bbcuk--2020-04-16--Coronavirus fines: Lancashire Police issues most lockdown penalties

More than 3,200 fines have been issued for alleged breaches of the coronavirus lockdown by police forces in England .
The National Police Chiefs Council said people as old as 100 were given the £60 penalties from 27 March to 13 April .
Nearly 40 fines mistakenly issued to children were withdrawn .
Deputy Chief Constable Sara Glen said Lancashire Police handed out the most with 380 due to `` barbecues , parties and Blackpool beaches '' , followed by Thames Valley with 219 and Surrey with 205 .
Some 82 per cent of fines were given to men , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with three per cent unknown .
A third of fines go to those aged 18 to 24 , with a further third going to those aged 25 to 34 .
The £60 fines for breaching the lockdown are reduced to £30 if paid within two weeks .
Ms Glen - the National Police Chiefs Council lead for charging and out of court disposals - said visitors to Blackpool may be why Lancashire 's tally was so high .
`` We absolutely see [ high ] temperatures and coastal resorts having a challenge there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` very much due to barbecues , house parties ... Blackpool , beaches , you 've got a lot going on there in terms of temperature , location , context . ''
Lancashire 's Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods said the force 's response to the new law was `` very proportionate '' .
`` We are very organised and got access to tickets on our devices within an hour . ''
Sussex Police Chief Constable Giles York said his force had fined sun-seekers who had travelled more than 100 miles to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police issued the lowest number of fines - issuing two penalties .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to look after your mental health National Police Chiefs Council chairperson Martin Hewitt admitted there had been a `` very small number '' of errors in applying the new law adding police officers were `` trying to do their best in very , very difficult and unusual circumstances '' .
• Thirty nine fines wrongly issued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five outstanding charges which are yet to go before the court would be dropped • Greater Manchester Police arrested a man dropping off food for vulnerable family members which Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said was `` very embarrassing '' • A South Yorkshire Police officer appeared to tell a family they were not allowed to play in their own front garden Mr Hewitt said : `` Of course there have been mistakes and I think we have been very quick to come forward when we have made mistakes . ''

Some 82 per cent of fines were given to men, and 15 per cent to women, with three per cent unknown. A third of fines go to those aged 18 to 24, with a further third going to those aged 25 to 34.


bbcuk--2020-04-16--Coronavirus: 'Disproportionate impact on BAME groups'

A council boss has urged the government to reveal how it is monitoring the rate of BAME coronavirus infections after two Filipino hospital porters died .
Oxford City Council deputy leader Linda Smith wrote to Health Secretary Matt Hancock about the `` disproportionate '' impact on BAME communities .
Oscar King Jr and Elbert Rico were two `` popular and hard-working men '' , Oxford 's John Radcliffe Hospital said .
Ms Smith said she was also concerned about protective equipment supplies .
However she said the `` disproportionate ratio '' of BAME communities being affected by Covid-19 was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who have lost their lives '' .
The Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre ( ICNARC ) found last week that 34 % of critically ill coronavirus patients in England , Wales and Northern Ireland were from black or minority ethnic backgrounds .
According to the 2011 Census , just 14 % of the UK population is from those backgrounds .
Ms Smith wrote : `` We would like some reassurance about what urgent monitoring is being conducted into why this is happening [ and ] what is being done to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any who are especially vulnerable , for instance through their frontline work with patients infected with Covid-19 . ''
Ms Smith also said residents had raised concerns that supplies of PPE `` may not be sufficient '' to `` those working in social care , primary care , as well as non-clinical and outsourced staff in hospitals '' .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • STRESS : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The BBC revealed it had seen leaked emails which showed some protective gowns and masks could be reused by health workers under `` last resort '' Public Health England plans to preserve stocks .
The British Medical Association said it `` underlines the urgency '' of protective equipment shortages but Public Health England said no decisions had been made .

Ms Smith wrote: "We would like some reassurance about what urgent monitoring is being conducted into why this is happening [and] what is being done to ensure the protection of all citizens but particularly any who are especially vulnerable, for instance through their frontline work with patients infected with Covid-19."


bbcuk--2020-04-15--Coronavirus: Major UK takeaway chains start to reopen

Three major takeaway chains in the UK have announced limited reopening programmes after closing during the coronavirus lockdown .
Burger King , KFC and Pret A Manger are opening certain restaurants around the country for delivery only .
Government guidelines state that while restaurants and pubs have to close , they can prepare food for collection or delivery .
The chains had decided to temporarily close as the lockdown took effect .
Burger King is to reopen four restaurants : two in Bristol , one in Coventry , and one in Swindon , with a pared-down menu .
Staff will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trained in running delivery-only kitchens hygienically , the fast food chain said .
There will be stringent cleaning measures , and staff will get social distancing training .
The restaurants will also donate 1,000 meals per week to staff working at NHS hospitals in the vicinity of the reopened restaurants .
Katie Evans , marketing director at the chain , said Burger King hoped the re-openings would go `` some way to lifting our customers ' spirits in these difficult times '' .
She added : `` We want to demonstrate how appreciative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ NHS staff ] efforts in these unprecedented times . ''
KFC said it had reopened 11 UK restaurants in the past week for delivery only , with a limited menu .
The restaurants are in Aldershot , Birmingham , Glasgow , Ipswich , London , Manchester , Portsmouth , Stockport , and Tamworth .
The fast food chain says it has donated `` thousands of meals from all our open restaurants to those on the frontline , including the NHS and key workers , in partnership with Deliveroo , and will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation continues '' .
KFC said it had decided to close temporarily on 23 March `` with the wellbeing of our teams and guests in mind '' .
A spokesperson said : `` We 've spent the time since closure developing new processes to ensure we can reopen carefully and responsibly , which we 've now started to do .
`` We also saw the impact the situation is having on those who may not be able to easily get to the supermarkets , like key workers .
There 's a need for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do our part . ''
The spokesperson added that furloughed staff would find their jobs `` waiting for them when we are able to fully reopen '' .
Pret a Manger will reopen 10 shop kitchens near London hospitals from Thursday .
`` This allows us to also get our supply chain up and running to donate food to homeless charities , so we will be donating 7,000 additional meals per week to our homeless charity partners , '' the chain said in a statement .
NHS workers will get half-price food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's chief executive officer Pano Christou wrote in a blog post that NHS workers and hospitals want to be able to get `` freshly made food nearby '' .
`` We are incredibly grateful that 160 team members have volunteered to help reopen 10 shops in London , located close to hospitals . ''
Food delivery firm Deliveroo has raised more than £1.5m from customer donations and corporate funding for free meals for NHS workers .
While the business declined to reveal overall order volumes , it said 3,000 new restaurants had signed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Financial Times in March suggested that delivery apps could be feeling the pinch due to restaurant closures and as coronavirus anxiety continues .
However , Deliveroo said it is seeing more orders from families , especially on Friday and Saturday nights .
The majority of dishes it delivers are pizza , fish and chips , and burgers , it said .
It added that it had also started to deliver food from stores including Morrisons , McColls , M & S and BP service stations .
Rival delivery firm Just Eat also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up since the lockdown was announced .
The firm has seen a 36 % rise in orders for desserts , and said customers are ordering food earlier in the day , and earlier in the week .
While fast food is very popular in the UK , there have been warnings about its effects on people 's health for a number of years .
In February , BBC One documentary `` The Truth About Takeaways '' found that over two weeks of eating two fast food meals per day , participants gained body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased risk of cardiovascular disease .
Eating two takeaways per week `` is associated with increased body weight and various cardiovascular risk markers '' , Dr Ian G Davies , Reader in Nutritional Science at Liverpool John Moores University , told the programme .
In general , pizza has the highest salt , fat and energy density compared with other fast foods .

"We also saw the impact the situation is having on those who may not be able to easily get to the supermarkets, like key workers. There's a need for affordable, accessible food and we wanted to do our part."


