news--2020-03-28--Ironbridge faces new challenge of coronavirus after being hit by severe flooding just weeks ago

Normally the streets of Ironbridge in Shropshire would be bustling with tourists enjoying the world heritage site on a sunny day .
But there 's hardly anyone out , and almost every business is closed .
Having suffered the worst flooding in living memory just five weeks ago , no one realised that the next thing they 'd face was a global pandemic .
Vic Haddock 's home and holiday let were flooded , and his canoe business ca n't operate , but he 's stoic about the challenge of coronavirus .
`` I do n't know where my next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's gone , '' the retired steelworker said .
`` Entering a new industry , the leisure industry , and the whole thing is on standstill now is n't it ?
`` You know , we 've spent everything we 've got ... my compensation , I cashed my pension ...
I suppose I 'm a bit deflated but it 's not going to beat me and it should n't beat anyone .
We 've got to fight this altogether . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ door , one of the oldest houses in the town is still drying out after the floods .
Dad Rob is working from home on his laptop outside .
`` We are concerned because we do n't know what 's going to happen or how bad it 's going to be , '' he said .
`` With the flooding , at least we knew that the water would recede in a few days or so .
We have no idea when COVID-19 will go . ''
The family 's replacement kitchen is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but ca n't be fitted - so they 're making do with microwave meals .
Mum Debbie said : `` It 's balancing the time between home schooling and still having to clean things from the floods because there are still contaminated goods and finding some fun time for Amelia ( their daughter ) .
2020 has n't been too fun so far , but we 're doing ok. '' As part of her lesson , their daughter Amelia , 11 , has drawn a poster with a rainbow on which reads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She 's hung it from the window , and says it 's to `` keep people happy '' .
In the town , one of the few people we see is a man wearing a face mask and protective gloves going to pick up his mail .
He 's Martin Curry and he explains that he bought Peaky Barbers shop just before the floods hit in February and it 's hardly been open .
`` Even the floods now , they 're yesterdays news .
Now it 's 'are we all going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs ? '
.
`` I think genuinely people are still not taking it seriously enough so businesses like mine , we closed our doors early to make sure we were n't responsible for the spread of virus . ''
He hopes that the town will be open for the much-needed business sooner , if visitors heed the warnings to stay away for now .

Normally the streets of Ironbridge in Shropshire would be bustling with tourists enjoying the world heritage site on a sunny day.
But there's hardly anyone out, and almost every business is closed.
Having suffered the worst flooding in living memory just five weeks ago, no one realised that the next thing they'd face was a global pandemic.
Image: Vic Haddock says his community has to 'fight' the new challenge of coronavirus 'altogether'
Vic Haddock's home and holiday let were flooded, and his canoe business can't operate, but he's stoic about the challenge of coronavirus.
"I don't know where my next penny is coming from because my livelihood's gone," the retired steelworker said. "Entering a new industry, the leisure industry, and the whole thing is on standstill now isn't it?
"You know, we've spent everything we've got... my compensation, I cashed my pension... I suppose I'm a bit deflated but it's not going to beat me and it shouldn't beat anyone. We've got to fight this altogether."
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Next door, one of the oldest houses in the town is still drying out after the floods. Dad Rob is working from home on his laptop outside.
"We are concerned because we don't know what's going to happen or how bad it's going to be," he said.
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"With the flooding, at least we knew that the water would recede in a few days or so. We have no idea when COVID-19 will go."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:29 Emergency evacuation in Ironbridge
The family's replacement kitchen is on hold - it's on order, but can't be fitted - so they're making do with microwave meals.
Mum Debbie said: "It's balancing the time between home schooling and still having to clean things from the floods because there are still contaminated goods and finding some fun time for Amelia (their daughter). 2020 hasn't been too fun so far, but we're doing ok."
Image: '2020 hasn't been too fun so far, but we're doing ok.' says Amelia's mum Debbie
As part of her lesson, their daughter Amelia, 11, has drawn a poster with a rainbow on which reads "everything will be ok". She's hung it from the window, and says it's to "keep people happy".
In the town, one of the few people we see is a man wearing a face mask and protective gloves going to pick up his mail.
He's Martin Curry and he explains that he bought Peaky Barbers shop just before the floods hit in February and it's hardly been open.
Image: Martin Curry, the owner of Peaky Barbers, hopes his business will be reopening soon
"Even the floods now, they're yesterdays news. Now it's 'are we all going to be ok? Is there anything anyone needs?'.
"I think genuinely people are still not taking it seriously enough so businesses like mine, we closed our doors early to make sure we weren't responsible for the spread of virus."
He hopes that the town will be open for the much-needed business sooner, if visitors heed the warnings to stay away for now.


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: Lockdown seems to have a very different meaning depending on where in the world you liv

Coronavirus: Lockdown seems to have a very different meaning depending on where in the world you live

People in the UK have been told to remain in the house for all but essential travel and once-daily exercise in a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus - but countries around the world seem to have different interpretations of lockdown .
With more than one-fifth of the world 's population affected by COVID-19 , here 's a snapshot of the lockdown exceptions that have been put in place : In America , golf , guns and marijuana rate pretty high on the critical list .
Connecticut governor Ned Lamont added gun shops to his list of essential businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of families of gun violence victims .
Texas attorney general Ken Paxton also issued a legal opinion saying emergency orders in his state can not restrict gun sales .
Texas lieutenant governor Dan Patrick told a radio interviewer : `` If you have a breakdown in society , well then our first line to defend ourselves is ourselves , so I think having a weapon is very important for your personal safety . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker In a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Arizona governor Doug Ducey included golf courses on his list of essential services .
Officials in Phoenix encouraged the city 's 1.7 million residents to `` get outside , get exercise and practice responsible social distancing '' in golf courses , parks and trails .
New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu said flower shops are among the essentials .
His spokesman Ben Vihstadt said they provide essential services for funeral homes .
Several states where marijuana is legal , such as California and Washington , deemed pot shops and workers in the market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , executive director of the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws , said : `` Cannabis is a safe and effective treatment that millions of Americans rely on to maintain productive daily lives while suffering from diseases and ailments .
`` It is the very definition of essential that these individuals can still access their medicine at this time . ''
In New Zealand 's capital city of Wellington , United Video Hataitai has been declared an essential service .
The only video store in the city , it currently has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven-day hires .
In a short video on the rental store 's Twitter page , a chipper looking employee tells customers : `` Because it 's the apocalypse , we 've got some really sweet deals going on . ''
Before bursting into song , he advises : `` Hunker down and enjoy the lockdown . ''
New Zealand filmmaker and actor Taika Waititi shared the video , and after suggestions he should turn it into a film he joked `` all the elements are there .
It 's perfect '' , before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In France , shops specialising in pastry , wine and cheese have been declared essential businesses .
Some stereotypes , it appears , are richly deserved .
Italy , which is ahead of most other countries in the outbreak , has the most stringent rules , with only essential businesses such as food shops and pharmacies remaining open .
The manufacturing sector has been temporarily shut down , although factories that make products like medical supplies will continue to operate after making conditions safer for employees .
With more and more people stuck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has increased the world over .
People are relying on connectivity to communicate , stream movies and play games online in a bid to ward off cabin fever .
With that in mind , India has declared the information technology sector as essential .
Recognised for its vibrant religious life , people in Israel are permitted to gather for outdoor prayers , with a maximum of 10 worshippers standing two metres apart .
China was the first country to battle the virus , and authorities closed most businesses and public facilities beginning in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supermarkets and pharmacies .
Health care workers , law enforcement , utility workers , food production and communications are generally exempt from lockdowns across the world .

People in the UK have been told to remain in the house for all but essential travel and once-daily exercise in a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus - but countries around the world seem to have different interpretations of lockdown.
With more than one-fifth of the world's population affected by COVID-19, here's a snapshot of the lockdown exceptions that have been put in place:
USA
In America, golf, guns and marijuana rate pretty high on the critical list.
Image: The president is a golf lover and owns a clutch of courses
Connecticut governor Ned Lamont added gun shops to his list of essential businesses, much to the shock and dismay of families of gun violence victims.
Texas attorney general Ken Paxton also issued a legal opinion saying emergency orders in his state cannot restrict gun sales.
Texas lieutenant governor Dan Patrick told a radio interviewer: "If you have a breakdown in society, well then our first line to defend ourselves is ourselves, so I think having a weapon is very important for your personal safety."
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
In a move that would surely please President Trump, Arizona governor Doug Ducey included golf courses on his list of essential services.
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Officials in Phoenix encouraged the city's 1.7 million residents to "get outside, get exercise and practice responsible social distancing" in golf courses, parks and trails.
Image: Marijuana is considered medicine by some
New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu said flower shops are among the essentials.
His spokesman Ben Vihstadt said they provide essential services for funeral homes.
Several states where marijuana is legal, such as California and Washington, deemed pot shops and workers in the market's supply chain essential.
Erik Altieri, executive director of the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, said: "Cannabis is a safe and effective treatment that millions of Americans rely on to maintain productive daily lives while suffering from diseases and ailments.
"It is the very definition of essential that these individuals can still access their medicine at this time."
NEW ZEALAND
In New Zealand's capital city of Wellington, United Video Hataitai has been declared an essential service.
Image: Taika Waititi joked the essential video shop would make the 'perfect' film plot
The only video store in the city, it currently has a special offer on all Steven Seagal seven-day hires.
In a short video on the rental store's Twitter page, a chipper looking employee tells customers: "Because it's the apocalypse, we've got some really sweet deals going on."
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
Before bursting into song, he advises: "Hunker down and enjoy the lockdown."
New Zealand filmmaker and actor Taika Waititi shared the video, and after suggestions he should turn it into a film he joked "all the elements are there. It's perfect", before adding "do the deal".
FRANCE
In France, shops specialising in pastry, wine and cheese have been declared essential businesses.
Some stereotypes, it appears, are richly deserved.
Image: Bien sur, in France wine and croissants are considered essentials
ITALY
Italy, which is ahead of most other countries in the outbreak, has the most stringent rules, with only essential businesses such as food shops and pharmacies remaining open.
The manufacturing sector has been temporarily shut down, although factories that make products like medical supplies will continue to operate after making conditions safer for employees.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 COVID-19: How does coronavirus quarantine work?
INDIA
With more and more people stuck at home, dependency on the internet has increased the world over. People are relying on connectivity to communicate, stream movies and play games online in a bid to ward off cabin fever.
Image: Those stuck at home are turning to the internet
With that in mind, India has declared the information technology sector as essential.
ISRAEL
Recognised for its vibrant religious life, people in Israel are permitted to gather for outdoor prayers, with a maximum of 10 worshippers standing two metres apart.
CHINA
China was the first country to battle the virus, and authorities closed most businesses and public facilities beginning in late January but kept open hospitals, supermarkets and pharmacies.
AND THE REST...
Health care workers, law enforcement, utility workers, food production and communications are generally exempt from lockdowns across the world.


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: France moves patients on high-speed trains to ease pressure on worst-hit hospitals

Thirty-six critically-ill coronavirus patients have been transferred across France in two high-speed trains .
They were transported from eastern France , where hospitals risk becoming overwhelmed , to the Nouvelle-Acquitaine region in the southwest .
`` We urgently need to relieve congestion in the region 's intensive care units , because you have to stay one step ahead , '' Francois Braun , head of SAMU paramedics , told RTL radio .
Carriages carrying 36 people were specially converted , and a line of ambulances waited outside Bordeaux station on their arrival .
Paramedics in hazmat suits also loaded several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A400M aircraft in Strasbourg and transferred them across the border to the German city of Ulm .
The first region to be hit by coronavirus was Grand Est in northeastern France , before the pandemic moved west and began to engulf the Paris area .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker French health authorities reported another 292 new deaths from COVID-19 on Sunday - a 13 % rise on the previous day .
The total number of deaths since 1 March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reaching 40,174 .
Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has warned the country 's 67 million people that the toughest weeks are still ahead .
Ventilators are being removed from operating theatres and student doctors are being drafted in .
As in the UK , retired doctors are returning to the wards .
President Emmanuel Macron has brought in the army to help move those unwell with COVID-19 , while a field hospital has been set up in the eastern city of Mulhouse .

Thirty-six critically-ill coronavirus patients have been transferred across France in two high-speed trains.
They were transported from eastern France, where hospitals risk becoming overwhelmed, to the Nouvelle-Acquitaine region in the southwest.
"We urgently need to relieve congestion in the region's intensive care units, because you have to stay one step ahead," Francois Braun, head of SAMU paramedics, told RTL radio.
Image: Gas cylinders being loaded onto a train. Pic: Interior Minister/J Groissard
Image: Paramedics carrying a patient onto a German military plane in Strasbourg
Carriages carrying 36 people were specially converted, and a line of ambulances waited outside Bordeaux station on their arrival.
Paramedics in hazmat suits also loaded several patients on life-support onto a German Airbus A400M aircraft in Strasbourg and transferred them across the border to the German city of Ulm.
The first region to be hit by coronavirus was Grand Est in northeastern France, before the pandemic moved west and began to engulf the Paris area.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
French health authorities reported another 292 new deaths from COVID-19 on Sunday - a 13% rise on the previous day.
The total number of deaths since 1 March is now 2,606, with known infections reaching 40,174.
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Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has warned the country's 67 million people that the toughest weeks are still ahead.
Ventilators are being removed from operating theatres and student doctors are being drafted in.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 The empty streets of Paris
As in the UK, retired doctors are returning to the wards.
President Emmanuel Macron has brought in the army to help move those unwell with COVID-19, while a field hospital has been set up in the eastern city of Mulhouse.


news--2020-03-29--Testing times | Michael Gove, Tony Blair & Rosena Allin-Khan

Michael Gove says the UK is now testing 10,000 people a day for coronavirus .
But he refuses to be @ @ @ @ @ are likely to be lifted .
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair calls for testing of @ @ @ @ @ .
Labour MP Dr Rosena Allin-Khan makes the same plea on testing , just after @ @ @ @ @ A & E .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker

Michael Gove says the UK is now testing 10,000 people a day for coronavirus.
But he refuses to be drawn on when lockdown measures are likely to be lifted. Former Prime Minister Tony Blair calls for testing of almost the entire UK population. Labour MP Dr Rosena Allin-Khan makes the same plea on testing, just after finishing a night shift in A&E.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: Deliveroo pledges 500,000 free meals for NHS workers

Deliveroo , the food delivery service , is to deliver 500,000 free meals to NHS workers across Britain as the coronavirus pandemic intensifies .
Sky News has learnt that the company will announce later on Sunday that it has begun delivering the meals to NHS trusts , and that it is changing its app to allow customers to donate funds for buying meals for doctors and nurses .
Sources said Deliveroo was in the process of signing up restaurant partners and corporate sponsors to support the initiative .
The company will also make a financial contribution of its own to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ massive outpouring of public and corporate support in Britain for the NHS , amid concerns about the quality and availability of health workers ' protective equipment .
Pizza Hut 's UK operation has committed to donating 300,000 free meals as part of the Deliveroo announcement , according to an insider , while Itsu , the Japanese food chain , also plans to participate .
Deliveroo is understood to be planning to deliver meals in bulk to NHS sites when workers are at the end of their shift .
Its delivery plans include to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set up across the country , including the new Nightingale Hospital at London 's ExCel Centre .
The company will also continue to deliver free food to vulnerable groups during the pandemic .
The pledge from Deliveroo is the latest in a series of benevolent acts by major companies around the world as the scale of the COVID-19 crisis has become apparent .
Some companies , including the giant American bank JPMorgan Chase , have chosen to make cash donations to combating the virus , while others , including Diageo , chemicals giant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retooled production lines to help curtail infections by making hand sanitiser .
Others , such as the pubs chain JD Wetherspoon and Frasers , the sports goods chain controlled by Mike Ashley , have instead cast themselves as corporate villains by showing a callous disregard for their employees .
Matt Hancock , the health secretary , who was diagnosed with coronavirus on Friday , said : `` The nation needs the NHS like never before , and we must support every single colleague in the NHS .
`` I 'm delighted that Deliveroo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this great national effort with half a million meals for the NHS .
`` We can best come through this if we pull together . ''
Deliveroo 's free meals pledge comes days after its founder and chief executive , Will Shu , wrote to Boris Johnson to urge the government to promote the safety of restaurant food amid fears for the viability of thousands of outlets .
Sky News revealed last week that Carluccio 's , the Italian food chain , was on the brink of filing for administration .
Will Shu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Those in the NHS working night and day to save lives are the real heroes of this crisis , and we want to do our small part to support them and the vulnerable who are n't able to leave their homes .
`` Deliveroo is a British business and , as the founder , nothing would make me more proud than to use the network we have built to support the NHS , and I know the restaurant sector wants to play its part too . ''
The role of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of the impact of COVID-19 has triggered fresh debate about the power and influence of the sector , particularly in areas such as its sophisticated use of customer data .
Some of those businesses , such as Uber and Amazon , have offered the government their technology and logistical expertise as they seek to repaint themselves as valuable corporate citizens .
Deliveroo has reduced its 'onboarding ' fee to new restaurants since the outbreak of the crisis , and now offers same-day payment to outlets in an effort to help alleviate their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though , reportedly been teething problems for self-isolating riders in securing the proof they need to provide the food delivery app in order to guarantee their continued work for the company .

Deliveroo, the food delivery service, is to deliver 500,000 free meals to NHS workers across Britain as the coronavirus pandemic intensifies.
Sky News has learnt that the company will announce later on Sunday that it has begun delivering the meals to NHS trusts, and that it is changing its app to allow customers to donate funds for buying meals for doctors and nurses.
Sources said Deliveroo was in the process of signing up restaurant partners and corporate sponsors to support the initiative.
The company will also make a financial contribution of its own to the project.
It comes after a massive outpouring of public and corporate support in Britain for the NHS, amid concerns about the quality and availability of health workers' protective equipment.
Pizza Hut's UK operation has committed to donating 300,000 free meals as part of the Deliveroo announcement, according to an insider, while Itsu, the Japanese food chain, also plans to participate.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:02 Nation applauds coronavirus health workers
Deliveroo is understood to be planning to deliver meals in bulk to NHS sites when workers are at the end of their shift.
Its delivery plans include to the new network of field hospitals being set up across the country, including the new Nightingale Hospital at London's ExCel Centre.
The company will also continue to deliver free food to vulnerable groups during the pandemic.
Advertisement
The pledge from Deliveroo is the latest in a series of benevolent acts by major companies around the world as the scale of the COVID-19 crisis has become apparent.
Some companies, including the giant American bank JPMorgan Chase, have chosen to make cash donations to combating the virus, while others, including Diageo, chemicals giant Ineos and luxury goods group LVMH have retooled production lines to help curtail infections by making hand sanitiser.
Others, such as the pubs chain JD Wetherspoon and Frasers, the sports goods chain controlled by Mike Ashley, have instead cast themselves as corporate villains by showing a callous disregard for their employees.
Matt Hancock, the health secretary, who was diagnosed with coronavirus on Friday, said: "The nation needs the NHS like never before, and we must support every single colleague in the NHS.
"I'm delighted that Deliveroo and partners are playing their part in this great national effort with half a million meals for the NHS.
"We can best come through this if we pull together."
Deliveroo's free meals pledge comes days after its founder and chief executive, Will Shu, wrote to Boris Johnson to urge the government to promote the safety of restaurant food amid fears for the viability of thousands of outlets.
Sky News revealed last week that Carluccio's, the Italian food chain, was on the brink of filing for administration.
Will Shu, CEO and founder of Deliveroo, said: "Those in the NHS working night and day to save lives are the real heroes of this crisis, and we want to do our small part to support them and the vulnerable who aren't able to leave their homes.
"Deliveroo is a British business and, as the founder, nothing would make me more proud than to use the network we have built to support the NHS, and I know the restaurant sector wants to play its part too."
The role of big technology companies in helping to mitigate some of the impact of COVID-19 has triggered fresh debate about the power and influence of the sector, particularly in areas such as its sophisticated use of customer data.
Some of those businesses, such as Uber and Amazon, have offered the government their technology and logistical expertise as they seek to repaint themselves as valuable corporate citizens.
Deliveroo has reduced its 'onboarding' fee to new restaurants since the outbreak of the crisis, and now offers same-day payment to outlets in an effort to help alleviate their cash flow challenges.
There have, though, reportedly been teething problems for self-isolating riders in securing the proof they need to provide the food delivery app in order to guarantee their continued work for the company.


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: Consultant Amged El-Hawrani dies after testing positive for COVID-19

A frontline NHS consultant has died after testing positive for the coronavirus .
Amged El-Hawrani was an ear , nose and throat specialist at Queen 's Hospital Burton .
The 55-year-old died on Saturday night at Glenfield Hospital in Leicester .
It was understood he had not been in contact with patients in recent weeks .
Dr El-Hawrani is the first frontline hospital worker in the UK to die after contracting COVID-19 .
His 18-year-old son Ashraf said : `` Most of my dad 's time was dedicated towards his family , and the rest of that time was dedicated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me the significance of respect and equality .
He also stressed the importance of not worrying about the things I can not control , which he displayed to me right up until the end of his life .
`` He did not seek the praise and approval of others , he was satisfied by viewing the positive effects of his actions and the wellbeing of his family .
I am incredibly proud to say that for 18 years of my life , Amged El-Hawrani was my father . ''
A family spokesperson added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much-loved husband , son , father , brother , and friend .
`` His greatest passions were his family and his profession , and he dedicated his life to both .
`` He was the rock of our family , incredibly strong , compassionate , caring and giving . ''
Gavin Boyle , chief executive at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton ( UHDB ) , said : `` I want to pay tribute to Mr Amged El-Hawrani , who has sadly passed away . ''
He added : `` ( Mr El-Hawrani @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitment to his patients .
He had also raised funds for the hospitals , including climbing in the Himalayas with a group of friends some years ago .
The whole UHDB family are desperately saddened at losing Amged who was such a valued and much-loved colleague .
`` On behalf of everyone here at UHDB , including our patients and the communities we serve , I would like to offer our sincere condolences to his family . ''
England 's deputy chief medical officer , Dr Jenny Harries , said : `` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is worrying for the nation because it is another death in our statistics , it is another loss to a family .
`` And it will be a loss to an NHS family as well . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Dr El-Hawrani 's death came before another 207 people were confirmed to have died after testing positive for the virus in the UK , bringing the total to 1,235 .
Meanwhile , the British Medical Association has written to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that more than 50 doctors have now died after contracting the virus there .
The BMA has warned that these fatalities `` must serve as an urgent warning to the British government over the supply of personal protective equipment to doctors and healthcare workers in the UK '' .
In the letter , Dr Chaand Nagpaul wrote : `` British doctors have looked to Italy with trepidation as the spread here continues , as we are naturally concerned that we may face a challenge of the same scale within weeks .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ colleagues in the most harrowing circumstances is an inspiration to us .
`` We have particularly noted with frustration your calls for proper personal protective equipment go unheeded .
`` The death of one doctor is a tragedy , but to lose more than 50 is a catastrophe . ''
According to the BMA , doctors in British hospitals and GP practices are continually warning that they do not have anywhere near enough personal protective equipment , items are being rationed , or the standard of equipment is substandard .
`` The BMA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PPE : without a proper supply and adequate protection , doctors will become infected and ill , and some will die , '' the letter adds .
During the daily Downing Street news conference , Housing , Communities and Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick said teams are working `` around the clock '' to deliver equipment to frontline NHS staff - with 170 million masks , 42.8 million gloves and 2.3 million pairs of eye protectors delivered to 58,000 healthcare facilities so far .

A frontline NHS consultant has died after testing positive for the coronavirus.
Amged El-Hawrani was an ear, nose and throat specialist at Queen's Hospital Burton.
The 55-year-old died on Saturday night at Glenfield Hospital in Leicester. It was understood he had not been in contact with patients in recent weeks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 'The situation will get worse before it gets better'
Dr El-Hawrani is the first frontline hospital worker in the UK to die after contracting COVID-19.
His 18-year-old son Ashraf said: "Most of my dad's time was dedicated towards his family, and the rest of that time was dedicated towards his profession.
"He taught me the significance of respect and equality. He also stressed the importance of not worrying about the things I cannot control, which he displayed to me right up until the end of his life.
"He did not seek the praise and approval of others, he was satisfied by viewing the positive effects of his actions and the wellbeing of his family. I am incredibly proud to say that for 18 years of my life, Amged El-Hawrani was my father."
A family spokesperson added: "Amged was a loving and much-loved husband, son, father, brother, and friend.
"His greatest passions were his family and his profession, and he dedicated his life to both.
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"He was the rock of our family, incredibly strong, compassionate, caring and giving."
Gavin Boyle, chief executive at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton (UHDB), said: "I want to pay tribute to Mr Amged El-Hawrani, who has sadly passed away."
He added: "(Mr El-Hawrani) was known for his dedication and commitment to his patients. He had also raised funds for the hospitals, including climbing in the Himalayas with a group of friends some years ago. The whole UHDB family are desperately saddened at losing Amged who was such a valued and much-loved colleague.
"On behalf of everyone here at UHDB, including our patients and the communities we serve, I would like to offer our sincere condolences to his family."
England's deputy chief medical officer, Dr Jenny Harries, said: "It clearly is a worrying event, it is worrying for the nation because it is another death in our statistics, it is another loss to a family.
"And it will be a loss to an NHS family as well."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Dr El-Hawrani's death came before another 207 people were confirmed to have died after testing positive for the virus in the UK, bringing the total to 1,235.
Meanwhile, the British Medical Association has written to its counterparts in Italy after it emerged that more than 50 doctors have now died after contracting the virus there.
The BMA has warned that these fatalities "must serve as an urgent warning to the British government over the supply of personal protective equipment to doctors and healthcare workers in the UK".
In the letter, Dr Chaand Nagpaul wrote: "British doctors have looked to Italy with trepidation as the spread here continues, as we are naturally concerned that we may face a challenge of the same scale within weeks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:19 Inside Italy's virus crisis wards
"The bravery and compassion shown by our Italian colleagues in the most harrowing circumstances is an inspiration to us.
"We have particularly noted with frustration your calls for proper personal protective equipment go unheeded.
"The death of one doctor is a tragedy, but to lose more than 50 is a catastrophe."
According to the BMA, doctors in British hospitals and GP practices are continually warning that they do not have anywhere near enough personal protective equipment, items are being rationed, or the standard of equipment is substandard.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 UK lockdown '10 days too late'
"The BMA has been unequivocal in its warnings about PPE: without a proper supply and adequate protection, doctors will become infected and ill, and some will die," the letter adds.
During the daily Downing Street news conference, Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick said teams are working "around the clock" to deliver equipment to frontline NHS staff - with 170 million masks, 42.8 million gloves and 2.3 million pairs of eye protectors delivered to 58,000 healthcare facilities so far.


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: Self-isolating London man runs half marathon on balcony

Time spent self-isolating can be quite repetitive , but Sam Hustler has taken this monotony to new heights .
The 27-year-old is running a half marathon for charity on his four-metre-long east London balcony .
That 's roughly 5,500 lengths each way .
Mr Hustler had planned to join 14,000 other runners for the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 29 March before the coronavirus pandemic forced it to be postponed .
But he was glad he would still be able to compete in his first half marathon when the event organisers got creative and replaced the race with a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where participants run around their local area and snap photos of their local sights .
Less than a week before the race , his girlfriend started showing symptoms of COVID-19 which meant he would have to self-isolate for two weeks .
Refusing to accept defeat , he devised a plan C. '' I saw a video of an Italian man doing a full marathon on his balcony and I thought , 'that 's something I can do ' , '' Mr Hustler told Sky News while running on his balcony .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did a couple of kilometres and thought I could do it .
It 's just over four metres in length . ''
The Woodford man had run just under four miles in an hour when he spoke to Sky News , and had quite quickly realised the challenges of running in a confined and uncomfortable space .
`` My ankles are in quite a bit of pain already .
But I 'll keep going - it 's just a little niggle .
I 'm changing directions and the way I 'm running back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ podcast list , music collection and encouragement from his girlfriend Chloe , who cheered him on from inside his flat , for keeping him going .
And there was a special cause that motivated him to reach his goal of running the 13 miles in three hours .
`` I 'm running for the Haven House Children 's Hospice , which is a local charity that I 've known for a long time and is opposite my cricket club , '' he said .
`` What they do is quite outstanding .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than half in the past few days . ''
Although Mr Hustler missed out on running past some of London 's famous landmarks , he said the sights from his third-floor balcony could be worse , adding he could `` just about see Canary Wharf '' .
Sky News checked up on Mr Hustler later in the day and learned he had completed it in three hours , 45 mins . ''
`` I 'm massively proud as in the past few hours I 've managed to raise some more so it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although I ca n't feel anything below my shins at the moment . ''
Asked whether he would tackle a full marathon on the balcony next , he said he 'll `` try a half one on the road first '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Hustler is not the only long-distance runner improvising during lockdown .
Southampton man Gareth Allen reportedly ran 1,066 laps in his garden on Saturday to make up the distance of a marathon .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ attracted 300,000 views and many comments praising his creativity and perseverance .

Time spent self-isolating can be quite repetitive, but Sam Hustler has taken this monotony to new heights.
The 27-year-old is running a half marathon for charity on his four-metre-long east London balcony.
That's roughly 5,500 lengths each way.
Mr Hustler had planned to join 14,000 other runners for the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 29 March before the coronavirus pandemic forced it to be postponed.
But he was glad he would still be able to compete in his first half marathon when the event organisers got creative and replaced the race with a "virtual" local landmarks run instead, where participants run around their local area and snap photos of their local sights.
Image: Sam Hustler runs a half marathon on his balcony to raise money for a children's hospice while self-isolating
Less than a week before the race, his girlfriend started showing symptoms of COVID-19 which meant he would have to self-isolate for two weeks.
Refusing to accept defeat, he devised a plan C.
"I saw a video of an Italian man doing a full marathon on his balcony and I thought, 'that's something I can do'," Mr Hustler told Sky News while running on his balcony.
"I went outside on to my balcony and did a couple of kilometres and thought I could do it. It's just over four metres in length."
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The Woodford man had run just under four miles in an hour when he spoke to Sky News, and had quite quickly realised the challenges of running in a confined and uncomfortable space.
"I'm feeling incredibly bored," he said.
"My ankles are in quite a bit of pain already. But I'll keep going - it's just a little niggle. I'm changing directions and the way I'm running back and forth."
He credited his podcast list, music collection and encouragement from his girlfriend Chloe, who cheered him on from inside his flat, for keeping him going.
And there was a special cause that motivated him to reach his goal of running the 13 miles in three hours.
"I'm running for the Haven House Children's Hospice, which is a local charity that I've known for a long time and is opposite my cricket club," he said.
"What they do is quite outstanding. I've raised about £500 for them; more than half in the past few days."
Although Mr Hustler missed out on running past some of London's famous landmarks, he said the sights from his third-floor balcony could be worse, adding he could "just about see Canary Wharf".
Sky News checked up on Mr Hustler later in the day and learned he had completed it in three hours, 45 mins."
"I'm massively proud as in the past few hours I've managed to raise some more so it's totaled about £900."
"Although I can't feel anything below my shins at the moment."
Asked whether he would tackle a full marathon on the balcony next, he said he'll "try a half one on the road first".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Hustler is not the only long-distance runner improvising during lockdown.
Southampton man Gareth Allen reportedly ran 1,066 laps in his garden on Saturday to make up the distance of a marathon.
A video of the achievement posted online attracted 300,000 views and many comments praising his creativity and perseverance.


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: Another 207 people die after testing positive in the UK

Another 207 people have died in the UK after testing positive for coronavirus , taking the total to 1,235 .
The number , which was down from the previous day 's 259 , counts those who died in the 24 hours up to 5pm on Saturday .
In England , 190 more people have died in that time after testing positive for COVID-19 .
NHS England said those who died were aged between 39 and 105 , and all but four patients - aged between 57 and 87 - had underlying health conditions .
England 's total number of deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health said 1,228 people had died across the UK but NHS England then released a higher figure for the country .
A further 10 people have died in Wales , taking the total deaths there to 48 .
One person died in Scotland and six in Northern Ireland .
According to NHS England , 15 people died at Barts Health NHS Trust in the City of London and east London - the most in the country .
It was followed by the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust in north London , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven deaths each at Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust , Mid Essex Hospital Service NHS Trust and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust .
The increase in deaths came as the government warned the nationwide lockdown could go on for a `` significant '' time .
: : Listen to the Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove told Sky News the length of the lockdown has not been decided but scientists at Imperial College , who are advising the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until late May or early June .
Mr Gove warned the lockdown would be longer if people do not stick to the rules .
Antibody testing for frontline NHS staff started this weekend after the government faced criticism for not doing so .
Mr Gove said the number of tests carried out is now at 10,000 a day but will increase to 25,000 a day .
However , senior figures have called for mass testing , with former prime minister Tony Blair saying `` virtually everybody '' in the UK may have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hunt also called for mass testing , as well as contact tracing .

Another 207 people have died in the UK after testing positive for coronavirus, taking the total to 1,235.
The number, which was down from the previous day's 259, counts those who died in the 24 hours up to 5pm on Saturday.
In England, 190 more people have died in that time after testing positive for COVID-19.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:56 Theme park becomes drive-thru testing centre
NHS England said those who died were aged between 39 and 105, and all but four patients - aged between 57 and 87 - had underlying health conditions.
England's total number of deaths is now 1,125.
The Department of Health said 1,228 people had died across the UK but NHS England then released a higher figure for the country.
A further 10 people have died in Wales, taking the total deaths there to 48.
One person died in Scotland and six in Northern Ireland.
According to NHS England, 15 people died at Barts Health NHS Trust in the City of London and east London - the most in the country.
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Image: Michael Gove said the NHS could save lives if people listened to the lockdown and stayed home
It was followed by the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust in north London, with 10 people dying there.
There were seven deaths each at Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, Mid Essex Hospital Service NHS Trust and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust.
The increase in deaths came as the government warned the nationwide lockdown could go on for a "significant" time.
:: Listen to the Sophy Ridge on Sunday podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove told Sky News the length of the lockdown has not been decided but scientists at Imperial College, who are advising the government, suggest it should go on until late May or early June.
Mr Gove warned the lockdown would be longer if people do not stick to the rules.
Antibody testing for frontline NHS staff started this weekend after the government faced criticism for not doing so.
Mr Gove said the number of tests carried out is now at 10,000 a day but will increase to 25,000 a day.
However, senior figures have called for mass testing, with former prime minister Tony Blair saying "virtually everybody" in the UK may have to be tested.
Former health secretary Jeremy Hunt also called for mass testing, as well as contact tracing.


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: The funeral home overwhelmed by New York's conveyor belt of death

The phone does n't stop ringing at the Gerard J Nuefeld funeral home in New York City .
Those who turn up at the door look bewildered and deeply anxious .
Robert Lugo arrives sobbing into his protective mask .
He , like so many you see in this neighbourhood , is wearing gloves .
Robert is visibly shaken and it turns out his loss is especially raw .
His grandmother , Ana Diaz , died last night at Elmhurst Hospital .
The hospital is at the centre of the COVID-19 outbreak .
Staff there are exhausted dealing with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in desperately short supply .
One doctor described the situation as apocalyptic .
Robert breaks down as he tells me that this grandmother - `` the glue '' in his family - died without any family by her side .
It is an unfathomable burden for him to bear , and sadly , it is one so many are now forced to endure .
`` My grandmother died alone , '' he tells me , his voice breaking .
`` We did n't even see her and could n't touch or talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her that boost of morale to say , hey , you know , you got to come out of this .
We need you to come out of this .
There was nothing . ''
Little over a week ago , his family were all together celebrating her 80th birthday .
`` She embraced every life she touched , '' Robert says .
Now , half of her family have tested positive .
They 're not only deprived of the chance to grieve her passing , but they 're isolated and struggling with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jr is working all hours alongside his father , trying to offer dignity to the dead and support their distraught families .
`` The crematoriums really are n't letting anybody in , '' he tells me .
`` The cemeteries are , for the most part , telling people to stay in their cars and just watch the burial from the gravesite . ''
He drives us to St Michael 's Crematorium .
A family that is following him in a car behind have turned up hoping they can get in , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gates .
Instead , they 're forced to hand over their candle to Joe so he can place it next to the coffin .
He clutches it protectively in his hands as he drives through the grounds - conscious of how fleeting it feels for the relatives watching on .
`` Sometimes when it 's so brief , it almost leaves them still feeling hollow , '' Joe says .
`` Like , you know , what just happened ?
They do n't have enough time to process it .
It 's heartbreaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Back at the funeral home , his father Joseph Sr says their work has been non-stop for a fortnight .
`` It just got crazy… people are unfortunately passing away in big numbers , '' he said .
`` Because they live in this area and I 'm the only funeral home left in this area , they 're coming to me .
`` I 'm trying to accommodate them as best I can… I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And shortly after I left the office , within two hours , I had three more services .
And then this morning , as soon as we came in , we put on three or four more services . ''
I 'm struck by just how stressful their job has become .
This is a father and son who take pride and comfort in accommodating the many ceremonies and rituals this diverse neighbourhood desires .
There are more than 100 nationalities in the area - many who traditionally hold large gatherings to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says they are trying to let individuals briefly see the caskets before they take them away , but they know they have to closely monitor numbers .
The father and son wear protective clothing when embalming the bodies .
But like all undertakers , they are vulnerable to infected bodies .
Nonetheless , they are desperately determined to help a community that 's coming to terms with being separated at the most demanding of moments - a surreal and cruel consequence of this pandemic .
Watching them work is both humbling and exhausting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus two weeks away , their days are n't getting any shorter .

The phone doesn't stop ringing at the Gerard J Nuefeld funeral home in New York City.
Those who turn up at the door look bewildered and deeply anxious. Robert Lugo arrives sobbing into his protective mask.
He, like so many you see in this neighbourhood, is wearing gloves.
Robert is visibly shaken and it turns out his loss is especially raw. His grandmother, Ana Diaz, died last night at Elmhurst Hospital.
Image: Funeral directors are trying their hardest to offer dignity to the dead
The hospital is at the centre of the COVID-19 outbreak. Staff there are exhausted dealing with the surge in patients, and protective equipment is in desperately short supply. One doctor described the situation as apocalyptic.
Robert breaks down as he tells me that this grandmother - "the glue" in his family - died without any family by her side.
It is an unfathomable burden for him to bear, and sadly, it is one so many are now forced to endure.
"My grandmother died alone," he tells me, his voice breaking. "We didn't even see her and couldn't touch or talk to her. We couldn't give her that boost of morale to say, hey, you know, you got to come out of this. We need you to come out of this. There was nothing."
Image: Ana Diaz (left) had just celebrated her 80th birthday
Little over a week ago, his family were all together celebrating her 80th birthday.
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"She embraced every life she touched," Robert says.
Now, half of her family have tested positive. They're not only deprived of the chance to grieve her passing, but they're isolated and struggling with their own symptoms too.
Joe Nuefeld Jr is working all hours alongside his father, trying to offer dignity to the dead and support their distraught families.
"The crematoriums really aren't letting anybody in," he tells me. "The cemeteries are, for the most part, telling people to stay in their cars and just watch the burial from the gravesite."
Image: New York City has been badly hit by the coronavirus pandemic
He drives us to St Michael's Crematorium.
A family that is following him in a car behind have turned up hoping they can get in, but they're not even allowed through the gates.
Instead, they're forced to hand over their candle to Joe so he can place it next to the coffin. He clutches it protectively in his hands as he drives through the grounds - conscious of how fleeting it feels for the relatives watching on.
"Sometimes when it's so brief, it almost leaves them still feeling hollow," Joe says. "Like, you know, what just happened? They don't have enough time to process it. It's heartbreaking. It's really sad."
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Back at the funeral home, his father Joseph Sr says their work has been non-stop for a fortnight.
"It just got crazy… people are unfortunately passing away in big numbers," he said.
"Because they live in this area and I'm the only funeral home left in this area, they're coming to me.
"I'm trying to accommodate them as best I can… I think we had about 12 services scheduled. And shortly after I left the office, within two hours, I had three more services. And then this morning, as soon as we came in, we put on three or four more services."
Image: One doctor in New York described conditions in his hospital as 'apocalyptic'
I'm struck by just how stressful their job has become. This is a father and son who take pride and comfort in accommodating the many ceremonies and rituals this diverse neighbourhood desires.
There are more than 100 nationalities in the area - many who traditionally hold large gatherings to say goodbye to their relatives.
Joe Sr says they are trying to let individuals briefly see the caskets before they take them away, but they know they have to closely monitor numbers.
The father and son wear protective clothing when embalming the bodies. But like all undertakers, they are vulnerable to infected bodies.
Nonetheless, they are desperately determined to help a community that's coming to terms with being separated at the most demanding of moments - a surreal and cruel consequence of this pandemic. Watching them work is both humbling and exhausting.
With the predicted peak of this virus two weeks away, their days aren't getting any shorter.


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: Paramedics serenade frontline hospital staff with rendition of You'll Never Walk Alone

Frontline hospital staff have received support from their paramedic colleagues who sang `` You 'll Never Walk Alone '' from the other side of a door .
A video of the paramedics and other hospitals workers singing and swaying their arms to doctors and nurses caring for coronavirus patients in Rotterdam 's Maasstad Hospital in the Netherlands has gone viral after the hospital posted it on Twitter .
The footage shows a hospital worker tapping on the glass door separating them from the emergency staff who are wearing blue .
Then a host of paramedics and other hospital staff join @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alone by Gerry and the Pacemakers , which has topped the Official Chart Company 's `` lockdown listening list '' in the UK .
As they realise their colleagues are singing to them , the doctors and nurses stop what they are doing and start singing and waving their arms as well .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The Liverpool FC anthem was broadcast by 180 radio stations across Europe on 20 March , when the video was taken .
Esther @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said most radio stations in the Netherlands were playing the song when staff started singing along .
As of Sunday morning , the hospital was caring for about 70 patients who had tested positive for COVID-19 .
The Netherlands went into lockdown on 16 March as it tries to battle the pandemic .
It has the 11th highest number of cases in the world at 9,819 with 639 deaths as of Sunday morning , and a population of 17.18 million .

Frontline hospital staff have received support from their paramedic colleagues who sang "You'll Never Walk Alone" from the other side of a door.
A video of the paramedics and other hospitals workers singing and swaying their arms to doctors and nurses caring for coronavirus patients in Rotterdam's Maasstad Hospital in the Netherlands has gone viral after the hospital posted it on Twitter.
The footage shows a hospital worker tapping on the glass door separating them from the emergency staff who are wearing blue.
Then a host of paramedics and other hospital staff join and start singing You'll Never Walk Alone by Gerry and the Pacemakers, which has topped the Official Chart Company's "lockdown listening list" in the UK.
As they realise their colleagues are singing to them, the doctors and nurses stop what they are doing and start singing and waving their arms as well.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The Liverpool FC anthem was broadcast by 180 radio stations across Europe on 20 March, when the video was taken.
Esther Godijn, the hospital's press officer, said most radio stations in the Netherlands were playing the song when staff started singing along.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:03 Explainer: How to self-isolate
As of Sunday morning, the hospital was caring for about 70 patients who had tested positive for COVID-19.
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The Netherlands went into lockdown on 16 March as it tries to battle the pandemic.
It has the 11th highest number of cases in the world at 9,819 with 639 deaths as of Sunday morning, and a population of 17.18 million.


news--2020-03-29--Barclays close to winning ShareAction support for climate plan

Barclays is close to securing qualified investor support for a new action plan on climate change amid pressure on global banks ' relationships with carbon-polluting companies .
Sky News can reveal that ShareAction , a pressure group which has called on Barclays to `` phase out '' its financing energy companies that are not aligned with the Paris climate accord , has indicated that it will recommend support for an alternative resolution being drawn up by the British lender .
ShareAction 's own resolution , tabled two months ago , will also be put to Barclays ' annual general meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shareholders will have the chance to vote on both , according to one investor .
City sources said on Sunday that Barclays ' alternative resolution would commit it to helping `` transition '' energy companies towards the Paris goals .
The bank is thought to be preparing to commit to a range of measures focused on helping energy and other polluting companies achieve Paris compliance that will impact its activities across lending , underwriting , corporate finance advisory work and other forms of project financing .
One investor briefed on the plan described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a major lender .
Barclays will also commit to holding a strategy day towards the end of the year at which it will set out further details of its climate-related actions , according to one insider .
The bank has been targeted by ShareAction because of its status as the sixth-largest financier of fossil fuel companies in the world , providing $ 85bn of funding to them since the Paris Agreement was struck in 2015 .
`` Barclays ' funding runs broad and deep , with billions going into controversial , high-carbon sources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' ShareAction said in January .
Having a recommendation from ShareAction , which is being backed by blue-chip investors including Jupiter Asset Management , to vote in favour of the bank 's resolution would be seen as a victory for Nigel Higgins , Barclays ' chairman .
Mr Higgins has engaged extensively with shareholders on the issue in recent weeks , and has been keen to avoid a proxy fight - partly because the bank remains under pressure from Edward Bramson , an activist investor .
It also remains in the cross-hairs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its chief executive , Jes Staley , with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein .
Mr Staley 's description of that relationship is now the subject of an investigation by the City and banking watchdogs .
The Investor Forum , which represents institutional shareholders managing a combined £21trn , is said by several fund managers to have played an instrumental role in brokering a compromise that means ShareAction is likely to recommend voting in favour of both climate resolutions .
One investor said the major stumbling block during months of talks between Barclays and ShareAction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phrase `` phase out '' in relation to carbon financing , against the bank 's preference for `` transition '' .
Although the corporate agenda is currently dominated by the coronavirus pandemic , climate change has become an increasingly critical issue on the agenda of institutional investors which manage trillions of pounds of pension fund money globally .
A number of companies outside the energy sector , including a number of airlines and retailers , have set clear objectives for improving their environmental footprint in recent months .
BP 's new chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the oil giant would become a net zero emissions company by 2050 .
Lloyds Banking Group , the UK 's biggest high street lender , announced recently that it would halve carbon emissions linked to its loan book within a decade .
Barclays and ShareAction declined to comment , while the Investor Forum could not be reached for comment .

Barclays is close to securing qualified investor support for a new action plan on climate change amid pressure on global banks' relationships with carbon-polluting companies.
Sky News can reveal that ShareAction, a pressure group which has called on Barclays to "phase out" its financing energy companies that are not aligned with the Paris climate accord, has indicated that it will recommend support for an alternative resolution being drawn up by the British lender.
ShareAction's own resolution, tabled two months ago, will also be put to Barclays' annual general meeting in May, meaning the bank's shareholders will have the chance to vote on both, according to one investor.
Image: Climate change protesters have held demonstrations outside Barclays' Canary Wharf headquarters
City sources said on Sunday that Barclays' alternative resolution would commit it to helping "transition" energy companies towards the Paris goals.
The bank is thought to be preparing to commit to a range of measures focused on helping energy and other polluting companies achieve Paris compliance that will impact its activities across lending, underwriting, corporate finance advisory work and other forms of project financing.
One investor briefed on the plan described it as a "landmark" for a major lender.
Barclays will also commit to holding a strategy day towards the end of the year at which it will set out further details of its climate-related actions, according to one insider.
The bank has been targeted by ShareAction because of its status as the sixth-largest financier of fossil fuel companies in the world, providing $85bn of funding to them since the Paris Agreement was struck in 2015.
"Barclays' funding runs broad and deep, with billions going into controversial, high-carbon sources such as Arctic oil and tar sands," ShareAction said in January.
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Having a recommendation from ShareAction, which is being backed by blue-chip investors including Jupiter Asset Management, to vote in favour of the bank's resolution would be seen as a victory for Nigel Higgins, Barclays' chairman.
Mr Higgins has engaged extensively with shareholders on the issue in recent weeks, and has been keen to avoid a proxy fight - partly because the bank remains under pressure from Edward Bramson, an activist investor.
It also remains in the cross-hairs of some investors over the relationship of its chief executive, Jes Staley, with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Mr Staley's description of that relationship is now the subject of an investigation by the City and banking watchdogs.
The Investor Forum, which represents institutional shareholders managing a combined £21trn, is said by several fund managers to have played an instrumental role in brokering a compromise that means ShareAction is likely to recommend voting in favour of both climate resolutions.
One investor said the major stumbling block during months of talks between Barclays and ShareAction has been ShareAction's use of the phrase "phase out" in relation to carbon financing, against the bank's preference for "transition".
Although the corporate agenda is currently dominated by the coronavirus pandemic, climate change has become an increasingly critical issue on the agenda of institutional investors which manage trillions of pounds of pension fund money globally.
A number of companies outside the energy sector, including a number of airlines and retailers, have set clear objectives for improving their environmental footprint in recent months.
BP's new chief executive, Bernard Looney, said in February that the oil giant would become a net zero emissions company by 2050.
Lloyds Banking Group, the UK's biggest high street lender, announced recently that it would halve carbon emissions linked to its loan book within a decade.
Barclays and ShareAction declined to comment, while the Investor Forum could not be reached for comment.


news--2020-03-28--Coronavirus: Airbnb offers 'heroic' NHS workers free accommodation

Frontline NHS workers will be offered free places to stay by Airbnb during the coronavirus pandemic .
Homeowners who list their properties through Airbnb are able to opt in to the programme and offer an entire home , with Airbnb waiving all fees for the stays .
So far , 1,500 places to stay have been offered in the UK on the accommodation marketplace website .
Worried NHS workers have been speaking out about the tough realities of commuting in packed trains alongside other commuters that the government says can still go into work if they are unable or not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` As health workers we take the two-metre rule really seriously - and I do n't think other people are because they 're just sitting next to each other on the trains .
It 's quite stressful , '' a member of the NHS told Sky News recently .
Airbnb has been running a scheme in other countries to put up healthcare professionals and other emergency service staff to help them stay nearer work during the COVID-19 crisis .
Now it has officially teamed up with the NHS to expand the offer in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hospitals and trusts directly to help their healthcare workers book accommodation .
Patrick Robinson , director of public policy at Airbnb , said `` the entire country is behind our heroic NHS and medical staff '' .
`` We have made it our priority to stand with the Airbnb community to do what we can to help , '' he continued .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' By working together , we can ensure that frontline workers can find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they continue their critical work .
`` We thank our doctors and nurses across the country from the bottom of our hearts and are grateful to hosts who have already opened their homes during these difficult times . ''

Frontline NHS workers will be offered free places to stay by Airbnb during the coronavirus pandemic.
Homeowners who list their properties through Airbnb are able to opt in to the programme and offer an entire home, with Airbnb waiving all fees for the stays.
So far, 1,500 places to stay have been offered in the UK on the accommodation marketplace website.
Worried NHS workers have been speaking out about the tough realities of commuting in packed trains alongside other commuters that the government says can still go into work if they are unable or not allowed to do so from home.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:22 Inside a packed London tube train
"As health workers we take the two-metre rule really seriously - and I don't think other people are because they're just sitting next to each other on the trains. It's quite stressful," a member of the NHS told Sky News recently.
Airbnb has been running a scheme in other countries to put up healthcare professionals and other emergency service staff to help them stay nearer work during the COVID-19 crisis.
Image: A temporary testing station has been set up at Chessington World of Adventures in Greater London
Now it has officially teamed up with the NHS to expand the offer in Britain.
The support will be offered to hospitals and trusts directly to help their healthcare workers book accommodation.
Patrick Robinson, director of public policy at Airbnb, said "the entire country is behind our heroic NHS and medical staff".
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"We have made it our priority to stand with the Airbnb community to do what we can to help," he continued.
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"By working together, we can ensure that frontline workers can find a free and convenient place to stay as they continue their critical work.
"We thank our doctors and nurses across the country from the bottom of our hearts and are grateful to hosts who have already opened their homes during these difficult times."


news--2020-03-29--Coronavirus: Man with terminal cancer begs Britons to respect lockdown so he can hug wife before he

Coronavirus: Man with terminal cancer begs Britons to respect lockdown so he can hug wife before he dies

A husband with terminal bowel cancer fears the coronavirus outbreak means he 'll never hug his wife again - and has begged the British public to respect the lockdown so he might get to live a normal life for a short time before he dies .
Simon Cowls and his wife Ali bought a humble campervan to create some final memories together .
This month , they were due to set off from their Devon house on their dream roadtrip through the British countryside .
Instead , Mr Cowls spends each night alone in the van , parked in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his vulnerable immune system from the threat of coronavirus .
He kisses his wife goodnight via Skype .
The 51-year-old is on antibody treatment that puts him in what the NHS has classified as the highest risk group , forcing him to self-isolate - even from his own wife - for 23 hours a day .
When he does see her for one hour , he has to sit across a table .
Now he is begging the `` pockets of people '' still panic buying to stop , and those not obeying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so that all of this might be over sooner .
`` I 'm already feeling pretty down in the dumps .
I know I 'm going to die , and I have the worry of coronavirus on top of it , '' he told Sky News .
`` Now I do n't have the person who loves and cares for me around me either .
It 's hard , it 's my wife .
I need a cuddle . ''
Through tears , he continued : `` It really annoys me when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ invisible , carrying around like their lives are normal , '' he said .
`` You ca n't do that , you 're going to kill people .
If you do n't get it you 'll give it to your grandma or your mum - I do n't know what it 's going to take for people to listen .
If I get this it will kill me , and I have other friends who have it and are fighting for their lives . ''
The pandemic has amplified the already-immense stress of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` big line of support '' the NHS provided as surgeries close , resources stretch and supplies run low .
`` Suddenly you feel vulnerable , you feel isolated , '' he said .
Mr Cowls said his GP recently expressed concern over the phone that people were stockpiling medication in the same way they had done with toilet paper , which posed a risk to the supply of his life-saving medication .
`` I will die without it , '' he said .
`` Luckily there are lots of community groups who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm yet to put in my first online order , but when I do we will see how long that takes . ''
He also faced delayed treatment as his doctors weigh up the risk of continued therapy , which would further weaken his immune system amid the coronavirus threat , against the risk of stopping treatment and allowing his tumours to spread quicker .
This weekend , Mr Cowls received one of the government 's first 50,000 food parcels sent to the country 's most vulnerable to help them self-isolate for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The support is crucial to Mr Cowls as it means his wife no longer has to leave the house and can fully self-isolate .
After two weeks , they can re-assess how much contact they can have .
He said the free boxes were due to be delivered once a week , but that he wanted to see the weeks-long wait for online orders for supermarkets shortened so that the boxes could instead `` be delivered to people more financially in need '' .
Mr Cowls hopes to survive the three months of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day he does not have to video chat his wife from the lonely campervan .
`` This is the time at the end of my life where we should be enjoying ourselves , creating memories , seeing loved ones , '' he said .
`` We want to have everyone help flatten the curve of deaths so we , and others , can do that . ''
Mrs Cowls , who recently left a decades-long career in the NHS to spend time with her husband , had a similar message .
`` Every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' she said .
`` We want to get through this , to drive our campervan through Scotland and Normandy in the north of France .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' We want to go to historic places and sit on the beach with a cup of tea in warmer weather and let Simon see everything this beautiful country has to offer .
`` All we are asking is for everyone to sit still for a while , and maybe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in as much fear . ''

A husband with terminal bowel cancer fears the coronavirus outbreak means he'll never hug his wife again - and has begged the British public to respect the lockdown so he might get to live a normal life for a short time before he dies.
Simon Cowls and his wife Ali bought a humble campervan to create some final memories together. This month, they were due to set off from their Devon house on their dream roadtrip through the British countryside.
Instead, Mr Cowls spends each night alone in the van, parked in their backyard, in an effort to shield his vulnerable immune system from the threat of coronavirus.
Image: Simon Cowls sleeps in the pullout tent of his campervan to sheild himself from society
He kisses his wife goodnight via Skype.
The 51-year-old is on antibody treatment that puts him in what the NHS has classified as the highest risk group, forcing him to self-isolate - even from his own wife - for 23 hours a day.
When he does see her for one hour, he has to sit across a table.
Now he is begging the "pockets of people" still panic buying to stop, and those not obeying the lockdown to stay in their homes, so that all of this might be over sooner.
"I'm already feeling pretty down in the dumps. I know I'm going to die, and I have the worry of coronavirus on top of it," he told Sky News.
"Now I don't have the person who loves and cares for me around me either. It's hard, it's my wife. I need a cuddle."
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Through tears, he continued: "It really annoys me when I see people who think they're invisible, carrying around like their lives are normal," he said.
"You can't do that, you're going to kill people. If you don't get it you'll give it to your grandma or your mum - I don't know what it's going to take for people to listen. If I get this it will kill me, and I have other friends who have it and are fighting for their lives."
The pandemic has amplified the already-immense stress of being terminally ill, stripping away the "big line of support" the NHS provided as surgeries close, resources stretch and supplies run low.
"Suddenly you feel vulnerable, you feel isolated," he said.
Image: Simon has lived with bowel cancer for four years, and it has spread throughout his body
Image: They recieved one of the government's first 50,000 care boxes, prioritised to society's most vulnerable
Mr Cowls said his GP recently expressed concern over the phone that people were stockpiling medication in the same way they had done with toilet paper, which posed a risk to the supply of his life-saving medication. "I will die without it," he said.
"Luckily there are lots of community groups who can pick it up for me so I'm yet to put in my first online order, but when I do we will see how long that takes."
He also faced delayed treatment as his doctors weigh up the risk of continued therapy, which would further weaken his immune system amid the coronavirus threat, against the risk of stopping treatment and allowing his tumours to spread quicker.
Image: Ali quit her job as a nurse in the NHS to look after Simon
This weekend, Mr Cowls received one of the government's first 50,000 food parcels sent to the country's most vulnerable to help them self-isolate for a mandatory period of three months.
It included toilet rolls, shower gel, tinned food, bread, cereal and fresh produce.
Image: Simon loves the outdoors and wants to explore much more of the UK
The support is crucial to Mr Cowls as it means his wife no longer has to leave the house and can fully self-isolate. After two weeks, they can re-assess how much contact they can have.
He said the free boxes were due to be delivered once a week, but that he wanted to see the weeks-long wait for online orders for supermarkets shortened so that the boxes could instead "be delivered to people more financially in need".
Mr Cowls hopes to survive the three months of shielding from society and longs for the day he does not have to video chat his wife from the lonely campervan.
"This is the time at the end of my life where we should be enjoying ourselves, creating memories, seeing loved ones," he said.
"We want to have everyone help flatten the curve of deaths so we, and others, can do that."
Mrs Cowls, who recently left a decades-long career in the NHS to spend time with her husband, had a similar message.
"Every extra day we have is precious," she said.
"We want to get through this, to drive our campervan through Scotland and Normandy in the north of France.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"We want to go to historic places and sit on the beach with a cup of tea in warmer weather and let Simon see everything this beautiful country has to offer.
"All we are asking is for everyone to sit still for a while, and maybe soon we won't have to live in as much fear."


news--2020-04-04--Coronavirus: Michael Gove admits 'nature' of Universal Credit may need to change

Cabinet minister Michael Gove has acknowledged the government may need to review `` the nature '' of its flagship welfare reform , after being asked whether Universal Credit can provide sufficient financial support to claimants .
More than a million new applications have been submitted since the UK imposed strict social distancing and travel restrictions in response to the COVID-19 outbreak .
The new welfare system is designed to provide an incentive for people to take up work , by enabling claimants to keep receiving benefit payments alongside income from a job .
However in normal circumstances , claimants are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to qualify for financial support .
This has led to concerns about whether the system has enough flexibility to deal with the current circumstances where work is unlikely to be an option for the vast majority , Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference , the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster insisted the whole welfare system was kept under review , but asked whether the standard weekly claim of £94 per week was sufficient for people to live on , he indicated further changes could follow .
`` I think we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system and whether or not we do need to ensure that we better support the vulnerable , we keep that constantly under review and I think it 's important that we do recognise that its a very very difficult economic time for very many , '' he said .
The message from Mr Gove contrasts with comments made by the Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey , who told a parliamentary select committee last month `` the underlying principles of Universal Credit have not gone away '' .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live on £94 per week , which is also the rate of statutory sick pay .
However , Mr Gove was keen to stress that while Universal Credit was one of the mechanisms by which the government was offering support to those in need during the coronavirus pandemic , it was not the only one .
`` It is not the only means the government is deploying , as you 'll be aware there are up to 1.5 million people in the most vulnerable category - the shielded vulnerable - who we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He also pointed to a new task force led by Environment Secretary George Eustice , which is working with local authorities and charities to identify those who are vulnerable and in need in communities across the UK .
The Department for Work and Pensions is recruiting at least 5,000 more staff to increase its capacity to handle the surge in demand for Universal Credit .
Ministers have previously made clear that in addition to the standard claim of £94 per week , new Universal Credit claimants may be able to receive more @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Cabinet minister Michael Gove has acknowledged the government may need to review "the nature" of its flagship welfare reform, after being asked whether Universal Credit can provide sufficient financial support to claimants.
More than a million new applications have been submitted since the UK imposed strict social distancing and travel restrictions in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
The new welfare system is designed to provide an incentive for people to take up work, by enabling claimants to keep receiving benefit payments alongside income from a job.
However in normal circumstances, claimants are expected to actively seek work in order to qualify for financial support.
This has led to concerns about whether the system has enough flexibility to deal with the current circumstances where work is unlikely to be an option for the vast majority,
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster insisted the whole welfare system was kept under review, but asked whether the standard weekly claim of £94 per week was sufficient for people to live on, he indicated further changes could follow.
"I think we have to consider the nature of the system and whether or not we do need to ensure that we better support the vulnerable, we keep that constantly under review and I think it's important that we do recognise that its a very very difficult economic time for very many," he said.
Image: Nearly a million people have signed up for Universal Credit during the pandemic
The message from Mr Gove contrasts with comments made by the Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey, who told a parliamentary select committee last month "the underlying principles of Universal Credit have not gone away".
Health Secretary Matt Hancock recently admitted he would not be able to live on £94 per week, which is also the rate of statutory sick pay.
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However, Mr Gove was keen to stress that while Universal Credit was one of the mechanisms by which the government was offering support to those in need during the coronavirus pandemic, it was not the only one.
"It is not the only means the government is deploying, as you'll be aware there are up to 1.5 million people in the most vulnerable category - the shielded vulnerable - who we are distributing food and prescription medicines to."
He also pointed to a new task force led by Environment Secretary George Eustice, which is working with local authorities and charities to identify those who are vulnerable and in need in communities across the UK.
The Department for Work and Pensions is recruiting at least 5,000 more staff to increase its capacity to handle the surge in demand for Universal Credit.
Ministers have previously made clear that in addition to the standard claim of £94 per week, new Universal Credit claimants may be able to receive more money through housing and support additions.


news--2020-04-03--Keir Starmer set to replace Jeremy Corbyn as Labour Party leader

Sir Keir Starmer is expected to be confirmed as the new leader of the Labour Party later .
He is the favourite to succeed Jeremy Corbyn after winning the support of a majority of local constituency parties , and maintaining a consistent lead in opinion polls of Labour members .
The other contenders are shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey , an ally of Mr Corbyn , and Wigan MP Lisa Nandy .
The results will be announced via the party 's social media feeds at 10.45am alongside pre-recorded videos from the new leader and deputy leader .
A planned `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of both contests was cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis .
Allies of Keir Starmer say the scale of his anticipated victory will determine how far he is able to transform the party in his own image .
If elected , he is likely to announce his first shadow cabinet appointments on Sunday , with his choice of shadow chancellor seen as a strong signifier of the path he intends to forge .
Rachel Reeves , chair of parliament 's business select committee , and shadow treasury minister Anneliese Dodds have both been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first week in office Sir Keir is expected to explain how he will tackle Labour 's antisemitism problem , in an effort to rebuild trust with the Jewish community and demonstrate a break from the past .
Jeremy Corbyn announced his intention to stand down after December 's devastating general election defeat , the party 's worst result since 1935 .
He decided to remain in charge until a successor had been chosen and has declined to rule out serving in the next shadow cabinet .
Shadow education secretary Angela Rayner is expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leader , succeeding Tom Watson who announced in November that he was standing down from parliament .
MPs Rosena Allin-Khan , Dawn Butler , Richard Burgon and Ian Murray are also vying for the role .
In the third and final round of the leadership contest , party members and members of trades unions and affiliated groups each have a vote , as do 14,700 registered supporters who paid £25 to take part on a one-off basis .
The final weeks of the contest were particularly low key due to the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Sir Keir Starmer is expected to be confirmed as the new leader of the Labour Party later.
He is the favourite to succeed Jeremy Corbyn after winning the support of a majority of local constituency parties, and maintaining a consistent lead in opinion polls of Labour members.
The other contenders are shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey, an ally of Mr Corbyn, and Wigan MP Lisa Nandy.
Image: Lisa Nandy (left) and Rebecca Long-Bailey are the other contenders
The results will be announced via the party's social media feeds at 10.45am alongside pre-recorded videos from the new leader and deputy leader.
A planned "special conference" to unveil the winners of both contests was cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis.
Allies of Keir Starmer say the scale of his anticipated victory will determine how far he is able to transform the party in his own image.
If elected, he is likely to announce his first shadow cabinet appointments on Sunday, with his choice of shadow chancellor seen as a strong signifier of the path he intends to forge.
Rachel Reeves, chair of parliament's business select committee, and shadow treasury minister Anneliese Dodds have both been touted for the role.
In his first week in office Sir Keir is expected to explain how he will tackle Labour's antisemitism problem, in an effort to rebuild trust with the Jewish community and demonstrate a break from the past.
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Jeremy Corbyn announced his intention to stand down after December's devastating general election defeat, the party's worst result since 1935.
He decided to remain in charge until a successor had been chosen and has declined to rule out serving in the next shadow cabinet.
Image: Jeremy Corbyn has declined to rule out serving in the next shadow cabinet
Shadow education secretary Angela Rayner is expected to be elected Labour's new deputy leader, succeeding Tom Watson who announced in November that he was standing down from parliament.
MPs Rosena Allin-Khan, Dawn Butler, Richard Burgon and Ian Murray are also vying for the role.
In the third and final round of the leadership contest, party members and members of trades unions and affiliated groups each have a vote, as do 14,700 registered supporters who paid £25 to take part on a one-off basis.
The final weeks of the contest were particularly low key due to the coronavirus pandemic, with campaign events and hustings cancelled.