birminghammail--2020-04-20--Villa must write off another £12m to complete shock transfer deal

Aston Villa ’ s reported interest in Pierluigi Gollini has come as a shock to most .
The goalkeeper spent six months at Villa earlier in his career before returning to Italy with current club Atalanta .
After spending 18 months on loan with the Serie A side Gollini agreed a permanent transfer in 2018 for just under £4million .
He ’ s gone from strength to strength with Atalanta and has impressed in their assault on the Champions League this season .
Gollini ’ s form has attracted plenty of attention with AC MIlan , Tottenham Hotspur and Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our sister title The Mirror claims Spurs have no interest in signing the goalkeeper this summer .
Villa , meanwhile , already have three senior goalkeepers on their books - and that ’ s not including loanee Pepe Reina .
The deal will make little sense to Villans , especially with Gollini - who made his Italy debut last year - reportedly valued at £16million by Atalanta .
That ’ s according to TMW , while transfermarkt values Gollini at £11.7million .
If Villa are tempted to pursue a deal for Gollini , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be forced to pay a pretty penny for a player Steve Bruce sold on the cheap two years ago .

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Aston Villa’s reported interest in Pierluigi Gollini has come as a shock to most.
The goalkeeper spent six months at Villa earlier in his career before returning to Italy with current club Atalanta.
After spending 18 months on loan with the Serie A side Gollini agreed a permanent transfer in 2018 for just under £4million.
He’s gone from strength to strength with Atalanta and has impressed in their assault on the Champions League this season.
Gollini’s form has attracted plenty of attention with AC MIlan, Tottenham Hotspur and Villa all reportedly among his admirers, though our sister title The Mirror claims Spurs have no interest in signing the goalkeeper this summer.
Villa, meanwhile, already have three senior goalkeepers on their books - and that’s not including loanee Pepe Reina.
The deal will make little sense to Villans, especially with Gollini - who made his Italy debut last year - reportedly valued at £16million by Atalanta.
That’s according to TMW, while transfermarkt values Gollini at £11.7million.
If Villa are tempted to pursue a deal for Gollini, the likelihood is that they’ll be forced to pay a pretty penny for a player Steve Bruce sold on the cheap two years ago.


birminghammail--2020-04-20--New BBC series Life and Birth filmed in Birmingham and why you will love it

It 's the TV series that will see babies born at three city hospitals become the stars of the show on their first day of their lives .
Life and Birth was shot before the coronavirus pandemic became so all-consuming .
But the month-long effects of the lockdown will turn the extraordinary footage captured for the new BBC1 childbirth series into a pressure valve release that could leave many viewers in floods of tears .
Especially now that we 're all going to be viewing the programmes through the prism of a pandemic .
For weeks we 've been saturated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death - with NHS staff often being fatally struck down at random as well as the public at large .
Now comes a chance to take a break from all of that with 60 minutes of life-affirming labour ward dramas that will have viewers gasping for breath in a different way .
Moving on from the much-loved series Ambulance , it 's a reminder that every single birth and start to life is different , even for women who have had one baby or more before .
Add a pandemic on top , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watching this if they are just embarking on their own personal pregnancy journey at this most precipitous moment in all of our lives So be warned .
You might need a giant box of hankies to get through an hour in the life of NHS nurses and medics battling to introduce healthy new lives to proud parents .
Life and Birth begins at 8pm on BBC1 on Tuesday , April 21 , 2020 and seeks to preserve the new mothers ' modesty at all times .
The first of six programmes starts with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hospital next to the giant QE .
We learn that in a typical week , there are 351 births across here , Heartlands and Sutton Coldfield 's Good Hope Hospital and soon we are seeing text messages floating around in the air above the hospital .
Intentionally or otherwise , the first thing you notice inside the hospital is the glaringly obvious importance of PPE - the acronym of the year that 's short for Personal Protective Equipment .
Masks , gowns and gloves ... how could any of these nurses and medics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we see these items in close up , our minds , momentarily , are drawn back to the present as we find ourselves asking one simple question .
Imagine trying to do this job in the midst of a pandemic - and if there 's a global shortage of PPE , what then ?
Imagine being the women who are pregnant and watching this , too , steeling themselves ready to give birth in the weeks ahead .
As well as having to reassure each woman on her personal path to the moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and nurses are seen here contending with a string of unusual situations , too .
All complicating factors requiring a vast skillset , from medical knowledge and hands-on expertise to empathy and a calm reassuring presence when an emergency beckons .
From working as a DJ in Serbia to being back at home with mum Barbara , 33-year-old Channelle is determined to have as natural a birth as possible .
`` My birth plan is to get through it alive ! ''
she says .
Channelle even has the sounds of the jungle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` This is a journey I need to do for myself , '' Channelle explains .
`` The circumstances are not ideal ...
I 'd known the father for a number of years , but it didn ’ t work out .
`` I told my mum ( I was pregnant ) in a car park in the middle of West Brom before we went to buy fruit and veg for my grandparents .
`` She was shaking and I was thinking ‘ I ’ ve broken my mum !
’ .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She ’ s like my comfort blanket at the moment . ''
Midwife Sharon Groves says they even welcome mums who want to listen to heavy metal music if they think that will get them through childbirth .
`` Sounds of the jungle might be the first , '' she smiles .
Ashleigh , 22 , and her partner Luke are expecting their second child together .
`` A lot of people do try to make out like pregnancy is full of rainbows and magic .
And it ’ s really not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not this big bubble of glitter and magic that everybody makes out .
But you are over the moon when you are handed that baby at the end .
That ’ s the part that makes everything worth it . ''
Their first child , Roman Rae , was kept in neonatal intensive care after being stuck for an hour in mid-birth led to a struggle for breath and sepsis .
Ashleigh says of Luke : `` Hopefully ( cutting the ) cord wo n't splatter on him like Roman 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another scare ...
Mother of two Jodie first discovered there were complications with her pregnancy at her 20-week scan .
Consultant Cardiologist Anna Seale eventually confirms that her baby 's narrowing of the aortic arch will necessitate surgery .
But a premature birth also means that Jodie 's baby must double in size in order to have the operation .
Her story illustrates the pressure faced by partners .
Husband Dave says : `` This is as helpless as I ’ ve ever felt as a father .
Your lives are in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` You just have to wait … and it 's excruciating . ''
Jenna has been on the antenatal ward for almost two weeks .
Her unborn daughter has a rare heart condition called atrial flutter that ’ s causing her heart to beat 443 times per minute .
The video scan makes the baby 's heart look like wobbly jelly .
Jenna says : `` I ’ m the only one in here that ’ s trying to keep my baby in .
Everyone else is trying to get them out !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , summed up perfectly when midwife Sozan Nazir says : `` You have fear , love , excitement , doubt… everything together . ''
As a father myself , I 've had three wildly different experiences in maternity suites and the best thing I can say about this opener is that by the time it had finished it felt like I 'd revisited every new arrival of my own .
Now where did I put all that equipment you need ?
The test now will be whether we 've all got the ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the middle of a pandemic .
But as an alternative to news about illness and death , the series will be a winner every time in our house .
'Life and Birth ' was filmed with multiple camera crews working across all three sites .
The footage mixes prime lens documentary filming techniques with fixed rig cameras to capture every developing drama .
You feel as if you are right there with the pregnant ladies and medics , while they never once notice or act as if the cameras are there during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moments of their lives .
‘ Life and Birth ’ meets parents at every stage of their pregnancy showing maternity care in a way that it has not been seen before .
From intricate lifesaving surgical procedures on babies in the womb , to specialist care for women who have had multiple miscarriages , to births which go as planned , Life and Birth captures the incredible work of NHS midwives , doctors and surgeons , who are dedicated to supporting families as they bring new life into the world .
We now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing - in the two-metre sense of the coronavirus pandemic sense of the term - would still be physically impossible in birthing suites today without extra PPE .
Richard Bond , the creative director at the series ' production company Dragonfly : adds : “ Building on the signature techniques developed on our hit series Ambulance and Surgeons , we ’ ve combined cinematic prime lenses with the intimacy of the rig , and an innovative layer of social media to create a new BBC One brand with an incredibly diverse cast and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Warm , funny and truthful , often nail-bitingly tense , and always deeply emotional , this is 360 storytelling at its best .
”

