birminghammail--2020-04-20--Cold War Steve Brummie montage - how many stars can you spot?

An incredible montage showcasing Birmingham and its icons , past and present , is now on display at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery - in virtual form .
Brummie artist Christopher Spence , better known as 'Cold War Steve ' , has crafted a giant love letter to Birmingham in the form of an intricate montage titled Benny 's Babbies .
Among its cast of characters is a Rotunda-sized Benny from iconic soap Crossroads , looming over the scene - but look carefully and you 'll spy a supporting cast of artists , writers , musicians , activists and politicians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bob Carolgees and Spit the dog , Musical Youth and Malala Yousafzai , Black Sabbath , Alison Hammond and former mayor Yvonne Mosquito , among dozens more , all set in a landscape of iconic Brummie buildings of yesterday and today .
The artwork is the main attraction in an exhibition , called Cut , Copy , Remix , that had been due to launch at Birmingham Art Museum and Gallery this weekend but instead has been launched online in a collaboration with The Social Gathering .
Cold War Steve , celebrated for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often starring Phil from Eastenders or Cilla Black , said it was the pinnacle of his artistic life .
Explaining the motivation for his work , he said : `` Birmingham is never championed or celebrated for its contribution to British cultural history .
It ’ s that ugly city between London and Manchester , where everyone sounds thick and probably smells of crisps and Bullseye .
`` Countless programmes , books and magazines extoll the swaggering brilliance of Manchester – which is fair enough ; it ’ s a great city ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , bandy-legged gait thing ... we take the p*** out of ourselves .
Mancunians wax-lyrical about The Hacienda – Brummies wax-lyrical about Mr Egg ( a greasy spoon cafe that was open when everyone left the pubs and clubs in the early hours… ) That ’ s not to say we haven ’ t had culturally significant music venues or clubs – we ’ d just prefer to celebrate Mr Egg .
`` Outside of London , I feel that Birmingham is unparalleled in the sheer diversity of its contributions to British culture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ influence of so many heritages has enriched our lives immeasurably – be it in the music , the art , the food – and this is what I am most proud of about Birmingham .
`` This collage was certainly the most time consuming piece of work I ’ ve ever done – but it was also the most fun to research and execute .
The final composition is a massive celebration of the diversity of the city . ''
Comedian Joe Lycett is among the cast featured - a role that gives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bleak and brummies are funny .
And therefore brummies are beautiful .
`` It ’ s no coincidence that Cold War Steve emerged from here .
His work embodies the beautiful Birmingham bleak .
It resonates because the bleakness is totally recognisable .
`` We live in a bleak city , in a bleak country , in a bleak world .
There ’ s loads of unbleak stuff too , of course , but we don ’ t really bother with that .
`` When London , Manchester and others gas on about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole areas of their cities that are absolute swipes of p*** , they miss a trick : the magic is in the bleak .
`` There ’ s loads to shout about in Birmingham – the food , the music , the art , the comedy , the people , the fact that we are a blueprint for how different cultures can live together – but what ’ s funny and beautiful about that ?
How crass .
`` Our city is a totally bleak dump .
We love it . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was thrilled to be included in the montage by an artist she loved .
`` I ’ ve followed Cold War Steve for ages on Twitter , loving and ‘ liking ’ his irreverent poke at politicians and celebrities , posing them out of context and somehow into a sort of truth , showing us who they are or could be and always with the addition of Phil from Eastenders .
Why him ?
I don ’ t know .
`` In this picture of Birmingham I recognise so many people I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worshipped , admired , people I never knew were from my home town but am delighted to find them here .
There ’ s a Rotunda sized Benny from Crossroads , my childhood soap opera who drank in Digbeth with my sister and friends .
Actors , musicians , politicians , sportsmen and women , people off the telly and some off the planet now , dead and missed .
`` But what made me smile the most were the landmarks , the Mr .
Egg café , only a Brummie of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the huge Mosque in Balsall Heath , Spaghetti junction , the HP Sauce Tower in Aston and the brutalist Central Library bulldozed for one that can barely open because of government cuts , '' added Kit .
`` In this picture are my trips to school and the places we passed on the bus , here are my teenage years , Mr. Blue Sky and the shops I found when I wagged school at thirteen .
Here is my now and always , Chinatown , St. Martin ’ s Church , Sikhs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together always .
`` This is my Birmingham and my tribe . ''
Emalee Beddoes-Davis , curator of Modern and Contemporary Art for Birmingham Museums Trust , said it was a collaborative project born out of a shared love for the city .
`` Chris ( Cold War Steve ) has been incredibly generous with his time and creative energy , making the most complex photocollage of his career to date , celebrating the city .
`` I hope it makes people feel good about our city , makes people laugh and inspires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to their own creativity in these times . ''
The exhibition also features a showcase of artists celebrated in the montage , and a film created by Birmingham artist Martin McNally , aka Mixed Milk .
More work will be released online in the coming weeks .
Follow Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery online for new releases .
The exhibition was commissioned last year , pre-Covid-19 , as a way to celebrate the musuem 's free online Digital Image Resource .

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An incredible montage showcasing Birmingham and its icons, past and present, is now on display at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery - in virtual form.
Brummie artist Christopher Spence, better known as 'Cold War Steve', has crafted a giant love letter to Birmingham in the form of an intricate montage titled Benny's Babbies.
Among its cast of characters is a Rotunda-sized Benny from iconic soap Crossroads, looming over the scene - but look carefully and you'll spy a supporting cast of artists, writers, musicians, activists and politicians from across the ages.
There's Bob Carolgees and Spit the dog, Musical Youth and Malala Yousafzai, Black Sabbath, Alison Hammond and former mayor Yvonne Mosquito, among dozens more, all set in a landscape of iconic Brummie buildings of yesterday and today.
The artwork is the main attraction in an exhibition, called Cut, Copy, Remix, that had been due to launch at Birmingham Art Museum and Gallery this weekend but instead has been launched online in a collaboration with The Social Gathering.
Cold War Steve, celebrated for his witty satire and politically-motivated montages, often starring Phil from Eastenders or Cilla Black, said it was the pinnacle of his artistic life.
Explaining the motivation for his work, he said: "Birmingham is never championed or celebrated for its contribution to British cultural history. It’s that ugly city between London and Manchester, where everyone sounds thick and probably smells of crisps and Bullseye.
"Countless programmes, books and magazines extoll the swaggering brilliance of Manchester – which is fair enough; it’s a great city...Birmingham doesn’t have that self-assured, bandy-legged gait thing...we take the p*** out of ourselves. Mancunians wax-lyrical about The Hacienda – Brummies wax-lyrical about Mr Egg (a greasy spoon cafe that was open when everyone left the pubs and clubs in the early hours…) That’s not to say we haven’t had culturally significant music venues or clubs – we’d just prefer to celebrate Mr Egg.
"Outside of London, I feel that Birmingham is unparalleled in the sheer diversity of its contributions to British culture. A multicultural city, where the influence of so many heritages has enriched our lives immeasurably – be it in the music, the art, the food – and this is what I am most proud of about Birmingham.
"This collage was certainly the most time consuming piece of work I’ve ever done – but it was also the most fun to research and execute. The final composition is a massive celebration of the diversity of the city."
Comedian Joe Lycett is among the cast featured - a role that gives him immeasureable pride.
"Brummies are bleak and brummies are funny. And therefore brummies are beautiful.
"It’s no coincidence that Cold War Steve emerged from here. His work embodies the beautiful Birmingham bleak. It resonates because the bleakness is totally recognisable.
"We live in a bleak city, in a bleak country, in a bleak world. There’s loads of unbleak stuff too, of course, but we don’t really bother with that.
"When London, Manchester and others gas on about how excellent they are, often ignoring the whole areas of their cities that are absolute swipes of p***, they miss a trick: the magic is in the bleak.
"There’s loads to shout about in Birmingham – the food, the music, the art, the comedy, the people, the fact that we are a blueprint for how different cultures can live together – but what’s funny and beautiful about that? How crass.
"Our city is a totally bleak dump. We love it."
Celebrated author Kit de Waal said she was thrilled to be included in the montage by an artist she loved.
"I’ve followed Cold War Steve for ages on Twitter, loving and ‘liking’ his irreverent poke at politicians and celebrities, posing them out of context and somehow into a sort of truth, showing us who they are or could be and always with the addition of Phil from Eastenders. Why him? I don’t know.
"In this picture of Birmingham I recognise so many people I’ve danced to, sung with, worshipped, admired, people I never knew were from my home town but am delighted to find them here. There’s a Rotunda sized Benny from Crossroads, my childhood soap opera who drank in Digbeth with my sister and friends. Actors, musicians, politicians, sportsmen and women, people off the telly and some off the planet now, dead and missed.
"But what made me smile the most were the landmarks, the Mr. Egg café, only a Brummie of a certain age would know that one, the huge Mosque in Balsall Heath, Spaghetti junction, the HP Sauce Tower in Aston and the brutalist Central Library bulldozed for one that can barely open because of government cuts," added Kit.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
"In this picture are my trips to school and the places we passed on the bus, here are my teenage years, Mr. Blue Sky and the shops I found when I wagged school at thirteen. Here is my now and always, Chinatown, St. Martin’s Church, Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, all nations standing together always.
"This is my Birmingham and my tribe."
Emalee Beddoes-Davis, curator of Modern and Contemporary Art for Birmingham Museums Trust, said it was a collaborative project born out of a shared love for the city.
"Chris (Cold War Steve) has been incredibly generous with his time and creative energy, making the most complex photocollage of his career to date, celebrating the city.
"I hope it makes people feel good about our city, makes people laugh and inspires people to look to the past and to their own creativity in these times."
The exhibition also features a showcase of artists celebrated in the montage, and a film created by Birmingham artist Martin McNally, aka Mixed Milk. More work will be released online in the coming weeks. Follow Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery online for new releases.
The exhibition was commissioned last year, pre-Covid-19, as a way to celebrate the musuem's free online Digital Image Resource.


