inews--2020-05-14--Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich: Prince Andrew's accuser Virginia Giuffre issues warning to Jeffrey Eps

Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich: Prince Andrew's accuser Virginia Giuffre issues warning to Jeffrey Epstein's associates ahead of Netflix documentary

Ms Giuffre declares at the end of the trailer : 'The monsters are still out there' The Duke of York ’ s accuser Virginia Giuffre has warned Jeffrey Epstein ’ s alleged associates “ you took our freedom , now we ’ re going to take yours ” , in a trailer for a new documentary on the disgraced financier .
The documentary , which will be streamed on May 27 , will feature first-hand accounts from a “ sisterhood of survivors ” , some of whom are speaking for the first time .
It will also look at Epstein @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raises questions about how he died in jail in 2019 , with one contributor asking : “ Did he kill himself ?
Was he killed ?
” 'We 're coming to get you' Mr Epstein died in jail last year ( Photo : New York State Sex Offender Registry/AP , File ) The trailer talks of a “ spiderweb of people ” involved with billionaire paedophile Epstein and includes the well-known image of Andrew with his arm around the waist of a young Ms Giuffre .
Ms Giuffre declares at the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still out there .
You took our freedom , now we ’ re going to take yours.
” She has claimed she was trafficked by Epstein and alleges the duke had sex with her on three separate occasions , including when she was 17 , still a minor under US law .
The Duke of York during his interview with BBC Newsnight 's Emily Maitlis ( Photo : Mark Harrington/BBC/PA ) Prince Andrew , who categorically denies he had any form of sexual contact or relationship with Ms Giuffre , stepped down from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Newsnight interview in which he failed to show remorse over his friendship with Epstein .
He told the programme knowing Epstein had “ some seriously beneficial outcomes ” at a time when he had left a career in the Navy and begun one as a trade and industry specialist representative .
“ The people that I met and the opportunities that I was given to learn , either by him or because of him , were actually very useful , ” he said in the interview with Emily Maitlis .
It was later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for permission to withdraw from royal duties for the “ foreseeable future ” , adding that he deeply sympathised with Epstein ’ s victims and everyone who “ wants some form of closure ” .
Also pictured in the trailer is former British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell .
She was also a friend of Andrew ’ s and is believed to be in hiding .
She has been accused of procuring girls for Epstein , which she denies .

The Duke of York’s accuser Virginia Giuffre has warned Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged associates “you took our freedom, now we’re going to take yours”, in a trailer for a new documentary on the disgraced financier.
Netflix’s four-part series Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich will explore how convicted sex offender Epstein used his wealth and power to carry out his abuse.
The documentary, which will be streamed on May 27, will feature first-hand accounts from a “sisterhood of survivors”, some of whom are speaking for the first time.
It will also look at Epstein’s “Gatsby-like” existence and raises questions about how he died in jail in 2019, with one contributor asking: “Did he kill himself? Was he killed?”
‘We’re coming to get you’
The trailer talks of a “spiderweb of people” involved with billionaire paedophile Epstein and includes the well-known image of Andrew with his arm around the waist of a young Ms Giuffre.
Ms Giuffre declares at the end of the trailer: “The monsters are still out there. You took our freedom, now we’re going to take yours.”
She has claimed she was trafficked by Epstein and alleges the duke had sex with her on three separate occasions, including when she was 17, still a minor under US law.
Categorical denial
Prince Andrew, who categorically denies he had any form of sexual contact or relationship with Ms Giuffre, stepped down from royal life last year after his disastrous Newsnight interview in which he failed to show remorse over his friendship with Epstein.
He told the programme knowing Epstein had “some seriously beneficial outcomes” at a time when he had left a career in the Navy and begun one as a trade and industry specialist representative.
“The people that I met and the opportunities that I was given to learn, either by him or because of him, were actually very useful,” he said in the interview with Emily Maitlis.
It was later announced that he had asked the Queen for permission to withdraw from royal duties for the “foreseeable future”, adding that he deeply sympathised with Epstein’s victims and everyone who “wants some form of closure”.
The Prince has faced repeated calls to talk to the FBI and US prosecutors still investigating Epstein.
Also pictured in the trailer is former British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell. She was also a friend of Andrew’s and is believed to be in hiding. She has been accused of procuring girls for Epstein, which she denies.


inews--2020-05-14--Atlantic seals 'sacrifice themselves' and transfer one third of their bodyweight to pups

Atlantic seals 'sacrifice themselves ' and transfer one third of their bodyweight to pups Atlantic grey seals , one of two seal species found along the British coast , spend around 20 days nursing their pups Female Atlantic grey seals transfer one third of their body weight to pups to help their young stockpile vital nutrients as they grow , research reveals .
Atlantic grey seals , one of two seal species found along the British coast , spend around 20 days nursing their pups before they have to head into the water to find more food .
The pups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can join their mothers in the water .
The team of researchers , from Glasgow , St Andrews and Strathclyde universities , analysed the nutrient levels in pups and mothers during the feeding period .
They concluded that mothers pass on a dramatic proportion of their nutrients to pups from their own reserves .
That is so the pups have enough nourishment to survive a month on their own , before they are old enough to join their mothers in the water , explained Professor Malcolm Kennedy , Professor of Natural History @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The pups have to be very well nourished in order to survive their own long fast after their mother leaves them to survive on their own , ” said Professor Kennedy .
“ We found new evidence demonstrating the extent to which mothers sacrifice themselves to provide their pups with essential nutrients before they leave.
” Grey seal mothers leave their young for a month when they return to the ocean ( Photo : Patrick Pomeroy ) Professor Kennedy said the team ’ s discovery suggests the mothers pass on so many nutrients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own survival .
That makes the Atlantic grey unlike most other species of seal , which usually preserve enough blubber reserves to keep them energised and warm in the cold seas of the Atlantic .
`` During the remarkably short lactations of grey seals , pups acquire substantial quantities of certain crucial nutrients to the extent that the mothers may deplete and endanger themselves , '' he explained .
`` What makes mother seals stop feeding their pups and leave is not known , so what we have found could contribute to @ @ @ @

Female Atlantic grey seals transfer one third of their body weight to pups to help their young stockpile vital nutrients as they grow, research reveals.
Atlantic grey seals, one of two seal species found along the British coast, spend around 20 days nursing their pups before they have to head into the water to find more food. The pups are left alone for a month before they can join their mothers in the water.
The team of researchers, from Glasgow, St Andrews and Strathclyde universities, analysed the nutrient levels in pups and mothers during the feeding period. They concluded that mothers pass on a dramatic proportion of their nutrients to pups from their own reserves.
That is so the pups have enough nourishment to survive a month on their own, before they are old enough to join their mothers in the water, explained Professor Malcolm Kennedy, Professor of Natural History at the University of Glasgow.
“The pups have to be very well nourished in order to survive their own long fast after their mother leaves them to survive on their own,” said Professor Kennedy. “We found new evidence demonstrating the extent to which mothers sacrifice themselves to provide their pups with essential nutrients before they leave.”
Mothers in danger
Professor Kennedy said the team’s discovery suggests the mothers pass on so many nutrients to their pups that they actually endanger their own survival. That makes the Atlantic grey unlike most other species of seal, which usually preserve enough blubber reserves to keep them energised and warm in the cold seas of the Atlantic.
“During the remarkably short lactations of grey seals, pups acquire substantial quantities of certain crucial nutrients to the extent that the mothers may deplete and endanger themselves,” he explained. “What makes mother seals stop feeding their pups and leave is not known, so what we have found could contribute to an answer.”
The findings appear in the journal Scientific Reports.


inews--2020-05-14--Openreach engineers are still being abused by 5G protesters as they prepare to resume work in custom

Openreach engineers are still being abused by 5G protesters as they prepare to resume work in customers' homes