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It's the TV series that will see babies born at three city hospitals become the stars of the show on their first day of their lives.
Life and Birth was shot before the coronavirus pandemic became so all-consuming.
But the month-long effects of the lockdown will turn the extraordinary footage captured for the new BBC1 childbirth series into a pressure valve release that could leave many viewers in floods of tears.
Especially now that we're all going to be viewing the programmes through the prism of a pandemic.
For weeks we've been saturated with stories of crises, illness and death - with NHS staff often being fatally struck down at random as well as the public at large.
Now comes a chance to take a break from all of that with 60 minutes of life-affirming labour ward dramas that will have viewers gasping for breath in a different way.
(Image: BBC / Dragonfly / Ryan McNamara)
Moving on from the much-loved series Ambulance, it's a reminder that every single birth and start to life is different, even for women who have had one baby or more before.
Add a pandemic on top, and your heart goes out to everyone watching this if they are just embarking on their own personal pregnancy journey at this most precipitous moment in all of our lives
So be warned. You might need a giant box of hankies to get through an hour in the life of NHS nurses and medics battling to introduce healthy new lives to proud parents.
Life and Birth begins at 8pm on BBC1 on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 and seeks to preserve the new mothers' modesty at all times.
The beginning
The first of six programmes starts with an aerial shot of Birmingham Women's Hospital next to the giant QE.
We learn that in a typical week, there are 351 births across here, Heartlands and Sutton Coldfield's Good Hope Hospital and soon we are seeing text messages floating around in the air above the hospital.
Intentionally or otherwise, the first thing you notice inside the hospital is the glaringly obvious importance of PPE - the acronym of the year that's short for Personal Protective Equipment.
Masks, gowns and gloves... how could any of these nurses and medics do their jobs safely without?
As we see these items in close up, our minds, momentarily, are drawn back to the present as we find ourselves asking one simple question.
Imagine trying to do this job in the midst of a pandemic - and if there's a global shortage of PPE, what then?
Imagine being the women who are pregnant and watching this, too, steeling themselves ready to give birth in the weeks ahead.
As well as having to reassure each woman on her personal path to the moment they will give birth, the doctors and nurses are seen here contending with a string of unusual situations, too.
All complicating factors requiring a vast skillset, from medical knowledge and hands-on expertise to empathy and a calm reassuring presence when an emergency beckons.
(Image: BBC / Dragonfly / Ryan McNamara)
The single mum
From working as a DJ in Serbia to being back at home with mum Barbara, 33-year-old Channelle is determined to have as natural a birth as possible.
"My birth plan is to get through it alive!" she says.
Channelle even has the sounds of the jungle playing by her bedside but is overdue.
"This is a journey I need to do for myself," Channelle explains.
"The circumstances are not ideal... I'd known the father for a number of years, but it didn’t work out.
"I told my mum (I was pregnant) in a car park in the middle of West Brom before we went to buy fruit and veg for my grandparents.
"She was shaking and I was thinking ‘I’ve broken my mum!’.
"My mum moved into my bed. She’s like my comfort blanket at the moment."
Midwife Sharon Groves says they even welcome mums who want to listen to heavy metal music if they think that will get them through childbirth.
"Sounds of the jungle might be the first," she smiles.
(Image: BBC / Dragonfly / Ryan McNamara)
The childhood sweethearts
Ashleigh, 22, and her partner Luke are expecting their second child together.
"A lot of people do try to make out like pregnancy is full of rainbows and magic. And it’s really not," says Ashleigh.
"It’s not this big bubble of glitter and magic that everybody makes out. But you are over the moon when you are handed that baby at the end. That’s the part that makes everything worth it."
Their first child, Roman Rae, was kept in neonatal intensive care after being stuck for an hour in mid-birth led to a struggle for breath and sepsis.
Ashleigh says of Luke: "Hopefully (cutting the) cord won't splatter on him like Roman's did."
But then they experience another scare...
(Image: BBC / Dragonfly / Ryan McNamara)
Mother of two
Mother of two Jodie first discovered there were complications with her pregnancy at her 20-week scan.
Consultant Cardiologist Anna Seale eventually confirms that her baby's narrowing of the aortic arch will necessitate surgery.
But a premature birth also means that Jodie's baby must double in size in order to have the operation.
Her story illustrates the pressure faced by partners.
Husband Dave says: "This is as helpless as I’ve ever felt as a father. Your lives are in the doctors' and nurses' hands.
"You just have to wait … and it's excruciating."
(Image: BBC / Dragonfly / Ryan McNamara)
Hospitalised for two weeks
Jenna has been on the antenatal ward for almost two weeks.
Her unborn daughter has a rare heart condition called atrial flutter that’s causing her heart to beat 443 times per minute.
The video scan makes the baby's heart look like wobbly jelly.
Jenna says: "I’m the only one in here that’s trying to keep my baby in. Everyone else is trying to get them out!"
(Image: BBC / Dragonfly / Ryan McNamara)
Verdict
The first programme is beyond intense, summed up perfectly when midwife Sozan Nazir says: "You have fear, love, excitement, doubt… everything together."
As a father myself, I've had three wildly different experiences in maternity suites and the best thing I can say about this opener is that by the time it had finished it felt like I'd revisited every new arrival of my own.
Now where did I put all that equipment you need?
The test now will be whether we've all got the ability to soak up another five touch-and-go episodes in the middle of a pandemic.
But as an alternative to news about illness and death, the series will be a winner every time in our house.
(Image: BBC / Dragonfly / Ryan McNamara)
The series
'Life and Birth' was filmed with multiple camera crews working across all three sites.
The footage mixes prime lens documentary filming techniques with fixed rig cameras to capture every developing drama.
You feel as if you are right there with the pregnant ladies and medics, while they never once notice or act as if the cameras are there during some of the most intimate, character-testing moments of their lives.
‘Life and Birth’ meets parents at every stage of their pregnancy showing maternity care in a way that it has not been seen before.
From intricate lifesaving surgical procedures on babies in the womb, to specialist care for women who have had multiple miscarriages, to births which go as planned, Life and Birth captures the incredible work of NHS midwives, doctors and surgeons, who are dedicated to supporting families as they bring new life into the world.
We now watch this with the knowledge that social distancing - in the two-metre sense of the coronavirus pandemic sense of the term - would still be physically impossible in birthing suites today without extra PPE.
Richard Bond, the creative director at the series' production company Dragonfly: adds: “Building on the signature techniques developed on our hit series Ambulance and Surgeons, we’ve combined cinematic prime lenses with the intimacy of the rig, and an innovative layer of social media to create a new BBC One brand with an incredibly diverse cast and - we hope - universal appeal.
"Warm, funny and truthful, often nail-bitingly tense, and always deeply emotional, this is 360 storytelling at its best.”


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Aston Villa flop Danny Drinkwater shows off incredible new back tattoo

Aston Villa flop Danny Drinkwater has shown off his incredible new back tattoo on social media .
The centerpiece is a lion , while the artwork also features skulls , doves and an eye .
He has said there will be important dates and times added to the feature .
Drinkwater , who signed on loan from Chelsea in January , revealed the new piece on Instagram today .
The tattoo was done by Matias Noble , a famous tattoo artist .
Drinkwater was signed by Villa head coach Dean Smith to negate the loss of John McGinn to an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the title winner with Leicester City has endured a tough time at Villa Park .
He has only played 184 minutes of competitive football since his debut , a 6-1 reverse at home to Manchester City and he was n't in the squad for the Carabao Cup final defeat to the same opposition in March .
Last month he was involved in a training ground incident with team-mate Jota and it was revealed earlier this month that his restaurant in Manchester has racked up debts of nearly £2 million in just a year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa team-mate Bjorn Engels , who commented a couple of emojis on his Instagram post .
Chelsea team-mates Billy Gilmour and Davide Zappacosta also showed their appreciation .
`` The skulls represent the dark times , the lion is the strength , the doves our the peace and the eye is for protection , '' Drinkwater wrote .
`` Rose is family and the scrolls are for important dates/times ( to be done ) .
Life in a tattoo !
My back .
My skin .

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Aston Villa flop Danny Drinkwater has shown off his incredible new back tattoo on social media.
The centerpiece is a lion, while the artwork also features skulls, doves and an eye.
He has said there will be important dates and times added to the feature.
Drinkwater, who signed on loan from Chelsea in January, revealed the new piece on Instagram today.
The tattoo was done by Matias Noble, a famous tattoo artist.
Drinkwater was signed by Villa head coach Dean Smith to negate the loss of John McGinn to an ankle injury in December.
However, the title winner with Leicester City has endured a tough time at Villa Park.
He has only played 184 minutes of competitive football since his debut, a 6-1 reverse at home to Manchester City and he wasn't in the squad for the Carabao Cup final defeat to the same opposition in March.
Last month he was involved in a training ground incident with team-mate Jota and it was revealed earlier this month that his restaurant in Manchester has racked up debts of nearly £2 million in just a year.
Hit tattoo went down well with Villa team-mate Bjorn Engels, who commented a couple of emojis on his Instagram post.
Chelsea team-mates Billy Gilmour and Davide Zappacosta also showed their appreciation.
"The skulls represent the dark times, the lion is the strength, the doves our the peace and the eye is for protection," Drinkwater wrote. "Rose is family and the scrolls are for important dates/times (to be done). Life in a tattoo! My back. My skin.


