themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Charity's failings contributed to tragic Alan Henning's fate - report

A British charity had serious failings which contributed to the fate of murdered Eccles aid worker , Alan Henning , a government report has concluded .
The trustees of the humanitarian aid charity failed to take account of cash taken to Syria and were responsible for misconduct and mismangement , the charity regulator has found .
Mr Henning was kidnapped and later beheaded by ISIS after being snatched when crossing the border from Turkey into Syria with an aid convoy .
A taxicab driver in his home town , Mr Henning was killed by a group of British IS fighters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ volunteered for the UK charity , Al-Fatiha Global .
The father-of-two disappeared in December 2013 and was killed in October 2014 .
He is thought to have been murdered by a member of the group known as Jihadi John , who was later killed in a US drone strike .
A street has since been named after Mr Henning in Eccles and a permanent memorial put up in the town .
The charity at first denied that Mr Henning was one of its volunteers and failed to alert the Foreign Office or police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inquiry by the Charity Commission has concluded .
The convoys were run by Adeel Ali – the son of the chairman of trustees Mumtaz Ali – who , the report says , had been seen previously posing with masked gunmen holding AK47s .
In a report published today , the Charity Commission finds several serious failures in the administration of the charity , including failures to properly vet , safeguard and oversee volunteers who represented it , and to account for the way in which funds were spent .
Amy Spiller , head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : `` Sadly we found that the Trustees of Al-Fatiha Global failed in their legal duties and responsibilities .
They put their charity - its people , assets and good name - at risk .
`` I am pleased that the charity is now on a much more secure footing with a largely new trustees board and appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure the charity delivers on its purpose . ''
The report rejected claims that Mr Henning had volunteered for a different charity , Aid4Syria .
It said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from records obtained from police '' he was working for the charity .
The regulator ’ s inquiry , which launched in 2014 , aimed to establish , among other things , whether the charity had been misused or had supported unlawful or improper activity , including facilitating military , armed and political activity .
It also aimed to establish whether the charity ’ s funds had been misappropriated .
The report says of Al-Fatiha Global : “ The fact that they did not know or regard him [ Alan Henning ] as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was , and his safety was in their custody whilst on the convoy , was further evidence of lack of adequate oversight and management of the charity ’ s activities and risks arising from them .
“ The trustees ’ lack of oversight over the recruitment , management and safety of volunteers , was mismanagement and misconduct in the administration of the charity.
” The Commission had been engaging with the charity since April 2013 over concerns about its participation in and organisation of an aid convoy to Syria .
This activity was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the time .
The regulator had also issued general advice about charities ’ participation in aid convoys , which it states carry “ inherent risks ” and are “ not an effective means of delivering humanitarian aid ” .
A books and records check at the time uncovered significant weaknesses in the charity ’ s records , such that the trustees were unable to demonstrate where and how charitable funds had been applied .
The inquiry further found that the charity ’ s trustees provided “ little to no ” oversight of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including those that managed participation in convoys to Syria .
The trustees did not , the Commission said , act reasonably to ensure the charity ’ s assets , including its name , were used only to support or carry out its purposes .
The Commission found that individuals who travelled overseas carried between £2,000 to £3,000 each , but there were “ insufficient records ” as to how cash or aid was applied in Syria .
Read more of today 's top stories here There was no account of what the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it could have been used to fund terrorism .
The charity went from having an income of £4,038 and an expenditure of £500 in 2012 to an income of £1,229,928 and an expenditure of £464,654 within a year .
It failed to properly vet , safeguard and oversee volunteers who represented the charity , and to account for the way in which funds were spent .
“ The trustees did not , the Commission finds , act reasonably to ensure the charity ’ s assets , including its name , were used only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” it said .
The inquiry found there was “ no evidence ” of any background checks carried out or training given and said that the volunteers ’ “ precise roles still remains unclear ” .
Ms Spiller concluded : “ I hope other trustees learn from this case – notably about the very serious risks involved in taking part in aid convoys.
” The Commission says the trustees co-operated with the inquiry and that it is satisfied the charity is now operating lawfully .
Two remaining members of the group which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extradited to the US to stand trial for murder .

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A British charity had serious failings which contributed to the fate of murdered Eccles aid worker, Alan Henning, a government report has concluded.
The trustees of the humanitarian aid charity failed to take account of cash taken to Syria and were responsible for misconduct and mismangement, the charity regulator has found.
Mr Henning was kidnapped and later beheaded by ISIS after being snatched when crossing the border from Turkey into Syria with an aid convoy.
A taxicab driver in his home town, Mr Henning was killed by a group of British IS fighters, dubbed The Beatles. He had volunteered for the UK charity, Al-Fatiha Global.
The father-of-two disappeared in December 2013 and was killed in October 2014.
He is thought to have been murdered by a member of the group known as Jihadi John, who was later killed in a US drone strike.
A street has since been named after Mr Henning in Eccles and a permanent memorial put up in the town.
The charity at first denied that Mr Henning was one of its volunteers and failed to alert the Foreign Office or police when he was taken, a six-year inquiry by the Charity Commission has concluded.
The convoys were run by Adeel Ali – the son of the chairman of trustees Mumtaz Ali – who, the report says, had been seen previously posing with masked gunmen holding AK47s.
In a report published today, the Charity Commission finds several serious failures in the administration of the charity, including failures to properly vet, safeguard and oversee volunteers who represented it, and to account for the way in which funds were spent.
Amy Spiller, head of investigations teams at the Charity Commission, said: "Sadly we found that the Trustees of Al-Fatiha Global failed in their legal duties and responsibilities. They put their charity - its people, assets and good name - at risk.
"I am pleased that the charity is now on a much more secure footing with a largely new trustees board and appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure the charity delivers on its purpose."
The report rejected claims that Mr Henning had volunteered for a different charity, Aid4Syria.
It said that on "the balance of probability from records obtained from police" he was working for the charity.
The regulator’s inquiry, which launched in 2014, aimed to establish, among other things, whether the charity had been misused or had supported unlawful or improper activity, including facilitating military, armed and political activity.
It also aimed to establish whether the charity’s funds had been misappropriated.
(Image: Andy Kelvin/PA)
The report says of Al-Fatiha Global: “The fact that they did not know or regard him [Alan Henning] as a volunteer of the charity when he was, and his safety was in their custody whilst on the convoy, was further evidence of lack of adequate oversight and management of the charity’s activities and risks arising from them.
“The trustees’ lack of oversight over the recruitment, management and safety of volunteers, was mismanagement and misconduct in the administration of the charity.”
The Commission had been engaging with the charity since April 2013 over concerns about its participation in and organisation of an aid convoy to Syria.
This activity was outside Al-Fatiha Global’s charitable purposes at the time. The regulator had also issued general advice about charities’ participation in aid convoys, which it states carry “inherent risks” and are “not an effective means of delivering humanitarian aid”.
A books and records check at the time uncovered significant weaknesses in the charity’s records, such that the trustees were unable to demonstrate where and how charitable funds had been applied.
(Image: Andy Kelvin/PA)
The inquiry further found that the charity’s trustees provided “little to no” oversight of individuals to whom they had delegated responsibility, including those that managed participation in convoys to Syria.
The trustees did not, the Commission said, act reasonably to ensure the charity’s assets, including its name, were used only to support or carry out its purposes.
The Commission found that individuals who travelled overseas carried between £2,000 to £3,000 each, but there were “insufficient records” as to how cash or aid was applied in Syria.
There was no account of what the money was used for, raising concerns it could have been used to fund terrorism.
The charity went from having an income of £4,038 and an expenditure of £500 in 2012 to an income of £1,229,928 and an expenditure of £464,654 within a year.
It failed to properly vet, safeguard and oversee volunteers who represented the charity, and to account for the way in which funds were spent.
(Image: Dominic Salter)
“The trustees did not, the Commission finds, act reasonably to ensure the charity’s assets, including its name, were used only to support or carry out its purposes,” it said.
The inquiry found there was “no evidence” of any background checks carried out or training given and said that the volunteers’ “precise roles still remains unclear”.
Ms Spiller concluded:“I hope other trustees learn from this case – notably about the very serious risks involved in taking part in aid convoys.”
The Commission says the trustees co-operated with the inquiry and that it is satisfied the charity is now operating lawfully.
Two remaining members of the group which held Mr Henning are due to be extradited to the US to stand trial for murder.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Man Utd evening headlines as Ferdinand identifies Pogba replacement