Openreach engineers are still being abused by 5G protesters as they prepare to resume work in customers ' homes Openreach workers have been abused and threatened on 60 occasions in the past six weeks Openreach engineers are still being abused by members of the public who believe false conspiracy theories linking the spread of Covid-19 to 5G technology , as they prepare to return to working inside customer 's homes from next week .
Openreach is the division of BT that oversees the cables , fibres and wires to nearly all homes and businesses in the UK , and does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ network .
`` I tried to explain to him what I was working on was nothing to do with 5G , these systems have been around since about 1940 .
He left but returned with another man , shouting and swearing : 'You 're killing people , ' I started to slowly pack up my equipment when a third man arrived and told me : 'You think you can kill us all , you watch what we 're going to do to you . '
'' `` I have to take it seriously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take my head off , '' he said .
`` It was really distressing - I did n't feel safe going back to the job .
`` It 's hard enough that we need to go out every day in the pandemic and we 're trying to do our best for people to stay safe at home . ''
`` She repeatedly told me it 's not the coronavirus that 's killing people but radiation from 5G , despite us saying we were n't involved with it at all , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I came back from my lunch break , the same woman started swearing at me , claiming she 'd heard us laughing at her and said if she saw me again she 'd get her brother and his six mates to 'come and do me in ' .
At that point , I packed up , left and rang the police . ''
Openreach , the infrastructure of which is used by Sky , TalkTalk , Vodafone and other major networks , offers its engineers counselling through its employee assistance programme and runs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ threatened to call and use a safe phrase to alert other close-by engineers to join them .
Another member of the public spat in the face of Michael , one of Pedro 's colleagues , causing him to miss work for 14 days to self-isolate .
He later contracted coronavirus , but has fully recovered and since returned to work .
One engineer in Cambridgeshire was wrestled to the ground by a TalkTalk customer after he refused to enter their home after he heard someone coughing and sneezing inside the property , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , verbally abuse , and had their vans punched , Openreach said .
`` We 've got 24m customers , and during this time it 's become much more important to stay connected .
Our engineers are out there trying to do a job , and people need to look after them or leave them alone . ''

Openreach engineers are still being abused by members of the public who believe false conspiracy theories linking the spread of Covid-19 to 5G technology, as they prepare to return to working inside customer’s homes from next week.
The company’s engineers have been assaulted and threatened in 60 separate incidents since 1 April, including being spat at, having water thrown over them and being physically assaulted – three of which were reported this week.
Openreach is the division of BT that oversees the cables, fibres and wires to nearly all homes and businesses in the UK, and does not work on the UK’s 5G network.
It has been advising its engineers to avoid entering customers’ homes since late March and will start a phased return to going inside homes and businesses from 18 May following guidance from Public Health England.
False 5G claims are still fuelling attacks
Fake claims wrongly linking the roll-out of 5G technology to the pandemic circulating online have triggered a violent wave of attacks on phone masts and telecoms engineers in the past two months.
Pedro, a trainee engineer in Tottenham, London, was approached by a member of the public last week while working on a street cabinet.
“A man passed by me three times, whispering,” he told i. “The final time he said: ‘This is gonna have consequences, I’m gonna rip your head off – you’re killing people.’
“I tried to explain to him what I was working on was nothing to do with 5G, these systems have been around since about 1940. He left but returned with another man, shouting and swearing: ‘You’re killing people,’ I started to slowly pack up my equipment when a third man arrived and told me: ‘You think you can kill us all, you watch what we’re going to do to you.'”
After the men pulled out smartphones to record or photograph him, Pedro drove away from the scene and reported the incident to BT security and the police.
“I have to take it seriously when someone tells me they want to take my head off,” he said. “It was really distressing – I didn’t feel safe going back to the job.
“It’s hard enough that we need to go out every day in the pandemic and we’re trying to do our best for people to stay safe at home.”
Gwithion, an apprentice network engineer based in Essex, was working outside a property with a colleague when he was verbally abused and physically threatened by a woman convinced the pair were installing 5G.
“She repeatedly told me it’s not the coronavirus that’s killing people but radiation from 5G, despite us saying we weren’t involved with it at all,” he said.
“After my colleague left and I came back from my lunch break, the same woman started swearing at me, claiming she’d heard us laughing at her and said if she saw me again she’d get her brother and his six mates to ‘come and do me in’. At that point, I packed up, left and rang the police.”
Physical and verbal abuse
The experience has made Gwithion wary of visiting the area with his daughter and partner’s children out of fear the same woman could attempt to harm him.
Openreach, the infrastructure of which is used by Sky, TalkTalk, Vodafone and other major networks, offers its engineers counselling through its employee assistance programme and runs a phone line for workers who feel threatened to call and use a safe phrase to alert other close-by engineers to join them.
Another member of the public spat in the face of Michael, one of Pedro’s colleagues, causing him to miss work for 14 days to self-isolate. He later contracted coronavirus, but has fully recovered and since returned to work.
One engineer in Cambridgeshire was wrestled to the ground by a TalkTalk customer after he refused to enter their home after he heard someone coughing and sneezing inside the property, while other workers have been threatened with violence, verbally abuse, and had their vans punched, Openreach said.
Read More Coronavirus: More than one in four most-viewed YouTube videos contain misleading claims
“Our engineers have been subject to mindless abuse and intimidation, some linked to 5G and others not,” said Richard Ginnaw, senior manager of security operations at Openreach.
“It’s totally misjudged, as our engineers are key workers playing a vital role in connecting crucial public services, vulnerable customers, family and friends – I can’t understand it.”
The company has rejigged its training around violence at work to take account of current threats, using real examples of conflicts workers have faced, and regularly updates engineers through its workplace Facebook groups, he said.
“We’ve got 24m customers, and during this time it’s become much more important to stay connected. Our engineers are out there trying to do a job, and people need to look after them or leave them alone.”
Spread of false information
Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said the UK’s telecoms engineers are doing vital work to keep the company connected in a time of crisis.
“We will not tolerate threats or violence towards key workers and those responsible will face the full force of the law,” he said.
“The spread of false information giving credence to crackpot ideas is a menace and we are working urgently with the social media platforms to tackle it.”
While Twitter and Facebook have recently announced measures to attempt to tackle 5G conspiracy theories that incite violence on their platforms, such theories are still widely available for users to view and share.
Twitter confirmed it would look at removing tweets related to “unverified claims that incite people to action, could lead to the destruction or damage of critical 5G infrastructure, or could lead to widespread panic, social unrest, or large-scale disorder” last month.


inews--2020-05-14--Coronavirus latest: NHS to offer 'game-changing' antibody tests across UK within weeks

Coronavirus latest : NHS to offer 'game-changing ' antibody tests across UK within weeks Scotland ’ s Health Secretary , Jeane Freeman , said the testing would be rolled out north of the border as soon as possible No 10 has said the test could offer the potential for providing people with a “ health certificate ” to show they have overcome the virus , once more is understood about the level of immunity the antibodies provide .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressing the nation about coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) from 10 Downing Street ( Photo : PA ) The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ We ’ ve talked about in the future the potential for some kind of health certificate related to whether or not you have antibodies , but we need a better understanding of how the immune system responds to the virus and the length and level of immunity following the infection .
Roche has indicated it can supply hundreds of thousands of its kits , which need to be administered in a laboratory setting , each week .
It comes after the US and the EU approved the same test earlier this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to discover whether antibodies offered immunity and for how long they persisted .
“ But the good news is we do now have antibody tests that we absolutely can rely on , ” he said .
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said the testing would be rolled out north of the border as soon as possible ( Photo : Scottish Government ) Scientists welcomed the approval by PHE , stating it would provide an essential tool in providing greater surveillance of the spread of the virus in the community but warned that the accuracy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Testing times — How will it work ?
What is the test that Public Health England has approved ?
How does it work ?
People provide a blood sample 14 to 28 days after infection .
This is then sent to a hospital-based lab where , according to Roche , it can be analysed in just 18 minutes .
The test results are likely to take a day or more to receive back .
What does the test do ?
It offers the Government a vital tool to track where the virus has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to work .
Roche said it could provide hundreds of thousands of tests a week .
It is expected that NHS staff will be tested first , and then other key workers before the general public .
Will it be available on the NHS ?
Does it mean lockdown will be lifted ?
How would these work ?