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Wolves fans have their say on bold Man City transfer comments

Wolverhampton Wanderers fans have been having their say after Ilkay Gundogan claimed he could imagine Raul Jimenez joining Manchester City .
Jimenez was part of the Wolves side that beat City twice this season , with the Mexican netting in the win at Molineux .
The Mexican has been one of the most prolific strikers in Europe , with a staggering 32 goals involvements in just 44 games .
And Gundogan has likened the Wolves striker with Robert Lewnadowski and suggested he could thrive at any of the 'top six ' clubs .
`` I think he has everything a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ESPN .
`` For a striker he is so mobile , but also physically so good and talented technically on the ball .
I can imagine him playing with us .
`` Maybe [ he 's ] not on that level yet , but he reminds me a little bit of [ Robert ] Lewandowski because I 've played with him .
`` In terms of style I think there is still a lot of potential .
`` It 's so difficult to predict but I think [ Jimenez ] would get a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there 's a good possibility he could do well . ''
Here 's how Wolves fans on social media reacted to Gundogan 's bold transfer claim : @ ChrisHughes36 : Why would he play for a club that can ’ t get in the champs league ?
Dream on @ SouthBankMatt : Apparently he hates Oasis though , you wouldn ’ t want him .
@ Howler94636460 : Only because we beat you twice this season @ WWFCpage : Didn ’ t ask don ’ t care and he ’ s not gon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Give us jesus and sane and we 'll think about it

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Wolverhampton Wanderers fans have been having their say after Ilkay Gundogan claimed he could imagine Raul Jimenez joining Manchester City.
Jimenez was part of the Wolves side that beat City twice this season, with the Mexican netting in the win at Molineux.
The Mexican has been one of the most prolific strikers in Europe, with a staggering 32 goals involvements in just 44 games.
And Gundogan has likened the Wolves striker with Robert Lewnadowski and suggested he could thrive at any of the 'top six' clubs.
"I think he has everything a world-class striker needs," Gundogan told ESPN .
"For a striker he is so mobile, but also physically so good and talented technically on the ball. I can imagine him playing with us.
"Maybe [he's] not on that level yet, but he reminds me a little bit of [Robert] Lewandowski because I've played with him.
"In terms of style I think there is still a lot of potential.
"It's so difficult to predict but I think [Jimenez] would get a chance in every single top-six team and there's a good possibility he could do well."
Here's how Wolves fans on social media reacted to Gundogan's bold transfer claim:
@ChrisHughes36: Why would he play for a club that can’t get in the champs league? Dream on
@SouthBankMatt: Apparently he hates Oasis though, you wouldn’t want him.
@troutbeckwolf: Go away
@georgeharper: Doesn't play in front of empty seats soz
@supermunn: I don't think so
@Howler94636460: Only because we beat you twice this season
@andywils62: Keep imagining
@WWFCpage: Didn’t ask don’t care and he’s not gonna take a step backwards
@DannyPowers82: Give us jesus and sane and we'll think about it


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Jack Grealish transfer latest - all you need to know

Jack Grealish has been not just one of Aston Villa ’ s star men in the 2019/20 season , but one of the Premier League ’ s top performers with seven goals , six assists and more dribbles and key passes than all but a handful of players .
When combined with Villa 's lowly position , this makes for inevitable talk of the midfielder being coaxed away from his boyhood club .
Villa have fought off interest in the past , and were rewarded when Grealish helped them win promotion last season .
The transfer talk hasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feels like it ’ s got louder .
Here ’ s a recap of how things have played out so far .
Tottenham were anticipated to revive their interest over the summer , with the deal among bookmakers ’ most likely moves had Villa not beaten Derby in the play-off final .
However , win they did , and Grealish stuck around through the summer and was still at Villa Park in August .
Tottenham midfielder Harry Winks described his former England under-21 colleague as someone Spurs needed to be “ wary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Premier League ’ s opening weekend .
Grealish was lively in that game but Christian Eriksen - the man he had been slated to replace in north London - came off the bench to help Spurs take all three points .
Strong start to the season brings more talk Grealish reached five league goals for the season before Christmas , prompting discussions over his future to begin again around the turn of the year .
By this point , Spurs had parted ways with manager Mauricio Pochettino but their interest hadn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were also reportedly in the mix .
Former Villa boss Tim Sherwood , under whom Grealish scored his first Premier League goal in 2015 , claimed United could do a lot worse than pay big money for a player who he believed could get into any top-flight team .
However , Villa transfer chief Christian Purslow revealed “ we 're a club these days that does n't have to worry about selling our assets to survive ” .
And , sure enough , Grealish stayed , with the Daily Record reporting that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa ’ s resolve .
Grealish revealed his future could have been very different without last season ’ s play-off win , saying “ If we didn ’ t win that game I knew it would have been my last game for Villa ” .
His impressive form in an advanced role this season has ensure the rumours have persisted , though , and Spurs haven ’ t gone away despite their managerial change .
Fans of other clubs have also been impressed , with Arsenal , Chelsea and Manchester City supporters letting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Man Utd remain in the race according to reports .
An £80m fee has been mentioned in connection with United , though , while the Manchester club ’ s manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer worried some Villa fans when discussing what the transfer market might look like after the Coronavirus pandemic , saying : “ There might be just a situation there where you can exploit , and I know that we at Man United we are one of the biggest , and the biggest , financially well-off.
” As for Spurs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elsewhere in the London club ’ s squad , according to football.london ’ s Alasdair Gold .
“ Even if Aston Villa do get relegated I ca n't see Tottenham spending big money on anyone this summer in the current climate - particularly in that position - unless they offload someone for big money , ” Gold said .
What Dean Smith has said It ’ s no secret that Smith , who has trusted Grealish with the captain ’ s armband , holds the lifelong Villa fan in high esteem .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for many teams and you can see why , ” Smith said in January , as the transfer window opened and the talk began again .
`` He 's a top player but as I 've said before , our owners are very ambitious and want to establish us as a top Premier League club .
`` To do that you have to keep your best players , so we 'll be keeping hold of Jack Grealish.
” Ahead of Villa ’ s meeting with Tottenham in February , Smith spoke about Dele @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grealish had similar .
“ He has carried the responsibility of being captain and an Aston Villa fan forward , ” the manager said .
`` He looks one hell of a player to everyone right now . ''

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Jack Grealish has been not just one of Aston Villa’s star men in the 2019/20 season, but one of the Premier League’s top performers with seven goals, six assists and more dribbles and key passes than all but a handful of players.
When combined with Villa's lowly position, this makes for inevitable talk of the midfielder being coaxed away from his boyhood club.
Villa have fought off interest in the past, and were rewarded when Grealish helped them win promotion last season.
The transfer talk hasn’t ended, though - indeed, it feels like it’s got louder.
Here’s a recap of how things have played out so far.
Spurs summer link
Tottenham were anticipated to revive their interest over the summer, with the deal among bookmakers’ most likely moves had Villa not beaten Derby in the play-off final.
However, win they did, and Grealish stuck around through the summer and was still at Villa Park in August.
Tottenham midfielder Harry Winks described his former England under-21 colleague as someone Spurs needed to be “wary of” ahead of the two clubs meeting on the Premier League’s opening weekend.
Grealish was lively in that game but Christian Eriksen - the man he had been slated to replace in north London - came off the bench to help Spurs take all three points.
Strong start to the season brings more talk
Grealish reached five league goals for the season before Christmas, prompting discussions over his future to begin again around the turn of the year.
By this point, Spurs had parted ways with manager Mauricio Pochettino but their interest hadn’t disappeared, while Manchester United were also reportedly in the mix.
Former Villa boss Tim Sherwood, under whom Grealish scored his first Premier League goal in 2015, claimed United could do a lot worse than pay big money for a player who he believed could get into any top-flight team.
However, Villa transfer chief Christian Purslow revealed “we're a club these days that doesn't have to worry about selling our assets to survive”. And, sure enough, Grealish stayed, with the Daily Record reporting that the Red Devils tried and failed to test Villa’s resolve.
Spurs gossip returns
Grealish revealed his future could have been very different without last season’s play-off win, saying “If we didn’t win that game I knew it would have been my last game for Villa”.
His impressive form in an advanced role this season has ensure the rumours have persisted, though, and Spurs haven’t gone away despite their managerial change.
Fans of other clubs have also been impressed, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City supporters letting their voices be heard, but Spurs and Man Utd remain in the race according to reports.
An £80m fee has been mentioned in connection with United, though, while the Manchester club’s manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer worried some Villa fans when discussing what the transfer market might look like after the Coronavirus pandemic, saying: “There might be just a situation there where you can exploit, and I know that we at Man United we are one of the biggest, and the biggest, financially well-off.”
As for Spurs, things may well depend on what happens elsewhere in the London club’s squad, according to football.london’s Alasdair Gold.
“Even if Aston Villa do get relegated I can't see Tottenham spending big money on anyone this summer in the current climate - particularly in that position - unless they offload someone for big money,” Gold said.
What Dean Smith has said
It’s no secret that Smith, who has trusted Grealish with the captain’s armband, holds the lifelong Villa fan in high esteem.
“I think he's a big target for many teams and you can see why,” Smith said in January, as the transfer window opened and the talk began again.
"He's a top player but as I've said before, our owners are very ambitious and want to establish us as a top Premier League club.
"To do that you have to keep your best players, so we'll be keeping hold of Jack Grealish.”
Ahead of Villa’s meeting with Tottenham in February, Smith spoke about Dele Alli’s star quality and suggested Grealish had similar.
“He has carried the responsibility of being captain and an Aston Villa fan forward,” the manager said.
"He looks one hell of a player to everyone right now."


