the tail end of another year of work.
But what a difference Covid-19 has made to that sense of camaraderie as you can see in our start of lockdown contrast between 2019 and 2020
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
With social distancing imperative to reduce the spread of the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic, the lights were switched on in daylight this morning to make sure they worked.
And, of course, in good time for them to glow their way into the city's night time air via twilight.
The LED lights in key shopping areas like New Street are bigger and better than we've seen before, with the kind of purple hue we might expect to enjoy on stage at a giant Birmingham Hippodrome panto.
Local business group Retail BID Birmingham has helped to fund the improvements as well as again providing the lights which illuminate all of the trees in the usually busy thoroughfare.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
A BID spokesman said: "Everyone felt it was right to put the lights on to brighten up the streets in the absence this year of the German Market.
"There might not be as many people here as usual at the moment.
"But we hope they will help to make the streets safer on dark nights for those who still live and work in the area as well as providing a sense of optimism that shops will reopen after lockdown is due to end on December 2."
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
The near disaster
In more recent times, it became the fashion to try to have bigger and better events to coincide with the lights being switched on.
All of that ended 11 years ago on Saturday, November 14, 2009 when X Factor sensations JLS were hired to appear in Millennium Point.
Back then, the Curzon Street side of the building was a giant, block-paved area - later to become Eastside City Park which opened three years later in December 2012.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
So many fans turned up, the barriers were stormed and youngsters broke through police lines.
Sixty people were injured, including four seriously, as the event descended into chaos and some of those at the front of the 20,000-plus crowd were crushed.
Gemma Cartwright from Kings Norton told us that it was the worst experience of her life.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
The NHS worker, who took her four children and her mother to see JLS, thought she was going to see a repeat of the Hillsborough tragedy, in which 96 football fans died.
“I was being crushed,” she said shortly afterwards. “I was pushed up against the barrier and I had nowhere to go. My kids were hysterical.
“A young girl fainted in front of me and had to be passed over the crowd to the ambulance crew.
“I feel sorry for the police. They seemed to be outnumbered and weren’t coping. Birmingham Council should be ashamed. The place they chose wasn’t big enough to hold such an event.”
(Image: John James / BirminghamLive)
Parade axed in 2015
Since that terrible night, even Santa's traditional parade around town had been axed after falling on hard times.
The event was said to cost £50,000 but it was held for the last time in 2014.
The parade was scrapped in 2015 after austerity saw Birmingham City Council's budget being slashed by £105 million and no sponsors were found.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
The lights switch on took place on November 12, 2015 and became part of the opening day activities on the Frankfurt Christmas Market as it's formally known.
Today, it's already two years since the famous House of Fraser grotto was open for the eighth and final time to enable families to meet Father Christmas in a winter wonderland setting.
The set was retained on the firth floor all year round, but would be reopened every November to raise money for charity.
(Image: Darren Quinton / Birmingham Live)
In its later years its snow scenes and cobbled streets were spray painted to wonderful effect by the Wolverhampton graffiti artist Temper
After Mike Ashley bought the company and there was uncertainty about its future pending plans to redevelop the site, the grotto was kept closed last year.
A member of staff who asked not to be named told us last November: " Christmas isn't cancelled
"We've pulled out the stops to decorate the rest of the store better than ever before.
"The ground floor looks amazing."
Even though the store has experienced a revival this year when allowed to open, no retail enthusiast last December could have foreseen that all 'non-essential' shops would have spent most of 2020 unable to open.
Nobody would have predicted there would be no 21st anniversary Birmingham German Christmas Market.
No return of Ice Skate Birmingham's Big Wheel and Ice Rink to Centenary Square
And certainly nobody would have guessed that the Christmas lights switch on would have been as low key as the one today.
(Image: Birmingham Post and Mail)
The 'old' days
Archive pictures of Corporation Street show how seriously the city used to take Christmas even as recently as the 1980s.
The road in front of Rackhams (now House of Fraser) looked magnificent when lit by thousands of bulbs.
Since the West Midlands Metro opened in May, 2016, the street has been a shadow of its former self despite some local traders calling for uplighters to replace the kind of lights which cannot not be hung because of the cabling for the electric trams.
Looking on the bright side, at least the festive images created by LED technology mean that other streets can now be lit up in more creative ways than ever.
And, in the spirit of a greener world, the LED displays also cost a lot less to illuminate than the old fashioned bulbs.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Two in hospital after car hits Tesco petrol pump

Two people have been taken to hospital after a car careered into a petrol pump on the forecourt of a Tesco supermarket .
The male driver and a woman were injured after the crash involving three cars at the Severn Road store in Stourport-on-Severn .
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it was called at 12.03pm today ( November 12 ) to reports of a road traffic accident .
It sent one ambulance and a paramedic officer .
A spokesman for the ambulance service said : “ On arrival we discovered two patients – a man who was the driver of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They were both treated for injuries not believed to be serious and taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital as a precaution .
They both travelled in the same ambulance.
” Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to a Tesco filling station in Severn Road , Stourport .
A spokesman for the brigade said : “ We sent two crews from Wyre Forest .
It was the second time in the space of less than 24 hours that crews were called to the supermarket .
The Midlands Air Ambulance attended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before 2pm on Wednesday , November 11 .
A woman had suffered serious injuries after police were called to reports of ‘ serious concern ’ for a person ’ s safety in the store .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called at 1.44pm to Tesco in Severn Road , Stourport , following concerns for the welfare of a patient .
`` Two ambulances , a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended .
`` Crews treated and conveyed one female who had suffered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ land ambulance to hospital for further emergency care . ''

