birminghammail--2020-10-15--Map shows Birmingham Covid hotspots - with one area now highest on record

A part of Birmingham now has a coronavirus rate nearing 900 - making it one of the highest in the country , with Nottingham still leading the Public Health England table .
Edgbaston South and University has a rolling seven day rate of 885 cases per 100,000 people - the highest in the city 's record .
That is due to 107 new cases in the seven days to 09 October 2020 .
The rate represents a 48.6 per cent change , and is above the national average .
Similarly , Selly Oak has a rate of 803 cases per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the week to October 09 .
Nottingham continues to have the highest rate in England , with 3,179 new cases recorded in the seven days to October 10 - the equivalent of 954.9 cases per 100,000 people .
This is a huge jump from 510.7 cases per 100,000 in the seven days to October 3 .
Knowsley has the second highest rate , which has climbed from 563.4 to 701.3 , with 1,058 new cases .
Liverpool is in third place , where the rate has increased from 555.4 to 677.5 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Manchester has fallen from 583.3 to 477.5 , with 2,640 new cases recorded .
The interactive map on the government website displays weekly data — and users can use the slider to select a week-ending date .
Click on an area to see more detailed cases data for the most recent time period available including seven day case rates and direction of change .
When zoomed to very small areas , data for Northern Ireland , Scotland and Wales are not available .
Click here to use the map .
The rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ white areas where Covid is suppressed .
The shade then goes from yellow and light green , representing rates between 0 and 50 cases per 100k , to darker shades .
Royal blue represents rates of between 100 and 200 , with navy representing 200 cases to 400 cases per 100,000 people .
A deep burgundy shows hotspots where the rate has surpassed 400 .
The rates are based on the latest update of the rolling seven-day rate of new cases of Covid-19 for every local authority area in England .
The figures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9 , are based on tests carried out in laboratories ( pillar one of the Government 's testing programme ) and in the wider community ( pillar two ) .
The rate is expressed as the number of new cases per 100,000 people .
Data for the most recent four days ( October 10-13 ) has been excluded as it is incomplete and does not reflect the true number of cases .

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A part of Birmingham now has a coronavirus rate nearing 900 - making it one of the highest in the country, with Nottingham still leading the Public Health England table.
Edgbaston South and University has a rolling seven day rate of 885 cases per 100,000 people - the highest in the city's record.
That is due to 107 new cases in the seven days to 09 October 2020.
The rate represents a 48.6 per cent change, and is above the national average.
Similarly, Selly Oak has a rate of 803 cases per 100,000 people - with 143 new cases in the week to October 09.
That marks a 58.9 per cent increase.
Nottingham continues to have the highest rate in England, with 3,179 new cases recorded in the seven days to October 10 - the equivalent of 954.9 cases per 100,000 people.
This is a huge jump from 510.7 cases per 100,000 in the seven days to October 3.
Knowsley has the second highest rate, which has climbed from 563.4 to 701.3, with 1,058 new cases.
Liverpool is in third place, where the rate has increased from 555.4 to 677.5, with 3,374 new cases.
The rate in Manchester has fallen from 583.3 to 477.5, with 2,640 new cases recorded.
The interactive map on the government website displays weekly data — and users can use the slider to select a week-ending date.
Click on an area to see more detailed cases data for the most recent time period available including seven day case rates and direction of change.
When zoomed to very small areas, data for Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are not available.
Click here to use the map.
The rate is represented by different colours, with white areas where Covid is suppressed.
The shade then goes from yellow and light green, representing rates between 0 and 50 cases per 100k, to darker shades.
Royal blue represents rates of between 100 and 200, with navy representing 200 cases to 400 cases per 100,000 people.
A deep burgundy shows hotspots where the rate has surpassed 400.
The rates are based on the latest update of the rolling seven-day rate of new cases of Covid-19 for every local authority area in England.
The figures, for the seven days to October 9, are based on tests carried out in laboratories (pillar one of the Government's testing programme) and in the wider community (pillar two).
The rate is expressed as the number of new cases per 100,000 people.
Data for the most recent four days (October 10-13) has been excluded as it is incomplete and does not reflect the true number of cases.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Garry Monk opens up on Aitor Karanka and 'buoyant' Birmingham City

Garry Monk insists he will be returning to a happy place when he brings Sheffield Wednesday to St Andrew ’ s on Saturday .
The Owls boss spent just over a season in charge at Birmingham City before a breakdown in his relationship with the chief executive saw him sacked .
Monk returns to Blues with his side having claimed back five of the 12 points deducted by the EFL and in a similar situation to the one he had to manage at Blues who were docked nine during his tenure .
Speaking ahead of Saturday ’ s game he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proud of the work down there , I really enjoyed my time there .
“ I went in at a time where the club was in real danger of relegation .
We managed to do a good job and progress it and move it forward .
“ There was a lot of disgruntlement when I went in there .
I think at that moment the club and the fans needed someone that understood the situation and cared about it .
“ I think those two things we definitely did I ’ m very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Some very good memories.
” Monk returned with Wednesday last season to see a sumptuous injury time volley from Scott Hogan secure a 3-3 draw for Blues .
However , since then Pep Clotet has been replaced by Aitor Karanka and Blues haven ’ t conceded three all season - much less in one game .
“ I know Aitor [ Karanka ] .
I have come up against his teams before , ” Monk continued .
“ They are very organised .
I know the majority of the players and they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong team .
They have had a very good start to the season .
“ St Andrew ’ s is always a difficult place to go regardless of whether the fans are there or not .
It ’ s a difficult pitch and a difficult place to go .
`` They will be buoyant by their start to the season and it is another tough Championship game .
“ We are prepared for the game .
It is about us and what we need to do .
Our aim is to gather as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do .
”

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Garry Monk insists he will be returning to a happy place when he brings Sheffield Wednesday to St Andrew’s on Saturday.
The Owls boss spent just over a season in charge at Birmingham City before a breakdown in his relationship with the chief executive saw him sacked.
Monk returns to Blues with his side having claimed back five of the 12 points deducted by the EFL and in a similar situation to the one he had to manage at Blues who were docked nine during his tenure.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s game he said: “I’m very proud of the work down there, I really enjoyed my time there.
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“I went in at a time where the club was in real danger of relegation. We managed to do a good job and progress it and move it forward.
“There was a lot of disgruntlement when I went in there. I think at that moment the club and the fans needed someone that understood the situation and cared about it.
“I think those two things we definitely did I’m very proud of the work we did there. Some very good memories.”
Monk returned with Wednesday last season to see a sumptuous injury time volley from Scott Hogan secure a 3-3 draw for Blues.
However, since then Pep Clotet has been replaced by Aitor Karanka and Blues haven’t conceded three all season - much less in one game.
“I know Aitor [Karanka]. I have come up against his teams before,” Monk continued.
“They are very organised. I know the majority of the players and they are very determined and are a very strong team. They have had a very good start to the season.
“St Andrew’s is always a difficult place to go regardless of whether the fans are there or not. It’s a difficult pitch and a difficult place to go.
"They will be buoyant by their start to the season and it is another tough Championship game.
“We are prepared for the game. It is about us and what we need to do. Our aim is to gather as many points as quickly as we can do.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Quality Street fans left devastated after chocolate dropped from tins

Quality Street is one of the most beloved brands in the country when it comes to festive treats .
Tubs and tins of the chocolates , made by confectionery giant Nestle , are a staple of UK homes during the Christmas season .
But as we head deeper into autumn and winter , Quality Street has caused many people to feel disappointed .
Fans of the brand buying tubs and tins have been left gutted to discover a flavour was missing .
Quality Street fans were left disappointed this week after opening tubs to find a new flavour missing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be introducing a new Chocolate Caramel Brownie flavoured chocolate to its tubs .
But coronavirus and the subsequent lockdown has delayed the production .
A spokesperson said : “ In order to keep Quality Street production going during the Covid-19 lockdown period , we made some temporary changes to the way we operated , such as running fewer lines for a time .
`` As a result , some consumers may find that they do not have all 12 varieties of Quality Street sweets in their mix . ''
The statement continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the overall weight of our tubs , tins and cartons and any missing varieties , such as the Chocolate Caramel Brownie , have been replaced by another of our well-loved Quality Street selection .
`` We have been producing all 12 sweets again for some time now . ''
The spokesperson added : `` We apologise for any disappointment caused but hope consumers understand why it was necessary to make these changes during such unprecedented conditions .
”