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Parking charges set to be suspended as visitor numbers plummet

Parking charges in three key shopping areas are set to be scrapped by Solihull road chiefs in response to the current lockdown .
Plans to temporarily suspend the fees at the council-run car parks and on-street facilities in Shirley , Knowle and Solihull town centre will be considered this week .
The council has said that there has been a 90 per cent reduction in the number of motorists using the sites since the government imposed dramatic restrictions on people 's movements on March 23 .
While charges would normally expect to raise £200,000 a month at this time of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only expected to cost around £10,000 a month .
The move comes after many other local authorities agreed similar measures and will avoid motorists having to touch key pads and bolster those retailers who are still open .
A report , to be presented to Cllr Ken Hawkins , cabinet member for environment and highways , suggested plans to reintroduce the policy could be considered in May .
Highways officer Paul Tovey said : `` The majority of those people still using these facilities are either key workers who can ’ t work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential food and medical supplies .
`` Many of these key workers already have access to free parking through the government ’ s emergency measures . ''
He went on : `` Making the pay and display car parks free would also remove the need for customers to come into contact with the pay machine and avoid queuing in close proximity to other customers . ''
Birmingham , Sandwell , Wolverhampton and Walsall are among the councils to have already followed this course of action .
Solihull had previously announced that parking restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further notice , but has thus far maintained the charges in the three key retail areas .

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Parking charges in three key shopping areas are set to be scrapped by Solihull road chiefs in response to the current lockdown.
Plans to temporarily suspend the fees at the council-run car parks and on-street facilities in Shirley, Knowle and Solihull town centre will be considered this week.
The council has said that there has been a 90 per cent reduction in the number of motorists using the sites since the government imposed dramatic restrictions on people's movements on March 23.
While charges would normally expect to raise £200,000 a month at this time of year, suspending them at present is only expected to cost around £10,000 a month.
The move comes after many other local authorities agreed similar measures and will avoid motorists having to touch key pads and bolster those retailers who are still open.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
A report, to be presented to Cllr Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for environment and highways, suggested plans to reintroduce the policy could be considered in May.
Highways officer Paul Tovey said: "The majority of those people still using these facilities are either key workers who can’t work from home or local residents shopping for essential food and medical supplies.
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"Many of these key workers already have access to free parking through the
government’s emergency measures."
He went on: "Making the pay and display car parks free would also remove the need for customers to come into contact with the pay machine and avoid queuing in close proximity to other customers."
Birmingham, Sandwell, Wolverhampton and Walsall are among the councils to have already followed this course of action.
Solihull had previously announced that parking restrictions in residential areas were being relaxed until further notice, but has thus far maintained the charges in the three key retail areas.


birminghammail--2020-04-21--£5k payouts for Virgin Media data breach - which left porn users exposed

Thousands of Virgin Media customers in Birmingham could be in line for a £5,000 payout from a data breach - which left porn users exposed to possible blackmail and extortion .
Names , home and email addresses , dates of birth and contact details - as well as links to explicit websites - were available to access for the ten months until February due to an 'incorrectly configured database ' .
While the information did not include financial details or passwords , it left around 900,000 customers vulnerable to scams such as phishing emails , account takeovers and identity theft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is aiming to help people win compensation from Virgin .
It estimates 15,000 people in Birmingham were affected and that payouts could be in the region of £5,000 each .
The law firm said the data , which was accessible between April 2019 and February 28 this year , also included contract details such as requests to block or unblock explicit websites - potentially leaving some open to blackmail and extortion .
Company director Aman Johal said : “ We have formally notified Virgin Media that we are taking action and our claimant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone affected by the breach to make a claim as soon as possible .
“ Virgin Media failed to take the steps required to keep customer data safe and it is vital for the company to understand the severity of this breach .
`` Criminals may have been handed access to Virgin Media customers ’ data on a silver platter as a result of the breach .
It ’ s open season for fraudsters to scam and attack vulnerable people when no effort is even required to steal data that is simply left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious breach of consumer rights and it ’ s time companies like Virgin Media abide by the law and implement stricter cybersecurity measures to protect its customers from future data breaches .
`` There ’ s simply no excuse now given the volume of preceding breaches .
This was an avoidable event , and we must hold Virgin Media to account . ''
Virgin Media has apologised for the breach .
The company insisted the database was not hacked but had insufficient protection .
But it confirmed it had been accessed at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not state if the information obtained was used .
Lutz Schüler , CEO of Virgin Media said : `` We recently became aware that one of our marketing databases was incorrectly configured which allowed unauthorised access .
`` We immediately solved the issue by shutting down access to this database , which contained some contact details of approximately 900,000 people , including fixed line customers representing approximately 15 per cent of that customer base .
Protecting our customers ’ data is a top priority and we sincerely apologise .
`` The database did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , such as credit card information or bank account numbers , but did contain limited contact information such as names , home and email addresses and phone numbers .
Based upon our investigation , Virgin Media does believe that the database was accessed on at least one occasion but we do not know the extent of the access or if any information was actually used .
`` We are now contacting those affected to inform them of what happened .
We urge people to remain cautious before clicking on an unknown link or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unknown party .
Online security advice and help on a range of topics is available on our website .
We have kept the Information Commissioner ’ s Office fully updated since we became aware of this incident.
” Customers can sign up for legal representation by clicking here

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Thousands of Virgin Media customers in Birmingham could be in line for a £5,000 payout from a data breach - which left porn users exposed to possible blackmail and extortion.
Names, home and email addresses, dates of birth and contact details - as well as links to explicit websites - were available to access for the ten months until February due to an 'incorrectly configured database'.
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While the information did not include financial details or passwords, it left around 900,000 customers vulnerable to scams such as phishing emails, account takeovers and identity theft.
Now consumer action firm Your Lawyers is aiming to help people win compensation from Virgin. It estimates 15,000 people in Birmingham were affected and that payouts could be in the region of £5,000 each.
The law firm said the data, which was accessible between April 2019 and February 28 this year, also included contract details such as requests to block or unblock explicit websites - potentially leaving some open to blackmail and extortion.
Company director Aman Johal said: “We have formally notified Virgin Media that we are taking action and our claimant base is growing daily. We urge anyone affected by the breach to make a claim as soon as possible.
“Virgin Media failed to take the steps required to keep customer data safe and it is vital for the company to understand the severity of this breach.
"Criminals may have been handed access to Virgin Media customers’ data on a silver platter as a result of the breach. It’s open season for fraudsters to scam and attack vulnerable people when no effort is even required to steal data that is simply left exposed online.
“This is a serious breach of consumer rights and it’s time companies like Virgin Media abide by the law and implement stricter cybersecurity measures to protect its customers from future data breaches.
"There’s simply no excuse now given the volume of preceding breaches. This was an avoidable event, and we must hold Virgin Media to account."
Virgin Media has apologised for the breach. The company insisted the database was not hacked but had insufficient protection. But it confirmed it had been accessed at least once during the period although it could not state if the information obtained was used.
Lutz Schüler, CEO of Virgin Media said: "We recently became aware that one of our marketing databases was incorrectly configured which allowed unauthorised access.
"We immediately solved the issue by shutting down access to this database, which contained some contact details of approximately 900,000 people, including fixed line customers representing approximately 15 per cent of that customer base. Protecting our customers’ data is a top priority and we sincerely apologise.
"The database did not include any passwords or financial details, such as credit card information or bank account numbers, but did contain limited contact information such as names, home and email addresses and phone numbers. Based upon our investigation, Virgin Media does believe that the database was accessed on at least one occasion but we do not know the extent of the access or if any information was actually used.
"We are now contacting those affected to inform them of what happened. We urge people to remain cautious before clicking on an unknown link or giving any details to an unverified or unknown party. Online security advice and help on a range of topics is available on our website. We have kept the Information Commissioner’s Office fully updated since we became aware of this incident.”
Customers can sign up for legal representation by clicking here


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Ex-UK Athletics chief dies aged 60 as Olympic athletes pay tribute

Former UK Athletics performance director Neil Black has died aged 60 , the governing body has announced .
He coached Sir Mo Farah from 2011 to 2017 , during which time the distance runner won four Olympic and six World Championship gold medals in the 5,000 metres and 10,000m .
Black left as UKA performance director in October 2019 , after seven years in the role , following Great Britain ’ s disappointing showing in the World Athletics Championships in Doha and amid controversy over his support for banned US coach Alberto Salazar .
A statement on UKA ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shocked and saddened to confirm the loss of our friend and former colleague Neil Black who passed away suddenly at the weekend .
“ Neil loved the sport of athletics and dedicated his life to supporting athletes – as a world class physiotherapist , as head of sport science , and then in recent years as Performance Director for British Athletics .
“ Since leaving the role of UKA Performance Director in October 2019 , he had been continuing to support a number of athletes and coaches as an advisor .
“ Neil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knew and worked with him .
Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
” Black ’ s family said : “ We would like to thank people for the wonderful and heartfelt messages we have received .
So many people have been in touch , it is clear to us how loved Neil was and this is bringing us some comfort at this time.
” Tributes began to pour in from a number of athletes Black had worked with during his career .
Former heptathlon bronze medallist Kelly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with me and made sure I was held together physically and mentally .
So many things I want to say… I ’ ll miss you forever Neil Black.
” Chris Tomlinson , a former British long jumper , also tweeted : “ Such sad news to hear of the passing of Neil Black .
He was both my physio and team manager for many years .
R.I.P.
” Five-time Paralympic champion wheelchair racer Hannah Cockroft wrote : “ Such a great guy , always made time to come chat to me and see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passed me , and always took a true interest in my training and in my sport .
RIP Neil , you ’ ll be missed.
” The full list of athletes Black worked with in his career includes some of the biggest British names in athletics , including Sally Gunnell , Linford Christie , Colin Jackson , Roger Black , Iwan Thomas , Jonathan Edwards , Kelly Holmes , Denise Lewis , Jessica Ennis-Hill , Steve Backley and Greg Rutherford .
Black took up the UKA performance director role in September 2012 after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Olympic head coach .
He had been a physiotherapist at UKA before moving up ranks to take the top job .
A tweet on the official Team GB account read : “ Everyone at the British Olympic Association is shocked and deeply saddened by the news of the loss of Neil Black .
“ Our thoughts are with his family , friends and colleagues at this extremely difficult time .
”

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Former UK Athletics performance director Neil Black has died aged 60, the governing body has announced.
He coached Sir Mo Farah from 2011 to 2017, during which time the distance runner won four Olympic and six World Championship gold medals in the 5,000 metres and 10,000m.
Black left as UKA performance director in October 2019, after seven years in the role, following Great Britain’s disappointing showing in the World Athletics Championships in Doha and amid controversy over his support for banned US coach Alberto Salazar.
A statement on UKA’s website read: “British Athletics is shocked and saddened to confirm the loss of our friend and former colleague Neil Black who passed away suddenly at the weekend.
“Neil loved the sport of athletics and dedicated his life to supporting athletes – as a world class physiotherapist, as head of sport science, and then in recent years as Performance Director for British Athletics.
“Since leaving the role of UKA Performance Director in October 2019, he had been continuing to support a number of athletes and coaches as an advisor.
“Neil will be hugely missed by those that knew and worked with him. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Black’s family said: “We would like to thank people for the wonderful and heartfelt messages we have received. So many people have been in touch, it is clear to us how loved Neil was and this is bringing us some comfort at this time.”
Tributes began to pour in from a number of athletes Black had worked with during his career.
Former heptathlon bronze medallist Kelly Sotherton tweeted: “He came everywhere with me and made sure I was held together physically and mentally. So many things I want to say… I’ll miss you forever Neil Black.”
Chris Tomlinson, a former British long jumper, also tweeted: “Such sad news to hear of the passing of Neil Black. He was both my physio and team manager for many years. R.I.P.”
Five-time Paralympic champion wheelchair racer Hannah Cockroft wrote: “Such a great guy, always made time to come chat to me and see how I was getting on when he passed me, and always took a true interest in my training and in my sport. RIP Neil, you’ll be missed.”
The full list of athletes Black worked with in his career includes some of the biggest British names in athletics, including Sally Gunnell, Linford Christie, Colin Jackson, Roger Black, Iwan Thomas, Jonathan Edwards, Kelly Holmes, Denise Lewis, Jessica Ennis-Hill, Steve Backley and Greg Rutherford.
Black took up the UKA performance director role in September 2012 after Charles Van Commenee left his position as Olympic head coach.
He had been a physiotherapist at UKA before moving up ranks to take the top job.
A tweet on the official Team GB account read: “Everyone at the British Olympic Association is shocked and deeply saddened by the news of the loss of Neil Black.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this extremely difficult time.”


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Shane Lynch splits from wife after being at 'each other's throats' in lockdown

Boyzone singer Shane Lynch has revealed he has moved out of the family home after arguing with his wife during lockdown .
Lynch , 43 , admitted he and wife of 13 years Sheena White have been “ at each other ’ s throats ” while cooped up inside due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Appearing on former Hollyoaks actor Paul Danan ’ s Morning After podcast , he said : “ We have had difficult times and are going through difficult times right now in this isolation thing .
“ I ’ m not even in my family home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at each other ’ s throats .
It wasn ’ t a good time or a good space.
” Lynch and White have two daughters aged 11 and seven and married in 2007 .
The Irish singer said the family was not used to him spending so much time at home as he is usually on tour .
“ I ’ m usually on the road and for the first time I ’ ve spent three months in my house , ” he said .
“ All of a sudden I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out things about relationships and it can be very difficult .
It can be a struggle.
” Despite their struggles , Lynch , part of Boyzone alongside Ronan Keating , Keith Duffy , Michael Graham and the late Stephen Gately , said he hoped he could get back together with White .
“ I ’ m praying every day me and my wife sort out our things and I get back to my kids , ” he said .
“ I pray the longer me and my wife are apart at this moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ builds a strongness so when we get back together life will continue to be amazing in the next 15 , 20 , 30 years .
“ But I don ’ t know God ’ s plan .
Just because I love her and I love my children , does that mean there ’ s something new for me in life ?
I don ’ t know .
I have to wait my time .
”

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Boyzone singer Shane Lynch has revealed he has moved out of the family home after arguing with his wife during lockdown.
Lynch, 43, admitted he and wife of 13 years Sheena White have been “at each other’s throats” while cooped up inside due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Appearing on former Hollyoaks actor Paul Danan’s Morning After podcast, he said: “We have had difficult times and are going through difficult times right now in this isolation thing.
“I’m not even in my family home right now because me and her were at each other’s throats. It wasn’t a good time or a good space.”
Lynch and White have two daughters aged 11 and seven and married in 2007.
The Irish singer said the family was not used to him spending so much time at home as he is usually on tour.
“I’m usually on the road and for the first time I’ve spent three months in my house,” he said.
“All of a sudden I’m at home a lot. You find out things about relationships and it can be very difficult. It can be a struggle.”
Despite their struggles, Lynch, part of Boyzone alongside Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Michael Graham and the late Stephen Gately, said he hoped he could get back together with White.
“I’m praying every day me and my wife sort out our things and I get back to my kids,” he said.
“I pray the longer me and my wife are apart at this moment, during these difficult times, it builds a strongness so when we get back together life will continue to be amazing in the next 15, 20, 30 years.
“But I don’t know God’s plan. Just because I love her and I love my children, does that mean there’s something new for me in life? I don’t know. I have to wait my time.”


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Why the entire NHS should get a medal

Why the entire NHS should get a medal

The entire NHS and its staff should receive a medal for `` saving lives whilst demonstrating care and compassion '' , says West Midlands Mayor Andy Street .
He has joined calls for the NHS to be awarded the George Cross , which was created during the second World War to recognise heroism and courage by civilians .
Writing for website Conservative Home , Mr Street said : `` We see now , more than ever , how the NHS is the embodiment of British society .
And it is the NHS staff , putting themselves at risk daily , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heroines .
That is why I believe the George Cross is an appropriate acknowledgment of the bravery we are seeing .
`` This is not a gimmick and is more than mere pomp and circumstance .
These awards exist to allow us , as a society , to recognise those who have stepped forward in a time of need .
`` These are unprecedented times , but awarding this medal collectively , to thousands of people for their joint endeavour , has been done before .
In another echo of World War Two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 70 years to find a fitting precedent . ''
The UK will celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE ( Victory in Europe ) Day on May 8 .
This commemorates the defeat of the Nazi regime .
The Mayor compared the nation 's struggle during the war with the situation today .
He said : `` Since this outbreak began , wartime comparisons have been common .
We speak of our incredible health staff on the frontline .
Efforts to build ventilators evoke memories of Dunkirk .
The Government talks of unprecedented peacetime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the blitz spirit . ''
Mr Street added : `` It was during World War Two that the George Cross was created to reflect the courage of those civilians who showed extraordinary bravery in the face of danger .
We are seeing that courage again today . ''
The George Cross was awarded collectively to the people of Malta in 1942 in recognition of the heroism shown when the island was beseiged by Germany and Italy in the early years of the war .