Downing Street has opened the door to providing the public with “immunity passports” after health officials approved a “vital” test that shows whether people have been infected with Covid-19.
Ministers have referred to the test, which checks if a person has developed antibodies having contracted the virus, as a “game changer” after it was given the go-ahead for use by Public Health England (PHE).
Government medical advisers said the tests would be “rapidly rolled out in the days and weeks to come”.
No 10 has said the test could offer the potential for providing people with a “health certificate” to show they have overcome the virus, once more is understood about the level of immunity the antibodies provide.
‘Important breakthrough’
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “We’ve talked about in the future the potential for some kind of health certificate related to whether or not you have antibodies, but we need a better understanding of how the immune system responds to the virus and the length and level of immunity following the infection.
“It clearly is an important breakthrough that we have found a test that is highly specific but work will continue to better understand the full potential of the test.”
The NHS is negotiating with Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche, which developed the test, about how and when it will become available.
It is expected the test will be offered first to frontline NHS workers and other essential services before being rolled out to the general public via the health service.
Supplying kits to UK
Roche has indicated it can supply hundreds of thousands of its kits, which need to be administered in a laboratory setting, each week. It comes after the US and the EU approved the same test earlier this month.
Boris Johnson had previously hailed such a test as a “game-changer” but it is still unknown just what level of immunity the antibodies provide.
Deputy chief medical officer for England, Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, said the antibody test will be “rapidly rolled out in the days and weeks to come as soon as it is practical to do so”.
He said scientists still needed to discover whether antibodies offered immunity and for how long they persisted. “But the good news is we do now have antibody tests that we absolutely can rely on,” he said.
Essential tool
Scotland’s Health Secretary, Jeane Freeman, said the testing would be rolled out north of the border as soon as possible. “It is very good news indeed.
“Our officials are actively engaged through Public Health Scotland and with our clinical advisers of course, with colleagues south of the border,” she said.
Scientists welcomed the approval by PHE, stating it would provide an essential tool in providing greater surveillance of the spread of the virus in the community but warned that the accuracy of the test would be crucial.
Officials have been in talks with tech firms about facial biometrics that could be used as an immunity passport allowing people to return to work.
Testing times — How will it work?
What is the test that Public Health England has approved?
Laboratory technicians at Porton Down, Wiltshire, have given the green light to a lab-based test, which checks if a person has developed antibodies after having been infected with Covid-19. The test has been developed by Swiss diagnostics firm Roche.
How does it work?
People provide a blood sample 14 to 28 days after infection. This is then sent to a hospital-based lab where, according to Roche, it can be analysed in just 18 minutes. The test results are likely to take a day or more to receive back.
What does the test do?
It offers the Government a vital tool to track where the virus has been, ultimately enabling people to go back to work. Roche said it could provide hundreds of thousands of tests a week. It is expected that NHS staff will be tested first, and then other key workers before the general public.
Will it be available on the NHS?
Yes, once a commercial deal is agreed with Roche. It is still unclear when the tests will be available.
Does it mean lockdown will be lifted?
No. Too little is known about if having had the disease provides protection from secondary infection. The idea of “immunity passports” has been floated but more research is needed.
How would these work?
These could be used to show someone has had Covid-19 and so be granted more freedoms, such as going to work or travelling abroad.


inews--2020-05-14--Jose Mourinho 'desperate' for Premier League return amid Project Restart proposals

The Tottenham boss insisted he wants football to return 'as soon as it is safe to do so' Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho says he is 'desperate for the Premier League to return ' , becoming the first manager of a big six club to publicly pledge support for the 2019/20 season to resume on June 12 .
Managers and players have been given presentations of the medical protocols being put in place for a return to training next week and playing again , with the intention of reconvening the season next month .
The government have cleared the pathway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go-ahead of professional sports to resume behind closed doors from June 1 , provided there is not a spike in coronavirus infections .
As Premier League club executives have spent weeks arguing and debating various options - including possibly using neutral venues , an idea that received fierce opposition and looks set to be dropped if the government allows it - another stumbling block is convincing the 20 managers and hundreds of players it is safe enough to do so .
Mourinho , however , added his voice to those in favour of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked for any delay , '' Mourinho said in a statement released by his club .
`` I want to train , and I am desperate for the Premier League to return as soon as it is safe to do so , particularly now we are seeing other leagues preparing to return to action .
`` We have all been working extremely hard through remote squad training sessions and isolated running now the pitches are available to use again at the training centre .
`` Every player has been extremely committed in terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wait for clearance to commence working in small groups again , which I will fully support . ''
Clubs have begun testing players for Covid-19 this week to receive results in time to return to training on Monday .
Clubs have been warned by the government not to force any players uncomfortable with the prospect to come back .
Aston Villa manager Dean Smith said that he already had two players who would not be able to play , one who suffers from asthma .
Roy Hodgson , the Crystal Palace manager , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that his club would object to any players who did not want to return .
Tottenham defender Danny Rose , currently on loan at Newcastle United , criticised the Premier League 's plan to restart the season next month ( Picture : Getty ) It is thought that the majority of players are in favour of it , but some of the Premier League ’ s stars , such as Raheem Sterling , Sergio Aguero and Danny Rose , have publicly shared their concerns .
Brighton striker Glenn Murray joined them in urging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ The league ] does need to go on , but if we give ourselves a little bit more time , the country will be back up and running again , we 'll have learned more about this virus , we wo n't necessarily have a vaccine , but we 'll be better prepared to deal with it if anyone does get it .
`` I ca n't understand after loosening the lockdown why we 're in such a rush to get it back when we could just wait a month and see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not see how the country copes with lessening the lockdown without starting unnecessary sports when people are dying all around us , and the death rate is still high.
” Dowden said afterwards : “ We all agreed that we will only go ahead if it is safe to do so and the health and welfare of players , coaches and staff comes first .
`` It is now up to the football authorities to agree and finalise the detail of their plans , and there is combined goodwill to achieve this for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nation as a whole .

Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho says he is “desperate for the Premier League to return”, becoming the first manager of a big six club to publicly pledge support for the 2019-20 season to resume on 12 June.
Managers and players have been given presentations of the medical protocols being put in place for a return to training next week and playing again, with the intention of reconvening the season next month.
The government has cleared the pathway for that to happen, giving the go-ahead for professional sports to resume behind closed doors from 1 June, provided there is not a spike in coronavirus infections.
As Premier League club executives have spent weeks arguing and debating various options – including possibly using neutral venues, an idea that received fierce opposition and looks set to be dropped if the government allows it – another stumbling block is convincing the 20 managers and hundreds of players it is safe enough to do so.
Mourinho, however, added his voice to those in favour of the plans. “I have not asked for any delay,” Mourinho said in a statement released by his club.
“I want to train, and I am desperate for the Premier League to return as soon as it is safe to do so, particularly now we are seeing other leagues preparing to return to action.
“I am extremely proud of the way my players have maintained their fitness – they have shown great professionalism, passion and dedication.
“We have all been working extremely hard through remote squad training sessions and isolated running now the pitches are available to use again at the training centre.
“Every player has been extremely committed in terms of their individual work and now we wait for clearance to commence working in small groups again, which I will fully support.”
Clubs have begun testing players for Covid-19 this week to receive results in time to return to training on Monday. Clubs have been warned by the government not to force any players uncomfortable with the prospect to come back.
Aston Villa manager Dean Smith said that he already had two players who would not be able to play, one who suffers from asthma. Roy Hodgson, the Crystal Palace manager, also indicated that he did not believe that his club would object to any players who did not want to return.
It is thought that the majority of players are in favour of it, but some of the Premier League’s stars, such as Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Danny Rose, have publicly shared their concerns.
Brighton striker Glenn Murray joined them in urging caution on Thursday, saying: “[The league] does need to go on, but if we give ourselves a little bit more time, the country will be back up and running again, we’ll have learned more about this virus, we won’t necessarily have a vaccine, but we’ll be better prepared to deal with it if anyone does get it.
“I can’t understand after loosening the lockdown why we’re in such a rush to get it back when we could just wait a month and see if things go to plan. Why not see how the country copes with lessening the lockdown without starting unnecessary sports when people are dying all around us, and the death rate is still high.”
Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Oliver Dowden met with the Premier League, EFL and Football Association yesterday and “progressed plans for the resumption of the professional game in England.”
Dowden said afterwards: “We all agreed that we will only go ahead if it is safe to do so and the health and welfare of players, coaches and staff comes first.
“The government is opening the door for competitive football to return safely in June. This should include widening access for fans to view live coverage and ensure finances from the game’s resumption supports the wider football family.
“It is now up to the football authorities to agree and finalise the detail of their plans, and there is combined goodwill to achieve this for their fans, the football community and the nation as a whole.
“The Government and our medical experts will continue to offer guidance and support to the game ahead of any final decision which would put these plans into action.”


inews--2020-05-14--Coronavirus: Skye care home facing closure after 'serious concerns' raised