Here are your evening headlines for Tuesday , March 31 .
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has sent a message to the club hierarchy over who he thinks should replace Paul Pogba should the Frenchman leave Old Trafford this summer .
The 41-year-old who spent 12 trophy-laden years at the club has spoken out on the ongoing transfer saga and pinpointed the exact player the club should be looking to bring in .
`` I don ’ t want Pogba to go but if he does go I ’ d take Saul Niguez all day long , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page , `` Not like-for-like but still a top player.
” Ferdinand expressed his admiration for the highly-rated Atletico Madrid star and believes he has all the tools to be a hit United .
`` What a player .
I ’ ve been harping on about Saul Niguez for a few years now .
`` I think he ’ s a major player .
Composed , calm , great left foot , lovely conductor , he can score goals , tactically he ’ s very aware .
`` You can see [ Diego @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really well set up and he ’ s in the middle orchestrating and dictating things . ''
Here 's the latest on the Pogba saga from Samuel Luckhurst .
Personal problems at the heart of Anderson ’ s ‘ failure ’ at United An ex-teammate of former United midfielder Anderson has revealed that problems in his personal life had a major impact on the player ’ s time at the club .
Jakub Kosecki , who played alongside the Brazilian at Turkish side Adana Demirspor - Anderson ’ s last club before retiring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over his ultimately disappointing time at Old Trafford .
`` He told me that he had his problems in Manchester .
He told me how he almost died in a car crash .
A lot of different things happened in his life which made him change as a footballer and as a person.
” Robin van Persie reveals why he chose United over City Robin van Persie had an unforgettable time at Old Trafford , helping the club to a 20th League title back in 2013 .
However , the move might not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have ended up across town at City , who were also nterested in his signature at the time .
But the Dutchman who scored 58 times in 105 appearances and won the Golden Boot in that triumphant title campaign said the draw of United was just too great .
`` I had two other options , '' he told sofoot .
`` Juventus and Manchester City.
” '' But I had always had positive feelings towards Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United . ''
He said : `` It is true that Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and he has chosen to go to United ''

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Ibrahim Mustapha )

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Here are your evening headlines for Tuesday, March 31.
Rio Ferdinand identifies ‘major player’ to replace Paul Pogba
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has sent a message to the club hierarchy over who he thinks should replace Paul Pogba should the Frenchman leave Old Trafford this summer.
The 41-year-old who spent 12 trophy-laden years at the club has spoken out on the ongoing transfer saga and pinpointed the exact player the club should be looking to bring in.
"I don’t want Pogba to go but if he does go I’d take Saul Niguez all day long," he said during an Instagram Live on his official page, "Not like-for-like but still a top player.”
Ferdinand expressed his admiration for the highly-rated Atletico Madrid star and believes he has all the tools to be a hit United.
"What a player. I’ve been harping on about Saul Niguez for a few years now.
"I think he’s a major player. Composed, calm, great left foot, lovely conductor, he can score goals, tactically he’s very aware.
"You can see [Diego] Simeone, he gets his teams really well set up and he’s in the middle orchestrating and dictating things."
Here's the latest on the Pogba saga from Samuel Luckhurst.
Personal problems at the heart of Anderson’s ‘failure’ at United
An ex-teammate of former United midfielder Anderson has revealed that problems in his personal life had a major impact on the player’s time at the club.
Jakub Kosecki, who played alongside the Brazilian at Turkish side Adana Demirspor - Anderson’s last club before retiring - said the midfielder confided in him over his ultimately disappointing time at Old Trafford.
"He told me that he had his problems in Manchester. He told me how he almost died in a car crash. A lot of different things happened in his life which made him change as a footballer and as a person.”
Read More
Robin van Persie reveals why he chose United over City
Robin van Persie had an unforgettable time at Old Trafford, helping the club to a 20th League title back in 2013.
However, the move might not have happened, and the player could have ended up across town at City, who were also
nterested in his signature at the time.
But the Dutchman who scored 58 times in 105 appearances and won the Golden Boot in that triumphant title campaign said the draw of United was just too great.
"I had two other options," he told sofoot. "Juventus and Manchester City.”
"But I had always had positive feelings towards Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United."
Back in 2012, then Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirmed City's approach.
He said: "It is true that Manchester City [were] interested in him and he has chosen to go to United"


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Why men are competing to see who can look the most 'undesirable' during lockdown

The thought of going months without a hair cut will have crossed many a man 's mind over the last few weeks .
With the prospect of barber shops being shut for the foreseeable future , some have taken to cutting their own hair or shaving it off to save the trouble .
But others are embracing the rugged look , even challenging each other to see who can become the most 'undesirable ' during the lockdown period .
'The Lockdown Challenge ' is the brainchild of Tony Doyle , a PE teacher from Leigh .
The rules are simple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at all while the UK is on lockdown , and should post at least two photos a week to show their progress .
Whoever is deemed the most undesirable at the end will win a prize .
Mr Doyle , 35 , explained : `` A lot of people are off work and at home with people they love , so they can let their hair go and have a laugh at themselves .
`` I put a post on my Facebook last week saying the barbers is not going to be open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grooming until it is over ?
`` About 15 people got back and we all sent each other a selfie .
One of the lads had been self-isolating for two weeks and his face was a picture . ''
That gave Mr Doyle the idea to set a challenge .
Initially he hoped men from across Leigh would sign up , but it has grown bigger than that .
More than 12,000 men have joined the group 's Facebook page since it was set up last week .
`` It has become bigger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 35 , said .
`` The group is slowly becoming a haven where people can come and reach out , and have a bit of fun .
`` Men are a closed off bunch .
In uncertain times they are used to keeping to themselves .
`` A guy posted in the group the other day to say he could not make heads or tails of the self-employed advice and within a few minutes he had loads of replies .
It is great to see . ''
But the challenge also has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS under immense pressure from the pandemic , Mr Doyle is asking those taking part to donate money towards the service .
So far , more than £5,000 has been raised , far more than the initial £1,000 target .
But Mr Doyle , who works as a PE teacher for special needs pupils , so is deemed a key worker , is also proud of how the group has got men supporting each other during such an uncertain time .
He said : `` There are quite a few nurses in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is helpful .
`` There is lot of information out there that is not reliable so it is handy to have the proper advice from people working in the NHS .
`` Our motto is 'stay home , stay safe and keep growing ' .
`` It was about hair at first but some people can not grow their hair and instead are growing their knowledge and ability to reach out to people . ''
You can find more about 'The Lockdown Challenge ' here .

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The thought of going months without a hair cut will have crossed many a man's mind over the last few weeks.
With the prospect of barber shops being shut for the foreseeable future, some have taken to cutting their own hair or shaving it off to save the trouble.
But others are embracing the rugged look, even challenging each other to see who can become the most 'undesirable' during the lockdown period.
'The Lockdown Challenge' is the brainchild of Tony Doyle, a PE teacher from Leigh.
The rules are simple. Those taking part must not groom at all while the UK is on lockdown, and should post at least two photos a week to show their progress.
Whoever is deemed the most undesirable at the end will win a prize.
Mr Doyle, 35, explained: "A lot of people are off work and at home with people they love, so they can let their hair go and have a laugh at themselves.
"I put a post on my Facebook last week saying the barbers is not going to be open any time soon so who fancies not grooming until it is over?
"About 15 people got back and we all sent each other a selfie. One of the lads had been self-isolating for two weeks and his face was a picture."
That gave Mr Doyle the idea to set a challenge. Initially he hoped men from across Leigh would sign up, but it has grown bigger than that.
More than 12,000 men have joined the group's Facebook page since it was set up last week.
"It has become bigger than I expected," Mr Doyle, 35, said.
"The group is slowly becoming a haven where people can come and reach out, and have a bit of fun.
"Men are a closed off bunch. In uncertain times they are used to keeping to themselves.
"A guy posted in the group the other day to say he could not make heads or tails of the self-employed advice and within a few minutes he had loads of replies. It is great to see."
But the challenge also has a more serious side.
With the NHS under immense pressure from the pandemic, Mr Doyle is asking those taking part to donate money towards the service.
(Image: PA)
So far, more than £5,000 has been raised, far more than the initial £1,000 target.
But Mr Doyle, who works as a PE teacher for special needs pupils, so is deemed a key worker, is also proud of how the group has got men supporting each other during such an uncertain time.
He said: "There are quite a few nurses in the group putting advice as well, which is helpful.
"There is lot of information out there that is not reliable so it is handy to have the proper advice from people working in the NHS.
Want more news from Wigan, Atherton or Leigh? Here's where you can find it. We now have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in and around Wigan. To keep up to date with all that is happening in Wigan, Atherton and Leigh - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here. Reporter Tom George covers all things Wigan for the Manchester Evening News, you can follow him on Twitter here.
"Our motto is 'stay home, stay safe and keep growing'.
"It was about hair at first but some people cannot grow their hair and instead are growing their knowledge and ability to reach out to people."
You can find more about 'The Lockdown Challenge' here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Why is Matt Baker leaving The One Show?

Why is Matt Baker leaving The One Show?

Matt Baker is set to carry out his last presenting duties on The One Show tonight .
The 42-year-old is stepping down from the BBC live show after nine years at the healm .
His regular co-host Alex Jones said at the end of Monday 's show that Tuesday is going to be a `` really difficult day for us because Matt is leaving . ''
Matt has spent the last two weeks presenting from his own home as he was self-isolating after self-isolating when somebody in his household developed a cough .
But despite not being able to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last show tonight .
Matt left fans in tears in December when he announced he was leaving the show .
Announcing the news , he said : `` I would like to take this opportunity to say that at this time of year I like to stop , reflect and take stock . ''
`` The One Show has been a massive part of my life for almost a decade now and I 've loved every second of being a part of it , but I 'm going to be leaving this green @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's time to give somebody else the opportunity to see how big hearted and generous you , our One Show viewers really are .
`` It 's something I get to witness every year when you help to change the lives of so many vulnerable youngsters - the Rickshaw Challenge for Children in Need .
`` All that support that you show us , you will never really understand how much that means to me .
`` And so I would like to thank you and pay a huge tribute to all those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years . ''
Holding back the tears , Matt added : `` Of course , I 'd like to thank Alex [ Jones ] who I have shared this sofa with for all of these years and the teams of people who work on this show all around the UK - the ones who you do not get to see .
`` The researchers , the producers , the studio crew , everyone who makes this show feel like a massive , massive family .
`` And I am going to miss you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the bottom of my heart . ''

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Matt Baker carried out his final presenting duties on The One Show last night.
The 42-year-old is stepping down from the BBC live show after nine years at the healm.
His regular co-host Alex Jones said at the end of Monday's show that Tuesday is going to be a "really difficult day for us because Matt is leaving."
Matt has spent the last two weeks presenting from his own home as he was self-isolating after somebody in his household developed a cough.
But despite not being able to be on-set, he still has his last show on Tuesday night.
(Image: BBC)
Matt left fans in tears in December when he announced he was leaving the show.
Announcing the news, he said: "I would like to take this opportunity to say that at this time of year I like to stop, reflect and take stock."
"The One Show has been a massive part of my life for almost a decade now and I've loved every second of being a part of it, but I'm going to be leaving this green sofa in the spring.
"It's time to give somebody else the opportunity to see how big hearted and generous you, our One Show viewers really are.
"It's something I get to witness every year when you help to change the lives of so many vulnerable youngsters - the Rickshaw Challenge for Children in Need.
(Image: BBC/Ray Burmiston)
"All that support that you show us, you will never really understand how much that means to me.
"And so I would like to thank you and pay a huge tribute to all those who have ridden over the last nine years."
Holding back the tears, Matt added: "Of course, I'd like to thank Alex [Jones] who I have shared this sofa with for all of these years and the teams of people who work on this show all around the UK - the ones who you do not get to see.
"The researchers, the producers, the studio crew, everyone who makes this show feel like a massive, massive family.
"And I am going to miss you all indeed and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Liverpool plan sensational Sterling bid and more Man City rumours

Liverpool are planning an audacious bid to re-sign Raheem Sterling from Manchester City in the summer transfer window .
That is according to reports in France , who say Sterling is being lined up as a replacement for Sadio Mane , should the Senegal winger leave Liverpool at the end of the season .
Mane is being linked with a move to Real Madrid , so L'Equipe say Liverpool are exploring players who could replace him should the Spanish giants make a move .
One of those is former winger Sterling , who made the move from Anfield to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trophies since .
Sterling , 25 , is under contract at City until 2023 , with reports suggesting the club will try to open talks about extending that current deal while the football season is suspended .
However , City 's UEFA ban and appeal with CAS has also seen speculation that players like Sterling could look to leave in the summer in search of Champions League football .
Meanwhile , another City player has been linked with a summer exit as Tottenham and Arsenal are both said to be keen to sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an exit in the January window after struggling to keep his spot in the City team , but Guardiola refused to sell the England international .
The Daily Star suggest Arsenal and Tottenham are both interested in the former Everton man , with a reunion with Mikel Arteta at Arsenal a possibility .
Finally , City have reportedly joined rivals Chelsea in the race to sign Ajax defender Nicolas Tagliafico .
City are reportedly looking to land a left-back in the upcoming transfer window and Tagliafico has impressed in Holland .
Journalist Lucas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Argentine international .

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Liverpool are planning an audacious bid to re-sign Raheem Sterling from Manchester City in the summer transfer window.
That is according to reports in France, who say Sterling is being lined up as a replacement for Sadio Mane, should the Senegal winger leave Liverpool at the end of the season.
Mane is being linked with a move to Real Madrid, so L'Equipe say Liverpool are exploring players who could replace him should the Spanish giants make a move.
One of those is former winger Sterling, who made the move from Anfield to the Etihad in 2015 and has won seven trophies since. Sterling, 25, is under contract at City until 2023, with reports suggesting the club will try to open talks about extending that current deal while the football season is suspended.
However, City's UEFA ban and appeal with CAS has also seen speculation that players like Sterling could look to leave in the summer in search of Champions League football.
Meanwhile, another City player has been linked with a summer exit as Tottenham and Arsenal are both said to be keen to sign John Stones.
Stones was linked with an exit in the January window after struggling to keep his spot in the City team, but Guardiola refused to sell the England international.
The Daily Star suggest Arsenal and Tottenham are both interested in the former Everton man, with a reunion with Mikel Arteta at Arsenal a possibility.
Finally, City have reportedly joined rivals Chelsea in the race to sign Ajax defender Nicolas Tagliafico.
City are reportedly looking to land a left-back in the upcoming transfer window and Tagliafico has impressed in Holland.
Journalist Lucas Scagliola claims City are interested in the Argentine international.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Why Jude Bellingham is ready for Man United move ahead of summer transfer window

Sean Cole , football writer and Birmingham City fan , explains why 16-year-old Jude Bellingham is destined for bigger things - either at Manchester United or elsewhere ...
It ’ s been a strange season for Birmingham City .
The promised revolution in playing style hasn ’ t materialised and a much-heralded 10-match unbeaten run in the league ended with us in 16th place .
We were 18th when it started .
There has been more boardroom confusion , financial uncertainty and disillusionment , in keeping with previous years , but the one positive of the whole experience has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s something undeniably pure and joyful about seeing a young player come through the ranks to live out his dream .
In such a cynical and money-oriented environment as professional football often is , it ’ s a reminder of that unthinking childlike glee that it still has the capacity to impart at its best .
Seeing Bellingham score the winner on his home debut , and rush to celebrate with fans , was one of those moments where it all makes sense .
The boyhood supporter scoring for his team , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It instinctively registered as a moment of broader significance too , that would be talked about in years to come .
“ Were you there when Bellingham scored ?
” It was already too tempting to think of our new hero in the past tense – as somebody destined for bigger things , who belonged to us but only temporarily .
Just 16 years old and we were already counting down the days until he left .
Unlike Trevor Francis , Blues ’ original boy wonder from the 1970s , and the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to spend a long time at St Andrew ’ s .
Football had changed too much for that to happen .
Francis left after eight years and more than 300 appearances .
If the rumours of Bellingham ’ s impending departure are true , we will have got just under a season out of him .
As soon as the whispers started about a potential superstar in our midst , it was a case of simply enjoying it while it lasted .
Bellingham has been a revelation .
Often played out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his best .
Blessed with height and strength , he also has excellent technical ability .
He plays with the authority and conviction of someone much older .
He ’ s a thoroughly modern midfielder , with plenty of tricks and neat touches , but also something of a throwback .
He relishes a challenge , the chance to break up play and drive forward with the ball .
He ’ s more than willing to do the dirty work .
Long term it ’ s uncertain what position will suit Bellingham best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intelligent playmaker , a forceful box-to-box presence or anywhere between the two .
He has all the attributes needed to be whatever he wants .
There have been countless wonderkids throughout the course of modern football , but Bellingham is one who undoubtedly justifies the hype .
There can be no guarantee that he will fulfil his boundless potential – the course of any life and career is simply too complex for that – but he stands a far better chance than most .
Remarkably humble and level-headed for someone who has the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sign him , he seems unlikely to succumb to the typical pitfalls of greed and ego .
Well-advised by supportive parents , and with a young brother embarking on the same path , he won ’ t be easily led astray .
It ’ s a shame that we won ’ t get to see more of him in a Birmingham shirt .
Rumours of a move to the Bundesliga or the Premier League abound , and even the prospect of him being loaned back for a season seems increasingly remote .
Whatever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watch his career take shape .
He ’ s a credit to the club , and Blues supporters wish him all the best .

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Sean Cole, football writer and Birmingham City fan, explains why 16-year-old Jude Bellingham is destined for bigger things - either at Manchester United or elsewhere...
It’s been a strange season for Birmingham City. The promised revolution in playing style hasn’t materialised and a much-heralded 10-match unbeaten run in the league ended with us in 16th place. We were 18th when it started.
There has been more boardroom confusion, financial uncertainty and disillusionment, in keeping with previous years, but the one positive of the whole experience has been the emergence of Jude Bellingham.
There’s something undeniably pure and joyful about seeing a young player come through the ranks to live out his dream. In such a cynical and money-oriented environment as professional football often is, it’s a reminder of that unthinking childlike glee that it still has the capacity to impart at its best.
Seeing Bellingham score the winner on his home debut, and rush to celebrate with fans, was one of those moments where it all makes sense. The boyhood supporter scoring for his team, sharing in the joy of thousands.
It instinctively registered as a moment of broader significance too, that would be talked about in years to come. “Were you there when Bellingham scored?”
It was already too tempting to think of our new hero in the past tense – as somebody destined for bigger things, who belonged to us but only temporarily. Just 16 years old and we were already counting down the days until he left.
Unlike Trevor Francis, Blues’ original boy wonder from the 1970s, and the first ever £1m footballer, Bellingham was never going to spend a long time at St Andrew’s. Football had changed too much for that to happen.
Francis left after eight years and more than 300 appearances. If the rumours of Bellingham’s impending departure are true, we will have got just under a season out of him.
As soon as the whispers started about a potential superstar in our midst, it was a case of simply enjoying it while it lasted.
Bellingham has been a revelation. Often played out of position, he’s always given his best. Blessed with height and strength, he also has excellent technical ability. He plays with the authority and conviction of someone much older.
He’s a thoroughly modern midfielder, with plenty of tricks and neat touches, but also something of a throwback. He relishes a challenge, the chance to break up play and drive forward with the ball. He’s more than willing to do the dirty work.
Long term it’s uncertain what position will suit Bellingham best. He could be a perceptive and intelligent playmaker, a forceful box-to-box presence or anywhere between the two. He has all the attributes needed to be whatever he wants.
There have been countless wonderkids throughout the course of modern football, but Bellingham is one who undoubtedly justifies the hype. There can be no guarantee that he will fulfil his boundless potential – the course of any life and career is simply too complex for that – but he stands a far better chance than most.
Remarkably humble and level-headed for someone who has the world’s biggest clubs clamouring to sign him, he seems unlikely to succumb to the typical pitfalls of greed and ego. Well-advised by supportive parents, and with a young brother embarking on the same path, he won’t be easily led astray.
It’s a shame that we won’t get to see more of him in a Birmingham shirt. Rumours of a move to the Bundesliga or the Premier League abound, and even the prospect of him being loaned back for a season seems increasingly remote.
Whatever happens, it will be interesting to watch his career take shape. He’s a credit to the club, and Blues supporters wish him all the best.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--'Selfish idiots' dump disgraceful mess during lockdown

This is the disgraceful mess that has been piled high by fly tippers on a secluded road .
Photos and footage from Crime Lane in Oldham show a significant amount of rubbish carelessly discarded at the side of the secluded road .
It includes an old mattress , furniture , cardboard boxes , bags of clothes and what appears to be numerous bin bags of household and garden waste .
In some of the footage , a tractor can be seen trying to clear away some of the mess from where it has blocked the road .
Now , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible for the mess 'selfish ' for breaking lockdown rules to go out fly tipping .
Councillor Sean Fielding says the people who did this 'would have done it even if recycling centres were still open . '
He said : “ While our staff are working round the clock helping vulnerable members of our community , some idiots think it is ok to break the lockdown and go out and fly tip rubbish .
“ Let ’ s be clear – incidents like this have nothing to do with the temporary closure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The selfish people who have dumped this waste would have done it even if they had been open .
`` They don ’ t care that their actions have a really negative impact on the community '' .
Unfortunately , the spot is just one of many around Greater Manchester that has been blighted by fly tipping in recent days .
Footage has also captured piles of discarded household waste and toys dumped in Collyhurst in Manchester .
Manchester City Council has started an investigation after fly tipping was discovered on Sand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible .
All recycling centres and tips are currently closed because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Some local authorities have been forced to make changes to bin collections meanwhile , as staff have had to go into self isolation .
Cllr Fielding added that the council will arrange for the waste in Oldham to be removed , and is urging the community to report fly tipping .
He added : “ We will send officers down to look into this incident and if evidence is found then we will take action against those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the waste to be cleared .
Unfortunately , this will cost all those who pay Council Tax , at a time when money is needed elsewhere .
“ As a council our teams are doing their bit to keep the borough clean and our work is seeing results .
`` Over the last few years we ’ ve fined and prosecuted dozens of people for fly tipping and littering and last year Keep Britain Tidy gave our streets four out of five for cleanliness , after we boosted the number of workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now we are asking you to do your bit and report fly tipping to us.
” You can report fly tipping to Oldham council here .

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This is the disgraceful mess that has been piled high by fly tippers on a secluded road.
Photos and footage from Crime Lane in Oldham show a significant amount of rubbish carelessly discarded at the side of the secluded road.
It includes an old mattress, furniture, cardboard boxes, bags of clothes and what appears to be numerous bin bags of household and garden waste.
In some of the footage, a tractor can be seen trying to clear away some of the mess from where it has blocked the road.
Now, the leader of Oldham council has branded those responsible for the mess 'selfish' for breaking lockdown rules to go out fly tipping.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Councillor Sean Fielding says the people who did this 'would have done it even if recycling centres were still open.'
He said: “While our staff are working round the clock helping vulnerable members of our community, some idiots think it is ok to break the lockdown and go out and fly tip rubbish.
“Let’s be clear – incidents like this have nothing to do with the temporary closure of the waste and recycling centres.
“The selfish people who have dumped this waste would have done it even if they had been open.
"They don’t care that their actions have a really negative impact on the community".
Unfortunately, the spot is just one of many around Greater Manchester that has been blighted by fly tipping in recent days.
Footage has also captured piles of discarded household waste and toys dumped in Collyhurst in Manchester.
Manchester City Council has started an investigation after fly tipping was discovered on Sand Street and says it will prosecute those responsible.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
All recycling centres and tips are currently closed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Some local authorities have been forced to make changes to bin collections meanwhile, as staff have had to go into self isolation.
Cllr Fielding added that the council will arrange for the waste in Oldham to be removed, and is urging the community to report fly tipping.
He added: “We will send officers down to look into this incident and if evidence is found then we will take action against those responsible.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“We’ll arrange for the waste to be cleared. Unfortunately, this will cost all those who pay Council Tax, at a time when money is needed elsewhere.
“As a council our teams are doing their bit to keep the borough clean and our work is seeing results.
"Over the last few years we’ve fined and prosecuted dozens of people for fly tipping and littering and last year Keep Britain Tidy gave our streets four out of five for cleanliness, after we boosted the number of workers in our street cleaning team.
“Now we are asking you to do your bit and report fly tipping to us.”
You can report fly tipping to Oldham council here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Crooks using coronavirus to exploit the elderly, but police are onto them

Bogus tradesman targeted an pensioner while she was self isolating - but she was far from a “ vulnerable old dear ” , police say .
The crooks called on the 84-year-old woman at her home in Fallowfield .
They demanded money in exchange for jet washing her driveway , Greater Manchester Police said .
The pensioner - who is currently self isolating on her own - telephoned her neighbour for help and did n't part with any money .
“ Luckily she did n't part with any money and despite her age she was far from the vulnerable old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would easily be able to swindle ” officers on the GMP Fallowfield , Withington , Levenshulme and Burnage Facebook page wrote .
They have advised residents to look out for elderly neighbours in the midst of the coronavirus lockdown .
Officers also disclosed details of an incident involving an elderly man in Burnage .
They wrote : “ One neighbour , in Burnage , stated they had n't seen their elderly neighbour for days , and he had n't closed his curtains like he normally would and noticed other little routines had changed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus guidelines .
“ She stated she had n't slept all night worrying about him and rang us to see if we could help .
“ We did some checks and eventually managed to make contact with the male , who was inside his house and had been feeling poorly for days .
“ The lady then apologised to us for wasting our time .
Not at all ... ... if you have concerns , please phone us .
At least we can try and put your mind at rest , and stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The male was relieved to know he has good neighbours too looking out for him.
” They added : “ Please look out for your elderly neighbours .
Pass a note through their door , or knock on and speak through an open window or try and catch them in the garden .
`` Some may have no family , and others will have family who possibly can not visit them at this time .
“ We are all in this together , and through supporting and respecting one another , we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
”

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Bogus tradesman targeted an pensioner while she was self isolating - but she was far from a “vulnerable old dear”, police say.
The crooks called on the 84-year-old woman at her home in Fallowfield.
They demanded money in exchange for jet washing her driveway, Greater Manchester Police said.
The pensioner - who is currently self isolating on her own - telephoned her neighbour for help and didn't part with any money.
(Image: PA)
“Luckily she didn't part with any money and despite her age she was far from the vulnerable old dear that perhaps these males thought they would easily be able to swindle” officers on the GMP Fallowfield, Withington, Levenshulme and Burnage Facebook page wrote.
The incident happened last Thursday (March 26).
They have advised residents to look out for elderly neighbours in the midst of the coronavirus lockdown.
Officers also disclosed details of an incident involving an elderly man in Burnage.
(Image: M.E.N.)
They wrote: “One neighbour, in Burnage, stated they hadn't seen their elderly neighbour for days, and he hadn't closed his curtains like he normally would and noticed other little routines had changed - even since the implementation of the coronavirus guidelines.
“She stated she hadn't slept all night worrying about him and rang us to see if we could help.
“We did some checks and eventually managed to make contact with the male, who was inside his house and had been feeling poorly for days.
“The lady then apologised to us for wasting our time. Not at all...... if you have concerns, please phone us. At least we can try and put your mind at rest, and stop wondering and thinking endless possibilities.
“The male was relieved to know he has good neighbours too looking out for him.”
They added: “Please look out for your elderly neighbours. Pass a note through their door, or knock on and speak through an open window or try and catch them in the garden.
"Some may have no family, and others will have family who possibly cannot visit them at this time.
“We are all in this together, and through supporting and respecting one another, we will all come out of this together hopefully.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Robin van Persie reveals why he rejected Man City for Man Utd move

Robin van Persie has revealed he rejected the chance to sign for in order to complete a switch to to work with Sir Alex Ferguson .
Van Persie was a target for both Manchester clubs after the Dutchman revealed his desire to leave Arsenal and the Gunners were forced to meet his demands due to his expiring contract .
The forward penned a four-year contact at Old Trafford in August 2012 and helped the Reds secure the title at the end of his first season at the club .
Van Persie revealed things could have been much different as he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fierce rivals but opted to reject their advances due to the prospect of working under legendary manager .
`` I had two other options , '' he told sofoot .
`` Juventus and Manchester City .
`` At this point , it is a reflection that begins , you weigh the pros and cons between the positive and the negative of each choice .
`` But I had always had positive feelings towards Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United . ''
Back in 2012 , then Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirmed City approached @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significantly increase his wages .
He said : `` It is true that Manchester City [ were ] interested in him and he has chosen to go to United '' On the contract offer , Wenger added : `` He could come out more on the reasons but I did n't want to know more about that .
`` Does it hurt more that he left for another English club ?
That is not exactly what I wished !
I hope the reception for him is a respectful one because he has played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has done very well for us . ''

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Robin van Persie has revealed he rejected the chance to sign for Manchester City in order to complete a switch to Manchester United to work with Sir Alex Ferguson.
Van Persie was a target for both Manchester clubs after the Dutchman revealed his desire to leave Arsenal and the Gunners were forced to meet his demands due to his expiring contract.
The forward penned a four-year contact at Old Trafford in August 2012 and helped the Reds secure the Premier League title at the end of his first season at the club.
Van Persie revealed things could have been much different as he had the opportunity to join United's fierce rivals but opted to reject their advances due to the prospect of working under legendary manager Ferguson .
"I had two other options," he told sofoot. "Juventus and Manchester City.
"At this point, it is a reflection that begins, you weigh the pros and cons between the positive and the negative of each choice.
"But I had always had positive feelings towards Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United."
Back in 2012, then Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirmed City approached the forward over a transfer that would significantly increase his wages.
He said: "It is true that Manchester City [were] interested in him and he has chosen to go to United"
On the contract offer, Wenger added: "He could come out more on the reasons but I didn't want to know more about that.
"Does it hurt more that he left for another English club? That is not exactly what I wished! I hope the reception for him is a respectful one because he has played for us for eight years, he has done very well for us."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--Chief medic apologises over delays in getting PPE to frontline NHS staff

A leading medic apologised for giving people hope that the shortage of protective equipment for frontline staff in the battle against coronavirus had been resolved .
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Jenny Harries admitted that distribution had been 'tricky at times ' during the daily press conference on Covid-19 on Tuesday .
Scores of nurses and doctors have complained in recent weeks that they have not been equipped with the correct protective clothing when treating coronavirus patients .
It followed a comment by Dr Harries more than a week ago , where she claimed the situation had been sorted .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the issues have is , I stood here about 10 days ago , and I think very , probably optimistically in the past said we 've solved the PPE position .
`` So my apologies because 48 hours later I think our distribution issue popped back in again . ''
She said the government has been working to resolve the problem , with the help of the army .
She added : `` So the distribution element has been a little bit tricky at times and we have now taken a whole strand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ army support actually , so that we are developing a UK position on that stock and distribution flow .
“ And the underlying critical point about this is that the PPE should go to match where the critical , clinical risk is.
” Dr Harries said they have made 'tweaks ' to make sure staff feel like they are being properly protected when they treat patients .
Addressing the concerns of staff , she said : “ We are very attuned to this and what we ’ ve been doing over the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see if , although we ’ re quite satisfied with the technical basis of it , if we can make some small tweaks if you like to ensure that people feel safer in what they are doing .
“ And we ’ re addressing that over the current period.
” Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https : //www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/

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A leading medic apologised for giving people hope that the shortage of protective equipment for frontline staff in the battle against coronavirus had been resolved.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Jenny Harries admitted that distribution had been 'tricky at times' during the daily press conference on Covid-19 on Tuesday.
Scores of nurses and doctors have complained in recent weeks that they have not been equipped with the correct protective clothing when treating coronavirus patients.
It followed a comment by Dr Harries more than a week ago, where she claimed the situation had been sorted.
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Dr Harries said: "One of the issues have is, I stood here about 10 days ago, and I think very, probably optimistically in the past said we've solved the PPE position.
"So my apologies because 48 hours later I think our distribution issue popped back in again."
She said the government has been working to resolve the problem, with the help of the army.
She added: "So the distribution element has been a little bit tricky at times and we have now taken a whole strand of the logistics, including with the army support actually, so that we are developing a UK position on that stock and distribution flow.
“And the underlying critical point about this is that the PPE should go to match where the critical, clinical risk is.”
Dr Harries said they have made 'tweaks' to make sure staff feel like they are being properly protected when they treat patients.
Addressing the concerns of staff, she said: “We are very attuned to this and what we’ve been doing over the last few days is reviewing our guidance to see if, although we’re quite satisfied with the technical basis of it, if we can make some small tweaks if you like to ensure that people feel safer in what they are doing.
“And we’re addressing that over the current period.”
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes https://www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-31--What fans need to know about this week's Premier League meeting

The Premier League is set to hold a meeting on Friday to discuss what measures could be put in ensure the 2019-20 season is concluded .
The Premier League campaign was initially suspended until April 3 almost three weeks ago before the Football Association decided to extend that suspension until April 30 due to the severity of the coronavirus outbreak .
However , it is looking increasingly unlikely that the season will resume at the end of April , with a new date set to be decided for the restart of the campaign .
The Premier League will host its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential restart date and a whole host of other topics that will be requiring answers from clubs .
Here , we have outlined some of the key questions that you may be asking yourselves as to what will be up for discussion at Friday ’ s meeting .
When will the meeting take place ?
The Premier League ’ s latest meeting will take place on Friday , April 3 , and is set to involve all of the league 's stakeholders and will be carried out via a conference call .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main purpose of the meeting will be to discuss what the future may hold for the remainder of the 2019/20 Premier League campaign .
As mentioned above , the campaign , as things stand , is currently on hold until April 30 , at the very earliest , with the likelihood of that date being pushed back even further .
The Premier League , as things stand , have no plans to declare the season null and void , as they , like the vast majority of the league ’ s clubs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Since the last meeting , a whole host of reports have emerged about what the future may hold .
The Premier League may offer clarity on those reports and deliver an official plan on what is likely to happen .
As well as the matter of when the season is likely to be finalised , the meeting may also see the summer transfer window discussed , as dates are almost certain to be forced to be changed because of the delay .
The men ’ s transfer window in England and Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is almost certain to go on beyond that date .
Another topic set to be up for discussion is the subject of player contracts .
Since the campaign was suspended at the beginning of March , a whole host of questions about players that are out-of-contract this summer have been asked .
Players coming to the end of their contracts this summer are currently due to see their deals expire on June 30 .
What has already been said ?
On March 27 , the Professional Footballers ’ Association [ PFA ] , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a joint statement confirming that they plan to work in tandem in regards to the financial implications that clubs may face because of the COVID-19 crisis .
That statement said : “ The Premier League , EFL and PFA met today and discussed the growing seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ It was stressed that the thoughts of all three organisations continue to be with everyone affected by the virus .
“ The Premier League , EFL and PFA agreed that difficult decisions will have to be taken in order to mitigate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of professional football in England and agreed to work together to arrive at shared solutions .
“ The leagues will not recommence until 30 April at the earliest .
They will only do so when it is safe and conditions allow .
“ Further meetings will take place next week with a view to formulating a joint plan to deal with the difficult circumstances facing the leagues , their clubs , players , staff and fans .
”

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The Premier League is set to hold a meeting on Friday to discuss what measures could be put in ensure the 2019-20 season is concluded.
The Premier League campaign was initially suspended until April 3 almost three weeks ago before the Football Association decided to extend that suspension until April 30 due to the severity of the coronavirus outbreak.
However, it is looking increasingly unlikely that the season will resume at the end of April, with a new date set to be decided for the restart of the campaign.
The Premier League will host its next meeting on Friday to discuss a potential restart date and a whole host of other topics that will be requiring answers from clubs.
Here, we have outlined some of the key questions that you may be asking yourselves as to what will be up for discussion at Friday’s meeting.
When will the meeting take place?
The Premier League’s latest meeting will take place on Friday, April 3, and is set to involve all of the league's stakeholders and will be carried out via a conference call.
What will be on the agenda?
The main purpose of the meeting will be to discuss what the future may hold for the remainder of the 2019/20 Premier League campaign.
As mentioned above, the campaign, as things stand, is currently on hold until April 30, at the very earliest, with the likelihood of that date being pushed back even further.
The Premier League, as things stand, have no plans to declare the season null and void, as they, like the vast majority of the league’s clubs, want the season to reach a conclusion.
Since the last meeting, a whole host of reports have emerged about what the future may hold. The Premier League may offer clarity on those reports and deliver an official plan on what is likely to happen.
As well as the matter of when the season is likely to be finalised, the meeting may also see the summer transfer window discussed, as dates are almost certain to be forced to be changed because of the delay.
The men’s transfer window in England and Scotland opens on June 10 and the season is almost certain to go on beyond that date.
Another topic set to be up for discussion is the subject of player contracts. Since the campaign was suspended at the beginning of March, a whole host of questions about players that are out-of-contract this summer have been asked.
Players coming to the end of their contracts this summer are currently due to see their deals expire on June 30.
What has already been said?
On March 27, the Professional Footballers’ Association [PFA], the Premier League and EFL all issued a joint statement confirming that they plan to work in tandem in regards to the financial implications that clubs may face because of the COVID-19 crisis.
That statement said: “The Premier League, EFL and PFA met today and discussed the growing seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was stressed that the thoughts of all three organisations continue to be with everyone affected by the virus.
“The Premier League, EFL and PFA agreed that difficult decisions will have to be taken in order to mitigate the economic impact of the current suspension of professional football in England and agreed to work together to arrive at shared solutions.
“The leagues will not recommence until 30 April at the earliest. They will only do so when it is safe and conditions allow.
“Further meetings will take place next week with a view to formulating a joint plan to deal with the difficult circumstances facing the leagues, their clubs, players, staff and fans.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--New arena next to the Etihad Stadium moves step closer - and new images

A planning application for a huge new indoor concert and sports arena in Manchester has been formally submitted .
And bosses behind the plans say analysis which has formed part of the proposals show the city CAN sustain two enormous venues .
Detailed plans for a new arena , with a maximum capacity of 23,500-capacity , next to Manchester City'sEtihad Stadium have been submitted to the council and are available for the public to view along with new images of what it will look like .
It is not yet known when a decision will be made with no date @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council 's planning committee .
Those behind the planned £350m privately-funded facility - which would become the biggest in Britain - commissioned market reports into the effect the mammoth development would have on the current arena and Manchester 's economy .
They claim it could be worth over half a billion pounds to the city 's economy over a 20 year period .
Oak View Group ( OVG ) bosses say reports they have commissioned as part of the planning process 'show that Manchester ’ s economic and cultural strength supports two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most conservative growth forecasts see a new arena succeeding without undermining the viability of the Manchester Arena ' .
The existing arena have criticised the timing of the application and say they hope the plans still receive `` proper scrutiny . ''
They have also cited separate analysis which suggests a new arena could 'devastate ' the city centre economy .
The proposal for a second arena has proved hugely controversial since it first emerged in a masterplan for the Eastlands area last year .
Manchester Arena bosses said they believe a rival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business .
OVG say that is not their intention .
They say they want the two venues to co-exist .
The American firm has , with the support of Man City 's owners the City Football Group , carried out feasibility studies into their plans for a new arena on a 5.5 acre piece of land on the Etihad Campus , bordering the Alan Turing Way and the Ashton Canal , since last year .
Bosses say analysis by consultancy firms Price Waterhouse Cooper ( PWC ) and Ekosgen , details of which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , highlight the 'market case ' for a venue citing several examples in the UK in which two arenas in close proximity operating on a 'commercially viable basis ' .
The opening of a new arena has never caused an existing arena to be shut in a 'single city or catchment area ' , OVG says .
The developer says other cities are 'threatening to leave Manchester behind ' because they have more capacity and flexibility when it comes to putting on big shows they claim .
As well as music and awards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also likely to attract big indoor sporting events such as ice hockey , basketball , boxing , tennis , handball and mixed martial arts ( MMA ) such as the UFC .
The maximum capacity at the facility , which will have large areas of retractable seating on its lower level , would most frequently be 20,000 they say however it could be extended to 23,500 for a `` small number of events '' where a centre stage configuration is used .
The plans say : `` Close seat proximity to the event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intimate and engaging experience .
`` In comparison to other flagship venues , the proposed development will provide an improved visitor experience by bringing everyone significantly closer to the performance , but with the atmosphere of a large venue . ''
For the first time it has been revealed the arena , which would be illuminated by LED lights on its facade , would be accompanied by its own `` supporting retail and leisure offer '' including bars , retail concessions , pop-up retail spaces , hospitality spaces and lounges .
However the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concluded a new arena in east Manchester , despite being situated around two miles out of the city centre , would generate 'significant additional economic benefits ' centrally located for city centre hotels , serviced accommodation , food and drink outlets and shops .
They estimate it would see an increase at least 58 per cent , and potentially up to 95 per cent , on the city 's current gross added value ( GVA ) .
And they estimate it would generate an additional £36 million per year in direct annual local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of around 1,400 jobs .
Tim Leiweke , co-founder and chief executive of Oak View Group , said in a statement released to coincide with their submission : “ Manchester is a thriving city with an iconic history of world-leading music , sport and live entertainment .
We live in unprecedented times and we stand in solidarity with everyone affected .
`` We obviously have a particular concern for those who work in the live entertainment industry , which is hugely impacted by the current situation .
`` But I know Manchester , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stronger from whatever has hit it .
We are 100 % committed for the long-haul .
`` The city has undergone transformational growth in recent years , but without a new state-of-the-art arena it will continue to lose out to other cities on some of the world ’ s best events .
`` Our design brief for the new arena was three-fold .
`` We want to deliver the best in class artist-fan experience for any arena in Europe ; to have the flexibility to accommodate multiple event types so Manchester can host @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and entertainment events ; and to aim to build the most sustainable arena in the UK .
“ We knew that to be a success , our proposals for a new venue needed to work alongside the existing arena , ensure a demonstrable socio-economic uplift for the city , and support the ongoing regeneration efforts underway in east Manchester .
`` We are pleased that in-depth studies , with industry trends , economic data and growth forecasts all interrogated , indicate that Manchester could support two successful arenas , even under the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re also incredibly grateful for the guidance and feedback from local people and the city ’ s business community over the last seven months .
`` We are confident the plans we are presenting today are extremely beneficial for the city and will put Manchester on the global entertainment map for decades.
” It is said the project will see around 3,500 jobs created during the construction phase and around 1,000 jobs when it opens - which could be as early as 2023 , though it is unclear how the current coronavirus crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will prioritise hiring people who live within walking distance of the venue - and that they will be paid the Manchester Living Wage .
The requirements of ‘ Martyn ’ s Law ’ - brought about following a campaign by the mother of Manchester Arena bombing victim Martyn Hett for increased security measures at venues - will be incorporated into the licensing conditions .
The existing Manchester Arena , which cost £52m when it opened in 1995 , announced earlier this month plans of their own for a major upgrade to mark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refurbishment would increase capacity to 24,500 and eventually make it the biggest indoor arena in Europe .
Artwork released by operators ASM Global showed new concourses and levels within the building ; a floor dedicated to VIP boxes and lounges ; and a grass-covered roof .
Restaurants and bars would feature on the 'event floor ' , while there would be space dedicated to selling merchandise .
There are also plans for a memorial to those who lost their lives in the May 2017 terrorist atrocity .
The budget and time frame for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They said in a statement today : `` We are carefully reviewing the application documents that have been put forward alongside claims OVG has previously made around the impact to Greater Manchester ’ s transport , environment and economy .
`` The independent analysis on this from Oxford Economics and Grant Thornton is clear ; that two 20,000 capacity arenas in Manchester are not sustainable and will drive events and footfall to an out of town location , with devastating effects to the city centre economy and the region ’ s air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the same city elsewhere , they are not both in excess of 21,000 capacity .
In London , there is one venue at 20,000 and a smaller venue at 12,500 , with a population three times the size of Manchester .
In Birmingham , there are two significantly smaller venues than Manchester Arena , operated by the same company , with total ticket sales across the two venues being equal to that of Manchester Arena .
`` We sincerely hope that despite being submitted at a time of national crisis when attention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , this application will still receive proper scrutiny '' We would urge the Council to carefully consider whether now is the time to approve plans that will further jeopardise our City Centre .
We need to stand together to protect culture , entertainment and hospitality in the heart of Manchester .
”

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A planning application for a huge new indoor concert and sports arena in Manchester has been formally submitted.
And bosses behind the plans say analysis which has formed part of the proposals show the city CAN sustain two enormous venues.
Bosses at the Manchester Arena don't agree.
Detailed plans for a new arena, with a maximum capacity of 23,500-capacity, next to Manchester City's Etihad Stadium were submitted to the council a number of weeks ago.
They are now available for the public to view along with new images of what it will look like.
It is not yet known when a decision will be made with no date yet set for it to go before the council's planning committee.
Those behind the planned £350m privately-funded facility - which would become the biggest in Britain - commissioned market reports into the effect the mammoth development would have on the current arena and Manchester's economy.
(Image: Oak View Group)
They claim it could be worth over half a billion pounds to the city's economy over a 20 year period.
Oak View Group (OVG) bosses say reports they have commissioned as part of the planning process 'show that Manchester’s economic and cultural strength supports two successful arenas' and that 'even the most conservative growth forecasts see a new arena succeeding without undermining the viability of the Manchester Arena'.
The existing arena have criticised the timing of the application and say they hope the plans still receive "proper scrutiny."
They have also cited separate analysis which suggests a new arena could 'devastate' the city centre economy.
The proposal for a second arena has proved hugely controversial since it first emerged in a masterplan for the Eastlands area last year.
(Image: Oak View Group)
Manchester Arena bosses said they believe a rival venue could force them out of the business.
OVG say that is not their intention. They say they want the two venues to co-exist.
The American firm has, with the support of Man City's owners the City Football Group, carried out feasibility studies into their plans for a new arena on a 5.5 acre piece of land on the Etihad Campus, bordering the Alan Turing Way and the Ashton Canal, since last year.
Bosses say analysis by consultancy firms Price Waterhouse Cooper (PWC) and Ekosgen, details of which have been released for the first time, highlight the 'market case' for a venue citing several examples in the UK in which two arenas in close proximity operating on a 'commercially viable basis'.
The opening of a new arena has never caused an existing arena to be shut in a 'single city or catchment area', OVG says.
The developer says other cities are 'threatening to leave Manchester behind' because they have more capacity and flexibility when it comes to putting on big shows they claim.
As well as music and awards they say its adaptability will see it also likely to attract big indoor sporting events such as ice hockey, basketball, boxing, tennis, handball and mixed martial arts (MMA) such as the UFC.
The maximum capacity at the facility, which will have large areas of retractable seating on its lower level, would most frequently be 20,000 they say however it could be extended to 23,500 for a "small number of events" where a centre stage configuration is used.
The plans say: "Close seat proximity to the event performance space is essential to creating an intimate and engaging experience.
(Image: The Oak View Group (OVG))
"In comparison to other flagship venues, the proposed development will provide an improved visitor experience by bringing everyone significantly closer to the performance, but with the atmosphere of a large venue."
For the first time it has been revealed the arena, which would be illuminated by LED lights on its facade, would be accompanied by its own "supporting retail and leisure offer" including bars, retail concessions, pop-up retail spaces, hospitality spaces and lounges.
(Image: The Oak View Group (OVG))
However the Ekosgen analysis cited in the application has concluded a new arena in east Manchester, despite being situated around two miles out of the city centre, would generate 'significant additional economic benefits' centrally located for city centre hotels, serviced accommodation, food and drink outlets and shops.
They estimate it would see an increase at least 58 per cent, and potentially up to 95 per cent, on the city's current gross added value (GVA).
And they estimate it would generate an additional £36 million per year in direct annual local spending could indirectly lead to the creation of around 1,400 jobs.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
Tim Leiweke, co-founder and chief executive of Oak View Group, said in a statement released to coincide with their submission: “Manchester is a thriving city with an iconic history of world-leading music, sport and live entertainment. We live in unprecedented times and we stand in solidarity with everyone affected.
"We obviously have a particular concern for those who work in the live entertainment industry, which is hugely impacted by the current situation.
"But I know Manchester, and this city has always come back stronger from whatever has hit it. We are 100% committed for the long-haul.
"The city has undergone transformational growth in recent years, but without a new state-of-the-art arena it will continue to lose out to other cities on some of the world’s best events.
(Image: The Oak View Group (OVG))
"Our design brief for the new arena was three-fold.
"We want to deliver the best in class artist-fan experience for any arena in Europe; to have the flexibility to accommodate multiple event types so Manchester can host a broader range of music, sport and entertainment events; and to aim to build the most sustainable arena in the UK.
“We knew that to be a success, our proposals for a new venue needed to work alongside the existing arena, ensure a demonstrable socio-economic uplift for the city, and support the ongoing regeneration efforts underway in east Manchester.
(Image: The Oak View Group (OVG))
"We are pleased that in-depth studies, with industry trends, economic data and growth forecasts all interrogated, indicate that Manchester could support two successful arenas, even under the most conservative growth projections.
“We’re also incredibly grateful for the guidance and feedback from local people and the city’s business community over the last seven months.
"We are confident the plans we are presenting today are extremely beneficial for the city and will put Manchester on the global entertainment map for decades.”
(Image: The Oak View Group (OVG))
It is said the project will see around 3,500 jobs created during the construction phase and around 1,000 jobs when it opens - which could be as early as 2023, though it is unclear how the current coronavirus crisis may affect that timeline.
OVG say they will prioritise hiring people who live within walking distance of the venue - and that they will be paid the Manchester Living Wage.
The requirements of ‘Martyn’s Law’ - brought about following a campaign by the mother of Manchester Arena bombing victim Martyn Hett for increased security measures at venues - will be incorporated into the licensing conditions.
The existing Manchester Arena, which cost £52m when it opened in 1995, announced earlier this month plans of their own for a major upgrade to mark its 25th anniversary.
Bosses said the refurbishment would increase capacity to 24,500 and eventually make it the biggest indoor arena in Europe.
Artwork released by operators ASM Global showed new concourses and levels within the building; a floor dedicated to VIP boxes and lounges; and a grass-covered roof.
Restaurants and bars would feature on the 'event floor', while there would be space dedicated to selling merchandise.
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There are also plans for a memorial to those who lost their lives in the May 2017 terrorist atrocity.
The budget and time frame for the Manchester Arena project are still unclear.
Manchester Arena bosses said they hope the application will 'receive proper scrutiny'.
"We are carefully reviewing the application documents that have been put forward alongside claims OVG has previously made around the impact to Greater Manchester’s transport, environment and economy," they said in a statement.
"The independent analysis on this from Oxford Economics and Grant Thornton is clear; that two 20,000 capacity arenas in Manchester are not sustainable and will drive events and footfall to an out of town location, with devastating effects to the city centre economy and the region’s air quality.
"Where two arenas exist in the same city elsewhere, they are not both in excess of 21,000 capacity. In London, there is one venue at 20,000 and a smaller venue at 12,500, with a population three times the size of Manchester.
"In Birmingham, there are two significantly smaller venues than Manchester Arena, operated by the same company, with total ticket sales across the two venues being equal to that of Manchester Arena.
"We would urge the Council to carefully consider whether now is the time to approve plans that will further jeopardise our City Centre. We need to stand together to protect culture, entertainment and hospitality in the heart of Manchester.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-01--How to look after your relationship as you suddenly spend 24 hours together

The evolving coronavirus pandemic has forced people in the UK and across the world to stay indoors to help tackle the spread of the virus .
The latest social distancing advice means you ’ re no longer able to meet with friends in restaurants or bars ; you have to work from home if possible ; and there ’ s no retail therapy on offer as shops have closed their doors for the foreseeable .
For the first time ever for the majority of cohabiting couples , this means you ’ ll be with each other and your four walls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which is a true test for relationships up and down the country .
And if you and your boyfriend or girlfriend decided to move in together within the past few weeks to self-isolate under one roof , this could be a whole new and intense territory that you ’ re having to navigate .
You may learn new things about your partner as you ’ re exposed to their working environment or perhaps confronted with their slobbish tendencies - which could determine if your living styles are truly compatible .
On the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you that there ’ s definitely no place you ’ d rather be or that there isn ’ t any other person you ’ d rather be in quarantine with .
It ’ s the stuff of love poems .
While we ’ ve only been in lockdown for just over a week , couples have taken to Twitter to share how they ’ re coping with the new rules ; with some revealing that they ’ ve taken up new hobbies to keep things interesting , while others joke that they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of them becomes nocturnal .
Jokes aside , if you are genuinely worried that you and your partner may be arguing more amid the panic and fear over the crisis , or if you find you ’ re getting on top of one another and the spark is lost , then you could consider these tips from relationship expert Dr Kalanit Ben-Ari .
With a doctorate in Psychology , Dr Ben-Ari is also a certified advanced imago relationship therapist and creator of The Ready for Love courses , so she ’ s certainly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Although her tips may seem a bit out there , it ’ s probably worth a shot when you have nothing else better to do .
Here ’ s her six pieces of advice : “ Have a safe conversation about expectations , needs , plans and responsibilities to help you focus , regulate anxiety , and minimise conflict , ” Dr Ben-Ari begins .
She continues : “ Be aware that self-isolation means a change in the unspoken contract between you .
Talk about the rotation of household responsibilities , sharing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on .
“ Remember , it ’ s not what you say , but the way you say it , that will affect your relationship .
Safe conversation happens when we talk as equals , and from a place of love and respect and doesn ’ t just focus on what you want to get out of the conversation.
” “ Ask yourself , what are the new possibilities/opportunities we can glean from this situation ?
What story do I want to tell about this time when I look back on it in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become your vision , and your actions and behaviour going forward should be in line with it .
“ Extreme situations like this can offer us clarity .
As the regular day-to-day routine is pulled from under our feet , we realise our own humanity - longing to survive and connect , and reminds ourselves of what is really important in life .
“ This situation offers us a possibility to maintain an honest and close emotional conversation with our children , to strengthen their ( and our ) resilience , cognitive flexibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high at the moment , so investing in romance is a wise thing to do .
Leave your partner a note to find , introduce role-play to intimate scenarios , send them a thoughtful text .
“ This is as hard for them as it is for you and you both want to come out the other side happy and healthy so be patient and kind .
Talk about exciting future plans , reminisce about past experiences , delve into deep conversation .
“ And remember to keep moving – dance together , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regulate your nerve system and clear your mind .
Commit daily time for pleasure and high energy fun and your brain will start to associate your partner with pleasure again.
” “ Everyone is stressed , some by the virus itself , some by fear of losing money or their job , and many are worried for vulnerable family members .
The behaviours we see with those closest to us will often demonstrate how they ’ re regulating their anxiety .
“ This is not the time to raise challenging topics in your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what they need from you at this time and offer that with love and compassion .
“ Express daily appreciation for something they did or who they are .
Do n't add unnecessary stress by criticising their way of coping and managing things .
“ This is the time to practice emotional flexibility , letting go , bringing the best version of ourselves to the table and being there for others regardless of their behaviour.
” Dr Ben-Ari added : “ Above all else - be kind , compassionate and loving.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to connect .
It might be the photo album you ’ ve been meaning to put together , or planning next year ’ s holiday .
“ Think about the hobby or skill you ’ ve wanted to learn together but never had the time .
Now is the time .
A project gives purpose .
Purpose keeps you vital , positive and active , all of which are important for your happiness and wellbeing.
” 6 .
Start and end the day with gratitude , appreciation and a hug On a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Every morning start your day with a hug ( for one minute if you can ) .
“ Take deep and full breaths in sync with your partner to really feel a connection and think about the things you are grateful for .
“ Maybe it ’ s your health , your family , clean running water - appreciate the basics .
Think about your intentions for the relationship that day and how you can show up for your partner and children ( if you have them ) .
“ At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with deep breaths and express appreciation for your partner .
Make it specific with something new each day .
This will not only fill your partner full of love , it will focus your awareness during the day for the positive aspects of your partner and situation.
” And there we have it .
Easily done ?
Let us know how you get on in the comments below .
On an important note , if you are self-isolating with an abusive partner , there are support options available to you .
Women ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avenues for help available on their website .

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Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
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Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
The evolving coronavirus pandemic has forced people in the UK and across the world to stay indoors to help tackle the spread of the virus.
The latest social distancing advice means you’re no longer able to meet with friends in restaurants or bars; you have to work from home if possible; and there’s no retail therapy on offer as shops have closed their doors for the foreseeable.
For the first time ever for the majority of cohabiting couples, this means you’ll be with each other and your four walls pretty much for 24 hours a day, which is a true test for relationships up and down the country.
And if you and your boyfriend or girlfriend decided to move in together within the past few weeks to self-isolate under one roof, this could be a whole new and intense territory that you’re having to navigate.
You may learn new things about your partner as you’re exposed to their working environment or perhaps confronted with their slobbish tendencies - which could determine if your living styles are truly compatible.
On the other hand, this period could reassure you that there’s definitely no place you’d rather be or that there isn’t any other person you’d rather be in quarantine with. It’s the stuff of love poems.
While we’ve only been in lockdown for just over a week, couples have taken to Twitter to share how they’re coping with the new rules; with some revealing that they’ve taken up new hobbies to keep things interesting, while others joke that they’ve switched their sleeping patterns so one of them becomes nocturnal.
Jokes aside, if you are genuinely worried that you and your partner may be arguing more amid the panic and fear over the crisis, or if you find you’re getting on top of one another and the spark is lost, then you could consider these tips from relationship expert Dr Kalanit Ben-Ari.
With a doctorate in Psychology, Dr Ben-Ari is also a certified advanced imago relationship therapist and creator of The Ready for Love courses, so she’s certainly one to follow in taking this seriously.
Although her tips may seem a bit out there, it’s probably worth a shot when you have nothing else better to do. Here’s her six pieces of advice:
(Image: Dr Ben-Ari)
1. Manage expectations
“Have a safe conversation about expectations, needs, plans and responsibilities to help you focus, regulate anxiety, and minimise conflict,” Dr Ben-Ari begins.
She continues: “Be aware that self-isolation means a change in the unspoken contract between you. Talk about the rotation of household responsibilities, sharing workspace, alone time and so on.
“Remember, it’s not what you say, but the way you say it, that will affect your relationship. Safe conversation happens when we talk as equals, and from a place of love and respect and doesn’t just focus on what you want to get out of the conversation.”
2. Stay Positive
“Ask yourself, what are the new possibilities/opportunities we can glean from this situation? What story do I want to tell about this time when I look back on it in years to come? Your answer will become your vision, and your actions and behaviour going forward should be in line with it.
“Extreme situations like this can offer us clarity. As the regular day-to-day routine is pulled from under our feet, we realise our own humanity - longing to survive and connect, and reminds ourselves of what is really important in life.
“This situation offers us a possibility to maintain an honest and close emotional conversation with our children, to strengthen their (and our) resilience, cognitive flexibility and connection.
(Image: PA)
3. Find the fun
“Tensions are running high at the moment, so investing in romance is a wise thing to do. Leave your partner a note to find, introduce role-play to intimate scenarios, send them a thoughtful text.
“This is as hard for them as it is for you and you both want to come out the other side happy and healthy so be patient and kind. Talk about exciting future plans, reminisce about past experiences, delve into deep conversation.
“And remember to keep moving – dance together, get into the bedroom! Movement helps regulate your nerve system and clear your mind. Commit daily time for pleasure and high energy fun and your brain will start to associate your partner with pleasure again.”
4. Practice letting go and self-soothing
“Everyone is stressed, some by the virus itself, some by fear of losing money or their job, and many are worried for vulnerable family members. The behaviours we see with those closest to us will often demonstrate how they’re regulating their anxiety.
“This is not the time to raise challenging topics in your relationship. Instead, ask your partner what they need from you at this time and offer that with love and compassion.
“Express daily appreciation for something they did or who they are. Don't add unnecessary stress by criticising their way of coping and managing things.
“This is the time to practice emotional flexibility, letting go, bringing the best version of ourselves to the table and being there for others regardless of their behaviour.”
Dr Ben-Ari added: “Above all else - be kind, compassionate and loving.”
(Image: handout)
5. Work towards a joint goal
“Having a project together is a great way to connect. It might be the photo album you’ve been meaning to put together, or planning next year’s holiday.
“Think about the hobby or skill you’ve wanted to learn together but never had the time. Now is the time. A project gives purpose. Purpose keeps you vital, positive and active, all of which are important for your happiness and wellbeing.”
6. Start and end the day with gratitude, appreciation and a hug
On a final note, Dr Ben-Ari advised: “Every morning start your day with a hug (for one minute if you can).
“Take deep and full breaths in sync with your partner to really feel a connection and think about the things you are grateful for.
“Maybe it’s your health, your family, clean running water - appreciate the basics. Think about your intentions for the relationship that day and how you can show up for your partner and children (if you have them).
“At the end of the day, hug again with deep breaths and express appreciation for your partner. Make it specific with something new each day. This will not only fill your partner full of love, it will focus your awareness during the day for the positive aspects of your partner and situation.”
And there we have it. Easily done? Let us know how you get on in the comments below.
On an important note, if you are self-isolating with an abusive partner, there are support options available to you.
Refuge: 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline - 0808 2000 247.
Women’s Aid: A number of different avenues for help available on their website.