inews--2020-04-15--Captain Tom Moore becomes Just Giving's biggest-ever fundraiser as he raises £10m for NHS

Captain Tom Moore becomes Just Giving 's biggest-ever fundraiser as he raises £10m for NHS A 99-year-old veteran who is raising funds for the NHS by walking 100 lengths of his garden has become the biggest individual fundraiser ever , the website JustGiving has said .
Mr Moore , who lives with his family in Bedfordshire , hoped to raise £1,000 for the NHS by walking 25 metre laps of his garden .
By Wednesday night a total of more than £10 million had been donated by hundreds of thousands of supporters .
The figure beats that of Stephen Sutton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activist , known for his fundraising efforts for the Teenage Cancer Trust .
Mr Sutton , who died in 2014 , raised more than £5 million by the second anniversary of his death and was posthumously honoured by the Queen .
The late teen 's mum , Jane , said : `` I wanted to be one of the first to send my congratulations to Captain Tom Moore . ''
She added : `` My understanding is that Stephen ’ s total , until today , was the highest total raised by an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now passed to Captain Tom and could not have gone to a more worthy individual . ''
'They deserve every penny of it' On Wednesday morning Mr Moore told the BBC : “ Completely out of this world !
Thank you so much to all you people who subscribe to the National Health Service because , for every penny that we get , they deserve every one of it.
” His daughter , Hannah Ingram-Moore , said : “ He ’ s embraced this adventure as the next stage of his life .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about purpose and , whilst he ’ s had a life full of purpose , he did fall and break his hip and became much less independent than he had been for the preceding 98 years .
And what you have done , everyone who ’ s supported him , is give him his next purpose.
” Money raised by Mr Moore and others for NHS Charities Together is being spent on wellbeing packs for NHS staff , rest and recuperation rooms , electronic devices to enable hospital patients to keep in contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups help discharged patients .

A 99-year-old veteran who is raising funds for the NHS by walking 100 lengths of his garden has become the biggest individual fundraiser ever, the website JustGiving has said.
Mr Moore, who lives with his family in Bedfordshire, hoped to raise £1,000 for the NHS by walking 25 metre laps of his garden.
By Thursday morning a total of more than £16 million had been donated by hundreds of thousands of supporters.
Record fundraising effort
The figure beats that of Stephen Sutton MBE, a teenage blogger and charity activist, known for his fundraising efforts for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Mr Sutton, who died in 2014, raised more than £5 million by the second anniversary of his death and was posthumously honoured by the Queen.
The late teen’s mum, Jane, said: “I wanted to be one of the first to send my congratulations to Captain Tom Moore.”
She added: “My understanding is that Stephen’s total, until today, was the highest total raised by an individual on JustGiving. That baton has now passed to Captain Tom and could not have gone to a more worthy individual.”
‘They deserve every penny of it’
On Wednesday morning Mr Moore told the BBC: “Completely out of this world! Thank you so much to all you people who subscribe to the National Health Service because, for every penny that we get, they deserve every one of it.”
His daughter, Hannah Ingram-Moore, said: “He’s embraced this adventure as the next stage of his life.
“I believe that life is all about purpose and, whilst he’s had a life full of purpose, he did fall and break his hip and became much less independent than he had been for the preceding 98 years. And what you have done, everyone who’s supported him, is give him his next purpose.”
Money raised by Mr Moore and others for NHS Charities Together is being spent on wellbeing packs for NHS staff, rest and recuperation rooms, electronic devices to enable hospital patients to keep in contact with loved ones and a support community groups help discharged patients.
Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tomswalkforthenhs


inews--2020-04-15--Coronavirus: UK-made short-term ventilators ‘no use whatsoever’ says ICU expert

Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine head says Government 's request at odds with requirements set out by medical experts last month The UK ’ s homegrown hospital ventilator programme risks failing to produce machines suitable for treating coronavirus patients , according to the head of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine .
Alison Pittard said the Government ’ s request for ventilators that would — at a minimum — stabilise patients “ for a few hours ” was at odds with the request from medical experts last month who wanted devices that would work for the duration of a Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Dr Pittard , who was among a group of medical experts who advised on minimum specifications for ventilators in early March , told the Financial Times : “ If we had been told that that was the case , that the ventilators were only to treat a patient for a few hours .
we ’ d have said : ‘ Don ’ t bother , you ’ re wasting your time .
That ’ s of no use whatsoever . ''
At the end of March ministers ordered 10,000 extra ventilators on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the NHS .
Some 1,850 extra have been acquired over the past month , but some experts said officials have prioritised the production of simplistic devices .
At the end of March ministers ordered 10,000 extra ventilators on top of the 8,000 that were already in the NHS ( Photo : JACK GUEZ/AFP/Getty ) Companies such as Dyson , JCB , Rolls-Royce and McLaren have said they were responding to the call from Boris Johnson last month for UK manufacturing to help supply more ventilators for the NHS .
However , each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of the projects have been stood down .
Last weekend the Cabinet Office confirmed it was cancelling plans for thousands of basic ventilators proposed by the BlueSky consortium , which include the Renault and Red Bull Formula One teams , because they were not suitable for treating Covid patients .
Meanwhile , a clinical trial will assess whether treating critically-ill Covid-19 patients earlier with non-invasive ventilation could cut the need to use invasive mechanical ventilators later on .
The joint trial , run by the University of Warwick and Queen 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK patients , will seek to find alternatives to ventilators .
Researchers will compare the effects of standard care , incubation and invasive ventilation , with non-invasive treatments like use of the continuous positive airway pressure ( CPAP ) method , with air delivered through a tight-fitting face mask .
It will also compare use of the high flow nasal oxygen ( HFNO ) system , which delivers warmed oxygen through tubes in the nose , and the standard care of air delivered via a mask .
It is hoped that by comparing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which are best at cutting the need for invasive treatment .

The UK’s homegrown hospital ventilator programme risks failing to produce machines suitable for treating coronavirus patients, according to the head of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine.
Alison Pittard said the Government’s request for ventilators that would — at a minimum — stabilise patients “for a few hours” was at odds with the request from medical experts last month who wanted devices that would work for the duration of a Covid-19 patient’s stay in intensive care.
Dr Pittard, who was among a group of medical experts who advised on minimum specifications for ventilators in early March, told the Financial Times: “If we had been told that that was the case, that the ventilators were only to treat a patient for a few hours. we’d have said: ‘Don’t bother, you’re wasting your time. That’s of no use whatsoever.”
At the end of March ministers ordered 10,000 extra ventilators on top of the 8,000 that were already in the NHS. Some 1,850 extra have been acquired over the past month, but some experts said officials have prioritised the production of simplistic devices.
Formula One
Companies such as Dyson, JCB, Rolls-Royce and McLaren have said they were responding to the call from Boris Johnson last month for UK manufacturing to help supply more ventilators for the NHS. However, each design has to pass regulatory tests and a number of the projects have been stood down.
Last weekend the Cabinet Office confirmed it was cancelling plans for thousands of basic ventilators proposed by the BlueSky consortium, which include the Renault and Red Bull Formula One teams, because they were not suitable for treating Covid patients.
Meanwhile, a clinical trial will assess whether treating critically-ill Covid-19 patients earlier with non-invasive ventilation could cut the need to use invasive mechanical ventilators later on. The joint trial, run by the University of Warwick and Queen’s University Belfast and involving up to 4,000 UK patients, will seek to find alternatives to ventilators.
Researchers will compare the effects of standard care, incubation and invasive ventilation, with non-invasive treatments like use of the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) method, with air delivered through a tight-fitting face mask.
It will also compare use of the high flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) system, which delivers warmed oxygen through tubes in the nose, and the standard care of air delivered via a mask. It is hoped that by comparing treatment pathways, clinicians can better understand which are best at cutting the need for invasive treatment.


inews--2020-04-16--Geraint Thomas NHS Zwift challenge: How to watch the fundrasier live, donate and ride along with the

Geraint Thomas NHS Zwift challenge: How to watch the fundrasier live, donate and ride along with the Tour de France champion

Geraint Thomas NHS Zwift challenge : How to watch the fundrasier live , donate and ride along with the Tour de France champion The Welshman is raising thousands for NHS Charities Together while undertaking three 12-hour rides on an indoor bike The 2018 Tour de France winner says he has been humbled by the `` hard work , bravery and professionalism '' shown by healthcare workers helping the country 's fight against coronavirus and is therefore embarking on a gruelling three-day event to raise money for the NHS .
“ I was chatting to [ my wife ] Sa to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our support for all the front line workers so I ’ m doing the only thing I know how to do and getting on my bike , '' Thomas said .
`` I know this is a hard time for everyone but I hope that people will be able to make even the smallest donation to a great cause .
And if people are keen to join , sign up and ride with me.
” How to watch , donate and ride along with Thomas Any wishing to ride along with him via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by signing up via their website .
Each day is being split into two-hour segments , as Zwift explain : `` Sign up to ride on any of the legs across three days with Geraint .
On occasion , you might see a special guest or two .
Sign up for any of the recurring events over the 12-hour period , at a time that ’ s convenient for you .
Expect a moderate-to-fast pace , depending on the time of day .
`` These are group rides for anyone who wants a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts .
Rides will be offered in 2-hour increments over the 12 hour period .
Pace your engine so you can go the distance .
The pace is set by Geraint .
He will not chase flyers to wait for slow riders .
All are welcome ! ''
Geraint Thomas rides past the Arc de Triomphe in Paris wearing the Yellow Jersey as he secures the 2018 edition of the Tour de France ( Getty Images ) Thomas ' aim was to raise £100,000 for the NHS Charities Together , a target he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenge .

Geraint Thomas has turned his focus indoors with professional cycling suspended because of coronavirus.
The 2018 Tour de France winner says he has been humbled by the “hard work, bravery and professionalism” shown by healthcare workers helping the country’s fight against coronavirus and is therefore embarking on a gruelling three-day event to raise money for the NHS.
His rides, using a Zwift indoor training bike, will mirror the 12-hour day a typical UK medic undertakes on one of their shifts.
“I was chatting to [my wife] Sa to see what we could do to show our support for all the front line workers so I’m doing the only thing I know how to do and getting on my bike,” Thomas said.
“I know this is a hard time for everyone but I hope that people will be able to make even the smallest donation to a great cause. And if people are keen to join, sign up and ride with me.”
How to watch, donate and ride along with Thomas
Thomas’ endeavours are being live-streamed on his Facebook page and he is raising money via GoFundMe.
Any wishing to ride along with him via Zwift’s virtual platform can do so by signing up via their website.
Shift times:
Wednesday 15 April: 7.30am-7.30pm
Thursday 16 April: 7.30am-7.30pm
Friday 17 April: 7.30am-7.30pm
Each day is being split into two-hour segments, as Zwift explain: “Sign up to ride on any of the legs across three days with Geraint. On occasion, you might see a special guest or two. Sign up for any of the recurring events over the 12-hour period, at a time that’s convenient for you. Expect a moderate-to-fast pace, depending on the time of day.
“These are group rides for anyone who wants a challenge and wants to support COVID-19 relief efforts. Rides will be offered in 2-hour increments over the 12 hour period. Pace your engine so you can go the distance. The pace is set by Geraint. He will not chase flyers to wait for slow riders. All are welcome!”
Thomas smashes fundraising target
Thomas’ aim was to raise £100,000 for the NHS Charities Together, a target he smashed after the first day of his challenge.
At time of publication on Friday, more than 6,000 donors had helped to raise more than £200,000.


inews--2020-04-16--iPhone SE: Apple launches new 4.7-inch smartphone for £419 - here's everything you need to know

iPhone SE : Apple launches new 4.7-inch smartphone for £419 - here 's everything you need to know The handset is an update to its 2016 predecessor The full range of finishes for the iPhone SE ( 2020 ) ( Photo : Apple ) The new chip means it supports Portrait Mode photography , which uses machine learning to separate a photo 's subject from its background and blur the background accordingly .
It is water and dust-resistant ( IP67 rating ) , meaning it can withstand being emerged in up to 1m of water for half an hour , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affordable alternative to the iPhone XR .
The handset , which comes in a choice of black , white and red finishes and 64GB , 128Gb and 256GB storage options , will cost from £419 when it goes on sale on 24 April .
Pre-orders open on 17 April .
Apple 's original iPhone SE was extremely popular among consumers with a preference for smaller devices , as larger 'phablet ' ( phone-tablet ) -sized handsets became more widely adopted in the past six years .
The 4.7-inch iPhone 6 , which went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's first iPhone with a display larger than 4-inches .
The accompanying 5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus was the company 's first plus-sized handset and the pair remain Apple 's best-selling iPhones to date , shifting more than 220m units .
The iPhone SE ( 2020 ) has the same chipset as the current flagship iPhone 11 ( Photo : Apple ) While larger phones became the default for manufacturers , a vocal band of consumers championed small handsets for their ease of use and pocket-friendly size .
The iPhone SE was discontinued in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was available to buy from Apple 's website at a discounted price the following year .
The company said in February it was expecting to miss its revenue expectations amid a global iPhone shortage as a consequence of the shops closing .
Apple 's launch comes at a challenging time , as global phone sales are expected to slump to their lowest point in a decade as the industry weathers the pandemic 's economic repercussions .
Global demand for handsets in 2020 will fall by close to a quarter of a billion units @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent decrease - according to research from analyst CCS Insight .
Sales of both smartphones and basic feature devices will total just 1.57bn units this year , the lowest figures in a decade , 1.26bn of which will be smartphones , down from 1.41bn in 2019 .
`` In the near term , Apple 's biggest challenge will be meeting demand for the product .
We suspect the phone has already been delayed by several weeks thanks to the coronavirus outbreak , '' Ben Wood , chief of research at CCS Insight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting to see whether the arrival of such an affordable and well-specced iPhone will make consumers think twice about buying its premium flagship products which , depending on configuration , can easily approach three times the cost of the new iPhone SE .
History shows that iPhone purchasers seem happy to pay the premium Apple 's products command , but the current global economic uncertainty risks challenging this assumption . ''

Apple has announced a new smaller iPhone, the successor to the iPhone SE popular among fans of more compact handsets.
The second generation iPhone SE is a significant upgrade on the 2016 original, featuring a 4.7-inch display, TouchID fingerprint scanner for identity verification and single rear-facing 12MP camera.
Like last year’s iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro, the new handset contains an A13 Bionic chip processor for faster performance, advanced photography and smoother augmented reality (AR) experiences.
The new chip means it supports Portrait Mode photography, which uses machine learning to separate a photo’s subject from its background and blur the background accordingly.
It is water and dust-resistant (IP67 rating), meaning it can withstand being emerged in up to 1m of water for half an hour, and will be marketed as a more affordable alternative to the iPhone XR.
The handset, which comes in a choice of black, white and red finishes and 64GB, 128Gb and 256GB storage options, will cost from £419 when it goes on sale on 24 April. Pre-orders open on 17 April.
iPhone SE (2020) pricing £419 for 64GB
£469 for 128GB
£569 for 256GB
Apple’s original iPhone SE was extremely popular among consumers with a preference for smaller devices, as larger ‘phablet’ (phone-tablet)-sized handsets became more widely adopted in the past six years.
The 4.7-inch iPhone 6, which went on sale in 2014, was Apple’s first iPhone with a display larger than 4-inches. The accompanying 5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus was the company’s first plus-sized handset and the pair remain Apple’s best-selling iPhones to date, shifting more than 220m units.
While larger phones became the default for manufacturers, a vocal band of consumers championed small handsets for their ease of use and pocket-friendly size. The iPhone SE was discontinued in 2018 and quickly sold out when it was available to buy from Apple’s website at a discounted price the following year.
Sales amid coronavirus pandemic
The new phone is the latest product Apple has launched since the coronavirus outbreak caused the company to temporarily halt production in its Asian factories and close all its stores outside greater China.
The company said in February it was expecting to miss its revenue expectations amid a global iPhone shortage as a consequence of the shops closing.
Apple’s launch comes at a challenging time, as global phone sales are expected to slump to their lowest point in a decade as the industry weathers the pandemic’s economic repercussions.
Global demand for handsets in 2020 will fall by close to a quarter of a billion units compared to 2019 – a 13 per cent decrease – according to research from analyst CCS Insight.
Sales of both smartphones and basic feature devices will total just 1.57bn units this year, the lowest figures in a decade, 1.26bn of which will be smartphones , down from 1.41bn in 2019.
“In the near term, Apple’s biggest challenge will be meeting demand for the product. We suspect the phone has already been delayed by several weeks thanks to the coronavirus outbreak,” Ben Wood, chief of research at CCS Insight, said.
“Although manufacturing now seems to have normalised in China, getting products to markets around the world is still a major headache.”
“Apple will be nervously waiting to see whether the arrival of such an affordable and well-specced iPhone will make consumers think twice about buying its premium flagship products which, depending on configuration, can easily approach three times the cost of the new iPhone SE. History shows that iPhone purchasers seem happy to pay the premium Apple’s products command, but the current global economic uncertainty risks challenging this assumption.”


inews--2020-04-16--What time is Clap For Our Carers tonight? When the UK will thank the NHS and other key workers - and

What time is Clap For Our Carers tonight? When the UK will thank the NHS and other key workers - and how to join in

What time is Clap For Our Carers tonight ?
When the UK will thank the NHS and other key workers - and how to join in The Clap For Our Carers campaign will see people across the UK applaud key workers on Thursday 16 April at 8pm The Clap For Our Carers campaign will see people across the UK applaud NHS , delivery drivers , shop workers and other key workers from the doorsteps , balconies or windows of their homes , in order to say thank you for all of their hard work .
What is happening to NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been an outpouring of goodwill to the NHS during the coronavirus outbreak ( Photo : AFP/Getty Images ) How can you take part in Clap For Our Carers ?
People taking part in Clap For Our Carers are being encouraged to live stream their participation ( Photo : AFP/Getty Images ) Don ’ t go to your GP but instead look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next .
Only call 111 if you can not get help online .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ thoroughly .
The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve ( not your hands ) when you cough or sneeze ; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell .
Also avoiding touching eyes , nose and mouth unless your hands are clean .
However , these reasons are exceptions – even when doing these activities , you should be minimising time spent outside of the home and ensuring you are 2 metres apart from @ @ @ @ @ @

To thank the NHS workers and other key workers who are working tirelessly throughout the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in the UK, Thursday 28 May will once more see the weekly #ClapForOurCarers event dedicated to them.
This edition is set to be the last, with the campaign website explaining: “For nine weeks the community clap has become a huge televised event every Thursday at 8pm, but the final applause (for now) is upon us.
“Thursday 28th May 2020 marks the tenth national applause and will be the end in the current run, as lockdown begins to be eased.”
However, there are plans for it to become an annual event in the future: “Clap For Our Our Carers will continue to evolve its vision, with plans including an annual national event – Clap For Our Carers Day – taking place on 25th March 2021 (one year on from the first applause).”
The Clap For Our Carers campaign sees people across the UK applaud NHS, delivery drivers, shop workers and other key workers from the doorsteps, balconies or windows of their homes, in order to say thank you for all of their hard work.
What has happened to NHS staff during the coronavirus outbreak?
NHS workers are classed as key workers so it’s very difficult for them to get time off, and there may be an increasing number of staff shortages if workers themselves get ill from the virus.
The Government’s initial coronavirus action plan of 3 March included new measures designed “to save lives through delaying and flattening the peak of the epidemic”.
These include enabling “regulators to emergency register suitable people as regulated healthcare professionals, such as nurses, midwives or paramedics.
“This might include (but will not be limited to) recently retired professionals and students who are near the end of their training.”
However, frontline NHS staff are also currently not getting the protective equipment that they need in order to treat coronavirus patients.
Healthcare workers in hospitals throughout the UK have been voicing their concerns and frustration over the lack of personal protective equipment, known as PPE.
Workers explain that they are having to substitute the correct equipment with less effective items or even improvise with non-medical materials.
How can you take part in Clap For Our Carers?
The idea behind this campaign is to show our appreciation for doctors, nurses, GPs and every other NHS worker during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, alongside teachers, delivery drivers, shop workers, postal workers and other key workers.
The Clap For Our Carers website reads: “Clap every Thursday at 8pm on your doorstep, your balcony, your garden or front room.”
Similar events have already been held in countries including Spain, France and the Netherlands.
Italians and Spanish people have also been singing from their balconies and playing musical instruments in order to lift the spirits of not only their families, but their neighbours during the pandemic.


inews--2020-04-16--National Theatre Live streaming: how to watch Treasure Island on YouTube tonight, and the schedule o

National Theatre Live streaming: how to watch Treasure Island on YouTube tonight, and the schedule of free NT plays

National Theatre Live streaming : how to watch Treasure Island on YouTube tonight , and full schedule of free NT plays A range of plays will be made available to stream via YouTube in April and May , continuing with Treasure Island Just like all entertainment outlets , theatres have had to close their doors per the Government 's guidelines amid the Coronavirus pandemic .
However , the National Theatre is bringing the stage to the screen by streaming several iconic plays on YouTube every Thursday .
Explaining the reason for making the plays accessible to thousands free of charge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` During this unprecedented time which has seen the closure of theatres , cinemas and schools , the National Theatre announces a new initiative National Theatre at Home providing access to content online to serve audiences in their homes .
Here 's all you need to know about the National Theatre shows that are streaming .
Theatres in London have been forced to close amid the Coronavirus pandemic ( Photo : Leon Neal/Getty Images ) How can I watch the National Theatre shows from home ?
During the lockdown , the National Theatre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the public to still enjoy the best from the stage .
The best part of it all is that it 's free to watch .
Every Thursday at 7pm BST on the theatre 's official YouTube channel , fans will be able to stream a selection of performances for a week .
The National Theatre at Home initiative has won praise from fans for being given the chance to watch the plays for free .
But it 's all been made possible by the various cast and crews of the plays who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ director and joint chief executive of the National Theatre told the Guardian : `` Everyone has said yes .
Please .
Let ’ s get it out to people .
`` It has taken a bit of negotiation and management but the outpouring from the industry has been fantastic . ''
Tamsin Greig will be featuring in the stage production of Twelfth Night ( Photo : Jeff Spicer/Getty Images ) The free plays will run through to May with more titles being announced in due course .
However , that 's not all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there will also be a selection of Q & As with the cast and creative teams of the plays .
In a bid to help schools , colleges and universities , the National Theatre has also released a new National Theatre Collection which `` makes the best of British Theatre available worldwide to libraries , schools , universities and the wider education sector . ''

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


inews--2020-04-16--Gardening jobs for the weekend: Advice on keeping lawn weeds at bay and growing unusual mints

Gardening jobs for the weekend : Advice on keeping lawn weeds at bay and growing unusual mints Unusual mints are inexpensive yet surprising and easy to grow , while fast-growing spring lawn weeds are vulnerable to weedkiller Outdoor cucumbers and greenhouse crops can be started now for summer cropping .
Unusual mints are inexpensive , easy to grow and surprising .
Young leaves of basil mint fill in for pepperminty basil , until summer .
For further remarkable scents , try banana mint and Eau de Cologne mint .
Buddleia mint carries long mauve edible flower spikes , which are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by insects .
The grey-green leaves are valuable for flower arranging , too .
Mints grow well in any garden soil but ideally in full sun .
If planted in bare soil , regular hoeing can curb unwanted expansion .
If pot-raised , repot and divide each spring .
Hardy cucumbers , including gherkins , thrive outdoors in the south , although a cloche or similar covering is advisable in the north .
Sow three seeds per pot indoors now , thin to one and plant out in early summer into any fertile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ramble or are trained up supports , heavy crops of smallish , thick-skinned , well-flavoured cucumbers can continue until early autumn .
Pick thoroughly , as over-ripe ones suppress further cropping .
Surplus fruits make excellent pickles .
Eucomis is a dramatic summer bulb that can be planted now in well-drained , warm sunny places .
It flowers in late summer with a pineapple-like column of small , starry flowers topped with a leafy top-knot , on a base of leathery strap-like leaves .
Eucomis autumnalis has greeny white flowers , while Eucomis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Both grow to 30cm .
With lilac flowers and very dark green leaves , `` Sparkling Burgundy '' , at 50cm , is particularly lovely .
Protect with a coarse winter mulch .
Even unheated greenhouses will usually exclude frosts after mid-spring , so planting tender crops can go ahead .
Aubergines , chillies , cucumbers , melons , peppers and tomatoes are available as plants , with a good range being offered , if homegrown seedlings have not been raised .
There is still time to sow melons and cucumbers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ watering , so large pots are often easier to manage .
Border soil is easiest , but becomes `` tomato-sick '' if cropped too often with tomatoes .
Lawn weeds can survive regular mowing and spread by creeping or by seed .
The thicker the grass , the fewer the weeds , so lawn fertiliser will help exclude new ones .
Very close mowing can make space for weeds , so avoid `` scalping '' turf .
Weed control can be achieved by digging weeds out with a narrow trowel , but widespread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need lawn weedkiller treatment .
Fast-growing spring lawn weeds are especially vulnerable to weedkiller .
The Royal Horticultural Society is a charity working to share the best in gardening and make the UK a greener place .
Find out more at rhs.org.uk .

Outdoor cucumbers and greenhouse crops can be started now for summer cropping. Unusual mints are inexpensive, easy to grow and surprising.
Eucomis are another plant with character adding late summer drama. Some weeding concludes the busy spring lawn care regime.
1. Unusual mints
Young leaves of basil mint fill in for pepperminty basil, until summer. For further remarkable scents, try banana mint and Eau de Cologne mint. Buddleia mint carries long mauve edible flower spikes, which are relished, like all mint flowers, by insects. The grey-green leaves are valuable for flower arranging, too. Mints grow well in any garden soil but ideally in full sun. If planted in bare soil, regular hoeing can curb unwanted expansion. If pot-raised, repot and divide each spring.
2. Outdoor cucumbers
Hardy cucumbers, including gherkins, thrive outdoors in the south, although a cloche or similar covering is advisable in the north. Sow three seeds per pot indoors now, thin to one and plant out in early summer into any fertile soil in full sun. Whether they ramble or are trained up supports, heavy crops of smallish, thick-skinned, well-flavoured cucumbers can continue until early autumn. Pick thoroughly, as over-ripe ones suppress further cropping. Surplus fruits make excellent pickles.
3. Pineapple flowers
Eucomis is a dramatic summer bulb that can be planted now in well-drained, warm sunny places. It flowers in late summer with a pineapple-like column of small, starry flowers topped with a leafy top-knot, on a base of leathery strap-like leaves. Eucomis autumnalis has greeny white flowers, while Eucomis bicolor has lilac in its green-white flowers. Both grow to 30cm. With lilac flowers and very dark green leaves, “Sparkling Burgundy”, at 50cm, is particularly lovely. Protect with a coarse winter mulch.
4. Greenhouse crops
Even unheated greenhouses will usually exclude frosts after mid-spring, so planting tender crops can go ahead. Aubergines, chillies, cucumbers, melons, peppers and tomatoes are available as plants, with a good range being offered, if homegrown seedlings have not been raised. There is still time to sow melons and cucumbers. Growbags are convenient, but need frequent watering, so large pots are often easier to manage. Border soil is easiest, but becomes “tomato-sick” if cropped too often with tomatoes.
5. Lawn weeds
Lawn weeds can survive regular mowing and spread by creeping or by seed. The thicker the grass, the fewer the weeds, so lawn fertiliser will help exclude new ones. Very close mowing can make space for weeds, so avoid “scalping” turf. Weed control can be achieved by digging weeds out with a narrow trowel, but widespread weeds where fine turf is desired might need lawn weedkiller treatment. Fast-growing spring lawn weeds are especially vulnerable to weedkiller.
Guy Barter is chief horticultural adviser for the Royal Horticultural Society (@GuyBarter).
The Royal Horticultural Society is a charity working to share the best in gardening and make the UK a greener place. Find out more at rhs.org.uk.


inews--2020-04-16--WWE releases list: all the wrestlers released from the 2020 roster, from Mike Chioda to Sarah Logan

WWE releases list : all the wrestlers released from the 2020 roster , from Mike Chioda to Sarah Logan Talent releases are not uncommon , but the sheer number has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world Who has been released ?
It 's also been reported that talent working for the company 's 'developmental ' NXT brand - where wrestlers hone their craft before they are 'called up ' to WWE 's bigger shows - have been given 30 days pay , after which they have been told they are `` free to do whatever they want . ''
High @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WWE 's Performance Centre gym , with no fans in attendance ( Photo : WWE.com ) How can WWE continue at this time ?
John Cena and Bray Wyatt 's 'Firefly Funhouse ' match was about as 'arthouse ' as WWE will ever get ( Photo : WWE.com ) What are other wrestling companies doing ?
74-year old Vince McMahon presides over WWE ; long-time fans have been calling for his retirement in the face of dwindling TV ratings for years ( Photo : Mark A. Wallenfang/Getty Image ) WWE ploughs on regardless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vince McMahon , a personal friend of Donald Trump , and the man behind a product that has been waning in quality ( and the number of fans tuning in ) dramatically for years .

It’s a strange time for most sectors, with coronavirus wreaking havoc on the intricacies of every day life.
But consider the already strange world of professional wrestling, where men and women in trunks simulate hard-hitting, physical combat for the enjoyment and entertainment of others.
The biggest, and most famous, wrestling promotion out there is WWE, but it seems not even a multi-million dollar entertainment company is immune to the effects of the novel virus.
Yesterday (15 April), following a company wide conference call to employees that was reported to have lasted only five minutes, WWE released an unprecedented number of its staff, spurred on by Covid uncertainty that many of us are feeling.
These kinds of talent releases are not uncommon, and the company often makes cuts to shore up its budgets and get rid of any underutilised wrestlers.
But the sheer number of this week’s releases has sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling world, an industry that is infamously non-unionised, particularly in its upper “leagues”.
Who has been released?
https://twitter.com/WWEMaverick/status/1250493936185102339
At the time of writing WWE has released over 30 employees, a list of names that includes not just wrestlers, but backstage producers, commentators and trainers.
The 20+ wrestlers who have been released by the company include British grappler Drake Maverick, who posted an emotional video to Twitter shortly after the news broke.
The list of names also includes married couple Mike and Maria Kanellis, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson (who technically appeared as part of a Wrestlemania ‘main event’ match in early April) and Hall of Famer Kurt Angle, who was working in a backstage role at the time.
Some of the names – including Heath Slater and Zack Ryder – had been with the company for around 15 years.
The full list of released wrestlers is as follows (real names in brackets): Drake Maverick (James Curtin)
Curt Hawkins (Brian Myers)
Karl Anderson (Chad Allegra)
Luke Gallows (Drew Hankinson)
Heath Slater (Heath Miller)
Aiden English (Matthew Rehwoldt)
Eric Young (Jeremy Fritz)
EC3 (Michael Hutter)
Lio Rush (Lionel Green)
Kurt Angle
Sarah Logan (Sarah Rowe)
Mike Chioda
Primo (Edwin Colon)
Epico (Orlando Colon Nieves)
Rowan (Joseph Ruud)
Mike Kanellis (Mike Bennett)
Maria Kanellis
Zack Ryder (Matthew Cardona)
No Way Jose (Levis Valenzuela)
Rusev (Miroslav Barnyashev)
Deonna Purrazzo
Aleksandar Jaksic
It’s also been reported that talent working for the company’s ‘developmental’ NXT brand – where wrestlers hone their craft before they are ‘called up’ to WWE’s bigger shows – have been given 30 days pay, after which they have been told they are “free to do whatever they want.”
How is WWE handling coronavirus?
It’s been a bit of a weird time for the company.
Earlier this month they hosted Wrestlemania – normally an annual Superbowl-style showcase of wrestling talent held in front of tens of thousands of screaming fans – at the company’s Performance Centre in Orlando, Florida.
Essentially a glorified gym used to train up the newest recruits, the Performance Centre shows were empty of fans, filmed with a limited crew and entirely devoid of atmosphere.
Many fans had called for the complete postponement of the event ahead of its pre-recorded broadcast, but strangely, Wrestlemania 36 didn’t turn out as bad as many had predicted.
There were a number of matches that were genuinely worth watching, and WWE even got round Covid-imposed restrictions by filming certain high-profile bouts in a ‘cinematic’ style.
A ‘match’ between wrestler turned Hollywood actor John Cena and his rival Bray “The Fiend” Wyatt more resembled an extended scene from Being John Malkovich, for instance.
A deep dive into Cena’s psyche that referenced everything from his WWE debut to fans’ continued calls for him to “turn heel” (bad guy), it was divisive sure.
But for a twisted take on the usual pro-wrestling format, it has to be seen to be believed.
How can WWE continue at this time?
The company have been broadcasting their weekly ‘live’ shows from their Performance Centre for a number of weeks now, albeit in a pre-taped form. But this week, they switched back to live broadcasting.
That was initially in direct conflict with state-wide orders issued by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, but DeSantis later clarified the lockdown measures, and deemed WWE an “essential” business, delivering entertainment to a nation suffering under the crisis.
WWE have been quick to point out they’re taking the “current circumstances” (they noticeable refuse to mention coronavirus by name on-air) seriously, screening talent before they’re allowed on the premises of any filming.
But with many of the more established members of the roster not living in the Orlando area, that means they’re having to fly in to each show.
That includes older members of the cast, including commentator Jerry “The King” Lawler, who’s 70 years old and suffered a legitimate, on-air heart attack during a show in 2012.
Oh, and since this week’s Monday Night RAW, he’s been under fire for referring to the move of Japanese wrestler Akira Tozawa as the “Ramen Noodle Moonsault.”
What are other wrestling companies doing?
Wrestling is in a weird place right now (this article only scratches the surface). Companies smaller than WWE have ceased all events indefinitely.
New Japan Pro Wrestling (arguably the world’s second biggest wrestling company) this week banded together with other promotions from Japan to argue that professional-wrestling should be the last ‘sport’ to be revived post-Covid; the health of talent and fans is far more important.
A difference in culture which is to be applauded.
WWE ploughs on regardless, spearheaded by its 74-year old CEO Vince McMahon, a personal friend of Donald Trump, and the man behind a product that has been waning in quality (and the number of fans tuning in) dramatically for years.


inews--2020-04-16--Mexican filmmaker Gael García Bernal: 'The political situation in the United States is incredibly te

Mexican filmmaker Gael García Bernal: 'The political situation in the United States is incredibly terrifying'

Mexican filmmaker Gael García Bernal : 'The political situation in the United States is incredibly terrifying' The actor and director talks to James Mottram about politics , collaborations and his debut which opened the world to Mexican film-making Couples dance along Revolution Avenue at night in Mexico ( Photo : Spencer Platt/Getty ) Iñárritu went on to win Oscars for Birdman and The Revenant , joining countrymen Alfonso Cuarón ( Gravity , Roma ) and Guillermo del Toro ( The Shape of Water ) in claiming five of the past seven statues for Best Director at the Academy Awards .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the most important stars of Latin American cinema .
Behind the camera , Bernal forged his own production company , Canana Films , with Luna , helping numerous projects get off the ground – among them , Sin Nombre , the first film by Cary Fukunaga ( the director of forthcoming James Bond movie No Time to Die ) , Lucrecia Martel ’ s critically acclaimed Zama and early films by Chile ’ s Pablo Larraín , Post Mortem and the Oscar-nominated No , in which Bernal played an advertising executive at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He and Larraín reunited for 2016 ’ s Neruda , about the Chilean poet and politician Pablo Neruda .
“ I enjoy being an actor , ” he says .
But usually , he ’ s directing in his own head .
“ There ’ s always a point on any film where inevitably I ’ m like , ‘ I wish the camera was here , capturing this ’ .
But with certain people , like Larraín there is [ still ] a strong collaboration , of putting the scene together , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The film begins as Ema and Gastón are forced to deal with their out-of-control adopted son , putting him back in the system after an incident of arson ( Photo : Film Still , MUBI ) The fallout forms the backbone of Ema , which , as Bernal puts it , challenges audiences ( Photo : Film Still , MOBI ) Largely , Bernal has avoided Hollywood blockbusters ; you are more likely to find him working with Jim Jarmusch ( The Limits of Control ) or Michel Gondry ( The Science @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used the system as a platform .
In 2017 , presenting the award for Best Animated Feature at the Oscars , he pointedly made reference to Donald Trump ’ s plans to build a border wall between Mexico and the US .
“ As a Mexican , as a Latin American , as a migrant worker , as a human being , ” he said , “ I ’ m against any form of wall that wants to separate us.
” While Trump ’ s proposed wall has yet to come to fruition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political movement in America was formed to stop it .
“ The political situation in the United States is incredibly terrifying .
There is no real representation .
People are not in power , it is not a democracy .
We should not take it lightly .
”

Twenty years ago at the Cannes Film Festival, an unknown 21-year-old actor called Gael García Bernal arrived from his native Mexico with a film called Amores Perros, by the equally little-known film-maker Alejandro González Iñárritu.
“It was a very different time back then,” Bernal reflects now.
“Mexican films weren’t even seen in Mexico. I remember after we finished the film, saying to the producer, ‘Would you please send me a VHS so my family can see it?’”
The film’s gripping, interlocking tales of people in Mexico City became a sensation.
“Everyone talked about it,” says Bernal. “It changed our lives.”
Iñárritu went on to win Oscars for Birdman and The Revenant, joining countrymen Alfonso Cuarón (Gravity, Roma) and Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water) in claiming five of the past seven statues for Best Director at the Academy Awards. And Bernal? He has become one of the most important stars of Latin American cinema.
Working with everyone from Pedro Almodóvar (Bad Education) to Pixar (Coco), he has even played Che Guevara twice – in Fidel and The Motorcycle Diaries.
Raised in a left-wing intellectual household in Guadalajara by parents who were both well-known stage actors, Bernal acted in Mexican soap operas in his teens, and later studied at London’s Central School of Speech and Drama.
But it was Amores Perros and Cuarón’s beguiling road movie Y Tu Mamá También – which arrived less than a year later, co-starring Bernal’s childhood friend Diego Luna – that changed everything.
Behind the camera, Bernal forged his own production company, Canana Films, with Luna, helping numerous projects get off the ground – among them, Sin Nombre, the first film by Cary Fukunaga (the director of forthcoming James Bond movie No Time to Die), Lucrecia Martel’s critically acclaimed Zama and early films by Chile’s Pablo Larraín, Post Mortem and the Oscar-nominated No, in which Bernal played an advertising executive at the end of the Pinochet regime. He and Larraín reunited for 2016’s Neruda, about the Chilean poet and politician Pablo Neruda.
“I enjoy being an actor,” he says. But usually, he’s directing in his own head. “There’s always a point on any film where inevitably I’m like, ‘I wish the camera was here, capturing this’. But with certain people, like Larraín there is [still] a strong collaboration, of putting the scene together, of organising it, of placing it.”
Now they are back together for Ema, a stylish and unusual millennial adoption drama. Newcomer Mariana Di Girolamo plays the title character, a reggaeton dancer whose moves are as fluid as her sexuality – although she is nominally married to Bernal’s choreographer, Gastón.
The film begins as Ema and Gastón are forced to deal with their out-of-control adopted son, putting him back in the system after an incident of arson.
The fallout forms the backbone of Ema, which, as Bernal puts it, challenges audiences with its look at “family, the concept of sexuality, the concept of solitude and the concept of freedom”.
Whether it’s with his Mexican friends, Larraín or even his collaborators on Amazon Prime drama Mozart in the Jungle, which won him a Golden Globe, Bernal thrives on the collective.
‘As a Mexican, as a Latin American, as a migrant worker, as a human being, I’m against any form of wall that wants to separate us’
“That’s the way I learned how to do cinema, in a community.”
That was never more apparent than last year when Bernal bought his second film as director, Chicuarotes, to Cannes.
In the audience were Luna and Iñárritu, whom he hadn’t made a film with since 2006’s Babel.
This story of delinquent Mexico City youths felt born out of their debut. “It’s inevitable that anything I do has been influenced by Amores Perros,” he says, “maybe on a poetic level, maybe on a far-fetched level.”
Largely, Bernal has avoided Hollywood blockbusters; you are more likely to find him working with Jim Jarmusch (The Limits of Control) or Michel Gondry (The Science of Sleep). But he has used the system as a platform.
In 2017, presenting the award for Best Animated Feature at the Oscars, he pointedly made reference to Donald Trump’s plans to build a border wall between Mexico and the US. “As a Mexican, as a Latin American, as a migrant worker, as a human being,” he said, “I’m against any form of wall that wants to separate us.”
His political conscience stretches back to his teenage years, when he took part in the peaceful uprising in the state of Chiapas in support of Marcos Zapatista’s rebels.
While Trump’s proposed wall has yet to come to fruition, Bernal laments the fact that no political movement in America was formed to stop it. “The political situation in the United States is incredibly terrifying. There is no real representation. People are not in power, it is not a democracy. We should not take it lightly.”
He sighs. “As Mexicans, we know from day one that [Trump] is racist. He’s an ignorant, racist bigot.”
As for what’s next, he has been in Chicago, shooting HBO mini-series Station Eleven, a 10-episode drama about survivors of a deadly flu pandemic.
Heaven knows how it will be received when it finally reaches our screens.
Before this, he will be seen in Olivier Assayas’ political drama Wasp Network and in Elia Suleiman’s droll comedy It Must Be Heaven, playing “a caricature version” of himself.
The role made him feel “self-conscious” – an admission typical of his nature. He even comes over as shy when I ask how he’d like to be remembered.
“I don’t think about those things too much. My actions will speak for me. My spirit will talk!”
Ema is available on Mubi from 2 May


inews--2020-04-16--Free audiobooks for children are booming during the coronavirus lockdown, from Winnie The Pooh to Ha

Free audiobooks for children are booming during the coronavirus lockdown, from Winnie The Pooh to Harry Potter

Free audiobooks for children are booming during the coronavirus lockdown , from Winnie The Pooh to Harry Potter There are so many different options to choose from to keep young minds alert while schools are closed Since schools and nurseries closed their doors there has , no doubt to the relief of new and unprepared home educators , been a boom in audio content created especially for kids and streamed or played via a range of audio devices , many of which they can operate themselves .
When the closures were first confirmed in March , Audible , the paid-for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced it was making more than 200 titles for children and young adults free to listen to without the need to sign up .
And last week , Audible announced that Harry Potter and the Philosopher ’ s Stone ( read by Stephen Fry in English and Bernard Giraudeau in French ) was being added to the free library for older children .
“ Stories help .
They entertain .
They teach .
They keep young minds active , alert , and engaged .
Kids everywhere can instantly stream an incredible collection of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ languages , that will help them continue dreaming and learning.
” Young children are able to operate the Toniebox by themselves ( Photo : Tonies ) But Audible isn ’ t the only way children can access age-appropriate content .
First launched in Germany and Switzerland in 2016 , and then in the UK in November 2018 , the Toniebox is an audio player designed specifically for children to operate by themselves .
The German-based company says it has experienced a 500 per cent increase in sales across Europe of late as so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Child psychologist Dr Kairen Cullen has been working with Tonies and says that the story box offers a great alternative to screen time for children whose parents are trying to work from home .
She says : “ Audio-visual resources are fantastic sources of information and entertainment , but they do need to be managed so that other more creative , social and physical activities are also prioritised in a child ’ s learning .
`` The Toniebox is a great addition to the newer technology options available to families because it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creative , exercise control over the content they hear and learn and engage with audio material in a screenless setting.
” While it requires a Wi-Fi connection ( and a grown up ) to set up initially , after that , every time a Tonie is put on top of the box , the content downloads immediately and plays aloud .
The Tonies are magnetic , meaning they are easy for children to place correctly and you can fast-forward or rewind by tilting the box to one side .
The volume is controlled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” on either side of the box .
To support children during the current coronavirus pandemic , Tonies have just launched a new story called In This Together by Giles Paley-Phillips .
The audiobook was created to explain the current global pandemic to young children and is free to download via tonies.com Meanwhile the Yoto Player , first launched in 2015 , is another easily operated audio box that children can use themselves – they insert “ story cards ” into the slot then listen either through the built-in speaker or their own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night light and clock .
The Yoto Player was inspired by the Montessori method ( Photo : Yoto ) He adds : “ Research shows that audio can help to inspire creativity and imagination in children , whereas screen time has the opposite effect .
With the Yoto Player , children can listen to audio without a smartphone screen.
” The children ’ s sleep app Moshi ( previously Moshi Twilight ) has also seen a big increase in the number of downloads of the audio-only bedtime story app that is specifically designed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said : “ Stories help children learn how to pronounce words and develop their thoughts and feelings into sentences .
Some have thought that audio-only stories may have a lesser impact on cognitive and emotional development .
However , in a study that compared brain activation between audio-only and text-based narrative , researchers found the same parts of the brain were activated in both scenarios.
” And while no one would disagree that the best way for children to experience reading is aloud with a parent or caregiver , killing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child explore an audiobook for themselves definitely comes with less guilt than yet another Disney+ binge .
Five of the best titles on Yoto Five of the best titles on Toniebox

Since schools and nurseries closed their doors there has, no doubt to the relief of new and unprepared home educators, been a boom in audio content created especially for kids and streamed or played via a range of audio devices, many of which they can operate themselves.
When the closures were first confirmed in March, Audible, the paid-for audiobook subscription service owned by Amazon, announced it was making more than 200 titles for children and young adults free to listen to without the need to sign up.
Among the free stories for younger children are Timeless Tales of Beatrix Potter, a range of Winnie-The-Pooh stories and The Owl and the Pussy-Cat.
And last week, Audible announced that Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (read by Stephen Fry in English and Bernard Giraudeau in French) was being added to the free library for older children.
“For as long as schools are closed, we’re open,” said a spokesman for Audible.
“Stories help. They entertain. They teach. They keep young minds active, alert, and engaged. Kids everywhere can instantly stream an incredible collection of stories, including titles across six different languages, that will help them continue dreaming and learning.”
Little listeners can enjoy the free content via laptops, phones or tablets.
Child-operated technology
But Audible isn’t the only way children can access age-appropriate content. First launched in Germany and Switzerland in 2016,and then in the UK in November 2018, the Toniebox is an audio player designed specifically for children to operate by themselves. The German-based company says it has experienced a 500 per cent increase in sales across Europe of late as so much of the continent is on lockdown.
Child psychologist Dr Kairen Cullen has been working with Tonies and says that the story box offers a great alternative to screen time for children whose parents are trying to work from home.
She says: “Audio-visual resources are fantastic sources of information and entertainment, but they do need to be managed so that other more creative, social and physical activities are also prioritised in a child’s learning.
“The Toniebox is a great addition to the newer technology options available to families because it provides children with the opportunity to get creative, exercise control over the content they hear and learn and engage with audio material in a screenless setting.”
Different stories are loaded onto different characters, called Tonies, that sit on top of the box.
While it requires a Wi-Fi connection (and a grown up) to set up initially, after that, every time a Tonie is put on top of the box, the content downloads immediately and plays aloud.
The Tonies are magnetic, meaning they are easy for children to place correctly and you can fast-forward or rewind by tilting the box to one side. The volume is controlled by a squeeze of the “ears” on either side of the box.
To support children during the current coronavirus pandemic, Tonies have just launched a new story called In This Together by Giles Paley-Phillips. The audiobook was created to explain the current global pandemic to young children and is free to download via tonies.com
The Montessori method
Meanwhile the Yoto Player, first launched in 2015, is another easily operated audio box that children can use themselves – they insert “story cards” into the slot then listen either through the built-in speaker or their own headphones. It also acts as a night light and clock.
The British company, which recently launched its second-generation player, says that sales have doubled week on week during lockdown.
Ben Drury, who co-founded the Yoto Player alongside Filip Denker, says the idea was inspired by the Montessori method of education – a child-centred educational approach.
He adds: “Research shows that audio can help to inspire creativity and imagination in children, whereas screen time has the opposite effect. With the Yoto Player, children can listen to audio without a smartphone screen.”
The children’s sleep app Moshi (previously Moshi Twilight) has also seen a big increase in the number of downloads of the audio-only bedtime story app that is specifically designed to help children fall asleep more easily.
In the past two weeks, the number of new users downloading the Moshi app on a daily basis has increased by 51 per cent.
No screens before bedtime
Dr Azizi Seixas, a sleep expert and assistant professor based in New York, supports the app as he believes that storytelling is fundamental to the development of children.
He said: “Stories help children learn how to pronounce words and develop their thoughts and feelings into sentences. Some have thought that audio-only stories may have a lesser impact on cognitive and emotional development. However, in a study that compared brain activation between audio-only and text-based narrative, researchers found the same parts of the brain were activated in both scenarios.”
And while no one would disagree that the best way for children to experience reading is aloud with a parent or caregiver, killing the odd hour during the day letting your child explore an audiobook for themselves definitely comes with less guilt than yet another Disney+ binge.
10 of the best free children’s books on Audible
Timeless Tales of Beatrix Potter: Peter Rabbit and Friends by Beatrix Potter
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
The House at Pooh Corner by AA Milne
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling
The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins by Dr Seuss
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Grimm’s Fairy Stories by The Brothers Grimm
Just So Stories by Rudyard Kipling
Five of the best titles on Yoto
Yoto Player £79.99 from yotoplay.com
The Dinosaur that Pooped by Dougie Poynter & Tom Fletcher. Five-card bundle £19.99 .
. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. £8.99.
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame. £8.99 .
. Heidi by Johanna Spyri. £8.99 .
. Mog the Forgetful Cat by Judith Kerr. £4.99.
Five of the best titles on Toniebox
Starter set (including box and one creative Tonie) £69.95 from tonies.com
Disney’s The Lion King. £14.99 .
. Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney. £14.99 .
. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson. £14.99 .
. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. £14.99.
In This Together by Giles Paley-Phillips. Free, a free audiobook created to explain the current global pandemic to children. Free to download via tonies.com
This article has been updated.


inews--2020-04-16--'I'm sick, apprehensive, worried and scared': Nearly a fifth of renters expect to lose their jobs in

'I'm sick, apprehensive, worried and scared': Nearly a fifth of renters expect to lose their jobs in next three months

' I 'm sick , apprehensive , worried and scared ' : Nearly a fifth of renters expect to lose their jobs in next three months A total of 1.7m people across the UK believe they could be left without employment and unable to pay their rent , Shelter 's research shows A total of 1.7m people across the UK believe they could be left without employment during this critical time and left unable to pay rent according to the housing charity 's latest survey , leading them to call on the Government to increase Universal Credit allowances in line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conducted by YouGov shortly after the Government announced its support scheme for businesses and workers , found that almost one in four renters ( 24 per cent ) had already seen their income fall or had lost their job as a result of the pandemic .
Another two million renters ( 23 per cent ) said losing their job will leave them immediately unable to pay their rent .
One renter who had already hit hard times is 26-year-old Sam , who lives in the Hertfordshire and Essex region .
Sam lost his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been left with £111 to live on a month after claiming Universal Credit .
`` I was expected the work the festival circuit , which generates thousands of pounds of my income , and I was working occasionally at an Indian restaurant with a man who had just started up with his life savings and hard work achieving his dream .
Two months later , he has shut his doors - probably to never open again .
`` I 'm sick , apprehensive , worried and scared , '' he said , adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he would go barely a few days without work .
`` There is also frustration at the lack of common sense in this lockdown .
I feel worried that I am going to owe thousands in rent as my landlord still needs to pay bills . ''
He said the Government 's advice to avoid restaurants meant many were left unemployed before the lockdown started .
`` Since 9 March I have been paid £511 for the month of employment .
Universal credit has awarded me £0 for April 's payment , meaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not due another payment till 9 May .
`` My parents live fairly local , but both suffer with health issues and can not help financially , however their mental support is something I rely on .
Recently I have been unable to see them , and it is taking its toll on me , as it is for most of the world , '' he added .
The housing element of Universal Credit only covers the lowest third of market rents in an area , meaning those paying average rents will face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a two-bedroom home , the shortfall is as high as £400 a month outside of London , and up to £1,227 in the capital .
Polly Neate , chief executive at Shelter , said : “ The Government has rightly suspended evictions until June , so no one has to face homelessness in the middle of this pandemic .
But millions of renters will be in dire straits further down the line without more Government support .
Private renters might have to rely on the welfare safety net for the first time ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As renters lose their jobs and see their incomes hit , many will have to rely on the welfare safety net for the first time .
Our services are already hearing from families in homes they could comfortably afford under normal circumstances , who are now in serious financial difficulty .
“ We ’ re facing an onslaught of people suddenly unable to afford their rent , at a time when people need to stay put and can not safely move to a cheaper home .
To avoid spiralling debt and needless evictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must increase the housing element of Universal Credit so that it covers the average cost of local rents.
” The department for Housing states that people facing financial hardship and struggling to pay rent should speak to their landlord in the first instance if they think they will have difficulty meeting a rental payment , and that both Universal Credit and Housing Benefit is increasing from April , with Local Housing Allowance rates paying for at least 30 per cent of market rents in each area .
Landlords with a Buy to Let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month mortgage payment holiday .
The Ministry of Housing , Communities and Local Government told i it has put `` unprecedented measures '' in place to help tenants , and directed those in fear of losing their jobs to read about the Government 's job retention scheme.A government spokesperson said : “ The Government has put in place unprecedented measures to support tenants from getting into financial hardship or rent arrears , including protecting millions of jobs up and down the country and increasing Universal Credit and housing allowances .
“ Emergency legislation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or private renter can be forced out of their home – with landlords unable to start proceedings to evict tenants for at least the next three months .
We have the power to extend this if necessary .
”

Nearly a fifth of renters estimate they will lose their job in the next three months as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, new research by Shelter has revealed.
A total of 1.7m people across the UK believe they could be left without employment during this critical time and left unable to pay rent according to the housing charity’s latest survey, leading them to call on the Government to increase Universal Credit allowances in line with market rents.
The poll, conducted by YouGov shortly after the Government announced its support scheme for businesses and workers, found that almost one in four renters (24 per cent) had already seen their income fall or had lost their job as a result of the pandemic. Another two million renters (23 per cent) said losing their job will leave them immediately unable to pay their rent.
‘I’m sick, apprehensive, worried and scared’
One renter who had already hit hard times is 26-year-old Sam, who lives in the Hertfordshire and Essex region. Sam lost his job as a chef, and has been left with £111 to live on a month after claiming Universal Credit.
“I was recently working rather comfortably as a chef on a part-time basis at a golf club and freelancing round several food stalls in London. My employment finished on 9 March due to uncertainty surrounding the virus,” he told i.
“I was expected the work the festival circuit, which generates thousands of pounds of my income, and I was working occasionally at an Indian restaurant with a man who had just started up with his life savings and hard work achieving his dream. Two months later, he has shut his doors – probably to never open again.
“I’m sick, apprehensive, worried and scared,” he said, adding that he mainly feels frustrated as normally he would go barely a few days without work. “There is also frustration at the lack of common sense in this lockdown. I feel worried that I am going to owe thousands in rent as my landlord still needs to pay bills.”
He said the Government’s advice to avoid restaurants meant many were left unemployed before the lockdown started. “Since 9 March I have been paid £511 for the month of employment. Universal credit has awarded me £0 for April’s payment, meaning I am heavily in debt and am not due another payment till 9 May.
“My parents live fairly local, but both suffer with health issues and cannot help financially, however their mental support is something I rely on. Recently I have been unable to see them, and it is taking its toll on me, as it is for most of the world,” he added.
Calls for Universal Credit increase
The housing element of Universal Credit only covers the lowest third of market rents in an area, meaning those paying average rents will face a large shortfall. For families in a two-bedroom home, the shortfall is as high as £400 a month outside of London, and up to £1,227 in the capital.
Polly Neate, chief executive at Shelter, said: “The Government has rightly suspended evictions until June, so no one has to face homelessness in the middle of this pandemic. But millions of renters will be in dire straits further down the line without more Government support.
“As renters lose their jobs and see their incomes hit, many will have to rely on the welfare safety net for the first time. Our services are already hearing from families in homes they could comfortably afford under normal circumstances, who are now in serious financial difficulty.
“We’re facing an onslaught of people suddenly unable to afford their rent, at a time when people need to stay put and cannot safely move to a cheaper home. To avoid spiralling debt and needless evictions once the ban lifts, the Government must increase the housing element of Universal Credit so that it covers the average cost of local rents.”
The department for Housing states that people facing financial hardship and struggling to pay rent should speak to their landlord in the first instance if they think they will have difficulty meeting a rental payment, and that both Universal Credit and Housing Benefit is increasing from April, with Local Housing Allowance rates paying for at least 30 per cent of market rents in each area. Landlords with a Buy to Let mortgage can also apply for a three month mortgage payment holiday.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government told i it has put “unprecedented measures” in place to help tenants, and directed those in fear of losing their jobs to read about the Government’s job retention scheme.
A government spokesperson said: “The Government has put in place unprecedented measures to support tenants from getting into financial hardship or rent arrears, including protecting millions of jobs up and down the country and increasing Universal Credit and housing allowances.
“Emergency legislation is now in place so no social or private renter can be forced out of their home – with landlords unable to start proceedings to evict tenants for at least the next three months. We have the power to extend this if necessary.”
Anyone facing homelessness can get free and expert advice from Shelter by visiting www.shelter.org.uk/get_help


inews--2020-04-16--Treasure Island cast: who stars in the National Theatre Live play, and what time to watch on YouTube

Treasure Island cast: who stars in the National Theatre Live play, and what time to watch on YouTube tonight

Treasure Island cast : who stars in the National Theatre Live play , and what time to watch on YouTube tonight Robert Louis Stevenson 's classic adventure story is being streamed on YouTube to keep drama fans happy during lockdown The National Theatre is continuing to stream some of its most popular plays for free on YouTube to help drama fans through the coronavirus lockdown .
The National Theatre at Home programme , which screens plays previously shown in cinemas as part of National Theatre Live , has already shown James Corden 's One Man , Two Guvnors and Jane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Treasure Island to your laptops , phones and tablets .
The play , based on the nautical adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson , will be available to stream on the National Theatre 's YouTube channel at 7pm on Thursday 16 April .
It is suitable for all audiences aged 10 and over .
The synopsis says : `` It ’ s a dark , stormy night .
The stars are out .
Jim , the inn-keeper ’ s granddaughter , opens the door to a terrifying stranger .
At the old sailor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , full of secrets .
Jim invites him in – and her dangerous voyage begins . ''
Speaking about the National Theatre at Home programme , executive director Lisa Burger said : `` Our ambition at the National Theatre is to create work which is challenging , entertaining and inspiring and we 're committed to continuing that through these difficult times .
`` I 'm thrilled that we 're able to fulfil this ambition in a different way through our collaboration with YouTube .
`` I am exceptionally proud of the team at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to create National Theatre at Home and also to the rights holders who have been so supportive of this new initiative allowing us to bring theatre to households right across the world . ''
Spanish actress Patsy Ferran , who has appeared in the Royal Shakespeare Company 's production of The Merchant of Venice and TV drama series Jamestown , plays Jim Hawkins .
Ferran tweeted : `` Guysguysguys !
!
So listen , 5 years ago I did this thing where I got to pretend to sail a pirate ship and find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to record it one night cos GUESS WHAT ?
!
the @ NTLive are gon na stream that pirate-filled bad boy tonight !
!
7pm !
YouTube !
! ''
Long John Silver is played Arthur Davill , who played one of Matt Smith 's companions in Doctor Who and has also appeared in Broadchurch .

The National Theatre is continuing to stream some of its most popular plays for free on YouTube to help drama fans through the coronavirus lockdown.
The National Theatre at Home programme, which screens plays previously shown in cinemas as part of National Theatre Live, has already shown James Corden’s One Man, Two Guvnors and Jane Eyre.
And now it is bringing Treasure Island to your laptops, phones and tablets.
How to watch Treasure Island
The play, based on the nautical adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, was made available to stream on the National Theatre’s YouTube channel at 7pm on Thursday 16 April.
It is suitable for all audiences aged 10 and over.
The synopsis says: “It’s a dark, stormy night. The stars are out. Jim, the inn-keeper’s granddaughter, opens the door to a terrifying stranger. At the old sailor’s feet sits a huge sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in – and her dangerous voyage begins.”
Speaking about the National Theatre at Home programme, executive director Lisa Burger said: “Our ambition at the National Theatre is to create work which is challenging, entertaining and inspiring and we’re committed to continuing that through these difficult times.
“I’m thrilled that we’re able to fulfil this ambition in a different way through our collaboration with YouTube.
“I am exceptionally proud of the team at the National Theatre for working so hard to create National Theatre at Home and also to the rights holders who have been so supportive of this new initiative allowing us to bring theatre to households right across the world.”
Who’s in the cast?
Spanish actress Patsy Ferran, who has appeared in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of The Merchant of Venice and TV drama series Jamestown, plays Jim Hawkins.
Ferran tweeted: “Guysguysguys!! So listen, 5 years ago I did this thing where I got to pretend to sail a pirate ship and find buried treasure and thank goodness someone decided to record it one night cos GUESS WHAT?! the @NTLive are gonna stream that pirate-filled bad boy tonight!! 7pm! YouTube!!”
Guysguysguys!! So listen, 5 years ago I did this thing where I got to pretend to sail a pirate ship and find buried treasure and thank goodness someone decided to record it one night cos GUESS WHAT?! the @NTLive are gonna stream that pirate-filled bad boy tonight!! 7pm! YouTube!! https://t.co/BIQhOGc1aV — Patsy Ferran (@PatsyFerran) April 16, 2020
Long John Silver is played Arthur Davill, who played one of Matt Smith’s companions in Doctor Who and has also appeared in Broadchurch.
Alexandra Maher plays Dr Livesey, Paul Dodds plays Captain Smollett and Nick Fletcher plays Squire Trelawney.


inews--2020-04-16--Why Romanian fruit and veg pickers are being flown to the UK to work on farms during the coronavirus

Why Romanian fruit and veg pickers are being flown to the UK to work on farms during the coronavirus crisis Seasonal workers come to Britain every year to earn during the harvest Farm workers from Eastern Europe are being flown to the UK to pick fruit and vegetable crops as British growers look to ensure the harvest still comes in during the Covid-19 pandemic .
Farmers have said they will need tens of thousands of seasonal workers to bring in the nation 's food this year , and while Britons are being urged to sign up to help out , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bring in foreign nationals due to fears of shortfalls .
Britain , its own nationals seemingly reluctant , has long been reliant on such a workforce - every year , thousands come to the country to earn during the harvest .
With the food industry strained due to coronavirus , help is needed more than ever .
The international carrier said the plane is the first of six to operate between April and June as growers warn that food would otherwise be left to `` rot in the fields '' if 70,000-plus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ready .
Romanians will be the first to arrive ( Photo : Justin Sutcliffe ) Before flying from Iasi , eastern Romania , to the UK , workers will have their temperatures taken and carry out a health questionnaire , according to the BBC .
Minibuses will take them from Stansted to farms in the South East and the Midlands .
Firms involved in chartering are reportedly working with Public Health England to ensure people 's safety and those arriving will be screened before leaving the airport .
Those who display symptoms will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of private companies bringing in workers , but is n't playing an active role in chartering flights .
Instead , officials are hoping to encourage Britons to pitch in .
“ We know the demand for seasonal agricultural workers will rise in the months ahead , which is why we are working hard with industry to ensure farmers and growers have the support they need ahead of this time , '' a spokeswoman said in a statement to i .
“ We are encouraging as many people as possible to take part in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help bring the harvest in , and recruitment efforts by industry are well underway.
” The National Farmers ' Union ( NFU ) , as well as food network Home Grown and others in the industry , have long been calling for a `` land army '' of UK workers .
Home Grown Founder James Patrick said to i previously : `` When the lockdown happened and seasonal workers found themselves unable to come to Britain , there was talk of food rotting in the fields .
`` We want to connect farmers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We 're providing an open forum to help .
We 're talking to industry groups to see how this can be done safely .
Everyone needs to do their bit . ''
NFU vice president Tom Bradshaw said : `` Growers that rely on seasonal workers to grow , pick and pack our fresh fruit , veg and flowers are extremely concerned about the impact coronavirus restrictions may have on their ability to recruit this critical workforce this season . ''

Farm workers from Eastern Europe are being flown to the UK to pick fruit and vegetable crops as British growers look to ensure the harvest still comes in during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Farmers have said they will need tens of thousands of seasonal workers to bring in the nation’s food this year, and while Britons are being urged to sign up to help out, companies are also starting to charter flights to bring in foreign nationals due to fears of shortfalls.
Britain, its own nationals seemingly reluctant, has long been reliant on such a workforce – every year, thousands come to the country to earn during the harvest. With the food industry strained due to coronavirus, help is needed more than ever.
Air Charter Service told the BBC that the first flight will land on 16 April, carrying 150 Romanian farm workers to Stansted.
The international carrier said the plane is the first of six to operate between April and June as growers warn that food would otherwise be left to “rot in the fields” if 70,000-plus positions are not filled when crops are ready.
Workers needed urgently
The Air Charter Service, a private firm, has already flown 1,000 farmers from Romania and Bulgaria to Germany in April.
Before flying from Iasi, eastern Romania, to the UK, workers will have their temperatures taken and carry out a health questionnaire, according to the BBC. Minibuses will take them from Stansted to farms in the South East and the Midlands.
Firms involved in chartering are reportedly working with Public Health England to ensure people’s safety and those arriving will be screened before leaving the airport. Those who display symptoms will be quarantined.
The Government is aware of private companies bringing in workers, but isn’t playing an active role in chartering flights. Instead, officials are hoping to encourage Britons to pitch in.
“We know the demand for seasonal agricultural workers will rise in the months ahead, which is why we are working hard with industry to ensure farmers and growers have the support they need ahead of this time,” a spokeswoman said in a statement to i.
Concerns over shortfalls
“We are encouraging as many people as possible to take part in seasonal working opportunities across the country to help bring the harvest in, and recruitment efforts by industry are well underway.”
Several UK growers have launched a recruitment drive and a number of firms have filled positions – but there remain concerns of serious shortfalls.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU), as well as food network Home Grown and others in the industry, have long been calling for a “land army” of UK workers.
Home Grown Founder James Patrick said to i previously: “When the lockdown happened and seasonal workers found themselves unable to come to Britain, there was talk of food rotting in the fields.
“We want to connect farmers with people who are able to work. We’re providing an open forum to help. We’re talking to industry groups to see how this can be done safely. Everyone needs to do their bit.”
NFU vice president Tom Bradshaw said: “Growers that rely on seasonal workers to grow, pick and pack our fresh fruit, veg and flowers are extremely concerned about the impact coronavirus restrictions may have on their ability to recruit this critical workforce this season.”
“In the meantime, I would encourage anyone who is interested in helping pick for Britain this summer to contact one of the approved agricultural recruiters.”


inews--2020-04-16--With air pollution down and nature thriving, it's time to think about which parts of the coronavirus

With air pollution down and nature thriving, it's time to think about which parts of the coronavirus lockdown we want to keep

With air pollution down and nature thriving , it 's time to think about which parts of the coronavirus lockdown we want to keep I took my one-year-old for her first bike ride recently which was made far more enjoyable by the lack of cars on the roads in Edinburgh Getting it all set up was a bit of a mission , admittedly .
By the time we 'd attached and adjusted her seat and fitted her helmet , it had started to rain .
That 's Scottish weather for you .
But when the clouds had cleared and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Our worries about hitting a speed bump too hard and launching her into the clear lockdown air proved to be unfounded .
These days , of course , any form of fresh air and exercise feels more precious than it used to before the virus came along and changed the way we live our lives .
But our ride through suburban Edinburgh was also made far more enjoyable by the lack of cars on usually busy roads .
The usual defensive tenseness that goes with being a city cyclist has lifted .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
Our daughter 's first birthday was celebrated indoors , a Zoom video call with family replacing the party we had carefully planned .
But once this is all over , would n't it be wonderful if we could hold on to some of the things that it has taught us about ourselves and how we usually live our lives ?
It has been widely documented that air pollution in cities across the UK has dived .
Were this to become normal , lives would be saved .
That would be one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the slow but steady return of nature to our cities , which has led to bizarre and amusing videos such as the one of wild goats roaming the streets of Llandudno in Wales .
The outbreak has led to declining air pollution ( Photo : Getty ) On my state-approved run this week , I was initially confused to see a man smiling with delight as he pointed his phone into an apparently empty field not far from where we live .
The source of his amazement was the sight of four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fence meets the road .
How many more similar experiences have there been around the country in the past few weeks ?
It has often been written that wars and other great tragedies through history can provide the spark for social change , inadvertently producing something good out of something terrible .
Perhaps everything will just go back to normal when all this is over .

My wife and I took our one-year-old daughter for her first bike ride recently.
Getting it all set up was a bit of a mission, admittedly. By the time we’d attached and adjusted her seat and fitted her helmet, it had started to rain. That’s Scottish weather for you.
But when the clouds had cleared and we set off, it was a delight. Our worries about hitting a speed bump too hard and launching her into the clear lockdown air proved to be unfounded.
These days, of course, any form of fresh air and exercise feels more precious than it used to before the virus came along and changed the way we live our lives.
But our ride through suburban Edinburgh was also made far more enjoyable by the lack of cars on usually busy roads. The usual defensive tenseness that goes with being a city cyclist has lifted.
The lockdown has brought challenges and sadness too. Our daughter’s first birthday was celebrated indoors, a Zoom video call with family replacing the party we had carefully planned.
But once this is all over, wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could hold on to some of the things that it has taught us about ourselves and how we usually live our lives?
It has been widely documented that air pollution in cities across the UK has dived. Were this to become normal, lives would be saved. That would be one coronavirus legacy worth leaving.
Then there is the slow but steady return of nature to our cities, which has led to bizarre and amusing videos such as the one of wild goats roaming the streets of Llandudno in Wales.
On my state-approved run this week, I was initially confused to see a man smiling with delight as he pointed his phone into an apparently empty field not far from where we live.
The source of his amazement was the sight of four deer wandering around close to where the fence meets the road.
How many more similar experiences have there been around the country in the past few weeks?
It has often been written that wars and other great tragedies through history can provide the spark for social change, inadvertently producing something good out of something terrible.
Perhaps everything will just go back to normal when all this is over.
But before then, it feels like a good time to think about which parts of the lockdown might be worth keeping.


inews--2020-04-16--NHS Charities Together: where your money actually goes when you donate to Captain Tom Moore or other

NHS Charities Together: where your money actually goes when you donate to Captain Tom Moore or other NHS fundraising appeals

NHS Charities Together : where your money actually goes when you donate to Captain Tom Moore or other NHS fundraising appeals NHS Charities Together gives £1m every day to the NHS Members of the public are carrying out a variety of challenges to raise money for the NHS , where staff are working tirelessly to treat patients with coronavirus and often risk their own health in the process .
From individuals who run 5km and then donate £5 , to the 99-year-old who has completed 100 laps of his garden with a walking frame and has so far raised more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money to show their appreciation of the National Health Service and its staff .
The Run for Heroes fundraising campaign , through Virgin Money Giving , asks people to run 5km , donate £5 to help NHS workers and then nominate five other people to do the same .
It has raised more than £2.5m so far , with people continuing to take part in the challenge .
According to the Virgin Money Giving page , the money goes to NHS Charities Together and will fund well-being packs for NHS staff and volunteers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , parking and accommodation for staff and volunteers .
What is NHS Charities Together ?
`` Collectively these charities give £1m every day to the NHS so that people can stay well for longer and get better faster , '' the organisation 's website reads , adding that the charities have funded projects , hospital medical equipment and pioneered research .
The charities also support the health and well-being of staff .
Another message of support for the NHS in Hurst Green in southern England ( Photo : AFP/Getty ) What is NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Brighter Futures , the charity for Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Swindon , says its work enhances the environment for patients and staff .
It also `` enables carers and staff caring for patients to benefit from education and facilities not normally available within the NHS funding and fund extra equipment and staffing to the Trust above the NHS funding envelope '' .
How is the NHS funded ?
What about Captain Tom Moore and his walking challenge ?

Members of the public are carrying out a variety of challenges to raise money for the NHS, where staff are working tirelessly to treat patients with coronavirus and often risk their own health in the process.
From individuals who run 5km and then donate £5, to the 99-year-old who has completed 100 laps of his garden with a walking frame and has so far raised more than £25m, many are using their money to show their appreciation of the National Health Service and its staff.
But where exactly do your donations go?
Run 5km, donate £5
The Run for Heroes fundraising campaign, through Virgin Money Giving, asks people to run 5km, donate £5 to help NHS workers and then nominate five other people to do the same. It has raised more than £2.5m so far, with people continuing to take part in the challenge.
According to the Virgin Money Giving page, the money goes to NHS Charities Together and will fund well-being packs for NHS staff and volunteers as well as the cost of travel, parking and accommodation for staff and volunteers.
What is NHS Charities Together?
NHS Charities Together is the membership organisation for more than 140 official NHS charities across the UK that help hospitals and patients. In total there are more than 250 NHS charities.
These charities are the legal way in which each NHS Trusts and health board can raise and distribute charitable funds for their hospitals and services, according to NHS Charities Together.
In a nutshell, the charities help the NHS do more than Government funding may stretch to cover.
“Collectively these charities give £1m every day to the NHS so that people can stay well for longer and get better faster,” the organisation’s website reads, adding that the charities have funded projects, hospital medical equipment and pioneered research. The charities also support the health and well-being of staff.
Last year the charities raised £457m.
NHS Charities Together brings together its individual members for nationwide fundraising campaigns, such as the NHS Big Tea, which celebrates the health services’ birthday.
Alternatively the public can donate to a specific NHS charity to help a particular hospital, ward or area of care.
What is NHS Charities Together doing for the coronavirus pandemic?
The organisation has created a new Covid-19 appeal on Virgin Money Giving.
Money will go towards funding well-being packs and gifts for staff and volunteers. This might include food deliveries, protein bars, snacks and refreshments or wash bags and overnight kits.
Some money may fund travel and parking costs, accommodation and volunteer expenses.
Longer term mental health support for NHS staff, volunteers, patients and their families may also be funded.
The Virgin Money Giving page says the money may support isolated patients “through providing devices to communicate with friends and family whilst in hospital or isolating” or helping patients to leave hospital quickly and safely.
NHS Charities Together’s Covid-19 appeal fulfils its core mission to fund grants to help NHS charities support the health and emotional well-being of staff and volunteers above what NHS funding can usually provide.
Brighter Futures, the charity for Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Swindon, says its work enhances the environment for patients and staff. It also “enables carers and staff caring for patients to benefit from education and facilities not normally available within the NHS funding and fund extra equipment and staffing to the Trust above the NHS funding envelope”.
How is the NHS funded?
The NHS is funded through taxes and National Insurance contributions.
It is believed to be the fifth largest employer in the world, with around 1.5 million employees. In 2018/19, nearly £115bn was spent on the NHS England budget. In 2020/21, spending is projected to go up to £130bn.
What about Captain Tom Moore and his walking challenge?
Captain Tom Moore, the war veteran who completed 100 laps of his garden with a walking frame, has so far raised more than £25m for NHS workers.
His Just Giving page states the money will be donated to NHS Charities Together.
Read More Captain Tom Moore completes 100 laps of his garden and raises over £14m for the NHS
Money raised from sales of the single We’ll Meet Again, by war time singer Dame Vera Lynn and mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins, will also go to NHS Charities Together.
Billionaire landowner and the Duke of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor, has donated an extra £10m to the UK’s coronavirus relief effort. It follows an initial donation of £2.5m in March.
A sum of £5m will help create a Family Fund within NHS Charities Together, while £3m will go to national medical research and development linked to the Covid-19 illness and £2m to charities providing frontline support to those suffering the greatest long-term economic and social impact.