Since the end of April , 30 of the home 's 34 residents have tested positive for Covid-19 as well as 29 staff A care home on Skye where seven people have died of coronavirus is facing closure after an inspection earlier this week raised `` serious and significant ” concerns .
The Care Inspectorate has submitted an application to the courts seeking the cancellation of the registration of Home Farm in Portree , which is operated by HC-One .
NHS Highland had already stepped in to help provide care to residents , with local MSP Kate Forbes saying the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” the home .
Since the end of April , 30 of the home 's 34 residents have tested positive for Covid-19 as well as 29 staff , prompting the Army to open a mobile testing unit on the island .
The Care Inspectorate said it had `` serious and significant concerns '' about the quality of care at the home after an unannounced inspection of the facility on Tuesday .
`` We understand this is a difficult and distressing time for residents , their loved ones and staff at the home , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , our first priority is always the health and wellbeing of residents .
`` We have submitted an application to the sheriff court seeking cancellation of the care home 's registration .
This could mean new care arrangements will be put in place for residents . ''
Asked how concerned she was about the way the care home was being run , Nicola Sturgeon said the steps being taken “ should be an indication that there is real concern there ” .
Skye MSP Kate Forbes said NHS Highland was now effectively running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Highland councillor John Gordon , whose father John Angus died in the home , said it was a `` disgrace '' that local people were being kept in the dark about the circumstances of the outbreak .
`` Everyone just wants clear honesty , even about the staff and residents who are recovering as well as those who are passing away , ” he told the BBC .
An HC-One spokesman said it `` accepted the shortcomings at Home Farm and apologise to our residents , their families , and the local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the Care Inspectorate is taking the steps that it is but we will continue to work in partnership with NHS Highland at the home to implement a robust action plan , with an unwavering focus on delivering the best possible care for residents . ''

A care home on Skye where seven people have died of coronavirus is facing closure after an inspection earlier this week raised “serious and significant” concerns.
The Care Inspectorate has submitted an application to the courts seeking the cancellation of the registration of Home Farm in Portree, which is operated by HC-One.
NHS Highland had already stepped in to help provide care to residents, with local MSP Kate Forbes saying the health board was now “essentially running” the home.
Since the end of April, 30 of the home’s 34 residents have tested positive for Covid-19 as well as 29 staff, prompting the Army to open a mobile testing unit on the island.
‘Significant concerns’
The Care Inspectorate said it had “serious and significant concerns” about the quality of care at the home after an unannounced inspection of the facility on Tuesday.
“We understand this is a difficult and distressing time for residents, their loved ones and staff at the home,” a spokesman said. “However, our first priority is always the health and wellbeing of residents.
“We have submitted an application to the sheriff court seeking cancellation of the care home’s registration. This could mean new care arrangements will be put in place for residents.”
At yesterday’s Scottish Government media briefing, before the Care Inspectorate’s announcement, ministers suggested the concerns centred around a lack of staff and poor infection control.
Asked how concerned she was about the way the care home was being run, Nicola Sturgeon said the steps being taken “should be an indication that there is real concern there”.
Highland councillor John Gordon, whose father John Angus died in the home, said it was a “disgrace” that local people were being kept in the dark about the circumstances of the outbreak.
“Everyone just wants clear honesty, even about the staff and residents who are recovering as well as those who are passing away,” he told the BBC.
‘Threat to lives’
Labour’s health spokeswoman Monica Lennon said the Covid-19 outbreak at Home Farm “remains a threat to the lives of dozens of residents and staff”.
An HC-One spokesman said it “accepted the shortcomings at Home Farm and apologise to our residents, their families, and the local community”.
He added: “We are fully committed to making significant improvements at the home and determined to put things right.
“We are disappointed that the Care Inspectorate is taking the steps that it is but we will continue to work in partnership with NHS Highland at the home to implement a robust action plan, with an unwavering focus on delivering the best possible care for residents.”


inews--2020-05-14--UK lockdown: Pubs and brewers forced to throw away 70m pints of beer spoilt during coronavirus closu

UK lockdown: Pubs and brewers forced to throw away 70m pints of beer spoilt during coronavirus closures

UK lockdown : Pubs and brewers forced to throw away 70m pints of beer spoilt during coronavirus closures Exclusive : With pubs sitting empty , a vast quantity of beer is being destroyed as it goes out of date and loses its flavour British pubs and breweries will be forced to pour 70 million pints of beer down the drain as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown because it will not be fit for consumption when businesses reopen .
All UK pubs were told to close on 21 March as the Government attempted to slow the spread of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July at the earliest , according to the Government ’ s recently published “ road map ” out of lockdown .
Much of the beer left in storage will spoil over this period , leaving pubs and breweries unable to sell it when they begin serving customers again .
The British Beer and Pub Association ( BBPA ) , whose members account for around 90 per cent of all the beer brewed in Britain , estimates that the equivalent of 70m pints of beer will end up going to waste .
Much of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over lockdown , leaving pubs and breweries unable to sell it ( Photo : Getty ) A pint of beer cost £3.79 on average in 2019 , according to the Good Pub Guide , meaning the spoilt beer will represent more than £265m in lost takings for pubs across the country .
The Government has promised brewers and pubs they will be able to claim back the duty paid on the wasted beer , though the BBPA said this would be an “ enormous task for the industry ” .
Andrew Turner , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cornwall ’ s St Austell brewery said his firm had recovered around 15,000 nine-gallon casks from its supply chain around the country and expected to obtain about 5,000 more , containing approximately 1.5m pints .
Some brewers have tried to find other uses for their product in a bid to prevent what they can from going to waste - a small quantity is being used to create organic fertiliser for farming , or in animal feed - but overall the loss of sales has had a “ devastating impact ” on the pub @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Emma McClarkin , chief executive of the BBPA , said that the industry needs “ much more support ” from the Government if it is to survive the Covid-19 crisis .
“ We believe that pubs should only open when [ it is ] safe to do so , but without additional support now - particularly for those who won ’ t be able to re-open sooner - many more of our nation ’ s pubs and the brewers that supply them with beer will struggle to survive closure and beyond , ” @ @ @ @

British pubs and breweries will be forced to pour 70 million pints of beer down the drain as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown because it will not be fit for consumption when businesses reopen.
All UK pubs were told to close on 21 March as the Government attempted to slow the spread of the coronavirus. They will remain shut until 4 July at the earliest, according to the Government’s recently published “road map” out of lockdown.
Down the drain
Much of the beer left in storage will spoil over this period, leaving pubs and breweries unable to sell it when they begin serving customers again.
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), whose members account for around 90 per cent of all the beer brewed in Britain, estimates that the equivalent of 70m pints of beer will end up going to waste.
A pint of beer cost £3.79 on average in 2019, according to the Good Pub Guide, meaning the spoilt beer will represent more than £265m in lost takings for pubs across the country.
The Government has promised brewers and pubs they will be able to claim back the duty paid on the wasted beer, though the BBPA said this would be an “enormous task for the industry”.
‘Heartbreaking’ to destroy beer
Andrew Turner, managing director of beer and brands at Cornwall’s St Austell brewery said his firm had recovered around 15,000 nine-gallon casks from its supply chain around the country and expected to obtain about 5,000 more, containing approximately 1.5m pints.
“It’s all being destroyed because it’s out of date,” Mr Turner said.
“Our brewers are in the process of emptying the kegs out into a drain and tankering it offsite…It’s heartbreaking,” he added.
Struggling pubs
Some brewers have tried to find other uses for their product in a bid to prevent what they can from going to waste – a small quantity is being used to create organic fertiliser for farming, or in animal feed – but overall the loss of sales has had a “devastating impact” on the pub industry, the trade association said.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA, said that the industry needs “much more support” from the Government if it is to survive the Covid-19 crisis.
“We believe that pubs should only open when [it is] safe to do so, but without additional support now – particularly for those who won’t be able to re-open sooner – many more of our nation’s pubs and the brewers that supply them with beer will struggle to survive closure and beyond,” Ms McClarkin said.
“The Government needs to give our sector much more support,” she added.
The Treasury said in a statement: “The Chancellor has outlined an unprecedented package of measures to protect millions of people’s jobs and incomes.”
It added: “We are giving all businesses who need it due to Covid-19, including those in the hospitality sector, more time to pay their tax bills, with no interest or late penalties.”
@kt_grant


inews--2020-05-14--Credit Refund Notes for cancelled holidays are not financially protected, government confirms

