birminghammail--2020-10-27--How Birmingham coronavirus rate compares to areas in tier 3 lockdown

As many as eight million people are living under tier 3 restrictions as part of the three tier coronavirus lockdown system .
In Birmingham , the rate of coronavirus cases per 100,000 people is 260 currently - some way off the tier 3 threshold .
But the rate continues to rise , and it is up from 213 this time last week , with 2433 new cases in the city .
Walsall has a rate nearing 300 , up from 189 cases per 100,000 people to 292 .
And South Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent have rates approaching 300 , too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ tier three infection rate list ?
The UK Government confirmed on Monday that Warrington will be relegated to Tier 3 on Tuesday .
Nottingham and the boroughs of Broxtowe , Gedling and Rushcliffe are set to join it on Thursday .
They join Greater Manchester , which was forced into top tier restrictions at midnight on Saturday despite the best efforts of Mayor Andy Burnham for extra support for the city .
Large areas of South Yorkshire including Barnsley , Doncaster , Rotherham and Sheffield were also placed into Tier 3 at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a £41 million funding package .
Liverpool City Region has been languishing in Tier 3 since October 14 , and was joined by Lancashire two days later .

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As many as eight million people are living under tier 3 restrictions as part of the three tier coronavirus lockdown system.
In Birmingham, the rate of coronavirus cases per 100,000 people is 260 currently - some way off the tier 3 threshold.
But the rate continues to rise, and it is up from 213 this time last week, with 2433 new cases in the city.
Walsall has a rate nearing 300, up from 189 cases per 100,000 people to 292.
And South Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent have rates approaching 300, too.
But how do the compare with the tier three infection rate list? The UK Government confirmed on Monday that Warrington will be relegated to Tier 3 on Tuesday.
Nottingham and the boroughs of Broxtowe, Gedling and Rushcliffe are set to join it on Thursday.
They join Greater Manchester, which was forced into top tier restrictions at midnight on Saturday despite the best efforts of Mayor Andy Burnham for extra support for the city.
Large areas of South Yorkshire including Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield were also placed into Tier 3 at the same time, after the region secured a £41 million funding package.
Liverpool City Region has been languishing in Tier 3 since October 14, and was joined by Lancashire two days later.
The Tier 3 infection rate list in full
Blackburn with Darwen 755.5 (1131), 515.0 (771)
Rossendale 653.3 (467), 472.8 (338)
Oldham 625.4 (1483), 415.0 (984)
Wigan 601.8 (1978), 443.6 (1458)
Knowsley 599.9 (905), 682.1 (1029)
Salford 579.1 (1499), 430.0 (1113)
Rochdale 578.2 (1286), 476.1 (1059)
Barnsley 551.7 (1362), 369.4 (912)
Bolton 529.6 (1523), 404.5 (1163)
Liverpool 520.2 (2591), 620.0 (3088)
Ribble Valley 512.4 (312), 349.8 (213)
Bury 510.0 (974), 400.0 (764)
Doncaster 497.0 (1550), 287.6 (897)
Hyndburn 494.8 (401), 339.3 (275)
Manchester 489.1 (2704), 432.3 (2390)
Pendle 488.5 (450), 459.2 (423)
Blackpool 481.9 (672), 365.0 (509)
Rotherham 481.1 (1277), 343.6 (912)
Preston 476.5 (682), 392.6 (562)
Burnley 471.2 (419), 543.2 (483)
Tameside 465.4 (1054), 351.9 (797)
Nottingham 464.4 (1546), 726.6 (2419)
Sheffield 463.9 (2713), 405.2 (2370)
St. Helens 456.8 (825), 429.2 (775)
West Lancashire 454.9 (520), 455.8 (521)
Sefton 438.8 (1213), 431.2 (1192)
South Ribble 428.7 (475), 324.9 (360)
Gedling 418.2 (493), 380.0 (448)
Trafford 417.9 (992), 324.4 (770)
Warrington 395.2 (830), 343.3 (721)
Chorley 386.6 (457), 264.8 (313)
Lancaster 382.8 (559), 360.9 (527)
Rushcliffe 380.9 (454), 365.0 (435)
Wyre 372.9 (418), 289.1 (324)
Stockport 371.8 (1091), 279.8 (821)
Broxtowe 363.9 (415), 314.8 (359)
Fylde 352.8 (285), 260.0 (210)
Halton 325.3 (421), 346.2 (448)
Wirral 302.8 (981), 279.3 (905)


birminghammail--2020-10-27--New coronavirus hotspots mapped in Worcestershire

New coronavirus hotspots have emerged across Worcestershire according to the latest data from Public Health England .
Coronavirus infection rates have continued to rise in all six districts of Worcestershire with cases more than doubling in Worcester .
In the seven days to October 22 , the number of cases rose in the Bromsgrove , Worcester , Redditch , Wychavon , Wyre Forest and Malvern Hills areas compared to the previous week .
Bromsgrove continues to be the area with the highest infection rate , with 179 cases in the week before October 22 which works out as a rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the area .
The figures , based on tests carried out in laboratories and in the wider community , also show that cases in Worcester more than doubled from 74 to 154 .
Public Health England 's ( PHE ) map of England reveals where exactly in these areas that coronavirus cases are rising and which neighbourhoods are being hit worst .
The most localised coronavirus case data PHE provides is in its MSOA ( Middle layer Super Output Areas ) maps , which can be searched by postcodes here .
In Bromsgrove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate higher than 200 include Marlbrook & Lickey End , Rubery West and Frankley .
Marlbrook & Lickey End in particular has the highest infection rate across the whole of the county at 284.9 per 100,000 people .
Worcester 's hotspots are Ronkswood & Nunnery Wood as well as Warndon East - both of which had a rolling rate higher than 200 .
All of Worcestershire 's hotspots can be found below : 1 .
Marlbrook & Lickey End – 284.9 per 100k ( 22 cases , up 7 in a week ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100k ( 17 cases , up 8 in a week )

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New coronavirus hotspots have emerged across Worcestershire according to the latest data from Public Health England.
Coronavirus infection rates have continued to rise in all six districts of Worcestershire with cases more than doubling in Worcester.
In the seven days to October 22, the number of cases rose in the Bromsgrove, Worcester, Redditch, Wychavon, Wyre Forest and Malvern Hills areas compared to the previous week.
Bromsgrove continues to be the area with the highest infection rate, with 179 cases in the week before October 22 which works out as a rate of 179.2 cases per 100,000 people in the area.
The figures, based on tests carried out in laboratories and in the wider community, also show that cases in Worcester more than doubled from 74 to 154.
Public Health England's (PHE) map of England reveals where exactly in these areas that coronavirus cases are rising and which neighbourhoods are being hit worst.
The most localised coronavirus case data PHE provides is in its MSOA (Middle layer Super Output Areas) maps, which can be searched by postcodes here.
In Bromsgrove, the neighbourhoods which recorded an infection rate higher than 200 include Marlbrook & Lickey End, Rubery West and Frankley.
Marlbrook & Lickey End in particular has the highest infection rate across the whole of the county at 284.9 per 100,000 people.
Worcester's hotspots are Ronkswood & Nunnery Wood as well as Warndon East - both of which had a rolling rate higher than 200.
All of Worcestershire's hotspots can be found below:
Bromsgrove Covid hotspot areas
1. Marlbrook & Lickey End – 284.9 per 100k (22 cases, up 7 in a week)
2. Rubery West – 260.6 per 100k (17 cases, up 8 in a week)
3. Frankley – 225.6 per 100k (20 cases, up 3)
4. Catshill - 212.2 per 100k (13 cases, up 6)
Redditch Covid hotspot areas
1. Winyates Green – 232.9 per 100k (13 cases, up 3)
2. Matchborough & Park Farm – 210.9 per 100k (15 cases, up 4)
Worcester Covid hotspot areas
1. Ronkswood & Nunnery Wood – 229.0 per 100k (15 cases, up 9)
2. Warndon East – 207.0 per 100k (13 cases, up 3)
Wyre Forest Covid hotspot areas
1. Stourport Lickhill & Burlish – 256.6 per 100k (18 cases, up 2)
Wychavon Covid hostpot areas
1. Droitwich Spa East – 200.3 per 100k (12 cases, up 5)


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Woolworths return 'hoax' fears after shoppers share nostalgic memories

