birminghammail--2020-07-07--Shocking increase in domestic abuse cases during lockdown

West Midlands Police dealt with 150 incidents of domestic abuse every day during the lockdown .
It 's a significant increase on the usual figures for this time of year .
Police say the increase is connected to people being forced to stay at home , children being off school and alcohol consumption .
It is also connected to more offences being And they said they expected more people to report they have been victims of abuse as restrictions come to an end .
A report by Assistant Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine , presented to the Strategic Policing and Crime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions begin to relax there will be an increase in reporting of incidents and this is being evidenced . ''
The report said : `` Daily domestic abuse reporting levels have risen and remained higher than average since the VE day bank holiday wekeend on 8th May 2020 ... we are now regularly seeing over 150 Domestic Abuse crimes per day being reported .
Ordinarily our offences range between 105 and 129 crimes per day . ''
Courts have been unable to deal with cases because their hours were reduced during the lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation with Magistrate and Crown Courts reduced sittings remains aconsiderable threat for the progression of Domestic Abuse cases through the Criminal Justice System .
`` Criminal Justice Services are leading the work on identifying how to deal with the significant backlog of cases , and the public protection unit are engaged with these discussions . ''
The House of Commons this week gave a Third Reading to new laws designed to fight domestic abuse .
This means the laws have been approved by MPs , although they will now be debated by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make changes .
In an example of opposition MPs and the government working together , Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips worked closely with Ministers on the legislation , in her role as a backbench MP and more recently as Labour 's Shadow Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding .
The Domestic Abuse Bill creates a legal definition of domestic abuse .
It improves the way both adult and child victims of abuse are dealt with by family courts , and prevents them being cross-examined by perpetrators .
It creates a legal duty for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who need it .
The legislation also creates a new form of order that can be imposed by a court which can require an abuser to stay away from a victim .
And it recognises children as victims of domestic abuse .
The legislation also creates a commissioner to act as a watchdog and ensure the government and public services are tackling domestic abuse .
Ms Phillips said : `` It 's a positive step forward .
The Government has listened to the opposition and to campaigners . ''
However , she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including a failure to provide support for people who have `` no recourse to public funds '' because of their immigration status .
The new law also makes it clear that people who commit acts of violence against a partner can not claim in their defence that they were taking part in consensual rough sex .
This was prompted partly by the case of 26-year-old Natalie Connolly who was killed by her boyfriend , John Broadhurst , at their home in in Kinver , Staffordshire .
He was sentenced to three years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had attempted to use the rough sex defence to reduce his sentence .
Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier ( Con ) helped lead a campaign to change the law to remove this defence .

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West Midlands Police dealt with 150 incidents of domestic abuse every day during the lockdown.
It's a significant increase on the usual figures for this time of year. Police say the increase is connected to people being forced to stay at home, children being off school and alcohol consumption. It is also connected to more offences being
And they said they expected more people to report they have been victims of abuse as restrictions come to an end.
A report by Assistant Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine, presented to the Strategic Policing and Crime Board, said: "As the restrictions begin to relax there will be an increase in reporting of incidents and this is being evidenced."
The report said: "Daily domestic abuse reporting levels have risen and remained higher than average since the VE day bank holiday wekeend on 8th May 2020 ... we are now regularly seeing over 150 Domestic Abuse crimes per day being reported. Ordinarily our offences range between 105 and 129 crimes per day."
Courts have been unable to deal with cases because their hours were reduced during the lockdown, the report warned.
"The situation with Magistrate and Crown Courts reduced sittings remains aconsiderable threat for the progression of Domestic Abuse cases through the Criminal Justice System.
"Criminal Justice Services are leading the work on identifying how to deal with the significant backlog of cases, and the public protection unit are engaged with these discussions."
The House of Commons this week gave a Third Reading to new laws designed to fight domestic abuse. This means the laws have been approved by MPs, although they will now be debated by the House of Lords which could attempt to make changes.
In an example of opposition MPs and the government working together, Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips worked closely with Ministers on the legislation, in her role as a backbench MP and more recently as Labour's Shadow Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding.
(Image: PA)
The Domestic Abuse Bill creates a legal definition of domestic abuse. It improves the way both adult and child victims of abuse are dealt with by family courts, and prevents them being cross-examined by perpetrators.
It creates a legal duty for local authorities to provide refuge accomodation for people who need it. The legislation also creates a new form of order that can be imposed by a court which can require an abuser to stay away from a victim. And it recognises children as victims of domestic abuse.
The legislation also creates a commissioner to act as a watchdog and ensure the government and public services are tackling domestic abuse.
Ms Phillips said: "It's a positive step forward. The Government has listened to the opposition and to campaigners." However, she said that the legislation also had gaps, including a failure to provide support for people who have "no recourse to public funds" because of their immigration status.
The new law also makes it clear that people who commit acts of violence against a partner cannot claim in their defence that they were taking part in consensual rough sex. This was prompted partly by the case of 26-year-old Natalie Connolly who was killed by her boyfriend, John Broadhurst, at their home in in Kinver, Staffordshire. He was sentenced to three years and eight months imprisonment.
Mr Broadhurst had attempted to use the rough sex defence to reduce his sentence. Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier (Con) helped lead a campaign to change the law to remove this defence.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--What Man Utd are 'briefing' amid Jack Grealish transfer interest

Manchester United are refusing to be held to ransom over transfer targets this summer , according to reports .
United are understood to hold an interest in Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish ahead of the window having been impressed with the 24-year-old this season .
Grealish has caught the eye despite Villa 's relegation woes , scoring seven goals and providing six assists in 31 Premier League appearances .
He also helped lead Dean Smith 's side to the Carabao Cup final with two goals and two assits on the road to Wembley .
Sign up for our Villa newsletter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the top of the page or click here There have been reports that Villa owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens will demand £80m for the playmaker but according to journalist Duncan Castles , United are not prepared to reach too deeply into their pockets to sign players such as Grealish and Borussia Dortmund 's £100m-rated Jadon Sancho ahead of next season .
Castles told the Transfer Window podcast : `` When you have Man Utd briefing that they are not prepared to pay anything like the fee that Dortmund have made clear they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s going to get thrown out rather than resolved .
`` It ’ s definitely the priority position for United , Sancho is their preferred target for that role .
But they are discussing other individuals .
Jack Grealish is a possibility to come in . ''
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer , whose team extended their unbeaten run to 16 matches with victory over Bournemouth on Saturday , has admitted United need further additions .
Villa host the Red Devils on Thursday looking to achieve their first win in 10 league outings .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday 's defeat to Liverpool but Smith played down fears the skipper picked up an injury .
`` He 's fine , '' Smith said .
`` Jack 's strapping was too tight on his calves so we had to loosen that for half-time .
He finished the game OK .
I think both his calves were tight in the end , but there 's no issue . ''

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Manchester United are refusing to be held to ransom over transfer targets this summer, according to reports.
United are understood to hold an interest in Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish ahead of the window having been impressed with the 24-year-old this season.
Grealish has caught the eye despite Villa's relegation woes, scoring seven goals and providing six assists in 31 Premier League appearances.
He also helped lead Dean Smith's side to the Carabao Cup final with two goals and two assits on the road to Wembley.
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
There have been reports that Villa owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens will demand £80m for the playmaker but according to journalist Duncan Castles, United are not prepared to reach too deeply into their pockets to sign players such as Grealish and Borussia Dortmund's £100m-rated Jadon Sancho ahead of next season.
Castles told the Transfer Window podcast: "When you have Man Utd briefing that they are not prepared to pay anything like the fee that Dortmund have made clear they want, that would suggest actually it’s going to get thrown out rather than resolved.
"It’s definitely the priority position for United, Sancho is their preferred target for that role. But they are discussing other individuals. Jack Grealish is a possibility to come in."
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, whose team extended their unbeaten run to 16 matches with victory over Bournemouth on Saturday, has admitted United need further additions.
Villa host the Red Devils on Thursday looking to achieve their first win in 10 league outings.
Grealish went down twice for treatment during Sunday's defeat to Liverpool but Smith played down fears the skipper picked up an injury.
"He's fine," Smith said. "Jack's strapping was too tight on his calves so we had to loosen that for half-time. He finished the game OK. I think both his calves were tight in the end, but there's no issue."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Ex-Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan pleads guilty to assaulting ex

Former Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan has pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates ' Court to assaulting former fiancee Vikki Ager .
Meighan , 39 , has admitted the charge in the East Midlands on Tuesday morning .
The rock singer announced his departure from the band yesterday , citing `` mutual consent '' as he departed the Leicester musical outfit .
He is accused of assault by beating on April 9 this year .
On Monday , Kasabian released a statement saying he was dealing with `` personal issues '' and wanted to concentrate on `` getting his life back on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has headlined Glastonbury - subsequently wrote on Twitter : `` Following today 's announcement I just wanted to let you all know that I am doing well .
I 'm in a really good place now .
On Tuesday , Leicester Magistrates ' Court was told former Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan `` smelt heavily of intoxicants '' as he assaulted his former fiancee .
The court heard a child witnessed the assault and contacted 999 to say a `` domestic incident was taking place '' .
Prosecutor Naeem Valli said the child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making the call and the victim could be heard saying `` get off me , get off me '' .
Mr Valli said officers described Vikki Ager as being `` visibly upset '' while Meighan was said to be `` unco-operative and aggressive '' .
`` Thanks for all your love and support .
I 'll be seeing you all very soon . ''
Meighan appeared at court on Tuesday morning - hours after his departure from the chart-topping alternative rock band was confirmed .
He wore a long black trenchcoat and spectacles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the East Midlands .
Last month , he revealed the band were back together after a hiatus and working on their first new material since For Crying Out Loud in 2017 .

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Former Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan has pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates' Court to assaulting former fiancee Vikki Ager.
Meighan, 39, has admitted the charge in the East Midlands on Tuesday morning.
The rock singer announced his departure from the band yesterday, citing "mutual consent" as he departed the Leicester musical outfit.
He is accused of assault by beating on April 9 this year.
On Monday, Kasabian released a statement saying he was dealing with "personal issues" and wanted to concentrate on "getting his life back on track".
The rock star - who has headlined Glastonbury - subsequently wrote on Twitter: "Following today's announcement I just wanted to let you all know that I am doing well. I'm in a really good place now.
(Image: PA)
On Tuesday, Leicester Magistrates' Court was told former Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan "smelt heavily of intoxicants" as he assaulted his former fiancee.
The court heard a child witnessed the assault and contacted 999 to say a "domestic incident was taking place".
Prosecutor Naeem Valli said the child "sounded panicked and afraid" while making the call and the victim could be heard saying "get off me, get off me".
Mr Valli said officers described Vikki Ager as being "visibly upset" while Meighan was said to be "unco-operative and aggressive".
"Thanks for all your love and support. I'll be seeing you all very soon."
Meighan appeared at court on Tuesday morning - hours after his departure from the chart-topping alternative rock band was confirmed.
He wore a long black trenchcoat and spectacles as he walked to the court in the East Midlands.
Last month, he revealed the band were back together after a hiatus and working on their first new material since For Crying Out Loud in 2017.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Moment car engulfed in flames near Tesco Extra

This is the moment a car caught fire on a busy Dudley road .
Flames could be seen engulfing the @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham Road this morning ( Tuesday , July 7 ) .
A video - which @ @ @ @ @ shows firefighters at the scene and smoke billowing into the air near the town 's @ @ @ @ @ Midlands Fire Service said five firefighters from Dudley are currently in attendance .
A spokesman @ @ @ @ @ : `` We received the call at 9.50am .
`` The incident involves a car @ @ @ @ @ the roadway . ''
Officers from West Midlands Police are also at the scene to @ @ @ @ @ has been blocked off while the incident is dealt with .
An eyewitnesses told Black @ @ @ @ @ slow in the area .

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This is the moment a car caught fire on a busy Dudley road.
Flames could be seen engulfing the bonnet of the vehicle in Birmingham Road this morning (Tuesday, July 7).
A video - which can be viewed above - shows firefighters at the scene and smoke billowing into the air near the town's Tesco Extra supermarket.
West Midlands Fire Service said five firefighters from Dudley are currently in attendance.
(Image: Chez)
A spokesman for the fire service said: "We received the call at 9.50am.
"The incident involves a car that is well alight on the roadway."
Officers from West Midlands Police are also at the scene to control traffic.
One lane has been blocked off while the incident is dealt with.
An eyewitnesses told Black Country Live the traffic is slow in the area.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Faces of thugs banned from drinking in town centre after Walkabout terror

These are the faces of five thugs who are the first ever to be banned from drinking in Solihull town centre after a terrifying incident at Walkabout .
Violence erupted at the the Australian themed bar on Poplar Road on December 1 , 2018 .
As a result the five men pictured received suspended jail sentences and were also handed a drinking exclusion order banning them from bars and clubs in Solihull town centre for 18 months .
Today West Midlands Police released images of the thugs .
They are : The group started abusing other people on the dance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security staff .
They became even more violent when they were told to leave .
Doormen were forced to secure the doors to prevent them getting back in .
CCTV captured the men running and kicking the door trying to re-enter which was 'distressing all those inside the bar ' , West Midlands Police stated .
The footage helped investigating officers identify the culprits and they were all arrested and charged for violent disorder .
All five men admitted the offence .
On June 5 , Grealish , Taylor and Witts were sentenced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two years .
They were also ordered to carry out unpaid community work .
On July 3 Johnson and Williams were sentenced to 24 and 21 months respectively , suspended for two years .
They were also subjected to overnight curfews for the next two months .
The force stated that local officers will work with bars and pubs to enforce the drinking exclusion order preventing all five from boozing in the town centre .
Inspector Dave Amos from Solihull Police , said : `` The drinking exclusion ban is a first for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committed by the group that night will not be tolerated .
`` If any of these men are seen in the town centre at any of the bars or pubs listed , they will have breached the drinking exclusion order and could end up serving the remainder of their sentence time in custody .
This was a lengthy and thorough investigation that shows our commitment to keeping Solihull safe . ''
A spokesperson for Walkabout added : `` Customer and staff safety is a key priority within our venue and we work in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre to ensure anybody who breaks the law and causes disruption is brought to justice . ''

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These are the faces of five thugs who are the first ever to be banned from drinking in Solihull town centre after a terrifying incident at Walkabout.
Violence erupted at the the Australian themed bar on Poplar Road on December 1, 2018.
As a result the five men pictured received suspended jail sentences and were also handed a drinking exclusion order banning them from bars and clubs in Solihull town centre for 18 months.
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Today West Midlands Police released images of the thugs. They are:
Kyle Witts, aged 20, of Barlands Croft, Shard End
Dylan Williams, aged 25, of Vauxhall Crescent, Smith’s Wood
James Johnson, aged 21, of Pheasant Croft, Solihull
Drew Taylor, aged 23, of Chester Road, Solihull
Ryan Grealish, aged 20, of Vauxhall Crescent, Solihull
The group started abusing other people on the dance floor of Walkabout attracting the attention of security staff. They became even more violent when they were told to leave.
Doormen were forced to secure the doors to prevent them getting back in. CCTV captured the men running and kicking the door trying to re-enter which was 'distressing all those inside the bar', West Midlands Police stated.
The footage helped investigating officers identify the culprits and they were all arrested and charged for violent disorder. All five men admitted the offence.
On June 5, Grealish, Taylor and Witts were sentenced to 18 months in prison suspended for two years. They were also ordered to carry out unpaid community work.
On July 3 Johnson and Williams were sentenced to 24 and 21 months respectively, suspended for two years. They were also subjected to overnight curfews for the next two months.
The force stated that local officers will work with bars and pubs to enforce the drinking exclusion order preventing all five from boozing in the town centre.
Inspector Dave Amos from Solihull Police, said: "The drinking exclusion ban is a first for Solihull town centre and shows that behaviour committed by the group that night will not be tolerated.
"If any of these men are seen in the town centre at any of the bars or pubs listed, they will have breached the drinking exclusion order and could end up serving the remainder of their sentence time in custody. This was a lengthy and thorough investigation that shows our commitment to keeping Solihull safe."
A spokesperson for Walkabout added: "Customer and staff safety is a key priority within our venue and we work in partnership with the police and Solihull town centre to ensure anybody who breaks the law and causes disruption is brought to justice."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Tom Meighan pictured arriving at court after quitting Kasabian

Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan has appeared at a court in the Midlands today - hours after he announced a departure from the rock band .
Leicester rockers Kasabian have headlined Glastonbury Festival and well as Reading & Leeds during their career .
Meighan 's departure was announced on Monday in a blunt and brief statement .
Today , he has arrived at Leicester Magistrates Court , in Leicester , Leics , East Midlands , to answer a charge of assault by beating .
Meighan , 39 , is accused of attacking an ex-girlfriend , according to reports .
The court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the band .
A source said told The Sun that his former bandmates `` love Tom dearly . ''
They added : `` But the current situation is untenable .
Sadly parting ways for the time being was the only answer . ''
A statement released from the Kasabian Twitter account yesterday read : `` Tom has struggled with personal issues that have affected his behaviour for quite some time and now wants to concentrate all his energies on getting his life back on track .
`` We will not be commenting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own Twitter account to tell fans : `` Following today 's announcement I just wanted to let you all know that I am doing well .
`` I 'm in a really good place now .
Thanks for all your love and support .
I 'll be seeing you all very soon .
TM x . ''

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Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan has appeared at a court in the Midlands today - hours after he announced a departure from the rock band.
Leicester rockers Kasabian have headlined Glastonbury Festival and well as Reading & Leeds during their career.
Meighan's departure was announced on Monday in a blunt and brief statement.
Today, he has arrived at Leicester Magistrates Court, in Leicester, Leics, East Midlands, to answer a charge of assault by beating.
Meighan, 39, is accused of attacking an ex-girlfriend, according to reports.
The court appearance comes after Meighan announced his exit from the band.
A source said told The Sun that his former bandmates "love Tom dearly."
(Image: PA)
They added: "But the current situation is untenable. Sadly parting ways for the time being was the only answer."
A statement released from the Kasabian Twitter account yesterday read: "Tom has struggled with personal issues that have affected his behaviour for quite some time and now wants to concentrate all his energies on getting his life back on track.
"We will not be commenting further."
Tom took to his own Twitter account to tell fans: "Following today's announcement I just wanted to let you all know that I am doing well.
"I'm in a really good place now. Thanks for all your love and support. I'll be seeing you all very soon. TM x."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Man United have an 'interest' in Wolves winger Adama Traore

Manchester United are weighing up a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore , according to reports .
Traore is enjoying a superb season with Wolves , scoring six goals and providing an incredible 14 assists across all competitions .
His partnership with Raul Jimenez - the pair combining for ten goals - has helped push Nuno Espirito Santo 's side into the fight for Champions League qualification .
Several of Europe 's top clubs including Liverpool , Man United , Real Madrid and Barcelona have been linked ahead of the summer transfer window .
Sign up for our Wolves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the top of the page or click here According to journalist Duncan Castles , United see Traore as a potential alternative to Borussia Dortmund 's Jadon Sancho .
Castles told the Transfer Window podcast : “ When you have Man Utd briefing that they are not prepared to pay anything like the fee that Dortmund have made clear they want , that would suggest actually it ’ s going to get thrown out rather than resolved .
“ It ’ s definitely the priority position for United , Sancho is their preferred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are discussing other individuals .
Jack Grealish is a possibility to come in .
“ There is an interest in Adama Traore but I do not see them going to the levels that Wolves are asking , for that player , it ’ s a similar level to what Dortmund are asking.
” Sancho is said to be valued at around £100m while there have been reports that Wolves want as much as £90m for Traore .
United have also been credited with an interest in Jimenez and Mexico manager Gerardo Martino believes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the striker .

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Manchester United are weighing up a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore, according to reports.
Traore is enjoying a superb season with Wolves, scoring six goals and providing an incredible 14 assists across all competitions.
His partnership with Raul Jimenez - the pair combining for ten goals - has helped push Nuno Espirito Santo's side into the fight for Champions League qualification.
Several of Europe's top clubs including Liverpool, Man United, Real Madrid and Barcelona have been linked ahead of the summer transfer window.
Sign up for our Wolves newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
According to journalist Duncan Castles, United see Traore as a potential alternative to Borussia Dortmund's Jadon Sancho.
Castles told the Transfer Window podcast: “When you have Man Utd briefing that they are not prepared to pay anything like the fee that Dortmund have made clear they want, that would suggest actually it’s going to get thrown out rather than resolved.
“It’s definitely the priority position for United, Sancho is their preferred target for that role. But they are discussing other individuals. Jack Grealish is a possibility to come in.
“There is an interest in Adama Traore but I do not see them going to the levels that Wolves are asking, for that player, it’s a similar level to what Dortmund are asking.”
Sancho is said to be valued at around £100m while there have been reports that Wolves want as much as £90m for Traore.
United have also been credited with an interest in Jimenez and Mexico manager Gerardo Martino believes Old Trafford would be the ideal destination for the striker.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Kate Garraway says husband 'looks so different' in poignant FaceTime update

Kate Garraway has issued a devastating update about her husband - admitting Derek Draper 'looks so different ' .
Regarding her husband 's condition , Kate has spoken about Derek 's health after he was rushed to hospital in March .
Being hospitalised after contracting coronavirus , Derek was placed into a medically-induced coma in early April .
And while he left the coma last month , he remains in a minimal state of consciousness - and could stay there for years , according to medics .
Kate , the Good Morning Britain host , has been speaking to Derek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her husband `` looked so different '' after he was shaved because his beard had grown `` so long '' .
`` Derek 's lost a huge amount of weight and when the nurse shaved him because his beard had grown so long , he looked so different , '' the I 'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here contestant revealed to Hello !
.
`` They 'd never seen him without stubble or a beard before .
During their chats , they tell him what they 've been doing and their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he breakfast TV presenter is set to return to Good Morning Britain , starting with an interview on Wednesday before Piers Morgan 's break for the summer .
Kate and Derek married in 2005 and have two children .

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Kate Garraway has issued a devastating update about her husband - admitting Derek Draper 'looks so different'.
Regarding her husband's condition, Kate has spoken about Derek's health after he was rushed to hospital in March.
Being hospitalised after contracting coronavirus, Derek was placed into a medically-induced coma in early April.
And while he left the coma last month, he remains in a minimal state of consciousness - and could stay there for years, according to medics.
Kate, the Good Morning Britain host, has been speaking to Derek via FaceTime.
She has heartbreakingly revealed her husband "looked so different" after he was shaved because his beard had grown "so long".
(Image: ITV)
"Derek's lost a huge amount of weight and when the nurse shaved him because his beard had grown so long, he looked so different," the I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here contestant revealed to Hello!.
"They'd never seen him without stubble or a beard before. During their chats, they tell him what they've been doing and their sense of humour often shines through."
he breakfast TV presenter is set to return to Good Morning Britain, starting with an interview on Wednesday before Piers Morgan's break for the summer.
Kate and Derek married in 2005 and have two children.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Council pays £25k taxpayer cash painting double-yellow lines by beauty spots

Town hall chiefs have forked out £25,000 of taxpayers ’ cash painting double-yellow lines by beauty spots to crackdown on selfish drivers .
Derbyshire County Council took action after becoming fed-up of seeing “ ridiculous scenes ” of drivers abandoning their cars on grass verges during the lockdown .
Officers from Derbyshire Police shamed motorists by taking pictures of hundreds of cars crammed close to beauty spots .
Officials fear similar scenes this summer with the likelihood of thousands of people flocking to the Peak District to enjoy staycations .
In a bid to stop the Peaks being overrun with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ miles of double-yellow lines near the most popular areas .
Cllr Simon Spencer , Cabinet Member for Highways , Transport and Infrastructure , admitted it was “ galling ” taxpayers were being forced to foot the bill .
He said : “ We have seen some ridiculous scenes across the county over the past few months .
“ People have just been abandoning their cars wherever they like with no regard to other people , or their own safety .
“ This has meant there have been some accidents at these places .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lines our parking officers will be able to visit regularly and we will issue tickets to those who park on top of them .
“ It is galling that we are having to spend taxpayers ’ money on these lines , but we must take action to keep people safe .
“ If there is space in the car parks at Carsington or Foremark then people should park there .
“ The fee is only small and by paying for your parking you are helping to pay for the very attraction you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visiting Middle Peak Quarry , it is private land and is not somewhere people should be going .
“ I hope the action we are taking here stops people causing a nuisance to local residents . ''
Police swooped on Foremark Reservoir last month during a crackdown on dangerous parking and drivers were hit with fines and penalty points and officers also seized some cars .
Residents living near the areas most affected are calling on the council to force selfish drivers to pay the taxpayers ’ money back .
Retired engineer Alfred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ Everyone who lives in the Peaks understands tourists come here and we don ’ t mind that and encourage it for the local economy but there must be a limit .
“ Having literally hundreds of cars lining the verges near Carsington Water or other popular sites is ugly to see and dangerous for other motorists .
“ If the car parks are full then some people think it ’ s absolutely fine to leave their car on a grass verge .
There is no respect .
“ I do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be painted , especially because I abide by the law .
“ If it was up to me , these idiots would pay the money back through fines.
” Ashbourne resident Chris Spence , 40 , said : `` At a time when money is tight , it 's a shame taxpayers ' have to pay for the selfish acts of others .
`` One of the great attractions of the Peak District is its unspoiled but with double-yellows everywhere it starts to look more urbanised which is a real shame .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind is appalling too .
`` I 've noticed a definite decline in moral values when it comes to litter over the past few years . ''

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Town hall chiefs have forked out £25,000 of taxpayers’ cash painting double-yellow lines by beauty spots to crackdown on selfish drivers.
Derbyshire County Council took action after becoming fed-up of seeing “ridiculous scenes” of drivers abandoning their cars on grass verges during the lockdown.
Officers from Derbyshire Police shamed motorists by taking pictures of hundreds of cars crammed close to beauty spots.
Officials fear similar scenes this summer with the likelihood of thousands of people flocking to the Peak District to enjoy staycations.
In a bid to stop the Peaks being overrun with visitors the council has spent £25,000 painting miles of double-yellow lines near the most popular areas.
Double-yellow lines now surround Carsington Water, Foremark Reservoir and Middle Peak Quarry.
(Image: Derbyshire County Council / SWNS)
Cllr Simon Spencer, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, admitted it was “galling” taxpayers were being forced to foot the bill.
He said: “We have seen some ridiculous scenes across the county over the past few months.
“People have just been abandoning their cars wherever they like with no regard to other people, or their own safety.
“This has meant there have been some accidents at these places.
“By putting down these double yellow lines our parking officers will be able to visit regularly and we will issue tickets to those who park on top of them.
“It is galling that we are having to spend taxpayers’ money on these lines, but we must take action to keep people safe.
“If there is space in the car parks at Carsington or Foremark then people should park there.
“The fee is only small and by paying for your parking you are helping to pay for the very attraction you are visiting.
“No one should be visiting Middle Peak Quarry, it is private land and is not somewhere people should be going.
“I hope the action we are taking here stops people causing a nuisance to local residents."
(Image: Derbyshire County Council / SWNS)
Police swooped on Foremark Reservoir last month during a crackdown on dangerous parking and drivers were hit with fines and penalty points and officers also seized some cars.
Residents living near the areas most affected are calling on the council to force selfish drivers to pay the taxpayers’ money back.
Retired engineer Alfred Johnson, 60, from Matlock, said: “Everyone who lives in the Peaks understands tourists come here and we don’t mind that and encourage it for the local economy but there must be a limit.
“Having literally hundreds of cars lining the verges near Carsington Water or other popular sites is ugly to see and dangerous for other motorists.
“If the car parks are full then some people think it’s absolutely fine to leave their car on a grass verge. There is no respect.
“I do resent paying for the yellow lines to be painted, especially because I abide by the law.
“If it was up to me, these idiots would pay the money back through fines.”
Ashbourne resident Chris Spence, 40, said: "At a time when money is tight, it's a shame taxpayers' have to pay for the selfish acts of others.
"One of the great attractions of the Peak District is its unspoiled but with double-yellows everywhere it starts to look more urbanised which is a real shame.
"The rubbish some of these people leave behind is appalling too.
"I've noticed a definite decline in moral values when it comes to litter over the past few years."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Teen suffers fractured jaw in unprovoked Tamworth attack

A teenager suffered a fractured jaw and cuts to his head in an unprovoked Tamworth attack .
The shocking incident happened happened late on Friday night near to Wilnecote Fish Bar .
The man was knocked to the ground and will require extensive surgery for his injuries .
Police are now appealing for witnesses .
Staffordshire Police say : “ Officers are appealing for information after a man was seriously assaulted in Tamworth .
“ Just before midnight on Friday 26 June , a 19-year-old man was knocked to the ground and assaulted , in what is believed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place near to Wilnecote Fish Bar on Watling Street in Tamworth .
“ The victim suffered cuts to his head and a fractured jaw which requires extensive surgery .
“ The suspect is described a white , late teens and of thin build .
He was wearing a hooded top and was with two white girls of a similar age .
“ Officers are interested to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time including two passing motorists who stopped to help the victim .
“ Any witnesses or anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 101 or report online , quoting incident number 468 of 27 June .
Alternatively , contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
”

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A teenager suffered a fractured jaw and cuts to his head in an unprovoked Tamworth attack.
The shocking incident happened happened late on Friday night near to Wilnecote Fish Bar.
The man was knocked to the ground and will require extensive surgery for his injuries.
Police are now appealing for witnesses.
(Image: Google)
Staffordshire Police say: “Officers are appealing for information after a man was seriously assaulted in Tamworth.
“Just before midnight on Friday 26 June, a 19-year-old man was knocked to the ground and assaulted, in what is believed to be an unprovoked attack. The incident took place near to Wilnecote Fish Bar on Watling Street in Tamworth.
“The victim suffered cuts to his head and a fractured jaw which requires extensive surgery.
“The suspect is described a white, late teens and of thin build. He was wearing a hooded top and was with two white girls of a similar age.
“Officers are interested to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time including two passing motorists who stopped to help the victim.
“Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 or report online, quoting incident number 468 of 27 June. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Savage Piers Morgan cuts off Laura Tobin during GMB weather forecast

This is the moment Piers Morgan cut short a Good Morning Britain segment on Tuesday 's show .
The GMB presenter was back on the show presenting alongside co-host Susanna Reid on the second day of the working week .
Piers cut to Laura Tobin , the GMB weather presenter , who introduced the day 's forecast .
Laura , who returned to the ITV1 studio for the first time in four months on Monday , was giving the outlook for the coming days .
At 8.52am , she introduced viewers to the weather segment , before telling a cheeky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later on today 's show , '' Laura told viewers , before adding with a smile : `` Did you ever hear the one about the cheesy weather forecast ? ''
She then continued : `` It was rain with a slight brie-ze . ''
When the production crew started murmuring and groaning , Laura said : `` Plenty more where they came from . ''
The camera then cut to an unimpressed Piers shaking his head .
The former newspaper editor said : `` You know what ?
We are done .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and you are out of here .
`` No weather .
That 's the weather .
Piers then cut to the day 's headlines .
Ouch .
GMB airs weekdays form 6am on ITV1 with Piers hosting each Monday to Wednesday alongside Susanna .

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This is the moment Piers Morgan cut short a Good Morning Britain segment on Tuesday's show.
The GMB presenter was back on the show presenting alongside co-host Susanna Reid on the second day of the working week.
Piers cut to Laura Tobin, the GMB weather presenter, who introduced the day's forecast.
Laura, who returned to the ITV1 studio for the first time in four months on Monday, was giving the outlook for the coming days.
At 8.52am, she introduced viewers to the weather segment, before telling a cheeky joke.
"We're talking cheese later on today's show," Laura told viewers, before adding with a smile: "Did you ever hear the one about the cheesy weather forecast?"
She then continued: "It was rain with a slight brie-ze."
When the production crew started murmuring and groaning, Laura said: "Plenty more where they came from."
The camera then cut to an unimpressed Piers shaking his head.
The former newspaper editor said: "You know what? We are done. We are done. One bad joke and you are out of here.
"No weather. That's the weather.
"Thank-you."
Piers then cut to the day's headlines. Ouch.
GMB airs weekdays form 6am on ITV1 with Piers hosting each Monday to Wednesday alongside Susanna.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--MPs are demand Government plans for second wave of coronavirus

MPs are demanding the Government make plans for a second wave of coronavirus .
They want the Government to draw up a plan to ensure there is enough personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , such as gloves and facemasks , to protect NHS staff and care home workers if a second wave of the virus hits .
The demand came from the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee , including Birmingham Ladywood MP Shabanah Mahmood .
In a report published today , the MPs warned : `` We are extremely concerned by the widely reported shortages of personal protective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and careworkers during the COVID-19 pandemic . ''
And they said : `` It is absolutely vital that the same problems do not happen again in the event of a second wave . ''
The MPs said Department for Health must write to the Committee `` within two months '' to explain when it expects to have a dependable supply of PPE supply for the NHS and care sectors .
They said : `` Although the Department says it is committed to building up stocks to meet longer term demand , we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter with sufficient urgency . ''
Australia may already be experiencing a second wave of the virus .
Lockdown measures are to be reintroduced in Melbourne , Australia 's second largest city , after the state of Victoria saw a record rise in daily coronavirus cases .
England 's deputy chief medical officer , Dr Jenny Harries , last week said a second wave of coronavirus infections in the UK is `` quite a possibility '' .
Get all the latest politics updates in our daily BirminghamLive newsletter Politics plays a huge part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than we immediately realise .
News and updates on the world of politics seemed to become much more important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic as we waited for news of the Government 's responses to the crisis and how it affected our daily lives .
You can get all the latest politics updates in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article .
There are all the Government briefings and announcements as well as new laws , decisions on the economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of course local and national elections that decide who represents us .
There 's also all the news from Birmingham City Council and other Midlands authorities on housing , education , bin collections , roads , transport , public health and so much more .
And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store Downing Street yesterday declined to apologise after Boris Johnson provoked anger when he suggested “ too many ” care homes did not properly follow procedures during the coronavirus pandemic .
The Prime Minister ’ s comments were branded a “ real slap in the face ” for care workers by the Independent Care Group , while another sector leader said they were “ clumsy and cowardly ” .
Mr Johnson ’ s official spokesman was asked during a Westminster briefing what the PM had meant by the remarks .
He said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have done a brilliant job under very difficult circumstances .
“ The Prime Minister was pointing out that nobody knew what the correct procedures were because the extent of asymptomatic transmission was not known at the time.
” Asked if Mr Johnson would like to apologise or retract the comments , the spokesman said : “ As I ’ ve just set out , the PM thinks that throughout the pandemic care homes have done a brilliant job under very difficult circumstances .
”

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MPs are demanding the Government make plans for a second wave of coronavirus.
They want the Government to draw up a plan to ensure there is enough personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and facemasks, to protect NHS staff and care home workers if a second wave of the virus hits.
The demand came from the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee, including Birmingham Ladywood MP Shabanah Mahmood.
In a report published today, the MPs warned: "We are extremely concerned by the widely reported shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) faced by NHS and careworkers during the COVID-19 pandemic."
And they said: "It is absolutely vital that the same problems do not happen again in the event of a second wave."
The MPs said Department for Health must write to the Committee "within two months" to explain when it expects to have a dependable supply of PPE supply for the NHS and care sectors.
They said: "Although the Department says it is committed to building up stocks to meet longer term demand, we were not convinced that it was treating the matter with sufficient urgency."
Australia may already be experiencing a second wave of the virus. Lockdown measures are to be reintroduced in Melbourne, Australia's second largest city, after the state of Victoria saw a record rise in daily coronavirus cases.
England's deputy chief medical officer, Dr Jenny Harries, last week said a second wave of coronavirus infections in the UK is "quite a possibility".
Downing Street yesterday declined to apologise after Boris Johnson provoked anger when he suggested “too many” care homes did not properly follow procedures during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Prime Minister’s comments were branded a “real slap in the face” for care workers by the Independent Care Group, while another sector leader said they were “clumsy and cowardly”.
Mr Johnson’s official spokesman was asked during a Westminster briefing what the PM had meant by the remarks.
He said: “Throughout the pandemic, care homes have done a brilliant job under very difficult circumstances.
“The Prime Minister was pointing out that nobody knew what the correct procedures were because the extent of asymptomatic transmission was not known at the time.”
Asked if Mr Johnson would like to apologise or retract the comments, the spokesman said: “As I’ve just set out, the PM thinks that throughout the pandemic care homes have done a brilliant job under very difficult circumstances.”


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Dhu al-Hijjah 2020 - dates, meaning and virtues for holy month of Qurbani Eid

Muslims are about to enter the holy month of Dhu al-Hijjah - also written as Dhul Hijjah .
It 's the 12th and final month in the Islamic calendar .
And this year it begins in the later part of July , sometime around July 22 , depending on a sighting of the first crescent of the new moon .
Dhu al-Hijjah is important partly because it is the month in which the Hajj and the festival of Eid al-Adha take place .
But it has many virtues , according to Islamic scholars and leaders .
For Muslims , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considered to be better than all other days of the year .
The Quran mentions : `` Remember Allah ( God ) during the well-known days . ''
Many historic commentators on the Quran believe these verses specifically relate to the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah .
The Prophet Muhammad said in an authentic narration : `` The best days in this life are the ( first ) ten days of Dhu all-Hijjah . ''
In Islam , virtuous deeds are magnified during these days .
The Prophet Muhammad is documented to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah ( God ) than these ten days . ''
These ten days also include the time of the annual Hajj pilgrimage , which include the Day of Arafah on the ninth day of the month .
This is when Hajj pilgrims from all around the world , as part of the pilgrimage rituals , congregate on mount Arafah to seek Gods forgiveness .
The Prophet Muhammad said about this day : `` There is no day in which Allah ( God ) frees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( of Hell ) than the day of Arafah . ''
These ten days are concluded by the day of An-Nahr ( the day of sacrifice ) , which is the day of Eid and the major day of Hajj .
The following day is called the day of Al-Qarr .
These were mentioned by the Prophet Muhammad when he said : `` The greatest days in the scale of Allah are the days of An-Nahr and Al-Qarr . ''
So the importance of these days is well established and confirmed from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urge Muslims to use this season of worship as an opportunity to correct their faults and make up for any shortcomings .
Every one of these days involves some kind of worship through which people can draw themselves closer to God , or some blessings through which God bestows favour and mercy upon people .
The virtue of the 10 days The virtue of these ten days is based on many things : 1 .
In the Quran , Allah/God swears an oath by them , and when God swears an oath by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its importance and great benefit : '' By the dawn ; by the ten nights . ''
Quran 89 : verses 1-2 2 .
The Prophet Muhammad testified that these are the best days of this world , as already quoted above .
3 .
The Prophet Muhammad encouraged people to do righteous deeds because of the virtue of this season .
4 These ten days include the days of Hajj , such as the Day of Arafah .
So what should Muslims do during these 10 days ?
As these days are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ God , Muslims seek to appreciate this blessing and seize the opportunity by increasing in their worship .
This is indicated by the words of the Prophet Muhammad quoted above .
Some of the good deeds which Muslims should strive to do during the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are given below .
Fasting is an act of worship and devotion and can be performed in the first nine days of the month for those who are not taking part in the Hajj .
It is reported that `` the Prophet used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Dhu al-Hijjah and the day of Ashura , and three days each month , the first Monday of the month and two Thursdays . ''
Muslims must only fast on the first nine days ; the tenth day of the month is the day of Eid , a day of celebrating .
Islamic scholars are unanimously agreed that it is haraam ( forbidden ) to fast on the day of Eid al-Adha .
This celebrations are otherwise known as Big Eid , Greater Eid , Bakra Eid , Qurbani Eid and several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traditions .
Qurban or Qurbani means the ritual sacrifice of an animal during this religious observance .
Eid al-Adha translates as festival of the sacrifice .
2 .
Fasting on the Day of Arafah Scholars say that if a person can not afford to fast all nine days , he may at least fast the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah , which is known as the Day of Arafah .
The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said : `` Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for two years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following it . ''
Muslim leaders say it is a practice ( sunnah ) of the Prophet Muhammad to say tahmid ( All praise is to God ) , takbir ( God is the Greatest ) , tahlil ( there is nothing worthy of worship but God alone ) , and tasbih ( Glory be to God ) during the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah .
Usual custom is to say it audibly in the mosque , the home , the street and every place where it is permitted to remember God @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an act of worship and as a proclamation of His greatness .
The Prophet mentioned this in the following narration : `` There is no day more honorable in Allah 's sight and no acts more beloved therein to Allah than those in these ten days .
So say tahlil ( There is nothing worthy of worship but God/Allah ) , takbir ( Allah is the greatest ) and tahmid ( All praise is due to Allah ) a lot [ on those days ] . ''
Muslims are told that one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during these ten days is to perform Hajj to the Sacred House of God in Mecca .
However , this year , the Hajj has been closed due to coronavirus concerns .
Saudi Arabia says it will allow only about 1,000 pilgrims residing in the kingdom to perform the rites due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Some 2.5 million pilgrims from around the world flock annually to the city of Mecca for the ritual scheduled to begin in late July .
This year , no overseas visitors will be allowed .
One of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring a person closer to Allah during these ten days is offering a sacrifice in which the animal 's meat ( that of a cow , sheep etc ) is distributed to the poor and one ’ s family .
Anyone who wants to offer a sacrifice must stop cutting their hair and nails or removing anything from their skin from the beginning of the ten days until after he/she has offered his sacrifice .
That 's because the Prophet said : `` When you see the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sacrifice , then he should stop cutting his hair and nails until he has offered his sacrifice . ''
If a worshipper does any of these things deliberately , he must seek God ’ s forgiveness but is not required to offer an extra sacrifice in expiation .
But anyone who needs to remove hair or nails - such as having a broken nail or a wound in a site where there is hair - is allowed to do so .
There is also nothing wrong with men or women washing their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person originally has no intention to offer a sacrifice , goes ahead with cutting his hair or nails during the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah , then decides later , during the ten days , to offer a sacrifice , then he must refrain from cutting his hair and nails from the moment he makes this decision .
Scholars say that one of the most important things to do during these ten days is to repent sincerely to God and to give up all kinds of disobedience and sin .
Prayer ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the great acts of worship in Islam .
It is highly recommended to perform it in congregation as mentioned in the Quran : `` And bow ( in rukoo ) with those who bow . ''
( Quran 2:43 ) The Prophet Muhammad also said : `` Salah is the best thing that one can do , so perform as many as you possibly can . ''
And he also said : `` Two light rak'ahs ( 2 units of prayer ) which you may think as insignificant to add to you deeds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole world . ''
Mosques recently opened for congregational prayer - with social distancing guidelines in place .
Worshippers are advised to occupy themselves at this blessed time with acts of worship like remembering God , reading the Qur ’ an , making supplications , giving to charity , showing dutifulness to parents and other general good deeds .
Islamic leaders point out that `` the special merits and excellences associated with the days of Dhul-Hijjah are in no small measure due to the fact that they coincide with the performance of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen as a means by which those who are not on the Hajj can show spiritual and emotional solidarity with the pilgrims .
One mosque official said : `` As the pilgrims are engaged in performing the great rites of Hajj , Muslims - wherever they are - are also encouraged to partake in something of the great spiritual feast by performing such acts of virtue and devotion as they are capable of . ''

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Muslims are about to enter the holy month of Dhu al-Hijjah - also written as Dhul Hijjah.
It's the 12th and final month in the Islamic calendar.
And this year it begins in the later part of July, sometime around July 22, depending on a sighting of the first crescent of the new moon.
Dhu al-Hijjah is important partly because it is the month in which the Hajj and the festival of Eid al-Adha take place.
But it has many virtues, according to Islamic scholars and leaders.
(Image: BirminghamLive / Darren Quinton)
For Muslims, the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are considered to be better than all other days of the year. The Quran mentions: "Remember Allah (God) during the well-known days."
Many historic commentators on the Quran believe these verses specifically relate to the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah.
The Prophet Muhammad said in an authentic narration: "The best days in this life are the (first) ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah."
In Islam, virtuous deeds are magnified during this period. The Prophet Muhammad is documented to have said: "There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah (God) than these ten days."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
These ten days also include the time of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which include the Day of Arafah on the ninth day of the month.
This is when Hajj pilgrims from all around the world, as part of the pilgrimage rituals, congregate on mount Arafah to seek God's forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad said about this day: "There is no day in which Allah (God) frees more of His slaves from The Fire (of Hell) than the day of Arafah."
These ten days are concluded by the day of An-Nahr (the day of sacrifice), which is the day of Eid and the major day of Hajj. The following day is called the day of Al-Qarr.
These were mentioned by the Prophet Muhammad when he said: "The greatest days in the scale of Allah are the days of An-Nahr and Al-Qarr."
So the importance of these days appears to be well established and confirmed from the Quran and Islamic traditions.
Islamic leaders urge Muslims to use this season of worship as an opportunity to correct their faults and make up for any shortcomings.
Every one of these days involves some kind of worship through which people can draw themselves closer to God, or some blessings through which God bestows favour and mercy upon people.
The virtue of the 10 days
Scholars say the virtue of these ten days is based on many things:
1. In the Quran, Allah/God swears an oath by them, and when God swears an oath by something, it is an indication of its importance and great benefit:
"By the dawn; by the ten nights." Quran 89: verses 1-2
2. The Prophet Muhammad testified that these are the best days of this world, as already quoted above.
3. The Prophet Muhammad encouraged people to do righteous deeds because of the virtue of this season.
4 These ten days include the days of Hajj, such as the Day of Arafah.
Recommended acts of worship
So what should Muslims do during these 10 days?
As these days are considered special and a great blessing from God, Muslims seek to appreciate this and seize the opportunity by increasing their worship.
Some of the good deeds which scholars say Muslims should strive to do during the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are given below.
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1. Fasting
Fasting is an act of worship and devotion and can be performed in the first nine days of the month for those not taking part in the Hajj.
It is reported that "the Prophet used to fast on the first nine days of Dhu al-Hijjah and the day of Ashura, and three days each month, the first Monday of the month and two Thursdays."
Muslims must only fast on the first nine days; the tenth day of the month is the day of Eid, a day of celebrating.
Islamic scholars are unanimously agreed that it is haram (forbidden) to fast on the day of Eid al-Adha.
This celebrations are otherwise known as Big Eid, Greater Eid, Bakra Eid, Qurbani Eid and several other names, depending on locations and traditions.
Qurban or Qurbani means the ritual sacrifice of an animal during this religious observance. Eid al-Adha translates as festival of the sacrifice.
2. Fasting on the Day of Arafah
Scholars say that if a person cannot afford to fast all nine days, he may at least fast the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, which is known as the Day of Arafah.
The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said: "Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for two years, the year preceding it and the year following it."
3. Takbir
Muslim leaders say it is a practice (sunnah) of the Prophet Muhammad to say tahmid (All praise is to God), takbir (God is the Greatest), tahlil (there is nothing worthy of worship but God alone), and tasbih (Glory be to God) during the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Usual custom is to say it audibly in the mosque, the home, the street and "every place where it is permitted to remember God and mention His name out loud, as an act of worship and as a proclamation of His greatness."
The Prophet mentioned this in the following narration: "There is no day more honorable in Allah's sight and no acts more beloved therein to Allah than those in these ten days. So say tahlil (There is nothing worthy of worship but God/Allah), takbir (Allah is the greatest) and tahmid (All praise is due to Allah) a lot [on those days]."
3. Performing Hajj
Muslims are told that one of the best deeds they can do during these ten days is to perform Hajj to the Sacred House of God in Mecca.
However, this year, the Hajj has been closed due to coronavirus concerns. Saudi Arabia says it will allow only about 1,000 pilgrims residing in the kingdom to perform the rites due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Some 2.5 million pilgrims from around the world flock annually to the city of Mecca for the ritual scheduled to begin in late July. This year, no overseas visitors will be allowed.
5. Qurbani / Sacrifice
One of the good deeds that is said to bring a person closer to Allah during these ten days is offering a sacrifice in which the animal's meat (that of a cow, sheep etc) is distributed to the poor as well as among one's family.
Anyone who wants to offer a sacrifice must stop cutting their hair and nails or removing anything from their skin from the beginning of the ten days until after he/she has offered his sacrifice.
That's because the Prophet said: "When you see the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah, if any one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, then he should stop cutting his hair and nails until he has offered his sacrifice."
If a worshipper does any of these things deliberately, he must seek God’s forgiveness but is not required to offer an extra sacrifice in expiation.
But anyone who needs to remove hair or nails - such as having a broken nail or a wound in a site where there is hair - is allowed to do so.
There is also nothing wrong with men or women washing their hair during these days, scholars say.
If a person originally has no intention to offer a sacrifice, goes ahead with cutting his hair or nails during the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah, then decides later, during the ten days, to offer a sacrifice, then he must refrain from cutting his hair and nails from the moment he makes this decision.
6. Sincere repentance
Muslim officials say that one of the most important things to do during these ten days is to repent sincerely to God and to give up all kinds of disobedience and sin.
7. Prayer / Salah
Prayer (salah) is regarded as one of the great acts of worship in Islam.
It is highly recommended to perform it in congregation as mentioned in the Quran: "And bow (in rukoo) with those who bow." (Quran 2:43)
The Prophet Muhammad also said: "Salah is the best thing that one can do, so perform as many as you possibly can."
And he also said: "Two light rak'ahs (2 units of prayer) which you may think as insignificant to add to you deeds, is better for you than possessing the whole world."
Mosques recently opened for congregational prayer - with social distancing guidelines in place.
8. Doing more good deeds
Worshippers are advised to occupy themselves at this blessed time with acts of worship such as remembering God, reading the Qur’an, making supplications, giving to charity, showing dutifulness to parents and other general good deeds.
Islamic leaders point out that "the special merits and excellences associated with the days of Dhul-Hijjah are in no small measure due to the fact that they coincide with the performance of the Hajj."
It is therefore seen as a means by which those who are not on the Hajj can show spiritual and emotional solidarity with the pilgrims.
One mosque official said: "As the pilgrims are engaged in performing the great rites of Hajj, Muslims - wherever they are - are also encouraged to partake in something of the great spiritual feast by performing such acts of virtue and devotion as they are capable of."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Wolves given Champions League hope as rivals slip up

It 's been another big night in the Champions League race with Wolverhampton Wanderers ' rivals picking up mixed results .
Chelsea edged past Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park with a 3-2 win to lift them up to third spot , while Arsenal and Leicester City played out a 1-1 draw at The Emirates .
Leicester are fourth with 59 points , seven ahead of sixth-place Wolves though Nuno Espirito Santo 's side have a game in hand .
Wolves play that game away to Sheffield United on Wednesday and desperately need three points to keep their Champions League hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday dented Wolves ' ambitions but the Gunners are nine points off the pace after their draw with Leicester , with only four games to play .
Wolves still , of course , have Chelsea to play at Stamford Bridge on the final day .
Kev Baker : `` Probably a decent result for us in the end there .
Tomorrow night is a huge game now . ''
Matt Cook : `` Decent result that is for us , many more twists and turns to come .
Big game tomorrow now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Positives tonight : Chelsea look beatable , Leicester drop points , Arsenal winning run ends , we ’ re still top six .
Massive opportunity to gain ground again tomorrow . ''
John Coleman : `` With four teams breathing down our necks I 'll be more than happy to finish sixth and straight into the ( Europa League ) group stages next season ... .
five cup finals coming up . ''

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It's been another big night in the Champions League race with Wolverhampton Wanderers' rivals picking up mixed results.
Chelsea edged past Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park with a 3-2 win to lift them up to third spot, while Arsenal and Leicester City played out a 1-1 draw at The Emirates.
Leicester are fourth with 59 points, seven ahead of sixth-place Wolves though Nuno Espirito Santo's side have a game in hand.
Wolves play that game away to Sheffield United on Wednesday and desperately need three points to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
Arsenal's win at Molineux on Saturday dented Wolves' ambitions but the Gunners are nine points off the pace after their draw with Leicester, with only four games to play.
Wolves still, of course, have Chelsea to play at Stamford Bridge on the final day.
Here's how Wolves supporters tuning into Tuesday night's Premier League action reacted...
Kev Baker: "Probably a decent result for us in the end there. Tomorrow night is a huge game now."
Matt Cook: "Decent result that is for us, many more twists and turns to come. Big game tomorrow now for us."
Adam Field: "Positives tonight: Chelsea look beatable, Leicester drop points, Arsenal winning run ends, we’re still top six. Massive opportunity to gain ground again tomorrow."
John Coleman: "With four teams breathing down our necks I'll be more than happy to finish sixth and straight into the (Europa League) group stages next season.... five cup finals coming up."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Government to pay wages for workers under 25 to prevent mass unemployment

The Government is to pay the wages of hundreds of thousands of young workers , in a £2bn attempt to prevent a generation being consigned to the unemployment queue .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak will announce the unprecedented measures today ( Wednesday July 8 ) , as he sets out plans to get the economy moving following the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown .
There are fears that a massive increase in unemployment will hit young people in particular , damaging their prospects for life .
Mr Sunak will launch a `` Kickstart '' scheme in which employers will be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young people aged between 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment .
The Treasury will pay their wages , covering 100 % of the minimum wage for 25 hours a week .
Employers will be free to top up salaries if they wish .
Mr Sunak will say the aim is to give young people the opportunity to build their skills in the workplace , and to gain experience that will improve their chances of going on to find long-term sustainable work .
He said : “ Young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crises , but they are at particular risk this time because they work in the sectors disproportionately hit by the pandemic .
`` We also know that youth unemployment has a long-term impact on jobs and wages and we don ’ t want to see that happen to this generation .
`` So we ’ ve got a bold plan to protect , support and create jobs – a Plan for Jobs . ''
Around 700,000 young people are leaving education this year , and will be entering the labour market at an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show there are already almost 500,000 young people aged 24 and under on Universal Credit .
That figure increased by a quarter of a million in just two months .
The Kickstart Scheme will be open to funding applications from August 2020 , and the first jobs will begin in the autumn .
Get all the latest politics updates in our daily BirminghamLive newsletter Politics plays a huge part in all our lives , much more than we immediately realise .
News and updates on the world of politics seemed to become much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic as we waited for news of the Government 's responses to the crisis and how it affected our daily lives .
You can get all the latest politics updates in our BirminghamLive daily newsletter .
Sign up here or fill in the box at the top of the article .
There are all the Government briefings and announcements as well as new laws , decisions on the economy that affect businesses and our personal finances , policies on benefits such as Universal Credit and of course local and national elections that decide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the news from Birmingham City Council and other Midlands authorities on housing , education , bin collections , roads , transport , public health and so much more .
And how much council tax they 'll charge us for delivering those services .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Find it on Google Play Store and App Store In a statement to Parliament setting out the Government 's economic plans , Mr Sunak is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investment to triple the scale of traineeships in 2020-21 .
There will be an extra £32m for the National Careers Service to provide tailored jobs advice to a quarter of a million more young people , and £17 million of funding to almost triple the number of sector-based work academy placements in 2020-21 .
And he will confirm plans to create `` green '' jobs , including by subsidising home improvements with £2bn government funding .
Hundreds of thousands of households will receive vouchers of up to £5,000 , or up to £10,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to subsidise the cost of making their homes more energy efficient , for example by fitting insulation .
Under the scheme , the Government will pay at least two thirds of the cost of the improvements .
The economic crisis facing the UK is worse than after the banking crisis of 2008 .
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has warned that the UK unemployment rate is likely to reach a record high of up to 11.7 % by the end of this year - or 14.8 % if there is a @ @ @ @ @

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The Government is to pay the wages of hundreds of thousands of young workers, in a £2bn attempt to prevent a generation being consigned to the unemployment queue.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak will announce the unprecedented measures today (Wednesday July 8), as he sets out plans to get the economy moving following the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown.
There are fears that a massive increase in unemployment will hit young people in particular, damaging their prospects for life.
Mr Sunak will launch a "Kickstart" scheme in which employers will be able to offer a six-month work placement, for young people aged between 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.
The Treasury will pay their wages, covering 100% of the minimum wage for 25 hours a week. Employers will be free to top up salaries if they wish.
Mr Sunak will say the aim is to give young people the opportunity to build their skills in the workplace, and to gain experience that will improve their chances of going on to find long-term sustainable work.
He said: “Young people bear the brunt of most economic crises, but they are at particular risk this time because they work in the sectors disproportionately hit by the pandemic.
"We also know that youth unemployment has a long-term impact on jobs and wages and we don’t want to see that happen to this generation.
"So we’ve got a bold plan to protect, support and create jobs – a Plan for Jobs."
Around 700,000 young people are leaving education this year, and will be entering the labour market at an extremely difficult time. Figures from May show there are already almost 500,000 young people aged 24 and under on Universal Credit. That figure increased by a quarter of a million in just two months.
The Kickstart Scheme will be open to funding applications from August 2020, and the first jobs will begin in the autumn.
In a statement to Parliament setting out the Government's economic plans, Mr Sunak is also expected to announce a £111 million investment to triple the scale of traineeships in 2020-21.
There will be an extra £32m for the National Careers Service to provide tailored jobs advice to a quarter of a million more young people, and £17 million of funding to almost triple the number of sector-based work academy placements in 2020-21.
And he will confirm plans to create "green" jobs, including by subsidising home improvements with £2bn government funding.
Hundreds of thousands of households will receive vouchers of up to £5,000, or up to £10,000 for some of the poorest families, to subsidise the cost of making their homes more energy efficient, for example by fitting insulation.
Under the scheme, the Government will pay at least two thirds of the cost of the improvements.
The economic crisis facing the UK is worse than after the banking crisis of 2008. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has warned that the UK unemployment rate is likely to reach a record high of up to 11.7% by the end of this year - or 14.8% if there is a second wave of coronavirus.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Euromillions results: Winning National Lottery numbers for Tuesday

It ’ s an exciting night for Euromillions players as Camelot plans to dish out multiple prizes to players across the UK .
The EuroMillions draw takes place every Tuesday and Friday at approximately 8pm .
The two special draws are being held to celebrate changes to the EuroMillions game which Camelot says will give players the chance of winning bigger jackpot prizes more often .
A spokesman for Camelot said : “ More prize money will go into the jackpot - plus there will be a prize cap increase to 200M Euros ( up from 190M Euros ) - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more often .
“ The changes , which will also see more special promotional draws in the year , came into effect from 1 February , with the first draw on Tuesday 4 February 2020 .
“ EuroMillions UK Millionaire Maker guarantees to create a millionaire in every draw , but in the EuroMillions draw on Tuesday , February 4 , an additional 19 lucky winners will be able to look forward to becoming an overnight millionaire .
For every EuroMillions line played , UK players automatically receive a EuroMillions Millionaire Maker code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the EuroMillions draw are 41 , 33 , 23 , 12 , 16 UK Millionaire Raffle Selection - one UK millionaire has been created : VTXT72321

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It’s an exciting night for Euromillions players as Camelot plans to dish out multiple prizes to players across the UK.
The EuroMillions draw takes place every Tuesday and Friday at approximately 8pm.
The two special draws are being held to celebrate changes to the EuroMillions game which Camelot says will give players the chance of winning bigger jackpot prizes more often.
A spokesman for Camelot said: “More prize money will go into the jackpot - plus there will be a prize cap increase to 200M Euros (up from 190M Euros) - meaning an increased chance of bigger jackpots more often.
“The changes, which will also see more special promotional draws in the year, came into effect from 1 February, with the first draw on Tuesday 4 February 2020.
“EuroMillions UK Millionaire Maker guarantees to create a millionaire in every draw, but in the EuroMillions draw on Tuesday, February 4, an additional 19 lucky winners will be able to look forward to becoming an overnight millionaire. For every EuroMillions line played, UK players automatically receive a EuroMillions Millionaire Maker code printed on their ticket.”
Winning numbers in the EuroMillions draw are 41, 33, 23, 12, 16
The Lucky Star numbers are 08, 10
Tuesday's estimated jackpot is £127 million
UK Millionaire Raffle Selection - one UK millionaire has been created: VTXT72321
The National Lottery Thunderball winning numbers are 02, 09, 11, 15, 20
The Thunderball is 13


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Kasabian issue damning statement over Tom Meighan's assault on partner

Tom Meighan 's former Kasabian bandmates have condemned his `` totally unacceptable '' behaviour after he admitted assaulting his partner .
After the former frontman was ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work in court on Tuesday , the band said in a statement posted on Twitter : `` We have all worked so hard for the past 23 years and had big plans for our future together .
We 're completely heartbroken .
`` But we were left with no choice but to ask Tom to leave the band .
There is absolutely no way we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violence and abuse of any kind is totally unacceptable .
`` As soon as we found out about the charges made against Tom , we as a band made the decision that we could no longer work with him . ''
The statement added : `` Ultimately , as much as Tom has hurt us all , we 're not the victim in all of this .
Domestic violence is something that can never be excused . ''
Meighan 's departure from Kasabian leaves guitarist Serge Pizzorno and bassist Chris Edwards as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drummer Ian Matthews joining the group in 2004 .
In the statement released on Tuesday evening , the band members said they `` were left with no choice but to ask Tom to leave the band '' .
`` As soon as we found out about the charges made against Tom , we as a band made the decision that we could no longer work with him , '' they said .
It is not clear whether Kasabian will seek to replace Meighan as lead vocalist .

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Tom Meighan's former Kasabian bandmates have condemned his "totally unacceptable" behaviour after he admitted assaulting his partner.
After the former frontman was ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work in court on Tuesday, the band said in a statement posted on Twitter: "We have all worked so hard for the past 23 years and had big plans for our future together. We're completely heartbroken.
"But we were left with no choice but to ask Tom to leave the band. There is absolutely no way we can condone his assault conviction.
"Domestic violence and abuse of any kind is totally unacceptable.
"As soon as we found out about the charges made against Tom, we as a band made the decision that we could no longer work with him."
The statement added: "Ultimately, as much as Tom has hurt us all, we're not the victim in all of this. Domestic violence is something that can never be excused."
Meighan's departure from Kasabian leaves guitarist Serge Pizzorno and bassist Chris Edwards as the only remaining founding members, with current drummer Ian Matthews joining the group in 2004.
In the statement released on Tuesday evening, the band members said they "were left with no choice but to ask Tom to leave the band".
"As soon as we found out about the charges made against Tom, we as a band made the decision that we could no longer work with him," they said.
It is not clear whether Kasabian will seek to replace Meighan as lead vocalist.


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Fire rips through derelict factory unit

Fire rips through derelict factory unit

Fire crews from across the Black Country have been battling a blaze at a derelict factory in Tipton .
Firefighters were called to the fire in the former factory unit in Lacarno Road , this afternoon ( Tuesday , July 7 ) .
Appliances from Tipton , Brierley Hill , Dudley , Bilston and West Bromwich were drafted in to douse the flames .
It is not currently clear if anyone has been injured during the incident and the cause of the blaze is not yet known .
Black Country Live has contacted West Midlands Fire Service , the ambulance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Footage recorded by a nearby resident shows smoke billowing into the sky , with orange flames glowing behind the trees - you can watch the video above .
West Midlands Fire Service tweeted about the incident , warning residents to keep their windows and doors closed .
The post said : `` Crews from Tipton , Brierley Hill , Dudley , Bilston and West Bromwich are attending a fire at Lacarno Road , Tipton .
`` Incident involves fire in derelict factory unit .
Crews working hard to bring fire under control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close doors and windows as a precaution . ''

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Fire crews from across the Black Country have been battling a blaze at a derelict factory in Tipton.
Firefighters were called to the fire in the former factory unit in Lacarno Road, this afternoon (Tuesday, July 7). Appliances from Tipton, Brierley Hill, Dudley, Bilston and West Bromwich were drafted in to douse the flames.
It is not currently clear if anyone has been injured during the incident and the cause of the blaze is not yet known.
(Image: Sophie Parkes)
Black Country Live has contacted West Midlands Fire Service, the ambulance service and the police for more information.
Footage recorded by a nearby resident shows smoke billowing into the sky, with orange flames glowing behind the trees - you can watch the video above.
West Midlands Fire Service tweeted about the incident, warning residents to keep their windows and doors closed. The post said: "Crews from Tipton, Brierley Hill, Dudley, Bilston and West Bromwich are attending a fire at Lacarno Road,Tipton.
"Incident involves fire in derelict factory unit. Crews working hard to bring fire under control. If you live nearby, please close doors and windows as a precaution."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Ian Taylor says what every Villa fan is thinking after brutal blow

Aston Villa suffered another relegation blow on Tuesday night as Watford defeated Norwich City 2-1 .
Goals from Craig Dawson and Danny Welbeck pulled Watford four points clear of 18th-place Villa .
who host the Premier League 's in-form team Manchester United on Thursday .
Villa still have games against United , Crystal Palace , Everton , Arsenal and West Ham to come but things are looking bleak for Dean Smith 's men .
Club legend Ian Taylor - who is also a die hard Villan - summed up the emotions of Villa fans perfectly in just three letters .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ after watching Watford come from behind to beat rock bottom Norwich .
Here 's how a selection of Villa fans reacted to the result ... Adam Crowe : `` Heartbreaking this is .
Just put me out my misery will ya . ''
@ AVL8ton : `` We ’ ve now got to win two games out of remaining five , and still that might not be enough .
We ’ re down .
Face reality . ''
Tom Parker : `` I really wish Doug Ellis had never invented the bicycle kick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who thinks we will stay up , with being four points behind Watford after tonight , really needs a reality check .
We have n't got a clinical goalscorer , we have the worst defence in the league and Smith wo n't start any youth players .
We are down , accept it . ''

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Aston Villa suffered another relegation blow on Tuesday night as Watford defeated Norwich City 2-1.
Goals from Craig Dawson and Danny Welbeck pulled Watford four points clear of 18th-place Villa. who host the Premier League's in-form team Manchester United on Thursday.
Villa still have games against United, Crystal Palace, Everton, Arsenal and West Ham to come but things are looking bleak for Dean Smith's men.
Club legend Ian Taylor - who is also a die hard Villan - summed up the emotions of Villa fans perfectly in just three letters.
"FFS...." tweeted Taylor after watching Watford come from behind to beat rock bottom Norwich.
Here's how a selection of Villa fans reacted to the result...
Adam Crowe: "Heartbreaking this is. Just put me out my misery will ya."
@AVL8ton: "We’ve now got to win two games out of remaining five, and still that might not be enough. We’re down. Face reality."
@Atif21: "Always preferred a 46 game league season anyway."
Tom Parker: "I really wish Doug Ellis had never invented the bicycle kick."
Ash Skinner: "Anyone who thinks we will stay up, with being four points behind Watford after tonight, really needs a reality check. We haven't got a clinical goalscorer, we have the worst defence in the league and Smith won't start any youth players. We are down, accept it."


birminghammail--2020-07-07--Aston Villa transfer news live: £20m release clause blow, Man United build-up

Hello and welcome to Tuesday 's LIVE coverage of Aston Villa from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you up @ @ @ @ @ latest news and views from Villa Park as Dean Smith 's side continue to battle @ @ @ @ @ .
Five games are left for Villa , who are a point adrift of safety @ @ @ @ @ save their season after Sunday 's 2-0 defeat at Premier League champions Liverpool .
We @ @ @ @ @ on what 's happening elsewhere , with Watford playing Norwich City tonight in a match @ @ @ @ @ down at the bottom of the table .
And with transfer news and rumours flying @ @ @ @ @ you 're kept across all the latest on our live blog .
Follow all the @ @ @

Aston Villa were blown away by rampant Manchester United as Jon Moss's harsh first-half penalty call condemned Dean Smith's men yet another defeat.
It was referee Moss who put the nail in Villa's coffin after he adjudged Ezri Konsa to have bundled over Bruno Fernandes despite the Portuguese appearing to fall over after his swivel in the box went wrong.
Fernandes, though, slotted home the penalty which was converted just minuted after Trezeguet hit the post during a three-vs-two breakaway in Villa's favour.
As the half went on, despondent Villa couldn't get to grips with United's power on the break and, just before half time, red-hot youngster Mason Greenwood spanked home a sensational second.
Smith failed to rally the troops after the break and 13 minutes after the restart Paul Pogba passed home an easy - and cool - finish down low for goal number three.
The onslaught soon after with United playing as if it was a training game at Carrington. Anthony Martial struck the woodwork while, late on, Pepe Reina thwarted Marcus Rashford with a save with his legs one-on-one.
Villa had just one shot on target all night as United recorded their fourth-straight victory by a three-goal margin - a Premier League record.
As for Smith's men, they've dropped down a place to 19th after Bournemouth's point against Spurs. It's Crystal Palace up next on Sunday with Villa still four points adrift as the games tick away.