Credit Refund Notes for cancelled holidays are not financially protected , government confirms The Government has made contradictory statements while Abta calls for clarity It is estimated that £7bn worth of refunds are owed to consumers for holidays cancelled as a result of Covid-19 since March .
Abta has been putting pressure on the Government to relax Package Travel Regulations temporarily .
This would allow companies longer than the stipulated 14 days to collect money from suppliers and pass it back to their customers .
Since the Foreign Office advised against all non-essential travel , many travel companies have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of refunds , which it is claimed can be exchanged for a refund at a designated time in the future .
Last week , a panel of industry experts - including Abta ’ s CEO Mark Tanzer - offered their views on the pandemic ’ s impact on the industry to the House of Commons Transport Select Committee .
Abta maintains that current regulations were not set up to deal with a crisis of this nature and that flexibility and government support is required to ensure the survival of thousands of businesses .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Notes covering Atol package holidays are and will be financially protected .
Currently , this is at the discretion of the Civil Aviation Authority , which has not made a public statement on the matter .
However , Trading Standards , part of the Department for Business , issued an update that Refund Credit Notes would be financially protected .
The Department for Business has since clarified that there has been no change to regulations and that Refund Credit Notes “ may be ” financially protected .
A Government spokesperson said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their consumers are fairly compensated .
We are keeping the situation under review and looking at options to support businesses and consumers through this difficult period .
A spokesperson for Abta argues that “ the Atol scheme payment policy states that deferred bookings for Atol protected holidays – in other words , credit refunds – are financially protected .
The package travel regulation rules do not need to be changed for this to be the case .
Abta absolutely endorses the need for these refund credits to be documented and processed properly , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear guidance to our Members on this.
” There has been criticism from both consumers and other members of the industry .
Kane Pirie , Managing Director of tour operator Vivid Travel and founder of the “ It ’ s Right to Refund ” initiative , laments the current “ reckless ” and “ chaotic ” situation in which there is “ widespread lawlessness with most travel companies failing to offer real refunds.
” He fears that many companies will fail to renew their Atol in September , brining cover for credit notes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department for Business ’ s “ zig-zag ” on the matter as “ another blow for consumer confidence ” and calls for a more honest approach to the offering , agreeing a few months ’ grace period with customers .
”

It is estimated that £7bn worth of refunds are owed to consumers for holidays cancelled as a result of Covid-19 since March. Abta has been putting pressure on the Government to relax Package Travel Regulations temporarily. This would allow companies longer than the stipulated 14 days to collect money from suppliers and pass it back to their customers.
Since the Foreign Office advised against all non-essential travel, many travel companies have been offering customers Credit Refund Notes in place of refunds, which it is claimed can be exchanged for a refund at a designated time in the future.
Last week, a panel of industry experts – including Abta’s CEO Mark Tanzer – offered their views on the pandemic’s impact on the industry to the House of Commons Transport Select Committee.
Abta maintains that current regulations were not set up to deal with a crisis of this nature and that flexibility and government support is required to ensure the survival of thousands of businesses. Tanzer asked for confirmation that Refund Credit Notes covering Atol package holidays are and will be financially protected. Currently, this is at the discretion of the Civil Aviation Authority, which has not made a public statement on the matter.
However, Trading Standards, part of the Department for Business, issued an update that Refund Credit Notes would be financially protected. The Department for Business has since clarified that there has been no change to regulations and that Refund Credit Notes “may be” financially protected.
A Government spokesperson said: “companies have a legal obligation to ensure their consumers are fairly compensated. We are keeping the situation under review and looking at options to support businesses and consumers through this difficult period.”
An industry in disarray
A spokesperson for Abta argues that “the Atol scheme payment policy states that deferred bookings for Atol protected holidays – in other words, credit refunds – are financially protected. The package travel regulation rules do not need to be changed for this to be the case. Abta absolutely endorses the need for these refund credits to be documented and processed properly, that is why we’ve provided clear guidance to our Members on this.”
There has been criticism from both consumers and other members of the industry. Kane Pirie, Managing Director of tour operator Vivid Travel and founder of the “It’s Right to Refund” initiative, laments the current “reckless” and “chaotic” situation in which there is “widespread lawlessness with most travel companies failing to offer real refunds.” He fears that many companies will fail to renew their Atol in September, brining cover for credit notes into sharp focus. He describes the Department for Business’s “zig-zag” on the matter as “another blow for consumer confidence” and calls for a more honest approach to the offering, agreeing a few months’ grace period with customers.”


inews--2020-05-14--Eurovision 2020 BBC schedule: TV shows replacing the cancelled song contest, from the Come Together

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

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

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


inews--2020-05-14--When will EU borders reopen? Latest coronavirus travel advice as some borders in Europe open ahead o

When will EU borders reopen? Latest coronavirus travel advice as some borders in Europe open ahead of summer holidays

When will EU borders reopen ?
Latest coronavirus travel advice as some borders in Europe open ahead of summer holidays Germany and Austria and the Baltic states are creating 'tourism bubbles' The European Commission has published guidelines for reopening its borders and in doing so , reviving the tourist industry .
Prior to borders closing on 17 March , Europe was the most visited region in the world , employing around 13.6m people .
The Commission is understandably keen to facilitate the sector ’ s safe return , acknowledging that “ domestic and intra-EU tourism will prevail in the short-term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as there is a risk of infection , travelling entails some risks ” .
The first step will be to reopen borders and relax travel restrictions .
This week , recommendations were published for reopening borders within the EU , with a view to restoring the free movement of people .
Until 31 December 2020 , the UK is still considered part of the EU .
The Tourism and Transport Package states that “ travelling abroad will depend on the evolution of the public health situation in Member States ” and that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is likely .
The first stage would see controls being lifted between member states and regions with similar Covid-19 risk profiles .
Measures could be reintroduced should infections start to rise again .
The reopening would take place over three phases , from the current situation that allows only essential travel for key workers , to opening borders between members with a similar Covid-19 profile , and then lifting all restrictions but keeping hygiene measures in place .
Protective masks are being used by train passengers in Germany ( Photo : Getty ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movements are lifted , and will be contingent on certain measures being taken to protect public health .
This includes buying tickets and checking in online , allowing fewer passengers on board and when this is not possible ensuring protective equipment such as masks are used , making sanitising gel available at transport hubs and potentially removing catering facilities .
The Commission has also said that “ access to cross-border flights , or travel more generally , should not be subject to the use of contact tracing apps ” , although member states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be interoperable .
Which border reopenings have been announced so far ?
The next stage will be for member states to assess risk factors and propose dates for barriers to be removed .
So far , Austria and Germany are beginning to relax border restrictions from Friday - when business and family trips will be permitted - the same day that Latvia , Lithuania and Estonia will create a Baltic “ border bubble ” ; they will require other nationalities to quarantine on arrival .
Switzerland is aiming to open borders with Austria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when Iceland will also begin to welcome visitors .

The European Commission has published guidelines for reopening its borders and in doing so, reviving the tourist industry. Prior to borders closing on 17 March, Europe was the most visited region in the world, employing around 13.6m people.
The Commission is understandably keen to facilitate the sector’s safe return, acknowledging that “domestic and intra-EU tourism will prevail in the short-term” while underlining “that as long as there is a risk of infection, travelling entails some risks”. The first step will be to reopen borders and relax travel restrictions.
This week, recommendations were published for reopening borders within the EU, with a view to restoring the free movement of people. Until 31 December 2020, the UK is still considered part of the EU.
A staged and coordinated approach
The Tourism and Transport Package states that “travelling abroad will depend on the evolution of the public health situation in Member States” and that a staged and co-ordinated approach to lifting restrictions is likely. The first stage would see controls being lifted between member states and regions with similar Covid-19 risk profiles. Measures could be reintroduced should infections start to rise again.
The Commission has recommended that EU member states begin to allow unrestricted cross-border movement based on three criteria:
Epidemiological, notably focusing on areas and Member States where the situation is improving, based on the regional map being developed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control The ability to apply containment measures (for example social distancing and hygiene) throughout the whole journey, including at border crossings Economic and social considerations, prioritising cross-border movement in key areas of health, social and economic activity.
The reopening would take place over three phases, from the current situation that allows only essential travel for key workers, to opening borders between members with a similar Covid-19 profile, and then lifting all restrictions but keeping hygiene measures in place.
Trains and planes
Transport will be restored as restrictions on movements are lifted, and will be contingent on certain measures being taken to protect public health. This includes buying tickets and checking in online, allowing fewer passengers on board and when this is not possible ensuring protective equipment such as masks are used, making sanitising gel available at transport hubs and potentially removing catering facilities.
The Commission has also said that “access to cross-border flights, or travel more generally, should not be subject to the use of contact tracing apps”, although member states have agreed that contact tracing apps should be interoperable.
Which border reopenings have been announced so far?
The next stage will be for member states to assess risk factors and propose dates for barriers to be removed. So far, Austria and Germany are beginning to relax border restrictions from Friday – when business and family trips will be permitted – the same day that Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia will create a Baltic “border bubble”; they will require other nationalities to quarantine on arrival. Switzerland is aiming to open borders with Austria, Germany and France by 15 June, when Iceland will also begin to welcome visitors.