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Quality Street is one of the most beloved brands in the country when it comes to festive treats.
Tubs and tins of the chocolates, made by confectionery giant Nestle, are a staple of UK homes during the Christmas season.
But as we head deeper into autumn and winter, Quality Street has caused many people to feel disappointed.
Quality Street fans were left disappointed this week after opening tubs to find a new flavour missing.
Earlier this year, Nestle announced it would be introducing a new Chocolate Caramel Brownie flavoured chocolate to its tubs.
But coronavirus and the subsequent lockdown has delayed the production.
(Image: Quality Street)
One dad wrote on Twitter: "Erm excuse me @QualityStreetUK i’ve just emptied a box on the table for the kids to choose what they’d like. WHERE are the chocolate caramel brownies?! My 8yr old son is devastated, explain yourselves."
A spokesperson said: “In order to keep Quality Street production going during the Covid-19 lockdown period, we made some temporary changes to the way we operated, such as running fewer lines for a time.
"As a result, some consumers may find that they do not have all 12 varieties of Quality Street sweets in their mix."
The statement continued: "There is no change to the overall weight of our tubs, tins and cartons and any missing varieties, such as the Chocolate Caramel Brownie, have been replaced by another of our well-loved Quality Street selection.
"We have been producing all 12 sweets again for some time now."
Quality Street tins are available at Tesco, Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury's.
The spokesperson added: "We apologise for any disappointment caused but hope consumers understand why it was necessary to make these changes during such unprecedented conditions.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Ezri Konsa issues 'another level' message after transfer window

Ezri Konsa believes the close-knit nature of Aston Villa 's squad is on 'another level ' to last season after a blistering start to the campaign .
Villa have brushed aside last term 's relegation scrap to make a perfect start to the new season with nine points from three Premier League matches .
After wins against Sheffield United and Fulham , Dean Smith 's side went into the international break with an astonishing 7-2 victory against Liverpool - the heaviest defeat inflicted on in the reigning champions in 57 years .
Ross Barkley marked his debut with a goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ becoming the latest Villa new boy to make an immediate impact .
Ollie Watkins has flourished since his move from Brentford - the club-record arrival netted a hat-trick against the Reds - while Matty Cash and Emiliano Martinez are already vital members of the starting XI .
The break came at an inconvenient time for Villa but Konsa says confidence is high ahead of the return to action against Leicester City on Sunday .
“ It ’ s been a great start for us , '' the defender told avfc.co.uk .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last season , and we need keep going and keep the focus on ourselves .
“ The chemistry in the squad has gone up another level and we keep building on that in training .
“ We ’ re definitely expecting a tough game against Leicester – it ’ s always tough against them .
They ’ re a very good team .
They lost their last game 3-0 ( against West Ham ) and I ’ m sure they ’ ll want to come back and get a victory.
” Konsa 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of defence appears to be going from strength to strength as the 22-year-old embarks on his second season at the club following his move from Brentford last year .
“ I ’ ve matured a lot from last season , '' he said .
“ I learnt a lot during my first season in the Premier League .
It was a great experience and a dream come true to play in the Premier League .
That was a dream come true for me and my family .
“ I ’ m still young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hopefully I can only get better .
“ What I need to do now is keep listening to the coaches , taking on advice from my teammates and keeping my head down .
I ’ ve got to keep working hard and producing on the weekend .
”

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Ezri Konsa believes the close-knit nature of Aston Villa's squad is on 'another level' to last season after a blistering start to the campaign.
Villa have brushed aside last term's relegation scrap to make a perfect start to the new season with nine points from three Premier League matches.
After wins against Sheffield United and Fulham, Dean Smith's side went into the international break with an astonishing 7-2 victory against Liverpool - the heaviest defeat inflicted on in the reigning champions in 57 years.
Ross Barkley marked his debut with a goal following his loan move from Chelsea, becoming the latest Villa new boy to make an immediate impact.
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Ollie Watkins has flourished since his move from Brentford - the club-record arrival netted a hat-trick against the Reds - while Matty Cash and Emiliano Martinez are already vital members of the starting XI.
The break came at an inconvenient time for Villa but Konsa says confidence is high ahead of the return to action against Leicester City on Sunday.
“It’s been a great start for us," the defender told avfc.co.uk. “We’ve carried on our form from last season, and we need keep going and keep the focus on ourselves.
“The chemistry in the squad has gone up another level and we keep building on that in training.
“We’re definitely expecting a tough game against Leicester – it’s always tough against them. They’re a very good team. They lost their last game 3-0 (against West Ham) and I’m sure they’ll want to come back and get a victory.”
Konsa's partnership with Tyrone Mings in the heart of defence appears to be going from strength to strength as the 22-year-old embarks on his second season at the club following his move from Brentford last year.
“I’ve matured a lot from last season," he said. “I learnt a lot during my first season in the Premier League. It was a great experience and a dream come true to play in the Premier League. That was a dream come true for me and my family.
“I’m still young, I’m still learning and hopefully I can only get better.
“What I need to do now is keep listening to the coaches, taking on advice from my teammates and keeping my head down. I’ve got to keep working hard and producing on the weekend.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Shots fired at two scenes in same neighbourhood - updates

Shots were fired at two properties in Bordesley Green within the space of half-an-hour .
Police were initially alerted to @ @ @ @ @ Road shortly before midnight on Wednesday , October 14 .
Officers were then called 30 @ @ @ @ @ to reports of a second shooting .
No-one was injured in either attack , but @ @ @ @ @ properties .
Yardley Green Road was closed near the junction of Blake Lane in Bordesley @ @ @ @ @ Stay with us for live updates .

Shots were fired at two properties in Bordesley Green within the space of half-an-hour.
Police were initially alerted to a shooting in Yardley Green Road shortly before midnight on Wednesday, October 14.
Officers were then called 30 minutes later to Churchill Road to reports of a second shooting.
No-one was injured in either attack, but there was damage to both properties.
Yardley Green Road was closed near the junction of Blake Lane in Bordesley Green on Thursday morning.
Stay with us for live updates.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--11 parts of West Midlands which face being added to tier 2 lockdown list

Eleven areas in the West Midlands risk being added to tier 2 lockdowns amid a rising rate of coronavirus cases .
Birmingham remains in tier two , with a rate of 184 per 100,000 people , while Solihull - also in the middle band - has a rate of 170 cases , rising from 111 last week .
Walsall and Wolverhampton have rates of 158 and 122 and remain in tier two restrictions , too .
But there are 11 parts of the region with rates higher than 100 cases per 100,000 people in the population - including the likes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus rate is not the only contributing factor for deciding which tier areas sit in , it is probably the most important .
The government also looks at whether areas are having rates skewed by single outbreaks , in places like university halls or factories , as well as hospitalisation rates .
In the West Midlands , Birmingham , Sandwell , Solihull , Wolverhampton and Walsall have all been placed in the second tier , as has Leicester and Oadby and Wigston .
Andy Street , the Conservative mayor of the West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' areas in his region , including Birmingham , Sandwell , Solihull , Walsall , and Wolverhampton , would be classified as Tier 2 - or `` high '' risk .
He said : `` Citizens and businesses in the region will be disappointed to hear that the majority of the WM will now be moving into Tier 2 and as a consequence will have stricter measures imposed .
`` This is not something regional leaders supported , nor what I believed would be happening following extensive conversations over recent days .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporting the existing restrictions .
We believed continuing these would have been the right call to protect both people 's lives and livelihoods .
`` The vast majority of people across the region have been superb in helping stop the spread of coronavirus in recent months .
This phenomenal effort under the current restrictions is slowing the rise of infections across the region , and also causing the rate to stabilise in some areas .
Overall our relative position in the UK is much improved .
`` The most important change between our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today is the ban on households mixing in hospitality venues .
This is something the latest local epidemiology does not support , and I am disappointed that the Government is pressing ahead with this despite the united view of local leaders . ''

