birminghammail--2020-08-20--Wolves 'very close' to completing signing of Joao Palhinha

Wolverhampton Wanderers are 'very close ' to confirming the signing of Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha , according to reports in Portugal .
Nuno Espirito Santo has been extensively linked with the midfielder , who played against Wolves last season with Braga .
Palhinha has been linked with Wolves for much of the summer , with reports going back to the beginning of May .
The 25-year-old enjoyed an impressive season on-loan with Braga , but isn ’ t in Sporting ’ s plan and they are willing to cash in to fund their own transfer plans .
According to Tvi24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bring Palhinha to Molineux is ‘ very close to materialising ’ , for a fee between €12m and €14m .
That is less than the €15m originally quoted , but the report claims Sporting are happy to make a substantial profit on a player that has come through their academy .
If he does sign , the Portuguese will join compatriots Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho in the battle for places in the heart of Wolves ’ midfield .
Palhinha would signal the first arrival of the summer , with Nuno making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quality of the squad .
Wolves executive chairman Jeff Shi has revealed that recruitment staff are working around the clock , although they won ’ t be rushed with the extended window this summer .
He said : “ Our recruitment team are not resting , they are working night and day , and I ’ m deeply involved in any transfer discussion and decision .
“ We ’ ll keep working hard , but we will stick to our principles and not rush into anything that isn ’ t right for us @ @

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Wolverhampton Wanderers are 'very close' to confirming the signing of Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha, according to reports in Portugal.
Nuno Espirito Santo has been extensively linked with the midfielder, who played against Wolves last season with Braga.
Palhinha has been linked with Wolves for much of the summer, with reports going back to the beginning of May.
The 25-year-old enjoyed an impressive season on-loan with Braga, but isn’t in Sporting’s plan and they are willing to cash in to fund their own transfer plans.
According to Tvi24 (via Sport Witness) the deal to bring Palhinha to Molineux is ‘very close to materialising’, for a fee between €12m and €14m.
That is less than the €15m originally quoted, but the report claims Sporting are happy to make a substantial profit on a player that has come through their academy.
If he does sign, the Portuguese will join compatriots Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho in the battle for places in the heart of Wolves’ midfield.
Palhinha would signal the first arrival of the summer, with Nuno making it clear he wishes to improve the quality of the squad.
Wolves executive chairman Jeff Shi has revealed that recruitment staff are working around the clock, although they won’t be rushed with the extended window this summer.
He said: “Our recruitment team are not resting, they are working night and day, and I’m deeply involved in any transfer discussion and decision.
“We’ll keep working hard, but we will stick to our principles and not rush into anything that isn’t right for us.”


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Kind-hearted boy gets the chop and donates his locks to cancer patients

He boasted a flowing mane after emulating his hero , footballer Gareth Bale but now a school-boy has lopped his hair off and donated it to a cancer charity .
Reilly Stancombe , of Little Clacton in Essex , had never previously had a haircut but he wanted to help children who needed wigs after battling cancer .
He aimed to raise £100 for the Little Princess Trust charity , which also helps research projects focusing on finding less toxic treatments for paediatric cancers , but had topped £3,300 on his GoFundMe page by this week .
Reilly said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to admit . ''
But having seen his new haircut he added : `` I love it . ''
`` I really hope this will make a lot of people happy , '' said Reilly , adding that he hoped children `` wo n't feel like they 're different any more '' once they have a wig .
He got his hair cut at Masters & Misters barbers in Clacton-on-Sea on Tuesday and held his ponytail in his hand after it was cut off .
`` I was looking at it like 'What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I did n't think it was actually that long , then when I looked at it , it was massive .
`` It felt weird to see it not in my hair , and to be in my hand . ''
His proud mum , Daisy Canny , 30 , said people had always known her son as `` Reilly with the long hair '' and it was `` sort of his identity really '' .
She added that Reilly was born with a bowel condition and got the idea for donating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Great Ormond Street Hospital , where he goes for appointments .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (P.A, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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He boasted a flowing mane after emulating his hero, footballer Gareth Bale but now a school-boy has lopped his hair off and donated it to a cancer charity.
Reilly Stancombe, of Little Clacton in Essex, had never previously had a haircut but he wanted to help children who needed wigs after battling cancer.
He aimed to raise £100 for the Little Princess Trust charity, which also helps research projects focusing on finding less toxic treatments for paediatric cancers, but had topped £3,300 on his GoFundMe page by this week.
Reilly said: "I was scared, I have to admit."
But having seen his new haircut he added: "I love it."
"I really hope this will make a lot of people happy," said Reilly, adding that he hoped children "won't feel like they're different any more" once they have a wig.
(Image: PA)
He got his hair cut at Masters & Misters barbers in Clacton-on-Sea on Tuesday and held his ponytail in his hand after it was cut off.
"I was looking at it like 'What?'," he said. "I didn't think it was actually that long, then when I looked at it, it was massive.
"It felt weird to see it not in my hair, and to be in my hand."
(Image: PA)
His proud mum, Daisy Canny, 30, said people had always known her son as "Reilly with the long hair" and it was "sort of his identity really".
To donate, click here.
She added that Reilly was born with a bowel condition and got the idea for donating his hair when he saw poorly children at Great Ormond Street Hospital, where he goes for appointments.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Tottenham to rival Villa in race for Liverpool striker Brewster

Aston Villa were one of a number of clubs to be linked with the 20-year-old earlier this week , with Jurgen Klopp set to make a decision on his immediate future .
Dean Smith was linked with the 20-year-old in January , with Brewster ultimately teaming up with Steve Cooper at Swansea City .
That loan move worked for all parties , with Brewster playing regular football and hitting a rich vein of form , netting 11 times in just 22 games .
Newcastle , Brighton , Fulham and Crystal Palace are also in the race , with Goal.com reaffirming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under-21 striker on loan .
And now , according to Football Insider , Spurs boss Jose Mourinho is weighing up a move for Brewster , with another loan move seemingly on the cards .
The report does claim that Spurs acknowledge it is unlikely Liverpool will want to strengthen a direct rival , as well as not being able to offer him regular football .
Villa meanwhile , remain in the market for more reinforcements going forward .
Smith is yet to make a signing in the summer window , but with Wesley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struggling in his few starts , another striker could be on the cards .

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Tottenham are reportedly eyeing a move for in-demand Liverpool striker Rhian Brewster.
Aston Villa were one of a number of clubs to be linked with the 20-year-old earlier this week, with Jurgen Klopp set to make a decision on his immediate future.
Dean Smith was linked with the 20-year-old in January, with Brewster ultimately teaming up with Steve Cooper at Swansea City.
That loan move worked for all parties, with Brewster playing regular football and hitting a rich vein of form, netting 11 times in just 22 games.
Newcastle, Brighton, Fulham and Crystal Palace are also in the race, with Goal.com reaffirming Villa's interest in taking the England under-21 striker on loan.
And now, according to Football Insider, Spurs boss Jose Mourinho is weighing up a move for Brewster, with another loan move seemingly on the cards.
The report does claim that Spurs acknowledge it is unlikely Liverpool will want to strengthen a direct rival, as well as not being able to offer him regular football.
Villa meanwhile, remain in the market for more reinforcements going forward. Smith is yet to make a signing in the summer window, but with Wesley Moraes recovering from injury and Mbwana Samatta struggling in his few starts, another striker could be on the cards.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--CCTV released after chip shop 'Covid protection screen vandalised'

Police are investigating after a 'coronavirus protection screen was damaged ' at a Worcestershire chip shop .
The incident happened at The Tudor Rose Fish Bar in Alvechurch on Tuesday , August 11 , shortly after 4.30pm ( according to the video time stamp ) .
A man is said to have damaged the Perspex screen that protects staff and customers from spreading the deadly coronavirus .
Police have released CCTV footage of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident , following a report of criminal damage being caused .
The clear footage shows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and dark trousers , on the opposite side of the plastic screen , gesturing to staff .
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said : “ We would like to speak to the man in this CCTV footage , regarding a report of criminal damage .
“ The incident took place at The Tudor Rose Fish Bar , Alvechurch on Tuesday 11 August .
We believe this man has information that might help us with our investigations .
“ If you recognise him or have information about the incident please contact us on @ @ @ @ @ @

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Police are investigating after a 'coronavirus protection screen was damaged' at a Worcestershire chip shop.
The incident happened at The Tudor Rose Fish Bar in Alvechurch on Tuesday, August 11, shortly after 4.30pm (according to the video time stamp).
A man is said to have damaged the Perspex screen that protects staff and customers from spreading the deadly coronavirus.
Police have released CCTV footage of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident, following a report of criminal damage being caused.
The clear footage shows a man in a green camouflage t-shirt and dark trousers, on the opposite side of the plastic screen, gesturing to staff.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: “We would like to speak to the man in this CCTV footage, regarding a report of criminal damage.
“The incident took place at The Tudor Rose Fish Bar, Alvechurch on Tuesday 11 August. We believe this man has information that might help us with our investigations.
“If you recognise him or have information about the incident please contact us on 101 quoting reference 22/67702/20.”


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Marks and Spencer shares a Colin the Caterpillar recipe

Colin the Caterpillar is marking 30 years as a party favourite next week and to celebrate , Marks and Spencer has launched new Colin-themed products and shared a host of recipes with fans .
The chocolate sponge roll cake has long been a party must-have with mums but adults ca n't resist a slice of the yummy treat either .
This week saw fans of the sweet delight rave about the new Mini Colin Faces - a bag of mini versions of the cake ’ s white chocolate face for £2 , the Express writes .
And Marks and Spencer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a month of celebrating Colin 's birthday .
The retailer has even declared Wednesday August 26 to be National Colin the Caterpillar Day .
The company has posted several recipes on its website for fans to recreate at home including a Colin the Caterpillar trifle which includes slices of the original cake for a delicious dessert .
But if a quick and easy recipe is more up your street then M & S has a recipe that doesn ’ t require baking .
The cookie dough recipe includes chocolate brownie mini bites from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ white chocolate and the iconic Mini Colin Faces .
Marks and Spencer said : “ This deliciously moreish cookie dough is easy to prepare and perfect for parties , picnics and indulgent late-night snacks.
” Here ’ s the full recipe to try at home : Put the flour in a microwaveable bowl and heat on high for 60 seconds , stirring every 15 seconds to avoid burning , until an internal temperature of 75°C/167°F is achieved .
Allow to cool .
( This step is important as there ’ s a risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any potential bacteria . )
In a large bowl , cream together the butter , caster sugar and golden syrup until light and fluffy .
Sift in the cocoa powder and cooled flour , then whisk until combined .
Add the milk and continue to whisk until smooth .
The mixture should now resemble cookie dough .
Stir in milk and white chocolate chunks and ¼ of a jar of jazzie sprinkles .
Gently fold in the brownie pieces , being careful not to overmix as they ’ ll break down .
Scoop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with mini Colin faces before serving .
Chill in the fridge if you prefer a firmer cookie dough .

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Colin the Caterpillar is marking 30 years as a party favourite next week and to celebrate, Marks and Spencer has launched new Colin-themed products and shared a host of recipes with fans.
The chocolate sponge roll cake has long been a party must-have with mums but adults can't resist a slice of the yummy treat either.
This week saw fans of the sweet delight rave about the new Mini Colin Faces - a bag of mini versions of the cake’s white chocolate face for £2, the Express writes.
And Marks and Spencer is hoping shoppers will take part in a month of celebrating Colin's birthday.
The retailer has even declared Wednesday August 26 to be National Colin the Caterpillar Day.
The company has posted several recipes on its website for fans to recreate at home including a Colin the Caterpillar trifle which includes slices of the original cake for a delicious dessert.
But if a quick and easy recipe is more up your street then M&S has a recipe that doesn’t require baking.
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The cookie dough recipe includes chocolate brownie mini bites from the brand as well as milk and white chocolate and the iconic Mini Colin Faces.
Marks and Spencer said: “This deliciously moreish cookie dough is easy to prepare and perfect for parties, picnics and indulgent late-night snacks.”
Here’s the full recipe to try at home:
Colin cookie dough recipe
Ingredients
65g plain flour
55g butter
50g caster sugar
20g golden syrup
15g cocoa powder
1 tbsp milk
40g white chocolate chunks
40g milk chocolate chunks
40g chocolate brownie mini bites, cut into sixths
M&S jazzie sprinkles
Mini Colin faces
Method
Put the flour in a microwaveable bowl and heat on high for 60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds to avoid burning, until an internal temperature of 75°C/167°F is achieved. Allow to cool. (This step is important as there’s a risk of using raw flour, heating kills any potential bacteria.)
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, caster sugar and golden syrup until light and fluffy.
Sift in the cocoa powder and cooled flour, then whisk until combined.
Add the milk and continue to whisk until smooth. The mixture should now resemble cookie dough.
Follow Cathrina Hulse on social media Cathrina Hulse is a multi-media journalist for Birmingham Live and Birmingham Mail. Follow Cathrina here Follow Cathrina on Facebook here Read more of Cathrina's stories here Have you got a story? Email cathrina.hulse@reachplc.com or call 0121 234 5552
Stir in milk and white chocolate chunks and ¼ of a jar of jazzie sprinkles.
Gently fold in the brownie pieces, being careful not to overmix as they’ll break down.
Scoop the dough into a bowl and decorate with mini Colin faces before serving.
Chill in the fridge if you prefer a firmer cookie dough.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Armed robber who threatened to stab woman thwarted by mystery Good Samaritan

An armed thug who threatened a young woman and snatched her car keys had his robbery attempt thwarted when a mysterious Good Samaritan intervened .
Lee Asbury grabbed the woman , threatened to stab her and grabbed her keys as she returned to her Hyundai Getz in Farnborough Road , Castle Vale , on the evening of July 21 this year .
He tried to push her out of the way , but as the woman in her 20s screamed , a man - who has still not been identified - went over to intervene and Asbury returned her keys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ witness had tracked Asbury to a nearby street and watched as he discarded three knives in a bush .
He was arrested and all the items were recovered .
The 31-year-old , of no fixed address , pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a knife and was jailed for four years at Birmingham Crown Court today ( August 20 ) .
DC Claire Smith , from force CID , said : `` The woman was understandably left shaken by the ordeal , but fortunately the good samaritan stepped in .
We still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but his intervention was vital .
`` We were able to arrest Asbury in under an hour and secured strong evidence against him .
It led to his guilty plea and being put behind bars . ''

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An armed thug who threatened a young woman and snatched her car keys had his robbery attempt thwarted when a mysterious Good Samaritan intervened.
Lee Asbury grabbed the woman, threatened to stab her and grabbed her keys as she returned to her Hyundai Getz in Farnborough Road, Castle Vale, on the evening of July 21 this year.
He tried to push her out of the way, but as the woman in her 20s screamed, a man - who has still not been identified - went over to intervene and Asbury returned her keys.
Police officers attended, where another witness had tracked Asbury to a nearby street and watched as he discarded three knives in a bush.
He was arrested and all the items were recovered.
The 31-year-old, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a knife and was jailed for four years at Birmingham Crown Court today (August 20).
DC Claire Smith, from force CID, said: "The woman was understandably left shaken by the ordeal, but fortunately the good samaritan stepped in. We still don't know who he was, but his intervention was vital.
"We were able to arrest Asbury in under an hour and secured strong evidence against him. It led to his guilty plea and being put behind bars."


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Footage shows police storm killer's house after he murdered mum and stepdad

This is the moment cops arrested a knife-obsessed murderer who brutally stabbed his mum and stepdad more than 50 times at their Oldbury home .
Dramatic body-worn footage shows officers from West Midlands Police forcing entry into Anmol Chana 's address in Smethwick after the deaths of his mum , Jasbir Kaur , and stepdad Rupinder Bassan .
Mrs Kaur , 52 , and Mr Bassan , 51 , were found dead at their home in Moat Road at around 4am on Tuesday , February 25 , after concerns were raised for their welfare .
Jasbir 's daughter had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since Sunday afternoon having last seen her and her step-father the previous evening .
She 'd sent a number of messages throughout the day and popped to their home but noticed Mr Bassan 's car was not there so assumed they were out .
The following day she called police and said she was concerned having still not been able to get in touch .
She 'd also tried her brother , Chana 's home in Smethwick , but he was not in either .
Officers attended and carried out various checks including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answered .
As enquires continued police called Mr Bassan 's workplace and , upon hearing that he had not attended work , officers went back to their home and forced entry .
Tragically they found Mrs Kaur and Mr Bassan dead , they had both been stabbed multiple times .
Officers launched a murder investigation and quickly turned their attention towards Chana .
CCTV enquires showed that he had taken his step-father 's car - a Toyota Aygo - during the early hours of Sunday morning ( February 23 ) .
Officers found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a nasty bite on his thumb , sat drinking and playing pool in a local pub and deposited money into his bank account , which he 'd stolen the killing .
He had also bought a plane ticket and dumped the car .
But the 26-year-old was arrested at his home in Hamilton Road , Smethwick on Tuesday , February 25 , on suspicion of the murder of his mother and step-father .
You can watch the clip above .
A search of his home uncovered the keys to the Toyota , his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ style knife , and a sheath covered in blood were found on his bed .
He was found guilty of the murders following a nine day trial at Birmingham Crown Court .
He 'll be sentenced tomorrow ( August 21 ) .
Detective Inspector Hannah Whitehouse , from out homicide team , said : `` Chana carried out a despicable crime against his family in their own home which should have been a place of safety .
`` Our investigation revealed that Chana was fanatical about knives and had previously expressed a desire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we do not know what led him to carry out such a vicious and sickening attack .
`` My thoughts remain with the couple 's wider family and friends .
I ca n't imagine how they are feeling ; the shock and pain that his actions have caused will stay with them forever .
`` I hope the guilty verdict today provides them with some comfort .
`` Knife crime is devastating and this case has been a harsh reminder of the tragic consequences . ''
The couple 's daughter added this tribute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loving people I 've ever known .
My mum went through hell and kept going to look after me and my brother .
She 's the toughest woman I know .
My dad was the perfect match for her .
He was that person who was able to give my mum the space and warmth to relax and be loved in the way we all deserve .
`` I am sad that their lives were ended so quickly without a second thought by a person whom they both loved dearly .
Their lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did he take their lives , but he has tried to defame them in court to protect himself .
I am angry at him for trying to use such tactics against their memory and against the person who always did her best for us .
`` I have painful daily reminders that I wo n't have their guidance through my adult life .
The only comfort I have from any of this is that at least my parents are at peace together .
Two beautiful souls eternally together .
And that I 'll @ @ @ @ @

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This is the moment cops arrested a knife-obsessed murderer who brutally stabbed his mum and stepdad more than 50 times at their Oldbury home.
Dramatic body-worn footage shows officers from West Midlands Police forcing entry into Anmol Chana's address in Smethwick after the deaths of his mum, Jasbir Kaur, and stepdad Rupinder Bassan.
Mrs Kaur, 52, and Mr Bassan, 51, were found dead at their home in Moat Road at around 4am on Tuesday, February 25, after concerns were raised for their welfare.
Jasbir's daughter had been trying to get hold of her mother since Sunday afternoon having last seen her and her step-father the previous evening.
She'd sent a number of messages throughout the day and popped to their home but noticed Mr Bassan's car was not there so assumed they were out.
The following day she called police and said she was concerned having still not been able to get in touch.
She'd also tried her brother, Chana's home in Smethwick, but he was not in either.
Officers attended and carried out various checks including trying the neighbouring properties but no one answered.
As enquires continued police called Mr Bassan's workplace and, upon hearing that he had not attended work, officers went back to their home and forced entry.
(Image: WMP)
Tragically they found Mrs Kaur and Mr Bassan dead, they had both been stabbed multiple times.
Officers launched a murder investigation and quickly turned their attention towards Chana.
CCTV enquires showed that he had taken his step-father's car - a Toyota Aygo - during the early hours of Sunday morning (February 23).
Officers found that Chana had received hospital treatment for a nasty bite on his thumb, sat drinking and playing pool in a local pub and deposited money into his bank account, which he'd stolen the killing.
He had also bought a plane ticket and dumped the car.
But the 26-year-old was arrested at his home in Hamilton Road, Smethwick on Tuesday, February 25, on suspicion of the murder of his mother and step-father. You can watch the clip above.
A search of his home uncovered the keys to the Toyota, his passport with travel details and a combat style knife, and a sheath covered in blood were found on his bed.
He was found guilty of the murders following a nine day trial at Birmingham Crown Court. He'll be sentenced tomorrow (August 21).
Detective Inspector Hannah Whitehouse, from out homicide team, said: "Chana carried out a despicable crime against his family in their own home which should have been a place of safety.
"Our investigation revealed that Chana was fanatical about knives and had previously expressed a desire to kill his mother.
"Sadly we do not know what led him to carry out such a vicious and sickening attack.
"My thoughts remain with the couple's wider family and friends. I can't imagine how they are feeling; the shock and pain that his actions have caused will stay with them forever.
"I hope the guilty verdict today provides them with some comfort.
"Knife crime is devastating and this case has been a harsh reminder of the tragic consequences."
The couple's daughter added this tribute: "My parents were the most loving people I've ever known. My mum went through hell and kept going to look after me and my brother. She's the toughest woman I know. My dad was the perfect match for her. He was that person who was able to give my mum the space and warmth to relax and be loved in the way we all deserve.
"I am sad that their lives were ended so quickly without a second thought by a person whom they both loved dearly. Their lives together had just started. Not only did he take their lives, but he has tried to defame them in court to protect himself. I am angry at him for trying to use such tactics against their memory and against the person who always did her best for us.
"I have painful daily reminders that I won't have their guidance through my adult life. The only comfort I have from any of this is that at least my parents are at peace together. Two beautiful souls eternally together. And that I'll always love them."


birminghammail--2020-08-20--What Harding said as defender completes Birmingham City transfer

The Leicester born defender had been with Blues since 2012 , and he made over 50 senior appearances in that time .
Harding was given his debut in the first-team under Harry Redknapp , in the 5-1 hammering of Crawley Town in the EFL Cup , but after Redknapp ’ s sacking Harding wasn ’ t utilised by Steve Cotterill .
The versatile defender was , though , recalled almost immediately by Garry Monk upon his appointment and he played a key role in helping the club survive the drop in 2018 - he was awarded the young player of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impressive breakthrough .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Blues newsletter Harding played significant parts in the following season under Monk and then more recently under Pep Clotet , both at right-back and at centre half , but he has been permitted a move to the newly promoted Millers , for whom he has been pleased to sign .
“ I ’ m buzzing to be a Miller , I feel like one of the lads already , it ’ s a family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be here .
The manager and his staff have been really nice and it was quite easy for me .
I didn ’ t have a big decision to make , it just felt right , ” Harding told www.themillers.co.uk .
“ I had a zoom call with the gaffer and his coaching staff and it was a really nice chat .
They made me feel welcome and comfortable , that was one of the main things for me really .
“ I ’ m fast , athletic , strong and like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I ’ m quite attack-minded , but I also like to be defensively sound as well .
“ I ’ ve got a decent long-throw and [ Rotherham boss ] Paul Warne did mention it , I ’ ll be practicing it more now I know he wants it .
All the staff have said it will be tough ( in pre-season ) , that ’ s what I ’ m here for now .
”

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Wes Harding has left Birmingham City for Championship rivals Rotherham United.
The Leicester born defender had been with Blues since 2012, and he made over 50 senior appearances in that time.
Harding was given his debut in the first-team under Harry Redknapp, in the 5-1 hammering of Crawley Town in the EFL Cup, but after Redknapp’s sacking Harding wasn’t utilised by Steve Cotterill.
The versatile defender was, though, recalled almost immediately by Garry Monk upon his appointment and he played a key role in helping the club survive the drop in 2018 - he was awarded the young player of the season that year, after his impressive breakthrough.
Make sure you don't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Blues newsletter
Harding played significant parts in the following season under Monk and then more recently under Pep Clotet, both at right-back and at centre half, but he has been permitted a move to the newly promoted Millers, for whom he has been pleased to sign.
“I’m buzzing to be a Miller, I feel like one of the lads already, it’s a family club and I’m just happy to be here. The manager and his staff have been really nice and it was quite easy for me. I didn’t have a big decision to make, it just felt right,” Harding told www.themillers.co.uk.
“I had a zoom call with the gaffer and his coaching staff and it was a really nice chat. They made me feel welcome and comfortable, that was one of the main things for me really.
“I’m fast, athletic, strong and like to get up and down the pitch. I’m quite attack-minded, but I also like to be defensively sound as well.
“I’ve got a decent long-throw and [Rotherham boss] Paul Warne did mention it, I’ll be practicing it more now I know he wants it. All the staff have said it will be tough (in pre-season), that’s what I’m here for now.”


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Birmingham could be in local lockdown 'within days' - this is what happens next

Birmingham is in a race against time to halt a rise in coronavirus cases and the 'devastating ' local lockdown that could follow , city leaders have warned today .
The battle is on to turn the tide as infections continue to cluster across the city .
The city will feature on the Government 's national watch list ( published Friday ) and will be offered 'enhanced support ' as a result - that 's a step below 'local lockdown ' , and puts the city on warning of further action .
The message could not be more clear - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up , a local lockdown could be upon us within days , and it would last for weeks .
`` We are at a knife-edge moment , '' said public health director Dr Justin Varney .
`` The next five to ten days are crucial . ''
The city currently has the 13th highest infection rate in the country , but most of the places above it are already in partial lockdown - including Greater Manchester , Blackburn with Darwen , Burnley , Hyndburn , Pendleton , Rossendale , Bradford , Kirklees and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oldham .
Residents in Preston have been banned by the Government from gathering in each other ’ s homes and gardens .
What measures will follow if the city joins the national watch list ?
Being on the national watch list , compiled weekly by the minister with Public Health England , will likely mean new restrictions and actions can follow .
Sandwell was on the list after surges in cases following workplace outbreaks - it introduced voluntary measures and ramped up testing in response .
Testing and tracing will be increased , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to root out more cases and trace their contacts .
A doorstep testing service is also going to be piloted .
Police are also expected to play a bigger role in cracking down on those flouting the rules .
More enforcement is also likely to follow against people not wearing masks and against bars and restaurants who fail to collect contact details .
Workers will also be reminded to continue to work 'virtually ' as much as possible and avoid unnecessary contact with others .
Critically , public health messages in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be encouraged to 'whistleblow ' on businesses not following guidance .
There is no suggestion that schools , colleges and universities - due to restart in a fortnight - would be affected .
A full outline of the measures involved are likely to be released over the next 24 hours , clarifying what happens next .
Talks with Health Secretary Matt Hancock took place this morning to outline the situation in the city , led by city leader Ian Ward and chief executive Chris Naylor .
Said Dr Varney , who provided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be on that national list and will go on as an area of 'enhanced support ' - that is not the level that Leicester and Greater Manchester are in ( subject to legally enforced restrictive lockdown ) , but the level below that - think Northamptonshire , Blackburn , areas like that , certainly over the next week . ''
`` We will be providing additional guidance over the weekend ( about what that means ) .
`` We will also be providing additional messages around advising people to reduce the numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We are also stepping up advice to businesses . ''
Dr Varney was addressing a webinar this afternoon organised by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce for its members to address concerns about rising infection rates and the potential impact of a local lockdown .
You can follow our live blog here He warned : `` Birmingham has to stand up and stand together on this .
What we do in the next seven days will decide if we go into lockdown or not .
`` If we do it will be for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that will be devastating . ''
He also hinted that even if the city did not go into lockdown now , the spectre of surges in cases triggering restrictions would be ever present in the months ahead - until a vaccine is found .
`` We are likely to see a world in which we see these spikes come and we go into this situation for two or three weeks , then we come out again , and then back into it again - it will be this world of in and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a vaccination , '' he said .
Mayor Andy Street has also been in contact with the Health Secretary about the situation across the region , with Birmingham the current biggest cause of concern .
He said today : `` With the right support and measures in place , Birmingham will be able to curb this rise and avoid any stricter lockdown measures being imposed as we have seen in Leicester and Greater Manchester .
`` I have been in touch with the Health Secretary Matt Hancock to update him on the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The mayor added : `` It is becoming clear that some people ’ s responsibility is now starting to fray at the edges .
“ I would urge everyone in Birmingham and across the wider West Midlands , particular the younger and middle-aged groups where we know the virus is now spreading , to please not let your resolve drop .
The only way we will beat this virus and drive it out of the region is by every individual playing their part and following the guidelines .
“ Whether you are in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with friends in a restaurant or pub , please do not forget the basics of social distancing , hand washing , and wearing a face covering where appropriate .
“ I would also urge anyone who thinks they have symptoms to get tested , and to make sure all contacts are handed over to tracers if your test comes back positive .
“ Finally , it is important to stress the West Midlands is NOT in a similar situation to Greater Manchester and facing the threat of a region-wide lockdown .
`` While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of infections than we would like , they are not rising exponentially nor at the level seen in the north when stricter lockdown measures were introduced .
Public health teams are doing a brilliant job working around the clock to keep the levels of infection stable and under control.
” Neighbouring Sandwell has previously featured on the list , and was supported to introduce voluntary restrictions to help tackle a rise in infections .
The rate has since fluctuated and it too remains an area of concern .
What would a local lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business leaders this afternoon , Dr Varney outlined what was happening , and why , and what a local lockdown could mean .
The infection rate in the city is currently hovering around 30 cases per 100,000 people in the city over a week - the equivalent of around 320 cases a week .
It is currently the 13th highest rate in the country - but most of those above it are already in local lockdown .
New data from Public Health England suggests the rate has dropped to 25.8 cases per 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this could be explained by reporting delays .
The crucial figures to watch , he said , would be out early next week .
The rhetoric from local leaders suggests the issue is not being taken lightly .
Dr Varney told the meeting , hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce , that the whole area was `` nervous '' and anxiously watching infection rates spike across Birmingham and neighbouring areas .
He said he met council leaders from across the region today and said : `` All of us are looking at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and others do n't ; we are also watching carefully as numbers have been rising and fluctuating in Sandwell , and we see some increases on the border areas , around Solihull , Warwickshire .
`` The whole region is a little bit nervous and we are all upping the ante and working together on this . ''
He said what happens next `` will depend on the data picture . ''
`` There are a lot of ifs and buts , but the next seven days are crucial . ''
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( in specific hotspots ) we might have a different approach , but if it continues as it has across the whole city we would look more broadly at the whole area . ''
• Restrictions on travelling in or out of the city for non essential travel , likely to be done on a voluntary basis initially but then enforced if infection rates continue .
• Enforcement against businesses not sticking to guidance • Closures or restrictions on pubs , restaurants or shops How much notice would the city get about a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yorkshire and Lancashire were alerted they were going into local lockdown late one Friday night two weeks ago , via a Twitter message from Matt Hancock .
He announced emergency measures were being introduced to reduce the risk of community transmission , particularly between households .
People were told not to meet up with other households at home as part of new lockdown restrictions .
While the pattern of infection is similar between the areas - Birmingham too is seeing lots of clusters linked to households - Dr Varney said that sudden , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Birmingham .
`` One of the advantages we have in working with government now is we are given more headspace about what might happen. ''
Leicester , for example , did not have that notice as the data flow was not good enough .
( The city 's infection rates did not become apparent for days , so lockdown was imposed very quickly when the surge in cases became evident ) .
`` My hope is we will get at least three to four days run-in to start to work with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses .
`` I am hoping we do n't get a decision on a Saturday night or , say , the Friday before Bank Holiday , but it really depends on what we all do now .
`` Birmingham has to stand up and stand together on this .
`` If we all step up , if businesses get risk assessments in place , put crowd and queue management in place , we all hand wash , wear masks , and socially distance , all those simple things that make a difference then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defer it for longer .
He said that looking at other areas that have faced lockdowns `` I think it is unlikely to be less than three weeks if we do get to that restriction lockdown phase .
`` I know that would be devastating for business - the last thing our retail sector and hospitality sector needs is three weeks of people not shopping and spending money .
`` It 's what we do now over the next seven to ten days that buys us time to avoid that kind of restrictive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the impact of the disease on people 's lives and health but also potentially on their livelihoods and the economy of the city . ''

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Birmingham is in a race against time to halt a rise in coronavirus cases and the 'devastating' local lockdown that could follow, city leaders have warned today.
The battle is on to turn the tide as infections continue to cluster across the city.
The city will feature on the Government's national watch list (published Friday) and will be offered 'enhanced support' as a result - that's a step below 'local lockdown', and puts the city on warning of further action.
The message could not be more clear - if the infection rate continues to go up, a local lockdown could be upon us within days, and it would last for weeks.
"We are at a knife-edge moment," said public health director Dr Justin Varney.
"The next five to ten days are crucial."
(Image: AP)
The city currently has the 13th highest infection rate in the country, but most of the places above it are already in partial lockdown - including Greater Manchester, Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendleton, Rossendale, Bradford, Kirklees and Calderdale. Cases have also surged in Oldham.
Residents in Preston have been banned by the Government from gathering in each other’s homes and gardens.
What measures will follow if the city joins the national watch list?
Being on the national watch list, compiled weekly by the minister with Public Health England, will likely mean new restrictions and actions can follow. Sandwell was on the list after surges in cases following workplace outbreaks - it introduced voluntary measures and ramped up testing in response.
Possible measures for Birmingham include:
restricting households meeting together
renewed shielding for vulnerable people
continued ban on visiting to care homes
Testing and tracing will be increased, likely with extra testing locations, to try to root out more cases and trace their contacts. A doorstep testing service is also going to be piloted.
Police are also expected to play a bigger role in cracking down on those flouting the rules.
More enforcement is also likely to follow against people not wearing masks and against bars and restaurants who fail to collect contact details.
Workers will also be reminded to continue to work 'virtually' as much as possible and avoid unnecessary contact with others.
(Image: West Midlands Police)
Critically, public health messages in the community will be increased, while people will be encouraged to 'whistleblow' on businesses not following guidance.
There is no suggestion that schools, colleges and universities - due to restart in a fortnight - would be affected.
A full outline of the measures involved are likely to be released over the next 24 hours, clarifying what happens next.
Talks with Health Secretary Matt Hancock took place this morning to outline the situation in the city, led by city leader Ian Ward and chief executive Chris Naylor.
Said Dr Varney, who provided the briefing: "I expect we will be on that national list and will go on as an area of 'enhanced support' - that is not the level that Leicester and Greater Manchester are in (subject to legally enforced restrictive lockdown), but the level below that - think Northamptonshire, Blackburn, areas like that, certainly over the next week."
"We will be providing additional guidance over the weekend (about what that means).
"We will also be providing additional messages around advising people to reduce the numbers when visiting each other's houses.
"We are also stepping up advice to businesses."
Dr Varney was addressing a webinar this afternoon organised by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce for its members to address concerns about rising infection rates and the potential impact of a local lockdown.
You can follow our live blog here
He warned: "Birmingham has to stand up and stand together on this. What we do in the next seven days will decide if we go into lockdown or not.
"If we do it will be for at least two or three weeks, and that will be devastating."
He also hinted that even if the city did not go into lockdown now, the spectre of surges in cases triggering restrictions would be ever present in the months ahead - until a vaccine is found.
"We are likely to see a world in which we see these spikes come and we go into this situation for two or three weeks, then we come out again, and then back into it again - it will be this world of in and out of lockdown really until we get a vaccination," he said.
Mayor Andy Street has also been in contact with the Health Secretary about the situation across the region, with Birmingham the current biggest cause of concern.
He said today: "With the right support and measures in place, Birmingham will be able to curb this rise and avoid any stricter lockdown measures being imposed as we have seen in Leicester and Greater Manchester.
"I have been in touch with the Health Secretary Matt Hancock to update him on the situation on the ground in Birmingham."
The mayor added: "It is becoming clear that some people’s responsibility is now starting to fray at the edges.
“I would urge everyone in Birmingham and across the wider West Midlands, particular the younger and middle-aged groups where we know the virus is now spreading, to please not let your resolve drop. The only way we will beat this virus and drive it out of the region is by every individual playing their part and following the guidelines.
“Whether you are in work, out shopping, or meeting with friends in a restaurant or pub, please do not forget the basics of social distancing, hand washing, and wearing a face covering where appropriate.
“I would also urge anyone who thinks they have symptoms to get tested, and to make sure all contacts are handed over to tracers if your test comes back positive.
“Finally, it is important to stress the West Midlands is NOT in a similar situation to Greater Manchester and facing the threat of a region-wide lockdown.
"While some of our boroughs have higher rate of infections than we would like, they are not rising exponentially nor at the level seen in the north when stricter lockdown measures were introduced. Public health teams are doing a brilliant job working around the clock to keep the levels of infection stable and under control.”
The watch list is unveiled tomorrow.
Neighbouring Sandwell has previously featured on the list, and was supported to introduce voluntary restrictions to help tackle a rise in infections. The rate has since fluctuated and it too remains an area of concern.
What would a local lockdown look like?
Addressing a group of business leaders this afternoon, Dr Varney outlined what was happening, and why, and what a local lockdown could mean.
The infection rate in the city is currently hovering around 30 cases per 100,000 people in the city over a week - the equivalent of around 320 cases a week.
It is currently the 13th highest rate in the country - but most of those above it are already in local lockdown.
New data from Public Health England suggests the rate has dropped to 25.8 cases per 100,000 people - however, Dr Varney said this could be explained by reporting delays. The crucial figures to watch, he said, would be out early next week.
The rhetoric from local leaders suggests the issue is not being taken lightly.
Dr Varney told the meeting, hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, that the whole area was "nervous" and anxiously watching infection rates spike across Birmingham and neighbouring areas.
He said he met council leaders from across the region today and said: "All of us are looking at what happens if Birmingham is locked down and others don't; we are also watching carefully as numbers have been rising and fluctuating in Sandwell, and we see some increases on the border areas, around Solihull, Warwickshire.
"The whole region is a little bit nervous and we are all upping the ante and working together on this."
He said what happens next "will depend on the data picture."
"There are a lot of ifs and buts, but the next seven days are crucial."
He said: "If we see geographical clustering (in specific hotspots) we might have a different approach, but if it continues as it has across the whole city we would look more broadly at the whole area."
Measures could include:
Restrictions on travelling in or out of the city for non essential travel, likely to be done on a voluntary basis initially but then enforced if infection rates continue.
Enforcement against businesses not sticking to guidance
Closures or restrictions on pubs, restaurants or shops
How much notice would the city get about a lockdown?
Greater Manchester and parts of Yorkshire and Lancashire were alerted they were going into local lockdown late one Friday night two weeks ago, via a Twitter message from Matt Hancock.
He announced emergency measures were being introduced to reduce the risk of community transmission, particularly between households. People were told not to meet up with other households at home as part of new lockdown restrictions.
While the pattern of infection is similar between the areas - Birmingham too is seeing lots of clusters linked to households - Dr Varney said that sudden, unexpected announcement was not likely to happen in Birmingham.
"One of the advantages we have in working with government now is we are given more headspace about what might happen.
" Leicester, for example, did not have that notice as the data flow was not good enough. (The city's infection rates did not become apparent for days, so lockdown was imposed very quickly when the surge in cases became evident).
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
"My hope is we will get at least three to four days run-in to start to work with the public to prepare them and to prepare businesses.
"I am hoping we don't get a decision on a Saturday night or, say, the Friday before Bank Holiday, but it really depends on what we all do now.
"Birmingham has to stand up and stand together on this.
"If we all step up, if businesses get risk assessments in place, put crowd and queue management in place, we all hand wash, wear masks, and socially distance, all those simple things that make a difference then we can avoid lockdown or at least defer it for longer.
He said that looking at other areas that have faced lockdowns "I think it is unlikely to be less than three weeks if we do get to that restriction lockdown phase.
"I know that would be devastating for business - the last thing our retail sector and hospitality sector needs is three weeks of people not shopping and spending money.
"It's what we do now over the next seven to ten days that buys us time to avoid that kind of restrictive lockdown - because it will be devastating because of the impact of the disease on people's lives and health but also potentially on their livelihoods and the economy of the city."


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Blues make four key appointments ahead of new season

Aitor Karanka has assembled his back-room staff after taking the manager ’ s job at Birmingham City .
The Spaniard , preparing Blues for the new campaign , has added to his own team ahead of the big kick off next month .
Joining Karanka at Wast Hills are David Karanka ( Aitor ’ s younger brother ) , as his assistant , Juanjo Vila as Head of Analysis , Nelson Jardim as another assistant boss and Carlos Pena as Assistant Head of Analysis .
Craig Gardner , who worked alongside Pep Clotet after hanging his boots up last season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scott Bevan has been promoted from the under 23s to become the club ’ s new first team goalkeeping coach .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Blues newsletter Sports scientist Elliott Woolmer , like Gardner , is also an existing member of the team who is kept on .
The new team replace James Beattie , Daryl Flahavan and Sean Rush , who all departed Blues earlier this month following the appointment of Karanka - the former pair have rejoined Garry Monk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Karanka at Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough , while David Karanka was also in the coaching set-up at the City Ground .
Vila is a man with experience in abundance ; the Spaniard has worked all over Europe , including at La Liga giants Valencia .
Jardim , meanwhile , has previous experience of working in English football ; he has previously enjoyed spells at Leicester and , more recently , Swansea City where he worked under former Blues player Graham Potter , among others .
With these appointments , Karanka ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being pieced together , and with the back-room staff secured , the club ’ s planned recruitment drive will become an outright priority .

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Aitor Karanka has assembled his back-room staff after taking the manager’s job at Birmingham City.
The Spaniard, preparing Blues for the new campaign, has added to his own team ahead of the big kick off next month.
Joining Karanka at Wast Hills are David Karanka (Aitor’s younger brother), as his assistant, Juanjo Vila as Head of Analysis, Nelson Jardim as another assistant boss and Carlos Pena as Assistant Head of Analysis.
Craig Gardner, who worked alongside Pep Clotet after hanging his boots up last season, has been retained by Karanka while Scott Bevan has been promoted from the under 23s to become the club’s new first team goalkeeping coach.
Make sure you don't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Blues newsletter
Sports scientist Elliott Woolmer, like Gardner, is also an existing member of the team who is kept on.
The new team replace James Beattie, Daryl Flahavan and Sean Rush, who all departed Blues earlier this month following the appointment of Karanka - the former pair have rejoined Garry Monk at Sheffield Wednesday.
Vila worked previously with Karanka at Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough, while David Karanka was also in the coaching set-up at the City Ground.
Vila is a man with experience in abundance; the Spaniard has worked all over Europe, including at La Liga giants Valencia.
Jardim, meanwhile, has previous experience of working in English football; he has previously enjoyed spells at Leicester and, more recently, Swansea City where he worked under former Blues player Graham Potter, among others.
With these appointments, Karanka’s Blues jigsaw is slowly showing signs of being pieced together, and with the back-room staff secured, the club’s planned recruitment drive will become an outright priority.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Three countries added to UK quarantine list from 4am Saturday

Travellers arriving in the UK after 4am on Saturday from Croatia , Austria and Trinidad and Tobago will have to quarantine for 14 days , Grant Shapps said .
Passengers arriving in the UK from Portugal will not have to self-isolate after it was added to the travel corridor list , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said .
Setting out the changes to countries included on the travel corridor list , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said a range of factors were taken into account when the Joint Biosecurity Centre and ministers make their assessments .
They include : estimated prevalence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and rate of change in the incidence of confirmed positive cases ; the extent of testing in a country , the testing regime and test positivity ; the extent to which cases can be accounted for by a contained outbreak as opposed to more general transmission in the community ; government actions and `` other relevant epidemiological information '' .
Croatia , Austria and Trinidad & Tobago have been removed from the air corridor list , meaning people arriving in the UK after 4am on Saturday will have to quarantine , but Portugal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who had to quarantine for 14 days after a holiday in Spain , said : `` As with all air bridge countries , please be aware that things can change quickly .
`` Only travel if you are content to unexpectedly 14-day quarantine if required ( I speak from experience ! )
'' Travellers from Portugal to Scotland will be exempt from quarantine requirements from Saturday , Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said .
But arrivals from Austria , Croatia , Switzerland and Trinidad and Tobago will have to self-isolate for 14 days .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the number of cases of coronavirus '' meant the restrictions would be put in place from 4am on Saturday .
`` We can not emphasise enough that if people choose to travel abroad , they must be aware that quarantine requirements may change while they are away , '' he said .
`` The same can be said for the rules within the country or territory people are travelling to .
`` If people do travel from any country that is not exempt from the requirements , they will be required to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ please check the Scottish Government website for more information on what this means . ''
He added : `` As I have said previously , we do not make these decisions lightly , but suppressing the virus and protecting public health is vital . ''

