birminghammail--2020-02-07--Woman given £650 quote for new kitchen decides to do it herself - for just £27

A homeowner quoted £650 for a new kitchen decided to transform it herself - for just £27 .
After moving into her new home weeks ago , Charlotte Taylor decided to spruce it up .
We all want to make our homes our own , and give them our own stamp , and Charlotte was no different .
She had a small budget , though , which proved problematic , meaning she was facing a £650 bill to have her kitchen transformed .
Among the things she wanted done were wooden cupboards and dark worktops given a makeover .
Instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she bought a tin of paint from the Ronseal garden range for £12 .
She then transformed her kitchen cabinets into a light shade of grey , with three rolls of sticky fablon from Wilko , costing £5 for a two metre long roll .
She then added her own pink and grey accessories from her previous kitchen and gave the We Love Mrs Hinch group on Facebook a glimpse of her makeover .
5,000 people liked the post , in which she revealed : `` Just wanted to share my kitchen makeover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two weeks ago and hated the kitchen .
`` I was quoted £650 to have the cupboards resprayed and worktops covered so I decided to do it myself .
`` £12 for the paint , £15 for the fablon , and these are the results .
Absolutely over the moon .
Just another blind to go up and the floor to be done . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Luke Matthews, James Rodger)

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A homeowner quoted £650 for a new kitchen decided to transform it herself - for just £27.
After moving into her new home weeks ago, Charlotte Taylor decided to spruce it up.
We all want to make our homes our own, and give them our own stamp, and Charlotte was no different.
She had a small budget, though, which proved problematic, meaning she was facing a £650 bill to have her kitchen transformed.
Among the things she wanted done were wooden cupboards and dark worktops given a makeover.
Instead of forking out, the Mirror reports she bought a tin of paint from the Ronseal garden range for £12.
She then transformed her kitchen cabinets into a light shade of grey, with three rolls of sticky fablon from Wilko, costing £5 for a two metre long roll.
She then added her own pink and grey accessories from her previous kitchen and gave the We Love Mrs Hinch group on Facebook a glimpse of her makeover.
5,000 people liked the post, in which she revealed: "Just wanted to share my kitchen makeover. I only moved into this property two weeks ago and hated the kitchen.
"I was quoted £650 to have the cupboards resprayed and worktops covered so I decided to do it myself.
"£12 for the paint, £15 for the fablon, and these are the results. Absolutely over the moon. Just another blind to go up and the floor to be done."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Pensioner charged with wife's murder in Stourbridge

A pensioner has been charged with his wife 's murder after she was found dead at a Stourbridge home .
The body of 82-year-old Gian Bhandal was discovered by police at a house in Trehernes Drive on January 23 .
Her death was initially treated as unexplained but an investigation later led to the arrest of her spouse , Pargan Singh Bhandal .
The 82-year-old was questioned by detectives and later charged with murder .
He was set to appear at Leamington Justice Centre this morning , Friday , February 7 .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murder following the death of his wife at a house on Trehernes Drive , Stourbridge , last month .
`` Gian Bhandal , aged 82 , was found with fatal injuries on 23 January and her death was initially treated as unexplained .
`` Pargan Singh Bhandal was arrested on Wednesday , February 5 following an investigation into the circumstances of his wife ’ s death .
`` The 82-year-old was questioned by detectives and later charged with murder .
He is due to appear at Leamington Justice Centre this morning , February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relatives are being supported by a specialist police family liaison officer at this tragic time . ''

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A pensioner has been charged with his wife's murder after she was found dead at a Stourbridge home.
The body of 82-year-old Gian Bhandal was discovered by police at a house in Trehernes Drive on January 23.
Her death was initially treated as unexplained but an investigation later led to the arrest of her spouse, Pargan Singh Bhandal.
The 82-year-old was questioned by detectives and later charged with murder. He was set to appear at Leamington Justice Centre this morning, Friday, February 7.
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A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "A man has been charged with murder following the death of his wife at a house on Trehernes Drive, Stourbridge, last month.
"Gian Bhandal, aged 82, was found with fatal injuries on 23 January and her death was initially treated as unexplained.
"Pargan Singh Bhandal was arrested on Wednesday, February 5 following an investigation into the circumstances of his wife’s death.
"The 82-year-old was questioned by detectives and later charged with murder. He is due to appear at Leamington Justice Centre this morning, February 7.
"Mrs Bhandal’s relatives are being supported by a specialist police family liaison officer at this tragic time."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--MP uses first Commons speech to call for self-determination for Kashmir

Birmigham MP Tahir Ali used his first speech in the House of Commons to call for self-determination for the people of Kahsmir .
Mr Ali ( Lab ) , the newly-elected MP for Hall Green , told fellow MPs : `` More than 40 per cent of my constituents come from the region of Kashmir , so it is important to them to see the matter resolved . ''
He was delivering what is known as his maiden speech , the first speech by a new MP .
Kashmir is a region which is divided between India and Pakistan ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
It has been the subject of a dispute between the two countries since 1947 .
Mr Ali talked about the actions of the Indian government in August last year , when it revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir , a region which is administered by India and is part of the larger Kashmir region .
But he also said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were promised 70 years ago that they would be able to make their own decisions about their future , and were still waiting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ali told the House of Commons : `` On 5 August ... the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Indian Government decided to strip the state of Jammu and Kashmir of autonomy after seven decades , characterising it as the correction of a historical blunder .
`` This act is illegal and the international community ’ s silence on the matter is worrying .
`` In south Asia , the long drawn-out dispute over the state of Jammu and Kashmir remains a hanging fireball between two hostile nuclear neighbours , India and Pakistan.
`` He added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take sides , such as to be pro-Pakistan or anti-India .
I believe , as a Kashmiri , that it is my duty to highlight the abuses and human rights violations to this House . ''
Mr Ali went on : `` Even after seven decades , the people of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir are waiting for their right of self-determination , promised by the United Nations .
`` Notwithstanding over 25 United Nations resolutions calling for a solution to the dispute , India remains reluctant to grant the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Scottish people were rightly afforded a referendum to express their desire for independence .
The UK had a referendum on remaining in or leaving the EU .
Seven decades later , the people of Kashmir are still waiting . ''

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Birmigham MP Tahir Ali used his first speech in the House of Commons to call for self-determination for the people of Kahsmir.
Mr Ali (Lab), the newly-elected MP for Hall Green, told fellow MPs: "More than 40 per cent of my constituents come from the region of Kashmir, so it is important to them to see the matter resolved."
He was delivering what is known as his maiden speech, the first speech by a new MP.
Kashmir is a region which is divided between India and Pakistan (with a smaller part controlled by China). It has been the subject of a dispute between the two countries since 1947.
Mr Ali talked about the actions of the Indian government in August last year, when it revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, a region which is administered by India and is part of the larger Kashmir region.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
But he also said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were promised 70 years ago that they would be able to make their own decisions about their future, and were still waiting for the promise to be kept.
Mr Ali told the House of Commons: "On 5 August ... the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Indian Government decided to strip the state of Jammu and Kashmir of autonomy after seven decades, characterising it as the correction of a historical blunder.
"This act is illegal and the international community’s silence on the matter is worrying.
"In south Asia, the long drawn-out dispute over the state of Jammu and Kashmir remains a hanging fireball between two hostile nuclear neighbours, India and Pakistan. "
He added: "My role is not to take sides, such as to be pro-Pakistan or anti-India. I believe, as a Kashmiri, that it is my duty to highlight the abuses and human rights violations to this House."
Mr Ali went on: "Even after seven decades, the people of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir are waiting for their right of self-determination, promised by the United Nations.
"Notwithstanding over 25 United Nations resolutions calling for a solution to the dispute, India remains reluctant to grant the Kashmiris their right of self-determination.
"The Scottish people were rightly afforded a referendum to express their desire for independence. The UK had a referendum on remaining in or leaving the EU. Seven decades later, the people of Kashmir are still waiting."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Hundreds of strangers turn up to funeral of war hero who died with no family