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Two people have been taken to hospital after a car careered into a petrol pump on the forecourt of a Tesco supermarket.
The male driver and a woman were injured after the crash involving three cars at the Severn Road store in Stourport-on-Severn.
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it was called at 12.03pm today (November 12) to reports of a road traffic accident. It sent one ambulance and a paramedic officer.
A spokesman for the ambulance service said: “On arrival we discovered two patients – a man who was the driver of the vehicle and a woman.
“They were both treated for injuries not believed to be serious and taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital as a precaution. They both travelled in the same ambulance.”
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to a Tesco filling station in Severn Road, Stourport.
A spokesman for the brigade said: “We sent two crews from Wyre Forest.
“The incident involved three cars and a forecourt petrol pump.
“One vehicle was made safe.
“Three people were assessed by ambulance service personnel.”
It was the second time in the space of less than 24 hours that crews were called to the supermarket.
The Midlands Air Ambulance attended along with two ambulances and police shortly before 2pm on Wednesday, November 11.
A woman had suffered serious injuries after police were called to reports of ‘serious concern’ for a person’s safety in the store.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 1.44pm to Tesco in Severn Road, Stourport, following concerns for the welfare of a patient.
"Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended.
"Crews treated and conveyed one female who had suffered serious injuries. She was taken by land ambulance to hospital for further emergency care."


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Aston Villa news and transfers live - Grealish updates

Hello and welcome to Thursday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you up @ @ @ @ @ latest transfer news and views from Villa Park on Thursday , November 12 2020 .
@ @ @ @ @ break from domestic action but quite a few of their players are away on international @ @ @ @ @ Jack Grealish and Conor Hourihane set to play in England vs the Republic of Ireland @ @ @ @ @ There has been a lot of talk about Grealish and his continued rivalry with Mason @ @ @ @ @ the England team and we shall be checking in with the England camp today .
@ @ @ @ @ the latest transfer news and views should any players be linked with a move to @ @ @ @ @ transfer window .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Shane Ireland, Richard Cusack)

Hello and welcome to Thursday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive.
We will be keeping you up to date with all the latest transfer news and views from Villa Park on Thursday, November 12 2020.
Villa are having a well-earned break from domestic action but quite a few of their players are away on international duty with Tyrone Mings, Jack Grealish and Conor Hourihane set to play in England vs the Republic of Ireland tonight (8pm).
There has been a lot of talk about Grealish and his continued rivalry with Mason Mount for a place in the England team and we shall be checking in with the England camp today.
We'll also bring you the latest transfer news and views should any players be linked with a move to Villa ahead of the January transfer window.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Redknapp claims Jude Bellingham is 'a problem' for Ross Barkley

Jude Bellingham 's rapid rise could dent Ross Barkley 's ambitions of earning an England recall , according to Jamie Redknapp .
Birmingham City academy graduate Bellingham was this week called up to the senior Three Lions squad for the first time aged just 17 .
He is in line to become England 's third youngest player behind Theo Walcott and Wayne Rooney with an outing against Republic of Ireland at Wembley on Thursday .
Barkley , who has excelled since joining Aston Villa on loan from Chelsea , has been tipped to return to the international setup by his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but is yet to convince Southgate to bring him back into the fold .
And Redknapp believes former Blues midfielder Bellingham has the potential to provide another obstacle for 26-year-old Barkley , who last represented his country in October 2019 .
`` If Jude Bellingham , for example , comes in and does well that ’ s a problem for Ross , ” Redknapp said .
`` I think we have a lot of good options in that area .
`` At this time we ’ re saying what ’ s his best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s more questions than answers .
`` You want to be in good form now , but Gareth doesn ’ t care if you ’ ve scored four in five right now , you want the players who in red-hot form in May or June . ''
Bellingham made his Blues debut just 15 months ago , becoming the club 's youngest ever player and then goalscorer shortly after .
But having impressed in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund following his summer move , Southgate moved him up from England 's Under-21s squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ podcast : `` Bellingham is player I 'm so pleased is in the squad , I know it 's early and we should n't get too excited but I 'm a massive fan of how he plays in midfield .
`` There are certain young midfielders that come along and make you go , 'wow ' .
This kid has got everything .
He 's a lovely passer of the ball and looks so composed .
`` Even if he does n't touch a ball in the next three games , for him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Henderson and Harry Kane to get that feeling of what it 's like to be in the England squad will be vital . ''

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Jude Bellingham's rapid rise could dent Ross Barkley's ambitions of earning an England recall, according to Jamie Redknapp.
Birmingham City academy graduate Bellingham was this week called up to the senior Three Lions squad for the first time aged just 17.
He is in line to become England's third youngest player behind Theo Walcott and Wayne Rooney with an outing against Republic of Ireland at Wembley on Thursday.
Barkley, who has excelled since joining Aston Villa on loan from Chelsea, has been tipped to return to the international setup by his manager Dean Smith and teammate Tyrone Mings but is yet to convince Southgate to bring him back into the fold.
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And Redknapp believes former Blues midfielder Bellingham has the potential to provide another obstacle for 26-year-old Barkley, who last represented his country in October 2019.
"If Jude Bellingham, for example, comes in and does well that’s a problem for Ross,” Redknapp said. "I think we have a lot of good options in that area.
"At this time we’re saying what’s his best team or best squad. There’s more questions than answers.
"You want to be in good form now, but Gareth doesn’t care if you’ve scored four in five right now, you want the players who in red-hot form in May or June."
Bellingham made his Blues debut just 15 months ago, becoming the club's youngest ever player and then goalscorer shortly after.
But having impressed in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund following his summer move, Southgate moved him up from England's Under-21s squad.
Redknapp told the Pitch to Post podcast: "Bellingham is player I'm so pleased is in the squad, I know it's early and we shouldn't get too excited but I'm a massive fan of how he plays in midfield.
"There are certain young midfielders that come along and make you go, 'wow'. This kid has got everything. He's a lovely passer of the ball and looks so composed.
"Even if he doesn't touch a ball in the next three games, for him to be around the likes of Jordan Henderson and Harry Kane to get that feeling of what it's like to be in the England squad will be vital."