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Travellers arriving in the UK after 4am on Saturday from Croatia, Austria and Trinidad and Tobago will have to quarantine for 14 days, Grant Shapps said.
Passengers arriving in the UK from Portugal will not have to self-isolate after it was added to the travel corridor list, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said.
Setting out the changes to countries included on the travel corridor list, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said a range of factors were taken into account when the Joint Biosecurity Centre and ministers make their assessments.
They include: estimated prevalence of Covid-19 in a country; the level and rate of change in the incidence of confirmed positive cases; the extent of testing in a country, the testing regime and test positivity; the extent to which cases can be accounted for by a contained outbreak as opposed to more general transmission in the community; government actions and "other relevant epidemiological information".
(Image: Getty Images)
Croatia, Austria and Trinidad & Tobago have been removed from the air corridor list, meaning people arriving in the UK after 4am on Saturday will have to quarantine, but Portugal has been added.
Mr Shapps, who had to quarantine for 14 days after a holiday in Spain, said: "As with all air bridge countries, please be aware that things can change quickly.
"Only travel if you are content to unexpectedly 14-day quarantine if required (I speak from experience!)"
Travellers from Portugal to Scotland will be exempt from quarantine requirements from Saturday, Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said.
But arrivals from Austria, Croatia, Switzerland and Trinidad and Tobago will have to self-isolate for 14 days.
Mr Yousaf said a "significant rise in the number of cases of coronavirus" meant the restrictions would be put in place from 4am on Saturday.
"We cannot emphasise enough that if people choose to travel abroad, they must be aware that quarantine requirements may change while they are away," he said.
"The same can be said for the rules within the country or territory people are travelling to.
"If people do travel from any country that is not exempt from the requirements, they will be required to quarantine for 14 days on return, please check the Scottish Government website for more information on what this means."
He added: "As I have said previously, we do not make these decisions lightly, but suppressing the virus and protecting public health is vital."


birminghammail--2020-08-20--The sickening texts killer sent before murdering mum and stepdad

A knife-obsessed killer who fantasised about attacking his mother with burning oil sent a string of sick texts before slaying her and his stepdad at their Oldbury home .
Birmingham Crown Court heard that Anmol Chana sent dozens of warped messages to his biological dad detailing ways he would hurt his mum , Jasbir Kaur , and stepdad Rupinder Bassan .
The couple , aged 52 and 51 , were stabbed more than 40 times at their address in Moat Road by the 26-year-old in February 2020 .
During the two-week trial at Birmingham Crown Court jurors were told that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - including an escort - before heading to the pub to play pool .
He also plotted to flee the UK , booking a plane ticket to Italy via Turkey , and writing himself a reminder list including entries to `` rob a Lidl '' and `` buy a new knife '' .
Prosecution barrister Jason Pitter QC said : `` He visited a pub where he had a drink and calmly played pool knowing his mother and her husband must have been dead .
`` We know he was making plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ticket to Italy via Turkey .
`` There was a reminder on his phone to buy another knife , but fortunately this was not put in effect . ''
Chana was also said to have had a `` fascination with knives '' since the age of 16 .
And in the run up to the killings , the convicted murderer sent texts detailing ways in which he would have liked to have killed his mother - including references to blades .
One text from 2017 reads : `` Man , I want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her throat , ( put ) her head in a chip pan . ''
While another said : `` I could just hurt her and Kiran just to prove to her nothing can save them from where they are going .
`` Even though she thinks she 's safe from the consequences just because she thinks the police can protect her from me . ''
A third revealed : `` She 's asking for trouble big time bro . ''
Others also outlined that 'Jasbir is a dead bitch ' and he 'felt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , more complex texts , detailed their troubled relationship Chana had with his mother .
A fourth revealed : `` Just like she was s*** when I was a kid she is exactly the same s*** now only now she is on her f****** high horse . ''
And a fifth reads : `` You know she does n't want me to enjoy my life , trying everything she can to f*** my life up . ''
The crown court heard that despite his behaviour Jasbir and Rupinder wanted to `` look after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Road .
After being arrested at his home in Hamilton Road , Smethwick , Chana denied any part in the killings during interview , telling officers `` only God will judge '' .
But following a nine-day trial , prosecutors told the court that Chana was 'incapable at times of giving a straight account ' .
Mr Pitter QC added : `` He was a man who would say anything if it suited his account .
`` He was incapable at times of giving a straight account . ''
He was found guilty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be sentenced on Friday .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Jordan Coussins, Carl Jackson)

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A knife-obsessed killer who fantasised about attacking his mother with burning oil sent a string of sick texts before slaying her and his stepdad at their Oldbury home.
Birmingham Crown Court heard that Anmol Chana sent dozens of warped messages to his biological dad detailing ways he would hurt his mum, Jasbir Kaur, and stepdad Rupinder Bassan.
The couple, aged 52 and 51, were stabbed more than 40 times at their address in Moat Road by the 26-year-old in February 2020.
During the two-week trial at Birmingham Crown Court jurors were told that after the killing Chana met several women - including an escort - before heading to the pub to play pool.
He also plotted to flee the UK, booking a plane ticket to Italy via Turkey, and writing himself a reminder list including entries to "rob a Lidl" and "buy a new knife".
Prosecution barrister Jason Pitter QC said: "He visited a pub where he had a drink and calmly played pool knowing his mother and her husband must have been dead.
"We know he was making plans to leave the country and purchased a plane ticket to Italy via Turkey.
(Image: Birmingham Live)
"There was a reminder on his phone to buy another knife, but fortunately this was not put in effect."
Chana was also said to have had a "fascination with knives" since the age of 16.
And in the run up to the killings, the convicted murderer sent texts detailing ways in which he would have liked to have killed his mother - including references to blades.
One text from 2017 reads: "Man, I want to knife her or pour boiling oil down her throat, (put) her head in a chip pan."
While another said: "I could just hurt her and Kiran just to prove to her nothing can save them from where they are going.
"Even though she thinks she's safe from the consequences just because she thinks the police can protect her from me."
A third revealed: "She's asking for trouble big time bro."
Others also outlined that 'Jasbir is a dead bitch' and he 'felt like stabbing Jasbir'.
But other, more complex texts, detailed their troubled relationship Chana had with his mother.
A fourth revealed: "Just like she was s*** when I was a kid she is exactly the same s*** now only now she is on her f****** high horse."
And a fifth reads: "You know she doesn't want me to enjoy my life, trying everything she can to f*** my life up."
The crown court heard that despite his behaviour Jasbir and Rupinder wanted to "look after him" at their home in Moat Road.
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After being arrested at his home in Hamilton Road, Smethwick, Chana denied any part in the killings during interview, telling officers "only God will judge".
But following a nine-day trial, prosecutors told the court that Chana was 'incapable at times of giving a straight account'.
Mr Pitter QC added: "He was a man who would say anything if it suited his account.
"He was incapable at times of giving a straight account."
He was found guilty of the couples murder on Thursday and will be sentenced on Friday.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Villa tipped to launch Watkins bid - but there's a big catch

Aston Villa are plotting a bid that will be worth in the region of £18m for Brentford striker Ollie Watkins in the near future .
That ’ s according to the Daily Mail , who claim that the Bees aren ’ t likely to be tempted into selling their top goalscorer for that price , because they value him at closer to £25m .
Watkins was on fire in the Championship last season ; he bagged 26 goals , which made him the division ’ s joint top scorer along with Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic .
Make sure you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sign up to our Villa newsletter That ’ s despite the fact that Watkins , previously a winger , had never spent any great length of time as a centre forward before , when he jumped in to fill Neal Maupay ’ s void .
Despite the fact that Brentford missed out on promotion , the club - moving into their new stadium - insist that their stars , including Watkins and Said Benrahma - another player interesting Villa and Dean Smith - won ’ t be available on the cheap .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Premier League match their fee , but Villa will reportedly try to persuade them to bring that valuation down initially .
Smith , who worked with Watkins and Benrahma during his days as boss at Griffin Park , will be backed in the transfer window this summer , ahead of the new campaign .
He is keen to strengthen his attacking options ; Wesley is still recovering from a long-term injury , while Mbwana Samatta and Keinan Davis struggled in front of goal as Smith ’ s main options after lockdown @

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Aston Villa are plotting a bid that will be worth in the region of £18m for Brentford striker Ollie Watkins in the near future.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who claim that the Bees aren’t likely to be tempted into selling their top goalscorer for that price, because they value him at closer to £25m.
Watkins was on fire in the Championship last season; he bagged 26 goals, which made him the division’s joint top scorer along with Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic.
Make sure you don't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Villa newsletter
That’s despite the fact that Watkins, previously a winger, had never spent any great length of time as a centre forward before, when he jumped in to fill Neal Maupay’s void.
Despite the fact that Brentford missed out on promotion, the club - moving into their new stadium - insist that their stars, including Watkins and Said Benrahma - another player interesting Villa and Dean Smith - won’t be available on the cheap.
They are insisting that any interested suitors from the Premier League match their fee, but Villa will reportedly try to persuade them to bring that valuation down initially.
Smith, who worked with Watkins and Benrahma during his days as boss at Griffin Park, will be backed in the transfer window this summer, ahead of the new campaign.
He is keen to strengthen his attacking options; Wesley is still recovering from a long-term injury, while Mbwana Samatta and Keinan Davis struggled in front of goal as Smith’s main options after lockdown.


birminghammail--2020-08-20--ADVERTORIAL: How to launch your career after receiving your GCSE results

Solihull College & University Centre offers exciting courses designed to prepare students for either employment or university .
Students gain the skills , knowledge and experience necessary to lead them towards their dream career .
What ’ s more , an Extended Diploma from the College is the equivalent to three A-levels , so many students progress to university level courses at the College or to universities across the country .
The College ’ s courses are perfect for those who prefer to learn hands-on .
They are assessed largely through coursework and practical projects rather than purely through exams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety measures have been put in place across the College 's two campuses to ensure students still have access to state-of-the-art facilities including an aircraft hangar , virtual reality lab , animal welfare centre , industry-standard science labs , health & care skills suite , hybrid vehicle workshop and much more !
If you don ’ t achieve the GCSE results you were hoping for , do n't worry – Solihull College & University Centre will help find the right course for you .
Give the team a call !
Linking courses to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ links with local employers to ensure work placements develop students ’ knowledge and skills within industry .
Many courses involve live projects with real clients - Media students set up their own production company to produce media content for local businesses and computing students worked with Virgin Trains to create a virtual reality training tool being just two examples .
The College is also excited to be leading the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Institute of Technology which is a collaboration between further education providers , universities and employers .
The IoT specialises in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on STEM ( science , technology , engineering and mathematics ) subjects .
IoTs focus on the specific technical skills needs in the local area .
This ensures employers are provided with a skilled workforce and students with a clear route to technical employment .
College Principal , John Callaghan commented : “ This is an exciting time to join the College .
We are responding to the skills gaps in the region in a number of innovative ways and getting our students ready for the jobs of the future .
We strive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ technical and digital training for the region ’ s young people.
” Part time and university level courses are also available for anyone looking to progress in their career or learn a new skill .
It ’ s not too late to apply !
The College ’ s School Leaver Advice Days take place on the 20th & 21st August , 10am-4pm and Late Interview Sessions on the 24th , 25th , 26th & 27th August , 2-5pm .
Please call 0121 678 7000 to speak to a tutor from the subject area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Discover more about the College ’ s range of exciting courses at www.solihull.ac.uk

Solihull College & University Centre offers exciting courses designed to prepare students for either employment or university.
Students gain the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to lead them towards their dream career. What’s more, an Extended Diploma from the College is the equivalent to three A-levels, so many students progress to university level courses at the College or to universities across the country.
The College’s courses are perfect for those who prefer to learn hands-on. They are assessed largely through coursework and practical projects rather than purely through exams like A-Levels.
A variety of COVID-19 safety measures have been put in place across the College's two campuses to ensure students still have access to state-of-the-art facilities including an aircraft hangar, virtual reality lab, animal welfare centre, industry-standard science labs, health & care skills suite, hybrid vehicle workshop and much more!
If you don’t achieve the GCSE results you were hoping for, don't worry – Solihull College & University Centre will help find the right course for you. Give the team a call!
Linking courses to jobs is key and the College has links with local employers to ensure work placements develop students’ knowledge and skills within industry. Many courses involve live projects with real clients - Media students set up their own production company to produce media content for local businesses and computing students worked with Virgin Trains to create a virtual reality training tool being just two examples.
The College is also excited to be leading the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Institute of Technology which is a collaboration between further education providers, universities and employers. The IoT specialises in delivering higher technical education with a focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects. IoTs focus on the specific technical skills needs in the local area. This ensures employers are provided with a skilled workforce and students with a clear route to technical employment.
College Principal, John Callaghan commented: “This is an exciting time to join the College. We are responding to the skills gaps in the region in a number of innovative ways and getting our students ready for the jobs of the future. We strive to be at the cutting edge of technical and digital training for the region’s young people.”
Part time and university level courses are also available for anyone looking to progress in their career or learn a new skill.
It’s not too late to apply! The College’s School Leaver Advice Days take place on the 20th & 21st August, 10am-4pm and Late Interview Sessions on the 24th, 25th, 26th & 27th August, 2-5pm. Please call 0121 678 7000 to speak to a tutor from the subject area you’d like to join. Discover more about the College’s range of exciting courses at www.solihull.ac.uk


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Birmingham City Council issues stark warning as coronavirus cases surge

`` If we do n't follow basic health advice ... we will face more tragedy in the weeks and months ahead . ''
Those were the stark words from Councillor Ian Ward - leader of Birmingham City Council - as coronavirus cases surge across the region .
From tomorrow , Birmingham is set to join the national `` watch list '' and faces a one-week race against time to avoid a devastating lockdown .
With Covid rates on the increase , the leaders of the seven metropolitan councils across the West Midlands - Birmingham , Wolverhampton , Coventry , Dudley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have issued a rallying cry to residents .
Issues of 'immediate concern ' to the leaders include the enforcement of face coverings in supermarkets and the collation of customer contact details by bars and restaurants .
And they have urged the government to ensure testing is as widely available as possible .
In a statement issued today - August 20 - Cllr Ward said : `` We can not afford to undo the progress we have made since the spring in the fight against COVID-19 , but we ’ re now at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resolve for the seven West Midlands Councils to continue working in partnership to keep our communities safe .
“ But we all need to step up and do our bit – if we fall ill with the symptoms , we must get tested .
There can be no ifs or buts on this .
“ And we need the guidance from central government to people in our region to be as clear and simple as possible .
It is now getting to the point where many people and businesses are confused and unsure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do .
“ If we don ’ t follow the basic health advice to keep washing hands , to wear face coverings , to keep 2m apart where possible and to get tested when we have symptoms , we will face more tragedy in the weeks and months ahead .
“ More people will fall seriously ill , there will be more deaths and our economy will face another hammer blow , when it needs all the support it can get .
“ We are living with COVID-19 and it isn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone to keep doing their bit to keep themselves , and everyone else , safe.
” Addressing a webinar today , Dr Justin Varney - director of public health in Birmingham - said the rise in cases has been 'dramatic ' and triggered national concern .
He said : `` There is a meeting of gold command this morning ( with health secretary Matt Hancock ) going on - the national watch list is being discussed and is published tomorrow .
`` I expect we will be on that national list and will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support ' - that is not the level that Leicester and Greater Manchester are in , but the level below that - think Northamptonshire , Blackburn , areas like that , certainly over the next week . ''
He warned : `` Birmingham has to stand up and stand together on this .
`` What we do in the next seven days will decide if we go into lockdown or not .
`` If we do it will be for at least two or three weeks , and that will be devastating .
@

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"If we don't follow basic health advice... we will face more tragedy in the weeks and months ahead."
Those were the stark words from Councillor Ian Ward - leader of Birmingham City Council - as coronavirus cases surge across the region.
From tomorrow, Birmingham is set to join the national "watch list" and faces a one-week race against time to avoid a devastating lockdown.
With Covid rates on the increase, the leaders of the seven metropolitan councils across the West Midlands - Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull and Walsall - have issued a rallying cry to residents.
Issues of 'immediate concern' to the leaders include the enforcement of face coverings in supermarkets and the collation of customer contact details by bars and restaurants.
(Image: PA)
And they have urged the government to ensure testing is as widely available as possible.
In a statement issued today - August 20 - Cllr Ward said: "We cannot afford to undo the progress we have made since the spring in the fight against COVID-19, but we’re now at a crossroads.
“There is a continued resolve for the seven West Midlands Councils to continue working in partnership to keep our communities safe.
“But we all need to step up and do our bit – if we fall ill with the symptoms, we must get tested. There can be no ifs or buts on this.
“And we need the guidance from central government to people in our region to be as clear and simple as possible. It is now getting to the point where many people and businesses are confused and unsure about what they can and cannot do.
“If we don’t follow the basic health advice to keep washing hands, to wear face coverings, to keep 2m apart where possible and to get tested when we have symptoms, we will face more tragedy in the weeks and months ahead.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“More people will fall seriously ill, there will be more deaths and our economy will face another hammer blow, when it needs all the support it can get.
“We are living with COVID-19 and it isn’t going away soon, so we urge everyone to keep doing their bit to keep themselves, and everyone else, safe.”
Addressing a webinar today, Dr Justin Varney - director of public health in Birmingham - said the rise in cases has been 'dramatic' and triggered national concern.
He said: "There is a meeting of gold command this morning (with health secretary Matt Hancock) going on - the national watch list is being discussed and is published tomorrow.
"I expect we will be on that national list and will go on as an area of 'enhanced support' - that is not the level that Leicester and Greater Manchester are in, but the level below that - think Northamptonshire, Blackburn, areas like that, certainly over the next week."
He warned: "Birmingham has to stand up and stand together on this.
"What we do in the next seven days will decide if we go into lockdown or not.
"If we do it will be for at least two or three weeks, and that will be devastating."