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Philip Philip, 98, issues unprecedented statement over coronavirus pandemic

The Duke of Edinburgh has made a rare public statement , praising those tackling the coronavirus pandemic across the UK and keeping essential services running .
Philip , 98 , who retired from public duties in 2017 , said he wanted to recognise the `` vital and urgent '' medical and scientific work taking place .
In his message , the duke also gave thanks to key workers including those involved in food production and distribution , refuge collection and postal and delivery services .
Philip , in his message published on the royal family 's social media channels , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Immunisation Week , I wanted to recognise the vital and urgent work being done by so many to tackle the pandemic ; by those in the medical and scientific professions , at universities and research institutions , all united in working to protect us from Covid-19 . ''
The Queen 's consort continued : `` On behalf of those of us who remain safe and at home , I also wanted to thank all key workers who ensure the infrastructure of our life continues ; the staff and volunteers working in food production @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery services going , and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected . ''
His comments come after Prince Charles , Prince of Wales , was diagnosed with Covid-19 before making a full recovery from the deadly bug .

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The Duke of Edinburgh has made a rare public statement, praising those tackling the coronavirus pandemic across the UK and keeping essential services running.
Philip, 98, who retired from public duties in 2017, said he wanted to recognise the "vital and urgent" medical and scientific work taking place.
In his message, the duke also gave thanks to key workers including those involved in food production and distribution, refuge collection and postal and delivery services.
Philip, in his message published on the royal family's social media channels, said: "As we approach World Immunisation Week, I wanted to recognise the vital and urgent work being done by so many to tackle the pandemic; by those in the medical and scientific professions, at universities and research institutions, all united in working to protect us from Covid-19."
The Queen's consort continued: "On behalf of those of us who remain safe and at home, I also wanted to thank all key workers who ensure the infrastructure of our life continues; the staff and volunteers working in food production and distribution, those keeping postal and delivery services going, and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected."
His comments come after Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, was diagnosed with Covid-19 before making a full recovery from the deadly bug.


birminghammail--2020-04-20--MPs to challenge Ministers over their handling of coronavirus crisis

Parliament will resume its work this week and questions about the Government 's handling of the coronavirus crisis are top of the agenda .
MPs have continued to question Ministers over the Easter break , and Health Secretary Matt Hancock was quizzed by the Commons Health Committee on Friday .
But scrutiny will be stepped up when the House of Commons resumes sitting on Tuesday April 21 , and on the days that follow .
The Digital , Culture , Media and Sport Committee , chaired by Solihull MP Julian Knight ( Con ) , is to question Culture Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look at include how the Government is tackling the spread of misinformation and disinformation about coronavirus ; the impact of the lockdown on sport and cultural organisations ; issues arising from personal data use in areas such as contact tracing , and the role of public service broadcasters during the crisis .
The Commons Defence Committee , including Warley MP John Spellar ( Lab ) , is to ask the Defence Secretary and Ministry of Defence officials about their role in mitigating the Covid-19 crisis and the wider security threats that may emerge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Business , Energy and Industrial Strategy ( BEIS ) Committee is to question Business Secretary Alok Sharma about the steps the Government is taking to save jobs .
Committee members include Wolverhampton South East MP Pat McFadden ( Lab ) and Rugby MP Mark Pawsey ( Con ) .
The Housing , Communities and Local Government Committee , including Shrewsbury MP Daniel Kawczynski , has launched an inquiry into the impact of the Covid-19 crisis on the homelessness , rough sleeping and the private rented sector .
The Treasury Committee is looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and lockdown on the economy and will question Stephen Barclay , Chief Secretary to the Treasury .
The Home Affairs Committee is looking at the Home Office 's response to the crisis including the role of the police , and is to examine fears that abusers have used the lockdown to increase domestic violence , Committee hearings will also provide a chance for other people and organisations to give evidence to MPs in an official setting .
These could include businesses , local councils , charities and NHS managers .
Although some MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hearings are likely to take place over video-lin .
The end of the Easter recess also means that there will once again be a weekly opportunity for MPs to question Prime inister Boris Johnson though it remains to be seen whether Mr Johnson will be well enough to answer questions this Thursday .
He is still recovering from coronavirus and is not currently working .
His stand-in , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab , could answer questions in his place .
Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle and representatives of the main parties have agreed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time to take part in proceedings virtually , while around 50 could sit on the green benches in the Chamber .
Government Minister Jacob Rees-Mogg , the Leader of the Commons , said : “ These measures will make it possible for Parliament to continue its work of conducting scrutiny , authorising spending and making laws - all of which are essential to tackling coronavirus .
`` I am extremely grateful to Mr Speaker , for showing the leadership necessary to make this happen ; to the parties , who have worked together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business will run smoothly with the minimal necessary attendance in Westminster ; and to House staff , for working so hard over the Easter break to make these changes technically possible . ''

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Parliament will resume its work this week and questions about the Government's handling of the coronavirus crisis are top of the agenda.
MPs have continued to question Ministers over the Easter break, and Health Secretary Matt Hancock was quizzed by the Commons Health Committee on Friday.
But scrutiny will be stepped up when the House of Commons resumes sitting on Tuesday April 21, and on the days that follow.
The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, chaired by Solihull MP Julian Knight (Con), is to question Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden.
Issues the Committee will look at include how the Government is tackling the spread of misinformation and disinformation about coronavirus; the impact of the lockdown on sport and cultural organisations; issues arising from personal data use in areas such as contact tracing, and the role of public service broadcasters during the crisis.
The Commons Defence Committee, including Warley MP John Spellar (Lab), is to ask the Defence Secretary and Ministry of Defence officials about their role in mitigating the Covid-19 crisis and the wider security threats that may emerge as a result of the pandemic.
The Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee is to question Business Secretary Alok Sharma about the steps the Government is taking to save jobs. Committee members include Wolverhampton South East MP Pat McFadden (Lab) and Rugby MP Mark Pawsey (Con).
The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, including Shrewsbury MP Daniel Kawczynski, has launched an inquiry into the impact of the Covid-19 crisis on the homelessness, rough sleeping and the private rented sector.
The Treasury Committee is looking at the impact of the Covid-19 coronavirus and lockdown on the economy and will question Stephen Barclay, Chief Secretary to the Treasury.
The Home Affairs Committee is looking at the Home Office's response to the crisis including the role of the police, and is to examine fears that abusers have used the lockdown to increase domestic violence,
Committee hearings will also provide a chance for other people and organisations to give evidence to MPs in an official setting. These could include businesses, local councils, charities and NHS managers.
Although some MPs will physically return to Westminster, Committee hearings are likely to take place over video-lin.
The end of the Easter recess also means that there will once again be a weekly opportunity for MPs to question Prime inister Boris Johnson though it remains to be seen whether Mr Johnson will be well enough to answer questions this Thursday. He is still recovering from coronavirus and is not currently working. His stand-in, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, could answer questions in his place.
Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle and representatives of the main parties have agreed that up to 120 MPs at any one time to take part in proceedings virtually, while around 50 could sit on the green benches in the Chamber.
Government Minister Jacob Rees-Mogg, the Leader of the Commons, said: “These measures will make it possible for Parliament to continue its work of conducting scrutiny, authorising spending and making laws - all of which are essential to tackling coronavirus.
"I am extremely grateful to Mr Speaker, for showing the leadership necessary to make this happen; to the parties, who have worked together constructively to ensure next week’s business will run smoothly with the minimal necessary attendance in Westminster; and to House staff, for working so hard over the Easter break to make these changes technically possible."


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Idris Elba says world should quarantine for 7 days each year to mark Covid-19

Idris Elba claims the whole world should come to a standstill for a week every single year after the coronavirus pandemic .
The Luther actor , who also starred in The Wire , spoke out after he contracted Covid-19 last month .
After recovering from the deadly bug , which has claimed the lives of 15,000 Brits so far , Idris discussed the unprecedented health crisis .
The actor discussed the ongoing coronavirus lockdown , with Brits facing three more weeks of a nationwide shutdown .
He said : `` I think that the world should take a week of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
Remember each other .
I really do .
`` I think it's… other species use it , '' he continued .
`` It 's called hibernation .
But it does remind you that the world does n't tick on your time . ''
`` It 's been about six weeks from the beginning to this point right now for us , where it 's essentially our lives turned around , '' he said .
`` Definitely scary and unsettling and nervous .
And I think that 's been like a real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , everyone 's sort of feeling the way we have been feeling , but it has definitely been sort of just a complete upheaval . ''
He said that the period had been `` weird '' because both he and his wife never usually `` sit still '' .
He added : `` But we are both good mentally , trying to stay optimistic .
`` I hope you guys are too , man , keeping yourselves sane and not getting too worried and panicked .
`` Take it from me , man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see the worst of it as an asthmatic but thankfully I came through and you can too . ''
He also praised healthcare workers who are helping with the response to the virus .
`` You lot are amazing and should be fully appreciated , '' he said .
He also told people going through financial hardship as a result of the virus to `` keep your head up '' .

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Idris Elba claims the whole world should come to a standstill for a week every single year after the coronavirus pandemic.
The Luther actor, who also starred in The Wire, spoke out after he contracted Covid-19 last month.
After recovering from the deadly bug, which has claimed the lives of 15,000 Brits so far, Idris discussed the unprecedented health crisis.
The actor discussed the ongoing coronavirus lockdown, with Brits facing three more weeks of a nationwide shutdown.
He said: "I think that the world should take a week of quarantine every year just to remember this time. Remember each other. I really do.
"I think it's… other species use it," he continued.
"It's called hibernation. But it does remind you that the world doesn't tick on your time."
"It's been about six weeks from the beginning to this point right now for us, where it's essentially our lives turned around," he said.
"Definitely scary and unsettling and nervous. And I think that's been like a real collected world experience.
"You know, everyone's sort of feeling the way we have been feeling, but it has definitely been sort of just a complete upheaval."
He said that the period had been "weird" because both he and his wife never usually "sit still".
He added: "But we are both good mentally, trying to stay optimistic.
"I hope you guys are too, man, keeping yourselves sane and not getting too worried and panicked.
"Take it from me, man, I thought I was definitely going to see the worst of it as an asthmatic but thankfully I came through and you can too."
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He also praised healthcare workers who are helping with the response to the virus.
"You lot are amazing and should be fully appreciated," he said.
He also told people going through financial hardship as a result of the virus to "keep your head up".


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Police probe after men fight in road near Kwik Fit

Two men were taken to hospital after a brawl erupted in a Black Country Road – sparking a large emergency response .
Medics and officers dashed to Bearwood Road , Smethwick , following the fight at around 9am on Monday , April 20 .
An eyewitness , who was at the scene , said three ambulance vehicles and two police cars were parked at the scene for around half an hour following the 'road rage ' attack .
One man was taken to hospital , a spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance confirmed .
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of two men fighting in the road near Kwik Fit in Bearwood Road , Smethwick , at just after 9am today ( Monday , April 20 ) .
`` Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information can contact us , quoting log 663 of 20 April , via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 . ''
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service added : `` We were called to Bearwood Road , Smethwick , to reports of an assault at 9.08am on Monday , April 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officer attended the scene .
`` On arrival , crews discovered two patients , both males .
They were both treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to hospital for further assessment . ''
Rizwan Jalil , governor at Birmingham Women 's and Children 's Hospital NHS Trust and area representative , urged residents to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic .
He said : `` In the past weeks we have seen rising death tolls , unprecedented government responses to COVID-19 , and daily life being radically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Many of us have adapted to a life of staying at home .
However , confusingly and alarmingly , we are still seeing breaches of covid19 measures .
`` I would like to take this opportunity to let residents know that this is an important and very crucial time in life where we need to work together to help overcome the difficult and sensitive situation that we are facing .
`` My message is clear stay at home . ''

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Two men were taken to hospital after a brawl erupted in a Black Country Road – sparking a large emergency response.
Medics and officers dashed to Bearwood Road, Smethwick, following the fight at around 9am on Monday, April 20.
An eyewitness, who was at the scene, said three ambulance vehicles and two police cars were parked at the scene for around half an hour following the 'road rage' attack.
One man was taken to hospital, a spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance confirmed.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: “We were called to reports of two men fighting in the road near Kwik Fit in Bearwood Road, Smethwick, at just after 9am today (Monday, April 20).
"Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information can contact us, quoting log 663 of 20 April, via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service added: "We were called to Bearwood Road, Smethwick, to reports of an assault at 9.08am on Monday, April 20.
"Two ambulances and a paramedic officer attended the scene.
"On arrival, crews discovered two patients, both males. They were both treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to hospital for further assessment."
Rizwan Jalil, governor at Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital NHS Trust and area representative, urged residents to stay at home during the coronavirus pandemic.
He said: "In the past weeks we have seen rising death tolls, unprecedented government responses to COVID-19, and daily life being radically altered for much of the world.
"Many of us have adapted to a life of staying at home. However, confusingly and alarmingly, we are still seeing breaches of covid19 measures.
"I would like to take this opportunity to let residents know that this is an important and very crucial time in life where we need to work together to help overcome the difficult and sensitive situation that we are facing.
"My message is clear stay at home."


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Fake Martin Lewis adverts claiming he's dead leave Holly and Phil disgusted

Martin Lewis has spoken out over a sick scam circulating claiming the MoneySavingExpert founder is DEAD .
`` I 'm alive '' - that 's the message from MSE founder Martin , who appeared on This Morning on Monday to discuss the vile ads doing the rounds online .
Mr Lewis , a MoneySavingExpert founder and money-saving guru who is renowned for his financial advice , guidance and tips , appeared on the show today .
He used the edition on Monday , April 20 to speak out over a scam circulating .
He told hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me just for a second while I 'm doing this , I 've just found out that there 's another one of those adverts running on lots of online newspapers today that I 'm dead . ''
The consumer champion , who boasts his own ITV1 show , the Martin Lewis Money Show , also has regular stints on a string of daytime TV favourites .
He can be found on This Morning as well as Good Morning Britain , and Lorraine .
He continued : `` They 're scam adverts using the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is just horrendous at this time .
I clearly have n't , obviously , but just to say , if you see it , please report it as a lot of people are getting very disturbed by it . ''
He added : `` We all need to act together to try and stop these horrendous scammers , this moral turpitude .
`` Right now to be saying someone 's died when they have n't as a form of advertising , it just beggars belief . ''
`` Oh Martin , I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phil added : `` Well , we 're glad you 're okay . ''

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Martin Lewis has spoken out over a sick scam circulating claiming the MoneySavingExpert founder is DEAD.
"I'm alive" - that's the message from MSE founder Martin, who appeared on This Morning on Monday to discuss the vile ads doing the rounds online.
Mr Lewis, a MoneySavingExpert founder and money-saving guru who is renowned for his financial advice, guidance and tips, appeared on the show today.
He used the edition on Monday, April 20 to speak out over a scam circulating.
(Image: ITV)
He told hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby: "If you'll indulge me just for a second while I'm doing this, I've just found out that there's another one of those adverts running on lots of online newspapers today that I'm dead."
The consumer champion, who boasts his own ITV1 show, the Martin Lewis Money Show, also has regular stints on a string of daytime TV favourites.
He can be found on This Morning as well as Good Morning Britain, and Lorraine.
(Image: ITV)
He continued: "They're scam adverts using the fact that I've died, which is just horrendous at this time. I clearly haven't, obviously, but just to say, if you see it, please report it as a lot of people are getting very disturbed by it."
He added: "We all need to act together to try and stop these horrendous scammers, this moral turpitude.
"Right now to be saying someone's died when they haven't as a form of advertising, it just beggars belief."
"Oh Martin, I'm sorry," Holly told him.
Phil added: "Well, we're glad you're okay."


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Alan Shearer sends transfer message over Villa's Jack Grealish

Manchester United 's decision-makers 'need ' to sanction a transfer for Aston Villa star Jack Grealish , according to Alan Shearer .
Grealish has upped his game to a new level on the Premier League stage this season , where was he has scored seven goals and six assists - a better record than any other English midfielder .
That form has drawn interest from United , who witnessed Grealish 's talents first-hand when the 24-year-old starred in a match-of-the-match performance at Old Trafford in December .
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer recently claimed the financial clout his side is able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' selling clubs when trading resumes .
And Shearer believes the signings of Grealish , as well as England stars Harry Kane and Jadon Sancho from Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund respectively , would represent a successful window for United .
`` Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was spot on when he said there could be a number of clubs forced into selling their big players for financial reasons , '' Shearer told The Sun .
`` Whereas the majority will look to survive first before looking at transfer targets , Manchester United are in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial clout , they are in a good position to take advantage in future transfer markets once football is eventually back .
To get anywhere near where they want to be then they need three , possibly four , big signings .
`` I understand the talk of Jadon Sancho , I understand the talk of Harry Kane and I certainly understand the talk of Jack Grealish .
Those three are exactly the types they need if they are to compete at the top again . ''
Everton have also been linked with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under contract until 2023 and thought to be valued at around £70m .

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Manchester United's decision-makers 'need' to sanction a transfer for Aston Villa star Jack Grealish, according to Alan Shearer.
Grealish has upped his game to a new level on the Premier League stage this season, where was he has scored seven goals and six assists - a better record than any other English midfielder.
That form has drawn interest from United, who witnessed Grealish's talents first-hand when the 24-year-old starred in a match-of-the-match performance at Old Trafford in December.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer recently claimed the financial clout his side is able to boast means they could "exploit" selling clubs when trading resumes.
(Image: Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
And Shearer believes the signings of Grealish, as well as England stars Harry Kane and Jadon Sancho from Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund respectively, would represent a successful window for United.
"Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was spot on when he said there could be a number of clubs forced into selling their big players for financial reasons," Shearer told The Sun.
"Whereas the majority will look to survive first before looking at transfer targets, Manchester United are in a different boat.
"And with their financial clout, they are in a good position to take advantage in future transfer markets once football is eventually back. To get anywhere near where they want to be then they need three, possibly four, big signings.
"I understand the talk of Jadon Sancho, I understand the talk of Harry Kane and I certainly understand the talk of Jack Grealish. Those three are exactly the types they need if they are to compete at the top again."
Everton have also been linked with Villa's prized asset, who is under contract until 2023 and thought to be valued at around £70m.


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Suspected booze burglar using 'valuable' hospital bed after warehouse injury

A suspected burglar who injured himself trying to flee a warehouse full of alcohol has been criticised by police for taking up a `` valuable '' hospital bed during the coronavirus outbreak .
West Midlands Police Force Response unit said a man was discovered at a premises in Hockley , near Birmingham city centre .
But when he tried to escape he injured himself .
He was later detained and had to be taken to hospital , police said .
Officers from C team Newtown were part of the operation .
A tweet , which was posted in the early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , read : `` Force Response officers from C team Newtown detained male who was discovered in premises in Hockley trying to burgle warehouse full of alcohol .
Unfortunately male injured himself trying to escape and is now in hospital taking up valuable bed space .
@ birmingham_live @ WMPolice `` BirminghamLive have asked police for further details about the incident .
It follows an incident in Dudley Zoo where police found a suspected burglar allegedly helping himself to beer and wine at its restaurant on March 31 .
A 44-year-old man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restriction of movement during an emergency period .
Last week police in the West Midlands said they have issued 139 fines to people for breaching coronavirus rules .
BirminghamLive have also named and shamed criminals who were jailed in the Midlands last month .

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A suspected burglar who injured himself trying to flee a warehouse full of alcohol has been criticised by police for taking up a "valuable" hospital bed during the coronavirus outbreak.
West Midlands Police Force Response unit said a man was discovered at a premises in Hockley, near Birmingham city centre.
But when he tried to escape he injured himself. He was later detained and had to be taken to hospital, police said.
Officers from C team Newtown were part of the operation.
A tweet, which was posted in the early hours of this morning (April 20), read: "Force Response officers from C team Newtown detained male who was discovered in premises in Hockley trying to burgle warehouse full of alcohol. Unfortunately male injured himself trying to escape and is now in hospital taking up valuable bed space. @birmingham_live @WMPolice "
BirminghamLive have asked police for further details about the incident.
It follows an incident in Dudley Zoo where police found a suspected burglar allegedly helping himself to beer and wine at its restaurant on March 31.
A 44-year-old man was charged with burglary and contravening a restriction of movement during an emergency period.
Last week police in the West Midlands said they have issued 139 fines to people for breaching coronavirus rules.
BirminghamLive have also named and shamed criminals who were jailed in the Midlands last month.


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Beauty queen 'threatened' after huge turnout to hospital performance

A beauty queen claims she 's received threats following a controversial Clap for Carers performance outside a Dudley hospital .
Alexandra Darby had hoped to boost morale and raise cash for the Dudley Group NHS Charity by singing to staff in the car park at Russells Hall Hospital ahead of the weekly applause on Thursday evening , April 16 .
But her well-meaning appearance attracted a huge crowd - leaving social media awash with people outraged about the lack of social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic .
There were also complaints about her song choice - with Tina Turner 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I 'd rather be dead '' .
The singer , who was crowned Miss Black Country in 2018 , was left distraught by the backlash surrounding her performance , which raised £360 for the hospital charity .
Apologising for any offence caused , she said : `` My intentions were never in a million years to offend anyone .
`` Originally I was singing on my drive from home to raise funds for the Dudley Group NHS Charity - I have always been a patron for charity work and in these unprecedented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to our amazing NHS .
`` I was approached via a nurse at Russells Hall Hospital , who asked me if I would sing outside the hospital to boost morale for NHS workers as she saw I was singing on my drive originally .
She thought it would be a nice idea to boost morale at the hospital .
`` The hospital admin staff cleared this and thought it would be a great idea .
I rang on Thursday morning to double check it was still OK and the hospital cleared this .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ via her Facebook page saying the performance would be live streamed to allow people to watch from home .
She said : `` I made it very clear to the general public if they wanted to support the Clap for Carers to tune into the live stream and this event was for NHS staff who were on shift that night only .
`` My vision of the evening was I would be singing from the main car park to the building of the hospital ten minutes before the clap and staff would watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ward windows , adhering to social distancing measures .
`` Upon arrival at around 7.15pm , there were a few ambulances lining up , as they always do , and the admin team told me they wanted me right outside the emergency department .
At this point there was hardly anyone out .
`` I already had my equipment set up in the car and took my own plug which attached to my car battery so I did not have to go into the hospital for any reason .
`` I set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There was staff standing by the emergency department doors and I presumed they would be staying there while I performed .
`` After around ten minutes the car park was full of NHS staff , police , fire service and blood bikers .
I sang two songs prior to the 8pm Clap for Carers and a song straight after the clap .
`` The three-minute clip circulating does show a lack of social distancing , unfortunately I did not expect a crowd like this and made it very clear that people should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were never to cause a mass gathering , I clearly made the general public aware to support this and to donate and asked them to please stay at home and watch via the live stream link .
`` I can not put across how sorry I am if I have offended anyone .
My intentions were pure and I just wanted to raise some funds for the NHS charity and boost morale to staff on shift . ''
It was n't just the lack of social distancing that sparked concern online - some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turner 's hit Simply the Best , suggesting the line ' I 'd rather be dead ' was inappropriate .
`` I sang Simply the Best to tell the NHS they are 'simply the best ' , '' Alexandra said .
`` My intentions were never to offend anyone by using this song choice and I am really sorry if I have or if the words were not fitting . ''
Alexandra also said she had removed herself from Facebook after `` receiving a lot of abusive messages and threats '' .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am just one girl and still have feelings .
I know a lot of people think I made a mistake doing what I did but my intentions were pure and had I have thought I was going to offend people I would never have done this .
`` I wish everyone the best and again would like to thank our amazing NHS staff . ''
Diane Wake , chief executive of Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust , which runs Russells Hall Hospital , said : `` We are overwhelmed by the support being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how people want to demonstrate this support for their hospital .
`` This is a great source of strength for our staff , however our main concern is that people stay safe , and the best way to help us is to stay at home .
`` Our staff at all levels take a few minutes out of their week each Thursday to share the weekly # Clapforcarers campaign with their colleagues .
This happens at shift handover time , when people are coming to work or leaving the site .
It occurs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country .
`` We are acutely aware of the huge impact this virus is having on our whole country and individuals in our communities , and our condolences go to those who have lost loved ones during this really stressful time .
The loss of any patient is very keenly felt by all those involved in their care .
`` We also have a duty to care for the mental health of our workforce and allow them a time to share in the feelings of goodwill being displayed across the country .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay at home and stay safe . ''
West Midlands Police officers were at the hospital but a spokesman stressed they were on routine patrols and had not attended to join the tribute to NHS staff .
The spokesman said : `` Officers did not attend to join the applause .
They were patrolling around the hospital - which is a key location for police presence during this national health crisis .
`` We 're liaising with Russells Hall and understand the importance for people to respect social distancing .
`` It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be travelling to an NHS facility simply to applaud .
The best way to stay safe is to stay at home . ''

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A beauty queen claims she's received threats following a controversial Clap for Carers performance outside a Dudley hospital.
Alexandra Darby had hoped to boost morale and raise cash for the Dudley Group NHS Charity by singing to staff in the car park at Russells Hall Hospital ahead of the weekly applause on Thursday evening, April 16.
But her well-meaning appearance attracted a huge crowd - leaving social media awash with people outraged about the lack of social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic.
There were also complaints about her song choice - with Tina Turner's Simply The Best containing the lyric: "I'd rather be dead".
The singer, who was crowned Miss Black Country in 2018, was left distraught by the backlash surrounding her performance, which raised £360 for the hospital charity.
Apologising for any offence caused, she said: "My intentions were never in a million years to offend anyone.
"Originally I was singing on my drive from home to raise funds for the Dudley Group NHS Charity - I have always been a patron for charity work and in these unprecedented times, wanted to give something back to our amazing NHS.
"I was approached via a nurse at Russells Hall Hospital, who asked me if I would sing outside the hospital to boost morale for NHS workers as she saw I was singing on my drive originally. She thought it would be a nice idea to boost morale at the hospital.
"The hospital admin staff cleared this and thought it would be a great idea. I rang on Thursday morning to double check it was still OK and the hospital cleared this."
Alexandra said she made an announcement via her Facebook page saying the performance would be live streamed to allow people to watch from home.
(Image: PA)
She said: "I made it very clear to the general public if they wanted to support the Clap for Carers to tune into the live stream and this event was for NHS staff who were on shift that night only.
"My vision of the evening was I would be singing from the main car park to the building of the hospital ten minutes before the clap and staff would watch and record if they wanted to from the ward windows, adhering to social distancing measures.
"Upon arrival at around 7.15pm, there were a few ambulances lining up, as they always do, and the admin team told me they wanted me right outside the emergency department. At this point there was hardly anyone out.
"I already had my equipment set up in the car and took my own plug which attached to my car battery so I did not have to go into the hospital for any reason.
"I set up on my own verge of grass. There was staff standing by the emergency department doors and I presumed they would be staying there while I performed.
"After around ten minutes the car park was full of NHS staff, police, fire service and blood bikers. I sang two songs prior to the 8pm Clap for Carers and a song straight after the clap.
"The three-minute clip circulating does show a lack of social distancing, unfortunately I did not expect a crowd like this and made it very clear that people should stay at home.
"My intentions were never to cause a mass gathering, I clearly made the general public aware to support this and to donate and asked them to please stay at home and watch via the live stream link.
"I cannot put across how sorry I am if I have offended anyone. My intentions were pure and I just wanted to raise some funds for the NHS charity and boost morale to staff on shift."
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It wasn't just the lack of social distancing that sparked concern online - some also criticised the decision to sing Tina Turner's hit Simply the Best, suggesting the line 'I'd rather be dead' was inappropriate.
"I sang Simply the Best to tell the NHS they are 'simply the best'," Alexandra said.
"My intentions were never to offend anyone by using this song choice and I am really sorry if I have or if the words were not fitting."
Alexandra also said she had removed herself from Facebook after "receiving a lot of abusive messages and threats".
She pleaded: "Please remember, I am just one girl and still have feelings. I know a lot of people think I made a mistake doing what I did but my intentions were pure and had I have thought I was going to offend people I would never have done this.
"I wish everyone the best and again would like to thank our amazing NHS staff."
Diane Wake, chief executive of Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Russells Hall Hospital, said: "We are overwhelmed by the support being shown us by our community and understand how people want to demonstrate this support for their hospital.
"This is a great source of strength for our staff, however our main concern is that people stay safe, and the best way to help us is to stay at home.
"Our staff at all levels take a few minutes out of their week each Thursday to share the weekly #Clapforcarers campaign with their colleagues. This happens at shift handover time, when people are coming to work or leaving the site. It occurs at hospitals and trusts up and down the country.
"We are acutely aware of the huge impact this virus is having on our whole country and individuals in our communities, and our condolences go to those who have lost loved ones during this really stressful time. The loss of any patient is very keenly felt by all those involved in their care.
"We also have a duty to care for the mental health of our workforce and allow them a time to share in the feelings of goodwill being displayed across the country.
"Our message to everyone is to stay at home and stay safe."
West Midlands Police officers were at the hospital but a spokesman stressed they were on routine patrols and had not attended to join the tribute to NHS staff.
The spokesman said: "Officers did not attend to join the applause. They were patrolling around the hospital - which is a key location for police presence during this national health crisis.
"We're liaising with Russells Hall and understand the importance for people to respect social distancing.
"It is also important to stress that people should not be travelling to an NHS facility simply to applaud. The best way to stay safe is to stay at home."


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Tamworth headteacher discusses life during lockdown at school

THE headteacher of a Tamworth Primary School says the relationship between staff , parents and children has ‘ sky-rocketed ’ as the town copes with the current lockdown .
Richard Penn-Bourton , head at Three Peaks Primary Academy , says such bonds have been crucial in coming to terms with the coronavirus outbreak , which has seen schools in Tamworth remain open only for the children of key workers .
As with other schools across the town , Three Peaks has been working hard to remain engaged with parents and pupils currently working from home .
An active facebook page @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story time with a teacher , live assemblies and a raft of other activities .
Teachers also call those children not in school once a week .
And Mr Penn-Bourton said : “ We can ’ t do new learning at the moment but what you have to look at ways to give the children different learning experiences .
“ Through various mediums , we have been trying to keep things fresh and inspired in order to engage the children .
“ We have seen it as an opportunity at the school .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I mean is that we have now got the opportunity to engage with parents .
To get them on board is huge .
“ We have put a high emphasis on as much contact with parents as we can .
We see that as the big thing .
“ I think parents are getting a realisation of what it ’ s like in terms of teaching and they can play a key role as much as we can .
“ We are finding hidden talents from them too .
“ The respect we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same time , the feedback they are getting off us , that relationship has sky-rocketed .
“ That ’ s definitely been a hidden benefit of it all .
This situation has helped forge a stronger relationship between school and home .
“ There ’ s certainly more of a bond with the parents and with the children .
“ The pupils are seeing their teachers in a different light , as people , which is nice .
They are the key things I have found.
” Mr Penn-Bourton says that although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of school at present , they will benefit in a lot of ways while the country is on lockdown .
And he believes that it ’ s important that the school remains a strong support for parents and pupils .
“ As a headteacher of a school with 430 kids , you want to make sure that every single one of those children is safe , ” he said .
“ We speak to the children that are away from school at least once a week , a personal phone call to them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in work , they also get a personal response from their teacher .
“ From the children ’ s point of view , it ’ s about managing their concerns .
“ For the ones at home , it can be hard .
“ One of my teachers rang up a child last week and said : “ How are you doing ?
” and they said they were doing okay .
“ Then he asked : Are you missing school ?
And the child burst into tears .
They miss their friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engage with them .
“ With the key worker children we still have in school , they are concerned .
“ They worry about things , about their mum or dad going to work in a hospital .
“ You try to keep them comforted because children are not oblivious to what is going on . ''
“ They understand .
For example , we were outside with the children the other day and an ambulance pulled up by our entrance .
“ The paramedics had parked for a quick break .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started clapping .
“ They wanted to give the paramedics an Easter egg , which we did .
It was lovely.
” For parents having to look after their children at home , Mr Penn-Bourton added it is important to keep a sense of normality to home life .
“ The biggest thing for parents is be real , ” he said .
“ You are not going to be able to replicate a classroom at home and no-one expects that .
“ It ’ s about trying to keep the children engaged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structure because at some point they will have to go back to school .
“ We will have to pick up the learning again and probably , to be fair , at a faster pace to make up for what we have lost but children will do that .
“ I ’ d say , for parents , it ’ s good for them to just foster that engagement , questioning and creativity .
“ You can do that at home in different ways .
“ Of course we are lucky in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resources out there .
For example , a lot of schools use tools such as Times Table Rock Stars which are great . ''
“ But life-skills also benefit the youngsters .
I ’ ve spoken to children who have been fixing a fence with a parent at home or making something different .
“ The amount of cooking that has been done has been great and we say ‘ keep doing it ’ because it ’ s science , it ’ s maths , English , it ’ s questioning , problem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I walked to school and the other day I passed through Belgrave and someone had done a fitness trail for their child .
“ Later on , down the road , someone had done a ‘ We ’ re going on a Bear Hunt ’ and they had drawn it all out in chalk on the path .
It was amazing .
“ It ’ s just doing things in different ways .
“ I ’ m talking primary level here , as that ’ s where I work , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child and work with them constantly for hour after hour after hour , that ’ s intense .
“ At school , you don ’ t get that intensity with a teacher .
In a classroom , the teacher will walk away and allow a child to work on their own and in their own space so they can be individual learners .
They can develop their own interests .
“ The most important thing is trying to maintain that buzz for learning , getting the children doing things because they want to @ @ @ @ @ @

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THE headteacher of a Tamworth Primary School says the relationship between staff, parents and children has ‘sky-rocketed’ as the town copes with the current lockdown.
Richard Penn-Bourton, head at Three Peaks Primary Academy, says such bonds have been crucial in coming to terms with the coronavirus outbreak, which has seen schools in Tamworth remain open only for the children of key workers.
As with other schools across the town, Three Peaks has been working hard to remain engaged with parents and pupils currently working from home.
An active facebook page, for example, includes a daily story time with a teacher, live assemblies and a raft of other activities.
Teachers also call those children not in school once a week.
And Mr Penn-Bourton said: “We can’t do new learning at the moment but what you have to look at ways to give the children different learning experiences.
“Through various mediums, we have been trying to keep things fresh and inspired in order to engage the children.
“We have seen it as an opportunity at the school.
“That might seem strange but what I mean is that we have now got the opportunity to engage with parents. To get them on board is huge.
“We have put a high emphasis on as much contact with parents as we can. We see that as the big thing.
“I think parents are getting a realisation of what it’s like in terms of teaching and they can play a key role as much as we can.
“We are finding hidden talents from them too.
“The respect we are getting off them and, at the same time, the feedback they are getting off us, that relationship has sky-rocketed.
“That’s definitely been a hidden benefit of it all. This situation has helped forge a stronger relationship between school and home.
“There’s certainly more of a bond with the parents and with the children.
“The pupils are seeing their teachers in a different light, as people, which is nice. They are the key things I have found.”
Mr Penn-Bourton says that although children are not facing the daily routine of school at present, they will benefit in a lot of ways while the country is on lockdown.
And he believes that it’s important that the school remains a strong support for parents and pupils.
“As a headteacher of a school with 430 kids, you want to make sure that every single one of those children is safe,” he said.
“We speak to the children that are away from school at least once a week, a personal phone call to them.
“And when the children email in work, they also get a personal response from their teacher.
“From the children’s point of view, it’s about managing their concerns.
“For the ones at home, it can be hard.
“One of my teachers rang up a child last week and said: “How are you doing?” and they said they were doing okay.
“Then he asked: Are you missing school? And the child burst into tears. They miss their friends and so it’s important we engage with them.
“With the key worker children we still have in school, they are concerned.
“They worry about things, about their mum or dad going to work in a hospital.
“You try to keep them comforted because children are not oblivious to what is going on."
“They understand. For example, we were outside with the children the other day and an ambulance pulled up by our entrance.
“The paramedics had parked for a quick break. The children just ran over to them and started clapping.
“They wanted to give the paramedics an Easter egg, which we did. It was lovely.”
For parents having to look after their children at home, Mr Penn-Bourton added it is important to keep a sense of normality to home life.
“The biggest thing for parents is be real,” he said. “You are not going to be able to replicate a classroom at home and no-one expects that.
“It’s about trying to keep the children engaged in learning and keep a bit of structure because at some point they will have to go back to school.
“We will have to pick up the learning again and probably, to be fair, at a faster pace to make up for what we have lost but children will do that.
“I’d say, for parents, it’s good for them to just foster that engagement, questioning and creativity.
“You can do that at home in different ways.
“Of course we are lucky in the sense there are a lot of great resources out there. For example, a lot of schools use tools such as Times Table Rock Stars which are great."
“But life-skills also benefit the youngsters. I’ve spoken to children who have been fixing a fence with a parent at home or making something different.
“Parents have been imaginative.
“The amount of cooking that has been done has been great and we say ‘keep doing it’ because it’s science, it’s maths, English, it’s questioning, problem solving. They are all key things.
“I walked to school and the other day I passed through Belgrave and someone had done a fitness trail for their child.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“Later on, down the road, someone had done a ‘We’re going on a Bear Hunt’ and they had drawn it all out in chalk on the path. It was amazing.
“It’s just doing things in different ways.
“I’m talking primary level here, as that’s where I work, but if you try to sit with a child and work with them constantly for hour after hour after hour, that’s intense.
“At school, you don’t get that intensity with a teacher. In a classroom, the teacher will walk away and allow a child to work on their own and in their own space so they can be individual learners. They can develop their own interests.
“The most important thing is trying to maintain that buzz for learning, getting the children doing things because they want to know and understand more.”


birminghammail--2020-04-20--KFC's savage response to Iceland's fakeaway range has internet in hysterics

KFC has issued a brutal jibe at Iceland over the frozen food retailer 's copycat fried chicken range .
Iceland took to social media to promote its fries , chicken and soft drink products amid the coronavirus lockdown .
The promo from the frozen food retailer , which operates stores across Birmingham , comes as the pandemic sees fast food stores shut .
KFC has closed restaurants across the UK - but kept one in Birmingham , and one in Staffordshire open .
The local branches are still operating with social distancing measures imposed .
And Brits face the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' at home , using supermarket products .
KFC , McDonald 's , Greggs and even Ikea have shared recipes on how to make their iconic products .
But KFC has taken issue with Iceland 's latest Instagram Story .
The supermarket posted an image of bags of frozen fries , chicken popsters , chicken thighs and chicken tenders .
They accompanied the frozen goods with corn on the cobs and a big bottle of Pepsi .
But KFC was n't impressed with the alternative to its products , writing : `` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The savage response was met with acclaim from followers , with 700 retweets and thousands of likes at the time of writing .

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KFC has issued a brutal jibe at Iceland over the frozen food retailer's copycat fried chicken range.
Iceland took to social media to promote its fries, chicken and soft drink products amid the coronavirus lockdown.
The promo from the frozen food retailer, which operates stores across Birmingham, comes as the pandemic sees fast food stores shut.
KFC has closed restaurants across the UK - but kept one in Birmingham, and one in Staffordshire open.
The local branches are still operating with social distancing measures imposed.
And Brits face the coronavirus lockdown, many have been having 'fakeaways' at home, using supermarket products.
KFC, McDonald's, Greggs and even Ikea have shared recipes on how to make their iconic products.
But KFC has taken issue with Iceland's latest Instagram Story.
The supermarket posted an image of bags of frozen fries, chicken popsters, chicken thighs and chicken tenders.
They accompanied the frozen goods with corn on the cobs and a big bottle of Pepsi.
"Missing KFC?" Iceland asked followers, adding: "We've got the answer."
But KFC wasn't impressed with the alternative to its products, writing: "This is why my mum goes to Tesco."
The savage response was met with acclaim from followers, with 700 retweets and thousands of likes at the time of writing.


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Free laptops for home school kids in lockdown - here's how to apply

Free laptops will be given to British kids currently being home schooled at homes up and down the country .
Children being home schooled while the coronavirus lockdown continues are also able to get access to free tablets , too .
The tech devices are being offered to children from `` disadvantaged '' backgrounds , according to the government .
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues , Brits are being told to stay indoors , with schools shut by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in mid-March .
A month on , there remains no date for the re-opening of schools , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Williamson apologised to pupils for the interruption to their studies and said there are no plans to open schools in England over the summer holidays .
He said 4G routers will be provided to ensure disadvantaged secondary school pupils and care leavers can access the internet where their families do not already have mobile or broadband internet .
The Oak National Academy will launch on Monday , having been created by 40 teachers from some of the leading schools in England in less than a fortnight .
Its 180 video lessons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of subjects including maths , arts and languages for pupils ranging in age from reception to Year 10 .
Electronic devices will be ordered for pupils `` in the most vital stages of their education for those who receive support from a social worker and care leavers '' , the Department for Education ( DfE ) said .
Young people will be eligible for the devices if they do not already have one and either have a social worker or are care leavers , or are disadvantaged children in year 10 , ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said schools and colleges will be able to keep the laptops and tablets once they reopen .
The Government said it would also make funding of £1.6 million available immediately for the NSPCC to expand and promote its national helpline for adults .
Peter Wanless , chief executive of the NSPCC , said : `` The NSPCC Helpline is a crucial cog in the child protection system , last year we responded to almost 73,000 contacts from people with concerns about a child 's welfare .
`` At a time when there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but teachers and social workers ' access to them is more limited , we must all play our part in recognising the signs of abuse and neglect and be sure to report any concerns . ''
Becca Lyon , Save the Children 's head of child poverty , said : `` Additional online support for all children to continue their learning will help many , but those without access to the internet will still be missing out .
Extending router availability to the families of younger children in poverty will ensure children continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their development . ''
Polling of teachers and parents published by the Sutton Trust found over half of students in independent schools take part in online lessons every day , two and a half times as often as their state school contemporaries .
It said the gap was largely explained by access to resources , as independent schools - as well as state ones in more affluent areas - were more likely to have existing online platforms allowing them to broadcast classes online , or receive work submitted by a class .
Sutton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lampl , said : `` The widening of the attainment gap over these next few months threatens to have negative implications for years to come .
It is crucial we do all we can to address inequalities through high quality tuition and access to technology . ''
Mr Williamson told the daily Downing Street press conference on Sunday that five tests must be met before English schools can re-open , '' People are anxious to know when we 're going to relax restrictions , when schools are likely to be fully back and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Of course , I want nothing more than to see schools back , get them back to normal , make sure the children are sat around , learning , and experiencing the joy of being at school .
`` But I ca n't give you a date .
Because before we do , we need to meet five tests . ''
They include protecting the NHS 's ability to cope , seeing daily death rates come down , and having reliable data that shows the rate of infection is decreasing to manageable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said there also must be confidence that any changes do not risk a second peak of infections .
He added : `` There are currently no plans to have schools open over the summer period and we have n't been working on plans to have them open over the summer period . ''

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Free laptops will be given to British kids currently being home schooled at homes up and down the country.
Children being home schooled while the coronavirus lockdown continues are also able to get access to free tablets, too.
The tech devices are being offered to children from "disadvantaged" backgrounds, according to the government.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, Brits are being told to stay indoors, with schools shut by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in mid-March.
A month on, there remains no date for the re-opening of schools, according to Education Secretary Gavin Williamson on Sunday.
Mr Williamson apologised to pupils for the interruption to their studies and said there are no plans to open schools in England over the summer holidays.
He said 4G routers will be provided to ensure disadvantaged secondary school pupils and care leavers can access the internet where their families do not already have mobile or broadband internet.
(Image: Peter Byrne/PA Wire)
The Oak National Academy will launch on Monday, having been created by 40 teachers from some of the leading schools in England in less than a fortnight.
Its 180 video lessons per week will cover a broad range of subjects including maths, arts and languages for pupils ranging in age from reception to Year 10.
Electronic devices will be ordered for pupils "in the most vital stages of their education for those who receive support from a social worker and care leavers", the Department for Education (DfE) said.
Young people will be eligible for the devices if they do not already have one and either have a social worker or are care leavers, or are disadvantaged children in year 10, ahead of GCSEs next year.
(Image: Shared Content Unit)
The DfE said schools and colleges will be able to keep the laptops and tablets once they reopen.
The Government said it would also make funding of £1.6 million available immediately for the NSPCC to expand and promote its national helpline for adults.
Peter Wanless, chief executive of the NSPCC, said: "The NSPCC Helpline is a crucial cog in the child protection system, last year we responded to almost 73,000 contacts from people with concerns about a child's welfare.
"At a time when there are increased risks of harm to vulnerable children but teachers and social workers' access to them is more limited, we must all play our part in recognising the signs of abuse and neglect and be sure to report any concerns."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Becca Lyon, Save the Children's head of child poverty, said: "Additional online support for all children to continue their learning will help many, but those without access to the internet will still be missing out. Extending router availability to the families of younger children in poverty will ensure children continue to learn at a critical point in their development."
Polling of teachers and parents published by the Sutton Trust found over half of students in independent schools take part in online lessons every day, two and a half times as often as their state school contemporaries.
It said the gap was largely explained by access to resources, as independent schools - as well as state ones in more affluent areas - were more likely to have existing online platforms allowing them to broadcast classes online, or receive work submitted by a class.
Sutton Trust founder and chairman, Sir Peter Lampl, said: "The widening of the attainment gap over these next few months threatens to have negative implications for years to come. It is crucial we do all we can to address inequalities through high quality tuition and access to technology."
Mr Williamson told the daily Downing Street press conference on Sunday that five tests must be met before English schools can re-open,
"People are anxious to know when we're going to relax restrictions, when schools are likely to be fully back and open again," he said.
"Of course, I want nothing more than to see schools back, get them back to normal, make sure the children are sat around, learning, and experiencing the joy of being at school.
"But I can't give you a date. Because before we do, we need to meet five tests."
They include protecting the NHS's ability to cope, seeing daily death rates come down, and having reliable data that shows the rate of infection is decreasing to manageable levels, he said.
Mr Williamson said there also must be confidence that any changes do not risk a second peak of infections.
He added: "There are currently no plans to have schools open over the summer period and we haven't been working on plans to have them open over the summer period."


birminghammail--2020-04-20--ADVERTORIAL: Find out why this man switched from Formula 1 to producing CBD

It ’ s not every day that someone decides to switch from a career at the top of international motorsport to producing cannabis .
But , despite a new generation raised on Breaking Bad , things are not exactly what they seem .
The latest wellbeing trend is CBD , and , if the rapidly-expanding market in America is anything to judge by , it ’ s set to take Britain by storm .
First of all , what is it ?
CBD stands for cannabidiol : a naturally-occurring element found in the hemp plant , which bonds with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reactions to pain and emotion .
The receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system : a biological system that scientists are only just finding out more about – but could hold the key to feelings of wellbeing .
The beauty of CBD is that it can be taken in all sorts of forms : drops , rubs , gummy sweets , and of course e-liquids .
E-liquids can be vaped just like any other form of e-cigarettes , but what makes ULU ’ s e-liquids unique is that they don ’ t contain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high concentration of pure CBD , which can reduce symptoms of pain and anxiety while delivering a sense of calm and wellbeing .
Don ’ t associate it with marijuana or cannabis though : while CBD comes from the same plant , it ’ s entirely different .
CBD is the natural extract that doesn ’ t contain any THC : the psychoactive element in cannabis that gets you high .
As a result , CBD is entirely legal and safe for use at any time , whereas any product that contains THC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s the connection with international motorsport ?
Paul Hembery used to work at the very top of world motorsport , before opening up a new chapter by launching ULU nation this year .
The aim is to sell an innovative range of CBD products with the aim of making hectic lives a little easier .
Or , helping ‘ U love U ’ as he puts it – which is what ULU stands for .
So how did he get from F1 to CBD ?
“ When you see Formula 1 from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 21 races all over the world , and every fraction of a second counts , you begin to understand the sort of pressures that everyone around you is under , even if they don ’ t necessarily show it , ” says Paul .
“ But it ’ s also an environment where there ’ s a lot of positive thinking that can lead to incredible achievements : just look at Lewis Hamilton .
So I thought that if there was a way of bringing these two things together – combatting stress with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to something.
” Among Paul ’ s favourite destinations ( and he ’ s seen a few , having been British Airways ’ sixth-best customer in the world at one point ) is California : possibly because that ’ s also where his wife happens to come from .
It was there that he first came across the Bob Proctor Institute , which specialises in business and life coaching through the power of positive thinking .
It was also in California that he experienced CBD products for the first time , finding that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which was a consequence of his early days playing county level rugby .
“ The more I looked at it , the more I realised that there was the opportunity to combine the benefits of CBD with the message of positivity to improve peoples ’ lives , ” says Paul .
“ And that ’ s really how ULU was born .
Using my experience of motorsport and the corporate world , we were able to come up with a range of CBD products specifically targeted at people who lead hectic and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with those everyday strains better .
You only get one life , so you have to live it to the full and love it .
That might sound like an obvious point , but it doesn ’ t make it any less true.
” With ULU , Paul Hembery is bringing a bit of Californian blue-sky thinking to the UK .
There are a number of new products introduced for the company ’ s launch , made in Germany with the same precision and attention to detail that Paul insisted on in grand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ e-liquids , which come in a variety of different flavours , are a good example of ULU ’ s ground-breaking standards , specifically formulated to allow users to maximise the benefits of CBD .
ULU offers only premium CBD in concentrated form to deliver an instantly satisfying experience .
All ULU CBD e-liquids are certified nicotine-free and available in exciting flavours such as blueberry , cinnamon and strawberry , to fit in with your everyday life while delivering new experiences .
All of ULU ’ s e-liquids are also tested by well-known independent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and herbicide-free , with no compromises when it comes to quality and provenance .
And that ’ s what CBD oil has in common with top-class motorsport .
True , it ’ s not exactly a normal story .
But ULU isn ’ t exactly a normal product either .
Have you tried CBD and did it help you ?
ULU would love to hear about the different ways you ’ ve felt the benefits of CBD .
In exchange for a few minutes of your time to make a short video , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ donate the same to MIND or Help for Heroes ) and a six-month supply of ULU products !
Please get in touch with ULU on : Tel .
01242 903 804 or info @ ulu.com To find out more or to view the full range of products that ULU offers , head to the website , ulu.com

It’s not every day that someone decides to switch from a career at the top of international motorsport to producing cannabis. But, despite a new generation raised on Breaking Bad, things are not exactly what they seem.
The latest wellbeing trend is CBD, and, if the rapidly-expanding market in America is anything to judge by, it’s set to take Britain by storm.
First of all, what is it? CBD stands for cannabidiol: a naturally-occurring element found in the hemp plant, which bonds with the body’s receptors that control our reactions to pain and emotion. The receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system: a biological system that scientists are only just finding out more about – but could hold the key to feelings of wellbeing.
The beauty of CBD is that it can be taken in all sorts of forms: drops, rubs, gummy sweets, and of course e-liquids. E-liquids can be vaped just like any other form of e-cigarettes, but what makes ULU’s e-liquids unique is that they don’t contain nicotine.
Instead, they contain a high concentration of pure CBD, which can reduce symptoms of pain and anxiety while delivering a sense of calm and wellbeing. Don’t associate it with marijuana or cannabis though: while CBD comes from the same plant, it’s entirely different.
CBD is the natural extract that doesn’t contain any THC: the psychoactive element in cannabis that gets you high.
As a result, CBD is entirely legal and safe for use at any time, whereas any product that contains THC isn’t.
And what’s the connection with international motorsport?
Paul Hembery used to work at the very top of world motorsport, before opening up a new chapter by launching ULU nation this year. The aim is to sell an innovative range of CBD products with the aim of making hectic lives a little easier. Or, helping ‘U love U’ as he puts it – which is what ULU stands for.
So how did he get from F1 to CBD?
“When you see Formula 1 from the inside, which normally takes place with 21 races all over the world, and every fraction of a second counts, you begin to understand the sort of pressures that everyone around you is under, even if they don’t necessarily show it,” says Paul.
“But it’s also an environment where there’s a lot of positive thinking that can lead to incredible achievements: just look at Lewis Hamilton. So I thought that if there was a way of bringing these two things together – combatting stress with positivity – we might really be on to something.”
Among Paul’s favourite destinations (and he’s seen a few, having been British Airways’ sixth-best customer in the world at one point) is California: possibly because that’s also where his wife happens to come from.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
It was there that he first came across the Bob Proctor Institute, which specialises in business and life coaching through the power of positive thinking. It was also in California that he experienced CBD products for the first time, finding that it helped the pain from his arthritis, which was a consequence of his early days playing county level rugby.
“The more I looked at it, the more I realised that there was the opportunity to combine the benefits of CBD with the message of positivity to improve peoples’ lives,” says Paul.
“And that’s really how ULU was born. Using my experience of motorsport and the corporate world, we were able to come up with a range of CBD products specifically targeted at people who lead hectic and pressurised lives, to help them cope with those everyday strains better. You only get one life, so you have to live it to the full and love it. That might sound like an obvious point, but it doesn’t make it any less true.”
With ULU, Paul Hembery is bringing a bit of Californian blue-sky thinking to the UK. There are a number of new products introduced for the company’s launch, made in Germany with the same precision and attention to detail that Paul insisted on in grand prix racing.
The fresh range of e-liquids, which come in a variety of different flavours, are a good example of ULU’s ground-breaking standards, specifically formulated to allow users to maximise the benefits of CBD. ULU offers only premium CBD in concentrated form to deliver an instantly satisfying experience.
All ULU CBD e-liquids are certified nicotine-free and available in exciting flavours such as blueberry, cinnamon and strawberry, to fit in with your everyday life while delivering new experiences. All of ULU’s e-liquids are also tested by well-known independent laboratories to guarantee that they are pesticide and herbicide-free, with no compromises when it comes to quality and provenance.
And that’s what CBD oil has in common with top-class motorsport. True, it’s not exactly a normal story. But ULU isn’t exactly a normal product either.
Have you tried CBD and did it help you? ULU would love to hear about the different ways you’ve felt the benefits of CBD. In exchange for a few minutes of your time to make a short video, it will give you £200 (or donate the same to MIND or Help for Heroes) and a six-month supply of ULU products! Please get in touch with ULU on: Tel. 01242 903 804 or info@ulu.com
To find out more or to view the full range of products that ULU offers, head to the website, ulu.com


birminghammail--2020-04-20--Aston Villa players on list of 57 potential Premier League free agents

Aston Villa stars are among the list of Premier League players that have been left in limbo by the current lockdown .
Borja Baston and Keinan Davis are the two players currently out of contract on June 30th and face an uncertain future .
They are among 57 players whose future is uncertain and could be one of the reasons the Premier League could end up having to finish early .
They could still both have a key part to play in the relegation scrap and yet no-one has decided what comes next for them .
The players on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for new clubs while their old clubs are budgeting to replace them with new players .
The Professional Footballers ’ Association can not advise them as no-one knows what will happen next other than the ensuing chaos .
The list of first team players becoming free agents is 57 long , but our colleagues at Mirror Sport have been told it could be closer to 80 once you include all their professionals .
FIFA were hoping to just extend the June 30 contract cut off point until whenever the season finishes but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy from a legal point of view .
Lawyers have already suggested those proposals will not stand up in a court of law .
Then what happens if some players want to go even if others are happy to stay ?
It means that suddenly some clubs are at a huge disadvantage and that would be seen as grossly unfair if some clubs are deprived of key players .
Clubs all submitted squad lists at the start of the season , they were able to change them in January and now that element @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappear - and that is where the whole thing collapses .
The underlying worry from clubs is that even if the players are able to sign short term deals , will it affect the integrity of the league with players stuck in limbo .
Either consciously or subconsciously , they may have lost their focus and the 57 players out of contract may be thinking about their futures , what next or getting injured rather than what is happening right now .
It is why June 30 has become such an important date @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some flexibility , there will not be much .
Currently , contracts already state clubs carry on paying players for another 28 days after their deals expire or make up the difference if they sign a deal elsewhere for less .
But the notion that the free agents would just carry on until mid-August or even August 29 ( the date of the Champions League final ) seems incredibly far fetched .
It is why some clubs simply do not believe that the current season can be extended indefinitely and why they have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ date because of the chaos which could follow next .
Leading sports lawyer Simon Leaf , Head of Sport at Mishcon de Reya , said : “ `` Inevitably , individual clubs will be looking at the different scenarios that are on the table .
“ They ’ ll need to make a difficult judgment call as to what would be in their best interests , given not only their current league position , but also where they stand under their individual and collective commercial contracts with players and external third parties .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t be possible to force players to continue to play beyond the 30th June date , which has received so much attention recently , nor would it be possible force them into taking wage cuts or deferrals – both of which could be frustrating for many clubs .
`` For now , it looks as though clubs will continue to voluntarily ask players to take such steps .
However , clubs , players and agents will be all too aware that there are strict FIFA regulations that apply internationally , which prevents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this way .
“ We could end up seeing clubs not only facing censure from the football authorities but also players legitimately being able to walk away from their contracts and joining other clubs early as a result of such pressure .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (John Cross, Steve Wollaston)

Aston Villa stars are among the list of Premier League players that have been left in limbo by the current lockdown.
Borja Baston and Keinan Davis are the two players currently out of contract on June 30th and face an uncertain future.
They are among 57 players whose future is uncertain and could be one of the reasons the Premier League could end up having to finish early.
They could still both have a key part to play in the relegation scrap and yet no-one has decided what comes next for them.
The players on the free agents list could all potentially leave for new clubs while their old clubs are budgeting to replace them with new players.
The Professional Footballers’ Association cannot advise them as no-one knows what will happen next other than the ensuing chaos. The list of first team players becoming free agents is 57 long, but our colleagues at Mirror Sport have been told it could be closer to 80 once you include all their professionals.
FIFA were hoping to just extend the June 30 contract cut off point until whenever the season finishes but the reality is that it is not that easy from a legal point of view. Lawyers have already suggested those proposals will not stand up in a court of law.
Then what happens if some players want to go even if others are happy to stay? It means that suddenly some clubs are at a huge disadvantage and that would be seen as grossly unfair if some clubs are deprived of key players.
Clubs all submitted squad lists at the start of the season, they were able to change them in January and now that element of a level playing field could suddenly disappear - and that is where the whole thing collapses.
The underlying worry from clubs is that even if the players are able to sign short term deals, will it affect the integrity of the league with players stuck in limbo.
Either consciously or subconsciously, they may have lost their focus and the 57 players out of contract may be thinking about their futures, what next or getting injured rather than what is happening right now.
It is why June 30 has become such an important date and, even if there may be some flexibility, there will not be much. Currently, contracts already state clubs carry on paying players for another 28 days after their deals expire or make up the difference if they sign a deal elsewhere for less.
But the notion that the free agents would just carry on until mid-August or even August 29 (the date of the Champions League final) seems incredibly far fetched.
It is why some clubs simply do not believe that the current season can be extended indefinitely and why they have been pushing June 30 as a cut-off date because of the chaos which could follow next.
Leading sports lawyer Simon Leaf, Head of Sport at Mishcon de Reya, said: “"Inevitably, individual clubs will be looking at the different scenarios that are on the table.
“They’ll need to make a difficult judgment call as to what would be in their best interests, given not only their current league position, but also where they stand under their individual and collective commercial contracts with players and external third parties.
“Under English law, it wouldn’t be possible to force players to continue to play beyond the 30th June date, which has received so much attention recently, nor would it be possible force them into taking wage cuts or deferrals – both of which could be frustrating for many clubs.
"For now, it looks as though clubs will continue to voluntarily ask players to take such steps. However, clubs, players and agents will be all too aware that there are strict FIFA regulations that apply internationally, which prevents clubs from putting pressure on players in this way.
“We could end up seeing clubs not only facing censure from the football authorities but also players legitimately being able to walk away from their contracts and joining other clubs early as a result of such pressure.”
Premier League free agents on June 30
(Image: Adam Fradgley/AMA)
Arsenal - None
Aston Villa - Borja Baston, Keinan Davis
Bournemouth - Ryan Fraser, Jordon Ibe, Charlie Daniels, Andrew Surman, Simon Francis, Artur Boruc, Brad Smith
Brighton - Beram Kayal, Ezequiel Schelotto
Burnley - Aaron Lennon, Jeff Hendrick, Joe Hart, Phil Bardsley, Adam Legzdins
Chelsea - Pedro, William, Olivier Giroud, Willy Caballero
Crystal Palace - Stephen Henderson
Everon - Oumar Niasse, Leighton Baines, Cuco Martina, Maarten Stekelenburg
Leicester - Nampalys Mendy, Christian Fuchs, Wes Morgan, Eldin Jakupovic
Liverpool - Adam Lallana, Nathaniel Clyne, Andy Lonergan
Manchester City - David Silva, Claudio Bravo
Manchester United - None
Newcastle - Javier Manquillo, Matty Longstaff, Andy Carroll, Jack Colback, Rob Elliot, Jamie Sterry
Norwich - None
Sheffield United - Ricky Holmes, Leon Clarke, John Lumdstram, Jack Rodwell, Phil Jagielka
Southampton - Shane Long
Tottenham - Jan Vertonghen, Michel Vorm
Watford - Adrian Mariappa, Ben Foster, Heurelho Gomes, Jose Holebas
West Ham - Carlos Sanchez, Pablo Zabaleta
Wolves - John Ruddy, Bright Enobakhare, Phil Ofosu-Ayeh