kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--TUI and First Choice cancel all holidays until the end of June

TUI has extended its suspension of holidays for UK customers until at least the end of June due to coronavirus travel restrictions .
The UK ’ s biggest tour operator - which runs TUI and First Choice - had previously cancelled all trips up to June 11 .
It has also suspended its Marella Cruises sailings up to July 30 .
What has TUI said ?
TUI said in a statement that it has extended the suspension of holidays “ due to the ongoing travel restrictions ” .
All affected customers should visit tui.co.uk or firstchoice.co.uk for further advice and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until ?
Rival tour operator Jet2holidays has also suspended its holidays up to June 30 .
'Two-week quarentine for those flying into the UK' A 14-day quarantine for international arrivals is due to begin in the UK on June 8 .
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) has advised against all but essential international travel since March 17 .
Major UK tour operators will not run trips until the FCO changes its position .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock appeared to be more optimistic than in the past when asked about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on holiday this summer .
He told BBC Radio 4 ’ s Today programme : “ I think the answer is let ’ s see where we get to.
” Mr Hancock had previously commented that “ big , lavish international holidays ” were “ unlikely ” to be possible this summer .
In mid-May , First Choice and TUI have changed their holiday refunds process for customers .
The move comes as the TUI UK and Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham admitted the business has taken a long time to find a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ processing the 'unprecedented volume ' of refunds .
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted more than 900,000 people who booked with First Choice ( which is part of the TUI group ) and TUI .
Customers who have cancelled holidays before June 11 can now access a self-service section on the website to apply for a cash refund , removing the need for them to call customer services .
Other customers with holidays booked up until August 31 are now able to make free amendments to their bookings online until June 30 .
All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or firstchoice.co.uk .

The UK’s biggest tour operator - which runs TUI and First Choice - had previously cancelled all trips up to June 11.
It has also suspended its Marella Cruises sailings up to July 30.
What has TUI said?
TUI said in a statement that it has extended the suspension of holidays “due to the ongoing travel restrictions”.
All affected customers should visit tui.co.uk or firstchoice.co.uk for further advice and information.
When are Jet2 holidays suspended until?
Rival tour operator Jet2holidays has also suspended its holidays up to June 30.
'Two-week quarentine for those flying into the UK'
A 14-day quarantine for international arrivals is due to begin in the UK on June 8.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has advised against all but essential international travel since March 17.
Major UK tour operators will not run trips until the FCO changes its position.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock appeared to be more optimistic than in the past when asked about the prospect of people being able to go on holiday this summer.
He told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I think the answer is let’s see where we get to.”
Mr Hancock had previously commented that “big, lavish international holidays” were “unlikely” to be possible this summer.
TUI and First Choice change travel refunds process
In mid-May, First Choice and TUI have changed their holiday refunds process for customers.
The move comes as the TUI UK and Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham admitted the business has taken a long time to find a system that works when it comes to processing the 'unprecedented volume' of refunds.
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted more than 900,000 people who booked with First Choice (which is part of the TUI group) and TUI.
Customers who have cancelled holidays before June 11 can now access a self-service section on the website to apply for a cash refund, removing the need for them to call customer services.
Other customers with holidays booked up until August 31 are now able to make free amendments to their bookings online until June 30.
All changes can be made by visiting tui.co.uk or firstchoice.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Cummings ‘might have committed minor lockdown breach’, say police

Dominic Cummings may have committed “ a minor breach ” of lockdown rules when he drove to Barnard Castle but will face no further action , according to Durham police .
The force issued a statement on the Prime Minister ’ s top aide ’ s decision to travel to the county days after lockdown had been imposed , saying it did not consider that by locating himself at his father ’ s premises he committed an offence .
But it said : “ Durham Constabulary have examined the circumstances surrounding the journey to Barnard Castle – including ANPR ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence and a review of Mr Cummings ’ press conference on 25 May 2020 – and have concluded that there might have been a minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention .
“ Durham Constabulary view this as minor because there was no apparent breach of social distancing .
“ Had a Durham Constabulary police officer stopped Mr Cummings driving to or from Barnard Castle , the officer would have spoken to him , and , having established the facts , likely advised Mr Cummings to return to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the dangers of travelling during the pandemic crisis .
“ Had this advice been accepted by Mr Cummings , no enforcement action would have been taken.
” The force added : “ In line with Durham Constabulary ’ s general approach throughout the pandemic , there is no intention to take retrospective action in respect of the Barnard Castle incident since this would amount to treating Mr Cummings differently from other members of the public.
” Responding to the statement , a Number 10 spokesman said : “ The Prime Minister has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legally given all the circumstances and he regards this issue as closed.
” But opposition MPs said the fact police believe Mr Cummings may have breached the rules showed that members of the public were right to be outraged at his behaviour .
Labour MP Alex Davies-Jones tweeted : “ Durham Police just confirming what we all already knew .
Cummings broke the rules whilst we were dutifully obeying for the common good .
“ He broke the rules he helped write .
Actions have consequences .
Your move Prime Minister.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tracking down people who have come into close contact with coronavirus sufferers , amid reports of major problems with the NHS Test and Trace system .
The service – seen as key to easing lockdown restrictions – has been rolled out across England with the help of 25,000 contact tracers , while an accompanying app is delayed by several weeks .
The Department for Health admitted “ some staff initially encountered issues logging on to their systems ” , while MPs said they were told the programme would not be operational at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month .
Baroness Dido Harding , executive chairwoman of NHS Test and Trace , is said to have made the admission in a call with parliamentarians on Thursday morning .
Labour former minister Ben Bradshaw said he asked Lady Harding whether his local authority in Devon – a pilot area for the scheme – was correct in thinking local plans did not need to be in place until the end of next month .
He told the PA news agency : “ I simply asked her to clarify the timing on the rollout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told me , and she confirmed that , yes , the local operational rollout of this would not happen until the end of June.
” Mr Bradshaw said it was in “ complete variance ” with Boris Johnson ’ s pledge to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister ’ s Questions last week that the system will be up and running by June 1 .
“ It does seem rather worrying to me that the Government keeps launching things or announcing things that either aren ’ t ready or it can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Earlier Health Secretary Matt Hancock laughed off claims that he had rushed to introduce the system amid the fierce political row over Mr Cummings ’ lockdown breach .
Mr Hancock said people contacted as part of the NHS Test and Trace system must stay at home for 14 days , adding that the “ instructions are absolutely clear ” .
Asked why people should follow the new self-isolation rules , when even Tory MPs believe Mr Johnson ’ s most senior aide breached them , Mr Hancock said that it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest ” .
“ I think that the vast majority of people will understand that it is in everybody ’ s interest that those who are in higher risk follow the requests from the NHS , these instructions , and it is very important that they do.
” The Scottish Government ’ s Test and Protect programme also launched on Thursday while Wales ’ s contact tracing plan is set to go live on Monday .
Contact tracing in Northern Ireland is already underway .
– First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four-step plan to ease out of lockdown , with people now allowed to meet a person from another household outside – The toll of deaths linked to the virus rose to almost 48,000 , while at least 189 frontline health and care workers have died after contracting Covid-19 – Up to 4,500 easyJet staff could lose their jobs under plans announced by the airline , while new figures showed the number of passengers arriving in the UK by air fell from around 7.1 million in January to 112,300 in April Meanwhile , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown will be confirmed in an official review which Downing Street expects will give the all-clear for schools to begin reopening next week .
Downing Street insiders suggested the easing discussed by Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove is still dependent on scientific advice , as is the use of private gardens for socialising .