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Eleven areas in the West Midlands risk being added to tier 2 lockdowns amid a rising rate of coronavirus cases.
Birmingham remains in tier two, with a rate of 184 per 100,000 people, while Solihull - also in the middle band - has a rate of 170 cases, rising from 111 last week.
Walsall and Wolverhampton have rates of 158 and 122 and remain in tier two restrictions, too.
But there are 11 parts of the region with rates higher than 100 cases per 100,000 people in the population - including the likes of Coventry and Newcastle-under-Lyme.
While the coronavirus rate is not the only contributing factor for deciding which tier areas sit in, it is probably the most important.
The government also looks at whether areas are having rates skewed by single outbreaks, in places like university halls or factories, as well as hospitalisation rates.
In the West Midlands, Birmingham, Sandwell, Solihull, Wolverhampton and Walsall have all been placed in the second tier, as has Leicester and Oadby and Wigston.
Andy Street, the Conservative mayor of the West Midlands, said he was "very disappointed" areas in his region, including Birmingham, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall, and Wolverhampton, would be classified as Tier 2 - or "high" risk.
He said: "Citizens and businesses in the region will be disappointed to hear that the majority of the WM will now be moving into Tier 2 and as a consequence will have stricter measures imposed.
"This is not something regional leaders supported, nor what I believed would be happening following extensive conversations over recent days. The region was united, cross-party, in supporting the existing restrictions. We believed continuing these would have been the right call to protect both people's lives and livelihoods.
"The vast majority of people across the region have been superb in helping stop the spread of coronavirus in recent months. This phenomenal effort under the current restrictions is slowing the rise of infections across the region, and also causing the rate to stabilise in some areas. Overall our relative position in the UK is much improved.
"The most important change between our current restrictions and the new ones announced today is the ban on households mixing in hospitality venues. This is something the latest local epidemiology does not support, and I am disappointed that the Government is pressing ahead with this despite the united view of local leaders."
Coventry 156.4 (581), 103.4 (384)
Newcastle-under-Lyme 142.9 (185), 108.9 (141)
South Staffordshire 130.7 (147), 86.3 (97)
Stafford 127.5 (175), 107.8 (148)
Bromsgrove 125.1 (125), 105.1 (105)
Stoke-on-Trent 106.9 (274), 60.8 (156)
Rugby 104.6 (114), 82.6 (90)
Warwick 103.7 (149), 56.3 (81)
East Staffordshire 102.7 (123), 55.1 (66)
Staffordshire Moorlands 102.6 (101), 58.9 (58)
Tamworth 101.7 (78), 50.9 (39)


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Drug dealer jailed after he smashed into police car - leaving officer trapped

A drug dealer has been jailed after he smashed into a police car during a chase - leaving an officer trapped .
Dwain Trevor Francis sparked the pursuit when he failed to stop as he drove a white BMW in Tamworth on January 21 .
He collided with a red Vauxhall Corsa , a white Volkswagen Golf and then two police cars in Lud Lane and Ludgate .
The officer had to be cut out of an unmarked Skoda Octavia VRS police car by firefighters .
He was taken to hospital with head and neck injuries .
He is now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receiving physiotherapy , Staffordshire Police said .
Francis , 35 , of Barnwood Road , Quinton , was jailed for five years and eight months for dangerous driving at Stafford Crown Court on Tuesday , October 13 .
Halso admitting possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine .
Det Insp Tim Boulton , of Staffordshire Police , said : `` This was reckless and dangerous driving in a bid to get away from officers and avoid discovery of the heroin and cocaine .
`` Francis injured an officer who is still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of the public .
We ’ re glad he ’ s been sentenced for his actions . ''

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A drug dealer has been jailed after he smashed into a police car during a chase - leaving an officer trapped.
Dwain Trevor Francis sparked the pursuit when he failed to stop as he drove a white BMW in Tamworth on January 21.
He collided with a red Vauxhall Corsa, a white Volkswagen Golf and then two police cars in Lud Lane and Ludgate.
The officer had to be cut out of an unmarked Skoda Octavia VRS police car by firefighters. He was taken to hospital with head and neck injuries.
(Image: Staffs Police)
He is now back at work on restricted duties and receiving physiotherapy, Staffordshire Police said.
Francis, 35, of Barnwood Road, Quinton, was jailed for five years and eight months for dangerous driving at Stafford Crown Court on Tuesday, October 13.
Halso admitting possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine.
(Image: Mark Harper)
Det Insp Tim Boulton, of Staffordshire Police, said: "This was reckless and dangerous driving in a bid to get away from officers and avoid discovery of the heroin and cocaine.
"Francis injured an officer who is still receiving treatment and could have seriously hurt members of the public. We’re glad he’s been sentenced for his actions."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Sheffield Wednesday insider's view of Blues and Garry Monk

Birmingham City resume their Championship campaign this weekend with Sheffield Wednesday arriving at St Andrew ’ s for the first of seven matches in three weeks for Aitor Karanka ’ s men .
The game represents a return to his former stomping ground Garry Monk and is unlikely to contain any of the personal vitriol when he was last here following the breakdown of his relationship with last season ’ s head coach Pep Clotet .
While the cameras captured an image of the two men smiling and shaking hands , there were no buried hatchets .
Anyway , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bridge and Monk will face a Birmingham City team built for comfort rather than style and one that thas made an excellent start to the campaign .
As for Monk ’ s men , they have made decent inroads into erasing the 12-point deduction handed down by the EFL .
We spoke to YorkshireLive ’ s Owls writer Dom Howson for the state of play at Hillsborough .
What is the mood at the club following points deduction and what are the expectations for the season ?
DH : The mood is fairly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the points deduction .
Garry Monk has been operating with a reduced playing budget but Wednesday have done some shrewd business in the transfer market , bringing in experienced Championship players in Chey Dunkley , Izzy Brown , Elias Kachunga and Callum Paterson .
Monk has tried to use the points deduction to create a siege mentality within the club .
He knows the team are up against it but wants them to set their sights higher than just survival .
But I think if you offered most Wednesdayites a fourth from bottom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snap your hands off .
How is Garry Monk viewed by the Wednesday supporters ?
DH : It is fair to say he polarises opinion among the fan-base .
Some feel he inherited a rough hand and deserves an opportunity to assemble a squad in his vision .
He has only had two transfer windows to work in .
Others have lost patience with Monk following their poor form in 2020 and believe he is not the right person to take them forward .
If he is to silence his critics , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the board .
How have they done so far this season ?
Five points is a decent haul given the opposition they have faced .
Cardiff finished in the play-offs last year , Watford are expected to be there or thereabouts and Bristol City should also feature in the promotion race .
They have performed well in fits and starts without managing to string anything tangible together over 90 minutes .
There is room for improvement but they are on the right lines .
What are Wednesday ’ s strengths and weaknesses ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brown , Barry Bannan and Massimo Luongo are top performers at this level .
On their day , they are a match for anyone in this division .
Defensively the Owls have been much-improved this term , conceding just three goals .
They have looked more solid since switching to a 3-5-2 formation .
Their main weakness is in front of goal .
Paterson ’ s arrival has bolstered their forward line but doubts still remain over whether they possess enough goals to beat the drop .
Only time will tell .
How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DH : I expect Wednesday to adopt a fairly conservative approach .
I think they will look to be compact , defend in numbers and hit Birmingham on the counter attack .
It ’ s a cliché but I think the first goal will be absolutely crucial .
I think Wednesday have got quality in the attacking areas to hurt Birmingham so I am going to go for a narrow away win .

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Birmingham City resume their Championship campaign this weekend with Sheffield Wednesday arriving at St Andrew’s for the first of seven matches in three weeks for Aitor Karanka’s men.
The game represents a return to his former stomping ground Garry Monk and is unlikely to contain any of the personal vitriol when he was last here following the breakdown of his relationship with last season’s head coach Pep Clotet.
While the cameras captured an image of the two men smiling and shaking hands, there were no buried hatchets.
Anyway, that’s all water until the footballing bridge and Monk will face a Birmingham City team built for comfort rather than style and one that thas made an excellent start to the campaign.
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As for Monk’s men, they have made decent inroads into erasing the 12-point deduction handed down by the EFL.
We spoke to YorkshireLive’s Owls writer Dom Howson for the state of play at Hillsborough.
What is the mood at the club following points deduction and what are the expectations for the season?
DH: The mood is fairly positive, despite their precarious position with the points deduction. Garry Monk has been operating with a reduced playing budget but Wednesday have done some shrewd business in the transfer market, bringing in experienced Championship players in Chey Dunkley, Izzy Brown, Elias Kachunga and Callum Paterson.
Monk has tried to use the points deduction to create a siege mentality within the club. He knows the team are up against it but wants them to set their sights higher than just survival.
But I think if you offered most Wednesdayites a fourth from bottom finish right now, they would gladly snap your hands off.
How is Garry Monk viewed by the Wednesday supporters?
DH: It is fair to say he polarises opinion among the fan-base.
Some feel he inherited a rough hand and deserves an opportunity to assemble a squad in his vision. He has only had two transfer windows to work in.
Others have lost patience with Monk following their poor form in 2020 and believe he is not the right person to take them forward.
If he is to silence his critics, he needs to start getting some wins on the board.
How have they done so far this season?
DH: Reasonably well.
Five points is a decent haul given the opposition they have faced. Cardiff finished in the play-offs last year, Watford are expected to be there or thereabouts and Bristol City should also feature in the promotion race.
They have performed well in fits and starts without managing to string anything tangible together over 90 minutes. There is room for improvement but they are on the right lines.
What are Wednesday’s strengths and weaknesses?
DH: The midfield engine room. Brown, Barry Bannan and Massimo Luongo are top performers at this level. On their day, they are a match for anyone in this division.
Defensively the Owls have been much-improved this term, conceding just three goals. They have looked more solid since switching to a 3-5-2 formation.
Their main weakness is in front of goal. Paterson’s arrival has bolstered their forward line but doubts still remain over whether they possess enough goals to beat the drop. Only time will tell.
How do you see the game going?
DH: I expect Wednesday to adopt a fairly conservative approach. I think they will look to be compact, defend in numbers and hit Birmingham on the counter attack.
It’s a cliché but I think the first goal will be absolutely crucial.
I think Wednesday have got quality in the attacking areas to hurt Birmingham so I am going to go for a narrow away win.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Drive-in firework display announced near Birmingham for Bonfire Night

