birminghammail--2020-03-23--ADVERTORIAL: Lottery winner rings husband but doesn't get reaction to jackpot she expects

When Pamela Macaskill found out she had scooped £193,055 on the People 's Postcode Lottery she was absolutely thrilled .
The 43-year-old was one of 101 winners who shared a £3million prize who live on a remote island in the Outer Hebrides , off the west coast of Scotland .
The winners from North Uist and Berneray hit the jackpot as their postcode sector is HS6 5 .
The local village hall was bursting at the seams to cope with winners collecting money - and Pam could n't wait to ring her builder husband Angus to tell him the good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to him on the phone , he was n't having any of it .
Pamela recalled : `` Angus didn ’ t believe me !
He wasn ’ t taking anything in ! ''
She eventually managed to convince him she had indeed won the bumper prize and the couple - along with their daughters Lucy , 14 , and 12-year-old Faye - are now planning how to spend their winnings .
Pamela , who works at Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre , explained : `` Angus will get a new quad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I love Disney so I might take my girls to Florida one day in the future , but I guess I should go somewhere a bit different with this amount .
Maybe Finland , or somewhere hot .
`` It ’ s my sister ’ s fortieth soon so we can take a girls ’ trip away once we 're ok to travel .
I don ’ t know , there are so many options !
’ Sign up now for the People 's Postcode Lottery 's £50k April draw - closing date @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caroline Macdonald also scooped £42,850 in the draw .
One other winner picked up £193,055 , while the remaining residents in the sector received cheques ranging from £21,425 to £64,275 .
When asked what she ’ d do tonight to celebrate after receiving the news earlier this year , Pamela said she ’ d be stopping by fellow winner Caroline ’ s house .
She added : `` I ’ m not going home , I ’ m going to the pub !
I ’ ll be stopping by Caroline ’ s fridge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up with all sorts of good stuff so lots of us will be there celebrating !
’ People ’ s Postcode Lottery ambassador and former X Factor star , Danyl Johnson , hosted the event at Carinish Village Hall where he presented cheques to the winners .
Danyl said : “ It ’ s certainly been a day to remember in North Uist .
We ’ ve had prizes in big cities and small villages all over the country , but we ’ ve never been to place quite like this before .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been so friendly , you can really feel the sense of community here .
I am thrilled for all our winners and I know that this prize will not only benefit them , but will have a huge positive impact on everyone on the islands.
” With a minimum of 32 % of every ticket going to charity , players have raised over £500 million for thousands of charities and good causes to date .
This Postcode Millions draw was held on behalf of Postcode Animal Trust .
It supports charities which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good causes have benefitted from player support too .
Woodland Trust has received over £11.8 million thanks to players , and part of this funding will enable local island primary , Sgoil Uibhist a Tuath , to plant 420 trees to create a new native woodland area Another nearby cause , Volunteering Hebrides , received £19,861 to support people who are housebound due to physical or mental health issues .
The project helped people who may otherwise have experienced social isolation to connect with each other .

When Pamela Macaskill found out she had scooped £193,055 on the People's Postcode Lottery she was absolutely thrilled.
The 43-year-old was one of 101 winners who shared a £3million prize who live on a remote island in the Outer Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland.
The winners from North Uist and Berneray hit the jackpot as their postcode sector is HS6 5.
The local village hall was bursting at the seams to cope with winners collecting money - and Pam couldn't wait to ring her builder husband Angus to tell him the good news.
But when she got through to him on the phone, he wasn't having any of it.
Pamela recalled: "Angus didn’t believe me! He wasn’t taking anything in!"
She eventually managed to convince him she had indeed won the bumper prize and the couple - along with their daughters Lucy, 14, and 12-year-old Faye - are now planning how to spend their winnings.
Pamela, who works at Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre, explained: "Angus will get a new quad bike if he’s lucky. I love Disney so I might take my girls to Florida one day in the future, but I guess I should go somewhere a bit different with this amount. Maybe Finland, or somewhere hot.
"It’s my sister’s fortieth soon so we can take a girls’ trip away once we're ok to travel. I don’t know, there are so many options!’
Pamela's neighbour Caroline Macdonald also scooped £42,850 in the draw. One other winner picked up £193,055, while the remaining residents in the sector received cheques ranging from £21,425 to £64,275.
When asked what she’d do tonight to celebrate after receiving the news earlier this year, Pamela said she’d be stopping by fellow winner Caroline’s house.
She added: "I’m not going home, I’m going to the pub! I’ll be stopping by Caroline’s fridge tonight too. It’s stocked up with all sorts of good stuff so lots of us will be there celebrating!’
People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador and former X Factor star, Danyl Johnson, hosted the event at Carinish Village Hall where he presented cheques to the winners.
Danyl said: “It’s certainly been a day to remember in North Uist. We’ve had prizes in big cities and small villages all over the country, but we’ve never been to place quite like this before. The views here are stunning and everyone has been so friendly, you can really feel the sense of community here. I am thrilled for all our winners and I know that this prize will not only benefit them, but will have a huge positive impact on everyone on the islands.”
With a minimum of 32% of every ticket going to charity, players have raised over £500 million for thousands of charities and good causes to date. This Postcode Millions draw was held on behalf of Postcode Animal Trust. It supports charities which promote animal welfare and conservation.
Local good causes have benefitted from player support too. Woodland Trust has received over £11.8 million thanks to players, and part of this funding will enable local island primary, Sgoil Uibhist a Tuath, to plant 420 trees to create a new native woodland area
Another nearby cause, Volunteering Hebrides, received £19,861 to support people who are housebound due to physical or mental health issues. The project helped people who may otherwise have experienced social isolation to connect with each other.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--What is Netflix Party and how it works amid coronavirus pandemic

Netflix has launched Netflix Party amid the coronavirus pandemic , offering viewers a new way to watch Netflix with your friends online .
On its website , the streaming service - which streams everything from Peaky Blinders and Orange is the New Black to The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina - says : `` Netflix Party synchronizes video playback and adds group chat to your favorite Netflix shows . ''
The platform continues : `` Join over 1,000,000 people and use Netflix Party to link up with friends and host long distance movie nights and TV watch parties today ! ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ where you discuss what ’ s happening on screen as it happens without ANY spoilers because they started 10 minutes ahead of you .
Subscribers across the UK can get Netflix Party for free - meaning the prospect of self-isolation amid the coronavirus pandemic looks far less daunting .
But be warned : Netflix Party is ONLY available on Chrome browsers on desktop or laptop computers .
Netflix continues : `` As of Sunday March 22 , 2020 , the latest version 1.7.5 of Netflix Party is broken and users are experiencing serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Version 1.7.7 contains a fix which should be publicly released by Tuesday 3/24/20 at the latest .
We recommend waiting until Tuesday to install Netflix Party . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Peaky Blinders straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest news from Peaky Blinders straight to your inbox
Netflix has launched Netflix Party amid the coronavirus pandemic, offering viewers a new way to watch Netflix with your friends online.
On its website, the streaming service - which streams everything from Peaky Blinders and Orange is the New Black to The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina - says: "Netflix Party synchronizes video playback and adds group chat to your favorite Netflix shows."
The platform continues: "Join over 1,000,000 people and use Netflix Party to link up with friends and host long distance movie nights and TV watch parties today!"
You can also add a chat feature where you discuss what’s happening on screen as it happens without ANY spoilers because they started 10 minutes ahead of you.
Subscribers across the UK can get Netflix Party for free - meaning the prospect of self-isolation amid the coronavirus pandemic looks far less daunting.
But be warned: Netflix Party is ONLY available on Chrome browsers on desktop or laptop computers.
Netflix continues: "As of Sunday March 22, 2020, the latest version 1.7.5 of Netflix Party is broken and users are experiencing serious issues starting and joining Netflix parties.
"Version 1.7.7 contains a fix which should be publicly released by Tuesday 3/24/20 at the latest. We recommend waiting until Tuesday to install Netflix Party."


birminghammail--2020-03-23--Grieving family pay tribute to 'most loving' mum who died following collision

The family of a `` beautiful grandmother '' who died following a collision in Alum Rock have appealed for information .
Sultan Bi was struck by a Toyota Corolla Verso on the car park near to Azad Supermarket , Alum Rock Road , at around 10.50am on March 4 .
The 62-year-old was taken to hospital with fractures to her spine but she sadly passed away a fortnight later , on March 16 .
Speaking for the first time , her devastated family said : “ Our mum was the most loving and caring person , she was a beautiful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and friend to many people and leaves a huge void in all our lives .
“ We urge witnesses to come forward with any information surrounding the incident , however small they feel .
“ We are devastated by the loss of our mum , our lives will be empty without her .
We ask that our privacy is respected at this difficult time . ''
Police said the driver of the Corolla , a 69-year-old man , remained at the scene and is helping officers with their enquiries .
Police are now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vicinity to come forward .
Sergeant Alan Hands , from the serious collision investigation unit , said : “ Our thoughts are with the family of Ms Bi at this terrible time .
“ We ’ re keen to hear from anyone who was in the Alum Rock area around the time of the collision and may have information to assist our enquiries.
” Information can be given by contacting collision investigators on FL_COLLISION_INVEST @ west-midlands.pnn.police.uk or via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight .
Please quote log 1202 of 4/3/20 @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
The family of a "beautiful grandmother" who died following a collision in Alum Rock have appealed for information.
Sultan Bi was struck by a Toyota Corolla Verso on the car park near to Azad Supermarket, Alum Rock Road, at around 10.50am on March 4.
The 62-year-old was taken to hospital with fractures to her spine but she sadly passed away a fortnight later, on March 16.
Speaking for the first time, her devastated family said: “Our mum was the most loving and caring person, she was a beautiful mother, grandma, nan, auntie and friend to many people and leaves a huge void in all our lives.
“We urge witnesses to come forward with any information surrounding the incident, however small they feel.
“We are devastated by the loss of our mum, our lives will be empty without her. We ask that our privacy is respected at this difficult time."
Police said the driver of the Corolla, a 69-year-old man, remained at the scene and is helping officers with their enquiries.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Police are now appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity to come forward.
Sergeant Alan Hands, from the serious collision investigation unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the family of Ms Bi at this terrible time.
“We’re keen to hear from anyone who was in the Alum Rock area around the time of the collision and may have information to assist our enquiries.”
Information can be given by contacting collision investigators on FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk or via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight.
Please quote log 1202 of 4/3/20.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--Piers Morgan wants anyone flouting self-isolation advice arrested

Piers Morgan wants anybody flouting self-isolation advice during the coronavirus pandemic to be ARRESTED .
The controversial Good Morning Britain presenter made the claim during Monday 's broadcast of the ITV1 daytime favourite .
Morgan commented on the show as Brits headed to parks , beaches and green spaces this weekend - despite government advice warning them against it .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged Brits to stay indoors and avoid non-essential contact amid the COVID-19 pandemic .
The health crisis has seen thousands of Brits infected with over 200 deaths - but a group of people in Birmingham brazenly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a yoga class .
People were also seen exercising at popular parks in Worcestershire .
On GMB , Piers fumed today : “ I would lock down the country and arrest them.
” He added : “ If they were told , if you are found doing this then you don ’ t get any healthcare for you or your family , if you develop serious conditions , would they still do it ?
“ If the answer is no , why would you then risk doing that to other people you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you want to put them in harm 's way to potentially kill them with your reckless stupidity ?
” Piers continued : “ The wartime generation had five years of this .
Many millions had to go and fight for their country and go over trenches to face machine guns and tanks .
“ We are being asked to go home and watch telly .
That is the sacrifice you have got to make for your country - and we can ’ t even do that .
“ Because we ’ re the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no ’ and doesn ’ t understand being told what to do .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss any TV and showbiz news - sign up to free alerts
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss any TV and showbiz news - sign up to free alerts
Piers Morgan wants anybody flouting self-isolation advice during the coronavirus pandemic to be ARRESTED.
The controversial Good Morning Britain presenter made the claim during Monday's broadcast of the ITV1 daytime favourite.
Morgan commented on the show as Brits headed to parks, beaches and green spaces this weekend - despite government advice warning them against it.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged Brits to stay indoors and avoid non-essential contact amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The health crisis has seen thousands of Brits infected with over 200 deaths - but a group of people in Birmingham brazenly took to a city park this weekend for a yoga class.
(Image: ITV)
People were also seen exercising at popular parks in Worcestershire.
On GMB, Piers fumed today: “I would lock down the country and arrest them.”
He added: “If they were told, if you are found doing this then you don’t get any healthcare for you or your family, if you develop serious conditions, would they still do it?
“If the answer is no, why would you then risk doing that to other people you don’t know? Why would you want to put them in harm's way to potentially kill them with your reckless stupidity?”
Piers continued: “The wartime generation had five years of this. Many millions had to go and fight for their country and go over trenches to face machine guns and tanks.
“We are being asked to go home and watch telly. That is the sacrifice you have got to make for your country - and we can’t even do that.
“Because we’re the generation who doesn’t understand ‘no’ and doesn’t understand being told what to do.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--The West Ham stadium dispute that could affect Aston Villa

Just in case there isn ’ t enough uncertainty about the remainder of the 2019/2020 season – another variable has been thrown into doubt .
Aston Villa have ten games to save their Premier League status – with the next one scheduled , for now at least , to be at Everton on May 2 .
However , with six matches postponed already – and maybe more to come – the prospect of Villa playing into the summer is a very real one .
And many predict their fate could come down to a final day clash with relegation rivals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the London Stadium .
However , even that might be an issue with the Hammers now facing opposition from UK Athletics for use of the ground beyond the end of June .
The Times are reporting athletics ’ governing body believe they have first call for occasions such as the Anniversary Games which are due to take place on July 4 and 5 .
Nic Coward , UK Athletics chairman , said : “ As far as we ’ re concerned athletics has priority and nobody has spoken to us about changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for West Ham games.
” But the Hammers are adamant they have a clause in their agreement which means the owner , the London Legacy Development Corporation ( LLDC ) , is obliged to put the football club first .
A West Ham statement said : “ The overriding priority principle is an agreement that all of West Ham United ’ s competitive matches shall take precedence over any other activity , event or use of the stadium on the dates that are notified to us by a governing body — in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football season continues beyond May , our fixtures will go ahead as planned in the stadium.
” The LLDC said : “ These are unprecedented circumstances and we will work closely with the club over the coming weeks to manage the issues .
The situation is very fluid so , like many other clubs with summer events programmes , it is too soon to give exact details of future arrangements .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Just in case there isn’t enough uncertainty about the remainder of the 2019/2020 season – another variable has been thrown into doubt.
Aston Villa have ten games to save their Premier League status – with the next one scheduled, for now at least, to be at Everton on May 2.
However, with six matches postponed already – and maybe more to come – the prospect of Villa playing into the summer is a very real one.
And many predict their fate could come down to a final day clash with relegation rivals West Ham – due to take place at the London Stadium.
However, even that might be an issue with the Hammers now facing opposition from UK Athletics for use of the ground beyond the end of June.
The Times are reporting athletics’ governing body believe they have first call for occasions such as the Anniversary Games which are due to take place on July 4 and 5.
Nic Coward, UK Athletics chairman, said: “As far as we’re concerned athletics has priority and nobody has spoken to us about changes in the summer, including any plans for West Ham games.”
(Image: Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images)
But the Hammers are adamant they have a clause in their agreement which means the owner, the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), is obliged to put the football club first.
A West Ham statement said :“The overriding priority principle is an agreement that all of West Ham United’s competitive matches shall take precedence over any other activity, event or use of the stadium on the dates that are notified to us by a governing body — in this case the Premier League. If the football season continues beyond May, our fixtures will go ahead as planned in the stadium.”
The LLDC said: “These are unprecedented circumstances and we will work closely with the club over the coming weeks to manage the issues. The situation is very fluid so, like many other clubs with summer events programmes, it is too soon to give exact details of future arrangements.”


birminghammail--2020-03-23--Piers Morgan goes ballistic at Matt Hancock for putting NHS 'lives at risk'

Piers Morgan has erupted with fury at Matt Hancock during an explosive on-air row on Good Morning Britain today .
The controversial GMB presenter was left livid with the Health Secretary on the ITV1 daytime favourite today .
Piers hit out at Hancock during a segment of the show on Monday , March 23 .
It came amid the coronavius pandemic , with COVID-19 claiming the lives of 200 Brits so far , and infecting thousands .
Deaths have been recorded in Birmingham , Walsall , Wolverhampton and beyond , with patients also dying in Dudley , Warwickshire and Staffordshire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morgan welcomed Mr Hancock to the ITV1 show , with the MP telling the Arsenal fan : `` I 'm not going to go into the tittle tattle that you 're talking about . ''
Piers was left furious , erupting : `` Tittle tattle , really ?
How dare you !
I know you 're finding this irritating or whatever it is that 's making you shake your head . ''
`` Well it 's very hard to talk to you , '' the Health Secretary responded , adding : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that distribution work . ''
Piers claimed Mr Hancock was `` woefully prepared '' , causing the politician to hit back : `` That 's not the case and I think you know it . ''
`` That is the case , '' Piers snapped .
Mr Hancock then said `` No I was n't saying that .
If you allow me to answer the question ... getting the masks , getting the protection to the front line is mission critical . ''
He continued to say that there is `` distribution going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue is that `` there are suddenly many more cases of coronavirus '' .
Piers then said : `` Every day that we are not locking down we are putting the health care workers at risk . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Piers Morgan has erupted with fury at Matt Hancock during an explosive on-air row on Good Morning Britain today.
The controversial GMB presenter was left livid with the Health Secretary on the ITV1 daytime favourite today.
Piers hit out at Hancock during a segment of the show on Monday, March 23.
It came amid the coronavius pandemic, with COVID-19 claiming the lives of 200 Brits so far, and infecting thousands.
Deaths have been recorded in Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton and beyond, with patients also dying in Dudley, Warwickshire and Staffordshire.
During an interview on Monday, Morgan welcomed Mr Hancock to the ITV1 show, with the MP telling the Arsenal fan: "I'm not going to go into the tittle tattle that you're talking about."
Piers was left furious, erupting: "Tittle tattle, really? How dare you! I know you're finding this irritating or whatever it is that's making you shake your head."
"Well it's very hard to talk to you," the Health Secretary responded, adding: "We've brought into the army to help that distribution work."
Piers claimed Mr Hancock was "woefully prepared", causing the politician to hit back: "That's not the case and I think you know it."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"That is the case," Piers snapped.
"The nurses don't feel protected."
Mr Hancock then said "No I wasn't saying that. If you allow me to answer the question... getting the masks, getting the protection to the front line is mission critical."
He continued to say that there is "distribution going out right now" and that the issue is that "there are suddenly many more cases of coronavirus".
Piers then said: "Every day that we are not locking down we are putting the health care workers at risk."
"I share your frustration," Mr Hancock admitted.
"Don't insult my intelligence," Piers fumed.
*Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV


birminghammail--2020-03-23--When Aston Villa will return to training at Bodymoor Heath

Aston Villa plan to return to training on Wednesday , winger Anwar El-Ghazi has confirmed .
Villa ’ s players are currently keeping up with fitness regimes at home after Bodymoor Heath was closed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK .
That decision was taken early last week , before the Premier League confirmed that fixtures are suspended until April 30 following a meeting on Thursday .
Many of Villa ’ s top-flight rivals followed the same course of action in response to the spread of Covid-19 pandemic , which has now infected over 5,500 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Dutch publication SportTeKort over the weekend , El Ghazi said : “ Training has been suspended until next [ this ] Wednesday , then we will start again in small groups .
But for the time being , I ’ m still at home.
” According to reports in the national press , the FA plan to stage the final ten games of the Premier League season during a six week period in June and July .
The six-week schedule would see the campaign come to a close on July 11 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but have a game in hand on their relegation rivals .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Aston Villa plan to return to training on Wednesday, winger Anwar El-Ghazi has confirmed.
Villa’s players are currently keeping up with fitness regimes at home after Bodymoor Heath was closed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK.
That decision was taken early last week, before the Premier League confirmed that fixtures are suspended until April 30 following a meeting on Thursday.
Many of Villa’s top-flight rivals followed the same course of action in response to the spread of Covid-19 pandemic, which has now infected over 5,500 people in the UK.
In an interview with Dutch publication SportTeKort over the weekend, El Ghazi said: “Training has been suspended until next [this] Wednesday, then we will start again in small groups. But for the time being, I’m still at home.”
According to reports in the national press, the FA plan to stage the final ten games of the Premier League season during a six week period in June and July.
The six-week schedule would see the campaign come to a close on July 11.
Villa are currently 19th in the table but have a game in hand on their relegation rivals.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--Changes to bus and train services for key workers in West Midlands

Government advice is that all unnecessary travel should be avoided and people need to stay indoors in a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus .
As a result , bus services across the West Midlands are being reduced .
The reason they are still running is to get key workers to and from hospitals and schools and advice is that they should not be used unless absolutely necessary .
A West Midlands Network spokesman said : `` West Midlands Network is working with all transport operators to provide a safe , clean and functioning public transport service for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national situation . ''
Many changes are being introduced on Wednesday March 25 .
Here 's what you can expect so far .
Check here for further updates Be aware there may be short notice alterations due to staffing levels .
Currently running services as normal however there may be some cancellations on Pensnett services : 2 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 9 , 12 , 12A , 13 , 13A , 14 , 14A , 18 , 19 , 24 , 28 , 126 & X10 .
Starting from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there will be a reduced service on some bus routes .
No bus routes are being removed , but some will be running less often .
• On all routes , times of first buses will be the same or within a few minutes of current times .
• On all routes , there will be no change to the timings of the last bus .
• Sunday services will remain as they are now .
• Any National Express West Midlands all-night bus services will continue to operate .
• Dedicated school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the schools closing .
Follow our live blog here for Midland coronavirus updates Services will be changing on Wednesday 25 March .
Further details will be available soon .
Services will be changing on Wednesday 25 March at the earliest .
Further details will be available soon .
Starting from the first service on Monday 23 March , there will be a reduced service on the following routes : Starting from the first service on Monday 23 March , there will be changes to services 60/61 and 703 in Coventry .
Please contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of essential workers .
Starting from the first service on Monday 30 March , there will be a reduced service on the following routes : Off peak frequency reduced between Leamington and University Of Warwick to every 30 minutes Frequency reduced between Leamington and University Of Warwick to every 30 minutes Frequency reduced to every 30 minutes on Mondays to Saturdays and hourly Sundays The frequency is reduced to hourly on Mondays to Saturdays on the Stratford to Evesham section Frequency reduced Mondays to Saturdays - every 15 minutes Coventry - Nuneaton section @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every 30 minutes Nuneaton - Leicester section Frequency reduced to every 60 minutes Mondays to Saturdays and withdrawn between DIRFT and Rugby Town Centre Starting from the first service on Wednesday 25 March all routes will be operating a Saturday timetable with a slight enhancement .
A spokesman for West Midlands Railway said : `` From Monday March 23 , we will be moving to a reduced timetable to ensure that vital train services can keep running throughout a prolonged coronavirus outbreak .
`` It will remain in place until further notice , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regular review .
People needing to travel on Monday should check their train time from midday on Sunday . ''
Here are the updated timetables - be aware there may be short notice alterations due to staffing levels .
Check here for more details .
In addition , Avanti West Coast is planning to run hourly between Coventry – Birmingham International – Birmingham New Street - Wolverhampton , and CrossCountry will be running hourly between Leamington Spa - Coventry - Birmingham International - Birmingham New Street - Wolverhampton - Stafford - Stoke-on-Trent .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ University – Birmingham New St • Crewe , via Penkridge and via Stoke-on-Trent – hourly As well , CrossCountry Trains is planning to run Birmingham – Stoke-on-Trent , via Stafford – hourly .
Chiltern Railways is planning to run hourly between Leamington Spa – Dorridge – Solihull – Birmingham Moor Street .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Government advice is that all unnecessary travel should be avoided and people need to stay indoors in a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus.
As a result, bus services across the West Midlands are being reduced. The reason they are still running is to get key workers to and from hospitals and schools and advice is that they should not be used unless absolutely necessary.
A West Midlands Network spokesman said: "West Midlands Network is working with all transport operators to provide a safe, clean and functioning public transport service for those that need it most during the current national situation."
Many changes are being introduced on Wednesday March 25. Here's what you can expect so far. Check here for further updates Be aware there may be short notice alterations due to staffing levels.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
West Midlands Bus
National Express West Midlands and Coventry
Currently running services as normal however there may be some cancellations on Pensnett services: 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 12, 12A, 13, 13A, 14, 14A, 18, 19, 24, 28, 126 & X10.
Starting from the first service on Wednesday 25 March, there will be a reduced service on some bus routes. No bus routes are being removed, but some will be running less often.
On all routes, times of first buses will be the same or within a few minutes of current times.
On all routes, there will be no change to the timings of the last bus.
Sunday services will remain as they are now.
Any National Express West Midlands all-night bus services will continue to operate.
Dedicated school routes will not be running due to the schools closing.
Follow our live blog here for Midland coronavirus updates
Diamond Buses
Currently operating a normal service
Services will be changing on Wednesday 25 March . Further details will be available soon.
Johnsons
Currently operating a normal service
Services will be changing on Wednesday 25 March at the earliest. Further details will be available soon.
Arriva
Currently operating a normal service.
Starting from the first service on Monday 23 March , there will be a reduced service on the following routes:
Service 1 (Walsall) – No service
Service 2 (Walsall) – 30 min freq
Service 3/3a – No service
Service 9 – Saturday service
Service 70 – 60 min freq
Service 74/8/9 (Coventry) – Saturday service
Service 110 – 30 min freq
Travel De Courcey
Currently operating a normal service.
Starting from the first service on Monday 23 March , there will be changes to services 60/61 and 703 in Coventry.
Please contact the operator regarding school services for children of essential workers.
Thandi Coaches
Currently operating a normal service.
Stagecoach
Currently operating a normal service.
Starting from the first service on Monday 30 March , there will be a reduced service on the following routes:
Service U1 Warwick Gates - Leamington - University Of Warwick
Off peak frequency reduced between Leamington and University Of Warwick to every 30 minutes
Service U2 - Leamington - University of Warwick
Service withdrawn
Service U12 University Of Warwick - Coventry
Frequency reduced between Leamington and University Of Warwick to every 30 minutes
Service X17 - Coventry - Kenilworth - Leamington - Warwick
Frequency reduced to every 30 minutes on Mondays to Saturdays and hourly Sundays
Service X18 - Coventry - Leamington - Warwick - Stratford - Evesham
The frequency is reduced to hourly on Mondays to Saturdays on the Stratford to Evesham section
Service 48 Coventry - Nuneaton - Leicester / Atherstone
Frequency reduced Mondays to Saturdays - every 15 minutes Coventry - Nuneaton section every 30 minutes Nuneaton to Atherstone section every 30 minutes Nuneaton - Leicester section
Service 55 Coventry - Bedworth - Nuneaton
Frequency reduced to hourly Mondays to Saturdays
Service 56 Coventry - Bedworth - Bulkington - Nuneaton
Frequency reduced to hourly Mondays to Saturdays
Service 86 Coventry - Long Lawford - Rugby - DIRFT
Frequency reduced to every 60 minutes Mondays to Saturdays and withdrawn between DIRFT and Rugby Town Centre
Landflight
Currently operating a normal service
Starting from the first service on Wednesday 25 March all routes will be operating a Saturday timetable with a slight enhancement.
Banga Buses
Currently operating a normal service
Claribel Coaches
Currently operating a normal service
Kevs Cars & Coaches
Currently operating a normal service
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Changes to train services
A spokesman for West Midlands Railway said: "From Monday March 23, we will be moving to a reduced timetable to ensure that vital train services can keep running throughout a prolonged coronavirus outbreak.
"It will remain in place until further notice, though service levels will be kept under regular review. People needing to travel on Monday should check their train time from midday on Sunday."
Here are the updated timetables - be aware there may be short notice alterations due to staffing levels. Check here for more details.
Birmingham New Street lines
Coventry – Birmingham New Street via Birmingham International
Coventry, Birmingham International - 4 trains per hour
Northampton, Rugby, Coventry, Birmingham International – 3 trains per hour
Tile Hill, Marston Green – 2 trains per hour
Canley, Berkswell, Hampton-in-Arden, Lea Hall, Stechford, Adderley Park – hourly
In addition, Avanti West Coast is planning to run hourly between Coventry – Birmingham International – Birmingham New Street - Wolverhampton, and CrossCountry will be running hourly between Leamington Spa - Coventry - Birmingham International - Birmingham New Street - Wolverhampton - Stafford - Stoke-on-Trent.
Cross City
Lichfield Trent Valley – Redditch, via Birmingham – 2 trains per hour
Birmingham – Longbridge, via Selly Oak – 4 trains per hour
Birmingham – Redditch – 2 trains per hour
Birmingham – Bromsgrove – 2 trains per hour
CrossCountry is planning to run hourly between University – Birmingham New St
The Chase Line
Birmingham – Tame Bridge Parkway – Walsall - 2 trains per hour
Birmingham – Walsall, all stations – hourly
Birmingham – Rugeley – hourly
Wolverhampton - Birmingham New Street
Wolverhampton – Birmingham – 5 trains per hour
Wolverhampton – Birmingham, all stations – hourly
Sandwell & Dudley – Wolverhampton / Birmingham – 2 trains per hour
Smethwick Galton Bridge – Wolverhampton / Birmingham – 3 trains per hour
Birmingham New Street - Stafford / Crewe
Stafford – 3 trains per hour
Crewe, via Penkridge and via Stoke-on-Trent – hourly
Liverpool, via Crewe – hourly
As well, CrossCountry Trains is planning to run Birmingham – Stoke-on-Trent, via Stafford – hourly.
Hereford / Shrewsbury lines
Birmingham New Street – Hereford via Worcester / Great Malvern – hourly
Birmingham Snow Hill – Worcester – hourly
Shrewsbury – Birmingham – hourly
Birmingham Snow Hill lines
Birmingham Snow Hill – Kidderminster, via Stourbridge Junction – 2 trains per hour
Birmingham Snow Hill – Worcester, via Droitwich Spa – hourly
Dorridge – Birmingham Snow Hill – hourly*
Stratford-upon-Avon – Birmingham Snow Hill, via Whitlocks End – hourly*
*extra trains Monday-Friday during peak times
Chiltern Railways is planning to run hourly between Leamington Spa – Dorridge – Solihull – Birmingham Moor Street.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--'Extreme' - Lee Camp adamant about the rest of Blues' season

The uncertainty surrounding the rest of Birmingham City ’ s season continues to reign with all football off until at least the end of April .
The prospect of the proposed return on April 30 looks remote with the coronavirus pandemic continuing to wreak havoc with every aspect of daily life .
Nevertheless the sport ’ s authorities are working through a number of possible options with a unanimity among clubs they want the season finished .
And Blues ’ goalkeeper Lee Camp thinks that ’ s the only way to ensure the 2019/2020 campaign reaches a fair conclusion .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has to finish , if it gets delayed six weeks then we play through to when it can be done , ” Camp told the club podcast Blues Talk .
“ You ca n't start crowning people champions and relegating people and null and voiding leagues .
It would take away all the integrity of it .
“ We have got to finish it at some point and somehow haven ’ t we ?
” Camp was asked whether behind-closed-doors matches were a viable option .
“ I think it probably will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because it ’ s almost like going from 0-60 isn ’ t it .
`` From ‘ No mass gatherings ’ to putting 25,000 people in St Andrew ’ s it ’ s an extreme .
“ The most important thing is – the season gets finished with its integrity held up – but ultimately it ’ s people ’ s health and wellbeing that ’ s the most important thing .
“ It ’ s the people who are struggling , perhaps on their own or are elderly who get taken care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s thinking and then sport and everything came resume when it needs to resume .
“ There are other things bigger than football and other sports .
“ Finishing behind closed doors probably looks like the way it will go.
” Camp had enjoyed a superb return to the team following his benching midway through the campaign .
He has played 77 times for Blues since joining on a free transfer from Cardiff in the troubled summer of 2018 .
The 35-year-old is one of a handful of Blues players left in limbo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his current contract is up on June 30 – another consideration if football is played into July .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
The uncertainty surrounding the rest of Birmingham City’s season continues to reign with all football off until at least the end of April.
The prospect of the proposed return on April 30 looks remote with the coronavirus pandemic continuing to wreak havoc with every aspect of daily life.
Nevertheless the sport’s authorities are working through a number of possible options with a unanimity among clubs they want the season finished.
And Blues ’ goalkeeper Lee Camp thinks that’s the only way to ensure the 2019/2020 campaign reaches a fair conclusion.
“For the integrity of the competitions it has to finish, if it gets delayed six weeks then we play through to when it can be done,” Camp told the club podcast Blues Talk.
“You can't start crowning people champions and relegating people and null and voiding leagues. It would take away all the integrity of it.
“We have got to finish it at some point and somehow haven’t we?”
Camp was asked whether behind-closed-doors matches were a viable option.
“I think it probably will, I think they will have to because it’s almost like going from 0-60 isn’t it.
"From ‘No mass gatherings’ to putting 25,000 people in St Andrew’s it’s an extreme.
“The most important thing is – the season gets finished with its integrity held up – but ultimately it’s people’s health and wellbeing that’s the most important thing.
“It’s the people who are struggling, perhaps on their own or are elderly who get taken care of and are foremost in everyone’s thinking and then sport and everything came resume when it needs to resume.
“There are other things bigger than football and other sports.
“Finishing behind closed doors probably looks like the way it will go.”
(Image: TIM EASTHOPE/BIRMINGHAM MAIL)
Camp had enjoyed a superb return to the team following his benching midway through the campaign.
He has played 77 times for Blues since joining on a free transfer from Cardiff in the troubled summer of 2018.
The 35-year-old is one of a handful of Blues players left in limbo by the suspension of the season because his current contract is up on June 30 – another consideration if football is played into July.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--UK could face total coronavirus 'lockdown' by the end of today

The Prime Minister is attempting to race sweeping new laws on coronavirus through the Commons in a day , as the UK faces the prospect of a total lockdown in the next 24 hours , according to a Sky News report .
MPS are debating the government ’ s Coronavirus Bill in the Commons today so that it can go to the House of Lords and become law by the end of the week .
This comes after many people ignored Boris Johnson ’ s appeals to stay indoors by going out in swaths to visit places like Snowdonia on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest Downing Street news conference , Mr Johnson said further measures would be considered in the next 24 hours to prevent the spread of coronavirus if people fail to stay two metres apart .
Mr Johnson said there was no ban on going outdoors for fresh air - yet - as he told Brits to stay home as much as possible .
But the PM warned in yesterday 's press conference the Government is ready to impose tougher restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus if people do not follow the guidance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apart .
He warned : `` I do n't think you need to use your imagination very much to see where we might have to go , and we will think about this very very actively in the next 24 hours . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News ’ Kay Burley @ Breakfast this morning : “ We will enforce and bring in further strong measures if we need to - but I ’ d much rather people follow the rules themselves , it would be much more straight forward .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in terms of people ’ s interactions than we will.
” Ministers are examining the curfews and restrictions imposed in Europe as a method of controlling the spread of coronavirus , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said .
He said the `` unpleasant and very difficult times '' meant that it was possible the authorities , including the police , could be required to order people to follow the rules on social distancing .
And he said that `` nothing is off the table '' if further curbs on people 's freedoms were required @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson appeared shocked at the prospect of the police being brought in to enforce coronavirus restrictions when asked about it at a press conference on Sunday .
But Mr Hancock said officers had already been given the powers to force the closure of bars and restaurants and indicated that other restrictions would be considered .
The Health Secretary condemned the `` very selfish '' behaviour of people who were ignoring social-distancing rules .
Asked whether tighter controls would be imposed , he told BBC Radio 4 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course , monitoring how much people are following those rules . ''
And he added : `` We will act if we need to .
`` As Health Secretary it is my job to protect life and the way that we protect life from a virus like this is to stop its spread and the way that you stop its spread is by people not interacting with others . ''
Measures imposed across Europe have included curfews or preventing groups of more than two people gathering in public .
`` Nothing is off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Of course we are looking at what other European countries are doing .
`` There are a series of different measures that other countries have taken , now they are further down the curve - they have higher numbers of cases than we do here - but that means that we can act sooner and earlier in this epidemic . ''
Mr Hancock said the Government would be prepared to use the authorities to tell people what to do .
`` Yes , and in fact on Saturday I signed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be able to shut bars and restaurants and pubs if they are still open .
`` This is n't the sort of thing I ever wanted to do but it 's the sort of thing that , as a nation , we have got to be prepared to see in order to stop this virus .
`` These are unpleasant and very difficult times .
`` I keep front of mind the 1.4 million people who work in the NHS because they are going into hospitals , into the NHS , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for people who have coronavirus - and we have got to keep them safe . ''
Mr Johnson has faced criticism for his approach to the crisis and his reluctance to impose draconian lockdown measures of the type seen in other countries .
But Mr Hancock said : `` If you had seen how hard the Prime Minister is working , like I have - every day from first thing in the morning to last thing at night - we are doing everything we possibly can to keep people safe . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get all the latest politics news straight to your inbox with our bi-weekly newsletter
The Prime Minister is attempting to race sweeping new laws on coronavirus through the Commons in a day, as the UK faces the prospect of a total lockdown in the next 24 hours, according to a Sky News report.
MPS are debating the government’s Coronavirus Bill in the Commons today so that it can go to the House of Lords and become law by the end of the week.
This comes after many people ignored Boris Johnson’s appeals to stay indoors by going out in swaths to visit places like Snowdonia on Mother’s Day.
At his latest Downing Street news conference, Mr Johnson said further measures would be considered in the next 24 hours to prevent the spread of coronavirus if people fail to stay two metres apart.
Mr Johnson said there was no ban on going outdoors for fresh air - yet - as he told Brits to stay home as much as possible.
But the PM warned in yesterday's press conference the Government is ready to impose tougher restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus if people do not follow the guidance on social distancing and stay two metres apart.
He warned: "I don't think you need to use your imagination very much to see where we might have to go, and we will think about this very very actively in the next 24 hours."
(Image: Anita Maric / SWNS)
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News’ Kay Burley@Breakfast this morning: “We will enforce and bring in further strong measures if we need to - but I’d much rather people follow the rules themselves, it would be much more straight forward.
“If we need to go further in terms of people’s interactions than we will.”
(Image: Anita Maric / SWNS)
Ministers are examining the curfews and restrictions imposed in Europe as a method of controlling the spread of coronavirus, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said.
He said the "unpleasant and very difficult times" meant that it was possible the authorities, including the police, could be required to order people to follow the rules on social distancing.
And he said that "nothing is off the table" if further curbs on people's freedoms were required to slow the progress of Covid-19 through the UK.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Prime Minister Boris Johnson appeared shocked at the prospect of the police being brought in to enforce coronavirus restrictions when asked about it at a press conference on Sunday.
But Mr Hancock said officers had already been given the powers to force the closure of bars and restaurants and indicated that other restrictions would be considered.
The Health Secretary condemned the "very selfish" behaviour of people who were ignoring social-distancing rules.
Asked whether tighter controls would be imposed, he told BBC Radio 4's Today: "We are, of course, monitoring how much people are following those rules."
(Image: Anita Maric / SWNS)
And he added: "We will act if we need to.
"As Health Secretary it is my job to protect life and the way that we protect life from a virus like this is to stop its spread and the way that you stop its spread is by people not interacting with others."
Measures imposed across Europe have included curfews or preventing groups of more than two people gathering in public.
"Nothing is off the table," Mr Hancock said.
"Of course we are looking at what other European countries are doing.
"There are a series of different measures that other countries have taken, now they are further down the curve - they have higher numbers of cases than we do here - but that means that we can act sooner and earlier in this epidemic."
Mr Hancock said the Government would be prepared to use the authorities to tell people what to do.
"Yes, and in fact on Saturday I signed the order to give the police the power to be able to shut bars and restaurants and pubs if they are still open.
"This isn't the sort of thing I ever wanted to do but it's the sort of thing that, as a nation, we have got to be prepared to see in order to stop this virus.
"These are unpleasant and very difficult times.
"I keep front of mind the 1.4 million people who work in the NHS because they are going into hospitals, into the NHS, to look after people - including to care for people who have coronavirus - and we have got to keep them safe."
Mr Johnson has faced criticism for his approach to the crisis and his reluctance to impose draconian lockdown measures of the type seen in other countries.
But Mr Hancock said: "If you had seen how hard the Prime Minister is working, like I have - every day from first thing in the morning to last thing at night - we are doing everything we possibly can to keep people safe."


birminghammail--2020-03-23--What away fans really think of Aston Villa and Villa Park

Everyone loves an away day , right ?
There 's something about travelling away from home , with a couple of thousand like-minded fans who also love being packed into an away end and pride themselves on out-singing the home supporters .
At the home of Aston Villa , Villa Park , away fans are tucked into a corner of the stadium adjacent to where the 18-yard-box starts in the Doug Ellis Stand , plenty close enough to the ardant home support in the North Stand for a bit of good-natured ( or not ) back-and-forth .
That particular section @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support of a Premier League standard now Dean Smith 's side are back in the big time .
So what do they make of it after six games in B6 ?
We have had a look at Football Ground Guide to see what visiting fans really think .
These views are written by away fans and cover everything from parking to the quality of the pies .
Here are their verdicts ...
I had n't been to Villa Park since 1986 when I saw Sheffield Wednesday lose 2-1 to Everton in the FA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a long-overdue revisit .
Villa Park is just one of those iconic grounds and I just wished the magnificent Trinity Road Stand could have been saved in some way .
Although I had been to Villa Park three times previously it 's always a good ground to visit with a decent atmosphere .
It was also my first game of the season as well as our first away game .
I knew what to expect and our seats in the lower tier were excellent .
The game was a complete sell-out so the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park always has the look and feel of a proper old school ground .
A great day out .
Great journeys to and from the ground , free parking , a lovely summer 's day and a 2-1 victory away from home at a traditional footy ground with a top atmosphere .
What 's not to like ?
Just hope we are both in the Prem again next season ... ..
It is a big traditional ground .
The away fans are located on the side near one end .
This area has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close to the pitch .
The first time I have been there and Villa are still one of the biggest names in football .
I was expecting a big crowd and a good atmosphere .
We bossed the game until we went down to ten men after half an hour .
At 1 - 0 up though we still looked like getting at least a point and kept on creating chances .
They scored and won the game 2 - 1 with the last action of the game .
I 'm surprised Grealish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he needed to walk past a few of our players without falling over !
!
!
Facilities were reasonable but not necessarily recommendable .
Villa Park is one of the best grounds in the country , which feels steeped in tradition and history .
We were in the lower tier of the away end , fairly close to the halfway line and , despite only being six rows from the front , we had a very good view of the game .
The lower tier concourse is relatively spacious but , despite going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beer before the half time whistle , I did not manage to get served in the 15 minute interval even with only moderately busy queues .
My 5th visit to Villa Park and the place never disappoints .
We sat in the lower tier this season and with the sun beaming down , it was very warm .
Maybe upper tier next season .
I found the '' Villa Chippy '' around three minutes walk away from Villa Park .
Very friendly staff willing to have a chat about the game , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to man .
Definitely worth a try if want a quick bit of food before the game .
The home fans were home fans !
Obviously , there is a rivalry between these two big teams and it showed between the banterous chants , but nothing violent .
`` A decent day out , normally better it seems with a better away following and access to The Witton Arms pub .
`` The day overall was decent , but made great by the late equaliser we scored ! ''
`` In one word @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlike the modern bowl like stadiums that are popping up over the country now days .
The Holte End is very unique in design and if you have enough time take a walk around the ground , you will not regret it .
`` Inside the ground is huge with the Holte End to our left and the North stand to our right .
The Main Stand is opposite with the tunnel and team dugouts on this side .
Between the Main Stand and the Holte End is where the executive boxes are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I would recommend a visit to Villa Park for any football fan who get the chance to go to and I will definitely go again .
Just hope that the atmosphere is better next time . ''
`` On my approach to the ground the first thing that came into view was the Holte End Stand at Villa Park which looked huge and somehow reminded me of a Shopping Mall that you see in many cities .
Before I entered the Doug Ellis Stand , which is adjacent to the Holte @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frisked very thoroughly I thought by the Stewards .
`` I thought the seating inside the ground was very adequate with plenty of leg room and a good view of the pitch .
Looking around the ground and taking it all in it was really impressive .
`` The attendance tonight of almost 26,000 probably did n't do the ground any justice as it was only half full , and apparently the lowest gate of the season here at Villa Park . ''
Kieran B , an Ipswich Town fan who visited on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ground with four tall stands each side , very impressive and with it mingling with the old Victorian streets it gives a good feel to the place unlike these modern stadiums you find on retail parks next to TGI Fridays or KFC .
`` Stewards were fine but were extremely overkill .
You would have thought we were Birmingham City with the amount that were there .
I had a Chicken Balti pie , which was very nice .
However with a near sold out lower tier the facilities were cramped . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Witton Station we made the short walk to the ground passing the Witton Arms that again seemed to have noisy Preston fans in residence .
Inside the Villa Park the away fans were located in the Doug Ellis Stand with Preston fans located in both the top and bottom tiers .
We were in the bottom tier but even from row three we had a good view of the pitch .
`` The ground itself is impressive and has the feeling of a proper football ground that has seen a lot of history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ large on all four sides have been modernised over the years becoming all seater and with a decent crowd in it was quite an impressive sight .
`` Villa Park is probably one of my favourite grounds and the way thing are going I may well be visiting again next season . ''
`` I thought Villa Park looked bigger than I had imagined and also quite dated , with some of the stand looking not like a football ground , and but more like a office block .
The away end was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one side stand .
`` I thought the facilities were poor and outdated for a recently relegated Premier League team , the concourse was extremely cramped in the upper tier and there was no alcohol on offer .
`` Hopefully we both can get promoted as neither club deserves to be in the Championship but I ca n't wait to visit Villa Park again in the future . ''
Alex Honcoop , a neutral fan who also attended the match against Leeds on 29/12/16 , wrote : '' The home fans were very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I prefer 'Old school ' stadiums , I 've always been a massive fan of Villa Park and it did n't disappoint .
The traditional outside design of the Holte End really was brilliant .
The other sides were quite nice in particular the Trinity Road Stand . ''
`` We made our way to our seats in the lower section of the Doug Ellis Stand .
The inside of the ground certainly did n't disappoint , it 's huge !
The Holte End was particularly impressive .
`` I 've found that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person than on television , but Villa Park did n't have this effect .
The ground had a real sense of character to it opposed to the generic bowl designs which is becoming more popular these days . ''

Everyone loves an away day, right?
There's something about travelling away from home, with a couple of thousand like-minded fans who also love being packed into an away end and pride themselves on out-singing the home supporters.
At the home of Aston Villa, Villa Park, away fans are tucked into a corner of the stadium adjacent to where the 18-yard-box starts in the Doug Ellis Stand, plenty close enough to the ardent home support in the North Stand for a bit of good-natured (or not) back-and-forth.
We have had a look at Football Ground Guide to see what visiting fans really think.
These views are written by away fans and cover everything from parking to the quality of the pies.
Here are their verdicts...
Joe (Brighton)
Having visited Villa Park many years ago for an FA cup tie, I couldn't wait to visit again.
I'd travelled from Worcestershire and changed at Worcestershire Parkway station. The train into Birmingham was packed but we arrived into New Street at 12:45pm.
A fantastic stadium, full of character. The upper tier concourse is very narrow and there is no alcohol served to away fans.
Train back to Worcestershire was fine and got back by about 8pm after staying in Birmingham for bit after the game.
Good day out ruined by 90 minutes of football!
Josh (Wolves)
Villa Park is starting to look a bit dated. Hadn't noticed this before but the turnstiles are very old. In the ground the view was good from the lower tier. one thing to note the sun made the first half very difficult to see.
For a derby the atmosphere was poor first half but the game was very poor. Half time an attempt to go to the toilet proved to be hard work as the queues were massive! Second half the game got worse from a wolves perspective with us quickly being 2-0. Then the last ten minutes all hell broke out and a 95th minute winner meant Wolves ended up 3-2 victors. Getting out was okay but the walk back to witton station was a little hairy with bits of trouble flaring up.
Simon M (Newcastle United)
Newcastle fans in fine voice as per usual. Villa fans quiet as mice until they scored, then suddenly the quiet friendly fans from outside wanted to give it some, obviously with barriers and stewards to hold the back.
Newcastle should have been 2.0 up before Villa scored, and it was a bicycle kick from Danny Ings not an overhead kick as spouted by the media sycophants, a poorly defended one at that, but that seems to be Newcastle this season. Went onto lose 2.0 but the football didn't ruin a good day out
John Hague (Leicester City)
I hadn't been to Villa Park since 1986 when I saw Sheffield Wednesday lose 2-1 to Everton in the FA Cup Semi final, so this was a long-overdue revisit. Villa Park is just one of those iconic grounds and I just wished the magnificent Trinity Road Stand could have been saved in some way.
Bournemouth fan Paul Sheppard:
Although I had been to Villa Park three times previously it's always a good ground to visit with a decent atmosphere. It was also my first game of the season as well as our first away game.
I knew what to expect and our seats in the lower tier were excellent. The game was a complete sell-out so the ground was nice and full. Villa Park always has the look and feel of a proper old school ground.
A great day out. Great journeys to and from the ground, free parking, a lovely summer's day and a 2-1 victory away from home at a traditional footy ground with a top atmosphere. What's not to like? Just hope we are both in the Prem again next season.....
Andrew Walker, Brighton fan:
It is a big traditional ground. The away fans are located on the side near one end. This area has a good view and you are fairly close to the pitch.
The first time I have been there and Villa are still one of the biggest names in football. I was expecting a big crowd and a good atmosphere.
We bossed the game until we went down to ten men after half an hour. At 1 - 0 up though we still looked like getting at least a point and kept on creating chances. They scored and won the game 2 - 1 with the last action of the game. I'm surprised Grealish made it off the pitch......he needed to walk past a few of our players without falling over!!! Facilities were reasonable but not necessarily recommendable.
Tim Scales, Norwich City fan:
Villa Park is one of the best grounds in the country, which feels steeped in tradition and history. We were in the lower tier of the away end, fairly close to the halfway line and, despite only being six rows from the front, we had a very good view of the game.
The lower tier concourse is relatively spacious but, despite going down to the bar to get a beer before the half time whistle, I did not manage to get served in the 15 minute interval even with only moderately busy queues.
Mark Wardell, Millwall, 22/4/19
My 5th visit to Villa Park and the place never disappoints. We sat in the lower tier this season and with the sun beaming down, it was very warm. Maybe upper tier next season.
Matt, Nottingham Forest 28/11/18
I found the"Villa Chippy" around three minutes walk away from Villa Park.
Very friendly staff willing to have a chat about the game, and had possibly the best battered sausage known to man.
Definitely worth a try if want a quick bit of food before the game. The home fans were home fans! Obviously, there is a rivalry between these two big teams and it showed between the banterous chants, but nothing violent.
Adam Humphries is a Reading fan, he writes:
"A decent day out, normally better it seems with a better away following and access to The Witton Arms pub.
"The day overall was decent, but made great by the late equaliser we scored!"
(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)
James Busby, a Reading fan who visited on 15/4/17, wrote:
"In one word Villa Park is beautiful and oozes character unlike the modern bowl like stadiums that are popping up over the country now days. The Holte End is very unique in design and if you have enough time take a walk around the ground, you will not regret it.
"Inside the ground is huge with the Holte End to our left and the North stand to our right. The Main Stand is opposite with the tunnel and team dugouts on this side. Between the Main Stand and the Holte End is where the executive boxes are and looks like a mini apartment block.
"I would recommend a visit to Villa Park for any football fan who get the chance to go to and I will definitely go again. Just hope that the atmosphere is better next time."
Tom Bellamy, a Barnsley fan who visited on 14/2/17, wrote:
"On my approach to the ground the first thing that came into view was the Holte End Stand at Villa Park which looked huge and somehow reminded me of a Shopping Mall that you see in many cities. Before I entered the Doug Ellis Stand, which is adjacent to the Holte End Stand, I was searched and frisked very thoroughly I thought by the Stewards.
"I thought the seating inside the ground was very adequate with plenty of leg room and a good view of the pitch. Looking around the ground and taking it all in it was really impressive.
"The attendance tonight of almost 26,000 probably didn't do the ground any justice as it was only half full, and apparently the lowest gate of the season here at Villa Park."
Kieran B, an Ipswich Town fan who visited on 11/2/17, wrote:
"A huge ground with four tall stands each side, very impressive and with it mingling with the old Victorian streets it gives a good feel to the place unlike these modern stadiums you find on retail parks next to TGI Fridays or KFC.
"Stewards were fine but were extremely overkill. You would have thought we were Birmingham City with the amount that were there. I had a Chicken Balti pie, which was very nice. However with a near sold out lower tier the facilities were cramped."
Bob Davis, a Preston North End fan who visited on 21/1/17, wrote:
"After getting the local train to Witton Station we made the short walk to the ground passing the Witton Arms that again seemed to have noisy Preston fans in residence. Inside the Villa Park the away fans were located in the Doug Ellis Stand with Preston fans located in both the top and bottom tiers. We were in the bottom tier but even from row three we had a good view of the pitch.
"The ground itself is impressive and has the feeling of a proper football ground that has seen a lot of history in its day. The stands are large on all four sides have been modernised over the years becoming all seater and with a decent crowd in it was quite an impressive sight.
"Villa Park is probably one of my favourite grounds and the way thing are going I may well be visiting again next season."
Cameron, a Leeds United fan who visited on 29/12/16, wrote:
"I thought Villa Park looked bigger than I had imagined and also quite dated, with some of the stand looking not like a football ground, and but more like a office block. The away end was small and compact in the corner of one side stand.
"I thought the facilities were poor and outdated for a recently relegated Premier League team, the concourse was extremely cramped in the upper tier and there was no alcohol on offer.
"Hopefully we both can get promoted as neither club deserves to be in the Championship but I can't wait to visit Villa Park again in the future."
Alex Honcoop, a neutral fan who also attended the match against Leeds on 29/12/16, wrote:
"The home fans were very friendly outside the stadium.
"As I prefer 'Old school' stadiums, I've always been a massive fan of Villa Park and it didn't disappoint. The traditional outside design of the Holte End really was brilliant. The other sides were quite nice in particular the Trinity Road Stand."
"We made our way to our seats in the lower section of the Doug Ellis Stand. The inside of the ground certainly didn't disappoint, it's huge! The Holte End was particularly impressive.
"I've found that some grounds look a lot smaller in person than on television, but Villa Park didn't have this effect. The ground had a real sense of character to it as opposed to the generic bowl designs which is becoming more popular these days."
What is your favourite away day? Let us know in the comments below!


birminghammail--2020-03-23--The brilliant reason rainbows are being placed in windows during coronavirus

Children are painting rainbows and posting them in their windows to bring smiles to passers-by during the coronavirus outbreak .
The trend has been seen across the world , but became hugely popular in the UK after schools were shut last week .
In Oldham , Manchester , Vicky Corbley 's children posted a rainbow in her kitchen window along with the messages `` do n't worry '' and `` we 'll get through '' - along with another message thanking delivery drivers and postal workers .
`` I think we all need all the positivity we can get right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PA news agency .
`` Everywhere we look on social media , it 's full of people panicking , worrying , scared .
`` So doing something like this hopefully will lift people 's spirits , even if it 's just a smile ... plus it 's keeping kids busy , too ! ''
Danielle Oliver , 31 , from Sunderland , agreed that the idea could be a welcome activity for youngsters during `` a very challenging and difficult time for everyone '' .
She said : `` It not only provides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with an engaging activity , but also helps to encourage the children to be out exploring their local community safely .
`` The neighbours have already been interested and it has been lovely to see smiles on people 's faces as they walk past the house . ''
Karen Cumming , 34 , from Dunblane , has helped get her kids involved by putting a rainbow in her son 's bedroom window , and said she has seen another nearby already .
`` I have two kids , one at eight years old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Cumming said .
`` Neither understand what is happening in the world right now .
My older son likes his school routine , which has obviously had to stop .
`` I think it 's a scary unknown time , but the kids do not need the worry that the adults and parents are having to deal with right now . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Children are painting rainbows and posting them in their windows to bring smiles to passers-by during the coronavirus outbreak.
The trend has been seen across the world, but became hugely popular in the UK after schools were shut last week.
In Oldham, Manchester, Vicky Corbley's children posted a rainbow in her kitchen window along with the messages "don't worry" and "we'll get through" - along with another message thanking delivery drivers and postal workers.
"I think we all need all the positivity we can get right now," the 33-year-old told the PA news agency.
"Everywhere we look on social media, it's full of people panicking, worrying, scared.
"So doing something like this hopefully will lift people's spirits, even if it's just a smile... plus it's keeping kids busy, too!"
Danielle Oliver, 31, from Sunderland, agreed that the idea could be a welcome activity for youngsters during "a very challenging and difficult time for everyone".
She said: "It not only provides young children who are out of school with an engaging activity, but also helps to encourage the children to be out exploring their local community safely.
"The neighbours have already been interested and it has been lovely to see smiles on people's faces as they walk past the house."
Karen Cumming, 34, from Dunblane, has helped get her kids involved by putting a rainbow in her son's bedroom window, and said she has seen another nearby already.
"I have two kids, one at eight years old with disabilities and a seven-month-old," Ms Cumming said.
"Neither understand what is happening in the world right now. My older son likes his school routine, which has obviously had to stop.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"I think it's a scary unknown time, but the kids do not need the worry that the adults and parents are having to deal with right now."


birminghammail--2020-03-23--Mum creates £20 busy board to keep moaning tot occupied in self-isolation

As parents all over the country brace themselves for months in self-isolation with kids who love to shout “ I ’ m so bored !
” , take inspiration from this creative mum .
Taylor Cowin , 23 , a stay-at-home mum from Edinburgh , decided to create the board for her son Josh , 19 months .
Taylor told money-saving community LatestDeals.co.uk : `` I first came up with the idea a few weeks before Christmas when I was trying to think of what I could get my little boy for Christmas .
`` He had so many toys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something a bit more special and unique so I started to look at busy boards online .
`` They were all great but prices started at around £60 and even went into the hundreds , and they were all quite small compared to what I was looking for !
`` I didn ’ t really expect to make anything brilliant but I just thought 'why not give it a go myself and see how it goes !
’ '' I just started to gather little things from the cupboards like switches , door @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that I already had and could potentially use .
`` Then I added my little boy 's xylophone because he loves it .
`` I also thought about how he loves cars and buses and knew it would be a good idea to use a car or bus shape .
Then I just searched for lots of random things on ebay to see what came up and if anything could be used .
`` I used spare wood that my mum and dad already had in their garden .
I only really had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the tie , zip and button boards .
It cost me about £20 for those things.
” Once Taylor decided on the look of the busy board , she got started with the DIY process .
`` I decided on the bus shape and drew it onto the wood , '' she continues .
`` My dad then cut the shape because I really don ’ t trust myself with power tools !
” She explains : `` Then I painted it red and I did two or three coats of paint .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it was in my mum and dad 's shed and the weather was cold but once it was dry we took it into the house and started to attach the lights and everything else onto it .
`` I used cable ties to attach everything onto it so that there wouldn ’ t be the possibility of any nails falling off .
`` I felt that this would be a safer option for my little boy .
`` It took about a week or so to be completely finished and we then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bedroom wall .
`` It ’ s not perfect but he loves it !
” Taylor says she is over the moon with how the busy board turned out , and says it ’ s a lot less complicated to make than it looks .
`` I am very pleased with how it turned out because I really wasn ’ t expecting it to actually be any good !
” she says .
`` I think it is the perfect thing to have at home because it really does keep my little boy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this when you do need to spend more time at home .
`` Not only that but it ’ s also a brilliant time for people to take on these project and try to make things themselves because it really does help with boredom !
“ The tip I would give to anybody who would like to do something similar is that even if you don ’ t think you ’ re that good at art or making things you should still give it a try !
`` I ’ ve never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but I think it still turned out quite well and I think most people could do it if they tried .
`` Also , check your cupboards for random things lying around that you already have but haven ’ t been using .
I saved myself a lot of money doing that !
Tom Church , co-founder of LatestDeals.co.uk , comments : “ All of us are faced with the prospect of spending months at home due to the spread of coronavirus , and Netflix will go only go so far when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ running out of ideas to entertain their kids will love Taylor ’ s ingenious busy board - and best of all , I can ’ t believe it cost just £20 !
“ It ’ s a fantastic idea to search your cupboards for what you already have when doing DIY at home - it will save you spending lots on new supplies , and is better for the environment too .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Join the Secret Elves to get first access to our exclusive reviews of the must-have products this year
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Join the Secret Elves to get first access to our exclusive reviews of the must-have products this year
As parents all over the country brace themselves for months in self-isolation with kids who love to shout “I’m so bored!”, take inspiration from this creative mum.
Taylor Cowin, 23, a stay-at-home mum from Edinburgh, decided to create the board for her son Josh, 19 months.
Taylor told money-saving community LatestDeals.co.uk : "I first came up with the idea a few weeks before Christmas when I was trying to think of what I could get my little boy for Christmas.
"He had so many toys and I really wanted him to have something a bit more special and unique so I started to look at busy boards online.
"They were all great but prices started at around £60 and even went into the hundreds, and they were all quite small compared to what I was looking for!
"I didn’t really expect to make anything brilliant but I just thought 'why not give it a go myself and see how it goes!’
"I just started to gather little things from the cupboards like switches, door stoppers, door handles and so on that I already had and could potentially use.
"Then I added my little boy's xylophone because he loves it.
"I also thought about how he loves cars and buses and knew it would be a good idea to use a car or bus shape. Then I just searched for lots of random things on ebay to see what came up and if anything could be used.
"I used spare wood that my mum and dad already had in their garden. I only really had to buy the paint, lights and the tie, zip and button boards. It cost me about £20 for those things.”
Once Taylor decided on the look of the busy board, she got started with the DIY process.
"I decided on the bus shape and drew it onto the wood," she continues. "My dad then cut the shape because I really don’t trust myself with power tools!”
She explains: "Then I painted it red and I did two or three coats of paint. It took quite a while to dry as it was in my mum and dad's shed and the weather was cold but once it was dry we took it into the house and started to attach the lights and everything else onto it.
"I used cable ties to attach everything onto it so that there wouldn’t be the possibility of any nails falling off.
"I felt that this would be a safer option for my little boy.
"It took about a week or so to be completely finished and we then attached it to my little boy's bedroom wall.
"It’s not perfect but he loves it!”
Taylor says she is over the moon with how the busy board turned out, and says it’s a lot less complicated to make than it looks.
"I am very pleased with how it turned out because I really wasn’t expecting it to actually be any good!” she says.
"I think it is the perfect thing to have at home because it really does keep my little boy occupied which is especially important for times like this when you do need to spend more time at home.
"Not only that but it’s also a brilliant time for people to take on these project and try to make things themselves because it really does help with boredom!
“The tip I would give to anybody who would like to do something similar is that even if you don’t think you’re that good at art or making things you should still give it a try!
"I’ve never been one for drawing or making things but I think it still turned out quite well and I think most people could do it if they tried.
"Also, check your cupboards for random things lying around that you already have but haven’t been using. I saved myself a lot of money doing that!
Tom Church, co-founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, comments: “All of us are faced with the prospect of spending months at home due to the spread of coronavirus, and Netflix will go only go so far when it comes to entertaining us.
“Parents running out of ideas to entertain their kids will love Taylor’s ingenious busy board - and best of all, I can’t believe it cost just £20!
“It’s a fantastic idea to search your cupboards for what you already have when doing DIY at home - it will save you spending lots on new supplies, and is better for the environment too.”


birminghammail--2020-03-23--People take exercise class in Birmingham bandstand amid coronavirus pandemic

An exercise class was pictured taking place in a bandstand despite warnings for people to reduce their social contact .
The fitness fanatics defied government orders not to gather in public places by taking part in the al-fresco aerobics class in the bandstand in Birmingham .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged all cafes , pubs and gyms to close on Friday ( 20 March ) amid strict new measures to reduce the spread of the deadly COVID-19 disease .
Mr Johnson had come under increasing pressure to take more stringent action as social distancing measures announced earlier in the week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order the nationwide shutdown was only finally decided at an afternoon meeting of Cobra , the government ’ s crisis committee .
But less than 24 hours later , the lycra-clad group were defying the Prime Minister 's orders and following the directions of a fitness instructor .
Snapper Anita Marric spotted the group while she was taking in the fresh air after a spell of self-isolation .
She said : `` They were not keeping their distance from each other and making sure they did not get too close .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was as though they were doing Zumba or something . ''
Meanwhile , another group were pictured taking part in a Yoga class in a park in Malvern Hills , a popular beauty spot in Worcestershire .
The group appear to be well within two metres of each other , the distance recommended by government that people should be if they must be outside .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
An exercise class was pictured taking place in a bandstand despite warnings for people to reduce their social contact.
The fitness fanatics defied government orders not to gather in public places by taking part in the al-fresco aerobics class in the bandstand in Birmingham.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged all cafes, pubs and gyms to close on Friday (20 March) amid strict new measures to reduce the spread of the deadly COVID-19 disease.
Mr Johnson had come under increasing pressure to take more stringent action as social distancing measures announced earlier in the week were being flouted.
The decision to order the nationwide shutdown was only finally decided at an afternoon meeting of Cobra, the government’s crisis committee.
But less than 24 hours later, the lycra-clad group were defying the Prime Minister's orders and following the directions of a fitness instructor.
Snapper Anita Marric spotted the group while she was taking in the fresh air after a spell of self-isolation.
(Image: Anita Maric / SWNS)
She said: "They were not keeping their distance from each other and making sure they did not get too close.
"I was walking and could hear music, it was as though they were doing Zumba or something."
Meanwhile, another group were pictured taking part in a Yoga class in a park in Malvern Hills, a popular beauty spot in Worcestershire.
The group appear to be well within two metres of each other, the distance recommended by government that people should be if they must be outside.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--Raul Jimenez now has Real Madrid and Man Utd on his tail - report

The competition for Wolves ' superstar Raul Jimenez looks to be hotting up , as the striker is linked with another of Europe 's top clubs .
That ’ s because reports in Spain have claimed that Zinedine Zidane has identified the talismanic Mexican as the man he wants to add striking depth to his Real Madrid squad .
Don Balon claim Zidane reckons Jimenez would be a perfect fit for the Real system to complement Karim Benzema .
The same source also claims that Zidane wants move on Mariano Diaz – and send Luka Jovic out on loan so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game-time .
But Real aren ’ t the only team linked with Jimenez – Manchester United have also been claimed to be interested in the 28-year-old .
Indeed Real might have competition from within their own city with Atletico also said to be keen on bringing him back to the Metropolitano Stadium .
Jimenez has been in sensational form for Wolves , not only this season but ever since he moved to Molineux .
He first came on loan from Benfica in June 2018 and made a €38 million permanent move later that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen his career taken to a new stratosphere and this season he has scored 22 goals in 45 games .
Speaking about speculation linking him with other clubs earlier this month he told ESPN Mexico : “ One is always open to everything , but I have a contract until 2023 . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
The competition for Wolves ' superstar Raul Jimenez looks to be hotting up, as the striker is linked with another of Europe's top clubs.
That’s because reports in Spain have claimed that Zinedine Zidane has identified the talismanic Mexican as the man he wants to add striking depth to his Real Madrid squad.
Don Balon claim Zidane reckons Jimenez would be a perfect fit for the Real system to complement Karim Benzema.
The same source also claims that Zidane wants move on Mariano Diaz – and send Luka Jovic out on loan so that the Serbian youngster can get more game-time.
But Real aren’t the only team linked with Jimenez – Manchester United have also been claimed to be interested in the 28-year-old.
Indeed Real might have competition from within their own city with Atletico also said to be keen on bringing him back to the Metropolitano Stadium.
Jimenez has been in sensational form for Wolves, not only this season but ever since he moved to Molineux.
(Image: PA)
He first came on loan from Benfica in June 2018 and made a €38 million permanent move later that season.
His time in England has seen his career taken to a new stratosphere and this season he has scored 22 goals in 45 games.
Speaking about speculation linking him with other clubs earlier this month he told ESPN Mexico : “One is always open to everything, but I have a contract until 2023."


birminghammail--2020-03-23--Nurse blasts thief who stole from car outside hospital - as she was ON SHIFT

A furious nurse has blasted thieves who stole from her car outside a West Bromwich hospital as she worked tirelessly inside .
Emma Chambers , who works as a senior mental health nurse , completed her shift on Tuesday , March 19 , only to discover her Vauxhall Corsa had been broken into .
The 25-year-old told Black Country Live that the thief stole an iPad Mini and a charger from outside Edward Street Hospital , which provides 24-hour care and support to older people with mental health needs .
“ I just don ’ t get why anyone would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I think the most upsetting thing about the theft is that times are just so uncertain – nurses don ’ t know what shifts they should be working .
We are being pulled left , right and centre because of the virus .
“ I ’ m a senior nurse and I ’ ve gone in for a nightshift – that I haven ’ t done in a year – and my car gets broken into and my iPad gets stolen .
“ I keep thinking it is only material things but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media about thanking NHS staff – but you still have the rotten people that think this is ok. ” Her post – which has been more than 100 times – has sparked outrage online with many slamming the thief ’ s actions .
One said : `` This makes me angry and sad - there is literally some right scumbags in this world . ''
The nurse , who works with the most vulnerable age groups , told a reporter that the theft will now affect the way she gets to work .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ now going to have find a way to get my mum to take me to work – because I don ’ t even want to leave my car at work overnight .
“ I had to go and do another 12-hour nightshift on two hours and half hours sleep because of this theft – when will I catch a break ?
“ People are off sick , people can ’ t come in because of underlying health conditions and now this.
” West Midlands Police has been contacted for a comment .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest Black Country news straight to your inbox
A furious nurse has blasted thieves who stole from her car outside a West Bromwich hospital as she worked tirelessly inside.
Emma Chambers, who works as a senior mental health nurse, completed her shift on Tuesday, March 19, only to discover her Vauxhall Corsa had been broken into.
The 25-year-old told Black Country Live that the thief stole an iPad Mini and a charger from outside Edward Street Hospital, which provides 24-hour care and support to older people with mental health needs.
“I just don’t get why anyone would do this,” she said. “I think the most upsetting thing about the theft is that times are just so uncertain – nurses don’t know what shifts they should be working. We are being pulled left, right and centre because of the virus.
(Image: Handout)
“I’m a senior nurse and I’ve gone in for a nightshift – that I haven’t done in a year – and my car gets broken into and my iPad gets stolen.
“I keep thinking it is only material things but there is a big thing in the media about thanking NHS staff – but you still have the rotten people that think this is ok.”
Her post – which has been more than 100 times – has sparked outrage online with many slamming the thief’s actions.
One said: "This makes me angry and sad - there is literally some right scumbags in this world."
The nurse, who works with the most vulnerable age groups, told a reporter that the theft will now affect the way she gets to work.
She added: “I’m now going to have find a way to get my mum to take me to work – because I don’t even want to leave my car at work overnight.
“I had to go and do another 12-hour nightshift on two hours and half hours sleep because of this theft – when will I catch a break?
“People are off sick, people can’t come in because of underlying health conditions and now this.”
West Midlands Police has been contacted for a comment.


birminghammail--2020-03-23--How to watch Joe Wicks' YouTube PE lesson if you missed it

Joe Wicks ' live PE lesson for British kids who are out of school amid the coronavirus pandemic hit astonishing viewing highs on Monday morning .
The Body Coach saw a staggering 900,000 people tuning into his physical education masterclass on Monday , March 23 .
Last week , Wicks made headlines with the announcement he will host live PE lessons over YouTube for children at home during the coronavirus outbreak .
The 30-minute sessions called PE with Joe will be streamed live on Wicks ’ YouTube channel at 9am every weekday morning .
Wicks previously confirmed they will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of space .
You will be able to catch up if you miss the live stream , by heading to Wicks ' YouTube channel and clicking the 'videos ' tab .
The video went down a storm with parents , who hailed Wicks for his affable nature and know-how .
`` Brilliant initiative , '' one wrote on Twitter , while a second added : `` Got all my kids doing it ! ''
`` Great way to bring the family together , '' a third added .
Another branded Wicks `` brilliant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is a great way to start the week . ''
Many mums and dads appeared to be enjoying it as much as the kids .
“ Don ’ t worry , I ’ ve got you .
I ’ m going to take this over .
I ’ m going to get your kids moving , getting energised , positive , optimistic , ” Wicks told his fans on Monday morning .
Joe added : `` I produce so much free fitness content online and I never ask for anything in return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I need your support to help spread this online so as many parents as possible know that this is an option for them to use next week .
`` All I need is for you to screenshot this and post it on your wall , story , Twitter , Facebook , Whatsapp , Linked in and anywhere else .
Please share away . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss any TV and showbiz news - sign up to free alerts
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Don't miss any TV and showbiz news - sign up to free alerts
Joe Wicks' live PE lesson for British kids who are out of school amid the coronavirus pandemic hit astonishing viewing highs on Monday morning.
The Body Coach saw a staggering 900,000 people tuning into his physical education masterclass on Monday, March 23.
Last week, Wicks made headlines with the announcement he will host live PE lessons over YouTube for children at home during the coronavirus outbreak.
The 30-minute sessions called PE with Joe will be streamed live on Wicks’ YouTube channel at 9am every weekday morning.
Wicks previously confirmed they will not require any specialist equipment or large amounts of space.
(Image: Conor McDonnell)
You will be able to catch up if you miss the live stream, by heading to Wicks' YouTube channel and clicking the 'videos' tab.
The video went down a storm with parents, who hailed Wicks for his affable nature and know-how.
"Brilliant initiative," one wrote on Twitter, while a second added: "Got all my kids doing it!"
"Great way to bring the family together," a third added.
Another branded Wicks "brilliant", while another wrote: "This is a great way to start the week."
Many mums and dads appeared to be enjoying it as much as the kids.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“Don’t worry, I’ve got you. I’m going to take this over. I’m going to get your kids moving, getting energised, positive, optimistic,” Wicks told his fans on Monday morning.
Joe added: "I produce so much free fitness content online and I never ask for anything in return but today I need your help. I need your support to help spread this online so as many parents as possible know that this is an option for them to use next week.
"All I need is for you to screenshot this and post it on your wall, story, Twitter, Facebook, Whatsapp, Linked in and anywhere else. Please share away."