Hundreds of strangers turned out today to say a final farewell to one of Britain ’ s most decorated war heroes after he died with no surviving family .
Bomb aimer Jim Auton , MBE , who was awarded 19 medals for his brave RAF exploits during the Second World War , passed away aged 95 on January 18 .
He was believed to have been the last British survivor of the Warsaw Air Bridge , the perilous operation to drop supplies to fighters of the Warsaw Uprising .
RAF top brass this week launched an appeal for mourners to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not get the fitting send-off he deserved .
And today more than 200 people gathered to line the streets to pay tribute to the war veteran at a service held at Newark Parish Church , in his home town of Newark , Notts .
He was given an RAF guard of honour as his coffin , draped in the Union Jack , was led into the church by pallbearers which included Air Force officers past and present .
The service began with the son ‘ Nimrod ’ by Elgar before tributes were made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Consul General of Poland in Manchester .
Mr Rowicki , reading a letter from the Polish Government , said : “ I want to express our sorrow .
Jim was a friend of the Polish people .
“ He was a hero who served for the benefit of British and Polish people .
He built bridges between Britain and Poland .
“ I had the honour of meeting him and knowing him personally .
He visited the consulate in Manchester .
“ He was a real hero for me .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I decorated him with the Order of Merit of Poland on behalf of President Duda .
“ He spent 50 minutes circling the city of Warsaw , where he saw the fires and devastation .
“ I would call him a hero and a friend of Poland .
I would like to thank Paul Trickett for being his friend and caring for him .
You did a great job.
” Reverend Paul Franklin , who presided over the funeral , said in his eulogy : “ We have come here today to remember @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commit his body to the ground and comfort one another in our grief .
“ Jim and I prayed together in his final days .
We don ’ t need to fear death or that dark place .
`` We give thanks to Jim for all that was good in his life .
We also give thanks for the memories we treasure today.
” The service then closed with The Lord ’ s Prayer , Onward Christian Soldiers and ‘ Time to Say Goodbye , sung by Andrea Bocelli , before he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fearlessly risked his life twice to carry out daring low-level drops of supplies during the infamous 1944 Warsaw Uprising .
The 68-day revolt against Nazi occupation cost the lives of 18,000 Polish fighters and 180,000 civilians .
He was awarded 19 medals for bravery and valour making him one of Britain ’ s most decorated servicemen of the conflict .
Mr Auton grew up on RAF bases as his father was a member of the ground crew who maintained some of the RAF 's earliest aircraft .
He joined up himself in 1941 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on British cities caused by the Luftwaffe , hoped to do his bit .
Initially , he wanted to be a Spitfire pilot but was later re-trained as a bomb-aimer .
Speaking previously , he said : `` Being a pilot in the Royal Air Force was the only thing I wanted to do with my life .
“ As a youngster , I used to pretend I was flying a plane and as soon as I could I joined up .
“ It ’ s all any lad my age wanted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elite members ’ club – the flyers , the men at the very top of the chain .
“ We were not old enough to drive or get married – but we were old enough to fly planes .
“ We lived each day like it was our last , smoking and drinking anything we could lay our hands on.
” Mr Auton flew 37 wartime missions with the 178 Squadron but is best known for his contribution and bravery during the Warsaw Uprising .
On August 1 , 1944 , after five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups in the city rebelled in an effort to overthrow their oppressors .
Within the next few days , around 180,000 Polish civilians were killed , including an estimated 60,000 children , with supplies running low .
Winston Churchill sent over 200 low-level RAF supply drops to the besieged city in an operation known as the Warsaw Airlift .
On August 12 , 1944 , Mr Auton and his crew flew to Warsaw to drop 12 containers with essential weapons , ammunition and medical supplies .
During a six-hour flight to the beleaguered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aircraft shot down before they found the drop zone .
His crew all agreed they would not return home until the Armia Krajowa ( Home Army ) soldiers received their supplies .
Speaking previously about the operation , Mr Auton , who wrote a book about liberating the Eastern Front , said : `` We must have been mad .
`` Planes were being shot down all around us .
`` I said we had not come all this way to drop the supplies in the wrong place .
You just felt like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Two nights later , he and his crew would return to drop further supplies .
On his 37th military mission , Mr Auton was seriously wounded , suffering damage to his lungs and he lost an eye .
After the war , he became fluent in six languages and was even asked to spy for British intelligence , but refused .
He built a profession in engineering and spent 30 years working alongside both the Polish and Czech presidents .
He also launched his own companies – in the UK and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He was called a “ true friend of Poland ” in a letter signed by that country 's ambassador in October last year for his role in liberating the country .
Mr Auton received thousands of messages of thanks and support from people in Poland , who recognised his outstanding service during the conflict .
He was also awarded the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland by President Andrzej Duda , which is the highest award a foreigner can receive .
For his wartime bravery , he received 19 medals from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He was also bestowed an MBE from Prince Charles for his charity work , which included raising £3m Air Bridge Association , which he also founded .
In 1989 , he was responsible for the creation of the Warsaw Air Bridge Memorial in Newark Cemetery .
The memorial cross was erected to commemorate both the Armia Krajowa and the 250 British , Polish and South African airmen who died in supporting the uprising in Poland .
His wife , Peggy , who died in 2016 , is buried by the cross and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the church where he was laid to rest this afternoon .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Tom Hitchenor, James Rodger)

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Hundreds of strangers turned out today to say a final farewell to one of Britain’s most decorated war heroes after he died with no surviving family.
Bomb aimer Jim Auton, MBE, who was awarded 19 medals for his brave RAF exploits during the Second World War, passed away aged 95 on January 18.
He was believed to have been the last British survivor of the Warsaw Air Bridge, the perilous operation to drop supplies to fighters of the Warsaw Uprising.
RAF top brass this week launched an appeal for mourners to attend his funeral after fears he would not get the fitting send-off he deserved.
(Image: Newark Advertiser / SWNS)
And today more than 200 people gathered to line the streets to pay tribute to the war veteran at a service held at Newark Parish Church, in his home town of Newark, Notts.
He was given an RAF guard of honour as his coffin, draped in the Union Jack, was led into the church by pallbearers which included Air Force officers past and present.
(Image: Newark Advertiser / SWNS)
The service began with the son ‘Nimrod’ by Elgar before tributes were made by Dave Baliolo Key and Leszek Rowicki, the Consul General of Poland in Manchester.
Mr Rowicki, reading a letter from the Polish Government, said: “I want to express our sorrow. Jim was a friend of the Polish people.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
“He was a hero who served for the benefit of British and Polish people. He built bridges between Britain and Poland.
“I had the honour of meeting him and knowing him personally. He visited the consulate in Manchester.
“He was a real hero for me. I last saw him in December 2019 where I decorated him with the Order of Merit of Poland on behalf of President Duda.
“He spent 50 minutes circling the city of Warsaw, where he saw the fires and devastation.
“I would call him a hero and a friend of Poland. I would like to thank Paul Trickett for being his friend and caring for him. You did a great job.”
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
Reverend Paul Franklin, who presided over the funeral, said in his eulogy: “We have come here today to remember Jim.
“We have come to commit his body to the ground and comfort one another in our grief.
“Jim and I prayed together in his final days. We don’t need to fear death or that dark place.
"We give thanks to Jim for all that was good in his life. We also give thanks for the memories we treasure today.”
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
The service then closed with The Lord’s Prayer, Onward Christian Soldiers and ‘Time to Say Goodbye, sung by Andrea Bocelli, before he was buried at Newark Cemetery.
Mr Auton fearlessly risked his life twice to carry out daring low-level drops of supplies during the infamous 1944 Warsaw Uprising.
The 68-day revolt against Nazi occupation cost the lives of 18,000 Polish fighters and 180,000 civilians.
He was awarded 19 medals for bravery and valour making him one of Britain’s most decorated servicemen of the conflict.
Mr Auton grew up on RAF bases as his father was a member of the ground crew who maintained some of the RAF's earliest aircraft.
He joined up himself in 1941 and, having seen the devastation poured on British cities caused by the Luftwaffe, hoped to do his bit.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
Initially, he wanted to be a Spitfire pilot but was later re-trained as a bomb-aimer.
Speaking previously, he said: "Being a pilot in the Royal Air Force was the only thing I wanted to do with my life.
“As a youngster, I used to pretend I was flying a plane and as soon as I could I joined up.
“It’s all any lad my age wanted to do...to become part of that elite members’ club – the flyers, the men at the very top of the chain.
“We were not old enough to drive or get married – but we were old enough to fly planes.
“We lived each day like it was our last, smoking and drinking anything we could lay our hands on.”
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
Mr Auton flew 37 wartime missions with the 178 Squadron but is best known for his contribution and bravery during the Warsaw Uprising.
On August 1, 1944, after five years of Nazi rule, the resistance groups in the city rebelled in an effort to overthrow their oppressors.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
Within the next few days, around 180,000 Polish civilians were killed, including an estimated 60,000 children, with supplies running low.
Winston Churchill sent over 200 low-level RAF supply drops to the besieged city in an operation known as the Warsaw Airlift.
On August 12, 1944, Mr Auton and his crew flew to Warsaw to drop 12 containers with essential weapons, ammunition and medical supplies.
During a six-hour flight to the beleaguered city, he witnessed one of their aircraft shot down before they found the drop zone.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
His crew all agreed they would not return home until the Armia Krajowa (Home Army) soldiers received their supplies.
Speaking previously about the operation, Mr Auton, who wrote a book about liberating the Eastern Front, said: "We must have been mad.
"Planes were being shot down all around us.
"I said we had not come all this way to drop the supplies in the wrong place. You just felt like a robot and the training took over."
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
Two nights later, he and his crew would return to drop further supplies.
On his 37th military mission, Mr Auton was seriously wounded, suffering damage to his lungs and he lost an eye.
After the war, he became fluent in six languages and was even asked to spy for British intelligence, but refused.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
He built a profession in engineering and spent 30 years working alongside both the Polish and Czech presidents.
He also launched his own companies – in the UK and abroad – buying and exporting goods.
He was called a “true friend of Poland” in a letter signed by that country's ambassador in October last year for his role in liberating the country.
Mr Auton received thousands of messages of thanks and support from people in Poland, who recognised his outstanding service during the conflict.
(Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
He was also awarded the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland by President Andrzej Duda, which is the highest award a foreigner can receive.
For his wartime bravery, he received 19 medals from countries including France, Poland and Czechoslovakia.
He was also bestowed an MBE from Prince Charles for his charity work, which included raising £3m Air Bridge Association, which he also founded.
In 1989, he was responsible for the creation of the Warsaw Air Bridge Memorial in Newark Cemetery.
(Image: Newark Advertiser / SWNS)
The memorial cross was erected to commemorate both the Armia Krajowa and the 250 British, Polish and South African airmen who died in supporting the uprising in Poland.
His wife, Peggy, who died in 2016, is buried by the cross and he has a plot next to her at the church where he was laid to rest this afternoon.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Police hunt Birmingham Snow Hill perv in Peaky Blinders cap who exposed himself to mum and daughter

