birminghammail--2020-10-29--Birmingham and West Mids heading for Tier 3 - this is everything we know so far

More restrictions and a move into Tier 3 for Birmingham and the West Midlands - or a full circuit breaker lockdown ?
That is the uncomfortable dilemma facing political and business leaders in the region today - assuming they will have a choice - amid fears that the burden of coronavirus and other critical conditions could overwhelm local hospitals .
As we revealed earlier today , local leaders and the government are paving the way for a move into Tier 3 - the highest risk category in the national 'three tiers ' system .
Though no final decision has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the seven council leaders and mayor Andy Street in the West Midlands combined authority area to draw up plans for a full support package for businesses and workers who would be adversely affected by additional restrictions .
The news has provoked uncertainty and confusion , particularly among businesses in the fragile hospitality sector worried about the impact of further restrictions .
But while they contemplate the potential impact of Tier 3 , there is also a growing clamour for a full circuit breaker lockdown locally , on the grounds that anything less will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The whole tier system is chaos , '' said Birmingham Hodge Hill MP and mayoral candidate Liam Byrne .
`` We need a full circuit breaker to save lives and the NHS , and a surge of economic help and support alongside to save businesses .
Otherwise this is a slow death for businesses . ''
This is what we know so far - and what lies behind today 's headlines The coronavirus situation in the West Midlands generally , including Birmingham , was discussed at yesterday 's national Gold Command meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock .
The whole of Staffordshire , Dudley in the Black Country , and Telford and Wrekin , in Shropshire , were placed in Tier 2 .
The addition of Dudley means the whole of the West Midlands Combined Authority area is now in Tier 2 .
The other areas are Birmingham , Sandwell , Solihull , Walsall , Wolverhampton and Coventry .
But it was decided not to take any further steps yet - but that came with agreement that something needs to be done soon .
With hundreds of ill patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and case rates continuing to rise daily , there was agreement that swift action was needed .
Talks are now under way on the details of the package of support that would be attached to the 'inevitable ' move into Tier 3 .
We later spoke to Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward , who outlined the current position .
“ We are not seeing cases rise like they are in some areas of the country , our curve is flatter , but cases are continuing to rise .
We will be moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the course of that conversation , without saying how soon that would be .
`` We are reaching the point where hospital admissions are increasing , the number of cases has gone up and the number of deaths are also going up .
`` We have to do something . ''
He later issued a statement that the move to Tier 3 was not imminent , after business leaders expressed alarm this could happen this weekend .
He later added : `` A move to Tier 3 would seem to be inevitable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also had this to say about the current tier system : `` The three-tier system does n't seem to be working , with cases still rising in Tier 3 areas .
`` It 's clear that our hospitals are coming under increasing pressure - just as we move into winter , which is a challenging time for the NHS at the best of times . ''
He said the Government chose to ignore calls for a circuit breaker three weeks ago - and must think again .
`` If the science says that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get on top of this , then the Government must consider that advice and put the right support for jobs in place . ''
During next week , talks between local leaders , health chiefs and government will result in more restrictions - unless , contrary to expectations , the situation in the community and hospitals improves very significantly .
Mayor Andy Street said today : “ Admissions are increasing week-on-week , more ITU beds are being occupied , some regular services are having to be cut back , staff are once again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all more people are dying .
“ We are now also starting to see the virus spreading again in the elderly and more vulnerable groups .
“ This is not a sustainable situation , and unless the rate of infection falls then we will have to take further action.
” The Mayor set out his position on his preferred way of working last week , when Greater Manchester was placed under tougher Tier 3 restrictions , forcing the closure of pubs and bars that don ’ t serve food , along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adult gaming centres and soft play areas .
Households there are also now banned from mixing in most outdoor settings as well as indoors , including beer gardens , although meeting in parks and other public places is still permitted .
The tightening of restrictions followed a bitter public battle between local leaders and the government over financial support for the region .
A £60m package was eventually offered .
Mr Street said then that he would not accept public , drawn out negotiations with the Government over what support is required @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ensure a full package was agreed in advance - hence the recent discussions .
He said : `` If it gets to the stage that we need to move to Tier Three , then we would have a serious public health situation on our hands .
A response to that could not be delayed . ''
Liam Byrne , Hodge Hill MP and Labour 's mayoral candidate for the region , said : `` We are now running a real risk of hospital beds running out in weeks , it is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals in Birmingham now exceeds the number in the first week of lockdown - there were 200 patients then , we have nearly 300 now .
`` The business community is facing a slow death at the moment ( with restrictions ) .
`` We should be looking at a circuit breaker , backed with a surge of economic help and support for the businesses affected .
The whole tier system is chaos .
If you talk to hospitals you hear of real anxiety about running out of bed space .
The science @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place in Tiers 2 and 3 is not going to be enough . ''
The Birmingham scientist who has set up the city ’ s first testing lab for coronavirus has said Tier 3 restrictions will “ absolutely not ” be enough .
Prof Alan McNally , director of Birmingham University ’ s world-class microbiology and infection institute , called for pubs , restaurants and gyms to shut and travel to be limited as far back as September as cases began to rise in the city .
In response to today ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was likely to soon be in Tier 3 , he said : “ It is absolutely not enough .
“ None of the tiers contain sufficient measures to curb community transmission and a more restrictive set of measures is required to get back ahead of transmission rates across the country.
” Earlier this month he joined 80-plus international scientists and researchers to sign a letter published in The Lancet on October 15 setting out the evidence for urgent action .
The letter implored the Government to do more or risk continuing misery .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ rates are continuing to rise across the region , despite praise for the majority of people who are following the guidance and existing restrictions .
The infection rates in Birmingham , Walsall , Sandwell , Solihull , Wolverhampton and Dudley are all rising - together they make up the West Midlands Combined Authority area .
Birmingham now has a rate of 270 cases per 100,000 people , up from 223 ; Walsall 's rate is 311 , Sandwell is approaching a rate of 300 , Wolverhampton has a rate of 250 cases , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Solihull rising from 204 to 238 .
Other parts of the wider West Midlands are also seeing rising rates .
Most worryingly , rates are rising among the over 60s and vulnerable residents , with outbreaks starting to appear in some care homes .
While that compares relatively favourably with hotspots in other parts of the country , where rates are over 500 , it is not the only factor to decide what restrictions are needed .
Around 300 hospital beds in the city now have patients with coronavirus .
More than 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes as the hospitals trust for Birmingham is also facing rising demand for every other service , including A & E .
As a result , in an unprecedented move , people are being turned away from city A & Es who are not deemed critical or urgent .
Increasing numbers of planned operations are also being rescheduled .
That 's why it is increasingly now not a matter of if more restrictions come in - but when , and what , and for how long .

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More restrictions and a move into Tier 3 for Birmingham and the West Midlands - or a full circuit breaker lockdown?
That is the uncomfortable dilemma facing political and business leaders in the region today - assuming they will have a choice - amid fears that the burden of coronavirus and other critical conditions could overwhelm local hospitals.
As we revealed earlier today, local leaders and the government are paving the way for a move into Tier 3 - the highest risk category in the national 'three tiers' system.
Though no final decision has been reached, work is under way among the seven council leaders and mayor Andy Street in the West Midlands combined authority area to draw up plans for a full support package for businesses and workers who would be adversely affected by additional restrictions.
The news has provoked uncertainty and confusion, particularly among businesses in the fragile hospitality sector worried about the impact of further restrictions.
But while they contemplate the potential impact of Tier 3, there is also a growing clamour for a full circuit breaker lockdown locally, on the grounds that anything less will claim more lives and more livelihoods.
"The whole tier system is chaos," said Birmingham Hodge Hill MP and mayoral candidate Liam Byrne.
"We need a full circuit breaker to save lives and the NHS, and a surge of economic help and support alongside to save businesses. Otherwise this is a slow death for businesses."
This is what we know so far - and what lies behind today's headlines
The coronavirus situation in the West Midlands generally, including Birmingham, was discussed at yesterday's national Gold Command meeting, usually chaired by Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
The whole of Staffordshire, Dudley in the Black Country, and Telford and Wrekin, in Shropshire, were placed in Tier 2.
The addition of Dudley means the whole of the West Midlands Combined Authority area is now in Tier 2. The other areas are Birmingham, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall, Wolverhampton and Coventry.
But it was decided not to take any further steps yet - but that came with agreement that something needs to be done soon.
With hundreds of ill patients fighting the virus in Birmingham's hospitals and case rates continuing to rise daily, there was agreement that swift action was needed.
Talks are now under way on the details of the package of support that would be attached to the 'inevitable' move into Tier 3.
We later spoke to Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward, who outlined the current position.
“We are not seeing cases rise like they are in some areas of the country, our curve is flatter, but cases are continuing to rise. We will be moving into Tier 3," he said during the course of that conversation, without saying how soon that would be.
"We are reaching the point where hospital admissions are increasing, the number of cases has gone up and the number of deaths are also going up.
"We have to do something."
He later issued a statement that the move to Tier 3 was not imminent, after business leaders expressed alarm this could happen this weekend.
He later added: "A move to Tier 3 would seem to be inevitable at some stage."
But he also had this to say about the current tier system: "The three-tier system doesn't seem to be working, with cases still rising in Tier 3 areas.
"It's clear that our hospitals are coming under increasing pressure - just as we move into winter, which is a challenging time for the NHS at the best of times."
He said the Government chose to ignore calls for a circuit breaker three weeks ago - and must think again.
"If the science says that a short national lockdown is needed to get on top of this, then the Government must consider that advice and put the right support for jobs in place."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
During next week, talks between local leaders, health chiefs and government will result in more restrictions - unless, contrary to expectations, the situation in the community and hospitals improves very significantly.
Mayor Andy Street said today: “Admissions are increasing week-on-week, more ITU beds are being occupied, some regular services are having to be cut back, staff are once again under increasing pressure, and most worrying of all more people are dying.
“We are now also starting to see the virus spreading again in the elderly and more vulnerable groups.
“This is not a sustainable situation, and unless the rate of infection falls then we will have to take further action.”
The Mayor set out his position on his preferred way of working last week, when Greater Manchester was placed under tougher Tier 3 restrictions, forcing the closure of pubs and bars that don’t serve food, along with casinos, bingo halls, betting shops, adult gaming centres and soft play areas.
Households there are also now banned from mixing in most outdoor settings as well as indoors, including beer gardens, although meeting in parks and other public places is still permitted.
The tightening of restrictions followed a bitter public battle between local leaders and the government over financial support for the region. A £60m package was eventually offered.
Mr Street said then that he would not accept public, drawn out negotiations with the Government over what support is required.
He instead said he would want to ensure a full package was agreed in advance - hence the recent discussions.
He said: "If it gets to the stage that we need to move to Tier Three, then we would have a serious public health situation on our hands. A response to that could not be delayed."
Liam Byrne, Hodge Hill MP and Labour's mayoral candidate for the region, said: "We are now running a real risk of hospital beds running out in weeks, it is that serious.
"The number in our hospitals in Birmingham now exceeds the number in the first week of lockdown - there were 200 patients then, we have nearly 300 now.
"The business community is facing a slow death at the moment (with restrictions).
"We should be looking at a circuit breaker, backed with a surge of economic help and support for the businesses affected.
The whole tier system is chaos. If you talk to hospitals you hear of real anxiety about running out of bed space. The science is clear, that what is in place in Tiers 2 and 3 is not going to be enough."
The Birmingham scientist who has set up the city’s first testing lab for coronavirus has said Tier 3 restrictions will “absolutely not” be enough.
Prof Alan McNally, director of Birmingham University’s world-class microbiology and infection institute, called for pubs, restaurants and gyms to shut and travel to be limited as far back as September as cases began to rise in the city.
In response to today’s news that Birmingham and the West Midlands was likely to soon be in Tier 3, he said: “It is absolutely not enough.
“None of the tiers contain sufficient measures to curb community transmission and a more restrictive set of measures is required to get back ahead of transmission rates across the country.”
Earlier this month he joined 80-plus international scientists and researchers to sign a letter published in The Lancet on October 15 setting out the evidence for urgent action.
The letter implored the Government to do more or risk continuing misery.
Why are new restrictions needed?
Infection rates are continuing to rise across the region, despite praise for the majority of people who are following the guidance and existing restrictions.
The infection rates in Birmingham, Walsall, Sandwell, Solihull, Wolverhampton and Dudley are all rising - together they make up the West Midlands Combined Authority area.
Birmingham now has a rate of 270 cases per 100,000 people, up from 223; Walsall's rate is 311, Sandwell is approaching a rate of 300, Wolverhampton has a rate of 250 cases, up from 180 last week, with Solihull rising from 204 to 238.
Other parts of the wider West Midlands are also seeing rising rates.
Most worryingly, rates are rising among the over 60s and vulnerable residents, with outbreaks starting to appear in some care homes.
While that compares relatively favourably with hotspots in other parts of the country, where rates are over 500, it is not the only factor to decide what restrictions are needed.
Around 300 hospital beds in the city now have patients with coronavirus. More than 30 are in intensive care beds.
This comes as the hospitals trust for Birmingham is also facing rising demand for every other service, including A&E.
As a result, in an unprecedented move, people are being turned away from city A&Es who are not deemed critical or urgent.
Increasing numbers of planned operations are also being rescheduled.
That's why it is increasingly now not a matter of if more restrictions come in - but when, and what, and for how long.


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Aston Villa fans charged £60 for PPV - and it's bang out of order

Is n't it ironic how the Premier League 's richest team have n't been chosen for box office TV coverage - yet supporters of Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion are being charged £60 .
Man City and Everton fans stand alone as the two Premier League sides who are yet to be hand-picked for £14.95-a-match coverage on either Sky Sports Box Office or BT Sport Box Office .
As far as Villa and Albion are concerned they 're top of the PPV charge league with disgraceful Premier League and TV bosses putting the two West Midlands clubs behind a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the space of just FOUR weeks .
It means supporters of both clubs will be docked £59.80 on top of their TV subscription and monthly licence bills .
I 'm paying £72 for Sky , its internet and Sky Sports and £12.87 for my TV licence yet , if I wanted to watch Villa , that 'd rocket to almost £150 PER MONTH just to watch football .
Quite frankly and given the current climate we 're in it 's scandalous in every sense of the word , not least because of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` The UK unemployment rate has surged to its highest level in over three years as the pandemic continues to hit jobs . ''
According to the latest figures , an estimated 1.5 million people ( 4.5 per cent of the population ) were unemployed between June and August , while redundancies stood at 227,000 .
That figure will be much , much higher as we hit November , I can assure you .
Yet , here 's what the Premier League will continue to do : we 'll charge good , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams play on the box .
Where 's the logic here ?
It 's outrageous .
What 's damn right unfair as well is supporters of the likes of Chelsea , Liverpool , Manchester United and Newcastle are only being asked to pay the £14.95 once .
It 's bang out of order knowing Villa and Albion fans are being billed 60 notes .
Sixty English pounds to watch their teams in their front rooms .
They 're not paying in through the gates to see it live at Villa Park or The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being robbed in their own homes .
'We feel we 've got a good product that 's worth it , ' was the spiel I seem to remember from a totally out-of-touch Premier League boffin .
As far as Villa are concerned as well , Dean Smith 's side have been one of the leading lights in the division this season having won four from five , which included walloping the champions with a sour-faced - and well-paid - Sky Sports pundit blaming the 7-2 hammering on the length of the grass .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sports more often instead of fans being charged £15 a time ?
It 's not on and cash-strapped supporters need answers and the whole PPV revoking .
Is it because Villa have been doing well and League and TV chiefs are looking to mug fans off knowing supporters will bite the bullet and pay it regardless when push comes to shove ?
It 's the same with the Albion as well as supporters are still on a relative high after promotion .
Shame on you Premier League , shame on you .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to let the media know of the exact box office viewing figures , telling reporters they do n't disclose such information to save face .
Now , despite all the preposterous PPV fallout there 's one thing that 's come good of it all - and that 's supporters rallying as one to get behind the Charity Not PPV movement .
`` Thank you for all of the work you do .
I 'd rather you had this money than BT or Sky , '' was the latest £15 donation to the Aston @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost £4,000 raised - and counting - off the back of Villa supporters donating PPV charges to feed those in desperate need instead .
As highlighted this week , around 100 people - young and old - continue to queue up just 500 yards from the Holte End every week to get fed from the big-hearted volunteers who dish out donated food parcels .
Dozens of pot-less families line up on Gladstone Street to get supplies such as tins of beans , bread and bottles of pop and , thankfully , Villa supporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favour of helping others .
Helping others ?
The TV decision-makers should take note , especially given the crippled climate we 're in .

Isn't it ironic how the Premier League's richest team haven't been chosen for box office TV coverage - yet supporters of Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion are being charged £60.
Man City and Everton fans stand alone as the two Premier League sides who are yet to be hand-picked for £14.95-a-match coverage on either Sky Sports Box Office or BT Sport Box Office.
As far as Villa and Albion are concerned they're top of the PPV charge league with disgraceful Premier League and TV bosses putting the two West Midlands clubs behind a pay wall a staggering FOUR times within the space of just FOUR weeks.
It means supporters of both clubs will be docked £59.80 on top of their TV subscription and monthly licence bills. I'm paying £72 for Sky, its internet and Sky Sports and £12.87 for my TV licence yet, if I wanted to watch Villa, that'd rocket to almost £150 PER MONTH just to watch football.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Quite frankly and given the current climate we're in it's scandalous in every sense of the word, not least because of this following BBC headline after a quick Google: "The UK unemployment rate has surged to its highest level in over three years as the pandemic continues to hit jobs."
According to the latest figures, an estimated 1.5 million people (4.5 per cent of the population) were unemployed between June and August, while redundancies stood at 227,000. That figure will be much, much higher as we hit November, I can assure you.
Yet, here's what the Premier League will continue to do: we'll charge good, honest people 15 quid to watch their teams play on the box. Where's the logic here? It's outrageous.
What's damn right unfair as well is supporters of the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle are only being asked to pay the £14.95 once. It's bang out of order knowing Villa and Albion fans are being billed 60 notes. Sixty English pounds to watch their teams in their front rooms. They're not paying in through the gates to see it live at Villa Park or The Hawthorns, no, they're basically being robbed in their own homes. 'We feel we've got a good product that's worth it,' was the spiel I seem to remember from a totally out-of-touch Premier League boffin.
As far as Villa are concerned as well, Dean Smith's side have been one of the leading lights in the division this season having won four from five, which included walloping the champions with a sour-faced - and well-paid - Sky Sports pundit blaming the 7-2 hammering on the length of the grass.
Why aren't Villa on normal Sky Sports more often instead of fans being charged £15 a time? It's not on and cash-strapped supporters need answers and the whole PPV revoking.
Is it because Villa have been doing well and League and TV chiefs are looking to mug fans off knowing supporters will bite the bullet and pay it regardless when push comes to shove? It's the same with the Albion as well as supporters are still on a relative high after promotion.
Shame on you Premier League, shame on you. The TV big-wigs even cower as they refuse to let the media know of the exact box office viewing figures, telling reporters they don't disclose such information to save face.
Now, despite all the preposterous PPV fallout there's one thing that's come good of it all - and that's supporters rallying as one to get behind the Charity Not PPV movement.
"Thank you for all of the work you do. I'd rather you had this money than BT or Sky," was the latest £15 donation to the Aston & Nechells Foodbank donation page, with almost £4,000 raised - and counting - off the back of Villa supporters donating PPV charges to feed those in desperate need instead.
As highlighted this week, around 100 people - young and old - continue to queue up just 500 yards from the Holte End every week to get fed from the big-hearted volunteers who dish out donated food parcels.
Dozens of pot-less families line up on Gladstone Street to get supplies such as tins of beans, bread and bottles of pop and, thankfully, Villa supporters far and wide are boycotting PPV in favour of helping others. Helping others? The TV decision-makers should take note, especially given the crippled climate we're in.


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Famous people who have died from coronavirus - latest list of celebrity deaths

Coronavirus has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in the UK and around the world , including a number of prominent public figures and celebrities .
Comedian Bobby Ball was the latest star to be lost to the coronavirus pandemic when his death was announced on October 29 , 2020 .
At that time , the World Health Organisation had recorded 44,002,003 confirmed cases of Covid-19 globally , including 1,167,988 deaths .
Here are some of the more well-known stars who have tragically died from coronavirus .
Best known as half of the double act Cannon and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hosted ITV 's The Cannon and Ball Show between 1979 and 1988 .
A statement from his manager Phil Dale said : `` Bobby had been taken to the hospital for tests as he started with breathing problems .
`` At first it was thought to be a chest infection but a test proved positive for Covid-19 .
`` Bobby was a true comedy star who loved entertaining people and he loved life itself .
I spoke to him every day and it would always end in laughter ! ''
Comedy partner Tommy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my good friend , I ca n't believe this , I 'm devastated . ''
He later wrote on Twitter : `` I 'm absolutely devastated , I 've lost my partner , my best friend and the funniest man I know .
Thank you for your messages , prayers and love . ''
The duo appeared on I 'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here !
in 2005 .
Ball was born Robert Harper on January 28 , 1944. in Oldham , Lancashire and met Cannon , real name Thomas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a factory as a welder .
After the success of The Cannon And Ball Show he appeared in a string of TV series including as Lenny in Last Of The Summer Wine from 2005 to 2008 .
He also played Topsy Turner in Heartbeat , played Lee Mack 's troublesome father Frank in the BBC One sitcom Not Going Out since 2009 and in 2012 competed in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special .
In March 2020 , he starred in a video posted on the Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ theme song Together We 'll Be OK .
The video aimed to unite everyone in the earliest days of the pandemic , with medical staff also featuring .
At the end of the song , in a now poignant message , Ball said : `` Now I mean that - together we 'll all be OK if we pull together .
See you later ! ''
Best known as half of double act Little and Large .
Born Edward McGinnis , in Glasgow , he met met singer and guitarist Cyril Mead in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ act .
After winning TV talent show Opportunity Knocks in 1971 , they went on to have their own programme The Little and Large Show .
Eddie lived at Portishead , near Bristol , and died after contracting coronavirus while in hospital receiving treatment for heart failure .
Best known as a member of 1970s TV comedy trio The Goodies .
The third member of the trio , Graeme Garden , said he was `` terribly saddened by the loss of a dear colleague and close friend of over 50 years . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ funny , sociable , generous man who was a delight to work with .
Audiences found him not only hilarious but also adorable . ''
Tim 's final appearance on screen was in an episode of Birmingham-made BBC soap Doctors , in 2015 .
Brighton-born Greenfield joined The Stranglers after auditioning in 1975 , replacing Hans Warmling .
He was the keyboardist and synthesiser player as well as occasional vocalist .
He had been diagnosed with coronavirus while in hospital with heart problems .
Hugh Cornwell , singer on The Strangers ' biggest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He was the difference between The Stranglers and every other punk band .
`` His musical skill and gentle nature gave an interesting twist to the band .
He should be remembered as the man who gave the world the music of Golden Brown . ''
Born in the Bronx , New York City , Frederick Thomas was a radio DJ and rapper .
He contracted coronavirus and was hospitalised in intensive care , where he was at one point on a ventilator .
He was already an asthma sufferer and had developed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
His longtime partner and the mother of their two children , makeup artist LeeAnn Jemmott , had been confident he would survive the virus , saying on April 10 : `` He is fighting and he is winning .
He has no sign of infection .
Fred is going to make it .
God is good ! ''
Born in York as John Glen , the British actor was best known for his television credits as Harry Clayton in Coronation Street and as Ned Glover in Emmerdale .
He also appeared in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League of Gentlemen and most recently in Life on Mars .
London-born Benedict Chijioke used the rap name Ty and released four albums , the second ( Upwards ) nominated for a Mercury Prize .
Described as a celebrated member of the British hip-hop scene , he died in hospital from pneumonia after contracting Covid-19 .
At one point he was in a medically-induced coma but was later moved out of intensive care .
Best known as half of the duo Siegfried & Roy , who performed at Mirage Resort and Casino in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ludwig Horn .
He and Siegfried Fischbacher formed a duo after meeting on a cruise ship .
Both originally from Germany , they found fame in the USA , where they were known for their show involving white lions and white tigers .
Horn 's career ended in 2003 when he was attacked by one of the tigers , which led to the end of their Vegas residency .
They retired from showbusiness in 2010 .
Horn contracted coronavirus and was said to be responding well to treatment but his condition deteriorated after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The world has lost one of the greats of magic , but I have lost my best friend . ''
Born in Florida as Christopher Ryan Pask , he took his stepfather 's surname and began a Broadway career when he just eight .
At the age of 14 , he became a member of New York boy band Dream Street , who were active from 2000 to 2002 and toured with Britney Spears .
He continued in the music business and had been working on a solo comeback .
His former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ posted a tribute on social media , saying : `` It pains me to say that an old friend , Chris Trousdale , from my early days in the music industry has passed away due to complications from Covid-19 . ''
California-born Jay Benedict spent most of his life and career in the UK .
He was best known for his roles as Doug Hamilton in Emmerdale and as Captain/Major John Kieffer in Foyle 's War .
The Canadian actor was best known for his theatre work on Broadway , with several awards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV in police shows Blue Bloods and Law & Order : Special Victims Unit .
He died after three months in hospital with severe Covid-19 complications , which included major lung damage and the amputation of his right leg from a blood clot .
Award-winner Terrence McNally had a career spanning six decades and was described as one of the greatest contemporary playwrights in the theatre world .
McNally , who wrote plays , musicals , operas , and TV/film screenplays , received a Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2019 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cancer and was suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ) when he contracted Covid-19 .
Born in Los Angeles , the soul singer sang in clubs and fronted funk band Blackberry Jam before joining The Temptations as lead singer in 2006 .
He left the group in 2015 .
As he recovered from gall bladder surgery , he fell ill with coronavirus and died weeks before his 50th birthday .
He had been working on solo R & B and gospel albums at the time of his death .
Liverpool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her roles in films such as Witchfinder General and Wuthering Heights .
She was also in TV series including The Avengers , Space 1999 and The Prisoner ( where she played Number 73 ) .
Born in the Bronx , New York City , as Allan Preston Sachs , he composed , co-wrote and sang on the first version of I Love Rock ' n ' Roll , a song for 70s band Arrows that later launched the career of Joan Jett .
Alan began his career in Japan before moving to London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own TV series .
He also performed solo and in a number of other groups and collaborations .
New Jersey-born Gaetano DeVito became a founding member and lead guitarist of The Four Seasons , with Franki Valli as lead singer .
Blum had a role alongside Madonna in the 1985 film Desperately Seeking Susan .
He played Gary Glass , husband of Rosanna Arquette 's character Roberta .

