inews--2020-05-06--Smoking and coronavirus: Official WHO and UK advice about cigarettes, after studies investigate whet

Smoking and coronavirus: Official WHO and UK advice about cigarettes, after studies investigate whether nicotine can prevent coronavirus

Smoking and coronavirus : Official WHO and UK advice about cigarettes , after studies investigate whether nicotine can prevent coronavirus Doctors in Wales have suggested nicotine helps to fight coronavirus and that patches might 'block ' the virus from entering people 's cells While boldly counter-intuitive , last week a group of researchers from Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital in Paris said that fewer people were hospitalised with Covid-19 who were regular smokers , compared to the general population .
Its credibility is further dented when considering a second study by a group in China , which said smokers are 14 times more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contracting the virus .
The studies are not conclusive ( Photo : Getty ) But some do not believe the French study is without merit .
A second piece of analysis conducted by the Pasteur Institute in France corroborated the claims and said smokers are `` four times less likely '' to develop severe symptoms .
Both follow suggestions by doctors in Wales that it is nicotine that helps to fight coronavirus and that patches might `` block '' the virus from entering people 's cells .
The treatment option is being considered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the British Medical Journal .
For now , however , the evidence to support such ideas is relatively limited and there is no medical advice telling people to use nicotine patches in order to limit the chance of becoming infected , or to fight off the virus in such an instance .
The institute in France said while there is a theory that nicotine could be a `` protective factor '' , it added : `` One should not forget that nicotine is a drug of abuse responsible for smoking addiction .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a serious danger for health . ''
Public Health England has said smokers are at greater risk of harm : `` Smoking tobacco is known to damage the lungs and airways causing a range of severe respiratory problems .
Speaking in the Commons on 18 March , in response to questions on the subject , Secretary of State for Health Matt Hancock said : `` It is abundantly clear from the research into previous coronaviruses that smoking makes the impact of a coronavirus worse.
” The BBC has also reported that government health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smoking and maintained it to be dangerous .
Authorities said it kills 75,000 people a year in the country .
The World Health Organisation has said smokers are more vulnerable and said smoking not only increases the risk of poor health , but raises the chance of transmission .
`` Smokers are likely to be more vulnerable to Covid-19 as the act of smoking means that fingers ( and possibly contaminated cigarettes ) are in contact with lips which increases the possibility of transmission of virus from hand to mouth , '' said @ @ @

A study has been made public that suggests smokers might be less susceptible to catching Covid-19 due to the drug nicotine.
While boldly counter-intuitive, last week a group of researchers from Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital in Paris said that fewer people were hospitalised with Covid-19 who were regular smokers, compared to the general population.
Given smoking has been widely proven to damage people’s respiratory health, which is what coronavirus attacks, the research defies logic.
Its credibility is further dented when considering a second study by a group in China, which said smokers are 14 times more likely to develop more severe symptoms after contracting the virus.
Early studies
But some do not believe the French study is without merit. A second piece of analysis conducted by the Pasteur Institute in France corroborated the claims and said smokers are “four times less likely” to develop severe symptoms.
Both follow suggestions by doctors in Wales that it is nicotine that helps to fight coronavirus and that patches might “block” the virus from entering people’s cells.
The treatment option is being considered by some physicians and has been published in the British Medical Journal.
For now, however, the evidence to support such ideas is relatively limited and there is no medical advice telling people to use nicotine patches in order to limit the chance of becoming infected, or to fight off the virus in such an instance.
Warnings against smoking
The institute in France said while there is a theory that nicotine could be a “protective factor”, it added: “One should not forget that nicotine is a drug of abuse responsible for smoking addiction. Smoking has severe pathological consequences and remains a serious danger for health.”
Public Health England has said smokers are at greater risk of harm: “Smoking tobacco is known to damage the lungs and airways causing a range of severe respiratory problems.
“The evidence clearly shows Covid-19 virus attacks the respiratory system, which explains why smokers are at greater risk.”
Speaking in the Commons on 18 March, in response to questions on the subject, Secretary of State for Health Matt Hancock said: “It is abundantly clear from the research into previous coronaviruses that smoking makes the impact of a coronavirus worse.”
The BBC has also reported that government health officials in France have also cautioned against smoking and maintained it to be dangerous. Authorities said it kills 75,000 people a year in the country.
WHO guidelines
The World Health Organisation has said smokers are more vulnerable and said smoking not only increases the risk of poor health, but raises the chance of transmission.
“Smokers are likely to be more vulnerable to Covid-19 as the act of smoking means that fingers (and possibly contaminated cigarettes) are in contact with lips which increases the possibility of transmission of virus from hand to mouth,” said a warning.
“Smokers may also already have lung disease or reduced lung capacity which would greatly increase risk of serious illness.
“Smoking products such as water pipes often involve the sharing of mouth pieces and hoses, which could facilitate the transmission of COVID-19 in communal and social settings.
“Conditions that increase oxygen needs or reduce the ability of the body to use it properly will put patients at higher risk of serious lung conditions such as pneumonia.”


inews--2020-05-06--When will gyms reopen? Latest on UK coronavirus lockdown closures as gymnasiums remain shut

When will gyms reopen ?
Latest on UK coronavirus lockdown closures as gymnasiums remain shut With the UK still under lockdown , many are wondering when shops , hairdressers , pubs and gyms could begin to reopen again , after restrictions were put in place on 23 March .
The government is currently planning ahead for the “ roadmap ” out of lockdown , which Boris Johnson is expected to reveal on Sunday 10 May .
While some countries , such as Czech Republic , are opening gyms up again this month , others like Italy are keeping them closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So what will the situation be in the UK ?
Here ’ s what you need to know .
The government hasn ’ t yet confirmed when gyms will be able to reopen , however health club chain PureGym has said that it is now working out how its facilities could be laid out to allow for social distancing , alongside capping member numbers .
He said : `` The right approach is a considered and careful opening , we will probably , when permitted by government , start by opening half a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when we 're confident that we have a model that 's safe and secure for members for the future.
” The PureGym website states : “ While we are closed , we will work hard to ensure your club is clean , safe , and ready for your return .
We are looking forward to welcoming you back.
” Fitness studio Barry 's Bootcamp also released a statement saying the company is `` unsure when we will be reopening but will continue to closely follow the advice of the government and local authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workouts for members .
Virgin Active will also inform customers when it will reopen clubs `` once it is safe to do so based on government advice '' .
Have gyms reopened in other European countries ?
In Italy , the country has entered into phase two of its exit out of lockdown .
Italians will now be able to travel within regions in order to visit relatives , provided that they wear masks .
In the Czech Republic , gyms and fitness centres will be open to the public next week , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be off limits .
What is the ‘ roadmap ’ out of lockdown ?
Leading his first Downing Street briefing since recovering from Covid-19 , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday ( 30 April ) : “ What you are going to get next week is really a road map , a menu of options .
“ The dates and times of each individual measure will be very much driven by where we are in the epidemic , what the data is really saying , and we are getting in a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the course of the next few days .
”

The coronavirus lockdown has changed people’s lives in many ways, but one of the biggest has been the way in which we exercise.
Gyms, leisure centres and indoor pools had all been closed since 21 March, while home workout equipment is like gold dust online.
However, the Government has finally given the go-ahead for gyms to open their doors again.
When did the gyms reopen?
Gyms, leisure centres and indoor pools reopened on Saturday 25 July.
They will have to follow strict new guidelines, such as introducing timed bookings for workouts and restrictions on showering.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said the move to reopen gyms would help get the country “match-fit to defeat the virus” amid growing fears of inactivity among the population due to social distancing restrictions.
“The reopening of gyms is the news millions across the country have been waiting for with many people desperate to jump on a spinning bike or dive into a pool,” he said.
“Our comprehensive guidance will ensure gyms, pools and leisure centres have the support they need to reopen safely for their customers and staff.”
In the Government’s Our Plan to Rebuild document, released on Monday 11 May, gyms and fitness studios were originally part of step three of the lockdown exit plan, starting from 4 July.
However, Mr Johnson later said indoor gyms are categorised as “close proximity” businesses and would remain shut.
He said: “The business and culture secretaries will establish task forces with public health experts and the sectors to help them become Covid-secure and reopen as soon as possible.”
The industry reacted with frustration at Mr Johnson’s “catastrophic decision” to give the green light to many sectors of the economy, but not gyms.
Mark Sesnan, managing director of GLL, which runs 270 leisure and sport facilities on behalf of local authorities, said: “This will bad for business, bad for jobs and bad for the health of the nation.”
He added: “The Government is ignoring the health of the nation, when it has been proven that conditions such as obesity and diabetes increase the risks associated with Covid-19.”
What safety measures will be in place?
When gyms reopen, it won’t be business as usual.
According to The Times, gyms and swimming pools will require receptionists to use clickers to count numbers going in, and booking systems will be put in place to prevent overcrowding.
On gym floors, people will only be permitted to use equipment that’s spaced two metres apart and a gym’s maximum capacity will be calculated based on three metres squared per person.
Changing rooms and showers will be in use but “extra care” will be provided to maintain social distancing in these areas, while sweat towels will not be permitted on gym floors or studios.
Health club chain PureGym has previously said that it is working out how its facilities could be laid out to allow for social distancing, alongside capping member numbers.
PureGym CEO Humphrey Cobbold, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that the chain was working to upgrade hygiene and sanitation procedures in order to “provide a safe environment for the future.”


inews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus in the UK: Jobs slump caused by pandemic could lead to record proportion of school leave