Woolworths announced it was returning to UK high streets today - but now fears have emerged it was all a hoax .
A Twitter account set up under the name Woolworths UK shared the exciting development - leaving nostalgic shoppers excited .
But now , with a website not working and without a verified blue tick on social media , customers feel they have been let down .
`` I think the Woolworths thing is a hoax ... as if 2020 could n't get any crueller , '' one wrote .
@ UKWoolworths had teased the news yesterday , saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trending on the Twitter world , we have decided to push our 2021 announcement forward !
Some exciting news later today , see you then . ''
It then added : `` Here to save 2020 !
Woolworths is coming back to your high street , as a physical store !
A couple of legal things to get sorted , but we ’ re full steam ahead at Woolworths HQ . ''
When questioned as to why the website was not working , the Twitter account replied : `` We ’ re having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise in activity .
We ’ re working with our provider to fix this .
Very ’ s website is not affected as we are two desperate companies . ''
The tweet has not gone down well with Twitter users though , with one saying : `` So Woolworths coming back is a potential hoax ?
Course it is .
What else do I expect from 2020 . ''
`` I mean I assume everyone realises this Woolworth 's coming back thing is hoax right ? ''
another asked .
But another replied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might be a hoax ?
If we all wear I Believe badges like in Miracle on 34th Street it MIGHT ACTUALLY HAPPEN . ''
Founded in 1909 , its 807 stores closed between December 2008 and January 2009 , resulting in 27,000 job losses .
Our readers have a lot of love for Woolies ... .
Liz Evans said : `` I miss them all , to be fair , but it has to be Woolies !
!
Followed very closely by C & A . ''
Serena Johal posted : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blockbuster with the family .
I miss them days . ''
George Mulyihill voted : `` Woolies , C & A and BHS in this order . ''
Christine Doyle has fond memories of Woolworths , saying : `` Woollies !
My first job - loved it and miss the stores . ''
Mavis Drew 's vote also went to Woolies , saying : `` Woolworths would be my choice ... the store you could almost get everything . ''
Craig Phillips said : `` Woolies without a doubt .
If only for @ @ @ @ @ @

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Woolworths announced it was returning to UK high streets today - but now fears have emerged it was all a hoax.
A Twitter account set up under the name Woolworths UK shared the exciting development - leaving nostalgic shoppers excited.
But now, with a website not working and without a verified blue tick on social media, customers feel they have been let down.
"I think the Woolworths thing is a hoax... as if 2020 couldn't get any crueller," one wrote.
@UKWoolworths had teased the news yesterday, saying: "Since we’re kinda trending on the Twitter world, we have decided to push our 2021 announcement forward! Some exciting news later today, see you then."
It then added: "Here to save 2020! Woolworths is coming back to your high street, as a physical store! A couple of legal things to get sorted, but we’re full steam ahead at Woolworths HQ."
When questioned as to why the website was not working, the Twitter account replied: "We’re having some IT issues due to a huge rise in activity. We’re working with our provider to fix this. Very’s website is not affected as we are two desperate companies."
The tweet has not gone down well with Twitter users though, with one saying: "So Woolworths coming back is a potential hoax? Course it is. What else do I expect from 2020."
"Definitely a hoax," a second feared.
"I mean I assume everyone realises this Woolworth's coming back thing is hoax right?" another asked.
But another replied: "Y'know the Woolworths thing that might be a hoax? If we all wear I Believe badges like in Miracle on 34th Street it MIGHT ACTUALLY HAPPEN."
Founded in 1909, its 807 stores closed between December 2008 and January 2009, resulting in 27,000 job losses.
Our readers have a lot of love for Woolies....
Liz Evans said: "I miss them all, to be fair, but it has to be Woolies!! Followed very closely by C&A."
Serena Johal posted: "I miss Woolworths and going out getting a Blockbuster with the family. I miss them days."
George Mulyihill voted: "Woolies, C&A and BHS in this order."
Christine Doyle has fond memories of Woolworths, saying: "Woollies! My first job - loved it and miss the stores."
Mavis Drew's vote also went to Woolies, saying: "Woolworths would be my choice...the store you could almost get everything."
Craig Phillips said: "Woolies without a doubt. If only for the pick n mix!"


birminghammail--2020-10-27--The Wanted's Tom Parker becomes dad days after revealing inoperable tumour

The Wanted 's Tom Parker has become a father for the second time just weeks after revealing he has an inoperable brain tumour , bandmate Max George has revealed .
Parker and his wife Kelsey Hardwick also have a 15-month-old daughter .
George , who is taking part in Strictly Come Dancing , told ITV 's Lorraine : `` I spoke to him yesterday , he 's doing good , he 's doing great .
`` Kelsey gave birth to their second child last week .
He 's a fighter Tom , Tom will be alright .
`` If he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love you all . ''
Parker , 32 , announced earlier this month that he has begun radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the hope of prolonging his life .
Tom told OK !
Magazine : `` I ’ m still in complete shock , it ’ s so much to take in . ''
Kelsey , meanwhile , said : `` It has been a crazy six weeks .
We had an inkling that something was wrong in July , but we never could have imagined it was this . ''
Tom added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right , but I never expected it to be this .
You never think this will happen to you . ''
On Insta , he wrote : `` Hey guys , you know that we ’ ve both been quiet on social media for a few weeks and it ’ s time to tell you why .
There ’ s no easy way to say this but I ’ ve sadly been diagnosed with a Brain Tumour and I ’ m already undergoing treatment .
`` We decided , after a lot of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and trying to keep it a secret , we would do one interview where we could lay out all the details and let everyone know the facts in our own way .
`` We are all absolutely devastated but we are gon na fight this all the way . ''

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The Wanted's Tom Parker has become a father for the second time just weeks after revealing he has an inoperable brain tumour, bandmate Max George has revealed.
Parker and his wife Kelsey Hardwick also have a 15-month-old daughter.
George, who is taking part in Strictly Come Dancing, told ITV's Lorraine: "I spoke to him yesterday, he's doing good, he's doing great.
"Kelsey gave birth to their second child last week. He's a fighter Tom, Tom will be alright.
"If he's watching by the way, I love you all."
Parker, 32, announced earlier this month that he has begun radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the hope of prolonging his life.
Tom told OK! Magazine : "I’m still in complete shock, it’s so much to take in."
Kelsey, meanwhile, said: "It has been a crazy six weeks. We had an inkling that something was wrong in July, but we never could have imagined it was this."
Tom added: "I knew something wasn’t right, but I never expected it to be this. You never think this will happen to you."
On Insta, he wrote: "Hey guys, you know that we’ve both been quiet on social media for a few weeks and it’s time to tell you why. There’s no easy way to say this but I’ve sadly been diagnosed with a Brain Tumour and I’m already undergoing treatment.
"We decided, after a lot of thought, that rather than hiding away and trying to keep it a secret, we would do one interview where we could lay out all the details and let everyone know the facts in our own way.
"We are all absolutely devastated but we are gonna fight this all the way."


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Magaluf nightlife curfew eased by an hour - but tourists have already gone

Officials in Majorca have bowed to pressure from business owners and eased the strict 11pm curfew on bars and restaurants after just 24 hours .
The island , which includes holiday hotspot Magaluf , will now impose the restriction from midnight until 6am following the urgent call for a rethink - despite the national government announcing a state of emergency at the weekend .
The rules lasted a single night 24 hours before they were amended .
Changes will apply across the whole of the Balearic islands , including Menorca and Ibiza , but they have arrived too late for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of October .
The 11pm curfew on bars and restaurants is in operation across much of Spain , except in the Canary Islands where there are no restrictions on the hospitality industry following moves to relax travel rules to the popular resorts .
Balearic health minister Iago Negueruela defended the climbdown .
He said : `` The health situation of the islands is one of the best compared to other communities , within the complexity and difficulty of the times we are in . ''
Other areas are now expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backlash against the nationwide rules gets stronger .
Originally , the national state of emergency was imposed potentially until May as coronavirus cases surged across the country .
However , government officials gave local authorities leeway to either extend or reduce the curfew hours .
Restrictions will be reviewed every two weeks during the crisis .
Spain was locked down during an initial state of emergency that lasted from March 15 to June 21 , and the measures were among the strictest anywhere in Europe .

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Officials in Majorca have bowed to pressure from business owners and eased the strict 11pm curfew on bars and restaurants after just 24 hours.
The island, which includes holiday hotspot Magaluf, will now impose the restriction from midnight until 6am following the urgent call for a rethink - despite the national government announcing a state of emergency at the weekend.
The rules lasted a single night 24 hours before they were amended.
Changes will apply across the whole of the Balearic islands, including Menorca and Ibiza, but they have arrived too late for the struggling tourism season that winds down at the end of October.
The 11pm curfew on bars and restaurants is in operation across much of Spain, except in the Canary Islands where there are no restrictions on the hospitality industry following moves to relax travel rules to the popular resorts.
Balearic tourism minister Iago Negueruela defended the climbdown. He said: "The health situation of the islands is one of the best compared to other communities, within the complexity and difficulty of the times we are in."
Other areas are now expected to follow Majorca's lead as the backlash against the nationwide rules gets stronger.
Originally, the national state of emergency was imposed potentially until May as coronavirus cases surged across the country.
However, government officials gave local authorities leeway to either extend or reduce the curfew hours.
Restrictions will be reviewed every two weeks during the crisis.
Spain was locked down during an initial state of emergency that lasted from March 15 to June 21, and the measures were among the strictest anywhere in Europe.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Aston Villa given update on Kerr Smith transfer after trial period

