birminghammail--2020-02-06--Police crackdown after Caldmore plagued by a string of violent disorder incidents

'Violence on our streets will not be tolerated ' is the stark warning issued by officers after a series of crimes in Walsall .
Caldmore - known locally as Karma- has been plagued by of a string of disorders , violence and community tension says West Midlands Police .
Two men are currently in custody after being arrested in connection with an assault in the area yesterday afternoon ( February 5 ) .
A dedicated team has been stationed in the area to get to the bottom of the issue .
Residents may notice daily police patrols along with regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the force said : `` We ’ re aware of a number of incidents of disorder , violence and tension within the community in Caldmore over recent months .
`` We received a call yesterday afternoon ( Wednesday ) , about an assault which we are investigating .
`` Two men , aged 19 and 20 , have been arrested on suspicion of assault and are currently in custody .
`` We know many of these issues were sparked by a fall-out between two groups and believe the incident yesterday may be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Violence on our streets won ’ t be tolerated .
We have a dedicated operation looking into this series of incidents , to better understand what is going on and find those responsible and bring them to justice .
`` The issues in Caldmore are a priority for us .
We have neighbourhood patrols there on a daily basis , while response and armed police are also regularly in the area . ''
Anyone who witnessed the incident , or has information that could help enquiries , is asked to call us on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chat at WMP Online between 8am and midnight .
Alternatively , you can call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .

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'Violence on our streets will not be tolerated' is the stark warning issued by officers after a series of crimes in Walsall.
Caldmore - known locally as Karma- has been plagued by of a string of disorders, violence and community tension says West Midlands Police.
Two men are currently in custody after being arrested in connection with an assault in the area yesterday afternoon (February 5).
A dedicated team has been stationed in the area to get to the bottom of the issue.
Residents may notice daily police patrols along with regular appearances of armed officers.
A spokesman for the force said: "We’re aware of a number of incidents of disorder, violence and tension within the community in Caldmore over recent months.
"We received a call yesterday afternoon (Wednesday), about an assault which we are investigating.
"Two men, aged 19 and 20, have been arrested on suspicion of assault and are currently in custody.
"We know many of these issues were sparked by a fall-out between two groups and believe the incident yesterday may be linked to the broader issues.
"Violence on our streets won’t be tolerated. We have a dedicated operation looking into this series of incidents, to better understand what is going on and find those responsible and bring them to justice.
"The issues in Caldmore are a priority for us. We have neighbourhood patrols there on a daily basis, while response and armed police are also regularly in the area."
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has information that could help enquiries, is asked to call us on 101 or get in touch via Live Chat at WMP Online between 8am and midnight. Alternatively, you can call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Jaguar Land Rover cuts production at Castle Bromwich and Solihull plants to "safeguard long-term suc

Jaguar Land Rover cuts production at Castle Bromwich and Solihull plants to "safeguard long-term success"

Car giant Jaguar Land Rover is to halt production on some days due to the challenges in the global car market , BirminghamLive can reveal .
This will mean production will entirely stop for either full or half days in the latest blow to hit JLR .
The Solihull and Castle Bromwich factories will be altering their schedules , which includes ceasing production on some half days and full days the automotive giant said .
The Solihull plant will see some production suspended , depending on the area of the business , between now and end March .
Meanwhile the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ production on some half and full days from the end of this month until the end of March .
It is believed staff were briefed about the changes this afternoon ( Feb 6 ) .
For the 2019 calendar year , JLR retail sales were 557,706 , down 5.9 % compared to 2018 .
A spokeswoman from JLR said : “ Through its ongoing transformation programme , Jaguar Land Rover is taking action to optimise performance , enable sustainable growth and safeguard the long-term success of our business .
“ The external environment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company is taking decisive actions to achieve the necessary operational efficiencies to safeguard long-term success .
“ We have confirmed that our Solihull and Castle Bromwich plants will make some minor changes to their production schedules to reflect fluctuating demand globally , whilst still meeting customer needs .
“ Jaguar Land Rover is continuing to invest heavily in its UK manufacturing operations with significant investment recently committed to Castle Bromwich for production of the new all electric Jaguar XJ and Solihull which will build the next generation of Range Rover.
” The spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ production on some days or half days during that time.
” The Unite union had no comment to make at this point .
JLR , owned by Tata Motors , is facing several challenges , including a slump in demand for diesel cars , a slowdown in sales in China and uncertainty caused by Brexit .
Over the past decade , Jaguar Land Rover has expanded by growing its model range and driving into new markets , with new production plants in China , Slovakia and Brazil .
However , falling demand for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw the company announce a £2.5 billion cost-cutting programme , leading to thousands of job losses .
* Jaguar Land Rover last month reported buoyant global sales for December 2019 - though sales for the final quarter of the year were down .
The Coventry car maker sold 52,814 vehicles last December - a rise of 1.3 % compared to December 2018 .
< /p > < p > The rise was down to a sales boost in China , though sales in most other markets were down.
< /p > < p @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 2019 were 141,222 - a fall of 2.3 % year-on-year , < /p > < p > The rise in sales in China were hailed as a welcome boost for JLR and it represented the sixth consecutive month of growth in a country which at one point became Jaguar Land Rover ’ s biggest market.
< /p > < p > Since then sales have been sliding though , with the slowdown in the Chinese market named as one of the company ’ s biggest challenges - along with declining demand for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ > < p > December 2019 sales in China rose by 26,3 % year-on-year , offsetting lower sales in North America ( -1.1 % ) , the UK ( -2.9 % ) , Europe ( -5.3 % ) and in overseas markets ( -7.6 % ) .
< /p > < p > For the 2019 calendar year , JLR retail sales were 557,706 , down 5.9 % compared to 2018.
< /p > < p / > < p / > < p / >

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Car giant Jaguar Land Rover is to halt production on some days due to the challenges in the global car market, BirminghamLive can reveal.
This will mean production will entirely stop for either full or half days in the latest blow to hit JLR.
The Solihull and Castle Bromwich factories will be altering their schedules, which includes ceasing production on some half days and full days the automotive giant said.
The Solihull plant will see some production suspended, depending on the area of the business, between now and end March.
Meanwhile the Castle Bromwich plant will also be halting production on some half and full days from the end of this month until the end of March.
It is believed staff were briefed about the changes this afternoon(Feb 6).
For the 2019 calendar year, JLR retail sales were 557,706, down 5.9% compared to 2018.
A spokeswoman from JLR said: “Through its ongoing transformation programme, Jaguar Land Rover is taking action to optimise performance, enable sustainable growth and safeguard the long-term success of our business.
“The external environment remains challenging for our industry and the company is taking decisive actions to achieve the necessary operational efficiencies to safeguard long-term success.
“We have confirmed that our Solihull and Castle Bromwich plants will make some minor changes to their production schedules to reflect fluctuating demand globally, whilst still meeting customer needs.
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“Jaguar Land Rover is continuing to invest heavily in its UK manufacturing operations with significant investment recently committed to Castle Bromwich for production of the new all electric Jaguar XJ and Solihull which will build the next generation of Range Rover.”
The spokeswoman added: “We will be suspending production on some days or half days during that time.”
The Unite union had no comment to make at this point.
JLR, owned by Tata Motors, is facing several challenges, including a slump in demand for diesel cars, a slowdown in sales in China and uncertainty caused by Brexit.
Over the past decade, Jaguar Land Rover has expanded by growing its model range and driving into new markets, with new production plants in China, Slovakia and Brazil.
However, falling demand for diesel vehicles and sluggish demand in China saw the company announce a £2.5 billion cost-cutting programme, leading to thousands of job losses.
* Jaguar Land Rover last month reported buoyant global sales for December 2019 - though sales for the final quarter of the year were down.
The Coventry car maker sold 52,814 vehicles last December - a rise of 1.3% compared to December 2018. The rise was down to a sales boost in China, though sales in most other markets were down. Sales for October, November and December 2019 were 141,222 - a fall of 2.3% year-on-year, The rise in sales in China were hailed as a welcome boost for JLR and it represented the sixth consecutive month of growth in a country which at one point became Jaguar Land Rover’s biggest market. Since then sales have been sliding though, with the slowdown in the Chinese market named as one of the company’s biggest challenges - along with declining demand for diesels and uncertainty over Brexit. December 2019 sales in China rose by 26,3% year-on-year, offsetting lower sales in North America (-1.1%), the UK (-2.9%), Europe (-5.3%) and in overseas markets (-7.6%). For the 2019 calendar year, JLR retail sales were 557,706, down 5.9% compared to 2018.


birminghammail--2020-02-06--Manchester City preparing summer transfer bid for Aston Villa star - reports

Manchester City are keeping close tabs on Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish ahead of a potential move in the summer , according to reports .
Grealish has a growing list of admirers as he continues to catch the eye this season , which is Villa ’ s first back in the Premier League after three years in the Championship .
With seven league goals and five assists , the 24-year-old has the best record of any English midfielder in the division and is expected to be named in Gareth Southgate ’ s next Three Lions squad .
Manchester United are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of targets while reports overnight claim Barcelona and Real Madrid are also keen .
City ’ s interest has been mentioned before and now Bleacher Report says Grealish will be under consideration if Pep Guardiola decides to sign a new midfielder .
The report claims that the boyhood Villa fan is a player that City 'admire ' along with Ruben Neves of Wolverhampton Wanderers .
Former Villa striker turned pundit Andy Gray said in January that Grealish has the ability to play for any of the top sides including City .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his family are all Villa fans , he loves the club and he loves being captain , '' Gray told beIN Sports .
`` But Jack 's 24 now and I think there is a decision coming at the end of this season .
And I hate to say it , but I do n't think he 'll be there in August .
`` If I was a coach of any of the top-six , and I include Liverpool in this , he would make the team better .
`` He is , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Liverpool 's midfield players .
I think he is better than ( Naby ) Keita .
I think he 's better than ( Georginio ) Wijnaldum .
I think he 'd get into the City side .
He 's much better than ( Phil ) Foden .
I just think he 's that good .
`` When you give someone a football .
You watch somebody on a football pitch .
He has a football at his feet and in his control .
Special players , they just stand out . ''

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Manchester City are keeping close tabs on Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish ahead of a potential move in the summer, according to reports.
Grealish has a growing list of admirers as he continues to catch the eye this season, which is Villa’s first back in the Premier League after three years in the Championship.
With seven league goals and five assists, the 24-year-old has the best record of any English midfielder in the division and is expected to be named in Gareth Southgate’s next Three Lions squad.
Manchester United are known to have Grealish on their list of targets while reports overnight claim Barcelona and Real Madrid are also keen.
(Image: Neville Williams/Getty Images)
City’s interest has been mentioned before and now Bleacher Report says Grealish will be under consideration if Pep Guardiola decides to sign a new midfielder.
The report claims that the boyhood Villa fan is a player that City 'admire' along with Ruben Neves of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Former Villa striker turned pundit Andy Gray said in January that Grealish has the ability to play for any of the top sides including City.
"I know he's a Villa fan, his family are all Villa fans, he loves the club and he loves being captain," Gray told beIN Sports.
"But Jack's 24 now and I think there is a decision coming at the end of this season. And I hate to say it, but I don't think he'll be there in August.
"If I was a coach of any of the top-six, and I include Liverpool in this, he would make the team better.
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"He is, in my opinion, better than any of Liverpool's midfield players. I think he is better than (Naby) Keita. I think he's better than (Georginio) Wijnaldum. I think he'd get into the City side. He's much better than (Phil) Foden. I just think he's that good.
"When you give someone a football. You watch somebody on a football pitch. He has a football at his feet and in his control. Special players, they just stand out."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--'Pop-up' shelters launched in Birmingham to help homeless in Storm Ciara

A series of Salvation Army ‘ pop-up ’ shelters are opening their doors to protect people experiencing homelessness from Storm Ciara as the Met Office warns people to keep indoors to stay safe from the expected 80-mph winds this weekend .
The Salvation Army are providing additional beds in their Lifehouses ( hostels ) in Birmingham centres braced to respond to the severe weather , expected this weekend .
The Salvation Army ’ s move is in response to a national warning system known as the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol .
This is triggered when temperatures drop to dangerous levels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it extremely treacherous for people to be without shelter .
The Salvation Army ’ s Assistant Director for Homelessness , Malcolm Page , said : “ Our ‘ pop-up ’ shelters offer an extra layer of protection to rough sleepers – a safe warm space to shelter can be the difference between life and death at this time of year .
`` On the streets they are extremely vulnerable and risk death due to exposure to harsh weather conditions .
“ Rough-sleepers face multiple challenges in their lives – such as domestic violence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or addiction – that led to them losing their home .
`` A place in a shelter can be the first step towards tackling these issues .
“ The Met Office is warning people to stay inside and to not shelter or walk close to buildings and trees .
When you are without a home , this is impossible .
Finding a safe shelter can be tough whatever the weather but even more so when extreme weather hits .
The Salvation Army stands ready to offer protection in the storm.
” Jill volunteers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at The Salvation Army ’ s night shelter in Nuneaton and at the year-round drop-in service for rough-sleepers and those feeling isolated .
( The night shelter operates from other churches in the town across the rest of the week ) .
The night shelter began after Salvation Army volunteers felt they couldn ’ t ask people to go back out onto the streets in very extreme weather after the drop-in closed at 8 pm .
Jill said : “ Our guests are the same age as our children and grandchildren .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a temporary solution , so it ’ s important that we put them in touch with people who can offer housing support .
“ One man in his fifties , who had been a builder , came to stay at the night shelter .
My husband nagged him to go and get housing help and he has now moved into a new home with support available .
His story could be the same for anyone - he had a bad accident and wasn ’ t able to work .
His relationship broke down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Two of our volunteers were previous guests of the night shelter .
One of them now walks dogs for a living and has held onto his home.
” Malcolm Page added : “ While we are braced to offer emergency support in addition to our network of temporary night shelters , we know that rough sleeping has increased by 165 per cent since 2010 and a temporary shelter alone can not tackle homelessness in our towns and cities .
The Salvation Army offers housing all year-round where people can access support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their lives that led to them becoming homeless so that they don ’ t get caught in an endless cycle of sleeping on the streets .
We are urging the Government to recognise that increased support such as this is needed to reverse the climbing numbers of rough sleepers .
”

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A series of Salvation Army ‘pop-up’ shelters are opening their doors to protect people experiencing homelessness from Storm Ciara as the Met Office warns people to keep indoors to stay safe from the expected 80-mph winds this weekend.
The Salvation Army are providing additional beds in their Lifehouses (hostels) in Birmingham centres braced to respond to the severe weather, expected this weekend.
The Salvation Army’s move is in response to a national warning system known as the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol. This is triggered when temperatures drop to dangerous levels or weather conditions deteriorate drastically – making it extremely treacherous for people to be without shelter.
The Salvation Army’s Assistant Director for Homelessness, Malcolm Page, said: “Our ‘pop-up’ shelters offer an extra layer of protection to rough sleepers – a safe warm space to shelter can be the difference between life and death at this time of year.
"On the streets they are extremely vulnerable and risk death due to exposure to harsh weather conditions.
“Rough-sleepers face multiple challenges in their lives – such as domestic violence, mental ill health, childhood trauma or addiction – that led to them losing their home.
"A place in a shelter can be the first step towards tackling these issues.
“The Met Office is warning people to stay inside and to not shelter or walk close to buildings and trees. When you are without a home, this is impossible. Finding a safe shelter can be tough whatever the weather but even more so when extreme weather hits. The Salvation Army stands ready to offer protection in the storm.”
Homeless deaths in Birmingham 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 23 18 18 20 18 16 Figures from the Office for National Statistics.
Jill volunteers with her husband John on Thursday nights at The Salvation Army’s night shelter in Nuneaton and at the year-round drop-in service for rough-sleepers and those feeling isolated. (The night shelter operates from other churches in the town across the rest of the week).
The night shelter began after Salvation Army volunteers felt they couldn’t ask people to go back out onto the streets in very extreme weather after the drop-in closed at 8 pm.
Jill said: “Our guests are the same age as our children and grandchildren. The night shelter is only meant to be a temporary solution, so it’s important that we put them in touch with people who can offer housing support.
“One man in his fifties, who had been a builder, came to stay at the night shelter. My husband nagged him to go and get housing help and he has now moved into a new home with support available. His story could be the same for anyone - he had a bad accident and wasn’t able to work. His relationship broke down and he was homeless for a year.
“Two of our volunteers were previous guests of the night shelter. One of them now walks dogs for a living and has held onto his home.”
Malcolm Page added: “While we are braced to offer emergency support in addition to our network of temporary night shelters, we know that rough sleeping has increased by 165 per cent since 2010 and a temporary shelter alone cannot tackle homelessness in our towns and cities. The Salvation Army offers housing all year-round where people can access support that helps them tackle the challenges in their lives that led to them becoming homeless so that they don’t get caught in an endless cycle of sleeping on the streets. We are urging the Government to recognise that increased support such as this is needed to reverse the climbing numbers of rough sleepers.”


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Pictured - Trapped motorists walk on M5 as motorway closed over man's death

Motorists trapped on the M5 after a man was found dead on the carriageway walked on the carriageway as they were stuck for hours .
Emergency services were at the scene as the man was found at around 7am on Friday , January 7 .
His death was being treated as unexplained , a spokesman for West Midlands Police said .
The motorway was fully closed northbound from Junction 1 at West Bromwich to the end of the motorway at the M6 , near Great Barr , until around 11.30am .
One lane was now open northbound although the link @ @ @ @ @ @ @ M6 south was still closed .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said : `` We 're investigating after a man 's body was found on the M5 under a bridge at around 7am today .
`` The motorway is closed northbound from Junction 1 to the M6 , and delays are expected .
The death is being treated as unexplained . ''
Highways England encouraged drivers to find alternative routes or allow `` plenty of extra time '' , with investigation work set to continue throughout the morning .
Diversion information was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hollow square symbol .
`` Exit the M5 northbound at Junction 1 and take the second exit onto the A41 westbound .
Continue until the roundabout with the A4031 ( All Saints Way ) .
`` Turn right onto the A4031 northbound and continue until the junction with the A4041 .
Join the A4041 northbound and continue until the crossroads with the A34 ( Scott Arms ) .
`` Turn left onto the A34 northbound and then join the M6 at the Junction 7 interchange . ''
A West Midlands Ambulance spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the police to the M5 in Great Barr this morning .
Two ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene .
Sadly , nothing could be done to save a man and he was confirmed dead on scene . ''

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Motorists trapped on the M5 after a man was found dead on the carriageway walked on the carriageway as they were stuck for hours.
Emergency services were at the scene as the man was found at around 7am on Friday, January 7.
His death was being treated as unexplained, a spokesman for West Midlands Police said.
The motorway was fully closed northbound from Junction 1 at West Bromwich to the end of the motorway at the M6, near Great Barr, until around 11.30am.
One lane was now open northbound although the link arm from the M5 north to the M6 south was still closed.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We're investigating after a man's body was found on the M5 under a bridge at around 7am today.
"The motorway is closed northbound from Junction 1 to the M6, and delays are expected. The death is being treated as unexplained."
Highways England encouraged drivers to find alternative routes or allow "plenty of extra time", with investigation work set to continue throughout the morning.
Diversion information was issued: "Diverted traffic should follow the hollow square symbol.
"Exit the M5 northbound at Junction 1 and take the second exit onto the A41 westbound. Continue until the roundabout with the A4031 (All Saints Way).
"Turn right onto the A4031 northbound and continue until the junction with the A4041. Join the A4041 northbound and continue until the crossroads with the A34 (Scott Arms).
"Turn left onto the A34 northbound and then join the M6 at the Junction 7 interchange."
A West Midlands Ambulance spokesman said: "We were called by the police to the M5 in Great Barr this morning. Two ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene. Sadly, nothing could be done to save a man and he was confirmed dead on scene."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Explained: What West Brom are getting from their transfer window recruits

The recently passed January transfer window has been about ensuring West Brom maintain their ambitions of being in the Premier League come the beginning of next season - and that ’ s how they focused on their recruitment .
By the club ’ s own admission , too much emphasis last term was placed upon whether Albion ’ s recruit might be able to cut it in England ’ s top division should the Baggies have found themselves there by the term ’ s end - something which perhaps clouded their in-season push for promotion .
Lessons look to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the three additions , the recruitment drive has been all about complementing Slaven Bilic ’ s existing group .
One a loanee , another on a six-month deal on a free transfer and another an 18-month contract for a nominal fee ( certainly in today ’ s market ) , the Baggies wanted immediate impacts , Championship hardened professionals who could provide a sprinkling of extra quality .
Luke Dowling , the club ’ s sporting and technical director who alongside Bilic and the club ’ s scouting network identified and recruited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brings .
Robinson has been a long-term target , Dowling confirmed - indeed , he ’ d have arrived on a permanent basis in the summer had Sheffield United not emerged as suitors and offered top flight football on the spot .
Nevertheless , Albion left their mark on the winger , who made his Hawthorns bow on Saturday .
“ Callum especially we tried our hardest in the summer to get him from Preston , but Premier League football was the deciding factor with Callum , ” Dowling explained .
“ To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loan for the remainder of the season was something that we wanted to do straight away - and he wanted to come to us .
“ The hard work we did in the summer was one of the reasons why he wanted to come to us in January .
We ’ ve seen a small amount of the impact he can have on us .
I think he tired towards the end against Luton on Saturday , that was just due to game time in recent weeks.
” Polish international winger Grosicki ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many - a player with experience , pace and an ability to provide both goals and assists for his teammates .
That all came for about £800k too , after it emerged that Hull City decided against renewing his contract .
An 18-month deal , too , means that there is minimal risk to the deal .
“ He ’ s something different to what we ’ ve got , ” Dowling pointed out .
“ He ’ s a powerful , strong runner that knows the league .
When we signed him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 7/10 player that ’ s got the skill and capability of producing a winning moment , be it an assist or a winning goal .
“ This stage of the season , when you ’ re going to Millwall where it ’ s tough , you know he ’ s going to be the sort of player you can rely on.
” Quite a left-field addition , right before the closure of the window , Dowling says that Albion couldn ’ t afford to turn away such an option once they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to part with the player .
While they planned ahead without Nathan Ferguson , Peltier fitted the bill - a short-term deal for a versatile player who had played most of his career in this division .
“ Lee is at the opposite end , without being rude , of his career to the Dara O ’ Sheas and Nathan Fergusons that have been playing right-back , ” Dowling added .
“ Lee has been there , seen it and done it , and for us to get someone until the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that can play right-back , left-back , centre-half , he ’ s even played holding midfield .
“ I ’ m sure there ’ ll be games where he starts , I ’ m sure there ’ ll be games when he comes on to help , thinking we ’ ve lost Nathan not to Palace but to injury , we just thought it was something we couldn ’ t pass on .
”

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The recently passed January transfer window has been about ensuring West Brom maintain their ambitions of being in the Premier League come the beginning of next season - and that’s how they focused on their recruitment.
By the club’s own admission, too much emphasis last term was placed upon whether Albion’s recruit might be able to cut it in England’s top division should the Baggies have found themselves there by the term’s end - something which perhaps clouded their in-season push for promotion.
Lessons look to have been learnt; certainly in the case of the three additions, the recruitment drive has been all about complementing Slaven Bilic’s existing group.
One a loanee, another on a six-month deal on a free transfer and another an 18-month contract for a nominal fee (certainly in today’s market), the Baggies wanted immediate impacts, Championship hardened professionals who could provide a sprinkling of extra quality.
Luke Dowling, the club’s sporting and technical director who alongside Bilic and the club’s scouting network identified and recruited the targets, explained what each player brings.
Callum Robinson
Robinson has been a long-term target, Dowling confirmed - indeed, he’d have arrived on a permanent basis in the summer had Sheffield United not emerged as suitors and offered top flight football on the spot.
Nevertheless, Albion left their mark on the winger, who made his Hawthorns bow on Saturday.
“Callum especially we tried our hardest in the summer to get him from Preston, but Premier League football was the deciding factor with Callum,” Dowling explained.
“To get the opportunity to take him on loan for the remainder of the season was something that we wanted to do straight away - and he wanted to come to us.
“The hard work we did in the summer was one of the reasons why he wanted to come to us in January. We’ve seen a small amount of the impact he can have on us. I think he tired towards the end against Luton on Saturday, that was just due to game time in recent weeks.”
Kamil Grosicki
Polish international winger Grosicki’s arrival was a pleasant surprise to many - a player with experience, pace and an ability to provide both goals and assists for his teammates.
That all came for about £800k too, after it emerged that Hull City decided against renewing his contract.
An 18-month deal, too, means that there is minimal risk to the deal.
“He’s something different to what we’ve got,” Dowling pointed out. “He’s a powerful, strong runner that knows the league. When we signed him I mentioned that he’s always that 7/10 player that’s got the skill and capability of producing a winning moment, be it an assist or a winning goal.
“This stage of the season, when you’re going to Millwall where it’s tough, you know he’s going to be the sort of player you can rely on.”
(Image: Getty)
Lee Peltier
Quite a left-field addition, right before the closure of the window, Dowling says that Albion couldn’t afford to turn away such an option once they’d established that Cardiff City were willing to part with the player.
While they planned ahead without Nathan Ferguson, Peltier fitted the bill - a short-term deal for a versatile player who had played most of his career in this division.
“Lee is at the opposite end, without being rude, of his career to the Dara O’Sheas and Nathan Fergusons that have been playing right-back,” Dowling added.
“Lee has been there, seen it and done it, and for us to get someone until the end of the season with his experience, character that can play right-back, left-back, centre-half, he’s even played holding midfield.
“I’m sure there’ll be games where he starts, I’m sure there’ll be games when he comes on to help, thinking we’ve lost Nathan not to Palace but to injury, we just thought it was something we couldn’t pass on.”


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Wife of 'One Eyed Baz' was sent sick coffin tweet and the message: 'For your grandchild'

The wife of homelessness campaigner Barrington Patterson was sent a picture of a child 's coffin and the message : `` For your grandchild '' as part of a sick harassment campaigm .
The outreach volunteer - a reformed Birmingham City football hooligan and kickboxer - claimed his wife Tracey was sent 5,000 messages by the same person from more than 200 accounts in just two years .
Mr Patterson , a former kickboxing champion known as One Eyed Baz , said he had been forced to leave work to comfort his wife after the latest abuse .
He sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Midlands Police alongside a tweet which acused the force of `` letting her down daily '' .
`` Yet again I have had to leave work and go and support my wife , '' he wrote .
`` As you clearly continue to let her down daily , ( I 'm ) not sure why you have a victims ' code of practice as it ’ s not worth the paper it ’ s typed on .
Now if I was to be sending 5000 posts ... '' Later , responding to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweeted : `` As for saying ignore her , you try and get 5,000 messages from over 200 accounts over two years from the same clown then ignore it . ''
And he thanked well-wishers for their support , adding : `` Thank you for all the messages .
Tracey is catching up on some much needed rest .
I ’ m sure she will message you all later . ''
West Midlands Police confirmed it was investigating the claims .
The force said : `` We 've had lots of people contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with Mr Patterson and are meeting him and the victim in this case for further enquiries .
The investigation is very much ongoing . ''
Mr Patterson used to belong to Blues ' Zulu hooligan firm but turned his back on violence years ago .
The reformed ex-football hooligan famously fought heavyweight legend Vitali Klitschko during his kickboxing days .
He is the author of ‘ One-Eyed Baz : The True Story of Barrington ‘ Zulu ’ Patterson ’ and played a part in ‘ The Guvnors ’ film .
Mr Patterson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , telling of his fears that youths were increasingly turning to weapons to settle disputes .
He said : “ You don ’ t have fists and feet any more .
These kids have it in their heads to put knives and guns in their hands and that comes down to lack of respect .
It concerns me.
” '' I ’ ve done some mentoring with kids .
I ’ d like to do more , but the CRB ( Criminal Records Bureau ) checks get in the way .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are murderers and rapists , but they don ’ t admit it .
`` I am not ashamed of what I did , but I have a story to tell .
There are other things in life than being a football thug . ''

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The wife of homelessness campaigner Barrington Patterson was sent a picture of a child's coffin and the message: "For your grandchild" as part of a sick harassment campaign.
The outreach volunteer - a reformed Birmingham City football hooligan and kickboxer - claimed his wife Tracey was sent 5,000 messages by the same person from more than 200 accounts in just two years.
Mr Patterson, a former kickboxing champion known as One Eyed Baz, said he had been forced to leave work to comfort his wife after the latest abuse.
He sent a screenshot of the coffin message to West Midlands Police alongside a tweet which acused the force of "letting her down daily".
"Yet again I have had to leave work and go and support my wife," he wrote.
"As you clearly continue to let her down daily, (I'm) not sure why you have a victims' code of practice as it’s not worth the paper it’s typed on. Now if I was to be sending 5000 posts..."
Later, responding to messages, Mr Patterson, 54, tweeted: "As for saying ignore her, you try and get 5,000 messages from over 200 accounts over two years from the same clown then ignore it."
And he thanked well-wishers for their support, adding: "Thank you for all the messages. Tracey is catching up on some much-needed rest. I’m sure she will message you all later."
West Midlands Police confirmed it was investigating the claims.
The force said: "We've had lots of people contact us following this message. We made contact with Mr Patterson and are meeting him and the victim in this case for further enquiries. The investigation is very much ongoing."
Watch - One Eyed Baz talks to BirminghamLive
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Mr Patterson used to belong to Blues' Zulu hooligan firm but turned his back on violence years ago.
The reformed ex-football hooligan famously fought heavyweight legend Vitali Klitschko during his kickboxing days.
He is the author of ‘One-Eyed Baz: The True Story of Barrington ‘Zulu’ Patterson’ and played a part in ‘The Guvnors’ film.
Mr Patterson has previously spoken candidly of his past, telling of his fears that youths were increasingly turning to weapons to settle disputes.
He said: “You don’t have fists and feet any more. These kids have it in their heads to put knives and guns in their hands and that comes down to lack of respect. It concerns me.”
"I’ve done some mentoring with kids. I’d like to do more, but the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checks get in the way.
"I was a football thug. Some people are murderers and rapists, but they don’t admit it.
"I am not ashamed of what I did, but I have a story to tell. There are other things in life than being a football thug."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--The Indiana Vassilev verdict that will excite Dean Smith and Aston Villa fans

The rise of Indiana Vassilev may have come to a surprise to many onlookers , but to those inside Bodymoor Heath , the American had already been pinned as 'one for the future ' .
The only surprise was how quickly it has all happened .
With injuries decimating Aston Villa 's front line , many expected Dean Smith to rush into the transfer market for reinforcements .
And although Mbwana Samatta and Borja Baston arrived in the January window , the Villa boss was relaxed about his options .
That calmness was partially down to the performances of Vassilev @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end , with two Premier League performances in the last month .
On the youngster , who can play both as a winger and a striker , Smith said : `` He 's surprised me in a good way .
Sometimes when you give an opportunity to a young player they can sink or swim .
He is certainly a swimmer .
He has looked really good so far .
`` You can always tell how the reaction is through the other players , in their relationships with them .
You can see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in and puts a shift in for them .
If you do that and have quality to add to it you will do alright in the dressing room . ''
The reaction that Smith described in the first-team dressing room is one that Villa 's U23 coach Mark Delaney knew would occur .
“ He ’ s a real shining light for the Academy and he speaks volume for us as an Academy , '' Delaney told VillaTV .
`` If you know him as a character and see him around any dressing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he ’ s a person who you just warm to .
He 's got that enjoyment factor , they ’ re all young kids and you want them to enjoy football and that ’ s what he does every day .
“ Not forgetting that he ’ s a talented footballer , somebody who we ’ re not surprised where he ’ s got , But we are surprised at how quickly he ’ s got there .
“ He ’ s taken every opportunity and if you speak to the manager , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ Terry ] – they all value his contribution at the minute.
” After arriving from IMG Academy in Florida in 2018 , Vassilev has made a huge impact on his coaches both at youth level and in Smith 's first-team staff .
Asked what makes Vassilev stand out , Delaney added : “ It goes back to , he came into us two years ago and you want that person from another country , to come in and grab that opportunity and he 's definitely done that .
“ It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a little bit of time , but in the right place at the right time , anything can happen .
Over the last couple of months he ’ s scored goals , he ’ s been involved in goals .
Every game you watch , he ’ s been the biggest part of the team and people recognise it and the manager has as well .
“ He was first to say , ‘ Get him up with me and let me have a look at him ’ . ''
With the arrival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vassilev may once again be forced to wait for his opportunity , but he has a track record of grabbing them when they come along .

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The rise of Indiana Vassilev may have come to a surprise to many onlookers, but to those inside Bodymoor Heath, the American had already been pinned as 'one for the future'.
The only surprise was how quickly it has all happened.
With injuries decimating Aston Villa's front line, many expected Dean Smith to rush into the transfer market for reinforcements. And although Mbwana Samatta and Borja Baston arrived in the January window, the Villa boss was relaxed about his options.
That calmness was partially down to the performances of Vassilev, who was dropped into the deep end, with two Premier League performances in the last month.
On the youngster, who can play both as a winger and a striker, Smith said: "He's surprised me in a good way. Sometimes when you give an opportunity to a young player they can sink or swim. He is certainly a swimmer. He has looked really good so far.
"You can always tell how the reaction is through the other players, in their relationships with them. You can see them all behind him. He goes in and puts a shift in for them. If you do that and have quality to add to it you will do alright in the dressing room."
The reaction that Smith described in the first-team dressing room is one that Villa's U23 coach Mark Delaney knew would occur.
“He’s a real shining light for the Academy and he speaks volume for us as an Academy," Delaney told VillaTV.
"If you know him as a character and see him around any dressing room or around any training session, he’s a person who you just warm to. He's got that enjoyment factor, they’re all young kids and you want them to enjoy football and that’s what he does every day.
“Not forgetting that he’s a talented footballer, somebody who we’re not surprised where he’s got, But we are surprised at how quickly he’s got there.
“He’s taken every opportunity and if you speak to the manager, and Rich [O'Kelly] and John [Terry] – they all value his contribution at the minute.”
After arriving from IMG Academy in Florida in 2018, Vassilev has made a huge impact on his coaches both at youth level and in Smith's first-team staff.
Asked what makes Vassilev stand out, Delaney added: “It goes back to, he came into us two years ago and you want that person from another country, to come in and grab that opportunity and he's definitely done that.
“It’s a rise that we thought might take a little bit of time, but in the right place at the right time, anything can happen. Over the last couple of months he’s scored goals, he’s been involved in goals. Every game you watch, he’s been the biggest part of the team and people recognise it and the manager has as well.
“He was first to say, ‘Get him up with me and let me have a look at him’."
With the arrival of the new forwards in January, Vassilev may once again be forced to wait for his opportunity, but he has a track record of grabbing them when they come along.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--GP Manish Shah jailed for three life sentences after 90 sex offences against 24 patients

GP Manish Shah , 50 , was branded a `` master of deception '' as he was handed three life sentences with a minimum term of 15 years at the Old Bailey after being convicted of 90 sex offences against 24 former female patients .
Shah exploited cancer concerns to persuade patients as young as 17 to undergo unnecessary intimate examinations for his own sexual gratification , the Old Bailey heard .
Between May 2009 and June 2013 , he assaulted six patients of Mawney Medical Centre , the court was told .
Shah , 50 , of Romford , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had been practising `` defensive medicine '' .
But after a trial he was found guilty of 25 sexual offences against the six victims .
The jury was told he had already been convicted of similar offences relating to 17 other women , bringing the total number to 23 .
Prosecutor Kate Bex QC told jurors that Shah played on the women 's fear of cancer to consent to examinations , but without being properly informed .
Some of the victims were particularly vulnerable because of their young age or because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Bex said : `` Fear is an incredible motivator and few health concerns are scarier than cancer .
Dr Shah exploited that and used it for his own personal gratification . ''
Shah brought up the news story about Hollywood star Jolie having a preventative mastectomy as he asked a woman if she would like him to examine her breasts .
He also mentioned Goody to another woman , saying an examination was in her best interests , it was claimed .
Ms Bex told jurors that one theme of the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behaviour .
He gave patients hugs and kisses , singling some out as `` special '' and his `` star '' , saying he had a soft spot for them .
He would not always wear gloves and left one patient entirely naked on an examination table , jurors heard .
Shah attempted to justify an examination in medical notes by suggesting it was `` requested '' , the court heard .
He flouted NHS guidelines on giving healthy women under 25 smear tests and routine breast examinations on women under 50 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than good , Ms Bex told jurors .
He also breached guidelines on the use of chaperones during intimate examinations .
Shah will be sentenced by Judge Anne Molyneux at the Old Bailey on Friday .

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GP Manish Shah, 50, was branded a "master of deception" as he was handed three life sentences with a minimum term of 15 years at the Old Bailey after being convicted of 90 sex offences against 24 former female patients.
Shah exploited cancer concerns to persuade patients as young as 17 to undergo unnecessary intimate examinations for his own sexual gratification, the Old Bailey heard.
Between May 2009 and June 2013, he assaulted six patients of Mawney Medical Centre, the court was told.
Shah, 50, of Romford, east London, denied wrongdoing, claiming he had been practising "defensive medicine".
But after a trial he was found guilty of 25 sexual offences against the six victims.
The jury was told he had already been convicted of similar offences relating to 17 other women, bringing the total number to 23.
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Prosecutor Kate Bex QC told jurors that Shah played on the women's fear of cancer to consent to examinations, but without being properly informed.
Some of the victims were particularly vulnerable because of their young age or because of a family history of the disease.
Ms Bex said: "Fear is an incredible motivator and few health concerns are scarier than cancer. Dr Shah exploited that and used it for his own personal gratification."
Shah brought up the news story about Hollywood star Jolie having a preventative mastectomy as he asked a woman if she would like him to examine her breasts.
He also mentioned Goody to another woman, saying an examination was in her best interests, it was claimed.
Ms Bex told jurors that one theme of the case was the defendant's "sexualised" behaviour. He gave patients hugs and kisses, singling some out as "special" and his "star", saying he had a soft spot for them.
He would not always wear gloves and left one patient entirely naked on an examination table, jurors heard.
Shah attempted to justify an examination in medical notes by suggesting it was "requested", the court heard.
He flouted NHS guidelines on giving healthy women under 25 smear tests and routine breast examinations on women under 50, which were said to cause more harm than good, Ms Bex told jurors.
He also breached guidelines on the use of chaperones during intimate examinations.
Shah will be sentenced by Judge Anne Molyneux at the Old Bailey on Friday.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Horse scared to death by fireworks had suffered serious injuries in Solihull

A Solihull horse-owner was heartbroken after the animal became so frightened by fireworks it suffered severe injuries and had to be put to sleep .
Castle Bromwich councillor Cheryl Buxton-Sait had quoted the tragic case as an example of the immense distress that devices can cause pets and wildlife .
Highlighting animal-lovers ' concerns at this week 's Full Council meeting , she had called on the local authority to encourage shops to sell quieter fireworks and raise public awareness about the impact of `` unpredictable and loud noise . ''
Cllr Buxton-Sait ( Green ) told the chamber about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , whose horse had been terrified during the Bonfire Night period .
`` The fireworks basically spooked the horse ... the classic fear response in animals is to run , to hide , to try and get away .
And this horse incessantly ran round the field to such an extent they twisted their gut - I think it 's called stress collic .
`` A vet was called and unfortunately the resident 's horse had to be put down .
It was devastating for my resident .
`` I 've got quite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but I do n't really want to make this a horror show , there 's several documented incidents . ''
She insisted that she was n't calling for an outright ban on fireworks , but given the `` passionate '' feelings of many residents she was keen to see the council take the lead on raising awareness and believed it could make a positive difference .
It has been argued that products less than 90 decibels do less harm and that the organisers of public displays should advertise their event in advance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take extra precautions .
The motion was brought forward just a couple of months after a Solihull scrutiny meeting heard concerns that fireworks were no longer confined to traditional celebrations such as Guy Fawkes Night , Diwali and New Year 's Eve , with rockets being let off throughout the year .
At the time , Georgina Wells , from Solihull 's Willows Veterinary Centre , said : `` I would certainly welcome a review of the noise level that is considered acceptable in fireworks that go on sale outside of organised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cabinet member for stronger and safer communities , said the suggestions put forward this week should be referred to the Safer Solihull Board - which also includes the police and fire service - for further consideration .
`` There are a lot of people who get very upset about their animals being distressed by fireworks and I understand that , '' she said .
`` I also understand that people do set off fireworks when you do n't necessarily expect them to , so quieter fireworks make perfect sense .
`` I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of it through the Safer Solihull Board . ''
The item has been added to the agenda for the next meeting , scheduled for later this month .
Cllr Buxton-Sait said that while she would have liked the motion to have passed in the council chamber , she welcomed the fact the issue was being taken forward .
Action to encourage more responsible use of fireworks is already being taken by a number of other local authorities , including Gateshead , Dundee and Conwy , in North Wales .

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A Solihull horse-owner was heartbroken after the animal became so frightened by fireworks it suffered severe injuries and had to be put to sleep.
Castle Bromwich councillor Cheryl Buxton-Sait had quoted the tragic case as an example of the immense distress that devices can cause pets and wildlife.
Highlighting animal-lovers' concerns at this week's Full Council meeting, she had called on the local authority to encourage shops to sell quieter fireworks and raise public awareness about the impact of "unpredictable and loud noise."
Cllr Buxton-Sait (Green) told the chamber about the case of one of her constituents, whose horse had been terrified during the Bonfire Night period.
"The fireworks basically spooked the horse ... the classic fear response in animals is to run, to hide, to try and get away. And this horse incessantly ran round the field to such an extent they twisted their gut - I think it's called stress collic.
"A vet was called and unfortunately the resident's horse had to be put down. It was devastating for my resident.
"I've got quite a few other examples from the RSPCA, but I don't really want to make this a horror show, there's several documented incidents."
She insisted that she wasn't calling for an outright ban on fireworks, but given the "passionate" feelings of many residents she was keen to see the council take the lead on raising awareness and believed it could make a positive difference.
It has been argued that products less than 90 decibels do less harm and that the organisers of public displays should advertise their event in advance to allow vulnerable residents and pet owners to take extra precautions.
The motion was brought forward just a couple of months after a Solihull scrutiny meeting heard concerns that fireworks were no longer confined to traditional celebrations such as Guy Fawkes Night, Diwali and New Year's Eve, with rockets being let off throughout the year.
At the time, Georgina Wells, from Solihull's Willows Veterinary Centre, said: "I would certainly welcome a review of the noise level that is considered acceptable in fireworks that go on sale outside of organised events."
Cllr Alison Rolf, cabinet member for stronger and safer communities, said the suggestions put forward this week should be referred to the Safer Solihull Board - which also includes the police and fire service - for further consideration.
"There are a lot of people who get very upset about their animals being distressed by fireworks and I understand that," she said.
"I also understand that people do set off fireworks when you don't necessarily expect them to, so quieter fireworks make perfect sense.
"I think we need to have a full investigation of it through the Safer Solihull Board."
The item has been added to the agenda for the next meeting, scheduled for later this month.
Cllr Buxton-Sait said that while she would have liked the motion to have passed in the council chamber, she welcomed the fact the issue was being taken forward.
Action to encourage more responsible use of fireworks is already being taken by a number of other local authorities, including Gateshead, Dundee and Conwy, in North Wales.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Barcelona consider raid on Wolves as winger is targeted - reports

Wolves star Adama Traore is a wanted man - with former club Barcelona reportedly ready to make an offer to bring him back to the Nou Camp this summer .
Adama has been a revelation in Nuno Espirito Santo ’ s side this season after finding a regular place in the starting XI , and has five goals and ten assists in all competitions so far this term .
A product of Barca ’ s famous La Masia academy , the Spaniard left for Aston Villa in the summer of 2015 but would make for Middlesbrough a little over a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s time at the Riverside , battled for promotion under Tony Pulis , but when they fell at the play-off hurdle , Wolves swooped for a fee believed to be in the region of £18m .
Eighteen months on , and it ’ s fair to assume that Traore ’ s value has rocketed , with his performances having significantly improved under Nuno ’ s tutelage .
Wolves , of course , are under no pressure to sell one of their prized assets and in a position to demand any sort of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been suggestions that Wanderers could be looking for up to €150m for Adama , who has three years left on his contract at Molineux as of this coming summer .
The 24-year-old , the Daily Mail claim , has been identified as a target as the Catalans plan a significant freshening up of their squad .

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Wolves star Adama Traore is a wanted man - with former club Barcelona reportedly ready to make an offer to bring him back to the Nou Camp this summer.
Adama has been a revelation in Nuno Espirito Santo’s side this season after finding a regular place in the starting XI, and has five goals and ten assists in all competitions so far this term.
A product of Barca’s famous La Masia academy, the Spaniard left for Aston Villa in the summer of 2015 but would make for Middlesbrough a little over a year later.
Boro, during Traore’s time at the Riverside, battled for promotion under Tony Pulis, but when they fell at the play-off hurdle, Wolves swooped for a fee believed to be in the region of £18m.
Eighteen months on, and it’s fair to assume that Traore’s value has rocketed, with his performances having significantly improved under Nuno’s tutelage.
Wolves, of course, are under no pressure to sell one of their prized assets and in a position to demand any sort of money that they want.
There have been suggestions that Wanderers could be looking for up to €150m for Adama, who has three years left on his contract at Molineux as of this coming summer.
The 24-year-old, the Daily Mail claim, has been identified as a target as the Catalans plan a significant freshening up of their squad.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Nine men on trial in Birmingham accused over £35million drug gang empire

A trial of an alleged crime group `` kingpin '' is set to take place in Birmingham - starting today .
The trial , at Birmingham Crown Court , which could last up to three months , is due to begin around lunchtime .
DerbyshireLive reports the alleged `` kingpin '' of a major organised crime group which operated a £35 miillion drugs empire will stand-trial .
It is alleged the kingpin operated from a two-bedroom semi-detached house in Derby , in the East Midlands .
The man the prosecution claim is the mastermind behind the entire operation , Voja @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on trial for allegedly flooding Derbyshire , Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire with vast quantities of cocaine .
Petkovic , 35 , of Whinbush Avenue , Allenton , is charged with four counts of conspiracy to supply class A drugs , one county of conspiracy to supply a class B drug , three counts of possession of a prohibited firearm , possession of ammunition and possession of criminal property , namely £354,000 .
Qumran Salat , 34 , of Northumberland Street , Normanton , is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs .
Ruslan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Close , Derby , is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs .
Joel Knighton , 32 , of Elton Road , Allenton , is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs .
Calvin Morgan , 27 , of Strathmore Avenue , Alvaston , is charged with conspiracy to supply class AS drugs .
Glynn Oxtoby , 32 , of Victory Road , Allenton , is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs and has pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis .
Philip Wright , 28 , of Dower Close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conspiracy to supply class A drugs .
Micah Prince , 36 , of Tamworth Close , Brownhills , Walsall , is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs and possession of criminal property .
And Tyrone Taylor , 29 , of Brentford Drive , Mackworth , is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs .
The men all deny the charges against them .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Martin Naylor, Nick Reid, James Rodger)

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A trial of an alleged crime group "kingpin" is set to take place in Birmingham - starting today.
The trial, at Birmingham Crown Court, which could last up to three months, is due to begin around lunchtime.
DerbyshireLive reports the alleged "kingpin" of a major organised crime group which operated a £35 miillion drugs empire will stand-trial.
It is alleged the kingpin operated from a two-bedroom semi-detached house in Derby, in the East Midlands.
The man the prosecution claim is the mastermind behind the entire operation, Voja Petkovic, is one of nine men on trial for allegedly flooding Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire with vast quantities of cocaine.
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Petkovic, 35, of Whinbush Avenue, Allenton, is charged with four counts of conspiracy to supply class A drugs, one county of conspiracy to supply a class B drug, three counts of possession of a prohibited firearm, possession of ammunition and possession of criminal property, namely £354,000.
Qumran Salat, 34, of Northumberland Street, Normanton, is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
Ruslan Fesenko, 21, of Arthur Hind Close, Derby, is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
Joel Knighton, 32, of Elton Road, Allenton, is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
Calvin Morgan, 27, of Strathmore Avenue, Alvaston, is charged with conspiracy to supply class AS drugs.
Glynn Oxtoby, 32, of Victory Road, Allenton, is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs and has pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis.
Philip Wright, 28, of Dower Close, Darley Abbey, is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
Micah Prince, 36, of Tamworth Close, Brownhills, Walsall, is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs and possession of criminal property.
And Tyrone Taylor, 29, of Brentford Drive, Mackworth, is charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
The men all deny the charges against them.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--'The contract' - Manager reveals key detail in deal for Birmingham City defender

Portsmouth do not have an option to sign Birmingham City 's Steve Seddon permanently , Pompey boss Kenny Jackett has revealed .
The 22-year-old defender is on loan at Fratton Park until the end of the season - and has made an impressive impact for the League One club since his January switch , helping them to wins in his first seven matches .
`` There is no option with him , we have a loan for the rest of the season , '' Jackett told The News .
`` At the moment the contract is what it is .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Seddon , he has done very well , but the loan is for this season .
`` There have n't been any discussions about what happens after then .
`` I don ’ t know what his situation is at Birmingham , I wouldn ’ t really be able to talk for them .
`` We watched Seddon at Stevenage and AFC Wimbledon and he had good loans there as well .
`` In terms of the impact he has made , Pompey is a bigger stage and bigger club and he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of games for somebody who is 22 . ''

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Portsmouth do not have an option to sign Birmingham City's Steve Seddon permanently, Pompey boss Kenny Jackett has revealed.
The 22-year-old defender is on loan at Fratton Park until the end of the season - and has made an impressive impact for the League One club since his January switch, helping them to wins in his first seven matches.
"There is no option with him, we have a loan for the rest of the season," Jackett told The News.
"At the moment the contract is what it is. As a club we have been pleased with Seddon, he has done very well, but the loan is for this season.
"There haven't been any discussions about what happens after then.
"I don’t know what his situation is at Birmingham, I wouldn’t really be able to talk for them.
"We watched Seddon at Stevenage and AFC Wimbledon and he had good loans there as well.
"In terms of the impact he has made, Pompey is a bigger stage and bigger club and he is building up quite a nice number of games for somebody who is 22."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Phillip Schofield's wife Stephanie Lowe's reaction to him coming out as gay

Phillip Schofield has heaped praise on his wife for her support and strength as he comes out as gay in a powerful statement today .
Schofe was seen lauding his wife Steph on This Morning during an appearance opposite Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes today .
Phil said his wife Stephanie Lowe `` has been incredible - I love her so very much . ''
He added : `` She is the kindest soul I have ever met .
My girls have been astonishing in their love , hugs and encouraging words of comfort .
Both mine and Steph 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love , instant acceptance and support . ''
He continued : `` Of course they are worried about Steph , but I know they will scoop us both up . ''
The star , who is married with daughters , made the announcement this morning on social media .
This Morning co-presenter Holly Willoughby posted on Instagram following the news that Phillip Schofield has come out as gay .
Posting a photo of the two of them together , she wrote : `` Never been more proud of my friend than I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walliams said on Twitter : `` I am sending all my love to Phillip Schofield today .
I have always held him in the highest regard , and now have nothing but respect and admiration for him .
`` Let 's hope we are moving towards a world where no-one has to come out anymore , they can just be who they are and celebrate that . ''
`` Incredibly brave and moving announcement from Phillip Schofield this morning , '' the charity wrote .
`` It takes a lot of courage and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be open about who you are .
Congrats Phillip . ''

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Phillip Schofield has heaped praise on his wife for her support and strength as he comes out as gay in a powerful statement today.
Schofe was seen lauding his wife Steph on This Morning during an appearance opposite Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes today.
Phil said his wife Stephanie Lowe "has been incredible - I love her so very much."
He added: "She is the kindest soul I have ever met. My girls have been astonishing in their love, hugs and encouraging words of comfort. Both mine and Steph's entire families have stunned me with their love, instant acceptance and support."
He continued: "Of course they are worried about Steph, but I know they will scoop us both up."
(Image: PA)
The star, who is married with daughters, made the announcement this morning on social media.
This Morning co-presenter Holly Willoughby posted on Instagram following the news that Phillip Schofield has come out as gay.
Posting a photo of the two of them together, she wrote: "Never been more proud of my friend than I am today."
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Actor and comedian David Walliams said on Twitter: "I am sending all my love to Phillip Schofield today. I have always held him in the highest regard, and now have nothing but respect and admiration for him.
"Let's hope we are moving towards a world where no-one has to come out anymore, they can just be who they are and celebrate that."
LGBT equality charity Stonewall congratulated Schofield on his "hugely personal" decision.
"Incredibly brave and moving announcement from Phillip Schofield this morning," the charity wrote.
"It takes a lot of courage and is always a hugely personal decision to be open about who you are. Congrats Phillip."


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Princess Beatrice's wedding date to millionaire Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi confirmed by Buckingham Palace

Princess Beatrice of York and fiancé Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi will marry in May 2020 , it has been confirmed .
Buckingham Palace confirmed the date of the eagerly-anticipated wedding in a statement issued today .
The wedding will take place on Friday 29 May 2020 .
The couple became engaged in Italy in September 2019 .
The Queen has given permission for the ceremony to take place at The Chapel Royal , St James ’ s Palace .
The ceremony will be followed by a private reception , given by The Queen , in the gardens of Buckingham Palace .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ christenings the Chapel Royal , situated within the grounds of St James 's Palace , is a busy working chapel .
The Chapel holds regular services which are open to the general public , as well as hosting some unique Royal services .
Many Royal weddings have taken place in the Chapel , including that of Queen Victoria to Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg on 10 February 1840 .
In 1893 the then Duke of York and Princess Victoria Mary of Teck ( later King George V and Queen Mary ) were married in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sun the Queen plans to use the wedding as a chance to put on a `` united front '' after an extremely challenging few months for the Royal Family .
Beatrice and Edo began dating in autumn 2018 but have been friends for years , and sources said their relationship moved very quickly .

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Princess Beatrice of York and fiancé Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi will marry in May 2020, it has been confirmed.
Buckingham Palace confirmed the date of the eagerly-anticipated wedding in a statement issued today.
The wedding will take place on Friday 29 May 2020. The couple became engaged in Italy in September 2019.
The Queen has given permission for the ceremony to take place at The Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace.
The ceremony will be followed by a private reception, given by The Queen, in the gardens of Buckingham Palace.
The location for many Royal weddings and christenings the Chapel Royal, situated within the grounds of St James's Palace, is a busy working chapel.
The Chapel holds regular services which are open to the general public, as well as hosting some unique Royal services.
Many Royal weddings have taken place in the Chapel, including that of Queen Victoria to Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg on 10 February 1840. In 1893 the then Duke of York and Princess Victoria Mary of Teck (later King George V and Queen Mary) were married in the Chapel.
An insider told The Sun the Queen plans to use the wedding as a chance to put on a "united front" after an extremely challenging few months for the Royal Family.
Beatrice and Edo began dating in autumn 2018 but have been friends for years, and sources said their relationship moved very quickly.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Jet2 expands range of luxury five star getaways from Birmingham

Tour operator Jet2holidays has unveiled a series of romantic adults-only destinations to coincide with St Valentine 's Day as it expands its Indulgent Escapes range of quality breaks .
It has added new resorts and hotels offering holidaymakers an even greater selection of quality getaways from Birmingham and other leading UK airports .
As a result of the expansion , the package holiday specialist will have over 30 destinations and more than 110 hotels on sale The package holiday specialist has added new destinations including Zadar ( Croatia ) , Corfu ( Greece ) , Kos ( Greece ) and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of hotels have also been added to the company ’ s luxury portfolio in Spain , Turkey , Greece , Cyprus , Tenerife and Croatia .
The Indulgent Escapes collection boasts a prestigious collection of hand-picked five-star hotels with unsurpassed standards of service , décor and attention to detail .
From romantic adult-only escapes to golfing holidays , honeymoons and even family breaks , each hotel has been handpicked for its unique appeal to different tastes and interests .
Steve Heapy , chief executive of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has proved extremely popular and since launching the brand in 2011 , we have carried over 200,000 customers .
`` We are delighted to have expanded our portfolio of luxury breaks to include an even greater selection of destinations and hotels , so whether it is a 5-star serene retreat , a cultural gem or a grand residence , we can offer holidaymakers an indulgent escape that is richly distinctive .
”

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Tour operator Jet2holidays has unveiled a series of romantic adults-only destinations to coincide with St Valentine's Day as it expands its Indulgent Escapes range of quality breaks.
It has added new resorts and hotels offering holidaymakers an even greater selection of quality getaways from Birmingham and other leading UK airports.
As a result of the expansion, the package holiday specialist will have over 30 destinations and more than 110 hotels on sale
The package holiday specialist has added new destinations including Zadar (Croatia), Corfu (Greece), Kos (Greece) and Tivat (Montenegro).
Furthermore, a number of hotels have also been added to the company’s luxury portfolio in Spain, Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Tenerife and Croatia.
The Indulgent Escapes collection boasts a prestigious collection of hand-picked five-star hotels with unsurpassed standards of service, décor and attention to detail.
From romantic adult-only escapes to golfing holidays, honeymoons and even family breaks, each hotel has been handpicked for its unique appeal to different tastes and interests.
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Steve Heapy, chief executive of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Our prestigious collection of Indulgent Escapes has proved extremely popular and since launching the brand in 2011, we have carried over 200,000 customers.
"We are delighted to have expanded our portfolio of luxury breaks to include an even greater selection of destinations and hotels, so whether it is a 5-star serene retreat, a cultural gem or a grand residence, we can offer holidaymakers an indulgent escape that is richly distinctive.”


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Jilted groom who went on honeymoon with stranger has baby with ex-fiancée

A heartbroken groom-to-be who went on honeymoon with a stranger after getting dumped before his wedding day has had a baby – with his ex-fiancée .
John Whitbread made headlines around the world when he raffled his honeymoon after he split up with partner Amy Jackson when she got cold feet .
The 37-year-old – dubbed “ Jilted John ” – flew to the Dominican Republic with winner Kelly Wood who he met for the first time at the airport .
He later reconciled with Amy and even went on live TV to propose to her for a second time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amy gave birth to their first child together , a bouncing baby boy called Oliver .
Amy , 29 , gave birth to 7lb 3oz Oliver on November 11 last year and the couple are now planning to get hitched in the summer .
John , of Measham , Leics.
, said : `` It 's great being a dad after all we ’ ve been through .
“ The first four weeks I struggled .
I ’ m late having a child , but I ’ ve always looked forward to it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immediate , unconditional love but that ’ s not always the case .
“ I thought to myself , what ’ s wrong with me , am I a bad father , all that stuff .
“ I spoke to other dads going through the same thing .
“ I have this amazing little gem now in my life .
Amy was superb .
“ She is a brilliant mum .
I don ’ t put myself under that pressure anymore .
`` It pushes you to your limits , with the sick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ All the late nights are worth every second .
“ I ’ m a big mushy mess now , especially when he smiles at me .
All of that worry was just over nothing.
” Photographer Amy , who also has a daughter , Daisy Perry , 11 , from a previous relationship , added : “ I ’ m just so glad we ’ ve been given another chance .
“ Having Oliver is so special and now I can ’ t wait for us to actually get married.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Valentine ’ s Day 2015 before Amy called it off at the last moment .
John was heartbroken but decided to hold a charity auction with the winner taking Amy ’ s place on their honeymoon , which had already been paid for .
Kelly Wood , from Lowestoft , Suffolk , won the bizarre competition and joined John on a two-week romantic getaway before they parted as friends .
John and Amy went their separate ways and had relationships with other people before getting back in touch through Facebook .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2018 before Amy fell pregnant early last year .
John , who now runs a business directory business with Amy , said : “ When we first got together it all happened so fast .
“ I went out with my brother and his friends when I saw Amy working at a nightclub .
“ I asked her for her number but she didn ’ t give it to me .
As I walked out of the club , I stopped in my tracks and ran back in .
“ I told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lose ?
Please let me take you out for a date ’ “ Something felt right about it .
I knew there was something there.
” Despite the couple ’ s instant chemistry , Amy admits their relationship moved to fast .
She said : “ The first time around , I admit I wasn ’ t sure .
I loved the time I had with John , but I felt this pressure around the wedding .
“ I got cold feet , panicked and ran away .
It really wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted to take things slower .
“ We moved in together within a month and got engaged quickly , I didn ’ t feel ready.
” After his “ Jilted John ” honeymoon raffle went viral Amy revealed she was subjected to personal abuse .
She said : “ After the media got involved , I was getting death threats .
It was really horrible .
“ If you have got doubts over a wedding , it ’ s important to speak to your other half .
“ They may be feeling the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to help .
“ It ’ s about being completely open with one another .
“ If something doesn ’ t feel right you can speak about it , resolve it and put it to bed .
“ I always loved John .
It was just a case of bad timing .
I dreamed of getting back together .
”

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

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A heartbroken groom-to-be who went on honeymoon with a stranger after getting dumped before his wedding day has had a baby – with his ex-fiancée.
John Whitbread made headlines around the world when he raffled his honeymoon after he split up with partner Amy Jackson when she got cold feet.
The 37-year-old – dubbed “Jilted John” – flew to the Dominican Republic with winner Kelly Wood who he met for the first time at the airport.
He later reconciled with Amy and even went on live TV to propose to her for a second time.
Now the couple are celebrating after Amy gave birth to their first child together, a bouncing baby boy called Oliver.
(Image: SWNS)
Amy, 29, gave birth to 7lb 3oz Oliver on November 11 last year and the couple are now planning to get hitched in the summer.
John, of Measham, Leics., said: "It's great being a dad after all we’ve been through.
“The first four weeks I struggled. I’m late having a child, but I’ve always looked forward
to it.
“People talk about getting this immediate, unconditional love but that’s not always the case.
“I thought to myself, what’s wrong with me, am I a bad father, all that stuff.
“I spoke to other dads going through the same thing.
“I have this amazing little gem now in my life. Amy was superb.
“She is a brilliant mum. I don’t put myself under that pressure anymore.
"It pushes you to your limits, with the sick, the changing and all that stuff.
“All the late nights are worth every second.
“I’m a big mushy mess now, especially when he smiles at me. All of that worry was just over nothing.”
(Image: Dave Evitts / SWNS)
Photographer Amy, who also has a daughter, Daisy Perry, 11, from a previous relationship, added: “I’m just so glad we’ve been given another chance.
“Having Oliver is so special and now I can’t wait for us to actually get married.”
The couple were due to get married on Valentine’s Day 2015 before Amy called it off at the last moment.
(Image: Dave Evitts / SWNS)
John was heartbroken but decided to hold a charity auction with the winner taking Amy’s place on their honeymoon, which had already been paid for.
Kelly Wood, from Lowestoft, Suffolk, won the bizarre competition and joined John on a two-week romantic getaway before they parted as friends.
John and Amy went their separate ways and had relationships with other people before getting back in touch through Facebook.
(Image: Dave Evitts / SWNS)
They rekindled their romance and moved in together in 2018 before Amy fell pregnant early last year.
John, who now runs a business directory business with Amy, said: “When we first got together it all happened so fast.
“I went out with my brother and his friends when I saw Amy working at a nightclub.
“I asked her for her number but she didn’t give it to me. As I walked out of the club, I stopped in my tracks and ran back in.
“I told her ‘What have you got to lose? Please let me take you out for a date’
“Something felt right about it. I knew there was something there.”
(Image: Dave Evitts / SWNS)
Despite the couple’s instant chemistry, Amy admits their relationship moved to fast.
She said: “The first time around, I admit I wasn’t sure. I loved the time I had with John, but I felt this pressure around the wedding.
“I got cold feet, panicked and ran away. It really wasn’t the right thing to do. I wanted to take things slower.
“We moved in together within a month and got engaged quickly, I didn’t feel ready.”
(Image: SWNS)
After his “Jilted John” honeymoon raffle went viral Amy revealed she was subjected to personal abuse.
She said: “After the media got involved, I was getting death threats. It was really horrible.
“If you have got doubts over a wedding, it’s important to speak to your other half.
“They may be feeling the same as you, they may be able to help.
(Image: Dave Evitts / SWNS)
“It’s about being completely open with one another.
“If something doesn’t feel right you can speak about it, resolve it and put it to bed.
“I always loved John. It was just a case of bad timing. I dreamed of getting back together.”


birminghammail--2020-02-07--'Shocked me' - Former Aston Villa striker questions Dean Smith's transfer plan

Darren Bent has hinted Aston Villa 's deadline-day decision to sign Borja Baston from Swansea City shows how teams can 'scramble ' late in the window .
Villa boss Dean Smith was desperate to sign a second striker on the final day of January , despite landing Genk striker Mbwana Samatta earlier in the month .
The injury to Wesley Moraes and the departure of Jonathan Kodjia , left Smith with just two options up top , along with Keinan Davis - who has subsequently picked up another injury .
That meant Villa 's search for a striker , went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the closing minutes .
But Bent , who himself was a January signing for Villa , back in 2011 - revealed he was shocked that Villa opted for a man that had fallen out of favour in the Championship .
“ I am surprised .
It ’ s shocked me a little bit , ” Bent told Football Insider .
“ On deadline day people are scrambling around for bits and bobs and it might turn out to be an acute signing .
“ But you question signings on the last day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day people pick up pieces they do not need.
” Smith would certainly refute the claims of a scramble , when asked how he spent the final day of the window , he admitted : `` It was fine .
I was in a hotel room in Bournemouth !
`` There were lots of names , lots of agents phoning Suso and Christian and , thankfully , I kept my phone on silent !
” On the arrival of Borja itself , Smith said : “ I ’ m really pleased .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another striker and we ’ ve brought in Borja who , for me , will be someone who ’ s really hungry who ’ ll want to go and prove himself and that ’ s the type of player we want at the football club – hungry people who want to go on and challenge .
”

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Darren Bent has hinted Aston Villa's deadline-day decision to sign Borja Baston from Swansea City shows how teams can 'scramble' late in the window.
Villa boss Dean Smith was desperate to sign a second striker on the final day of January, despite landing Genk striker Mbwana Samatta earlier in the month.
The injury to Wesley Moraes and the departure of Jonathan Kodjia, left Smith with just two options up top, along with Keinan Davis - who has subsequently picked up another injury.
(Image: Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
That meant Villa's search for a striker, went right to the deadline with Borja arriving in the closing minutes.
But Bent, who himself was a January signing for Villa, back in 2011 - revealed he was shocked that Villa opted for a man that had fallen out of favour in the Championship.
“I am surprised. It’s shocked me a little bit,” Bent told Football Insider.
“On deadline day people are scrambling around for bits and bobs and it might turn out to be an acute signing.
“But you question signings on the last day. I always find that on deadline day people pick up pieces they do not need.”
Smith would certainly refute the claims of a scramble, when asked how he spent the final day of the window, he admitted: "It was fine. I was in a hotel room in Bournemouth!
"There were lots of names, lots of agents phoning Suso and Christian and, thankfully, I kept my phone on silent!”
On the arrival of Borja itself, Smith said: “I’m really pleased.
“I told everyone I wanted to get another striker and we’ve brought in Borja who, for me, will be someone who’s really hungry who’ll want to go and prove himself and that’s the type of player we want at the football club – hungry people who want to go on and challenge.”


birminghammail--2020-02-07--Eagle-eyed B&M shoppers left moved after spotting hidden detail on greeting cards

B & M customers have been hailing the bargain retailer - after eagle-eyed shoppers spotting a great gesture .
The bargain retailer operates multiple stores across Birmingham and throughout the Midlands .
B & M runs shops in the city centre , suburbs and beyond , and is a go-to for Brummie bargain hunters .
This week , its loyal customers have been left hailing the retail giant , for carrying cards which support Mind .
The Manchester Evening News reports the cards cost £1.49 each - and 20p of each sale goes to the mental health charity .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What a wonderful thing !
!
Thank you @ bmstores for supporting @ MindCharity . ''
A spokesperson for B & M said : `` We are delighted to be helping such a wonderful charity like Mind , we hope that our donation can continue to help their cause and the outstanding work they do . ''
The cards are available in stores now , and they retail at £1.49 each .
There are 6 different card designs available in the range , 3 of those will be in all stores .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the amazing work it does for those with mental health issues , or for help and support , head to the Mind website .

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

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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B&M customers have been hailing the bargain retailer - after eagle-eyed shoppers spotting a great gesture.
The bargain retailer operates multiple stores across Birmingham and throughout the Midlands.
B&M runs shops in the city centre, suburbs and beyond, and is a go-to for Brummie bargain hunters.
This week, its loyal customers have been left hailing the retail giant, for carrying cards which support Mind.
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The Manchester Evening News reports the cards cost £1.49 each - and 20p of each sale goes to the mental health charity.
On Twitter, a customer wrote: "What a wonderful thing!! Thank you @bmstores for supporting @MindCharity."
A spokesperson for B&M said: "We are delighted to be helping such a wonderful charity like Mind, we hope that our donation can continue to help their cause and the outstanding work they do."
The cards are available in stores now, and they retail at £1.49 each. There are 6 different card designs available in the range, 3 of those will be in all stores.
For more information on the Mind Charity and the amazing work it does for those with mental health issues, or for help and support, head to the Mind website.


birminghammail--2020-02-07--The shops being demolished to make way for tram line in Birmingham

These are the shops in Dale End that are set to be forced out by the Eastside Metro Extension - and they have been 'kept in the dark ' about the exact details of the proposals .
Today it was revealed that the Dale End McDonald 's would be forced to be demolished as part of an extension of the Metro network , with a new line set to run from Bull Street to High Street Deritend .
The new line will run straight through the King 's Parade Building on Dale End Road , meaning that several businesses will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be demolished ?
One of those businesses being forced to relocate is cosmetics shop MS Cosmetics , which is located on the end of the row of buildings .
And the owner , Mr Mohammed Shabir says he has only had direct contact with his landlord over the plans , adding that he still does not know when he will be forced to move his business .
`` Well we got to know about it through the landlords about a year ago , when the plans obviously were in place , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressful for us , because we ’ ve been trading in the area for nearly 15 years now so locating to a new area is almost like starting a new business altogether .
`` So it is quite stressful , and it is quite annoying to see that we have to move .
And finding another location and premises is a very stressful matter .
`` We ’ ve been looking for over a year now but we haven ’ t managed to locate anything at all .
`` We ’ ve got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be wrong .
We ’ re on a rolling lease and there ’ s still nothing guaranteed - it might go over that period , but we ’ ve had nothing to say if it will be 2022 or 2023 for definite .
`` The councils have not really approached us , in regard to anything , or with updates to the actual process .
We ’ re just relying on the landlords and when we ask the landlords they say they don ’ t have too much information either .
`` They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how things are being handled , and the timescale of that as well .
`` We ’ re effectively in the dark .
It would be ideal to have the actual timescale and what the procedure would be , and what side would be affected first , and how they will be handling things .
`` At the moment I think most of the traders are actually in the dark . ''

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These are the shops in Dale End that are set to be forced out by the Eastside Metro Extension - and they have been 'kept in the dark' about the exact details of the proposals.
Today it was revealed that the Dale End McDonald's would be forced to be demolished as part of an extension of the Metro network, with a new line set to run from Bull Street to High Street Deritend.
The new line will run straight through the King's Parade Building on Dale End Road, meaning that several businesses will be forced to relocate.
(Image: Google Street View)
Which businesses will be demolished?
McDonald's
Pound Palace,
The Money Shop
Cash Generator
MS Cosmetics
One of those businesses being forced to relocate is cosmetics shop MS Cosmetics, which is located on the end of the row of buildings.
And the owner, Mr Mohammed Shabir says he has only had direct contact with his landlord over the plans, adding that he still does not know when he will be forced to move his business.
"Well we got to know about it through the landlords about a year ago, when the plans obviously were in place," he said.
"It was really stressful for us, because we’ve been trading in the area for nearly 15 years now so locating to a new area is almost like starting a new business altogether.
"So it is quite stressful, and it is quite annoying to see that we have to move. And finding another location and premises is a very stressful matter.
"We’ve been looking for over a year now but we haven’t managed to locate anything at all.
"We’ve got til February 2022, but I could be wrong. We’re on a rolling lease and there’s still nothing guaranteed - it might go over that period, but we’ve had nothing to say if it will be 2022 or 2023 for definite.
"The councils have not really approached us, in regard to anything, or with updates to the actual process. We’re just relying on the landlords and when we ask the landlords they say they don’t have too much information either.
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"They say they’re basically unaware of how things are being handled, and the timescale of that as well.
"We’re effectively in the dark. It would be ideal to have the actual timescale and what the procedure would be, and what side would be affected first, and how they will be handling things.
"At the moment I think most of the traders are actually in the dark."