inews--2020-05-02--Coronavirus latest: Testing boss denies using creative accounting to help reach 100,000 target

Coronavirus latest : Testing boss denies using creative accounting to help reach 100,000 target Government claimed 122,347 tests were carried out on the last day of April Health Secretary Matt Hancock who had committed the Government to the target of 100,000 daily tests by the end of April declared victory on Friday , with official statistics showing 122,347 tests were carried out .
However , the Government faced accusations that the numbers had been fudged to meet the target , by including more than 40,000 sampling kits posted out to people 's homes and to `` satellite testing locations '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returned and processed .
He told Radio 4 's Today programme : `` Now it 's a big number however you count , it and we don ’ t want to get too hung up on the targets .
`` All the tests are only counted once , and you can count tests when they go out or when they come back in , and whichever way you do it we still meet the target .
“ These are the sort of discussions you get when politicians set targets but what we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people need and the home delivery kits are essential , for example , to support contact tracing . ''
He added : `` The home kits are very popular , it ’ s what people ask for , and they ’ re an extremely important part of the programme , so we make no apologies for counting those and being proud of the fact that we have built up that capacity . ''
Professor Newton said the roll-out of home testing kits were responsible for a rapid rise in the testing figures - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Hancock 's self-imposed deadline .
He added : `` One of the reasons it has taken a little while to get the home delivery method up and running is because we have been testing it .
`` In the drive-in centres , we 've tested whether people could test themselves in their cars or whether they were tested by somebody trained and we found the results were exactly the same , so that gave us confidence that the home testing was a good approach . ''
Thousands have been tested in drive-through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images ) Speaking at Downing Street 's daily press briefing on Friday , Mr Hancock said : `` I knew that it was an audacious goal , but we needed an audacious goal , because testing is so important for getting Britain back on its feet .
I can announce we have met our goal .
He continued : `` This unprecedented expansion in testing capability is an incredible national achievement , and the capacity that we built together will help every single person in this country . ''

The Government’s testing boss has denied accusations that statistical tricks were used to meet the target of 100,000 coronavirus tests a day.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock who had committed the Government to the target of 100,000 daily tests by the end of April declared victory on Friday, with official statistics showing 122,347 tests were carried out.
However, the Government faced accusations that the numbers had been fudged to meet the target, by including more than 40,000 sampling kits posted out to people’s homes and to “satellite testing locations” – whether or not they have been returned and processed.
On Saturday, national testing coordinator Professor John Newton insisted that no matter matter how the tests were counted, the Government had met its target.
‘We met the target’
He told Radio 4’s Today programme: “Now it’s a big number however you count, it and we don’t want to get too hung up on the targets.
“All the tests are only counted once, and you can count tests when they go out or when they come back in, and whichever way you do it we still meet the target.
“These are the sort of discussions you get when politicians set targets but what we’re focusing on really is delivering what people need and the home delivery kits are essential, for example, to support contact tracing.”
He added: “The home kits are very popular, it’s what people ask for, and they’re an extremely important part of the programme, so we make no apologies for counting those and being proud of the fact that we have built up that capacity.”
Slow to start
Professor Newton said the roll-out of home testing kits were responsible for a rapid rise in the testing figures – which quadrupled in the final week before Mr Hancock’s self-imposed deadline.
He added: “One of the reasons it has taken a little while to get the home delivery method up and running is because we have been testing it.
“In the drive-in centres, we’ve tested whether people could test themselves in their cars or whether they were tested by somebody trained and we found the results were exactly the same, so that gave us confidence that the home testing was a good approach.”
Speaking at Downing Street’s daily press briefing on Friday, Mr Hancock said: “I knew that it was an audacious goal, but we needed an audacious goal, because testing is so important for getting Britain back on its feet. I can announce we have met our goal.
He continued: “This unprecedented expansion in testing capability is an incredible national achievement, and the capacity that we built together will help every single person in this country.”
Three “mega-labs” were opened in Alderley Park, Milton Keynes and Glasgow to increase testing capacity, and they enabled tens of thousands more to be conducted each day.
The UK also significantly expanded efforts to collect samples for testing, implementing drive-through sites and home sample kits for essential workers, people aged 65, and those who cannot work from home.


inews--2020-05-02--Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds name their baby boy after the doctors who saved the Prime Minister'

Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds name their baby boy after the doctors who saved the Prime Minister's life

Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds name their baby boy after the doctors who saved the Prime Minister 's life Ms Symonds announced the full title of her and the Prime Minister 's child , who was born earlier this week , via a post on Instagram Ms Symonds announced the full name of her and the Prime Minister 's child , who was born on Wednesday , via a post on Instagram .
The name Wilfred has been given to the child after Mr Johnson 's grandfather , and Lawrie after Ms Symonds 's grandfather .
Nicholas , however , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treated the Prime Minister when he was admitted to hospital with Covid-19 in April .
“ Wilfred after Boris ' grandfather , Lawrie after my grandfather , Nicholas after Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick Hart - the two doctors that saved Boris ' life last month .
“ Thank you so , so much to the incredible NHS maternity team at UCLH that looked after us so well .
I could n't be happier .
My heart is full . ''
A spokesperson for the couple said at the time : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thrilled to announce the birth of a healthy baby boy at a London hospital earlier this morning .
“ Both mother and baby are doing very well .
The PM and Miss Symonds would like to thank the fantastic NHS maternity team . ''
Carrie Symonds and Boris Johnson were last pictured together at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey on 9 March ( Photo : Dan Kitwood/Getty ) Mr Johnson was in hospital for a week before being discharged to recuperate at his country home Chequers .
He was only deemed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Downing Street on Monday .
The Prime Minister has previously suggested he would take paternity leave , but due to the coronavirus crisis , Downing Street has said he will `` take a short period of paternity leave later in the year , rather than now.
” Tony Blair 's wife Cherie gave birth to son Leo in May 2000 , three years after her husband 's first election victory , and David Cameron and wife Samantha welcomed daughter Florence in 2010 .
The baby boy is Ms Symonds ' first child .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ least six children - four in his previous marriage to Marina Wheeler , a daughter thought to have been born to art dealer Helen Macintyre , and his new baby with Ms Symonds .

Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds have named their baby boy Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson.
Ms Symonds announced the full name of her and the Prime Minister’s child, who was born on Wednesday, via a post on Instagram.
The name Wilfred has been given to the child after Mr Johnson’s grandfather, and Lawrie after Ms Symonds’s grandfather. Nicholas, however, was given after the two doctors who treated the Prime Minister when he was admitted to hospital with Covid-19 in April.
“Introducing Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson born on 29.04.20 at 9am,” Ms Symonds captioned the Instagram post.
“Wilfred after Boris’ grandfather, Lawrie after my grandfather, Nicholas after Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick Hart – the two doctors that saved Boris’ life last month.
“Thank you so, so much to the incredible NHS maternity team at UCLH that looked after us so well. I couldn’t be happier. My heart is full.”
A rollercoaster pregnancy
The couple announced on Wednesday that Ms Symonds had given birth to a boy.
A spokesperson for the couple said at the time: “The Prime Minister and Miss Symonds are thrilled to announce the birth of a healthy baby boy at a London hospital earlier this morning.
“Both mother and baby are doing very well. The PM and Miss Symonds would like to thank the fantastic NHS maternity team.”
The birth came just two weeks after Mr Johnson was discharged from intensive care.
Ms Symonds also suffered symptoms of the disease but did not require hospital treatment.
Mr Johnson was in hospital for a week before being discharged to recuperate at his country home Chequers. He was only deemed well enough to return to work in Downing Street on Monday.
The Prime Minister has previously suggested he would take paternity leave, but due to the coronavirus crisis, Downing Street has said he will “take a short period of paternity leave later in the year, rather than now.”
He did not take part in Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday at noon.
Third Downing Street baby
The new arrival is the third baby born to a serving prime minister in recent history.
Tony Blair’s wife Cherie gave birth to son Leo in May 2000, three years after her husband’s first election victory, and David Cameron and wife Samantha welcomed daughter Florence in 2010.
The baby boy is Ms Symonds’ first child. Mr Johnson is believed to have at least six children – four in his previous marriage to Marina Wheeler, a daughter thought to have been born to art dealer Helen Macintyre, and his new baby with Ms Symonds.
However, Mr Johnson has refused to answer questions about how many children he has.


inews--2020-05-02--VE Day bunting ideas: how to make your own Union Jack decorations, and where to buy it for celebrati

VE Day bunting ideas: how to make your own Union Jack decorations, and where to buy it for celebrations

VE Day bunting ideas : how to make your own Union Jack decorations , and where to buy it for celebrations Nationwide plans had been drawn up to mark the anniversary of Victory in Europe day at the end of World War Two Nationwide plans had been drawn up to mark the anniversary of Victory in Europe day at the end of World War Two – but they have had to be scrapped because of the coronavirus lockdown .
Now people across the country are being urged to host a ‘ stay at home street party ’ – and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The idea is for neighbours in streets across Britain will come out to drape their homes in flags and bunting – and then enjoy the festivities while observing Government guidelines on social distancing , staying at least two metres apart from others , and not gathering in groups .
How can I make my own bunting ?
Director of BBC England Helen Thomas said : “ Although people can ’ t celebrate in the way they had perhaps hoped to , we can still brighten up the streets with this special initiative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” So just how can you make your own bunting to inject a little bit of colour into proceedings ?
To get started , you ’ ll need some materials on hand , but these can be anything from paper , cereal boxes , string , ribbon , sweet wrappers , felt pens , poster paint or whatever you can find .
“ You can decorate your bunting with pictures of whatever inspires you , ” say the BBC , “ whether it ’ s those who fought on the frontline or worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s a celebration of enduring peace or your own personal hero.
” Lance Bombardier Parkinson , who lost both legs and suffered brain damage when the armoured Land Rover he was travelling in hit a mine in Helmand Province in 2006 , is backing the campaign .
In a video posted online by the BBC , he said : “ I want you to join me and make great British bunting.
” Where can I get Union Jack flags ?
If you ’ d rather get your decorations in pre-made , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will reward you with both Union Jack bunting and flags in abundance .
What else is happening to commemorate VE Day ?

This weekend sees a slightly reworked early May bank holiday, as the traditional break is moved to Friday 8 May in honour of the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
Nationwide plans had been drawn up to mark the anniversary of Victory in Europe day at the end of World War Two – but they have had to be scrapped because of the coronavirus lockdown.
Now people across the country are being urged to host a ‘stay at home street party’ – and to celebrate the date with socially distanced activities.
Organisers want people to decorate their home in red, white and blue – and enjoy a picnic in their front garden.
The idea is for neighbours in streets across Britain will come out to drape their homes in flags and bunting – and then enjoy the festivities while observing Government guidelines on social distancing, staying at least two metres apart from others, and not gathering in groups.
How can I make my own bunting?
One of the initiatives put forward in aid of VE Day is the BBC’s Make A Difference campaign.
Everyone is asked to show off their bunting displays on social media using the hashtags #GreatBritishBunting and #VEDay75.
Director of BBC England Helen Thomas said: “Although people can’t celebrate in the way they had perhaps hoped to, we can still brighten up the streets with this special initiative in tribute to our VE Day heroes.”
So just how can you make your own bunting to inject a little bit of colour into proceedings?
The simplest method in this instance is track down the bunting template pack can be downloaded online at www.bbc.co.uk/makeadifference.
To get started, you’ll need some materials on hand, but these can be anything from paper, cereal boxes, string, ribbon, sweet wrappers, felt pens, poster paint or whatever you can find.
“You can decorate your bunting with pictures of whatever inspires you,” say the BBC, “whether it’s those who fought on the frontline or worked hard on the Homefront, or whether it’s a celebration of enduring peace or your own personal hero.”
Lance Bombardier Parkinson, who lost both legs and suffered brain damage when the armoured Land Rover he was travelling in hit a mine in Helmand Province in 2006, is backing the campaign.
In a video posted online by the BBC, he said: “I want you to join me and make great British bunting.”
Showing bunting he has created, he says: “If I can do this, anyone can.”
Where can I get Union Jack flags?
If you’d rather get your decorations in pre-made, a quick search of the usual retailers will reward you with both Union Jack bunting and flags in abundance.
Or should that be, in ‘abuntance’?
For instance, Amazon is currently selling this 32ft red, white and blue bunting for £6.99.
This full-size, 5ft flag is available for £3.95, and you can even get a flag-based table cover.
What else is happening to commemorate VE Day?
Despite the current restrictions, VE Day looks set to be a packed day of events and activities to honour the historical anniversary.
At 11am, a two-minute national silence will be held to remember the declaration of victory and the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Between 2.45 and 3.45pm, the first of two special BBC One programmes to mark VE75 will be broadcast, an including extract from Sir Winston Churchill’s victory speech.
Throughout the afternoon, Britons are encouraged to hold 1940s-style afternoon tea parties at home rather than street parties, including their homemade bunting and recipes from the era.
The Queen will then address the nation at 9pm, followed by national doorstep rendition of Dame Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’.


inews--2020-05-02--Britain's Got Talent 2020: what time BGT is on ITV tonight, judges and how the live shows are affect

Britain's Got Talent 2020: what time BGT is on ITV tonight, judges and how the live shows are affected by coronavirus

Britain 's Got Talent 2020 : what time BGT is on ITV tonight , judges and how the live shows are affected by coronavirus ITV has confirmed that the show will be back but the live shows wo n't air until much later in the year In the past few weeks , several TV shows have postponed filming , while live TV shows have had to film without an audience and have had to implement social distancing .
In the aftermath of ITV 's decision to postpone The Voice 's live semi-final and final until later in the year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Talent would follow the same format .
The auditions , which were filmed earlier this year , are now airing , with the live shows - originally due to be broadcast in May - delayed until later this year .
The Britain 's Got Talent auditions are now airing ( Photo : ITV ) When is Britain 's Got Talent on TV ?
How has coronavirus impacted Britain 's Got Talent ?
The live aspect of Britain 's Got Talent has had to be adapted to stay in line with the latest government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grand final will not air until later this year .
A Britain 's Got Talent spokesperson said in a statement : `` We have been working with the brilliant production teams at Thames and Syco to find a way of making the live finals work , which were due to be broadcast at the end of May .
`` However , in light of the latest government health guidelines and in line with our priority of safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved in our programmes , production of the live shows can not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on her Heart radio breakfast show , Holden said : `` I mean I think that Ant and Dec did an amazing job of Takeaway on Saturday but I ’ m not sure our show , I think our show would suffer quite badly from not having a proper audience .
`` I ’ m hoping we can still strip it , strip means we sort of do it every single day like we used to or we might end up doing it over the weekends but it ’ s all still in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s for the best . ''
Believing that the show will return in the Autumn , Holden added : `` I would say I would say it might be later than September but it ’ s quite a competitive time of year as well so . ''
Britain 's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden believes the live shows will return in the Autumn ( Photo : John Phillips/Getty Images ) What other shows have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic ?
Soaps including Coronation Street and EastEnders have all postponed filming in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crew .
As a result of no new scenes being filmed , both ITV and the BBC decided to ration the number of episodes that were going to air each week .

Britain’s Got Talent will continue tonight after it became the latest show to adapt to the coronavirus pandemic.
In the past few weeks, several TV shows have postponed filming, while live TV shows have had to film without an audience and have had to implement social distancing.
In the aftermath of ITV’s decision to postpone The Voice’s live semi-final and final until later in the year, it was confirmed that Britain’s Got Talent would follow the same format.
The auditions, which were filmed earlier this year, are now airing, with the live shows – originally due to be broadcast in May – delayed until later this year.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new series of Britain’s Got Talent.
When is Britain’s Got Talent on TV?
Britain’s Got Talent’s audition shows air every Saturday at 8.00pm on ITV.
How has coronavirus impacted Britain’s Got Talent?
The live aspect of Britain’s Got Talent has had to be adapted to stay in line with the latest government health guidelines. Therefore the semi-finals and grand final will not air until later this year.
A Britain’s Got Talent spokesperson said in a statement: “We have been working with the brilliant production teams at Thames and Syco to find a way of making the live finals work, which were due to be broadcast at the end of May.
“However, in light of the latest government health guidelines and in line with our priority of safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved in our programmes, production of the live shows cannot go ahead as planned.”
“The live finals will, therefore, be broadcast later in the year,” they added.
Responding to the news, judge Amanda Holden said the decision was “for the best”.
Speaking on her Heart radio breakfast show, Holden said: “I mean I think that Ant and Dec did an amazing job of Takeaway on Saturday but I’m not sure our show, I think our show would suffer quite badly from not having a proper audience.
“I’m hoping we can still strip it, strip means we sort of do it every single day like we used to or we might end up doing it over the weekends but it’s all still in the running but I definitely think it’s for the best.”
Believing that the show will return in the Autumn, Holden added: “I would say I would say it might be later than September but it’s quite a competitive time of year as well so.”
What other shows have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic?
Soaps including Coronation Street and EastEnders have all postponed filming in a bid to safeguard the cast and crew. As a result of no new scenes being filmed, both ITV and the BBC decided to ration the number of episodes that were going to air each week.
Coronation Street will air single episodes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and EastEnders will only air on Mondays and Tuesdays for the foreseeable future.
Meanwhile, TV dramas including Line of Duty have also had to down tools during this time.


inews--2020-05-02--Is Hollywood a true story? How the new Netflix series was inspired by real events and people like Ro

Is Hollywood a true story? How the new Netflix series was inspired by real events and people like Rock Hudson

Is Hollywood a true story ?
How the new Netflix series was inspired by real events and people like Rock Hudson Much of the show mirrors real parts of Hollywood 's illustrious history But even though the story is rooted in fiction , some parts of it are in fact real events in Hollywood 's history .
Here , we take a look at the true parts .
We learn this , too , in Hollywood 's adaptation of her real-life character , when she candidly tells a director that viewers `` do n't want a leading lady that looks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the movie of audiences expecting her to be stereotyped as `` dangerously exotic Far Eastern temptresses '' - which was often how she was cast in real life due to miscegenation laws that banned promotion of interracial relationships .
Murphy , who honours Wong with a non-stereotyped role in Hollywood , called her plight `` one of the most shocking stories in Hollywood history , and so many people do n't know about her '' .
Despite being criticised in real life for taking on more than 70 stereotypical Mammy , housemaid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transforms her into a mentor for younger actors disheartened by an industry rife with racism .
As one of the most in-demand men in Hollywood during the 1950s and 60s , Rock Hudson played opposites such as Doris Day , Elizabeth Taylor and Lauren Bacall - but never felt able to come out until later in life .
He made more than 60 films during his career and died of Aids aged 59 in 1985 , after becoming one of the first major celebrities to reveal his diagnosis .
Murphy 's revisionist portrayal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the start of his career .
`` He definitely had to live a lie , '' Murphy told Time magazine .
`` I was interested in , what if Rock Hudson was rewarded and not punished for being who he was ?
” In Hollywood , Camille has to fight hard or the opportunity to star in a leading role - which he says resembled Dandridge and Horne 's struggles as African Americans to break into big roles .
“ [ Camille ] was loosely based on their struggle , ” Murphy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incredibly talented , more talented than many of the actresses who were getting great opportunities , like Lana Turner , and yet they just could not get beyond a certain level.
” Customers roll up at Ernie 's gas pumps in the show and say `` I want to go to Dreamland '' , a by-word for what they really want .
In real life , Scotty Bowers moved to Los Angeles and started working at the station on Hollywood Boulevard , earning himself the nickname `` Mr Sex '' .
He also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stars express themselves and step out the closet , which he was honoured for before his death in 2019 .

New Netflix limited series Hollywood sees Ryan Murphy chart a gripping and colourful fictional history of an iconic institution.
The show’s storyline sees a group of actors and filmmakers try to fulfil their dreams after the end of World War Two.
Murphy told Time magazine he wanted to demonstrate “the power of Hollywood to change hearts and minds”.
But even though the story is rooted in fiction, some parts of it are in fact real events in Hollywood’s history. Here, we take a look at the true parts.
Anna May Wong
As the first Chinese-American actress in Hollywood, Anna May Wong was a pioneering and vocal campaigner against the discrimination she experienced.
She rose to fame starring in silent movies during the 1920s but constantly felt out of place.
We learn this, too, in Hollywood‘s adaptation of her real-life character, when she candidly tells a director that viewers “don’t want a leading lady that looks like me”.
She also speaks in the movie of audiences expecting her to be stereotyped as “dangerously exotic Far Eastern temptresses” – which was often how she was cast in real life due to miscegenation laws that banned promotion of interracial relationships.
Murphy, who honours Wong with a non-stereotyped role in Hollywood, called her plight “one of the most shocking stories in Hollywood history, and so many people don’t know about her”.
Hattie McDaniel
The first African-American actor to win an Oscar, Hattie McDaniel’s story also features in Hollywood.
Despite being criticised in real life for taking on more than 70 stereotypical Mammy, housemaid and slave roles in films, Murphy transforms her into a mentor for younger actors disheartened by an industry rife with racism.
Rock Hudson
As one of the most in-demand men in Hollywood during the 1950s and 60s, Rock Hudson played opposites such as Doris Day, Elizabeth Taylor and Lauren Bacall – but never felt able to come out until later in life.
He made more than 60 films during his career and died of Aids aged 59 in 1985, after becoming one of the first major celebrities to reveal his diagnosis.
Murphy’s revisionist portrayal lends him the courage to come out at the start of his career. “He definitely had to live a lie,” Murphy told Time magazine. “I was interested in, what if Rock Hudson was rewarded and not punished for being who he was?”
Camille Washington
Murphy says the fictional character Camille Washington, played by Laura Harrier, is inspired by the real-life personalities Lena Horne and Dorothy Dandridge.
In Hollywood, Camille has to fight hard or the opportunity to star in a leading role – which he says resembled Dandridge and Horne’s struggles as African Americans to break into big roles.
“[Camille] was loosely based on their struggle,” Murphy says. “They were beautiful and incredibly talented, more talented than many of the actresses who were getting great opportunities, like Lana Turner, and yet they just could not get beyond a certain level.”
Ernie’s Gas Station
The gas station in Hollywood is essentially a euphemism for sexual relations, and mirrors its function as a meet-up place for pimps in real life.
Customers roll up at Ernie’s gas pumps in the show and say “I want to go to Dreamland”, a by-word for what they really want.
In real life, Scotty Bowers moved to Los Angeles and started working at the station on Hollywood Boulevard, earning himself the nickname “Mr Sex”. He also played a crucial role in helping LGBT+ stars express themselves and step out the closet, which he was honoured for before his death in 2019.
Peg Entwistle
The tragic tale of Peg, who is the focus of character Archie Coleman’s screenplay in Hollywood, also reflects a real life story.
Peg Entwistle, an aspiring British-born actress, shocked people across the globe in 1932 when she jumped to her death from the “H” of the then-Hollywoodland sign.
In Hollywood, Coleman explains that he can empathise with her anxiety at never being able to break-in to an exclusive film industry.


inews--2020-05-03--Coronavirus in the UK: Nearly half of doctors forced to buy their own PPE or rely on donations

Coronavirus in the UK : Nearly half of doctors forced to buy their own PPE or rely on donations More than a quarter of doctors also said they were suffering from depression , anxiety , stress , burnout or emotional distress at work Almost half of NHS doctors battling to save patients from the coronavirus were forced to buy their own personal protective equipment ( PPE ) or relied on donations from charities to source it .
A survey conducted by the British Medical Association showed that although supplies of PPE have improved , data collected from more than 16,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was still much to be done to ensure healthcare workers on the frontline are protected from becoming contaminated with Covid-19 – and from contaminating others .
The study , which the BMA claims is the largest undertaken by NHS staff during the coronavirus crisis , showed that almost a third ( 30 per cent ) of doctors say they have not spoken out about , or reported , lack of PPE equipment , staff shortages or testing or drug shortages because they do not believe anything will be done about it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus at work , just under two thirds ( 65 per cent ) said they felt partly protected or not protected at all .
NHS workers in PPE attend to a patient in hospital ( Photo : Getty ) Overall , 48 per cent of doctors reported having bought PPE for themselves or their department , or received a donation from a charity or local firm .
The problem appeared to be higher among GPs , with 55 per cent admitting they had purchased their own , compared to 38 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than a quarter ( 28 per cent ) of doctors said they were suffering from depression , anxiety , stress , burnout , emotional distress or other mental health conditions related to or made worse by work during this time .
BMA council chair Dr Chaand Nagpaul said the doctor 's responses to questions about PPE was `` a damning indictment of the Government 's abject failure to make sure healthcare workers across the country are being supplied with the life-saving kit they should be '' .
He said : `` The Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be met to ease lockdown , the first of which is 'making sure the NHS can cope ' .
`` Six weeks into this crisis , how can the Government be confident that this condition is anywhere near being met , or that the pandemic is under control , when the very people on the frontline are not being made safe ? ''
However he said those responsible for tackling the problems were `` throwing everything at it , heart and soul , night and day , to get it right . ''

Almost half of NHS doctors battling to save patients from the coronavirus were forced to buy their own personal protective equipment (PPE) or relied on donations from charities to source it.
A survey conducted by the British Medical Association showed that although supplies of PPE have improved, data collected from more than 16,000 physicians between 28 and 30 April indicated there was still much to be done to ensure healthcare workers on the frontline are protected from becoming contaminated with Covid-19 – and from contaminating others.
The study, which the BMA claims is the largest undertaken by NHS staff during the coronavirus crisis, showed that almost a third (30 per cent) of doctors say they have not spoken out about, or reported, lack of PPE equipment, staff shortages or testing or drug shortages because they do not believe anything will be done about it.
Asked how well protected they felt against the coronavirus at work, just under two thirds (65 per cent) said they felt partly protected or not protected at all.
Stress and anxiety amid PPE shortage
Overall, 48 per cent of doctors reported having bought PPE for themselves or their department, or received a donation from a charity or local firm.
The problem appeared to be higher among GPs, with 55 per cent admitting they had purchased their own, compared to 38 per cent of hospital doctors.
Additionally, more than a quarter (28 per cent) of doctors said they were suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, burnout, emotional distress or other mental health conditions related to or made worse by work during this time.
‘A damning indictment’
BMA council chair Dr Chaand Nagpaul said the doctor’s responses to questions about PPE was “a damning indictment of the Government’s abject failure to make sure healthcare workers across the country are being supplied with the life-saving kit they should be”.
He said: “The Government has five tests it has said must be met to ease lockdown, the first of which is ‘making sure the NHS can cope’.
“Six weeks into this crisis, how can the Government be confident that this condition is anywhere near being met, or that the pandemic is under control, when the very people on the frontline are not being made safe?”
Boris Johnson acknowledged the difficulties in getting sufficient PPE to frontline staff during the press briefing at Downing Street on Thursday.
However he said those responsible for tackling the problems were “throwing everything at it, heart and soul, night and day, to get it right.”
Additional reporting from the Press Association


inews--2020-05-03--Coronavirus fake news: YouTube deletes conspiracy theorist David Icke's channel following false Covi

Coronavirus fake news: YouTube deletes conspiracy theorist David Icke's channel following false Covid-19 claims

The conspiracy theorist claims that he is being targeted by the 'Big Tech all-connected Elite Mafia' YouTube has deleted conspiracy theorist David Icke 's official channel after he repeatedly violated the video site 's rules around the coronavirus outbreak .
Mr Icke , whose channel had more than 900,000 subscribers prior to its removal , uploaded videos claiming that 5G technology and vaccines had caused people to fall ill , that anyone with a robust immune system is protected and that the virus is a hoax that does n't exist .
A spokesperson for the company said YouTube has `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the existence and transmission of Covid-19 as described by the WHO and the NHS .
The Google-owned company deleted the channel following pressure from the non-profit Centre for Countering Digital Hate ( CCDH ) , which reported that Mr Icke 's conspiracy theories had been viewed 30m times .
Mr Icke , who has gained notoriety for his allegations the royal family are shape-shifting lizards and prediction the world would end in 1997 , will be prevented from creating another official YouTube channel .
However , while Mr Icke 's official YouTube channel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his claims uploaded from other accounts are still available , the CCDH said , while videos of the 68-year old that do not violate YouTube 's false coronavirus allegation policies will be allowed to remain on the platform .
The group is calling on YouTube to remove the additional videos and for Instagram and Twitter to follow Facebook and YouTube 's example in banning Mr Icke from their platforms .
Ofcom reprimanded London Live , the TV channel belonging to Evening Standard and Independent owner Evgeny Lebedev , last month for broadcasting an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risked causing significant harm to viewers '' .
The regulator said Mr Icke 's claims the coronavirus outbreak was a cover for a world order to purposefully crash the global economy were not sufficiently challenged during the 80-minute interview , which aired on 8 April .
Facebook deleted Mr Icke 's official page , which had close to 800,000 followers , on Friday for `` for repeatedly violating our policies on harmful misinformation '' , but a second page with close to 70,000 followers is still active .
“ We commend YouTube on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ David Icke 's channel , which our report found was filled with bigotry and misinformation , '' said Imran Ahmed , chief executive of the CCDH .
`` However , there remains a network of channels and shadowy amplifiers who promote Mr Icke 's content that need to be removed from their service . ''

YouTube has deleted conspiracy theorist David Icke’s official channel after he repeatedly violated the video site’s rules around the coronavirus outbreak.
Mr Icke, whose channel had more than 900,000 subscribers prior to its removal, uploaded videos claiming that 5G technology and vaccines had caused people to fall ill, that anyone with a robust immune system is protected and that the virus is a hoax that doesn’t exist.
A spokesperson for the company said YouTube has “clear policies prohibiting any content that disputes the existence and transmission of Covid-19 as described by the WHO and the NHS.
“Due to continued violation of these policies we have terminated David Icke’s YouTube channel.”
The Google-owned company deleted the channel following pressure from the non-profit Centre for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), which reported that Mr Icke’s conspiracy theories had been viewed 30m times.
Cracking down on conspiracy theories
Mr Icke, who has gained notoriety for his allegations the royal family are shape-shifting lizards and prediction the world would end in 1997, will be prevented from creating another official YouTube channel.
However, while Mr Icke’s official YouTube channel has been taken down, videos of his claims uploaded from other accounts are still available, the CCDH said, while videos of the 68-year old that do not violate YouTube’s false coronavirus allegation policies will be allowed to remain on the platform.
The group is calling on YouTube to remove the additional videos and for Instagram and Twitter to follow Facebook and YouTube’s example in banning Mr Icke from their platforms.
Read more:
Coronavirus fake news adverts approved by Facebook despite crackdown
Ofcom reprimanded London Live, the TV channel belonging to Evening Standard and Independent owner Evgeny Lebedev, last month for broadcasting an interview with Mr Icke it said “risked causing significant harm to viewers”.
The regulator said Mr Icke’s claims the coronavirus outbreak was a cover for a world order to purposefully crash the global economy were not sufficiently challenged during the 80-minute interview, which aired on 8 April.
‘Bigotry and misinformation’
Facebook deleted Mr Icke’s official page, which had close to 800,000 followers, on Friday for “for repeatedly violating our policies on harmful misinformation”, but a second page with close to 70,000 followers is still active.
“We commend YouTube on bowing to pressure and taking action on David Icke’s channel, which our report found was filled with bigotry and misinformation,” said Imran Ahmed, chief executive of the CCDH.
“However, there remains a network of channels and shadowy amplifiers who promote Mr Icke’s content that need to be removed from their service.”


inews--2020-05-03--"Things will never be the same again" is a cliche- but this time it's proving to be true

`` Things will never be the same again '' is a cliche- but this time it 's proving to be true We will all have to wrap our minds around the idea that come September everything will not actually start going back to normal '' Things will never be the same again ” : one of the most overused and often just plain wrong of clichés , often trotted out in far less seismic times than today .
In adversity , many of us catastrophise , unable because of worry , pressure and fear to see beyond the short term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the next pay cheque , or paying the rent or mortgage , let alone a return to the status quo .
But , usually , things do return remarkably quickly – look at the record bull market that followed the financial crash of 2008 .
But , this time ?
This time , it really will feel different , because this time the changes that actually do come after seismic events will not be unseen in the technological ether or complex financial and political institutions , but tangible in our everyday lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reality is that things wo n't simply return to normal for most of us , or for most businesses ( Photo : Mike Hewitt/Getty ) Some of us realised that belatedly this past week when British Airways announced first the proposed lay-off of 12,000 , one third of its staff , and then said it may never return to Gatwick , Britain ’ s second largest airport - tumultuous , particularly for the town of Crawley .
Health always trumps the economy , yes ?
Of course , the thousands of us who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have had our lives changed irrevocably , but beyond a couple of degrees of separation many more are confronted with a scary new reality .
Let ’ s be brutal : it was sad when Laura Ashley , Debenhams , Carluccio ’ s , Oasis , Warehouse and so many others announced administration or worse , and horrendous for those laid off , but not really surprising .
But , British Airways ?
As the world ’ s most famous investor , Warren Buffett , divests all his airline stakes , Ryanair restructures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are wondering : how can they survive if they have to leave the middle seat empty , with four-hour queues to board , face masks… for airlines , retailers , restaurants , bars , gyms , hairdressers , concert venues , sports franchises , estate agents , transport systems The list genuinely is endless .
I ’ ve quoted Bill Gates before : “ People overestimate the change that will happen in two years and underestimate the change that will happen in ten ” .
But , this time the change is upon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to wrap our minds around the idea that come September everything will not actually start going back to normal , like after 2008 .
It is the normal that will be redefined .
It already has been .

“Things will never be the same again”: one of the most overused and often just plain wrong of clichés, often trotted out in far less seismic times than today. In adversity, many of us catastrophise, unable because of worry, pressure and fear to see beyond the short term.
We can’t see through to the next pay cheque, or paying the rent or mortgage, let alone a return to the status quo. But, usually, things do return remarkably quickly – look at the record bull market that followed the financial crash of 2008. But, this time?
This time, it really will feel different, because this time the changes that actually do come after seismic events will not be unseen in the technological ether or complex financial and political institutions, but tangible in our everyday lives.
Some of us realised that belatedly this past week when British Airways announced first the proposed lay-off of 12,000, one third of its staff, and then said it may never return to Gatwick, Britain’s second largest airport – tumultuous, particularly for the town of Crawley.
Health always trumps the economy, yes? Of course, the thousands of us who have lost a loved one to COVID19 have had our lives changed irrevocably, but beyond a couple of degrees of separation many more are confronted with a scary new reality. Let’s be brutal: it was sad when Laura Ashley, Debenhams, Carluccio’s, Oasis, Warehouse and so many others announced administration or worse, and horrendous for those laid off, but not really surprising. But, British Airways?
As the world’s most famous investor, Warren Buffett, divests all his airline stakes, Ryanair restructures and says out loud what all airlines are wondering: how can they survive if they have to leave the middle seat empty, with four-hour queues to board, face masks. The same challenges are faced by retailers, restaurants, bars, gyms, hairdressers, concert venues, sports franchises, estate agents and transport systems.
The list genuinely is endless. I’ve quoted Bill Gates before: “People overestimate the change that will happen in two years and underestimate the change that will happen in ten”. But, this time the change is upon us now.
And we will all have to wrap our minds around the idea that come September everything will not actually start going back to normal, like after 2008. It is the normal that will be redefined. It already has been.
@stefanohat


inews--2020-05-03--Coronavirus in the UK: Workers shun public transport for cycling to avoid Covid-19 commute

Coronavirus in the UK : Workers shun public transport for cycling to avoid Covid-19 commute Grant Shapps says the outbreak has led to 'massive increase ' in cycle to work One of the key considerations for ministers as they come to ease the stringent restrictions put in place to halt the spread of Covid-19 will be how to keep commuters safe as they begin to return to work .
Plans are being considered to ensure passengers keep 2m apart from one another , including limiting the number of people onto platforms and clearly marking social distances at bus stops , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all forms of transport .
But many workers are expected to shun the daily commute due to ongoing fears of infection from the virus , in a move that could lead to a potential uptick in healthier living .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said there had been a “ massive increase ” in people signing up to the Cycle to Work scheme had increased by the “ hundreds of per cent ” since the coronavirus outbreak hit .
Mr Shapps said figures showed the public were shifting towards more “ active transport ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which could provide an unlikely health benefit from the current crisis .
The Government is likely to say more about plans to urge people to consider more active means of travelling to work if they can this week as Boris Johnson sets out his “ roadmap ” for easing the nationwide lockdown .
“ Active transport , keeping people off public transport and getting there under their own steam , getting to work under their own steam , that could be a very important part of this recovery as well , ” Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it emerged that commuters may be asked to check their temperature before taking a bus or train in a bid to limit the chances of infection .
Transport chiefs believe that enforcing social distancing rules on public transport will mean just 15-20 per cent of a train ’ s capacity will be used up .
Passengers will be forced to cope with lengthy queues outside the station in a bid to get onto the platforms if they are expected to keep to the requisite 2m distance .
Businesses will be told to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try and alleviate pressure on the transport system at peak times .
Mr Shapps said this would be part of a range of measures that may be brought in to try and get the transport system up and running , including mass installations of hand sanitiser .
He said : “ People being able to wash their hands ... is still by far and away the most important advice above anything else .
`` We can help with that by trying to have hand sanitiser , one-way systems , spacing on platforms and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are a lot of different measures that can be taken , of which easing into this is going to be clearly one of the most important things of all .
”

One of the key considerations for ministers as they come to ease the stringent restrictions put in place to halt the spread of Covid-19 will be how to keep commuters safe as they begin to return to work.
Plans are being considered to ensure passengers keep 2m apart from one another, including limiting the number of people onto platforms and clearly marking social distances at bus stops, while face coverings will be required on all forms of transport.
But many workers are expected to shun the daily commute due to ongoing fears of infection from the virus, in a move that could lead to a potential uptick in healthier living.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said there had been a “massive increase” in people signing up to the Cycle to Work scheme had increased by the “hundreds of per cent” since the coronavirus outbreak hit.
Active transport
Mr Shapps said figures showed the public were shifting towards more “active transport” as a result of the pandemic, which could provide an unlikely health benefit from the current crisis.
The Government is likely to say more about plans to urge people to consider more active means of travelling to work if they can this week as Boris Johnson sets out his “roadmap” for easing the nationwide lockdown.
“Active transport, keeping people off public transport and getting there under their own steam, getting to work under their own steam, that could be a very important part of this recovery as well,” Mr Shapps told Sky News.
It comes as it emerged that commuters may be asked to check their temperature before taking a bus or train in a bid to limit the chances of infection.
Transport chiefs believe that enforcing social distancing rules on public transport will mean just 15-20 per cent of a train’s capacity will be used up.
Passengers will be forced to cope with lengthy queues outside the station in a bid to get onto the platforms if they are expected to keep to the requisite 2m distance.
Easy does it
Businesses will be told to stagger start times for their employees to try and alleviate pressure on the transport system at peak times.
Mr Shapps said this would be part of a range of measures that may be brought in to try and get the transport system up and running, including mass installations of hand sanitiser.
He said: “People being able to wash their hands…is still by far and away the most important advice above anything else.
“We can help with that by trying to have hand sanitiser, one-way systems, spacing on platforms and bus stops clearly marked out so there are a lot of different measures that can be taken, of which easing into this is going to be clearly one of the most important things of all.”


inews--2020-05-03--Government's cyber experts ban terms 'blacklist' and 'whitelist' over racism fears

The NCSC said there were 'obvious issues ' around the negative associations surrounding 'blacklisting' The Government 's cyber experts are banning use of the terms 'whistlisting ' and 'blacklisting ' over racist connotations following a request from a client .
The National Cyber Security Centre ( NCSC ) , the branch of GCHQ dedicated to cyber security , said there were `` obvious problems '' around the terminology 's associations .
Both terms are common parlance in cyber security to describe desirable and undesirable things , such as which applications will be allowed or denied on corporate networks or deciding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed , Emma W , the centre 's head of advice and guidance , said .
`` However , there 's an issue with the terminology .
It only makes sense if you equate white with 'good , permitted , safe ' and black with 'bad , dangerous , forbidden ' .
There are some obvious problems with this , '' she said .
`` So in the name of helping to stamp out racism in cyber security , we will avoid this casually pejorative wording on our website in the future .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ had contacted the centre a few months ago to ask if it would reconsider its choice of wording on its website , adding : `` I immediately smacked myself in the head for not thinking of it a long time ago . ''
The NCSC will use the terms 'allow list ' and 'deny list ' in place of 'whitelist ' and 'blacklist ' on its website , which it said was clearer and less ambiguous .
`` You may not see why this matters .
If you 're not adversely affected by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yourself lucky , '' Ms W added .
`` For some of your colleagues ( and potential future colleagues ) , this really is a change worth making . ''
Associations with the terms are problematic , the NCSC said ( Photo : Pexels ) Dr Ian Levy , the NCSC 's technical director , concluded the statement with the droll assessment : `` If you ’ re thinking about getting in touch saying this is political correctness gone mad , don ’ t bother . ''
This is far from the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the terms have been raised .
The Met Police 's IT staff were told to use 'red listed ' and 'green listed ' instead of black/white listed in 2012 over `` the sensitivity around the use of such terminology '' , and digital bank Monzo told its staff to avoid using them in favour of 'allowlist ' and 'blocklist ' in February this year .
A 2018 study from the University of Limerick claimed that terminology such as blacklists , whitelists and black sheep `` does not merely reflect a racist culture , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it '' .

The Government’s cyber experts are banning use of the terms ‘whitelisting’ and ‘blacklisting’ over racist connotations following a request from a client.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the branch of GCHQ dedicated to cyber security, said there were “obvious problems” around the terminology’s associations.
Both terms are common parlance in cyber security to describe desirable and undesirable things, such as which applications will be allowed or denied on corporate networks or deciding which passwords should and shouldn’t be allowed, Emma W, the centre’s head of advice and guidance, said.
“However, there’s an issue with the terminology. It only makes sense if you equate white with ‘good, permitted, safe’ and black with ‘bad, dangerous, forbidden’. There are some obvious problems with this,” she said.
“So in the name of helping to stamp out racism in cyber security, we will avoid this casually pejorative wording on our website in the future.”
Allow list and deny list
Ms W said an NCSC customer had contacted the centre a few months ago to ask if it would reconsider its choice of wording on its website, adding: “I immediately smacked myself in the head for not thinking of it a long time ago.”
‘If you’re thinking about getting in touch saying this is political correctness gone mad, don’t bother’ – Dr Ian Levy
The NCSC will use the terms ‘allow list’ and ‘deny list’ in place of ‘whitelist’ and ‘blacklist’ on its website, which it said was clearer and less ambiguous.
“You may not see why this matters. If you’re not adversely affected by racial stereotyping yourself, then please count yourself lucky,” Ms W added. “For some of your colleagues (and potential future colleagues), this really is a change worth making.”
Dr Ian Levy, the NCSC’s technical director, concluded the statement with the droll assessment: “If you’re thinking about getting in touch saying this is political correctness gone mad, don’t bother.”
Implications of the terms
This is far from the first time concerns over the racial implications of the terms have been raised.
The Met Police’s IT staff were told to use ‘redlisted‘ and ‘greenlisted’ instead of black/whitelisted in 2012 over “the sensitivity around the use of such terminology”, and digital bank Monzo told its staff to avoid using them in favour of ‘allowlist’ and ‘blocklist’ in February this year.
A 2018 study from the University of Limerick claimed that terminology such as blacklists, whitelists and black sheep “does not merely reflect a racist culture, but also serves to legitimise and perpetuate it”.


inews--2020-05-03--The NHS is not too busy to save your life if you have a heart attack - even in a pandemic

The NHS is not too busy to save your life if you have a heart attack - even in a pandemic The drop in heart patients attending emergency departments suggests that thousands of people could be causing themselves harm The country ’ s focus on combating coronavirus is fundamental , and as healthcare workers we are proud to support this fight .
But if the current trend continues , approximately 5,000 of the expected people with possible heart attack symptoms will not be seen in emergency departments each month .
There are several possible reasons for this dramatic fall in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to be that people are not seeking the urgent and life-saving medical assistance they need for heart attacks .
People may also be less certain about the symptoms of heart attack because chest pain has been widely discussed as a symptom of coronavirus , and both heart attack and Covid-19 make people breathless .
According to a BHF survey this month , most cardiologists thought that the fall in attendances could be due to people ’ s fear of being exposed to coronavirus in hospital , and worries of overburdening the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an untreated heart attack is far greater than the risk of contracting and dying from Covid-19 in hospital , not least because hospitals have put measures in place to separate people needing treatment for Covid-19 from people with other conditions .
Heart attacks don ’ t stop during a global pandemic , and that is why the BHF is supporting the NHS ’ s urgent plea that patients continue to seek emergency and urgent care and treatment .
Coronavirus is extremely serious , but avoiding treatment for a heart attack or stroke can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead to more disabling long term symptoms .
Without swift diagnosis and treatment , someone having a heart attack is far more likely to spend longer in hospital , require intensive care and suffer serious heart damage , which could lead to avoidable debilitating conditions , such as severe heart failure .
This is a tragedy as decades of research mean that we know how to effectively treat heart attacks and have dedicated NHS structures in place to deliver them .
Coronavirus is extremely serious , but avoiding treatment for a heart attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk , or lead to more disabling long term symptoms .
( Photo by Matthew Horwood/Getty Images ) It is vital that anyone experiencing heart attack symptoms dials 999 .
Paramedics can diagnose a heart attack or a stroke straight away and take people to the right hospital and department to receive the best treatment without significant delay .
I can not stress enough that the NHS remains ready to treat you if you need urgent care and treatment .
The health service is reassuring us that it has the staff , beds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for business to treat emergencies like heart attacks and strokes as well as heart patients that need urgent help .
Delaying or avoiding treatments may put more pressure on the health service , not less if it results in more people presenting with more severe illness .
I appreciate this may be a deeply worrying time for anyone concerned about their health but fears of getting coronavirus or of being a burden on the NHS should not stop people with serious medical problems seeking help .
The NHS will not abandon anyone who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a loved one experience any of the warning signs of a heart attack , please dial 999 as soon as possible .
It could save a life and prevent more heartbreak .

The number of people attending hospital emergency departments with heart symptoms has halved since the beginning of March in England. As a cardiologist, this concerns me.
The country’s focus on combating coronavirus is fundamental, and as healthcare workers we are proud to support this fight. But if the current trend continues, approximately 5,000 of the expected people with possible heart attack symptoms will not be seen in emergency departments each month.
There are several possible reasons for this dramatic fall in numbers, and one of them is likely to be that people are not seeking the urgent and life-saving medical assistance they need for heart attacks. People may also be less certain about the symptoms of heart attack because chest pain has been widely discussed as a symptom of coronavirus, and both heart attack and Covid-19 make people breathless.
According to a BHF survey this month, most cardiologists thought that the fall in attendances could be due to people’s fear of being exposed to coronavirus in hospital, and worries of overburdening the NHS.
Risk of dying
Yet the risk of dying from an untreated heart attack is far greater than the risk of contracting and dying from Covid-19 in hospital, not least because hospitals have put measures in place to separate people needing treatment for Covid-19 from people with other conditions. Heart attacks don’t stop during a global pandemic, and that is why the BHF is supporting the NHS’s urgent plea that patients continue to seek emergency and urgent care and treatment.
Coronavirus is extremely serious, but avoiding treatment for a heart attack or stroke can put your life at risk, or lead to more disabling long term symptoms. Without swift diagnosis and treatment, someone having a heart attack is far more likely to spend longer in hospital, require intensive care and suffer serious heart damage, which could lead to avoidable debilitating conditions, such as severe heart failure. This is a tragedy as decades of research mean that we know how to effectively treat heart attacks and have dedicated NHS structures in place to deliver them.
It is vital that anyone experiencing heart attack symptoms dials 999. Paramedics can diagnose a heart attack or a stroke straight away and take people to the right hospital and department to receive the best treatment without significant delay.
The NHS is ready
I cannot stress enough that the NHS remains ready to treat you if you need urgent care and treatment. The health service is reassuring us that it has the staff, beds and equipment in place and is open for business to treat emergencies like heart attacks and strokes as well as heart patients that need urgent help. Delaying or avoiding treatments may put more pressure on the health service, not less if it results in more people presenting with more severe illness.
I appreciate this may be a deeply worrying time for anyone concerned about their health but fears of getting coronavirus or of being a burden on the NHS should not stop people with serious medical problems seeking help.
The NHS will not abandon anyone who needs its services, so if you or a loved one experience any of the warning signs of a heart attack, please dial 999 as soon as possible. It could save a life and prevent more heartbreak.
Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan is a Consultant Cardiologist and Associate Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation


inews--2020-05-03--Tens of thousands of heart and stroke patients risking their lives by avoiding hospital

Tens of thousands of heart and stroke patients risking their lives by avoiding hospital Covid-19 effect having a dramatic impact on number of people presenting at A & E with life threatening symptoms Tens of thousands of stroke and heart patients are risking their lives by not getting symptoms checked out by a GP or avoiding hospital due to fears over Covid-19 , i can reveal .
The number of people attending emergency departments in April with symptoms of a possible heart attack remains around 40 per cent down on those seen at the beginning of March .
If that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected people with possible heart attack symptoms will not be seen in emergency departments each month .
Cardiologists say the fall has been `` dramatic '' and although there could be several reasons behind the drop , people may be confused about the symptoms of heart attack because chest pain has been widely discussed as a symptom of coronavirus , and both heart attack and Covid-19 make people breathless .
In a British Heart Foundation ( BHF ) survey this month , most cardiologists thought that the fall in attendances could also be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being exposed to coronavirus in hospital , and worries of overburdening the NHS .
London-based cardiologist Dr Aseem Malhotra said : `` It 's very concerning that a significant number of patients are not turning up to A & E with symptoms of a heart attack , which is unfortunately part of the collateral damage that has occurred due to the lockdown .
I think it 's now time to get the message out that if you have symptoms the NHS is there for you .
If you 're sick in any way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & E .
`` We have full capacity to deal with many conditions beyond Covid-19 now , so do n't delay anything and if you 're sick , please , please get help . ''
Writing in i , Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan , consultant cardiologist and Associate Medical Director at the BHF , said : `` There are several possible reasons for this dramatic fall in numbers , and one of them is likely to be that people are not seeking the urgent and life-saving medical assistance they need for heart attacks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the symptoms of heart attack because chest pain has been widely discussed as a symptom of coronavirus , and both heart attack and Covid-19 make people breathless . ''
There are informal reports of around a drop in a third of people presenting at A & E with suspected stroke symptoms according to The Stroke Association , which the charity said it expects is due to fear of catching the virus .
Many stroke services have also adapted to the pandemic to help reduce transmission of the virus : rather than calling patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appointment , they are using phone or video chat to diagnose and recommend treatment for patients .
Official figures are expected to be published later this month .
Juliet Bouverie , chief executive of the Stroke Association , said : “ The fear of contracting the virus or feeling like a burden on the NHS might be the main reasons putting people off seeking treatment .
But I am reassured that the NHS is well equipped to treat both stroke and coronavirus .
The best thing for you and the NHS , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or the person in front of you ) is having a stroke .
Assume stroke until told otherwise .
“ Equally concerning is people who experience mini-stroke and then dismiss it as ‘ just a funny-turn ’ .
A mini-stroke is a warning that a major stroke is on its way , so you shouldn ’ t ignore the signs ; and you need to seek help .
Now more than ever , during this pandemic we must remain focused on making and keeping stroke a priority for the UK.
” Last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to persuade the public to seek the urgent care and treatment they need .
NHS England chief executive Sir Simon Stevens warned that delays in getting treatment due to coronavirus fears pose a long term risk to people ’ s health .
He stressed that the NHS is still there for patients without coronavirus who need urgent and emergency services for stroke , heart attack , and other killer conditions .

Tens of thousands of stroke and heart patients are risking their lives by not getting symptoms checked out by a GP or avoiding hospital due to fears over Covid-19, i can reveal.
The number of people attending emergency departments in April with symptoms of a possible heart attack remains around 40 per cent down on those seen at the beginning of March. If that trend continues, approximately 5,000 of the expected people with possible heart attack symptoms will not be seen in emergency departments each month.
Cardiologists say the fall has been “dramatic” and although there could be several reasons behind the drop, people may be confused about the symptoms of heart attack because chest pain has been widely discussed as a symptom of coronavirus, and both heart attack and Covid-19 make people breathless.
In a British Heart Foundation (BHF) survey this month, most cardiologists thought that the fall in attendances could also be due to people’s fear of being exposed to coronavirus in hospital, and worries of overburdening the NHS.
London-based cardiologist Dr Aseem Malhotra said: “It’s very concerning that a significant number of patients are not turning up to A&E with symptoms of a heart attack, which is unfortunately part of the collateral damage that has occurred due to the lockdown. I think it’s now time to get the message out that if you have symptoms the NHS is there for you. If you’re sick in any way at all you must go to A&E.
“We have full capacity to deal with many conditions beyond Covid-19 now, so don’t delay anything and if you’re sick, please, please get help.”
Writing in i,Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, consultant cardiologist and Associate Medical Director at the BHF, said: “There are several possible reasons for this dramatic fall in numbers, and one of them is likely to be that people are not seeking the urgent and life-saving medical assistance they need for heart attacks. People may also be less certain about the symptoms of heart attack because chest pain has been widely discussed as a symptom of coronavirus, and both heart attack and Covid-19 make people breathless.”
Stroke services
There are informal reports of around a drop in a third of people presenting at A&E with suspected stroke symptoms according to The Stroke Association, which the charity said it expects is due to fear of catching the virus. Many stroke services have also adapted to the pandemic to help reduce transmission of the virus: rather than calling patients with mini-stroke up to a hospital outpatient appointment, they are using phone or video chat to diagnose and recommend treatment for patients. Official figures are expected to be published later this month.
Juliet Bouverie, chief executive of the Stroke Association, said: “The fear of contracting the virus or feeling like a burden on the NHS might be the main reasons putting people off seeking treatment. But I am reassured that the NHS is well equipped to treat both stroke and coronavirus. The best thing for you and the NHS, is to call 999 and say you (or the person in front of you) is having a stroke. Assume stroke until told otherwise.
“Equally concerning is people who experience mini-stroke and then dismiss it as ‘just a funny-turn’. A mini-stroke is a warning that a major stroke is on its way, so you shouldn’t ignore the signs; and you need to seek help. Now more than ever, during this pandemic we must remain focused on making and keeping stroke a priority for the UK.”
Last week the NHS launched a major new drive to persuade the public to seek the urgent care and treatment they need. NHS England chief executive Sir Simon Stevens warned that delays in getting treatment due to coronavirus fears pose a long term risk to people’s health. He stressed that the NHS is still there for patients without coronavirus who need urgent and emergency services for stroke, heart attack, and other killer conditions.


inews--2020-05-03--Coronavirus latest: People could be allowed countryside walks and picnics in first step to ease lock

Coronavirus latest: People could be allowed countryside walks and picnics in first step to ease lockdown

Coronavirus latest : People could be allowed countryside walks and picnics in first step to ease lockdown Plans set to be unveiled next week could see the first relaxation of lockdown rules in the UK The initial changes will mean people can go further afield for outside walks and picnics , according to The Mail on Sunday .
However , they will still have to adhere to social distancing rules , staying within households and at least two metres from other people .
Areas such as playgrounds and beaches , where it is more difficult to observe the two-metre rule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A senior government source told The Mail on Sunday : `` Thanks to the huge efforts of the British public we are past the peak of the virus without the NHS having been overwhelmed .
`` Now we can start to look at which elements of the social distancing rules can be adjusted while keeping the rate of transmission down , so we are looking at how to lift everyone ’ s spirits by allowing the public to get into the great outdoors .
Visitors have been banned from national parks and rural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) '' The vast majority of people have followed the rules , but in the next phase of our fight it will be even more critical that a small minority of rule-breakers do not put the rest of us at risk .
That is why we will give the police tougher powers . ''
The Prime Minister is set to review lockdown on Thursday , but is not expected to make any substantial changes until next month .
The first phase of the Irish plan will also allow up to four people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while keeping at least two metres apart .
Exercise in small groups will also be permitted .
The Royal College of GPs and the British Medical Association ( BMA ) both said age should not be the only factor used to establish who can return to normal life and who can not , according to The Sunday Times .
Those aged 70 or older are classed as ‘ clinically vulnerable ’ , whether they are healthy or not , and are expected to stay home at the moment .
But Martin Marshall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GPs , argued that a prolonged lockdown could do harm to the ‘ physical and mental ’ health of the over-70s .
Boris is expected to review the current lockdown measures on Thursday ( Photo by Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images ) Professor Martin said : `` People of all ages have a wide range of capabilities and are subject to various risk factors , of which their age is one , that might affect their health and how they respond to Covid-19 .

Britons may soon be allowed to exercise several times a day and travel to the countryside for walks under new relaxed lockdown measures.
Plans for how to relax lockdown rules are expected to be outlined on Thursday, as coronavirus infections continue to fall.
The initial changes will mean people can go further afield for outside walks and picnics, according to The Mail on Sunday.
However, they will still have to adhere to social distancing rules, staying within households and at least two metres from other people.
Areas such as playgrounds and beaches, where it is more difficult to observe the two-metre rule, will remain out of bounds.
Evidence suggests that the risk of transmitting the disease outside is lower than in enclosed spaces.
The change will reportedly come with stricter enforcement of rules, with fines rising from £60 to £3,000 for repeat offenders.
Relaxing the rules
A senior government source told The Mail on Sunday: “Thanks to the huge efforts of the British public we are past the peak of the virus without the NHS having been overwhelmed.
“Now we can start to look at which elements of the social distancing rules can be adjusted while keeping the rate of transmission down, so we are looking at how to lift everyone’s spirits by allowing the public to get into the great outdoors.
“The vast majority of people have followed the rules, but in the next phase of our fight it will be even more critical that a small minority of rule-breakers do not put the rest of us at risk. That is why we will give the police tougher powers.”
The Prime Minister is set to review lockdown on Thursday, but is not expected to make any substantial changes until next month.
A detailed lockdown plan set out in Ireland on Friday will see “outdoor spaces and tourism sites” re-opened from 18 May, as well as public sports grounds.
The first phase of the Irish plan will also allow up to four people who don’t live together to meet outdoors, while keeping at least two metres apart. Exercise in small groups will also be permitted.
Healthy over-70s
This comes as senior doctors warned Boris Johnson to ease lockdown for healthy over-70s.
The Royal College of GPs and the British Medical Association (BMA) both said age should not be the only factor used to establish who can return to normal life and who cannot, according to The Sunday Times.
Those aged 70 or older are classed as ‘clinically vulnerable’, whether they are healthy or not, and are expected to stay home at the moment.
But Martin Marshall, chairman of the Royal College of GPs, argued that a prolonged lockdown could do harm to the ‘physical and mental’ health of the over-70s.
Professor Martin said: “People of all ages have a wide range of capabilities and are subject to various risk factors, of which their age is one, that might affect their health and how they respond to Covid-19.
“Asking any individual to undertake strict isolation measures is already a significant ask that will undoubtedly have some impact on their physical and mental health.”
The BMA added in a statement: “A blanket ban on any section of the population being prohibited from lockdown easing would be discriminatory and unacceptable.”
Speaking at the Downing Street daily briefing on Saturday, deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said that officials are”trying to review” the restrictive rules “because we do recognise that asking somebody to stay shielded for a very long period of time… is quite a difficult thing for them to do.”


inews--2020-05-03--Coronavirus latest: Households with children going hungry have doubled during the lockdown

Coronavirus latest : Households with children going hungry have doubled during the lockdown Almost a fifth of UK homes with children have been struggling to access food in the past five weeks , the Food Foundation says The number of households with children going hungry in the UK has almost doubled during the coronavirus lockdown , as a growing number of vulnerable families are struggling to put food on the table .
Data from the Food Foundation found almost a fifth of UK homes with children have been struggling to access food in the past five weeks showing that isolation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many families into poverty .
The lack of food has forced some households with children to skip meals , while other have been given smaller portions .
The data , which was first seen by The Observer , also found that some 621,000 children were accessing free breakfast clubs before the pandemic , but only 136,000 have been provided with an alternative since .
An 81 per cent increase in emergency food parcels were delivered in the first two weeks of March compared to the same period last year , according to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The data comes as a coalition of anti-poverty charities call for renewed support for vulnerable people , and highlighted those financially hit by Covid-19 .
As the outbreak spread , food banks in the Independent Food Aid Network ( IFAN ) saw the need for food parcels rocket , reporting an average 59 per cent rise in need from February to March - 17 times higher than this time last year .
A collective made up of the Child Poverty Action Group ( CPAG ) , Children ’ s Society , Joseph Rowntree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Turn2us , is calling for a temporary Coronavirus Emergency Income Support Scheme to ensure people left in difficulty can access the resources they need .
The Trussell Trust said the new data shows people struggling with the amount of income they were receiving from working or benefits as the main reason for the increase in need .
Poorest 'twice as likely to die' Meanwhile , new localised death figures published by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) showed those living in the poorest parts of the England and Wales are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from coronavirus than those in the most affluent regions .
The highest mortality rates were in boroughs such as Hackney and Newham and , outside of London , Liverpool , Birmingham and Manchester

The number of households with children going hungry in the UK has almost doubled during the coronavirus lockdown, as a growing number of vulnerable families are struggling to put food on the table.
Data from the Food Foundation found almost a fifth of UK homes with children have been struggling to access food in the past five weeks showing that isolation and stark drops in income have pushed many families into poverty.
The lack of food has forced some households with children to skip meals, while other have been given smaller portions.
The data, which was first seen by The Observer, also found that some 621,000 children were accessing free breakfast clubs before the pandemic, but only 136,000 have been provided with an alternative since.
Food banks record 81% surge
Food banks have recorded a record spike in demand as the coronavirus pandemic continues to cause hardship across Britain.
An 81 per cent increase in emergency food parcels were delivered in the first two weeks of March compared to the same period last year, according to the Trussell Trust released earlier this week.
The data comes as a coalition of anti-poverty charities call for renewed support for vulnerable people, and highlighted those financially hit by Covid-19.
As the outbreak spread, food banks in the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN) saw the need for food parcels rocket, reporting an average 59 per cent rise in need from February to March – 17 times higher than this time last year.
A collective made up of the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), Children’s Society, Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), StepChange, and Turn2us, is calling for a temporary Coronavirus Emergency Income Support Scheme to ensure people left in difficulty can access the resources they need.
The Trussell Trust said the new data shows people struggling with the amount of income they were receiving from working or benefits as the main reason for the increase in need.
Poorest ‘twice as likely to die’
Meanwhile, new localised death figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed those living in the poorest parts of the England and Wales are more than twice as likely to die from coronavirus than those in the most affluent regions.
The highest mortality rates were in boroughs such as Hackney and Newham and, outside of London, Liverpool, Birmingham and Manchester


inews--2020-05-03--Coronavirus latest: Boris Johnson reveals 'contingency plans' were made for his death from Covid-19

Coronavirus latest: Boris Johnson reveals 'contingency plans' were made for his death from Covid-19 when he was admitted to hospital

Coronavirus latest : Boris Johnson reveals 'contingency plans ' were made for his death from Covid-19 when he was admitted to hospital The Prime Minister describes the 'tough old moment ' his life was in jeopardy when he was hospitalised with the coronavirus Boris Johnson has revealed that “ contingency plans ” were made in preparation for his death when his condition continued to deteriorate in hospital .
The Prime Minister was first diagnosed with Covid-19 on 26 March and was admitted to hospital 10 days later , spending three days in intensive care before making a recovery .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson said it was touch and go as to whether he 'd pull through , leaving him to repeatedly question : `` How am I going to get out of this ? ''
`` It was hard to believe that in just a few days my health had deteriorated to this extent , '' he explained , referring to the point he was hooked up to monitors and taken to intensive care , where he was given “ litres and litres of oxygen ” to keep him alive .
He continued : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I won ’ t deny it .
They had a strategy to deal with a ‘ death of Stalin ’ -type scenario .
`` I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place .
“ The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.
” 'It was an extraordinary thing' He went on to describe his frustration that the “ bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction ” before the “ bad moment came ” when doctors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prime Minister up to a ventilator or not .
“ That was when it got a bit ... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally , '' he said .
Elsewhere in the interview , Mr Johnson apparently welled up with tears as he describes the “ wonderful , wonderful ” nursing that aided his recovery .
“ I get emotional about it ... but it was an extraordinary thing , ” he said .
The interview was published just a day after Mr Johnson 's fiancee , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had chosen to partly name their son after the doctors who treated him in ICU at St Thomas ’ Hospital - Dr Nicholas Hart and Dr Nicholas Price .
She wrote : “ Wilfred after Boris ' grandfather , Lawrie after my grandfather , Nicholas after Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick Hart - the two doctors that saved Boris ' life last month .
“ Thank you so , so much to the incredible NHS maternity team at UCLH that looked after us so well .
I could n't be happier .
@ @ @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson has revealed that “contingency plans” were made in preparation for his death when his condition continued to deteriorate in hospital.
The Prime Minister was first diagnosed with Covid-19 on 26 March and was admitted to hospital 10 days later, spending three days in intensive care before making a recovery.
Speaking to The Sun on Sunday, Mr Johnson said it was touch and go as to whether he’d pull through, leaving him to repeatedly question: “How am I going to get out of this?”
“It was hard to believe that in just a few days my health had deteriorated to this extent,” he explained, referring to the point he was hooked up to monitors and taken to intensive care, where he was given “litres and litres of oxygen” to keep him alive.
He continued: “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.
“I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place.
“The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.”
‘It was an extraordinary thing’
He went on to describe his frustration that the “bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction” before the “bad moment came” when doctors were forced to decide whether to hook the Prime Minister up to a ventilator or not.
“That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally,” he said.
Elsewhere in the interview, Mr Johnson apparently welled up with tears as he describes the “wonderful, wonderful” nursing that aided his recovery.
“I get emotional about it… but it was an extraordinary thing,” he said.
Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson
The interview was published just a day after Mr Johnson’s fiancee, Carrie Symonds, revealed that the couple had chosen to partly name their son after the doctors who treated him in ICU at St Thomas’ Hospital – Dr Nicholas Hart and Dr Nicholas Price.
He was born on Wednesday – just 17 days after the Prime Minister was discharged from hospital.
“Introducing Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson born on 29.04.20 at 9am,” Ms Symonds captioned a post of the child on Instagram on Saturday.
She wrote: “Wilfred after Boris’ grandfather, Lawrie after my grandfather, Nicholas after Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick Hart – the two doctors that saved Boris’ life last month.
“Thank you so, so much to the incredible NHS maternity team at UCLH that looked after us so well. I couldn’t be happier. My heart is full.”
As of Saturday afternoon, the total number of reported coronavirus-related deaths in the UK now stands at 28,131 – an increase of 621 on the figure reported on Friday.


inews--2020-05-03--When is Star Wars Day 2020? How 'May the fourth be with you' began, and how to watch the it on Disne

When is Star Wars Day 2020? How 'May the fourth be with you' began, and how to watch the it on Disney+

When is Star Wars Day 2020 ?
How 'May the fourth be with you ' began , and how to watch the it on Disney+ The ritual date for Star Wars fans is back - and so are the offers and new releases The annual occasion , on 4 May , shows no sign of relenting despite nearly four decades having passed since the first film of the iconic space franchise was released .
Thousands are set to mark 'May the Fourth be with you ' this year , with brands also jumping on board to introduce dedicated offers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about Star Wars Day and what is happening to celebrate it .
In pre-lockdown times fans went to great lengths to celebrate the day ( Photo : Charles McQuillan/Getty Images ) Star Wars Day , on 4 May , is the designated date die-hard fans of the franchise have chosen to mark the success of the blockbuster films and their enduring legacy .
The makers of Star Wars have built a huge fanbase since the first film was released in 1977 , with numerous new instalments and TV series released in recent decades @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pun 'May the 4th be with you ' , resembling the refrain of its key characters : 'May the force be with you ' .
How to watch Star Wars on the big day Disney + UK launched on Tuesday with Star Wars , Pixar and Marvel movies ( Disney ) But those who fancy re-watching some of them are in luck as the Disney+ streaming service is showing them all .
You can sign up with a seven day free trial , and it is then £5.99 a month or £59.99 a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day by releasing Star Wars : The Rise of Skywalker , the final chapter of the Skywalker saga directed by JJ Abrams and starring Carrie Fisher , Mark Hamill , Adam Driver , Daisy Ridley and others .
Marvel and Star Wars content will also be available ( Photo : Disney ) Arguably most exciting of all is the release of the series finale of animated series Star Wars : The Clone Wars .
How you can celebrate Star Wars Day With much of the world on lockdown or with stringent social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might have to settle for a feet-up movie day this year .
Star Wars fans typically go to town for May the fourth ( Photo : AFP via Getty Images )

Star Wars Day is always a staple date in the calendar for thousands of fans across the globe.
The annual occasion, on 4 May, shows no sign of relenting despite nearly four decades having passed since the first film of the iconic space franchise was released.
Thousands are set to mark ‘May the Fourth be with you’ this year, with brands also jumping on board to introduce dedicated offers.
Here is what you need to know about Star Wars Day and what is happening to celebrate it.
What is Star Wars Day?
Star Wars Day, on 4 May, is the designated date die-hard fans of the franchise have chosen to mark the success of the blockbuster films and their enduring legacy.
The makers of Star Wars have built a huge fanbase since the first film was released in 1977, with numerous new instalments and TV series released in recent decades.
The day was chosen for the pun ‘May the 4th be with you’, resembling the refrain of its key characters: ‘May the force be with you’.
How to watch Star Wars on the big day
Anyone celebrating Star Wars Day is likely well attuned with the contents of the films.
But those who fancy re-watching some of them are in luck as the Disney+ streaming service is showing them all. You can sign up with a seven day free trial, and it is then £5.99 a month or £59.99 a year.
Disney is also making the day by releasing Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the final chapter of the Skywalker saga directed by JJ Abrams and starring Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley and others.
Disney will also release an eight-episode documentary series about the making of Star Wars: The Mandalorian space TV series.
Arguably most exciting of all is the release of the series finale of animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars.
How you can celebrate Star Wars Day
With much of the world on lockdown or with stringent social distancing measures in force, Star Wars fans might have to settle for a feet-up movie day this year.
However, several companies are rolling out special offers for the day, including up to £10 slashed from the usual price of PlayStation game Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.
Those who fancy a board game can also get the Star Wars Empire vs Rebellion Card Game for better than half price off Amazon at £3.87.
Meanwhile, Lego models of the Star Wars universe are available for £89.99 for Yoda, £54.99 for the Stormtrooper helmet, £99.99 for Kylo Ren’s Shuttle Starship and £149.99 for Millenium Falcon Starship.


inews--2020-05-03--Primates: when Chris Packham's documentary is on BBC One, and the animals featured

Primates : when Chris Packham 's documentary is on BBC One , and the animals featured The three-episode adventure takes viewers around the world for an intimate look at how monkeys , apes and lemurs have adapted to survive New BBC documentary series Primates aims to uncover the lives of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom .
Described by the broadcaster as the “ definitive celebration of the animals you thought you knew ” , the three-episode adventure takes viewers around the world for an intimate look at how monkeys , apes and lemurs have adapted to survive in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socialise and develop cultures they pass on to future generations .
“ At the heart of this ground-breaking series is incredible animal behaviour , ” reads the synopsis .
“ New technology has captured primates on their level and in their world , whether that ’ s in the treetops of a flooded forest , or the tangled undergrowth of the Sri Lankan night.
” Here 's everything you need to know about it .
The next episode , Family Matters , airs Sunday 3 May at 8.15pm , and the third , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same time next week .
The executive producer of the series is Michael Gunton , known for his work on Big Cats , Dynasties and Planet Earth II .
It took the Primates team two years to capture the footage over 28 filming expeditions across the world .
New technology allowed them to capture primates on their level , using tiny remote cameras , canopy cams and a huge , state of the heart 360 degree rig .
What can we expect from the first episode ?
Secrets of Survival explores the strategies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lemurs in different areas of the world use in order to ensure their survival .
The team follows a troop of bearded capuchins in Brazil ’ s badlands as they struggle to find food during a drought and turn to tools in order to get what they need .
Meanwhile , on a remote island off of the west African coastline , we mean the little known drill species , who must fight for a place in their hierarchy or risk exile .
Lion-tailed macaques fight squirrels for jackfruit in the Western Ghats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Congo basin , volcanic slopes are the homes of the silverback mountain gorillas .
One leader shows his softer side as a caring father raising his young .
Which key species are set to be featured ?

New BBC documentary series Primates aims to uncover the lives of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
Described by the broadcaster as the “definitive celebration of the animals you thought you knew”, the three-episode adventure takes viewers around the world for an intimate look at how monkeys, apes and lemurs have adapted to survive in the most unexpected places, how they socialise and develop cultures they pass on to future generations.
“At the heart of this ground-breaking series is incredible animal behaviour,” reads the synopsis. “New technology has captured primates on their level and in their world, whether that’s in the treetops of a flooded forest, or the tangled undergrowth of the Sri Lankan night.”
Here’s everything you need to know about it.
When does Primates start?
The next episode has been postponed because of the Prime Ministers update tonight but Protecting Primates will air next week on Sunday 17 May at 8.15pm.
Who made the series?
The executive producer of the series is Michael Gunton, known for his work on Big Cats, Dynasties and Planet Earth II.
Environmentalist and trained zoologist Chris Packham is the narrator.
It took the Primates team two years to capture the footage over 28 filming expeditions across the world.
New technology allowed them to capture primates on their level, using tiny remote cameras, canopy cams and a huge, state of the heart 360 degree rig.
What can we expect from the first episode?
Secrets of Survival explores the strategies and coping mechanisms monkeys, apes and lemurs in different areas of the world use in order to ensure their survival.
The team follows a troop of bearded capuchins in Brazil’s badlands as they struggle to find food during a drought and turn to tools in order to get what they need.
Meanwhile, on a remote island off of the west African coastline, we mean the little known drill species, who must fight for a place in their hierarchy or risk exile.
Lion-tailed macaques fight squirrels for jackfruit in the Western Ghats of India, while on the edge of the Congo basin, volcanic slopes are the homes of the silverback mountain gorillas. One leader shows his softer side as a caring father raising his young.
Problem-solving baboons and rhesus macaques also make an appearance.
Which key species are set to be featured?
Producers listed the following primates who appear in the documentary series in alphabetical order:
Barbary macaque – Morocco
Bearded capuchin – Brazil
Blue-eyed black lemur – Madagascar
Bornean orangutan – Borneo
Chimpanzee – Uganda
Common marmoset – Brazil
Drill – Bioko, Equatorial Guinea
Dusky langur – Malaysia
Gray slender loris – Sri Lanka
Golden-headed lion tamarin – Brazil
Hanuman langur – India
Kipunji – Tanzania
Lac Alaotra gentle lemur – Madagascar
Lar gibbon – Thailand
Lesser bush baby – South Africa
Lion-tailed macaque – India
Long-tailed macaque – Thailand
Mountain gorilla – Democratic Republic of Congo
Owl monkey – Argentina
Rhesus macaque – Nepal
Tapanuli orangutan – Sumatra
White-cheeked spider monkey – Brazil
White uakari – Brazil
Yellow baboon – Zambia