The force issued a statement on the Prime Minister’s top aide’s decision to travel to the county days after lockdown had been imposed, saying it did not consider that by locating himself at his father’s premises he committed an offence.
But it said: “Durham Constabulary have examined the circumstances surrounding the journey to Barnard Castle – including ANPR (automatic number plate recognition), witness evidence and a review of Mr Cummings’ press conference on 25 May 2020 – and have concluded that there might have been a minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention.
“Durham Constabulary view this as minor because there was no apparent breach of social distancing.
“Had a Durham Constabulary police officer stopped Mr Cummings driving to or from Barnard Castle, the officer would have spoken to him, and, having established the facts, likely advised Mr Cummings to return to the address in Durham, providing advice on the dangers of travelling during the pandemic crisis.
“Had this advice been accepted by Mr Cummings, no enforcement action would have been taken.”
The force added: “In line with Durham Constabulary’s general approach throughout the pandemic, there is no intention to take retrospective action in respect of the Barnard Castle incident since this would amount to treating Mr Cummings differently from other members of the public.”
Responding to the statement, a Number 10 spokesman said: “The Prime Minister has said he believes Mr Cummings behaved reasonably and legally given all the circumstances and he regards this issue as closed.”
But opposition MPs said the fact police believe Mr Cummings may have breached the rules showed that members of the public were right to be outraged at his behaviour.
Durham Police just confirming what we all already knew. Cummings broke the rules whilst we were dutifully obeying for the common good. He broke the rules he helped write. Actions have consequences. Your move Prime Minister. — Alex Davies-Jones MP/AS (@AlexDaviesJones) May 28, 2020
Labour MP Alex Davies-Jones tweeted: “Durham Police just confirming what we all already knew. Cummings broke the rules whilst we were dutifully obeying for the common good.
“He broke the rules he helped write. Actions have consequences. Your move Prime Minister.”
The police statement came as contact tracers began tracking down people who have come into close contact with coronavirus sufferers, amid reports of major problems with the NHS Test and Trace system.
The service – seen as key to easing lockdown restrictions – has been rolled out across England with the help of 25,000 contact tracers, while an accompanying app is delayed by several weeks.
The Department for Health admitted “some staff initially encountered issues logging on to their systems”, while MPs said they were told the programme would not be operational at a local level until the end of next month.
Baroness Dido Harding, executive chairwoman of NHS Test and Trace, is said to have made the admission in a call with parliamentarians on Thursday morning.
Labour former minister Ben Bradshaw said he asked Lady Harding whether his local authority in Devon – a pilot area for the scheme – was correct in thinking local plans did not need to be in place until the end of next month.
(PA Graphics)
He told the PA news agency: “I simply asked her to clarify the timing on the rollout and I told her what Devon had told me, and she confirmed that, yes, the local operational rollout of this would not happen until the end of June.”
Mr Bradshaw said it was in “complete variance” with Boris Johnson’s pledge to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister’s Questions last week that the system will be up and running by June 1.
“It does seem rather worrying to me that the Government keeps launching things or announcing things that either aren’t ready or it cannot deliver on,” Mr Bradshaw said.
Earlier Health Secretary Matt Hancock laughed off claims that he had rushed to introduce the system amid the fierce political row over Mr Cummings’ lockdown breach.
Mr Hancock said people contacted as part of the NHS Test and Trace system must stay at home for 14 days, adding that the “instructions are absolutely clear”.
Asked why people should follow the new self-isolation rules, when even Tory MPs believe Mr Johnson’s most senior aide breached them, Mr Hancock said that it is in “the whole community’s interest”.
“I think that the vast majority of people will understand that it is in everybody’s interest that those who are in higher risk follow the requests from the NHS, these instructions, and it is very important that they do.”
The Scottish Government’s Test and Protect programme also launched on Thursday while Wales’s contact tracing plan is set to go live on Monday. Contact tracing in Northern Ireland is already underway.
In other developments:
– First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that Scotland will move to phase one of a four-step plan to ease out of lockdown, with people now allowed to meet a person from another household outside
– The toll of deaths linked to the virus rose to almost 48,000, while at least 189 frontline health and care workers have died after contracting Covid-19
– Up to 4,500 easyJet staff could lose their jobs under plans announced by the airline, while new figures showed the number of passengers arriving in the UK by air fell from around 7.1 million in January to 112,300 in April
Meanwhile, the Government’s plans to ease the lockdown will be confirmed in an official review which Downing Street expects will give the all-clear for schools to begin reopening next week.
Downing Street insiders suggested the easing discussed by Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove is still dependent on scientific advice, as is the use of private gardens for socialising.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-29--Mixed reactions to Kidderminster energy park plan

THERE have been mixed reactions from Shuttle readers following the announcement of new plans to build a £30m energy park in Kidderminster .
A proposal to develop an energy centre , using non-hazardous commercial and industrial waste to generate low carbon energy , and a plastics recovery plant on land next to the Liberty Aluminium Foundry in Stourport were revealed earlier this week .
The company set up to run the project , Power Generation Midlands ( PGM ) , says the park could divert around 105,000 tonnes of waste from landfill every year , including 30,000 tonnes of plastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new products such as garden furniture and decking .
But concerns have already been raised from Kidderminster residents , with some describing the proposal as `` unnecessary '' .
One reader said : `` Not a good idea at all .
We 've already got the one at Hartlebury .
This is certainly the wrong thing for Wyre Forest as it hopes to lower carbon emissions . ''
Stephen Brown said : `` The data for environmental damage is already well known despite whatever the company wants to project on us . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not green or zero carbon energy , it ’ s not renewable either - that ’ s a lie .
`` Plastic manufacturers are not zero carbon anymore than burning it for energy is .
It ’ s an environmentally destructive and inefficient way to create energy . ''
Another reader wrote : `` Seems dangerous , and unnecessary since we have the Hartlebury incinerator . ''
Other readers have shared their support for the park , applauding the creation of new jobs .
As part of the plans , energy produced at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electricity and heat to the foundry next door .
The park itself is expected to create 60 construction jobs and 25 permanent jobs once complete , while the power provided to Liberty Aluminium would allow the foundry to expand its operations in the town - investing £8m and creating a further 100 jobs .
One reader commented : `` Great idea , the amount of plastic we waste - put it to good use . ''
Another wrote : `` Brilliant .
Kidderminster to lead the way .
Jobs and the environment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ One supporter said : `` It 's nice to see some joined up thinking .
Using energy from recycled waste is a great move . ''
Responding to concerns , Damian Courtney , of PGM , said : “ The Energy and Resource Park will take non-hazardous commercial and industrial waste from businesses in the local area .
`` We are already talking to local suppliers who currently send their waste to landfill that are interested in sending it to us .
We are not looking at taking waste that currently goes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ When waste arrives at the Energy and Resource Park it will already have had recyclable materials removed .
In line with government policy , it will take waste where the only other realistic option is landfill , creating a low carbon energy rather than it just being buried in the ground .
“ The plastics recovery plant will take plastic waste , such as plastic bags , film and containers , that would otherwise end up in landfill or exported overseas .
`` The process doesn ’ t burn the plastic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that can then be used to make new products like garden furniture and decking .
`` The energy centre will use proven technology and the process is closely regulated by the Environment Agency .
`` Before it can operate the energy centre will need planning permission and an Environmental Permit and it will have to meet very strict emissions limits .
`` Emissions data is monitored continually with safety controls designed to shut the plant down if it exceeds allowed levels . ''
PGM hopes to submit an official planning application to Worcestershire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ application is approved , the project is expected to take up to two years to build .
A public consultation on the plans is now under way and newsletters have been sent to more than 5,000 households and businesses in Kidderminster .
Visit powergenerationmidlands.co.uk to fill out an online questionnaire before June 26 .

A proposal to develop an energy centre, using non-hazardous commercial and industrial waste to generate low carbon energy, and a plastics recovery plant on land next to the Liberty Aluminium Foundry in Stourport were revealed earlier this week.
The company set up to run the project, Power Generation Midlands (PGM), says the park could divert around 105,000 tonnes of waste from landfill every year, including 30,000 tonnes of plastic which could be turned into granules for new products such as garden furniture and decking.
But concerns have already been raised from Kidderminster residents, with some describing the proposal as "unnecessary".
One reader said: "Not a good idea at all. We've already got the one at Hartlebury. This is certainly the wrong thing for Wyre Forest as it hopes to lower carbon emissions."
Stephen Brown said: "The data for environmental damage is already well known despite whatever the company wants to project on us."
He added: "It’s not green or zero carbon energy, it’s not renewable either - that’s a lie.
"Plastic manufacturers are not zero carbon anymore than burning it for energy is. It’s an environmentally destructive and inefficient way to create energy."
Another reader wrote: "Seems dangerous, and unnecessary since we have the Hartlebury incinerator."
Other readers have shared their support for the park, applauding the creation of new jobs.
As part of the plans, energy produced at the park would be used to supply electricity and heat to the foundry next door.
The park itself is expected to create 60 construction jobs and 25 permanent jobs once complete, while the power provided to Liberty Aluminium would allow the foundry to expand its operations in the town - investing £8m and creating a further 100 jobs.
One reader commented: "Great idea, the amount of plastic we waste - put it to good use."
Another wrote: "Brilliant. Kidderminster to lead the way. Jobs and the environment. What's not to love?"
One supporter said: "It's nice to see some joined up thinking. Using energy from recycled waste is a great move."
Responding to concerns, Damian Courtney, of PGM, said: “The Energy and Resource Park will take non-hazardous commercial and industrial waste from businesses in the local area.
"We are already talking to local suppliers who currently send their waste to landfill that are interested in sending it to us. We are not looking at taking waste that currently goes to the Hartlebury energy from waste facility.
“When waste arrives at the Energy and Resource Park it will already have had recyclable materials removed. In line with government policy, it will take waste where the only other realistic option is landfill, creating a low carbon energy rather than it just being buried in the ground.
“The plastics recovery plant will take plastic waste, such as plastic bags, film and containers, that would otherwise end up in landfill or exported overseas.
"The process doesn’t burn the plastic, it’s broken down into granules that can then be used to make new products like garden furniture and decking.
"The energy centre will use proven technology and the process is closely regulated by the Environment Agency.
"Before it can operate the energy centre will need planning permission and an Environmental Permit and it will have to meet very strict emissions limits.
"Emissions data is monitored continually with safety controls designed to shut the plant down if it exceeds allowed levels."
PGM hopes to submit an official planning application to Worcestershire County Council this summer.
If the application is approved, the project is expected to take up to two years to build.
A public consultation on the plans is now under way and newsletters have been sent to more than 5,000 households and businesses in Kidderminster.
Visit powergenerationmidlands.co.uk to fill out an online questionnaire before June 26.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-29--Kidderminster girl, 7, rings bell to mark end of cancer treatment

A BRAVE little girl from Kidderminster celebrated the end of two tough years of cancer treatment by ringing a bell in her street .
Franche Primary schoolgirl Mia Chamberlain was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia two years ago - at the age of five - after her mum found a lump at the top of her thigh .
Mia was referred to Birmingham Children 's Hospital , and after originally being told she had lymphoma , was diagnosed with leukemia .
Mia Chamberlain was diagnosed with cancer at the age of five Mum-of-two Erin Galloway , 36 , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a doctor say your child has cancer , it completely knocks you off your feet .
`` She was n't poorly , she was full of energy , she had none of the typical symptoms you would expect from childhood leukemia .
She just woke up one morning with a lump on her thigh .
`` In an instant , your life changes - for everybody , not just for Mia - her younger brother Thomas especially .
Everything just stops .
It 's just awful . ''
Mia began intensive chemotherapy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , received the brilliant news she was in remission .
Erin said : `` She was very poorly for the first two phases of treatment .
She had a lengthy stay at the children 's hospital because she was n't eating anything .
`` She lost the ability to walk so she 's had to learn to walk all over again .
`` Mia has always had a very good understanding of what was going on .
We were getting a lot of very difficult questions - she asked me outright once if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All you want to say is no , but you ca n't because you do n't know that .
I just picked her up and said the doctors were doing everything they could and gave her a big cuddle . ''
After two years of treatment , seven-year-old Mia went to hospital for her last session of intravenous chemo in April , and on May 15 , she took her last oral dose .
Erin said : `` Mia took her tablets and threw her arms around me .
`` The next day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mummy , no chemo today ' .
`` I 'm still pinching myself - she 's just getting on with her life like nothing happened . ''
Mia was looking forward to ringing the hospital bell to mark the end of her treatment , but due to coronavirus , the celebration had to be postponed .
Erin said : `` We had booked a party for her and all of her friends .
Because she has been immunosuppressed she has n't been able to attend any parties .
Cancer survivor Mia Chamberlain and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of her chemo treatment '' She was feeling quite deflated after two years of everyone telling her how amazing the end of her treatment would be . ''
Determined to make the day special , Mia 's family got hold of a charity which supplies the bells , and arranged for her dad and grandparents to stand at the top of the drive to watch Mia ring it .
Erin said : `` It was only meant to be family , but it just snowballed .
`` A few of her friends turned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her headteacher at Franche and the assistant head , plus lots of people from our estate in Habberley .
`` Everyone maintained social distancing , but it was just great to be able to share that moment with everyone . ''

Franche Primary schoolgirl Mia Chamberlain was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia two years ago - at the age of five - after her mum found a lump at the top of her thigh.
Mia was referred to Birmingham Children's Hospital, and after originally being told she had lymphoma, was diagnosed with leukemia.
Mia Chamberlain was diagnosed with cancer at the age of five
Mum-of-two Erin Galloway, 36, said: "It's horrific when you hear a doctor say your child has cancer, it completely knocks you off your feet.
"She wasn't poorly, she was full of energy, she had none of the typical symptoms you would expect from childhood leukemia. She just woke up one morning with a lump on her thigh.
"In an instant, your life changes - for everybody, not just for Mia - her younger brother Thomas especially. Everything just stops. It's just awful."
Mia began intensive chemotherapy, and after the first phase of treatment, received the brilliant news she was in remission.
Erin said: "She was very poorly for the first two phases of treatment. She had a lengthy stay at the children's hospital because she wasn't eating anything.
"She lost the ability to walk so she's had to learn to walk all over again.
"Mia has always had a very good understanding of what was going on. We were getting a lot of very difficult questions - she asked me outright once if she was going to die.
"All you want to say is no, but you can't because you don't know that. I just picked her up and said the doctors were doing everything they could and gave her a big cuddle."
After two years of treatment, seven-year-old Mia went to hospital for her last session of intravenous chemo in April, and on May 15, she took her last oral dose.
Erin said: "Mia took her tablets and threw her arms around me.
"The next day, she said to me 'guess what mummy, no chemo today'.
"I'm still pinching myself - she's just getting on with her life like nothing happened."
Mia was looking forward to ringing the hospital bell to mark the end of her treatment, but due to coronavirus, the celebration had to be postponed.
Erin said: "We had booked a party for her and all of her friends. Because she has been immunosuppressed she hasn't been able to attend any parties.
Cancer survivor Mia Chamberlain and her little brother Thomas celebrate the end of her chemo treatment
"She was feeling quite deflated after two years of everyone telling her how amazing the end of her treatment would be."
Determined to make the day special, Mia's family got hold of a charity which supplies the bells, and arranged for her dad and grandparents to stand at the top of the drive to watch Mia ring it.
Erin said: "It was only meant to be family, but it just snowballed.
"A few of her friends turned up and her three class teachers, her headteacher at Franche and the assistant head, plus lots of people from our estate in Habberley.
"Everyone maintained social distancing, but it was just great to be able to share that moment with everyone."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-29--Paramedic jailed and struck off over indecent images involving two-year-old child

A NURSE and paramedic was jailed and struck off after being found guilty of downloading almost 1,000 indecent images and videos of children - including some of the most serious abuse involving a two-year-old child .
Steven Gill who was a registered paramedic but was employed as a nurse by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust was found guilty of possessing and distributing almost a thousand indecent images of children in December 2018 including 98 images showing the most serious abuse involving very young and vulnerable children .
Birmingham Crown Court was told in 2018 how Gill had been accessing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal devices using several different email addresses .
Gill was arrested in August 2017 on suspicion of possessing and distributing indecent images of children and referred himself to the HCPC in November saying he was currently employed as a nurse by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust and his last post as a paramedic had been taking occasional work as a self-employed ‘ event ’ paramedic .
Gill pleaded not guilty to possessing and distributing indecent images of children at Birmingham Crown Court in 2018 and maintained his innocence when the tribunal met in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tribunal he was “ ashamed and embarrassed to have been involved ” telling the panel that his conviction was a “ gross and inexplicable departure from character.
” He later told the panel he had “ inadvertently ” downloaded the images and his mistake was not reporting the images as soon as he had encountered them .
Gill told the panel that whilst he accepted he could never be a paramedic again he would “ always wear green ” in his heart .
Gill was also placed on the sex offenders register for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a sexual harm prevention order ( SHPO ) for five years .
An interim suspension order was put in place for 18 months from May 8 to allow an appeal to be lodged and determined if Gill wished to do so .

Steven Gill who was a registered paramedic employed as a nurse by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust was found guilty of possessing and distributing almost a thousand indecent images of children in December 2018. The charges included 98 images showing the most serious abuse involving very young and vulnerable children.
Birmingham Crown Court was told Gill had been accessing the images and videos for two years on personal devices using several different email addresses.
As a result he was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, placed on the Sex Offender Register for 10 years and was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for five years.
Now Gill has been struck off the paramedic's register held by The Health and Care Professions Council.
The move follows Gill's arrest in August 2017 on suspicion of possessing and distributing indecent images of children and subsequent self-referral to the The Health and Care Professions Council in November.
At the time he was employed as a nurse by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust and told the council he had been taking occasional work as a self-employed ‘event’ paramedic.
Gill pleaded not guilty to possessing and distributing indecent images of children when he appeared at court and maintained his innocence at the Health and Care Professions Council's tribunal in February this year.
Gill told the tribunal he was “ashamed and embarrassed to have been involved.” and said his conviction was a “gross and inexplicable departure from character.”
He said he had “inadvertently” downloaded the images and his mistake was not reporting the images as soon as he had encountered them.
Gill told the panel that whilst he accepted he could never be a paramedic again he would “always wear green” in his heart.
An interim suspension order was put in place for 18 months from May 8 to allow an appeal to be lodged.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-29--Minister hints beer gardens will be first phase of pub reopening

Environment Secretary George Eustice confirmed that pubs with beer gardens are likely to be the first venues in the hospitality sector to reopen .
Asked about those self-employed workers who can not go back to work , Mr Eustice told Sky News : “ The sectors that are going to have the greatest challenge getting back to work , which we recognise , and I ’ m sure the Chancellor recognises this too – the hospitality sector and some of those other ticketed venues , in particular cinemas and in particular theatres , restaurants and pubs , will also face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ And that is why we won ’ t be loosening the restrictions on them until at least July and even then it is likely that in the case of pubs and restaurants it will begin with beer gardens and outdoor areas only.
” On Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s aide Dominic Cummings , Mr Eustice added : “ I think Dominic Cummings gave a very detailed account of what he did and the judgments he made and why he did what he did on Monday in that very long press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , look there will be people who will look at the decisions he took and say well was that quite the right thing to do ?
He might have done differently .
“ He acknowledged that and I think really though we just need to move on and I don ’ t think what happened and what he did and what he explained should affect at all people ’ s approach to this .
”

Asked about those self-employed workers who cannot go back to work, Mr Eustice told Sky News: “The sectors that are going to have the greatest challenge getting back to work, which we recognise, and I’m sure the Chancellor recognises this too – the hospitality sector and some of those other ticketed venues, in particular cinemas and in particular theatres, restaurants and pubs, will also face a challenge getting back in to operation.
“And that is why we won’t be loosening the restrictions on them until at least July and even then it is likely that in the case of pubs and restaurants it will begin with beer gardens and outdoor areas only.”
On Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s aide Dominic Cummings, Mr Eustice added: “I think Dominic Cummings gave a very detailed account of what he did and the judgments he made and why he did what he did on Monday in that very long press conference.
“He acknowledged at the time, look there will be people who will look at the decisions he took and say well was that quite the right thing to do? He might have done differently.
“He acknowledged that and I think really though we just need to move on and I don’t think what happened and what he did and what he explained should affect at all people’s approach to this.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-29--This week's Camera Club pictures

This week's Camera Club pictures

Some wonderful shots from our Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club members this week .