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Coronavirus has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in the UK and around the world, including a number of prominent public figures and celebrities.
Comedian Bobby Ball was the latest star to be lost to the coronavirus pandemic when his death was announced on October 29, 2020.
At that time, the World Health Organisation had recorded 44,002,003 confirmed cases of Covid-19 globally, including 1,167,988 deaths.
Here are some of the more well-known stars who have tragically died from coronavirus.
(Image: PA)
Bobby Ball
Comedian, 76, died October 28, 2020
Best known as half of the double act Cannon and Ball, with Tommy Cannon. They hosted ITV's The Cannon and Ball Show between 1979 and 1988.
Bobby died at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on October 28, 2020.
A statement from his manager Phil Dale said: "Bobby had been taken to the hospital for tests as he started with breathing problems.
"At first it was thought to be a chest infection but a test proved positive for Covid-19.
"Bobby was a true comedy star who loved entertaining people and he loved life itself. I spoke to him every day and it would always end in laughter!"
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Comedy partner Tommy Cannon said: "Rock on, my good friend, I can't believe this, I'm devastated."
He later wrote on Twitter: "I'm absolutely devastated, I've lost my partner, my best friend and the funniest man I know. Thank you for your messages, prayers and love."
The duo appeared on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! in 2005.
Ball was born Robert Harper on January 28, 1944. in Oldham, Lancashire and met Cannon, real name Thomas Derbyshire, while he was working in a factory as a welder.
After the success of The Cannon And Ball Show he appeared in a string of TV series including as Lenny in Last Of The Summer Wine from 2005 to 2008.
He also played Topsy Turner in Heartbeat, played Lee Mack's troublesome father Frank in the BBC One sitcom Not Going Out since 2009 and in 2012 competed in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.
In March 2020, he starred in a video posted on the Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust's YouTube channel singing the Cannon and Ball theme song Together We'll Be OK.
The video aimed to unite everyone in the earliest days of the pandemic, with medical staff also featuring.
At the end of the song, in a now poignant message, Ball said: "Now I mean that - together we'll all be OK if we pull together. See you later!"
(Image: PA)
Eddie Large
Comedian, 78, died April 2, 2020
Best known as half of double act Little and Large.
Born Edward McGinnis, in Glasgow, he met met singer and guitarist Cyril Mead in a pub and they formed the double act.
After winning TV talent show Opportunity Knocks in 1971, they went on to have their own programme The Little and Large Show.
Eddie lived at Portishead, near Bristol, and died after contracting coronavirus while in hospital receiving treatment for heart failure.
(Image: Getty Images)
Tim Brooke-Taylor
Actor and comedian, 79, died April 12, 2020
Best known as a member of 1970s TV comedy trio The Goodies.
Goodies co-star Bill Oddie called him a "true visual comic and a great friend".
The third member of the trio, Graeme Garden, said he was "terribly saddened by the loss of a dear colleague and close friend of over 50 years."
He added: "He was a funny, sociable, generous man who was a delight to work with. Audiences found him not only hilarious but also adorable."
Tim's final appearance on screen was in an episode of Birmingham-made BBC soap Doctors, in 2015.
(Image: PA)
Dave Greenfield
Musician (The Stranglers), 71, died May 3, 2020
Brighton-born Greenfield joined The Stranglers after auditioning in 1975, replacing Hans Warmling. He was the keyboardist and synthesiser player as well as occasional vocalist.
He had been diagnosed with coronavirus while in hospital with heart problems.
Hugh Cornwell, singer on The Strangers' biggest hit Golden Brown, tweeted: "He was the difference between The Stranglers and every other punk band.
"His musical skill and gentle nature gave an interesting twist to the band. He should be remembered as the man who gave the world the music of Golden Brown."
Fred The Godson
US DJ/rapper, 35, died April 23, 2020
Born in the Bronx, New York City, Frederick Thomas was a radio DJ and rapper.
He contracted coronavirus and was hospitalised in intensive care, where he was at one point on a ventilator.
He was already an asthma sufferer and had developed kidney problems as a complication of Covid-19.
His longtime partner and the mother of their two children, makeup artist LeeAnn Jemmott, had been confident he would survive the virus, saying on April 10: "He is fighting and he is winning. He has no sign of infection. Fred is going to make it. God is good!"
Johnny Leeze
Actor, 78, died October 25, 2020
Born in York as John Glen, the British actor was best known for his television credits as Harry Clayton in Coronation Street and as Ned Glover in Emmerdale.
He also appeared in Last of the Summer Wine, The League of Gentlemen and most recently in Life on Mars.
Ty
UK rapper, 47, died May 7, 2020
London-born Benedict Chijioke used the rap name Ty and released four albums, the second (Upwards) nominated for a Mercury Prize.
Described as a celebrated member of the British hip-hop scene, he died in hospital from pneumonia after contracting Covid-19.
At one point he was in a medically-induced coma but was later moved out of intensive care.
(Image: Getty Images)
Roy Horn
Magician/entertainer, 75, died May 8, 2020
Best known as half of the duo Siegfried & Roy, who performed at Mirage Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.
Roy was born Uwe Ludwig Horn. He and Siegfried Fischbacher formed a duo after meeting on a cruise ship.
Both originally from Germany, they found fame in the USA, where they were known for their show involving white lions and white tigers.
Horn's career ended in 2003 when he was attacked by one of the tigers, which led to the end of their Vegas residency. They retired from showbusiness in 2010.
Horn contracted coronavirus and was said to be responding well to treatment but his condition deteriorated after he developed complications. Fischbacher said: "The world has lost one of the greats of magic, but I have lost my best friend."
Chris Trousdale
Singer/actor, 34, died June 2, 2020
Born in Florida as Christopher Ryan Pask, he took his stepfather's surname and began a Broadway career when he just eight.
At the age of 14, he became a member of New York boy band Dream Street, who were active from 2000 to 2002 and toured with Britney Spears. He continued in the music business and had been working on a solo comeback.
His former Dream Street bandmate, Jesse McCartney, posted a tribute on social media, saying: "It pains me to say that an old friend, Chris Trousdale, from my early days in the music industry has passed away due to complications from Covid-19."
Jay Benedict
Actor, 68, died April 4, 2020
California-born Jay Benedict spent most of his life and career in the UK.
He was best known for his roles as Doug Hamilton in Emmerdale and as Captain/Major John Kieffer in Foyle's War.
Nick Cordero
Actor, 41, died July 5, 2020
The Canadian actor was best known for his theatre work on Broadway, with several awards and nominations.
He also appeared on TV in police shows Blue Bloods and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
He died after three months in hospital with severe Covid-19 complications, which included major lung damage and the amputation of his right leg from a blood clot.
Terrence McNally
Playwright/screenwriter, 81, died March 24, 2020
Award-winner Terrence McNally had a career spanning six decades and was described as one of the greatest contemporary playwrights in the theatre world.
McNally, who wrote plays, musicals, operas, and TV/film screenplays, received a Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2019.
He had lost part of both lungs to cancer and was suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) when he contracted Covid-19.
Bruce Williamson
Musician (The Temptations), 49, died September 6, 2020
Born in Los Angeles, the soul singer sang in clubs and fronted funk band Blackberry Jam before joining The Temptations as lead singer in 2006. He left the group in 2015.
As he recovered from gall bladder surgery, he fell ill with coronavirus and died weeks before his 50th birthday. He had been working on solo R&B and gospel albums at the time of his death.
Hilary Dwyer
Actress, 74, died March 30, 2020
Liverpool actress Hilary Dwyer was best known for her roles in films such as Witchfinder General and Wuthering Heights.
She was also in TV series including The Avengers, Space 1999 and The Prisoner (where she played Number 73).
Alan Merrill
Musician (Arrows), 69, died March 29, 2020
Born in the Bronx, New York City, as Allan Preston Sachs, he composed, co-wrote and sang on the first version of I Love Rock 'n' Roll, a song for 70s band Arrows that later launched the career of Joan Jett.
Alan began his career in Japan before moving to London and forming Arrows, who were given their own TV series. He also performed solo and in a number of other groups and collaborations.
Mark Blum
Actor, 69, died March 25, 2020
Blum's roles included appearing alongside Madonna in the 1985 film Desperately Seeking Susan. He played Gary Glass, husband of Rosanna Arquette's character Roberta.
Tommy DeVito
Musician (The Four Seasons), 92, died September 21, 2020
New Jersey-born Gaetano DeVito became a founding member and lead guitarist of The Four Seasons, with Franki Valli as lead singer.