A garden centre which is situated just a stone 's throw from Birmingham is due to hold a drive-in firework display for Bonfire Night .
The event has been set up by Webbs of Wychbold , in Worcs.
, amid a three tier lockdown system and rising rate of Covid-19 cases .
Coronavirus cases and deaths are continuing to rise across the country , with Halloween and Bonfire Night effectively cancelled .
The events have been thrown into doubt amid a ban on households mixing and emphasis on social distancing .
But now a garden centre in Worcestershire is planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crowds and help it meet regulations and restrictions around the pandemic .
Organisers will allocate standing area to each car load , to keep them apart .
Organisers say : `` Please begin arrival from 7:00pm with the Firework display scheduled to begin at 8:00pm . ''
They add : `` Join us as we light up the skies over Webbs , Wychbold with an awe-inspiring firework show to kick off the festive period in style .
`` Enjoy from the comfort of your vehicle or in your own safe dedicated standing area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be given its own designated parking space with an additional zone for you to view the fireworks from outside of your vehicle whilst also maintaining social distancing from other attendees .

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A garden centre which is situated just a stone's throw from Birmingham is due to hold a drive-in firework display for Bonfire Night.
The event has been set up by Webbs of Wychbold, in Worcs., amid a three tier lockdown system and rising rate of Covid-19 cases.
Coronavirus cases and deaths are continuing to rise across the country, with Halloween and Bonfire Night effectively cancelled.
The events have been thrown into doubt amid a ban on households mixing and emphasis on social distancing.
But now a garden centre in Worcestershire is planning a drive-in firework display, to avoid crowds and help it meet regulations and restrictions around the pandemic.
Organisers will allocate standing area to each car load, to keep them apart.
The event takes place on November 7.
Organisers say: "Please begin arrival from 7:00pm with the Firework display scheduled to begin at 8:00pm."
They add: "Join us as we light up the skies over Webbs, Wychbold with an awe-inspiring firework show to kick off the festive period in style.
"Enjoy from the comfort of your vehicle or in your own safe dedicated standing area next to your vehicle.
"The show lasts roughly 20 minutes."
Ticket price is £25.00 per vehicle.
Each vehicle will be given its own designated parking space with an additional zone for you to view the fireworks from outside of your vehicle whilst also maintaining social distancing from other attendees.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--The two blood groups far more likely to catch coronavirus

If you have a bloody type of O , you are far less likely to catch coronavirus .
That is according to new analysis , which suggests your blood type determines your chances of catching the deadly bug .
If you 're O , you 're less likely to catch Covid-19 , the study suggests , and their risk of severe complications such as organ failure - and even death - is also reduced .
Scientists also say individuals with blood types A and AB are most vulnerable .
The findings come from two independent studies , with one analysing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group of 2.2 million others .
Lead author Dr Torben Barington , of Odense University Hospital , said : `` It is very important to consider the proper control group because blood type prevalence may vary considerably in different ethnic groups and different countries .
`` We have the advantage of a strong control group - Denmark is a small , ethnically homogenous country with a public health system and a central registry for lab data .
So our control is population-based , giving our findings a strong foundation . ''
Lead author @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of British Columbia , said : `` The unique part of our study is our focus on the severity effect of blood type on Covid-19 .
`` We observed this lung and kidney damage , and in future studies , we will want to tease out the effect of blood group and Covid-19 on other vital organs .
`` Of particular importance as we continue to traverse the pandemic , we now have a wide range of survivors who are exiting the acute part of Covid-19 , but we need to explore mechanisms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer-term effects . ''

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If you have a bloody type of O, you are far less likely to catch coronavirus.
That is according to new analysis, which suggests your blood type determines your chances of catching the deadly bug.
If you're O, you're less likely to catch Covid-19, the study suggests, and their risk of severe complications such as organ failure - and even death - is also reduced.
Scientists also say individuals with blood types A and AB are most vulnerable.
The findings come from two independent studies, with one analysing 437,000 positive Covid-19 patients to a control group of 2.2 million others.
Lead author Dr Torben Barington, of Odense University Hospital, said: "It is very important to consider the proper control group because blood type prevalence may vary considerably in different ethnic groups and different countries.
"We have the advantage of a strong control group - Denmark is a small, ethnically homogenous country with a public health system and a central registry for lab data. So our control is population-based, giving our findings a strong foundation."
Lead author Dr Mypinder Sekhon, of the University of British Columbia, said: "The unique part of our study is our focus on the severity effect of blood type on Covid-19.
"We observed this lung and kidney damage, and in future studies, we will want to tease out the effect of blood group and Covid-19 on other vital organs.
"Of particular importance as we continue to traverse the pandemic, we now have a wide range of survivors who are exiting the acute part of Covid-19, but we need to explore mechanisms by which to risk stratify those with longer-term effects."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--'Don't pretend you don't know the rules' -  pub plea to customers

A Birmingham pub has pleaded with customers to help it stay open - by not trying to cheat the latest coronavirus rules .
The Bulls Head , off Stratford Road in Hall Green , urged regulars to co-operate `` in these hard times '' by not pretending mixed groups were one household .
Friends and relatives who do n't live together ca n't meet in hospitality venues under new rules covering Birmingham and much of the wider West Midlands .
The city , along with Solihull and most of the Black Country , is in tier two of the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic .
And the Ember Inns venue asked customers to work with staff to ensure the doors remained open - asking them not to turn up `` pretending they did n't know the rules '' .
Its Facebook post read : “ Unfortunately the governments new tiers have put Birmingham and therefore The Bulls head is in Tier 2 ( High ) .
“ This means guests must not mix with other households or bubbles indoors .
“ If you have an online booking with us please review this and cancel if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as if you are unable to make the booking someone else may be able to but can ’ t book in your slot .
'The VAT cut is certainly a welcome measure ' Five-star Lough Erne Resort is among many businesses in Northern Ireland currently reaping the benefits of the temporary VAT reduction from 20 to five per cent .
`` The VAT cut is certainly a welcome measure , '' says general manager Joanne Walsh .
`` It ’ s helping the tourism sector against a backdrop of increased costs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up suddenly due to the pandemic . ''
The company behind the award-winning resort also made use of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to furlough its valued staff .
`` The UK Government support for the Northern Ireland economy has been really beneficial , especially the Job Retention Scheme , ” says Joanne .
“ We ’ re proud to have a team who care passionately about delivering an exemplary guest experience – and proud they are going the extra mile since the return from lockdown . ''
“ Please do not come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t know the rules , or that your group is 1 household when it isn ’ t .
“ No we aren ’ t the police , we are just trying to do a job with the laws handed down to us .
“ Please help us to stay open under these hard times .
“ Thanks in advance Abby and the Team.
” Other areas in the amber level - branded ‘ high ’ risk by government officials - include Sandwell , Solihull , Walsall and Wolverhampton .
The pub and dining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ household mixing ban was introduced in the face of cross-party opposition from Midland politicians and business owners .
Wolverhampton-based pub chain Marston ’ s has announced plans to cut 2,150 jobs due to the impact of the government ’ s new coronavirus restrictions across the country .
And Birmingham-based All Bar One owner Mitchells & Butlers has started redundancy consultations with staff as it struggles with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic .
The pub and bar group , which also owns Harvester and Toby Carvery , said it was facing “ significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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A Birmingham pub has pleaded with customers to help it stay open - by not trying to cheat the latest coronavirus rules.
The Bulls Head, off Stratford Road in Hall Green, urged regulars to co-operate "in these hard times" by not pretending mixed groups were one household.
Friends and relatives who don't live together can't meet in hospitality venues under new rules covering Birmingham and much of the wider West Midlands.
The city, along with Solihull and most of the Black Country, is in tier two of the Government's three-tier system setting out rules for the pandemic.
And the Ember Inns venue asked customers to work with staff to ensure the doors remained open - asking them not to turn up "pretending they didn't know the rules".
Its Facebook post read: “Unfortunately the governments new tiers have put Birmingham and therefore The Bulls head is in Tier 2 (High).
“This means guests must not mix with other households or bubbles indoors.
“If you have an online booking with us please review this and cancel if necessary (using your email confirmation), as if you are unable to make the booking someone else may be able to but can’t book in your slot.
'The VAT cut is certainly a welcome measure' Five-star Lough Erne Resort is among many businesses in Northern Ireland currently reaping the benefits of the temporary VAT reduction from 20 to five per cent. "The VAT cut is certainly a welcome measure," says general manager Joanne Walsh. "It’s helping the tourism sector against a backdrop of increased costs and major parts of our revenue streams drying up suddenly due to the pandemic." The company behind the award-winning resort also made use of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to furlough its valued staff. "The UK Government support for the Northern Ireland economy has been really beneficial, especially the Job Retention Scheme,” says Joanne. “We’re proud to have a team who care passionately about delivering an exemplary guest experience – and proud they are going the extra mile since the return from lockdown."
“Please do not come to the pub claiming you didn’t know the rules, or that your group is 1 household when it isn’t.
“No we aren’t the police, we are just trying to do a job with the laws handed down to us.
“Please help us to stay open under these hard times.
“Thanks in advance Abby and the Team.”
Other areas in the amber level - branded ‘high’ risk by government officials - include Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
The pub and dining industry is facing new turmoil after the household mixing ban was introduced in the face of cross-party opposition from Midland politicians and business owners.
Wolverhampton-based pub chain Marston’s has announced plans to cut 2,150 jobs due to the impact of the government’s new coronavirus restrictions across the country.
And Birmingham-based All Bar One owner Mitchells & Butlers has started redundancy consultations with staff as it struggles with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
The pub and bar group, which also owns Harvester and Toby Carvery, said it was facing “significant difficulties” after the restrictions tightened again.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Wolves warned there is 'no chance' of securing Michael Olise transfer

