birminghammail--2020-08-24--'They are obviously not listening' - Disbelief as Covid-19 cases rise

People have reacted furiously to revelations that Covid-19 cases are continuing to rise across Sandwell .
BlackCountryLive readers have hit out at 'lockdown flouters ' after Sandwell Council said the infection level had reached a 'very high levels ' .
The authority issued an urgent warning as 34 new cases have been confirmed in the last seven days .
Multiple cases within households and extended family gatherings are one of the main ways the virus is spreading in the town .
There have also been outbreaks associated with businesses , including pubs .
Public health and council bosses are urging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Deputy Leader of Sandwell Council Councillor Maria Crompton said : `` Cases in Smethwick are continuing to rise and we have more cases in the Smethwick area than any of Sandwell 's other towns .
`` COVID-19 is a potentially fatal illness .
We need people to take things seriously and prevent the spread of the virus .
`` We are working intensively in Smethwick with community leaders , faith leaders and businesses to get the message across .
`` I ’ d urge people not to arrange get-togethers , to not visit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure they wear masks in shops and in on public transport .
`` We have a testing centre in the centre of Smethwick where anyone who is concerned about symptoms or feeling unwell can get tested .
`` People need to take notice now and help us to stop the rise in cases in Smethwick . ''
But many have blasted those that have not heeded the advice and said 'enough was enough ' .
Jayne Marvin said : `` Put them on lockdown then - before the whole of Sandwell has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ listening . ''
While Johnny Smith added : `` Why ca n't people stick to the rules ?
It really is n't hard .
We could have beat this disease in a few months - but it is now dragging on . ''
Yet others have stated that the rise in cases could be due to the increase in testing .
Florance Jane wrote : `` Maybe it 's just that more testing is being done and that 's why numbers are higher . ''
The council can offer free , tailored risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its infection control .
Social distancing , face coverings and not having anyone in the workplace with symptoms are all crucial .
Business owners who need advice can get in touch via the website at www.healthysandwell.co.uk/COVID

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People have reacted furiously to revelations that Covid-19 cases are continuing to rise across Sandwell.
BlackCountryLive readers have hit out at 'lockdown flouters' after Sandwell Council said the infection level had reached a 'very high levels'.
The authority issued an urgent warning as 34 new cases have been confirmed in the last seven days.
Multiple cases within households and extended family gatherings are one of the main ways the virus is spreading in the town. There have also been outbreaks associated with businesses, including pubs.
Public health and council bosses are urging residents to take the situation seriously.
Deputy Leader of Sandwell Council Councillor Maria Crompton said : "Cases in Smethwick are continuing to rise and we have more cases in the Smethwick area than any of Sandwell's other towns.
"COVID-19 is a potentially fatal illness. We need people to take things seriously and prevent the spread of the virus.
"We are working intensively in Smethwick with community leaders, faith leaders and businesses to get the message across.
"I’d urge people not to arrange get-togethers, to not visit one another inside their homes and to make sure they wear masks in shops and in on public transport.
"We have a testing centre in the centre of Smethwick where anyone who is concerned about symptoms or feeling unwell can get tested.
"People need to take notice now and help us to stop the rise in cases in Smethwick."
But many have blasted those that have not heeded the advice and said 'enough was enough'.
Jayne Marvin said: "Put them on lockdown then - before the whole of Sandwell has to suffer. They are obviously not listening."
While Johnny Smith added: "Why can't people stick to the rules? It really isn't hard. We could have beat this disease in a few months - but it is now dragging on."
Yet others have stated that the rise in cases could be due to the increase in testing.
Florance Jane wrote: "Maybe it's just that more testing is being done and that's why numbers are higher."
And Alan Ledington penned: "More tests = higher numbers. Simple maths."
The council can offer free, tailored risk assessments which can help a business improve its infection control.
Social distancing, face coverings and not having anyone in the workplace with symptoms are all crucial.
Business owners who need advice can get in touch via the website at www.healthysandwell.co.uk/COVID


birminghammail--2020-08-24--500-person outdoor cinema in Birmingham cancelled over fears

Plans for a 500-person outdoor cinema event in Bournbrook have been scrapped due to fears over Covid-19 .
Scenic Cinema , in collaboration with Mockingbird Cinema , had been due to present an application for a temporary alcohol licence to Birmingham City Council for the five-day bank holiday weekend event .
However the application has now been pulled , with the organisers announcing on Facebook that the event had been postponed until Easter weekend 2021 .
Due to run from 10.30am to 10.30pm from August 27 to August 31 at the Rowheath Pavillion in Bournbrook , the event boasted 'something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as many as 485 people expected at any one time to watch the 11 films being screened over five days .
A bar was to be provided throughout the event , too , while a range of street food vendors were also expected including Flying Cows and Yardbird .
West Midlands Police had already voiced their concerns , writing in an objection to the licensing application that the information provided by the applicant 'raises questions around the safety of the event , lack of control measures and it not seemingly being Covid compliant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempted to allay fears around the spread of Covid-19 , with spots at the 'cinema ' only allocated in 'bubbles ' of four or six people and guidelines around the cleaning of headsets between each screening .
However the threat of local lockdown led to organisers taking to Facebook to announce that the event had been delayed .
“ Hi everyone , thanks for bearing with us , '' they wrote in a statement .
`` Due to the rising Corona cases in Birmingham and the uncertainty of us going into a local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to postpone the outdoor cinema until the Easter bank Holiday next year .
`` We feel this is the safest thing to do and will give us more time to get everything ready and put on a really good show for you and your families .
“ Thanks for bearing with us , stay safe , and we will see you all next year ! ''

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Plans for a 500-person outdoor cinema event in Bournville have been scrapped due to fears over Covid-19.
Scenic Cinema, in collaboration with Mockingbird Cinema, had been due to present an application for a temporary alcohol licence to Birmingham City Council for the five-day bank holiday weekend event.
However the application has now been pulled, with the organisers announcing on Facebook that the event had been postponed until Easter weekend 2021.
Due to run from 10.30am to 10.30pm from August 27 to August 31 at the Rowheath Pavillion in Bournville, the event boasted 'something for all the family', with as many as 485 people expected at any one time to watch the 11 films being screened over five days.
A bar was to be provided throughout the event, too, while a range of street food vendors were also expected including Flying Cows and Yardbird.
West Midlands Police had already voiced their concerns, writing in an objection to the licensing application that the information provided by the applicant 'raises questions around the safety of the event, lack of control measures and it not seemingly being Covid compliant with current guidelines.'
Organisers had attempted to allay fears around the spread of Covid-19, with spots at the 'cinema' only allocated in 'bubbles' of four or six people and guidelines around the cleaning of headsets between each screening.
However the threat of local lockdown led to organisers taking to Facebook to announce that the event had been delayed.
“Hi everyone, thanks for bearing with us," they wrote in a statement.
"Due to the rising Corona cases in Birmingham and the uncertainty of us going into a local lockdown we have made the tough choice to postpone the outdoor cinema until the Easter bank Holiday next year.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"We feel this is the safest thing to do and will give us more time to get everything ready and put on a really good show for you and your families.
“Thanks for bearing with us, stay safe, and we will see you all next year!"


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Thug wields huge knife in daylight row outside McDonald's in Small Heath

Terrifying footage shows the moment a thug brandished a gigantic knife during a violent broad daylight confrontation outside a McDonald 's .
Two men can be seen scuffling at the branch of the fast food restaurant after the argument broke out while families with young children dined inside .
The disturbing video was captured by a passenger on a passing bus , who witnessed the drama unfold on Coventry Road , Small Heath , Birmingham over the weekend .
It shows the two men squaring up to each other near the Drive-Thru section before one of them pulls out the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knifeman lunges forward with the weapon on two occasions while the second man manages to fend off the blows during the heated exchange .
At one point a McDonald 's employee comes out to the rear of the restaurant to empty rubbish oblivious to the clash happening just inches away behind the wall .
The pair can be seen continuing to row with each other before the man wielding the blade eventually gives up and walks away in the opposite direction .
The footage , which was obtained by website Birmz Is Grime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands of times since being uploaded to social media .
They wrote : `` rah , look at the size of the knife !
happened outside the coventry road Mc Donald ’ s , Small heath , wonder what they was arguing about ?
# birmingham # brum '' Web users reacted with shock to the 45 second clip of the man brazenly brandishing the deadly weapon in broad daylight .
Tom Parkes said : `` Place would have been packed with families and kids , this is worrying .
Wielding a knife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Lisa Flowers added : `` How the man in the blue jacket did n't just run for his life I 'll never know .
He did well to stand up to him and keep his calm . ''
Phil Hughes put : `` Just another day in Small Heath .
Frightening how this can become the norm . ''

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Terrifying footage shows the moment a thug brandished a gigantic knife during a violent broad daylight confrontation outside a McDonald's.
Two men can be seen scuffling at the branch of the fast food restaurant after the argument broke out while families with young children dined inside.
The disturbing video was captured by a passenger on a passing bus, who witnessed the drama unfold on Coventry Road, Small Heath, Birmingham over the weekend.
It shows the two men squaring up to each other near the Drive-Thru section before one of them pulls out the sinister-looking blade from his jacket.
The knifeman lunges forward with the weapon on two occasions while the second man manages to fend off the blows during the heated exchange.
At one point a McDonald's employee comes out to the rear of the restaurant to empty rubbish oblivious to the clash happening just inches away behind the wall.
The pair can be seen continuing to row with each other before the man wielding the blade eventually gives up and walks away in the opposite direction.
The footage, which was obtained by website Birmz Is Grime, has since been shared and viewed thousands of times since being uploaded to social media.
(Image: Birmz Is Grime / SWNS)
They wrote: "rah, look at the size of the knife! happened outside the coventry road Mc Donald’s, Small heath, wonder what they was arguing about? #birmingham #brum"
Web users reacted with shock to the 45 second clip of the man brazenly brandishing the deadly weapon in broad daylight.
Tom Parkes said: "Place would have been packed with families and kids, this is worrying. Wielding a knife without a care in the world."
(Image: Birmz Is Grime / SWNS)
Lisa Flowers added: "How the man in the blue jacket didn't just run for his life I'll never know. He did well to stand up to him and keep his calm."
Phil Hughes put: "Just another day in Small Heath. Frightening how this can become the norm."


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Piers Morgan rages after being called 'racist' in Boris baby carrier row

Piers Morgan has voiced his fury as he 's accused of dad-shaming Boris Johnson for using a baby sling .
Good Morning Britain star Piers Morgan has hit back at trolls who slammed him for mocking Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's decision to hold his son in a baby carrier .
Piers , 55 , took aim at the PM , 56 , carrying his young son Wilfred in a baby harness on a day out hiking with his partner Carrie Symonds .
Piers tweeted : `` Least surprising news of the Millennium : the man whose woeful handling of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weak ... needs a papoose to carry his baby . ''
`` Please stop using the outdated , racist word papoose ( see : https : //en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papoose ) , '' one replied .
`` The correct terminology is a baby carrier ( or sling if it is a non-structured carrier ) . ''
Piers replied : `` Why are wokies so exhausting ?
It seems a contradiction in terms ... '' He added : `` A papoose is not racist ... '' Your attempt to make it racist is in itself ... racist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` World ’ s most popular poster ... now imagine him using a papoose . ''
`` So today we learned that - shock horror - @ piersmorgan either a terrible parent who never carried a child anywhere or must have a chronically bad back from doing so without a supportive sling - which may account for his mood , '' another wrote .
`` Slings - for those with a backbone . ''
Piers replied : `` Many thanks for your concern over my parenting skills .
`` Given that I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ... and you to one for precisely 9 months , I ’ d probably steer clear of playing the Baby-Whisperer card if I were you . ''
He went on to tweet : `` Mate , I changed so many nappies I ended up being able to do it all one-handed whilst conducting a business call with the other . ''
Piers refused to give up his campaign and went on to write : `` No man ever got sexier wearing a papoose .
Fact . ''

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Piers Morgan has voiced his fury as he's accused of dad-shaming Boris Johnson for using a baby sling.
Good Morning Britain star Piers Morgan has hit back at trolls who slammed him for mocking Prime Minister Boris Johnson's decision to hold his son in a baby carrier.
Piers, 55, took aim at the PM, 56, carrying his young son Wilfred in a baby harness on a day out hiking with his partner Carrie Symonds.
Piers tweeted: "Least surprising news of the Millennium: the man whose woeful handling of the pandemic crisis has been so pathetically weak... needs a papoose to carry his baby."
"Please stop using the outdated, racist word papoose (see: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papoose)," one replied. "The correct terminology is a baby carrier (or sling if it is a non-structured carrier)."
Piers replied: "Why are wokies so exhausting? It seems a contradiction in terms..."
He added: "A papoose is not racist...
"Your attempt to make it racist is in itself... racist."
Piers captioned the shot: "World’s most popular poster... now imagine him using a papoose."
"So today we learned that - shock horror - @piersmorgan either a terrible parent who never carried a child anywhere or must have a chronically bad back from doing so without a supportive sling - which may account for his mood," another wrote.
"Slings - for those with a backbone."
Piers replied: "Many thanks for your concern over my parenting skills.
"Given that I've been one to 4 children for 27 years... and you to one for precisely 9 months, I’d probably steer clear of playing the Baby-Whisperer card if I were you."
He went on to tweet: "Mate, I changed so many nappies I ended up being able to do it all one-handed whilst conducting a business call with the other."
Piers refused to give up his campaign and went on to write: "No man ever got sexier wearing a papoose. Fact."


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Danny Loader's ex-coach on why he was right to go to Porto

Danny Loader has made a ‘ clever move ’ in turning down interest from Leeds and Wolves in favour of a fresh start in Portugal , according to one of his former coaches .
The 20-year-old last week completed a free transfer to Porto where if he makes the first team could find himself playing Champions League football .
He did so despite long-standing interest from Wolves - and widely reported interest from newly-promoted Leeds .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head of Reading ’ s academy , backed the bold decision .
“ It is a clever move for him as well , I think .
Porto is a great club with a great tradition for developing young players .
“ I think it is a really great idea .
He was not really getting the opportunities at Reading so it was time to find somewhere that would challenge him .
“ Danny had eight years at Reading .
Sometimes there is a right moment for a player to move on .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment to try a new challenge .
He could be playing in the Champions League next season .
That is better than playing U23 football for Reading.
” Loader still has some way to go to achieve that , having made only one Championship appearance last season .
He came close to joining Wolves last summer with a deal agreed only for Reading to pull the plug at the last minute .
Manchester United were also linked with Loader , who made 35 first team appearances in total for the Royals .

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Danny Loader has made a ‘clever move’ in turning down interest from Leeds and Wolves in favour of a fresh start in Portugal, according to one of his former coaches.
The 20-year-old last week completed a free transfer to Porto where if he makes the first team could find himself playing Champions League football.
He did so despite long-standing interest from Wolves - and widely reported interest from newly-promoted Leeds.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on 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
And Ged Roddy, the former head of Reading’s academy, backed the bold decision.
“Danny is a huge talent and a fantastic prospect,” Roddy told Sky Sports.
“It is a clever move for him as well, I think. Porto is a great club with a great tradition for developing young players.
“I think it is a really great idea. He was not really getting the opportunities at Reading so it was time to find somewhere that would challenge him.
“Danny had eight years at Reading. Sometimes there is a right moment for a player to move on.
"He probably felt this was a good moment to try a new challenge. He could be playing in the Champions League next season. That is better than playing U23 football for Reading.”
Loader still has some way to go to achieve that, having made only one Championship appearance last season.
He came close to joining Wolves last summer with a deal agreed only for Reading to pull the plug at the last minute.
Manchester United were also linked with Loader, who made 35 first team appearances in total for the Royals.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Nifty new parklet doubles up as a place to eat and drink in city centre

Is it a bird box , a wooden train set or ... have the German Market 's wooden huts come early this year to keep the concrete anti-terror barriers company ?
Well , out of those three questions the answer might only be the first one because the the new timber construction on Waterloo Street is actually a mini park .
No bird is ever likely to nest here , but there might be a feathered visitor or two looking for crumbs when it 's quiet .
Funded by Colmore BID , the mixture of benches , tables and foliage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spots next to the Purecraft Bar & Kitchen close to Victoria Square .
The `` parklet '' as it 's called , will give people the chance to enjoy a bit of outdoor social distancing while they enjoy their lunch next to plants grown by experts at Cofton Nursery .
And to imagine for a few moments at least that they are actually in a park .
Colmore BID director Mike Best tweeted : `` Hoping to roll out more across @ ColmoreBID to support our hospitality sector and make better use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ park their car in the area might have to move on to find one somewhere else as fewer spaces are now available .
The charges on this street , by the way , are £3.50 for one hour , £6 for two hours , £7.50 for three hours and £9 for four hours .
Arrive between 6pm and 7.30pm though and you will be charged £3.50 ... even if you come at 7.15pm and ca n't wait around for 15 minutes to see if a traffic warden will appear at the death .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ also being able to create outdoor areas for food and drink with social distancing Seen from a distance , the aesthetics of the wooden structure are mixed - while it 's nice to see some extra greenery , there are already a few trees nearby in Victoria Square .
Once you are inside the parklet on a normal , quiet day , the view of the architecture of the nearby buildings is a treat and it actually comes closer in to view .
Oh , and there 's one other thing you should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Michelin-starred Adams Restaurant , so it 's got posh neighbours , too .
The problem it is tackling In the spring of this year , a police helicopter picture of the city centre during the early days of the pandemic lockdown in April starkly illustrated just how few green spaces there are at the heart of Birmingham .
It was as clear and pretty as it was shocking , too .
Aside from the beautiful oasis around Birmingham Cathedral off Colmore Row and the Georgian setting of St Paul 's Square in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few landscaped areas .
A mature Columbia Plane gateway tree on Colmore Row near to the Great Western Arcade was chopped down just before lockdown , but the current remodelling of the road there should lead to a few more trees being planted .
The redeveloped Cannon House office block at No 2 Colmore Square ( above Philpotts Cafe ) already had a 'garden meadow ' , now it has Honey B , the first official bee garden in the Colmore Business District , too .
All this is severely at odds with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Birmingham in particular are - from Moseley and Hall Green to Edgbaston , Selly Oak , Selly Park and Yardley .
Remodelled and all but when finished when it was officially opened on July 3 , 2019 , the new Centenary Square has more garden space than the previous space .
But it is still a vast expanse of hard surfacing with a shallow water pool outside of the Rep , too .
• At the back of the Library of Birmingham , the `` Civic Centre `` tower blocks are close to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit of grass and usually flowers in the roundabout near to the Rep. Refitted just over a year ago at the back of the New Street Odeon , there is a living 'green wall ' between the Rotunda and Grand Central .
• There is a small green space on Carrs Lane close to the side of Marks & Spencer .
Holliday Street has a small area of greenery , but that area next to Axis is due to be redeveloped .
• Church Street has a small permanent 'mini park ' just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vin - but most of this development on a side of the road where there used to be parking spaces is still a hard surface .
Roads in the Colmore Business district have lovely hanging baskets .
The city 's anti-terror barriers have been fitted with planters on the top , funded by Retail BID .
But now that it has lost one of its biggest funders - John Lewis - you have to wonder if it will have the same amount of money to spend on such luxuries again next year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of New Street and Corporation Street .
Others include Bennetts Hill and Temple Street - though on the Saturday afternoon of August 22 , some young girls were having a laugh there .
One of them jumped on to the top of a barrier and pulled up a plant to use it as microphone .
• Chamberlain Square has been redeveloped and is due to open shortly .
It looks lovely , but you wo n't need the fingers of both hands to count the number of trees planted so far .
Like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a grass cutting policy in any maintenance contract .
The side of Millennium Point was once a vast block-paved car parking area until the award-winning multi-storey opened nearby .
The £11.75 million , 6.5 acre Eastside City Park that opened there in December 2012 was the first such city centre development for 130 years - and it remains to be seen what HS2 does to it .
The park includes 310 trees and 21 water fountains and , having won a coveted Royal Institute of British Architects ( RIBA ) National Award , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2012 Olympic Park for the prestigious RIBA Stirling Award .
• Especially as the apparent need for the new high speed rail service has been at the expense of the city centre 's best collection of mature trees on Park Street .
These gnarled beaties used to offset the Hotel La Tour ( now Clayton Hotel ) but they have all been felled in the name of progress , just like the Edwardian Island House that was like a mini `` flat iron '' building nearby .
Look closely at the top of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next to the back of Costa Coffee and you will see some insect boxes .
Like the limited greenery on the nearby ( former ) Colmore Circus and roundabout on Priory Queensway they hardly call for an army of gardeners to maintain them .
Litter pickers are more useful just to keep them clean .
• It is not often thought of as a `` green space '' but New Street actually has more than 25 mature trees all the way down from Victoria Square to High Street , while new trees have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close to the Timber Yard complex currently under construction .

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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
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From skyscrapers to HS2, get the latest on Birmingham's biggest developments as the city skyline continues to evolve
Is it a bird box, a wooden train set or... have the German Market's wooden huts come early this year to keep the concrete anti-terror barriers company?
Well, out of those three questions the answer might only be the first one because the the new timber construction on Waterloo Street is actually a mini park.
No bird is ever likely to nest here, but there might be a feathered visitor or two looking for crumbs when it's quiet.
Funded by Colmore BID, the mixture of benches, tables and foliage has been placed on several car parking spots next to the Purecraft Bar & Kitchen close to Victoria Square.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
The "parklet" as it's called, will give people the chance to enjoy a bit of outdoor social distancing while they enjoy their lunch next to plants grown by experts at Cofton Nursery.
And to imagine for a few moments at least that they are actually in a park.
Colmore BID director Mike Best tweeted: "Hoping to roll out more across @ColmoreBID to support our hospitality sector and make better use of our streets."
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Anyone hoping to park their car in the area might have to move on to find one somewhere else as fewer spaces are now available.
The charges on this street, by the way, are £3.50 for one hour, £6 for two hours, £7.50 for three hours and £9 for four hours.
Arrive between 6pm and 7.30pm though and you will be charged £3.50... even if you come at 7.15pm and can't wait around for 15 minutes to see if a traffic warden will appear at the death.
The development follows on from Southside BID also being able to create outdoor areas for food and drink with social distancing
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Aesthetics
Seen from a distance, the aesthetics of the wooden structure are mixed - while it's nice to see some extra greenery, there are already a few trees nearby in Victoria Square.
Once you are inside the parklet on a normal, quiet day, the view of the architecture of the nearby buildings is a treat and it actually comes closer in to view.
Oh, and there's one other thing you should know.
The parklet is bang opposite the Michelin-starred Adams Restaurant, so it's got posh neighbours, too.
(Image: @NPASBirmingham / @NPASMidlands)
The problem it is tackling
In the spring of this year, a police helicopter picture of the city centre during the early days of the pandemic lockdown in April starkly illustrated just how few green spaces there are at the heart of Birmingham.
It was as clear and pretty as it was shocking, too.
Aside from the beautiful oasis around Birmingham Cathedral off Colmore Row and the Georgian setting of St Paul's Square in the Jewellery Quarter and there are precious few landscaped areas.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
A mature Columbia Plane gateway tree on Colmore Row near to the Great Western Arcade was chopped down just before lockdown, but the current remodelling of the road there should lead to a few more trees being planted.
The redeveloped Cannon House office block at No 2 Colmore Square (above Philpotts Cafe) already had a 'garden meadow', now it has Honey B, the first official bee garden in the Colmore Business District, too.
All this is severely at odds with how incredibly green many parts of south Birmingham in particular are - from Moseley and Hall Green to Edgbaston, Selly Oak, Selly Park and Yardley.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Where are Birmingham city centre's green spaces?
Remodelled and all but when finished when it was officially opened on July 3, 2019, the new Centenary Square has more garden space than the previous space.
But it is still a vast expanse of hard surfacing with a shallow water pool outside of the Rep, too.
At the back of the Library of Birmingham, the " Civic Centre " tower blocks are close to a small garden and there is a bit of grass and usually flowers in the roundabout near to the Rep.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Refitted just over a year ago at the back of the New Street Odeon, there is a living 'green wall' between the Rotunda and Grand Central.
There is a small green space on Carrs Lane close to the side of Marks & Spencer.
Holliday Street has a small area of greenery, but that area next to Axis is due to be redeveloped.
Church Street has a small permanent 'mini park' just down the hill from the Hotel du Vin - but most of this development on a side of the road where there used to be parking spaces is still a hard surface. Roads in the Colmore Business district have lovely hanging baskets.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
The city's anti-terror barriers have been fitted with planters on the top, funded by Retail BID. But now that it has lost one of its biggest funders - John Lewis - you have to wonder if it will have the same amount of money to spend on such luxuries again next year.
You will find them at the junction of New Street and Corporation Street. Others include Bennetts Hill and Temple Street - though on the Saturday afternoon of August 22, some young girls were having a laugh there.
One of them jumped on to the top of a barrier and pulled up a plant to use it as microphone.
Chamberlain Square has been redeveloped and is due to open shortly. It looks lovely, but you won't need the fingers of both hands to count the number of trees planted so far. Like Centenary Square, there won't be a grass cutting policy in any maintenance contract.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
The side of Millennium Point was once a vast block-paved car parking area until the award-winning multi-storey opened nearby.
The £11.75 million, 6.5 acre Eastside City Park that opened there in December 2012 was the first such city centre development for 130 years - and it remains to be seen what HS2 does to it. The park includes 310 trees and 21 water fountains and, having won a coveted Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) National Award, it was then shortlisted against London's 2012 Olympic Park for the prestigious RIBA Stirling Award.
Especially as the apparent need for the new high speed rail service has been at the expense of the city centre's best collection of mature trees on Park Street. These gnarled beaties used to offset the Hotel La Tour (now Clayton Hotel) but they have all been felled in the name of progress, just like the Edwardian Island House that was like a mini "flat iron" building nearby.
(Image: Graham Young / Birmingham Mail)
Look closely at the top of Livery Street where the bus stops are next to the back of Costa Coffee and you will see some insect boxes. Like the limited greenery on the nearby (former) Colmore Circus and roundabout on Priory Queensway they hardly call for an army of gardeners to maintain them. Litter pickers are more useful just to keep them clean.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--New lockdown 'unnecessary' with 87% of Birmingham Covid-free, expert says

A Birmingham-based expert has warned a second lockdown in the city would be `` unnecessary '' - and suggested as much as 91 per cent of the country is coronavirus-free .
John Clancy , a Birmingham academic who has outlined the `` ridiculousness '' of implementing a second lockdown in Brum in a new blog , says 91 % of neighbourhoods in England have n't recorded a Covid-19 case for 28 days .
Writing in a blog titled 'Local lockdown lunacy : Putting Birmingham into lockdown would be ridiculous ' , he suggested 87 % of Birmingham ’ s 132 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive case of Covid-19 in the last week .
He added : `` So-called ‘ spikes ’ are occurring here , there , and everywhere up and down the country because new testing regimes are causing them either with false positives , picking up residual infections or ( usually more likely ) suddenly increased testing in specific areas .
“ ‘ Just in case ’ lockdowns are simply not an acceptable response to dodgy data .
And lockdowns cause deaths.
” New restrictions implemented for Birmingham last week see the city having to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ limit on household gatherings and new face mask guidance on public transport .
But the rules are `` advisory '' and `` voluntary '' , according to council leader Ian Ward , who stressed no single community was responsible for the rise in cases .
The rate of Covid-19 cases in the city was 30 last week , having risen alarmingly from seven days before .
But Professor Clancy said `` when you are dealing with such low ( and unreliable ) numbers small changes might seem to become spikes . ''
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neighbourhoods ' experience of coronavirus over the last five months and said `` 716,000 Brummies live in a neighbourhood where there were no positive tests in the last week . ''
He also said that the most reliable data in a pandemic are deaths rather than tests .

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A Birmingham-based expert has warned a second lockdown in the city would be "unnecessary" - and suggested as much as 91 per cent of the country is coronavirus-free.
John Clancy, a Birmingham academic who has outlined the "ridiculousness" of implementing a second lockdown in Brum in a new blog, says 91% of neighbourhoods in England haven't recorded a Covid-19 case for 28 days.
Writing in a blog titled 'Local lockdown lunacy: Putting Birmingham into lockdown would be ridiculous', he suggested 87% of Birmingham’s 132 neighbourhoods did not record a single tested positive case of Covid-19 in the last week.
He added: "So-called ‘spikes’ are occurring here, there, and everywhere up and down the country because new testing regimes are causing them either with false positives, picking up residual infections or (usually more likely) suddenly increased testing in specific areas.
“‘Just in case’ lockdowns are simply not an acceptable response to dodgy data. And lockdowns cause deaths.”
New restrictions implemented for Birmingham last week see the city having to deal with new rules, including a limit on household gatherings and new face mask guidance on public transport.
But the rules are "advisory" and "voluntary", according to council leader Ian Ward, who stressed no single community was responsible for the rise in cases.
The rate of Covid-19 cases in the city was 30 last week, having risen alarmingly from seven days before.
But Professor Clancy said "when you are dealing with such low (and unreliable) numbers small changes might seem to become spikes."
He said he has reported detail of UK neighbourhoods' experience of coronavirus over the last five months and said "716,000 Brummies live in a neighbourhood where there were no positive tests in the last week."
He also said that the most reliable data in a pandemic are deaths rather than tests.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Aston Villa dealt major blow in race for Odsonne Edouard

Odsonne Edouard is likely to hold out ‘ for better ’ than Aston Villa , with claims Dean Smith ’ s side could launch a big-money offer .
The Celtic striker has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League , with Villa reportedly ready to test the waters with a £30m bid .
Along with Villa ; Crystal Palace , Leicester City and Arsenal are all keen on the Hoops frontman who played 86 minutes in their win vs Dundee United at the weekend .
Last season he bagged 28 goals in all competitions while , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with four from four , including an opening-day hat-trick against Hamilton .
Celtic reportedly value the Frenchman at £40m , but a report in the Scottish Sun has claimed he is likely to reject any offer from B6 .
It ’ s claimed the ex-PSG striker will hold out for a better offer than Villa , after Smith ’ s men escaped relegation on the final day last season .
Edouard is the second player this summer believed to have reluctance in joining Villa , with Milot Rashica reportedly unwilling to join a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the league .
On Villa 's part , they are keen to ensure they are involved in no such drama this time around , with owners Wes Edens and Nassef Sawiris ready to bankroll another spending spree .
Smith looks set to be in the market for a forward platyer this summer , with Mbwana Samatta and Keinan Davis struggling for goals and Wesley Moraes still recovering from injury .

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Odsonne Edouard is likely to hold out ‘for better’ than Aston Villa, with claims Dean Smith’s side could launch a big-money offer.
The Celtic striker has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League, with Villa reportedly ready to test the waters with a £30m bid.
Along with Villa; Crystal Palace, Leicester City and Arsenal are all keen on the Hoops frontman who played 86 minutes in their win vs Dundee United at the weekend.
Last season he bagged 28 goals in all competitions while, this campaign, he's off the mark with four from four, including an opening-day hat-trick against Hamilton.
Celtic reportedly value the Frenchman at £40m, but a report in the Scottish Sun has claimed he is likely to reject any offer from B6.
It’s claimed the ex-PSG striker will hold out for a better offer than Villa, after Smith’s men escaped relegation on the final day last season.
Edouard is the second player this summer believed to have reluctance in joining Villa, with Milot Rashica reportedly unwilling to join a team that were towards the bottom of the league.
On Villa's part, they are keen to ensure they are involved in no such drama this time around, with owners Wes Edens and Nassef Sawiris ready to bankroll another spending spree.
Smith looks set to be in the market for a forward platyer this summer, with Mbwana Samatta and Keinan Davis struggling for goals and Wesley Moraes still recovering from injury.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Arsenal's stance on 'incredible' Maitland-Niles as Wolves hover

Wolves and Newcastle have both been credited with an interest in Arsenal ’ s versatile youngster Ainsley Maitland-Niles .
Reports over the last week have suggested the England Under 21 could be surplus to requirements at the Emirates - though his potential could attract a fee of around £20million .
However , Mikel Arteta ’ s most recent utterance on the 22-year-old ’ s future suggests he still sees the defender , who can also play in midfield , as part of his squad next season .
“ Yes , maybe he didn ’ t play as much as I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ played him in many different positions in some very important games as well , '' the Spaniard said last month .
“ I didn ’ t discuss the reports with him , first of all , because I don ’ t read them .
“ I spoke with the players about how they are feeling and how can we help them .
“ He ’ s a player that can play in many different positions , we have discussed the things that in my opinion that he can improve or adopt to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he has every quality that you need as a footballer to play at the highest level .
He needs to do it a little bit more consistently but he ’ s one that can adapt to any position.
” However , several outlets , including the BBC , are reporting Maitland-Niles will leave Arsenal this summer even though he has three years left on his contact .

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Wolves and Newcastle have both been credited with an interest in Arsenal’s versatile youngster Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
Reports over the last week have suggested the England Under 21 could be surplus to requirements at the Emirates - though his potential could attract a fee of around £20million.
However, Mikel Arteta’s most recent utterance on the 22-year-old’s future suggests he still sees the defender, who can also play in midfield, as part of his squad next season.
“Yes, maybe he didn’t play as much as I wanted him to play. But I played him in many different positions in some very important games as well," the Spaniard said last month.
“I didn’t discuss the reports with him, first of all, because I don’t read them.
“I spoke with the players about how they are feeling and how can we help them.
“He’s a player that can play in many different positions, we have discussed the things that in my opinion that he can improve or adopt to his game.
“He has incredible quality, he has every quality that you need as a footballer to play at the highest level. He needs to do it a little bit more consistently but he’s one that can adapt to any position.”
However, several outlets, including the BBC, are reporting Maitland-Niles will leave Arsenal this summer even though he has three years left on his contact.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Dr Hilary says teachers are not social distancing outside schools

Teachers are not socially distancing as they could , according to a top TV doctor who made a plea to anybody working in schools live on Lorraine today .
Dr Hilary Jones , a medical professional and healthcare expert , issued a plea to teachers and educators on Lorraine during a live episode on Monday , August 24 .
Asked by Christine Lampard over the fears parents currently have over sending kids back into the classroom , Dr Hilary told mums and dads the risk was low .
He said the need for a face mask was non-existent for kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the risk of transmitting Covid-19 was slim to zero .
But he had a warning for teachers who were failing to stick to social distancing guidance outside of the classroom , in an interview with stand-in host Christine today .
Dr Hilary warned : `` Hygiene measures , hand washing , all that is being done . ''
`` You have one way systems in corridors , you have the bubble children are in being kept sacrosanct so they are not mixing with the entire school . ''
He continued : `` All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside school , some of the teachers are perhaps not socially distancing as they possibly could .
`` That 's the message from somebody at the PHE . ''
In a final word on the matter , Dr Hilary said : `` So we need to educate the educators . ''
Lorraine continues to air each weekday from 9am on ITV with Christine and Andi Peters stepping in to host as Lorraine Kelly enjoys a summer break .