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The entire NHS and its staff should receive a medal for "saving lives whilst demonstrating care and compassion", says West Midlands Mayor Andy Street.
He has joined calls for the NHS to be awarded the George Cross, which was created during the second World War to recognise heroism and courage by civilians.
Writing for website Conservative Home, Mr Street said: "We see now, more than ever, how the NHS is the embodiment of British society. And it is the NHS staff, putting themselves at risk daily, who have become our modern heroes and heroines. That is why I believe the George Cross is an appropriate acknowledgment of the bravery we are seeing.
"This is not a gimmick and is more than mere pomp and circumstance. These awards exist to allow us, as a society, to recognise those who have stepped forward in a time of need.
"These are unprecedented times, but awarding this medal collectively, to thousands of people for their joint endeavour, has been done before. In another echo of World War Two, we must look back more than 70 years to find a fitting precedent."
The UK will celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day on May 8. This commemorates the defeat of the Nazi regime. The Mayor compared the nation's struggle during the war with the situation today.
He said: "Since this outbreak began, wartime comparisons have been common. We speak of our incredible health staff on the frontline. Efforts to build ventilators evoke memories of Dunkirk. The Government talks of unprecedented peacetime measures. The work of volunteers invokes the blitz spirit."
Mr Street added: "It was during World War Two that the George Cross was created to reflect the courage of those civilians who showed extraordinary bravery in the face of danger. We are seeing that courage again today."
The George Cross was awarded collectively to the people of Malta in 1942 in recognition of the heroism shown when the island was beseiged by Germany and Italy in the early years of the war.


birminghammail--2020-04-21--M&S launch new cocktail in a can for £2 - and it sounds perfect

The infamous M & S Passion Star Martini has had a cheeky summer makeover .
Marks and Spencer has taken to social media to reveal a new addition to its iconic canned cocktail range .
M & S , a British institution with stores across Birmingham , is tantalising shoppers with a new boozy offering .
The high street giant has confirmed a new addition to its cocktail range - as a pink version joins the popular collection .
M & S , in an email to BirminghamLive , described the new product as `` he same delicious cocktail , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
It blends perfectly with the passionfruit and vanilla ( think raspberry ripple ice cream ! )
and M & S champions it as `` perfect for summery drinks on the balcony or in the garden . ''
UK based musician Wiley - @ wiley_ let his 450k followers know just how much a fan he is of these popular drinks on a recent Instagram story raving about how delicious they are .
The original M & S Passion Star Martini launched in September 2018 and swiftly moved up the ‘ cocktails @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overtaking the trusty G & T to become the number one in the country .
Could this new Pink Passion Star Martini do the same ?
The 300ml cans cost £2 .

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The infamous M&S Passion Star Martini has had a cheeky summer makeover.
Marks and Spencer has taken to social media to reveal a new addition to its iconic canned cocktail range.
M&S, a British institution with stores across Birmingham, is tantalising shoppers with a new boozy offering.
The high street giant has confirmed a new addition to its cocktail range - as a pink version joins the popular collection.
M&S, in an email to BirminghamLive, described the new product as "he same delicious cocktail, but with a fruity twist of raspberry".
It blends perfectly with the passionfruit and vanilla (think raspberry ripple ice cream!) and M&S champions it as "perfect for summery drinks on the balcony or in the garden."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
UK based musician Wiley - @wiley_ let his 450k followers know just how much a fan he is of these popular drinks on a recent Instagram story raving about how delicious they are.
The original M&S Passion Star Martini launched in September 2018 and swiftly moved up the ‘cocktails in a can’ best sellers list overtaking the trusty G&T to become the number one in the country.
Could this new Pink Passion Star Martini do the same? The 300ml cans cost £2.


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Drink drive arrest as DPD van careers through pub's beer garden wall

A man has been arrested on the suspicion of drink driving after a delivery van careered through a beer garden @ @ @ @ @ Midlands Police said the 26-year-old was detained after the DPD van left George Road and @ @ @ @ @ around 8.30pm on Monday , April 20 .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said @ @ @ @ @ has been arrested on suspicion of drink driving and is currently in police custody for @ @ @ @ @ footage – which has been views thousands of times – shows firefighters working at the @ @ @ @ @ .
Perplexed commentators have since taken to social media to share their thoughts on the @ @ @ @ @ `` How does that happen – it ’ s not even near the road .
@ @ @ @ @ `` They must have been desperate to deliver their parcels . ''
A DPD spokesman @ @ @ @ @ the incident and carrying out a full investigation .
They added : `` We are @ @ @ @ @ are carrying out a full investigation . ''

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A man has been arrested on the suspicion of drink driving after a delivery van careered through a beer garden wall in Oldbury.
West Midlands Police said the 26-year-old was detained after the DPD van left George Road and smashed through the brickwork at around 8.30pm on Monday, April 20.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "A 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of drink driving and is currently in police custody for questioning."
Mobile phone footage – which has been views thousands of times – shows firefighters working at the scene following the dramatic smash.
Perplexed commentators have since taken to social media to share their thoughts on the incident.
One said: "How does that happen – it’s not even near the road."
While another added: "They must have been desperate to deliver their parcels."
A DPD spokesman said they are aware of the incident and carrying out a full investigation.
They added: "We are aware of the incident and are carrying out a full investigation."


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Liverpool clear path for Aston Villa to complete transfer - reports

Aston Villa continue to be linked with Werder Bremen forward Milot Rashica .
The 28-year-old was on Villa 's radar in the January transfer window but no club was willing to meet Bremen ’ s £33million asking price .
After a blistering start to the season Rashica 's form has dipped since the turn of the year but Villa and Liverpool reportedly hold an interest .
Bremen sporting director Frank Baumann told German media outlet Deichstube : “ It is not certain he will go in the summer .
To do this , something must be found first which suits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dreamers either .
“ We know it is quite possible that Milot will be sold .
I don ’ t think the coronavirus crisis will affect his value.
” However , Rashica has major doubts about a potential move to Liverpool according to Weser Kurier .
They report the Kosovo international is aware he is unlikely to start in Jurgen Klopp 's team and will snub interest from Anfield in search of regular football elsewhere .
Bremen still want £33m for Rashica which would make him Villa 's record arrival if a deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agent , Altin Lala , recently fuelled the transfer fire by claiming that he anticipates a move in the near future for his client .
“ Before the coronavirus crisis , we were in contact with some clubs - including those from the Bundesliga , ” he told Sport1 .
“ At the moment , everything is standing still .
I am sure that soon , when we are back to normal , there will be movement on the topic and something will definitely happen .
“ It is clear that until the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entirely on staying up with Werder Bremen .
”

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Aston Villa continue to be linked with Werder Bremen forward Milot Rashica.
The 23-year-old was on Villa's radar in the January transfer window but no club was willing to meet Bremen’s £33million asking price.
After a blistering start to the season Rashica's form has dipped since the turn of the year but Villa and Liverpool reportedly hold an interest.
Bremen sporting director Frank Baumann told German media outlet Deichstube: “It is not certain he will go in the summer. To do this, something must be found first which suits both sides, but we are not dreamers either.
“We know it is quite possible that Milot will be sold. I don’t think the coronavirus crisis will affect his value.”
According to Bild, Rashica has a relegation release clause of just €15million (£13m) in his contract that can be exercised until mid-June.
The Bundesliga is set to resume after the German government gave to go-ahead for fixtures to be played behind closed doors and while Bremen are four points from safety, nine rounds of fixtures are still to be played.
Rashica also has a standard release clause of €38m (£33m) but that also reportedly expires on June 15 meaning suitors will have to act quickly.
The player’s agent, Altin Lala, recently fuelled the transfer fire by claiming that he anticipates a move in the near future for his client.
“Before the coronavirus crisis, we were in contact with some clubs - including those from the Bundesliga,” he told Sport1.
“At the moment, everything is standing still. I am sure that soon, when we are back to normal, there will be movement on the topic and something will definitely happen.
“It is clear that until the end of the season Milot will concentrate entirely on staying up with Werder Bremen.”


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Anger as gang of men defy lockdown to play football in city park

A gang of men sparked fury after playing football at a city park - defying a strict lockdown ban on social gatherings .
It is the second time gangs have been photographed flouting the rules at Gilbertstone Park , Yardley .
This time , a group of around eight men were caught on camera playing football inside the tennis courts on Monday ( April 20 ) evening .
A furious eyewitness contacted BirminghamLive and said : `` The idiots are back at Gilbertstone tennis courts , Yardley , again .
I thought these had been closed off ?
`` All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Two courts had two or three people playing on them , but in the end court there were about eight men playing football . ''
The gang were caught in the act at around 7.30pm .
Earlier this month , we told how a dog walker had again photographed a group of men who gathered to play football in the same park .
He took a picture of the gathering - which he claimed involved more than 20 men - on a tennis court in Gilbertstone Park .
The walker claimed they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegedly ignoring the two-metre rule imposed in an attempt to control the spread of the killer illness .
He said he called police when he returned home .
The dog walker told BirminghamLive : `` I was disgusted when I saw them .
These were n't young kids but men aged between 20 and around 40 .
They should have known better .
There were at least 20 of them .
`` They were inside the tennis courts playing football , getting close and tackling .
It is just unbelievable how selfish some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups of people sitting on the grass together too .
I have n't seen police on the park at all .
They need to go and break these groups up and fine them .
`` I have been told this group have met up before at the same time - its become like a regular game of footie meet-up .
It 's just beyond belief how stupid and selfish some people are . ''
It is unclear if they are the same group who were caught meeting up yesterday ( April 20 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently permitted one form of exercise each day - and only with members of their own household .
People are only allowed to leave their home for the following very limited purposes : • shopping for basic necessities , as infrequently as possible • one form of exercise a day - for example a run , walk , or cycle - alone or with members of your household ; • any medical need , to provide care or to help a vulnerable person ; and • travelling to and from work , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not be done from home .
These are the only reasons you should leave your home .
You should not be meeting friends .
If your friends ask you to meet , you should say No .
You should not be meeting family members who do not live in your home .
You should not be going shopping except for essentials like food and medicine — and you should do this as little as you can .
And use food delivery services where you can .
If you don ’ t follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers to enforce them , including through fines and dispersing gatherings .

