birminghammail--2020-05-03--Primary schools 'to reopen first under lockdown easing plans'

Primary schools are set to open first as the Government draws up a secret `` roadmap '' to ease Britain out of lockdown .
The opening of primary schools is expected expected to be on the agenda when Boris Johnson unveils his timetable for lifting the restrictions , next week , according to The Sun .
The PM has been encouraged by evidence that suggests under 13 's are much less vulnerable to coronavirus infection than adults .
If youngsters were back in class , it would not only get them learning again but free up parents to return to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Gove has taken charge of a secret operation to get Britain geared up for a return to normal life .
He is running five separate teams of officials drawing up plans for how to end the lockdown .
They have gathered evidence for an exit strategy covering schools , transport , public spaces , recreation and workplaces .
The schools working group has held a series of meetings with scientific advisers to devise a safe plan fo re-starting lessons .
Mr Johnson told The Sun on Sunday : “ One of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as we can is get certainly primary schools back .
“ It ’ s not going to be easy but that ’ s where we want to go .
It ’ s about working out a way to do it.
” On Thursday , he will set out how he plans to “ un-lock ” Britain after six weeks at a standstill .
Amid signs of restlessness , he is quick to point out it must be done slowly and carefully to avoid a second sike of deadly infections .
Regions where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hot zones ” and subject to tighter restrictions .
Towns and cities where Covid-19 is on the decline could get greater freedoms .
Officials will monitor the impact on specific areas and introduce local lockdowns if minsters approve the idea .
Transport is causing the biggest headache as a return to work risks leading to crowded trains and buses .
Firms will be asked to limit the number of workers brought in to offices or factories — or to stagger starting times .
Mr Johnson added : “ I said we would turn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe we are definitely on course to do that .
“ We ’ re past the peak now and we ’ ll be in to the second phase very soon and we ’ ll just have to work very hard to get every step right .
I think we can .
“ I ’ m going to try to build the maximum possible support — governed by the science — for the un-lockdown , the beginning of how we come out .
“ I ’ ve never seen a national resolve like we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Everybody knew what needed to be done — and it was a fantastic effort .
”

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Primary schools are set to open first as the Government draws up a secret "roadmap" to ease Britain out of lockdown.
The opening of primary schools is expected expected to be on the agenda when Boris Johnson unveils his timetable for lifting the restrictions, next week, according to The Sun.
The PM has been encouraged by evidence that suggests under 13's are much less vulnerable to coronavirus infection than adults.
If youngsters were back in class, it would not only get them learning again but free up parents to return to work where possible.
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has taken charge of a secret operation to get Britain geared up for a return to normal life.
(Image: PA)
He is running five separate teams of officials drawing up plans for how to end the lockdown.
They have gathered evidence for an exit strategy covering schools, transport, public spaces, recreation and workplaces.
The schools working group has held a series of meetings with scientific advisers to devise a safe plan fo re-starting lessons.
Mr Johnson told The Sun on Sunday: “One of the things we want to do as fast as we can is get certainly primary schools back.
“It’s not going to be easy but that’s where we want to go. It’s about working out a way to do it.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
On Thursday, he will set out how he plans to “un-lock” Britain after six weeks at a standstill.
Amid signs of restlessness, he is quick to point out it must be done slowly and carefully to avoid a second sike of deadly infections.
Regions where the virus is rampant could be declared “hot zones” and subject to tighter restrictions.
Towns and cities where Covid-19 is on the decline could get greater freedoms.
Officials will monitor the impact on specific areas and introduce local lockdowns if minsters approve the idea.
Transport is causing the biggest headache as a return to work risks leading to crowded trains and buses.
Firms will be asked to limit the number of workers brought in to offices or factories — or to stagger starting times.
Mr Johnson added: “I said we would turn the tide within three months and I believe we are definitely on course to do that.
“We’re past the peak now and we’ll be in to the second phase very soon and we’ll just have to work very hard to get every step right. I think we can.
“I’m going to try to build the maximum possible support — governed by the science — for the un-lockdown, the beginning of how we come out.
“I’ve never seen a national resolve like we have in the past couple of months. Everybody knew what needed to be done — and it was a fantastic effort.”


birminghammail--2020-05-03--London driver 'visiting friends' in West Midlands stopped by cops

This is the moment a London driver was stopped by police en-route to visit friends as the country remained in a grip of the deadly coronavirus .
Though the virus is now 'past its peak ' , hundreds of lives are being claimed every day by Covid-19 - with the public still ordered to stay home .
Under the lockdown rules , in order to save lives and take the pressure of the already-stretched NHS , we must only make essential journeys for food or medicine .
But one ignorant driver seemed to forget the life-saving rules when setting off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to meet with pals in the West Midlands .
The motorist , with passengers inside the car too , was rumbled in the early hours of Sunday morning ( May 3 ) driving into the Staffordshire countryside .
Motorway police , tasked with enforcing social distancing restrictions , stopped the silver Toyota Corolla and discovered occupants were from the London area .
They had travelled some two to three hours to reach their destination - a move strictly against the rules as the public is warned against non-essential travel and contact .
When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they had journeyed to 'visit friends ' and all occupants were reported under the Covid-19 regulations .
They were sent back home to the capital city as the driver was also handed a fixed penalty notice .
Officers at the Central Motorway Policing Group tweeted an image of the vehicle in question , with an unmarked police car on blue lights close behind .
The team wrote : `` Vehicle stopped early hours of the morning driving in the Staffordshire countryside .
`` Vehicle and occupant 's from the London area stating they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported under the CoVid Regulations as this is not essential travel and sent home . ''
In line with the landmark Government announcement on March 23 , people are still warned not to meet with friends or anyone outside their household .
Essential journeys include shopping for vital medicine and groceries , tending to a vulnerable person and exercising once a day .

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This is the moment a London driver was stopped by police en-route to visit friends as the country remained in a grip of the deadly coronavirus.
Though the virus is now 'past its peak', hundreds of lives are being claimed every day by Covid-19 - with the public still ordered to stay home.
Under the lockdown rules, in order to save lives and take the pressure of the already-stretched NHS, we must only make essential journeys for food or medicine.
But one ignorant driver seemed to forget the life-saving rules when setting off for a 150 mile trip - just to meet with pals in the West Midlands.
The motorist, with passengers inside the car too, was rumbled in the early hours of Sunday morning (May 3) driving into the Staffordshire countryside.
Motorway police, tasked with enforcing social distancing restrictions, stopped the silver Toyota Corolla and discovered occupants were from the London area.
They had travelled some two to three hours to reach their destination - a move strictly against the rules as the public is warned against non-essential travel and contact.
When quizzed by officers, the driver admitted they had journeyed to 'visit friends' and all occupants were reported under the Covid-19 regulations.
They were sent back home to the capital city as the driver was also handed a fixed penalty notice.
Officers at the Central Motorway Policing Group tweeted an image of the vehicle in question, with an unmarked police car on blue lights close behind.
The team wrote: "Vehicle stopped early hours of the morning driving in the Staffordshire countryside.
"Vehicle and occupant's from the London area stating they were visiting friends, all have been reported under the CoVid Regulations as this is not essential travel and sent home."
In line with the landmark Government announcement on March 23, people are still warned not to meet with friends or anyone outside their household.
Essential journeys include shopping for vital medicine and groceries, tending to a vulnerable person and exercising once a day.


birminghammail--2020-05-03--Juan Pablo Angel reveals trauma after sealing Aston Villa switch

Aston Villa hero Juan Pablo Angel has revealed how his wife and new-born baby were rushed into hospital just days after arriving in Birmingham .
Then-boss John Gregory shelled-out a club-record £9.5million to land the Colombian in January 2001 and , for the first time , Angel has explained just how difficult a time it was .
Angel , who lived in The Belfry after signing , told The Athletic : `` When we came over we didn ’ t have anything .
`` My wife , Maria Paula , was extremely ill and at risk of dying .
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hospital , too .
`` Also , we couldn ’ t speak the language , we had nobody who could help us .
`` The first few months were extremely traumatic , not only because I was moving to a new environment but because I was the most expensive player in the club ’ s history . ''
Angel smashed in 43 goals in just 82 league games for previous club River Plate but , at Villa , the striker struggled to hit it off and did n't score for five months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the club made things worse and more difficult , '' Angel told Stadium Astro .
`` When I first joined the club , at that time it was a pretty old squad with some youngsters coming in from the academy .
`` They were coming to the end of their careers .
`` John Gregory was the manager that signed me .
Then we had Graham Taylor , David O'Leary and Martin O'Neill within the space of five , six years .
`` It was difficult for players to adjust to a specific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the time .
`` In my case , I had to adjust and I learned that during my time in South America in Argentina .
At a club like River Plate , there 's always good players .
`` In my time we had Enzo Francescoli , a Uruguayan superstar ; Marcelo Salas who , at that time , was probably the best striker in South America ; Javier Saviola , Pablo Aimar , Crespo .
It was in me , having that competition .
`` ( At Villa ) I needed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was working hard or trying to adjust my game with the team and the league - in order to play week in , week out . ''
Angel eventually found his way and scored a remarkable 23 goals in all competitions in a standout campaign in 2003/04 .
The classy forward finished his six-year Villa career with a record of 205 appearances , scoring 62 times at a rate of just over a goal every three games .

