birminghammail--2020-07-01--Three Chilean burglars who ransacked Cheshire 'Golden Triangle' homes jailed

Three Chilean nationals who went on a burglary spree in Cheshire 's `` Golden Triangle '' after travelling thousands of miles to the UK have been jailed .
Brothers Nicholas Carrasco Oviedo , 26 , and Alexis Carrasco Oviedo , 25 , and Joel Ureta , 42 , targeted homes in Prestbury , Alderley Edge , Wilmslow and Knutsford shortly after flying into the UK in January .
They hired a Mercedes car at Manchester Airport and then booked themselves into a hotel in nearby Sale under a false name as they hatched a `` sophisticated plan '' to steal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and designer handbags and clothing .
Chester Crown Court heard that Chileans coming to the UK in winter and committing offences of burglary was part of a `` national pattern of offending '' in which cash or stolen items would then be mailed back to South America .
Frances Willmott , prosecuting , said a message later found on Nicholas Oviedo 's phone said they would be taking some of their haul to `` the Romanians '' in exchange for cash .
The trio broke into seven homes between January 4 and 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than £106,000 and caused another £12,000 in damage by either smashing upstairs windows or patio doors to gain entry .
One victim , a neighbour of former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson , had a set of cufflinks and a watch worth £2,000 stolen .
The raiders also struck at the home of a 75-year-old widow and made off with precious jewellery worth £10,000 , including her grandmother 's engagement ring .
But a neighbour saw them make their escape on January 15 and noted the registration number of the Mercedes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicle was stopped by police in Manchester and items of jewellery , along with a balaclava , were discovered and the defendants were arrested .
The court heard all three men were remorseful for their crimes .
Alexis Oviedo had served a three-year jail sentence in Chile for committing a robbery as a youth while father-of-three Ureta had been imprisoned for burglary in his home country .
Nicholas Oviedo has no previous convictions and was an ex-professional footballer in Chile who `` clearly had fallen on hard times '' , the court was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four years , while the other two defendants were sentenced to four years and eight months each in prison after they all admitted seven counts of burglary .
Sentencing , Judge Steven Everett , Honorary Recorder of Chester , told them : `` It is clear there was a very sophisticated plan for you to commit these burglaries and then dispose of the items you had stolen .
`` You must have had ready-made contacts in this country for you to know where to sell these items .
I have no doubt that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very carefully .
`` It is important that I send out a message to you , and others like you , that if you choose to do this you are going to prison for a significant period of time . ''
He ordered they be deported to Chile when they had served at least half of their sentence in custody and that none of them should ever be allowed back in the UK .
Last month , two other Chilean `` tourism '' burglars were jailed at the same court after they went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run-up to last Christmas , including burgling the home of ex-Manchester United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak .

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Three Chilean nationals who went on a burglary spree in Cheshire's "Golden Triangle" after travelling thousands of miles to the UK have been jailed.
Brothers Nicholas Carrasco Oviedo, 26, and Alexis Carrasco Oviedo, 25, and Joel Ureta, 42, targeted homes in Prestbury, Alderley Edge, Wilmslow and Knutsford shortly after flying into the UK in January.
They hired a Mercedes car at Manchester Airport and then booked themselves into a hotel in nearby Sale under a false name as they hatched a "sophisticated plan" to steal high-value items such as jewellery, watches and designer handbags and clothing.
Chester Crown Court heard that Chileans coming to the UK in winter and committing offences of burglary was part of a "national pattern of offending" in which cash or stolen items would then be mailed back to South America.
Frances Willmott, prosecuting, said a message later found on Nicholas Oviedo's phone said they would be taking some of their haul to "the Romanians" in exchange for cash.
The trio broke into seven homes between January 4 and 15 as they made off with goods totalling more than £106,000 and caused another £12,000 in damage by either smashing upstairs windows or patio doors to gain entry.
One victim, a neighbour of former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, had a set of cufflinks and a watch worth £2,000 stolen.
The raiders also struck at the home of a 75-year-old widow and made off with precious jewellery worth £10,000, including her grandmother's engagement ring.
But a neighbour saw them make their escape on January 15 and noted the registration number of the Mercedes hire car.
Later that evening the vehicle was stopped by police in Manchester and items of jewellery, along with a balaclava, were discovered and the defendants were arrested.
(Image: PA)
The court heard all three men were remorseful for their crimes.
Alexis Oviedo had served a three-year jail sentence in Chile for committing a robbery as a youth while father-of-three Ureta had been imprisoned for burglary in his home country.
Nicholas Oviedo has no previous convictions and was an ex-professional footballer in Chile who "clearly had fallen on hard times", the court was told.
Nicholas Oviedo was jailed for four years, while the other two defendants were sentenced to four years and eight months each in prison after they all admitted seven counts of burglary.
(Image: PA)
Sentencing, Judge Steven Everett, Honorary Recorder of Chester, told them: "It is clear there was a very sophisticated plan for you to commit these burglaries and then dispose of the items you had stolen.
"You must have had ready-made contacts in this country for you to know where to sell these items. I have no doubt that you chose your victims and their houses very carefully.
"It is important that I send out a message to you, and others like you, that if you choose to do this you are going to prison for a significant period of time."
(Image: PA)
He ordered they be deported to Chile when they had served at least half of their sentence in custody and that none of them should ever be allowed back in the UK.
Last month, two other Chilean "tourism" burglars were jailed at the same court after they went on a similar ransacking spree in the run-up to last Christmas, including burgling the home of ex-Manchester United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Lotto results: Winning National Lottery numbers for Wednesday

Saturday 's estimated lottery jackpot stands at £4 million after no-one scooped the top prize in Wednesday 's draw .
@ @ @ @ @ of the £1 million prize for matching five of the six numbers plus the bonus @ @ @ @ @ numbers were 01 , 08 , 24 , 27 , 29 , 55 and the @ @ @ @ @ Set of balls nine and draw machine Arthur were used .
Some 56 people matched @ @ @ @ @ , while 3,557 matched four to pocket £140 .
One lucky person scooped the top @ @ @ @ @ HotPicks , matching all five numbers .
Ten people matched four of five numbers to @ @ @ @ @ there was no top winner in the Thunderball draw , but two players matched five @ @ @ @ @ The winning Thunderball numbers were 01 , 14 , 20 , 24 , 29 and @ @ @ @ @

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Saturday's estimated lottery jackpot stands at £4 million after no-one scooped the top prize in Wednesday's draw.
There were also no winners of the £1 million prize for matching five of the six numbers plus the bonus ball.
The winning Lotto numbers were 01, 08, 24, 27, 29, 55 and the bonus ball was 04.
Set of balls nine and draw machine Arthur were used.
Some 56 people matched five numbers to win £1,750, while 3,557 matched four to pocket £140.
One lucky person scooped the top prize of £350,000 in Lotto HotPicks, matching all five numbers.
Ten people matched four of five numbers to win £13,000.
Meanwhile, there was no top winner in the Thunderball draw, but two players matched five numbers to scoop £5,000.
The winning Thunderball numbers were 01, 14, 20, 24, 29 and the Thunderball was 04.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--'Swagger' - The player ratings as Albion demolish Sheff Wed