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Man convicted of killing mum and step dad in ferocious knife attack

A man has been convicted of murder after killing his mother and step dad in a frenzied knife attack at their home in Oldbury .
Anmol Chana , who `` had a fascination with knives '' stabbed them repeatedly , inflicting 50 wounds .
He then made preparations to flee the country .
Chana , 26 , of Hamilton Road , Smethwick , was found guilty of murdering Jasbir Kaur , 52 , and Rupinder Bassan , 51 , by a jury at Birmingham Crown Court .
The court heard that the defendant had a history of animosity towards his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the marriage to his father .
He had sent a text expressing the desire to `` knife her '' and also `` pour boiling water down her throat . ''
The attack happened on the day his mother and step father , who had been together for three years , had allowed him to stay at their home .
In the early hours of February 24 the defendant 's sister , Kiran , who was concerned about not being able to get in contact with them , had contacted the police .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` scene of utter carnage . ''
Jason Pitter QC , prosecuting , said : `` Both of them had been brutally murdered , stabbed multiple times in what must have been a ferocious attack . ''
He said Chana had inflicted `` horrendous '' injuries on the couple who had been `` stabbed and sliced '' before dragging their bodies to the rear living room area .
The defendant had then stolen money from his mother 's handbag and purse and fled the scene in Mr Bassan 's Toyota Aygo .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to contact escorts and had calmly played pool in a pub .
He had contacted an online travel agency and police found travel documents at his home for an intended flight to Italy .
They also discovered the knife used in the killings .
He said his step father , who had dropped his sister off , had returned to the address and had then emerged from the kitchen with a knife saying he was going to `` finish him off . ''
The defendant said he had been acting in self defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then stabbed him and that he had also stabbed his mother because she had got in the way .
Detective Inspector Hannah Whitehouse , from out homicide team , said : “ Chana carried out a despicable crime against his family in their own home which should have been a place of safety .
“ Our investigation revealed that Chana was fanatical about knives and had previously expressed a desire to kill his mother .
“ Sadly we do not know what led him to carry out such a vicious and sickening attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple ’ s wider family and friends .
I can ’ t imagine how they are feeling ; the shock and pain that his actions have caused will stay with them forever .
“ I hope the guilty verdict today provides them with some comfort .
“ Knife crime is devastating and this case has been a harsh reminder of the tragic consequences . ''
The couple ’ s daughter added this tribute : “ My parents were the most loving people I ’ ve ever known .
My mum went through hell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and my brother .
She ’ s the toughest woman I know .
My dad was the perfect match for her .
He was that person who was able to give my mum the space and warmth to relax and be loved in the way we all deserve .
“ I am sad that their lives were ended so quickly without a second thought by a person whom they both loved dearly .
Their lives together had just started .
Not only did he take their lives , but he has tried to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I am angry at him for trying to use such tactics against their memory and against the person who always did her best for us .
“ I have painful daily reminders that I won ’ t have their guidance through my adult life .
The only comfort I have from any of this is that at least my parents are at peace together .
Two beautiful souls eternally together .
And that I ’ ll always love them .
”

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A man has been convicted of murder after killing his mother and step dad in a frenzied knife attack at their home in Oldbury.
Anmol Chana, who "had a fascination with knives" stabbed them repeatedly, inflicting 50 wounds.
He then made preparations to flee the country.
Chana, 26, of Hamilton Road, Smethwick, was found guilty of murdering Jasbir Kaur, 52, and Rupinder Bassan, 51, by a jury at Birmingham Crown Court.
Judge Mark Wall QC has adjourned sentence until Friday morning.
(Image: SWNS)
The court heard that the defendant had a history of animosity towards his mother who he blamed for the break up the marriage to his father.
He had sent a text expressing the desire to "knife her" and also "pour boiling water down her throat."
The attack happened on the day his mother and step father, who had been together for three years, had allowed him to stay at their home.
In the early hours of February 24 the defendant's sister, Kiran, who was concerned about not being able to get in contact with them, had contacted the police.
Officers who then entered the address found a "scene of utter carnage."
Jason Pitter QC, prosecuting, said: "Both of them had been brutally murdered, stabbed multiple times in what must have been a ferocious attack."
He said Chana had inflicted "horrendous" injuries on the couple who had been "stabbed and sliced" before dragging their bodies to the rear living room area.
The defendant had then stolen money from his mother's handbag and purse and fled the scene in Mr Bassan's Toyota Aygo.
In the following days Chana had tried to contact escorts and had calmly played pool in a pub.
He had contacted an online travel agency and police found travel documents at his home for an intended flight to Italy.
They also discovered the knife used in the killings.
He said his step father, who had dropped his sister off, had returned to the address and had then emerged from the kitchen with a knife saying he was going to "finish him off."
The defendant said he had been acting in self defence when he disarmed his step father and then stabbed him and that he had also stabbed his mother because she had got in the way.
Detective Inspector Hannah Whitehouse, from out homicide team, said: “Chana carried out a despicable crime against his family in their own home which should have been a place of safety.
“Our investigation revealed that Chana was fanatical about knives and had previously expressed a desire to kill his mother.
“Sadly we do not know what led him to carry out such a vicious and sickening attack.
“My thoughts remain with the couple’s wider family and friends. I can’t imagine how they are feeling; the shock and pain that his actions have caused will stay with them forever.
“I hope the guilty verdict today provides them with some comfort.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“Knife crime is devastating and this case has been a harsh reminder of the tragic consequences."
The couple’s daughter added this tribute: “My parents were the most loving people I’ve ever known. My mum went through hell and kept going to look after me and my brother. She’s the toughest woman I know. My dad was the perfect match for her. He was that person who was able to give my mum the space and warmth to relax and be loved in the way we all deserve.
“I am sad that their lives were ended so quickly without a second thought by a person whom they both loved dearly. Their lives together had just started. Not only did he take their lives, but he has tried to defame them in court to protect himself. I am angry at him for trying to use such tactics against their memory and against the person who always did her best for us.
“I have painful daily reminders that I won’t have their guidance through my adult life. The only comfort I have from any of this is that at least my parents are at peace together. Two beautiful souls eternally together. And that I’ll always love them.”


birminghammail--2020-08-20--Message to Birmingham reveals how we can prevent local lockdown

The leaders of seven local councils across the West Midlands have issued a joint plea for everyone to work together and prevent a devastating local or regional lockdown .
They want Birmingham and its neighbours to avoid the same fate as Leicester and parts of Greater Manchester , where new lockdown measures have been imposed .
Ian Ward , leader of Birmingham City Council , said : `` We all need to step up and do our bit . ''
And council leaders also urged supermarkets to ensure customers wore face masks - and bars and restaurants to ensure they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customer .
The advice from the councils has been issued before , but it 's vital that we stick to it .
They want people to : • Keep 2m apart where possible • Get tested if you have symptoms that could possibly be coronavirus It follows an increase in coronavirus in Birmingham and other parts of the West Midlands , and growing concern that this could lead to the Government imposing a local lockdown .
Local council leaders also warned that the Government was issuing confusing messages .
Coun Ward said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government to people in our region to be as clear and simple as possible .
It is now getting to the point where many people and businesses are confused and unsure about what they can and can not do . ''
But in a plea to the people of Birmingham and its neighbours , he said : `` We can not afford to undo the progress we have made since the spring in the fight against COVID-19 , but we ’ re now at a crossroads .
“ There is a continued resolve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue working in partnership to keep our communities safe .
“ But we all need to step up and do our bit – if we fall ill with the symptoms , we must get tested .
There can be no ifs or buts on this . ''
He added : “ More people will fall seriously ill , there will be more deaths and our economy will face another hammer blow , when it needs all the support it can get .
“ We are living with COVID-19 and it isn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone to keep doing their bit to keep themselves , and everyone else , safe.
” The seven West Midlands councils are Birmingham , City of Wolverhampton , Coventry , Dudley , Sandwell , Solihull and Walsall .
Latest figures from Public Health England show Birmingham has a coronavirus infection rate of 25.8 cases per 100,000 people .
This is the 13th highest rate in the country , but many of the areas with a higher rate have already entered a local lockdown .

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The leaders of seven local councils across the West Midlands have issued a joint plea for everyone to work together and prevent a devastating local or regional lockdown.
They want Birmingham and its neighbours to avoid the same fate as Leicester and parts of Greater Manchester, where new lockdown measures have been imposed.
Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "We all need to step up and do our bit."
And council leaders also urged supermarkets to ensure customers wore face masks - and bars and restaurants to ensure they collected names and contact details of every customer.
The advice from the councils has been issued before, but it's vital that we stick to it. They want people to:
Keep washing hands
Wear face coverings
Keep 2m apart where possible
Get tested if you have symptoms that could possibly be coronavirus
It follows an increase in coronavirus in Birmingham and other parts of the West Midlands, and growing concern that this could lead to the Government imposing a local lockdown.
Local council leaders also warned that the Government was issuing confusing messages. Coun Ward said: "We need the guidance from central government to people in our region to be as clear and simple as possible. It is now getting to the point where many people and businesses are confused and unsure about what they can and cannot do."
But in a plea to the people of Birmingham and its neighbours, he said: "We cannot afford to undo the progress we have made since the spring in the fight against COVID-19, but we’re now at a crossroads.
“There is a continued resolve for the seven West Midlands Councils to continue working in partnership to keep our communities safe.
“But we all need to step up and do our bit – if we fall ill with the symptoms, we must get tested. There can be no ifs or buts on this."
He added: “More people will fall seriously ill, there will be more deaths and our economy will face another hammer blow, when it needs all the support it can get.
“We are living with COVID-19 and it isn’t going away soon, so we urge everyone to keep doing their bit to keep themselves, and everyone else, safe.”
The seven West Midlands councils are Birmingham, City of Wolverhampton, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull and Walsall.
Latest figures from Public Health England show Birmingham has a coronavirus infection rate of 25.8 cases per 100,000 people. This is the 13th highest rate in the country, but many of the areas with a higher rate have already entered a local lockdown.