Police are hunting a pervert wearing a Peaky Blinders-style hat who exposed himself in front of a woman before groping @ @ @ @ @ approached the shocked pair while travelling on a train towards Birmingham Snow Hill station .
@ @ @ @ @ they left the train before groping the woman ’ s daughter at around 6.55pm on @ @ @ @ @ Police have released CCTV images of the suspect who wore a distinctive Peaky Blinders hat @ @ @ @ @ : “ A man is reported to have touched himself inappropriately in front of a @ @ @ @ @ train travelled between Birmingham Moor Street and Birmingham Snow Hill .
“ The man is @ @ @ @ @ the pair off the train at Snow Hill and inappropriately touched the daughter .
“ @ @ @ @ @ to the man in the images who may have information that could help their investigation.
@ @ @ @ @ is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 @ @ @ @ @ of 26/01/20 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Mark Cardwell, James Rodger)

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Police are hunting a pervert wearing a Peaky Blinders-style hat who exposed himself in front of a woman before groping her daughter.
The fiend approached the shocked pair while travelling on a train towards Birmingham Snow Hill station.
He then followed them as they left the train before groping the woman’s daughter at around 6.55pm on January 26.
British Transport Police have released CCTV images of the suspect who wore a distinctive Peaky Blinders hat.
(Image: SWNS)
A police spokesperson said: “A man is reported to have touched himself inappropriately in front of a woman and daughter as the train travelled between Birmingham Moor Street and Birmingham Snow Hill.
“The man is then reported to have followed the pair off the train at Snow Hill and inappropriately touched the daughter.
(Image: SWNS)
“Officers would like to speak to the man in the images who may have information that could help their investigation.”
Anyone who knows him is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 and quoting reference number 433 of 26/01/20.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--M6 chaos with TEN miles of traffic sparking huge delays for motorists

The M6 is suffering ten miles of congestion on Friday morning - with huge delays for frustrated drivers .
Motorists were left fuming after severe delays unfolded on approach to J14 .
The M6 northbound is currently impacted by ten miles of congestion , with queuing traffic back to J12 near Cannock .
Highways England has issued guidance to drivers over the incident , addressing the traffic and travel chaos on Friday .
In a brief Twitter statement , the agency wrote : `` We strongly advise that you allow plenty of extra time for your journey this morning .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ severe delays on the M6 northbound in Staffordshire due to overnight roadworks which are overrunning due to a Hiab ( lorry mounted crane ) which has broken down within J14 near Stafford .
“ Recovery agents are in attendance working hard to repair the vehicle so the road can be re-opened as quickly as possible .
“ The carriageway is fully closed within J14 , with traffic diverting around the closure via the exit and entry slips .
“ There are over nine-and-a-half miles of congestion , with average journey times now taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time of day.
” West Midlands Police has been approached for comment .
Each day BirminghamLive journalists bring you the latest news on the roads and railways across Birmingham and the West Midlands and further afield to help keep you on the move .
For the very latest updates on roads including the M6 , M42 , M5 and more , visit our dedicated traffic and travel news Facebook page here .
You can also bookmark BirminghamLive 's Traffic and Travel landing page here .

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The M6 is suffering ten miles of congestion on Friday morning - with huge delays for frustrated drivers.
Motorists were left fuming after severe delays unfolded on approach to J14.
The M6 northbound is currently impacted by ten miles of congestion, with queuing traffic back to J12 near Cannock.
Highways England has issued guidance to drivers over the incident, addressing the traffic and travel chaos on Friday.
In a brief Twitter statement, the agency wrote: "We strongly advise that you allow plenty of extra time for your journey this morning."
They said: “There are severe delays on the M6 northbound in Staffordshire due to overnight roadworks which are overrunning due to a Hiab (lorry mounted crane) which has broken down within J14 near Stafford.
“Recovery agents are in attendance working hard to repair the vehicle so the road can be re-opened as quickly as possible.
“ The carriageway is fully closed within J14, with traffic diverting around the closure via the exit and entry slips.
“There are over nine-and-a-half miles of congestion, with average journey times now taking an hour-and-a-half longer than normal for this time of day.”
West Midlands Police has been approached for comment.
Each day BirminghamLive journalists bring you the latest news on the roads and railways across Birmingham and the West Midlands and further afield to help keep you on the move.
For the very latest updates on roads including the M6, M42, M5 and more, visit our dedicated traffic and travel news Facebook page here.
You can also bookmark BirminghamLive's Traffic and Travel landing page here.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Schoolboy stab victim Babacar Diagne, 15, lived in Birmingham

A boy of 15 who was stabbed to death used to live in Birmingham .
Babacar Diagne lived in Sutton Coldfield until he moved to Coventry .
He was found collapsed on grassland off Petitor Crescent in the city 's Wood End area , at around 7pm on Wednesday , February 5 .
He was pronounced dead at the scene .
Another 15-year-old was arrested on suspicion of murder in Canley , Coventry , on the evening of Thursday , February 6 .
Five others were detained on suspicion of assisting an offender .
All six were still in custody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understood Babacar was attacked by three black males who arrived at the murder scene on bikes The reason behind the attack was not clear but the force said detectives were working on a number of possible motives .
It said officers had already completed local enquiries and spoken to several witnesses .
CCTV was seized for examination and work continued to sift through the many hours of footage in the hope the killers will have been caught on camera .
Investigating officer , Det Chief Insp Scott Griffiths , said : “ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on this enquiry .
There is lots of work going on behind the scenes to understand exactly what happened and who is responsible .
“ We have arrested one boy on suspicion of murder but we believe two others were directly involved in the attack that resulted in Babacar ’ s death .
“ Five other people have been arrested because we believe they were harbouring the suspect and trying to help him avoid capture .
“ Let me be really clear .
Anyone found to be hindering our investigation by helping murder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potentially be jailed .
“ We are determined to get justice for Babacar and his family , as I ’ m sure the communities of Coventry are too .
We are looking for offenders who have stabbed a boy to death .
These are very dangerous individuals and we need them off the streets .
“ I would urge anyone who suspects they know who ’ s involved , or if anyone has overheard a conversation about the stabbing or saw anything suspicious near Petitor Crescent on Wednesday night , to please get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do not deserve protection .
They have killed a child and we all collectively need to make a stand to show this is not acceptable.
” If anyone was driving through the Petitor Crescent area between 6-8pm on Wednesday and has dash-cam footage then police would like them to get in touch on 101 or message us on Live Chat via the website .
Information can also be passed anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 .

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A boy of 15 who was stabbed to death used to live in Birmingham.
Babacar Diagne lived in Sutton Coldfield until he moved to Coventry.
He was found collapsed on grassland off Petitor Crescent in the city's Wood End area, at around 7pm on Wednesday, February 5. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Another 15-year-old was arrested on suspicion of murder in Canley, Coventry, on the evening of Thursday, February 6.
Five others were detained on suspicion of assisting an offender. All six were still in custody.
(Image: WMP)
West Midlands Police said it was understood Babacar was attacked by three black males who arrived at the murder scene on bikes
The reason behind the attack was not clear but the force said detectives were working on a number of possible motives.
It said officers had already completed local enquiries and spoken to several witnesses.
(Image: WMP)
CCTV was seized for examination and work continued to sift through the many hours of footage in the hope the killers will have been caught on camera.
Investigating officer, Det Chief Insp Scott Griffiths, said: “We have a team of officers working solely on this enquiry. There is lots of work going on behind the scenes to understand exactly what happened and who is responsible.
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“We have arrested one boy on suspicion of murder but we believe two others were directly involved in the attack that resulted in Babacar’s death.
“Five other people have been arrested because we believe they were harbouring the suspect and trying to help him avoid capture.
“Let me be really clear. Anyone found to be hindering our investigation by helping murder suspects lie low will be arrested and potentially be jailed.
“We are determined to get justice for Babacar and his family, as I’m sure the communities of Coventry are too. We are looking for offenders who have stabbed a boy to death. These are very dangerous individuals and we need them off the streets.
“I would urge anyone who suspects they know who’s involved, or if anyone has overheard a conversation about the stabbing or saw anything suspicious near Petitor Crescent on Wednesday night, to please get in touch.
“The people responsible do not deserve protection. They have killed a child and we all collectively need to make a stand to show this is not acceptable.”
If anyone was driving through the Petitor Crescent area between 6-8pm on Wednesday and has dash-cam footage then police would like them to get in touch on 101 or message us on Live Chat via the website.
Information can also be passed anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--'Only going to get better' - Pep Clotet praises strikers after Birmingham City beat Bristol City