inews--2020-05-14--Eurovision 2020: Europe Shine a Light: when the special is on BBC One, and how the special presented

Eurovision 2020: Europe Shine a Light: when the special is on BBC One, and how the special presented by Graham Norton works

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

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


inews--2020-05-15--When is Chelsea Flower Show 2020? Virtual RHS event dates, schedule and how to watch online BBC cove

When is Chelsea Flower Show 2020? Virtual RHS event dates, schedule and how to watch online BBC coverage

When is Chelsea Flower Show 2020 ?
Virtual RHS event dates , schedule and how to watch online BBC coverage Garden-lovers will be given access to behind-the-scenes videos , tours of celebrity gardens and more from the comfort of their own homes The coronavirus pandemic has caused the Chelsea Flower Show to be cancelled for just the second time in its 107-year history .
However , unlike the last time during the Second World War , this year it is able to be held virtually .
Garden-lovers will be given access to behind-the-scenes videos , tours of celebrity gardens and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes .
How to watch the virtual Chelsea Flower Show The show will start on Monday 18 May and go on until Saturday 23 May .
New videos will be released on the site each day , and viewers will also be encouraged to take part by posting pictures of their own gardens and creations on social media using the hashtag # mychelseagarden .
From 17-24 May the BBC will also show clips from the past decade of Chelsea Flower Shows , in programmes presented by Sophie Raworth , Joe Swift , Monty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ General Sue Biggs , said : `` I ’ m delighted that despite such challenging circumstances the BBC are producing a special series of programmes celebrating the world ’ s greatest flower show which will air throughout Virtual Show week on BBC One and Two . ''
What should we expect ?
The RHS says : `` We 're working with our friends and partners across the industry to bring the very best of gardens , plants and products .
Viewers will be able to go on virtual tours of the gardens ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` We ’ re lucky to live in a digital age where we ’ re able to bring aspects of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show online so we can continue to share the world ’ s best in horticulture and bring garden design inspiration , breathtaking displays and horticultural knowledge for the nation to enjoy during this difficult time .
`` We really hope the virtual show will help fill the gap caused by the sad but necessary cancellation of this year ’ s show and will inspire more people to get @ @ @

The coronavirus pandemic has caused the Chelsea Flower Show to be cancelled for just the second time in its 107-year history.
However, unlike the last time during the Second World War, this year it is able to be held virtually.
Garden-lovers will be given access to behind-the-scenes videos, tours of celebrity gardens and more from the comfort of their own homes.
Here is everything you need to know…
How to watch the virtual Chelsea Flower Show
The show will start on Monday 18 May and go on until Saturday 23 May.
Monday is Members Day, with exclusive online content for members only.
To watch, simply head to rhs.org.uk, where all the footage will be streamed.
New videos will be released on the site each day, and viewers will also be encouraged to take part by posting pictures of their own gardens and creations on social media using the hashtag #mychelseagarden.
From 17-24 May the BBC will also show clips from the past decade of Chelsea Flower Shows, in programmes presented by Sophie Raworth, Joe Swift, Monty Don and Nicky Chapman.
The programming includes:
Sunday 17 May at 3.45pm and Sunday 24 May at 5.50pm (BBC One) – two 60-minute programmes presented by Sophie Raworth and Joe Swift
Monday 18 – Friday 22 May at 3.45pm (BBC One) – 45 minutes a day presented by Nicki Chapman
Monday 18 – Friday 22 May at 8pm (BBC Two) – 60 minutes a day presented by Monty Don and Joe Swift
RHS Director General Sue Biggs, said: “I’m delighted that despite such challenging circumstances the BBC are producing a special series of programmes celebrating the world’s greatest flower show which will air throughout Virtual Show week on BBC One and Two.”
What should we expect?
The RHS says: “We’re working with our friends and partners across the industry to bring the very best of gardens, plants and products.
“Well-known garden designers, florists and gardening personalities share new videos and inspirational articles with top design tips, favourite planting combinations and gardening trends.”
Among the highlights will be:
Daily videos from well-known gardening presenters and experts
Interactive lunchtime Q&A sessions with RHS advisors and special guests
Behind-the-scenes tours from award-winning nurseries
A chance to vote for your favourite plants, products and gardens
A daily school gardening club with activities for families to grow plants and connect with nature
Ms Biggs said: “We’re lucky to live in a digital age where we’re able to bring aspects of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show online so we can continue to share the world’s best in horticulture and bring garden design inspiration, breathtaking displays and horticultural knowledge for the nation to enjoy during this difficult time.
“We really hope the virtual show will help fill the gap caused by the sad but necessary cancellation of this year’s show and will inspire more people to get growing.”
My Chelsea Garden competition
The virtual nature of this year’s show gives viewers more ability than ever to get involved.
The My Chelsea Garden competition, which is run jointly by the BBC’s The One Show and the RHS.
Viewers can enter their own gardens to be judged using the hashtag, and have a chance of winning tickets to next year’s show, plus a special RHS commendation.


inews--2020-05-15--How pubs and bars are reopening in Syndey and Wisconsin after coronavirus lockdown

How pubs and bars are reopening in Syndey and Wisconsin after coronavirus lockdown A legal challenge in Wisconsin , US , meant some bar owners are serving once more While most pubs and restaurants in the US remain shut , mirroring the UK , which will see some establishments open on 4 July `` at the earliest '' , a number in the rural US state of Wisconsin have reopened after a legal challenge by Republican lawmakers .
Bar owners in the Midwest state were given the green light after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled the Democratic governor , Tony @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to impose a statewide coronavirus lockdown , sparking a mix of hope and confusion among struggling business owners .
Soon after the ruling to relax rules was announced , locals rushed to bars and restaurants to enjoy a beer or three , with many revellers pictures without masks , and seemingly ignoring social distancing guidelines .
'It 's the Wild , Wild West right now' New South Wales is opening back up ( Photo : Cameron Spencer/Getty Images ) As hospitality businesses filled up , Ms Palm urged residents to stay home , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and warned that the cooling of restrictions risk `` increasing our cases and deaths '' .
But one bar owner , Junior Useling , 71 , said : `` Why would I stay closed ?
...
I got mortgages and bills .
My God , if we kept on going we would all be broke , '' he told Reuters .
`` This country is supposed to be free to do what you want . ''
The decision came at state-level , but counties within it are acting differently .
Some local leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as in Dane , Brown and Kenosha , kept their lockdowns in place .
Kristine Hillmer , president of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association , said members should follow local guidance : `` The rest of the state they can open 100 per cent however they want .
It 's a little bit of the Wild Wild West right now . ''
Wisconsin is an oddity and a microcosm .
In the wider US , like in the UK , the hospitality industry looks set to face an uphill struggle to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice .
Elsewhere , businesses are being allowed to return to a degree of normality , however .
In Sydney , New South Wales , Australia , many cafes and restaurants have opened again as some coronavirus restrictions were lifted .
Australia 's most populous state of New South Wales began allowing cafes , restaurants and places of worship to reopen with up to 10 people on the condition they adhere to social distancing rules .
`` Let 's please do our part in keeping everybody safe so that all of us can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ever go backwards , '' she said .
`` That 's really , really critical . ''
New South Wales reported eight new cases of the virus on Friday , bringing the state total to a little over 3,000 .
Australia has reported a total of about 7,000 cases and 98 deaths linked to coronavirus .

While most pubs and restaurants in the US remain shut, mirroring the UK, which will see some establishments open on 4 July “at the earliest”, a number in the rural US state of Wisconsin have reopened after a legal challenge by Republican lawmakers.
Bar owners in the Midwest state were given the green light after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled the Democratic governor, Tony Evers, does not have the power to impose a statewide coronavirus lockdown, sparking a mix of hope and confusion among struggling business owners.
The court agreed on Thursday that the state’s top public health official, Andrea Palm, exceeded her authority by imposing a stay-at-home order until 26 May.
Soon after the ruling to relax rules was announced, locals rushed to bars and restaurants to enjoy a beer or three, with many revellers pictures without masks, and seemingly ignoring social distancing guidelines.
‘It’s the Wild, Wild West right now’
As hospitality businesses filled up, Ms Palm urged residents to stay home, even if allowed to do otherwise, and warned that the cooling of restrictions risk “increasing our cases and deaths”.
But one bar owner, Junior Useling, 71, said: “Why would I stay closed? … I got mortgages and bills. My God, if we kept on going we would all be broke,” he told Reuters. “This country is supposed to be free to do what you want.”
Wisconsin had recorded 11,380 coronavirus cases and 433 deaths as of Thursday.
The decision came at state-level, but counties within it are acting differently. Some local leaders in cities such as Milwaukee and Appleton, as well as in Dane, Brown and Kenosha, kept their lockdowns in place.
Kristine Hillmer, president of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association, said members should follow local guidance: “The rest of the state they can open 100 per cent however they want. It’s a little bit of the Wild Wild West right now.”
Pubs and clubs open to diners
Wisconsin is an oddity and a microcosm. In the wider US, like in the UK, the hospitality industry looks set to face an uphill struggle to reopen, with lawmakers acting on scientific advice.
Elsewhere, businesses are being allowed to return to a degree of normality, however. In Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, many cafes and restaurants have opened again as some coronavirus restrictions were lifted.
Australia’s most populous state of New South Wales began allowing cafes, restaurants and places of worship to reopen with up to 10 people on the condition they adhere to social distancing rules.
Pubs and clubs were also permitted to open, but only for dining.
State premier Gladys Berejiklian warned people to take personal responsibility, saying that easing restrictions in some other countries had backfired.
“Let’s please do our part in keeping everybody safe so that all of us can keep moving forward so that we never, ever go backwards,” she said. “That’s really, really critical.”
New South Wales reported eight new cases of the virus on Friday, bringing the state total to a little over 3,000. Australia has reported a total of about 7,000 cases and 98 deaths linked to coronavirus.
Back in Europe, while the UK is a way off, some countries are gearing up to reopen. In Italy, regional governments will be allowed to open the likes of bars and restaurants from 18 May.
Additional reporting by Reuters and PA


inews--2020-05-15--Coronavirus travel advice: will summer holidays be cancelled? Latest travel updates from France, Spa

Coronavirus travel advice: will summer holidays be cancelled? Latest travel updates from France, Spain, Greece, TUI, Ryanair and more

Coronavirus travel advice : will the summer holidays be cancelled ?
Travel updates from France , Spain , Greece , TUI , Ryanair and more The UK and France could be possible , but Spain looks less likely , while TUI looks ahead to a later and longer season July and August are usually two of the busiest months in the travel calendar .
However , the Health Secretary Matt Hancock has indicated that the summer season for holidays abroad is very likely to be cancelled , telling ITV 's This Morning that it is `` unlikely that big , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be possible this summer . ''
The Foreign Office continues to advise against all non-essential international travel , and the Government will soon require all arrivals into the UK to quarantine for a 14-day period .
The intention is that this will not be a requirement for arrivals from France and the Common Travel Area ( Ireland , the Isle of Man and Channel Islands ) , although Ireland requires arrivals to quarantine for two weeks , with the exception of Northern Ireland arrivals .
Iceland , Portugal and Greece plan to welcome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Algarve tourist office has said that the region will be ready to receive visitors once international borders reopen .
Three-quarters of its hotels are expected to be open by mid-June , with a ful reopening by July .
Beaches will reopen in June , with new health and safety measures in place .
The Portuguese Environment Agency will set out rules in the coming days .
The Algarve has recorded 340 Covid-19 cases since January .
Noel Josephides , director of industry issues at AITO – The Specialist Travel Association , says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays is likely to materialise at the last minute and is likely to be slow in getting off the ground .
Many factors will be part of the decision-making mix : which countries will still be in lock-down , for example .
No doubt there will be countries that may not wish to welcome British visitors until the situation in the UK is clearer.
” When the islands welcome tourists again `` will depend on how the borders are opened once the COVID-19 crisis is over '' he said , emphasising the importance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reference and example of a safe destination in Spain and in Europe '' and that they are working to develop `` protocols and plans to guarantee that the tourism industry can reopen its doors with the highest level of security . ''
When can we start visiting France ?
French President Emmanuel Macron wears a face mask during the visit of the military field hospital outside the Emile Muller Hospital in Mulhouse , eastern France ( Photo : Mathieu Cugnot/AFP/Getty ) However , President Macron and Prime Minister Boris Johnson have spoken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , European and international cooperation in the fight against Covid-19 ” .
The British government has announced that quarantine measures will not apply to arrivals from France .
The two leaders have agreed to work together on the consultation over the coming weeks , indicating a reciprocal agreement allowing British nationals to enter France without the need to quarantine once borders reopen , nor the need to quarantine on their return home .
A spokesperson for the Spanish Tourist Office said : “ It ’ s still unknown how the pandemic will evolve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the summer season .
This won ’ t just depend on the situation in Spain but also on the situation in our source markets .
The opening of borders will depend on the evolution of the health crisis .
Safety is our first priority.
” If I decide to postpone my TUI summer holiday , will I be able to move it to next summer without paying any more ?
However , if you are due to depart before 11 June , and booked before 17 March , you can change the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be asked to pay the difference if it is more expensive or you will be refunded the difference if it is cheaper .
The same will apply if your holiday is cancelled , although you ’ d also be entitled to a refund .
The German-owned holiday giant has announced plans to reduce costs by 30 per cent across the group , affecting up to 8,000 jobs globally .
However , it has pledged to `` reinvent the holiday '' this year and assured customers that it is ready to resume operations once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of its hotels will open in Germany in the coming days .
CEO Fritz Joussen said : `` For 2020 we will also reinvent the holiday : new destinations , changed travel seasons , new local offerings , more digitalisation . ''
The company has implemented a 10-point plan for increased hygiene measures .
I ’ ve paid a deposit for a summer holiday and have been asked to settle the balance .
Should I pay ?
If you can and it is a financially protected package , yes .
An Atol-bonded holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paid is safe , and by paying the balance on time , you won ’ t be contravening the agreement you entered into when committing to the holiday - most operators ask for the money 10-12 weeks before departure .
If the trip is cancelled , you are entitled to all of your money back , but if you don ’ t pay the balance , you risk losing your deposit .
Is the UK a safe bet for a summer holiday ?

