inews--2020-05-15--Coronavirus: Plan to reopen schools in England hangs in balance as teacher unions meeting with scien

Coronavirus: Plan to reopen schools in England hangs in balance as teacher unions meeting with scientists 'raised more questions'

Coronavirus : Plan to reopen schools in England hangs in balance as teacher unions meeting with scientists 'raised more questions' A meeting between unions and government scientists failed to break the deadlock , with union leaders saying it 'raised more questions' The Government ’ s plan to reopen schools in England hangs in the balance amid continuing resistance from teacher unions and councils , with an exclusive i poll finding parents are split on the issue .
A meeting between unions and government scientists failed to break the deadlock on Friday , with union leaders saying it “ raised more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has said that if the rate of infection is under control , children in Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 could return on 1 June at the earliest as part of a phased reopening .
The ambition is for all primary pupils to return for a month before the holidays , and for secondary students in Years 10 and 12 to have time back in school too .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson in the House of Commons , London , answering an urgent question on the Government 's plans for reopening schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PA ) In England , the Government has been met with fierce resistance from unions , who have raised concerns about the health of school staff and their families .
Some unions have advised members not to engage with plans to reopen on 1 June .
There was no sign of a softening of their position following the meeting with the Government ’ s scientific advisers .
Kevin Courtney , the National Education Union ’ s joint general secretary , said : “ Very many questions that we asked were not addressed ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind the unions .
`` Until we have got case numbers much lower , we should not consider reopening schools , '' chair Chaand Nagpaul wrote in a letter to the NEU .
Liverpool City Council has also defied the Government .
In a letter seen by Schools Week , director of children ’ s services Steve Reddy said schools would not open to more pupils “ before June 15 at the very earliest ” .
But the Government 's bid to reopen schools received a boost after some of England ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intending to open on 1 June .
Julian Drinkall , chief executive of AET , which runs 33 primary schools , told i : `` By creating smaller protective bubbles , having staggered break and lunchtimes , and having a rigorous cleaning and hygiene measures in place , we are working towards opening all of our schools on 1 June.
” Two other major chains - Oasis Trust and REAch2 - have also said they plan to admit more pupils on that date .
A survey conducted for i by Redfield & Wilton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are willing to send their children back to school before the summer .
Among those who have school-aged children , 56 per cent say they would be happy for them to return to the classroom in June or July while 44 per cent would not be .
The poll suggests the public disagrees with the Government 's decision to reopen primary schools ahead of secondary schools .
Sixty three per cent said older students should go back to school first , with 37 per cent saying younger pupils should get priority .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being damaged because of the schooling they have lost during lockdown , with those from disadvantaged families suffering the most .

The Government’s plan to reopen schools in England hangs in the balance amid continuing resistance from teacher unions and councils, with an exclusive i poll finding parents are split on the issue.
A meeting between unions and government scientists failed to break the deadlock on Friday, with union leaders saying it “raised more questions than answers”.
Boris Johnson has said that if the rate of infection is under control, children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 could return on 1 June at the earliest as part of a phased reopening.
The ambition is for all primary pupils to return for a month before the holidays, and for secondary students in Years 10 and 12 to have time back in school too.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have not set dates for reopening schools.
Union resistance
In England, the Government has been met with fierce resistance from unions, who have raised concerns about the health of school staff and their families. Some unions have advised members not to engage with plans to reopen on 1 June.
There was no sign of a softening of their position following the meeting with the Government’s scientific advisers. Kevin Courtney, the National Education Union’s joint general secretary, said: “Very many questions that we asked were not addressed”.
Patrick Roach, general secretary of the NASUWT, said: “Today’s meeting has raised more questions than answers.”
The British Medical Association weighed in behind the unions. “Until we have got case numbers much lower, we should not consider reopening schools,” chair Chaand Nagpaul wrote in a letter to the NEU.
Liverpool defiance
Liverpool City Council has also defied the Government. In a letter seen by Schools Week, director of children’s services Steve Reddy said schools would not open to more pupils “before June 15 at the very earliest”.
Anne Longfield, the Children’s Commissioner in England, intervened to break the deadlock.
She published research which suggested there had been almost no transmission of Covid-19 in nurseries attached to NHS hospitals in England that have been open during lockdown.
She conceded the scientific evidence could not guarantee that reopening schools was completely safe, but said: “We cannot afford to wait for a vaccine, which may never arrive, before children are back in school.”
But the Government’s bid to reopen schools received a boost after some of England’s biggest academy school chains announced they were intending to open on 1 June.
Julian Drinkall, chief executive of AET, which runs 33 primary schools, told i: “By creating smaller protective bubbles, having staggered break and lunchtimes, and having a rigorous cleaning and hygiene measures in place, we are working towards opening all of our schools on 1 June.”
Two other major chains – Oasis Trust and REAch2 – have also said they plan to admit more pupils on that date.
Parents split
A survey conducted for i by Redfield & Wilton Strategies found a small majority of parents are willing to send their children back to school before the summer.
Among those who have school-aged children, 56 per cent say they would be happy for them to return to the classroom in June or July while 44 per cent would not be.
The poll suggests the public disagrees with the Government’s decision to reopen primary schools ahead of secondary schools. Sixty three per cent said older students should go back to school first, with 37 per cent saying younger pupils should get priority.
The Government has said that children’s prospects are being damaged because of the schooling they have lost during lockdown, with those from disadvantaged families suffering the most.
Gavin Williamson, the Education Secretary, said: “Getting children back to school is vital for their educational development and many schools are already taking steps to welcome back their pupils.”


inews--2020-05-15--Schitt's Creek: Farewell to the sitcom that proved how rich life can be when all you have is one ano

Schitt's Creek: Farewell to the sitcom that proved how rich life can be when all you have is one another

Schitt 's Creek : Farewell to the sitcom that proved how rich life can be when all you have is one another As its final season comes to Netflix , Sarah Carson pays tribute to the sleeper hit sitcom Long before we met the once wealthy Rose family , as they were turfed by bailiffs from their mansion and were forced to live in a motel in the backwoods town of Schitt ’ s Creek they bought for a joke in 1991 , they had each lived rich , disparate lives .
Father Johnny was a video rental store magnate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonic possession on daytime television . ''
Twentysomething socialite daughter Alexis - “ Do I have to remind you of the time that I was taken hostage on David Geffen 's yacht by Somali pirates for a week ?
” And her insecure , precious , particular older brother David , a pampered New York gallerist .
But , as knows anyone whose heart has been won by this sleeper hit - the Canadian sitcom was hidden away on the obscure Pop cable channel in the US but found a cult following when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the six seasons that have followed , their fall from grace led to a life much richer .
Schitt ’ s Creek , created by Dan Levy who stars as David , and his father , Eugene , who plays patriarch Johnny , could easily have been a one dimensional comedy about a spoilt , selfish family mocking the hicks they rub up against .
But Schitt ’ s Creek swerved that , instead balancing the tender and ridiculous at a time when “ good ” sitcoms have veered toward the cynical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offbeat wacky cultural references of 30 Rock , the colourful , loving smalltown circus of Gilmore Girls and the warmth of The Good Place .
And , thanks to the performance of Annie Murphy who copied clips of Lindsay Lohan , the Olsen twins and the Kardashian sisters to develop the vocal fry and gesticulating mannerisms of Alexis , there are regular jolts to early noughties reality TV , too .
And the residents of Schitt ’ s Creek - guileless Twyla at the cafe , beatifically patient mayor ’ s wife Jocelyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - never revere the celebrity brood in their midst : instead they tolerate them with an eye roll and welcomed them into their odd little fold ( though the family might initially resist ) .
Soon they are fundraising for the local Asbestos Fest with the best of them .
The Rose family do not land with a thud down to earth but slowly , in some of the most intricately-crafted character development in comedy , transform their lot and luck .
By the final season , Alexis , once described by Us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” , is thriving as a PR , Johnny is franchising the motel and Moira has half-revived her acting career in The Crows Have Eyes III : The Crowening .
David is preparing for his wedding to Patrick , his business partner at Rose Boutique - homophobia simply does not exist in the town of Schitt ’ s Creek , there are no tricky comings out or moralising lessons , a statement which rings much louder .
David ’ s pansexuality is smartly established early on : “ I do drink red wine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... And I 've been known to sample the occasional rosé.
” The Rose family : Catherine O'Hara as Moira , Eugene Levy as Johnny , Daniel Levy as David and Annie Murphy as Alexis on Schitt 's Creek ( Photo : Netflix ) More unique is how their relationships to each other have bloomed .
Once branched around the world ( in Alexis ’ s case , usually awaiting ransom in a Ugandan diamond smuggler ’ s villa ) , this group of overgrown children plonked into single beds in adjoining rooms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ root and curl around one another : the portrait of family that emerges is original in how deeply and carefully the script demonstrates their knowledge and consideration of each other .
It ’ s familiar in every smirk , whinge ( “ Ew , David !
” ) , sigh , groan - every time the parents humour the fussy David , every time he grinds his jaw in annoyance or jabs his tongue into his cheek to avoid exploding at the hysteria of his mother , every time Moira ’ s children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or Alexis reveals some wildly inappropriate memory in front of her father - “ it ’ s just a checkpoint .
I ’ ve been through tons of these in Johannesburg .
It ’ s like a drive through , except everyone has a gun.
” And it ’ s in every in-joke - “ Alexis looked Chinese as an infant , how many times must I defend myself ?
” “ If this is about those stupid Tamagotchis… ” Schitt ’ s Creek , which ended on Netflix this week , celebrates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be when all you have is one another .

Long before we met the once wealthy Rose family, as they were turfed by bailiffs from their mansion and were forced to live in a motel in the backwoods town of Schitt’s Creek they bought for a joke in 1991, they had each lived rich, disparate lives. Father Johnny was a video rental store magnate. Mother Moira had “the longest-running demonic possession on daytime television.” Twentysomething socialite daughter Alexis – “Do I have to remind you of the time that I was taken hostage on David Geffen’s yacht by Somali pirates for a week?” And her insecure, precious, particular older brother David, a pampered New York gallerist.
But, as knows anyone whose heart has been won by this sleeper hit – the Canadian sitcom was hidden away on the obscure Pop cable channel in the US but found a cult following when it moved to Netflix in 2017 – over the six seasons that have followed, their fall from grace led to a life much richer.
Schitt’s Creek, created by Dan Levy who stars as David, and his father, Eugene, who plays patriarch Johnny, could easily have been a one dimensional comedy about a spoilt, selfish family mocking the hicks they rub up against. But Schitt’s Creek swerved that, instead balancing the tender and ridiculous at a time when “good” sitcoms have veered toward the cynical. Schitt’s Creek has the offbeat wacky cultural references of 30 Rock, the colourful, loving smalltown circus of Gilmore Girls and the warmth of The Good Place. And, thanks to the performance of Annie Murphy who copied clips of Lindsay Lohan, the Olsen twins and the Kardashian sisters to develop the vocal fry and gesticulating mannerisms of Alexis, there are regular jolts to early noughties reality TV, too. And the residents of Schitt’s Creek – guileless Twyla at the cafe, beatifically patient mayor’s wife Jocelyn, beleaguered, bored and stony Stevie – never revere the celebrity brood in their midst: instead they tolerate them with an eye roll and welcomed them into their odd little fold (though the family might initially resist). Soon they are fundraising for the local Asbestos Fest with the best of them.
The Rose family do not land with a thud down to earth but slowly, in some of the most intricately-crafted character development in comedy, transform their lot and luck. By the final season, Alexis, once described by Us Weekly magazine as “up for anything”, is thriving as a PR, Johnny is franchising the motel and Moira has half-revived her acting career in The Crows Have Eyes III: The Crowening. David is preparing for his wedding to Patrick, his business partner at Rose Boutique – homophobia simply does not exist in the town of Schitt’s Creek, there are no tricky comings out or moralising lessons, a statement which rings much louder. David’s pansexuality is smartly established early on: “I do drink red wine, but I also drink white wine… And I’ve been known to sample the occasional rosé.”
More unique is how their relationships to each other have bloomed. Once branched around the world (in Alexis’s case, usually awaiting ransom in a Ugandan diamond smuggler’s villa), this group of overgrown children plonked into single beds in adjoining rooms off a highway forces the Roses to root and curl around one another: the portrait of family that emerges is original in how deeply and carefully the script demonstrates their knowledge and consideration of each other.
It’s familiar in every smirk, whinge (“Ew, David!”), sigh, groan – every time the parents humour the fussy David, every time he grinds his jaw in annoyance or jabs his tongue into his cheek to avoid exploding at the hysteria of his mother, every time Moira’s children mock her cherished wall of wigs, or Alexis reveals some wildly inappropriate memory in front of her father – “it’s just a checkpoint. I’ve been through tons of these in Johannesburg. It’s like a drive through, except everyone has a gun.” And it’s in every in-joke – “Alexis looked Chinese as an infant, how many times must I defend myself?” “If this is about those stupid Tamagotchis…” Schitt’s Creek, which ended on Netflix this week, celebrates how daft and full and rich life can be when all you have is one another.


inews--2020-05-15--Coronavirus lockdown: A third of Britons will refuse to wear face mask in public despite change in G

Coronavirus lockdown: A third of Britons will refuse to wear face mask in public despite change in Government advice

Coronavirus lockdown : A third of Britons will refuse to wear face mask in public despite change in Government advice Exclusive : 85 % of people say they are unlikely to be able to go on a summer holiday More than a third of Britons will refuse to wear a face covering in public despite the Government 's advice , a poll has found .
Around 40 per cent of people say they have already been covering their face when they go out at least some of the time , with another 25 per cent planning to start doing so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Redfield & Wilton Strategies .
The UK and Scottish Governments have both said that people should consider wearing a non-medical mask when they are in a crowded place , such as a small shop or public transport .
Face coverings are thought to reduce the spread of coronavirus by making it less likely that asymptomatic carriers will inadvertently infect others .
But 36 per cent of those polled said they have not been wearing a mask at all , and do not intend to start doing so at any point .
Among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face in public , 16 per cent say they have done so all of the time , 17 per cent some of the time and 7 per cent only rarely .
Members of the public have been advised to avoid buying up stocks of medical-grade masks , in case the supply to the NHS and care homes is affected .
The Government has instead published guidance on how people can make their own face coverings , for example by cutting a piece of fabric out of a T-shirt .
Ministers are investigating the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of non-medical masks which can be distributed in coming months .
The poll also found that 85 per cent of people do not expect to be able to take a summer holiday this year .
Just 9 per cent of people said they did expect to be able to get away by the end of August .
Current official advice states that no one should leave the country unless it is strictly necessary , while all hotels are closed by law .
Even when the UK 's current restrictions ease it is likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in most countries making it almost impossible to go on holiday until the Covid-19 pandemic has abated .

More than a third of Britons will refuse to wear a face covering in public despite the Government’s advice, a poll has found.
Around 40 per cent of people say they have already been covering their face when they go out at least some of the time, with another 25 per cent planning to start doing so, according to the poll for i by Redfield & Wilton Strategies.
The UK and Scottish Governments have both said that people should consider wearing a non-medical mask when they are in a crowded place, such as a small shop or public transport. Face coverings are thought to reduce the spread of coronavirus by making it less likely that asymptomatic carriers will inadvertently infect others.
But 36 per cent of those polled said they have not been wearing a mask at all, and do not intend to start doing so at any point.
Among those who have already started covering their face in public, 16 per cent say they have done so all of the time, 17 per cent some of the time and 7 per cent only rarely.
No holiday
Members of the public have been advised to avoid buying up stocks of medical-grade masks, in case the supply to the NHS and care homes is affected.
The Government has instead published guidance on how people can make their own face coverings, for example by cutting a piece of fabric out of a T-shirt. Ministers are investigating the possibility of building up a national stock of non-medical masks which can be distributed in coming months.
The poll also found that 85 per cent of people do not expect to be able to take a summer holiday this year. Just 9 per cent of people said they did expect to be able to get away by the end of August.
Current official advice states that no one should leave the country unless it is strictly necessary, while all hotels are closed by law. Even when the UK’s current restrictions ease it is likely that border controls will stay in place in most countries making it almost impossible to go on holiday until the Covid-19 pandemic has abated.


inews--2020-05-15--Coronavirus: Failing Scottish care homes face state intervention

The plans are included in a Scottish Government amendment to emergency legislation on the virus Scottish care homes deemed to be risking the lives of their residents during the coronavirus outbreak will be taken over by the state , under emergency powers being sought by ministers .
The change , which comes amid mounting concern over the high number of Covid-19 deaths in care homes , will allow ministers to temporarily take over the running of failing establishments .
The plans are included in a Scottish Government amendment to emergency legislation on the virus which is due to be debated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week .
Under the proposals , ministers would be able to apply for a court order giving them the right to intervene and manage the services provided in a care home for a period of up to a year .
The amendment says this could happen if authorities believed there was a “ threat to life ” in the care home , or if its operators ran into serious financial difficulties related to coronavirus .
Under the proposals , ministers would not even have to wait for a decision by a sheriff before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operations , but would merely have to lodge an application .
In most circumstances the local council or NHS health board would take over , with the original operator of the home able to appeal any decision made by the courts .
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said the new measures were designed to be a “ safety net ” during the coronavirus pandemic , describing them as “ critical ” to reassure residents and their families .
“ Our proposals build on established powers and would put beyond doubt that immediate action can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jeopardised for any reason , ” she added .
“ The Care Inspectorate has a robust inspection regime for the care sector and the further steps we are hoping to take , if the parliament agrees , help bolster that work and would only be exercised as a last resort.
” Home Farm care home on Skye has now reported nine deaths ( Photo : Google ) Figures published earlier this week showed the death toll in care homes had reached 1,438 by last Sunday – meaning they have seen almost as many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released showed that 45 per cent of Scotland 's care homes currently have a suspected coronavirus case , while 58 per cent have reported at least one since the outbreak began .
In other developments , Nicola Sturgeon hinted that minor changes to Scotland 's coronavirus lockdown restrictions could be made next week , as she acknowledged people “ ca n't live like this forever ” .
The First Minister said she would publish more information on the options being considered by authorities for easing the lockdown , as well as other changes @ @ @ @ @ @

Scottish care homes deemed to be risking the lives of their residents during the coronavirus outbreak will be taken over by the state, under emergency powers being sought by ministers.
The change, which comes amid mounting concern over the high number of Covid-19 deaths in care homes, will allow ministers to temporarily take over the running of failing establishments.
The plans are included in a Scottish Government amendment to emergency legislation on the virus which is due to be debated and passed by MSPs at Holyrood next week.
Under the proposals, ministers would be able to apply for a court order giving them the right to intervene and manage the services provided in a care home for a period of up to a year.
‘Threat to life’
The amendment says this could happen if authorities believed there was a “threat to life” in the care home, or if its operators ran into serious financial difficulties related to coronavirus.
Under the proposals, ministers would not even have to wait for a decision by a sheriff before entering the care home and taking over operations, but would merely have to lodge an application.
In most circumstances the local council or NHS health board would take over, with the original operator of the home able to appeal any decision made by the courts.
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said the new measures were designed to be a “safety net” during the coronavirus pandemic, describing them as “critical” to reassure residents and their families.
“Our proposals build on established powers and would put beyond doubt that immediate action can be taken if continuity of care was jeopardised for any reason,” she added.
“The Care Inspectorate has a robust inspection regime for the care sector and the further steps we are hoping to take, if the parliament agrees, help bolster that work and would only be exercised as a last resort.”
Figures published earlier this week showed the death toll in care homes had reached 1,438 by last Sunday – meaning they have seen almost as many Covid-19 deaths as hospitals.
Separate data released showed that 45 per cent of Scotland’s care homes currently have a suspected coronavirus case, while 58 per cent have reported at least one since the outbreak began.
In other developments, Nicola Sturgeon hinted that minor changes to Scotland’s coronavirus lockdown restrictions could be made next week, as she acknowledged people “can’t live like this forever”.
The First Minister said she would publish more information on the options being considered by authorities for easing the lockdown, as well as other changes that might happen more quickly.


inews--2020-05-16--UK is the largest consumer of cocaine in Europe, National Crime Agency says

UK is the largest consumer of cocaine in Europe , National Crime Agency says Head of drugs threat Lawrence Gibbon estimated that the amount being trafficked into the UK has risen three-fold Head of drugs threat Lawrence Gibbon estimated that the amount of the Class A substance being trafficked into the country has risen three-fold since 2011 to 117 tonnes .
`` A lot of the consignments we see coming into Europe - through Spain , Belgium or the Netherlands mainly - a significant proportion is destined for the UK , ” Mr Gibbon told The Times .
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would solve the issue of demand for the drug , but added that users should be aware of the `` reality of a trade that is run by criminal gangs who use guns , violence , trafficking and debt bondage '' .
Between the years 2018 and 2019 , law enforcement seized 9.6 tonnes of cocaine , which , according to the Home Office , is the largest amount since records began in 1973 .
This was up 12 per cent from cocaine seized in the previous period .
Cocaine is the second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , used by 70 per cent of those who take illicit substances ( Photo : AFP/Getty ) Three men were arrested after cocaine with a potential street value of £3 million was found in a `` purpose-built hide '' in a lorry which arrived at Dover on a ferry from France on 23 April .
And two men were charged earlier in May with allegedly breaking into the London Container Terminal in Tilbury to retrieve packages of drugs with a potential street value of £1million from a refrigerated container which had arrived from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out by forensic scientists at King 's College London placed London and Bristol in the top five cities with the highest use of the Class A drug in Europe .
The analysis further showed that more than one in every 50 people in London take the drug every day .
Speaking to The Telegraph at the time , Dr Leon Barron , the forensic scientist who led the study , said : “ I stand that purity has also risen mainly through increased supply and production in Latin America .
There are cartels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excess supply .
”

The UK is the biggest consumer of powder cocaine in Europe, a National Crime Agency (NCA) investigator has said.
Head of drugs threat Lawrence Gibbon estimated that the amount of the Class A substance being trafficked into the country has risen three-fold since 2011 to 117 tonnes.
“A lot of the consignments we see coming into Europe – through Spain, Belgium or the Netherlands mainly – a significant proportion is destined for the UK,” Mr Gibbon told The Times.
“The UK is the biggest user of powder cocaine in Europe.”
Reality of the trade
He said he does not believe that heavier policing would solve the issue of demand for the drug, but added that users should be aware of the “reality of a trade that is run by criminal gangs who use guns, violence, trafficking and debt bondage”.
Between the years 2018 and 2019, law enforcement seized 9.6 tonnes of cocaine, which, according to the Home Office, is the largest amount since records began in 1973. This was up 12 per cent from cocaine seized in the previous period.
More recently, UK Border Force officials found 31lb (14kg) of cocaine stashed among two consignments of face masks after stopping a Polish van driver near Calais.
Three men were arrested after cocaine with a potential street value of £3 million was found in a “purpose-built hide” in a lorry which arrived at Dover on a ferry from France on 23 April.
And two men were charged earlier in May with allegedly breaking into the London Container Terminal in Tilbury to retrieve packages of drugs with a potential street value of £1million from a refrigerated container which had arrived from Belize.
London cocaine capital
In 2019, analysis carried out by forensic scientists at King’s College London placed London and Bristol in the top five cities with the highest use of the Class A drug in Europe.
The other cities in the top five included Barcelona, Antwerp, and Amsterdam.
The analysis further showed that more than one in every 50 people in London take the drug every day.
Speaking to The Telegraph at the time, Dr Leon Barron, the forensic scientist who led the study, said: “I stand that purity has also risen mainly through increased supply and production in Latin America. There are cartels operating in the UK to offload that excess supply.”
Additional reporting from Press Association


inews--2020-05-16--Coronavirus latest: Matt Hancock's testing regime criticised by GPs as a 'free-for-all'

The Royal College of GPs has warned that without a clear testing strategy the UK could be headed for a second wave of infections In a letter to Health Secretary Matt Hancock , RCGP chair Professor Martin Marshall said there is a lack of confidence in the Government 's testing strategy - including in the accuracy and timing of results .
He wrote : `` Whilst we recognise the work of Government and a range of stakeholders , we do not believe that there is sufficient clarity on a joined-up comprehensive testing strategy to prevent a second wave of infections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the population .
`` As we ease lockdown over the coming weeks and months , it is essential that the profession and patients have full confidence in the approach to test , track and trace . ''
'Time to move beyond arbitrary focus on numbers' Professor Marshall said a joined-up approach is required between the NHS , social care and community care - including care homes , which he warned are on the `` front lines '' of the pandemic .
`` I am sure you will agree that now is the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numbers and targets and ensure that our loved ones in vulnerable settings are given particular protection . ''
He stressed that the Government needs to clearly inform the public about the importance of test , track and trace , and other measures that will accompany the NHS Covid-19 tracking app .
Professor Marshall said care homes are on the front lines of the pandemic ( Photo : Getty ) '' What we have got at the moment is a bit of a free-for-all so we are looking for a targeted plan , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honest in the Covid crisis the battle is now taking place in the community , not in hospitals .
That is where we are trying to prevent the second wave of infections . ''
Meanwhile , Sir Mark Walport , chief executive of UK research and innovation and a former government chief scientific adviser , said test , track and trace is critical , as a second wave is still a possibility .
He told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme : `` It is a combination of people being really careful about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as early and as rigorously by testing as possible , and then working out who their contacts have been and making sure that they do isolate themselves .
`` As measures are taken to relax social distancing , they have got to be taken very , very cautiously indeed .
`` There is no question that the prospect of a second wave does exist .
That is undoubtedly the case .
It will continue to exist while there are a significant number of cases out there . ''
He said : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelling to labs and the wait time for results is undermining confidence in the process and results themselves .

GPs have criticised the Government for having an “arbitrary focus on numbers” regarding its coronavirus testing regime.
The Royal College of GPs (RCGP) has warned that without a clear testing strategy the UK could be headed for a second wave of infections.
In a letter to Health Secretary Matt Hancock, RCGP chair Professor Martin Marshall said there is a lack of confidence in the Government’s testing strategy – including in the accuracy and timing of results.
He wrote: “Whilst we recognise the work of Government and a range of stakeholders, we do not believe that there is sufficient clarity on a joined-up comprehensive testing strategy to prevent a second wave of infections and to secure the overall health of the population.
“As we ease lockdown over the coming weeks and months, it is essential that the profession and patients have full confidence in the approach to test, track and trace.”
‘Time to move beyond arbitrary focus on numbers’
Professor Marshall said a joined-up approach is required between the NHS, social care and community care – including care homes, which he warned are on the “front lines” of the pandemic.
He added: “In the absence of a clear strategy and with delays in social care planning, patients have been left vulnerable.
“I am sure you will agree that now is the time to move beyond an arbitrary focus on numbers and targets and ensure that our loved ones in vulnerable settings are given particular protection.”
He stressed that the Government needs to clearly inform the public about the importance of test, track and trace, and other measures that will accompany the NHS Covid-19 tracking app.
‘Free-for-all’
In an interview with BBC Radio 4, Professor Marshall also accused the Government’s current approach of being a “free-for-all”.
“What we have got at the moment is a bit of a free-for-all so we are looking for a targeted plan,” he said.
“If we are honest in the Covid crisis the battle is now taking place in the community, not in hospitals. That is where we are trying to prevent the second wave of infections.”
Meanwhile, Sir Mark Walport, chief executive of UK research and innovation and a former government chief scientific adviser, said test, track and trace is critical, as a second wave is still a possibility.
Potential for second wave
He told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme: “It is a combination of people being really careful about how they behave coupled with identifying cases as early and as rigorously by testing as possible, and then working out who their contacts have been and making sure that they do isolate themselves.
“As measures are taken to relax social distancing, they have got to be taken very, very cautiously indeed.
“There is no question that the prospect of a second wave does exist. That is undoubtedly the case. It will continue to exist while there are a significant number of cases out there.”
Professor Marshall added the RCGP is aware of concerns from healthcare workers about the accuracy and timing of some test results.
He said: “We know that the distances that tests are travelling to labs and the wait time for results is undermining confidence in the process and results themselves.
“Any testing strategy must therefore commit to building confidence in the process, including a commitment to improving the sensitivity and specificity of the tests.”
Professor Marshall also called for GPs to be given guidance on how to help patients get tested, and asked for “transparent communication” from the Government.
Additional reporting by PA


inews--2020-05-16--Barber Shop Chronicles cast: who stars in the National Theatre Live play, and how to watch on YouTub

Barber Shop Chronicles cast: who stars in the National Theatre Live play, and how to watch on YouTube from home

Barber Shop Chronicles cast : who stars in the National Theatre Live play , and how to watch on YouTube from home Inua Ellams ' heartwarming hit leaps from a barber shop in Peckham to Johannesburg , Harare , Kampala , Lagos and Accra The National Theatre has been a godsend for many during the coronavirus lockdown , streaming some of its most popular plays for free on its YouTube channel .
How to watch Barber Shop Chronicles at home The production `` live streamed '' on the National Theatre 's YouTube channel at 7pm on Thursday 14 May .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ available to watch at any time until 7pm on Thursday 21 May .
The National Theatre synopsis says : `` Newsroom , political platform , local hotspot , confession box , preacher-pulpit and football stadium .
For generations , African men have gathered in barber shops to discuss the world .
These are places where the banter can be barbed and the truth is always telling .
`` Directed by Olivier award-winning director Bijan Sheibani , Barber Shop Chronicles is a heartwarming , hilarious and insightful new play that leaps from a barber @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Kampala , Lagos and Accra over the course of a single day . ''
The play had two sellout runs at the National Theatre , as well as a world tour and a successful summer residency at London 's Roundhouse .
This particular production was filmed in January 2018 and features the original cast .
Sheibani 's other directing credits include The Brothers Size , Our Class - for which he was nominated for the Best Director Olivier award in 2010 - and Gone Too Far !
, which won the award @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2008 .
The productions was filmed in 2018 ( Photo : National Theatre ) Unlike many of the other National Theatre at Home productions there are no big names in the cast , but there is plenty of stage acting experience .

The National Theatre has been a godsend for many during the coronavirus lockdown, streaming some of its most popular plays for free on its YouTube channel.
The National Theatre at Home scheme has already delivered the likes of Frankenstein, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, and Antony and Cleopatra, starring Ralph Fiennes, to our laptops.
And now it’s the turn of Inua Ellams’ heartwarming hit, Barber Shop Chronicles.
Here’s everything you need to know…
How to watch Barber Shop Chronicles at home
The production “live streamed” on the National Theatre’s YouTube channel at 7pm on Thursday 14 May.
The one-hour, 45-minute play is now available to watch at any time until 7pm on Thursday 21 May.
What’s it about?
The National Theatre synopsis says: “Newsroom, political platform, local hotspot, confession box, preacher-pulpit and football stadium. For generations, African men have gathered in barber shops to discuss the world. These are places where the banter can be barbed and the truth is always telling.
“Directed by Olivier award-winning director Bijan Sheibani, Barber Shop Chronicles is a heartwarming, hilarious and insightful new play that leaps from a barber shop in Peckham to Johannesburg, Harare, Kampala, Lagos and Accra over the course of a single day.”
The play had two sellout runs at the National Theatre, as well as a world tour and a successful summer residency at London’s Roundhouse.
This particular production was filmed in January 2018 and features the original cast.
Sheibani’s other directing credits include The Brothers Size, Our Class – for which he was nominated for the Best Director Olivier award in 2010 – and Gone Too Far!, which won the award for Outstanding Achievement in an Affiliate Theatre in 2008.
Who’s in the cast?
Unlike many of the other National Theatre at Home productions there are no big names in the cast, but there is plenty of stage acting experience.
Fisayo Akinade (The Girl with All the Gifts, A Midsummer Night’s Dream) plays Samuel, Wallace and Timothy.
Hammed Animashaun (Black Mirror, The Threepenny Opera) plays Mohammed, Tinashe, Kwabena and Brian.
Peter Bankole (Peaky Blinders, Casualty) plays Fabrice and Olawale.
Maynard Eziashi (Mister Johnson) plays Musa, Andile and Mensah.
Also among the cast are Sule Rimi, Simon Manyonda, Patrice Naiambana and David Webber.


inews--2020-05-16--National Theatre Live streaming: how to watch Barber Shop Chronicles on YouTube, and the full schedu

National Theatre Live streaming: how to watch Barber Shop Chronicles on YouTube, and the full schedule of free NT plays

National Theatre Live streaming : how to watch Barber Shop Chronicles on YouTube , and the full schedule of free NT plays A range of plays will be made available to stream via YouTube in April and May , continuing with Antony and Cleopatra Just like all entertainment outlets , theatres have had to close their doors per the Government 's guidelines amid the coronavirus pandemic .
However , the National Theatre is bringing the stage to the screen by streaming several iconic plays on YouTube every Thursday .
Explaining the reason for making the plays accessible to thousands free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` During this unprecedented time which has seen the closure of theatres , cinemas and schools , the National Theatre announces a new initiative National Theatre at Home providing access to content online to serve audiences in their homes .
Here 's all you need to know about the National Theatre shows that are streaming .
Theatres in London have been forced to close amid the Coronavirus pandemic ( Photo : Leon Neal/Getty Images ) How can I watch the National Theatre shows from home ?
During the lockdown , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ novel way for the public to still enjoy the best from the stage .
The best part of it all is that it 's free to watch .
Every Thursday at 7pm BST on the theatre 's official YouTube channel , fans will be able to stream a selection of performances for a week .
Barber Shop Chronicles is coming to National Theatre at Home ( Photo : National Theatre ) The National Theatre at Home initiative has won praise from fans for being given the chance to watch the plays for free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible by the various cast and crews of the plays who have waived their rights .
The executive director and joint chief executive of the National Theatre told the Guardian : `` Everyone has said yes .
Please .
Let ’ s get it out to people .
`` It has taken a bit of negotiation and management but the outpouring from the industry has been fantastic . ''
However , that 's not all the National Theatre has to offer as there will also be a selection of Q & As with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plays .

Just like all entertainment outlets, theatres have had to close their doors per the Government’s guidelines amid the coronavirus pandemic.
However, the National Theatre is bringing the stage to the screen by streaming several iconic plays on YouTube every Thursday.
Explaining the reason for making the plays accessible to thousands free of charge, a National Theatre spokesperson said: “During this unprecedented time which has seen the closure of theatres, cinemas and schools, the National Theatre announces a new initiative National Theatre at Home providing access to content online to serve audiences in their homes.
“Audiences around the world can stream NT Live productions for free via YouTube, and students and teachers have access to the National Theatre Collection at home.”
Here’s all you need to know about the National Theatre shows that are streaming.
How can I watch the National Theatre shows from home?
During the lockdown, the National Theatre has come up with a novel way for the public to still enjoy the best from the stage. The best part of it all is that it’s free to watch.
Every Thursday at 7pm BST on the theatre’s official YouTube channel, fans will be able to stream a selection of performances for a week.
The first show, which kicked things off on Thursday 2 April, was One Man, Two Guvnors featuring James Corden.
From Thursday 9 April until 16 April theatre lovers could stream Sally Cookson’s bold reimagining of Charlotte Bronte’s classic Jane Eyre.
The stage version of Robert Louis Stevenson’s iconic adventure novel Treasure Island, adapted by Bryony Lavery, showed from 16 April.
After that it was time for some Shakespeare with a staging of Twelfth Night starring Tamsin Grieg.
This was followed by Danny Boyle’s Frankenstein – starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller – which streamed until 8 May.
Next came Antony and Cleopatra, starring Ralph Fiennes as Antony and Sophie Okonedo as Cleopatra.
From Thursday 14 May – Thursday 21 May Inua Ellams’ Barber Shop Chronicles was available to stream.
Next came A Streetcar Named Desire, starring Gillian Anderson, and This House, from Quiz writer James Graham.
Shakespeare’s Coriolanus, starring Tom Hiddleston, The Madness of King George III and Small Island, an adaptation of Andrea Levy’s Orange Prize-winning novel, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream followed.
Les Blancs, starring Black Panther‘s Daniel Sapiani, came next and now The Deep Blue Sea, starring Helen McCrory, is streaming.
The National Theatre at Home initiative has won praise from fans for being given the chance to watch the plays for free. But it’s all been made possible by the various cast and crews of the plays who have waived their rights.
The executive director and joint chief executive of the National Theatre told the Guardian: “Everyone has said yes. Please. Let’s get it out to people.
“It has taken a bit of negotiation and management but the outpouring from the industry has been fantastic.”
National Theatre at Home schedule
Thursday 2 April: One Man Two Guvnors by Richard Bean
Thursday 9 April: Jane Eyre by Sally Cookson
Thursday 16 April: Treasure Island by Bryony Lavery
Thursday 23 April: Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare
Thursday 30 April: Frankenstein by Nick Dear
Thursday 7 May: Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare
Thursday 14 May: Barber Shop Chronicles by Inua Ellams
Thursday 21 May: A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
Thursday 28 May: This House by James Graham
Thursday 4 June: Coriolanus by William Shakespeare
Thursday 11 June: The Madness of George III by Alan Bennett
Thursday 18 June: Small Island by Helen Edmundson
Thursday 25 June: A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare
Thursday 2 July: Les Blancs by Lorraine Hansberry
Thursday 9 July: The Deep Blue Sea by Terence Rattigan
However, that’s not all the National Theatre has to offer as there will also be a selection of Q&As with the cast and creative teams of the plays.
What else?
In a bid to help schools, colleges and universities, the National Theatre has also released a new National Theatre Collection which “makes the best of British Theatre available worldwide to libraries, schools, universities and the wider education sector.”
The collection features productions from a range of theatres including the National Theatre, the Young Vic, Donmar Warehouse and Bridge Theatre.


inews--2020-05-16--Police officer to face criminal probe after man shot by Taser is 'left paralysed from waist down'

Police officer to face criminal probe after man shot by Taser is 'left paralysed from waist down' The 23-year-old man was shot with a stun gun while jumping over a wall as officers tried to detain him in Haringey , north London A police officer will be placed under a criminal investigation after shooting a man with a Taser , leaving him paralysed from the waist down .
The 23-year-old man was shot with a stun gun while jumping over a wall as officers tried to detain him in Haringey , north London .
The Independent Office for Police Conduct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and suffered serious injuries on 4 May .
He was arrested for drug-related offences , but has been in hospital ever since .
The officer , who served with the Metropolitan Police , will be asked by IOPC investigators to give a written account under caution for the alleged offence of causing grievous bodily harm .
Sal Naseem , from the IOPC , said : `` Having examined a range of evidence including body worn video , witness statements and medical evidence , we have taken the decision that this is now a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many people are concerned about this incident and I want to reassure people that this is being thoroughly and independently investigated . ''
The man 's family , who have asked to remain anonymous , are said to be devastated by the incident ( Photo : Getty ) The man 's family have asked not to be identified .
His sister told The Guardian : `` It is a tragic time for the family .
Emotions are high and there is a great deal of upset .
Life has completely changed .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand how this has happened . ''
Labour MP for the area , David Lammy , said : `` I ’ ve met with the family and there is definitely community concern about this incident .
We need a full and thorough investigation into how he has ended up with life-changing injuries . ''
The IOPC are expected to examine whether the use of the Taser weapon was lawful and proportionate .
They will also determine whether due regard was given to the risk posed by firing the stun gun at a suspect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Priti Patel pledged last year to drastically increase the number of police officers who carry Tasers , vowing to arm an additional 10.000 officers with the weapons .

A police officer will be placed under a criminal investigation after shooting a man with a Taser, leaving him paralysed from the waist down.
The 23-year-old man was shot with a stun gun while jumping over a wall as officers tried to detain him in Haringey, north London.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said the man fell and suffered serious injuries on 4 May. He was arrested for drug-related offences, but has been in hospital ever since.
The officer, who served with the Metropolitan Police, will be asked by IOPC investigators to give a written account under caution for the alleged offence of causing grievous bodily harm.
Criminal investigation
Sal Naseem, from the IOPC, said: “Having examined a range of evidence including body worn video, witness statements and medical evidence, we have taken the decision that this is now a criminal investigation.
“A criminal investigation does not mean that criminal charges will necessarily follow.
“We understand that many people are concerned about this incident and I want to reassure people that this is being thoroughly and independently investigated.”
‘Tragic time for the family’
The man’s family have asked not to be identified. His sister told The Guardian: “It is a tragic time for the family. Emotions are high and there is a great deal of upset. Life has completely changed. He is young. We can’t understand how this has happened.”
Labour MP for the area, David Lammy, said: “I’ve met with the family and there is definitely community concern about this incident. We need a full and thorough investigation into how he has ended up with life-changing injuries.”
The IOPC are expected to examine whether the use of the Taser weapon was lawful and proportionate. They will also determine whether due regard was given to the risk posed by firing the stun gun at a suspect climbing over a wall.
Home Secretary Priti Patel pledged last year to drastically increase the number of police officers who carry Tasers, vowing to arm an additional 10.000 officers with the weapons.
Additional reporting by Press Association


inews--2020-05-16--Battersea Dogs and Cats Home: How animals are being cared for during the coronavirus lockdown

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home : How animals are being cared for during the coronavirus lockdown Dogs are getting double daily walks and cats are receiving 'unlimited cuddles ' from a skeleton staff An unexpected positive to the coronavirus lockdown has been an improvement to the lives of the animals living at London 's Battersea Dogs and Cats Home .
Normally the south London charity looks after up to 400 animals across three sites , but is currently housing just 60 .
This is due to staff doubling rehoming efforts in the week leading up to lockdown , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Animals have been getting ' a lot of attention' Rob Young , head of centre operations , said : `` The animals are quite happy , the ratio of staff per animal is probably higher than it normally would be before the lockdown so all the dogs are getting at least two walks a day along with some socialisation , and all the cats are getting as many cuddles as they wish .
`` The dogs have n't been walked off site because we did n't want to risk it in that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paddocks , we 've got the green areas within the three centres [ London , Windsor and Brands Hatch ] as well , so they 've been getting a lot of attention .
They 've been quite happy . ''
Mr Young said the charity was `` inundated '' with requests to temporarily foster animals as lockdown restrictions were introduced , and said they were concerned some pets would no longer be wanted as vast numbers of people were urged to work from home .
He said : `` We were worried that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abandoned at our door because of the situation that people find themselves in , but we 've not seen that either .
`` I think we 've been pleasantly surprised with how the public have reacted quite responsibly and the great British public being the animal lovers that they are , I think they 've responded really well .
So we 're really pleased actually how it 's gone so far . ''
The remaining cats have been receiving 'unlimited cuddles ' ( Photo : Getty ) The charity has now received clearance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under strict conditions , while preparing to reopen properly when allowed to do so .
But despite the workaround , the pandemic has caused its revenue stream to be severely affected through a lack of key fundraising events such as marathons .
Mr Young said : `` We expect to lose an awful lot of money over the course of this year .
We think anything up to about £11 million over the next 12 months .
`` So we 're able to carry on functioning as we always would .
We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for our animals and look after our staff .

An unexpected positive to the coronavirus lockdown has been an improvement to the lives of the animals living at London‘s Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.
Dogs are getting double daily walks and cats are receiving “unlimited cuddles” from a skeleton staff, who are caring for significantly fewer animals than usual.
Normally the south London charity looks after up to 400 animals across three sites, but is currently housing just 60.
This is due to staff doubling rehoming efforts in the week leading up to lockdown, as well as sending 150 animals out for fostering.
Staff said the remaining animals have been enjoying the extra attention, as workers continue to care for them while following social distancing measures.
Animals have been getting ‘a lot of attention’
Rob Young, head of centre operations, said: “The animals are quite happy, the ratio of staff per animal is probably higher than it normally would be before the lockdown so all the dogs are getting at least two walks a day along with some socialisation, and all the cats are getting as many cuddles as they wish.
“Not all cats like a cuddle as you probably know.
“There’s no stress, with [fewer] trains going past the Battersea centre in London in particular.
“The dogs haven’t been walked off site because we didn’t want to risk it in that way. Otherwise we’ve got the paddocks, we’ve got the green areas within the three centres [London, Windsor and Brands Hatch] as well, so they’ve been getting a lot of attention. They’ve been quite happy.”
Mr Young said the charity was “inundated” with requests to temporarily foster animals as lockdown restrictions were introduced, and said they were concerned some pets would no longer be wanted as vast numbers of people were urged to work from home.
‘Inundated’ with foster requests
He said: “We were worried that we’d see a lot of animals abandoned at our door because of the situation that people find themselves in, but we’ve not seen that either.
“I think we’ve been pleasantly surprised with how the public have reacted quite responsibly and the great British public being the animal lovers that they are, I think they’ve responded really well. So we’re really pleased actually how it’s gone so far.”
The charity has now received clearance from Defra to begin rehoming animals, under strict conditions, while preparing to reopen properly when allowed to do so.
But despite the workaround, the pandemic has caused its revenue stream to be severely affected through a lack of key fundraising events such as marathons.
Hit financially by pandemic
Mr Young said: “We expect to lose an awful lot of money over the course of this year. We think anything up to about £11 million over the next 12 months.
“So we’re able to carry on functioning as we always would. We have enough reserves to be able to care for our animals and look after our staff.
“But obviously it is a concern that we aren’t able to fundraise like we used to do, the same as everybody else.”
Additional reporting by Press Association


inews--2020-05-16--Bulgaria Eurovision 2020 entry: Meet Victoria, whose song 'Tears Getting Sober' is tipped to win the

Bulgaria Eurovision 2020 entry: Meet Victoria, whose song 'Tears Getting Sober' is tipped to win the song contest

Bulgaria Eurovision 2020 entry : Meet Victoria , whose song 'Tears Getting Sober ' is tipped to win the song contest Victoria 's 'Tears Getting Sober ' is one of the 41 songs that is being showcased this Saturday during Eurovision : Europe Shine a Light The Eurovision Song Contest will not crown a winner this year , with the 2020 competition being cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic .
But if it had it may well have been the Bulgarian entry .
Victoria 's 'Tears Getting Sober ' is one of the 41 songs that is being showcased this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Light , the show organisers have created to replace the usual grand final .
And bookies had it as the favourite to take the crown before contest was forced to be scrapped .
Here is everything you need to know about the entry ... Victoria rose to fame by competing in the fourth season of the Bulgarian version of The X Factor .
She is due to release her first studio album later this year .
She is an animal lover - she owns four rescue dogs , two rabbits and a parrot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ songs .
Of representing Bulgaria at Eurovision , she said : `` In the beginning of 2019 , I just couldn ’ t imagine how many opportunities will open up for me .
`` I am privileged to be able to make music that I believe in and to have the freedom to be who I am .
Being the Bulgarian ambassador on such a huge stage is a big responsibility . ''
'Tears Getting Sober ' was tipped to win the contest ( Photo : YouTube ) Why was 'Tears Getting Sober @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not sound significant , but the network polls viewers from the Netherlands , Belgium , Sweden , Germany , Israel , Ireland , Austria , Luxembourg , the UK and Spain , and has predicted winners in the past .
Great , feel my head is taking over me10 déjà vus a dayand each time I 'm getting colder , pain , I should let it goYour lies burn like sugar in my woundsIn time my wound will be a scarStrained but my tears are getting sober nowand I 've been here before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on my shoulders , I 'm gon na let it goThis is my first time tryingLook how the tables turnI 've got this dirt inside meI 've got some space to growYour lies burn like sugar in my woundsSo I have sweet bruisesIn time I 'll forget what you have doneIn time my wound will be a scarMy pain will soon be overOh , how the tables turnTears are getting soberI got some space to growYour lies burn like sugar in my woundsSo I have sweet bruisesIn time I 'll forget what you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a scar

The Eurovision Song Contest will not crown a winner this year, with the 2020 competition being cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.
But if it had it may well have been the Bulgarian entry.
Victoria’s ‘Tears Getting Sober’ is one of the 41 songs that is being showcased this Saturday during Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light, the show organisers have created to replace the usual grand final.
And bookies had it as the favourite to take the crown before contest was forced to be scrapped.
Here is everything you need to know about the entry…
Who is Victoria?
Victoria rose to fame by competing in the fourth season of the Bulgarian version of The X Factor. She is due to release her first studio album later this year.
She is an animal lover – she owns four rescue dogs, two rabbits and a parrot – and writes all of her own songs.
Of representing Bulgaria at Eurovision, she said: “In the beginning of 2019, I just couldn’t imagine how many opportunities will open up for me.
“I am privileged to be able to make music that I believe in and to have the freedom to be who I am. Being the Bulgarian ambassador on such a huge stage is a big responsibility.”
Why was ‘Tears Getting Sober’ tipped to win?
Victoria and her emotional track came out on top Dutch TV station OutTV’s viewer poll.
That may not sound significant, but the network polls viewers from the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, Israel, Ireland, Austria, Luxembourg, the UK and Spain, and has predicted winners in the past.
‘Tears Getting Sober’ lyrics Great, feel my head is taking over me
10 déjà vus a day
and each time I’m getting colder,
pain, I should let it go
Your lies burn like sugar in my wounds
In time my wound will be a scar
Strained but my tears are getting sober now
and I’ve been here before so,
weight that I’m holding on my shoulders,
I’m gonna let it go
This is my first time trying
Look how the tables turn
I’ve got this dirt inside me
I’ve got some space to grow
Your lies burn like sugar in my wounds
So I have sweet bruises
In time I’ll forget what you have done
In time my wound will be a scar
My pain will soon be over
Oh, how the tables turn
Tears are getting sober
I got some space to grow
Your lies burn like sugar in my wounds
So I have sweet bruises
In time I’ll forget what you have done
In time my wound will be a scar
In fact, it predicted the last two winners – Duncan Laurence last year and Netta in 2018.
Bulgaria won both the online vote and also the international jury vote, which helped lead bookies to make it their early favourite to win the competition proper.


inews--2020-05-16--Eurovision 2020 BBC schedule: TV shows replacing cancelled song contest, from Come Together special

Eurovision 2020 BBC schedule: TV shows replacing cancelled song contest, from Come Together special to Shine A Light

Eurovision 2020 BBC schedule : TV shows replacing cancelled song contest , from Come Together special to Shine A Light Graham Norton and his fellow Eurovision pals will still bring the joy of the competition to our living rooms on 16 May Mid-March was a dark time for Eurovision fans , as the 2020 competition was cancelled due to the spread of coronavirus throughout Europe and , indeed , the entire world .
The final show was due to take place on 16 May in Rotterdam 's 16,000-capacity Ahoy Arena , but because of the ban on large public gatherings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision to postpone the event to 2021 .
But all is not lost , for the BBC have come to our rescue and scheduled a raft of programmes designed to bring the joy of Eurovision to our living rooms even without the live show .
Usual host Graham Norton will be joined by celeb fans of the competition to present a series of programmes to keep us all in high spirits .
Here are all the programmes on the way : Graham Norton asks viewers at home to vote for their favourite ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celeb fans and experts .
If Eleni Foureira and `` Fuego '' are not on this list , we riot .
James Newman was due to sing the UK 's Eurovision 2020 song , My Last Breath ( Photo : BBC ) Replacing the live show is this programme honouring all 41 of the songs entered this year .
Simulcasted across Europe at the same time , there 'll also be a 'virtual singalong ' from fancy-dressed fans and , of course , Norton 's cutting voiceover .
Rylan Clark-Neal guides any Eurovision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the competition 's 65-year history .
Everyone will know Abba , but are you familiar with the 2017 Italian gorilla man ?
A repeat of a 2007 episode of Top Of The Pops 2 , presented by Steve Wright .
Performing acts include Cliff Richard , Lulu , Bucks Fizz , Sandie Shaw , Brotherhood of Man , Johnny Logan and Abba .
A more traditional documentary format , first shown five years ago to celebrate the competition 's 60th anniversary .
Featuring interviews with the late Terry Wogan , Graham Norton and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the show share why the world has fallen in love with Eurovision .
Dana was Ireland 's first ever Eurovision winner ( Photo : BBC ) This Newsbeat documentary was supposed to document the UK entry , James Newman 's , road to Eurovision and started filming in February before the show was cancelled .
Now it sees James come to terms with the news and speak to other acts on the shocking decision .

Mid-March was a dark time for Eurovision fans, as the 2020 competition was cancelled due to the spread of coronavirus throughout Europe and, indeed, the entire world.
The final show was due to take place on 16 May in Rotterdam’s 16,000-capacity Ahoy Arena, but because of the ban on large public gatherings, the Eurovision committee made the difficult decision to postpone the event to 2021.
But all is not lost, for the BBC have come to our rescue and scheduled a raft of programmes designed to bring the joy of Eurovision to our living rooms even without the live show. Usual host Graham Norton will be joined by celeb fans of the competition to present a series of programmes to keep us all in high spirits.
Here are all the programmes on the way:
Eurovision Come Together
Saturday 16 May, 6:30pm, BBC1
Graham Norton asks viewers at home to vote for their favourite ever Eurovision performance from a shortlist curated by celeb fans and experts. If Eleni Foureira and “Fuego” are not on this list, we riot.
Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light
Saturday 16 May, 8pm, BBC1
Replacing the live show is this programme honouring all 41 of the songs entered this year. Simulcasted across Europe at the same time, there’ll also be a ‘virtual singalong’ from fancy-dressed fans and, of course, Norton’s cutting voiceover.
The A-Z of Eurovision
Saturday 16 May, 10pm, BBC2
Rylan Clark-Neal guides any Eurovision newbies through the highs and lows of the competition’s 65-year history. Everyone will know Abba, but are you familiar with the 2017 Italian gorilla man?
TOTP2 Goes Eurovision!
Saturday 16 May, 11pm, BBC2
A repeat of a 2007 episode of Top Of The Pops 2, presented by Steve Wright. Performing acts include Cliff Richard, Lulu, Bucks Fizz, Sandie Shaw, Brotherhood of Man, Johnny Logan and Abba.
Eurovision at 60
Friday 15 May, 9:30pm, BBC4
A more traditional documentary format, first shown five years ago to celebrate the competition’s 60th anniversary. Featuring interviews with the late Terry Wogan, Graham Norton and none other than Conchita Wurst, stars of the show share why the world has fallen in love with Eurovision.
Dana – The Original Derry Girl
Friday 15 May, 11pm, BBC4
The story of Ireland’s first ever Eurovision winner, 18-year-old Dana.
Eurovision 2020 – The Cancelled Coronavirus Year
Monday 11 May, BBC iPlayer
This Newsbeat documentary was supposed to document the UK entry, James Newman’s, road to Eurovision and started filming in February before the show was cancelled. Now it sees James come to terms with the news and speak to other acts on the shocking decision.


inews--2020-05-16--Russia Eurovision 2020 entry: Meet Little Big, whose song 'Uno' is tipped to win the Song Contest

Russia Eurovision 2020 entry : Meet Little Big , whose song 'Uno ' is tipped to win the Song Contest 'Uno ' , by pop-punk-rave band Little Big , has already racked up almost 100 million views on YouTube The coronavirus pandemic may have claimed the Eurovision Song Contest as one of its many victims , but organisers are doing their best to make sure the would-be competitors get their time in the spotlight .
On Saturday night Eurovision : Europe Shine a Light will air in place of the grand final , and will showcase each of the 41 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crown .
One of those songs is the Russian entry `` Uno '' , by pop-punk-rave band Little Big , which has already racked up almost 100 million views on YouTube .
The bouncy track , which is sung in a mix of English and Spanish , was one of the favourites to win the contest .
Who are Little Big ?
Their track `` SKIBIDI '' - and the dance that goes with it - quickly became the most popular meme in Russia when it was released back in 2018 , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Award for best music video .
Unsurprisingly given their past hits , the band do not take themselves too seriously .
Their videos often parody Russian stereotypes and they have a 2017 hit , `` Lollybomb '' , which mocks Kim-Jong Un .
It 's gon na take more than one margaritaI 'm gon na call you my sweet señoritaI 'm gon na leave after night only with yaAll you have to do is to be ready for some action nowDo n't be a dummy dummyI got dat yummy yummyCan we be chummy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you so funny honeyAll you have to do is to be ready for some action nowUnoDosCuatroUno unoAll you have to do is to be ready for some action nowAre you readyHold it steadyStart alreadyAll you have to do is to be ready for some action nowDo n't be a dummy dummyI got dat yummy yummyCan we be chummy chummyRight after midnightThe night is charming bunnyYou are so funny honeyAll you have to do is to be ready for some action nowUnoDosCuatroUno unoUno Dos Tres Cuatro Cinco SeisUnoDosCuatroUno uno They came up with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holiday together in February , and the song was announced as Russia 's Eurovision entry the following month .

The coronavirus pandemic may have claimed the Eurovision Song Contest as one of its many victims, but organisers are doing their best to make sure the would-be competitors get their time in the spotlight.
On Saturday night Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light will air in place of the grand final, and will showcase each of the 41 songs that would have competed for the crown.
One of those songs is the Russian entry “Uno”, by pop-punk-rave band Little Big, which has already racked up almost 100 million views on YouTube.
The bouncy track, which is sung in a mix of English and Spanish, was one of the favourites to win the contest.
Who are Little Big?
The group has been together since 2013, and consists of Ilia Prusikin (frontman), Sonya Tayurskaya (frontwoman), Anton Lissov (MC) and Sergey Makarov (DJ).
Their YouTube channel has amassed more than a billion views, thanks mostly to two previous viral hits.
Their track “SKIBIDI” – and the dance that goes with it – quickly became the most popular meme in Russia when it was released back in 2018, and also earned them the Global Film Festival Award for best music video.
And their 2019 single “I’m OK” generated similar internet fame after going viral on TikTok.
Unsurprisingly given their past hits, the band do not take themselves too seriously. Their videos often parody Russian stereotypes and they have a 2017 hit, “Lollybomb”, which mocks Kim-Jong Un.
‘Uno’ lyrics It’s gonna take more than one margarita
I’m gonna call you my sweet señorita
I’m gonna leave after night only with ya
All you have to do is to be ready for some action now
Don’t be a dummy dummy
I got dat yummy yummy
Can we be chummy chummy
Right after midnight
Yeah you so charming bunny
Yeah you so funny honey
All you have to do is to be ready for some action now
Uno
Dos
Cuatro
Uno uno
All you have to do is to be ready for some action now
Are you ready
Hold it steady
Start already
All you have to do is to be ready for some action now
Don’t be a dummy dummy
I got dat yummy yummy
Can we be chummy chummy
Right after midnight
The night is charming bunny
You are so funny honey
All you have to do is to be ready for some action now
Uno
Dos
Cuatro
Uno uno
Uno Dos Tres Cuatro Cinco Seis
Uno
Dos
Cuatro
Uno uno
They cite a wide range of influences, everything from Rammstein and The Prodigy, to composers like Mozart and Vivaldi.
They came up with the idea for “Uno” while on holiday together in February, and the song was announced as Russia’s Eurovision entry the following month.


inews--2020-05-16--Iceland Eurovision 2020 entry: Meet Daði og Gagnamagnið, whose song 'Think About Things' is tipped t

Iceland Eurovision 2020 entry: Meet Daði og Gagnamagnið, whose song 'Think About Things' is tipped to win Song Contest

The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the many unfortunately casualties of the coronavirus pandemic .
This year 's competition has been cancelled and replaced with a kind of supermarket substitute , Eurovision : Europe Shine a Light , which will air in place of the grand final and highlight the 41 songs which would have battled for the crown in Rotterdam .
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i 's TV newsletter : what you should watch next i 's TV newsletter : what you should watch next One of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the finals to capture the imagination , however .
Iceland 's entry , 'Think About Things ' by Daði & Gagnamagnið , has already become something of an internet sensation , particularly on TikTok .
Daði Freyr Pétursson is an Icelandic musician who lives in Berlin , and Gagnamagnið are the band who accompany him .
The 27-year-old goes by either Daði or Daði Freyr , and was little known before making his bid to represent Iceland at Eurovision .
Baby I ca n't wait to knowBelieve me I 'll always be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ youI find it hard to see how you feel about me'Cause I do n't understand youOh you are yet to learn how to speak When we first metI will never forget'Cause even though I did n't know you yetWe were bound together then and foreverAnd I could never let you go Baby I ca n't wait to knowWhat do you think about thingsBelieve me I will always be there soYou can tell me anything and I 'll listen When we are togetherThere is n't anywhere that I would rather beThree birds of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's been some timeAnd though hard to define , As if the stars have started to alignWe are bound together , Now and foreverAnd I will never let you go Baby I ca n't wait to knowWhat do you think about thingsBelieve me I will always be there soYou can tell me anything and I 'll listen I might even know what to sayBut either way at least I 'll be there Baby I ca n't wait to knowWhat do you think about thingsBelieve me I will always be there soYou can @ @ @ @ @ @ @

The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the many unfortunately casualties of the coronavirus pandemic.
This year’s competition has been cancelled and replaced with a kind of supermarket substitute, Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light, which will air in place of the grand final and highlight the 41 songs which would have battled for the crown in Rotterdam.
One of those songs did not even need the publicity of the finals to capture the imagination, however.
Iceland’s entry, ‘Think About Things’ by Daði & Gagnamagnið, has already become something of an internet sensation, particularly on TikTok.
Why? Because it’s unbelievably catchy.
Who are Daði & Gagnamagnið?
Daði Freyr Pétursson is an Icelandic musician who lives in Berlin, and Gagnamagnið are the band who accompany him.
The 27-year-old goes by either Daði or Daði Freyr, and was little known before making his bid to represent Iceland at Eurovision.
‘Think Abut Things’ lyrics Baby I can’t wait to know
Believe me I’ll always be there so Though I know I love you
I find it hard to see how you feel about me
‘Cause I don’t understand you
Oh you are yet to learn how to speak When we first met
I will never forget
‘Cause even though I didn’t know you yet
We were bound together then and forever
And I could never let you go Baby I can’t wait to know
What do you think about things
Believe me I will always be there so
You can tell me anything and I’ll listen When we are together
There isn’t anywhere that I would rather be
Three birds of a feather
I just hope you enjoy our company It’s been some time
And though hard to define,
As if the stars have started to align
We are bound together,
Now and forever
And I will never let you go Baby I can’t wait to know
What do you think about things
Believe me I will always be there so
You can tell me anything and I’ll listen I might even know what to say
But either way at least I’ll be there Baby I can’t wait to know
What do you think about things
Believe me I will always be there so
You can tell me anything and I’ll listen
He first tried to earn a place at Eurovision 2017 with the song ‘Hvað með það?’, which translates to ‘Is This Love?’, which he performed with his wife Árný Fjóla Ásmundsdóttir and Gagnamagnið.
However, they finished in second place to Svala Björgvinsdóttir and her song ‘Paper’.
How was ‘Think About Things’ selected?
Daði & Gagnamagnið had to beat out four other acts to earn the now defunct nomination.
They saw off Ísold and Helga, Nína and Iva in the semi-finals, before beating heavy metal band DIMMA and their song ‘Almyrkvi’ in the final.
The song quickly became a fan favourite, with many touting them as possible Eurovision winners.
It even drew the attention of Gladiator star Russell Crowe, and British band Hot Chip have already released a remix.
How can I listen?
The song is available on YouTube, as well as major streaming sites including Spotify and Apple Music.


inews--2020-05-16--Eurovision 2020: Europe Shine a Light: when the special is on BBC One, how it will work and if Graha

Eurovision 2020: Europe Shine a Light: when the special is on BBC One, how it will work and if Graham Norton is hosting

Eurovision 2020 : Europe Shine a Light : when the special is on BBC One , how it will work and if Graham Norton is hosting All 41 songs which would have competed will be showcased , as well as special performances from past winners The Eurovision Song Contest as we know it may have fallen victim to the coronavirus pandemic , but the organisers are making sure we wo n't have to endure a 2020 totally devoid of its bizarre lyrics and outlandish outfits .
And to top off the night , all 41 acts will come together , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a rendition of 1997 winner 'Love Shine a Light ' by Katrina and the Waves .
The acts who would have competed in the 2020 contest ( Photo : Eurovision ) When is Eurovision : Europe Shine a Light on TV ?
What can we expect ?
The main goal of the night is to highlight the 41 acts and songs that would have battled it out to become the Eurovision 2020 winner .
Sietse Bakker , executive producer , said : `` We want to make a show that puts a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that were due to appear in Rotterdam but also inspire those at home and connect people from across Europe and beyond in these difficult times .
`` Of course , we will also honour those who are affected by the coronavirus crisis and those who work so hard to fight it .
Let ’ s make this an unforgettable moment in Eurovision history ! ''

The Eurovision Song Contest as we know it may have fallen victim to the coronavirus pandemic, but the organisers are making sure we won’t have to endure a 2020 totally devoid of its bizarre lyrics and outlandish outfits.
Saturday 16 May would have been the grand final, but taking its place is a special showcase show, Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light.
The show will put a spotlight on the 41 songs which never got a chance to compete for the crown in 2020.
There will also be special performances from past winners and beloved contestants from Eurovision’s past.
And to top off the night, all 41 acts will come together, from their separate locations across Europe, for a rendition of 1997 winner ‘Love Shine a Light’ by Katrina and the Waves.
Here’s everything you need to know…
When is Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light on TV?
The two-hour show is being live streamed across Europe, both by public service broadcasters and the Eurovision YouTube channel.
UK viewers will only be able to watch on BBC One, starting at 7pm on Saturday.
What can we expect?
The main goal of the night is to highlight the 41 acts and songs that would have battled it out to become the Eurovision 2020 winner.
Sietse Bakker, executive producer, said: “We want to make a show that puts a spotlight not only on the 41 artists that were due to appear in Rotterdam but also inspire those at home and connect people from across Europe and beyond in these difficult times.
“Of course, we will also honour those who are affected by the coronavirus crisis and those who work so hard to fight it. Let’s make this an unforgettable moment in Eurovision history!”
The night will be hosted by Dutch trio Chantal Janzen (Eurovision 1998), Edsilia Rombleyand (2007) and Jan Smit, with appearances from Graham Norton and YouTuber NikkieTutorials.
And there will be a number of special performances, including:


inews--2020-05-16--Why is Australia in Eurovision? When they joined the song contest, and what happens if their entry w

Why is Australia in Eurovision? When they joined the song contest, and what happens if their entry wins

Why is Australia in Eurovision ?
When they joined the song contest , and what happens if their entry wins 2020 would have been the sixth time Australia took to the Eurovision stage , before the song contest was cancelled There , the pinnacle of European musical talent ( in some cases ) would have assembled for the final on 16 May - as well as a couple of acts from further afield , such as Australia .
This would n't have ben the first year the Aussies had performed in the show - they 've become a fixture in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ included , and if they won , would next year 's show be moved all the way Down Under ?
Australia Decides : Kate Miller-Heidke was chosen to represent Australia at Eurovision 2019 ( Photo : SBS ) Why Australia is allowed to compete too ?
This would have been the sixth year Australia would have been allowed to compete , as the first time they grabbed a mic and a spangly outfit was back in 2015 .
On 10 February 2015 , the EBU announced that in honour of the 60th anniversary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to participate in the finals of the contest , represented by Special Broadcasting Service ( SBS ) .
The theme for this show was 'Building Bridges ' .
SBS had been a long-time broadcaster of the event , which has had a large following in Australia , and the Australian entry - sung by Guy Sebastian - was placed directly in the grand final .
Mel Giedroyc explained on BBC 's Eurovision : You Decide : `` The simple fact is , Australia ’ s host TV broadcaster SBS is part of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EBU .
`` And this is a qualification requirement for entering the Eurovision Song Contest .
So that ’ s why we ’ ll see them in May . ''
The EBU considered the possibility of similarly inviting countries to participate in future editions of the contest .
Australia 's participation brought the number of the finalists up to 27 , the highest number of entries in a final in the contest 's history , which is why the event has got longer over the years .
After 2015 , Australia were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the following years on a case by case basis .
On February 12 , 2019 , Eurovision confirmed that Australia has secured a spot in the competition for the next five years until 2023 .
United Kingdom 's Michael Rice poses during the Red Carpet ceremony for the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv ( Photo : Jack Guez/AFP/Getty Images ) What happens to the show if Australia win it ?
In the event that Australia should win the Eurovision Song Contest , the European Broadcasting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules , Australia would not host the event in the southern hemisphere , and instead would co-host the contest within a country in the EBU .
Further to the EBU 's statement , it was confirmed that Germany and their broadcaster Norddeutscher Rundfunk ( NDR ) would be the first choice , and the UK and the BBC being the back-up hosts should Germany decline .
With the UK 's traiditional form in the contest , it looks like the only way this trophy will be coming to Britain any time soon is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pass on hosting it .

The Eurovision 2022 final takes place on Saturday night, with fans around the world gearing up for one of the glitziest TV nights of the year.
While barbed one-liners from Graham Norton are usually the highlight for British fans, this year’s UK entry Sam Ryder has been tipped (genuinely) as a potential winner.
There are a pair of high-profile absentees this year in the form of Russia and Belarus, although Ukraine’s entry has been able to travel to Turin and is the firm favourite to claim the trophy.
One unexpected nation that has become something of a fixture in recent years is Australia, despite the fact that it’s very obviously not in Europe – here’s why they can enter Eurovision.
Why is Australia in Eurovision?
On 10 February 2015, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced that in honour of the 60th anniversary of Eurovision, it had invited Australia to participate in the finals of the contest. The decision, expected at the time to be a one-off, was in keeping with the theme that year, which was Building Bridges.
Australian broadcaster SBS has aired the event since 1983, and it has built a significant following Down Under.
Countries are usually eligible to take part if their broadcaster is a member of the EBU and broadcasts within a pre-defined “European Broadcasting Area” – a deliberately over-expansive region that also covers swathes of the Middle East and North Africa.
The quirk means Eurovision has seen entries from Israel and Morocco over the years, while nations as far afield as Syria and Egypt could technically take part in the future if they wanted. Even the loosest definition of “Europe”, however, would logically preclude Australia, but the EBU agreed to waive the rules to allow the nation to take part.
Sheldon Riley, who is performing the song ‘Not the Same’ at Eurovision 2022 (Photo: Reuters)
Australia’s participation brought the number of the finalists to 27, the highest number of entries in a final in the contest’s history.
After a top-five finish in 2015, Australia was invited back the next year, when it placed second.
The continued success of Australia at the contest led to several more decisions to invite them back on a case-by-case basis – until, in 2019, Eurovision bosses confirmed that Australia would be allowed to stay in the contest until at least 2023.
In its first year of entry, the Australian entry – sung by Guy Sebastian – was placed directly in the grand final but, since then, the country’s entry has had to qualify through the semi-finals, winning the heats in 2016 and 2019.
Australia has only ever failed to make the grand final on one occasion so far, in 2021.
What happens if Australia wins?
Australia’s highest placing at the Eurovision final so far came in 2016, when Dami Im came second with “Sound of Silence”.
In the event that Australia should win, the EBU confirmed that, in accordance with the rules, Australia would not host the event in the southern hemisphere. Instead, it would have to nominate a co-host nation from Europe.
At the time, it was thought Germany would be the first choice, with the UK and the BBC being the back-up hosts should Germany decline. Other broadcasters have since voiced their interest in co-hosting the contest if Australia wins, however.
Who is Australia’s 2022 Eurovision entry Sheldon Riley?
Australia is being represented in the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest by Sheldon Riley, who is performing the song “Not the Same”.
The 23-year-old first came to national attention with an appearance on The X Factor Australia in 2016.
Initially entering as a solo artist, he was later drafted into a boy band made up of eliminated solo singers, which was voted off in the first week of live shows.
Two years later, he took part in The Voice Australia, when he was mentored by Boy George.
He fared better in his second stab at reality TV stardom, reaching the grand final and eventually finishing third, and returned the show in 2019 as an all-start contestsnt.
In 2020, he entered American’s Got Talent, where he was eliminated in the third quarter-final of the series.
Given his talent show pedigree, it’s little surprise that he put himself forward for Eurovision – Australia Decides, where his triumph earned him a spot at this year’s song contest.


inews--2020-05-16--Contact tracing jobs: how to apply to be a tracer for UK Government's coronavirus app - and the loca

Contact tracing jobs: how to apply to be a tracer for UK Government's coronavirus app - and the locations where roles are based

Contact tracing jobs : how to apply to be a tracer for UK Government 's coronavirus app - and the locations where roles are based Dozens of job adverts are being posted online , as the government approaches its deadline to recruit thousands of contact tracers .
The job requires you to work from home and to call people who are infected with Covid-19 .
( Credit : Shutterstock ) Several job postings have recently appeared for contract tracer roles , who are being recruited to warn people who have been exposed to Covid-19 .
On 23 April , health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to recruit 18,000 contact tracers by the middle of May , adding that the positions should be filled just before the NHS tracing app goes live later in the month .
What are the job requirements ?
The job requires you to work from home and to call people who are infected with Covid-19 .
It also requires you to telephone all of the people they have recently been in close contact with .
A job listing for a “ Contact Tracer Customer Service Advisor ” on CV Library , posted by Workforce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ require you “ to update the in-house system and be able to record accurate data ” as well as “ show empathy and compassion at all times ” .
You will be required to answer calls as well as make them and the role suits those with a customer service , care or retail background .
The work is expected to be completed in shifts , from Monday to Sunday , between 8am and 8pm .
How long are the roles required for ?
However the advert also states the job has the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact tracers are likely going to be a “ long-term requirement due to the current pandemic ” .
While the adverts state that you will begin the work from home , adhering to the government guidance , some adverts have suggested office working will be introduced after the initial 12 weeks .
This therefore restricts who can apply , as you will need to be able to commute to the office when lockdown measures are lifted .
Where are the jobs located ?
The contract tracer jobs are currently being advertised for London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester , Milton Keynes , Newcastle-under-Lyme and Redditch , to name a few .
Where can I apply for the jobs ?
Job sites such as Indeed , CV library , as well as LinkedIn began listing the advertisements from third party recruiters within the last few days .
The job postings are also being advertised by independent recruiters and can be found with a google search using the search term “ contact tracer jobs ” .
How much does it pay ?
The compensation for the job is £9.42 per hour , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimum wage .
These people will work as advisers and will be responsible for the more complex cases as well as conducting public health risk assessments .

Numerous job listings have appeared for contract tracer roles in recent weeks, which are being recruited to warn people who have been exposed to Covid-19.
On 23 April, health secretary, Matt Hancock, announced plans to hire 18,000 contact tracers, explaining that the positions should be filled just before the NHS tracing app launches.
But, Boris Johnson increased this announcing in parliament that 25,000 contact tracers will be employed and ready to track 10,000 new cases of the virus a day by 1 June.
A version of the app was launched on the Isle of Wight on May 5, but the UK’s Track and Trace chief Dido Harding has refused to put a timeline on when it will be shared with the rest of the country.
What are the job requirements?
The job requires you to work from home and to call people who are infected with Covid-19.
It also requires you to telephone all of the people they have recently been in close contact with.
A job listing for a “Contact Tracer Customer Service Advisor” on CV Library, posted by Workforce Staffing Ltd, states the job will require you “to update the in-house system and be able to record accurate data” as well as “show empathy and compassion at all times”.
You will be required to answer calls as well as make them and the role suits those with a customer service, care or retail background.
The work is expected to be completed in shifts, from Monday to Sunday, between 8am and 8pm.
How long are the roles required for?
The advert posted by Workforce Staffing Ltd states the role is initially a “12 week assignment”.
However the advert also states the job has the potential to become a permanent role as contact tracers are likely going to be a “long-term requirement due to the current pandemic”.
While the adverts state that you will begin the work from home, adhering to the government guidance, some adverts have suggested office working will be introduced after the initial 12 weeks.
This therefore restricts who can apply, as you will need to be able to commute to the office when lockdown measures are lifted.
Where are the jobs located?
The contract tracer jobs are currently being advertised for London, Liverpool, Hull, Birmingham, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Redditch, to name a few.
Where can I apply for the jobs?
Job sites such as Indeed,Google jobs, CV library, as well as LinkedIn began listing the advertisements from third party recruiters.
The job postings are also being advertised by independent recruiters and can be found with a google search using the search term “contact tracer jobs”.
How much does it pay?
The compensation for the job is £9.42 per hour, which is slightly higher than the national minimum wage.
Read more: Coronavirus latest: More than four million workers fear they will lose their jobs in the next three months
‘Virtual front line’
Out of the soon-to-be-recruited contact tracers, 3,000 will be from a skilled background.
These people will work as advisers and will be responsible for the more complex cases as well as conducting public health risk assessments.
Such roles are also being advertised with the title of “Clinical Contact Caseworker”, asking skilled professionals to join the ‘virtual frontline’.
These roles have been advertised on sites such as Reed, since the start of May 2020 by NHS Professionals.
Clinical Contact Caseworker roles pay a salary of £16.97 to £27.15 per hour and requires applicants to be on a Clinician Band 6 level or above.