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Aitor Karanka addresses Dan Crowley situation at Birmingham City

Aitor Karanka insists Dan Crowley is a victim of Birmingham City ’ s changing formations but says the attacker has responded positively to being left out of the match-day squad .
Crowley has not been included in Blues ' last six match-day 18s despite being involved in the first half-dozen matches .
That absence was more keenly felt as Blues struggled to find the back of the net , with Crowley ’ s creativity a seemingly untapped resource .
However , Karanka says his omission is tactical rather than personal .
“ Dan has been unlucky , he was playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ didn ’ t win the games , then we had to change shape and we are not playing with a No .
10 , ” he said .
“ Obviously it is not his problem , it is the way the team has been improving , for example Gazza [ Gary Gardner ] wasn ’ t playing at the beginning and he is playing now .
“ I think not playing with a No .
10 is the biggest problem for him .
“ He is a player like the rest , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I can complain about his attitude , Dan is training really well in the way that David Davis is training every day and the way that Maikel Kieftenbeld was training every day .
“ I can ’ t say anything bad about him as a kid , as a professional because I know that he is disappointed – Scotty [ Hogan ] was disappointed when I took him off in a game but I can understand them because I was one of them .
“ I like that frustration because they will improve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will improve the team.
” Blues ’ head coach declined to look ahead to Crowley ’ s situation in January transfer window .
“ I don ’ t know , we are in November , I thought before Huddersfield we had everything under control we didn ’ t have injuries , then Clayton came on to the pitch and in ten minutes he got injured , '' he said .
“ Then I thought George Friend was good and he wasn ’ t as good as I thought – with everything that happens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Now Dan is ready , Maikel Kieftenbeld and Muncey ready for the last game , I can ’ t tell you what is going to happen in January .
”

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Aitor Karanka insists Dan Crowley is a victim of Birmingham City’s changing formations but says the attacker has responded positively to being left out of the match-day squad.
Crowley has not been included in Blues' last six match-day 18s despite being involved in the first half-dozen matches.
That absence was more keenly felt as Blues struggled to find the back of the net, with Crowley’s creativity a seemingly untapped resource.
However, Karanka says his omission is tactical rather than personal.
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“Dan has been unlucky, he was playing when the team was starting, we didn’t win the games, then we had to change shape and we are not playing with a No. 10,” he said.
“Obviously it is not his problem, it is the way the team has been improving, for example Gazza [Gary Gardner] wasn’t playing at the beginning and he is playing now.
“I think not playing with a No. 10 is the biggest problem for him.
“He is a player like the rest, I can’t find a player who I can complain about his attitude, Dan is training really well in the way that David Davis is training every day and the way that Maikel Kieftenbeld was training every day.
“I can’t say anything bad about him as a kid, as a professional because I know that he is disappointed – Scotty [Hogan] was disappointed when I took him off in a game but I can understand them because I was one of them.
“I like that frustration because they will improve and if they improve as individuals they will improve the team.”
Blues’ head coach declined to look ahead to Crowley’s situation in January transfer window.
“I don’t know, we are in November, I thought before Huddersfield we had everything under control we didn’t have injuries, then Clayton came on to the pitch and in ten minutes he got injured," he said.
“Then I thought George Friend was good and he wasn’t as good as I thought – with everything that happens in this league everybody should be ready.
“Now Dan is ready, Maikel Kieftenbeld and Muncey ready for the last game, I can’t tell you what is going to happen in January.”


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Five mourners at huge memorial gathering in city died of Covid'

Up to five people who attended a huge memorial gathering later died of Covid , a Birmingham council chief has said .
Paul Lankester , Assistant Director of Regulation and Enforcement , revealed the city council had learned 'anecdotally ' of the deaths .
BirminghamLive understands the 'street party ' took place in the city .
Mr Lankester spoke at a virtual meeting with Birmingham mosque leaders on November 9 , also attended by the council 's Director of Public Health Justin Varney .
He also told how , in a separate incident , mourners had tried to break into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - expected to attract a crowd of 200 .
The online meeting also heard that the Government was now allowing people with Covid to attend funerals of close family - a decision Mr Lankester called 'absolutely appalling ' .
Current government rules state no more than 30 people are allowed to attend a funeral , indoors or outdoors , with up to 15 permitted at memorial events .
Birmingham City Council has offered advice and guidance to families and funeral directors in an effort to help grieving loved ones say farewell in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Lankester raised issues about some funeral directors and some of the services .
He told the meeting : `` We 've heard anecdotally that there was a rather large gathering in one funeral , it was a street , almost a street party type thing to celebrate the life of someone .
`` We 've heard that five people who attended that got Covid and passed away . ''
The council boss also highlighted how in an unrelated incident legal action was underway against one funeral director who had flouted the strict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a very serious incident in the last fortnight where we have taken action against a funeral director , '' he said in the meeting .
`` I 'm not going to say where , when , how , who , what faith was involved .
But at that funeral there were upwards of 300 people at the cemetery and they then actually created bedlam within a local area because we just could n't manage it , we were n't aware of it .
`` So the action we are taking is legal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gathering above that 30 ( people ) you could be subject to a penalty notice . ''
He told the meeting : `` All I want to say is that we are working our hardest to try to ensure that infections and deaths are kept to a minimum and we need your support and help in doing that . ''
Mr Lankester also spoke about some funerals attracting crowds following announcements on social media - which led to one funeral being stopped .
`` I 'm aware of all sorts of things that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of what 's happening - we 've had that in the last week , '' he said .
`` We actually quite successfully controlled a funeral that had potentially a couple of hundred people there .
`` When they realised that people were going to do it ( be let in ) , we had bolts , padlocks cut at the funeral , at a burial at a cemetery .
`` People were just breaking in , but what we did was we stopped them , we escorted them and the funeral stopped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very disrespectful to both the deceased and the bereaved . ''
He added : `` I think we are in a situation now to allow people with Covid to attend ( funerals ) if they 've lost a close family member .
I think it 's putting more on funeral directors and the like to do things and to control what 's going on .
`` If you 've taken all reasonable action there will be no action taken against you , I can assure you of that .
`` But we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeing increased deaths due to Covid , as a consequence of that we 've all got to be as vigilant as possible . ''
One mosque member questioned the issue of the Government not banning someone with Covid from attending a funeral of a family member as long as they are fully socially distanced .
The rules discourage a Covid sufferer from attending , but allow it .
Mr Lankester said : `` I find it absolutely appalling that it has been allowed and I have made representations .
`` I 'm in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compliance and looking at these things and I 've had four or five extensive emails saying that this should not happen , this is posing risk . ''
No details of any of the funerals involved were released by the council officials .
We previously told in September how police were called to Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel after reports 200 mourners were crammed into a marquee .
The hotel manager was later fined £10,000 over the Covid breaches and a video - view above - showing officers raiding the marquee was released .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hotel has been banned from holding events until January .

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Up to five people who attended a huge memorial gathering later died of Covid, a Birmingham council chief has said.
Paul Lankester, Assistant Director of Regulation and Enforcement, revealed the city council had learned 'anecdotally' of the deaths.
BirminghamLive understands the 'street party' took place in the city.
Mr Lankester spoke at a virtual meeting with Birmingham mosque leaders on November 9, also attended by the council's Director of Public Health Justin Varney.
He also told how, in a separate incident, mourners had tried to break into a locked cemetery to attend a burial - expected to attract a crowd of 200.
The online meeting also heard that the Government was now allowing people with Covid to attend funerals of close family - a decision Mr Lankester called 'absolutely appalling'.
Current government rules state no more than 30 people are allowed to attend a funeral, indoors or outdoors, with up to 15 permitted at memorial events.
Birmingham City Council has offered advice and guidance to families and funeral directors in an effort to help grieving loved ones say farewell in a safe way during the pandemic.
But Mr Lankester raised issues about some funeral directors and some of the services.
He told the meeting: "We've heard anecdotally that there was a rather large gathering in one funeral, it was a street, almost a street party type thing to celebrate the life of someone.
"We've heard that five people who attended that got Covid and passed away."
The council boss also highlighted how in an unrelated incident legal action was underway against one funeral director who had flouted the strict rules on attendances.
"We've had a very serious incident in the last fortnight where we have taken action against a funeral director," he said in the meeting.
"I'm not going to say where, when, how, who, what faith was involved. But at that funeral there were upwards of 300 people at the cemetery and they then actually created bedlam within a local area because we just couldn't manage it, we weren't aware of it.
"So the action we are taking is legal action... if you organise an illegal gathering above that 30 (people) you could be subject to a penalty notice."
He told the meeting: "All I want to say is that we are working our hardest to try to ensure that infections and deaths are kept to a minimum and we need your support and help in doing that."
Mr Lankester also spoke about some funerals attracting crowds following announcements on social media - which led to one funeral being stopped.
"I'm aware of all sorts of things that can go on social media, details of what's happening - we've had that in the last week," he said.
"We actually quite successfully controlled a funeral that had potentially a couple of hundred people there.
"When they realised that people were going to do it (be let in), we had bolts, padlocks cut at the funeral, at a burial at a cemetery.
"People were just breaking in, but what we did was we stopped them, we escorted them and the funeral stopped.
"And I think that's very disrespectful to both the deceased and the bereaved."
He added: "I think we are in a situation now to allow people with Covid to attend (funerals) if they've lost a close family member. I think it's putting more on funeral directors and the like to do things and to control what's going on.
"If you've taken all reasonable action there will be no action taken against you, I can assure you of that.
"But we are in a situation now where we are seeing increased deaths due to Covid, as a consequence of that we've all got to be as vigilant as possible."
One mosque member questioned the issue of the Government not banning someone with Covid from attending a funeral of a family member as long as they are fully socially distanced. The rules discourage a Covid sufferer from attending, but allow it.
Mr Lankester said: "I find it absolutely appalling that it has been allowed and I have made representations.
"I'm in a national group looking at enforcement and compliance and looking at these things and I've had four or five extensive emails saying that this should not happen, this is posing risk."
No details of any of the funerals involved were released by the council officials.
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We previously told in September how police were called to Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel after reports 200 mourners were crammed into a marquee.
The hotel manager was later fined £10,000 over the Covid breaches and a video - view above - showing officers raiding the marquee was released.
As well as the fine, the hotel has been banned from holding events until January.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--'Discarded cigarette' caused fatal house blaze that killed four children

A carelessly 'discarded cigarette ' caused a fire that killed four children in Stafford , an inquest has heard .
South Staffordshire Coroner 's Court heard that a glass - which was believed to be an ashtray - was found melted within the springs of a mattress following the fatal blaze in Sycamore Lane in 2019 .
Youngsters Riley Holt , eight , Keegan Unitt , six , Tilly Rose Unitt , four , and three-year-old Olly Unitt perished in the blaze .
The children 's mum , Natalie Unitt , told inquest on Thursday , November 12 , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and told the coroner Andrew Haigh that she 'could not remember how the blaze began ' .
Her partner Christopher Moulton , the father of three of the children , also gave evidence at the inquest , saying he believed the fire had started on a landing .
Among five witnesses called by the coroner was lead investigator Leigh Richards , of West Midlands Fire Service .
Answering questions from Mr Haigh , he told the inquest that sources other than carelessness with smoking materials had been ruled out .
Confirming that four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ casements in the lounge of the house , Mr Richards said : `` It was quite obvious that the adult occupants within the property were smokers .
`` There was a significant number of carelessly discarded cigarettes in and around the property on the ground floor .
`` Externally , outside the kitchen window there were in excess of 100 discarded cigarettes .
Of significant note ... within the recess of the left-hand ( window ) casement when looking from inside the lounge , there was a single discarded cigarette butt .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my opinion and had been left to burn on its own .
There was evidence within the lounge of a number of cigarettes that littered the carpet against the skirting boards . ''
Detailing what he had found in the room where he believed the fire had started , Mr Richards added : `` Examination of the master bedroom indicated there was a blue glass ashtray on the carpet adjacent to the bed .
Within that ashtray there were , I believe , a couple of cigarettes still present .
`` I also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be glass on the bed which had been melted within the springs of the mattress .
`` It was glass consistent with what you would expect to see with a glass ashtray . ''
Asked how he believed the blaze had spread , Mr Richards told the coroner : `` The fire in my opinion developed within the bedroom and as it developed , the room went 'full flashover ' - which is essentially where everything within the room becomes involved in fire .
`` It is my considered opinion that this fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Detective Inspector Alan Lyford , of Staffordshire Police , said a file had been passed to the Crown Prosecution Service , who had considered several offences but had deemed there was insufficient evidence to prosecute anyone in relation to the fire .
Recording narrative verdicts that the children had died of smoke inhalation following a fire caused by an unextinguished cigarette , the coroner said : `` I realise giving evidence in circumstances like this is distressing for all , but particularly for Mr Moulton and Miss Unitt . ''
Accepting evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coroner added : `` Mr Moulton has suggested that the fire may have been caused by where the boiler is on the landing of the property .
I do not accept that .
`` Mr Richards has clearly indicated why the boiler is not the cause of this fire . ''
In his evidence to the court , Mr Moulton said he had been woken by the fire and had tried to get to his children .
He also said he could not remember how he had suffered burns to his hands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Miss Unitt said she had woken because she could feel a `` heaviness '' on her chest , and had also first noticed the fire on the landing area .
The inquest was told that the couple had previously been advised by social care with regard to not smoking in their house , which has now been demolished .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Matthew Cooper, Jordan Coussins)