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Aston Villa hero Juan Pablo Angel has revealed how his wife and new-born baby were rushed into hospital just days after arriving in Birmingham.
Then-boss John Gregory shelled-out a club-record £9.5million to land the Colombian in January 2001 and, for the first time, Angel has explained just how difficult a time it was.
Angel, who lived in The Belfry after signing, told The Athletic : "When we came over we didn’t have anything.
"My wife, Maria Paula, was extremely ill and at risk of dying. My first child, Geronimo, was taken to hospital, too.
"Also, we couldn’t speak the language, we had nobody who could help us.
"The first few months were extremely traumatic, not only because I was moving to a new environment but because I was the most expensive player in the club’s history."
Angel smashed in 43 goals in just 82 league games for previous club River Plate but, at Villa, the striker struggled to hit it off and didn't score for five months.
"The lack of stability at the club made things worse and more difficult," Angel told Stadium Astro.
"When I first joined the club, at that time it was a pretty old squad with some youngsters coming in from the academy.
"Paul Merson, Dion Dublin, Stevie Staunton, David James, Peter Schmeichel, Gareth Southgate, I'm talking big names.
"They were coming to the end of their careers.
"John Gregory was the manager that signed me. Then we had Graham Taylor, David O'Leary and Martin O'Neill within the space of five, six years.
"It was difficult for players to adjust to a specific type of manager. There were changes all the time.
(Image: Gary M. Prior/Getty Images)
"In my case, I had to adjust and I learned that during my time in South America in Argentina. At a club like River Plate, there's always good players.
"In my time we had Enzo Francescoli, a Uruguayan superstar; Marcelo Salas who, at that time, was probably the best striker in South America; Javier Saviola, Pablo Aimar, Crespo. It was in me, having that competition.
"(At Villa) I needed to find a way - whether it was working hard or trying to adjust my game with the team and the league - in order to play week in, week out."
Angel eventually found his way and scored a remarkable 23 goals in all competitions in a standout campaign in 2003/04. The classy forward finished his six-year Villa career with a record of 205 appearances, scoring 62 times at a rate of just over a goal every three games.


birminghammail--2020-05-03--Burnley will demand £10m for Sean Dyche amid reported interest

Burnley will demand a £10million compensation package for their boss Sean Dyche .
Last week , the Premier League manager was touted with a move to Aston Villa and Crystal Palace , the latter known to be long-term admirers .
The Sun report how Dyche is currently tied down on a hefty salary with chairman Mike Garlick confident of keeping his man due to what it would cost to take him from Turf Moor .
Dyche has performed wonders at Burnley since taking the job eight years ago .
The 48-year-old has overseen two promotions while now helping to establish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team .
Dyche , meanwhile , has seemingly grew a little frustrated with his transfer budgets and will want reassurances with the club moving forward into next season and beyond .
The outspoken manager , who lives in Northampton , could be high on a list for clubs in the Premier League given his exploits at Turf Moor .
It 's claimed Palace see Dyche as a long-term replacement for Roy Hodgson , yet Dyche would prefer to stay north of the capital .
With regards to the eye-watering £10million compensation , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking Dyche 's trusted right-hand men , Ian Woan , Tony Loughlan and goalkeeper coach Billy Mercer .
The Sun claim there would be a large settlement bill for any new club .

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Burnley will demand a £10million compensation package for their boss Sean Dyche.
Last week, the Premier League manager was touted with a move to Aston Villa and Crystal Palace, the latter known to be long-term admirers.
The Sun report how Dyche is currently tied down on a hefty salary with chairman Mike Garlick confident of keeping his man due to what it would cost to take him from Turf Moor.
Dyche has performed wonders at Burnley since taking the job eight years ago. The 48-year-old has overseen two promotions while now helping to establish the Clarets as a top-10 Premier League team.
Dyche, meanwhile, has seemingly grew a little frustrated with his transfer budgets and will want reassurances with the club moving forward into next season and beyond.
The outspoken manager, who lives in Northampton, could be high on a list for clubs in the Premier League given his exploits at Turf Moor. It's claimed Palace see Dyche as a long-term replacement for Roy Hodgson, yet Dyche would prefer to stay north of the capital.
With regards to the eye-watering £10million compensation, it's said to include the cost of taking Dyche's trusted right-hand men, Ian Woan, Tony Loughlan and goalkeeper coach Billy Mercer. The Sun claim there would be a large settlement bill for any new club.


birminghammail--2020-05-03--How inner-city nuns have been helping needy including drug addicts

The inner-city neighbourhood of Lozells is known for its richness of multiculturalism , with a long history of Irish , Vietnamese , Afro-Caribbean and South Asian influences .
But is also riddled with poverty , making it one of Birmingham ’ s most deprived areas in 2019 .
However for almost 200 years , generations of Catholic nuns have been helping the most in need .
St Mary ’ s Convent , on Hunters Road , is hidden amongst the rows of aged HMO properties .
Engaging in what they describe as works of mercy , before lockdown they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doors every single day .
Brigid McNally , 80 , originally from Dublin , has lived in England since 1958 .
She was only a teenager when she entered the church .
She took her religious vows aged 21 and pledged to live a life alongside sisters following evangelical rules of poverty , celibacy , and obedience .
Brigid has been based at the convent in Lozells for the last seven years .
`` I believed God wanted it , it 's been a very happy life [ but ] it 's not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` This is a hard house to work in because it 's very much ongoing .
It 's not just the poor at the door .
`` There are lots of other groups coming and going to the house all the time : need and prayer groups , of people who come for a day of prayer and the young .
The convent of today continues a long history of being heavily involved with the local community .
St Mary ’ s Convent was opened in 1841 and has been a lived-in nunnery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businessman called John Hardman and John Talbot the 16th Earl of Shrewsbury both wanted to address poverty in Birmingham .
The convent is home to the Sisters of Mercy , founded by Catherine McAuley in the 1800 ’ s from Dublin .
There has never been a time when nuns have not lived there .
Before lockdown , the sisters served up to 20 strangers a day who knocked on their church doors hungry and desperate .
Between 10am - 2pm lines formed outside the convent filled with a majority of men awaiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sandwiches , a hot drink , and snacks .
Once a month a bag of groceries are handed out to the needy , filled with coffee , tins of salmon , baked beans , items Bridid says you could eat if “ you did n't have electricity you could still eat them cold.
” “ We have many vulnerable members of the public coming through the doors , ” she says .
`` Occasionally they are homeless or they have made themselves homeless .
Mostly they are living in hostels in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They are on benefits , but so very often their benefits are sanctioned and then they have nothing .
`` There 's been an influx of people on the very margins , not quite homeless , but nearly .
Brigid was once stopped by a man begging for her to pray for him , before he declared he spent £1,300 on drugs in a single week .
`` Only a drug pusher could own that kind of money [ too ] , so [ they ] own him .
“ They get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of prison , there are so many possibilities , They do n't seem to have any support system , they are on their own .
`` Now a lot of young women are coming as well.
” ‘ Sometimes if lads are on drugs they do n't know what time it is ’ “ Very rarely would we send someone home .
“ We know them all , we know their names , a little about their backgrounds and struggles .
“ Many of those who come to us are probably never going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Very often [ it is ] very young men .
Mostly they are young ones who come but we have quite a number of elderly as well - men and women .
“ Sometimes you will see someone for a few months and they will disappear altogether , we never know what happens to them after that . ''
Besides being part of the convent Sister Noreen Collen , 71 , is also a member of the St. Vincent De Paul society - a charity with the sole aim of helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As a national charity any member of the public - regardless of religious belief - can contact the society for help .
`` We visit elderly and sick people in their homes but also in practical ways .
We are able to help people in their time of need .
We give money to people that we felt are needy , some people a token of appreciation .
`` It 's amazing the kind of requests you get . ''