July and August are usually two of the busiest months in the travel calendar. However, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock has indicated that the summer season for holidays abroad is very likely to be cancelled, telling ITV’s This Morning that it is “unlikely that big, lavish, international holidays are going to be possible this summer.”
The Foreign Office continues to advise against all non-essential international travel, and the Government will soon require all arrivals into the UK to quarantine for a 14-day period. The intention is that this will not be a requirement for arrivals from France and the Common Travel Area (Ireland, the Isle of Man and Channel Islands), although Ireland requires arrivals to quarantine for two weeks, with the exception of Northern Ireland arrivals.
Spain has also announced that all visitors must quarantine for 14 days on arrival, starting 15 May, putting the country’s sun-kissed coastline and islands out of reach until further notice.
Iceland, Portugal and Greece plan to welcome visitors this summer
The Government of Iceland announced that it expects to start easing restrictions on international arrivals from 15 June. Visitors are expected to be given the choice of being tested for Covid-19 upon arrival, or otherwise prove that they are free of infection.
In southern Portugal, the Algarve tourist office has said that the region will be ready to receive visitors once international borders reopen. Three-quarters of its hotels are expected to be open by mid-June, with a ful reopening by July. Beaches will reopen in June, with new health and safety measures in place. The Portuguese Environment Agency will set out rules in the coming days. The Algarve has recorded 340 Covid-19 cases since January.
Greece is keen to kickstart its tourist economy, hoping to welcome visitors from 1 July, perhaps contingent on arrivals being permitted into the country only if they have been confirmed to be Covid-free.
Border bubbles
European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen cautioned that nobody can make reliable forecasts as to when borders will reopen and urged people not to make summer holiday plans in Europe. However, the European commission is now drafting plans to create tourism “bubbles” – allowing countries to open borders with similar coronavirus epidemiology profiles. In the Baltic states, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia will open their borders to each other from 15 May.
Restrictions and quarantine requirements have resulted in increased interest for domestic summer holidays. The Government has said that hospitality venues could potentially begin to reopen from 4 July, should the rate of infection remain below 1, offering some hope for businesses and holidaymakers.
Meanwhile, Ryanair has announced that it plans to restart 40 per cent of its flying schedule from the beginning of July.
Noel Josephides, director of industry issues at AITO – The Specialist Travel Association, says: “New interest in peak season holidays is likely to materialise at the last minute and is likely to be slow in getting off the ground. Many factors will be part of the decision-making mix: which countries will still be in lock-down, for example. No doubt there will be countries that may not wish to welcome British visitors until the situation in the UK is clearer.”
Iago Negueruela, the Balearic Minister for Tourism said that Spain’s Mediterranean islands would likely remain closed until August and the return of British visitors will be encouraged in a safe manner. The islands are the second most popular Spanish destination for British visitors with more than 3.5 million arrivals each year.
When the islands welcome tourists again “will depend on how the borders are opened once the COVID-19 crisis is over” he said, emphasising the importance that “the archipelago continues to be a reference and example of a safe destination in Spain and in Europe” and that they are working to develop “protocols and plans to guarantee that the tourism industry can reopen its doors with the highest level of security.”
When can we start visiting France?
France is now emerging from lockdown, but its borders remain closed to non-EU citizens until further notice (British nationals are considered EU nationals until the end of this year). According to a spokesperson for the France Tourism Development Agency, the country’s tourism sector is expected to remain closed until mid-July.
However, President Macron and Prime Minister Boris Johnson have spoken about the “need for close bilateral, European and international cooperation in the fight against Covid-19”. The British government has announced that quarantine measures will not apply to arrivals from France. The two leaders have agreed to work together on the consultation over the coming weeks, indicating a reciprocal agreement allowing British nationals to enter France without the need to quarantine once borders reopen, nor the need to quarantine on their return home.
Can I get a refund for an easyJet flight to Malaga in late July?
EasyJet’s fleet has been grounded until further notice, with Easter and summer 2021 flights now on sale. Customers with cancelled bookings have the option to request a refund (by phone), rebook for any other flight until March 2021 or accept a voucher for the value of their booking, valid until summer 2021.
The airline has not indicated when flights will resume but is maintaining its fleet in order to be able to partially re-start flights with around two weeks’ notice.
However, with quarantine rules now applying in both directions for trips to Spain, a summer holiday on the Costas looks unlikely, requiring 14 days of isolation on arrival in Spain, and on return back to the UK, until further notice. This would make easyJet’s resumption of commercial flights to Spain unlikely until the measures are relaxed.
A spokesperson for the Spanish Tourist Office said: “It’s still unknown how the pandemic will evolve so it is impossible to make forecasts about the summer season. This won’t just depend on the situation in Spain but also on the situation in our source markets. The opening of borders will depend on the evolution of the health crisis. Safety is our first priority.”
If I decide to postpone my TUI summer holiday, will I be able to move it to next summer without paying any more?
TUI beach holidays have been cancelled until 11 June, with later departures “continually reviewed”. If you have booked a holiday due to depart after this date, you should assume it will go ahead and that amendment fees will apply.
However, if you are due to depart before 11 June, and booked before 17 March, you can change the date to another holiday. You will be asked to pay the difference if it is more expensive or you will be refunded the difference if it is cheaper. The same will apply if your holiday is cancelled, although you’d also be entitled to a refund.
The German-owned holiday giant has announced plans to reduce costs by 30 per cent across the group, affecting up to 8,000 jobs globally. However, it has pledged to “reinvent the holiday” this year and assured customers that it is ready to resume operations once travel restrictions are lifted. A number of its hotels will open in Germany in the coming days. CEO Fritz Joussen said: “For 2020 we will also reinvent the holiday: new destinations, changed travel seasons, new local offerings, more digitalisation.” The company has implemented a 10-point plan for increased hygiene measures.
I’ve paid a deposit for a summer holiday and have been asked to settle the balance. Should I pay?
If you can and it is a financially protected package, yes. An Atol-bonded holiday means that any money you’ve paid is safe, and by paying the balance on time, you won’t be contravening the agreement you entered into when committing to the holiday – most operators ask for the money 10-12 weeks before departure. If the trip is cancelled, you are entitled to all of your money back, but if you don’t pay the balance, you risk losing your deposit.
However, if your financial circumstances are uncertain, speak to your operator about your options before paying the balance.
Is the UK a safe bet for a summer holiday?
Boris Johnson has announed that as part of the three-part phased plan to reopen society, hospitality venues including hotels, B&Bs and self-catering accommodation, could reopen from 4 July, providing they meet new Covid Secure Guidelines to ensure public health and safety.
However, the nation’s beauty spots are cautious about welcoming a surge of holidaymakers after lockdown, with many destinations such as Cumbria, Wales and Scotland, urging visitors to stay away. If infection rates continue to fall, it is possible that they may gradually begin to welcome visitors this summer, although this is likely to be in a controlled manner.
If you are considering a self-catering holiday, it would be advisable to book with a company that is offering flexible rebooking options.


inews--2020-05-15--When is the next bank holiday? Why the first May long weekend was on a Friday - and full list of 202

When is the next bank holiday? Why the first May long weekend was on a Friday - and full list of 2020 UK holidays

When is the next bank holiday ?
Why the first May long weekend was on a Friday - and full list of 2020 UK holidays The coronavirus lockdown restrictions mean some of this year 's bank holidays will be very different to usual For many people , bank holidays are some of the high points of the year , giving us a few bonus days off to travel down to the beach or to fly off to Prague on a whim .
That 's not to say they wo n't be welcome , though - many will be eagerly counting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time off work to recharge the batteries , even if it 's just for a daily exercise walk and a family Zoom quiz .
Here are all the dates you need to know , and why 2020 's bank holidays are following a slightly different pattern to usual .
Why was the first May bank holiday on Friday ?
One of our two May bank holidays , the early one , known as May Day , was moved by the Government to coincide with the 75th anniversary of VE Day , or Victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ensure that the long weekend would coincide with the extended 75th anniversary celebrations of the surrender of Nazi Germany , which ended the Second World War in Europe .
As part of the VE Day commemorations , more than 20,000 pubs were going to encourage drinkers to toast the heroes of the war , while churches were set to take part in a Ringing Out For Peace .
However , like all other mass gatherings and general activities involving leaving our homes , all public VE Day events were cancelled - so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In total , there are six days in 2020 for those living in England , Scotland , Wales , and Northern Ireland , though some nations have additional holidays .
Here is a list of 2020 's bank holidays : As ever , there are various other key dates to remember in 2020 .
None provide paid , free time off work but all are important nonetheless .
Other dates for your diary :

For many people, bank holidays are some of the high points of the year, giving us a few bonus days off to travel down to the beach or to fly off to Prague on a whim.
However, like everything else, the coronavirus outbreak and ensuing lockdown restrictions mean that the majority of the nation’s long weekends have proved very different so far this year.
That’s not to say they aren’t welcome, though – many will be eagerly counting down the days to get some precious time off work to recharge the batteries, even if they still can’t do absolutely everything they want to.
Here are all the dates you need to know, and why 2020’s bank holidays have followed a slightly different pattern to usual.
When is the next bank holiday?
This year, the next bank holiday for England, Wales and Northern Ireland falls on Monday 31 August – it always coincides with the final Monday of the month.
Therefore last year’s day off was on Monday 26 August, and the 2021 bank holiday falls on Monday 30 August.
Both of May’s long weekends fell during a time when lockdown measures were more universally stringent in the UK, as did the two Easter bank holidays.
However, not only are there far more options available now (except for those people subject to local lockdown rules), there is the added bonus of 31 August coinciding with the final day of the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme.
Why was the first May bank holiday moved to a Friday?
One of our two May bank holidays, the early one, known as May Day, was moved by the Government to coincide with the 75th anniversary of VE Day, or Victory Day in Europe.
This was meant to ensure that the long weekend would coincide with the extended 75th anniversary celebrations marking the surrender of Nazi Germany, which ended the Second World War in Europe.
As part of the VE Day commemorations, more than 20,000 pubs were going to encourage drinkers to toast the heroes of the war, while churches were set to take part in a Ringing Out For Peace.
However, like all other mass gatherings and general activities involving leaving our homes, all public VE Day events were cancelled – so all commemorations had to be kept indoors.
Here is a list of 2020’s bank holidays
In total, there are six days in 2020 for those living in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, though some nations have additional holidays.
New Year’s Day: Wednesday 1 January
New Year’s Holiday: Thursday 2 January (Scotland only)
St Patrick’s Day: Tuesday 17 March (Northern Ireland only)
Good Friday: Friday 10 April
Easter Monday: Monday 13 April (England, Wales and Northern Ireland only)
Early May bank holiday: Friday 8 May
Spring bank holiday: Monday 25 May
Battle of the Boyne (substitute day): Monday 13 July (Northern Ireland only)
Summer bank holiday: Monday 3 August (Scotland only)
Summer bank holiday: Monday 31 August (England, Wales and Northern Ireland only)
St Andrew’s Day: Monday 30 November (Scotland only)
Christmas Day: Friday 25 December
Boxing Day (substitute day): Monday 28 December
As ever, there are various other key dates to remember in 2020. None provide paid, free time off work but all carry importance nonetheless.
Other dates for your diary: