themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Devastated mum of Arena victim slams 'coward' Hashem Abedi

The mother of a Bury support worker who died in the Manchester Arena terror attack has slammed 'coward ' Hashem Abedi for failing to appear in court when he was convicted of helping his suicide bomber brother carry out mass murder .
A jury took less then four hours to convict Abedi of 22 counts of murder , attempted murder concerning those who were injured but survived the blast and conspiring with his brother Salman to cause an explosion following a seven week trial at the Old Bailey in London .
Hashem Abedi , from Fallowfield , was 2,000 miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an improvised explosive device ( IED ) packed with shrapnel in his backpack as concert-goers were leaving an Ariana Grande gig at the Arena on May 22 , 2017 , killing himself and 22 others but also injuring hundreds more .
The jury , by their verdict , agreed Hashem Abedi had encouraged his sibling to carry out the ISIS-inspired attack and helped him make the bomb in the months before the attack .
But the west-hating son of Libyan refugees boycotted the last few weeks of the trial , sacking his defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at HMP Belmarsh where he was on remand .
He was n't in the dock when the jury announced their verdicts to the sound of sobbing from the public gallery .
After the verdicts , the mother of Arena victim John Atkinson , who was 28 when he died , described how she struggled to breathe at the moment the defendant was found guilty as she watched the proceedings remotely at a courtroom at Manchester Crown Court along with other relatives .
John , a support worker from Radcliffe who was described as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concert early with his friend Gemma O'Donnell and the pair were crossing the foyer when Salman Abedi detonated the IED .
He was conscious and talked to first-aiders but died just after midnight at Manchester Royal infirmary .
He went into cardiac arrest and was given heart massage , blood transfusions and adrenaline , but these could not save him .
He suffered suffered catastrophic shrapnel injuries and bleeding .
His mother Daryl Price had wanted to look Abedi in the eye at the moment of truth but the absent defendant was 'too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she said Daryl said : “ We welcome the verdict but it doesn ’ t change what ’ s happened , it won ’ t bring John back .
`` There is no justice for what Abedi did and there never will be , but it does feel like a weight has been lifted .
`` The last few weeks have been draining , both mentally and physically , and when the jury read out their decision it felt like somebody had kicked me in the stomach .
I was expecting it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of me , I couldn ’ t breathe for a few seconds .
`` I am annoyed that he couldn ’ t make an appearance in court to face those people whose lives he ruined .
I had planned to go to London for the verdict , I wanted to look him right in the eye , but he is too much of a coward for that .
`` I would like to thank all the family liaison officers and court staff in Manchester for their support over the last seven weeks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Slater and Gordon which represents 11 of the bereaved families , added : “ Families have waited a long time to see Hashem Abedi face justice for his crimes and I think the overwhelming emotion for most will be one of relief that he can not hurt anyone else .
“ It has been incredibly painful for them to hear , in detail , what happened to their loved ones and the calculated way in which the Abedi brothers plotted to end their lives .
The frequent delays and disruption Abedi has orchestrated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added to their distress .
`` But they can now turn their attention to the inquiry and I think that , for many , is the part that will answer their questions .
They know what happened but the inquiry will examine the how and why and whether there is anything that could have prevented or minimised the devastation caused by this attack ” .

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The mother of a Bury support worker who died in the Manchester Arena terror attack has slammed 'coward' Hashem Abedi for failing to appear in court when he was convicted of helping his suicide bomber brother carry out mass murder.
A jury took less then four hours to convict Abedi of 22 counts of murder, attempted murder concerning those who were injured but survived the blast and conspiring with his brother Salman to cause an explosion following a seven week trial at the Old Bailey in London.
Hashem Abedi, from Fallowfield, was 2,000 miles away in Libya when his brother detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) packed with shrapnel in his backpack as concert-goers were leaving an Ariana Grande gig at the Arena on May 22, 2017, killing himself and 22 others but also injuring hundreds more.
The jury, by their verdict, agreed Hashem Abedi had encouraged his sibling to carry out the ISIS-inspired attack and helped him make the bomb in the months before the attack.
(Image: GMP)
But the west-hating son of Libyan refugees boycotted the last few weeks of the trial, sacking his defence team and refusing to leave his cell at HMP Belmarsh where he was on remand.
He wasn't in the dock when the jury announced their verdicts to the sound of sobbing from the public gallery.
After the verdicts, the mother of Arena victim John Atkinson, who was 28 when he died, described how she struggled to breathe at the moment the defendant was found guilty as she watched the proceedings remotely at a courtroom at Manchester Crown Court along with other relatives.
John, a support worker from Radcliffe who was described as a 'beautiful soul', left the concert early with his friend Gemma O'Donnell and the pair were crossing the foyer when Salman Abedi detonated the IED.
He was conscious and talked to first-aiders but died just after midnight at Manchester Royal infirmary. He went into cardiac arrest and was given heart massage, blood transfusions and adrenaline, but these could not save him. He suffered suffered catastrophic shrapnel injuries and bleeding.
His mother Daryl Price had wanted to look Abedi in the eye at the moment of truth but the absent defendant was 'too much of a coward for that', she said
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
Daryl said: “We welcome the verdict but it doesn’t change what’s happened, it won’t bring John back.
"There is no justice for what Abedi did and there never will be, but it does feel like a weight has been lifted.
"The last few weeks have been draining, both mentally and physically, and when the jury read out their decision it felt like somebody had kicked me in the stomach. I was expecting it but it still knocked the wind out of me, I couldn’t breathe for a few seconds.
"I am annoyed that he couldn’t make an appearance in court to face those people whose lives he ruined. I had planned to go to London for the verdict, I wanted to look him right in the eye, but he is too much of a coward for that.
"I would like to thank all the family liaison officers and court staff in Manchester for their support over the last seven weeks."
(Image: M.E.N.)
Victoria Higgins, senior associate at Slater and Gordon which represents 11 of the bereaved families, added: “Families have waited a long time to see Hashem Abedi face justice for his crimes and I think the overwhelming emotion for most will be one of relief that he cannot hurt anyone else.
“It has been incredibly painful for them to hear, in detail, what happened to their loved ones and the calculated way in which the Abedi brothers plotted to end their lives. The frequent delays and disruption Abedi has orchestrated during an already lengthy trial has only added to their distress.
"But they can now turn their attention to the inquiry and I think that, for many, is the part that will answer their questions. They know what happened but the inquiry will examine the how and why and whether there is anything that could have prevented or minimised the devastation caused by this attack”.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Man shot after 'being lured to an ambush'

A man was shot after he was lured into an ambush .
The 32-year-old victim was one of four men who pulled up in a red BMW on Oldham Road , in Miles Platting , Manchester .
Police believe they had arrived to meet two other men to resolve a dispute .
But after waiting a while the two men they had arranged to meet did not show up .
Two of the men in the BMW then got out of the car and began walking away .
But as they walked on Oldham Road they were ambushed from behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including a gunman , were involved in the attack .
Police believe the man who was shot was an innocent victim as he was not involved in the dispute but happened to be with others who were .
He staggered to Eastburn Avenue nearby , off Oldham Road , and knocked on a door of a stranger to ask for help .
The shooting was at 8.40pm on Sunday March 15 .
The victim was taken to hospital where he is in a stable condition .
He was shot with a handgun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right thigh with an entry and exit wound .
The shooting is not being linked to another at around 11.55pm on Friday March 13 on nearby Winstanley Road .
In connection with that incident , John Fleck , 31 , of Farnborough Road , Miles Platting , has been charged with a section 16A firearms offence .
Police were called to reports of a firearm being discharged in Winstanley Road .
Several shots were fired into the street .
Anyone with information on the Oldham Road shooting is asked to contact police on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of March 15 .

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A man was shot after he was lured into an ambush.
The 32-year-old victim was one of four men who pulled up in a red BMW on Oldham Road, in Miles Platting, Manchester.
Police believe they had arrived to meet two other men to resolve a dispute.
But after waiting a while the two men they had arranged to meet did not show up.
Two of the men in the BMW then got out of the car and began walking away.
But as they walked on Oldham Road they were ambushed from behind and one was shot.
Two men, including a gunman, were involved in the attack.
Police believe the man who was shot was an innocent victim as he was not involved in the dispute but happened to be with others who were.
He staggered to Eastburn Avenue nearby, off Oldham Road, and knocked on a door of a stranger to ask for help.
The shooting was at 8.40pm on Sunday March 15.
The victim was taken to hospital where he is in a stable condition.
He was shot with a handgun and suffered a wound to his upper right thigh with an entry and exit wound.
The shooting is not being linked to another at around 11.55pm on Friday March 13 on nearby Winstanley Road.
In connection with that incident, John Fleck, 31, of Farnborough Road, Miles Platting, has been charged with a section 16A firearms offence.
Police were called to reports of a firearm being discharged in Winstanley Road. Several shots were fired into the street.
Anyone with information on the Oldham Road shooting is asked to contact police on 0161-856-1146, quoting the incident number 2923 of March 15.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Who would be classed as a 'key worker' after school closures announced

From Friday , schools across the UK will close 'until further notice ' in response to the coronavirus pandemic .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said during his daily press conference that he hopes they can keep school closures to ‘ an absolute minimum ’ .
But he can not say how long this will last for .
He also urged parents not to leave children in the care of grandparents or older relatives who are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract Covid-19 .
Nurseries and private schools across the UK are also being asked to close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where it is needed .
However , the Prime Minister said that vulnerable children and the children of key-workers should turn up to their current school as normal on Monday , March 23 .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson also said during his announcement in Parliament today : `` I want to provide parents , students and staff with the certainty they need .
`` After schools shut their gates on Friday afternoon they will remain closed until further notice .
`` This will be for all children except to those of key workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
While the definition of key-worker was not discussed by Mr Johnson , this traditionally refers to NHS workers , police officers , supermarket delivery drivers and those who look after the vulnerable and elderly .
A full list has not yet been revealed by the Government but those classed as being a `` key worker '' could be expanded to include other professions such as social workers , firefighters and more .

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From Friday, schools across the UK will close 'until further notice' in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said during his daily press conference that he hopes they can keep school closures to ‘an absolute minimum’.
But he cannot say how long this will last for.
He also urged parents not to leave children in the care of grandparents or older relatives who are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract Covid-19.
Nurseries and private schools across the UK are also being asked to close too, with financial support being given where it is needed.
However, the Prime Minister said that vulnerable children and the children of key-workers should turn up to their current school as normal on Monday, March 23.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson also said during his announcement in Parliament today: "I want to provide parents, students and staff with the certainty they need.
"After schools shut their gates on Friday afternoon they will remain closed until further notice.
"This will be for all children except to those of key workers and where children who are most vulnerable."
While the definition of key-worker was not discussed by Mr Johnson, this traditionally refers to NHS workers, police officers, supermarket delivery drivers and those who look after the vulnerable and elderly.
A full list has not yet been revealed by the Government but those classed as being a "key worker" could be expanded to include other professions such as social workers, firefighters and more.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--New mum Gemma Winter's battle with postnatal depression on Coronation Street

New mum Gemma Winter has been struggling for months following the birth of her adorable quadruplets , and next week it 's clear that she 's suffering from postnatal depression on Coronation Street .
Gemma , played by Dolly-Rose Campbell , has a terrible dream in which she hurts her baby Aled .
Rushing downstairs in a panic she ’ s relieved to find her partner Chesney Brown feeding Aled , but is left deeply unnerved to think she might harm one of her babies .
When her health visitor later tells Gemma that daughter Cleo has lost weight and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gemma is left even more shaken .
When the health visitor quizzes Gemma about her state of mind Gemma insists that she ’ s fine , and as she leaves Gemma fights back tears .
Then there 's more turmoil on the cobbles when Gemma heads out to the yard to calm herself down but as the door closes behind her Gemma realises with horror that she ’ s locked out .
A panic-stricken Gemma tries to break the door down and arriving with Mother ’ s Day balloons , her mum Bernie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a distressed state .
Bernie forces the door and assures her the babies all fine but Gemma dissolves into floods of tears , branding herself an unfit mother .
When Gemma admits she ’ s exhausted but too afraid to sleep , Bernie insists she ’ ll move in to lend a hand but on the condition that Gemma sees a doctor .
Gemma agrees but makes Bernie promise not to tell Chesney , who is put out to find that his future mother-in-law has moved in .
Gemma plays down her depression @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she ’ s just overly tired .
Bernie is frustrated by her daughter ’ s refusal to accept help , berating Gemma for failing to tell the doctor that she ’ s suffering from postnatal depression .
And Chesney wants to know what mother and daughter are rowing about .
Fans have for a while been worried about Gemma , who gave birth to the quads Aled , Bryn , Cleo and Carys in October .
She felt down about not being able to return home straight away with her babies when they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a cable car in Llandudno .
The home she shares with Chesney and the babies was targeted by an arsonist while she was sleeping upstairs and luckily she and the quadruplets escaped when neighbour Abi Franklin put out the flames with a fire extinguisher .
Recently she and Chesney were told Aled had permanent profound hearing loss in both ears .
The doting mum was heartbroken to realise her son had never heard her tell him ' I love you ' like his siblings .
Postnatal depression can start at any point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and may develop suddenly or gradually .
Among the symptoms is speaking negatively all the time and claiming that they 're hopeless .
As well as postnatal depression , a number of other mental health conditions can also develop after giving birth including postpartum psychosis which has combination of bipolar-like symptoms of feeling depressed one moment and very happy the next , delusions and hallucinations .

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New mum Gemma Winter has been struggling for months following the birth of her adorable quadruplets, and next week it's clear that she's suffering from postnatal depression on Coronation Street.
Gemma, played by Dolly-Rose Campbell, has a terrible dream in which she hurts her baby Aled.
Rushing downstairs in a panic she’s relieved to find her partner Chesney Brown feeding Aled, but is left deeply unnerved to think she might harm one of her babies.
(Image: Coronation Street/ITV)
When her health visitor later tells Gemma that daughter Cleo has lost weight and needs to increase her formula milk, Gemma is left even more shaken.
When the health visitor quizzes Gemma about her state of mind Gemma insists that she’s fine, and as she leaves Gemma fights back tears.
Then there's more turmoil on the cobbles when Gemma heads out to the yard to calm herself down but as the door closes behind her Gemma realises with horror that she’s locked out.
(Image: ITV)
A panic-stricken Gemma tries to break the door down and arriving with Mother’s Day balloons, her mum Bernie is shocked to find Gemma in such a distressed state.
Bernie forces the door and assures her the babies all fine but Gemma dissolves into floods of tears, branding herself an unfit mother.
When Gemma admits she’s exhausted but too afraid to sleep,
Bernie insists she’ll move in to lend a hand but on the condition that Gemma sees a doctor.
(Image: ITV)
Gemma agrees but makes Bernie promise not to tell Chesney, who is put out to find that his future mother-in-law has moved in.
Gemma plays down her depression and assures Weatherfield GP Dr Susan Gaddas she’s just overly tired.
Bernie is frustrated by her daughter’s refusal to accept help, berating Gemma for failing to tell the doctor that she’s suffering from postnatal depression.
And Chesney wants to know what mother and daughter are rowing about.
Fans have for a while been worried about Gemma, who gave birth to the quads Aled, Bryn, Cleo and Carys in October.
She felt down about not being able to return home straight away with her babies when they arrived premature after she went into labour in a cable car in Llandudno.
The home she shares with Chesney and the babies was targeted by an arsonist while she was sleeping upstairs and luckily she and the quadruplets escaped when neighbour Abi Franklin put out the flames with a fire extinguisher.
Recently she and Chesney were told Aled had permanent profound hearing loss in both ears.
The doting mum was heartbroken to realise her son had never heard her tell him 'I love you' like his siblings.
Postnatal depression can start at any point in the first year after giving birth and may develop suddenly or gradually.
Among the symptoms is speaking negatively all the time and claiming that they're hopeless.
As well as postnatal depression, a number of other mental health conditions can also develop after giving birth including postpartum psychosis which has combination of bipolar-like symptoms of feeling depressed one moment and very happy the next, delusions and hallucinations.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Sixth person dies from coronavirus in Greater Manchester

A man in Tameside has died from coronavirus , bringing the total number of deaths in Greater Manchester to six .
The man was in his 80s and had an underlying health condition , the hospital trust said on Wednesday ( March 18 ) .
In a statement , a Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust said : “ Sadly , we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at our Hospital , and had tested positive for COVID-19 , has died .
“ The patient , was in his 80s and had underlying health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult and distressing time.
” It is believed that six people have now died after testing positive for the virus in Greater Manchester .
Three people have died at North Manchester General Hospital , including an 88-year-old man who had recently been to a party with people who had travelled to Italy for a ski trip .
A man in his 60s and a woman in her 70s also died at the hospital - both had underlying health conditions .
A man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hospital and a 91-year-old man died at Wythenshawe .
They both had underlying health conditions .
The death toll in the UK has now reached 104 after NHS England announced a further 32 deaths on Wednesday ( March 18 ) .
Read more of today 's top stories here As of Wednesday evening , there were 94 confirmed cases in Greater Manchester - up from 80 the day before - though the true number of cases is believed to be far higher .
The Department for Health said that 2,626 people have tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
People who suffer mild symptoms of coronavirus , or live with someone who does , are being told to stay at home and self-isolate and will not be tested .
If you live on your own , you should self-isolate for seven days , but if you live with others , you should all self-isolate for 14 days .

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A man in Tameside has died from coronavirus, bringing the total number of deaths in Greater Manchester to six.
The man was in his 80s and had an underlying health condition, the hospital trust said on Wednesday (March 18).
In a statement, a Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust said: “Sadly, we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at our Hospital, and had tested positive for COVID-19, has died.
“The patient, was in his 80s and had underlying health conditions.
“His family has been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult and distressing time.”
It is believed that six people have now died after testing positive for the virus in Greater Manchester.
Three people have died at North Manchester General Hospital, including an 88-year-old man who had recently been to a party with people who had travelled to Italy for a ski trip.
A man in his 60s and a woman in her 70s also died at the hospital - both had underlying health conditions.
A man in his 80s died at Tameside General Hospital and a 91-year-old man died at Wythenshawe.
They both had underlying health conditions.
The death toll in the UK has now reached 104 after NHS England announced a further 32 deaths on Wednesday (March 18).
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As of Wednesday evening, there were 94 confirmed cases in Greater Manchester - up from 80 the day before - though the true number of cases is believed to be far higher.
The Department for Health said that 2,626 people have tested positive for the virus in the UK.
People who suffer mild symptoms of coronavirus, or live with someone who does, are being told to stay at home and self-isolate and will not be tested.
If you live on your own, you should self-isolate for seven days, but if you live with others, you should all self-isolate for 14 days.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Landlords banned from evicting tenants over next three months

Tenants will be protected from eviction during the coronavirus outbreak , the Government has announced .
Emergency legislation will be introduced which bans landlords from starting eviction proceedings for renters in private or social accommodation over a three-month period , easing financial pressure on households across the UK .
In addition to the announcement made yesterday that homeowners will be entitled to a three-month mortgage payment holiday , this will also be extended to landlords whose tenants are experiencing financial difficulties due to Covid-19 .
The Government hopes this will alleviate the pressure on landlords , who will be concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will mean no unnecessary pressure is put on their tenants as a result .
It added that , at the end of the three-month period , landlords and tenants will be expected to work together to establish an affordable repayment plan , taking into account tenants ’ individual circumstances .
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP said : `` The government is clear – no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home , nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts .
`` These are extraordinary times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course worried about paying their rent and mortgage .
Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started .
`` These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring everyone gets the support they need at this very difficult time . ''
Over 20 million renters in England urgently need protection , the housing charity Shelter has found .
Without the emergency legislation , it is estimated that over 50,000 households could face eviction through the courts over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ renters have already been evicted by landlords .
According to the national housing charity Shelter , their services are already receiving daily calls for help from renters being threatened with eviction by their landlord because of the COVID-19 crisis .
This includes an NHS worker , and someone illegally evicted while on holiday in Italy .
One renter , who asked to remain anonymous , and works at an NHS hospital , had contacted Shelter to say that their landlord wants to evict them and the other tenants in the property because he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus off them .
The landlord has confirmed that unless a cure in found in the next few weeks , they 've all got to go .
Another renter had been evicted while on holiday in Italy without notice .
The landlord advised they were worried they would catch the virus , and this was the reason for the illegal eviction .
The tenant offered to self-isolate for 14 days elsewhere before returning to the property , but the landlord still refused .
Polly Neate , chief executive at Shelter , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stop renters being evicted from their homes during the coronavirus crisis , will come as a great relief to many people .
Without this decisive action tens of thousands of renters would have faced eviction in the coming months , while potentially trying to isolate and protect themselves and others .
“ At Shelter we ’ d already heard horror stories from terrified renters threatened with eviction by irresponsible landlords , including vital NHS workers .
Now this shocking behaviour will be stopped in its tracks .
“ The government has done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million renters in England who will benefit from this protection - which is a vital emergency measure to keep people safe and in their homes .
”

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Tenants will be protected from eviction during the coronavirus outbreak, the Government has announced.
Emergency legislation will be introduced which bans landlords from starting eviction proceedings for renters in private or social accommodation over a three-month period, easing financial pressure on households across the UK.
In addition to the announcement made yesterday that homeowners will be entitled to a three-month mortgage payment holiday, this will also be extended to landlords whose tenants are experiencing financial difficulties due to Covid-19.
The Government hopes this will alleviate the pressure on landlords, who will be concerned about meeting mortgage payments themselves, and will mean no unnecessary pressure is put on their tenants as a result.
It added that, at the end of the three-month period, landlords and tenants will be expected to work together to establish an affordable repayment plan, taking into account tenants’ individual circumstances.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP said: "The government is clear – no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home, nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts.
"These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage. Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started.
"These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring everyone gets the support they need at this very difficult time."
Over 20 million renters in England urgently need protection, the housing charity Shelter has found.
Without the emergency legislation, it is estimated that over 50,000 households could face eviction through the courts over the next six months.
But some renters have already been evicted by landlords.
According to the national housing charity Shelter, their services are already receiving daily calls for help from renters being threatened with eviction by their landlord because of the COVID-19 crisis.
This includes an NHS worker, and someone illegally evicted while on holiday in Italy.
One renter, who asked to remain anonymous, and works at an NHS hospital, had contacted Shelter to say that their landlord wants to evict them and the other tenants in the property because he's scared, he will contract the virus off them. The landlord has confirmed that unless a cure in found in the next few weeks, they've all got to go.
Another renter had been evicted while on holiday in Italy without notice. The landlord advised they were worried they would catch the virus, and this was the reason for the illegal eviction. The tenant offered to self-isolate for 14 days elsewhere before returning to the property, but the landlord still refused.
Polly Neate, chief executive at Shelter, said: “News the government is to legislate to stop renters being evicted from their homes during the coronavirus crisis, will come as a great relief to many people. Without this decisive action tens of thousands of renters would have faced eviction in the coming months, while potentially trying to isolate and protect themselves and others.
“At Shelter we’d already heard horror stories from terrified renters threatened with eviction by irresponsible landlords, including vital NHS workers. Now this shocking behaviour will be stopped in its tracks.
“The government has done the right thing. There are 20 million renters in England who will benefit from this protection - which is a vital emergency measure to keep people safe and in their homes.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--The CAS options that could speed up Man City appeal case against UEFA

The Court of Arbitration for Sport ( CAS ) are considering holding cases away from their headquarters as they look to keep working during the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
With national restrictions in place in Switzerland until April 19 and regional restrictions in Lausanne - where the organisation is based - set until April 30 , a statement from CAS on Tuesday confirmed that there would be no in-person hearings held before May 1 at the earliest .
With staff mostly working remotely , cases that can be decided on the basis of written submissions or via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the complexity and significance of Manchester City ’ s appeal against UEFA that it is expected to need an in-person hearing over a number of days to resolve .
One possibility being explored by CAS , “ if appropriate and possible ( considering the high risk of border shutdown or of quarantine ) , and if all persons involved agree ” , is to conduct such hearings in cities that are not subject to measures that are as restrictive as those in Lausanne .
City ’ s case is still at an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set , a panel to be appointed , and the first written submissions made .
The delays to a timetable on which City are not even listed up to May 18 has increased the likelihood of a hearing being pushed beyond the early summer deadline that the club were initially hoping for .
However , CAS general secretary Matthieu Reeb did not rule out May as an option if everything is in place by then to start a hearing .
Asked by M.E.N Sport if City ’ s case could be moved ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was : “ Hearings are not fixed in any particular order .
The date is determined by the availability of the parties and arbitrators and the readiness of the case to be heard ( an exchange of written submissions needs to be completed first ) .
“ The case Man City / UEFA may be added to the list of CAS hearings at a later stage and take place in May , or later , depending on the circumstances and on the agreement of the parties.
” There have not been any requests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hearing for the case , although this could come later .

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The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) are considering holding cases away from their headquarters as they look to keep working during the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
With national restrictions in place in Switzerland until April 19 and regional restrictions in Lausanne - where the organisation is based - set until April 30, a statement from CAS on Tuesday confirmed that there would be no in-person hearings held before May 1 at the earliest.
With staff mostly working remotely, cases that can be decided on the basis of written submissions or via video conferencing are being progressed.
Such is the complexity and significance of Manchester City’s appeal against UEFA that it is expected to need an in-person hearing over a number of days to resolve.
One possibility being explored by CAS, “if appropriate and possible (considering the high risk of border shutdown or of quarantine), and if all persons involved agree”, is to conduct such hearings in cities that are not subject to measures that are as restrictive as those in Lausanne.
City’s case is still at an early stage with a date to be set, a panel to be appointed, and the first written submissions made.
The delays to a timetable on which City are not even listed up to May 18 has increased the likelihood of a hearing being pushed beyond the early summer deadline that the club were initially hoping for.
However, CAS general secretary Matthieu Reeb did not rule out May as an option if everything is in place by then to start a hearing.
Asked by M.E.N Sport if City’s case could be moved ahead of those already listed, the response was: “Hearings are not fixed in any particular order. The date is determined by the availability of the parties and arbitrators and the readiness of the case to be heard (an exchange of written submissions needs to be completed first).
“The case Man City / UEFA may be added to the list of CAS hearings at a later stage and take place in May, or later, depending on the circumstances and on the agreement of the parties.”
There have not been any requests made to CAS to request a public hearing for the case, although this could come later.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Corrie stars leave set after major changes announced over coronavirus outbreak

Coronation Street stars were spotted leaving the set at Trafford Wharf following the announcement that the soap is being rationed to three episodes a week amid the coronavirus outbreak .
A large sign on the security gates at the ITV studios read ' please note that due to advise from the Health Authorities the cast are unable to stop for autographs or photographs . '
Corrie favourites Ben Price and Ryan Prescott , who play Nick Tilsley and Ryan Connor , appeared to be deep in converation as they were seen heading away from the set wearing dark coats with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chris Gascoyne , who plays Peter Barlow , managed a smile despite worry about the COVID-19 pandemic weighing heavily on the nation 's minds .
TV bosses have announced a temporary change to the transmission pattern of Coronation Street and its rural sister soap Emmerdale due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
From Monday , March 30 , instead of the usual six episodes , screened as a double bill , Corrie will be rationed to three episodes on Monday , Wednesday and Friday at 7.30pm .
And Emmerdale will be screened Monday to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ double helping .
Corrie , which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year , will continue to be filmed at Trafford Wharf , and Emmerdale in Leeds .
An ITV spokeswoman said : “ The continued transmission of both soaps is a priority to all of us at ITV and to our audiences who enjoy the shows .
“ Whilst carefully adhering to the latest health advice from the Government and Public Health England , our production teams are continuing to film episodes in Manchester and Leeds .
“ With this change of transmission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new soap episodes coming to air every weekday night until at least the early summer.
” They added : `` With effect from Monday 30 March Coronation Street and Emmerdale 's scheduling pattern will be changing due to the coronavirus pandemic .
`` Emmerdale will air Monday to Friday at 7pm and Coronation Street Monday , Wednesday and Friday at 7.30pm . ''
Coronation Street chiefs have already banned kissing scenes in a bid to tackle coronavirus spreading on set .
Bosses are aiming to continue shooting episodes of the soap , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ source told The Sun : “ All of the soaps are desperate to keep running .
`` If they disappear out of the schedules there ’ s huge gaps which is a major headache .
“ Coronation Street shoots about six to eight weeks in advance , so viewers might see some kissing in the next month or so , but the scenes they ’ re shooting right now will have nothing of the sort in .
“ The longer they can keep cast and crew well , the better , and if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ losing a kiss so be it.
” An ITV spokesperson said : “ Any scenes with kissing or close contact are being altered to minimise contact between the actors.
” BBC One soap EastEnders has stopped filming and is cutting down to showing two episodes a week .
With immediate effect episodes will air on Monday and Tuesday , removing the Thursday and Friday showings from the TV schedule .
The soap tweeted : “ In light of the spread of Covid-19 , filming on # EastEnders will be postponed until further notice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two.
” Episodes will now air on Mondays at 8pm and on Tuesdays at 7.30pm .

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Coronation Street stars were spotted leaving the set at Trafford Wharf following the announcement that the soap is being rationed to three episodes a week amid the coronavirus outbreak.
A large sign on the security gates at the ITV studios read ' please note that due to advise from the Health Authorities the cast are unable to stop for autographs or photographs.'
Corrie favourites Ben Price and Ryan Prescott, who play Nick Tilsley and Ryan Connor, appeared to be deep in converation as they were seen heading away from the set wearing dark coats with their hoods pulled up.
(Image: Eamonn and James Clarke)
And co-star Chris Gascoyne, who plays Peter Barlow, managed a smile despite worry about the COVID-19 pandemic weighing heavily on the nation's minds.
TV bosses have announced a temporary change to the transmission pattern of Coronation Street and its rural sister soap Emmerdale due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
From Monday, March 30, instead of the usual six episodes, screened as a double bill, Corrie will be rationed to three episodes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7.30pm.
(Image: Eamonn and James Clarke)
And Emmerdale will be screened Monday to Friday at 7pm, losing its Thursday double helping.
Corrie, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, will continue to be filmed at Trafford Wharf, and Emmerdale in Leeds.
An ITV spokeswoman said: “The continued transmission of both soaps is a priority to all of us at ITV and to our audiences who enjoy the shows.
(Image: Eamonn and James Clarke)
“Whilst carefully adhering to the latest health advice from the Government and Public Health England, our production teams are continuing to film episodes in Manchester and Leeds.
“With this change of transmission pattern it will ensure we have great new soap episodes coming to air every weekday night until at least the early summer.”
They added: "With effect from Monday 30 March Coronation Street and Emmerdale's scheduling pattern will be changing due to the coronavirus pandemic.
"Emmerdale will air Monday to Friday at 7pm and Coronation Street Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7.30pm."
Coronation Street chiefs have already banned kissing scenes in a bid to tackle coronavirus spreading on set.
Bosses are aiming to continue shooting episodes of the soap, but ‘limit physical contact.’
A soap source told The Sun : “All of the soaps are desperate to keep running.
"If they disappear out of the schedules there’s huge gaps which is a major headache.
“Coronation Street shoots about six to eight weeks in advance, so viewers might see some kissing in the next month or so, but the scenes they’re shooting right now will have nothing of the sort in.
“They are taking no chances.
“The longer they can keep cast and crew well, the better, and if a storyline has to suffer slightly by losing a kiss so be it.”
An ITV spokesperson said: “Any scenes with kissing or close contact are being altered to minimise contact between the actors.”
BBC One soap EastEnders has stopped filming and is cutting down to showing two episodes a week.
With immediate effect episodes will air on Monday and Tuesday, removing the Thursday and Friday showings from the TV schedule.
The soap tweeted: “In light of the spread of Covid-19, filming on #EastEnders will be postponed until further notice.
“We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two.”
Episodes will now air on Mondays at 8pm and on Tuesdays at 7.30pm.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Police say service 'may look different for a while' amid coronavirus outbreak

Greater Manchester Police have warned the public that their service “ may look different for a while ” after the coronavirus outbreak .
The country was put on virtual lockdown this week when people were told to avoid all essential travel and contact with others in a bid to try and stop the highly contagious flu-like virus spreading .
The measures are being implemented to try and limit the stress on the NHS during the peak of the pandemic .
However the region ’ s police force today said the situation , unprecedented in our lifetime , would also be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Deputy Chief Constable ( DCC ) Ian Pilling said the situation was likely to see a rise in demand for assistance from officers at the same time the illness would be putting pressure on staffing levels .
He said a number of staff had already fallen ill or had to enter self-isolation as per the government ’ s guidance , but did not say how many and did not reveal if the force had seen any confirmed coronavirus cases .
However he moved to reassure people saying that they had contingency plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Though he said they would continue to risk assess all calls and incidents and they would be prioritising their response to ” those who need it most.
” He said : “ We understand the public will be concerned following recent developments surrounding the Coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , and during what is an understandably worrying time for everyone .
“ I want to reassure the public that Greater Manchester Police is determined to continue to deliver the best possible public service that we are able .
“ We are all facing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already begun to pose a huge challenge for everyone .
“ We have been working extremely closely with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority , Government and the health authorities to review and adapt our plans , and will continue to do so to ensure our response is in line with what is a fast-developing picture nationally and regionally .
“ We are extremely proud of our workforce at GMP and the health and safety of our staff will continue to be one of our top priorities .
“ We have tried and tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big organisation , we have the ability to move resources around to meet the increasing demands that we face and will continue to deliver this to the best of our abilities whilst facing the obvious challenges this situation will bring.
” One of the major ways the public could help DCC Pilling said was by using other channels such as the force ’ s LiveChat function on their website , or 101 to report crime where possible and only to ring 999 in a genuine emergency .
“ This situation is unique and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this means that the service some people receive from us may look different for a while .
“ Like other organisations , some of our staff will become ill or have to enter self-isolation as per government guidelines and this has already started to happen “ Please remember that if you call us unnecessarily , you are potentially taking a resource away from someone else that may be vulnerable and could urgently need our assistance .
“ I would also urge the public to look out for each , particularly those who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We know from experience that Greater Manchester always pulls together in times of crisis and I thank you for your continued support for our officers and staff during this time .
”

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Greater Manchester Police have warned the public that their service “may look different for a while”after the coronavirus outbreak.
The country was put on virtual lockdown this week when people were told to avoid all essential travel and contact with others in a bid to try and stop the highly contagious flu-like virus spreading.
The measures are being implemented to try and limit the stress on the NHS during the peak of the pandemic.
However the region’s police force today said the situation, unprecedented in our lifetime, would also be a “huge challenge” for them.
Deputy Chief Constable (DCC) Ian Pilling said the situation was likely to see a rise in demand for assistance from officers at the same time the illness would be putting pressure on staffing levels.
He said a number of staff had already fallen ill or had to enter self-isolation as per the government’s guidance, but did not say how many and did not reveal if the force had seen any confirmed coronavirus cases.
However he moved to reassure people saying that they had contingency plans and could move staff around where needed.
(Image: Getty Images)
Though he said they would continue to risk assess all calls and incidents and they would be prioritising their response to ”those who need it most.”
He said: “We understand the public will be concerned following recent developments surrounding the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and during what is an understandably worrying time for everyone.
“I want to reassure the public that Greater Manchester Police is determined to continue to deliver the best possible public service that we are able.
“We are all facing a unique set of circumstances which has already begun to pose a huge challenge for everyone.
“We have been working extremely closely with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Government and the health authorities to review and adapt our plans, and will continue to do so to ensure our response is in line with what is a fast-developing picture nationally and regionally.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
“We are extremely proud of our workforce at GMP and the health and safety of our staff will continue to be one of our top priorities.
“We have tried and tested plans in place, and as a big organisation, we have the ability to move resources around to meet the increasing demands that we face and will continue to deliver this to the best of our abilities whilst facing the obvious challenges this situation will bring.”
One of the major ways the public could help DCC Pilling said was by using other channels such as the force’s LiveChat function on their website, or 101 to report crime where possible and only to ring 999 in a genuine emergency.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
“This situation is unique and poses a huge challenge for everyone and this means that the service some people receive from us may look different for a while.
“Like other organisations, some of our staff will become ill or have to enter self-isolation as per government guidelines and this has already started to happen
“Please remember that if you call us unnecessarily, you are potentially taking a resource away from someone else that may be vulnerable and could urgently need our assistance.
“I would also urge the public to look out for each, particularly those who are most vulnerable at this time.
“We know from experience that Greater Manchester always pulls together in times of crisis and I thank you for your continued support for our officers and staff during this time.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Prime Minister says 'game changing' coronavirus test is 'coming down the track'

The Prime Minister has announced that a 'game changing ' coronavirus test which reveals if someone has had Covid-19 but not shown symptoms is making progress .
The test will determine whether an individual has developed antibodies to tackle the coronavirus .
Boris Johnson said it is `` coming down the track '' while the Government ’ s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said it 's `` progressing very fast '' .
Sir Patrick said : `` That 's progressing very fast , Public Health England are looking at this today .
`` They 've got a test in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're looking at ways at getting the much more widespread version out .
`` Going forward it 's going to be critically important to be able to monitor this disease well because only by being able to monitor it can we start relaxing measures again . ''
The PM added : `` The great thing about having a test to see whether you 've had it enough is suddenly a green light goes on above your head and you can go back to work in the safe and confident in the knowledge that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again .
`` So for an economic point of view , from a social point of view , it really could be a game-changer .
`` You can really see the potential of that advance , which , as I say , is coming down the track . ''
Mr Johnson and Sir Patrick made the comments during the third daily press conference on Thursday which followed a Cobra meeting chaired by the Prime Minister .
They were joined by Deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries .
It was announced during the press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close from Friday .
But a timescale on when they will re-open has not been given .
Exams will also not take place in May and June but students have been reassured they will get their qualifications and sit their exams `` in time '' .

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The Prime Minister has announced that a 'game changing' coronavirus test which reveals if someone has had Covid-19 but not shown symptoms is making progress.
The test will determine whether an individual has developed antibodies to tackle the coronavirus.
Boris Johnson said it is "coming down the track" while the Government’s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said it's "progressing very fast".
Sir Patrick said: "That's progressing very fast, Public Health England are looking at this today.
"They've got a test in house they've got going and we're looking at ways at getting the much more widespread version out.
(Image: PA)
"Going forward it's going to be critically important to be able to monitor this disease well because only by being able to monitor it can we start relaxing measures again."
The PM added: "The great thing about having a test to see whether you've had it enough is suddenly a green light goes on above your head and you can go back to work in the safe and confident in the knowledge that you are most unlikely to get it again.
"So for an economic point of view, from a social point of view, it really could be a game-changer.
"You can really see the potential of that advance, which, as I say, is coming down the track."
Mr Johnson and Sir Patrick made the comments during the third daily press conference on Thursday which followed a Cobra meeting chaired by the Prime Minister.
They were joined by Deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries.
It was announced during the press conference that schools in the UK will close from Friday.
But a timescale on when they will re-open has not been given.
Exams will also not take place in May and June but students have been reassured they will get their qualifications and sit their exams "in time".


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Criminals trying to trick way into homes by pretending to be Covid-19 testers

Criminals are trying to take advantage of vulnerable people by posing as door to door 'coronavirus testers ' .
Police @ @ @ @ @ after reports that individuals have tried to unscrupulously gain access to homes , by pretending @ @ @ @ @ .
They have stressed that this is a scam , and no one genuine is @ @ @ @ @ at homes .
Sharing warnings on social media , GMP 's city centre division wrote @ @ @ @ @ are reports online that individuals may be taking advantage of the vulnerable , by posing @ @ @ @ @ order to gain access to your home .
`` Please advise your friends , relatives @ @ @ @ @ conducting ‘ cold call ’ testing '' .
While officers in Sale warned : `` @ @ @ @ @ that individuals may be taking advantage of the vulnerable by posing as door to door @ @ @ @ @ gain access to properties .
`` Please advise your friends and relatives that NOBODY is @ @ @ @ @ ’ testing '' .

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Criminals are trying to take advantage of vulnerable people by posing as door to door 'coronavirus testers'.
Police have issued a warning, after reports that individuals have tried to unscrupulously gain access to homes, by pretending to offer tests for Covid-19.
They have stressed that this is a scam, and no one genuine is offering tests by cold calling at homes.
Sharing warnings on social media, GMP's city centre division wrote: "Sadly, there are reports online that individuals may be taking advantage of the vulnerable, by posing as door-to-door Covid-19 testers in order to gain access to your home.
"Please advise your friends, relatives & neighbours that nobody is conducting ‘cold call’ testing".
While officers in Sale warned: "Other Police districts are reporting that individuals may be taking advantage of the vulnerable by posing as door to door Covid-19 testers in order to gain access to properties.
"Please advise your friends and relatives that NOBODY is currently conducting ‘cold call’ testing".


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--FIFA 20 TOTW Moments - first squad and full details revealed

So we knew that the FIFA 20 TOTW 27 was cancelled , but no one was quite sure what EA SPORTS would replace it with .
Well , now we know , it ’ s called TOTW Moments .
The first TOTW Moments squad has been released too , with the squad closely resembling the TOTW 27 we saw in FIFA 18 .
The squad includes the likes of Jesse Lingard , Kyle Walker , Marko Arnautovic , Gareth Bale and Andres Iniesta .
Check out the first TOTW Moments squad below , plus a full explainer of how the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the suspensions of the Premier League , Bundesliga & Ligue 1 last Friday , in addition to La Liga , Serie A and several other leagues across the world , we have taken the decision to suspend our normal Team of the Week ( TOTW ) program .
When thinking about a replacement for TOTW , we wanted to build something that is authentic to football and that is compatible with TOTW if we are able to reintroduce it later in the year .
Today , we are introducing the Team of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you will see in game .
TOTW Moments will be a recurring program that will be based entirely on a historical TOTW release from past FUT titles .
Each squad will be a reflection of a specific TOTW that was released from March onwards in each product year .
We want to keep these Items distinct , to help distinguish between authentic performances taking place this season and in previous seasons .
All players that will be released will reflect their current teams , and their OVR increase will be in line with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ example , in FUT 18 TOTW 28 Kyle Walker was given an 86 OVR Item in line with his FUT 18 upgrade path .
For his TOTW Moments Item , Kyle Walker will be an 87 OVR Item based on his FUT 20 upgrade path .
TOTW Moments will replace TOTW in multiple places across FUT starting today , Wednesday , March 18th .
This includes , amongst others : To ensure that Live Items continue to be valuable to players when building their squads , we ’ ll also be upgrading Ones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on if they are released in a TOTW Moments squad .
As players with dynamic Items are selected for TOTW Moments squads , they will receive upgrades accordingly .
When the regular football calendar resumes , Ones to Watch and Headliners Items will continue to receive upgrades as they would have done previously .
When will the changes to TOTW occur ?
Starting Wednesday , March 18th , 2020 , and until the regular football seasons resume , TOTW will be replaced with a Weekly Squad of TOTW Moments players .
How will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Picks ?
TOTW Moments Items will replace the standard TOTW FUT Champion Player Picks rewards .
TOTW Moments Items will receive the familiar FUT Champions design as a result .
Why are certain players not featured in a respective TOTW Moments squad ?
If a player has retired , been banned , or is no longer in FUT 20 , they will not feature in that week ’ s TOTW Moments squad .
A player can not feature in back to back TOTW Moments selections .
Can I use TOTW Moments in Squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will replace TOTW content and operate in the same way .
Future SBCs and Objectives may require either TOTW or TOTW Moments items .
We are also currently working to update the requirements of relevant active SBCs to reflect this change .
Just as with regular TOTW Items , select TOTW Moments Items will feature action shot images .
How will the TOTW Moments impact my dynamic Items ?
Ones to Watch and Headliners players will continue to receive upgrades if they are selected as part of the TOTW Moments squad for that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be paused until the 2019-2020 season resumes .
What will happen to new TOTW packs I get as FUT Champions rewards and/or from SBCS ?
From Thursday 19th March @ 9am GMT onward , and until the football seasons resume , the TOTW packs earned from FUT Champions will be replaced with TOTW Moments packs .
Similar to the usual TOTW packs , when opened , these packs will contain the current active TOTW Moments players .
How do TOTW Moments work with the FUT Champions Upgrade SBCs ?
The FUT Champions versions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ function in FUT Champions Upgrade SBCs in the same manner that the FUT Champions versions of TOTW Player Items do .
What will happen to my existing TOTW packs ?
Existing Team of the Week Packs ( TOTW Upgrade , Ultimate TOTW Pack , Premium TOTW Pack ) will continue to include Player Items from TOTW 26 .
If we are able to reintroduce TOTW later in the year , these packs would then update to use the active TOTW as per usual .
Note : On Nintendo Switch , TOTW 26 will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ league play resumes .
Road to the Final Items will continue to reflect real world football .
With both the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League currently suspended , these Live Items will continue to be upgraded once the tournament resumes .
Konate , Gomez , Gueye , Marquinhos , Partey , & Angelino Road to the Final Items were upgraded last Friday , March 13th , 2020 , based on their respective teams ’ progression to the Quarter Finals .
Marquee Matchups will be replaced with Marquee Matchups Moments beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resumes .
The majority of the February Player of the Month awards will be released in game as planned .
Looking ahead to future months ’ awards , we ’ ll work with each league to determine the right time to bring back the POTM SBCs in FUT 20 .
Man of the Match Items for Domestic , UEFA and CONMEBOL cup competitions will be paused until the respective tournaments resume .

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So we knew that the FIFA 20 TOTW 27 was cancelled, but no one was quite sure what EA SPORTS would replace it with. Well, now we know, it’s called TOTW Moments.
The first TOTW Moments squad has been released too, with the squad closely resembling the TOTW 27 we saw in FIFA 18. The squad includes the likes of Jesse Lingard, Kyle Walker, Marko Arnautovic, Gareth Bale and Andres Iniesta.
Check out the first TOTW Moments squad below, plus a full explainer of how the promo will work moving forward.
TOTW Moments squad first XI
Matthijs de Ligt (88) - Juventus/Piemonte Calcio
Kyle Walker (87) - Manchester CIty
James Rodriguez (86) - Real Madrid
David Alaba (86) - Bayern Munich
Paulinho (86) - Guangzhou Evergrande
Marko Arnautovic (86) - Shanghai SIPG
Gareth Bale (86) - Real Madrid
Kasper Schmeichel (86) - Leicester City
Andres Iniesta (85) - Vissel Kobe
Miranda (85) - Jiangsu Suning
Ricardo Queresma (84) - Kasımpaşa S.K.
Introducing Team of the Week Moments
Following the suspensions of the Premier League, Bundesliga & Ligue 1 last Friday, in addition to La Liga, Serie A and several other leagues across the world, we have taken the decision to suspend our normal Team of the Week (TOTW) program. When thinking about a replacement for TOTW, we wanted to build something that is authentic to football and that is compatible with TOTW if we are able to reintroduce it later in the year. Today, we are introducing the Team of the Week Moments and explaining some changes that you will see in game.
TOTW Moments will be a recurring program that will be based entirely on a historical TOTW release from past FUT titles. Each squad will be a reflection of a specific TOTW that was released from March onwards in each product year. We want to keep these Items distinct, to help distinguish between authentic performances taking place this season and in previous seasons.
All players that will be released will reflect their current teams, and their OVR increase will be in line with their FUT 20 upgrade path. For example, in FUT 18 TOTW 28 Kyle Walker was given an 86 OVR Item in line with his FUT 18 upgrade path. For his TOTW Moments Item, Kyle Walker will be an 87 OVR Item based on his FUT 20 upgrade path.
TOTW Moments will replace TOTW in multiple places across FUT starting today, Wednesday, March 18th. This includes, amongst others:
FUT Champions Rewards
In packs
Weekly Featured Squad Battle within Squad Battles
SBC Requirements
Future FUT Objectives
Draft Mode
To ensure that Live Items continue to be valuable to players when building their squads, we’ll also be upgrading Ones to Watch and Headliners Live Items based on if they are released in a TOTW Moments squad. As players with dynamic Items are selected for TOTW Moments squads, they will receive upgrades accordingly.
When the regular football calendar resumes, Ones to Watch and Headliners Items will continue to receive upgrades as they would have done previously.
TOTW Moments FAQ:
When will the changes to TOTW occur?
Starting Wednesday, March 18th, 2020, and until the regular football seasons resume, TOTW will be replaced with a Weekly Squad of TOTW Moments players.
How will this affect my FUT Champions rewards Player Picks?
TOTW Moments Items will replace the standard TOTW FUT Champion Player Picks rewards. TOTW Moments Items will receive the familiar FUT Champions design as a result.
Why are certain players not featured in a respective TOTW Moments squad?
If a player has retired, been banned, or is no longer in FUT 20, they will not feature in that week’s TOTW Moments squad.
A player cannot feature in back to back TOTW Moments selections.
Can I use TOTW Moments in Squad Building Challenges?
Yes. TOTW Moments will replace TOTW content and operate in the same way. Future SBCs and Objectives may require either TOTW or TOTW Moments items. We are also currently working to update the requirements of relevant active SBCs to reflect this change.
Will TOTW Moments Items feature dynamic images/action shots?
Just as with regular TOTW Items, select TOTW Moments Items will feature action shot images.
How will the TOTW Moments impact my dynamic Items?
Ones to Watch and Headliners players will continue to receive upgrades if they are selected as part of the TOTW Moments squad for that week.
Headliners win streak upgrades will be paused until the 2019-2020 season resumes.
What will happen to new TOTW packs I get as FUT Champions rewards and/or from SBCS?
From Thursday 19th March @ 9am GMT onward, and until the football seasons resume, the TOTW packs earned from FUT Champions will be replaced with TOTW Moments packs. Similar to the usual TOTW packs, when opened, these packs will contain the current active TOTW Moments players.
How do TOTW Moments work with the FUT Champions Upgrade SBCs?
The FUT Champions versions of the TOTW Moments Player Items will function in FUT Champions Upgrade SBCs in the same manner that the FUT Champions versions of TOTW Player Items do.
What will happen to my existing TOTW packs?
Existing Team of the Week Packs (TOTW Upgrade, Ultimate TOTW Pack, Premium TOTW Pack) will continue to include Player Items from TOTW 26. If we are able to reintroduce TOTW later in the year, these packs would then update to use the active TOTW as per usual.
Note: On Nintendo Switch, TOTW 26 will continue to be the active TOTW until league play resumes.
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UCL & UEL Road to the Final Items
Road to the Final Items will continue to reflect real world football. With both the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League currently suspended, these Live Items will continue to be upgraded once the tournament resumes.
Konate, Gomez, Gueye, Marquinhos, Partey, & Angelino Road to the Final Items were upgraded last Friday, March 13th, 2020, based on their respective teams’ progression to the Quarter Finals.
Marquee Matchups Moments SBCs
Marquee Matchups will be replaced with Marquee Matchups Moments beginning Thursday 19th March until the football season resumes.
Player of the Month Award SBCs
The majority of the February Player of the Month awards will be released in game as planned. Looking ahead to future months’ awards, we’ll work with each league to determine the right time to bring back the POTM SBCs in FUT 20.
Man of the Match Items
Man of the Match Items for Domestic, UEFA and CONMEBOL cup competitions will be paused until the respective tournaments resume.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Tuanzebe agrees with Bailly about Solskjaer and Mourinho at Man United

Axel Tuanzebe agrees with Eric Bailly that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ’ s past playing experience has made life easier for him at Manchester United .
Team morale was restored at Old Trafford following the appointment of club legend Solskjaer after the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December 2018 .
The Portuguese manager experienced a turbulent spell at Old Trafford which saw him deliver trophies but also involved in high-profile fall outs with a number of key United players .
United ’ s initial decision to appoint Solskjaer was made ‘ to put smiles back on faces ’ and speaking last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from having a former top-level footballer in charge .
`` Yeah , it 's important being able to work with someone who is a former player , '' Bailly told ESPN FC .
`` Someone who understands the players ' situations , understands all the things that can happen from time to time.
” It seems like Bailly is not the only United defender to think that Solskjaer ’ s own experiences have helped him adapt to life as a manager at Old Trafford either .
Academy graduate Tuanzebe has been promoted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he credits his own improvement with the man in charge .
“ He has an understanding of the players himself , ” Tuanzebe told the United App .
“ It is a lot easier .
He knows how people feel when in certain times and he knows how to help the individual adapt to the circumstances .
“ For me he has been fundamental .
We have had a sit down , we have talked about my future and what destinations I want to be reaching , and he has been really good @ @ @ @

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Axel Tuanzebe agrees with Eric Bailly that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s past playing experience has made life easier for him at Manchester United.
Team morale was restored at Old Trafford following the appointment of club legend Solskjaer after the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December 2018.
The Portuguese manager experienced a turbulent spell at Old Trafford which saw him deliver trophies but also involved in high-profile fall outs with a number of key United players.
United’s initial decision to appoint Solskjaer was made ‘to put smiles back on faces’ and speaking last week Bailly admitted the club is benefiting from having a former top-level footballer in charge.
"Yeah, it's important being able to work with someone who is a former player," Bailly told ESPN FC.
"Someone who understands the players' situations, understands all the things that can happen from time to time.”
It seems like Bailly is not the only United defender to think that Solskjaer’s own experiences have helped him adapt to life as a manager at Old Trafford either.
Academy graduate Tuanzebe has been promoted to the first-team under the Norwegian manager and he credits his own improvement with the man in charge.
“He has an understanding of the players himself,” Tuanzebe told the United App.
“It is a lot easier. He knows how people feel when in certain times and he knows how to help the individual adapt to the circumstances.
“For me he has been fundamental. We have had a sit down, we have talked about my future and what destinations I want to be reaching, and he has been really good to me.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--Health boss' stern words for people ignoring social distancing

People refusing to follow government advice on social distancing are 'putting others at risk ' of coronavirus , according to the Government 's chief scientific adviser .
Sir Patrick Vallance said those who 'do n't adhere ' to the measures are putting people 'lots of people ' at risk of COVID-19 .
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday ( March 18 ) , Sir Patrick said it is 'crucial ' the measures - such as working from home , avoiding large gatherings , and staying away from pubs and restaurants - are not taken as 'soft advice ' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that not everybody is going to follow it but a very high proportion need to , which means we all really need to focus on this , ” he said .
“ The moment we say , ‘ It ’ s not for me it ’ s for somebody else , ’ and the compliance goes down , the less effective it ’ s going to be .
“ When we don ’ t adhere to this we are actually putting lots of people at risk .
`` It 's crucial this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken as a a really clear instruction . ''
The Prime Minister also spoke about people having 'freedom ' , but said that if we follow the advice ‘ ruthlessly ’ then we ‘ will get through this ’ .
He said : `` Of course people must make their own decisions , I ’ m a believer as I say in freedom .
`` But let ’ s be absolutely in no doubt that these are very , very important choices that we are now making in our daily lives and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more ruthlessly , we can enforce upon ourselves , our families the advice we are getting , then the better we will be able to protect our NHS , the fewer deaths we will have and the less suffering there will be in the UK population .
`` And the faster we will get through this and the better we will bounce back eventually . ''
When asked about the possibility of a lockdown in London , the Prime Minister said this is not being 'ruled out ' .
Current advice on social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with others ' .
This includes working from home if possible , avoiding mass gatherings , avoiding pubs , clubs and theatres and all unnecessary travel .
Those who are over 70 , people with underlying health conditions and pregnant women are being 'strongly advised ' to follow the guidance .
The measures set out by Public Health England are : • Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) .
These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough .
• Avoid non-essential use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to avoid rush hour , when possible .
• Work from home , where possible .
Your employer should support you to do this .
• Avoid large gatherings , and gatherings in smaller public spaces such as pubs , cinemas , restaurants , theatres , bars , clubs .
• Avoid gatherings with friends and family .
Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone , internet , and social media .
• Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services .
The Department for Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( March 18 ) , 2,626 people had tested positive for the virus in the UK , though the true number of cases is believed to be far higher .
People who suffer mild symptoms of coronavirus , or live with someone who does , are being told to stay at home and self-isolate and will not be tested .
If you live on your own , you should self-isolate for seven days , but if you live with others , you should all self-isolate for 14 days .

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People refusing to follow government advice on social distancing are 'putting others at risk' of coronavirus, according to the Government's chief scientific adviser.
Sir Patrick Vallance said those who 'don't adhere' to the measures are putting people 'lots of people' at risk of COVID-19.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday (March 18), Sir Patrick said it is 'crucial' the measures - such as working from home, avoiding large gatherings, and staying away from pubs and restaurants - are not taken as 'soft advice'.
“The modelling does take into account that not everybody is going to follow it but a very high proportion need to, which means we all really need to focus on this,” he said.
“The moment we say, ‘It’s not for me it’s for somebody else,’ and the compliance goes down, the less effective it’s going to be.
“When we don’t adhere to this we are actually putting lots of people at risk.
"It's crucial this isn't taken as soft advice, but taken as a a really clear instruction."
The Prime Minister also spoke about people having 'freedom', but said that if we follow the advice ‘ruthlessly’ then we ‘will get through this’.
(Image: PA)
He said: "Of course people must make their own decisions, I’m a believer as I say in freedom.
"But let’s be absolutely in no doubt that these are very, very important choices that we are now making in our daily lives and the more closely and the more strictly, more ruthlessly, we can enforce upon ourselves, our families the advice we are getting, then the better we will be able to protect our NHS, the fewer deaths we will have and the less suffering there will be in the UK population.
"And the faster we will get through this and the better we will bounce back eventually."
When asked about the possibility of a lockdown in London, the Prime Minister said this is not being 'ruled out'.
Current advice on social distancing states that everyone should stop 'non-essential contact with others'.
This includes working from home if possible, avoiding mass gatherings, avoiding pubs, clubs and theatres and all unnecessary travel.
Those who are over 70, people with underlying health conditions and pregnant women are being 'strongly advised' to follow the guidance.
The measures set out by Public Health England are:
Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19). These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough. Avoid non-essential use of public transport, varying your travel times to avoid rush hour, when possible. Work from home, where possible. Your employer should support you to do this. Avoid large gatherings, and gatherings in smaller public spaces such as pubs, cinemas, restaurants, theatres, bars, clubs. Avoid gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone, internet, and social media. Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services.
The Department for Health said that as of 9am on Wednesday (March 18), 2,626 people had tested positive for the virus in the UK, though the true number of cases is believed to be far higher.
People who suffer mild symptoms of coronavirus, or live with someone who does, are being told to stay at home and self-isolate and will not be tested.
If you live on your own, you should self-isolate for seven days, but if you live with others, you should all self-isolate for 14 days.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-18--How coronavirus will affect your future holiday booking

Now that the UK government is advising against all non-essential travel worldwide for an initial period of 30 days , many will be wondering what will happen with upcoming trips and breaks .
With the Easter holidays fast approaching , this will mean many families will have to ditch or rearrange their plans .
Those who have holidays booked after the 30-day travel ban may be wondering where they stand - and if they will be able to cancel .
Although this is a rapidly-changing situation , this is how the on-going coronavirus outbreak will affect holidays and travel - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What if I need to change or cancel my travel plans ?
The FCO says you should contact your airline , travel company , cruise line or other transport and accommodation providers , get in touch with your insurance provider and continue to follow the NHS coronavirus guidance .
I ’ m due to go on holiday abroad in the next 30 days .
Will I get a refund ?
Now that the government has advised against travel , this is the key trigger for most cancellation policies - and travel insurance .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 days should be able to claim a refund , or be able to rebook at a later date , or claim on their travel insurance .
Insurers are telling customers they should ask their holiday provider or airline for refunds or rebookings first .
Even when travel tickets are refunded , there can be other costs , such as hotel rooms and car hire , which travel insurance may cover .
People also need to consider that the travel providers and insurers phone lines are likely to be exceptionally busy at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and from people who were due to travel in the next few weeks .
At the moment , bookings outside of the 30 day period will still be valid and under normal booking conditions .
Which means , it ’ s unlikely you ’ ll be able to cancel and get a refund .
However many travel operators are doing their best to be flexible .
Generally speaking , at times when there is no Government advice against travel to a destination , there is no obligation on a holiday company to give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go .
So , if you are paying in installments and decide to stop paying towards your balance , it ’ s very likely that your travel company will treat this as a cancellation .
Which means you will lose your deposit .
If you continue with your booking , an assessment will be made nearer the time as to whether it can go ahead .
If it can ’ t , your travel company will discuss the options with you .
Once the 30 days is up , If there is no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you ’ re free to make the choice not to go , but there 's no obligation on your holiday company to give you a refund and normal cancellation charges will apply .
The current situation is changing so rapidly that holidaymakers with future bookings have little option other than to wait to find out whether the FCO travel advice changes .
If you cancel early before there are any additional warnings , you may have to pay cancellation charges .
Once the FCO removes its advice on a particular destination and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel , even if attractions and public areas are still closed when you arrive , , this would not normally give you the right to a refund .
If excursions or attractions that are included in the price of your holiday are closed or can ’ t go ahead , and this significantly changes your package holiday or impacts your overall experience , you may be entitled to a refund .
But due to the unprecedented nature of the situation , many travel companies and airlines are doing all they can to offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which include the option of changing travel dates should customers wish to postpone their holiday .
However this may not always be possible and holidaymakers need to speak to their travel provider to discuss what their options may be .
At the moment , it ’ s a grey area .
Advice from the government has mainly concerned foreign travel .
Domestic travel is still going ahead , however some British holiday parks have taken the decision to close .
And while no official bans have been implemented , currently there are no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK , despite everyone being advised to socially distance themselves as much as is pragmatic .
Travellers should also be aware that if they do go away , many pubs , attractions and clubs may be closed wherever they go .
But this is a very rapidly evolving situation and should the UK go into a lockdown similar to that of other countries , it is likely to affect UK breaks .
Is disruption cover standard in all travel policies ?
The decision to halt travel will allow policyholders with cancellation or disruption @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back now that they can no longer go ahead .
However , this level of cover may not be included in all policies , so always check the small print .
Some policies offer travel disruption cover as an optional add-on and not as standard .
Other ways to claim a refund if something does not go ahead People who have paid by credit card may be covered by section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act .
This allows people to hold credit card companies jointly liable with traders for goods and services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can put in a claim to the card firm if they do not receive what they paid for .
To qualify for this .
the goods or service you bought must have cost over £100 but not more than £30,000 .
As the global pandemic is out of the control of the tour operator , you will not be entitled to any compensation .
The FCO does not have a simple definition as to what is considered to be essential and non-essential travel .
It is up to the individual to determine in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ required .
Advice on the FCO website reads : `` Sometimes we say that only essential travel is advised .
`` Whether travel is essential or not is your own decision .
You may have urgent family or business commitments to attend to .
`` Only you can make an informed decision based on the risks . ''
If it is essential to travel The FCO has a checklist on its website for those whose travel is essential – You can get a full list of circumstances on the Gov.uk website .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can access money to cover emergencies and unexpected delays - and to consider taking more than one form of payment .
Many flights have been cancelled and if you get out there you may find it difficult to return .
If you do manage to travel , visitors are urged to be prepared to follow the advice of another country while you are abroad , and to comply with its isolation or quarantine requirements .
Travellers will also be expected to rely on its local health system .
They have warned that your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the local authority where you are .
If your trip is classed as essential , it is imperative to have appropriate insurance for overseas travel , and purchase it as soon as you book your travel .
You should check the detail of your travel insurance to see what it covers , and contact your insurance provider if you have any questions .
The insurer will also have to agree that your trip is considered essential and it may require a specialist policy .
What if I ’ m already abroad ?
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to immediately return to the UK if they are overseas , except from a few specific countries detailed in travel advice .
It says that if you wish to leave the country you are in , travellers must contact their airline or travel company and their insurance provider as soon as possibly .
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office will only organise assisted departure in exceptional circumstances .
Is travel insurance still available ?
Many insurers have restricted or paused their sales of travel insurance for new customers in recent days .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the small print carefully to see what you will or will not be covered for .
In most cases though , you ’ ll be unlikely to be able to get a new travel insurance policy to cover for a coronavirus cancellation .
Lots of annual policies are also refusing to cover new bookings , or excluding coronavirus cover for new trips so be sure to check before travel .

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Now that the UK government is advising against all non-essential travel worldwide for an initial period of 30 days, many will be wondering what will happen with upcoming trips and breaks.
With the Easter holidays fast approaching, this will mean many families will have to ditch or rearrange their plans.
Those who have holidays booked after the 30-day travel ban may be wondering where they stand - and if they will be able to cancel.
Although this is a rapidly-changing situation, this is how the on-going coronavirus outbreak will affect holidays and travel - over the next month and beyond.
What if I need to change or cancel my travel plans?
The FCO says you should contact your airline, travel company, cruise line or other transport and accommodation providers, get in touch with your insurance provider and continue to follow the NHS coronavirus guidance.
I’m due to go on holiday abroad in the next 30 days. Will I get a refund?
(Image: Daily Record)
Now that the government has advised against travel, this is the key trigger for most cancellation policies - and travel insurance.
Anyone with travel booked for the next 30 days should be able to claim a refund, or be able to rebook at a later date, or claim on their travel insurance. Insurers are telling customers they should ask their holiday provider or airline for refunds or rebookings first. Even when travel tickets are refunded, there can be other costs, such as hotel rooms and car hire, which travel insurance may cover.
People also need to consider that the travel providers and insurers phone lines are likely to be exceptionally busy at the moment as they deal with calls to and from people who were due to travel in the next few weeks.
I’ve got a summer holiday booked. Can I cancel?
At the moment, bookings outside of the 30 day period will still be valid and under normal booking conditions. Which means, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel and get a refund. However many travel operators are doing their best to be flexible.
Generally speaking, at times when there is no Government advice against travel to a destination, there is no obligation on a holiday company to give a refund if you decide not to go.
So, if you are paying in installments and decide to stop paying towards your balance, it’s very likely that your travel company will treat this as a cancellation. Which means you will lose your deposit.
If you continue with your booking, an assessment will be made nearer the time as to whether it can go ahead. If it can’t, your travel company will discuss the options with you.
(Image: AP)
Once the 30 days is up, If there is no Government advice against travel to your destination, you’re free to make the choice not to go, but there's no obligation on your holiday company to give you a refund and normal cancellation charges will apply.
The current situation is changing so rapidly that holidaymakers with future bookings have little option other than to wait to find out whether the FCO travel advice changes . If you cancel early before there are any additional warnings, you may have to pay cancellation charges.
Once the FCO removes its advice on a particular destination and you’re given the go-ahead to travel, even if attractions and public areas are still closed when you arrive,, this would not normally give you the right to a refund. If excursions or attractions that are included in the price of your holiday are closed or can’t go ahead, and this significantly changes your package holiday or impacts your overall experience, you may be entitled to a refund.
But due to the unprecedented nature of the situation, many travel companies and airlines are doing all they can to offer more flexible booking policies at this time which include the option of changing travel dates should customers wish to postpone their holiday. However this may not always be possible and holidaymakers need to speak to their travel provider to discuss what their options may be.
What about UK breaks?
At the moment, it’s a grey area. Advice from the government has mainly concerned foreign travel. Domestic travel is still going ahead, however some British holiday parks have taken the decision to close.
And while no official bans have been implemented, currently there are no restrictions on going on holiday within the UK, despite everyone being advised to socially distance themselves as much as is pragmatic.
Travellers should also be aware that if they do go away, many pubs, attractions and clubs may be closed wherever they go.
But this is a very rapidly evolving situation and should the UK go into a lockdown similar to that of other countries, it is likely to affect UK breaks.
Is disruption cover standard in all travel policies?
The decision to halt travel will allow policyholders with cancellation or disruption cover in place to claim their money back now that they can no longer go ahead. However, this level of cover may not be included in all policies, so always check the small print. Some policies offer travel disruption cover as an optional add-on and not as standard.
Other ways to claim a refund if something does not go ahead
People who have paid by credit card may be covered by section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.
(Image: Getty Images)
This allows people to hold credit card companies jointly liable with traders for goods and services bought on plastic – potentially meaning customers can put in a claim to the card firm if they do not receive what they paid for.
To qualify for this. the goods or service you bought must have cost over £100 but not more than £30,000.
Can I get compensation?
As the global pandemic is out of the control of the tour operator, you will not be entitled to any compensation.
What counts as “essential travel”
The FCO does not have a simple definition as to what is considered to be essential and non-essential travel. It is up to the individual to determine in their own mind whether their journey is required. Advice on the FCO website reads: "Sometimes we say that only essential travel is advised.
"Whether travel is essential or not is your own decision. You may have urgent family or business commitments to attend to.
"Circumstances differ from person to person.
"Only you can make an informed decision based on the risks."
If it is essential to travel
The FCO has a checklist on its website for those whose travel is essential – You can get a full list of circumstances on the Gov.uk website.
It is strongly advised to make sure you can access money to cover emergencies and unexpected delays - and to consider taking more than one form of payment. Many flights have been cancelled and if you get out there you may find it difficult to return.
If you do manage to travel, visitors are urged to be prepared to follow the advice of another country while you are abroad, and to comply with its isolation or quarantine requirements. Travellers will also be expected to rely on its local health system. They have warned that your safety and security is the responsibility of the local authority where you are.
If your trip is classed as essential, it is imperative to have appropriate insurance for overseas travel, and purchase it as soon as you book your travel. You should check the detail of your travel insurance to see what it covers, and contact your insurance provider if you have any questions. The insurer will also have to agree that your trip is considered essential and it may require a specialist policy.
What if I’m already abroad?
(Image: Stoke Sentinel)
The Foreign Office is not currently advising British people to immediately return to the UK if they are overseas, except from a few specific countries detailed in travel advice.
It says that if you wish to leave the country you are in, travellers must contact their airline or travel company and their insurance provider as soon as possibly. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office will only organise assisted departure in exceptional circumstances.
Is travel insurance still available?
Many insurers have restricted or paused their sales of travel insurance for new customers in recent days.
So it is worth shopping around and reading the small print carefully to see what you will or will not be covered for.
In most cases though, you’ll be unlikely to be able to get a new travel insurance policy to cover for a coronavirus cancellation.
Lots of annual policies are also refusing to cover new bookings, or excluding coronavirus cover for new trips so be sure to check before travel.