Pep Clotet paid tribute to his striking double act as Lukas Jutkiewicz and Scott Hogan both found the net at Bristol City .
Hogan bagged his second Birmingham City goal in as many games since his loan move from Aston Villa , while Jutkiewicz applied a deft stoppage time finish to secure a superb 3-1 victory .
Andi Weimann put past his own goalkeeper to give Blues a half time lead - after Marc Roberts had handed the hosts an early lead .
And the head coach was thrilled with his whole team - but especially his strike-force .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game required and we showed we can do both things , ” Clotet said .
“ I think we played outstanding football in the first half despite it was very , very difficult after two minutes .
“ We didn ’ t change anything because we knew that goal had no impact in the way they were setting up or we were setting up .
“ But the team managed to attack well in the first half , control possession , find spaces and to turn a game that was very difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that hadn ’ t conceded a goal for the last four games .
“ The second half we knew we were holding a very good result away from home and we understood the game was going to be about us getting a third goal .
“ But the way to the third goal was going to be different to the way to the goals in the first half because we were sure Bristol would think that we ’ d had extra time and would be a bit leggy .
“ So we thought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we knew Nahki Wells would come on and they had the possibility to switch to three at the back so we could invite them on a little bit more and catch them on the break .
“ We tried to but unfortunately we didn ’ t have the success – the goal came on the last thing we were doing , using Jukey as an individual player .
“ I think he was outstanding actually and I want to use this opportunity to congratulate him for his one hundredth goal in the leagues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he needed to be when the ball dropped .
Massive credit to him to score two goals in his first two games – long may it continue .
“ We are all here to back him and support him .
He said to me yesterday every time he plays against Bristol he scores and he is right .
“ After today six games against Bristol and six goals – we knew he would always have chances because he is quicker than the Bristol defence and it ’ s about how we can supply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he gets offside because he is too quick .
“ He was always in the right position – as was Jukey , they both have their strengths , they are different to each other and that ’ s what makes them very complementary .
“ When we brought him in personally I spoke to him and told him he is exactly the player that we want – to do what he has been doing the last two games .
“ He is the best that we can find to do it .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know the Scott Hogan from Aston Villa and I don ’ t know the Scott Hogan from Stoke but I really know very well the Scott Hogan from Brentford and that ’ s the one we are bringing in .
“ We believe massively .
He is only going to get better the more confident he gets .
The whole team is backing him , he works very hard and I have the feeling he has a little bit of a point to prove that will give him extra motivation .
”

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Pep Clotet paid tribute to his striking double act as Lukas Jutkiewicz and Scott Hogan both found the net at Bristol City.
Hogan bagged his second Birmingham City goal in as many games since his loan move from Aston Villa, while Jutkiewicz applied a deft stoppage time finish to secure a superb 3-1 victory.
Andi Weimann put past his own goalkeeper to give Blues a half time lead - after Marc Roberts had handed the hosts an early lead.
(Image: PA)
And the head coach was thrilled with his whole team - but especially his strike-force.
“The good thing is we managed what the game required and we showed we can do both things,” Clotet said.
“I think we played outstanding football in the first half despite it was very, very difficult after two minutes.
“We didn’t change anything because we knew that goal had no impact in the way they were setting up or we were setting up.
“But the team managed to attack well in the first half, control possession, find spaces and to turn a game that was very difficult and score two goals against a team that hadn’t conceded a goal for the last four games.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
“The second half we knew we were holding a very good result away from home and we understood the game was going to be about us getting a third goal.
“But the way to the third goal was going to be different to the way to the goals in the first half because we were sure Bristol would think that we’d had extra time and would be a bit leggy.
“So we thought they would come more at us, we knew Nahki Wells would come on and they had the possibility to switch to three at the back so we could invite them on a little bit more and catch them on the break.
“We tried to but unfortunately we didn’t have the success – the goal came on the last thing we were doing, using Jukey as an individual player.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
“I think he was outstanding actually and I want to use this opportunity to congratulate him for his one hundredth goal in the leagues.
“Scott Hogan was exactly where he needed to be when the ball dropped. Massive credit to him to score two goals in his first two games – long may it continue.
“We are all here to back him and support him. He said to me yesterday every time he plays against Bristol he scores and he is right.
“After today six games against Bristol and six goals – we knew he would always have chances because he is quicker than the Bristol defence and it’s about how we can supply him at the right moment – before he gets offside because he is too quick.
“He was always in the right position – as was Jukey, they both have their strengths, they are different to each other and that’s what makes them very complementary.
“When we brought him in personally I spoke to him and told him he is exactly the player that we want – to do what he has been doing the last two games.
“He is the best that we can find to do it.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
“I told him I don’t know the Scott Hogan from Aston Villa and I don’t know the Scott Hogan from Stoke but I really know very well the Scott Hogan from Brentford and that’s the one we are bringing in.
“We believe massively. He is only going to get better the more confident he gets. The whole team is backing him, he works very hard and I have the feeling he has a little bit of a point to prove that will give him extra motivation.”


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Fan survey rates Aston Villa's owners amongst the best in England

Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens ' ownership of Aston Villa has struck a chord with fans of the club .
After rescuing the club from assumed financial oblivion and the threat of liquidation in 2018 , Villa have went from strength to strength under the watchful eye of Sawiris , Edens and CEO Christian Purslow .
That has been highlighted in an ownership survey put forward to English football fans .
NSWE - Villa 's ownership group scored an overall rating of 91.88 out of 100 according to the fan survey .
In terms of the highest scoring areas within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in stadium upkeepe , football operations , treatment of fans and of course financing the club .
The poorest areas were a 6.83 score in overall communication as well as a 7 out of ten for transparency .
The results of Against League 3 's 2019 ownership survey can be viewed here .
Specifically , fans praised Villa for airing long and thoughtful interviews with chief executive officer and member of NSWE , Christian Purslow on their club media channels .
Villa fans also highlighted that NSWE plan to stick around and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the HS2 expansion through Bodymoor Heath .
The latest chapter of the group 's ownership will begin within the next few months - as Villa either prepare to build in the Premier League , or regroup their efforts for another Championship campaign .
Here 's hoping it 's the former .

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Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens' ownership of Aston Villa has struck a chord with fans of the club.
After rescuing the club from assumed financial oblivion and the threat of liquidation in 2018, Villa have went from strength to strength under the watchful eye of Sawiris, Edens and CEO Christian Purslow.
That has been highlighted in an ownership survey put forward to English football fans.
NSWE - Villa's ownership group scored an overall rating of 91.88 out of 100 according to the fan survey.
In terms of the highest scoring areas within the survey, the owners scored well in stadium upkeepe, football operations, treatment of fans and of course financing the club.
The poorest areas were a 6.83 score in overall communication as well as a 7 out of ten for transparency.
The results of Against League 3's 2019 ownership survey can be viewed here.
Specifically, fans praised Villa for airing long and thoughtful interviews with chief executive officer and member of NSWE, Christian Purslow on their club media channels. Villa fans also highlighted that NSWE plan to stick around and have actioned plenty of plans regarding Villa Park and the HS2 expansion through Bodymoor Heath.
The latest chapter of the group's ownership will begin within the next few months - as Villa either prepare to build in the Premier League, or regroup their efforts for another Championship campaign.
Here's hoping it's the former.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--'I had actually forgotten' Lukas Jutkiewicz's take on claiming his 100th career goal

Birmingham City striker Lukas Jutkiewicz has admitted that he had actually forgotten his strike in the Blues ' 3-1 victory over Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Friday night was his 100th career goal .
With the game looking poised to end 2-1 in Pep Clotet 's side favour , Jutkiewicz showed tremendous strength and physicality to shrug off two Robins defenders before beautifully lifting the ball over Robins goalkeeper Daniel Bentley .
It was the perfect way to cap off a fantastic away-day showing from the Blues , who have now won three of their last five Championship matches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game , Jutkiewicz said : `` Strikers always count goals .
It is a nice milestone .
I had actually forgotten until I was reminded just after the game .
`` It is a nice milestone to get to and I hope I have got a few more in me . ''
It looked as though Clotet 's troops were going to be in for a long evening when Jamie Paterson handed the home side the lead inside the first minute , capatalising on an error from Blues star Marc Roberts .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ heads drop and worked their way back into the contest , from which moment they never looked back .
Speaking alongside Jutkiewicz at full-time , fellow striker and goal-scorer Scott Hogan , who has two in two games since arriving on loan from Aston Villa , said : `` You just think it is a backward , do n't you ?
But credit to the team , we have worked hard , kept going and we got the three points , that is what counts . ''
On Roberts ' error , Jutkiewicz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single one of us made a mistake out there tonight and unfortunately , his resulted in a goal .
But he is manly enough to step-up up to the plate and I thought he was magnificent after that . ''

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Birmingham City striker Lukas Jutkiewicz has admitted that he had actually forgotten his strike in the Blues' 3-1 victory over Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Friday night was his 100th career goal.
With the game looking poised to end 2-1 in Pep Clotet's side favour, Jutkiewicz showed tremendous strength and physicality to shrug off two Robins defenders before beautifully lifting the ball over Robins goalkeeper Daniel Bentley.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
It was the perfect way to cap off a fantastic away-day showing from the Blues, who have now won three of their last five Championship matches.
Speaking to Sky Sports immediately after the game, Jutkiewicz said: "Strikers always count goals. It is a nice milestone. I had actually forgotten until I was reminded just after the game.
"It is a nice milestone to get to and I hope I have got a few more in me."
It looked as though Clotet's troops were going to be in for a long evening when Jamie Paterson handed the home side the lead inside the first minute, capatalising on an error from Blues star Marc Roberts.
However, Birmingham refused to let their heads drop and worked their way back into the contest, from which moment they never looked back.
Speaking alongside Jutkiewicz at full-time, fellow striker and goal-scorer Scott Hogan, who has two in two games since arriving on loan from Aston Villa, said: "You just think it is a backward, don't you? But credit to the team, we have worked hard, kept going and we got the three points, that is what counts."
On Roberts' error, Jutkiewicz added: "Mistakes happen. Every single one of us made a mistake out there tonight and unfortunately, his resulted in a goal. But he is manly enough to step-up up to the plate and I thought he was magnificent after that."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--'Best game in a Blues shirt' - Player ratings as Birmingham City punish Bristol City

Birmingham City extended their unbeaten run to eight games with two contrasting but equally excellent halves at Ashton Gate .
Goals from Scott Hogan , an Andi Weimann own goal and Lukas Jutkiewicz gave them a superb three points .
Totally exposed for the opening goal .
But after that despite pressure he rarely looked too troubled .
Came for his crosses , munched the clock with his belly flops like an old pro .
Contributed well in attack during the first half but barely crossed the halfway line in the second and stuck manfully to his defensive task with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flank .
Very , very solid .
Recovered well after a first minute howler .
Seemed to win most balls that came into the Blues box as his team dropped deeper and deeper .
Vindicated his recall .
Famara pulled on to his side to try and rough up the Chelsea youngster .
He stood tall though , held his position and played an important part in a rearguard action .
Showed remarkable energy levels having played 120 minutes on Tuesday .
So committed to his work repelling wave after wave of attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last two .
Gave Jay Dasilva nightmares when he was able to run at him in space .
Once again played a part in a goal , with his 23rd minute shot .
Looked really dangerous in the first half , limited impact in the one way traffic of the second .
Covered miles and miles and miles .
Worked hard to support counter attacks but his evening was largely spent choking up the middle .
Led a magnificent counter attack for the equaliser and remained magnificent throughout .
His best game in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this season .
The rejuvenating powers of being 16-years-old meant Bellingham looked sharp , fresh and a constant threat to the Bristol City defence .
Only a block on the line prevented his fourth goal of the season .
Impressively diligent throughout .
Caught offside a few times – but no matter , at least Blues had someone making runs into dangerous areas .
His striker ’ s instinct had him in the right place for the equaliser .
Effectively a spectator in the second half .
When he wasn ’ t battling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his strike partner Hogan – without too much luck .
Virtually an auxiliary centre back during the second half .
Until the dying seconds when somehow he had the energy reserves for a sweet , sweet finish .
HARDING ( for Bela , 76 ) Performed his task well .
7

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Birmingham City extended their unbeaten run to eight games with two contrasting but equally excellent halves at Ashton Gate.
Goals from Scott Hogan, an Andi Weimann own goal and Lukas Jutkiewicz gave them a superb three points.
Here’s how Pep Clotet’s men rated.
STARTING FORMATION
4-4-2
CAMP 8
Totally exposed for the opening goal. But after that despite pressure he rarely looked too troubled. Came for his crosses, munched the clock with his belly flops like an old pro.
COLIN 8
Contributed well in attack during the first half but barely crossed the halfway line in the second and stuck manfully to his defensive task with most of the threat coming down his flank. Very, very solid.
ROBERTS 8
Recovered well after a first minute howler. Seemed to win most balls that came into the Blues box as his team dropped deeper and deeper. Vindicated his recall.
CLARKE-SALTER 8
Famara pulled on to his side to try and rough up the Chelsea youngster.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
He stood tall though, held his position and played an important part in a rearguard action.
PEDERSEN 8
Showed remarkable energy levels having played 120 minutes on Tuesday. So committed to his work repelling wave after wave of attack. Much more solid than in the last two.
BELA 8
Gave Jay Dasilva nightmares when he was able to run at him in space. Once again played a part in a goal, with his 23rd minute shot.
(Image: PA)
Looked really dangerous in the first half, limited impact in the one way traffic of the second.
SUNJIC 8
Covered miles and miles and miles. Worked hard to support counter attacks but his evening was largely spent choking up the middle.
GARDNER 9
Led a magnificent counter attack for the equaliser and remained magnificent throughout. His best game in a Blues shirt? Maybe. Certainly this season.
BELLINGHAM 8
The rejuvenating powers of being 16-years-old meant Bellingham looked sharp, fresh and a constant threat to the Bristol City defence. Only a block on the line prevented his fourth goal of the season. Impressively diligent throughout.
HOGAN 7.5
Caught offside a few times – but no matter, at least Blues had someone making runs into dangerous areas.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
His striker’s instinct had him in the right place for the equaliser. Effectively a spectator in the second half.
JUTKIEWICZ 8
When he wasn’t battling Williams and Baker he was looking for his strike partner Hogan – without too much luck.
(Image: PA)
Virtually an auxiliary centre back during the second half. Until the dying seconds when somehow he had the energy reserves for a sweet, sweet finish.
SUBSTITUTES
HARDING (for Bela, 76) Performed his task well. 7
DEAN (for Hogan, 82) N/A
BOYD-MUNCE (for Bellingham, 89) N/A
Not used: Trueman, Concannon, Montero, Keita
OPPOSITION
BRISTOL CITY (4-1-4-1): Bentley; Hunt (Wells 58), Williams, Baker, Dasilva (Benkovic 58); Smith; Eliasson, Paterson, Massengo (Nagy 66), Weimann; Diedhiou. Not used: Wollacott, Henriksen, O’Dowda, Rowe.
GOALS
BRISTOL CITY: Paterson (1)
BLUES: Hogan (23), Weimann (OG, 30), Jutkiewicz (90+2)
THE REF: Gavin Ward
NEXT UP: Barnsley (a), Tuesday, February 12, kick-off 7.45pm


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Bristol City 1 Birmingham City 3 LIVE Reaction: Lukas Jutkiewicz seals the deal after Scott Hogan eq

Bristol City 1 Birmingham City 3 LIVE Reaction: Lukas Jutkiewicz seals the deal after Scott Hogan equaliser

Scott Hogan ’ s second goal in two Birmingham City appearances set Blues on their way to a massively impressive 3-1 win at Bristol City .
Blues were incisive and enterprising in the first half , recovering from Jamie Paterson ’ s first minute opener to take a half time lead thanks to Hogan and an Andi Weimann own goal .
But the second half was a total rearguard action , spent almost entirely on the defensive until Lukas Jutkiewicz clipped his 11th of the season to extend Blues ’ unbeaten run to eight games .
Pep Clotet made a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ played for two hours in midweek .
One of those came at the heart of defence where Jake Clarke-Salter replaced Harlee Dean as Marc Roberts ’ partner.And it was Roberts whose forty-second howler gave the visitors a problem to overcome .
Bristol City heaved a throw-in into the Blues half , Roberts came across to cover and played the ball back to Camp - except Paterson intercepted and went round the goalkeeper for the softest of goals .
It might have been 2-0 five minutes later when Jack Hunt played a long pass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it down but blazed over .
Blues might have levelled in the 20th minute when Ivan Sunjic powered a cross right through the area to Jude Bellingham who side footed towards goal from inside the six yard box but hit a defender and not the back of the net .
Blues only had to wait three more minutes when Gary Gardner led a break through the middle , spread play wide right for Jeremie Bela .
The winger came inside , into the area and fired a shot straight at Daniel Bentley .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but the ball fell right to Hogan to prodded it in from two yards .
And it was 2-1 on the half hour when Lukas Jutkiewicz retrieved a cross and knocked it back to Bellingham who from near the touchline curled a cross around a defender .
Weimann was in front of his goalkeeper and glanced it into his own net .
The second half was one-way traffic .
Blues barely crossed the halfway line - producing a single Bela shot from distance .
By contrast the Robins spent the entire period pumping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blues retreated deeper and deeper as Famara Diedhiou came closest to equalising but instead blazed over from ten yards .
For all the pressure Blues ’ aerial defence held firm and sprung Jutkiewicz in added time .
Our Blues man Brian Dick will be in the press box at Ashton Gate tonight - and you will be able to follow all of the post-match reaction , right here .
So join us to make sure you do n't miss anything .

Scott Hogan’s second goal in two Birmingham City appearances set Blues on their way to a massively impressive 3-1 win at Bristol City.
Blues were incisive and enterprising in the first half, recovering from Jamie Paterson’s first minute opener to take a half time lead thanks to Hogan and an Andi Weimann own goal.
But the second half was a total rearguard action, spent almost entirely on the defensive until Lukas Jutkiewicz clipped his 11th of the season to extend Blues’ unbeaten run to eight games.
Pep Clotet made a host of changes to the side which played for two hours in midweek.
One of those came at the heart of defence where Jake Clarke-Salter replaced Harlee Dean as Marc Roberts’ partner.And it was Roberts whose forty-second howler gave the visitors a problem to overcome.
Bristol City heaved a throw-in into the Blues half, Roberts came across to cover and played the ball back to Camp - except Paterson intercepted and went round the goalkeeper for the softest of goals.
It might have been 2-0 five minutes later when Jack Hunt played a long pass over the top for Weimann.The Austrian chested it down but blazed over.
Blues might have levelled in the 20th minute when Ivan Sunjic powered a cross right through the area to Jude Bellingham who side footed towards goal from inside the six yard box but hit a defender and not the back of the net.
Blues only had to wait three more minutes when Gary Gardner led a break through the middle, spread play wide right for Jeremie Bela.
The winger came inside, into the area and fired a shot straight at Daniel Bentley.
The goalkeeper tried to beat it away but the ball fell right to Hogan to prodded it in from two yards.
And it was 2-1 on the half hour when Lukas Jutkiewicz retrieved a cross and knocked it back to Bellingham who from near the touchline curled a cross around a defender.
Weimann was in front of his goalkeeper and glanced it into his own net.
The second half was one-way traffic. Blues barely crossed the halfway line - producing a single Bela shot from distance.
By contrast the Robins spent the entire period pumping balls into the Birmingham City box.
Blues retreated deeper and deeper as Famara Diedhiou came closest to equalising but instead blazed over from ten yards.
For all the pressure Blues’ aerial defence held firm and sprung Jutkiewicz in added time.
Our Blues man Brian Dick will be in the press box at Ashton Gate tonight - and you will be able to follow all of the post-match reaction, right here.
So join us to make sure you don't miss anything.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Eamonn Holmes defends 'tasteless' jokes he made after Phillip Schofield came out as gay

Eamonn Holmes has defended the `` tacky '' joke he cracked after Philip Schofield announced he was gay .
Some viewers were furious that the Irish TV presenter `` ruined '' the heartfelt moment Schofe plucked up the courage to tell the nation he was gay .
But Eamonn has stuck by his gag - saying it was `` a laugh to break the tension '' .
Phillip , aged 57 , made the announcment in an Instagram post- and then appeared on This Morning to talk about the shock announcement .
After an emotional chat with his co presenter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joined by This Morning 's regular Friday presenters , Eamonn and his wife Ruth Langsford .
During the exchange , Eamonn sparked fury among some viewers by saying : `` I am disappointed in a couple of ways , first of all , I thought 'big announcement from Phillip ' , I thought you were going to come in and announce you had resigned and I would take your job , so that was n't to be . ''
He then went on to make a second joke about Phillip sitting in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why Holly 's husband and Philip 's wife never had `` a problem '' with that .
Immediately after the awkward exchange , TV viewers let rip on social media and criticised Eamonn for his tasteless gags .
One wrote on Twitter : `` Eamonn Holmes being inappropriate as per today , his hot tub comment was gross .
Basically insinuated Steph has always known Phil was gay and that 's why she let him be friends with Holly ... '' While another fumed : `` '' What unnecessary comments about a hot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eamonn took to Twitter on Friday evening to defend his joke , posting a picture of himself and Schofe embracing .
He posted : `` A picture paints a thousand words .
This is a man who was in pain , who today confided in Ruth and I and who knows we stand in support of him , his family and his sexuality .
`` Also , unlike some , he appreciated a laugh to break the tension .
@ Schofe hoping you find happiness . ''

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Eamonn Holmes has defended the "tacky" joke he cracked after Philip Schofield announced he was gay.
Some viewers were furious that the Irish TV presenter "ruined" the heartfelt moment Schofe plucked up the courage to tell the nation he was gay.
But Eamonn has stuck by his gag - saying it was "a laugh to break the tension".
Phillip, aged 57, made the announcment in an Instagram post- and then appeared on This Morning to talk about the shock announcement.
(Image: ITV)
After an emotional chat with his co presenter Holly Willoughby, the pair were then joined by This Morning's regular Friday presenters, Eamonn and his wife Ruth Langsford.
During the exchange, Eamonn sparked fury among some viewers by saying: "I am disappointed in a couple of ways, first of all, I thought 'big announcement from Phillip', I thought you were going to come in and announce you had resigned and I would take your job, so that wasn't to be."
He then went on to make a second joke about Phillip sitting in a hot tub with Holly and always wondering why Holly's husband and Philip's wife never had "a problem" with that.
Immediately after the awkward exchange, TV viewers let rip on social media and criticised Eamonn for his tasteless gags.
One wrote on Twitter: "Eamonn Holmes being inappropriate as per today, his hot tub comment was gross. Basically insinuated Steph has always known Phil was gay and that's why she let him be friends with Holly..."
While another fumed: ""What unnecessary comments about a hot tub from Eamonn!!"
But Eamonn took to Twitter on Friday evening to defend his joke, posting a picture of himself and Schofe embracing.
He posted: "A picture paints a thousand words. This is a man who was in pain , who today confided in Ruth and I and who knows we stand in support of him, his family and his sexuality.
"Also, unlike some, he appreciated a laugh to break the tension. @Schofe hoping you find happiness."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--'He spent more time in Miami!' - Jermaine Jenas and Gabby Agbonlahor air views on the winter break

Former Aston Villa forward Gabby Agbonlahor appeared on BBC Five Live Sport 's Friday Football Social .
With Darren Fletcher and Jermaine Jenas , Gabby discussed the Premier League 's winter break on the radio show .
It 's a new addition to the Premier League - and Jenas chipped in before passing the question to Gabby : '' I was envious of European leagues .
Our schedule got ridiculous at Christmas time , and they were off with their families . ''
said Jenas .
Time off ?
Gabby believes players will still be working no matter what .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if you ask them when they 're off , they will still say they 've done a run every morning .
The players are still ticking over and will be strapped up with monitors and a GPS .
They are still doing fitness work anyway . ''
said Villa 's former number 11 .
`` They are n't doing no cardio work at all - so they are fine in that respect .
Still , the timing is off..
If I had my way I 'd do it at Christmas . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the break - personal space .
`` Do n't you think that the players need a break away from each other ?
They need a break - they see each other every day .
Five to seven days off , keep your fitness up away from the players .
Come back refreshed . ''
Still , Gabby 's own 'resting ' antics were picked up on by his former team-mate .
`` He did it every week anyway !
He spent more time in Miami than Birmingham , '' laughed Jenas .

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Former Aston Villa forward Gabby Agbonlahor appeared on BBC Five Live Sport's Friday Football Social.
With Darren Fletcher and Jermaine Jenas, Gabby discussed the Premier League's winter break on the radio show.
It's a new addition to the Premier League - and Jenas chipped in before passing the question to Gabby:
"I was envious of European leagues. Our schedule got ridiculous at Christmas time, and they were off with their families." said Jenas.
Time off? Gabby believes players will still be working no matter what.
"It's good for the players, if you ask them when they're off, they will still say they've done a run every morning. The players are still ticking over and will be strapped up with monitors and a GPS. They are still doing fitness work anyway." said Villa's former number 11.
"They aren't doing no cardio work at all - so they are fine in that respect. Still, the timing is off.. If I had my way I'd do it at Christmas."
Agbonlahor picked up on another aspect of the break - personal space.
"Don't you think that the players need a break away from each other? They need a break - they see each other every day. Five to seven days off, keep your fitness up away from the players. Come back refreshed."
Still, Gabby's own 'resting' antics were picked up on by his former team-mate.
"He did it every week anyway! He spent more time in Miami than Birmingham," laughed Jenas.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Northfield school put on lock down after reports of 'man with a knife' standing outside

A Birmingham school was put on lock down after reports a man armed with a knife was waiting outside .
Teachers at Shenley Academy in Northfield swung into action on Friday afternoon to protect pupils .
Police were called to the secondary school in Shenley Lane just before 3pm on Friday , February 7 .
It followed reports that a man had allegedly been seen carrying a knife outside .
The school immediately went into lock down - meaning nobody was allowed to enter or leave the premises during this time .
Teachers , pupils , visitors and parents were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Officers carried out an extensive search of the area , but said nobody was found to be carrying a knife .
The lock down only lasted 10 minutes and ended with no injuries reported .
West Midlands Police said : `` We were called to Shenley Academy on Shenley Lane just before 3pm this afternoon ( Friday ) after receiving a report of a man allegedly being seen with a knife outside .
`` We carried out an extensive search of the area but nobody was found to be in possession of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information is asked to contact us . ''
BirminghamLive has attempted to reach Shenley Academy for comment .

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A Birmingham school was put on lock down after reports a man armed with a knife was waiting outside.
Teachers at Shenley Academy in Northfield swung into action on Friday afternoon to protect pupils.
Police were called to the secondary school in Shenley Lane just before 3pm on Friday, February 7. It followed reports that a man had allegedly been seen carrying a knife outside.
The school immediately went into lock down - meaning nobody was allowed to enter or leave the premises during this time. Teachers, pupils, visitors and parents were all affected by the dramatic measures.
Officers carried out an extensive search of the area, but said nobody was found to be carrying a knife. The lock down only lasted 10 minutes and ended with no injuries reported.
West Midlands Police said: "We were called to Shenley Academy on Shenley Lane just before 3pm this afternoon (Friday) after receiving a report of a man allegedly being seen with a knife outside.
"We carried out an extensive search of the area but nobody was found to be in possession of a knife. Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact us."
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BirminghamLive has attempted to reach Shenley Academy for comment.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Tributes to 'devoted family man' Leonard Lowe killed on M5 in Sandwell

A man who was tragically killed in a motorway crash this morning has been named at Leonard Lowe .
The 59-year-old , known as Terry , was hit by a vehicle on the northbound carriageway of the M5 - near the Newton Road bridge - at around 7am ( Feb 7 ) .
The motorway was closed for seven hours as emergency services were called to the scene .
Police are not treating the death of the family man from Wednesbury as suspicious .
The force has launched an appeal as the vehicle involved in the horrific crash is yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Midlands Police said : `` It ’ s unclear if the driver would be aware of what happened and we ’ re asking for anyone who was travelling on the motorway , near to the M6 split , and has any information or dash cam footage to contact us . ''
Issuing a heartbreaking tribute , Leonard 's devastated family said : `` Terry was the most fun-loving and caring person , a devoted family man and the best husband , father and grandad we could wish for .
`` We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be empty without him .
We ask that our privacy is respected at this difficult time . ''
Sergeant Alan Hands , from the West Midlands Police serious collision investigation unit , said : `` Our thoughts are with the family of Mr Lowe at this terrible time .
`` We believe it is likely to be a large vehicle involved in the collision and it ’ s unclear if the driver knew what happened .
`` We need to identify the driver , vehicle , and anyone who saw what happened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circumstances . ''
Contact investigators at FL_COLLISION_INVEST @ west-midlands.pnn.police.uk , via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight , or call 101 .
Quote log 455 of 7/2/20 .