West Brom are finally off the mark after the season ’ s restart in emphatic circumstances .
They dispatched hosts Sheffield Wednesday 3-0 at Hillsborough on Wednesday , to extend the gap between themselves and third placed Brentford to five points once more .
A Charlie Austin penalty in the first half was complemented by a Matheus Pereira brace in the second period .
This wasn ’ t only a significant win , but the second half performance was Albion ’ s best in many months .
Slaven Bilic made five changes to his Albion team after the defeat at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Dara O ’ Shea , Filip Krovinovic , Kyle Bartley and Rekeem Harper .
Albion began brightly , but the hosts quickly got a grip of proceedings and appeared a threat across their front-line ; ex-Baggie Jacob Murphy , Kadeem Harris , Connor Wickham and Adam Reach all attacked Albion ’ s area with a direct approach .
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Google Play Store and App Store With the visitors under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ luck when O ’ Shea was dragged down when looking to meet a Pereira free kick , and referee Webb pointed to the spot - Austin slotted home without a second thought .
Ahead against the run of play , Albion would justify their lead at the beginning of the second period .
They came out looking much sharper , and doubled their lead with a delightful Pereira goal .
Substitute Callum Robinson and Kieran Gibbs combined down the left and when the latter offered up a floating first time cross , Pereira @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past Wildsmith .
With Wednesday imposing themselves , chasing the game , Albion were able to soak up pressure in the second half and sprung regular counter attacks , which often involved subs Kamil Grosicki and Callum Robinson .
Another sub , Hal Robson-Kanu , teed up Pereira for his second late on .
This could be a poignant evening in the promotion race .
Here is how we rated the players .
A seventh clean sheet in 11 games , and in fairness had very little to do here , even when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start .
Solid save to deny Murphy from distance in stoppage time .
Harris proved a real menace on the wing in the first half , but O ’ Shea for his part cut out most of the danger with his usual no-nonsense approach .
Hauled over to win the penalty .
Selected to line up alongside Hegazi , over long-term partner Ajayi .
Convincingly won one early aerial battle , but within five minutes had let another dangerous ball bounce .
Yet Bartley grew into the game here .
Won countless headers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to clear corners , but found Wickham - in red-hot form - more than a handful .
Often mopped up any loose balls in the final third .
Continued that into the second period , and eventually won the battle with Wickham .
Colossal .
One of the better players for Albion since the restart .
Had his hands full with the interchanging Reach and ex-teammate Murphy , but applied himself earnestly .
Lovely cross was seen to by Pereira .
Looks fit , and at the moment is firing .
Caught @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his own half , and Albion were fortunate to escape without any concerns , but he was disciplined here in a defensive sense too , tracking back and shielding the danger from goal .
By the end , he ’ d had the better of Scottish wizard Barry Bannan .
Struggled to knit moves together on the left , as we ’ ve seen him do so often .
Wires were crossed occasionally with Diangana which meant moves broke down .
Looked more up for it in the second 45 , and played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Tried his luck from range at one point , and wasn ’ t far away with a rasping drive .
Showed willing when he bombed past possessor of the ball Pereira but the through pass on the break never arrived .
Might ’ ve killed the game when well tackled in the box , but this was a decent showing .
Sloppy in the opening 45 by his stratospheric stands .
His set-piece delivery was better - it was his free kick in the build up to the awarding of the penalty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as accurate as expected .
Some header to finish off a lovely Albion move for the second goal , and emphatic finish for the second .
We ’ re still waiting for the supremely talented winger to get back up and running - properly .
Let it not be forgotten that his wait for regular football has been twice as long as his teammates .
One or two nice touches , but he didn ’ t link with Pereira as dangerously as usual .
When Austin plays , he often scores .
Took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swagger , sending Wildsmith the wrong way and placing it coolly in the corner .
Worked mightily hard , even without many other clear-cut chances .
Really bright cameo .
Lifted Albion at the beginning of the second half and played a hand in the second goal .
He ’ s alive !
We ’ ve been waiting to see him , though tiring defenders certainly can ’ t enjoy the prospect of facing Turbo when leggy .
A constant threat .
Might ’ ve had goals and assists on another day .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the third , after having his own shot blocked off in the build up .

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West Brom are finally off the mark after the season’s restart in emphatic circumstances.
They dispatched hosts Sheffield Wednesday 3-0 at Hillsborough on Wednesday, to extend the gap between themselves and third placed Brentford to five points once more.
A Charlie Austin penalty in the first half was complemented by a Matheus Pereira brace in the second period. This wasn’t only a significant win, but the second half performance was Albion’s best in many months.
Slaven Bilic made five changes to his Albion team after the defeat at Brentford, which involved starts for Austin, Dara O’Shea, Filip Krovinovic, Kyle Bartley and Rekeem Harper.
Albion began brightly, but the hosts quickly got a grip of proceedings and appeared a threat across their front-line; ex-Baggie Jacob Murphy, Kadeem Harris, Connor Wickham and Adam Reach all attacked Albion’s area with a direct approach.
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With the visitors under the cosh, they enjoyed a stroke of luck when O’Shea was dragged down when looking to meet a Pereira free kick, and referee Webb pointed to the spot - Austin slotted home without a second thought.
Ahead against the run of play, Albion would justify their lead at the beginning of the second period. They came out looking much sharper, and doubled their lead with a delightful Pereira goal.
Substitute Callum Robinson and Kieran Gibbs combined down the left and when the latter offered up a floating first time cross, Pereira rose and diverted a well executed header past Wildsmith.
With Wednesday imposing themselves, chasing the game, Albion were able to soak up pressure in the second half and sprung regular counter attacks, which often involved subs Kamil Grosicki and Callum Robinson.
Another sub, Hal Robson-Kanu, teed up Pereira for his second late on. This could be a poignant evening in the promotion race.
Here is how we rated the players.
Albion (4-3-3)
Johnstone 7
A seventh clean sheet in 11 games, and in fairness had very little to do here, even when the hosts were on top at the start. Solid save to deny Murphy from distance in stoppage time.
O’Shea 8
Harris proved a real menace on the wing in the first half, but O’Shea for his part cut out most of the danger with his usual no-nonsense approach. Hauled over to win the penalty.
A particularly mature display against seasoned, talented opponents.
Bartley 7
Selected to line up alongside Hegazi, over long-term partner Ajayi. Convincingly won one early aerial battle, but within five minutes had let another dangerous ball bounce.
Yet Bartley grew into the game here.
Hegazi 9*
Won countless headers in the first half, many of them to clear corners, but found Wickham - in red-hot form - more than a handful. Often mopped up any loose balls in the final third.
Continued that into the second period, and eventually won the battle with Wickham. Colossal.
Gibbs 8
One of the better players for Albion since the restart. Had his hands full with the interchanging Reach and ex-teammate Murphy, but applied himself earnestly. Lovely cross was seen to by Pereira. Looks fit, and at the moment is firing.
Sawyers 8
Caught in possession of the ball when inside his own half, and Albion were fortunate to escape without any concerns, but he was disciplined here in a defensive sense too, tracking back and shielding the danger from goal.
By the end, he’d had the better of Scottish wizard Barry Bannan.
Krovinovic 7
Struggled to knit moves together on the left, as we’ve seen him do so often. Wires were crossed occasionally with Diangana which meant moves broke down.
Looked more up for it in the second 45, and played a hand in a handful of counters.
(Image: Adam Fradgley/AMA)
Harper 7
Tried his luck from range at one point, and wasn’t far away with a rasping drive. Showed willing when he bombed past possessor of the ball Pereira but the through pass on the break never arrived.
Might’ve killed the game when well tackled in the box, but this was a decent showing.
Pereira 8
Sloppy in the opening 45 by his stratospheric stands. His set-piece delivery was better - it was his free kick in the build up to the awarding of the penalty - but his passing wasn’t as accurate as expected.
Some header to finish off a lovely Albion move for the second goal, and emphatic finish for the second.
(Image: Adam Fradgley/AMA)
Diangana 5
We’re still waiting for the supremely talented winger to get back up and running - properly. Let it not be forgotten that his wait for regular football has been twice as long as his teammates. One or two nice touches, but he didn’t link with Pereira as dangerously as usual.
Austin 7
When Austin plays, he often scores. Took the penalty with a great deal of swagger, sending Wildsmith the wrong way and placing it coolly in the corner.
Worked mightily hard, even without many other clear-cut chances.
(Image: Adam Fradgley/AMA)
Subs
Robinson (for Diangana 56) 7
Really bright cameo. Lifted Albion at the beginning of the second half and played a hand in the second goal.
Grosicki (for Krovinovic 68) 7
He’s alive! We’ve been waiting to see him, though tiring defenders certainly can’t enjoy the prospect of facing Turbo when leggy. A constant threat. Might’ve had goals and assists on another day.
Robson-Kanu (for Austin 68) 6
Looked up and picked out Pereira for the third, after having his own shot blocked off in the build up.
Ajayi (for Harper 87)
Livermore (for Pereira 87)
Subs not used: Bond, Furlong, Brunt, Townsend
Sheffield Wednesday: Wildsmith; Palmer, Rhodes (Da Cruz HT), Harris, Bannan (Hunt 86), Reach (Nuhiu 61), Odubajo, Wickham, Iorfa, Murphy, Luongo (Lee 61)
Subs not used: Dawson, Pelupessy, Shaw, Brennan, Hughes
GOALS
Sheffield Wednesday - ; Albion - Austin pen 37, Pereira 58, 85
The ref: David Webb
Up next: Hull City (h) - Sunday 5 July (3pm KO)


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Aston Villa talent breaks silence after transfer decision

After over a decade with the club , midfielder Jack Birch has left Aston Villa , posting a farewell message on social media .
The defensive midfielder was a regular for Villa 's U18 sides , and made the step up to Villa 's U23 ranks in the Premier League 2 - playing nine games before academy football was curtailed .
However , he will be left looking elsewhere for football following his release .
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Google Play Store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa have come to an end , I ’ ve met some amazing people , played with talented players and have been coached by great staff , '' said Birch , 19 , on Twitter .
`` I would like to thank everyone who ’ s participated in my growth as a footballer and growth as a person , now it ’ s time for a new chapter . ''
Birch signed his first professional deal with the Villans last January , signing alongside Michael Tait and Jacob Ramsey .
`` Jack has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joining the club at our entry level as an U9 player , '' said Sean Kimberly , academy manager at the time .
`` He ’ s a central midfield player who demonstrates excellent vision and technical ability to pass the ball accurately both over short and long distances . ''
`` Although frustrated through injury this season , I ’ m looking forward to seeing how he progresses at the next level . ''
Unfortunately , he wo n't get the chance to shine now at Villa - but like plenty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the amount of former Villans plying their trade across England .

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After over a decade with the club, midfielder Jack Birch has left Aston Villa, posting a farewell message on social media.
The defensive midfielder was a regular for Villa's U18 sides, and made the step up to Villa's U23 ranks in the Premier League 2 - playing nine games before academy football was curtailed.
However, he will be left looking elsewhere for football following his release.
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"12 years with Villa have come to an end, I’ve met some amazing people, played with talented players and have been coached by great staff," said Birch, 19, on Twitter.
"I would like to thank everyone who’s participated in my growth as a footballer and growth as a person, now it’s time for a new chapter."
Birch signed his first professional deal with the Villans last January, signing alongside Michael Tait and Jacob Ramsey.
"Jack has progressed through the academy schoolboy ranks since joining the club at our entry level as an U9 player," said Sean Kimberly, academy manager at the time.
"He’s a central midfield player who demonstrates excellent vision and technical ability to pass the ball accurately both over short and long distances."
"Although frustrated through injury this season, I’m looking forward to seeing how he progresses at the next level."
Unfortunately, he won't get the chance to shine now at Villa - but like plenty of academy graduates, should take heart from the amount of former Villans plying their trade across England.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Pep Clotet has his say on Birmingham City's head coach uncertainty

Pep Clotet insists Birmingham City ’ s sluggish restart to the season has nothing to do with his personal situation .
Before the Championship resumed Blues announced Clotet will be leaving at the end of the campaign creating speculation about the search for a successor .
Despite a solid display in the first game back -a 0-0 draw at West Brom - Blues have failed to beat two struggling teams at home , drawing 3-3 with Hull and losing to Huddersfield .
The 3-0 reverse to the Terriers was one of Blues ’ worst performances of the season - but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do with uncertainty .
“ I have a good relationship with all the players , I respect them and trust them one hundred per cent on their professionalism , ” he said .
“ The club decided to make this public whenever they decided to but I think all the players are fully focused on doing their best for themselves and for the club .
“ It is not that they are not trying , they are down , they have frustration because things are not working for us today and they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have that nature , when I spoke to them after the game the only thing I saw was a desire to bounce back on Saturday.
” That will take them to promotion-chasing Fulham - where they will have to be far better at both ends of the pitch than they were against the Terriers .
“ We see strange things in football , I saw a Birmingham that I normally don ’ t see .
`` They dominated from box to box completely and played well through the lines but we were not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should have been .
“ We created enough chances for the scoreline to be different and I think as a team we were a little bit soft and conceded to put ourselves into some situations defensively that we normally don ’ t get .
“ It is a performance we are responsible for and don ’ t like , we had chances to produce a different score but that doesn ’ t count if you don ’ t put them in .
”

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Pep Clotet insists Birmingham City’s sluggish restart to the season has nothing to do with his personal situation.
Before the Championship resumed Blues announced Clotet will be leaving at the end of the campaign creating speculation about the search for a successor.
Despite a solid display in the first game back -a 0-0 draw at West Brom - Blues have failed to beat two struggling teams at home, drawing 3-3 with Hull and losing to Huddersfield.
The 3-0 reverse to the Terriers was one of Blues’ worst performances of the season - but Clotet does not accept it has anything to do with uncertainty.
“I have a good relationship with all the players, I respect them and trust them one hundred per cent on their professionalism,” he said.
“The club decided to make this public whenever they decided to but I think all the players are fully focused on doing their best for themselves and for the club.
“It is not that they are not trying, they are down, they have frustration because things are not working for us today and they want to be competitive.
“They have that nature, when I spoke to them after the game the only thing I saw was a desire to bounce back on Saturday.”
That will take them to promotion-chasing Fulham - where they will have to be far better at both ends of the pitch than they were against the Terriers.
“We see strange things in football, I saw a Birmingham that I normally don’t see.
"They dominated from box to box completely and played well through the lines but we were not as strong in both boxes as we should have been.
“We created enough chances for the scoreline to be different and I think as a team we were a little bit soft and conceded to put ourselves into some situations defensively that we normally don’t get.
“It is a performance we are responsible for and don’t like, we had chances to produce a different score but that doesn’t count if you don’t put them in.”


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Aston Villa fans revel in West Ham controversy after VAR intervention

Aston Villa fans were quick to praise VAR after it 's intervention in West Ham vs Chelsea at the London Stadium .
The crucial game - that has massive implications for Villa 's battle for survival - stunned watchers after West Ham took an early 'lead ' .
West Ham , sitting above Villa in 17th place on goal difference , took a lead before VAR intervened .
Tomáš Souček stooped to score at the back post , but Michail Antonio - judged to be interfering with play - lay in an offside position as the ball crept over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
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Google Play Store and App Store It took around three minutes for VAR to make the call , but the call favoured Chelsea - and Villa - denying West Ham the goal .
`` I do n't like that one .
Not for me .
I 'm one that has patience , but that was never right .
The interference , but it 's so close , '' said Gary Neville - calling the game on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't over .
Moments later , Christian Pulisic was felled in the box , with Willian dispatching the resulting penalty to give Chelsea the lead only seconds after West Ham had 'scored ' .
The Hammers would n't have to wait long for 'justice ' though , Souček was able to claim a header and nod into the net to bring the Hammers in equal at half-time .
The battle for survival will have plenty of twists and turns , but Villa fans were able to revel in the misfortune of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made of the incident .
`` Nice of you to turn up VAR . ''
`` Never been happier to have VAR . ''
`` Always been a big fan of VAR . ''
`` He ’ s lying on the floor in front of the keeper , how is that not interfering . ''

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Aston Villa fans were quick to praise VAR after it's intervention in West Ham vs Chelsea at the London Stadium.
The crucial game - that has massive implications for Villa's battle for survival - stunned watchers after West Ham took an early 'lead'.
West Ham, sitting above Villa in 17th place on goal difference, took a lead before VAR intervened.
Tomáš Souček stooped to score at the back post, but Michail Antonio - judged to be interfering with play - lay in an offside position as the ball crept over the line.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
It took around three minutes for VAR to make the call, but the call favoured Chelsea - and Villa - denying West Ham the goal.
"I don't like that one. Not for me. I'm one that has patience, but that was never right. The interference, but it's so close," said Gary Neville - calling the game on Sky Sports.
However, the controversy wasn't over. Moments later, Christian Pulisic was felled in the box, with Willian dispatching the resulting penalty to give Chelsea the lead only seconds after West Ham had 'scored'.
The Hammers wouldn't have to wait long for 'justice' though,Souček was able to claim a header and nod into the net to bring the Hammers in equal at half-time.
The battle for survival will have plenty of twists and turns, but Villa fans were able to revel in the misfortune of the Hammers.
Here's what Villa fans made of the incident.
"VAR is Villa's post-lockdown friend."
"Nice of you to turn up VAR."
"It’s obviously offside."
"Absolutely ridiculous."
"Never been happier to have VAR."
"VAR is good again."
"Always been a big fan of VAR."
"Love VAR, love Dwight Gayle. I feel sick!"
"He’s lying on the floor in front of the keeper, how is that not interfering."


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Our verdict on Birmingham City's dismal defeat to Huddersfield Town

There was a sinking feeling at St Andrew ’ s this evening as Birmingham City were over-run by a Huddersfield Town team showing all the desperation and urgency lacked by the hosts .
It was a game shaped by yet another half-soaked opening quarter – just as Blues were caught on their heels by Hull on Saturday , so too they were second best in the early exchanges with the Terriers .
It was almost as if Danny Cowley had been watching at the weekend .
Then , when they had stabilised , they fluffed the key moments .
Lukas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goalkeeper to beat and then when Lee Camp saved Karlan Grant ’ s second penalty – there felt like a change of momentum .
It lasted for the next 50 seconds until Frazier Campbell poked in just his third goal of the season – after that it was all huff and puff with the Terriers blowing down the house cards .
It would be unfair to criticise the players ’ effort , none of them stopped running but it was all very individual and had little effect .
The harder they tried the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were inversely proportional .
All of which left Blues having conceded six goals in two games , at home to two teams in the relegation zone .
Well , they were before they came to St Andrew ’ s .
Only Hull have a worse home record and only QPR have shipped more than Blues ’ 35 goals at their home venue .
Fans or no fans .
Throw in a record of eight Championship games without a victory and it feels as though a season which hinted at progress in January/February time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that ?
Are Pep Clotet ’ s men heading for a relegation battle ?
With Hull and Middlesbrough due to meet on Thursday night , Blues remain seven points clear of the drop zone .
If the Tigers win that will leave them six clear of Stoke .
Clotet has to take his team to the Bet 365 on Sunday week .
Appointments with Fulham , Swansea , Charlton , Preston and Derby remain and only two or three points are likely to be required to guarantee safety .
Particularly with Wigan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deduction .
And it might be that the team will be more assertive and focused from the first minute against opponents as threatening as Fulham .
There will be less onus on Blues to attack at Craven Cottage – and that might be to their advantage .
After this it would be very Blues to go and pick something up at Fulham .
But there are worrying signs .
The points won ’ t win themselves and in the last two matches the side has looked disjointed and unsure of itself , stuck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Blues aren ’ t in a relegation battle .
Yet .
But that doesn ’ t mean it ’ s not possible .

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There was a sinking feeling at St Andrew’s this evening as Birmingham City were over-run by a Huddersfield Town team showing all the desperation and urgency lacked by the hosts.
It was a game shaped by yet another half-soaked opening quarter – just as Blues were caught on their heels by Hull on Saturday, so too they were second best in the early exchanges with the Terriers.
It was almost as if Danny Cowley had been watching at the weekend.
Then, when they had stabilised, they fluffed the key moments. Lukas Jutkiewicz missed a sitter with only the goalkeeper to beat and then when Lee Camp saved Karlan Grant’s second penalty – there felt like a change of momentum.
It lasted for the next 50 seconds until Frazier Campbell poked in just his third goal of the season – after that it was all huff and puff with the Terriers blowing down the house cards.
It would be unfair to criticise the players’ effort, none of them stopped running but it was all very individual and had little effect. The harder they tried the less they achieved. Endeavour and cohesion were inversely proportional.
All of which left Blues having conceded six goals in two games, at home to two teams in the relegation zone. Well, they were before they came to St Andrew’s.
(Image: Getty Images)
Only Hull have a worse home record and only QPR have shipped more than Blues’ 35 goals at their home venue. Fans or no fans.
Throw in a record of eight Championship games without a victory and it feels as though a season which hinted at progress in January/February time is starting to slip.
How worrying is that? Are Pep Clotet ’s men heading for a relegation battle?
With Hull and Middlesbrough due to meet on Thursday night, Blues remain seven points clear of the drop zone. If the Tigers win that will leave them six clear of Stoke. Clotet has to take his team to the Bet 365 on Sunday week.
(Image: Getty Images)
Appointments with Fulham, Swansea, Charlton, Preston and Derby remain and only two or three points are likely to be required to guarantee safety. Particularly with Wigan destined to be slapped with a big deduction.
And it might be that the team will be more assertive and focused from the first minute against opponents as threatening as Fulham.
There will be less onus on Blues to attack at Craven Cottage – and that might be to their advantage. After this it would be very Blues to go and pick something up at Fulham.
But there are worrying signs. The points won’t win themselves and in the last two matches the side has looked disjointed and unsure of itself, stuck between the balance of attack and defence.
Blues aren’t in a relegation battle. Yet. But that doesn’t mean it’s not possible.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--'I am begging you' - Chelsea star Tammy Abraham receives Aston Villa demand

Aston Villa are just under ninety minutes away from their relegation situation resetting once more as West Ham face Chelsea , with former Villan Tammy Abraham leading the line for the Blues .
The Villans will be hoping that Chelsea find a victory , with the 17th placed Hammers seeking their first win following the restart .
After losing on the weekend to Wolves , Villa 's own situation has improved after Bournemouth fell 4-1 to Newcastle United earlier today .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ App Store The manner of the loss has ensured Villa creep up a place in the table , due to the Cherries drawing level on goal-difference .
That also means that a heavy loss for West Ham will push Villa out of the relegation zone - if they are to concede five or more goals .
Villans ' hopes then , will rest on the shoulder of former Villa star Abraham , who starts in place of Olivier Giroud tonight .
`` It 's not an easy call .
I had to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lampard after opting for the up-front change .
`` I hope Tammy 's mobility can help like the work-rate he showed against Leicester . ''
Here 's what Villa fans have said ... '' Come on Tammy , 5 goals tonight to help out Villa please ! ''
`` TAMMY ABRAHAM YOU KNOW YOU STILL LOVE US ! ''
`` Get it done Tammy . ''
`` Tammy do your thing .
Help us out . ''
`` Agent Tammy to score 5 to get us out of the bottom 3 . ''

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birminghammail--2020-07-01--This is what Worcestershire is doing to avoid a second Covid spike

A plan has been revealed for how Worcestershire is trying to prevent a second spike of coronavirus .
The county council has published details of what it is doing to prevent a local outbreak and what it will do if it happens .
It comes as England moves to the next phase of easing restrictions , with the reopening of pubs , clubs , bars and restaurants and also tourist attractions .
The exception is Leicester , which has had its lockdown extended for at least another two weeks due to a spike in cases .
Worcestershire County Council has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details exactly what it is doing to keep infections under control and what measures it will take if a second spike occurs .
It says it will `` act quickly '' if its data shows the virus is on the increase again .
This would involve closing down the affected setting , such as a business or care home .
Worcestershire 's population is around 592,000 - with just over 20,000 of those being classed as `` highly vulnerable '' and needing to be shielded .
Although there are around 100,000 people over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four per cent of the county ( 25,000 people ) is black , Asian and minority ethnic ( BAME ) .
The cornerstone of Worcestershire 's plan to avoid a second wave is to keep coronavirus under control by using the NHS Test and Trace programme , for which it had received £2.7 million funding from the Government .
Using this , local health experts can monitor which areas of the county are experiencing any increase in people having Covid-19 .
The main testing site is at the Worcester Warriors ground , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Evesham , and people can also use the ones in Birmingham and Gloucestershire .
Dr Kathryn Cobain , Director for Public Health in Worcestershire , said : `` A robust action plan is a cornerstone to protecting the wellbeing of our residents .
`` The plan clearly demonstrates our commitment to dealing with outbreaks quickly and effectively , and our determination to prevent outbreaks from happening.
`` Dr Cobain the plan relied on `` everyone playing their part '' by booking a test if they had any symptoms of the virus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Protection Board was meeting weekly , a Local Outbreak Response Team had been set up to respond immediately to any spikes .
Worcestershire is also rolling out the new antibody test - which checks if a person has already had the virus .
This would be for NHS staff and patients at first , and will then be rolled out more widely .

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A plan has been revealed for how Worcestershire is trying to prevent a second spike of coronavirus.
The county council has published details of what it is doing to prevent a local outbreak and what it will do if it happens.
It comes as England moves to the next phase of easing restrictions, with the reopening of pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants and also tourist attractions.
(Image: Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
The exception is Leicester, which has had its lockdown extended for at least another two weeks due to a spike in cases.
Worcestershire County Council has published its Outbreak Control Plan, which details exactly what it is doing to keep infections under control and what measures it will take if a second spike occurs.
It says it will "act quickly" if its data shows the virus is on the increase again. This would involve closing down the affected setting, such as a business or care home.
Worcestershire's population is around 592,000 - with just over 20,000 of those being classed as "highly vulnerable" and needing to be shielded. Although there are around 100,000 people over 70, many are healthy. About four per cent of the county (25,000 people) is black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME).
The cornerstone of Worcestershire's plan to avoid a second wave is to keep coronavirus under control by using the NHS Test and Trace programme, for which it had received £2.7 million funding from the Government. Using this, local health experts can monitor which areas of the county are experiencing any increase in people having Covid-19.
The main testing site is at the Worcester Warriors ground, but there are also mobile sites at Bromsgrove and Evesham, and people can also use the ones in Birmingham and Gloucestershire.
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Dr Kathryn Cobain, Director for Public Health in Worcestershire, said: "A robust action plan is a cornerstone to protecting the wellbeing of our residents.
"The plan clearly demonstrates our commitment to dealing with outbreaks quickly and effectively, and our determination to prevent outbreaks from happening. "
Dr Cobain the plan relied on "everyone playing their part" by booking a test if they had any symptoms of the virus, and then isolating.
The local Covid-19 Health Protection Board was meeting weekly, a Local Outbreak Response Team had been set up to respond immediately to any spikes.
Worcestershire is also rolling out the new antibody test - which checks if a person has already had the virus. This would be for NHS staff and patients at first, and will then be rolled out more widely.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Villa fans all make the same point about Bournemouth defeat

Aston Villa have climbed a place in the Premier League table - without playing .
Villa were 19th prior to tonight 's fixtures following the 1-0 defeat at the hands of Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday .
That was the sixth defeat suffered by Dean Smith 's side in an eight-match winless run that has plunged them into deep trouble .
Villa now face a daunting double-header against Liverpool and Manchester United but received a boost without kicking a ball on Wednesday evening .
Bournemouth suffered a heavy defeat which resulted in Villa moving up a place to 18th while bottom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comprehensively beaten .
The Cherries were hammered 4-1 by Newcastle United , slipping to second bottom because of the impact the result had on their goal difference .
One Villa fan on social media said : `` Villa climbing the table in July and our last win was 21st January what a club . ''
`` Villa ’ s staying up , staying up , Villa ’ s staying up , '' said another .
A third added : `` The first move up the table in what seems like a lifetime .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Bournemouth look doomed , '' responded one supporter .
Another said : `` Villa move up to 18th as Newcastle smash their fourth past Bournemouth lets goooo ... '' '' Lads , we 've actually moved up to 18th as it stands .
WE ARE STAYING UP ! ''
predicted one .
Another fan quipped : `` We ’ re actually do better when we don ’ t play ! ''

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Aston Villa have climbed a place in the Premier League table - without playing.
Villa were 19th prior to tonight's fixtures following the 1-0 defeat at the hands of Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.
That was the sixth defeat suffered by Dean Smith's side in an eight-match winless run that has plunged them into deep trouble.
Villa now face a daunting double-header against Liverpool and Manchester United but received a boost without kicking a ball on Wednesday evening.
Bournemouth suffered a heavy defeat which resulted in Villa moving up a place to 18th while bottom of the table Norwich City were also comprehensively beaten.
The Cherries were hammered 4-1 by Newcastle United, slipping to second bottom because of the impact the result had on their goal difference.
One Villa fan on social media said: "Villa climbing the table in July and our last win was 21st January what a club."
"Villa’s staying up, staying up, Villa’s staying up," said another.
A third added: "The first move up the table in what seems like a lifetime."
"Well good news for us, Bournemouth look doomed," responded one supporter.
Another said: "Villa move up to 18th as Newcastle smash their fourth past Bournemouth lets goooo..."
"Lads, we've actually moved up to 18th as it stands. WE ARE STAYING UP!" predicted one.
Another fan quipped: "We’re actually do better when we don’t play!"


birminghammail--2020-07-01--School clubs can open during holidays- but no singing allowed

New safety advice from the Government will see children able to attend school clubs during the summer holidays The guidance means youngsters from all year groups can take advantage of the popular clubs and their activities - but singing will be banned .
Children will be encouraged to walk or cycle to the centres rather than take public transport .
The advice also recommends children staying within 'small , consistent groups ' of no more than 15 pupils and at least one member of staff should be at hand .
The move comes after the Government said that providers of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the summer .
It 's good news for parents who have been home-schooling for the last four months and will allow many to return to work .
If a child is over the age of five , they will be able to take part in school clubs once the summer term begins .
However the guidance recommends parents and carers send their child to 'same setting consistently ' to reduce the risk of transmitting coronavirus .
The advice also says youngsters should not be offered 'overnight or residential provision ' at present @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection risk if children take part in group singing activities with the guidance banning scenarios where youngsters are 'singing , chanting , shouting or conversing loudly . '
The guidance states : `` You should consider this added risk in environments that require children or adults to raise their voice to communicate with anyone outside their household and consider how to reduce the risk by avoiding particular activities in your setting , such as group singing activities . ''
More guidance on music and singing for September onwards is expected to be released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DfE ) .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has confirmed that a detailed plan on how the Government will ensure that all children in England are back in the classroom by September will be set out by the end of this week .
Class sizes in primary schools are currently at 15 pupils to reduce the number of interactions between young children , but these groups or bubbles could increase in the autumn to 30 pupils .
The draft proposals also set out guidance for secondary schools with pupils belonging to a 'bubble 'made @ @ @ @ @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (P.A, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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New safety advice from the Government will see children able to attend school clubs during the summer holidays
The guidance means youngsters from all year groups can take advantage of the popular clubs and their activities - but singing will be banned.
Children will be encouraged to walk or cycle to the centres rather than take public transport.
The advice also recommends children staying within 'small, consistent groups' of no more than 15 pupils and at least one member of staff should be at hand.
The move comes after the Government said that providers of out-of-school and holiday activities can operate clubs over the summer.
It's good news for parents who have been home-schooling for the last four months and will allow many to return to work.
If a child is over the age of five, they will be able to take part in school clubs once the summer term begins.
However the guidance recommends parents and carers send their child to 'same setting consistently' to reduce the risk of transmitting coronavirus.
The advice also says youngsters should not be offered 'overnight or residential provision' at present.
And there could be an added infection risk if children take part in group singing activities with the guidance banning scenarios where youngsters are 'singing, chanting, shouting or conversing loudly.'
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The guidance states: "You should consider this added risk in environments that require children or adults to raise their voice to communicate with anyone outside their household and consider how to reduce the risk by avoiding particular activities in your setting, such as group singing activities."
More guidance on music and singing for September onwards is expected to be released soon from the Department for Education (DfE).
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has confirmed that a detailed plan on how the Government will ensure that all children in England are back in the classroom by September will be set out by the end of this week.
Class sizes in primary schools are currently at 15 pupils to reduce the number of interactions between young children, but these groups or bubbles could increase in the autumn to 30 pupils.
The draft proposals also set out guidance for secondary schools with pupils belonging to a 'bubble 'made up of an entire year group.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Taxi driver in viral video breaks silence over attack

The injured taxi driver behind a sickening viral video has broken his silence over an attack sparked by a £20 fare .
Muhammad Arif , 52 , was repeatedly punched as he dropped off his first passenger of the day in Kimpton Close , Druids Heath on Tuesday afternoon ( June 30 ) .
The cabbie , who is a dad-of-four , was assaulted as a row over payment turned violent near to a block of flats at around 2pm .
His passenger lashed out after refusing to pay for an hour-long journey through Birmingham , Mr Arif revealed just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was very painful , when he hit me in the face , it bled and swelled , '' the A Cars taxi driver recalled , his eyesight still impaired by the purple bruising .
`` This is the reason I called the ambulance .
They checked my blood pressure and heartbeat and they said it had gone very high . ''
He said times have been extremely tough throughout the coronavirus crisis , with drivers often waiting up to two hours to pick up their first job of the day .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Arif was pleased to have made what would have been the biggest fare of the day .
`` It was a fare of £20 .
I picked one [ person ] up outside a flower shop , they took me to three places , and after three places he got out from my car at the last destination . ''
But as soon as they arrived , the victim said his passenger fled with all his belongings - including a bag packed with more than a dozen bottles of booze .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't bother with , sometimes they run .
But they had been with me more than one hour , it was my first job yesterday , it 's very hard to find a good job [ in the pandemic ] .
`` You can wait one hour sometimes two hours to get a job . ''
Mr Arif politely asked the thug to pay up and to leave something inside the taxi 'for security ' as he went to leave .
But instead he began punching the driver in vicious scenes widely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't expecting him to be a runner because he had a heavy bag with more than 15 bottles .
I told him this was not fair he had to pay the £20 .
I held the bag so he just started hitting me . ''
After the man fled , the cabbie was taken by ambulance to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where they took X-rays and administered pain relief before discharging him .
But he has been left out of work as the swelling means he can not drive , he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give up the job amid concerns for his safety , and Mr Arif is unsure when he will return to work .
`` I will see what 's happening in two to three days because of the swelling I ca n't drive properly , '' he added .
`` This video being viral , thanks to that lady for making that video because sometimes you do n't have any evidence , so this means police can take action because all the evidence is in front of them . ''
West Midlands Police confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track the passenger , with anyone with information urged to get in touch .
The statement from West Midlands Police read : `` We ’ re investigating after a taxi driver was attacked following a dispute over a fare in Druids Heath at around 2pm yesterday ( 30 June ) .
`` The 52-year-old man was taken to hospital with a cut and swelling to his face after being repeatedly punched in Kimpton Close .
`` We ’ re aware of video circulating on social media and the footage is being examined as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacker . ''
Following the attack , Councillor Majid Mahmood called on Birmingham City Council to implement CCTV into all private hire cars and hackney carriages .
Sharing the horrific video , seen above , he wrote to Facebook : `` I ’ m disgusted by this vicious assault on a hardworking Private Hire driver by a passenger who refused to pay his fare .
`` I ’ m sick of these relentless physical and verbal assaults against our hardworking Private Hire drivers .
The police should adopt of a zero tolerance approach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hesitation in using their powers to imprison perpetrators the who embark upon such vicious assaults .
`` The victim is quite elderly , and he is just trying to make a honest living providing for his family .
This is at a time when we are in the midst of a national crisis of COVID19 and the drivers are risking their lives to help the rest of us inc key workers such as the NHS . ''
`` If CCTV was mandatory the attacker would be brought to swift justice .
That ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to lobby the City Council until CCTV is installed in all Private Hire and Hackney Carriage drivers . ''
Anyone with information is asked to contact police via Live Chat , or by calling 101 , and quote 20BW/151488Q/20 .

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The injured taxi driver behind a sickening viral video has broken his silence over an attack sparked by a £20 fare.
Muhammad Arif, 52, was repeatedly punched as he dropped off his first passenger of the day in Kimpton Close, Druids Heath on Tuesday afternoon (June 30).
The cabbie, who is a dad-of-four, was assaulted as a row over payment turned violent near to a block of flats at around 2pm.
His passenger lashed out after refusing to pay for an hour-long journey through Birmingham, Mr Arif revealed just 24 hours after the attack.
(Image: Councillor Majid Mahmood)
"It was very painful, when he hit me in the face, it bled and swelled," the A Cars taxi driver recalled, his eyesight still impaired by the purple bruising.
"This is the reason I called the ambulance. They checked my blood pressure and heartbeat and they said it had gone very high."
He said times have been extremely tough throughout the coronavirus crisis, with drivers often waiting up to two hours to pick up their first job of the day.
So when the rare journey totalled £20 - Mr Arif was pleased to have made what would have been the biggest fare of the day.
"It was a fare of £20. I picked one [person] up outside a flower shop, they took me to three places, and after three places he got out from my car at the last destination."
But as soon as they arrived, the victim said his passenger fled with all his belongings - including a bag packed with more than a dozen bottles of booze.
"It's the four five pounds we don't bother with, sometimes they run. But they had been with me more than one hour, it was my first job yesterday, it's very hard to find a good job [in the pandemic].
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"You can wait one hour sometimes two hours to get a job."
Mr Arif politely asked the thug to pay up and to leave something inside the taxi 'for security' as he went to leave.
But instead he began punching the driver in vicious scenes widely shared to social media.
"I wasn't expecting him to be a runner because he had a heavy bag with more than 15 bottles. I told him this was not fair he had to pay the £20. I held the bag so he just started hitting me."
After the man fled, the cabbie was taken by ambulance to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where they took X-rays and administered pain relief before discharging him.
But he has been left out of work as the swelling means he cannot drive, he said.
His family have urged him to give up the job amid concerns for his safety, and Mr Arif is unsure when he will return to work.
"I will see what's happening in two to three days because of the swelling I can't drive properly," he added.
"This video being viral, thanks to that lady for making that video because sometimes you don't have any evidence, so this means police can take action because all the evidence is in front of them."
West Midlands Police confirmed it was using the video to help track the passenger, with anyone with information urged to get in touch.
The statement from West Midlands Police read: "We’re investigating after a taxi driver was attacked following a dispute over a fare in Druids Heath at around 2pm yesterday (30 June).
"The 52-year-old man was taken to hospital with a cut and swelling to his face after being repeatedly punched in Kimpton Close.
"We’re aware of video circulating on social media and the footage is being examined as part of our enquiries to trace the attacker."
Following the attack, Councillor Majid Mahmood called on Birmingham City Council to implement CCTV into all private hire cars and hackney carriages.
Sharing the horrific video, seen above, he wrote to Facebook: "I’m disgusted by this vicious assault on a hardworking Private Hire driver by a passenger who refused to pay his fare.
"I’m sick of these relentless physical and verbal assaults against our hardworking Private Hire drivers. The police should adopt of a zero tolerance approach, and the courts should have no hesitation in using their powers to imprison perpetrators the who embark upon such vicious assaults.
"The victim is quite elderly, and he is just trying to make a honest living providing for his family. This is at a time when we are in the midst of a national crisis of COVID19 and the drivers are risking their lives to help the rest of us inc key workers such as the NHS."
"If CCTV was mandatory the attacker would be brought to swift justice. That’s why I’m going to continue to lobby the City Council until CCTV is installed in all Private Hire and Hackney Carriage drivers."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police via Live Chat, or by calling 101, and quote 20BW/151488Q/20.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Full list of big chain pubs opening in Birmingham and Solihull this weekend

Pub chains across the nation are gearing up to reopen on Saturday , July 4 - the first time in four months .
Customers will see a raft of changes as pubs implement new safety measures following the coronavirus lockdown .
These include more drinking outdoors and a reduced bar service .
Minimal staff will be on hand and customers will be asked to order via apps to reduce social contact .
Boozers will introduce the new one metre social distancing rule while some will operate at reduced times .
If two metres is n't workable in some pubs then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ additional measures such as as back-to-back seating and perspex screens , will have to be in use .
Customers should also expect disposable menus and one-in-one-out queues for toilets .
The NHS 's new test and trace initiative will be in use with drinkers asked to share their contact details .
Its guidelines say : `` You should assist this service by keeping a temporary record of your customers and visitors for 21 days , in a way that is manageable for your business , and assist NHS Test and Trace with requests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This could help contain clusters or outbreaks . ''
These are the pub chains reopening from Saturday , July 4 in Birmingham and Solihull : All the chain 's pubs will welcome customers from July 4 with bookings available online .
Some pubs may be operating reduced hours while others may have a limited menu .
Bars such as All Bar One will also have apps to make a booking , view menus and use the order and pay service .
To find a Mitchells and Butler pub click on this link .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Solihull under the umbrella of Stonegate pubs .
Four apps have been launched ahead of the July 4 opening with Order & Table functionality including one for Slug & Lettuce and Be at One app .
The MyPub app covers the majority of its brands and is available on and app stores .
And sport lovers will like elps customers find their nearest pub to watch the big game .
The app is available on and app stores now .
The company has launched ‘ Welcome Back ’ web pages to allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their local Stonegate venues will be opening their doors .
Customers are also advised to check sites ’ Facebook pages for updates .
It says it is implementing social distancing measures , enhanced cleaning regimes and single use menus .
Contactless payments and hand sanitiser stations will also be readily available in the new layout of its pubs and bars .
• Pubs With More - 13 pubs opening from July 4 • Sports Bar and Grill - six bars opening from July 4 .
To find a Stonegate pub in your area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be opening 85 per cent of its pubs on July 4 after it was forced to shut its 1,400 pubs across the UK in March due to the coronavirus crisis .
This includes Rotisserie pubs and Pitcher and Pianos .
Drinkers can book a table at their nearest Marston 's pub either through its website or by phoning a pub .
The city centre 's Lost and Found is among those reopening .
You can find your nearest local by using its pub locator tool .
The chain has made several changes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Customers will be directed around the pub with arrows and metre spacing floor graphics and single use menus will be provided and then disposed of .
There will also be hand sanitisers at the entrance and in other parts of the pub .
Customers can order directly at the bar within clearly marked lines and behind perspex screens , or from the table using an online system , which will be available later in July .
Card payments are preferred although customers can still pay with cash .
Visit the website here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wetherspoon is set to reopen 750 of its pubs on July 4 .
The firm says it has has invested £11million into new measures to keep employees and customers safe .
Staff will their temperature checked before they are allowed back at work and they will also be handed gloves , masks and eyewear .
One metre distancing has seen tables moved with some having screens installed .
Its new app will allow customers to order from tables and there will be separate exits and entrances at pubs .
Wetherspoons will also employ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clean surfaces and touch points .
Among those opening in Birmingham is The Square Peg in Corporation Street and The Briar Rose in Bennetts Hill .
Find your nearest Wetherspoon click here .
Greene King is re-opening 1,294 of its pubs from Monday July 6 .
The remainder will open at a later date .
All of its 1700 managed pubs will follow a new set of Pub Safe promises which is designed to look after employees and ensure customers can socialise safely .
It includes minimising contact , hand sanitising and hygiene @ @ @ @ @ @ @ screens around tills .
Disposable menus will be in use as well as an app for customers to book a table at their local .
The brewery says staff have been trained on health and safety measures and its employees will also be expected to do temperature checks at the beginning of each shift .
Click here to find out more .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Emma Munbodh, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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Pub chains across the nation are gearing up to reopen on Saturday, July 4 - the first time in four months .
Customers will see a raft of changes as pubs implement new safety measures following the coronavirus lockdown. These include more drinking outdoors and a reduced bar service.
Minimal staff will be on hand and customers will be asked to order via apps to reduce social contact.
Boozers will introduce the new one metre social distancing rule while some will operate at reduced times.
If two metres isn't workable in some pubs then customers can sit one metre apart but additional measures such as as back-to-back seating and perspex screens, will have to be in use.
Customers should also expect disposable menus and one-in-one-out queues for toilets.
The NHS's new test and trace initiative will be in use with drinkers asked to share their contact details.
Its guidelines say: "You should assist this service by keeping a temporary record of your customers and visitors for 21 days, in a way that is manageable for your business, and assist NHS Test and Trace with requests for that data if needed.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"This could help contain clusters or outbreaks."
These are the pub chains reopening from Saturday, July 4 in Birmingham and Solihull:
Mitchells and Butlers
All the chain's pubs will welcome customers from July 4 with bookings available online.
Some pubs may be operating reduced hours while others may have a limited menu. Bars such as All Bar One will also have apps to make a booking, view menus and use the order and pay service.
The full list includes:
All Bar One
Browns
Castle
Ember Inns
Inkeepers Lodge
Miller & Carter
Nicholson's
O'Neill's
Oak Tree
Orchid Pubs
Premium Country Pub
Sizzling Pubs
Vintage Inns
Stonehouse Pizza and Carvery
To find a Mitchells and Butler pub click on this link.
Stonegate Pubs
There are plenty of pubs in Birmingham and Solihull under the umbrella of Stonegate pubs.
Four apps have been launched ahead of the July 4 opening with Order & Table functionality including one for Slug & Lettuce and Be at One app.
The MyPub app covers the majority of its brands and is available on Apple and Google app stores.
And sport lovers will like We Love Sport app that h elps customers find their nearest pub to watch the big game.
The app is available on Apple and Google app stores now.
The company has launched ‘Welcome Back’ web pages to allow customers to easily find out which of their local Stonegate venues will be opening their doors.
Customers are also advised to check sites’ Facebook pages for updates.
It says it is implementing social distancing measures, enhanced cleaning regimes and single use menus.
Contactless payments and hand sanitiser stations will also be readily available in the new layout of its pubs and bars.
The full list of brands open includes:
To find a Stonegate pub in your area, click here.
Follow Cathrina Hulse on social media Cathrina Hulse is a multi-media journalist for Birmingham Live and Birmingham Mail. Follow Cathrina here Follow Cathrina on Facebook here Read more of Cathrina's stories here Have you got a story? Email cathrina.hulse@reachplc.com or call 0121 234 5552
Marston's
Marston's will be opening 85 per cent of its pubs on July 4 after it was forced to shut its 1,400 pubs across the UK in March due to the coronavirus crisis.
This includes Rotisserie pubs and Pitcher and Pianos. Drinkers can book a table at their nearest Marston's pub either through its website or by phoning a pub.
The city centre's Lost and Found is among those reopening.
You can find your nearest local by using its pub locator tool.
(Image: Graham Young)
The chain has made several changes to keep customers safe in the coronavirus pandemic. Customers will be directed around the pub with arrows and metre spacing floor graphics and single use menus will be provided and then disposed of.
There will also be hand sanitisers at the entrance and in other parts of the pub.
Customers can order directly at the bar within clearly marked lines and behind perspex screens, or from the table using an online system, which will be available later in July.
Card payments are preferred although customers can still pay with cash.
Visit the website here to find a pub near you.
(Image: NickHorner/BirminghamLive)
J D Wetherspoons
Wetherspoon is set to reopen 750 of its pubs on July 4.
The firm says it has has invested £11million into new measures to keep employees and customers safe.
Staff will their temperature checked before they are allowed back at work and they will also be handed gloves, masks and eyewear.
One metre distancing has seen tables moved with some having screens installed.
The pubs will offer a slightly reduced menu.
Its new app will allow customers to order from tables and there will be separate exits and entrances at pubs.
Wetherspoons will also employ two full-time staff per pub to regularly clean surfaces and touch points.
Among those opening in Birmingham is The Square Peg in Corporation Street and The Briar Rose in Bennetts Hill. Find your nearest Wetherspoon click here.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Greene King
Greene King is re-opening 1,294 of its pubs from Monday July 6.
The remainder will open at a later date.
All of its 1700 managed pubs will follow a new set of Pub Safe promises which is designed to look after employees and ensure customers can socialise safely.
It includes minimising contact, hand sanitising and hygiene measures, safe socialising layout and using screens around tills.
Disposable menus will be in use as well as an app for customers to book a table at their local.
The brewery says staff have been trained on health and safety measures and its employees will also be expected to do temperature checks at the beginning of each shift.
Click here to find out more.


birminghammail--2020-07-01--Blues 0 Huddersfield 3 - player ratings as hosts left bereft

Birmingham City ’ s winless run extended to nine games as they were soundly beaten by a Huddersfield Town side battling for their lives .
One first half goal from Karlan Grant and two in the second from Frazier Campbell and Elias Kanchunga left Blues looking bereft and disjointed .
They started sloppily just as they did against Hull on Saturday , with Harlee Dean almost caught in possession from the opening kick-off .
It didn ’ t take long for the Terriers ’ greater urgency to pay dividends as they sprung on the counter and the lively Grant was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area .
The attacker stepped up and powered his spot kick past Lee Camp for his 18th of the season .
The hosts didn ’ t have an attempt on goal until the 22nd minute when Kristian Pedersen picked out Lukas Jutkiewicz but the striker ’ s header lacked power .
Seven minutes before the break Jutkiewicz applied too much force to his next opportunity – totally unmarked six yards out from Dan Crowley ’ s cross .
Soon after that Crowley and Jeremie Bela released Pedersen who picked out Gary Gardner for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was too close to Jonas Lossl .
Huddersfield started the second half as they had the first , causing mayhem for the Blues ’ defence .
Five minutes in a corner saw Gardner foul Chris Schindler in the box earning Grant a second chance from the spot .
Camp guessed right again and palmed his effort aside .
Blues ’ reprieve didn ’ t even last a full minute .
Harry Toffolo swung a free kick low from the left and Campbell slid in for 2-0 .
The match was decided as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another Toffolo free kick picked out Steve Mounie round the back .
The striker headed across goal and Elias Kachunga was on hand to bundle home .
Is goal was under siege in the opening exchanges , without compelling him to make a save – other than the spot-kick .
He knew which way Grant was going but couldn ’ t stop a well-struck penalty .
He managed to do just that at the start of the second half though - and also saved well from Pritchard .
Over-run in the first few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countered from his poor cross in the build up to the Grant penalty .
Rarely looked comfortable - evidenced by a wild hack when he could have pulled a goal back .
Almost caught in possession after three seconds and an ill-judged sliding tackle for the penalty .
Nearly robbed by Smith-Rowe in the second half too .
Neither Blues nor their captain ever looked in control at the back .
Looked more stable than against Hull , one crucial first half block on Harry Toffolo ’ s drive and some exquisite distribution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his end of the bargain while those around him wobbled .
Better than on Saturday , managed Elias Kachunga well and put in two excellent first half crosses which might have been assists .
Won most of his headers and kept his side battened down reasonably well .
Hassled early on but grew into the game and took his team with him , finding pockets of space and Jutkiewicz six yards out with a pin-point cross .
He could n't quite unlock the defensive door in the second half , although he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He and Bellingham were undermanned in the first few minutes as Town passed through the middle .
He might have done better with a header from Pedersen ’ s cross in the first half and will feel aggrieved to have let Schinlder escape him for the second spot-kick .
Slightly fortunate not to pick up a booking in the first half as the referee played-on after several fouls .
Like Gardner it took him time to get to grips with the visitors ’ early onslaught .
Produced one moment of quality when he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on but overall it was a struggle .
Spent most of the first half trying to knit things together in the middle of the park with Pedersen the one doing the overlapping .
Played wider in the second half and put some decent balls into the Town box without ever picking out a the right colour shirt .
Once more of the periphery of the game , he made his runs and did his pressing but it was all a bit disjointed as Blues didn ’ t harness his efforts .
The magic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gradually imposed himself on Richard Stearman at times – but he really should have hit the target from Crowley ’ s cross .
His second half booking was a sign of his increasing frustration as his link-up play did n't produce any dividends .

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Birmingham City’s winless run extended to nine games as they were soundly beaten by a Huddersfield Town side battling for their lives.
One first half goal from Karlan Grant and two in the second from Frazier Campbell and Elias Kanchunga left Blues looking bereft and disjointed.
They started sloppily just as they did against Hull on Saturday, with Harlee Dean almost caught in possession from the opening kick-off.
It didn’t take long for the Terriers’ greater urgency to pay dividends as they sprung on the counter and the lively Grant was scythed down by Dean in the penalty area.
The attacker stepped up and powered his spot kick past Lee Camp for his 18th of the season.
The hosts didn’t have an attempt on goal until the 22nd minute when Kristian Pedersen picked out Lukas Jutkiewicz but the striker’s header lacked power.
Seven minutes before the break Jutkiewicz applied too much force to his next opportunity – totally unmarked six yards out from Dan Crowley’s cross.
Soon after that Crowley and Jeremie Bela released Pedersen who picked out Gary Gardner for another free header. Once again it was too close to Jonas Lossl.
Huddersfield started the second half as they had the first, causing mayhem for the Blues’ defence.
Five minutes in a corner saw Gardner foul Chris Schindler in the box earning Grant a second chance from the spot.
Camp guessed right again and palmed his effort aside.
Blues’ reprieve didn’t even last a full minute. Harry Toffolo swung a free kick low from the left and Campbell slid in for 2-0.
The match was decided as a contest with 20 minutes to go when another Toffolo free kick picked out Steve Mounie round the back.
The striker headed across goal and Elias Kachunga was on hand to bundle home.
STARTING FORMATION
4-4-2
*CAMP 7
Is goal was under siege in the opening exchanges, without compelling him to make a save – other than the spot-kick.
He knew which way Grant was going but couldn’t stop a well-struck penalty.
He managed to do just that at the start of the second half though - and also saved well from Pritchard.
(Image: Getty Images)
COLIN 4.5
Over-run in the first few minutes and got caught upfield when Huddersfield countered from his poor cross in the build up to the Grant penalty.
Rarely looked comfortable - evidenced by a wild hack when he could have pulled a goal back.
DEAN 4
Almost caught in possession after three seconds and an ill-judged sliding tackle for the penalty.
Nearly robbed by Smith-Rowe in the second half too. Neither Blues nor their captain ever looked in control at the back.
CLARKE-SALTER 5.5
Looked more stable than against Hull, one crucial first half block on Harry Toffolo’s drive and some exquisite distribution.
Looked as though he kept up his end of the bargain while those around him wobbled.
PEDERSEN 5.5
Better than on Saturday, managed Elias Kachunga well and put in two excellent first half crosses which might have been assists.
Won most of his headers and kept his side battened down reasonably well.
CROWLEY 6
Hassled early on but grew into the game and took his team with him, finding pockets of space and Jutkiewicz six yards out with a pin-point cross.
He couldn't quite unlock the defensive door in the second half, although he was the man who looked most likely.
GARDNER 5
He and Bellingham were undermanned in the first few minutes as Town passed through the middle.
He might have done better with a header from Pedersen’s cross in the first half and will feel aggrieved to have let Schinlder escape him for the second spot-kick.
(Image: Getty Images)
BELLINGHAM 5
Slightly fortunate not to pick up a booking in the first half as the referee played-on after several fouls.
Like Gardner it took him time to get to grips with the visitors’ early onslaught. Produced one moment of quality when he found Dean at the back stick late on but overall it was a struggle.
BELA 4.5
Spent most of the first half trying to knit things together in the middle of the park with Pedersen the one doing the overlapping.
Played wider in the second half and put some decent balls into the Town box without ever picking out a the right colour shirt.
HOGAN 4
Once more of the periphery of the game, he made his runs and did his pressing but it was all a bit disjointed as Blues didn’t harness his efforts. The magic has worn off.
JUTKIEWICZ 5
Worked hard and gradually imposed himself on Richard Stearman at times – but he really should have hit the target from Crowley’s cross.
His second half booking was a sign of his increasing frustration as his link-up play didn't produce any dividends.
SUBSTITUTES
Not used: Trueman, Harding, Roberts, Burke, Sunjic, Kieftenbeld, Boyd-Munce, Stirk, Reid
OPPOSITION
HUDDERSFIELD (4-2-3-1): Lossl; Duhaney (Chalobah 82), Stearman, Schindler, Toffolo; Hogg, O’Brien; Kachunga (Quaner 82), Smith-Rowe (Pritchard 70), Grant; Campbell (Mounie 60). Not used: Coleman, Willock, Stankovic, King, Daly
GOALS
HUDDERSFIELD: Grant (pen, 10), Frazier (51), Kachunga (72)
THE REF: Robert Jones
NEXT UP: Fulham (A), Saturday, July 4, 3pm kick-off