news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: UK lockdown measures in full - what's closing, and how long it will last

Boris Johnson has announced a raft of tough new measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic .
Here , in full , is the government 's guidance on what the prime minister has announced .
NEW RULES ON STAYING AT HOME AND AWAY FROM OTHERS The single most important action we can all take , in fighting coronavirus , is to stay at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives .
When we reduce our day-to-day contact with other people , we will reduce the spread of the infection .
That is why the government is now ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures .
1 .
Requiring people to stay at home , except for very limited purposes 2 .
Closing non-essential shops and community spaces 3 .
Stopping all gatherings of more than two people in public Every citizen must comply with these new measures .
The relevant authorities , including the police , will be given the powers to enforce them - including through fines and dispersing gatherings .
These measures are effective immediately .
The government will look again at these measures in three weeks , and relax them if the evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only leave the house for one of four reasons .
• Shopping for basic necessities , for example food and medicine , which must be as infrequent as possible • One form of exercise a day , for example a run , walk , or cycle - alone or with members of your household • Any medical need , or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person • Travelling to and from work , but only where this absolutely can not be done from home .
These four reasons are exceptions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you should be minimising time spent outside of the home and ensuring you are 2 metres apart from anyone outside of your household .
These measures must be followed by everyone .
Separate advice is available for individuals or households who are isolating , and for the most vulnerable who need to be shielded .
If you work in a critical sector outlined in this guidance , or your child has been identified as vulnerable , you can continue to take your children to school .
Last week , the government ordered certain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ theatres - to close .
The government is now extending this requirement to a further set of businesses and other venues , including : • All non-essential retail stores - this will include clothing and electronics stores ; hair , beauty and nail salons ; and outdoor and indoor markets , excluding food markets • Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities such as bowling alleys , arcades and soft play facilities • Communal places within parks , such as playgrounds , sports courts and outdoor gyms • Places of worship , except for funerals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hostels , bed and breakfasts , campsites , caravan parks , and boarding houses for commercial/leisure use ( excluding permanent residents and key workers ) .
To make sure people are staying at home and apart from each other , the government is also stopping all public gatherings of more than two people .
There are only two exceptions to this rule : • where the gathering is of a group of people who live together - this means that a parent can , for example , take their children to the shops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them at home .
• where the gathering is essential for work purposes - but workers should be trying to minimise all meetings and other gatherings in the workplace .
In addition , the government is stopping social events , including weddings , baptisms and other religious ceremonies .
This will exclude funerals , which can be attended by immediate family .
These measures will reduce our day to day contact with other people .
They are a vital part of our efforts to reduce the rate of transmission of coronavirus .
Every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new measures .
The government will therefore be ensuring the police and other relevant authorities have the powers to enforce them , including through fines and dispersing gatherings where people do not comply .
They will initially last for the three weeks from 23 March , at which point the government will look at them again and relax them if the evidence shows this is possible .

Boris Johnson has announced a raft of tough new measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic. Here, in full, is the government's guidance on what the prime minister has announced.
NEW RULES ON STAYING AT HOME AND AWAY FROM OTHERS
The single most important action we can all take, in fighting coronavirus, is to stay at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives.
When we reduce our day-to-day contact with other people, we will reduce the spread of the infection.
That is why the government is now (23 March 2020) introducing three new measures.
1. Requiring people to stay at home, except for very limited purposes
2. Closing non-essential shops and community spaces
3. Stopping all gatherings of more than two people in public
Every citizen must comply with these new measures. The relevant authorities, including the police, will be given the powers to enforce them - including through fines and dispersing gatherings.
These measures are effective immediately. The government will look again at these measures in three weeks, and relax them if the evidence shows this is possible.
1. STAYING AT HOME
You should only leave the house for one of four reasons.
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Shopping for basic necessities, for example food and medicine, which must be as infrequent as possible
One form of exercise a day, for example a run, walk, or cycle - alone or with members of your household
Any medical need, or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person
Travelling to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot be done from home.
These four reasons are exceptions - even when doing these activities, you should be minimising time spent outside of the home and ensuring you are 2 metres apart from anyone outside of your household.
These measures must be followed by everyone. Separate advice is available for individuals or households who are isolating, and for the most vulnerable who need to be shielded.
If you work in a critical sector outlined in this guidance, or your child has been identified as vulnerable, you can continue to take your children to school.
2. CLOSING NON-ESSENTIAL SHOPS AND PUBLIC SPACES
Last week, the government ordered certain businesses - including pubs, cinemas and theatres - to close.
The government is now extending this requirement to a further set of businesses and other venues, including:
All non-essential retail stores - this will include clothing and electronics stores; hair, beauty and nail salons; and outdoor and indoor markets, excluding food markets
Libraries, community centres, and youth centres
Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities such as bowling alleys, arcades and soft play facilities
Communal places within parks, such as playgrounds, sports courts and outdoor gyms
Places of worship, except for funerals attended by immediate families
Hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, campsites, caravan parks, and boarding houses for commercial/leisure use (excluding permanent residents and key workers).
3. STOPPING PUBLIC GATHERINGS
To make sure people are staying at home and apart from each other, the government is also stopping all public gatherings of more than two people.
There are only two exceptions to this rule:
where the gathering is of a group of people who live together - this means that a parent can, for example, take their children to the shops if there is no option to leave them at home.
where the gathering is essential for work purposes - but workers should be trying to minimise all meetings and other gatherings in the workplace.
In addition, the government is stopping social events, including weddings, baptisms and other religious ceremonies. This will exclude funerals, which can be attended by immediate family.
DELIVERING THESE NEW MEASURES
These measures will reduce our day to day contact with other people. They are a vital part of our efforts to reduce the rate of transmission of coronavirus.
Every citizen is instructed to comply with these new measures.
The government will therefore be ensuring the police and other relevant authorities have the powers to enforce them, including through fines and dispersing gatherings where people do not comply.
They will initially last for the three weeks from 23 March, at which point the government will look at them again and relax them if the evidence shows this is possible.


news--2020-03-24--Coronavirus: Tokyo Olympics postponed until 2021 over pandemic

The Tokyo Olympics has been postponed until 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The International Olympics Committee ( IOC ) made the decision after Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe asked members to postpone the Games due to measures taken to combat COVID-19 .
Their decision ended weeks of speculation over whether the Games would go ahead in July .
The IOC said the Games will be held `` not later than summer 2021 '' but will still be called the 2020 Tokyo Olympics .
`` In the present circumstances and based on the information provided by the World Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prime minister of Japan have concluded that the Games of the XXXII Olympiad in Tokyo must be rescheduled to a date beyond 2020 but not later than summer 2021 , to safeguard the health of the athletes , everybody involved in the Olympic Games and the international community , '' the IOC said in a statement .
Before the official announcement , Mr Abe said IOC president Thomas Bach agreed `` 100 % with him about postponing the games for a year '' .
The IOC had said it would make a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came under mounting pressure to postpone the Games now .
There had been growing calls for Tokyo 2020 to not take place as the world struggles with the coronavirus pandemic , despite the committee insisting over the past few weeks it would go ahead .
Mr Abe said holding the Games next year would be `` proof of a victory by human beings against the coronavirus infections '' .
Canada and Australia confirmed on Monday they would not be sending their athletes to Tokyo for their own safety , while the British and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a quick decision .
In the 124 years of the modern Olympics , Games have never been postponed , although they have been cancelled three times - in 1916 , 1940 and 1944 due to the two world wars .
The IOC added that the Olympic flame will stay in Japan `` to stand as a beacon of hope to the world during these troubled times '' and the flame would become a `` light at the end of the tunnel '' .
Sky Sports News correspondent Rebecca Williams said although the announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it will also come as a relief because it has become difficult to train .
Team GB swimmer Adam Peaty told her a few weeks ago that if Tokyo 2020 went ahead without crowds it would be `` really really tough '' and they would have to find ways to motivate themselves .
Andy Anson , chief executive of the British Olympic Association , said : `` It is with profound sadness that we accept the postponement , but in all consciousness it is the only decision we can support , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having on our nation , our communities and our families . ''
He said the pandemic has compromised athletes ' training and preparation `` irreparably '' and they need to stop thinking about Tokyo 2020 and `` be home and safe with their families '' .
Sally Munday , CEO of UK Sport , said athletes will not have to pay back any financial investment made in them and they are working to establish how best to support athletes so they are ready for when the Games do take place .
As of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Japan had been confirmed as having coronavirus , while 42 had died .

The Tokyo Olympics has been postponed until 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The International Olympics Committee (IOC) made the decision after Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe asked members to postpone the Games due to measures taken to combat COVID-19.
Their decision ended weeks of speculation over whether the Games would go ahead in July.
The IOC said the Games will be held "not later than summer 2021" but will still be called the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Image: The IOC had initially said it would make a decision in four weeks' time
"In the present circumstances and based on the information provided by the World Health Organisation today, the IOC president and the prime minister of Japan have concluded that the Games of the XXXII Olympiad in Tokyo must be rescheduled to a date beyond 2020 but not later than summer 2021, to safeguard the health of the athletes, everybody involved in the Olympic Games and the international community," the IOC said in a statement.
Before the official announcement, Mr Abe said IOC president Thomas Bach agreed "100% with him about postponing the games for a year".
The IOC had said it would make a decision in four weeks' time but came under mounting pressure to postpone the Games now.
Image: Team GB swimmer Adam Peaty said if the Olympics had gone ahead without crowds it would have been 'really really tough'
There had been growing calls for Tokyo 2020 to not take place as the world struggles with the coronavirus pandemic, despite the committee insisting over the past few weeks it would go ahead.
Mr Abe said holding the Games next year would be "proof of a victory by human beings against the coronavirus infections".
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Canada and Australia confirmed on Monday they would not be sending their athletes to Tokyo for their own safety, while the British and French governments urged the IOC to make a quick decision.
Image: Japan had its first coronavirus case in mid-February
In the 124 years of the modern Olympics, Games have never been postponed, although they have been cancelled three times - in 1916, 1940 and 1944 due to the two world wars.
The IOC added that the Olympic flame will stay in Japan "to stand as a beacon of hope to the world during these troubled times" and the flame would become a "light at the end of the tunnel".
Sky Sports News correspondent Rebecca Williams said although the announcement will be met with sadness by athletes, it will also come as a relief because it has become difficult to train.
Team GB swimmer Adam Peaty told her a few weeks ago that if Tokyo 2020 went ahead without crowds it would be "really really tough" and they would have to find ways to motivate themselves.
Image: Passengers on the Diamond Princess cruise ship were quarantined on the ship in Yokohama, Japan
Andy Anson, chief executive of the British Olympic Association, said: "It is with profound sadness that we accept the postponement, but in all consciousness it is the only decision we can support, in light of the devastating impact COVID-19 is having on our nation, our communities and our families."
He said the pandemic has compromised athletes' training and preparation "irreparably" and they need to stop thinking about Tokyo 2020 and "be home and safe with their families".
Sally Munday, CEO of UK Sport, said athletes will not have to pay back any financial investment made in them and they are working to establish how best to support athletes so they are ready for when the Games do take place.
As of the IOC's announcement, 1,140 people in Japan had been confirmed as having coronavirus, while 42 had died.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: US pharma giant behind COVID-19 drug urges caution

A leading executive of the US drugs giant behind a medicine being touted as a successful treatment for COVID-19 has urged caution over its efficacy .
During the last 24 hours Wall Street has been thrilled by a report that Gilead Sciences , the California-based US drug-maker , has come up with a successful treatment for coronavirus .
Shares of the company , best-known for its treatments for HIV and hepatitis B , shot up by 16 % at one point following a report that patients with COVID-19 who were treated with the drug , remdesivir , staged a rapid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported that patients at a University of Chicago hospital had received treatment using remdesivir .
It said that 125 patients with COVID-19 , including 113 with a severe form of the virus , took part in two 'phase 3 ' clinical trials .
Phase 3 trials take place towards the later stages of a drug 's development and is the last hurdle a product must get over before its maker approaches a regulator for approval .
The website reported that , although two died , most of the patients treated with remdesivir quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Hilary Hutton-Squire , general manager and vice president of Gilead Sciences in the UK and Ireland , told Sky News there was still a long way to go .
She said : `` We 're in the middle of an unprecedented global crisis and it 's clear that people would want to hear positive news , but we also have to be very balanced in our approach .
`` What we 've seen is a hospital talk about their experience… we really need to look at the results of that trial , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the moment , in totality before we can really reach conclusions about the efficacy and safety of remdesivir .
`` So our focus is to keep going with these very large clinical studies and find some answers for people as soon as we can . ''
She said around six large clinical studies were taking place globally involving thousands of patients , including more than 100 enrolled in the UK , with results expected towards the back end of April and the beginning of May .
She added : `` In the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can to ensure that if the results that come out are positive then we 're ready to get this drug to these patients globally as fast as we can and to make an impact in this pandemic . ''
Some healthcare and science professionals have urged scepticism concerning the trials because so few patients have , to date , been tested and because the trial results have not been subjected to peer review .
It has also been pointed out that , in the Chicago trials , there was no placebo involved against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measured .
In addition it was a so-called 'open label ' trial in which patients knew they were receiving the treatment and there has also been caution around the fact that none of the patients in the Chicago trial were on ventilators .
Acknowledging this , Ms Hutton-Squire said the UK trials would include patients with different `` levels of severity '' , including some patients on ventilators and some who had only just been hospitalised .
She went on : `` We have to be careful [ in our interpretation ] …it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things where we have a lot of pieces to the puzzle and we have to fit those together in coming weeks to really understand what we have here and what we need to do with that to help patients . ''
Ms Hutton-Squire , who has previously been involved in making treatments for hepatitis available through the NHS , said remdesivir had originally been devised to tackle coronavirus .
It was then repurposed to treat the Ebola virus , as it as it ravaged west Africa between 2013 and 2016 , before `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ahead of this particular outbreak , she said , the drug was being looked at as a treatment for a whole range of diseases including coronaviruses .
`` That 's why when we heard about this particular virus back in January , we thought it was really important to get going as fast as we could to understand what the role of remdesivir could be for COVID-19 . ''
She said Gilead was currently investing very heavily in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is a drug that would typically take up to a year to manufacture , end-to-end , we 've been trying to get that process down to about six months and we are working with literally hundreds of organisations globally to help us in sourcing raw materials…in order to try to be ready to treat as many patients as possible , as quickly as possible , if the results coming through from the trials are positive . ''
But she insisted this gearing-up in manufacturing capability should not be taken as a sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a positive result .
She said : `` It 's a sense of responsibility , to be honest .
`` When we looked at this back in January , we knew that this was going to be one of the most promising drugs that we looked at , because it had previous promising data in SARS ( severe acute respiratory syndrome ) and MERS ( Middle East Respiratory Syndrome ) .
`` We had reason to…go as fast as we could and , because of the lead time , there would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of clinical research and then starting doing manufacturing further down the line .
`` We have to do the thing in parallel , and to do it at risk , to have the potential impact that the drug could have if it works .
`` So we had to work as fast as we can . ''
She said she was talking closely to the UK government and praised the regulator , the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) , for its `` pragmatism and speed of movement '' in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way .
The company has promised to make 1.5 million phials of the finished product available to healthcare agencies around the world should the product launch successfully .

A leading executive of the US drugs giant behind a medicine being touted as a successful treatment for COVID-19 has urged caution over its efficacy.
During the last 24 hours Wall Street has been thrilled by a report that Gilead Sciences, the California-based US drug-maker, has come up with a successful treatment for coronavirus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:53 Moving accounts of lockdown from around world
Shares of the company, best-known for its treatments for HIV and hepatitis B, shot up by 16% at one point following a report that patients with COVID-19 who were treated with the drug, remdesivir, staged a rapid recovery.
The medical news website Stat reported that patients at a University of Chicago hospital had received treatment using remdesivir.
It said that 125 patients with COVID-19, including 113 with a severe form of the virus, took part in two 'phase 3' clinical trials.
Phase 3 trials take place towards the later stages of a drug's development and is the last hurdle a product must get over before its maker approaches a regulator for approval.
The website reported that, although two died, most of the patients treated with remdesivir quickly staged a recovery and were discharged.
But Hilary Hutton-Squire, general manager and vice president of Gilead Sciences in the UK and Ireland, told Sky News there was still a long way to go.
She said: "We're in the middle of an unprecedented global crisis and it's clear that people would want to hear positive news, but we also have to be very balanced in our approach.
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"What we've seen is a hospital talk about their experience… we really need to look at the results of that trial, and indeed other trials that are ongoing at the moment, in totality before we can really reach conclusions about the efficacy and safety of remdesivir.
"So our focus is to keep going with these very large clinical studies and find some answers for people as soon as we can."
She said around six large clinical studies were taking place globally involving thousands of patients, including more than 100 enrolled in the UK, with results expected towards the back end of April and the beginning of May.
She added: "In the meantime, we're doing everything we can to ensure that if the results that come out are positive then we're ready to get this drug to these patients globally as fast as we can and to make an impact in this pandemic."
Some healthcare and science professionals have urged scepticism concerning the trials because so few patients have, to date, been tested and because the trial results have not been subjected to peer review.
It has also been pointed out that, in the Chicago trials, there was no placebo involved against which the efficacy of remdesivir could be measured.
In addition it was a so-called 'open label' trial in which patients knew they were receiving the treatment and there has also been caution around the fact that none of the patients in the Chicago trial were on ventilators.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 How to practise social distancing
Acknowledging this, Ms Hutton-Squire said the UK trials would include patients with different "levels of severity", including some patients on ventilators and some who had only just been hospitalised.
She went on: "We have to be careful [in our interpretation]…it's going to be one of those things where we have a lot of pieces to the puzzle and we have to fit those together in coming weeks to really understand what we have here and what we need to do with that to help patients."
Ms Hutton-Squire, who has previously been involved in making treatments for hepatitis available through the NHS, said remdesivir had originally been devised to tackle coronavirus.
It was then repurposed to treat the Ebola virus, as it as it ravaged west Africa between 2013 and 2016, before "coming full circle".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ahead of this particular outbreak, she said, the drug was being looked at as a treatment for a whole range of diseases including coronaviruses.
"That's why when we heard about this particular virus back in January, we thought it was really important to get going as fast as we could to understand what the role of remdesivir could be for COVID-19."
She said Gilead was currently investing very heavily in manufacturing.
Ms Hutton-Squire added: "This is a drug that would typically take up to a year to manufacture, end-to-end, we've been trying to get that process down to about six months and we are working with literally hundreds of organisations globally to help us in sourcing raw materials…in order to try to be ready to treat as many patients as possible, as quickly as possible, if the results coming through from the trials are positive."
But she insisted this gearing-up in manufacturing capability should not be taken as a sign that the trials would definitely come back with a positive result.
She said: "It's a sense of responsibility, to be honest.
"When we looked at this back in January, we knew that this was going to be one of the most promising drugs that we looked at, because it had previous promising data in SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome).
"We had reason to…go as fast as we could and, because of the lead time, there would be no point in us doing a load of clinical research and then starting doing manufacturing further down the line.
"We have to do the thing in parallel, and to do it at risk, to have the potential impact that the drug could have if it works.
"So we had to work as fast as we can."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Lockdown: The dos and don'ts
She said she was talking closely to the UK government and praised the regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), for its "pragmatism and speed of movement" in helping Gilead launch the studies now under way.
The company has promised to make 1.5 million phials of the finished product available to healthcare agencies around the world should the product launch successfully.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: Woman, 90, smashes fundraising target for NHS by 'climbing a mountain' on stairs

As Captain Tom Moore , 99 , continues to receive donations for his record-breaking garden walk , another nonagenarian has smashed her own fundraising target to help the NHS .
On Thursday , Mr Moore completed his challenge of walking 25m lengths of his family 's garden in Bedfordshire to mark his 100th birthday on 30 April .
The war veteran originally set out to raise £1,000 - but donations have now passed £20m .
A spokesperson for the prime minister has said he will `` certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knighted received more than 500,000 signatures .
Now , Margaret Payne , 90 , has surpassed her hopes of hitting £10,000 as she attempts to climb the equivalent of a Scottish mountain on her stairs .
She says she started her challenge on Easter Sunday and thinks it will take her several weeks to complete .
In a post on her fundraising page , she said : `` I am planning to climb the equivalent of Suilven , 2,398 feet .
`` That 's 17 stairs , a flight being eight and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total is my challenge .
`` I think it is going to take me about two months ! ''
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Margaret 's revealed she first climbed Suilven in 1944 during World War Two , when she was 15 , with her sister Elizabeth .
She says she wants to raise money for the NHS and Highland Hospice in return for their support over the years , including for her husband Jim , who died on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I have now lived in the Highlands for over 40 years and I would like to raise funds to support the NHS in particular at this difficult time and especially in return for the extraordinary support we have received personally at Ardvar .
`` In addition , we are giving some support to the Highland Hospice . ''
As of Friday afternoon , Margaret has raised almost £90,000 .

As Captain Tom Moore, 99, continues to receive donations for his record-breaking garden walk, another nonagenarian has smashed her own fundraising target to help the NHS.
On Thursday, Mr Moore completed his challenge of walking 25m lengths of his family's garden in Bedfordshire to mark his 100th birthday on 30 April.
The war veteran originally set out to raise £1,000 - but donations have now passed £20m.
Image: Margaret Payne is raising money for the NHS and the Highland Hospice. Pic: Margaret Payne/Virgin Money Giving
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:16 War veteran praised as 'beacon of hope'
A spokesperson for the prime minister has said he will "certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts", after a petition for him to be knighted received more than 500,000 signatures.
Now, Margaret Payne, 90, has surpassed her hopes of hitting £10,000 as she attempts to climb the equivalent of a Scottish mountain on her stairs.
She says she started her challenge on Easter Sunday and thinks it will take her several weeks to complete.
In a post on her fundraising page, she said: "I am planning to climb the equivalent of Suilven, 2,398 feet.
"That's 17 stairs, a flight being eight and a half feet each time - 282 times total is my challenge.
"I think it is going to take me about two months!"
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:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Margaret's revealed she first climbed Suilven in 1944 during World War Two, when she was 15, with her sister Elizabeth.
She says she wants to raise money for the NHS and Highland Hospice in return for their support over the years, including for her husband Jim, who died on Christmas Day last year.
Image: Captain Tom Moore will be 100 on 30 April
She added: "I have now lived in the Highlands for over 40 years and I would like to raise funds to support the NHS in particular at this difficult time and especially in return for the extraordinary support we have received personally at Ardvar.
"In addition, we are giving some support to the Highland Hospice."
As of Friday afternoon, Margaret has raised almost £90,000.


news--2020-04-17--Tobacco giant BAT fails to stub out anger over chief's pay rise

British American Tobacco ( BAT ) is facing an investor backlash by pressing ahead with a 9.5 % pay rise for its chief executive even as many large companies cut top salaries in response to the coronavirus pandemic .
Sky News has learnt that Institutional Shareholder Services ( ISS ) , an influential proxy adviser , is recommending that investors oppose BAT 's remuneration report at its annual meeting later this month .
In a report circulated to clients , ISS said support for the Lucky Strike-owner 's pay report was not justified because of the increase in CEO Jack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The timing of BAT 's AGM makes the pay rise for Mr Bowles contentious , given that many of its FTSE-100 peers have said the COVID-19 outbreak will see their chief executives take temporary pay cuts .
Some , including the boss of BT Group , have said they will forfeit their salary for six months .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker BAT , which has a market value of nearly £68bn , saw its shares slip earlier this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the subject of a US criminal inquiry into sanctions-busting .
A BAT spokesman said on Friday : `` Jack Bowles was appointed on a package that was 21 % lower than that of his predecessor .
`` Following the 9.5 % pay increase for Jack following a very strong first year in role , his total fixed remuneration is still 15 % lower than his predecessor .
The company said this fact had been `` acknowledged by ISS '' and that it noted that its remuneration report had won the backing of Glass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the voting advisory arm of the Investment Association , is understood to have given BAT 's pay report an 'amber-top ' alert , meaning that it is not without concern for shareholders .

British American Tobacco (BAT) is facing an investor backlash by pressing ahead with a 9.5% pay rise for its chief executive even as many large companies cut top salaries in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Sky News has learnt that Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS), an influential proxy adviser, is recommending that investors oppose BAT's remuneration report at its annual meeting later this month.
Image: British American Tobacco has a market value of nearly £68bn
In a report circulated to clients, ISS said support for the Lucky Strike-owner's pay report was not justified because of the increase in CEO Jack Bowles' salary from £1.175m to £1.287m.
The timing of BAT's AGM makes the pay rise for Mr Bowles contentious, given that many of its FTSE-100 peers have said the COVID-19 outbreak will see their chief executives take temporary pay cuts.
Some, including the boss of BT Group, have said they will forfeit their salary for six months.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
BAT, which has a market value of nearly £68bn, saw its shares slip earlier this week when The Times revealed that it was the subject of a US criminal inquiry into sanctions-busting.
A BAT spokesman said on Friday: "Jack Bowles was appointed on a package that was 21% lower than that of his predecessor.
"Following the 9.5% pay increase for Jack following a very strong first year in role, his total fixed remuneration is still 15% lower than his predecessor.
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The company said this fact had been "acknowledged by ISS" and that it noted that its remuneration report had won the backing of Glass Lewis, another proxy adviser.
IVIS, the voting advisory arm of the Investment Association, is understood to have given BAT's pay report an 'amber-top' alert, meaning that it is not without concern for shareholders.


news--2020-04-17--New 'big six' energy player Ovo hires former Burberry finance chief

A former boss of Harvey Nichols is joining the latest entrant to the group of giant gas and electricity suppliers which dominate the UK 's energy retail industry .
Sky News has learnt that Stacey Cartwright , whose CV also included a stint as finance chief at Burberry , is to become chairman of a new board of directors being set up by Ovo Energy .
The move will come months after Ovo completed the £500m takeover of SSE 's residential energy business , catapulting it into the ranks of the industry 's biggest players .
Industry sources said on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board being created for Ovo 's retail division at a time when the treatment of customers is expected to come under particular scrutiny from regulators amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The former Harvey Nichols chief now sits on the board of the Football Association , the estate agent Savills and Genpact , a professional services firm focused on digital transformation .
Her appointment , which will take effect in June , does not affect the position of Stephen Murphy , who remains chair of the OVO Group board .
Some suppliers - not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the government because of an anticipated surge in payment defaults .
Ovo 's takeover of the SSE business saw its customer base soar to more than 5m households , bolstering founder Stephen Fitzpatrick 's ambition of using industry-leading technology to power large volumes of customers in Britain and abroad .
As well as its retail business , Ovo owns Kaluza , an intelligent grid business that aims to digitally transform electricity distribution .
Mr Fitzpatrick , who founded Ovo a decade ago and had a brief stint as a Formula One team-owner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goals reflecting the growing environmental pressure on the energy industry .
Last year , he sold a 20 % stake in Ovo to Mitsubishi , the Japanese industrial titan , for £220m , while Mayfair Equity Partners also owns a minority stake .
Mr Fitzpatrick has spoken of his desire to create an energy business which can endure for many decades , and of his expectation of extensive and rapid consolidation across the industry .
The company 's results for 2018 - the last year for which numbers are available - showed an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consecutive years in the black , which insiders attributed to the company 's substantial investment in new technology .

A former boss of Harvey Nichols is joining the latest entrant to the group of giant gas and electricity suppliers which dominate the UK's energy retail industry.
Sky News has learnt that Stacey Cartwright, whose CV also included a stint as finance chief at Burberry, is to become chairman of a new board of directors being set up by Ovo Energy.
The move will come months after Ovo completed the £500m takeover of SSE's residential energy business, catapulting it into the ranks of the industry's biggest players.
Industry sources said on Friday that Ms Cartwright would head a board being created for Ovo's retail division at a time when the treatment of customers is expected to come under particular scrutiny from regulators amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The former Harvey Nichols chief now sits on the board of the Football Association, the estate agent Savills and Genpact, a professional services firm focused on digital transformation.
Her appointment, which will take effect in June, does not affect the position of Stephen Murphy, who remains chair of the OVO Group board.
Some suppliers - not including Ovo - have sought financial support from the government because of an anticipated surge in payment defaults.
Ovo's takeover of the SSE business saw its customer base soar to more than 5m households, bolstering founder Stephen Fitzpatrick's ambition of using industry-leading technology to power large volumes of customers in Britain and abroad.
As well as its retail business, Ovo owns Kaluza, an intelligent grid business that aims to digitally transform electricity distribution.
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Mr Fitzpatrick, who founded Ovo a decade ago and had a brief stint as a Formula One team-owner, has set a string of ambitious goals reflecting the growing environmental pressure on the energy industry.
Last year, he sold a 20% stake in Ovo to Mitsubishi, the Japanese industrial titan, for £220m, while Mayfair Equity Partners also owns a minority stake.
Mr Fitzpatrick has spoken of his desire to create an energy business which can endure for many decades, and of his expectation of extensive and rapid consolidation across the industry.
The company's results for 2018 - the last year for which numbers are available - showed an operating loss of £51m, following three consecutive years in the black, which insiders attributed to the company's substantial investment in new technology.
Ovo declined to comment on Friday.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: Taylor Swift cancels all performances for the rest of 2020

Taylor Swift has cancelled all her live performances for the rest of the year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic .
The Shake It Off singer was due to travel around Europe , the US and and South America to promote her new album , Lover , before COVID-19 put a stop to her plans .
Swift had also been due to headline Glastonbury in June , as well as a British Summer Time concert in London 's Hyde Park , but both events have been cancelled due to the coronavirus .
Writing on Twitter , the megastar said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wo n't be able to see you guys in concert this year , but I know this is the right decision .
`` Please , please stay healthy and safe .
I 'll see you on stage as soon as I can but right now what 's important is committing to this quarantine , for the sake of all of us . ''
According to Swift 's management , her planned performances in the US and Brazil will be rescheduled for 2021 and she will announce new dates soon .
Tickets for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dates , while those holding tickets for her Lover Fest shows on May 1 will be able to obtain refunds .
Swift 's performances have become the latest live events to be cancelled as a result of the ongoing global pandemic .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mass gatherings have been banned in most countries around the world , with big name events such as Coachella and Glastonbury already being shelved for the year .
Huge tours such as those featuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cabello have also been cancelled or postponed , with the live music industry likely to be hit by billions of pounds .

Taylor Swift has cancelled all her live performances for the rest of the year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Shake It Off singer was due to travel around Europe, the US and and South America to promote her new album, Lover, before COVID-19 put a stop to her plans.
Swift had also been due to headline Glastonbury in June, as well as a British Summer Time concert in London's Hyde Park, but both events have been cancelled due to the coronavirus.
Image: Swift was due to headline Glastonbury
Writing on Twitter, the megastar said: "I'm so sad I won't be able to see you guys in concert this year, but I know this is the right decision.
"Please, please stay healthy and safe. I'll see you on stage as soon as I can but right now what's important is committing to this quarantine, for the sake of all of us."
According to Swift's management, her planned performances in the US and Brazil will be rescheduled for 2021 and she will announce new dates soon.
Tickets for those shows will be valid for the new dates, while those holding tickets for her Lover Fest shows on May 1 will be able to obtain refunds.
Swift's performances have become the latest live events to be cancelled as a result of the ongoing global pandemic.
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:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
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Mass gatherings have been banned in most countries around the world, with big name events such as Coachella and Glastonbury already being shelved for the year.
Huge tours such as those featuring Elton John, Pearl Jam and Camilla Cabello have also been cancelled or postponed, with the live music industry likely to be hit by billions of pounds.


news--2020-04-17--All In Challenge: Act with DiCaprio, hang with Bieber or present with Ellen

If you 've ever dreamed of acting alongside Leonardo DiCaprio or being serenaded by Justin Bieber in your front room , now could be your moment .
A host of celebrities are offering the chance to get up close and personal by donating to the US coronavirus appeal , the All In Challenge .
Those donating to the fund will be entered into a prize draw to be in with the chance of winning a money-can't-buy experience .
The brainchild of the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team co-owner Michael Rubin , the fund has raised $ 5.6m ( £4.4m ) in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DiCaprio and Robert De Niro have offered a walk-on role on their next film , Martin Scorsese 's Killers Of The Flower Moon .
Sharing the news on social media , DiCaprio and De Niro ask fans : `` Have you ever wondered what it 's like to work with Martin Scorsese , De Niro & myself ?
Here 's your chance . ''
No stranger to fundraising , DiCaprio recently launched America 's Food Fund , to help those in struggling communities around the United States .
Justin Bieber says he will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give them a one-to-one performance of his 2009 hit One Less Lonely Girl - once lockdown is over of course .
Chat show hosts Ellen DeGeneres and Ryan Seacrest are both offering the chance to co-host on their respective shows .
Matthew McConaughey has invited a donor to join him in his private box to watch an American football game in Texas .
Kevin Hart , who has been recovering from a recent car accident , is offering a speaking role on his next movie .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify , Spreaker And , as an added extra , rapper Meek Mill is auctioning his 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom , with bidding kicking off at $ 200,000 ( £160,000 ) .
Rubin says his inspiration to start the fund was to feed as many people across American as possible , at the same time as bringing people from the sports and entertainment world together .
The All In Challenge aims to raise $ 100m ( £80m ) for four US charities : Feeding America , Meals On Wheels , World Central Kitchen and @ @ @ @

If you've ever dreamed of acting alongside Leonardo DiCaprio or being serenaded by Justin Bieber in your front room, now could be your moment.
A host of celebrities are offering the chance to get up close and personal by donating to the US coronavirus appeal, the All In Challenge.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Those donating to the fund will be entered into a prize draw to be in with the chance of winning a money-can't-buy experience.
The brainchild of the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team co-owner Michael Rubin, the fund has raised $5.6m (£4.4m) in just three days.
Hollywood stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro have offered a walk-on role on their next film, Martin Scorsese's Killers Of The Flower Moon.
Sharing the news on social media, DiCaprio and De Niro ask fans: "Have you ever wondered what it's like to work with Martin Scorsese, De Niro & myself? Here's your chance."
Image: Ellen DeGeneres and wife, actress Portia De Rossi
No stranger to fundraising, DiCaprio recently launched America's Food Fund, to help those in struggling communities around the United States.
Justin Bieber says he will fly to a fan's house and give them a one-to-one performance of his 2009 hit One Less Lonely Girl - once lockdown is over of course.
Chat show hosts Ellen DeGeneres and Ryan Seacrest are both offering the chance to co-host on their respective shows.
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Matthew McConaughey has invited a donor to join him in his private box to watch an American football game in Texas.
Kevin Hart, who has been recovering from a recent car accident, is offering a speaking role on his next movie.
Bill Murray will give a lucky winner a round of golf.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
And, as an added extra, rapper Meek Mill is auctioning his 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom, with bidding kicking off at $200,000 (£160,000).
Rubin says his inspiration to start the fund was to feed as many people across American as possible, at the same time as bringing people from the sports and entertainment world together.
The All In Challenge aims to raise $100m (£80m) for four US charities: Feeding America, Meals On Wheels, World Central Kitchen and No Kid Hungry.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson to 'recognise' hero Captain Tom Moore after he raises £18m for NHS

Captain Tom Moore , the Second World War veteran who has raised more than £18m for the NHS , will receive recognition for his `` heroic efforts '' from the prime minister , Downing Street has said .
The 99-year-old originally aimed to raise £1,000 through his JustGiving page to help the fight against the coronavirus pandemic - but his actions have now led to a petition for him to be knighted after donations rocketed .
Responding online to the Change.org petition , Number 10 said Boris Johnson `` will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received more than 500,000 signatures .
Cpt Moore has been walking 25m lengths of his family 's garden in Bedfordshire and originally set himself the target of 100 laps , reaching his goal on Thursday .
He has vowed to carry on for as long as the donations keep coming in .
The challenge to walk 100 laps was to mark his upcoming 100th birthday on 30 April .
A Number 10 spokesman wrote on Change.org : `` Tom has captured the heart of the nation with his heroic efforts and raised an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS staff .
`` He has embodied the spirit of the whole country in doing their bit for the battle against coronavirus to support the NHS and save lives .
`` From his military contributions to his support for NHS staff , Tom has demonstrated a lifetime of bravery and compassion .
`` The PM will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts . ''
`` He really truly is a British champion and I think has given people a sense of hope , that somebody who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so much can take such a positive attitude . ''
Mr Shapps said he would not want to `` pre-empt '' the Queen 's New Year 's Honours List but said `` it is quite clear that this gentleman has been almost the salvation of the nation in these difficult times . ''
The Duke of Cambridge and Duchess of Cornwall have written to Cpt Moore and William has also made an undisclosed donation to the appeal , Kensington Palace said .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised for NHS Charities Together will pay for care packs for staff , electronic devices for patients to keep in touch with family members and support groups for those recovering from coronavirus .
Cpt Moore has achieved the highest total raised by an individual on JustGiving .
Stephen Sutton MBE , a blogger and charity activist , raised £5m for the Teenage Cancer Trust before his death in 2014 .

Captain Tom Moore, the Second World War veteran who has raised more than £18m for the NHS, will receive recognition for his "heroic efforts" from the prime minister, Downing Street has said.
The 99-year-old originally aimed to raise £1,000 through his JustGiving page to help the fight against the coronavirus pandemic - but his actions have now led to a petition for him to be knighted after donations rocketed.
Responding online to the Change.org petition, Number 10 said Boris Johnson "will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts" after the online campaign received more than 500,000 signatures.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:37 'Sir Thomas Moore sounds quite good'
Cpt Moore has been walking 25m lengths of his family's garden in Bedfordshire and originally set himself the target of 100 laps, reaching his goal on Thursday.
He has vowed to carry on for as long as the donations keep coming in. The challenge to walk 100 laps was to mark his upcoming 100th birthday on 30 April.
A Number 10 spokesman wrote on Change.org: "Tom has captured the heart of the nation with his heroic efforts and raised an incredible amount of money for hard working NHS staff.
Image: Cpt Tom Moore, with (L-R) grandson Benji, daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore and granddaughter Georgia
"He has embodied the spirit of the whole country in doing their bit for the battle against coronavirus to support the NHS and save lives.
"From his military contributions to his support for NHS staff, Tom has demonstrated a lifetime of bravery and compassion.
"The PM will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts."
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Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News Cpt Moore is a "tremendous gentleman".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:01 Britain applauds its NHS heroes
"He really truly is a British champion and I think has given people a sense of hope, that somebody who has seen so much, and been through so much can take such a positive attitude."
Mr Shapps said he would not want to "pre-empt" the Queen's New Year's Honours List but said "it is quite clear that this gentleman has been almost the salvation of the nation in these difficult times."
The Duke of Cambridge and Duchess of Cornwall have written to Cpt Moore and William has also made an undisclosed donation to the appeal, Kensington Palace said.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Money raised for NHS Charities Together will pay for care packs for staff, electronic devices for patients to keep in touch with family members and support groups for those recovering from coronavirus.
Cpt Moore has achieved the highest total raised by an individual on JustGiving.
Stephen Sutton MBE, a blogger and charity activist, raised £5m for the Teenage Cancer Trust before his death in 2014.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: China's economy shrinks for first time in decades

China 's economy shrank for the first time in decades in the first quarter , as the coronavirus outbreak brought production and spending to a standstill .
Official data shows the world 's second largest economy suffered a sharp downturn of 6.8 % between January and March , when factories , shops and travel were shut down in a bid to contain the COVID-19 infection .
Although slightly larger than the decline forecast by analysts it was broadly in line with expectations and markets were up in Asia , which seemed more focused on Donald Trump 's plan to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus crisis .
China , where the outbreak originated , declared victory over the virus in early March and started reopening factories and offices even as other countries tightened controls .
But analysts say Beijing faces an uphill battle to revive growth as the global pandemic devastates demand from major trading partners and dampens domestic consumption .
Lu Zhengwei , Shanghai-based chief economist at Industrial Bank , said the latest Gross Domestic Product ( GDP ) data reflected `` the toll from the economic standstill when the whole society was on lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next phase , the lack of overall demand is of concern .
`` Domestic demand has not fully recovered as consumption related to social gatherings is still banned while external demand is likely to be hammered as pandemic spreads . ''
`` I do n't think we will see a real recovery until the fourth quarter or the end of the year , '' added economist Zhu Zhenxin at the Rushi Finance Institute in Beijing .
Retail spending , which supplied 80 % of China 's economic growth last year , plummeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from a year earlier , below most forecasts .
This has been slow to recover despite government moves to encourage spending by giving out shopping vouchers in some cities and launching a media campaign showing officials eating in restaurants .
Many householders are holding onto their cash because of the fear of possible job losses , while others remain reluctant to go shopping as health concerns persist .
The Beijing regime has urged companies to keep paying employees and avoid redundancies , but a wave of bankruptcies has flooded the job market , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exports fell by 6.6 % in March from a year ago .
Forecasters are warning exporters likely face another downturn as the pandemic sees much of the rest of the world slip into recession .
Forecasters including Oxford Economics , UBS and Nomura say China will have little to no economic growth this year .
It comes as it emerged that the number of deaths in Wuhan , the Chinese city which was the initial epicentre of the outbreak , had been revised up by 1,290 - a 50 % increase .
Beijing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the virus outbreak in Wuhan late last year and under-reported case numbers , worsening the impact on the US and other countries .
More than two million cases of the disease have now been reported across the world and dozens of countries are in lockdown .
More than 137,000 people have died globally , according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University , which is tracking the outbreak .

China's economy shrank for the first time in decades in the first quarter, as the coronavirus outbreak brought production and spending to a standstill.
Official data shows the world's second largest economy suffered a sharp downturn of 6.8% between January and March, when factories, shops and travel were shut down in a bid to contain the COVID-19 infection.
Although slightly larger than the decline forecast by analysts it was broadly in line with expectations and markets were up in Asia, which seemed more focused on Donald Trump's plan to reopen the US economy in the face of the coronavirus crisis.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:34 Timelapse shows busy Wuhan as lockdown lifts
China, where the outbreak originated, declared victory over the virus in early March and started reopening factories and offices even as other countries tightened controls.
But analysts say Beijing faces an uphill battle to revive growth as the global pandemic devastates demand from major trading partners and dampens domestic consumption.
Lu Zhengwei, Shanghai-based chief economist at Industrial Bank, said the latest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data reflected "the toll from the economic standstill when the whole society was on lockdown".
He added: "Over the next phase, the lack of overall demand is of concern.
"Domestic demand has not fully recovered as consumption related to social gatherings is still banned while external demand is likely to be hammered as pandemic spreads."
"I don't think we will see a real recovery until the fourth quarter or the end of the year," added economist Zhu Zhenxin at the Rushi Finance Institute in Beijing.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 'We're past the peak and starting life again'
Retail spending, which supplied 80% of China's economic growth last year, plummeted by 19% in the first quarter from a year earlier, below most forecasts.
This has been slow to recover despite government moves to encourage spending by giving out shopping vouchers in some cities and launching a media campaign showing officials eating in restaurants.
Many householders are holding onto their cash because of the fear of possible job losses, while others remain reluctant to go shopping as health concerns persist.
The Beijing regime has urged companies to keep paying employees and avoid redundancies, but a wave of bankruptcies has flooded the job market, fuelling economic jitters.
Data also shows exports fell by 6.6% in March from a year ago. Forecasters are warning exporters likely face another downturn as the pandemic sees much of the rest of the world slip into recession.
Forecasters including Oxford Economics, UBS and Nomura say China will have little to no economic growth this year.
It comes as it emerged that the number of deaths in Wuhan, the Chinese city which was the initial epicentre of the outbreak, had been revised up by 1,290 - a 50% increase.
Beijing has strongly denied claims it delayed reporting on the virus outbreak in Wuhan late last year and under-reported case numbers, worsening the impact on the US and other countries.
More than two million cases of the disease have now been reported across the world and dozens of countries are in lockdown.
More than 137,000 people have died globally, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the outbreak.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: War veteran Tom Moore, 99, raises more than £20m for NHS

99-year-old war veteran , Captain Tom Moore , has now raised over £20m for the NHS after walking 100 laps of his garden .
The figure is 20,000 times more than his original target of £1,000 .
After completing 100 laps on Thursday , he plans to keep doing more as long as people continue donating to his appeal .
The Second World War veteran started doing 25m lengths of his family 's garden in Bedfordshire just over a week ago and reached his goal well before his target of his 100th birthday on 30 April .
And his actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him to be knighted after donations rocketed .
Responding online to the Change.org petition , Number 10 said Prime Minister Boris Johnson `` will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts '' after the online campaign received more than 500,000 signatures .
`` He has embodied the spirit of the whole country in doing their bit for the battle against coronavirus to support the NHS and save lives .
`` From his military contributions to his support for NHS staff , Tom has demonstrated a lifetime of bravery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts . ''
`` He really truly is a British champion and I think he has given people a sense of hope , that somebody who has seen so much , and been through so much can take such a positive attitude . ''
Mr Shapps said he would not want to `` pre-empt '' the Queen 's New Year 's Honours List but said `` it is quite clear that this gentleman has been almost the salvation of the nation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The Duke of Cambridge and Duchess of Cornwall have written to Cpt Moore and William has also made an undisclosed donation to the appeal , Kensington Palace said .
The 99-year-old is raising money for NHS Charities Together which supports health workers and volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients .
The cash will pay for care packs for staff , electronic devices for patients to keep in touch with family members and support groups for those recovering from coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total raised by an individual on JustGiving .
Originally from Keighley in West Yorkshire , he trained as a civil engineer before enlisting in the Army for the Second World War , rising to captain and serving in India and Burma .

99-year-old war veteran, Captain Tom Moore, has now raised over £20m for the NHS after walking 100 laps of his garden.
The figure is 20,000 times more than his original target of £1,000.
After completing 100 laps on Thursday, he plans to keep doing more as long as people continue donating to his appeal.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:16 War veteran praised as 'beacon of hope'
The Second World War veteran started doing 25m lengths of his family's garden in Bedfordshire just over a week ago and reached his goal well before his target of his 100th birthday on 30 April.
And his actions have now led to a petition for him to be knighted after donations rocketed.
Responding online to the Change.org petition, Number 10 said Prime Minister Boris Johnson "will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts" after the online campaign received more than 500,000 signatures.
"He has embodied the spirit of the whole country in doing their bit for the battle against coronavirus to support the NHS and save lives.
"From his military contributions to his support for NHS staff, Tom has demonstrated a lifetime of bravery and compassion.
"The PM will certainly be looking at ways to recognise Tom for his heroic efforts."
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Image: Captain Moore with members of his family
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News Cpt Moore is a "tremendous gentleman".
"He really truly is a British champion and I think he has given people a sense of hope, that somebody who has seen so much, and been through so much can take such a positive attitude."
Mr Shapps said he would not want to "pre-empt" the Queen's New Year's Honours List but said "it is quite clear that this gentleman has been almost the salvation of the nation in these difficult times."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The Duke of Cambridge and Duchess of Cornwall have written to Cpt Moore and William has also made an undisclosed donation to the appeal, Kensington Palace said.
The 99-year-old is raising money for NHS Charities Together which supports health workers and volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients.
The cash will pay for care packs for staff, electronic devices for patients to keep in touch with family members and support groups for those recovering from coronavirus.
Cpt Moore has achieved the highest total raised by an individual on JustGiving.
Originally from Keighley in West Yorkshire, he trained as a civil engineer before enlisting in the Army for the Second World War, rising to captain and serving in India and Burma.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: Hospital goes 'above and beyond' so boy can mark end of cancer treatment with family

A three-year-old boy who was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year has been able to mark the end of his treatment with his family watching after a hospital moved its bell outside .
Children get to ring the bell once they 've finished their treatment , and it 's a moment all families dream of .
But due to the COVID-19 pandemic , just one visitor is allowed at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Wirral , Merseyside - so Brodie Halliday 's father and sister thought they might not be able to share his milestone .
But Brodie 's mother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beyond '' for her son , and that they `` really made a fuss of him during his treatment '' .
Kirstie Halliday , 35 , said : `` When I chatted to the team about what we could do to make sure as many people saw him ring the bell as possible , they knew just what to do . ''
Staff unscrewed the bell from its usual place and set it up outside the hospital .
It meant Brodie 's dad , Jamie , 42 , and sister Indiana , seven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bell , marking the end of his 35 rounds of radiotherapy .
Paediatric radiographer , Sarah Stead , said they `` were n't going to let the coronavirus ruin Brodie 's big moment with his family '' .
`` As patient safety is our top priority , having visitors into the hospital is n't possible at the moment , but the team and I made sure Brodie could safely have his celebratory moment , '' she said .
`` Patients and families dealing with cancer already have enough on their plates .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go that extra mile to ensure they 're given extra special care and compassion during these extenuating circumstances . ''
`` He had quite a socially distant crowd in the end , of fellow patients and Clatterbridge staff cheering him on . ''
Brodie and his family moved 250 miles from their home in Fountainhall in the Scottish Borders so he could have the treatment .
Mrs Halliday explained that `` with everything going on , it 's been quite a daunting experience .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker '' Having Brodie in hospital during a pandemic was also incredibly worrying .
`` But the team from the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre have gone above and beyond for Brodie , especially during a really challenging time for all the staff and patients .
`` We 're really grateful that the team found a way for us to celebrate this special moment with Brodie . ''

A three-year-old boy who was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year has been able to mark the end of his treatment with his family watching after a hospital moved its bell outside.
Children get to ring the bell once they've finished their treatment, and it's a moment all families dream of.
But due to the COVID-19 pandemic, just one visitor is allowed at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Wirral, Merseyside - so Brodie Halliday's father and sister thought they might not be able to share his milestone.
But Brodie's mother says the hospital went "above and beyond" for her son, and that they "really made a fuss of him during his treatment".
Image: Brodie was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year
Kirstie Halliday, 35, said: "When I chatted to the team about what we could do to make sure as many people saw him ring the bell as possible, they knew just what to do."
Staff unscrewed the bell from its usual place and set it up outside the hospital.
Image: Brodie Halliday let his sister ring the bell too
It meant Brodie's dad, Jamie, 42, and sister Indiana, seven, were able to watch Brodie ring the bell, marking the end of his 35 rounds of radiotherapy.
Paediatric radiographer, Sarah Stead, said they "weren't going to let the coronavirus ruin Brodie's big moment with his family".
"As patient safety is our top priority, having visitors into the hospital isn't possible at the moment, but the team and I made sure Brodie could safely have his celebratory moment," she said.
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"Patients and families dealing with cancer already have enough on their plates.
"It's part of our job to go that extra mile to ensure they're given extra special care and compassion during these extenuating circumstances."
Image: Brodie Halliday with his parents and sister Indiana
"He had quite a socially distant crowd in the end, of fellow patients and Clatterbridge staff cheering him on."
Brodie and his family moved 250 miles from their home in Fountainhall in the Scottish Borders so he could have the treatment.
Mrs Halliday explained that "with everything going on, it's been quite a daunting experience.
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"Having Brodie in hospital during a pandemic was also incredibly worrying.
"But the team from the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre have gone above and beyond for Brodie, especially during a really challenging time for all the staff and patients.
"We're really grateful that the team found a way for us to celebrate this special moment with Brodie."


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: William and Kate voice ad highlighting where to find mental health help

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have voiced a new advert , highlighting where people can find mental health support during the coronavirus crisis .
The short film , which will be broadcast on television from Monday , promotes Public Health England 's Every Mind Matters website .
The online platform , which was launched last year , now includes new advice focused on how people can look after their mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker It has been updated after research @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that more than 80 % Britons are worried about the effect that coronavirus is having on their life , with over half saying it was affecting their well-being and nearly half reporting high levels of anxiety .
The film narrated by the Duke and Duchess shows how a range of families and individuals have been affected by COVID-19 and aims to reassure people that support is available for everyone .
Talking about the need to specifically help NHS staff who are supporting patients every day , Prince William said : `` A lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family members around them .
`` I think for the NHS frontline workers that is very difficult , because they are there right next to the bedsides , looking after and caring for each and every patient in a critical condition , and I think they take away that pain and that sometimes that fear and loneliness that these patients have to go through .
`` They 're the ones who have to absorb that and then take it home to their families and I think again .
`` I 've spoken about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happening to somebody is not normal , and we 're not superhuman - any of us - so to be able to manage those emotions and that feeling is going to take some time . ''
Kate said the crisis has undoubtedly made the country appreciate even more the sacrifices made by medical staff every day .
She said : `` I think what we 're seeing now is the NHS and the frontline workers doing the most extraordinary job and that 's really come to the forefront in the last few weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dramatically change how we all value and see our frontline workers .
`` And I think that is one of the main positives that you can take from this .
`` They do an extraordinary job , that is unrecognised daily and now I think all of us as a nation can really see how hard they work and how vital their work is . ''
The Every Mind Matters website includes support for specific mental well-being issues such as anxiety , stress , low mood and trouble sleeping .
The website also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including mindful breathing exercises .

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have voiced a new advert, highlighting where people can find mental health support during the coronavirus crisis.
The short film, which will be broadcast on television from Monday, promotes Public Health England's Every Mind Matters website.
The online platform, which was launched last year, now includes new advice focused on how people can look after their mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
It has been updated after research from the Office for National Statistics found that more than 80% Britons are worried about the effect that coronavirus is having on their life, with over half saying it was affecting their well-being and nearly half reporting high levels of anxiety.
The film narrated by the Duke and Duchess shows how a range of families and individuals have been affected by COVID-19 and aims to reassure people that support is available for everyone.
Talking about the need to specifically help NHS staff who are supporting patients every day, Prince William said: "A lot of these patients are dying with no family members around them.
"I think for the NHS frontline workers that is very difficult, because they are there right next to the bedsides, looking after and caring for each and every patient in a critical condition, and I think they take away that pain and that sometimes that fear and loneliness that these patients have to go through.
"They're the ones who have to absorb that and then take it home to their families and I think again.
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"I've spoken about the attrition and the daily attrition rate happening to somebody is not normal, and we're not superhuman - any of us - so to be able to manage those emotions and that feeling is going to take some time."
Kate said the crisis has undoubtedly made the country appreciate even more the sacrifices made by medical staff every day.
She said: "I think what we're seeing now is the NHS and the frontline workers doing the most extraordinary job and that's really come to the forefront in the last few weeks and I think it's going to dramatically change how we all value and see our frontline workers.
"And I think that is one of the main positives that you can take from this.
"They do an extraordinary job, that is unrecognised daily and now I think all of us as a nation can really see how hard they work and how vital their work is."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:22 William and Kate's video call to pupils
The Every Mind Matters website includes support for specific mental well-being issues such as anxiety, stress, low mood and trouble sleeping.
The website also suggests activities that can be helpful, including mindful breathing exercises.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: US copies UK's #LightItBlue campaign - and they're not messing about

Landmarks across America turned blue on Thursday night , in recognition of frontline workers battling coronavirus .
Following in the footsteps of the UK # LightItBlue campaign , the US joined in a show of colour as a way to say thank-you to essential staff in the fight against COVID-19 .
More than 350 venues including Niagara Falls , One World Trade Center and Madison Square Garden turning into a beacon of blue amid the outbreak .
The # LightItBlue tribute was marked in the normally bustling Times Square , which now lies eerily empty of people .
Staples Center @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with messages of thanks .
Soldier Field in Chicago , the Bank of America Plaza in Dallas and Boston City Hall all did their part too .
LED lights were used to colour historic buildings and sports , civic and arts organisations from coast to coast .
: :Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Baseball team the Pitsburgh Pirates ditched their traditional gold and lit PNC Park blue , while American football team the Washington Redskins also swapped from their burgundy , gold and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and uncertainty , the thank-you effort aims to create a universal moment of solidarity and support .
The # LightItBlue campaign creator Gary White says the initiative has really brought the community together .
`` Each week new venues and landmarks turn blue as a show of solidarity and thanks .
We 're pleased that our friends in the USA are joining to start a global thank-you for all healthcare workers , '' he said .
While the US does n't have a national health service , the tribute recognises the millions of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risking their own health to help others during the pandemic .
America will now continue the campaign every week during the pandemic .
For the last two weeks , UK landmarks including Windsor Castle , Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Stadium have lit up blue at 8pm on Thursday evening .
The visual show of national gratitude also coincides with the Clap For Carers campaign , which sees people step out onto their doorsteps and balconies , and come to their windows at the same time to give key workers a round of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Tens of thousands have been taking part , including politicians , celebrities and royalty .
The UK campaign also invites Britons to continue to show thanks and spread positivity by creating blue-themed images and videos and sharing them online with # MakeItBlue and challenging others to follow suit .
People can take part while staying safe indoors , by painting themselves blue , wearing blue or turning their social media backgrounds blue .

Landmarks across America turned blue on Thursday night, in recognition of frontline workers battling coronavirus.
Following in the footsteps of the UK #LightItBlue campaign, the US joined in a show of colour as a way to say thank-you to essential staff in the fight against COVID-19.
Image: Staples Center says thank-you to all those fighting COVID-19. Pic: @LALIVE
More than 350 venues including Niagara Falls, One World Trade Center and Madison Square Garden turning into a beacon of blue amid the outbreak.
The #LightItBlue tribute was marked in the normally bustling Times Square, which now lies eerily empty of people.
Staples Center arena in downtown Los Angeles shone blue with messages of thanks.
Image: The Six Flags Over Georgia ride. Pic @sforevergeorgia
Soldier Field in Chicago, the Bank of America Plaza in Dallas and Boston City Hall all did their part too.
LED lights were used to colour historic buildings and sports, civic and arts organisations from coast to coast.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
::Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Baseball team the Pitsburgh Pirates ditched their traditional gold and lit PNC Park blue, while American football team the Washington Redskins also swapped from their burgundy, gold and white.
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Image: An empty LAX airport, with flights severely restricted due to the virus. Pic: @flyLAXairport
Image: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum's flame shines out from a pool of blue. Pic: @LAColiseum
At a time of isolation and uncertainty, the thank-you effort aims to create a universal moment of solidarity and support.
The #LightItBlue campaign creator Gary White says the initiative has really brought the community together.
Image: St Louis Wheel at Union Station shines blue from 200ft up. Pic: @stlouiswheel
Image: Pittsburgh Pirates ditched their gold for blue . Pic: @Pirates
"Each week new venues and landmarks turn blue as a show of solidarity and thanks. We're pleased that our friends in the USA are joining to start a global thank-you for all healthcare workers," he said.
While the US doesn't have a national health service, the tribute recognises the millions of essential workers continuing in their roles, risking their own health to help others during the pandemic.
America will now continue the campaign every week during the pandemic.
Image: The Washington Redskins' FedX Field swapped from burgundy and gold to blue. Pic: FedExField
For the last two weeks, UK landmarks including Windsor Castle, Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Stadium have lit up blue at 8pm on Thursday evening.
The visual show of national gratitude also coincides with the Clap For Carers campaign, which sees people step out onto their doorsteps and balconies, and come to their windows at the same time to give key workers a round of applause.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Tens of thousands have been taking part, including politicians, celebrities and royalty.
The UK campaign also invites Britons to continue to show thanks and spread positivity by creating blue-themed images and videos and sharing them online with #MakeItBlue and challenging others to follow suit.
People can take part while staying safe indoors, by painting themselves blue, wearing blue or turning their social media backgrounds blue.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: RMT union boss Steve Hedley suspended over disparaging remarks on PM's health

Steve Hedley , a senior trade union official , has been suspended after making disparaging comments about the prime minister 's health .
The RMT 's senior assistant general secretary - effectively its number two - is now subject to a `` formal investgation '' .
The union said in a statement its national executive had decided to suspend him while inquiries are made `` into his conduct '' .
It comes after Mr Hedley reportedly said he would `` throw a party '' if Boris Johnson died from coronavirus .
RMT president Michelle Rodgers and general secretary Mick Cash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Steve Hedley 's comments do not represent the views of this trade union and are wholly unacceptable . ''
Mr Johnson has been moved out of intensive care but is still being treated in hospital .
The latest update from Downing Street was that he `` has been able to do short walks '' between periods of rest .
Mr Johnson 's spokesman said it was too early to speculate how long the prime minister would need to stay in hospital , adding he was not aware of any contact between Mr Johnson @ @ @ @

Steve Hedley, a senior trade union official, has been suspended after making disparaging comments about the prime minister's health.
The RMT's senior assistant general secretary - effectively its number two - is now subject to a "formal investgation".
The union said in a statement its national executive had decided to suspend him while inquiries are made "into his conduct".
Image: The PM was last seen in a self-shot video before he went into hospital
It comes after Mr Hedley reportedly said he would "throw a party" if Boris Johnson died from coronavirus.
RMT president Michelle Rodgers and general secretary Mick Cash said in a joint statement: "Steve Hedley's comments do not represent the views of this trade union and are wholly unacceptable."
Mr Johnson has been moved out of intensive care but is still being treated in hospital.
The latest update from Downing Street was that he "has been able to do short walks" between periods of rest.
Mr Johnson's spokesman said it was too early to speculate how long the prime minister would need to stay in hospital, adding he was not aware of any contact between Mr Johnson and Number 10.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: York warned funeral ban is 'a step too far' and may breach human rights

A council 's decision to stop all funeral services due to coronavirus is `` a step too far '' and a possible breach of the UN Declaration of Human Rights , an MP has said .
City of York Council has told grieving relatives that only `` direct cremations '' will be taking place , with mourners banned from attending .
`` There will be no exceptions to this , '' the council 's website says .
York Central MP Rachael Maskell said the council has `` stepped way beyond '' the government 's guidance , which allows funerals to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She said she had been contacted by distraught families and had raised her concerns with the council and Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick .
`` This is a very difficult time for everyone , but when crowds are still in our supermarkets and working in warehouses across the city , to stop close family members being able to say goodbye to a child , a parent or partner is completely insensitive and deeply damaging , '' the Labour MP said .
`` Funerals provide an important role in the grieving process , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will cause lasting pain for families .
`` At this time some people are unable to be with close family members as they die , and then not being able to be with them at their funeral is a step too far . ''
York Council said it had taken a difficult decision but it was not the only authority to do this , with Leeds and Bradford following the same policy .
Sharon Stoltz , director of public health for City of York Council , said : `` I understand how difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the pain it may add to the loss of a loved one , and my heart goes out to anyone who is affected by it .
`` Our utmost priority is that we protect people from the spread of coronavirus where it is possible to do so and to ensure that the health of those we work with , the public , council staff , funeral directors and other partners , are protected .
`` Since the decision was announced , we have had further discussions with funeral directors and faith leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow one celebrant or minister to perform a short service that will be filmed free of charge . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A Local Government Association spokesman said it was `` seeking further guidance on funeral services from central government '' .
Public Health England guidance states that mourners must keep two metres apart at funerals and only members of the same household or close family should attend .
PHE has also told people to avoid `` close contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has died with symptoms of COVID-19 as there is a `` real risk '' of transmission .

A council's decision to stop all funeral services due to coronavirus is "a step too far" and a possible breach of the UN Declaration of Human Rights, an MP has said.
City of York Council has told grieving relatives that only "direct cremations" will be taking place, with mourners banned from attending.
"There will be no exceptions to this," the council's website says.
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York Central MP Rachael Maskell said the council has "stepped way beyond" the government's guidance, which allows funerals to continue with social distancing measures in place.
She said she had been contacted by distraught families and had raised her concerns with the council and Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick.
"This is a very difficult time for everyone, but when crowds are still in our supermarkets and working in warehouses across the city, to stop close family members being able to say goodbye to a child, a parent or partner is completely insensitive and deeply damaging," the Labour MP said.
"Funerals provide an important role in the grieving process, and to be denied such an opportunity will cause lasting pain for families.
"At this time some people are unable to be with close family members as they die, and then not being able to be with them at their funeral is a step too far."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:12 Family hold a 'virtual funeral'
York Council said it had taken a difficult decision but it was not the only authority to do this, with Leeds and Bradford following the same policy.
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Sharon Stoltz, director of public health for City of York Council, said: "I understand how difficult this decision will be for many people and the pain it may add to the loss of a loved one, and my heart goes out to anyone who is affected by it.
"Our utmost priority is that we protect people from the spread of coronavirus where it is possible to do so and to ensure that the health of those we work with, the public, council staff, funeral directors and other partners, are protected.
"Since the decision was announced, we have had further discussions with funeral directors and faith leaders and agreed with them that we will allow one celebrant or minister to perform a short service that will be filmed free of charge."
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A Local Government Association spokesman said it was "seeking further guidance on funeral services from central government".
Public Health England guidance states that mourners must keep two metres apart at funerals and only members of the same household or close family should attend.
PHE has also told people to avoid "close contact" with the body of anyone who has died with symptoms of COVID-19 as there is a "real risk" of transmission.