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A gang of men sparked fury after playing football at a city park - defying a strict lockdown ban on social gatherings.
It is the second time gangs have been photographed flouting the rules at Gilbertstone Park, Yardley.
This time, a group of around eight men were caught on camera playing football inside the tennis courts on Monday (April 20) evening.
A furious eyewitness contacted BirminghamLive and said: "The idiots are back at Gilbertstone tennis courts, Yardley, again. I thought these had been closed off?
"All three tennis court were in use. Two courts had two or three people playing on them, but in the end court there were about eight men playing football."
The gang were caught in the act at around 7.30pm.
Earlier this month, we told how a dog walker had again photographed a group of men who gathered to play football in the same park.
He took a picture of the gathering - which he claimed involved more than 20 men - on a tennis court in Gilbertstone Park.
The walker claimed they were up close and tackling each other - allegedly ignoring the two-metre rule imposed in an attempt to control the spread of the killer illness.
He said he called police when he returned home.
The dog walker told BirminghamLive: "I was disgusted when I saw them. These weren't young kids but men aged between 20 and around 40. They should have known better. There were at least 20 of them.
"They were inside the tennis courts playing football, getting close and tackling. It is just unbelievable how selfish some people can be.
"There were groups of people sitting on the grass together too. I haven't seen police on the park at all. They need to go and break these groups up and fine them.
"I have been told this group have met up before at the same time - its become like a regular game of footie meet-up. It's just beyond belief how stupid and selfish some people are."
It is unclear if they are the same group who were caught meeting up yesterday (April 20).
Under government guidelines, people are currently permitted one form of exercise each day - and only with members of their own household.


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Hundreds of fly-tipping crimes as culprits blame tip closures

The closure of rubbish tips due to the coronavirus crisis is being used to justify fly-tipping crimes in Walsall .
Despite a year-on-year reduction , there were more than 300 reported incidents of fly-tipping in March while there have been more than 90 in April to date .
Walsall Council leader Mike Bird said some people have claimed fly-tipping has occurred due to sub-contractor Suez closing the waste and recycling centres in Bloxwich and Aldridge in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak .
The authority itself has also suspended garden waste collections as it prioritises household rubbish and recycling due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they will continue to hunt down offenders and shame them for their crimes .
Figures showed that in March , there were 320 fly-tipping incidents - 53 less than the year before .
So far this month , there have been 94 compared with 124 up to this date in April 2019 .
Councillor Bird said : `` We ’ re not sure if this is because people aren ’ t going out and have gone to ground or are lying low , such as those who would normally go to houses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll clear your house ' .
`` We are still seeing elements of fly-tipping but I ’ ve made it clear - we will see you with our covert cameras , we will find you and we will fine you .
And we will shame you for what is a criminal offence .
`` These are people who don ’ t care about the rest of the world , it ’ s just what ’ s convenient to them on the day .
`` It is shocking and some people will say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are closed but that is rubbish .
`` It ’ s not because the tips are closed .
`` I also get some saying ‘ oh , I ’ ve cleared my house or my garden and I ’ ve got nowhere to take it ’ .
`` Well , it was in your house before so put it in a pile in the corner and when the tip opens you will be able to take that then .
`` There are people complaining they are not getting their brown bins or grass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are people in ICU or have passed away who would love to have that problem .
`` I ’ m sorry but people have got to understand priorities in life . ''
Walsall Council has implemented a number of measures to combat fly-tipping , which is estimated to cost the authority up to £1 million per year to clear up .
This includes imposing the maximum fines possible by law and introducing 'Walsall 's Most Wanted ' page on its website which offers £500 for information that helps catch culprits .

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The closure of rubbish tips due to the coronavirus crisis is being used to justify fly-tipping crimes in Walsall.
Despite a year-on-year reduction, there were more than 300 reported incidents of fly-tipping in March while there have been more than 90 in April to date.
Walsall Council leader Mike Bird said some people have claimed fly-tipping has occurred due to sub-contractor Suez closing the waste and recycling centres in Bloxwich and Aldridge in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak.
The authority itself has also suspended garden waste collections as it prioritises household rubbish and recycling due to the restrictions.
But Councillor Bird said they will continue to hunt down offenders and shame them for their crimes.
Figures showed that in March, there were 320 fly-tipping incidents - 53 less than the year before.
So far this month, there have been 94 compared with 124 up to this date in April 2019.
Councillor Bird said: "We’re not sure if this is because people aren’t going out and have gone to ground or are lying low, such as those who would normally go to houses to say 'give us £50 and I’ll clear your house'.
"We are still seeing elements of fly-tipping but I’ve made it clear - we will see you with our covert cameras, we will find you and we will fine you. And we will shame you for what is a criminal offence.
"These are people who don’t care about the rest of the world, it’s just what’s convenient to them on the day.
"It is shocking and some people will say, it’s because the tips are closed but that is rubbish.
"It’s not because the tips are closed.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"I also get some saying ‘oh, I’ve cleared my house or my garden and I’ve got nowhere to take it’.
"Well, it was in your house before so put it in a pile in the corner and when the tip opens you will be able to take that then.
"There are people complaining they are not getting their brown bins or grass cuttings collected but I say to them there are people in ICU or have passed away who would love to have that problem.
"I’m sorry but people have got to understand priorities in life."
Walsall Council has implemented a number of measures to combat fly-tipping, which is estimated to cost the authority up to £1 million per year to clear up.
This includes imposing the maximum fines possible by law and introducing 'Walsall's Most Wanted' page on its website which offers £500 for information that helps catch culprits.


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Revealed: The celebrity Aston Villa fans you might not know supported the club

Sport gallery
32 famous Aston Villa fans you might not know were claret and blue
From Hollywood to Craggy Island - these are Aston Villa's celebrity supporters
(Image: Mirrorpix) 1 of 32 2 of 32 3 of 32 4 of 32 5 of 32 (Image: Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images) 6 of 32 7 of 32 8 of 32 9 of 32 10 of 32 11 of 32 12 of 32 (Image: Action Images / Andrew Boyers) 13 of 32 14 of 32 15 of 32 16 of 32 (Image: (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/French Select - Getty Images)) 17 of 32 18 of 32 19 of 32 20 of 32 21 of 32 (Image: Action Images / Ed Sykes) 22 of 32 (Image: Phtoo: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire) 23 of 32 24 of 32 25 of 32 26 of 32 27 of 32 28 of 32 29 of 32 30 of 32 31 of 32 32 of 32


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Watch the ePremier League FIFA esports tournament Live

Premier League stars will be competing on FIFA 20 as the inaugural ePremier League Invitational esports tournament begins today , @ @ @ @ @ Villa , Brighton , Arsenal , Watford , Burnley , West Ham , Bournemouth and @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday .
Aston Villa star John McGinn will represent the Midlands club in the competition @ @ @ @ @ 's Neal Maupay in the preliminary round at 12pm .
The prize fund will be @ @ @ @ @ initiative , which was created by Premier League players as a collective way of generating @ @ @ @ @ Service and distributing them where they are needed most .
Fans can watch and follow @ @ @ @ @ in our blog below .