Manchester United could scupper Aston Villa 's chances of landing highly-rated Scottish defender Kerr Smith , according to reports .
Smith , 15 , spent a period on trial at Villa recently having impressed scouts from a number of Premier League clubs .
Reports in Scotland at the time claimed the Dundee United youngster was set to put pen to paper on terms with Dean Smith 's side .
He returned north of the border and has now spent a week in training with United , according to the Courier .
Smith is able to sign his first professional contract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is also being chased by Everton following his spells on trial at Villa and United .
The centre-back was involved with Dundee United 's first team in the summer when the Scottish Premiership side faced Sheffield United in a pre-season friendly .
The club 's sporting director Tony Asghar told the Courier : `` Kerr and his parents are down to earth .
They ’ ve spoken to us and he ’ d like to stay with Dundee United but we can ’ t stop clubs wanting to take a look at him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of the biggest clubs in the world .
Plenty of clubs have asked to have a look at him but we can ’ t let him go to them all .
`` We ’ re delighted that he ’ s had this chance at Villa and now Manchester United .
He ’ s trained very well at both , I believe .
`` It ’ s great for him but we want the best players at our football club and Kerr has the potential to be one of them .
He ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He ’ s got a great attitude . ''
Villa chief executive Christian Purslow outlined earlier this year how he plans to revamp the academy .
`` Frankly , I ’ m going to be brutal , 22-year-olds playing in an under-23 team means your system is n't working , '' he told the Villa Supporters Trust 's AGM .
`` It means your system has failed because 22-year-old footballers at Aston Villa need to be in the first team .
`` The ultimate goal is to populate the under-23 team with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then I will know it ’ s working .
`` And that will take years , not months .
We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old , nine-year-old , 10-year-old , 11-year-old , 12-year-old , 14 , 16 , one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16 . ''

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Manchester United could scupper Aston Villa's chances of landing highly-rated Scottish defender Kerr Smith, according to reports.
Smith, 15, spent a period on trial at Villa recently having impressed scouts from a number of Premier League clubs.
Reports in Scotland at the time claimed the Dundee United youngster was set to put pen to paper on terms with Dean Smith's side.
He returned north of the border and has now spent a week in training with United, according to the Courier.
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Smith is able to sign his first professional contract when he turns 16 in December and is also being chased by Everton following his spells on trial at Villa and United.
The centre-back was involved with Dundee United's first team in the summer when the Scottish Premiership side faced Sheffield United in a pre-season friendly.
The club's sporting director Tony Asghar told the Courier: "Kerr and his parents are down to earth. They’ve spoken to us and he’d like to stay with Dundee United but we can’t stop clubs wanting to take a look at him.
"You’re talking about some of the biggest clubs in the world. Plenty of clubs have asked to have a look at him but we can’t let him go to them all.
"We’re delighted that he’s had this chance at Villa and now Manchester United. He’s trained very well at both, I believe.
"It’s great for him but we want the best players at our football club and Kerr has the potential to be one of them. He’s already shown that against Sheffield United. He’s got a great attitude."
Villa chief executive Christian Purslow outlined earlier this year how he plans to revamp the academy.
"Frankly, I’m going to be brutal, 22-year-olds playing in an under-23 team means your system isn't working," he told the Villa Supporters Trust's AGM.
"It means your system has failed because 22-year-old footballers at Aston Villa need to be in the first team.
"The ultimate goal is to populate the under-23 team with 11 outstanding 16, 17 and 18-year-olds, then I will know it’s working.
"And that will take years, not months. We need to be higher in recruiting the best eight-year-old, nine-year-old, 10-year-old, 11-year-old, 12-year-old, 14, 16, one a year that makes it and gets a professional contract at 16."


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Coronation Street recast another character as actress replaced

The character of Summer Spellman in Coronation Street has been recast by the long-running ITV1 soap .
Matilda Freeman previously played the part but after she left the soap earlier this year Summer will now be played by Harriet Bibby .
The character will return to TV screens next month when she comes back to Weatherfield after staying with her grandmother .
Bibby , who has previously starred in Doctors and Brassic , said : `` I am so thrilled to be joining the cast of Coronation Street .
`` My family have watched the show for years and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Matilda has wished me good luck , which was lovely .
`` I 'm looking forward to bringing Summer 's sass and sparkle to the screen . ''
Summer is the adopted daughter of Drew Spellman and , after his diagnosis with terminal cancer , she began splitting her time between her legal guardians - Billy Mayhew and Todd Grimshaw - and her grandmother .
Freeman said : `` I 'd like to say thank you to my second family - the cast , crew and viewers who have supported me during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She added : `` After three and a half lovely years I felt it was time for a change and I 'm excited to be starting that chapter with a new role . ''
Coronation Street currently airs five episodes a week , with a double bill on Monday night and on Friday evening .
Wednesday is the other day of the week for the Weatherfield based ITV1 soap to air .

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The character of Summer Spellman in Coronation Street has been recast by the long-running ITV1 soap.
Matilda Freeman previously played the part but after she left the soap earlier this year Summer will now be played by Harriet Bibby.
The character will return to TV screens next month when she comes back to Weatherfield after staying with her grandmother.
Bibby, who has previously starred in Doctors and Brassic, said: "I am so thrilled to be joining the cast of Coronation Street.
"My family have watched the show for years and I already feel part of the family.
"Matilda has wished me good luck, which was lovely.
"I'm looking forward to bringing Summer's sass and sparkle to the screen."
Summer is the adopted daughter of Drew Spellman and, after his diagnosis with terminal cancer, she began splitting her time between her legal guardians - Billy Mayhew and Todd Grimshaw - and her grandmother.
Freeman said: "I'd like to say thank you to my second family - the cast, crew and viewers who have supported me during my time on the cobbles."
(Image: ITV)
She added: "After three and a half lovely years I felt it was time for a change and I'm excited to be starting that chapter with a new role."
Coronation Street currently airs five episodes a week, with a double bill on Monday night and on Friday evening.
Wednesday is the other day of the week for the Weatherfield based ITV1 soap to air.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Tory MP says children want 'activities' over holidays - not free meals

A Tory MP has appeared to suggest `` activities '' are more important for children over the holidays than free meals .
Business Minister Nadhim Zahawi was speaking to Kay Burley on Sky News this morning , and said : `` The best way to deal with this is through local government and the welfare system .
`` Its not just about the food , in wards where families want to keep children safe , they also appreciate the food but more important than the food to them was the activities for their children . ''
The comment was slammed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticising the notion .
“ Let them eat games !
” one wrote , while a second said : `` What a disgraceful comment by Mr Zahawi !
!
! ''
`` Unbelievable the whole government needs to go back to school and truly learn about poverty and how to support people but they walk past homelessness everyday and are happy that there government created the rise of food banks as the new normal truly disgusting , '' a third wrote .
Warwickshire MP Mr Zahawi said the Government could `` learn from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a potential way of addressing concerns over how to feed vulnerable children .
He told Sky News : `` These are incredibly important pilots , and we will look at how we can learn from those and how we can build on this .
`` The best way to do it - as the Prime Minister quite rightly outlined - is through local government , 17 local authorities participated in that pilot , and of course through the actual welfare system , the Universal Credit system , delivering that additional help for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal is to establish holiday clubs across the country over the Christmas break in order to help feed hungry children , Business Minister Nadhim Zahawi said the Government is learning lessons from the pilot projects .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` Let 's come together and look at this and see what we 're doing currently ; the additional help for families on Universal Credit is making a difference as well .
`` But , ultimately , we want to make sure - as the Prime Minister said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Christmas and , by the way , a healthy meal . ''
He dismissed speculation about a rift between Education Secretary Gavin Williamson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak over £150 million to fund meals during the half-term break .
Mr Zahawi said that was `` speculating on stuff I do n't recognise '' , adding : `` There is absolutely lockstep between the Chancellor and the Education Secretary and the Prime Minister and this Government to make sure we target funding to those families that need it . ''
Afterwards , Business Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the North and Midlands .
He said Tory MPs who have written to Boris Johnson were `` champions for their area '' .
He told Sky News : `` They want to make sure that their Northern Powerhouse strategy that Jake Berry and others have worked so hard on - with myself , I 'm the local growth minister as well as being the business and industry minister - is delivered .
`` That is absolutely our focus , and you will see that coming through in our refresh of the industrial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the North and Midlands which will benefit from a £180 million share of the £3.6 billion towns fund as evidence of the Government 's commitment .

