birminghammail--2020-05-09--Clubs push for decision which would promote West Brom - reports

A number of Championship clubs are reportedly keen for the 2019/20 season to be curtailed and decided by a points-per-game system - a move which would promote West Bromwich Albion .
The Baggies are currently second in the Championship and on course to seal automatic promotion to the Premier League .
Slaven Bilic ’ s men trail Leeds United by a single point with nine games to go .
Both Leeds and Albon have a healthy cushion to third-placed Fulham , meaning a points-per-game ruling would promote them to the Premier League .
The Times reports that a growing number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finishing the season will be too challenging - and want a points-per-game system to be used .
The proposal would see a final table produced by dividing a team 's current points tally by the games played , which would then give a points average .
That average would then be multiplied by 46 - the number of games in a season - to give a final points total .
Goal difference would then be used as a deciding factor should clubs have the same points total .
There has been a suggestion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' points-per-game system , which would be used to address the fact that some teams have more home games than away games remaining or vice versa .
Under a weighted system , points-per-game would be worked out separately for home and away games , with the resulting average for each multiplied by 23 - the number of home or away games across a season .
Both totals would then be added together .
Under a weighted system Leeds and West Brom would be promoted to the Premier League , with Fulham , Brentford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play-offs .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Alex Dicken, Josh Challies)

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A number of Championship clubs are reportedly keen for the 2019/20 season to be curtailed and decided by a points-per-game system - a move which would promote West Bromwich Albion.
The Baggies are currently second in the Championship and on course to seal automatic promotion to the Premier League. Slaven Bilic’s men trail Leeds United by a single point with nine games to go.
Both Leeds and Albon have a healthy cushion to third-placed Fulham, meaning a points-per-game ruling would promote them to the Premier League.
The Times reports that a growing number of Championship clubs believe the problems of finishing the season will be too challenging - and want a points-per-game system to be used.
The proposal would see a final table produced by dividing a team's current points tally by the games played, which would then give a points average.
That average would then be multiplied by 46 - the number of games in a season - to give a final points total.
Goal difference would then be used as a deciding factor should clubs have the same points total.
There has been a suggestion that there could also be a 'weighted' points-per-game system, which would be used to address the fact that some teams have more home games than away games remaining or vice versa.
Under a weighted system, points-per-game would be worked out separately for home and away games, with the resulting average for each multiplied by 23 - the number of home or away games across a season.
Both totals would then be added together.
Under a weighted system Leeds and West Brom would be promoted to the Premier League, with Fulham, Brentford, Nottingham Forest and Preston in the play-offs.


birminghammail--2020-05-09--Merson tells Grealish he will have to quit if Villa are relegated

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birminghammail--2020-05-09--MP Jess Phillips blasts 'aggressive criminals' for office vandalism

Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips has blasted `` aggressive criminals '' for spray painting the name of a campaign group on her office .
`` F4J '' - which stands for Fathers4Justice - is seen daubed on the shutters of her constituency office in Yardley Road , Acocks Green .
There is no suggestion that anyone connected with the group is involved .
The Labour MP said the vandalism does not further the person 's cause and instead `` makes you seem like an aggressive criminal . ''
The Shadow Minister for the Home Office also revealed how she has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hoped the `` aggressive division of the last few years might be sliding . ''
The MP 's office has previously been targeted in recent years , she has received disgusting rape threats and her brilliant eight-word response to vile troll 's death threat went viral .
She shared a picture of the graffiti tag with her 370,000 followers on Twitter today ( May 9 ) .
Taking to social media , Ms Phillips wrote : `` If you think vandalising my office furthers your cause it does n't it just makes you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She then followed up that tweet and wrote : `` To be honest I had thought that much of the looking over my shoulder was subsiding , that the aggressive division of the last few years might be sliding away however have had to call the police twice this week and once again am reminded that some will always try to silence . ''
BirminghamLive have approached the MP for further comment .
West Midlands Police and Fathers4Justice have also been contacted .
Another MP Rob Roberts tweeted : `` Vandalism isn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party should have to put up with , however righteous you feel your cause might be .
`` I find it really sad when people have to resort to things like this that happened to @ jessphillips - it will just put good people off politics at all . ''

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Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips has blasted "aggressive criminals" for spray painting the name of a campaign group on her office.
"F4J" - which stands for Fathers4Justice - is seen daubed on the shutters of her constituency office in Yardley Road, Acocks Green. There is no suggestion that anyone connected with the group is involved.
The Labour MP said the vandalism does not further the person's cause and instead "makes you seem like an aggressive criminal."
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
The Shadow Minister for the Home Office also revealed how she has called the police twice this week having hoped the "aggressive division of the last few years might be sliding."
The MP's office has previously been targeted in recent years, she has received disgusting rape threats and her brilliant eight-word response to vile troll's death threat went viral.
She shared a picture of the graffiti tag with her 370,000 followers on Twitter today (May 9).
Taking to social media, Ms Phillips wrote: "If you think vandalising my office furthers your cause it doesn't it just makes you seem like an aggressive criminal."
She then followed up that tweet and wrote: "To be honest I had thought that much of the looking over my shoulder was subsiding, that the aggressive division of the last few years might be sliding away however have had to call the police twice this week and once again am reminded that some will always try to silence."
BirminghamLive have approached the MP for further comment.
West Midlands Police and Fathers4Justice have also been contacted.
Another MP Rob Roberts tweeted: " Vandalism isn’t something that an MP from any party should have to put up with, however righteous you feel your cause might be.
"I find it really sad when people have to resort to things like this that happened to @jessphillips - it will just put good people off politics at all."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Boris Johnson reveals six-point coronavirus plan for UK going forward

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued a six-point plan to helping control coronavirus - hours after his new `` stay alert '' slogan was ridiculed .
The PM is set to address the nation tonight in a landmark speech from 7pm , giving insight into the ongoing lockdown restrictions .
It is thought the Prime Minister could begin to ease certain measures as soon as tomorrow - though the government has maintained any changes would be minimal .
Before Mr Johnson 's speech at 7pm , the government has rolled out a new slogan to much scorn .
Its new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ditches the old `` stay at home '' messaging , and has been condemned over being unclear .
Now , Mr Johnson has taken to social media to issue clarity over the government 's stance .
The Conservative Party leader , who himself has beaten Covid-19 , wrote on Twitter today : `` Everyone has a role to play in helping to control the virus by staying alert and following the rules .
This is how we can continue to save lives as we start to recover from coronavirus . ''
He then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stay at home as much as possible Work from home if you can Keep your distance if you go out ( 2 metres apart where possible ) And if you or anyone in your household has symptoms , you all need to self-isolate Mr Johnson 's speech will broadcast live on BBC One , ITV , Channel 4 and Channel 5 , as well as Sky News , this evening .

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Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued a six-point plan to helping control coronavirus - hours after his new "stay alert" slogan was ridiculed.
The PM is set to address the nation tonight in a landmark speech from 7pm, giving insight into the ongoing lockdown restrictions.
It is thought the Prime Minister could begin to ease certain measures as soon as tomorrow - though the government has maintained any changes would be minimal.
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Before Mr Johnson's speech at 7pm, the government has rolled out a new slogan to much scorn.
Its new manta - "stay alert" - ditches the old "stay at home" messaging, and has been condemned over being unclear.
Now, Mr Johnson has taken to social media to issue clarity over the government's stance.
The Conservative Party leader, who himself has beaten Covid-19, wrote on Twitter today: "Everyone has a role to play in helping to control the virus by staying alert and following the rules. This is how we can continue to save lives as we start to recover from coronavirus."
He then shared a graphic outlining six measures.
They are:
Stay at home as much as possible
Work from home if you can
Limit contact with other people
Keep your distance if you go out (2 metres apart where possible)
Wash your hands regularly
And if you or anyone in your household has symptoms, you all need to self-isolate
"Stay alert, control the virus, save lives," the caption ends.
Mr Johnson's speech will broadcast live on BBC One, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, as well as Sky News, this evening.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Gaggle of geese waddle through quiet city centre streets in lockdown

This gaggle of geese is not your everyday sight on Birmingham 's Broad Street .
Cute goslings were led by @ @ @ @ @ streets on lockdown after dine-in restaurants , bars and clubs were forced to close due @ @ @ @ @ were snapped by BBC Midlands Today broadcaster David Gregory-Kumar , who told how they were @ @ @ @ @ like they owned them . ''
But the Canada geese family had just taken an @ @ @ @ @ the nearby canal .
The news correspondent , who shared the adorable image with his @ @ @ @ @ seeing `` weird '' things in a pandemic was `` increasingly relative . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ past two when I was walking down Broad Street with my husband and my daughter @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We were off to pick up our shop from The Highfield .
`` @ @ @ @ @ of Canada geese walking down the empty streets like they owned them .
`` Not @ @ @ @ @ but they took a left and headed for the canal . ''

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This gaggle of geese is not your everyday sight on Birmingham's Broad Street.
Cute goslings were led by their parents through the quiet streets on lockdown after dine-in restaurants, bars and clubs were forced to close due to the pandemic.
They were snapped by BBC Midlands Today broadcaster David Gregory-Kumar, who told how they were "walking down empty streets like they owned them."
But the Canada geese family had just taken an urban detour until they reached the nearby canal.
The news correspondent, who shared the adorable image with his Twitter followers, also admitted seeing "weird" things in a pandemic was "increasingly relative."
"It was Friday at half past two when I was walking down Broad Street with my husband and my daughter," David told BirminghamLive.
"We were off to pick up our shop from The Highfield.
"And we saw a family of Canada geese walking down the empty streets like they owned them.
"Not sure where they came from but they took a left and headed for the canal."
He added: "It’s a pandemic. Weird is increasingly relative."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--When Wolves, Man Utd and Rangers will resume Europa challenge

Wolves will do battle against Olympiakos in their second-leg Europa League tie at Molinuex in August , according to reports .
Nuno Espirito Santo 's side drew 1-1 with the Greek giants in Athens back in March and , with lockdown restrictions set to be eased , last-16 action will resume this summer .
Wolves-Olympiakos was one of just five of eight round-of-16 first leg ties to take place before UEFA postponed all matches moving forward .
Those matches that did go ahead included Manchester United ’ s 5-0 win away to LASK behind closed doors on Thursday , March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , meanwhile , in Greece , grabbed a valuable away goal thanks to substitute Pedro Neto who cancelled out Youssef El Arabi 's strike .
Elsewhere , Steven Gerrard ’ s Rangers were beaten 3-1 at Ibrox by Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen .
Inter Milan vs Getafe , Sevilla vs Roma and Istanbul Basaksehir vs Copenhagen did not fulfil their first leg fixtures .
As a result , those matches need to take precedent at the start of August before United , Wolves and Rangers get back on the pitch in Europe .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get their seasons completed on the pitch despite the continued spread of Covid-19 .
The Premier League is in ongoing talks over a potential June return with Project Restart , and the hope is to get matches played before August .
According to Spanish newspaper Marca , a draft fixture calendar for the Europa League ’ s return has been mapped out .
If Wolves prevail against Oympiakos , the quarter-finals will take place just four days later on August 10 , with the second-leg set for August 13 .
The semi-final @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be scheduled for Monday , August 17 and Thursday , August 20 respectively .
Meanwhile , the final is set to go ahead in Gdansk on Thursday , August 27 .
• September 6 is the provisional start for the 2020/21 season , with EFL clubs due back in action first .

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Wolves will do battle against Olympiakos in their second-leg Europa League tie at Molinuex in August, according to reports.
Nuno Espirito Santo's side drew 1-1 with the Greek giants in Athens back in March and, with lockdown restrictions set to be eased, last-16 action will resume this summer.
Wolves-Olympiakos was one of just five of eight round-of-16 first leg ties to take place before UEFA postponed all matches moving forward.
Those matches that did go ahead included Manchester United’s 5-0 win away to LASK behind closed doors on Thursday, March 12 at the Linzer Station.
Wolves, meanwhile, in Greece, grabbed a valuable away goal thanks to substitute Pedro Neto who cancelled out Youssef El Arabi's strike.
Elsewhere, Steven Gerrard’s Rangers were beaten 3-1 at Ibrox by Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.
Inter Milan vs Getafe, Sevilla vs Roma and Istanbul Basaksehir vs Copenhagen did not fulfil their first leg fixtures.
As a result, those matches need to take precedent at the start of August before United, Wolves and Rangers get back on the pitch in Europe.
Domestic leagues across the continent are pushing to get their seasons completed on the pitch despite the continued spread of Covid-19.
The Premier League is in ongoing talks over a potential June return with Project Restart, and the hope is to get matches played before August.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca , a draft fixture calendar for the Europa League’s return has been mapped out.
If Wolves prevail against Oympiakos, the quarter-finals will take place just four days later on August 10, with the second-leg set for August 13.
The semi-final first and second legs are said to be scheduled for Monday, August 17 and Thursday, August 20 respectively.
Meanwhile, the final is set to go ahead in Gdansk on Thursday, August 27.
Europa League draft calendar
August 2-3: Sevilla-Roma; Inter-Getafe (Round of 16 first legs)
August 6: Round of 16 second legs
August 10: Quarter-finals first leg
August 13: Quarter-finals second leg
August 17: Semi-finals first leg
August 20: Semi-finals second leg
August 27: Final (Gdansk)


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Professor condemns government over 'number theatre' coronavirus figures

The Government 's method of giving out numbers on Covid-19 deaths and testing is `` not the trustworthy communication of statistics '' , according to an expert .
Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter , chairman of the Winton Centre for Risk and Evidence Communication at the University of Cambridge , criticised the Government 's daily briefings , saying that , while members of the public are hungry for `` genuine information '' , they are being fed `` number theatre '' .
In an interview with the BBC 's Andrew Marr Show , Sir David said he wished data was being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strengths and limitations '' and could `` treat the audience with respect '' .
The eminent statistician added that it is `` extraordinary '' that it is not known how many people have had Covid-19 .
Asked about the Government 's communication to the public about coronavirus through its daily televised briefings , Sir David said he watched Saturday 's , adding `` frankly , I found it completely embarrassing '' .
`` We get told lots of big numbers , precise numbers of tests being done - 96,878 .
Well , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; it includes tests that were posted out .
`` We 're told 31,587 people have died ; no , they have n't , it 's far more than that .
`` I think this is actually not the trustworthy communication of statistics .
`` It 's such a missed opportunity .
The public out there who are broadly very supportive of the measures , they 're hungry for details , for facts , for genuine information , and yet they get fed this what I call 'number theatre ' , which seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Number 10 communications team rather than genuinely trying to inform people about what 's going on .
`` I just wish the data was being brought together and presented by people who really knew its strengths and limitations and could treat the audience with some respect . ''
Sir David also raised concerns about a lack of information on how many people have had the virus .
He told the programme that some say the infection fatality rate - the proportion of people infected with the virus who go on to die @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of deaths at around 35,000 deaths , if this is multiplied up , it would mean that around 3.5 million people have been infected .
But others put the infection fatality rate at a different percentage , with some saying the infection fatality rate is half of one percent , which would mean that seven million have been infected , while others claim half the country has been infected , he said .
Asked by Marr how scared we should be of Covid-19 , Sir David said it is `` very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the risks are '' .
`` I 'm not saying how anybody should feel , or what they should be worried about , but my aim , as a statistician , was that people 's anxiety should be at least roughly proportional to the actual risks that they face , '' he said .
As an example , Sir David said there are 10 million children under the age of 15 in England and Wales , and , up to April 24 , there had been two deaths in this age group .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ could ever think of , so I do think that when people start talking about protecting our children , this is a bit of a delusion , '' he said .
`` Obviously , I 'm talking about risks to the individual themselves , we have to think about the potential for spreading the virus , and that 's absolutely vital .
`` But when we talk about personal risk , for young people , it 's staggeringly low . ''
Among the 17 million under-25s , there have been 26 deaths recorded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` That 's about the risk we face over a couple of days of general accidents and sudden death . ''
In comparison , more than 1 % of those aged over 90 have so far died from Covid-19 , in a four-week period , he said .
`` That is 10,000 times the risk of the younger people . ''

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The Government's method of giving out numbers on Covid-19 deaths and testing is "not the trustworthy communication of statistics", according to an expert.
Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter, chairman of the Winton Centre for Risk and Evidence Communication at the University of Cambridge, criticised the Government's daily briefings, saying that, while members of the public are hungry for "genuine information", they are being fed "number theatre".
In an interview with the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, Sir David said he wished data was being presented by people who know its "strengths and limitations" and could "treat the audience with respect".
The eminent statistician added that it is "extraordinary" that it is not known how many people have had Covid-19.
Asked about the Government's communication to the public about coronavirus through its daily televised briefings, Sir David said he watched Saturday's, adding "frankly, I found it completely embarrassing".
"We get told lots of big numbers, precise numbers of tests being done - 96,878. Well, that's not how many were done yesterday; it includes tests that were posted out.
"We're told 31,587 people have died; no, they haven't, it's far more than that.
"I think this is actually not the trustworthy communication of statistics.
"It's such a missed opportunity. The public out there who are broadly very supportive of the measures, they're hungry for details, for facts, for genuine information, and yet they get fed this what I call 'number theatre', which seems to be co-ordinated really much more by a Number 10 communications team rather than genuinely trying to inform people about what's going on.
"I just wish the data was being brought together and presented by people who really knew its strengths and limitations and could treat the audience with some respect."
Sir David also raised concerns about a lack of information on how many people have had the virus.
He told the programme that some say the infection fatality rate - the proportion of people infected with the virus who go on to die - is around 1%.
Putting the number of deaths at around 35,000 deaths, if this is multiplied up, it would mean that around 3.5 million people have been infected.
But others put the infection fatality rate at a different percentage, with some saying the infection fatality rate is half of one percent, which would mean that seven million have been infected, while others claim half the country has been infected, he said.
Asked by Marr how scared we should be of Covid-19, Sir David said it is "very important that we are aware of what the risks are".
"I'm not saying how anybody should feel, or what they should be worried about, but my aim, as a statistician, was that people's anxiety should be at least roughly proportional to the actual risks that they face," he said.
As an example, Sir David said there are 10 million children under the age of 15 in England and Wales, and, up to April 24, there had been two deaths in this age group.
"This is the tiniest risk you could ever think of, so I do think that when people start talking about protecting our children, this is a bit of a delusion," he said.
"Obviously, I'm talking about risks to the individual themselves, we have to think about the potential for spreading the virus, and that's absolutely vital.
"But when we talk about personal risk, for young people, it's staggeringly low."
Among the 17 million under-25s, there have been 26 deaths recorded, Sir David said, adding: "That's about the risk we face over a couple of days of general accidents and sudden death."
In comparison, more than 1% of those aged over 90 have so far died from Covid-19, in a four-week period, he said.
"That is 10,000 times the risk of the younger people."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Huge queue as DIY fans flock to B&Q

Huge queue as DIY fans flock to B&Q

The sun is no longer shining but the blustery weather has n't stopped shoppers flocking to B & Q in Halesowen .
A lengthy queue snaked around the front of the Mucklow Hill store shortly after it opened its doors this morning ( Sunday , May 10 ) .
Dozens of customers were patiently waiting to stock up on some DIY essentials to spruce up their homes and gardens - as can be seen in the video above .
They all seemed to be observing the social distancing guidelines by keeping at least two metres apart from fellow shoppers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra precaution .
All B & Q stores were temporarily closed at the end of March due to the coronavirus crisis - which has caused a nationwide lockdown - but the DIY giant has gradually reopened all 297 branches , with strict social distancing and queuing measures in place to stem the flow of shoppers .
The chain is also limiting the number of customers in its stores at any one time and has installed perspex screens at checkouts .
B & Q has been branded an 'essential ' retailer since the start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from decking and paint to tools and taps .
However additional services , such as kitchen and bathroom design , paint mixing , timber cutting and key cutting are not available for the time being and only card and contact-less payments are accepted .

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The sun is no longer shining but the blustery weather hasn't stopped shoppers flocking to B&Q in Halesowen.
A lengthy queue snaked around the front of the Mucklow Hill store shortly after it opened its doors this morning (Sunday, May 10).
Dozens of customers were patiently waiting to stock up on some DIY essentials to spruce up their homes and gardens - as can be seen in the video above .
(Image: BirminghamLive)
They all seemed to be observing the social distancing guidelines by keeping at least two metres apart from fellow shoppers. Some also wore face masks as an extra precaution.
All B&Q stores were temporarily closed at the end of March due to the coronavirus crisis - which has caused a nationwide lockdown - but the DIY giant has gradually reopened all 297 branches, with strict social distancing and queuing measures in place to stem the flow of shoppers.
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The chain is also limiting the number of customers in its stores at any one time and has installed perspex screens at checkouts.
B&Q has been branded an 'essential' retailer since the start of the pandemic, stocking everything from from decking and paint to tools and taps.
However additional services, such as kitchen and bathroom design, paint mixing, timber cutting and key cutting are not available for the time being and only card and contact-less payments are accepted.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Lescott's ultimate XI as Wolves, Man City & Everton stars combine

Joelon Lescott enjoyed a long and fascinating playing career , representing some of the biggest clubs in England .
After breaking through at Wolverhampton Wanderers , he became one of the finest defenders to play in the old gold in a number of years .
He spent six impressive years with Wolves , before being sold to Everton for a bargain fee under David Moyes .
Sign up to your club 's daily newsletter here Lescott 's reputation continued to soar at Goodison Park , breaking into the England team and then moving to Manchester City in 2009 .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , before returning to the Midlands with spells at West Brom and Aston Villa .
His career wound down with short stays at AEK Athens and Sunderland , leaving the Mackems in 2017 .
He ’ s played with some incredible players - but who has gone into battle with Lescott most frequently during his long career ?
We ’ ve totted up his ‘ Ultimate XI ’ based on the players who have appeared alongside Lescott the most .
Howard made his debut for Everton alongside Lescott .
The two would go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Moyes ’ squad and was part of the team that got the FA Cup final in 2009 .
The American edged out Joe Hart by just two appearances Neville was captain for much of Lescott ’ s stay at Goodison Park , lining up on the opposite flank to him .
The end of his England career coincided with the start of Lescott ’ s in 2007 .
With Lescott utilised as a left-back for much of his time with the Toffees .
Yobo played alongside him as the centre-back pairing with Phil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make the cut , Kompany was Lescott ’ s long-time defensive partner at the Etihad .
After Roberto Mancini replaced Mark Hughes , the Italian paired the two in the heart of his defence .
They would win two Premier League titles , an FA Cup and a League Cup during their time playing together .
No player lined up alongside Lescott more than the Wolves academy graduate .
After both coming through the ranks , Naylor and Lescott were part of the back four that ended the club ’ s long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League , winning the play-offs in 2003 .
Although he has become a versatile piece of Jurgen Klopp ’ s Liverpool team , Milner spent much of his time at City on the right wing .
He signed a year after Lescott and stayed with the club for one season longer , eventually leaving in 2015 .
The Scottish international played for 12 clubs during his 15 year playing career , but it was at Wolves where he played the most games .
From 2001-2006 Cameron played in front of Lescott , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign .
Barry signed for City two months before Lescott , right at the start of the club ’ s era of dominance in the Premier League .
Their international careers also crossed over , with Barry ultimately making over 50 appearances for England .
During their careers , both players played for Villa , Everton , Man City and West Brom – but it was only at the Etihad where they lined up together .
The third Wolves player in this team , Kennedy was a mainstay under both Dave Jones and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scoring on Lescott ’ s best day in a Wolves shirt , the 3-0 play-off final win vs Sheffield United .
Anichebe broke into the Everton side shortly after Lescott moved and would stay in the team for much of his time on Merseyside .
The pair would then be reunited when Lescott joined the striker at West Brom in 2014 .
Only Naylor played more times with Lescott than Miller .
He signed for Wolves shortly after Lescott broke into the first team and enjoyed a prolific spell at Molineux .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ window as Lescott , signing for Celtic

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Joelon Lescott enjoyed a long and fascinating playing career, representing some of the biggest clubs in England.
After breaking through at Wolverhampton Wanderers, he became one of the finest defenders to play in the old gold in a number of years.
He spent six impressive years with Wolves, before being sold to Everton for a bargain fee under David Moyes.
Sign up to your club's daily newsletter here
Lescott's reputation continued to soar at Goodison Park, breaking into the England team and then moving to Manchester City in 2009. He won two Premier League titles with City, before returning to the Midlands with spells at West Brom and Aston Villa.
His career wound down with short stays at AEK Athens and Sunderland, leaving the Mackems in 2017.
He’s played with some incredible players - but who has gone into battle with Lescott most frequently during his long career?
We’ve totted up his ‘Ultimate XI’ based on the players who have appeared alongside Lescott the most.
The rules The XI is made up of players who made the most appearances alongside our featured player or for our featured manager. We're not looking for an overall 'Best' XI, and the player/manager himself isn't in it.
For a player, the appearance numbers are based on the time they spent on the pitch at the same time as our main man, factoring in both club and international level.
This isn't necessarily the eleven players who've spent the most time on the pitch with/for him, just the eleven that would fit into a working team.
We're not going to come up with a Garth Crooksesque formation, but we might name subs if we feel like it.
All minutes played and appearances stats are courtesy of transfermarkt.co.uk.
Don't get angry in the comments section.
Goalkeeper – Tim Howard
Appearances with Lescott – 132
Howard made his debut for Everton alongside Lescott. The two would go onto be an integral part of David Moyes’ squad and was part of the team that got the FA Cup final in 2009. The American edged out Joe Hart by just two appearances
Right back – Phil Neville
Appearances with Lescott – 135
Neville was captain for much of Lescott’s stay at Goodison Park, lining up on the opposite flank to him. The end of his England career coincided with the start of Lescott’s in 2007.
Centre back – Joseph Yobo
Appearances with Lescott – 111
With Lescott utilised as a left-back for much of his time with the Toffees. Yobo played alongside him as the centre-back pairing with Phil Jagielka.
Centre back – Vincent Kompany
Appearances with Lescott – 108
The first Man City player to make the cut, Kompany was Lescott’s long-time defensive partner at the Etihad. After Roberto Mancini replaced Mark Hughes, the Italian paired the two in the heart of his defence. They would win two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup during their time playing together.
Left back – Lee Naylor
Appearances with Lescott – 141
No player lined up alongside Lescott more than the Wolves academy graduate. After both coming through the ranks, Naylor and Lescott were part of the back four that ended the club’s long wait for a return to the Premier League, winning the play-offs in 2003.
Right midfield – James Milner
Appearances with Lescott – 113
Although he has become a versatile piece of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool team, Milner spent much of his time at City on the right wing. He signed a year after Lescott and stayed with the club for one season longer, eventually leaving in 2015.
Centre midfield – Colin Cameron
Appearances with Lescott – 132
The Scottish international played for 12 clubs during his 15 year playing career, but it was at Wolves where he played the most games. From 2001-2006 Cameron played in front of Lescott, as Wolves embarked on their first Premier League campaign.
Centre midfield – Gareth Barry
Appearances with Lescott – 129
Barry signed for City two months before Lescott, right at the start of the club’s era of dominance in the Premier League. Their international careers also crossed over, with Barry ultimately making over 50 appearances for England.
During their careers, both players played for Villa, Everton, Man City and West Brom – but it was only at the Etihad where they lined up together.
Left midfield – Mark Kennedy
Appearances with Lescott – 132
The third Wolves player in this team, Kennedy was a mainstay under both Dave Jones and Glenn Hoddle at Molineux. He opened the scoring on Lescott’s best day in a Wolves shirt, the 3-0 play-off final win vs Sheffield United.
Striker – Victor Anichebe
Appearances with Lescott - 107
Anichebe broke into the Everton side shortly after Lescott moved and would stay in the team for much of his time on Merseyside. The pair would then be reunited when Lescott joined the striker at West Brom in 2014.
Striker – Kenny Miller
Appearances with Lescott – 138
Only Naylor played more times with Lescott than Miller. He signed for Wolves shortly after Lescott broke into the first team and enjoyed a prolific spell at Molineux. He departed the club in the same window as Lescott, signing for Celtic


birminghammail--2020-05-10--'Project Restart' thrown into doubt as Brighton confirm positive test

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has confirmed a third player in their squad has tested positive for COVID-19 .
The news comes just 24 hours ahead of crunch Premier League talks – with the aim of resuming fixtures in the coming weeks and months .
‘ Project Restart ’ , the name given to the proposals to restart the campaign , has come up against strong opposition in the last week .
Sign up to your club 's daily newsletter here It is understood that the 20 top-flight clubs have been told that should the season resume , it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Aston Villa CEO Christian Purslow has confirmed he will likely vote against the proposal , with Dean Smith ’ s side losing the home advantage they would have for six of their final 10 fixtures .
The Seagulls also oppose the plans and any discussions over resuming training and matches have now been dealt a major blow , with Barber confirming to Sky Sports a third positive coronavirus test .
`` It is a concern , '' he said .
`` Unfortunately we 've had a third player test positive yesterday ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite all of the measures that we 've been taking over the past few weeks , where the players have n't been involved in any significant training at all , we 've still suffered another player testing positive for the virus .
`` So there are concerns and I think it 's normal for all clubs to have those concerns .
We want to make sure we do everything that we can to ensure those protocols are in place and are safe and secure and mitigate the risk as far as we can @ @

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Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has confirmed a third player in their squad has tested positive for COVID-19.
The news comes just 24 hours ahead of crunch Premier League talks – with the aim of resuming fixtures in the coming weeks and months.
‘Project Restart’, the name given to the proposals to restart the campaign, has come up against strong opposition in the last week.
Sign up to your club's daily newsletter here
It is understood that the 20 top-flight clubs have been told that should the season resume, it will likely be behind-closed-doors and at neutral venues.
Aston Villa CEO Christian Purslow has confirmed he will likely vote against the proposal, with Dean Smith’s side losing the home advantage they would have for six of their final 10 fixtures.
The Seagulls also oppose the plans and any discussions over resuming training and matches have now been dealt a major blow, with Barber confirming to Sky Sports a third positive coronavirus test.
"It is a concern," he said. "Unfortunately we've had a third player test positive yesterday (Saturday, May 9), so despite all of the measures that we've been taking over the past few weeks, where the players haven't been involved in any significant training at all, we've still suffered another player testing positive for the virus.
"So there are concerns and I think it's normal for all clubs to have those concerns. We want to make sure we do everything that we can to ensure those protocols are in place and are safe and secure and mitigate the risk as far as we can."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Government reveals what new 'stay alert' coronavirus slogan actually means

The government has attempted to clear up what its new `` stay alert '' coronavirus slogan actually means after it was ridiculed by Brits .
The new messaging was unveiled late on Saturday evening , and led to scorn on social media after leaving people utterly baffled .
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick sought to explain what the Government 's new `` stay alert '' message means .
`` Stay alert will mean stay alert by staying home as much as possible , '' he told The Andrew Marr Show on the BBC .
`` But stay alert when you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ washing your hands , respecting others in the workplace and the other settings that you will go to . ''
With it looking likely the `` stay home '' slogan will remain in Scotland and Wales , Mr Jenrick insisted it would remain an `` important part of the message '' in England .
He told Marr : `` We would like the whole of the United Kingdom to move as one , that 's our strong preference .
`` Staying at home will still be an important part of the message .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as much as possible . ''
Meanwhile , Labour 's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said all healthcare workers and care home residents should be tested for Covid-19 whether they have symptoms or not .
Speaking to the BBC 's Andrew Marr Show , Mr Ashworth said : `` I think you can target your testing and tracing at certain sections of your community .
`` Deprived areas , black and ethnic minority areas , but also certain cohorts of your workforce .
`` We should be testing every healthcare worker , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We should be testing everybody in a care home . ''

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The government has attempted to clear up what its new "stay alert" coronavirus slogan actually means after it was ridiculed by Brits.
The new messaging was unveiled late on Saturday evening, and led to scorn on social media after leaving people utterly baffled.
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick sought to explain what the Government's new "stay alert" message means.
"Stay alert will mean stay alert by staying home as much as possible," he told The Andrew Marr Show on the BBC.
"But stay alert when you do go out by maintaining social distancing, washing your hands, respecting others in the workplace and the other settings that you will go to."
With it looking likely the "stay home" slogan will remain in Scotland and Wales, Mr Jenrick insisted it would remain an "important part of the message" in England.
He told Marr: "We would like the whole of the United Kingdom to move as one, that's our strong preference.
"Staying at home will still be an important part of the message. We want people to stay at home as much as possible."
Meanwhile, Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said all healthcare workers and care home residents should be tested for Covid-19 whether they have symptoms or not.
Speaking to the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, Mr Ashworth said: "I think you can target your testing and tracing at certain sections of your community.
"Deprived areas, black and ethnic minority areas, but also certain cohorts of your workforce.
"We should be testing every healthcare worker, for example, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic.
"We should be testing everybody in a care home."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Pepe's customer smashes restaurant table after disagreement with staff

Police are appealing for information after a table was smashed during a row at a city takeaway .
A table @ @ @ @ @ inside Pepe 's Takeaway in Shirley , Solihull back in December last year .
The @ @ @ @ @ a customer had a disagreement with staff members at the Stratford Road branch .
Now @ @ @ @ @ , West Midlands Police has issued a CCTV image of a man they wish to @ @ @ @ @ shared on May 6 , read : `` APPEAL| Recognise this man ?
`` We @ @ @ @ @ damage was caused inside a takeaway shop in Shirley # Solihull in December 2019 .
@ @ @ @ @ up and smashed at Pepe ’ s Takeaway shop after a customer had a disagreement @ @ @ @ @ with information is asked to contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk , or via @ @ @ @ @ number 20SH/308518Y/19 .

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Police are appealing for information after a table was smashed during a row at a city takeaway.
A table was picked up and smashed inside Pepe's Takeaway in Shirley, Solihull back in December last year.
The criminal damage was caused after a customer had a disagreement with staff members at the Stratford Road branch.
Now five months after the incident, West Midlands Police has issued a CCTV image of a man they wish to trace.
The appeal, shared on May 6, read: "APPEAL| Recognise this man?
"We want to trace him after damage was caused inside a takeaway shop in Shirley #Solihull in December 2019.
"A table was picked up and smashed at Pepe’s Takeaway shop after a customer had a disagreement with staff."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk, or via 101. Quote crime reference number 20SH/308518Y/19.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--'Go to work' is the new lockdown message

The Government 's new `` stay safe '' slogan is designed to encourage people to go back to work , Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick has revealed .
Mr Jenrick was speaking in a television interview this morning , in advance of Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's lockdown announcement at 7pm .
He was asked about the Government 's new lockdown slogan , which is `` stay alert , control the virus and save lives ” .
Previously , the Government message was `` stay home '' - but that slogan has been scrapped .
Speaking on Sophy Ridge on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jenrick said : `` We want now to have a message which encourages people to go to work . ''
Mr Jenrick said : `` We need to have a broader message because we want to slowly and cautiously restart the economy and the country .
He added : `` It will be a cautious approach but we know the public are anxious , are concerned but equally want to begin to get back to work , get back to their daily lives . ''
The message since the lockdown began has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can - but otherwise they should travel to their workplace and work as normal , if their usual place of work is open .
However , the `` stay home '' message has been so successful that it appears some people have stayed at home even when they did n't have to .
Some people may also have believed that only essential workers or key workers should travel to work , although the rules were actually the same for everyone , whatever job they do .
It also appears that some employers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not required to do so .
The Government published a list of businesses that were told to close , including pubs , restaurants and most shops that do n't sell food , but others were allowed to continue operating .
In his TV interview , Mr Jenrick also confirmed that changes to the lockdown will be introduced across the whole of England at once - but local restrictions could be re-introduced in areas where there is an increase in covid-19 coronavirus cases .
He said : `` That will be done on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also be able to inform what we do at a local level and if we see that there are outbreaks in particular localities , neighbourhoods , schools , towns , then we may be able to take particular measures in those places as we build up a more sophisticated and longer term response to controlling the virus . ''
Labour shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said that the new `` stay safe '' slogan did n't make it clear what people were supposed to do .
He said : `` People will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questioning what does it mean to stay alert , what are the government saying with that ?
...
I think the stay at home message is easily understood and that is the strength and beauty of that message . ''

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The Government's new "stay safe" slogan is designed to encourage people to go back to work, Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick has revealed.
Mr Jenrick was speaking in a television interview this morning, in advance of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's lockdown announcement at 7pm.
He was asked about the Government's new lockdown slogan, which is "stay alert, control the virus and save lives”. Previously, the Government message was "stay home" - but that slogan has been scrapped.
Speaking on Sophy Ridge on Sunday, on Sky News, Mr Jenrick said: "We want now to have a message which encourages people to go to work."
Mr Jenrick said: "We need to have a broader message because we want to slowly and cautiously restart the economy and the country.
He added: "It will be a cautious approach but we know the public are anxious, are concerned but equally want to begin to get back to work, get back to their daily lives."
The message since the lockdown began has been that people should work from home if they can - but otherwise they should travel to their workplace and work as normal, if their usual place of work is open.
However, the "stay home" message has been so successful that it appears some people have stayed at home even when they didn't have to. Some people may also have believed that only essential workers or key workers should travel to work, although the rules were actually the same for everyone, whatever job they do.
It also appears that some employers closed offices or factories when they were not required to do so. The Government published a list of businesses that were told to close, including pubs, restaurants and most shops that don't sell food, but others were allowed to continue operating.
In his TV interview, Mr Jenrick also confirmed that changes to the lockdown will be introduced across the whole of England at once - but local restrictions could be re-introduced in areas where there is an increase in covid-19 coronavirus cases.
He said: "That will be done on a national scale but the evidence behind that will also be able to inform what we do at a local level and if we see that there are outbreaks in particular localities, neighbourhoods, schools, towns, then we may be able to take particular measures in those places as we build up a more sophisticated and longer term response to controlling the virus."
Labour shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said that the new "stay safe" slogan didn't make it clear what people were supposed to do.
He said: "People will be looking at it slightly puzzled, questioning what does it mean to stay alert, what are the government saying with that?... I think the stay at home message is easily understood and that is the strength and beauty of that message."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Police reveal fears that missing Harborne man could be injured

Police are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of a missing man who could be injured .
Macauley Ure , 25 , was in a `` distressed manner '' when he left his house in Harborne at 6am today ( May 10 ) , West Midlands Police said .
He walks with a limp , but there are fears he could be injured , officers said .
Macauley is described as 6ft 3in tall , of slim build and speaks with an American accent .
He was wearing a sheepskin jacket , blue jeans and blue trainers with gold stripes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham Police posted : `` Have you seen Macauley Ure anywhere ?
The 25-year-old from # Harborne , # Birmingham left his house in the early hours of this morning ( Sunday 10 May ) in a distressed manner just before 6am and officers are concerned for his welfare .
`` Macauley is described as white , 6ft 3ins tall , is of a slim build and speaks with an American accent .
He was wearing a sheepskin jacket , blue jeans and blue trainers with gold stripes earlier and walking with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be injured .
`` If you see him , call the Chelmsley Wood Locate team on 101 or contact officers via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight . ''
The post was shared over a hundred times within minutes of it going online .

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Police are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of a missing man who could be injured.
Macauley Ure, 25, was in a "distressed manner" when he left his house in Harborne at 6am today (May 10), West Midlands Police said.
He walks with a limp, but there are fears he could be injured, officers said.
Macauley is described as 6ft 3in tall, of slim build and speaks with an American accent.
He was wearing a sheepskin jacket, blue jeans and blue trainers with gold stripes.
In a plea on Facebook, Birmingham Police posted: "Have you seen Macauley Ure anywhere?The 25-year-old from #Harborne, #Birmingham left his house in the early hours of this morning (Sunday 10 May) in a distressed manner just before 6am and officers are concerned for his welfare.
"Macauley is described as white, 6ft 3ins tall, is of a slim build and speaks with an American accent. He was wearing a sheepskin jacket, blue jeans and blue trainers with gold stripes earlier and walking with a limp – it’s thought he could be injured.
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"If you see him, call the Chelmsley Wood Locate team on 101 or contact officers via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight."
The post was shared over a hundred times within minutes of it going online.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Suspected drink driver arrested after crash

A suspected drink driver has been arrested after a crash in Dudley .
Emergency services were called to Cinder Road , Lower Gornal , at around 9pm on Saturday night ( May 9 ) following the collision .
One driver was left trapped and injured in his car , while the other had fled the scene .
Police say a 40-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of drink driving and remains in custody this morning ( Sunday , May 10 ) .
A dramatic photograph from the scene - which can be viewed above - was shared on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crumpled wreckages of the vehicles surrounded by debris .
An accompanying post said : `` Road traffic collision on Cinder Road , Lower Gornal , tonight .
One man has absconded and one man assisting Dudley Police with enquires having received check over by West Midlands Ambulance Service .
`` Please during lockdown , slow down on our roads and don ’ t drink and drive . ''
A West Midlands Police spokesman told Black Country Live : `` We received a report of a collision between two cars on Cinder Road in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , where one driver was trapped in his car and the other had left the scene .
`` One man was treated for injuries that are not believed to be serious .
`` A 40-year-old man was arrested a short time later on suspicion of drink driving and remains in custody this morning . ''

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A suspected drink driver has been arrested after a crash in Dudley.
Emergency services were called to Cinder Road, Lower Gornal, at around 9pm on Saturday night (May 9) following the collision.
One driver was left trapped and injured in his car, while the other had fled the scene.
Police say a 40-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of drink driving and remains in custody this morning (Sunday, May 10).
A dramatic photograph from the scene - which can be viewed above - was shared on Twitter by Dudley Fire Station, showing the crumpled wreckages of the vehicles surrounded by debris.
An accompanying post said: "Road traffic collision on Cinder Road, Lower Gornal, tonight. One man has absconded and one man assisting Dudley Police with enquires having received check over by West Midlands Ambulance Service.
"Please during lockdown, slow down on our roads and don’t drink and drive."
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A West Midlands Police spokesman told Black Country Live: "We received a report of a collision between two cars on Cinder Road in Lower Gornal just before 9pm last night, where one driver was trapped in his car and the other had left the scene.
"One man was treated for injuries that are not believed to be serious.
"A 40-year-old man was arrested a short time later on suspicion of drink driving and remains in custody this morning."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Furlough announcement due 'on Tuesday' as workers could return part-time

Rishi Sunak is set to deliver an update on the furlough scheme as soon as Tuesday as millions of Brits are left anxious over what their future holds .
The Chancellor and business secretary Alok Sharma have discussed the future of the scheme - which Mr Sunak branded `` unsustainable '' last week .
And now they will update the nation , with reports on Sunday suggesting some furloughed workers may return part-time .
The furlough scheme , announced in late-March , has seen a staggering six million British workers sign up at a cost of £8bn .
But Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be `` wound down '' amid fears of its economic impact .
A final decision on how and when the Government 's furlough scheme will be phased out is anticipated this weekend , it has been reported .
Earlier this week , Chancellor Rishi Sunak said he was preparing to `` wean '' workers and business off the programme amid concerns that the nation was becoming `` addicted '' to it .
Craig Beaumont , director of external affairs at the Federation of Small Businesses , said : “ We really hope to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because smaller businesses in particular benefit from being able to quote for new work , keep in touch with employees and pay their invoices.
” The Financial Times says Mr Sharma had `` positive signals around flexibility of the scheme '' in the discussions .
The employees asked to return part-time will only work in sectors deemed vital to protect kept on the furlough scheme , The Sun says .
Businesses in these industries may be able to apply for an extension .

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Rishi Sunak is set to deliver an update on the furlough scheme as soon as Tuesday as millions of Brits are left anxious over what their future holds.
The Chancellor and business secretary Alok Sharma have discussed the future of the scheme - which Mr Sunak branded "unsustainable" last week.
And now they will update the nation, with reports on Sunday suggesting some furloughed workers may return part-time.
The furlough scheme, announced in late-March, has seen a staggering six million British workers sign up at a cost of £8bn.
But Mr Sunak has called for the scheme to be "wound down" amid fears of its economic impact.
(Image: PA)
A final decision on how and when the Government's furlough scheme will be phased out is anticipated this weekend, it has been reported.
Earlier this week, Chancellor Rishi Sunak said he was preparing to "wean" workers and business off the programme amid concerns that the nation was becoming "addicted" to it.
Craig Beaumont, director of external affairs at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “We really hope to see progress made on a part-time furlough because smaller businesses in particular benefit from being able to quote for new work, keep in touch with employees and pay their invoices.”
The Financial Times says Mr Sharma had "positive signals around flexibility of the scheme" in the discussions.
The employees asked to return part-time will only work in sectors deemed vital to protect kept on the furlough scheme, The Sun says.
Businesses in these industries may be able to apply for an extension.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Arrest after machete and 200 cannabis plants found in home

A man has been arrested after a huge cannabis factory was uncovered in Walsall .
Cops found 200 plants packed into five rooms of the undisclosed property during a `` successful '' shift last night ( Saturday , May 9 ) .
A large machete was also discovered in the living room .
Police say the man ended up in custody following a short foot chase .
The team from St Matthew 's Police took to Twitter to share photographs from the scene - as can be seen above .
They show rows of plants growing under artificial lights as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ An accompanying post said : `` Yet another successful late shift for Team 3 officers tonight !
Another cannabis factory found with around 200 plants spread over 5 rooms .
`` Also a large machete was found in the living area .
One male in custody after a short foot chase . ''
Tell-tale signs that a property is being used to grow cannabis include a strong sweet smell , heat surges , high electricity bills and permanently shuttered or covered windows .
People may also be coming and going at all hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fertiliser regularly being taken to the property .
Cannabis farms also pose a serious fire hazard , as often the electricity meter has been bypassed and overloaded electrical circuits run close to water-filled pipes .
Plants grown upstairs in a building can also cause floorboards to rot , presenting the danger of collapse .
Anyone with concerns should contact police .
In the UK , cannabis is categorised as a class B drug which will result in penalties for those found in possession , dealing or producing the substance .
Police can issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £90 if you ’ re found with cannabis .
Being found in possession of class B drugs can result in up to five years in prison , an unlimited fine or both .
Those convicted for supplying or production of class B drugs can face up to 14 years in prison .

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A man has been arrested after a huge cannabis factory was uncovered in Walsall.
Cops found 200 plants packed into five rooms of the undisclosed property during a "successful" shift last night (Saturday, May 9).
A large machete was also discovered in the living room.
Police say the man ended up in custody following a short foot chase.
(Image: WMP)
The team from St Matthew's Police took to Twitter to share photographs from the scene - as can be seen above .
They show rows of plants growing under artificial lights as well as ventilation systems and wires.
An accompanying post said: "Yet another successful late shift for Team 3 officers tonight! Another cannabis factory found with around 200 plants spread over 5 rooms.
"Also a large machete was found in the living area. One male in custody after a short foot chase."
Tell-tale signs that a property is being used to grow cannabis include a strong sweet smell, heat surges, high electricity bills and permanently shuttered or covered windows.
People may also be coming and going at all hours of the night and you may see fertiliser regularly being taken to the property.
Cannabis farms also pose a serious fire hazard, as often the electricity meter has been bypassed and overloaded electrical circuits run close to water-filled pipes.
Plants grown upstairs in a building can also cause floorboards to rot, presenting the danger of collapse.
Anyone with concerns should contact police.
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In the UK, cannabis is categorised as a class B drug which will result in penalties for those found in possession, dealing or producing the substance.
Police can issue a warning or an on-the-spot fine of £90 if you’re found with cannabis.
Being found in possession of class B drugs can result in up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.
Those convicted for supplying or production of class B drugs can face up to 14 years in prison.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Family of five and dog rescued from 'severe' flat fire

Fire crews rescued a family-of-five and a dog from their burning ground floor flat after a `` severe '' blaze .
West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said they were called to a 15-storey tower block in Newtown .
Firefighters - who responded to the initial call within five minutes - found a severe fire and smoke logging which had affected a number of floors .
The cause of the fire has not been revealed .
In a Facebook post , the fire service said : `` We 've rescued a family of five and a dog , by ladder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a ground floor flat of a 15-storey tower block in Newtown , # Birmingham .
`` Our crews arrived within 5 minutes of the initial call .
Smoke logging affected several floors but the fire is now out . ''
In a follow up tweet , the fire brigade added : `` Further update from Incident in Newtown , Birmingham .
`` Crews arrived within 5 minutes of the initial call and quickly rescued a number of people from the premise .
Fire is now out but crews will remain at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure it is left safe . ''
Huge praise came from social media users following the rescue .
One said : `` Heroes all of you ... always were ... ! ''
While another added : `` Well done..our fire service is wonderful . ''
Highlighting the five-minute response time , the fire service said it 's `` very proud to be the only fire and rescue service in the country graded 'outstanding ' for our response services by Her Majesty 's Inspectorate of Constabulary & Fire and Rescue Services . ''
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times on its website .
Pleas visit www.wmfs.net

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Fire crews rescued a family-of-five and a dog from their burning ground floor flat after a "severe" blaze.
West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said they were called to a 15-storey tower block in Newtown.
Firefighters - who responded to the initial call within five minutes - found a severe fire and smoke logging which had affected a number of floors.
The cause of the fire has not been revealed.
In a Facebook post, the fire service said: "We've rescued a family of five and a dog, by ladder, after a severe fire broke out in a ground floor flat of a 15-storey tower block in Newtown, #Birmingham.
"Our crews arrived within 5 minutes of the initial call. Smoke logging affected several floors but the fire is now out."
In a follow up tweet, the fire brigade added: "Further update from Incident in Newtown, Birmingham.
"Crews arrived within 5 minutes of the initial call and quickly rescued a number of people from the premise. Fire is now out but crews will remain at the scene for a period of time to ensure it is left safe."
Huge praise came from social media users following the rescue.
One said: "Heroes all of you... always were...!"
While another added: "Well done..our fire service is wonderful."
Highlighting the five-minute response time, the fire service said it's "very proud to be the only fire and rescue service in the country graded 'outstanding' for our response services by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary & Fire and Rescue Services."
You can read more about their speedy response times on its website. Pleas visit www.wmfs.net


birminghammail--2020-05-10--What time is Boris Johnson's speech on lockdown and which TV channel?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will make a landmark speech to the nation this evening .
The PM will address the nation over lifting the lockdown in a speech to Brits on Sunday night .
Mr Johnson will proceed with `` extreme caution '' in easing the lockdown , a Cabinet minister has said , as he warned the public not to `` throw away '' their hard work by going outside .
The First Minister of Wales has said he believes the UK will take a common approach and `` move forward in the same basic way '' when easing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and even e-scooters could be part of a new normal as it was revealed that social distancing would see just one in 10 passengers able to travel if the public transport network was running at full capacity .
Mr Johnson 's speech will be broadcast from 7pm , followed by a BBC News special , on BBC One .
The Prime Minister 's words will also be available to watch live on ITV , Channel 4 , Channel 5 and Sky News .
Mr Johnson - who beat Covid-19 himself - is expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` road map '' on how it will lift restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic .
The next steps in the UK 's lockdown plan will be revealed tonight as BirminghamLive brings you live coverage .

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Prime Minister Boris Johnson will make a landmark speech to the nation this evening.
The PM will address the nation over lifting the lockdown in a speech to Brits on Sunday night.
Mr Johnson will proceed with "extreme caution" in easing the lockdown, a Cabinet minister has said, as he warned the public not to "throw away" their hard work by going outside.
The First Minister of Wales has said he believes the UK will take a common approach and "move forward in the same basic way" when easing lockdown restrictions.
More walking, cycling and even e-scooters could be part of a new normal as it was revealed that social distancing would see just one in 10 passengers able to travel if the public transport network was running at full capacity.
Mr Johnson's speech will be broadcast from 7pm, followed by a BBC News special, on BBC One.
The Prime Minister's words will also be available to watch live on ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and Sky News.
Mr Johnson - who beat Covid-19 himself - is expected to reveal on Sunday the Government's "road map" on how it will lift restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic.
The next steps in the UK's lockdown plan will be revealed tonight as BirminghamLive brings you live coverage.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Two large city cannabis farms busted by police

Police have raided two Birmingham cannabis farms after responding to burglary reports .
West Midlands Police Force Response found no-one at the properties in Acocks Green and Washwood Heath - but did not leave empty-handed .
Officers discovered a number of cannabis plants at both locations with their actions `` causing serious disruption '' to the illicit enterprise .
They shared pictures on Twitter of the haul and also warned of the dangers of overloading plug sockets , which appeared blackened .
The Force Response tweet said : `` # Cteam stechford with @ WMPDogs have attended 2 separate reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WashwoodWMP , on both occasions no persons located but weve not left empty handed and have caused serious disruption , if the owners wish to claim get in touch @ WMPolice `` And sharing a snap of a blackened multi plug socket , a tweet added : `` A further example of the dangers that cannabis grows can cause . ''
In a separate incident , the same response team responded to the welfare of a woman .
The Tweet said : `` # Cteam stechford attended a call for service from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SmallHeathWMP area , who had concerns for a female .
Female located safe and well , 1 arrested for kidnap , assault and possession of cannabis , @ NCDV_Official @ WMPolice . ''
In another also held a female in the Moseley Heath area , who was wanted for recall to prison .
The Force Response page is followed by 17,000 users on Twitter .

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Police have raided two Birmingham cannabis farms after responding to burglary reports.
West Midlands Police Force Response found no-one at the properties in Acocks Green and Washwood Heath - but did not leave empty-handed.
Officers discovered a number of cannabis plants at both locations with their actions "causing serious disruption" to the illicit enterprise.
They shared pictures on Twitter of the haul and also warned of the dangers of overloading plug sockets, which appeared blackened.
The Force Response tweet said: " #Cteam stechford with @WMPDogs have attended 2 separate reports of burglaries tonight in @AcocksGreenWMP and @WashwoodWMP, on both occasions no persons located but weve not left empty handed and have caused serious disruption, if the owners wish to claim get in touch @WMPolice "
And sharing a snap of a blackened multi plug socket, a tweet added: "A further example of the dangers that cannabis grows can cause."
In a separate incident, the same response team responded to the welfare of a woman.
The Tweet said: " #Cteam stechford attended a call for service from other residents of a multi occupancy property @SmallHeathWMP area,who had concerns for a female. Female located safe and well, 1 arrested for kidnap, assault and possession of cannabis, @NCDV_Official @WMPolice."
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In another also held a female in the Moseley Heath area, who was wanted for recall to prison.
The Force Response page is followed by 17,000 users on Twitter.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Girl, 7, who wanted to raise £50 for NHS sees fundraising reach £2,500

A girl has managed to thousands for the NHS - smashing her target by selling rainbow ribbons to raise funds for nurses and doctors .
Brilliant Maisie Gibson , aged just seven , used her time in lockdown to create rainbow ribbons which she has subsequently sold off to raise funds for healthcare workers .
Maisie , from Worcestershire , created the ribbons for mum Charlotte to advertise via social media .
The seven-year-old , from Malvern , initially said she wanted to raise just £50 for the NHS as hero healthcare workers battle the coronavirus pandemic .
But as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Maisie has managed to see her fundraising efforts soar to a staggering £2,500 .
More than a hundred of her rainbow ribbons have been mailed out and the family has seen stamps , 90m of ribbon and pins donated .
Charlotte told BBC Hereford and Worcester that Maisie will keep making the ribbons as long as demand is there .
Charlotte said : “ She made a few rainbow ribbons and I put them on social media .
She wanted to raise some money for people like her grandmother who works for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from coronavirus .
“ Maisie has so far had 400 ribbons ordered , 80 of which have been requested by doctors at Worcestershire Royal , '' Charlotte added .

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A girl has managed to thousands for the NHS - smashing her target by selling rainbow ribbons to raise funds for nurses and doctors.
Brilliant Maisie Gibson, aged just seven, used her time in lockdown to create rainbow ribbons which she has subsequently sold off to raise funds for healthcare workers.
Maisie, from Worcestershire, created the ribbons for mum Charlotte to advertise via social media.
The seven-year-old, from Malvern, initially said she wanted to raise just £50 for the NHS as hero healthcare workers battle the coronavirus pandemic.
But as the brave frontline NHS staff battle Covid-19, Maisie has managed to see her fundraising efforts soar to a staggering £2,500.
More than a hundred of her rainbow ribbons have been mailed out and the family has seen stamps, 90m of ribbon and pins donated.
Charlotte told BBC Hereford and Worcester that Maisie will keep making the ribbons as long as demand is there.
Charlotte said: “She made a few rainbow ribbons and I put them on social media. She wanted to raise some money for people like her grandmother who works for the NHS and has also recently recovered from coronavirus.
“She set herself a £50 target and smashed it.”
“Maisie has so far had 400 ribbons ordered, 80 of which have been requested by doctors at Worcestershire Royal," Charlotte added.
To follow Maisie's progress, head here.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Paul Merson claims Villa 'have to' sell Grealish if they go down

Paul Merson has warned that Aston Villa will ‘ have to ’ sell Jack Grealish – if they are relegated at the end of the season .
The Villa skipper has been extensively linked with a move away when the window opens , with Manchester United believed to see him as a transfer priority .
There have been claims that United launched a bid for Grealish in the January window , although he turned that down to stay with his boyhood club .
Before the coronavirus pandemic suspended the Premier League campaign , Dean Smith ’ s men were 19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have one game in hand on their relegation rivals , with ten fixtures remaining , should the season resume .
Villa are believed to be against the latest ‘ Project Restart ’ proposal to play games , behind-closed-doors and at neutral veues .
Sign up to your club 's daily newsletter here Reports in the national press have suggested Premier League bosses are considering relegating the bottom three , if the season does not restart .
And former Villa star Paul Merson , has claimed that if they do go down , Grealish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ‘ better himself ’ .
“ I would say 100 per cent .
If Villa go down then I think they will get rid of Jack and he will be sold , ' Merson told Sky Sports .
“ He 's a Villa man through and through , he loves Aston Villa , but he will have to move on , there is no doubt about that if he wants to better himself .
“ It 's horrible saying that , better yourself , because it 's a great club , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League .
“ In this day and age , you play in the Premier League if you want to play for England .
It 's very rare that you 're not playing in the Premier League or a top European league and you 're playing for England .
For me , he would have to be sold.
” Grealish was widely expected to earn his maiden England call-up before elite football was halted and Merson has claimed that the one-year delay to Euro 2020 could help him get into Gareth Southgate ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably helps Jack Grealish .
I think Jack Grealish was probably a 30-70 or 35-65 against him to go , so one more good season this year , ” he added .
“ I think he will move on and I think it will help him .
”

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Paul Merson has warned that Aston Villa will ‘have to’ sell Jack Grealish – if they are relegated at the end of the season.
The Villa skipper has been extensively linked with a move away when the window opens, with Manchester United believed to see him as a transfer priority.
There have been claims that United launched a bid for Grealish in the January window, although he turned that down to stay with his boyhood club.
(Image: PA)
Dean Smith's men remain 19th in the Premier League having been out of action for more than two months due to the coronavirus pandemic. They do have one game in hand on their relegation rivals, with ten fixtures remaining, should the season resume.
Villa are believed to be against the latest ‘Project Restart’ proposal to play games, behind-closed-doors and at neutral veues.
Sign up to your club's daily newsletter here
Reports in the national press have suggested Premier League bosses are considering relegating the bottom three, if the season does not restart.
And former Villa star Paul Merson, has claimed that if they do go down, Grealish will have to depart, in order to ‘better himself’.
“I would say 100 per cent. If Villa go down then I think they will get rid of Jack and he will be sold,' Merson told Sky Sports.
“He's a Villa man through and through, he loves Aston Villa, but he will have to move on, there is no doubt about that if he wants to better himself.
“It's horrible saying that, better yourself, because it's a great club, but he will have to play in the Premier League.
“In this day and age, you play in the Premier League if you want to play for England. It's very rare that you're not playing in the Premier League or a top European league and you're playing for England. For me, he would have to be sold.”
Grealish was widely expected to earn his maiden England call-up before elite football was halted and Merson has claimed that the one-year delay to Euro 2020 could help him get into Gareth Southgate’s squad.
“I think it probably helps Jack Grealish. I think Jack Grealish was probably a 30-70 or 35-65 against him to go, so one more good season this year,” he added.
“I think he will move on and I think it will help him.”


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Dad uses lockdown to build epic kennel for dog - and it cost nothing

If your pet needs pampering during the lockdown , take a leaf out of this DIY-pro ’ s book and build them their very own home in your garden .
Ben Warr-Barnes , 41 , from Cheshire , built his Staffordshire Bull Terrier Pixie an amazing new house - and the project cost him nothing at all as he used everything from leftover tiles to an old dining table as materials for the project .
Dad-of-two Ben told money-saving community LatestDeals.co.uk `` I came up with the idea because the old shed that doubled up as a dog kennel was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Going from working 40 plus hours a week as a window installer to doing nothing , I needed something to do with what I had already around in the van and old shed .
“ The kennel evolved as I built it .
The floor , or base , is an old dining table raised up on sleeper offcuts to keep it away from rain and damp .
`` The structure is old uPVC window frames without the glass .
The inside was plywood lined again from offcuts from past jobs .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cladded with feather edge cladding left over from a fence repair .
`` The roof is Tapco tiles that were spare from the last conservatory roof conversion I did for work.
” Ben says a project like this is an ideal way to pass the time under lockdown .
`` I think it turned out better than I thought it would , ” he adds .
`` I enjoyed doing it and think it helped me cope with staying home because I 'm usually an active person so to go to doing nothing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do it , I just say have a go .
Instead of old window you could use pallets for the structure and for the roof you could just use roofing felt , as long as it 's solid and waterproof .
`` It cost me nothing as I already had the stuff - and Pixie loves her new house ! ''
Tom Church , co-founder of LatestDeals.co.uk comments : “ Those of us with pets will know how much we love them and would do anything to spoil them - but Pixie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got a whole bespoke house made for her !
“ Best of all , the house cost her owner nothing to make , as Ben was creative with the materials he used - if you ’ re looking to do a lockdown DIY project too , look around your home for leftover bits you can already use to keep the costs down . ''

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If your pet needs pampering during the lockdown, take a leaf out of this DIY-pro’s book and build them their very own home in your garden.
Ben Warr-Barnes, 41, from Cheshire, built his Staffordshire Bull Terrier Pixie an amazing new house - and the project cost him nothing at all as he used everything from leftover tiles to an old dining table as materials for the project.
Dad-of-two Ben told money-saving community LatestDeals.co.uk "I came up with the idea because the old shed that doubled up as a dog kennel was old and an eye sore.
"Going from working 40 plus hours a week as a window installer to doing nothing, I needed something to do with what I had already around in the van and old shed.
“The kennel evolved as I built it. The floor, or base, is an old dining table raised up on sleeper offcuts to keep it away from rain and damp.
"The structure is old uPVC window frames without the glass. The inside was plywood lined again from offcuts from past jobs.
“Then, for the outside, I cladded with feather edge cladding left over from a fence repair.
"The roof is Tapco tiles that were spare from the last conservatory roof conversion I did for work.”
Ben says a project like this is an ideal way to pass the time under lockdown. "I think it turned out better than I thought it would,” he adds.
"I enjoyed doing it and think it helped me cope with staying home because I'm usually an active person so to go to doing nothing is hard.
“For anyone wanting to do it, I just say have a go. Instead of old window you could use pallets for the structure and for the roof you could just use roofing felt, as long as it's solid and waterproof.
"It cost me nothing as I already had the stuff - and Pixie loves her new house!"
Tom Church, co-founder of LatestDeals.co.uk comments: “Those of us with pets will know how much we love them and would do anything to spoil them - but Pixie is luckier than most, as she got a whole bespoke house made for her!
“Best of all, the house cost her owner nothing to make, as Ben was creative with the materials he used - if you’re looking to do a lockdown DIY project too, look around your home for leftover bits you can already use to keep the costs down."


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Mum's fear over being ridiculed for naming twins after Gallagher brothers

A mum who has given her two children some controversial names now fears people will ridicule her for her choices .
Naturally , the choice of moniker given to children can be a contentious point for any couple .
You 'll likely draw up shortlists and have disagreements over your preferred names for both baby boys and baby girls .
But what if you both agree - only for other people to judge you ?
That 's the worry for mum , who has taken to the internet share her quandary .
On popular parenting website Mumsnet , she wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ names ?
!
`` I have always been a massive Oasis fan ( sorry Blur fans ) and they have influenced me and inspired me throughout my entire life .
`` When I found out I was having two little twin boys , I thought it would be amazing to name them after the Gallagher brothers !
`` I thought it was a sweet idea , but people seem to frown and laugh thinking it 's a joke !
! ''
In fact , the thread racked up more than 200 replies .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ their children `` Ronnie and Reggie '' , presumably after the infamous Kray twins .
Another said Liam and Noel were `` normal , mainstream names '' .
But another countered , saying they would n't be surprised if people `` laugh '' .
`` It ’ s not like it ’ s a Ringo type name or whatever , '' reasoned another .

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A mum who has given her two children some controversial names now fears people will ridicule her for her choices.
Naturally, the choice of moniker given to children can be a contentious point for any couple.
You'll likely draw up shortlists and have disagreements over your preferred names for both baby boys and baby girls.
But what if you both agree - only for other people to judge you?
That's the worry for mum, who has taken to the internet share her quandary.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
On popular parenting website Mumsnet, she wrote: "Judged for my kids' names?!
"I have always been a massive Oasis fan (sorry Blur fans) and they have influenced me and inspired me throughout my entire life.
"When I found out I was having two little twin boys, I thought it would be amazing to name them after the Gallagher brothers!
"I thought it was a sweet idea, but people seem to frown and laugh thinking it's a joke!!"
Naturally, Mumsnet users flocked to reply.
In fact, the thread racked up more than 200 replies.
One commented how their friend had named their children "Ronnie and Reggie", presumably after the infamous Kray twins.
Another said Liam and Noel were "normal, mainstream names".
But another countered, saying they wouldn't be surprised if people "laugh".
"It’s not like it’s a Ringo type name or whatever," reasoned another.
Fair point.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Martin Lewis' urgent advice to anybody with a car during lockdown

Martin Lewis has issued some key advice for anybody with a car sitting on the driveway amid the ongoing coronavirus lockdown .
The MoneySavingExpert.com founder is among the most trusted people in the country when it comes to financial advice .
His guidance has propelled him to having his own ITV1 show , The Martin Lewis Money Show , which airs weekly .
And Mr Lewis is also regularly seen during stints on the likes of Lorraine , This Morning and Good Morning Britain .
His award-winning MoneySavingExpert website and blog has a legion of fans across the country .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ driving - and owning a car - during the ongoing nationwide shutdown .
Mr Lewis is renowned for his financial tricks , tips and hacks , and in an update to his followers , he issued guidance over cancelling insurance .
The lockdown has seen many cars out of use , with the roads eerily quiet around Birmingham .
Mr Lewis says : `` The difficulty is we do n't know how long lockdown will last .
`` If it 's just weeks , this 'd be a faff for a small saving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you 'll drive much anyway even when the rules relax , then , for example , if you 've two cars and are only likely to use one , it could save you cash .
`` Though do remember if you 've no car insurance , your car is n't covered for damage or theft . ''

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Martin Lewis has issued some key advice for anybody with a car sitting on the driveway amid the ongoing coronavirus lockdown.
The MoneySavingExpert.com founder is among the most trusted people in the country when it comes to financial advice.
His guidance has propelled him to having his own ITV1 show, The Martin Lewis Money Show, which airs weekly.
And Mr Lewis is also regularly seen during stints on the likes of Lorraine, This Morning and Good Morning Britain.
His award-winning MoneySavingExpert website and blog has a legion of fans across the country.
And his latest advice all relates to driving - and owning a car - during the ongoing nationwide shutdown.
Mr Lewis is renowned for his financial tricks, tips and hacks, and in an update to his followers, he issued guidance over cancelling insurance.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The lockdown has seen many cars out of use, with the roads eerily quiet around Birmingham.
On cancelling car insurance, Mr Lewis says: "The difficulty is we don't know how long lockdown will last.
"If it's just weeks, this'd be a faff for a small saving."
But he adds: "Yet if you don't think you'll drive much anyway even when the rules relax, then, for example, if you've two cars and are only likely to use one, it could save you cash.
"Though do remember if you've no car insurance, your car isn't covered for damage or theft."
Even if you're not driving at all due to the lockdown, you'll still need car insurance, unless you keep your vehicle on private land in which you will need a SORN.
Mr Lewis also says people could request payment holidays from next Wednesday, May 13.
He said it applies to car instalment payments, revealing: "The Financial Conduct Authority has announced proposals, likely to be rubber stamped this week and in place by next Wednesday, that mean people can get several things."
These include payment holidays for 1-3 months on request, this is for those paying monthly insurance and struggling because of coronavirus.


birminghammail--2020-05-10--Home Bargains shoppers flock to buy £1.19 item which has gone viral

Home Bargains is selling a product which has left shoppers in a frenzy amid the ongoing coronavirus lockdown .
The budget retailer is flogging pre-made salt and pepper seasoning .
The cheap product - priced at just over £1 - has left customers desperately trying to get their hands on it .
It comes amid the coronavirus lockdown , which has led to a spike in people creating 'fakeaway ' meals in their own homes , according to The Liverpool Echo .
Home Bargains ' Kerala Chinese Salt & Pepper Chilli Pepper Seasoning rings in at just £1.19 - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on social media .
One gushed : `` I made salt and pepper chips with it last night .
Was absolutely delicious !
I recommend it . ''
A second , meanwhile , chipped in : `` I just used these , chopped some spring onion , red onion , mushrooms and red chilli 's and fried it all together with garlic oil then sprinkled the seasoning over !
Easy peasy ! ''
Home Bargains is among the retailers still operating despite the ongoing lockdown .
Other stores deemed 'essential ' to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likes of KFC and Pret A Manger .
Supermarkets - from Tesco and Sainsbury 's , to Waitrose , Iceland and Morrisons , to Aldi and Lidl - are also welcoming customers , as well as DIY favourites like B & Q and Homebase .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Catherine Murphy, James Rodger)

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Home Bargains is selling a product which has left shoppers in a frenzy amid the ongoing coronavirus lockdown.
The budget retailer is flogging pre-made salt and pepper seasoning.
The cheap product - priced at just over £1 - has left customers desperately trying to get their hands on it.
It comes amid the coronavirus lockdown, which has led to a spike in people creating 'fakeaway' meals in their own homes, according to The Liverpool Echo.
Home Bargains' Kerala Chinese Salt & Pepper Chilli Pepper Seasoning rings in at just £1.19 - and it has won a legion of fans on social media.
One gushed: "I made salt and pepper chips with it last night. Was absolutely delicious! I recommend it."
A second, meanwhile, chipped in: "I just used these, chopped some spring onion, red onion, mushrooms and red chilli's and fried it all together with garlic oil then sprinkled the seasoning over! Easy peasy!"
Home Bargains is among the retailers still operating despite the ongoing lockdown.
Other stores deemed 'essential' to be operating in Birmingham right now include the likes of KFC and Pret A Manger.
Supermarkets - from Tesco and Sainsbury's, to Waitrose, Iceland and Morrisons, to Aldi and Lidl - are also welcoming customers, as well as DIY favourites like B&Q and Homebase.