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A carelessly 'discarded cigarette' caused a fire that killed four children in Stafford, an inquest has heard.
South Staffordshire Coroner's Court heard that a glass - which was believed to be an ashtray - was found melted within the springs of a mattress following the fatal blaze in Sycamore Lane in 2019.
Youngsters Riley Holt, eight, Keegan Unitt, six, Tilly Rose Unitt, four, and three-year-old Olly Unitt perished in the blaze.
The children's mum, Natalie Unitt, told inquest on Thursday, November 12, that she was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and told the coroner Andrew Haigh that she 'could not remember how the blaze began'.
Her partner Christopher Moulton, the father of three of the children, also gave evidence at the inquest, saying he believed the fire had started on a landing.
Among five witnesses called by the coroner was lead investigator Leigh Richards, of West Midlands Fire Service.
Answering questions from Mr Haigh, he told the inquest that sources other than carelessness with smoking materials had been ruled out.
Confirming that four cigarette butts had been found in window casements in the lounge of the house, Mr Richards said: "It was quite obvious that the adult occupants within the property were smokers.
"There was a significant number of carelessly discarded cigarettes in and around the property on the ground floor.
"Externally, outside the kitchen window there were in excess of 100 discarded cigarettes. Of significant note ... within the recess of the left-hand (window) casement when looking from inside the lounge, there was a single discarded cigarette butt.
"That had not been stubbed out in my opinion and had been left to burn on its own. There was evidence within the lounge of a number of cigarettes that littered the carpet against the skirting boards."
Detailing what he had found in the room where he believed the fire had started, Mr Richards added: "Examination of the master bedroom indicated there was a blue glass ashtray on the carpet adjacent to the bed. Within that ashtray there were, I believe, a couple of cigarettes still present.
"I also found remnants of what I believe to be glass on the bed which had been melted within the springs of the mattress.
"It was glass consistent with what you would expect to see with a glass ashtray."
Asked how he believed the blaze had spread, Mr Richards told the coroner: "The fire in my opinion developed within the bedroom and as it developed, the room went 'full flashover' - which is essentially where everything within the room becomes involved in fire.
"It is my considered opinion that this fire was caused by carelessness with cigarettes."
Detective Inspector Alan Lyford, of Staffordshire Police, said a file had been passed to the Crown Prosecution Service, who had considered several offences but had deemed there was insufficient evidence to prosecute anyone in relation to the fire.
Recording narrative verdicts that the children had died of smoke inhalation following a fire caused by an unextinguished cigarette, the coroner said: "I realise giving evidence in circumstances like this is distressing for all, but particularly for Mr Moulton and Miss Unitt."
Accepting evidence that the fire started on bedding, the coroner added: "Mr Moulton has suggested that the fire may have been caused by where the boiler is on the landing of the property. I do not accept that.
"Mr Richards has clearly indicated why the boiler is not the cause of this fire."
In his evidence to the court, Mr Moulton said he had been woken by the fire and had tried to get to his children.
He also said he could not remember how he had suffered burns to his hands before escaping from a bedroom window.
Miss Unitt said she had woken because she could feel a "heaviness" on her chest, and had also first noticed the fire on the landing area.
The inquest was told that the couple had previously been advised by social care with regard to not smoking in their house, which has now been demolished.


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Oxygen tank fire which killed Walsall gran was 'tragic accident'

The death of a much-loved grandmother who died after an oxygen tank ignited while she was being treated by paramedics was accidental , an inquest has found .
Lynn Hadley , from Walsall , suffered fatal burn injuries at her home in New Street , Shelfield .
The 67-year-old had reported having breathing difficulties and West Midlands Ambulance Service crew were called to the suspected coronavirus suffer ’ s end-terraced home .
As medics administered oxygen treatment , sparks flew from the tank and set Lynn ’ s armchair alight , at around 5pm on Easter Monday ( April 13 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black Country Coroner ’ s Court found that displaced particles inside the breathing apparatus were responsible for the fire .
During the hearing , Mrs Hadley 's husband David said he saw a 'flash ' out the corner of his eye after the canister was turned on next to the Lymphomania sufferer .
The jury heard that one of the paramedics , Emma Spencer , shouted 'oh god ' as the sparks - likened to a Catherine wheel - began to fly from the cylinder .
As Ms Spencer stepped away from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her foot caught in a bin next to Lynn 's chair .
She was quickly helped up by Mr Hadley as her colleague urged everyone to evacuate the house , which also contained Mrs Hadley 's daughter Kelly and granddaughter Mackenzie .
Mr Hadley and Mr Kelly tried desperately to save Mrs Hadley - even grabbing onto her arm - from the blaze but said they were hit with a wall of smoke .
Tragically , the much-loved grandma could not be saved as the flames took hold and she later died .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( November 12 ) , a jury concluded that Lynn Hadley died an accidental death .
The head juror told the court : `` The deceased , Lynn Hadley , came to her death by the most likely cause of adiabatic compression due to a particle displacement found in the oxygen cylinder . ''
The retired shopworker ’ s cause of death was recorded as fatal burn injuries incompatible with life .
Recalling the horrific incident , Mr Hadley said : `` I saw a flash in the corner of my eye .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the oxygen tank shout 'oh god ' .
`` I saw fire across the floor .
I managed to grab her arm but due to the smoke I had to get out to the garden . ''
Police , firefighters , two more ambulances and a Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the scene of the blast , which completely destroyed the roof and conservatory .
Concluding the inquest , senior coroner Zafar Siddique said : `` I take this opportunity to offer my deepest and sincerest apologies to the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s still very raw but my deepest thanks and condolences to you , I can only imagine the pain you are still going through . ''
Mr Siddique informed the court that he plans to put together a preventing future deaths report based on the evidence that emerged during the hearing .
The senior coroner added : “ There are lessons to be learned this isn ’ t a unique event , there is a risk .
”

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The death of a much-loved grandmother who died after an oxygen tank ignited while she was being treated by paramedics was accidental, an inquest has found.
Lynn Hadley, from Walsall, suffered fatal burn injuries at her home in New Street, Shelfield.
The 67-year-old had reported having breathing difficulties and West Midlands Ambulance Service crew were called to the suspected coronavirus suffer’s end-terraced home.
As medics administered oxygen treatment, sparks flew from the tank and set Lynn’s armchair alight, at around 5pm on Easter Monday (April 13).
(Image: JustGiving)
A three-day inquest held at Black Country Coroner’s Court found that displaced particles inside the breathing apparatus were responsible for the fire.
During the hearing, Mrs Hadley's husband David said he saw a 'flash' out the corner of his eye after the canister was turned on next to the Lymphomania sufferer.
The jury heard that one of the paramedics, Emma Spencer, shouted 'oh god' as the sparks - likened to a Catherine wheel - began to fly from the cylinder.
As Ms Spencer stepped away from the flames she fell over after accidentally getting her foot caught in a bin next to Lynn's chair.
She was quickly helped up by Mr Hadley as her colleague urged everyone to evacuate the house, which also contained Mrs Hadley's daughter Kelly and granddaughter Mackenzie.
Mr Hadley and Mr Kelly tried desperately to save Mrs Hadley - even grabbing onto her arm - from the blaze but said they were hit with a wall of smoke.
Tragically, the much-loved grandma could not be saved as the flames took hold and she later died.
Following a period of deliberations, today (November 12), a jury concluded that Lynn Hadley died an accidental death.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
The head juror told the court: "The deceased, Lynn Hadley, came to her death by the most likely cause of adiabatic compression due to a particle displacement found in the oxygen cylinder."
The retired shopworker’s cause of death was recorded as fatal burn injuries incompatible with life.
Recalling the horrific incident, Mr Hadley said: "I saw a flash in the corner of my eye. I heard the paramedic that was next to the oxygen tank shout 'oh god'.
"I saw fire across the floor. I managed to grab her arm but due to the smoke I had to get out to the garden."
Police, firefighters, two more ambulances and a Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the scene of the blast, which completely destroyed the roof and conservatory.
Concluding the inquest, senior coroner Zafar Siddique said: "I take this opportunity to offer my deepest and sincerest apologies to the family of Lynn Hadley in these tragic circumstances. It’s still very raw but my deepest thanks and condolences to you, I can only imagine the pain you are still going through."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Mr Siddique informed the court that he plans to put together a preventing future deaths report based on the evidence that emerged during the hearing.
The senior coroner added: “There are lessons to be learned this isn’t a unique event, there is a risk.”


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Why Blues retired Jude Bellingham's number 22 shirt

Birmingham City decided to retire the No.22 shirt in honour of Jude Bellingham when the academy graduate moved to Borussia Dortmund in the summer .
The 17-year-old waved an emotional farewell to Blues in July , representing his boyhood club for the final time in a 3-1 Championship defeat to Derby County at St Andrew 's in the final match of last season .
Rising through the Wast Hills academy to make his first team debut , Bellingham emerged as one of the brightest kids in football and is in line to make his senior debut for England against the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world 's most expensive 17-year-old when he signed for Dortmund , with the transfer fee set to eclipse £26million .
The youngster , who was called up to Gareth Southgate 's squad from England 's Under-21s this week , fought back the tears as he made his way off the St Andrew 's turf for the last time four months ago .
When his departure was confirmed , Blues revealed their plan to retire Bellingham 's number 22 shirt 'to remember one of our own and to inspire others ' .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time to its youngest ever player and goalscorer on its website , which revealed the news .
A passage reads : `` In such a remarkably short space of time Jude has become an iconic figure at Blues , showing what can be achieved through talent , hard work and dedication .
His caring , humble and engaging off-the-field demeanour has also made him such an impressive role model .
`` The 22 shirt has become synonymous with Jude , his rise to the first team aged just 16 years and 38 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such the club have decided it would be fitting to retire this number , to remember one of our own and to inspire others .
`` Prior to his last game the club held a private celebration for people close to Jude 's development .
It was an opportunity for all to come together and to recognise the help and support Jude has had from all at Blues , notably the academy , and to provide him with another fitting farewell memory .
`` Throughout the elongated transfer process that eventually made Jude @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he remained focused and totally committed to the Blues cause , which showed the importance of having a supportive family behind him . ''
Bellingham left having played 44 times for his boyhood club , scoring four times .
His move to Dortmund was confirmed following months of speculation in which he was also linked with Manchester United .
And after completing the transfer , Bellingham paid tribute to the club who developed his outstanding talent .
`` I can ’ t thank Birmingham City enough for what they have done for me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since the age of seven , '' he told Blues ' official site .
`` Of course I wish everyone associated with the Club nothing but the best .
Once a blue , always a blue . ''
Dortmund were delighted to capture the teenager , who has already played 11 times for the Bundesliga club this season .
`` Jude Bellingham has decided with absolute confidence to pursue his career at Borussia Dortmund , '' said the Bundesliga giant 's sporting director Michael Zorc .
`` The primary motivation behind his decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were able to offer him .
`` He has enormous potential , which we will continue to develop together with him over the coming years .
`` He already boasts astonishing quality with and without the ball , and has a strong mentality to boot .
`` Jude will immediately strengthen our first team squad , but we will certainly give him all the time he needs to adapt to the higher level of play . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Alex Dicken, Shane Ireland)

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Birmingham City decided to retire the No.22 shirt in honour of Jude Bellingham when the academy graduate moved to Borussia Dortmund in the summer.
The 17-year-old waved an emotional farewell to Blues in July, representing his boyhood club for the final time in a 3-1 Championship defeat to Derby County at St Andrew's in the final match of last season.
Rising through the Wast Hills academy to make his first team debut, Bellingham emerged as one of the brightest kids in football and is in line to make his senior debut for England against the Republic of Ireland tonight.
Bellingham became the world's most expensive 17-year-old when he signed for Dortmund, with the transfer fee set to eclipse £26million.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The youngster, who was called up to Gareth Southgate's squad from England's Under-21s this week, fought back the tears as he made his way off the St Andrew's turf for the last time four months ago.
When his departure was confirmed, Blues revealed their plan to retire Bellingham's number 22 shirt 'to remember one of our own and to inspire others'.
The club published a tribute piece at the time to its youngest ever player and goalscorer on its website, which revealed the news.
A passage reads: "In such a remarkably short space of time Jude has become an iconic figure at Blues, showing what can be achieved through talent, hard work and dedication. His caring, humble and engaging off-the-field demeanour has also made him such an impressive role model.
"The 22 shirt has become synonymous with Jude, his rise to the first team aged just 16 years and 38 days and these qualities.
"And as such the club have decided it would be fitting to retire this number, to remember one of our own and to inspire others.
"Prior to his last game the club held a private celebration for people close to Jude's development. It was an opportunity for all to come together and to recognise the help and support Jude has had from all at Blues, notably the academy, and to provide him with another fitting farewell memory.
"Throughout the elongated transfer process that eventually made Jude the world's most expensive 17-year-old, he remained focused and totally committed to the Blues cause, which showed the importance of having a supportive family behind him."
(Image: Bradley Collyer/PA Wire)
Bellingham left having played 44 times for his boyhood club, scoring four times.
His move to Dortmund was confirmed following months of speculation in which he was also linked with Manchester United.
And after completing the transfer, Bellingham paid tribute to the club who developed his outstanding talent.
"I can’t thank Birmingham City enough for what they have done for me, not just this past year but since the age of seven," he told Blues' official site.
"Of course I wish everyone associated with the Club nothing but the best. Once a blue, always a blue."
Dortmund were delighted to capture the teenager, who has already played 11 times for the Bundesliga club this season.
"Jude Bellingham has decided with absolute confidence to pursue his career at Borussia Dortmund," said the Bundesliga giant's sporting director Michael Zorc.
"The primary motivation behind his decision were the prospects on the pitch we were able to offer him.
"He has enormous potential, which we will continue to develop together with him over the coming years.
"He already boasts astonishing quality with and without the ball, and has a strong mentality to boot.
"Jude will immediately strengthen our first team squad, but we will certainly give him all the time he needs to adapt to the higher level of play."


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Woman threatened with 'large machetes' in terrifying carjacking

Carjackers brandishing two large machetes drove into a woman 's car and then ordered her to leave it in a terrifying incident near Bassetts Pole .
The victim , a 55-year-old woman , had been shopping when the four suspects – travelling in a black Toyota people carrier – collided with her black Volkswagen GTI on the A453 at the junction with Slade Road near Bassetts Pole .
It happened at about 5.15pm on Wednesday , November 11 .
When she pulled over , the suspects threatened her with two large machetes and made her leave her vehicle before taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Staffordshire Police confirmed : `` We were called to the A453 at the junction with Slade Road to reports that a woman had been robbed after being threatened by a group of Asian men brandishing knives .
`` When she pulled over , the suspects threatened her with two large machetes and made her leave her vehicle before departing with both cars in the direction of Tamworth .
`` The victim was not injured in the robbery but was left very shaken .
`` Officers are appealing for information after a car-jacking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , of force CID South , said : “ This was a brazen and terrifying car-jacking which left the victim traumatised .
“ Thankfully , members of the public stopped to help the victim when they saw what happened and I would like to appeal to anyone who many have dashcam footage of the incident to get in touch with police as soon as possible.
” Anyone with any information should message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter quoting incident number 518 of 11 November , call 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the third machete incident in just two weeks in and around Tamworth .
A machete gang attempted to force their way into a property in Balfour near to the town centre , while two people held the front door shut to prevent them entering at around 2.30pm on Tuesday , November 3 .
Armed police officers attended and carried out extensive searches of the surrounding area but were unable to locate them .
Firearms officers were then deployed at around 7pm on Thursday , November 5 to reports of a group of up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believed to be armed with machetes and meat cleavers , destroying property on Cambrian in Glascote .
Police say the incidents are not being linked .
Tamworth Police Commander , Chief Inspector Paul Talbot , said : “ We are aware of a number of reports of knife-enabled crime in the last week within the borough , and I would like to reassure the community that we do investigate all reports and are seeking to target those who seek to use such weapons to remove them from our streets .
“ Certain incidents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specialist assets in order to deal with the reported threat to the community , which can be impactive on the wider community .
“ As an accredited Tactical Firearms Commander , the deployment of such resources is always done in a balanced way to achieve the lawful objective , and once this is complete and the risk reduced , local patrols continue to investigate and provide reassurance .
“ Colleagues from CID South are leading the investigation into the use of weapons at a property in Balfour on November 3 , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a property in Cambrian .
The victim and suspect are known to one another .
“ This week sees a coordinated national week of action where police forces across the country are raising the profile of knife crime under the banner of Operation Sceptre .
This approach brings together a number of strands including education , intelligence and enforcement .
“ Local officers and specialist resources will continue to provide a high visibility reassurance presence throughout the borough to target the threat and use of weapons .
“ Where we are allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to engage with educational settings around the # ditchtheblade campaign and highlighting both the misery that can follow the use of such weapons , and the penalties for being caught .
”

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Carjackers brandishing two large machetes drove into a woman's car and then ordered her to leave it in a terrifying incident near Bassetts Pole.
The victim, a 55-year-old woman, had been shopping when the four suspects – travelling in a black Toyota people carrier – collided with her black Volkswagen GTI on the A453 at the junction with Slade Road near Bassetts Pole.
It happened at about 5.15pm on Wednesday, November 11.
When she pulled over, the suspects threatened her with two large machetes and made her leave her vehicle before taking off with both and heading towards Tamworth.
Staffordshire Police confirmed: "We were called to the A453 at the junction with Slade Road to reports that a woman had been robbed after being threatened by a group of Asian men brandishing knives.
"When she pulled over, the suspects threatened her with two large machetes and made her leave her vehicle before departing with both cars in the direction of Tamworth.
"The victim was not injured in the robbery but was left very shaken.
"Officers are appealing for information after a car-jacking in Tamworth."
DC Gareth Morris, of force CID South, said: “This was a brazen and terrifying car-jacking which left the victim traumatised.
“Thankfully, members of the public stopped to help the victim when they saw what happened and I would like to appeal to anyone who many have dashcam footage of the incident to get in touch with police as soon as possible.”
Anyone with any information should message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter quoting incident number 518 of 11 November, call 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
It is the third machete incident in just two weeks in and around Tamworth.
A machete gang attempted to force their way into a property in Balfour near to the town centre, while two people held the front door shut to prevent them entering at around 2.30pm on Tuesday, November 3.
Armed police officers attended and carried out extensive searches of the surrounding area but were unable to locate them.
Firearms officers were then deployed at around 7pm on Thursday, November 5 to reports of a group of up to eight young men in balaclavas, believed to be armed with machetes and meat cleavers, destroying property on Cambrian in Glascote.
Police say the incidents are not being linked.
Tamworth Police Commander, Chief Inspector Paul Talbot, said: “We are aware of a number of reports of knife-enabled crime in the last week within the borough, and I would like to reassure the community that we do investigate all reports and are seeking to target those who seek to use such weapons to remove them from our streets.
“Certain incidents require the deployment of a number of specialist assets in order to deal with the reported threat to the community, which can be impactive on the wider community.
“As an accredited Tactical Firearms Commander, the deployment of such resources is always done in a balanced way to achieve the lawful objective, and once this is complete and the risk reduced, local patrols continue to investigate and provide reassurance.
(Image: Tamworth Police)
“Colleagues from CID South are leading the investigation into the use of weapons at a property in Balfour on November 3, and the investigation continues in relation to the attack at a property in Cambrian. The victim and suspect are known to one another.
“This week sees a coordinated national week of action where police forces across the country are raising the profile of knife crime under the banner of Operation Sceptre. This approach brings together a number of strands including education, intelligence and enforcement.
“Local officers and specialist resources will continue to provide a high visibility reassurance presence throughout the borough to target the threat and use of weapons.
“Where we are allowed within current guidelines, we will continue to engage with educational settings around the #ditchtheblade campaign and highlighting both the misery that can follow the use of such weapons, and the penalties for being caught.”


birminghammail--2020-11-12--Investigation launched after woman's body discovered in Netherton

A police investigation has been launched after the discovery of a woman 's body at an address in Netherton .
The woman was found dead inside a property in Crossley Street this afternoon - November 12 .
A 38-year-old man is being quizzed by detectives after being arrested on suspicion of murder .
Police officers were called to the scene just before 12.40pm by ambulance crews , who had rushed to the property following reports of a medical emergency .
Pictures taken on Crossley Street this evening show a small police cordon still in place , with police officers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Netherton Health Centre .
A West Midlands Police spokesman said : `` We ’ re investigating after the body of a woman was found at an address in Crossley Street , Netherton , this afternoon ( 12 November ) .
`` We were alerted to the discovery by ambulance service colleagues just before 12.40pm .
`` The death of the woman is currently being treated as unexplained and a scene is in place for enquiries to continue .
`` A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone with information to get in touch with the force on 101 .
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said : `` We were called to reports of a medical emergency at a property on Crossley Street at 12.22pm .
`` Two ambulances and a paramedic officer attended the scene .
On arrival we discovered one patient , a woman .
`` Sadly , it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save her and she was confirmed dead at the scene . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Paxton, Jordan Coussins, Kelly Ashmore)

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A police investigation has been launched after the discovery of a woman's body at an address in Netherton.
The woman was found dead inside a property in Crossley Street this afternoon - November 12.
A 38-year-old man is being quizzed by detectives after being arrested on suspicion of murder.
Police officers were called to the scene just before 12.40pm by ambulance crews, who had rushed to the property following reports of a medical emergency.
Pictures taken on Crossley Street this evening show a small police cordon still in place, with police officers and forensic teams at the scene - opposite Netherton Health Centre.
(Image: Handout)
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "We’re investigating after the body of a woman was found at an address in Crossley Street, Netherton, this afternoon (12 November).
"We were alerted to the discovery by ambulance service colleagues just before 12.40pm.
"The death of the woman is currently being treated as unexplained and a scene is in place for enquiries to continue.
"A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning."
Police are urging anyone with information to get in touch with the force on 101.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "We were called to reports of a medical emergency at a property on Crossley Street at 12.22pm.
"Two ambulances and a paramedic officer attended the scene. On arrival we discovered one patient, a woman.
"Sadly, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save her and she was confirmed dead at the scene."