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The inner-city neighbourhood of Lozells is known for its richness of multiculturalism, with a long history of Irish, Vietnamese, Afro-Caribbean and South Asian influences.
But is also riddled with poverty, making it one of Birmingham’s most deprived areas in 2019.
However for almost 200 years, generations of Catholic nuns have been helping the most in need.
St Mary’s Convent, on Hunters Road, is hidden amongst the rows of aged HMO properties.
Engaging in what they describe as works of mercy, before lockdown they were helping feed the most desperate at their doors every single day.
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Brigid McNally, 80, originally from Dublin, has lived in England since 1958. She was only a teenager when she entered the church.
She took her religious vows aged 21 and pledged to live a life alongside sisters following evangelical rules of poverty, celibacy, and obedience.
Brigid has been based at the convent in Lozells for the last seven years.
"I believed God wanted it, it's been a very happy life [but] it's not been easy,” she says.
"This is a hard house to work in because it's very much ongoing. It's not just the poor at the door.
"There are lots of other groups coming and going to the house all the time: need and prayer groups, of people who come for a day of prayer and the young.
The convent of today continues a long history of being heavily involved with the local community.
St Mary’s Convent was opened in 1841 and has been a lived-in nunnery ever since.
A well known local businessman called John Hardman and John Talbot the 16th Earl of Shrewsbury both wanted to address poverty in Birmingham.
The convent is home to the Sisters of Mercy, founded by Catherine McAuley in the 1800’s from Dublin.
There has never been a time when nuns have not lived there.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Before lockdown, the sisters served up to 20 strangers a day who knocked on their church doors hungry and desperate.
Between 10am - 2pm lines formed outside the convent filled with a majority of men awaiting a small meal, often made up of sandwiches, a hot drink, and snacks.
Once a month a bag of groceries are handed out to the needy, filled with coffee, tins of salmon, baked beans, items Bridid says you could eat if “you didn't have electricity you could still eat them cold.”
“We have many vulnerable members of the public coming through the doors,” she says.
"Occasionally they are homeless or they have made themselves homeless. Mostly they are living in hostels in the area - there are so many hostels. They are on benefits, but so very often their benefits are sanctioned and then they have nothing.
"There's been an influx of people on the very margins, not quite homeless, but nearly.
Brigid was once stopped by a man begging for her to pray for him, before he declared he spent £1,300 on drugs in a single week.
"Only a drug pusher could own that kind of money [too], so [they] own him.
“They get into bad ways or they're out of prison, there are so many possibilities, They don't seem to have any support system, they are on their own.
"Now a lot of young women are coming as well.”
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
‘Sometimes if lads are on drugs they don't know what time it is’
“Very rarely would we send someone home.
“We know them all, we know their names, a little about their backgrounds and struggles.
“Many of those who come to us are probably never going to get their lives back on course.
“Very often [it is] very young men. Mostly they are young ones who come but we have quite a number of elderly as well - men and women.
“Sometimes you will see someone for a few months and they will disappear altogether, we never know what happens to them after that."
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Besides being part of the convent Sister Noreen Collen, 71, is also a member of the St. Vincent De Paul society - a charity with the sole aim of helping the most desperate across the UK.
As a national charity any member of the public - regardless of religious belief - can contact the society for help.
Follow Community Reporter Rakeem Omar Hyatt on social media Follow Rakeem Omar Hyatt on twitter here You can read more of his stories here You can email him on rakeem.hyatt@reachplc.com You can also keep up with his stories by liking his facebook page here Like the Birmingham Live Facebook page and follow @birmingham_live on Twitter
"We visit elderly and sick people in their homes but also in practical ways. We are able to help people in their time of need. We give money to people that we felt are needy, some people a token of appreciation.
"It's amazing the kind of requests you get."


birminghammail--2020-05-03--How to get a Sunday roast in the Black Country during the lockdown

The nation loves a good Sunday roast but the recent lockdown means you can ’ t pop out to your favourite carvery .
We asked people across the Black Country , where is the best place to order a roast dinner ?
The post was inundated with responses of recommendations for pubs and restaurants currently open in Wolverhampton , Walsall , Dudley and Sandwell .
If you want a break from the kitchen , scroll down to find out where you can order your favourite traditional meal .
Among the list of recommendations was The Dudley Arms .
On Sundays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collection from the pub on the Wolverhampton Road .
The pub serves a range of British classics including a carvery , steak and ale pies and beer-battered cod and chips .
To get in touch , visit the pub ’ s Facebook page or give the staff a call on 01902 892223 .
A bar and grill in Codsall will be open from Saturday , May 2 , to offer takeaway food .
You will be able to order breakfast , a traditional Sunday roast or some comforting pub grub by popping to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calling 07908033407 .
It will be open every Saturday and Sunday and you 'll have to collect your meal .
If you ’ ve been craving a steak while stuck at home during the lockdown , the Three Hammers Bistro has a solution .
You can order 8oz rump , sirloin and fillets steaks by emailing : info @ 3hammersbistro.co.uk .
Each meal is served with a choice of chips or baked potato as well as grilled tomato , mushroom and onion rings .
The full takeaway collection menu can be viewed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a café in Wednesbury offering hot food available for collection or delivery .
As well as a range of beef , chicken and gammon meals you can also get your hands on a Caribbean dishes at Porky ’ s Cafe in Spring Head .
The menu includes roast pork , beef , gammon , and chicken as well as , cheese and potato pie .
They all come with the usual Sunday roast trimmings .
If you ’ re fancying a Caribbean meal , the menu includes : Oxtail , curry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chicken served with a choice of rice and peas or white rice with plantain and homemade coleslaw .
To make an order or find out more , head to Facebook or call 07377916389 .
If you live in and around Sandwell you can have a roast delivered straight to your door .
Crosswells Inn in Langley is operating on Tuesdays , Friday and Sunday .
Deliveries are made between 12pm and 3pm .
To place an order , send a message to the Facebook page .
The menu includes roast beef or turkey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not add a delicious sweet treat for dessert ?
Treacle sponge , chocolate brownie or traditional apple pie are also available .
The Steak Rattle and Roll restaurant in Walsall has made its menu available for delivery .
To make an order , call 01922 692569 after 5.30pm .
You can get a Sunday roast with all the trimmings as well as a range of burgers , comfort foods and grills .
The mixed grill appears to be a firm favourite among customers and comes with a lamb chop , pork chop , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chips tomato , mushrooms and peas .
Customers have taken to Facebook to commend the ‘ piping hot ’ meals ordered from The Railway Inn pub in Pelsall .
On Sundays , you can have a takeaway roast or fish and chips on Fridays .
For the kids , you can order a meal of chicken nuggets , chips and beans for £4 .
On Fridays , Saturdays and Sundays you can order from The New Wellington pub in Brierley Hill .
You can order a carvery every Sunday as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , burgers and pub grub favourites .
A vegetable-only carvery is available with vegetarian gravy , or broccoli and cream cheese bake or Mediterranean tart or vegan shepherd ’ s pie .
For delivery or collection , you can make an order through Just Eat , Uber Eats or through the pub ’ s website .
You can also call 01384 76066 .
While we are all missing our pub grub , some may be missing other parts of the pub .
A pub in Lye has sorted that out by making its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As well as a traditional roast , you can get your hands on pizza , curries and a range of other pub menu favourites .
The pub is based in Pedmore Road and orders can for collection be made via its website or by calling 01384 423998 .
If you have any recommendations , get in touch on our Facebook page .

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The nation loves a good Sunday roast but the recent lockdown means you can’t pop out to your favourite carvery.
We asked people across the Black Country, where is the best place to order a roast dinner?
The post was inundated with responses of recommendations for pubs and restaurants currently open in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley and Sandwell.
If you want a break from the kitchen, scroll down to find out where you can order your favourite traditional meal.
The Dudley Arms
(Image: Google Street View)
Among the list of recommendations was The Dudley Arms.
On Sundays, you can order a carvery for collection from the pub on the Wolverhampton Road.
The pub serves a range of British classics including a carvery, steak and ale pies and beer-battered cod and chips.
To get in touch, visit the pub’s Facebook page or give the staff a call on 01902 892223.
Charlie's Sports Bar and Grill
A bar and grill in Codsall will be open from Saturday, May 2, to offer takeaway food.
You will be able to order breakfast, a traditional Sunday roast or some comforting pub grub by popping to the restaurant’s Facebook page or calling 07908033407.
It will be open every Saturday and Sunday and you'll have to collect your meal.
Three Hammers Bar & Bistro
If you’ve been craving a steak while stuck at home during the lockdown, the Three Hammers Bistro has a solution.
You can order 8oz rump, sirloin and fillets steaks by emailing: info@3hammersbistro.co.uk.
Each meal is served with a choice of chips or baked potato as well as grilled tomato, mushroom and onion rings.
The full takeaway collection menu can be viewed on the bar's Facebook page.
Porky’s Cafe Wednesbury
(Image: Porky's Cafe)
There’s a café in Wednesbury offering hot food available for collection or delivery.
As well as a range of beef, chicken and gammon meals you can also get your hands on a Caribbean dishes at Porky’s Cafe in Spring Head.
The menu includes roast pork, beef, gammon, and chicken as well as, cheese and potato pie. They all come with the usual Sunday roast trimmings.
If you’re fancying a Caribbean meal, the menu includes: Oxtail, curry mutton, southern fried chicken and jerk chicken served with a choice of rice and peas or white rice with plantain and homemade coleslaw.
To make an order or find out more, head to Facebook or call 07377916389.
Crosswells Inn
If you live in and around Sandwell you can have a roast delivered straight to your door.
Crosswells Inn in Langley is operating on Tuesdays, Friday and Sunday. Deliveries are made between 12pm and 3pm. To place an order, send a message to the Facebook page.
The menu includes roast beef or turkey dinners with all the trimming.
Why not add a delicious sweet treat for dessert? Treacle sponge, chocolate brownie or traditional apple pie are also available.
Steak Rattle and Roll
The Steak Rattle and Roll restaurant in Walsall has made its menu available for delivery.
To make an order, call 01922 692569 after 5.30pm.
You can get a Sunday roast with all the trimmings as well as a range of burgers, comfort foods and grills.
The mixed grill appears to be a firm favourite among customers and comes with a lamb chop, pork chop, gammon, two sausages, onion rings, chips tomato, mushrooms and peas.
The Railway Inn
(Image: The Railway Inn)
Customers have taken to Facebook to commend the ‘piping hot’ meals ordered from The Railway Inn pub in Pelsall.
On Sundays, you can have a takeaway roast or fish and chips on Fridays. For the kids, you can order a meal of chicken nuggets, chips and beans for £4.
To place an order, call 01922 686911.
The New Wellington
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays you can order from The New Wellington pub in Brierley Hill.
You can order a carvery every Sunday as well as a range of steaks, mixed grills, burgers and pub grub favourites.
A vegetable-only carvery is available with vegetarian gravy, or broccoli and cream cheese bake or Mediterranean tart or vegan shepherd’s pie.
For delivery or collection, you can make an order through Just Eat, Uber Eats or through the pub’s website. You can also call 01384 76066.
The Shovel Inn
(Image: Google Street View)
While we are all missing our pub grub, some may be missing other parts of the pub. A pub in Lye has sorted that out by making its beers and real ale available for delivery.
As well as a traditional roast, you can get your hands on pizza, curries and a range of other pub menu favourites.
The pub is based in Pedmore Road and orders can for collection be made via its website or by calling 01384 423998.
If you have any recommendations, get in touch on our Facebook page.


birminghammail--2020-05-03--Hero daughters risked own lives after parents hit by coronavirus

This is the Midlands family cut down by coronavirus .
Four members were hospitalised .
One died .
And now family members have dubbed sisters Annette Gardner and Sue Roberts heroes for risking their own lives to tend to their stricken , elderly parents .
They moved into Vic and Margaret Gardner ’ s Wythall home , fully aware that the couple could have the terrible virus .
Vic later died , but , thanks to the sisters ’ selfless act , their mother survived .
It was bravery that came at a very high price .
Inevitably , both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus came so close to claiming 58-year-old teacher Annette that her son and daughter said their final goodbyes via computer screen .
Her miraculous recovery has been well documented thanks to a tear-jerking video released by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust .
Staff at Redditch ’ s Alexandra Hospital applaud loudly as she finally leaves intensive care on April 18 .
Still pitifully weak , she applauds back .
Her miracle has been widely reported – but the incredible family bond that drove Annette and Sue to defiantly stare death in the face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Heart of Worcestershire College in Redditch , and her sister had made the decision to step into the breach only days before an ambulance was called , as it became clear her mum and dad were ill. “ They knew what they were going into , ” says Annette ’ s daughter , Emma Kirby .
“ But that ’ s what you do for your family .
“ They went in to save their lives , and they succeeded in saving one of them .
They are heroes in our eyes.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Gardners ’ door is hard to comprehend .
Vic , aged 89 , died on March 26 , just six days after he was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Edgbaston .
At least , Emma reveals , caring hospital staff briefly re-united Vic and Margaret in hospital for their wedding anniversary on March 22 .
It would be the last the once inseperable couple saw of each other .
Margaret , aged 83 , is permanently scarred by the pandemic , her lungs badly damaged .
She and Vic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ readied to move from their large family home to a sheltered housing bungalow .
The pensioner , who , only weeks ago , was brimful of excitement about the prospect of a new life , now resides in a Bromsgrove hospice .
Meanwhile Annette , grandmother to three children , spent 17 days battling to survive in intensive care after she and Sue were admitted to the Alexandra Hospital on March 26 .
So severe was her condition that she said goodbye to daughter Emma , son Dave Gardner and his partner Cassie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all odds , she has beaten the virus .
She remains weak and remains on a ward .
Her steps are taken with the aid of a Zimmer frame .
“ I feel very strange , ” the mum-of-two told the Redditch Advertiser from hospital .
“ I have now been put on a ward where they are trying to build up my muscle .
“ I nearly died .
I lost my father and nearly lost my mother .
I thought I was going to die .
“ I have never felt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is one of the worst viruses anybody could ever go through .
“ It was a very disturbing experience .
I don ’ t know how my family has coped – it has affected everybody . ''
Thankfully , sister Sue was hospitalised for only days , and is on the road to full recovery .
It is a devastating chain of events that would crush many a family .
But Emma , mother to a three-year-old son , insists there is inspiration to be gained from the story .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blur , a blur that we ’ ve been through , ” says the 28-year-old beauty therapist .
“ It was like ‘ How much more can a family go through ?
’ “ But this is letting people know that you CAN come out of this .
I know there are a lot of people not coming out of this , and that ’ s why our message has to be said .
“ We are both lucky and unlucky , I suppose .
I have lost my grandad and my nan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But we are so grateful we have three people still with us.
” That is down to the courage of the two women who waded into the storm of this pandemic to save their parents .
Our glorious NHS workers are on the front line .
Annette and Sue were in the trenches .
Emma , aged 28 , discusses the horrors as if freshly awakened from a nightmare .
“ My poor nan has had to grieve by herself , ” she says .
“ She was in hospital for five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she ’ ll 100 per cent recover from it , but she surprises us more and more each day .
“ Grandad got ill before lockdown .
How he got it , we don ’ t know .
“ They were moving house – they lived in a nice , big house and were moving to a warden-controlled place .
“ They had an amazing life .
They lived a life of cruise ships and went to the Warner holiday places .
They had an amazing life.
” Emma admits she believed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she watched her mother slowly slip away .
“ We saw how quickly it happened to my grandad and thought that would be it , ” she says .
“ The last time I spoke to my mum , she was so struggling to breathe , and she looked awful .
“ At first , she was Facetiming us from hospital .
That changed to being on oxygen .
“ She got really bad .
She was hardly talking to us ; she was fading away .
“ She was trying so hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When my mum was going into intensive care , she was saying things we needed to know .
“ The doctors said they didn ’ t know if she ’ d survive .
She was really worried .
This was real , this was happening .
“ I think the video they put out was to show the positives of it .
They are so proud of how far my mum has come .
“ Seeing my mum clapping , she ’ s so grateful to everyone .
I can ’ t thank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been amazing .
They were just there for her .
“ We were worried we were calling too much , but they were always there .
With everything that ’ s going on , they ’ ve been amazing .
“ Mum is not 100 per cent , but she ’ s on the road to recovery.
” Emma has learned , through pain , suffering and grief , the importance of lockdown .
“ It took me a long time to go out of the house , ” she admits .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food shopping .
“ Now , even when we walk the dog , I make sure he doesn ’ t go near anybody .
I Dettol spray everything .
“ Stay in , ” she pleads .
“ Stay in and save lives.
” To thank the NHS for saving her mother , aunt and nan , Emma has set up a facebook fundraising page here

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This is the Midlands family cut down by coronavirus. Four members were hospitalised. One died.
And now family members have dubbed sisters Annette Gardner and Sue Roberts heroes for risking their own lives to tend to their stricken, elderly parents.
They moved into Vic and Margaret Gardner’s Wythall home, fully aware that the couple could have the terrible virus.
Vic later died, but, thanks to the sisters’ selfless act, their mother survived.
It was bravery that came at a very high price.
Inevitably, both Annette and Sue were themselves hospitalised. Coronavirus came so close to claiming 58-year-old teacher Annette that her son and daughter said their final goodbyes via computer screen.
Her miraculous recovery has been well documented thanks to a tear-jerking video released by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.
Staff at Redditch’s Alexandra Hospital applaud loudly as she finally leaves intensive care on April 18. Still pitifully weak, she applauds back.
Her miracle has been widely reported – but the incredible family bond that drove Annette and Sue to defiantly stare death in the face has not.
Annette, who works at Heart of Worcestershire College in Redditch, and her sister had made the decision to step into the breach only days before an ambulance was called, as it became clear her mum and dad were ill.
“They knew what they were going into,” says Annette’s daughter, Emma Kirby. “But that’s what you do for your family.
“They went in to save their lives, and they succeeded in saving one of them. They are heroes in our eyes.”
The tragedy that this pandemic brought to the Gardners’ door is hard to comprehend.
Vic, aged 89, died on March 26, just six days after he was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Edgbaston. At least, Emma reveals, caring hospital staff briefly re-united Vic and Margaret in hospital for their wedding anniversary on March 22. It would be the last the once inseperable couple saw of each other.
Margaret, aged 83, is permanently scarred by the pandemic, her lungs badly damaged. She and Vic were seized by the disease as they readied to move from their large family home to a sheltered housing bungalow.
The pensioner, who, only weeks ago, was brimful of excitement about the prospect of a new life, now resides in a Bromsgrove hospice.
Meanwhile Annette, grandmother to three children, spent 17 days battling to survive in intensive care after she and Sue were admitted to the Alexandra Hospital on March 26.
So severe was her condition that she said goodbye to daughter Emma, son Dave Gardner and his partner Cassie Abbott by video link.
But against all odds, she has beaten the virus. She remains weak and remains on a ward. Her steps are taken with the aid of a Zimmer frame.
“I feel very strange,” the mum-of-two told the Redditch Advertiser from hospital. “I have now been put on a ward where they are trying to build up my muscle.
“I nearly died. I lost my father and nearly lost my mother. I thought I was going to die.
“I have never felt like this before in my life. This is one of the worst viruses anybody could ever go through.
“It was a very disturbing experience. I don’t know how my family has coped – it has affected everybody."
Thankfully, sister Sue was hospitalised for only days, and is on the road to full recovery.
It is a devastating chain of events that would crush many a family.
But Emma, mother to a three-year-old son, insists there is inspiration to be gained from the story.
“The last five weeks have been like a blur, a blur that we’ve been through,” says the 28-year-old beauty therapist. “It was like ‘How much more can a family go through?’
“But this is letting people know that you CAN come out of this. I know there are a lot of people not coming out of this, and that’s why our message has to be said.
“We are both lucky and unlucky, I suppose. I have lost my grandad and my nan will never be 100 per cent better. But we are so grateful we have three people still with us.”
That is down to the courage of the two women who waded into the storm of this pandemic to save their parents.
Our glorious NHS workers are on the front line. Annette and Sue were in the trenches.
Emma, aged 28, discusses the horrors as if freshly awakened from a nightmare.
“My poor nan has had to grieve by herself,” she says. “She was in hospital for five weeks. I don’t think she’ll 100 per cent recover from it, but she surprises us more and more each day.
“Grandad got ill before lockdown. How he got it, we don’t know.
“They were moving house – they lived in a nice, big house and were moving to a warden-controlled place.
“They had an amazing life. They lived a life of cruise ships and went to the Warner holiday places. They had an amazing life.”
Emma admits she believed the family death toll would be greater as she watched her mother slowly slip away.
“We saw how quickly it happened to my grandad and thought that would be it,” she says. “The last time I spoke to my mum, she was so struggling to breathe, and she looked awful.
“At first, she was Facetiming us from hospital. That changed to being on oxygen.
“She got really bad. She was hardly talking to us; she was fading away.
“She was trying so hard but this virus was taking her. When my mum was going into intensive care, she was saying things we needed to know.
“The doctors said they didn’t know if she’d survive. She was really worried. This was real, this was happening.
“I think the video they put out was to show the positives of it. They are so proud of how far my mum has come.
“Seeing my mum clapping, she’s so grateful to everyone. I can’t thank the hospital staff enough, they have been amazing. They were just there for her.
“We were worried we were calling too much, but they were always there. With everything that’s going on, they’ve been amazing.
“Mum is not 100 per cent, but she’s on the road to recovery.”
Emma has learned, through pain, suffering and grief, the importance of lockdown.
“It took me a long time to go out of the house,” she admits. “I didn’t want to go food shopping.
“Now, even when we walk the dog, I make sure he doesn’t go near anybody. I Dettol spray everything.
“Stay in,” she pleads. “Stay in and save lives.”
To thank the NHS for saving her mother, aunt and nan, Emma has set up a facebook fundraising page here


birminghammail--2020-05-03--Virtual Birmingham Pride to take place online - how to join in

Birmingham Pride is set to go ahead next month despite the lockdown .
But thousands will not be gathering on city streets for the event which has been held in May every year since 1997 .
Instead , a VIRTUAL version of Birmingham Pride will take place online - with organisers hoping for a huge watching audience .
Meanwhile , the postponed live city centre event is now expected to take place in September - if lockdown has been lifted .
The festival announced the virtual Pride at the end of May with online performances and special guests streaming live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The 'Digital Pride ' will be broadcast on the official social media of Birmingham Pride on May 24 ( the original weekend of Pride ) .
Organisers said they were also looking at September for the newly scheduled Birmingham Pride event after it was postponed .
They had said : `` We are not cancelling Pride , however , we are pleased to confirm the new date of Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September .
`` Birmingham Pride 2020 will be showcasing a brand new space never used before - giving us all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We very much hope that the situation in the UK will have improved enormously later into the summer months , so that we can go ahead with one of the most important dates in the LGBTQ calendar - we will do whatever it takes .
`` Birmingham Pride is important to us all and the fantastic charities that we support .
`` We urge you to please support Birmingham Pride during these difficult times .
`` You do n't need to do anything , as your tickets will automatically be transferred to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the line up and other exciting things as they happen . ''

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Birmingham Pride is set to go ahead next month despite the lockdown.
But thousands will not be gathering on city streets for the event which has been held in May every year since 1997.
Instead, a VIRTUAL version of Birmingham Pride will take place online - with organisers hoping for a huge watching audience.
Meanwhile, the postponed live city centre event is now expected to take place in September - if lockdown has been lifted.
The festival announced the virtual Pride at the end of May with online performances and special guests streaming live on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
(Image: Birrmingham Pride)
The 'Digital Pride' will be broadcast on the official social media of Birmingham Pride on May 24 (the original weekend of Pride).
Organisers said they were also looking at September for the newly scheduled Birmingham Pride event after it was postponed.
They had said: "We are not cancelling Pride, however, we are pleased to confirm the new date of Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September.
"Birmingham Pride 2020 will be showcasing a brand new space never used before - giving us all something to look forward to.
"We very much hope that the situation in the UK will have improved enormously later into the summer months, so that we can go ahead with one of the most important dates in the LGBTQ calendar - we will do whatever it takes.
"Birmingham Pride is important to us all and the fantastic charities that we support.
"We urge you to please support Birmingham Pride during these difficult times.
"You don't need to do anything, as your tickets will automatically be transferred to the new dates and more information will follow on the line up and other exciting things as they happen."


birminghammail--2020-05-03--Mum with son on ventilator shares tips on caring when self isolating

A Tamworth mum has put together a series of videos on how to care for vulnerable people at home when self isolating during the coronavirus lockdown .
Toni Mousley 's son Ben was born with a diaphragmatic hernias ( a hole in his diaphragm ) which caused him breathing problems and led to many operations and treatments .
He had a spinal/brain injury at the age of nine and , as a result , he is in a wheelchair and has to be ventilated at night to enable him to breathe .
He usually has carers but , when Toni @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in China , she decided to move in with her son , who is now 31 , and take over his care so that they could be together .
They have been self isolating for the past four weeks .
Now , she has put together a series of videos to help families who are struggling to care for loved ones in a bid to stop people from being too scared .
`` I know there are people who have family members on ventilators and tracheotomies and that they are going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those people please do n't get scared about this , '' said Toni , who runs a care company called Unique Care Providers .
`` When I first saw what was coming , around six weeks ago , I was scared at first but , having had 31 years of experience caring for Ben , I know what to do and I 've been prepping for it . ''
* assigning a second key worker in case you become ill yourself * having a second emergency plan in case the first one goes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and desk using a £3 shaving brush * how to get rid of any bacteria from a wheelchair * how to encourage handwashing when a person struggles to use their hands * how to do a hair cut for a loved one Find out more of Toni 's tips here Show your support for our NHS Heroes Please pledge your support for all the amazing NHS staff who are battling the coronavirus crisis on the frontline .
At BirminghamLive , we ’ re proud to be part of the Reach nationwide NHS Heroes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these incredible people know exactly how much they mean to the nation .
We ’ re asking you to show them love by helping us create a living map of gratitude from every corner of Britain .
By dropping a heart on our online map , you ’ re saying you appreciate the efforts undertaken daily in the NHS .
To pledge your support , just go to Thanks A Million NHS .
Add your postcode to put a heart on the map and show your support for the heroes of the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to encourage others to show their support too .
We also want to hear your stories of NHS Heroes too - it could be something as simple as bringing cakes in for the team or making endless cups of tea to looking after each other 's children when no childcare is available and being available to swap shifts even when caring for people at home .
Please email details of your hero to zoe.chamberlain @ reachplc.com - we 'd love to feature them .
You can also read heartwarming stories in our # @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and you have to deal with them , '' said the single mum , who also has a daughter and son-in-law and two grandchildren , who she has been speaking to over Facetime for the past month .
`` Last weekend Ben 's tubing split on his ventilator and in the end I did a make shift tube for him .
`` My son and I have decided to document everything as much as we can , even down to hair cutting , shaving and a whole lot more .
`` Ben and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give something to everyone .
It 's about positivity and little tips on how to do things , especially as we know some may not have any form of medical experience . ''
Get daily tips on how to survive lockdown with your family via our free newsletter called Lemon-Aid .
Sign up here for daily ideas on things to do at home with your kids '' Four weeks ago I locked down because we are trying to protect the most vulnerable like Ben .
I have not done personal care really for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am struggling like most parents out there but this was my decision .
`` It made me realise I had got to put things in place as a mother .
I wanted to do something for people who are probably scared at home . ''
This comes as part of our NHS Heroes campaign - pledge your support by visiting Thanks A Million NHS We 're also celebrating key workers everywhere - from postmen and delivery drivers to teachers and supermarket checkout staff .
If you 're doing one of these essential roles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 'd love to hear how you 're getting on .
And , thank you , everyone for doing their bit .
It makes a big difference .

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A Tamworth mum has put together a series of videos on how to care for vulnerable people at home when self isolating during the coronavirus lockdown.
Toni Mousley's son Ben was born with a diaphragmatic hernias (a hole in his diaphragm) which caused him breathing problems and led to many operations and treatments.
He had a spinal/brain injury at the age of nine and, as a result, he is in a wheelchair and has to be ventilated at night to enable him to breathe.
He usually has carers but, when Toni saw news of the outbreak of Covid-19 in China, she decided to move in with her son, who is now 31, and take over his care so that they could be together.
They have been self isolating for the past four weeks.
Now, she has put together a series of videos to help families who are struggling to care for loved ones in a bid to stop people from being too scared.
"I know there are people who have family members on ventilators and tracheotomies and that they are going to be petrified and I wanted to say to those people please don't get scared about this," said Toni, who runs a care company called Unique Care Providers.
"When I first saw what was coming, around six weeks ago, I was scared at first but, having had 31 years of experience caring for Ben, I know what to do and I've been prepping for it."
Toni's tips include:
* doing a risk assessment
* organising your medicine cupboard
* assigning a second key worker in case you become ill yourself
* having a second emergency plan in case the first one goes wrong
* how to clean your computer and desk using a £3 shaving brush
* how to get rid of any bacteria from a wheelchair
* how to encourage handwashing when a person struggles to use their hands
* how to do a hair cut for a loved one
Find out more of Toni's tips here
Show your support for our NHS Heroes Please pledge your support for all the amazing NHS staff who are battling the coronavirus crisis on the frontline. At BirminghamLive, we’re proud to be part of the Reach nationwide NHS Heroes campaign, launched to make sure all these incredible people know exactly how much they mean to the nation. We’re asking you to show them love by helping us create a living map of gratitude from every corner of Britain. By dropping a heart on our online map, you’re saying you appreciate the efforts undertaken daily in the NHS. To pledge your support, just go to Thanks A Million NHS. Add your postcode to put a heart on the map and show your support for the heroes of the NHS. And please do share the page to encourage others to show their support too. We also want to hear your stories of NHS Heroes too - it could be something as simple as bringing cakes in for the team or making endless cups of tea to looking after each other's children when no childcare is available and being available to swap shifts even when caring for people at home. Please email details of your hero to zoe.chamberlain@reachplc.com - we'd love to feature them. You can also read heartwarming stories in our #BrumKIND campaign Thank you
"Things do go wrong and you have to deal with them," said the single mum, who also has a daughter and son-in-law and two grandchildren, who she has been speaking to over Facetime for the past month.
"Last weekend Ben's tubing split on his ventilator and in the end I did a make shift tube for him.
"My son and I have decided to document everything as much as we can, even down to hair cutting, shaving and a whole lot more.
"Ben and I just wanted to be able to give something to everyone. It's about positivity and little tips on how to do things, especially as we know some may not have any form of medical experience."
Get daily tips on how to survive lockdown with your family via our free newsletter called Lemon-Aid. Sign up here for daily ideas on things to do at home with your kids
"Four weeks ago I locked down because we are trying to protect the most vulnerable like Ben. I have not done personal care really for him for over 10 years. I am struggling like most parents out there but this was my decision.
"It made me realise I had got to put things in place as a mother. I wanted to do something for people who are probably scared at home."
This comes as part of our NHS Heroes campaign - pledge your support by visiting Thanks A Million NHS
We're also celebrating key workers everywhere - from postmen and delivery drivers to teachers and supermarket checkout staff. If you're doing one of these essential roles, please do get in touch, we'd love to hear how you're getting on.
And, thank you, everyone for doing their bit. It makes a big difference.


birminghammail--2020-05-03--From faggots and 'pays' to Yam Yams - complete A-Z of Black Country

The Black Country is truly unique and the vast majority of locals are proud to call it home .
Not only is it steeped in history but it has produced some bostin ' fittle and brilliant people .
Here at Black Country Live , we 've gone through the alphabet to give you 26 reasons why it 's so great .
Back in the day , this lights spectacular gave Blackpool a run for its money .
Thousands of people used to flock to Walsall Arboretum to see dinosaurs , pirates and even a giant robot in flashing lights Sadly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it 'll live on in our memories forever .
It 's renowned for its famous fish and chips and being the 'home ' of the hit TV show Peaky Blinders .
But it 's the costumed characters who really bring the much-loved Dudley attraction to life .
It 's a school trip staple and a great family day out - it even attracts the odd famous face , like Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Charisma Carpenter .
Some of the world 's biggest stars were born and raised in the Black Country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stars , sporting champs and comedy geniuses .
Dudley has Lenny Henry , Frank Skinner and Julie Walters hail from Sandwell , Beverley Knight and Liam Payne were raised in Wolverhampton while Noddy Holder is one of Walsall 's most famous sons .
You can test your local celebrity knowledge by clicking here to take our quiz .
It was branded `` the worst tourist attraction in the UK '' back in 2016 and it was even mocked by Good Morning Britain host Piers Morgan , who said there was `` no grimmer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was the traders who had the last laugh as the big wheel in Stone Street Square actually attracted 13,500 people to the town centre .
Black Country folk are well known for their distinctive dialect .
'It ’ s a bit black over Bill ’ s mother ’ s ' , is a phrase you might hear when it looks like rain while 'keep out th ’ ossroad ' means ‘ mind how you go.
’ Hands are also referred to as 'donnies ' , women are affectionately known as 'wenches ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Who knew mincing a mix of pork offal , breadcrumbs , onions and seasoning could be so tasty ?
This is a real gem in Wolverhampton 's crown and it celebrated its 125th anniversary in December 2019 .
The stage has seen a wealth of touring shows and in house productions but the annual pantomime has become a tradition for many families .
This iconic concrete sculpture has been making Walsall shoppers smile since 1972 .
Known as 'Hoppy ' , it now has pride of place outside the town 's library in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also known as 'Merry Hell ' - especially the closer we get to Christmas .
But many of us will have spent many happy hours there as kids , enjoying a ride on the monorail , a trip to the Warner Brothers ' shop and a McDonald 's if we were lucky .
It 's believed the Lord of the Rings author based the trilogy 's grim region of Mordor on the Black Country .
In fact , ‘ Mordor ’ even translates as ‘ black region ’ in Sindarin , the Elven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim to fame .
Many of us watched our first film at West Bromwich 's Kings Cinema .
It may be no more , but we still fondly remember the sticky , popcorn covered floors and squeaky seats .
Here you 'll find everything you need to know about the achievements of Walsall 's craftsmen and women It 's a 'working museum ' housed in a restored leather factory brings Walsall 's great leather trade to life .
Best of all , it 's free .
This is the best place to wash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pint of one and three .
Officially known as the Old Swan , this pub is famous among real ale drinkers and is one of the few pubs in the West Midlands that still brews its own beer on the premises .
Culture vultures flock to Walsall town centre to visit this free gallery which has a variety of permanent collections and temporary exhibitions .
You can even take a virtual tour from the comfort of your sofa .
Once you go orange , you never go back .
Battered chips are legendary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just another of the Black Country 's greatest delicacies .
It 's said a young Queen Victoria was once so offended by the sight of the Black Country she closed the curtains in her carriage as she passed through .
She later wrote in her diary ' I can not by any description give an idea of its strange and extraordinary appearance ' .
Cheers , bab !
The Black Country is home to some serious rock legends .
We 've got a whole lotta love for Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same town Judas Priest was formed .
We have Stourbridge to thank for Ned 's Atomic Dustbin , while Slade come from the Wolverhampton and Walsall areas of the region .
Just look at it - it 's beautiful .
It 's the ideal place to walk your dog , take in some stunning views and even settle down for a picnic in the sunshine .
Who has n't heard of Teddy Grays ?
The herbal tablets are iconic and the boiled sweets , fudge and rock are pretty decent too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stick .
Outsiders love to mock the accent and make some unfair and downright rude assumptions about the area .
But to us , it 's home - and here 's some reasons why everyone should love it .
Did you know there 's an American football scene right here in the Black Country ?
The Black Country Vipers are based in Dudley and anyone aged between 14 and 19 can join their ranks .
Let 's face it , we could n't just pick one .
Ok , we 'll admit it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this was a hard one .
Xenodchial means 'friendly to strangers ' and as we 're nice folk , it 'll do .
Brummies refer to Black Country folk as Yam Yams because they say ‘ yow am ’ or ‘ yow ’ m ’ ( meaning you am , you are ) .
Dudley Zoo is home to some of the world 's rarest animals .
Reggie the sloth is one of the most popular residents but there 's also tigers , penguins , orangutans , giraffes and lemurs .
Dudley Castle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trip to the zoo is complete without a ride on the chairlift .

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The Black Country is truly unique and the vast majority of locals are proud to call it home.
Not only is it steeped in history but it has produced some bostin' fittle and brilliant people.
Here at Black Country Live, we've gone through the alphabet to give you 26 reasons why it's so great.
A - Arboretum Illuminations
Back in the day, this lights spectacular gave Blackpool a run for its money.
Thousands of people used to flock to Walsall Arboretum to see dinosaurs, pirates and even a giant robot in flashing lights
Sadly, the event was scrapped in 2009 but it'll live on in our memories forever.
B - Black Country Living Museum
It's renowned for its famous fish and chips and being the 'home' of the hit TV show Peaky Blinders.
But it's the costumed characters who really bring the much-loved Dudley attraction to life.
It's a school trip staple and a great family day out - it even attracts the odd famous face, like Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Charisma Carpenter.
C - Celebrities
Some of the world's biggest stars were born and raised in the Black Country
The region has produced TV and film stars, sporting champs and comedy geniuses.
Dudley has Lenny Henry, Frank Skinner and Julie Walters hail from Sandwell, Beverley Knight and Liam Payne were raised in Wolverhampton while Noddy Holder is one of Walsall's most famous sons.
You can test your local celebrity knowledge by clicking here to take our quiz.
D - Dudley Eye
(Image: Martin Simcox / Flickr.)
It was branded "the worst tourist attraction in the UK" back in 2016 and it was even mocked by Good Morning Britain host Piers Morgan, who said there was "no grimmer panorama view than Dudley".
But it was the traders who had the last laugh as the big wheel in Stone Street Square actually attracted 13,500 people to the town centre.
E - Expressions
Black Country folk are well known for their distinctive dialect.
'It’s a bit black over Bill’s mother’s', is a phrase you might hear when it looks like rain while 'keep out th’ossroad' means ‘mind how you go.’
Hands are also referred to as 'donnies', women are affectionately known as 'wenches' and anything brilliant is 'bostin'.
You'll find a lot more classic expressions here.
F - Faggots
Faggots and ‘pays’ is a traditional Black Country dish.
Who knew mincing a mix of pork offal, breadcrumbs, onions and seasoning could be so tasty?
G - Grand Theatre
This is a real gem in Wolverhampton's crown and it celebrated its 125th anniversary in December 2019.
The stage has seen a wealth of touring shows and in house productions but the annual pantomime has become a tradition for many families.
H - Hippo
This iconic concrete sculpture has been making Walsall shoppers smile since 1972.
Known as 'Hoppy', it now has pride of place outside the town's library in Lichfield Street.
I - intu Merry Hill
The shopping centre is also known as 'Merry Hell' - especially the closer we get to Christmas.
But many of us will have spent many happy hours there as kids, enjoying a ride on the monorail, a trip to the Warner Brothers' shop and a McDonald's if we were lucky.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
J - J.R.R Tolkien
It's believed the Lord of the Rings author based the trilogy's grim region of Mordor on the Black Country. In fact, ‘Mordor’ even translates as ‘black region’ in Sindarin, the Elven language used in Middle-Earth. Quite a claim to fame.
K - Kings
Many of us watched our first film at West Bromwich's Kings Cinema.
It may be no more, but we still fondly remember the sticky, popcorn covered floors and squeaky seats.
L - Leather Museum
Here you'll find everything you need to know about the achievements of Walsall's craftsmen and women
It's a 'working museum' housed in a restored leather factory brings Walsall's great leather trade to life.
Best of all, it's free.
M - Ma Pardoes
This is the best place to wash down a crusty cheese cob with a pint of one and three.
Officially known as the Old Swan, this pub is famous among real ale drinkers and is one of the few pubs in the West Midlands that still brews its own beer on the premises.
N - New Art Gallery
Culture vultures flock to Walsall town centre to visit this free gallery which has a variety of permanent collections and temporary exhibitions.
You can even take a virtual tour from the comfort of your sofa.
O - Orange chips
Once you go orange, you never go back. Battered chips are legendary.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
P - Pork scratchings
Pork scratchings are the perfect pub snack.
The highly-salted, deep-fried pig-skin is just another of the Black Country's greatest delicacies.
Q - Queen Victoria
It's said a young Queen Victoria was once so offended by the sight of the Black Country she closed the curtains in her carriage as she passed through.
She later wrote in her diary 'I cannot by any description give an idea of its strange and extraordinary appearance'. Cheers, bab!
R - Rockers
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The Black Country is home to some serious rock legends.
We've got a whole lotta love for Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant, who was born in West Bromwich - the same town Judas Priest was formed.
We have Stourbridge to thank for Ned's Atomic Dustbin, while Slade come from the Wolverhampton and Walsall areas of the region.
S - Sandwell Valley
Just look at it - it's beautiful.
It's the ideal place to walk your dog, take in some stunning views and even settle down for a picnic in the sunshine.
T - Teddy Grays
Who hasn't heard of Teddy Grays? The herbal tablets are iconic and the boiled sweets, fudge and rock are pretty decent too.
U - Unfair reputation
The Black Country gets a lot of stick. Outsiders love to mock the accent and make some unfair and downright rude assumptions about the area.
But to us, it's home - and here's some reasons why everyone should love it.
V - Vipers
Did you know there's an American football scene right here in the Black Country?
The Black Country Vipers are based in Dudley and anyone aged between 14 and 19 can join their ranks.
W - Wolves, WBA and Walsall FC
Let's face it, we couldn't just pick one.
X - Xenodochial
Ok, we'll admit it, we're scraping the barrel but this was a hard one. Xenodchial means 'friendly to strangers' and as we're nice folk, it'll do.
Y - Yam Yam
Brummies refer to Black Country folk as Yam Yams because they say ‘yow am’ or ‘yow’m’ (meaning you am, you are).
Z - Zoo
Dudley Zoo is home to some of the world's rarest animals.
Reggie the sloth is one of the most popular residents but there's also tigers, penguins, orangutans, giraffes and lemurs.
Dudley Castle also lies within the grounds and no trip to the zoo is complete without a ride on the chairlift.


birminghammail--2020-05-03--How graduate battled back from suicide bid to run burlesque company

Mental health issues can be difficult to cope with or without the right support - or even knowing what they are .
But he was only diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the end of his studies at Birmingham City University after two suicide attempts .
The 25-year-old , originally from Bromsgrove , said that knowing his illness has helped him manage it and take steps to make his life better .
He said : `` I have been struggling with my mental health for as long as I can remember , likely from the age of seven .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2017 that I got my diagnosis for bipolar .
`` I found this really helpful in understanding how I responded to certain situations and behaviours I had experienced in previous years .
`` The psychiatrist I saw was adamant to put me on medication with no regard to other methods of coping , so I made the decision to solo it and learn to manage on my own . ''
The journey has n't been easy for Danny as he explained that his mood can jump from high to low .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he tried to take his own life during his studies .
`` It has been difficult but I have and am managing , '' he said .
`` I do experience panic and anxiety too which can be difficult in social situations .
I often experience lows and highs .
`` Highs can mean huge bursts of energy and creativity , being too much and no understanding risk .
`` When I experience lows this means for me , very deep periods of depression where I become hollow .
Whilst at university I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ending up in hospital .
`` These were extremely dark periods of my life , however , since then , despite still feeling these feelings from time to time , I am able to manage my life better and continue to function and flourish . ''
Since graduating , Danny has set up his own Burlesque dance company and sold out shows in the city 's Gay Village .
His company , House of Allure plays a huge role in Danny 's self-care as he finds joy in helping others .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build a better life for myself and for others .
Knowing what it is like to feel worthless , not wanted , too low to carry on .
`` I forged this with my Burlesque workshops and classes and used this as a tool to help others with their confidence .
`` Teaching dance helped me find a productive purpose that really helped me to manage my own mental health .
`` Being productive is my best asset to combat and manage my mental health .
`` I am very much still learning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am only just starting to understand to let myself run with times where I can not function . ''
Lockdown has n't stopped him from combating the problem as he now continues to run his dance classes via Instagram Live every Tuesday and Thursday .

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Mental health issues can be difficult to cope with or without the right support - or even knowing what they are.
Dance teacher Danny Phillips began struggling with mental health as a child.
But he was only diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the end of his studies at Birmingham City University after two suicide attempts.
The 25-year-old, originally from Bromsgrove, said that knowing his illness has helped him manage it and take steps to make his life better.
He said: "I have been struggling with my mental health for as long as I can remember, likely from the age of seven. It wasn't until my final year of university in 2017 that I got my diagnosis for bipolar.
"I found this really helpful in understanding how I responded to certain situations and behaviours I had experienced in previous years.
"The psychiatrist I saw was adamant to put me on medication with no regard to other methods of coping, so I made the decision to solo it and learn to manage on my own."
The journey hasn't been easy for Danny as he explained that his mood can jump from high to low.
It was during these severe low moods that he tried to take his own life during his studies.
"It has been difficult but I have and am managing," he said.
"I do experience panic and anxiety too which can be difficult in social situations. I often experience lows and highs.
"Highs can mean huge bursts of energy and creativity, being too much and no understanding risk.
"When I experience lows this means for me, very deep periods of depression where I become hollow. Whilst at university I tried to take my own life twice and ending up in hospital.
"These were extremely dark periods of my life, however, since then, despite still feeling these feelings from time to time, I am able to manage my life better and continue to function and flourish."
Since graduating, Danny has set up his own Burlesque dance company and sold out shows in the city's Gay Village.
His company, House of Allure plays a huge role in Danny's self-care as he finds joy in helping others.
He said: "I always try to build a better life for myself and for others. Knowing what it is like to feel worthless, not wanted, too low to carry on.
"I forged this with my Burlesque workshops and classes and used this as a tool to help others with their confidence.
"Teaching dance helped me find a productive purpose that really helped me to manage my own mental health.
What helps Danny with his mental health? Danny believes that the key to helping yourself is to: surround yourself with a good network of friends and or family,
be able to rest when you want,
don't punish yourself for not being able to function from time to time,
maintain a healthy diet and exercise, get plenty of fresh air;
remember to allow yourself to have a balance of fun too.
"Being productive is my best asset to combat and manage my mental health.
"I am very much still learning how to live with Bipolar and I am only just starting to understand to let myself run with times where I can not function."
Lockdown hasn't stopped him from combating the problem as he now continues to run his dance classes via Instagram Live every Tuesday and Thursday.


birminghammail--2020-05-03--The doctor fasting for Ramadan while caring for patients in intensive care

It is the holy month of Ramadan .
Dr Yassar Mustafa is one of the many Muslim NHS frontline staff who are not only saving lives but fasting at the same time .
From sunrise to sunset- including the duration of his near 13 hour shift- Dr Mustafa will abstain from eating while he tends to seriously ill patients in the intensive care unit at Good Hope Hospital .
Nor will he take a sip of water while wearing heavy personal protective equipment .
This year , Muslims have been adapting Ramadan practices amid the global pandemic .
Mosques are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But as the 32-year-old from Selly Oak , explains , families are worshipping at home , connecting online and even though working in ICU presents new challenges , he sees it a chance to give back to his faith and community .
Dr Mustafa , who has two boys aged six and four years and a three-month-old-girl , said : “ In previous years , we were wearing scrubs , now we are wearing the PPE gear .
“ One of my concerns was wearing all the PPE .
“ It can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that front line staff wearing PPE do not need to fast .
But personally , I have tried it out and found it manageable .
“ If there is any hint of any difficulty , from an Islamic point of view , front line staff don ’ t need to fast .
“ You wear PPE for a few hours and then you have a break before putting it back on .
“ Working in intensive care can be emotional because despite your best efforts some patients can continue to deteriorate but having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an opportunity to get closer to God .
“ It ’ s a month of giving , it ’ s a month of drawing closer to God by doing good works .
So working on the front line intensive care while fasting , although tough , is a blessing .
“ It can be viewed as something to draw strength from.
” Dr Mustafa will wake up at 3am , pray Fajr or the morning prayer , eat , sleep again for a few hours before leaving for work at 7am .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ICU at Good Hope Hospital until 8.30pm , arriving home at 9pm .
He will then eat and then pray the ‘ Tarawih ’ or night prayer- which has now changed due to coronavirus .
Dr Mustafa said : “ The Tarawih prayer takes a couple of hours is one of the defining features of Ramadan .
It ’ s a community prayer which is usually held in the mosque .
“ Now we are diligently following social distancing rules and we are praying at home as families .
“ During and after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ramadan activities with the boys like reading stories , playing games and we will talk about the fast and why we fast .
“ In previous times we would normally go to the mosque .
I would go to one in Moseley and we pray the night prayers there .
We would spend time there before coming back .
“ It ’ s a very community focused time , we would get to meet a lot of people .
“ The shops would open , a lot of these areas would come to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food and lots of places to relax and socialise- it ’ s all closed now .
“ It ’ s been replaced by a focus on the family in living rooms .
We ’ ve created a mosque area in the living room , we ’ ve put out various prayer mats and ornaments .
“ One of the other big changes is that we are listening to a lot of digital lectures and talks online .
It helps substitute the communal aspect we would ’ ve had in the mosque .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a more family focused one .

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It is the holy month of Ramadan.
Dr Yassar Mustafa is one of the many Muslim NHS frontline staff who are not only saving lives but fasting at the same time.
From sunrise to sunset- including the duration of his near 13 hour shift- Dr Mustafa will abstain from eating while he tends to seriously ill patients in the intensive care unit at Good Hope Hospital.
Nor will he take a sip of water while wearing heavy personal protective equipment.
This year, Muslims have been adapting Ramadan practices amid the global pandemic. Mosques are closed and social distancing is in force.
But as the 32-year-old from Selly Oak, explains, families are worshipping at home, connecting online and even though working in ICU presents new challenges, he sees it a chance to give back to his faith and community.
Dr Mustafa, who has two boys aged six and four years and a three-month-old-girl, said: “In previous years, we were wearing scrubs, now we are wearing the PPE gear.
“One of my concerns was wearing all the PPE.
“It can get hot. Some scholars have advised that front line staff wearing PPE do not need to fast. But personally, I have tried it out and found it manageable.
“If there is any hint of any difficulty, from an Islamic point of view, front line staff don’t need to fast.
“You wear PPE for a few hours and then you have a break before putting it back on.
“Working in intensive care can be emotional because despite your best efforts some patients can continue to deteriorate but having said that, in a sense Ramadan is an opportunity to get closer to God.
“It’s a month of giving, it’s a month of drawing closer to God by doing good works. So working on the front line intensive care while fasting, although tough, is a blessing.
“It can be viewed as something to draw strength from.”
(Image: GLMCC)
Dr Mustafa will wake up at 3am, pray Fajr or the morning prayer, eat, sleep again for a few hours before leaving for work at 7am.
He will work 12-and-a-half-hour shifts in the ICU at Good Hope Hospital until 8.30pm, arriving home at 9pm. He will then eat and then pray the ‘Tarawih’ or night prayer- which has now changed due to coronavirus.
Dr Mustafa said: “The Tarawih prayer takes a couple of hours is one of the defining features of Ramadan. It’s a community prayer which is usually held in the mosque.
“Now we are diligently following social distancing rules and we are praying at home as families.
“During and after the night prayer, we will do Ramadan activities with the boys like reading stories, playing games and we will talk about the fast and why we fast.
“In previous times we would normally go to the mosque. I would go to one in Moseley and we pray the night prayers there. We would spend time there before coming back.
“It’s a very community focused time, we would get to meet a lot of people.
“The shops would open, a lot of these areas would come to life. There were decorations, selling food and lots of places to relax and socialise- it’s all closed now.
“It’s been replaced by a focus on the family in living rooms. We’ve created a mosque area in the living room, we’ve put out various prayer mats and ornaments.
“One of the other big changes is that we are listening to a lot of digital lectures and talks online. It helps substitute the communal aspect we would’ve had in the mosque. This Ramadan is more introspective and it’s a more family focused one.
“I’m hoping to adapt and spiritually benefit.”