news--2020-04-20--Investigation launched after hedgehogs 'burned alive' during coronavirus lockdown

An investigation has been launched after two hedgehogs were burned alive during the coronavirus lockdown .
The hedgehogs were found side by side by a member of the public on Wednesday on a path in Daventry , Northamptonshire , with burn marks on their backs .
The animals were still alive when they were discovered but are thought to have been suffering from the night before .
Despite being taken to a nearby vets , neither survived the attack .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker RSPCA and Animal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ described the incident as a `` callous act '' .
She said : `` The poor hedgehogs were still alive when I attended the scene ... and we think they may have been left suffering since the night before .
`` A neighbour reported smelling smoke at 11pm ( Tuesday ) but could not see where it was coming from so we suspect it was from the poor hedgehogs .
`` It seems both have been placed together and deliberately doused in some accelerant before they were deliberately set on fire in what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and callous act . ''
She said the animals were left in `` an awful state '' and must have been in a lot of pain from the injuries for several hours until they were found .
Ms Frost added : `` They had identical injuries with burns on their back and the vet also believes this was a deliberate attack .
`` I am very keen to find the person responsible and am appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area the night before or who knows who has done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 123 8018 . ''

An investigation has been launched after two hedgehogs were burned alive during the coronavirus lockdown.
The hedgehogs were found side by side by a member of the public on Wednesday on a path in Daventry, Northamptonshire, with burn marks on their backs.
The animals were still alive when they were discovered but are thought to have been suffering from the night before.
Despite being taken to a nearby vets, neither survived the attack.
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RSPCA and Animal Collections Officer (ACO) Rebecca Frost described the incident as a "callous act".
She said: "The poor hedgehogs were still alive when I attended the scene... and we think they may have been left suffering since the night before.
"A neighbour reported smelling smoke at 11pm (Tuesday) but could not see where it was coming from so we suspect it was from the poor hedgehogs.
"It seems both have been placed together and deliberately doused in some accelerant before they were deliberately set on fire in what can only be described as a horrific and callous act."
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She said the animals were left in "an awful state" and must have been in a lot of pain from the injuries for several hours until they were found.
Ms Frost added: "They had identical injuries with burns on their back and the vet also believes this was a deliberate attack.
"I am very keen to find the person responsible and am appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area the night before or who knows who has done this to contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018."


news--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: Minute's silence to be held for key workers who have died from COVID-19

A minute 's silence is to be held for key workers who have died after testing positive for COVID-19 .
Unison , the Royal College of Nursing and the Royal College of Midwives are calling on politicians , employers , workers and those on lockdown to join the silence at 11am on 28 April .
Unison general secretary Dave Prentis said : `` This is the ultimate tribute to remember workers who 've lost their lives and put themselves in harm 's way to keep us safe and vital services running .
`` Every year the sacrifice of workers around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year has a special significance because of the pandemic . ''
Royal College of Nursing general secretary Donna Kinnair said : `` We 've become used to hearing a great roar on a Thursday night for key workers , but this respectful silence will be a poignant reminder of the risks they run to keep us safe .
`` I hope the public gets behind this with the same affection they show when applauding our people . ''
Royal College of Midwives general secretary Gill Walton said : `` We had expected 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Year of the Nurse and Midwife but , although we actively applaud their service , this is not what we had imagined .
`` Instead , across the country , midwives and maternity support workers are seeing the impact of coronavirus not only on the women in their care , but on their colleagues as well . ''
Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer also supports the idea , saying key workers `` represent the best of us '' .
He said : `` Our key workers are literally putting their lives on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
`` That is why Labour wholeheartedly supports the call for a minute 's silence in honour of all those on the front line who have died from coronavirus . ''

A minute's silence is to be held for key workers who have died after testing positive for COVID-19.
Unison, the Royal College of Nursing and the Royal College of Midwives are calling on politicians, employers, workers and those on lockdown to join the silence at 11am on 28 April.
Unison general secretary Dave Prentis said: "This is the ultimate tribute to remember workers who've lost their lives and put themselves in harm's way to keep us safe and vital services running.
"Every year the sacrifice of workers around the world is recognised, but this year has a special significance because of the pandemic."
Royal College of Nursing general secretary Donna Kinnair said: "We've become used to hearing a great roar on a Thursday night for key workers, but this respectful silence will be a poignant reminder of the risks they run to keep us safe.
"I hope the public gets behind this with the same affection they show when applauding our people."
Royal College of Midwives general secretary Gill Walton said: "We had expected 2020 to be a celebration of the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife but, although we actively applaud their service, this is not what we had imagined.
"Instead, across the country, midwives and maternity support workers are seeing the impact of coronavirus not only on the women in their care, but on their colleagues as well."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:01 Britain applauds its NHS heroes
Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer also supports the idea, saying key workers "represent the best of us".
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He said: "Our key workers are literally putting their lives on the line in the fight against the coronavirus.
"That is why Labour wholeheartedly supports the call for a minute's silence in honour of all those on the front line who have died from coronavirus."


news--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: 'Delay' in reporting patient at Austrian ski resort set to be investigated

A criminal investigation may be launched into claims a coronavirus patient was reported too late at an Austrian ski resort , which later became a hotspot for the spread of the disease .
Ischgl resort has reportedly been linked to hundreds of COVID-19 cases in Germany , Iceland , Norway and Denmark as well as Austria .
Prosecutors in Austria are now considering opening an investigation into whether a case in Ischgl was reported too late .
According to reports , the inquiry would focus on claims that a worker fell ill at the resort , in the province of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ski regions in Tyrol , including St Anton , have also emerged as hotspots for the European spread of the virus , which lead to a complete lockdown of the province last week .
Austria has reported nearly 4,000 cases with 21 deaths so far .
The country is mobilising its military reservists for the first time since the Second World War , asking them to fight the outbreak by helping food supplies , medical support and police operations , defence minister Klaudia Tanner said .
Austria still has compulsory military service and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ army or nine months in a civilian service when they reach 18. : : Listen to the Daily Podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Around 3,000 soldiers - 10 % of the reserves - will take over coronavirus-related tasks from soldiers whose military service expires in May for three months , Ms Tanner told a news conference .
Elsewhere in Europe , Germany 's parliament is set to approve a series of measures that will allow the government to offer aid totalling more than a trillion euros ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Spain is now the world 's second-highest tally of COVID-19 deaths after 738 more were reported on Wednesday , the country 's deadliest toll in one day .
Italy still has the most deaths of any nation in the world with 6,820 .
There have been more than 435,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus around the world , with more than 19,600 deaths , according to Johns Hopkins University .

A criminal investigation may be launched into claims a coronavirus patient was reported too late at an Austrian ski resort, which later became a hotspot for the spread of the disease.
Ischgl resort has reportedly been linked to hundreds of COVID-19 cases in Germany, Iceland, Norway and Denmark as well as Austria.
Prosecutors in Austria are now considering opening an investigation into whether a case in Ischgl was reported too late.
According to reports, the inquiry would focus on claims that a worker fell ill at the resort, in the province of Tyrol, in February.
Other popular ski regions in Tyrol, including St Anton, have also emerged as hotspots for the European spread of the virus, which lead to a complete lockdown of the province last week.
Austria has reported nearly 4,000 cases with 21 deaths so far.
The country is mobilising its military reservists for the first time since the Second World War, asking them to fight the outbreak by helping food supplies, medical support and police operations, defence minister Klaudia Tanner said.
Austria still has compulsory military service and men must serve six months in the army or nine months in a civilian service when they reach 18.
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Around 3,000 soldiers - 10% of the reserves - will take over coronavirus-related tasks from soldiers whose military service expires in May for three months, Ms Tanner told a news conference.
Elsewhere in Europe, Germany's parliament is set to approve a series of measures that will allow the government to offer aid totalling more than a trillion euros (£900bn) for its 83 million-strong population.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:55 Is Spain the new COVID-19 epicentre?
Spain is now the world's second-highest tally of COVID-19 deaths after 738 more were reported on Wednesday, the country's deadliest toll in one day.
With 3,434 coronavirus patients dead, Spain surpassed China's toll of 3,285.
Italy still has the most deaths of any nation in the world with 6,820.
There have been more than 435,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus around the world, with more than 19,600 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.


news--2020-04-20--Lyrid meteor shower: Shooting stars and 'occasional fireballs' set to light up UK skies

Amateur astronomers could be in for a treat this week as shooting stars are set to light up the night sky - and some could even see fireballs during the first major showers since January .
The Lyrid meteor shower is a burst of activity which takes place annually - usually around mid to late April - and is associated with the Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher , according to the Royal Observatory Greenwich .
The Lyrids appear to radiate close to the constellation Lyra and are bits of rock and dust left behind by the comet .
The shower is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday morning , and there could be around 20 meteors an hour .
Experts also claim stargazers could see `` occasional fireballs '' that can be `` bigger and brighter '' than shooting stars , and last longer - `` for between five and 10 seconds '' , as they say you could `` blink and miss a meteor '' .
The showers will be visible across the UK , but those living in dark , rural areas are likely to see more than people living in cities where there is a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus lockdown , keen stargazers should only try and view the shower from their own homes .
Speaking to Sky News , astronomer Ed Bloom , from the Royal Observatory Greenwich , said the `` radiant of the Lyrids will be low on the horizon towards the northeast as the sun sets '' .
He added that people would need to have `` patience '' - as `` it could be an hour before you see anything , so wrap up warm and get comfy in your garden '' .
`` Over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ radiant of the Lyrids will rise and move southwards as the earth spins , and will still be up when the sun rises . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He continued : `` The three bright stars Vega , Altair and Deneb form an 'asterism ' known as the Summer Triangle - they can be a useful way to orientate yourself properly . ''
Mr Bloom shared some tips on the best way to see the showers .
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Vega , the 'top-right ' vertex of the triangle , and if you can face that , just look slightly to what will now be your right .
`` Peak activity is usually around the 22 April , and will have died away completely by the end of the 26th , but that still gives us a few days leeway , so if bad weather ruins your nights ' observations , give it another go ! ''

Amateur astronomers could be in for a treat this week as shooting stars are set to light up the night sky - and some could even see fireballs during the first major showers since January.
The Lyrid meteor shower is a burst of activity which takes place annually - usually around mid to late April - and is associated with the Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, according to the Royal Observatory Greenwich.
The Lyrids appear to radiate close to the constellation Lyra and are bits of rock and dust left behind by the comet.
Image: The Lyrid meteor shower is expected to peak on Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning. File pic
The shower is expected to peak on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, and there could be around 20 meteors an hour.
Experts also claim stargazers could see "occasional fireballs" that can be "bigger and brighter" than shooting stars, and last longer - "for between five and 10 seconds", as they say you could "blink and miss a meteor".
The showers will be visible across the UK, but those living in dark, rural areas are likely to see more than people living in cities where there is a lot of light pollution.
But due to the coronavirus lockdown, keen stargazers should only try and view the shower from their own homes.
Speaking to Sky News, astronomer Ed Bloom, from the Royal Observatory Greenwich, said the "radiant of the Lyrids will be low on the horizon towards the northeast as the sun sets".
He added that people would need to have "patience" - as "it could be an hour before you see anything, so wrap up warm and get comfy in your garden".
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"Over the course of the night, the radiant of the Lyrids will rise and move southwards as the earth spins, and will still be up when the sun rises."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He continued: "The three bright stars Vega, Altair and Deneb form an 'asterism' known as the Summer Triangle - they can be a useful way to orientate yourself properly."
Mr Bloom shared some tips on the best way to see the showers.
He said: "The Lyrid radiant lies close to Vega, the 'top-right' vertex of the triangle, and if you can face that, just look slightly to what will now be your right.
"Peak activity is usually around the 22 April, and will have died away completely by the end of the 26th, but that still gives us a few days leeway, so if bad weather ruins your nights' observations, give it another go!"


news--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: Tom Jones opens up about being quarantined with TB for two years as a child

Sir Tom Jones has told of how he was forced to quarantine for two years due to tuberculosis when he was a child as he joined a number of stars giving UK performances for a global virtual concert celebrating healthcare workers .
The Welsh star performed along with acts including Little Mix and Michael Buble for the One World : Together At Home event , supporting front line coronavirus workers , on Sunday .
Organised in collaboration with Lady Gaga , the show launched on Saturday night with everyone from Taylor Swift and Beyonce to The Rolling Stones and Sir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people in lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic .
On Sunday , Sir Tom performed The Glory Of Love , which has been recorded by artists including Jimmy Durante , Dean Martin and Nina Simone , and paid tribute to the NHS as he shared his own experiences .
`` I 've lived a long time , I 've seen a lot of things , I 've experienced a lot of things , '' he said .
Gesturing to a picture behind him , he continued : `` Like this house for instance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street , where I was born and brought up .
`` I was isolated there for two years with tuberculosis in that house , and I thought that was bad then .
`` But the National Health Service helped me then like they 're helping all of us right now .
`` So I would like to say thank you so much to the National Health for doing what they did for me then and what they 're doing right now for everybody else .
`` We have to do our best to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we should stay home .
And follow orders and go along with what we 're being told to do .
`` Stick with it , be together and we 'll survive .
God bless you . ''
The event was staged in conjunction with Global Citizen and the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) , with the BBC covering the highlights and UK exclusives on Sunday .
Little Mix performed their hit Touch and band member Perrie Edwards also paid tribute to the NHS and other key workers .
`` We wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you guys are being positive during this weird , weird time that we are in , '' she said .
`` I think we can all agree that the love that we feel for the NHS staff at this time and the key workers , doctors , nurses , carers , retail workers , postmen , waste collectors , the list goes on and on .
`` You all deserve such a huge thank you and we appreciate you so , so , so much .
`` Everybody please take care of yourselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , stay home , save lives , protect the NHS . ''
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Buble performed the Beach Boys classic God Only Knows .
The star , whose son , Noah , had cancer when he was younger , said he wanted to thank and celebrate `` all those incredible front line healthcare workers and all the people in essential services who day after day have gone and risked their lives to save ours '' .
Paying tribute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of my own family , I love you dearly .
`` You are the real superheroes and right now I 'd like very much to dedicate this song to all of you . ''
The broadcast also featured highlights from the US show , which was livestreamed around the world , including performances from Stevie Wonder and Billie Eilish , as well as Sir Paul McCartney talking about his mother Mary , who was a nurse and midwife during and after the Second World War .
Hosted by US talk show hosts Jimmy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it also included real-life stories from medical staff on the front line of the pandemic .
The UK show finished with an exclusive performance of Make You Feel My Love by royal wedding singers The Kingdom Choir .

Sir Tom Jones has told of how he was forced to quarantine for two years due to tuberculosis when he was a child as he joined a number of stars giving UK performances for a global virtual concert celebrating healthcare workers.
The Welsh star performed along with acts including Little Mix and Michael Buble for the One World: Together At Home event, supporting front line coronavirus workers, on Sunday.
Organised in collaboration with Lady Gaga, the show launched on Saturday night with everyone from Taylor Swift and Beyonce to The Rolling Stones and Sir Elton John taking part to entertain millions of people in lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Image: Little Mix performed their hit song, Touch, during the UK performances. Pic: BBC Music/YouTube
On Sunday, Sir Tom performed The Glory Of Love, which has been recorded by artists including Jimmy Durante, Dean Martin and Nina Simone, and paid tribute to the NHS as he shared his own experiences.
"I've lived a long time, I've seen a lot of things, I've experienced a lot of things," he said.
Gesturing to a picture behind him, he continued: "Like this house for instance right here, that's 44 Laura Street, where I was born and brought up.
"I was isolated there for two years with tuberculosis in that house, and I thought that was bad then.
"But the National Health Service helped me then like they're helping all of us right now.
"So I would like to say thank you so much to the National Health for doing what they did for me then and what they're doing right now for everybody else.
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"We have to do our best to stay home to help the National Health, we should stay home. And follow orders and go along with what we're being told to do.
"Stick with it, be together and we'll survive. God bless you."
Image: Lady Gaga helped to organise the event
The event was staged in conjunction with Global Citizen and the World Health Organisation (WHO), with the BBC covering the highlights and UK exclusives on Sunday.
Little Mix performed their hit Touch and band member Perrie Edwards also paid tribute to the NHS and other key workers.
"We wanted to say hi and we really hope you guys are being positive during this weird, weird time that we are in," she said.
"I think we can all agree that the love that we feel for the NHS staff at this time and the key workers, doctors, nurses, carers, retail workers, postmen, waste collectors, the list goes on and on.
"You all deserve such a huge thank you and we appreciate you so, so, so much.
"Everybody please take care of yourselves, take care of your loved ones, stay home, save lives, protect the NHS."
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Buble performed the Beach Boys classic God Only Knows.
The star, whose son, Noah, had cancer when he was younger, said he wanted to thank and celebrate "all those incredible front line healthcare workers and all the people in essential services who day after day have gone and risked their lives to save ours".
Paying tribute, he said: "On behalf of my own family, I love you dearly.
"You are the real superheroes and right now I'd like very much to dedicate this song to all of you."
The broadcast also featured highlights from the US show, which was livestreamed around the world, including performances from Stevie Wonder and Billie Eilish, as well as Sir Paul McCartney talking about his mother Mary, who was a nurse and midwife during and after the Second World War.
Hosted by US talk show hosts Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel, it also included real-life stories from medical staff on the front line of the pandemic.
The UK show finished with an exclusive performance of Make You Feel My Love by royal wedding singers The Kingdom Choir.


news--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: Fears for vulnerable children as thousands miss first day of new school term

Thousands of vulnerable children who should be returning to school have not turned up for the first day of summer term .
Under government coronavirus guidelines , children with complex needs should continue attending school , but head teachers have told Sky News that only a fraction came in .
While many are being kept at home by parents concerned about the risk of COVID-19 , teachers are concerned that children with special needs , or those living in neglectful environments are at greater risk of other problems if they stay at home .
Geoff Barton , general secretary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told Sky News : `` I think if you average it out across the UK we 're seeing very , very small numbers [ going to school ] .
`` It 'll vary from area to area but overall I think we would be concerned that the number of vulnerable children in particular are very low .
`` They will be at a huge disadvantage socially , educationally but may be at risk as well and that 's why no one is turning a blind eye to it . ''
New Rush Hall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children with social , emotional or mental health difficulties and all the children enrolled are categorised as vulnerable , but out of 64 children only three turned up today .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Executive headteacher Sam Walters said .
`` My concerns are that when you have social care issues with families it 's important to have that regular contact - and not just a phone conversation .
`` Sometimes you need to see the pupil in person to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well .
`` I think across the country at the moment you have turmoil in families because people are forced to be in the same house for a long amount of time , so for children with social care issues it 's a particularly difficult time . ''
Mr Walters also oversees two pupil referral units ( PRUs ) in Redbridge in East London .
Of nearly 200 children enrolled , all of them are vulnerable and very few arrived at school this morning .
Mr Walters said : `` Many children who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminal activity , and in these times , children who are categorised as vulnerable should be at school , but they are the type of children who will take this opportunity not to go to school .
`` Across the area that we work in , since the lockdown we 've had kids arrested for robbery , burglary , county lines and in one case attempted murder .
`` Some high-end things that I 'm not saying we could 've prevented if we were at school , but we would 've been more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loop and more able to work with those young people in a positive way . ''
This weekend the government released guidance advising local authorities to conduct risk assessments on whether vulnerable children would be safe in school or at home , including `` the potential health risks to the individual from coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , bearing in mind any underlying health conditions '' .
Set against this are a number of factors such as the ability of the child 's parents or carers to ensure their health and care needs can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk or vulnerability .
For example , a child `` becoming involved in dangerous behaviour or situations or requiring support from a social worker '' / Educators say the problem is that even if they identify the most at risk children - they have no way of making sure they come into school .
A Department for Education spokesperson responded by saying : `` Being in school can keep vulnerable children and young people safe and ease pressure on families , which is why we have enabled these children to continue attending despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We thank schools and social workers for the work they are doing to keep vulnerable children safe and in school at this challenging time and we are supporting them to do this . ''

Thousands of vulnerable children who should be returning to school have not turned up for the first day of summer term.
Under government coronavirus guidelines, children with complex needs should continue attending school, but head teachers have told Sky News that only a fraction came in.
While many are being kept at home by parents concerned about the risk of COVID-19, teachers are concerned that children with special needs, or those living in neglectful environments are at greater risk of other problems if they stay at home.
Image: Some parents are keeping their children at home over fears of the virus
Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders told Sky News: "I think if you average it out across the UK we're seeing very, very small numbers [going to school].
"It'll vary from area to area but overall I think we would be concerned that the number of vulnerable children in particular are very low.
"They will be at a huge disadvantage socially, educationally but may be at risk as well and that's why no one is turning a blind eye to it."
New Rush Hall in east London is a school for children with social, emotional or mental health difficulties and all the children enrolled are categorised as vulnerable, but out of 64 children only three turned up today.
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Executive headteacher Sam Walters said. "My concerns are that when you have social care issues with families it's important to have that regular contact - and not just a phone conversation.
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"Sometimes you need to see the pupil in person to know whether they are physically or mentally well.
"I think across the country at the moment you have turmoil in families because people are forced to be in the same house for a long amount of time, so for children with social care issues it's a particularly difficult time."
Image: Sam Walter said it is a 'particularly difficult time' for vulnerable children
Mr Walters also oversees two pupil referral units (PRUs) in Redbridge in East London. Of nearly 200 children enrolled, all of them are vulnerable and very few arrived at school this morning.
Mr Walters said: "Many children who go to our PRUs are engaged in criminal activity, and in these times, children who are categorised as vulnerable should be at school, but they are the type of children who will take this opportunity not to go to school.
"Across the area that we work in, since the lockdown we've had kids arrested for robbery, burglary, county lines and in one case attempted murder.
"Some high-end things that I'm not saying we could've prevented if we were at school, but we would've been more in the know, more in the loop and more able to work with those young people in a positive way."
This weekend the government released guidance advising local authorities to conduct risk assessments on whether vulnerable children would be safe in school or at home, including "the potential health risks to the individual from coronavirus (COVID-19), bearing in mind any underlying health conditions".
Set against this are a number of factors such as the ability of the child's parents or carers to ensure their health and care needs can be met and any out-of-school or college risk or vulnerability.
For example, a child "becoming involved in dangerous behaviour or situations or requiring support from a social worker"/
Educators say the problem is that even if they identify the most at risk children - they have no way of making sure they come into school.
A Department for Education spokesperson responded by saying: "Being in school can keep vulnerable children and young people safe and ease pressure on families, which is why we have enabled these children to continue attending despite schools being closed for other pupils.
"We thank schools and social workers for the work they are doing to keep vulnerable children safe and in school at this challenging time and we are supporting them to do this."


news--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: Novak Djokovic reveals he's an anti-vaxxer and it may stop his return to tennis

Novak Djokovic has revealed he is an anti-vaxxer and that it could get in the way of his return to competitive tennis once the sport resumes from the coronavirus pandemic .
The men 's tennis world number one admitted his opposition to vaccinations , saying `` I would n't want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine '' and that if it were made compulsory he would have to make a decision .
Prominent figures in tennis have said all players should be vaccinated when competition starts again , provided a vaccination against COVID-19 is produced by then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But speaking during a live Facebook discussion with several fellow Serbian athletes , Djokovic said : `` Personally I am opposed to vaccination and I would n't want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine in order to be able to travel .
`` But if it becomes compulsory , what will happen ?
I will have to make a decision .
`` I have my own thoughts about the matter and whether those thoughts will change at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Hypothetically , if the season was to resume in July , August or September , though unlikely , I understand that a vaccine will become a requirement straight after we are out of strict quarantine and there is no vaccine yet . ''
Amelie Mauresmo , herself a former women 's tennis world number one , has said the sport should not resume unless players can be vaccinated , although scientists have repeatedly said that could be a year away and may not ever materialise .
Dual grand slam winner Mauresmo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players of all nationalities plus management , spectators and people from the four corners of the world who bring these events to life .
No vaccine = no tennis . ''
The COVID-19 outbreak has seen tennis governing bodies suspend all tournaments until 13 July at the earliest .
Wimbledon has been cancelled for the first time since the Second World War , and the French Open has been put back four months until late September .
The main agencies which work to promote vaccination say they have been highly successful at saving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Much of the scepticism around vaccination stems from a discredited study by British surgeon Andrew Wakefield that erroneously linked autism to the MMR vaccine .
That study has been retracted , and nine years ago Wakefield was struck off the UK medical registry .

Novak Djokovic has revealed he is an anti-vaxxer and that it could get in the way of his return to competitive tennis once the sport resumes from the coronavirus pandemic.
The men's tennis world number one admitted his opposition to vaccinations, saying "I wouldn't want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine" and that if it were made compulsory he would have to make a decision.
Prominent figures in tennis have said all players should be vaccinated when competition starts again, provided a vaccination against COVID-19 is produced by then.
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But speaking during a live Facebook discussion with several fellow Serbian athletes, Djokovic said: "Personally I am opposed to vaccination and I wouldn't want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine in order to be able to travel.
"But if it becomes compulsory, what will happen? I will have to make a decision.
"I have my own thoughts about the matter and whether those thoughts will change at some point, I don't know.
"Hypothetically, if the season was to resume in July, August or September, though unlikely, I understand that a vaccine will become a requirement straight after we are out of strict quarantine and there is no vaccine yet."
Amelie Mauresmo, herself a former women's tennis world number one, has said the sport should not resume unless players can be vaccinated, although scientists have repeatedly said that could be a year away and may not ever materialise.
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Dual grand slam winner Mauresmo last month tweeted: "International circuit players of all nationalities plus management, spectators and people from the four corners of the world who bring these events to life. No vaccine = no tennis."
The COVID-19 outbreak has seen tennis governing bodies suspend all tournaments until 13 July at the earliest.
Wimbledon has been cancelled for the first time since the Second World War, and the French Open has been put back four months until late September.
The main agencies which work to promote vaccination say they have been highly successful at saving lives in the last few years.
Much of the scepticism around vaccination stems from a discredited study by British surgeon Andrew Wakefield that erroneously linked autism to the MMR vaccine. That study has been retracted, and nine years ago Wakefield was struck off the UK medical registry.


news--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: Easing lockdown too quickly could lead to second COVID-19 peak, government warns

Easing the coronavirus lockdown too quickly could lead to a second peak in the outbreak , Downing Street has said .
Asked about reports that Boris Johnson favours a cautious approach to lifting restrictions introduced to halt the spread of COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus , his spokesman said : `` The big concern is a second peak . ''
A further 429 people who tested positive for coronavirus in England have died , bringing the total number of confirmed deaths in hospitals to 14,829 .
Nine deaths have been reported in Wales , bringing the total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths have been reported in Scotland , bringing its total to 915 .
The PM 's spokesman said easing restrictions too fast `` ultimately will do the most damage to health and the most damage to the economy '' .
`` If you move too quickly then the virus could begin to spread exponentially again .
`` The public will expect us to do everything we can to stop the spread of the virus and protect lives . ''
According to a report in Monday 's The Times newspaper , Mr Johnson has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' about easing the lockdown and that his `` overriding concern '' is avoiding a second wave .
The PM 's spokesman said Mr Johnson was getting daily written updates on the government 's COVID-19 response as he continues to recover at Chequers .
But he said the PM was not doing any government work .
Mr Johnson spent a week in hospital with persistent coronavirus symptoms , including a number of days in intensive care .
The spokesman would not be drawn on when the PM would return to Downing Street , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guided by the advice of his medical team '' .
Dominic Raab , the foreign secretary , continues to deputise for the PM , Number 10 added .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The lockdown was introduced by the PM on 23 March and was extended for another 21 days last week .
Number 10 said that decisions on when to ease the terms of the lockdown will be based on advice from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advising the government about the outbreak .
Asked whether the lockdown could be modified rather than lifted entirely , the PM 's spokesman said : `` If you move too quickly , lifting the social distancing measures wholesale , then that could lead to the virus spreading exponentially again . ''
He pointed to Mr Raab 's suggestion that the next steps could involve relaxing measures in some areas while strengthening them in others .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is continuing to call on the government to set out its strategy for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keir joined other opposition leaders - understood to include SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford and Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey - in what was described as a `` constructive '' telephone briefing from Mr Raab .
`` Keir Starmer reiterated his support for the government 's decision to extend the lockdown , but asked what planning was being put in place for when the restrictions are lifted , '' a spokesman for the Labour leader added .
Sir Keir was also said to have questioned Mr Raab about the shortage of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would hit its target of 100,000 daily coronavirus tests by the end of the month .
The PM 's spokesman told reporters that the government believes it remains on `` course '' to meet that target .
This is despite some 21,626 people in England , Wales and Scotland being tested in the 24 hours up to 9am on Sunday .
The PM 's spokesman said testing capacity for that period was 36,000 - down from 38,000 last week - but said this was because of commercial laboratories implementing new processes .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he insisted .
The spokesman added that more than 88,000 NHS and social care staff and their relatives have now been tested .
On the provision of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , he said more than 12 million items were delivered on Sunday but acknowledged there was a `` particular issue '' with gowns .
There was criticism after a shipment of 84 tonnes of PPE due to arrive from Turkey on Sunday was delayed .
Downing Street said the government was `` working to ensure that that shipment is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The PM 's spokesman continued : `` The RAF is on stand-by to take off as soon as the shipment is ready .
`` But , to be clear , we are not reliant solely on Turkey for the delivery of gowns and plenty more orders are lined up and expected . ''

Easing the coronavirus lockdown too quickly could lead to a second peak in the outbreak, Downing Street has said.
Asked about reports that Boris Johnson favours a cautious approach to lifting restrictions introduced to halt the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, his spokesman said: "The big concern is a second peak."
A further 429 people who tested positive for coronavirus in England have died, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths in hospitals to 14,829.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:34 'I have sympathy for those making decisions'
Nine deaths have been reported in Wales, bringing the total there to 584, and another 12 deaths have been reported in Scotland, bringing its total to 915.
The PM's spokesman said easing restrictions too fast "ultimately will do the most damage to health and the most damage to the economy".
"If you move too quickly then the virus could begin to spread exponentially again.
"The public will expect us to do everything we can to stop the spread of the virus and protect lives."
According to a report in Monday's The Times newspaper, Mr Johnson has told colleagues he is "very cautious" about easing the lockdown and that his "overriding concern" is avoiding a second wave.
The PM's spokesman said Mr Johnson was getting daily written updates on the government's COVID-19 response as he continues to recover at Chequers.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:47 Coronavirus: Lockdown in Europe gently lifts
But he said the PM was not doing any government work.
Mr Johnson spent a week in hospital with persistent coronavirus symptoms, including a number of days in intensive care.
The spokesman would not be drawn on when the PM would return to Downing Street, but said Mr Johnson would be "guided by the advice of his medical team".
Dominic Raab, the foreign secretary, continues to deputise for the PM, Number 10 added.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The lockdown was introduced by the PM on 23 March and was extended for another 21 days last week.
Number 10 said that decisions on when to ease the terms of the lockdown will be based on advice from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), a group of experts advising the government about the outbreak.
Asked whether the lockdown could be modified rather than lifted entirely, the PM's spokesman said: "If you move too quickly, lifting the social distancing measures wholesale, then that could lead to the virus spreading exponentially again."
He pointed to Mr Raab's suggestion that the next steps could involve relaxing measures in some areas while strengthening them in others.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:16 'I can't give a date for schools to reopen'
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is continuing to call on the government to set out its strategy for coming out of the lockdown.
Sir Keir joined other opposition leaders - understood to include SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford and Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey - in what was described as a "constructive" telephone briefing from Mr Raab.
"Keir Starmer reiterated his support for the government's decision to extend the lockdown, but asked what planning was being put in place for when the restrictions are lifted," a spokesman for the Labour leader added.
Sir Keir was also said to have questioned Mr Raab about the shortage of protective personal equipment and whether the government would hit its target of 100,000 daily coronavirus tests by the end of the month.
The PM's spokesman told reporters that the government believes it remains on "course" to meet that target.
This is despite some 21,626 people in England, Wales and Scotland being tested in the 24 hours up to 9am on Sunday.
The PM's spokesman said testing capacity for that period was 36,000 - down from 38,000 last week - but said this was because of commercial laboratories implementing new processes.
"That's not a permanent dip," he insisted.
The spokesman added that more than 88,000 NHS and social care staff and their relatives have now been tested.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 'We're working hard to get PPE to front line'
On the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), he said more than 12 million items were delivered on Sunday but acknowledged there was a "particular issue" with gowns.
There was criticism after a shipment of 84 tonnes of PPE due to arrive from Turkey on Sunday was delayed.
Downing Street said the government was "working to ensure that that shipment is delivered as soon as possible".
The PM's spokesman continued: "The RAF is on stand-by to take off as soon as the shipment is ready.
"But, to be clear, we are not reliant solely on Turkey for the delivery of gowns and plenty more orders are lined up and expected."


news--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: Idris Elba says 'world should quarantine for a week every year to remember this time'

Idris Elba has said he thinks the world should take a week of quarantine every year to `` remember this time '' once the COVID-19 pandemic is over .
The star , who along with his wife Sabrina Dhowre Elba has recovered after contracting coronavirus , said it had been a `` scary '' time .
As new UN Goodwill Ambassadors , the couple are helping to raise $ 200m ( £160m ) to support rural farmers trying to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak , in addition to an initial $ 40m in funding from the United Nations International Fund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Speaking about the virus and recovery , Elba - who also took part in the global One World : Together At Home event on Saturday - told the Associated Press their cases had been `` very mild '' .
On lockdown , he said : `` I think that the world should take a week of quarantine every year just to remember this time .
Remember each other .
I really do .
`` I think it's… other species use it .
It 's called hibernation .
But it does remind you that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time . ''
The British actor , star of series including The Wire and Luther , said he and his wife were lucky not to suffer serious symptoms of the virus after testing positive in March .
`` It 's been about six weeks from the beginning to this point right now for us , where it 's essentially our lives turned around , '' he said .
`` Definitely scary and unsettling and nervous .
And I think that 's been like a real collected world experience .
`` You know , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have been feeling , but it has definitely been sort of just a complete upheaval . ''
Dhowre Elba , a model , said : `` But thankfully we were extremely lucky to be able to get very mild cases of COVID and the outpouring of support and all of the people who have reached out to us , it 's just been overwhelming . ''
The couple have been recovering in New Mexico , where Elba was filming when he became ill , but plan to return to London as soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The actor said he had to miss his six-year-old son 's birthday because of the lockdown , but is `` hoping to see him as soon as I can '' .
`` We 've been fortunate , '' he added .
`` We have been staying in a lovely place that 's been very comfortable for the time .
But we 're looking forward to going home . ''
Speaking about the UN fund for farmers , Elba said people in rural and poor areas are likely to suffer more in the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roots in Africa , as Elba 's parents are from Sierra Leone and Ghana , while Dhowre Elba is of Somali descent .
Last year , they spoke of their pride at being the `` first African couple '' to be featured on the cover of British Vogue .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In December , the couple visited Sierra Leone with the UN to see how IFAD is assisting people in the country .
`` If you imagine being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knows the name of your village or your population , and that you live in a slum where there is one room and six of you live in it , social distancing is almost laughable , '' Elba said .
`` What we are really worried about at the moment , and why we are launching this fund is that those people are being forgotten , '' Dhowre Elba said .
`` The economic fallout of this pandemic is being overlooked and while health , you know , is so important at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health pandemic , we do n't want people to forget about what comes after that . ''

Idris Elba has said he thinks the world should take a week of quarantine every year to "remember this time" once the COVID-19 pandemic is over.
The star, who along with his wife Sabrina Dhowre Elba has recovered after contracting coronavirus, said it had been a "scary" time.
As new UN Goodwill Ambassadors, the couple are helping to raise $200m (£160m) to support rural farmers trying to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak, in addition to an initial $40m in funding from the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:09 Elba revealed he had tested positive for COVID-19 in March
Speaking about the virus and recovery, Elba - who also took part in the global One World: Together At Home event on Saturday - told the Associated Press their cases had been "very mild".
On lockdown, he said: "I think that the world should take a week of quarantine every year just to remember this time. Remember each other. I really do.
"I think it's… other species use it. It's called hibernation. But it does remind you that the world doesn't tick on your time."
The British actor, star of series including The Wire and Luther, said he and his wife were lucky not to suffer serious symptoms of the virus after testing positive in March.
"It's been about six weeks from the beginning to this point right now for us, where it's essentially our lives turned around," he said. "Definitely scary and unsettling and nervous. And I think that's been like a real collected world experience.
"You know, everyone's sort of feeling the way we have been feeling, but it has definitely been sort of just a complete upheaval."
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Dhowre Elba, a model, said: "But thankfully we were extremely lucky to be able to get very mild cases of COVID and the outpouring of support and all of the people who have reached out to us, it's just been overwhelming."
The couple have been recovering in New Mexico, where Elba was filming when he became ill, but plan to return to London as soon as they can get a flight.
The actor said he had to miss his six-year-old son's birthday because of the lockdown, but is "hoping to see him as soon as I can".
"We've been fortunate," he added. "We have been staying in a lovely place that's been very comfortable for the time. But we're looking forward to going home."
Speaking about the UN fund for farmers, Elba said people in rural and poor areas are likely to suffer more in the pandemic.
Both Elba and his wife have roots in Africa, as Elba's parents are from Sierra Leone and Ghana, while Dhowre Elba is of Somali descent.
Last year, they spoke of their pride at being the "first African couple" to be featured on the cover of British Vogue.
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 the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In December, the couple visited Sierra Leone with the UN to see how IFAD is assisting people in the country.
"If you imagine being in a village where no one even knows the name of your village or your population, and that you live in a slum where there is one room and six of you live in it, social distancing is almost laughable," Elba said.
"What we are really worried about at the moment, and why we are launching this fund is that those people are being forgotten," Dhowre Elba said.
"The economic fallout of this pandemic is being overlooked and while health, you know, is so important at the moment, we are dealing with a health pandemic, we don't want people to forget about what comes after that."


news--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: Tony Blair sees no end to lockdown without mass testing - as he calls UK response 'slow

Coronavirus: Tony Blair sees no end to lockdown without mass testing - as he calls UK response 'slow'

Boris Johnson 's government was `` probably slow '' in its early response to the coronavirus , Tony Blair has said .
The former prime minister also told Sky News that he `` ca n't see any way out '' of the COVID-19 lockdown without mass testing of the public .
It comes as his Tony Blair Foundation for Global Change laid out a possible exit plan for easing the coronavirus restrictions brought in last month .
Mr Blair , who was in office from 1997 to 2007 , said the outbreak was the `` most complicated and difficult challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And he said his intention in publishing a possible exit strategy was done in the spirit of offering `` constructive advice '' to Mr Johnson .
• Mass testing of the public , `` including the development of the community force '' to help with the process • Ensuring there is `` mask acquisition and production on a vast scale '' for front-line staff • On the development of a vaccine , the report calls for `` utilisation of every means nationally and globally to identify those treatments which can reduce the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new cases fall substantially , the UK could consider easing restrictions by opening schools first • Age segmentation could be implemented , with younger people at much lower risk being allowed to go back to work sooner • In his Sky interview , the former PM suggested tasking a senior minister with specific elements of the COVID-19 response , such as provision of personal protective equipment and mass testing Mr Blair 's contribution comes as the government faces questions over its early response to COVID-19 .
An investigation by The Sunday Times claimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lessen the impact of the virus in the weeks leading up to the lockdown being introduced .
The paper highlighted the fact that Mr Johnson did not attend the first five emergency meetings in the run-up to the coronavirus outbreak in the UK - something that was confirmed to Sky News at the start of March .
Its investigation claimed that ministers ignored dire warnings from scientists - and the UK lost `` a crucial five weeks in the fight to tackle the dangerous threat of coronavirus despite being in a perilously poor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Government whistleblowers , scientists and emergency planners alleged there was complacency at the heart of government in late January and February when it should have been urgently replenishing stockpiles .
This prompted a furious response from Downing Street , with ministers taking to the airwaves and using Twitter to defend Mr Johnson 's response .
And in an unusual move , Number 10 published a 2,000-word rebuttal attempting to pick apart the claims one by one .
It described elements of the Sunday Times ' reporting as `` plainly untrue '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Asked about the criticism of the PM and his top team and whether it was fair , Mr Blair responded : `` This is a hellishly difficult challenge , there 's never been anything like it .
`` It will be very easy to come along in hindsight and say , 'Well you could have done this and you could have done that . '
That will happen , by the way , whether I think it should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just think it 's important ... right now it should n't be the focus of our attention .
`` The focus of our attention should be to make sure that the next phase of this , which is the controlled , managed revival of the economy , happens in the best way possible . ''

Boris Johnson's government was "probably slow" in its early response to the coronavirus, Tony Blair has said.
The former prime minister also told Sky News that he "can't see any way out" of the COVID-19 lockdown without mass testing of the public.
It comes as his Tony Blair Foundation for Global Change laid out a possible exit plan for easing the coronavirus restrictions brought in last month.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:20 Was the lockdown introduced too late?
Mr Blair, who was in office from 1997 to 2007, said the outbreak was the "most complicated and difficult challenge I have ever seen in politics".
And he said his intention in publishing a possible exit strategy was done in the spirit of offering "constructive advice" to Mr Johnson.
Mr Blair's plan includes:
Mass testing of the public, "including the development of the community force" to help with the process
Ensuring there is "mask acquisition and production on a vast scale" for front-line staff
On the development of a vaccine, the report calls for "utilisation of every means nationally and globally to identify those treatments which can reduce the severity of the disease"
Once new cases fall substantially, the UK could consider easing restrictions by opening schools first
Age segmentation could be implemented, with younger people at much lower risk being allowed to go back to work sooner
In his Sky interview, the former PM suggested tasking a senior minister with specific elements of the COVID-19 response, such as provision of personal protective equipment and mass testing
Mr Blair's contribution comes as the government faces questions over its early response to COVID-19.
An investigation by The Sunday Times claimed ministers missed a series of opportunities to lessen the impact of the virus in the weeks leading up to the lockdown being introduced.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 12:10 Minister 'can't put date on schools opening'
The paper highlighted the fact that Mr Johnson did not attend the first five emergency meetings in the run-up to the coronavirus outbreak in the UK - something that was confirmed to Sky News at the start of March.
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Its investigation claimed that ministers ignored dire warnings from scientists - and the UK lost "a crucial five weeks in the fight to tackle the dangerous threat of coronavirus despite being in a perilously poor state of preparation for a pandemic".
Government whistleblowers, scientists and emergency planners alleged there was complacency at the heart of government in late January and February when it should have been urgently replenishing stockpiles.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 8:59 'It is normal for a PM not to be at COBRA'
This prompted a furious response from Downing Street, with ministers taking to the airwaves and using Twitter to defend Mr Johnson's response.
And in an unusual move, Number 10 published a 2,000-word rebuttal attempting to pick apart the claims one by one.
It described elements of the Sunday Times' reporting as "plainly untrue" and "ridiculous".
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Asked about the criticism of the PM and his top team and whether it was fair, Mr Blair responded: "This is a hellishly difficult challenge, there's never been anything like it.
"It will be very easy to come along in hindsight and say, 'Well you could have done this and you could have done that.' That will happen, by the way, whether I think it should happen or not.
"But I just think it's important...right now it shouldn't be the focus of our attention.
"The focus of our attention should be to make sure that the next phase of this, which is the controlled, managed revival of the economy, happens in the best way possible."


news--2020-04-20--Together At Home: What are celeb homes like? Here's our pick of the best (and worst)

The virtual One World : Together At Home concert brought millions of people together over the weekend to raise funds for frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic .
With everyone from organiser Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift to Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney taking part , not only was it a chance to sing along with your favourite stars , it also provided the opportunity for a sneak peek into the homes they are spending the coronavirus lockdown in .
Like your work colleagues on the morning Zoom/Teams meetings , it 's fair to say some went to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to choosing the backdrops to their performances .
Here 's our pick of the best ( and worst ) of the COVID-19 surroundings the celebs are willing to show to the world .
More than 100 artists performed songs as part of the benefit concert , organised by Lady Gaga , the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) and the non-profit group Global Citizen .
The event , which was live-streamed online and broadcast on TV , is the biggest celebrity effort to entertain millions of people in lockdown and raise funds during @ @ @

The virtual One World: Together At Home concert brought millions of people together over the weekend to raise funds for frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With everyone from organiser Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift to Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney taking part, not only was it a chance to sing along with your favourite stars, it also provided the opportunity for a sneak peek into the homes they are spending the coronavirus lockdown in.
Like your work colleagues on the morning Zoom/Teams meetings, it's fair to say some went to more effort than others when it came to choosing the backdrops to their performances.
Here's our pick of the best (and worst) of the COVID-19 surroundings the celebs are willing to show to the world.
Image: Sadly, she wasn't performing from the house from the If You Had My Love video, but still, you can always rely on Jennifer Lopez for a bit of glamour. No glimpse inside, but we did get trees and fairy lights. Top backdrop marks, J-Lo!
Image: But fans of Taylor Swift may have been a little disappointed. The star wasn't revealing much, keeping things simple with just a rose pink watercolour-effect background as she played the piano for an emotional performance of Soon You'll Get Better.
Image: John Legend also kept things simple with a white wall back... hang on a minute, what's on those shelves? Oh, these old things? Nothing much really, just the odd Grammy and a few other (strategically placed) awards. Nothing to see here.
Image: Leigh-Anne Pinnock gave the best Little Mix background: snacks, bar and discs for good measure. Lovely. Jesy Nelson + spangly chandelier came second but Jade Thirlwall (beige curtains) and Perrie Edwards (from a cupboard?) - must try harder. Pic: BBC
Image: Come on, Beyonce! We wanted a peek into the home of Queen Bey. We wanted Blue Ivy and twins Sir and Rumi in the background, perhaps Jay-Z doing the dishes. Nice sky, though, and props for bothering with make-up in lockdown. One for the 'Gram.
Image: Singer and producer Charlie Puth was staying at his parents' house, and is clearly still relying on help to make his bed. Don't worry, it was just the whole world watching. No need to go to any effort on our behalf.
Image: Organiser Lady Gaga's pad looked perhaps uncharacteristically understated for a woman who once wore meat, with just a few twinkly window lights and some candles placed in front of the camera. Very zen.
Image: From the family home in Los Angeles, Billie Eilish and her older brother Finneas O'Connell performed in simple surroundings, with an art deco mirror and some outdoor space in view.
Image: Green Day's Billie-Joe Armstrong displayed his guitar collection and blue cushions but little else as he performed Wake Me Up When September Ends.
Image: Most of The Rolling Stones seemed to have colour-coordinated homes, with brick red the theme of lockdown for (clockwise) Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Charlie Watts. Ronnie Wood missed the memo, but has a nice indoor palm tree so all is forgiven.
Image: Remember that episode of that British DIY home makeover show you can't remember the name of, but definitely happened in the 90s or 00s, where kids took over and built a slide from the top of the house? That appears to have happened to Jimmy Fallon.
Image: No flowers, surprisingly, for Sir Elton John. Instead, he shifted his piano outdoors and chose a big hedge for his backdrop as he performed I'm Still Standing - presumably after shooting some hoops.
Image: The Rocketman was introduced by pals Victoria and David Beckham. Not lots going on here, but 21 years on from their wedding it looks like they're still fans of thrones. Their vid was a little hazy - might want to update your broadband, guys.
Image: Sir Tom Jones went for a mixture of wall art and nostalgia, showing off a picture of the home in Laura Street, South Wales, in which he was born and brought up in. Pic: BBC
Image: Nothing showy from Sir Paul McCartney, with wood cupboards giving nothing away. Although, hang on a minute - is that a Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band logo we spy top left?
More than 100 artists performed songs as part of the benefit concert, organised by Lady Gaga, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the non-profit group Global Citizen.
The event, which was live-streamed online and broadcast on TV, is the biggest celebrity effort to entertain millions of people in lockdown and raise funds during the pandemic.


news--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: You might think Amazon profits are soaring right now. You'd be wrong

Amazon has said it could record its first loss in five years despite a hike in revenue as it spends at least $ 4bn ( £3.2bn ) in response to the coronavirus outbreak .
While other traditional shops have been forced to shut because of the COVID-19 lockdown , the online retailing giant recruited an extra 175,000 workers to cope with a surge in orders during the pandemic .
In the current financial quarter , which has witnessed coronavirus lockdowns around the world , Amazon said it could see a 28 % increase in revenue to $ 81bn ( £65bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company would earn an operating profit of at least $ 4bn ( £3.2bn ) over the period - but the eCommerce giant says its costs will rise by that amount or more as it responds to the pandemic .
The money is being spent on employing additional staff , overtime , buying protective equipment such as masks , and disinfecting its massive warehouses where orders are packed and sent out .
Amazon also has plans to test workers for COVID-19 , as part of measures aimed at ensuring the business can continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The company forecasts its operating income will range from a loss of $ 1.5bn ( £1.2bn ) to a profit of $ 1.5bn , compared with $ 3.1bn ( £2.5bn ) in the same quarter last year .
It came as Amazon reported a profit fall of 29 % in the first quarter of the year as the costs of posting millions of packages to house-bound customers rose .
The Seattle-based company reported net income of $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , compared with $ 3.6bn ( £2.9bn ) a year ago , while revenue was up 26 % $ 75.5bn ( £60bn ) .
While the shares in the firm fell in response , they remain up overall by more than 10 % since mid-February , while the wider stock market has sunk .
Kim Khan , US markets analyst at Investing.com said : `` Amazon built its commanding position by spending all its cash to grow before it became the profit-making machine it is today .
`` It 's doing the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely come out a winner again . ''

Amazon has said it could record its first loss in five years despite a hike in revenue as it spends at least $4bn (£3.2bn) in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
While other traditional shops have been forced to shut because of the COVID-19 lockdown, the online retailing giant recruited an extra 175,000 workers to cope with a surge in orders during the pandemic.
In the current financial quarter, which has witnessed coronavirus lockdowns around the world, Amazon said it could see a 28% increase in revenue to $81bn (£65bn).
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In normal circumstances, the company would earn an operating profit of at least $4bn (£3.2bn) over the period - but the eCommerce giant says its costs will rise by that amount or more as it responds to the pandemic.
The money is being spent on employing additional staff, overtime, buying protective equipment such as masks, and disinfecting its massive warehouses where orders are packed and sent out.
Amazon also has plans to test workers for COVID-19, as part of measures aimed at ensuring the business can continue to operate, amid safety concerns.
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The company forecasts its operating income will range from a loss of $1.5bn (£1.2bn) to a profit of $1.5bn, compared with $3.1bn (£2.5bn) in the same quarter last year.
It came as Amazon reported a profit fall of 29% in the first quarter of the year as the costs of posting millions of packages to house-bound customers rose.
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The Seattle-based company reported net income of $2.5bn (£2bn) for the period, compared with $3.6bn (£2.9bn) a year ago, while revenue was up 26% $75.5bn (£60bn).
While the shares in the firm fell in response, they remain up overall by more than 10% since mid-February, while the wider stock market has sunk.
Kim Khan, US markets analyst at Investing.com said: "Amazon built its commanding position by spending all its
cash to grow before it became the profit-making machine it is today.
"It's doing the same thing during this lockdown period and will likely come out a winner again."


news--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: Charles Tyrwhitt puts its shirt on rival TM Lewin

The shirtmaker Charles Tyrwhitt is plotting a takeover of rival TM Lewin as the coronavirus pandemic accelerates a shake-up of Britain 's fashion retailing sector .
Sky News understands that Charles Tyrwhitt , which was established in 1986 by owner Nick Wheeler , is among a number of parties which submitted offers this week for TM Lewin .
Details of Mr Wheeler 's bid were unclear on Friday , including his interest in retaining his rival 's brand .
Charles Tyrwhitt trades from just over 40 stores in the UK and internationally .
Several other bidders are understood to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is being run by Alantra , a corporate finance firm .
TM Lewin , another London-based shirtmaker , was founded in 1898 .
Bain Capital , the private equity group which has backed TM Lewin through its debt investment arm since 2015 , has been working on plans to offload the business for several weeks .
TM Lewin , which trades from 66 stores in the UK and five in Australia , is renowned as one of the most prominent names on Jermyn Street , the west end street populated by tailors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company 's 700 staff have been furloughed under the government 's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme .
The sale process makes TM Lewin the latest in a string of fashion retailers to explore a change of ownership during a period of extreme financial uncertainty .
Cath Kidston , Debenhams and Oasis and Warehouse Group have all called in administrators in the last month .
The owner of Office , the shoe retailer , is also canvassing interest from potential buyers .

The shirtmaker Charles Tyrwhitt is plotting a takeover of rival TM Lewin as the coronavirus pandemic accelerates a shake-up of Britain's fashion retailing sector.
Sky News understands that Charles Tyrwhitt, which was established in 1986 by owner Nick Wheeler, is among a number of parties which submitted offers this week for TM Lewin.
Details of Mr Wheeler's bid were unclear on Friday, including his interest in retaining his rival's brand.
Charles Tyrwhitt trades from just over 40 stores in the UK and internationally.
Several other bidders are understood to be involved in the TM Lewin auction, which is being run by Alantra, a corporate finance firm.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:38 With no sign as to when countries may lift travel restrictions or if flights may need to carry fewer travellers troubles for BA are mounting.
TM Lewin, another London-based shirtmaker, was founded in 1898.
Bain Capital, the private equity group which has backed TM Lewin through its debt investment arm since 2015, has been working on plans to offload the business for several weeks.
TM Lewin, which trades from 66 stores in the UK and five in Australia, is renowned as one of the most prominent names on Jermyn Street, the west end street populated by tailors and shirtmakers.
Approximately 650 of the company's 700 staff have been furloughed under the government's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:56 The airline has announced that pilots and cabin crews are mainly affected by the job cuts while other employees face pay cuts.
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
The sale process makes TM Lewin the latest in a string of fashion retailers to explore a change of ownership during a period of extreme financial uncertainty.
Cath Kidston, Debenhams and Oasis and Warehouse Group have all called in administrators in the last month.
The owner of Office, the shoe retailer, is also canvassing interest from potential buyers.
Charles Tyrwhitt and TM Lewin declined to comment.


news--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: Restaurant chain Prezzo weighs post-virus options

Prezzo , the Italian restaurant chain , has become the industry 's latest big player to draft in consultants to consider its post-coronavirus funding options .
Sky News has learnt that Prezzo has appointed FRP Advisory , which is currently acting as administrator to Carluccio 's , to explore the implications of the COVID-19 crisis for its balance sheet .
The move comes less than two years after the chain axed dozens of outlets through a financial restructuring that included a debt-for-equity swap .
It now trades from 180 restaurants , all of which the company says were profitable before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prezzo is still owned by TPG , the American buyout giant , with a number of other funds also holding shares in it .
Most of the chain 's 3,000 employees have been furloughed under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme .
The company is run by Karen Jones , its executive chairman , who is one of the best-known figures in Britain 's hospitality industry .
A Prezzo spokeswoman said : `` We entered this entirely unexpected closure after a period of strong trading , which has given us the impetus and momentum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopening .
`` Given the continuing uncertainty around the reopening of hospitality in the UK , appointing advisers is a sensible precautionary measure to ensure we have best advice available to us as we respond to this pandemic and look forward to the important period of reopening . ''
Prezzo 's appointment of FRP comes as restaurant owners across the UK urge the government not to end the lockdown on the industry too quickly , or risk triggering a wave of permanent closures .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spreaker Sky News reported earlier this week that restaurateurs including the celebrity chef Rick Stein and Tom Kerridge - the owner of Britain 's first pub to be awarded two Michelin stars - had been asked to sign an industry-wide letter to Alok Sharma , the business secretary , and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove .
`` We are concerned that opening the restaurant sector too early could lead to a substantial number of businesses failing , given the discrepancy between the costs they will incur and the revenues they will be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` The impact on long-term employment in the sector , and wider economic damage this would cause , would be very painful . ''
The restaurant chiefs ' plea to the government underlines the fears of many in the industry about its post-lockdown recovery , with consumer finances under severe strain and customers concerned about the possible health implications of eating out .
`` We strongly believe that a removal of the lockdown as soon as it safe to do is crucial for the restaurant sector , but we would point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of restaurant businesses as the Government starts to lift lockdown restrictions may be counterproductive , '' the restaurateurs ' letter is understood to say .
`` Unfortunately , it will not be possible for most restaurants to open in an economical way until we can ensure a critical mass of customer visits .
As administrators to Carluccio 's , the restaurant chain which collapsed last month , FRP is now in exclusive talks with the owner of Giraffe about a sale that would preserve some of the company 's 2000 jobs .
Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Wahaca and Byron have called in advisers to help restructure their finances .
In addition to Carluccio 's , Chiquito 's has fallen into administration , while Le Pain Quotidien may finalise a sale using a pre-pack insolvency process .

Prezzo, the Italian restaurant chain, has become the industry's latest big player to draft in consultants to consider its post-coronavirus funding options.
Sky News has learnt that Prezzo has appointed FRP Advisory, which is currently acting as administrator to Carluccio's, to explore the implications of the COVID-19 crisis for its balance sheet.
The move comes less than two years after the chain axed dozens of outlets through a financial restructuring that included a debt-for-equity swap.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:09 The process of getting back to work
It now trades from 180 restaurants, all of which the company says were profitable before the coronavirus outbreak.
A stake in Prezzo is still owned by TPG, the American buyout giant, with a number of other funds also holding shares in it.
Most of the chain's 3,000 employees have been furloughed under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
The company is run by Karen Jones, its executive chairman, who is one of the best-known figures in Britain's hospitality industry.
A Prezzo spokeswoman said: "We entered this entirely unexpected closure after a period of strong trading, which has given us the impetus and momentum to be able to drive through to reopening.
"Given the continuing uncertainty around the reopening of hospitality in the UK, appointing advisers is a sensible precautionary measure to ensure we have best advice available to us as we respond to this pandemic and look forward to the important period of reopening."
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Prezzo's appointment of FRP comes as restaurant owners across the UK urge the government not to end the lockdown on the industry too quickly, or risk triggering a wave of permanent closures.
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
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Sky News reported earlier this week that restaurateurs including the celebrity chef Rick Stein and Tom Kerridge - the owner of Britain's first pub to be awarded two Michelin stars - had been asked to sign an industry-wide letter to Alok Sharma, the business secretary, and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove.
"We are concerned that opening the restaurant sector too early could lead to a substantial number of businesses failing, given the discrepancy between the costs they will incur and the revenues they will be able to achieve," the draft letter said.
"The impact on long-term employment in the sector, and wider economic damage this would cause, would be very painful."
The restaurant chiefs' plea to the government underlines the fears of many in the industry about its post-lockdown recovery, with consumer finances under severe strain and customers concerned about the possible health implications of eating out.
"We strongly believe that a removal of the lockdown as soon as it safe to do is crucial for the restaurant sector, but we would point out that an early, partial reopening of restaurant businesses as the Government starts to lift lockdown restrictions may be counterproductive," the restaurateurs' letter is understood to say.
"Unfortunately, it will not be possible for most restaurants to open in an economical way until we can ensure a critical mass of customer visits.
As administrators to Carluccio's, the restaurant chain which collapsed last month, FRP is now in exclusive talks with the owner of Giraffe about a sale that would preserve some of the company's 2000 jobs.
Since the coronavirus outbreak began, restaurant chains including Wahaca and Byron have called in advisers to help restructure their finances.
In addition to Carluccio's, Chiquito's has fallen into administration, while Le Pain Quotidien may finalise a sale using a pre-pack insolvency process.


news--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: NHS warns BAME staff 'at potentially greater risk'

NHS England has recommended health trusts assess black , Asian and ethnic minority ( BAME ) workers as `` at potentially greater risk '' from coronavirus .
The official guidance says UK and international data indicates people from BAME backgrounds are being `` disproportionately affected by COVID-19 '' .
NHS England has written to all trusts across the nation , advising them to carry out risk assessments for workers from those backgrounds .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens says Public Health England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health and Social Care to investigate the matter .
He added : `` In advance of their report and guidance , on a precautionary basis we recommend employers should risk assess staff at a potentially greater risk and make appropriate arrangements accordingly . ''
While the measure is described as `` precautionary '' , figures show that BAME healthcare workers within the NHS are dying disproportionately with COVID-19 .
Latest Sky News analysis suggests 60 % of the total number of deaths among NHS staff with the disease are from a BAME background @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Care announced on 16 April that a review would be conducted , to investigate why BAME people were being affected disproportionately .
: : Increased underlying health conditions among BAME people , such as heart conditions , type 2 diabetes and respiratory issues : : BAME people are more likely to work in essential roles such as bus drivers , taxi drivers , shop keepers and in health and social care : : BAME families are more likely to live in multi-generational , overcrowded homes than white counterparts .
Dr Habib Naqvi , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equality , previously told Sky News : `` The fact that a high number of black and minority ethnic staff are dying from this pandemic is a worry for us .
`` It 's a challenge for us but we need to rise to that challenge and what we need to do is look at what we can put in place right now to support our staff . ''
Speaking to Sky News , the chair of the British Medical Assosciation Dr Chaand Nagpaul said : `` What this requires is a tool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ status of a doctor as being a risk in its own right .
`` Combining that with other factors such as age , other medical conditions and the sort of work that they do and to put that all together .
`` This is the sort of work academics and scientists do already , what we 're calling for is for NHS itself to develop such a tool which is then applied and used by all employers in the NHS . ''
He added : `` The priority now must be to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthcare workforce .
These are people who are providing such vital care to our NHS . ''
`` There are many ways in which our healthcare workers can be used without putting themselves at risk .
What we need to do is identify who they are and put them in work where they 're not in high risk of the infection .
`` We must protect them properly and allow them to provide a service to the NHS . ''
Dr Nagpaul called for such measures to take place at the beginning of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BAME people were being disproportionately affected .
He feels that had this been brought in earlier , lives potentially could have been saved .

NHS England has recommended health trusts assess black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) workers as "at potentially greater risk" from coronavirus.
The official guidance says UK and international data indicates people from BAME backgrounds are being "disproportionately affected by COVID-19".
NHS England has written to all trusts across the nation, advising them to carry out risk assessments for workers from those backgrounds.
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 the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens says Public Health England has been asked by the Department for Health and Social Care to investigate the matter.
He added: "In advance of their report and guidance, on a precautionary basis we recommend employers should risk assess staff at a potentially greater risk and make appropriate arrangements accordingly."
While the measure is described as "precautionary", figures show that BAME healthcare workers within the NHS are dying disproportionately with COVID-19.
Latest Sky News analysis suggests 60% of the total number of deaths among NHS staff with the disease are from a BAME background.
The Department of Health and Social Care announced on 16 April that a review would be conducted, to investigate why BAME people were being affected disproportionately.
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Scientists have already highlighted factors including:
:: Increased underlying health conditions among BAME people, such as heart conditions, type 2 diabetes and respiratory issues
:: BAME people are more likely to work in essential roles such as bus drivers, taxi drivers, shop keepers and in health and social care
:: BAME families are more likely to live in multi-generational, overcrowded homes than white counterparts.
Dr Habib Naqvi, the NHS director for workforce race and equality, previously told Sky News: "The fact that a high number of black and minority ethnic staff are dying from this pandemic is a worry for us.
"It's a challenge for us but we need to rise to that challenge and what we need to do is look at what we can put in place right now to support our staff."
Speaking to Sky News, the chair of the British Medical Assosciation Dr Chaand Nagpaul said: "What this requires is a tool that will take into account the BAME status of a doctor as being a risk in its own right.
"Combining that with other factors such as age, other medical conditions and the sort of work that they do and to put that all together.
"This is the sort of work academics and scientists do already, what we're calling for is for NHS itself to develop such a tool which is then applied and used by all employers in the NHS."
He added: "The priority now must be to avoid any further unnecessary deaths of our BAME healthcare workforce. These are people who are providing such vital care to our NHS."
"There are many ways in which our healthcare workers can be used without putting themselves at risk. What we need to do is identify who they are and put them in work where they're not in high risk of the infection.
"We must protect them properly and allow them to provide a service to the NHS."
Dr Nagpaul called for such measures to take place at the beginning of the month when signs were emerging that BAME people were being disproportionately affected. He feels that had this been brought in earlier, lives potentially could have been saved.