kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-05--Kind William, 11, braves the shave for Macmillan Cancer Support

A KIND-hearted youngster has braved the shave to raise more than £400 for Macmillan Cancer Support in a quest to help others during lockdown .
William Picken had his dark locks shaved off on Saturday ( May 2 ) as part of the national Brave the Shave fundraising appeal .
The 11-year-old smashed his £150 fundraising target by raising £495 , which will be donated to the charity to help continue its vital work helping people living with cancer .
William 's mum Jane said the shave was entirely the youngster 's own idea , as he wanted to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
She said : `` His cousin did it so he started asking me questions about it .
It was completely his idea , he said 'Mummy , I just want to help people ' .
`` I told him how Macmillan help people so he went for it . ''
Jane shaved her son 's hair at their home in Rushock , with before and after photos showing William 's dramatic transformation .
Jane added : `` He was an absolute star .
It went well , it was a bit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was surprised how easy it was .
`` I am so proud of him . ''
His fundraising page is still open for donations at bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/william-picken .
William 's school , West Acre Middle School in Droitwich , has also paid tribute to William 's efforts , with staff describing him as an `` absolute credit '' to the school .

William Picken had his dark locks shaved off on Saturday (May 2) as part of the national Brave the Shave fundraising appeal.
The 11-year-old smashed his £150 fundraising target by raising £495, which will be donated to the charity to help continue its vital work helping people living with cancer.
William's mum Jane said the shave was entirely the youngster's own idea, as he wanted to do something to help others during his free time.
She said: "His cousin did it so he started asking me questions about it. It was completely his idea, he said 'Mummy, I just want to help people'.
"I told him how Macmillan help people so he went for it."
Jane shaved her son's hair at their home in Rushock, with before and after photos showing William's dramatic transformation.
Jane added: "He was an absolute star. It went well, it was a bit scary but once I got started I was surprised how easy it was.
"I am so proud of him."
His fundraising page is still open for donations at bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/william-picken.
William's school, West Acre Middle School in Droitwich, has also paid tribute to William's efforts, with staff describing him as an "absolute credit" to the school.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-05--Mark Garnier reflects on 10 years as Wyre Forest MP

THIS week marks the 10th anniversary of my election as Wyre Forest ’ s MP , and of a new government after 13 years of a Labour administration .
Who could possibly have predicted what would have unfolded over the following decade ?
This week , under the five-year cycle , should have seen a general election – one that might have heralded my third term as your MP .
Instead , we are now in my fifth term as Wyre Forest ’ s MP , on our third prime minister , out of the EU , and locked down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ didn ’ t see any of that coming .
Politics has been astonishing .
The once hugely influential Liberal Democrats are a diminished force , replaced as the third party by Scottish Nationalists .
The Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party , for a year or two , became a significant player in the power of the government .
Labour has tacked far left but are trying to get back to the centre again .
And the Conservatives , in their fourth election in power , secured an astonishing victory when history suggests this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government .
I suspect the overall narrative of the last 10 years will be one of austerity and Brexit .
Of course , austerity was first introduced by the Labour chancellor Alistair Darling as the only response to the catastrophic position of our public finances after the financial crisis .
He recognised , back in 2009 , that borrowing £1 for every £4 the government spends is simply unsustainable .
He was right .
But austerity – or to put it a better way : fiscal prudence – is important .
Not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next generation with huge public borrowing , it is only because of managing our public finances that we can offer the unprecedented support to the economy and the NHS , needed because of the Covid-19 lockdown .
Had this crisis happened in 2010 , a similar response would have bankrupted the government , or the response would have been necessarily weaker .
But what for the next decade ?
Will the lockdown have a permanent effect on our economy ?
Will we see a new , societal approach to the work/life balance ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ look to be a kinder , less competitive society that casts more than a glancing eye to our environment ?
Who knows , and it is a fool ’ s errand to try to guess .
But coronavirus will act as a catalyst for some serious reflection .

Who could possibly have predicted what would have unfolded over the following decade?
This week, under the five-year cycle, should have seen a general election – one that might have heralded my third term as your MP.
Instead, we are now in my fifth term as Wyre Forest’s MP, on our third prime minister, out of the EU, and locked down under a global viral pandemic. I didn’t see any of that coming.
Politics has been astonishing. The once hugely influential Liberal Democrats are a diminished force, replaced as the third party by Scottish Nationalists.
The Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party, for a year or two, became a significant player in the power of the government.
Labour has tacked far left but are trying to get back to the centre again.
And the Conservatives, in their fourth election in power, secured an astonishing victory when history suggests this is all but impossible for a sitting government.
I suspect the overall narrative of the last 10 years will be one of austerity and Brexit. Of course, austerity was first introduced by the Labour chancellor Alistair Darling as the only response to the catastrophic position of our public finances after the financial crisis.
He recognised, back in 2009, that borrowing £1 for every £4 the government spends is simply unsustainable. He was right. But austerity – or to put it a better way: fiscal prudence – is important.
Not only should we try to avoid loading the next generation with huge public borrowing, it is only because of managing our public finances that we can offer the unprecedented support to the economy and the NHS, needed because of the Covid-19 lockdown.
Had this crisis happened in 2010, a similar response would have bankrupted the government, or the response would have been necessarily weaker.
But what for the next decade? Will the lockdown have a permanent effect on our economy? Will we see a new, societal approach to the work/life balance? Will we, as I hope, look to be a kinder, less competitive society that casts more than a glancing eye to our environment?
Who knows, and it is a fool’s errand to try to guess. But coronavirus will act as a catalyst for some serious reflection.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-05--NHS 'track and trace' app: What you need to know - and how it works

A new app to show users if they 've come into contact with someone with Covid-19 is being trialled this week .
The NHS app - named Track and Trace - will be rolled out on the Isle of Wight before being released to the rest of the UK , in an attempt to limit the chance of a second wave of infections .
How to use the app Track and Trace can be downloaded onto smartphones , and uses bluetooth technology to figure out whether users have been close enough to an infected person to contract the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ around 56 per cent of the UK population - equivalent to around 80 per cent of smartphone users - will need to use the app in order for it to be effective at slowing the spread of coronavirus .
Transport secretary Grant Shapps told the BBC 's Andrew Marr show that the government will ask everyone in the UK to download it . '
A contribution that all of us can make' At the government 's daily briefing , Cabinet Minister Michael Gove expressed his hope that over half of the 80,000 households @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the app .
`` When it comes to contract tracing , the more people who download the app developed by the NHS the better , '' he said .
`` Knowing this is a contribution that all of us can make to helping to keep our communities and neighbours safe is a very powerful incentive . ''
How does the app work ?
Should a user of the app develop coronavirus symptoms , alerts will be sent to anyone who the infected person came into contact with - theoretically allowing these people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Data is recorded under an anonymous ID , rather than with a name .
Along with extensive testing and other measures , extensive contact tracing has been credited with enabling some countries - such as South Korea - to get outbreaks under control sooner .
Yet , while some see the app as a possible means of easing lockdown , others have expressed concern about the government and third parties being given access to user data .

The NHS app - named Track and Trace - will be rolled out on the Isle of Wight before being released to the rest of the UK, in an attempt to limit the chance of a second wave of infections.
How to use the app
Track and Trace can be downloaded onto smartphones, and uses bluetooth technology to figure out whether users have been close enough to an infected person to contract the virus.
Epidemiologists working with the NHS said that around 56 per cent of the UK population - equivalent to around 80 per cent of smartphone users - will need to use the app in order for it to be effective at slowing the spread of coronavirus.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps told the BBC's Andrew Marr show that the government will ask everyone in the UK to download it.
'A contribution that all of us can make'
At the government's daily briefing, Cabinet Minister Michael Gove expressed his hope that over half of the 80,000 households on the Isle of Wight would download the app.
"When it comes to contract tracing, the more people who download the app developed by the NHS the better," he said.
"Knowing this is a contribution that all of us can make to helping to keep our communities and neighbours safe is a very powerful incentive."
How does the app work?
Should a user of the app develop coronavirus symptoms, alerts will be sent to anyone who the infected person came into contact with - theoretically allowing these people to go into quarantine or get tested.
Data is recorded under an anonymous ID, rather than with a name.
Along with extensive testing and other measures, extensive contact tracing has been credited with enabling some countries - such as South Korea - to get outbreaks under control sooner.
Yet, while some see the app as a possible means of easing lockdown, others have expressed concern about the government and third parties being given access to user data.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-05--PE teacher raises funds for struggling Kidderminster families

A PE teacher at a Kidderminster school is using pedal power to raise hundreds of pounds to buy food for @ @ @ @ @ meet during the Covid-19 pandemic .
Dave Garbett , head of department at Baxter College @ @ @ @ @ for 12 hours on his turbo trainer on Wednesday , May 6th .
He has @ @ @ @ @ , raising more than £700 so far on his Just Giving page .
Mr Garbett @ @ @ @ @ m overwhelmed by the response to this call .
We are a close community and @ @ @ @ @ for one another.
” Baxter College principal Matthew Carpenter praised Mr Garbett for his fundraising @ @ @ @ @ For some of our families facing hardship at this unprecedent time , it will be @ @ @ @ @ or losing their jobs , for others this will be the prolonged impact of being @ @ @ @ @ shops due to shielding.
” Donations can be made at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/mrgindoorride .

Dave Garbett, head of department at Baxter College, hopes to keep pedalling for 12 hours on his turbo trainer on Wednesday, May 6th.
He has already smashed his £200 target, raising more than £700 so far on his Just Giving page.
Mr Garbett said: “I’m overwhelmed by the response to this call. We are a close community and always try to look out for one another.”
Baxter College principal Matthew Carpenter praised Mr Garbett for his fundraising bid, adding: “For some of our families facing hardship at this unprecedent time, it will be because of changes in employment or losing their jobs, for others this will be the prolonged impact of being at home unable to access shops due to shielding.”
Donations can be made at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/mrgindoorride.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-05--Stourport man to run over 1,800 laps of garden path for good causes

A 22-YEAR-OLD man from Stourport will run the equivalent of a marathon in his back garden after his London Marathon dreams were dashed .
Dominic Cooke was all set to run the legendary event last month , which would have been his first ever marathon , to raise money for the Make A Wish Foundation .
But , with the run cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic , Dominic found himself eager to put his training to good use to achieve his goal to raise £2,000 for the charity .
He said : `` I had put in all this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible , I did n't want it to go to waste , I was gutted .
`` I thought about doing it around the town but thought it was best not following the lockdown guidelines , so I decided to it in my garden instead .
`` I have done a lot of work for St Richard 's Hospice .
I wanted to find something new to help .
`` I did n't struggle as a child , but some children really do with illness , so the charity stood out to me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the the Make a Wish Foundation , Dominic is also raising money for the NHS Charities Together to help staff in the fight against Covid-19 .
He has set up two donation pages , one for the Make A Wish Foundation and another for NHS Charities together , to get his total over the line .
Dominic will run 1,833 laps of his garden path when he takes on the challenge , which he will be completing as soon as possible .
He added : `` I did 10 minutes practice the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the strain on my hips and ankles .
`` Hopefully I can get through it ! ''
To donate to Dominic 's fundraising pages , visit justgiving.com/fundraising/dom-cooke1 and justgiving.com/fundraising/dom-cooke2 .

Dominic Cooke was all set to run the legendary event last month, which would have been his first ever marathon, to raise money for the Make A Wish Foundation.
But, with the run cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, Dominic found himself eager to put his training to good use to achieve his goal to raise £2,000 for the charity.
He said: "I had put in all this training to raise as much money as possible, I didn't want it to go to waste, I was gutted.
"I thought about doing it around the town but thought it was best not following the lockdown guidelines, so I decided to it in my garden instead.
"I have done a lot of work for St Richard's Hospice. I wanted to find something new to help.
"I didn't struggle as a child, but some children really do with illness, so the charity stood out to me as one to support."
Along with the the Make a Wish Foundation, Dominic is also raising money for the NHS Charities Together to help staff in the fight against Covid-19.
He has set up two donation pages, one for the Make A Wish Foundation and another for NHS Charities together, to get his total over the line.
Dominic will run 1,833 laps of his garden path when he takes on the challenge, which he will be completing as soon as possible.
He added: "I did 10 minutes practice the other day, I could already feel the strain on my hips and ankles.
"Hopefully I can get through it!"
To donate to Dominic's fundraising pages, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/dom-cooke1 and justgiving.com/fundraising/dom-cooke2.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-05--Amazon Prime, Disney+ and Netflix: 2020 films to watch at home while cinemas are shut

While the lockdown continues across the UK - streaming giants Amazon Prime , Disney+ and Netflix have added a number of new movies which were originally due to premiere in cinemas .
We 've compiled a list of new and upcoming online film releases to keep your lockdown binge-watching fresh .
Here 's what to watch , when it will be released , and how to see it .
Starring Keira Knightley and Jessie Buckley , this comical drama follows a group of feminist protesters who create a plan to disrupt the 1970 Miss World competition .
A mere four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ theatres across the UK , cinemas were forced to close due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The film was released on demand , three months prior to its DVD release date , to compensate .
• Available on demand from : April 15 , 2020 • Available to watch on : YouTube , Amazon Prime , Google Play This adaptation of Jane Austen 's 1815 novel of the same name , is set in Georgian and Regency-era England and follows a young woman , Emma Woodhouse , as she plays the role of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The film stars Anya Taylor-Joy ( Peaky Blinders , Split ) as Emma , Bill Nighy ( Love Actually , Pirates of the Carribean ) as Mr Woodhouse , and comedian Miranda Hart as Miss Bates .
• Available on demand from : March 20 , 2020 • Available to watch on : YouTube , Amazon Prime , Google Play Bloodshot only saw a single week in theatres before lockdown measures forced cinemas to close .
Four days later it was released online , for on-demand home entertainment .
Vin Diesel , stars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who is resurrected by a team of scientists and transformed into the superhero Bloodshot , after he and his wife are murdered .
The film is based on the bestselling comic book of the same name .
• Available on demand from : March 24 , 2020 • Available to watch on : Sky Store , YouTube , Google Play , Amazon Prime This computer-animated fantasy-adventure film produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios , is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike .
Featuring the voices of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follows the adventures of two elven brothers who begin a magical quest to spend one more day with their late father .
This film only had two weeks of theatrical release before cinemas closed , which pales in comparison to the usual six weeks that most largely anticipated films have .
• Available on demand from : May 4 , 2020 • Available to watch on : Sky Store , Amazon Prime Video , Google Play , iTunes This horror film may strike a chord with many of us stuck at home during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ star as a couple who get trapped for several years inside an eerie house in an empty , labyrinthine-like suburban neighbourhood .
The film details their descent into despair , as they continually but unsuccessfully try to escape this surreal reality .
• Available on demand from : March 27 , 2020 • Available to watch on : Amazon Prime , YouTube , Google Play This fantastical film follows the epic journey of Artemis Fowl , a 12-year-old boy genius and criminal mastermind , as he takes on an ancient , underground civilisation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has mysteriously disappeared .
Starring Judy Dench ( Victoria and Abdul , Cats ) Colin Farrel ( In Bruges , The Gentlemen ) and Nonso Anozie ( Game of Thrones ) and directed by Kenneth Branagh , this film is based on Eoin Colfer ’ s popular fantasy novels of the same name .
• Available on demand from : June 12 , 2020 • Available to watch on : Disney+ The original cinema release of this controversial satirical film , which heavily features firearms , already had to be postponed after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US last autumn .
And in 2020 , UK cinemas closed just over a week after its theatrical release date , dramatically cutting down its time in the limelight .
However all is not lost , for you can now watch as twelve strangers avoid being hunted for sport , from the safety and comfort of your home , on Amazon Prime .
• Now available on demand on : Amazon Prime Warner Brothers has followed in the footsteps of Universal Pictures and the Walt Disney Company by opting for a video on-demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while cinemas remain closed across the world .
Scoob !
is an animated adaptation of the much loved cartoon Scooby Doo .
It is the first film based on the popular kids show , since the live action version , Scooby-Doo 2 : Monsters Unleashed , hit cinemas in 2004 .
It will be released on demand the same day as its now cancelled theatrical release .
The film features the voices of Zac Efron , Amanda Seyfried and Mark Wahlberg .
• Available on demand from : May 15 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Ben Affleck stars as Jack Cunningham , a high school basketball superstar who gave up the sport for unknown reasons .
The film follows him years later , as he finds redemption by leaving a meaningless job and battling an alcohol addiction , to become a basketball coach for his old university .
• Now available on demand on : Amazon Prime The King of Staten Island is a comedy-drama based on the life of American comedian , Pete Davidson ( Saturday Night Live ) , who grew up in Staten Island @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which follows him as he enters the world of stand-up comedy .
Universal Pictures has decided to premiere The King of Staten Island through home entertainment services on 12 June , a full week prior to its original theatrical release date .
However it is not yet known what services it will be streamed on , so keep your eyes peeled .
• Available to watch on : June 12 , 2020 This romantic comedy stars Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani as a couple who are on the verge of breaking up , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murder mystery .
The film follows them as they try to save themselves and their relationship , while trying to clear their names .
• Available on demand from : May 22 • Available to watch on : Netflix Elizabeth Moss ( Handmaid ’ s Tale ) stars in this science fiction horror which sees her fight against her scientist ex boyfriend , who becomes invisible in order to stalk and terrorise her .
While this film had three full weeks in UK theatres before lockdown began , it has been released early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its DVD release date .
• Available on demand from : March 20 , 2020 • Available to watch on : Amazon Prime , Google Play , YouTube This thriller sees Lily Collins star as the daughter of a wealthy and powerful man who upon suddenly passing away , leaves her with a disturbing secret inheritance that threatens to destroy her family ’ s lives .
The film also stars Simon Pegg ( Shaun of the Dead , Hot Fuzz ) .
It has not yet been announced which streaming platforms it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to watch this space .
• Available on demand from : May 22 , 2020 In a response to the pandemic , Sky has recently announced a partnership with NBCUniversal which will make movie releases available to rent on the Sky Store on the exact same day as their scheduled cinema premieres .
The computer-animated Trolls World Tour was the first film to become available under this new partnership .
It is also now available on several other on demand services .
The film is a jukebox musical and a sequel to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sees Princess Poppy and Branch on another adventure , this time aiming to unify the musical world of Trolls and defeat Queen Barb from destroying different genres of music .
• Available on demand from : April 10 , 2020 • Available to watch on : YouTube , Google Play , Amazon Prime

We've compiled a list of new and upcoming online film releases to keep your lockdown binge-watching fresh.
Here's what to watch, when it will be released, and how to see it.
Misbehaviour
Starring Keira Knightley and Jessie Buckley, this comical drama follows a group of feminist protesters who create a plan to disrupt the 1970 Miss World competition.
A mere four days after the film was released in theatres across the UK, cinemas were forced to close due to the coronavirus pandemic. The film was released on demand, three months prior to its DVD release date, to compensate.
UK cinema release date: March 13, 2020
Available on demand from: April 15, 2020
Available to watch on: YouTube, Amazon Prime, Google Play
DVD release date: July 2020
Emma
This adaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel of the same name, is set in Georgian and Regency-era England and follows a young woman, Emma Woodhouse, as she plays the role of matchmaker for her friends and family.
The film stars Anya Taylor-Joy (Peaky Blinders, Split) as Emma, Bill Nighy (Love Actually, Pirates of the Carribean) as Mr Woodhouse, and comedian Miranda Hart as Miss Bates.
UK cinema release date: February 14, 2020
Available on demand from: March 20, 2020
Available to watch on: YouTube, Amazon Prime, Google Play
DVD release date: May 19, 2020
Bloodshot
Bloodshot only saw a single week in theatres before lockdown measures forced cinemas to close. Four days later it was released online, for on-demand home entertainment.
Vin Diesel, stars as Ray Garrison, a US marine who is resurrected by a team of scientists and transformed into the superhero Bloodshot, after he and his wife are murdered.
The film is based on the bestselling comic book of the same name.
UK cinema release date: March 13, 2020
Available on demand from: March 24, 2020
Available to watch on: Sky Store, YouTube, Google Play, Amazon Prime
DVD release: May 5
Blu-ray and Ultra HD 4K Blu-ray release: June 8, 2020
Onward
This computer-animated fantasy-adventure film produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios, is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Featuring the voices of Chris Pratt and Tom Holland, it follows the adventures of two elven brothers who begin a magical quest to spend one more day with their late father.
This film only had two weeks of theatrical release before cinemas closed, which pales in comparison to the usual six weeks that most largely anticipated films have.
UK cinema release date: March 6, 2020
Available on demand from: May 4, 2020
Available to watch on: Sky Store, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, iTunes
DVD, 4K Ultra HD & Blu-ray release: May 19, 2020
Vivarium
This horror film may strike a chord with many of us stuck at home during lockdown.
Jesse Eisenberg and Imogen Poots star as a couple who get trapped for several years inside an eerie house in an empty, labyrinthine-like suburban neighbourhood.
The film details their descent into despair, as they continually but unsuccessfully try to escape this surreal reality.
Cinema release date: March 27, 2020
Available on demand from: March 27, 2020
Available to watch on: Amazon Prime, YouTube, Google Play
DVD release date: May 25, 2020
Artemis Fowl
This fantastical film follows the epic journey of Artemis Fowl, a 12-year-old boy genius and criminal mastermind, as he takes on an ancient, underground civilisation, while attempting to find his father who has mysteriously disappeared.
Starring Judy Dench (Victoria and Abdul, Cats) Colin Farrel (In Bruges, The Gentlemen) and Nonso Anozie (Game of Thrones) and directed by Kenneth Branagh, this film is based on Eoin Colfer’s popular fantasy novels of the same name.
UK cinema release date: May 29, 2020
Available on demand from: June 12, 2020
Available to watch on: Disney+
The Hunt
The original cinema release of this controversial satirical film, which heavily features firearms, already had to be postponed after a string of mass shootings in the US last autumn. And in 2020, UK cinemas closed just over a week after its theatrical release date, dramatically cutting down its time in the limelight.
However all is not lost, for you can now watch as twelve strangers avoid being hunted for sport, from the safety and comfort of your home, on Amazon Prime.
Starring Hilary Swank and Emma Roberts.
UK cinema release date: March 11, 2020
Now available on demand on: Amazon Prime
DVD release: June 9, 2020
Scoob!
Warner Brothers has followed in the footsteps of Universal Pictures and the Walt Disney Company by opting for a video on-demand release of its new animated film Scoob, while cinemas remain closed across the world.
Scoob! is an animated adaptation of the much loved cartoon Scooby Doo.
It is the first film based on the popular kids show, since the live action version, Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed, hit cinemas in 2004.
It will be released on demand the same day as its now cancelled theatrical release.
The film features the voices of Zac Efron, Amanda Seyfried and Mark Wahlberg.
UK cinema release date: May 15, 2020
Available on demand from: May 15, 2020
Available to watch on: Amazon Prime
The Way Back
Ben Affleck stars as Jack Cunningham, a high school basketball superstar who gave up the sport for unknown reasons.
The film follows him years later, as he finds redemption by leaving a meaningless job and battling an alcohol addiction, to become a basketball coach for his old university.
UK Cinema release date: April 24
Now available on demand on: Amazon Prime
DVD release date: May 19
The King of Staten Island
The King of Staten Island is a comedy-drama based on the life of American comedian, Pete Davidson (Saturday Night Live), who grew up in Staten Island.
The film is a coming-of-age story which follows him as he enters the world of stand-up comedy.
Universal Pictures has decided to premiere The King of Staten Island through home entertainment services on 12 June, a full week prior to its original theatrical release date.
However it is not yet known what services it will be streamed on, so keep your eyes peeled.
Cinema release date: June 19, 2020
Available to watch on: June 12, 2020
The Lovebirds
This romantic comedy stars Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani as a couple who are on the verge of breaking up, when they become unintentionally involved in a murder mystery.
The film follows them as they try to save themselves and their relationship, while trying to clear their names.
Cinema release date: April 3
Available on demand from: May 22
Available to watch on: Netflix
The Invisible Man
Elizabeth Moss (Handmaid’s Tale) stars in this science fiction horror which sees her fight against her scientist ex boyfriend, who becomes invisible in order to stalk and terrorise her.
While this film had three full weeks in UK theatres before lockdown began, it has been released early on streaming services, way ahead of its DVD release date.
Cinema release date: February 28
Available on demand from: March 20, 2020
Available to watch on: Amazon Prime, Google Play, YouTube
DVD release date: June 29, 2020
Inheritance
This thriller sees Lily Collins star as the daughter of a wealthy and powerful man who upon suddenly passing away, leaves her with a disturbing secret inheritance that threatens to destroy her family’s lives.
The film also stars Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz).
It has not yet been announced which streaming platforms it will be released on, so be sure to watch this space.
Cinema release date: May 22, 2020
Available on demand from: May 22, 2020
Trolls World Tour
In a response to the pandemic, Sky has recently announced a partnership with NBCUniversal which will make movie releases available to rent on the Sky Store on the exact same day as their scheduled cinema premieres.
The computer-animated Trolls World Tour was the first film to become available under this new partnership. It is also now available on several other on demand services.
The film is a jukebox musical and a sequel to the extremely popular 2016 film Trolls.
It sees Princess Poppy and Branch on another adventure, this time aiming to unify the musical world of Trolls and defeat Queen Barb from destroying different genres of music.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: Worcestershire and national news

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Kidderminster man stranded in Portugal since coronavirus lockdown

A HOLIDAY rep from Kidderminster is still trying to get home after the coronavirus lockdown left him stranded in Portugal .
Kevin Monger was due to return home from a trip to the Algarve on April 1 , but the flight and two subsequent Ryanair flights have been cancelled due to the pandemic .
The 49-year-old has spent six weeks in an apartment in the Portimao region of the Algarve - costing him €550 a month to rent - as most hotels in the area have been forced to close .
Kevin is having to rent an apartment at Real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost of €550 a month After losing his job due to the outbreak , Kevin applied for Universal Credit to help pay for his accommodation while he is stranded but says it was refused because he is not currently in the country .
He told The Shuttle : `` There are a lot of holidaymakers out here that are really cheesed off because they ca n't get home as there are no flights from Faro Airport .
`` I landed on March 1 and was due to fly back to Birmingham Airport on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The empty Praia da Rocha near to where Kevin is staying '' I booked another flight on May 1 and then again on May 9 , which were both cancelled .
I 've got another booked for May 16 but I 'm not holding out much hope .
`` Ryanair have given me the option of a refund or to rebook each time but I 'm too worried to accept the refund as I do n't know how long it will take . ''
He added : `` We 've had no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't been told anything this end .
Kevin says UK holidaymakers have been allowed to visit the pool '' I 'm having to pay out for the accommodation and without any financial support , it 's quite crippling .
It 's very stressful .
`` There are a lot of disgruntled people here - we 've been left in limbo . ''
Kevin said he and other UK residents have been allowed to visit the pool at the Real Plaza Portimao apartment complex where they are staying and go for a walk once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taped off and bars and restaurants are closed .
Kidderminster 's Kevin Monger has been stranded in the Algarve for over a month The Shuttle contacted Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier on Kevin 's behalf .
He said : `` We ’ re getting everybody home and if we had known about this we would have sorted it out sooner .
`` A lot of people have been stranded all over the world but we have got pretty much all of them home now .
`` I ’ ll be speaking to Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him in touch with the consulate services or contact them on his behalf and get him home .
”

