birminghammail--2020-12-06--B&M fans adore £25 'snug' bedding - and it's perfect for winter

B & M fans have caught their eyes on a new item from the discount retailer - and everyone is saying the same thing .
The shop has been a firm favourite with those who want to get the best deal on big brands without having to spend a ton of cash .
However , a recent addition to the store 's product has caught the eye of shoppers on Instagram .
The Arctic Sheared Faux Fur Duvet Set is currently available from £25 depending on the size you want to buy .
The sizes are available in double and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The post proved massively popular with fans who want it or who have already bought it and are praising how cosy it is .
One person said : `` I have this it ’ s gorgeous '' while a second said : `` I have this in grey .
it is soooo cozy '' .
A third person said : `` I 've got this and it 's super soft and super cosy at night .
Love it '' And a fourth chimed in and said : `` need this in black , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to have this '' .
You can order it online or find your nearest store right here .
B & M recently announced it opened its largest store in the UK with around 79,000 sq ft of space - and lots of people said they wanted to go .
The store has approximately 79,000 sq ft of space with plenty of goods for B & M fans to shop until they drop .
It has two floors worth of items which may take you a long time to browse .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the absolutely perfect place to visit for any B & M fan .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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B&M fans have caught their eyes on a new item from the discount retailer - and everyone is saying the same thing.
The shop has been a firm favourite with those who want to get the best deal on big brands without having to spend a ton of cash.
However, a recent addition to the store's product has caught the eye of shoppers on Instagram.
The Arctic Sheared Faux Fur Duvet Set is currently available from £25 depending on the size you want to buy. The sizes are available in double and king size so sorry single sleepers!
The post proved massively popular with fans who want it or who have already bought it and are praising how cosy it is.
One person said: "I have this it’s gorgeous" while a second said: "I have this in grey. it is soooo cozy".
A third person said: "I've got this and it's super soft and super cosy at night. Love it"
And a fourth chimed in and said: "need this in black, grey or dark blue. I'll have to have this".
You can order it online or find your nearest store right here.
B&M recently announced it opened its largest store in the UK with around 79,000 sq ft of space - and lots of people said they wanted to go.
The store has approximately 79,000 sq ft of space with plenty of goods for B&M fans to shop until they drop. It has two floors worth of items which may take you a long time to browse.
It was launched yesterday in Bournemouth and could be the absolutely perfect place to visit for any B&M fan.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Discuss who Aston Villa's Fans' Footballer of the Year 2020 should be

The nominees are in - and now it is your turn to have your say about who should be crowned the inaugural winner of Birmingham Live 's AVFC Fans ' Footballer of the Year .
Our man at Villa , Ashley Preece , has selected Trezeguet , Jack Grealish , Douglas Luiz and Tyrone Mings as the four stars who impressed him the most at Villa Park across 2020 .
But do you agree ?
If you have n't yet voted for your player , you can do so here .
Now we want to hear from you - the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for , and whether any other players were unlucky to miss out .
Taking part in the discussion is quite simple .
All you have to do is head into the comments section here and discuss the reasons for your own vote .
And that 's not all - you can also vote for Jack Grealish in the overall Fans ' Footballer of the Year 2020 prize - where he is the Villa representative going up against stars from Manchester United , Manchester City & Liverpool .
The winner of both awards will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In the meantime : get voting , get listening , and get discussing .

The nominees are in - and now it is your turn to have your say about who should be crowned the inaugural winner of Birmingham Live's AVFC Fans' Footballer of the Year.
Our man at Villa, Ashley Preece, has selected Trezeguet, Jack Grealish, Douglas Luiz and Tyrone Mings as the four stars who impressed him the most at Villa Park across 2020.
But do you agree?
If you haven't yet voted for your player, you can do so here.
Now we want to hear from you - the fans - about who you have voted for, and whether any other players were unlucky to miss out.
Taking part in the discussion is quite simple. All you have to do is head into the comments section here and discuss the reasons for your own vote.
And that's not all - you can also vote for Jack Grealish in the overall Fans' Footballer of the Year 2020 prize - where he is the Villa representative going up against stars from Manchester United, Manchester City & Liverpool.
The winner of both awards will be revealed on Monday, December 21.
In the meantime: get voting, get listening, and get discussing.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Maisie Smith and Bill Bailey dip in popularity as new Strictly favourite emerges

HRVY remains the joint Strictly Come Dancing favourite with Bill Bailey after topping the leaderboard with a near perfect score this weekend .
The singer scored 29 on Saturday - meaning HRVY and Bill Bailey are now joint favourites for Glitterball glory with Betfair at 5/4 each .
After almost landing his second perfect score of the series when getting 29 this weekend , singer HRVY ’ s odds have been cut to 5/4 ( from 11/8 ) leaving him level with Bailey .
Long-term odds-on favourite Bailey is no longer in pole position , as his odds lengthen from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in third place at 6/1 to win Strictly Come Dancing , ahead of Masie Smith at 10/1 - having been 11/2 this weekend .
The dip in popularity leaves for Maisie leaves her and Jamie Laing as the rank outsiders , with Jamie 33/1 .
Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said : “ The betting suggests Bill Bailey may have peaked too soon , as HRVY gains more ground following an almost-flawless routine and the pair are now joint 5/4 favourites .
`` With the pair now neck and neck , the momentum suggests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for this Saturday ’ s show in the shape of the singer .
“ Elsewhere , Ranvir Singh is next in the market at 6/1 , Masie Smith is 10/1 and finally Jamie Laing is the 33/1 outsider .
”

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HRVY remains the joint Strictly Come Dancing favourite with Bill Bailey after topping the leaderboard with a near perfect score this weekend.
The singer scored 29 on Saturday - meaning HRVY and Bill Bailey are now joint favourites for Glitterball glory with Betfair at 5/4 each.
After almost landing his second perfect score of the series when getting 29 this weekend, singer HRVY’s odds have been cut to 5/4 (from 11/8) leaving him level with Bailey.
Long-term odds-on favourite Bailey is no longer in pole position, as his odds lengthen from 10/11 to 5/4.
Ranvir Singh is in third place at 6/1 to win Strictly Come Dancing, ahead of Masie Smith at 10/1 - having been 11/2 this weekend.
The dip in popularity leaves for Maisie leaves her and Jamie Laing as the rank outsiders, with Jamie 33/1.
(Image: PA)
Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said: “The betting suggests Bill Bailey may have peaked too soon, as HRVY gains more ground following an almost-flawless routine and the pair are now joint 5/4 favourites.
"With the pair now neck and neck, the momentum suggests we could have a new Strictly favourite for this Saturday’s show in the shape of the singer.
“Elsewhere, Ranvir Singh is next in the market at 6/1, Masie Smith is 10/1 and finally Jamie Laing is the 33/1 outsider.”
Betfair - next Strictly Come Dancing winner
Bill Bailey: 5/4
HRVY: 5/4
Ranvir Singh: 6/1
Maisie Smith: 10/1
Jamie Laing: 33/1
Betfair - next Strictly Come Dancing winner
Jamie Laing 2/5
Maisie Smith 7/2
Ranvir Singh 5/1
HRVY 16/1
Bill Bailey 18/1


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Haribo to open huge store at new designer outlet

