birminghammail--2020-04-26--Supermarkets to add 300,000 more delivery slots

British supermarkets are to increase the number of delivery slots in a bid to try and keep up with demand during lockdown .
The retailers had 2.1million delivery slots at the start of the coronavirus pandemic and the number is now set to rise to almost three million due to high demand from people isolating at home .
Environment Secretary George Eustice confirmed the number of slots will increase to 2.9million but told the Government press briefing today ( April 26 ) it will still `` not be enough to meet all of the demand '' .
Mr Eustice said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of reduced staff due to some self isolating during the pandemic but those levels were now getting better .
He added : `` The food supply chain has also seen a significant reduction in staff absence over recent weeks , as staff who had been self-isolating through suspected coronavirus have returned to work .
`` Absence levels are down from a peak of typically 20 % in food businesses three weeks ago , to less than 10 % at the end of last week , and , in some cases , individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % .
Although the international food chain is continuing to `` work well '' , Mr Eustice said he expects a need to recruit staff in the UK to harvest crops at the start of summer .
`` We 're also acutely aware that we 're about to start the British season in fresh produce , in soft fruits and salads , '' Mr Eustice told the briefing .
`` We estimate that probably only about a third of the migrant labour that would normally come to the UK is here , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are working with industry to identify an approach that will encourage those millions of furloughed workers in some cases to consider taking a second job , helping get the harvest in in June . ''
He added : `` It 's not an issue at the moment since the harvest has barely begun , but we do anticipate that there will be a need to recruit staff for those sectors in the month of June . ''
Professor Stephen Powis , national medical director of NHS England , said the benefit of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the stabilisation of the number of new cases - including the Midlands .
He told the conference : `` You can see we now have a very definite trend of a reduced number of people in hospitals - that is most marked in London .
`` But there is the beginnings of that in the Midlands and other areas of the UK . ''

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British supermarkets are to increase the number of delivery slots in a bid to try and keep up with demand during lockdown.
The retailers had 2.1million delivery slots at the start of the coronavirus pandemic and the number is now set to rise to almost three million due to high demand from people isolating at home.
Environment Secretary George Eustice confirmed the number of slots will increase to 2.9million but told the Government press briefing today (April 26) it will still "not be enough to meet all of the demand".
Mr Eustice said supermarkets had been coping with a significant number of reduced staff due to some self isolating during the pandemic but those levels were now getting better.
He added: "The food supply chain has also seen a significant reduction in staff absence over recent weeks, as staff who had been self-isolating through suspected coronavirus have returned to work.
"Absence levels are down from a peak of typically 20% in food businesses three weeks ago, to less than 10% at the end of last week, and, in some cases, individual companies reporting absences as low as 6%.
(Image: Premier Foods/PA Wire)
Although the international food chain is continuing to "work well", Mr Eustice said he expects a need to recruit staff in the UK to harvest crops at the start of summer.
"We're also acutely aware that we're about to start the British season in fresh produce, in soft fruits and salads," Mr Eustice told the briefing.
"We estimate that probably only about a third of the migrant labour that would normally come to the UK is here, and was probably here before lockdown.
"We are working with industry to identify an approach that will encourage those millions of furloughed workers in some cases to consider taking a second job, helping get the harvest in in June."
He added: "It's not an issue at the moment since the harvest has barely begun, but we do anticipate that there will be a need to recruit staff for those sectors in the month of June."
Professor Stephen Powis, national medical director of NHS England, said the benefit of social distancing was beginning to be felt in the stabilisation of the number of new cases - including the Midlands.
He told the conference: "You can see we now have a very definite trend of a reduced number of people in hospitals - that is most marked in London.
"But there is the beginnings of that in the Midlands and other areas of the UK."


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Police confirm double stabbing at Marston Green Park

A schoolboy is fighting for his life in hospital after a vicious double stabbing at a city park .
The 16-year-old has been left in a critical condition after he was knifed near Chapelhouse Road , Solihull this afternoon , Sunday , April 26 .
Another teen , aged 19 , was also stabbed and is in hospital in a stable condition .
A boy aged 14 has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder .
He remains in police custody for questioning .
Police cordoned off nearby Marston Green Park after the incident .
Any witnesses or anyone with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A statement from West Midlands Police read : `` We were called to reports that two people had been stabbed on Chapelhouse Road , Solihull at about 2.40pm today ( Sunday ) .
`` Two people have been taken to hospital .
`` A 16-year-old boy remains in a critical condition while a 19-year-old man is described as stable .
`` A 14-year-old boy , was arrested nearby on suspicion of attempted murder and taken into police custody for questioning .
`` Enquiries are continuing and anyone who has any information about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
Please quote log 2087 26/4 . ''

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A schoolboy is fighting for his life in hospital after a vicious double stabbing at a city park.
The 16-year-old has been left in a critical condition after he was knifed near Chapelhouse Road, Solihull this afternoon, Sunday, April 26.
Another teen, aged 19, was also stabbed and is in hospital in a stable condition.
A boy aged 14 has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He remains in police custody for questioning.
Police cordoned off nearby Marston Green Park after the incident.
Any witnesses or anyone with information is urged to contact police.
A statement from West Midlands Police read: "We were called to reports that two people had been stabbed on Chapelhouse Road, Solihull at about 2.40pm today (Sunday).
"Two people have been taken to hospital.
"A 16-year-old boy remains in a critical condition while a 19-year-old man is described as stable.
"A 14-year-old boy, was arrested nearby on suspicion of attempted murder and taken into police custody for questioning.
"Enquiries are continuing and anyone who has any information about the incident is asked to contact us via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote log 2087 26/4."


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Nuno favourite linked with shock transfer away from Wolves

Leander Dendoncker is the latest Wolverhampton Wanderers player to crop up on Lazio ’ s radar , according to reports @ @ @ @ @ who could confirm Champions League qualification once the season resumes , are looking to add @ @ @ @ @ the next transfer window .
A recent report linked Jonny Castro Otto to Lazio , @ @ @ @ @ target too .
Gazzetta dello Sport ( via Sport Witness ) claims Dendoncker would be @ @ @ @ @ himself in Lazio ’ s midfield if he made the move .
However , any @ @ @ @ @ likely to receive support from Nuno Espirito Santo .
The Wolves boss is a huge @ @ @ @ @ ’ s featured in 46 of the club ’ s 48 matches this season .
@ @ @ @ @ Wolves for £12million from Anderlecht last summer after a successful loan spell .

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Leander Dendoncker is the latest Wolverhampton Wanderers player to crop up on Lazio’s radar, according to reports.
The Italian club, who could confirm Champions League qualification once the season resumes, are looking to add depth to their squad in the next transfer window.
A recent report linked Jonny Castro Otto to Lazio, and Dendoncker is supposedly a target too.
Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness) claims Dendoncker would be given the chance to establish himself in Lazio’s midfield if he made the move.
However, any such move isn’t likely to receive support from Nuno Espirito Santo. The Wolves boss is a huge fan of Dendoncker and he’s featured in 46 of the club’s 48 matches this season.
Dendoncker, 25, joined Wolves for £12million from Anderlecht last summer after a successful loan spell.


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Car that careered into lampost and flipped was being pursued by police

A car that ploughed into a lamppost and flipped over in Walsall was being pursued by police , it has been revealed Staffordshire Police said the black Vauxhall Astra had failed to stop for officers in the Cannock area before crashing in Pelsall Road at around 1am on Sunday , April 26 .
The driver ran from the vehicle but was detained close by .
A woman also had to be rescued from the wrecked motor .
They were both taken to hospital for further treatment , a spokesman for West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said .
A spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ARV was involved in a pursuit of a vehicle last night that failed to stop for them in the Cannock area .
`` The driver crashed trying to evade officers and ran from the vehicle .
He didn ’ t get very far though and was detained close by .
He was arrested and sustained no injury . ''
A spokesman for the fire service added : `` We were called to Pelsall Road , close to the junction of High Street , to reports a car in collision with a lamppost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side .
`` One patient , a man , had self-extricate themselves before arrival .
Another , a woman was released by police .
`` They were checked over by paramedics and taken to hospital . ''

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A car that ploughed into a lamppost and flipped over in Walsall was being pursued by police, it has been revealed
Staffordshire Police said the black Vauxhall Astra had failed to stop for officers in the Cannock area before crashing in Pelsall Road at around 1am on Sunday, April 26.
The driver ran from the vehicle but was detained close by. A woman also had to be rescued from the wrecked motor.
They were both taken to hospital for further treatment, a spokesman for West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service said.
A spokesman for the force said: "Shift 1 ARV was involved in a pursuit of a vehicle last night that failed to stop for them in the Cannock area.
"The driver crashed trying to evade officers and ran from the vehicle. He didn’t get very far though and was detained close by. He was arrested and sustained no injury."
(Image: Aldridge Fire)
A spokesman for the fire service added: "We were called to Pelsall Road, close to the junction of High Street, to reports a car in collision with a lamppost which had come to rest on its side.
"One patient, a man, had self-extricate themselves before arrival. Another, a woman was released by police.
"They were checked over by paramedics and taken to hospital."


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Huge queues as key workers descend on new coronavirus testing centre

Huge queues of cars have been lining up waiting to get into a coronavirus testing centre in Smethwick today .
Drivers sat in 300 yards long line waiting to get into the NHS Staff Test Centre in an industrial area in Heath Street near to Sandwell 's unfinished Midland Metropolitan hospital .
The rush of people wanting to get tested follows last week 's announcement that non NHS key workers could now apply to be tested .
Anyone wishing to get a test has to apply online for an appointment before attending a testing site .
When BirminghamLive visited the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was nobody there save for three members of staff in hi-vis jackets and face masks at the gates .
Today , the picture could not have been more different .
A massive queue of cars stretched for more than 300 yards as if many had arrived at once .
Who can get tested - and how The Government aims to have 50 testing sites across the regions by the end of the month .
For the latest guidance and booking an appointment , visit the Government website here Testing capacity was increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has still not been enough to meet demand with bookings reopening at 8am each day .
At least 10 million key workers and fellow householders are eligible for coronavirus tests should they have symptoms of the illness - testing is recommended within three days to be most effective .
Key workers on the government 's list includes all NHS and social care staff from doctors , nurses , midwives , paramedics , social workers and carers to support staff and supply chain workers .
Teachers , firefighters , local and national government staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drivers are also included among those listed on the full list of key workers Health Secretary Matt Hancock has pledged to increase capacity to 100,000 coronavirus tests a day by the end of next week .
Toby Lewis , chief executive of The Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust , today tweeted that he was `` proud that @ balfourbeatty @ Deloitte @ SWBHnhs @ SWBCCG # standtogether to create the Test Centre for non-NHS key workers at Midland Metropolitan University Hospital ( Birmingham-smethwick ) . ''
He added : `` 650 folk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me ... '' Copying in John Spellar , Labour MP for Warley in the Black Country , and regional elected West Midlands Mayor Andy Street , Mr Lewis added two significant hashtags in the battle against the Covid-19 coronanvirus pandemic .
They were # nevertoolate and # fightback On Monday , Mr Lewis said : “ Our Trust has been creating one of the biggest testing NHS bodies over the last three weeks and we are thrilled to be launching this service for transport workers , GPs , refuge workers , social workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of UK coronavirus deaths passed the 2,000 mark yesterday .
What is the centre offering ?
PCR swab tests - which are used to identify if you currently have the virus - for critical key workers , starting with NHS front line staff .
This means those who test negative for coronavirus can return to work as soon as possible , and those who test positive are able to recover .
The Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital testing centre is being operated in partnership with Serco , and is offering self-administered tests .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few days .
The Government has been criticised for failing to provide enough testing for NHS staff and other key workers , with Germany managing to carry out far more testing than the UK .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab today said the lockdown would not be lifted early as 'this is the new normal ' .
“ We are at a delicate and dangerous stage , ” he told Sky News ’ s Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme .
`` We need to make sure that the next steps are sure-footed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cautiously and we are sticking to the scientific advice with the social-distancing measures at this time , whilst doing all the homework to make sure that we are prepared in due course for the next phase . ''

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Huge queues of cars have been lining up waiting to get into a coronavirus testing centre in Smethwick today.
Drivers sat in 300 yards long line waiting to get into the NHS Staff Test Centre in an industrial area in Heath Street near to Sandwell's unfinished Midland Metropolitan hospital.
The rush of people wanting to get tested follows last week's announcement that non NHS key workers could now apply to be tested.
Anyone wishing to get a test has to apply online for an appointment before attending a testing site.
(Image: BirminghamLive)
When BirminghamLive visited the testing site on Monday, April 20 there was nobody there save for three members of staff in hi-vis jackets and face masks at the gates.
Today, the picture could not have been more different.
A massive queue of cars stretched for more than 300 yards as if many had arrived at once.
Who can get tested - and how
The Government aims to have 50 testing sites across the regions by the end of the month.
For the latest guidance and booking an appointment, visit the Government website here
Testing capacity was increased from 40,000 to 51,000 on Thursday but has still not been enough to meet demand with bookings reopening at 8am each day.
At least 10 million key workers and fellow householders are eligible for coronavirus tests should they have symptoms of the illness - testing is recommended within three days to be most effective.
Key workers on the government's list includes all NHS and social care staff from doctors, nurses, midwives, paramedics, social workers and carers to support staff and supply chain workers.
Teachers, firefighters, local and national government staff, supermarket workers, police and delivery drivers are also included among those listed on the full list of key workers
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has pledged to increase capacity to 100,000 coronavirus tests a day by the end of next week.
(Image: BirminghamLive)
Toby Lewis, chief executive of The Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, today tweeted that he was "proud that @balfourbeatty @Deloitte @SWBHnhs @SWBCCG #standtogether to create the Test Centre for non-NHS key workers at Midland Metropolitan University Hospital (Birmingham-smethwick)."
He added: "650 folk today & same tomorrow, they tell me..."
Copying in John Spellar, Labour MP for Warley in the Black Country, and regional elected West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, Mr Lewis added two significant hashtags in the battle against the Covid-19 coronanvirus pandemic.
They were #nevertoolate and #fightback
(Image: BirminghamLive)
On Monday, Mr Lewis said: “Our Trust has been creating one of the biggest testing NHS bodies over the last three weeks and we are thrilled to be launching this service for transport workers, GPs, refuge workers, social workers and emergency service staff."
The number of UK coronavirus deaths passed the 2,000 mark yesterday.
What is the centre offering?
PCR swab tests - which are used to identify if you currently have the virus - for critical key workers, starting with NHS front line staff.
This means those who test negative for coronavirus can return to work as soon as possible, and those who test positive are able to recover.
The Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital testing centre is being operated in partnership with Serco, and is offering self-administered tests.
Those tested will receive their results within a few days.
(Image: BirminghamLive)
Other testing centres include Edgbaston cricket ground.
The Government has been criticised for failing to provide enough testing for NHS staff and other key workers, with Germany managing to carry out far more testing than the UK.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab today said the lockdown would not be lifted early as 'this is the new normal'.
“We are at a delicate and dangerous stage,” he told Sky News’s Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme.
"We need to make sure that the next steps are sure-footed, which is why we are proceeding very cautiously and we are sticking to the scientific advice with the social-distancing measures at this time, whilst doing all the homework to make sure that we are prepared in due course for the next phase."


birminghammail--2020-04-26--The Masked Singer makes a return tonight in a lockdown special

Fans of hit singing contest The Masked Singer will get their fix tonight as it returns for a lockdown special with host Joel Dommett .
The show sees celebrities performing in elaborate disguises and has been a massive draw for ITV .
Social-distancing restrictions means the competitors will perform in their own homes dialling in on FaceTime .
The show will air on ITV2 at 10pm as part of Joel 's Home Alone broadcast and will feature Jonathan Ross and Davina McCall returning as judges tasked with guessing who the famous singers are .
The first singer to take part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggests , the celeb will be wearing a giant teddy bear on their head .
The singer 's voice is also obscured .
Originating in South Korea , it was broadcast under the name King of the Mask Singer becoming a world-wide hit .
A UK edition was broadcast in January after ITV bought rights .
The winner in that series after eight rounds was former Girls Aloud star Nicola Roberts who was unmasked as Queen Bee and crowned the overall winner .
ITV have since announced that the show will return for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unknown if Rita Ora will reprise her role as a judge despite being asked on KISS FM if she was returning .
It definitely ... '' she began before stopping .
`` I can not confirm or deny , but surely .
What did I just do ?
What ? ''
The special lockdown edition of the show will air tonight on ITV2 at 10pm .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Lucy Needham, Cathrina Hulse-BM)

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Fans of hit singing contest The Masked Singer will get their fix tonight as it returns for a lockdown special with host Joel Dommett.
The show sees celebrities performing in elaborate disguises and has been a massive draw for ITV.
Social-distancing restrictions means the competitors will perform in their own homes dialling in on FaceTime.
The show will air on ITV2 at 10pm as part of Joel's Home Alone broadcast and will feature Jonathan Ross and Davina McCall returning as judges tasked with guessing who the famous singers are.
The first singer to take part is Teddy Bear and as the name suggests, the celeb will be wearing a giant teddy bear on their head.
The singer's voice is also obscured.
Originating in South Korea, it was broadcast under the name King of the Mask Singer becoming a world-wide hit.
A UK edition was broadcast in January after ITV bought rights.
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The winner in that series after eight rounds was former Girls Aloud star Nicola Roberts who was unmasked as Queen Bee and crowned the overall winner.
ITV have since announced that the show will return for a second series.
It's still unknown if Rita Ora will reprise her role as a judge despite being asked on KISS FM if she was returning.
It definitely..." she began before stopping.
"I cannot confirm or deny, but surely. What did I just do? What?"
The special lockdown edition of the show will air tonight on ITV2 at 10pm.


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Greggs to reopen a number of shops in 'trial' after coronavirus forced closures

Greggs is looking to trial the opening of a small number of stores before reopening all its 2,050 branches across the country .
Fans of its pastries including the steak bake and vegan sausage roll were dismayed when the chain closed temporarily a month ago in a bid to protect its staff and customers from the spread of coronavirus .
Although Government rules allows restaurants and cafes to still operate a takeaway service , many chains including McDonald 's and Burger King and KFC opted to shut their doors .
Today , Greggs said it was looking at ways to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sun .
A spokesperson told the newspaper : `` We want to play our part in getting the nation back up and running again so we are planning to conduct a limited trial with volunteers to explore how we can reopen our shops with new measures in place that keep our colleagues and customers as safe as we can when we re-open at scale . ''
No further details are available including how many branches could reopen or which branches will open first .
It 's also unclear what services will be offered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social distancing policy in stores which will allow customers to collect food to takeaway .
Another may see the popular retailer team up with delivery services , such as Just Eat or Deliveroo .
Despite Government orders for all non-essential shops to temporarily close , restaurants and cafes are still allowed to operate a takeaway service .
But many chains found that they could n't confidently carry out business safely whilst also abiding by social distancing rules , such as KFC and Burger King .
Meanwhile a branch of KFC in Birmingham is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 pandemic .
The KFC restaurant in Tyburn is delivering chicken and customers can order KFC 's iconic menu items such as Bargain Buckets , Zinger Tower Meals , or simple three-pieces .
Despite the lockdown , it has re-opened a string of UK branches across the country .
You can order via Just Eat although the apps do charge a delivery fee .

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Greggs is looking to trial the opening of a small number of stores before reopening all its 2,050 branches across the country.
Fans of its pastries including the steak bake and vegan sausage roll were dismayed when the chain closed temporarily a month ago in a bid to protect its staff and customers from the spread of coronavirus.
Although Government rules allows restaurants and cafes to still operate a takeaway service, many chains including McDonald's and Burger King and KFC opted to shut their doors.
Today, Greggs said it was looking at ways to reopen, according to reports in The Sun.
A spokesperson told the newspaper: "We want to play our part in getting the nation back up and running again so we are planning to conduct a limited trial with volunteers to explore how we can reopen our shops with new measures in place that keep our colleagues and customers as safe as we can when we re-open at scale."
No further details are available including how many branches could reopen or which branches will open first.
It's also unclear what services will be offered.
One option is to implement a social distancing policy in stores which will allow customers to collect food to takeaway.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Another may see the popular retailer team up with delivery services, such as Just Eat or Deliveroo.
Despite Government orders for all non-essential shops to temporarily close, restaurants and cafes are still allowed to operate a takeaway service.
But many chains found that they couldn't confidently carry out business safely whilst also abiding by social distancing rules, such as KFC and Burger King.
Meanwhile a branch of KFC in Birmingham is back open and serving customers amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
The KFC restaurant in Tyburn is delivering chicken and customers can order KFC's iconic menu items such as Bargain Buckets, Zinger Tower Meals, or simple three-pieces.
Despite the lockdown, it has re-opened a string of UK branches across the country.
You can order via Just Eat although the apps do charge a delivery fee.


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Aston Villa's John Terry makes managerial confession

Assistant head coach John Terry admits had a managerial job came up before Aston Villa he would have taken it .
Terry hung up his boots after turning down Spartak Moscow in September 2018 and , a month later , joined Dean Smith as his No.2 .
The Chelsea legend has made no secret of wanting to become a top-class manager one day but , as it stands , is more than happy at Aston Villa .
Terry is given a free reign by Smith to work closely with the players on a day-to-day basis and is immensely popular amongst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sat at the back analysing Smith 's pre-match press conferences ahead of taking the plunge into becoming a senior figure .
During a chat with The Lockdown Tactics , Terry said : `` If a job had come up and it was the right job straight away , 100 per cent I would have taken it .
`` I would have backed myself to go in and deliver what I believe is the right way to approach it and to set up a team .
( Villa ) has enabled me to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ background as well .
The manager is the manager . ''
Terry revealed some frank discussions Smith had with senior figures at Villa during the club 's promotion year .
`` We had some big characters in that year we got promoted , '' he explained .
`` Whelo and Mile ( Jedinak ) and people like that in the team , Micah Richards .
`` The gaffer had to make some big decisions with some big players and I was sitting there thinking , 'Yeah , I 'm wondering where he 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) ' .
`` He 'd sit there and just be totally honest with the lads , saying , 'Listen , your game time is going to be limited but you 've still got a big part to play in this group ' .
Which they were .
`` They led by example every day and were superb for us , you know .
Without them older players and the way the manager dealt with them I 'm not sure we would have got promoted . ''
Terry sat down with Kris Boyd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Snodgrass during The Lockdown Tactics podcast .
During the hour-long chat , Terry gave 'Snoddy ' a ribbing about their days playing head tennis at Bodymoor Heath .
The hilarious transcript is below ... JT : You asked me to get you a head tennis trophy .
Snoddy : Listen , [ Terry ] changed his indoor trainers three times every time I used to spank him at head tennis !
Snoddy : Just tell them , what about the games we used to have and what time did we used to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
JT : Obviously , me and Snods were down at Villa .
I was in a hotel and Snods had an apartment as well away from our families .
We used to arrive at the training ground about 8/8.30am and we 'd be there at 6pm/7pm/8pm playing this head tennis tournament .
We bought like a little net and had the bins up .
We put all the tape around the outside .
Honestly , how many arguments did we have , it was in , it was out ?
!
Snoddy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had the full team playing a head tennis tournament .
They had to stop it because it was getting beyond belief .
Everyone was giving it like , 'Ref ! '
.
The boys were giving it the John McEnroe !
JT : I was undefeated against Snods and Whelo !
I have to say Snods was the most-competitive player I 've met in my whole career .
Just an absolute winner , you know .
We used to start training at 10.30am and we 'd be out at 10am doing two-touch and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of banter .
That 's the levels and that 's why he 's playing at the top .

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Assistant head coach John Terry admits had a managerial job came up before Aston Villa he would have taken it.
Terry hung up his boots after turning down Spartak Moscow in September 2018 and, a month later, joined Dean Smith as his No.2.
The Chelsea legend has made no secret of wanting to become a top-class manager one day but, as it stands, is more than happy at Aston Villa.
Terry is given a free reign by Smith to work closely with the players on a day-to-day basis and is immensely popular amongst the group.
The assistant has even sat at the back analysing Smith's pre-match press conferences ahead of taking the plunge into becoming a senior figure.
During a chat with The Lockdown Tactics, Terry said: "If a job had come up and it was the right job straight away, 100 per cent I would have taken it.
"I would have backed myself to go in and deliver what I believe is the right way to approach it and to set up a team. (Villa) has enabled me to go in and do that but in the background as well. The manager is the manager."
Terry revealed some frank discussions Smith had with senior figures at Villa during the club's promotion year.
"We had some big characters in that year we got promoted," he explained. "Whelo and Mile (Jedinak) and people like that in the team, Micah Richards.
"The gaffer had to make some big decisions with some big players and I was sitting there thinking, 'Yeah, I'm wondering where he's going to go with this (decision)'.
"He'd sit there and just be totally honest with the lads, saying, 'Listen, your game time is going to be limited but you've still got a big part to play in this group'. Which they were.
"They led by example every day and were superb for us, you know. Without them older players and the way the manager dealt with them I'm not sure we would have got promoted."
Terry sat down with Kris Boyd and former Villa team-mate and joker Robert Snodgrass during The Lockdown Tactics podcast.
During the hour-long chat, Terry gave 'Snoddy' a ribbing about their days playing head tennis at Bodymoor Heath. The hilarious transcript is below...
JT: You asked me to get you a head tennis trophy.
Snoddy: Listen, [Terry] changed his indoor trainers three times every time I used to spank him at head tennis!
JT: Absolute lies!
Snoddy: Just tell them, what about the games we used to have and what time did we used to leave the training ground, tell the boys!
JT: Obviously, me and Snods were down at Villa. I was in a hotel and Snods had an apartment as well away from our families. We used to arrive at the training ground about 8/8.30am and we'd be there at 6pm/7pm/8pm playing this head tennis tournament. We bought like a little net and had the bins up. We put all the tape around the outside. Honestly, how many arguments did we have, it was in, it was out?!
Snoddy: I'm not kidding, we had the full team playing a head tennis tournament. They had to stop it because it was getting beyond belief. Everyone was giving it like, 'Ref!'. The boys were giving it the John McEnroe!
JT: I was undefeated against Snods and Whelo! I have to say Snods was the most-competitive player I've met in my whole career. Just an absolute winner, you know. We used to start training at 10.30am and we'd be out at 10am doing two-touch and testing each other and having a bit of banter. That's the levels and that's why he's playing at the top.


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Angler fined for travelling 100 miles for fishing trip amid lockdown

Police have fined a Wolverhampton angler who travelled 110 miles for a fishing trip amid the coronavirus lockdown .
Cambridge Police issued the fixed-penalty notice to the Covid-19 flouter after they were spotted at a lake at Mepal Outdoor Centre on Saturday , April 25 .
Two others – from Lowestoft , Northants – were also slapped with a fine at the same time , a spokesman for the force said .
The spokesman added : `` We ’ ve issued 3 penalty notices to people from Lowestoft , Northants and Wolverhampton for fishing at the Lake at the old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government guidance and also DEFRA , people should not be leaving their houses in order to go fishing recreationally . ''
The news comes on the same day dozens of motorists flocked to a Staffordshire beauty spot – despite pleas not to drive there .
In the clip , which can be watched below , a variety of cars can be seen parked up at Marquis Drive outside Cannock Chase and was met with criticism online .
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service urged residents to 'stay away ' after 150 deliberate fires .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are : 1 ) shopping for basic necessities , as infrequently as possible ; 2 ) one form of exercise a day - for example a run , walk , or cycle - alone or with members of your household ; 3 ) any medical need , to provide care or to help a vulnerable person ; and 4 ) travelling to and from work , but only where this is absolutely necessary and can not be done from home .

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Police have fined a Wolverhampton angler who travelled 110 miles for a fishing trip amid the coronavirus lockdown.
Cambridge Police issued the fixed-penalty notice to the Covid-19 flouter after they were spotted at a lake at Mepal Outdoor Centre on Saturday, April 25.
Two others – from Lowestoft, Northants – were also slapped with a fine at the same time, a spokesman for the force said.
The spokesman added: "We’ve issued 3 penalty notices to people from Lowestoft, Northants and Wolverhampton for fishing at the Lake at the old Mepal Outdoor centre
"As per the Government guidance and also DEFRA, people should not be leaving their houses in order to go fishing recreationally."
The news comes on the same day dozens of motorists flocked to a Staffordshire beauty spot – despite pleas not to drive there.
In the clip, which can be watched below , a variety of cars can be seen parked up at Marquis Drive outside Cannock Chase and was met with criticism online.
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service urged residents to 'stay away' after 150 deliberate fires.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The only reasons anyone can go out are:
1) shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible;
2) one form of exercise a day - for example a run, walk, or cycle - alone or with members of your household;
3) any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person; and
4) travelling to and from work, but only where this is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home.


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Kalvin Phillips' ‘head will be turned’ by transfer interest

Liverpool are the latest Premier League team to be linked with Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips .
The midfielder has become the most sought after star in the Championship over the past two seasons and Aston Villa tried to sign him last summer .
Villa were put off by Leeds ’ £30million valuation - but Dean Smith remains a fan of Phillips .
Wolverhampton Wanderers have also been linked with Phillips , who can play in midfield or in the centre of a back three .
According to Bleacher Report , Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is on the lookout for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Phillips is a contender .
And Alex Bruce believes it 's only natural that Phillips ' head would be turned by speculation linking him with a switch to Anfield .
Bruce told Football Insider : “ I think there ’ s no reason why he wouldn ’ t , why doesn ’ t everybody deserve the opportunity ?
“ He ’ s got great potential , he ’ s an excellent player , I think he would take some prising away from Leeds because Leeds in the Premier League , he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see he ’ s got a huge , huge rapport with the supporters .
“ However , when a club like Liverpool comes in , if they are in for him , then obviously that would turn anyone ’ s head .
I don ’ t see any reason why that would be nonsense because he ’ s a very good player , he ’ s young , the right age and has got huge potential .
”

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Liverpool are the latest Premier League team to be linked with Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips.
The midfielder has become the most sought after star in the Championship over the past two seasons and Aston Villa tried to sign him last summer.
Villa were put off by Leeds’ £30million valuation - but Dean Smith remains a fan of Phillips.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have also been linked with Phillips, who can play in midfield or in the centre of a back three.
According to Bleacher Report, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is on the lookout for a midfielder in the next transfer window and Phillips is a contender.
And Alex Bruce believes it's only natural that Phillips' head would be turned by speculation linking him with a switch to Anfield.
Bruce told Football Insider: “I think there’s no reason why he wouldn’t, why doesn’t everybody deserve the opportunity?
“He’s got great potential, he’s an excellent player, I think he would take some prising away from Leeds because Leeds in the Premier League, he’s a Leeds lad, everybody can see he’s got a huge, huge rapport with the supporters.
“However, when a club like Liverpool comes in, if they are in for him, then obviously that would turn anyone’s head. I don’t see any reason why that would be nonsense because he’s a very good player, he’s young, the right age and has got huge potential.”


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Timpson announces it's starting to reopen stores again

The family-run Timpson shoe repair business is set to reopen 40 of its 2,150 outlets - after shutting up shop five weeks ago for the first time since it was founded in 1865 .
The move follows on from leading supermarkets remaining open throughout the lockdown and DIY store B & Q being able to reopen some parts of its business - which resulted in long queues outside of the Halesowen and Shirley stores we visited on Saturday .
According to the Timpson website it is reopening inside Sainsbury 's Selly Oak , Leamington Spa , Telford , Tamworth , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ list of 40 outlets has yet to be confirmed and published .
Timpson kept going through two world wars , but closed its doors from March 22 .
That was after Prime Minister Boris Johnson had ordered pubs , bars , clubs and restaurants to close from Friday , March 20 - but before he addressed the nation at 8.30pm on Monday , March 23 to announce a wider lockdown .
The only part of the Timpson business left was a 24-hour locksmiths team operating out of pharmacies and supermarkets .
Timpson says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watch repairer , key cutter , engraver and dry cleaner in the UK .
It owns photo stores Snappy Snaps and Max Spielmann as well as Johnsons Cleaners UK and sells everything from magnetic vehicle signs to books on mental health .
CEO James Timpson OBE posted on Twitter today : `` Now we ’ re allowed to reopen our shops inside supermarkets we are coming out of hibernation in 40 shops next week as a trial .
`` We ’ ve been working hard to ensure shops are safe for our colleagues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Pods and High St to remain closed for now . ''
Mr Timpson is chairman of the Prison Reform Trust and refers to himself as a prison recruiter and a 'believer in Upside Down Management ' .
Writing on the company 's website , Mr Timpson said : `` We are slowly starting to emerge from hibernation by re-opening a few of our shops where it is safe and legal to do so .
`` Due to the coronavirus outbreak , we closed all of our shops for trading from 22 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trading without shutting its doors since 1865 , this includes two World Wars .
`` So , of course , we are keen to re-open as soon as possible .
But we will only do this where it is safe , legal and prudent to do so .
`` Our locksmiths business has continued offering a service throughout the lockdown and our web shop is up and running too . ''
It had also been recently advised that its shops located inside supermarkets could re-open to offer customers a full range of service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re-open we will ensure that we have strict social distancing measures in place and look forward to serving you again soon .
`` We have taken advice from the Government and our supermarket partners and will install Perspex sneeze-screens and implement strict hygiene routines in our shops .
`` We have also added in extra guidelines for our colleagues that reflect the specific nature of the work we do .
`` We are confident that the measures we have put in place will ensure our customers and colleagues are as safe as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place until government advice is updated and in consultation with our supermarket partners . ''
The Timpson website said some supermarkets would allow customers to go straight to a concession , others would want them to join the main trolley queue .
Coathangers are not being accepted back for recycling .
On its FAQ page , one question asks : `` Does dry cleaning kill the COVID-19 virus ? ''
Timpson replies : `` Our dry cleaning process kills 99.9 % of bacteria & viruses however independent research is currently being conducted on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Mr Timpson said many of his staff would remain on furlough until all shops reopened , but those who were waiting at home were still being paid 100 % of their pay .
`` Where we re-open a shop you will still be greeted by my amazing colleagues and a warm smile and I would like to repeat my thanks to all of my colleagues because they have been brilliant during this crisis , '' he said .
`` Many have been using their time to support the NHS and the vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There are 5,500 colleagues in our family and everyone has stood up to the mark . ''
@ Dakeb_MFCF asked : Is this because you are key workers ?
Stephen Jordan @ flashcity69 : `` Whilst this sounds positive my concern would be the more shops that reopen the more it encourages people to leave home .
If cases go up we could undo all the hard work and end up back at square one . ''
Chris Stagg @ ChrisStagg8 : `` Good luck with it , I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I ’ m looking forward to getting my loafers back ! ''

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The family-run Timpson shoe repair business is set to reopen 40 of its 2,150 outlets - after shutting up shop five weeks ago for the first time since it was founded in 1865.
The move follows on from leading supermarkets remaining open throughout the lockdown and DIY store B&Q being able to reopen some parts of its business - which resulted in long queues outside of the Halesowen and Shirley stores we visited on Saturday.
According to the Timpson website it is reopening inside Sainsbury's Selly Oak, Leamington Spa, Telford, Tamworth, Shrewsbury and Morrisons in Coventry.
The list of 40 outlets has yet to be confirmed and published.
Timpson kept going through two world wars, but closed its doors from March 22.
That was after Prime Minister Boris Johnson had ordered pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants to close from Friday, March 20 - but before he addressed the nation at 8.30pm on Monday, March 23 to announce a wider lockdown.
The only part of the Timpson business left was a 24-hour locksmiths team operating out of pharmacies and supermarkets.
Timpson says it's the largest shoe repairer, watch repairer, key cutter, engraver and dry cleaner in the UK.
It owns photo stores Snappy Snaps and Max Spielmann as well as Johnsons Cleaners UK and sells everything from magnetic vehicle signs to books on mental health.
CEO James Timpson OBE posted on Twitter today: "Now we’re allowed to reopen our shops inside supermarkets we are coming out of hibernation in 40 shops next week as a trial.
"We’ve been working hard to ensure shops are safe for our colleagues and customers, and social distancing works.
"Pods and High St to remain closed for now."
Mr Timpson is chairman of the Prison Reform Trust and refers to himself as a prison recruiter and a 'believer in Upside Down Management'.
Writing on the company's website, Mr Timpson said: "We are slowly starting to emerge from hibernation by re-opening a few of our shops where it is safe and legal to do so.
"Due to the coronavirus outbreak, we closed all of our shops for trading from 22 March. Our family business has been trading without shutting its doors since 1865, this includes two World Wars.
"So, of course, we are keen to re-open as soon as possible. But we will only do this where it is safe, legal and prudent to do so.
"Our locksmiths business has continued offering a service throughout the lockdown and our web shop is up and running too."
(Image: John James / BirminghamLive)
New plans by Timpson
Mr Timpson said Government restrictions allowed dry cleaning shops to open.
It had also been recently advised that its shops located inside supermarkets could re-open to offer customers a full range of service.
Mr Timpson added: Where we re-open we will ensure that we have strict social distancing measures in place and look forward to serving you again soon.
"We have taken advice from the Government and our supermarket partners and will install Perspex sneeze-screens and implement strict hygiene routines in our shops.
"We have also added in extra guidelines for our colleagues that reflect the specific nature of the work we do.
"We are confident that the measures we have put in place will ensure our customers and colleagues are as safe as possible.
"These measures will remain in place until government advice is updated and in consultation with our supermarket partners."
The Timpson website said some supermarkets would allow customers to go straight to a concession, others would want them to join the main trolley queue.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Coathangers are not being accepted back for recycling.
On its FAQ page, one question asks: "Does dry cleaning kill the COVID-19 virus?"
Timpson replies: "Our dry cleaning process kills 99.9% of bacteria & viruses however independent research is currently being conducted on COVID 19 to prove this conclusively."
Timpson workers
Mr Timpson said many of his staff would remain on furlough until all shops reopened, but those who were waiting at home were still being paid 100% of their pay.
"Where we re-open a shop you will still be greeted by my amazing colleagues and a warm smile and I would like to repeat my thanks to all of my colleagues because they have been brilliant during this crisis," he said.
"Many have been using their time to support the NHS and the vulnerable from driving ambulances to making face masks.
"There are 5,500 colleagues in our family and everyone has stood up to the mark."
Public reaction to Timpson reopening
@Dakeb_MFCF asked: Is this because you are key workers?
Stephen Jordan @flashcity69: "Whilst this sounds positive my concern would be the more shops that reopen the more it encourages people to leave home. If cases go up we could undo all the hard work and end up back at square one."
Chris Stagg @ChrisStagg8: "Good luck with it, I’m sure your team will manage it well. I’m looking forward to getting my loafers back!"


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Live updates - Marston Green Park closed off after double stabbing

Two teenage boys have been injured in a double stabbing at a city park , it has been confirmed .
A boy aged 16 is fighting for his life in hospital and a second , aged 19 , is in a stable condition after the broad daylight incident this afternoon ( Sunday , April 26 ) .
Police cordoned off the Marston Green Park after the 2.40pm attack and a schoolboy , aged 14 , has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder .
He remains in police custody for questioning as witnesses are urged to contact West Midlands Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We will be updating it .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news .
We are also on Instagram .
If you are on the go , the Birmingham Live app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live .
Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor made to bring you the latest on what matters to you .
Breaking news , the latest on your football club , the pick of the weeks events and the latest travel - you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first .
Download it on iPhone and Android .

Two teenage boys have been injured in a double stabbing at a city park, it has been confirmed.
A boy aged 16 is fighting for his life in hospital and a second, aged 19, is in a stable condition after the broad daylight incident this afternoon (Sunday, April 26).
Police cordoned off the Marston Green Park after the 2.40pm attack and a schoolboy, aged 14, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
He remains in police custody for questioning as witnesses are urged to contact West Midlands Police.
This is a breaking news story. We will be updating it.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram.
If you are on the go, the Birmingham Live app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live.
Available on iPhone and Android, the app can be tailor made to bring you the latest on what matters to you.
Breaking news, the latest on your football club, the pick of the weeks events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you.
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.
Download it on iPhone and Android.


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Gary Neville demands action over clubs taking Villa's stance

Aston Villa ’ s first team squad have agreed to take a 25 per cent wage deferral for the next four months .
Virtually every football club across the country is feeling the financial strain of the coronavirus pandemic with games suspended indefinitely .
Villa are no different and chief executive Christian Purslow revealed on Saturday that the first team and senior staff members have all agreed to take a 25 per cent reduction for the time being .
It was a move which was overwhelmingly supported by fans as it allows Villa to resist any urge to opt into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-playing staff .
Purslow also called for the Premier League to support clubs further down the football pyramid in his statement .
He said : “ First team players , first team coaches and senior management have all agreed to defer 25 per cent of their salaries for four months to assist the club during this period of uncertainty with a further review taking place at the end of this period .
“ During the two seasons since Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens rescued Aston Villa they have supported and funded the rebuilding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of personal financial investment .
“ They are continuing to provide substantial funding which , combined with these significant salary deferrals , enables Aston Villa to confirm that all non-football staff - full and part-time - will be retained and paid in full throughout the lockdown .
There will be no furloughing of staff .
“ Our players and staff feel great solidarity with the many clubs in the football pyramid who have financial problems and we believe it is right and proper that the Premier League as a whole takes action on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to continue to provide vital funding throughout the game in England.
” However , there are plenty who believe clubs asking players to defer wages aren ’ t morally obliged to then splash the cash once the transfer window opens .
Gary Neville has been particularly outspoken on that , as well as clubs using the furlough scheme , and suggests those who negotiate cuts to players ’ salaries should be temporarily suspended from making signings .
Speaking recently about the Premier League ’ s bid to get players to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent , Sky Sports pundit Neville said : “ What I would say in the bigger picture , these transfer discussions , whether it be Harry Kane from Tottenham to Manchester United for £200million or Jadon Sancho , you know £100million to City or United and there have been other suggestions over the weekend of signings for £85million .
“ What I would say is there is nothing the Premier League can do about this .
“ It completely undermines the discussions that they ’ re having with the players about taking a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you ’ re asking for a 30 per cent pay cut across the board and you ’ re going to spend another £1billion in two months on transfers - which the Premier League have spent £1.4bn last summer on transfers .
“ If you ’ re trying to get 30 per cent pay cuts off existing players you may have to put a transfer embargo in place .
“ If I was the PFA , say it is Tottenham that want a 30 per cent pay cut or let ’ s say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which is what we said a couple of weeks ago , it is very difficult for the players to then see the club do a £200m transfer three weeks later .
“ What I would say at this moment in time is that transfers is something the fans love , we love , we love players moving around .
“ But it does feel to be wrong when we have such a behind the scenes war going on with respect to players taking cuts , clubs needing support , which I believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ ve got £200m transfer speculation going on .
“ It doesn ’ t feel to me right , so my view would be that the Premier League can ’ t stop the speculation but there is no smoke without fire .
“ I would suggest the Premier League at this moment in time , to stop this , would probably put a transfer embargo in place on all clubs that are looking to reduce their player wages .
“ That would take away a lot of the angst that is existing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are having the wool pulled over their eyes by their clubs .
”

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Aston Villa’s first team squad have agreed to take a 25 per cent wage deferral for the next four months.
Virtually every football club across the country is feeling the financial strain of the coronavirus pandemic with games suspended indefinitely.
Villa are no different and chief executive Christian Purslow revealed on Saturday that the first team and senior staff members have all agreed to take a 25 per cent reduction for the time being.
It was a move which was overwhelmingly supported by fans as it allows Villa to resist any urge to opt into the government’s furloughing scheme for non-playing staff.
Purslow also called for the Premier League to support clubs further down the football pyramid in his statement.
He said: “First team players, first team coaches and senior management have all agreed to defer 25 per cent of their salaries for four months to assist the club during this period of uncertainty with a further review taking place at the end of this period.
“During the two seasons since Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens rescued Aston Villa they have supported and funded the rebuilding of the club with a huge level of personal financial investment.
“They are continuing to provide substantial funding which, combined with these significant salary deferrals, enables Aston Villa to confirm that all non-football staff - full and part-time - will be retained and paid in full throughout the lockdown. There will be no furloughing of staff.
“Our players and staff feel great solidarity with the many clubs in the football pyramid who have financial problems and we believe it is right and proper that the Premier League as a whole takes action on its finances collectively to enable it to be able to continue to provide vital funding throughout the game in England.”
However, there are plenty who believe clubs asking players to defer wages aren’t morally obliged to then splash the cash once the transfer window opens.
Gary Neville has been particularly outspoken on that, as well as clubs using the furlough scheme, and suggests those who negotiate cuts to players’ salaries should be temporarily suspended from making signings.
Speaking recently about the Premier League’s bid to get players to take a reduction of up to 30 per cent, Sky Sports pundit Neville said: “What I would say in the bigger picture, these transfer discussions, whether it be Harry Kane from Tottenham to Manchester United for £200million or Jadon Sancho, you know £100million to City or United and there have been other suggestions over the weekend of signings for £85million.
“What I would say is there is nothing the Premier League can do about this.
“It completely undermines the discussions that they’re having with the players about taking a 30 per cent pay cut.
“If you’re asking for a 30 per cent pay cut across the board and you’re going to spend another £1billion in two months on transfers - which the Premier League have spent £1.4bn last summer on transfers.
“If you’re trying to get 30 per cent pay cuts off existing players you may have to put a transfer embargo in place.
“If I was the PFA, say it is Tottenham that want a 30 per cent pay cut or let’s say it is Manchester United on the players, which is what we said a couple of weeks ago, it is very difficult for the players to then see the club do a £200m transfer three weeks later.
“What I would say at this moment in time is that transfers is something the fans love, we love, we love players moving around.
“But it does feel to be wrong when we have such a behind the scenes war going on with respect to players taking cuts, clubs needing support, which I believe they do and in the next breath you’ve got £200m transfer speculation going on.
“It doesn’t feel to me right, so my view would be that the Premier League can’t stop the speculation but there is no smoke without fire.
“I would suggest the Premier League at this moment in time, to stop this, would probably put a transfer embargo in place on all clubs that are looking to reduce their player wages.
“That would take away a lot of the angst that is existing behind the scenes with players who think they are having the wool pulled over their eyes by their clubs.”


birminghammail--2020-04-26--Girl, 10, made face masks for school project - and now has thousands of orders

When the UK went into lockdown , Millie Millburn , 10 , decided to make a face mask using scraps from her mum Jo 's sewing box .
Jo posted a photo of Millie in the mask on Facebook and was surprised when people asked if they could order one for themselves .
So , Millie began to make some for friends .
Now she has more than 2,000 orders and is donating 20 per cent of her profits to charities , like the NHS Volunteers Group and Birmingham Community Solidarity .
`` I started making face masks as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone crazy , '' said Millie , from Stirchley , who sings in a heavy metal band called HAQ123 .
`` We 've got over 2,000 orders which is quite a lot - me and my mum are going to fall asleep by the end of it !
`` It all started when my mum posted a picture of me in my mask on Facebook and people started asking if we could start a business and start selling them so that 's where it all evolved . ''
She added : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next couple of weeks !
We 're also giving people the chance to gift masks to people who need them the most , like NHS workers , and giving 20 per cent of our money to charity . ''
Millie has set up her own website called Millie 's Masks where people can order masks , costing £4 to £6 each , in a range of cool designs , including skulls , stars , flowers , rainbows , birds and unicorns .
They can also choose to gift buy masks for £4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those in need .
Fortunately , Millie has learnt how to sew from her mum Jo , who runs a bespoke bridal business called The Couture Company , based at Minerva Works in Digbeth .
`` It kind of snowballed after putting the picture on Facebook , '' said Jo , who has had to temporarily close her shop due to the lockdown restrictions .
`` We were interviewed by Nihal on 5Live and mentioned in an article in the Telegraph .
Now we have 2,000 orders including nearly 500 gifted masks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ do at home with your kids throughout lockdown ?
The best way to find out all the brilliant online events is to join our Brummie Mummies tribe !
Simply like our Brummie Mummies Facebook page to be kept up to date - and join our Brummie Mummies and Daddies Staying In Ideas Facebook group to post questions and ask for recommendations .
You an also sign up to our free Brummie Mummies email newsletter to have fresh ideas delivered to your inbox every week .
We 've also launched a brand new Lemon-Aid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on how to survive lockdown with your family .
And we 've brought back the Chipper Club to bring you weekly projects your kids can enjoy without leaving the house .
Let 's stick together as we stay home , protect the NHS and stay safe xx She added : `` I have had to enlist the help of friends to help us out as it 's been a bit of a shock !
Don ’ t worry , Millie 's not making all the masks , especially now she 's back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say she has more of a creative director role and she is very good at sewing , turning the masks inside out and loves making videos and doing the artwork for the website !
`` She drew the characters on the website with the help of a friend , she is learning an art app on her tablet to help that .
`` I am incredibly proud of Millie , '' she added .
`` She 's funny , kind and clever , and has lots of wonderful and creative ideas .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does and has a real competitive streak .
`` Her school St Edwards Catholic Primary in Selly Park has made her Star of the Week after hearing about her masks .
She 's well chuffed .
`` The best thing is that people can pay it forward to those in need , 20 per cent of the profits are going to Covid / NHS causes and Millie is learning things school can never teach her - sewing , organising , cutting , maths , english by writing content for the website and social @ @ @

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When the UK went into lockdown, Millie Millburn, 10, decided to make a face mask using scraps from her mum Jo's sewing box.
Jo posted a photo of Millie in the mask on Facebook and was surprised when people asked if they could order one for themselves.
So, Millie began to make some for friends. Now she has more than 2,000 orders and is donating 20 per cent of her profits to charities, like the NHS Volunteers Group and Birmingham Community Solidarity.
"I started making face masks as a small side project and now it's gone crazy," said Millie, from Stirchley, who sings in a heavy metal band called HAQ123.
"We've got over 2,000 orders which is quite a lot - me and my mum are going to fall asleep by the end of it!
"It all started when my mum posted a picture of me in my mask on Facebook and people started asking if we could start a business and start selling them so that's where it all evolved."
(Image: Darren Millburn)
She added: "We're going to be very busy for the next couple of weeks! We're also giving people the chance to gift masks to people who need them the most, like NHS workers, and giving 20 per cent of our money to charity."
Millie has set up her own website called Millie's Masks where people can order masks, costing £4 to £8 each, in a range of cool designs, including skulls, stars, flowers, rainbows, birds and unicorns.
They can also choose to gift buy masks to enable Millie to pass them onto those in need.
(Image: Darren Millburn)
Fortunately, Millie has learnt how to sew from her mum Jo, who runs a bespoke bridal business called The Couture Company, based at Minerva Works in Digbeth.
"It kind of snowballed after putting the picture on Facebook," said Jo, who has had to temporarily close her shop due to the lockdown restrictions.
"We were interviewed by Nihal on 5Live and mentioned in an article in the Telegraph. Now we have 2,000 orders including nearly 500 gifted masks."
Brummie Mummies Staying In Family Fun Looking for ideas on things to do at home with your kids throughout lockdown? Follow our Brummie Mummies Facebook page to be kept up to date - and sign up to our free Brummie Mummies email newsletter to have fresh ideas delivered to your inbox every week. We've also launched a brand new Lemon-Aid newsletter where you can get daily tips on how to survive lockdown with your family. And we've brought back the Chipper Club to bring you weekly projects your kids can enjoy without leaving the house.
She added: "I have had to enlist the help of friends to help us out as it's been a bit of a shock! Don’t worry, Millie's not making all the masks, especially now she's back to doing school work.
"Let's say she has more of a creative director role and she is very good at sewing, turning the masks inside out and loves making videos and doing the artwork for the website!
"She drew the characters on the website with the help of a friend, she is learning an art app on her tablet to help that.
"I am incredibly proud of Millie," she added. "She's funny, kind and clever, and has lots of wonderful and creative ideas. She likes to do well in whatever she does and has a real competitive streak.
"Her school St Edwards Catholic Primary in Selly Park has made her Star of the Week after hearing about her masks. She's well chuffed.
"The best thing is that people can pay it forward to those in need, 20 per cent of the profits are going to Covid / NHS causes and Millie is learning things school can never teach her - sewing, organising, cutting, maths, english by writing content for the website and social media."


birminghammail--2020-04-27--Fresh Aston Villa update receives widespread approval

Aston Villa have announced a fresh initiative to help Birmingham ’ s most vulnerable during this time of national crisis .
The coronavirus pandemic has only added to the stress and strain on the city ’ s vulnerable and the Aston Villa Foundation ’ s ‘ Villa Kitchen ’ is being expanded .
The aim is to provide up to 500 hot meals each week , with local organisations distributing them accordingly .
Funds raised from the ‘ Big Villa Sleep Out ’ in 2019 , as well as a donation from chief executive Christian Purslow , have made the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s website : “ I am delighted to be able to support the Villa Kitchen , particularly during a time where this vital work will be needed more than ever , helping the most vulnerable in our society .
“ Aston Villa Football Club and the Aston Villa Foundation will continue to aid those who are in need in the city of Birmingham during these most uncertain of times.
” The club statement adds : “ Villa Kitchen has been running since January , cooking 350 meals each week in partnership with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to homeless people across the city through a range of outreach charities and organisations .
“ The new investment will broaden the range of people they support , aiming to help feed the elderly , people with disabilities , shelters ( such as domestic violence and refugee ) and families who ’ ve been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
” It ’ s a move which has been overwhelmingly backed by supporters .
Hayden Froggatt said : “ Hats off to the person behind all this great work that ’ s been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see our club being run properly .
Thank you NSWE , Purslow & Co !
” “ Once again proud of you , ” added another Villa supporter .
The club also announced first team players and senior staff members have agreed to take a 25 per cent wage deferral for four months over the weekend .

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Aston Villa have announced a fresh initiative to help Birmingham’s most vulnerable during this time of national crisis.
The coronavirus pandemic has only added to the stress and strain on the city’s vulnerable and the Aston Villa Foundation’s ‘Villa Kitchen’ is being expanded.
The aim is to provide up to 500 hot meals each week, with local organisations distributing them accordingly.
Funds raised from the ‘Big Villa Sleep Out’ in 2019, as well as a donation from chief executive Christian Purslow, have made the new venture possible.
Purslow told Villa’s website: “I am delighted to be able to support the Villa Kitchen, particularly during a time where this vital work will be needed more than ever, helping the most vulnerable in our society.
“Aston Villa Football Club and the Aston Villa Foundation will continue to aid those who are in need in the city of Birmingham during these most uncertain of times.”
The club statement adds: “Villa Kitchen has been running since January, cooking 350 meals each week in partnership with club catering partner Levy UK and distributing them to homeless people across the city through a range of outreach charities and organisations.
“The new investment will broaden the range of people they support, aiming to help feed the elderly, people with disabilities, shelters (such as domestic violence and refugee) and families who’ve been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.”
It’s a move which has been overwhelmingly backed by supporters.
Hayden Froggatt said: “Hats off to the person behind all this great work that’s been revealed the last few weeks. Great to see our club being run properly. Thank you NSWE, Purslow & Co!”
“Once again proud of you,” added another Villa supporter. The club also announced first team players and senior staff members have agreed to take a 25 per cent wage deferral for four months over the weekend.


birminghammail--2020-04-27--Drunk BMW motorist killed taxi driver taking Greggs worker to bakery

A drunk driver who killed a taxi driver and his passenger after speeding through a red light has been jailed for nine years .
Ryan Howard , 27 , was more than twice the drink-drive limit when his BMW collided with the taxi driven by David Sherwin , 51 , who was taking mother-of-two Michelle Jennings , 35 , to work at Greggs in Liverpool just after 5am on February 27 last year .
Sentencing Howard at Liverpool Crown Court , Judge Andrew Menary QC said cases of dangerous driving `` do not get much worse than this '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughter Kirsty said Howard had made `` selfish choices '' which would affect her , her mother , who has multiple sclerosis , and many others for the rest of their lives .
She said : `` It is because of his recklessness that my dad will never be there to walk me down the aisle . ''
In a moving statement which he read to the court , Mrs Jennings ' husband Ged said she was kind , bubbly and funny .
He described breaking the news of her death to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and Harry , who was approaching his seventh birthday at the time .
He said : `` My life has changed immeasurably and the lives of my kids will never be the same .
`` I lost my best friend and the world has lost a shining star . ''
The court heard Howard , from St Helens , had driven to Liverpool with friend Louis Hayes the previous evening and been drinking in pubs and clubs until about 4.30am .
Keith Sutton , prosecuting , said Howard `` insisted '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returned to the car .
Mr Hayes described the defendant driving at speeds of up to 75mph as they passed Everton Football Club 's ground , Goodison Park , on their way out of the city .
The court heard there were stationary vehicles in two lanes as Howard approached traffic lights on the junction of East Lancashire Road and Bridgehouse Lane in Croxteth .
Judge Menary said : `` Rather than slow down and stop yourself , you pulled over into the offside lane and accelerated through those red lights .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The lights had been red for 16 seconds when Howard drove through them , travelling at 83mph before crashing into Mr Sherwin 's Ford Mondeo as it pulled out of Bridgehouse Lane , the court heard .
The judge said : `` You could n't have failed to see them .
Maybe you were gambling on them turning to green before you got to the junction .
`` If so , two people paid the price when you lost that bet . ''
The court heard Mr Sherwin , who had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was unlikely to have been able to see Howard 's car until the last moment .
Mr Sutton said Howard originally claimed he had gone through an amber light and Mr Sherwin had crashed into him .
He later said he had no recollection of the crash or whether he was driving , but his DNA was found on the driver 's airbag and he pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving in February .
The court heard Mrs Jennings died in hospital later that morning while Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injury , died on March 13 .
Michael Hegarty , defending , said Howard expressed `` profound remorse and regret '' for his actions .
He added : `` The defendant knows that words can never rectify the harm his actions have caused , which will live with the family and friends of Mr Sherwin and Mrs Jennings for the rest of their lives . ''
Howard was also disqualified from driving for nine years and ordered to take an extended driving test before he is allowed to drive again .

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A drunk driver who killed a taxi driver and his passenger after speeding through a red light has been jailed for nine years.
Ryan Howard, 27, was more than twice the drink-drive limit when his BMW collided with the taxi driven by David Sherwin, 51, who was taking mother-of-two Michelle Jennings, 35, to work at Greggs in Liverpool just after 5am on February 27 last year.
Sentencing Howard at Liverpool Crown Court, Judge Andrew Menary QC said cases of dangerous driving "do not get much worse than this".
Addressing the court, Mr Sherwin's daughter Kirsty said Howard had made "selfish choices" which would affect her, her mother, who has multiple sclerosis, and many others for the rest of their lives.
She said: "It is because of his recklessness that my dad will never be there to walk me down the aisle."
In a moving statement which he read to the court, Mrs Jennings' husband Ged said she was kind, bubbly and funny.
He described breaking the news of her death to their children Sophia, who was then eight, and Harry, who was approaching his seventh birthday at the time.
He said: "My life has changed immeasurably and the lives of my kids will never be the same.
"I lost my best friend and the world has lost a shining star."
The court heard Howard, from St Helens, had driven to Liverpool with friend Louis Hayes the previous evening and been drinking in pubs and clubs until about 4.30am.
Keith Sutton, prosecuting, said Howard "insisted" he would drive the pair home when they returned to the car.
Mr Hayes described the defendant driving at speeds of up to 75mph as they passed Everton Football Club's ground, Goodison Park, on their way out of the city.
The court heard there were stationary vehicles in two lanes as Howard approached traffic lights on the junction of East Lancashire Road and Bridgehouse Lane in Croxteth.
Judge Menary said: "Rather than slow down and stop yourself, you pulled over into the offside lane and accelerated through those red lights. You made no effort to stop at all."
The lights had been red for 16 seconds when Howard drove through them, travelling at 83mph before crashing into Mr Sherwin's Ford Mondeo as it pulled out of Bridgehouse Lane, the court heard.
The judge said: "You couldn't have failed to see them. Maybe you were gambling on them turning to green before you got to the junction.
"If so, two people paid the price when you lost that bet."
The court heard Mr Sherwin, who had been a taxi driver for 20 years, was unlikely to have been able to see Howard's car until the last moment.
Mr Sutton said Howard originally claimed he had gone through an amber light and Mr Sherwin had crashed into him.
He later said he had no recollection of the crash or whether he was driving, but his DNA was found on the driver's airbag and he pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving in February.
The court heard Mrs Jennings died in hospital later that morning while Mr Sherwin, who suffered a traumatic brain injury, died on March 13.
(Image: Shirwin family)
Michael Hegarty, defending, said Howard expressed "profound remorse and regret" for his actions.
He added: "The defendant knows that words can never rectify the harm his actions have caused, which will live with the family and friends of Mr Sherwin and Mrs Jennings for the rest of their lives."
Howard was also disqualified from driving for nine years and ordered to take an extended driving test before he is allowed to drive again.


birminghammail--2020-04-27--67 complaints as Brum businesses rapped for flouting lock down rules

A total of eight business have been warned or issued with prohibition notices over breaking coronavirus lock down rules .
Birmingham City Council revealed its Trading Standards department has received 67 complaints of businesses staying open since March 16 .
The council released the figures in response to a Freedom of Information request from the Local Democracy Reporting Service which is asking authorities across the country about enforcement .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged the public to avoid “ non-essential contact ” on March 16 , and introduced a formal lock down on March 23 .
Pubs , restaurants , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the lock down measures , which formally came into force with the Health Protection ( Coronavirus , Restrictions ) ( England ) Regulations 2020 .
Local authorities were given powers to issue fixed penalty notices to anyone who breaks the emergency regulations while they are in force .
The Freedom of Information Request response suggests no fines have yet been issued but the council has issued six Warning Notices and and two Stop/Prohibition Notices .
The city council stated : “ 67 complaints have been received from the week commencing March 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relate to businesses failing to close - but a number of the businesses identified were able to continue to open their premises under the exemptions within the regulations .
`` We currently have 18 Trading Standards Officers .
We are responding to each enquiry through telephone calls , emails , letters and visits where appropriate .
We have not had to increase the workforce to cope with the rise in caseload .
“ Along with our Environmental Health colleagues we have undertaken a number of visits resulting in six businesses being issued with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Stop/Prohibition Notices .
“ All of these enforcement actions related to businesses that were purportedly opening premises contrary to the regulations .
“ We have not received any complaints against public houses during this period however other licensed premises have included takeaway premises who are permitted to continue to open.
” The Local Democracy Reporting Service has previously reported Birmingham ’ s Trading Standards team has encountered instances of shops “ hiking ” prices to capitalise on the crisis .
Tony Quigley , Head of Trading Standards at Birmingham City Council , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selling “ rice or flour ” with a recommended retail price ( RRP ) of £13 for £20 .

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A total of eight business have been warned or issued with prohibition notices over breaking coronavirus lock down rules.
Birmingham City Council revealed its Trading Standards department has received 67 complaints of businesses staying open since March 16.
The council released the figures in response to a Freedom of Information request from the Local Democracy Reporting Service which is asking authorities across the country about enforcement.
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged the public to avoid “non-essential contact” on March 16, and introduced a formal lock down on March 23.
Pubs, restaurants, cafes and gyms were told to close under the lock down measures, which formally came into force with the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020.
Local authorities were given powers to issue fixed penalty notices to anyone who breaks the emergency regulations while they are in force.
The Freedom of Information Request response suggests no fines have yet been issued but the council has issued six Warning Notices and and two Stop/Prohibition Notices.
The city council stated: “67 complaints have been received from the week commencing March 16 to last week.
“These complaints relate to businesses failing to close - but a number of the businesses identified were able to continue to open their premises under the exemptions within the regulations.
"We currently have 18 Trading Standards Officers. We are responding to each enquiry through telephone calls, emails, letters and visits where appropriate. We have not had to increase the workforce to cope with the rise in caseload.
“Along with our Environmental Health colleagues we have undertaken a number of visits resulting in six businesses being issued with Warning Notices and two businesses being issued with Stop/Prohibition Notices.
“All of these enforcement actions related to businesses that were purportedly opening premises contrary to the regulations.
“We have not received any complaints against public houses during this period however other licensed premises have included takeaway premises who are permitted to continue to open.”
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The Local Democracy Reporting Service has previously reported Birmingham’s Trading Standards team has encountered instances of shops “hiking” prices to capitalise on the crisis.
Tony Quigley, Head of Trading Standards at Birmingham City Council, said one city centre shop was reportedly selling “rice or flour” with a recommended retail price (RRP) of £13 for £20.


birminghammail--2020-04-27--28 flights launched to bring back Brits from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh

Thousands of Brits are set to be repatriated on a string of flights from Asia this week .
Bangladesh , India and Pakistan will receive flights from the UK as the country 's government launches a programme to bring back stranded Brits .
The charter flights are for British nationals who normally reside in the UK and their direct dependants .
Seats on these flights are only available to those already registered and on a waitlist , according to the government website .
Those who are eligible to fly will be sent information on how to get to airports and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed .
3,600 more stranded British travellers are set to return home from India on 14 new flights chartered by the UK government .
Once completed , these additional flights will bring the total number of people flown to the UK from India on government charter flights to over 13,000 .
Details of the flights are as follows : • Amritsar to the UK on 28 , 29 , 30 April and 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 May • Ahmedabad to the UK on 28 , 29 April and 1 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK on 30 April The government has now chartered 52 flights from India to bring stranded British travellers home .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said : `` Travel to and from India is severely restricted and so we have organised a series of charter flights .
`` Through these 52 UK charter flights , we will have brought back 13,000 people and our staff in India will continue to support all those UK nationals who need our help . ''
Minister of State for South Asia and the Commonwealth , Lord ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have already helped over 6,500 people return from India since we began our charter flight programme , with a further 7,000 due to return in the coming weeks .
`` The 14 new flights announced today bring the total number of UK government charter flights from India to 52 .
`` We are continuing to work around the clock to ensure all British travellers in India are supported to come back to the UK if they wish . ''
Jan Thompson , Acting High Commissioner to India , said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and continuing support of the Indian government and airport authorities in facilitating this unprecedented repatriation exercise .
`` We are continuing to work around the clock to get as many British nationals home as possible . ''
Almost 5,000 British travellers in Pakistan are to be brought home to the UK following the announcement today of a further nine Government-chartered flights .
These will include the first UK charter flight from Karachi , which will depart on 30 April , in addition to further departures from Islamabad and Lahore .
Around 2,500 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government charter flights that are taking place between April 21 – 27 .
This second phase of flights announced today will carry more than 2,250 travellers .
The new flights are as follows : • 1 May : Lahore to London , Islamabad to Manchester • 2 May : Islamabad to Manchester , Lahore to Manchester • 5 May : Lahore to Manchester , Islamabad to Manchester Details of the flights are as follows : This brings the total number of special charter flights organised by the UK Government from Bangladesh to nine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brought back more than 2,100 British travellers in total .
Four in-country connecting flights between Sylhet and Dhaka are also taking place .
These will run on 29 April and 1 , 5 , and 7 May .
Given the number of people who have already registered for a flight , the majority of seats are likely to be allocated to people who are already on waitlists , having registered via the CTM website .

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Thousands of Brits are set to be repatriated on a string of flights from Asia this week.
Bangladesh, India and Pakistan will receive flights from the UK as the country's government launches a programme to bring back stranded Brits.
The charter flights are for British nationals who normally reside in the UK and their direct dependants.
Seats on these flights are only available to those already registered and on a waitlist, according to the government website.
Those who are eligible to fly will be sent information on how to get to airports and flight itineraries directly when their seat is confirmed.
India
3,600 more stranded British travellers are set to return home from India on 14 new flights chartered by the UK government.
Once completed, these additional flights will bring the total number of people flown to the UK from India on government charter flights to over 13,000.
Details of the flights are as follows:
Amritsar to the UK on 28, 29, 30 April and 1, 2, 3, 4 May
Ahmedabad to the UK on 28, 29 April and 1, 3, 4 May
Delhi to the UK on 30 April
The government has now chartered 52 flights from India to bring stranded British travellers home.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: "Travel to and from India is severely restricted and so we have organised a series of charter flights.
"Through these 52 UK charter flights, we will have brought back 13,000 people and our staff in India will continue to support all those UK nationals who need our help."
Minister of State for South Asia and the Commonwealth, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon said: "We have already helped over 6,500 people return from India since we began our charter flight programme, with a further 7,000 due to return in the coming weeks.
"The 14 new flights announced today bring the total number of UK government charter flights from India to 52.
"We are continuing to work around the clock to ensure all British travellers in India are supported to come back to the UK if they wish."
Jan Thompson, Acting High Commissioner to India, said: "We are extremely grateful for the close and continuing support of the Indian government and airport authorities in facilitating this unprecedented repatriation exercise.
"We are continuing to work around the clock to get as many British nationals home as possible."
(Image: Steve Parsons/PA Wire)
Pakistan
Almost 5,000 British travellers in Pakistan are to be brought home to the UK following the announcement today of a further nine Government-chartered flights.
These will include the first UK charter flight from Karachi, which will depart on 30 April, in addition to further departures from Islamabad and Lahore.
Around 2,500 people have already booked on to the ten Government charter flights that are taking place between April 21 – 27. This second phase of flights announced today will carry more than 2,250 travellers.
The new flights are as follows:
30 April: Karachi to London, Islamabad to Manchester
1 May: Lahore to London, Islamabad to Manchester
2 May: Islamabad to Manchester, Lahore to Manchester
4 May: Islamabad to London
5 May: Lahore to Manchester, Islamabad to Manchester
Bangladesh
Details of the flights are as follows:
29 April: Dhaka-London
1 May: Dhaka-London
3 May: Dhaka-London
5 May: Dhaka-London
7 May: Dhaka-London
This brings the total number of special charter flights organised by the UK Government from Bangladesh to nine. Once completed, they will have brought back more than 2,100 British travellers in total.
Four in-country connecting flights between Sylhet and Dhaka are also taking place. These will run on 29 April and 1, 5, and 7 May.
Given the number of people who have already registered for a flight, the majority of seats are likely to be allocated to people who are already on waitlists, having registered via the CTM website.