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A man who was tragically killed in a motorway crash this morning has been named at Leonard Lowe.
The 59-year-old, known as Terry, was hit by a vehicle on the northbound carriageway of the M5 - near the Newton Road bridge - at around 7am (Feb 7).
The motorway was closed for seven hours as emergency services were called to the scene.
Police are not treating the death of the family man from Wednesbury as suspicious.
The force has launched an appeal as the vehicle involved in the horrific crash is yet to be identified.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "It’s unclear if the driver would be aware of what happened and we’re asking for anyone who was travelling on the motorway, near to the M6 split, and has any information or dash cam footage to contact us."
Issuing a heartbreaking tribute, Leonard's devastated family said: "Terry was the most fun-loving and caring person, a devoted family man and the best husband, father and grandad we could wish for.
"We are devastated by his loss, our lives will be empty without him. We ask that our privacy is respected at this difficult time."
Sergeant Alan Hands, from the West Midlands Police serious collision investigation unit, said: "Our thoughts are with the family of Mr Lowe at this terrible time.
"We believe it is likely to be a large vehicle involved in the collision and it’s unclear if the driver knew what happened.
"We need to identify the driver, vehicle, and anyone who saw what happened to help us to establish the full circumstances."
Contact investigators at FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk, via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101. Quote log 455 of 7/2/20.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--You can now take Alpacas for a walk at Sandwell Valley Country Park

Alpaca walks and afternoon tea are Instagram-worthy activities in their own right - but you 'll soon be able to do both at Sandwell Valley Country Park .
People will be able to get closer to the cute creatures than ever before at the West Bromwich beauty spot throughout March and April .
The 30 minute experience with the fluffy duo includes a welcome talk and will be followed by free entry to Sandwell Park Farm and afternoon tea .
Having worked up an appetite , visitors will be directed to the farm 's tea room , where a feast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sandwiches and unlimited tea and coffee will be served up .
Sunish Patel , business manager for Sandwell Valley , said the new venture was `` unique '' to the area , adding : `` We have a nicely laid out route and our two alpacas have been trained to get them used to the environment and surroundings .
`` It 's a chance for people to explore the area around the country park in a relaxed environment , get a bit more understanding about alpacas and do something different . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ children over the age of 11 - will take place on Wednesdays and cost £25 per person , with a maximum of two people per booking .
Available dates are March 4 , 11 , 18 and 25 and April 1 , 8 , 15 and 22 .
Payments are required to reserve your place – and must be done in person at the park farm in Salters Lane .
For more information , or to book and arrange payment , call 0121 569 3070 .

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Alpaca walks and afternoon tea are Instagram-worthy activities in their own right - but you'll soon be able to do both at Sandwell Valley Country Park.
People will be able to get closer to the cute creatures than ever before at the West Bromwich beauty spot throughout March and April.
The 30 minute experience with the fluffy duo includes a welcome talk and will be followed by free entry to Sandwell Park Farm and afternoon tea.
Having worked up an appetite, visitors will be directed to the farm's tea room, where a feast of scones, jam, cream cakes, sandwiches and unlimited tea and coffee will be served up.
(Image: Sandwell Valley Country Park)
Sunish Patel, business manager for Sandwell Valley, said the new venture was "unique" to the area, adding: "We have a nicely laid out route and our two alpacas have been trained to get them used to the environment and surroundings.
"It's a chance for people to explore the area around the country park in a relaxed environment, get a bit more understanding about alpacas and do something different."
The walks - suitable for adults and children over the age of 11 - will take place on Wednesdays and cost £25 per person, with a maximum of two people per booking.
Available dates are March 4, 11, 18 and 25 and April 1, 8, 15 and 22.
Payments are required to reserve your place – and must be done in person at the park farm in Salters Lane.
For more information, or to book and arrange payment, call 0121 569 3070.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Aston Villa winger changes position ahead of pivotal summer decision

Charlton Athletic boss Lee Bowyer hopes that Aston Villa 's Andre Green can fill the void left by the departure of Karlan Grant - by converting the winger into a centre-forward .
Green - currently on loan to the Addicks - is aiming to impress ahead of a pivotal summer .
His contract is set to expire at Villa at the end of the season and a decision will be made as to whether he is kept on - or released .
Villa do hold an extension option , but could seek to extend Green 's contract regardless of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half of the season on loan at Preston North-End , but could n't force his way into the team despite a decent end to Villa 's promotion season the spring before the move .
Green was called back to Villa over Christmas and sent out to Charlton , a move he is currently enjoying .
He 's played 4 games for the Addicks and has scored 2 league goals at a clip of 0.70 per 90 minutes .
It 's an impressive start to his spell in London , and Green seems to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Charlton - who wanted the winger in the summer .
But not as winger .
Charlton have enjoyed success moving natural wingers to centre-forward postions .
Jonathan Leko and Karlan Grant both played on the wing before being moved into a central position .
Bowyer wishes to apply the same thinking to Andre Green , following the departure of both Leko and Grant .
`` We tried to bring Green in in the summer , I thought he could replace Karlan for me .
He ’ s quick , he can finish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situations , '' said Bowyer speaking to This Is Local London .
“ We did the same with Karlan and Jonathan Leko , both wingers , we moved them up top and they score goals , ” Bowyer said of Green who has two goals in four appearances .
“ Andre does the same , but we have to work on his hold up play , that ’ s his weakness , it was Karlan ’ s too .
“ His movement is very good and he ’ s settled into that role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quicker , so I ’ m happy with him !
” Green has n't played many minutes as a striker for Villa .
For Dean Smith and Steve Bruce , the winger was used to stretch the pitch , drag full-backs wide and chip in with goals and assists .
For Charlton , Green has been used as part of a front duo - lining up alongside Lyle Taylor .
He 's scored two goals so far from a central position , so why is it working for Green at Charlton ?
Lee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a winger that is transferring well to a striking role .
“ He ’ s a good winger , that ’ s why if we get him in one-v-one situations against the centre half it ’ ll be good for us .
It ’ s easier than against a full back , centre backs aren ’ t as quick or mobile as a full back , and he goes past them easily !
“ There ’ ll be times we ask him to play on the wing and when we do I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do the right things.
” If Green can succeed up front and on the wing for Charlton , he 'll certainly catch the eye of Dean Smith - who could find a role for him next season .

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Charlton Athletic boss Lee Bowyer hopes that Aston Villa's Andre Green can fill the void left by the departure of Karlan Grant - by converting the winger into a centre-forward.
Green - currently on loan to the Addicks - is aiming to impress ahead of a pivotal summer. His contract is set to expire at Villa at the end of the season and a decision will be made as to whether he is kept on - or released. Villa do hold an extension option, but could seek to extend Green's contract regardless of that.
The young winger spent the first half of the season on loan at Preston North-End, but couldn't force his way into the team despite a decent end to Villa's promotion season the spring before the move. Green was called back to Villa over Christmas and sent out to Charlton, a move he is currently enjoying.
He's played 4 games for the Addicks and has scored 2 league goals at a clip of 0.70 per 90 minutes. It's an impressive start to his spell in London, and Green seems to be on the right path under Bowyer at Charlton - who wanted the winger in the summer.
But not as winger.
Charlton have enjoyed success moving natural wingers to centre-forward postions. Jonathan Leko and Karlan Grant both played on the wing before being moved into a central position. Bowyer wishes to apply the same thinking to Andre Green, following the departure of both Leko and Grant.
"We tried to bring Green in in the summer, I thought he could replace Karlan for me. He’s quick, he can finish, he’s good in one-v-one situations," said Bowyer speaking to This Is Local London.
“We did the same with Karlan and Jonathan Leko, both wingers, we moved them up top and they score goals,” Bowyer said of Green who has two goals in four appearances.
“Andre does the same, but we have to work on his hold up play, that’s his weakness, it was Karlan’s too.
“His movement is very good and he’s settled into that role better than I thought he would and quicker, so I’m happy with him!”
Green hasn't played many minutes as a striker for Villa. For Dean Smith and Steve Bruce, the winger was used to stretch the pitch, drag full-backs wide and chip in with goals and assists. For Charlton, Green has been used as part of a front duo - lining up alongside Lyle Taylor.
He's scored two goals so far from a central position, so why is it working for Green at Charlton?
Lee Bowyer believes it's his natural ability as a winger that is transferring well to a striking role.
“He’s a good winger, that’s why if we get him in one-v-one situations against the centre half it’ll be good for us. It’s easier than against a full back, centre backs aren’t as quick or mobile as a full back, and he goes past them easily!
“There’ll be times we ask him to play on the wing and when we do I’ve no doubt he’ll do the right things.”
If Green can succeed up front and on the wing for Charlton, he'll certainly catch the eye of Dean Smith - who could find a role for him next season.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Major disruption on trains between Birmingham New Street and London due to landslide

There is major disruption on the West Coast Mainline between Birmingham and London Euston tonight ( Feb 7 ) .
A landslip on another section of the line is causing delays and cancellations .
The affected section is between Coventry and Rugby and is due to a landslide near Northampton on Friday afternoon .
At first , only London Northwest Railway services were affected , but by tea-time , all other trains which use the line were also hit .
Passengers are being warned the disruption could last all evening .
At one point , there were no services at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coventry .
But some trains are now running again .
Network Rail has tweeted pictures and details of the incident .
These show a mound of earth immediately next to the tracks has become dislodged and is in danger of spilling onto the line .
The tweet explains : `` Passengers are warned of delays between Coventry and Rugby due to a landslip .
The railway is blocked while our engineers assess the damage . ''
Network Rail said there were no services running between Birmingham New Street and Northampton .
They posted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customers : Road transport is being sourced to run between Northampton and Birmingham New Street .
Chiltern Railway was accepting Avanti and West Midlands Railway tickets , making its services extra busy from Snow Hill and Moor Street Stations tonight .
`` You may use your ticket on on National Express West Midlands Buses between Birmingham New Street and Coventry . ''
Confused passengers have taken to Twitter to try and find out what is happening .
One user was Chloe who posted : `` I ’ m on the 16:14 train that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coventry trying to get to Northampton , any alternatives/updates ?
” The train operator said : “ When we have more info , we ’ ll let you know .
”

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There is major disruption on the West Coast Mainline between Birmingham and London Euston tonight (Feb 7).
A landslip on another section of the line is causing delays and cancellations.
The affected section is between Coventry and Rugby and is due to a landslide near Northampton on Friday afternoon.
At first, only London Northwest Railway services were affected, but by tea-time, all other trains which use the line were also hit. Passengers are being warned the disruption could last all evening.
At one point, there were no services at all running between Birmingham New Street and Coventry. But some trains are now running again.
Network Rail has tweeted pictures and details of the incident. These show a mound of earth immediately next to the tracks has become dislodged and is in danger of spilling onto the line.
The tweet explains: "Passengers are warned of delays between Coventry and Rugby due to a landslip. The railway is blocked while our engineers assess the damage."
Network Rail said there were no services running between Birmingham New Street and Northampton.
They posted: "Coventry - London Northwestern Railway customers: Road transport is being sourced to run between Northampton and Birmingham New Street.
Chiltern Railway was accepting Avanti and West Midlands Railway tickets, making its services extra busy from Snow Hill and Moor Street Stations tonight.
"You may use your ticket on on National Express West Midlands Buses between Birmingham New Street and Coventry."
Confused passengers have taken to Twitter to try and find out what is happening.
One user was Chloe who posted: "I’m on the 16:14 train that left bham new street and stuck in Coventry trying to get to Northampton, any alternatives/updates?”
The train operator said: “When we have more info, we’ll let you know.”