A shop entirely dedicated to Haribo is coming to Cannock 's new £160 million designer outlet .
There will be treats a-plenty for shoppers when the sweet retailer opens its first Midlands store early next year .
The confectionery giant is the latest brand heading to the highly anticipated McArthurGlen West Midlands Designer Outlet , joining the likes of Tommy Hilfiger , Reiss , Kurt Geiger , Guess , Calvin Klein and Ted Baker .
Creating eight new jobs , the shop will feature a pick ‘ n ’ mix zone and stock a selection of Haribo favourites from around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manager at Haribo , said : `` We are really excited and ca n't wait to bring Haribo to one of the UK 's newest and most vibrant retail developments .
With McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands already boasting an impressive line-up of brands , we know that this will be the perfect location for our latest outlet store .
`` Despite challenging times , we remain committed to growing Haribo 's retail footprint , bringing moments of childlike happiness to shoppers throughout the UK .
`` As would be expected , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focus remains on ensuring that our customers and colleagues are safe while shopping for their favourite sweet treats .
`` Shopping at Haribo really is a unique retail experience , and we are looking forward to bringing this to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands .
We ca n't wait to see people 's faces as they come to visit the happy world of Haribo . ''
Buy a gift for a homeless child and make a # BrumWish come true Thousands of children in Birmingham face a Christmas without a proper home this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can do .
Our campaign , Grant a Christmas # BrumWish , aims to help buy presents for more than 1,000 youngsters cramped together , sharing beds , in soulless rooms in B & Bs , and others who will be in a Women 's Aid refuge .
It is all through an Amazon Wish List - meaning you can personally buy a present that will be delivered before December 25 .
Make sure you set delivery to the # BrumWish Campaign , and we will ensure the presents get to the kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amazon , you can donate cash through the Winter Wellbeing VirginMoney page - just make sure to put the word BRUM in the comments so it comes through to # BrumWish .
Mike Thomas , centre manager for McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands , added : `` The opening of the centre early next year is extremely exciting ; we are thrilled to be welcoming Haribo to the Designer Outlet West Midlands family .
`` There 's been a huge buzz around the confectionery giant joining our centre and we pride ourselves on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our customers .
`` Haribo certainly fits the bill , with the nation 's favourite sweet , and we look forward to seeing the reaction from our shoppers - we are sure it will be a firm favourite with families of all ages . ''

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A shop entirely dedicated to Haribo is coming to Cannock's new £160 million designer outlet.
There will be treats a-plenty for shoppers when the sweet retailer opens its first Midlands store early next year.
The confectionery giant is the latest brand heading to the highly anticipated McArthurGlen West Midlands Designer Outlet, joining the likes of Tommy Hilfiger, Reiss, Kurt Geiger, Guess, Calvin Klein and Ted Baker.
Creating eight new jobs, the shop will feature a pick ‘n’ mix zone and stock a selection of Haribo favourites from around the world.
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Rebecca Fox, retail manager at Haribo, said: "We are really excited and can't wait to bring Haribo to one of the UK's newest and most vibrant retail developments. With McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands already boasting an impressive line-up of brands, we know that this will be the perfect location for our latest outlet store.
"Despite challenging times, we remain committed to growing Haribo's retail footprint, bringing moments of childlike happiness to shoppers throughout the UK.
"As would be expected, we have strict measures in place and our focus remains on ensuring that our customers and colleagues are safe while shopping for their favourite sweet treats.
"Shopping at Haribo really is a unique retail experience, and we are looking forward to bringing this to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands. We can't wait to see people's faces as they come to visit the happy world of Haribo."
Mike Thomas, centre manager for McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands, added: "The opening of the centre early next year is extremely exciting; we are thrilled to be welcoming Haribo to the Designer Outlet West Midlands family.
"There's been a huge buzz around the confectionery giant joining our centre and we pride ourselves on hosting world-renowned brands that are loved by our customers.
"Haribo certainly fits the bill, with the nation's favourite sweet, and we look forward to seeing the reaction from our shoppers - we are sure it will be a firm favourite with families of all ages."


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Birmingham Airport one of few airports not offering Covid tests

Birmingham could miss out on an expected festive overseas travel rush - because it is one of the few major UK airports not offering passengers pre-departure Covid-19 testing .
Manchester , East Midlands , Stansted , Newcastle , London Heathrow , London City and Gatwick have all introduced various forms of rapid testing for passengers , with some offering checks in partnership with a high street chemist chain .
Costs range from £40 upwards to more than £100 , depending on the location and form of test .
However , Birmingham has not introduced a scheme with many tour operators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas period .
There are no immediate plans to offer passengers a rapid pre-departure test facility on an on-arrival check at Birmingham - despite many tour operators planning to capitalise on the easing of travel quarantine restrictions in time for the pre-Christmas getaway .
However , the lack of action has angered some potential passengers claiming Birmingham was falling behind its competitors .
One irate passenger said : `` While other airports assist travellers with pre-travel Covid testing , Birmingham Airport trails the pack .
An enquiry of the airport 's information service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stage to introduce such a testing facility .
`` Other airports including East Midlands are doing so .
It is disappointing that the airport 's management has let our city down through its response to this essential requirement for those still needing to travel . ''
A spokesperson for Birmingham Airport said officials were still exploring the possibility of introducing Covid-19 pre-departure test options , adding that on-arrival checks would not be applicable at an airport .
The spokesperson responded : `` We are exploring options currently .
`` But it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test to release scheme that will come into effect on December 15 has to be carried out on day five after arriving into the country from a destination without a travel corridor .
`` Therefore , any testing at airports on arrival would not allow you to reduce the time in isolation as this can only be reduced by having a private test after day five and doesn ’ t need to be carried out at an airport . ''

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Birmingham could miss out on an expected festive overseas travel rush - because it is one of the few major UK airports not offering passengers pre-departure Covid-19 testing.
Manchester, East Midlands, Stansted, Newcastle, London Heathrow, London City and Gatwick have all introduced various forms of rapid testing for passengers, with some offering checks in partnership with a high street chemist chain.
Costs range from £40 upwards to more than £100, depending on the location and form of test.
However, Birmingham has not introduced a scheme with many tour operators reporting a surge in bookings during the Christmas period.
There are no immediate plans to offer passengers a rapid pre-departure test facility on an on-arrival check at Birmingham - despite many tour operators planning to capitalise on the easing of travel quarantine restrictions in time for the pre-Christmas getaway.
However, the lack of action has angered some potential passengers claiming Birmingham was falling behind its competitors.
One irate passenger said: "While other airports assist travellers with pre-travel Covid testing, Birmingham Airport trails the pack. An enquiry of the airport's information service stated there were no plans at this stage to introduce such a testing facility.
"Other airports including East Midlands are doing so. It is disappointing that the airport's management has let our city down through its response to this essential requirement for those still needing to travel."
A spokesperson for Birmingham Airport said officials were still exploring the possibility of introducing Covid-19 pre-departure test options, adding that on-arrival checks would not be applicable at an airport.
The spokesperson responded: "We are exploring options currently.
"But it’s important to note that the new government test to release scheme that will come into effect on December 15 has to be carried out on day five after arriving into the country from a destination without a travel corridor.
"Therefore, any testing at airports on arrival would not allow you to reduce the time in isolation as this can only be reduced by having a private test after day five and doesn’t need to be carried out at an airport."
Several tour operators offer passengers a discounted pre-departure test option provided by private health firms.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Four Aston Villa players nominated for new Premier League award

Nobody will forget the year 2020 - and now is your chance to remember the Aston Villa players who have performed best over the last 12 months .
This year marks the inaugural Fans ’ Footballer of the Year award , with fans selecting from four nominees ( selected by our very own Ashley Preece ) to crown their team ’ s best footballer .
You can define ‘ Footballer of the Year ’ however you want .
It might be your most important star .
It could be the player who has moved you from your seat the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simply can not wait to see when you can return to Villa Park .
Or maybe it is a man who goes above and beyond , not only on the pitch , but off it .
We asked Ash for his four nominees for Birmingham Live Aston Villa Fans ’ Footballer of the Year .
Here is what he said .
`` There 's a number of players that stand out for Villa in 2020 '' For one , Douglas Luiz has been outstanding for Villa since the turn of the year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Project Restart era , even trumping Jack Grealish - playing in almost every minute of that ten-game stretch .
£15 million for him is a bargain , and he 's still only 22 .
Such an important player that deserves a mention .
`` To some this may be obvious , to others controversial , but what about Tyrone Mings ?
His form has dipped below-par in some games but 2020 has been a brilliant year for Mings on-and-off the pitch .
On the pitch he is the glue that sticks everything together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locked out of the games recently , but in those games I can not speak highly enough of his influence on the pitch .
He rallies the troops and gets the maximum out of everyone .
Elsewhere he 's discussed mental health campaigns with Prince William and has tackled the issue of equality , attending a Black Lives Matter march in Birmingham .
He 's a role model who carries himself so well , and he just pips Ezri Konsa to get in here .
`` Next ?
The man himself .
Jack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 he has had !
He 's broke into the England setup and has dazzled on the international stage .
He 's a phenomenal player and it all began at the start of 2020 at Turf Moor against Burnley , then at Brighton - then he did n't score again until the most important goal of that season against West Ham on the final day to keep Villa up in true Jack fashion .
He 's a beacon of light , he 's the poster boy and he has started the new season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it 's a bit of a left-field shout - but what about the Egyptian king , Trezeguet ?
Everyone will remember the last minute winner against Leicester City to secure the Wembley final against Manchester City .
It was sheer pandemonium .
Then he scored three in four during Project Restart - those goals kept Villa up .
Those goals - and the cup one - were so important and some incredible doing , really .
He 's selfless as well , players at Bodymoor Heath will joke and say he sprints @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in .
Says everything about him , does n't it ?
`` Out of those four , there 's only one winner though .
Jack Grealish .
We ca n't deny what the others have done as it was a monumental effort to secure Premier League survival by a single point .
Grealish has carried on and excelled further , though - he 's an icon and everyone is buzzing about him .
The vote should reflect a deserving winner in Grealish , not just for the AVFC prize , but the top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the four nominees , it is your turn to pick the winner of this brand new award .
Navigate your browser to http : //www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk or simply fill in the form below , selecting Aston Villa , register your choice and wait to see who you have crowned Birmingham Live Aston Villa Fans ’ Footballer of the Year 2020 .
So whether it ’ s Grealish , Mings , Trezeguet or Luiz , be sure to have your say on who has impressed you the most in Dean Smith 's side since January @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the four deserves to win - or if another player should have been included - in our special chat room .
There is also an opportunity to listen to our writer discuss their choice , and sign up for all the latest updates about Aston Villa from Birmingham Live .
The winner for both the Birmingham Live Aston Villa Fans ’ Footballer of the Year and overall Fans ’ Footballer of the Year will be announced on December 21 .
Keep an eye on our social channels and on the Birmingham Live website @ @ @ @

Nobody will forget the year 2020 - and now is your chance to remember the Aston Villa players who have performed best over the last 12 months.
This year marks the inaugural Fans’ Footballer of the Year award, with fans selecting from four nominees (selected by our very own Ashley Preece) to crown their team’s best footballer.
You can define ‘Footballer of the Year’ however you want. It might be your most important star. It could be the player who has moved you from your seat the most. Perhaps it is the one you simply cannot wait to see when you can return to Villa Park. Or maybe it is a man who goes above and beyond, not only on the pitch, but off it.
We asked Ash for his four nominees for Birmingham Live Aston Villa Fans’ Footballer of the Year.
Here is what he said.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Nominees: Jack Grealish, Tyrone Mings, Douglas Luiz, Trezeguet
"There's a number of players that stand out for Villa in 2020
"For one, Douglas Luiz has been outstanding for Villa since the turn of the year. By far the best player during the Project Restart era, even trumping Jack Grealish - playing in almost every minute of that ten-game stretch. £15 million for him is a bargain, and he's still only 22. Such an important player that deserves a mention.
"To some this may be obvious, to others controversial, but what about Tyrone Mings? His form has dipped below-par in some games but 2020 has been a brilliant year for Mings on-and-off the pitch. On the pitch he is the glue that sticks everything together for the side. Fans have been locked out of the games recently, but in those games I cannot speak highly enough of his influence on the pitch. He rallies the troops and gets the maximum out of everyone. Elsewhere he's discussed mental health campaigns with Prince William and has tackled the issue of equality, attending a Black Lives Matter march in Birmingham. He's a role model who carries himself so well, and he just pips Ezri Konsa to get in here.
"Next? The man himself. Jack Grealish, Captain Jack. What a 2020 he has had! He's broke into the England setup and has dazzled on the international stage. He's a phenomenal player and it all began at the start of 2020 at Turf Moor against Burnley, then at Brighton - then he didn't score again until the most important goal of that season against West Ham on the final day to keep Villa up in true Jack fashion. He's a beacon of light, he's the poster boy and he has started the new season off so very well.
"Finally, it's a bit of a left-field shout - but what about the Egyptian king, Trezeguet? Everyone will remember the last minute winner against Leicester City to secure the Wembley final against Manchester City. It was sheer pandemonium. Then he scored three in four during Project Restart - those goals kept Villa up. Those goals - and the cup one - were so important and some incredible doing, really. He's selfless as well, players at Bodymoor Heath will joke and say he sprints to training from his house to get in. Says everything about him, doesn't it?
"Out of those four, there's only one winner though. Jack Grealish. We can't deny what the others have done as it was a monumental effort to secure Premier League survival by a single point. Grealish has carried on and excelled further, though - he's an icon and everyone is buzzing about him. The vote should reflect a deserving winner in Grealish, not just for the AVFC prize, but the top gong itself."
Now we have the four nominees, it is your turn to pick the winner of this brand new award. Navigate your browser to http://www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk or simply fill in the form below, selecting Aston Villa, register your choice and wait to see who you have crowned Birmingham Live Aston Villa Fans’ Footballer of the Year 2020.
So whether it’s Grealish, Mings, Trezeguet or Luiz, be sure to have your say on who has impressed you the most in Dean Smith's side since January.
You can also debate which of the four deserves to win - or if another player should have been included - in our special chat room. There is also an opportunity to listen to our writer discuss their choice, and sign up for all the latest updates about Aston Villa from Birmingham Live .
The winner for both the Birmingham Live Aston Villa Fans’ Footballer of the Year and overall Fans’ Footballer of the Year will be announced on December 21. Keep an eye on our social channels and on the Birmingham Live website for the results.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Four West Brom players nominated for new Premier League award

While 2020 has n't been the year anyone was hoping , it did involve a West Bromwich Albion promotion - and now is your chance to remember the players who have performed best over the last 12 months .
This year marks the inaugural Fans ’ Footballer of the Year award , with fans selecting from four nominees - selected by our Albion man Joseph Chapman - to crown their team ’ s best footballer .
You can define ‘ Footballer of the Year ’ however you want .
It might be your most important star .
It could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your seat the most .
Perhaps it is the one you simply can not wait to see when you can return to the Hawthorns in the future .
Or maybe it is a man who goes above and beyond , not only on the pitch , but off it .
We asked Joe for his four nominees for Birmingham Live West Brom Fans ’ Footballer of the Year .
Here is what he said .
`` The year 2020 has , largely , been a calendar of struggle for West Brom - that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in that time , they ’ ve secured promotion and a return to the Premier League .
`` Slaven Bilic oversaw a quite superb second half of 2019 , but results deteriorated by the turn of the new year and , bar a couple of hot streaks , they ’ ve never really , consistently , picked up again .
`` Albion enjoyed a superb February where they collected 16 points from a possible 21 and earned Bilic the manager of the month gong , and they also hauled themselves over the promotion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the restart .
`` Yet in between , Albion have struggled , and that includes the beginning of this campaign where they count themselves among the elite once again .
At the time of writing , they ’ re yet to taste victory despite a handful of encouraging performances .
`` One or two players are showing that they can cut it at this level , having largely dominated the Championship last term .
`` One such individual is Matheus Pereira .
`` A player who not too many Albion fans would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his arrival in August 2019 , Pereira proved to be a joy to watch in the second tier , a real entertainer whose skill and flair was backed up by his substantial contribution when it came to goals and assists .
`` In all , the Brazilian netted eight and provided assists for 20 more .
He ’ s shown that he has what it takes to compete at the top table too and must be the club ’ s pick for Fans ' Footballer of the Year 2020 . ''
Now we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your turn to pick the winner of this brand new award .
Navigate your browser to http : //www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk or simply fill in the form below , selecting West Brom , register your choice and wait to see who you have crowned Birmingham Live West Brom Fans ’ Footballer of the Year 2020 .
So whether it ’ s Pereira , Ajayi , Livermore or Robson-Kanu , be sure to have your say on who has impressed you the most in Bilic 's side since January .
You can also debate which of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if another player should have been included - in our special chat room .
There is also an opportunity to listen to our writer discuss their choice , and sign up for all the latest updates about West Brom from Birmingham Live .
The winner for both the Birmingham Live West Brom Footballer of the Year and overall Fans ’ Footballer of the Year will be announced on December 21 .
Keep an eye on our social channels and on the Birmingham Live website for the results .

While 2020 hasn't been the year anyone was hoping, it did involve a West Bromwich Albion promotion - and now is your chance to remember the players who have performed best over the last 12 months.
This year marks the inaugural Fans’ Footballer of the Year award, with fans selecting from four nominees - selected by our Albion man Joseph Chapman - to crown their team’s best footballer.
You can define ‘Footballer of the Year’ however you want. It might be your most important star. It could be the player who has moved you from your seat the most. Perhaps it is the one you simply cannot wait to see when you can return to the Hawthorns in the future. Or maybe it is a man who goes above and beyond, not only on the pitch, but off it.
We asked Joe for his four nominees for Birmingham Live West Brom Fans’ Footballer of the Year.
Here is what he said.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Nominees: Matheus Pereira, Semi Ajayi, Jake Livermore, Hal Robson-Kanu
"The year 2020 has, largely, been a calendar of struggle for West Brom - that’s despite the fact that, in that time, they’ve secured promotion and a return to the Premier League.
"Slaven Bilic oversaw a quite superb second half of 2019, but results deteriorated by the turn of the new year and, bar a couple of hot streaks, they’ve never really, consistently, picked up again.
"Albion enjoyed a superb February where they collected 16 points from a possible 21 and earned Bilic the manager of the month gong, and they also hauled themselves over the promotion line with a string of key victories after the restart.
"Yet in between, Albion have struggled, and that includes the beginning of this campaign where they count themselves among the elite once again. At the time of writing, they’re yet to taste victory despite a handful of encouraging performances.
"One or two players are showing that they can cut it at this level, having largely dominated the Championship last term.
"One such individual is Matheus Pereira.
"A player who not too many Albion fans would’ve known too much about before his arrival in August 2019, Pereira proved to be a joy to watch in the second tier, a real entertainer whose skill and flair was backed up by his substantial contribution when it came to goals and assists.
"In all, the Brazilian netted eight and provided assists for 20 more. He’s shown that he has what it takes to compete at the top table too and must be the club’s pick for Fans' Footballer of the Year 2020."
Now we have the four nominees, it is your turn to pick the winner of this brand new award. Navigate your browser to http://www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk or simply fill in the form below, selecting West Brom, register your choice and wait to see who you have crowned Birmingham Live West Brom Fans’ Footballer of the Year 2020.
So whether it’s Pereira, Ajayi, Livermore or Robson-Kanu, be sure to have your say on who has impressed you the most in Bilic's side since January.
You can also debate which of the four deserves to win - or if another player should have been included - in our special chat room. There is also an opportunity to listen to our writer discuss their choice, and sign up for all the latest updates about West Brom from Birmingham Live.
The winner for both the Birmingham Live West Brom Footballer of the Year and overall Fans’ Footballer of the Year will be announced on December 21. Keep an eye on our social channels and on the Birmingham Live website for the results.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Vote for our Wolves Footballer of the Year as four contenders emerge

2020 has been yet another memorable year for Wolverhampton Wanderers - and now is your chance to acknowledge the players who have performed best over the last 12 months .
This year marks the inaugural Reach plc Fans ’ Footballer of the Year award , with supporters able to select their winner from four nominees put forward by Wolves correspondent Alex Dicken .
You can define ‘ Footballer of the Year ’ however you want .
It might be your most important star .
It could be the player who has moved you from your seat the most .
Perhaps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not wait to see when you can return to Molineux in the future .
Or maybe it is a man who goes above and beyond , not only on the pitch , but off it .
We asked Alex for his four nominees for our Wolves Fans ’ Footballer of the Year and here is what he said .
Nominees : Rui Patricio , Conor Coady , Ruben Neves , Raul Jimenez '' There are a number of contenders for Wolves after an excellent 2020 but one man tops the lot for me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to another level this calendar year before that shocking injury he sustained at Arsenal at the end of November .
`` He scored 27 goals last season , including 17 in the Premier League , and started this campaign in excellent fashion too .
`` Not only has Jimenez proved himself to be an excellent finisher , he is quite possibly the most complete centre-forward in the Premier League .
There doesn ’ t seem to be anything the Mexican can ’ t do .
`` He lost his title as Wolves ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performances in old gold have made the £32.6million the club spent on him in 2019 look like extraordinary value for money . ''
Now we have the four nominees , it is your turn to pick the winner of this brand new award .
Navigate your browser to http : //www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk or simply fill in the form below , selecting Wolves , register your choice and wait to see who you have crowned BirminghamLive Wolves Fans ’ Footballer of the Year 2020 .
So whether it ’ s Patricio , Coady , Neves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your say on who has impressed you the most in Nuno Espirito Santo 's side since January .
You can also debate which of the four deserves to win - or if another player should have been included - in our special chat room .
There is also an opportunity to listen to our writer discuss their choice , and sign up for all the latest updates about Wolves from BirminghamLive .
The winner for both the BirminghamLive Wolves Footballer of the Year and overall Fans ’ Footballer of the Year will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eye on our social channels and on the BirminghamLive website for the results .

2020 has been yet another memorable year for Wolverhampton Wanderers - and now is your chance to acknowledge the players who have performed best over the last 12 months.
This year marks the inaugural Reach plc Fans’ Footballer of the Year award, with supporters able to select their winner from four nominees put forward by Wolves correspondent Alex Dicken.
You can define ‘Footballer of the Year’ however you want. It might be your most important star. It could be the player who has moved you from your seat the most. Perhaps it is the one you simply cannot wait to see when you can return to Molineux in the future. Or maybe it is a man who goes above and beyond, not only on the pitch, but off it.
We asked Alex for his four nominees for our Wolves Fans’ Footballer of the Year and here is what he said.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Nominees: Rui Patricio, Conor Coady, Ruben Neves, Raul Jimenez
"There are a number of contenders for Wolves after an excellent 2020 but one man tops the lot for me.
"Raul Jimenez elevated his game to another level this calendar year before that shocking injury he sustained at Arsenal at the end of November.
"He scored 27 goals last season, including 17 in the Premier League, and started this campaign in excellent fashion too.
"Not only has Jimenez proved himself to be an excellent finisher, he is quite possibly the most complete centre-forward in the Premier League. There doesn’t seem to be anything the Mexican can’t do.
"He lost his title as Wolves’ record transfer earlier this year but his performances in old gold have made the £32.6million the club spent on him in 2019 look like extraordinary value for money."
Now we have the four nominees, it is your turn to pick the winner of this brand new award. Navigate your browser to http://www.fansfootballeroftheyear.co.uk or simply fill in the form below, selecting Wolves, register your choice and wait to see who you have crowned BirminghamLive Wolves Fans’ Footballer of the Year 2020.
So whether it’s Patricio, Coady, Neves or Jimenez, be sure to have your say on who has impressed you the most in Nuno Espirito Santo's side since January.
You can also debate which of the four deserves to win - or if another player should have been included - in our special chat room. There is also an opportunity to listen to our writer discuss their choice, and sign up for all the latest updates about Wolves from BirminghamLive.
The winner for both the BirminghamLive Wolves Footballer of the Year and overall Fans’ Footballer of the Year will be announced on December 21. Keep an eye on our social channels and on the BirminghamLive website for the results.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Pedestrian dies after being hit by car as family pay tribute

A man has tragically died two weeks after being hit by a car in Birmingham .
Alan Worgan , aged 45 , suffered serious injuries when he was struck by a VW Golf in Dolphin Lane at around 12.30pm on Tuesday November 17 .
West Midlands Police have confirmed that he tragically died of his injuries last Friday ( December 4 ) , as the force launched a fresh appeal for witnesses .
His grieving family have issued a statement , paying tribute to him .
They said : `` Alan was a beloved son , dad , husband , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He was one of the nicest and genuine people you could ever meet and would anything for anyone .
Buy a gift for a homeless child and make a # BrumWish come true Thousands of children in Birmingham face a Christmas without a proper home this year - but there is something you can do .
Our campaign , Grant a Christmas # BrumWish , aims to help buy presents for more than 1,000 youngsters cramped together , sharing beds , in soulless rooms in B & Bs , and others who will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is all through an Amazon Wish List - meaning you can personally buy a present that will be delivered before December 25 .
Make sure you set delivery to the # BrumWish Campaign , and we will ensure the presents get to the kids .
If you ca n't get on Amazon , you can donate cash through the Winter Wellbeing VirginMoney page - just make sure to put the word BRUM in the comments so it comes through to # BrumWish .
`` He was a very hard working man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loved ones and friends . ''
West Midlands Police said the driver of the car stopped at the scene and was helping them with their enquiries .
They are appealing for anyone with information or dash cam footage to contact them .
This can be done via FL_Collision_Invest @ west-midlands.pnn.police.uk , online via Live Chat , or by calling 101 .
Please quote log number 1873 of 17 November .