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Teachers are not socially distancing as they could, according to a top TV doctor who made a plea to anybody working in schools live on Lorraine today.
Dr Hilary Jones, a medical professional and healthcare expert, issued a plea to teachers and educators on Lorraine during a live episode on Monday, August 24.
Asked by Christine Lampard over the fears parents currently have over sending kids back into the classroom, Dr Hilary told mums and dads the risk was low.
He said the need for a face mask was non-existent for kids aged below 12, telling parents that the risk of transmitting Covid-19 was slim to zero.
But he had a warning for teachers who were failing to stick to social distancing guidance outside of the classroom, in an interview with stand-in host Christine today.
Dr Hilary warned: "Hygiene measures, hand washing, all that is being done."
"You have one way systems in corridors, you have the bubble children are in being kept sacrosanct so they are not mixing with the entire school."
He continued: "All that is being done inside school but outside school, some of the teachers are perhaps not socially distancing as they possibly could.
"That's the message from somebody at the PHE."
In a final word on the matter, Dr Hilary said: "So we need to educate the educators."
Lorraine continues to air each weekday from 9am on ITV with Christine and Andi Peters stepping in to host as Lorraine Kelly enjoys a summer break.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Four major changes to trains across Birmingham and the West Midlands

Thousands of extra seats are being introduced across key West Midlands railway lines as passenger numbers across the network are expected to soar .
The new timetable , which comes into effect from September 6 , will see available space increased as youngsters return to schools and many returning back to offices .
The capacity in many places on the West Midlands Railway is expected to near pre-Covid levels .
All rail operators significantly reduced services in March in response to the pandemic , with passenger numbers dropping by 95 per cent at the height of the lockdown .
Services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and with increased numbers travelling .
The enhanced timetable is the most significant step up in rail capacity since lockdown and will see the introduction of longer trains running modular routes to boost reliability .
Jonny Wiseman , customer experience director for West Midlands Railway , said : `` This timetable is the most significant step up in our capacity since lockdown .
We ’ re adding thousands of extra seats to give our customers the space to travel with confidence .
`` We ’ ve taken all the aspects which made our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them as increasing numbers of customers continue returning to the railway .
This simpler timetable will be more reliable for passengers with longer trains to help social distancing .
`` We know that coronavirus will continue to impact our lives and workplaces for some time to come but by creating a resilient , flexible timetable we can help our customers adjust to their new normal . ''
Passengers are also being reminded that wearing a face covering is compulsory on trains and in stations unless exempt for medical reasons .
Non-compliance is punishable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police .
Among the key changes are : • Train frequency on Birmingham 's Cross-City Line increases from three to four trains an hour on the majority of the route and will be the maximum six carriages in length • Services on the Birmingham-Hereford and Birmingham-Shrewsbury lines increase to two trains per hour in the peak • Snow Hill Line services increase to six trains per hour while services to Birmingham International increase to two trains per hour • Services between Walsall and Rugeley step up to two trains per hour both peak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reliability , Chase Line trains will remain self-contained in the West Midlands rather than continue through to London Euston

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Thousands of extra seats are being introduced across key West Midlands railway lines as passenger numbers across the network are expected to soar.
The new timetable, which comes into effect from September 6, will see available space increased as youngsters return to schools and many returning back to offices.
The capacity in many places on the West Midlands Railway is expected to near pre-Covid levels.
All rail operators significantly reduced services in March in response to the pandemic, with passenger numbers dropping by 95 per cent at the height of the lockdown.
Services have been stepped up twice since May and with increased numbers travelling.
The enhanced timetable is the most significant step up in rail capacity since lockdown and will see the introduction of longer trains running modular routes to boost reliability.
Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director for West Midlands Railway, said: "This timetable is the most significant step up in our capacity since lockdown. We’re adding thousands of extra seats to give our customers the space to travel with confidence.
"We’ve taken all the aspects which made our lockdown timetable work so well and expanded them as increasing numbers of customers continue returning to the railway. This simpler timetable will be more reliable for passengers with longer trains to help social distancing.
"We know that coronavirus will continue to impact our lives and workplaces for some time to come but by creating a resilient, flexible timetable we can help our customers adjust to their new normal."
Passengers are also being reminded that wearing a face covering is compulsory on trains and in stations unless exempt for medical reasons. Non-compliance is punishable by a fine from the British Transport Police.
Among the key changes are:
Train frequency on Birmingham's Cross-City Line increases from three to four trains an hour on the majority of the route and will be the maximum six carriages in length
Services on the Birmingham-Hereford and Birmingham-Shrewsbury lines increase to two trains per hour in the peak
Snow Hill Line services increase to six trains per hour while services to Birmingham International increase to two trains per hour


birminghammail--2020-08-24--'At least one' more person still loose after fatal stabbing

Police are actively seeking 'at least one other person ' after five suspects were arrested in connection with a fatal stabbing .
Witnesses are still being urged to come forward after a man was found slumped beside busy Bristol Road , Bournbrook just before 5pm on Saturday afternoon .
He was taken to hospital with a stab wound to the chest , but was pronounced dead at around 6.15pm as 12 hours of sickening violence in the city came to a tragic end .
A woman , 28 , and a 15-year-old girl were both arrested at the scene and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They have now been released on bail with conditions .
Three men - aged 22 , 30 and 40 - were arrested from separate addresses in the Nottingham area in the early hours of Sunday morning ( August 23 ) .
They were transported to the West Midlands for questioning and remain in custody .
At least one more person connected with the stabbing is still on the run from police , officers believe .
Meanwhile , efforts to identify the victim are still ongoing , though a post mortem is due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not yet been released , but West Midlands Police expects to be in a better position to disclose details later on this afternoon .
Det Insp Stu Mobberley , who is leading the investigation , yesterday said : “ We ’ ve made rapid progress overnight having worked with colleagues at Nottinghamshire Police to arrested three men we believe were involved in the stabbing .
“ Our enquiries continue and we are actively seeking at least one other person .
“ I still really need to hear from anyone who was in Mill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4-5pm yesterday and who saw what happened or any disorder to get in touch .
“ They may have seen something important so please call.
” Anyone with information should call police on 101 or message officers via Live Chat on the West Midlands Police website .
Quote log 3112 from 22 August .

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Police are actively seeking 'at least one other person' after five suspects were arrested in connection with a fatal stabbing.
Witnesses are still being urged to come forward after a man was found slumped beside busy Bristol Road, Bournbrook just before 5pm on Saturday afternoon.
He was taken to hospital with a stab wound to the chest, but was pronounced dead at around 6.15pm as 12 hours of sickening violence in the city came to a tragic end.
A woman, 28, and a 15-year-old girl were both arrested at the scene and held in custody over the weekend.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
They have now been released on bail with conditions.
Three men - aged 22, 30 and 40 - were arrested from separate addresses in the Nottingham area in the early hours of Sunday morning (August 23).
They were transported to the West Midlands for questioning and remain in custody. At least one more person connected with the stabbing is still on the run from police, officers believe.
Meanwhile, efforts to identify the victim are still ongoing, though a post mortem is due to take place today.
His age has not yet been released, but West Midlands Police expects to be in a better position to disclose details later on this afternoon.
Det Insp Stu Mobberley, who is leading the investigation, yesterday said: “We’ve made rapid progress overnight having worked with colleagues at Nottinghamshire Police to arrested three men we believe were involved in the stabbing.
“Our enquiries continue and we are actively seeking at least one other person.
“I still really need to hear from anyone who was in Mill Pool Way, Bournbrook, at around 4-5pm yesterday and who saw what happened or any disorder to get in touch.
“They may have seen something important so please call.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101 or message officers via Live Chat on the West Midlands Police website. Quote log 3112 from 22 August.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Speeding VW driver ploughs into pregnant mum and 12-month-old daughter

This is the shocking moment a speeding driver seriously injuries a pregnant mum and her 12-month-old daughter without stopping .
Bellal Ahmad , 29 , of Emerson Street , Stoke-on-Trent , had been racing another car at 76mph in a 30mph zone before causing the collision .
The 17-year-old mum , who was pregnant with her second child , was carrying her daughter across Waterloo Road , Cobridge , Stoke-on-Trent , after supermarket shopping .
Horrifying footage released by Staffordshire Police shows the Jetta striking the pair as it spins out of control on the narrow residential street .
Ahmad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Volkswagen Jetta which struck the pair a few steps off the curb at 8:25pm on August 15 , 2017 .
The mum suffered a broken pelvis , ankle and eye socket and deep cut to her shin , while her daughter ’ s liver was torn and her head and chest bruised .
Both were taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital and survived with the mum later giving birth to a healthy baby .
The Audi and the Volkswagen fled the scene , the Jetta within four seconds of the crash .
Detectives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the junction of Waterloo Road and Greyhound Way at 76mph in a 30mph zone .
As they passed a supermarket the Jetta was travelling at 68mph and the Audi at 53mph .
The Jetta slowed to 54mph as it met the junction of Hawthorne Street where it braked heavily before hitting the mum and daughter .
Ahmad was arrested two days later after the Audi was found .
He was jailed for causing serious injury by dangerous driving at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on August 18 after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ two months and disqualified from driving for two years with an extended disqualification of one year and one month .
He is required to take an extended driving test when eligible .
Aqeeb Rasab , 26 , of Wulstan Road , Cobridge , was jailed for 12 months in June 2020 after pleading guilty to perverting the course of public justice at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court .
Several weeks after the collision Rasab called the police and claimed he was driving the Audi A7 which was actually driven by Bellal Ahmad .
An investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cover up from Ahmad .
Detective Constable Marc Heath , of CID North , said : “ Ahmad was racing the other person in a Volkswagen Jetta and the speeds were in excess of 70mph in a 30mph area .
“ He went through a red light and weaved across the road .
“ Thankfully , the 17-year-old woman and her daughter did not lose their life .
She went to give birth to a healthy baby .
“ I would like to thank the members of the public who assisted the victims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward to provide witness statements , those that provided CCTV footage and the CCTV operatives at Stoke-on-Trent City Council for their superb work during this case .
”

