birminghammail--2020-10-14--Every word from Purslow's revealing interview on Project Big Picture

Aston Villa chief executive Christian Purslow appeared on BBC Radio 4 this morning to discuss the Project Big Picture plans that will be on the agenda at today 's Premier League meeting .
The plans include cutting the number of teams in the top-flight to 18 , handing more power to the 'Big Six ' and other longest-serving clubs and offering an immediate £250million bailout to the EFL .
EFL chairman Rick Parry has publicly backed the proposals having held meetings with representatives from Liverpool and Manchester United and it is understood most of the EFL 's 72 clubs are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is understood the majority of Premier League clubs have serious reservations about what is currently on the table .
Here is every word from Purslow 's interview : Is it fair to say that big clubs need to bail out smaller clubs ?
`` Yes I think it is fair enough and the comments made by the chairman of Rochdale are timely .
At the heart of this row is the coronavirus crisis and its impact on professional football in the UK at all levels .
`` What you heard from Bury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clubs at the very top of the pyramid in that not having fans in stadia for such an extended period of time - now looking like that will extend well into next year - is having a dramatic impact on income at all levels and that needs to be addressed .
`` I think it 's highly unlikely that the plan as described in public through the document that 's been published is going to get much traction within the Premier League itself .
`` It 's come at a time of crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the Premier League - the most successful league in the world - and the government about how we address both the short term financial crisis in football and yes , some of the longer term structural issues that also need addressing .
`` While I think there are elements of what we 've read in this plan that make great sense and there is a need for football to look over the long term at the structures and economic and sporting relationships between the top leagues , in the short term the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of going out of business .
`` I think it 's amazing that the head of the EFL - which is already receiving nearly £400m a year - would choose to go live with a plan without discussing it directly with the Premier League .
Rick Parry would say 'at least it is a plan ' to bail clubs out '' There is wide agreement in football and a contractual obligation in place that drives money down from the Premier League to the lower level of football .
`` They are called solidarity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club has received nearly £5m from the Premier League , twice as much as they received from their TV contracts .
`` The idea that somehow the Premier League does not acknowledge [ the pyramid ] and take a hugely important role in funding it is fantasy .
`` While I applaud that the Championship and Leagues One and Two want to engage with the Premier League , the way to do that is to talk to the chairman and chief executive through the front door , not to head over to Florida @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two Premier League teams .
Do you think think a decision will be reached today via a vote ?
`` I expect there to be a very honest , transparent and open dialogue between the 20 Premier League clubs today , let 's face it .
`` I also expect there to be concrete proposals brought forward by the Premier League executive on funding for lower levels of football .
`` That 's what I hope to see happen today but I do n't think we should give too much credence to this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long-term plan for football is what I would expect to come from the Premier League . ''

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Aston Villa chief executive Christian Purslow appeared on BBC Radio 4 this morning to discuss the Project Big Picture plans that will be on the agenda at today's Premier League meeting.
The plans include cutting the number of teams in the top-flight to 18, handing more power to the 'Big Six' and other longest-serving clubs and offering an immediate £250million bailout to the EFL.
EFL chairman Rick Parry has publicly backed the proposals having held meetings with representatives from Liverpool and Manchester United and it is understood most of the EFL's 72 clubs are in support of it too.
But it is understood the majority of Premier League clubs have serious reservations about what is currently on the table.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Here is every word from Purslow's interview:
Is it fair to say that big clubs need to bail out smaller clubs?
"Yes I think it is fair enough and the comments made by the chairman of Rochdale are timely. At the heart of this row is the coronavirus crisis and its impact on professional football in the UK at all levels.
"What you heard from Bury is what you would also hear from clubs at the very top of the pyramid in that not having fans in stadia for such an extended period of time - now looking like that will extend well into next year - is having a dramatic impact on income at all levels and that needs to be addressed.
Project Big Picture plan - will Villa back it?
"I think it's highly unlikely that the plan as described in public through the document that's been published is going to get much traction within the Premier League itself.
"It's come at a time of crisis, when serious conversations are well underway between the Premier League - the most successful league in the world - and the government about how we address both the short term financial crisis in football and yes, some of the longer term structural issues that also need addressing.
"While I think there are elements of what we've read in this plan that make great sense and there is a need for football to look over the long term at the structures and economic and sporting relationships between the top leagues, in the short term the priority is funding and clubs in danger of going out of business.
"I think it's amazing that the head of the EFL - which is already receiving nearly £400m a year - would choose to go live with a plan without discussing it directly with the Premier League.
Rick Parry would say 'at least it is a plan' to bail clubs out
"There is wide agreement in football and a contractual obligation in place that drives money down from the Premier League to the lower level of football.
"They are called solidarity payments and already this season each Championship club has received nearly £5m from the Premier League, twice as much as they received from their TV contracts.
"The idea that somehow the Premier League does not acknowledge [the pyramid] and take a hugely important role in funding it is fantasy.
"While I applaud that the Championship and Leagues One and Two want to engage with the Premier League, the way to do that is to talk to the chairman and chief executive through the front door, not to head over to Florida or Boston and discuss it with only two Premier League teams.
Do you think think a decision will be reached today via a vote?
"I expect there to be a very honest, transparent and open dialogue between the 20 Premier League clubs today, let's face it.
"I also expect there to be concrete proposals brought forward by the Premier League executive on funding for lower levels of football.
"That's what I hope to see happen today but I don't think we should give too much credence to this particular plan. A much broader, long-term plan for football is what I would expect to come from the Premier League."


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Martin Lewis' urgent PayPal warning to millions who have an account

Martin Lewis has sent out an active plea to many PayPal users where they could be charged a large fee .
The Money Saving Expert always gives out plenty of extremely helpful advice to consumers through his Money Saving Expert website or on his ITV show .
Martin recently warned many of us that we could be missing out on hundreds of pounds in coronavirus payments and a mortgage warning to anyone who may own a home .
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to mess with our finances and income , Martin has become an important safe haven for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our cash .
And now the Money Saving Expert has warning us that those with a PayPal account could be charged a £12 fee if we do n't use it .
If you 're worrying that you have an account that you do n't use , never fret because Martin has told us how to avoid the charge .
It is very simple according to the Manchester Evening News .
All anyone with a PayPal account has to do is log into their account or make a transaction before December 15 as from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charged the fee if their accounts have been inactive for at least 12 consecutive months .
PayPal defines `` inactive '' as an account where the user has n't sent , received or withdrawn money , or logged into their account .
The explanation on the MSE website adds that if the user does n't have any money in their PayPal account , or the balance is negative , you wo n't be charged a fee , even if you have a credit or debit card linked to the account .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it would warn inactive users about the fee 60 days , 30 days and then seven days before they are charged .
So you will have a few opportunities to avoid the charge .
The other option is , if the account is no longer used , is to simply close it before the deadline .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jessica Sandsome, Chris  Harper)

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Martin Lewis has sent out an active plea to many PayPal users where they could be charged a large fee.
The Money Saving Expert always gives out plenty of extremely helpful advice to consumers through his Money Saving Expert website or on his ITV show.
Martin recently warned many of us that we could be missing out on hundreds of pounds in coronavirus payments and a mortgage warning to anyone who may own a home.
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to mess with our finances and income, Martin has become an important safe haven for those who want to get the most from our cash.
And now the Money Saving Expert has warning us that those with a PayPal account could be charged a £12 fee if we don't use it.
If you're worrying that you have an account that you don't use, never fret because Martin has told us how to avoid the charge.
It is very simple according to the Manchester Evening News. All anyone with a PayPal account has to do is log into their account or make a transaction before December 15 as from December 16, PayPal users will be charged the fee if their accounts have been inactive for at least 12 consecutive months.
PayPal defines "inactive" as an account where the user hasn't sent, received or withdrawn money, or logged into their account.
The explanation on the MSE website adds that if the user doesn't have any money in their PayPal account, or the balance is negative, you won't be charged a fee, even if you have a credit or debit card linked to the account.
If you do forget all about it, PayPal said it would warn inactive users about the fee 60 days, 30 days and then seven days before they are charged.
So you will have a few opportunities to avoid the charge.
The other option is, if the account is no longer used, is to simply close it before the deadline.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Amazon launch huge 40% off Prime Day deal on beauty gift sets