Coronavirus in the UK: Jobs slump caused by pandemic could lead to record proportion of school leavers applying to university

Coronavirus in the UK : Jobs slump caused by pandemic could lead to record proportion of school leavers applying to university Exclusive : Applications by school leavers , mature students , and graduates wishing to take postgraduate courses could rise this year A record proportion of young people in the UK could go to university this year , with school leavers opting for higher education rather than risking their chances in a labour market decimated by the coronavirus .
Applications by mature students and graduates wishing to take postgraduate courses are also set to rise , as older adults seek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused by Covid-19 .
However , the boost may not be enough to save some universities from financial peril , with predictions that large numbers of international students will stay away .
But he said the picture was likely to be very different for applications from home students , which “ if anything , might go up '' .
“ If you were leaving school this summer you ’ re not going to get a job frankly , ” he said .
“ If you were thinking you might go and get a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on and go to higher education.
” According to the university admissions service , Ucas , 568,330 people had applied by 15 January to start an undergraduate course at a UK university or college this year – an increase of 1.2 per cent from the same point in 2019 .
Separately , a survey by the careers service , Prospects , found that nearly half ( 47 per cent ) of final year students are now contemplating postgraduate study , as graduate job opportunities have dried up in the wake of the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in applications for courses which lead towards occupations which are perceived to be `` recession-proof '' , such as teaching .
Professor John Howson , a visiting professor at Oxford Brookes University , who is an expert in the teacher labour market , told i : “ Recessions are always good for the public sector in terms of recruitment.
” He said there had already been a “ dramatic increase ” in applications for teacher training courses in some subjects .
“ Come June it would not surprise me to see a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One lingering question is whether young people could be put off applying to university because of uncertainty about whether they will receive teaching in person come September .
However , in a Facebook Live event with students earlier this week , Clare Marchant , the chief executive of Ucas , said : “ It ’ s currently not something we ’ re seeing as a trend ” .
Mike Nicholson , director of undergraduate admissions at the University of Bath , said : “ For every call we ’ re getting from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in deferring , we ’ re actually getting one from a student who was due to come in 2021 ... and has now found that their plan has had to change .
”

A record proportion of young people in the UK could go to university this year, with school leavers opting for higher education rather than risking their chances in a labour market decimated by the coronavirus.
Applications by mature students and graduates wishing to take postgraduate courses are also set to rise, as older adults seek a safe haven amidst the economic turmoil caused by Covid-19.
However, the boost may not be enough to save some universities from financial peril, with predictions that large numbers of international students will stay away.
Nick Hillman, director of the Higher Education Policy Institute think-tank, told i that many universities were forecasting precipitous drops in foreign students.
Applications up
But he said the picture was likely to be very different for applications from home students, which “if anything, might go up”.
“If you were leaving school this summer you’re not going to get a job frankly,” he said. “If you were thinking you might go and get a job, you might as well stay on and go to higher education.”
According to the university admissions service, Ucas, 568,330 people had applied by 15 January to start an undergraduate course at a UK university or college this year – an increase of 1.2 per cent from the same point in 2019.
This is despite a contraction in the size of the 18-year-old population.
Jobs rescinded
A spokesman for Ucas told i that it was also expecting an increase in applications by mature students this year.
Separately, a survey by the careers service, Prospects, found that nearly half (47 per cent) of final year students are now contemplating postgraduate study, as graduate job opportunities have dried up in the wake of the pandemic.
The survey found that 28 per cent of final year students have had their graduate job offers deferred or rescinded.
There could be a marked rise in applications for courses which lead towards occupations which are perceived to be “recession-proof”, such as teaching.
Teacher training
Professor John Howson, a visiting professor at Oxford Brookes University, who is an expert in the teacher labour market, told i: “Recessions are always good for the public sector in terms of recruitment.”
He said there had already been a “dramatic increase” in applications for teacher training courses in some subjects. “Come June it would not surprise me to see a big surge in applications,” he added.
One lingering question is whether young people could be put off applying to university because of uncertainty about whether they will receive teaching in person come September.
Deferred places
However, in a Facebook Live event with students earlier this week, Clare Marchant, the chief executive of Ucas, said: “It’s currently not something we’re seeing as a trend”.
Mike Nicholson, director of undergraduate admissions at the University of Bath, said: “For every call we’re getting from a 2020 applicant who’s interested in deferring, we’re actually getting one from a student who was due to come in 2021… and has now found that their plan has had to change.”
“Either that chance to go travelling has fallen through, or the internship they were hoping to get isn’t there.”


inews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus shopping trends: Landline phones experience a revival as Britons seek to stay in touch

Coronavirus shopping trends : Landline phones experience a revival as Britons seek to stay in touch Home phones are tipped to become a more common sight as people spend less time out and about John Lewis said it witnessed a surge in landline sales as the nation prepared to go into lockdown ( Photo : Pixabay ) Landline phones have experienced something of a revival since the UK went into lockdown as Britons have sought to stay in touch with friends and family members living elsewhere .
Home phones have declined in popularity over the past decade , with growing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are now tipped to become a more common sight as people spend less time out and about due to the Covid-19 pandemic .
John Lewis said it witnessed a surge in landline sales as the nation prepared to go into lockdown , with demand rocketing by 80 per cent during the first week of restrictions .
Almost half ( 48 per cent ) of consumers surveyed said that they have been speaking more to relatives who do not live with them during lockdown .
A string of other products some might associate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a comeback , from haberdashery tools to postage stamps , sales figures released by the department store chain show .
The retailer said it witnessed “ unprecedented ” sales of haberdashery items in the six weeks from 24 March , with needlepoint sets , sewing machines , knitting yarn and crafting kits all in demand .
Sales of elastic shot up by 1,430 per cent compared to the same period in 2019 , a rise the chain attributed to the large number of Britons attempting to make their own face masks at home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of contracting the disease .
At Waitrose , which is owned by the John Lewis Partnership , postage stamps have sold at double their usual rate throughout lockdown , the company said .
Despite the online sales boost , John Lewis was struggling to keep its bricks and mortar outlets afloat long before the pandemic .
Currently all of its physical stores are closed as a result of the nationwide lockdown , and it is likely that some premises will remain shut once non-essential retailers are permitted to reopen .

Landline phones have experienced something of a revival since the UK went into lockdown as Britons have sought to stay in touch with friends and family members living elsewhere.
Home phones have declined in popularity over the past decade, with growing numbers of households going mobile-only, but they are now tipped to become a more common sight as people spend less time out and about due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
It’s good to talk
John Lewis said it witnessed a surge in landline sales as the nation prepared to go into lockdown, with demand rocketing by 80 per cent during the first week of restrictions. Almost half (48 per cent) of consumers surveyed said that they have been speaking more to relatives who do not live with them during lockdown.
A string of other products some might associate with a bygone era have also made a comeback, from haberdashery tools to postage stamps, sales figures released by the department store chain show.
The retailer said it witnessed “unprecedented” sales of haberdashery items in the six weeks from 24 March, with needlepoint sets, sewing machines, knitting yarn and crafting kits all in demand.
Sales of elastic shot up by 1,430 per cent compared to the same period in 2019, a rise the chain attributed to the large number of Britons attempting to make their own face masks at home in an effort to reduce their chances of contracting the disease.
John Lewis future shaky
At Waitrose, which is owned by the John Lewis Partnership, postage stamps have sold at double their usual rate throughout lockdown, the company said.
Despite the online sales boost, John Lewis was struggling to keep its bricks and mortar outlets afloat long before the pandemic.
Currently all of its physical stores are closed as a result of the nationwide lockdown, and it is likely that some premises will remain shut once non-essential retailers are permitted to reopen.
@kt_grant


inews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: BAME groups up to three times more likely to die from Covid-19

Coronavirus : BAME groups up to three times more likely to die from Covid-19 UCL analysis of NHS data supports need for the UK to take urgent action to reduce the risk of death from coronavirus for ethnic minorities Black and Minority Ethnic ( BAME ) groups are much more likely to die of Covid-19 than the general population , UCL researchers found ( Photo : NEIL HALL/POOL/AFP/Getty ) Black , Asian and Ethnic Minority ( BAME ) groups are up to three times more likely to die from Covid-19 than the general population , according to analysis of NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emerging global data and support the need for the UK Government to take urgent action to reduce the risk of death from coronavirus for ethnic minorities , researchers said .
The analysis , by University College London ( UCL ) scientists and published in Wellcome Open Research , used NHS data of patients with a positive Covid-19 test , who died in hospitals in England from March 1 to April 21 this year - which included data on age , region and ethnicity .
Using the Standardised Mortality Ratio ( SMR ) – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ study group to expected deaths in the general population - and after accounting for age and regional differences in BAME populations , researchers found the average risk of dying in hospital from Covid-19 was around two to three times higher for BAME groups in England , when compared to the general population .
For the study period , the NHS data showed the total number of people who had tested positive for Covid-19 and died was 16,272 .
Ethnicity was missing for just under 1 in 10 NHS England hospital deaths .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ethnic groups were Indian ( 492 deaths ) and Black Caribbean ( 460 deaths ) people .
Specifically , adjusting for age and region , the risk of death from Covid-19 for Black African groups was 3.24 times higher than the general population ; Pakistani was 3.29 times higher ; Bangladeshi was 2.41 times higher ; Black Caribbean was 2.21 times higher ; and Indian was 1.7 times higher .
In contrast , researchers found a lower risk of death from Covid-19 for white populations in England .
After accounting for region and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ White British was 12 per cent ( 0.88 times ) lower than that of the general population and White Irish was half ( 0.52 times ) lower .
Lead author Dr Rob Aldridge said : “ Our findings support an urgent need to take action to reduce the risk of death from Covid-19 for BAME groups .
Actions to reduce these inequities include ensuring an adequate income for everyone so that low paid and zero-hours contract workers can afford to follow social distancing recommendations , reducing occupational risks such as ensuring adequate PPE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barriers to accessing healthcare and providing culturally and linguistically appropriate public health communications.
” This week , Public Health England launched a rapid review to better understand how different factors such as ethnicity , deprivation , age , gender and obesity could impact on how people are affected by Covid-19 .
The review will also look at vulnerable groups such as people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping to understand how the virus affects them and their health outcomes .
Medics in Birmingham , one of the UK ’ s most diverse cities and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any outside London , are carrying out their own urgent investigation into how and why Covid-19 is disproportionately affecting BAME groups .
Figures from one trust in the region show 64 per cent of coronavirus deaths at Birmingham city hospital in March were from BAME communities , although it fell last month to 50 per cent .

Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority (BAME) groups are up to three times more likely to die from Covid-19 than the general population, according to analysis of NHS data.
The findings are consistent with emerging global data and support the need for the UK Government to take urgent action to reduce the risk of death from coronavirus for ethnic minorities, researchers said.
The analysis, by University College London (UCL) scientists and published in Wellcome Open Research, used NHS data of patients with a positive Covid-19 test, who died in hospitals in England from March 1 to April 21 this year – which included data on age, region and ethnicity.
Using the Standardised Mortality Ratio (SMR) – the ratio of observed deaths in the study group to expected deaths in the general population – and after accounting for age and regional differences in BAME populations, researchers found the average risk of dying in hospital from Covid-19 was around two to three times higher for BAME groups in England, when compared to the general population.
For the study period, the NHS data showed the total number of people who had tested positive for Covid-19 and died was 16,272. Ethnicity was missing for just under 1 in 10 NHS England hospital deaths. The largest total number of deaths in minority ethnic groups were Indian (492 deaths) and Black Caribbean (460 deaths) people.
Exact risk
Specifically, adjusting for age and region, the risk of death from Covid-19 for Black African groups was 3.24 times higher than the general population; Pakistani was 3.29 times higher; Bangladeshi was 2.41 times higher; Black Caribbean was 2.21 times higher; and Indian was 1.7 times higher.
In contrast, researchers found a lower risk of death from Covid-19 for white populations in England. After accounting for region and age, the risk of death for White British was 12 per cent (0.88 times) lower than that of the general population and White Irish was half (0.52 times) lower.
Lead author Dr Rob Aldridge said: “Our findings support an urgent need to take action to reduce the risk of death from Covid-19 for BAME groups. Actions to reduce these inequities include ensuring an adequate income for everyone so that low paid and zero-hours contract workers can afford to follow social distancing recommendations, reducing occupational risks such as ensuring adequate PPE [personal protective equipment], reducing barriers to accessing healthcare and providing culturally and linguistically appropriate public health communications.”
This week, Public Health England launched a rapid review to better understand how different factors such as ethnicity, deprivation, age, gender and obesity could impact on how people are affected by Covid-19. The review will also look at vulnerable groups such as people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping to understand how the virus affects them and their health outcomes.
Medics in Birmingham, one of the UK’s most diverse cities and which has suffered more coronavirus deaths than any outside London, are carrying out their own urgent investigation into how and why Covid-19 is disproportionately affecting BAME groups. Figures from one trust in the region show 64 per cent of coronavirus deaths at Birmingham city hospital in March were from BAME communities, although it fell last month to 50 per cent.


inews--2020-05-06--VE Day: 75th anniversary is a chance to remember the sacrifice of war and the relief of victory

VE Day : 75th anniversary is a chance to remember the sacrifice of war and the relief of victory Celebrations likely to be the last major anniversary where combat veterans and those who served on the Home Front can still participate The 94-year-old , who like other veterans and the rest of the nation will commemorate and celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day from his Essex home on Friday , had been separated from his brother when he was captured as they both fought on the battlefields of Normandy in 1944 .
Ken , from Upminster , Essex , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to Britain the week before victory was declared , recalled this week : “ I turned around and there was my brother running down the road to get home and he had spotted us .
“ We just threw our arms around each other .
The last time I ’ d seen him was out in a field in Normandy , when I got captured and he got back .
I didn ’ t know he ’ d got back .
He was always my hero ...
I think we cried.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ felt by Ken and so many others on that rain-spattered day of 8 May 1945 will be felt anew on Friday as the world marks the passing of three quarters of a century since victory was formally declared over Hitler ’ s Nazi war machine .
It will not be the celebration that was planned .
Street parties and marches , not least by the remaining veterans themselves , will be replaced with lockdown tea parties and a national doorstep rendition of We ’ ll Meet Again as Britain continues to seek to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It will be , however , no less of a memorable and binding opportunity to celebrate the defeat of fascism by Allied powers led by Britain , America and the Soviet Union , and remember the grim price of victory that was the sacrifice of so many lives .
The Queen attends the Remembrance Sunday ceremony at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in central London last year ( Photo : TOLGA AKMEN/AFP/Getty ) The two-minute silence at 11am on Friday will provide a pause which the Royal British Legion has pointed out there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Whether it be from a window , a front door or anywhere else , the veterans charity said it hoped for a “ national moment of reflection ” .
The significance of “ VE 75 ” lies also in the sombre reality that when the centenary of the end of the Second World War in Europe is eventually marked , it is unlikely to be with anyone who fought in uniform or served on the Home Front still alive .
Despite being the culmination of what must have seemed an improbable triumph @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Blitz , VE Day has not traditionally occupied the same place in Britain ’ s collective wartime memory as the adversity of Dunkirk or the military tour de force of D-Day .
Dr Robert James , senior lecturer in social and cultural history at the University of Portsmouth , said : “ It was seen as both an end and a beginning .
The end of the war signalled the end of the conflict in Europe at least .
But also a new beginning for European society and particularly for British society @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it signalled - that we won ’ t go back to the dark days pre-war , it ’ s now going to be a new , better society.
” For all this is true , the celebrations of the day were no less heartfelt and the joy no less unbridled as millions took to the streets and vast crowds cheered Sir Winston Churchill and the Royal Family during their respective appearances in the capital .

Ken Hay remembers vividly the moment when, 75 years ago on Friday, he heard footsteps rushing up behind him as he returned from church on Victory in Europe Day.
The 94-year-old, who like other veterans and the rest of the nation will commemorate and celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day from his Essex home on Friday, had been separated from his brother when he was captured as they both fought on the battlefields of Normandy in 1944.
Ken, from Upminster, Essex, who had been released in time to return to Britain the week before victory was declared, recalled this week: “I turned around and there was my brother running down the road to get home and he had spotted us.
“We just threw our arms around each other. The last time I’d seen him was out in a field in Normandy, when I got captured and he got back. I didn’t know he’d got back. He was always my hero… I think we cried.”
Joy and relief felt anew
The echoes of the joy and relief felt by Ken and so many others on that rain-spattered day of 8 May 1945 will be felt anew on Friday as the world marks the passing of three quarters of a century since victory was formally declared over Hitler’s Nazi war machine.
It will not be the celebration that was planned. Street parties and marches, not least by the remaining veterans themselves, will be replaced with lockdown tea parties and a national doorstep rendition of We’ll Meet Again as Britain continues to seek to win its contemporary battle with Covid-19.
It will be, however, no less of a memorable and binding opportunity to celebrate the defeat of fascism by Allied powers led by Britain, America and the Soviet Union, and remember the grim price of victory that was the sacrifice of so many lives.
‘National moment of reflection’
The two-minute silence at 11am on Friday will provide a pause which the Royal British Legion has pointed out there is no right or wrong way to observe. Whether it be from a window, a front door or anywhere else, the veterans charity said it hoped for a “national moment of reflection”.
The significance of “VE 75” lies also in the sombre reality that when the centenary of the end of the Second World War in Europe is eventually marked, it is unlikely to be with anyone who fought in uniform or served on the Home Front still alive.
Despite being the culmination of what must have seemed an improbable triumph in the dark days of Dunkirk or the Blitz, VE Day has not traditionally occupied the same place in Britain’s collective wartime memory as the adversity of Dunkirk or the military tour de force of D-Day.
Start of peace
Historians argue this is because VE Day serves a different purpose – marking not only the conclusion of battle but also the start of peacetime.
Dr Robert James, senior lecturer in social and cultural history at the University of Portsmouth, said: “It was seen as both an end and a beginning. The end of the war signalled the end of the conflict in Europe at least. But also a new beginning for European society and particularly for British society.
“It was this new beginning that it signalled – that we won’t go back to the dark days pre-war, it’s now going to be a new, better society.”
‘Fathers, sons, brothers would return home safely’
For all this is true, the celebrations of the day were no less heartfelt and the joy no less unbridled as millions took to the streets and vast crowds cheered Sir Winston Churchill and the Royal Family during their respective appearances in the capital.
But through it all was the sense of release felt by millions – from Ken Hay to John Warner, who on VE Day was a ten-year-old boy on the streets of south east London.
Mr Warner, from Shepperton, Surrey, said: “The greatest feeling was of relief. No more bombs to kill us. Fathers, sons, brothers would return home safely.”


inews--2020-05-06--'Everyone was so happy': VE Day veterans recall celebrations ahead of 75th anniversary

'Everyone was so happy ' : VE Day veterans recall celebrations ahead of 75th anniversary The UK is preparing to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe “ It was marvellous .
However , by the time I got home , it was pretty late and I had had a few drinks and my parents were waiting up for me wondering where I had been.
” Ms Morris said she got back so late that she even missed the arrival of her then fiancé John – whom she later married – after he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her .
“ He had come to my house and waited all day until he got fed up and went to bed , ” she recalls .
“ However , the next day he forgave me and we went out to celebrate together.
” Betty Morris , who worked in a munitions factory , said the VE Day celebrations were 'marvellous ' ( Photo : Royal British Legion ) “ We would have an early start so there was no time for breakfast , but my mother always made me sandwiches for lunch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jam , ” she says .
“ They were very long days , but I loved working to the music on the radio and when I went home we would always have a hot meal and there was always something on the table to feed the whole family .
“ Most of us girls also used to put our hair in curlers as there was no time to do our hair in the mornings and cover it with a turban , then at lunch we would all do each other ’ s hair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ At the end of my run at the factory I was on £3 a week and would give half to my mother and keep the rest for going to the dance halls and the picture houses .
“ I knew the foxtrot and the waltz and loved going out dancing .
I think I can still remember the steps , but I ’ m not sure my body would do the moves now.
” For Robert Garner , known as Bob , one of his “ proudest ” moments was seeing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the VE Day victory parade through central London .
Robert Garner did not even know the war was over he was informed he would be joining the victory parade ( Photo : Royal British Legion ) After being shot in the throat , Mr Garner spent several weeks in hospital and he was back at base in Bury St Edmunds when he learned the war was over .
He says he was not even aware the Allies had won when he was told he was going to London to join the victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pictured with comrades in his Army uniform ( Photo : Royal British Legion )

As the nation prepares to celebrate 75 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe, veterans have been sharing their memories VE Day.
i teamed up with the Royal British Legion to hear from those who were there and their experiences of the war.
Betty Morris, 94, can still remember the “jubilant” atmosphere when she went out celebrating with friends in the West Midlands town of Oldbury.
“I partied all day, dancing, drinking and enjoying the atmosphere around us,” she recalls of the VE Day festivities.
“Everyone was so happy and jubilant and I remember a lot of bonfires lighting up the town centre and people dancing around them.
“It was marvellous. However, by the time I got home, it was pretty late and I had had a few drinks and my parents were waiting up for me wondering where I had been.”
Jubilant scenes
Ms Morris said she got back so late that she even missed the arrival of her then fiancé John – whom she later married – after he came back on leave early to surprise her.
“He had come to my house and waited all day until he got fed up and went to bed,” she recalls. “However, the next day he forgave me and we went out to celebrate together.”
Ms Morris was 14 when the Second World War got under way and she started working in September 1939 after leaving school.
Two years later she moved to a munitions factory where she packed bullet cases, later moving on to a team of four women who worked on the furnaces.
“We would have an early start so there was no time for breakfast, but my mother always made me sandwiches for lunch which was usually bread and butter or jam,” she says.
“They were very long days, but I loved working to the music on the radio and when I went home we would always have a hot meal and there was always something on the table to feed the whole family.
“Most of us girls also used to put our hair in curlers as there was no time to do our hair in the mornings and cover it with a turban, then at lunch we would all do each other’s hair ready for going out that night.
“At the end of my run at the factory I was on £3 a week and would give half to my mother and keep the rest for going to the dance halls and the picture houses.
“I knew the foxtrot and the waltz and loved going out dancing. I think I can still remember the steps, but I’m not sure my body would do the moves now.”
Victory parade
For Robert Garner, known as Bob, one of his “proudest” moments was seeing the future Queen Elizabeth as he took part in the VE Day victory parade through central London.
Mr Garner, 94, joined the Suffolk Regiment and was deployed in the July after D-Day, with his regiment on standby as reserves near Southampton.
After his battalion sustained heavy losses, he headed across the Channel and landed on Sword beach before fighting across Arromanches and Bayeux as a rifleman.
After being shot in the throat, Mr Garner spent several weeks in hospital and he was back at base in Bury St Edmunds when he learned the war was over.
He says he was not even aware the Allies had won when he was told he was going to London to join the victory parade.
It was when he was near Regent’s Park that Mr Garner remembers seeing Princess Elizabeth.
“We all waved. They were all going to whistle and I said, ‘Don’t do that, we’ll get into trouble’. But she waved back at us.
“We realised who it was because she was tall and elegant… She’s been a beautiful Queen. It was one of my proudest moments.”
As the world contends with coronavirus, Mr Garner believes it is vital that everyone sticks to the rules to get through it.
“We fought for the country, we got it right and we don’t want to lose it through silly means and people not behaving.”


inews--2020-05-06--VE Day 2020: Queen to address the nation at 9pm in highly personal broadcast

VE Day 2020 : Queen to address the nation at 9pm in highly personal broadcast Monarch to speak of significance of anniversary in broadcast at 9pm — the exact moment her father King George VI gave radio address in 1945 '' Let us remember those who will not come back , their constancy and courage in battle , their sacrifice and endurance in the face of a merciless enemy , '' the King said in an emotional address .
King George had famously visited east London with the Queen Mother to see with his eyes the devastation caused by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morale during the blitz and throughout the war .
Prince Charles will also read an extract of his grandfather 's diary from 8 May 1945 .
The entry describes several events that took place on the momentous day , including the Royal Family ’ s iconic Buckingham Palace balcony appearances .
British Prime Minister Winston Churchill ( 1874 - 1965 ) waving to crowds gathered in Whitehall on VE Day , 8th May 1945 ( Photo : Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty ) Winston Churchill ’ s famous victory speech will also be broadcast on Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programmes on the BBC .
Waving to the crowds from the Ministry of Health balcony , the Prime Minister said .
“ My dear friends , this is your hour .
This is not victory of a party or of any class .
It 's a victory of the great British nation as a whole . ''
However , Churchill was aware of the difficulties that lay ahead following the extraordinary cost the war had taken on the country .
`` We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing , but let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toils and efforts that lie ahead , '' he said .
In line with government guidance , the original plans for the day , which included a veteran procession , have had to be adjusted .
Members of the Royal Family , along with the Prime Minister and the Culture Secretary , Oliver Dowden , will take part in video calls with Second World War veterans instead .
The veterans will also receive calls from NHS Volunteer Responders .
A national moment of remembrance will take place with a two minute silence as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mark the occasion at home .
Bruno Peek , VE Day 75 pageantmaster , told i .
`` At 3pm , the nation will be asked to raise a glass to toast the heroes of World War II - men , women , children wherever they are .
We 're not asking people to raise a glass of alcohol so everyone , all people , faiths and creeds , can join in . ''
Mr Dowden said : `` We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to the greatest generation that served in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Second World War .
Whilst we now need to celebrate VE 75 in our homes and on our doorsteps , rather than in parades and street parties , I know the nation will come together to mark this historic occasion .
`` In these difficult times , acts of remembrance are even more poignant and I am sure that millions will want to join me to remember and give thanks to those who gave so much to secure peace , freedom and prosperity in Europe . ''

The Queen will describe the personal significance of VE Day 75 years on in a highly personal address to the nation from Windsor Castle on Friday to be broadcast at 9pm – the same time her father, King George VI, gave a radio address in 1945.
“Let us remember those who will not come back, their constancy and courage in battle, their sacrifice and endurance in the face of a merciless enemy,” the King said in an emotional address. King George had famously visited east London with the Queen Mother to see with his eyes the devastation caused by the German raids, which boosted Briton’s morale during the blitz and throughout the war.
Prince Charles will also read an extract of his grandfather’s diary from 8 May 1945. The entry describes several events that took place on the momentous day, including the Royal Family’s iconic Buckingham Palace balcony appearances.
Winston Churchill’s famous victory speech will also be broadcast on Friday as part of a special set of programmes on the BBC. Waving to the crowds from the Ministry of Health balcony, the Prime Minister said. “My dear friends, this is your hour. This is not victory of a party or of any class. It’s a victory of the great British nation as a whole.”
However, Churchill was aware of the difficulties that lay ahead following the extraordinary cost the war had taken on the country. “We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing, but let us not forget for a moment the toils and efforts that lie ahead,” he said.
Video calls with veterans
In line with government guidance, the original plans for the day, which included a veteran procession, have had to be adjusted. Members of the Royal Family, along with the Prime Minister and the Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, will take part in video calls with Second World War veterans instead. The veterans will also receive calls from NHS Volunteer Responders.
A national moment of remembrance will take place with a two minute silence as Mr Dowden calls on the public to mark the occasion at home. Bruno Peek, VE Day 75 pageantmaster, told i.”At 3pm, the nation will be asked to raise a glass to toast the heroes of World War II – men, women, children wherever they are. We’re not asking people to raise a glass of alcohol so everyone, all people, faiths and creeds, can join in.”
Mr Dowden said: “We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to the greatest generation that served in combat and on the home front during the Second World War. Whilst we now need to celebrate VE 75 in our homes and on our doorsteps, rather than in parades and street parties, I know the nation will come together to mark this historic occasion.
“In these difficult times, acts of remembrance are even more poignant and I am sure that millions will want to join me to remember and give thanks to those who gave so much to secure peace, freedom and prosperity in Europe.”


inews--2020-05-06--Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience, BBC2, review: the comedian, the care home and the case of the ‘wrink

Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience, BBC2, review: the comedian, the care home and the case of the ‘wrinkled racketeer’

Rhod Gilbert ’ s Work Experience , BBC2 , review : the comedian , the care home and the case of the ‘ wrinkled racketeer ’ Gilbert 's arch tone initially grated but it was ultimately a joy to see the comedian treat everyone like old chums , rather than patients It might have seemed like a slice of good fortune that , for the first episode of the new series of Rhod Gilbert ’ s Work Experience , the Welsh comic would try his hand at being a carer .
We appreciate carers at the moment .
We stand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every Thursday .
So there could hardly be a better time to find out more about the challenges they face .
Things didn ’ t quite work out like this , or at least not to start with .
Gilbert ’ s arch tone and jokes about bottoms were jarring , even a little patronising , given the current circumstances .
“ These two had got more pensioners ready than Wayne Rooney ’ s fluffer , ” he said , as he learnt some of the basics from two experienced carers .
Not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forgive , since this was recorded before the coronavirus crisis .
Still , maybe another trip to the editing suite would have been sensible .
Comic relief : Gilbert built up a good rapport with people at the care home ( Photo : BBC ) Gilbert was much better when interacting with the elderly or vulnerable people in his care .
It was a joy to see him gently ribbing Anna , who is disabled after falling down the stairs .
“ Pissed ?
” asked Gilbert .
“ No I wasn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was early in the morning.
” Gilbert treated everyone like old chums , rather than patients .
So much better than endless tears and pity .
That , surely , is the last thing someone like Betty – or the “ wrinkled racketeer ” , as Gilbert called her after losing a game of Connect 4 – would want .
In a funny sort of way , Gilbert ’ s initial laissez-faire approach to some of the practical elements of the job actually underlined what this programme was trying to say .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ wiping of bottoms but it is really about human connection .
“ Get to know them as the people that they are , ” advised the care home owner .
Gilbert was pretty good at that bit .
He gave Betty a spin in her wheelchair and concluded that being a carer “ would be the most rewarding job you could ever do ” .
All right then , no harm in a few tears , I suppose .

Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience, BBC2, 10pm ★★★
It might have seemed like a slice of good fortune that, for the first episode of the new series of Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience, the Welsh comic would try his hand at being a carer. We appreciate carers at the moment. We stand on the street and clap for them every Thursday. So there could hardly be a better time to find out more about the challenges they face.
Things didn’t quite work out like this, or at least not to start with. Gilbert’s arch tone and jokes about bottoms were jarring, even a little patronising, given the current circumstances. “These two had got more pensioners ready than Wayne Rooney’s fluffer,” he said, as he learnt some of the basics from two experienced carers. Not a bad line and easy enough to forgive, since this was recorded before the coronavirus crisis. Still, maybe another trip to the editing suite would have been sensible.
Gilbert was much better when interacting with the elderly or vulnerable people in his care. It was a joy to see him gently ribbing Anna, who is disabled after falling down the stairs. “Pissed?” asked Gilbert. “No I wasn’t,” laughed Anna. “It was early in the morning.”
Gilbert treated everyone like old chums, rather than patients. So much better than endless tears and pity. That, surely, is the last thing someone like Betty – or the “wrinkled racketeer”, as Gilbert called her after losing a game of Connect 4 – would want.
In a funny sort of way, Gilbert’s initial laissez-faire approach to some of the practical elements of the job actually underlined what this programme was trying to say. Yes, being a carer involves some wiping of bottoms but it is really about human connection. “Get to know them as the people that they are,” advised the care home owner.
Gilbert was pretty good at that bit. He gave Betty a spin in her wheelchair and concluded that being a carer “would be the most rewarding job you could ever do”. Alright then, no harm in a few tears, I suppose.


inews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus testing latest: Boris Johnson vows 200,000 tests a day capacity despite dip in numbers

The Labour leader raised concerns about how the number of tests has 'fallen back ' , warning the new 200,000 object was not enough Boris Johnson has vowed to increase the UK ’ s Covid-19 test capacity to 200,000 a day despite official figures showing the number of tests being carried has fallen to less than a third of his new target .
The most up to date testing statistics showed just 69,463 tests were undertaken on Tuesday , a fall of 43 per cent on Thursday ’ s high when the Government provided more than 122,000 tests .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has fallen in a row , has prompted serious questions about the Government ’ s ability to sustain its objective to carry out 100,000 tests every day .
Labour ’ s Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth demanded ministers “ need to explain why the number of tests being completed daily is falling rather than rising ” .
It came after Mr Johnson used his first Prime Minister ’ s Questions since 25 March to tell MPs the Government would deliver 200,000 tests a day by the end of May as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the disease .
The comments appeared to be greeted by a shake of the head from Health Secretary Matt Hancock .
Downing Street was quick to spell out that the plan is to increase capacity to 200,000 , not tests carried as was the case for Mr Hancock ’ s previous objective .
Responding to questions from his opposite number , Sir Keir Starmer , Mr Johnson told the Commons : “ [ Sir Keir is ] right that capacity currently exceeds demand , we ’ re working on that , we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the ambition clearly is to get up to 200,000 a day by the end of this month and then to go even higher .
“ And as he knows , and the whole House will know , a fantastic testing regime is going to be absolutely critical to our long-term economic recovery.
” The Labour leader raised concerns about how the number of tests has “ fallen back ” , warning the new 200,000 object was not enough , adding : “ Just having a target isn ’ t a strategy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokeswoman Munira Wilson echoed the Labour leader ’ s comments , insisting the new commitment to offer 200,000 tests must be accompanied by a “ proper strategy and must not be a headline chasing PR stunt ” .
`` Rather than setting another arbitrary target , we need a clear plan that sets out how widespread community testing will be scaled up and easily accessible to all who need it , ” she added .
In March , the Prime Minister declared the UK would reach a capacity of 250,000 tests a day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ timescale on the figure and that included as yet unused mass antibody testing .

Boris Johnson has vowed to increase the UK’s Covid-19 test capacity to 200,000 a day despite official figures showing the number of tests being carried has fallen to less than a third of his new target.
The most up to date testing statistics showed just 69,463 tests were undertaken on Tuesday, a fall of 43 per cent on Thursday’s high when the Government provided more than 122,000 tests.
The drop in testing, the fourth day it has fallen in a row, has prompted serious questions about the Government’s ability to sustain its objective to carry out 100,000 tests every day.
Tests numbers falling
Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth demanded ministers “need to explain why the number of tests being completed daily is falling rather than rising”.
It came after Mr Johnson used his first Prime Minister’s Questions since 25 March to tell MPs the Government would deliver 200,000 tests a day by the end of May as part of its efforts to control the spread of the disease.
The comments appeared to be greeted by a shake of the head from Health Secretary Matt Hancock. Downing Street was quick to spell out that the plan is to increase capacity to 200,000, not tests carried as was the case for Mr Hancock’s previous objective.
Responding to questions from his opposite number, Sir Keir Starmer, Mr Johnson told the Commons: “[Sir Keir is] right that capacity currently exceeds demand, we’re working on that, we’re running at about 100,000 a day, but the ambition clearly is to get up to 200,000 a day by the end of this month and then to go even higher.
“And as he knows, and the whole House will know, a fantastic testing regime is going to be absolutely critical to our long-term economic recovery.”
The Labour leader raised concerns about how the number of tests has “fallen back”, warning the new 200,000 object was not enough, adding: “Just having a target isn’t a strategy”.
“What is needed is testing, tracing and isolation. That is the strategy,” he added.
PR stunt
The Liberal Democrats’ health spokeswoman Munira Wilson echoed the Labour leader’s comments, insisting the new commitment to offer 200,000 tests must be accompanied by a “proper strategy and must not be a headline chasing PR stunt”.
“Rather than setting another arbitrary target, we need a clear plan that sets out how widespread community testing will be scaled up and easily accessible to all who need it,” she added.
In March, the Prime Minister declared the UK would reach a capacity of 250,000 tests a day, although he declined to put a timescale on the figure and that included as yet unused mass antibody testing.


inews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus latest: Week by week, how the Covid-19 epidemic in care homes left thousands dead — desp

Coronavirus latest: Week by week, how the Covid-19 epidemic in care homes left thousands dead — despite warnings in January

Coronavirus latest : Week by week , how the Covid-19 epidemic in care homes left thousands dead — despite warnings in January Boris Johnson has told Parliament he 'bitterly regrets ' the death toll in care homes An epidemic of Covid-19 has been allowed to flourish in care homes despite warnings as far back as January that the sector was particularly vulnerable to the disease .
The Government ’ s own data has revealed that there were no care home deaths attributed to coronavirus when the UK went into lockdown at the end of March , yet a failure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and residents , as well as an official order allowing Covid-positive patients to be discharged from hospitals into care homes , appears to have contributed to the deaths of thousands of vulnerable elderly people by the end of April .
Figures show that the peak of deaths in care homes came two weeks after the peak in hospitals in the middle of April , suggesting there were missed opportunities to protect residents and staff at the end of March when the lockdown was implemented .
Burlington Court Care Home in Glasgow is among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Getty ) Boris Johnson told Parliament that he “ bitterly regrets ” the “ epidemic ” of coronavirus in care homes , while Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the Government had “ worked very hard to protect people in care homes ” “ from the start ” .
But ministers were given repeated warnings that the care sector was vulnerable , including by the Government ’ s own emergency group of advisers , more than three months ago .
Yet on 25 February Public Health England issued advice saying it “ remains very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care home or the community will become infected ” with coronavirus .
On 12 March , former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt , now chairman of the health select committee , called for a nationwide ban on external visits to care homes , which was not introduced until the nationwide lockdown 11 days later .
On the same day , the Government switched focus from testing in the community to hospitals , while only sample testing was carried out in some care home settings .
In the middle of March , the NHS issued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals back to the community , including care homes , to free up space and allow the NHS to operate within capacity - one of the key planks of the government ’ s coronavirus strategy .
On 25 March , in response to a question from the Labour MP Peter Kyle , the PM said care home testing would be rolled out “ as soon as we possibly can ” while PPE would be delivered “ by the end of this week ” .
Significantly , on 2 April , the Department for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for patients being discharged from hospital , “ negative tests are not required prior to transfers/admissions into the care home ” .
On 5 April , i asked Jenny Harries , England ’ s deputy chief medical officer , when blanket testing would be introduced in care homes .
Dr Harries would say only that there was sample testing of up to five people per care home setting .
On 15 April , it was announced that care home residents and staff could be tested if they had symptoms .
This was not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regardless or not whether they had symptoms , until 28 April .
This week the Department of Health said while patients who had tested positive for coronavirus would continue to be discharged into care homes , they would now be notified so they could take action .
Shadow Care Minister Liz Kendall said : “ The Prime Minister says he ‘ bitterly regrets ’ the crisis in care homes , but the warning signs of this unfolding tragedy have been there for many weeks .