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-29--Images show plans for short-term accommodation in Stourport

A PLAN submitted on Tuesday to turn a car park in Stourport into short-term accommodation for people at risk of homelessness has already received 130 objections .
Wyre Forest District Council and Public Sector Plc have submitted an application to develop short-term residential accommodation on the temporary car park site , which is located within the conservation area in Bridge Street .
The land has been used as a car park since the old Lloyds Garage was demolished in 2014 after Wyre Forest District Council served the owners with a compulsory purchase order , saying the site was needed for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forest District Council ’ s cabinet member for economic regeneration , planning and capital investments , said : `` The council ’ s Corporate Plan includes a priority on having good quality and affordable housing for all .
`` Through this development , we can help deliver on this vision and we will take this new build as an opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint through the inclusion of renewable technology in the project.
” If approved , the three-storey building would provide 18 ensuite rooms for people who are homeless or at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ space for staff .
The property would have its own garden , smoking shelter and car parking facilities , while 14 spaces would be retained for use as a council-managed public car park .
From 9am to 5pm , the building would be managed by two part-time members of staff , who would work with occupants to help them find more permanent accommodation .
According to the planning application , the proposal is in response to the council 's statutory duty to provide accommodation under the Homeless Reduction Act .
The council says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the act has increased , while advice from government has reduced its ability to place vulnerable people in accommodation outside the district .
In 2018/19 , a total of 847 applications were made to the council under the act - 151 of which were prevented from becoming homeless and 119 had their homelessness relieved .
181 were put up in B & Bs or hotels and 66 at 2-3 New Street in Stourport .
As demand continues to rise , the council says it will be forced to look at more costly and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been met with criticism from local residents , with 130 already submitting formal objections .
One objector said : `` The area is in the middle of a commercial area with off licences , pubs , fun fair , fast food outlets and amusement arcades which all result in noise and pollution .
I 'm sure people requiring temporary ensuite accommodation need to be located in a quieter residential area .
`` As a town , Stourport needs commercial development on this site to encourage the local economy . ''
Another comment from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a Bridge Street for 35 years , said : `` The site was purchased by a compulsory purchase order and a family that worked there for generations offering a valuable service were forced out .
`` This was bad enough , but the local population and visitors were promised a development which would open up the basins with new shops and a new marina .
`` This has failed to materialise and the former building was turned into a temporary car park .
`` The location of the proposed plan is in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ street which is often very noisy with traffic coming and going all day and night and certainly not suitable for short-term accommodation by two pubs , a large off-licence , a large funfair , two amusement arcades and six takeaway shops . ''
In 2014 , a planning application was approved to demolish the former Lloyd 's Garage building and use the space as a temporary car park for two years .
The council had originally planned to use the site to provide a gateway to the town 's canal basins , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging to bring forward suitable plans for redevelopment which were commercially viable .

Wyre Forest District Council and Public Sector Plc have submitted an application to develop short-term residential accommodation on the temporary car park site, which is located within the conservation area in Bridge Street.
The land has been used as a car park since the old Lloyds Garage was demolished in 2014 after Wyre Forest District Council served the owners with a compulsory purchase order, saying the site was needed for redevelopment.
Councillor Fran Oborski, Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and capital investments, said: "The council’s Corporate Plan includes a priority on having good quality and affordable housing for all.
"Through this development, we can help deliver on this vision and we will take this new build as an opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint through the inclusion of renewable technology in the project.”
If approved, the three-storey building would provide 18 ensuite rooms for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, plus office space for staff.
The property would have its own garden, smoking shelter and car parking facilities, while 14 spaces would be retained for use as a council-managed public car park.
From 9am to 5pm, the building would be managed by two part-time members of staff, who would work with occupants to help them find more permanent accommodation.
According to the planning application, the proposal is in response to the council's statutory duty to provide accommodation under the Homeless Reduction Act.
The council says the number of people seeking help under the act has increased, while advice from government has reduced its ability to place vulnerable people in accommodation outside the district.
In 2018/19, a total of 847 applications were made to the council under the act - 151 of which were prevented from becoming homeless and 119 had their homelessness relieved. 181 were put up in B&Bs or hotels and 66 at 2-3 New Street in Stourport.
As demand continues to rise, the council says it will be forced to look at more costly and out-of-district placements.
The planning application has been met with criticism from local residents, with 130 already submitting formal objections.
One objector said: "The area is in the middle of a commercial area with off licences, pubs, fun fair, fast food outlets and amusement arcades which all result in noise and pollution. I'm sure people requiring temporary ensuite accommodation need to be located in a quieter residential area.
"As a town, Stourport needs commercial development on this site to encourage the local economy."
Another comment from a local trader, who has worked in a Bridge Street for 35 years, said: "The site was purchased by a compulsory purchase order and a family that worked there for generations offering a valuable service were forced out.
"This was bad enough, but the local population and visitors were promised a development which would open up the basins with new shops and a new marina.
"This has failed to materialise and the former building was turned into a temporary car park.
Read more:
"The location of the proposed plan is in the middle of a very busy tourist street which is often very noisy with traffic coming and going all day and night and certainly not suitable for short-term accommodation by two pubs, a large off-licence, a large funfair, two amusement arcades and six takeaway shops."
In 2014, a planning application was approved to demolish the former Lloyd's Garage building and use the space as a temporary car park for two years.
The council had originally planned to use the site to provide a gateway to the town's canal basins, but said last year it had found it challenging to bring forward suitable plans for redevelopment which were commercially viable.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-29--Three new coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire hospitals

THERE have been three more deaths in Worcestershire 's hospitals from coronavirus .
In the latest daily figures from NHS England , there have been another three deaths reported by the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust .
This brings the county total to 279 .
The latest figures mean there have now been 253 deaths at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust hospitals , compared to 26 in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust .
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced ( the deaths did not all happen on the same day ) .
Across England , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the Coronavirus ( Covid-19 ) have died , bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 26,383 .
Patients were aged between 35 and 101 years old .
11 of the 149 patients ( aged 70 and 95 ) had no known underlying health condition .
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital .
The health and care NHS trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards , including Worcester City Impatient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Community Hospital , Pershore Community Hospital , the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove , Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward .
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19 .
They do not include deaths outside hospital , such as those in care homes , prisons , ambulances or in the community .

In the latest daily figures from NHS England, there have been another three deaths reported by the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.
This brings the county total to 279.
The latest figures mean there have now been 253 deaths at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust hospitals, compared to 26 in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust.
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced (the deaths did not all happen on the same day).
Across England, a further 149 people who tested positive for the Coronavirus (Covid-19) have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 26,383.
Patients were aged between 35 and 101 years old. 11 of the 149 patients (aged 70 and 95) had no known underlying health condition.
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
The health and care NHS trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards, including Worcester City Impatient Unit, Malvern Community Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital, Pershore Community Hospital, the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove, Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward.
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19. They do not include deaths outside hospital, such as those in care homes, prisons, ambulances or in the community.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-30--New indoor market to open in old Argos shop in Kidderminster

A NEW indoor market to help budding businesses and entrepreneurs is on its way to Kidderminster .
Work is under way to transform the former Argos store in the Swan Centre into an indoor hub for stallholders and businesses called 'Pop Up Central ' .
The scheme has seen Kidderminster pub owner Adam Wilcox team up with bosses at the shopping centre to make the project a reality .
It is hoped the market will provide a vital boost to the town 's economy during the post-coronavirus recovery by offering businesses a chance to set up on site at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transformed and social distancing measures will be put in place Adam , who runs Pennies and The Vault in Kidderminster , said : `` It 's a joint effort to get people get back into town .
`` It 's already hard for potential business owners with the rising costs of running a business and then on top of that there is the effect of Covid-19 , with redundancies and closures . ''
Adam said the project is for the benefit of the community and hopes it will inspire people to launch their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay a flat low weekly rent and their own public liability insurance costs , but utility costs and rates will be covered by Adam in a bid to help businesses grow in these uncertain times .
Phil Murphy , asset manger at the Swan Centre said : `` I 've been working with Adam to see how we can bring more life into the town centre .
`` We can provide the unit at a minimal cost so people can try out their business ideas .
It can benefit the town centre come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giving back to the community so to they can use it and try out new ideas . ''
Already more than 20 businesses have expressed an interest in setting up in the space , including vintage clothes and antiques stalls .
It is anticipated between 30 and 40 stalls will be able to set up at full capacity , with the former Argos building covering two floors .
The market will cover two floors and can cater for up to 40 stalls Adam hopes hairdressers and nail salons will eventually make use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hoped the market will be open in August and it will strictly follow social distancing measures , with hand sanitation points , marked walkways and separate in and out exits .
Stalls will also be separated to enforce social distancing to keep shoppers and staff safe .
It is not the only new venture to look forward to in Kidderminster when lockdown is lifted , as Adam is beginning work to open a brand new real ale and cider house in the former Harvey 's Jewellers building at the centre .
Meanwhile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food offering at Pennies to American and Italian food when it is allowed to safely reopen under government guidelines .
Anyone interested in setting up at Pop Up Central should email popupcentralltd @ gmail.com .