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Grosicki preparing for Fulham clash as winger seeks Bilic chance

It ’ s like Kamil Grosicki has never been away ( in truth , he hasn ’ t ) .
The West Brom winger learned on Thursday that he ’ s going nowhere ; his move to Nottingham Forest has officially fallen through after it was ruled at an arbitration hearing this week that the paperwork had been submitted after the recent transfer deadline - even if only by a matter of seconds .
Albion kept a space open for Grosicki in their 25-man squad which was submitted to the Premier League following the closure of the transfer window , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back into Slaven Bilic ’ s plans - until the January transfer window at the very least .
Bilic , at his Thursday press conference , welcomed Grosicki back into the fold and has challenged him to force his way back into the Albion squad , which means plenty of hard work in the week .
He ’ s already preparing himself for that test - in a short video shared by teammate Filip Krovinovic .
The Croatian , via his Instagram account , posted a clip of Grosicki in the gym working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead of Monday ’ s trip to Fulham .
Grosicki himself also posted a selfie of himself at the training ground and the caption : “ Ready for football.
” Grosicki has only played an hour of domestic football this season , that coming against Harrogate Town in the EFL Cup back in September , though he has remained a regular with his native Poland and bagged a hat-trick against Finland in the last international break .
Forest , meanwhile , have left enraged by the EFL following the collapsing of the move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both cases .
Indeed new boss Chris Hughton had spoken on more than one occasion of how he ’ d hoped that the matter would be resolved as he ’ d wanted to add Grosicki into his own inherited group .
“ We would like to thank the arbitrator for considering our case at such short notice and delivering his decision with the requested speed .
We were always realistic about the limited prospects of overturning the exercise of a discretion by the EFL board , ” Forest said , via an official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision of the EFL board because we believed that we owed an obligation to the player and our fans to challenge the refusal to permit the registration on the basis of an alleged 20 second delay in submitting one document when every other action taken by the club was in time .
Why should you sign up ?
In our daily Baggies 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
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Google Play Store and App Store “ It is implicit in the arbitrator ’ s decision that the board could have exercised its discretion lawfully in the circumstances and to have permitted the transfer .
“ We believe it is a matter of significant regret that the board exercised its discretion against us and the player when it could have done the opposite .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s decision was the product of the type of governance needed to enable the EFL to flourish and to provide the fans with a vibrant competition .
“ Judging by the numerous expressions of private support that we have received from other Championship rivals we believe we are not alone in holding this view .
”

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It’s like Kamil Grosicki has never been away (in truth, he hasn’t).
The West Brom winger learned on Thursday that he’s going nowhere; his move to Nottingham Forest has officially fallen through after it was ruled at an arbitration hearing this week that the paperwork had been submitted after the recent transfer deadline - even if only by a matter of seconds.
Albion kept a space open for Grosicki in their 25-man squad which was submitted to the Premier League following the closure of the transfer window, and he’ll now be re-integrated back into Slaven Bilic’s plans - until the January transfer window at the very least.
Bilic, at his Thursday press conference, welcomed Grosicki back into the fold and has challenged him to force his way back into the Albion squad, which means plenty of hard work in the week.
He’s already preparing himself for that test - in a short video shared by teammate Filip Krovinovic.
The Croatian, via his Instagram account, posted a clip of Grosicki in the gym working on his core training with a powerbag ahead of Monday’s trip to Fulham.
Grosicki himself also posted a selfie of himself at the training ground and the caption: “Ready for football.”
Grosicki has only played an hour of domestic football this season, that coming against Harrogate Town in the EFL Cup back in September, though he has remained a regular with his native Poland and bagged a hat-trick against Finland in the last international break.
Forest, meanwhile, have left enraged by the EFL following the collapsing of the move, because of the ruling having heard both cases.
Indeed new boss Chris Hughton had spoken on more than one occasion of how he’d hoped that the matter would be resolved as he’d wanted to add Grosicki into his own inherited group.
“We would like to thank the arbitrator for considering our case at such short notice and delivering his decision with the requested speed. We were always realistic about the limited prospects of overturning the exercise of a discretion by the EFL board,” Forest said, via an official club statement.
“We challenged the decision of the EFL board because we believed that we owed an obligation to the player and our fans to challenge the refusal to permit the registration on the basis of an alleged 20 second delay in submitting one document when every other action taken by the club was in time.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just 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 by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
“It is implicit in the arbitrator’s decision that the board could have exercised its discretion lawfully in the circumstances and to have permitted the transfer.
“We believe it is a matter of significant regret that the board exercised its discretion against us and the player when it could have done the opposite. In particular we do not believe the board’s decision was the product of the type of governance needed to enable the EFL to flourish and to provide the fans with a vibrant competition.
“Judging by the numerous expressions of private support that we have received from other Championship rivals we believe we are not alone in holding this view.”


birminghammail--2020-10-29--How to buy Liverpool FC Cadbury bar - even though it's sold out

Liverpool fans and chocolate lovers have been out trying to buy a limited edition bar of chocolate - but it @ @ @ @ @ up for eye watering prices on eBay .
Cadbury and Liverpool FC announced they were @ @ @ @ @ edition Dairy Milk bar at the start of September .
Cadbury said only 60,000 bars @ @ @ @ @ so it could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to buy a piece of history .
The @ @ @ @ @ on its website for £2.50 to the joy of many Liverpool fans .
However , @ @ @ @ @ has been so popular it sold out .
But now some bars have ended up @ @ @ @ @ of £10 .
One items is still bidding and is currently at £11.50 at the @ @ @ @ @ is also selling a bar for £30 which includes a letter that was sent out @ @ @ @ @ .
However , Facebook group The Liverpool country has claimed the bar is still being @ @ @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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Liverpool fans and chocolate lovers have been out trying to buy a limited edition bar of chocolate - but it seems sellers are putting them up for eye watering prices on eBay.
Cadbury and Liverpool FC announced they were collaborating to release a limited edition Dairy Milk bar at the start of September.
Cadbury said only 60,000 bars were going to be made so it could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to buy a piece of history.
The chocolate maker released the bar on its website for £2.50 to the joy of many Liverpool fans. However, it appears that the bar has been so popular it sold out.
But now some bars have ended up on eBay selling for upwards of £10. One items is still bidding and is currently at £11.50 at the time of writing.
(Image: eBay)
Someone is also selling a bar for £30 which includes a letter that was sent out to fans and a scarf.
However, Facebook group The Liverpool country has claimed the bar is still being sold in Sainsbury's.


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Yobs leave school with 'tens of thousands of pounds' of damage

Cruel yobs caused thousands of pounds of damage during a break-in at a Wolverhampton school .
Vandals smashed computers and poured glue and solvent over the sports hall floor at Moreton School in Bushbury .
A brand new specialist wheelchair belonging to a disabled student was stolen - along with tools , laptops and iPads - when the school in Old Fallings Lane was targeted between 8pm and 10pm on Wednesday , October 28 .
Their mindless actions have devastated headteacher Nicola Bayliss , who has publicly reached out to culprits to say : `` I hope that you 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about what you 've done . ''
Posting on the school 's Facebook page , she said : `` I 'm sad to say the school was broken into last night , leaving us with tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage .
Stealing is one thing , but the vandalism is something that I just ca n't get my head around today .
`` There were eight teenage boys in the building and together they have deliberately smashed up the equipment used by our special needs department , including stealing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of our disabled students .
`` They 've also smashed thousands of pounds of computers used by Year 11 for their coursework and exams , at a time when they are already feeling stressed about their futures because of the impact of Covid .
`` They 've stolen tools , laptops , ipads , even the boxes of sweets and pop that were a treat for Year 11 after their mock exams .
`` To top it all off , they then poured glue and solvent all over the sports hall floor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use it until it 's been cleaned and re-sealed . ''
Mrs Bayliss said while she understood `` teenagers do daft things and make mistakes '' , she knew the community did n't raise their children to `` be out mindlessly destroying stuff that is there to help the most vulnerable '' .
She continued : `` Twenty-five per cent of Moreton students have special needs .
A quarter of the school are going to suffer in the coming months because the equipment they need has been smashed to pieces and ca n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is so tightly knit , we know that you will all be as upset about this as we are .
`` We also know that someone knows who they are .
Someone 's son was in this building between 8pm and 10pm last night .
Someone 's brother came home last night with stuff that belonged to Moreton kids .
Someone 's grandson spent yesterday evening smashing up stuff that helps our most vulnerable children .
`` Today , there are a team of staff in the building giving up their holiday to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can so that we can welcome all of our students back on Monday morning .
`` After everything that 2020 has thrown at us as a community , I 'm gutted that eight young men have decided to do this to us . ''
She concluded the post by addressing the culprits directly .
`` If you 're reading this , I hope that at some point you feel even a small twinge of guilt , '' she said .
`` I hope that you 're not so lost that you feel good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I also hope that you are at a school or college that cares about you and supports you to find a future that is happier .
That 's what we do here at Moreton .
And you wo n't stop us .
See you all on Monday . ''
West Midlands Police said it is investigating the break in , which saw `` several items and doors damaged '' .
Anyone with information is asked to contact the force via live chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight .

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Cruel yobs caused thousands of pounds of damage during a break-in at a Wolverhampton school.
Vandals smashed computers and poured glue and solvent over the sports hall floor at Moreton School in Bushbury.
A brand new specialist wheelchair belonging to a disabled student was stolen - along with tools, laptops and iPads - when the school in Old Fallings Lane was targeted between 8pm and 10pm on Wednesday, October 28.
Their mindless actions have devastated headteacher Nicola Bayliss, who has publicly reached out to culprits to say: "I hope that you're not so lost that you feel good about what you've done."
Posting on the school's Facebook page, she said: "I'm sad to say the school was broken into last night, leaving us with tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage. Stealing is one thing, but the vandalism is something that I just can't get my head around today.
"There were eight teenage boys in the building and together they have deliberately smashed up the equipment used by our special needs department, including stealing a brand new specialist wheelchair that belongs to one of our disabled students.
"They've also smashed thousands of pounds of computers used by Year 11 for their coursework and exams, at a time when they are already feeling stressed about their futures because of the impact of Covid.
"They've stolen tools, laptops, ipads, even the boxes of sweets and pop that were a treat for Year 11 after their mock exams.
"To top it all off, they then poured glue and solvent all over the sports hall floor, meaning that our students can't use it until it's been cleaned and re-sealed."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Mrs Bayliss said while she understood "teenagers do daft things and make mistakes", she knew the community didn't raise their children to "be out mindlessly destroying stuff that is there to help the most vulnerable".
She continued: "Twenty-five per cent of Moreton students have special needs. A quarter of the school are going to suffer in the coming months because the equipment they need has been smashed to pieces and can't be replaced quickly.
"This community is so tightly knit, we know that you will all be as upset about this as we are.
"We also know that someone knows who they are. Someone's son was in this building between 8pm and 10pm last night. Someone's brother came home last night with stuff that belonged to Moreton kids. Someone's grandson spent yesterday evening smashing up stuff that helps our most vulnerable children.
"Today, there are a team of staff in the building giving up their holiday to clean and repair as much as we can so that we can welcome all of our students back on Monday morning.
"After everything that 2020 has thrown at us as a community, I'm gutted that eight young men have decided to do this to us."
She concluded the post by addressing the culprits directly.
"If you're reading this, I hope that at some point you feel even a small twinge of guilt," she said.
"I hope that you're not so lost that you feel good about what you've done.
"I also hope that you are at a school or college that cares about you and supports you to find a future that is happier. That's what we do here at Moreton. And you won't stop us. See you all on Monday."
West Midlands Police said it is investigating the break in, which saw "several items and doors damaged".
Anyone with information is asked to contact the force via live chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight.
Alternatively call 101 anytime, quoting log 4441 of October 28.


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Slaven Bilic sets Kamil Grosicki a challenge after Albion stay

Kamil Grosicki is back in the West Brom fray after his move to Nottingham Forest fell through - and Slaven Bilic has laid down a challenge to the Polish winger as he welcomes him into the fold once more .
Grosicki was the subject of interest and a loan offer from Championship outfit Forest that required all hands to the pump on transfer deadline day - yet that wasn ’ t enough , and the deadline came too soon for the paperwork that was being submitted .
It was ruled that Grosicki ’ s deal , which missed the deadline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couldn ’ t go through at an arbitration hearing this week and so the player is at Bilic ’ s disposal once more .
It was never a footballing decision , more a business call , that Grosicki might ’ ve left for the City Ground , Bilic reasoned and so he ’ s ready to include him in his plans once more .
How much of a part he plays in the coming weeks and months , though , is entirely down to the winger , who faces competition for places in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phillips and Kyle Edwards .
“ I felt sorry for him , because he ’ s a great lad and a great professional , ” Bilic said of the move collapsing .
“ We ’ re not overloaded with the players .
I said at the time why we were willing to do it was because we had to offload some players , to bring some players in in very important positions .
“ For Grosicki , it ’ s taken a little bit longer for his case to be resolved , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s going to be included .
“ He ’ s an international player , he ’ s very proven in the Premier League .
He ’ s played in the World Cup and big tournaments .
He ’ s still in the first XI for Poland .
“ He ’ s going to be included and it ’ s entirely down to him how much he ’ s going to play , or be involved .
“ Do I like him as a player ?
Yes I like him a lot .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire and top form , then he ’ s very , very valuable for us .
Albion , who submitted their 25-man squad after the closure of the transfer window , were assured that they would be able to add Grosicki onto that list should he have stayed put - which he has done .
Why should you sign up ?
In our daily Baggies bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '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 do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 The former Hull City talisman would ’ ve made it a round 25 , but for the fact that Ahmed Hegazi has since left the club and so it ’ s 24 senior players - not including those under the age of 21 - that Bilic has to work with as Albion seek to secure another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kamil is a big boost for us .
The reason why I was willing to let him go was because we needed to bring [ Karlan ] Grant in .
That was the position we really needed - a priority , ” Bilic continued .
“ So it had nothing to do with football .
He ’ s a good player , proven in the Premier League and we don ’ t have too many of those players .
“ We ’ re not overloaded in the positions where he can play .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for him , in our squad .
Welcome back .
”

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Kamil Grosicki is back in the West Brom fray after his move to Nottingham Forest fell through - and Slaven Bilic has laid down a challenge to the Polish winger as he welcomes him into the fold once more.
Grosicki was the subject of interest and a loan offer from Championship outfit Forest that required all hands to the pump on transfer deadline day - yet that wasn’t enough, and the deadline came too soon for the paperwork that was being submitted.
It was ruled that Grosicki’s deal, which missed the deadline by a little over 20 seconds, couldn’t go through at an arbitration hearing this week and so the player is at Bilic’s disposal once more.
It was never a footballing decision, more a business call, that Grosicki might’ve left for the City Ground, Bilic reasoned and so he’s ready to include him in his plans once more.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
How much of a part he plays in the coming weeks and months, though, is entirely down to the winger, who faces competition for places in the form of Grady Diangana, Matt Phillips and Kyle Edwards.
“I felt sorry for him, because he’s a great lad and a great professional,” Bilic said of the move collapsing.
“We’re not overloaded with the players. I said at the time why we were willing to do it was because we had to offload some players, to bring some players in in very important positions.
“For Grosicki, it’s taken a little bit longer for his case to be resolved, or solved, but of course he’s going to be included.
“He’s an international player, he’s very proven in the Premier League. He’s played in the World Cup and big tournaments. He’s still in the first XI for Poland.
“He’s going to be included and it’s entirely down to him how much he’s going to play, or be involved.
“Do I like him as a player? Yes I like him a lot. I like him when he’s on fire and top form, then he’s very, very valuable for us.
“So I’m glad that he stayed.”
Albion, who submitted their 25-man squad after the closure of the transfer window, were assured that they would be able to add Grosicki onto that list should he have stayed put - which he has done.
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The former Hull City talisman would’ve made it a round 25, but for the fact that Ahmed Hegazi has since left the club and so it’s 24 senior players - not including those under the age of 21 - that Bilic has to work with as Albion seek to secure another year in the top flight.
“Kamil is a big boost for us. The reason why I was willing to let him go was because we needed to bring [Karlan] Grant in. That was the position we really needed - a priority,” Bilic continued.
“So it had nothing to do with football. He’s a good player, proven in the Premier League and we don’t have too many of those players.
“We’re not overloaded in the positions where he can play. We kept that space in the roster for him, in our squad. Welcome back.”


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Town centre masterplan includes 1,100 homes and Mell Square revamp

More than 1,100 new homes , a revamped Mell Square and a brand-new multi-storey car park are among the radical plans for Solihull town centre in the coming years .
A major redevelopment of the railway station , a new council headquarters and traffic projects at a number of key roundabouts are among other proposals included in an updated masterplan .
It identifies six `` areas of change '' in the heart of the borough and gives details of how each zone is expected to evolve over the next 15 years .
The council document - which updates a blueprint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be approved by cabinet next week .
In its introduction the draft masterplan says it intends for Solihull to continue as `` a thriving , vibrant and visionary town '' into the middle of next decade .
`` Bold measures need to be taken to capitalise on the potential of the town centre ; guaranteeing its resilience and ensuring that it can meet future challenges '' , it says .
• A significant increase in housing in and around the centre , with plans for 1,178 units across several sites • Redevelopment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a drive to attract visitors `` morning , noon and night '' .
The shop and restaurant offer would be revamped and up to 500 of the homes could be sited in this area • A new multi-storey car park has been earmarked for Monkspath Hall Road , while the existing multi-storey at Lode Lane could make way for a residential development • A major facelift for Solihull Station to help cope with increased passenger numbers • Creation of 50,000sqm of office space , including the flagship Westgate building , on the corner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year • The current council HQ would be replaced with a new building as part of a wider redevelopment dubbed Eastgate .
This area could also include hundreds of new homes , retail outlets and a new gym • Redesign of key junctions including Lode Lane and the Blossomfield Road roundabout • A drive to improve Solihull 's nightlife and boost the evening economy • Improvements to public spaces , with plans for new `` civic squares '' and a revamp of Theatre Square , with the hope of encouraging more outdoor performances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the previous version of the masterplan in light of events over the past four years .
These include the collapse of plans to extend Touchwood shopping centre , a decision to redevelop rather than relocate Solihull Train Station and the replacement of the old Magistrates Court building .
Climate change policies adopted by the council and the impact of Covid-19 , which has hit high streets hard and is likely to drive a long-term shift towards more home working , have also been factored in .
Cabinet will discuss the set of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ November 5 .
A £6.5 million sum has been secured to help bankroll plans to create a low carbon energy network to serve Solihull town centre .
Proposals to cut greenhouse emissions by plumbing a range of key building into the system have been taking shape over the past two years .
Today it was confirmed that a sizeable grant had been signed off by the government ’ s Heat Networks Investment Project .
Cllr Andy Mackiewicz , cabinet member for climate change , planning and housing , described the funding as `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the first phase of the network will be in operation in late 2022 .

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More than 1,100 new homes, a revamped Mell Square and a brand-new multi-storey car park are among the radical plans for Solihull town centre in the coming years.
A major redevelopment of the railway station, a new council headquarters and traffic projects at a number of key roundabouts are among other proposals included in an updated masterplan.
It identifies six "areas of change" in the heart of the borough and gives details of how each zone is expected to evolve over the next 15 years.
The council document - which updates a blueprint produced back in 2016 - is due to be approved by cabinet next week.
In its introduction the draft masterplan says it intends for Solihull to continue as "a thriving, vibrant and visionary town" into the middle of next decade.
"Bold measures need to be taken to capitalise on the potential of the town centre; guaranteeing its resilience and ensuring that it can meet future challenges", it says.
Key proposals include:
A significant increase in housing in and around the centre, with plans for 1,178 units across several sites
Redevelopment of the Mell Square shopping area with a drive to attract visitors "morning, noon and night". The shop and restaurant offer would be revamped and up to 500 of the homes could be sited in this area
A new multi-storey car park has been earmarked for Monkspath Hall Road, while the existing multi-storey at Lode Lane could make way for a residential development
A major facelift for Solihull Station to help cope with increased passenger numbers
Creation of 50,000sqm of office space, including the flagship Westgate building, on the corner of Homer Road, approved earlier this year
The current council HQ would be replaced with a new building as part of a wider redevelopment dubbed Eastgate. This area could also include hundreds of new homes, retail outlets and a new gym
Redesign of key junctions including Lode Lane and the Blossomfield Road roundabout
A drive to improve Solihull's nightlife and boost the evening economy
Improvements to public spaces, with plans for new "civic squares" and a revamp of Theatre Square, with the hope of encouraging more outdoor performances
A number of changes have been made to the previous version of the masterplan in light of events over the past four years.
These include the collapse of plans to extend Touchwood shopping centre, a decision to redevelop rather than relocate Solihull Train Station and the replacement of the old Magistrates Court building.
Climate change policies adopted by the council and the impact of Covid-19, which has hit high streets hard and is likely to drive a long-term shift towards more home working, have also been factored in.
Cabinet will discuss the set of proposals at its meeting on Thursday, November 5.
Multi-million pound boost for energy network:
A £6.5 million sum has been secured to help bankroll plans to create a low carbon energy network to serve Solihull town centre.
Proposals to cut greenhouse emissions by plumbing a range of key building into the system have been taking shape over the past two years.
Today it was confirmed that a sizeable grant had been signed off by the government’s Heat Networks Investment Project.
Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet member for climate change, planning and housing, described the funding as "fantastic news."
It is hoped that the first phase of the network will be in operation in late 2022.


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Man remains in hospital following disorder outside pub

A man remains seriously injured in hospital following disorder outside a pub as a 28-year-old appeared in court .
An @ @ @ @ @ Phoenix pub in Martley Road , Oldbury , on Saturday , October 24 .
A @ @ @ @ @ left with serious head injuries .
He remains in a serious condition in hospital .
@ @ @ @ @ connection with the incident on Wednesday , October 28 , and later charged with inflicting @ @ @ @ @ .
Matthews , of Bredon Court , Halesowen , appeared at a virtual court hearing @ @ @ @ @ to appear before Wolverhampton Crown Court on November 26 .
West Midlands Police is still @ @ @ @ @ who was in Martley Road , at around 9.10pm that night , who has not @ @ @ @ @ Anyone with information should get in touch via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and @ @ @ @ @ anytime .
People are asked to quote crime reference SW/260613P/20 .

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A man remains seriously injured in hospital following disorder outside a pub as a 28-year-old appeared in court.
An altercation took place near the Phoenix pub in Martley Road, Oldbury, on Saturday, October 24.
A man in his 40s was left with serious head injuries. He remains in a serious condition in hospital.
Thomas Matthews was arrested in connection with the incident on Wednesday, October 28, and later charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.
Matthews, of Bredon Court, Halesowen, appeared at a virtual court hearing and was remanded in custody to appear before Wolverhampton Crown Court on November 26.
West Midlands Police is still keen to hear from anyone who was in Martley Road, at around 9.10pm that night, who has not already spoken to officers.
Anyone with information should get in touch via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight or call 101 at anytime.
People are asked to quote crime reference SW/260613P/20.


birminghammail--2020-10-29--Fans will pay £60 to watch Albion on PPV - it's scandalous

There was a West Bromwich Albion supporter who felt compelled to ring up talkSPORT ’ s popular breakfast show this week and complain that the Baggies were being unfairly treated by the new pay-per-view set-up that has been adopted by the Premier League , through Sky Sports and BT Sport .
That can sound a little bit ‘ woe is me , we ’ re being picked on and the world is against us ’ , but ultimately you can ’ t ignore the point that Albion - as well , ironically , as neighbours Aston Villa - have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a paywall .
Albion are not Manchester United or Arsenal or Liverpool , who they wouldn ’ t dare try and hide away from the masses for fear of the enormous backlash .
Certainly not four weeks on the spin , anyway .
But West Brom , just back in the Premier League after a couple of years away from it , sadly not considered particularly fashionable in this era of ‘ modern football ’ , are an easy target .
Or rather their loyal fanbase are , who after the latest round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consecutive match hidden away on the Box Office channels .
West Brom v Burnley was mocked .
‘ Who ’ d pay to watch that ?
I ’ d need paying to sit in front of the tele and watch it ’ .
Granted , the match was forgettable , yet in what was the strongest message fans and neutrals could ’ ve sent , the viewing figures were embarrassingly low .
The audience voted with its feet , or rather with its bank balance .
Perhaps they expect the clubs in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fanbases are more tight knit , to pay for that exclusivity .
If there is any understanding towards the League , and the broadcasters , and the clubs themselves who voted for it , charging money on a weekly basis in order for fans - millions of whom already have Sky and BT subscriptions - to watch their team , it ’ s that football is in a bad way financially .
It probably was anyway , but certainly now there is no doubt because of the pandemic .
Clubs need the revenue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can we not even it out just a little ?
Was there no joining of the dots here ?
‘ Oh , maybe we shouldn ’ t move Albion ’ s game with Spurs to Box Office as their supporters have paid 45 quid in the last three weeks alone.
’ As mentioned , Albion are n't alone .
Villa , and indeed their next opponents Fulham , are also in line for a fourth successive match behind a paywall .
For obvious reasons , Saturday 3pm is largely a no go this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a game that is down to commence at the sport ’ s most traditional time will remain at that time .
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It is always up-to-date with the latest news from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and App Store Yet Albion have played twice on a Saturday this term and goodness knows that the Manchester United trip on the other side of the coming international break already looks vulnerable to a shift in date and time .
In reality , the Spurs clash at The Hawthorns is fine on a Sunday at noon .
At least it ’ s not the dreadful 5:30 kick off which means fans who are willing to pay the fee have to rush home from work in order to see the match begin , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks on the bounce .
So you can add another 15 on top of the 45 , and Albion fans who have wanted to see their side in action for the past month will have forked out £60 , in this financial climate , on top of their subscription fees which they pay to see football in the first place .
Read the room .
It ’ s not a great look .
The final word will go to the earnest Charity Not PPV movement .
There are plenty of great causes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefitted in recent weeks from fans who are taking their hard earned dollar elsewhere .
At least some good has come from it .

There was a West Bromwich Albion supporter who felt compelled to ring up talkSPORT’s popular breakfast show this week and complain that the Baggies were being unfairly treated by the new pay-per-view set-up that has been adopted by the Premier League, through Sky Sports and BT Sport.
That can sound a little bit ‘woe is me, we’re being picked on and the world is against us’, but ultimately you can’t ignore the point that Albion - as well, ironically, as neighbours Aston Villa - have been deemed an easy target to shove behind a paywall.
Albion are not Manchester United or Arsenal or Liverpool, who they wouldn’t dare try and hide away from the masses for fear of the enormous backlash. Certainly not four weeks on the spin, anyway.
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But West Brom, just back in the Premier League after a couple of years away from it, sadly not considered particularly fashionable in this era of ‘modern football’, are an easy target. Or rather their loyal fanbase are, who after the latest round of fixture changes have seen their FOURTH consecutive match hidden away on the Box Office channels.
West Brom v Burnley was mocked. ‘Who’d pay to watch that? I’d need paying to sit in front of the tele and watch it’. Granted, the match was forgettable, yet in what was the strongest message fans and neutrals could’ve sent, the viewing figures were embarrassingly low. The audience voted with its feet, or rather with its bank balance.
Perhaps they expect the clubs in the lower reaches of the table, where fanbases are more tight knit, to pay for that exclusivity.
If there is any understanding towards the League, and the broadcasters, and the clubs themselves who voted for it, charging money on a weekly basis in order for fans - millions of whom already have Sky and BT subscriptions - to watch their team, it’s that football is in a bad way financially. It probably was anyway, but certainly now there is no doubt because of the pandemic. Clubs need the revenue one way or the other.
But can we not even it out just a little? Was there no joining of the dots here? ‘Oh, maybe we shouldn’t move Albion’s game with Spurs to Box Office as their supporters have paid 45 quid in the last three weeks alone.’
As mentioned, Albion aren't alone. Villa, and indeed their next opponents Fulham, are also in line for a fourth successive match behind a paywall.
For obvious reasons, Saturday 3pm is largely a no go this season. Maybe once in a while a game that is down to commence at the sport’s most traditional time will remain at that time.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just 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 by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
Yet Albion have played twice on a Saturday this term and goodness knows that the Manchester United trip on the other side of the coming international break already looks vulnerable to a shift in date and time.
In reality, the Spurs clash at The Hawthorns is fine on a Sunday at noon. At least it’s not the dreadful 5:30 kick off which means fans who are willing to pay the fee have to rush home from work in order to see the match begin, a slot that Albion have occupied three weeks on the bounce.
So you can add another 15 on top of the 45, and Albion fans who have wanted to see their side in action for the past month will have forked out £60, in this financial climate, on top of their subscription fees which they pay to see football in the first place.
Read the room. It’s not a great look.
The final word will go to the earnest Charity Not PPV movement. There are plenty of great causes, particularly in foodbank form, that have benefitted in recent weeks from fans who are taking their hard earned dollar elsewhere. At least some good has come from it.