bbc--2020-05-03--How Beaumont's re-election as World Rugby chairman split opinion

Sir Bill Beaumont 's re-election as the chairman of World Rugby has split opinion in the rugby union world .
On the one hand , there is a faith in the former England captain 's steadiness and experience in turbulent times ; on the other , a lament that the energy and vision of Agustin Pichot was unable to shake up the establishment .
But Beaumont is no fool .
At the age of 68 , he would n't have stood for re-election if he did n't think he had enough support to get over the line and , significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now he would be leaving a job half done and a legacy incomplete .
Far from looking to restore the status quo , Beaumont 's manifesto is a bold one , pledging to reach new territories , revolutionise the calendar , and make rugby union a sport for all .
On Sunday , Beaumont used his first press conference since re-election to reiterate he is a `` good listener '' who `` brings people together '' .
Those qualities will be put to the test now , with major issues to address in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As Beaumont himself acknowledges , the hard work starts here .
World Rugby last month announced an £80m fund to help beleaguered rugby nations through the current crisis .
Australia , a once-mighty superpower of the global game , and the USA , a possible-future superpower of the global game , are both in dire straits , while all around the world unions and clubs are forecasting financial doom .
Even the RFU - hitherto the envy of unions worldwide - are forecasting huge revenue losses , which will only be exacerbated if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Furthermore , the Six Nations ' plan to sell a stake in the Championship to private equity giants CVC is said to be on hold , as is the latest broadcasting deal .
Suddenly , no one body holds total sway over the rest , and Beaumont hopes that from the rubble will emerge a new spirit of collaboration and co-operation .
`` What this pandemic has shown , is that we all rely on each other , '' he said shortly after his re-election .
`` We are at a crossroads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from both the north and south to re-unite our game . ''
In the spring of 2017 , the movers and shakers of the world game met in San Francisco to thrash out plans for a new global calendar .
But the tweaks - while a nudge in the right direction - were largely cosmetic , and three years on the same problems remain over the sport 's fractured schedule .
In 2019 , plans for a revolutionary Nations Championship were published .
It involved the Six Nations and Rugby Championship continuing as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a league , with cross-hemisphere matches making up the rest of the competition before a showpiece final at the end of the year .
Japan and Fiji would both join the Rugby Championship , a major breakthrough for those nations .
The cash-strapped southern hemisphere countries were squarely behind it , sensing a financial lifeline , but the Six Nations unions were reticent , especially when the issue of promotion and relegation was thrust upon them .
Failing to deliver it was one of Beaumont 's main regrets in his first term , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Championship is firmly back in the pipeline - with renewed Six Nations support .
`` There is a real feeling I get now that there will be some variant of the Nations Championship that will come back on the table , '' he told the BBC last month .
To achieve this , the current international windows in the summer and autumn would be moved , quite possibly to run alongside each other , although Beaumont has played down the prospect of the Six Nations shifting from its traditional February and March slot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is bringing the club game into the conversation , especially the independently-run English and French leagues .
While the clubs still contract and provide international players , they remain a crucial cog in the machine , and Beaumont ignores them at his peril - so too , the players themselves .
`` I will make certain the players are right at the heart of decision-making , '' he insists .
`` Our aim is to have a more representative and diverse international federation that better serves the game , not one that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' , '' said Beaumont in his manifesto published earlier this year .
This area will be vital to his legacy come the end of his tenure in 2024 .
As a former England and Lions captain , RFU Chairman and Lions manager , Beaumont needs to shake off accusations - especially south of the equator - that he will only end up protecting the sport 's traditional heartlands .
He is certainly pledging otherwise , and has spoken about his desire to introduce viable and vibrant competitions to improve rugby union 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he says he wants to drop that tag altogether .
More detailed plans emerged via the Sunday Times of a series of tournaments below the Six Nations and Rugby Championship - and Beaumont told the BBC at the recent Rugby World Cup that improving the level of competition outside the elite was a major priority .
A financially sustainable and high-quality competition for emerging nations would have a two-fold effect : the aim would be to improve the standards of the less-established countries , and would convince the Six Nations that relegation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We intend to raise the standard globally , '' Beaumont says .
If the Nations Championship only ran twice in every four-year cycle - and did n't take place in Lions years or Rugby World Cup years - there may then be opportunities for cross-over matches between 'Tier One ' and 'Tier Two ' teams .
These fixtures could see a more equitable revenue-sharing model - currently the host union keeps 100 % of the takings , a source of widespread consternation - although Beaumont says this is an issue for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Other growth areas - the women 's game and 7s Both candidates made growing the women 's game a key part of their manifestos , and Beaumont says plans are afoot on this front .
`` We have already got a few ideas in the pipeline , looking at a global women 's competition with promotion and relegation , '' he explained .
Meanwhile he says the Sevens game is an `` incredible tool '' for taking the sport into new territories .
`` Teams like Kenya have won tournaments , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game-changer ; it brought rugby to the forefront , '' he added .
`` Asia for example is a massive untapped market we need to take advantage of . ''
But this is all easier said than done , with widespread fears that women 's sport for example will suffer in light of the financial constraints post-coronavirus .
`` I 'm challenging the World Rugby Executive , and saying we have to find the money for these competitions , '' Beaumont insists .
`` Women 's rugby is part of our long-term plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Beaumont is perhaps fortunate to have another four years in the role , given the slow pace of change during his first term .
When he leaves World Rugby in 2024 , will it be as the man who has guided the sport into a new and prosperous era ?
Or will the same issues - squabbling stakeholders , vested interests , the constant conundrum between making money and player welfare , a sport torn between physicality and safety - still remain ?
He will often find himself in a difficult , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of World Rugby is only as influential as the various stakeholders allow , but Beaumont is confident he has the engaging and authoritative touch required to effect real change .
`` I like to think throughout all my rugby administration I have been able to reach consensus , and I 've got four years to make a difference by the power of persuasion , '' he says .
Having now secured re-election , Beaumont 's legacy and reputation as an administrator is firmly on the line .

Sir Bill Beaumont was re-elected World Rugby chairman on Saturday
Sir Bill Beaumont's re-election as the chairman of World Rugby has split opinion in the rugby union world.
On the one hand, there is a faith in the former England captain's steadiness and experience in turbulent times; on the other, a lament that the energy and vision of Agustin Pichot was unable to shake up the establishment.
But Beaumont is no fool. At the age of 68, he wouldn't have stood for re-election if he didn't think he had enough support to get over the line and, significantly, he knows if he stood down now he would be leaving a job half done and a legacy incomplete.
Far from looking to restore the status quo, Beaumont's manifesto is a bold one, pledging to reach new territories, revolutionise the calendar, and make rugby union a sport for all.
On Sunday, Beaumont used his first press conference since re-election to reiterate he is a "good listener" who "brings people together".
Those qualities will be put to the test now, with major issues to address in the short, medium and long-term.
As Beaumont himself acknowledges, the hard work starts here.
Surviving the Covid crisis
World Rugby last month announced an £80m fund to help beleaguered rugby nations through the current crisis.
Australia, a once-mighty superpower of the global game, and the USA, a possible-future superpower of the global game, are both in dire straits, while all around the world unions and clubs are forecasting financial doom.
Even the RFU - hitherto the envy of unions worldwide - are forecasting huge revenue losses, which will only be exacerbated if the November internationals don't go ahead. Furthermore, the Six Nations' plan to sell a stake in the Championship to private equity giants CVC is said to be on hold, as is the latest broadcasting deal.
Suddenly, no one body holds total sway over the rest, and Beaumont hopes that from the rubble will emerge a new spirit of collaboration and co-operation.
"What this pandemic has shown, is that we all rely on each other," he said shortly after his re-election.
"We are at a crossroads, and there is a real desire from both the north and south to re-unite our game."
Shaking up the rugby calendar
In the spring of 2017, the movers and shakers of the world game met in San Francisco to thrash out plans for a new global calendar. But the tweaks - while a nudge in the right direction - were largely cosmetic, and three years on the same problems remain over the sport's fractured schedule.
In 2019, plans for a revolutionary Nations Championship were published. It involved the Six Nations and Rugby Championship continuing as normal, but the results counting towards a league, with cross-hemisphere matches making up the rest of the competition before a showpiece final at the end of the year. Japan and Fiji would both join the Rugby Championship, a major breakthrough for those nations.
The cash-strapped southern hemisphere countries were squarely behind it, sensing a financial lifeline, but the Six Nations unions were reticent, especially when the issue of promotion and relegation was thrust upon them.
Failing to deliver it was one of Beaumont's main regrets in his first term, but he now feels a revised Nations Championship is firmly back in the pipeline - with renewed Six Nations support.
"There is a real feeling I get now that there will be some variant of the Nations Championship that will come back on the table," he told the BBC last month.
To achieve this, the current international windows in the summer and autumn would be moved, quite possibly to run alongside each other, although Beaumont has played down the prospect of the Six Nations shifting from its traditional February and March slot.
However, key to all this is bringing the club game into the conversation, especially the independently-run English and French leagues.
While the clubs still contract and provide international players, they remain a crucial cog in the machine, and Beaumont ignores them at his peril - so too, the players themselves.
"I will make certain the players are right at the heart of decision-making," he insists.
Improving new territories and emerging nations
"Our aim is to have a more representative and diverse international federation that better serves the game, not one that is seen to only support the 'old guard'," said Beaumont in his manifesto published earlier this year.
This area will be vital to his legacy come the end of his tenure in 2024. As a former England and Lions captain, RFU Chairman and Lions manager, Beaumont needs to shake off accusations - especially south of the equator - that he will only end up protecting the sport's traditional heartlands.
He is certainly pledging otherwise, and has spoken about his desire to introduce viable and vibrant competitions to improve rugby union's 'Tier Two' countries; in fact, he says he wants to drop that tag altogether.
More detailed plans emerged via the Sunday Times of a series of tournaments below the Six Nations and Rugby Championship - and Beaumont told the BBC at the recent Rugby World Cup that improving the level of competition outside the elite was a major priority.
A financially sustainable and high-quality competition for emerging nations would have a two-fold effect: the aim would be to improve the standards of the less-established countries, and would convince the Six Nations that relegation would not be a doomsday scenario.
"We intend to raise the standard globally," Beaumont says.
If the Nations Championship only ran twice in every four-year cycle - and didn't take place in Lions years or Rugby World Cup years - there may then be opportunities for cross-over matches between 'Tier One' and 'Tier Two' teams.
These fixtures could see a more equitable revenue-sharing model - currently the host union keeps 100% of the takings, a source of widespread consternation - although Beaumont says this is an issue for the individual unions, rather than World Rugby.
Other growth areas - the women's game and 7s
Both candidates made growing the women's game a key part of their manifestos, and Beaumont says plans are afoot on this front.
"We have already got a few ideas in the pipeline, looking at a global women's competition with promotion and relegation," he explained.
Meanwhile he says the Sevens game is an "incredible tool" for taking the sport into new territories.
"Teams like Kenya have won tournaments, and the Olympics in Rio was a massive game-changer; it brought rugby to the forefront," he added. "Asia for example is a massive untapped market we need to take advantage of."
But this is all easier said than done, with widespread fears that women's sport for example will suffer in light of the financial constraints post-coronavirus.
"I'm challenging the World Rugby Executive, and saying we have to find the money for these competitions," Beaumont insists.
"Women's rugby is part of our long-term plan and we have made a commitment."
Legacy on the line
Beaumont is perhaps fortunate to have another four years in the role, given the slow pace of change during his first term.
When he leaves World Rugby in 2024, will it be as the man who has guided the sport into a new and prosperous era?
Or will the same issues - squabbling stakeholders, vested interests, the constant conundrum between making money and player welfare, a sport torn between physicality and safety - still remain?
He will often find himself in a difficult, even helpless, position; the chairman of World Rugby is only as influential as the various stakeholders allow, but Beaumont is confident he has the engaging and authoritative touch required to effect real change.
"I like to think throughout all my rugby administration I have been able to reach consensus, and I've got four years to make a difference by the power of persuasion," he says.
Having now secured re-election, Beaumont's legacy and reputation as an administrator is firmly on the line.


bbc--2020-05-03--Two poles and two huge crashes - Vandoorne makes history. Sort of

If it was real life , he would have made some sort of dubious motorsport history - but it is , or course , part of the madness that is the new normal of esports sim racing .
Vandoorne 's huge connection with the wall on Saturday during Formula E 's Race At Home Challenge left him pretty much intact and able to finish fifth .
Yes , the esports series - available to watch every Saturday afternoon on BBC iPlayer , Red Button and the BBC Sport website - is supposed to have cars which sustain 80 % of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life in the event of an impact .
But Vandoorne 's car purred along throughout this race , set in an undetermined container depot port location , after piling into the wall .
BMW iAndretti 's Max Gunther won the race - the second round out of nine - his third win in a row if you count the series ' test race .
In Formula 1 's official esports series on Sunday night , Belgian ex-McLaren F1 man Vandoorne will have been relieved to know drivers do not sustain any damage , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another enormous shunt by getting the F1 Mercedes sideways off the line and into the wall .
In normal circumstances he would have had a short walk back to the pits after - hopefully - walking away from a pile of carbon fibre .
But , of course , he carried on to finish fourth at Interlagos , Sao Paulo , where fans had previously voted to race .
Without coronavirus , 'real ' Formula 1 would have visited Holland this weekend for the Dutch Grand Prix - but games programmers have n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the esports world .
One major beneficiary from Vandoorne 's madness was Red Bull 's Alex Albon , driving the car he usually does , steaming into the lead after Vandoorne 's crash .
He then had an epic race-long battle with Ferrari 's Charles Leclerc - who was looking to win what felt like his 15,000th race since the lockdown began .
The pair swapped the lead nine times across 36 laps before Albon eventually held off the Ferrari driver - who finished third after a penalty - after he had already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Not The GP Series Reverse Grid race following a penalty .
The interestingly titled regular esports racer TRL Limitless won .
Golfer Ian Poulter made a return to racing in the Reverse Grid race after crashing while being interviewed in the last official F1 esports race in 'China ' .
He finished a respectable 11th after following Real Madrid 's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois home after the pair fell to the back of the order early on - so something to build on against the professional drivers .

Lando Norris had an interesting weekend's racing
Stoffel Vandoorne is fast - too fast.
In one weekend the Mercedes Formula E driver managed to qualify on pole position on Saturday and Sunday in two different races. And upon starting said races, he crashed spectacularly within a few yards of the green lights.
If it was real life, he would have made some sort of dubious motorsport history - but it is, or course, part of the madness that is the new normal of esports sim racing.
Vandoorne's huge connection with the wall on Saturday during Formula E's Race At Home Challenge left him pretty much intact and able to finish fifth.
Yes, the esports series - available to watch every Saturday afternoon on BBC iPlayer, Red Button and the BBC Sport website - is supposed to have cars which sustain 80% of the damage they would do in real life in the event of an impact. But Vandoorne's car purred along throughout this race, set in an undetermined container depot port location, after piling into the wall.
Highlights: Max Gunther wins action-packed second Formula E Race At Home Challenge
BMW iAndretti's Max Gunther won the race - the second round out of nine - his third win in a row if you count the series' test race.
On to Brazil
In Formula 1's official esports series on Sunday night, Belgian ex-McLaren F1 man Vandoorne will have been relieved to know drivers do not sustain any damage, after he was somehow involved in yet another enormous shunt which caused the F1 Mercedes to go sideways off the line and into the wall.
In normal circumstances he would have had a short walk back to the pits after - hopefully - walking away from a pile of carbon fibre. But, of course, he carried on to finish fourth at Interlagos, Sao Paulo, where fans had previously voted to race.
Without coronavirus, 'real' Formula 1 would have visited Holland this weekend for the Dutch Grand Prix - but games programmers haven't yet developed the re-constructed Zandvoort circuit in the esports world.
One major beneficiary from Vandoorne's madness was Red Bull's Alex Albon, driving the car he usually does, steaming into the lead after Vandoorne's crash.
He then had an epic race-long battle with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc - who was looking to win what felt like his 15,000th race since the lockdown began.
The pair swapped the lead nine times across 36 laps before Albon eventually held off the Ferrari driver - who finished third after a penalty - after he had already lost out on Saturday in Veloce's Not The GP Series Reverse Grid race following a penalty. The interestingly titled regular esports racer TRL Limitless won.
Battles of the celebs
Golfer Ian Poulter made a return to racing in the Reverse Grid race after crashing while being interviewed in the last official F1 esports race in 'China'.
He finished a respectable 11th after following Real Madrid's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois home after the pair fell to the back of the order early on - so something to build on against the professional drivers.
But Sports Personality of the Year winner and top all-round cricketer Ben Stokes claimed bragging rights against former England batsman Stuart Broad.
"I'm sweating, but it looks like I'll have to pull [Broads] pants back up after this," said Stokes before nearly crashing during his mid-race interview, al a Poulter.
Stokes finished in 13th, four places ahead of Broad, and just three behind McLaren's Lando Norris who had a bit of an off day - quite possibly because of his huge IndyCar shunt the previous day.
Still, not huge enough to take the somewhat unwanted attention away from poor old Vandoorne.


bbc--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Air passengers told to wear face masks

Some major airlines are now requiring passengers to wear face masks on flights to limit the spread of viruses .
Many big US airlines are bringing in new health and safety policies for both passengers and cabin crew this week .
Other carriers around the world are also making mask wearing mandatory for when they restart flights .
While around 90 % of international flights have been cancelled , airlines hope to gradually resume air travel starting this month .
From Monday , US carrier Delta said it requires passengers to wear a mask or other face covering in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gate areas and onboard planes for the whole flight .
American Airlines and United have also said that they will start requiring masks for passengers , along with cabin crew .
The carriers say these are temporary measures as they slowly resume flights .
• How will airlines get flying again ?
• BA may not reopen at Gatwick once pandemic passes “ We are looking out for our customers ’ well-being to give them peace of mind while they travel with us , ” said Kurt Stache , a spokesman for American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly on these enhancements and we ’ ll continue to improve the travel experience for our customers and team members as we navigate these times together.
” “ Face coverings will be mandatory for all passengers , and ( we ) will provide masks to passengers for free , ” said Maddie King , a spokeswoman for United Airlines .
But not all airlines are making passengers wear face masks .
Qantas said there “ are no requirements in Australia to wear masks .
No decisions have been made by the Government or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place for travel once restrictions are lifted.
” The Australian national carrier said on its website : “ While the risk of contracting coronavirus on board an aircraft is regarded as low , social distancing has been put in place across all flights.
” It is currently following guidelines from Australia 's chief medical officer .
When it comes to a global policy for airlines to follow , there are a number of bodies that could offer guidance including the International Air Transport Association .
( IATA ) .
`` The use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures proposed in an industry roadmap for the restart of flights that we are discussing with industry stakeholders and governments , '' said an IATA spokesman .
Airlines are bringing in a range of safety measures onboard to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus .
It 's unclear if these will be temporary measures or more long term .
Major pre-flight cleaning measures to disinfect heavily used areas are being widely used along with reducing the number of people on each flight .
Passengers are also being encouraged to pack their own @ @ @ @ @ @ @

When it comes to a global policy for airlines to follow, there are a number of bodies that could offer guidance including the International Air Transport Association. (IATA). "The use of face covering inflight is among the measures proposed in an industry roadmap for the restart of flights that we are discussing with industry stakeholders and governments," said an IATA spokesman.


bbc--2020-05-04--President warns of 100,000 coronavirus deaths in US

US President Donald Trump has warned that as many as 100,000 people could die of coronavirus in the US .
Speaking at a two-hour virtual `` town hall '' , Mr Trump also denied that his administration had acted too slowly .
More than 67,000 people have already died with Covid-19 in the US .
But Mr Trump expressed optimism about the development of a vaccine , suggesting one could be ready by the end of this year - although experts believe it will take 12 to 18 months .
`` I think we 're going to have a vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he told Fox News .
`` The doctors would say , well you should n't say that .
I 'll say what I think ...
I think we 'll a vaccine sooner rather than later . ''
Among the experts to disagree with this optimistic estimate are Dr Anthony Fauci , America 's top infectious disease expert , and England 's Chief Medical Officer , Chris Whitty .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • VACCINE : How close are we to finding one ?
Dr Fauci has previously said a vaccine will take up to 18 months to develop , while Professor Whitty said last month the chances of having an effective vaccine or other treatment within the next year were `` incredibly small '' .
The town hall - or community meeting featuring viewers ' questions - was intended to relaunch Mr Trump 's presidential campaign in lieu of rallies .
President Trump also rejected claims that his administration had failed to act quickly enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying : `` We did the right thing . ''
Instead , he again accused China for failing to stop the virus spreading : `` I think they made a horrible mistake , and they did n't want to admit it .
We wanted to go in .
They did n't want us there . ''
Mr Trump also laid some of the blame at the door of US intelligence officials , accusing them of failing to raise concerns about the outbreak until 23 January .
However , US broadcasters CNN and ABC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mentioned the coronavirus as early as 3 January .

"I think we're going to have a vaccine by the end of the year," he told Fox News. "The doctors would say, well you shouldn't say that. I'll say what I think... I think we'll a vaccine sooner rather than later."


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: Naples feels the cost of Italy's lockdown

Italians sing together from their windows People living in Italy , who have been told to stay in their homes @ @ @ @ @ of the coronavirus , have come up with a unique way to cheer each other @ @

As Italy begins to ease its lockdown measures, residents in some of Naples' poorest neighbourhoods share their stories of how the global pandemic has left scars on their city.
Takeaways and parks are reopening, small funerals can resume and some businesses are restarting.
But the shutdown has left deep wounds in a country with already serious economic problems.
Mark Lowen has been speaking to people whose lives have been changed.
Camera: Francesco Tosto
Producers: Gillian Hazell and Julian Miglierini


bbc--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: World must 'pull together' to find and fund vaccine

European leaders have pledged support for a plan to raise €7.5bn ( £6.6bn ; $ 8.3bn ) to find a coronavirus vaccine in a jointly signed open letter .
The Brussels-led initiative was set out by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday .
The promises come ahead of an online pledging conference on Monday .
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will urge countries to `` pull together '' to meet `` the most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes '' .
Mr Johnson , who spent three nights in intensive care with Covid-19 , will also confirm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine research , testing and treatment .
The conference will be co-hosted by the UK , Canada , France , Germany , Italy , Japan , Norway , Saudi Arabia and the European Commission .
The UN says a return to normal life will only be possible with a vaccine .
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte , French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel are also among those who have signed up to the initiative .
In the open letter published in weekend newspapers , the leaders said that the funds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ co-operation between scientists and regulators , industry and governments , international organisations , foundations and healthcare professionals '' .
`` If we can develop a vaccine that is produced by the world , for the whole world , this will be a unique global public good of the 21st Century , '' they added .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• VACCINE : How close are we to finding one ?
• TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
At the same time , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Organization in the face of US criticism of its handling of the outbreak .
Dozens of research projects trying to find a vaccine are currently under way across the world .

"If we can develop a vaccine that is produced by the world, for the whole world, this will be a unique global public good of the 21st Century," they added.


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: UK hospital trials new treatment drug

A new drug developed by UK scientists to treat Covid-19 patients is being trialled at University Hospital Southampton .
Developed by UK bio-tech company Synairgen , it uses a protein called interferon beta , which our bodies produce when we get a viral infection .
Initial results from the trial are expected by the end of June .
There are currently few effective treatments for coronavirus with doctors relying on patients ' immune systems .
What is the new drug ?
Interferon beta is part of the body 's first line of defence against viruses , warning it to expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chief executive of Southampton-based Synairgen .
He says the coronavirus seems to suppress its production as part of its strategy to evade our immune systems .
The drug is a special formulation of interferon beta delivered directly to the airways when the virus is there , with the hope that a direct dose of the protein will trigger a stronger anti-viral response even in patients whose immune systems are already weak .
• When will we have a drug to combat coronavirus ?
• How long does it take to recover ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the body Interferon beta is commonly used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis .
Synairgen has already shown its preparation can stimulate the immune response in the lungs of patients with asthma and other chronic lung conditions .
But we can only know whether it works for Covid-19 patients after it has been through a rigorous clinical trial .
Kaye Flitney is one of 75 people who have been enrolled in the clinical trial , filmed exclusively by BBC Panorama .
It requires Covid-19 patients , like her , to inhale the drug @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the lungs .
Kaye , 67 , struggles to sit up in her hospital bed and coughs as she puts the dispenser to her lips .
She says when she first found out she had coronavirus her first thought was not for her own health .
`` I was frightened because my husband has heart failure .
It would kill him . ''
The 67-year-old , who was taken to hospital due to difficulty with her breathing , said taking the drug has n't caused her much discomfort .
`` You do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you 're finished .
It 's not so bad .
I could see myself taking it at home . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
How does the trial work ?
The 75 volunteers involved so far have been recruited from some 10 hospitals around Britain .
Half get the drug , half get what is known as a placebo - an inactive substance .
No-one involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been given which treatment until the trial is over .
`` If you know it 's a drug , your mind might have a bias , '' explains Sandy Aitken , the nurse administering the drug .
The hope is , it will show the patients getting the drug do much better than those that do n't , says Professor Tom Wilkinson , of the University of Southampton .
Synairgen 's drug trial is the template for a new fast-track clinical scheme that has just been set up by the government .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is designed to accelerate the development of new drugs for patients with Covid-19 .
The first phase of the programme involves six other drugs .
More than 100 treatments are being explored worldwide and a drug called remdesivir , which was developed as an Ebola treatment , has generated particular excitement .
US officials have claimed there is `` clear-cut '' evidence it helps people recover from the coronavirus .
How far away could the UK treatment be ?
Initial results from the interferon beta trial are expected by the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does show promise , it will face further scrutiny before it can be used routinely on patients .
That could take months , although the government has said it will work as fast as possible .
If deemed effective , the drug and the nebulisers used to deliver it would then need to be manufactured in huge quantities .
Mr Marsden says he is already talking to suppliers around the world about whether it will be possible to start producing the drug as soon as the clinical trial is over .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ widely available until the end the year .
You can watch Panorama : When Will We Be Safe ?
at 19:30 BST on Monday , on BBC One and on the BBC iPlayer .

Kaye, 67, struggles to sit up in her hospital bed and coughs as she puts the dispenser to her lips. She says when she first found out she had coronavirus her first thought was not for her own health.


bbc--2020-05-04--Man, dog and five camels rescued after steep fall

A man , a dog and five camels have been rescued by police after they fell down a steep slope during a walk in the Australian bush .
The 38-year-old man and his party were on a track near the town of Jamieson in Victoria when one of the camels lost its footing .
Because they were tied together , the whole pack and the man were pulled down , authorities told the BBC .
No one was seriously injured but the rescue spanned nearly four hours .
`` Basically - chap was out with his camels .
One fell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's led to the whole ship going down , '' said Country Fire Authority district commander Paul Horton .
He said police were notified around 15:00 on Sunday local time ( 05:00 GMT ) , after the man , who was a visitor to the area , activated his emergency radio beacon - which was registered to a server 15,000 km ( 9,300 miles ) away in the United States .
• Prickles the sheep found after seven years isolation This then bounced to authorities in Canberra - Australia 's capital city- who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Horton told the BBC : `` Police sent a helicopter to investigate ... they just assumed it was going to be one person , perhaps a winch rescue , and everyone would be fine .
`` Of course they get on scene and there 's definitely more than one person involved . ''
With a vet on standby , backup responders were then called to the scene where they managed to slowly `` coax '' the animals back up the embankment .
As one of the animals appeared to be injured , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sling to `` manoeuvre the beast back onto the track '' .
`` But it managed to scramble its way back up there , and be re-united with its mates , '' Mr Horton said .
`` And they were all safely walked back to a safe place to stay last night .
Long story short - we 're just glad it ended well , '' he said .
Jamieson , a small rural town 200km north-east of Melbourne , is mainly an agricultural area nestled beneath the Great Dividing Range mountains .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the region although some farms use the animals for milk and cheese products .
Victoria Police said their investigation into the `` exact circumstances '' of the incident remained ongoing .

He said police were notified around 15:00 on Sunday local time (05:00 GMT), after the man, who was a visitor to the area, activated his emergency radio beacon - which was registered to a server 15,000 km (9,300 miles) away in the United States.


bbc--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Theft suspects tried in France over fake police checks

Four alleged fraudsters are being tried in France , accused of conducting fake police checks on people 's permits to leave home during the lockdown .
The woman and three men allegedly posed as officers and robbed victims after asking them to produce the official form people must carry away from home .
It is believed they stole €25,000 ( £22,000 ; $ 27,000 ) .
The four , who are all Iranian nationals , are being tried as France prepares to ease its lockdown curbs .
• How countries are emerging from lockdown Since 17 March , people across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave their homes to go to work , shop , exercise , seek care or conduct urgent family business .
While out , they are required to carry a certificate stating the reason for their trip .
Police say the gang impersonated officers and approached people wearing face masks .
After asking to see their victims ' forms , they allegedly searched bags and took whatever cash or valuables they could find .
In an interview with France Info radio , Police Commissioner Nathan Bauer said the suspects `` did not speak very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added that police had identified seven victims , and that €12,000 had been stolen from one of them .
The four are to be tried in the city of Meaux , east of Paris .
The coronavirus outbreak has been linked to about 25,000 deaths in France .
But with falling numbers of new fatalities and cases , the government has announced plans to lift some restrictions from 11 May .
• New lows for deaths in France , Spain and Italy

The coronavirus outbreak has been linked to about 25,000 deaths in France. But with falling numbers of new fatalities and cases, the government has announced plans to lift some restrictions from 11 May.


bbc--2020-05-04--Retailer J Crew files for bankruptcy protection

Fashion firm J Crew has filed for bankruptcy protection , making it the first big US retailer to fall victim to the coronavirus pandemic .
Under the terms of the filing , its main creditors are set to take control of the group in exchange for cancelling debts of $ 1.65bn ( £1.3bn ) .
They are also providing about $ 400m of fresh financing to keep J Crew 's operations afloat .
Its 500 stores have been closed by the pandemic and some will not reopen .
However , the firm has not yet disclosed how many outlets will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now pass into the hands of Anchorage Capital Group , GSO Capital Partners and Davidson Kempner Capital Management , which hold large amounts of its debt .
As well as J Crew , the group also owns denim clothing specialist Madewell , which it had planned to spin off as a separate entity before the outbreak of the virus .
J Crew chief executive Jan Singer described the move as a `` comprehensive financial restructuring '' aimed at allowing the business `` to thrive for years to come '' .
`` Throughout this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our customers with the exceptional merchandise and service they expect from us , and we will continue all day-to-day operations , albeit under these extraordinary Covid-19-related circumstances , '' she added .
Kevin Ulrich , chief executive of Anchorage Capital Group , said : `` J Crew and Madewell are two classic American brands with deeply loyal customers .
`` The significant deleveraging contemplated by this agreement , coupled with J Crew Group 's strategy to strengthen its robust e-commerce platform to drive continued growth in its direct-to-consumer segment , will position the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before the advent of coronavirus , big retailers were suffering in the US , with the rise of online shopping and the decline of shopping malls taking their toll .
Department store chains including Sears and JC Penney - long seen as bellwethers of US retail - have been struggling to survive in recent years , with clothing sales falling particularly sharply .
Sears had 700 stores across the US when it filed for bankruptcy protection in 2018 .
Although it survived , it now has fewer than 200 outlets .
JC Penney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It used to have more than 1,000 locations , but now has about 850 .

He said that although the restructuring would give the firm breathing space, it had to address the perception of many shoppers that its clothes were "both boring and bad value for money".


bbc--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Firms rush to secure new lockdown survival loans

Businesses have raced to secure loans under a new scheme to help smaller firms through the lockdown crisis .
The Bounce Back Loans scheme went live on Monday , with Barclays seeing 200 applications in the first minute and Lloyds 5,000 within three hours .
It offers loans up to £50,000 and is designed to be simpler and quicker than the existing Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme ( CBILS ) .
Barclays said its first bounce back loans will be awarded within 24 hours .
CBILS offer loans of up to £5m and are available for companies with a turnover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the loans have come in for criticism by some businesses , especially smaller ones .
Banks can often apply their usual lending criteria , which makes it harder for smaller enterprises to qualify while locked down .
On Thursday , the number of CBILS loans agreed was 8,638 , down from more than 9,000 the previous week .
Of 52,807 loans applied for , almost 28,000 have still to be approved .
Banks have been criticised for delays in handing out loans but have blamed the heavy workload , the need to complete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of staff .
The government insists the new bounce back loans will be easier to apply for .
However , UK Finance , which represents banks , emphasised that firms should `` think very carefully before taking on new debt '' .
While the loans are aimed at smaller businesses and sole traders , with £2,000 to £50,000 on offer , there is no limit on the size of business that can apply .
To qualify , a firm must have been trading on 1 March this year and not have been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the loans are not intended to bail out failing businesses .
While these are early days , business leaders have been generally positive about the bounce-back scheme .
It `` offers real hope '' for small firms , says Mike Cherry , head of the Federation of Small Businesses .
When will the money be available ?
Businesses should apply through the bank with which they have a business account .
The Treasury says funds should then be available `` within days '' .
Borrowers answer seven questions on an online form including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bank account and how the lockdown and Covid-19 has impacted your business .
Applicants do not have to provide security and personal guarantees .
Fifty banks have been accredited to provide the loans - the same ones that provide CBILS .
However , the expectation is that because of the simplicity of the process , banks will transfer the money far quicker than CBIL loans .
Despite the stress , Rachel Sweet is staying positive The lockdown hit just as Rachel Sweet 's one-year-old business was entering its busiest trading period .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loans could prove a lifeline , she says , and her application is going in straight away .
Bath-based Sweet Drinks sells , promotes and organises tastings based on produce from the West Country .
With the summer season and big outdoor events approaching , `` we were thinking about taking the business to the next level '' .
She estimates she lost 60 % of her business when lockdown effectively closed the events season .
Rachel says : `` Given all the hurdles and rejections we were reading about with the business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a little .
`` This new scheme looks much more suitable for us .
We 've got enough money to cover our costs for a while , '' she said .
`` We had hoped sales over the next few months would generate enough money to launch a new website and a mail order business . ''
Six months ago she was thinking of taking out a big bank loan to fund expansion , financing that would have come with a hefty interest rate .
That could have made the current situation worse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she says .
`` But luckily I 'm a glass-half-full person , so I 'm staying positive and just trying to do my best given the business environment . ''
What are the terms ?
The government will cover the cost of fees and interest for the first year .
Businesses will only begin repaying the loan after 12 months .
All lenders will charge a flat rate of 2.5 % and the loans will last up to six years .
This bounce-back rate is likely to be lower than most CBILS as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is guaranteeing 100 % of the loan from lenders if the firm defaults .
With CBILS , the guarantee is 80 % of the money .
Both the Treasury and banks are keen to emphasise that they are loans that need to be repaid .
The tax authorities have promised close inspection of all loans given .
What if I 've already applied for a loan under CBILS ?
You can still apply for one of these new loans .
You can switch your CBILS application to a bounce back one if it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you already have a CBIL you can convert it , the Treasury says .
Applicants do not have to stay with existing lenders .
The major High Street banks will provide the bulk of the loans .
But 50 lenders that have been approved to offer bounce-bank loans include peer-to-peer platform Funding Circle and specialist small business backers .
Steven Jones , chief executive of UK Finance , told the BBC the affordability checks would `` be lighter '' , but firms should still `` think very carefully about their ability to repay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guarantee , banks are required to first chase firms for money if they do not repay the loan .
That means seizing assets and pursuing business owners through the courts .
Mr Jones said : `` These are loans , not grants , so if a business is already indebted and taking on further debt , they should think carefully before making an application . ''
The British Chambers of Commerce has said that about 30 % of its members say they can not afford to take on more debt .

"This new scheme looks much more suitable for us. We've got enough money to cover our costs for a while," she said. "We had hoped sales over the next few months would generate enough money to launch a new website and a mail order business."


bbc--2020-05-04--India coronavirus: Delhi shuts some liquor shops due to crowds

Police in India 's capital Delhi shut liquor stores in parts of the city , hours after they opened for the first time since 24 March .
India issued new guidelines that came into effect on Monday , permitting some standalone shops and offices to open .
States have been pushing for liquor shops to reopen as excise duty on alcohol is a major source of income .
However , videos of snaking lines and jostling crowds in front of the shops have gone viral .
This is despite strict orders that people buying alcohol would have to stand six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people would be allowed inside a shop at any given time .
Delhi was among several states that reopened liquor shops , but similar scenes are being reported from other parts of the country .
In the southern state of Karnataka , queues formed outside alcohol shops from very early morning .
Earlier , Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had said that it was time for restrictions to be relaxed in the city , saying it was time the city `` learned to live with the coronavirus '' .
With the economy slowing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there has been pressure to partially ease restrictions .
But social distancing is proving to be a real challenge .

This is despite strict orders that people buying alcohol would have to stand six feet apart, and that only five people would be allowed inside a shop at any given time.


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus: Ghana's dancing pallbearers become Covid-19 meme

In 2017 this troupe of Ghanaian pallbearers went viral following BBC Africa 's coverage of their flamboyant coffin-carrying dances , @ @ @ @ @ Three years later due and the group has experienced a second round of internet fame @ @ @ @ @ adopting the troupe as a dark-humoured symbol of death in the time of Covid-19 .
@ @ @ @ @ met up with the leader of the troupe to get his reaction to his new-found @ @ @ @ @ 's coping during the pandemic .

In 2017 this troupe of Ghanaian pallbearers went viral following BBC Africa's coverage of their flamboyant coffin-carrying dances, garnering millions of views.
Three years later and the group has experienced a second round of internet fame, with social media users adopting the troupe as a dark-humoured symbol of death in the time of Covid-19.
BBC Africa's Sulley Lansah met up with the leader of the troupe to get his reaction to his new-found fame and see how he's coping during the pandemic.
Edited by Faith Ilevbare
Produced by Marko Zoric


bbc--2020-05-04--Australia coronavirus: Lockdown easing prompts celebrations and outings

Some lucky Australians this weekend emerged , blinking in the sun , after more than a month in lockdown .
Gary Nunn reports on that first celebration once out of lockdown .
With cases of Covid-19 falling in several states , some of the tightest restrictions have been lifted .
So where they could , people got out to enjoy Australia 's great outdoors , while others made the most of being able to see people they do n't live with .
Australia 's states and territories each have their own government and own coronavirus measures .
For those lucky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two-person rule has been eased to a 10-person limit , indoors or out .
People there can now have up to nine of their mates around for that most Aussie of activities : a barbecue ( with social distancing ) .
But Victoria - Australia 's second most populous state - remains in lockdown .
Here 's how some people celebrated their first weekend of relative freedom .
From 'worst mum ever ' to the best For Louanne Ward , the first weekend under a looser lockdown in Western Australia had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Perth planned a big surprise 17th birthday party for her son , Parker .
His actual birthday , a pool party with 20 friends , was due take place on the first weekend of Australia 's lockdown in March - but was cancelled by his mum , despite his protests .
`` Apparently I was the 'world 's worst mum ' and clearly I have trust issues ! ''
Louanne tells the BBC .
So Louanne `` conspired '' with her son 's best friend to arrange a big outdoor barbecue around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teens on the first autumnal Australian evening they could get together again .
The guest-list had to be brutally tight .
In accordance with WA 's new rules , eight of Parker 's best mates were invited over .
`` Picking them was tough ! ''
his mum says .
`` He 's highly sociable - lockdown has been very challenging . ''
Her plan was for him to `` return from his beach walk to balloons , music , the fire roaring and eight of his best friends he has n't seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dancing and doing backflips '' she said before the event .
`` He has no idea ! ''
Although Louanne said she would n't be insisting all attendees download Covid Safe , the government 's contact tracing app , she was planning to strictly monitor 1.5-metre social distancing .
In the end , the event was a huge success and went off without a hitch .
`` We take so much for granted which we are all learning , '' says Louanne .
`` Celebrating a birthday and other special occasions are things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When there are no expectations and you are purely present and in the moment there is something different in the way people respond . ''
In New South Wales , Australia 's most populous state , restrictions eased only slightly : two ( healthy ) visitors are now allowed into your home to socialise .
It was the green light Sydneysider Michelle McLeod , 54 , was longing for .
She has n't been further than her local supermarket in six weeks .
Now she and her best mate have itchy feet .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ till it was officially OK to visit , '' she says .
They visited a mutual friend 's house to join two Facebook live events run by popular Sydney DJs Dan Murphy and Mary Kiana who play `` hands in the air camp classics , '' Michelle says .
`` We 're cracking open the bubbly and dancing around his living room - party for three ! ''
She said would be playing safe by washing her hands as soon as she arrived , changing her shoes and then would `` dance 1.5m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Music connects us all .
Bring it on . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• CONTACT-TRACING APPS : Why are there doubts ?
After five weeks of necessarily draconian measures , Queenslanders were this weekend permitted to go for a drive , ride a motorbike for pleasure , picnic and visit national parks .
Nathan Brayshaw , 49 , and his wife Kristi , 46 , were taking advantage of all four new freedoms for a special reason : their belated 20th wedding anniversary .
Many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Nathan is a police officer and his wife a nurse .
`` It 'll be good to get further than the local shops into the fresh air and tranquillity on our matching black and white Postie motorbikes , '' Nathan said before the trip , using Australian slang for their type of bike .
`` You could n't go further than your postcode till this weekend and , as a police officer , I know how strict that was - we were handing out violation tickets . ''
They were setting off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they expected to be heavy traffic as everyone made the most of the weekend .
The couple planned to unfurl a picnic blanket and clink glasses at Queensland 's Scenic Rim , its most beautiful picnic spot .
They also wanted to support a local boutique cafe with takeaway food : `` After the bushfires , then lockdown , they need our support , '' Nathan says .
As it turned out it was `` a freezing day '' , says Nathan .
`` 7C at sea level when we left home - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her warm motorcycle helmet on and we could n't get warm sitting in the sun , '' he adds .
`` And it was absolutely the best day ever . ''
Out on the waves Ann Boswell and Duncan May , both 42 , were taking advantage of Queensland 's other lifted restriction : going for a boat trip from the Gold Coast to Stradbroke Island .
Lockdown has made Ann , who is working from home , `` stir-crazy '' - especially with the tantalising river in view .
`` We absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the world , '' she says .
`` But the water was our getaway , where we 'd leave the responsibilities of the week behind . ''
Duncan adds : `` It 's been a stressful time with no option to unwind .
Getting out there will be like pressing reset .
Cruising with the music on , no set destination and no timetable ! ''
Ann agrees , with a key caveat : `` It 'll be bittersweet as we ca n't yet take our friends and family out .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so refreshing .
This small step towards reducing the restrictions actually feels like a big deal .
It feels like a holiday ! ''
Hope for next few weeks Australia has recorded more than 6,800 cases of Covid-19 and 95 deaths .
These relatively low rates mean it has been recognised as an emerging world leader in handling the crisis .
Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Friday declared Australia has `` earned an early mark '' due to its successful response , adding that `` we ca n't keep Australia under the doona @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's given hope to Australians that if the pattern of falling cases continues , they may soon be able to start planning even more ambitious celebrations .

Her plan was for him to "return from his beach walk to balloons, music, the fire roaring and eight of his best friends he hasn't seen for weeks singing him happy birthday, dancing and doing backflips" she said before the event. "He has no idea!"


bbc--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: High-schoolers take their proms online

For many high school students , going to prom is a rite of passage and a highlight of the academic year .
It 's a time they get to ignore school-work , dress up and have fun with their friends .
`` Prom was something that I had looked forward to since middle school .
The end of senior year is the most exciting time of high school because it 's our last few months with our friends before graduation and I was really excited to have all the special experiences that come with being a senior , '' Senaida @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC .
But with social distancing in place due to the coronavirus outbreak , students in the US and Canada , like Senaida , are seeing their school cancel or postpone their prom .
`` I bought my prom dress in grade 10 and had been waiting for the day I would wear it for my senior prom .
I even planned a big promposal to ask a celebrity to prom , '' the 17-year-old said .
`` I 'm really sad that I 'll never get to do those things and even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only one experiencing these disappointments , it 's still pretty sad . ''
Isabella Domidion , from Kentucky , had also been planning for her school 's prom for some time .
`` I was pretty upset about our prom being cancelled .
This was supposed to be my senior prom , which everyone waits so long for . ''
So like many teenagers at the moment , both high-schoolers took part in a virtual prom .
Virtual proms take place on sites like Zoom , YouTube , Twitch and Tik Tok , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dressing in their planned outfits .
The hashtag virtual prom has more than one million entries .
Before her virtual prom started , Isabella and her sister posed for pictures outside their house in their outfits , just as they would have for their school 's prom .
`` We treated it just like we would if we were attending an in-person prom .
A friend of mine started it and she invited several people .
She played music the whole time and we even danced during the cha-cha-slide , '' she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prom which was so popular she could n't join the Zoom party .
`` I think there were around 1,500-2,000 people watching .
People started making their own Zoom chat rooms and so I joined a random one and ended up meeting a bunch of teenagers from around the world .
We had a fun time talking and getting to know each other , '' she said .
Virtual proms have become such a phenomenon that celebrities are even joining in to make sure high-schoolers do n't miss out on the prom experience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'We think it ’ s worth it' • New Jersey pupils with lunch debt banned from prom Many high-schoolers are going through a stressful time .
Some have had exams cancelled or delayed while others have had their graduations moved online .
Actor John Kraskinski hosted his own prom , telling viewers that they were `` missing a whole lot of things and we could n't let prom be one of them '' .
He was joined by a host of celebrities such as Billie Eilish , Chance the Rapper and the Jonas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where social distancing rules are in place .
Her prom has been postponed until June or July but if social distancing rules do n't change , it 's unclear if it would be held after that .
She decided to take part in Krasinski 's prom and made a video of herself getting ready on her Youtube channel .
`` I did a group call with two of my friends so we could watch it and talk to each other over it .
It was pretty fun to experience because we 've never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before , '' she told the BBC .
Like others , she had planned her outfit for some time but was unable to buy her dress because the store was closed due to social distancing .
`` I had my whole entire outfit planned from my dress to my nails and my hair and the make-up .
The dress I used happened to be an old dress of my mother 's that I 've always wanted to wear and I just thought I might as well put on a random dress that I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was a great excuse for me to go back into my closet and play dress-up . ''
Sophia added that for some people a virtual prom is less daunting especially when it comes to the idea of dancing .
She said her friends were n't the type to dance but during the virtual prom , they seemed to have the confidence to give it a go .
`` It was nice to see them break through that barrier and be able to be like that behind a computer screen , so it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to building up confidence . ''
With the popularity of virtual proms rising and social distancing measures still in place for the time being , it seems that high-schoolers are likely to continue to mark their proms online .
But is it worth it ?
`` It gave me something to look forward to , and a way to celebrate all the hard work from this year with all the people I love , all while practicing safe social distancing .
It really was a blast ! ''
Isabella said .

"I had my whole entire outfit planned from my dress to my nails and my hair and the make-up. The dress I used happened to be an old dress of my mother's that I've always wanted to wear and I just thought I might as well put on a random dress that I haven't worn in the past so it was a great excuse for me to go back into my closet and play dress-up."


bbc--2020-05-03--Black hair: Dealing with my curls during lockdown

Kezia from Birmingham , is struggling to find the products she needs for her hair during lockdown .
High street @ @ @ @ @ usually get advice and products to keep her hair moisturised , are currently closed .
@ @ @ @ @ from Dominique , who has been running online hair tutorials during the coronavirus crisis .

Kezia from Birmingham, is struggling to find the products she needs for her hair during lockdown.
High street hair shops, where she would usually get advice and products to keep her moisturised, are currently closed.
She asked for some tips from Dominique, who has been running online hair tutorials during the coronavirus crisis.
Video journalist: Simone Stewart


bbc--2020-05-03--Coronavirus lockdown: How does it affect babies?

Having a baby or young child can be difficult at the best of times , but with parents now in @ @ @ @ @ challenging time .
Educational psychologist Dr Abigail Wright , from the British Psychological Society , @ @ @ @ @ a child 's development is their parents .
Dr Wright , who is also the @ @ @ @ @ and three-year-old , offers her advice and we hear from two parents who share their @ @ @ @ @ babies in isolation .

Having a baby or young child can be difficult at the best of times, but with parents now in lockdown it is a particularly challenging time.
Educational psychologist Dr Abigail Wright, from the British Psychological Society, says the key thing for a child's development is their parents.
Dr Wright, who is also the mother of a four-month-old baby and three-year-old, offers her advice and we hear from two parents who share their experiences of caring for their babies in isolation.
Video journalist: Alex Dackevych


bbc--2020-05-04--Coronavirus: Greece and Croatia acted fast, now need to save summer

Greece has always prided itself on its sunny weather , beaches and islands .
And anyone familiar with the coast of Croatia will know that finding towel room on its increasingly crowded beaches is a challenge .
But the coronavirus pandemic threatens to ruin the summer season , so vital to the economies of both countries , even though they moved fast to stop the spread .
Their proximity to Italy concentrated minds , as Covid-19 started spreading rapidly .
How did they react ?
Croatia was on alert soon after news of the Covid-19 epidemic emerged from China .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidelines even before the arrival of a busload of tourists from Wuhan in late January .
Local media raised concerns that Chinese workers constructing the Peljesac Bridge on the Dalmatian coast might have returned from virus-affected areas in China .
• What travel might look like before a vaccine In Greece , too , the government moved well before the virus reached its shores , as it saw infections spread in Italy .
An ad-hoc scientific committee was set up with top epidemiologists , virologists and infectious disease experts .
Some accused the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the handling of the pandemic to scientists , but of handing over responsibility too .
The first confirmed Croatian case came on 25 February , almost a month after Italy and the UK .
It involved a man who had been in Milan six days earlier to see the now-notorious Champions League match between Atalanta and Valencia .
The match has been linked to one of Italy 's biggest outbreaks - in Bergamo , where Atalanta are based .
The first confirmed case in Greece was recorded a day later than Croatia , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reacted swiftly .
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis imposed tighter restrictions over a period of weeks and it was made clear that no exceptions could be made : • 12 March : Olympic flame is lit in Ancient Olympia with a handful of VIP guests ; Greece confirms first Covid-19 death Greeks have since been allowed out of their homes only for essential work , buying food or walking the dog .
It became more difficult to enter Croatia immediately after its first case .
Although an EU member , it is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So , despite protests from neighbouring Slovenia , it had no compunction about imposing `` health checks '' at border crossings .
By the end of February , a border queue of freight traffic stretched back for miles .
Restrictions tightened rapidly .
Within two weeks , arrivals from 18 countries would find themselves confined to quarantine or self-isolation if they entered Croatia .
There were internal measures to match .
Most commercial and cultural activity had ceased by mid-March .
And on 23 March people were confined to their neighbourhoods unless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel .
Greek enforcement was strict too .
More than 60,000 fines were issued for violating the lockdown which , according to Greek police , totalled €9,247,800 ( £8.1m ) .
All this seems to have restricted the spread of Covid-19 .
Croatia 's death rate currently stands at 18 per million , while Greece 's stands at 13 per million .
One of the biggest challenges facing the Greek government came from the country 's religious tradition .
According to Greek Orthodox ritual , priests offer holy communion using the same spoon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted for days that diseases could not be contracted from communion , which represents the blood and body of Jesus .
Doctors and scientists immediately called on the Church to listen to science .
The prime minister intervened with an emotional , televised speech .
`` Personally , in recent days I felt the need to invoke my faith in order to draw strength and stand up to the challenges , '' said Mr Mitsotakis .
However , he said he had to `` listen to scientists '' .
`` What applies to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
As a result , and with only a handful of hiccups , all church Easter liturgies took place behind closed doors .
• What Boris Johnson 's Greek hero teaches us about epidemics • The family isolating in a van on a Greek Island Now Croatia and Greece are moving to a gradual easing of those restrictions .
For Croatia the problem is no longer how to keep foreigners out , but to bring them back in .
About half of Croatia 's 20 million annual visitors arrive in July and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least a fifth of its economic output .
Those are the crucial months for Greece 's tourist industry too .
This year 's motto , says Tourism Minister Haris Theocharis , is that Greece is coronavirus-safe .
The Greek economy had only just begun to recover from an eight-year financial crisis when the lockdown was imposed .
Tourism accounts for approximately 25 % of Greek GDP and one in five jobs , so a new crisis is looming : 65 % of Greek hoteliers say bankruptcy of their business is either `` likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to a study by the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels .
Greek scientists are working on health requirements for visitors , the tourism minister says .
`` The basic principles behind the new rules are that social distancing will be required , and that more frequent and different kinds of cleaning procedures are to be followed . ''
In other words , hotel staff will be tested regularly to ensure tourists and Greeks themselves are protected .
Croatia needs co-operation from its neighbours , Slovenia in particular .
Slovenians rank second only to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nights they spend in Croatia .
If you travel by road from Northern Europe you have to cross Slovenia to reach the beaches of Istria , Dalmatia and the Kvarner Gulf .
The two countries ' tourism ministers met in Zagreb last week to sketch out a plan to allow Slovenians to travel across Croatia 's borders by the end of this month , with other nationalities following in June .
Czech travel agencies are keen to establish a `` corona corridor '' enabling quarantine-free travel to the coast , a plan warmly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrej Plenkovic .
A survey in Austria too has indicated that people are still hoping to bask in the Croatian sun .
With big questions over when holiday flights will resume , Greece too is initially looking for tourists who can reach the country by road .
It is currently focused on getting the EU to set common rules that would allow people to travel for holidays .
But if there is no consensus , Greece is prepared to go it alone , in order to `` open up our economic activity as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manner '' , says Mr Theocharis .
`` We will first see domestic tourism , then tourists from neighbouring countries , and then middle-distance countries and long-distance ones .
Travelling by road will be safer initially than flying and we 'll see that kind of tourists earlier . ''
Traditional markets like Germany , the UK and the US may well be replaced by countries that are both closer and have not been hit hard by the pandemic .
This may seem like an odd time to be thinking about holidays .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and , having acted swiftly and thoroughly , a successful summer could be seen as a fitting reward .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW How to understand the death toll • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?

The prime minister intervened with an emotional, televised speech. "Personally, in recent days I felt the need to invoke my faith in order to draw strength and stand up to the challenges," said Mr Mitsotakis. However, he said he had to "listen to scientists". "What applies to public gatherings will also apply to churches."


bbc--2020-05-03--‘After eight years on drugs, I run a million-dollar firm again'

The BBC 's weekly The Boss series profiles different business leaders from around the world .
This week we speak to Ian Powell and Jackie Hueftle who own US firm Kilter Grips , which makes holds for climbing walls .
When Ian Powell hit rock bottom very hard , it was in life rather than while climbing a cliff face .
A former US national team climber back in the early 1990s , by 2010 , aged 39 , he was a homeless drug addict in Denver , Colorado .
Addicted to both crack cocaine and crystal meth , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while hiding away in commercial waste containers .
Stealing to fund his habit , he was eventually arrested and sent to prison for credit card fraud .
`` I just designed a destruction of a life , '' says Ian looking back .
Born in 1971 in Atlanta , Georgia , Ian remembers that his love of climbing started very young , when he was three or four .
But it was a difficult childhood , in that his father who was an alcoholic took his own life when Ian was 10 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Texas , where he really started to get into climbing as a teenager .
Joining the US team then followed , but he eventually dropped out .
`` I wanted to be a contender , but I was just not destined to make a living as a professional , '' says Ian .
`` I still wanted to be involved in the industry , so I decided to do something else . ''
With a background in design and fine art , that something else was making holds for indoor climbing walls .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was quickly complimented for its innovative styles , shapes and use of materials for holds .
The money started coming in .
Ian is also a talented sculptor , and at the same time he started selling his art creations for tens of thousands of dollars .
This led to his temptation to take drugs .
`` I 'd never really been around hard drugs , but then I found I could sell whatever I wanted , '' he says .
`` I had money lying around , loose bundles of cash , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He says he was n't equipped to deal with the success and the lavish praise thrown his way - and so his drug use spiralled out of control .
`` It must show a special kind of low self-esteem if you really want to destroy your life with drugs .
I was n't able to turn my life around until I went all the way to the bottom .
I basically threw away eight more years of my life . ''
It was while in prison that Ian was finally able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an interview in 2013 he said that prison had been one of the happiest times of his life , because he was able to regain it .
After a year in jail , Ian was released to a halfway house in Boulder , Colorado .
An old friend called Dan Howley who owned a gym in the city decided to give him a chance .
And so Ian started doing odd jobs at the venue .
Eventually Dan gave Ian some foam to start carving climbing holds again , and slowly Ian 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into existence .
Jackie Hueftle was also working at the same gym , and as a fellow climbing enthusiast she was impressed by the holds Ian was making , and so took on the marketing work .
She and Ian also started dating , despite her remembering his behaviour during his years as an addict , when at one point he had even stolen her car .
`` I reminded him of that , and he felt terrible , '' she says As sales of Kilter Grips ' products grew , the business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Today it has annual sales of $ 2.5m ( £2m ) , and Ian and Jackie remain both boyfriend and girlfriend , and business partners .
`` Our partnership works well because he 's the artist , and I 'm the mellower one , '' says Jackie , 38 .
• 'He said it was the stupidest idea he had seen' • 'Coronavirus is the biggest low in my career' • ' I reinvented the hair tie from my uni halls' • 'We all have resilience ... You 've got to make it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Denver-based Beast Fingers Climbing , which makes training devices for climbers , says that Ian has been an important figure in the development of the climbing sector .
`` In many ways Ian has always been at the forefront of climbing innovation and creating opportunities for other innovators , '' he says .
`` From his early start at eGrips , to now with Kilter Grips , he has shown many younger generations that the industry needs creators .
Ian is a sculptor at heart . ''
Ian designs his hand-crafted climbing holds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the back of his and Jackie 's home in Boulder , spending hours , often at night .
`` When I crashed my life I disappeared from the climbing world , '' he says .
`` Nobody knew where I was .
`` But when I got clean and sober and wanted to come back , I was lucky , because most people - not everybody - but many people , welcomed me back . ''

It was while in prison that Ian was finally able to conquer his drug addictions. In an interview in 2013 he said that prison had been one of the happiest times of his life, because he was able to regain it.


bbc--2020-05-04--Coronavirus stokes Middle East boiling points

The Middle East has many reasons to fear the coronavirus pandemic , but it has one big advantage when it comes to resisting it .
Most people in the region are young .
A rough average is that at least 60 % are under the age of 30 .
That makes them less susceptible to developing Covid-19 , the illness that has killed so many people in countries with older populations .
Most governments in the region saw what was happening elsewhere and had time to impose curfews and social distancing measures .
But that is where the Middle East @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the world 's least stable region have left weaknesses that the pandemic is sure to deepen .
Medical capabilities vary widely .
The best hospitals in Israel are as good as any in the world .
The healthcare systems in Yemen , Syria and Libya - never strong - have been severely damaged , and in places destroyed , by years of war .
Yemen was already in the grip , the UN said , of the world 's worst humanitarian crisis .
Now it has cases of Covid-19 , which could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Aden , in the south , is in political turmoil .
Even after two Covid-19 deaths were announced last week local residents were reported to be ignoring a curfew , still flocking to markets and mosques .
Those same young people who have the best chance of resisting the virus were , before it hit , leading demonstrations against their governments .
Every country has its own grievances , but in the Arab Middle East the protests have centred on corruption , cronyism and reform .
Corrupt elites are accused of siphoning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into public services , not least hospitals .
In Algeria , Lebanon and Iraq they forced out a president and two prime ministers .
Protesters who refused to budge occupied the main squares of capital cities .
In Iraq , they stayed put even after around 600 protesters were shot dead and thousands more were wounded .
Young people who refused orders to clear the streets for months will not be enjoying the irony that the coronavirus has forced them indoors .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked to play god • REASON TO HOPE : The good that may come out of this crisis When they emerge they will find the economies that failed miserably to generate jobs for them are now in even worse shape .
The result will be more anger , deepened but not created by the dangers and frustrations of this pandemic year .
Leaders will have even fewer options .
The global shutdown has already hurt Middle Eastern economies badly .
In Lebanon , demonstrators left close to destitute by an economy that was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus arrived have besieged and burnt banks .
Bigger players in the Middle East will have to rethink ambitious , sometimes dangerous , always expensive foreign policies .
The days of buying influence and fighting proxy wars may be over .
Lina Khatib , head of the Middle East programme at the think tank Chatham House , believes regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Iran will have `` to redo their calculations regarding the spread of their influence in the Middle East '' .
`` They will be pushed to prioritise ... making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the past , such as in Yemen or Syria , '' she says .
The economic consequences of the coronavirus are damaging everyone , from oil billionaires in the Gulf to day labourers in Egypt .
In poorer countries , millions rely on the money they scrape together from day to day .
If they do n't work during curfews , they do n't have money to buy food .
Iran is reopening its borders to trade after an outbreak that it reports has killed more than 6,000 of the 97,000 who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on top of renewed American sanctions that were already hammering Iran 's economy .
Religious pilgrimages are a big part of some Middle Eastern economies .
Iraq , losing billions of oil dollars , also relies on millions of Shia pilgrims , mainly from Iran .
In Saudi Arabia , the city of Mecca has been under curfew , fully expecting the annual Hajj pilgrimage in July to be cancelled .
The collapse in oil prices mean huge drops in the income of countries that once looked financially impregnable .
Saudi Arabia 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no longer look affordable .
Algeria , with 60 % of its income from oil and gas , is cutting public spending by a third .
Algeria 's protest movement , Hirak , suspended more than a year of weekly protests in March because of the virus .
But as the cuts bite , they will be back .
The Arab uprisings in 2011 were powered by the anger of young people who believed their future was being stolen .
Their hopes for change were mostly squandered or crushed .
But anger was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damage the virus is causing could create another political eruption .

Iran is reopening its borders to trade after an outbreak that it reports has killed more than 6,000 of the 97,000 who have been infected. The virus comes on top of renewed American sanctions that were already hammering Iran's economy.


bbc--2020-05-04--Hard to see fans returning to football matches any time soon - FA chairman

Football Association chairman Greg Clarke has said it is hard to see fans returning to matches `` any time soon '' .
If the Premier League and Football League resume then those matches will be played behind closed doors .
The Premier League is also preparing for the possibility of playing the 2020-21 season without fans .
`` The reality is that we just do n't know how things are going to pan out , '' Clarke wrote in a letter to the FA governing council .
`` But with social distancing in place for some time to come we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football ecosystem .
`` For example it 's hard to foresee crowds of fans - who are the lifeblood of the game - returning to matches any time soon . ''
Clarke warned of an FA budget cut of £75m this year , with a `` worst-case scenario '' of a £300m deficit over the next four years impacting `` every area of the game '' .
• How realistic is Premier League plan to resume season ?
Is there a split between Premier League clubs ?
Top-flight clubs have been told that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
A growing number of Premier League clubs are open to playing the remaining fixtures at neutral venues but with the threat of relegation removed .
A larger 23-team division has been suggested , with three teams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an already-crowded calendar , that is not an option currently being considered by the Premier League .
The BBC has learned that the Premier League fear between six or seven clubs are opposed to neutral stadiums .
But there is also a sense that within that group there are disagreements over how they want the season to end .
The neutral stadium proposal needs 14 out of 20 clubs to vote in favour of it to be adopted .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will reveal his `` roadmap '' out of lockdown on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League 's next meeting will be delayed until next week .
What are we up to with 'Project Restart ' ?
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 .
Plans to resume the league have been labelled 'Project Restart ' .
The league is hopeful of a potential 8 June restart and finishing at the end of July to fit in with Uefa 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full training to begin by 18 May .
In addition to the neutral venues , the league would also need up to 40,000 tests for players and staff if plans to play the outstanding games behind closed doors are pursued .
On Friday , after their most recent meeting by video conference , Premier League clubs reiterated a commitment to resuming the season `` when safe and appropriate to do so '' .
What about players returning to training ?
A number of clubs reopened their training grounds for individual training last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social distancing rules are relaxed , BBC Sport understands players will be tested for coronavirus twice a week and would be screened for symptoms every day .
In addition , players must arrive at training grounds in kit and wear masks at all times .
What has been the reaction from players ?
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has said players are `` scared '' about the prospect of returning to action .
Team-mate Kevin de Bruyne added : `` I do n't think people are really afraid for themselves , but for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problem for many people . ''
Brighton striker Glenn Murray , meanwhile , says some proposed protocols around the Premier League 's return to action , such as wearing face masks , are `` farcical '' .
What have clubs said ?
Only a few clubs have spoken publicly .
In addition to Brighton 's chief executive Paul Barber , 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 .
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Premier League football one of the safest places in society to co-exist '' .
Writing in the Sunday Times , 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 '' .

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
If the Premier League does resume this season then it will do so behind closed doors
Football Association chairman Greg Clarke has said it is hard to see fans returning to matches "any time soon".
If the Premier League and Football League seasons resume, those matches will be played behind closed doors.
The Premier League is also preparing for the possibility of playing the 2020-21 season without fans.
"The reality is that we just don't know how things are going to pan out," Clarke wrote in a letter to the FA governing council.
"But with social distancing in place for some time to come we do face substantial changes to the whole football ecosystem.
"For example it's hard to foresee crowds of fans - who are the lifeblood of the game - returning to matches any time soon."
Clarke warned of an FA budget cut of £75m this year, with a "worst-case scenario" of a £300m deficit over the next four years impacting "every area of the game".
Is there a split between Premier League clubs?
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.
A growing number of Premier League clubs are open to playing the remaining fixtures at neutral venues but with the threat of relegation removed.
A larger 23-team division has been suggested, with three teams added from the Championship. But with an already crowded calendar, that is not an option currently being considered by the Premier League.
The BBC has learned the Premier League fears six or seven clubs are opposed to neutral stadiums.
But there is also a sense that within that group there are disagreements over how they want the season to end.
The neutral stadium proposal needs 14 out of 20 clubs to vote in favour for it to be adopted.
What next?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will reveal his "roadmap" out of lockdown on Sunday and that means that the Premier League's next meeting will be delayed until next week.
What are we up to with 'Project Restart'?
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.
Plans to resume the league have been labelled 'Project Restart'. The league is hopeful of a potential 8 June restart and finishing at the end of July to fit in with Uefa's European competition plans. This would require full training to begin by 18 May.
In addition to the neutral venues, the league would also need up to 40,000 tests for players and staff if plans to play the outstanding games behind closed doors are pursued.
On Friday, after their most recent meeting by video conference, Premier League clubs reiterated a commitment to resuming the season "when safe and appropriate to do so".
What about players returning to training?
A number of clubs reopened their training grounds for individual training last week.
If full training is resumed before social distancing rules are relaxed, BBC Sport understands players will be tested for coronavirus twice a week and would be screened for symptoms every day.
In addition, players must arrive at training grounds in kit and wear masks at all times.
What has been the reaction from players?
Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has said players are "scared" about the prospect of returning to action. Team-mate Kevin de Bruyne added: "I don't think people are really afraid for themselves, but for their family. That is mainly the problem for many people."
Brighton striker Glenn Murray, meanwhile, says some proposed protocols around the Premier League's return to action, such as wearing face masks, are "farcical".
What have clubs said?
Only a few clubs have spoken publicly.
In addition to Brighton's chief executive Paul Barber, 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.
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has said the protocols in place would "render Premier League football one of the safest places in society to co-exist".
Writing in the Sunday Times, 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".


bbc--2020-05-04--Best players, top moments & favourite goals - your Premier League & WSL awards

The Professional Footballers ' Association Player of the Year awards for 2019-20 should already have been handed out , with the rest of the footballing honours normally awarded in the next few weeks .
With the Premier League and Women 's Super League still in limbo , as both remain suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic , what is traditionally award season is very much on hold .
So , BBC Sport has decided to take a look at the season so far and given you the chance to vote for your favourite players , moments , signings and much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a number of BBC Sport journalists , we have drawn up a shortlist for a number of categories and now want you to vote .
You have until 12:00 BST on Wednesday to register your vote on this page , before we don our glad rags and reveal the winners in an awards day special live text on Thursday .
We know plenty of you will disagree with the contenders and winners , so Thursday 's live text will give you the chance to have your say , while that 's when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of your alternative awards via # bbcfootball .

Last updated on .From the section Football
The Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year awards for 2019-20 should already have been handed out, with the rest of the footballing honours normally awarded in the next few weeks.
With the Premier League and Women's Super League still in limbo, as both remain suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic, what is traditionally award season is very much on hold.
So, BBC Sport has decided to take a look at the season so far and given you the chance to vote for your favourite players, moments, signings and much, much more.
With the help of a number of BBC Sport journalists, we drew up a shortlist for a number of categories and let you vote for your winners
Here are the results.
Who has been your Premier League player of the season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who has been your WSL player of the season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who has been the Premier League's young player of the season?
(We are only including players who were aged 23 or under when the season started)
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who has been the WSL's young player of the season?
(Only players who were 23 or under when the season started are eligible)
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who has been the Premier League's signing of the season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who has been the Premier League's biggest surprise?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
(Our shortlist for the best goal so far this season is made up of the winner from every month's Match of the Day goal of the month competition)
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who is your Premier League manager of the season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Who is your WSL manager of the season?
If you are viewing this page on the BBC News app please click here to vote.
Your Premier League team of the season
Your WSL team of the season


bbc--2020-05-04--The Women's Tour cancelled for 2020 because of coronavirus pandemic

Last updated on .From the section Cycling The Women 's Tour has been cancelled for 2020 and will be rearranged for June 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Organisers SweetSpot have now decided not to seek a new date this year .
They have applied to cycling 's governing body the UCI to stage the next edition between 7-12 June , 2021 .
The UCI will release a revised race calendar for this season on Tuesday before confirming the dates for next year in the coming months .
`` Following discussions with stakeholders and sponsors , as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have decided to work towards June 2021 for the next edition of the Women 's Tour , and will not seek to re-arrange the race later in 2020 , '' said SweetSpot Group chairman Hugh Roberts .
`` We recognise the unprecedented nature of the current global situation and the challenges for the UCI calendar and so wanted to take an early decision not to look for an alternative 2020 date . ''
The planned route for this year 's event will be moved to 2021 , with the race starting in Bicester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lizzie Deignan became the first cyclist to win the Women 's Tour twice by winning last year 's edition .

Last updated on .From the section Cycling
Lizzie Deignan won stage five on her way to becoming 2019 Women's Tour champion
The Women's Tour has been cancelled for 2020 and will be rearranged for June 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The stage race, which has been held in Britain every year since 2014, was due to take place from 8-13 June and was initially postponed in March.
Organisers SweetSpot have now decided not to seek a new date this year.
They have applied to cycling's governing body the UCI to stage the next edition between 7-12 June, 2021.
The UCI will release a revised race calendar for this season on Tuesday before confirming the dates for next year in the coming months.
"Following discussions with stakeholders and sponsors, as well as British Cycling and the UCI, we have decided to work towards June 2021 for the next edition of the Women's Tour, and will not seek to re-arrange the race later in 2020," said SweetSpot Group chairman Hugh Roberts.
"We recognise the unprecedented nature of the current global situation and the challenges for the UCI calendar and so wanted to take an early decision not to look for an alternative 2020 date."
The planned route for this year's event will be moved to 2021, with the race starting in Bicester and finishing in Suffolk.
Britain's Lizzie Deignan became the first cyclist to win the Women's Tour twice by winning last year's edition.