inews--2020-05-01--State pension age changes: 'I'm in pain until my medication kicks in and can't work'

State pension age changes : ' I 'm in pain until my medication kicks in and ca n't work' 'You have worked all your life , since you were 14 years old , having an expectation of getting your state pension at 60' Asked what the last few years have been like , she replies : `` Oh it 's been awful because you have worked all your life , since you were 14 years old , having an expectation of getting your state pension at 60 and then the moment before , you 're laughed at and told , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 60 , you ’ re getting it at 66 ' . ''
Zena Barton says she found out about the state pension age changes just before she turned 60 ( Photo : Zena Barton ) But some women say they can not find a job no matter how hard they try and are having to claim benefits .
Others say they have been forced into insecure or unsuitable jobs they are over qualified for .
In 2019 , more than 75 per cent of women in their 50s were employed , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for women in their 60s was 37 per cent .
'My health was very bad' “ I did have a little look around to see what there was available [ afterwards ] but there just wasn ’ t anything .
I would have just accepted anything that would have given me extra income , '' she says , adding that because of her health she was looking for part-time office work .
'In pain all the time' '' That ’ s where the Government has gone wrong .
They didn ’ t bother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way you would expect ... You would think if they are going to make severe changes they would write and let you know as an individual . ''
What has the Government said about the state pension age changes ?

In this ongoing series, i spotlights women who have been affected by the state pension age equalisation: The Women Who Can’t Retire. We are speaking to women in their 60s about their experiences of returning to work, staying in the workforce, accessing education and facing ageism.
Each morning, Zena Barton struggles to put on her socks. The prolapsed discs in her back mean she cannot easily bend down. She has to wait for her daily dose of medication to kick in before she can get herself ready.
She is in constant pain and says she is unable to work.
Although she receives Personal Independent Payment and has income from a private pension, she has had to use some of her savings – that were meant for a nice retirement – to live on because she is still waiting for her state pension.
Zena will get her pension in September, according to Government forecasts – less than a month before her 66th birthday but nearly six years later than she expected.
Asked what the last few years have been like, she replies: “Oh it’s been awful because you have worked all your life, since you were 14 years old, having an expectation of getting your state pension at 60 and then the moment before, you’re laughed at and told, ‘No you’re not getting it at 60, you’re getting it at 66’.”
Like many women born in the 1950s, Zena thought she would be able to retire and get her pension at 60. But the Government increased women’s state pension age to 65, in line with men’s, and is now in the process of moving the age to 66 for both sexes.
Many women affected say they were not properly informed about the changes, leaving them with little time to prepare.
What has changed about the state pension age?
The Government’s move to equalise the state pension age to 65, in line with men, has meant women are having to wait years after they expected to retire for their state pension.
The state pension age is in the process of moving to 66 and will continue to increase over the next few decades.
Many women born in the 1950s say they were never notified about the state pension age changes, but the Government says they were “clearly communicated”. These women say state pension age changes are causing them emotional stress and financial hardship.
An increasing number of women are working in their sixties and beyond. ONS data analysed by Rest Less, a jobs and volunteering site for over 50s, shows there are currently 1.34 million women in their 60s who are working – a 54 per cent increase compared with 10 years ago.
But some women say they cannot find a job no matter how hard they try and are having to claim benefits. Others say they have been forced into insecure or unsuitable jobs they are over qualified for. In 2019, more than 75 per cent of women in their 50s were employed, according to Rest Less, but the figure for women in their 60s was 37 per cent.
‘I was shocked’
Zena, from Brighton, claims to have never received a letter from the Government about the changes and only found out when she was 59.
“I [rang] to ask what did I need to do in order to get my pension. The woman laughed at me. ‘You’ve just told me you’re going to be 60, you’re not getting your pension until you’re 66.’
“I was shocked. That was the first I knew that I wasn’t getting my pension at 60,” says Zena, who previously worked as a “housemother” at a residential school for deaf children, as an audiology technician and as a childminding development worker. The latter was a full-time role she took on while her son was at school.
In 2001 she became an educational consultant for a company working with children with autism, and alongside that completed a degree in autism.
She says she never saw one of the Government’s adverts about the state pension age changes.
Early retirement
She claims she wasn’t even told when she went to see a financial adviser in 2012 about her private pension.
“I’ve tried to take him to task about it because he didn’t tell me. He should have known.”
That same year Zena moved into her mum’s council flat full-time to take care of her, selling the home that she owned.
“If I hadn’t moved in with her, she was going to have to go to a care home. She had lots of things wrong with her.”
The following year, she decided to retire early, still unaware that she would not be getting her pension when she turned 60.
“I wouldn’t have been able to work full time and take care of mum. I did do a few bits of voluntary work, just to keep my own head alright.”
From her private pension, Zena took a lump sum and now receives £500 a month.
She says she probably wouldn’t have carried on working longer than she did even if she knew about the state pension age changes. But she would have done some things differently.
“Had I known 10 years prior I would have gone to a financial adviser and I would have said, ‘What can I do to make sure that I can retire on a good pension when I’m 60?’ Paying bits of money now rather than wait and end up with nothing.”
‘My health was very bad’
Following her mum’s death in 2015, Zena struggled with her own mental and physical health and wasn’t looking for work straight away.
“After she died, my health was very bad. That was partly losing your mum, one of the worst things in the world, but in addition to that I didn’t have anywhere to live really,” she says.
There was not enough equity from the sale of her own house to buy a new place.
After living in accommodation she did not like, she decided to privately rent a flat with her friend. The pair now live together in Housing Association accommodation for people aged over 55.
In July 2017, she took on a part-time office-based role with a charity. It was a short term position that lasted until June 2018.
“It was only a few hours a week, went in three times a week… That was just ideal.
“I did have a little look around to see what there was available [afterwards] but there just wasn’t anything. I would have just accepted anything that would have given me extra income,” she says, adding that because of her health she was looking for part-time office work.
“I did apply for stuff and I didn’t even get a response from the various people. I just think that’s how things are. Unless they definitely want you, they don’t even bother to respond to you.”
‘In pain all the time’
Zena’s health started to become an issue while she worked as an educational consultant. Over the years, the pain has gotten worse.
“I wouldn’t be able to work now. I’m in pain all of the time.
“I’ve got prolapsed discs in my back, which creates severe pain all the time. I’m on morphine patches and lots of pain relief regularly. I can’t do things like bend down and put stuff in the oven to cook a meal. I can’t put my socks on first thing in the morning. I have to wait until I’ve taken my medication and that’s kicking in before I can do things like that.”
She receives the standard allowance for the daily living and mobility elements of Personal Independence Payment because of her health.
“My savings were supposed to be for nice things. I’ve lost good opportunities to do some of the nice things that I was planning for my retirement. Like going on nice holidays, those sorts of things.”
‘Encouraged to work hard’
She says her mum had always told her and her siblings to work hard “in order to do the best we could and get good employment and reasonable lifestyle”.
“[It’s] very frustrating to know that you’ve fulfilled your side of the bargain but the Government didn’t fulfil their side of the bargain,” she says, referring to the state pension age changes.
“I can see that maybe it was a necessary thing to do [move the state pension age up].” However she maintains that she was not properly notified.
“That’s where the Government has gone wrong. They didn’t bother to let everybody know in the proper way you would expect… You would think if they are going to make severe changes they would write and let you know as an individual.”
What has the Government said about the state pension age changes?
A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: “The government decided more than 20 years ago that it was going to make the State Pension age the same for men and women as a long-overdue move towards gender equality, and this has been clearly communicated.
“We need to raise the age at which all of us can draw a State Pension so it is sustainable now and for future generations.”
If you would like to share your experience of working until you receive your state pension, please contact serina.sandhu@inews.co.uk


inews--2020-05-01--Why do we say 'white rabbit' on the first day of the month? The meaning behind the eccentric phrase,

Why do we say 'white rabbit' on the first day of the month? The meaning behind the eccentric phrase, explained

Why do we say 'white rabbit ' on the first day of the month ?
The meaning behind the eccentric phrase , explained Some believe the whole thing started with President George Washington Today is 1 October and you might have already been pinched and punched by a sibling or a friend .
Maybe even a random bloke on the bus .
Both are supposed to be uttered before midday and are said to bring good luck .
Neither are unlikely to actually do so , but people do it anyway .
It 's a gentle British tradition .
Some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Photo : Unsplash ) There are numerous theories .
Some believe the whole thing started with President George Washington , who led the US from 1789 to 1797 .
Apparently , on the first day of each month , Washington would meet native tribal leaders and gift fruit punch with an added pinch of salt .
It became known , so the story goes , as `` pinch punch on the first of the month '' .
Others believe the traditional started long before .
In medieval Britain , when people believed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was said to make witches weak , and the saying was supposed to weaken evil beings .
The punch was to banish such characters forevermore - it was protective and shrouded in superstition .
The white rabbits are arguably a more confusing element .
In a 1909 British periodical called Notes and Queries , a reference to the phrase can be found .
The book covers folklore , literature , and history , and charts some of Britain 's many obscurities .
`` My two daughters are in the habit of saying ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of each month , '' the entry reads .
`` The word must be spoken aloud , and be the first word said in the month .
First of the month ( Photo : Unsplash ) The passage is n't exactly explanatory and while we know the term has been around a long while , its origins remain vague .
The the 1922 novel Solomon in all his Glory , by Robert Lynd , an extract reads : `` 'Why ' , the man in the brown hat laughed at him , ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , rabbit ' .
`` If you say 'Rabbit , rabbit , rabbit ' - three times , just like that - first thing in the morning on the first of the month , even before you say your prayers , you 'll get a present before the end of the month . ''
It is reasonable enough to put `` white rabbits '' down to British eccentricity .
It 's a simple good luck charm , essentially .
And it 's continued through the ages .
Those may claim the first to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be exempt from retaliation , others believe the correct response is to respond with a `` flick and a quick for being so quick '' .

Today is 1 July, and in ordinary, non-Covid times you might have been pinched and punched by a sibling or a friend. Maybe even a random bloke on the bus.
You may have also heard the expression “white rabbits” as a precursor, one of various traditions supposed to be uttered before midday and are said to bring good luck.
But where do all the “white rabbits” come from?
Some think the term warns of witches (Photo: Unsplash)
‘Pinch, punch’
There are numerous theories. Some believe the whole thing started with President George Washington, who led the US from 1789 to 1797.
Apparently, on the first day of each month, Washington would meet native tribal leaders and gift fruit punch with an added pinch of salt. It became known, so the story goes, as “pinch punch on the first of the month”.
Others believe the traditional started long before. In medieval Britain, when people believed in witches and other such sorcery, salt was said to make witches weak, and the saying was supposed to weaken evil beings. The punch was to banish such characters forevermore – it was protective and shrouded in superstition.
The white rabbits are arguably a more confusing element. In a 1909 British periodical called Notes and Queries, a reference to the phrase can be found. The book covers folklore, literature, and history, and charts some of Britain’s many obscurities.
“My two daughters are in the habit of saying ‘Rabbits!’ on the first day of each month,” the entry reads. “The word must be spoken aloud, and be the first word said in the month.
“It brings luck for that month. Other children, I find, use the same formula.”
First of the month (Photo: Unsplash)
‘And a kick and a flick…’
The passage isn’t exactly explanatory and while we know the term has been around a long while, its origins remain vague.
The the 1922 novel Solomon in all his Glory, by Robert Lynd, an extract reads: “‘Why’, the man in the brown hat laughed at him, ‘I thought everybody knew Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit’.
“If you say ‘Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit’ – three times, just like that – first thing in the morning on the first of the month, even before you say your prayers, you’ll get a present before the end of the month.”
It is reasonable enough to put “white rabbits” down to British eccentricity. It’s a simple good luck charm, essentially. And it’s continued through the ages.
During WW2, it was a common belief among RAF bomber crews to say “white rabbits” upon waking up.
Those may claim the first to offer a “pinch, punch” should be exempt from retaliation, others believe the correct response is to respond with a “flick and a quick for being so quick”.
Apparently, the second half of the exchange originated in the West Country.


inews--2020-05-01--Plan ahead in case you have to choose your own 'social bubble' during lockdown

Plan ahead in case you have to choose your own 'social bubble ' during lockdown Be realistic : if you waste time pursuing people who clearly have cooler quarantine buddies in mind , you risk being left with no one at all One way of easing the coronavirus restrictions may involve us being allowed to socialise in exclusive “ bubbles ” of friends or family , up to a maximum of 10 people within two or three households ( Photo : Unsplash ) There are many terrible things about lockdown : fear , uncertainty , being forced to eat the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooking frenzy for the sixth night in a row .
But unlless you ’ re preternaturally self-sufficient , one of the worst things is not being able to see anyone beyond your household .
Thank God , then , for the “ social bubble ” proposal .
One way of easing the coronavirus restrictions may involve us being allowed to socialise in exclusive “ bubbles ” of friends or family , up to a maximum of 10 people within two or three households .
At first glance , it sounds ideal : a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much-missed parents , or with your sister and her three kids .
But , then ... what about your partner ’ s ( enormous ) family ?
And all of your friends ?
As the numbers mount , it dawns that this could be an impossible decision .
It turns out there is something worse than being unable to see your friends and family , and that is having to choose callously between them .
Still , if recent history has taught us anything , it is that it ’ s best to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s key to nail down the criteria you ’ d use to make such a decision , should the situation transpire .
Prioritising material advantages feels mercenary , but it may be the kindest option .
Most will get over being shunned in favour of someone with a garden .
But hearing it was their superior personality that swung it ?
You monster .
Whatever you do , remember that selections must be mutual .
Choosing a household who will probably also choose you is not only essential for coddling your ego @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you waste time pursuing people who clearly have cooler quarantine buddies in mind , you risk being left with no one at all .
And once you ’ ve chosen – what then ?
Get your request in early , but keep it breezy .
Your mates should not feel like they are signing a mortgage agreement .
Remember : every interaction from now on is a marketing opportunity .
Work on your Zoom background before taking their calls to leave them in no doubt of your plush interiors .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chaotic household just like them , but the promise of a slick , liberated new future .
Don ’ t burst the bubble .

There are many terrible things about lockdown: fear, uncertainty, being forced to eat the weird-tasting stew you bulk-made during a quarantine cooking frenzy for the sixth night in a row. But unlless you’re preternaturally self-sufficient, one of the worst things is not being able to see anyone beyond your household.
Thank God, then, for the “social bubble” proposal. One way of easing the coronavirus restrictions may involve us being allowed to socialise in exclusive “bubbles” of friends or family, up to a maximum of 10 people within two or three households.
At first glance, it sounds ideal: a chance to spend precious hours with your much-missed parents, or with your sister and her three kids. But, then … what about your partner’s (enormous) family? And all of your friends? As the numbers mount, it dawns that this could be an impossible decision. It turns out there is something worse than being unable to see your friends and family, and that is having to choose callously between them.
Still, if recent history has taught us anything, it is that it’s best to be prepared. This is why it’s key to nail down the criteria you’d use to make such a decision, should the situation transpire. Prioritising material advantages feels mercenary, but it may be the kindest option. Most will get over being shunned in favour of someone with a garden. But hearing it was their superior personality that swung it? You monster.
Read More Video calls are great, but I’m glad old-fashioned phoning has made a comeback
Whatever you do, remember that selections must be mutual. Choosing a household who will probably also choose you is not only essential for coddling your ego, but for logistical reasons, too. If you waste time pursuing people who clearly have cooler quarantine buddies in mind, you risk being left with no one at all.
And once you’ve chosen – what then? Get your request in early, but keep it breezy. Your mates should not feel like they are signing a mortgage agreement.
Remember: every interaction from now on is a marketing opportunity. Work on your Zoom background before taking their calls to leave them in no doubt of your plush interiors. In their heads, you are not a chaotic household just like them, but the promise of a slick, liberated new future. Don’t burst the bubble.


inews--2020-05-01--Amazon buys 100 million face masks for staff as Covid-19 costs expected to hit $4bn

Amazon buys 100 million face masks for staff as Covid-19 costs expected to hit $ 4bn Sales jumped by more than 25 % during the first three months of the year but Amazon said it would have to spend billions on Covid-19 costs Sales at Amazon jumped by more than a quarter during the first three months of the year but the internet giant warned it would have to spend $ 4bn on costs related to the coronavirus pandemic before the end of June .
Amazon said it had bought 100 million face masks for its staff as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thermometers , which were being used to conduct mandatory daily temperature checks for employees .
Jeff Bezos , the Amazon founder and chief executive officer , said : “ Providing for customers and protecting employees as this crisis continues for more months is going to take skill , humility , invention , and money .
If you ’ re a shareowner in Amazon , you may want to take a seat , because we ’ re not thinking small.
” Mr Bezos added that under normal circumstances , the company would expect to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more during the next quarter but that he expected to spend all of that money on “ COVID-related expenses getting products to customers and keeping employees safe ” .
First quarterly loss in five years The rise in costs would see the company posting its first quarterly loss in five years during the second three months of 2020 .
Despite the predicted spike in costs , Amazon has benefited hugely from the global lockdown since the start of the year .
Revenue for the first quarter rose 26 per cent to $ 75.5bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of people who streamed video on Amazon for the first time has almost doubled .
Sales at the company ’ s cloud computing division , Amazon Web Services , which has been a big profit driver for the firm , also increased by a third .
In March and April , the company announced plans to hire more than 175,000 people within its fulfillment and delivery departments and in its first quarter results Amazon said that recruitment drive had now been completed .
The internet firm said it had also increased pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hour in the US and Canada , £2 an hour in the UK , and €2 an hour in Europe .
Mr Bezos said : “ There is a lot of uncertainty in the world right now , and the best investment we can make is in the safety and well-being of our hundreds of thousands of employees .
I ’ m confident that our long-term oriented shareowners will understand and embrace our approach , and that in fact they would expect no less .
”

Sales at Amazon jumped by more than a quarter during the first three months of the year but the internet giant warned it would have to spend $4bn on costs related to the coronavirus pandemic before the end of June.
Amazon said it had bought 100 million face masks for its staff as well as more than 1,000 thermal cameras and 31,000 thermometers, which were being used to conduct mandatory daily temperature checks for employees.
Jeff Bezos, the Amazon founder and chief executive officer, said: “Providing for customers and protecting employees as this crisis continues for more months is going to take skill, humility, invention, and money. If you’re a shareowner in Amazon, you may want to take a seat, because we’re not thinking small.”
Mr Bezos added that under normal circumstances, the company would expect to make a profit of $4bn or more during the next quarter but that he expected to spend all of that money on “COVID-related expenses getting products to customers and keeping employees safe”.
First quarterly loss in five years
The rise in costs would see the company posting its first quarterly loss in five years during the second three months of 2020.
Despite the predicted spike in costs, Amazon has benefited hugely from the global lockdown since the start of the year. Revenue for the first quarter rose 26 per cent to $75.5bn, beating analyst expectations, while the amount of people who streamed video on Amazon for the first time has almost doubled. Sales at the company’s cloud computing division, Amazon Web Services, which has been a big profit driver for the firm, also increased by a third.
In March and April, the company announced plans to hire more than 175,000 people within its fulfillment and delivery departments and in its first quarter results Amazon said that recruitment drive had now been completed. The internet firm said it had also increased pay for hourly employees by $2 an hour in the US and Canada, £2 an hour in the UK, and €2 an hour in Europe.
Mr Bezos said: “There is a lot of uncertainty in the world right now, and the best investment we can make is in the safety and well-being of our hundreds of thousands of employees. I’m confident that our long-term oriented shareowners will understand and embrace our approach, and that in fact they would expect no less.”


inews--2020-05-01--How to book a coronavirus test if you're a key worker: Who's eligible for testing, and where test ce

How to book a coronavirus test if you're a key worker: Who's eligible for testing, and where test centres are

How to book a coronavirus test if you 're a key worker : Who 's eligible for testing , and where test centres are 'We are making it easier , faster and simpler for any essential worker in England who needs a test to get a test' The Government 's coronavirus testing page at 10:53am on 24/04/2020 ( Photo : Screenshot ) Who is eligible for the testing ?
How can I apply for testing ?
Where will I be tested and will I have to drive ?
What does the test involve ?
After you drive to the testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicle for the duration of the visit .
You will be asked whether you would like to test yourself or whether you would like a swabbing assistant administrator to carry it out .
How long do I have to wait for the results ?
What about employers of key workers ?
Are there plans to expand testing even more ?
The Government wants to boost the number of drive-through testing sites , with plans to have 50 open by the end of April .
The aim is to ensure that most people will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes to get tested .

The Government has expanded testing to millions of key workers and the people they live with if they are showing symptoms of Covid-19.
The DHSC says testing key workers would allow them to return to work if their results were negative.
Essential workers and those aged 65 or over are among those who can apply for and book a test online if they are experiencing symptoms.
Testing can be carried out at ‘drive-thru’ sites or via self-sampling kits that are posted out and returned.
Here is everything you need to know about testing for key workers:
Who is eligible for the testing?
People are eligible to apply for a test if they are experiencing symptoms and are an essential worker, aged 65 or over, or cannot work from home – or if they live with someone in any of those three categories.
The first group of designated key workers includes NHS and social care staff, police officers, teachers, social workers, undertakers, journalists, supermarket workers and those who work in food production.
Firefighters, local and national government staff and delivery drivers are also on the list.
People who live in the same household as key workers, and show symptoms, can also be tested.
Mr Hancock said: “We are making it easier, faster and simpler for any essential worker in England who needs a test to get a test.”
The scheme is part of the test, track and trace strategy to eventually ease lockdown measures.
Testing patients suspected to have the virus will remain the priority, though.
How can I apply for testing?
To apply for a test, you can enter your details on the gov.uk/coronavirus website.
You should receive an email or text on the same day, inviting you to book a test on the same website.
There is no charge for testing.
People should aim to get tested within three days of displaying the key coronavirus symptoms of a new continuous cough or a high temperature. This is when testing is most effective, according to the Government.
Where will I be tested and will I have to drive?
There are currently two options for where you can be tested.
You can choose between asking to be sent a home test kit or you can book an appointment at one of more than 30 regional drive-through test sites, some of which have been set up in car parks and at airports.
The introduction of home testing kits follows criticism that some people will not be able to drive to the test sites. Amazon will deliver the kits within 24 hours and Royal Mail will collect them the next day.
Are home test kits in short supply?
Initially the number of home kits will be limited, so the Government is encouraging people to attend one of the drive-through sites if possible.
The availability of each testing option will gradually increase. Slots are released at 8am every day.
What does the test involve?
Testing for coronavirus involves taking a swab of your nose and the back of your throat.
After you drive to the testing site, you should remain in your vehicle for the duration of the visit. You will be asked whether you would like to test yourself or whether you would like a swabbing assistant administrator to carry it out.
If you have ordered the home kit, you can do it yourself.
How long do I have to wait for the results?
Once you have been tested, the sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Three new “Lighthouse Labs”, based in Milton Keynes, Glasgow and Alderley Park in Cheshire, have been set up in three weeks to increase testing capacity.
Results from drive-through test sites should be sent out by text within 48 hours but it could take up to five days. For home testing kits, results should be available within 72 hours from when the sample is collected.
People will be given advice on any next steps that need to be taken after receiving their results.
What about employers of key workers?
Essential workers who are self-isolating can also be registered and referred for coronavirus testing by their employer.
Employers need to obtain a login for the referrals. They should email portalservicedesk@dhsc.gov.uk with two email addresses that will be used to load essential worker contact details into the employer referral portal. Once the employer’s details have been verified, they will be sent two login credentials for the portal.
Then, essential workers who have been referred will receive a text with a unique invitation code to book a test for themselves or their household members at one of the regional sites.
Are there plans to expand testing even more?
The Government wants to boost the number of drive-through testing sites, with plans to have 50 open by the end of April. The aim is to ensure that most people will not have to drive more than 45 minutes to get tested.
A network of new mobile testing units designed by Army engineers is being set up to travel to care homes, police stations and prisons where there is demand for testing.
The units can be “easily set up in under 20 minutes”, according to the Government.
Packages of satellite test kits will also be sent directly to care homes across England to enable testing of symptomatic residents.


inews--2020-05-01--Floods earlier this year have caused a compost shortage in coronavirus lockdown

Floods earlier this year have caused a compost shortage in coronavirus lockdown Supply problems hit just as demand for compost soars during lockdown The floods that swept through Britain this year have led to significant shortages of compost , which has been compounded by distribution problems caused by Covid-19 , experts say .
Online garden retailers are struggling to get hold of compost , meaning many brands are out of stock or come with a delivery time of three weeks or more .
As a result , the price of compost on sites such as Amazon and eBay has rocketed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £5 at the local retailer on sale for £18 or more .
Part of supply shortage is likely to be the result of increased demand as lockdown encourages people to spend more time in their gardens .
The waste company Veolia , for example , has had a 30 per cent increase in demand for its ProGrow compost , which it makes from garden waste .
But the flooding has disrupted the supply chain , meaning there is less compost ready to be sold than usual , according to Richard Kirkman , Veolia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Generally across the country there was a lot of wet weather , and that tends to damage some of the compost stocks in the country , ” he told i .
“ When it ’ s very wet it doesn ’ t dry out for a long time because of the way it ’ s stored.
” Wet weather soaked swathes of the UK earlier this year ( Photo : OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty ) The problem is compounded by severe disruption to the delivery chain due to Covid-19 , with drivers either unavailable or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The supply chain is more stressed so it takes a little bit longer for the delivery to happen , ” Mr Kirkman said .
With compost shortages and more time to spend in the garden , campaigners say now is a good time to make your own .
Friends of the Earth ’ s senior campaigner , Paul de Zylva , says , for those people who have a garden but have never got round to making their own compost , now is a great time to bite the bullet and give it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a good time to start making your own compost from vegetable peelings , fruit waste , and grass and garden clippings , ” he said .
Mr de Zylva is part of a wide-ranging campaign to ban the sale of peat-based compost , which is made by destroying peat bogs that are essential for the environment .
“ It has been suggested that peat-based compost should come with a health warning , like cigarettes , ” said Craig Bennett , chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts .
“ Digging peat bogs up and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for people to use in their gardens is just as bad as cutting down rainforest timber to make chopsticks .
It ’ s scandalous that we ’ re still selling peat-based compost in 2020 .
”

The floods that swept through Britain this year have led to significant shortages of compost, which has been compounded by distribution problems caused by Covid-19, experts say.
Online garden retailers are struggling to get hold of compost, meaning many brands are out of stock or come with a delivery time of three weeks or more.
As a result, the price of compost on sites such as Amazon and eBay has rocketed, with 20l bags that normally cost £5 at the local retailer on sale for £18 or more.
Higher demand
Part of supply shortage is likely to be the result of increased demand as lockdown encourages people to spend more time in their gardens.
The waste company Veolia, for example, has had a 30 per cent increase in demand for its ProGrow compost, which it makes from garden waste.
Wet weather
But the flooding has disrupted the supply chain, meaning there is less compost ready to be sold than usual, according to Richard Kirkman, Veolia’s head of innovation.
“Generally across the country there was a lot of wet weather, and that tends to damage some of the compost stocks in the country,” he told i. “When it’s very wet it doesn’t dry out for a long time because of the way it’s stored.”
Delivery disruptions
The problem is compounded by severe disruption to the delivery chain due to Covid-19, with drivers either unavailable or redeployed to high priority jobs.
“The supply chain is more stressed so it takes a little bit longer for the delivery to happen,” Mr Kirkman said.
Make your own
With compost shortages and more time to spend in the garden, campaigners say now is a good time to make your own. Friends of the Earth’s senior campaigner, Paul de Zylva, says, for those people who have a garden but have never got round to making their own compost, now is a great time to bite the bullet and give it a go.
“This could be a good time to start making your own compost from vegetable peelings, fruit waste, and grass and garden clippings,” he said.
Ditch peat
Mr de Zylva is part of a wide-ranging campaign to ban the sale of peat-based compost, which is made by destroying peat bogs that are essential for the environment.
“It has been suggested that peat-based compost should come with a health warning, like cigarettes,” said Craig Bennett, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts. “Digging peat bogs up and wrapping them in plastics to flog cheap for people to use in their gardens is just as bad as cutting down rainforest timber to make chopsticks. It’s scandalous that we’re still selling peat-based compost in 2020.”
Peat bogs are important wildlife habits and absorb huge amounts of CO2, which is released into the atmosphere when they are dug up. They also protect areas against flooding.


inews--2020-05-01--Coronavirus testing: Some cheeky moving of the goalposts by Matt Hancock and Government needs to spe

Coronavirus testing: Some cheeky moving of the goalposts by Matt Hancock and Government needs to spell out a clear strategy

Coronavirus testing : Some cheeky moving of the goalposts by Matt Hancock and Government needs to spell out a clear strategy These days a minister can hardly finish speaking before the first messages from i readers start to drop into my inbox Gone are the days when most readers ’ letters arrived by post , and the editor ’ s secretary would have to wear crampons to reach their desk .
These days a minister can hardly finish speaking before the first messages from i readers start to drop into my inbox .
As Health Secretary Matt Hancock stood at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rocket arrived , fired from Exmouth by Malcolm McCoskery .
“ With regard to what the Government is now including in its testing numbers for Covid-19 , ” writes Malcolm , “ the old phrase , ‘ Lies , damned lies and statistics ’ , comes to mind.
” There has been some cheeky moving of goalposts , it ’ s true .
The huge increase in testing seen this week – from 37,000 on Monday to 122,000 on Thursday – is partly due to increasing lab capacity ( three “ mega labs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glasgow ) and partly ramping up sample collecting ( more drive-through sites and home kits ) .
Drive-in testing stations have been set up across the UK ( Photo : OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty ) In a bid to propel the Government past Mr Hancock ’ s daily target of 100,000 tests , a cunning plan was devised in the Department of Health and Social Care , signed off by its permanent secretary Sir Chris Wormald : start counting home test kits in the official total when they are sent out , and not when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ laboratories .
It is hard not to marvel .
Ultimately , such quibbling is a distraction : the target has served to galvanise ministers , health officials and private sector partners .
To what end , though , remains a little fuzzy .
Mass testing and contact tracing can be the key to the UK escaping lockdown , as we report .
But we need to be increasing testing with that clear purpose in mind , and plenty of health chiefs feel the Government has yet to spell out a clear strategy .

Gone are the days when most readers’ letters arrived by post, and the editor’s secretary would have to wear crampons to reach their desk.
These days a minister can hardly finish speaking before the first messages from i readers start to drop into my inbox.
As Health Secretary Matt Hancock stood at his podium in Downing Street, a rocket arrived, fired from Exmouth by Malcolm McCoskery. “With regard to what the Government is now including in its testing numbers for Covid-19,” writes Malcolm, “the old phrase, ‘Lies, damned lies and statistics’, comes to mind.”
There has been some cheeky moving of goalposts, it’s true. The huge increase in testing seen this week – from 37,000 on Monday to 122,000 on Thursday – is partly due to increasing lab capacity (three “mega labs” in Cheshire, Milton Keynes and Glasgow) and partly ramping up sample collecting (more drive-through sites and home kits).
In a bid to propel the Government past Mr Hancock’s daily target of 100,000 tests, a cunning plan was devised in the Department of Health and Social Care, signed off by its permanent secretary Sir Chris Wormald: start counting home test kits in the official total when they are sent out, and not when they are sent back and processed in laboratories. It is hard not to marvel.
Ultimately, such quibbling is a distraction: the target has served to galvanise ministers, health officials and private sector partners. To what end, though, remains a little fuzzy.
Mass testing and contact tracing can be the key to the UK escaping lockdown, as we report. But we need to be increasing testing with that clear purpose in mind, and plenty of health chiefs feel the Government has yet to spell out a clear strategy.
Twitter: @olyduff


inews--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: Zimbabwe's finance minister pleads for help with country on 'brink of collapse'

Coronavirus : Zimbabwe 's finance minister pleads for help with country on 'brink of collapse' President Emmerson Mnangagwa ’ s government also needs $ 200m ( £159m ) to help fight the Covid-19 pandemic , the letter said Zimbabwe is on the “ brink of collapse ” , according to a leaked letter in which the country ’ s finance minister pleads for international help .
Mthuli Ncube warned that without outside assistance “ many lives will be lost ” , adding that if the state collapsed , its failure could have a domino effect on neighbouring countries .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bank , the International Monetary Fund , and the African Development Bank ( of which he is vice president ) asked for the rescheduling or cancellation of all Zimbabwe ’ s foreign debts .
President Emmerson Mnangagwa ’ s government also needs $ 200m ( £159m ) to help fight the Covid-19 pandemic , the letter said .
Mr Ncube claimed that without the money they would have no choice but to revert to printing money , risking a return to hyperinflation and the crash of the local currency .
The letter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authoritative UK-based website Africa Confidential , stated : “ Zimbabwe ’ s economy could contract by 15 to 20 per cent during 2020 , with very serious social consequences .
Already 8.5 million Zimbabweans ( half the population ) are food insecure.
” Mr Ncube warned that the impact of coronavirus threatened the whole country as well as security in neighbouring nations .
In return for help he promised to instigate financial reforms and crack down on corruption .
Mounting concern about Zimbabwe is believed to be why South African President Cyril Ramaphosa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be lifted .
The letter , dated 2 April , came shortly after reports of a coup plot against President Mnangagwa were circulating , Africa Confidential reported .
It cited a security source saying the authorities had delayed the lockdown in the capital Harare for fear that plotters could exploit conditions to move against the president and his supporters .
Officially Zimbabwe has 40 recorded cases of coronavirus of which six recovered and four died .
Zimbabwe ’ s health sector has been crippled since last year after months of strikes over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that patients were dying due to lack of medical supplies .
Two weeks ago , the Government was taken to court over its failure to provide doctors working on the frontline of the Covid-19 pandemic with masks .

Zimbabwe is on the “brink of collapse”, according to a leaked letter in which the country’s finance minister pleads for international help.
Mthuli Ncube warned that without outside assistance “many lives will be lost”, adding that if the state collapsed, its failure could have a domino effect on neighbouring countries. Mr Ncube’s letter to the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the African Development Bank (of which he is vice president) asked for the rescheduling or cancellation of all Zimbabwe’s foreign debts.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government also needs $200m (£159m) to help fight the Covid-19 pandemic, the letter said. Mr Ncube claimed that without the money they would have no choice but to revert to printing money, risking a return to hyperinflation and the crash of the local currency.
The letter, details of which were released by the authoritative UK-based website Africa Confidential, stated: “Zimbabwe’s economy could contract by 15 to 20 per cent during 2020, with very serious social consequences. Already 8.5 million Zimbabweans (half the population) are food insecure.”
Coronavirus threatens the country
Mr Ncube warned that the impact of coronavirus threatened the whole country as well as security in neighbouring nations. In return for help he promised to instigate financial reforms and crack down on corruption. Mounting concern about Zimbabwe is believed to be why South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called for international sanctions against the country to be lifted.
The letter, dated 2 April, came shortly after reports of a coup plot against President Mnangagwa were circulating, Africa Confidential reported. It cited a security source saying the authorities had delayed the lockdown in the capital Harare for fear that plotters could exploit conditions to move against the president and his supporters.
Officially Zimbabwe has 40 recorded cases of coronavirus of which six recovered and four died. Zimbabwe’s health sector has been crippled since last year after months of strikes over poor working conditions, with doctors claiming that patients were dying due to lack of medical supplies. Two weeks ago, the Government was taken to court over its failure to provide doctors working on the frontline of the Covid-19 pandemic with masks.


inews--2020-05-01--Coronavirus lockdown acts of kindness: From grandparent teachers to volunteers who are testing a vac

Coronavirus lockdown acts of kindness: From grandparent teachers to volunteers who are testing a vaccine, readers share thank yous

Coronavirus lockdown acts of kindness : From grandparent teachers to volunteers who are testing a vaccine , readers share thank yous As part of a new series , we share poignant letters from people who wish to express their gratitude to our unsung lockdown heroes A great lesson to us all ... My darling wife Moira has been in the care of the wonderful Abbotsford care home in Ardrossan for the past two years , suffering from advanced dementia .
The level of care and love shown by each member of the team to all their residents is both humbling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown , I have enjoyed several sessions of FaceTime with my wife , which in a small way eases the constant pain of separation .
Thank you , Abbotsford , for all you are doing to bring everybody there out of this darkness into the light .
Going the extra mile – and more I would like to thank Teresa and Michelle and the staff of Landrake Stores and Post Office for going several extra miles to ensure the residents of our community have received food when they need it – and daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These girls are always smiling , when like so many people , they have their own domestic difficulties .
You are the guardian angels of Landrake , and you do us all proud .
Bless you all .
Keeping it in the family I would like to extend a huge Thank You to Plymouth where our daughter and one of our granddaughters are on the front line at the same hospice .
Our other granddaughter also works in a hospice as a carer , sharing the same dangers as our NHS angels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young aged two and three – talk about living on the edge .
Another huge Thank You goes to Hampshire where our daughter-in-law is helping with the schooling of key worker ’ s children .
You only realise how close you are to heartache when you can ’ t give them all a big hug .
The parent who is top of the class Thank you to Sarah Gray Recall the fruits of their labour Forgotten heroes that we rely on Our 35-year-old son lives within the Pontesbury Project , a small local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for those with complex special needs .
All of the residents need 24-hour care to help them manage their physical and emotional needs .
We as a family feel that learning and physical disabilities services are often a forgotten community , with resources cut and day centre support at the back of the queue for funding , support and training .
The staff at the project and our son ’ s friends and neighbours do their utmost to make sure he and the other residents are free from worry and are cared for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted to say publicly that it has been very humbling to know that everybody who works within the Project puts their residents first .
Their response in these strange times has been very uplifting and reassuring .
At the heart of our community A hard job , but someone does it Our very own set of helpers Going solo , but keeping going Thank you to my wee sister Denise Keenan in Ayr who is entirely on her own in this lockdown – apart from her two dogs .
She is adhering to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ income as she is a hairdresser .
Hang on in there sis.Also , her daughter Barbara Keenan who is working with young people who face severe physical , mental and emotional life challenges .
And to my niece , Jessica Park , who works in home care for the elderly and those with serious health issues .
Love you all – you are my heroes .
To those who put others first Government advertising calling on people to respect the lockdown ( Photo : NewsWorks ) I would like to express my thanks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covering the Coronavirus outbreak but particularly those who have been in front of cameras during the regular bulletins .
They have had the unenviable task of reporting accurately just how devastating the outbreak has been , in a calm , measured manner , without generating panic and hysteria while holding the Government to account .
I believe such bulletins were largely responsible for the effectiveness of the “ Stay at Home ” message .
They now face the difficult task of persuading us to carry on with the restrictions until they can safely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a smile We would like to thank the businesses that have remained open here in Tintagel– our local branch of Boots , the Tintagel Premier food shop , the Tintagel Spar and the Hardware shop.The food shops have been extremely busy delivering to those who have to self-isolate and managed to keep a very good stock of supplies ; and also serving those of us who can go out , keeping a strict control over distancing.The chemist has been amazing too , keeping their cool in the early days before lockdown when visitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand sanitiser ; and now adjusting their opening times to make life a little easier .
Not to mention the local hardware shop , who stock an incredible number of items and have even sourced some compost for the many keen gardeners .
All the shops really know the meaning of “ service with a smile ” , when they must be tired and just as anxious as the rest of us .
Thanks as well to the local cafes , all providing a sterling service with take-aways of many kinds .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blessed .
So proud of my grandparents Caring for those who feel lost We bank on you being at work I would like to thank the many social workers , family support workers and all others working in child protection at a time when so many already vulnerable children are at an increased risk of harm.With visits interrupted , a reduction in the contact children have with other professionals and an increase in domestic abuse and financial hardship , to name but a few factors making a difficult job harder , they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most vulnerable in our neighbourhoods .

A great lesson to us all…
Heartfelt thanks to my mum (aka Grandma) and my lovely cousin Frankie for helping teach our children during lockdown, enabling my husband and I to balance work, parenting and home-schooling. You’re both awesome and we’re finding your lessons on the history of the NHS and Darwin’s theory of evolution inspiring and incredibly apt.
Katherine Downing
Cheshire
Caring attitude is so crucial
My darling wife Moira has been in the care of the wonderful Abbotsford care home in Ardrossan for the past two years, suffering from advanced dementia. The level of care and love shown by each member of the team to all their residents is both humbling and awe-inspiring. Recently, despite the lockdown, I have enjoyed several sessions of FaceTime with my wife, which in a small way eases the constant pain of separation. Thank you, Abbotsford, for all you are doing to bring everybody there out of this darkness into the light.
Tom Pearson
Ayrshire
Going the extra mile – and more
I would like to thank Teresa and Michelle and the staff of Landrake Stores and Post Office for going several extra miles to ensure the residents of our community have received food when they need it – and daily deliveries for those who are self isolating. These girls are always smiling, when like so many people, they have their own domestic difficulties. You are the guardian angels of Landrake, and you do us all proud. Bless you all.
Thelma Broach
Landrake, Cornwall
Brave volunteer for new vaccine
I would like to thank my son-in-law Nathan Franks. He has been travelling from his home in Oxfordshire to Cardiff to set up the catering facilities for the Dragon’s Heart hospital and has now become a volunteer for the vaccine trials at Oxford University. Thanks – we are all proud of you.
John Simlett
Oxford
Keeping it in the family
I would like to extend a huge Thank You to Plymouth where our daughter and one of our granddaughters are on the front line at the same hospice. Our other granddaughter also works in a hospice as a carer, sharing the same dangers as our NHS angels. Both granddaughters are mums with boys young aged two and three – talk about living on the edge. Another huge Thank You goes to Hampshire where our daughter-in-law is helping with the schooling of key worker’s children. You only realise how close you are to heartache when you can’t give them all a big hug.
Eric Tose
Devon
The parent who is top of the class
I would like to thank the parents of my lovely class from reception in West Sussex. They have taken home-schooling on board with so much enthusiasm and have participated in the challenges and daily live lessons.
One parent in particular, Sarah Gray, organised a collection of pictures, poems and handprints from all 30 children and put the collection into a beautiful book as a keepsake for me. I was so touched and overwhelmed by their kindness in this very difficult time.
Mrs Jackie Fowler
West Sussex
Recall the fruits of their labour
A big thank you to all the staff at Honeycomb Nisa Supermarket & News and Thorpe Bay Fruits who have worked hard to supply and look after the local community on a daily basis. I hope people remember their kindness and support them after this is all over.
Claire Brett-Pitt
Thorpe Bay, Essex
Keeping our kids connected
A big thank you to all the staff from Blessed George Napier School in Banbury, Oxfordshire, where I am a teacher. Thank you to the admin staff, ancillary staff, site managers, pastoral, teaching assistants, classroom teachers, the parents and the pupils and everyone involved in the daily job of keeping everyone connected, for being lockdown heroes. A huge shout out to you all for keeping families connected. You are all diamonds.s
Elizabeth Burak
Oxon
Forgotten heroes that we rely on
Our 35-year-old son lives within the Pontesbury Project, a small local organisation in Shropshire that provides supported living for those with complex special needs. All of the residents need 24-hour care to help them manage their physical and emotional needs. We as a family feel that learning and physical disabilities services are often a forgotten community, with resources cut and day centre support at the back of the queue for funding, support and training. The staff at the project and our son’s friends and neighbours do their utmost to make sure he and the other residents are free from worry and are cared for, respected and loved. We just wanted to say publicly that it has been very humbling to know that everybody who works within the Project puts their residents first. Their response in these strange times has been very uplifting and reassuring.
Our family will be forever grateful to you all.
Cynthia Phillips
Shrewsbury, Shropshire
Delivering a great service
I would like to thank our local butchers, Dopsons of Crowthorne. They have been working long hours to serve the local community and get deliveries out via volunteer drivers.
In the course of a month they have redesigned their entire method of operation so it is now telephone ordering and payment and “knock and collect” at the shop, to make everything more pleasant and safer for their customers and staff. All this while keeping up the usual high standards of everything they sell.
Thank you to Nigel, Catherine, Gareth, Sam and Steve – we really appreciate everything you are doing.
Laura Duxbury
Berkshire
People need their papers
A huge thank you to my son Jon and all his staff at Luke’s News in Rustington, West Sussex. They have taken on nearly 200 new customers since the lockdown started and are delivering papers, magazines and food daily.
The paper boys and girls are keeping their distance while waiting for their rounds and the adults are delivering the food. Well done all of you.
Lesley Mankelow
West Sussex
At the heart of our community
When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Certainly the villagers of Stainton in Cumbria have had our lives made a lot less tough by the incredible response of two family-owned businesses.
They have been our frontline in ensuring support is available to those who need it. As a pub and hotel they were both excellent in their traditional pre-lockdown roles. But the Jakeman and Langley families have stepped up. They are now providing us with a choice of take-away meals.
The pub has additionally expanded their Post Office into a shopping mecca of fresh produce. And it doesn’t end there. They have both offered to make trips into town on behalf of those who need support or are not able to make the journey. Thank you Hilary and family at the Kings Arms, thank you Richard and family at the Brantwood Hotel.
Michael Fordham
Penrith
A hard job, but someone does it
Please could you give a loud shout-out to a group of people who do a job which most of us don’t want to think about, far less do, and who often get overlooked. I’m referring to undertakers.
I am now a retired Church of Scotland minister, but while I was working I witnessed the infinite care, sensitivity and compassion with which all the staff in our local offices dealt with bereaved families, and with the deceased. Daily they deal with situations which must be incredibly emotionally draining, but they deal with each family with utmost care. Well done and thank you.
Catriona Ogilvie
Dollar, Clackmannanshire
Zoom quiz was a class online act
A massive thank you to my school parent friends Alex and Jo who have organised online zoom quizzes, bingo and a class song for my daughter’s class. This has given her a huge boost to see all her class friends together.
They really loved chatting and interacting in this way, it was lovely to see. Really well done guys – such a nice thing to do. Big thank you from all the fragile C4 Boughton parents.
Jo Blakesley, Northampton
Our very own set of helpers
We would like to say a big thank you to two of the most caring and helpful people on the planet, Jason and Kim. Thank you so much for getting our supplies – and flowers – each week and for always being there. We love you.
Bill & Wendy Dadds
Somerset
Going solo, but keeping going
Thank you to my wee sister Denise Keenan in Ayr who is entirely on her own in this lockdown – apart from her two dogs. She is adhering to the rules strictly although she has zero income as she is a hairdresser. Hang on in there sis.
Also, her daughter Barbara Keenan who is working with young people who face severe physical, mental and emotional life challenges. And to my niece, Jessica Park, who works in home care for the elderly and those with serious health issues. Love you all – you are my heroes.
Aileen Park
Edinburgh
A shining star in the village
Sally has single-handedly kept the village green newsagents open from 6am every morning, seven-days a week, since lockdown while probably on the minimum wage. For many, newspapers remain an important source of information in these difficult times. She’s a star.
Mr and Mrs Smith
Bearsted, Maidstone
To those who put others first
I would like to say a huge thank you to our village store in Goldsithney, near Penzance, Cornwall. Jo, Neil and Tamsin Polglase and Jack Chinn have been wonderful. They have worked so hard at a great risk to their own wellbeing. Also the paper girl (plus her mum) who delivers on a Saturday, making sure that everyone is in touch with the news.
Sally Rogers
Cornwall
Spreading the news in a crisis
I would like to express my thanks to all the news reporters who are covering the Coronavirus outbreak but particularly those who have been in front of cameras during the regular bulletins. They have had the unenviable task of reporting accurately just how devastating the outbreak has been, in a calm, measured manner, without generating panic and hysteria while holding the Government to account. I believe such bulletins were largely responsible for the effectiveness of the “Stay at Home” message. They now face the difficult task of persuading us to carry on with the restrictions until they can safely be lifted.
Barbara Harrington-Tucker
Nottingham
For thinking inside the box
As a vulnerable “shielded” person, I am fortunate to receive a regular food box from the government. This contains a variety of invaluable commodities – from pasta and pesto to fresh fruit and loo rolls.
It is clear that a great deal of very careful thought has gone into the contents of these boxes. So this letter is to say thank you to those persons who have taken the trouble to sit down and consider this so thoroughly
and effectively.
Paul Morris
Cornwall
So much service with a smile
We would like to thank the businesses that have remained open here in Tintagel– our local branch of Boots, the Tintagel Premier food shop, the Tintagel Spar and the Hardware shop.
The food shops have been extremely busy delivering to those who have to self-isolate and managed to keep a very good stock of supplies; and also serving those of us who can go out, keeping a strict control over distancing.
The chemist has been amazing too, keeping their cool in the early days before lockdown when visitors couldn’t believe they had no hand sanitiser; and now adjusting their opening times to make life a little easier. Not to mention the local hardware shop, who stock an incredible number of items and have even sourced some compost for the many keen gardeners. All the shops really know the meaning of “service with a smile”, when they must be tired and just as anxious as the rest of us. Thanks as well to the local cafes, all providing a sterling service with take-aways of many kinds. We are very lucky and consider ourselves well blessed.
A proud local
Tintagel
So proud of my grandparents
My daughter Lexi would like to say thank you to her grandparents who she’s really missed seeing. They have both been busy working throughout the lockdown phase and have not seen any of their grandchildren. She would like to say how very proud she is of them and looks forward to giving them a big hug soon!
Lexi (age 9)
Northampton
Caring for those who feel lost
Thank you to all the lovely, loyal Samaritans who continue to provide a 24-hour service to our callers. Travelling to 200 branches nationwide to answer calls and emails, offering a listening ear to those in distress.
Picking up extra duties, arriving to pick up a phone in the middle of the night – you are all amazing. I promise to keep my fellow Croydon Samaritanss in coffee and biscuits.
Marion Watson
Croydon
We bank on you being at work
A massive thank you to my mum in the financial sector and my sister’s boyfriend, Bryce, for continuing their work as keyworkers. We’re so proud of everything they are doing. And all of those in banks and building societies – especially the team at Nationwide in Crewe – who are working hard answering calls from across the country, providing support and advice and making sure people can still access their money.
Philippa Baker
Cheshire
Protecting the vulnerable
I would like to thank the many social workers, family support workers and all others working in child protection at a time when so many already vulnerable children are at an increased risk of harm.
With visits interrupted, a reduction in the contact children have with other professionals and an increase in domestic abuse and financial hardship, to name but a few factors making a difficult job harder, they are working to support and protect some of the most vulnerable in our neighbourhoods.
Meredith Major
Bedford
Please let us know who you would like to say thank you to. Email us at i@ writing ‘iweekend thank you’ in the subject box.


inews--2020-05-01--NHS launches inquiry into how senior procurement official was able to sell PPE through private firm

NHS launches inquiry into how senior procurement official was able to sell PPE through private firm David Singleton , who was working at London 's Nightingale Hospital , launched the business two weeks ago to trade in visors , masks and gowns The NHS has launched an inquiry into allegations that a senior official responsible for procurement set up a business to profit from the private sale of huge quantities of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) .
David Singleton , 42 , who has been working in London 's Nightingale Hospital , launched the business two weeks ago to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
His company , Sure Stock , marketed PPE to private sector and NHS clients , and offered large amounts of PPE and hygiene products for sale , including protective face shields , or “ smart visors ” , which cost £19,500 for minimum orders of 10,000 units .
The website made no reference to Mr Singleton or his procurement role .
But in a phone call with an undercover reporter from the Guardian posing as a potential client , Mr Singleton confirmed he was running the business .
He said he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between suppliers and buyers of PPE .
He also reportedly told the undercover reporter that he was “ currently an NHS employee ” but said his role did not involve buying “ any products ” .
“ I deliver services , ” he said .
“ So none of the suppliers that I ’ m working with do I have any interactions with during my day job.
” According to his LinkedIn profile , which he deleted shortly after the newspaper approached him , Mr Singleton is a head of procurement for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a large commissioning support unit ( CSU ) that covers the capital ’ s north and east and surrounding areas .
When asked to comment , Mr Singleton said he disclosed his business to superiors in the NHS , in accordance with the rules , and was told there was “ unlikely to be a conflict ” .
However , the NHS has launched an investigation , which is being conducted by his employer , the NHS north and east London CSU .
Asked whether he was exploiting his NHS expertise and contacts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he was not “ directly involved ” in responding to the PPE shortage in the NHS “ as my role does not involve purchasing or procuring of these products ” .
A NHS spokesperson said : `` We take any potential conflicts of interest extremely seriously and as soon we became aware of these allegations an internal investigation was started . ''
i emailed Mr Singleton for comment but received no response .
It is understood he may have already resigned from his NHS role .

The NHS has launched an inquiry into allegations that a senior official responsible for procurement set up a business to profit from the private sale of huge quantities of personal protective equipment (PPE).
David Singleton, 42, who has been working in London’s Nightingale Hospital, launched the business two weeks ago to trade in visors, masks and gowns. His company, Sure Stock, marketed PPE to private sector and NHS clients, and offered large amounts of PPE and hygiene products for sale, including protective face shields, or “smart visors”, which cost £19,500 for minimum orders of 10,000 units.
The website made no reference to Mr Singleton or his procurement role. But in a phone call with an undercover reporter from the Guardian posing as a potential client, Mr Singleton confirmed he was running the business. He said he was trading as a “sales agent” between suppliers and buyers of PPE.
He also reportedly told the undercover reporter that he was “currently an NHS employee” but said his role did not involve buying “any products”. “I deliver services,” he said. “So none of the suppliers that I’m working with do I have any interactions with during my day job.”
Conflict of interest?
According to his LinkedIn profile, which he deleted shortly after the newspaper approached him, Mr Singleton is a head of procurement for the NHS in London. He works within a large commissioning support unit (CSU) that covers the capital’s north and east and surrounding areas.
When asked to comment, Mr Singleton said he disclosed his business to superiors in the NHS, in accordance with the rules, and was told there was “unlikely to be a conflict”. However, the NHS has launched an investigation, which is being conducted by his employer, the NHS north and east London CSU.
Asked whether he was exploiting his NHS expertise and contacts, Mr Singleton said in a statement that he was not “directly involved” in responding to the PPE shortage in the NHS “as my role does not involve purchasing or procuring of these products”.
A NHS spokesperson said: “We take any potential conflicts of interest extremely seriously and as soon we became aware of these allegations an internal investigation was started.”
i emailed Mr Singleton for comment but received no response. It is understood he may have already resigned from his NHS role.


inews--2020-05-01--LOVE artwork: Fresh counterclaims filed in legal battle over who owns Robert Indiana's famous work

LOVE artwork : Fresh counterclaims filed in legal battle over who owns Robert Indiana 's famous work The late artist , Robert Indiana , made very little profit from sales of the iconic pop artwork The LOVE image has been repoduced extensively over the years but made little money for its creator , Robert Indiana ( Photo : Getty ) It comprises just four letters but the famous LOVE artwork by Robert Indiana caused the late artist no end of grief and remains at the centre of a protracted legal case .
A legal dispute over the rights to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Morgan Art Foundation in May 2018 , just a day before the artist died .
Now , Michael McKenzie , the founder of the New York publishing firm American Image Art and defendant in that case has filed fresh counterclaims accusing the Morgan of “ one of the most massive art frauds in history ” .
In this $ 150m ( £120m ) legal dispute Mr McKenzie claims in a letter that LOVE has been in the public domain since its creation in 1964 .
He added that the Morgan has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 1,000 sculptures with a total retail value of “ well above $ 100m ” ( £80m ) .
It also claims that a further one million items worth “ at least $ 50m ( £40m ) in retails sales '' have been fraudulently licensed .
Mr McKenzie is also seeking to cancel two trademarks for the design and reproduction of LOVE registered by the Morgan alleging they were “ obtained by fraud , and are invalid ” .
He argues that : “ All intellectual property rights were abandoned by Indiana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no doubt that LOVE is in the public domain.
” Mr Indiana first created the design for LOVE , which sees the four letters arranged in a square with the “ O ” tilting to the right , in 1964 .
According to Mr McKenzie , “ no copyright [ was ] served ” .
He also notes that Mr Indiana argued against the use of a copyright on a 1966 LOVE poster as Mr McKenzie claims the artist “ didn ’ t like the way a copyright symbol looked on his art @ @ @ @ @ @ @ artwork has been extensively reproduced over the years although the artist , who was associated with the pop art movement , made little profit from sales in his lifetime .
The first legal dispute lodged by the Morgan accuses Mr Indiana ’ s former caretaker , Jamie Thomas , of isolating the artist in his later years to allow McKenzie to forge and sell multiple works falsely attributed to Indiana worth at least $ 30m .
In an interview with the Art Newspaper in 2012 the artist reflected : “ LOVE cinched my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the map .
But , it has also caused me grief and unhappiness , rip-offs and endless unpleasantness .
”

It comprises just four letters but the famous LOVE artwork by Robert Indiana caused the late artist no end of grief and remains at the centre of a protracted legal case.
A legal dispute over the rights to the American artist’s works was first filed by the Morgan Art Foundation in May 2018, just a day before the artist died.
Now, Michael McKenzie, the founder of the New York publishing firm American Image Art and defendant in that case has filed fresh counterclaims accusing the Morgan of “one of the most massive art frauds in history”.
In this $150m (£120m) legal dispute Mr McKenzie claims in a letter that LOVE has been in the public domain since its creation in 1964.
Trademarks
He added that the Morgan has since “fraudulently affixed” copyright to more than 1,000 sculptures with a total retail value of “well above $100m” (£80m).
It also claims that a further one million items worth “at least $50m (£40m) in retails sales” have been fraudulently licensed.
Mr McKenzie is also seeking to cancel two trademarks for the design and reproduction of LOVE registered by the Morgan alleging they were “obtained by fraud, and are invalid”.
He argues that: “All intellectual property rights were abandoned by Indiana decades ago […] There is no doubt that LOVE is in the public domain.”
Christmas card
Mr Indiana first created the design for LOVE, which sees the four letters arranged in a square with the “O” tilting to the right, in 1964.
A year later it was published on a Christmas card for the Museum of Modern Art.
According to Mr McKenzie, “no copyright [was] served”. He also notes that Mr Indiana argued against the use of a copyright on a 1966 LOVE poster as Mr McKenzie claims the artist “didn’t like the way a copyright symbol looked on his art”.
‘Grief’
Mr Indiana’s LOVE artwork has been extensively reproduced over the years although the artist, who was associated with the pop art movement, made little profit from sales in his lifetime.
The first legal dispute lodged by the Morgan accuses Mr Indiana’s former caretaker, Jamie Thomas, of isolating the artist in his later years to allow McKenzie to forge and sell multiple works falsely attributed to Indiana worth at least $30m.
In an interview with the Art Newspaper in 2012 the artist reflected: “LOVE cinched my whole career, it put me on the map. But, it has also caused me grief and unhappiness, rip-offs and endless unpleasantness.”


inews--2020-05-01--Labour anti-Semitism dossier: Barrister to chair investigation into leaked report

Martin Forde QC to head up probe into leaked dossier Labour ’ s ruling national executive committee has named a leading lawyer to run its investigation into a leaked dossier on the party ’ s handling of anti-Semitism under Jeremy Corbyn .
Martin Forde , QC , will lead the probe , supported by three Labour peers , to examine how the report was publicly released .
The report ’ s revelations sparked a furore last month .
It claimed party officials worked against Mr Corbyn ’ s attempts to stamp out anti-Semitism within Labour by “ sabotaging ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Other parts of the party claimed the report was leaked in a bid to “ smear the whistleblowers ” who had accused the leadership of failing to deal with anti-Semitism .
Sir Keir Starmer launched an “ urgent independent investigation ” in mid-April to look into the report , which suggested Labour staff members tried to “ sabotage ” the party ’ s handling of anti-Semitism .
A party spokeswoman said Mr Forde was asked to chair the independent investigation to look into the “ circumstances , contents and release of an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be supported by a panel of three experts who have expertise in the law and the Labour Party ’ s structures .
The NEC has agreed that the investigation should endeavour to deliver its report by the middle of July , '' the spokeswoman said .
Labour ’ s ruling national executive committee has named a leading lawyer to run its investigation into a leaked dossier on the party ’ s handling of anti-Semitism under Jeremy Corbyn ( Photo : Leon Neal/Getty ) Mr Forde is an experience barrister who is currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Windrush Compensation Scheme .
He will be supported by Baroness Debbie Wilcox , a serving councillor , who was previously Leader of Newport City Council and Head of the Welsh Local Government Association .
Lord Larry Whitty , a former General Secretary of the Labour Party , and Baroness Ruth Lister , Honorary President of the Child Poverty Action Group , will also attend the panel .
The leaked 860-page report was drafted in March , while Mr Corbyn was still leading the party , and was to be part of the party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Equality and Human Rights Commission into anti-Semitism in the party .
The document claimed there had been a “ litany of mistakes , deficiencies , and missed opportunities ” to tackle antisemitism within the party .
It also stated there was “ abundant evidence of a hyper-factional atmosphere prevailing in party HQ in this period , which appears to have affected the expeditious and resolute handling of disciplinary complaints ” .
It also claimed that officials were “ bitterly opposed to the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn ” , prompting left-wing members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence of the party machine seeking to work against the Corbyn project .

Labour’s ruling national executive committee has named a leading lawyer to run its investigation into a leaked dossier on the party’s handling of anti-Semitism under Jeremy Corbyn.
Martin Forde, QC, will lead the probe, supported by three Labour peers, to examine how the report was publicly released.
The report’s revelations sparked a furore last month. It claimed party officials worked against Mr Corbyn’s attempts to stamp out anti-Semitism within Labour by “sabotaging” the party’s handling of the allegations.
Other parts of the party claimed the report was leaked in a bid to “smear the whistleblowers” who had accused the leadership of failing to deal with anti-Semitism.
Labour civil war
Sir Keir Starmer launched an “urgent independent investigation” in mid-April to look into the report, which suggested Labour staff members tried to “sabotage” the party’s handling of anti-Semitism.
A party spokeswoman said Mr Forde was asked to chair the independent investigation to look into the “circumstances, contents and release of an internal report”.
“Mr Forde will be supported by a panel of three experts who have expertise in the law and the Labour Party’s structures. The NEC has agreed that the investigation should endeavour to deliver its report by the middle of July,” the spokeswoman said.
Mr Forde is an experience barrister who is currently working as the independent adviser to the Windrush Compensation Scheme.
He will be supported by Baroness Debbie Wilcox, a serving councillor, who was previously Leader of Newport City Council and Head of the Welsh Local Government Association.
Lord Larry Whitty, a former General Secretary of the Labour Party, and Baroness Ruth Lister, Honorary President of the Child Poverty Action Group, will also attend the panel.
Factionalism
The leaked 860-page report was drafted in March, while Mr Corbyn was still leading the party, and was to be part of the party’s submission to an ongoing investigation by the Equality and Human Rights Commission into anti-Semitism in the party.
The document claimed there had been a “litany of mistakes, deficiencies, and missed opportunities” to tackle antisemitism within the party. It also stated there was “abundant evidence of a hyper-factional atmosphere prevailing in party HQ in this period, which appears to have affected the expeditious and resolute handling of disciplinary complaints”.
It also claimed that officials were “bitterly opposed to the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn”, prompting left-wing members of the party to highlight it as evidence of the party machine seeking to work against the Corbyn project.


inews--2020-05-01--Theresa May has made more than £1m on the lecture circuit since quitting as PM

Theresa May has made more than £1m on the lecture circuit since quitting as PM She follows in the footsteps of many former PMs who have cashed in on life after No 10 Theresa May has made more than £1 million in speaking engagements since she quit as prime minister in June last year .
On 4 March , she visited America 's elite Ivy League university , Brown , in Rhode Island , where she delivered the 100th Stephen A Ogden Jr ‘ 60 Memorial Lecture on International Affairs .
Her speech was entitled : “ Politics , Populism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Economy ” and during the event she also discussed the “ successes , challenges and inspirations ” of her government career .
She was paid £115,000 for the address .
Just a day after this on 5 March she had made the 2000-mile trip to Trinity University , Texas , where she was the featured speaker at the Flora Cameron Lecture on Politics and Public Affairs .
Again she was paid £115,000 for the speech , according to Research Professional News .
Both events were free to attend but ticketed .
Mrs May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now resides on the backbenchers registered the payments for the two March speeches in the parliamentary register of MPs ’ financial interests .
She is not the only former prime minister to have made money on the lucrative lecture circuit .
Tony Blair has pocketed a fortune from his speaking engagements and in 2009 was reported to have taken home nearly £400,000 for two 30-minute speeches he made in the Philippines , meaning he raked in more than £6000 a minute .
It was said that during one two-year period he was booked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Former Tory PM , David Cameron , however , is said to command a substantially smaller fee at around £120,000 per speech .
In 2019 he was reported to have taken home nearly £480,000 for a single speech he gave with the simple title , “ A conversation with President Barack Obama ” , at a marketing and business conference in Bogota , Columbia .
In 1989 he was paid $ 1m ( £800,000 ) per speech by the Fujisankei Communications Group when he visited Japan .
While there he gave two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2m ( £1.6m ) .

Theresa May has made more than £1 million in speaking engagements since she quit as prime minister in June last year.
Two speeches she gave in March this year alone earned her £230,000.
On 4 March, she visited America’s elite Ivy League university, Brown, in Rhode Island, where she delivered the 100th Stephen A Ogden Jr ‘60 Memorial Lecture on International Affairs.
Her speech was entitled: “Politics, Populism and Polarisation: Perspectives on the Global Economy” and during the event she also discussed the “successes, challenges and inspirations” of her government career. She was paid £115,000 for the address.
Featured speaker
Just a day after this on 5 March she had made the 2000-mile trip to Trinity University, Texas, where she was the featured speaker at the Flora Cameron Lecture on Politics and Public Affairs.
Again she was paid £115,000 for the speech, according to Research Professional News. Both events were free to attend but ticketed.
Mrs May, who is MP for Maidenhead and now resides on the backbenchers registered the payments for the two March speeches in the parliamentary register of MPs’ financial interests.
She is not the only former prime minister to have made money on the lucrative lecture circuit.
Tony Blair
Tony Blair has pocketed a fortune from his speaking engagements and in 2009 was reported to have taken home nearly £400,000 for two 30-minute speeches he made in the Philippines, meaning he raked in more than £6000 a minute.
It was said that during one two-year period he was booked solid to give speeches around the world.
Former Tory PM, David Cameron, however, is said to command a substantially smaller fee at around £120,000 per speech.
However, these figures pale in comparison to former US president Barack Obama.
In 2019 he was reported to have taken home nearly £480,000 for a single speech he gave with the simple title, “A conversation with President Barack Obama”, at a marketing and business conference in Bogota, Columbia.
At the time the eye-watering fee made him the world’s most expensive speaker.
Reagan
Another former US president who capitalised on life after Capitol Hill was Ronald Reagan.
In 1989 he was paid $1m (£800,000) per speech by the Fujisankei Communications Group when he visited Japan. While there he gave two speeches and took home an impressive $2m (£1.6m).


inews--2020-05-01--Lee Miller: the Vogue model turned photographer who captured the horrors of the Dachau concentration

Lee Miller: the Vogue model turned photographer who captured the horrors of the Dachau concentration camp

Lee Miller : the Vogue model turned photographer who captured the horrors of the Dachau concentration camp Hettie Judah assesses the career of Lee Miller , who took some of the most striking images of the Second World War , ahead of a documentary On that same day , after witnessing the liberation of Dachau , Miller drove with her photographic ( and romantic ) partner David Sherman to Hitler ’ s abandoned apartment in Munich .
They photographed details of the interior , and posed a sheltering GI reading Mein Kampf on his bed .
Then they locked themselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took it in turns to wash – it was the first time in weeks that either had seen a bath .
Lee Miller in Hitler ’ s apartment at 16 Prinzregentenplatz .
Note the combat boots on the bath mat now stained with the dust of Dachau ; and a photograph of the previous owner of the flat propped on the edge of the tub ( Photo : Lee Miller Archives , England 2020 .
All rights reserved .
www.leemiller.co.uk ) The photograph of Miller in Hitler ’ s bathtub disturbs me greatly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me since I first saw it .
It ’ s such a wounded , febrile impulse : scrubbing the nightmare of Dachau off your skin in the tub in which the monster that engineered it had once , too , sat naked .
It is the act of a human disturbed by the experience of many terrible things : and Lee Miller had been , both in the war and before it .
“ I had known my mum as a useless drunk , ” confesses her son Antony Penrose , with giddying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Life on the Front Line , a new documentary on BBC Two on Saturday 2 May at 10:30pm .
It was only going through Miller ’ s papers after her death in 1977 that Penrose discovered , for the first time , his mother ’ s work as a war photographer .
And there was more : audacious surrealist artworks that she had created in the 1930s in Egypt and Paris ; her work with Man Ray ; fashion photography and reportage for British Vogue during the early years of the war ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a teenager in Poughkeepsie taken by her father Theodore ; and images from her professional career as a model in New York in the 1920s .
More than 15 years before Vogue carried her report from the liberation of Dachau , Miller had appeared on the magazine ’ s cover , one of the top models of her day .
“ I couldn ’ t believe this was the same person , ” admits Penrose .
Legend had it that Miller had been scouted by the Vogue publisher Condé Nast after she stepped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York and he leapt to her rescue .
Lee Miller modelling in Paris in 1930 ( Photo : The Lee Miller Archives/PA Wire ) There is space here both to celebrate her liberated sexuality , and to note how it played into her fellow surrealists ’ sexually objectifying view of women .
Bouhassane delights in discussing the unconventional nature of Miller ’ s relationship with the British artist and writer Roland Penrose ( Antony ’ s father ) suggesting , among other things , there was the establishing of a ménage à @ @ @ @ @ @ @ war years .
Much about Miller ’ s life remains open to interpretation and conjecture .
As well as scholars and biographers , this documentary includes interviews with three women whose experiences help illuminate parts of Miller ’ s story .
Describing her years reporting from conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan , the great frontline photojournalist Lynsey Addario suggests the type of personality that is drawn to and can endure such situations , and describes the cumulative impact of PTSD .
Lee Miller at entrance to St Malo fortress in Brittany , France @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lee Miller Archives/PA Wire ) The most startling of the three testaments is Jessie Mann ’ s discussion of the nude photographs Miller ’ s father took of her as a teenager and young woman .
Mann is the daughter of photographer Sally Mann , whose intimate images of children and adolescents – including her own – have elicited great praise as well as great controversy .
Both Penrose and Bouhassanne found Theodore ’ s photographs of his daughter disturbing : Mann leaps passionately to their defence .
Speaking “ as a child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that such photographs are exploitative : “ It ’ s not always the case at all.
” It is impossible to know more of the dynamic between Theodore and Miller than we can see in the photographs .
What seems beyond doubt is that these early encounters with the camera introduced Miller to the technical world of photography .
As a model , it was her evident knowledge of the craft that elicited the suggestion that she move to Paris to study photography with Man Ray .
Miller ’ s life was peppered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was captivating , intoxicating , even , but also difficult , and could be devastatingly cavalier with those who doted on her .
A Life on the Front Line ends soon after Miller ’ s return to London at the end of the war : now a celebrated figure , her arrival at the Hampstead home she had shared with Roland Penrose is captured in upbeat documentary footage of the time , and shows Miller affectionately tucking a new kitten into her tailored army jacket .
The reality was less rosy .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notes Sherman .
Like her , too , Penrose had taken up with someone else during their time apart .

Looking back from our current era, in which fashion magazines are so avidly policed by shock-shy advertisers, it seems almost inconceivable that both UK and US Vogue published Lee Miller’s photographs of the Dachau concentration camp.
“Believe it” ran both magazines’ headline for June 1945. The images were indeed too much to take in, the grotesque spectacle of piled up emaciated bodies too horrifying and inhumane to comprehend. Miller herself would certainly never be the same afterwards.
On that same day, after witnessing the liberation of Dachau, Miller drove with her photographic (and romantic) partner David Sherman to Hitler’s abandoned apartment in Munich. They photographed details of the interior, and posed a sheltering GI reading Mein Kampf on his bed. Then they locked themselves in Hitler’s bathroom, and took it in turns to wash – it was the first time in weeks that either had seen a bath.
Sherman photographed Miller sitting naked in the tub. Her worn, heavy boots, filthy with the mud of Dachau, sit neatly in front, smearing dark traces of human dirt on to Hitler’s clean white bathmat. It was only later that they learnt of Hitler’s suicide – in his underground bunker in Berlin – on that same day, 20 April 1945.
The photograph of Miller in Hitler’s bathtub disturbs me greatly. It has nagged and worried at me since I first saw it. It’s such a wounded, febrile impulse: scrubbing the nightmare of Dachau off your skin in the tub in which the monster that engineered it had once, too, sat naked. It is the act of a human disturbed by the experience of many terrible things: and Lee Miller had been, both in the war and before it.
“I had known my mum as a useless drunk,” confesses her son Antony Penrose, with giddying frankness, in Lee Miller: a Life on the Front Line, a new documentary on BBC Two on Saturday 2 May at 10:30pm. It was only going through Miller’s papers after her death in 1977 that Penrose discovered, for the first time, his mother’s work as a war photographer.
And there was more: audacious surrealist artworks that she had created in the 1930s in Egypt and Paris; her work with Man Ray; fashion photography and reportage for British Vogue during the early years of the war; poised, naked photographs of her as a teenager in Poughkeepsie taken by her father Theodore; and images from her professional career as a model in New York in the 1920s.
More than 15 years before Vogue carried her report from the liberation of Dachau, Miller had appeared on the magazine’s cover, one of the top models of her day. “I couldn’t believe this was the same person,” admits Penrose. Legend had it that Miller had been scouted by the Vogue publisher Condé Nast after she stepped out in front of a car in New York and he leapt to her rescue.
Penrose and his daughter Ami Bouhassane have spent decades piecing together details of Miller’s life and career (for those wanting a deeper dive, both have published extensively). Their heartfelt, lively and unsentimental testament moors this remarkably nuanced exploration of Miller’s life and work.
There is space here both to celebrate her liberated sexuality, and to note how it played into her fellow surrealists’ sexually objectifying view of women. Bouhassane delights in discussing the unconventional nature of Miller’s relationship with the British artist and writer Roland Penrose (Antony’s father) suggesting, among other things, there was the establishing of a ménage à trois with David Sherman during the later war years.
Much about Miller’s life remains open to interpretation and conjecture. As well as scholars and biographers, this documentary includes interviews with three women whose experiences help illuminate parts of Miller’s story. Describing her years reporting from conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the great frontline photojournalist Lynsey Addario suggests the type of personality that is drawn to and can endure such situations, and describes the cumulative impact of PTSD.
The model Karen Elson draws on her many years collaborating with the photographer Tim Walker to discuss Lee Miller’s early relationship with Man Ray, as student, assistant and inspiration, both in front of and behind the camera. “It is an alchemy of two people,” says Elson, of the intense bond of understanding between photographer and model.
The most startling of the three testaments is Jessie Mann’s discussion of the nude photographs Miller’s father took of her as a teenager and young woman. Mann is the daughter of photographer Sally Mann, whose intimate images of children and adolescents – including her own – have elicited great praise as well as great controversy. Both Penrose and Bouhassanne found Theodore’s photographs of his daughter disturbing: Mann leaps passionately to their defence. Speaking “as a child subject” she condemns the automatic assumption that such photographs are exploitative: “It’s not always the case at all.”
It is impossible to know more of the dynamic between Theodore and Miller than we can see in the photographs. What seems beyond doubt is that these early encounters with the camera introduced Miller to the technical world of photography. As a model, it was her evident knowledge of the craft that elicited the suggestion that she move to Paris to study photography with Man Ray.
(Interestingly, Miller’s direct contemporary Frida Kahlo was also the favoured subject of a photographer father and learnt much from him. As feminist critic Linda Nochlin has pointed out, women artists of less liberated times are overwhelmingly the daughters of artist fathers.)
Miller’s life was peppered both with horror and brilliance: she was captivating, intoxicating, even, but also difficult, and could be devastatingly cavalier with those who doted on her. A Life on the Front Line ends soon after Miller’s return to London at the end of the war: now a celebrated figure, her arrival at the Hampstead home she had shared with Roland Penrose is captured in upbeat documentary footage of the time, and shows Miller affectionately tucking a new kitten into her tailored army jacket. The reality was less rosy. “She was a peacetime casualty,” notes Sherman. Like her, too, Penrose had taken up with someone else during their time apart.
Two years later Miller and Penrose were married, and in 1949 they moved to the remote Farleys farmhouse in Sussex with their young son Antony. At Farleys they hosted the avant-garde of Europe and the US: among them Pablo Picasso, Max Ernst, Joan Miró, Man Ray, Leonora Carrington, Dorothea Tanning, Eileen Agar, William Turnbull and Richard Hamilton.
Despite suffering terrible depressive episodes, Miller engineered a remarkable, and quite improbable final act for herself as a cordon bleu cook with a surrealist eye (her most notorious dish was pink breasts formed from cauliflower and tomato mayonnaise). When she died, in 1977, she was known as a hostess and cook. Everything that came before remained hidden: she died, essentially unrecognised.
“As a child she had learnt to keep secrets,” explains Antony Penrose, describing Miller’s ability to dissociate herself both from trauma in her past, and from events taking place around her. That detachment was a survival mechanism, but it kept his mother a virtual stranger from him: “There was so much I wish I’d known about her.”
Lee Miller: A Life on the Front Line is available on BBC iPlayer