birminghammail--2020-09-13--Rule of Six comes in tomorrow - what you can and cannot do under new Covid laws

New coronavirus rules brought in by the Government are coming into effect on Monday , September 14 .
Tomorrow sees the introduction of the rule of six as limits on the number of people you can see socially are changing , because of a rise in Covid-19 cases .
From Monday , when meeting friends and family you do not live with , you must NOT meet in a group of more than six - either indoors or outdoors .
It will be against the law to meet people you do not live with in a group larger than six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ household or support bubble .
Police will have the powers to enforce these legal limits , including issuing fines of £100 , doubling for further breaches up to a maximum of £3,200 .
On top of that , the next day sees the start of Birmingham lockdown restrictions affecting the city as well as Sandwell and Solihull .
Here are the new Covid rules explained .
Where does the Rule of Six apply ?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new rules for England , where it will be illegal to gather socially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In England , the rule of six includes children so it applies to people of all ages .
The new law comes into effect for private homes and gardens ; public outdoor spaces like parks ; and venues such as pubs and restuarants .
The six people can be from any number of households , although guidance says people from different households should still socially distance from each other , Mirror Online reports .
If your household or 'support bubble ' has more than six people , you 're still allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support bubble is where one single-adult household has joined up exclusively with another household .
A similar rule of six applies in Scotland from Monday too , except groups of six can only be made up of people from two households in total .
It 's a little more relaxed in that children under 12 from these households wo n't count towards the limit of six people .
And in Wales , any gatherings must now also be limited to six people - this is on top of existing Welsh rules on 'extended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have joined together into an exclusive mega-bubble .
Unlike England , children under 11 will not count towards the six-person limit in Wales .
And in Wales the rule of six applies only to indoor groups .
Outdoors , gatherings of up to 30 people are still permitted .
In a separate development in Wales , face coverings will become mandatory in indoor public places from Monday .
What are the exemptions ?
The Government has detailed where exceptions where groups can be larger than six people , including : • where everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support bubble , or to continue existing arrangements where children do not live in the same household as both their parents • for work , and voluntary or charitable services • for education , training , registered childcare , or providers offering before or after-school clubs for children • fulfilling legal obligations such as attending court or jury service • for you or someone else to avoid illness , injury or harm • wedding and civil partnership ceremonies and receptions , or for other religious life-cycle ceremonies - where up to 30 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - where up to 30 people will be able to attend • organised indoor and outdoor sports , physical activity and exercise classes ( see the list of recreational team sports , outdoor sport and exercise allowed under the gyms and leisure centre guidance • protests and political activities organised in compliance with COVID-19 secure guidance and subject to strict risk assessments Here 's some further detail on what you can and can not do under the new rules : You can still go to pubs , cafes and restaurants So you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurants but only with five other people .
The limit applies to your group , not the entire building .
These venues will still be able to have dozens of people inside , as long as it 's in a Covid-secure way with social distancing .
But each table wo n't be able to have more than six people .
When you visit one of these places , you should : • follow the limits on the number of other people you should meet with as a group - no more than six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or are in the same support bubble ) • avoid social interaction with anyone outside the group you are with , even if you see other people you know • provide your contact details to the organiser so that you can be contacted if needed by the NHS Track and Trace Service .
You can still live in big households Where everyone lives together , the rule of six does not apply .
So if you 're in a house of seven people , that is legal .
It also applies if your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This is where two households have joined together and are acting as though they 're one household .
The rules are that one of the two households must contain only one adult ; and the bubble must be exclusive .
You ca n't be in more than one support bubble .
If you 're going to uni , you 'll be split into `` households '' according to which floor or flat you 're on in a hall of residence .
You can do exercise classes - but not a kickabout There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indoor and outdoor sports , physical activity and exercise classes . ''
This means gym classes will be allowed , as long as they are properly socially distanced .
But a kickabout or five-a-side in the park with your mates is not allowed .
The emphasis is on the word `` organised '' - the league or club you 're playing in must show it 's Covid-secure .
You can go to work and school There will be a blanket exemption `` for work , and voluntary or charitable services '' .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , training , or registered childcare ( including wraparound care ) '' .
This is because schools , unis and workplaces can , at least in theory , be set up in a Covid-secure way .
You can send your child to a playgroup There 'll be an exemption to `` participate in children ’ s playgroups '' .
They must be done in a Covid-secure way .
Similarly `` youth groups or activities '' are also allowed .
You can share childcare if you 're divorced The law will allow an exemption @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do not live in the same household as both their parents '' .
This means kids can divide time between the homes of divorced or separated parents , and be taken to those homes , without the rule of six applying .
You can still use public transport The limit on gatherings does not apply to a dozen strangers happening to use the same space at the same time , like a bus deck or train or tram carriage .
You should continue to wear a face covering and stay socially distant from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partner from another household ( legally ) but you ca n't have sex ( in guidance ) The only legal limit is on meeting in a group of more than six .
However , guidelines - which are not the law , and you can ’ t get fined for breaking - say you should remain socially distant from anyone in another household .
That means staying two metres apart where possible , or one metre with other measures .
Technically sex or cuddling is against the guidelines , even though it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an established relationship do not need to socially distance .
If in the early stages of a relationship , you are advised to take particular care to follow the guidance on social distancing .
If you intend to have close contact with someone , you should discuss how you can help to prevent risks of transmission as a couple , for example , ensuring you are both avoiding close contact with people you do not live with .
You can hold a small wedding or funeral More than six people are permitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life events , such as christenings , baptisms , and bar mitzvahs .
However , celebratory receptions of up to 30 people are only permitted for weddings and civil partnerships .
The Government says it `` remains important to limit the number of large social gatherings at this time given the significant risk of transmission . ''
If you are attending other types of ceremonies , you should minimise your social interaction with others , and always keep your distance from people you do not live with ( or who are in your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gatherings limit of six people does not apply to funerals .
Relevant premises will limit capacity based on how many people it can safely accommodate with social distancing in place , and the Government advises that funerals are limited to 30 people .
You can go to a protest There will be exemptions for `` protests and political activities organised in compliance with COVID-19 secure guidance and subject to strict risk assessments '' .
There needs to be a point of contact for police to speak to .
The ban is on six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same time , of any age .
Children and babies count towards the limit - despite young kids being exempt in Scotland and Wales .
So if you have four children , you ca n't take them all to see their grandparents at the same time because that would result in more than six people in the room .
Check all the latest data on coronavirus cases in your area by typing your postcode in below : You ca n't rent a cottage with lots of friends One person asked if a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go on a staycation to share a cottage in England .
No , they ca n't .
This could count as a social gathering of eight people and is against the law .
If two people drop out , then the holiday can go ahead as it 'll only be a gathering of six - even if you ’ re from three households .
The Government states that should not go on holiday in England with people you do not live with ( or who are not in your support bubble ) in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You should ensure you maintain social distancing with anyone you do not live with or is not in your support bubble .
If you are in a support bubble , or if the group consists solely of people you live with , you can stay overnight without needing to maintain social distancing .
People in the same support bubble can also gather together indoors even if the group size is more than six .
Day trips to outdoor open space are allowed .
You are advised to take hygiene and safety precautions if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to practise social distancing from other people outside your household or support bubble .
If visiting or holidaying in other parts of the UK – Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland – you must follow the laws that apply in those places .
You ca n't just keep your child off school The Government suspended fines for absence in the summer , but they have now returned .
Ministers have made clear they want children in school , even if they or their parents were previously shielding .
However , they also say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should discuss your or your child 's circumstances with your school .
Some children may have specific medical issues that mean they can be off .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Dan Bloom, David Bentley)

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New coronavirus rules brought in by the Government are coming into effect on September 14.
Monday sees the introduction of the rule of six as limits on the number of people you can see socially are changing, because of a rise in Covid-19 cases.
When meeting friends and family you do not live with, you must NOT meet in a group of more than six - either indoors or outdoors.
It will be against the law to meet people you do not live with in a group larger than six, unless you are meeting as a household or support bubble.
Police will have the powers to enforce these legal limits, including issuing fines of £100, doubling for further breaches up to a maximum of £3,200.
On top of that, Tuesday sees the start of Birmingham lockdown restrictions affecting the city as well as Sandwell and Solihull.
Here are the new Covid rules explained.
(Image: PA)
Where does the Rule of Six apply?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new rules for England, where it will be illegal to gather socially in a group of more than six.
In England, the rule of six includes children so it applies to people of all ages.
The new law comes into effect for private homes and gardens; public outdoor spaces like parks; and venues such as pubs and restuarants.
The six people can be from any number of households, although guidance says people from different households should still socially distance from each other, Mirror Online reports.
If your household or 'support bubble' has more than six people, you're still allowed to be in a group together.
A support bubble is where one single-adult household has joined up exclusively with another household.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Scotland
A similar rule of six applies in Scotland from Monday too, except groups of six can only be made up of people from two households in total.
It's a little more relaxed in that children under 12 from these households won't count towards the limit of six people.
Wales
And in Wales, any gatherings must now also be limited to six people - this is on top of existing Welsh rules on 'extended households' where up to four households have joined together into an exclusive mega-bubble.
Unlike England, children under 11 will not count towards the six-person limit in Wales.
And in Wales the rule of six applies only to indoor groups. Outdoors, gatherings of up to 30 people are still permitted.
In a separate development in Wales, face coverings will become mandatory in indoor public places from Monday.
What are the exemptions?
The Government has detailed exceptions where groups can be larger than six people, including:
where everyone lives together or is in the same support bubble, or to continue existing arrangements where children do not live in the same household as both their parents
for work, and voluntary or charitable services
for education, training, registered childcare, or providers offering before or after-school clubs for children
fulfilling legal obligations such as attending court or jury service
providing emergency assistance, or providing support to a vulnerable person
for you or someone else to avoid illness, injury or harm
participate in children's playgroups
wedding and civil partnership ceremonies and receptions, or for other religious life-cycle ceremonies - where up to 30 people will be able to attend
funerals - where up to 30 people will be able to attend
organised indoor and outdoor sports, physical activity and exercise classes (see the list of recreational team sports, outdoor sport and exercise allowed under the gyms and leisure centre guidance
youth groups or activities
elite sporting competition or training
protests and political activities organised in compliance with COVID-19 secure guidance and subject to strict risk assessments
Here's some further detail on what you can and cannot do under the new rules:
(Image: Getty Images)
You can still go to pubs, cafes and restaurants
So you can still go to pubs, cafes and restaurants but only with five other people.
The limit applies to your group, not the entire building.
These venues will still be able to have dozens of people inside, as long as it's in a Covid-secure way with social distancing.
But each table won't be able to have more than six people.
When you visit one of these places, you should:
follow the limits on the number of other people you should meet with as a group - no more than six people unless you all live together (or are in the same support bubble)
avoid social interaction with anyone outside the group you are with, even if you see other people you know
provide your contact details to the organiser so that you can be contacted if needed by the NHS Track and Trace Service.
You can still live in big households
Where everyone lives together, the rule of six does not apply. So if you're in a house of seven people, that is legal.
It also applies if your support bubble includes more than six people. This is where two households have joined together and are acting as though they're one household.
The rules are that one of the two households must contain only one adult; and the bubble must be exclusive. You can't be in more than one support bubble.
If you're going to uni, you'll be split into "households" according to which floor or flat you're on in a hall of residence.
You can do exercise classes - but not a kickabout
There'll be an exemption for "organised indoor and outdoor sports, physical activity and exercise classes."
This means gym classes will be allowed, as long as they are properly socially distanced.
But a kickabout or five-a-side in the park with your mates is not allowed. The emphasis is on the word "organised" - the league or club you're playing in must show it's Covid-secure.
You can go to work and school
There will be a blanket exemption "for work, and voluntary or charitable services".
There is also an exemption for "education, training, or registered childcare (including wraparound care)".
This is because schools, unis and workplaces can, at least in theory, be set up in a Covid-secure way.
(Image: Getty Images)
You can send your child to a playgroup
There'll be an exemption to "participate in children’s playgroups". They must be done in a Covid-secure way.
Similarly "youth groups or activities" are also allowed.
You can share childcare if you're divorced
The law will allow an exemption to "continue existing arrangements where children do not live in the same household as both their parents".
This means kids can divide time between the homes of divorced or separated parents, and be taken to those homes, without the rule of six applying.
(Image: Getty Images)
You can still use public transport
The limit on gatherings does not apply to a dozen strangers happening to use the same space at the same time, like a bus deck or a train or tram carriage.
You should continue to wear a face covering and stay socially distant from fellow passengers.
You can meet your partner from another household (legally) but you can't have sex (in guidance)
The only legal limit is on meeting in a group of more than six.
However, guidelines - which are not the law, and you can’t get fined for breaking - say you should remain socially distant from anyone in another household.
That means staying two metres apart where possible, or one metre with other measures.
Technically sex or cuddling is against the guidelines, even though it’s not against the law.
People in an established relationship do not need to socially distance. If in the early stages of a relationship, you are advised to take particular care to follow the guidance on social distancing.
If you intend to have close contact with someone, you should discuss how you can help to prevent risks of transmission as a couple, for example, ensuring you are both avoiding close contact with people you do not live with.
You can hold a small wedding or funeral
More than six people are permitted to attend the ceremonies for certain significant life events, such as christenings, baptisms, and bar mitzvahs.
However, celebratory receptions of up to 30 people are only permitted for weddings and civil partnerships.
The Government says it "remains important to limit the number of large social gatherings at this time given the significant risk of transmission."
If you are attending other types of ceremonies, you should minimise your social interaction with others, and always keep your distance from people you do not live with (or who are in your support bubble).
The new legal gatherings limit of six people does not apply to funerals.
Relevant premises will limit capacity based on how many people it can safely accommodate with social distancing in place, and the Government advises that funerals are limited to 30 people.
You can go to a protest
There will be exemptions for "protests and political activities organised in compliance with COVID-19 secure guidance and subject to strict risk assessments".
There needs to be a point of contact for police to speak to.
You can't count children separately
The ban is on six people meeting in the same place at the same time, of any age.
Children and babies count towards the limit - despite young kids being exempt in Scotland and Wales.
So if you have four children, you can't take them all to see their grandparents at the same time because that would result in more than six people in the room.
Check all the latest data on coronavirus cases in your area by typing your postcode in below:
You can't rent a cottage with lots of friends
One person asked if a group of eight from three households can go on a staycation to share a cottage in England.
No, they can't. This could count as a social gathering of eight people and is against the law.
If two people drop out, then the holiday can go ahead as it'll only be a gathering of six - even if you’re from three households.
The Government states that should not go on holiday in England with people you do not live with (or who are not in your support bubble) in any group larger than six people. You should ensure you maintain social distancing with anyone you do not live with or is not in your support bubble.
If you are in a support bubble, or if the group consists solely of people you live with, you can stay overnight without needing to maintain social distancing. People in the same support bubble can also gather together indoors even if the group size is more than six.
Day trips to outdoor open spaces are allowed. You are advised to take hygiene and safety precautions if using services on the way, and to practise social distancing from other people outside your household or support bubble.
If visiting or holidaying in other parts of the UK – Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – you must follow the laws that apply in those places.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
You can't just keep your child off school
The Government suspended fines for absence in the summer, but they have now returned.
Ministers have made clear they want children in school, even if they or their parents were previously shielding.
However, they also say if you’re worried, you should discuss your or your child's circumstances with your school.
Some children may have specific medical issues that mean they can be off.


birminghammail--2020-09-13--Temperatures set to soar and could reach 28°C

The region is set to bask in glorious sunshine as the warm temperatures continue , treating us to what could @ @ @ @ @ summer .
The mercury could soar up to 28°C in the Black Country and Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ 14 , with the day starting off as misty .
But by late morning the @ @ @ @ @ The UV levels will be medium and the pollution levels low .
On Tuesday , @ @ @ @ @ still reach 23°C .
According to the Met Office website there will be sunny spells @ @ @ @ @ from late morning .
It 's looking drier and more overcast on Wednesday with sunny @ @ @ @ @ One noticeable change will be the dark nights slowly drawing in as the sun is @ @ @ @ @ as 7.12pm on Saturday , September 19 .

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The region is set to bask in glorious sunshine as the warm temperatures continue, treating us to what could be our last taste of summer.
The mercury could soar up to 28°C in the Black Country and Birmingham on, Monday, September 14, with the day starting off as misty.
But by late morning the sun will be shining. The UV levels will be medium and the pollution levels low.
On Tuesday, September 15, temperatures could still reach 23°C. According to the Met Office website there will be sunny spells with potential for scatted showers from late morning.
It's looking drier and more overcast on Wednesday with sunny spells again on Thursday.
One noticeable change will be the dark nights slowly drawing in as the sun is expected to set as early as 7.12pm on Saturday, September 19.


birminghammail--2020-09-13--Mum whose child ill with Covid symptoms given 'useless test'

A Birmingham mum has slammed the Covid testing system after her daughter fell ill with symptoms but a home test she was offered would n't register on the Government website .
Caragh Quinn , 29 , her seven-year-old daughter Grace and her partner Chanelle , 28 , are all self-isolating in their south Birmingham home , despite being left in the dark as to whether they are infected .
The mum-of-one became concerned after daughter Grace came home from school with a fever on Monday ( Sept 7 ) - after just three days back in education .
The schoolgirl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of a 'clinically vulnerable ' household , had a high temperature above the 38C consistent with the virus .
The family tried to book a test online first , but were told there were none available - and subsequently that the nearest centre was in Scotland .
`` At first it said no tests available , then it said the nearest test site was Inverness , 359 miles away or something stupid like that , '' Caragh said .
After contacting her school to inform them of the suspected case and trouble @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivered one of the few tests they had available to their front door .
`` My daughter did the test and it was traumatic .
It 's intrusive , she gagged quite a bit , she has sensory issues as well so it was quite difficult , '' she added .
`` But we managed to get it done , then [ the Government website ] just said 'there 's a problem , try again later ' .
`` We still ca n't register it .
`` The school only has 10 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because it ca n't be registered .
`` Now the test is rendered invalid because it 's been after six days .
Day 5 it says to book a test at a centre , and day six onwards it 's too late for a test .
`` We tried to order tests for us as well , but yesterday it said to travel to Wales - a little bit closer than Scotland ! ''
Caragh 's partner Chanelle Quinn has been trying to book a test online since the swab failed to register @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now my partner has a cough and temperature , my daughter is still ill .
If it was positive , how many others at the school are going to be ill ?
`` We were deemed as a clinically vulnerable household and we were concerned about her going back in the first place .
`` But with the threat of parents being fined if they do n't go back , we literally had no choice , '' Caragh added .
`` For her to go back and within three days at school to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My partner is trying to do the online booking constantly , and we 're just not getting any hope . ''
Grace will be off school and the family will be self-isolating at home until September 21 , in line with the Government advice .
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said : “ NHS Test and Trace is working and our capacity is the highest it has ever been but we are seeing a significant demand for tests including from people who do not have symptoms and are not otherwise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made available daily for those who need them , and children of any age can get a test if they have symptoms .
We are targeting testing capacity at the areas that need it most , including those where there is an outbreak , and prioritising at-risk groups .
“ Our laboratories are processing more than a million tests a week and we recently announced new facilities and technology to process results even faster .
”

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A Birmingham mum has slammed the Covid testing system after her daughter fell ill with symptoms but a home test she was offered wouldn't register on the Government website.
Caragh Quinn, 29, her seven-year-old daughter Grace and her partner Chanelle, 28, are all self-isolating in their south Birmingham home, despite being left in the dark as to whether they are infected.
The mum-of-one became concerned after daughter Grace came home from school with a fever on Monday (Sept 7) - after just three days back in education.
The schoolgirl, who suffers from asthma and is part of a 'clinically vulnerable' household, had a high temperature above the 38C consistent with the virus.
(Image: Caragh Quinn)
The family tried to book a test online first, but were told there were none available - and subsequently that the nearest centre was in Scotland.
"At first it said no tests available, then it said the nearest test site was Inverness, 359 miles away or something stupid like that," Caragh said.
After contacting her school to inform them of the suspected case and trouble scheduling a swab, a teaching assistant delivered one of the few tests they had available to their front door.
"My daughter did the test and it was traumatic. It's intrusive, she gagged quite a bit, she has sensory issues as well so it was quite difficult," she added.
"But we managed to get it done, then [the Government website] just said 'there's a problem, try again later'.
"We still can't register it. "The school only has 10, and that's one used and wasted because it can't be registered.
"Now the test is rendered invalid because it's been after six days. Day 5 it says to book a test at a centre, and day six onwards it's too late for a test.
"We tried to order tests for us as well, but yesterday it said to travel to Wales - a little bit closer than Scotland!"
Caragh's partner Chanelle Quinn has been trying to book a test online since the swab failed to register, but to no avail.
"Now my partner has a cough and temperature, my daughter is still ill. If it was positive, how many others at the school are going to be ill?
"We were deemed as a clinically vulnerable household and we were concerned about her going back in the first place.
"But with the threat of parents being fined if they don't go back, we literally had no choice," Caragh added.
"For her to go back and within three days at school to be ill, it's concerning. My partner is trying to do the online booking constantly, and we're just not getting any hope."
Grace will be off school and the family will be self-isolating at home until September 21, in line with the Government advice.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “NHS Test and Trace is working and our capacity is the highest it has ever been but we are seeing a significant demand for tests including from people who do not have symptoms and are not otherwise eligible.
“New booking slots are made available daily for those who need them, and children of any age can get a test if they have symptoms. We are targeting testing capacity at the areas that need it most, including those where there is an outbreak, and prioritising at-risk groups.
“Our laboratories are processing more than a million tests a week and we recently announced new facilities and technology to process results even faster.”


birminghammail--2020-09-13--How Brummies say they'll be affected by new restrictions

Dozens of residents across the city say their mental health will suffer , they will not be able to see grandchildren and will have to cancel family holidays as local Covid restrictions set in .
The measures , coming into effect on Tuesday , will mean different households can no longer mix in homes or gardens in a bid to drive down rising coronavirus cases .
While some said this would make little to no difference to their lives , grandparents spoke of 'missing valuable ' time with their grandkids amid the new rules and many struggle with childcare .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ take a hit from not being able to stay with loved ones - such as boyfriends - who live outside their household .
Under the rules , groups of up to six people can still gather in pubs or restaurants as there is a suggestion the spike in infections is caused by gatherings at home .
Speaking on the impact of new restrictions which 'make no sense ' , resident Stacey Lilly , said : `` I can go to work and interact with colleagues from different households , getting tested every other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I can go to pubs , restaurants so on surrounded by strangers , go shopping where hardly anyone uses a mask or observes social distancing ... ... . ''
But I ca n't go to my boyfriend 's house who 's working from home , but I can meet him in an environment with strangers .
Makes complete sense . ''
Kate Chesters wrote : `` And for those families who cant afford to pay for the extra childcare or grandparents do it for their mental health ? ''
`` Far from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exacerbating those with already poor mental health & creating issues amongst those who haven ’ t suffered poor mental health previously . ''
Afsana Mussani added : `` Wo n't be able to have my son 's birthday party with family now and he 's upset because he has learning disabilities . ''
Grandmother Nicola Jane Hickman commented : `` There is five of us living at home .
Then I have my other four children and grandchildren living in their homes that I 'm now not going to be able to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am going to find it very difficult not seeing my family .
`` I have already had 12 weeks of isolating because I am over 70 , which was very depressing .
It 's cruel to stop families meeting in their homes and gardens but I can go and meet hoards of people in a pub .
`` No logic to any of it .
If it goes on for too long there are going to be a lot of people with mental health problems .
At my age I do n't know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I want to spend those years with my family .
Barbara Younger added : `` My daughter and husband come back of holiday today : it means that l wont be able to see them again for heaven knows how long this time .
`` I also wont be able to see my other two girls in Cheshire which l had planned to stay with for a weeks break . ''
However , others living in one of three restricted areas - Birmingham , Sandwell and Solihull - said they wo n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport and the hospitality sector remain open .
James Joseph said : `` In no way whatsoever .
Schools still open , shops still open , pubs still open , public transport still running .
`` If you hadn ’ t told me I was on ‘ lockdown ’ I don ’ t see how I would have noticed . ''
Kate Mann added : `` Not at all really .
We have stayed in virtual lock down since 17 March .
We do not meet up with other people at all .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if my children are allowed to go to school , husband is allowed into work and my son is allowed to football they will be seeing BOTH grandparents we wont be choosing . ''
You can read all your questions answered on the restrictions here .
Find out if you are affected by the new rules here .

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Dozens of residents across the city say their mental health will suffer, they will not be able to see grandchildren and will have to cancel family holidays as local Covid restrictions set in.
The measures, coming into effect on Tuesday, will mean different households can no longer mix in homes or gardens in a bid to drive down rising coronavirus cases.
While some said this would make little to no difference to their lives, grandparents spoke of 'missing valuable' time with their grandkids amid the new rules and many struggle with childcare.
Others told BirminghamLive their mental health would take a hit from not being able to stay with loved ones - such as boyfriends - who live outside their household.
Under the rules, groups of up to six people can still gather in pubs or restaurants as there is a suggestion the spike in infections is caused by gatherings at home.
Speaking on the impact of new restrictions which 'make no sense', resident Stacey Lilly, said: "I can go to work and interact with colleagues from different households, getting tested every other week with work due to my job, I can go to pubs, restaurants so on surrounded by strangers, go shopping where hardly anyone uses a mask or observes social distancing.......
"But I can't go to my boyfriend's house who's working from home, but I can meet him in an environment with strangers. Makes complete sense."
Kate Chesters wrote: "And for those families who cant afford to pay for the extra childcare or grandparents do it for their mental health?"
Victoria Finnemore commented: "Continued virtual shutdown of essential mental health services.
"Far from ideal given that the Covid situation is exacerbating those with already poor mental health & creating issues amongst those who haven’t suffered poor mental health previously."
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Afsana Mussani added: "Won't be able to have my son's birthday party with family now and he's upset because he has learning disabilities."
Grandmother Nicola Jane Hickman commented: "There is five of us living at home. Then I have my other four children and grandchildren living in their homes that I'm now not going to be able to see.
"I'm missing valuable time with my grandchildren."
Patricia Leighfield added: "I am going to find it very difficult not seeing my family.
"I have already had 12 weeks of isolating because I am over 70, which was very depressing. It's cruel to stop families meeting in their homes and gardens but I can go and meet hoards of people in a pub.
"No logic to any of it. If it goes on for too long there are going to be a lot of people with mental health problems. At my age I don't know how many years I have got left and I want to spend those years with my family.
Barbara Younger added: "My daughter and husband come back of holiday today: it means that l wont be able to see them again for heaven knows how long this time.
"I also wont be able to see my other two girls in Cheshire which l had planned to stay with for a weeks break."
However, others living in one of three restricted areas - Birmingham, Sandwell and Solihull - said they won't see a difference as schools, public transport and the hospitality sector remain open.
James Joseph said: "In no way whatsoever. Schools still open, shops still open, pubs still open, public transport still running.
"If you hadn’t told me I was on ‘lockdown’ I don’t see how I would have noticed."
Kate Mann added: "Not at all really. We have stayed in virtual lock down since 17 March. We do not meet up with other people at all."
Sarah Hodgetts added: "Nothing, if my children are allowed to go to school, husband is allowed into work and my son is allowed to football they will be seeing BOTH grandparents we wont be choosing."
You can read all your questions answered on the restrictions here. Find out if you are affected by the new rules here.


birminghammail--2020-09-13--Dozens of drivers caught ignoring lane closures after smash on motorway

Motorway cops dealing with a crash on the M6 - which closed two lanes - have caught dozens of drivers ignoring the closures .
Two lanes were closed off , displaying red Xs above them , following the smash northbound between junctions 12 and 13 .
Central Motorway Police Group caught more than 40 drivers travelling through the closed lanes while they were dealing with the incident .
Police say those who were found contravening the red X can expect some paperwork in the post .
In a post on social media , the force said : `` We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ M6 Northbound between junctions 12 and 13 .
`` Two lanes are closed with a Red X above , unbelievably in excess of 40 vehicles have been witnessed contravening the Red X ... all can expect paperwork through the post . ''
Advice on the Highways England Website says it ’ s illegal to drive in a lane closed by a red X signal .
If you ’ re caught , you could receive a fixed penalty of up to £100 and three points , and in some cases more severe penalties or @ @ @ @

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Motorway cops dealing with a crash on the M6 - which closed two lanes - have caught dozens of drivers ignoring the closures.
Two lanes were closed off, displaying red Xs above them, following the smash northbound between junctions 12 and 13.
Central Motorway Police Group caught more than 40 drivers travelling through the closed lanes while they were dealing with the incident.
Police say those who were found contravening the red X can expect some paperwork in the post.
In a post on social media, the force said: "We are currently dealing with a collision on the M6 Northbound between junctions 12 and 13.
"Two lanes are closed with a Red X above, unbelievably in excess of 40 vehicles have been witnessed contravening the Red X...all can expect paperwork through the post."
Is ignoring a red X illegal?
Advice on the Highways England Website says it’s illegal to drive in a lane closed by a red X signal.
If you’re caught, you could receive a fixed penalty of up to £100 and three points, and in some cases more severe penalties or a court appearance.


birminghammail--2020-09-14--West Brom v Aston Villa U23s LIVE as Premier League 2 kicks off

West Bromwich Albion ’ s U23s take on their Aston Villa counterparts at Birmingham County FA today as the Premier @ @ @ @ @ new season .
Albion , managed by Deon Burton and assisted by James Morrison and @ @ @ @ @ strong campaign last season and found themselves well placed in third before the season was @ @ @ @ @ .
The Baggies claimed the bragging rights back in February when Nick Clayton Phillips ’ @ @ @ @ @ at Bodymoor Heath .
Villa , under Mark Delaney , have recruited this summer with @ @ @ @ @ 23s and bringing the average age of the group down .
Among their ranks is @ @ @ @ @ We have Albion reporter Joe Chapman and Villa correspondent Ashley Preece at the game today @ @ @ @ @ regular updates and reaction after the final whistle .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Joseph Chapman, Ashley Preece)

West Bromwich Albion's under-23s beat local rivals Aston Villa in their Premier League 2 opener at Birmingham County FA in Great Barr.
Albion's Zak Brown slammed home the opener in the first half, before No.9 Owen Windsor struck two penalties late on as Villa collapsed.
Live wire substitute Jaden Philogene-Bidace scored a well-taken equaliser just moments after coming on, slotting home a rebound from Carney Chukmueweka's left-footed effort which was fumbled by Jonathan Bond.
Mark Delaney's Villa side were without usual suspects Jacob Ramsey, Kaine Kesler and Mungo Bridge, while Louie Barry was also missing.
Albion, though, managed by Dean Burton, dominated the opening exchanges and went deservedly ahead. Villa piled on the pressure late on thanks to the introduction of winger Philogene-Bidace.
Irish winger Tyreik Wright, meanwhile, had a glorious opportunity to equalise and went agonisingly close after a cut-back by that man again, Philogene-Bidace.
Albion made Villa pay, though, with Windsor striking home two penalties, the first of which was for a handball while, secondly, Villa centre-back Bradley Burton looked leggy and brought the Albion man down in the box before he rifled home to condemn Villa to an opening-day 3-1 defeat.


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Aldi shopping rules as new 'Rule of Six' is introduced in the UK

As coronavirus cases continue to rise in the UK , the Government has brought in a new rule to prevent large groups from gathering .
Now , you can not gather in more than groups of six , inside and outside , or you might risk being fined .
The new rules and guidelines means it could interfere with how many of us shop on a daily or weekly basis depending on when you shop .
Aldi is one of the most popular stores in the UK with amazing deals where hundreds of thousands of Brits visit every single day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean for regular Aldi shoppers and how does the Rule of Six apply ?
Do I have to wear a face mask and what happens if I do n't ?
We 've complied what the supermarket giant has said in regards to the new rules so you can be more informed .
From July 24 , the Government made the wearing of face masks mandatory in all supermarkets and retail stores including Aldi .
The store has asked people to wear a face mask .
However , it makes it clear that staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The best time to visit Many of us want to avoid the supermarket when it is the most busiest and Aldi has released a helpful diagram to show when you might want to visit .
The new Rule of Six was introduced on September 14 to prevent large gatherings indoors and outdoors .
The latest rules mean people will not be able to visit Aldi in groups larger than six .
Those caught breaking the rules face a £100 fine each time they are caught , and a fines can be increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does not mean that only six people will be allowed in stores .
Venues will be allowed to host more than six people as long as they are following Covid-19 guidelines .
You can find more information on the Aldi website right here .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Chris  Harper)

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As coronavirus cases continue to rise in the UK, the Government has brought in a new rule to prevent large groups from gathering.
Now, you can not gather in more than groups of six, inside and outside, or you might risk being fined.
The new rules and guidelines means it could interfere with how many of us shop on a daily or weekly basis depending on when you shop.
Aldi is one of the most popular stores in the UK with amazing deals where hundreds of thousands of Brits visit every single day.
So what do the new rules mean for regular Aldi shoppers and how does the Rule of Six apply? Do I have to wear a face mask and what happens if I don't?
We've complied what the supermarket giant has said in regards to the new rules so you can be more informed.
Face coverings
From July 24, the Government made the wearing of face masks mandatory in all supermarkets and retail stores including Aldi. The store has asked people to wear a face mask. However, it makes it clear that staff will be unable to enforce the rules.
The best time to visit
Many of us want to avoid the supermarket when it is the most busiest and Aldi has released a helpful diagram to show when you might want to visit.
(Image: Aldi)
Rule of Six
The new Rule of Six was introduced on September 14 to prevent large gatherings indoors and outdoors. The latest rules mean people will not be able to visit Aldi in groups larger than six.
Those caught breaking the rules face a £100 fine each time they are caught, and a fines can be increased up to £3,200.
However, that does not mean that only six people will be allowed in stores. Venues will be allowed to host more than six people as long as they are following Covid-19 guidelines.
You can find more information on the Aldi website right here.


