birminghammail--2020-03-09--Watch - Roller-skating cop shows off incredible skills at city skate park

This is the incredible moment an energetic cop showed off his amazing skills at a city skate park after a recent robbery spate .
Pc Demetrius Washington was filmed performing handstands and flips in a bid to engage youths at Oaklands Recreational Park , Yardley on Monday morning , March 9 .
Dressed in his uniform and in roller skates , the on-duty officer is seen pushing off from the top of the graffiti-clad ramp before flipping into a handstand move on the edge .
He then kicks up , rolls backwards and performs an impressive 360 degree flip in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been conducting patrols , hoped to engage the kids following a spate of robberies in the park .
And as the video was shared to social media , his stunt was widely praised in the community .
West Midlands Police tweeted the video and said : `` Incredible scenes as our very own PC Demetrius Washington shows the kids how it 's really done .
StechfordWMP have been carrying out patrols chatting to youngsters in the park after a number of recent robberies . ''
Many then branded the roller skating a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
One said : `` I live by the Oakland it 's about time we had COOL officer willing to break the ice with the youth most parks are negative spaces its time to make them positive space well done .
Another wrote : `` That act showing you are a real person behind that uniform will be remembered by all who witnessed it and will bring you respect for many years .
Well done to you PC Washington . ''
In the face of any negative comments , Twitter users were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` He is [ policing ] .
It ’ s called community engagement , in one of the hardest areas of Bham to engage with youths so pipe down , '' one added .

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This is the incredible moment an energetic cop showed off his amazing skills at a city skate park after a recent robbery spate.
Pc Demetrius Washington was filmed performing handstands and flips in a bid to engage youths at Oaklands Recreational Park, Yardley on Monday morning, March 9.
Dressed in his uniform and in roller skates, the on-duty officer is seen pushing off from the top of the graffiti-clad ramp before flipping into a handstand move on the edge.
He then kicks up, rolls backwards and performs an impressive 360 degree flip in the air. The officer, who had been conducting patrols, hoped to engage the kids following a spate of robberies in the park.
And as the video was shared to social media, his stunt was widely praised in the community.
West Midlands Police tweeted the video and said: "Incredible scenes as our very own PC Demetrius Washington shows the kids how it's really done. StechfordWMP have been carrying out patrols chatting to youngsters in the park after a number of recent robberies."
Many then branded the roller skating a "great way to engage young people".
One said: "I live by the Oakland it's about time we had COOL officer willing to break the ice with the youth most parks are negative spaces its time to make them positive space well done.
Another wrote: "That act showing you are a real person behind that uniform will be remembered by all who witnessed it and will bring you respect for many years. Well done to you PC Washington."
While a third commented: "Brilliant community engagement."
In the face of any negative comments, Twitter users were quick to defend the officer's actions.
"He is [policing]. It’s called community engagement, in one of the hardest areas of Bham to engage with youths so pipe down," one added.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Brit holidaymakers face losing money by cancelling Italy holidays amid coronavirus

Midlands holidaymakers who have booked summer breaks in Italy face losing money if they want to cancel now because of the coronavirus .
Travel trade association Abta has warned people who have paid for package holidays not due to begin in the next few days will need to wait to see if the situation changes .
On Sunday , the Foreign and Commonwealth Office updated its stance to advise against all but essential travel to parts of northern Italy , including Venice , Milan and Parma .
Anyone imminently due to visit the locations named by the FCO on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by their travel provider and a full refund if there are no suitable options .
If a tour operator refuses , customers may be entitled to compensation under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements 2018 regulations .
But Abta said `` it is too early '' to say that summer holidays can not go ahead as planned .
`` If you cancel early you may have to pay cancellation charges , '' it added .
Anyone who has booked flights or accommodation directly should contact their airline and accommodation provider to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should also check their travel insurance as it may cover non-refundable cancellation costs for trips to areas where the FCO is advising against all but essential travel .
Around 16 million people - more than a quarter of the Italian population - are in a state of lockdown until April 3 as the infection rate of Covid-19 continues to rise .
But British nationals are able to leave Italy without restriction .
The Government advice for anyone returning to the UK from locked-down areas in the last 14 days is to stay indoors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even if they do not have symptoms of the coronavirus .
Some flights continue to operate between the UK and Italy , although many have been cancelled , the Press Association reports .
EasyJet said it would be reviewing its flying programme to Milan Malpensa , Milan Linate , Venice and Verona airports from now until April 3 .
`` In the short term we will be cancelling a number of flights to and from these destinations on Monday 9 March , '' the airline said .
British Airways said it is also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passengers due to travel to or from northern Italy on Monday .
Ryanair has said it is not planning to cancel any routes , saying instead : `` We are following guidelines issued by the Italian government and the World Health Organisation . ''

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Midlands holidaymakers who have booked summer breaks in Italy face losing money if they want to cancel now because of the coronavirus.
Travel trade association Abta has warned people who have paid for package holidays not due to begin in the next few days will need to wait to see if the situation changes.
On Sunday, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office updated its stance to advise against all but essential travel to parts of northern Italy, including Venice, Milan and Parma.
Anyone imminently due to visit the locations named by the FCO on a package holiday should be offered alternative arrangements by their travel provider and a full refund if there are no suitable options.
(Image: Getty Images)
If a tour operator refuses, customers may be entitled to compensation under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements 2018 regulations.
But Abta said "it is too early" to say that summer holidays cannot go ahead as planned.
"If you cancel early you may have to pay cancellation charges," it added.
Approximately three million British nationals visit Italy every year.
Anyone who has booked flights or accommodation directly should contact their airline and accommodation provider to see what flexibility they are offering.
They should also check their travel insurance as it may cover non-refundable cancellation costs for trips to areas where the FCO is advising against all but essential travel.
Around 16 million people - more than a quarter of the Italian population - are in a state of lockdown until April 3 as the infection rate of Covid-19 continues to rise.
But British nationals are able to leave Italy without restriction.
The Government advice for anyone returning to the UK from locked-down areas in the last 14 days is to stay indoors and avoid contact with other people, even if they do not have symptoms of the coronavirus.
Some flights continue to operate between the UK and Italy, although many have been cancelled, the Press Association reports.
EasyJet said it would be reviewing its flying programme to Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Venice and Verona airports from now until April 3.
"In the short term we will be cancelling a number of flights to and from these destinations on Monday 9 March," the airline said.
British Airways said it is also reviewing its schedule and had contacted all passengers due to travel to or from northern Italy on Monday.
Ryanair has said it is not planning to cancel any routes, saying instead: "We are following guidelines issued by the Italian government and the World Health Organisation."


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Watch - Wraps come off the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games countdown clock

Birmingham is up and running towards the next Commonwealth Games - and that 's official .
The design of the countdown clock for the Birmingham 2022 event was billed as the city 's biggest secret .
And then all was finally revealed when it was finally unveiled in Centenary Square to the sound of a tribal drumbeat .
It incorporates a black digital timepiece on a yellow and green tubular frame shaped like the Games ' very own ' B ' logo .
And once every could see it , the clock revealed there were 870 days to go to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday , March 9 , 2020 , a black cloak was pulled away to the side in the direction of the Hall of Memory leading to a cheer from the gathered throng of dignitaries and athletes .
When the plans were submitted to Birmingham City Council in February , the ones posted online were 'redacted ' .
That meant nobody in the public domain could see what the end product would be like if they wanted to comment about the application .
When the delivery lorry arrived on Wednesday afternoon , the parts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So , once again , there could be no glimpse of the 'pylon ' sculpture .
But today , after four days of building work , all was finally revealed .
And my own , personal verdict ?
The yellow and green tubes of the 'pylon ' reminded me of the slides in swimming pools , the ones were kids go to do anything but properly swim .
The scale of the sculpture , rather like Gillian Wearing 's The Real Birmingham Family nearby , also seemed to be a touch lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was officially reopened on July 3 , 2019 after a total redesign costing more than £16 million .
The size of the countdown clock itself is such that you would need first class eyesight to be able to read it from the windows of a passing West Midlands Metro tram .
So that made me wonder ... might this pylon not have been better off in New Street or the centre of Rotunda Square at the heart of the city centre , where more people would always be there to photograph it ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The sculpture was revealed at 8.45am accompanied by a burst of rhythmic drumming that returned after the speeches had concluded .
Speakers included members of Birmingham 2022 , the Commonwealth Games Federation , Birmingham City Council and the official clock sponsor .
Pupils from local school Nelson Primary School were also in attendance .
Organisers had invited representatives from the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and The Commonwealth Games Federation .
Team England athletes were also asked to join in .
They included city-born gymnast Mimi Cesar , Newcastle-born middle distance runner and University @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paralympian Nathan Maguire , from Chester .
Rather than be trapped inside the event , I circled it to capture the moment in pictures and video .
I could hear the gathered throng being addressed with a warmth totally at odds with the wind sweeping across the exposed site .
One can but hope the weather gods are kinder when the Games are held from July 27 to August 7 , 2022 .
July 28 , 2022 , for example , will be the 17th anniversary of the afternoon tornado which destroyed roofs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across Moseley , Sparkbrook and Balsall Heath !
I walked down to the Symphony Hall end of the shallow fountain which now dominates that side of Centenary Square .
From here you get the city 's best 'wow-factor ' view back towards some of its flagship buildings including the Library of Birmingham and Baskerville House .
The pylon with countdown clock - sponsored by Longines Official Timekeeper - can barely be see from this far corner .
And while I could hear something was happening in the middle the square , any hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were dashed by the sound of angle grinders rebuilding the front of Symphony Hall .
The 870-day countdown might seem a long time - but there are many projects to be completed before the Games open , including the controversial demolition of the Perry Barr Flyover and all of the delays that will bring to the area .
In contrast , it took 912 days to build the Phase One Westside extentions of the West Midlands Metro line from Stephenson Street to Centenary Square .
The first passengers were able to use that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the line up to 54 Hagley Road is not expected to be in service until December 2021 .
Meanwhile , city planning officers were told Birmingham 2022 sculpture was `` Intended to be an attraction in the lead up to the event that will create positive publicity for the city and event alike .
`` ( It ) would have an irregular shape measuring 9.7m wide X 5.6m high X 3.6m deep to include a symmetrical twin access ramp allowing for disabled access .
`` The main sculpture would be composed of steel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Temporary planning permission was granted with a view to the sculpture being erected from Wednesday , March 4 until Monday , March 9 .
It would then be 'fully demountable ' on August 9 , 2022 after the Games have concluded .

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Birmingham is up and running towards the next Commonwealth Games - and that's official.
The design of the countdown clock for the Birmingham 2022 event was billed as the city's biggest secret.
And then all was finally revealed when it was finally unveiled in Centenary Square to the sound of a tribal drumbeat.
It incorporates a black digital timepiece on a yellow and green tubular frame shaped like the Games' very own 'B' logo.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
And once every could see it, the clock revealed there were 870 days to go to the opening ceremony.
At 8.45am on Monday, March 9, 2020, a black cloak was pulled away to the side in the direction of the Hall of Memory leading to a cheer from the gathered throng of dignitaries and athletes.
When the plans were submitted to Birmingham City Council in February, the ones posted online were 'redacted'.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
That meant nobody in the public domain could see what the end product would be like if they wanted to comment about the application.
When the delivery lorry arrived on Wednesday afternoon, the parts were in bits and mostly covered over.
So, once again, there could be no glimpse of the 'pylon' sculpture.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
But today, after four days of building work, all was finally revealed.
And my own, personal verdict?
The yellow and green tubes of the 'pylon' reminded me of the slides in swimming pools, the ones were kids go to do anything but properly swim.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
The scale of the sculpture, rather like Gillian Wearing's The Real Birmingham Family nearby, also seemed to be a touch lost in the new Centenary Square, which was officially reopened on July 3, 2019 after a total redesign costing more than £16 million.
The size of the countdown clock itself is such that you would need first class eyesight to be able to read it from the windows of a passing West Midlands Metro tram.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
So that made me wonder... might this pylon not have been better off in New Street or the centre of Rotunda Square at the heart of the city centre, where more people would always be there to photograph it ready to send images around the world?
The unveiling
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
The sculpture was revealed at 8.45am accompanied by a burst of rhythmic drumming that returned after the speeches had concluded.
Speakers included members of Birmingham 2022, the Commonwealth Games Federation, Birmingham City Council and the official clock sponsor.
Pupils from local school Nelson Primary School were also in attendance.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Organisers had invited representatives from the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and The Commonwealth Games Federation.
Team England athletes were also asked to join in.
They included city-born gymnast Mimi Cesar, Newcastle-born middle distance runner and University of Birmingham graduate Sarah McDonald and T54 Paralympian Nathan Maguire, from Chester.
The visual impact
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Rather than be trapped inside the event, I circled it to capture the moment in pictures and video.
I could hear the gathered throng being addressed with a warmth totally at odds with the wind sweeping across the exposed site.
One can but hope the weather gods are kinder when the Games are held from July 27 to August 7, 2022.
July 28, 2022, for example, will be the 17th anniversary of the afternoon tornado which destroyed roofs and brought down trees as it swept across Moseley, Sparkbrook and Balsall Heath!
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
I walked down to the Symphony Hall end of the shallow fountain which now dominates that side of Centenary Square.
From here you get the city's best 'wow-factor' view back towards some of its flagship buildings including the Library of Birmingham and Baskerville House.
The pylon with countdown clock - sponsored by Longines Official Timekeeper - can barely be see from this far corner.
And while I could hear something was happening in the middle the square, any hope of catching the spoken words from here were dashed by the sound of angle grinders rebuilding the front of Symphony Hall.
The schedule
The 870-day countdown might seem a long time - but there are many projects to be completed before the Games open, including the controversial demolition of the Perry Barr Flyover and all of the delays that will bring to the area.
In contrast, it took 912 days to build the Phase One Westside extentions of the West Midlands Metro line from Stephenson Street to Centenary Square.
The first passengers were able to use that line from December 11, 2019 but the line up to 54 Hagley Road is not expected to be in service until December 2021.
(Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
Meanwhile, city planning officers were told Birmingham 2022 sculpture was "Intended to be an attraction in the lead up to the event that will create positive publicity for the city and event alike.
"(It) would have an irregular shape measuring 9.7m wide X 5.6m high X 3.6m deep to include a symmetrical twin access ramp allowing for disabled access.
"The main sculpture would be composed of steel tubes with a rubber based resin flooring."
Temporary planning permission was granted with a view to the sculpture being erected from Wednesday, March 4 until Monday, March 9.
It would then be 'fully demountable' on August 9, 2022 after the Games have concluded.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Solihull needs 'seismic' shift to confront climate change emergency

Tackling the climate crisis will need a `` seismic '' shift in Solihull Council policies across the board , with a drive to get more people on public transport and to build greener homes .
Councillors had unanimously declared a climate emergency last autumn and this week the cabinet was briefed on work being done to cut carbon emissions and protect the environment .
A special commission is being set up to help steer policy , with other key priorities including clamping down on single-use plastic and a large-scale tree-planting programme .
Cllr Ian Courts , leader of the council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think we all have a commitment to this .
`` And as we know this is an ongoing agenda , this will always be a work in progress I think . ''
Cllr Max McLoughlin ( Green , Shirley South ) said he welcomed many of the initiatives but there were still some areas that needed to be improved ; he cited concern about the danger of becoming `` dependent '' on burning a proportion of waste .
`` Once you go down that route of incineration , it basically creates a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll burn it , we 'll get energy from it ' .
And the dependency is on non-sustainable forms of energy . ''
Cllr Andy Mackiewicz , cabinet member for climate change , planning and housing , argued the waste-to-energy plant , which Solihull shares with neighbouring Coventry , had a `` negligible '' impact on the environment .
`` It would take 116 years of operation to match the dioxin emission levels of one fireworks display on the South Bank ... '' If you put all the cars you 've got as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our cars do . ''
And he argued that the technology today , which burns waste at 1,000 degrees , was a world away from the systems which been used in decades gone by .
Cabinet agreed to approve the updated climate change prospectus and the commission is set to move forward in the next few months .

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Tackling the climate crisis will need a "seismic" shift in Solihull Council policies across the board, with a drive to get more people on public transport and to build greener homes.
Councillors had unanimously declared a climate emergency last autumn and this week the cabinet was briefed on work being done to cut carbon emissions and protect the environment.
A special commission is being set up to help steer policy, with other key priorities including clamping down on single-use plastic and a large-scale tree-planting programme.
Cllr Ian Courts, leader of the council, said: "In the end I think we all have a commitment to this.
"And as we know this is an ongoing agenda, this will always be a work in progress I think."
Cllr Max McLoughlin (Green, Shirley South) said he welcomed many of the initiatives but there were still some areas that needed to be improved; he cited concern about the danger of becoming "dependent" on burning a proportion of waste.
(Image: WMFS/ Oldbury Fire Station)
"Once you go down that route of incineration, it basically creates a sense of 'it's alright, we'll burn it, we'll get energy from it'. And the dependency is on non-sustainable forms of energy."
Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet member for climate change, planning and housing, argued the waste-to-energy plant, which Solihull shares with neighbouring Coventry, had a "negligible" impact on the environment.
"It would take 116 years of operation to match the dioxin emission levels of one fireworks display on the South Bank...
"If you put all the cars you've got as councillors, it produces less pollution than our cars do."
And he argued that the technology today, which burns waste at 1,000 degrees, was a world away from the systems which been used in decades gone by.
Cabinet agreed to approve the updated climate change prospectus and the commission is set to move forward in the next few months.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Car showroom could be bulldozed in Solihull to make way for new homes

A car sales showroom in a Solihull village would be bulldozed to make way for new housing , under plans handed to the council .
Proposals would see the redevelopment of the Johnson 's garage site , on Station Road , in Knowle .
The terraced housing complex would take the place of the commercial premises , with a total of nine dwellings erected .
The development would consist of three three-bedroom properties to the front and six more two and three-bedroom homes built to the rear .
Car parking , with room for two spaces per dwelling , would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Richard Cobb , acting for applicants Mr and Mrs Wood , has been at pains to point out that while the houses would be near to Knowle conservation area , the site is outside its boundaries - in an area identified for `` enhancement '' .
Although the appearance of a premises near to a protected area is still likely to be a key consideration for the borough 's planning officers .
`` [ The scheme ] provides greatly needed new homes to the village , '' said the papers handed to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to contain a mix of house types and sizes including terraced housing and this feature will be reflected within the development proposals . ''
The planning application is expected to be considered by Solihull Council in the coming months

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A car sales showroom in a Solihull village would be bulldozed to make way for new housing, under plans handed to the council.
Proposals would see the redevelopment of the Johnson's garage site, on Station Road, in Knowle.
The terraced housing complex would take the place of the commercial premises, with a total of nine dwellings erected.
The development would consist of three three-bedroom properties to the front and six more two and three-bedroom homes built to the rear. Car parking, with room for two spaces per dwelling, would also be provided.
(Image: Solihull Council planning portal)
Chartered town planner Richard Cobb, acting for applicants Mr and Mrs Wood, has been at pains to point out that while the houses would be near to Knowle conservation area, the site is outside its boundaries - in an area identified for "enhancement".
Although the appearance of a premises near to a protected area is still likely to be a key consideration for the borough's planning officers.
"[The scheme] provides greatly needed new homes to the village," said the papers handed to the planning department.
"Knowle is seen to contain a mix of house types and sizes including terraced housing and this feature will be reflected within the development proposals."
The planning application is expected to be considered by Solihull Council in the coming months


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Gordon’s White Peach Distilled Gin is now being sold in one UK supermarket

Asda is introducing Gordon ’ s White Peach Distilled Gin providing Brits with another delicious premium tipple , this time with a fruity twist , for only £13 .
Available to buy exclusively at Asda , Brits will be able to get their hands on this subtly sweet serve from the 10th March just in time for spring .
The naturally mellow flavour of white peach is crafted using the fruity aromatic notes to make taste buds bloom .
The new variant is best served with a slice of peach , or a fresh basil leaf topped with crushed ice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tonic .
Lauren Bungay , Asda spirits buyer , comments : “ The gin trend doesn ’ t seem to be slowing down , and with the launch of new and innovative flavours , there ’ s even more reasons for gin lovers to stick to their drink of choice . ''
She added : This summer , we ’ re offering our customers a variety of products to enjoy , whether the British Summer serves up sunshine or rain !
” Each week more than 18 million customers visit its 639 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Superstores , 159 Supermarkets , 33 Asda Living stores , and 18 standalone petrol stations - and websites , and are served by 145,000 colleagues

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Asda is introducing Gordon’s White Peach Distilled Gin providing Brits with another delicious premium tipple, this time with a fruity twist, for only £13.
Available to buy exclusively at Asda, Brits will be able to get their hands on this subtly sweet serve from the 10th March just in time for spring.
The naturally mellow flavour of white peach is crafted using the fruity aromatic notes to make taste buds bloom. The new variant is best served with a slice of peach, or a fresh basil leaf topped with crushed ice and carefully balanced with a refreshing taste of tonic.
Lauren Bungay, Asda spirits buyer, comments: “The gin trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down, and with the launch of new and innovative flavours, there’s even more reasons for gin lovers to stick to their drink of choice."
She added: This summer, we’re offering our customers a variety of products to enjoy, whether the British Summer serves up sunshine or rain!”
Each week more than 18 million customers visit its 639 stores - including 30 Supercentres, 394 Superstores, 159 Supermarkets, 33 Asda Living stores, and 18 standalone petrol stations - and websites, and are served by 145,000 colleagues


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Revealed: The Birmingham City, Leeds United and Derby County stars up for Player of the Month

Birmingham City ’ s leading scorer Lukas Jutkiewicz has been nominated for the PFA ’ s Bristol Street Motors Player of the Month award for February .
The striker , who has forged a superb partnership with Scott Hogan , has been included on a six-strong shortlist which also includes Leeds United ’ s Luke Ayling and Derby ’ s Tom Lawrence .
The other nominees are Brentford ’ s Said Benrahma , Cauley Woodrow of Barnsley and Blackburn goalkeeper Christian Walton .
Jutkiewicz played seven Championship matches last month and laid on two assists while scoring three goals himself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season and with nine games remaining is well on target to break his personal career high of 14 .
Ayling was part of a Leeds team that kept five clean sheets during February and also scored twice himself .
Benrahma is part of the Bees famed BMW front three alongside Ollie Wakins and Bryan Mbuemo , while Woodrow inspired the Tykes battle against relegation with five goals last month .
Walton , meanwhile , kept three clean sheets for a Rovers team knocking on the play-off door .
This Award is decided by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can vote here .
Voting is open now and closes at 8am on Wednesday , March 11 , with the winner announced three hours later .

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Birmingham City’s leading scorer Lukas Jutkiewicz has been nominated for the PFA’s Bristol Street Motors Player of the Month award for February.
The striker, who has forged a superb partnership with Scott Hogan, has been included on a six-strong shortlist which also includes Leeds United’s Luke Ayling and Derby’s Tom Lawrence.
The other nominees are Brentford’s Said Benrahma, Cauley Woodrow of Barnsley and Blackburn goalkeeper Christian Walton.
Jutkiewicz played seven Championship matches last month and laid on two assists while scoring three goals himself. He now has 13 for the season and with nine games remaining is well on target to break his personal career high of 14.
Ayling was part of a Leeds team that kept five clean sheets during February and also scored twice himself.
Benrahma is part of the Bees famed BMW front three alongside Ollie Wakins and Bryan Mbuemo, while Woodrow inspired the Tykes battle against relegation with five goals last month.
Walton, meanwhile, kept three clean sheets for a Rovers team knocking on the play-off door.
This Award is decided by football fans across the globe and supporters can vote here.
Voting is open now and closes at 8am on Wednesday, March 11, with the winner announced three hours later.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--"They'd take that" - Former Aston Villa star makes key survival prediction

At the start of the season , Aston Villa 's final fixture of the season did n't look at all pivotal .
However , due to the season endured by both Villa and their last-day opponents West Ham United , it could all come down to the wire .
19th place Villa and 16th place West Ham take each other on at the London Stadium in the final game of the Premier League season on the 17th of May - and right now they are separated by just two points .
It 's all set up for a drastic and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and one former Villa star believes his old side would happily accept going into the Hammers fixture knowing that a win would save them - and that a loss would mean relegation .
But there 's a catch , he 'd take if Villa head into it , knowing that the Hammers are safe .
`` They ’ d take that , [ with their fixture list ] '' said Paul Merson on Soccer Saturday .
`` If they could go to West Ham on the last day of the season and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to win , they ’ d bite your arm off for that . ''
Villa have two games in hand on their relegation rivals , and a win tonight against Leicester will send the best message possible - and send Villa out of the relegation zone .
It 'll also go someway towards taking the pressure - and focus - off of that final day game in London .

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At the start of the season, Aston Villa's final fixture of the season didn't look at all pivotal.
However, due to the season endured by both Villa and their last-day opponents West Ham United, it could all come down to the wire.
19th place Villa and 16th place West Ham take each other on at the London Stadium in the final game of the Premier League season on the 17th of May - and right now they are separated by just two points.
It's all set up for a drastic and exciting final day of the fixture list, and one former Villa star believes his old side would happily accept going into the Hammers fixture knowing that a win would save them - and that a loss would mean relegation.
But there's a catch, he'd take if Villa head into it, knowing that the Hammers are safe.
"They’d take that, [with their fixture list]" said Paul Merson on Soccer Saturday .
"If they could go to West Ham on the last day of the season and West Ham are safe, and they need to win, they’d bite your arm off for that."
Villa have two games in hand on their relegation rivals, and a win tonight against Leicester will send the best message possible - and send Villa out of the relegation zone.
It'll also go someway towards taking the pressure - and focus - off of that final day game in London.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Khalid Mahmood, England's first Muslim MP, defends Trevor Phillips in Islamophobia row

Birmingham Labour MP Khalid Mahmood has come to the defence of anti-racism campaigner Trevor Phillips , after Mr Phillips was suspended from the Labour Party over allegations of Islamophobia .
Mr Mahmood ( Lab Perry Barr ) , the first Muslim to be elected as an MP in England , called the suspension “ a sad – and frankly embarrassing – episode for my party ” .
Mr Phillips , the former chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission , faces an investigation and could be expelled from the party .
Labour has not publicly confirmed what he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Times newspaper said the inquiry follows comments he made about Pakistani Muslim men sexually abusing children in northern British towns .
Many of his statements date back years .
He has also been a critic of the Labour leadership 's failure to take action against anti-Semitism , and Mr Mahmood suggested Mr Phillips had in fact been suspended because he was a `` difficult voice '' .
Writing in a pamphlet published by think tank Policy Exchange , Mr Mahmood said : “ It was with no small measure of astonishment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Labour Party , had initiated proceedings against Trevor Phillips on grounds of ‘ racism ’ and ‘ Islamophobia ’ .
The charges are so outlandish as to bring disrepute on all involved in making them ; and I fear they further add to the sense that we , as a party , have badly lost our way.
” He said Labour had adopted a definition of Islamophobia and “ seems to be intent on wielding it as a weapon for rooting out ‘ difficult ’ voices.
” The All-Party Parliamentary Group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.
” The group includes politicians from all parties , including Conservative peer Baroness Warsi as well as Labour politicians such as Mr Mahmood .
It also includes MPs from a range of religions and ethnic backgrounds .
Labour has officially adopted the definition .
However , Mr Mahmood has criticised it , saying that it is “ fundamentally flawed ” .
He said : “ It ’ s time for new thinking that allows us to get past endless debates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what really matters : improving the lives of millions of British Muslims who want to live as successful , prosperous and equal members of our society.
” Mr Phillips has defended himself and accused Labour of attempting to restrict members from having a “ healthy debate ” about how British society could “ address differences of values ” .
Speaking to the BBC , he argued that society had to learn to deal with Islamic differences rather than hope Muslims would assimilate to a British way of life .
Answering allegations of Islamophobia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was no suggestion that he had done anything unlawful and “ no-one inside or outside the Labour Party has ever suggested that I have broken any rules ” .
He said the party had sent him an 11-page letter and told him he was forbidden from publishing the details of his suspension .
He told BBC Radio 4 ’ s Today programme : “ I ’ m surprised about what is and always has been an open and democratic party deciding that its members can not have healthy debate about how we address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Let us be clear about this .
They say I ’ m accusing Muslims of being different .
“ Well , actually , that ’ s true .
Muslims are different and , in many ways , I think that ’ s admirable.
” The 66-year-old said it was “ nonsense ” to define being anti-Islam as racist , arguing that Muslims do not identify as a race .
Asked about his assertion that British Muslims are “ becoming a nation within a nation ” being adopted by far-right campaigner Tommy Robinson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grandmother says , just because the devil picks up a tune doesn ’ t mean it is a bad tune.
” In the run-up to the general election , Mr Phillips was among 24 public figures who last year declared their refusal to vote for the Labour Party because of its association with anti-Semitism .
In a letter to the Guardian in November , the group said the path to a more tolerant society “ must encompass Britain ’ s Jews with unwavering solidarity ” and said Jeremy Corbyn has “ a long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A Labour Party spokeswoman said : “ The Labour Party takes all complaints about Islamophobia extremely seriously and they are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures , and any appropriate disciplinary action is taken .
”

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Birmingham Labour MP Khalid Mahmood has come to the defence of anti-racism campaigner Trevor Phillips, after Mr Phillips was suspended from the Labour Party over allegations of Islamophobia.
Mr Mahmood (Lab Perry Barr), the first Muslim to be elected as an MP in England, called the suspension “a sad – and frankly embarrassing – episode for my party”.
Mr Phillips, the former chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, faces an investigation and could be expelled from the party. Labour has not publicly confirmed what he is accused of doing, but a report in the Times newspaper said the inquiry follows comments he made about Pakistani Muslim men sexually abusing children in northern British towns. Many of his statements date back years.
He has also been a critic of the Labour leadership's failure to take action against anti-Semitism, and Mr Mahmood suggested Mr Phillips had in fact been suspended because he was a "difficult voice".
Writing in a pamphlet published by think tank Policy Exchange, Mr Mahmood said: “It was with no small measure of astonishment that I learnt that my own party, the Labour Party, had initiated proceedings against Trevor Phillips on grounds of ‘racism’ and ‘Islamophobia’. The charges are so outlandish as to bring disrepute on all involved in making them; and I fear they further add to the sense that we, as a party, have badly lost our way.”
He said Labour had adopted a definition of Islamophobia and “seems to be intent on wielding it as a weapon for rooting out ‘difficult’ voices.”
The All-Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims has defined Islamophobia as “a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.” The group includes politicians from all parties, including Conservative peer Baroness Warsi as well as Labour politicians such as Mr Mahmood. It also includes MPs from a range of religions and ethnic backgrounds.
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Labour has officially adopted the definition. However, Mr Mahmood has criticised it, saying that it is “fundamentally flawed”.
He said: “It’s time for new thinking that allows us to get past endless debates about language and instead to focus on what really matters: improving the lives of millions of British Muslims who want to live as successful, prosperous and equal members of our society.”
Mr Phillips has defended himself and accused Labour of attempting to restrict members from having a “healthy debate” about how British society could “address differences of values”.
Speaking to the BBC, he argued that society had to learn to deal with Islamic differences rather than hope Muslims would assimilate to a British way of life.
Answering allegations of Islamophobia, Mr Phillips told the Times there was no suggestion that he had done anything unlawful and “no-one inside or outside the Labour Party has ever suggested that I have broken any rules”.
He said the party had sent him an 11-page letter and told him he was forbidden from publishing the details of his suspension.
He told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I’m surprised about what is and always has been an open and democratic party deciding that its members cannot have healthy debate about how we address differences of values and outlooks.
“Let us be clear about this. They say I’m accusing Muslims of being different.
“Well, actually, that’s true. Muslims are different and, in many ways, I think that’s admirable.”
The 66-year-old said it was “nonsense” to define being anti-Islam as racist, arguing that Muslims do not identify as a race.
Asked about his assertion that British Muslims are “becoming a nation within a nation” being adopted by far-right campaigner Tommy Robinson, Mr Phillips replied: “As my grandmother says, just because the devil picks up a tune doesn’t mean it is a bad tune.”
In the run-up to the general election, Mr Phillips was among 24 public figures who last year declared their refusal to vote for the Labour Party because of its association with anti-Semitism.
In a letter to the Guardian in November, the group said the path to a more tolerant society “must encompass Britain’s Jews with unwavering solidarity” and said Jeremy Corbyn has “a long record of embracing anti-Semites as comrades”.
A Labour Party spokeswoman said: “The Labour Party takes all complaints about Islamophobia extremely seriously and they are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures, and any appropriate disciplinary action is taken.”


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Bromsgrove mum and son who have battled cancer together for four years given all-clear

A mum and son who have been battling cancer together for almost four years have BOTH been given the all-clear .
Mum , Vici Rigby , and her son , George were diagnosed with cancer within a few months of each other .
Vici , 40 , was diagnosed first with stage four colorectal cancer and just five months later her four-year-old son , George , was found to have acute lymphoblastic leukaemia .
In the autumn of 2016 , she started treatment for the disease while George received his terrible news in January 2017 , three weeks after Vici @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six rounds of chemotherapy followed by surgery on her liver and bowel , radiotherapy and then 12 more rounds of chemotherapy , but Vici fought through the illness .
However , both have now beaten the disease and the family is now settling into a new area after moving house shortly before George finished his treatment .
Vici , from Bromsgrove , Worcs.
, said : `` When I was diagnosed it was just shock and my first thought was about the boys .
`` I just assumed the outcome would be bad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` When George was diagnosed , it ’ s hard to put into words really , the rug was pulled from underneath us again but this time it was our four-year-old boy .
`` There ’ s no way to really rationalise it in your mind .
I guess on one hand we were just shell shocked again but on the other hand , we were so used to talking about and living through cancer that it almost felt like this is what we did .
`` I remember thinking we now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for us both to get better .
`` Quite early on , George ’ s prognosis was very good so even though it was the most difficult period of time to get through , we always had a lot of hope and reassurance that he would recover . ''
After three and a half years of care at Worcestershire Royal Hospital , George recently rang the bell to signify being given the all-clear .
Vici , who was discharged a few months before , said : “ It feels quite surreal when you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ re looking at three years of treatment .
“ You never think the day is going to come .
You get into the routine of hospital appointments and planning your lives around that .
“ Then , all of a sudden , we can now make plans , book a holiday and arrange things without the worry.
” The family decided to move from Bromsgrove to Tenby , Wales last summer , not long after Vici had completed her treatment .
However , rather than transfer George ’ s treatment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vici and husband , Jamie , decided to undertake a monthly 350-mile , seven-hour round trip so he could be treated at Worcestershire Royal Hospital for the crucial final few months .
Vici explained : “ When George was first taken into hospital to get his diagnosis I was still recovering from surgery myself .
“ But the team at Worcester were amazing , I honestly can ’ t praise them enough .
“ There were a few times when both I and George were in the hospital at the same time and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We moved to Tenby last year we decided to keep George ’ s care with Worcester as the care we ’ ve received has been absolutely outstanding .
“ Dawn and Baylon , in particular , are so knowledgeable , attentive , caring and we have complete trust in them .
Despite an extremely testing few years for the family , they have been able to give George a relatively normal childhood .
Vici continued : “ He ’ s done everything his peers have done , we ’ ve tried to treat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the treatment he has to have on a daily basis , it hasn ’ t stopped him doing anything .
“ He plays football , goes swimming and is doing really well at school , he ’ s very active and bright and he hasn ’ t once complained about his situation .
“ We ’ ve both received the best care in Worcestershire and my Clinical Nurse Specialist , Bernice continues to support me now .
“ We ’ re so grateful for their care and they really have become like a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Young People ’ s Oncology Nurse Specialist , Dawn Forbes said : “ It ’ s been an absolute pleasure to care for George and his family over the last three and a half years .
“ George has been very brave throughout his treatment .
We are in awe of George ’ s parents , Vici and Jamie , who have also shown immense resilience throughout his treatment .
“ It ’ s a testament to the service and care we provide , and the fantastic relationship we all have with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have chosen to continue receiving his treatment here in Worcestershire considering they moved to Wales last summer.
” Bernice Kent , the Clinical Nurse Specialist who cared for Vici , said : “ We ’ re thrilled that both Vici and George have now completed their treatment .
“ They have both been through so much , but it ’ s lovely to see such a positive ending to such an awful time .
”

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Tom Hitchenor, James Rodger)

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A mum and son who have been battling cancer together for almost four years have BOTH been given the all-clear.
Mum, Vici Rigby, and her son, George were diagnosed with cancer within a few months of each other.
Vici, 40, was diagnosed first with stage four colorectal cancer and just five months later her four-year-old son, George, was found to have acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
In the autumn of 2016, she started treatment for the disease while George received his terrible news in January 2017, three weeks after Vici had undergone liver surgery.
It involved six rounds of chemotherapy followed by surgery on her liver and bowel, radiotherapy and then 12 more rounds of chemotherapy, but Vici fought through the illness.
However, both have now beaten the disease and the family is now settling into a new area after moving house shortly before George finished his treatment.
Vici, from Bromsgrove, Worcs., said: "When I was diagnosed it was just shock and my first thought was about the boys.
"I just assumed the outcome would be bad, considering the seriousness of the diagnosis.
(Image: Worcestershire Acute Hospitals N)
"When George was diagnosed, it’s hard to put into words really, the rug was pulled from underneath us again but this time it was our four-year-old boy.
"There’s no way to really rationalise it in your mind. I guess on one hand we were just shell shocked again but on the other hand, we were so used to talking about and living through cancer that it almost felt like this is what we did.
"I remember thinking we now had to hope for two miracles, for us both to get better.
"Quite early on, George’s prognosis was very good so even though it was the most difficult period of time to get through, we always had a lot of hope and reassurance that he would recover."
(Image: Worcestershire Acute Hospitals N)
After three and a half years of care at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, George recently rang the bell to signify being given the all-clear.
Vici, who was discharged a few months before, said: “It feels quite surreal when you are given that first diagnosis and know you’re looking at three years of treatment.
“You never think the day is going to come. You get into the routine of hospital appointments and planning your lives around that.
“Then, all of a sudden, we can now make plans, book a holiday and arrange things without the worry.”
(Image: Vici Rigby /SWNS.COM)
The family decided to move from Bromsgrove to Tenby, Wales last summer, not long after Vici had completed her treatment.
However, rather than transfer George’s treatment to a hospital in their new location, Vici and husband, Jamie, decided to undertake a monthly 350-mile, seven-hour round trip so he could be treated at Worcestershire Royal Hospital for the crucial final few months.
Vici explained: “When George was first taken into hospital to get his diagnosis I was still recovering from surgery myself.
“But the team at Worcester were amazing, I honestly can’t praise them enough.
“There were a few times when both I and George were in the hospital at the same time and they were all just brilliant.
(Image: Worcestershire Acute Hospitals N)
“We moved to Tenby last year we decided to keep George’s care with Worcester as the care we’ve received has been absolutely outstanding.
“Dawn and Baylon, in particular, are so knowledgeable, attentive, caring and we have complete trust in them.
Despite an extremely testing few years for the family, they have been able to give George a relatively normal childhood.
Vici continued: “He’s done everything his peers have done, we’ve tried to treat him as normally as possible and considering the treatment he has to have on a daily basis, it hasn’t stopped him doing anything.
“He plays football, goes swimming and is doing really well at school, he’s very active and bright and he hasn’t once complained about his situation.
“We’ve both received the best care in Worcestershire and my Clinical Nurse Specialist, Bernice continues to support me now.
“We’re so grateful for their care and they really have become like a second family to us all.”
(Image: Vici Rigby /SWNS.COM)
Children and Young People’s Oncology Nurse Specialist, Dawn Forbes said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to care for George and his family over the last three and a half years.
“George has been very brave throughout his treatment. We are in awe of George’s parents, Vici and Jamie, who have also shown immense resilience throughout his treatment.
“It’s a testament to the service and care we provide, and the fantastic relationship we all have with George and his family, that they have chosen to continue receiving his treatment here in Worcestershire considering they moved to Wales last summer.”
Bernice Kent, the Clinical Nurse Specialist who cared for Vici, said: “We’re thrilled that both Vici and George have now completed their treatment.
“They have both been through so much, but it’s lovely to see such a positive ending to such an awful time.”


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Sky and BT may be forced to broadcast football matches for free amid coronavirus fears

Sky and BT could broadcast football matches for free if games have to be played without fans behind closed doors amid the coronavirus outbreak .
The broadcasting giants may be requested to show games for free if spectators are banned - news which will surely delight Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers fans .
West Brom and Birmingham City supporters could also benefit , with EFL games likely to be affected alongside the Premier League .
The news has emerged as fears surface over fans attending games amid the coronavirus outbreak , which has seen over 200 cases in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be urged to continue showing games at empty stadiums and subscription TV channels believe they may be asked to make games free-to-air , it is claimed .
A Government minister , meanwhile , has allayed fears that sporting events will imminently have to be cancelled , postponed or played behind closed doors due to coronavirus concerns .
National media reports in recent days have indicated there is a `` growing expectation '' Premier League matches could be held in empty stadiums within weeks .
Speaking today on BBC Radio 5 Live , culture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this stage we 're not in the territory of cancelling or postponing events . ''
He added : `` I was at Twickenham [ for England v Wales ] with the Prime Minister [ on Saturday ] .
`` There was a huge crowd of people there .
There is no reason why people should not be going to those events .
`` It is very premature to be talking about things like that . ''
Dowden said that the Government will continue to act on advice issued by medical experts .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked the chief medical officer to brief the sporting bodies last week and that is why we will be driven by the advice of the chief medical officer as we continue .
`` I do want to emphasise in relation to sporting events , any talk of cancellation is very premature indeed .
`` At the moment there is no evidence to suggest we should be doing that and we do n't have any plans to . ''

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Sky and BT could broadcast football matches for free if games have to be played without fans behind closed doors amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The broadcasting giants may be requested to show games for free if spectators are banned - news which will surely delight Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers fans.
West Brom and Birmingham City supporters could also benefit, with EFL games likely to be affected alongside the Premier League.
The news has emerged as fears surface over fans attending games amid the coronavirus outbreak, which has seen over 200 cases in the UK, and three deaths.
Broadcasters will be urged to continue showing games at empty stadiums and subscription TV channels believe they may be asked to make games free-to-air, it is claimed.
(Image: Ben Radford/Getty Images)
A Government minister, meanwhile, has allayed fears that sporting events will imminently have to be cancelled, postponed or played behind closed doors due to coronavirus concerns.
National media reports in recent days have indicated there is a "growing expectation" Premier League matches could be held in empty stadiums within weeks.
Speaking today on BBC Radio 5 Live, culture secretary Oliver Dowden said: "At this stage we're not in the territory of cancelling or postponing events."
He added: "I was at Twickenham [for England v Wales] with the Prime Minister [on Saturday].
"There was a huge crowd of people there. There is no reason why people should not be going to those events.
"It is very premature to be talking about things like that."
Dowden said that the Government will continue to act on advice issued by medical experts.
He said: "That is why I asked the chief medical officer to brief the sporting bodies last week and that is why we will be driven by the advice of the chief medical officer as we continue.
"I do want to emphasise in relation to sporting events, any talk of cancellation is very premature indeed.
"At the moment there is no evidence to suggest we should be doing that and we don't have any plans to."


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Liverpool legend offers Aston Villa star Jack Grealish some crucial advice

Former Liverpool player Graeme Souness believes Jack Grealish needs to make certain improvements to his game to break into the England team .
Aston Villa have been kept alive by the performances of Grealish this season .
and while Villa have succeeded in some games through other sources of ability , Grealish - Villa 's captain - has largely been the catalyst behind any good performance that Dean Smith 's side turn out .
However , despite his rise to the top , Grealish has yet to receive a call-up to the England national team .
While Smith has tipped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , like Souness , believe he still has improvements to make to break into the international side , let alone cement a constant place in the England set-up .
The former Liverpool player and Blackburn Rovers manager was analysing playmakers - as well as Grealish 's chances of making it to the Three Lions squad this month .
`` Jack Grealish is another contender [ for an England role ] although I ’ d like him to have fewer touches of the ball and learn to move it more quickly , '' wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any striker what he wants from his midfielders and it will be two-touch , to get the ball to them as early and economically as possible in the final third . ''
It is often noted in analysis that Grealish is the football-magnet for the Villans and the source for the majority of their attacking play - and for good reason .
He can travel with the ball directly to goal , avoiding a loss of possession in transition .
Could Grealish do with shaving seconds off of his time in possession ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deliver , and so far - he has .

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Former Liverpool player Graeme Souness believes Jack Grealish needs to make certain improvements to his game to break into the England team.
Aston Villa have been kept alive by the performances of Grealish this season. and while Villa have succeeded in some games through other sources of ability, Grealish - Villa's captain - has largely been the catalyst behind any good performance that Dean Smith's side turn out.
However, despite his rise to the top, Grealish has yet to receive a call-up to the England national team.
While Smith has tipped Grealish for the Three Lions, others, like Souness, believe he still has improvements to make to break into the international side, let alone cement a constant place in the England set-up.
The former Liverpool player and Blackburn Rovers manager was analysing playmakers - as well as Grealish's chances of making it to the Three Lions squad this month.
"Jack Grealish is another contender [for an England role] although I’d like him to have fewer touches of the ball and learn to move it more quickly," wrote Souness for The Times.
"Ask any striker what he wants from his midfielders and it will be two-touch, to get the ball to them as early and economically as possible in the final third."
It is often noted in analysis that Grealish is the football-magnet for the Villans and the source for the majority of their attacking play - and for good reason. He can travel with the ball directly to goal, avoiding a loss of possession in transition.
Could Grealish do with shaving seconds off of his time in possession? Possibly, but Villa have trusted him to deliver, and so far - he has.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Coronavirus latest: Olympiakos vs Wolves update as emergency meetings held

More than 1,000 Wolverhampton Wanderers fans are in limbo with coronavirus threatening to ruin their Greek expedition .
Wolves face Olympiakos at the Karaiskakis Stadium on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie .
However , due to the ongoing spread of coronavirus in Europe , the Greek government has issued a blanket ban on people watching sporting events for at least the next two weeks .
That could well prevent Wolves fans from cheering on Nuno Espirito Santo ’ s players in Piraeus on Thursday evening .
But what exactly is the situation ?
Wolves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s match in Greece , most of which have already been snapped up by eager supporters .
Those who have got tickets have already booked flights and accommodation in anticipation of the club ’ s eighth away day of a European campaign which started in late July .
Wolves ' European adventure has n't been without tests for the the club 's supporters .
Fans were prevented from attending the group stage clash at Slovan Bratislava after UEFA ordered the Slovakian side to play the fixture behind closed doors .
Greece reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of February and a total of 73 have since been confirmed .
Many of those are outside Athens but the Greek government is understandably determined to avoid further spread .
In comparison , the confirmed cases in the United Kingdom run into the hundreds and three Brits have died .
In order to avoid further confusion , Olympiakos , the Greek government and UEFA are expected to reach a decision imminently .
No UEFA matches have fallen victim to coronavirus as of yet , but Inter Milan were ordered to play their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed doors .
Italy is far more severely affected than any other European country though with thousands of confirmed cases of coronavirus .
What will happen to Premier League games ?
Prime minister Boris Johnson will chair an emergency cobra meeting today to discuss ways in which to stop the spread of the disease .
There are suggestions that large sporting events could be banned temporarily which would directly impact Wolves .
Wolves still have nine Premier League fixtures to play in addition to their Europa League campaign .

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More than 1,000 Wolverhampton Wanderers fans are in limbo with coronavirus threatening to ruin their Greek expedition.
Wolves face Olympiakos at the Karaiskakis Stadium on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie.
However, due to the ongoing spread of coronavirus in Europe, the Greek government has issued a blanket ban on people watching sporting events for at least the next two weeks.
That could well prevent Wolves fans from cheering on Nuno Espirito Santo’s players in Piraeus on Thursday evening.
But what exactly is the situation?
Olympiakos latest
Wolves were allocated 1,600 tickets for this week’s match in Greece, most of which have already been snapped up by eager supporters.
Those who have got tickets have already booked flights and accommodation in anticipation of the club’s eighth away day of a European campaign which started in late July.
Wolves' European adventure hasn't been without tests for the the club's supporters. Fans were prevented from attending the group stage clash at Slovan Bratislava after UEFA ordered the Slovakian side to play the fixture behind closed doors.
How badly is Greece affected?
Greece reported its first case of coronavirus towards the end of February and a total of 73 have since been confirmed.
Many of those are outside Athens but the Greek government is understandably determined to avoid further spread.
In comparison, the confirmed cases in the United Kingdom run into the hundreds and three Brits have died.
When will news arrive?
In order to avoid further confusion, Olympiakos, the Greek government and UEFA are expected to reach a decision imminently.
No UEFA matches have fallen victim to coronavirus as of yet, but Inter Milan were ordered to play their Round of 32 match with Ludogorets behind closed doors.
Italy is far more severely affected than any other European country though with thousands of confirmed cases of coronavirus.
What will happen to Premier League games?
Prime minister Boris Johnson will chair an emergency cobra meeting today to discuss ways in which to stop the spread of the disease.
There are suggestions that large sporting events could be banned temporarily which would directly impact Wolves.
Wolves still have nine Premier League fixtures to play in addition to their Europa League campaign.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Primark shoppers in frenzy as £18 Disney trainers reduced to just £3

A pair of shoes in Primark has sparked a frenzy - after its price was slashed from £18 to just three quid .
Primark opened its biggest store on Earth right here in the centre of Birmingham last year .
The world 's biggest Primark opened its doors in April , and has gone from strength to strength .
Now , Primark customers are looking to acquire a pair of Disney-style trainers , with the shows costing just £3 .
The pale pink shoes are emblazoned with ‘ Minnie Mouse ’ written in black font , alongside a black and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wearing a sparkling silver bow .
The must-have trainers have been shared online in bargains groups and are now so in demand they ’ re being sold on eBay , reports the Mirror Online , our sister title .
While many shoppers have been racing to their local stores to get their hands on the £3 trainers , others have headed to eBay , where prices range from £5 to £20 .
Some sellers have stocked up on the shoes and are offering the pale pink trainers in a range of sizes for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was selling them before they went on sale .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Luke Matthews, James Rodger)

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A pair of shoes in Primark has sparked a frenzy - after its price was slashed from £18 to just three quid.
Primark opened its biggest store on Earth right here in the centre of Birmingham last year.
The world's biggest Primark opened its doors in April, and has gone from strength to strength.
Now, Primark customers are looking to acquire a pair of Disney-style trainers, with the shows costing just £3.
(Image: eBay)
The pale pink shoes are emblazoned with ‘Minnie Mouse’ written in black font, alongside a black and white picture of the popular Disney character wearing a sparkling silver bow.
The must-have trainers have been shared online in bargains groups and are now so in demand they’re being sold on eBay, reports the Mirror Online, our sister title.
While many shoppers have been racing to their local stores to get their hands on the £3 trainers, others have headed to eBay, where prices range from £5 to £20.
Some sellers have stocked up on the shoes and are offering the pale pink trainers in a range of sizes for £20, which is more than Primark was selling them before they went on sale.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Wolverhampton honeymoon coronavirus couple finally released from UK quarantine

Wolverhampton honeymooner Alan Steele has finally been released from UK quarantine after being diagnosed with coronavirus .
Mr Steele , who was a passenger on the virus-stricken cruise liner Diamond Princess , was reunited with his wife Wendy after both tested negative for the condition .
They flew home from Japan , where the ship is moored , before landing at Boscombe Down Ministry of Defence base , near Salisbury in Wiltshire .
Mr Steele spent 14 days at Arrowe Park hospital on the Wirral , after returning home from the Far East .
The lorry driver , who hails @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , tested positive for coronavirus on the ship on February 6 .
He was eventually released from hospital on February 19 , and they flew back to the UK on February 22 , where they have spent time in quarantine ever since .
On social media today , Mr Steele issued an update to pals , writing : “ Just been informed that the last test was negative so get freed tomorrow night whooopy.
” More than 70 British nationals quarantined on the Diamond Princess left the cruise last month .
Since being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the port of Yokohama , a total of 634 passengers and crew have been infected , accounting for more than half of all the confirmed coronavirus cases outside of China .
If they do not have symptoms , passengers will be given health advice and told to self-isolate at home for 14 days but , if they have symptoms , they will be taken to hospital for testing .

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Wolverhampton honeymooner Alan Steele has finally been released from UK quarantine after being diagnosed with coronavirus.
Mr Steele, who was a passenger on the virus-stricken cruise liner Diamond Princess, was reunited with his wife Wendy after both tested negative for the condition.
They flew home from Japan, where the ship is moored, before landing at Boscombe Down Ministry of Defence base, near Salisbury in Wiltshire.
Mr Steele spent 14 days at Arrowe Park hospital on the Wirral, after returning home from the Far East.
The lorry driver, who hails from Tettenhall, in the Black Country, tested positive for coronavirus on the ship on February 6.
(Image: Facebook)
He was eventually released from hospital on February 19, and they flew back to the UK on February 22, where they have spent time in quarantine ever since.
On social media today, Mr Steele issued an update to pals, writing: “Just been informed that the last test was negative so get freed tomorrow night whooopy.”
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More than 70 British nationals quarantined on the Diamond Princess left the cruise last month.
Since being kept on board the cruise liner in the port of Yokohama, a total of 634 passengers and crew have been infected, accounting for more than half of all the confirmed coronavirus cases outside of China.
If they do not have symptoms, passengers will be given health advice and told to self-isolate at home for 14 days but, if they have symptoms, they will be taken to hospital for testing.


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Man killed in Netherton hit-and-run crash as he waited for a bus named as Stanley Shelton

A man has been charged with drink-driving after an 83-year-old was killed in an alleged hit-and-run crash as he waited @ @ @ @ @ Shelton was fatally injured in Simms Lane on Saturday morning , March 7 .
The @ @ @ @ @ was pronounced dead at the scene .
Reece Dunkley , of Kilburn Place , Netherton @ @ @ @ @ death by dangerous driving , being at the wheel while disqualified , and drink driving @ @ @ @ @ charged with failing to stop and report a collision and having no insurance .
The @ @ @ @ @ to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates ' Court today , Monday , March 9 .
Det @ @ @ @ @ West Midlands Police 's serious collision investigation unit , said : “ My thoughts go @ @ @ @ @ the man who tragically lost his life and specialist officers will now be supporting them @ @ @ @ @ ”

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A man has been charged with drink-driving after an 83-year-old was killed in an alleged hit-and-run crash as he waited for a bus.
Stanley Shelton was fatally injured in Simms Lane on Saturday morning, March 7.
The 83-year-old suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Reece Dunkley, of Kilburn Place, Netherton, is accused of causing death by dangerous driving, being at the wheel while disqualified, and drink driving.
He has also been charged with failing to stop and report a collision and having no insurance.
The 28-year-old was remanded in custody to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court today, Monday, March 9.
Det Sgt Paul Hughes, from West Midlands Police's serious collision investigation unit, said: “My thoughts go out to the family of the man who tragically lost his life and specialist officers will now be supporting them at this difficult time.”


birminghammail--2020-03-09--Cheltenham Festival coronavirus update as cases confirmed in town

Cheltenham Festival bosses have issued a new update over the spread of coronavirus as the horse racing extravaganza gets ready to begin .
The 2020 festival , taking place in Cheltenham , in Gloucestershire , will see thousands attend this week .
But for bosses it is very much `` business as usual '' - with the event going ahead as planned .
A Cheltenham Racecourse spokesman said : “ We look forward to staging The Festival presented by Magners at Cheltenham next week .
We welcome the government 's guidance that the business of the country should continue as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latest public health advice .
`` We have increased the number of wash basins and toilet facilities on site , we will make hand sanitiser readily available and increase the number of paper towels for hand drying .
`` We have also increased staff numbers to ensure that soap and drying facilities are constantly available . ''
The spokesman for Cheltenham Racecourse continued : `` At Cheltenham Racecourse the safety and welfare of racegoers and participants is paramount .
`` As part of our responsibilities towards racegoers and participants , we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pre-event communication advising all customers to follow official government public health advice , which can be found here • Additional staff will operate in all toilet areas to ensure that soap and drying facilities are constantly available • Antibacterial hand gel will be made available and additional dedicated hand sanitizer locations can be found here .
• Posters around the racecourse as a reminder of public health advice , which includes washing your hands regularly with soap and hot water , or using antibacterial gel .
`` Cheltenham Racecourse will continue to follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WHO ) and Public Health England , as well as that of local government . ''

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Cheltenham Festival bosses have issued a new update over the spread of coronavirus as the horse racing extravaganza gets ready to begin.
The 2020 festival, taking place in Cheltenham, in Gloucestershire, will see thousands attend this week.
But for bosses it is very much "business as usual" - with the event going ahead as planned.
A Cheltenham Racecourse spokesman said: “We look forward to staging The Festival presented by Magners at Cheltenham next week. We welcome the government's guidance that the business of the country should continue as usual, while ensuring we adhere to the latest public health advice.
"We have increased the number of wash basins and toilet facilities on site, we will make hand sanitiser readily available and increase the number of paper towels for hand drying.
"We have also increased staff numbers to ensure that soap and drying facilities are constantly available."
The spokesman for Cheltenham Racecourse continued: "At Cheltenham Racecourse the safety and welfare of racegoers and participants is paramount.
"As part of our responsibilities towards racegoers and participants, we have put the following in place:
Pre-event communication advising all customers to follow official government public health advice, which can be found here
Additional toilets and handwashing facilities
Additional staff will operate in all toilet areas to ensure that soap and drying facilities are constantly available
Antibacterial hand gel will be made available and additional dedicated hand sanitizer locations can be found here .
Posters around the racecourse as a reminder of public health advice, which includes washing your hands regularly with soap and hot water, or using antibacterial gel.
"Cheltenham Racecourse will continue to follow advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Public Health England, as well as that of local government."


birminghammail--2020-03-09--'Relentless' - Championship boss wades into West Brom and Leeds United debate

Danny Cowley believes Leeds United are the best team in the Championship .
Cowley ’ s Huddersfield Town side were beaten 2-0 at Elland Road , a result which combined with West Brom ’ s draw at Swansea put Marcelo Bielsa ’ s men back on top of the table .
Speaking afterwards the Terriers boss declared Leeds have the edge over everyone else in the league .
“ Leeds play such an aggressive defensive system , a man-to-man system ... they just suffocate you , they ’ re all over you in the one-v-one moments .
“ Probably we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as we would have liked and then I thought we had to hang onto Leeds in the second half .
“ We saw probably the best team in the league playing at the top of their game and I felt they were relentless at times .
“ I ’ ve had 13 years as a football manager and I ’ ve managed against London Apsa and – I don ’ t mean to be disrespectful of these teams – and Barkingside and things like this – and I ’ ve also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Everton twice and Burnley , and that was right up there in terms of an opponent ’ s performance .
“ Sometimes it ’ s hard , particularly for us because they ’ re our local rivals and our supporters are proud people and we ’ re a proud football club , but sometimes you have to credit the opponent and I thought they were outstanding today.
” Cowley has also seen his side lose 4-2 to the Baggies , in just his second game in charge .
The Terriers host Albion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – when West Brom will be hoping to restate their own case .

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Danny Cowley believes Leeds United are the best team in the Championship.
Last weekend Cowley’s Huddersfield Town side were beaten 2-0 at Elland Road, a result which combined with West Brom ’s draw at Swansea put Marcelo Bielsa’s men back on top of the table.
Speaking afterwards the Terriers boss declared Leeds have the edge over everyone else in the league.
“Leeds play such an aggressive defensive system, a man-to-man system...they just suffocate you, they’re all over you in the one-v-one moments.
“Probably we didn’t play out the pressure as well as we would have liked and then I thought we had to hang onto Leeds in the second half.
“We saw probably the best team in the league playing at the top of their game and I felt they were relentless at times.
“I’ve had 13 years as a football manager and I’ve managed against London Apsa and – I don’t mean to be disrespectful of these teams – and Barkingside and things like this – and I’ve also had the pleasure of managing against Arsenal and Everton twice and Burnley, and that was right up there in terms of an opponent’s performance.
“Sometimes it’s hard, particularly for us because they’re our local rivals and our supporters are proud people and we’re a proud football club, but sometimes you have to credit the opponent and I thought they were outstanding today.”
Cowley has also seen his side lose 4-2 to the Baggies, in just his second game in charge.
The Terriers host Albion in the penultimate game of the season – when West Brom will be hoping to restate their own case.
However, the end of the season is shrouded in considerable doubt following the suspension of all elite level football due to the coronavirus pandemic.