Kevin Monger was due to return home from a trip to the Algarve on April 1, but the flight and two subsequent Ryanair flights have been cancelled due to the pandemic.
The 49-year-old has spent six weeks in an apartment in the Portimao region of the Algarve - costing him €550 a month to rent - as most hotels in the area have been forced to close.
Kevin is having to rent an apartment at Real Plaza Portimao in the Algarve at a cost of €550 a month
After losing his job due to the outbreak, Kevin applied for Universal Credit to help pay for his accommodation while he is stranded but says it was refused because he is not currently in the country.
He told The Shuttle: "There are a lot of holidaymakers out here that are really cheesed off because they can't get home as there are no flights from Faro Airport.
"I landed on March 1 and was due to fly back to Birmingham Airport on April 1, but it was cancelled.
The empty Praia da Rocha near to where Kevin is staying
"I booked another flight on May 1 and then again on May 9, which were both cancelled. I've got another booked for May 16 but I'm not holding out much hope.
"Ryanair have given me the option of a refund or to rebook each time but I'm too worried to accept the refund as I don't know how long it will take."
He added: "We've had no contact from the UK government and haven't been told anything this end.
Kevin says UK holidaymakers have been allowed to visit the pool
"I'm having to pay out for the accommodation and without any financial support, it's quite crippling. It's very stressful.
"There are a lot of disgruntled people here - we've been left in limbo."
Kevin said he and other UK residents have been allowed to visit the pool at the Real Plaza Portimao apartment complex where they are staying and go for a walk once a day, but said beaches are taped off and bars and restaurants are closed.
Kidderminster's Kevin Monger has been stranded in the Algarve for over a month
The Shuttle contacted Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier on Kevin's behalf. He said: "We’re getting everybody home and if we had known about this we would have sorted it out sooner.
"A lot of people have been stranded all over the world but we have got pretty much all of them home now.
"I’ll be speaking to Mr Monger directly and we will either put him in touch with the consulate services or contact them on his behalf and get him home.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Food bank takes over Kidderminster church as demand surges

A CHURCH in Kidderminster has been taken over by a local food bank in an effort to feed more families in need across Wyre Forest .
Franche Community Church has operated as an independent food bank for around 10 years , but has been forced to expand its operation in response to a significant upsurge in demand during the coronavirus pandemic .
The food bank normally operates from a back room at the Chestnut Grove site but has now taken over the entire building while the church is unable to hold its usual meetings to allow volunteers to store , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Franche Community Church has been taken over by Wyre Forest Food Bank to cope with demand during the pandemic Its distribution of food parcels has risen from 30 households a week to over 80 - made possible by an increase in offers of support from new and existing volunteers and 14 delivery drivers .
Volunteer Paul Guille told The Shuttle : `` We 're seeing a massive upsurge in demand for support to needy families .
`` Some have been directly affected by the pandemic .
They will come to us as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have certainly seen an increase in elderly people who are self-isolating and people coming through mental health teams who do n't cope well with shopping at the moment .
We treat them with the respect necessary .
`` We 've got two volunteers coming every week to pack boxes and then a team of drivers who deliver the food parcels to people 's doors . ''
The service has now changed its name to Wyre Forest Foodbank to better reflect the vast community it serves .
Food donations during this crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Farm Foods and Lidl on a weekly basis , as well as from the Mutual Aid groups in Bewdley and Stourport along with individual donations .
The food bank has also received donations from local schools and businesses forced to close due to the Government lockdown , including the Park Gate Inn , Tappeto Lounge , Kimmy Loves Cake and the Severn Valley Railway .
Thanks to donations from Churches Together in Kidderminster , Aldi , Morrisons and local residents , more than 500 five hundred Easter eggs were distributed over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appealing for food donations .
Details of collection points can be found at franchecommunitychurch.co.uk , or tinned donations can be left in the green bin at the back of the church .

Franche Community Church has operated as an independent food bank for around 10 years, but has been forced to expand its operation in response to a significant upsurge in demand during the coronavirus pandemic.
The food bank normally operates from a back room at the Chestnut Grove site but has now taken over the entire building while the church is unable to hold its usual meetings to allow volunteers to store, sort and package donations ready for delivery.
Franche Community Church has been taken over by Wyre Forest Food Bank to cope with demand during the pandemic
Its distribution of food parcels has risen from 30 households a week to over 80 - made possible by an increase in offers of support from new and existing volunteers and 14 delivery drivers.
Volunteer Paul Guille told The Shuttle: "We're seeing a massive upsurge in demand for support to needy families.
"Some have been directly affected by the pandemic. They will come to us as referrals from local agencies and councils.
"We have certainly seen an increase in elderly people who are self-isolating and people coming through mental health teams who don't cope well with shopping at the moment. We treat them with the respect necessary.
The packed food bank storage room at Franche Community Church
"We've got two volunteers coming every week to pack boxes and then a team of drivers who deliver the food parcels to people's doors."
The service has now changed its name to Wyre Forest Foodbank to better reflect the vast community it serves.
Food donations during this crisis have been received from Morrisons, Tesco, Farm Foods and Lidl on a weekly basis, as well as from the Mutual Aid groups in Bewdley and Stourport along with individual donations.
Food bank volunteers with parcels ready for delivery
The food bank has also received donations from local schools and businesses forced to close due to the Government lockdown, including the Park Gate Inn, Tappeto Lounge, Kimmy Loves Cake and the Severn Valley Railway.
Thanks to donations from Churches Together in Kidderminster, Aldi, Morrisons and local residents, more than 500 five hundred Easter eggs were distributed over the Easter period.
Wyre Forest Foodbank is appealing for food donations. Details of collection points can be found at franchecommunitychurch.co.uk, or tinned donations can be left in the green bin at the back of the church.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Appeal for witnesses after bench set on fire in Brinton Park

A BENCH was set on fire in Kidderminster 's Brinton Park on Tuesday night .
Police are investigating the act @ @ @ @ @ were called to extinguish the fire off Sutton Road just before 11pm on May 5 @ @ @ @ @ and Rescue Service posted on Twitter to say it was called at 10.51pm to a @ @ @ @ @ Firefighters found the bench `` well alight '' and used one extended hose reel jet @ @ @ @ @ Police are now appealing for witnesses .
Anyone with information on the fire should call @ @ @ @ @

Police are investigating the act of criminal damage after firefighters were called to extinguish the fire off Sutton Road just before 11pm on May 5.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service posted on Twitter to say it was called at 10.51pm to a fire in the open.
Firefighters found the bench "well alight" and used one extended hose reel jet to extinguish the flames.
Police are now appealing for witnesses.
Anyone with information on the fire should call 101, quoting 0726s.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Bewdley Got 2 Sing choir members host virtual VE Day singalongs

TO mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day , Got 2 Sing Choir members in Bewdley are inviting members of the public to join their live singalongs with a wartime theme .
All this week , choir singers from across the region will be lifting spirits with daily Facebook Live performances from 7.30pm on weekdays and 4pm Friday to Sunday - and they 're inviting the public to join in .
Songs will include White Cliffs of Dover , Pack Up Your Troubles and Somewhere Over the Rainbow .
Got 2 Sing will also be hosting a virtual VE Day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , May 8 .
The event , themed ‘ We ’ ll Meet Again ’ , promises to be a good old traditional knees up , with songs such as Rule Britannia , You ’ ll Never Walk Alone and Land of Hope and Glory .
Members have been invited to prepare a glass of fizz and sandwiches and bake their best cakes for a lively online picnic .
Choir founder Beth Dunn said : `` We ’ re quite excited about hosting our virtual picnic and hope it will bring some much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is proving to help maintain people ’ s mental health during these troubled times .
`` It ’ s amazing how everyone has embraced the technology too during lockdown .
Social media such as Facebook and platforms such as Zoom have provided a lifeline for members and leaders alike.
” For more information , search Got 2 Sing on Facebook .

All this week, choir singers from across the region will be lifting spirits with daily Facebook Live performances from 7.30pm on weekdays and 4pm Friday to Sunday - and they're inviting the public to join in.
Songs will include White Cliffs of Dover, Pack Up Your Troubles and Somewhere Over the Rainbow.
Got 2 Sing will also be hosting a virtual VE Day 75th anniversary party via Zoom on Friday, May 8. The event, themed ‘We’ll Meet Again’, promises to be a good old traditional knees up, with songs such as Rule Britannia, You’ll Never Walk Alone and Land of Hope and Glory.
Members have been invited to prepare a glass of fizz and sandwiches and bake their best cakes for a lively online picnic.
Choir founder Beth Dunn said: "We’re quite excited about hosting our virtual picnic and hope it will bring some much needed sunshine for everyone!
"Singing is proving to help maintain people’s mental health during these troubled times.
"It’s amazing how everyone has embraced the technology too during lockdown. Social media such as Facebook and platforms such as Zoom have provided a lifeline for members and leaders alike.”
For more information, search Got 2 Sing on Facebook.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Aldi unveils additional safety changes for shoppers and staff

German supermarket chain Aldi has unveiled additional measures to help keep shoppers and staff safe .
Adding to its current in store rules and social distancing measures - which include a no touch policy , floor markings , checkout safety screens and a one-adult-per-shop policy - the supermarket giant has now added four more to the list .
What are Aldi ’ s additional safety measures for customers ?
The supermarket is now providing free face masks for staff to help protect them from catching the virus from each other , as well as customers .
The chain is also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are aiding the vulnerable with their food shops .
The vouchers can be purchased online , and delivered free of charge .
What measures has Aldi introduced to support suppliers ?
Additionally it is supporting certain UK suppliers by increasing the number of orders on meat produce from farmers .
Aldi has arranged to purchase additional orders of British beef in order to help its partners who have found themselves with surplus beef , after the UK lockdown saw restaurants and catering businesses close .
Finally , the supermarket has established an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to sell 200,000 flowers in store and online .
This will help horticultural suppliers to move their spring plants which would otherwise be disposed of due to the closure of garden centres and other non essential shops .
One such supplier , Lovania Nurseries , an Aldi supplier for over 20 years , has received an order for 200,000 Spring Perennials from the supermarket .
What other schemes has Aldi launched during lockdown ?
Since the country entered lockdown over a month ago , Aldi has also launched a box of essentials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for themselves .
Similar to other UK supermarkets , Aldi introduced priority access for emergency service workers throughout the day .
Additionally , to avoid crowding , it has been informing customers of the busiest and quietest times to visit the store with the use of a traffic light system uploaded to its website .

Adding to its current in store rules and social distancing measures - which include a no touch policy, floor markings, checkout safety screens and a one-adult-per-shop policy - the supermarket giant has now added four more to the list.
What are Aldi’s additional safety measures for customers?
Face masks
The supermarket is now providing free face masks for staff to help protect them from catching the virus from each other, as well as customers.
Vouchers
The chain is also launching a voucher scheme to help volunteers that are aiding the vulnerable with their food shops.
The vouchers can be purchased online, and delivered free of charge.
What measures has Aldi introduced to support suppliers?
Increasing British beef orders
Additionally it is supporting certain UK suppliers by increasing the number of orders on meat produce from farmers.
Aldi has arranged to purchase additional orders of British beef in order to help its partners who have found themselves with surplus beef, after the UK lockdown saw restaurants and catering businesses close.
Selling 200,000 flowers
Finally, the supermarket has established an agreement with a horticultural firm, in order to sell 200,000 flowers in store and online.
This will help horticultural suppliers to move their spring plants which would otherwise be disposed of due to the closure of garden centres and other non essential shops.
One such supplier, Lovania Nurseries, an Aldi supplier for over 20 years, has received an order for 200,000 Spring Perennials from the supermarket.
What other schemes has Aldi launched during lockdown?
Since the country entered lockdown over a month ago, Aldi has also launched a box of essentials for vulnerable people who cannot shop for themselves.
Similar to other UK supermarkets, Aldi introduced priority access for emergency service workers throughout the day.
Additionally, to avoid crowding, it has been informing customers of the busiest and quietest times to visit the store with the use of a traffic light system uploaded to its website.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Whirlpool washing machine recall extended to more models - here's the full list

An additional 21 washing machines and tumble dryers haved been recalled by Whirlpool after being deemed to be a fire risk .
Here 's what you need to do if you have an affected model .
What have Whirlpool said ?
The update comes from the Whirlpool website as of April 29 , which states : “ As part of ongoing in-depth checks carried out by Whirlpool ’ s safety team , we are adding 21 additional models to the recall.
” The machines are being recalled because , as Whirlpool explains : “ When the heating element in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rare cases a component in the door lock system can overheat , which , depending on product features , can pose a risk of fire ” .
If you have already checked your machine due to previous recalls , you will need to check it again .
The recalled washing machines were manufactured under the brands of Hotpoint and Indesit between 2014 and 2018 .
These are the recalled models that have been added to the list of recalled machines by Whirlpool : How to check if you ’ re affected If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the recall , head to the dedicated Whirlpool recall website - washingmachinerecall.whirlpool.co.uk .
You ’ ll need to enter your postcode and your model number , and the website will be able to tell you if your model is part of the recall .
If it is , you ’ ll then be taken to a new page which asks you to register , which will allow Whirlpool to get in contact with you .
You ’ ll need to fill out your name , email address , phone number and home address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state where you bought the machine from as well .
What happens if my machine is being recalled ?
If your machine is affected by the recall , then you are advised to unplug your appliance and stop using it immediately .
If you must continue using it , you should use only a cold water cycle of 20 degrees celsius or lower .
This will stop the washing machine ’ s heating element from being activated and therefore poses less of a risk .
Whirlpool Vice President , Jeff Noel , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide a free-of-charge replacement of comparable specification or in-home engineering repair to all affected customers in as safe a way as possible .
“ We understand that in the current climate , some customers will have health and safety concerns around our delivery partners or engineers entering their homes to carry out replacements or repairs .
“ We continue to follow government guidelines , with strict health and safety processes across our operations , including equipping all our delivery drivers and engineers with personal protective equipment and hand sanitiser .
“ However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of contactless delivery and removal of affected appliances .
”

Here's what you need to do if you have an affected model.
What have Whirlpool said?
The update comes from the Whirlpool website as of April 29, which states: “As part of ongoing in-depth checks carried out by Whirlpool’s safety team, we are adding 21 additional models to the recall.”
The machines are being recalled because, as Whirlpool explains: “When the heating element in the washing machine is activated, in very rare cases a component in the door lock system can overheat, which, depending on product features, can pose a risk of fire”.
If you have already checked your machine due to previous recalls, you will need to check it again.
The recalled washing machines were manufactured under the brands of Hotpoint and Indesit between 2014 and 2018.
The full list of recalled models
These are the recalled models that have been added to the list of recalled machines by Whirlpool:
WMAQB 641P UK
WMAQB 721P UK
WMAQB 741G UK
WMAQB 741P UK
WMAQF 621P UK.L
WMAQF 641G UK
WMAQF 641P UK
WMAQF 721P UK
WMAQG 641G UK
WMAQG 641P UK
WMAQG 721P UK
WMAQG 721P UK.M
WMAQG 741P UK.M
WMAQL 621P UK
WMAQL 641P UK
WMAQL 721A UK
WMAQL 721P UK
WMAQL 721P UK.M
WMAQL 741G UK
WMAQL 741P UK
WMSAQG 621G UK
How to check if you’re affected
If you think your washing machine is affected by the recall, head to the dedicated Whirlpool recall website - washingmachinerecall.whirlpool.co.uk.
You’ll need to enter your postcode and your model number, and the website will be able to tell you if your model is part of the recall.
If it is, you’ll then be taken to a new page which asks you to register, which will allow Whirlpool to get in contact with you.
You’ll need to fill out your name, email address, phone number and home address. You’ll also need to state where you bought the machine from as well.
Alternatively, you can phone 0800 316 1442.
What happens if my machine is being recalled?
If your machine is affected by the recall, then you are advised to unplug your appliance and stop using it immediately.
If you must continue using it, you should use only a cold water cycle of 20 degrees celsius or lower.
This will stop the washing machine’s heating element from being activated and therefore poses less of a risk.
Whirlpool Vice President, Jeff Noel, said: “We will still continue to provide a free-of-charge replacement of comparable specification or in-home engineering repair to all affected customers in as safe a way as possible.
“We understand that in the current climate, some customers will have health and safety concerns around our delivery partners or engineers entering their homes to carry out replacements or repairs.
“We continue to follow government guidelines, with strict health and safety processes across our operations, including equipping all our delivery drivers and engineers with personal protective equipment and hand sanitiser.
“However, we will also offer customers the option of contactless delivery and removal of affected appliances.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Stourport security firm donates CCTV to nurse hit by burglary

THE kind-hearted team at a Stourport security firm have donated free CCTV cameras to a frontline nurse whose home was hit by callous thieves .
Darren and Beverley Griffiths were moved to help after hearing how intensive care nurse Sarah Banks was the victim of an overnight break-in last month .
The thieves stole the 32-year-old 's car , handbag and glasses from her Bromsgrove home while she was sleeping .
The burglary , which was labelled as `` disgraceful and selfish '' by police chiefs , stopped Sarah from being able to save lives during the coronavirus crisis at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she could n't go into work without her glasses .
Beverley said : `` When we heard about what happened we were really shocked and wanted to offer our help .
It 's really upsetting that during this hard time somebody would do a thing like that .
`` Sarah said she had n't been able to sleep since the robbery so we wanted to help give her back her peace of mind . ''
The couple were put in touch with Sarah after responding to a TV report and from there kitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a secure as possible .
Darren , who is director of the firm , installed CCTV cameras at Sarah 's home in Catshill , completely free of charge and he also called on the services of Pyronix Ltd , a leading alarm company , who also donated a home alarm system for free .
The kit would normally cost more than £1,000 .
Speaking to the Bromsgrove Advertiser following the shocking burglary , Sarah said she had been heartened by the actions of strangers who had offered to help her .
Listers Volkswagen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her 2019 Golf GTI – worth £30,000 – was stolen while VIP Eyewear in Tardebigge and Specsavers Bromsgrove offered kindly replacement specs .
Beverley , who works alongside her husband Darren , said : `` She is absolutely overwhelmed and ca n't believe people 's generosity .
`` It 's nice to do something good for somebody who is doing so much good for us . ''

Darren and Beverley Griffiths were moved to help after hearing how intensive care nurse Sarah Banks was the victim of an overnight break-in last month.
The thieves stole the 32-year-old's car, handbag and glasses from her Bromsgrove home while she was sleeping.
The burglary, which was labelled as "disgraceful and selfish" by police chiefs, stopped Sarah from being able to save lives during the coronavirus crisis at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham as she couldn't go into work without her glasses.
Beverley said: "When we heard about what happened we were really shocked and wanted to offer our help. It's really upsetting that during this hard time somebody would do a thing like that.
"Sarah said she hadn't been able to sleep since the robbery so we wanted to help give her back her peace of mind."
The couple were put in touch with Sarah after responding to a TV report and from there kitted out her house to make it as a secure as possible.
Darren, who is director of the firm, installed CCTV cameras at Sarah's home in Catshill, completely free of charge and he also called on the services of Pyronix Ltd, a leading alarm company, who also donated a home alarm system for free.
The kit would normally cost more than £1,000.
Speaking to the Bromsgrove Advertiser following the shocking burglary, Sarah said she had been heartened by the actions of strangers who had offered to help her.
Listers Volkswagen Nuneaton gave her a courtesy car after her 2019 Golf GTI – worth £30,000 – was stolen while VIP Eyewear in Tardebigge and Specsavers Bromsgrove offered kindly replacement specs.
Beverley, who works alongside her husband Darren, said: "She is absolutely overwhelmed and can't believe people's generosity.
"It's nice to do something good for somebody who is doing so much good for us."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--Coronavirus deaths in Wyre Forest reach another weekly high

THE number of weekly deaths from coronavirus-related conditions continues to creep up in Wyre Forest with the freshest figures showing 17 new fatalities in the district - the largest weekly toll yet .
The Wyre Forest Covid-19 death toll for the week ending April 24 was slightly up on the previous week , when 15 people in the region were registered as having died with coronavirus .
Of the 17 new Wyre Forest deaths , eight occurred in care homes , five at hospital , three at home and one in what the Office of National Statistics ’ figures classed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Overall , there have been 64 coronavirus-related deaths in the Wyre Forest since the outbreak of the pandemic , making the area one of the worst-affected in Worcestershire .
Of the other authorities in the county , only Wychavon ( 69 ) and Bromsgrove ( 80 ) have suffered more Covid-19 fatalities , according to ONS figures released on Tuesday ( May 5 ) .
Deaths where Covid-19 has been a contributory factor are far fewer in Malvern Hills ( 34 ) , Redditch ( 34 ) and Worcester ( 32 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April 17 , the overall statistics reveal Wyre Forest ’ s death rate per population has been nearly double that of neighbouring areas such as Worcester and Malvern Hills .
During that period , when the pandemic was believed to be at its peak , Wyre Forest suffered almost a quarter of all Covid-19 related deaths across the county – 45 deaths out of a total of 201 .
Unlike government-issued figures , which only include hospital deaths , the ONS data tracks Covid deaths in all establishments , including care homes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total .

The Wyre Forest Covid-19 death toll for the week ending April 24 was slightly up on the previous week, when 15 people in the region were registered as having died with coronavirus.
Of the 17 new Wyre Forest deaths, eight occurred in care homes, five at hospital, three at home and one in what the Office of National Statistics’ figures classed as an ‘other communal establishment’.
Overall, there have been 64 coronavirus-related deaths in the Wyre Forest since the outbreak of the pandemic, making the area one of the worst-affected in Worcestershire.
Of the other authorities in the county, only Wychavon (69) and Bromsgrove (80) have suffered more Covid-19 fatalities, according to ONS figures released on Tuesday (May 5).
Deaths where Covid-19 has been a contributory factor are far fewer in Malvern Hills (34), Redditch (34) and Worcester (32).
Using data from March 1 to April 17, the overall statistics reveal Wyre Forest’s death rate per population has been nearly double that of neighbouring areas such as Worcester and Malvern Hills.
During that period, when the pandemic was believed to be at its peak, Wyre Forest suffered almost a quarter of all Covid-19 related deaths across the county – 45 deaths out of a total of 201.
Unlike government-issued figures, which only include hospital deaths, the ONS data tracks Covid deaths in all establishments, including care homes, to give a truer reflection of the total.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--How to mark VE Day on Friday in your own home

In honour of the 75th anniversary of VE Day , this May bank holiday has been changed around .
Nationwide plans had been drawn up to mark the anniversary of Victory in Europe day at the end of World War Two – but they have had to be scrapped because of the coronavirus lockdown .
Now people across the country are being urged to host a ‘ stay at home street party ’ – and to celebrate the date with socially distanced activities .
Organisers want people to decorate their home in red , white and blue – and enjoy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The idea is for neighbours in streets across Britain will come out to drape their homes in flags and bunting – and then enjoy the festivities while observing Government guidelines on social distancing , staying at least two metres apart from others , and not gathering in groups .
One of the initiatives put forward in aid of VE Day is the BBC ’ s Make A Difference campaign .
Everyone is asked to show off their bunting displays on social media using the hashtags # GreatBritishBunting and # VEDay75 .
So just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to inject a little bit of colour into proceedings ?
The simplest method in this instance is track down the bunting template pack can be downloaded online at www.bbc.co.uk/makeadifference .
To get started , you ’ ll need some materials on hand , but these can be anything from paper , cereal boxes , string , ribbon , sweet wrappers , felt pens , poster paint or whatever you can find .
“ You can decorate your bunting with pictures of whatever inspires you , ” say the BBC , “ whether it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frontline or worked hard on the Homefront , or whether it ’ s a celebration of enduring peace or your own personal hero.
” Where can I get flags ?
If you ’ d rather get your decorations in pre-made , a quick search of the usual retailers will reward you with both Union Jack bunting and flags in abundance .
Or should that be , in ‘ abuntance ’ ?
For instance , Amazon is currently selling this 32ft red , white and blue bunting for £6.99 .
This full-size , 5ft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can even get a flag-based table cover .
What else is happening ?
Despite the current restrictions , VE Day looks set to be a packed day of events and activities to honour the historical anniversary .
At 11am , a two-minute national silence will be held to remember the declaration of victory and the end of the Second World War in Europe .
Between 2.45 and 3.45pm , the first of two special BBC One programmes to mark VE75 will be broadcast , an including extract from Sir Winston Churchill ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Britons are encouraged to hold 1940s-style afternoon tea parties at home rather than street parties , including their homemade bunting and recipes from the era .
The Queen will then address the nation at 9pm , followed by national doorstep rendition of Dame Vera Lynn ’ s ‘ We ’ ll Meet Again ’ .

Nationwide plans had been drawn up to mark the anniversary of Victory in Europe day at the end of World War Two – but they have had to be scrapped because of the coronavirus lockdown.
Now people across the country are being urged to host a ‘stay at home street party’ – and to celebrate the date with socially distanced activities.
Organisers want people to decorate their home in red, white and blue – and enjoy a picnic in their front garden.
The idea is for neighbours in streets across Britain will come out to drape their homes in flags and bunting – and then enjoy the festivities while observing Government guidelines on social distancing, staying at least two metres apart from others, and not gathering in groups.
Show off your bunting
One of the initiatives put forward in aid of VE Day is the BBC’s Make A Difference campaign.
Everyone is asked to show off their bunting displays on social media using the hashtags #GreatBritishBunting and #VEDay75.
So just how can you make your own bunting to inject a little bit of colour into proceedings?
The simplest method in this instance is track down the bunting template pack can be downloaded online at www.bbc.co.uk/makeadifference.
To get started, you’ll need some materials on hand, but these can be anything from paper, cereal boxes, string, ribbon, sweet wrappers, felt pens, poster paint or whatever you can find.
“You can decorate your bunting with pictures of whatever inspires you,” say the BBC, “whether it’s those who fought on the frontline or worked hard on the Homefront, or whether it’s a celebration of enduring peace or your own personal hero.”
Where can I get flags?
If you’d rather get your decorations in pre-made, a quick search of the usual retailers will reward you with both Union Jack bunting and flags in abundance.
Or should that be, in ‘abuntance’?
For instance, Amazon is currently selling this 32ft red, white and blue bunting for £6.99.
This full-size, 5ft flag is available for £3.95, and you can even get a flag-based table cover.
What else is happening?
Despite the current restrictions, VE Day looks set to be a packed day of events and activities to honour the historical anniversary.
At 11am, a two-minute national silence will be held to remember the declaration of victory and the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Between 2.45 and 3.45pm, the first of two special BBC One programmes to mark VE75 will be broadcast, an including extract from Sir Winston Churchill’s victory speech.
Throughout the afternoon, Britons are encouraged to hold 1940s-style afternoon tea parties at home rather than street parties, including their homemade bunting and recipes from the era.
The Queen will then address the nation at 9pm, followed by national doorstep rendition of Dame Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-06--May's 'Super Flower Moon': How and when to see it in the UK

A so-called ‘ Flower Moon ’ will be spotted over the skies of the UK this week .
Not only that , but May 's full moon will also be a supermoon , making it a 'Super Flower Moon ' .
But just what does all that mean ?
The May full moon is traditionally known as the Flower Moon simply because it appears at the time of blossoming flowers .
The moon - our planet 's only natural satellite - actually follows an elliptical orbit around the Earth .
This means that at certain points on its egg-shaped path @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or closer to us - a differential of about 30,000 miles .
The closest point is called the perigee , and the furthest is the apogee .
When a full moon falls on the perigee , it appears far bigger and brighter in the sky and becomes known as a supermoon .
The phenomenon is not actually that rare , and this month 's is last in a trilogy that began with March 's full moon.. During a supermoon , the diameter of the moon can appear to be about 14 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What time will the moon be biggest ?
The full moon will be in the night sky on the evening of Thursday , May 7 , though it will technically be at its fullest at 11:45am on Thursday morning .
Seeing as it wo n't even be in the sky then - let alone visible in daylight - the fullest you 'll get to see the moon will come at around 8.45pm on Thurday , when the moon rises .
It will be in the sky all night , and wo n't set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , offering plenty of time for you to catch a glimpse .
For the best effect – and the closest you ’ ll get to witnessing the spectacular images seen across social media following such an event – you ’ ll want to look east shortly after moonrise .
“ When the moon is near the horizon , it can look unnaturally large when viewed through trees , buildings , or other foreground objects , '' say NASA .
`` The effect is an optical illusion , but that fact doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What else should I look out for ?
This month 's full moon ties in nicely with the peak of the Eta Aquariids meteor shower .
The meteor shower has been going on above our heads for a couple of weeks , and runs roughly from April 19 - May 28 .
However , it is this week when budding astronomers are likely to get the best show , as the shower peaks on the night of May 6 into May 7 .
The Eta Aquariids should be visible with the naked eye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supermoon will make them harder to spot .
Those living in built up areas would usually be advised to travel to less populated spaces and to avoid light pollution if they really want to see the shower , but with ongoing lockdown restrictions and the coronavirus pandemic , that is not advised .
Wrapping up in warm clothes is recommended , and you should allow up to 20 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the night sky .
The Eta Aquariids are not one of the year 's most spectacular meteor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 55 meteors per hours - that 's just under one a minute .

Not only that, but May's full moon will also be a supermoon, making it a 'Super Flower Moon'.
But just what does all that mean?
What is a Flower Moon?
The May full moon is traditionally known as the Flower Moon simply because it appears at the time of blossoming flowers.
What is a supermoon?
The moon - our planet's only natural satellite - actually follows an elliptical orbit around the Earth.
This means that at certain points on its egg-shaped path, it can be further away, or closer to us - a differential of about 30,000 miles.
The closest point is called the perigee, and the furthest is the apogee. When a full moon falls on the perigee, it appears far bigger and brighter in the sky and becomes known as a supermoon.
The phenomenon is not actually that rare, and this month's is last in a trilogy that began with March's full moon..
During a supermoon, the diameter of the moon can appear to be about 14 per cent greater than an average full moon.
What time will the moon be biggest?
The full moon will be in the night sky on the evening of Thursday, May 7, though it will technically be at its fullest at 11:45am on Thursday morning.
Seeing as it won't even be in the sky then - let alone visible in daylight - the fullest you'll get to see the moon will come at around 8.45pm on Thurday, when the moon rises.
It will be in the sky all night, and won't set again until about 6.10am the following morning, offering plenty of time for you to catch a glimpse.
For the best effect – and the closest you’ll get to witnessing the spectacular images seen across social media following such an event – you’ll want to look east shortly after moonrise.
“When the moon is near the horizon, it can look unnaturally large when viewed through trees, buildings, or other foreground objects," say NASA.
"The effect is an optical illusion, but that fact doesn’t take away from the experience."
What else should I look out for?
This month's full moon ties in nicely with the peak of the Eta Aquariids meteor shower.
The meteor shower has been going on above our heads for a couple of weeks, and runs roughly from April 19 - May 28.
However, it is this week when budding astronomers are likely to get the best show, as the shower peaks on the night of May 6 into May 7.
The Eta Aquariids should be visible with the naked eye, although the glare from a full supermoon will make them harder to spot.
Those living in built up areas would usually be advised to travel to less populated spaces and to avoid light pollution if they really want to see the shower, but with ongoing lockdown restrictions and the coronavirus pandemic, that is not advised.
Wrapping up in warm clothes is recommended, and you should allow up to 20 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the night sky.
The Eta Aquariids are not one of the year's most spectacular meteor showers, and usually peak at around 55 meteors per hours - that's just under one a minute.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-07--Coronavirus: Worcestershire and national news


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-07--Stourport recycling centre to reopen but Kidderminster remains closed

SEVEN out of 11 household recycling centres in Worcestershire will reopen for `` essential use only '' on Monday - but Kidderminster 's will remain closed .
The Bonemill recycling centre in Stourport is among those set to reopen , although strict social distancing measures will be in place .
It comes after Wyre Forest Police caught two fly-tippers red handed near Kidderminster town centre on Tuesday .
The number of vehicles visiting the reopened recycling centres will be limited , and the council is warning that queues and delays are likely .
Social distancing measures at the sites will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistance , so visitors are asked to ensure they are able to unload waste unaided .
To ensure the two metre rule is followed , access to each skip will be limited to one person at a time .
Councillor Tony Miller , cabinet member for environment , said : “ Where possible , we advise residents to take measures to avoid creating waste but if they do , keep it at home if it is safe to do so .
`` I would like to ask for the support of those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to keep staff , other visitors and themselves safe by making sure they are aware of the social distancing and restrictions before they arrive at a site and abide by them whilst on site .
`` These are not normal times so please be patient – the way we are operating is different from the way that we did before lockdown and it is for everyone ’ s safety.
” The council is asking residents to only visit the centres if their waste or recycling can not be stored at home without causing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and can not be disposed of safely by other means .
Those who are self-isolating or living with someone who is showing covid-19 symptoms must not visit the centres .
The council is asking visitors to look online at the restrictions that will be in place and to check opening hours before travelling .
Sites set to open on May 11 include Bromsgrove , Malvern , Pershore , Redditch , Stourport , Tenbury and Worcester .

The Bonemill recycling centre in Stourport is among those set to reopen, although strict social distancing measures will be in place.
It comes after Wyre Forest Police caught two fly-tippers red handed near Kidderminster town centre on Tuesday.
The number of vehicles visiting the reopened recycling centres will be limited, and the council is warning that queues and delays are likely.
Social distancing measures at the sites will also mean that staff cannot provide assistance, so visitors are asked to ensure they are able to unload waste unaided.
To ensure the two metre rule is followed, access to each skip will be limited to one person at a time.
Councillor Tony Miller, cabinet member for environment, said: “Where possible, we advise residents to take measures to avoid creating waste but if they do, keep it at home if it is safe to do so.
"I would like to ask for the support of those who have to use the household recycling centres to keep staff, other visitors and themselves safe by making sure they are aware of the social distancing and restrictions before they arrive at a site and abide by them whilst on site.
Kidderminster Recycling Centre. Photo from Google Maps
"These are not normal times so please be patient – the way we are operating is different from the way that we did before lockdown and it is for everyone’s safety.”
The council is asking residents to only visit the centres if their waste or recycling cannot be stored at home without causing risk of injury, health or harm, and cannot be disposed of safely by other means.
Those who are self-isolating or living with someone who is showing covid-19 symptoms must not visit the centres.
The council is asking visitors to look online at the restrictions that will be in place and to check opening hours before travelling.
Sites set to open on May 11 include Bromsgrove, Malvern, Pershore, Redditch, Stourport, Tenbury and Worcester.
Visit worcestershire.gov.uk/letswastelessandrecycle for details.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-07--Kidderminster celebrates VE Day in May 1945

AS Winston Churchill announced the surrender of Germany and the end of the war in Europe in May 1945 , people in Kidderminster took to the streets to celebrate .
On May 8 , the Prime Minister told the nation : `` My dear friends , this is your hour .
This is not victory of a party or of any class .
`` It ’ s a victory of the great British nation as a whole ...
I rejoice we can all take a night off today and another day tomorrow ... celebrating victory.
” And on that Victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Badger recalled Lorne Street 's celebrations , saying : `` No committee was set up .
It was just generally decided to hold a party for Lorne Street residents .
A crowded VE Day party in Wood Street with plenty of bunting .
Photo by Geoff Jukes '' Food was scarce but everyone contributed from their rations .
People tended to stack up for emergencies and I was in the habit of putting food items in a box in the cellar - a tin of salmon , a couple of jellies , something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a special occasion .
`` Unlike today , when you can live a couple of doors away from someone and not know their name ; everyone then knew everyone in their street .
`` We looked out for one another and it was taken for granted that we would give whatever we could .
There were sandwiches , jellies and homemade cakes .
`` Some people kept chickens , so we could get a few eggs for baking , or there was powdered egg if all else failed .
This didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accustomed to using such things .
`` Most parties were held out in the street but , for us , Milton Hall was available .
The piano in the hall was played for musical chairs .
Lorne Street and Villiers Street 's VE Day celebrations .
The party is pictured outside Milton Hall Baptist Church .
Photo by Jill Jackson '' The tea party was for everyone but mainly the children .
It was just great to have something to celebrate at last.
” Many Kidderminster streets had parties like this , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ usually outside .
The Poplar Road party was held two days later on May 10 when over 60 children had a splendid tea and enjoyed donkey rides .
The highlight of the day was when every child was given an orange , a bag of sweets , ice cream and 3d bit - approximately 1.5p .
Mr Connolly donated the ice cream and Mr Crisp the 3d pieces .
The evening finished with singing and dancing for the older people with Jack Barber and his wife Ruby giving some fine vocal renditions .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ victory parties arranged in Sutton Park Road .
He said : “ There was a celebration bonfire held in a field owned by Mr and Mrs Beddoes close to Rifle Range Lane .
`` It was there that I was introduced to a young lady , Muriel Hartland , who was attending with a work colleague .
We were married in 1952 and have been together ever since.
” A celebration for VE day in Dudley Street .
Raymond Williams , in the high chair , is being fed by Beryl Rann .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that returning prisoners of war were welcomed home with parties .
A reporter at the time wrote : `` Celebrations were held at St John ’ s Institute on May 12 for Kenneth Haycock and Kenneth Cooke of Peel Street , and Charlie Brooks , youngest son of John Brooks and his late wife of three , The Serpentine , Sutton Farm Estate .
Charlie had arrived home on April 26 after being imprisoned in Germany for five years .
`` He was forced to march 800 miles by his captors in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prisoners being rescued by the Allies .
The British 2nd Army eventually rescued them at Ilsen.
” Woodward Road and Brinton Crescent joined forces for their VE Day celebration .
Photo by Mervyn Silcox Three months later , Japan surrendered and the Second World War finally ended .
Reminiscences and photographs are taken from Kidderminster and District in the Second World War by Bill Wood , Bob Millward and Robert Barber for Kidderminster and District Archaeological and Historical Society .
There are many more stories of the town ’ s Second World War @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available from the society for £10 via kidderhistsoc.btck.co.uk .

On May 8, the Prime Minister told the nation: "My dear friends, this is your hour. This is not victory of a party or of any class.
"It’s a victory of the great British nation as a whole... I rejoice we can all take a night off today and another day tomorrow... celebrating victory.”
And on that Victory in Europe Day, Kidderminster resident Vera Badger recalled Lorne Street's celebrations, saying: "No committee was set up. It was just generally decided to hold a party for Lorne Street residents.
A crowded VE Day party in Wood Street with plenty of bunting. Photo by Geoff Jukes
"Food was scarce but everyone contributed from their rations. People tended to stack up for emergencies and I was in the habit of putting food items in a box in the cellar - a tin of salmon, a couple of jellies, something for a special occasion – and this was a special occasion.
"Unlike today, when you can live a couple of doors away from someone and not know their name; everyone then knew everyone in their street.
"We looked out for one another and it was taken for granted that we would give whatever we could. There were sandwiches, jellies and homemade cakes.
"Some people kept chickens, so we could get a few eggs for baking, or there was powdered egg if all else failed. This didn’t taste so good but we were accustomed to using such things.
"Most parties were held out in the street but, for us, Milton Hall was available. The piano in the hall was played for musical chairs.
Lorne Street and Villiers Street's VE Day celebrations. The party is pictured outside Milton Hall Baptist Church. Photo by Jill Jackson
"The tea party was for everyone but mainly the children. It was just great to have something to celebrate at last.”
Many Kidderminster streets had parties like this, although, as Vera said, they were usually outside.
The Poplar Road party was held two days later on May 10 when over 60 children had a splendid tea and enjoyed donkey rides.
The highlight of the day was when every child was given an orange, a bag of sweets, ice cream and 3d bit - approximately 1.5p. Mr Connolly donated the ice cream and Mr Crisp the 3d pieces.
Poplar Road VE Day celebrations. Photo by Robert Barber
The evening finished with singing and dancing for the older people with Jack Barber and his wife Ruby giving some fine vocal renditions.
Graham Edginton recalls that there were several victory parties arranged in Sutton Park Road.
He said: “There was a celebration bonfire held in a field owned by Mr and Mrs Beddoes close to Rifle Range Lane.
"It was there that I was introduced to a young lady, Muriel Hartland, who was attending with a work colleague. We were married in 1952 and have been together ever since.”
A celebration for VE day in Dudley Street. Raymond Williams, in the high chair, is being fed by Beryl Rann. Photo by Graham Williams
The Shuttle reported that returning prisoners of war were welcomed home with parties.
A reporter at the time wrote: "Celebrations were held at St John’s Institute on May 12 for Kenneth Haycock and Kenneth Cooke of Peel Street, and Charlie Brooks, youngest son of John Brooks and his late wife of three, The Serpentine, Sutton Farm Estate. Charlie had arrived home on April 26 after being imprisoned in Germany for five years.
"He was forced to march 800 miles by his captors in an attempt to stop him and his fellow prisoners being rescued by the Allies. The British 2nd Army eventually rescued them at Ilsen.”
Woodward Road and Brinton Crescent joined forces for their VE Day celebration. Photo by Mervyn Silcox
Three months later, Japan surrendered and the Second World War finally ended.
Reminiscences and photographs are taken from Kidderminster and District in the Second World War by Bill Wood, Bob Millward and Robert Barber for Kidderminster and District Archaeological and Historical Society.
There are many more stories of the town’s Second World War experiences in the book, which is available from the society for £10 via kidderhistsoc.btck.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-07--NHS campaign: Scrap tuition fees for student nurses

The Shuttle is calling on the Government to scrap tuition fees for student nurses serving in our hospitals .
NATASHA MEEK explains why IN THE coronavirus pandemic , our thoughts turn to the healthcare heroes who have gone above and beyond their duty as they always have and always will .
Everyday NHS staff walk fearlessly into our hospitals , facing a virus which threatens their own lives and relatives as much as their patients ’ .
And they do it because there ’ s something in their DNA that calls on them to care .
Among those fighting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new generation of nurses , paramedics and midwives , experiencing their career firsts in the middle of an unprecedented international public health emergency .
They are fighting a highly infectious invisible killer with no cure and no treatments .
Every day they are facing situations even the most experienced hospital staff have never seen in their lifetimes .
They are the final year students who signed up out of good will .
And yet they are the same nurses paying £9,250 a year tuition fees for a degree course cut short by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of staff asked to work an unpaid placement or waiting to be enrolled in a paid band 4 nursing role .
Until 2016-17 , students studying a nursing degree received a bursary worth up to £16,454 a year .
The bursary also met student tuition fees .
But in 2015 the Government unexpectedly scrapped the bursary .
Doing so would increase the number of people training to be a nurse , according to the then-Chancellor George Osborne .
He could n't have been more wrong .
Since the Government scrapped NHS bursaries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loans there has been a 23 per cent reduction in applications for nursing courses in England .
According to the Royal College of Nursing ( RCN ) , it is a key reason why hospitals started this pandemic critically short of nurses - and why thousands of students have now been rushed to the frontline before their courses are finished .
The fear of running up huge debts has deterred many good candidates from becoming a nurse .
Those that have gone ahead now face starting a new career with a huge financial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ academic year , starting in September 2020 , all nursing students in England will get a £5,000-a-year maintenance grant .
In addition , those who plan to work in areas with the greatest need , or in disciplines where there is a shortage , will receive another £3,000 .
But that 's cold comfort for the thousands of student nurses currently in our hospitals coping with Covid-19 .
Today the Shuttle calls on the Government to scrap university tuition fees for academic year 2019/20 for student nurses who have shown their dedication to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
MPs across the political divide have already thrown their weight behind the campaign which asks : Is it fair to expect students to put their lives in danger and pay for the privilege ?
The RCN backed the campaign , branding tuition fees for healthcare students a “ mistake ” and “ a barrier to safely staffing hospital and other care settings ” .
The nursing institution says all students should have “ fair pay and conditions ” as new members of the NHS workforce .
Glenn Turp , for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nursing courses were a mistake .
The number of people applying for nursing dropped off a cliff when they were introduced .
`` They are a barrier to safely staffing hospital and other care settings and should be removed without delay . ''
And he said brave students joining the frontline deserve to be recognised : “ They have chosen to leave their courses early to join the workforce to help tackle the pandemic - they should be given fair pay and conditions .
“ Students who have chosen to enter the workforce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health and care settings as helping in a time of crisis , but they must be protected . ''
Newsquest approached the Treasury and the Department for Health but they declined to comment .
A spokesperson for the Department of Education said : “ We are grateful to all students who choose to support our NHS during this extremely difficult time and will be ensuring all students who do opt in are rewarded fairly for their hard work . ''
* If you agree it is unfair to ask student nurses to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and dying coronavirus victims in our hospitals please sign our petition by visiting the Parliament petitions website on https : //petition.parliament.uk/

IN THE coronavirus pandemic, our thoughts turn to the healthcare heroes who have gone above and beyond their duty as they always have and always will.
Everyday NHS staff walk fearlessly into our hospitals, facing a virus which threatens their own lives and relatives as much as their patients’. And they do it because there’s something in their DNA that calls on them to care.
Among those fighting to save lives on the frontline stands a new generation of nurses, paramedics and midwives, experiencing their career firsts in the middle of an unprecedented international public health emergency. They are fighting a highly infectious invisible killer with no cure and no treatments.
Every day they are facing situations even the most experienced hospital staff have never seen in their lifetimes.
They are the final year students who signed up out of good will. And yet they are the same nurses paying £9,250 a year tuition fees for a degree course cut short by the Covid-19 crisis. They are the same members of staff asked to work an unpaid placement or waiting to be enrolled in a paid band 4 nursing role.
Until 2016-17, students studying a nursing degree received a bursary worth up to £16,454 a year. The bursary also met student tuition fees.
But in 2015 the Government unexpectedly scrapped the bursary. Doing so would increase the number of people training to be a nurse, according to the then-Chancellor George Osborne.
He couldn't have been more wrong.
Since the Government scrapped NHS bursaries and replaced them with tuition fees and loans there has been a 23 per cent reduction in applications for nursing courses in England.
According to the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), it is a key reason why hospitals started this pandemic critically short of nurses - and why thousands of students have now been rushed to the frontline before their courses are finished.
The fear of running up huge debts has deterred many good candidates from becoming a nurse. Those that have gone ahead now face starting a new career with a huge financial burden.
Ironically, from the next academic year, starting in September 2020, all nursing students in England will get a £5,000-a-year maintenance grant. In addition, those who plan to work in areas with the greatest need, or in disciplines where there is a shortage, will receive another £3,000.
But that's cold comfort for the thousands of student nurses currently in our hospitals coping with Covid-19.
Today the Shuttle calls on the Government to scrap university tuition fees for academic year 2019/20 for student nurses who have shown their dedication to the NHS by serving in the coronavirus pandemic.
MPs across the political divide have already thrown their weight behind the campaign which asks: Is it fair to expect students to put their lives in danger and pay for the privilege?
The RCN backed the campaign, branding tuition fees for healthcare students a “mistake” and “a barrier to safely staffing hospital and other care settings”.
The nursing institution says all students should have “fair pay and conditions” as new members of the NHS workforce.
Glenn Turp, for the RCN explained: "Tuition fees for nursing courses were a mistake. The number of people applying for nursing dropped off a cliff when they were introduced.
"They are a barrier to safely staffing hospital and other care settings and should be removed without delay."
And he said brave students joining the frontline deserve to be recognised: “They have chosen to leave their courses early to join the workforce to help tackle the pandemic - they should be given fair pay and conditions.
“Students who have chosen to enter the workforce early are welcomed by hospitals and other health and care settings as helping in a time of crisis, but they must be protected."
Newsquest approached the Treasury and the Department for Health but they declined to comment.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education said: “We are grateful to all students who choose to support our NHS during this extremely difficult time and will be ensuring all students who do opt in are rewarded fairly for their hard work."
* If you agree it is unfair to ask student nurses to pay tuition fees while they care for sick and dying coronavirus victims in our hospitals please sign our petition by visiting the Parliament petitions website on https://petition.parliament.uk/