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A Tory MP has appeared to suggest "activities" are more important for children over the holidays than free meals.
Business Minister Nadhim Zahawi was speaking to Kay Burley on Sky News this morning, and said: "The best way to deal with this is through local government and the welfare system.
"Its not just about the food, in wards where families want to keep children safe, they also appreciate the food but more important than the food to them was the activities for their children."
The comment was slammed on social media, with Twitter users criticising the notion.
“Let them eat games!” one wrote, while a second said: "What a disgraceful comment by Mr Zahawi!!!"
"Unbelievable the whole government needs to go back to school and truly learn about poverty and how to support people but they walk past homelessness everyday and are happy that there government created the rise of food banks as the new normal truly disgusting," a third wrote.
Warwickshire MP Mr Zahawi said the Government could "learn from" the holiday activities and food programme as a potential way of addressing concerns over how to feed vulnerable children.
He told Sky News: "These are incredibly important pilots, and we will look at how we can learn from those and how we can build on this.
"The best way to do it - as the Prime Minister quite rightly outlined - is through local government, 17 local authorities participated in that pilot, and of course through the actual welfare system, the Universal Credit system, delivering that additional help for those families."
(Image: PA)
Asked whether the goal is to establish holiday clubs across the country over the Christmas break in order to help feed hungry children, Business Minister Nadhim Zahawi said the Government is learning lessons from the pilot projects.
He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "Let's come together and look at this and see what we're doing currently; the additional help for families on Universal Credit is making a difference as well.
"But, ultimately, we want to make sure - as the Prime Minister said - no child goes without a meal at Christmas and, by the way, a healthy meal."
He dismissed speculation about a rift between Education Secretary Gavin Williamson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak over £150 million to fund meals during the half-term break.
Mr Zahawi said that was "speculating on stuff I don't recognise", adding: "There is absolutely lockstep between the Chancellor and the Education Secretary and the Prime Minister and this Government to make sure we target funding to those families that need it."
Afterwards, Business Minister Nadhim Zahawi defended the Government's support for the North and Midlands.
He said Tory MPs who have written to Boris Johnson were "champions for their area".
He told Sky News: "They want to make sure that their Northern Powerhouse strategy that Jake Berry and others have worked so hard on - with myself, I'm the local growth minister as well as being the business and industry minister - is delivered.
"That is absolutely our focus, and you will see that coming through in our refresh of the industrial strategy."
Mr Zahawi highlighted areas across the North and Midlands which will benefit from a £180 million share of the £3.6 billion towns fund as evidence of the Government's commitment.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Primark fans in love with £30 coat that looks just like £1,700 item

Primark fans are rushing out to buy a £30 item that customers are saying is `` beautiful '' and `` fashion goals '' .
The popular retailer has been wowing its customers on Instagram for a while by previewing a number of items that are new or are coming up for sale soon .
And with the colder nights and days coming in , we might all be needing a new coat to replace last year 's and luckily , the retailer has previewed something fans are excited about .
The post was made on the retailer 's Instagram on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been really popular .
The post received more than 30,000 likes and hundreds of comments from people talking about how beautiful the coat was .
The £30 coat came alongside a £11 top that fans were also raving about but the coat was the stand out winner with people saying how it was `` goals '' .
One of the best things is the faux fur coat looks just like a £1,782 fur coat from Farfetch which means you 'll save ALOT of money .
One person said : `` Omg this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ colour !
I will be goals in this coat '' while another person wrote : `` Such a dreamy coat '' .
A third person added : `` Want want want '' and a fourth added : `` Omy that colour .
Super cosy love love it '' .
Primark recently caused a craze when people started rushing out to buy a £30 drinks cabinet after it returned to the shelves .
Customers said that it looked identical to a £395 version from Oliver Bonas .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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Primark fans are rushing out to buy a £30 item that customers are saying is "beautiful" and "fashion goals".
The popular retailer has been wowing its customers on Instagram for a while by previewing a number of items that are new or are coming up for sale soon.
And with the colder nights and days coming in, we might all be needing a new coat to replace last year's and luckily, the retailer has previewed something fans are excited about.
The post was made on the retailer's Instagram on two days ago and it seems to have been really popular. The post received more than 30,000 likes and hundreds of comments from people talking about how beautiful the coat was.
The £30 coat came alongside a £11 top that fans were also raving about but the coat was the stand out winner with people saying how it was "goals".
One of the best things is the faux fur coat looks just like a £1,782 fur coat from Farfetch which means you'll save ALOT of money.
One person said: "Omg this is my next purchase. My fave colour! I will be goals in this coat" while another person wrote: "Such a dreamy coat".
A third person added: "Want want want" and a fourth added: "Omy that colour. Super cosy love love it".
Primark recently caused a craze when people started rushing out to buy a £30 drinks cabinet after it returned to the shelves. Customers said that it looked identical to a £395 version from Oliver Bonas.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Liverpool fans all make the same point about Coady transfer claim

Mark Lawrenson has urged Liverpool to pay 'big money ' to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Conor Coady as a replacement for Virgil van Dijk .
Van Dijk faces an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury in the 2-2 draw against Everton earlier this month .
Several players have been suggested as replacements for the Dutch centre-back and among them is 27-year-old Coady , who came through the youth ranks at Anfield .
Reds legend Lawrenson believes the England international could be just what Jurgen Klopp needs once the January transfer window opens .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season , '' Lawrenson told the Argus .
`` I think it ’ s a write-off because you ’ ve got to get match fit and that ’ s almost impossible nowadays because they don ’ t play reserve team football .
`` If Liverpool are going to pay big money for somebody in January , they want absolutely ready-made .
Conor Coady has had loads of shouts and he is a very good organiser who has played lots of games in the Premier League . ''
Lawrenson 's comments come after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live on Sky Sports recently .
Speaking to Coady after Wolves had beaten Leeds last week , a straight-faced Carragher said : `` Obviously you won ’ t be aware as you ’ re playing tonight but Jurgen Klopp has had his Champions League press conference and he ’ s mentioned you and two other players who could be a replacement for Virgil van Dijk .
Would that come into your thinking ?
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We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was of course joking but Coady wasn ’ t to know and laughed it off .
`` I can ’ t believe you ’ ve just put this on me here , ” he said .
“ Not at all , I love playing for this football club .
We ’ ve just beat Leeds in an amazing game - so no ! ''
But Liverpool fans on social media are n't convinced Coady - who recently signed a new five-year contract with Wolves - would be the smartest buy .
One said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jumping on the Carra bandwagon with this one .
While he has the ability to adapt to other styles of play , Coady is well-suited for Wolves and ingrained in that team as skipper . ''
`` No it 's not fair to unsettle him , '' said another .
`` Rodgers messed him about originally and our defence was poor that season , he got one app and then benched while we persisted on with Skrtel .
Also quite chaotic , ends up defending with back to play and pace wise might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ third wrote : `` He plays as a sweeper in a 3 , playing here in a 2 , with a high line and his lack of pace ?
Fine player but just wouldn ’ t suit us . ''
`` Coady is a really good player for Wolves but we do n't play the same system at all , '' posted another supporter .
While a fifth said : `` There ’ s no way we ’ re getting Coady it makes no sense he ’ s only mentioned because he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ His play style doesn ’ t fit us . ''

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Mark Lawrenson has urged Liverpool to pay 'big money' to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Conor Coady as a replacement for Virgil van Dijk.
Van Dijk faces an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury in the 2-2 draw against Everton earlier this month.
Several players have been suggested as replacements for the Dutch centre-back and among them is 27-year-old Coady, who came through the youth ranks at Anfield.
Reds legend Lawrenson believes the England international could be just what Jurgen Klopp needs once the January transfer window opens.
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"I would think Virgil will be out for the season," Lawrenson told the Argus. "I think it’s a write-off because you’ve got to get match fit and that’s almost impossible nowadays because they don’t play reserve team football.
"If Liverpool are going to pay big money for somebody in January, they want absolutely ready-made. Conor Coady has had loads of shouts and he is a very good organiser who has played lots of games in the Premier League."
Lawrenson's comments come after a post-match wind up from Jamie Carragher live on Sky Sports recently.
Speaking to Coady after Wolves had beaten Leeds last week, a straight-faced Carragher said: "Obviously you won’t be aware as you’re playing tonight but Jurgen Klopp has had his Champions League press conference and he’s mentioned you and two other players who could be a replacement for Virgil van Dijk. Would that come into your thinking?”
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Carragher was of course joking but Coady wasn’t to know and laughed it off.
"I can’t believe you’ve just put this on me here,” he said. “Not at all, I love playing for this football club. We’ve just beat Leeds in an amazing game - so no!"
But Liverpool fans on social media aren't convinced Coady - who recently signed a new five-year contract with Wolves - would be the smartest buy.
One said: "Sounds like Lawro’s jumping on the Carra bandwagon with this one. While he has the ability to adapt to other styles of play, Coady is well-suited for Wolves and ingrained in that team as skipper."
"No it's not fair to unsettle him," said another. "Rodgers messed him about originally and our defence was poor that season, he got one app and then benched while we persisted on with Skrtel. Also quite chaotic, ends up defending with back to play and pace wise might not fit high line."
A third wrote: "He plays as a sweeper in a 3, playing here in a 2, with a high line and his lack of pace? Fine player but just wouldn’t suit us."
"Coady is a really good player for Wolves but we don't play the same system at all," posted another supporter.
While a fifth said: "There’s no way we’re getting Coady it makes no sense he’s only mentioned because he’s a scouser from our academy. His play style doesn’t fit us."


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Government to announce more safe travel corridors after criteria changed

More safe travel corridors may be opened up by the UK government following the decision to ease restrictions on passengers heading to the Canary Islands .
Criteria which allows a nation to be considered for travel corridors has been amended by UK officials , bringing hope for more holiday options in the coming weeks .
The new guidelines , which now have a threshold of 100 cases per 100,000 population , will allow more destinations to become available .
Travel expert Paul Charles posted on social media said : “ There ’ s plenty of potential to open up more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quarantine period after re-entering the # UK and then a negative test result . ''
” At present , winter sun countries such as the Maldives , St Lucia , Seychelles and Barbados are currently on the travel corridor list .
However , Mr Charles suggested more options may soon be announced .
Canada , South Africa , Turkey and Jamaica could be next to be handed safe travel status ending the need for a 14-day quarantine for passengers returning to the UK .
Dubai is also expected to the added to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the United Arab Emirates being discussed at government level , which could see reciprocal quarantine-free travel arrangements .
Emirates – Dubai ’ s state-owned airline – has confirmed that pre-departure coronavirus testing is no longer compulsory for passengers from the UK .
Instead , Britons can take a PCR swab test on arrival .

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More safe travel corridors may be opened up by the UK government following the decision to ease restrictions on passengers heading to the Canary Islands.
Criteria which allows a nation to be considered for travel corridors has been amended by UK officials, bringing hope for more holiday options in the coming weeks.
The new guidelines, which now have a threshold of 100 cases per 100,000 population, will allow more destinations to become available.
Travel expert Paul Charles posted on social media said: “There’s plenty of potential to open up more travel corridors when combined with a shorter quarantine period after re-entering the #UK and then a negative test result."
”At present, winter sun countries such as the Maldives, St Lucia, Seychelles and Barbados are currently on the travel corridor list.
However, Mr Charles suggested more options may soon be announced.
Canada, South Africa, Turkey and Jamaica could be next to be handed safe travel status ending the need for a 14-day quarantine for passengers returning to the UK.
Dubai is also expected to the added to the safe travel list with flights between London and the United Arab Emirates being discussed at government level, which could see reciprocal quarantine-free travel arrangements.
Emirates – Dubai’s state-owned airline – has confirmed that pre-departure coronavirus testing is no longer compulsory for passengers from the UK.
Instead, Britons can take a PCR swab test on arrival.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Dudley Council to offer emergency vouchers amid free school meals row

Dudley Council has now launched a new crisis hotline to provide support for struggling families this half-term .
The scheme will supply emergency food vouchers for children across the borough .
Dudley Young Health Champion Project will be taking the calls between 9am to 1pm from today ( October 27 ) to October 30 .
You can contact the crisis hotline by calling 07903 374686 .
Councillor Patrick Harley , leader of Dudley Council said : `` No-one wants to see children go hungry this half term and we have been working behind the scenes to get this voucher scheme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delighted to say it is now live and I would urge any family in crisis to get in touch .
As well as offering food vouchers people calling the number can also be signposted to further support and advice '' I ’ d also like to say a massive thank you to all the businesses , faith groups and voluntary groups which have offered up meals to children this half term .
`` Throughout this crisis we have seen an incredible response from our close-knit community as we work together to support each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of questions to understand how best to signpost the family and , if appropriate a code will be emailed to you , together with guidance on how to redeem a food voucher .
This scheme is in addition to the huge and growing number of voluntary groups , faith groups and businesses which have rallied to provide grab bags or meals for children over the half term holiday .
For more details visit on the emergency food voucher scheme visit the council 's website .
Councillor Ruth Buttery , cabinet member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Over the crisis the council has been working closely with schools , the voluntary sector , faith groups and businesses , which have been doing tremendous work in the community '' I ’ m delighted our community has one again pulled together to support children this half-term . ''

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Dudley Council has now launched a new crisis hotline to provide support for struggling families this half-term.
The scheme will supply emergency food vouchers for children across the borough.
Dudley Young Health Champion Project will be taking the calls between 9am to 1pm from today (October 27)to October 30.
You can contact the crisis hotline by calling 07903 374686.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council said: "No-one wants to see children go hungry this half term and we have been working behind the scenes to get this voucher scheme up and running
"I’m delighted to say it is now live and I would urge any family in crisis to get in touch. As well as offering food vouchers people calling the number can also be signposted to further support and advice
"I’d also like to say a massive thank you to all the businesses, faith groups and voluntary groups which have offered up meals to children this half term.
"Throughout this crisis we have seen an incredible response from our close-knit community as we work together to support each other."
You will be asked a number of questions to understand how best to signpost the family and, if appropriate a code will be emailed to you, together with guidance on how to redeem a food voucher.
This scheme is in addition to the huge and growing number of voluntary groups, faith groups and businesses which have rallied to provide grab bags or meals for children over the half term holiday.
For more details visit on the emergency food voucher scheme visit the council's website.
Councillor Ruth Buttery, cabinet member for children and young people, added: "Over the crisis the council has been working closely with schools, the voluntary sector, faith groups and businesses, which have been doing tremendous work in the community
"I’m delighted our community has one again pulled together to support children this half-term."


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Serious stabbing, burnt-out cars and armed police as trouble flares in city

A man suffered multiple serious stab injuries after trouble flared on a residential street in Sparkhill .
Armed police , paramedics and the fire service were all called to the incident on Knowle Road , shortly after 11pm on Monday - October 26 .
The man was discovered in the road after being knifed multiple times .
Near to the scene , at least three cars were set alight .
It is unclear if the two incidents were linked .
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were called to the scene , with paramedics and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesman told BirminghamLive : `` We were called at 11.07pm to reports of a stabbing on Knowle Road .
`` One ambulance , two paramedic officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical care car attended .
On arrival we discovered one patient , a man , with multiple serious stab injuries .
`` He was taken to hospital for further treatment .
A car was also found set alight at the scene . ''
Today , a small police cordon remained in place restricting access to the burnt-out remains of three cars near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who lives nearby said : `` I was sleeping and I heard a big bang .
`` It was a crash .
There was a fire and we called 999 and they said they were already on their way .
As soon as I came outside there was armed police , lots of police , an ambulance and two fire engines .
`` They we ’ re treating a man down the road .
They closed everything and asked me to go . ''
Another local resident said : `` There were at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a really serious and worrying incident . ''
Video captured at the scene last night show flames pouring from cars , with fire crews battling the blaze .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Charlotte Paxton,  birminghammail.co.uk)

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A man suffered multiple serious stab injuries after trouble flared on a residential street in Sparkhill.
Armed police, paramedics and the fire service were all called to the incident on Knowle Road, shortly after 11pm on Monday - October 26.
The man was discovered in the road after being knifed multiple times.
Near to the scene, at least three cars were set alight.
It is unclear if the two incidents were linked.
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were called to the scene, with paramedics and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical care car all attending.
A WMAS spokesman told BirminghamLive: "We were called at 11.07pm to reports of a stabbing on Knowle Road.
"One ambulance, two paramedic officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical care car attended. On arrival we discovered one patient, a man, with multiple serious stab injuries.
"He was taken to hospital for further treatment. A car was also found set alight at the scene."
Today, a small police cordon remained in place restricting access to the burnt-out remains of three cars near the Mughal Azam restaurant.
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One eyewitnesses who lives nearby said: "I was sleeping and I heard a big bang.
"It was a crash. There was a fire and we called 999 and they said they were already on their way. As soon as I came outside there was armed police, lots of police, an ambulance and two fire engines.
"They we’re treating a man down the road. They closed everything and asked me to go."
Another local resident said: "There were at least ten police cars. It was a really serious and worrying incident."
Video captured at the scene last night show flames pouring from cars, with fire crews battling the blaze.
BirminghamLive is awaiting a statement from West Midlands Police.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Coronavirus outbreak at West Midlands ambulance call centre

A coronavirus outbreak at an ambulance service call centre saw 44 staff members infected with the virus .
`` Evidence of cross-infection '' was detected at the regional NHS 111 base , near Dudley , last month , West Midlands Ambulance Service bosses have said .
In a report for the governing trust , nursing and commissioning executive director Mark Docherty and executive medical director Alison Walker write the outbreak was formally declared over on October 13 .
They add the trust ’ s response has been declared a success , and WMAS has been asked to share its experience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 , WMAS took over provision of the non-emergency 111 service for Birmingham , the Black Country , Coventry , Herefordshire , Shropshire , Telford and Wrekin , Warwickshire and Worcestershire .
Its 111 control room , at Navigation Point , in Brierley Hill , handles nearly 3,700 calls a day .
A separate healthcare company , Vocare Ltd , provides the service in Staffordshire .
Mr Docherty and Dr Walker write : “ A total of 44 people working in the 111 service in Navigation Point tested positive for the Covid-19 virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as there was evidence of cross-infection.
” Incident management meetings , chaired by Mr Docherty , involved NHS England , Public Health England , among other bodies .
“ The WMAS response to the outbreak has been held up as an exemplar model and we have been asked to write up and publish information on how we managed this , ” the report authors write .
“ The outbreak was formally declared over 28 days after the first reported case .
“ The Incident Management Team met on October 13 , 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Docherty ’ s and Dr Walker ’ s Quality Report is due to be discussed by the West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust board of directors when it meets remotely on Wednesday , October 28 .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Alex Moore, Local Democracy Reporter)

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A coronavirus outbreak at an ambulance service call centre saw 44 staff members infected with the virus.
"Evidence of cross-infection" was detected at the regional NHS 111 base, near Dudley, last month, West Midlands Ambulance Service bosses have said.
In a report for the governing trust, nursing and commissioning executive director Mark Docherty and executive medical director Alison Walker write the outbreak was formally declared over on October 13.
They add the trust’s response has been declared a success, and WMAS has been asked to share its experience with other service providers.
In November 2019, WMAS took over provision of the non-emergency 111 service for Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, Warwickshire and Worcestershire.
Its 111 control room, at Navigation Point, in Brierley Hill, handles nearly 3,700 calls a day. A separate healthcare company, Vocare Ltd, provides the service in Staffordshire.
Mr Docherty and Dr Walker write: “A total of 44 people working in the 111 service in Navigation Point tested positive for the Covid-19 virus.
“WMAS declared this an outbreak as there was evidence of cross-infection.”
Incident management meetings, chaired by Mr Docherty, involved NHS England, Public Health England, among other bodies.
“The WMAS response to the outbreak has been held up as an exemplar model and we have been asked to write up and publish information on how we managed this,” the report authors write.
“The outbreak was formally declared over 28 days after the first reported case.
“The Incident Management Team met on October 13, 2020, to formally close the outbreak incident.”
Mr Docherty’s and Dr Walker’s Quality Report is due to be discussed by the West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust board of directors when it meets remotely on Wednesday, October 28.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Neville sends angry demand to Premier League after Villa figures shared

Former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville has slammed the Premier League ’ s pay-per-view structure and demanded it is scrapped .
A £14.95 price per match was introduced for games not originally selected for broadcasting in the UK , continuing to allow fans to watch every top-flight match that they have been locked out for .
Aston Villa 's last two matches - the win away at Leicester City and the defeat at home against Leeds United - were screened as part of the 'Box Office ' service while Sunday 's clash at home to Southampton will also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky Sports .
It was revealed this week that the pay-per-view matches have unsurprisingly attracted much lower audiences than usual on Sky .
The first weekend of matches on Sky Box Office last weekend saw low audience numbers , with Newcastle United against Manchester United attracting 40,000 viewers .
Half of that amount are estimated to have watched Villa 's trip to Leicester , meaning around £300,000 was made off the back of the £14.95 Box Office charge .
By contrast United ’ s game against Chelsea on Saturday evening , which was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ averaged an audience of 1.7 million viewers .
The high pay-pay-view pricing was immediately criticised by supporters , many of whom boycotted the structure and instead donated to local food banks - raising thousands of pounds in the process .
Premier League clubs are due to convene on Thursday to discuss changes , with the expectation being that the service will be scrapped .
Now an angry Neville has had his say on the situation and explained how an independent regulator , something he is among those pushing for , is a smart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an independent regulator does , appointed by the government , is just look at balance and fairness .
So that self-interest through the Premier League , or whether it be other factions of football , are just able to be brought back to a simple ‘ no that does n't work ’ .
“ £14.95 , that does n't work , so Mr Regulator says ‘ no you 're not doing that , it does n't work for the fan , it 's not fair at this moment of time we 're gon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one example .
“ It just needs scrapping .
It 's gone .
It 's finished .
No one is paying , no one is watching , it 's done , it 's finished , get rid of it .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Josh Challies, Shane Ireland)

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Former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville has slammed the Premier League’s pay-per-view structure and demanded it is scrapped.
A £14.95 price per match was introduced for games not originally selected for broadcasting in the UK, continuing to allow fans to watch every top-flight match that they have been locked out for.
Aston Villa's last two matches - the win away at Leicester City and the defeat at home against Leeds United - were screened as part of the 'Box Office' service while Sunday's clash at home to Southampton will also be available for an extra fee on Sky Sports.
It was revealed this week that the pay-per-view matches have unsurprisingly attracted much lower audiences than usual on Sky.
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The first weekend of matches on Sky Box Office last weekend saw low audience numbers, with Newcastle United against Manchester United attracting 40,000 viewers.
Half of that amount are estimated to have watched Villa's trip to Leicester, meaning around £300,000 was made off the back of the £14.95 Box Office charge.
By contrast United’s game against Chelsea on Saturday evening, which was on Sky Sports’ subscriber channels, averaged an audience of 1.7 million viewers.
The high pay-pay-view pricing was immediately criticised by supporters, many of whom boycotted the structure and instead donated to local food banks - raising thousands of pounds in the process.
Premier League clubs are due to convene on Tuesday to discuss changes, with the expectation being that the service will be scrapped.
Now an angry Neville has had his say on the situation and explained how an independent regulator, something he is among those pushing for, is a smart idea.
He said: “What an independent regulator does, appointed by the government, is just look at balance and fairness. So that self-interest through the Premier League, or whether it be other factions of football, are just able to be brought back to a simple ‘no that doesn't work’.
“£14.95, that doesn't work, so Mr Regulator says ‘no you're not doing that, it doesn't work for the fan, it's not fair at this moment of time we're gonna stop it’. That's one example.
“It just needs scrapping. It's gone. It's finished. No one is paying, no one is watching, it's done, it's finished, get rid of it.”


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Morrisons shares trick for customers to get £10 food for just £3.09

Morrisons customers have made use of 100,000 meals and saved 100 tonnes of food from going to waste by using the ground-breaking app , Too Good to Go , over the last year .
Morrisons is the first supermarket to use the app , which is designed to prevent edible food being thrown away .
During the last 12 months , Morrisons customers have prevented 250 tonnes of CO2e being emitted , the equivalent of 49 flights around the world .
When food is wasted , we also waste all the energy and water it takes to grow , harvest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The service is available in the majority of Morrisons stores nationwide , where customers can download the app and select a local store to purchase a bag of unsold food worth at least £10 for just £3.09 .
The Too Good to Go service is available in the majority of Morrisons stores nationwide where customers can download the app , select a local store to purchase a bag of unsold food worth at least £10 and then pay through the app before making the collection of a ‘ Magic Bag ’ .
Steven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morrisons , said : “ We ’ re making good food affordable for everyone and working with the Too Good to Go app also reduces food waste .
Customers love it because they save money and the environment at same time.
” Paschalis Loucaides , UK Country Manager at Too Good To Go , said : “ Working with Morrisons has proven just how impactful collaboration is to reduce food waste .
`` By saving 100,000 meals in the last year alone , we have been able to ensure that food is eaten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our users have loved rescuing the Morrisons Magic Bags and I know , together , we can continue to make big strides in the fight against food waste in the months and years to come.
” Too Good To Go offers Magic Bags of food from retailers , restaurants and cafes .
All people need to do is download the free app and browse local stores with food available .
They select their local Morrisons store from which to purchase a Magic Bag of unsold food , pay through the app and collect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For more information , please visit www.morrisons.com or www.toogoodtogo.co.uk

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Morrisons customers have made use of 100,000 meals and saved 100 tonnes of food from going to waste by using the ground-breaking app, Too Good to Go, over the last year.
Morrisons is the first supermarket to use the app, which is designed to prevent edible food being thrown away.
During the last 12 months, Morrisons customers have prevented 250 tonnes of CO2e being emitted, the equivalent of 49 flights around the world.
When food is wasted, we also waste all the energy and water it takes to grow, harvest, transport, and package it.
The service is available in the majority of Morrisons stores nationwide, where customers can download the app and select a local store to purchase a bag of unsold food worth at least £10 for just £3.09.
The Too Good to Go service is available in the majority of Morrisons stores nationwide where customers can download the app, select a local store to purchase a bag of unsold food worth at least £10 and then pay through the app before making the collection of a ‘Magic Bag’.
Steven Butts, Head of Corporate Responsibility at Morrisons, said: “We’re making good food affordable for everyone and working with the Too Good to Go app also reduces food waste. Customers love it because they save money and the environment at same time.”
Paschalis Loucaides, UK Country Manager at Too Good To Go, said: “Working with Morrisons has proven just how impactful collaboration is to reduce food waste.
"By saving 100,000 meals in the last year alone, we have been able to ensure that food is eaten and enjoyed instead of wasted.
"Our users have loved rescuing the Morrisons Magic Bags and I know, together, we can continue to make big strides in the fight against food waste in the months and years to come.”
Too Good To Go offers Magic Bags of food from retailers, restaurants and cafes.
All people need to do is download the free app and browse local stores with food available.
They select their local Morrisons store from which to purchase a Magic Bag of unsold food, pay through the app and collect their food during the given collection window.
For more information, please visit www.morrisons.com or www.toogoodtogo.co.uk


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Costa Coffee launch Quality Street, After Eight, Terry's hot chocolate for Xmas

Costa Coffee has launched its spectacular limited-edition Christmas drinks range , featuring more festive surprises than ever before .
For the first time in the brand ’ s history , Costa Coffee is taking three iconic festive chocolate favourites and transforming them into the most luxurious drinks range .
From Tuesday 3 November 2020 , Costa Coffee fans will be able to enjoy their all-time favourite chocolatey treats reimagined as sumptuous hot drinks , taking centre stage at stores nationwide .
Customers who enjoy their drinks on the move will be able to get their hands on a special exclusive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Quality Street Purple One Latte , After Eight Hot Chocolate and Terry 's Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate are being launched by the chain .
This year , to save you from tears , Costa Coffee is bringing it back with something even more special : the Irish Velvet Frostino .
If a welcome chill is what you need , the Black Forest Chocolate Frostino is a mouth-watering combination of sweet cherry and velvety chocolate in a cool , creamy Frostino , perfectly finished with a light dairy swirl , shimmering red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Also back on the drinks menu this year is the Hot Spiced Apple , a flawless and fresh winter warmer perfect for warming you up on the colder nights , served with a slice of lemon for some added winter zest .
A Costa Coffee spokesperson , said : “ We are incredibly excited to bring together the festive icons that are Quality Street , After Eight and Terry ’ s Chocolate Orange for our limited-edition drinks range to truly capture the taste of Christmas in a cup .
“ This year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure we make Christmas feel that little bit more magical , every sip of the way , so we ’ re exceptionally pleased to offer returning and new Costa Coffee lovers these soon-to-be iconic additions , plus their classic favourites too .
Now to the tough decision of choosing which to try first !
” The limited-edition Christmas drinks range will be available in store and at Costa Express machines nationwide from Tuesday 3 November 2020 .

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Costa Coffee has launched its spectacular limited-edition Christmas drinks range, featuring more festive surprises than ever before.
For the first time in the brand’s history, Costa Coffee is taking three iconic festive chocolate favourites and transforming them into the most luxurious drinks range.
From Tuesday 3 November 2020, Costa Coffee fans will be able to enjoy their all-time favourite chocolatey treats reimagined as sumptuous hot drinks, taking centre stage at stores nationwide.
Customers who enjoy their drinks on the move will be able to get their hands on a special exclusive new addition at Costa Express machines too.
The Quality Street Purple One Latte, After Eight Hot Chocolate and Terry's Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate are being launched by the chain.
This year, to save you from tears, Costa Coffee is bringing it back with something even more special: the Irish Velvet Frostino.
If a welcome chill is what you need, the Black Forest Chocolate Frostino is a mouth-watering combination of sweet cherry and velvety chocolate in a cool, creamy Frostino, perfectly finished with a light dairy swirl, shimmering red chocolate curls and cherry sauce drizzle.
Also back on the drinks menu this year is the Hot Spiced Apple, a flawless and fresh winter warmer perfect for warming you up on the colder nights, served with a slice of lemon for some added winter zest.
A Costa Coffee spokesperson, said: “We are incredibly excited to bring together the festive icons that are Quality Street, After Eight and Terry’s Chocolate Orange for our limited-edition drinks range to truly capture the taste of Christmas in a cup.
“This year, more than ever, we wanted to ensure we make Christmas feel that little bit more magical, every sip of the way, so we’re exceptionally pleased to offer returning and new Costa Coffee lovers these soon-to-be iconic additions, plus their classic favourites too. Now to the tough decision of choosing which to try first!”
The limited-edition Christmas drinks range will be available in store and at Costa Express machines nationwide from Tuesday 3 November 2020.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--British holidaymakers urgently warned over healthcare changes abroad

Many holidaymakers are unaware they could be hit with eye-watering medical bills if they fall ill when they next travel overseas .
According to the latest research from Holiday Extras , which offers add-ons such as airport parking , hotels and travel insurance , more than one third of UK travellers are unaware that health protection arrangements with EU countries come to an end later this year .
UK travellers currently enjoy reciprocal healthcare deals with European health systems under the EHIC scheme but this will end on December 31 .
Lots of holidaymakers rely on EHIC instead of obtaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 per cent of travellers go to Europe with no insurance , while 11 per cent rely solely on EHIC cover if things go wrong .
Some 38 per cent of those polled didn ’ t know the EHIC scheme would no longer cover them after Christmas .
Howard Dove , insurance director at Holiday Extras , said : “ We always recommend you take a good , comprehensive travel insurance policy whenever you leave the UK , so to find that almost 25 per cent of travellers go without , and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EHIC scheme may not cover them after Brexit , is obviously a concern.
” Holiday Extras recently relaunched its Brexit Disruption travel insurance product , which offers enhanced protection for travellers in the event of a no-deal Brexit , and also offers Covid protection .

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Many holidaymakers are unaware they could be hit with eye-watering medical bills if they fall ill when they next travel overseas.
According to the latest research from Holiday Extras, which offers add-ons such as airport parking, hotels and travel insurance, more than one third of UK travellers are unaware that health protection arrangements with EU countries come to an end later this year.
UK travellers currently enjoy reciprocal healthcare deals with European health systems under the EHIC scheme but this will end on December 31.
Lots of holidaymakers rely on EHIC instead of obtaining travel insurance and Holiday Extras found that 13 per cent of travellers go to Europe with no insurance, while 11 per cent rely solely on EHIC cover if things go wrong.
Some 38 per cent of those polled didn’t know the EHIC scheme would no longer cover them after Christmas.
Howard Dove, insurance director at Holiday Extras, said: “We always recommend you take a good, comprehensive travel insurance policy whenever you leave the UK, so to find that almost 25 per cent of travellers go without, and that a third don’t know the EHIC scheme may not cover them after Brexit, is obviously a concern.”
Holiday Extras recently relaunched its Brexit Disruption travel insurance product, which offers enhanced protection for travellers in the event of a no-deal Brexit, and also offers Covid protection.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Sainsbury's issues urgent warning to customers over one of its products

Sainsbury 's has issued an urgent warning to customers over one of its products .
The supermarket giant - which is one of the so-called Big Four retail chains in the UK supermarket industry - has released a statement .
Sainsbury 's is issuing an urgent product recall , with a health and safety notice issued via the Food Standards Agency ( FSA ) website .
The FSA is carrying the public health notice , which instructs shoppers to return the affected items and receive a full refund in return .
Sainsbury ’ s is recalling frozen by Sainsbury ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found in some of the products in this batch .
The supermarket chain is vowing to give full refunds to anybody affected , with customers told to return items to their nearest point of purchase .
The Sainsbury ’ s Cooked Mussels ( frozen ) products come in pack sizes of 300g .
The batch code is 2653152 and the best before date on the affected items is 08 September of next year ( 2021 ) .
In a risk statement , the supermarket giant warns : `` The presence of salmonella in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused by salmonella usually include fever , diarrhoea and abdominal cramps . ''
Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product .
These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product .
Sainsbury 's operates stores across Birmingham and throughout the wider West Midlands region .
That means you have plenty of chance to return the affected item if you have bought one .

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Sainsbury's has issued an urgent warning to customers over one of its products.
The supermarket giant - which is one of the so-called Big Four retail chains in the UK supermarket industry - has released a statement.
Sainsbury's is issuing an urgent product recall, with a health and safety notice issued via the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website.
The FSA is carrying the public health notice, which instructs shoppers to return the affected items and receive a full refund in return.
Sainsbury’s is recalling frozen by Sainsbury’s Cooked Mussels because Salmonella has been found in some of the products in this batch.
The supermarket chain is vowing to give full refunds to anybody affected, with customers told to return items to their nearest point of purchase.
The Sainsbury’s Cooked Mussels (frozen) products come in pack sizes of 300g.
The batch code is 2653152 and the best before date on the affected items is 08 September of next year (2021).
In a risk statement, the supermarket giant warns: "The presence of salmonella in the product listed above.
"Symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps."
Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product.
These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.
Sainsbury's operates stores across Birmingham and throughout the wider West Midlands region.
That means you have plenty of chance to return the affected item if you have bought one.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Customers will no longer be sold mobiles ‘locked’ to specific networks

Mobile phone companies will be banned from supplying devices “ locked ” into specific networks , the communications regulator has @ @ @ @ @ such as BT/EE , Tesco Mobile and Vodafone will be told to follow rivals in @ @ @ @ @ customers to switch from one network to another while keeping their existing handset .
The @ @ @ @ @ from December 2021 .
Ofcom said it expects widespread compliance with the new rules , @ @ @ @ @ being slapped with heavy fines .
Selina Chadha , Ofcom ’ s connectivity director , @ @ @ @ @ that lots of people can be put off from switching because their handset is locked @ @ @ @ @ re banning mobile companies from selling locked phones , which will save people time , @ @ @ @ @ help them unlock better deals.
” Currently , firms such as BT/EE , Tesco Mobile @ @ @ @ @ which can not be used on other networks unless they are unlocked .
Users can @ @ @ @ @ it costs money to do so .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Ryan Hooper, PA, Brett Gibbons)

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Mobile phone companies will be banned from supplying devices “locked” into specific networks, the communications regulator has ruled.
Ofcom said networks such as BT/EE, Tesco Mobile and Vodafone will be told to follow rivals in only supplying phones which allow customers to switch from one network to another while keeping their existing handset.
The rules will come into effect from December 2021.
Ofcom said it expects widespread compliance with the new rules, and companies breaking them risk being slapped with heavy fines.
Selina Chadha, Ofcom’s connectivity director, said: “We know that lots of people can be put off from switching because their handset is locked.
“So we’re banning mobile companies from selling locked phones, which will save people time, money and effort – and help them unlock better deals.”
Currently, firms such as BT/EE, Tesco Mobile and Vodafone offer mobile phones which cannot be used on other networks unless they are unlocked.
Users can unlock their phones, although it costs money to do so.


birminghammail--2020-10-27--How to get a letter from Santa as Royal Mail opens scheme for 2020

Royal Mail has opened its Write to Santa service for 2020 letting you get a free letter from Father Christmas - and children are bound to love it .
We reckon children will adore getting a response from the man in the big red suit - this year of all years .
Royal Mail has confirmed it is utilising the handy service again in 2020 , despite a tough year due to coronavirus restrictions and measures .
While so much of the festive season remains up in the air , the Royal Mail has confirmed it will be sending back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So , while our Christmas seasons may be a touch different , with meetings and households mixing still up in the air for many , the Royal Mail has come to the rescue .
`` It 's nearly Christmas , and we know you want to make sure that your letter to Santa Claus gets to him , '' Royal Mail explains on its Letters to Santa site .
`` Please remember , as Santa says : get your letter posted by Friday 11 December . ''
To use the service , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ write a letter with their full name and address .
Drop the letter into an envelop with a stamp , and send to Santa 's 'address ' provided by Royal Mail .
You must write Santa 's address carefully on the envelope , put a stamp on the envelope and include your full name and address in your letter .
For an English reply , send your letter to the following address :

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Royal Mail has opened its Write to Santa service for 2020 letting you get a free letter from Father Christmas - and children are bound to love it.
We reckon children will adore getting a response from the man in the big red suit - this year of all years.
Royal Mail has confirmed it is utilising the handy service again in 2020, despite a tough year due to coronavirus restrictions and measures.
While so much of the festive season remains up in the air, the Royal Mail has confirmed it will be sending back replies to anybody Santa writes to.
So, while our Christmas seasons may be a touch different, with meetings and households mixing still up in the air for many, the Royal Mail has come to the rescue.
"It's nearly Christmas, and we know you want to make sure that your letter to Santa Claus gets to him," Royal Mail explains on its Letters to Santa site.
"Please remember, as Santa says: get your letter posted by Friday 11 December."
To use the service, you need to get your little one to write a letter with their full name and address.
Drop the letter into an envelop with a stamp, and send to Santa's 'address' provided by Royal Mail.
You must write Santa's address carefully on the envelope, put a stamp on the envelope and include your full name and address in your letter.
For an English reply, send your letter to the following address:
Santa/Father Christmas,
Santa's Grotto,
Reindeerland,
XM4 5HQ


birminghammail--2020-10-27--Tamworth's Covid cases up by nearly 50 per cent after tier two warning

Coronavirus cases in Tamworth have risen by nearly 50 per cent in the last week , new figures show .
Latest data at local authority ( lower tier ) level provided yesterday ( Monday ) showed that 48 people had tested positive in Tamworth and 164 the last 7 days , which is up by 51 ( 45.1 per cent ) .
One person has died within 28 days of having a positive test in Tamworth .
A total of 839 people have had the virus in the town so far including 19 last Friday and Saturday and as many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The rate per 100,000 people in Tamworth is 155.2 compared to 184.2 in Lichfield , 268 in Cannock and 202.5 in Stafford elsewhere in the county .
Staffordshire County Council say : `` Residents in Staffordshire are being warned that the county could soon be placed on the Government ’ s High Alert Level , unless it can curb the rising number of Covid-19 cases .
`` All borough and districts are now seeing their numbers rise fast , with Cannock and South Staffordshire running at above the national level per 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Cabinet Member for Health , Care and Wellbeing , said : `` Every effort is being made to remain at Medium Alert Level – and if the county does move to High Alert Level , the priority will be to get back down to Medium Alert as quickly as possible .
“ We are doing everything we can to protect the lives of the vulnerable and prevent the Government from imposing further restrictions on our county .
“ We have seen from other parts of the country how the situation can also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so we need to seize this opportunity to halt the rapid rise in cases .
“ The last thing anyone of us wants to do is see further restrictions , so we must take the opportunity to act now and follow the rules .
`` This is our best hope of bringing cases down , protecting the vulnerable and making sure the doors of our businesses remain open.
” The Government ’ s Medium alert level means residents must follow existing laws and national guidance .
Moving to High would mean it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ household , unless part of a support bubble , to meet inside socially .
Moving to Very High would see many businesses forced to close .
The law and national guidance for Medium Alert includes : Washing your hands regularly , covering your face where compulsory , keeping your distance , not meeting socially in groups of more than six , self-isolating and getting a test if you have symptoms and self-isolating for 10 days if you test positive and for 14 days if you have been in close contact with someone who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has seen a worrying increase in cases over the last week with the infection rate of 213 per 100,000 .
As of yesterday 27 people had tested positive and 153 in the last seven days , up by 77 ( 101.3 per cent ) .
David Wright , leader of the council , said : “ We are clearly now well into a second wave and thankfully we are yet to see the rise in cases in hospitals that we did earlier this year .
`` Residents of North Warwickshire have been fantastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , supporting local businesses and keeping infection rates to well below national averages .
`` However it seems that the large increases we ’ ve seen in urban areas over the last month are starting to work their way into more rural areas given our strong links with those areas , so we are asking people to be extra vigilant as they go about their business , reducing contact between individuals .
`` This is the most effective way to slow the rates of increase and it will give us the best chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more stringent restrictions on our daily life and the economy .
”

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Coronavirus cases in Tamworth have risen by nearly 50 per cent in the last week, new figures show.
Latest data at local authority (lower tier) level provided yesterday (Monday) showed that 48 people had tested positive in Tamworth and 164 the last 7 days, which is up by 51 (45.1 per cent). One person has died within 28 days of having a positive test in Tamworth.
A total of 839 people have had the virus in the town so far including 19 last Friday and Saturday and as many as 34 last Thursday, October 22.
The rate per 100,000 people in Tamworth is 155.2 compared to 184.2 in Lichfield, 268 in Cannock and 202.5 in Stafford elsewhere in the county.
Staffordshire County Council say: "Residents in Staffordshire are being warned that the county could soon be placed on the Government’s High Alert Level, unless it can curb the rising number of Covid-19 cases.
(Image: Richard T Harris)
"All borough and districts are now seeing their numbers rise fast, with Cannock and South Staffordshire running at above the national level per 100,000 of population."
Dr Johnny McMahon, Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said: "Every effort is being made to remain at Medium Alert Level – and if the county does move to High Alert Level, the priority will be to get back down to Medium Alert as quickly as possible.
“We are doing everything we can to protect the lives of the vulnerable and prevent the Government from imposing further restrictions on our county.
“We have seen from other parts of the country how the situation can also quickly escalate from High to Very High, so we need to seize this opportunity to halt the rapid rise in cases.
“The last thing anyone of us wants to do is see further restrictions, so we must take the opportunity to act now and follow the rules.
"This is our best hope of bringing cases down, protecting the vulnerable and making sure the doors of our businesses remain open.”
The Government’s Medium alert level means residents must follow existing laws and national guidance. Moving to High would mean it would be illegal for more than one household, unless part of a support bubble, to meet inside socially. Moving to Very High would see many businesses forced to close.
The law and national guidance for Medium Alert includes: Washing your hands regularly, covering your face where compulsory, keeping your distance, not meeting socially in groups of more than six, self-isolating and getting a test if you have symptoms and self-isolating for 10 days if you test positive and for 14 days if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.
Meanwhile North Warwickshire has seen a worrying increase in cases over the last week with the infection rate of 213 per 100,000.
As of yesterday 27 people had tested positive and 153 in the last seven days, up by 77 (101.3 per cent).
David Wright, leader of the council, said: “We are clearly now well into a second wave and thankfully we are yet to see the rise in cases in hospitals that we did earlier this year.
"Residents of North Warwickshire have been fantastic during this outbreak, helping each other, supporting local businesses and keeping infection rates to well below national averages.
"However it seems that the large increases we’ve seen in urban areas over the last month are starting to work their way into more rural areas given our strong links with those areas, so we are asking people to be extra vigilant as they go about their business, reducing contact between individuals.
"This is the most effective way to slow the rates of increase and it will give us the best chance of preventing an early return to the more stringent restrictions on our daily life and the economy.”