Christmas gift sets , beauty must haves and everything in between- Amazon are helping us get stocked up for Christmas !
The huge retailer has increasingly wowed shoppers with their unbeatable Prime Day deals , which include some of their most precious , popular products .
Amazon Prime Day this year lands on 13 and 14 October- and already there are some incredible savings to be made , including up to 40 % off beauty gift sets ( massively handy for getting prepared for Christmas ! )
.
Here are a couple of the best deals we could find including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Real Techniques and Toni & Guy .
This signature gift for her comes with Sanctuary classic favourites , including shower gel , body scrub , body lotion , bubble bath , face wash , hand cream and foot cream- and all for just £21.75 ( saving of 46 % ) .
Dove Beauty Sleep Gift Set is a bunch of Christmas gifts for her and contains everything she needs for perfect , spa-soft skin .
Beautifully boxed Dove Beauty Sleep Gift Set for women contains 2 full-size DermaSpa Beauty Sleep products and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can get the set now for just £8.40 ( 30 % off ) .
This is a make up lovers dream , and is currently just £8.10 ( 32 % saving ) .
Toni & Guy Volume Styling Bag Collection Gift Set contains our Volume Addiction Shampoo and Conditioner , Heat Protection Mist , Brushable Hairspray and a multipurpose styling comb in an emerald green bag .
Volume Addicted Shampoo and Conditioner , 250ml each , pump up the volume and body with a unique fibre strengthening system .
This gift will only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % off ) .

Christmas gift sets, beauty must haves and everything in between- Amazon are helping us get stocked up for Christmas!
The retailer has increasingly wowed shoppers with their unbeatable deals around Prime Day, Black Friday and Christmas, which include some of their most precious, popular products.
Amazon Prime Day this year landed on 13 and 14 October and started the massive offer spree the huge retailer had to offer.
Already there are some incredible savings to be made, including up to 40% off beauty gift sets.
Here are a couple of the best deals we could find including huge brand names Dove, Sanctuary and Toni & Guy.
Sanctuary Spa Gift Set
This signature gift for her comes with Sanctuary classic favourites, including shower gel, body scrub, body lotion, bubble bath, face wash, hand cream and foot cream- and all for just £22.25 (saving of 44%).
Dove Beauty Sleep Gift Set
Dove Beauty Sleep Gift Set is a bunch of Christmas gifts for her and contains everything she needs for perfect, spa-soft skin.
Beautifully boxed Dove Beauty Sleep Gift Set for women contains 2 full-size DermaSpa Beauty Sleep products and a relaxing Eye Mask from Dove.
You can get the set now for just £9.80 (18% off).
This advent calendar contains 24 individual products including lip balm, hand cream, a face mask, shower cream, make-up remover and deodorant.
And, with a handy 25% off at £29.99, it's a bargain you don't want to miss.
Toni & Guy Hair Styling Christmas Gifts set
Toni&Guy Volume Styling Bag Collection Gift Set contains our Volume Addiction Shampoo and Conditioner, Heat Protection Mist, Brushable Hairspray and a multipurpose styling comb in an emerald green bag.
Volume Addicted Shampoo and Conditioner, 250ml each, pump up the volume and body with a unique fibre strengthening system.
This gift will only set you back £13.50 (with 25% off).


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Emotional reunion as stolen dog comes home

An 'elated ' family-of-five have been reunited with their beloved stolen dog after almost a fortnight of fearing the worst .
It 's believed Coco , the female Sprocker , was snatched ahead of a walk at Moseley Bog on Thursday morning , October 1 .
Roz Pearce had parked up at the Windmere Road entrance ready for a stroll with the 16-month old pooch the family had raised from a puppy .
But as the pet ran off into bushes beside their car , she was 'bundled ' into a grey Ford Focus which was thought to have sped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pearce , her husband Chris , his two daughters and nine-year-old son were left devastated by the theft of their precious dog .
However , now , less than two weeks later , Coco is back home - much to the delight of the family .
Sharing adorable photos of their reunion on Twitter this morning ( October 14 ) , dad Chris said : `` SHE ’ S HOME !
!
!
`` Thanks to the wonderful West Mercia Police Coco was returned to us in the early hours .
We ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family again and our little lad has his best friend back .
# FindCoco '' Finally , we know we are the lucky ones .
`` Hundreds of families aren ’ t as lucky and have yet to be reunited with their beloved dogs , please keep on raising awareness for them and help put families back together again . ''
Coco was returned by West Mercia Police officers , who attended a site in Evesham where the dog was recovered .
The discovery came after a national appeal to find her , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Midlands Police .
The force said it was taking the incident seriously and though no arrests had yet been made , enquiries are ongoing .
A previous statement from West Midlands Police read : `` Thanks for all your messages asking us what we ’ re doing following the theft of a dog in Moseley on Thursday .
`` Despite some comments on social media suggesting otherwise , we are treating this as a crime and we are taking it seriously .
`` We ’ re in the process of reviewing CCTV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in touch with the owners throughout the investigation .
`` We ’ ll share any updates we can , and would appeal for anyone who ’ s been offered a dog for sale in suspicious circumstances to get in touch .
Quote 20BE/237736L/20 . ''
Anyone with information can contact West Midlands Police via 101 or Live Chat on the force 's website .

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An 'elated' family-of-five have been reunited with their beloved stolen dog after almost a fortnight of fearing the worst.
It's believed Coco, the female Sprocker, was snatched ahead of a walk at Moseley Bog on Thursday morning, October 1.
Roz Pearce had parked up at the Windmere Road entrance ready for a stroll with the 16-month old pooch the family had raised from a puppy.
But as the pet ran off into bushes beside their car, she was 'bundled' into a grey Ford Focus which was thought to have sped off from the car park.
Mrs Pearce, her husband Chris, his two daughters and nine-year-old son were left devastated by the theft of their precious dog.
However, now, less than two weeks later, Coco is back home - much to the delight of the family.
Sharing adorable photos of their reunion on Twitter this morning (October 14), dad Chris said: "SHE’S HOME!!!
"Thanks to the wonderful West Mercia Police Coco was returned to us in the early hours. We’re obviously elated to be a complete family again and our little lad has his best friend back. #FindCoco
"Finally, we know we are the lucky ones.
"Hundreds of families aren’t as lucky and have yet to be reunited with their beloved dogs, please keep on raising awareness for them and help put families back together again."
(Image: West Mercia Police)
Coco was returned by West Mercia Police officers, who attended a site in Evesham where the dog was recovered.
The discovery came after a national appeal to find her, alongside an investigation into the theft by West Midlands Police.
The force said it was taking the incident seriously and though no arrests had yet been made, enquiries are ongoing.
A previous statement from West Midlands Police read: "Thanks for all your messages asking us what we’re doing following the theft of a dog in Moseley on Thursday.
"Despite some comments on social media suggesting otherwise, we are treating this as a crime and we are taking it seriously.
"We’re in the process of reviewing CCTV, and we’ll be keeping in touch with the owners throughout the investigation.
"We’ll share any updates we can, and would appeal for anyone who’s been offered a dog for sale in suspicious circumstances to get in touch. Quote 20BE/237736L/20."
Anyone with information can contact West Midlands Police via 101 or Live Chat on the force's website.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Two West Midlands MPs voted against 10pm pub curfew

Two West Midlands MPs defied orders from party leaders and voted against continuing the 10pm curfew which forces pubs and restaurants to close early .
They came from both main parties .
The rebels were Gary Sambrook , the Conservative MP for Birmingham Northfield , and John Spellar , the Labour MP for Warley in the Black Country .
It ’ s one sign of the unhappiness among local politicians about the way lockdown restrictions are affecting the West Midlands .
The vote took place on Tuesday night .
A package of measures including the curfew was approved by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 82 , a majority of 217 .
The vote was symbolic , as separate legislation meant the curfew could continue anyway , but it provided a chance for MPs to make their views clear .
Critics say the curfew is threatening jobs , by robbing businesses of customers , and argue there is no evidence that it is stopping the spread of coronavirus .
Conservative MPs were told to vote for the measure , but 42 from across the country voted against it .
And Labour MPs were told by their leadership to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Other local leaders have made their opposition to the Government ’ s approach clear in different ways .
Perhaps the most telling intervention came from Andrew Mitchell , the Conservative MP for Sutton Coldfield .
He suggested that the West Midlands had suffered from the Government ’ s determination to simplify the local lockdown rules .
His comments are particularly significant because Matt Hancock , the Health Secretary , appeared to agree with him .
The Government this week introduced a new three-tier system of local lockdowns .
Birmingham , Sandwell , Wolverhampton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the second tier , called the “ high ” alert level .
It meant the continuation of existing rules which bar people from socialising in private homes with anyone from a different household ( this restriction was already in place in much of the region , and was introduced in Walsall for the first time ) .
But it also meant that new rules were imposed , banning households from mixing in hospitality venues , such as bars or restaurants .
You can only go to the pub , or out for dinner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It means no more meeting friends for a drink , or taking your mum out for dinner .
And that ’ s expected to lead to a dramatic fall in custom for many venues .
Local leaders , such as Mr Mitchell and West Midlands Mayor Andy Street ( both Tories ) , as well as Birmingham ’ s Labour-led city council , had been lobbying the Government to avoid this outcome .
They feared it would cause huge damage to the economy .
And they actually thought they ’ d won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them on Monday that new hospitality restrictions would be imposed after all .
Why did this happen ?
Well , the pub rules are part of the second tier restrictions , which are being imposed in places like the North East of England - where the coronavirus infection rate is higher .
The West Midlands wanted to be placed in what might be called “ tier 1.5 ” - half way between the first tier ( where they are no special rules at all ) and the second tier .
But the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tier 1.5 .
It wanted a simple three tier system .
And so , the West Midlands has rules that are actually designed for other parts of the country , such as the North East , and arguably aren ’ t needed here - purely to keep things simple .
Speaking in the House of Commons , Mr Mitchell described this as a desire for “ neatness ” .
And Mr Hancock appeared to confirm that this is indeed what happened .
Mr Mitchell asked the Health Secretary : “ Will he bear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are concerned that yesterday ’ s change was made on the basis of neatness , not of medical need ?
Will he reassure me that he will always listen carefully to the West Midlands Mayor , Andy Street , as these matters all develop ?
Mr Hancock told him : “ Yes .
The introduction of the three-level system means that , in some areas where the local area has been working so effectively to get the curve flattened , as in the West Midlands , under the leadership of Andy Street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the past few days of data , but essentially a huge amount of progress has been made - changes have had to be made .
“ However , I will absolutely recommit to working with Andy Street , who is an incredibly effective voice for the West Midlands.
” Perhaps it ’ s no surprise that Mr Street has ditched his previous approach of quietly working closely with the Government and is now vocally criticising them - following the example of Labour mayors in the North , such as Greater Manchester mayor Andy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on mixing in hospitality venues as “ something the latest local epidemiology does not support ” , adding : “ I am disappointed that the Government is pressing ahead with this despite the united view of local leaders.
” Somehow , Boris Johnson and his government have managed to alienate one of the few regional mayors who was previously on their side .

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Two West Midlands MPs defied orders from party leaders and voted against continuing the 10pm curfew which forces pubs and restaurants to close early.
They came from both main parties. The rebels were Gary Sambrook, the Conservative MP for Birmingham Northfield, and John Spellar, the Labour MP for Warley in the Black Country.
It’s one sign of the unhappiness among local politicians about the way lockdown restrictions are affecting the West Midlands.
The vote took place on Tuesday night. A package of measures including the curfew was approved by the House of Commons by 299 votes to 82, a majority of 217. The vote was symbolic, as separate legislation meant the curfew could continue anyway, but it provided a chance for MPs to make their views clear.
Critics say the curfew is threatening jobs, by robbing businesses of customers, and argue there is no evidence that it is stopping the spread of coronavirus.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
Conservative MPs were told to vote for the measure, but 42 from across the country voted against it.
And Labour MPs were told by their leadership to abstain, but 23 voted against.
Other local leaders have made their opposition to the Government’s approach clear in different ways.
Perhaps the most telling intervention came from Andrew Mitchell, the Conservative MP for Sutton Coldfield. He suggested that the West Midlands had suffered from the Government’s determination to simplify the local lockdown rules.
His comments are particularly significant because Matt Hancock, the Health Secretary, appeared to agree with him.
The Government this week introduced a new three-tier system of local lockdowns. Birmingham, Sandwell, Wolverhampton, Solihull and Walsall were placed in the second tier, called the “high” alert level.
It meant the continuation of existing rules which bar people from socialising in private homes with anyone from a different household (this restriction was already in place in much of the region, and was introduced in Walsall for the first time).
But it also meant that new rules were imposed, banning households from mixing in hospitality venues, such as bars or restaurants.
You can only go to the pub, or out for dinner, with someone you already live with. It means no more meeting friends for a drink, or taking your mum out for dinner. And that’s expected to lead to a dramatic fall in custom for many venues.
Local leaders, such as Mr Mitchell and West Midlands Mayor Andy Street (both Tories), as well as Birmingham’s Labour-led city council, had been lobbying the Government to avoid this outcome. They feared it would cause huge damage to the economy.
And they actually thought they’d won, until the Department for Health informed them on Monday that new hospitality restrictions would be imposed after all.
Why did this happen? Well, the pub rules are part of the second tier restrictions, which are being imposed in places like the North East of England - where the coronavirus infection rate is higher.
The West Midlands wanted to be placed in what might be called “tier 1.5” - half way between the first tier (where they are no special rules at all) and the second tier.
But the Government didn’t want to have a tier 1.5. It wanted a simple three tier system. And so, the West Midlands has rules that are actually designed for other parts of the country, such as the North East, and arguably aren’t needed here - purely to keep things simple.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Mitchell described this as a desire for “neatness”. And Mr Hancock appeared to confirm that this is indeed what happened.
Mr Mitchell asked the Health Secretary: “Will he bear in mind that in the West Midlands we are concerned that yesterday’s change was made on the basis of neatness, not of medical need? Will he reassure me that he will always listen carefully to the West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, as these matters all develop?
Mr Hancock told him: “Yes. The introduction of the three-level system means that, in some areas where the local area has been working so effectively to get the curve flattened, as in the West Midlands, under the leadership of Andy Street - there has been a rise in the past few days of data, but essentially a huge amount of progress has been made - changes have had to be made.
“However, I will absolutely recommit to working with Andy Street, who is an incredibly effective voice for the West Midlands.”
Perhaps it’s no surprise that Mr Street has ditched his previous approach of quietly working closely with the Government and is now vocally criticising them - following the example of Labour mayors in the North, such as Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.
Mr Street described the ban on mixing in hospitality venues as “something the latest local epidemiology does not support”, adding: “I am disappointed that the Government is pressing ahead with this despite the united view of local leaders.”
Somehow, Boris Johnson and his government have managed to alienate one of the few regional mayors who was previously on their side.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Aston Villa handed 'opportunity' to complete Said Benrahma transfer

Aston Villa are still being linked with a move for Brentford winger Said Benrahma .
The Algeria international is rumoured to have been a target for a number of Premier League clubs this summer including Arsenal , Chelsea , Leeds United , Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham having enjoyed a stunning season in the Championship .
Benrahma used his first start of this season to score twice earlier this month , helping Brentford beat Fulham in the Carabao Cup and serve up a reminder of why he is one of the most talked about players outside the top-flight .
Here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead of Friday 's domestic transfer deadline .
Smith wanted to be reunited with the Brentford flier last summer but Villa were not willing to meet the Bees ' £20m asking price .
He has been heavily linked this year too , with reports earlier in the summer claiming Villa were ready to make their move .
Villa instead raided Brentford for Ollie Watkins , the striker joining in a club-record £28million deal to reunite with Dean Smith , and landed winger Bertrand Traore from Lyon making a move for Benrahma unlikely .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'opportunity ' to follow up their long-held interest ahead of this week 's deadline with a move to West Ham United having stalled .
Benrahma is still able to move to the Premier League because of the extended domestic window which runs until 5pm on Friday .
The Hammers agreed a fee of around £25million with an extra £5million in add-ons with Brentford over the weekend .
But he is yet to undergo a medical and has crucially not agreed personal teams , with the Bees now 'braced ' for other bids .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and West Ham are far from alone in reportedly holding an interest over the course of the summer .
According to The Athletic , Leeds United were keen as part of their plans to upgrade Marcelo Bielsa 's squad , and Crystal Palace had at one point been favourites for his signature .
Chelsea are thought to be long-term admirers while Arsenal have also been recently linked .
Benrahma wants a £16million contract to move to the Premier League .
The winger has been linked with a switch to the top-flight all summer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking for a basic of £60,000-a-week plus extras — and a five-year contract . '
When asked earlier in the summer about the transfer speculation involving top-flight sides , he told Metro ( via the Mirror ) : `` I was really flattered .
`` But , at the same time , I am so focused about getting out of the Championship with Brentford that I do not pay too much attention .
But it gives me confidence .
`` It has always been a target of mine to play in the Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Premier League with Brentford .
`` It would be magnificent for Brentford because it would be the first time and we have really been working hard on it . ''
After the win against Fulham on October 1 , Thomas Frank was quizzed on Benrahma 's future again .
`` Am I confident he will stay ?
I 'm confident that I would love him to stay , and I would love to have him , '' Frank said .
`` But I do n't know .
Honestly .
If the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selling , but if not we will be happy for him to stay .
`` Either we are going to get a top price or we are going to keep one of the best players in the Championship .
Has he added a few million to his price ?
100 per cent ! ''

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Aston Villa have been linked with Brentford winger Said Benrahma all summer.
The Algeria international is rumoured to have been a target for a number of Premier League clubs this summer including Arsenal, Chelsea, Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham having enjoyed a stunning season in the Championship.
Benrahma used his first start of this season to score twice earlier this month, helping Brentford beat Fulham in the Carabao Cup and serve up a reminder of why he is one of the most talked about players outside the top-flight.
Here is the latest on Benrahma's situation ahead of the 5pm domestic transfer deadline.
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Benrahma 'fails West Ham medical'
Benrahma has reportedly failed his medical after West Ham agreed a £25million fee for his services with Brentford.
Our colleagues at the Mirror report: "The deal is not completely dead but the terms of the deal could be restructured with the player leaving for considerably less than the fee agreed.
"The issue is understood to relate to blood tests which have been submitted for 'reinvestigation'.
"West Ham learned the news early on Friday morning and have been working with Brentford to find a way to keep the deal alive."
The report adds there had been a falling out between Benrahma and Brentford over a financial issue earlier this week.
West Ham boss David Moyes, however, poured cold water on the suggestions at a press conference today.
He told football.london: "That's not correct [failing a medical]. We are still hopeful something can be done later today but I can't guarantee that. Part of his medical is ongoing."
Villa's stance
Smith wanted to be reunited with the Brentford flier last summer but Villa were not willing to meet the Bees' £20m asking price.
He has been heavily linked this year too, with reports earlier in the summer claiming Villa were ready to make their move.
Villa instead raided Brentford for Ollie Watkins, the striker joining in a club-record £28million deal to reunite with Dean Smith, and landed winger Bertrand Traore from Lyon making a move for Benrahma unlikely.
Late 'opportunity'
But the Telegraph reported this week that Villa have an 'opportunity' to follow up their long-held interest because of the complications West Ham are having in completing the transfer.
Benrahma is still able to move to the Premier League because of the extended domestic window which runs until 5pm today.
It was claimed the Bees are 'braced' for bids from other clubs.
Who else has been linked?
Villa and West Ham are far from alone in reportedly holding an interest over the course of the summer.
According to The Athletic, Leeds United were keen as part of their plans to upgrade Marcelo Bielsa's squad, and Crystal Palace had at one point been favourites for his signature.
Chelsea are thought to be long-term admirers while Arsenal have also been recently linked.
Benrahma 'wants £16m contract'
Benrahma wants a £16million contract to move to the Premier League.
The winger has been linked with a switch to the top-flight all summer and The Sun reported he is 'is looking for a basic of £60,000-a-week plus extras — and a five-year contract.'
(Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Benrahma responds to transfer talk
When asked earlier in the summer about the transfer speculation involving top-flight sides, he told Metro (via the Mirror): "I was really flattered.
"But, at the same time, I am so focused about getting out of the Championship with Brentford that I do not pay too much attention. But it gives me confidence.
"It has always been a target of mine to play in the Premier League and I really wish to play in the Premier League with Brentford.
"It would be magnificent for Brentford because it would be the first time and we have really been working hard on it."
Brentford boss quizzed on Benrahma's future
After the win against Fulham on October 1, Thomas Frank was quizzed on Benrahma's future again.
"Am I confident he will stay? I'm confident that I would love him to stay, and I would love to have him," Frank said.
"But I don't know. Honestly. If the price is right we are open to selling, but if not we will be happy for him to stay.
"Either we are going to get a top price or we are going to keep one of the best players in the Championship. Has he added a few million to his price? 100 per cent!"


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Chiefs 'making efforts' to hunt man who abused RAF in viral video

Efforts are being made by the council to track down the man who appeared in a viral video harassing RAF servicemen handing out coronavirus tests , it has been revealed .
Last week a video emerged showing a man on Station Road , Handsworth , repeatedly harassing RAF servicemen who were going door-to-door asking residents if they wanted a free coronavirus test .
Around 100 military personnel have been drafted in to support Birmingham City Council ’ s efforts to curb the rising coronavirus rates .
The man can be heard saying : “ I think it is absolutely disgusting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to now ?
`` It ’ s absolutely disgraceful , knocking on peoples ’ doors to ask if they want to be tested .
`` There ’ s nothing wrong with people , if they did want to be tested , they could go to one of these centres if they want that .
“ This is intimidation you know that ?
Absolute tyranny.
” Several local councillors spoke out against the man after the video emerged , with cabinet member Paulette Hamilton saying she was 'saddened ' by the behaviour of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the local leaders of both Labour and the Conservatives condemned the incident , with council leader Ian Ward revealing that he had recorded a personal message to the armed forces thanking them for their assistance .
`` On the issue of the harassment of armed forces last week , I ’ ve been very very clear that the one individual who posted the video on social media is to be condemned for what he was doing , '' he said .
`` We are making efforts to find out who that individual is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armed forces thanking them for their efforts in the city of Birmingham with the drop and collect testing kits that we are doing .
`` And I also did a video that was shown to all of the armed forces that are helping us here in Birmingham to thank them , and to encourage them to continue to help us in Birmingham despite this one individual .
`` And that one individual of course is in no way representative of the city of Birmingham , where the overwhelming majority of people are grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been doing and are grateful that the armed forces have been here to help us . ''
Cllr Ward was responding to comments made by Conservative group leader Cllr Robert Alden ( Erdington ) , who suggested a joint-letter from all three party leaders thanking the armed forces for their assistance .
`` I hope you will join me in condemning those people who have been harassing the RAF volunteers , '' Cllr Alden said .
`` There ’ s been some videos circulating online , these people are helping the council at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drop and collect system , and it ’ s just totally unacceptable for anyone to be harassing them .
`` And I ’ d also like to praise those RAF men and women for how they handled it , and perhaps suggest that we all ought to write jointly as the three leaders of the political parties thanking them for the way their staff are handling themselves while out in our city.
``

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Efforts are being made by the council to track down the man who appeared in a viral video harassing RAF servicemen handing out coronavirus tests, it has been revealed.
Last week a video emerged showing a man on Station Road, Handsworth, repeatedly harassing RAF servicemen who were going door-to-door asking residents if they wanted a free coronavirus test.
Around 100 military personnel have been drafted in to support Birmingham City Council’s efforts to curb the rising coronavirus rates.
(Image: PA)
The man can be heard saying: “I think it is absolutely disgusting, is this what this country has come to now?
"It’s absolutely disgraceful, knocking on peoples’ doors to ask if they want to be tested.
"There’s nothing wrong with people, if they did want to be tested, they could go to one of these centres if they want that.
“This is intimidation you know that? Absolute tyranny.”
Several local councillors spoke out against the man after the video emerged, with cabinet member Paulette Hamilton saying she was 'saddened' by the behaviour of some in her ward.
And today the local leaders of both Labour and the Conservatives condemned the incident, with council leader Ian Ward revealing that he had recorded a personal message to the armed forces thanking them for their assistance.
"On the issue of the harassment of armed forces last week, I’ve been very very clear that the one individual who posted the video on social media is to be condemned for what he was doing," he said.
"We are making efforts to find out who that individual is, and we also wrote to the armed forces thanking them for their efforts in the city of Birmingham with the drop and collect testing kits that we are doing.
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"And I also did a video that was shown to all of the armed forces that are helping us here in Birmingham to thank them, and to encourage them to continue to help us in Birmingham despite this one individual.
"And that one individual of course is in no way representative of the city of Birmingham, where the overwhelming majority of people are grateful for the work that the council has been doing and are grateful that the armed forces have been here to help us."
Cllr Ward was responding to comments made by Conservative group leader Cllr Robert Alden (Erdington), who suggested a joint-letter from all three party leaders thanking the armed forces for their assistance.
"I hope you will join me in condemning those people who have been harassing the RAF volunteers," Cllr Alden said.
"There’s been some videos circulating online, these people are helping the council at the council’s request with the drop and collect system, and it’s just totally unacceptable for anyone to be harassing them.
"And I’d also like to praise those RAF men and women for how they handled it, and perhaps suggest that we all ought to write jointly as the three leaders of the political parties thanking them for the way their staff are handling themselves while out in our city. "


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Gallery: Scene of horror crash in Bromley Lane, Kingswinford

A man and two teenage girls were killed when a car hit a tree in Kingswinford on Tuesday , October @ @ @ @ @ were critically injured .

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

A man and two teenage girls were killed when a car hit a tree in Kingswinford on Tuesday, October 13.
Two other teenagers were critically injured.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Updates: Heavy traffic on M42 after crash near Redditch

There 's heavy traffic on the M42 this morning after a crash near Redditch .
The collision took place between @ @ @ @ @ this morning ( Wednesday , October 14 ) , causing a lane closure on both @ @ @ @ @ to build up in both directions , with Highways England saying the disruption could last @ @ @ @ @ due to a barrier being damaged .
A Highways England spokesperson said on Twitter : @ @ @ @ @ # M40Link and J3 # Wythall , lane 3 ( of 3 ) is blocked @ @ @ @ @ , # trafficofficers are on scene dealing . ''
They later updated : `` M42 @ @ @ @ @ and J3a # M40Link , Lane 3 ( of 3 ) is closed due to @ @ @ @ @ collision on the westbound carriageway . ''
We 'll bring you the latest on this @ @ @ @ @ updates you need below .

There's heavy traffic on the M42 this morning after a crash near Redditch.
The collision took place between J3 Wythall and J3a earlier this morning (Wednesday, October 14), causing a lane closure on both carriageways.
Congestion has begun to build up in both directions, with Highways England saying the disruption could last until around midday at least due to a barrier being damaged.
A Highways England spokesperson said on Twitter: "M42 westbound between J3a #M40Link and J3 #Wythall, lane 3 (of 3) is blocked due to a traffic collision, #trafficofficers are on scene dealing."
They later updated: "M42 Eastbound between J3 #Wythall and J3a #M40Link, Lane 3 (of 3) is closed due to barrier damage caused by the collision on the westbound carriageway."
We'll bring you the latest on this incident and all the traffic updates you need below.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Driver and two passengers were those killed in crash horror

A man and two teenage girls were killed when a car ploughed into a tree in Kingswinford .
Six ambulances were sent to the scene in Bromley Lane at 8.54pm on Tuesday , October 13 - with the first medics arriving within three minutes .
But nothing could be done to save the driver of the yellow Skoda Fabia - who was in his 20s - and the two young back seat passengers .
Two other teenagers were fighting for their lives at Birmingham 's Queen Elizabeth Hospital after suffering critical injuries .
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find a car had hit a tree , with five patients involved .
“ Sadly , it soon became clear nothing could be done to save the driver of the car , a man , and he was pronounced dead at the scene .
“ Despite best efforts of staff , two teenage girls who were back seat passengers in the vehicle were also confirmed deceased at the scene .
“ The front seat passenger , a teenage boy was treated for life-threatening injuries at the scene before being conveyed on blue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment .
“ The final back seat passenger , a teenage girl , was treated for potentially life-threatening injuries and was also conveyed on blue lights and sirens to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further treatment .
“ Our thoughts go out to the families of all those involved at this time.
” West Midlands Police said officers had seen the vehicle moments earlier , but did not speak with the occupants or pursue it .
Sgt Dean Caswell , who is leading the investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tragic time for the families of those involved , and we have specially trained officers who will be supporting them through the difficult time ahead .
`` The investigation is at a really early stage , and we 're trying to establish exactly what happened and why .
`` I 'd urge anyone who saw the Skoda driving in the area last night , or who may have captured anything on dash-cam footage , to get in touch with us as soon as possible . ''
Information can be passed on via Live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of October 13 .

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A man and two teenage girls were killed when a car ploughed into a tree in Kingswinford.
Six ambulances were sent to the scene in Bromley Lane at 8.54pm on Tuesday, October 13 - with the first medics arriving within three minutes.
But nothing could be done to save the driver of the yellow Skoda Fabia - who was in his 20s - and the two young back seat passengers.
Two other teenagers were fighting for their lives at Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital after suffering critical injuries.
(Image: Black Country Live)
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived at the scene to find a car had hit a tree, with five patients involved.
“Sadly, it soon became clear nothing could be done to save the driver of the car, a man, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Despite best efforts of staff, two teenage girls who were back seat passengers in the vehicle were also confirmed deceased at the scene.
“The front seat passenger, a teenage boy was treated for life-threatening injuries at the scene before being conveyed on blue lights and sirens to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment.
“The final back seat passenger, a teenage girl, was treated for potentially life-threatening injuries and was also conveyed on blue lights and sirens to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further treatment.
“Our thoughts go out to the families of all those involved at this time.”
West Midlands Police said officers had seen the vehicle moments earlier, but did not speak with the occupants or pursue it.
Sgt Dean Caswell, who is leading the investigation, said: "This is a tragic time for the families of those involved, and we have specially trained officers who will be supporting them through the difficult time ahead.
"The investigation is at a really early stage, and we're trying to establish exactly what happened and why.
"I'd urge anyone who saw the Skoda driving in the area last night, or who may have captured anything on dash-cam footage, to get in touch with us as soon as possible."
Information can be passed on via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk, quoting log 4469 of October 13.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Mason Mount sends message to Southgate over Jack Grealish rivalry

Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount believes there is no reason why he ca n't play alongside Jack Grealish for England .
The pair have emerged as rivals for a place in Gareth Southgate 's side because of the similar positions they occupy in the Three Lions system .
Grealish shone on his full debut in England 's 3-0 win against Wales on Thursday , setting up Dominic Calvert-Lewin 's goal in a match-of-the-match performance .
On Sunday it was Mount 's turn to grab the headlines , scoring the winner in the 2-1 Nations League victory against Belgium having replaced Grealish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
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If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
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You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Southgate was asked about his selection after the game and revealed his belief that Mount is 'under-appreciated ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are hoping to start against Denmark tonight and Mount insists there is scope for that to happen because of the special 'connection ' he has with the Villa playmaker .
`` I love watching him [ Grealish ] play as well , '' Mount told Sky Sports .
`` He 's brilliant to be around .
Obviously we all know what he can do , what a brilliant player he is .
`` I get on very well with Jack .
He 's a brilliant player and , yes , we always want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such a strong group with loads of top , top players .
You always want to play with the best and when you come away with England you 're doing that .
`` It means so much to come away and play with the likes of Jack and the top , top players in the group .
You 're learning all the time .
Sometimes when you come away you do n't really know what kind of moves they make on the ball .
`` You have to kind of learn about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You do n't get much time , but when you 're playing the games you kind of have that connection and I think me and Jack do definitely have that .
`` You always want to play with the best players , win a lot of games as a group .
We want to win things , we 're definitely on that path to keep working hard and to get better and better . ''

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Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount believes there is no reason why he can't play alongside Jack Grealish for England.
The pair have emerged as rivals for a place in Gareth Southgate's side because of the similar positions they occupy in the Three Lions system.
Grealish shone on his full debut in England's 3-0 win against Wales on Thursday, setting up Dominic Calvert-Lewin's goal in a match-of-the-match performance.
On Sunday it was Mount's turn to grab the headlines, scoring the winner in the 2-1 Nations League victory against Belgium having replaced Grealish in the starting XI.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Southgate was asked about his selection after the game and revealed his belief that Mount is 'under-appreciated' by the English public.
Both players are hoping to start against Denmark tonight and Mount insists there is scope for that to happen because of the special 'connection' he has with the Villa playmaker.
"I love watching him [Grealish] play as well," Mount told Sky Sports. "He's brilliant to be around. Obviously we all know what he can do, what a brilliant player he is.
"I get on very well with Jack. He's a brilliant player and, yes, we always want to play together.
"We have such a strong group with loads of top, top players. You always want to play with the best and when you come away with England you're doing that.
"It means so much to come away and play with the likes of Jack and the top, top players in the group. You're learning all the time. Sometimes when you come away you don't really know what kind of moves they make on the ball.
"You have to kind of learn about the players while you're away training. You don't get much time, but when you're playing the games you kind of have that connection and I think me and Jack do definitely have that.
"You always want to play with the best players, win a lot of games as a group. We want to win things, we're definitely on that path to keep working hard and to get better and better."


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Where to get the best PlayStation 4 deals on Black Friday 2020

The imminent arrival of the new next-generation consoles means there will be plenty of great deals on the soon-to-become old generation consoles .
The Playstation 4 is the fourth best-selling console of all time and originally retailed at £349.99 .
Now , seven years on from its release , the Playstation 4 typically retails at the £250 mark - but with Black Friday on the horizon and Sony 's shiny new model soon-to-be available , you can expect to find plenty of enticing bundle deals before this year is out .
Among the current Amazon Best Sellers is this impressive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular titles : Horizon Zero Dawn , Uncharted 4 and The Last Of Us ( Remastered ) .
Provided the games are of interest to you , the PS Hits bundle is worth of consideration given it 's price of £254.99 is only marginally more expensive than the price of the 500GB console alone .
Like most bundles , it comes with just one controller so if you want to play with friends or family , you 'll have to buy a separate controller .
With regards to when you can get your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or in some cases same-day delivery to their Prime customers .
You can take advantage of Prime 's benefits free of charge with use of a 30 day free trial .
Other tempting bundles of a similar price are available through GAME .
With all of their bundles , GAME also offer a 2 month NOW TV Entertainment Pass as standard .
A NOW TV Entertainment Pass to award-winning shows on channels like Sky One , Sky Comedy and Sky Atlantic .
NOW TV can be installed onto your console , along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Video .
One of the most tempting bundles currently available through is this that comes with Division 2 and one of the games of the year Ghost of Tsushima .
At £249.99 , Currys PC World 's console plus game bundle is one of the cheapest currently available on the internet at this moment .
They also have a choice of games you can include with your sub £250 bundle .
They are : Nioh 2 , Spider-Man or God of War .
Other bundles with additional games are also available and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now , Pay Later ' offer .
Currys PC World offer free delivery on all orders , unless you wish to choose a specific time-slot .
They also offer pick-up if your local Currys PC World store has your desired item in stock .
Very can match Currys PC World 's £249.99 offer with different games available .
They also have Nioh 2 , but also Days Gone , Last of Us Part II and Ghost of Tsushima .
Again like Currys , Very have a 'Shop Now , Pay Later ' which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off your first credit order .
The Playstation 4 section of the ShopTo website is split into two sections : one for the 500GB version of the console , the other for the 1TB version .
ShopTo may be slightly lesser-known to you than other retailers in this list , but is nevertheless a site where you can take advantage of some great bundle deals on consoles .
Among the 500GB console deals they have , like Very , a sub-£250 deal that includes the Ghosts of Tsushima .
They even offer it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the console , although this is sadly currently sold out .
Perhaps clearing stock in time for the release of the new PlayStation 5 , Argos only have two deals available on the PS4 at this moment in time .
Their £249.99 offer on the console alone is n't much value for money when compared to other deals on the market .
They do , however , have an interesting offer on the PSVR : Sony 's attempt to force their way into the virtual reality picture .
The £299.99 'Megapack ' includes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Please be advised though that this is for the VR kit alone and does not include a PlayStation 4 .

The imminent arrival of the new next-generation consoles means there will be plenty of great deals on the soon-to-become old generation consoles.
The Playstation 4 is the fourth best-selling console of all time and originally retailed at £349.99.
Now, seven years on from its release, the Playstation 4 typically retails at the £250 mark - but with Black Friday on the horizon and Sony's shiny new model soon-to-be available, you can expect to find plenty of enticing bundle deals before this year is out.
Amazon PS4 Deals
Among the current Amazon Best Sellers is this impressive PS Hits bundle that comes with three popular titles: Horizon Zero Dawn , Uncharted 4 and The Last Of Us (Remastered) .
Provided the games are of interest to you, the PS Hits bundle is worth of consideration given it's price of £254.99 is only marginally more expensive than the price of the 500GB console alone.
Like most bundles, it comes with just one controller so if you want to play with friends or family, you'll have to buy a separate controller.
With regards to when you can get your hands on it, Amazon offer next or in some cases same-day delivery to their Prime customers. You can take advantage of Prime's benefits free of charge with use of a 30 day free trial.
GAME PS4 Deals
Other tempting bundles of a similar price are available through GAME. With all of their bundles, GAME also offer a 2 month NOW TV Entertainment Pass as standard.
A NOW TV Entertainment Pass to award-winning shows on channels like Sky One, Sky Comedy and Sky Atlantic. NOW TV can be installed onto your console, along with other popular apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
One of the most tempting bundles currently available through is this that comes with Division 2 and one of the games of the year Ghost of Tsushima .
Currys PC World PS4 Deals
At £249.99, Currys PC World's console plus game bundle is one of the cheapest currently available on the internet at this moment. They also have a choice of games you can include with your sub £250 bundle. They are: Nioh 2 , Spider-Man or God of War .
Other bundles with additional games are also available and each of them are in their 'Buy Now, Pay Later' offer.
Currys PC World offer free delivery on all orders, unless you wish to choose a specific time-slot. They also offer pick-up if your local Currys PC World store has your desired item in stock.
Very PS4 Deals
Very can match Currys PC World's £249.99 offer with different games available. They also have Nioh 2 , but also Days Gone , Last of Us Part II and Ghost of Tsushima .
Again like Currys, Very have a 'Shop Now, Pay Later' which also includes a 30% off incentive off your first credit order.
ShopTo PS4 Deals
The Playstation 4 section of the ShopTo website is split into two sections: one for the 500GB version of the console, the other for the 1TB version.
ShopTo may be slightly lesser-known to you than other retailers in this list, but is nevertheless a site where you can take advantage of some great bundle deals on consoles.
Among the 500GB console deals they have, like Very, a sub-£250 deal that includes the Ghosts of Tsushima. They even offer it with a 'glacier white' version of the console, although this is sadly currently sold out.
Argos PS4 Deals
Perhaps clearing stock in time for the release of the new PlayStation 5, Argos only have two deals available on the PS4 at this moment in time.
Their £249.99 offer on the console alone isn't much value for money when compared to other deals on the market.
They do, however, have an interesting offer on the PSVR: Sony's attempt to force their way into the virtual reality picture.
The £299.99 'Megapack' includes games like Skyrim and Resident Evil. Please be advised though that this is for the VR kit alone and does not include a PlayStation 4.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--ADVERTORIAL: ‘Our snobby landlords couldn’t stop us adopting’ - lesbian mums reveal baby joy

Their beautiful little girl is the centre of their world .
Full of energy , with a cute tendency to be a bit of a diva , Ivy has brought happiness and fulfilment to her mums Evelyn and Ellen since she was six months old .
The dual heritage lesbian couple who live in Birmingham knew they wanted a family as soon as they got together - and decided adoption was the best way forward .
They were both honest with each other and themselves - Evelyn felt she would always favour a child she ’ d given birth to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And Ellen , who felt the same , added that they were also concerned that if one of them gave birth , the child wouldn ’ t share their mixed British-Jamaican heritages .
So they applied to Birmingham Children ’ s Trust Adoption Agency ( then part of Birmingham City Council ) .
Despite the Trust 's support throughout , other factors complicated their adoption journey .
Their names have been changed in this story to protect their privacy .
To find out more about adoption and to discuss your options please contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When they started their journey back in 2013 , Evelyn and Ellen were renting in Edgbaston and encountered prejudice from their landlords .
Ellen said : “ We quickly discovered that the community we lived in didn ’ t allow children !
“ We were told we couldn ’ t live there and plan to have a child , so adoption was out of the window .
We withdrew our application , but asked Birmingham Children 's Trust to keep us on file .
“ It was disappointing , but it focused our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build up our savings and buy a place of our own .
Of course , you can adopt if you rent your home.
” Evelyn added : “ Yeah , just not the home we were renting because the landlords were snobs !
” Things are different these days - but there are still many misconceptions surrounding adoption .
Earlier this year , a new report revealed that 43 % of adults in the West Midlands have considered adoption or would adopt in the future .
Yet 56 % of adults do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process .
Birmingham Children 's Trust is supporting the new # YouCanAdopt to help dispel these myths .
To find out more about adoption and to discuss your options please contact Birmingham Children 's Trust Adoption Agency here Once Evelyn and Ellen had settled into their new home , they re-started their adoption application with Birmingham Children ’ s Trust .
Evelyn said : “ It progressed quickly !
We went to the information event in June and started our first training session in July .
“ The first training session lasted for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It helped us decide that adoption was right for us , so we carried on to stage two of the adoption process . ''
It usually takes six months to be approved as an adopter .
The process is divided into two parts .
In the second part you are assigned a dedicated social worker to help you through your adoption journey .
The couple had different experiences throughout the adoption process .
You can find out more about the process here .
Ellen said : “ One of the best things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us was that our social worker , Julie , was the same person who had facilitated our initial training course .
“ The Trust try to make sure that you have the same social worker throughout your application process so that you get really comfortable around them .
We ’ re still in touch with Julie now .
She 's amazing.
” Although the adoption process is open and fair , it can be challenging .
Evelyn said : “ I found some of our conversations hard , there were things in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ But I didn ’ t feel judged .
You just need to be honest with your social worker and trust that they want you to succeed . ''
After completing stage two , Evelyn and Ellen met with the adoption panel who recommended them for adoption .
“ We were really well prepared to meet the panel , but it was still nerve wracking !
We were approved though and the very next day we were shown a profile of a little boy , '' said Ellen .
The couple knew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the right child and had to remain honest about who that child would be .
Evelyn said : “ He was a lovely little boy but we didn ’ t feel like we were the right family for him .
“ Our culture and heritage as a Jamaican-British couple is so important to us and we wanted to make sure that our child would share our mixed heritage as a couple .
“ As a diverse city , Birmingham needs adopters from all backgrounds .
In the end we were matched with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jamaican-British heritage .
When we saw her profile we thought it was too good to be true - but thankfully it wasn ’ t. ” Months later , Ivy came to live with Evelyn and Ellen .
Evelyn and Ellen are prepared for any challenges that may lay ahead - they have been told that Ivy may have foetal alcohol syndrome , as her birth mother drank alcohol while she was pregnant .
Evelyn said : “ We can ’ t imagine life without Ivy now , it ’ s weird to think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ She ’ s everything to us .
She ’ s bouncy , full of energy , she ’ s a bit of a diva sometimes !
“ We know that Ivy might have foetal alcohol syndrome and we are prepared to help her through any additional challenges it could cause for her .
“ For now though , everything is going well and we ’ ve never needed post adoption support , but we would always be open to it and we know that Birmingham Children ’ s Trust will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she ever needs them .
Their support is nationally recognised .
“ We celebrate the day she came home with us every year - so Ivy has a birthday and an adoption day to celebrate .
“ I wouldn ’ t change the experience we ’ ve had .
Birmingham Children ’ s Trust have been amazing from day one.
” *Please note - Evelyn , Ellen and Ivy 's names have been changed to protect their privacy To find out more about adoption and to discuss your options please contact Birmingham Children @ @ @ @ @

Their beautiful little girl is the centre of their world.
Full of energy, with a cute tendency to be a bit of a diva, Ivy has brought happiness and fulfilment to her mums Evelyn and Ellen since she was six months old.
The dual heritage lesbian couple who live in Birmingham knew they wanted a family as soon as they got together - and decided adoption was the best way forward.
They were both honest with each other and themselves - Evelyn felt she would always favour a child she’d given birth to over a child Ellen had carried.
And Ellen, who felt the same, added that they were also concerned that if one of them gave birth, the child wouldn’t share their mixed British-Jamaican heritages.
So they applied to Birmingham Children’s Trust Adoption Agency (then part of Birmingham City Council).
Despite the Trust's support throughout, other factors complicated their adoption journey. Their names have been changed in this story to protect their privacy.
To find out more about adoption and to discuss your options please contact Birmingham Children's Trust Adoption Agency here
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When they started their journey back in 2013, Evelyn and Ellen were renting in Edgbaston and encountered prejudice from their landlords.
Ellen said: “We quickly discovered that the community we lived in didn’t allow children!
“We were told we couldn’t live there and plan to have a child, so adoption was out of the window. We withdrew our application, but asked Birmingham Children's Trust to keep us on file.
“It was disappointing, but it focused our minds and we worked really hard to build up our savings and buy a place of our own. Of course, you can adopt if you rent your home.”
Evelyn added: “Yeah, just not the home we were renting because the landlords were snobs!”
Things are different these days - but there are still many misconceptions surrounding adoption.
Earlier this year, a new report revealed that 43% of adults in the West Midlands have considered adoption or would adopt in the future.
Yet 56% of adults do not feel they know much about the adoption process.
Birmingham Children's Trust is supporting the new #YouCanAdopt to help dispel these myths.
To find out more about adoption and to discuss your options please contact Birmingham Children's Trust Adoption Agency here
Once Evelyn and Ellen had settled into their new home, they re-started their adoption application with Birmingham Children’s Trust.
Evelyn said: “It progressed quickly! We went to the information event in June and started our first training session in July.
“The first training session lasted for four days and we felt supported throughout. It helped us decide that adoption was right for us, so we carried on to stage two of the adoption process."
It usually takes six months to be approved as an adopter. The process is divided into two parts. In the second part you are assigned a dedicated social worker to help you through your adoption journey.
The couple had different experiences throughout the adoption process.
You can find out more about the process here.
Ellen said: “One of the best things about stage two of the process for us was that our social worker, Julie, was the same person who had facilitated our initial training course.
“The Trust try to make sure that you have the same social worker throughout your application process so that you get really comfortable around them. We’re still in touch with Julie now. She's amazing.”
Although the adoption process is open and fair, it can be challenging.
Evelyn said: “I found some of our conversations hard, there were things in my childhood which were painful to talk about.
“But I didn’t feel judged. You just need to be honest with your social worker and trust that they want you to succeed."
After completing stage two, Evelyn and Ellen met with the adoption panel who recommended them for adoption.
“We were really well prepared to meet the panel, but it was still nerve wracking! We were approved though and the very next day we were shown a profile of a little boy," said Ellen.
The couple knew that they could give a loving home to the right child and had to remain honest about who that child would be.
Evelyn said: “He was a lovely little boy but we didn’t feel like we were the right family for him.
“Our culture and heritage as a Jamaican-British couple is so important to us and we wanted to make sure that our child would share our mixed heritage as a couple.
“As a diverse city, Birmingham needs adopters from all backgrounds. In the end we were matched with a six month old baby girl with Jamaican-British heritage. When we saw her profile we thought it was too good to be true - but thankfully it wasn’t.”
Months later, Ivy came to live with Evelyn and Ellen.
Evelyn and Ellen are prepared for any challenges that may lay ahead - they have been told that Ivy may have foetal alcohol syndrome, as her birth mother drank alcohol while she was pregnant.
Evelyn said: “We can’t imagine life without Ivy now, it’s weird to think that it was ever just us two.
“She’s everything to us. She’s bouncy, full of energy, she’s a bit of a diva sometimes!
“We know that Ivy might have foetal alcohol syndrome and we are prepared to help her through any additional challenges it could cause for her.
“For now though, everything is going well and we’ve never needed post adoption support, but we would always be open to it and we know that Birmingham Children’s Trust will be there for Ivy her whole life if she ever needs them. Their support is nationally recognised.
“We celebrate the day she came home with us every year - so Ivy has a birthday and an adoption day to celebrate.
“I wouldn’t change the experience we’ve had. Birmingham Children’s Trust have been amazing from day one.”
*Please note - Evelyn, Ellen and Ivy's names have been changed to protect their privacy
To find out more about adoption and to discuss your options please contact Birmingham Children's Trust Adoption Agency here


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Aston Villa fans rage at Gareth Southgate over latest Jack Grealish snub

Aston Villa fans are fuming at Gareth Southgate 's decision to snub Jack Grealish tonight .
Villa captain Grealish , man of the match on his full England debut against Wales almost a week ago , was benched for the next two matches including tonight 's UEFA Nations League defeat to Denmark at Wembley .
The Three Lions were condemned to defeat by a Christian Eriksen penalty scored four minutes after Harry Maguire was sent off for a second yellow card .
Grealish being benched again was a surprise , with Mason Mount starting in his place .
In our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Even more surprising was that he did n't even get on , with Jordan Henderson , Tyrone Mings , Jadon Sancho and Dominic Calvert-Lewin being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Marcus Rashford , who both played on the wings , were replaced by Sancho and Calvert-Lewin , the latter a striker .
It 's no surprise , then , that Villa fans are fuming tonight .
`` What a joke , '' one said , `` Southgate has lost all credibility . ''
Sign up to our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here '' Honestly what does jack have to do to get a competitive start ? ''
asked another .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my life , '' a third said .
A fourth supporter said : `` The way Southgate is handling Jack is very concerning , '' while another added : `` Disgusting that Grealish has been ignored again . ''

Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans.
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Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up.
And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here.
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to.
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birminghammail--2020-10-14--Three teens dead in 24 hours of tragedy on Black Country roads

It 's been a tragic 24 hours for the Black Country as two crashes have claimed the lives of three young teenagers .
The tragedy began on Monday night ( October 12 ) when a 16-year-old boy was fatally injured after his moped collided with a car in Princes End High Street in Tipton .
Named locally as Lewis , the youngster was pronounced dead at the scene at around 8pm .
Family and friends paid tribute to the much-loved `` ray of sunshine '' who was popular among his school friends .
A police investigation has been launched and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with enquiries .
Just 24 hours later , five people were travelling in a yellow Skoda Fabia when it crashed on Bromley Lane , Kingswinford at around 8.50pm , last night ( October 13 ) .
The family of the third victim who died , a 16-year-old girl , have chosen not to release her name .
Two others injured , a man aged 18 and a girl aged 16 , remain in hospital .
The man is in a critical condition and the girl in a stable condition .
PC Chris Ridge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` This is a devastating time for the families of those involved , and we have specially trained officers who are supporting them through this difficult time .
`` The loss of these young lives is shocking and deeply upsetting for all involved .
All families wish to have their privacy respected at this difficult time .
`` We ’ re still working through a number of lines of investigation as we try to understand what happened and why .
`` Anyone who saw the Skoda driving in the area last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything on dash-cam footage , is urged to get in touch with us as soon as possible . ''
If you have information please contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk , quoting log 4469 of October 13 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Paxton, Oprah Flash)

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It's been a tragic 24 hours for the Black Country as two crashes have claimed the lives of three young teenagers.
The tragedy began on Monday night (October 12) when a 16-year-old boy was fatally injured after his moped collided with a car in Princes End High Street in Tipton.
Named locally as Lewis, the youngster was pronounced dead at the scene at around 8pm.
Family and friends paid tribute to the much-loved "ray of sunshine" who was popular among his school friends.
A police investigation has been launched and the driver of the car is assisting with enquiries.
Just 24 hours later, five people were travelling in a yellow Skoda Fabia when it crashed on Bromley Lane, Kingswinford at around 8.50pm, last night (October 13).
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
Driver Joshua Parkes, 21, and passenger Lucy Tibbetts, 16, sadly died.
The family of the third victim who died, a 16-year-old girl, have chosen not to release her name.
Two others injured, a man aged 18 and a girl aged 16, remain in hospital. The man is in a critical condition and the girl in a stable condition.
(Image: Black Country Live)
PC Chris Ridge, from the collision investigation unit, said: "This is a devastating time for the families of those involved, and we have specially trained officers who are supporting them through this difficult time.
"The loss of these young lives is shocking and deeply upsetting for all involved. All families wish to have their privacy respected at this difficult time.
"We’re still working through a number of lines of investigation as we try to understand what happened and why.
"Anyone who saw the Skoda driving in the area last night, or who may have captured anything on dash-cam footage, is urged to get in touch with us as soon as possible."
If you have information please contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk, quoting log 4469 of October 13.


birminghammail--2020-10-14--Gareth Southgate responds to questions about Jack Grealish's England absence

Gareth Southgate has been responding to questions about Jack Grealish 's inclusion on the substitute 's bench for tonight 's UEFA Nations League clash with Denmark .
Grealish remains on the bench despite almost a week passing since his fine full debut for the Three Lions .
After impressing against Wales on Thursday in a friendly last week , he was benched for Sunday 's 2-1 defeat of Belgium at Wembley and finds himself behind Mason Mount for tonight 's game .
Mount is set to start on the wing , a position Grealish has excelled in for Aston Villa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kane .
Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips are the two holding midfielders with wing-backs Reece James and Ainsley Maitland-Niles offering a wide threat .
The most obvious position for Grealish appears to be in place of Mount , who scored the winner against Belgium .
Southgate was pressed by Sky Sports interviewer Patrick Davison about the lack of Grealish '' He would n't have played in the position of those two , '' Southgate said referring to Rice and Phillips .
`` Mason has n't really played that position ( on the wing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes , '' he added .
`` So what we need to do is make sure that , with the positions we take up , that we get our wing-backs higher up the pitch and be more of a threat from there .
`` That we get more runs in behind and we are better in the interchange of positions .
`` We did some of those on Sunday but , probably what is against a 4-3-3 tonight , we 're going to have to be a bit more cleverer in some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two appearances for England in total after making his debut against tonight 's opponents last month

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Gareth Southgate has been responding to questions about Jack Grealish's inclusion on the substitute's bench for tonight's UEFA Nations League clash with Denmark.
Grealish remains on the bench despite almost a week passing since his fine full debut for the Three Lions.
After impressing against Wales on Thursday in a friendly last week, he was benched for Sunday's 2-1 defeat of Belgium at Wembley and finds himself behind Mason Mount for tonight's game.
Mount is set to start on the wing, a position Grealish has excelled in for Aston Villa, with Marcus Rashford flanking striker Harry Kane.
Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips are the two holding midfielders with wing-backs Reece James and Ainsley Maitland-Niles offering a wide threat.
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The most obvious position for Grealish appears to be in place of Mount, who scored the winner against Belgium.
Southgate was pressed by Sky Sports interviewer Patrick Davison about the lack of Grealish
"He wouldn't have played in the position of those two," Southgate said referring to Rice and Phillips.
"Mason hasn't really played that position (on the wing) other than us for that 20 minutes," he added.
"So what we need to do is make sure that, with the positions we take up, that we get our wing-backs higher up the pitch and be more of a threat from there.
"That we get more runs in behind and we are better in the interchange of positions.
"We did some of those on Sunday but, probably what is against a 4-3-3 tonight, we're going to have to be a bit more cleverer in some of those movements."
Grealish has made two appearances for England in total after making his debut against tonight's opponents last month