Wolverhampton Wanderers are being linked with a move for highly-rated Reading midfielder Michael Olise .
According to the Daily Mail , Nuno Espirito Santo 's side have emerged as a potential suitor for the France Under-18 international late in the window .
Premier League clubs are able to do business with their counterparts in the EFL until the domestic transfer deadline at 5pm on Friday .
Olise spent time in Manchester City and Chelsea 's youth systems before making his senior debut for Reading last year toward the end of the 2018-19 season .
He has started all four of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ term , scoring once and grabbing two assists having been given a key role in Veljko Paunovic 's side .
Wolves ' Premier League rivals Leeds United and Arsenal are also said to be tracking Olise , who can play across the midfield .
The Mail say it is 'likely ' that he will leave the Madejski Stadium to be snapped up by a top-flight club .
But Reading fans are convinced it would take a huge fee to land the teen talent , who has another two years left to run on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporter on social media said : `` £50mil then we can talk . ''
`` Olise value is between 15 to 25 million so unless it meets those fees then Reading FC will not sell him , '' responded another .
A third wrote : `` £30m plus and we get to be one of the new voting powers of the Prem , then we can talk . ''
`` Wo n't happen , '' replied one fan giving short shrift to the reports .
While a fifth simply said : `` No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players for Nuno 's squad during the international window and the emphasis at Molineux is expected to be on potential departures up until tomorrow 's deadline .

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Wolverhampton Wanderers are being linked with a move for highly-rated Reading midfielder Michael Olise.
According to the Daily Mail, Nuno Espirito Santo's side have emerged as a potential suitor for the France Under-18 international late in the window.
Premier League clubs are able to do business with their counterparts in the EFL until the domestic transfer deadline at 5pm on Friday.
Olise spent time in Manchester City and Chelsea's youth systems before making his senior debut for Reading last year toward the end of the 2018-19 season.
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He has started all four of Reading's Championship matches so far this term, scoring once and grabbing two assists having been given a key role in Veljko Paunovic's side.
Wolves' Premier League rivals Leeds United and Arsenal are also said to be tracking Olise, who can play across the midfield.
The Mail say it is 'likely' that he will leave the Madejski Stadium to be snapped up by a top-flight club.
But Reading fans are convinced it would take a huge fee to land the teen talent, who has another two years left to run on his contract with the Royals.
One supporter on social media said: "£50mil then we can talk."
"Olise value is between 15 to 25 million so unless it meets those fees then Reading FC will not sell him," responded another.
A third wrote: "£30m plus and we get to be one of the new voting powers of the Prem, then we can talk."
"Won't happen," replied one fan giving short shrift to the reports.
While a fifth simply said: "No chance."
Wolves signed six new players for Nuno's squad during the international window and the emphasis at Molineux is expected to be on potential departures up until tomorrow's deadline.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Confirmed - London will move into tier 2 lockdown from midnight

London will be moved to Tier 2 coronavirus restrictions from midnight on Friday , MPs in the capital have been told .
The talks were to take place amid reports the Government 's Joint Biosecurity Centre had recommended most of the North West and North East of England , as well as parts of Yorkshire and the Midlands , should be moved into Tier 3 .
London Mayor Sadiq Khan was also continuing discussions with ministers on Thursday .
In a letter to the Prime Minister , he said that with the infection rate approaching approaching 100 cases per 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be needed `` very soon '' - possibly as early as this week .
He joined other regional leaders in calling for more significant financial support for businesses and individuals facing hardship from the measures .
Professor Calum Semple , a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) informing the Government 's Covid-19 response , said Manchester and other regions are in need of Tier 3 measures .
`` There is always going to be some friction between the focus on the numbers of case , and the need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from a purely academic point of view where I 'm coming from , if you allow the numbers to rise it inevitably has an impact on the economy because you start to lose the capacity to deliver these other essential services , '' he told BBC Breakfast .
Meanwhile , Northern Ireland is braced for the toughest controls in the UK so far with pubs and restaurants set to close for four weeks from Friday and schools facing a two week shutdown .
And the UK Government described a decision by the Welsh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from other parts of the UK with high levels of coronavirus infection as `` disappointing '' .
Mr Johnson remains desperate to avoid any form of national lockdown - despite demands from Labour for a temporary `` circuit-breaker '' to break the train of transmission and stem the spread of the disease .
In the Commons on Wednesday , he urged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to use his influence with Labour authorities in the North to agree to `` stringent measures '' to get the rates down .
But in an online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if Greater Manchester was placed into Tier 3 it would be `` by imposition , not consent '' .
He warned that he could take legal actions to ensure residents were protected from the economic fallout of tougher restrictions .
`` We are law abiding people , we would respect the law of the land , '' he said .
`` But we would consider other routes , legal routes , where we could protect our many thousands of residents who are going to be left in severe hardship in the run up @ @ @ @

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London will be moved to Tier 2 coronavirus restrictions from midnight on Friday, MPs in the capital have been told.
The talks were to take place amid reports the Government's Joint Biosecurity Centre had recommended most of the North West and North East of England, as well as parts of Yorkshire and the Midlands, should be moved into Tier 3.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan was also continuing discussions with ministers on Thursday.
In a letter to the Prime Minister, he said that with the infection rate approaching approaching 100 cases per 100,000 head of population, new measures would be needed "very soon" - possibly as early as this week.
He joined other regional leaders in calling for more significant financial support for businesses and individuals facing hardship from the measures.
Professor Calum Semple, a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) informing the Government's Covid-19 response, said Manchester and other regions are in need of Tier 3 measures.
"There is always going to be some friction between the focus on the numbers of case, and the need to keep the economy going, but from a purely academic point of view where I'm coming from, if you allow the numbers to rise it inevitably has an impact on the economy because you start to lose the capacity to deliver these other essential services," he told BBC Breakfast.
Meanwhile, Northern Ireland is braced for the toughest controls in the UK so far with pubs and restaurants set to close for four weeks from Friday and schools facing a two week shutdown.
And the UK Government described a decision by the Welsh Government to ban travel to the country from other parts of the UK with high levels of coronavirus infection as "disappointing".
Mr Johnson remains desperate to avoid any form of national lockdown - despite demands from Labour for a temporary "circuit-breaker" to break the train of transmission and stem the spread of the disease.
In the Commons on Wednesday, he urged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to use his influence with Labour authorities in the North to agree to "stringent measures" to get the rates down.
But in an online press conference, Mr Burnham said that if Greater Manchester was placed into Tier 3 it would be "by imposition, not consent".
He warned that he could take legal actions to ensure residents were protected from the economic fallout of tougher restrictions.
"We are law abiding people, we would respect the law of the land," he said.
"But we would consider other routes, legal routes, where we could protect our many thousands of residents who are going to be left in severe hardship in the run up to Christmas."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Tier 2 lockdown areas could move into tier 3 'at any stage'

How long will the tier two lockdown in Birmingham last ?
That is the question on everybody 's lips after Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled the new three tier system earlier this week .
The length of the tier two lockdown is , in essence , under constant review .
Each lockdown tier 's length varies , but tier two lockdowns are being kept under constant review .
This means that the tier could be heightened - from tier two to tier three , the strictest and most severe tier - at any stage .
Any authority could be upgraded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one at any time , according to the government .
Tier three lockdowns , which only applies to the Liverpool City region currently , are the only ones with a time limit .
Liverpool City will be subject to a four-week sunset clause when the restrictions kick in .
But Liverpool could be joined by areas in the North East , North West and Greater Manchester today , according to reports .
Ministers were holding talks with MPs and other leaders in those regions on Thursday morning ahead of Health Secretary Matt Hancock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham , who has been resisting following the Liverpool City Region into Tier 3 restrictions , was to hold talks with No 10 as he demands greater financial support .
London , meanwhile , could see its tier worsened , from tier one to tier two , which would mean a ban on households mixing .
Tier 2 lockdown rules essentially bans all households mixing - even in hospitality - with outdoor means being advised against by the government .

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How long will the tier two lockdown in Birmingham last? That is the question on everybody's lips after Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled the new three tier system earlier this week.
The length of the tier two lockdown is, in essence, under constant review.
Each lockdown tier's length varies, but tier two lockdowns are being kept under constant review.
This means that the tier could be heightened - from tier two to tier three, the strictest and most severe tier - at any stage.
Any authority could be upgraded to tier three or downgraded to tier one at any time, according to the government.
Tier three lockdowns, which only applies to the Liverpool City region currently, are the only ones with a time limit.
Liverpool City will be subject to a four-week sunset clause when the restrictions kick in.
But Liverpool could be joined by areas in the North East, North West and Greater Manchester today, according to reports.
Ministers were holding talks with MPs and other leaders in those regions on Thursday morning ahead of Health Secretary Matt Hancock giving a Commons update on the measures.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who has been resisting following the Liverpool City Region into Tier 3 restrictions, was to hold talks with No 10 as he demands greater financial support.
London, meanwhile, could see its tier worsened, from tier one to tier two, which would mean a ban on households mixing.
Tier 2 lockdown rules essentially bans all households mixing - even in hospitality - with outdoor means being advised against by the government.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--When is Matt Hancock's announcement today and what he is expected to say

Matt Hancock will deliver a speech today as changes to the lockdown tiers are anticipated .
Reports on Thursday morning suggest the Health Secretary could announce changes to Lancashire , Greater Manchester and even London .
Swathes of the North West could be added to the third lockdown tier , the most serious , while London could move into tier two .
Mr Hancock will make a statement in the House of Commons today ( Thursday ) as he will update MPs on the latest measures in a Commons statement at 11.30am .
Lancashire and Greater Manchester are anticipated to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the North East could also see changes to parts of its region .
London could be added to tier two alongside swathes of the West Midlands - including Birmingham - which would see a ban on households mixing .
It comes as Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has written on Twitter about measures , including an increase in testing capacity , to protect people living in the capital and bring Covid-19 under control .
Alongside a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson , Mr Khan wrote : `` Urgent action is needed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control in our city ... '' Government must provide proper financial help to all businesses and vulnerable Londoners affected by restrictions , as well as local authorities who support them .
`` It is essential that no one should be faced with added financial hardship through redundancy or a loss of earnings , and is able to access benefits or crisis support straight away should they need to .
`` We also need an immediate increase in testing capacity so that London 's testing rates can increase to the national average . ''

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Matt Hancock will deliver a speech today as changes to the lockdown tiers are anticipated.
Reports on Thursday morning suggest the Health Secretary could announce changes to Lancashire, Greater Manchester and even London.
Swathes of the North West could be added to the third lockdown tier, the most serious, while London could move into tier two.
Mr Hancock will make a statement in the House of Commons today (Thursday) as he will update MPs on the latest measures in a Commons statement at 11.30am.
Lancashire and Greater Manchester are anticipated to join Liverpool in tier three, while the North East could also see changes to parts of its region.
London could be added to tier two alongside swathes of the West Midlands - including Birmingham - which would see a ban on households mixing.
It comes as Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has written on Twitter about measures, including an increase in testing capacity, to protect people living in the capital and bring Covid-19 under control.
Alongside a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Mr Khan wrote: "Urgent action is needed to protect Londoners and bring the virus under control in our city...
"Government must provide proper financial help to all businesses and vulnerable Londoners affected by restrictions, as well as local authorities who support them.
"It is essential that no one should be faced with added financial hardship through redundancy or a loss of earnings, and is able to access benefits or crisis support straight away should they need to.
"We also need an immediate increase in testing capacity so that London's testing rates can increase to the national average."


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Schools boss stunned as ex-pupils, 16, killed in crash

The leader of a chain of schools spoke of his shock after it emerged four teenagers involved in an horrific crash were former pupils .
Two of them , girls only aged 16 , died after a Skoda Fabia smashed into a tree in Bromley Lane , Kingswinford , on Tuesday night , October 13 .
The other two , an 18-year-old man and another girl of 16 , were seriously injured and in hospital .
One of the girls who died was named by police as Lucy Tibbetts .
The 21-year-old driver , who also died , was named @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chief executive officer of the Invictus Education Trust , paid tribute to the `` two wonderful young ladies '' who were killed .
They were former pupils of Crestwood School and Wombourne High School , which are both part of the chain .
He said : `` We received the desperately sad news that five young people were travelling in a vehicle that collided with a tree in Kingswinford .
`` Two teenage girls and a man in his 20s , the driver of the vehicle , lost their lives at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tragedy has been made all the more painful after we received the news that four of the five people involved were former Invictus students .
`` It is with a heavy heart we are to announce the two teenage girls were former students of Crestwood School and Wombourne High School .
`` We would like to extend our most sincere condolences to the families , our thoughts and prayers are with you and we are so sorry for your loss , two wonderful young ladies who we were immensely proud of .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the collision and are currently in critical condition in hospital , again our thoughts and prayers are with their families , everyone at Crestwood , Wombourne High School and Invictus Education Trust are hoping and praying for a swift and full recovery . ''
Pc Chris Ridge , from West Midlands Police 's collision investigation unit , said : `` This is a devastating time for the families of those involved , and we have specially trained officers who are supporting them through this difficult time .
`` The loss of these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for all involved .
All families wish to have their privacy respected at this difficult time .
“ We ’ re still working through a number of lines of investigation as we try to understand what happened and why .
`` Anyone who saw the Skoda driving in the area last night , or who may have captured anything on dash-cam footage , is urged to get in touch with us as soon as possible . ''
If you have information contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk , quoting log 4469 of @ @ @

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The leader of a chain of schools spoke of his shock after it emerged four teenagers involved in an horrific crash were former pupils.
Two of them, girls only aged 16, died after a Skoda Fabia smashed into a tree in Bromley Lane, Kingswinford, on Tuesday night, October 13.
The other two, an 18-year-old man and another girl of 16, were seriously injured and in hospital.
One of the girls who died was named by police as Lucy Tibbetts. The 21-year-old driver, who also died, was named as Joshua Parkes.
Tony Bowles, the chief executive officer of the Invictus Education Trust, paid tribute to the "two wonderful young ladies" who were killed.
They were former pupils of Crestwood School and Wombourne High School, which are both part of the chain.
He said: "We received the desperately sad news that five young people were travelling in a vehicle that collided with a tree in Kingswinford.
"Two teenage girls and a man in his 20s, the driver of the vehicle, lost their lives at the scene.
"For us, this tragedy has been made all the more painful after we received the news that four of the five people involved were former Invictus students.
"It is with a heavy heart we are to announce the two teenage girls were former students of Crestwood School and Wombourne High School.
"We would like to extend our most sincere condolences to the families, our thoughts and prayers are with you and we are so sorry for your loss, two wonderful young ladies who we were immensely proud of.
"Two other former students were also involved in the collision and are currently in critical condition in hospital, again our thoughts and prayers are with their families, everyone at Crestwood, Wombourne High School and Invictus Education Trust are hoping and praying for a swift and full recovery."
Pc Chris Ridge, from West Midlands Police's collision investigation unit, said: "This is a devastating time for the families of those involved, and we have specially trained officers who are supporting them through this difficult time.
"The loss of these young lives is shocking and deeply upsetting for all involved. All families wish to have their privacy respected at this difficult time.
“We’re still working through a number of lines of investigation as we try to understand what happened and why.
"Anyone who saw the Skoda driving in the area last night, or who may have captured anything on dash-cam footage, is urged to get in touch with us as soon as possible."
If you have information contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk, quoting log 4469 of 13 October.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--'Act now on lockdown' - city scientist calls for urgent restrictions

The Birmingham scientist who has set up the city 's first testing lab for coronavirus has joined a clamour for tougher restrictions , saying we are at a critical moment .
Prof Alan McNally , director of Birmingham University 's world-class microbiology and infection institute , previously called for pubs , restaurants and gyms to shut and travel to be limited as part of lockdown moves to reduce infection spread .
He is among the 80-plus international scientists and researchers to sign a letter published in today 's The Lancet setting out the evidence for urgent action .
The letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk continuing misery .
The signatories condemn a `` herd immunity '' approach as `` a dangerous fallacy unsupported by scientific evidence '' .
The evidence they set out for urgent action now includes : • The infection fatality rate of COVID-19 is several-fold higher than that of seasonal influenza , and infection can lead to persisting illness , including in young , previously healthy people ( long Covid ) • It is unclear how long protective immunity lasts and , like other seasonal coronaviruses , SARS-CoV-2 is capable of re-infecting people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the virus can be mitigated through physical distancing , use of face coverings , hand and respiratory hygiene , and by avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces • But rapid testing , contact tracing , and isolation are also critical to controlling transmission - and we do not yet have that in place .
They conclude stricter measures now will allow suppression of the virus sufficiently to allow effective test and trace measures to follows .
Without it , they fear `` an unacceptable burden '' on the economy and healthcare workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 or experienced trauma as a result of having to practise disaster medicine .
In their concluding remarks , the signatories - who include professors and research specialists in the virus from across the world , including Oxford and Harvard - take aim at the Government 's public health response by contrasting it with Japan , Vietnam and New Zealand .
`` ( They ) have shown that robust public health responses can control transmission , allowing life to return to near-normal , and there are many such success stories . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street warned restrictions imposed on his region of 2.8 million people would devastate businesses and cause an “ avoidable domino-effect across local economies ” because they came without financial support .
In a letter to the chancellor , Rishi Sunak , he demanded a targeted job support scheme , funding for local government to facilitate grants and extended tax relief for hospitality firms in his area .
He echoes a similar appeal made by a union of Birmingham politicians , businesses , trades unions and others , who are also pressing the chancellor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitality sector .
This need for economic measures to support restrictions is also a theme in the Lancet letter .
The scientists said : `` Effective measures that suppress and control transmission need to be implemented widely , and they must be supported by financial and social programmes that encourage community responses and address the inequities that have been amplified by the pandemic .
`` Continuing restrictions will probably be required in the short term , to reduce transmission and fix ineffective pandemic response systems , in order to prevent future lockdowns .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions is to `` effectively suppress SARS-CoV-2 infections to low levels that allow rapid detection of localised outbreaks and rapid response through efficient and comprehensive find , test , trace , isolate , and support systems so life can return to near-normal without the need for generalised restrictions . ''
`` Protecting our economies is inextricably tied to controlling COVID-19 .
We must protect our workforce and avoid long-term uncertainty . ''
They end : `` We can not afford distractions that undermine an effective response ; it is essential that we act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prof McNally has set up and leads a new swab analysis lab , based at the University of Birmingham ’ s Medical School , that will eventually process over 3,000 tests a day , with capacity increasing over winter .
He has impeccable credentials in this field - he was Infectious Disease Lead at the government ’ s first flagship Lighthouse Lab in Milton Keynes .
The joint letter comes as pressure mounts on the Government to do more as infection rates rocket across the country .
Birmingham 's infection rate is now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ puts it at 180 per 100,000 cases .
It is currently rated 'high risk ' and ranked in the second tier of the Government 's new three tier warning system .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to announce new restrictions in some hotspot areas later today .

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The Birmingham scientist who has set up the city's first testing lab for coronavirus has joined a clamour for tougher restrictions, saying we are at a critical moment.
Prof Alan McNally, director of Birmingham University's world-class microbiology and infection institute, previously called for pubs, restaurants and gyms to shut and travel to be limited as part of lockdown moves to reduce infection spread.
He is among the 80-plus international scientists and researchers to sign a letter published in today's The Lancet setting out the evidence for urgent action.
The letter implores the Government to do more or risk continuing misery.
The signatories condemn a "herd immunity" approach as "a dangerous fallacy unsupported by scientific evidence".
The evidence they set out for urgent action now includes:
The infection fatality rate of COVID-19 is several-fold higher than that of seasonal influenza, and infection can lead to persisting illness, including in young, previously healthy people (long Covid)
It is unclear how long protective immunity lasts and, like other seasonal coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2 is capable of re-infecting people who have already had the disease
Transmission of the virus can be mitigated through physical distancing, use of face coverings, hand and respiratory hygiene, and by avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces
But rapid testing, contact tracing, and isolation are also critical to controlling transmission - and we do not yet have that in place.
They conclude stricter measures now will allow suppression of the virus sufficiently to allow effective test and trace measures to follows.
Without it, they fear "an unacceptable burden" on the economy and healthcare workers, many of whom have died from COVID-19 or experienced trauma as a result of having to practise disaster medicine.
In their concluding remarks, the signatories - who include professors and research specialists in the virus from across the world, including Oxford and Harvard - take aim at the Government's public health response by contrasting it with Japan, Vietnam and New Zealand.
"(They) have shown that robust public health responses can control transmission, allowing life to return to near-normal, and there are many such success stories."
The letter came as West Midlands mayor Andy Street warned restrictions imposed on his region of 2.8 million people would devastate businesses and cause an “avoidable domino-effect across local economies” because they came without financial support.
In a letter to the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, he demanded a targeted job support scheme, funding for local government to facilitate grants and extended tax relief for hospitality firms in his area.
(Image: University of Birmingham)
He echoes a similar appeal made by a union of Birmingham politicians, businesses, trades unions and others, who are also pressing the chancellor to do more to protect the fragile hospitality sector.
This need for economic measures to support restrictions is also a theme in the Lancet letter.
The scientists said: "Effective measures that suppress and control transmission need to be implemented widely, and they must be supported by financial and social programmes that encourage community responses and address the inequities that have been amplified by the pandemic.
"Continuing restrictions will probably be required in the short term, to reduce transmission and fix ineffective pandemic response systems, in order to prevent future lockdowns."
And they say the purpose of restrictions is to "effectively suppress SARS-CoV-2 infections to low levels that allow rapid detection of localised outbreaks and rapid response through efficient and comprehensive find, test, trace, isolate, and support systems so life can return to near-normal without the need for generalised restrictions."
"Protecting our economies is inextricably tied to controlling COVID-19. We must protect our workforce and avoid long-term uncertainty."
They end: "We cannot afford distractions that undermine an effective response; it is essential that we act urgently based on the evidence."
Prof McNally has set up and leads a new swab analysis lab, based at the University of Birmingham’s Medical School, that will eventually process over 3,000 tests a day, with capacity increasing over winter.
He has impeccable credentials in this field - he was Infectious Disease Lead at the government’s first flagship Lighthouse Lab in Milton Keynes.
The joint letter comes as pressure mounts on the Government to do more as infection rates rocket across the country.
Birmingham's infection rate is now edging towards 200 - most recent data puts it at 180 per 100,000 cases.
It is currently rated 'high risk' and ranked in the second tier of the Government's new three tier warning system.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to announce new restrictions in some hotspot areas later today.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--West Brom conclude Karlan Grant saga with striker transfer

West Brom have , finally , secured the signature of striker Karlan Grant after Albion and Championship outfit Huddersfield Town agreed a deal .
In what has been a long summer where talks have been ongoing between all parties , the Baggies have managed to negotiate the a deal that involves them paying a significant portion of the overall fee up front , with the remainder being paid in instalments staggered over the coming years .
The overall transfer is expected to cost Albion in excess of £15m .
Grant , 23 , has signed a six-year contract at The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Matheus Pereira and Callum Robinson in agreeing long-term stays at the club .
His arrival means that , against a restricted budget , they ’ ve completed nine signings which incorporates the four loanees from last year returning - three of those have been snapped up on permanent deals .
Slaven Bilic has been an admirer of Grant for quite some time ; the club ’ s interest in the then Terriers forward arose last January , as Albion sought extra firepower to get themselves over the promotion line .
Though the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in that window , the interest in the 19-goal forward remained .
The deal has required patience , on all fronts , not least of all Grant himself who hasn ’ t kicked a competitive ball this season while the protracted move has rumbled on in the background .
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Google Play Store and App Store The player is through the door now , though , ahead of the domestic transfer deadline at 5pm on Friday evening .
While Hal Robson-Kanu is absent because of the broken arm he suffered at Southampton , and Callum Robinson is being forced to self-isolate because of a positive Covid-19 test in the Ireland camp over the international break , Grant could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit of Burnley to The Hawthorns on Monday evening , despite his lack of match sharpness .
While he ’ s not been playing , Grant has remained in full training this pre-season , similarly to Filip Krovinovic at Benfica prior to his return to Albion .
“ We have followed Karlan ’ s progression for a long time and he has been a target of ours since well before the summer transfer window opened , '' Albion technical director Luke Dowling said .
“ We are confident we have signed a young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the challenges of the Premier League .
He has scored goals throughout his career including the few months he had with Huddersfield at this level two years ago .
“ During this window we have largely focussed on bringing in talented , young players , who have all committed to the club with lengthy contracts , and Karlan is one we are particularly delighted to have here for the foreseeable future .
”

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West Brom have, finally, secured the signature of striker Karlan Grant after Albion and Championship outfit Huddersfield Town agreed a deal.
In what has been a long summer where talks have been ongoing between all parties, the Baggies have managed to negotiate the a deal that involves them paying a significant portion of the overall fee up front, with the remainder being paid in instalments staggered over the coming years.
The overall transfer is expected to cost Albion in excess of £15m.
Grant, 23, has signed a six-year contract at The Hawthorns and joins new teammates Grady Diangana, Matheus Pereira and Callum Robinson in agreeing long-term stays at the club.
His arrival means that, against a restricted budget, they’ve completed nine signings which incorporates the four loanees from last year returning - three of those have been snapped up on permanent deals.
Slaven Bilic has been an admirer of Grant for quite some time; the club’s interest in the then Terriers forward arose last January, as Albion sought extra firepower to get themselves over the promotion line.
Though the move didn’t come to fruition in that window, the interest in the 19-goal forward remained. The deal has required patience, on all fronts, not least of all Grant himself who hasn’t kicked a competitive ball this season while the protracted move has rumbled on in the background.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
The player is through the door now, though, ahead of the domestic transfer deadline at 5pm on Friday evening.
While Hal Robson-Kanu is absent because of the broken arm he suffered at Southampton, and Callum Robinson is being forced to self-isolate because of a positive Covid-19 test in the Ireland camp over the international break, Grant could be handed an immediate debut for the visit of Burnley to The Hawthorns on Monday evening, despite his lack of match sharpness.
While he’s not been playing, Grant has remained in full training this pre-season, similarly to Filip Krovinovic at Benfica prior to his return to Albion.
“We have followed Karlan’s progression for a long time and he has been a target of ours since well before the summer transfer window opened," Albion technical director Luke Dowling said.
“We are confident we have signed a young player who has proved he is ready for the challenges of the Premier League. He has scored goals throughout his career including the few months he had with Huddersfield at this level two years ago.
“During this window we have largely focussed on bringing in talented, young players, who have all committed to the club with lengthy contracts, and Karlan is one we are particularly delighted to have here for the foreseeable future.”


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Stabbed ambulance paramedic returns to work

A West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic who was stabbed in Wolverhampton has returned to work .
Deena Evans and her @ @ @ @ @ knife injuries during an incident on July 6 .
Three months on , Deena is @ @ @ @ @ In a post on social media , West Midlands Ambulance Service welcomed Deena back and @ @ @ @ @ a familiar face .
`` Today was her first day back on the road since @ @ @ @ @ crew mate Charlie looking after her . ''
Deena suffered a chest wound and nerve @ @ @ @ @ sustained a back injury during the incident .
Michael was discharged from hospital later the @ @ @ @ @ had to spend another two days receiving treatment .
A man was later charged with @ @ @ @ @ with intent to cause grievous bodily harm .

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A West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic who was stabbed in Wolverhampton has returned to work.
Deena Evans and her colleague Michael Hipgrave both sustained knife injuries during an incident on July 6.
Three months on, Deena is now back at work.
In a post on social media, West Midlands Ambulance Service welcomed Deena back and said: "We spy a familiar face.
"Today was her first day back on the road since the incident, she had crew mate Charlie looking after her."
Deena suffered a chest wound and nerve damage and fellow medic Michael sustained a back injury during the incident.
Michael was discharged from hospital later the same evening, while Deena had to spend another two days receiving treatment.
A man was later charged with two counts of wounding, with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Aston Villa fans react as Frederic Guilbert linked with AFC Bournemouth move

Aston Villa fans have been discussing speculation linking defender Frederic Guilbert with a move to Championship side AFC Bournemouth .
Website Football Insider is reporting that Bournemouth are keen on taking the Frenchman on loan before Friday 's 5pm deadline for deals between Premier League and English Football League ( EFL ) clubs .
Guilbert , a fan favourite at Villa Park , is likely to see his chances of first-team action under Dean Smith reduced this season following the arrival of Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest for £14 million .
earlier this summer .
Indeed , Cash has started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games so far this campaign with Guilbert yet to make a matchday squad .
His only action this season has come in the Carabao Cup and Villa are out of the competition after being beaten by Stoke City .
Guilbert was linked with a return to France this summer and he revealed last week how a move to Nantes fell through .
Bournemouth striker Josh King continues to be linked with Villa , while he is also said to be attracting interest from Premier League rivals Everton , West Bromwich Albion and West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some Villa fans think a swap deal could be in the offing with Guilbert heading one way and King the other .
`` Swap deal , you love to see it . ''
`` Guilbert in a swap deal and cash for King ? ''
a third fan asked while another said similar : `` Freddy part of a King deal ? ''
`` Would make perfect sense would n't it , '' a fifth fan said .

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Aston Villa fans have been discussing speculation linking defender Frederic Guilbert with a move to Championship side AFC Bournemouth.
Website Football Insider is reporting that Bournemouth are keen on taking the Frenchman on loan before Friday's 5pm deadline for deals between Premier League and English Football League (EFL) clubs.
Guilbert, a fan favourite at Villa Park, is likely to see his chances of first-team action under Dean Smith reduced this season following the arrival of Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest for £14 million. earlier this summer.
Indeed, Cash has started all three of Villa 's Premier League games so far this campaign with Guilbert yet to make a matchday squad.
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His only action this season has come in the Carabao Cup and Villa are out of the competition after being beaten by Stoke City.
Guilbert was linked with a return to France this summer and he revealed last week how a move to Nantes fell through.
Bournemouth striker Josh King continues to be linked with Villa, while he is also said to be attracting interest from Premier League rivals Everton, West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United.
And that's why some Villa fans think a swap deal could be in the offing with Guilbert heading one way and King the other.
"Swap deal?" one asked.
"Swap deal, you love to see it."
"Guilbert in a swap deal and cash for King?" a third fan asked while another said similar: "Freddy part of a King deal?"
"Would make perfect sense wouldn't it," a fifth fan said.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Man appears in court over hoax bomb threat

A Walsall man has appeared in court accused of making a hoax bomb threat .
Nathan Preece allegedly dialled 999 @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , October 14 , from Walsall High Street claiming to be in possession of @ @ @ @ @ of no fixed address , was arrested on the corner of High Street and Field @ @ @ @ @ was later charged with making a bomb hoax and knife possession .
Preece appeared in @ @ @ @ @ Thursday , October 15 , and was remanded into custody until his next court date @ @ @ @

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A Walsall man has appeared in court accused of making a hoax bomb threat.
Nathan Preece allegedly dialled 999 in the early hours of Wednesday, October 14, from Walsall High Street claiming to be in possession of explosives.
The 23-year-old, of no fixed address, was arrested on the corner of High Street and Field Road, Bloxwich.
He was later charged with making a bomb hoax and knife possession.
Preece appeared in court via video link on Thursday, October 15, and was remanded into custody until his next court date on November 3.


birminghammail--2020-10-15--Massive cannabis factory worth £160k raided

A huge cannabis factory worth more than £160,000 has been raided in Wolverhampton .
Cops discovered an illicit crop made @ @ @ @ @ Pictures from the bust revealed hundreds of plants packed into the property .
In a @ @ @ @ @ the force said : `` CANNABIS FACTORY - The Team have executed a drugs warrant @ @ @ @ @ have recovered 327 plants so over £160k of drugs . ''
Cops say criminals are @ @ @ @ @ conceal cannabis grows – not just in rooms , but in the back of shops @ @ @ @ @ farms can pose a serious risk of fire .
Often the electricity meter has been @ @ @ @ @ circuits run close to water-filled pipes .
Plants grown upstairs in a building can also @ @ @ @ @ presenting the danger of collapse .

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A huge cannabis factory worth more than £160,000 has been raided in Wolverhampton.
Officers successfully executed drugs warrant in Powell Street.
Cops discovered an illicit crop made up of 327 plants.
Pictures from the bust revealed hundreds of plants packed into the property.
In a post on social media, the force said: "CANNABIS FACTORY - The Team have executed a drugs warrant in Powell Street. We have recovered 327 plants so over £160k of drugs."
Cops say criminals are using more inventive ways to conceal cannabis grows – not just in rooms, but in the back of shops and even underground.
Cannabis farms can pose a serious risk of fire. Often the electricity meter has been bypassed and seriously overloaded electrical circuits run close to water-filled pipes.
Plants grown upstairs in a building can also cause floorboards to rot, presenting the danger of collapse.