kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-21--UK could have 50,000 new Covid-19 cases a day by mid-October - health chiefs warn

The UK could be facing about 50,000 new Covid-19 cases a day by mid-October , leading to 200 deaths a day a month later if the current rate of infection is not halted - the Government ’ s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance has warned .
Sir Patrick said the “ vast majority of the population remain susceptible ” to catching coronavirus and the current situation required swift action to bring the case numbers down .
In a televised press conference together with England ’ s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty on Monday morning ( September 21 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no doubt ” the UK was in a situation where the numbers were increasing among all age groups .
He said : “ At the moment , we think that the epidemic is doubling roughly every seven days.
” Prof Whitty said there was a need to “ break unnecessary links ” between households and there was a need to “ change course ” .
Could pubs across England be forced to close this weekend ?
Meanwhile , Matt Hancock did not rule out England ’ s pubs being closed this weekend as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of coronavirus .
The Health Secretary said on Monday that the Government had not yet taken the “ final decisions ” on what response was necessary , but said the changes would be announced in the “ very , very near future ” .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to address the nation on Tuesday amid mounting concern about a surge in the number of Covid-19 cases .
On ITV ’ s This Morning , Mr Hancock was asked whether landlords would be told to shut this weekend .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need to make in the very , very near future , ” he replied .
The Heath Secretary said his answer on pubs was “ not a no , and it ’ s not a yes ” , adding : “ We have been working on this all weekend , we haven ’ t taken the final decisions about what we need to do in response to the surge that we have seen in the last few weeks.
” He said he spoke to Mr Johnson on Monday morning , adding : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all are about the rise in the number of cases and we have to make a final decision about what ’ s the best response to that.
” When asked about Christmas , Mr Hancock said he wanted it to be “ as normal as possible ” and suggested that a vaccine may be widely available in early 2021 .
“ It depends how much we can control it now , ” he told ITV ’ s This Morning .
“ If this runs out of control now , then we ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future .
The more we can control it now by everybody doing that bit , including us – absolutely – but everybody together , then the easier it is going to be to have as normal a Christmas as possible.
” On the possibility of a vaccine , Mr Hancock said : “ For the mass rollout we ’ re talking about the first bit of next year , if all goes well .
“ Hopefully in the first few months – there ’ s still a chance of it coming on stream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then got to roll it out and the first people who will get it are the people who are most vulnerable – people in care homes , older people .
“ There ’ s a series of different vaccines , but we are talking about – essentially , for it to have an impact on how we live our lives – we ’ re talking about the start of next year .
”

Here's the latest.
What have health chiefs warned?
Sir Patrick said the “vast majority of the population remain susceptible” to catching coronavirus and the current situation required swift action to bring the case numbers down.
In a televised press conference together with England’s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty on Monday morning (September 21), Sir Patrick said there was “no doubt” the UK was in a situation where the numbers were increasing among all age groups.
He said: “At the moment, we think that the epidemic is doubling roughly every seven days.”
Prof Whitty said there was a need to “break unnecessary links” between households and there was a need to “change course”.
Could pubs across England be forced to close this weekend?
Meanwhile, Matt Hancock did not rule out England’s pubs being closed this weekend as ministers prepare extra measures to curb the spread of coronavirus.
The Health Secretary said on Monday that the Government had not yet taken the “final decisions” on what response was necessary, but said the changes would be announced in the “very, very near future”.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to address the nation on Tuesday amid mounting concern about a surge in the number of Covid-19 cases.
On ITV’s This Morning, Mr Hancock was asked whether landlords would be told to shut this weekend.
“We will be absolutely clear about the changes we need to make in the very, very near future,” he replied.
The Heath Secretary said his answer on pubs was “not a no, and it’s not a yes”, adding: “We have been working on this all weekend, we haven’t taken the final decisions about what we need to do in response to the surge that we have seen in the last few weeks.”
He said he spoke to Mr Johnson on Monday morning, adding: “He is as worried as we all are about the rise in the number of cases and we have to make a final decision about what’s the best response to that.”
When asked about Christmas, Mr Hancock said he wanted it to be “as normal as possible” and suggested that a vaccine may be widely available in early 2021.
“It depends how much we can control it now,” he told ITV’s This Morning.
“If this runs out of control now, then we’ll have to take heavier measures in the future. The more we can control it now by everybody doing that bit, including us – absolutely – but everybody together, then the easier it is going to be to have as normal a Christmas as possible.”
On the possibility of a vaccine, Mr Hancock said: “For the mass rollout we’re talking about the first bit of next year, if all goes well.
“Hopefully in the first few months – there’s still a chance of it coming on stream before Christmas, but we’ve then got to roll it out and the first people who will get it are the people who are most vulnerable – people in care homes, older people.
“There’s a series of different vaccines, but we are talking about – essentially, for it to have an impact on how we live our lives – we’re talking about the start of next year.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-21--People who don't self-isolate will be fined £10,000 under new law by Boris Johnson

People across England who refuse an order to self-isolate will be fined up to £10,000 , the Government has warned .
The move comes amid deepening concern at the sharp upsurge in coronavirus infections nationwide .
Here 's everything you need to know .
What is the new self-isolation law ?
In a significant toughening up of the regulations , ministers will impose a new legal duty on people to self-isolate if they test positive for the disease or are told to do so by NHS Test and Trace after coming into contact with someone with the virus .
Those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of earnings as a result of going into quarantine will be eligible for a one-off support payment of £500 to help them cope financially .
With new cases of the infection doubling every week , Boris Johnson said the measures were necessary to control the spread of the virus and to protect the most vulnerable from becoming infected .
However they are likely to alarm some Conservative MPs already concerned at the wide-ranging powers being taken by ministers to curb the disease with little or no debate in Parliament .
When will the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England ?
The new regulations will come into force in England on Monday , September 28 , although ministers are in discussion with the devolved administrations for Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland about extending them UK-wide .
It follows a warning by Professor Neil Ferguson , of Imperial College London – whose modelling led to the original nationwide lockdown , that the authorities needed to act “ sooner rather than later ” if they were to avoid a return to the infection rates of last March .
What has Boris Johnson said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acknowledged the long-feared second wave of the pandemic affecting countries such as France and Spain had reached Britain and that more cases of the disease were “ inevitable ” .
Announcing the new rules , Mr Johnson said : “ “ The best way we can fight this virus is by everyone following the rules and self-isolating if they ’ re at risk of passing on coronavirus .
“ And so nobody underestimates just how important this is , new regulations will mean you are legally obliged to do so if you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do so by NHS Test and Trace .
“ People who choose to ignore the rules will face significant fines .
We need to do all we can to control the spread of this virus , to prevent the most vulnerable people from becoming infected , and to protect the NHS and save lives.
” How much will the fines be for those who do n't self-isolate in England ?
Fines will initially start at £1,000 rising to £10,000 for repeat offenders and for “ the most egregious breaches ” including those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an employer who requires a staff member to come into work in violation of an order .
The penalties are in line with those for people who fail to quarantine for 14 days after returning to the UK from a country not on the list of low risk nations .
Officials said NHS Test and Trace would be in regular contact with individuals told to self-isolate and would report any suspicions that people were not complying to the police and local authorities .
Police will also check compliance in Covid-19 hotspots and among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as following up reports from members of the public of people who have tested positive but are not self-isolating .
Prosecutions could follow in “ high-profile and egregious ” cases of non-compliance .
As with other coronavirus rules , there will be specific exemptions for those who need to escape from illness or harm during their isolation , and for those who require care .
Officials said just under four million people on benefits in England would be eligible for the support payments if they lose income as a result of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The latest announcement comes just days after the “ rule of six ” – banning social gatherings of more than six people – came into force and will been seen as further evidence of the concern in Whitehall at the rate of spread of the disease .
On Friday , the Government announced tough new restrictions were being imposed in large parts of England ’ s North West , West Yorkshire and the Midlands .
It means by Tuesday , when the measures come into force , around 13.5 million people in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of additional coronavirus controls .
Prof Ferguson said the country was caught in a “ perfect storm ” following the easing of lockdown restrictions over the summer , and that swift action was needed to stop the virus spreading out of control .
“ Right now we are at about the levels of infection we were seeing in this country in late February , ” he told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme .
“ If we leave it another two to four weeks we will be back at levels we were seeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearly going to cause deaths because people will be hospitalised .
“ I think some additional measures are likely to be needed sooner rather than later .
”

The move comes amid deepening concern at the sharp upsurge in coronavirus infections nationwide.
Here's everything you need to know.
What is the new self-isolation law?
In a significant toughening up of the regulations, ministers will impose a new legal duty on people to self-isolate if they test positive for the disease or are told to do so by NHS Test and Trace after coming into contact with someone with the virus.
Those on lower incomes who face a loss of earnings as a result of going into quarantine will be eligible for a one-off support payment of £500 to help them cope financially.
With new cases of the infection doubling every week, Boris Johnson said the measures were necessary to control the spread of the virus and to protect the most vulnerable from becoming infected.
However they are likely to alarm some Conservative MPs already concerned at the wide-ranging powers being taken by ministers to curb the disease with little or no debate in Parliament.
When will the new self-isolation law come into force across England?
The new regulations will come into force in England on Monday, September 28, although ministers are in discussion with the devolved administrations for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland about extending them UK-wide.
It follows a warning by Professor Neil Ferguson, of Imperial College London – whose modelling led to the original nationwide lockdown, that the authorities needed to act “sooner rather than later” if they were to avoid a return to the infection rates of last March.
What has Boris Johnson said?
On Friday, the Prime Minister acknowledged the long-feared second wave of the pandemic affecting countries such as France and Spain had reached Britain and that more cases of the disease were “inevitable”.
Announcing the new rules, Mr Johnson said: ““The best way we can fight this virus is by everyone following the rules and self-isolating if they’re at risk of passing on coronavirus.
“And so nobody underestimates just how important this is, new regulations will mean you are legally obliged to do so if you have the virus or have been asked to do so by NHS Test and Trace.
“People who choose to ignore the rules will face significant fines. We need to do all we can to control the spread of this virus, to prevent the most vulnerable people from becoming infected, and to protect the NHS and save lives.”
How much will the fines be for those who don't self-isolate in England?
Fines will initially start at £1,000 rising to £10,000 for repeat offenders and for “the most egregious breaches” including those who stop other people from self-isolating, such an employer who requires a staff member to come into work in violation of an order.
The penalties are in line with those for people who fail to quarantine for 14 days after returning to the UK from a country not on the list of low risk nations.
Officials said NHS Test and Trace would be in regular contact with individuals told to self-isolate and would report any suspicions that people were not complying to the police and local authorities.
Police will also check compliance in Covid-19 hotspots and among groups considered to be “high-risk” as well as following up reports from members of the public of people who have tested positive but are not self-isolating.
Prosecutions could follow in “high-profile and egregious” cases of non-compliance.
As with other coronavirus rules, there will be specific exemptions for those who need to escape from illness or harm during their isolation, and for those who require care.
Officials said just under four million people on benefits in England would be eligible for the support payments if they lose income as a result of being unable to go into work.
The latest announcement comes just days after the “rule of six” – banning social gatherings of more than six people – came into force and will been seen as further evidence of the concern in Whitehall at the rate of spread of the disease.
On Friday, the Government announced tough new restrictions were being imposed in large parts of England’s North West, West Yorkshire and the Midlands.
It means by Tuesday, when the measures come into force, around 13.5 million people in the UK will be living under some form of additional coronavirus controls.
Prof Ferguson said the country was caught in a “perfect storm” following the easing of lockdown restrictions over the summer, and that swift action was needed to stop the virus spreading out of control.
“Right now we are at about the levels of infection we were seeing in this country in late February,” he told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme.
“If we leave it another two to four weeks we will be back at levels we were seeing more like mid-March. That’s clearly going to cause deaths because people will be hospitalised.
“I think some additional measures are likely to be needed sooner rather than later.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-21--Tesco: How to get FREE food from Olio app that helps to cut food waste

Tesco have launched an innovative scheme to stop more surplus food from going to waste and re-distribute it amongst members of the local community .
The supermarket chain has partnered with Olio , a food sharing app and social enterprise , to help reduce food waste in stores across the UK in a move which should help feed more people in crisis in the local community .
The new partnership builds on Tesco ’ s existing food surplus donations programme , including its Community Food Connection scheme with FareShare , which already sees it donate 2 million meals every month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Olio follows a successful six month trial , which was held earlier this year , at 250 Tesco stores which had the most food surplus and which saw a high rate of pick up .
• Nearly 195,000 portions of food being saved .
• The equivalent of 93,000 meals being saved .
How does the Olio app work ?
Anyone downloading the app will be able to see food items nearing their expiry date available to be collected in their area for free , via non-contact pick-up .
The scheme works @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8,000+ local volunteer ‘ Food Waste Heroes ’ who visit Tesco stores to collect surplus food nearing its sell-by date .
The food is taken back to their homes , with the items immediately uploaded onto the Olio app , ready to be re-distributed free to those living nearby as well as to community groups .
Olio app users can then pick items up , from an agreed , contact-free collection point and because of social-distancing measures needed right now food items can be left in a front garden or wall outside someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said ?
Tesco Head of Communities , Claire De Silva said : “ We are very proud of our food waste work and our Community Food Connection scheme with FareShare helps thousands of charities every week .
“ Right now we want to make sure that any surplus food is being managed and people who need it have access to it .
“ The results of our initial trial were very positive and have allowed us to further roll out the partnership in our commitment to make sure no good food goes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ‘ Food Waste Heroes ’ are allowed to keep 10 per cent of what they collect from stores if they would like .
OLIO is registered with the Food Standards Agency which ensures that all food collected is safe for human consumption .
The three-month trial which took place from December till the end of February resulted in 36 tonnes of food redistributed .
What have Olio said ?
Olio Co-founder , Tessa Clarke said : “ Our partnership with Tesco means that more people than ever before will be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ They ’ ll also be joining our community of neighbours who not only support one another , but also believe that every little counts in the fight against food waste.
” Tackling food waste has been a major part of Tesco ’ s sustainability strategy since 2009 , when it made a commitment to stop sending food products to landfill .
In 2016 , Tesco launched the UK ’ s biggest food redistribution scheme , Community Food Connection ( CFC ) , through which surplus food from Tesco stores is donated daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Olio will collect where charities are unable to or we don ’ t have charities available .
To date , about 100 million meals have been donated to more than 7,000 charity and community groups from Tesco stores and distribution centres .
The move is part of the retailer ’ s pledge that no food safe for human consumption will go to waste .

The supermarket chain has partnered with Olio, a food sharing app and social enterprise, to help reduce food waste in stores across the UK in a move which should help feed more people in crisis in the local community.
The new partnership builds on Tesco’s existing food surplus donations programme, including its Community Food Connection scheme with FareShare, which already sees it donate 2 million meals every month to food charities nationwide.
The partnership with Olio follows a successful six month trial, which was held earlier this year, at 250 Tesco stores which had the most food surplus and which saw a high rate of pick up.
The trial resulted in:
Nearly 195,000 portions of food being saved.
Nearly 4,200 people being fed.
The equivalent of 93,000 meals being saved.
How does the Olio app work?
Anyone downloading the app will be able to see food items nearing their expiry date available to be collected in their area for free, via non-contact pick-up.
The scheme works with the help of Olio’s 8,000+ local volunteer ‘Food Waste Heroes’ who visit Tesco stores to collect surplus food nearing its sell-by date.
The food is taken back to their homes, with the items immediately uploaded onto the Olio app, ready to be re-distributed free to those living nearby as well as to community groups.
Olio app users can then pick items up, from an agreed, contact-free collection point and because of social-distancing measures needed right now food items can be left in a front garden or wall outside someone’s house.
What have Tesco said?
Tesco Head of Communities, Claire De Silva said: “We are very proud of our food waste work and our Community Food Connection scheme with FareShare helps thousands of charities every week.
“Right now we want to make sure that any surplus food is being managed and people who need it have access to it.
“The results of our initial trial were very positive and have allowed us to further roll out the partnership in our commitment to make sure no good food goes to waste.”
In return for their efforts, ‘Food Waste Heroes’ are allowed to keep 10 per cent of what they collect from stores if they would like. OLIO is registered with the Food Standards Agency which ensures that all food collected is safe for human consumption.
The three-month trial which took place from December till the end of February resulted in 36 tonnes of food redistributed.
What have Olio said?
Olio Co-founder, Tessa Clarke said: “Our partnership with Tesco means that more people than ever before will be able to benefit from access to surplus food.
“They’ll also be joining our community of neighbours who not only support one another, but also believe that every little counts in the fight against food waste.”
Tackling food waste has been a major part of Tesco’s sustainability strategy since 2009, when it made a commitment to stop sending food products to landfill.
In 2016, Tesco launched the UK’s biggest food redistribution scheme, Community Food Connection (CFC), through which surplus food from Tesco stores is donated daily to local charities and community groups.
Olio will collect where charities are unable to or we don’t have charities available.
To date, about 100 million meals have been donated to more than 7,000 charity and community groups from Tesco stores and distribution centres. The move is part of the retailer’s pledge that no food safe for human consumption will go to waste.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-21--TikTok Pro: Police issue major warning over fake app that contains spyware

A major warning has been issued by police over a fake app posing as social media platform TikTok .
Here 's everything you need to know .
What is the fake app ?
The fake app , called 'TikTok Pro ' , has been set up by scammers and distributed via a third party store .
The app has been set up to mimic the official version , simply named 'TikTok ' .
In the last 18 months , the authentic version of the app has quickly become one of the top most downloaded apps - with 41 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 24 .
Police have said the 'TikTok Pro ' app is fully operational spyware , and warned anyone across the UK who has downloaded the application to delete it immediately .
What have police said ?
In a statement , Durham Police said : `` A fully functional spyware is being distributed as 'TikTok Pro ' on third-party app stores , alongside a slightly more benign version of the scam which appears to be simple adware .
`` It should be noted that while it is possible to get a 'Pro ' account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pro ' account .
`` This is a piece of opportunism from the threat actors behind this campaign . ''
How to report fraud and cyber crime Reports of fraud or cybercrime can be made to Action Fraud at any time of the day or night using an online reporting tool .
The tool uses simple questions to identify what has happened , with Action Fraud advisors available 24-hours a day to help and give advice to anyone who needs it .
Reports can also be made to Action Fraud by calling 0300 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8am until 8pm .
Those calling from abroad should call +44 300 123 2040 .
If you or someone else is in immediate danger or risk of harm , dial 999 now .

Here's everything you need to know.
What is the fake app?
The fake app, called 'TikTok Pro', has been set up by scammers and distributed via a third party store.
The app has been set up to mimic the official version, simply named 'TikTok'.
In the last 18 months, the authentic version of the app has quickly become one of the top most downloaded apps - with 41 per cent of its users under the age of 24.
Police have said the 'TikTok Pro' app is fully operational spyware, and warned anyone across the UK who has downloaded the application to delete it immediately.
What have police said?
In a statement, Durham Police said: "A fully functional spyware is being distributed as 'TikTok Pro' on third-party app stores, alongside a slightly more benign version of the scam which appears to be simple adware.
"It should be noted that while it is possible to get a 'Pro' account for TikTok, there is no 'TikTok Pro' account.
"This is a piece of opportunism from the threat actors behind this campaign."
How to report fraud and cyber crime
Reports of fraud or cybercrime can be made to Action Fraud at any time of the day or night using an online reporting tool.
The tool uses simple questions to identify what has happened, with Action Fraud advisors available 24-hours a day to help and give advice to anyone who needs it.
Reports can also be made to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 between Monday and Friday from 8am until 8pm. Those calling from abroad should call +44 300 123 2040.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger or risk of harm, dial 999 now.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-21--Covid-19 rules: How to stay safe in hairdressers and beauty salons

You can finally stop getting a DIY lockdown haircut from a family member and head back to the barbers .
However , there are few things you may need to be aware of before booking your much-needed pamper session at the local salon .
Here are some of latest Covid-19 guidelines for hairdressers , barbers and beauty salons .
Hairdressers , barbers beauty salons , nail bars , tattoo and massage studios , physical therapy businesses and spas are allowed to open across the country , although owners will have to introduce safety measures to ensure their businesses are Covid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a mask ?
Face coverings are mandatory for customers visiting nail , beauty , hair salons and barbers ; massage centres ; tattoo and piercing parlours .
Face coverings should not be removed unless essential for a particular treatment – for example , for a treatment on the face area covered by the mask .
Hairdressers and barbers will be required to wear a full-face plastic visor to reduce the risk of infection .
What are some of the measures in place to help keep me safe ?
Salons will be using screens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to separate practitioners from clients , such as in nail salons .
There are appointment-only booking systems in place to minimise the number of people in the salon at any one time .
The time it takes to complete the haircut or treatment will be kept to a minimum .
There will be increased hand washing and surface cleaning , as well regular cleaning of equipment or using disposable equipment where possible .
Salons will also look to avoid skin to skin contact and wearing gloves where it is not crucial to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bars and tanning salons .
No food or drink , other than water , will be allowed to be consumed by customers at salons .

However, there are few things you may need to be aware of before booking your much-needed pamper session at the local salon.
Here are some of latest Covid-19 guidelines for hairdressers, barbers and beauty salons.
Are salons open now?
Hairdressers, barbers beauty salons, nail bars, tattoo and massage studios, physical therapy businesses and spas are allowed to open across the country, although owners will have to introduce safety measures to ensure their businesses are Covid secure.
Will I have to wear a mask?
Face coverings are mandatory for customers visiting nail, beauty, hair salons and barbers; massage centres; tattoo and piercing parlours.
Face coverings should not be removed unless essential for a particular treatment – for example, for a treatment on the face area covered by the mask.
Hairdressers and barbers will be required to wear a full-face plastic visor to reduce the risk of infection.
What are some of the measures in place to help keep me safe?
Salons will be using screens to separate clients from each other, and to separate practitioners from clients, such as in nail salons.
There are appointment-only booking systems in place to minimise the number of people in the salon at any one time. The time it takes to complete the haircut or treatment will be kept to a minimum.
There will be increased hand washing and surface cleaning, as well regular cleaning of equipment or using disposable equipment where possible.
Salons will also look to avoid skin to skin contact and wearing gloves where it is not crucial to the service, such as in nail bars and tanning salons.
No food or drink, other than water, will be allowed to be consumed by customers at salons.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-20--6 Halloween events near Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley

HALLOWEEN parties could be a no-go this year if stricter social distancing measures remain in place , but there are still a host of spooky events due to go ahead in Wyre Forest .
It 's impossible to say whether Covid-19 rules will be eased - or perhaps even toughed - by the end of October , but it certainly wo n't be Halloween as we know it .
But from ghost tours to fancy dress contests and even a witch and wizard school , there are still a range of events still scheduled to take place in and around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've put together a round-up of the most frighteningly fun events for children and grown-ups which are set to go ahead across the district .
People are advised to check with the organiser before booking as plans may change in response to coronavirus guidelines .
Witley Court 's ghost tours are not for the faint-hearted Do you dare explore Witley Court in the dark this Halloween ?
One for the grown-ups - Witley Court and Gardens , not far from Stourport , is inviting spook-seekers to join its storytellers on a bone-chilling journey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ghosts , supernatural sightings and horrors from history , this is not a night for the faint-hearted .
These tours are suitable for those aged 16 plus .
Don ’ t forget to bring a torch as things are going to get dark !
Tours will be held between October 28 and October 31 at 7pm and 8.30pm .
Tickets must be booked in advance at a cost of £10 for English Heritage members , or £15 for non-members .
Witley Court will also be hosting a ghoulishly good day out for youngsters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Families are invited to follow the trail to solve creepy clues and listen to spooky stories .
There will also be a fancy dress competition every day - just come in your scariest outfits to be in with a chance of winning !
A series of spooky woodland walks will be held at the mansion between October 29 and October 31 , at times between 5.30pm and 7.30pm .
These child-friendly walks will take families on a trip through the shadows of the Witley Court Grounds .
With well-told tales full of spooky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Halloween walk is sure to get you into the spirit of the season .
Click here for more information or to book .
Budding witches and wizards are invited to family-fun lessons in potion mixing and making your own wizard school badge at Hartlebury Castle 's Witch and Wizard School .
Visitors will then follow a Spell Hunt around the castle , and can carve a pumpkin to take home to continue the Halloween celebrations .
Additional charges of £2 per child apply on top of the usual whole site admission .
Events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 27 and 4pm on October 30 .
For more information , click here .
From October 24 to November 1 , Bodenham Arboretum will be hosting its annual Pumpkin Walk .
The dog-friendly event will be a little different this year due to social distancing restrictions , however the arboretum has promised the same carved pumpkins and spooky staged scenes .
Three time slots are available - 10am to 12pm , 12pm to 2pm and 2pm to 4pm .
Tickets must be booked in advance at a cost of £6.50 for adults and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Click here for more information and to book tickets .
A resident family of witches and wizards at last year 's West Midland Safari Park Spooky Spectacular West Midland Safari Park will once again be brimming with Halloween decorations including illuminated , themed scarecrows and hundreds of pumpkins for its Spooky Spectacular event from October 10 until November 1 .
Visitors are invited to take part in the brand new Scratchcard Trail to see if you can solve the Mystery of the Pumpkin Thief .
Those who complete the trail will earn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more information .
Take your little monsters along to an outdoor show in the Green Theatre at Bewdley Museum this Halloween .
Two performances will be held on October 31 at 4.45pm and 6.15pm , lasting 45 minutes .
The outdoor shows will be followed by fancy dress and bring-your-own carved pumpkin contests .
Visitors are advised to bring along picnic chairs and be prepared for all weather .
People must sit in their family bubbles in a clearly marked out area to adhere to social distancing .
Click here for more information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Horrors at The Civic , Stourport Nosferatu ( 1922 ) is arguably the film that gave birth to the horror genre .
Notable as the first cinematic interpretation of Bram Stoker ’ s Dracula , its combination of expressionistic acting and unforgettable images render it just as powerful and unsettling today as when it first thrilled cinema goers nearly 100 years ago .
Chris Green ’ s new score was commissioned by English Heritage for a live outdoor screening of the film at Dracula ’ s spiritual home of Whitby Abbey .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ electronic and acoustic instruments performed by the composer and combined with FW Murnau ’ s iconic images makes for a genuinely remarkable and unique cinematic experience .
This event at The Civic , Stourport , on October 25 at 7.30pm is a showing of the classic film with a live performance by Chris Green of his new score .
Tickets cost £10 .
Click here for more information .

It's impossible to say whether Covid-19 rules will be eased - or perhaps even toughed - by the end of October, but it certainly won't be Halloween as we know it.
But from ghost tours to fancy dress contests and even a witch and wizard school, there are still a range of events still scheduled to take place in and around Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport.
We've put together a round-up of the most frighteningly fun events for children and grown-ups which are set to go ahead across the district.
People are advised to check with the organiser before booking as plans may change in response to coronavirus guidelines.
Witley Court's ghost tours are not for the faint-hearted
Ghost tours and spooky woodland walks at Witley Court
Do you dare explore Witley Court in the dark this Halloween?
One for the grown-ups - Witley Court and Gardens, not far from Stourport, is inviting spook-seekers to join its storytellers on a bone-chilling journey through the past.
With tales of ghosts, supernatural sightings and horrors from history, this is not a night for the faint-hearted.
These tours are suitable for those aged 16 plus. Don’t forget to bring a torch as things are going to get dark!
Tours will be held between October 28 and October 31 at 7pm and 8.30pm.
Tickets must be booked in advance at a cost of £10 for English Heritage members, or £15 for non-members.
Witley Court will also be hosting a ghoulishly good day out for youngsters between October 24 and November 1.
Families are invited to follow the trail to solve creepy clues and listen to spooky stories.
There will also be a fancy dress competition every day - just come in your scariest outfits to be in with a chance of winning!
A series of spooky woodland walks will be held at the mansion between October 29 and October 31, at times between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.
These child-friendly walks will take families on a trip through the shadows of the Witley Court Grounds.
With well-told tales full of spooky, strange and silly goings-on, this Halloween walk is sure to get you into the spirit of the season.
Click here for more information or to book.
Witch and Wizard School at Hartlebury Castle
Budding witches and wizards are invited to family-fun lessons in potion mixing and making your own wizard school badge at Hartlebury Castle's Witch and Wizard School.
Visitors will then follow a Spell Hunt around the castle, and can carve a pumpkin to take home to continue the Halloween celebrations.
Additional charges of £2 per child apply on top of the usual whole site admission.
Events will be held between 11am on October 27 and 4pm on October 30.
For more information, click here.
Pumpkin Walk at Bodenham Arboretum
From October 24 to November 1, Bodenham Arboretum will be hosting its annual Pumpkin Walk.
The dog-friendly event will be a little different this year due to social distancing restrictions, however the arboretum has promised the same carved pumpkins and spooky staged scenes.
Three time slots are available - 10am to 12pm, 12pm to 2pm and 2pm to 4pm. Tickets must be booked in advance at a cost of £6.50 for adults and £3.50 for children. Under-fives go free.
Click here for more information and to book tickets.
A resident family of witches and wizards at last year's West Midland Safari Park Spooky Spectacular
Spooky Spectacular at West Midland Safari Park
West Midland Safari Park will once again be brimming with Halloween decorations including illuminated, themed scarecrows and hundreds of pumpkins for its Spooky Spectacular event from October 10 until November 1.
Visitors are invited to take part in the brand new Scratchcard Trail to see if you can solve the Mystery of the Pumpkin Thief. Those who complete the trail will earn a sweet treat!
Click here for more information.
Dippy's Outdoor Halloween Extravaganza at Bewdley Museum
Take your little monsters along to an outdoor show in the Green Theatre at Bewdley Museum this Halloween.
Two performances will be held on October 31 at 4.45pm and 6.15pm, lasting 45 minutes.
The outdoor shows will be followed by fancy dress and bring-your-own carved pumpkin contests.
Visitors are advised to bring along picnic chairs and be prepared for all weather. People must sit in their family bubbles in a clearly marked out area to adhere to social distancing.
Click here for more information and tickets.
Nosferatu – A Symphony of Horrors at The Civic, Stourport
Nosferatu (1922) is arguably the film that gave birth to the horror genre.
Notable as the first cinematic interpretation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, its combination of expressionistic acting and unforgettable images render it just as powerful and unsettling today as when it first thrilled cinema goers nearly 100 years ago.
Chris Green’s new score was commissioned by English Heritage for a live outdoor screening of the film at Dracula’s spiritual home of Whitby Abbey.
The music is a haunting blend of electronic and acoustic instruments performed by the composer and combined with FW Murnau’s iconic images makes for a genuinely remarkable and unique cinematic experience.
This event at The Civic, Stourport, on October 25 at 7.30pm is a showing of the classic film with a live performance by Chris Green of his new score.
Tickets cost £10. Click here for more information.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-20--PS5: How much does it cost - and when will it go on sale in the UK?

Sony have confirmed the price of their next generation games console , the PS5 , including when it will be released across the UK .
The 2020 console promises to be a machine of 'unprecedented ' power , capable of supporting up to 8k vision and equipped with Graphics Processing Units ( GPU ) usually reserved for Hollywood movies .
In an effort to see off competition from the Xbox Series S and Series X the console is also promising a new range of exclusive titles including Gran Turismo 7 , Horizon Forbidden West and Marvel 's Spider-Man : Miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular and it was feared that getting your hands on a pre-sale copy would be no easy feat – and indeed some retailers have already sold out pre-sale copies – we 've put together everything you need to know .
How much will it cost ?
The tech giant confirmed pricing of the new console which will come in two versions .
A PS5 Digital Edition , which is without a disc drive , will retail at £359 , while the main machine will cost £449 .
When will it be released ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for its next-generation PlayStation , marking the start of a 2020 console war with Microsoft ’ s new Xbox .
The PS5 will go on sale from November 12 in the US , Japan , Canada , Mexico , Australia , New Zealand and South Korea , followed by the rest of the world a week later .
These are the retailers who are taking pre-orders , and how much they cost : What games will the PS5 have ?
On September 16 , Sony showcased a number of new games , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Legacy , an open world role player game set in the magical school before the titular wizard ’ s time in the 1800s .
Glimpses of familiar franchises including Final Fantasy XVI and Call Of Duty Black Ops Cold War were shown during the live-streamed event , alongside extended footage of previously announced games such as Spider-Man : Miles Morales and Resident Evil Village .
Sequels to big PS4 games like Spider-Man : Miles Morales ( which appears to be launching alongside the new console later this year ) and Horizon Forbidden West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stalwarts will be coming to the console , such as racing sim Gran Turismo 7 , colourful third-person action game Ratchet & Clank : Rift Apart , and LittleBigPlanet spin-off platformer , Sackboy : A Big Adventure .
The PS5 games announced at the June presentation :

The 2020 console promises to be a machine of 'unprecedented' power, capable of supporting up to 8k vision and equipped with Graphics Processing Units (GPU) usually reserved for Hollywood movies.
In an effort to see off competition from the Xbox Series S and Series X the console is also promising a new range of exclusive titles including Gran Turismo 7, Horizon Forbidden West and Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales.
Unsurprisingly the console is enormously popular and it was feared that getting your hands on a pre-sale copy would be no easy feat – and indeed some retailers have already sold out pre-sale copies – we've put together everything you need to know.
How much will it cost?
The tech giant confirmed pricing of the new console which will come in two versions.
A PS5 Digital Edition, which is without a disc drive, will retail at £359, while the main machine will cost £449.
When will it be released?
Sony has revealed a November release date for its next-generation PlayStation, marking the start of a 2020 console war with Microsoft’s new Xbox.
The PS5 will go on sale from November 12 in the US, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and South Korea, followed by the rest of the world a week later.
These are the retailers who are taking pre-orders, and how much they cost:
Game
Price: £449
Amazon
Price: £449
Currys
Price: £449
Argos
Price: £449
Very
Price: £449
Smyths
Price: £449
What games will the PS5 have?
On September 16, Sony showcased a number of new games, including a new Harry Potter-themed game called Hogwarts Legacy, an open world role player game set in the magical school before the titular wizard’s time in the 1800s.
Glimpses of familiar franchises including Final Fantasy XVI and Call Of Duty Black Ops Cold War were shown during the live-streamed event, alongside extended footage of previously announced games such as Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Resident Evil Village.
Sequels to big PS4 games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales (which appears to be launching alongside the new console later this year) and Horizon Forbidden West have also been announced.
Other PlayStation stalwarts will be coming to the console, such as racing sim Gran Turismo 7, colourful third-person action game Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and LittleBigPlanet spin-off platformer, Sackboy: A Big Adventure.
The PS5 games announced at the June presentation:


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Map shows where new coronavirus cases are in Kidderminster

THREE areas in Kidderminster have seen three or more new coronavirus cases recorded in the last week .
The latest @ @ @ @ @ England shows which areas in Worcestershire have recorded three new cases or more between September @ @ @ @ @ the latest data available .
The figures are split into several `` middle super output @ @ @ @ @ are slightly larger than postcode areas with an average population of around 7,200 people .
@ @ @ @ @ cases are not highlighted by Public Health England in its figures .
A total of @ @ @ @ @ recorded in Worcestershire , according to Public Health England figures .
Of those cases , @ @ @ @ @ Worcester , 292 in Malvern Hills , 534 in Wychavon , 650 in Bromsgrove , @ @ @ @ @ 472 in Redditch .
Here are the areas by local authority area where three or @ @ @ @ @ recorded in the last week : No areas recorded three or more cases during the @ @ @ @ @ or more cases during the period

The latest data published by Public Health England shows which areas in Worcestershire have recorded three new cases or more between September 11 and September 17 – the latest data available.
The figures are split into several "middle super output areas" – zones that are slightly larger than postcode areas with an average population of around 7,200 people.
Areas with fewer than two cases are not highlighted by Public Health England in its figures.
A total of 2,926 confirmed cases have been recorded in Worcestershire since the outbreak began, according to Public Health England figures.
Of those cases, 489 have been recorded in Worcester, 292 in Malvern Hills, 534 in Wychavon, 650 in Bromsgrove, 489 in Wyre Forest and 472 in Redditch.
Here are the areas by local authority area where three or more positive cases have been recorded in the last week:
WYRE FOREST
Franche – 5
Habberley - 3
Foley Park – 3
WORCESTER
King George's Field - 3
Warndon East - 3
Henwick - 3
MALVERN HILLS
Broadheath, Sinton and Alfrick – 4
REDDITCH
Batchley and Brockhill – 3
WYCHAVON
No areas recorded three or more cases during the period
BROMSGROVE
No areas recorded three or more cases during the period


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Dash cam appeal for man missing from farm near Stourport

POLICE have renewed their appeal for a missing man last seen leaving work on a farm in Great Witley , near Stourport .
Pavel Zukowski has not been seen since Wednesday , September 16 , when he left work at a farm in Great Witley shortly after 7am .
It is then believed the 29-year-old then walked along the A443 towards Worcester , where he lives , but has not been heard from in the six days since .
Officers are now appealing to members of the public who may have driven along the A443 at that time to review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for West Mercia Police said : `` We are renewing our appeal for missing man Pavel Zukowski .
`` He was last seen on Wednesday , September 16 after leaving work at a farm in Great Witley shortly after 7am .
It is then believed he walked along the A443 towards his home address in Worcester .
`` He is described as a white man , of a slim build and around 5ft 7 tall .
`` It is not known how far he may have travelled or how long this may have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to anyone who may have driven along the A443 to review their dash cam footage and let us know if they have anything to help us with our investigation . ''
Anyone with information on Pavel 's whereabouts or with dash cam footage of him on the A443 is urged to call police on 101 .

Pavel Zukowski has not been seen since Wednesday, September 16, when he left work at a farm in Great Witley shortly after 7am.
It is then believed the 29-year-old then walked along the A443 towards Worcester, where he lives, but has not been heard from in the six days since.
Officers are now appealing to members of the public who may have driven along the A443 at that time to review their dash cam footage.
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "We are renewing our appeal for missing man Pavel Zukowski.
The 29-year old-is missing from Great Witley, Worcestershire.
"He was last seen on Wednesday, September 16 after leaving work at a farm in Great Witley shortly after 7am. It is then believed he walked along the A443 towards his home address in Worcester.
"He is described as a white man, of a slim build and around 5ft 7 tall.
"It is not known how far he may have travelled or how long this may have taken him, so we are appealing to anyone who may have driven along the A443 to review their dash cam footage and let us know if they have anything to help us with our investigation."
Anyone with information on Pavel's whereabouts or with dash cam footage of him on the A443 is urged to call police on 101.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Worcestershire music teacher in new Great British Bake Off 2020

A MUSIC teacher from Worcestershire is set to take part in tonight 's first episode of the new series of The Great British Bake Off .
Worcester Sixth Form College music teacher Rowan Williams , who describes his baking style as “ ostentatious ” but tasteful hopes to rise to the occasion and compete in the baking competition .
Rowan , aged 55 , will appear on the popular baking competition when it hits screens on Tuesday , September 22 at 8pm .
According to Channel 4 ’ s website , Rowan is `` entirely self-taught '' and calls his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - he hopes - `` tasteful '' .
The website goes on to say : `` French pâtissérie is his absolute passion – he loves the subtlety of flavour , and the style and sophistication of French baking , and he is drawn to fine , complex , layered cakes .
“ His love of the Georgian era encourages him to reinvent 18th-century recipes whenever he can .
“ He enjoys decorating his bakes with flowers , preferably edible ones , using what is in bloom in his garden .
“ A fitness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mornings and is a keen cyclist and occasional horse-rider .
“ He lives in Worcestershire with his partner , who shares his passion for music , the arts and theatre , and he can often be found in the British Library researching all things 1700s.
” The popular show had been scheduled to go into production back in April , but kicked off in July once lockdown restrictions eased .
While it ’ s the show ’ s 11th season , the upcoming series took place at a private location in Essex after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Berkshire , with all cast and crew undergoing regular Covid-19 testing in an isolation bubble .
This year , under exceptional circumstances , the 12 new bakers entered a bubble for seven weeks in order to make the competition happen .
The contestants set to join Rowan this series include a panto producer , an armoured guard , an accountant , a diagnostic radiographer , a bronze resin sculptor and a pharmacy dispenser .
The iconic tent remains the same , but there are 30 brand new challenges set by Judges Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fielding and Matt Lucas kick off the series with Cake Week .
First , in the signature , the bakers get the opportunity to put their twist on the classic Battenberg .

Worcester Sixth Form College music teacher Rowan Williams, who describes his baking style as “ostentatious” but tasteful hopes to rise to the occasion and compete in the baking competition.
Rowan, aged 55, will appear on the popular baking competition when it hits screens on Tuesday, September 22 at 8pm.
According to Channel 4’s website, Rowan is "entirely self-taught" and calls his baking style "ostentatious" but also - he hopes - "tasteful".
The website goes on to say: "French pâtissérie is his absolute passion – he loves the subtlety of flavour, and the style and sophistication of French baking, and he is drawn to fine, complex, layered cakes.
“His love of the Georgian era encourages him to reinvent 18th-century recipes whenever he can.
“He enjoys decorating his bakes with flowers, preferably edible ones, using what is in bloom in his garden.
“A fitness enthusiast, Rowan swims a mile most mornings and is a keen cyclist and occasional horse-rider.
“He lives in Worcestershire with his partner, who shares his passion for music, the arts and theatre, and he can often be found in the British Library researching all things 1700s.”
The popular show had been scheduled to go into production back in April, but kicked off in July once lockdown restrictions eased.
While it’s the show’s 11th season, the upcoming series took place at a private location in Essex after five years of filming at Welford Park in Berkshire, with all cast and crew undergoing regular Covid-19 testing in an isolation bubble.
This year, under exceptional circumstances, the 12 new bakers entered a bubble for seven weeks in order to make the competition happen.
The contestants set to join Rowan this series include a panto producer, an armoured guard, an accountant, a diagnostic radiographer, a bronze resin sculptor and a pharmacy dispenser.
The iconic tent remains the same, but there are 30 brand new challenges set by Judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith.
Hosts Noel Fielding and Matt Lucas kick off the series with Cake Week. First, in the signature, the bakers get the opportunity to put their twist on the classic Battenberg.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Cornavirus restrictions including pub curfew to be announced today

THE govenment will announce new restrictions for England today after coronavirus infection rates continue to climb .
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove said the government was taking “ reluctant steps ” with the new coronavirus measures , but added that they are “ absolutely necessary ” .
“ There will be more details that the Prime Minister will spell out , and again , one of the points that he ’ ll make is that no one wants to do these things , no one wants to take these steps , ” he told Sky News .
“ They are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but they are absolutely necessary .
“ Because as we were reminded yesterday , and as you ’ ve been reporting , the rate of infection is increasing , the number of people going to hospital is increasing , and therefore we need to act.
” Measures look certain to include ordering pubs and restaurants to close at 10am and restrictions on social gatherings including putting plans to allow spectators at sport events on hold .
When asked about evidence around the 10pm hospitality curfew , Mr Gove told BBC Breakfast : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venues stay open , the greater degree of social mixing that takes place .
“ So , placing a restriction like this is something that we ’ ve already done in parts of the country where the virus has been spreading particularly fast.
” He added : “ I think it will make a difference , but I think that there are other steps that require to be taken as well , and the Prime Minister will be saying more to the House of Commons.
” Mr Gove said people should now work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts to “ restrain ” social mixing as much as possible .
“ If people can work from home , they should , ” he told BBC Breakfast .
“ But I stress that it ’ s very important that those people whose jobs require them to be in a specific workplace do so.
” He added that it was not a case of “ revisiting the days at the beginning of our response to this virus ” as “ workplaces are safer ” , adding : “ But one of the risks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social mixing overall contributes to the spread of the virus .
“ So as much as we can restrain that as possible at this stage , the better for all of us and for public health .
”

Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove said the government was taking “reluctant steps” with the new coronavirus measures, but added that they are “absolutely necessary”.
“There will be more details that the Prime Minister will spell out, and again, one of the points that he’ll make is that no one wants to do these things, no one wants to take these steps,” he told Sky News.
“They are reluctant steps that we’re taking, but they are absolutely necessary.
“Because as we were reminded yesterday, and as you’ve been reporting, the rate of infection is increasing, the number of people going to hospital is increasing, and therefore we need to act.”
Measures look certain to include ordering pubs and restaurants to close at 10am and restrictions on social gatherings including putting plans to allow spectators at sport events on hold.
When asked about evidence around the 10pm hospitality curfew, Mr Gove told BBC Breakfast: “There is evidence that the longer venues stay open, the greater degree of social mixing that takes place.
“So, placing a restriction like this is something that we’ve already done in parts of the country where the virus has been spreading particularly fast.”
He added: “I think it will make a difference, but I think that there are other steps that require to be taken as well, and the Prime Minister will be saying more to the House of Commons.”
Mr Gove said people should now work from home if they can, in efforts to “restrain” social mixing as much as possible.
“If people can work from home, they should,” he told BBC Breakfast.
“But I stress that it’s very important that those people whose jobs require them to be in a specific workplace do so.”
He added that it was not a case of “revisiting the days at the beginning of our response to this virus” as “workplaces are safer”, adding: “But one of the risks that we have to face is that social mixing overall contributes to the spread of the virus.
“So as much as we can restrain that as possible at this stage, the better for all of us and for public health.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Fake penalty charge scam: What to do if you get an email

An urgent warning has been issued after police were flooded with more than a thousand reports within the space of 24 hours about fake penalty emails .
Here 's what you need to know about them - and how to stay safe online .
What is the latest scam ?
Action Fraud UK issued the alert after thousands got in touch with the organisation earlier this month .
The fake penalty email scam contains links in the emails which lead to websites that are designed to steal your personal and financial details .
What have Action Fraud said ?
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` [ We ] have received more than 1,400 reports about fake emails purporting to be from HM Courts and Tribunals Service .
`` The emails state that the recipient has been issued with a penalty charge for 'the use of a vehicle on a road in the charging area which a charging scheme applies without payment of the appropriate charge ' .
`` The links provided in the emails leak to genuine-looking phishing websites that are designed to steal personal and financial information . ''
Members of the public have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any other official organisation , wo n't ask to share personal information over email of text .
Those who need to check if it is a genuine message should call them directly .
What should people do if they recieve a fake email ?
Those who receive one should report it to : Report @ phishing.gov.uk .

Here's what you need to know about them - and how to stay safe online.
What is the latest scam?
Action Fraud UK issued the alert after thousands got in touch with the organisation earlier this month.
The fake penalty email scam contains links in the emails which lead to websites that are designed to steal your personal and financial details.
What have Action Fraud said?
In a statement on Facebook, Action Fraud said: "[We] have received more than 1,400 reports about fake emails purporting to be from HM Courts and Tribunals Service.
"The emails state that the recipient has been issued with a penalty charge for 'the use of a vehicle on a road in the charging area which a charging scheme applies without payment of the appropriate charge'.
"The links provided in the emails leak to genuine-looking phishing websites that are designed to steal personal and financial information."
Members of the public have been reminded that their bank, or any other official organisation, won't ask to share personal information over email of text.
Those who need to check if it is a genuine message should call them directly.
What should people do if they recieve a fake email?
Those who receive one should report it to: Report@phishing.gov.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Second lockdown: Why there's no need to start panic-buying

Shoppers have been urged not to be a 'Covidiot ' and panic-buy food and supplies .
The warning comes after some supermarkets reported that customers had begun to stockpile toilet roll and food , following suggestions of an incoming second lockdown .
Reduced-price food aisles and hygiene sections at some stores have been left depleted in recent days - in scenes familiar to March and early April , after the Government warned of rising coronavirus cases across the UK .
What does the term 'Covidiot ' mean ?
The term has been used more and more in the UK and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the current pandemic .
It refers to a person who hoards goods , denying them from their neighbours , and also means someone who ignores the warnings regarding public health or safety .
When will the PM issue another update ?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will update MPs on the Covid-19 situation on Tuesday ( September 22 , 2020 ) amid mounting expectation that he will announce new measures to curb the spread of the virus .
'Shop as you normally would' Meanwhile , a director at the British Retail Consortium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be considerate of others and “ shop as you normally would ” – though he added supply chains are currently “ stronger than ever ” .
What have Asda , Aldi , Tesco , Sainbury 's and Lidl said about supplies of products ?
Despite scenes at some stores , supermarket giants Tesco , Asda , Sainsbury ’ s , Lidl and Aldi told PA they had “ good availability ” on Monday and have not experienced any shortages yet .
Tesco added its online capacity had almost doubled from 600,000 weekly delivery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in September .
What have the British Retail Consortium ( BRC ) said ?
Director of food and sustainability at the BRC , Andrew Opie , said : “ Supply chains are stronger than ever before and we do not anticipate any issues in the availability of food or other goods under a future lockdown .
“ Nonetheless , we urge consumers to be considerate of others and shop as they normally would.
” He added that retailers have done an “ excellent job ” making sure customers have access to food throughout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other social distancing measures .
“ As such , retail remains a safe space for consumers , even under future lockdowns , ” he said .

The warning comes after some supermarkets reported that customers had begun to stockpile toilet roll and food, following suggestions of an incoming second lockdown.
Reduced-price food aisles and hygiene sections at some stores have been left depleted in recent days - in scenes familiar to March and early April, after the Government warned of rising coronavirus cases across the UK.
What does the term 'Covidiot' mean?
The term has been used more and more in the UK and around the world in the last year due to the current pandemic.
It refers to a person who hoards goods, denying them from their neighbours, and also means someone who ignores the warnings regarding public health or safety.
When will the PM issue another update?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will update MPs on the Covid-19 situation on Tuesday (September 22, 2020) amid mounting expectation that he will announce new measures to curb the spread of the virus.
'Shop as you normally would'
Meanwhile, a director at the British Retail Consortium (BRC) has urged consumers to be considerate of others and “shop as you normally would” – though he added supply chains are currently “stronger than ever”.
What have Asda, Aldi, Tesco, Sainbury's and Lidl said about supplies of products?
Despite scenes at some stores, supermarket giants Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Lidl and Aldi told PA they had “good availability” on Monday and have not experienced any shortages yet.
Tesco added its online capacity had almost doubled from 600,000 weekly delivery slots in March, to 1.5 million in September.
What have the British Retail Consortium (BRC) said?
Director of food and sustainability at the BRC, Andrew Opie, said: “Supply chains are stronger than ever before and we do not anticipate any issues in the availability of food or other goods under a future lockdown.
“Nonetheless, we urge consumers to be considerate of others and shop as they normally would.”
He added that retailers have done an “excellent job” making sure customers have access to food throughout the pandemic, while installing perspex screens and other social distancing measures.
“As such, retail remains a safe space for consumers, even under future lockdowns,” he said.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Councillor quits Wyre Forest Conservatives over government handling of Covid-19

TWO Wyre Forest district councillors have quit the Conservative party with one citing the government 's handling of the coronavirus crisis .
Husband and wife Councillors Roger and Anna Coleman , who represent Bewdley and Rock ward , have both left the local Tory party and since joined the Independent Community and Health Concern group as part of the cross-party Progressive Alliance .
Cllr Roger Coleman told The Shuttle he decided not to renew his Conservative Group membership due to his `` unhappiness with the way central government has handled the Covid crisis '' , which he says has resulted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said in a statement : `` [ I ] confirm I have not renewed my membership of the Conservative party recently , the main reasons being my unhappiness with the way central government has handled the Covid crisis which in my opinion has resulted in many unnecessary deaths .
`` At the same time some of the financial strategy beggars belief .
`` With regard to our local MP and his support of the agriculture bill , we are totally opposed in our views and I no longer feel able to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing as a local Conservative - you are either all in or all out and I was therefore required to resign from the Wyre Forest District Council Conservative group .
`` Having been subsequently approached by Independent Community and Health Concern to join them and the Progressive Alliance , I have agreed as this gives me the best opportunity to serve the people of Bewdley and Rock in an honest and caring way . ''
Cllr Anna Coleman said : `` I found myself in a position where I wasn ’ t able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conservative Association.
” Both are now listed as members of the Independent Community and Health Concern group on the council website .
Responding to the councillors ' decisions to leave the party , Conservative Group leader Cllr Marcus Hart said : `` It is always unfortunate when someone is elected having stood for a political party and then subsequently chooses to leave it .
`` I had a telephone discussion with Roger who advised me that he had issues with the national party and that he would not be renewing his membership of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the group .
`` Roger advised me he was going to sit as an independent as he would not be joining any other group but then subsequently emailed me to say that he had joined Independent Community and Health Concern .
`` I then received an email from Anna on Saturday resigning from the group but no explanation was given .
I wish them well for their future endeavours . ''

Husband and wife Councillors Roger and Anna Coleman, who represent Bewdley and Rock ward, have both left the local Tory party and since joined the Independent Community and Health Concern group as part of the cross-party Progressive Alliance.
Cllr Roger Coleman told The Shuttle he decided not to renew his Conservative Group membership due to his "unhappiness with the way central government has handled the Covid crisis", which he says has resulted in "many unnecessary deaths".
He said in a statement: "[I] confirm I have not renewed my membership of the Conservative party recently, the main reasons being my unhappiness with the way central government has handled the Covid crisis which in my opinion has resulted in many unnecessary deaths.
"At the same time some of the financial strategy beggars belief.
"With regard to our local MP and his support of the agriculture bill, we are totally opposed in our views and I no longer feel able to support him.
"There is no such thing as a local Conservative - you are either all in or all out and I was therefore required to resign from the Wyre Forest District Council Conservative group.
"Having been subsequently approached by Independent Community and Health Concern to join them and the Progressive Alliance, I have agreed as this gives me the best opportunity to serve the people of Bewdley and Rock in an honest and caring way."
Cllr Anna Coleman said: "I found myself in a position where I wasn’t able to remain a member of Wyre Forest Conservative Association.”
Both are now listed as members of the Independent Community and Health Concern group on the council website.
Responding to the councillors' decisions to leave the party, Conservative Group leader Cllr Marcus Hart said: "It is always unfortunate when someone is elected having stood for a political party and then subsequently chooses to leave it.
"I had a telephone discussion with Roger who advised me that he had issues with the national party and that he would not be renewing his membership of the Conservative Party and therefore resigned from the group.
"Roger advised me he was going to sit as an independent as he would not be joining any other group but then subsequently emailed me to say that he had joined Independent Community and Health Concern.
"I then received an email from Anna on Saturday resigning from the group but no explanation was given. I wish them well for their future endeavours."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Boris Johnson confirms new coronavirus rules: Here's how they affect you

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has outlined a number of new coronavirus rules in a bid to curb the number of cases across the UK .
The announcement comes as the PM warned that daily deaths from Covid-19 would increase unless action is taken .
The Prime Minister told MPs : “ In the last fortnight daily hospital admissions in England have more than doubled .
“ Tens of thousands of daily infections in October would , as night follows day , lead to hundreds of daily deaths in November and those numbers would continue to grow unless we act.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the new coronavirus rules across England .
Work from home if you can do so Prime Minister Boris Johnson has told MPs that the UK has reached a “ perilous turning point ” in its fight against coronavirus , as he urged office workers who can work from home to do so .
He told MPs : “ First , we are once again asking office workers who can work from home to do so .
What about construction and retail jobs ?
The PM added : `` In key public services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not possible , such as construction or retail , people should continue to attend their workplaces.
” New face mask rules - Who now needs to wear one ?
Boris Johnson said people working in retail , those travelling in taxis , and staff and customers in indoor hospitality except while seated at a table to eat or drink would have to wear face coverings .
10pm curfew to start from Thursday for bars , pubs and restaurants across England He added : “ Second , from Thursday ( September 24 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must operate a table service only , except for takeaways .
Together with all hospitality venues , they must close at 10pm .
“ And to help the police enforce this rule that means , alas , closing not just calling for last orders , because simplicity is paramount .
`` In retail , leisure and tourism and other sectors , our Covid-secure guidelines will become legal obligations.
” The exemptions to the rule of six will be reduced , banning indoor team sport – such as indoor five-a-side football matches .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will now not go ahead from October 1 .
Speaking in the Commons , Mr Johnson said : “ We will also have to extend the rule of six to all adult indoor team sports .
`` We have to acknowledge that the spread of the virus is now affecting our ability to reopen business conferences , exhibitions and large sporting events , so we will not be able to do this from 1st October and I recognise the implications for our sports clubs which are the life and soul of our communities.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't wear a face mask The PM added : “ These rules will be enforced by tighter penalties… the penalty for failing to wear a mask or breaking the rule of six will now double to £200 for a first offence.
” Schools , colleges , universities and places of worship WILL remain open Boris Johnson also told MPs : “ No British Government would wish to stifle our freedoms in the ways that we have found necessary this year .
“ Yet even now we can draw some comfort from the fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worship are staying open , shops can serve their customers , construction workers can go to building sites and the vast majority of the UK economy can continue moving forwards . ''
'There WO N'T be another national lockdown ' - Boris Johnson confirms Boris Johnson said the Government will introduce new restrictions in England “ carefully judged to achieve the maximum reduction in the R number with the minimum damage to lives and livelihoods ” .
He told MPs : “ I want to stress that this is by no means a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We ’ re not issuing a general instruction to stay at home .
“ We will ensure that schools , colleges , universities stay open because nothing is more important than the education , health and well-being of our young people .
“ We will ensure businesses can stay open in a Covid-compliant way .
However we must take action to suppress the disease.
” Wedding ceremonies and receptions across England will be capped at 15 people from Monday , September 28 .
Up to 30 people can still attend a funeral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those shielding ?
To those shielding , Mr Johnson added : “ Following advice from our senior clinicians , our guidance continues to be that you do not need to shield , except in local lockdown areas , and we will keep this under constant review.
” How long will the new coronavirus rules remain in place ?
Boris Johnson said that the restrictions announced could remain in place for “ perhaps six months ” .
He told the Commons : “ I fervently want to avoid taking this step , as do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to avoid it if our new measures work and our behaviour changes .
“ We will spare no effort in developing vaccines , treatments , new forms of mass-testing but unless we palpably make progress we should assume that the restrictions that I have announced will remain in place for perhaps six months .
“ For the time being , this virus is a fact of our lives and I must tell the House and the country that our fight against it will continue.
” What changes have been announced for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will be able to question the Government ’ s scientific advisers more regularly .
He said : “ We are taking decisive and appropriate steps to balance saving lives with protecting jobs and livelihoods .
“ I know all of this will have profound consequences for our constituents so the Government will give the House every opportunity to scrutinise our decisions in addition to regular statements and debates , honourable members will be able to question the Government ’ s scientific advisers more regularly.
” What has the reaction been to Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Starmer said his party supported the Government ’ s lates guidance , but said while they were “ necessary ” they were not “ inevitable ” .
He said : “ Just as we supported lockdown in March and the more recent local lockdowns , although with fierce criticism of the way the Government is handling this pandemic , when restrictions are needed the national interest lies in clear communications and cross-party support.
” Sir Keir said families were worried that “ the Government doesn ’ t have a strategy ” .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encouraged to work in the office , in fact more than encouraged they were openly challenged by the Prime Minister for not doing so , today they ’ re told the opposite .
“ This is a time of national crisis but we need clear leadership .
”

The announcement comes as the PM warned that daily deaths from Covid-19 would increase unless action is taken.
The Prime Minister told MPs: “In the last fortnight daily hospital admissions in England have more than doubled.
“Tens of thousands of daily infections in October would, as night follows day, lead to hundreds of daily deaths in November and those numbers would continue to grow unless we act.”
Here's everything you need to know about the new coronavirus rules across England.
Work from home if you can do so
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has told MPs that the UK has reached a “perilous turning point” in its fight against coronavirus, as he urged office workers who can work from home to do so.
He told MPs: “First, we are once again asking office workers who can work from home to do so.
What about construction and retail jobs?
The PM added: "In key public services and in all professions where home working is not possible, such as construction or retail, people should continue to attend their workplaces.”
New face mask rules - Who now needs to wear one?
Boris Johnson said people working in retail, those travelling in taxis, and staff and customers in indoor hospitality except while seated at a table to eat or drink would have to wear face coverings.
10pm curfew to start from Thursday for bars, pubs and restaurants across England
He added: “Second, from Thursday (September 24), all pubs, bars and restaurants must operate a table service only, except for takeaways. Together with all hospitality venues, they must close at 10pm.
“And to help the police enforce this rule that means, alas, closing not just calling for last orders, because simplicity is paramount.
"In retail, leisure and tourism and other sectors, our Covid-secure guidelines will become legal obligations.”
Update on sporting events
The exemptions to the rule of six will be reduced, banning indoor team sport – such as indoor five-a-side football matches.
The planned return of spectators to sports venues will now not go ahead from October 1.
Speaking in the Commons, Mr Johnson said: “We will also have to extend the rule of six to all adult indoor team sports.
"We have to acknowledge that the spread of the virus is now affecting our ability to reopen business conferences, exhibitions and large sporting events, so we will not be able to do this from 1st October and I recognise the implications for our sports clubs which are the life and soul of our communities.”
New fines for those who don't wear a face mask
The PM added: “These rules will be enforced by tighter penalties… the penalty for failing to wear a mask or breaking the rule of six will now double to £200 for a first offence.”
Schools, colleges, universities and places of worship WILL remain open
Boris Johnson also told MPs: “No British Government would wish to stifle our freedoms in the ways that we have found necessary this year.
“Yet even now we can draw some comfort from the fact schools, universities, and places of worship are staying open, shops can serve their customers, construction workers can go to building sites and the vast majority of the UK economy can continue moving forwards."
'There WON'T be another national lockdown' - Boris Johnson confirms
Boris Johnson said the Government will introduce new restrictions in England “carefully judged to achieve the maximum reduction in the R number with the minimum damage to lives and livelihoods”.
He told MPs: “I want to stress that this is by no means a return to the full lockdown of March. We’re not issuing a general instruction to stay at home.
“We will ensure that schools, colleges, universities stay open because nothing is more important than the education, health and well-being of our young people.
“We will ensure businesses can stay open in a Covid-compliant way. However we must take action to suppress the disease.”
Maximum of 15 people can attend wedding ceremonies
Wedding ceremonies and receptions across England will be capped at 15 people from Monday, September 28.
What about funerals?
Up to 30 people can still attend a funeral in England for now.
What about those shielding?
To those shielding, Mr Johnson added: “Following advice from our senior clinicians, our guidance continues to be that you do not need to shield, except in local lockdown areas, and we will keep this under constant review.”
How long will the new coronavirus rules remain in place?
Boris Johnson said that the restrictions announced could remain in place for “perhaps six months”.
He told the Commons: “I fervently want to avoid taking this step, as do the devolved administrations but we will only be able to avoid it if our new measures work and our behaviour changes.
“We will spare no effort in developing vaccines, treatments, new forms of mass-testing but unless we palpably make progress we should assume that the restrictions that I have announced will remain in place for perhaps six months.
“For the time being, this virus is a fact of our lives and I must tell the House and the country that our fight against it will continue.”
What changes have been announced for MPs?
Boris Johnson told MPs that they will be able to question the Government’s scientific advisers more regularly.
He said: “We are taking decisive and appropriate steps to balance saving lives with protecting jobs and livelihoods.
“I know all of this will have profound consequences for our constituents so the Government will give the House every opportunity to scrutinise our decisions in addition to regular statements and debates, honourable members will be able to question the Government’s scientific advisers more regularly.”
What has the reaction been to Boris' announcement?
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said his party supported the Government’s lates guidance, but said while they were “necessary” they were not “inevitable”.
He said: “Just as we supported lockdown in March and the more recent local lockdowns, although with fierce criticism of the way the Government is handling this pandemic, when restrictions are needed the national interest lies in clear communications and cross-party support.”
Sir Keir said families were worried that “the Government doesn’t have a strategy”.
He added: “One day people were encouraged to work in the office, in fact more than encouraged they were openly challenged by the Prime Minister for not doing so, today they’re told the opposite.
“This is a time of national crisis but we need clear leadership.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-22--Covid-19 rules: How to safely take part in outdoor sports

THE Latest coronavirus rules state that social gatherings of more than six people are now illegal and may result in fines .
But how does that affect those of us who want to go outdoors , get some exercise , and take part in sports ?
Here are some guidelines to follow .
Am I allowed to exercise with people from outside my household ?
Yes , but only with up to five people .
This also includes people within support bubbles .
Gatherings of more than six are not allowed unless this is essential for work purposes .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2m between people from different households , or 1m , where 2m is not possible .
Where can I exercise outside ?
Outdoor sports courts , outdoor gyms , outdoor swimming pools and playgrounds and other outdoor sporting activities are now allowed to reopen , provided those responsible can open them safely following Covid secure guidelines .
Where possible , it ’ s recommended that you limit the sharing of sports equipment , for example , you should use your own tennis racquet , golf club or basketball , but if you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are sharing equipment , including balls , you should wash your hands thoroughly before and after use .
What about people aged 70 or over ?
Although you can meet people outdoors and indoors , people should be careful and diligent about social distancing and hand hygiene .
Clinically vulnerable groups ( such as people 70 or over ) , could be at higher risk of serious illness from coronavirus .
Can I still see my personal trainer ?
Yes , personal training or coaching is permitted outside , as long as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided no more than six people from different households are gathering .
Parents can also take their children to a coaching or training session , as long as the gathering does not exceed six people from different households .
Will changing rooms be open at facilities and can I take a shower ?
It ’ s best to avoid using changing rooms .
They are an area of increased risk of transmission .
It is important that social distancing is maintained in changing rooms and showers and that they are only used if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to arrive at the facility in sports kit and where possible to travel home to change/shower .
Am I allowed to take part in water sports ?
All forms of water sports practised on open waterways , including sailing , windsurfing , canoeing , rowing , kayaking , surfing , paddle-boarding , and the use of motorised craft are allowed provided that the guidance on social distancing is observed .

But how does that affect those of us who want to go outdoors, get some exercise, and take part in sports? Here are some guidelines to follow.
Am I allowed to exercise with people from outside my household?
Yes, but only with up to five people. This also includes people within support bubbles. Gatherings of more than six are not allowed unless this is essential for work purposes.
You should still be keeping a distance of 2m between people from different households, or 1m, where 2m is not possible.
Where can I exercise outside?
Outdoor sports courts, outdoor gyms, outdoor swimming pools and playgrounds and other outdoor sporting activities are now allowed to reopen, provided those responsible can open them safely following Covid secure guidelines.
Where possible, it’s recommended that you limit the sharing of sports equipment, for example, you should use your own tennis racquet, golf club or basketball, but if you do, practise strict hand hygiene.
If you are sharing equipment, including balls, you should wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.
What about people aged 70 or over?
Although you can meet people outdoors and indoors, people should be careful and diligent about social distancing and hand hygiene.
Clinically vulnerable groups (such as people 70 or over), could be at higher risk of serious illness from coronavirus.
Can I still see my personal trainer?
Yes, personal training or coaching is permitted outside, as long as the social distancing guidelines are followed and provided no more than six people from different households are gathering.
Parents can also take their children to a coaching or training session, as long as the gathering does not exceed six people from different households.
Will changing rooms be open at facilities and can I take a shower?
It’s best to avoid using changing rooms. They are an area of increased risk of transmission. It is important that social distancing is maintained in changing rooms and showers and that they are only used if essential. All venues should encourage attendees to arrive at the facility in sports kit and where possible to travel home to change/shower.
Am I allowed to take part in water sports?
All forms of water sports practised on open waterways, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding, and the use of motorised craft are allowed provided that the guidance on social distancing is observed.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-23--M5 closed in both directions after crash near Worcester

A TANKER has crashed on the M5 causing heavy traffic as the motorway is closed in both directions .
The @ @ @ @ @ reservation and is causing significant tailbacks northbound between junctions 6 and 7 .
It has @ @ @ @ @ is closed in both directions while police and highways officers deal with the crash .
@ @ @ @ @ said : `` Please be aware - incident occurring M5 northbound J7 Whittington to J6 @ @ @ @ @ southbound carriage J6 to J7 which is now closed .
`` Your journey time will @ @ @ @ @ advised to find alternative route if possible .
Police led incident . ''
Highways West @ @ @ @ @ on scene dealing with the crash .
In a tweet , the agency said : @ @ @ @ @ blocked ( of 3 ) M5 northbound J7 Whittington to J6 Warndon due to a @ @ @ @ @ on scene , there is a temporary stop on traffic . ''

The tanker went through the central reservation and caused significant tailbacks northbound between junctions 6 and 7.
Traffic is now flowing in both directions Northbound and Southbound, however Lane 3 remains closed both ways for barrier repair.
There is a fuel spillage and debris on the road.
Officers have warned drivers to avoid the area if possible as there are "significant delays" approaching the closures in both directions.
Emergency services including West Mercia Police and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service are in attendance.
Highways England Traffic Officers are also on scene, providing assistance with traffic management.
There is a significant amount of barrier damage at scene, for which Highways England contractors will be attending to assess and repair.
The vehicle is transporting flammable liquids, and an exclusion zone is in place for safety reasons.
Northbound diverted traffic should follow the hollow triangle diversion symbol. Leave the M5 at J7 and bear left onto the A44. Continue on the A44 until the roundabout with the A4440. Take the second exit at the roundabout and join the A4440 northbound. Continue on this road, passing over five roundabouts until the roundabout with Berkeley Way. Turn right and then re-join the M5 northbound at J6.
Southbound diverted traffic should follow the solid diamond diversion symbol. Leave the M5 southbound at J6 and bear left onto the A4538. Continue to the first roundabout and then take the third exit onto the B4636. Continue to the next roundabout and then take the first exit onto the A4440. Continue on this road until the second roundabout and then take the first exit onto the B4084. Continue on this road to then re-join the M5 southbound at J7.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-09-23--MP's message to non-mask wearers and Covid conspiracy theorists

THE battle with coronavirus , that has been fought since March , has entered a new front .
The statistics coming out show that we are losing the battle , with the reproduction rate of the virus implying a significant increase in future cases .
The Prime Minister has announced a new set of measures to try to beat Covid-19 .
These measures yet again curtail our normal lives .
But at the same time , they try to find a way through the incredibly complex process of balancing the interests of lives against livelihoods .
It is incredibly difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are seeing their life ’ s work vanish as a result of government intervention .
The effect on businesses and our economy will be more profound the longer this continues .
Importantly , some of the previous guidance has now been elevated to law .
What was once a guideline is now an enforceable requirement .
Failure to comply can result in fines .
I can see why .
When I go to the shops in Wyre Forest , people tend to stick to the rules .
But in London , when I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small handful of people wore a mask .
Some people are diligent , some forgetful , and others just fight against the rules .
I get a few emails from people who challenge the rules , saying they are an infringement on the personal liberties .
I understand how frustrating this all is , but the more people push back on the guidelines , the more we put at risk huge numbers of people – public sector workers , the vulnerable , and those who are working at risk to themselves to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hear from conspiracy theorists who believe the government has some hidden agenda .
This couldn ’ t be further from the truth .
Everyone in government , and across the country , want us to get back to normal .
No one wants to spend billions of taxpayers ’ pounds on unnecessary schemes .
Everything we are doing is all about getting life , as soon as possible , back to normal .
The more we all do our bit , the quicker we can get through this .
But to get through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stick to the rules , no matter how hard they may seem .
We all have a right to our freedoms , but we also have a right to expect the government to protect us .
The government , and our amazing public servants , are doing their best to get us through this .

The statistics coming out show that we are losing the battle, with the reproduction rate of the virus implying a significant increase in future cases.
The Prime Minister has announced a new set of measures to try to beat Covid-19. These measures yet again curtail our normal lives. But at the same time, they try to find a way through the incredibly complex process of balancing the interests of lives against livelihoods.
It is incredibly difficult to manage, especially when some people are seeing their life’s work vanish as a result of government intervention.
The effect on businesses and our economy will be more profound the longer this continues.
Importantly, some of the previous guidance has now been elevated to law. What was once a guideline is now an enforceable requirement. Failure to comply can result in fines.
I can see why. When I go to the shops in Wyre Forest, people tend to stick to the rules.
But in London, when I dropped into my local Tesco just a small handful of people wore a mask. Some people are diligent, some forgetful, and others just fight against the rules.
I get a few emails from people who challenge the rules, saying they are an infringement on the personal liberties.
I understand how frustrating this all is, but the more people push back on the guidelines, the more we put at risk huge numbers of people – public sector workers, the vulnerable, and those who are working at risk to themselves to help deal with this problem.
I even hear from conspiracy theorists who believe the government has some hidden agenda. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Everyone in government, and across the country, want us to get back to normal.
No one wants to spend billions of taxpayers’ pounds on unnecessary schemes. Everything we are doing is all about getting life, as soon as possible, back to normal.
The more we all do our bit, the quicker we can get through this. But to get through this, it is vital that we stick to the rules, no matter how hard they may seem.
We all have a right to our freedoms, but we also have a right to expect the government to protect us.
The government, and our amazing public servants, are doing their best to get us through this.