bbc--2020-05-02--Mystery 'poison plot' sends Czech mayors into hiding

A Czech politician in hiding amid allegations of a Russian assassination plot says he believes the threat against him is credible and he fears for his life .
Three Prague politicians are under 24-hour police guard because of the alleged plot to poison them - claims categorically denied by Moscow .
`` It 's very difficult , '' said Ondrej Kolar , mayor of Prague 's sixth district , speaking to the BBC from an undisclosed location under heavy police guard .
`` I have n't seen my children for quite a long time , and they have n't seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know where I am , '' he told me via Skype , now his only means of communication with the outside world .
I vaguely know Mr Kolar .
We both once worked at New York University in Prague .
His bright blue cardboard backdrop , with the words `` Prague 6 Municipal District '' , looked familiar .
Then I remembered .
The last time we met was shortly before a vote at Prague 6 district council to move the bronze statue of Soviet Marshal Ivan Konev .
That World War Two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agree he was not , as the plinth once claimed , the `` liberator of Prague '' .
The statue was erected in 1980 , but Konev was a controversial figure who oversaw the Soviets ' brutal suppression of the 1956 Hungarian Uprising and helped crush the Prague Spring of 1968 .
The Russian government has reacted angrily to the monument 's removal and has even threatened legal action .
Mayor Kolar was leading the council meeting and I had to wait .
I sat in an antechamber - under a large , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken the screen to his undisclosed hiding place .
`` There are things I can not comment on .
But what I can say is that both the Czech police and the secret service do have some intel that there might be a threat directly from the Russian side , '' he told me .
The nature of that threat , first elucidated in a brief but explosive piece in the investigative Czech weekly Respekt , is straight out of a spy novel .
Three weeks ago , claimed the publication , citing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a Russian diplomatic passport arrived at Prague airport carrying a suitcase containing the deadly poison ricin .
According to the report , he was picked up by a car bearing Russian diplomatic plates and taken to the Russian embassy , not far from Ondrej Kolar 's office in Prague 6 .
Czech intelligence services , Respekt claimed , deemed the man to be a direct threat to two city politicians who had angered Moscow in recent months : Ondrej Kolar , and Zdenek Hrib , the capital 's mayor .
Mr Hrib @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in front of the Russian embassy as Boris Nemtsov Square , honouring a prominent opponent of President Vladimir Putin murdered in 2015 .
• A city watching out for Russian and Chinese spies The following day another publication , Denik N , claimed a third critic of Moscow - local mayor Pavel Novotny - was also receiving police protection .
The denials from Russia were swift and unequivocal .
The report , said the embassy , had `` absolutely no basis '' .
Mr Putin 's spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the news report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there confirmation or much in the way of comment from Czech authorities .
A foreign ministry spokeswoman told the BBC they would `` not comment on the leaks published in the media '' , although she did confirm that an accredited Russian diplomat had arrived at the airport , presumably on one of the few flights still running during the coronavirus lockdown .
As the jaw-dropping allegations flashed around the world , prompting a mixture of outrage , disbelief and ridicule , journalists and diplomats began working their phones .
There was - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amongst seasoned Russia-watchers .
Assassinating the mayor of a European capital would be tantamount to an act of war .
It would be so counter-productive to the Kremlin it would be simply insane .
From a source within Czech counter-intelligence , there was… not confirmation exactly .
But far from a denial .
The media reports , the source told me , were grounded in factual information .
Ondrej Kolar is not taking any chances .
`` We know what happened in the past with the Russian secret service and its agents trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agent , '' he told the BBC .
• Russian spy : What happened to the Skripals ?
Russian former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter were poisoned in Salisbury in 2018 , by agents thought to have been sent by Russian intelligence .
`` When they have the guts to do this in the United Kingdom , why not do it in Prague ? ''

"There are things I cannot comment on. But what I can say is that both the Czech police and the secret service do have some intel that there might be a threat directly from the Russian side," he told me.


bbc--2020-05-03--Love Bug's creator tracked down to repair shop in Manila

The man behind the world 's first major computer virus outbreak has admitted his guilt , 20 years after his software infected millions of machines worldwide .
Filipino Onel de Guzman , now 44 , says he unleashed the Love Bug computer worm to steal passwords so he could access the internet without paying .
He claims he never intended it to spread globally .
And he says he regrets the damage his code caused .
`` I did n't expect it would get to the US and Europe .
I was surprised , '' he said in an interview @ @ @ @ @ @ @ book on cyber-crime .
The Love Bug pandemic began on 4 May , 2000 .
Victims received an email attachment entitled LOVE-LETTER-FOR-YOU .
It contained malicious code that would overwrite files , steal passwords , and automatically send copies of itself to all contacts in the victim 's Microsoft Outlook address book .
Within 24 hours , it was causing major problems across the globe , reportedly infecting 45 million machines .
It also overwhelmed organisations ' email systems , and some IT managers disconnected parts of their infrastructure to prevent infection .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ disruption running into billions of pounds .
In the UK , Parliament shut down its email network for several hours to protect itself , and even the Pentagon was reportedly affected .
The previous year , the Melissa bug is believed to have infected a million machines using similar tactics .
However , Love Bug dwarfed previous outbreaks and exposed how vulnerable the world 's increasing internet connectivity was to attack .
Investigators traced the virus to an email address registered to an apartment in Manila , capital of the Philippines .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a computer science student at the city 's AMA Computer College .
He was a member of an underground hacking group called Grammersoft and quickly became the lead suspect in a police investigation .
De Guzman 's lawyer organised a press conference on 11 May , at which de Guzman appeared to speak little English .
When asked whether he may have released the virus accidentally , de Guzman said : `` It is possible . ''
At the time , the Philippines had no law covering computer hacking , and neither @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosecuted .
Suspicion also fell on de Guzman 's fellow student Michael Buen , who has been cited online as the co-author of the Love Bug .
I set out to track down Onel de Guzman and resolve the 20-year mystery of Love Bug 's origin .
Online rumours claimed de Guzman had moved to Germany , Austria or the US .
Some claimed he had been recruited by Microsoft following the outbreak .
All proved to be wide of the mark .
On a forum dedicated to the Philippine underworld , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ran a mobile phone repair shop in the Quiapo district of Manila .
In April 2019 , I visited the area hoping to encounter the suspect , only to find a sprawling market containing dozens of mobile phone repair shops .
I wrote Onel de Guzman 's name on a piece of paper and showed it to shop workers at random in the hope that someone would recognise it .
Finally an employee said he knew of de Guzman and believed he now worked in another phone repair booth at a shopping mall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wandering around the mall and showing de Guzman 's name , I was directed to a cramped , messy stall at the very back of the building , and after waiting several hours for him to turn up , Onel de Guzman arrived .
He admitted having created Love Bug , which he said was a revamped version of an earlier virus he had coded in order to steal internet access passwords .
In the era of dial-up internet , such passwords were needed to get online , and de Guzman says he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He claims he initially sent the virus only to Philippine victims , with whom he communicated in chat rooms , because he only wanted to steal internet access passwords that worked in his local area .
However , in spring 2000 he tweaked the code , adding an auto-spreading feature that would send copies of the virus to victims ' Outlook contacts , using a flaw in Microsoft 's Windows 95 operating system .
He also created a title for the email attachment that would have global appeal , tempting people across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I figured out that many people want a boyfriend , they want each other , they want love , so I called it that , '' he said .
De Guzman claims he sent the virus initially to someone in Singapore , and then went out drinking with a friend .
The first he knew of the global chaos he had unleashed was when his mother told him police were hunting a hacker in Manila .
He explained that his mother hid his computer equipment .
De Guzman insists Buen had nothing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was its sole creator .
After a period of lying low , de Guzman returned to computer work but did not go back to college .
He now runs the small booth with another member of staff .
He says he regrets writing the virus , and the infamy it has brought him .
`` Sometimes I get my picture on the internet , '' he said .
`` My friends say , 'It 's you ! '
I 'm a shy person , I do n't want this . ''

I wrote Onel de Guzman's name on a piece of paper and showed it to shop workers at random in the hope that someone would recognise it. Finally an employee said he knew of de Guzman and believed he now worked in another phone repair booth at a shopping mall elsewhere in Manila.


bbc--2020-05-02--Two men and a dog chasing an Arctic dream in a lifeboat

In February 2018 two young architects bought a retired Scottish lifeboat and converted it into a self-sufficient expedition home .
After a 5,000km ( 3,100 miles ) journey to the Arctic Circle with a dog named Shackleton , their adventure continues .
For 20 years it was known as Clansman Lifeboat No .
1 .
It was 11m ( 36ft ) of orange fibreglass , capable of carrying 100 people should disaster strike the CalMac ferry MV Clansman on its journeys off Scotland 's west coast .
The lifeboat was painstakingly maintained and tested every month but never used in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was decommissioned in favour of new inflatable alternatives .
Lifeboat No .
1 was put up for auction and the winning bid , of £7,000 , came from two architects from England .
A tranquil retirement for the old lifeboat was not what they had in mind .
After seven years of architectural training , friends Guylee Simmonds , 29 , and David Schnabel , 28 , were n't quite ready to settle down to the nine-to-five life .
They knew each other from university but were now working in separate countries as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planned to celebrate with a hiking trip in Norway .
Then Guylee spotted an old escape lifeboat which had been converted to a houseboat on a river .
Soon he was hitting the internet , researching .
The germ of an idea began to form ; why not adapt one of these rugged boats and sail to Norway instead ?
`` I come from a family of seafarers , '' says Guylee .
`` It seemed to me quite natural to transform it into a boat project .
Norway has an incredible coast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do it . ''
The next challenge was to persuade David .
`` He 's from a more land-dwelling background , '' says Guylee .
David was soon on board with the idea , and when the pair became the new owners of Lifeboat No.1 they quit their jobs and threw themselves into the biggest design challenge of their careers .
`` As architects we are always designing for other people , but now we were doing it for ourselves , '' Guylee says .
Lifeboat No.1 's next journey was on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Greenock beside the River Clyde to a marine yard in Port of Newhaven , nearly 500 miles ( 805km ) away in East Sussex .
The new owners decided to do the conversion work themselves , including plumbing , electrics and an engine rebuild - partly to save money but also knowing it would give them invaluable knowledge of the boat if anything went wrong and needed fixing .
The lifeboat still had its original diesel engine but a complete refit was required .
Funding came from sponsors and selling `` shares '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay on board .
The existing layout was stripped out - benches and bilge lockers containing nearly 1,000 emergency water rations , packaged in single gulp portions .
Their design featured two double cabins , bunk beds for guests , a sitting area , chart table , kitchen , composting toilet and a shower .
A wood-burning stove would provide some Scandinavian hygge on those chilly arctic nights .
Small wind turbines were fitted and the roof was covered with solar panels capable of delivering 900W of off-grid power .
The original tarpaulin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rear superstructure of the boat was cut away , making way for a new plywood and fibreglass cockpit .
This gave them a small outside space for storage and , just as importantly , a place to sit for a barbecue or a beer on a sunny evening .
It took them more than a year to complete the work - by now the lifeboat had a new name .
Stødig - Norwegian for steadfast .
`` The lifeboat was originally manufactured in Norway - and that 's where we were heading so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Guylee .
`` Stødig means steady and reliable and that was how we saw this , an incredibly safe home - but it was also a bit tongue-in-cheek .
These boats can roll about a bit in rough seas so in another sense it 's anything but steady . ''
On a fine spring day last May , David , Guylee and his Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever , Shackleton , finally set sail from Newhaven , bound for Dover .
The interior still was n't finished and the last-minute cramming aboard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , kite-surfing gear and other equipment had left the boat unevenly weighted at first .
`` It was a bit chaotic , '' says Guylee .
`` We had n't had much time for sea trials .
So it was a mixed feeling of anxiety and excitement .
But there 's not any better feeling than going out on the open sea for the first time in your own boat . ''
From Dover they crossed the world 's busiest shipping lane at the start of a 5,000km ( 3,100 miles ) journey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in France , they skirted the Belgian and Dutch coast before passing through Germany 's Kiel Canal into the Baltic , then made their way up the Danish and Swedish coasts .
Engine problems necessitated a fortnight 's stop in Sweden but at the start of July they were ready for Norway .
As they crossed The Skagerrak , the strait on Norway 's south east coast , they encountered their most challenging conditions as Stødig lurched through 4m ( 13ft ) swells .
`` It 's a heavy boat so it tends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were breaking over the top of us , '' Guylee said .
`` Imagine being on a rollercoaster and having no idea when you can get off again . ''
The ordeal lasted half a day and when it ended they were finally in Norway .
Now the trip they 'd planned for really started - exploring 3,000km ( 1,864 miles ) of fjords and islands .
Their journey north loosely followed the old Hurtigruten ferry route which has been transporting Norwegians up and down the jagged coast since 1893 .
An early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Norsafe factory in Arendal where the lifeboat was manufactured 23 years earlier .
A guided tour of the factory was reciprocated with an inspection of Stødig for the bemused Norwegians .
The voyage could , in theory , have been completed in a fortnight but they took four months , exploring uninhabited coves , fishing , climbing , and visiting a new town every four days or so .
As architects they could bring in some income doing freelance work on their laptops .
Friends and sponsors joined them along the route for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for me is the freedom , ' said Guylee .
`` The shift from routine , not looking at the time . ''
As they journeyed north , the boat 's shallow draught - just 80cm ( 32in ) - meant they could reach places inaccessible even to yachts .
`` We were led by fishermen we chatted to , or if we saw something interesting on a chart or a satellite photo , '' says Guylee .
`` We enjoyed making decisions on where to go , day by day .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But it was also good to have a final destination to aim for . ''
One of the highpoints was Geirangerfjord , one of Norway 's most famous fjords , which they reached in July .
`` It 's one of the most breathtaking places , '' Guylee says .
`` Crystal clear water surrounded by near vertical cliffs rising up on either side .
We had a blistering heatwave which meant we could really enjoy swimming to the glacial waterfalls . ''
In September , on day 124 of the voyage , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ degrees north , the largest city in the Arctic Circle .
The winter was spent moored in Tromsø 's Skattøra marina .
Guylee found a job with local firm of architects while David was able to continue his freelance work .
When not working , the pair indulged themselves with a shared love of skiing and climbing .
Kayaking expeditions have involved some up-close encounters with orca and humpback whales .
Shackleton has wandered out onto ice floes and met some curious reindeer on his walks .
On Boxing Day the skies above @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the aurora borealis , the Northern Lights .
February brought snow storms that saw 2in ( 5cm ) thick slabs of ice form on the sides of the boat but `` over-engineering '' made the boat a cosy home in even the harshest conditions .
The plan for the summer was to set sail again - exploring even further north - but in March the coronavirus pandemic created an unexpected complication .
David 's work required him to fly home to the UK for short trips , and during once such visit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foreign nationals .
For the past two months Guylee and Shackleton have been waiting patiently for David to rejoin them so they can resume the adventure .
`` We are good at isolating ourselves - but it 's different when it 's voluntary , '' says Guylee .
He sees them keeping Stødig for the rest of the year at least - but when the time comes the boat will be sold .
Profits will go to the charity Hope Health Action which has projects in Haiti .
`` It 's far too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a marina , '' he says .
`` My hope is that the new owner will take it on a new adventure . ''
Stødig , a short film by production company be Copa Cymru & Febril Film , documenting the expedition is due for release this summer .
All pictures are subject to copyright .

"It was a bit chaotic," says Guylee. "We hadn't had much time for sea trials. So it was a mixed feeling of anxiety and excitement. But there's not any better feeling than going out on the open sea for the first time in your own boat."


bbc--2020-05-02--Bayer Leverkusen sporting director 'confident' Bundesliga will resume in May

Bayer Leverkusen are confident the Bundesliga will resume in May , says the club 's sporting director Simon Rolfes .
The German Football League was hoping a decision would be taken by government on 30 April , but the issue was delayed and the next meeting is on 6 May .
“ The most important thing was we got good feedback from politicians for our concepts for games without spectators , ” Rolfes told BBC World Service Sport .
“ They [ the government ] think that we are able to do it . ''
He added : `` In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decisions are there .
I don ’ t know exactly when but we hope we play in May , the middle or the end of May , we don ’ t know.
” • Coronavirus could affect international football for 'two or three years' The season needs to be completed by 30 June because of deals with sponsors and broadcasters and last week the league said it would be ready to return on 9 May - but 16 or 23 May are now considered more realistic dates .
With nine games remaining in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table , four points ahead of Borussia Dortmund , with Leverkusen in fifth and chasing a Champions League spot .
“ We ’ re also in the semi-finals of the Cup , and we ’ re still in the Europa League , '' said Rolfes who insisted his players are not fearful of contracting Covid-19 when football does return .
On Friday , fellow Bundesliga side Cologne said three people at the club had tested positive for coronavirus , but that training will `` continue as planned '' .
Leverkusen brought in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says there are plans in place if a player contracts the virus , with testing taking place “ every three or four days ” .
“ In the morning when they wake up , they [ players ] get five questions they have to answer and that goes to our pandemic officer and our head of medicine .
So that ’ s the first check at home , '' he said .
“ Then we try to separate them as much as possible .
We use different locker rooms at the stadium to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimum .
”

Bayer Leverkusen players are back training and are tested for Covid-19 every three--to-four days
Bayer Leverkusen are confident the Bundesliga will resume in May, says the club's sporting director Simon Rolfes.
The German Football League was hoping a decision would be taken by government on 30 April, but the issue was delayed and the next meeting is on 6 May.
“The most important thing was we got good feedback from politicians for our concepts for games without spectators,” Rolfes told BBC World Service Sport.
“They [the government] think that we are able to do it."
He added: "In the next week we will see which decisions are there. I don’t know exactly when but we hope we play in May, the middle or the end of May, we don’t know.”
The season needs to be completed by 30 June because of deals with sponsors and broadcasters and last week the league said it would be ready to return on 9 May - but 16 or 23 May are now considered more realistic dates.
With nine games remaining in the season, Bayern Munich lead the table, four points ahead of Borussia Dortmund, with Leverkusen in fifth and chasing a Champions League spot.
“We’re also in the semi-finals of the Cup, and we’re still in the Europa League," said Rolfes who insisted his players are not fearful of contracting Covid-19 when football does return.
On Friday, fellow Bundesliga side Cologne said three people at the club had tested positive for coronavirus, but that training will "continue as planned".
Leverkusen brought in a pandemic officer four years ago and Rolfes says there are plans in place if a player contracts the virus, with testing taking place “every three or four days”.
“In the morning when they wake up, they [players] get five questions they have to answer and that goes to our pandemic officer and our head of medicine. So that’s the first check at home," he said.
“Then we try to separate them as much as possible. We use different locker rooms at the stadium to try to keep the risk at a minimum.”


bbc--2020-05-02--Beaumont beats Pichot and is re-elected World Rugby chairman

Former England captain Sir Bill Beaumont has been re-elected as the chairman of World Rugby for another four years .
The 68-year-old defeated his former deputy , ex-Argentina skipper Agustin Pichot , by 28 votes to 23 .
`` I am honoured to accept the mandate of the World Rugby Council to serve as the international federation 's chairman once again , '' said Beaumont .
`` I would like to thank my union and region colleagues , members of the global rugby family and , of course , my family for their full support .
`` I would like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support over the last four years .
While we stood against each other in this campaign , we aligned in many ways , and I have the utmost respect for him .
Gus is passionate about the sport and his contribution has been significant . ''
Beaumont was first elected president in July 2016 , succeeding Bernard Lapasset .
His re-election will be confirmed at World Rugby 's annual Council meeting on 12 May , after which his new term in charge will begin .
He added : `` Over the last four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but we are at half-time and need to press on in the second half .
I now have a clear mandate to work with Bernard [ Laporte ] to implement progressive , sustainable change .
`` As an organisation , we must lead , be transparent , accountable and continue to serve for all .
We must be united in our drive to make this great sport even better , simpler , safer and more accessible .
`` Now is not the time for celebration .
We are tackling Covid-19 and must implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welfare , while optimising any opportunity to return to international rugby this year in full collaboration with club competitions for the good of players , fans and the overall financial health of the sport .
`` I am determined to ensure that the spirit of unity and solidarity that has characterised our work in response to an unprecedented global Covid-19 pandemic , is the cornerstone of a new approach that will deliver a stronger , more sustainable game . ''
Bill Sweeney , chief executive of the RFU , congratulated Beaumont on his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lead and unite rugby unions in strengthening the game so we can address the immediate and longer term challenges , '' he said .
Beaumont was always the favourite for re-election , and although Pichot ran a dynamic and passionate campaign , the former England captain won in the end with a little bit to spare .
But the hard work starts now for Beaumont , who has a lot on his plate in the short , medium , and long term .
Guiding the sport through the turbulence of the current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throughout that process he has to convince stakeholders worldwide - unions and clubs on both sides of the equator - to support his vision for the game ; without that backing and collaboration , he will achieve little .
His manifesto pledges a global sport open to all .
He now has the mandate to try and lead rugby union into a new era between now and 2024 .

Beaumont was first elected chairman of World Rugby in 2016
Former England captain Sir Bill Beaumont has been re-elected as the chairman of World Rugby for another four years.
The 68-year-old defeated his former deputy, ex-Argentina skipper Agustin Pichot, by 28 votes to 23.
French Rugby president Bernard Laporte has been elected vice-chairman.
"I am honoured to accept the mandate of the World Rugby Council to serve as the international federation's chairman once again," said Beaumont.
"I would like to thank my union and region colleagues, members of the global rugby family and, of course, my family for their full support.
"I would like to thank Gus for his friendship and support over the last four years. While we stood against each other in this campaign, we aligned in many ways, and I have the utmost respect for him. Gus is passionate about the sport and his contribution has been significant."
Beaumont was first elected president in July 2016, succeeding Bernard Lapasset.
His re-election will be confirmed at World Rugby's annual Council meeting on 12 May, after which his new term in charge will begin.
He added: "Over the last four years we have achieved a lot, but we are at half-time and need to press on in the second half. I now have a clear mandate to work with Bernard [Laporte] to implement progressive, sustainable change.
"As an organisation, we must lead, be transparent, accountable and continue to serve for all. We must be united in our drive to make this great sport even better, simpler, safer and more accessible.
"Now is not the time for celebration. We are tackling Covid-19 and must implement an appropriate return-to-rugby strategy that prioritises player welfare, while optimising any opportunity to return to international rugby this year in full collaboration with club competitions for the good of players, fans and the overall financial health of the sport.
"I am determined to ensure that the spirit of unity and solidarity that has characterised our work in response to an unprecedented global Covid-19 pandemic, is the cornerstone of a new approach that will deliver a stronger, more sustainable game."
Bill Sweeney, chief executive of the RFU, congratulated Beaumont on his re-election.
"Bill is ideally placed to lead and unite rugby unions in strengthening the game so we can address the immediate and longer term challenges," he said.
Analysis
Chris Jones, BBC Sport rugby union correspondent
Beaumont was always the favourite for re-election, and although Pichot ran a dynamic and passionate campaign, the former England captain won in the end with a little bit to spare.
But the hard work starts now for Beaumont, who has a lot on his plate in the short, medium, and long term. Guiding the sport through the turbulence of the current situation is the immediate priority, but throughout that process he has to convince stakeholders worldwide - unions and clubs on both sides of the equator - to support his vision for the game; without that backing and collaboration, he will achieve little.
His manifesto pledges a global sport open to all. He now has the mandate to try and lead rugby union into a new era between now and 2024.


bbc--2020-05-02--'All I wanted to do was hold her' - ex-Canada keeper on having to self-isolate away from baby daught

'All I wanted to do was hold her' - ex-Canada keeper on having to self-isolate away from baby daughter

`` When I did finally get to hold her , it was better than any World Cup or Olympic game . ''
Former Canada goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc has spoken of the emotions she experienced when forced to stay away from her newborn daughter for two weeks .
The 40-year-old was admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties a week after her daughter Paris was born .
Doctors then told her she needed to self-isolate because of concerns she had contracted coronavirus while being treated .
“ I could not see , hold , touch anything with my baby for two more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for me as I ’ d just given birth and all I wanted to do was hold her , ” she told BBC World Service 's Sporthour .
LeBlanc , who retired in 2015 after making 110 appearances during her 18-year international career , spent several days in hospital after being diagnosed with fluid on the lungs and high blood pressure .
“ The drive to the hospital was difficult as Paris was holding my finger like babies do and every reality and false reality was racing through my mind , ” said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cups won Olympic bronze at London 2012 .
“ I was looking at her and thinking ‘ is this it ? '
” LeBlanc was forced to rely on seeing her daughter “ through glass ” in a door and “ face-timed her 40 times a day ” as a way to get through the separation .
During that time , she also took part in a video call with team-mates to help pass the time , where they avoided talking about LeBlanc being apart from her baby .
“ But one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and was like ‘ wait , where ’ s the baby ?
’ and we all ended up laughing , “ she added .
“ As athletes we know the worst thing is having a bad game , as a goalie messing up a goal , but one of the things I came to realise was that it was just a game and this is life and death .
“ Once you give birth to a child , you fall in love in a way you never knew existed .
”

Karina LeBlanc played 110 times for Canada
"When I did finally get to hold her, it was better than any World Cup or Olympic game."
Former Canada goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc has spoken of the emotions she experienced when forced to stay away from her newborn daughter for two weeks.
The 40-year-old was admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties a week after her daughter Paris was born. Doctors then told her she needed to self-isolate because of concerns she had contracted coronavirus while being treated.
“I could not see, hold, touch anything with my baby for two more weeks and that was the hardest part for me as I’d just given birth and all I wanted to do was hold her,” she told BBC World Service's Sporthour.
LeBlanc, who retired in 2015 after making 110 appearances during her 18-year international career, spent several days in hospital after being diagnosed with fluid on the lungs and high blood pressure.
“The drive to the hospital was difficult as Paris was holding my finger like babies do and every reality and false reality was racing through my mind,” said LeBlanc, who played at five World Cups won Olympic bronze at London 2012.
“I was looking at her and thinking ‘is this it?'”
LeBlanc was forced to rely on seeing her daughter “through glass” in a door and “face-timed her 40 times a day” as a way to get through the separation.
During that time, she also took part in a video call with team-mates to help pass the time, where they avoided talking about LeBlanc being apart from her baby.
“But one of the players came on the chat late and was like ‘wait, where’s the baby?’ and we all ended up laughing,“ she added.
“As athletes we know the worst thing is having a bad game, as a goalie messing up a goal, but one of the things I came to realise was that it was just a game and this is life and death.
“Once you give birth to a child, you fall in love in a way you never knew existed.”


bbc--2020-05-02--Shannon Courtenay: From smoking, drinking & partying to world-title dreams

Last updated on .From the section Boxing But for British boxer Shannon Courtenay , her whole approach to life changed from the moment she stepped foot in London ’ s Finchley Amateur Boxing Club five years ago .
The 26-year-old from Watford is now unbeaten in five professional bouts , has featured on the undercard of York Hall and O2 Arena fight nights and trains alongside world-class boxers at Adam Booth ’ s gym .
Her journey into boxing is far from typical ; she is a latecomer to the sport , did not navigate through the youth ranks or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nor is she living out a lifelong dream .
“ But I found boxing - and boxing found me - at the perfect time , ” she tells BBC Sport .
‘ I threw my cigarettes in the bin ’ In 2015 , Courtenay was working in a pub , smoking up to 40 cigarettes a day and , more often than not , her evening meal would be a takeout curry or pizza .
She headed down to Finchley ABC for one purpose .
“ I just wanted to lose weight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first day at Finchley , everything changed .
I walked out of the gym and threw my cigs into a big blue bin next to the door.
” She has never smoked a cigarette since .
“ I drove home and had a chicken salad for dinner , which was unheard of for me , ” she adds .
“ The next day I woke up at five o ’ clock in the morning and went running .
I kept doing it every day and before I knew it I was winning titles.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ fit the pro game ’ Despite her inexperience , Courtenay ’ s raw power and aggressive , come-forward fighting style was soon being noticed by fans and promoters alike .
She was , fittingly , given the nickname ‘ Baby-faced Assassin ’ by a boxing journalist after an amateur bout .
“ And it ’ s worked well because people can relate to me.
” Being relatable with the public stems from her upbringing ; her mum was a pub landlady and Courtenay has grown up in and around that environment since the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used to the banter and I can dish it out as well , ” she adds .
“ I ’ m easy to talk to because I ’ ve grown up around a vast variety of people.
” But even with her light-hearted nature , Courtenay has experienced the “ vulgar side ” of social media since turning professional .
“ When I first turned pro , everything suddenly changed .
I went from being a nobody to people taking pictures in supermarkets and suddenly social media blew up , ” she says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for me at first .
Some people on social media can be nasty.
” Courtenay does hope to use her online presence to inspire young girls , starting first with her younger sister , although says she was not too comfortable with the ‘ role model ’ tag at first .
“ I ’ d laugh at the thought of it , ” she says .
“ But now I get messages daily from people saying that because of me , their daughter took up boxing or they ’ ve gone for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 13-year-old sister and I know there aren ’ t that many role models around .
I see models on Instagram who are filtered to the nines .
“ I tell my sister that these women aren ’ t perfect .
They ’ re photoshopped .
I ’ d rather she be inspired by athletes who are doing things.
” Courtenay was scheduled to fight in Doncaster on 24 April , a bout which was postponed because of the ban on sporting events in the United Kingdom .
This setback has not dampened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to be a two-weight world champion , ” she says .
Although she is reluctant to state when she will win a first world title , Courtenay is adamant that she must be “ fast-tracked ” in professional boxing , so that she can retire and start a family .
She says : “ I will probably stop boxing at about 32 or 33 so I can have children .
If you ’ re a male boxer and want to start a family , it doesn ’ t affect you in any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult for a woman .
For me , I would have to take about two years out of the sport .
So by the time I ’ m ready to have a family , I ’ ll probably have to retire . ''
Likeable , a ticket-seller and an explosive boxer but it is early days and time will tell how much the ‘ Baby-faced Assassin ’ achieves over the next six or seven years .
She jokes that her alias may need to be shortened should she go on for any longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get some botox because otherwise I ’ ll just be known as ‘ The Assassin .
’ ''

Last updated on .From the section Boxing
Shannon Courtenay (right) was last in action at London's York Hall in December, beating Spain's Buchra el Quaissi by stoppage in the fifth round
“I was a heavy smoker, drinker and party animal.”
For many, quitting those addictions and vices can take time.
But for British boxer Shannon Courtenay, her whole approach to life changed from the moment she stepped foot in London’s Finchley Amateur Boxing Club five years ago.
The 26-year-old from Watford is now unbeaten in five professional bouts, has featured on the undercard of York Hall and O2 Arena fight nights and trains alongside world-class boxers at Adam Booth’s gym.
Her journey into boxing is far from typical; she is a latecomer to the sport, did not navigate through the youth ranks or Great Britain’s amateur set-up, nor is she living out a lifelong dream.
“But I found boxing - and boxing found me - at the perfect time,” she tells BBC Sport.
‘I threw my cigarettes in the bin’
Shannon Courtenay joined her local boxing gym in 2015 after deciding she wanted to lose weight and get fit
In 2015, Courtenay was working in a pub, smoking up to 40 cigarettes a day and, more often than not, her evening meal would be a takeout curry or pizza.
She headed down to Finchley ABC for one purpose.
“I just wanted to lose weight,” she explains.
“After that first day at Finchley, everything changed. I walked out of the gym and threw my cigs into a big blue bin next to the door.”
She has never smoked a cigarette since.
“I drove home and had a chicken salad for dinner, which was unheard of for me,” she adds.
“The next day I woke up at five o’clock in the morning and went running. I kept doing it every day and before I knew it I was winning titles.”
‘I knew my face would fit the pro game’
Shannon Courtenay fights at super-bantamweight
Despite her inexperience, Courtenay’s raw power and aggressive, come-forward fighting style was soon being noticed by fans and promoters alike.
She was, fittingly, given the nickname ‘Baby-faced Assassin’ by a boxing journalist after an amateur bout.
Three years after her first fight, she signed a professional contract with Matchroom Boxing.
“I knew my face would fit the pro game,” she says.
“My style is fan-friendly. I don’t mind taking a dig to land two more. You don’t really see women fight like that. Although that isn’t always the best way to go about it.”
Women’s boxing has been on a high in recent years through the success of Ireland’s Olympic gold medallist and world champion Katie Taylor, the most decorated female fighter active today, and Britain's now-retired Nicola Adams, the first female to win a boxing gold medal at an Olympic Games.
Courtenay, while appreciating that other fighters have paved the way, believes that being relatively new to the sport will work in her favour.
“My body is still fresh, I don't have that much wear and tear like others may have. And because I have only been in the sport for four or five years, I am loving every second of it. Whereas other women fighters may be getting sick of it," she says.
'Social media can be a nasty place'
It is not just Courtenay’s boxing ability which is proving popular.
From documenting her fitness regime during the coronavirus lockdown, to a hilarious video edit of retired former world champion Tony Bellew's parenting struggles, external-link her activeness on social media and willingness to interact with fans has helped build a loyal following.
“I’m just myself. I don’t put on an act. I don’t pretend to be a character which I then have to play for the rest of my life,” she says.
“And it’s worked well because people can relate to me.”
Being relatable with the public stems from her upbringing; her mum was a pub landlady and Courtenay has grown up in and around that environment since the age of four.
“I am used to the banter and I can dish it out as well,” she adds.
“I’m easy to talk to because I’ve grown up around a vast variety of people.”
But even with her light-hearted nature, Courtenay has experienced the “vulgar side” of social media since turning professional.
“When I first turned pro, everything suddenly changed. I went from being a nobody to people taking pictures in supermarkets and suddenly social media blew up,” she says.
“It got a bit difficult for me at first. Some people on social media can be nasty.”
Courtenay does hope to use her online presence to inspire young girls, starting first with her younger sister, although says she was not too comfortable with the ‘role model’ tag at first.
“I’d laugh at the thought of it,” she says.
“But now I get messages daily from people saying that because of me, their daughter took up boxing or they’ve gone for a run.
“I’ve got a 13-year-old sister and I know there aren’t that many role models around. I see models on Instagram who are filtered to the nines.
“I tell my sister that these women aren’t perfect. They’re photoshopped. I’d rather she be inspired by athletes who are doing things.”
Retirement and starting a family
Courtenay was scheduled to fight in Doncaster on 24 April, a bout which was postponed because of the ban on sporting events in the United Kingdom.
This setback has not dampened her spirits or ambitions.
“I want to be a two-weight world champion,” she says.
Although she is reluctant to state when she will win a first world title, Courtenay is adamant that she must be “fast-tracked” in professional boxing, so that she can retire and start a family.
She says: “I will probably stop boxing at about 32 or 33 so I can have children. If you’re a male boxer and want to start a family, it doesn’t affect you in any way.
“But it’s difficult for a woman. For me, I would have to take about two years out of the sport. So by the time I’m ready to have a family, I’ll probably have to retire."
Likeable, a ticket-seller and an explosive boxer but it is early days and time will tell how much the ‘Baby-faced Assassin’ achieves over the next six or seven years.
She jokes that her alias may need to be shortened should she go on for any longer, saying: “I might have to get some botox because otherwise I’ll just be known as ‘The Assassin.’"


bbc--2020-05-02--Sunday's gossip: De Bruyne hints at quitting Man City

Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne , 28 , has hinted he could quit Manchester City if their Champions League ban is upheld .
( HLN , via Manchester Evening News ) Roma want to sign Chile forward Alexis Sanchez on loan .
The 31-year-old is currently at Inter Milan , on loan from Manchester United .
( Sky Sport Italia , via Goal - in Italian ) Roma also want to keep Manchester United loanee and England defender Chris Smalling , 30 , for at least another season , says manager Paulo Fonseca .
( ESPN ) Bayern Munich and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be a target for Newcastle if they make Mauricio Pochettino the club 's new manager .
( Mirror ) Lille have received an 85m euros ( £75m ) bid from an unnamed club for Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen .
The 21-year-old is wanted by Liverpool .
( Telefoot - in French ) Real Madrid are planning to sell at least five players this summer , including Wales winger Gareth Bale , 30 .
( AS - in Spanish ) Leicester and Nigeria midfielder Wilfred Ndidi , 23 , is a target for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and West Ham are among a number of Premier League clubs to have enquired about Real Madrid and Serbia striker Luka Jovic , 22 .
( 90min ) Leicester will make a move for Arsenal and Scotland left-back Kieran Tierney , 22 , if England left-back Ben Chilwell , 23 , is sold .
( Express ) Barcelona could sell Uruguay striker Luis Suarez this summer with several MLS teams said to be interested in the 33-year-old .
( Marca ) Newcastle , Everton , West Ham and Leicester are all monitoring the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jesse Lingard , 27 .
( 90min ) Leeds will look to make 20-year-old French goalkeeper Illan Meslier 's loan deal from Lorient permanent if they win promotion to the Premier League .
( Telegraph )

Last updated on .From the section Gossip
Real Madrid are preparing a £70m bid for 27-year-old Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba. The France international has told the Premier League club he will not sign a contract extension. (Sunday Express) external-link
Bayern Munich and Brazil midfielder Philippe Coutinho, 27, will be a target for Newcastle United if they make former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino their new manager. (Sunday Mirror) external-link
The Magpies and West Ham United are among a number of Premier League clubs to have enquired about Real Madrid and Serbia striker Luka Jovic, 22. (90min) external-link
Barcelona are willing to sell some of their biggest names, including 29-year-old France forward Antoine Griezmann, this summer in order to raise funds. (Daily Star Sunday) external-link
When Leeds United almost conquered Europe, via Barca, Milan and Lazio... As told by those involved...
Roma want to sign Manchester United and Chile forward Alexis Sanchez on loan. The 31-year-old is at Inter Milan on a temporary basis this sason. (Sky Sport Italia, via Goal - in Italian) external-link
Roma also want to keep on-loan United and England defender Chris Smalling, 30, for at least another season, says manager Paulo Fonseca. (ESPN) external-link
Real Madrid are planning to sell at least five players this summer, including Wales winger Gareth Bale, 30. (AS - in Spanish) external-link
Leicester City and Nigeria midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, 23, is a target for Paris St-Germain. (ESPN) external-link
The Foxes will make a move for Arsenal and Scotland left-back Kieran Tierney, 22, if England defender Ben Chilwell, 23, is sold. (Sunday Express) external-link
Lille have received an 85m euros (£75m) bid from an unnamed club for Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen. The 21-year-old is wanted by Liverpool. (Telefoot - in French) external-link
Barcelona could sell Uruguay striker Luis Suarez this summer with several Major League Soccer teams said to be interested in the 33-year-old. (Marca) external-link
Newcastle, Everton, West Ham and Leicester are all monitoring the situation of Manchester United and England midfielder Jesse Lingard, 27. (90min) external-link
The Hammers are considering selling 25-year-old French striker Sebastien Haller - their record signing - after just one season to fund the purchase of 26-year-old Belgium forward Michy Batshuayi, who Chelsea want £40m for. (Sunday Express) external-link
Southampton hope to sign Reims' French defender Axel Disasi, 22. (Mail on Sunday) external-link
Leeds United will look to make 20-year-old French goalkeeper Illan Meslier's loan deal from Lorient permanent if they win promotion to the Premier League. (Sunday Telegraph) external-link


bbc--2020-05-02--Brighton 'not in favour' of neutral venues proposal

Playing the remaining Premier League fixtures at neutral venues has the `` potential to have a material effect on the integrity of the competition '' , says Brighton 's chief executive Paul Barber .
On Friday , top-flight clubs were told on a video conference call that neutral venues will be the only way to complete the season .
`` Up to 10 stadiums '' would be used to resume the 2019-20 campaign .
But Barber says his club are `` not in favour '' of the proposal .
`` Clearly , we must all be prepared to accept some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind closed doors is very likely to be a necessary compromise to play our remaining games while continuing to fully support the government 's efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus , '' he said .
`` But at this critical point in the season , playing matches in neutral venues has , in our view , potential to have a material effect on the integrity of the competition . ''
• No-one is suggesting we will play now , says Saints chief executive The Premier League has been suspended since 13 March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clubs are committed to playing the 92 remaining fixtures of the 2019-20 season .
A major factor in the decision to use neutral venues is it try to reduce any chance of fans congregating , and the selected grounds will be largely based on a rating from the police and the Sports Grounds Safety Authority .
Not all of the proposed eight to 10 neutral venues will necessarily be Premier League grounds , although the vast majority will be .
Brighton are 15th in the league , two points above the relegation zone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - including home fixtures against Arsenal , Manchester United , Liverpool and Manchester City .
`` Five of our nine remaining matches [ are ] due to be played at the Amex - all five matches are very difficult but four are against some of the biggest clubs in European football , '' Barber added .
`` The disadvantages of us not playing the league 's top teams in our home stadium and in familiar surroundings , even with 27,000 Albion fans very unlikely to be present at the Amex , are very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept there may also be some benefit from playing our remaining four away matches at neutral venues but the fixture list simply is n't equally balanced at this stage of the season , and we did n't play our first 29 matches of the season in this way .
So , in our opinion , one thing does n't cancel out the other . ''

Five of Brighton's remaining nine Premier League fixtures are due to be played at the Amex Stadium
A growing number of Premier League clubs are open to playing the remaining fixtures at neutral venues but with the threat of relegation removed.
Top-flight clubs have been told that using up to 10 neutral stadiums will be the only way to complete the season.
Brighton say they are "not in favour" of using neutral venues because it may affect the "integrity" of the league.
Clubs near the bottom of the table feel it is unfair to play in such different conditions when at risk of relegation.
The Premier League has been suspended since 13 March because of the coronavirus pandemic but all clubs are committed to playing the 92 remaining fixtures of the 2019-20 season if and when safe to do so.
Clubs accept matches may need to be played behind closed doors for an extended period and that it may well not be financially viable to wait until normal playing conditions, such as having fans attending, can resume.
However, those near the bottom are concerned playing matches at neutral stadiums, behind closed doors and with the ongoing uncertainty over the availability of players whose contracts expire on 30 June makes for a vastly different situation to that in which their first 28 or 29 fixtures this season were played.
They argue it is impossible to uphold the integrity of the competition under these circumstances.
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said the club "fully appreciate why playing behind closed doors is very likely to be a necessary compromise to play our remaining games".
However, he added: "At this critical point in the season, playing matches in neutral venues has, in our view, potential to have a material effect on the integrity of the competition."
Clubs who risk losing large amounts of money if relegated are also worried their finances could take a further hit if they still have to play matches behind closed doors in next year's Championship.
If there was no relegation from the Premier League, two or three teams could still be promoted from this year's Championship and a 22- or 23-team top flight run next season.
A major factor in the decision to require neutral venues is reducing the chance of fans congregating, and the selection of grounds will be largely based on a rating from the police and the Sports Grounds Safety Authority.
Not all of the proposed eight to 10 neutral venues will necessarily be Premier League grounds, although the vast majority will be.
Premier League clubs will discuss these issues again after the government's review of the lockdown restrictions on 7 May.
'Obvious disadvantages' to not playing at home - Barber
Project Restart: Glenn Murray says teams 'put under pressure' to return to football
Brighton are 15th in the league, two points above the relegation zone, with nine games left to play - including home fixtures against Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City.
"The disadvantages of us not playing the league's top teams in our home stadium and in familiar surroundings, even with 27,000 Albion fans very unlikely to be present at the Amex, are very obvious," said Barber.
"Clearly, we must accept there may also be some benefit from playing our remaining four away matches at neutral venues but the fixture list simply isn't equally balanced at this stage of the season, and we didn't play our first 29 matches of the season in this way. So, in our opinion, one thing doesn't cancel out the other."
West Ham, who are 16th in the table and only clear of the relegation zone on goal difference, want to play their remaining five home games at London Stadium but feel this does not set them apart from other clubs with major goals still to play for.
Proposals will make games 'safer' than supermarket - Parish
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish says football needs to "at least contemplate whether it's possible" to resume using measures such as neutral grounds.
Writing in the Sunday Times, external-link Parish said playing the remaining games would give every club "a fair crack at the best league position they can achieve".
Palace are 11th in the league on 39 points, 12 points clear of relegation and nine points behind Chelsea in fourth, with nine games to play.
"I've seen all the proposals for training and travel and, while there are challenges, those proposals offer a level of protection to players, staff and officials that I believe will render Premier League football one of the safest places in society to co-exist, much safer than a journey to the supermarket at present," said Parish.
He added that the issues facing football could be in place for months and affect next season so "the more we can work out now, the better chance we have of coming out of this with the game we all love in position to recover over time".
However, Parish said that football would not unnecessarily occupy NHS resources or "take testing capacity from one person in greater need".
He added that the "issue of player and staff welfare has to be treated with the utmost seriousness". Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has said players are "scared" about returning to action amid the pandemic.
Southampton chief executive Martin Semmens told BBC Radio Solent that it would not be appropriate for the Premier League to plan for an immediate return.
However, he said the league and clubs "must plan for how we will bring our business back, otherwise there will be no business and there will be no football club".
Former Liverpool and Newcastle defender Jose Enrique, who now works as a football agent, said many players were concerned about the current situation, especially those whose contracts expire on 30 June, which is likely to be before the season ends.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "It's a worrying time for everyone.
"We're looking after our players. They are scared, but at the moment there's nothing we can say. We're all waiting to see what are the decisions and see what the next step is.
"It's going to be a very difficult decision and we have to see what happens."


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: What global travel may look like ahead of a vaccine

Sun loungers separated by plexiglass .
Blood tests and sanitiser spray-downs before flights .
These might sound extreme , but they are real measures some in the travel industry are looking at to keep holidaymakers feeling safe and comfortable in a post-lockdown world .
It 's too early to say when international travel might restart again - Argentina , for example , has extended flight bans until September and a UK minister has said he wo n't be booking a summer holiday anytime soon .
But what will overseas trips look like when they 're able to be taken again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Many airports , including in London , have already introduced measures to cater for essential travellers based on government guidelines - so they might sound familiar .
These include between one and two-metre distancing at all times ( excluding people who live together ) , hand sanitisers distributed throughout the airport and efforts to spread passengers more evenly across terminals .
In the US , the Transport Security Administration ( TSA ) says travellers should wash their hands for 20 seconds - in accordance with official guidelines - before and after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hong Kong International Airport , testing is under way on a full-body disinfectant device .
This , the airport says , can sanitise users within 40 seconds , using sprays that kill bacteria and viruses on skin and clothing .
The airport is also trialling autonomous cleaning robots that move around killing microbes by zapping them with ultraviolet light .
Similar robots have been tested in makeshift hospital rooms .
Airports that have electronic check-in kiosks are encouraging passengers to use them where possible to avoid unnecessary interaction .
Most will display posters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their buildings .
James Thornton , chief executive of Intrepid travel group , says the process of passing through airports is likely to take longer because of stricter checks .
`` Just as taking out liquids and devices before going through machines has become the norm , so too will new social distancing guidelines , '' he says , adding : `` It 's possible we 'll see the introduction of an immunity passport . ''
Earlier this year , several airports announced they were introducing `` thermal detection screening '' in efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus overseas .
However , the procedure divided experts on its effectiveness , as some people are said to be asymptomatic , and many airports will not be introducing it .
Some have gone further , though , with Emirates offering passengers rapid Covid-19 blood tests prior to boarding at Dubai airport terminals .
Emirates says the tests produce results within 10 minutes .
As you take your seat , you 'll have to picture the usual smiles from the flight attendants , who will most likely be wearing masks .
You might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll probably be wearing one , too - as more and more countries recommend their use .
Your mind , meanwhile , should be at ease in the knowledge that most major airlines will have stepped up their cleaning and sanitation procedures , leaving your tray table , seat rest and safety belt suitably disinfected .
If you 've booked your flight with Korean Air , do n't be alarmed if people appear in the aisle wearing full personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , as the airline says it plans to issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eye masks .
This might be as good a time as any to appreciate that you wo n't be sharing either of your armrests , as most airlines have said that flights will not be fully booked and middle seats will be kept empty ( at least to begin with ) .
• How will airlines get flying again ?
An airline pilot for Tui , who asked to be named only as Christian , said that while spreading passengers on a plane made sense in respect of distancing guidelines , it could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Losing a third of seats means either that airlines fly at a loss , or we go back to the good old days when a Paris to Nice return ticket used to cost £1,000 ( €1,145 ; $ 1,245 ) in today 's money . ''
Christian says countries that rely heavily on tourism are already contacting operators .
`` I believe that we will see a small restart of flights to selected destinations towards the end of the season . ''
How does an Italian beach holiday sound ?
Well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tall sheets of plexiglass used to separate sun loungers as you look for a shady spot in the sand .
`` I 've seen drawings , '' says Ulf Sonntag of the Institute for Tourism Research in Northern Europe , `` they are seriously considering this as an idea in Italy . ''
Mr Sonntag says European destinations are also looking at ways to manage guests at hotels , including only permitting every other hotel to open , or every other room within a building to be occupied .
`` If the central @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to work with that .
It 's not looking like pools can open at Mediterranean resorts , '' he adds .
While restaurants are looking at spreading tables more sparsely , one Portuguese hotel chain , Vila Gale , said it had been `` stocking up on hand sanitisers '' and `` drawing up a la carte menus to replace buffets '' .
Nikolaos Sipsas , a professor of medicine in Athens , agrees that buffet meals are a big risk , along with pools , bars and beaches .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in other words there will be bathers , but they wo n't be close to each other .
We will not see the phenomenon of organised beaches with towels right next to each other , '' he says .
• I do n't want a voucher , what are the rules ?
• Can I get a holiday refund and what are my travel rights ?
Other European countries have been discussing `` tourist corridors '' to connect areas and member states least affected by Covid-19 .
Croatia , for example , has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Czech Republic and Slovakia with special access to its beaches this summer .
Will this change the future of travel for good ?
You might not have enjoyed the sound of that hypothetical overseas holiday .
And you 're probably not alone .
The fact is , more holidays in future are likely to be taken at home .
`` People are likely to be travelling less internationally , what used to be called a staycation will change , and could become the norm , '' Andy Rutherford , founder of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In the wake of the global pandemic , ship cruises , ski holidays and long-haul flights could lose their appeal , especially as the focus returns to green technology and ways to tackle the climate crisis , Mr Rutherford says .
`` Our commitment to travel must be based on mutual respect , solidarity and responsibility . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • STRESS : How to look after your mental health Mr Sonntag agrees the pandemic may result in a change of habits : `` Domestic travel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't always need to travel so far . ''
A recent survey by the International Air Transport Association ( IATA ) found that 60 % of people questioned would wait for two months before booking flights after the coronavirus is contained - 40 % said they would wait for at least six months .
Boeing , which has cut 10 % of its global workforce in response to Covid-19 , has said it does not expect air travel to return to 2019 levels until at least 2023 .
IAG , the parent company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take `` several years '' .

This might be as good a time as any to appreciate that you won't be sharing either of your armrests, as most airlines have said that flights will not be fully booked and middle seats will be kept empty (at least to begin with).


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus lockdown: Can nature help improve our mood?

At a time when so many of us are facing a heightened sense of threat as well as deep worries about our future , can nature lift our spirits ?
`` Our current crisis has switched us out of normal existence and into survival mode , '' says Dr Anna Jorgensen , who researches the connection between environment and wellbeing at the University of Sheffield .
`` We no longer see ourselves as quite so immortal , '' she says .
With far more people unable to work , or working from home , many have been inspired to explore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on their immediate surroundings .
As one Instagram user summed it up : `` [ It ] takes a lockdown to find new paths from home .
Escaped the 'office ' to follow the River Trent winding through the floodplain at the bottom of our road , past gnarly old tree stumps and a statuesque heron . ''
As factory and car emissions have declined , there are fewer tiny particles in the air , so it 's easier to see beyond built-up areas and to the stars in the night sky .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of birds .
There is also greater interest in gardening .
Google Trends shows a doubling of worldwide online searches for compost and seeds compared with a year ago .
Can experiences in nature help us manage stress and anxiety ?
While the impact of experiencing nature on our physical health is less well documented , a wealth of studies have demonstrated the positive effects of the natural world on our mental health .
Even a brief nature fix - 10 minutes of wind brushing across our cheek , or the sun on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explains Dr Mathew White , from the University of Exeter .
If we immerse ourselves in beautiful landscapes , like a rich coastline or a wild forest teeming with an array of species , we feel more intense emotions , he adds .
Connecting with nature can help us feel happier and more energised , with an increased sense of meaning and purpose , as well as making tasks seem more manageable .
Dr Gretchen C Daily from Stanford University , in the US , uses this evidence to help the World Bank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policies to integrate the natural environment into our urban landscapes .
Nature-based activities , such as gardening and farming , have been used as part of mental health treatments around the world for centuries .
GPs in London , Liverpool and Dorset have been prescribing nature experiences for patients with depression and anxiety .
These include a healthy walk or planting mint to nurture and grow .
Evidence indicates you can also benefit from `` bathing '' yourself in nature remotely .
One experiment installed large plasma displays of real-time natural scenes outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connection to their wider social community and the natural world increasing .
Sounds have a particular power to evoke memory , according to PhD researcher Alex Smalley .
So your feelings can be enhanced by listening to recordings of natural sounds , such as crashing waves or squawks of forest birds , after you 've experienced them in person or watched a powerful film or programme featuring that landscape .
Dr Jorgensen believes seeing the recurrent rhythms and rebirth of nature , in which plants and animals survive despite the harshness of winter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help us cope with the tragedies in our lives .
Why does nature have such a positive effect ?
Part of nature 's power lies in its ability to wash away whatever is provoking a lot of our stress , explains Dr Daily .
Slow movements such as the ripples of water or clouds moving across the sky place effortless demands on our working memory but enough to distract us from spiralling rumination , self-blame and hopelessness .
Researchers call this capacity to hold our attention the `` soft fascination '' of nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to appreciate the power we have to nurture , and gives us a sense of achievement when the plant flourishes , which Dr Jorgensen says is particularly important for those struggling with their mental health .
According to Dr White , the benefits are maximised if we can spend a total of two hours a week connecting with nature .
The more senses we use - not only sight and sound but also smell , feel and taste - the greater the benefits .
• Pay regular visits to a tree near where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaves , blossoms or seeds .
Do particular birds visit ?
Does its bark host lichen , moss or insects ?
• Open a window to catch the sounds of leaves or scent of fresh rain .
• Walk first thing in the morning , or before sunset , when the warm colours and low angle of light highlight the textures of the natural world , including tree trunks and leaves .
• Plant seeds , using ones you find in fruit or near trees if you ca n't get hold of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kitchen paper , without soil or a pot .
• Think of nature when you are cooking , savouring the bright colours and tart flavours of fruits such as redcurrants .
When you inhale your morning coffee , imagine the rainforest birds that help cross-pollinate coffee plants .
• Incorporate natural design elements in your home , hanging branches or twigs on your walls or piling water-rounded stones on a shelf or windowsill .
• Try ideas from the National Trust site 50 things to do before you are 11-and-three-quarters .
Many are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age .

As factory and car emissions have declined, there are fewer tiny particles in the air, so it's easier to see beyond built-up areas and to the stars in the night sky. Less city noise also highlights the sounds of birds.


bbc--2020-05-02--Coronavirus: Treating Delhi's dogs and cats in the pandemic

It is not just people feeling the effects of India 's lockdown : the country 's animals are also adjusting @ @ @ @ @ But some are coping better than others , so Jai Prakash , a veterinary worker @ @ @ @ @ duties to make sure the city 's animals get the care they need .

It is not just people feeling the effects of India's lockdown: the country's animals are also adjusting to the strange circumstances.
But some are coping better than others, so Jai Prakash, a veterinary worker, has stepped up his duties to make sure the city's animals get the care they need.
Filmed and edited by Anshul Verma


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: Intensive care and other key terms explained

• A person who has a disease but is displaying no symptoms of that illness .
A study of one village in Italy suggests 50-75 % of Covid-19 cases there could be asymptomatic .
• The first part of the UK 's strategy to deal with coronavirus involved trying to catch cases early and trace anyone who had been in close contact • A generic name for a group of viruses which cause illness and disease in humans and animals .
The disease caused can be severe or mild .
The common cold and influenza ( flu ) are examples @ @ @ @ @ @ @ name of the specific disease caused by the type of coronavirus first detected in Wuhan in China in late 2019 .
It primarily affects the lungs .
• The second part of the UK strategy to deal with coronavirus involves delaying its spread by introducing 'social distancing ' where people avoid close contact with others by working from home , avoiding public transport and restricting major events .
• Describes measures to prevent a very high number of cases of disease occurring at the same time and potentially overloading health services .
By @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing , cases take place over a longer period of time and hospitals remain within capacity - the 'peak ' of cases is flattened into a smoother curve on a chart .
• Flu is a virus which routinely causes disease in humans and animals .
There are two main types or strains of flu , A and B .
These are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics .
• Describes how the spread of a disease can be limited by a certain number of people ( or animals ) being exposed to it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread .
• A person whose body can withstand or fend off disease is said to be immune to that disease .
Once a person has recovered from Covid-19 , they are thought to have some immunity to the disease - that is , they can not get it again - for a certain period of time .
However how long immunity lasts is not known , and there have been some reports of people testing positive for a second time .
• Any restriction on movement or daily life , where public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain at home behind closed doors .
Lockdowns have been imposed in several countries as part of drastic efforts to control the spread of disease .
• The fourth part of the UK 's strategy to deal with coronavirus involves mitigating the impact of a high number of case on public services .
This could mean the NHS stopping all non-critical care and police only responding to major crimes and emergencies .
• The NHS 's 24-hour phone line which offers medical advice to anyone who rings it .
Anyone who suspects they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call NHS 111 rather than attend a GP surgery or hospital A & E .
• Taking measures to avoid coming into direct contact with others .
This can mean avoiding any social gatherings , and in daily life , keeping a distance of at least 2 metres from other people .
• Usually refers to measures taken by a government to restrict daily life while it deals with a crisis .
This can involve closing schools and workplaces , restricting the movement of people and even possibly deploying the armed forces to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are any outward physical sign of disease , such as a cough , sore throat or fever .
They are triggered by the body 's immune system as it attempts to fight off the infection .

Antibodies test A medical test that can show if a person has had the coronavirus and now has some immunity. The test detects antibodies in the blood, which are produced by the body to fight off the disease.
Asymptomatic Someone who has a disease but does not have any of the symptoms it causes. Some studies suggest some people with coronavirus carry the disease but don't show the common symptoms, such as a persistent cough or high temperature.
Containment phase The first part of the UK's strategy to deal with the coronavirus, which involved trying to identify infected people early and trace anyone who had been in close contact with them.
Coronavirus One of a group of viruses that can cause severe or mild illness in humans and animals. The coronavirus currently sweeping the world causes the disease Covid-19. The common cold and influenza (flu) are other types of coronaviruses.
Covid-19 The disease caused by the coronavirus first detected in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. It primarily affects the lungs.
Delay phase The second part of the UK's strategy to deal with the coronavirus, in which measures such as social distancing are used to delay its spread.
Fixed penalty notice A fine designed to deal with an offence on the spot, instead of in court. These are often for driving offences, but now also cover anti-social behaviour and breaches of the coronavirus lockdown.
Flatten the curve Health experts use a line on a chart to show numbers of new coronavirus cases. If a lot of people get the virus in a short period of time, the line might rise sharply and look a bit like a mountain. However, taking measures to reduce infections can spread cases out over a longer period and means the "curve" is flatter. This makes it easier for health systems to cope.
Flu Short for influenza, a virus that routinely causes disease in humans and animals, in seasonal epidemics.
Furlough Supports firms hit by coronavirus by temporarily helping pay the wages of some staff. It allows employees to remain on the payroll, even though they aren't working.
Herd immunity How the spread of a disease slows after a sufficiently large proportion of a population has been exposed to it.
Immune A person whose body can withstand or fend off a disease is said to be immune to it. Once a person has recovered from the disease caused by the coronavirus, Covid-19, for example, it is thought they cannot catch it again for a certain period of time.
Incubation period The period of time between catching a disease and starting to display symptoms.
Intensive care Hospital wards which treat patients who are very ill. They are run by specially-trained healthcare staff and contain specialist equipment.
Lockdown Restrictions on movement or daily life, where public buildings are closed and people told to stay at home. Lockdowns have been imposed in several countries as part of drastic efforts to control the spread of the coronavirus.
Mitigation phase The third part of the UK's strategy to deal with the coronavirus, which will involve attempts to lessen the impact of a high number of cases on public services. This could mean the NHS halting all non-critical care and police responding to major crimes and emergencies only.
NHS 111 The NHS's 24-hour phone and online service, which offers medical advice to anyone who needs it. People in England and Wales are advised to ring the service if they are worried about their symptoms. In Scotland, they should check NHS inform, then ring their GP in office hours or 111 out of hours. In Northern Ireland, they should call their GP.
Outbreak Multiple cases of a disease occurring rapidly, in a cluster or different locations.
Pandemic An epidemic of serious disease spreading rapidly in many countries simultaneously.
Phase 2 This is when the UK will start to lift some of its lockdown rules while still trying to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
PPE PPE, or personal protective equipment, is clothing and kit such as masks, aprons, gloves and goggles used by medical staff, care workers and others to protect themselves against infection from coronavirus patients and other people who might be carrying the disease.
Quarantine The isolation of people exposed to a contagious disease to prevent its spread.
R0 R0, pronounced "R-naught", is the average number of people who will catch the disease from a single infected person. If the R0 of coronavirus in a particular population is 2, then on average each case will create two more new cases. The value therefore gives an indication of how much the infection could spread.
Recession This happens when there is a significant drop in income, jobs and sales in a country for two consecutive three-month periods.
Sars Severe acute respiratory syndrome, a type of coronavirus that emerged in Asia in 2003.
Self-isolation Staying inside and avoiding all contact with other people, with the aim of preventing the spread of a disease.
Social distancing Keeping away from other people, with the aim of slowing down transmission of a disease. The government advises not seeing friends or relatives other than those you live with, working from home where possible and avoiding public transport.
State of emergency Measures taken by a government to restrict daily life while it deals with a crisis. This can involve closing schools and workplaces, restricting the movement of people and even deploying the armed forces to support the regular emergency services.
Statutory instrument These can be used by government ministers to implement new laws or regulations, or change existing laws. They are an easier alternative to passing a full Act of Parliament.
Symptoms Any sign of disease, triggered by the body's immune system as it attempts to fight off the infection. The main symptoms of the coronavirus are a fever, dry cough and shortness of breath.
Vaccine A treatment that causes the body to produce antibodies, which fight off a disease, and gives immunity against further infection.
Ventilator A machine that takes over breathing for the body when disease has caused the lungs to fail.


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: Yemen medics braced for 'unspeakable' crisis

Yemen 's health system is in a state of collapse - leaving it unlikely to be able to cope with an outbreak of coronavirus .
Dr Shalal Hasel is a hardworking official from the Department of Epidemiological Surveillance in the Yemeni province of Lahj .
Usually his job focuses on dealing with outbreaks of cholera but now he 's working round the clock to make sure Yemen is preparing properly for Covid-19 .
Although - at 30 - he 's young and energetic , he 's already sounding despondent .
`` You 'll know about the deteriorating health situation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Hospitals here are limited and not equipped to receive coronavirus cases . ''
To prove his point , he 's sent me some pictures of doctors in rather flimsy looking aprons and rudimentary masks .
`` We lack adequate PPE ( personal protection equipment ) .
Rapid response teams have received training in Covid-19 case management but they do not possess personal protection .
The WHO [ World Health Organization ] must fill this void . ''
The WHO is helping to equip and staff 37 so-called `` isolation centres '' in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these are existing health facilities that have been re-purposed and others are old buildings turned into makeshift hospitals .
But here too there are other shortages , according to Dr Hasel .
`` We do n't have enough infra-red temperature measuring devices ; there 's a shortage of swabs for diagnosis and even the surveillance teams in the area do not have an ambulance to use for any suspected cases . ''
Figures from the WHO show there are just four labs for the whole country that do coronavirus testing .
A fifth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mohamed Alshamaa from Save The Children is equally apprehensive about what may hit the country 's hospitals - only half of which are operational due to fighting .
`` You can see the fear in the faces of not just the doctors but the management too .
We have some doctors in one or two hospitals who have sent away normal respiratory patients fearing they are coronavirus cases because they do not have the right protective equipment . ''
• Five of the countries most at risk from famine in 2020 • Yemen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Yemen currently has only 208 ventilators ; another 417 are supposed to be on their way .
It 's a long way short of the many thousands being gathered or manufactured by developed countries .
Tamuna Sabadze , from the International Rescue Committee , says the most likely scenario suggests that at least 18,000 intensive care beds will be needed .
`` And even if you get a ventilator you can not run one if you do n't have power - there 's often no generator or , if there is one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' So far Yemen has been lucky - there 's only been a handful of cases .
The first was in the southern province of Hadramawt .
Five more have since been confirmed in Aden , according to the emergency committee set up to oversee the pandemic .
The WHO says all the necessary contact-tracing took place .
A total of 177 people were alerted - including 36 deemed high risk .
But none of the experts expect it to end there .
Aside from the lack of equipment , there 's the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather a lack of it .
With government weakened through war , there are n't the strong preventative messages put out by the authorities as in other countries .
Much of it is cultural , argues Dr Hasel .
`` Yemenis hang around in crowds and our markets - especially the khat [ a popular herbal stimulant ] markets - are full and the streets are narrow .
Even health facilities are crowded with people .
`` All of this hinders the application of social distancing . ''
Then there 's the problem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Yemen has many African immigrants here illegally and they pose a risk to public health if they are not being examined or monitored .
There are also Yemeni expatriates in neighbouring countries who are smuggled back and forth across the border .
They carry risks too .
`` Maybe one of them has coronavirus and then mixes with the general public and no-one knows about it . ''
One of the things Tamuna Sabadze at the International Rescue Committee has been focusing on is the restoration of sanitation facilities and the distribution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all very well to say 'wash your hands ! '
but that 's not easy in Yemen .
Fifty per cent of the population do n't have access to running water . ''
Shortly after we speak bad floods hit Aden which makes the task of providing clean water even harder .
'No-one can go to hospital' Back at the Saana office of Save The Children , Mohammed Alsamaa is worried about the supplies and personnel shut out of the country since Yemen 's airspace closed in mid-March .
Mohammed 's staff are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inadvertently kept out .
He 's also worried about food supplies being disrupted by the shutdown measures .
This is already a country where malnutrition is rife .
Amid the fear of contagion , there was a glimmer of hope in April when a unilateral ceasefire was announced by the Saudi-led coalition fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen .
It 's now been extended for another month but the rebels have still not accepted it and Mohammed tells me that fighting carries on under the surface .
`` There is still tension everywhere .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the conflict stops .
No-one can go to hospital or a clinic if there 's war going on and this outbreak - when it comes - could be unspeakable . ''

"You can see the fear in the faces of not just the doctors but the management too. We have some doctors in one or two hospitals who have sent away normal respiratory patients fearing they are coronavirus cases because they do not have the right protective equipment."


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: Three acts of kindness that won hearts in India

As India reels from the effects of a nationwide lockdown , here are three heartwarming stories of people going the extra mile to help someone out , or cheer them up .
India has been in lockdown since 25 March .
Many people are stuck at home alone , leaving the elderly especially feeling lonely and cut-off from family and friends .
So Karan Puri , an elderly resident of Panchkula , a town in the northern state of Haryana , was in for a pleasant surprise when the police came knocking at his door recently .
In a video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Puri can be seen striding towards the gate , saying , `` I am Karan Puri , I live alone and I am a senior citizen . ''
But what happens next leaves him stumped .
`` Happy birthday to you ! ''
As the police officers sing , Mr Puri doubles over in surprise , asking them how they know .
He says his children are away and he starts to tear up .
The police tell him there is no need to feel lonely because they are like his family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a cake , which Mr Puri then cuts while the officers resume singing .
`` Thank you ! ''
he tells them at one point .
`` You 've made my day . ''
Doctors in India , like elsewhere , are on the front lines fighting the pandemic , and they are often working around the clock .
`` The anxiety and stress levels at work are immense , '' said Kaushik Barua , a 30-year-old critical care resident at a private hospital in the Indian capital , Delhi .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blog , which was inspired by Humans of New York .
`` But through this tough journey , I have had the help of one truly kind soul , '' he said .
His landlord , Rohit Suri , has been cooking him meals every day , so he has a plate of hot food waiting for him when he returns home , exhausted , from work .
The two men have become good friends , as Mr Suri also lives alone .
`` I 'm glad I could capture our moment of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barua of the selfie that has made it to the popular blog .
And , as you can see , they are social distancing in this `` Vitamin D selfie '' , as Mr Barua and Mr Suri refer to it .
Dr Barua says he feels especially lucky and grateful because one of his friends , who is also a doctor , was asked by her landlord to vacate her home .
Several doctors and nurses in India have complained of this , saying landlords and neighbours were afraid of contracting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been a remarkable human being , the kind that the world needs in such times , '' Mr Barua said .
• Coronavirus : Can one woman make kindness catch on in India ?
Not only would Vatsal Sharma have to celebrate his 15th birthday during the lockdown , but he would have to do it without his father around .
He had gone to the US on work , and was n't able to return in time when India suspended all incoming flights .
So Mr Sharma was surprised and touched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him a birthday cake - through the police !
His father wrote to the local police , asking if they could wish his son a happy birthday on his behalf , so they turned up at the house , cake in hand , to do just that .
And Mr Sharma found himself cutting a cake on the bonnet of a police car , while the officers clapped and the happy birthday song blared from the car 's stereo .
In the video tweeted by the police , Mr Sharma said , `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special .
I loved it ! ''

Not only would Vatsal Sharma have to celebrate his 15th birthday during the lockdown, but he would have to do it without his father around. He had gone to the US on work, and wasn't able to return in time when India suspended all incoming flights.


bbc--2020-05-03--North and South Korea in gunfire exchange after Kim Jong-un reappears

North and South Korea have exchanged gunfire in the Demilitarised Zone ( DMZ ) which divides the two countries .
Seoul 's military said shots from the North hit a South Korean guard post in the central border town of Cheorwon .
It said it returned fire and delivered a warning announcement .
There are no reports of injuries .
Such incidents across the world 's most heavily fortified border are rare - the last occurred in 2017 .
It is not clear what led the North to open fire .
Military officials in the South say there was no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are trying to find out if this was an accident or deliberate .
There 's a `` low possibility '' that the shots fired by North Korea were intentional , according to the South Korean military .
But at this stage is unclear how they 've made that assessment .
Even if it was an accident or a miscalculation , it shows just how important it is for troops to keep level heads in the heavily fortified DMZ to ensure the situation is n't made much worse .
If it was a more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a very different matter .
The timing is interesting .
It 's just 24 hours since the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un re-appeared after a 21-day absence .
There have also been a large number of military drills in the North in recent months to improve readiness to fight an `` actual war '' , according to state media .
Pyongyang has sometimes used the tactic of escalate to de-escalate , using its military posturing as leverage in later negotiations .
But any sign of direct fire will be a disappointment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a lot of work in the last two years to ease tensions between the two countries after President Moon Jae-in met Kim Jong-un .
The two sides signed a military agreement - any deliberate shots fired would breach that pact .
The last time the North opened fire on the South happened in 2017 when a North Korean soldier made a dash across the military demarcation line to defect .
The demilitarised zone ( DMZ ) was set up after the Korean War in 1953 in order to create a buffer zone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past two years , the government in Seoul has tried to turn the heavily fortified border into a peace zone .
Easing military tensions at the border was one of the agreements reached between the leaders of the two countries at a summit in Pyongyang in September 2018 .
Kim Jong-un 's reappearance in public , reported by North Korean state media on Friday , followed an almost-three-week unexplained absence that sparked intense global speculation about his health .

But any sign of direct fire will be a disappointment to many in South Korea. There has been a lot of work in the last two years to ease tensions between the two countries after President Moon Jae-in met Kim Jong-un. The two sides signed a military agreement - any deliberate shots fired would breach that pact.


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: Johnson reveals 'contingency plans' made during treatment

Boris Johnson has revealed `` contingency plans '' were made while he was seriously ill in hospital with coronavirus .
In an interview with the Sun on Sunday , the PM says he was given `` litres and litres of oxygen '' to keep him alive .
He says his week in London 's St Thomas ' Hospital left him driven by a desire to both stop others suffering and to get the UK `` back on its feet '' .
Earlier , his fiancee , Carrie Symonds , revealed they had named their baby boy Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their grandfathers and two doctors who treated Mr Johnson while he was in hospital with coronavirus , Ms Symonds wrote in an Instagram post .
The boy was born on Wednesday , just weeks after Mr Johnson 's discharge from intensive care .
In his newspaper interview , the prime minister describes being wired up to monitors and finding the `` indicators kept going in the wrong direction '' .
`` It was a tough old moment , I wo n't deny it , '' he 's quoted as saying , adding that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am I going to get out of this ? ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
Mr Johnson had been diagnosed with coronavirus on March 26 and was admitted to hospital 10 days later .
The following day , he was moved to intensive care .
`` It was hard to believe that in just a few days my health had deteriorated to this extent , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong . ''
His recovery , he says , was down to `` wonderful , wonderful nursing '' .
Mr Johnson says he felt `` lucky '' , given so many others were still suffering , adding : `` And so if you ask me , 'Am I driven by a desire to stop other people suffering ? '
Yes , I absolutely am .
`` But I am also driven by an overwhelming desire to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on its feet , healthy again , going forward in a way that we can and I 'm very confident we 'll get there . ''
The total number of reported coronavirus-related deaths in the UK now stands at 28,131 - an increase of 621 on Friday 's figure .
However , England 's deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said the number of people being treated in hospitals for the virus had fallen by 13 % over the past week .
On Saturday , the government pledged £76m to support vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ modern slavery , who were `` trapped '' at home during the lockdown .
The announcement followed reports of a `` surge '' in violence in the weeks since the lockdown was introduced .
Mr Johnson has been back in charge of the government since last Sunday .
But he was in Downing Street a matter of days before Ms Symonds gave birth .
When posting their newborn 's photograph on Instagram , she said his second middle name , Nicholas , was a tribute to `` Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris ' life '' .
This offered `` an insight into just how serious things were for the prime minister '' after contracting the virus , said BBC political correspondent Jonathan Blake .
Dr Nick Price and Prof Nick Hart offered their `` warm congratulations '' to the PM and Ms Symonds .
They said in a statement : `` We are honoured and humbled to have been recognised in this way , and we give our thanks to the incredible team of professionals who we work with at Guy 's and St @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receives the best care .
`` We wish the new family every health and happiness . ''
• Spain has announced that masks will be compulsory on public transport from Monday .
Eurostar is also asking its passengers to cover their faces • A study has identified five rashes - including chilblain-like marks labelled `` Covid toe '' - affecting some coronavirus patients • The British Chambers of Commerce has called on ministers to set out plans for a `` carefully phased '' lifting of lockdown conditions • Former Army head General Lord @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff General Lord David Richards have called for front-line NHS workers to be given cash bonuses

They said in a statement: "We are honoured and humbled to have been recognised in this way, and we give our thanks to the incredible team of professionals who we work with at Guy's and St Thomas' and who ensure every patient receives the best care.