kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-07--'Secret' Covid-19 tracker appearing on iOS and Android

Recent updates to iOS and Android have left users baffled after a 'secret ' app function , 'Covid 19 Exposure Logging ' , has been downloaded unknowingly .
Recent updates to both iOS and Android devices brought with them the Exposure Notification API , and it appears that some weeks on , users are noticing the new function on their phones .
However , this feature is not a new app in and of itself , and the API ( Application Programming Interface ) serves only to allow future coronavirus contact tracing apps to work on the devices .
Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contract tracing app , the new function makes no difference to Brits ' phones .
The UK 's future contact tracing app will use Bluetooth technology to track phones that are within close proximity to each other , allowing health officials to easily identify anyone who has been close to someone with Covid-19 .
Here 's everything you need to know : What is the new 'tracker ' ?
iOS and Google 's Android operating systems run on 98 per cent of phones and tablets globally , and earlier in the year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help in fighting the spread of Covid-19 .
The joint effort to permit devices to be used for contact tracing will enable authorities to track people who have been exposed to coronavirus carriers .
Since the Exposure Notification API is not an app , it can not make any changes or do anything to your phone until a compatible programme is installed .
The Covid-19 Exposure Logging function is disabled by default in territories where a workable contact tracing app is not available , such as the UK .
Its settings page @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with other devices using Bluetooth , '' but only `` when enabled '' .
It 's not something that will be apparent to many users , and seems to have been 'discovered ' by eagle-eyed tech fans attempting to diagnose problems with their handsets .
The initial phase of the roll-out requires users to download apps from public health authorities in order to enable contact tracing on their devices .
Apple and Google have said that they plan to do away with the need for dedicated apps and bake `` a broader , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operating systems directly , but that should be available `` in the coming months . ''
Those who have stumbled across the new function appear to have been blindsided by its appearance .
Some have described the `` sneaky '' introduction of the new feature as `` Orwellian '' , despite both Apple and Google announcing its arrival ahead of their latest updates .
Exposure Logging 's settings page says it `` can not access any data in , or add data to , the Health app . ''
`` The random IDs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exposure log for 14 days .
`` This exposure log allows an app you authorise to notify you if you may have been exposed to Covid-19 . ''
Users in Germany - which does have a working contact tracing app - have complained that the function drains battery life .
And now tech fans in the UK are blaming Covid-19 Exposure Logging for a multitude of issues with their own devices .
No connection between the new feature and any other issue has been officially confirmed .
It 's likely that those experiencing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to isolate the problem , unwittingly stumbled upon Covid-19 Exposure Logging , and put two and two together .
However , as with all new updates and features , bugs and glitches do happen , though both Google are Apple are yet to report any known issues .

Recent updates to both iOS and Android devices brought with them the Exposure Notification API, and it appears that some weeks on, users are noticing the new function on their phones.
However, this feature is not a new app in and of itself, and the API (Application Programming Interface) serves only to allow future coronavirus contact tracing apps to work on the devices.
Since the UK doesn't have a working contract tracing app, the new function makes no difference to Brits' phones.
The UK's future contact tracing app will use Bluetooth technology to track phones that are within close proximity to each other, allowing health officials to easily identify anyone who has been close to someone with Covid-19.
Here's everything you need to know:
What is the new 'tracker'?
iOS and Google's Android operating systems run on 98 per cent of phones and tablets globally, and earlier in the year, the two tech giants announced a partnership to help in fighting the spread of Covid-19.
The joint effort to permit devices to be used for contact tracing will enable authorities to track people who have been exposed to coronavirus carriers.
Since the Exposure Notification API is not an app, it cannot make any changes or do anything to your phone until a compatible programme is installed.
The Covid-19 Exposure Logging function is disabled by default in territories where a workable contact tracing app is not available, such as the UK.
Its settings page says it can "exchange random IDs with other devices using Bluetooth," but only "when enabled".
It's not something that will be apparent to many users, and seems to have been 'discovered' by eagle-eyed tech fans attempting to diagnose problems with their handsets.
The initial phase of the roll-out requires users to download apps from public health authorities in order to enable contact tracing on their devices.
Apple and Google have said that they plan to do away with the need for dedicated apps and bake "a broader, Bluetooth-based contact tracing platform" into their operating systems directly, but that should be available "in the coming months."
Should I be worried?
Those who have stumbled across the new function appear to have been blindsided by its appearance.
Some have described the "sneaky" introduction of the new feature as "Orwellian", despite both Apple and Google announcing its arrival ahead of their latest updates.
Exposure Logging's settings page says it "cannot access any data in, or add data to, the Health app."
"The random IDs your device collects are stored in an exposure log for 14 days.
"This exposure log allows an app you authorise to notify you if you may have been exposed to Covid-19."
Does it drain battery?
Users in Germany - which does have a working contact tracing app - have complained that the function drains battery life.
And now tech fans in the UK are blaming Covid-19 Exposure Logging for a multitude of issues with their own devices.
No connection between the new feature and any other issue has been officially confirmed.
It's likely that those experiencing problems delved into their settings to try to isolate the problem, unwittingly stumbled upon Covid-19 Exposure Logging, and put two and two together.
However, as with all new updates and features, bugs and glitches do happen, though both Google are Apple are yet to report any known issues.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-08--Old newsagents to reopen as hair and beauty salon after major refurb

A NEW hair and beauty salon is set to open its doors at the site of a former newsagents near Stourport .
The Salon at Areley Kings will welcome its first clients on Thursday after being officially opened by the Mayor of Stourport Ken Henderson and his daughter Julie Guest on Tuesday .
The building had previously been used as a newsagents and has undergone a major refurbishment on all three floors to transform it into a hair , lashes and beauty salon .
Salon owner Memi Ladek , who has been a hairdresser for 22 years , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ premises .
It was a lot of work as it was a building site when we took it on .
`` We 've had to replaster everything and do it all from scratch - it 's been like an episode of DIY SOS .
`` The community in Areley Kings have been so supportive .
I think they 're just happy to see that someone has taken it over and made it look lovely .
`` Two salons have had to close in Stourport because of the pandemic so we 're taking on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The hairdressers will open on Thursday , but we 're still waiting for Boris to release the date for beauty salons - it 's such a shame we ca n't all open at the same time but hopefully it wo n't be too much longer . ''
The Salon at Areley Kings features a hairdressers on the bottom floor , a lashes salon on the first floor and beauty salon on the top floor .
The hair salon is already completely booked up until mid-August .
Memi said : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 years so I know the village really well .
We 're really looking forward to opening . ''

The Salon at Areley Kings will welcome its first clients on Thursday after being officially opened by the Mayor of Stourport Ken Henderson and his daughter Julie Guest on Tuesday.
The building had previously been used as a newsagents and has undergone a major refurbishment on all three floors to transform it into a hair, lashes and beauty salon.
Memi Ladek, who runs the salon alongside Becca Winsper, said: "We've completely renovated the whole premises. It was a lot of work as it was a building site when we took it on.
"We've had to replaster everything and do it all from scratch - it's been like an episode of DIY SOS.
The site has undergone a major refurbishment
"The community in Areley Kings have been so supportive. I think they're just happy to see that someone has taken it over and made it look lovely.
"Two salons have had to close in Stourport because of the pandemic so we're taking on a lot of their old clients too.
"The hairdressers will open on Thursday, but we're still waiting for Boris to release the date for beauty salons - it's such a shame we can't all open at the same time but hopefully it won't be too much longer."
The Salon at Areley Kings features a hairdressers on the bottom floor, a lashes salon on the first floor and beauty salon on the top floor.
The hair salon is already completely booked up until mid-August.
Memi said: "I've lived just around the corner for 15 years so I know the village really well. We're really looking forward to opening."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-08--Worcestershire Royal Hospital worker found dead

A MEMBER of staff from Worcestershire Royal Hospital has been found dead at the hospital .
The trust announced there @ @ @ @ @ '' on Saturday ( July 4 ) evening where a man was found dead at @ @ @ @ @ , chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said : “ We can confirm @ @ @ @ @ incident involving the death of a colleague at Worcestershire Royal Hospital on Saturday evening .
@ @ @ @ @ ongoing support to all members of staff affected as well as the family of our @ @ @ @ @ deepest sympathies go out to everyone touched by this tragedy .
`` We will not @ @ @ @ @ , or making any further comment , at this stage.
” A police spokesman said @ @ @ @ @ found deceased at the hospital at around 8.35pm on Saturday evening ( July 4 ) @ @ @ @ @ ’ t being treated as suspicious . ''

The trust announced there was a "tragic incident" on Saturday (July 4) evening where a man was found dead at around 8.35pm.
Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said: “We can confirm that there was a tragic incident involving the death of a colleague at Worcestershire Royal Hospital on Saturday evening.
"The police were notified immediately.
"We have been offering ongoing support to all members of staff affected as well as the family of our deceased colleague.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to everyone touched by this tragedy.
"We will not be releasing any more information, or making any further comment, at this stage.”
A police spokesman said: "A man was found deceased at the hospital at around 8.35pm on Saturday evening (July 4).
"His death isn’t being treated as suspicious."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-08--'Higher bills' after gang stole batteries from Openreach

A GANG of thieves stole batteries from Openreach boxes to sell for scrap , costing the company `` millions '' and resulting in higher bills for broadband customers .
Dean Davies , 32 , was jailed after he admitted three counts of theft , each containing multiple acts of stealing the batteries , including in Kidderminster , Stourport , Droitwich , Bromsgrove and Redditch .
His co-defendants , Maurice Davies , 33 , and Michael Nelson Smith , 21 , admitted a single count of theft which also involved multiple batteries being stolen .
Nicholas Berry , prosecuting , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ value of the lead contained in the batteries in the green Openreach fibre optic broadband boxes located at the side of footpaths and roads which provide high speed broadband services to businesses and homes .
The barrister said £3 million of these batteries were stolen nationwide last year and £131,000 in the West Mercia Police force area alone .
Each locked box contains four back-up batteries in the event of a power cut and each full set of batteries costs £500 to replace .
However , a business impact statement released by Openreach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revealed other costs including inconvenience to customers , disruption of infrastructure and the loss of staff time .
Each theft took about one hour to deal with by specialist engineers , some of whom had to be drafted in from Manchester to deal with the faults and diverted from other jobs .
The company has also had to fund IT systems to better identify when such thefts occur .
Mr Berry said it was a cost `` measured in millions of pounds each year '' which was passed on in higher bills to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the police investigation was a white Renault Master van linked to a theft on April 24 last year , a theft captured on CCTV which showed four batteries being placed in the back .
He said the same van was used to ram a police vehicle in Maypole Road , Stourbridge on May 1 last year which resulted in a pursuit .
When the van was stopped two males ran from it .
Police found 43 batteries in the back of the van which was not registered with the DVLA and was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they found waste transfer documents in the name of Dean Davies , one concerning 32 batteries dating back to October 28 , 2018 and another for 148 batteries from January 22 last year .
The documents were registered to R Davies Metals & Sons in Kingswinford .
The van was examined by a scenes of crime officer and DNA linking Dean Davies to the vehicle was found .
On June 5 last year , a red Ford Transit van was stopped containing all three defendants and 36 batteries .
“ All were arrested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Mr Berry .
Because each battery had a unique reference number , Openreach could establish the timing and location of the thefts .
One count of theft involved 13 separate thefts in Kidderminster and Stourport ( £6,500 ) , another count involved 12 in Redditch ( £6,000 ) and the final count involved five thefts from Droitwich and Bromsgrove ( £2,500 ) .
Dean Davies admitted all counts while Maurice Davies and Smith only admitted the final count .
They sold the batteries for cash in Kidderminster , the court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had no previous convictions .
Another count will be allowed to lie on file .
Jason Aris , for Dean Davies and Michael Smith , said both his clients had pleaded guilty at the plea and trial preparation hearing and urged the judge to bear in mind their lack of previous convictions and that both were deemed by probation to be at a low risk of reoffending .
“ Both were extremely silly in what they did , ” he said .
The advocate described Dean Davies as a father-of-two and a carer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cancer and COPD , arguing that he was `` dedicated to his family '' .
Amanda O ’ Mara , for Maurice Davies , said the boxing coach had lost a baby and his partner was about to be induced .
A reference from another boxing coach referred to him as an `` undeniably good man who went down the wrong path '' .
Judge Cartwright , sentencing , said : “ All of these thefts were professional and planned .
The motivation was purely greed.
” He said there was sophistication in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boxes and they wore high visibility clothing to make anyone who saw them think they were carrying out legitimate work .
He jailed Dean Davies of Mullet Street , Brierley Hill for 27 months .
Maurice Davies of Mullet Street , Brierley Hill and Michael Nelson Smith of Tiled House Lane , Brierley Hill , were both sentenced to 12 months in prison , suspended for two years , and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days .

A GANG of thieves stole batteries from Openreach boxes to sell for scrap, costing the company "millions" and resulting in higher bills for broadband customers.
Dean Davies, 32, was jailed after he admitted three counts of theft, each containing multiple acts of stealing the batteries, including in Kidderminster, Stourport, Droitwich, Bromsgrove and Redditch.
His co-defendants, Maurice Davies, 33, and Michael Nelson Smith, 21, admitted a single count of theft which also involved multiple batteries being stolen.
Nicholas Berry, prosecuting, said the thefts were motivated by the scrap value of the lead contained in the batteries in the green Openreach fibre optic broadband boxes located at the side of footpaths and roads which provide high speed broadband services to businesses and homes.
The barrister said £3 million of these batteries were stolen nationwide last year and £131,000 in the West Mercia Police force area alone. Each locked box contains four back-up batteries in the event of a power cut and each full set of batteries costs £500 to replace.
However, a business impact statement released by Openreach, a subsidiary of BT, also revealed other costs including inconvenience to customers, disruption of infrastructure and the loss of staff time.
Each theft took about one hour to deal with by specialist engineers, some of whom had to be drafted in from Manchester to deal with the faults and diverted from other jobs.
The company has also had to fund IT systems to better identify when such thefts occur.
Mr Berry said it was a cost "measured in millions of pounds each year" which was passed on in higher bills to customers.
Mr Berry said the focus of the police investigation was a white Renault Master van linked to a theft on April 24 last year, a theft captured on CCTV which showed four batteries being placed in the back.
He said the same van was used to ram a police vehicle in Maypole Road, Stourbridge on May 1 last year which resulted in a pursuit. When the van was stopped two males ran from it.
Police found 43 batteries in the back of the van which was not registered with the DVLA and was being driven on false plates.
Inside they found waste transfer documents in the name of Dean Davies, one concerning 32 batteries dating back to October 28, 2018 and another for 148 batteries from January 22 last year.
The documents were registered to R Davies Metals & Sons in Kingswinford. The van was examined by a scenes of crime officer and DNA linking Dean Davies to the vehicle was found.
On June 5 last year, a red Ford Transit van was stopped containing all three defendants and 36 batteries.
“All were arrested and all answered no comment in interview,” said Mr Berry.
Because each battery had a unique reference number, Openreach could establish the timing and location of the thefts.
One count of theft involved 13 separate thefts in Kidderminster and Stourport (£6,500), another count involved 12 in Redditch (£6,000) and the final count involved five thefts from Droitwich and Bromsgrove (£2,500).
Dean Davies admitted all counts while Maurice Davies and Smith only admitted the final count. They sold the batteries for cash in Kidderminster, the court heard.
All defendants in the case had no previous convictions. Another count will be allowed to lie on file.
Jason Aris, for Dean Davies and Michael Smith, said both his clients had pleaded guilty at the plea and trial preparation hearing and urged the judge to bear in mind their lack of previous convictions and that both were deemed by probation to be at a low risk of reoffending.
“Both were extremely silly in what they did,” he said.
The advocate described Dean Davies as a father-of-two and a carer for his dad who suffers from terminal cancer and COPD, arguing that he was "dedicated to his family".
Amanda O’Mara, for Maurice Davies, said the boxing coach had lost a baby and his partner was about to be induced. A reference from another boxing coach referred to him as an "undeniably good man who went down the wrong path".
Judge Cartwright, sentencing, said: “All of these thefts were professional and planned. The motivation was purely greed.”
He said there was sophistication in that they had acquired keys to the boxes and they wore high visibility clothing to make anyone who saw them think they were carrying out legitimate work.
He jailed Dean Davies of Mullet Street, Brierley Hill for 27 months. Maurice Davies of Mullet Street, Brierley Hill and Michael Nelson Smith of Tiled House Lane, Brierley Hill, were both sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-08--Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant donates to Kidderminster nurses

A ROCK legend has described Worcestershire ’ s community nurses as `` unsung heroes '' after donating new equipment to the NHS team in Kidderminster .
Robert Plant , front man of iconic rock band Led Zeppelin , has donated a new emergency lifting cushion to the Glades Neighbourhood Team .
The cushion will support patients who have had a fall at home .
The Glades Neighbourhood Team is one of 13 integrated community nursing teams working across Worcestershire .
Led by Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust and made up of nurses , therapists , social workers and GPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in patients ’ homes , reducing avoidable admissions to hospital by around 15 a day .
Mr Plant said : `` The Neighbourhood Teams do a really important job in supporting people to remain at home , avoiding hospital wherever possible .
`` Community nurses and social care teams are real unsung heroes and over the last few months they have been on the front-line , in people ’ s homes , caring for some of the most vulnerable in our communities .
`` I am pleased to be able to support the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these amazing staff who don ’ t often get the praise they deserve.
” The cushion will be used by the Glades Neighbourhood Team which supports patients across Kidderminster and Hagley .
Ruth Walmsley , Glades Neighbourhood Team lead , said : “ This generous donation will mean so much to our patients as we will be able to respond in an urgent way to assist patients when they have fallen .
`` Currently this requires a paramedic call-out as this is not equipment we have access to in the Neighbourhood Team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will save the paramedics having to respond to these calls and free up their capacity for life threatening emergencies .
”

Robert Plant, front man of iconic rock band Led Zeppelin, has donated a new emergency lifting cushion to the Glades Neighbourhood Team.
The cushion will support patients who have had a fall at home.
The Glades Neighbourhood Team is one of 13 integrated community nursing teams working across Worcestershire.
Led by Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust and made up of nurses, therapists, social workers and GPs, the team provides care and treatment in patients’ homes, reducing avoidable admissions to hospital by around 15 a day.
Mr Plant said: "The Neighbourhood Teams do a really important job in supporting people to remain at home, avoiding hospital wherever possible.
"Community nurses and social care teams are real unsung heroes and over the last few months they have been on the front-line, in people’s homes, caring for some of the most vulnerable in our communities.
"I am pleased to be able to support the teams and want to help raise awareness of these amazing staff who don’t often get the praise they deserve.”
The cushion will be used by the Glades Neighbourhood Team which supports patients across Kidderminster and Hagley.
Ruth Walmsley, Glades Neighbourhood Team lead, said: “This generous donation will mean so much to our patients as we will be able to respond in an urgent way to assist patients when they have fallen.
"Currently this requires a paramedic call-out as this is not equipment we have access to in the Neighbourhood Team, so having this equipment readily available will save the paramedics having to respond to these calls and free up their capacity for life threatening emergencies.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-08--Data shows where 113 people died of coronavirus in Wyre Forest

WORCESTERSHIRE ’ s coronavirus death toll has risen to 518 , as new figures show which settings saw the most fatalities .
The latest Office of National Statistics ( ONS ) data shows three people with Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate died in Worcestershire from June 19 to June 26 .
All three people died in hospital .
This is the lowest week so far and compares with around 100 deaths per week in the county at the height of the pandemic .
There were no local deaths that week in a care home , hospice , a communal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also show that , in that week , there were no deaths of residents from Worcester , Wychavon , Malvern Hills or Wyre Forest , as the three people who died included two from Redditch and one from Bromsgrove .
• 133 Bromsgrove residents : 74 in hospital , 54 in a care home , four elsewhere and one in a communal establishment .
• 113 Wyre Forest residents ; 63 in hospital , 39 in a care home , nine at home and two in a communal establishment .
• 106 Wychavon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 47 in hospital , four at home , four in a communal establishment , two in a hospice and one elsewhere .
• 61 people from Worcester ; 27 in hospital , 27 in a care home , four at home , two in a communal establishment and one in a hospice .
• 59 people from Redditch ; 48 in hospital , eight in a care home , two at home , and one in a communal establishment .
• 46 people from Malvern ; 23 in hospital , 20 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and one in a communal establishment .

The latest Office of National Statistics (ONS) data shows three people with Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate died in Worcestershire from June 19 to June 26. All three people died in hospital.
This is the lowest week so far and compares with around 100 deaths per week in the county at the height of the pandemic.
There were no local deaths that week in a care home, hospice, a communal establishment or elsewhere.
The ONS statistics also show that, in that week, there were no deaths of residents from Worcester, Wychavon, Malvern Hills or Wyre Forest, as the three people who died included two from Redditch and one from Bromsgrove.
The 518 coronavirus-related deaths in Worcestershire included:


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-08--What the Chancellor has announced to help the economy

An emergency package of measures has been announced to help deal with the economic impact of coronavirus .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has warned that “ hardship lies ahead ” , but insisted that no-one will be left “ without hope ” .
In what amounts to a mini-budget , Mr Sunak told MPs that the Government will do “ all we can ” to keep people in work .
He said his “ plan for jobs ” would help protect livelihoods after the economy contracted by 25 % in just two months .
• An 'Eat Out to Help Out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' as some are describing it .
• A £2 billion scheme of taxpayer-funded work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment .
• A £3 billion green package , with grants for home-owners and public buildings to improve energy efficiency .
• A VAT cut to encourage people to return to the hospitality sector with VAT cut from 20 % to 5 % from next Wednesday until January 12 .
This will have an impact on eat-in or hot takeaway food from restaurants , cafes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ B & Bs , campsites and caravan sites , as well as attractions like cinemas , theme parks and zoos .
• No stamp duty on homes under £500,000 .
It takes effect today until March 31st 2021 .
What about the furlough scheme ?
The Chancellor stuck firm to the October deadline for the job retention furlough scheme to end but said it would be replaced with a new Jobs Retention Bonus .
Explaining the new bonus scheme , Rishi Sunak said : “ If you ’ re an employer and you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and continuously employ them through to January – we ’ ll pay you a £1,000 bonus per employee .
“ Its vital people aren ’ t just returning for the sake of it – they need to be doing decent work .
So for businesses to get the bonus , the employee must be paid at least £520 on average , in each month from November to the end of January – the equivalent of the lower earnings limit in national insurance.
” The Chancellor said if employers bring back all nine million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would be a £9 billion policy .
He added : “ Our message to business is clear : if you stand by your workers , we will stand by you.
” What is the economic situation we 're in ?
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development ( OECD ) have warned that the UK ’ s unemployment rate could soar to 14.8 % , with job losses comparable to the 1930s .
Thousands of jobs have been cut as businesses struggled through lockdown , with Royal Mail , Centrica , easyJet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meanwhile , on the eve of the speech , the Unite union said 2,200 DHL workers involved in the production of Jaguar Land Rover ’ s vehicles are being told that they could lose their jobs .
The 2,200 proposed redundancies comprise just under 40 % of the entire DHL workforce on the contract , it added .

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has warned that “hardship lies ahead”, but insisted that no-one will be left “without hope”.
In what amounts to a mini-budget, Mr Sunak told MPs that the Government will do “all we can” to keep people in work.
He said his “plan for jobs” would help protect livelihoods after the economy contracted by 25% in just two months.
To support restaurants and the people who work in them we’re saying ‘Eat Out to Help Out’.
So for the month of August we will give you a 50% reduction, up to £10 per head, on sit-down meals and non-alcoholic drinks Monday-Wednesday. #PlanForJobs pic.twitter.com/D6eznIDjqC — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 8, 2020
What was announced?
The raft of wide-ranging measures includes:
An 'Eat Out to Help Out' discount scheme or 'Dosh for Nosh' as some are describing it.
A £2 billion scheme of taxpayer-funded work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.
A £3 billion green package, with grants for home-owners and public buildings to improve energy efficiency.
A £111 million programme of unpaid traineeships combining work experience with training.
A VAT cut to encourage people to return to the hospitality sector with VAT cut from 20% to 5% from next Wednesday until January 12. This will have an impact on eat-in or hot takeaway food from restaurants, cafes and pubs; accommodation in hotels, B&Bs, campsites and caravan sites, as well as attractions like cinemas, theme parks and zoos.
No stamp duty on homes under £500,000. It takes effect today until March 31st 2021.
What about the furlough scheme?
The Chancellor stuck firm to the October deadline for the job retention furlough scheme to end but said it would be replaced with a new Jobs Retention Bonus.
Explaining the new bonus scheme, Rishi Sunak said: “If you’re an employer and you bring back someone who was furloughed – and continuously employ them through to January – we’ll pay you a £1,000 bonus per employee.
“Its vital people aren’t just returning for the sake of it – they need to be doing decent work. So for businesses to get the bonus, the employee must be paid at least £520 on average, in each month from November to the end of January – the equivalent of the lower earnings limit in national insurance.”
Rishi Sunak - pic. PA Wire
The Chancellor said if employers bring back all nine million people who have been on furlough then it would be a £9 billion policy.
He added: “Our message to business is clear: if you stand by your workers, we will stand by you.”
What is the economic situation we're in?
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have warned that the UK’s unemployment rate could soar to 14.8%, with job losses comparable to the 1930s.
Thousands of jobs have been cut as businesses struggled through lockdown, with Royal Mail, Centrica, easyJet and British Airways among those affected.
Meanwhile, on the eve of the speech, the Unite union said 2,200 DHL workers involved in the production of Jaguar Land Rover’s vehicles are being told that they could lose their jobs.
The 2,200 proposed redundancies comprise just under 40% of the entire DHL workforce on the contract, it added.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-09--Petition calls for memorial to Wyre Forest coronavirus victims

A PETITION has been launched to build a memorial to honour the people who died from coronavirus in Kidderminster , Stourport and Bewdley .
Kerry Salmon , from Stourport , is calling on Wyre Forest District Council to fund a memorial featuring the names of all the patients who lost their lives to the virus - including her mum Georgina Dixon , who passed away in April , aged 65 .
Kerry said : `` My mum died from Covid-19 on April 15 .
The last time we saw her was the week before as she was rushed into hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She didn ’ t really have the symptoms – she just had a bad chest which we thought was a chest infection .
She hadn ’ t been out anywhere except for to the doctors .
`` I spoke to her on the Saturday and she was fine , but then on Sunday , she deteriorated .
They told her she had Covid-19 and took her down to ICU .
`` They put her on an oxygen mask and we had a phone call on the Tuesday to say it did n't look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mum took the mask off herself - she could n't bear it anymore - and that evening , she passed away .
`` The Thursday after , they changed the law so that people could go to see their loved ones at the end .
It broke my dad 's heart .
`` My dad caught the virus too but luckily we still have him with us . ''
Kerry said her mum , who lived in Bewdley , had suffered with underlying health conditions , including polio and asthma .
Georgina was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now , her daughter Kerry is campaigning for a plaques to be commissioned to remember those who died to coronavirus , and has set up a Change.org petition which has already attracted more than 130 signatures .
Kerry said : `` I want my mum to be remembered , not just as a number , but as a person .
She had a family and she had been with my dad for 45 years .
`` The families in Wyre Forest need some reassurance that we are going to get a place to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's plaques put up on walls or on benches .
I 've seen similar things done in Wales .
`` I 'm hoping the council will find it in their hearts to get this done .
`` These people deserve to be remembered , but it 's also a piece of history .
This pandemic will be remembered forever . ''
According to data from the Office of National Statistics , there had been 113 coronavirus-related deaths in Wyre Forest in the weeks leading up to June 26 .
Councillor Graham Ballinger , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ The council extends its sympathy to everyone who has lost a family member or friend to Covid-19 .
`` The district council is not planning to organise a physical memorial to those who have sadly died .
`` If there is a desire locally to erect public memorials , the proposal is best considered by town and parish councils , as they are responsible for existing memorials such as war memorials.
” To view the petition , click here .

Kerry Salmon, from Stourport, is calling on Wyre Forest District Council to fund a memorial featuring the names of all the patients who lost their lives to the virus - including her mum Georgina Dixon, who passed away in April, aged 65.
Kerry said: "My mum died from Covid-19 on April 15. The last time we saw her was the week before as she was rushed into hospital because she couldn't breathe.
"She didn’t really have the symptoms – she just had a bad chest which we thought was a chest infection. She hadn’t been out anywhere except for to the doctors.
"I spoke to her on the Saturday and she was fine, but then on Sunday, she deteriorated. They told her she had Covid-19 and took her down to ICU.
"They put her on an oxygen mask and we had a phone call on the Tuesday to say it didn't look good.
"On the Wednesday, Mum took the mask off herself - she couldn't bear it anymore - and that evening, she passed away.
"The Thursday after, they changed the law so that people could go to see their loved ones at the end. It broke my dad's heart.
"My dad caught the virus too but luckily we still have him with us."
Kerry said her mum, who lived in Bewdley, had suffered with underlying health conditions, including polio and asthma.
Georgina was a mum-of-three and had four grandchildren.
Now, her daughter Kerry is campaigning for a plaques to be commissioned to remember those who died to coronavirus, and has set up a Change.org petition which has already attracted more than 130 signatures.
Kerry said: "I want my mum to be remembered, not just as a number, but as a person. She had a family and she had been with my dad for 45 years.
"The families in Wyre Forest need some reassurance that we are going to get a place to go to remember them - whether that's plaques put up on walls or on benches. I've seen similar things done in Wales.
"I'm hoping the council will find it in their hearts to get this done.
"These people deserve to be remembered, but it's also a piece of history. This pandemic will be remembered forever."
According to data from the Office of National Statistics, there had been 113 coronavirus-related deaths in Wyre Forest in the weeks leading up to June 26.
Councillor Graham Ballinger, leader of Wyre Forest District Council said: “The council extends its sympathy to everyone who has lost a family member or friend to Covid-19.
"The district council is not planning to organise a physical memorial to those who have sadly died.
"If there is a desire locally to erect public memorials, the proposal is best considered by town and parish councils, as they are responsible for existing memorials such as war memorials.”
To view the petition, click here.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-09--MP Mark Garnier: Government facing economic problems head on

THIS week saw the announcement from the chancellor on how we are going to kick start the economy .
After three months of lockdown , we need to see demand pick up to ensure we get the so-called V-shaped recovery .
The government has done all it can to help .
I know there are a few gaps and we are still trying to address some of these points .
But getting people out and about , spending money , is key to the recovery .
For us here in Wyre Forest , where we have a significant tourist offering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VAT on the tourist and hospitality sector has been cut to just 5 per cent until January .
This includes B & Bs , hotels and attractions , such as our own West Midland Safari Park .
And to get people spending in restaurants again , there will be a £10 discount , paid for by the government , on food and non-alcoholic drinks .
Across the country , two million jobs will be helped through these measures .
For other businesses , the furlough scheme will end in October .
The reasoning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in jobs that may not be viable in the future .
We need to get people into jobs that will have longer term security as soon as possible .
But for those businesses that are keeping going , they will get an employers ’ bonus of £1,000 per employee .
It is also important to create new jobs and there is a significant package to help the environment , with a £3 billion package to drive investment into eco-friendly home improvements .
This is expected to help boost jobs as people take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their homes - £10,000 for low income households .
This includes £1 billion to decarbonise the public sector .
But we run the risk of a lost generation .
£2 billion has been put aside for the Kickstart Scheme – a programme to create new , government subsidised jobs specifically for 16 to 24 year olds .
Employers can apply for the scheme from next month and there is no cap on the number of places available .
We expect the first wave to be in place by the autumn .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all this is that the government not only recognises there is a problem – and a very big problem at that – but that our economy and jobs market needs an unprecedented amount of help .
The chancellor is not shirking from his responsibilities and given the problems we face , I think we are facing these problems head on .

After three months of lockdown, we need to see demand pick up to ensure we get the so-called V-shaped recovery.
The government has done all it can to help. I know there are a few gaps and we are still trying to address some of these points. But getting people out and about, spending money, is key to the recovery.
For us here in Wyre Forest, where we have a significant tourist offering, the measures proposed are helpful.
VAT on the tourist and hospitality sector has been cut to just 5 per cent until January. This includes B&Bs, hotels and attractions, such as our own West Midland Safari Park.
And to get people spending in restaurants again, there will be a £10 discount, paid for by the government, on food and non-alcoholic drinks. Across the country, two million jobs will be helped through these measures.
For other businesses, the furlough scheme will end in October. The reasoning is that we cannot indefinitely keep people in jobs that may not be viable in the future.
We need to get people into jobs that will have longer term security as soon as possible. But for those businesses that are keeping going, they will get an employers’ bonus of £1,000 per employee.
It is also important to create new jobs and there is a significant package to help the environment, with a £3 billion package to drive investment into eco-friendly home improvements.
This is expected to help boost jobs as people take advantage of the £5,000 grant to invest in their homes - £10,000 for low income households.
This includes £1 billion to decarbonise the public sector.
But we run the risk of a lost generation. £2 billion has been put aside for the Kickstart Scheme – a programme to create new, government subsidised jobs specifically for 16 to 24 year olds. Employers can apply for the scheme from next month and there is no cap on the number of places available. We expect the first wave to be in place by the autumn.
There is more. But what is key to all this is that the government not only recognises there is a problem – and a very big problem at that – but that our economy and jobs market needs an unprecedented amount of help.
The chancellor is not shirking from his responsibilities and given the problems we face, I think we are facing these problems head on.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-09--Camera Club shows off best photographs from the Advertiser and Shuttle

Here are the best from this week 's Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club

As a subscriber, you are shown 80% less display advertising when reading our articles.
Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services.
These adverts enable local businesses to get in front of their target audience – the local community.
It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-09--Free shoutout - tell us about your north Worcestershire fashion business

Are you in the fashion business and looking to get the word out that you are trading again after the @ @ @ @ @ to hear from you .
We want to showcase all the fashion businesses looking to @ @ @ @ @ Send us your details and we will give you a free shoutout in our paper @ @ @ @ @ here to send us your details


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-09--Hours extended at Kidderminster MIU - but not back to 24/7

OPENING times have been extended at Kidderminster 's Minor Injuries Unit , but concerns remain that the service has still not returned to pre-pandemic hours .
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust reduced open times at the 24-hour MIU to 8am until 8pm in March in response to the coronavirus outbreak .
The hours were increased to 8am until 10pm this week , however calls have been made to reinstate the unit as a 24/7 service .
One reader said : `` Kidderminster were promised 24 hours cover when Kidderminster lost its A & E .
If it does not reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctors overnight and at weekends .
`` I think Kidderminster has lost enough after losing A & E . ''
The MIU offers treatment and advice on illnesses and injuries that need attention urgently but are not critical or life threatening .
Former Wyre Forest MP Dr Richard Taylor , who volunteers with the hospital 's League of Friends charity , said : `` The minor injuries unit should certainly be 24 hours .
`` I would like there to be a doctor at Kidderminster for more hours than at present .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Worcestershire Royal and the ambulance service .
`` The hospital is crying out to be better utilised . ''
A spokesman for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said : `` This is part of a phased restoration of services , which is being planned and delivered to best meet the needs of all our patients , while making sure that we have the staff and facilities to respond to any future developments in the Covid-19 outbreak . ''

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust reduced open times at the 24-hour MIU to 8am until 8pm in March in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
The hours were increased to 8am until 10pm this week, however calls have been made to reinstate the unit as a 24/7 service.
One reader said: "Kidderminster were promised 24 hours cover when Kidderminster lost its A&E. If it does not reopen, neither will the out of hours doctors overnight and at weekends.
"I think Kidderminster has lost enough after losing A&E."
The MIU offers treatment and advice on illnesses and injuries that need attention urgently but are not critical or life threatening.
Former Wyre Forest MP Dr Richard Taylor, who volunteers with the hospital's League of Friends charity, said: "The minor injuries unit should certainly be 24 hours.
"I would like there to be a doctor at Kidderminster for more hours than at present.
"It would take the load off of Worcestershire Royal and the ambulance service.
"The hospital is crying out to be better utilised."
A spokesman for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said: "This is part of a phased restoration of services, which is being planned and delivered to best meet the needs of all our patients, while making sure that we have the staff and facilities to respond to any future developments in the Covid-19 outbreak."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-10--New woodland to be created in Bewdley

New woodland to be created in Bewdley

A NEW woodland will see 6,000 trees planted in Bewdley .
Worcestershire County Council has announced plans to create a new woodland area on a nine-acre site near to the council-run Blackstone Picnic Place .
Another woodland will be created on a 155-acre site in the Norton area of Evesham , totalling up to 120,000 new trees .
Council leader Simon Geraghty said : “ Protecting the environment is one of the four key priorities in our ambitious plan for the county , Shaping Worcestershire ’ s Future .
“ Our pledge to plant 150,000 trees will help enhance the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new woodland areas in the county for residents and visitors to enjoy in years to come .
“ We are making this commitment to plant these trees over the next five years on our own land so we can make a positive and tangible difference and play our part in improving the environment .
`` We ’ re really keen for the new woodland areas to become something our residents and our local communities can really become involved in , particularly at the Bewdley site .
`` I hope this inspires other organisations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on land they own so further new woodlands can be created to create a lasting green legacy for future generations.
” Planting is set to start in Bewdley in the autumn .
Other sites are being considered to complement the two sites in other areas of the county to reach the committed target for 150,000 new trees within five years .
The new woodland plans were approved as part of the Council ’ s draft budget for 2020/21 which was approved by full council in February .
Worcestershire County Council will be working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the charity will be supplying the 150,000 trees .
The council ’ s project to create these two woodland sites has been included within the Woodland Trust ’ s proposed plans to celebrate the Queen ’ s Platinum anniversary .
Karl Mitchell , from the trust , said : “ The Woodland Trust is delighted to be involved in this exciting project .
`` Never have our woods and trees been more important than they are today , we must protect what we have and plant many more to expand the UKs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climate change and nature decline .
`` Native trees and woods provide habitats for a huge diversity of plants , animals , fungi and living things , a single mature oak alone supports hundreds of other species .
`` Worcestershire are leading the way and we hope this will encourage others to follow its example , the UK needs millions of new trees every year to help reach the climate change targets , and this can only be achieved by us all working together .
”

Worcestershire County Council has announced plans to create a new woodland area on a nine-acre site near to the council-run Blackstone Picnic Place. Another woodland will be created on a 155-acre site in the Norton area of Evesham, totalling up to 120,000 new trees.
Council leader Simon Geraghty said: “Protecting the environment is one of the four key priorities in our ambitious plan for the county, Shaping Worcestershire’s Future.
“Our pledge to plant 150,000 trees will help enhance the local environment and create at least two new woodland areas in the county for residents and visitors to enjoy in years to come.
“We are making this commitment to plant these trees over the next five years on our own land so we can make a positive and tangible difference and play our part in improving the environment.
"We’re really keen for the new woodland areas to become something our residents and our local communities can really become involved in, particularly at the Bewdley site.
"I hope this inspires other organisations to join us in planting more trees on land they own so further new woodlands can be created to create a lasting green legacy for future generations.”
Planting is set to start in Bewdley in the autumn.
Other sites are being considered to complement the two sites in other areas of the county to reach the committed target for 150,000 new trees within five years.
The new woodland plans were approved as part of the Council’s draft budget for 2020/21 which was approved by full council in February.
Worcestershire County Council will be working with the Woodland Trust on the project and the charity will be supplying the 150,000 trees.
The council’s project to create these two woodland sites has been included within the Woodland Trust’s proposed plans to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum anniversary.
Karl Mitchell, from the trust, said: “The Woodland Trust is delighted to be involved in this exciting project.
"Never have our woods and trees been more important than they are today, we must protect what we have and plant many more to expand the UKs woodland, to help fight back against climate change and nature decline.
"Native trees and woods provide habitats for a huge diversity of plants, animals, fungi and living things, a single mature oak alone supports hundreds of other species.
"Worcestershire are leading the way and we hope this will encourage others to follow its example, the UK needs millions of new trees every year to help reach the climate change targets, and this can only be achieved by us all working together.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-10--How chance encounter saved Stourport woman after family deaths

A STOURPORT woman has told how she was saved from a `` very dark place '' following several family tragedies thanks to a chance encounter at Kidderminster Job Centre .
Kaye Morgan , 64 , suffered multiple bereavements in the space of two devastating years , including several close friends , her partner Allen , who suffered from Alzheimer ’ s disease , and two aunts .
She finally reached breaking point when her 94-year-old mum Margaret died of pneumonia in January 2019 .
In December 2016 , Kaye 's partner Allen passed away at the age of 72 after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she had lost count of the number of times she had broken down in public due to her grief .
“ I just wasn ’ t coping at all well , ” said Kaye .
“ I remember going to the Job Centre in Kidderminster and luckily for me KEMP was having a coffee morning on the same floor .
“ I was in a terrible state .
I could not stop crying but two lovely ladies took me under their wing .
They listened and made me a cup of tea .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That was the day when I knew I had to get some help . ''
Still in tears , Kaye got into her car and drove to KEMP Hospice in Kidderminster .
She said : “ I was then taken into one of the rooms there and I said ‘ I need your help ’ .
Following the death of her father , Wint , in 2008 , Kaye became a carer for her mum Margaret “ A nice lady took my details and sat down with me for a while .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ rolling .
“ It was a huge relief as I felt like I could open up and deal with this .
“ I had 10 appointments over a length of time with lovely Cathy and we really hit it off .
“ She helped me to get things into a bit of perspective and I felt lighter and more equipped to carry on.
” Kay added : “ KEMP came at the right time because I was slipping further into the abyss . ''
“ They got me out of a very dark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be in .
“ It had been a really tough few years due to multiple bereavements .
It was just one crisis after another .
“ It is only looking back now that you think how did I get through all of that ?
But you find the strength from somewhere.
” Kaye is now urging more grieving people across Wyre Forest to reach out to the hospice for help .
• Daughter 's campaign for memorial to Wyre forest coronavirus victims She said : `` I am great advocate for counselling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who I know are struggling , I say maybe you should get some counselling .
“ Some say ‘ Oh no , it ’ s not for me , I don ’ t need it , ' when you know they do for different reasons , as we all go through periods of crisis in our lives .
“ KEMP is a place where light and hope shine as soon as you walk in .
“ You feel how caring the atmosphere is and witness how much love and time is devoted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a resident , a family member or someone like me who needs a lifeline .
“ It is an amazing place run by amazing people .
Where would we be without them ? ''
KEMP ’ s day hospice doors are closed but its services are not .
Call 01562 756000 for more information on the support available .

Kaye Morgan, 64, suffered multiple bereavements in the space of two devastating years, including several close friends, her partner Allen, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, and two aunts.
She finally reached breaking point when her 94-year-old mum Margaret died of pneumonia in January 2019.
In December 2016, Kaye's partner Allen passed away at the age of 72 after suffering from Alzheimer's disease
Kaye said she had lost count of the number of times she had broken down in public due to her grief.
“I just wasn’t coping at all well,” said Kaye. “I remember going to the Job Centre in Kidderminster and luckily for me KEMP was having a coffee morning on the same floor.
“I was in a terrible state. I could not stop crying but two lovely ladies took me under their wing. They listened and made me a cup of tea. I am so grateful to them.
“That was the day when I knew I had to get some help."
Still in tears, Kaye got into her car and drove to KEMP Hospice in Kidderminster.
She said: “I was then taken into one of the rooms there and I said ‘I need your help’.
Following the death of her father, Wint, in 2008, Kaye became a carer for her mum Margaret
“A nice lady took my details and sat down with me for a while. We talked and that started the ball rolling.
“It was a huge relief as I felt like I could open up and deal with this.
“I had 10 appointments over a length of time with lovely Cathy and we really hit it off.
“She helped me to get things into a bit of perspective and I felt lighter and more equipped to carry on.”
Kay added: “KEMP came at the right time because I was slipping further into the abyss."
“They got me out of a very dark place that I didn’t want to be in.
“It had been a really tough few years due to multiple bereavements. It was just one crisis after another.
“It is only looking back now that you think how did I get through all of that? But you find the strength from somewhere.”
Kaye is now urging more grieving people across Wyre Forest to reach out to the hospice for help.
Read more:
She said: "I am great advocate for counselling. Whenever I have conversations with friends who I know are struggling, I say maybe you should get some counselling.
“Some say ‘Oh no, it’s not for me, I don’t need it,' when you know they do for different reasons, as we all go through periods of crisis in our lives.
“KEMP is a place where light and hope shine as soon as you walk in.
“You feel how caring the atmosphere is and witness how much love and time is devoted to everyone who goes there, whether it's a resident, a family member or someone like me who needs a lifeline.
“It is an amazing place run by amazing people. Where would we be without them?"
KEMP’s day hospice doors are closed but its services are not. Call 01562 756000 for more information on the support available.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-10--Wanted Kidderminster man Matthew Lavelle arrested in Liverpool

A WANTED Kidderminster man has been found and arrested after a three-month search .
Police launched a wanted appeal for @ @ @ @ @ he allegedly breached the terms of a restraining order .
A £1,000 reward was offered @ @ @ @ @ the 37-year-old 's arrest .
Lavelle was believed to be in Worcestershire or Merseyside .
@ @ @ @ @ confirmed Lavelle has been located and arrested .
A police spokesman said : `` He @ @ @ @ @ in Liverpool and will now be returned to prison .
`` Thank you to everyone @ @ @ @ @ ''

Police launched a wanted appeal for Matthew Lavelle in April after he allegedly breached the terms of a restraining order.
A £1,000 reward was offered for information that led to the 37-year-old's arrest.
Lavelle was believed to be in Worcestershire or Merseyside.
West Mercia Police has now confirmed Lavelle has been located and arrested.
A police spokesman said: "He (Lavelle) was located in Liverpool and will now be returned to prison.
"Thank you to everyone for sharing our appeal."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-10--Police officer charged over fatal crash on A449 near Stourport

A POLICE officer is set to appear in court charged with causing death by dangerous driving near Stourport .
West Mercia Police constable Jamie Holloway has been charged with causing the death of a 53-year-old man by dangerous driving on May 28 , 2018 .
PC Holloway was responding to an emergency call when the unmarked police car he was driving was involved in a crash with another car on the A449 from Worcester to Stourport .
The driver of that car suffered multiple injuries .
The Shuttle reported at the time that the driver was airlifted to the Queen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suffered no injuries and did not require hospital treatment .
The air ambulance landing near to the scene of the crash in May 2018 .
Photo by Paul Hickey The man sadly died in hospital on June 11 .
The incident was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct ( IOPC ) , which carried out an independent investigation into the events that led to the man 's death .
The IOPC subsequently referred the case to the Crown Prosecution Service ( CPS ) for a charging decision and PC Holloway was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He is set to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday .
West Mercia Police Assistant Chief Constable , Rachel Jones , said : “ Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of the man involved at what continues to be an extremely upsetting and difficult time .
“ As court proceedings are now underway , it would be inappropriate for us to make any further comment regarding the circumstances .
”

West Mercia Police constable Jamie Holloway has been charged with causing the death of a 53-year-old man by dangerous driving on May 28, 2018.
PC Holloway was responding to an emergency call when the unmarked police car he was driving was involved in a crash with another car on the A449 from Worcester to Stourport.
The driver of that car suffered multiple injuries. The Shuttle reported at the time that the driver was airlifted to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, while the officers involved suffered no injuries and did not require hospital treatment.
The air ambulance landing near to the scene of the crash in May 2018. Photo by Paul Hickey
The man sadly died in hospital on June 11.
The incident was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which carried out an independent investigation into the events that led to the man's death.
The IOPC subsequently referred the case to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for a charging decision and PC Holloway was charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
He is set to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
West Mercia Police Assistant Chief Constable, Rachel Jones, said: “Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of the man involved at what continues to be an extremely upsetting and difficult time.
“As court proceedings are now underway, it would be inappropriate for us to make any further comment regarding the circumstances.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--'Superhero' Kidderminster postman starts 12-hour Sion Hill run

A POSTMAN heralded as a “ superhero ” for his daring charity challenges has received the backing of local businesses as he prepares to conquer Sion Hill .
Starting at 6am this Saturday ( July 11 ) , Kidderminster postie Shaun Marshall will run up and down the infamous hill for 12 hours in a bid to raise funds for KEMP Hospice .
After hearing about the ex-Marine ’ s latest endurance challenge , Bepco agreed to match funding donations up to £200 to help him hit his overall target of £1,800 .
Shaun will attempt to run up and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours straight .
Photo from Google Maps It means that for every £1 that is donated by its staff , the Hartlebury-based agricultural machinery manufacturer will match it .
“ What Shaun is attempting is astonishing , ” said Ed Nash , marketing manager at Bepco .
“ If he was doing it for three or four hours , I would say that ’ s impossible but the fact he is doing it for 12 is something else .
“ Being a local resident to Sion Hill , I can appreciate how difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
“ We are match funding donations from staff , so we are hoping to raise at least £400 .
“ A number of our staff have got an emotional connection with the charity as a result of the care that family members have received .
“ Now we have cemented ourselves within the Wyre Forest region , we want to support charities such as KEMP.
” Hewett Recruitment is supporting Shaun ’ s efforts in aid of its 40 @ 40 Challenge , which bids to mark the company ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charities .
The firm will be match funding donations up to £100 for KEMP , while Stourport-based Rotary Creative Group is producing flyers and t-shirts to promote Shaun ’ s upcoming challenge .
“ We always support everything Shaun does , as his wife Lisa works on our team , but this one is extra special , ” said Verity Hudson , strategic marketing executive at Hewett Recruitment .
“ I always call him a superhero as it ’ s incredible what he does for charity .
• How chance encounter saved Stourport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Running up and down Sion hill run for 12 hours non-stop is ridiculous , but for all the right reasons !
“ We ’ re so proud to be supporting him.
” Shaun has been overwhelmed by the support he has received so far and is confident about completing his Hell on Sion Hill 12-hour Challenge .
“ For companies like Bepco and Hewett Recruitment to get involved is brilliant , ” Shaun said .
“ I ’ m a little bit gobsmacked by it all as I ’ m just an ordinary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
“ It will be a challenge , but you just need to get yourself into the right frame of mind and get on with it .
”

Starting at 6am this Saturday (July 11), Kidderminster postie Shaun Marshall will run up and down the infamous hill for 12 hours in a bid to raise funds for KEMP Hospice.
After hearing about the ex-Marine’s latest endurance challenge, Bepco agreed to match funding donations up to £200 to help him hit his overall target of £1,800.
Shaun will attempt to run up and down Sion Hill in Kidderminster for 12 hours straight. Photo from Google Maps
It means that for every £1 that is donated by its staff, the Hartlebury-based agricultural machinery manufacturer will match it.
“What Shaun is attempting is astonishing,” said Ed Nash, marketing manager at Bepco. “If he was doing it for three or four hours, I would say that’s impossible but the fact he is doing it for 12 is something else.
“Being a local resident to Sion Hill, I can appreciate how difficult that will be for that length of time.
“We are match funding donations from staff, so we are hoping to raise at least £400.
“A number of our staff have got an emotional connection with the charity as a result of the care that family members have received.
“Now we have cemented ourselves within the Wyre Forest region, we want to support charities such as KEMP.”
Hewett Recruitment is supporting Shaun’s efforts in aid of its 40@40 Challenge, which bids to mark the company’s 40th anniversary by raising £40,000 for local charities.
The firm will be match funding donations up to £100 for KEMP, while Stourport-based Rotary Creative Group is producing flyers and t-shirts to promote Shaun’s upcoming challenge.
“We always support everything Shaun does, as his wife Lisa works on our team, but this one is extra special,” said Verity Hudson, strategic marketing executive at Hewett Recruitment. “I always call him a superhero as it’s incredible what he does for charity.
Read more:
“Running up and down Sion hill run for 12 hours non-stop is ridiculous, but for all the right reasons!
“We’re so proud to be supporting him.”
Shaun has been overwhelmed by the support he has received so far and is confident about completing his Hell on Sion Hill 12-hour Challenge.
“For companies like Bepco and Hewett Recruitment to get involved is brilliant,” Shaun said. “I’m a little bit gobsmacked by it all as I’m just an ordinary bloke running up and down a hill!
“It will be a challenge, but you just need to get yourself into the right frame of mind and get on with it.”
To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/shaun-marshall14.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--Grants will help Wyre Forest employers to hire apprentices

GRANTS are being made available to support employers in Wyre Forest to recruit an apprentice .
Wyre Forest District Council is launching its Apprenticeship Grant Scheme for the 8th consecutive year in partnership with Kidderminster College to enable local businesses to secure £1,500 towards the cost of an apprentice .
Councillor Fran Oborski , deputy leader at Wyre Forest District Council , said : `` The council is a keen advocate of apprenticeships .
Our partnership with Kidderminster College has been a fruitful one .
`` We are pleased to be running the programme again this year , particularly as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for most in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic .
`` At Wyre Forest District Council , we have employed apprentices for a number of years now and , to give examples , in communications and business administration , we have two employees undertaking apprenticeships in digital marketing and customer service and facilities or property maintenance .
`` They make a significant contribution to our organisation and bring a wealth of new skills and insights .
`` They attend Kidderminster College for a day each week to pursue their studies which are immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Apprenticeship Grant Scheme has supported more than 70 local employers , many of which have continued to employ their apprentice once they completed their programme .
The scheme is open to businesses based in the Wyre Forest district , with up to 200 employees .
The apprentice must live in the district .
Beth Newton , apprenticeships manager from Kidderminster College said : “ Apprenticeships have moved on from what they used to be and are an exciting option for both apprentice and employer .
`` Apprenticeships are really important for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employed at all different levels , from school leavers to people who want to further their careers or change career direction completely .
“ On an apprenticeship programme , individuals receive both on and off the job training which builds up the required knowledge , skills and behaviours that employers are looking for in today ’ s competitive job market .
“ At Kidderminster College , our dedicated apprenticeship team work with over 250 fantastic companies in the area and we offer a range of programmes to suit every business .
`` These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ childcare and hairdressing .
`` There are many enthusiastic and capable young people within our community looking to undertake an apprenticeship this summer so now our message to employees is that is a great time to take action if you are thinking of taking on an apprentice.
” For more information on the apprenticeships available through Kidderminster College , email bnewton @ kidderminster.ac.uk or call 01562 826515 .

Wyre Forest District Council is launching its Apprenticeship Grant Scheme for the 8th consecutive year in partnership with Kidderminster College to enable local businesses to secure £1,500 towards the cost of an apprentice.
Councillor Fran Oborski, deputy leader at Wyre Forest District Council, said: "The council is a keen advocate of apprenticeships. Our partnership with Kidderminster College has been a fruitful one.
"We are pleased to be running the programme again this year, particularly as it has been such a difficult year for most in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
"At Wyre Forest District Council, we have employed apprentices for a number of years now and, to give examples, in communications and business administration, we have two employees undertaking apprenticeships in digital marketing and customer service and facilities or property maintenance.
"They make a significant contribution to our organisation and bring a wealth of new skills and insights.
"They attend Kidderminster College for a day each week to pursue their studies which are immediately translated into the workplace.”
To date, the Apprenticeship Grant Scheme has supported more than 70 local employers, many of which have continued to employ their apprentice once they completed their programme.
The scheme is open to businesses based in the Wyre Forest district, with up to 200 employees. The apprentice must live in the district.
Beth Newton, apprenticeships manager from Kidderminster College said: “Apprenticeships have moved on from what they used to be and are an exciting option for both apprentice and employer.
"Apprenticeships are really important for our future economy and they can be employed at all different levels, from school leavers to people who want to further their careers or change career direction completely.
“On an apprenticeship programme, individuals receive both on and off the job training which builds up the required knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers are looking for in today’s competitive job market.
“At Kidderminster College, our dedicated apprenticeship team work with over 250 fantastic companies in the area and we offer a range of programmes to suit every business.
"These also include construction, motor vehicle, childcare and hairdressing.
"There are many enthusiastic and capable young people within our community looking to undertake an apprenticeship this summer so now our message to employees is that is a great time to take action if you are thinking of taking on an apprentice.”
For more information on the apprenticeships available through Kidderminster College, email bnewton@kidderminster.ac.uk or call 01562 826515.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--Warning to online shoppers about Amazon ‘brushing’ scam

Since Britain went into lockdown the need for online retailers has surged , opening up a gateway for scammers to steal your details .
This is everything you need to know about “ brushing ” scams - and what to do if you think you ’ ve been targeted .
Consumer watchdog Which ?
reported on brushing scams , when an Amazon Prime member got in touch to explain how they had been sent two items they didn ’ t order and hadn ’ t paid for - a carbon monoxide detector and gaming headphones .
When the customer got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told that the account used to purchase the items wasn ’ t theirs , and had been paid for using gift vouchers .
A few days later , the customer received more packages - braids and a screen protector - but this time around refused to accept them .
They called Amazon again , who blocked the suspicious account .
The Amazon Prime member then changed their password and ordered a new credit card , and no more deliveries arrived .
So what was the point in sending these random items to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s the purpose of the scam ?
The scam involves Amazon sellers setting up accounts in a stranger 's name and then sending their products to that unwitting customer .
This account is then used to write up a fake verified review in an attempt to improve their seller ratings .
Which ?
explains , “ In this case , it ’ s likely that the member ’ s name and address had been leaked somewhere.
” Using haveibeenpwned.com , a website that tells you if your data has been part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details of the user who had reached out to them had been involved in at least four breaches .
What to do if you think you ’ re part of a brushing scam If you suddenly received deliveries of parcels from Amazon that you didn ’ t order or pay for , changing your Amazon password and cancelling the card linked to the account is a good first step .
Identity theft is a serious threat - once a scammer has access to your personal information , they can wreck extreme havoc , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You should also report these parcels to Amazon as well , so the company can investigate what ’ s going on .

This is everything you need to know about “brushing” scams - and what to do if you think you’ve been targeted.
What is a ‘brushing’ scam?
Consumer watchdog Which? reported on brushing scams, when an Amazon Prime member got in touch to explain how they had been sent two items they didn’t order and hadn’t paid for - a carbon monoxide detector and gaming headphones.
When the customer got in touch with Amazon, they were told that the account used to purchase the items wasn’t theirs, and had been paid for using gift vouchers.
A few days later, the customer received more packages - braids and a screen protector - but this time around refused to accept them. They called Amazon again, who blocked the suspicious account.
The Amazon Prime member then changed their password and ordered a new credit card, and no more deliveries arrived.
So what was the point in sending these random items to a person in the first place?
What’s the purpose of the scam?
The scam involves Amazon sellers setting up accounts in a stranger's name and then sending their products to that unwitting customer.
This account is then used to write up a fake verified review in an attempt to improve their seller ratings.
Which? explains, “In this case, it’s likely that the member’s name and address had been leaked somewhere.”
Using haveibeenpwned.com, a website that tells you if your data has been part of a breach, Which? discovered that details of the user who had reached out to them had been involved in at least four breaches.
What to do if you think you’re part of a brushing scam
If you suddenly received deliveries of parcels from Amazon that you didn’t order or pay for, changing your Amazon password and cancelling the card linked to the account is a good first step.
Identity theft is a serious threat - once a scammer has access to your personal information, they can wreck extreme havoc, including leaving you in major debt.
You should also report these parcels to Amazon as well, so the company can investigate what’s going on.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--West Midlands ambulance pandemic heroes celebrated in new documentary

THE dedication and bravery of staff at West Midlands Ambulance Service during the height of the coronavirus pandemic is set to be revealed in a new documentary .
West Midlands Ambulance Service saw calls to its 999 and 111 number rocket by 400 % during the peak of the crisis , with students and volunteers drafted in to help with the enormous surge in demand .
Now , a Channel 4 documentary will capture the extraordinary lengths that West Midlands Ambulance Service went to , to ensure it was able to deal with the biggest challenge it has ever faced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be broadcast over the next three Mondays at 9pm .
Filmed across three weeks , the series captures the daily decisions being made to make sure ambulances could continue to provide urgent medical care to the West Midlands and tells the stories of some of the staff as they deal with the enormity of the situation faced by the entire Trust .
Anthony Marsh , chief executive of the trust , said : “ Allowing Channel 4 access to WMAS enables us to show the extraordinary lengths that staff in every part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet the challenge of coronavirus head on .
I am immensely proud of the work my staff did and continue to do , every single day .
“ The series shows first-hand how amazing they all are and the efforts they went to keep patients safe and save lives despite some of the most difficult conditions we have ever faced .
“ I am immensely proud of the way every single person within the Trust played a vital role in our response and how those efforts saved lives every single day.
” Pete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & TV said : “ We would like to thank all of the incredible staff who were filmed and those who have kindly allowed us to tell their stories .
“ This series gives those at home the chance to understand more about the excellent work that went on behind the scenes to respond to the global pandemic.
” Fozia Khan , commissioning editor at Channel 4 , said : “ We are very grateful to West Midlands Ambulance Service for giving us this privileged access to document their incredible work and show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at this most challenging of times.
” Paramedics : Britain ’ s Lifesavers begins on Monday , July 13 at 9pm on Channel 4 .

West Midlands Ambulance Service saw calls to its 999 and 111 number rocket by 400% during the peak of the crisis, with students and volunteers drafted in to help with the enormous surge in demand.
Now, a Channel 4 documentary will capture the extraordinary lengths that West Midlands Ambulance Service went to, to ensure it was able to deal with the biggest challenge it has ever faced.
Paramedics: Britain’s Lifesavers will be broadcast over the next three Mondays at 9pm.
Filmed across three weeks, the series captures the daily decisions being made to make sure ambulances could continue to provide urgent medical care to the West Midlands and tells the stories of some of the staff as they deal with the enormity of the situation faced by the entire Trust.
Anthony Marsh, chief executive of the trust, said: “Allowing Channel 4 access to WMAS enables us to show the extraordinary lengths that staff in every part of our organisation went to, to meet the challenge of coronavirus head on. I am immensely proud of the work my staff did and continue to do, every single day.
“The series shows first-hand how amazing they all are and the efforts they went to keep patients safe and save lives despite some of the most difficult conditions we have ever faced.
“I am immensely proud of the way every single person within the Trust played a vital role in our response and how those efforts saved lives every single day.”
Pete Wallis-Tayler, series editor from Dragonfly Film & TV said: “We would like to thank all of the incredible staff who were filmed and those who have kindly allowed us to tell their stories.
“This series gives those at home the chance to understand more about the excellent work that went on behind the scenes to respond to the global pandemic.”
Fozia Khan, commissioning editor at Channel 4, said: “We are very grateful to West Midlands Ambulance Service for giving us this privileged access to document their incredible work and show our viewers the reality of their jobs at this most challenging of times.”
Paramedics: Britain’s Lifesavers begins on Monday, July 13 at 9pm on Channel 4.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--Warning after tyre smashed into lorry en route to Kidderminster

HIGHWAYS England is urging drivers to check their vehicles before setting off on the motorway after a runaway tyre smashed into a HGV travelling towards Kidderminster .
The lorry was on the M42 on its way to Kidderminster on May 21 when the wheel crashed into the front of the vehicle , causing more than £2,500 worth of damage .
Barry Proctor , whose haulage company owns the lorry , said : `` The runaway wheel suddenly appeared on the carriageway and as a vehicle swerved to avoid it , the wheel crashed into the front of our vehicle causing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If that wheel had hit a car rather than one of my lorries we would be talking about a fatality today.
” Barry Proctor is backing calls from Highways England for drivers to check their vehicles before they travel Barry is backing calls from Highways England for road users to make sure they carry out simple safety checks on their vehicles and loads before any journey , particularly as the easing of lockdown restrictions has seen the start of staycation getaways .
Highways England 's head of road safety , Richard Leonard , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roads to be as safe as possible and for everyone to enjoy summer safely – but drivers need to play their part to make that happen .
“ A brief walk-around and carrying out a few simple safety checks before setting off on tyres , oil , water , lights and fuel could prevent a frustrating breakdown on the journey or something far more serious happening .
“ With many vehicles not having been used for many weeks during lockdown or even over the winter , it is crucial that drivers are confident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Recent figures released by Highways England have shown that more than 46,000 items were found on the nation ’ s motorways and major A roads over just 10 months , including a washing machine , sofa , king size mattress , double-glazed door , garden sheds and a ship ’ s mast .
As well as checking loads are secure , drivers are urged to : • Check tyres : prior to setting off on a long/significant journey , check your tyre pressures are suitable for the load and the condition of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Look out for cuts or wear and make sure the tyres have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm , which is the legal limit • Check engine oil : use your dipstick to check oil regularly and before any long journey , and top up if needed .
Take your car back to the garage if you ’ re topping up more than usual • Check water : to ensure you have good visibility , always keep your screen wash topped up so you can clear debris or dirt off your windscreen • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hazard lights , headlights , fog lights , reverse lights or brake lights are not functioning properly , you are putting yourself and your family at risk .
In addition , light malfunctions can be a reason for your vehicle to fail its MoT • Check fuel : before setting out , check your fuel levels and make sure you have enough to get to your destination

The lorry was on the M42 on its way to Kidderminster on May 21 when the wheel crashed into the front of the vehicle, causing more than £2,500 worth of damage.
Barry Proctor, whose haulage company owns the lorry, said: "The runaway wheel suddenly appeared on the carriageway and as a vehicle swerved to avoid it, the wheel crashed into the front of our vehicle causing damage in excess of £2,500.
"If that wheel had hit a car rather than one of my lorries we would be talking about a fatality today.”
Barry Proctor is backing calls from Highways England for drivers to check their vehicles before they travel
Barry is backing calls from Highways England for road users to make sure they carry out simple safety checks on their vehicles and loads before any journey, particularly as the easing of lockdown restrictions has seen the start of staycation getaways.
Highways England's head of road safety, Richard Leonard, said: “We always want our roads to be as safe as possible and for everyone to enjoy summer safely – but drivers need to play their part to make that happen.
“A brief walk-around and carrying out a few simple safety checks before setting off on tyres, oil, water, lights and fuel could prevent a frustrating breakdown on the journey or something far more serious happening.
“With many vehicles not having been used for many weeks during lockdown or even over the winter, it is crucial that drivers are confident their vehicles are safe and loads secure.”
Recent figures released by Highways England have shown that more than 46,000 items were found on the nation’s motorways and major A roads over just 10 months, including a washing machine, sofa, king size mattress, double-glazed door, garden sheds and a ship’s mast.
As well as checking loads are secure, drivers are urged to:
• Check tyres: prior to setting off on a long/significant journey, check your tyre pressures are suitable for the load and the condition of your tyres, including the spare. Look out for cuts or wear and make sure the tyres have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, which is the legal limit
• Check engine oil: use your dipstick to check oil regularly and before any long journey, and top up if needed. Take your car back to the garage if you’re topping up more than usual
• Check water: to ensure you have good visibility, always keep your screen wash topped up so you can clear debris or dirt off your windscreen
• Check lights: if your indicators, hazard lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights or brake lights are not functioning properly, you are putting yourself and your family at risk. In addition, light malfunctions can be a reason for your vehicle to fail its MoT
• Check fuel: before setting out, check your fuel levels and make sure you have enough to get to your destination


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--Kidderminster Harriers bring Maxwell back for new season

Kidderminster Harriers have signed Luke Maxwell back to the club on a contract for the new season .
Maxwell is a familiar face at Aggborough , he is graduate of the club 's academy and made his first team debut in 2014 before his performances alerted the attention of Birmingham City who swooped for his signature .
He flourished in midfield at Harriers before further honing his skills in defence while at St Andrew ’ s during three years on the books with Blues .
During that time , he picked up further first-team experience with Grimsby Town , Gateshead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a permanent basis in 2019 .
Maxwell spent part of last season on loan with Gloucester City in National League North but returns to Aggborough ready to help boss Russ Penn and the team compete in 2020/21 .
Luke Maxwell said : “ It ’ s good to be back playing for this club – it ’ s my hometown club and where I ’ ve played my most enjoyable football .
“ This is perfect for me .
I ’ ve lived here all my life and I ’ ve played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know what he ’ s all about , and I ’ m looking forward to enjoying my football again – there isn ’ t a better place for me to be doing it.
” He has joined the club on a one-year deal , subject to FA confirmation .

Maxwell is a familiar face at Aggborough, he is graduate of the club's academy and made his first team debut in 2014 before his performances alerted the attention of Birmingham City who swooped for his signature.
He flourished in midfield at Harriers before further honing his skills in defence while at St Andrew’s during three years on the books with Blues.
During that time, he picked up further first-team experience with Grimsby Town, Gateshead and Solihull Moors before joining the latter on a permanent basis in 2019.
Maxwell spent part of last season on loan with Gloucester City in National League North but returns to Aggborough ready to help boss Russ Penn and the team compete in 2020/21.
Luke Maxwell said: “It’s good to be back playing for this club – it’s my hometown club and where I’ve played my most enjoyable football.
“This is perfect for me. I’ve lived here all my life and I’ve played with the gaffer at Gateshead. I know what he’s all about, and I’m looking forward to enjoying my football again – there isn’t a better place for me to be doing it.”
He has joined the club on a one-year deal, subject to FA confirmation.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--Here's how you could win a year's supply of KFC

KFC lovers unite as the fast food chain has launched a new competition - and the prize is a year ’ s worth of chicken .
KFC says it is looking for the company ’ s biggest fan to be honoured in its Superfan Hall of Fame .
How can I enter the competition ?
When launching the competition , KFC asked those looking to apply , `` Have you ever penned a letter of love to the red , white and gold ( en drumsticks ) ?
Did your heart break when KFC closed its doors during lockdown ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( questionable ) homemade fried chicken ?
Or maybe you 've even collected every KFC artefact since the first UK restaurant opened its doors in 1965 ?
If this is you , we want to know . ''
Comedian Bash the Entertainer is helping to launch the competition , and says that people can show their love in any way they like , explaining , `` Write a poem , write a song , write a rap , or even a dance . ''
KFC notes that `` there are no limits to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , golden chicken ... be as creative as possible ; whether it 's a poem , a short video or a selfie in the drive-thru , the choice is yours .
No entry is too big nor too small in the Colonel 's eyes . ''
To enter , visit KFC ’ s Facebook page and leave a comment proving that you are the chain ’ s ultimate fan .
Not only will the lucky winner receive a year 's supply of KFC and a spot in the Hall of Fame , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ KFC bucket with a picture of their face on it .
When is the closing date ?
Entry to the competition closes on 14 July .
KFC has now opened its doors to dine-in customers in England as lockdown measures are relaxed , with a number of safety measures now in place , including hand sanitiser , capacity limits and Perspex screens .

KFC says it is looking for the company’s biggest fan to be honoured in its Superfan Hall of Fame.
How can I enter the competition?
When launching the competition, KFC asked those looking to apply, "Have you ever penned a letter of love to the red, white and gold(en drumsticks)? Did your heart break when KFC closed its doors during lockdown... only to drown your sorrows in some (questionable) homemade fried chicken? Or maybe you've even collected every KFC artefact since the first UK restaurant opened its doors in 1965? If this is you, we want to know."
Comedian Bash the Entertainer is helping to launch the competition, and says that people can show their love in any way they like, explaining, "Write a poem, write a song, write a rap, or even a dance."
KFC notes that "there are no limits to prove your love for KFC's crispy, golden chicken... be as creative as possible; whether it's a poem, a short video or a selfie in the drive-thru, the choice is yours. No entry is too big nor too small in the Colonel's eyes."
To enter, visit KFC’s Facebook page and leave a comment proving that you are the chain’s ultimate fan.
What will I win?
Not only will the lucky winner receive a year's supply of KFC and a spot in the Hall of Fame, they will also win a specially made ceramic KFC bucket with a picture of their face on it.
When is the closing date?
Entry to the competition closes on 14 July.
Is KFC open?
KFC has now opened its doors to dine-in customers in England as lockdown measures are relaxed, with a number of safety measures now in place, including hand sanitiser, capacity limits and Perspex screens.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-11--NASA spots Comet NEOWISE - how to see it in the UK

A recently identified comet has suddenly become visible to the unaided eye .
Comet Neowise , discovered in late March by a space telescope , is going to be visible from anywhere in the UK for the rest of July .
Formally named C/2020 F3 , the comet was first spotted by the NEOWISE space telescope on March 27 and will reach its closest point to Earth on July 23 .
It is best viewed at about 2.30am in the north-east sky anywhere in the country .
The comet survived its closest approach to the sun late last week and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Earth before it is expected to return to the outer solar system , according to NASA .
The space agency said the comet has become one of the few “ naked-eye comets ” of the 21st century after it “ suddenly ” became visible this week .
“ Word spread quickly , and the comet has already been photographed behind many famous sites and cities around the globe , ” NASA said in the caption of a photo of Comet NEOWISE passing over Lebanon on Sunday .
Although the future brightness of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there ’ s still a chance it may break apart and therefore dim , NASA said the comet is likely to continue to be visible in the early morning sky this week and in the early evening sky next week .
For the best chance of seeing it you should find a relatively clear area with low light pollution and few buildings or trees blocking the view .
It is currently showing just below and to the lower left of the bright star Capella in the constellation of Auriga - moving westwards .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ comet will move into Ursa Major and if it remains as bright as it is now then you should see its tail pointing into the Big Dipper .
During its closest approach to Earth the comet will be about 64 million miles away - or about 400 times further away than the Moon .
Comets are `` cosmic snowballs of frozen gases , rock and dust that orbit the Sun '' , leftover from the formation of the solar system , according to NASA .
Their size can range from a few miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but as they orbit closer to the sun , they heat up and spew gases and dust into a glowing head that can be larger than a planet .
As these substances stream off the comet , they form a spectacular gas and dust cloud that tails behind them for millions of miles - and can often be seen from earth with the naked eye .

Comet Neowise, discovered in late March by a space telescope, is going to be visible from anywhere in the UK for the rest of July.
Formally named C/2020 F3, the comet was first spotted by the NEOWISE space telescope on March 27 and will reach its closest point to Earth on July 23.
It is best viewed at about 2.30am in the north-east sky anywhere in the country.
The comet survived its closest approach to the sun late last week and is now making its way closer to Earth before it is expected to return to the outer solar system, according to NASA.
The space agency said the comet has become one of the few “naked-eye comets” of the 21st century after it “suddenly” became visible this week.
“Word spread quickly, and the comet has already been photographed behind many famous sites and cities around the globe,” NASA said in the caption of a photo of Comet NEOWISE passing over Lebanon on Sunday.
Although the future brightness of the comet “remains somewhat uncertain” because there’s still a chance it may break apart and therefore dim, NASA said the comet is likely to continue to be visible in the early morning sky this week and in the early evening sky next week.
For the best chance of seeing it you should find a relatively clear area with low light pollution and few buildings or trees blocking the view.
На следующем витке попробовал чуть ближе сфотографировать самую яркую за последние 7 лет комету C/2020 F3 (NEOWISE).
Довольно хорошо видно ее хвост из космоса, с борта Международной космической станции!#МКС #комета #NEOWISE pic.twitter.com/zo7INtT01l — Ivan Vagner (@ivan_mks63) July 4, 2020
It is currently showing just below and to the lower left of the bright star Capella in the constellation of Auriga - moving westwards.
By the end of the month the comet will move into Ursa Major and if it remains as bright as it is now then you should see its tail pointing into the Big Dipper.
During its closest approach to Earth the comet will be about 64 million miles away - or about 400 times further away than the Moon.
What is a comet?
Comets are "cosmic snowballs of frozen gases, rock and dust that orbit the Sun", leftover from the formation of the solar system, according to NASA.
Their size can range from a few miles wide to tens of miles wide - but as they orbit closer to the sun, they heat up and spew gases and dust into a glowing head that can be larger than a planet.
As these substances stream off the comet, they form a spectacular gas and dust cloud that tails behind them for millions of miles - and can often be seen from earth with the naked eye.