Work is under way to transform the former Argos store in the Swan Centre into an indoor hub for stallholders and businesses called 'Pop Up Central'.
The scheme has seen Kidderminster pub owner Adam Wilcox team up with bosses at the shopping centre to make the project a reality.
It is hoped the market will provide a vital boost to the town's economy during the post-coronavirus recovery by offering businesses a chance to set up on site at a low cost.
The site will be transformed and social distancing measures will be put in place
Adam, who runs Pennies and The Vault in Kidderminster, said: "It's a joint effort to get people get back into town.
"It's already hard for potential business owners with the rising costs of running a business and then on top of that there is the effect of Covid-19, with redundancies and closures."
Adam said the project is for the benefit of the community and hopes it will inspire people to launch their businesses.
Pitch owners will have to pay a flat low weekly rent and their own public liability insurance costs, but utility costs and rates will be covered by Adam in a bid to help businesses grow in these uncertain times.
Phil Murphy, asset manger at the Swan Centre said: "I've been working with Adam to see how we can bring more life into the town centre.
"We can provide the unit at a minimal cost so people can try out their business ideas. It can benefit the town centre come rain or shine and it's about giving back to the community so to they can use it and try out new ideas."
Already more than 20 businesses have expressed an interest in setting up in the space, including vintage clothes and antiques stalls.
It is anticipated between 30 and 40 stalls will be able to set up at full capacity, with the former Argos building covering two floors.
The market will cover two floors and can cater for up to 40 stalls
Adam hopes hairdressers and nail salons will eventually make use of the rooms at the site.
It is hoped the market will be open in August and it will strictly follow social distancing measures, with hand sanitation points, marked walkways and separate in and out exits.
Stalls will also be separated to enforce social distancing to keep shoppers and staff safe.
It is not the only new venture to look forward to in Kidderminster when lockdown is lifted, as Adam is beginning work to open a brand new real ale and cider house in the former Harvey's Jewellers building at the centre.
Meanwhile, he also plans to expand the food offering at Pennies to American and Italian food when it is allowed to safely reopen under government guidelines.
Anyone interested in setting up at Pop Up Central should email popupcentralltd@gmail.com.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-30--Petition set up as Kidderminster roads turn sticky in the sun

A PETITION has been set up calling on the council to resurface roads around the Spennells estate in Kidderminster which have become sticky and unsightly during the warm weather .
Residents say tar and gravel from roads on the estate have been sticking to their shoes , car tyres and to pets ' paws since the resurfacing job carried out by Worcestershire County Council contractor Ringway last June .
Spennells resident Terri Wilcox said : “ I walked through the estate and was shocked what a state the roads were in .
`` My shoes and pushchair are covered with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can say nothing is wrong with the surface is beyond me - every street we walked through all had the same problem.
” Residents say gravel and tar from the road surface has been sticking to people 's shoes , car tyres and pets ' paws Another neighbour commented on Facebook : `` Once again after just a day of sunshine , the road surface is breaking up and bare tar patches are appearing .
`` The original job was poorly done and a waste of money as it was a perfectly fine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and living room carpet are once again getting tar marks on them .
It really isn ’ t good enough.
” A petition calling on the council to acknowledge the poor quality of the resurfacing job and fix the problem has so far attracted 80 signatures .
District councillor for Spennells , Helen Dyke , said : `` Last year , we advised residents to submit their own individual complaints to the county council and we also compiled a detailed list of complaints and sent it directly to the cabinet member responsible for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not receive a reply and the same problems are back again this year . ''
A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council said : “ All petitions that are submitted to us are considered and are responded to appropriately .
”

Residents say tar and gravel from roads on the estate have been sticking to their shoes, car tyres and to pets' paws since the resurfacing job carried out by Worcestershire County Council contractor Ringway last June.
Spennells resident Terri Wilcox said: “I walked through the estate and was shocked what a state the roads were in.
"My shoes and pushchair are covered with bits stuck to them! How they can say nothing is wrong with the surface is beyond me - every street we walked through all had the same problem.”
Residents say gravel and tar from the road surface has been sticking to people's shoes, car tyres and pets' paws
Another neighbour commented on Facebook: "Once again after just a day of sunshine, the road surface is breaking up and bare tar patches are appearing.
"The original job was poorly done and a waste of money as it was a perfectly fine road surface beforehand.
"Cars paintwork and living room carpet are once again getting tar marks on them. It really isn’t good enough.”
A petition calling on the council to acknowledge the poor quality of the resurfacing job and fix the problem has so far attracted 80 signatures.
District councillor for Spennells, Helen Dyke, said: "Last year, we advised residents to submit their own individual complaints to the county council and we also compiled a detailed list of complaints and sent it directly to the cabinet member responsible for Highways at County Hall.
"We did not receive a reply and the same problems are back again this year."
A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council said: “All petitions that are submitted to us are considered and are responded to appropriately.”
View the Change.org petition here.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-30--New lockdown rules announced - what you can and can't do from Monday

PRIME Minister Boris Johnson has announced an easing of lockdown rules in England which will come into force on Monday , June 1 .
Mr Johnson has said that all five of the Government ’ s tests for easing the lockdown are being met , so adjustments can begin being made in England .
They include allowing up to six people to gather outside in public spaces or private gardens .
He told the daily Downing Street press conference : “ I can not and will not throw away all the gains we ’ ve made together and so the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cautious .
“ It ’ s thanks to the caution you ’ ve shown so far that all five met are being met .
“ The result is that we can move forward with adjusting the lockdown in England on Monday.
” What can I do on Monday ?
Groups of up to six people can meet in private gardens provided those from different households continue to stick to social distancing rules by staying two metres apart .
These rules allow people to meet from different households .
Previously , people could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside public place , such as a park .
It means , said Mr Johnson , that people will be able to see both parents or grandparents at once .
It is also the first time since the lockdown began that it allowing people into your garden will be permitted .
But , the two-metre distancing rule still applies for those from different households .
Can I go into someone else 's house ?
No , that is still not allowed .
The Prime Minister said this is because the ability for coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , Mr Johnson did say that people are permitted inside others ' homes if they need to access the garden .
Boris Johnson also said people should “ try to avoid seeing too many households in quick succession '' in order to `` avoid the risk of quick transmission from lots of different families '' .
He added at the Downing Street briefing : “ It remains the case that people should not be inside the homes of their friends and families , unless it is to access the garden . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not most shops .
Some retail , such as outdoor markets and car showrooms , will be able to reopen on June 1 .
But other 'non-essential ' retail including clothes shops will have to wait until June 15 , and then only if the government 's criteria for lifting the lockdown are still being met .
Yes .
The PM announced that from Monday , schools will reopen to more children , saying `` closing schools has deprived children of their education ” .
He went on : `` On Monday we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a safe way by reopening nurseries and other early-years settings and reception year one and year six in primary schools.
” He said from June 15 , secondary schools will begin to provide “ some face to face contact time ” for years 10 and 12 .
What about those vulnerable people who are shielding ?
Chief medical officer for England Professor Chris Whitty said it is hoped that “ relatively soon ” the number of infections will be low enough to start letting shielded people leave home .
Jay , 33 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her 10-year-old son , asked the Downing Street briefing how the lockdown was going to be eased for the extremely vulnerable , saying she felt that people like her had been forgotten .
Prof Whitty said the number of infections must come down to reduce the risk for the shielded and vulnerable .
“ And we will get to a stage , we hope relatively soon , where the absolute risk of people has gone down to a low enough level it will be possible in stages for people to leave shielding , @ @ @ @