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Scott Hogan returns as Birmingham City make six changes at Bristol City

Birmingham City have made six changes for tonight ’ s Championship clash with Bristol City .
Head coach Pep Clotet @ @ @ @ @ the team which played 120 minutes and came through their FA Cup tie with Coventry @ @ @ @ @ Lee Camp starts in goal , Maxime Colin and Jake Clarke-Salter return in the back @ @ @ @ @ and Kristian Pedersen .
Club captain – and midweek hero – Harlee Dean is on @ @ @ @ @ and Jeremie Bela start on the wings , flanking Gary Gardner and Ivan Sunjic .
@ @ @ @ @ the starting line-up , alongside Lukas Jutkiewicz , having not been eligible against the Sky @ @

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Birmingham City have made six changes for tonight’s Championship clash with Bristol City.
Head coach Pep Clotet has tried to freshen up the team which played 120 minutes and came through their FA Cup tie with Coventry City on Tuesday night.
Lee Camp starts in goal, Maxime Colin and Jake Clarke-Salter return in the back four – alongside Marc Roberts and Kristian Pedersen. Club captain – and midweek hero – Harlee Dean is on the bench.
Jude Bellingham and Jeremie Bela start on the wings, flanking Gary Gardner and Ivan Sunjic. Scott Hogan is back in the starting line-up, alongside Lukas Jutkiewicz, having not been eligible against the Sky Blues.
BLUES (4-4-2): Camp; Colin, Roberts, Clarke-Salter, Pedersen; Bela, Gardner, Sunjic, Bellingham; Hogan, Jutkiewicz. Subs: Trueman, Harding, Dean, Boyd-Munce, Concannon, Montero, Keita


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Road test: Volvo XC90 T5 R-Design

Road test: Volvo XC90 T5 R-Design

There were years when Volvo could perhaps have been accused of wandering in the wilderness but for some time now the Swedish car maker has been well and truly back on track .
A strong argument could be made for Volvo ’ s reinvention dating back to the arrival of the original XC90 .
In the way that the TT helped to reinvigorate the Audi brand the same could be said of the XC90 and Volvo .
That is quite some time ago - the XC90 burst on to the scene in 2002 and was universally well received .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customary refreshes an all-new model emerged in 2014 .
It ’ s hard to imagine the current model has been around in some shape or form for more than five years as it still looks remarkably new , though it retains its modernity and freshness thanks to a makeover in 2019 .
That has helped it stay in touch in a competitive pack which also includes the Audi Q7 , BMW X5 and Land Rover Discovery .
It also has cars such as the Skoda Kodiaq snapping at its heels .
As a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven people in relative comfort it still ticks a lot of boxes with much to recommend it and little to fault .
When it comes to midlife makeovers these days it ’ s a lot about keeping pace with technology - both in entertainment and connectivity terms and safety features .
Volvo is a firm that has always had an enviable reputation for safety and some of the latest high-tech features include City Safety - which warns of a possible impending collision with a pedestrian , cyclist or large animal and brakes the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Oncoming Lane Mitigation to automatically bring you back into your lane if you drift and Cross traffic Alert which warns you of moving cars as you back out of parking spaces .
The latest XC90 seems to have retained all the strengths of the original yet moved the design on with striking Scandinavian design lines .
While it doesn ’ t look oversized it is actually considerably bigger than the original version .
Interior space is both abundant and well used , with three rows of seats where even the third row @ @ @ @ @ @ @ space is impressive too , even with all seven seats in use .
Flip the rearmost row down and it becomes cavernous , while with all the seats folded it offers a gigantic amount of carrying capacity .
During the wilderness years Volvo interiors lost something of their premium look and feel but the current models are right back there when it comes to giving Audi , BMW and Mercedes a run for their money .
Volvo used to be famed for its ‘ floating ’ centre console - now it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feature up front .
It controls pretty much everything and is splendidly easy to get on with from a user ’ s perspective .
Engine-wise there is a choice of two 2.0-litre petrol engines ( T5 and T6 delivering 250bhp and 310bhp ) , there ’ s also a mild-hybrid B5 diesel , which combines a 235bhp diesel unit with an electric motor .
A petrol mild hybrid option has recently come onstream .
There is also as a plug-in hybrid - the T8 .
This was a high-spec R-Design model which aims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with leather upholstery , electrically adjustable sporting front seats with memory function , “ metal mesh ” detailing on the dashboard , aluminium pedals and plenty more besides .
The 2.0-litre petrol engine might be the lower powered petrol option but it is both smooth and swift , taking this big beast from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds .
A wonderfully refined ride and surprisingly sharp handling for a high-riding SUV also combine to ensure the XC90 offers a thoroughly decent drive overall .
The driving experience can also be tailored using the various @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dynamic .
Mechanical : 250bhp , 1,969cc , 4cyl petrol engine driving all wheels via eight speed automatic gearbox

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There were years when Volvo could perhaps have been accused of wandering in the wilderness but for some time now the Swedish car maker has been well and truly back on track.
A strong argument could be made for Volvo’s reinvention dating back to the arrival of the original XC90.
In the way that the TT helped to reinvigorate the Audi brand the same could be said of the XC90 and Volvo.
That is quite some time ago - the XC90 burst on to the scene in 2002 and was universally well received.
It enjoyed a lengthy lifespan and after the customary refreshes an all-new model emerged in 2014.
It’s hard to imagine the current model has been around in some shape or form for more than five years as it still looks remarkably new, though it retains its modernity and freshness thanks to a makeover in 2019.
That has helped it stay in touch in a competitive pack which also includes the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Land Rover Discovery. It also has cars such as the Skoda Kodiaq snapping at its heels.
As a family-friendly SUV with the capacity to transport seven people in relative comfort it still ticks a lot of boxes with much to recommend it and little to fault.
When it comes to midlife makeovers these days it’s a lot about keeping pace with technology - both in entertainment and connectivity terms and safety features.
Volvo is a firm that has always had an enviable reputation for safety and some of the latest high-tech features include City Safety - which warns of a possible impending collision with a pedestrian, cyclist or large animal and brakes the car if you don’t react, Oncoming Lane Mitigation to automatically bring you back into your lane if you drift and Cross traffic Alert which warns you of moving cars as you back out of parking spaces.
The latest XC90 seems to have retained all the strengths of the original yet moved the design on with striking Scandinavian design lines.
While it doesn’t look oversized it is actually considerably bigger than the original version.
Interior space is both abundant and well used, with three rows of seats where even the third row is capable of accommodating adults.
Boot space is impressive too, even with all seven seats in use. Flip the rearmost row down and it becomes cavernous, while with all the seats folded it offers a gigantic amount of carrying capacity.
During the wilderness years Volvo interiors lost something of their premium look and feel but the current models are right back there when it comes to giving Audi, BMW and Mercedes a run for their money.
Volvo used to be famed for its ‘floating’ centre console - now it’s the tablet-style touchscreen which is the dominant feature up front.
It controls pretty much everything and is splendidly easy to get on with from a user’s perspective.
Engine-wise there is a choice of two 2.0-litre petrol engines (T5 and T6 delivering 250bhp and 310bhp), there’s also a mild-hybrid B5 diesel, which combines a 235bhp diesel unit with an electric motor. A petrol mild hybrid option has recently come onstream. There is also as a plug-in hybrid - the T8.
This was a high-spec R-Design model which aims to deliver a sporty feel and comes with leather upholstery, electrically adjustable sporting front seats with memory function, “metal mesh” detailing on the dashboard, aluminium pedals and plenty more besides.
The 2.0-litre petrol engine might be the lower powered petrol option but it is both smooth and swift, taking this big beast from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds.
A wonderfully refined ride and surprisingly sharp handling for a high-riding SUV also combine to ensure the XC90 offers a thoroughly decent drive overall.
The driving experience can also be tailored using the various drive modes - eco, comfort and dynamic.
FAST FACTS
Volvo XC90 T5 R-Design
Price: £55,535
Mechanical: 250bhp, 1,969cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving all wheels via eight speed automatic gearbox
Max speed: 134 mph
0-62mph: 7.5 secs
Combined mpg: 35.8
Insurance group: 38
CO2 emissions: 184g/km
BiK rating: 37%
Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles