birminghammail--2020-10-28--Villa sent Barkley transfer message after excellent start

It ’ s safe to say that Ross Barkley has hit the ground running at Aston Villa .
The Chelsea loanee arrived to boost Dean Smith ’ s pool of midfield numbers in the summer transfer window and has slotted in alongside John McGinn and Douglas Luiz in the Lions ’ middle trio .
The former Evertonian had an immediate impact against Liverpool as Villa put the champions to the sword , and then - even though he ’ d not trained during the week building up to the game - he completed 90 minutes and netted a stoppage time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ross Barkley best at , and how will he affect Villa 's displays over the course of the season ?
It 's all in the AVFC Extra discussion ...
Things have begun really well ; the fans have taken to Barkley , and he in turn seems to have fitted in seamlessly alongside captain Jack Grealish , Ollie Watkins and the rest of the claret and blue first team .
Barkley , still only 26 and reaching a stage of his career where most footballers enter their prime years , still harbours ambitions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chelsea hold all the cards when it comes to his future .
He ’ ll still have two years to run on his Stamford Bridge contract when he returns to the capital next summer , so the Blues would need to be coaxed into parting with him if he does enough in the season coming to convince Villa and Smith that he ’ s worth pursuing on a permanent basis .
The double edged sword scenario of any loan deal , of course , means that Barkley could almost perform so well at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he has to play under Frank Lampard .
It ’ s early days , of course , but to that end , what kind of transfer fee would Villa fans deem Barkley to be worth if next summer all parties got together to discuss a longer stay ?
In our Villa survey , we had thousands of responses from supporters who answered various questions .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you sign up ?
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Google Play Store and App Store Asked to rate Barkley ’ s performances so far at Villa , the average rating out of ten was an 8 .
Asked to sum him up in a single word , the most returned adjective was ‘ class ’ .
And the final question : If Villa could sign him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they should pay ?
The majority , 44 % , said between £20-30m , while 38 % would back them to splash out £30-40m .
A further 12 % deem Barkley to be worth £40-50m and 6 % said over £50m .

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It’s safe to say that Ross Barkley has hit the ground running at Aston Villa.
The Chelsea loanee arrived to boost Dean Smith’s pool of midfield numbers in the summer transfer window and has slotted in alongside John McGinn and Douglas Luiz in the Lions’ middle trio.
The former Evertonian had an immediate impact against Liverpool as Villa put the champions to the sword, and then - even though he’d not trained during the week building up to the game - he completed 90 minutes and netted a stoppage time winner at Leicester City.
What is Ross Barkley best at, and how will he affect Villa's displays over the course of the season? It's all in the AVFC Extra discussion...
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Things have begun really well; the fans have taken to Barkley, and he in turn seems to have fitted in seamlessly alongside captain Jack Grealish, Ollie Watkins and the rest of the claret and blue first team.
Barkley, still only 26 and reaching a stage of his career where most footballers enter their prime years, still harbours ambitions to represent England regularly but parent club Chelsea hold all the cards when it comes to his future.
He’ll still have two years to run on his Stamford Bridge contract when he returns to the capital next summer, so the Blues would need to be coaxed into parting with him if he does enough in the season coming to convince Villa and Smith that he’s worth pursuing on a permanent basis.
The double edged sword scenario of any loan deal, of course, means that Barkley could almost perform so well at Villa Park that Chelsea reconsider the role he has to play under Frank Lampard.
It’s early days, of course, but to that end, what kind of transfer fee would Villa fans deem Barkley to be worth if next summer all parties got together to discuss a longer stay?
In our Villa survey, we had thousands of responses from supporters who answered various questions.
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
Asked to rate Barkley’s performances so far at Villa, the average rating out of ten was an 8. Asked to sum him up in a single word, the most returned adjective was ‘class’.
And the final question: If Villa could sign him permanently, what’s the maximum they should pay?
The majority, 44%, said between £20-30m, while 38% would back them to splash out £30-40m. A further 12% deem Barkley to be worth £40-50m and 6% said over £50m.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Homeowners could be owed tens of thousands of pounds in stamp duty refunds

Homeowners could be owed tens of thousands of pounds over a stamp duty blunder , say tax advisors .
Across the UK , 10,000 homeowners with annexes on their property could have overpaid on stamp duty due to poor advice .
In Birmingham alone , it 's believed 25 per cent of homeowners with an annexe on their property were not advised that they could have paid a reduced rate of stamp duty on their property at the point of purchase .
This is because properties with a self-contained annexe may qualify for Multiple Dwellings Relief , meaning a reduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a stamp duty holiday on residential properties worth up to £500,000 .
This is running from July 8 , 2020 to March 31 , 2021 .
Before it was introduced , stamp duty cost homebuyers a total of £13 billion a year .
Tax advisors say it 's been estimated that more than £3 billion worth of stamp duty was overpaid in 2015/16 due to mistakes in advice , along with confusing and complex rules .
David Hannah , principal consultant and founder of Cornerstone Tax , says the confusion is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holiday finishes next year .
Mr Hannah explained : `` Properties with an annexe have become a popular choice among buyers looking for somewhere with long-term flexibility .
`` According to classified property search engine Trovit , there are currently 1,019 properties with self contained annexes for sale in the UK , 7.3 per cent of which are in Birmingham .
`` Across the whole of England and Wales the number of 'granny annexes ' being built has increased by 16 per cent in recent years .
`` There are huge benefits to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the idea of having grandparents close by is an increasingly attractive option for many families , and equally , an annex has allowed young adults to move back home during lockdown , rather than spending money on renting expensive flat shares in the city .
`` One lesser known benefit of owning a property with a self-contained annex is that you could be eligible for Multiple Dwellings Relief , meaning you could pay a reduced stamp duty fee . ''
He says research carried out by Cornerstone Tax has found that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an annexe on their property were n't told about Multiple Dwellings Relief .
Mr Hannah added : `` This research demonstrates a lack of clarity in and around stamp duty land tax , both by the public and by the legal sector .
`` Millions of properties across the UK could qualify for reduced stamp duty rates , if for example , they have a self contained side annex as part of the property .
In these cases , solicitors have a duty of care to inform their customers of all potential stamp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Relief is available .
`` The mistakes being made are in almost all cases totally unintentional and otherwise made in fear of underpaying .
Most legal professionals are ill-equipped to navigate the complex rules around it and need help .
`` The law is incredibly complex and many advisors who help homebuyers evaluate how much they should pay are trained only to differentiate between residential and commercial property .
`` They simply aren ’ t familiar with the intricacies of the law ’ s evaluation criteria , which has led to many being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of other reasons why people have overpaid ; it ’ s not always a misinterpretation of the 3 per cent surcharge . ''
Stamp duty can be calculated on the Government website here .
But there is a word of warning .
Earlier this year , a tribunal ruled against a claim for Multiple Dwellings Relief because an annexe was connected with the main house internally by an open corridor .
Financial Adviser reports that the the tribunal decided the purchase , which included a main house and annexe , did not count @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Multiple Dwellings Relief .
The owners had appealed against HM Revenue & Customs after tax chiefs refused to repay £10,000 of stamp duty .

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Homeowners could be owed tens of thousands of pounds over a stamp duty blunder, say tax advisors.
Across the UK, 10,000 homeowners with annexes on their property could have overpaid on stamp duty due to poor advice.
In Birmingham alone, it's believed 25 per cent of homeowners with an annexe on their property were not advised that they could have paid a reduced rate of stamp duty on their property at the point of purchase.
This is because properties with a self-contained annexe may qualify for Multiple Dwellings Relief, meaning a reduced stamp duty fee.
At present, there is a stamp duty holiday on residential properties worth up to £500,000. This is running from July 8, 2020 to March 31, 2021.
Before it was introduced, stamp duty cost homebuyers a total of £13 billion a year.
Tax advisors say it's been estimated that more than £3 billion worth of stamp duty was overpaid in 2015/16 due to mistakes in advice, along with confusing and complex rules.
David Hannah, principal consultant and founder of Cornerstone Tax, says the confusion is likely to increase when the stamp duty holiday finishes next year.
Mr Hannah explained: "Properties with an annexe have become a popular choice among buyers looking for somewhere with long-term flexibility.
"According to classified property search engine Trovit, there are currently 1,019 properties with self contained annexes for sale in the UK, 7.3 per cent of which are in Birmingham.
"Across the whole of England and Wales the number of 'granny annexes' being built has increased by 16 per cent in recent years.
"There are huge benefits to having a granny annexe. For example, the idea of having grandparents close by is an increasingly attractive option for many families, and equally, an annex has allowed young adults to move back home during lockdown, rather than spending money on renting expensive flat shares in the city.
"One lesser known benefit of owning a property with a self-contained annex is that you could be eligible for Multiple Dwellings Relief, meaning you could pay a reduced stamp duty fee."
He says research carried out by Cornerstone Tax has found that a quarter of homeowners in Birmingham who have an annexe on their property weren't told about Multiple Dwellings Relief.
Mr Hannah added: "This research demonstrates a lack of clarity in and around stamp duty land tax, both by the public and by the legal sector.
"Millions of properties across the UK could qualify for reduced stamp duty rates, if for example, they have a self contained side annex as part of the property. In these cases, solicitors have a duty of care to inform their customers of all potential stamp duty reductions, including where Multiple Dwellings Relief is available.
"The mistakes being made are in almost all cases totally unintentional and otherwise made in fear of underpaying. Most legal professionals are ill-equipped to navigate the complex rules around it and need help.
"The law is incredibly complex and many advisors who help homebuyers evaluate how much they should pay are trained only to differentiate between residential and commercial property.
"They simply aren’t familiar with the intricacies of the law’s evaluation criteria, which has led to many being mis-advised unintentionally. There are a number of other reasons why people have overpaid; it’s not always a misinterpretation of the 3 per cent surcharge."
Stamp duty can be calculated on the Government website here.
But there is a word of warning. Earlier this year, a tribunal ruled against a claim for Multiple Dwellings Relief because an annexe was connected with the main house internally by an open corridor.
Financial Adviser reports that the the tribunal decided the purchase, which included a main house and annexe, did not count as separate dwellings for the purposes of Multiple Dwellings Relief.
The owners had appealed against HM Revenue & Customs after tax chiefs refused to repay £10,000 of stamp duty.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Premier League urged to scrap PPV after Albion are 'singled out'

Former Scotland striker and pundit Ally McCoist has argued that supporters of teams like West Brom are indeed getting a rough deal when it comes to the selecting of pay-per-view matches .
Albion will head to Fulham this coming Monday for their third consecutive match that is on Sky Sports Box Office , a service that fans can only access if they part with £14.95 .
That quickly adds up to just short of £45 if an Albion fan , still unable to attend matches , wished to access those three Baggies matches against Burnley , Brighton and Fulham on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides have few , if any , Box Office selections - largely because they ’ ve been picked for Sky Sports Premier League or by BT Sport .
McCoist , a host on talkSPORT ’ s breakfast show , understands the anger and frustrations of Albion fans and those who support other clubs who have been particularly affected by the Premier League ’ s decision to stick games behind a paywall .
He hopes that when it is discussed at their next meeting that the call is reviewed .
He 's been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and has been covering the Baggies since 2019 , throughout Slaven Bilic 's promotion winning season .
His aim is to be the voice of the Albion fanbase and discuss the major talking points on a weekly basis - be it transfer related , manager related or match related .
If you 've got something to do with the Albion that you 'd like to get off your chest , or something you 'd like to share or have discussed , please feel free to drop him a line via any of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drop him a message via email at : joseph.chapman @ reachplc.com We 're also on Facebook : Joseph Chapman BM “ We had a West Brom fan on yesterday and he said that clubs like his seem to get singled out more than the big clubs , ” he said .
“ They think they ’ ve been unfairly treated and I sympathise with that .
We ’ re 100 % in agreement and I think they ’ ve shot themselves in the foot .
“ They ’ ve missed the feeling , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think they ’ ve shot themselves in the foot .
“ Let ’ s hope for some fireworks in the next meeting and that they change their mind .
”

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Former Scotland striker and pundit Ally McCoist has argued that supporters of teams like West Brom are indeed getting a rough deal when it comes to the selecting of pay-per-view matches.
Albion will head to Fulham this coming Monday for their third consecutive match that is on Sky Sports Box Office, a service that fans can only access if they part with £14.95.
That quickly adds up to just short of £45 if an Albion fan, still unable to attend matches, wished to access those three Baggies matches against Burnley, Brighton and Fulham on the trot.
Most of the bigger sides have few, if any, Box Office selections - largely because they’ve been picked for Sky Sports Premier League or by BT Sport.
McCoist, a host on talkSPORT’s breakfast show, understands the anger and frustrations of Albion fans and those who support other clubs who have been particularly affected by the Premier League’s decision to stick games behind a paywall.
He hopes that when it is discussed at their next meeting that the call is reviewed.
Our man at Albion: Joseph Chapman Joseph Chapman is BirminghamLive's dedicated Albion reporter. He's been a supporter of the club his whole life and has been covering the Baggies since 2019, throughout Slaven Bilic's promotion winning season. His aim is to be the voice of the Albion fanbase and discuss the major talking points on a weekly basis - be it transfer related, manager related or match related. If you've got something to do with the Albion that you'd like to get off your chest, or something you'd like to share or have discussed, please feel free to drop him a line via any of the following points of contact... Joe is on Twitter: @ChapmanJ92 You can drop him a message via email at: joseph.chapman@reachplc.com We're also on Facebook: Joseph Chapman BM
“We had a West Brom fan on yesterday and he said that clubs like his seem to get singled out more than the big clubs,” he said.
“They think they’ve been unfairly treated and I sympathise with that. We’re 100% in agreement and I think they’ve shot themselves in the foot.
“They’ve missed the feeling, what the public is thinking and I think they’ve shot themselves in the foot.
“Let’s hope for some fireworks in the next meeting and that they change their mind.”


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Police cordon off  woodland after man's body found

Police sealed off part of a popular woodland after a man 's body was discovered .
A number of paramedics were called to Castle Ring on Cannock Chase , near to Holly Hill Road , after a medical emergency at 11.42am on Wednesday , October 28 .
The tragic victim , who has not yet been identified , was treated by ambulance staff at the scene .
But , sadly , despite crews best efforts nothing could be done to save the man , a spokeswoman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said .
Officers from Staffordshire Police were seen guarding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of hours following the sudden death .
His death is not being treated as suspicious at this time .
A spokeswoman for Staffordshire Police said : `` Officers attended an area of Castle Ring this morning following the discovery of a man 's body .
`` At this time the death is not believed to be suspicious . ''
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service , said : `` We were called to a medical emergency on Castle Ring , near to Holly Hill Road , Cannock at 11.42am .
`` Two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scene .
On arrival we discovered one male patient .
`` Sadly , it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene . ''

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Police sealed off part of a popular woodland after a man's body was discovered.
A number of paramedics were called to Castle Ring on Cannock Chase, near to Holly Hill Road, after a medical emergency at 11.42am on Wednesday, October 28.
The tragic victim, who has not yet been identified, was treated by ambulance staff at the scene.
But, sadly, despite crews best efforts nothing could be done to save the man, a spokeswoman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said.
Officers from Staffordshire Police were seen guarding a cordoned off area for a number of hours following the sudden death.
His death is not being treated as suspicious at this time.
A spokeswoman for Staffordshire Police said: "Officers attended an area of Castle Ring this morning following the discovery of a man's body.
"At this time the death is not believed to be suspicious."
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service, said: "We were called to a medical emergency on Castle Ring, near to Holly Hill Road, Cannock at 11.42am.
"Two ambulances and a paramedic officer attended the scene. On arrival we discovered one male patient.
"Sadly, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene."


birminghammail--2020-10-28--The sobering story of Villa's local food bank supporting families