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Criminals who 'weaponise Covid' on the rise, police boss warns

Police officers across Worcestershire are increasingly having to deal with suspects using spitting and Covid-19 as a weapon , the region 's police and crime commissioner has said .
John Campion from West Mercia Police has called for tougher sentences against those who spit or cough on officers after a surge in such assaults .
Between March and July 2020 , the force recorded 23 ‘ Covid-19 ’ related assaults , where perpetrators coughed at officers after claiming to have the virus .
There were also 29 assaults where officers were spat at in the same period .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ John Campion said .
`` Coronavirus in recent months has brought many sections of our society together .
`` It was awe-inspiring to be stood on the doorstep with hundreds of thousands of others across our communities applauding our emergency service workers .
`` Yet at the same time , some sections of our society use the pandemic against police officers .
“ The lockdown period , despite having an overall positive affect on reported crime , saw an increase in officer assaults , and in particular assaults where people were claiming to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that , at a time when the country were clapping every Thursday for emergency service workers , that some made the decision to weaponise Covid-19 in order to create stress and anxiety for officers and their families .
“ I have made no secret of my support for increased sentencing for those that assault emergency service workers and I will continue to champion this cause .
`` It ’ s only then that we will send a clear message that assaults on those that serve to protect society will be met with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already had to deal with these consequenes .
Said Khalid for example was one of the people handed a jail sentence after spitting at an officer in Worcestershire .
The 28-year-old , of no fixed address , spat at and lashed out at a police officer at Great Malvern Station , Station Approach on July 6 .
At around 10pm , railway staff called police officers to the scene - where Khalid then spat at and kicked an officer .
He was arrested and charged with assaulting an emergency worker before he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ernest ‘ Ernie ’ Taylor meanwhile spat at a police officer and caused criminal damage in Worcestershire on the first day of lockdown easing in July .
The 33-year-old , from High Street in Stourport , lashed out after officers responded to reports of a violent incident on the same street on Super Saturday , July 4 .
He was arrested after spitting at a police officer and convicted at Kidderminster Magistrates ’ Court on Tuesday , July 7 .
He was handed swift justice with a 16-week jail sentence over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Police officers across Worcestershire are increasingly having to deal with suspects using spitting and Covid-19 as a weapon, the region's police and crime commissioner has said.
John Campion from West Mercia Police has called for tougher sentences against those who spit or cough on officers after a surge in such assaults.
Between March and July 2020, the force recorded 23 ‘Covid-19’ related assaults, where perpetrators coughed at officers after claiming to have the virus.
There were also 29 assaults where officers were spat at in the same period.
"It makes me feel really sad," John Campion said. "Coronavirus in recent months has brought many sections of our society together.
"It was awe-inspiring to be stood on the doorstep with hundreds of thousands of others across our communities applauding our emergency service workers.
"Yet at the same time, some sections of our society use the pandemic against police officers.
“The lockdown period, despite having an overall positive affect on reported crime, saw an increase in officer assaults, and in particular assaults where people were claiming to have Covid-19.
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“It is saddening that, at a time when the country were clapping every Thursday for emergency service workers, that some made the decision to weaponise Covid-19 in order to create stress and anxiety for officers and their families.
“I have made no secret of my support for increased sentencing for those that assault emergency service workers and I will continue to champion this cause.
"It’s only then that we will send a clear message that assaults on those that serve to protect society will be met with the severest of consequences.”
Several perpetrators have already had to deal with these consequenes. Said Khalid for example was one of the people handed a jail sentence after spitting at an officer in Worcestershire.
The 28-year-old, of no fixed address, spat at and lashed out at a police officer at Great Malvern Station, Station Approach on July 6.
At around 10pm, railway staff called police officers to the scene - where Khalid then spat at and kicked an officer.
He was arrested and charged with assaulting an emergency worker before he was jailed for six months for his crime.
Ernest ‘Ernie’ Taylor meanwhile spat at a police officer and caused criminal damage in Worcestershire on the first day of lockdown easing in July.
The 33-year-old, from High Street in Stourport, lashed out after officers responded to reports of a violent incident on the same street on Super Saturday, July 4.
He was arrested after spitting at a police officer and convicted at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, July 7.
He was handed swift justice with a 16-week jail sentence over the offence branded 'disgusting' by a Superintendent.


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Citizens need to be 'relentless' to control soaring Covid-19 infection spread

The people of Birmingham need to be `` relentless in our efforts to control the spread '' of the coronavirus and save lives , a council chief has warned .
Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward said there had been a `` worrying rise '' in the rate of infections after figures , for the seven days to September 8 , showed a rise of 1,000 new cases in the city , with a rate of 90 per 100,000 people .
The new `` Rule of Six '' has been brought in across the nation and Birmingham itself faces a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Birmingham residents will not be able to mix with any other households indoors or in private gardens , except for those in a support bubble .
Taking to Twitter , Coun Ward urged people to do their bit to help drive down the Covid-19 infection rate .
`` These changes have been prompted by a very worrying rise in the rate of infection across the city and it 's vital we now all play our part to drive the rate back down , '' he said .
`` I know this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to seeing friends and family , but it is vital we stick to these rules and protect each other .
`` People across Birmingham have sacrificed so much in the last six months and the city has pulled together at the most challenging of times .
`` But the virus has not gone away , it has not weakened , in fact it is relentless and we must be relentless in our efforts to control the spread .
`` So please follow the new rules to protect yourself , your loved ones , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , continue to wash your hands regularly , wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and if you feel unwell get a test .
`` If we all play our part , we can drive the Coronavirus infection rates back down in Birmingham and save lives . ''

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The people of Birmingham need to be "relentless in our efforts to control the spread" of the coronavirus and save lives, a council chief has warned.
Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward said there had been a "worrying rise" in the rate of infections after figures, for the seven days to September 8, showed a rise of 1,000 new cases in the city, with a rate of 90 per 100,000 people.
The new "Rule of Six" has been brought in across the nation and Birmingham itself faces a local lockdown from Tuesday, September 15.
Birmingham residents will not be able to mix with any other households indoors or in private gardens, except for those in a support bubble.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Taking to Twitter, Coun Ward urged people to do their bit to help drive down the Covid-19 infection rate.
"These changes have been prompted by a very worrying rise in the rate of infection across the city and it's vital we now all play our part to drive the rate back down," he said.
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"I know this is difficult particularly when we have got used to seeing friends and family, but it is vital we stick to these rules and protect each other.
"People across Birmingham have sacrificed so much in the last six months and the city has pulled together at the most challenging of times.
"But the virus has not gone away, it has not weakened, in fact it is relentless and we must be relentless in our efforts to control the spread.
"So please follow the new rules to protect yourself, your loved ones, friends and colleagues.
"In addition, continue to wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and if you feel unwell get a test.
"If we all play our part, we can drive the Coronavirus infection rates back down in Birmingham and save lives."


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Latest airport jobs misery with 239 posts at risk

Up to 239 jobs are at risk as part of “ crucial restructuring plans ” at a major UK airport .
The proposals mean 35 per cent of roles could be lost across London City Airport , which was closed for almost three months from March 25 because of the coronavirus crisis .
A consultation has begun with staff on ways of reducing costs , including through voluntary redundancy , which follows similar measures at Birmingham Airport .
Chief executive Robert Sinclair said : “ It is with huge regret that we are announcing this restructuring programme today and our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ valued staff and their families .
“ The aviation sector is in the throes of the biggest downturn it has ever experienced as a result of the pandemic .
We have held off looking at job losses for as long as possible , but sadly we are not immune from the devastating impact of this virus .
“ Our focus in the coming weeks is to help all staff through this exceptionally difficult period .
We are committed to playing our part in rebuilding a stronger local and national economy once the worst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the difficult decisions we are taking now will enable the airport to bounce back in a better shape when growth returns.
” London 's Heathrow Airport has previously warned up to 1,200 frontline jobs are at risk as a result of the downturn .
Bosses have started consultations with unions over pay cuts and changes to benefits , in a process which could lead to job losses .
The airport said in a statement : `` Covid-19 has decimated the aviation industry , which has led to an unprecedented drop in passenger numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £1billion since the start of March .
`` Provisional traffic figures for August show passenger numbers remain 82 per cent down on last year and we must urgently adapt to this new reality .
`` Discussions with our unions have taken place over four months and our final offer is informed by feedback we have received from them .
`` But with air travel showing little sign of recovery , these discussions can not go on indefinitely and we must act now to prevent our situation from worsening .
`` We have now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our unions on our offer , which still guarantees a job at the airport for anyone who wishes to stay with our business . ''
In July , Heathrow reported passenger numbers were down by more than 96 per cent in the second quarter of the year .

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Up to 239 jobs are at risk as part of “crucial restructuring plans” at a major UK airport.
The proposals mean 35 per cent of roles could be lost across London City Airport, which was closed for almost three months from March 25 because of the coronavirus crisis.
A consultation has begun with staff on ways of reducing costs, including through voluntary redundancy, which follows similar measures at Birmingham Airport.
Chief executive Robert Sinclair said: “It is with huge regret that we are announcing this restructuring programme today and our thoughts are with all of our highly valued staff and their families.
“The aviation sector is in the throes of the biggest downturn it has ever experienced as a result of the pandemic. We have held off looking at job losses for as long as possible, but sadly we are not immune from the devastating impact of this virus.
“Our focus in the coming weeks is to help all staff through this exceptionally difficult period. We are committed to playing our part in rebuilding a stronger local and national economy once the worst of the downturn passes and believe that the difficult decisions we are taking now will enable the airport to bounce back in a better shape when growth returns.”
(Image: Get Surrey)
London's Heathrow Airport has previously warned up to 1,200 frontline jobs are at risk as a result of the downturn.
Bosses have started consultations with unions over pay cuts and changes to benefits, in a process which could lead to job losses.
The airport said in a statement: "Covid-19 has decimated the aviation industry, which has led to an unprecedented drop in passenger numbers at Heathrow, costing the airport over £1billion since the start of March.
"Provisional traffic figures for August show passenger numbers remain 82 per cent down on last year and we must urgently adapt to this new reality.
"Discussions with our unions have taken place over four months and our final offer is informed by feedback we have received from them.
"But with air travel showing little sign of recovery, these discussions cannot go on indefinitely and we must act now to prevent our situation from worsening.
"We have now started a period of formal consultation with our unions on our offer, which still guarantees a job at the airport for anyone who wishes to stay with our business."
In July, Heathrow reported passenger numbers were down by more than 96 per cent in the second quarter of the year.


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Greek mainland and Italy at risk of being added to UK Government quarantine list

Rising rate of coronavirus infections in Italy , mainland Greece and Denmark could see the countries added to the UK 's quarantine list this week .
The move would cause havoc for thousands of British holidaymakers abroad - with the destinations following Portugal , Spain , France and several Greek islands on to the list of nations covered by quarantine restrictions .
The three countries are currently in the 'amber zone ' , but a rise in infections could shift the locations into the red zone of countries from which arrivals must self-isolate for 14 days upon return , reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cumulative number of cases over seven days at 28.7 infections per 100,000 people .
This is over the Government 's threshold of 20 but less than the UK 's rate of 31.5 .
Italy 's new daily cases per 100,000 people are 16.5 and Greece is 15.4 , newspapers have reported The Department for Transport normally announces any additions to the quarantine list on Thursday evening with travellers allowed until 4am on Saturday to return before the new rules come into force .
Portugal was again subjected to quarantine restrictions at the weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but essential travel to the country .
Quarantine restrictions on travellers returning from mainland Portugal to the UK were reintroduced less than a month after rules were relaxed .
Seven of the Greek islands were also added to the quarantine list in England last week .
A DfT spokesman explained : `` We keep the data for all countries and territories under constant review and update our exemptions list with any changes on a regular basis . ''

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Danya Bazaraa, Brett Gibbons)

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Rising rate of coronavirus infections in Italy, mainland Greece and Denmark could see the countries added to the UK's quarantine list this week.
The move would cause havoc for thousands of British holidaymakers abroad - with the destinations following Portugal, Spain, France and several Greek islands on to the list of nations covered by quarantine restrictions.
The three countries are currently in the 'amber zone', but a rise in infections could shift the locations into the red zone of countries from which arrivals must self-isolate for 14 days upon return, reports MirrorOnline.
Latest figures show Denmark's cumulative number of cases over seven days at 28.7 infections per 100,000 people.
This is over the Government's threshold of 20 but less than the UK's rate of 31.5.
Italy's new daily cases per 100,000 people are 16.5 and Greece is 15.4, newspapers have reported
The Department for Transport normally announces any additions to the quarantine list on Thursday evening with travellers allowed until 4am on Saturday to return before the new rules come into force.
Portugal was again subjected to quarantine restrictions at the weekend after the UK Government warned against all but essential travel to the country.
Quarantine restrictions on travellers returning from mainland Portugal to the UK were reintroduced less than a month after rules were relaxed.
Seven of the Greek islands were also added to the quarantine list in England last week.
A DfT spokesman explained: "We keep the data for all countries and territories under constant review and update our exemptions list with any changes on a regular basis."


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Popular store returns to intu Merry Hill

Following huge demand last year , the store is back and bigger than ever , offering visitors plenty of spooky surprises and even more choice .
It 's packed with classic costumes , horror masks , make-up and home décor plus a selection of large animated props , including a 10-foot pumpkin lord and a fortune-telling skeleton .
Situated on the upper mall near Next , Halloween House joins a number of stores that have recently opened at the Brierley Hill shopping centre following lockdown , including women ’ s fashion brand Apricot and cheese store Chuckling Cheese .
Rachael @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hill said : “ We ’ re excited to welcome back Halloween House , which was hugely popular with our visitors last year and their opening adds to an already growing number of brands , who have opened up a store this year and are flourishing .
“ Our visitors have been doing their part to keep themselves and others safe , and with 96 per cent of stores now open , it ’ s a great time to welcome yet another store to the centre.
” Julie Platt , store manager at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really excited to be back at intu Merry Hill after a really successful spell last year and we are looking forward to welcoming customers into our spooktactular new store .
“ Last year we saw shoppers travelling from all over the Midlands to visit us and we look forward to offering them a shopping experience like no other .
“ New for this year , customers will also be able to order online and collect their purchase in-store.
” Halloween House will also be reopening as Christmas House in November , where visitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and more for the festive season .

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Popular pop-up store Halloween House has returned to intu Merry Hill.
Following huge demand last year, the store is back and bigger than ever, offering visitors plenty of spooky surprises and even more choice.
It's packed with classic costumes, horror masks, make-up and home décor plus a selection of large animated props, including a 10-foot pumpkin lord and a fortune-telling skeleton.
(Image: Shaun Fellows / Shine Pix Ltd)
Situated on the upper mall near Next, Halloween House joins a number of stores that have recently opened at the Brierley Hill shopping centre following lockdown, including women’s fashion brand Apricot and cheese store Chuckling Cheese.
Rachael Jackson, general manager at intu Merry Hill said: “We’re excited to welcome back Halloween House, which was hugely popular with our visitors last year and their opening adds to an already growing number of brands, who have opened up a store this year and are flourishing.
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“Our visitors have been doing their part to keep themselves and others safe, and with 96 per cent of stores now open, it’s a great time to welcome yet another store to the centre.”
Julie Platt, store manager at Halloween House added: “We are really excited to be back at intu Merry Hill after a really successful spell last year and we are looking forward to welcoming customers into our spooktactular new store.
“Last year we saw shoppers travelling from all over the Midlands to visit us and we look forward to offering them a shopping experience like no other.
“New for this year, customers will also be able to order online and collect their purchase in-store.”
Halloween House will also be reopening as Christmas House in November, where visitors can stock up on decorations, gifts and more for the festive season.


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Live - Six people in hospital after potentially deadly disease outbreak

Six people are in hospital after a Legionnaire 's disease outbreak in West Bromwich .
Public and environmental health experts from Public Health England ( PHE ) Midlands , the Health and Safety Executive and Sandwell Council are investigating .
Health chiefs said they had confirmed three cases of Legionnaire 's disease with six more suspected , all in the West Bromwich area .
Eight of these cases were reported to PHE in the last week and a single case reported in July has now been linked to this outbreak .
Dr Adrian Philips , Consultant in Communicable Disease Control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` While we do not currently have a direct link between these cases , the evidence we have points to the possibility that there is a common source .
`` We are taking detailed histories of the movements of the individuals to see if there are similar patterns which would help to identify a common local source of infection .
`` Legionnaires ' disease is a rare but potentially life-threatening illness .
It is caused by a bacterium commonly associated with water systems and can not be passed from person to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are working with the Health and Safety Executive and Sandwell Council to identify and control any possible sources of the disease . ''
A Sandwell Council spokesman said : `` The council is working closely with PHE and the Health & Safety Executive to find the source of this outbreak and we will continue to do everything we can to support the investigation . ''

Six people are in hospital after a Legionnaire's disease outbreak in West Bromwich.
Public and environmental health experts from Public Health England (PHE)Midlands, the Health and Safety Executive and Sandwell Council are investigating.
Health chiefs said they had confirmed three cases of Legionnaire's disease with six more suspected, all in the West Bromwich area.
Eight of these cases were reported to PHE in the last week and a single case reported in July has now been linked to this outbreak.
Dr Adrian Philips, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control, PHE Midlands Health Protection Team, said: "While we do not currently have a direct link between these cases, the evidence we have points to the possibility that there is a common source.
"We are taking detailed histories of the movements of the individuals to see if there are similar patterns which would help to identify a common local source of infection.
"Legionnaires' disease is a rare but potentially life-threatening illness. It is caused by a bacterium commonly associated with water systems and cannot be passed from person to person.
"As a precaution we are working with the Health and Safety Executive and Sandwell Council to identify and control any possible sources of the disease."
A Sandwell Council spokesman said: "The council is working closely with PHE and the Health & Safety Executive to find the source of this outbreak and we will continue to do everything we can to support the investigation."


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Man dies in water at reservoir beauty spot

A man has died at a Worcestershire reservoir despite a huge emergency response .
It happened at Trimpley Reservoir in Bewdley on Sunday morning , September 13 .
Police , fire and ambulance crews were sent to the scene with witnesses reporting around 20 999 personnel attending .
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it sent an ambulance , two paramedic officers and a hazardous area response team to the scene .
A spokesman for the service said : “ We were called at 10.45am on Sunday to reports of a patient in the water at Trimpley Reservoir in Bewdley .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ – a man – who was still in the water .
He was recovered from the water , believed to be by fire crews .
“ Unfortunately it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.
” Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service deployed two boats , two fire engines and a drone to the scene - with the drone not needed .
A spokeswoman for West Mercia Police said : “ A man ’ s body has been found in Trimpley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body was located at just before 10.45am on Sunday 13 September and recovered from the water .
A short while later he was pronounced dead .
“ Formal identification has not yet taken place but officers are not treating his death as suspicious.
” The news comes a month after a teenager was found dead at another Wyre Forest water site – at Shavers End Quarry , known as ‘ Blue Lagoon ’ in Dunley near Stourport-on-Severn .
Haider Ali , aged 17 , from Bordesley Green in Birmingham was reported missing after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday , August 12 .
His body was found shortly before 5pm the following day .

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A man has died at a Worcestershire reservoir despite a huge emergency response.
It happened at Trimpley Reservoir in Bewdley on Sunday morning, September 13.
Police, fire and ambulance crews were sent to the scene with witnesses reporting around 20 999 personnel attending.
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it sent an ambulance, two paramedic officers and a hazardous area response team to the scene.
A spokesman for the service said: “We were called at 10.45am on Sunday to reports of a patient in the water at Trimpley Reservoir in Bewdley.
“On arrival our crews one patient – a man – who was still in the water. He was recovered from the water, believed to be by fire crews.
“Unfortunately it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service deployed two boats, two fire engines and a drone to the scene - with the drone not needed.
A spokeswoman for West Mercia Police said: “A man’s body has been found in Trimpley Resorvoir, near Kidderminster.
“The body was located at just before 10.45am on Sunday 13 September and recovered from the water. A short while later he was pronounced dead.
“Formal identification has not yet taken place but officers are not treating his death as suspicious.”
The news comes a month after a teenager was found dead at another Wyre Forest water site – at Shavers End Quarry, known as ‘Blue Lagoon’ in Dunley near Stourport-on-Severn.
Haider Ali, aged 17, from Bordesley Green in Birmingham was reported missing after going in to the water at 4.45pm on Wednesday, August 12.
His body was found shortly before 5pm the following day.


birminghammail--2020-09-14--'No doubt' - Moore makes promise after Tulloch loan move

Darren Moore is delighted that West Brom have permitted attacker Rayhaan Tulloch to join up with his Doncaster Rovers side for the season .
Ex- Albion boss Moore , now in charge of League One Rovers , has borrowed youngster Tulloch - a player he knows particularly well - for the campaign and gave him a debut on Saturday in the 1-1 draw with MK Dons at the Keepmoat Stadium .
Make sure you do n't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Albion newsletter Tulloch , 19 , was given his Albion debut by Moore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in January 2019 and , having committed his long-term future to The Hawthorns this summer , has been allowed to reunite with his old youth-team boss in Yorkshire ahead of a promotion push .
Tulloch played 75 minutes on Saturday before being withdrawn .
Moore believes a season in League One will ensure that he returns to Albion next summer a better player .
“ He ’ s one that I ’ ve known for many years and it ’ s good to see him now , ” Moore told the Doncaster Free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with him when he was with the U12s or U14s and now he ’ s on the front line .
“ We knew then he was going to be a top , top player .
You ’ ve seen a small cameo of what he can do .
I ’ ve just got to add things to his game now , where he ’ ll be more effective going forward .
“ I ’ m really pleased and grateful for West Brom allowing us to have the opportunity to have him here with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give him first team football and whenever the time comes to hand him back , he ’ ll be a better player no doubt .
”

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Darren Moore is delighted that West Brom have permitted attacker Rayhaan Tulloch to join up with his Doncaster Rovers side for the season.
Ex- Albion boss Moore, now in charge of League One Rovers, has borrowed youngster Tulloch - a player he knows particularly well - for the campaign and gave him a debut on Saturday in the 1-1 draw with MK Dons at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Make sure you don't miss a thing - click here to sign up to our Albion newsletter
Tulloch, 19, was given his Albion debut by Moore in the FA Cup tie with Brighton in January 2019 and, having committed his long-term future to The Hawthorns this summer, has been allowed to reunite with his old youth-team boss in Yorkshire ahead of a promotion push.
Tulloch played 75 minutes on Saturday before being withdrawn. Moore believes a season in League One will ensure that he returns to Albion next summer a better player.
“He’s one that I’ve known for many years and it’s good to see him now,” Moore told the Doncaster Free Press. “I was probably working with him when he was with the U12s or U14s and now he’s on the front line.
“We knew then he was going to be a top, top player. You’ve seen a small cameo of what he can do. I’ve just got to add things to his game now, where he’ll be more effective going forward.
“I’m really pleased and grateful for West Brom allowing us to have the opportunity to have him here with us.
“Our job is to give him first team football and whenever the time comes to hand him back, he’ll be a better player no doubt.”


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Why Jose Mourinho was 'crazy' about Aston Villa transfer target Bertrand Traore

Aston Villa are closing in on a move for Olympique Lyon striker Bertrand Traore .
According to reports , Traore is set to sign a three-year deal with Dean Smith 's side with Villa having agreed a £17 million fee with Lyon .
Traore returns to English football three years after his departure from Chelsea , whom he joined from French side Auxerre in 2013 .
The Burkina Faso international arrived at Stamford Bridge while current Tottenham Hotspur boss Jose Mourinho was in charge of Chelsea .
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for Milot Rashica transfer updates Why should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strongly linked with a move for the Werder Bremen star , with fans excitedly awaiting his possible arrival .
With that in mind , we will bring you all the news around the Albanian winger 's future .
In our daily Aston Villa bulletin , we 'll be bringing you the latest breaking news , transfer features and comment pieces , as well as the key talking points for fans .
How do you sign up ?
It 's easy and only takes seconds .
Simply type your email address into the box @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit sign up .
And that 's it , you 're all set .
You can also sign up here .
If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails , simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we do n't think you 'll want to .
And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store Mourinho only played Traore three times , though , with the 25 year-old spending most of his time away from Chelsea and Mourinho would leave the club in 2015 two years before the player 's exit on a permanent deal to Lyon .
Peter Bosz , who managed Traore during loan spells with Vitesse and Ajax , claimed back in 2015 that two-time Champions League winner Mourinho was 'crazy ' about Villa target Traore .
`` Jose Mourinho @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf while Traore was on loan at Ajax .
`` If the opportunity is there , they will prefer to take him back . ''
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here Bosz , under whom Traore scored 33 times in 90 appearances , criticised Traore in 2016 during his time at Ajax .
`` I do not believe that all 50,000 fans see him doing wrong , '' he said .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was expected , but that casually sits in his game .
`` Even if he plays well ; people demand more , he needs to learn to live with that . ''
More recently , Lyon boss Rudi Garcia praised Traore back in April for improving his game .
`` He 's a player , a man I like , '' he said .
`` A left-hander , an attacker , a dribbler , we need it .
We worked with Bertrand to make it less readable .
`` He can overflow his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in one touch .
He can do very , very good things .
`` He will finish the season better than he started .
I highly value him , he needs to be given confidence . ''

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Aston Villa are closing in on a move for Olympique Lyon striker Bertrand Traore.
According to reports, Traore is set to sign a three-year deal with Dean Smith's side with Villa having agreed a £17 million fee with Lyon.
Traore returns to English football three years after his departure from Chelsea, whom he joined from French side Auxerre in 2013.
The Burkina Faso international arrived at Stamford Bridge while current Tottenham Hotspur boss Jose Mourinho was in charge of Chelsea.
Sign up to our Villa newsletter for Morgan Sanson transfer updates Why should you sign up? Villa have been strongly linked with a move for the Marseille star, with fans excitedly awaiting his possible arrival. With that in mind, we will bring you all the news around the French midfielder's future. In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Mourinho only played Traore three times, though, with the 25 year-old spending most of his time away from Chelsea and Mourinho would leave the club in 2015 two years before the player's exit on a permanent deal to Lyon.
Peter Bosz, who managed Traore during loan spells with Vitesse and Ajax, claimed back in 2015 that two-time Champions League winner Mourinho was 'crazy' about Villa target Traore.
"Jose Mourinho is crazy about him," Bosz said to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf while Traore was on loan at Ajax.
"If the opportunity is there, they will prefer to take him back."
Sign up for our Villa newsletter with your email in the box at the top of the page or click here
Bosz, under whom Traore scored 33 times in 90 appearances, criticised Traore in 2016 during his time at Ajax.
"I do not believe that all 50,000 fans see him doing wrong," he said.
"I agree with you that more of Bertrand was expected, but that casually sits in his game.
"Even if he plays well; people demand more, he needs to learn to live with that."
More recently, Lyon boss Rudi Garcia praised Traore back in April for improving his game.
"He's a player, a man I like," he said. "A left-hander, an attacker, a dribbler, we need it. We worked with Bertrand to make it less readable.
"He can overflow his right foot, play with others, in one touch. He can do very, very good things.
"He will finish the season better than he started. I highly value him, he needs to be given confidence."


birminghammail--2020-09-14--Brummies told to drive 70 miles for coronavirus tests

MPs have condemned `` chaos '' in the coronavirus testing system after some West Midlands residents were told the nearest testing site was more than 70 miles away .
Others using the official government website were told there were simply no Covid-19 tests available .
At the same time , there were reports that people who took a chance and simply turned up to testing centres in Birmingham were able to obtain a test on the spot .
MP Steve McCabe ( Lab Selly Oak ) said `` It 's a shambles .
There may be testing available , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to access . ''
In recent days , residents in areas hit by high levels of coronavirus infections have highlighted the problems they face obtaining tests , on social media .
Solihull mother Tracey Hurst said on Twitter that the official website told her the nearest available drive through testing centre was in Oldham , 77 miles away from her location , and even suggested travelling to Edinburgh .
She eventually obtained a test for her son through his school .
Birmingham man Ian Robo also revealed he had been directed to Oldham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she had been unable to obtain a test for her daughter .
A student nurse studying at Birmingham City University also said she had been unable to obtain a test .
Mr McCabe said that a number of his constituents had experienced similar problems .
Although tests might be available , the official website suggested they were not .
He said : `` Over the last few days I have had a string of people contact me about difficulties obtaining tests .
`` One mother contacted me and said she had been offered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away .
Then she managed to get test by going to a site in Edgbaston , where she was able to get tested in 20 minutes .
`` There are two possibilities .
One is that the whole system is just a mess .
The other is that they are deliberately limiting the number of people who are tested , because of lack of capacity in the laboratories .
`` We are told that they have bought in extra testing in to Birmingham but I have yet to find a constituent who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There is testing at the University of Birmingham , but people are n't being directed there . ''
Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey ( Lab ) said : `` You could n't make this up .
First , Boris Johnson promised a world-beating testing system .
The simple and sad reality is that the British people are being badly let down , putting at risk the lives of thousands of our citizens .
`` There are more and more cases of chaos , confusion and real difficulties in getting a test .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ force in Birmingham , Solihull and Sandwell tomorrow ( Tuesday ) , following a surge in cases in the region .
Residents are barred from visiting anyone from a different household in their home or garden , or from allowing people from a different household into their own home or garden .
A household means people who live together .
Relatives , including parents or children , are members of a different household if they live in a different property .
A free 'drop and collect ' service launched today ( Monday ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council and NHS staff .
Trained public sector staff - accompanied by volunteers - will work in streets and neighbourhoods where cases are clustered but also in areas where testing take-up has been unusually low .
They will be knocking on doors at random offering tests .
It means entire households can get an instant test - even if they do n't have coronavirus symptoms .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock last week said difficulties obtaining tests were related to too many people applying for tests when they do n't need one .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for tests , which is “ not appropriate ” , he said .
He also said some people who were going on holiday had sought a test , which is “ not what the testing system is here for ” .
He said : “ The message is clear that if you ’ re not eligible for a test – if you don ’ t have symptoms or you haven ’ t been asked to get a test , specifically by clinician or by local authority – then you shouldn ’ t be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because it makes it harder for people who really need them to get those tests .
”

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MPs have condemned "chaos" in the coronavirus testing system after some West Midlands residents were told the nearest testing site was more than 70 miles away.
Others using the official government website were told there were simply no Covid-19 tests available.
At the same time, there were reports that people who took a chance and simply turned up to testing centres in Birmingham were able to obtain a test on the spot.
MP Steve McCabe (Lab Selly Oak) said "It's a shambles. There may be testing available, but people are finding it difficult or impossible to access."
In recent days, residents in areas hit by high levels of coronavirus infections have highlighted the problems they face obtaining tests, on social media.
Solihull mother Tracey Hurst said on Twitter that the official website told her the nearest available drive through testing centre was in Oldham, 77 miles away from her location, and even suggested travelling to Edinburgh. She eventually obtained a test for her son through his school.
Birmingham man Ian Robo also revealed he had been directed to Oldham.
Kings Norton mother Anne-Marie Whitehouse said she had been unable to obtain a test for her daughter.
A student nurse studying at Birmingham City University also said she had been unable to obtain a test.
Mr McCabe said that a number of his constituents had experienced similar problems. Although tests might be available, the official website suggested they were not.
He said: "Over the last few days I have had a string of people contact me about difficulties obtaining tests.
"One mother contacted me and said she had been offered a test for her child 60 miles away. Then she managed to get test by going to a site in Edgbaston, where she was able to get tested in 20 minutes.
"There are two possibilities. One is that the whole system is just a mess. The other is that they are deliberately limiting the number of people who are tested, because of lack of capacity in the laboratories.
"We are told that they have bought in extra testing in to Birmingham but I have yet to find a constituent who has been able to make use of it. There is testing at the University of Birmingham, but people aren't being directed there."
Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey (Lab) said: "You couldn't make this up. First, Boris Johnson promised a world-beating testing system. The simple and sad reality is that the British people are being badly let down, putting at risk the lives of thousands of our citizens.
"There are more and more cases of chaos, confusion and real difficulties in getting a test."
New restrictions on socialising come into force in Birmingham, Solihull and Sandwell tomorrow (Tuesday), following a surge in cases in the region.
Residents are barred from visiting anyone from a different household in their home or garden, or from allowing people from a different household into their own home or garden.
A household means people who live together. Relatives, including parents or children, are members of a different household if they live in a different property.
A free 'drop and collect' service launched today (Monday) in BIrmingham and is being run by the council and NHS staff.
Trained public sector staff - accompanied by volunteers - will work in streets and neighbourhoods where cases are clustered but also in areas where testing take-up has been unusually low.
They will be knocking on doors at random offering tests. It means entire households can get an instant test - even if they don't have coronavirus symptoms.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock last week said difficulties obtaining tests were related to too many people applying for tests when they don't need one.
One school sent a whole year group for tests, which is “not appropriate”, he said. He also said some people who were going on holiday had sought a test, which is “not what the testing system is here for”.
He said: “The message is clear that if you’re not eligible for a test – if you don’t have symptoms or you haven’t been asked to get a test, specifically by clinician or by local authority – then you shouldn’t be coming forward to get a test, because it makes it harder for people who really need them to get those tests.”