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This is the shocking moment a speeding driver seriously injuries a pregnant mum and her 12-month-old daughter without stopping.
Bellal Ahmad, 29, of Emerson Street, Stoke-on-Trent, had been racing another car at 76mph in a 30mph zone before causing the collision.
The 17-year-old mum, who was pregnant with her second child, was carrying her daughter across Waterloo Road, Cobridge, Stoke-on-Trent, after supermarket shopping.
Horrifying footage released by Staffordshire Police shows the Jetta striking the pair as it spins out of control on the narrow residential street.
Ahmad was driving an Audi A7 chasing a Volkswagen Jetta which struck the pair a few steps off the curb at 8:25pm on August 15, 2017.
The mum suffered a broken pelvis, ankle and eye socket and deep cut to her shin, while her daughter’s liver was torn and her head and chest bruised.
(Image: SWNS.com)
Both were taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital and survived with the mum later giving birth to a healthy baby.
The Audi and the Volkswagen fled the scene, the Jetta within four seconds of the crash.
Detectives established both cars jumped red lights at the junction of Waterloo Road and Greyhound Way at 76mph in a 30mph zone.
As they passed a supermarket the Jetta was travelling at 68mph and the Audi at 53mph.
The Jetta slowed to 54mph as it met the junction of Hawthorne Street where it braked heavily before hitting the mum and daughter.
Ahmad was arrested two days later after the Audi was found.
He was jailed for causing serious injury by dangerous driving at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on August 18 after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing.
He was jailed for two years and two months and disqualified from driving for two years with an extended disqualification of one year and one month.
(Image: SWNS.com)
He is required to take an extended driving test when eligible.
Aqeeb Rasab, 26, of Wulstan Road, Cobridge, was jailed for 12 months in June 2020 after pleading guilty to perverting the course of public justice at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
Several weeks after the collision Rasab called the police and claimed he was driving the Audi A7 which was actually driven by Bellal Ahmad.
An investigation showed that he wanted payment for the cover up from Ahmad.
(Image: SWNS)
Detective Constable Marc Heath, of CID North, said: “Ahmad was racing the other person in a Volkswagen Jetta and the speeds were in excess of 70mph in a 30mph area.
“He went through a red light and weaved across the road.
“Thankfully, the 17-year-old woman and her daughter did not lose their life. She went to give birth to a healthy baby.
“I would like to thank the members of the public who assisted the victims at the scene, those that came forward to provide witness statements, those that provided CCTV footage and the CCTV operatives at Stoke-on-Trent City Council for their superb work during this case.”


birminghammail--2020-08-24--HMRC gives bosses 3 choices as it probes thousands for breaking furlough rules

The furlough scheme is undergoing big changes THIS WEEK as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme undergoes a revamp .
New rules will come into effect from the beginning of September , with the scheme set to be wound down the following month .
And the news that there are changes incoming comes as HMRC confirmed thousands of reports of furlough fraud were being investigated .
As many as two-thirds of workers say they stayed working for firms during the furlough scheme - despite rules prohibiting it .
Only 37 per cent of furloughed workers in the UK reported doing no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that time .
Next month , the Government will only contribute 70 % of wages , with this reducing to 60 % in October , before the furlough scheme is completely wound down .
When the scheme closes on October 31 , firms must decide to either bring employees back to work on their normal hours , reduce employees ’ hours or terminate their employment ( normal redundancy rules apply to furloughed employees ) .
HMRC says : `` The government will pay 70 % of wages up to a cap of £2,187.50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ furlough .
`` Employers will pay ER NICs and pension contributions and top up employees ’ wages to ensure they receive 80 % of their wages up to a cap of £2,500 , for time they are furloughed . ''
In June , HMRC receive 4,400 reports of firms abusing the rules , with 6,000 in July .
As of last week , HMRC had been sent 7,791 reports of potential fraud relating to the furlough scheme , according to reports .

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The furlough scheme is undergoing big changes THIS WEEK as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme undergoes a revamp.
New rules will come into effect from the beginning of September, with the scheme set to be wound down the following month.
And the news that there are changes incoming comes as HMRC confirmed thousands of reports of furlough fraud were being investigated.
As many as two-thirds of workers say they stayed working for firms during the furlough scheme - despite rules prohibiting it.
Only 37 per cent of furloughed workers in the UK reported doing no work at all for their employers during that time.
Next month, the Government will only contribute 70% of wages, with this reducing to 60% in October, before the furlough scheme is completely wound down.
When the scheme closes on October 31, firms must decide to either bring employees back to work on their normal hours, reduce employees’ hours or terminate their employment ( normal redundancy rules apply to furloughed employees ).
HMRC says: "The government will pay 70% of wages up to a cap of £2,187.50 for the hours the employee is on furlough.
"Employers will pay ER NICs and pension contributions and top up employees’ wages to ensure they receive 80% of their wages up to a cap of £2,500, for time they are furloughed."
In June, HMRC receive 4,400 reports of firms abusing the rules, with 6,000 in July.
As of last week, HMRC had been sent 7,791 reports of potential fraud relating to the furlough scheme, according to reports.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--The hidden Villa transfer message Dean Smith keeps referencing

If there 's one Aston Villa transfer Dean Smith will look to learn from it 's a player he keeps making reference to : Douglas Luiz .
The head coach gave the green light to 12 new additions last summer under the guidance of then-sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch ( Suso ) .
The Spaniard has long since departed and the importance of a sporting director - a transfer instigator in short - was hammered home by Smith in his latest TV interview with him admitting he abruptly put his family holidays on hold by a week to make sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he wanted in terms of new recruits .
`` Wheels are in motion , that was the reason I stopped back , to sit down with Johan and strategically plan what we are going to do , '' he said .
`` Nobody is satisfied with finishing 17th in the league – owners , supporters , players and coaching staff .
So we need to improve the squad .
We improved after the lockdown and Project Restart and we need to improve again because we don ’ t want a season of struggles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on 16 new additions last year ( including loans ) and banked just £3.5 million following the sales of Jonathan Kodjia and Aaron Tshibola .
It was a complete - and much-needed - overhaul as Villa let ageing old warriors depart while the likes of Tammy Abraham and Axel Tuanzebe returned back to their parent clubs .
The shortened summer 20/21 transfer window is rapidly ticking by and , at the time of writing , slams shut in just six weeks ' time by which time Villa would have played three Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Liverpool - and possibly three Carabao Cup games should they progress .
That 's six games in before the window officially closes .
Now , the thirst for transfers , done deals and Villa 's admin playfully teasing a new signing is , to some , reaching desperation .
Deals in the Premier League are beginning to roll .
Arsenal have snapped-up Willian and William Saliba , Chelsea are going on a mad one , Brighton have signed Adam Lallana , Tottenham have added Joe Hart and Pierre-Emile Hojbjeg and so on .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ six Premier League clubs not to do any first-team business , with major strides being made in the academy at present following the addition of Ben Chrisene .
Other clubs not to make a signing are Burnley , Leicester , Manchester United , West Ham and Wolves .
Villa , of course , have a list as long as Schindler 's in terms of players linked with a summer switch , ranging from known targets Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma to Celtic goal-getter Odsonne Edouard , Werder Bremen winger Milot Rashica and left-field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McKennie , Eberechi Eze , Daniel Sturridge , Rhian Brewster and so on .
In short , Villa 's name is sticking to almost everyone .
However , the likes of Lange , Smith and CEO Christian Purslow are remaining cool at present with the new season set to kick-off for Villa in the Carabao Cup in three weeks .
Transfer targets were on holiday two weeks ago , returned back to their places of work last week with serious negotiations only set to start this week .
One thing Smith knows , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season was a statement he kept on making reference to throughout Villa 's mini revival as they survived on the final day - and that 's Douglas Luiz looking 10x the player to the one he was prior to the Project Restart .
Why ?
Because the Brazilian spent the lockdown period finally getting up to speed fitness wise .
The 22-year-old will now be used as an example by Smith in his discussions with Lange and Purslow , basically telling them to get deals done quick so new recruits are n't playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said it himself in Monday 's sit-down chat with broadcaster Michelle Owen , telling viewers on Villa TV : `` Three things have to align : a club needs to be a seller , a club needs to be a buyer and the agents have to agree as well !
It always takes time .
Douglas Luiz came into the building two days before we played Tottenham ( Smith 's used this line a lot ) .
It 's a tough league anyway , it 's certainly tough to catch up with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Douglas Luiz , a different Ezri Konsa after Project Restart .
This year we 're not making many changes so that integration should be a lot quicker . ''
On last season 's business , Smith said it will run smoother this time around and added : `` It 'll be easier this season .
Last season was tough .
We got promoted through the play-offs with five or six players who were on loan so they were n't our players anyway .
Six or seven players left at the end of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always going to be a big turnaround and integrating 12 players is very tough to do .
As we all know , the market we 're in is difficult anyway . ''
As mentioned , though , if there 's anything to delve into and take from Smith 's latest interview it 's the transfer message behind his Douglas Luiz example .
He does n't want to have new additions playing catch-up again that 's for sure as it almost , almost cost Villa their Premier League status .
As for the Brazilian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-isolating for 14 days following his holiday back home in Brazil and , by the time the Wales camp is finished for Smith and Villa , the gaffer will want new players back in at Bodymoor by September to bed in for the big kick-off .

If there's one Aston Villa transfer Dean Smith will look to learn from it's a player he keeps making reference to: Douglas Luiz.
The head coach gave the green light to 12 new additions last summer under the guidance of then-sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch (Suso).
The Spaniard has long since departed and the importance of a sporting director - a transfer instigator in short - was hammered home by Smith in his latest TV interview with him admitting he abruptly put his family holidays on hold by a week to make sure he told newly-appointed Johan Lange exactly what he wanted in terms of new recruits.
"Wheels are in motion, that was the reason I stopped back, to sit down with Johan and strategically plan what we are going to do," he said. "Nobody is satisfied with finishing 17th in the league – owners, supporters, players and coaching staff. So we need to improve the squad. We improved after the lockdown and Project Restart and we need to improve again because we don’t want a season of struggles."
(Image: Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
Villa spent around £140 million on 16 new additions last year (including loans) and banked just £3.5 million following the sales of Jonathan Kodjia and Aaron Tshibola. It was a complete - and much-needed - overhaul as Villa let ageing old warriors depart while the likes of Tammy Abraham and Axel Tuanzebe returned back to their parent clubs.
The shortened summer 20/21 transfer window is rapidly ticking by and, at the time of writing, slams shut in just six weeks' time by which time Villa would have played three Premier League fixtures - Sheffield United, Fulham, Liverpool - and possibly three Carabao Cup games should they progress. That's six games in before the window officially closes.
Now, the thirst for transfers, done deals and Villa's admin playfully teasing a new signing is, to some, reaching desperation. Deals in the Premier League are beginning to roll. Arsenal have snapped-up Willian and William Saliba, Chelsea are going on a mad one, Brighton have signed Adam Lallana, Tottenham have added Joe Hart and Pierre-Emile Hojbjeg and so on. In fact, Villa are one of six Premier League clubs not to do any first-team business, with major strides being made in the academy at present following the addition of Ben Chrisene. Other clubs not to make a signing are Burnley, Leicester, Manchester United, West Ham and Wolves.
Villa, of course, have a list as long as Santa's in terms of players linked with a summer switch, ranging from known targets Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma to Celtic goal-getter Odsonne Edouard, Werder Bremen winger Milot Rashica and left-field shouts such as Kieran Trippier, Weston McKennie, Eberechi Eze, Daniel Sturridge, Rhian Brewster and so on. In short, Villa's name is sticking to almost everyone.
However, the likes of Lange, Smith and CEO Christian Purslow are remaining cool at present with the new season set to kick-off for Villa in the Carabao Cup in three weeks. Transfer targets were on holiday two weeks ago, returned back to their places of work last week with serious negotiations only set to start this week.
One thing Smith knows, though, and was irked by last season was a statement he kept on making reference to throughout Villa's mini revival as they survived on the final day - and that's Douglas Luiz looking 10x the player to the one he was prior to the Project Restart. Why? Because the Brazilian spent the lockdown period finally getting up to speed fitness wise. The 22-year-old will now be used as an example by Smith in his discussions with Lange and Purslow, basically telling them to get deals done quick so new recruits aren't playing catch-up like Douglas was last year.
He said it himself in Monday's sit-down chat with broadcaster Michelle Owen, telling viewers on Villa TV: "Three things have to align: a club needs to be a seller, a club needs to be a buyer and the agents have to agree as well! It always takes time. Douglas Luiz came into the building two days before we played Tottenham (Smith's used this line a lot). It's a tough league anyway, it's certainly tough to catch up with your fitness. We saw a different Douglas Luiz, a different Ezri Konsa after Project Restart. This year we're not making many changes so that integration should be a lot quicker."
On last season's business, Smith said it will run smoother this time around and added: "It'll be easier this season. Last season was tough. We got promoted through the play-offs with five or six players who were on loan so they weren't our players anyway. Six or seven players left at the end of that season as well.
"There was always going to be a big turnaround and integrating 12 players is very tough to do. As we all know, the market we're in is difficult anyway."
As mentioned, though, if there's anything to delve into and take from Smith's latest interview it's the transfer message behind his Douglas Luiz example. He doesn't want to have new additions playing catch-up again that's for sure as it almost, almost cost Villa their Premier League status. As for the Brazilian, he's back next week after self-isolating for 14 days following his holiday back home in Brazil and, by the time the Wales camp is finished for Smith and Villa, the gaffer will want new players back in at Bodymoor by September to bed in for the big kick-off.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Aston Villa transfers live - Rashica twist and Trippier claim

Hello and welcome to Monday 's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you informed on all the key developments across today as Villa 's transfer window gathers pace and the new season draws closer .
We will be adding all the latest Villa news , views and rumours to our live blog throughout the day , with new signings and transfers continually linked to the club .
Werder Bremen star Milot Rashica - valued at £20 million-plus - continues to be the name associated with Aston Villa with a report on the Kosovan reluctant to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seemingly meeting the German club 's price demand .
Elsewhere , Brentford duo Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma remain top targets while there 's fresh links regarding Bournemouth duo Harry Wilson and Philip Billing while shock rumours surrounding young Liverpool duo Rhian Brewster and Marko Grujic .
Villa , who are currently enjoying a pre-season training camp in south Wales , are also linked with a move for American midfielder Weston McKennie , 21 , from Schalke .
So stay with us for today 's blog , below , and be sure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transfer news and opinion .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Shane Ireland, Ashley Preece)

Hello and welcome to LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive on Wednesday, September 9.
We will be keeping you informed on all the key developments across today as Villa's transfer window gathers pace and the new season draws closer.
We will be adding all the latest Villa news, views and rumours to our live blog throughout the day, with new signings and transfers continually linked to the club.
Matty Cash arrived from Nottingham Forest to become the club's first senior signing of the window and Brentford striker Ollie Watkins completed his £28m switch to Villa Park on Wednesday.
Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has also been touted for a move with Dean Smith keen to add cover given Tom Heaton's long lay-off.
So stay with us for today's transfer blog and be sure to check back for all the latest Villa transfer news and opinion.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Done deal: Aston Villa youngster Jack Clarke departs out on loan

The 21-year-old was one of the oldest academy players last year and , after graduating from under-18s to under-23s three years ago , has amassed 61 Premier League 2 fixtures , scoring four and assisting nine .
Clarke captained Mark Delaney 's side on many occasion , too , and first broke into Villa 's first-team squad during the pre-season training camp in Portugal under Steve Bruce two summers ago .
Last year , too , he was amongst Jack Grealish & Co out in Minnesota ( pictured below with John Terry ) ahead of the new Premier League season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t know much about Clarke , who 's yet to make a first-team appearance , here ’ s the lowdown : Where does he play ?
Clarke started life in Villa ’ s under-9s and has risen through the ranks with the likes of Callum O ’ Hare , Andre Green and his ‘ best friend at the club ’ Jake Doyle-Hayes , with all three since departing in this very transfer window .
Over the last three seasons , Clarke has operated in a variety of midfield positions for Villa ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dictating play from deep .
The central midfielder is extremely comfortable on the ball and likes to dictate play with short , sharp passes with his wicked left foot .
Clarke can also play a little bit further forward as an advanced midfielder while development coach Delaney has used him out wide in the past .
How did Villa find him ?
Like Jack Grealish , O ’ Hare , Andre Green and Easah Suliman , ‘ Clarkey ’ was discovered by experienced scout Jim Thomas .
`` He was a left footer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thomas told BirminghamLive .
“ The team I saw him at , Arden Forest , he was playing at left-back but I think he plays midfield now , left-sided .
A tiny player at the time . ''
Clarke has enjoyed some memorable moments during his decade at Bodymoor Heath but none rank higher than his role in Villa under-23s ’ Premier League Cup win in 2018 .
The youngsters defeated Swansea City on penalties in the final at the Liberty Stadium with Clarke more than playing his part .
The midfielder , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skipper Grealish , will link up on with the Glovers ahead of the start of their opening National League fixture on Saturday , October 3 .

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Aston Villa under-23 midfielder Jack Clarke has joined National League side Yeovil Town on a season's loan.
The 21-year-old was one of the oldest academy players last year and, after graduating from under-18s to under-23s three years ago, has amassed 61 Premier League 2 fixtures, scoring four and assisting nine.
Clarke captained Mark Delaney's side on many occasion, too, and first broke into Villa's first-team squad during the pre-season training camp in Portugal under Steve Bruce two summers ago.
Last year, too, he was amongst Jack Grealish & Co out in Minnesota (pictured below with John Terry) ahead of the new Premier League season.
For those of you that don’t know much about Clarke, who's yet to make a first-team appearance, here’s the lowdown:
Where does he play?
Clarke started life in Villa’s under-9s and has risen through the ranks with the likes of Callum O’Hare, Andre Green and his ‘best friend at the club’ Jake Doyle-Hayes, with all three since departing in this very transfer window.
Over the last three seasons, Clarke has operated in a variety of midfield positions for Villa’s under-23s but his strengths lie in dictating play from deep.
The central midfielder is extremely comfortable on the ball and likes to dictate play with short, sharp passes with his wicked left foot.
Clarke can also play a little bit further forward as an advanced midfielder while development coach Delaney has used him out wide in the past.
How did Villa find him?
Like Jack Grealish, O’Hare, Andre Green and Easah Suliman, ‘Clarkey’ was discovered by experienced scout Jim Thomas.
"He was a left footer, a very tricky player,” Thomas told BirminghamLive. “The team I saw him at, Arden Forest, he was playing at left-back but I think he plays midfield now, left-sided. A tiny player at the time."
Villa highlight?
Clarke has enjoyed some memorable moments during his decade at Bodymoor Heath but none rank higher than his role in Villa under-23s’ Premier League Cup win in 2018.
The youngsters defeated Swansea City on penalties in the final at the Liberty Stadium with Clarke more than playing his part.
What now?
The midfielder, who's under the same agency as skipper Grealish, will link up on with the Glovers ahead of the start of their opening National League fixture on Saturday, October 3.


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Aston Villa 'quoted fee' to complete Eberechi Eze transfer

Queens Park Rangers are refusing to budge on their valuation of Eberechi Eze amid reported interest from Aston Villa and a host of other Premier League clubs .
The winger is in demand after making a name for himself in the Championship with 14 goals and eights assists in 46 appearances last season .
Villa are believed to hold an interest as they look to add new attacking options to Dean Smith 's squad for the new top-flight season .
Newly-promoted trio Leeds United , West Brom and Fulham are also said to be keen , as well as Crystal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sign up ?
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Google Play Store and App Store QPR have already turned down a £12m bid from Palace for the 22-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Championship side are 'determined ' to hold out for at least £16m with interest continuing to build .
Boss Mark Warburton admitted recently that he gave the winger a break from the limelight when asked why he ’ d been omitted from the Rs ’ s squad who faced Wimbledon in a pre-season friendly .
“ There is a lot going on with Ebere , ” Warburton said .
“ He has been lauded by many football people and did exceptionally well for us last season .
“ But , being brutally honest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ebs knows that ’ s how football works .
And that asset has a value .
If that value is met then that asset moves on .
“ But he is a QPR player , he is a very talented boy and a pleasure to have around the group .
Today the right thing to do for Ebs , with lots going on , was to look after him .
He is back in training on Monday morning .
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Eberechi Eze is closing in a move to the Premier League amid reported interest from Aston Villa.
The winger has been in demand after making a name for himself in the Championship with 14 goals and eights assists in 46 appearances last season.
Villa are believed to hold an interest as they look to add new attacking options to Dean Smith's squad for the new top-flight season.
Newly-promoted trio Leeds United, West Brom and Fulham are also said to be keen, as well as Crystal Palace and Fulham.
QPR turned down a £12m bid from Palace for the 22-year-old earlier in the month but the Eagles now appear to have got their man.
The Telegraph report Roy Hodgson's side have agreed a fee of £16m - potentially rising to £19.5m with add-ons - to take Eze to Selhurst Park.
Personal terms will be thrashed out and the move is expected to be formally completed within the next 48 hours.
Boss Mark Warburton admitted recently that he gave the winger a break from the limelight when asked why he’d been omitted from the Rs’s squad who faced Wimbledon in a pre-season friendly.
“There is a lot going on with Ebere,” Warburton said. “He has been lauded by many football people and did exceptionally well for us last season.
“But, being brutally honest, he’s an asset. Ebs knows that’s how football works. And that asset has a value. If that value is met then that asset moves on.
“But he is a QPR player, he is a very talented boy and a pleasure to have around the group. Today the right thing to do for Ebs, with lots going on, was to look after him. He is back in training on Monday morning.”


birminghammail--2020-08-24--Confirmed: Aston Villa to play Bristol City in first friendly

Aston Villa will be back in match action for the first time in a little over four weeks when they face off against Championship side Bristol City .
The behind-closed-doors friendly will see Dean Smith pit his wits against friend and his former Walsall player Dean Holden who , just a fortnight ago , replaced Lee Johnson at Ashton Gate .
Holden , 40 , was coaxed into coaching by Villa 's manager during their time together at the Banks 's Stadium between 2012 and 2014 , with the then right-back pegging up his boots before joining Oldham .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pitch , too .
As for Villa , the Bristol City test will be the club 's first pre-season friendly ahead of the 2020/21 campaign .
The squad have spent the past week down at their south-Wales training camp , which has included the usual faces , a new face in Craig Shakespeare and youngsters such as Jaden Philogene-Bidace , Carney Chukwuemeka , Mungo Bridge , the Ramsey brothers - Jacob and Aaron - and Kaine Kesler Hayden .
The game against the Championship promotion hopefuls will be played behind-closed-doors with strict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice .
Our colleagues at Bristol Live know the day and kick-off time but will not be publishing details to help maintain safety protocols .
Regarding Villa , Smith spoke to Villa TV today about the arrival of his new assistant , Shakespeare , and said : `` Craig is somebody I wanted to bring in previously , but I was a little bit late and he ’ d already gone to Watford about a day before I tried getting him in here .
`` I just wanted to add to the staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ JT were doing very well , but we just needed one more pair of extra hands .
Preferably someone who has coached in the Premier League , which he has – and I also wanted to add to our coach ’ s tally of Premier League titles .
We ’ ve now got seven !
JT has six and he has one .
`` He ’ s a really good coach , a really good guy and he ’ ll add to our coaching ranks . ''
Ahead of this week 's friendly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he continues to self-isolate after spending time on holiday back home in Brazil .
The midfielder will be available from next week .
Tom Heaton is still injured , too , as he 's set a return date for October 17 .
Villa 's squad for Bristol City is as follows ,

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Aston Villa will be back in match action for the first time in a little over four weeks when they face off against Championship side Bristol City.
The behind-closed-doors friendly will see Dean Smith pit his wits against friend and his former Walsall player Dean Holden who, just a fortnight ago, replaced Lee Johnson at Ashton Gate.
Holden, 40, was coaxed into coaching by Villa's manager during their time together at the Banks's Stadium between 2012 and 2014, with the then right-back pegging up his boots before joining Oldham. The pair have remained close pals away from the pitch, too.
As for Villa, the Bristol City test will be the club's first pre-season friendly ahead of the 2020/21 campaign. The squad have spent the past week down at their south-Wales training camp, which has included the usual faces, a new face in Craig Shakespeare and youngsters such as Jaden Philogene-Bidace, Carney Chukwuemeka, Mungo Bridge, the Ramsey brothers - Jacob and Aaron - and Kaine Kesler Hayden.
The game against the Championship promotion hopefuls will be played behind-closed-doors with strict Covid-19 restrictions in place as per government advice. Our colleagues at Bristol Live know the day and kick-off time but will not be publishing details to help maintain safety protocols.
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
Regarding Villa, Smith spoke to Villa TV today about the arrival of his new assistant, Shakespeare, and said: "Craig is somebody I wanted to bring in previously, but I was a little bit late and he’d already gone to Watford about a day before I tried getting him in here.
"I just wanted to add to the staff, I felt myself, Richard and JT were doing very well, but we just needed one more pair of extra hands. Preferably someone who has coached in the Premier League, which he has – and I also wanted to add to our coach’s tally of Premier League titles. We’ve now got seven! JT has six and he has one.
"He’s a really good coach, a really good guy and he’ll add to our coaching ranks."
Ahead of this week's friendly, Villa are without Douglas Luiz as he continues to self-isolate after spending time on holiday back home in Brazil. The midfielder will be available from next week. Tom Heaton is still injured, too, as he's set a return date for October 17.
Villa's squad for Bristol City is as follows,
Goalkeepers : Jed Steer, Lovre Kalinic, Orjan Nyland, Viljami Sinisalo
Defenders : Frederic Guilbert, Ahmed Elmohamady, Kaine Kesler, Ezri Konsa, Bjorn Engels, Kortney Hause, Tyrone Mings, Mungo Bridge, Neil Taylor, Matt Targett.
(Image: Neville Williams/Getty Images)
Midfielders : John McGinn ( above ), Marvelous Nakamba, Aaron Ramsey, Jacob Ramsey, Henri Lansbury, Conor Hourihane, Carney Chukwuemeka.
Wingers : Jaden Philogene-Bidace, Jack Grealish, Anwar El Ghazi, Trezeguet, Jota.
Strikers : Mbwana Samatta, Keinan Davis, Indiana Vassilev.