An epidemic of Covid-19 has been allowed to flourish in care homes despite warnings as far back as January that the sector was particularly vulnerable to the disease.
The Government’s own data has revealed that there were no care home deaths attributed to coronavirus when the UK went into lockdown at the end of March, yet a failure to introduce widespread testing and PPE for staff and residents, as well as an official order allowing Covid-positive patients to be discharged from hospitals into care homes, appears to have contributed to the deaths of thousands of vulnerable elderly people by the end of April.
Figures show that the peak of deaths in care homes came two weeks after the peak in hospitals in the middle of April, suggesting there were missed opportunities to protect residents and staff at the end of March when the lockdown was implemented.
On Tuesday, the Government issued figures showing the steep rise in care home deaths in April. In the week ending 17 April, 3,390 people died from Covid in care homes, rising to 5,890 for following week.
‘Worked very hard’
Boris Johnson told Parliament that he “bitterly regrets” the “epidemic” of coronavirus in care homes, while Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the Government had “worked very hard to protect people in care homes” “from the start”.
But ministers were given repeated warnings that the care sector was vulnerable, including by the Government’s own emergency group of advisers, more than three months ago.
The scientific advisory group on emergencies (Sage) began meeting to discuss coronavirus on 22 January, and the issue of care homes being vulnerable was “flagged” “very early on”, according to a briefing chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance gave last week.
Yet on 25 February Public Health England issued advice saying it “remains very unlikely that people receiving care in a care home or the community will become infected” with coronavirus.
On 3 March, the Government’s own coronavirus action plan said that “health and social care services will work together to support early discharge from hospital”.
Call for a ban on visitors
On 12 March, former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt, now chairman of the health select committee, called for a nationwide ban on external visits to care homes, which was not introduced until the nationwide lockdown 11 days later.
On the same day, the Government switched focus from testing in the community to hospitals, while only sample testing was carried out in some care home settings.
In the middle of March, the NHS issued an order to transfer 15,000 patients from hospitals back to the community, including care homes, to free up space and allow the NHS to operate within capacity – one of the key planks of the government’s coronavirus strategy.
On 25 March, in response to a question from the Labour MP Peter Kyle, the PM said care home testing would be rolled out “as soon as we possibly can” while PPE would be delivered “by the end of this week”.
Sample testing
Significantly, on 2 April, the Department for Health issued a guidance note saying that for patients being discharged from hospital, “negative tests are not required prior to transfers/admissions into the care home”.
On 5 April, i asked Jenny Harries, England’s deputy chief medical officer, when blanket testing would be introduced in care homes. Dr Harries would say only that there was sample testing of up to five people per care home setting.
On 15 April, it was announced that care home residents and staff could be tested if they had symptoms. This was not extended to all residents and staff, regardless or not whether they had symptoms, until 28 April.
At PMQs, Mr Johnson claimed that care home deaths were now coming down, but the government was unable to provide figures showing the death rate had slowed.
This week the Department of Health said while patients who had tested positive for coronavirus would continue to be discharged into care homes, they would now be notified so they could take action.
‘Unfolding tragedy’
Shadow Care Minister Liz Kendall said: “The Prime Minister says he ‘bitterly regrets’ the crisis in care homes, but the warning signs of this unfolding tragedy have been there for many weeks.
“Boris Johnson was warned about the lack of testing and PPE at the last PMQs he did, six weeks ago.”
Nuffield Trust chief executive Nigel Edwards said: “Serious questions should be asked about the timing and effectiveness of Government’s social care response.
“The government was reportedly warned in January that the social care sector was at particular risk from the effects of this virus. This reality, coupled with structural, funding and staffing problems significantly pre-dating Covid-19, have created the tragedy we see today in care homes.”


inews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus and exercise kit: Best fitness and running gear for staying active

Coronavirus and exercise kit : Best fitness and running gear for staying active From running pouches to the right trainers , the right equipment will improve your exercise Whether you 're a seasoned gym-goer or getting into fitness for the first time , social distancing measures and lockdown has proved challenging in terms of staying fit and healthy when we 're not allowed to spend prolonged amounts of time outside .
Whether you 're exercising from the comfort of your own home or using your hour of state-sanctioned outdoors time to go running , having the right gear will make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Kalenji 's running belt for your phone is great value for money ( Photo : Decathlon ) The clip-fastened strap is adjustable , allowing you to fasten it high on your ribcage or lower on your stomach depending on which you prefer , and there 's even room for your keys and headphone case in the pouch .
Decathlon does a great range of cheap weights to work out at home ( Photo : Decathlon ) While dumbbells are still in short supply , Decathlon is re-stocking its weights online intermittently .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sports equipment , makes high-quality , low-cost weights that are simple to store and are prevented from rolling around thanks to their angled sides .
Fitbit 's new Charge 4 closely resembles its predecessor , the Charge 3 ( Photo : Fitbit ) The new device sports inbuilt-GPS and control over Spotify , meaning you wo n't have to rely on your phone or headphones to skip or replay tracks .
Its software is intuitive and easy to use , its sleep tracking is excellent and its new Active Zone Minutes feature is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workouts you 're likely to find most beneficial .
Each type of workout is supplemented with supporting cool-downs and stretches , and you 're given a choice of programmes to follow , including the standard BBG ( formerly known as bikini body guide ) , the weight-focused BBG Stronger , the equipment-heavy PWR and yoga-based Body and Mind .
All the programmes have recently been overhauled to make them easier to complete at home away from gym equipment , and if you 're in two minds about committing to paying for Sweat long-term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trial .
Starwood Sports ' foam roller is inexpensive and does the job ( Photo : Starwood Sports ) Resistance bands are an inexpensive and lightweight way to build muscle strength by increasing resistance in both upper and lower body exercises : you 'll definitely notice the difference between doing a set of squats with and without out .
It 's worth investing in decent quality bands , as cheaper rubber loops tend to ride up and dig into the back of your knees .
B_ND specialises in cotton and elastane bands in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to xx-heavy ) with differing degrees of stretch that wo n't budge .
Their short bands are brilliant for perfecting lunges , squats and glute exercises , while the longer ones can be looped around posts and poles to stretch out legs or help to improve arm strength .
Chilly 's stainless steel water bottles are exceptional at keeping cold liquid cool for up to a full day and hot ones piping for up to 12 hours , with no danger of leaking or cracking .
Its double-walled vacuum insulation prevents the liquid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the high-grade steel prevents your drink from taking on the flavour of the container , as can sometimes happen in plastic bottles .
Both comfortable and supportive , the trainers ' lightweight and roomy upper mesh allows air to flow over the toes to keep feet cool and dry , minimising the chance of painful blisters .
They 're suitable for both short distances and longer runs on tarmac and grass and stable enough to counteract heel-striking gaits .
A great shoe for both beginners and running enthusiasts .
While by no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the unparalleled best truly-wireless noise-cancelling headphones out there .
The technology is sophisticated enough to block out outside sound without posing a danger when running near or on roads , and its internal sensors ' ability to detected when a bud has been removed to pause what you 're listening to is incredibly useful .
The small buds stay firmly in place during even the most vigorous runs thanks to their rubber tips ( make sure to choose the best size , if they feel too tight , go down a size @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small enough to zip into a pocket or running pouch without issue .
YogaMatter 's yoga mat is excellent value for money ( Photo : YogaMatters )

Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or getting into fitness for the first time, social distancing measures and lockdown has proved challenging in terms of staying fit and healthy when we’re not allowed to spend prolonged amounts of time outside.
Whether you’re exercising from the comfort of your own home or using your hour of state-sanctioned outdoors time to go running, having the right gear will make your workouts both easier and more efficient.
Kalenji running smartphone waistband
£6.99, Decathlon
Kiss goodbye to bulky armbands – the Kalenji running smartphone waistband secures even the largest smartphone against your midriff as you run with no irritating bouncing.
The clip-fastened strap is adjustable, allowing you to fasten it high on your ribcage or lower on your stomach depending on which you prefer, and there’s even room for your keys and headphone case in the pouch.
Domyos dumbbells
Prices vary, Decathlon
While dumbbells are still in short supply, Decathlon is re-stocking its weights online intermittently. Domyos, Decathlon’s own range of sports equipment, makes high-quality, low-cost weights that are simple to store and are prevented from rolling around thanks to their angled sides.
Fitbit Charge 4
While the Apple Watch remains the best all-rounder smartwatch for both health and lifestyle, Fitbit’s new Charge 4 band represents a great introduction to fitness tracking or a significant upgrade on the company’s existing models.
The new device sports inbuilt-GPS and control over Spotify, meaning you won’t have to rely on your phone or headphones to skip or replay tracks. Its software is intuitive and easy to use, its sleep tracking is excellent and its new Active Zone Minutes feature is handy for working out the types of workouts you’re likely to find most beneficial.
Kayla Itsines Sweat subscription app
£16.07 for a month or £96.40 for a year, Apple App Store and Google Play Store
As app-based fitness subscriptions go, fitness evangelist Kayla Itsines’ Sweat is the ultimate guide to sculpting your body with three 28-minute HIIT workouts focusing on legs, arms and abs each week.
Each type of workout is supplemented with supporting cool-downs and stretches, and you’re given a choice of programmes to follow, including the standard BBG (formerly known as bikini body guide), the weight-focused BBG Stronger, the equipment-heavy PWR and yoga-based Body and Mind. All the programmes have recently been overhauled to make them easier to complete at home away from gym equipment, and if you’re in two minds about committing to paying for Sweat long-term, it offers new members a free trial.
Note – Sweat is not just for women, Michael Fassbender used it to get in shape for X Men: Dark Phoenix. Stick with it – it really works.
Starwoods Sports foam roller
£9.99, Amazon
Relax tense muscles and stave off future injury with this robust foam roller. Regular foam rolling is a great way to combat tight calves and for releasing muscle knots in glutes and hamstrings, and is an essential part of all runners’ kits.
B_ND long and short resistance bands
£16 for long bands, £14 for short, B_ND
Resistance bands are an inexpensive and lightweight way to build muscle strength by increasing resistance in both upper and lower body exercises: you’ll definitely notice the difference between doing a set of squats with and without out.
It’s worth investing in decent quality bands, as cheaper rubber loops tend to ride up and dig into the back of your knees. B_ND specialises in cotton and elastane bands in a variety of strengths (from light to xx-heavy) with differing degrees of stretch that won’t budge. Their short bands are brilliant for perfecting lunges, squats and glute exercises, while the longer ones can be looped around posts and poles to stretch out legs or help to improve arm strength.
Chilly’s water bottle
Chilly’s stainless steel water bottles are exceptional at keeping cold liquid cool for up to a full day and hot ones piping for up to 12 hours, with no danger of leaking or cracking. Its double-walled vacuum insulation prevents the liquid from being affected by its environment, and the high-grade steel prevents your drink from taking on the flavour of the container, as can sometimes happen in plastic bottles.
The 260ml size comfortably holds a takeaway coffee, while the 500ml is the best option for replacing a single-use plastic water bottle. While they’re not the cheapest reusable bottles on the market, accept no substitutes – Chilly’s will last for years.
Asics Novablast running trainers for men and women
£120, Asics
Asics’ Novablast trainers sport a thick, bouncy geometrically-cut foam sole to elevate the runner and encourage longer strides for faster running times.
Both comfortable and supportive, the trainers’ lightweight and roomy upper mesh allows air to flow over the toes to keep feet cool and dry, minimising the chance of painful blisters. They’re suitable for both short distances and longer runs on tarmac and grass and stable enough to counteract heel-striking gaits. A great shoe for both beginners and running enthusiasts.
Apple AirPods Pro
£249, Apple
While by no means cheap, Apple’s AirPods Pro are the unparalleled best truly-wireless noise-cancelling headphones out there. The technology is sophisticated enough to block out outside sound without posing a danger when running near or on roads, and its internal sensors’ ability to detected when a bud has been removed to pause what you’re listening to is incredibly useful.
The small buds stay firmly in place during even the most vigorous runs thanks to their rubber tips (make sure to choose the best size, if they feel too tight, go down a size), and the charging case is small enough to zip into a pocket or running pouch without issue.
Yogamatters sticky yoga mat
Yogamatters, £20
If you’re after an affordable, durable yoga mat with a strong grip that won’t slip from under you, the YogaMatters sticky mat is a good place to start.
The high-quality PVC provides a decent amount of cushion if you’re using it on a hard wooden floor, and can easily withstand being rolled up and stored in tight spaces. A great beginner’s mat if you’re looking to start stretching and practising yoga at home.


inews--2020-05-06--Almost one third of Ocado investors rebel against founder's £58.7m pay packet

Almost one third of Ocado investors rebel against founder 's £58.7m pay packet The online grocer also revealed that sales have jumped in the last two months Ocado investors have rebelled against a bumper payday of almost £60m for its chief executive , with almost a third of shareholders voting against director pay at its annual meeting .
The bumper payday , which is based on an incentive scheme tied to the firm 's share price growth , has been approved after securing investor support of just over 70 per cent .
But the firm acknowledged the significant scale of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harrison said that the 2014 Growth Incentive Plan , which was based on the company ’ s share price growth compared to the FTSE 100 , was a one-off scheme and has now been replaced by a different plan .
“ The Committee feels that the value of awards vesting under the GIP , which was earned over a five year period , reflects the outstanding returns received by shareholders over this period and believes that these returns have arisen because of the extraordinary underlying growth and performance of the business , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier in the week by Royal London Asset Management , which owns a 0.3 per cent stake in the business worth about £34m and said it would vote against the resolution .
Responding to the issue prior to the meeting yesterday , finance director Duncan Tatton-Brown said : “ There has been a discussion on schemes approved in 2014 that paid out in 2019 .
A scheme that was only awarded for exceptional performance .
During that five-year period shareholders benefited from a £7.5bn increase in value .
It is what it is.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ capacity in response to the increase in demand , as more people turn to online ordering during lockdown .
The business has been running its warehouses close to their peak capacity .
The group said panic-buying and stockpiling by customers was coming to an end and that `` more normal shopping patterns have returned '' in recent weeks .
The online supermarket also piled pressure on its brick and mortar rivals by saying it would pay any Government windfall tax imposed on grocers following a surge in sales across the sector amid coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officer at Ocado , told i that , despite the group never having made a profit in its 20-year history , it would pay any windfall tax that might be handed down to the supermarket industry as the Government seek to recover billions in taxpayer ’ s cash used to bailout businesses and help furloughed employees during the health crisis .
“ In the grocery industry , and I don ’ t know if we ’ re alone in this , we have had no rates rebate , haven ’ t taken any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s furlough scheme .
And , as has been widely reported , we made a big loss last year .
But if the Government thinks it ’ s right to impose a windfall tax on grocery retailers then we ’ ll pay it .
We will follow the tax rules ” Unlike Ocado the UK ’ s biggest supermarkets such as Tesco , Sainsbury , Morrison and Asda benefited significantly from the Government ’ s business rates holiday .
Between them they are estimated to have been handed a tax break of around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tax Watch UK .

Ocado investors have rebelled against a bumper payday of almost £60m for its chief executive, with almost a third of shareholders voting against director pay at its annual meeting.
Co-founder and chief executive Tim Steiner is in line to receive a £58.7m pay packet, including a £54m bonus, despite 29.76 per cent of votes being cast against the decision.
The bumper payday, which is based on an incentive scheme tied to the firm’s share price growth, has been approved after securing investor support of just over 70 per cent. But the firm acknowledged the significant scale of the revolt.
Award reflects ‘extraordinary underlying growth’
Remuneration committee chairman Andrew Harrison said that the 2014 Growth Incentive Plan, which was based on the company’s share price growth compared to the FTSE 100, was a one-off scheme and has now been replaced by a different plan.
“The Committee feels that the value of awards vesting under the GIP, which was earned over a five year period, reflects the outstanding returns received by shareholders over this period and believes that these returns have arisen because of the extraordinary underlying growth and performance of the business,” he added.
Shareholder dissent was voiced earlier in the week by Royal London Asset Management, which owns a 0.3 per cent stake in the business worth about £34m and said it would vote against the resolution.
Ashley Hamilton Claxton, head of responsible investment at RLAM, said: “Ocado’s latest pay report is a classic example of how poorly designed incentive plans can lead to excessive awards for management.”
Responding to the issue prior to the meeting yesterday, finance director Duncan Tatton-Brown said: “There has been a discussion on schemes approved in 2014 that paid out in 2019. A scheme that was only awarded for exceptional performance. During that five-year period shareholders benefited from a £7.5bn increase in value. It is what it is.”
Huge surge in lockdown sales
The company also released a trading update to coincide with the meeting, unveiling a 40.4 per cent surge in revenue over the past two months.
It said it has ramped up capacity in response to the increase in demand, as more people turn to online ordering during lockdown. The business has been running its warehouses close to their peak capacity.
The group said panic-buying and stockpiling by customers was coming to an end and that “more normal shopping patterns have returned” in recent weeks.
Ocado backs windfall tax on grocers
The online supermarket also piled pressure on its brick and mortar rivals by saying it would pay any Government windfall tax imposed on grocers following a surge in sales across the sector amid coronavirus restrictions.
Duncan Tatton-Brown, chief financial officer at Ocado, told i that, despite the group never having made a profit in its 20-year history, it would pay any windfall tax that might be handed down to the supermarket industry as the Government seek to recover billions in taxpayer’s cash used to bailout businesses and help furloughed employees during the health crisis.
“In the grocery industry, and I don’t know if we’re alone in this, we have had no rates rebate, haven’t taken any loans and not used the Government’s furlough scheme. And, as has been widely reported, we made a big loss last year. But if the Government thinks it’s right to impose a windfall tax on grocery retailers then we’ll pay it. We will follow the tax rules”
Unlike Ocado the UK’s biggest supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury, Morrison and Asda benefited significantly from the Government’s business rates holiday. Between them they are estimated to have been handed a tax break of around £2.7bn, according to investigative think tank Tax Watch UK.
Ocado’s willingness to pay any windfall tax will put pressure on the hugely profitable supermarkets to back the move as well.


inews--2020-05-06--VE Day celebrations: From virtual street parties to dance classes, Britons plan to mark 75th anniver

VE Day celebrations: From virtual street parties to dance classes, Britons plan to mark 75th anniversary despite lockdown

VE Day celebrations : From virtual street parties to dance classes , Britons plan to mark 75th anniversary despite lockdown Sing-alongs , virtual dances , front garden tea parties and light shows are among events for 75th anniversary Across the country communities will be marking VE Day in their own remarkable way with sing-alongs , dances , light shows and tea parties planned to recreate the flavour of the 1940s .
Despite the lockdown , every corner of the nation has events to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe .
The group has created online tutorial videos so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hits Sway and Come Fly With Me .
Gloucester City Council will be sharing a series of videos with residents , looking back at the Second World War and in particular the contribution of the Gloster Aircraft Company which manufactured thousands of Hawker fighter planes .
Basingstoke Mayor Diane Taylor will be encouraging people in the Hampshire town to join in the international Cry for Peace at 6.55pm on Friday .
She will be streaming the address live on social media at the same time as dignitaries around the world .
At Captain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Bell in Marston Moretaine , Bedfordshire , publican Karl Clark will raise a glass and ring the pub bell at 3pm in honour of veterans and signalling the start of the same in pubs up and down the country .
Mr Clark said : `` Captain Tom has become a national hero for his recent sponsored walk but we want to make sure we also recognise his achievements during WWII and raise a glass to him and his fellow veterans . ''
For the residents of Mansfield in Nottinghamshire a “ huge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in front gardens and wartime-style treats delivered to loved ones in isolation .
Unlike the Trafalgar Square crowds at VE Day in 1945 , this year celebrations will have to be held in a socially distant style ( Photo : Getty ) Lorry driver Chris Riches will be bringing the VE Day party to peoples ’ homes and front gardens in Thetford , Norfolk with his musical tour of the town .
He has been granted permission by the police and local council to drive through the streets in his lorry , decorated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high .
Just over the border in Suffolk , sisters Chloe Middleton , aged 9 , and six-year-old Jessica will be falling silent from 9am on VE day for 75 minutes .
The schoolgirls from Moreton Hall , Bury St Edmunds have vowed to keep quiet to raise money for the Wish Upon A Star Appeal in aid of West Suffolk Hospital .
While further north it will be a more visual affair , as the Tyne Bridge linking Newcastle with Gateshead is lit up in red , white and blue .

Across the country communities will be marking VE Day in their own remarkable way with sing-alongs, dances, light shows and tea parties planned to recreate the flavour of the 1940s.
Despite the lockdown, every corner of the nation has events to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe.
In Devon, dance troupe Plymouth Dance is encouraging people to celebrate safely at home with a few classic dance moves.
The group has created online tutorial videos so people can twirl away to Frank Sinatra hits Sway and Come Fly With Me.
75th anniversary
Gloucester City Council will be sharing a series of videos with residents, looking back at the Second World War and in particular the contribution of the Gloster Aircraft Company which manufactured thousands of Hawker fighter planes.
Basingstoke Mayor Diane Taylor will be encouraging people in the Hampshire town to join in the international Cry for Peace at 6.55pm on Friday.
She will be streaming the address live on social media at the same time as dignitaries around the world.
At Captain Tom Moore’s local pub, The Bell in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, publican Karl Clark will raise a glass and ring the pub bell at 3pm in honour of veterans and signalling the start of the same in pubs up and down the country.
Raise a glass
Mr Clark said: “Captain Tom has become a national hero for his recent sponsored walk but we want to make sure we also recognise his achievements during WWII and raise a glass to him and his fellow veterans.”
The British Beer and Pub Association has called on its members, representing more than 20,000 pubs, to join the celebrations virtually.
For the residents of Mansfield in Nottinghamshire a “huge virtual party” is planned with picnics in front gardens and wartime-style treats delivered to loved ones in isolation.
Singer Jessica Poole, known as the Yorkshire Belle, will lead a wartime sing-along of 1940s favourites live on the council’s Facebook page at 8.15pm.
Derby City Council will broadcast a special pre-recorded dedication service to mark VE Day at 2.45pm on Facebook.
‘Huge virtual party’
In East Anglia, King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council is holding online 1940s dance classes along with an ARP Warden plane-spotting quiz as part of its celebrations.
Lorry driver Chris Riches will be bringing the VE Day party to peoples’ homes and front gardens in Thetford, Norfolk with his musical tour of the town.
He has been granted permission by the police and local council to drive through the streets in his lorry, decorated in bunting playing songs to keep spirits high.
Just over the border in Suffolk, sisters Chloe Middleton, aged 9, and six-year-old Jessica will be falling silent from 9am on VE day for 75 minutes.
Falling silent
The schoolgirls from Moreton Hall, Bury St Edmunds have vowed to keep quiet to raise money for the Wish Upon A Star Appeal in aid of West Suffolk Hospital.
While further north it will be a more visual affair, as the Tyne Bridge linking Newcastle with Gateshead is lit up in red, white and blue.
And nationwide people in lockdown are being urged to show their support for VE Day commemorations by placing a specially designed image of a Second World War soldier in their windows.
Second World War
Armed forces charity Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) has launched its “Tommy in the window” campaign, producing specially designed figures of soldiers.
More than 2,000 of the 25cm high perspex figures have been purchased so far, made by injured veterans, all money raised from the campaign will go towards the charity’s work to provide employment, training and support to veterans and their families.


inews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus lockdown: More than two-thirds of Africans fear they will run out of food and water, rep

Coronavirus lockdown: More than two-thirds of Africans fear they will run out of food and water, report says

Coronavirus lockdown : More than two-thirds of Africans fear they will run out of food and water , report says Sixty-nine per cent said food and water would be a problem if they were required to remain at home for 14 days Mathare Roots Youth initiative distribute food parcels to the needy and vulnerable families during coronavirus pandemic in Mathare , Nairobi , on May 6 , 2020 ( Photo : Getty ) More than two-thirds of Africans fear they would run out of food and water and more than half of money if they have to stay at home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conducted by The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention , the World Health Organisation ( Who ) and partners has revealed the difficulties of adopting strict lockdown measures on the continent .
The survey across 20 African nations from late March to mid-April found a third of respondents ( 32 per cent ) said they did not have enough information about Covid-19 to protect themselves .
For 62 per cent of those surveyed they feared the virus would have a major impact on their country but only 44 per cent thought it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guinean Red Cross members inform people about coronavirus with a megaphone in a market in Conakry ( Photo : Getty ) And 69 per cent said food and water would be a problem if they were required to remain at home for 14 days while 51 per cent would run out of money .
The findings have been published , in a report entitled Responding to Covid-19 in Africa : Using Data to Find a Balance , to help governments develop strategies to deal with the virus .
“ This report highlights the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Africa and threaten response efforts , ” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti , WHO Regional Director for Africa , “ The findings of this report , along with COVID-19 trend data , will help countries make strategic decisions on relaxing their lockdowns .
“ What we ’ ve learnt from Ebola and other outbreaks is that countries need to decentralize the response to the community level and increase their capacity to identify and diagnose cases.
” The report recommends governments strengthen public health systems , monitor data on how effective measures are on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to communicate risks and maintain support for measures .
Authors of the report noted the strain social distancing measures have put on some communities and the unrest this can cause .
It said social media users in Nigeria and Kenya reported some people in urban areas had broken stay-at-home orders forced out by hunger .

More than two-thirds of Africans fear they would run out of food and water and more than half of money if they have to stay at home in lockdown for 14 days.
Research conducted by The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organisation (Who) and partners has revealed the difficulties of adopting strict lockdown measures on the continent.
The survey across 20 African nations from late March to mid-April found a third of respondents (32 per cent) said they did not have enough information about Covid-19 to protect themselves.
For 62 per cent of those surveyed they feared the virus would have a major impact on their country but only 44 per cent thought it was a threat to them personally.
Run out of food
And 69 per cent said food and water would be a problem if they were required to remain at home for 14 days while 51 per cent would run out of money.
The findings have been published, in a report entitled Responding to Covid-19 in Africa: Using Data to Find a Balance, to help governments develop strategies to deal with the virus.
“This report highlights the large information gaps on COVID-19 which exist in Africa and threaten response efforts,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, “The findings of this report, along with COVID-19 trend data, will help countries make strategic decisions on relaxing their lockdowns.
“What we’ve learnt from Ebola and other outbreaks is that countries need to decentralize the response to the community level and increase their capacity to identify and diagnose cases.”
Lessons from Ebola
The report recommends governments strengthen public health systems, monitor data on how effective measures are on local Covid-19 conditions and engage with communities to communicate risks and maintain support for measures.
Authors of the report noted the strain social distancing measures have put on some communities and the unrest this can cause.
It said social media users in Nigeria and Kenya reported some people in urban areas had broken stay-at-home orders forced out by hunger.
And it said governments risked unrest if measures were not tailored to local communities.
“Countries now must find a balance between reducing transmission while preventing social and economic disruption,” the report said.