inews--2020-04-19--Sponsors of Premier League clubs have begun consulting lawyers to find out when they can claw money

Sponsors of Premier League clubs have begun consulting lawyers to find out when they can claw money back or terminate contracts A leading sports lawyer has told i that almost all sponsorship contracts will include detailed ‘ force majeure ’ clauses In most cases , the time period will have begun from the club ’ s last domestic game - for all Premier League clubs that is between March 7 and March 9 - and the agreements will vary from club to club , but most will start feeling the pinch at the beginning of May .
Liverpool last played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League last-16 game against Atletico Madrid ( Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images ) “ At that point , the ‘ innocent party ’ , the party that has been able to perform - i.e .
the sponsors that have still been able to pay - may well then have the right to terminate altogether .
It is recognition that they haven ’ t got the full value of the contract they agreed .
At what point the tap may be turned off “ Most of these clauses give a leeway of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not quite at that point , but if the period where no football can take place in stadiums continues , at that point a sponsor may well be able to legitimately walk away from the terms of the contract .
“ We ’ ve had a number of clients over the last few weeks who ’ ve asked us to look at agreements for when that is .
They accept things will continue as normal for now but want to know at what point the tap may be turned off and renegotiations required.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ return behind closed doors once it is deemed safe to resume ( Photo by Ashley Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images ) Southampton and West Ham were the first to agree short-term pay reductions with their players , but others have found the task more challenging .
Arsenal ’ s players have agreed to a 12.5 per cent pay cut over the next 12 months , following pressure from the announcement that the club ’ s executive team agreed to forgo 30 per cent of salaries over the same period .
Manchester United have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , along with all staff , in full , but concede that if football is unable to resume for the foreseeable then there will reach a point when they will have to reconsider .
Most sponsors will be wary of terminating contracts at this time and doing irrevocable damage to relationships that could hurt future business , but those who have been particularly affected by the financial impact of the coronavirus outbreak may be forced to severe ties .
“ The reality is most people wouldn ’ t terminate their contract fully , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is different .
Some sponsors going through significant financial pain at the moment may look to exit long-term contracts early .
Most would want to continue the partnership , but would want recognition they have lost out from this period .
They could , perhaps , pay 50 per cent less next year , or have a new pool of rights , such as more time on the big screen or more prominence .

Pressure is growing on Premier League clubs to agree wage reductions with their players as sponsors have begun consulting with their lawyers about when they can claw back money from deals or even terminate contracts.
A leading sports lawyer has told i that almost all sponsorship contracts will include detailed ‘force majeure’ clauses that are typically triggered between 30 and 90 days, allowing sponsors to walk away if they are no longer receiving the service for which they paid.
In most cases, the time period will have begun from the club’s last domestic game – for all Premier League clubs that is between March 7 and March 9 – and the agreements will vary from club to club, but most will start feeling the pinch at the beginning of May.
Contracts could be terminated
“A well-drafted contract will have a detailed force majeure clause that says if something unforeseen occurs the parties will be relieved from their obligations during the period of it,” Simon Leaf, head of sport for leading sports lawyers Mishcon de Reya, told i. “It is usually between 30 and 90 days.
“At that point, the ‘innocent party’, the party that has been able to perform – i.e. the sponsors that have still been able to pay – may well then have the right to terminate altogether. It is recognition that they haven’t got the full value of the contract they agreed.
“Many of these agreements will contain longstop dates that allow the paying party to walk away if they haven’t been able to enjoy their rights for an extended period of time.
At what point the tap may be turned off
“Most of these clauses give a leeway of about 60 days. We’re not quite at that point, but if the period where no football can take place in stadiums continues, at that point a sponsor may well be able to legitimately walk away from the terms of the contract.
“We’ve had a number of clients over the last few weeks who’ve asked us to look at agreements for when that is. They accept things will continue as normal for now but want to know at what point the tap may be turned off and renegotiations required.”
Having reached an impasse in negotiations with the Professional Footballers’ Association, the Premier League were unable to agree to a league-wide pay reduction of 30 per cent with players.
Pay cut struggles
Clubs have been left to try to negotiate pay deals – either cuts or deferrals – with their playing squads, whose earnings constitute the majority of their expenditure.
Southampton and West Ham were the first to agree short-term pay reductions with their players, but others have found the task more challenging. Arsenal’s players have agreed to a 12.5 per cent pay cut over the next 12 months, following pressure from the announcement that the club’s executive team agreed to forgo 30 per cent of salaries over the same period.
Manchester United have committed to continuing to pay their players, along with all staff, in full, but concede that if football is unable to resume for the foreseeable then there will reach a point when they will have to reconsider.
Hand-in-hand
Most sponsors will be wary of terminating contracts at this time and doing irrevocable damage to relationships that could hurt future business, but those who have been particularly affected by the financial impact of the coronavirus outbreak may be forced to severe ties.
“The reality is most people wouldn’t terminate their contract fully,” Leaf said. “Every situation is different. Some sponsors going through significant financial pain at the moment may look to exit long-term contracts early. Most would want to continue the partnership, but would want recognition they have lost out from this period. They could, perhaps, pay 50 per cent less next year, or have a new pool of rights, such as more time on the big screen or more prominence.
“The last thing anyone wants is to terminate an agreement and end up in a lengthy court battle that could prove to be expensive and distracting. In long-term sponsorship relationships people tend to want to avoid early termination and reach a compromise that keeps everyone happy.”


inews--2020-04-19--I appreciate my tiny garden so much in the coronavirus pandemic that I am talking to my plants

I appreciate my tiny garden so much in the coronavirus pandemic that I am talking to my plants There is truth in the notion that among the horrors of the crisis , we are learning to look at the natural beauty around us To anyone else it is merely a humdrum garden flower , to me my first solitary rose of spring symbolises survival and personal renewal ; something to cherish and contemplate .
There is truth in the clichéd notion that among the hardship and horror of the Covid19 pandemic , we are learning genuinely to count some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those that do not , high up on my list is the privilege of having a garden , albeit tiny .
While affluent television presenters lambast ordinary people for enjoying the park or common “ in the wrong way ” , I ’ m all too aware of the many advantages that having even a few square metres bestows upon one ’ s physical and mental health .
And , as calls to reopen beleaguered garden centres become ever more urgent in this crucial one-off buying period , I have never been more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – and the personal satisfaction it offers .
The natural world has never looked more beautiful ( Photo : RHS ) A car dealer or shoe-shop will still have cars and shoes to sell come July .
Plants left on the rickety shelves will wither or be wasted .
There is surely a way to reopen garden centres this week along the self-distancing lines of supermarkets , particularly when so much of their space is outdoors .
It would be to all our benefit .
The good weather and being “ trapped ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plants and our physical space in a way once unimaginable .
Living on the Heathrow flight-path means a sudden peace I did not realise I even needed .
Yes , there is actual birdsong in west London , along with the strains of Spanish , Dutch and Polish wafting over from more distant neighbours .
Space to lay out a yoga mat is a spiritual balm .
Suddenly , next door ’ s six-year-old standing on a bench to peek over our fence and shout three gardens across to his five-year-old friend is @ @ @ @ @ @ @

It slowly revealed itself over the past week, displaying a sunny, scented yellow beauty.
To anyone else it is merely a humdrum garden flower, to me my first solitary rose of spring symbolises survival and personal renewal; something to cherish and contemplate.
There is truth in the clichéd notion that among the hardship and horror of the Covid19 pandemic, we are learning genuinely to count some of our blessings.
With due sensitivity to those that do not, high up on my list is the privilege of having a garden, albeit tiny.
While affluent television presenters lambast ordinary people for enjoying the park or common “in the wrong way”, I’m all too aware of the many advantages that having even a few square metres bestows upon one’s physical and mental health.
And, as calls to reopen beleaguered garden centres become ever more urgent in this crucial one-off buying period, I have never been more conscious of that seed-to-bulb, plant-to-bloom cycle – and the personal satisfaction it offers.
April to June is like other retailers’ Christmas for the £25bn UK horticulture industry.
Unlike other sectors, the stock is dependent on being bought now.
A car dealer or shoe-shop will still have cars and shoes to sell come July. Plants left on the rickety shelves will wither or be wasted. There is surely a way to reopen garden centres this week along the self-distancing lines of supermarkets, particularly when so much of their space is outdoors. It would be to all our benefit.
Having refurbished my new house a year ago, this is my first full planting spring.
The good weather and being “trapped” at home has focused attention on both plants and our physical space in a way once unimaginable. Living on the Heathrow flight-path means a sudden peace I did not realise I even needed.
Yes, there is actual birdsong in west London, along with the strains of Spanish, Dutch and Polish wafting over from more distant neighbours. Space to lay out a yoga mat is a spiritual balm.
Suddenly, next door’s six-year-old standing on a bench to peek over our fence and shout three gardens across to his five-year-old friend is cause for joy, not irritation.
Likewise, our family keepy-uppy obsession and my Prince Charles-like need to chat to my new friends Jasmine, Basil and, of course, Rose.


inews--2020-04-19--The leaked Labour report reveals a shocking level of racism and sexism towards its black MPs

The leaked Labour report reveals a shocking level of racism and sexism towards its black MPs The messages about Dawn Butler and Diane Abbott are a visceral reminder of the discrimination black women face in the workplace Many black British women feel a particular , protective kind of kinship toward black female MPs , grateful for their representation both figuratively and literally in the face of media attacks .
So the leak of an internal report from Labour HQ , which alleges senior staff exhibiting the very prejudice they claim to fight against , has been especially hard to digest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plethora of party horrors : allegations of misuse of funds , the continued undermining of the 2017 electoral campaign and the then-leader Jeremy Corbyn ’ s attempts to investigate anti-Semitism in the party , as well as vicious criticism of leading Labour figures by staff members in private messages .
One staff member “ engaged in a classic racist trope ” by referring to the Hackney North MP as an “ angry woman ” , while another called her “ repulsive.
” When Ms Abbott was found crying in the toilets in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ female staff member suggested telling a Channel 4 journalist of her whereabouts .
Another replied that he already had , followed by a wink emoji .
Diane Abbott was dehumanised by members of her own party ( Photo : Getty Images ) One can only fathom the level of dehumanisation that has taken place , for peers to gleefully relish in bullying that has brought a colleague to the brink and then contribute to it .
Society still fails to fully acknowledge the scourges of sexism and racism , but we are miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of both that doubly penalises black women in distinct ways .
It is why , while female MPs received disproportionate abuse in the six weeks before the last general election , Diane Abbott alone received almost half of all the abusive tweets sent .
The report is just a visible and visceral reminder about what black women often have to face within the workplace – or in this case , politics .
Attacks that hinge on your identity are not just likely from the expected groups – opposing parties , the press – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ colleagues .
Even if on you ’ re on the same political side , many also ally with white supremacy and sexism .
Several black women can relate to instances outlined in the documents , from breakdowns in the loos to facing contempt for speaking out against discrimination .
The report showed two female staff members deriding Ms Butler ’ s anti-racism in a mocking set of messages .
“ Did she not accuse the LP and it ’ s staff of being racist this week ?
Nice , ” read one .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues Ms Butler raises regarding racism , then who do we turn to to fight inequality ?
Those who privately pour scorn on our concerns or those who do so publicly , such as Boris Johnson , who once casually referred to black people as “ piccaninnies ” in a newspaper column ?

Many black British women feel a particular, protective kind of kinship toward black female MPs, grateful for their representation both figuratively and literally in the face of media attacks.
So the leak of an internal report from Labour HQ, which alleges senior staff exhibiting the very prejudice they claim to fight against, has been especially hard to digest.
The 860-page document has unearthed a plethora of party horrors: allegations of misuse of funds, the continued undermining of the 2017 electoral campaign and the then-leader Jeremy Corbyn’s attempts to investigate anti-Semitism in the party, as well as vicious criticism of leading Labour figures by staff members in private messages.
The entire dossier is hard to swallow, but the messages regarding Dawn Butler and Diane Abbott left a singularly bitter aftertaste.
One staff member “engaged in a classic racist trope” by referring to the Hackney North MP as an “angry woman”, while another called her “repulsive.”
When Ms Abbott was found crying in the toilets in the wake of abuse in 2017, a female staff member suggested telling a Channel 4 journalist of her whereabouts. Another replied that he already had, followed by a wink emoji.
One can only fathom the level of dehumanisation that has taken place, for peers to gleefully relish in bullying that has brought a colleague to the brink and then contribute to it.
Society still fails to fully acknowledge the scourges of sexism and racism, but we are miles from reckoning with misogynoir – a combination of both that doubly penalises black women in distinct ways.
It is why Ms Butler was once mistaken for a cleaner by another MP.
It is why, while female MPs received disproportionate abuse in the six weeks before the last general election, Diane Abbott alone received almost half of all the abusive tweets sent.
The report is just a visible and visceral reminder about what black women often have to face within the workplace – or in this case, politics. Attacks that hinge on your identity are not just likely from the expected groups – opposing parties, the press – but must be anticipated from your own colleagues.
Even if on you’re on the same political side, many also ally with white supremacy and sexism.
Several black women can relate to instances outlined in the documents, from breakdowns in the loos to facing contempt for speaking out against discrimination.
The report showed two female staff members deriding Ms Butler’s anti-racism in a mocking set of messages. “Did she not accuse the LP and it’s staff of being racist this week? Nice,” read one.
If Labour members are scoffing at the issues Ms Butler raises regarding racism, then who do we turn to to fight inequality?
Those who privately pour scorn on our concerns or those who do so publicly, such as Boris Johnson, who once casually referred to black people as “piccaninnies” in a newspaper column?
In response to this report, we need a stronger sign of solidarity from the party which has let down black female MPs so terribly.


inews--2020-04-19--The NHS has undergone an extraordinary transformation to cope with the coronavirus crisis despite ye

The NHS has undergone an extraordinary transformation to cope with the coronavirus crisis despite years of underfunding We should recognise and celebrate the resourcefulness of our NHS , with an influx of new and returning doctors and help from volunteers ' I want to highlight just some of the displays of resourcefulness and resilience that I ’ ve witnessed first-hand over the last week ' ( Photo : Pexels ) I long for the week when I can write a column that isn ’ t dominated by the topic of this pandemic .
But sadly I suspect we remain a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have turned our operating theatres into a high dependency ward which is now functioning as if this had been its purpose all along .
And our emergency department has undergone a full makeover ; I fully expect to be disoriented when the nurse in PPE at the A & E entrance , asking if you ’ ve had a cough or a fever , is no longer a permanent fixture .
Rainbow pictures , offering messages of support for the NHS ( Photo : GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images ) But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respond to this overwhelming demand go to show that , in a time of crisis , the NHS has proven to be resourceful and proactive .
To suggest otherwise is frankly insulting , not just to frontline healthcare workers , but to the efforts of NHS managers as well .
So I want to highlight just some of the displays of resourcefulness and resilience that I ’ ve witnessed first-hand over the last week .
While many of our colleagues are at home self-isolating at any one point , we have also seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As part of a mass redeployment scheme , we have welcomed back old friends who have been away from the front line doing research , working in the community or just taking time out to be with family .
It ’ s almost as if they ’ d never been away as they slip seamlessly back into their old jobs , personifying the team spirit that fuels our health service day in , day out .
And of course , we have also welcomed an entirely new cohort of colleagues in the form @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and distribution of free hot meals from local businesses , to providing front-of-house patient information , I hope I speak on behalf of all NHS staff when I say their contributions have not gone unnoticed and have kept us going through very difficult times .
Last week I spoke about the struggles of caring for patients dying from Covid-19 when visiting rules have been severely restricted .
Most hospitals allow visitors when a patient is at the end of life , but the reality is that patients are dying with much less contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the case .
Rainbow picture close to St Thomas ' Hospital in London .
( Photo : GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images ) But we ’ ve now rolled out the use of tablets to try and maximise the communication patients can have with their loved ones .
This week one of my senior colleagues was able to co-ordinate a video call between the relatives and the chaplain visiting the patient at her bedside .

I long for the week when I can write a column that isn’t dominated by the topic of this pandemic. But sadly I suspect we remain a long way off from that point.
My hospital has now reached a sort of “coronavirus status quo”.
Most wards are now dedicated to looking after patients who are suffering from Covid-19.
We have turned our operating theatres into a high dependency ward which is now functioning as if this had been its purpose all along.
And our emergency department has undergone a full makeover; I fully expect to be disoriented when the nurse in PPE at the A&E entrance, asking if you’ve had a cough or a fever, is no longer a permanent fixture.
The transformations that have taken place over the past month have been nothing short of extraordinary.
Our health service has acquired a reputation for unnecessary bureaucracy and inefficiency over the years.
But the adaptations that our hospitals have undergone to respond to this overwhelming demand go to show that, in a time of crisis, the NHS has proven to be resourceful and proactive.
To suggest otherwise is frankly insulting, not just to frontline healthcare workers, but to the efforts of NHS managers as well. So I want to highlight just some of the displays of resourcefulness and resilience that I’ve witnessed first-hand over the last week.
While many of our colleagues are at home self-isolating at any one point, we have also seen a sudden influx of new colleagues. As part of a mass redeployment scheme, we have welcomed back old friends who have been away from the front line doing research, working in the community or just taking time out to be with family.
It’s almost as if they’d never been away as they slip seamlessly back into their old jobs, personifying the team spirit that fuels our health service day in, day out.
And of course, we have also welcomed an entirely new cohort of colleagues in the form of volunteers.
Thousands of people across the country signed up to support the NHS in its time of need and how welcome their efforts have been.
From co-ordinating the delivery and distribution of free hot meals from local businesses, to providing front-of-house patient information, I hope I speak on behalf of all NHS staff when I say their contributions have not gone unnoticed and have kept us going through very difficult times.
Last week I spoke about the struggles of caring for patients dying from Covid-19 when visiting rules have been severely restricted. Most hospitals allow visitors when a patient is at the end of life, but the reality is that patients are dying with much less contact with family and friends than would normally be the case.
This is taking its toll on patients, relatives and staff alike.
But we’ve now rolled out the use of tablets to try and maximise the communication patients can have with their loved ones. This week one of my senior colleagues was able to co-ordinate a video call between the relatives and the chaplain visiting the patient at her bedside.
These are obviously incredibly sad circumstances but I cannot stress enough how efforts like this can give a family comfort and reassurance.
I could continue to write on this topic for much longer.
But I hope these examples serve as a testament to the ability of the NHS to adapt in difficult circumstances.
No one is suggesting that an organisation of its size that has suffered from years of underfunding was going to perform perfectly under pressure.
But displays of resourcefulness and adaptation at a time of crisis should not go unnoticed.
The Secret Medic works in the NHS


inews--2020-04-20--What time is the UK coronavirus speech today? Rishi Sunak set to stand in for Boris Johnson - here's

What time is the UK coronavirus speech today? Rishi Sunak set to stand in for Boris Johnson - here's how to watch live

What time is the UK coronavirus speech today ?
Rishi Sunak set to stand in for Boris Johnson - here 's how to watch live The Prime Minister i recovering at Chequers , but cabinet ministers continue to deputise for him at the daily Covid-19 briefings Rishi Sunak is set to stand in for Boris Johnson to deliver today 's coronavirus press conference to the UK as he continues his recovery at Chequers .
The daily briefings were introduced in response to calls for improved communication from the government on their plan to tackle the spread of Covid-19 , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic .
When do the daily press briefings take place ?
A Number 10 spokeswoman said that today ’ s briefing would take place at 5pm , though this is subject to change .
In general the press briefings take place between 4pm and 6pm , with previous meetings tending to start just after 5pm on weekdays and at 2.30pm on weekends .
A number 10 spokesperson said that they would like to “ see [ the briefings held at ] a consistent time.
” Who will be holding today 's press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press briefings ?
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson refused to name a date for English children to go back to school and apologised to pupils who have seen their education disrupted by the coronavirus crisis .
He confirmed that officials are examining the experiences of other countries such as Denmark where schools are already reopening as the first step in the easing of lockdown restrictions .
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways .
It is caused by a virus called coronavirus , and started in Wuhan in China in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the major symptoms are a high temperature ( feeling hot to the touch on your chest or back ) and a new , continuous cough ( either coughing a lot for over an hour , or having three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours ) .
There have also been reports of the illness causing flu-like symptoms , such as aches and pains , nasal congestion , runny nose and a sore throat .
It ’ s important to remember that some people may become infected but won ’ t develop any @ @ @ @ @

The coronavirus briefing, so much a part of the UK lockdown, has only been airing intermittently in the past few weeks.
Today, Boris Johnson will give the latest update, in which he is expected to announce further easing of lockdown measures and new funding for the NHS.
The Prime Minister chaired the final daily press conference on Monday 30 June after those announcing eagerly-anticipated changes to coronavirus lockdown rules coming on 4 July in a lunchtime address to the House of Commons.
Daily coronavirus briefings, which came to an end after that, were introduced in response to calls for improved communication from the government on their plan to tackle the spread of Covid-19, and give the nation the latest updates on the pandemic.
When do the daily press briefings take place?
Rather than its familiar 5pm slot, today’s Downing Street briefing is expected begin earlier, at around 11.00am.
In general the press conferences took place between 4pm and 6pm, with the majority of the daily meetings tending to start just after 5pm on weekdays and at 2.30pm on weekends.
A number 10 spokesperson said that they would like to “see [the briefings held at] a consistent time.”
There were, of course, a few notable exceptions, such as when it was forced to a later time slot after the Prime Minister’s key adviser Dominic Cummings gave a rare public statement regarding him travelling from London to Durham during lockdown.
Who will appear at today’s press conference?
It has not been confirmed who will join Mr Johnson for today’s conference – or indeed if he will appear alone as became increasingly the norm in the briefing’s latter weeks.
As well as the the Prime Minister and the Health Secretary Matt Hancock, various other cabinet ministers stepped up in recent weeks, including Rishi Sunak, Alok Sharma, Grant Shapps and Michael Gove.
The Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty and the Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance also became regular fixtures during the briefings, while the Head of NHS England Simon Stevens has made numerous appearances.
Where can I watch the press briefings?
The press briefings will be available to watch live on BBC News.
You can watch online through BBC iPlayer here, while Sky News has a live YouTube stream here.


inews--2020-04-20--Sore throat and coronavirus: NHS and WHO advice on Covid-19 symptoms explained

Sore throat and coronavirus : NHS and WHO advice on Covid-19 symptoms explained The most common symptoms of coronavirus are a fever , tiredness and a dry cough , according to the ( WHO ) While widely publicised symptoms of the virus include a new , persistent cough and a high temperature , there are other less common symptoms to look out for - many of which resemble common cold and flu symptoms .
It is not considered one of the most common symptoms , although some people with coronavirus may suffer from it .
Sore throats are usually caused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu , and can cause pain when swallowing , redness in the back of the mouth , a mild cough , and make the throat dry and scratchy .
What are the other symptoms of coronavirus ?
Around one in six people who contract the virus become seriously ill and develop difficulty breathing , and about 80 per cent recover without needing any special treatment .
The virus is thought to spread from human to human via small droplets from the nose or mouth when someone coughs , sneezes or exhales .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ objects or surfaces , when people touch their eyes , nose or mouth , or if the droplets are breathed in .
People who are asymptomatic pose a risk of spreading the virus to others , as they are unaware they need to self-isolate .
It is possible that a large number of people could already have coronavirus despite not showing any symptoms , but as yet it is impossible to tell .
It is likely that this will occur more often in the healthiest and younger age groups , although it can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What should I do if I display symptoms ?
Health experts have warned those who experience symptoms of the virus , including a new or dry cough , or a high temperature , to self-isolate for two weeks until the symptoms have ended .
All other members of the household should also self-isolate for at least 14 days , even if they themselves do not have any symptoms .
If anyone else develops symptoms during that time , that person must stay home for an additional seven days from when they developed symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?

Strict lockdown measures have been enforced in the UK an effort to minimise social contact and thereby reduce the spread of Covid-19.
While widely publicised symptoms of the virus include a new, persistent cough and a high temperature, there are other less common symptoms to look out for – many of which resemble common cold and flu symptoms.
So can a sore throat indicate that you have coronavirus? Here’s what you should know.
Is a sore throat a symptom of coronavirus?
A sore throat can be a sign of a coronavirus infection, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
It is not considered one of the most common symptoms, although some people with coronavirus may suffer from it.
Sore throats are usually caused by viruses, such as cold or flu, and can cause pain when swallowing, redness in the back of the mouth, a mild cough, and make the throat dry and scratchy.
What are the other symptoms of coronavirus?
The most common symptoms of coronavirus are a fever, tiredness and a dry cough, according to the (WHO).
However, some people may also suffer with the following:
aches and pains nasal congestion runny nose sore throat diarrhoea
These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually.
Around one in six people who contract the virus become seriously ill and develop difficulty breathing, and about 80 per cent recover without needing any special treatment.
Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop a serious illness.
How is coronavirus spread?
The virus is thought to spread from human to human via small droplets from the nose or mouth when someone coughs, sneezes or exhales.
These droplets can then be picked up from objects or surfaces, when people touch their eyes, nose or mouth, or if the droplets are breathed in.
Does everyone display symptoms?
Some people can become infected with coronavirus and not develop any symptoms, or feel unwell.
If you don’t show any symptoms, this is known as being asymptomatic.
People who are asymptomatic pose a risk of spreading the virus to others, as they are unaware they need to self-isolate.
As such, they could be passing the virus on to others without knowing.
It is possible that a large number of people could already have coronavirus despite not showing any symptoms, but as yet it is impossible to tell.
It is likely that this will occur more often in the healthiest and younger age groups, although it cannot be confirmed without a test.
What should I do if I display symptoms?
Health experts have warned those who experience symptoms of the virus, including a new or dry cough, or a high temperature, to self-isolate for two weeks until the symptoms have ended.
All other members of the household should also self-isolate for at least 14 days, even if they themselves do not have any symptoms.
If anyone else develops symptoms during that time, that person must stay home for an additional seven days from when they developed symptoms.
Once this period has passed they no longer need to isolate, providing the symptoms have ended.
When should I seek medical help?
If you suffer any symptoms of coronavirus, Public Health England (PHE) are urging people not to visit their GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.
You should use NHS online services instead.
Only call 111 if:
you are not able to get online you have been instructed to call your symptoms worsen
Call 999 for help if you have a serious or life-threatening emergency, and tell the call adviser if you have coronavirus symptoms.


inews--2020-04-20--Can I work if I'm furloughed and who claims 80% of wages? UK job retention scheme explained

Can I work if I 'm furloughed and who claims 80 % of wages ?
UK job retention scheme explained The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme offers employers grants from HMRC to cover 80 per cent of wages The Government has since announced the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme , which offers employers grants from HMRC to cover 80 per cent of the wages of staff who are on a payroll but are unable to work because of the outbreak .
This amount will cover £2,500 a month .
In order to do this , an employer must classify a worker as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have been asked to stop working because of the coronavirus , but have not been made redundant .
A worker can only be classified as such if their employer can not afford to cover staff costs because of the outbreak .
Can I work while I am furloughed ?
How will I know if I have been furloughed ?
There is currently no specific test for employers to undertake to prove the business is facing financial hardship because of the coronavirus , but it is advisable to have a way of proving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the business when making the claim to HMRC .
Whether you are on a part-time contract or zero hours , providing you are on a pay roll , you can be furloughed ( Photo : Unsplash ) How many staff can be furloughed at once and for how long ?
Can I be furloughed if I only work part-time ?
Can I work for another employer if I am furloughed ?

The Covid-19 pandemic has hit the UK economy hard, and many businesses are struggling to stay afloat and adapt to Government-imposed measures with an uncertain timescale in place.
This means employers face tough decisions when it comes to supporting their staff and avoiding making redundancies.
The Government has since announced the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which offers employers grants from HMRC to cover 80 per cent of the wages of staff who are on a payroll but are unable to work because of the outbreak. This amount will cover £2,500 a month.
In order to do this, an employer must classify a worker as “furloughed”. This means that they have been asked to stop working because of the coronavirus, but have not been made redundant. A worker can only be classified as such if their employer cannot afford to cover staff costs because of the outbreak.
Here are some of the rules and regulations of being a furloughed worker explained.
Can I work while I am furloughed?
To qualify for this scheme, you should not undertake work for your employer while you are furloughed.
Workers will remain employed while furloughed, and your employer could choose to fund the differences between this payment and your salary.
If your salary is reduced as a result of these changes, you may be eligible for support through the welfare system, including Universal Credit.
The scheme was initially opened for three months, backdated from March 1 to the end of May. It has since been extended by a month to the end of June.
How will I know if I have been furloughed?
Your employer must inform you about any changes to your employment status before they do it.
In order to furlough you, your employer must take the following steps:
Designate affected employees as “furloughed workers”, and notify your employees of this change – changing the status of employees remains subject to existing employment law and, depending on the employment contract, may be subject to negotiation
Submit information to HMRC about the employees that have been furloughed and their earnings through a new online portal (HMRC will set out further details on the information required)
If your business needs short term cash flow support, you may be eligible for a Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan.
There is currently no specific test for employers to undertake to prove the business is facing financial hardship because of the coronavirus, but it is advisable to have a way of proving the impact the outbreak is having on the business when making the claim to HMRC.
How many staff can be furloughed at once and for how long?
Employees can be furloughed for the entire duration of the Job Retention Scheme, starting from 1 March 2020 until the end of June but may be extended beyond that.
There is currently no limit on the number of staff that can be furloughed at any one time.
Can I be furloughed if I only work part-time?
Whether you are on a full-time, part-time, flexible, agency or zero-hours contract, all workers are eligible for the furlough scheme providing they were on the company’s PAYE payroll from 28 February 2020.
If you were made redundant by your employer since 28 February 2020, you can also be covered by the scheme, providing you are first rehired.
Can I work for another employer if I am furloughed?
Staff may be able to work for another employer so long as it does not breach the contractual obligations set out. They should only work outside of the hours they would normally work with the job they have been furloughed from.
Taking an extra weekend job at a supermarket, or running deliveries in the evening, may not breach obligations if your contract stipulates a 9am-5pm working day, for example.


inews--2020-04-20--Benefits increase April 2020: how much tax credits, Universal Credit, Child Benefit and others have

Benefits increase April 2020: how much tax credits, Universal Credit, Child Benefit and others have risen by

Benefits increase April 2020 : how much tax credits , Universal Credit , Child Benefit and others have risen by The Government 's benefits freeze is coming to an end after five years Some benefits claimants will see their payments increase from this April as the five-year-long benefits freeze comes to an end .
It will be the first cash increase claimants of working age benefits have seen since 2015 .
For example , the standard allowance for Universal Credit will increase by 1.7 per cent , raising the monthly total by over £5 for some claimants , or nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduced another increase in response to the coronavirus outbreak , which has forced more people to apply for Universal Credit .
From April , for 12 months , the Universal Credit standard allowance will increase by £20 a week .
The rate of Universal Credit will increase by 1.7 per cent ( Photo : Getty ) Why are some benefits increasing ?
The rates of working age benefits , including Universal Credit and Jobseeker 's Allowance , will increase in spring because the benefits freeze is coming to an end .
Their rates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the former Conservative chancellor George Osborne .
It means that , for the last four years , payments have not risen in line with inflation to reflect the rising cost of living .
But last year the Government announced the benefits freeze would end .
Payments will increase by 1.7 per cent , which was the rate of inflation for September 2019 .
Work and pensions minister Will Quince said : `` The Government are committed to supporting the most vulnerable in our society .
In this order , the Government propose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on increasing benefit and pension rates .
`` With this spending , we are upholding our commitment to the country ’ s pensioners by maintaining the triple lock and helping the poorest pensioners who count on pension credit ; spending an additional £1bn on working-age benefits and ensuring that we continue to support working people ; and providing essential support to disabled people and carers . ''
Some MPs and charities have said that after a four-year freeze , the 1.7 per cent rate of uplift is not enough .
How much will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some claimants will see their income rise increase by 1.7 per cent , in line with inflation .
From £498.89 to £507.37 a month , for couples with a joint claim and where one ( or both ) partner is aged 25 or over .
However , for the next 12 months , there will be a further increase on top of the annual uprating , which is equivalent to £1,040 a year , or £20 a week .
Working Tax Credit ( except the childcare element ) and Child Tax Credit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also increasing by at least 1.7 per cent .

Some benefits claimants will have seen their payments increase from this April as the five-year-long benefits freeze comes to an end.
It is the first cash increase claimants of working age benefits have seen since 2015.
For example, the standard allowance for Universal Credit is increasing by 1.7 per cent, raising the monthly total by over £5 for some claimants, or nearly £65 a year.
The Government has introduced another increase in response to the coronavirus outbreak, which has forced more people to apply for Universal Credit. From April, for 12 months, the Universal Credit standard allowance is increasing by £20 a week.
Why are some benefits increasing?
The rates of working age benefits, including Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance, are increasing because the benefits freeze is coming to an end.
Their rates were capped in 2016 following a decision by the former Conservative chancellor George Osborne. It means that, for the last four years, payments have not risen in line with inflation to reflect the rising cost of living.
The freeze affected Jobseekers’ Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance (personal allowances and work-related activity component, Income Support, Child and Working Tax Credit (non-disability-related elements), Housing benefits (various allowances/premiums and LHA rates), Universal Credit and Child Benefit.
Disability and carer benefits were not affected by the freeze.
But last year the Government announced the benefits freeze would end. Payments will increase by 1.7 per cent, which was the rate of inflation for September 2019.
The Government could spend an extra £5bn on the policy.
Work and pensions minister Will Quince said: “The Government are committed to supporting the most vulnerable in our society. In this order, the Government propose to spend an extra £5bn in 2020-21 on increasing benefit and pension rates.
“With this spending, we are upholding our commitment to the country’s pensioners by maintaining the triple lock and helping the poorest pensioners who count on pension credit; spending an additional £1bn on working-age benefits and ensuring that we continue to support working people; and providing essential support to disabled people and carers.”
Some MPs and charities have said that after a four-year freeze, the 1.7 per cent rate of uplift is not enough.
How much will benefits go up by?
From April, some claimants will see their income rise increase by 1.7 per cent, in line with inflation.
Universal Credit
From £317.82 to £323.22 a month, for claimants aged 25 or over in receipt of the standard allowance.
From £498.89 to £507.37 a month, for couples with a joint claim and where one (or both) partner is aged 25 or over.
Coronavirus increase
However, for the next 12 months, there will be a further increase on top of the annual uprating, which is equivalent to £1,040 a year, or £20 a week.
So the increase will be:
From £317.82 to £409.89 a month, for claimants aged 25 or over in receipt of the standard allowance.
The Working Tax Credit basic element will also increase by more than £1,000 for 12 months.
Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
From £73.10 to £74.35 a week, for a single person aged 25 or over, or a lone parent aged 18 or over.
Child benefit
Child Benefit will go from £20.70 to £21.05 a week.
Working Tax Credit (except the childcare element) and Child Tax Credit (except the family element) are also increasing by at least 1.7 per cent.
Disability and carer benefits
Disability and carer benefits are also set to increase by 1.7 per cent this year, however they were not subject to the benefits freeze.
The higher rate of Attendance Allowance is increasing from £87.65 a week to £89.15.
Carer’s Allowance will move from £66.15 a week to £67.25.
The weekly rate of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will also go up by 1.7 per cent. The enhanced PIP daily living rate and the highest rate for DLA will increase from £87.65 a week to £89.15.
For more details about the increases for different benefits and circumstances, click here.


inews--2020-04-20--Universal Credit increase April 2020: how much the DWP benefit has risen, who is eligible and how to

Universal Credit increase April 2020: how much the DWP benefit has risen, who is eligible and how to claim it

Universal Credit increase April 2020 : how much the DWP benefit has risen , who is eligible and how to claim it Universal Credit payments will rise for the first time in five years , benefitting around 2.5 million households People who receive Universal Credit will have seen a boost to their payments from 6 April , as the benefit is given a 1.7 per cent rise .
The increase will see around 2.5 million households better off following a five year freeze on the amount payable .
Universal Credit is a payment that is made to help those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of work , with living costs .
It is paid in monthly installments , or twice a month for some people in Scotland .
Anyone who previously received any of these benefits does not need to do anything to move across to Universal Credit , unless your circumstances have changed , or you are contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) .
You can not claim Universal Credit if you receive , or are entitled to , the severe disability premium .
How much will Universal Credit increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 1.7 per cent on 6 April 2020 , marking the first time they have increased since 2015 .
Single Universal Credit claimants aged under 25 will see payments go up from £251.77 per month to £342.74 .
Joint claimants who are both under 25 will get an increase from £395.20 per month to £488.59 , while those over 25 will see a rise from £498.89 per month to £594.04 .
Who is eligible for Universal Credit ?
To be eligible to claim Universal Credit , you need to meet one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you The number of children you have does not affect your eligibility for Universal Credit , but it may affect how much you get .
If you live with your partner , their income and savings will be taken into account - even if they are not eligible for Universal Credit .

People who receive Universal Credit will have seen a boost to their payments from 6 April, with the benefit given a 1.7 per cent rise.
The increase will see around 2.5 million households better off following a five year freeze on the amount payable.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a payment that is made to help those who are on a low income, or out of work, with living costs.
It is paid in monthly installments, or twice a month for some people in Scotland.
The payment replaces Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Working Tax Credit.
Anyone who previously received any of these benefits does not need to do anything to move across to Universal Credit, unless your circumstances have changed, or you are contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
You cannot claim Universal Credit if you receive, or are entitled to, the severe disability premium.
How much will Universal Credit increase?
All working age benefits payments rose by 1.7 per cent on 6 April 2020, marking the first time they have increased since 2015.
For 12 months, the government is increasing Universal Credit payments by £1,000, amounting to around £80 extra per month.
This increase will apply to all new and existing claimants.
Single Universal Credit claimants aged under 25 will see payments go up from £251.77 per month to £342.74.
Single claimants aged over 25 will see a rise from £317.82 per month to £409.89.
Joint claimants who are both under 25 will get an increase from £395.20 per month to £488.59, while those over 25 will see a rise from £498.89 per month to £594.04.
Who is eligible for Universal Credit?
To be eligible to claim Universal Credit, you need to meet one of the following criteria:
– you’re on a low income or unemployed
– you’re 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you’re 16 to 17)
– you’re under State Pension age (or your partner is)
– you and your partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you
– you live in the UK
The number of children you have does not affect your eligibility for Universal Credit, but it may affect how much you get.
If you live with your partner, their income and savings will be taken into account – even if they are not eligible for Universal Credit.
To check your eligibility for Universal Credit, visit gov.uk.
How to claim
To apply for Universal Credit, you will need to complete an application form online.
To do this, you will require:
– your bank, building society or credit union account details (call the Universal Credit helpline if you
– do not have one on 0800 328 5644)
– an email address
– information about your housing, such as how much rent you pay
– details of your income, such as payslips
– details of savings and any investments, like shares or a property that you rent out
– details of how much you pay for childcare if you’re applying for help with childcare costs
You will also have to verify your identity online, either via a driving licence, passport, or a debit or credit card.
If you and your partner live together, you will have to apply as a couple, even if you are not married.


inews--2020-04-20--Which 3D animals are on Google? Full list, from lions and tigers to sharks and pandas

Which 3D animals are on Google ?
Full list , from lions and tigers to sharks and pandas Last year , Google introduced a new way for people to interact with their favourite animals online , thanks to augmented reality With technology always evolving , the way we learn is changing too - like using augmented reality to learn about animals .
For parents with children staying indoors , this provides a fun new way to learn about their favourite animals .
How do I view 3D animals on Google ?
To use the feature , you ’ ll need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : ‘ giant panda ’ .
Just underneath the image search results and the Wikipedia description of the panda , you ’ ll be able to see a little box that says , “ Meet a life-sized giant panda up close ” .
Click the ‘ view in 3D ’ button , then click ‘ view in your space ’ to see the panda in your own surroundings .
You ’ ll need to give Google access to your camera for it to be able to insert the panda into your space .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are loads of different animals you can see through the feature .
It first gained popularity when people realised they could see a huge 3D panda when they googled the animal - but there ’ s a huge list of animals the feature works for .
But the list is endless - you and your kids could discover many more animals to learn about .
What does AR enabled mean ?
In order to access this feature , your device will need to be AR enabled .
For Android users , Google requires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later , originally shipped with the Google Play store already installed , and internet access .
For iPhone users , you need to be running iOS 11.0 or later .
You ’ ll likely already be running iOS 11.0 or later , but if you ’ re not sure , simply head to your settings > general and then tap software update .

With technology always evolving, the way we learn is changing too – like using augmented reality to learn about animals.
For parents with children staying indoors, this provides a fun new way to learn about their favourite animals.
How do I view 3D animals on Google?
To use the feature, you’ll need to google an animal, for example: ‘giant panda’.
Just underneath the image search results and the Wikipedia description of the panda, you’ll be able to see a little box that says, “Meet a life-sized giant panda up close”.
Click the ‘view in 3D’ button, then click ‘view in your space’ to see the panda in your own surroundings.
You’ll need to give Google access to your camera for it to be able to insert the panda into your space.
What animals can you find?
There are loads of different animals you can see through the feature.
It first gained popularity when people realised they could see a huge 3D panda when they googled the animal – but there’s a huge list of animals the feature works for.
You can also find a:
Lion
Tiger
Cheetah
Shark
Hedgehog
Duck
Emperor penguin
Wolf
Angler fish
Goat
Rottweiler
Snakes
Eagle
Brown bear
Alligator
Horse
Shetland pony
Macaw
Pug
Turtle
Cat
Octopus
Dog
But the list is endless – you and your kids could discover many more animals to learn about.
What does AR enabled mean?
In order to access this feature, your device will need to be AR enabled.
For Android users, Google requires an operating system of Android 7.0 or later, originally shipped with the Google Play store already installed, and internet access.
For iPhone users, you need to be running iOS 11.0 or later. You’ll likely already be running iOS 11.0 or later, but if you’re not sure, simply head to your settings > general and then tap software update.
If there is a software update available, hit download and install.


inews--2020-04-20--2.6 challenge ideas: how to join in as London Marathon and other events aim to raise £4bn for charit

2.6 challenge ideas: how to join in as London Marathon and other events aim to raise £4bn for charities

2.6 challenge ideas : how to join in as London Marathon and other events aim to raise £4bn for charities '' The 2.6 Challenge is a simple way for people of all ages and abilities to help save the UK ’ s charities on Sunday 26 April '' A new charity challenge aimed to pick up the slack from cancelled events like the London Marathon is set to begin in a little over a week .
`` The 2.6 Challenge is a simple way for people of all ages and abilities to help save the UK ’ s charities on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event 's organisers .
`` Your challenge could be as simple as pledging to run 2.6 miles as your daily exercise to doing 26 minutes of juggling non-stop . ''
What is the 2.6 Challenge ?
That includes the cancellation of thousands of sporting events , many of which would have seen public participation in an effort to raise funds for charities of their choosing .
That means that charitable sectors are going to take a significant hit in the wake of the virus ; the UK charity sector estimates it will lose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the pandemic .
`` The Covid-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic effect with the cancellation of thousands of events and the loss of billions in income through fundraising events , '' say the organisers behind the 2.6 Challenge .
Many of these charities have had to reduce or stop services at a time when vulnerable members of society need them most ; thousands of staff have been placed on furlough and many charities will not survive the next few months .
The 2.6 Challenge is a way for people to still raise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begins on Sunday 26 April , the day when the London Marathon should have taken place .
The London Marathon is the world ’ s biggest one-day fundraising event , which raised more than £66.4 million for thousands of charities in 2019 ; without the 2.6 Challenge , none of that cash would have been raised for charities in 2020 .
How do I take part ?
From Sunday 26 April , the day on which the London Marathon was due to have taken place , join the rest of the UK for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Challenge can be any activity you like , '' say the organisers , `` from running 2.6 miles to holding an online workout with 26 of your friends . ''
More ideas on what you could do as part of the 2.6 Challenge can be found on the event 's official website .
`` Whatever your age or ability , you can take part .
After all , we ’ re not looking for superheroes .
We ’ re looking for Home Heroes . ''
Once you 're settled on what you want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , head to the website for more information on how to support your chosen charity .
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways .
It is caused by a virus called coronavirus , and started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 .
The NHS states that the major symptoms are a high temperature ( feeling hot to the touch on your chest or back ) and a new , continuous cough ( either coughing a lot for over an hour , or having three or more coughing episodes @ @ @ @ @

A new charity challenge aimed to pick up the slack from cancelled events like the London Marathon is underway.
“The 2.6 Challenge is a simple way for people of all ages and abilities to help save the UK’s charities on Sunday 26 April,” say the event’s organisers.
“Your challenge could be as simple as pledging to run 2.6 miles as your daily exercise to doing 26 minutes of juggling non-stop.”
Here’s everything you need to know about it
What is the 2.6 Challenge?
The coronavirus has taken its toll on just about every aspect of everyday life.
That includes the cancellation of thousands of sporting events, many of which would have seen public participation in an effort to raise funds for charities of their choosing.
That means that charitable sectors are going to take a significant hit in the wake of the virus; the UK charity sector estimates it will lose £4 billion in income as a result of the pandemic.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic effect with the cancellation of thousands of events and the loss of billions in income through fundraising events,” say the organisers behind the 2.6 Challenge.
Many of these charities have had to reduce or stop services at a time when vulnerable members of society need them most; thousands of staff have been placed on furlough and many charities will not survive the next few months.
The 2.6 Challenge is a way for people to still raise valuable funds for charitable causes, and began on Sunday 26 April, the day when the London Marathon should have taken place.
The London Marathon is the world’s biggest one-day fundraising event, which raised more than £66.4 million for thousands of charities in 2019; without the 2.6 Challenge, none of that cash would have been raised for charities in 2020.
How do I take part?
“The 2.6 Challenge can be any activity you like,” say the organisers, “from running 2.6 miles to holding an online workout with 26 of your friends.”
More ideas on what you could do as part of the 2.6 Challenge can be found on the event’s official website.
“Whatever your age or ability, you can take part. After all, we’re not looking for superheroes. We’re looking for Home Heroes.”
Once you’re settled on what you want to do for your own 2.6 Challenge, head to the website for more information on how to support your chosen charity.
Coronavirus: the facts
What is coronavirus?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus, and started in Wuhan in China in December 2019.
What are the symptoms?
The NHS states that the major symptoms are a high temperature (feeling hot to the touch on your chest or back) and a new, continuous cough (either coughing a lot for over an hour, or having three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours).
There have also been reports of the illness causing flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat.
It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.
What is the latest government advice?
The government’s guidance is clear – stay at home:
Only go outside for food, health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home)
If you go out, stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people at all times
Wash your hands as soon as you get home
Do not meet others, even friends or family. You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms.
What should I do if I feel unwell?
The NHS advises not to leave your home, but instead to use the NHS 111 online service, which can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.


inews--2020-04-20--Where was Too Hot to Handle filmed? Villa location in Mexico for Netflix dating series

Where was Too Hot to Handle filmed ?
Villa location in Mexico for Netflix dating series Ten singletons have been jetted off to a luxury paradise with the aim of finding love and winning $ 100,000 - but there 's a catch The Too Hot to Handle cast ( Photo : Netflix ) Too Hot to Handle is Netflix 's latest dip into the reality dating show ocean - and it 's already getting everyone excited .
Much like Love Island it sends 12 singletons in search of love off to paradise , with the winning couple taking home a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's no touching allowed , and any sexual activity of any kind results in the $ 100,000 jackpot being reduced .
This is to encourage the contestants to forge meaningful connections with each other , but early signs suggest they do n't exactly find it easy to keep their hands to themselves .
`` Ten young , hot singles from around the world come together in a tropical paradise for what they think will be the most exotic and erotic summer of their lives - but there ’ s a twist .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will have to give up all hanky panky for the entire retreat if they want to win the $ 100,000 grand prize .
No kissing , no heavy petting , and no self-gratification of any kind .
On Too Hot to Handle , all heavy petting is banned by a talking air freshener called Lana ( Photo : Netflix )

Too Hot to Handle is Netflix‘s latest dip into the reality dating show ocean – and it’s already getting everyone excited.
Much like Love Island it sends 12 singletons in search of love off to paradise, with the winning couple taking home a cash prize.
The catch? There’s no touching allowed, and any sexual activity of any kind results in the $100,000 jackpot being reduced.
This is to encourage the contestants to forge meaningful connections with each other, but early signs suggest they don’t exactly find it easy to keep their hands to themselves.
‘Luxury no-bone zone’
“Ten young, hot singles from around the world come together in a tropical paradise for what they think will be the most exotic and erotic summer of their lives – but there’s a twist.
“These commitment-phobes who love a casual hook-up will have to give up all hanky panky for the entire retreat if they want to win the $100,000 grand prize. No kissing, no heavy petting, and no self-gratification of any kind.


inews--2020-04-20--Too Hot to Handle cast: full line-up of contestants for the Netflix dating series, and how the 'new

Too Hot to Handle cast: full line-up of contestants for the Netflix dating series, and how the 'new Love Island' works

Too Hot to Handle cast : full line-up of contestants for the Netflix dating series , and how the 'new Love Island ' works Netflix 's latest dating reality show is their answer to Love Island .
The only catch ?
No touching Here 's how Netflix describes it : `` Ten young , hot singles from around the world come together in a tropical paradise for what they think will be the most exotic and erotic summer of their lives - but there ’ s a twist .
`` These commitment-phobes who love a casual hook-up will have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entire retreat if they want to win the $ 100,000 grand prize .
No kissing , no heavy petting , and no self-gratification of any kind .
`` With every slip , the prize money goes down .
In this luxury no-bone zone , will the serial singletons be able to form deeper emotional connections ?
Or will the temptation simply be too hot to handle ? ''
Chloe is a `` loveable and mischievous '' Essex girl and a self-confessed heartbreaker .
She says she is `` aware of her sexual power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but always ends up choosing the wrong one .
She was once asked to be in a girl band in South Korea and once fell so in love with someone in two weeks she got a tattoo of the date they met on her collarbone .
done in an `` unknown language '' - to this day she still doesn ’ t know what it says .
She says she is fully open when it comes to her sex life and is open to building romantic connections with both the boys and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ influencer from Canada who once dated the DJ Diplo .
She describes herself as a free spirit , thrill-seeker and rule breaker , and is a true `` commitment-phone '' - despite having an ex 's name tattooed on the inside of her mouth .
Rhonda , from Atlanta , says she loves the chase but is bored of dating and now wants to find a meaningful connection .
If she likes someone she says she does n't let anyone get in her way .
Nicole is an Irish marketing consultant who lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working on yachts in Chicago , hosting the likes of Kanye West , Justin Bieber and Jay Z .
She puts on a cool facade but is n't afraid to speak her mind .
She says she can be selfish and jealous , and is n't afraid to go after a guy another girl is interested in .
David is a semi-pro rugby player and motorbike enthusiast from London who also has a first-class degree in Engineering under his belt .
His ex-girlfriend is currently engaged to Hugh Hefner 's son .
Sharron @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who also works as a professional kids ' wrestling coach - occasionally hitting on their mums from the sidelines .
He calls himself a 10/10 and was crowned My Pennsylvania in 2018 .
Matthew , from Colorado , has been in the running for America 's Next Top Model , but is worried that if he does n't change his way with women he will be left with his dog as his only companion .
He describes himself as a deep thinker with a spiritual outlook and has several life mottos , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everywhere I go '' .
Born in Austria and the oldest of eight children , Kelz moved to the UK as a 13-year-old and now works as a senior recruitment consultant in London .
He describes himself as an alpha male who is used to getting what he wants , and plays for the London Warriors American football team .

Earlier this year Netflix well and truly made a splash in the reality dating show world, with the impossibly addictive Love is Blind.
And now the streaming service is back with another outlandish idea, which appears to be its answer to Love Island.
Too Hot to Handle dropped on Friday 17 April, and challenges young singletons to spend the summer together, forging connections in an exotic paradise – so far, so simple.
The catch? They’re not allowed to touch each other.
Here’s how Netflix describes it: “Ten young, hot singles from around the world come together in a tropical paradise for what they think will be the most exotic and erotic summer of their lives – but there’s a twist.
“These commitment-phobes who love a casual hook-up will have to give up all hanky panky for the entire retreat if they want to win the $100,000 grand prize. No kissing, no heavy petting, and no self-gratification of any kind.
“With every slip, the prize money goes down. In this luxury no-bone zone, will the serial singletons be able to form deeper emotional connections? Or will the temptation simply be too hot to handle?”
Here are the contestants…
Chloe Veitch
Chloe is a “loveable and mischievous” Essex girl and a self-confessed heartbreaker. She says she is “aware of her sexual power” and knows how to seduce boys, but always ends up choosing the wrong one. She was once asked to be in a girl band in South Korea and once fell so in love with someone in two weeks she got a tattoo of the date they met on her collarbone.
Haley Cureton
Haley is a business student from Florida, who volunteers at an animal shelter and once got a tattoo
done in an “unknown language” – to this day she still doesn’t know what it says. She says she is fully open when it comes to her sex life and is open to building romantic connections with both the boys and the girls.
Francesca Farago
Francesca is a travel influencer from Canada who once dated the DJ Diplo. She describes herself as a free spirit, thrill-seeker and rule breaker, and is a true “commitment-phone” – despite having an ex’s name tattooed on the inside of her mouth.
Rhonda Paul
Rhonda, from Atlanta, says she loves the chase but is bored of dating and now wants to find a meaningful connection. If she likes someone she says she doesn’t let anyone get in her way.
Nicole O’Brien
Nicole is an Irish marketing consultant who lives in London. She spent two years working on yachts in Chicago, hosting the likes of Kanye West, Justin Bieber and Jay Z. She puts on a cool facade but isn’t afraid to speak her mind. She says she can be selfish and jealous, and isn’t afraid to go after a guy another girl is interested in.
David Birtwhistle
David is a semi-pro rugby player and motorbike enthusiast from London who also has a first-class degree in Engineering under his belt. His ex-girlfriend is currently engaged to Hugh Hefner’s son.
Sharron Townsend
Sharron is a personal trainer from New Jersey who also works as a professional kids’ wrestling coach – occasionally hitting on their mums from the sidelines. He calls himself a 10/10 and was crowned My Pennsylvania in 2018.
Harry Jowsey
Australian Harry describes himself as a “giraffe on ice” on the dance floor, but turns into a “disco queen” after a couple drinks. He considers himself a bit of a cheeky chappy and the joker in the pack.
Matthew Smith
Matthew, from Colorado, has been in the running for America’s Next Top Model, but is worried that if he doesn’t change his way with women he will be left with his dog as his only companion. He describes himself as a deep thinker with a spiritual outlook and has several life mottos, including “I skinny dip in any sea everywhere I go”.
Kelz Dyke
Born in Austria and the oldest of eight children, Kelz moved to the UK as a 13-year-old and now works as a senior recruitment consultant in London. He describes himself as an alpha male who is used to getting what he wants, and plays for the London Warriors American football team.


inews--2020-04-20--Oak National Academy: how to access the online school lessons for home learning during the coronavir

Oak National Academy: how to access the online school lessons for home learning during the coronavirus lockdown

Oak National Academy : how to access the online school lessons for home learning during the coronavirus lockdown The Academy provides access to 180 video lessons per week across a broad range of subjects , including maths , art and languages With schools across the UK still closed to all pupils , except those of key workers and vulnerable children , many households are having to juggle homeschooling with full-time work .
While a date for when schools may reopen is not yet able to be confirmed , the government has announced a new package to support online learning .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ The new enterprise has been created by 40 teachers from some of the leading schools across England and is funded by the Department of Education .
Each lesson lasts for one hour and the portal will provide the equivalent of three hours of lessons per day for primary students , and four hours per day for secondary .
What resources will children be given ?
To facilitate access to the new online learning portal , disadvantaged children across England are to be given laptops and tablets as part of a push to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are staying at home during the lockdown .
Devices will be ordered for children who are in the most vital stages of their education , those who receive support from a social worker , and care leavers .
Schools and colleges will be able to keep their laptops and tablets once they have reopened , helping children to continue learning even after the lockdown is lifted .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson announced the news at the government ’ s daily press conference on Sunday ( 19 Apr ) , stating : “ Schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes , which is why we need to support the incredible work teachers are already doing to ensure children continue to receive the education they deserve and need .
“ By providing young people with these laptops and tablets and enabling schools to access high quality support , we will enable all children to continue learning now and in the years to come .
How do I access the Oak National Academy ?
To access the resources on Oak National Academy , simply visit the official website where online resources are now available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tools are there ?
Oak National Academy joins a broad range of resources and support that are available for both schools and parents , which have been outlined on the government website .
Joe Wicks , also known as The Body Coach , launched a series of 30 minute fitness videos for children to do at home , called PE with Joe , in a bid to keep youngsters moving , while British Astronaut Tim Peake has launched a series of free learning resources for parents and children .

The UK could be hotter than California next week, with temperatures climbing above 30ºC after weeks of rain and strong winds across the country.
A burst of tropical air caused by high pressure will arrive mid-week, meaning that the South East could reach 32°C on Friday – notably higher than the 26°C forecast for Los Angeles.
The Met has said that Brits are unlikely to see warmer conditions until Friday, however, with downpours continuing from Sunday evening until Monday.
Parts of North Wales could see up to two inches of rain on Monday- the equivalent of about half a month’s average rainfall- which will likely lead to a weather warning for the area.
“We are looking at the possibility of reaching the low 30s later in the week, most likely on Friday, probably in and around London, running into East Anglia and other parts of the South and East,” Met forecaster Dan Stroud said.
“We’ve got low pressure dominating at the moment, which will eventually give way to another area of heavy rain and cloud which will move up from the South and West into Monday, which will be a miserable and wet day across England and Wales.”
Mr Stroud added that the rain will die down on Tuesday and Wednesday, before soaring to the late 20s and 30ºC towards the end of the week.
Most of England and Wales is set to surpass 25°C on Friday, while Scotland and Northern Ireland will hover in the low and mid-20s.
While there’ll be plenty of dry and sunny spells, the Met Office warned that it can’t rule out the chance of outbreaks of rain and thunderstorms.
Sunday is expected to bring in a mix of sunshine and showers. The North and North West will see the worst of the wet weather, while scattered rain will hit the South. Conditions will stay mild, with most parts of the country sitting between 20 and 23°C.
The latest forecast won’t affect the overall outlook for August overall. Mr Stroud said the low pressure will sweep back in, making the following weekend far more unsettled.
The Met’s long-range forecast said there was “low confidence” in an extended period of warm weather. Late August and September will see “changeable” conditions of patchy rain and cloud, with temperatures likely to “trend downward.”
The Met has already ruled out the possibility of a heatwave, as the sizzling conditions sweeping through Europe, which has seen record-breaking temperatures of over 40°C, are highly unlikely to move over to the UK.


inews--2020-04-20--Can I drive somewhere to walk my dog or exercise? UK coronavirus lockdown rules on driving, explaine

Can I drive somewhere to walk my dog or exercise? UK coronavirus lockdown rules on driving, explained

Can I drive somewhere to walk my dog or exercise ?
UK coronavirus lockdown rules on driving , explained With social distancing measures tightened up and life under lockdown continuing , some people have questions about what they can still do Under government guidance , people are allowed to go out once daily for exercise - but does this include driving to a beauty spot or park to run or walk your dog ?
Can I drive to take my dog on a walk ?
The current rules being enforced by the lockdown states that there are only four reasons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Government has clarified that only essential travel should be undertaken , and that daily exercise should occur locally and close to home .
`` Stay local and use open spaces near to your home where possible – do not travel unnecessarily , '' the guidance states .
As lockdown rules continue to be enforced , The National Police Chiefs ’ Council ( NPCC ) has issued guidance for people about what they can and can not do when leaving their homes .
The current rules being enforced by the lockdown states that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be leaving your home : What you ’ re not allowed to do is drive for a prolonged period of time for only a brief amount of exercise , or take a short walk to something like a park bench where you sit for a long period .
Given current circumstances , you probably should not be driving to a separate location to exercise or walk your dog , but in some cases it is permitted .
In the list released by the government , it stated : “ Parks will remain open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ once a day .
The National Trust also announced that they are closing all of their gardens and parks as well due to the spread of coronavirus .
Their statement said : “ We have now closed all of our gated gardens and parks as well as our houses , cafes and shops to help restrict the spread of the coronavirus , and by the end of Tuesday 24 March , we will close all our car parks .
“ We believe it is important that people do not travel , and instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures .
”

Under government guidance, people are now allowed to go outside for more than their once daily exercise – in fact, outdoor exercise is now no longer limited. But does this include driving to a beauty spot or park to run or walk your dog?
Here’s what you should know.
Can I drive to take my dog on a walk?
Current rules being enforced by the lockdown states that there are only four reasons you should be leaving your home:
Daily exercise (which includes walking your dog)
Shopping for essentials
Travelling to and from work
To fulfil medical needs
The UK Government has now updated the daily exercise allowance, from one form of daily exercise a day to an unlimited amount of exercise each day.
This will be permitted from Wednesday 13 May, and social distancing measures will still need to be followed.
Boris Johnson said: “From this Wednesday, we want to encourage people to take more and even unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise.”
Driving to other destinations to do this exercise, which includes dog walking, is also allowed.
“You can sit in the sun in your local park, you can drive to other destinations, you can even play sports but only with members of your own household,” Johnson explained.
Are parks closed?
In the list released by the government, it stated: “Parks will remain open only for individuals and households to exercise.
“Communal spaces within parks such as playgrounds and football pitches will be closed.”
The National Trust also announced that they are closing all of their gardens and parks as well due to the spread of coronavirus.
Their statement said: “We have now closed all of our gated gardens and parks as well as our houses, cafes and shops to help restrict the spread of the coronavirus, and by the end of Tuesday 24 March, we will close all our car parks.
“We believe it is important that people do not travel, and instead stay at home and observe social distancing measures.”


inews--2020-04-20--BBC Bitesize Daily schedule: how the watch the school lessons, the topics covered and all the famous

BBC Bitesize Daily schedule: how the watch the school lessons, the topics covered and all the famous teachers involved

BBC Bitesize Daily schedule : how the watch the school lessons , the topics covered and all the famous teachers involved With lockdown rules still in place across the UK , the majority of children have seen disruption to their usual educational schedule What you need to know about the new service to keep kids learning at home ( Photo : Shutterstock ) Help is at hand for parents and teachers alike , as the BBC launches its new home learning tool , Bitesize Daily .
The home learning tool was created in collaboration with 200 teachers , and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The virtual learning platform aims to teach the nation ’ s children using the UK ’ s national curriculums .
Here ’ s everything you need to know - and how to access the lessons .
Available from 20 April , lessons are available for children in Year 1/P2 up to Year 10/S4 .
Collaborating with teachers and education specialists , the programme will feature a host of familiar faces who will deliver lessons on their specialist subjects to kids .
The comprehensive package is aimed at minimising disruption to children ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in these challenging times .
Who are the teachers ?
Each week day from 9am , six 20-minute-long programmes will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC Red Button , targeting six age groups , from five to 14 .
These programmes will feature teachers , experts and famous faces covering topics about what that age group is learning that day.In week one students will meet ; Mr Burton ( Educating Yorkshire ) , Ms Webb ( Primary ) , Mr Brown ( Secondary ) , Ms Armit ( Secondary ) , Mr Mycock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Britain ’ s Got Talent fame .
A host of familiar faces are also signed up to keep students motivated and on track with inspirational messages of support and tips on how to stay focused .
Weekly schedules will be shared with teachers on BBC Teach , BBC Bitesize , on social media and via the BBC ’ s Bitesize newsletter , at least a week in advance .
On the BBC ’ s Bitesize Daily website , select which age range of lessons you ’ d like to look at .
Simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll be taken to the hub with those lessons in it .
For example , if you select Year 10/S4 lessons , you ’ ll see lessons in subjects such as English , maths , history , geography and more from Monday 20 April to Friday 24 April .
Click on a lesson and you ’ ll be taken to a new page which lays out the objective of the lesson and features videos , animations , practice activities , quizzes and games to get kids learning .
Alice Webb , Director BBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ We ’ re proud that the BBC can bring together so many people to offer such a wide-ranging package of support to help children and parents right across the UK at such a challenging time .
“ We said the BBC would be there for people through this crisis , and we meant it .
It ’ vital that every child is able to continue learning - and the lessons we ’ re putting on will make sure they have fun at the same time .
”

Help is at hand for parents and teachers alike, as the BBC launches its new home learning tool, Bitesize Daily.
The home learning tool was created in collaboration with 200 teachers, and it features a whole host of famous faces. The virtual learning platform aims to teach the nation’s children using the UK’s national curriculums.
Here’s everything you need to know – and how to access the lessons.
What is BBC Bitesize Daily?
BBC Bitesize Daily is a new home learning tool that offers 14 weeks of curriculum-based learning for kids across the UK.
Available from 20 April, lessons are available for children in Year 1/P2 up to Year 10/S4.
Replicating the school day, the programme gives parents “lessons” tailored to each of the country’s national curriculums.
Collaborating with teachers and education specialists, the programme will feature a host of familiar faces who will deliver lessons on their specialist subjects to kids.
The comprehensive package is aimed at minimising disruption to children’s education and providing rhythm and routine in these challenging times.
Who are the teachers?
Each week day from 9am, six 20-minute-long programmes will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC Red Button, targeting six age groups, from five to 14.
These programmes will feature teachers, experts and famous faces covering topics about what that age group is learning that day.
In week one students will meet; Mr Burton (Educating Yorkshire), Ms Webb (Primary), Mr Brown (Secondary), Ms Armit (Secondary), Mr Mycock (Secondary) and Mr McPartlin of Britain’s Got Talent fame.
A host of familiar faces are also signed up to keep students motivated and on track with inspirational messages of support and tips on how to stay focused.
Some celebrities appearing include:
Sir David Attenborough, teaching kids about oceans, the environment and animals
Professor Brian Cox, renowned physicist, teaching science lessons like explaining the solar system and gravity
Manchester City footballer Sergio Aguero teaching Spanish
Ed Balls, former MP, teaching maths
Eastenders actor Danny Dyer delivering a lesson on Henry VII, with some help from Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker
Musicians Liam Payne, Mable and more will be taking on a week long Musical Big Read – an extension to a weekly Book Club that will run throughout the 14-week term and see stars including Anita Rani and Oti Mabuse read books aimed at both primary and secondary aged kids.
What’s the BBC Bitesize Daily schedule?
Weekly schedules will be shared with teachers on BBC Teach, BBC Bitesize, on social media and via the BBC’s Bitesize newsletter, at least a week in advance.
To sign up for the newsletter go to the website here.
How do I access BBC Bitesize Daily?
On the BBC’s Bitesize Daily website, select which age range of lessons you’d like to look at.
Simply click your preferred class and you’ll be taken to the hub with those lessons in it.
For example, if you select Year 10/S4 lessons, you’ll see lessons in subjects such as English, maths, history, geography and more from Monday 20 April to Friday 24 April.
Click on a lesson and you’ll be taken to a new page which lays out the objective of the lesson and features videos, animations, practice activities, quizzes and games to get kids learning.
Each weekday there will be brand new lessons featured.
Alice Webb, Director BBC Children’s & Education, said: “We’re proud that the BBC can bring together so many people to offer such a wide-ranging package of support to help children and parents right across the UK at such a challenging time.
“We said the BBC would be there for people through this crisis, and we meant it. It’ vital that every child is able to continue learning – and the lessons we’re putting on will make sure they have fun at the same time.”


inews--2020-04-20--Lyrid meteor shower 2020: how to watch the Lyrids from the UK tonight, and when the meteors peak

Lyrid meteor shower 2020 : how to watch the Lyrids from the UK tonight , and when the meteors peak The ancient Chinese are said to have watched Lyrid meteors falling 'like rain ' in the year 687 BC The shower is not one of the year ’ s most spectacular , but can still provide those looking skyward with upwards of 20 shooting stars per hour .
What are the Lyrids ?
The Lyrids are one of the oldest known meteor showers , with records dating back 2,700 years .
The ancient Chinese are said to have watched Lyrid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the year 687 BC .
This happens roughly every 60 years , and while it wo n't be the case in 2020 , observers could still be treated to some ‘ Lyrid fireballs ’ - brighter meteors that can even cast shadows for a split second and leave behind a trail of glowing ionized gas .
How to see them Weather plays a big part , and with April skies often clouded over , spotting the meteors might be easier said than done , and those living in an area with minimal light @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fireball .
Those living in built-up areas would normally be advised to travel to less populated spaces if they really want to see the shower , but as the coronavirus pandemic rolls on and social distancing measures remain in place , this is not something anybody can justifiably do this year .
If you 're able to venture out into your garden to spot the show , wrapping up in warm clothes is recommended , and you should allow up to 20 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advantage to stargazers this year , with the peak of the shower lining up with a new moon , meaning minimal light pollution from our planet 's only natural satellite .
When to see them The Lyrid meteor shower takes place between 16 and 25 April , but will peak - be at their most dramatic - on the evening of 22 April .
The Lyrids are so called because they appear to radiate from the constellation of Lyra , and the shower will be at its most active once this `` radiant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10pm in the north-east of the sky .
However , looking directly at it may cause you to miss the more spectacular meteors , and Lyrids can actually show up in any part of the sky .
How ‘ spectacular ’ will it be ?
Relative to other meteor showers on the astronomical calendar , the Lyrids are one of the less dramatic displays , but they can still offer up an average of 20 meteors per hour .

Stargazers in April are in for a treat when the Lyrids meteor shower rolls into Earth’s skies for its annual display.
The shower is not one of the year’s most spectacular, but can still provide those looking skyward with upwards of 20 shooting stars per hour.
Here’s everything you need to know about it:
What are the Lyrids?
The Lyrids are one of the oldest known meteor showers, with records dating back 2,700 years. The ancient Chinese are said to have watched Lyrid meteors falling “like rain” in the year 687 BC.
The Lyrids are caused by the interaction of the Earth’s atmosphere with the dust trail left by the Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher.
When particles of debris enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up, producing a trail of light across the sky.
Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher only orbits the sun every 415 years, but occasionally, specific planetary arrangements can steer the dust trail into Earth’s path, intensifying the shower.
This happens roughly every 60 years, and while it won’t be the case in 2020, observers could still be treated to some ‘Lyrid fireballs’ – brighter meteors that can even cast shadows for a split second and leave behind a trail of glowing ionized gas.
How to see them
The Lyrids should be visible with the naked eye, dependent on a couple of factors.
Weather plays a big part, and with April skies often clouded over, spotting the meteors might be easier said than done, and those living in an area with minimal light pollution will have increased chances of spotting a fireball.
Those living in built-up areas would normally be advised to travel to less populated spaces if they really want to see the shower, but as the coronavirus pandemic rolls on and social distancing measures remain in place, this is not something anybody can justifiably do this year.
If you’re able to venture out into your garden to spot the show, wrapping up in warm clothes is recommended, and you should allow up to 20 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the night sky.
There will be an added advantage to stargazers this year, with the peak of the shower lining up with a new moon, meaning minimal light pollution from our planet’s only natural satellite.
When to see them
The Lyrid meteor shower takes place between 16 and 25 April, but peaked – the moment when they were at their most dramatic – on the evening of 22 April.
The Lyrids are so called because they appear to radiate from the constellation of Lyra, and the shower will be at its most active once this “radiant” has risen – around 9 to 10pm in the north-east of the sky.
However, looking directly at it may cause you to miss the more spectacular meteors, and Lyrids can actually show up in any part of the sky.
How ‘spectacular’ will it be?
Relative to other meteor showers on the astronomical calendar, the Lyrids are one of the less dramatic displays, but they can still offer up an average of 20 meteors per hour.
That’s nothing compared to the shower of 1803, which delivered 700 meteors an hour. That’s about one every five seconds, and the shower has been known to have dramatic outbursts.
No such outburst is predicted for 2020, but it is a hard thing to pinpoint, so you never know.