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A man has tragically died two weeks after being hit by a car in Birmingham.
Alan Worgan, aged 45, suffered serious injuries when he was struck by a VW Golf in Dolphin Lane at around 12.30pm on Tuesday November 17.
West Midlands Police have confirmed that he tragically died of his injuries last Friday (December 4), as the force launched a fresh appeal for witnesses.
(Image: Google)
His grieving family have issued a statement, paying tribute to him.
They said: "Alan was a beloved son, dad, husband, uncle, brother and granddad.
"He was one of the nicest and genuine people you could ever meet and would anything for anyone.
"He was a very hard working man and will be sadly missed by his loved ones and friends."
West Midlands Police said the driver of the car stopped at the scene and was helping them with their enquiries.
They are appealing for anyone with information or dash cam footage to contact them.
This can be done via FL_Collision_Invest@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk, online via Live Chat, or by calling 101. Please quote log number 1873 of 17 November.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Villa fans are all saying the same thing as Wolves are demolished

There was a feeling of normal service being resumed at Anfield last night as Liverpool put recent difficulties behind them to demolish a very good Wolves team .
While the visitors were architects of their own downfall in the first half , they were swept aside by a clinical display from Jurgen Klopp ’ s men in the second .
The 4-0 victory saw the Reds join Tottenham at the top of the table and left Wolves down in tenth , two points and two places better off than the Claret and Blues - but having played two games more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact while Wolves were beaten by Liverpool , Dean Smith ’ s men battered the champions 7-2 earlier this season .
With the neighbours set to meet at Molineux on Saturday , these Villa fans couldn ’ t help themselves .
@ Villaboy89 : Beating Liverpool just ain ’ t for everyone , is it Wolves lol @ Davejar_vu : I suppose scoring 7 against liverpool isnt for everyone @ Dan87av : Wow , is Wolves getting humiliated going to be good or bad for us next weekend though @ avfc_samir : An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this game on Saturday is huge @ AVFC_AP : Mmm Wolves are getting nice and roasted for us next week @ TheVillaVision : If Grealish ever dived like Coady did there twitter would go into meltdown with everyone saying how much of a cheat he is .
Shocking dive

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There was a feeling of normal service being resumed at Anfield last night as Liverpool put recent difficulties behind them to demolish a very good Wolves team.
While the visitors were architects of their own downfall in the first half, they were swept aside by a clinical display from Jurgen Klopp’s men in the second.
The 4-0 victory saw the Reds join Tottenham at the top of the table and left Wolves down in tenth, two points and two places better off than the Claret and Blues - but having played two games more.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
And there’s also the fact while Wolves were beaten by Liverpool, Dean Smith’s men battered the champions 7-2 earlier this season.
With the neighbours set to meet at Molineux on Saturday, these Villa fans couldn’t help themselves.
@CallumAVFC__: Beating Liverpool isn’t for everyone
@Villaboy89: Beating Liverpool just ain’t for everyone , is it Wolves lol
@RussellB81984: Annihilating Liverpool isn’t for everyone lads
@Davejar_vu: I suppose scoring 7 against liverpool isnt for everyone
@Dan87av: Wow, is Wolves getting humiliated going to be good or bad for us next weekend though
@avfc_samir: An angry wolves against an angry Villa, this game on Saturday is huge
@AVFC_AP: Mmm Wolves are getting nice and roasted for us next week
@TheVillaVision: If Grealish ever dived like Coady did there twitter would go into meltdown with everyone saying how much of a cheat he is. Shocking dive


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Wolves' Raul Jimenez problem Aston Villa should be fearful of

Wolverhampton Wanderers are having to deal with something they 've never had to before - and it should provide a timely warning to Dean Smith and Aston Villa .
Star striker Raul Jimenez is now out indefinitely after fracturing his skull after a bone-shattering head clash at Arsenal last week .
The brave Mexican - who 's thankfully recovering at home now - watched champions Liverpool brutally dismantle his Wolves teammates last night in what was the only-ever Premier League match Jimenez has missed .
Prior to sustaining that concussive injury , 29-year-old Jimenez had played in all 86 top-flight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 2018-19 season and , in that period , started all but three matches .
Jimenez 's importance to the Wolves cause was hammered home during Sunday evening 's 4-0 defeat , with Nuno Espirito Santo starting pocket-sized wide man Daniel Podence - one of the Premier League 's smallest players - in Jimenez 's No.9 position .
Nuno , meanwhile , was reluctant to hand £36 million teenage striker Fabio Silva his first Premier League start given his inexperience .
And it 's 18-year-old Silva who 's the only natural option to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What 's more is Wolves and Nuno have been renowned for sticking with the same XI since promotion while using the fewest amount of players in doing so - a tact this weekend 's opponents Villa have looked to follow this season .
Wolves , though , now have the biggest of problems without the reliance of serial goal-getter Jimenez , scorer of 47 goals in 110 appearances in old gold .
He 's also laid on 18 assists to date which takes his direct goal involvements for Wolves to 65 in 110 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was spent on Jimenez 's understudy , Silva , but he 's still considered a rookie and was n't trusted to play at Anfield on Sunday evening .
Pedro Neto , Podence and Adama Traore are the only other options Nuno has at his disposal over Christmas , a predicament the Portuguese must have been content with going into the season after selling Diogo Jota to Liverpool .
Helder Costa also joined Leeds permanently while the likes of Leo Bonatini and Leonardo Campana were loaned out to make the squad more streamlined .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Smith wanted at Villa this season and that was sustained over a busy summer period which saw 14 fringe players depart Bodymoor Heath with only five new arrivals signed .
An initial £75 million was spent on Smith 's new signings who have all slotted into Villa 's starting XI seamlessly .
Villa bolstered up their back line with the additions of new No.1 Emiliano Martinez and Matty Cash at right-back ; snapped up the versatile Bertrand Traore from Lyon while adding Ross Barkley on loan .
Villa also spent a club-record fee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will rely heavily on for most of the season .
The £28 million man has started in fine form after bagging six from his first nine matches - and that 's despite missing a penalty last time out against West Ham .
He 's played every single minute since arriving as well , a trait that was synonymous with Jimenez at Wolves .
Watkins to Villa is what Jimenez is to Wolves , if you like , with both tasked with scoring the goals laid onto them by their creative teammates .
Wolves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a concern already outlined above while the same could well be said of Villa 's striker department should Watkins sustain an injury .
Villa know all too well about how injuries can derail seasons after losing the likes of John McGinn , Tom Heaton and £22 million striker Wesley during 2019-20 .
As it stands , Smith solely has makeshift forward Traore to call upon should Watkins be unavailable .
The Burkinabe was signed to provide competition to Trezeguet on Villa 's right-hand side while , in reserve , Keinan Davis is struggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 22-year-old has missed the last two squads with injury .
BirminghamLive 's dedicated Aston Villa reporter Ashley Preece wants to hear from you , the fans .
Have you got a Villa-related story to tell ?
Do you want to get something off your chest about a recent performance ?
Or have you got any brilliant match day videos or photographs you 'd like to share ?
Well , you 're in the right place .
Our man said : `` I want to get amongst the fan base who pay their hard-earned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and blue , giving supporters a voice about all things AVFC , whether it 's a talking point from a game or an incident or issue not being dealt with , drop me a line and get in touch .
As always , up the Villa ! ''
You can get in touch with Ashley via the following channels : With Traore not a natural No.9 and Davis increasingly injury-prone , Villa 's only other option to replace Watkins should an injury occur is Brazilian striker Wesley .
The forward is on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has kept him out for 12 months .
Wesley , for the record , wo n't be fit to play in the Premier League until February-March time at the very earliest , meaning Villa will have to go with either Traore or Davis - or possibly even Anwar El Ghazi - as Watkins ' back-up should disaster happen .
The January transfer window opens in less than a month and there remains a possibility Villa could be active to help sustain their fight to cement a top-half finish come May .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agenda in January , though , with Watkins 'looking to do a Jimenez ' by starting every game as Villa 's main man up front .
An injury could just be around the corner , though , especially throughout the hectic festive period , and Villa will be wary of that very possibility while also leaning on their experiences last year after losing main man at the time , Wesley .

Wolverhampton Wanderers are having to deal with something they've never had to before - and it should provide a timely warning to Dean Smith and Aston Villa.
Star striker Raul Jimenez is now out indefinitely after fracturing his skull after a bone-shattering head clash at Arsenal last week. The brave Mexican - who's thankfully recovering at home now - watched champions Liverpool brutally dismantle his Wolves teammates last night in what was the only-ever Premier League match Jimenez has missed.
Prior to sustaining that concussive injury, 29-year-old Jimenez had played in all 86 top-flight games since signing at Molineux ahead of the 2018-19 season and, in that period, started all but three matches. Jimenez's importance to the Wolves cause was hammered home during Sunday evening's 4-0 defeat, with Nuno Espirito Santo starting pocket-sized wide man Daniel Podence - one of the Premier League's smallest players - in Jimenez's No.9 position. Nuno, meanwhile, was reluctant to hand £36 million teenage striker Fabio Silva his first Premier League start given his inexperience.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
And it's 18-year-old Silva who's the only natural option to replace Jimenez until January at least. What's more is Wolves and Nuno have been renowned for sticking with the same XI since promotion while using the fewest amount of players in doing so - a tact this weekend's opponents Villa have looked to follow this season. Wolves, though, now have the biggest of problems without the reliance of serial goal-getter Jimenez, scorer of 47 goals in 110 appearances in old gold. He's also laid on 18 assists to date which takes his direct goal involvements for Wolves to 65 in 110 matches played.
Now a hefty price was spent on Jimenez's understudy, Silva, but he's still considered a rookie and wasn't trusted to play at Anfield on Sunday evening. Pedro Neto, Podence and Adama Traore are the only other options Nuno has at his disposal over Christmas, a predicament the Portuguese must have been content with going into the season after selling Diogo Jota to Liverpool. Helder Costa also joined Leeds permanently while the likes of Leo Bonatini and Leonardo Campana were loaned out to make the squad more streamlined.
Having a more streamlined squad was something Smith wanted at Villa this season and that was sustained over a busy summer period which saw 14 fringe players depart Bodymoor Heath with only five new arrivals signed. An initial £75 million was spent on Smith's new signings who have all slotted into Villa's starting XI seamlessly.
Villa bolstered up their back line with the additions of new No.1 Emiliano Martinez and Matty Cash at right-back; snapped up the versatile Bertrand Traore from Lyon while adding Ross Barkley on loan. Villa also spent a club-record fee on Ollie Watkins, a player Villa will rely heavily on for most of the season. The £28 million man has started in fine form after bagging six from his first nine matches - and that's despite missing a penalty last time out against West Ham. He's played every single minute since arriving as well, a trait that was synonymous with Jimenez at Wolves. Watkins to Villa is what Jimenez is to Wolves, if you like, with both tasked with scoring the goals laid onto them by their creative teammates.
Wolves' depth up front without Jimenez is a concern already outlined above while the same could well be said of Villa's striker department should Watkins sustain an injury. Villa know all too well about how injuries can derail seasons after losing the likes of John McGinn, Tom Heaton and £22 million striker Wesley during 2019-20. As it stands, Smith solely has makeshift forward Traore to call upon should Watkins be unavailable. The Burkinabe was signed to provide competition to Trezeguet on Villa's right-hand side while, in reserve, Keinan Davis is struggling to stay fit yet again. The 22-year-old has missed the last two squads with injury.
Our Man at Villa: Ashley Preece BirminghamLive's dedicated Aston Villa reporter Ashley Preece wants to hear from you, the fans. Have you got a Villa-related story to tell? Do you want to get something off your chest about a recent performance? Or have you got any brilliant match day videos or photographs you'd like to share? Well, you're in the right place. Our man said: "I want to get amongst the fan base who pay their hard-earned cash to follow the boys in claret and blue, giving supporters a voice about all things AVFC, whether it's a talking point from a game or an incident or issue not being dealt with, drop me a line and get in touch. As always, up the Villa!" You can get in touch with Ashley via the following channels: Twitter: PreeceObserver Facebook: PreeceBirminghamLive / astonvillanews Instagram: avfc_birmingham_live Email: ashley.preece@reachplc.com WhatsApp: 07557205119
With Traore not a natural No.9 and Davis increasingly injury-prone, Villa's only other option to replace Watkins should an injury occur is Brazilian striker Wesley. The forward is on the comeback trail from significant knee ligament damage which has kept him out for 12 months. Wesley, for the record, won't be fit to play in the Premier League until February-March time at the very earliest, meaning Villa will have to go with either Traore or Davis - or possibly even Anwar El Ghazi - as Watkins' back-up should disaster happen.
The January transfer window opens in less than a month and there remains a possibility Villa could be active to help sustain their fight to cement a top-half finish come May. A striker isn't high on Smith's agenda in January, though, with Watkins 'looking to do a Jimenez' by starting every game as Villa's main man up front. An injury could just be around the corner, though, especially throughout the hectic festive period, and Villa will be wary of that very possibility while also leaning on their experiences last year after losing main man at the time, Wesley.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Meet brave cop at work with stab and bullet-proof stoma bag

A brave police officer battling a deadly bowel condition is set to return to work - after being fitted with a bulletproof STOMA BAG .
PC Mark Woodcock will resume front-line duties in the new year donning the titanium-plated armour five years after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis .
The 33-year-old , who is a traffic officer with West Midlands Police , had to take three months off after he was left in crippling pain with the serious bowel disease .
But after undergoing surgery to have his colon removed and being fitted with a stoma bag this summer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to the line of duty .
PC Woodcock has been given the £220 specially-adapted stab and bulletproof colostomy bag , which was developed by American firm for US military veterans .
PC Woodcock , of Leicester , has also been sharing his journey on Twitter gaining hundreds of followers while candidly charting his brave battle .
He was 28 and had just got married when he was first diagnosed with ulcerative colitis - a chronic condition that leaves the colon and rectum inflamed .
PC Woodcock , who works for the force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` After several trips to the doctor and hospital I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis .
`` At the time I was only 28 and thought ‘ surely I ’ m too young for things like this ’ but I was completely wrong .
`` I had never heard of the condition myself and was surprised to learn that one in every 420 people live with the disease and surprisingly it ’ s commonly diagnosed in people from 15 to 25 years old .
`` For the first two years it had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2017 I experienced my first flare up and was off work for three months .
`` On my worst days I would make 15 trips to the toilet with bloody diarrhoea , constant fatigue , mouth ulcers and swollen joints .
`` The doctors placed me on immunosuppressant medication which worked great and I returned to my job .
`` In 2018 when I joined CMPG , my condition was manageable and I had no symptoms .
`` I was on daily medication and had to attend the hospital every eight weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my advanced car course I found out I was in remission , so I was taken off the immunosuppressant medication .
`` At the beginning of this year I started to become unwell again and was admitted to hospital .
`` I was placed on an intense course of steroids and back on the immunosuppressant medication .
`` Normally I would return to work but this year has been very different due to Coronavirus .
`` I was in hospital for a week and it was very surreal .
I had no visitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on TV .
`` I was also on a ward with patients who were ill with Covid .
`` I remember when I was discharged my friend picked me up from hospital and the roads were just empty .
As a traffic officer , that is something you never see .
`` Due to the immunosuppressant medication , I was placed on the NHS shielding list and if I ’ m honest I hated it .
`` I know it ’ s designed to protect me ; however I felt like a prisoner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m lucky that I have a wife and two children at home who supported and kept me busy so the time quickly passed .
`` After 10 weeks I was taken off the shielding list .
I was able to finally leave the house , go for a walk and get back to work , driving as a traffic cop .
`` I was so glad to be back at work and enjoyed getting back to some sort of normality . ''
But in August this year , PC Woodcock was readmitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was placed on another course of steroids which did not work .
He was given the choice of trying one last medication , which had a 20 per cent chance of success , or have his colon removed .
He added : `` I ’ m not a betting man but I know 20 per cent is not good odds plus it wasn ’ t a permanent fix so I ’ d just be delaying the inevitable .
`` Due to the current situation , I was in hospital on my own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Facetime with my wife .
`` We decided the best course of action would be the removal of the colon known as an Ileostomy and to be fitted with a stoma .
`` I had the operation on August 19 and after two days I started to feel better .
All the symptoms had gone , and I felt amazing .
`` I spent three weeks in hospital and it was extremely difficult not being able to see my family but worth every second as I am now getting my life back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home recovering from the operation and I will have to return to hospital at some point for a further operation .
`` I ’ ve been in touch with other police officers from different forces who have stomas who has shared his experience returning back to the front line .
`` The help and advice I have gained has really inspired me and accelerated my recovery .
`` I have joined Twitter to do the same , to help others who may be experiencing similar health problems .
`` I hope to document @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operation and recovery and how I find day to day living with a stoma as a police officer including the challenges it brings . ''

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A brave police officer battling a deadly bowel condition is set to return to work - after being fitted with a bulletproof STOMA BAG.
PC Mark Woodcock will resume front-line duties in the new year donning the titanium-plated armour five years after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
The 33-year-old, who is a traffic officer with West Midlands Police, had to take three months off after he was left in crippling pain with the serious bowel disease.
But after undergoing surgery to have his colon removed and being fitted with a stoma bag this summer, he says he is now ready to return to the line of duty.
PC Woodcock has been given the £220 specially-adapted stab and bulletproof colostomy bag, which was developed by American firm for US military veterans.
(Image: West Midlands Police / SWNS)
PC Woodcock, of Leicester, has also been sharing his journey on Twitter gaining hundreds of followers while candidly charting his brave battle.
He was 28 and had just got married when he was first diagnosed with ulcerative colitis - a chronic condition that leaves the colon and rectum inflamed.
PC Woodcock, who works for the force's Central Motorway Police Group, said: "After several trips to the doctor and hospital I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
"At the time I was only 28 and thought ‘surely I’m too young for things like this’ but I was completely wrong.
"I had never heard of the condition myself and was surprised to learn that one in every 420 people live with the disease and surprisingly it’s commonly diagnosed in people from 15 to 25 years old.
"For the first two years it had little effect on my life, but in 2017 I experienced my first flare up and was off work for three months.
(Image: @StomaCopWMP / WMP / SWNS)
"On my worst days I would make 15 trips to the toilet with bloody diarrhoea, constant fatigue, mouth ulcers and swollen joints.
"The doctors placed me on immunosuppressant medication which worked great and I returned to my job.
"In 2018 when I joined CMPG, my condition was manageable and I had no symptoms.
"I was on daily medication and had to attend the hospital every eight weeks for infusions
"In 2019 whilst on my advanced car course I found out I was in remission, so I was taken off the immunosuppressant medication.
"At the beginning of this year I started to become unwell again and was admitted to hospital.
"I was placed on an intense course of steroids and back on the immunosuppressant medication.
"Normally I would return to work but this year has been very different due to Coronavirus.
"I was in hospital for a week and it was very surreal. I had no visitors and could only watch the events unfold on TV.
"I was also on a ward with patients who were ill with Covid.
"I remember when I was discharged my friend picked me up from hospital and the roads were just empty. As a traffic officer, that is something you never see.
"Due to the immunosuppressant medication, I was placed on the NHS shielding list and if I’m honest I hated it.
"I know it’s designed to protect me; however I felt like a prisoner in my own home.
"I’m lucky that I have a wife and two children at home who supported and kept me busy so the time quickly passed.
"After 10 weeks I was taken off the shielding list. I was able to finally leave the house, go for a walk and get back to work, driving as a traffic cop.
"I was so glad to be back at work and enjoyed getting back to some sort of normality."
(Image: @StomaCopWMP / WMP / SWNS)
But in August this year, PC Woodcock was readmitted to hospital after his condition worsened and he was placed on another course of steroids which did not work.
He was given the choice of trying one last medication, which had a 20 per cent chance of success, or have his colon removed.
He added: "I’m not a betting man but I know 20 per cent is not good odds plus it wasn’t a permanent fix so I’d just be delaying the inevitable.
"Due to the current situation, I was in hospital on my own and had to make this life-changing decision on Facetime with my wife.
"We decided the best course of action would be the removal of the colon known as an Ileostomy and to be fitted with a stoma.
"I had the operation on August 19 and after two days I started to feel better. All the symptoms had gone, and I felt amazing.
"I spent three weeks in hospital and it was extremely difficult not being able to see my family but worth every second as I am now getting my life back.
"I’m now at home recovering from the operation and I will have to return to hospital at some point for a further operation.
"I’ve been in touch with other police officers from different forces who have stomas who has shared his experience returning back to the front line.
"The help and advice I have gained has really inspired me and accelerated my recovery.
"I have joined Twitter to do the same, to help others who may be experiencing similar health problems.
"I hope to document my return to work, my next operation and recovery and how I find day to day living with a stoma as a police officer including the challenges it brings."


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Driver airlifted to hospital with serious injuries after crash

A driver was airlifted to hospital and two others injured following a serious crash in Evesham .
The collision took place close to the junction of the A46 Evesham bypass and The Link at around 2.20pm on Saturday afternoon ( December 5 ) .
An ambulance that was taking a patient to hospital came across two cars which had suffered 'significant damage ' and stopped to provide care until further ambulance crews and paramedics arrived .
The drivers of both vehicles had been left trapped as a result of the crash , with one suffering multiple injuries .
After being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham .
Two people in the second car were also rushed to hospital , with the driver also being taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham after being trapped in his vehicle for around 40 minutes .
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said : “ On arrival , crews found two cars that had suffered significant damage .
The drivers of both cars were trapped in their vehicles .
“ The driver of the first car was trapped for almost an hour .
He had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment at the scene , he was airlifted to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with potentially serious injuries .
“ There were two people in the second car .
The driver was trapped for around 40 minutes .
He too was assessed and treated at the scene .
He was taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with potentially serious injuries .
A critical care paramedic travelled with the ambulance crew .
“ The front seat passenger in the car , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the vehicle herself .
She had suffered less serious injuries and was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital by ambulance .
”

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A driver was airlifted to hospital and two others injured following a serious crash in Evesham.
The collision took place close to the junction of the A46 Evesham bypass and The Link at around 2.20pm on Saturday afternoon (December 5).
An ambulance that was taking a patient to hospital came across two cars which had suffered 'significant damage' and stopped to provide care until further ambulance crews and paramedics arrived.
The drivers of both vehicles had been left trapped as a result of the crash, with one suffering multiple injuries.
After being freed, one driver was airlifted to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.
Two people in the second car were also rushed to hospital, with the driver also being taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham after being trapped in his vehicle for around 40 minutes.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found two cars that had suffered significant damage. The drivers of both cars were trapped in their vehicles.
“The driver of the first car was trapped for almost an hour. He had suffered multiple injuries. After assessment and treatment at the scene, he was airlifted to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with potentially serious injuries.
“There were two people in the second car. The driver was trapped for around 40 minutes. He too was assessed and treated at the scene. He was taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with potentially serious injuries. A critical care paramedic travelled with the ambulance crew.
“The front seat passenger in the car, a woman, had been able to get out of the vehicle herself. She had suffered less serious injuries and was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital by ambulance.”


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Van rolls over in Wolverhampton crash

Van rolls over in Wolverhampton crash

Emergency services were called to the scene of a crash in the early hours of this morning in Wolverhampton .
The vehicle had rolled onto its side - temporarily blocking the carriageway - on Lower Street in the Tettenhall area of the city at around 6.17am today ( December 7 ) .
West Midlands Ambulance Service said a man was standing outside of the vehicle when crews arrived at the scene but the patient did not want treatment as he said 'he was unhurt ' .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolverhampton where a van had rolled over .
`` One patient , a man , was standing outside of the vehicle when crews arrived at the scene .
`` We sent two ambulances to the scene but the patient did not want treatment as he said he was unhurt .
The crew left the scene 13 minutes after arrival . ''
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Fire control confirmed that two fire engines were sent to the scene and only one vehicle was involved in the incident .
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Our campaign , Grant a Christmas # BrumWish , aims to help buy presents for more than 1,000 youngsters cramped together , sharing beds , in soulless rooms in B & Bs , and others who will be in a Women 's Aid refuge .
It is all through an Amazon Wish List - meaning you can personally buy a present that will be delivered before December 25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the # BrumWish Campaign , and we will ensure the presents get to the kids .
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Less than a five-minute drive away , in an unconnected incident , a driver was taken to hospital after being involved in a two-car collision .
Issuing a warning to motorists , the Penn and Tettenhall Police team tweeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning ... .take care out there . ''
Cold and foggy weather conditions were forecast for the area by the Met Office .
Frost and freezing fog patches are expected to be slow to clear and will persist in places .

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Emergency services were called to the scene of a crash in the early hours of this morning in Wolverhampton.
The vehicle had rolled onto its side - temporarily blocking the carriageway - on Lower Street in the Tettenhall area of the city at around 6.17am today (December 7).
West Midlands Ambulance Service said a man was standing outside of the vehicle when crews arrived at the scene but the patient did not want treatment as he said 'he was unhurt'.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 6.17am this morning to Lower Street in Wolverhampton where a van had rolled over.
(Image: Wolverhampton Fire Station)
"One patient, a man, was standing outside of the vehicle when crews arrived at the scene.
"We sent two ambulances to the scene but the patient did not want treatment as he said he was unhurt. The crew left the scene 13 minutes after arrival."
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Fire control confirmed that two fire engines were sent to the scene and only one vehicle was involved in the incident.
Less than a five-minute drive away, in an unconnected incident, a driver was taken to hospital after being involved in a two-car collision.
Issuing a warning to motorists, the Penn and Tettenhall Police team tweeted: "Weather conditions are bad this morning....take care out there."
Cold and foggy weather conditions were forecast for the area by the Met Office. Frost and freezing fog patches are expected to be slow to clear and will persist in places.


birminghammail--2020-12-07--Man creates UK's ultimate house plant haul - with one worth £12,000 a leaf

A green-fingered Brit has grown the ultimate collection of house plants including a species worth £12,000 a LEAF - and has already sold three .
Tony Le-Britton , 30 , turned his lounge into a jungle and transformed his spare room into an incredible greenhouse to nurture his passion .
He has collected some of the world 's rarest plants - including one previously thought to have been extinct .
And Tony , from Cheltenham , Glos.
, is now flogging the leaves of another rare species for thousands of pounds per leaf to eager collectors .
A top hair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his success with plants down to not becoming obsessed by them .
His prized possession is the Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Variegata - the most valuable species in his collection .
Tony said : `` The non-variegated plant is really common - you can pick it up in most supermarkets and garden centres .
`` But my version , that 's the genetic mutation - it 's completely random , which makes it rare .
It 's the only one in the world [ with that leaf pattern ] .
`` I have already taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaf .
There 's a waiting list .
I have had so many people contacting me .
It 's like growing money on trees ! ''
Tony is also the proud owner of a Monastera sp Bolivia - which is currently undocumented by science .
He said : `` [ It 's ] from a botanical collector in Austria .
I got it as a very small piece of stem .
It 's grown to huge proportions .
`` I put a picture online and a botanist in the field in Bolivia got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pictures - he had no record of the plant .
`` The only way to find out what it truly is is to find it in the wild .
Using the stem and leaf , we can then identify the family it belongs to . ''
A Begonia Chloristica , an exotic plant previously thought to have been lost in the wild , also has a special place in Tony 's greenhouse .
He added : `` It was thought extinct up until a couple of years ago .
I managed to find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Tony said his interest in plants stems from his grandparents , who would take him to their allotment when he was a small boy .
He also remembers being sat at his grandmother 's feet and watching 'Gardener 's World ' .
Tony said his grandmother Cora was known in the local area for her plant collection - which he has tried to emulate .
Stunning pictures now show the results of more than two decades of hard work - with two of his rooms filled with hundreds of plants .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with me - I grew up in the garden .
It 's all about the experiences I had when I was younger , being at the allotment with my grandparents .
`` People always admired [ Cora 's ] garden , and she made me a part of that .
It 's in my blood I suppose .
`` I did n't study plants formally , but I feel like around 25 years of growing teaches you an understanding .
`` You learn to just let plants get on with it .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plants .
`` In the living room , I set aside maybe three hours every three weeks .
I cut off any dead leaves , check the roots and water them .
`` The greenhouse is temperature , humidity and light controlled , so I can check everything is well on my phone .
It really does n't take a lot .
`` I do go in there every day - but that 's because I enjoy it '' .
Tony regularly post pictures to his 17,000 followers on Instagram , where he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
'Gardener 's World ' has even been in touch about doing a show from his house after seeing his social media page - which he described as life coming `` full circle '' .
Tony is now also capitalising on that popularity by selling parts of his rarest plants to other eager collectors .
And he is also working with an established fertiliser firm to sell his own brand to other plant lovers , which will be sold by his business Not Another Jungle .
Tony added that he has never worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - but guessed that it be could be significant .
He said : `` From an insurance point of view , it 's definitely added to the value .
It 's probably worth more than some houses !
`` But I have this collection of incredibly rare plants that , from the outside , nobody would ever guess - and I love that . ''
You can find Tony on Instagram @ notanotherjungle : https : //www.instagram.com/notanotherjungle/

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A green-fingered Brit has grown the ultimate collection of house plants including a species worth £12,000 a LEAF - and has already sold three.
Tony Le-Britton, 30, turned his lounge into a jungle and transformed his spare room into an incredible greenhouse to nurture his passion.
He has collected some of the world's rarest plants - including one previously thought to have been extinct.
And Tony, from Cheltenham, Glos., is now flogging the leaves of another rare species for thousands of pounds per leaf to eager collectors.
A top hair and beauty photographer professionally, he puts his success with plants down to not becoming obsessed by them.
His prized possession is the Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Variegata - the most valuable species in his collection.
Tony said: "The non-variegated plant is really common - you can pick it up in most supermarkets and garden centres.
(Image: SWNS)
"But my version, that's the genetic mutation - it's completely random, which makes it rare. It's the only one in the world [with that leaf pattern].
"I have already taken three pre-orders at £12,000 each, per leaf. There's a waiting list. I have had so many people contacting me. It's like growing money on trees!"
Tony is also the proud owner of a Monastera sp Bolivia - which is currently undocumented by science.
He said: "[It's] from a botanical collector in Austria. I got it as a very small piece of stem. It's grown to huge proportions.
"I put a picture online and a botanist in the field in Bolivia got in touch with me asking for more pictures - he had no record of the plant.
"The only way to find out what it truly is is to find it in the wild. Using the stem and leaf, we can then identify the family it belongs to."
(Image: SWNS)
A Begonia Chloristica, an exotic plant previously thought to have been lost in the wild, also has a special place in Tony's greenhouse.
He added: "It was thought extinct up until a couple of years ago. I managed to find one from a collector in Europe."
Tony said his interest in plants stems from his grandparents, who would take him to their allotment when he was a small boy.
He also remembers being sat at his grandmother's feet and watching 'Gardener's World'.
Tony said his grandmother Cora was known in the local area for her plant collection - which he has tried to emulate.
Stunning pictures now show the results of more than two decades of hard work - with two of his rooms filled with hundreds of plants.
(Image: SWNS)
He said: "It just with stuck with me - I grew up in the garden. It's all about the experiences I had when I was younger, being at the allotment with my grandparents.
"People always admired [Cora's] garden, and she made me a part of that. It's in my blood I suppose.
"I didn't study plants formally, but I feel like around 25 years of growing teaches you an understanding.
"You learn to just let plants get on with it. I think some people can overcare for their plants.
"In the living room, I set aside maybe three hours every three weeks. I cut off any dead leaves, check the roots and water them.
"The greenhouse is temperature, humidity and light controlled, so I can check everything is well on my phone. It really doesn't take a lot.
"I do go in there every day - but that's because I enjoy it".
(Image: SWNS)
Tony regularly post pictures to his 17,000 followers on Instagram, where he is the envy of the plant world.
'Gardener's World' has even been in touch about doing a show from his house after seeing his social media page - which he described as life coming "full circle".
Tony is now also capitalising on that popularity by selling parts of his rarest plants to other eager collectors.
And he is also working with an established fertiliser firm to sell his own brand to other plant lovers, which will be sold by his business Not Another Jungle.
Tony added that he has never worked out the total cost of his collection - but guessed that it be could be significant.
He said: "From an insurance point of view, it's definitely added to the value. It's probably worth more than some houses!
"But I have this collection of incredibly rare plants that, from the outside, nobody would ever guess - and I love that."
You can find Tony on Instagram @notanotherjungle: https://www.instagram.com/notanotherjungle/