Down-and-out parents desperate to feed their kids , sofa-surfing youngsters , single mums and frail , pot-less pensioners - poverty in and around Aston knows no bounds .
As many as 100 to 150 members of the poverty-stricken community can be queuing up at any one time at the Salvation Army in Aston on Friday afternoons - just 500 yards from Aston Villa 's famous Holte End .
The ongoing pandemic has crippled communities far and wide with almost 50 per cent of households in Aston and Nechells among the worst in the UK with families living off just £37-a-week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we peaked at a 206 per cent increase in people visiting the food bank for help , '' explained Kerry Lenihan , one of the many big-hearted volunteers at the Aston & Nechells Foodbank , a lifeline for hundreds living in and around Villa Park .
`` We 're expecting the numbers to continue to rise well into the winter months as more job losses , funding cuts and essential service halts are to come . ''
The Aston & Nechells Foodbank has been running since 2011 with the charity hosting donation days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on three respective match-days throughout Villa 's previous seasons .
That , of course , has abruptly stopped due to the pandemic with supporters remaining locked out of Villa Park - but that 's not stopped the club 's selfless fans who 've found a new avenue to support the club 's local food bank .
`` We 've had almost £3,500 come in in online donations since last week , '' Kerry added , `` Villa fans have been getting behind not feeding the greed and feeding the need and have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa to us instead which has been overwhelming . ''
A quick scour of the donation page says as much too with a flurry of 'charity not PPV ' messages from Villa 's brilliant supporters who 've donated everything from £15 to £700 .
The Aston & Nechells Foodbank 's relationship with the Villa faithful initially took off back in 2017 off the back of Kerry looking to mirror what the likes of Everton , Liverpool and Newcastle United have done to help in their communities .
In previous years , Villa left-back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during afternoons while , more recently , former club captain James Chester got right behind Kerry and the team and donated his support to the local food bank situated just yards from Villa Park .
`` James Chester , what a lovely chap he is , '' Kerry added .
`` He pushed the message out for us recently and we got a load of donations off the back of it .
We 've had Neil Taylor down here before helping out as well , it really means a lot . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locations : Monday 's at St Matthew 's Church in Nechells ( 12pm-2.30pm ) ; Wednesday 's at Ward End Elim Church ( 1pm-3pm ) and The Salvation Army in Aston on Friday 's ( 12.30pm-2.30pm ) , with the latter proving by far the busier ahead of weekends .
The pandemic , though , has created uncertainty with Aston & Nechells Foodbank having to move all of their donated supplies to two temporary sites either side of Villa Park : Aston Parish Church on Witton Lane and Birchfield Gospel Hall on Trinity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' and is in desperate need to find a new warehouse location within the B6 , B7 and B8 postcodes to store food and supplies prior to distributing them .
If you can help you can reach out HERE .
`` We have all walks of life come to see us for help , '' Kerry told us .
`` From two loving parents who are currently out of work due to the pandemic with as many as 10 mouths to feed at home to people who count on us as their last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` A lot come in feeling ashamed but we tell them we 're not here to judge , we 're here to help and our aim is to find the root cause of the problem and , hopefully , not see them again or as often .
That 's what we want .
We will never turn away hungry people and are happy to assist anyone struggling with food poverty .
`` The areas we principally serve have some of the highest rates of deprivation in the country .
We do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Throughout lockdown 52 per cent of people visiting a food bank are first-time users , according to our latest figures .
`` We 're expecting an average of six emergency food parcels to be given out every minute this winter .
We have had people who have been in fairly senior positions lose their jobs and struggle to balance their core housing , food and fuel needs .
`` We have had single mothers who are escaping domestic abuse for a better life have to start from nothing and visit us to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had people who have faced unforeseen expenses such as car breakdowns and home repairs .
We have had families who have been flooded or their property involved in a fire and are now living in temporary accommodation or hotel rooms .
`` We have older people who are not entitled to state pensions or who have lost their winter fuel benefits .
We have people who are awaiting universal credit payments to come in , or who have been sanctioned , or who have lost their housing benefit temporarily due to change of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reasons why someone might visit a food bank and we will happily support anyone in need of food . ''
As for Kerry and the team at the Aston & Nechells Foodbank they remain as determined as ever to help people and families who need it most in the current climate .
So what about Marcus Rashford 's free school meals campaign ?
`` What an inspiration , '' Kerry said with a big smile .
`` He 's brought the whole nation together , he 's been incredible - a true role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
To donate your support to the Aston & Nechells Foodbank click HERE .
You can also email info @ astonnechells.foodbank.org.uk .

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Down-and-out parents desperate to feed their kids, sofa-surfing youngsters, single mums and frail, pot-less pensioners - poverty in and around Aston knows no bounds.
As many as 100 to 150 members of the poverty-stricken community can be queuing up at any one time at the Salvation Army in Aston on Friday afternoons - just 500 yards from Aston Villa's famous Holte End.
The ongoing pandemic has crippled communities far and wide with almost 50 per cent of households in Aston and Nechells among the worst in the UK with families living off just £37-a-week on average.
"Throughout the lockdown we peaked at a 206 per cent increase in people visiting the food bank for help," explained Kerry Lenihan, one of the many big-hearted volunteers at the Aston & Nechells Foodbank, a lifeline for hundreds living in and around Villa Park.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"We're expecting the numbers to continue to rise well into the winter months as more job losses, funding cuts and essential service halts are to come."
The Aston & Nechells Foodbank has been running since 2011 with the charity hosting donation days in the autumn, winter and spring on three respective match-days throughout Villa's previous seasons. That, of course, has abruptly stopped due to the pandemic with supporters remaining locked out of Villa Park - but that's not stopped the club's selfless fans who've found a new avenue to support the club's local food bank.
"We've had almost £3,500 come in in online donations since last week," Kerry added, "Villa fans have been getting behind not feeding the greed and feeding the need and have been donating the box office charges to watch Villa to us instead which has been overwhelming."
A quick scour of the donation page says as much too with a flurry of 'charity not PPV' messages from Villa's brilliant supporters who've donated everything from £15 to £700.
The Aston & Nechells Foodbank's relationship with the Villa faithful initially took off back in 2017 off the back of Kerry looking to mirror what the likes of Everton, Liverpool and Newcastle United have done to help in their communities.
In previous years, Villa left-back Neil Taylor has helped to distribute food during afternoons while, more recently, former club captain James Chester got right behind Kerry and the team and donated his support to the local food bank situated just yards from Villa Park.
"James Chester, what a lovely chap he is," Kerry added. "He pushed the message out for us recently and we got a load of donations off the back of it. We've had Neil Taylor down here before helping out as well, it really means a lot."
The food bank is currently split between three locations: Monday's at St Matthew's Church in Nechells (12pm-2.30pm); Wednesday's at Ward End Elim Church (1pm-3pm) and The Salvation Army in Aston on Friday's (12.30pm-2.30pm), with the latter proving by far the busier ahead of weekends.
The pandemic, though, has created uncertainty with Aston & Nechells Foodbank having to move all of their donated supplies to two temporary sites either side of Villa Park: Aston Parish Church on Witton Lane and Birchfield Gospel Hall on Trinity Road.
The charity is currently 'homeless' and is in desperate need to find a new warehouse location within the B6, B7 and B8 postcodes to store food and supplies prior to distributing them. If you can help you can reach out HERE.
"We have all walks of life come to see us for help," Kerry told us. "From two loving parents who are currently out of work due to the pandemic with as many as 10 mouths to feed at home to people who count on us as their last hope without a home to cook in.
"A lot come in feeling ashamed but we tell them we're not here to judge, we're here to help and our aim is to find the root cause of the problem and, hopefully, not see them again or as often. That's what we want. We will never turn away hungry people and are happy to assist anyone struggling with food poverty.
"The areas we principally serve have some of the highest rates of deprivation in the country. We do not have a standard food bank user either. Throughout lockdown 52 per cent of people visiting a food bank are first-time users, according to our latest figures.
"We're expecting an average of six emergency food parcels to be given out every minute this winter. We have had people who have been in fairly senior positions lose their jobs and struggle to balance their core housing, food and fuel needs.
"We have had single mothers who are escaping domestic abuse for a better life have to start from nothing and visit us to feed their children.
"We have had people who have faced unforeseen expenses such as car breakdowns and home repairs. We have had families who have been flooded or their property involved in a fire and are now living in temporary accommodation or hotel rooms.
"We have older people who are not entitled to state pensions or who have lost their winter fuel benefits. We have people who are awaiting universal credit payments to come in, or who have been sanctioned, or who have lost their housing benefit temporarily due to change of address.
"There are hundreds of reasons why someone might visit a food bank and we will happily support anyone in need of food."
As for Kerry and the team at the Aston & Nechells Foodbank they remain as determined as ever to help people and families who need it most in the current climate.
So what about Marcus Rashford's free school meals campaign? "What an inspiration," Kerry said with a big smile. "He's brought the whole nation together, he's been incredible - a true role model in every sense of the word."
To donate your support to the Aston & Nechells Foodbank click HERE. You can also email info@astonnechells.foodbank.org.uk.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Birmingham drug dealers jailed after being rumbled with 99 wraps of heroin

A pair of Birmingham drug dealers have been jailed having been caught peddling heroin in Northamptonshire .
Omar Farooq and Kieran Sargeant were caught by police in a park in Kettering , in Northants .
The duo , aged 27 and 31 respectively , were rumbled by police following a tip-off on September 28 .
They have now been caged for their exploits , having been caught with hundreds of pounds in money and a knife after being stopped .
Their VW Jetta was stopped by cops , who found 99 wraps of heroin , £650 cash and a six-inch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , reports Farooq said he had gone to Kettering to visit some girls and claimed the knife , which police found in the driver 's door , was needed to cut up his food .
At a magistrates court appearance earlier this month both men had denied the crime .
But today , at Northampton Crown Court , they pleaded guilty via videolink from HMP Peterborough to a charge of class A possession with intent to supply .
Defence barrister Zaheer Afzal said Farooq , of Cherrywood Road , Birmingham , who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for dealing class a drugs , had been complying with probation , but the effects of the pandemic had led him back to street dealing .
He said : `` The offence arose as a result of the financial crisis that Mr Farooq became embroiled in , resulting in him resorting to dealing class A drugs , something which he is totally ashamed of . ''
Sargeant 's defence counsel Paul Webb told Recorder Jacob Hallam QC that his client , who has a number of previous convictions for more minor offences , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was suggested he could increase his income .
He said Farooq was an expectant father and was also the sole carer for his grandmother .
He said : `` He has caused great upset for other people that is just as painful for him as any sentence will be . ''
An appeal by Farooq 's barrister to lessen the jail term due to the pandemic and a number of deaths in prison , was dismissed by the judge who did however say he would give a 30 percent discount for Farooq and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Mears Drive , Birmingham , due to their guilty pleas .
Sentencing the men , Recorder Hallam QC said their actions of dealing in a residential area caused much anguish and heartache for those who were addicted to the drug .
Farooq was given a five-year jail term for the drug offence and an eight month sentence ( which will run concurrently ) for the knife possession .
Sargeant was sentenced to three years and nine months .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Sarah Ward, James Rodger)

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A pair of Birmingham drug dealers have been jailed having been caught peddling heroin in Northamptonshire.
Omar Farooq and Kieran Sargeant were caught by police in a park in Kettering, in Northants.
The duo, aged 27 and 31 respectively, were rumbled by police following a tip-off on September 28.
They have now been caged for their exploits, having been caught with hundreds of pounds in money and a knife after being stopped.
Their VW Jetta was stopped by cops, who found 99 wraps of heroin, £650 cash and a six-inch blade.
NorthantsLive, our sister title, reports Farooq said he had gone to Kettering to visit some girls and claimed the knife, which police found in the driver's door, was needed to cut up his food.
At a magistrates court appearance earlier this month both men had denied the crime.
But today, at Northampton Crown Court, they pleaded guilty via videolink from HMP Peterborough to a charge of class A possession with intent to supply.
Farooq also admitted possession of a blade.
Farooq was given a five-year jail term for the drug offence and an eight month sentence (which will run concurrently) for the knife possession. Sargeant was sentenced to three years and nine months.
Defence barrister Zaheer Afzal said Farooq, of Cherrywood Road, Birmingham, who was out on licence for a previous conviction for dealing class a drugs, had been complying with probation, but the effects of the pandemic had led him back to street dealing.
He said: "The offence arose as a result of the financial crisis that Mr Farooq became embroiled in, resulting in him resorting to dealing class A drugs, something which he is totally ashamed of."
Sargeant's defence counsel Paul Webb told Recorder Jacob Hallam QC that his client, who has a number of previous convictions for more minor offences, had become involved with Farooq after it was suggested he could increase his income.
He said Farooq was an expectant father and was also the sole carer for his grandmother.
He said: "He has caused great upset for other people that is just as painful for him as any sentence will be."
An appeal by Farooq's barrister to lessen the jail term due to the pandemic and a number of deaths in prison, was dismissed by the judge who did however say he would give a 30 percent discount for Farooq and a 25 percent discount for Sargeant, of Mears Drive, Birmingham, due to their guilty pleas.
Sentencing the men, Recorder Hallam QC said their actions of dealing in a residential area caused much anguish and heartache for those who were addicted to the drug.
Farooq was given a five-year jail term for the drug offence and an eight month sentence (which will run concurrently) for the knife possession. Sargeant was sentenced to three years and nine months.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Latest on library services - what's now open and what's shut

A gradual reopening of Solihull libraries has been taking place in stages , after Covid forced the total closure of sites back in March .
A few weeks ago , a senior councillor said their return would require `` baby steps '' to ensure staff and visitors were safe .
This has meant certain activities have been unable to resume and a few buildings - deemed too small to allow social distancing - are still shuttered up .
With two more branche shaving started to offer services again earlier this month , the Local Democracy Reporting Service has pulled together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and what 's still shut .
Solihull 's flagship library , in the town centre , started to welcome visitors back inside from September 7 .
There is a 25-person limit on people allowed into the facility at any one time , with warnings there could be a wait at busier times .
As with all libraries , locally and nationwide , face coverings are compulsory for everyone without a valid exemption .
Services include 30 minutes `` grab and go '' for browsing , PC access for up to 45 minutes ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but pre-booking preferred ) , library joining and renewal/replacement of library cards .
Appointments for heritage and reference services can be made , three days in advance , by contacting heritage @ solihull.gov.uk or 0121 704 6965 .
Another of Solihull 's `` big three '' libraries , this is also now open to the public .
A grab and go system is in place in line with The Core , along with PC access for up to 45 minutes ( some walk-in slots might be available , but pre-booking preferred ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These five branch libraries - smaller sites in Solihull 's villages and suburbs - are welcoming visitors once again .
There are limits on numbers and customers are advised they may have to wait at busier times .
This particular branch is currently closed for refurbishment work .
The £21,000 project was due to finish at the end of October but has been delayed because of Covid-19 and is now expected to be completed at the end of November .
Neither site is currently open for browsing , but people can make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collect scheme .
This service , open to all Solihull library card holders , allows people to fill out a form with their requests and they will then be sent a message when items are ready to be picked up .
Further details and the online form can be found here .
Cllr David Cole had recently asked if there was any update on Kingshurst , saying the facility was much-missed .
`` Some of the residents of Kingshurst - particularly our elderly ones - are asking when it 's going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bus since March and the nearest one is Chelmsley . ''
Cllr Alison Rolf , cabinet member for stronger and safer communities , said safety assessments were being carried out at individual sites as part of the `` gradual '' return .
Although a recent bulletin seemed to suggest those which remain closed could prove problematic because their size or design made sticking to social distancing rules difficult .
The LDRS has contacted the local authority for an update on any plans to restore services at these locations .
Martyn Sargeant , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ library services , told a meeting this week that restrictions were necessary , but there had been some encouraging comments from users .
`` Unfortunately that is just the reality of where we are - not just libraries , but pretty much everywhere you go at the moment .
`` I have to say the feedback at The Core is excellent from our customers ; about the fact that they feel safe when they come in , they feel it 's a positive environment , the restrictions are explained to them ... '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knock as lockdown rules had once again tightened , suggesting that visitor numbers to The Core 's cafe had dropped off since a ban on household mixing came into force .
Full details of current library services and opening hours for individual sites are available on the council website .

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A gradual reopening of Solihull libraries has been taking place in stages, after Covid forced the total closure of sites back in March.
A few weeks ago, a senior councillor said their return would require "baby steps" to ensure staff and visitors were safe.
This has meant certain activities have been unable to resume and a few buildings - deemed too small to allow social distancing - are still shuttered up.
With two more branche shaving started to offer services again earlier this month, the Local Democracy Reporting Service has pulled together a summary of what's now open and what's still shut.
The Core
Solihull's flagship library, in the town centre, started to welcome visitors back inside from September 7.
There is a 25-person limit on people allowed into the facility at any one time, with warnings there could be a wait at busier times.
As with all libraries, locally and nationwide, face coverings are compulsory for everyone without a valid exemption.
Services include 30 minutes "grab and go" for browsing, PC access for up to 45 minutes (some walk-in slots might be available, but pre-booking preferred), library joining and renewal/replacement of library cards.
Appointments for heritage and reference services can be made, three days in advance, by contacting heritage@solihull.gov.uk or 0121 704 6965.
(Image: Graham Young)
Chelmsley Wood
Another of Solihull's "big three" libraries, this is also now open to the public.
A grab and go system is in place in line with The Core, along with PC access for up to 45 minutes (some walk-in slots might be available, but pre-booking preferred), library joining and renewal/replacement of library cards.
Balsall Common, Castle Bromwich, Dickens Heath, Hobs Moat, Knowle
These five branch libraries - smaller sites in Solihull's villages and suburbs - are welcoming visitors once again.
There are limits on numbers and customers are advised they may have to wait at busier times.
Olton
This particular branch is currently closed for refurbishment work.
The £21,000 project was due to finish at the end of October but has been delayed because of Covid-19 and is now expected to be completed at the end of November.
Shirley and Meriden
Neither site is currently open for browsing, but people can make use of the council's click and collect scheme.
This service, open to all Solihull library card holders, allows people to fill out a form with their requests and they will then be sent a message when items are ready to be picked up.
Further details and the online form can be found here.
(Image: Google Street View)
Hampton-in-Arden, Kingshurst and Marston Green
Cllr David Cole had recently asked if there was any update on Kingshurst, saying the facility was much-missed.
"Some of the residents of Kingshurst - particularly our elderly ones - are asking when it's going to be open because they haven't been on a bus since March and the nearest one is Chelmsley."
Cllr Alison Rolf, cabinet member for stronger and safer communities, said safety assessments were being carried out at individual sites as part of the "gradual" return.
Although a recent bulletin seemed to suggest those which remain closed could prove problematic because their size or design made sticking to social distancing rules difficult.
The LDRS has contacted the local authority for an update on any plans to restore services at these locations.
Martyn Sargeant, the council's head of customer and library services, told a meeting this week that restrictions were necessary, but there had been some encouraging comments from users.
"Unfortunately that is just the reality of where we are - not just libraries, but pretty much everywhere you go at the moment.
"I have to say the feedback at The Core is excellent from our customers; about the fact that they feel safe when they come in, they feel it's a positive environment, the restrictions are explained to them..."
Although he admitted footfall had taken a knock as lockdown rules had once again tightened, suggesting that visitor numbers to The Core's cafe had dropped off since a ban on household mixing came into force.
Full details of current library services and opening hours for individual sites are available on the council website.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Aston Villa beat West Brom in friendly as strong sides feature

Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion played out a friendly match behind closed doors this afternoon at the Lions ’ Bodymoor Heath training complex .
It ’ s understood that the hosts ran out 3-1 winners against their West Midlands and Premier League rivals .
BirminghamLive has been told that two strong sides got extra minutes under their belt in between top flight fixtures and , for what it ’ s worth , Villa were victorious in the fitness exercise .
Neil Taylor , Bertrand Traore and Keinan Davis were the goalscorers in claret and blue .
All of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa ’ s squad currently and are awaiting an opportunity to break into Dean Smith ’ s rather settled starting line-up at the moment .
He has 2019 summer signing Matt Targett at left-back , and Trezeguet and Ollie Watkins further upfield where Traore and Davis are the next cabs off the attacking rank .
For the Baggies , it was the lesser spotted striker Charlie Austin who netted in Albion ’ s response .
Austin has found himself further down the forward pecking order this summer after the arrival of Karlan Grant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a centre forward by Slaven Bilic .
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 .
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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 He netted a penalty in the EFL Cup shoot-out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ featured against Harrogate Town in the round prior , this season .
Villa ’ s first team entertain fellow high fliers Southampton at Villa Park this coming Sunday , while Albion have a key meeting with fellow promoted outfit and the division ’ s basement club Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday evening .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Joseph Chapman, Ashley Preece)

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Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion played out a friendly match behind closed doors this afternoon at the Lions’ Bodymoor Heath training complex.
It’s understood that the hosts ran out 3-1 winners against their West Midlands and Premier League rivals.
BirminghamLive has been told that two strong sides got extra minutes under their belt in between top flight fixtures and, for what it’s worth, Villa were victorious in the fitness exercise.
Neil Taylor, Bertrand Traore and Keinan Davis were the goalscorers in claret and blue. All of the above are waiting in the wings of Villa’s squad currently and are awaiting an opportunity to break into Dean Smith’s rather settled starting line-up at the moment.
He has 2019 summer signing Matt Targett at left-back, and Trezeguet and Ollie Watkins further upfield where Traore and Davis are the next cabs off the attacking rank.
For the Baggies, it was the lesser spotted striker Charlie Austin who netted in Albion’s response.
Austin has found himself further down the forward pecking order this summer after the arrival of Karlan Grant and the classing of Callum Robinson as a centre forward by Slaven Bilic.
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
He netted a penalty in the EFL Cup shoot-out defeat to Brentford but had only previously featured against Harrogate Town in the round prior, this season.
Villa’s first team entertain fellow high fliers Southampton at Villa Park this coming Sunday, while Albion have a key meeting with fellow promoted outfit and the division’s basement club Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday evening.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--EFL slam govt for 'double standards' as Blues fans wait to return

Rick Parry has hit out at the government for their double standards and lack of support for EFL clubs in a letter sent to Secretary of State for Culture , Media and Sport , Oliver Dowden .
Clubs across the Football League are facing a major cash crisis due to the effect of COVID-19 and playing matches behind closed doors .
Birmingham City , like many of their Championship rivals are naturally feeling the pinch in the absence of the thousands of Bluenoses who would otherwise be making their way to St Andrew ’ s every fortnight , or otherwise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opposing stadiums .
Indeed boss Aitor Karanka , and a host of summer signings , are yet to experience B9 with home fans to roar their team on from the stands .
Despite calls for a reduced capacity of supporters to be allowed back into grounds , the government remains adamant that will not be the case this year , with all pilot events halted due to a second wave of COVID-19 cases .
Yet , clubs are still permitted to allow fans into grounds to watch matches in their executive suites , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Equally , events such as the Royal Variety Performance will take place next month in front of a crowd , whilst the government has provided £1.5million in a rescue package towards arts .
With negotiations over a bail-out from the Premier League , Parry has slammed the government and said he will “ never forgive them ” if clubs go to the wall .
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest transfer news and comment Why should you sign up ?
In our daily Birmingham City bulletin , we 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 In a letter to Dowden , seen by The Times , Parry said : “ While football grounds in Rochdale , Grimsby , Mansfield and Carlisle might seem an awful long way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are nonetheless equally important parts of our nation ’ s heritage .
“ It must have dawned on you that it is deeply unfair that cultural institutions like these are receiving government hand-outs while also being able to generate revenues by admitting the paying public .
“ For some reason , football is being regarded as a peculiarly undeserving case and , as a result , many of our clubs have now reached the conclusion that we are at best being ignored by a government that doesn ’ t understand our national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
“ Ultimately , the football public will judge the performance of this Conservative government on how many football clubs remain in business once the pandemic finally subsides .
Certainly , those communities that are inextricably linked to their local team will never forgive it if their beloved football clubs are driven into extinction.
” Dowden has previously insisted that the 20 Premier League clubs must support the 72 in the EFL , who say they need £250 million to survive a season without fans .
So far the top flight has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League One and League Two , plus another £30 million in loans as an emergency fund .
“ Discussions with the Premier League continue , however , it is clear that top-flight clubs are also feeling the effects of the pandemic , particularly the loss of gate revenue , and it may not be in a position to provide the level of support that is required .
“ Therefore , the onus remains on you to remedy the situation rather than thinking of it as ‘ job done ’ .
After all , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preventing fans from going to games not the Premier League .
“ EFL clubs , almost all of them the social cornerstone of the towns and cities they bear the names of , stand on the brink of a financial precipice .
“ The government ’ s response to the crisis that is engulfing football is particularly galling when compared with the comparative generosity being extended to other areas of your portfolio — for example , the £1.5 billion funding package to the arts sector alone .
“ Yet at the same time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and its clubs have to play behind closed doors .
I am sure you can understand how this disparity in approach must look to football fans in constituencies across the country .
“ In any event , clubs will soon begin defaulting on these payments and the government would be better off managing this situation rather than having it land on its toes .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Joseph Chapman, Elliott Jackson)

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Rick Parry has hit out at the government for their double standards and lack of support for EFL clubs in a letter sent to Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Oliver Dowden.
Clubs across the Football League are facing a major cash crisis due to the effect of COVID-19 and playing matches behind closed doors.
Birmingham City, like many of their Championship rivals are naturally feeling the pinch in the absence of the thousands of Bluenoses who would otherwise be making their way to St Andrew’s every fortnight, or otherwise following Blues around the country at various opposing stadiums.
Indeed boss Aitor Karanka, and a host of summer signings, are yet to experience B9 with home fans to roar their team on from the stands.
Despite calls for a reduced capacity of supporters to be allowed back into grounds, the government remains adamant that will not be the case this year, with all pilot events halted due to a second wave of COVID-19 cases.
Yet, clubs are still permitted to allow fans into grounds to watch matches in their executive suites, despite the match taking place outside.
Equally, events such as the Royal Variety Performance will take place next month in front of a crowd, whilst the government has provided £1.5million in a rescue package towards arts.
With negotiations over a bail-out from the Premier League, Parry has slammed the government and said he will “never forgive them” if clubs go to the wall.
Sign up to our Birmingham City newsletter for the latest news and comment Why should you sign up? In our daily Birmingham City 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
In a letter to Dowden, seen by The Times, Parry said: “While football grounds in Rochdale, Grimsby, Mansfield and Carlisle might seem an awful long way from Glyndebourne or the Royal Ballet, they are nonetheless equally important parts of our nation’s heritage.
“It must have dawned on you that it is deeply unfair that cultural institutions like these are receiving government hand-outs while also being able to generate revenues by admitting the paying public.
“For some reason, football is being regarded as a peculiarly undeserving case and, as a result, many of our clubs have now reached the conclusion that we are at best being ignored by a government that doesn’t understand our national sport and at worst being victimised by it.
“Ultimately, the football public will judge the performance of this Conservative government on how many football clubs remain in business once the pandemic finally subsides. Certainly, those communities that are inextricably linked to their local team will never forgive it if their beloved football clubs are driven into extinction.”
(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)
Dowden has previously insisted that the 20 Premier League clubs must support the 72 in the EFL, who say they need £250 million to survive a season without fans. So far the top flight has only offered £20 million to clubs in League One and League Two, plus another £30 million in loans as an emergency fund.
“Discussions with the Premier League continue, however, it is clear that top-flight clubs are also feeling the effects of the pandemic, particularly the loss of gate revenue, and it may not be in a position to provide the level of support that is required.
“Therefore, the onus remains on you to remedy the situation rather than thinking of it as ‘job done’. After all, it is the government that is currently preventing fans from going to games not the Premier League.
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“EFL clubs, almost all of them the social cornerstone of the towns and cities they bear the names of, stand on the brink of a financial precipice.
“The government’s response to the crisis that is engulfing football is particularly galling when compared with the comparative generosity being extended to other areas of your portfolio — for example, the £1.5 billion funding package to the arts sector alone.
“Yet at the same time, football is told to support itself and its clubs have to play behind closed doors. I am sure you can understand how this disparity in approach must look to football fans in constituencies across the country.
“In any event, clubs will soon begin defaulting on these payments and the government would be better off managing this situation rather than having it land on its toes.”


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Haunted dolls and ghosts on the M6 - the spooky wonders of the Black Country

Things are about to go bump in the night with Halloween just around the corner .
Trick or treating might be off the cards on October 31 but the Black Country has some spooky stories you can share with your loved ones - if you dare .
From a haunted doll collector to a psychic who spoke to a dead horse , here 's a round-up of the region 's creepiest tales .
The legend of the Grey Lady The Grey Lady has frequented Dudley Castle for centuries and is said to be the spirit of Dorothy Beaumont , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , shortly after childbirth .
Her dying wishes were for her to be buried next to her child and for her husband to be at her funeral .
However , neither of those were granted so she is condemned to wander the castle and its grounds .
Her favourite haunts are the castle keep and Grey Lady Tavern , a pub named after her .
Birmingham couple Dean and Amy Harper believe they captured a chilling image of what could be The Grey Lady at Dudley Castle in August 2014 .
In the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appear to be a grey gown , can be seen standing in the castle .
At the time , Nick Duffy from the West Midlands Ghost Club , said : “ It is a nice photograph .
It is a credible photograph in comparison to a lot you do see .
Time and again , we have been sent blatantly faked photographs.
” Meet the psychic who conjured a dead horse in her dining room From ghosts on staircases to conjuring up a dead horse and gun-toting spirit in her dining room - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all .
While some think she has a true psychic gift , others have called her a charlatan but the 60-year-old takes it all in her stride .
She 'delivers messages and images from the other side ' from her home in Kingswinford and said she 's often left as `` bewildered and surprised '' by what she sees as her clients are .
`` I ’ ve always known I was strange , '' she said .
`` When I was a child , about seven or eight , I used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and spend the day in the graveyard , I liked it there with all the people .
`` I also used to sleepwalk a lot but it stopped when I was 12 .
I used to go down the stairs but I could never get back up because there were three children stood on the top step and they wouldn ’ t let me pass .
They did n't disappear until I was older than them .
`` At that age , you don ’ t quite realise but everyone has these capabilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ section of your mind . ''
Explaining her 'method ' , Helena said : `` I ’ m a photographic reader .
It ’ s a bit like phoning them for me .
But I either make contact or I don ’ t .
“ I always stand up for readings as I feel more grounded .
I had this one experience where a lady came to me and sat down and normally , spirits step to my left but this guy was by the window and wouldn ’ t look at me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but I feel them , how they look , how they sound .
“ The guy was her ex husband – for good reason - and I said ‘ he won ’ t make eye contact at all , he ’ s looking down as if he feels guilty ’ and she said ‘ yes , I would imagine ’ .
I said he ’ s ’ holding a gun in his hand ’ and she nearly went white , she was in an abusive relationship and he would have that in real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Another reading saw a dead horse appear in my dining room . ''
Part of the motorway has existed for nearly two thousand years , having been used by Roman soldiers during the Roman occupation of England in 55 BC , so it ’ s no wonder the M6 boasts its fair share of spooks .
It ’ s been reported that motorists driving on the M6 have witnessed unusual phenomena , like Roman soldiers marching across the road .
Some people have claimed they have seen a set of eyes peaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'My haunted dolls help my son with his homework' You either love porcelain dolls or they freak you out , but imagine collecting them because they are spooky .
Jayne Wright , from Dudley , collects dolls which she believes are 'haunted ' .
The 47-year-old purchases the creepy dolls online along with items which may conjure up the spirits .
Speaking to BlackCountryLive , Jayne said : `` I adopted them , as we call it , from the Supernatural Sisters , who attach the spirits to the dolls .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me , we have had a few things happen in the house , and the K2 meter has lit up .
`` I took one to a seance night at the Station Hotel and she was very active then but sometimes it can take ages for anything to happen , but it depends on if they want to communicate with you . ''
The mum-of-three , who has been collecting the dolls for a year , has dedicated a corner of her home to her 13 dolls and dubbed it the 'haunted corner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no paranormal activity going on in her home until the dolls were introduced and insists all the dolls have 'positive energy ' attached to them .
However , sage is kept in the house 'just in case ' , along with a protection ring and pendent - from the sisters - to help when communicating with the dolls .
`` There 's been footsteps in the hall and walking across the landing and when no one was out there .
I 've heard crying and children laughing .
`` One night I woke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head , I even rubbed my eyes but it was still there .
I have since found out that its was for my protection , '' she claims .
Jayne says that she can pin point which doll is 'active ' as they all have something different .
She claims that one spirit was a teacher and 'came to life ' when her son was doing his homework .
She said : `` We walking into the living room the one day and Jaxson the clown was swinging on his own .
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there one night and he shouted in 'mom Jaxson is swinging again ' , but Jaxson was a teacher , so I said he is there to help you with your homework . ''
The swings at Netherton park are 'haunted ' you know - and there 's 'evidence ' .
A haunting photo , taken at the park in September 2019 appears to show a 'ghost ' on a swing .
It was posted to the Facebook page Spotted : Netherton , with the following message : `` I was just walking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the swing was moving but no one was around .
`` I took a photo and absolutely pooped myself .
What do u all think ?
It looks like a little girl to me . ''
The post quickly clocked up more than 1,200 comments , likes and shares as people debated whether or not it was the real deal .
The snap was taken by a Dudley dad Dean Thomas , who had taken his nine-year-old daughter Freya to the park .
He told Black Country Live : `` I took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that 's how it came out .
I sent it to my missus and she put it on Spotted Netherton and it just went mad . ''
This grisly murder has been the basis of many a child 's nightmare for decades .
In 1943 , the body of a woman was found stuffed inside a hollow tree - tragically , she has never been officially identified and the case is now cold .
It all began in when four boys were playing in Hagley Woods , Worcestershire .
After deciding to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the remains of a woman inside the hollow wych elm .
At first they were all too traumatised to tell anyone .
But eventually the youngest lad confided in his parents who rang the police .
The discovery has led to sporadic outbreaks of graffiti in the area , asking 'Who put Bella in the Wych Elm ? '
.
The first appeared six months after the body was found .
But the more pertinent question is , who was Bella ?
Painstaking detective and forensic work revealed the victim was aged around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a child .
The murder was ritualistic and had all the hallmarks of a Satanic ceremony and never been identified after her skull was lost and her killer - who forced a piece of taffeta cloth in her mouth and severed one of her hands – has never been brought to justice .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Regen, Kelly Ashmore)

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Things are about to go bump in the night with Halloween just around the corner.
Trick or treating might be off the cards on October 31 but the Black Country has some spooky stories you can share with your loved ones - if you dare.
From a haunted doll collector to a psychic who spoke to a dead horse, here's a round-up of the region's creepiest tales.
The legend of the Grey Lady
The Grey Lady has frequented Dudley Castle for centuries and is said to be the spirit of Dorothy Beaumont, who tragically died, along with her baby, shortly after childbirth.
Her dying wishes were for her to be buried next to her child and for her husband to be at her funeral.
However, neither of those were granted so she is condemned to wander the castle and its grounds. Her favourite haunts are the castle keep and Grey Lady Tavern, a pub named after her.
Birmingham couple Dean and Amy Harper believe they captured a chilling image of what could be The Grey Lady at Dudley Castle in August 2014.
In the picture, a feminine figure in what appear to be a grey gown, can be seen standing in the castle.
At the time, Nick Duffy from the West Midlands Ghost Club, said: “It is a nice photograph. It is a credible photograph in comparison to a lot you do see. Time and again, we have been sent blatantly faked photographs.”
Meet the psychic who conjured a dead horse in her dining room
From ghosts on staircases to conjuring up a dead horse and gun-toting spirit in her dining room - Helena Stone claims to have seen it all.
While some think she has a true psychic gift, others have called her a charlatan but the 60-year-old takes it all in her stride.
She 'delivers messages and images from the other side' from her home in Kingswinford and said she's often left as "bewildered and surprised" by what she sees as her clients are.
(Image: Helena Stone)
"I’ve always known I was strange," she said.
"When I was a child, about seven or eight, I used to go to Wordsley Church on my own and spend the day in the graveyard, I liked it there with all the people.
"I also used to sleepwalk a lot but it stopped when I was 12. I used to go down the stairs but I could never get back up because there were three children stood on the top step and they wouldn’t let me pass. They didn't disappear until I was older than them.
"At that age, you don’t quite realise but everyone has these capabilities – you just need to open that section of your mind."
Explaining her 'method', Helena said: "I’m a photographic reader. It’s a bit like phoning them for me. But I either make contact or I don’t.
“I always stand up for readings as I feel more grounded. I had this one experience where a lady came to me and sat down and normally, spirits step to my left but this guy was by the window and wouldn’t look at me. I can’t see them but I feel them, how they look, how they sound.
“The guy was her ex husband – for good reason - and I said ‘he won’t make eye contact at all, he’s looking down as if he feels guilty’ and she said ‘yes, I would imagine’. I said he’s’ holding a gun in his hand’ and she nearly went white, she was in an abusive relationship and he would have that in real life in front of her face.
“Another reading saw a dead horse appear in my dining room."
M6 motorway
Part of the motorway has existed for nearly two thousand years, having been used by Roman soldiers during the Roman occupation of England in 55 BC, so it’s no wonder the M6 boasts its fair share of spooks.
It’s been reported that motorists driving on the M6 have witnessed unusual phenomena, like Roman soldiers marching across the road. Some people have claimed they have seen a set of eyes peaking at them from behind bushes too.
'My haunted dolls help my son with his homework'
You either love porcelain dolls or they freak you out, but imagine collecting them because they are spooky.
Jayne Wright, from Dudley, collects dolls which she believes are 'haunted'.
The 47-year-old purchases the creepy dolls online along with items which may conjure up the spirits.
(Image: Hand out)
Speaking to BlackCountryLive, Jayne said: "I adopted them, as we call it, from the Supernatural Sisters, who attach the spirits to the dolls.
"I started buying the dolls as they fascinate me, we have had a few things happen in the house, and the K2 meter has lit up.
"I took one to a seance night at the Station Hotel and she was very active then but sometimes it can take ages for anything to happen, but it depends on if they want to communicate with you."
The mum-of-three, who has been collecting the dolls for a year, has dedicated a corner of her home to her 13 dolls and dubbed it the 'haunted corner'.
The chef claims there was no paranormal activity going on in her home until the dolls were introduced and insists all the dolls have 'positive energy' attached to them.
However, sage is kept in the house 'just in case', along with a protection ring and pendent - from the sisters - to help when communicating with the dolls.
"There's been footsteps in the hall and walking across the landing and when no one was out there. I've heard crying and children laughing.
"One night I woke up and I saw a wolf's head, I even rubbed my eyes but it was still there. I have since found out that its was for my protection," she claims.
Jayne says that she can pin point which doll is 'active' as they all have something different. She claims that one spirit was a teacher and 'came to life' when her son was doing his homework.
She said: "We walking into the living room the one day and Jaxson the clown was swinging on his own. My son Harry was doing his homework in there one night and he shouted in 'mom Jaxson is swinging again', but Jaxson was a teacher, so I said he is there to help you with your homework."
The Netherton Park ghost
The swings at Netherton park are 'haunted' you know - and there's 'evidence'.
A haunting photo, taken at the park in September 2019 appears to show a 'ghost' on a swing. It was posted to the Facebook page Spotted: Netherton , with the following message: "I was just walking my dog across Netherton Park and noticed that the swing was moving but no one was around.
(Image: Dean Thomas)
"I took a photo and absolutely pooped myself. What do u all think? It looks like a little girl to me."
The post quickly clocked up more than 1,200 comments, likes and shares as people debated whether or not it was the real deal.
The snap was taken by a Dudley dad Dean Thomas, who had taken his nine-year-old daughter Freya to the park.
He told Black Country Live: "I took a picture of her on the swing and that's how it came out. I sent it to my missus and she put it on Spotted Netherton and it just went mad."
Bella in the Wych Elm
This grisly murder has been the basis of many a child's nightmare for decades.
In 1943, the body of a woman was found stuffed inside a hollow tree - tragically, she has never been officially identified and the case is now cold.
It all began in when four boys were playing in Hagley Woods, Worcestershire. After deciding to climb a tree, they stumbled across the remains of a woman inside the hollow wych elm.
At first they were all too traumatised to tell anyone. But eventually the youngest lad confided in his parents who rang the police.
The discovery has led to sporadic outbreaks of graffiti in the area, asking 'Who put Bella in the Wych Elm?'. The first appeared six months after the body was found.
But the more pertinent question is, who was Bella?
Painstaking detective and forensic work revealed the victim was aged around 35 to 40 and had given birth to a child.
The murder was ritualistic and had all the hallmarks of a Satanic ceremony and never been identified after her skull was lost and her killer - who forced a piece of taffeta cloth in her mouth and severed one of her hands – has never been brought to justice.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--The Range fans stunned by 'amazing' item that prosecco lovers are buying

The Range fans are falling in love with a new item that people are rushing out to buy for Christmas .
The retailer is gearing up for the festive season in the hope that people will be heading out to their nearest store to stock up for presents .
And if we do n't know what to get our significant other , many of us can be wrecking out brain in the hopes we will find the right gift .
The Range has stunned some of its audience by releasing a unique new gift that could be perfect for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of bubbly .
It has showcased an icebucket with a bluetooth speaker inside - pretty different .
And it 's currently up for sale for just £19.99 in store .
The description reads : `` An Icebucket with lights and a Bluetooth speaker ?
!
Yes , you read that right !
Where else than The Range will you find show-stopping products like this !
! ''
Well , other people have been taking in by it and are heading out to buy one .
One person said : `` This looks like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' and another person said : `` OMG got to get this for my cocktail bar '' A third person said : `` Oh my days !
Yes ! ''
and a fourth person added : `` why am I tempted to get this ?
?
?
?
# sendhelp `` The Range does allow its customers to purchase it online or if you want to go and run to your nearest store , you can find it here .
The retailer 175 stores nationwide and stocks more than 65,000 products across 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to DIY and Art Supplies .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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The Range fans are falling in love with a new item that people are rushing out to buy for Christmas.
The retailer is gearing up for the festive season in the hope that people will be heading out to their nearest store to stock up for presents.
And if we don't know what to get our significant other, many of us can be wrecking out brain in the hopes we will find the right gift.
The Range has stunned some of its audience by releasing a unique new gift that could be perfect for the one for those who enjoy a glass of bubbly.
It has showcased an icebucket with a bluetooth speaker inside - pretty different. And it's currently up for sale for just £19.99 in store.
The description reads: "An Icebucket with lights and a Bluetooth speaker?! Yes, you read that right! Where else than The Range will you find show-stopping products like this!!"
Well, other people have been taking in by it and are heading out to buy one. One person said: "This looks like a great addition for our hot tubs" and another person said: "OMG got to get this for my cocktail bar"
A third person said: "Oh my days! Yes!" and a fourth person added: "why am I tempted to get this???? #sendhelp "
The Range does allow its customers to purchase it online or if you want to go and run to your nearest store, you can find it here.
The retailer 175 stores nationwide and stocks more than 65,000 products across 16 different departments, from Homewares and Furniture to DIY and Art Supplies.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Serco promises to learn lessons over asylum seekers with Covid at city hotel

That business that runs a Birmingham hostel for asylum seekers has vowed to learn lessons following a major outbreak of coronavirus at the centre .
Serco faced heavy criticism from Birmingham City Council and Edgbaston MP Preet Kaur Gill after infected people were moved to a hotel in a busy residential area of the city .
But it has now offered reassurances in a call with Ms Gill , Council Leader Ian Ward and John Cotton , the Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion , Community Safety and Equalities .
According to Ms Gill , the firm said that lessons had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August , at the Stone Road hostel in Edgbaston .
Her account of the call has not been disputed by the firm .
Concerns were raised about Serco ’ s handling of asylum seekers under their care back in March when Public Health England and local Public Health teams warned that measures were not in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the asylum accommodation .
The first positive Covid case in the accommodation for asylum seekers was detected in August , which led Birmingham City Council to take enforcement action against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move all residents into single-room accommodation elsewhere in the city , for all residents to be treated as Covid-infected and required to self-isolate for 14 days , and to provide health messages in multiple languages , within 48 hours .
As we reported , residents and a local school complained about groups of people gathering outside the hotel .
One local resident said he had walked past several times in recent days to see groups of up to 20 people , mostly young men , gathered together outside the hotel , not apparently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Serco told the MP and councol that the asylum seekers moved to a city hotel following the outbreak would be leaving by the end of the month , and that the firm had no intention of using the city hotel again .
Serco also provided assurances that it is working to set-up a number of Covid-secure measures that would mean they could safely reopen one of the city ’ s accommodation for asylum seekers again .
Ms Gill said : `` I was pleased to have had the opportunity to raise my serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local residents and those seeking asylum in our city .
`` It was reassuring to hear that Serco have learnt lessons and given assurances that accommodation conditions and Covid measures have been stepped up to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and those seeking asylum .
`` I will continue to work closely with Birmingham City Council over the coming weeks and months to make sure Serco stay true to their word.
” Sarah Burnett , Serco Business Operations Director , said : “ We were pleased to be able to have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP and the Birmingham City Councillors .
`` There is a good relationship with the Council and we look forward to working with the local community as we continue to meet the challenges that everyone faces with Covid . ''

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That business that runs a Birmingham hostel for asylum seekers has vowed to learn lessons following a major outbreak of coronavirus at the centre.
Serco faced heavy criticism from Birmingham City Council and Edgbaston MP Preet Kaur Gill after infected people were moved to a hotel in a busy residential area of the city.
But it has now offered reassurances in a call with Ms Gill, Council Leader Ian Ward and John Cotton, the Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Community Safety and Equalities.
According to Ms Gill, the firm said that lessons had been learnt following the Covid outbreak in August, at the Stone Road hostel in Edgbaston. Her account of the call has not been disputed by the firm.
Concerns were raised about Serco’s handling of asylum seekers under their care back in March when Public Health England and local Public Health teams warned that measures were not in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the asylum accommodation.
The first positive Covid case in the accommodation for asylum seekers was detected in August, which led Birmingham City Council to take enforcement action against Serco. This action required Serco to move all residents into single-room accommodation elsewhere in the city, for all residents to be treated as Covid-infected and required to self-isolate for 14 days, and to provide health messages in multiple languages, within 48 hours.
As we reported, residents and a local school complained about groups of people gathering outside the hotel.
One local resident said he had walked past several times in recent days to see groups of up to 20 people, mostly young men, gathered together outside the hotel, not apparently socially distancing or wearing face coverings.
Serco told the MP and councol that the asylum seekers moved to a city hotel following the outbreak would be leaving by the end of the month, and that the firm had no intention of using the city hotel again. Serco also provided assurances that it is working to set-up a number of Covid-secure measures that would mean they could safely reopen one of the city’s accommodation for asylum seekers again.
Ms Gill said: "I was pleased to have had the opportunity to raise my serious concerns directly with Serco on behalf of local residents and those seeking asylum in our city.
"It was reassuring to hear that Serco have learnt lessons and given assurances that accommodation conditions and Covid measures have been stepped up to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and those seeking asylum.
"I will continue to work closely with Birmingham City Council over the coming weeks and months to make sure Serco stay true to their word.”
Sarah Burnett, Serco Business Operations Director, said: “We were pleased to be able to have a constructive discussion with Preet Kaur Gill, MP and the Birmingham City Councillors.
"There is a good relationship with the Council and we look forward to working with the local community as we continue to meet the challenges that everyone faces with Covid."


birminghammail--2020-10-28--Aston Villa wonderkid Carney Chukwuemeka has been added to FIFA 21

Aston Villa wonderkid Carney Chukwuemeka is now on FIFA 21 , after being added to the game via a database update .
The 17-year-old is one of the most talented youngsters at the club and signed his first professional contract at Villa Park last week , with Chukwuemeka playing regularly for Villa 's Under-23 side since the start of 2020 .
The attacking midfielder has made nine appearances for Villa 's Under-23 side so far , registering two assists in the process .
In the 2019/20 campaign , Chukwuemeka made 14 appearances for the club 's Under-18 side , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assists .
Click here to subscribe to Level up !
The Esports and Gaming Show on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts and Spreaker .
Just a week after signing his first professional contract at Villa , Chukwuemeka has now been added to a FIFA game for the very first time , with the youngster featuring on the latest game from the FIFA gaming franchise , FIFA 21 .
And , his potential is incredible .
Chukwuemeka has been given an overall ability of 57 out of 100 .
To put this into context @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like Michael Tait ( 52 ) , Lewis Brunt ( 52 ) , Callum Rowe ( 51 ) and Jacob Ramsey ( 55 ) , despite being much younger .
The 17-year-old 's best attributes on FIFA 21 are his balance ( 75 ) , short passing ( 67 ) , long passing ( 67 ) , composure ( 65 ) , sprint speed ( 63 ) , ball control ( 62 ) and vision ( 61 ) .
But what is most impressive of all is Chukwuemeka 's potential rating on FIFA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 100 .
To put that value into context , that suggests that the youngster can become one of the best players at the club , matching captain Jack Grealish 's overall rating ( 80 ) .
If you 're playing with Villa on a Career Mode save , Chukwuemeka is definitely a talent you need to keep an eye on .
EA SPORTS have also upgraded a number of Villa players in the latest database update for FIFA 21 , with Jack Grealish , Matty Cash , Ezri Konsa , John McGinn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FIFA 21 is out now on Xbox One , PS4 and PC , with the next generation version of the game set to be released on December 4 , for PlayStation 5 , Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. EA SPORTS have said that these next generation games will feature blazing fast load times , the most realistic , fluid player movement ever in EA SPORTS titles , authentic game day experiences inside stadiums and new player detail unlocked by deferred rendering and lighting .

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Aston Villa wonderkid Carney Chukwuemeka is now on FIFA 21, after being added to the game via a database update.
The 17-year-old is one of the most talented youngsters at the club and signed his first professional contract at Villa Park last week, with Chukwuemeka playing regularly for Villa's Under-23 side since the start of 2020.
The attacking midfielder has made nine appearances for Villa's Under-23 side so far, registering two assists in the process. In the 2019/20 campaign, Chukwuemeka made 14 appearances for the club's Under-18 side, in which he scored twice and registered six assists.
Click here to subscribe to Level up! The Esports and Gaming Show on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spreaker.
Just a week after signing his first professional contract at Villa, Chukwuemeka has now been added to a FIFA game for the very first time, with the youngster featuring on the latest game from the FIFA gaming franchise, FIFA 21. And, his potential is incredible.
Chukwuemeka has been given an overall ability of 57 out of 100. To put this into context, that's actually higher than youngsters like Michael Tait (52), Lewis Brunt (52), Callum Rowe (51) and Jacob Ramsey (55), despite being much younger.
The 17-year-old's best attributes on FIFA 21 are his balance (75), short passing (67), long passing (67), composure (65), sprint speed (63), ball control (62) and vision (61).
But what is most impressive of all is Chukwuemeka's potential rating on FIFA 21, which stands at 80 out of 100. To put that value into context, that suggests that the youngster can become one of the best players at the club, matching captain Jack Grealish's overall rating (80).
If you're playing with Villa on a Career Mode save, Chukwuemeka is definitely a talent you need to keep an eye on.
EA SPORTS have also upgraded a number of Villa players in the latest database update for FIFA 21, with Jack Grealish, Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, John McGinn and Keinan Davis receiving attribute boosts.
FIFA 21 is out now on Xbox One, PS4 and PC, with the next generation version of the game set to be released on December 4, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S.
EA SPORTS have said that these next generation games will feature blazing fast load times, the most realistic, fluid player movement ever in EA SPORTS titles, authentic game day experiences inside stadiums and new player detail unlocked by deferred rendering and lighting.


birminghammail--2020-10-28--West Midlands Police issue 401 fines for breaking lockdown restrictions

Warwickshire Police and Staffordshire Police are among the forces to have issued the least , with 83 and 43 fines respectively .
West Mercia Police has issued over 230 , according to new figures released today .
Data released by the National Police Chiefs ' Council ( NPCC ) on Wednesday shows 20,223 fines for breaching coronavirus restrictions were issued by police in England and Wales between March 27 and October 19 - 17,451 in England and 2,772 in Wales .
NPCC chairman Martin Hewitt said : `` We have seen an increase in enforcement activity in the last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and a shift towards quicker enforcement against those knowingly breaking the rules .
`` Where people do n't listen to police officers ' encouragement then we will take action .
That is our job and I believe the public expect us to do that .
`` Coronavirus is something we have all had to rapidly adapt to , and officers have had to pick up new regulations in a record pace and apply them across the population .
`` The number of instances where enforcement action is necessary at all is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have had with the public .
`` Enforcement does n't and should n't always equal police involvement .
Individuals , businesses and a range of agencies all have a responsibility to ensure the virus is suppressed , and police will continue to play their part . ''
Here are the total number of fixed-penalty notices issued by police forces for breaches of coronavirus restrictions between March 27 and October 19 .

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West Midlands Police has issued 401 fines for breaching coronavirus restrictions.
Warwickshire Police and Staffordshire Police are among the forces to have issued the least, with 83 and 43 fines respectively.
West Mercia Police has issued over 230, according to new figures released today.
Data released by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) on Wednesday shows 20,223 fines for breaching coronavirus restrictions were issued by police in England and Wales between March 27 and October 19 - 17,451 in England and 2,772 in Wales.
NPCC chairman Martin Hewitt said: "We have seen an increase in enforcement activity in the last month, reflecting new regulations coming into effect, and a shift towards quicker enforcement against those knowingly breaking the rules.
"Where people don't listen to police officers' encouragement then we will take action. That is our job and I believe the public expect us to do that.
"Coronavirus is something we have all had to rapidly adapt to, and officers have had to pick up new regulations in a record pace and apply them across the population.
"The number of instances where enforcement action is necessary at all is a small fraction of the total engagement we have had with the public.
"Enforcement doesn't and shouldn't always equal police involvement. Individuals, businesses and a range of agencies all have a responsibility to ensure the virus is suppressed, and police will continue to play their part."
Here are the total number of fixed-penalty notices issued by police forces for breaches of coronavirus restrictions between March 27 and October 19.
Staffordshire 43
Warwickshire 83
West Mercia 234
West Midlands 401