Mr Johnson has said that all five of the Government’s tests for easing the lockdown are being met, so adjustments can begin being made in England.
They include allowing up to six people to gather outside in public spaces or private gardens.
He told the daily Downing Street press conference: “I cannot and will not throw away all the gains we’ve made together and so the changes we’re making are limited and cautious.
“It’s thanks to the caution you’ve shown so far that all five met are being met.
“The result is that we can move forward with adjusting the lockdown in England on Monday.”
What can I do on Monday?
Groups of up to six people can meet in private gardens provided those from different households continue to stick to social distancing rules by staying two metres apart.
These rules allow people to meet from different households.
Previously, people could only meet one other person in an outside public place, such as a park.
It means, said Mr Johnson, that people will be able to see both parents or grandparents at once.
It is also the first time since the lockdown began that it allowing people into your garden will be permitted.
But, the two-metre distancing rule still applies for those from different households.
Can I go into someone else's house?
No, that is still not allowed. The Prime Minister said this is because the ability for coronavirus to spread is far lower outdoors.
However, Mr Johnson did say that people are permitted inside others' homes if they need to access the garden.
Boris Johnson also said people should “try to avoid seeing too many households in quick succession" in order to "avoid the risk of quick transmission from lots of different families".
He added at the Downing Street briefing: “It remains the case that people should not be inside the homes of their friends and families, unless it is to access the garden."
Can I go shopping?
Not yet, or at least, not most shops.
Some retail, such as outdoor markets and car showrooms, will be able to reopen on June 1.
But other 'non-essential' retail including clothes shops will have to wait until June 15, and then only if the government's criteria for lifting the lockdown are still being met.
Will schools reopen?
Yes. The PM announced that from Monday, schools will reopen to more children, saying "closing schools has deprived children of their education”.
He went on: "On Monday we will start to put this right in a safe way by reopening nurseries and other early-years settings and reception year one and year six in primary schools.”
He said from June 15, secondary schools will begin to provide “some face to face contact time” for years 10 and 12.
What about those vulnerable people who are shielding?
Chief medical officer for England Professor Chris Whitty said it is hoped that “relatively soon” the number of infections will be low enough to start letting shielded people leave home.
Jay, 33, from Horsham, who is shielding with her 10-year-old son, asked the Downing Street briefing how the lockdown was going to be eased for the extremely vulnerable, saying she felt that people like her had been forgotten.
Prof Whitty said the number of infections must come down to reduce the risk for the shielded and vulnerable.
“And we will get to a stage, we hope relatively soon, where the absolute risk of people has gone down to a low enough level it will be possible in stages for people to leave shielding,” he said.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-31--New rules for Diamond Bus passengers as lockdown eases

A SERIES of new measures are being introduced on Diamond bus services in Wyre Forest to keep passengers and drivers safe during the coronavirus lockdown .
The operator has been running a reduced service on its buses for the last few weeks , and is now implementing a number of social distancing rules as it prepares to welcome more passengers back on board .
Passengers will be required to leave the seat next to them empty unless travelling with their own children .
The company has also adopted a no change policy to reduce the need for cash handling and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tickets available across all services , passengers are being urged to pay by cashless methods where possible .
• Fears for elderly as Kidderminster to Worcester bus suspended • Two more tips in Worcestershire reopen - but Kidderminster 's still closed It is expected that services will initially operate at around 35 per cent of their normal passenger capacity to ensure passengers can distance themselves from one another .
Diamond is also working with its technology providers to find a way to help passengers see how busy services are before they plan their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with an anti-bacterial disinfectant kit for drivers to use to clean working areas and anywhere on the bus , should they deem it necessary .
Drivers will also have access to visors and gloves to wear while on duty .
More intensive cleaning regimes have been introduced at the Diamond depots , and Rotala , which owns Diamond Bus , has invested in thermal fogging equipment for each depot to eradicate coronavirus on its vehicles .
The equipment is effective against Covid-19 and will be used across the fleet every night from Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bob Baker , said : “ At Diamond Bus we have been committed to ensuring the safety of our passengers and drivers during the Covid-19 lockdown and now that we move back towards normal life we are maintaining that objective .
`` The decision of our parent company Rotala to invest in daily disinfection fogging equipment is a proactive way for us to reassure the public that it is safe to use our buses and give them the confidence to do so . ''

The operator has been running a reduced service on its buses for the last few weeks, and is now implementing a number of social distancing rules as it prepares to welcome more passengers back on board.
Passengers will be required to leave the seat next to them empty unless travelling with their own children.
The company has also adopted a no change policy to reduce the need for cash handling and, with contactless payment and mobile app tickets available across all services, passengers are being urged to pay by cashless methods where possible.
Read more:
It is expected that services will initially operate at around 35 per cent of their normal passenger capacity to ensure passengers can distance themselves from one another.
Diamond is also working with its technology providers to find a way to help passengers see how busy services are before they plan their trip.
Every bus has been fitted with an anti-bacterial disinfectant kit for drivers to use to clean working areas and anywhere on the bus, should they deem it necessary.
Drivers will also have access to visors and gloves to wear while on duty.
More intensive cleaning regimes have been introduced at the Diamond depots, and Rotala, which owns Diamond Bus, has invested in thermal fogging equipment for each depot to eradicate coronavirus on its vehicles.
The equipment is effective against Covid-19 and will be used across the fleet every night from Monday.
Managing director for Diamond Bus, Bob Baker, said: “At Diamond Bus we have been committed to ensuring the safety of our passengers and drivers during the Covid-19 lockdown and now that we move back towards normal life we are maintaining that objective.
"The decision of our parent company Rotala to invest in daily disinfection fogging equipment is a proactive way for us to reassure the public that it is safe to use our buses and give them the confidence to do so."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-31--This is when the Sky Sports subscription pause will end

Sky Sports customers who paused their subscriptions due to the Covid-19 crisis will have to start paying for the sporting package soon .
The move by the broadcasting giant gave customers an alternative to cancelling their account back in March , which could have left them having to pay an early cancellation fee .
Here ’ s what customers need to know .
When are subscription payments due to begin again ?
For those that have paused their subscriptions , payments are due to begin again from 19 June , provided that more sporting events , such as the Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League is currently scheduled to resume from June 17 , 2020 .
The Bundesliga returned on May 16 and is currently available on BT Sport , but as soon as return dates for other sports on BT Sport are announced , these will be publicised widely .
Some live golf has already returned , and the PGA Tour is due to restart on June 11 .
The European Tour will then follow , starting with the British Masters between July 22 and 25 , but as soon as return dates for other golf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ publicise this to customers .
What do I need to do ?
The Sky website explains that customers don ’ t need to do anything to resume their subscription payments .
They will restart automatically .
The Sky website says , “ Live action is returning to Sky Sports !
The Premier League has announced that the 19/20 season is set to return on Wednesday , June 17 .
“ If you paused your Sky Sports package , you don ’ t need to do anything to start enjoying the live action again.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will it appear on my next bill ?
If you paused your subscription , billing will resume in June .
Sky explains : “ Billing will resume for Sky Sports Golf & Premier League subscribers including those on Complete Sky Sports , single channel packs , and also two , or three channel packs in June .
“ You will not be charged for Sports for any days before June 19 , 2020 .
This will appear in your next bill.
” A spokesperson in the Sky community forum further added to this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the process of returning paused sport customers to billing , which requires sufficient time to communicate and implement fully.
” How much will I pay ?
Sky explains that it will depend on your billing date , but you won ’ t be charged for any days before June 19 , 2020 , and this will appear in your bill .
Once your bill has been generated , you can then check your bill online in the ‘ My Account ’ section .

The move by the broadcasting giant gave customers an alternative to cancelling their account back in March, which could have left them having to pay an early cancellation fee.
Here’s what customers need to know.
When are subscription payments due to begin again?
For those that have paused their subscriptions, payments are due to begin again from 19 June, provided that more sporting events, such as the Premier League, begin again.
The Premier League is currently scheduled to resume from June 17, 2020.
The Bundesliga returned on May 16 and is currently available on BT Sport, but as soon as return dates for other sports on BT Sport are announced, these will be publicised widely.
Some live golf has already returned, and the PGA Tour is due to restart on June 11.
The European Tour will then follow, starting with the British Masters between July 22 and 25, but as soon as return dates for other golf events are confirmed, Sky will again publicise this to customers.
What do I need to do?
The Sky website explains that customers don’t need to do anything to resume their subscription payments. They will restart automatically.
The Sky website says, “Live action is returning to Sky Sports! The Premier League has announced that the 19/20 season is set to return on Wednesday, June 17.
“If you paused your Sky Sports package, you don’t need to do anything to start enjoying the live action again.”
When will billing resume and when will it appear on my next bill?
If you paused your subscription, billing will resume in June.
Sky explains: “Billing will resume for Sky Sports Golf & Premier League subscribers including those on Complete Sky Sports, single channel packs, and also two, or three channel packs in June.
“You will not be charged for Sports for any days before June 19, 2020. This will appear in your next bill.”
A spokesperson in the Sky community forum further added to this, explaining, “We are beginning the process of returning paused sport customers to billing, which requires sufficient time to communicate and implement fully.”
How much will I pay?
Sky explains that it will depend on your billing date, but you won’t be charged for any days before June 19, 2020, and this will appear in your bill.
Once your bill has been generated, you can then check your bill online in the ‘My Account’ section.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-31--Social distancing 'gone out the window' in Bewdley, say police

POLICE say social distancing `` appears to have gone out the window '' in Bewdley town centre .
Officers took to social media to urge people to keep their distance when visiting the town , saying those who were ignoring social distancing rules were potentially putting others at risk .
Wyre Forest Police shared a message from Bewdley Safer Neighbourhood Team on Saturday , saying : `` Another beautiful day , sun shining and the town very busy .
`` Unfortunately social distancing appears to have gone out the window , potentially increasing the risk for everyone .
`` Social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when your out and about .
Please if you decide to go out remember to keep your distance .
# StayAlert # StaySafe '' Provisional figures show a significant reduction in the number of fines issued by police forces since coronavirus lockdown restrictions were eased in England .
Between May 12 and May 25,1,019 fines were given in England .
Data from this period shows the most fines - 178 - were given on Tuesday , May 12 , the day before measures eased in England .
Since the start of lockdown , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fixed penalty notices ( FPN ) since restrictions were introduced , according to the National Police Chief 's Council .
That 's 27 since restrictions were eased .
In neighbouring areas , West Midlands Police had handed out 442 FPNs , Gloucestershire had 245 , Staffordshire 53 and Warwickshire 40 .

Officers took to social media to urge people to keep their distance when visiting the town, saying those who were ignoring social distancing rules were potentially putting others at risk.
Wyre Forest Police shared a message from Bewdley Safer Neighbourhood Team on Saturday, saying: "Another beautiful day, sun shining and the town very busy.
"Unfortunately social distancing appears to have gone out the window, potentially increasing the risk for everyone.
Read more:
"Social distancing is still very much a requirement when your out and about. Please if you decide to go out remember to keep your distance. #StayAlert #StaySafe"
Provisional figures show a significant reduction in the number of fines issued by police forces since coronavirus lockdown restrictions were eased in England.
Between May 12 and May 25,1,019 fines were given in England.
Data from this period shows the most fines - 178 - were given on Tuesday, May 12, the day before measures eased in England.
Since the start of lockdown, West Mercia Police has handed out 177 fixed penalty notices (FPN) since restrictions were introduced, according to the National Police Chief's Council. That's 27 since restrictions were eased.
In neighbouring areas, West Midlands Police had handed out 442 FPNs, Gloucestershire had 245, Staffordshire 53 and Warwickshire 40.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--Car park changes in Wyre Forest - what drivers need to know

DRIVERS will have to pay to park in council-owned car parks across Wyre Forest next week - but NHS and social care staff will still be able to park for free if they display a pass .
Wyre Forest District Council is reinstating its car parking charges from Monday , June 1 , after suspending fees on March 27 to support key workers during the coronavirus pandemic .
From the start of June , car parking machines will not be in use in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus , so people using the car parks will either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by purchasing a season ticket online .
• Dog controls and street drinking - should measures be extended in Wyre Forest ?
The decision not to accept cash payments has been criticised by some residents who questioned how elderly drivers without access to the internet are expected to pay .
One reader commented on Facebook : “ Not everyone has or knows how use a smartphone !
Ridiculous.
” Another said : “ I won ’ t be downloading an app on my phone nor will I be purchasing a season ticket .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to use the services provided by businesses in Kidderminster .
`` If I ’ m prepared to take the risk , I should be able to use the machine.
” The council said it has seen an increase in the number of people using its car parks since the government eased lockdown restrictions .
The impact has been particularly noticeable in Bewdley and Stourport , where visitors from outside the district are returning in numbers , despite the fact that many facilities such as restaurants and pubs remain closed .
Wyre Forest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ putting greater demand on council services such as clearing litter and emptying bins .
Cabinet member for operational services Councillor John Thomas said : “ We have waived all parking fees for two months but we feel that , with the gradual easing of lockdown , now is the appropriate time for them to be reintroduced .
“ The income from car parking makes an important contribution to the council ’ s overall financial position and we can not continue to offer free parking , especially as the Government has not given a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faced by councils .
“ However , we recognise the efforts and contribution that frontline NHS and social care workers continue to make in the fight against Covid-19 and that ’ s why they will continue to be exempt from charges if they are on duty and display the pass provided by their employer .
“ We know that some residents and visitors prefer to pay for parking using cash .
But that just can not happen at this time .
`` It would simply not be safe to allow machines to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to minimise the risk for residents and visitors so that they don ’ t have to touch the surfaces other people have touched and we also want to avoid them queuing in close quarters.
” Officers will be enforcing parking charges from June 1 .
On duty NHS or social care staff will need to display a pass from their employers to enjoy free parking .
The council is honouring its pledge to extend existing season tickets by three months without charge .
Season ticket holders are asked to contact Just Park about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on how to pay by telephone or app on your mobile phone is available from the council ’ s website - wyreforestdc.gov.uk/streets-and-parking/parking/cashless-parking .
More information on ticket prices , including how to apply online , can be found at wyreforestdc.gov.uk/streets-and-parking/parking/season-tickets .

Wyre Forest District Council is reinstating its car parking charges from Monday, June 1, after suspending fees on March 27 to support key workers during the coronavirus pandemic.
From the start of June, car parking machines will not be in use in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus, so people using the car parks will either have to pay by mobile phone or by purchasing a season ticket online.
The decision not to accept cash payments has been criticised by some residents who questioned how elderly drivers without access to the internet are expected to pay.
One reader commented on Facebook: “Not everyone has or knows how use a smartphone! Ridiculous.”
Another said: “I won’t be downloading an app on my phone nor will I be purchasing a season ticket. Looks like I won’t be able to use the services provided by businesses in Kidderminster.
"If I’m prepared to take the risk, I should be able to use the machine.”
The council said it has seen an increase in the number of people using its car parks since the government eased lockdown restrictions.
The impact has been particularly noticeable in Bewdley and Stourport, where visitors from outside the district are returning in numbers, despite the fact that many facilities such as restaurants and pubs remain closed.
Wyre Forest Council says the influx of visitors is putting greater demand on council services such as clearing litter and emptying bins.
Cabinet member for operational services Councillor John Thomas said: “We have waived all parking fees for two months but we feel that, with the gradual easing of lockdown, now is the appropriate time for them to be reintroduced.
“The income from car parking makes an important contribution to the council’s overall financial position and we cannot continue to offer free parking, especially as the Government has not given a guarantee that it will cover all losses faced by councils.
“However, we recognise the efforts and contribution that frontline NHS and social care workers continue to make in the fight against Covid-19 and that’s why they will continue to be exempt from charges if they are on duty and display the pass provided by their employer.
“We know that some residents and visitors prefer to pay for parking using cash. But that just cannot happen at this time.
"It would simply not be safe to allow machines to be used at this time. We want to minimise the risk for residents and visitors so that they don’t have to touch the surfaces other people have touched and we also want to avoid them queuing in close quarters.”
Officers will be enforcing parking charges from June 1. On duty NHS or social care staff will need to display a pass from their employers to enjoy free parking.
The council is honouring its pledge to extend existing season tickets by three months without charge. Season ticket holders are asked to contact Just Park about their expiry date at justpark.com.
Information on how to pay by telephone or app on your mobile phone is available from the council’s website - wyreforestdc.gov.uk/streets-and-parking/parking/cashless-parking.
More information on ticket prices, including how to apply online, can be found at wyreforestdc.gov.uk/streets-and-parking/parking/season-tickets.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-31--Death notices from this week's Kidderminster Shuttle

The following death notices were published in the Kidderminster Shuttle this week : For more information or to leave your @ @ @ @ @


kidderminstershuttle--2020-06-01--Warning following out of control wildfire in Wyre Forest

FIREFIGHTERS from across the county battled a rapidly spreading wildfire in Wyre Forest yesterday .
Crews from Wyre Forest , Cleobury Mortimer , Redditch and Droitwich fire stations responded to a forest fire at Tanners Hill after the alarm was raised yesterday afternoon .
Firefighters and a total of nine engines worked through the afternoon to bring the 1.5 hectare wildfire , which had been spreading quickly due to the wind , under control .
A spokesperson from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue said there is `` no indication of any investigation '' and there was n't `` anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes after firefighters across the country dealt with incidents involving out of control barbecue fires at the weekend .
The service says the fire `` does not appear '' to be one of those cases , but advised people to take extra special care .
`` Anybody wishing to a have a barbecue should do this at there own home '' , the fire service said .
`` Glasses and tins can also set off fires as well so be vigilant and careful . ''
The damping down of the fire continued through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the forest area .
The incident was officially closed this morning .

Crews from Wyre Forest, Cleobury Mortimer, Redditch and Droitwich fire stations responded to a forest fire at Tanners Hill after the alarm was raised yesterday afternoon.
Firefighters and a total of nine engines worked through the afternoon to bring the 1.5 hectare wildfire, which had been spreading quickly due to the wind, under control.
A spokesperson from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue said there is "no indication of any investigation" and there wasn't "anything suspicious" about the fire.
This comes after firefighters across the country dealt with incidents involving out of control barbecue fires at the weekend.
The service says the fire "does not appear" to be one of those cases, but advised people to take extra special care.
"Anybody wishing to a have a barbecue should do this at there own home", the fire service said.
"Glasses and tins can also set off fires as well so be vigilant and careful."
The damping down of the fire continued through the night, with crew closely monitoring the forest area. The incident was officially closed this morning.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-06-01--Burger King reopens in Kidderminster after coronavirus lockdown

BURGER King will be serving up Whoppers again in Kidderminster after announcing it will be reopening in Brierley Hill .
@ @ @ @ @ back in business after easing Covid-19 lockdown restrictions .
The restaurant , in Foley Drive @ @ @ @ @ today ( June 1 ) for Drive Thru .
By the end of June , @ @ @ @ @ re-opening 350 restaurants .
Procedures have been put in place to safeguard the health of @ @ @ @ @ customers , following detailed operational testing .
These include additional PPE and extra training for @ @ @ @ @ , contactless delivery options via Deliveroo and Just Eat and Customers won ’ t be @ @ @ @ @ Burger King menu but popular meals like the Chicken Royale , Bacon Double Cheeseburger and @ @ @ @ @

The fastfood chain is getting back in business after easing Covid-19 lockdown restrictions.
The restaurant, in Foley Drive, will be open from today (June 1) for drive-thru.
By the end of June, Burger King is working towards re-opening 350 restaurants.
Procedures have been put in place to safeguard the health of both Burger King employees and customers, following detailed operational testing.
These include additional PPE and extra training for staff, stringent cleaning measures, contactless delivery options via Deliveroo and Just Eat and Customers won’t be able to access the full Burger King menu but popular meals like the Chicken Royale, Bacon Double Cheeseburger and Whopper will be avaliable.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-06-01--Coronavirus: Worcestershire children return to schools despite criticism

SCHOOLS in Worcestershire are welcoming back pupils from today , despite criticism from scientists and teaching unions .
Worcestershire County Council reports 202 schools in the county are affected by the wider reopening for nursery , reception , year 1 and year 6 pupils .
Of the 202 , 94 are local authority maintained schools and the authority says 71 of these will be `` fully opening '' to all affected year groups `` by the end of the week '' .
The authority adds the other 23 will be undertaking a wider reopening after June 5 .
The county @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being carried out at individual schools - with the aim to make them safe and be able to have social distancing in place .
Previously , Stephen Baker , joint secretary of the state education branch of Worcestershire NEU , said more children going to school would create a “ hotbed of infection ” and cause a second spike in Covid-19 cases .
Mr Baker added the test and trace system , that was in part the reason for the easing of the lockdown and school reopening today , was not fit for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government on getting things ready leads us to doubt its effectiveness . ''
Leading scientists have urged great caution with a report by the Independent Sage group saying when whole classes return this could increase the R-value ( he reproduction number showing the rate of Covid-19 's ability to spread ) by 0.3 .

Worcestershire County Council reports 202 schools in the county are affected by the wider reopening for nursery, reception, year 1 and year 6 pupils.
Of the 202, 94 are local authority maintained schools and the authority says 71 of these will be "fully opening" to all affected year groups "by the end of the week".
The authority adds the other 23 will be undertaking a wider reopening after June 5.
The county council last month said risk assessments were being carried out at individual schools - with the aim to make them safe and be able to have social distancing in place.
Previously, Stephen Baker, joint secretary of the state education branch of Worcestershire NEU, said more children going to school would create a “hotbed of infection” and cause a second spike in Covid-19 cases.
Mr Baker added the test and trace system, that was in part the reason for the easing of the lockdown and school reopening today, was not fit for purpose adding "the track record of the government on getting things ready leads us to doubt its effectiveness."
Leading scientists have urged great caution with a report by the Independent Sage group saying when whole classes return this could increase the R-value (he reproduction number showing the rate of Covid-19's ability to spread) by 0.3.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-06-01--Wolverley OAP urges others to volunteer for fire service

A 72-YEAR-OLD pensioner from Wolverley is proof that you 're never too old to volunteer .
On National Volunteers ' Week , Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is seeking to recruit volunteers to promote its safety initiatives in local communities .
Edward Cheshire , who lives in Wolverley , joined the fire service after retiring from a successful career as a business manage rin 2014 .
He had big plans for his retirement , including a six week tour of Australia and a Caribbean cruise , but Edward soon realised he had enough time on his hands to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full-time firefighter , serving with both West Midlands and Devon and Cornwall Fire Service , so when Edward saw an article in the newspaper about volunteering with Hereford and Worcester , he was inspired to pick up the phone and enquire .
Following an interview and induction , Edward soon found himself volunteering 15 hours a week .
Edward said : “ Throughout my career working as a business manager in sales , I had delivered hundreds of presentations which my clients always responded to very positively .
It was clear that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to my volunteering work , and within my first year of volunteering I was delivering fire safety presentations to schools and the wider community .
`` I love this part of the job , however other volunteers prefer to be involved in more practical training exercises - the opportunities are provided to get involved in whatever way you can.
” In 2016 , Edward was awarded Volunteer of the Year , clocking up more than 300 hours of volunteering time that year .
In 2019 , he attended 54 community events including open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through Hereford and Worcester Fire Service also supports training with other emergency services .
Edward said : “ Once when we were role-playing casualties on a general service exercise when we were asked to head to Hereford General Hospital straight away to pretend to be factory workers involved in a simulated chemical spill .
`` The staff at the hospital , except for the manager , were unaware that this was a training exercise so once we were sprayed with a fake chemical substance we entered the hospital reception and announced that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spill .
“ We were ordered out of the reception , asked to go to the other side of the car park where tents had been immediately erected .
`` We were sent to individual cubicles asked to strip off and be prepared to be washed from head to toe by the hospital staff .
`` It was only then the staff were told it was a training exercise , but not before I volunteered to be the first one to de-robe !
“ If you ’ ve ever thought about volunteering then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do it with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service .
`` You ’ ll meet great friends and learn life-saving skills that will set you up for any fire related incident and beyond.
” For more details on volunteering with the fire service and to find out how to apply , visit hwfire.org.uk/join-us/volunteers .

On National Volunteers' Week, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is seeking to recruit volunteers to promote its safety initiatives in local communities.
Edward Cheshire, who lives in Wolverley, joined the fire service after retiring from a successful career as a business manage rin 2014.
He had big plans for his retirement, including a six week tour of Australia and a Caribbean cruise, but Edward soon realised he had enough time on his hands to volunteer.
Edward's brother-in-law had been a full-time firefighter, serving with both West Midlands and Devon and Cornwall Fire Service, so when Edward saw an article in the newspaper about volunteering with Hereford and Worcester, he was inspired to pick up the phone and enquire.
Following an interview and induction, Edward soon found himself volunteering 15 hours a week.
Edward said: “Throughout my career working as a business manager in sales, I had delivered hundreds of presentations which my clients always responded to very positively. It was clear that this was a skill I could transfer to my volunteering work, and within my first year of volunteering I was delivering fire safety presentations to schools and the wider community.
"I love this part of the job, however other volunteers prefer to be involved in more practical training exercises - the opportunities are provided to get involved in whatever way you can.”
In 2016, Edward was awarded Volunteer of the Year, clocking up more than 300 hours of volunteering time that year.
In 2019, he attended 54 community events including open days and firefighters charity events.
Volunteering through Hereford and Worcester Fire Service also supports training with other emergency services.
Edward said: “Once when we were role-playing casualties on a general service exercise when we were asked to head to Hereford General Hospital straight away to pretend to be factory workers involved in a simulated chemical spill.
"The staff at the hospital, except for the manager, were unaware that this was a training exercise so once we were sprayed with a fake chemical substance we entered the hospital reception and announced that we’d been involved in a chemical spill.
“We were ordered out of the reception, asked to go to the other side of the car park where tents had been immediately erected.
"We were sent to individual cubicles asked to strip off and be prepared to be washed from head to toe by the hospital staff.
"It was only then the staff were told it was a training exercise, but not before I volunteered to be the first one to de-robe!
“If you’ve ever thought about volunteering then I have no hesitation in recommending you do it with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
"You’ll meet great friends and learn life-saving skills that will set you up for any fire related incident and beyond.”
For more details on volunteering with the fire service and to find out how to apply, visit hwfire.org.uk/join-us/volunteers.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-06-01--One new coronavirus death recorded in Worcestershire hospitals

ONE more death from coronavirus has been announced in Worcestershire hospitals .
The newly recorded death means there have now been 27 deaths in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust , compared to 255 in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trustn bringing the overall death toll in county hospitals to 281 .
Across England , a further 108 people who tested positive for the Coronavirus ( Covid-19 ) have died , bringing the total number of deaths in hospitals in England to 26,722 .
Patients were aged between 29 and 99 years old .
16 of the 108 patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had no known underlying health condition .
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced ( the deaths did not all happen on the same day ) .
They are accurate up to 5pm the previous day .
The newly recorded death means a total of 452 people have died in Worcestershire in all settings according to the Office of National Statistics .
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital .
The health and care NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including Worcester City Impatient Unit , Malvern Community Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital , Pershore Community Hospital , the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove , Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward .

The newly recorded death means there have now been 27 deaths in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, compared to 255 in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trustn bringing the overall death toll in county hospitals to 281.
Across England, a further 108 people who tested positive for the Coronavirus (Covid-19) have died, bringing the total number of deaths in hospitals in England to 26,722.
Patients were aged between 29 and 99 years old. 16 of the 108 patients (aged between 48 and 94) had no known underlying health condition.
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced (the deaths did not all happen on the same day). They are accurate up to 5pm the previous day.
The newly recorded death means a total of 452 people have died in Worcestershire in all settings according to the Office of National Statistics.
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
The health and care NHS trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards, including Worcester City Impatient Unit, Malvern Community Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital, Pershore Community Hospital, the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove, Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward.