kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--UK lockdown: Here's when the next review will be

Earlier this month , Boris Johnson unveiled the government ’ s three-phase plan to bring the country out of lockdown , outlining a “ road map for reopening society ” .
The changes announced in England included allowing unlimited amounts of exercise , sunbathing in local parks , outdoors picnics , driving to other destinations for day trips , and permitting one person from different households to meet in a public place , providing a two metre distance is maintained .
However , the new guidance only applies in England , as Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland are adopting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of lockdown .
When is the next lockdown review ?
The government must review lockdown measures every three weeks , with the next update due to take place nine weeks after lockdown began on March 23 .
The last review was held on May 7 , with Mr Johnson making changes to the rules three days later on May 10 .
This means the next review should take place on Thursday , May 28 , with any amendments likely to be enforced a few days later , most likely on June 1 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
The next review will first consider the effects of the changes made at the last review , with any further amendments to be warranted by the current alert level .
The government ’ s current aim is that the next step will be made no earlier than Monday 1 June , subject to it being safe to do so .
The current planning assumption for England is that the second step may include the following measures : Schools could begin to reopen for more children from June 1 , with the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to early years settings , and for Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 to be back in school in smaller sizes , from this point .
If it is safe to do so , non-essential retailers will reopen in phases from June 1 .
The government is due to issue further guidance on how this will be approached , including which businesses will be covered in each phase , along with the timeframes involved .
Cultural and sporting events could be allowed to take place behind closed doors for broadcast , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
More local public transport in urban areas will be reopened , subject to strict measures to limit the risk of infection .
Will visiting family and friends be allowed ?
The government is considering a range of options to help ease social restrictions .
Currently , in England people can meet with one person from a different household in a public place , providing social distancing is maintained , but visiting the homes of family and friends is still not allowed .
However , the government has asked SAGE to examine whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to expand their household group to include another household in the same exclusive group .
The intention of this would be to allow those who are isolated some more social contact , as well as supporting some families to return to work , by permitting the sharing of childcare .
What restrictions are currently in place ?
These are the lockdown measures currently in place across the UK ’ s four nations .
People are still urged to work from home for the `` foreseeable future '' , but those who can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work if their workplaces are open .
Meeting one person from a different household in a public place is allowed , providing they maintain a two metre distance , and people can enjoy unlimited amounts of exercise , along with day trips to other destinations within England .
Visiting and sunbathing in local parks is also allowed , as well as outdoor picnics , providing social distancing guidelines are followed .
As of May 11 , Scotland has abandoned its cap on daily exercise , but Scots have been warned against meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and to avoid sunbathing , picnics and barbecues .
Travel is allowed for exercise , but this should ideally be done close to the home and all unnecessary travel should still be avoided .
The ‘ stay at home ’ message remains , meaning people should not leave their households to visit family members or friends .
Scots have also been urged to wear a face covering , such as a scarf or homemade mask , in busy places where maintaining social distancing is difficult , including on public transport and in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than once a day is now allowed , but should still be done locally and not a significant distance from the home .
The current advice on social distancing and visiting family remains the same , with the only changes being the increase in the amount of exercise and the reopening of garden centres .
Northern Ireland is allowing groups of between four and six people who do not share a household to meet up outdoors , while maintaining social distancing .
Visits to immediate family indoors is also allowed , provided social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exception of those who are shielding .
People can travel up to five kilometres from their home to exercise , while those who have been staying at home under all circumstances can leave their homes for exercise or a drive , providing they avoid contact with other people .
Outdoor spaces and public sports amenities will now start to reopen .

The changes announced in England included allowing unlimited amounts of exercise, sunbathing in local parks, outdoors picnics, driving to other destinations for day trips, and permitting one person from different households to meet in a public place, providing a two metre distance is maintained.
However, the new guidance only applies in England, as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are adopting their own approach to the next phase of lockdown.
When is the next lockdown review?
The government must review lockdown measures every three weeks, with the next update due to take place nine weeks after lockdown began on March 23.
The last review was held on May 7, with Mr Johnson making changes to the rules three days later on May 10.
This means the next review should take place on Thursday, May 28, with any amendments likely to be enforced a few days later, most likely on June 1.
What changes are likely to be made?
The next review will first consider the effects of the changes made at the last review, with any further amendments to be warranted by the current alert level.
The government’s current aim is that the next step will be made no earlier than Monday 1 June, subject to it being safe to do so.
The current planning assumption for England is that the second step may include the following measures:
A phased return for schools
Schools could begin to reopen for more children from June 1, with the government expecting pupils to be able to return to early years settings, and for Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 to be back in school in smaller sizes, from this point.
Opening non-essential retail
If it is safe to do so, non-essential retailers will reopen in phases from June 1.
The government is due to issue further guidance on how this will be approached, including which businesses will be covered in each phase, along with the timeframes involved.
Permitting cultural and sporting events
Cultural and sporting events could be allowed to take place behind closed doors for broadcast, while avoiding the risk of large-scale social contact.
Reopening more local public transport
More local public transport in urban areas will be reopened, subject to strict measures to limit the risk of infection.
Will visiting family and friends be allowed?
The government is considering a range of options to help ease social restrictions.
Currently, in England people can meet with one person from a different household in a public place, providing social distancing is maintained, but visiting the homes of family and friends is still not allowed.
However, the government has asked SAGE to examine whether it can safely change regulations to allow people to expand their household group to include another household in the same exclusive group.
The intention of this would be to allow those who are isolated some more social contact, as well as supporting some families to return to work, by permitting the sharing of childcare.
What restrictions are currently in place?
These are the lockdown measures currently in place across the UK’s four nations.
England
People are still urged to work from home for the "foreseeable future", but those who cannot do so are allowed to travel to work if their workplaces are open.
Meeting one person from a different household in a public place is allowed, providing they maintain a two metre distance, and people can enjoy unlimited amounts of exercise, along with day trips to other destinations within England.
Visiting and sunbathing in local parks is also allowed, as well as outdoor picnics, providing social distancing guidelines are followed.
Scotland
As of May 11, Scotland has abandoned its cap on daily exercise, but Scots have been warned against meeting up in groups at parks or beaches, and to avoid sunbathing, picnics and barbecues.
Travel is allowed for exercise, but this should ideally be done close to the home and all unnecessary travel should still be avoided.
The ‘stay at home’ message remains, meaning people should not leave their households to visit family members or friends.
Scots have also been urged to wear a face covering, such as a scarf or homemade mask, in busy places where maintaining social distancing is difficult, including on public transport and in supermarkets.
Wales
Going outside to exercise more than once a day is now allowed, but should still be done locally and not a significant distance from the home.
The current advice on social distancing and visiting family remains the same, with the only changes being the increase in the amount of exercise and the reopening of garden centres.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is allowing groups of between four and six people who do not share a household to meet up outdoors, while maintaining social distancing.
Visits to immediate family indoors is also allowed, provided social distancing is adhered to, with the exception of those who are shielding.
People can travel up to five kilometres from their home to exercise, while those who have been staying at home under all circumstances can leave their homes for exercise or a drive, providing they avoid contact with other people.
Outdoor spaces and public sports amenities will now start to reopen.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--Bungalow damaged by car fire in Belbroughton

THE front of a bungalow in Belbroughton was damaged after two cars on the driveway caught fire .
Crews were @ @ @ @ @ in the village just after 2.20am this morning ( Friday May 22 ) .
On @ @ @ @ @ were well alight and two hose reel jets were deployed to extinguish the flames .
@ @ @ @ @ was also damaged and crews from Stourbridge , Wyre Forest and Bromsgrove fire stations attended @ @ @ @ @ injured in the blaze .
A spokesperson for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service @ @ @ @ @ 2.20am this morning fire crews from Wyre Forest and Bromsgrove stations attended a fire involving @ @ @ @ @ in Belbroughton near Stourbridge .
`` Both cars were on fire and there was fire @ @ @ @ @ a detached bungalow .
`` The fire was extinguished using two hosereel jets , and @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There were no injuries .
A West Midlands Fire Service crew from Stourbridge @ @ @ @

Crews were sent to the detatched bungalow in the village just after 2.20am this morning (Friday May 22).
On arrival officers found the cars were well alight and two hose reel jets were deployed to extinguish the flames.
The front of the bungalow was also damaged and crews from Stourbridge, Wyre Forest and Bromsgrove fire stations attended the scene.
Nobody was injured in the blaze.
A spokesperson for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: "Shortly after 2.20am this morning fire crews from Wyre Forest and Bromsgrove stations attended a fire involving two cars on a driveway in Belbroughton near Stourbridge.
"Both cars were on fire and there was fire damage to the front of a detached bungalow.
"The fire was extinguished using two hosereel jets, and two breathing apparatuses were used.
"There were no injuries. A West Midlands Fire Service crew from Stourbridge also attended."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--How to sign an online book of remembrance for those who died of Covid-19

An online book of remembrance has been launched for all those who have been living in the UK and died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic .
The book - named Remember Me - was set up by St Paul 's Cathedral in London .
The church has invited people of all faiths , beliefs or none to make a contribution .
Here is what you need to know .
In support of the project , HRH Prince Charles , The Prince of Wales has recorded a video message .
His Royal Highness said : “ This virtual book @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remember ; not just to recall our loss and sorrow , but also to be thankful for everything good that those we have loved brought into our lives , and all that they have given to others.
” When can people make a submission to the book - and how much does it cost ?
From Friday , May 22 , 2020 - family , friends and carers of those who have died can submit , free of charge , the name , photograph and a short message in honour of a deceased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The deceased person must have been living in the UK .
Remember Me will be open for entries for as long as needed .
To launch the project , the choristers of St Paul ’ s Cathedral have recorded a special piece of music to serve as an anthem for the book of remembrance .
It is intended that the Remember Me site will become a physical memorial at the Cathedral .
A spokeman from St Paul 's said the Cathedral have approved designs for a new inner porch in the North transept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will serve as a memorial for all who have died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic .
'Every person is valued and worthy of remembrance' The Dean of St Paul ’ s Cathedral , the Very Reverend David Ison , said : “ For centuries , St Paul 's Cathedral has been a place to remember the personal and national impact of great tragedies , from the losses of war to the devastation of the Grenfell Tower fire .
“ We have heard so many sad stories of those affected by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prayers are with them .
Every person is valued and worthy of remembrance .
“ We are all experiencing the devastating impacts of Covid-19 across the country and beyond .
“ Remember Me is an opportunity to mourn every person we have lost to the effects of this terrible disease , an encouragement to offer compassion and support to those left behind , and an ongoing recognition of the impact of the pandemic on the UK.
” How can I sign the online book ?
Members of the public can register details of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Me at rememberme2020.uk

The book - named Remember Me - was set up by St Paul's Cathedral in London. The church has invited people of all faiths, beliefs or none to make a contribution.
Here is what you need to know.
'Royal support'
In support of the project, HRH Prince Charles, The Prince of Wales has recorded a video message.
His Royal Highness said: “This virtual book of remembrance is here to help us remember; not just to recall our loss and sorrow, but also to be thankful for everything good that those we have loved brought into our lives, and all that they have given to others.”
When can people make a submission to the book - and how much does it cost?
From Friday, May 22, 2020 - family, friends and carers of those who have died can submit, free of charge, the name, photograph and a short message in honour of a deceased person via the Remember Me website.
The deceased person must have been living in the UK.
Remember Me will be open for entries for as long as needed.
Special piece of music recorded
To launch the project, the choristers of St Paul’s Cathedral have recorded a special piece of music to serve as an anthem for the book of remembrance.
It is intended that the Remember Me site will become a physical memorial at the Cathedral.
A spokeman from St Paul's said the Cathedral have approved designs for a new inner porch in the North transept and, subject to funding, it will serve as a memorial for all who have died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
'Every person is valued and worthy of remembrance'
The Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Very Reverend David Ison, said: “For centuries, St Paul's Cathedral has been a place to remember the personal and national impact of great tragedies, from the losses of war to the devastation of the Grenfell Tower fire.
“We have heard so many sad stories of those affected by the pandemic, and all our thoughts and prayers are with them. Every person is valued and worthy of remembrance.
“We are all experiencing the devastating impacts of Covid-19 across the country and beyond.
“Remember Me is an opportunity to mourn every person we have lost to the effects of this terrible disease, an encouragement to offer compassion and support to those left behind, and an ongoing recognition of the impact of the pandemic on the UK.”
How can I sign the online book?
Members of the public can register details of their family member of friend on Remember Me at rememberme2020.uk


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--Spring bank holiday: Here's the Met Office UK weather forecast

Temperatures across some parts of the UK are set to soar to more than 20 degrees during the Spring bank holiday weekend .
Here ’ s what the weather will be like over the bank holiday weekend .
What will the weather be like this weekend ?
This weekend will see a mixture of rain and sunshine throughout the UK .
• Saturday , May 23 : It will be sunny with scattered showers in some areas , accompanied by a peak temperature of 18C in some parts .
• Sunday , May 24 : It will become increasingly cloudy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It will remain warm , with a peak of 18C throughout the day .
• Bank Holiday Monday , May 25 : We will see bright sunshine throughout most of the day in some areas , with highs of 21C .
What is the long-term forecast ?
Looking further ahead until Tuesday , June 2 , the Met Office says : “ The beginning of this period is likely to see a return to more settled conditions , bringing plenty of fine and dry weather , with temperatures recovering to above average.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ could still see some more unsettled conditions at times .
It is likely that there may be some outbreaks of rain moving southwards across the UK , accompanied by light winds .
High pressure could build again , bringing plenty of sunshine , calm conditions and above average temperatures , particularly in the south and east of the UK .
There may still be some cloudier skies and rain in parts of the north and west at times .
The Met Office UK outlook for Wednesday , June 3 , to Wednesday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generally settled conditions should continue into this period , but may we may begin to see the occasional spell of unsettled weather later on .
”

Here’s what the weather will be like over the bank holiday weekend.
What will the weather be like this weekend?
This weekend will see a mixture of rain and sunshine throughout the UK.
Saturday, May 23: It will be sunny with scattered showers in some areas, accompanied by a peak temperature of 18C in some parts.
Sunday, May 24: It will become increasingly cloudy, with patchy rain in the west. It will remain warm, with a peak of 18C throughout the day.
Bank Holiday Monday, May 25: We will see bright sunshine throughout most of the day in some areas, with highs of 21C.
What is the long-term forecast?
Looking further ahead until Tuesday, June 2, the Met Office says: “The beginning of this period is likely to see a return to more settled conditions, bringing plenty of fine and dry weather, with temperatures recovering to above average.”
However, the northwest of Scotland could still see some more unsettled conditions at times.
It is likely that there may be some outbreaks of rain moving southwards across the UK, accompanied by light winds.
High pressure could build again, bringing plenty of sunshine, calm conditions and above average temperatures, particularly in the south and east of the UK.
There may still be some cloudier skies and rain in parts of the north and west at times.
The Met Office UK outlook for Wednesday, June 3, to Wednesday, June 17, adds: “The generally settled conditions should continue into this period, but may we may begin to see the occasional spell of unsettled weather later on.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--Idea for Worcestershire shops to use pavements after lockdown

AN idea being considered in Worcestershire for shops to extend their floorspace into the street to help customers to social distance has been branded `` ridiculous '' by one business owner .
Worcestershire County Council is investigating ways to help local businesses reopen their doors to get the economy moving while also keeping staff and customers safe .
One idea being worked up is for shops to use the pavements to increase their floor space - the intention being that customers can more easily stay at least two metres apart - although the council admits the plans would n't work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposals would be more suitable for areas which are pedestrianised , have wide footpaths , or are on boulevards .
They say it wo n't be suitable for all shopping areas in Worcestershire .
Councillor Alan Amos , cabinet member for Highways , said : “ We need to restore people ’ s freedom to go shopping again .
`` We are discussing the practicalities of using pavements to increase floor space with all the appropriate bodies .
`` Our first priority is people ’ s safety .
We have to make sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ metres social distancing guidance .
`` We will continuing working through this idea and share with businesses when we have finalised all the arrangements.
” One shop owner , who runs businesses in Stourport and Bewdley , said the concept `` is not a solution to social distancing '' .
Jon May , founder of Mooch Gifts and Home , said : `` The idea sounds ridiculous .
In Bewdley , the pavements are n't wide enough to put anything outside , especially when there 's wheelchairs trying to get past .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our area have had to pay to have displays outside their shop - Mrs Chills Ice Cream Parlour for one .
`` Then you have to think about security , people touching stock , which is something we 'll be trying to prevent , and the people that will undoubtedly be queueing outside .
It certainly is n't a solution to social distancing .
`` We have busy high streets and when we reopen , we will end up with queues - we ’ re next door to a busy butchers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do n't think the shops will have the staff to make sure nobody is pinching things outside .
`` Maybe it would work in a pedestrianised area like Worcester , but not in the suburbs .
It certainly would n't work in Bewdley or Stourport . ''

Worcestershire County Council is investigating ways to help local businesses reopen their doors to get the economy moving while also keeping staff and customers safe.
One idea being worked up is for shops to use the pavements to increase their floor space - the intention being that customers can more easily stay at least two metres apart - although the council admits the plans wouldn't work everywhere.
The county council said the proposals would be more suitable for areas which are pedestrianised, have wide footpaths, or are on boulevards. They say it won't be suitable for all shopping areas in Worcestershire.
Councillor Alan Amos, cabinet member for Highways, said: “We need to restore people’s freedom to go shopping again.
"We are discussing the practicalities of using pavements to increase floor space with all the appropriate bodies.
"Our first priority is people’s safety. We have to make sure that everyone can keep to the two metres social distancing guidance.
"We will continuing working through this idea and share with businesses when we have finalised all the arrangements.”
One shop owner, who runs businesses in Stourport and Bewdley, said the concept "is not a solution to social distancing".
Jon May, founder of Mooch Gifts and Home, said: "The idea sounds ridiculous. In Bewdley, the pavements aren't wide enough to put anything outside, especially when there's wheelchairs trying to get past.
"It also seems particularly strange considering businesses in our area have had to pay to have displays outside their shop - Mrs Chills Ice Cream Parlour for one.
"Then you have to think about security, people touching stock, which is something we'll be trying to prevent, and the people that will undoubtedly be queueing outside. It certainly isn't a solution to social distancing.
"We have busy high streets and when we reopen, we will end up with queues - we’re next door to a busy butchers. It just wouldn't work.
"I don't think the shops will have the staff to make sure nobody is pinching things outside.
"Maybe it would work in a pedestrianised area like Worcester, but not in the suburbs. It certainly wouldn't work in Bewdley or Stourport."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--This is when car parking charges go back up in Wyre Forest

DRIVERS will have to pay to park in council-owned car parks across Wyre Forest next month - but NHS and social care staff will still be able to park for free if they display a pass .
Wyre Forest District Council has announced it is reinstating its car parking charges from Monday , June 1 , after suspending fees on March 27 to support key workers during the coronavirus pandemic .
From the start of June , car parking machines will not be in use in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus , so people using the car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mobile phone or by purchasing a season ticket online .
• Dog controls and street drinking - should measures be extended in Wyre Forest ?
In the last week , the council says it has seen an increase in the number of people using its car parks since the government eased lockdown restrictions last Wednesday .
The council says many people are visiting town centres for leisure purposes , either by sitting to enjoy the fresh air , picnicking , sunbathing and angling - in line with more relaxed government guidelines which allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The impact has been particularly noticeable in Bewdley and Stourport , where visitors from outside the district are returning in numbers , despite the fact that many facilities such as restaurants , pubs and even public toilets remain closed .
Wyre Forest Council says the influx of visitors is putting greater demand on council services such as clearing litter and emptying bins .
Cabinet member for operational services Councillor John Thomas said : “ We have waived all parking fees for two months but we feel that , with the gradual easing of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for them to be reintroduced .
“ The income from car parking makes an important contribution to the council ’ s overall financial position and we can not continue to offer free parking , especially as the Government has not given a guarantee that it will cover all losses faced by councils .
“ However , we recognise the efforts and contribution that frontline NHS and social care workers continue to make in the fight against Covid-19 and that ’ s why they will continue to be exempt from charges if they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by their employer .
“ We know that some residents and visitors prefer to pay for parking using cash .
But that just can not happen at this time .
`` It would simply not be safe to allow machines to be used at this time .
We want to minimise the risk for residents and visitors so that they don ’ t have to touch the surfaces other people have touched and we also want to avoid them queuing in close quarters.
” Officers will be enforcing parking charges from June 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff will need to display a pass from their employers to enjoy free parking .
Information on how to pay by telephone or app on your mobile phone is available from the council ’ s website - wyreforestdc.gov.uk/streets-and-parking/parking/cashless-parking .
The simplest way is to download the Just Park app , but this is not compulsory .
Alternatively , regular users could consider buying a season ticket which can be paid for by a Just Park account on its website or through the app .
More information on ticket prices , including how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wyreforestdc.gov.uk/streets-and-parking/parking/season-tickets .
The council is honouring its pledge to extend existing season tickets by three months without charge .
Season ticket holders are asked to contact Just Park about their expiry date at justpark.com .

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


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--Roads closed at Horsefair over Bank Holiday weekend for works

WORKS to improve transport links in the Churchfields area of Kidderminster will see roads closed from this Bank Holiday weekend .
The roadworks are taking place at the Horsefair and Broad Street junction as part of the wider Churchfields Urban Highway Improvement School .
The Worcestershire County Council project started in October to support the delivery of new homes planned for the area .
The scheme aims to improve traffic flow and access in and around the Churchfields area and includes converting part of Churchfields into an A-road , redesigning the gyratory at Horsefair , making Blackwell Street one way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the A456 Ringway roundabout through to Churchfields .
There will also be a dedicated left in left out junction , providing access to St Marys Street off the Ringway .
To allow the works at the Horsefair and Broad Street to progress , full road closures and diversions will be in place over the Bank Holiday weekend .
Road closures and diversions will be in place around the Horsefair in Kidderminster The work is taking place between Friday , May 22 and Tuesday , May 26 .
Roads will be closed around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traffic diverted via Stourbridge Road and Queen Street .

The roadworks are taking place at the Horsefair and Broad Street junction as part of the wider Churchfields Urban Highway Improvement School.
The Worcestershire County Council project started in October to support the delivery of new homes planned for the area.
The scheme aims to improve traffic flow and access in and around the Churchfields area and includes converting part of Churchfields into an A-road, redesigning the gyratory at Horsefair, making Blackwell Street one way and creating a new link road access from the A456 Ringway roundabout through to Churchfields.
There will also be a dedicated left in left out junction, providing access to St Marys Street off the Ringway.
To allow the works at the Horsefair and Broad Street to progress, full road closures and diversions will be in place over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Road closures and diversions will be in place around the Horsefair in Kidderminster
The work is taking place between Friday, May 22 and Tuesday, May 26.
Roads will be closed around the Horsefair during this period, with traffic diverted via Stourbridge Road and Queen Street.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--Wetherspoons confirm how its 875 pubs will operate once lockdown ends

Wetherspoons has unveiled a raft of safety measures of when their pubs reopen after lockdown .
Here is all you need to know .
The pub chain said it will invest £11m to ensure staff and customers are safe before reopening its pubs , which they say could happen 'in or around June ' .
Almost 900 pubs will open when the chain has the official go-ahead from the relevant governments , and will adopt appropriate social distancing measures .
What safety measures are being put in place ?
• Installing protective screens at till points and in some seating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ separate the tables appropriately .
• Providing staff with gloves , masks and protective eyewear , which workers can elect whether to wear them or not .
• There will be an average ten hand sanitiser dispensers around the pub , including at the entrance for customers and staff to use .
'Pay on the app or by credit/debit card where possible' Customers will also be asked to use the Wetherspoon order and pay app , wherever possible , or pay at the bar using a credit/debit card and contactless , although cash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affected , with pubs offering a slightly reduced selection as well as providing sachets of ketchup , mayonnaise and salt instead of the usual condiment bottles .
What will happen to the opening hours ?
While in-store procedures and menus are set to change , the chain have confirmed the opening hours will remain the same .
These are , on average , 8am to midnight from Sunday to Thursday , and 8am to 1am on Friday and Saturday .
What have Wetherspoons said about the changes ?
Wetherspoon chief executive John Hutson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have not confirmed any reopening date for pubs .
“ However , it is important that we are prepared for any announcement .
“ We have spent a number of weeks consulting with staff who work in our pubs , as well as area managers in order to draw up our plans .
“ We have received more than 2,500 suggestions from our staff .
“ The safety of our staff and customers is paramount .
”

Here is all you need to know.
When could Wetherspoons pubs reopen?
The pub chain said it will invest £11m to ensure staff and customers are safe before reopening its pubs, which they say could happen 'in or around June'.
Almost 900 pubs will open when the chain has the official go-ahead from the relevant governments, and will adopt appropriate social distancing measures.
What safety measures are being put in place?
These include:
Installing protective screens at till points and in some seating areas where it is not possible to separate the tables appropriately.
Providing staff with gloves, masks and protective eyewear, which workers can elect whether to wear them or not.
There will be an average ten hand sanitiser dispensers around the pub, including at the entrance for customers and staff to use.
'Pay on the app or by credit/debit card where possible'
Customers will also be asked to use the Wetherspoon order and pay app, wherever possible, or pay at the bar using a credit/debit card and contactless, although cash will be accepted.
Reduced selection on the food menu
Menus will be affected, with pubs offering a slightly reduced selection as well as providing sachets of ketchup, mayonnaise and salt instead of the usual condiment bottles.
What will happen to the opening hours?
While in-store procedures and menus are set to change, the chain have confirmed the opening hours will remain the same. These are, on average, 8am to midnight from Sunday to Thursday, and 8am to 1am on Friday and Saturday.
What have Wetherspoons said about the changes?
Wetherspoon chief executive John Hutson said: “At present the government have not confirmed any reopening date for pubs.
“However, it is important that we are prepared for any announcement.
“We have spent a number of weeks consulting with staff who work in our pubs, as well as area managers in order to draw up our plans.
“We have received more than 2,500 suggestions from our staff.
“The safety of our staff and customers is paramount.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-22--Coronavirus: Death toll in Worcestershire hospitals reaches 270

THE latest figures for coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire hospitals have been announced .
There has been one more death related to coronavirus recorded , bringing the total to 270 .
The latest figures , announced by the NHS today ( May 22 ) , show the death was in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust hospitals , bringing its total to 247 .
There were no further deaths at Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust 's community hospitals , so its total stands at 23 .
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced ( the deaths did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In England , a further 121 people , who tested positive for the Coronavirus ( Covid-19 ) have died , bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 25,387 .
Patients were aged between 41 and 98 years old .
Three of the 121 patients ( aged between 50 and 91 ) had no known underlying health condition .
Their families have been informed .
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards , including Worcester City Impatient Unit , Malvern Community Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital , Pershore Community Hospital , the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove , Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward .
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19 .
They do not include deaths outside hospital , such as those in care homes , prisons , ambulances or in the community .

There has been one more death related to coronavirus recorded, bringing the total to 270.
The latest figures, announced by the NHS today (May 22), show the death was in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust hospitals, bringing its total to 247.
There were no further deaths at Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust's community hospitals, so its total stands at 23.
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced (the deaths did not all happen on the same day).
In England, a further 121 people, who tested positive for the Coronavirus (Covid-19) have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 25,387.
Patients were aged between 41 and 98 years old. Three of the 121 patients (aged between 50 and 91) had no known underlying health condition.
Their families have been informed.
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
The health and care NHS trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards, including Worcester City Impatient Unit, Malvern Community Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital, Pershore Community Hospital, the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove, Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward.
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19. They do not include deaths outside hospital, such as those in care homes, prisons, ambulances or in the community.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--440 Worcestershire patients home after beating coronavirus

MORE than 400 coronavirus patients are back home with their families after beating coronavirus at Worcestershire 's acute hospitals .
The trust which covers Kidderminster Hospital , the Alex and Worcestershire Royal , confirmed a total of 440 people had returned home as of Tuesday , May 19 after receiving treatment for the virus on its wards .
Worcestershire 's first confirmed coronavirus patient - retired Kidderminster Harriers announcer Roger Harris - was discharged at the start of April after he was admitted into the medical high care unit at Worcestershire Royal Hospital on March 10 .
Speaking on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Roger , who is also known as Captain Crazy , expressed his gratitude to the life-saving staff .
He said : `` I did not build my hopes up too much about coming out .
`` My advice is to not give up hope - you must be very positive .
`` My feeling now is of great gratitude to all the staff on the medical high care ward . ''
In April , 101-year-old Keith returned home after two weeks battling the virus at the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch .
Elsewhere @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jones admitted she had `` given up all hope of surviving '' after being rushed to hospital with a temperature of 40 degrees on April 9 and testing positive for the virus two days later .
But on Easter Sunday , the 49-year-old was given the good news that she would be discharged the following day .
She was reunited husband and nine-year-old daughter following 17 days apart , and thanked nurses at Worcestershire Royal for saving her life .
Heart of Worcestershire College teacher Annette Gardner shared final goodbyes with family members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Alex , but after spending 17 days fighting the virus , went on to make a miraculous recovery .
The 58-year-old , from Redditch , was discharged from intensive care on Saturday , April 18 , and said : `` I really want to express how grateful I am to the NHS .
`` They are doing such a wonderful job and they are putting themselves at risk every day . ''
Devoted West Bromwich Albion fan Peter George received intensive care treatment at both the Alex and Worcestershire Royal Hospitals after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Redditch , was even placed into a coma after his vital organs started to fail - but made a full recovery .
Peter thanked his beloved Baggies after a compilation of music associated with the club , made by wife Teresa , prompted Peter to show his first signs of life since going into the coma .
Peter ’ s reaction to the music reached Rob Lake , director of the Albion Foundation , who organised player Chris Brunt , former player Bob Taylor and club boss Slaven Bilić to record a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were being played by the nurses at Peter ’ s bedside .
He eventually emerged from his coma on April 13 and thanked the `` incredible '' NHS staff for helping him make his recovery .
He said : `` A lot of what happened when I was out of it I can ’ t remember and it ’ s a bit hazy at times but the care that I received makes me so proud of our nurses and medical staff .
“ They are just brilliant , and I owe them everything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18 ) , there were 57 patients with coronavirus in Worcestershire hospitals .
Four of them were in intensive care .
Coronavirus survivor 101-year-old Keith with staff at Ward 12 at Alexandra Hospital in Redditch Matthew Hopkins , chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said : “ Our staff across all our hospitals and health and care services in Worcestershire are doing a magnificent job in working to put patients first through one of the most challenging periods in the history of the NHS .
“ This includes frontline staff working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and also those working tirelessly behind the scenes to support them .
“ We are delighted that these patients could be safely discharged home .
“ This is a huge morale boost for our staff who are working day in day out to provide the best possible care for our patients.
” “ It is important that local people do everything they can to reduce the pressure on our hospitals by following the latest social distancing guidance and maintaining scrupulous hand hygiene .
”

The trust which covers Kidderminster Hospital, the Alex and Worcestershire Royal, confirmed a total of 440 people had returned home as of Tuesday, May 19 after receiving treatment for the virus on its wards.
Worcestershire's first confirmed coronavirus patient - retired Kidderminster Harriers announcer Roger Harris - was discharged at the start of April after he was admitted into the medical high care unit at Worcestershire Royal Hospital on March 10.
Speaking on the day he was set to return home, Roger, who is also known as Captain Crazy, expressed his gratitude to the life-saving staff.
Worcestershire's first confirmed coronavirus patient Roger Harris, aka Captain Crazy, leaves hospital
He said: "I did not build my hopes up too much about coming out.
"My advice is to not give up hope - you must be very positive.
"My feeling now is of great gratitude to all the staff on the medical high care ward."
In April, 101-year-old Keith returned home after two weeks battling the virus at the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch.
Elsewhere in Worcestershire, Areley Kings mum Heather Jones admitted she had "given up all hope of surviving" after being rushed to hospital with a temperature of 40 degrees on April 9 and testing positive for the virus two days later.
But on Easter Sunday, the 49-year-old was given the good news that she would be discharged the following day.
She was reunited husband and nine-year-old daughter following 17 days apart, and thanked nurses at Worcestershire Royal for saving her life.
Heart of Worcestershire College teacher Annette Gardner shared final goodbyes with family members before being admitted to intensive care at the Alex, but after spending 17 days fighting the virus, went on to make a miraculous recovery.
The 58-year-old, from Redditch, was discharged from intensive care on Saturday, April 18, and said: "I really want to express how grateful I am to the NHS.
"They are doing such a wonderful job and they are putting themselves at risk every day."
Devoted West Bromwich Albion fan Peter George received intensive care treatment at both the Alex and Worcestershire Royal Hospitals after contracting the virus.
The 65-year-old, from Redditch, was even placed into a coma after his vital organs started to fail - but made a full recovery.
Peter thanked his beloved Baggies after a compilation of music associated with the club, made by wife Teresa, prompted Peter to show his first signs of life since going into the coma.
Peter’s reaction to the music reached Rob Lake, director of the Albion Foundation, who organised player Chris Brunt, former player Bob Taylor and club boss Slaven Bilić to record a message of encouragement. The recorded messages were being played by the nurses at Peter’s bedside.
He eventually emerged from his coma on April 13 and thanked the "incredible" NHS staff for helping him make his recovery.
He said: "A lot of what happened when I was out of it I can’t remember and it’s a bit hazy at times but the care that I received makes me so proud of our nurses and medical staff.
“They are just brilliant, and I owe them everything."
As of Monday (May 18), there were 57 patients with coronavirus in Worcestershire hospitals. Four of them were in intensive care.
Coronavirus survivor 101-year-old Keith with staff at Ward 12 at Alexandra Hospital in Redditch
Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said: “Our staff across all our hospitals and health and care services in Worcestershire are doing a magnificent job in working to put patients first through one of the most challenging periods in the history of the NHS.
“This includes frontline staff working under tremendous pressure looking after coronavirus patients and also those working tirelessly behind the scenes to support them.
“We are delighted that these patients could be safely discharged home.
“This is a huge morale boost for our staff who are working day in day out to provide the best possible care for our patients.”
“It is important that local people do everything they can to reduce the pressure on our hospitals by following the latest social distancing guidance and maintaining scrupulous hand hygiene.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--Kidderminster football star signed by West Brom

A RISING football star from Kidderminster has been signed by West Bromwich Albion at the age of eight .
Fraser Bayliss , who attends St. Catherine ’ s CE Primary School in Kidderminster , is an avid supporter of the Baggies along with his dad Craig .
So when his he was offered the chance to play in the club 's under 9s team , it was a dream come true for the young footballer .
Fraser , of Lea Bank Avenue , has been playing the game he loves since he was two years old , and his parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football the day he took his first step .
He joined the Kidderminster Lions Soccer School at age four , playing for the team in the Stourbridge District Boys League until the end of this season before joining West Brom .
Kidderminster Lions previously became league winners , with Fraser scoring over 95 goals and being awarded players player and managers player of the year .
He has also played in the Arley Kings under 7s in the Stourport Boys League and last season played for Kidderminster Athletic in the under 9s team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age .
During his grass roots football career , Fraser was spotted by scouts from midlands teams but decided to take an offer from the club he has supported all his life .
After being part of the academy for the past 12 months , Fraser signed a contract to join West Brom last week .
Mum Gemma Bayliss said : “ We are so very proud of Fraser ; he works hard at everything he does but from the moment he could walk his passion has been Football .
He lives and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t thank enough all his grass root coaches who have believed in Fraser , supported him and given him the foundation he now has to move forward .
“ Celebrations were due to include a weekend away with the team and their families and being ball boys at a WBA game , unfortunately these have been postponed due to the current Covid-19 restrictions .
“ We are unsure when training will resume but Fraser will be ready to continue the hard work and begin his exciting journey doing what he loves most.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the challenge when football starts back up . ''
Fraser said : “ I love playing football and I am so excited I have the opportunity to play for the team I support , thank you everyone for all your support .
”

Fraser Bayliss, who attends St. Catherine’s CE Primary School in Kidderminster, is an avid supporter of the Baggies along with his dad Craig.
So when his he was offered the chance to play in the club's under 9s team, it was a dream come true for the young footballer.
Fraser, of Lea Bank Avenue, has been playing the game he loves since he was two years old, and his parents say he even ran straight towards a football the day he took his first step.
He joined the Kidderminster Lions Soccer School at age four, playing for the team in the Stourbridge District Boys League until the end of this season before joining West Brom.
Kidderminster Lions previously became league winners, with Fraser scoring over 95 goals and being awarded players player and managers player of the year.
He has also played in the Arley Kings under 7s in the Stourport Boys League and last season played for Kidderminster Athletic in the under 9s team – with players a year above his age.
During his grass roots football career, Fraser was spotted by scouts from midlands teams but decided to take an offer from the club he has supported all his life.
After being part of the academy for the past 12 months, Fraser signed a contract to join West Brom last week.
Mum Gemma Bayliss said: “We are so very proud of Fraser; he works hard at everything he does but from the moment he could walk his passion has been Football. He lives and breathes the game.
“We can’t thank enough all his grass root coaches who have believed in Fraser, supported him and given him the foundation he now has to move forward.
“Celebrations were due to include a weekend away with the team and their families and being ball boys at a WBA game, unfortunately these have been postponed due to the current Covid-19 restrictions.
“We are unsure when training will resume but Fraser will be ready to continue the hard work and begin his exciting journey doing what he loves most.”
"He'll be ready for the challenge when football starts back up."
Fraser said: “I love playing football and I am so excited I have the opportunity to play for the team I support, thank you everyone for all your support.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--Severn Valley Railway launches Adopt an Engine gift packages

TRAIN enthusiasts in Wyre Forest can adopt their very own engine as part of a new gift package launched by the Severn Valley Railway .
The heritage railway has recently set up an online shop to raise money for its Fight Back Fund - launched to combat the loss of income during lockdown - and the Adopt an Engine package is now on sale from £30 .
There are four levels of gift packages - bronze , silver , gold and platinum - and each comes with a selection of exclusive merchandise .
The SVR has included the popular SR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locomotives , thanks to the agreement and generosity of its owners .
Everyone who buys the top level package for the engine will be entered into a prize draw for an once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience at the Severn Valley Railway .
It ’ s not just steam enthusiasts who are catered for - there ’ s also a selection of diesel locomotives available across the Severn Valley Railway fleet including both Class 9 and Class 14 engines .
All proceeds from sales of Adopt an Engine packages and other merchandise will be used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency campaign has already welcomed more than £650,000 to keep it ticking over on a care and maintenance basis during its enforced closure .
The SVR ran its last passenger service on March 15 and closed its associated pubs , cafes and shops .
It has also had to cancel a number of major revenue-generating events , such as the Spring Steam and Diesel Galas , its popular 1940s weekends , and the celebrations that would have been taking place later this month to mark the 50th anniversary of its public train services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an Adopt an Engine package , visit svrshop.co.uk .

The heritage railway has recently set up an online shop to raise money for its Fight Back Fund - launched to combat the loss of income during lockdown - and the Adopt an Engine package is now on sale from £30.
There are four levels of gift packages - bronze, silver, gold and platinum - and each comes with a selection of exclusive merchandise.
The SVR has included the popular SR 34027 Taw Valley amongst its selection of locomotives, thanks to the agreement and generosity of its owners.
Everyone who buys the top level package for the engine will be entered into a prize draw for an once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience at the Severn Valley Railway.
It’s not just steam enthusiasts who are catered for - there’s also a selection of diesel locomotives available across the Severn Valley Railway fleet including both Class 9 and Class 14 engines.
All proceeds from sales of Adopt an Engine packages and other merchandise will be used to support the Fight Back Fund.
The emergency campaign has already welcomed more than £650,000 to keep it ticking over on a care and maintenance basis during its enforced closure.
The SVR ran its last passenger service on March 15 and closed its associated pubs, cafes and shops. It has also had to cancel a number of major revenue-generating events, such as the Spring Steam and Diesel Galas, its popular 1940s weekends, and the celebrations that would have been taking place later this month to mark the 50th anniversary of its public train services.
For more information or to purchase an Adopt an Engine package, visit svrshop.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--Kidderminster gamers attempt Call of Duty 24 hour marathon

A GROUP of gamers from Kidderminster are attempting to play Call of Duty Modern Warfare for 24 hours straight to raise money for the NHS .
Friends Neil Passey , Kyle Bate , Michael Khalsa and Rich Birch will take on the gaming marathon from their separate homes in Kidderminster starting at 9am today ( Saturday , May 23 ) and finishing at the same time on Sunday .
The fundraising challenge will be streamed live on Twitch and Facebook , where the players - aged between 30 and 35 - will be responding to messages through their microphones and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Together .
Neil told The Shuttle : `` It will be tough sitting in front of a screen for 24 hours but I think we all feel good we are raising money for a good cause during the current pandemic .
`` Hopefully more and more people will start to follow when it kicks off and we can raise more for them . ''
He added : `` We are not pro players , so please do not expect anything exceptional in game play .
`` We aim to entertain one another and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chat and talking through our mics in a live party .
`` We also have Time of the Mouth 's lead singer doing a live performance which will also be streamed live on the Facebook group page .
`` This is purely being done for a bit of fun and to show our support for the heroes on the frontline . ''
To watch live on Facebook and to find out more , click here .
To donate online , visit the Just Giving page .

Friends Neil Passey, Kyle Bate, Michael Khalsa and Rich Birch will take on the gaming marathon from their separate homes in Kidderminster starting at 9am today (Saturday, May 23) and finishing at the same time on Sunday.
The fundraising challenge will be streamed live on Twitch and Facebook, where the players - aged between 30 and 35 - will be responding to messages through their microphones and encouraging viewers to donate to NHS Charities Together.
Neil told The Shuttle: "It will be tough sitting in front of a screen for 24 hours but I think we all feel good we are raising money for a good cause during the current pandemic.
"Hopefully more and more people will start to follow when it kicks off and we can raise more for them."
He added: "We are not pro players, so please do not expect anything exceptional in game play.
"We aim to entertain one another and all viewers by reacting in the live chat and talking through our mics in a live party.
"We also have Time of the Mouth's lead singer doing a live performance which will also be streamed live on the Facebook group page.
"This is purely being done for a bit of fun and to show our support for the heroes on the frontline."
To watch live on Facebook and to find out more, click here. To donate online, visit the Just Giving page.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--First Choice and TUI change holiday refunds process - here's why

Travel firms First Choice and TUI have changed their holiday refunds process for customers .
The move comes as the TUI UK and Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham admitted the business has taken a long time to find a system that works when it comes to processing the 'unprecedented volume ' of refunds .
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted more than 900,000 people who booked with First Choice ( which is part of the TUI group ) and TUI .
The travel boss has also apologised to customers for the refund delays .
What is changing for First Choice and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays before June 11 can now access a self-service section on the website to apply for a cash refund , removing the need for them to call customer services .
Other customers with holidays booked up until August 31 are now able to make free amendments to their bookings online until June 30 .
All changes can be made by visiting tui.co.uk or firstchoice.co.uk .
What have TUI said ?
In a lengthy statement , TUI UK & Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham said : “ We know we haven ’ t got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything we can to make things better and we ’ re sorry for the frustration felt by our customers .
“ Taking people on incredible holidays is what we do best , but we ’ ve struggled to get the right systems in place to support our customers now that we can ’ t take them on holiday , especially at the speed of change we ’ ve faced in recent weeks .
“ We want to offer customers greater flexibility with their holiday bookings and simplify the process of requesting a refund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve developed a new system to help customers with cash refund requests and have updated our amendment policies .
“ We recognise the situation around travel this summer remains unclear and there ’ s still a lot of uncertainty around when we will all be able to travel again , and some customers may not wish to pay a final balance with so many unknowns .
“ We are therefore allowing TUI customers with holidays before the end of August the opportunity to amend their holiday for free so they don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new departure date .
“ Customers with a cancelled holiday will now be able to amend their holiday online and take advantage of the 20 per cent booking incentive , or they can keep their refund credit and booking incentive for a later date when they know when and where they would like to travel .
“ And for those customers that would prefer a cash refund , they can now apply via an online form instead of calling our contact centre .
“ Not only will this save our customers time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on our hard-working customer service staff who have been dealing with nearly one million calls every day whilst working from home , compared with 45,000 a day during usual times .
“ We are also constantly growing our virtual homeworking team whilst stores remain closed , so retail customers can speak with advisors about current and future bookings “ We ’ d like to sincerely apologise to our customers impacted by delays to refunds and the length of time it ’ s taken .
“ We really look forward to taking people on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re able to do .
“ We can already see that there is a real appetite for our customers to travel again , with many using our booking incentive for holidays later in the year and next summer .
”

The move comes as the TUI UK and Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham admitted the business has taken a long time to find a system that works when it comes to processing the 'unprecedented volume' of refunds.
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted more than 900,000 people who booked with First Choice (which is part of the TUI group) and TUI.
The travel boss has also apologised to customers for the refund delays.
What is changing for First Choice and TUI customers?
Customers who have cancelled holidays before June 11 can now access a self-service section on the website to apply for a cash refund, removing the need for them to call customer services.
Other customers with holidays booked up until August 31 are now able to make free amendments to their bookings online until June 30.
All changes can be made by visiting tui.co.uk or firstchoice.co.uk.
What have TUI said?
In a lengthy statement, TUI UK & Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham said: “We know we haven’t got it right; we’re doing everything we can to make things better and we’re sorry for the frustration felt by our customers.
“Taking people on incredible holidays is what we do best, but we’ve struggled to get the right systems in place to support our customers now that we can’t take them on holiday, especially at the speed of change we’ve faced in recent weeks.
“We want to offer customers greater flexibility with their holiday bookings and simplify the process of requesting a refund.
“This is why we’ve developed a new system to help customers with cash refund requests and have updated our amendment policies.
“We recognise the situation around travel this summer remains unclear and there’s still a lot of uncertainty around when we will all be able to travel again, and some customers may not wish to pay a final balance with so many unknowns.
“We are therefore allowing TUI customers with holidays before the end of August the opportunity to amend their holiday for free so they don’t have to pay until closer to their new departure date.
“Customers with a cancelled holiday will now be able to amend their holiday online and take advantage of the 20 per cent booking incentive, or they can keep their refund credit and booking incentive for a later date when they know when and where they would like to travel.
“And for those customers that would prefer a cash refund, they can now apply via an online form instead of calling our contact centre.
“Not only will this save our customers time, but it will also ease the pressure on our hard-working customer service staff who have been dealing with nearly one million calls every day whilst working from home, compared with 45,000 a day during usual times.
“We are also constantly growing our virtual homeworking team whilst stores remain closed, so retail customers can speak with advisors about current and future bookings
“We’d like to sincerely apologise to our customers impacted by delays to refunds and the length of time it’s taken.
“We really look forward to taking people on holiday again as soon as we’re able to do.
“We can already see that there is a real appetite for our customers to travel again, with many using our booking incentive for holidays later in the year and next summer.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--Crews tackled large fire in Kidderminster

A blaze broke out just off Lisle Avenue just after 7pm and people were asked to avoid the area to @ @ @ @ @ fire .
According to one eyewitness , 'fireworks ' could be heard whilst firefighters tackled @ @ @ @ @ also advised by the crew to close all doors and windows .

A blaze broke out just off Lisle Avenue just after 7pm and people were asked to avoid the area to allow crews to extinguish the fire.
According to one eyewitness, 'fireworks' could be heard whilst firefighters tackled the blaze.
#Fire at former car dismantlers now storage units in #Kidderminster prevented me walking home along the #staffs&worcs canal this evening pic.twitter.com/OVvkofkltp — jane preece (@h3jwp) May 22, 2020
People were also advised by the crew to close all doors and windows.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--Death notices from this week's Kidderminster Shuttle

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

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-23--7 ways to care for your teeth when you can't see the dentist

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
Taking care of your teeth is always important , but proper dental health is even more important now that dental cleanings may be cancelled due to the coronavirus .
You likely ( and hopefully ) already have the tools needed for basic oral hygiene , like a toothbrush and floss , but maybe you don ’ t know why these tools are necessary or how to make the most out of them .
We spoke to Dr Ada @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the United States and spokesperson for the American Dental Association ( ADA ) , to get an expert ’ s tips for taking care of your teeth at home .
1 .
Get a quality toothbrush—and use it correctly Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes .
Credit : Getty Images / Capuski There are certain non-negotiables when it comes to at-home dental care .
The first one is obvious : A toothbrush .
“ Whether it 's manual or powered , your teeth really do n't care .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it correctly ” , Cooper says .
'When it comes to choosing a brush , be sure it ’ s `` soft . ''
`` Firm '' or even `` medium '' bristles can cause damage to your gums ' .
Make sure you don ’ t scrub vigorously—you want to clean your teeth , but not at the expense of your gums and tooth enamel , which can weaken from too much pressure or friction from improper brushing .
Oral-B recommends you hold the brush at a 45-degree angle from your gums @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This angle helps to get buildup out that ’ s trapped between your gums and your teeth .
Make sure you get the tops and sides of each tooth , focusing on one quadrant of the mouth at a time until you ’ ve eventually covered the whole mouth .
The recommended time you spend as a whole is two minutes or 30 seconds per quadrant .
You should do this at minimum twice a day—once in the morning either before or 30 minutes to an hour after breakfast ( you may end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around your mouth if you brush directly after eating ) and at night , right before bed .
When you ’ re storing your toothbrush , don ’ t routinely put a cover on it , as this will trap moisture in and create a breeding ground for bacteria .
Replace your toothbrush , or the head on an electric model , every three to four months to make sure your bristles are fresh and at the proper strength to do their job .
If you ’ re in the market for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing is the Oral B Pro 3000 , which features a two-minute timer that cues you every 30 seconds to change quadrants .
It also has a visible pressure sensor that lights up red when you bear down too hard to keep you from damaging your teeth and gums .
Get the Oral B Pro 3000 on Amazon for £44.98 Look for a toothpaste with fluoride .
Credit : Getty Images / busracavus The NHS recommends using a toothpaste that includes fluoride , a mineral in your bones and teeth , as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but you should always use one that does contain it ' , Cooper says .
'Fluoride is a natural cavity fighter that helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and fight tooth decay ' .
( Though there ’ s some controversy over the safety of excess fluoride use , the current science supports that it does more good than harm in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash , as long as the products are used as directed and not ingested . )
Depending on certain needs or wants , you may also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ example , you may want a toothpaste that whitens your teeth and removes stains , for which common ingredients include baking soda and hydrogen peroxide .
The best way to learn about the subcategories of toothpaste that may work for you is to speak to your dentist about your concerns .
Find a flossing technique that you can stick to .
Credit : Getty Images / People Images If you ’ ve ever been chided by your dentist for not flossing enough , you ’ re not alone .
But skipping this step @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dental health .
'Brushing and flossing accomplish two different things and that ’ s why they ’ re both essential ' , Cooper says , though she points out the order in which you do them isn ’ t important .
'Flossing before brushing , brushing before flossing , it doesn ’ t matter to your teeth as long as you do both ' .
Brushing removes the plaque and food buildup on your teeth , but flossing—or using another interdental cleaning tool like a water flosser—removes the buildup between your teeth , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you don ’ t mind string floss , stock up on some with the Oral B Glide Dental Floss , which claims to be 'shred-resistant ' , and over 500 reviewers agree that it ’ s great .
Some people prefer to floss with picks , which have pre-strung floss that ’ s less fussy and messy to use .
A pack of DenTek Triple Clean Floss Picks contains 150 fluoride-coated picks that claim to be break-resistant 'even when used on the tightest of teeth . '
For those who really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this one from Waterpik , which uses a thin jet of water in place of floss string to clean between teeth .
Our reviewer was impressed with its sleek design and how easy it was to use even on the first try .
Get the Oral B Satin Tape Dental Floss ( 6 pack ) on Amazon for £7.49 Get the DenTek Triple Clean Floss Picks on Amazon for £9.68 Get the Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser on Amazon for £72.98 4 .
Keep your diet in mind Eat your snack mindfully and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Images / Eva Katalin You know that gorging on sweets is bad for your teeth , but what and how you eat , and the effect it has on your oral hygiene , is more nuanced than that .
'For good dental health , you should carefully choose your meals and your snacks ' , Cooper says .
'Eat a variety of foods from each of the major five food groups ' .
Eating a balanced diet affects your teeth because your body is better equipped to resist infections that could lead to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if you eat too many sugary or carb-loaded foods , you risk breaking down your tooth enamel .
Cooper also recommends that if you ’ re going to eat snacks throughout the day , you don ’ t graze over them .
'Continuously snacking throughout the day can actually increase the likelihood that you ’ ll develop cavities ' , Cooper says .
This is because the bacteria in your mouth break down carbohydrates found in snacks like candy or starches into acid that then causes cavities .
The longer the carbs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acid will be created .
Brushing your teeth or using mouthwash after every snack or meal is unnecessary , but washing your food down with water as you eat and especially after you ’ re done is enough to aid in unwanted cavities .
You may also chew sugar-free gum after eating ( more on that below ) .
5 .
Understand the benefits and limitations of mouthwash Ask your dentist about whether mouthwash is a good option for you .
Credit : Getty Images / Andrey Popov Cooper cautions that mouthwash is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but it can prevent tooth decay , reduce plaque , and prevent the early stages of gum disease .
Bonus : It ’ s a great way to freshen your breath .
As for who should use mouthwash , Cooper says that if you have a healthy mouth , it can be a great adjunct product .
If you 're 65 or older and/or struggle with teeth health , though , mouthwash may camouflage important symptoms without actually treating them .
For example , an infection in the mouth like periodontitis may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal , but you may not notice this if you frequently use a mouthwash that masks the symptom .
The best thing you can do is talk to your dentist if you ’ re interested in incorporating mouthwash into your routine .
6 .
Use a tongue scraper if you want A tongue scraper is not necessary , but you may enjoy using it .
Credit : Getty Images / Andrey Popov Another common dental product is a tongue scraper , which adds a step to your oral health routine—these devices are O-shaped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debris from the surface of your tongue .
However , 'there ’ s no clinical evidence that brushing or scraping your tongue will prevent bad breath or improve chronic bad breath and , in fact , bacteria can grow back just as fast as you remove it ' , Cooper says .
'But having said that , if you like the way your mouth feels after you clean your tongue , keep it up , by all means ' .
You may want to avoid gum if you have restorations like crowns , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Getty Images / Eva Katalin Lastly , Cooper says some patients ask about the benefits and risks of chewing sugarless gum .
'Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum between and following meals can help prevent tooth decay ' , she says .
It helps increase saliva , which washes away food and other debris .
'Saliva neutralizes acid that ’ s produced by bacteria in the mouth and it can increase the production of calcium and phosphate , which can help strengthen the tooth enamel ' , Cooper says .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crowns , or braces , chewing gum likely isn ’ t a great option for you as it can get stuck in or break down the restorations , so you should speak to your dentist before you pick up a pack of Extra .
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest deals , product reviews , and more .
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time .

Taking care of your teeth is always important, but proper dental health is even more important now that dental cleanings may be cancelled due to the coronavirus. You likely (and hopefully) already have the tools needed for basic oral hygiene, like a toothbrush and floss, but maybe you don’t know why these tools are necessary or how to make the most out of them. We spoke to Dr Ada Cooper, DMD, a dentist based in the United States and spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA), to get an expert’s tips for taking care of your teeth at home.
1. Get a quality toothbrush—and use it correctly
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Credit: Getty Images / Capuski
There are certain non-negotiables when it comes to at-home dental care. The first one is obvious: A toothbrush. “Whether it's manual or powered, your teeth really don't care. You just need to use it and use it correctly”, Cooper says. 'When it comes to choosing a brush, be sure it’s "soft." "Firm" or even "medium" bristles can cause damage to your gums'.
Make sure you don’t scrub vigorously—you want to clean your teeth, but not at the expense of your gums and tooth enamel, which can weaken from too much pressure or friction from improper brushing. Oral-B recommends you hold the brush at a 45-degree angle from your gums and gently sweep back and forth. This angle helps to get buildup out that’s trapped between your gums and your teeth. Make sure you get the tops and sides of each tooth, focusing on one quadrant of the mouth at a time until you’ve eventually covered the whole mouth. The recommended time you spend as a whole is two minutes or 30 seconds per quadrant. You should do this at minimum twice a day—once in the morning either before or 30 minutes to an hour after breakfast (you may end up brushing enamel-weakening acid from the food around your mouth if you brush directly after eating) and at night, right before bed.
When you’re storing your toothbrush, don’t routinely put a cover on it, as this will trap moisture in and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Replace your toothbrush, or the head on an electric model, every three to four months to make sure your bristles are fresh and at the proper strength to do their job.
If you’re in the market for a new electric toothbrush, our favourite after testing is the Oral B Pro 3000, which features a two-minute timer that cues you every 30 seconds to change quadrants. It also has a visible pressure sensor that lights up red when you bear down too hard to keep you from damaging your teeth and gums.
Get the Oral B Pro 3000 on Amazon for £44.98
2. Use a toothpaste with fluoride
Look for a toothpaste with fluoride. Credit: Getty Images / busracavus
The NHS recommends using a toothpaste that includes fluoride, a mineral in your bones and teeth, as an ingredient. 'Not all toothpaste contains fluoride, but you should always use one that does contain it', Cooper says. 'Fluoride is a natural cavity fighter that helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and fight tooth decay'. (Though there’s some controversy over the safety of excess fluoride use, the current science supports that it does more good than harm in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash, as long as the products are used as directed and not ingested.)
Depending on certain needs or wants, you may also look for other active ingredients. For example, you may want a toothpaste that whitens your teeth and removes stains, for which common ingredients include baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. The best way to learn about the subcategories of toothpaste that may work for you is to speak to your dentist about your concerns.
3. Don’t skimp on flossing
Find a flossing technique that you can stick to. Credit: Getty Images / People Images
If you’ve ever been chided by your dentist for not flossing enough, you’re not alone. But skipping this step on the regular is detrimental to your dental health. 'Brushing and flossing accomplish two different things and that’s why they’re both essential', Cooper says, though she points out the order in which you do them isn’t important. 'Flossing before brushing, brushing before flossing, it doesn’t matter to your teeth as long as you do both'.
Brushing removes the plaque and food buildup on your teeth, but flossing—or using another interdental cleaning tool like a water flosser—removes the buildup between your teeth, where your brush can’t go.
If you don’t mind string floss, stock up on some with the Oral B Glide Dental Floss, which claims to be 'shred-resistant', and over 500 reviewers agree that it’s great.
Some people prefer to floss with picks, which have pre-strung floss that’s less fussy and messy to use. A pack of DenTek Triple Clean Floss Picks contains 150 fluoride-coated picks that claim to be break-resistant 'even when used on the tightest of teeth.'
For those who really dislike flossing, consider a water flosser like this one from Waterpik, which uses a thin jet of water in place of floss string to clean between teeth. Our reviewer was impressed with its sleek design and how easy it was to use even on the first try.
Get the Oral B Satin Tape Dental Floss (6 pack) on Amazon for £7.49
Get the DenTek Triple Clean Floss Picks on Amazon for £9.68
Get the Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser on Amazon for £72.98
4. Keep your diet in mind
Eat your snack mindfully and without savouring it. Credit: Getty Images / Eva Katalin
You know that gorging on sweets is bad for your teeth, but what and how you eat, and the effect it has on your oral hygiene, is more nuanced than that. 'For good dental health, you should carefully choose your meals and your snacks', Cooper says. 'Eat a variety of foods from each of the major five food groups'. Eating a balanced diet affects your teeth because your body is better equipped to resist infections that could lead to gum disease. And, more directly, if you eat too many sugary or carb-loaded foods, you risk breaking down your tooth enamel.
Cooper also recommends that if you’re going to eat snacks throughout the day, you don’t graze over them. 'Continuously snacking throughout the day can actually increase the likelihood that you’ll develop cavities', Cooper says. This is because the bacteria in your mouth break down carbohydrates found in snacks like candy or starches into acid that then causes cavities. The longer the carbs sit in your mouth, the more acid will be created. Brushing your teeth or using mouthwash after every snack or meal is unnecessary, but washing your food down with water as you eat and especially after you’re done is enough to aid in unwanted cavities. You may also chew sugar-free gum after eating (more on that below).
5. Understand the benefits and limitations of mouthwash
Ask your dentist about whether mouthwash is a good option for you. Credit: Getty Images / Andrey Popov
Cooper cautions that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing or flossing, but it can prevent tooth decay, reduce plaque, and prevent the early stages of gum disease. Bonus: It’s a great way to freshen your breath.
As for who should use mouthwash, Cooper says that if you have a healthy mouth, it can be a great adjunct product. If you're 65 or older and/or struggle with teeth health, though, mouthwash may camouflage important symptoms without actually treating them. For example, an infection in the mouth like periodontitis may cause your breath to smell stronger than normal, but you may not notice this if you frequently use a mouthwash that masks the symptom. The best thing you can do is talk to your dentist if you’re interested in incorporating mouthwash into your routine.
6. Use a tongue scraper if you want
A tongue scraper is not necessary, but you may enjoy using it. Credit: Getty Images / Andrey Popov
Another common dental product is a tongue scraper, which adds a step to your oral health routine—these devices are O-shaped plastic or U-shaped metal tools that remove debris from the surface of your tongue. However, 'there’s no clinical evidence that brushing or scraping your tongue will prevent bad breath or improve chronic bad breath and, in fact, bacteria can grow back just as fast as you remove it', Cooper says. 'But having said that, if you like the way your mouth feels after you clean your tongue, keep it up, by all means'.
7. Chew sugarless gum—if your dentist approves
You may want to avoid gum if you have restorations like crowns, bridges, or braces. Credit: Getty Images / Eva Katalin
Lastly, Cooper says some patients ask about the benefits and risks of chewing sugarless gum. 'Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum between and following meals can help prevent tooth decay', she says. It helps increase saliva, which washes away food and other debris. 'Saliva neutralizes acid that’s produced by bacteria in the mouth and it can increase the production of calcium and phosphate, which can help strengthen the tooth enamel', Cooper says.
That said, if you have bridges, crowns, or braces, chewing gum likely isn’t a great option for you as it can get stuck in or break down the restorations, so you should speak to your dentist before you pick up a pack of Extra.
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, product reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.