birminghammail--2020-06-08--Jokanovic, Bowyer, Warnock: Hot takes on names linked with Blues

The search for Birmingham City ’ s next manager is on following Pep Clotet ’ s decision to step down at the end of the season .
The Spaniard ’ s successor will be the sixth appointed by the current owners since they took control of the club less than four years ago .
Inevitably the maelstrom of uncertainty and surprise at the announcement has seen several candidates suggested , with the club thought to be looking for an experienced manager , ideally with a track record of promotion .
The bookmakers have their feelings on the subject , installing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hughton and Slavisa Jokanovic at the top of the odds .
Blues writer Brian Dick gives his hot takes on the names he has seen suggested and the ones suggested to him .
Remember , things will change as the situation unfolds , expressions of interest are made and candidates rule themselves out – but in the early hours after Clotet ’ s departure was announced , this is the lie of the land .
BD : An absolute Bluenose through and through – and one who is loving working as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The 33-year-old will hang up his boots at the end of the season and start a coaching role with the club but it would be a huge , huge stride to step straight off the pitch and into the head coach ’ s office .
Does Gardner consider himself ready for that ?
Are the board ready to hand the keys to someone just starting his journey ?
The early messages coming out of the club are that they want a candidate with experience .
Presumably of management .
BD : Like Gardner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City as a player and a coach – as part of Steve Cotterill ’ s staff .
The former midfielder showed immense integrity when he stepped down following Cotterill ’ s departure .
As a coach he has a fantastic CV , having worked not only at Blues but for several years at Manchester City and most recently with England Under 21s .
He was caretaker at Blues and Brentford for a period .
Having conducted himself well during his time at the club he has a good relationship with the board – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more times the opportunity will arise for him .
Of all the names , this one makes a lot of sense .
BD : It has been suggested to me – but I have to say uncorroborated , that Jokanovic has already been sounded out , but the finances didn ’ t work .
If true – and I stress that is an if – that ’ s been a running theme over the last couple of jobs with which the Serb has been linked , notably at West Brom a year ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ record having guided Watford and Fulham into the Premier League but as manager of Al-Gharafa he ’ d need extracting from that contact and paying top dollar .
BD : Another name that has been put to me following his departure from Luton last month .
Jones certainly has the coaching pedigree having been a long-term part of Roberto Martinez ’ s set-up , from Swansea , to Wigan , to Everton , all the way up to the Belgian national team .
He also worked with Darren Moore at West Brom before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Mick Harford got the Hatters promoted .
It was uphill for the 50-year-old at Kenilworth Road , in what was his first managerial role and this might depend on whether the club prioritise the coaching expertise with experience as a No .
1 .
BD : Not a name that has been mentioned to me but one that has been doing the rounds on social media and one that has obvious connections as a former Birmingham City player .
The ex-Leeds and Newcastle midfielder received a rapturous reception when Blues went to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he ’ d certainly be a popular choice .
Other than that I can ’ t offer much insight into whether he ’ s an actual contender at this stage , other than to point at the ownership issues at The Valley – and the fact he led the Addicks to promotion .
BD : As I understand it there has not yet been any contact between Blues and Hughton despite the fact the former boss has been out of management for over a year .
He ’ s had plenty of offers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find a situation that appeals to him .
His credentials are very high , articulate , a steady hand and well connected .
It is worth noting he did walk out on Blues in 2013 and that Brighton supporters were not enamoured with the style of play in the Premier League towards the end of his tenure .
It looked fine to me though when the Seagulls were promoted in May 2017 and Solly March was tearing up and down the wings .
He ’ d be another popular choice if he felt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for him .
BD : Another name that has been put forward on the grapevine – the former Sheffield Wednesday boss took the Owls to the play-offs only to lose in the 2016 final to Hull City .
The following season they were eliminated in the play-offs by Huddersfield on penalties .
Things unravelled shortly after that and he moved to Swansea but couldn ’ t keep them in the Premier League .
Now at Rio Ave in Portugal , where he is out of contract at the end of the current campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close to the European places in Primeira Liga and have recently gone on a run of nine games unbeaten .
He is thought to be keen to return to England – but it is not clear whether he or Blues are interested in each other .
BD : I ’ ve not heard anything concrete on this one , just seen the name on social media and in the betting , He certainly fits the bill in terms of experience and a record of promotion - in fact there ’ s no-one better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the ‘ modern footballing philosophy ’ required this time last summer .
But would the board be prepared to sacrifice such sensitivities if the old master worked his magic one last time ?
.
One for getting up , not necessarily staying up .

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The search for Birmingham City’s next manager is on following Pep Clotet’s decision to step down at the end of the season.
The Spaniard’s successor will be the sixth appointed by the current owners since they took control of the club less than four years ago.
Inevitably the maelstrom of uncertainty and surprise at the announcement has seen several candidates suggested, with the club thought to be looking for an experienced manager, ideally with a track record of promotion.
The bookmakers have their feelings on the subject, installing the likes of Craig Gardner, Chris Hughton and Slavisa Jokanovic at the top of the odds.
Blues writer Brian Dick gives his hot takes on the names he has seen suggested and the ones suggested to him.
Remember, things will change as the situation unfolds, expressions of interest are made and candidates rule themselves out – but in the early hours after Clotet’s departure was announced, this is the lie of the land.
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Craig Gardner
BD: An absolute Bluenose through and through – and one who is loving working as part of Pep Clotet’s backroom team.
The 33-year-old will hang up his boots at the end of the season and start a coaching role with the club but it would be a huge, huge stride to step straight off the pitch and into the head coach’s office.
Does Gardner consider himself ready for that? Are the board ready to hand the keys to someone just starting his journey?
The early messages coming out of the club are that they want a candidate with experience. Presumably of management.
Lee Carsley
BD: Like Gardner, Carsley has already been at Birmingham City as a player and a coach – as part of Steve Cotterill’s staff.
The former midfielder showed immense integrity when he stepped down following Cotterill’s departure.
As a coach he has a fantastic CV, having worked not only at Blues but for several years at Manchester City and most recently with England Under 21s.
He was caretaker at Blues and Brentford for a period.
Having conducted himself well during his time at the club he has a good relationship with the board – and at 46-years-old one wonders how many more times the opportunity will arise for him.
Of all the names, this one makes a lot of sense.
Slavisa Jokanovic
BD: It has been suggested to me – but I have to say uncorroborated, that Jokanovic has already been sounded out, but the finances didn’t work.
If true – and I stress that is an if – that’s been a running theme over the last couple of jobs with which the Serb has been linked, notably at West Brom a year ago.
He undoubtedly has an excellent track record having guided Watford and Fulham into the Premier League but as manager of Al-Gharafa he’d need extracting from that contact and paying top dollar.
Graeme Jones
BD: Another name that has been put to me following his departure from Luton last month.
Jones certainly has the coaching pedigree having been a long-term part of Roberto Martinez’s set-up, from Swansea, to Wigan, to Everton, all the way up to the Belgian national team.
He also worked with Darren Moore at West Brom before stepping into the vacant position at Luton after Mick Harford got the Hatters promoted.
It was uphill for the 50-year-old at Kenilworth Road, in what was his first managerial role and this might depend on whether the club prioritise the coaching expertise with experience as a No. 1.
Lee Bowyer
BD: Not a name that has been mentioned to me but one that has been doing the rounds on social media and one that has obvious connections as a former Birmingham City player.
The ex-Leeds and Newcastle midfielder received a rapturous reception when Blues went to Charlton Athletic earlier in the season and he’d certainly be a popular choice.
Other than that I can’t offer much insight into whether he’s an actual contender at this stage, other than to point at the ownership issues at The Valley – and the fact he led the Addicks to promotion.
Chris Hughton
BD: As I understand it there has not yet been any contact between Blues and Hughton despite the fact the former boss has been out of management for over a year.
He’s had plenty of offers during that hiatus but is yet to find a situation that appeals to him.
His credentials are very high, articulate, a steady hand and well connected. It is worth noting he did walk out on Blues in 2013 and that Brighton supporters were not enamoured with the style of play in the Premier League towards the end of his tenure.
It looked fine to me though when the Seagulls were promoted in May 2017 and Solly March was tearing up and down the wings. He’d be another popular choice if he felt Blues were the ‘right project’ for him.
Carlos Carvalhal
BD: Another name that has been put forward on the grapevine – the former Sheffield Wednesday boss took the Owls to the play-offs only to lose in the 2016 final to Hull City.
The following season they were eliminated in the play-offs by Huddersfield on penalties.
Things unravelled shortly after that and he moved to Swansea but couldn’t keep them in the Premier League.
Now at Rio Ave in Portugal, where he is out of contract at the end of the current campaign.
They are playing good football, close to the European places in Primeira Liga and have recently gone on a run of nine games unbeaten.
He is thought to be keen to return to England – but it is not clear whether he or Blues are interested in each other.
Neil Warnock
BD: I’ve not heard anything concrete on this one, just seen the name on social media and in the betting,
He certainly fits the bill in terms of experience and a record of promotion - in fact there’s no-one better.
It’d be some departure from the ‘modern footballing philosophy’ required this time last summer.
But would the board be prepared to sacrifice such sensitivities if the old master worked his magic one last time?. One for getting up, not necessarily staying up.


birminghammail--2020-06-08--Pub gardens could re-open on June 22

Pub gardens could re-open on June 22

If you 've been yearning for a pint or two in a beer garden during lockdown then it 's good news , as pub gardens could re-open earlier than planned .
The Government is reportedly working towards allowing some pubs and restaurants to begin trading again , reports the MEN .
Although many boozers , bars and restaurants have opted to serve takeaway as well as deliveries , they were not expected to re-open until at least July 4 .
But in a bid to save the hospitality industry , Chancellor Rishi Sunak is said to be among six ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ' pushing to kick-start the trade by June 22 , according to the Financial Times .
The other ministers in the group are said to be Robert Jenrick , housing and local government secretary , cabinet office minister Michael Gove , transport secretary Grant Shapps , and culture secretary Oliver Dowden .
Hospitality bosses say that 3.5 million jobs could be on the line if the government does not act quickly .
Several senior Whitehall officials have reportedly confirmed the date .
Mr Sunak is said to be keen for beer gardens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a bid to maintain social distancing .
The moves could also pave the way for reopening all cafes and restaurants - with cinemas , concert venues and theatres not far behind .
But trade association UK Hospitality has said that the two-metre distancing rule will prevent businesses from operating profitably .
Boris Johnson is keen to reduce this measure and said he was 'much more optimistic ' than previously .
The Prime Minister is also understood to have asked Sage scientists to review the social distancing rules .
Business Secretary Alok Sharma @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this can safely be halved in order to help struggling venues .
The Covid-19 pandemic has hit the hospitality industry hard with the government urging people to stay away from bars and restaurants before the UK went into lockdown .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Daisy Jackson, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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If you've been yearning for a pint or two in a beer garden during lockdown then it's good news, as pub gardens could re-open earlier than planned.
The Government is reportedly working towards allowing some pubs and restaurants to begin trading again, reports the MEN.
Although many boozers, bars and restaurants have opted to serve takeaway as well as deliveries, they were not expected to re-open until at least July 4.
But in a bid to save the hospitality industry, Chancellor Rishi Sunak is said to be among six ministers - calling themselves the 'Save Summer Six,' pushing to kick-start the trade by June 22, according to the Financial Times.
The other ministers in the group are said to be Robert Jenrick, housing and local government secretary, cabinet office minister Michael Gove, transport secretary Grant Shapps, and culture secretary Oliver Dowden.
Hospitality bosses say that 3.5 million jobs could be on the line if the government does not act quickly.
Several senior Whitehall officials have reportedly confirmed the date.
Mr Sunak is said to be keen for beer gardens, marquees and terraces to be used in a bid to maintain social distancing.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The moves could also pave the way for reopening all cafes and restaurants - with cinemas, concert venues and theatres not far behind.
But trade association UK Hospitality has said that the two-metre distancing rule will prevent businesses from operating profitably.
Boris Johnson is keen to reduce this measure and said he was 'much more optimistic' than previously. The Prime Minister is also understood to have asked Sage scientists to review the social distancing rules.
Business Secretary Alok Sharma is also reportedly set to argue that this can safely be halved in order to help struggling venues.
The Covid-19 pandemic has hit the hospitality industry hard with the government urging people to stay away from bars and restaurants before the UK went into lockdown.


birminghammail--2020-06-08--'We all make mistakes' - First interview with controversial deputy PCC

The man controversially appointed as Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner says he is not interested in 'political point scoring ' , and is simply focused on serving the public .
Forty-year-old Waheed Saleem was appointed to the role by Police and Crime Commissioner ( PCC ) David Jamieson earlier this year , despite being rejected by the region 's Police and Crime Panel , who claimed he was 'unfit ' for the role .
The rejection related in part to controversial episodes from Mr Saleem 's past , including when he received a one-year ban from serving in public office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ councillor back in 2004 .
Responding to the Police and Crime Panel , PCC David Jamieson claimed the rejection was 'ill-founded and cheap ' , a move which has sparked fury with councillors on the panel .
However , in his first interview since he was confirmed for the position , Mr Saleem said it is time to move on from his past , insisting that he is more than capable of succeeding in the role given his experience .
`` If other people want to concentrate on political point scoring , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then that ’ s for them to answer , '' he said .
`` For me it ’ s about doing my job .
Yeah I ’ ve had a rough couple of weeks with the headlines etc , but I ’ m here to serve the public , and that ’ s what I ’ m concentrating on .
`` We all make mistakes , as people would say , and the important part of that is what you learn from those mistakes .
And I learnt a significant amount from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Over the last 18 years I have spent my life in public service - I have given back , and I have proven myself to the people that I can do high profile roles .
I could have just gone off and never come back into public life , but that ’ s not me .
Public service runs through my bones and through my veins , and I want to make a difference and do the right thing .
`` I just want to draw a line under my past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too , and look at all the significant positive stuff I ’ ve done .
My CV is a testament to that , and that ’ s why David appointed me to this role .
`` My critics can not say that I don ’ t have the experience , expertise and knowledge to do the job , because I do . ''
Recent media headlines have suggested that Mr Saleem was 'embroiled ' in the Trojan Horse scandal back in 2014/15 , though he was keen to point out that his appointment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Park View School took place after the scandal took place .
And he wants to move on from discussions around his past onto some of his priorities in the new role - including increasing the representation of BME officers on the force , something which he says is 'crucial ' in the wake of protests over the death of George Floyd in America .
`` Diversity and equality has been a fundamental principle that I ’ ve worked on and promoted throughout my career , '' he said .
`` What happened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is a stark reminder to us that policing needs to be done with the consent of the people , and that proportionality is the fundamental principle of policing .
`` The grievances and the issues that people are raising are very relevant , and we all need to work together irrespective of our background , to deal with these issues in a constructive way and to make a real difference .
`` It 's crucial that the police force is representative of our communities , and that communities have confidence in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police force doesn ’ t look like the communities they serve , there ’ s no legitimacy in policing .
`` I was out at the protests last week , from 4 o ’ clock all the way til 9 o ’ clock looking at policing and at how we responded to the demonstration .
`` The protest was done in a safe and peaceful way , and the message was very clear to all of us that racism has no place in our society , and that racism plays no part in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to be committed to work on that issue , and continuously have that at the forefront .
`` My major commitment over the next 12 months is to ensure that we continue on that journey , that we increase the number of BME applicants and BME officers appointed into post , and that the communities see West Midlands Police as an equal opportunities and a great employer for them , and an employer that they can have a great career in as well . ''
While making the police force representative is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Saleem has other areas of focus too - such as taking a tougher approach to fraud by setting up a national fraud group and doing more to tackle the impact of youth unemployment .
But one thing that Mr Saleem is particularly passionate about is improving victim support services within the police .
He believes that one of the issues with the services today is that victims have no real confidence that their case is being dealt with - something which he wants to see change over the next 12 months .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ services from domestic violence and sexual violence to general victim support services , '' he said .
`` Over the past year I have actually been out and visited the services that we commission , and I ’ ve spoken to victims of domestic violence , victims of sexual abuse and violence and stalking , and the main issue that came out is the fact that we still in policing and the criminal justice system do not give them the confidence that their issues are being dealt with .
`` So reporting of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that ’ s really great to see that .
But in the public reports you ’ ll see some of the positive outcomes for domestic violence are actually going down .
And I won ’ t rehearse the issues around rape convictions and how long they are in the UK .
`` But we need to do more around that .
And so what I was keen on doing is looking at those particular issues .
So over the next 12 months I ’ ll be looking at that particularly and understanding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And it ’ s more important now than ever before because , although through the lockdown there ’ s been a slight decrease in domestic violence reporting , we ’ re seeing quite significant numbers of people who have been in lockdown coming out and reporting domestic violence issues and also sexual violence and abuse as well . ''

The man controversially appointed as Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner says he is not interested in 'political point scoring', and is simply focused on serving the public.
Forty-year-old Waheed Saleem was appointed to the role by Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Jamieson earlier this year, despite being rejected by the region's Police and Crime Panel, who claimed he was 'unfit' for the role.
The rejection related in part to controversial episodes from Mr Saleem's past, including when he received a one-year ban from serving in public office after leaking sensitive information as a Walsall councillor back in 2004.
Responding to the Police and Crime Panel, PCC David Jamieson claimed the rejection was 'ill-founded and cheap', a move which has sparked fury with councillors on the panel.
However, in his first interview since he was confirmed for the position, Mr Saleem said it is time to move on from his past, insisting that he is more than capable of succeeding in the role given his experience.
"If other people want to concentrate on political point scoring, and that’s what their priorities are, then that’s for them to answer," he said.
"For me it’s about doing my job. Yeah I’ve had a rough couple of weeks with the headlines etc, but I’m here to serve the public, and that’s what I’m concentrating on.
"We all make mistakes, as people would say, and the important part of that is what you learn from those mistakes. And I learnt a significant amount from that time [as a councillor].
"Over the last 18 years I have spent my life in public service - I have given back, and I have proven myself to the people that I can do high profile roles. I could have just gone off and never come back into public life, but that’s not me. Public service runs through my bones and through my veins, and I want to make a difference and do the right thing.
"I just want to draw a line under my past, and I wish other people would too, and look at all the significant positive stuff I’ve done. My CV is a testament to that, and that’s why David appointed me to this role.
"My critics cannot say that I don’t have the experience, expertise and knowledge to do the job, because I do."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Recent media headlines have suggested that Mr Saleem was 'embroiled' in the Trojan Horse scandal back in 2014/15, though he was keen to point out that his appointment as director of the board of governors at Park View School took place after the scandal took place.
And he wants to move on from discussions around his past onto some of his priorities in the new role - including increasing the representation of BME officers on the force, something which he says is 'crucial' in the wake of protests over the death of George Floyd in America.
"Diversity and equality has been a fundamental principle that I’ve worked on and promoted throughout my career," he said.
"What happened with George Floyd was a tragedy, and is a stark reminder to us that policing needs to be done with the consent of the people, and that proportionality is the fundamental principle of policing.
"The grievances and the issues that people are raising are very relevant, and we all need to work together irrespective of our background, to deal with these issues in a constructive way and to make a real difference.
"It's crucial that the police force is representative of our communities, and that communities have confidence in the policing as well. Because if the police force doesn’t look like the communities they serve, there’s no legitimacy in policing.
"I was out at the protests last week, from 4 o’clock all the way til 9 o’clock looking at policing and at how we responded to the demonstration.
"The protest was done in a safe and peaceful way, and the message was very clear to all of us that racism has no place in our society, and that racism plays no part in our policing either. And that we need to be committed to work on that issue, and continuously have that at the forefront.
"My major commitment over the next 12 months is to ensure that we continue on that journey, that we increase the number of BME applicants and BME officers appointed into post, and that the communities see West Midlands Police as an equal opportunities and a great employer for them, and an employer that they can have a great career in as well."
While making the police force representative is at the forefront of his mind, Mr Saleem has other areas of focus too - such as taking a tougher approach to fraud by setting up a national fraud group and doing more to tackle the impact of youth unemployment.
But one thing that Mr Saleem is particularly passionate about is improving victim support services within the police.
He believes that one of the issues with the services today is that victims have no real confidence that their case is being dealt with - something which he wants to see change over the next 12 months.
"We commission a range of support services from domestic violence and sexual violence to general victim support services," he said.
"Over the past year I have actually been out and visited the services that we commission, and I’ve spoken to victims of domestic violence, victims of sexual abuse and violence and stalking, and the main issue that came out is the fact that we still in policing and the criminal justice system do not give them the confidence that their issues are being dealt with.
"So reporting of domestic violence has actually increased dramatically, and that’s really great to see that. But in the public reports you’ll see some of the positive outcomes for domestic violence are actually going down. And I won’t rehearse the issues around rape convictions and how long they are in the UK.
"But we need to do more around that. And so what I was keen on doing is looking at those particular issues. So over the next 12 months I’ll be looking at that particularly and understanding what those particular issues are.
"And it’s more important now than ever before because, although through the lockdown there’s been a slight decrease in domestic violence reporting, we’re seeing quite significant numbers of people who have been in lockdown coming out and reporting domestic violence issues and also sexual violence and abuse as well."


birminghammail--2020-06-08--Hospital worker etches thank you to colleagues who saved her life

A hospital staff member who owes her life to the very colleagues she works alongside is set to thank them with a permanent reminder of all they did for her .
Siobhàn Gordon , head of Quality Hub & Healthcare Standards at Worcestershire Royal Hospital was rushed by ambulance to the hospital in February after suffering a heart attack .
There she went to the cardiac catheterisation lab and underwent a lifesaving angioplasty .
The treatment helps boost the blood supply to the heart , with a balloon gently inflated inside the coronary artery , and often a stainless steel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood flow normally again .
Siobhàn , who had never experienced heart problems before and had worked at Worcestershire Royal for five years , said : “ I was starting to feel really tired at work about 6 months before my heart attack and breathless when walking around .
That day changed my life.
” Having spent five days on the coronary care unit after her heart attack Siobhàn praised her colleagues who cared for her that day .
She said : “ The team were amazing , calm , caring and considerate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand was held and I was constantly reassured .
“ The team worked fast and the communication between them was amazing to listen to .
I was still scared but in awe of their skill and determination .
Once my stent was inserted , I felt instantly better .
The care from the coronary care team was simply exceptional.
” During her recovery at home Siobhàn decided she wanted to pay tribute to both the colleagues that saved her life , and Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust , by having their names engraved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Steel .
The Heart of Steel is a monumental sculpture in Yorkshire with space to engrave 150,000 names .
Anyone can donate to the British Heart Foundation and have their name , or the name of someone they love , inscribed on the Heart .
Donations help to fund research into cures and treatments for heart and circulatory diseases , which kill one in four people in the UK .
Each member of staff who were involved in Siobhàn ’ s care will also receive a certificate to say their name will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you .
Siobhàn said : “ I ’ m so extremely proud and privileged to work with such amazing people and extremely grateful for everything they have done for me and my family.
” She is looking forward to re-joining her colleagues but says the experience has changed her outlook on life .
“ My perspective towards life has changed , and I will spend more time relaxing with my family and friends .
Having a supportive family and wonderful work colleagues has made my journey and recovery process much easier and not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t found me and called the ambulance I wouldn ’ t be here today .
”

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A hospital staff member who owes her life to the very colleagues she works alongside is set to thank them with a permanent reminder of all they did for her.
Siobhàn Gordon, head of Quality Hub & Healthcare Standards at Worcestershire Royal Hospital was rushed by ambulance to the hospital in February after suffering a heart attack. There she went to the cardiac catheterisation lab and underwent a lifesaving angioplasty.
The treatment helps boost the blood supply to the heart, with a balloon gently inflated inside the coronary artery, and often a stainless steel mesh called a stent inserted to help blood flow normally again.
Siobhàn, who had never experienced heart problems before and had worked at Worcestershire Royal for five years, said: “I was starting to feel really tired at work about 6 months before my heart attack and breathless when walking around. That day changed my life.”
Having spent five days on the coronary care unit after her heart attack Siobhàn praised her colleagues who cared for her that day. She said: “The team were amazing, calm, caring and considerate, they were all smiling and my hand was held and I was constantly reassured.
“The team worked fast and the communication between them was amazing to listen to. I was still scared but in awe of their skill and determination. Once my stent was inserted, I felt instantly better. The care from the coronary care team was simply exceptional.”
During her recovery at home Siobhàn decided she wanted to pay tribute to both the colleagues that saved her life, and Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, by having their names engraved on the British Heart Foundation Heart of Steel.
The Heart of Steel is a monumental sculpture in Yorkshire with space to engrave 150,000 names. Anyone can donate to the British Heart Foundation and have their name, or the name of someone they love, inscribed on the Heart. Donations help to fund research into cures and treatments for heart and circulatory diseases, which kill one in four people in the UK.
Each member of staff who were involved in Siobhàn’s care will also receive a certificate to say their name will be included on the sculpture as a thank you.
Siobhàn said: “I’m so extremely proud and privileged to work with such amazing people and extremely grateful for everything they have done for me and my family.”
She is looking forward to re-joining her colleagues but says the experience has changed her outlook on life.
“My perspective towards life has changed, and I will spend more time relaxing with my family and friends. Having a supportive family and wonderful work colleagues has made my journey and recovery process much easier and not forgetting that if my son hadn’t found me and called the ambulance I wouldn’t be here today.”


birminghammail--2020-06-08--Watch as woman fends off man with crutch - as she's asked for her money and bag

This is the moment a brave pensioner uses her walking stick to fend off an alleged attempted robber at a cashpoint .
CCTV footage shows the white-haired lady using the Lloyds ATM on Weoley Castle Road , Weoley castle , when a young man dressed in an all black tracksuit and cap appears .
The man lurks closely behind before allegedly demanding the woman 'hands over her bag , card and cash ' .
She refuses and is seen repeatedly jabbing a man with her walking stick , and points it towards his stomach as he leans against the cashpoint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the frame and is seen almost slapping the first man on the head .
They both leave the scene together .
Police are now appealing for information about the incident which happened at 2pm on April 15 .
West Midlands Police said : “ We want to talk to him after he allegedly tried to rob a woman at a cashpoint in # WeoleyCastle - but she fended him off with her crutch .
“ The woman was repeatedly asked to hand over her bank card , money and bag as she used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at about 2pm on 15 April .
“ But he left empty-handed , with a second man , after she shouted out and waved her crutch at him.
” Anyone with information can contact us , quoting 20BW/90988H/20 via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight , call 101 anytime , or to stay anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .

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This is the moment a brave pensioner uses her walking stick to fend off an alleged attempted robber at a cashpoint.
CCTV footage shows the white-haired lady using the Lloyds ATM on Weoley Castle Road, Weoley castle, when a young man dressed in an all black tracksuit and cap appears.
The man lurks closely behind before allegedly demanding the woman 'hands over her bag, card and cash'.
(Image: WMP)
She refuses and is seen repeatedly jabbing a man with her walking stick, and points it towards his stomach as he leans against the cashpoint wall.
Another man then comes into the frame and is seen almost slapping the first man on the head. They both leave the scene together.
Police are now appealing for information about the incident which happened at 2pm on April 15.
West Midlands Police said: “We want to talk to him after he allegedly tried to rob a woman at a cashpoint in #WeoleyCastle - but she fended him off with her crutch.
“The woman was repeatedly asked to hand over her bank card, money and bag as she used the Lloyds ATM in Weoley Castle Road, at about 2pm on 15 April.
“But he left empty-handed, with a second man, after she shouted out and waved her crutch at him.”
Anyone with information can contact us, quoting 20BW/90988H/20 via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, call 101 anytime, or to stay anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-06-09--McDonald's announces breakfast menu will return from June 24

McDonald 's has confirmed its breakfast menu will return later this month .
Issuing a statement today , the fast food giant confirmed it will re-open takeaway restaurants at Roadchef service stations next week .
McDonald 's was forced to shutter restaurants across the country in mid-March as the coronavirus crisis gripped the UK .
But last week it re-opened around 1,000 drive-thrus , including a swathe of Birmingham fast food outlets , and branches in Worcester , the Black Country , Staffordshire and beyond .
Today , the fast food giant confirmed : `` We 're getting ready to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Roadchef service stations next week , we 'll confirm the locations nearer the time . ''
And it added : `` From 24th June , a number of restaurants will test the return of breakfast service .
If successful , we hope to reintroduce the much-missed McMuffin across the UK and Ireland later in July .
We will confirm which restaurants nearer the time . ''
Currently , McDonald 's branches which have been given the green light to re-open are limiting their menus .
McDonald 's are re-opening from 11am with no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So far McDonald 's has opened up 852 restaurants for drive-thru only , 56 for delivery , with another 26 offering both .
You can find opening times and the service available at your local branch on the McDonald 's website .

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McDonald's has confirmed its breakfast menu will return later this month.
Issuing a statement today, the fast food giant confirmed it will re-open takeaway restaurants at Roadchef service stations next week.
McDonald's was forced to shutter restaurants across the country in mid-March as the coronavirus crisis gripped the UK.
But last week it re-opened around 1,000 drive-thrus, including a swathe of Birmingham fast food outlets, and branches in Worcester, the Black Country, Staffordshire and beyond.
Today, the fast food giant confirmed: "We're getting ready to reopen for takeaway, starting with 11 Roadchef service stations next week, we'll confirm the locations nearer the time."
And it added: "From 24th June, a number of restaurants will test the return of breakfast service. If successful, we hope to reintroduce the much-missed McMuffin across the UK and Ireland later in July. We will confirm which restaurants nearer the time."
Currently, McDonald's branches which have been given the green light to re-open are limiting their menus.
McDonald's are re-opening from 11am with no breakfast menu, wraps or milkshakes available.
So far McDonald's has opened up 852 restaurants for drive-thru only, 56 for delivery, with another 26 offering both.
You can find opening times and the service available at your local branch on the McDonald's website.


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Calls for Galton Bridge to be renamed due to slave trade links

Campaigners have called for Galton Bridge in Smethwick to be renamed due to its links to the slave trade .
It comes after anti-racism protesters in Bristol pulled down a statue of 17th century slave trader and pushed it into the city harbour .
The bronze memorial of Edward Colston , known as a great English philanthropist as well as slave trader was erected in 1895 .
Samuel Galton Jnr lived in Great Barr Hall and in the 1750s and his family manufactured guns for African traders , who exchanged them for slaves .
This later led to him being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after an argument with Thomas Clarkson , a leading anti-slavery campaigner .
Galton Bridge in Smethwick was named in Samuel 's honour .
He is also remembered in a Lunar Society monument outside Queslett Road Asda and a tower block in the centre of the city is named after him .
Martin Lynch , of Black Country Stand Up to Racism , told Black Country Live : `` Places and buildings that carry the names of people who were involved in the slave trade in various ways must be renamed without any undue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that those who were involved in the unspeakably vile business are celebrated in any way .
Their crimes need to be remembered in the history books , not affirmed in our communities or on our streets . ''
Community activist , Bishop Desmond Jaddoo , said he believed in a `` name and shame '' approach .
`` At the end of the day , we need a society that not only acknowledges its rich history but the ills of the past , '' he said .
`` The blood , sweat and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black African-Caribbean people - contributed to that rich heritage . ''
He said instead of renaming or tearing statues down , people should `` share the history '' .
`` My view is that we should be talking about why it 's named after them so that people know , '' he said .
`` These things are a reminder of past indiscrections . ''
Dr Joe Aldred , a prominent broadcaster , writer and ecumenist believes renaming the bridge is just one step and should lead to further education on the issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the slavery trade , the history of colonialism and the people who participated in that history tend to be known only for their good deeds .
`` Many people knew Colstan as a philanthropist and that is true for many others like him .
`` The pulling down of statues and renaming of monuments can be necessary to start the conversation .
`` However , simply pulling down a statue and erasing history doesn ’ t get you very far .
`` More education is needed , it ’ s not about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s an education that will lead to a proper realigning of history .
`` Figures who were once thought of as icons should be put into a proper perspective .
`` In the Midlands , we are a mixed culture , mixed ethnicity , mixed-faith and we need to get to understand each other better by listening to each other .
`` If the bridge is to be renamed , it should be a community conversation to decide what the new name should be . ''
The call for further education was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Galton Bridge as well as Farmer 's Bridge Locks should be renamed as it also has links to the slave trade .
The former professor of sociology , politics and international studies at Bristol University said : `` Rewriting the plaque would allow us to acknowledge that we have celebrated this for a long time and acknowledge that it is very troubling .
Then we can intervene in the conversation about what we have been doing for so long .
`` That is something that will help us understand the society we live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collectively work towards solutions . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Kelly Ashmore, Oprah Flash)

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Campaigners have called for Galton Bridge in Smethwick to be renamed due to its links to the slave trade.
It comes after anti-racism protesters in Bristol pulled down a statue of 17th century slave trader and pushed it into the city harbour.
The bronze memorial of Edward Colston, known as a great English philanthropist as well as slave trader was erected in 1895.
Samuel Galton Jnr lived in Great Barr Hall and in the 1750s and his family manufactured guns for African traders, who exchanged them for slaves.
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This later led to him being disowned by the Quaker Society of Friends after an argument with Thomas Clarkson, a leading anti-slavery campaigner.
Galton Bridge in Smethwick was named in Samuel's honour.
He is also remembered in a Lunar Society monument outside Queslett Road Asda and a tower block in the centre of the city is named after him.
Martin Lynch, of Black Country Stand Up to Racism, told Black Country Live: "Places and buildings that carry the names of people who were involved in the slave trade in various ways must be renamed without any undue delay.
"It is simply unacceptable that those who were involved in the unspeakably vile business are celebrated in any way. Their crimes need to be remembered in the history books, not affirmed in our communities or on our streets."
Community activist, Bishop Desmond Jaddoo, said he believed in a "name and shame" approach.
"At the end of the day, we need a society that not only acknowledges its rich history but the ills of the past," he said.
"The blood, sweat and tears of people of colour - particularly black African-Caribbean people - contributed to that rich heritage."
He said instead of renaming or tearing statues down, people should "share the history".
"My view is that we should be talking about why it's named after them so that people know," he said.
"These things are a reminder of past indiscrections."
Dr Joe Aldred, a prominent broadcaster, writer and ecumenist believes renaming the bridge is just one step and should lead to further education on the issue.
He said: “The history of the slavery trade, the history of colonialism and the people who participated in that history tend to be known only for their good deeds.
"Many people knew Colstan as a philanthropist and that is true for many others like him.
"The pulling down of statues and renaming of monuments can be necessary to start the conversation.
"However, simply pulling down a statue and erasing history doesn’t get you very far.
"More education is needed, it’s not about washing away the evil acts, it’s an education that will lead to a proper realigning of history.
"Figures who were once thought of as icons should be put into a proper perspective.
"In the Midlands, we are a mixed culture, mixed ethnicity, mixed-faith and we need to get to understand each other better by listening to each other.
"If the bridge is to be renamed, it should be a community conversation to decide what the new name should be."
What is Black Lives Matter? Founded in 2013 after George Zimmerman was acquitted of shooting and killing Trayvon Martin on the grounds of self-defence, Black Lives Matter have spent years protesting and demonstrating against racism and inequality. Although it has origins in the US, Black Lives Matter has become an international movement with supporters across the world holding protests and demonstrations in a variety of countries including Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. You can learn more about Black Lives Matter on their website .
The call for further education was supported by Dr Nathaniel Tobias who believes Galton Bridge as well as Farmer's Bridge Locks should be renamed as it also has links to the slave trade.
The former professor of sociology, politics and international studies at Bristol University said: "Rewriting the plaque would allow us to acknowledge that we have celebrated this for a long time and acknowledge that it is very troubling. Then we can intervene in the conversation about what we have been doing for so long.
"That is something that will help us understand the society we live in and how just it is and collectively work towards solutions."


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Hollyoaks launch investigation after star Rachel Adedeji's racism claims

Hollyoaks bosses have admitted there is `` further work to do '' after one of the soap 's stars said she had experienced racism while working on the show .
The Channel 4 series is introducing new measures - including bringing in `` unconscious bias trainers '' - to tackle racial inequality among its cast and crew .
Lime Pictures , which produces the soap , released a statement after actress Rachel Adedeji said on Friday that `` very little is being done behind the scenes '' to address issues around racial inequality .
She said her `` fellow black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and too vocal '' and described Hollyoaks ' response to the Black Lives Matter movement as `` performative and disingenuous '' .
Lime Pictures said it `` strives to have zero tolerance of racism or any form of discrimination '' but that it is `` very conscious '' more needs to be done .
The company said it is reaching out to cast and staff members who have raised concerns and encouraging those who have not already done so to voice any issues they might have .
The soap is also working with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ processes .
All BAME ( Black , Asian and minority ethnic ) staff , freelancers and cast will be offered mentoring from Lime Pictures ' senior management .
Its BAME writers and directors schemes will also be reviewed .
There will also be a Hollyoaks podcast where black cast members will share their experiences of racism .
A spokeswoman for Lime Pictures said : `` Hollyoaks has been deeply shocked and saddened by issues that have been brought to our attention over the weekend .
`` Lime Pictures strives to have zero tolerance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across all of its shows but it is clear we have further work to do .
`` We must stamp out implicit bias , which means calling out racism wherever and whenever we see it .
`` We will continue to add to our action plan as we continue and broaden our dialogue with cast and staff . ''
The statement continued : `` We are very conscious that we need to do more and are committed to making changes that we need to make .
`` The onus is upon our company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our community to tackle racism , and it is a responsibility which all of us here at Hollyoaks are taking on fully . ''
There has been increased scrutiny over the treatment of BAME cast and crew members following the death of George Floyd in the US , the unarmed black man who died after a white police officer knelt on his neck , sparking protests around the world .

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Hollyoaks bosses have admitted there is "further work to do" after one of the soap's stars said she had experienced racism while working on the show.
The Channel 4 series is introducing new measures - including bringing in "unconscious bias trainers" - to tackle racial inequality among its cast and crew.
Lime Pictures, which produces the soap, released a statement after actress Rachel Adedeji said on Friday that "very little is being done behind the scenes" to address issues around racial inequality.
She said her "fellow black cast mates are deemed angry, aggressive and too vocal" and described Hollyoaks' response to the Black Lives Matter movement as "performative and disingenuous".
Lime Pictures said it "strives to have zero tolerance of racism or any form of discrimination" but that it is "very conscious" more needs to be done.
The company said it is reaching out to cast and staff members who have raised concerns and encouraging those who have not already done so to voice any issues they might have.
The soap is also working with unconscious bias trainers to augment its training processes.
All BAME (Black, Asian and minority ethnic) staff, freelancers and cast will be offered mentoring from Lime Pictures' senior management.
Its BAME writers and directors schemes will also be reviewed.
There will also be a Hollyoaks podcast where black cast members will share their experiences of racism.
A spokeswoman for Lime Pictures said: "Hollyoaks has been deeply shocked and saddened by issues that have been brought to our attention over the weekend.
"Lime Pictures strives to have zero tolerance of racism or any form of discrimination across all of its shows but it is clear we have further work to do.
"We must stamp out implicit bias, which means calling out racism wherever and whenever we see it.
"We will continue to add to our action plan as we continue and broaden our dialogue with cast and staff."
The statement continued: "We are very conscious that we need to do more and are committed to making changes that we need to make.
"The onus is upon our company collectively and us all as individuals within our community to tackle racism, and it is a responsibility which all of us here at Hollyoaks are taking on fully."
There has been increased scrutiny over the treatment of BAME cast and crew members following the death of George Floyd in the US, the unarmed black man who died after a white police officer knelt on his neck, sparking protests around the world.


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Phil Schofield gobsmacked by cougar gran's swipe at his private life

This is the moment Phillip Schofield was left taken aback by a brazen guest 's swipe at his private life during an interview today .
Holly , 39 , welcomed cougar grandmother Gaynor Evans onto the ITV1 daytime favourite on June 9 .
She and Phil were discussing the self-proclaimed cougar 's life in lockdown .
Gaynor was bemoaning how difficult the past few months have been without sexual intercourse .
Gaynor , who has dated over 200 toyboys , said : `` I 've done okay during lockdown and I 've been a well-behaved adult .
`` But it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I ca n't do it much longer , I 'm at the point of no return now .
Even politicians have started to look good . ''
Addressing Phil , she added : `` For the married couples like yourself , and I do n't know what Phil is up to , but anyway people are doing all sorts of things . ''
This Morning viewers flocked to have their say on Twitter , with social media platforms awash with comments after the segment played out .
It must be noted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , smirking to himself after Gaynor 's cutting comments .
This Morning airs at 10am once again on Wednesday with Phil back presenting .

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This is the moment Phillip Schofield was left taken aback by a brazen guest's swipe at his private life during an interview today.
Phil was presenting This Morning alongside regular co-host Holly Willoughby.
Holly, 39, welcomed cougar grandmother Gaynor Evans onto the ITV1 daytime favourite on June 9.
She and Phil were discussing the self-proclaimed cougar's life in lockdown.
Gaynor was bemoaning how difficult the past few months have been without sexual intercourse.
Gaynor, who has dated over 200 toyboys, said: "I've done okay during lockdown and I've been a well-behaved adult.
"But it's ridiculous trying to police illegal sex.
"I can't do it much longer, I'm at the point of no return now. Even politicians have started to look good."
Addressing Phil, she added: "For the married couples like yourself, and I don't know what Phil is up to, but anyway people are doing all sorts of things."
This Morning viewers flocked to have their say on Twitter, with social media platforms awash with comments after the segment played out.
It must be noted Phil took the jibe in good spirits, smirking to himself after Gaynor's cutting comments.
This Morning airs at 10am once again on Wednesday with Phil back presenting.


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Man United fans are livid as Pogba backed to make way for Grealish

Manchester United fans have hit back at claims that Paul Pogba should leave the club to make way for Jack Grealish .
The Aston Villa captain is believed to be on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's transfer wishlist , after an impressive season with his boyhood club .
Grealish was extensively linked with a move to Old Trafford in January , with reports suggesting he snubbed a move in order to guide Villa away from the relegation zone .
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@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to further reports , Man United 's interest in Grealish could be dependent on the future of Pogba , who has made just a handful of Premier League appearances this season .
And former United striker Michael Owen , believes Bruno Fernandes ' form means that his old club should listen to offers for the midfielder - with Grealish a better fit under Solskjaer .
“ Now he ( Pogba ) might just be dispensable if they get a big bid , ” he told Premier League Productions .
“ If I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big money bearing in mind they ’ ve got Fernandes now and then you could go and invest in someone like Grealish .
“ He might have the style that compliments Manchester United better than Pogba does at the moment.
” Despite United fans being keen on signing Grealish when the window opens , the idea of Pogba leaving has not gone down well .
@ IamPatrick001_ : people can be funny sometimes , Grealish replacing who ?
?
if Grealish is Pogba 's replacement then Man United are doomed .
@ ajonyo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Edehpeter17 : It 's like replacing Messi with Chong @ Nas_Man_utd : Why is it always replace .
Why not play together ?

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Manchester United fans have hit back at claims that Paul Pogba should leave the club to make way for Jack Grealish.
The Aston Villa captain is believed to be on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's transfer wishlist, after an impressive season with his boyhood club.
Grealish was extensively linked with a move to Old Trafford in January, with reports suggesting he snubbed a move in order to guide Villa away from the relegation zone.
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According to further reports, Man United's interest in Grealish could be dependent on the future of Pogba, who has made just a handful of Premier League appearances this season.
And former United striker Michael Owen, believes Bruno Fernandes' form means that his old club should listen to offers for the midfielder - with Grealish a better fit under Solskjaer.
“Now he (Pogba) might just be dispensable if they get a big bid,” he told Premier League Productions.
(Image: Anthony Devlin/PA Wire)
“If I was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, I would get big money bearing in mind they’ve got Fernandes now and then you could go and invest in someone like Grealish.
“He might have the style that compliments Manchester United better than Pogba does at the moment.”
Despite United fans being keen on signing Grealish when the window opens, the idea of Pogba leaving has not gone down well.
@Schinonso22: Who's Jack Grealish...pls stop that nonsense
@IamPatrick001_: people can be funny sometimes, Grealish replacing who?? if Grealish is Pogba's replacement then Man United are doomed.
@ajonyo: Tell me this is a joke
@Clittleson: nononononononono
@Tom54630249: Im done
@Luke_Xylem: Dats absolute nonsense
@Edehpeter17: It's like replacing Messi with Chong
@Nas_Man_utd: Why is it always replace. Why not play together?


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Kitten dies after being thrown from moving car

A tiny kitten died after being thrown from a moving car .
The eight-week-old animal was rushed to a vet but could not be saved .
The RSPCA is investigating and West Midlands Police has also been alerted .
The kitten suffered a broken hip and leg after being hurled from a car in Owen Street , Tipton , at around 10.30am on Monday , June 8 .
Animal lovers from the Stray Cat Rescue Team West Midlands said the cat , which they named Dominic , was rushed to White Cross Vets in Wolverhampton byt died during surgery .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ weighed just 650 grams , already had a forever home set up with a worker at the vets ' taking it in .
A spokesman for the rescue group said : `` He died because some horrible , nasty , vile human threw him out of a window .
`` He then went in for emergency surgery on his hip and leg but he crashed while on the table and he died .
His heart stopped and the vets did everything they could to get him back but he was brain dead .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ You see so much heartbreak , but undoubtedly , cruelty is the hardest to deal with .
`` What happened to tiny Dominic really affected us as well as the team at White Cross .
`` One of the girls working at White Cross had fallen in love with him , so he already had his forever home lined up .
`` It was one of the worst days in rescue to date .
`` If anyone witnessed this on Owen Street , Tipton , please message us .
We have reported to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can get Dominic some justice . ''
Anyone with information should call the RSPCA on 0800 1234 999 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jordan Coussins, Charlotte Regen)

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A tiny kitten died after being thrown from a moving car.
The eight-week-old animal was rushed to a vet but could not be saved.
The RSPCA is investigating and West Midlands Police has also been alerted.
The kitten suffered a broken hip and leg after being hurled from a car in Owen Street, Tipton, at around 10.30am on Monday, June 8.
Animal lovers from the Stray Cat Rescue Team West Midlands said the cat, which they named Dominic, was rushed to White Cross Vets in Wolverhampton byt died during surgery.
Th kitten, which was eight-weeks-old and weighed just 650 grams, already had a forever home set up with a worker at the vets' taking it in.
A spokesman for the rescue group said: "He died because some horrible, nasty, vile human threw him out of a window.
"He then went in for emergency surgery on his hip and leg but he crashed while on the table and he died. His heart stopped and the vets did everything they could to get him back but he was brain dead. He likely had internal injuries.
"You see so much heartbreak, but undoubtedly, cruelty is the hardest to deal with.
"What happened to tiny Dominic really affected us as well as the team at White Cross.
"One of the girls working at White Cross had fallen in love with him, so he already had his forever home lined up.
"It was one of the worst days in rescue to date.
"If anyone witnessed this on Owen Street, Tipton, please message us. We have reported to the RSPCA and Police.
"Hopefully we can get Dominic some justice."
Anyone with information should call the RSPCA on 0800 1234 999.


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Birmingham Airbnb owner spared jail over 'death trap' hotel

A Birmingham Airbnb owner has been spared jail after a string of fire safety breaches at a hotel in Blackpool .
Alan Diamond , 46 , was given a nine months suspended sentence after he risked the lives of his guests .
But Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service crews raised a number of concerns about fire safety at the premises , reports LancsLive .
Fire exits were blocked , the smoke alarm was not working , seals and self closing mechanisms were missing from fire doors , electrical sockets were damaged and overloaded , and there was no adequate fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who lived in the basement of the four storey hotel , agreed to voluntarily close the premises to address the problems .
But LFRS later returned to find a number of paying guests who had checked in .
A caretaker who was at the premises tried to instruct the inspectors to leave and at 2pm , officers issued a prohibition notice , ordering the hotel to be closed .
But Preston Crown Court heard the hotel continued to operate .
Lancashire Police were called in September to reports of an assault at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guests at the Cornhill .
In October , a dissatisfied guest posted about her stay on Facebook , indicating she too had paid to stay at the condemned hotel .
In the time after the notice was served , police were called to the premises 34 times , prosecutor Joe Hart told the court .
Rosalind Emslie-Smith , defending , said when Diamond took on the hotel it had been occupied by squatters .
During his time running it , he was also in a volatile relationship and the victim of domestic abuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overwhelmed by the size of the project .
He bit off more than he could chew . ''
Diamond pleaded guilty to seven breaches of fire safety regulations .
Judge Simon Medland QC , sentencing , said : `` It is quite apparent to me that you never became rich off the back of all this .
If you did , the consequences would be very grave indeed .
`` You are a man in moderate health in middle age .
`` The picture really began in early summer 2018 , when the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you and tried to point you in the right direction and make sure that the premises for which you were responsible , ie the Cornhill Hotel on the Prom , were safe .
`` They werent safe .
They were n't safe at the time and they remained unsafe for several months , despite every assistance that the fire service gave you .
`` They pointed matters out to you .
They ended up having to resort to a prohibition notice , and for a period of six months , you flouted that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may have paid , some may have been friends .
Whether they paid or not is neither here nor there .
`` It is absolutely apparent to me that in a number of very serious ways those premises were truly unsafe .
You have to step back for a moment and think for one moment what the outcome would have been if there had been a fire in these premises if they were occupied . ''
Judge Medland said it was apparent that Diamond was culpably negligent .
However he does not have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a prison sentence .
In light of his guilty plea , he said he could suspend the nine month sentence for 18 months .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Rachel Smith, James Rodger)

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A Birmingham Airbnb owner has been spared jail after a string of fire safety breaches at a hotel in Blackpool.
Alan Diamond, 46, was given a nine months suspended sentence after he risked the lives of his guests.
Diamond, who boasts Birmingham Airbnb properties, ran the Cornhill Hotel.
But Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service crews raised a number of concerns about fire safety at the premises, reports LancsLive.
Fire exits were blocked, the smoke alarm was not working, seals and self closing mechanisms were missing from fire doors, electrical sockets were damaged and overloaded, and there was no adequate fire risk assessment in place.
Diamond, who lived in the basement of the four storey hotel, agreed to voluntarily close the premises to address the problems.
But LFRS later returned to find a number of paying guests who had checked in.
A caretaker who was at the premises tried to instruct the inspectors to leave and at 2pm, officers issued a prohibition notice, ordering the hotel to be closed.
But Preston Crown Court heard the hotel continued to operate.
Lancashire Police were called in September to reports of an assault at the hotel and found a number of paying guests at the Cornhill.
In October, a dissatisfied guest posted about her stay on Facebook, indicating she too had paid to stay at the condemned hotel.
In the time after the notice was served, police were called to the premises 34 times, prosecutor Joe Hart told the court.
Rosalind Emslie-Smith, defending, said when Diamond took on the hotel it had been occupied by squatters.
During his time running it, he was also in a volatile relationship and the victim of domestic abuse.
She said: "He was overwhelmed by the size of the project. He bit off more than he could chew."
Diamond pleaded guilty to seven breaches of fire safety regulations.
Judge Simon Medland QC, sentencing, said: "It is quite apparent to me that you never became rich off the back of all this. If you did, the consequences would be very grave indeed.
"You are a man in moderate health in middle age.
"The picture really began in early summer 2018, when the fire service in Blackpool tried to help you and tried to point you in the right direction and make sure that the premises for which you were responsible, ie the Cornhill Hotel on the Prom, were safe.
"They werent safe. They weren't safe at the time and they remained unsafe for several months, despite every assistance that the fire service gave you.
"They pointed matters out to you. They ended up having to resort to a prohibition notice, and for a period of six months, you flouted that.
"People stayed. Some people may have paid, some may have been friends. Whether they paid or not is neither here nor there.
"It is absolutely apparent to me that in a number of very serious ways those premises were truly unsafe. You have to step back for a moment and think for one moment what the outcome would have been if there had been a fire in these premises if they were occupied."
Judge Medland said it was apparent that Diamond was culpably negligent.
However he does not have any previous convictions and has never served a prison sentence.
In light of his guilty plea, he said he could suspend the nine month sentence for 18 months.


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Slavery suspect who died in cannabis factory blaze was 'Albanian'

A suspected human slavery victim who died after being trapped in a locked cannabis factory is understood to have been an Albanian national .
The 43-year-old perished after a blaze broke at a unit at Premier Trading Estate , Leys Road , Brierley Hill , last Thursday night ( June 4 ) .
A second man , aged in his 20s , survived the inferno and has since been discharged from hospital .
He is also understood to be Albanian .
Neither man has been officially named by police yet .
On Saturday West Midlands Police revealed they believed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industrial unit after being trafficked to the UK .
The blaze was discovered at about 7.30pm on Thursday and the victim died the following day .
`` The unit , used to grow cannabis on an industrial scale , was locked meaning these men had no way to escape the fire , '' the force said in a statement .
A post-mortem examination will take place to establish the cause of death .
The force said it believed both men had been `` trafficked to the UK from abroad and were effectively being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have appealed to the owner of a drone to come forward after it was seen in the area when the fire broke out .
`` The ( drone ) footage recorded may hold vital information in our investigation , '' said Detective Inspector Jim Mahon .
`` We are urgently appealing for anyone with information about who is involved in exploiting these men , and involved in the set-up , to contact us . ''
Ayone with information can call West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .

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A suspected human slavery victim who died after being trapped in a locked cannabis factory is understood to have been an Albanian national.
The 43-year-old perished after a blaze broke at a unit at Premier Trading Estate, Leys Road, Brierley Hill, last Thursday night (June 4).
A second man, aged in his 20s, survived the inferno and has since been discharged from hospital. He is also understood to be Albanian.
(Image: West Midlands Fire Service)
Neither man has been officially named by police yet.
On Saturday West Midlands Police revealed they believed the two men had been locked into the industrial unit after being trafficked to the UK.
The blaze was discovered at about 7.30pm on Thursday and the victim died the following day.
"The unit, used to grow cannabis on an industrial scale, was locked meaning these men had no way to escape the fire," the force said in a statement.
A post-mortem examination will take place to establish the cause of death.
The force said it believed both men had been "trafficked to the UK from abroad and were effectively being held against their will".
Detectives have appealed to the owner of a drone to come forward after it was seen in the area when the fire broke out.
"The (drone) footage recorded may hold vital information in our investigation," said Detective Inspector Jim Mahon.
"We are urgently appealing for anyone with information about who is involved in exploiting these men, and involved in the set-up, to contact us."
Ayone with information can call West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-06-09--What Clotet said about Bellingham's future before shock news

On Monday , Birmingham City announced that head coach Pep Clotet would depart the club at the end of the season .
“ It 's been a really difficult decision to take because it 's a privilege to be part of the Blues family , but it 's the best step for everyone and it allows the club to continue to move forward with their vision and strategy , ” Clotet said upon the announcement .
Blues chief executive Dong Ren said : “ Pep will depart with our very best wishes .
Pep came in as a colleague but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our gratitude .
He has done a very good and thorough job for us and has been professional throughout , always putting the Club before himself .
“ It 's a decision that is filled with sadness for us both .
We value Pep very highly and we know how much he loves this Club .
In the meantime , Pep continues to have our full backing and we are all determined to do everything we can to finish the season strongly and give him the fitting send-off he deserves.
” One of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decisions throughout his season at the helm has been his management of 16-year-old starlet , Jude Bellingham , who has flourished in his first season with the senior squad .
From breaking Trevor Francis ’ record as the youngest player to make his first-team debut to playing over 30 Championship games in midfield as a fresh-faced teenager , Bellingham has been a shining light for Birmingham throughout the season .
And Clotet has played a key role in the youngster ’ s development .
Following the announcement on Monday , Bellingham declared : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and you gave me that plus so much more , always grateful .
Thanks Pep !
” But what has Clotet said about Bellingham throughout the youngster ’ s sensational breakout season ?
Late in August , after making his first start in an EFL Cup defeat to Portsmouth , Bellingham was introduced as first-half substitute for Jefferson Montero against Stoke City for his second Championship appearance .
He would end the match as a hero , scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory .
Afterwards , Clotet spoke to Birmingham Live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unfortunate day for Montero but we spoke about it and thought he was the ideal player in that role , ” Clotet said .
“ He came and played on the level of the team .
This summer he has matured a lot with the first team , he made his debut in the cup and had a few minutes at Swansea last week .
“ As soon as the option was there he was ready for it and he took it .
He scored a goal that has given us the three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he will keep working hard because it is his hard work that has given him the chance today .
“ The fact he did that for us in front of our fans is a memorable day because he is the youngest player who has played for Birmingham .
He is quiet , he is very professional in his football , he is a confident lad in his ability but he is someone you can talk to , he is very mature as well.
” After his goal versus Stoke City from off the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 win .
Following the match , Clotet was asked whether it would be impossible to drop the 16-year-old after two goals in two games .
“ No , it 's possible , ” Clotet told the official club website .
“ We all need to remember I have a duty ( of care ) , the Club does .
“ He was the perfect player for that role and position we wanted on Saturday .
So I took that risk .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the training differently to the ( senior ) pros because his body still does not have the experience when it comes to that .
“ I will use him for the best of his abilities and for the best of Birmingham City , but I will always try to handle the risk because he is a talent for us and that 's the right thing to do.
” Clotet also commented on Bellingham ’ s performances throughout the preseason and start of the campaign , as well as revealing how he can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think Jude is a player who is growing steadily , ” he said .
“ He has been working with us the whole pre-season .
In the games in pre-season , he was playing to a good standard .
To a good standard technically and tactically .
He has been understanding us more and more .
“ And we have been working very hard to tweak the little mistakes that come because obviously he is only 16 .
We saw a very strong performance Saturday , very focused .
If he did lose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like all the other ( senior ) pros .
“ And , as well , I want to remind him of the importance of this chance .
It 's not only ( from ) me , it 's the chance the team is giving him .
He is paying the team back with effort , with respect and performances .
That 's the way for him , going forward.
” Bellingham played in all of the next four matches , starting two of them .
Following a 2-1 win over Middlesbrough in which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the youngster ’ s handling of the physicality of the league and discussed where his best position was , having played him out wide and in central midfield .
“ For me , that 's Jude 's best position playing in midfield in front of the back four , ” said Clotet to the official club website .
“ When he made his debut here at St. Andrew 's he did it on the wing in the same position that Fran Villalba played on Friday .
“ So , he had to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but in my head , he was always a midfielder .
He can go forward as well , he can defend , he is very complete and despite being only 16 he handles the physicality of the midfield very well.
” Following the Middlesbrough victory , Bellingham started the next 13 games .
In the middle of that run , Clotet spoke at length with Sky Sports regarding the midfielder , his performances , and his potential .
“ We planned everything very well with Jude , ” he said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would suit him and release some pressure on him , as a kind of false winger .
Slowly we moved him into midfield where he could gain confidence .
“ Now we are playing him in his position in a more advanced role .
It took careful planning to make sure that he would make it .
Now the fans have one of their own on the pitch .
“ What I have seen in Jude is that the more games that he has played the more difficult it has become for me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I just get the feeling that he is getting better and better .
“ He is more used to the league and more used to the position that he is playing .
He is not just focusing on playing his game , he is focusing on helping us to win .
What has surprised me a lot is how strong his mentality is to cope with all of this .
He never gets down .
Every little mistake is just an opportunity for him to learn .
He is so impressive.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whispers of interest from other clubs , especially from Manchester United , turned into loud shouts .
Scouts had been to watch Bellingham throughout the season and some of the biggest teams in the world were keen to get ahead of the race to sign him .
In the January transfer window , The Sun reported that United tabled a £30 million offer that never materialised .
By the end of the window , Bellingham was still in Birmingham .
And Clotet took the wide interest in his young star as a huge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest in him , ” he said .
“ From the beginning , he has been watched since he was 13 or 14 .
For the Middlesbrough game , half of Europe was here .
He is used to it and I am used to it .
I have always said it is very good that clubs show interest in our players because this means that we have good players .
“ In my position as head coach because I am not the manager it is difficult to evaluate .
I think Jude @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s doing , we are very happy with him , he ’ s growing and I see him very focused on us .
“ It ’ s his club , his people he is living a dream that comes from the work that he and a lot of people in the academy put together to reach this level .
He understands that .
“ The fact in the press they are saying these clubs are watching our players for this amount of money , it just makes us proud that he knows we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in giving a path to the first-team for the players in our academy .
“ On a personal point , it makes me proud that I was here with him when he started this journey , and he makes the club and his team-mates proud for the fact one of our players is attracting this interest .
I think it ’ s fantastic for the club.
” Fast forward to the present day and the rumours regarding Bellingham , his future , and the restart of the Championship season persist .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Bellingham is at the club and recognises that the speculation is natural in the current circumstances when games resume .
“ We are very focused on the present and there 's so much uncertainty in this situation that it 's very difficult to start thinking about next season , ” he told Sky Sports .
“ What I 'm very happy about now is that Jude is here with us and all the players are here with us as well .
We focus on that really , but I understand there 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games do come back .
“ As a head coach , I do n't deal with transfers , it 's the club .
But I can imagine the situation has all the clubs very worried about how to finish this season and what impact this season has into next season .
“ That can change a lot of the future of the clubs .
Possibly it 's going to be a busy summer , possibly it 's going to be less busy , we still do n't know what impact it will have @ @

On Monday, Birmingham City announced that head coach Pep Clotet would depart the club at the end of the season.
“It's been a really difficult decision to take because it's a privilege to be part of the Blues family, but it's the best step for everyone and it allows the club to continue to move forward with their vision and strategy,” Clotet said upon the announcement.
Blues chief executive Dong Ren said: “Pep will depart with our very best wishes. Pep came in as a colleague but he will leave as a friend with our gratitude. He has done a very good and thorough job for us and has been professional throughout, always putting the Club before himself.
“It's a decision that is filled with sadness for us both. We value Pep very highly and we know how much he loves this Club. In the meantime, Pep continues to have our full backing and we are all determined to do everything we can to finish the season strongly and give him the fitting send-off he deserves.”
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One of Clotet’s most impactful and positive decisions throughout his season at the helm has been his management of 16-year-old starlet, Jude Bellingham, who has flourished in his first season with the senior squad.
From breaking Trevor Francis’ record as the youngest player to make his first-team debut to playing over 30 Championship games in midfield as a fresh-faced teenager, Bellingham has been a shining light for Birmingham throughout the season. And Clotet has played a key role in the youngster’s development.
Following the announcement on Monday, Bellingham declared : “All I needed was a chance and you gave me that plus so much more, always grateful. Thanks Pep!”
But what has Clotet said about Bellingham throughout the youngster’s sensational breakout season?
Late in August, after making his first start in an EFL Cup defeat to Portsmouth, Bellingham was introduced as first-half substitute for Jefferson Montero against Stoke City for his second Championship appearance.
He would end the match as a hero, scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory. Afterwards, Clotet spoke to Birmingham Live about Bellingham.
“It was an unfortunate day for Montero but we spoke about it and thought he was the ideal player in that role,” Clotet said. “He came and played on the level of the team. This summer he has matured a lot with the first team, he made his debut in the cup and had a few minutes at Swansea last week.
“As soon as the option was there he was ready for it and he took it. He scored a goal that has given us the three points but he is very well-grounded and he will keep working hard because it is his hard work that has given him the chance today.
“The fact he did that for us in front of our fans is a memorable day because he is the youngest player who has played for Birmingham. He is quiet, he is very professional in his football, he is a confident lad in his ability but he is someone you can talk to, he is very mature as well.”
After his goal versus Stoke City from off the bench, Bellingham started against Charlton Athletic and scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 win. Following the match, Clotet was asked whether it would be impossible to drop the 16-year-old after two goals in two games.
“No, it's possible,” Clotet told the official club website. “We all need to remember I have a duty (of care), the Club does. “He was the perfect player for that role and position we wanted on Saturday. So I took that risk.
“He handles the load of the games and the training differently to the (senior) pros because his body still does not have the experience when it comes to that.
“I will use him for the best of his abilities and for the best of Birmingham City, but I will always try to handle the risk because he is a talent for us and that's the right thing to do.”
Clotet also commented on Bellingham’s performances throughout the preseason and start of the campaign, as well as revealing how he can develop in the future.
“I think Jude is a player who is growing steadily,” he said. “He has been working with us the whole pre-season. In the games in pre-season, he was playing to a good standard. To a good standard technically and tactically. He has been understanding us more and more.
“And we have been working very hard to tweak the little mistakes that come because obviously he is only 16. We saw a very strong performance Saturday, very focused. If he did lose the ball he reacted very quickly, like all the other (senior) pros.
“And, as well, I want to remind him of the importance of this chance. It's not only (from) me, it's the chance the team is giving him. He is paying the team back with effort, with respect and performances. That's the way for him, going forward.”
Bellingham played in all of the next four matches, starting two of them. Following a 2-1 win over Middlesbrough in which Bellingham played 74 minutes, Clotet praised the youngster’s handling of the physicality of the league and discussed where his best position was, having played him out wide and in central midfield.
poll loading Is Pep Clotet right to leave Blues at the end of this season? 2000+ VOTES SO FAR Yes, we need a change No, he has more to offer
“For me, that's Jude's best position playing in midfield in front of the back four,” said Clotet to the official club website. “When he made his debut here at St. Andrew's he did it on the wing in the same position that Fran Villalba played on Friday.
“So, he had to come in and try to link in behind, but in my head, he was always a midfielder. He can go forward as well, he can defend, he is very complete and despite being only 16 he handles the physicality of the midfield very well.”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Following the Middlesbrough victory, Bellingham started the next 13 games. In the middle of that run, Clotet spoke at length with Sky Sports regarding the midfielder, his performances, and his potential.
“We planned everything very well with Jude,” he said. “We started him in a position that would suit him and release some pressure on him, as a kind of false winger. Slowly we moved him into midfield where he could gain confidence.
“Now we are playing him in his position in a more advanced role. It took careful planning to make sure that he would make it. Now the fans have one of their own on the pitch.
(Image: Marc Atkins)
“What I have seen in Jude is that the more games that he has played the more difficult it has become for me to see a ceiling in his performances. I just get the feeling that he is getting better and better.
“He is more used to the league and more used to the position that he is playing. He is not just focusing on playing his game, he is focusing on helping us to win. What has surprised me a lot is how strong his mentality is to cope with all of this. He never gets down. Every little mistake is just an opportunity for him to learn. He is so impressive.”
At the turn of the year, whispers of interest from other clubs, especially from Manchester United, turned into loud shouts. Scouts had been to watch Bellingham throughout the season and some of the biggest teams in the world were keen to get ahead of the race to sign him.
In the January transfer window, The Sun reported that United tabled a £30 million offer that never materialised. By the end of the window, Bellingham was still in Birmingham. And Clotet took the wide interest in his young star as a huge compliment.
“We are aware of interest in him,” he said. “From the beginning, he has been watched since he was 13 or 14. For the Middlesbrough game, half of Europe was here. He is used to it and I am used to it. I have always said it is very good that clubs show interest in our players because this means that we have good players.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“In my position as head coach because I am not the manager it is difficult to evaluate. I think Jude is very happy with what he’s doing, we are very happy with him, he’s growing and I see him very focused on us.
“It’s his club, his people he is living a dream that comes from the work that he and a lot of people in the academy put together to reach this level. He understands that.
“The fact in the press they are saying these clubs are watching our players for this amount of money, it just makes us proud that he knows we’re doing things the right way, in giving a path to the first-team for the players in our academy.
“On a personal point, it makes me proud that I was here with him when he started this journey, and he makes the club and his team-mates proud for the fact one of our players is attracting this interest. I think it’s fantastic for the club.”
Fast forward to the present day and the rumours regarding Bellingham, his future, and the restart of the Championship season persist. But Clotet simply reiterates that he is happy that Bellingham is at the club and recognises that the speculation is natural in the current circumstances when games resume.
“We are very focused on the present and there's so much uncertainty in this situation that it's very difficult to start thinking about next season,” he told Sky Sports. “What I'm very happy about now is that Jude is here with us and all the players are here with us as well. We focus on that really, but I understand there's going to be more speculation when the games do come back.
“As a head coach, I don't deal with transfers, it's the club. But I can imagine the situation has all the clubs very worried about how to finish this season and what impact this season has into next season.
“That can change a lot of the future of the clubs. Possibly it's going to be a busy summer, possibly it's going to be less busy, we still don't know what impact it will have.”


birminghammail--2020-06-09--Appeal as woman punched in face and has phone stolen

Police want to speak to this man after a woman was punched in the face and had her phone stolen @ @ @ @ @ Road , Erdington , just after 4.15pm on December 19 last year .
Police retrieved @ @ @ @ @ officers would like to speak to from the victim ’ s iCloud account .
Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ on its Facebook page , asking : `` Do you know who this man is @ @ @ @ @ speak to him about a robbery on Station Road in Erdington , Birmingham , just @ @ @ @ @ December 2019 , where a woman was punched in the face and had her phone @ @ @ @ @ managed to get this picture from the victim ’ s iCloud account , which has @ @ @ @ @ phone .
`` Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact us via @ @ @ @ @ 8am and midnight , quoting crime reference 20BE/299710Z/19 . ''
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously @ @ @ @ @

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Police want to speak to this man after a woman was punched in the face and had her phone stolen.
It happened in Station Road, Erdington, just after 4.15pm on December 19 last year.
Police retrieved a picture of a man officers would like to speak to from the victim’s iCloud account.
Birmingham Police posted about the incident on its Facebook page, asking: "Do you know who this man is?
"We want to speak to him about a robbery on Station Road in Erdington, Birmingham, just after 4.15pm on Thursday 19 December 2019, where a woman was punched in the face and had her phone stolen.
"We have managed to get this picture from the victim’s iCloud account, which has not been disconnected from the phone.
"Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, quoting crime reference 20BE/299710Z/19."
Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.