Premier League stars will be competing on FIFA 20 as the inaugural ePremier League Invitational esports tournament begins today, with the likes of Aston Villa, Brighton, Arsenal, Watford, Burnley, West Ham, Bournemouth and Southampton all in action on Tuesday.
Aston Villa star John McGinn lost 6-1 to Brighton's Neal Maupay in the preliminary round at 12pm, with Arsenal, Watford, Burnley, West Ham, Bournemouth and Southampton all set to play between now and 4pm.
The prize fund will be donated to the #PlayersTogether initiative, which was created by Premier League players as a collective way of generating funds for the National Health Service and distributing them where they are needed most.
Fans can watch and follow the ePremier League Invitational live in our blog below.


birminghammail--2020-04-21--James McAvoy reveals NHS saved his life in emotional GMB interview

James McAvoy has praised the NHS for saving his life when he suffered a botched surgery .
The Scottish actor , who turned 41 on Tuesday , appeared on ITV 's Good Morning Britain to discuss the campaign to provide healthcare workers on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic with personal protective equipment ( PPE ) .
Last month , McAvoy donated £275,000 to the crowdfunding initiative Masks For NHS Heroes , which has now raised nearly £2 million of its £3 million target .
He said : `` The NHS has been there for me from the day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , me personally , they saved my life , which I wo n't go into too much .
`` For the lives of my loved ones and my family , you know , I would be without multiple members of my family and I mean close , close family if it were n't for the work of the NHS .
`` And as horrible as this experience is that we are all going through , it is teaching us just how important our welfare system is and our healthcare system is and how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that we reward and protect those who are in the business of protecting us . ''
Pressed by co-host Piers Morgan , he said : `` I think a lot of us are in that similar position .
In a less developed society , random everyday things might kill us .
`` You can fall over and bang your head and you 've got this beautiful thing called the NHS which will save your life .
`` You can have a little botched surgery , which is what happened to me , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your life .
`` You quickly realise in a situation like this just how close we are to all of that falling apart , how delicate and how precious it is and how much we need to look after it going forward . ''
McAvoy said he wanted to avoid casting blame for the shortage of PPE but said that `` somewhere along the line '' there had been failures .
He added : `` I honestly ca n't go into pointing fingers .
But there is clearly a problem somewhere along the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of supplies or a problem in distribution .
`` Either way , there is a failure there somewhere and what Masks For NHS Heroes is trying to do is trying to augment what is coming in from the Government already .
`` We are trying to help plug gaps and put fingers in dams and so far the British people , and people around the world , have been so incredible at responding to the appeal and we have made just under £2 million so we are trying our best . ''

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James McAvoy has praised the NHS for saving his life when he suffered a botched surgery.
The Scottish actor, who turned 41 on Tuesday, appeared on ITV's Good Morning Britain to discuss the campaign to provide healthcare workers on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic with personal protective equipment (PPE).
Last month, McAvoy donated £275,000 to the crowdfunding initiative Masks For NHS Heroes, which has now raised nearly £2 million of its £3 million target.
He said: "The NHS has been there for me from the day I was born. Throughout my life, me personally, they saved my life, which I won't go into too much.
"For the lives of my loved ones and my family, you know, I would be without multiple members of my family and I mean close, close family if it weren't for the work of the NHS.
"And as horrible as this experience is that we are all going through, it is teaching us just how important our welfare system is and our healthcare system is and how important it is that we respect, and that we reward and protect those who are in the business of protecting us."
Pressed by co-host Piers Morgan, he said: "I think a lot of us are in that similar position. In a less developed society, random everyday things might kill us.
"You can fall over and bang your head and you've got this beautiful thing called the NHS which will save your life.
"You can have a little botched surgery, which is what happened to me, and the NHS is there to save your life.
"You quickly realise in a situation like this just how close we are to all of that falling apart, how delicate and how precious it is and how much we need to look after it going forward."
McAvoy said he wanted to avoid casting blame for the shortage of PPE but said that "somewhere along the line" there had been failures.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
He added: "I honestly can't go into pointing fingers. But there is clearly a problem somewhere along the line, whether it's a shortage of supplies or a problem in distribution.
"Either way, there is a failure there somewhere and what Masks For NHS Heroes is trying to do is trying to augment what is coming in from the Government already.
"We are trying to help plug gaps and put fingers in dams and so far the British people, and people around the world, have been so incredible at responding to the appeal and we have made just under £2 million so we are trying our best."


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Five Guys re-opens restaurants for delivery and collection - FULL LIST

Five Guys has re-opened a string of UK restaurants amid the coronavirus pandemic .
After shutting branches amid the Covid-19 crisis , the burger chain is now set to start operating some sites again in line with government guidelines which allow restaurants to prepare food for collection or delivery .
For those customers ordering via Click and Collect , they will be prompted to pay for their order prior to visiting their local store , where social distancing measures are in place to ensure their safety and that of the crews .
Providing the full menu of freshly prepared food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to create their Five Guys burger from scratch by choosing a selection of fresh toppings – with 250,000 possible combinations as well as over 1,000 possible ways to customise a milkshake .
John Eckbert CEO of Five Guys UK said , `` We have adopted a phased approach to reopening Five Guys stores , adhering to government advice and ensuring the safety of our customers and crew is paramount .
To date a small number of stores have remained open for Click and Collect and Deliveroo orders only and while this has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of how our crew members have supported local hospitals and key frontline workers across the UK . ''
Here is the full list of stores currently operating in the UK :

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Five Guys has re-opened a string of UK restaurants amid the coronavirus pandemic.
After shutting branches amid the Covid-19 crisis, the burger chain is now set to start operating some sites again in line with government guidelines which allow restaurants to prepare food for collection or delivery.
For those customers ordering via Click and Collect, they will be prompted to pay for their order prior to visiting their local store, where social distancing measures are in place to ensure their safety and that of the crews.
Providing the full menu of freshly prepared food, customers will have the usual choices to create their Five Guys burger from scratch by choosing a selection of fresh toppings – with 250,000 possible combinations as well as over 1,000 possible ways to customise a milkshake.
John Eckbert CEO of Five Guys UK said, "We have adopted a phased approach to reopening Five Guys stores, adhering to government advice and ensuring the safety of our customers and crew is paramount. To date a small number of stores have remained open for Click and Collect and Deliveroo orders only and while this has been in operation, we’re proud of how our crew members have supported local hospitals and key frontline workers across the UK."
Here is the full list of stores currently operating in the UK:
Manchester University Green
Liverpool Queen Square
Leeds Duncan Street
Newcastle
Nottingham
Guildford
Bath
Plymouth
London Fulham
London Kings Road
London Baker Street
London Ealing
London Camden
London St Paul's
London Wimbledon
London Islington
London Bard Road
Edinburgh Fort Kinnaird
Edinburgh Fountain Park
Aberdeen


birminghammail--2020-04-21--Odds slashed on Love Island relocating to Isle of Man for summer 2020 series

We ’ re used to seeing contestants basking in searing Spanish heat when we watch Love Island .
But lockdown impacts on ITV ’ s schedule could see the show move closer to home .
Bookmakers Paddy Power have priced up where in and around the UK producers could relocate to , and London comes out on top at 2/1 .
However , if they choose to pick an actual island , the Isle of Man is second favourite at 4/1 .
Based between Great Britain and Ireland , it could be the ideal location for attracting contestants from each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Wight ( 6/1 ) is also in the betting , the same price as the remote location of the Scottish Highlands .
Essex , where plenty of former contestants hail from , is priced at 16/1 , ahead of major UK cities such as Manchester ( 20/1 ) , Liverpool ( 25/1 ) and Glasgow ( 33/1 ) .
However , with Britain in lockdown and ITV ’ s schedule becoming trickier to navigate , it ’ s rated odds-on 1/6 – or an 85 % chance - that there is no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is moved until winter again .
Spokesman Paddy Power said : “ Lockdown is putting pressure on the upcoming series of Love Island , and there are rumours producers could relocate the show much closer to home .
“ London is looking like the most likely destination , so contestants should prepare themselves to swap the beaches of Majorca for Ruislip Lido.
” WHERE WILL LOVE ISLAND FILMING BE RELOCATED TO ?
2/1 London 4/1 Isle of Man 6/1 Isle of Wight 6/1 Scottish Highlands 8/1 Any of the Channel Islands 10/1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 25/1 Liverpool 33/1 Glasgow 40/1 Newcastle 50/1 Blackpool 100/1 Birmingham

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We’re used to seeing contestants basking in searing Spanish heat when we watch Love Island.
But lockdown impacts on ITV’s schedule could see the show move closer to home.
Bookmakers Paddy Power have priced up where in and around the UK producers could relocate to, and London comes out on top at 2/1.
However, if they choose to pick an actual island, the Isle of Man is second favourite at 4/1. Based between Great Britain and Ireland, it could be the ideal location for attracting contestants from each location.
(Image: ITV)
With sandy beaches, Isle of Wight (6/1) is also in the betting, the same price as the remote location of the Scottish Highlands.
Essex, where plenty of former contestants hail from, is priced at 16/1, ahead of major UK cities such as Manchester (20/1), Liverpool (25/1) and Glasgow (33/1).
However, with Britain in lockdown and ITV’s schedule becoming trickier to navigate, it’s rated odds-on 1/6 – or an 85% chance - that there is no series this year, or 8/11 that it is moved until winter again.
Spokesman Paddy Power said: “Lockdown is putting pressure on the upcoming series of Love Island, and there are rumours producers could relocate the show much closer to home.
“London is looking like the most likely destination, so contestants should prepare themselves to swap the beaches of Majorca for Ruislip Lido.”
WHERE WILL LOVE ISLAND FILMING BE RELOCATED TO?
2/1 London
4/1 Isle of Man
6/1 Isle of Wight
6/1 Scottish Highlands
8/1 Any of the Channel Islands
10/1 Cornwall
14/1 Anglesey
16/1 Essex
20/1 Manchester
25/1 Liverpool
33/1 Glasgow
40/1 Newcastle
50/1 Blackpool
100/1 Birmingham