bbcuk--2020-04-16--Coronavirus: The businesses crowdfunding to survive

`` Running a small business is touch and go at the best of times , '' says Rachel Ho , director of an independent coffee shop in Tottenham , north London .
And these , it seems fair to say , are far from the best of times .
Ahead of warnings the UK 's economy could shrink by 35 % , the Treasury set aside billions to keep businesses afloat during the coronavirus lockdown .
But for many , access to that funding is proving too difficult or too slow - and fewer than 2 % of the 300,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are thought to have reached fruition so far .
After being told she was not eligible for a grant because she pays business rates via her landlord , and after getting `` nowhere '' with her insurance claim , Ms Ho decided to set up a crowdfunding page for Craving Coffee , which she owns with her husband Matt .
Within 24 hours , they had raised two thirds of their £25,000 target .
The team at the coffee shop were `` blown away '' , Ms Ho tells the BBC .
Without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rent , loan repayments , suppliers and utility bills , the business was set to `` go under '' , she says .
`` We were prepared to go bankrupt .
We knew the lockdown would outlast any reserves we had . ''
When the lockdown announcement came , they told their staff there were no more shifts and sold off as much stock as possible to recoup what they could .
`` That was a very emotional and stressful day . ''
But in the end , Ms Ho says , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - with donations ranging from £5 to £1,000 .
`` Tottenham is really good like that .
It 's an area where people really get behind things , '' she says .
`` I 'm not surprised by the passion but I 'm a little bit overwhelmed by the amounts people have given . ''
And Craving Coffee is not the only business taking this approach .
US crowdfunding website GoFundMe says it has seen a 246 % rise in British business campaigns compared with the same time last year , while UK-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as a doubling of its daily website traffic .
Crowdfunding can be a lifeline for some businesses , but other avenues of funding are available .
Some crowdfunded businesses fail even in normal times and for those investing money through crowdfunding , there is a risk of losing that money if the business goes under .
However , some people consider their contribution as a donation , so may be less concerned about the risk .
There are various different forms of crowdfunding .
One new scheme from Crowdfunder , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encourages businesses to offer something in exchange for donations .
At Craving Coffee , offerings ranged from drinks , food and clothing , to invitations to a reopening party .
And businesses using different platforms have taken a similar approach .
• 'My firm is viable – but I can ’ t get a loan' • ‘ My business could go bust if insurers don ’ t pay ’ The business - Captain Fantastic - employed five full-time staff and 40 entertainers before coronavirus .
It was putting on about 200 children 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postponing their parties , '' he says .
`` We had 200 bookings a month , then it started to drop , then everyone started postponing , then they cancelled .
We went down to zero . ''
It had taken 10 years for Mr Fox and co-founder Tommy Balaam to build up a business that ground to a halt in a matter of days .
They furloughed some staff , but that is where government support ended .
The business operates from home offices , so they are not eligible for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather than salaries .
Realising they needed to offer something different , Mr Fox and Mr Balaam launched free online entertainment videos for children , and asked for donations in return via GoFundMe and PayPal .
More than 6,000 people tuned in to their first live video , and their followers on Facebook soon rose from 3,000 to more than 50,000 .
Captain Fantastic now does 30 live sessions a week , with the donations split between the entertainers involved in each video .
`` It 's not much at all but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it gives our entertainers something to pay their rent with , '' says Mr Fox .
`` It keeps us afloat and that is what we wanted .
At the moment , we can survive . ''
• What help is the government offering to self-employed people ?
• Life on furlough : I 'm grateful but it 's unsettling The Treasury told the BBC that local authorities were working to ensure `` eligible ratepayers '' receive the grants they are entitled to , adding that those that are not entitled to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
But even those who are entitled to other support are struggling to access it , or finding it is not enough .
Dave Grant is the managing director of Fierce Beer , an Aberdeen-based craft brewery that has seen its sales drop by 75 % due to the lockdown .
The company used the government furlough scheme for some of its staff and got business rate relief - but still needed cash to survive .
Mr Grant applied for one of the government-backed loans announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bank after being told his company was `` not a viable business '' .
In the end , he turned to crowdfunding , offering people a 50 % return on their pledge - `` Spend 50 quid to get 75 quid 's worth of beer ... it 's easy for people to recognise what they 're going to get . ''
`` We could n't honestly believe it , '' says Mr Grant .
`` We were constantly refreshing the total and it was unbelievable .
It was so nice to think so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
So what is it that inspires such generosity , is it simply the promise of free goods or services ?
`` I think people are starting to realise that we 're going to have to work together to get through this , '' says Ms Ho .
`` I think everyone 's feeling so helpless , they just want to help where they can ... and they want the business to be here when they get back . ''

It is important to note some crowdfunded businesses fail even in normal times, and for those investing money through crowdfunding, there is a risk of losing that money if the business goes under. However, those considering their contribution a donation may be less concerned about the risk.


bbcuk--2020-04-16--Eastern Europeans to be flown in to pick fruit and veg

Eastern European farm workers are being flown to the UK on charter flights to pick fruit and vegetable crops .
Air Charter Service has told the BBC that the first flight will land on Thursday in Stansted carrying 150 Romanian farm workers .
The firm told the BBC that the plane is the first of up to six set to operate between mid-April and the end of June .
Government department Defra said it was encouraging people across the UK `` to help bring the harvest in '' .
British farmers recently warned that crops could be left to rot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of seasonal workers from Eastern Europe .
Travel restrictions due to the coronavirus lockdown have meant most workers have stayed at home .
Several UK growers have launched a recruitment drive , calling for local workers to join the harvest to prevent millions of tonnes of fruit and vegetables going to waste .
However , concerns remain that they wo n't be able to fulfil the demand on farms .
• Five ways the pandemic is hitting global food industry One of the UK 's biggest fresh food producers , G 's Fresh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chartered two out of the six flights carrying Eastern European farm workers from Romania .
Derek Wilkinson , managing director of G 's Fresh 's Sandfield Farms division , told the BBC that the 150 workers arriving at Stansted from eastern Romania on Thursday will be taken by bus to farms in East Anglia to pick lettuce .
The firm has been working closely with Public Health England on safe transport arrangements and the group will be fully screened on arrival in the UK .
Anyone found to have a temperature will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needed 3,000 seasonal workers , with the greatest need in May at the start of the spring onion harvest , followed by the pea and bean crop in June .
He added that the company had had a good response to a recruitment campaign aimed at local workers .
So far , 500 British people have registered their interest .
The Air Charter Service , a private firm , has already arranged flights for seasonal workers in other countries .
It flew 1,000 farm workers to Germany from Bulgaria and Romania in recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iasi , eastern Romania , after having their temperatures taken and filling out a health questionnaire .
The BBC understands that they will be taken from the airport by minibuses to farms in the South East and the Midlands .
The National Farmers ' Union ( NFU ) said up to 70,000 fruit and vegetable pickers were needed .
It is calling for a modern-day `` land army '' of UK workers .
NFU vice president Tom Bradshaw told the BBC : `` Growers that rely on seasonal workers to grow , pick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and flowers are extremely concerned about the impact coronavirus restrictions may have on their ability to recruit this critical workforce this season . ''
`` In the meantime , I would encourage anyone who is interested in helping pick for Britain this summer to contact one of the approved agricultural recruiters . ''
A national campaign is appealing to students and those who have lost their jobs in bars , cafes and shops to help with the harvest .
Several schemes have been set up to recruit new workers .
They include one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helps young people arrange experiences abroad , and another by the industry bodies British Summer Fruit and British Apples and Pears .
Data released to the BBC last week by job search engines suggested that those recruitment efforts might be paying off .
Totaljobs said it had seen 50,000 searches for farming jobs in one week alone .
It added that searches for terms such as `` fruit picker '' or `` farm worker '' had surged by 338 % and 107 % respectively .
Indeed.co.uk said that there had been a huge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in particular .
Between 18 March and 1 April , there was an increase of more than 6,000 % in searches for these roles on its website .
Meanwhile , Monster said the number of UK users searching for `` farm '' or `` farm worker '' jobs had nearly tripled .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to look after your mental health The charity Concordia said the response had been `` phenomenal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was still expected .
Stephanie Maurel , its chief executive , told the BBC 's Today programme that 36,000 people had registered interest and more than 6,000 had conducted a video interview .
But in the last 10 days , while almost 900 people had been offered jobs , just 112 have agreed contracts to accept employment .
`` We 've got brilliant people who are ready to work , but the reality of a job when it comes to it has n't really matched their circumstances , so we 're just working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Maurel said .
The Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( Defra ) said it was `` working hard with industry to ensure farmers and growers have the support they need '' for harvesting produce .
`` We are encouraging as many people as possible to take part in seasonal working opportunities across the country to help bring the harvest in , and recruitment efforts by industry are well under way , '' a Defra spokesperson said .
The government is not involved in chartering flights of European workers to @ @ @

The workers will board in Iasi, eastern Romania, after having their temperatures taken and filling out a health questionnaire. The BBC understands that they will be taken from the airport by minibuses to farms in the South East and the Midlands.


bbcuk--2020-04-15--Local pharmacies face cash crisis

Local pharmacies face cash crisis

`` The last month has been the hardest of my 35 years in pharmacy , '' said Dai Williams .
He runs two pharmacies in Rhondda in South Wales and while demand has increased massively since the lockdown , that 's not been good for business .
That 's because the wholesale price of medicine has shot up , cutting margins and putting financial pressures on .
Meanwhile , longer hours and twice as many deliveries have meant higher staff costs .
Thousands of independent community pharmacies across the country are facing a cash crunch .
The net result could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country with no local chemists .
Working life for pharmacists has change considerably since the lockdown , said Dai Williams .
`` Many of my colleagues have had to shut for a couple of hours during the day just to cope with the extra demands , '' he reported .
The biggest issue has been a sharp rise in demand for prescriptions .
Making up the medicine is already time-consuming , but currently takes longer because staff are wearing protective equipment .
Social-distancing has also had an effect .
`` I have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surgeries to pick up repeat prescriptions , return to the pharmacy to dispense them , and then deliver them to vulnerable members of the community , '' said Mr Williams .
The number of deliveries has doubled since the lockdown from 40 to 80 a day .
`` We have to cope with the extra work and stress , it 's simply what we have to do , '' he said .
`` But it 's been tough , '' he admitted .
Pharmacies are n't cashing in from the extra business as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That 's because the NHS drugs tariff , which pharmacies receive for selling generic prescription drugs , is often lower than the prices suppliers demand .
That raises the prospect of heavy losses , especially for the majority of community pharmacies that make around 95 % of their income from the NHS .
`` Suppliers have increased prices since the lockdown , '' said Mark Burdon , who operates five independent pharmacies in Tyne and Wear .
`` The price of paracetamol wholesale climbed from around 50p to £2 , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hydroxychloroquine - the malaria drug mentioned by Donald Trump as a possible Covid-19 cure - was even more dramatic .
`` It used to cost us £2 .
Now it costs up to £32.49 , '' Mr Burdon said .
The surge in demand and higher prices has left Mr Burdon 's practices facing a drugs bill more than 50 % higher in March than the previous month , which creates its own problems .
`` We are effectively paid a couple of months in arrears by the NHS , and we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money back , '' he explained .
`` Pharmacies are geared up for that but not these sudden extra charges , which could cause huge cashflow problems for some . ''
Mr Burdon is one of the regional representatives of the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee .
He reckons the government should earmark emergency cash to help pharmacies stay afloat .
`` The case has been proven for investment in the community pharmacy service as the front door to the NHS , supporting self-care and keeping people away from their GP or the hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers at pharmacies have reported a rise in aggressive behaviour from frustrated customers , with some reportedly even being forced to hire security guards .
Problems became so severe in one area that they launch a local campaign urging patients to respect pharmacy staff .
`` We were getting calls that staff were getting abuse from a small number of patients , such as banging on windows and shouting , with one member of staff even reporting being spat at , '' said Kath Gulson , chief officer of Community Pharmacy Lancashire .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ prescriptions at a time when we faced reduced staff because some were forced to self-isolate.
` ' With pharmacies shutting at times to catch up with prescriptions , plus restrictions placed on the amount of over-the-counter drugs that could be bought , some customers got very angry , she said .
They launched the `` Care for your pharmacy so your pharmacy can care for you '' campaign .
`` We 're just asking customers to understand the different way we have to operate now and support us so we can support the @ @ @ @ @ @

"We were getting calls that staff were getting abuse from a small number of patients, such as banging on windows and shouting, with one member of staff even reporting being spat at," said Kath Gulson, chief officer of Community Pharmacy Lancashire.


bbcuk--2020-04-16--Coronavirus: Captain Tom Moore finishes 100th lap in NHS fundraiser

A 99-year-old army veteran , who has raised millions of pounds for the NHS , has finished his 100th lap @ @ @ @ @ the final in his fundraising challenge .
Captain Tom Moore had vowed to walk 100 @ @ @ @ @ he turns 100 at the end of the month .
He had originally wanted to @ @ @ @ @ Together .
As of 08:00 BST , the total raised had risen to more than @ @ @ @ @ stories during the coronavirus outbreak : bbc.in/YourCoronavirusStories

A 99-year-old army veteran, who has raised millions of pounds for the NHS, has finished his 100th lap live on BBC Breakfast - the final in his fundraising challenge.
Captain Tom Moore had vowed to walk 100 laps of his garden before he turns 100 at the end of the month. He had originally wanted to raise £1,000 for NHS Charities Together.
As of 08:00 BST, the total raised had risen to more than £12m.
Watch more personal stories during the coronavirus outbreak: bbc.in/YourCoronavirusStories


bbcuk--2020-04-15--Coronavirus: Walsall mum on life in lockdown with eight kids

Finding ways to entertain children , especially during the coronavirus pandemic , can be difficult .
For one mum in @ @ @ @ @ proving a bit more challenging .
Care worker Caroline Wilkinson lives in Walsall with her @ @ @ @ @ children aged between eight months and 18 .
See more personal stories during the coronavirus @ @ @

Finding ways to entertain children, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, can be difficult.
For one mum in the West Midlands it is proving a bit more challenging.
Care worker Caroline Wilkinson lives in Walsall with her partner Kevin Worton and eight children aged between eight months and 18.
A film by Catherine Mackie
See more personal stories during the coronavirus outbreak: bbc.in/YourCoronavirusStories


bbcuk--2020-04-16--Newspaper headlines: Virus 'nears peak' and praise for fundraising 'hero'

Several of Thursday 's newspapers carry hope the UK is reaching the peak of the coronavirus epidemic .
Quoting Prof Chris Whitty on the number of cases `` flattening out '' , the Times says the news means the UK will soon be able to finalise plans for lifting lockdown measures .
The Daily Mail , meanwhile , has a stark account of the impact coronavirus is having on care homes .
It describes how six of the 18 residents at Philia Lodge care home in Peterborough have died in just 10 days .
Some 85 % of carers there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-isolate after coming into contact with infected residents .
The Daily Mirror believes Health Secretary Matt Hancock has woken up to the crisis in care homes far too late .
It asks why the testing of residents and their support staff was not done earlier - and writes it is impossible to see how the government can meet its promises to achieve this .
The Daily Telegraph highlights concerns that hospital patients who have tested positive for Covid-19 will continue to be discharged into care homes .
Charities and local authority leaders say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many homes do not have the resources to keep vulnerable and elderly residents safe .
The Daily Mail welcomes the government 's decision to recognise care home staff for their work .
But the Mirror is scathing about the idea of awarding staff a badge - dismissing it as `` unbelievable '' .
The Sun suggests an alternative way to recognise the work of NHS staff .
It calls for the entire service to be awarded the George Cross for bravery .
Their courage in risking their health on every shift must not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the paper says .
`` Day after day these men and women make Britain proud . ''
Several papers carry praise for Tom Moore , the Army veteran who has raised well over £10m for the NHS by walking laps of his garden .
The Daily Express says the country is `` in awe '' of the fundraising `` hero '' , while the Daily Star says a knighthood would be an apt way to thank the 99-year-old for his efforts .
The Times expresses concern that the government scheme to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rescue for enough of them , and the money is not getting through fast enough .
It calls for the process to be beefed up - and urges the chancellor to follow Switzerland and Germany by guaranteeing 100 % of the loans rather than 80 % per cent as at present .
Get news from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning The Financial Times reports America 's allies rounded on Donald Trump after he abruptly stopped funding the World Health Organization .
The Guardian criticises his decision , saying it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 .
Writing for the online edition of the New Statesman , Emily Tamkin acknowledges the WHO has made mistakes , and its relationship to China is worthy of investigation - but says the body is not the reason that the situation in the US deteriorated .
Several of the papers have details of a rare interview by the Princess Royal in which she warns the younger generation of royals against reinventing the wheel when it comes to their duties .
The Daily Mail says Princess Anne used the interview with Vanity Fair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to change the traditional approach to charity work , although did not single out anyone in particular .
During the interview , ahead of her 70th birthday , she also says she finds it difficult to understand why people get sucked into screens and devices .
Life 's too short , frankly , she concludes .

It describes how six of the 18 residents at Philia Lodge care home in Peterborough have died in just 10 days. Some 85% of carers there have either been sick or had to self-isolate after coming into contact with infected residents.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Ayia Napa Briton sentenced over false rape claim

A British teenager has been given a four-month suspended sentence after being found guilty of lying about gang-rape in Cyprus .
The 19-year-old hugged her family and left court weeping after she was sentenced for public mischief .
Her sentence was suspended for three years , and she has been ordered to pay €148 ( £125 ) in legal fees .
The teenager now plans to return to the UK .
Women 's rights groups protested outside court ahead of the sentencing .
BBC correspondent Anna Holligan said the puffy-eyed teenager embraced her mother as chants of `` we believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' filtered into the courtroom from the protest outside .
Supporters from Cyprus and a group of 50 women who travelled from Israel gathered outside the Famagusta District Court on Tuesday holding placards .
The teenager 's mother shouted `` she 's coming home '' to the group following sentencing , and told reporters she felt `` relieved '' .
Addressing the crowd outside court , the teenager 's mother said : `` I just want to thank each and every one of you for turning up today , having belief , having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
In court , Judge Michalis Papathanasiou told her he was giving her a `` second chance '' .
The 19-year-old was convicted following a trial after recanting a claim that she was raped in a hotel room in July .
The woman has said Cypriot police made her falsely confess to lying about the incident at a hotel - something police have denied .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson was `` pleased '' that she can now return to the UK , his spokesman said .
A statement from Downing Street said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries to ensure that such a case could not happen again .
It added that the UK government had highlighted its `` concerns about the judicial process in this case and the woman 's right to a fair trial '' to the Cypriot authorities .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told reporters at RAF Northolt that he would be following up `` some of the issues '' in relation to the case .
The woman 's lawyer , Lewis Power QC , said she would be returning to the UK on Tuesday .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case was `` not finished by any means '' and that he would be appealing the conviction .
He said : `` We will be seeking an expedited appeal to the Supreme Court of Cyprus and we will also be considering going to the European Court of Human Rights .
`` We do not feel we have had justice in terms of how the trial progressed , the manner in which it was conducted , the initial police investigation and the fact that we feel she did not receive a fair trial .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was `` troubled '' about the case .
`` All the evidence shows that she had lied and prevented the police from doing other serious jobs , '' he said .
`` Twelve people were arrested and seven of them were there for at least 10 days .
That was also a serious offence .
`` Her psychological state , her youth , that she has been away from her family , her friends and academic studies this year .
`` This has led me to decide to give her a second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years . ''
Israeli lawyer Nir Islovich , who represented four of the 12 men in the case , welcomed the decision .
`` What was important to us was that she would be convicted of the charges brought against her , '' he said .
`` That happened with full adoption of the facts as presented by my clients . ''
When Cyprus gained its independence from the UK in 1960 it inherited the English Common Law system , so there are great similarities between its system and our own before then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there has been major reform of the criminal justice process here , which does not apply in Cyprus .
In the 1970 's a series of miscarriages of justice cases , including the Guildford Four and Birmingham Six , highlighted shortcomings in the treatment of those detained by the police .
Since 1984 new legislation in the UK introduced codes of practice governing the rights of suspects in detention .
In enshrined , for instance , tape recorded interviews , the right to a solicitor , and the supervision and oversight of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigation .
The new legislation does not apply in Cyprus , where interviews are still hand-written .
In that sense the Cypriot criminal justice system provides less protection to suspects than the UK system does .
However , it is a fair trial system and criticisms that can be levelled at it , could be equally levelled at other countries who are signed up to the European Convention on Human Rights .
Once the appeal system in Cyprus has been exhausted , there could be an appeal to the European Court of Human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the system in Cyprus has breached the right to a fair trial .
Protesters outside court insisted that the woman should never have been convicted .
Orit Sulitzeanu , head of the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel , told BBC News the conviction was `` unbelievable '' and that she and others had travelled to Cyprus from Israel to lend their support to the teenager .
`` She is not to blame at all , '' Ms Sulitzeanu said .
`` This sentence reflects backward thinking and not understanding the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must learn what happens to the victim of sexual abuse . ''
She added : `` This is a young lady , she will go to university , she will go to have a job and she has a criminal offence .
It will influence her life .
This four-months suspended sentence is bad from the beginning . ''
Susana Pavlou , director at the Mediterranean Institute of Gender Studies in Cyprus , said the case had sparked a `` culture of protest '' in the country .
`` This year it has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system is - broadly in terms of police and social services response to violence against women , and the lack of specialist services .
`` It 's heartening to see how this has ignited women 's rights campaigners and a women 's rights movement focusing on this issue .
`` This is not going to go away , we will not be silenced . ''
The teenager had contacted police hours after claiming to have been raped on 17 July at the Pambos Napa Rocks Hotel .
Twelve men were arrested in connection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and returned home , after the woman retracted her claims .
She was later charged and spent about a month in prison before being granted bail in August .
The women then appeared in court facing charges of public mischief by falsely accusing the group of raping her , to which she pleaded not guilty .
The trial began at the start of October - with the verdict delayed until December .

"We do not feel we have had justice in terms of how the trial progressed, the manner in which it was conducted, the initial police investigation and the fact that we feel she did not receive a fair trial."


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Reynhard Sinaga: More potential victims of rapist contact police

Further potential victims of `` the most prolific rapist in British legal history '' have come forward following his sentencing , police have said .
Reynhard Sinaga lured 48 men from outside Manchester clubs to his flat , where he drugged and assaulted them .
On Monday , he was jailed for life with a 30-year minimum for 159 sex offences , including 136 rapes .
Police said a dedicated incident room for reporting sexual abuse has seen `` a very positive response '' .
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said : `` For operational reasons we are unable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made to the incident room or information made online via the Major Incident Public Portal at this time .
`` However , we can confirm that some of these reports relate to potential further victims of Sinaga . ''
Sinaga would wait for men leaving nightclubs and bars before leading them to his flat in Montana House , Princess Street , often with the offer of somewhere to have a drink or call a taxi .
He drugged his victims before assaulting them while they were unconscious , and filmed the attacks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ them had no memory of what had happened .
Survivors Manchester , a charity that helps male survivors of sexual abuse , said the case `` generates the ability to talk '' about abuse .
Chief executive Duncan Craig said : `` There are people ringing up who are not directly affected by this particular case , but are people who have been sexually assaulted , maybe even in childhood that are now feeling like the time is right to step forward and talk .
`` It 's something that we do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only when I listened to their individual stories in court that I began to understand the trauma experienced by Sinaga 's victims .
The anguish of a student who 'd dropped out of university as a result .
Another who 'd left his job .
A third whose relationship had broken down .
One who could n't bring himself to talk about what happened to his family .
And distressingly , another whose pain is so great , it drove him to contemplate suicide .
The publicity surrounding the case yesterday has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media jointly agreed not to report it until after the Christmas break so that counselling services were fully in place for victims before it was made public .
Helplines set up for people affected have received multiple calls including some from potential victims .
Sinaga 's convictions relate to crimes he committed from January 2015 to June 2017 , but police believe he began offending years earlier .
Police say they have evidence the 36-year-old targeted at least 190 victims , but they have been unable to identify a further 70 victims and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they may have been abused by Sinaga to come forward .
The Crown Prosecution Service said Sinaga was `` the most prolific rapist in British legal history '' as he was jailed at Manchester Crown Court on Monday .
Greater Manchester Police said anyone who believed they might have been attacked by Sinaga could report information online or call its police line on 0800 092 0410 from inside the UK or 0207 158 0124 from abroad .
The force said anyone in need of support from specialist agencies could call 0800 056 0154 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0011 from abroad .
If you have been affected by the issues raised in this article , help and support can be found at BBC Action Line .
Have you had your drink spiked ?
Do you think enough is being done to warn men of the risks of having their drink spiked ?
You can get in touch by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
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Chief executive Duncan Craig said: "There are people ringing up who are not directly affected by this particular case, but are people who have been sexually assaulted, maybe even in childhood that are now feeling like the time is right to step forward and talk.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Henry Long admits PC Andrew Harper manslaughter

A teenager has admitted killing a police officer who was dragged along the road by a van after being called @ @ @ @ @ .
PC Andrew Harper , 28 , died in August in Berkshire , four weeks @ @ @ @ @ Henry Long , 18 , from Mortimer , Reading , pleaded guilty to manslaughter at @ @ @ @ @ murder .
The Thames Valley Police officer from Wallingford , Oxfordshire , died from multiple @ @ @ @ @ , who can not be identified , entered not guilty pleas to PC Harper 's @ @ @ @ @ .
Another 17-year-old boy denied the same charges at an earlier hearing .
A fourth @ @ @ @ @ 21 , from Basingstoke , has admitted conspiracy to steal a quad bike .
Long @ @ @ @ @ have been driving the van , also admitted conspiracy to steal a quad bike .
@ @ @ @ @ to face a six-week trial at the Old Bailey from 9 March .

She wrote: "You were loved by so many but by no one more than me. You loved so many but it was me you gave your heart.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Durham neo-Nazi teenager detained for terror attack plan

The youngest person to be convicted of planning a terror attack in the UK has been detained for more than six years .
The now 17-year-old wrote about an `` inevitable race war '' in his diary and listed locations from his home city of Durham in a `` guerrilla warfare '' manual .
A jury had found the boy , who can not be named for legal reasons , guilty of preparation of terrorist acts between October 2017 and March 2018 .
He was sentenced to six years and eight months at Manchester Crown Court .
Judge David Stockdale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are offences of the utmost seriousness . ''
He also ordered the detention be followed by an extension period on licence of five years .
The six-week trial heard he was an adherent of `` occult neo-Nazism '' , and described himself as a `` natural sadist '' .
His attack preparations included researching explosives and trying to obtain the dangerous chemical ammonium nitrate .
He also wrote of planning to carry out an arson spree targeting synagogues in the Durham area using Molotov cocktails .
Addressing the defendant , the judge described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of high intellect '' , adding this made it a matter of `` infinite regret '' that he had persisted on `` such a twisted and - many would say sick - ideological path '' .
He said the evidence in the trial `` tells its own macabre story '' , and while his young age was a powerful mitigating factor , it was also a `` most disturbing '' aspect of the case .
`` You suffer from an autistic spectrum disorder '' , he told him , saying it was common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the teenager had written him a letter expressing `` remorse '' .
As well as being found guilty of preparation of terrorist acts , he was also convicted of disseminating a terrorist publication , possessing an article for a purpose connected with terrorism and three counts of possessing a document or record containing information likely to be useful to a terrorist .
His trial heard he had visited websites on firearms and was in communication with a gun auctioneer .
After his arrest in March 2019 , police found him in possession @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ricin - and that he had distributed firearms manuals online by uploading them to a neo-Nazi website .
Earlier in the sentencing hearing , prosecutor Michelle Nelson QC described it as `` a gamut of offending across the terrorism legislation '' .
Mitigating , Nigel Evans QC said the teenager 's lack of contrition may be `` interpreted as part of his autism , his ADHD '' , and his parents , who previously `` did n't believe anything was wrong '' , were `` now fully engaged '' .
Speaking after sentencing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Durham Police said : `` It is never an easy decision to investigate , to arrest and prosecute children of this age .
`` We only do this when we think it is the last resort for us to go down that line .
`` Prevention is always better than prosecution - we would have always preferred to engage earlier and divert him away from these beliefs and this activity . ''

As well as being found guilty of preparation of terrorist acts, he was also convicted of disseminating a terrorist publication, possessing an article for a purpose connected with terrorism and three counts of possessing a document or record containing information likely to be useful to a terrorist.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Record number of A&E long waits in Scotland

The number of patients waiting more than 12 hours to be treated at accident and emergency in Scottish hospitals has hit record levels .
Latest figures show 987 people waited in excess of 12 hours to be admitted , transferred or discharged in November last year .
It is a near five-fold increase on the same period in 2018 .
But the Scottish government says core A & E departments in Scotland continue to be the best-performing in the UK .
It wants 95 % of cases to be completed within four hours of arrival at A & E .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that target was in July 2017 .
• A & E target figures are worst since start of 2018 The new statistics show 141,868 people attended Scottish A & Es in November 2018 .
Of them , 14.5 % waited more than four hours to be admitted , transferred or discharged .
While 987 ( 0.7 % ) waited more than 12 hours , 3,320 ( 2.5 % ) spent more than eight hours in an A & E department .
The proportion of people treated within the four hour target ( 85.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since 2007 .
Dr David Chung , vice president of Royal College of Emergency Medicine Scotland , said : `` Today 's data shows that despite November being a relatively quiet month in terms of attendances , the number of patients experiencing long waits has increased considerably .
`` Long waits mean patients on trolleys and care delivered on corridors .
We must do better by our patients .
`` Poor performance can not be solely linked to increasing attendances , there 's clearly an urgent need to build capacity in the system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and building a primary and social care system that meets the demand of Scotland 's growing and ageing society . ''
NHS Scotland data shows that in October last year a total of 657 patients had to wait more than 12 hours to be seen and then admitted , transferred or discharged .
The following month the tally hit 987 .
By comparison during the same months in 2018 the totals were 159 and 210 respectively .
The data shows the winter months are when the number of people waiting more than 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given year .
Miles Briggs , Scottish Conservative health spokesman , said : `` It is utterly unacceptable that almost 1,000 people waited in A & E for over 12 hours last month , most likely in fear and pain .
`` Hospital staff are clearly unable to cope and the result on morale is devastating . ''
The worst-performing Scottish health board was NHS Lothian , where 81.4 % of patients were seen within the four-hour target period , followed by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde ( 81.8 % ) and NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A Scottish government spokeswoman said : `` Scotland 's core A & E departments continue to be the best-performing in the UK and have been for more than four and a half years despite experiencing continued high attendance levels .
`` In 2019 , we have seen more patients within four hours than in any other year since 2012 .
We continue to work closely with those health boards facing the greatest challenges to help drive improvements .
`` To support the impact that winter pressures can have on performance , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the total additional investment to £13.4m to ensure quality of care , patient safety and access to services are maintained over the winter period . ''

"Poor performance cannot be solely linked to increasing attendances, there's clearly an urgent need to build capacity in the system through restoring the number of staffed beds and building a primary and social care system that meets the demand of Scotland's growing and ageing society."


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Travelex being held to ransom by hackers

Hackers are holding foreign exchange company Travelex to ransom after a cyber-attack forced the firm to turn off all computer systems and resort to using pen and paper across its thousands of sites .
On New Year 's Eve , hackers launched their attack on the Travelex network .
As a result , the company took down its websites across 30 countries to contain `` the virus and protect data '' .
The hackers are demanding a ransom to give the firm access to its systems .
They have demanded payment in exchange for either restoration of IT systems or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is understood that a deadline for payment has been set by the cyber-criminals .
The Metropolitan Police is leading the investigation into the attack .
In a statement , the force said : `` On Thursday , 2 January , the Met 's Cyber Crime Team were contacted with regards to a reported ransomware attack involving a foreign currency exchange .
Enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing . ''
Travelex says it is working with police and has deployed teams of IT specialists and external cyber-security experts who have been working continuously .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Travelex office in the UK and the company insists that no customer data has been leaked .
But it would not say what data could potentially be at risk .
The Travelex websites across Europe , Asia and the US have been offline since 31 December with a message to visitors that it is down due to `` planned maintenance '' .
Customers have not been sent any email communication about the cyber-attack , but queries are being replied to on social media by the company .
`` The public response from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said security researcher Kevin Beaumont .
`` The Travelex UK website still only says 'planned maintenance ' , a week after the problems began - many customers will be completely unaware hackers gained access to their network , and allegedly their personal data , '' he said .
`` Travelex have a responsibility to clearly communicate with customers and business partners the gravity of the situation . ''
Travelex 's decision to take down its site has meant the large network of other firms that use its services can not sell currency online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keeping its partners up to date on the response to the cyber-attack .
Virgin Money 's site showed an error message , which said : `` Our online , foreign currency purchasing service is temporarily unavailable due to planned maintenance .
The system will be back online shortly . ''
Sainsbury 's Bank also said its online travel money services were unavailable , although it said customers could still buy travel money in its stores .
In a statement to the BBC , the bank said : `` We 're in close contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our online service as soon as possible . ''
A spokesperson for First Direct , which is owned by HSBC , said : `` Unfortunately , our online travel money service is currently unavailable due to a service issue with third party service provider , Travelex . ''
In a statement on Thursday , Travelex boss Tony D'Souza said : `` We regret having to suspend some of our services in order to contain the virus and protect data . ''
The company has resorted to carrying out transactions manually , providing foreign-exchange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We apologise to all our customers for any inconvenience caused as a result , '' Mr D'Souza said in the statement .
The company has since told the BBC that its systems are currently down and it is unable to sell or reload its pre-paid travel cards .
But , it said : `` Existing cards continue to function as normal and customers in the UK can continue to spend and withdraw money from ATMs . ''
`` For customers who have ordered money online , please contact Travelex customer services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discuss their individual situation and requirements . ''
Have you been affected by the cyber-attack on Travelex ?
Share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
You can also contact us in the following ways : • Text an SMS or MMS to 61124 or +44 7624 800 100 • Please read our terms & conditions and privacy policy

Sainsbury's Bank also said its online travel money services were unavailable, although it said customers could still buy travel money in its stores. In a statement to the BBC, the bank said: "We're in close contact with Travelex so that we can resume our online service as soon as possible."


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Trainee surgeon William Reid dies in French Alps skiing accident

A trainee surgeon has died in a skiing accident while on a family holiday in the French Alps .
William Reid , 25 , from Edinburgh , was returning from lunch in the resort of Avoriaz when he plunged over a 30ft cliff .
The Edinburgh Evening News reported his girlfriend and step-brother witnessed the tragedy on Friday .
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said it was providing the family with consular assistance .
A statement released by his father Dr Hamish Reid , mother Sarah , step-mother Anne , brother Cameron and step-brother , Murray , said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ achievements but more than that they were proud of who William was as a person .
`` He was an extremely kind and caring son , brother , step-brother , grandson , nephew , cousin and good friend to so many people .
`` William will be missed by so many people , he was an exceptional young man . ''
Mr Reid was a graduate of Aberdeen University Medical School and had completed a placement at Harvard Medical School in Boston , USA .
The keen sportsman was doing foundation training in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ career as a surgeon .
He was due to find out soon if he had secured a place on the Scottish orthopaedic training programme .
An FCO spokesman said : `` We are providing assistance to the family of a British man who died in a skiing accident in France , and are in contact with the local authorities . ''

A statement released by his father Dr Hamish Reid, mother Sarah, step-mother Anne, brother Cameron and step-brother, Murray, said: "His family were immensely proud of his achievements but more than that they were proud of who William was as a person.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Stephen Clements: BBC Radio Ulster presenter dies age 47

The BBC Radio Ulster presenter Stephen Clements has died suddenly .
He was 47 .
The broadcaster had presented the mid-morning Stephen Clements Show on the station since September .
The married father of two began his radio presenting career on Citybeat , and then hosted Q Radio 's Breakfast Show for seven years .
Before working in radio , Mr Clements studied geography at university and lived in South Korea for a period teaching English .
BBC Northern Ireland Director Peter Johnston said : `` We are sorry to bring you the sad news of the passing of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are with Stephen 's family , friends and colleagues , at this difficult time . ''
Colleagues and friends have been quick to pay their respects to Mr Clements , who began his full-time career as a radio presenter in his late thirties and quickly became highly popular .
Mr Clements was patron of Autism NI , which was among those to post online tributes .
The Mary Peters Trust also paid tribute to Mr Clements .
Politicians have remembered Mr Clements as `` a true gentleman '' and `` incredible talent '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by members of the public , who have expressed shock at the news of Mr Clements ' death .
The Q Radio breakfast show became one of the most-listened to radio programmes in Northern Ireland during his time there .
In June 2019 , Mr Clements announced that he was leaving the station to join BBC Northern Ireland .
He subsequently co-presented the BBC NI TV series Open for Summer during the Open Golf Championship in Portrush in 2019 .
He also co-hosted BBC Northern Ireland 's Children in Need programme in November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took over Radio Ulster 's mid-morning programme from veteran presenter Sean Coyle in September 2019 , saying it had always been his `` dream '' to work for the BBC .
He is survived by his wife and two children .

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bbcuk--2020-01-07--Crawley Down killings: Women died from head injuries

Two women killed in a West Sussex village died of head injuries , a coroner has been told .
Sandy Seagrave , 76 , and Amy Appleton , 32 , were found dead outside a house in Crawley Down on 22 December .
A 37-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder was taken to hospital in a `` very unstable condition '' but is no longer critical , police said .
Post-mortem examinations found both women died of a `` head injury '' , a coroner 's court in Crawley heard .
Opening inquests into both deaths , senior coroner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ women had `` died an unnatural death '' .
Ms Appleton was a teacher at Copthorne Church of England Junior School , where her `` sense of fun and cheerful nature '' was said to have made a `` huge impact '' on pupils .
Head teacher Joanna Francis said she had been `` one of our most loved and respected teachers who was dedicated to giving the best education to all her pupils '' .
The family of Ms Seagrave , of Kiln Road , Crawley Down , said she was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a tribute , she was described as `` an eccentric character who was stubbornly independent , feisty , brave and not afraid of anything '' .
The condition of the 37-year-old suspect `` continues to improve '' , Sussex Police said .
He has been transferred from an intensive treatment unit and is on a ward .

Head teacher Joanna Francis said she had been "one of our most loved and respected teachers who was dedicated to giving the best education to all her pupils".


bbcuk--2020-01-07--My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding twins discovered 'after note found'

Twin brothers Billy and Joe Smith , from the Channel 4 reality TV show My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding , were found dead in a Kent country lane after a relative found a suicide note , an inquest heard .
The pair , who were both tree surgeons , were found next to each other in Dibden Lane near Sevenoaks on 28 December .
They had celebrated their 32nd birthdays about two weeks earlier .
No family members were present for the short , preliminary hearing , as an inquest opened in Maidstone .
Senior coroner Roger Hatch said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that a call to police was made by a family member having discovered a suicide note . ''
Joe was a father-of-two and married to Charmaine Smith , while Billy was single , the hearing was told .
A full inquest is still to be held but no date has yet been set .
A Facebook memorial page , which now has more than 4,800 followers , said the brothers `` came into this world together and went into the next together '' .
In a video tribute , Paddy Doherty , one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show in 2014 and winner of Celebrity Big Brother , said the deaths were a `` terrible tragedy '' .

A Facebook memorial page, which now has more than 4,800 followers, said the brothers "came into this world together and went into the next together".


bbcuk--2020-01-07--River Trent drowning dog rescue was 'horrific'

A woman who rescued a drowning dog whose lead was tied to a rock said the ordeal was `` horrific '' and `` emotional '' .
Jane Harper had been walking her dogs with a friend when they spotted the Belgian shepherd in the River Trent .
The animal , whose name was recorded on her microchip in 2010 as Bella , was taken to a vet where she is recovering .
A 31-year-old woman and a 32-year-old man arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty offences have been released under investigation .
• Latest news and stories from the East @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bellamy found Bella near Long Lane in Farndon , Nottinghamshire , at about 08:20 GMT on Monday .
`` It looked like a dead dog , and then it blinked so I got [ Joanne ] to hold my dogs and went in , '' said Mrs Harper .
`` Adrenaline just kicked in and I had to get her out .
`` We thought she might have just got caught in the river but it was only when I tried to take her out I could n't move her .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see the rock at first .
It was horrific . ''
Mrs Harper said the dog had managed to rest its head on a rock to breathe and she managed to pull her as close to the edge as she could .
`` She 's a big , heavy dog .
Then another dog walker came , pulled her out and on to the grass , and wrapped her in his jumper .
Another lady came running out with towels .
It was a real community effort .
`` She was absolutely frozen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It was very emotional . ''
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"It looked like a dead dog, and then it blinked so I got [Joanne] to hold my dogs and went in," said Mrs Harper. "Adrenaline just kicked in and I had to get her out.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--London Bridge attack: Convicted murderer Steven Gallant 'did not hesitate' to tackle knifeman

A convicted murderer has said he `` did not hesitate '' to join the fight against the London Bridge knifeman in November .
Steven Gallant , 42 , told how he started to tackle Usman Khan armed only with a chair during the attack which began at a nearby prisoner rehabilitation event .
Gallant , who was out on licence to attend the event , is serving a minimum of 17 years for killing ex-firefighter Barrie Jackson in Hull , 15 years ago .
Khan , who killed Saskia Jones and Jack Merritt , was later shot dead by police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attack which began at Fishmongers ' Hall on November 29 .
Gallant is the last of three people who were filmed restraining Khan on the bridge to be identified .
In his first interview since what he called `` that tragic day '' , Gallant said he went to investigate after he heard noises from a lower floor of the building .
`` I could tell something was wrong and had to help , '' he told PA news agency .
`` I saw injured people .
Khan was stood in the foyer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
`` He was a clear danger to all , so I did n't hesitate . ''
Last month , civil servant Darryn Frost described how a man - now identified as Gallant - used a wooden chair to keep the knifeman at bay , before throwing it at Khan when he revealed his suicide belt , which was later shown to be fake .
Mr Frost said he then handed Gallant a narwhal tusk , which he had found on a nearby wall display , as Khan `` started running towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ above his head '' .
Gallant has offered `` special thanks '' to Mr Frost .
`` Had he not passed me the narwhal tusk at that crucial moment , not only could I have been killed , the situation could have been even worse , '' he said .
He also described reformed ex-prisoner John Crilly , who used a fire extinguisher to help subdue Khan , and a chef - known only as Lukasz - who was stabbed five times when he stepped in to help , as `` extremely brave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his accomplice James Gilligan , in 2005 for carrying out a fatal attack on 33-year-old former firefighter Mr Jackson .
During their trial , Hull Crown Court heard the attack was carried out because Gallant wrongly believed Mr Jackson had attacked his girlfriend .
`` Nobody has the right to take another 's life and I offer my sincere apologies to my victim 's family for the hurt caused , '' Gallant said .
`` I can never bring that life back , and it is right that I was handed a severe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'd accepted my punishment , I decided to seek help .
`` When you go to prison , you lose control of your life .
Your own future relies on the decisions of others .
`` Bettering yourself becomes one of the few things you can do while reducing the existing burden on society . ''
• I was prepared to die , says London Bridge 'hero' Since going to prison , Gallant , who will be eligible for parole in 2022 subject to approval , has `` vowed never to turn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since learned to read and write , is studying for a business studies degree and was taking part in the Learning Together rehabilitation project , which was hosting the event at which Khan struck .
He said the deaths of course co-ordinators Mr Merritt , who he met in 2016 , and Miss Jones were an `` unbearable blow '' and the `` sense of loss is immense '' .
Gallant described Mr Merritt as a `` role model and friend '' .
He said : `` Jack did n't care who you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your future ; he saw who you could become and did not define you by your past .
I will miss him badly . ''
Miss Jones , he said , was `` highly respected and loved '' by those involved with the course .
He added that he was `` certain '' the pair would wish for the Learning Together programme to continue .

He said: "Jack didn't care who you were: he cared about you and your future; he saw who you could become and did not define you by your past. I will miss him badly."


bbcuk--2020-01-07--How can we stop our village flooding again?

Two months ago , as flood water descended on the village of Fishlake , near Doncaster , Peter Trimingham battled through the night to help neighbours to safety .
The experience has left him thinking hard about what can be done to prevent this happening again , reports the BBC 's Sue Mitchell .
When Peter Trimingham volunteered to become a flood warden in the village where he 's lived since childhood , he had n't imagined it would lead to the toughest challenge of his life .
He and his four fellow flood wardens , all over 60 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 8 November , but quickly ran out .
The village was cut off by water , so it took hours for fresh supplies to get through .
The scale of the disaster took everyone by surprise , because the village had n't flooded since 1947 .
The memory of past floods had faded as new generations had moved in .
Only grainy photographs remained .
`` There 's a gorgeous photograph in the village of past flooding .
The flood water used to shoot down the main street , and the locals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barrels of beer positioned carefully from the step to the pub and raised up by about five feet and they 've got barrels in the road and planks that run from the door of the pub across to the higher ground at the other side of the road .
They 'd be walking across it to get their beer .
And that 's in 1923 , '' says Peter .
According to Prof Ian Rotherham , an ecologist and environmental historian from Sheffield Hallam University , Fishlake was caught in a pincer movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ea Beck .
Both burst their banks into an area of drained fenland that was already sodden from rain over a period of weeks .
`` I 've been studying the history of the area and was talking to community groups down the river Don and various people were saying , 'Well my grandad used to have a boat and we did n't know why , ' '' he says .
`` All the way from Sheffield right down to Doncaster , the communities had boats because they knew they got flooded five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you just had the boat .
Like the guys with the barrels of beer , you were prepared .
But then from the 1950s , we 've engineered the solutions and people then forget that they ever needed that , and [ now they say ] , 'Oh yeah , we thought my grandad was bonkers , but aha , that explains it ! ''
Peter Trimingham and the other flood wardens accept that a degree of complacency had crept in but believe that some of the problems in Fishlake have their roots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ago in Sheffield .
In 2007 , floods in the city led to two deaths and hundreds of evacuations .
After that , £83m was spent on six flood-defence schemes , which Ian Rotherham agrees contributed to Fishlake 's problems .
`` In Sheffield , the main factories and other areas affected in 2007 are now protected .
However , if you are keeping the water out there , then you are moving it faster downstream , and Fishlake bore the brunt of this .
You 're not holding the water in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ premises means you 're moving the water downstream faster .
It 's going to hit sooner , harder and deeper . ''
Peter and the other flood wardens were powerless when this water poured in , flooding more than half of the 250 homes in the village .
People were working in the dark with freezing cold water pouring through every crack and hole and rising quickly .
`` It 's pretty traumatic .
You 've not got vision ; you 've got darkness and floodwater - two very , very dangerous combinations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have no concept of time .
You ca n't see and my phone was destroyed in the flood water anyway .
You feel so small and insignificant and useless : something much more powerful than you ca n't be imagined unless you 've been in it . ''
• Listen to Peter Trimingham on My Name Is ... on BBC Sounds • Browse other episodes of My Name Is ... from BBC Radio 4 For many in Fishlake the loss ca n't be quantified : it includes everything from photos , treasured possessions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The community came together in the immediate aftermath of the disaster .
Farmers used their tractors to help get people to safety .
One , Greg Mawson , describes how he battled to save others , only to return to find his farmyard under up to eight feet of water and thousands of tonnes of straw lost .
The local church , St Cuthbert 's , provided space for people to sleep on the night of the floods and has acted as a storage hub for hundreds of donations of food , clothing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from mops to vats of disinfectant .
But people are getting back to normal at different speeds .
Some of those who were evacuated are still unable to return .
Many homes hum and drone with heaters , dehumidifiers and fans .
Those whose home insurance does n't cover flood insurance , or who have yet to receive insurance payouts , have received two recovery grants of about £700 in total from Doncaster Council and a local charity , South Yorkshire Community Foundation .
According to Peter Trimingham , the response from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been paid quickly and have been able to get on with rebuilding , while others have been left arguing about what is covered and what needs to be done .
`` It 's incredibly stressful because you go from coming downstairs to a flooded house - or worse , you 're in a flooded bungalow and left with just the clothes you 're stood in .
Some people have to wait because the insurance companies are slow - that means you do n't get the house cleared , you do n't get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` That 's the experience people are going through now .
So a natural disaster is followed by a human disaster and that is the point where people are really , really low . ''
It was Day 21 before Peter 's home was fully equipped with dehumidifiers , beginning a process that took weeks .
He , his wife Fiona , and their son , Paddy , have just started sleeping there again but the downstairs is a wreck - all the soft furnishings had to go in the skip - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll get the final go-ahead from insurers to begin rebuilding .
This feeling of helplessness is leading residents to demand more input in designing solutions .
They do n't want to see a situation in which Fishlake is safeguarded at the expense of other communities .
`` I think we 're reactive to flooding and given what 's happening we need to become more proactive , '' says Alison Slack , from Fishlake Cricket Club .
`` Putting in a flood defences only means you 're going to move a problem somewhere else @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going through what the village has gone through . ''
One scheme that has caught Peter Trimingham 's eye is being piloted in Hull and overseen by Dr Liz Sharp , from the University of Sheffield .
It involves rainwater harvesting using water butts in flood areas .
`` The project is just finishing now and so far we 've just looked at which people will be willing to take water butts for this purpose and a few simple calculations on what impact it would have , '' says Dr Sharp .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few of the people we talked to actually said , 'Well , if they were to text us and tell us when to empty our water out , we would empty it to create more capacity . '
And people were really willing to do that because they know that they 're vulnerable to flooding .
They know it 's a horrible experience and they want to help other people and prevent that problem . ''
The element of community engagement in this scheme strongly appeals to Peter Trimingham .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something and that you 're contributing to the public good as well as your own good .
We just need more ideas like that , that are so simple and that have so much impact for so little cost , '' he says .
`` People can feel they 're actually doing something as opposed to the way that we felt in Fishlake .
We were flooded and we felt lacking in power .
This empowers ordinary people to do something brilliant . ''
Another scheme he 's interested in has taken root @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defence measures it could actually slow down the speed at which run-off enters the Don and bears down on Fishlake .
It 's a project to transform semi-redundant roads into a network of flower meadows and wetlands , and also footpaths to increase access to the riverside district .
At Porter Brook , in the heart of the city , river plants are now blooming in a small section of the waterway , where a `` pocket park '' has been created .
`` In the event of the floods this space will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rotherham .
He pays tribute to `` enlightened '' city council planners and developers .
`` It 's created a gorgeous little spot .
You can come here in spring , you can hear birds singing , you will see kingfishers , we have got trout back in the river .
We 've got salmon spawning this year , in the upper reaches of the River Don .
That 's brilliant . ''
These projects give Peter Trimingham hope that something good can come out of what 's happened to his community .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ water management , rather than a series of reactions to individual crises .
`` It 's got to start in Westminster .
We make decisions about planning , we make decisions about water , and we 've got to stop treating it as the enemy that comes over the bank , '' he says .
`` It needs to be the friend and we need to look after it . ''
You may also be interested in : The northernmost Orkney island , North Ronaldsay , is home to just 50 people and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when islanders built a stone wall to confine the flock to the shoreline , it has survived on seaweed alone - and it now seems that this special diet could hold the key to greener , more climate-friendly livestock farming .
The seaweed-eating sheep that belch in a good way

"What we also found is that quite a few of the people we talked to actually said, 'Well, if they were to text us and tell us when to empty our water out, we would empty it to create more capacity.' And people were really willing to do that because they know that they're vulnerable to flooding. They know it's a horrible experience and they want to help other people and prevent that problem."


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Koko Camden: Memories of fire-hit theatre

A much-loved Camden music venue has been damaged by fire , prompting an outpouring of stories and memories .
Here are just some of them .
From Monty Python to Madonna , The Pretenders to Prince , Koko has seen it all .
It was one of the largest playhouses outside of London 's West End when it opened as the Camden Theatre on 26 December 1900 and has had several names since then , including the Hippodrome , Music Machine , Camden Palace and - since 2004 - Koko .
The building 's beauty , full of original features @ @ @ @ @ @ @ draws for both acts and audiences , according to Jonathan Simpson .
As a 16-year-old , his first gig was going to see Blur at the venue in 1990 .
`` I do n't think anyone who experienced walking through those doors and down the steps into the auditorium will ever forget it , '' says Mr Simpson , who is now Camden Council 's cabinet member for promoting culture and communities .
`` The original seats were gone but there was still so much there that screamed of a bygone era , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ glitter balls I have ever seen .
`` It was a very special venue and had a strong sense of history , that 's what attracted people . ''
BBC journalist Jennifer Scott says it has played a big part in her life .
It was the last place she and her friend Mark Strickland saw a gig together before his death , when they saw Alien Ant Farm in 2016 , and the first gig she went to with her boyfriend , when they saw Powerwolf two years later .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the balconies talking at each other , '' she recalls .
`` With both gigs , and god knows how many others I 've been to there , it was hard to keep your eyes on the stage because of how beautiful and old-school the building was .
`` It was like a labyrinth with loads of levels and secret staircases .
I seemed to find a new bit of it every time I went .
And it was really lush , all old velvet and deep reds .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as much a star as the bands on stage . ''
In 1983 , the theatre was the first UK venue to host a Madonna gig and the global superstar chose to return there in 2005 to launch her tenth album , Confessions on a Dance Floor .
Prince also chose to perform there in 2014 , having previously played there in 1988 and 2007 .
Mr Simpson was one of the many who queued for hours to get into the 2014 gig .
`` This was Prince - he could easily have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Koko , that tells you what a place it was , '' he says .
`` It 's a gem of a venue and we are very lucky to have it bookmarking one end of Camden High Street . ''
The BBC ran the theatre from 1945 until the 1970s with a number of its most famous shows recorded there , including the first album of Monty Python 's Flying Circus and a reunion of the Goon Show .
Writer Neil Gaiman says he fell in love with his wife , singer Amanda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fondly remembers seeing Lou Reed perform there .
Marc Rister recalls how the theatre offered `` different vibes '' depending on where you were in the building - downstairs was `` vey intimate '' and the upstairs was larger , giving the `` best of both worlds '' .
He first went there in 2017 to see Mostack , adding : `` It was honestly the best night of my life .
It was a massive shame to hear about the fire .
It would be very sad if it was gone forever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first gigs in London was Wild Beasts at Koko in 2010 , along with 1,500 other people - a show that gave the co-founder of London on the Inside `` goosebumps '' .
She became a regular at Club NME which was a `` super raucous '' club-night held at the venue on Fridays that would `` always unfold a different way each week '' .
`` You 'd meet some incredible characters , '' she says .
`` Amy Winehouse , Pete Doherty , Jameel Jamil and many other indie bands and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It would be dancing all night , drinking pints and waking up with a fair few stories to tell .
Gosh if those walls could only talk . ''

"We spent most of the gig hidden on one of the balconies talking at each other," she recalls. "With both gigs, and god knows how many others I've been to there, it was hard to keep your eyes on the stage because of how beautiful and old-school the building was.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Stormzy visits BBC Breakfast in his slippers

He may have played Glastonbury wearing a stab-proof vest , but Stormzy opted for a more comfortable outfit when he appeared on BBC Breakfast on Tuesday .
The rapper accidentally forgot to change out of his slippers before he got into a taxi to the studio in Salford .
`` I forgot , I 'm an idiot ! ''
he told hosts Dan Walker and Louise Minchin .
`` I did a signing in Bristol ... then I got in the car .
I was like , 'Ah damn , I ai n't got my trainers ! '
'' Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that be slipper up ? )
with one observing that Stormzy had proved `` what every middle-aged white man has known for years : slippers are cool . ''
Once the wardrobe malfunction had been explained , Stormzy addressed the recent controversy over his comments about racism in the UK .
The grime artist gave an interview to the Italian newspaper La Repubblica shortly before Christmas , in which he was asked if Britain was still racist , to which he replied : `` Definitely , 100 % '' - even if such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quote was used in several articles to suggest that Stormzy had said the UK was 100 % racist , rather than that he 100 % believed there was racism in the country .
`` It 's the classic media spin , '' the rapper told BBC Breakfast .
`` They know what they 're doing .
They 're weaponising what I said .
A lot of people thought I was trying to incite division - but that 's what [ the media ] did , really . ''
The 26-year-old , whose real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he 'd come to accept that fame meant his every word would be scrutinised .
`` I could say something now on the sofa in jest , or say something in passing , and it becomes a headline : 'Stormzy said that ! '
'' he observed .
`` It gets exaggerated and sensationalised .
`` I 'm not naïve to the fact that I 've progressed to the point now where I 've got a platform and I 've got influence and I 've got reach , '' he added .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ willing to use that and stand my ground and bite the bullet and stand up for whatever .
`` On the other end of the spectrum it 's overwhelming when you say a little thing and it [ goes crazy ] . ''
The start of 2020 has seen the rapper engaged in a war of words with fellow grime artist Wiley , who criticised Stormzy for working with Ed Sheeran on the number one single Own It .
`` You never cared about grime , you just used it , '' said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday .
`` Worse than Edward , you watered down music '' .
Stormzy responded by comparing Wiley to a `` drunk uncle '' , and releasing a song of his own , called Disappointed .
In the track he rapped : `` I 'm so big that the only thing bigger than me last year was Brexit / I ca n't tweet , I 'm too reckless / I 'm too BBC Breakfast . ''
Speaking about the lyrics on Tuesday , he said : `` I 've become a mainstream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a rapper .
Sometimes it gets weaponised against me - and I 'm saying , 'No , I 'm BBC Breakfast , I 'll take that all day ' . ''
He also spoke of his admiration for Ed Sheeran , saying : `` I love Ed .
That 's my brother .
I 've only got good words to say about that man . ''
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

"I'm not naïve to the fact that I've progressed to the point now where I've got a platform and I've got influence and I've got reach," he added. "And on most days I wake up willing to use that and stand my ground and bite the bullet and stand up for whatever.


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Bafta film awards 2020: Joker leads nominations amid diversity row

Joker leads the Bafta film nominations with 11 , but there is criticism that the acting nominees are all white .
Joker is followed by Martin Scorsese 's The Irishman and Quentin Tarantino 's Once Upon A Time ...
In Hollywood , which have 10 nominations each .
Scarlett Johansson and Margot Robbie are up for two acting awards each .
But no female directors were nominated for the seventh year in a row .
Bafta boss Amanda Berry said she was `` very disappointed '' by the lack of diversity .
• 10 - Once Upon a Time… in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joaquin Phoenix will be the favourite for best actor for his role in Joker , which tells the origin story of Batman 's nemesis and has divided some critics and audiences .
It 's 11 years since Heath Ledger won a posthumous Bafta for playing the same character in The Dark Knight .
• Will Gompertz reviews Joker : A work of art maybe , but is the violence valid ?
★★★★☆ But Phoenix will face competition from Taron Egerton , who played Sir Elton John in Rocketman , as well as Leonardo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Adam Driver for Marriage Story and Jonathan Pryce for The Two Popes .
Margot Robbie is up against herself in the best supporting actress category for roles in Bombshell and Once Upon A Time ... That category also includes Scarlett Johansson for Jojo Rabbit , while she is also up for best actress for her role opposite Driver in Netflix 's divorce drama Marriage Story .
The other best actress nominees are Renee Zellweger for playing Judy Garland in Judy , Jessie Buckley for Wild Rose , Charlize Theron for Bombshell , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But there is no room for Little Women film-maker Greta Gerwig - or any other women - in the best director category .
Told on BBC Radio 4 's Today programme that the acting list `` seems very white '' , Bafta CEO Berry replied : `` I 'm going to totally agree with you .
That 's how I felt when I first saw the list .
`` This is n't being disrespectful to anybody who has been nominated because it 's an incredibly strong list this year .
`` If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I hoped we would see at least one female director , that is an incredibly strong list when you have people like Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino and Sam Mendes , who have got multiple nominations in the past . ''
Gerwig did pick up a nomination for best adapted screenplay , however .
The actors who were overlooked included British star Cynthia Erivo , who was recently nominated for a Golden Globe for her role in Harriet , a biopic about Harriet Tubman 's escape from slavery .
The lists drew strong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BaftasSoWhite trending .
Director Rapman , whose controversial film Blue Story was overlooked except in the rising star category , wrote : `` The lack of of black faces is ridiculous . ''
Bafta 's deputy chairman Krishnendu Majumdar said the lack of female nominees in the best director category was an `` industry-wide problem '' and that Bafta was `` fiercely doing something about it '' with its schemes like Elevate .
Marc Samuelson , chair of Bafta 's film committee , said the issue was `` infuriating '' .
He added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry do something , all we can do is encourage and push and inspire and try to help people coming in at the bottom end . ''
Metro film critic Larushka Ivan-Zadeh told BBC News that the lack of a nomination for Gerwig was `` a real omission '' , while the main acting categories could have recognised Erivo , The Farewell star Awkwafina , and Us actress Lupita Nyong ' o .
`` Certainly when the list of actors came up , and it was wall to wall white faces for this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Ivan-Zadeh said .
`` Margot Robbie and Scarlett Johansson both had two nominations each - well done for them - but it just felt like you 're using up spaces that could be perhaps used for different and more diverse performances .
And it 's not that the performances are n't there . ''
Last year , Bafta introduced new criteria for two awards `` to encourage better representation and increased inclusivity across the British industry '' .
It said films would not be nominated for best British film or best British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of four `` diversity standards '' , which cover on-screen talent , storylines , creative leadership , training and underserved audiences .
This year 's best British film category includes Rocketman , Sam Mendes 's World War One drama 1917 and The Two Popes , starring Jonathan Pryce and Sir Anthony Hopkins as a pair of pontiffs .
The BFI , which oversees the diversity standards scheme , does not publish details of which criteria each film met , but confirmed all nominated films in the two categories met the diversity criteria .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ acting and directing awards .
There was more diversity on the shortlist for the rising star award , which was announced on Monday .
Awkwafina - who won a Golden Globe on Sunday - was nominated alongside Fighting with my Family 's Jack Lowden , Booksmart 's Kaitlyn Dever , Waves actor Kelvin Harrison Jr and Blue Story star Michael Ward .
Ward has said his nomination was a vindication of the film following controversies around its screenings .
The gang drama was temporarily withdrawn from Vue cinemas after seven police officers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Birmingham in November , where there were reports of youths with machetes .
Winners and nominees in most categories are voted for by 6,700 Bafta members , who are industry professionals and creatives around the world .
`` In many areas , our voting membership is more diverse than the industry , '' a Bafta statement said .
`` However diversity continues to be an issue that needs to be tackled urgently within the industry , and Bafta continues to work hard to increase opportunities for underrepresented groups through all of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place on 2 February at the Royal Albert Hall in London , hosted by Graham Norton .
This year has also seen the introduction of a category for best casting director - the Baftas ' first new category for more than two decades - following a campaign last year to recognise that arm of the film industry .
Follow us on Facebook , or on Twitter @ BBCNewsEnts .
If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

"Margot Robbie and Scarlett Johansson both had two nominations each - well done for them - but it just felt like you're using up spaces that could be perhaps used for different and more diverse performances. And it's not that the performances aren't there."


bbcuk--2020-01-07--Running marathon cuts years off 'artery age'

Training for and completing a marathon improves the health of a new runner 's arteries , cutting about four years off their `` vascular age '' , a study suggests .
Researchers from Barts and University College London tested 138 novice runners attempting the London Marathon .
Over six months of training , their arteries regained some youthful elasticity , which should reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes .
And their blood pressure fell as much as if they had been prescribed pills .
Those who were the least fit beforehand appeared to benefit the most .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a similar effect , according to the British Heart Foundation ( BHF ) , which funded the study , in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology .
How fast did they run ?
It took them between four and a half and five and a half hours , on average , to run the 26.2 miles .
Runners with a pre-existing but undiagnosed heart condition have died attempting marathons - but this is very rare .
Lead researcher Dr Charlotte Manisty said : `` People with known heart disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their doctor first .
`` But for most people , the benefits of taking up exercise far outweigh any risk . ''
• Is marathon running bad for you ?
• Ipswich runner 'died for three minutes ' after finishing race What is the best way to train ?
Start months before a marathon , begin each session with a warm-up and gradually increase the distance run .
Having rest days between runs allows joints and muscles to recover and strengthen .
Ask a doctor about any health concerns .
How much exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Over the course of every week , adults should do a minimum of either : • 150 minutes moderate-intensity exercise , such as brisk walking , doubles tennis or cycling • 75 minutes vigorous exercise , such as running , football or rugby People should also do strengthening activities - such as push-ups , sit-ups or lifting and carrying - at least two times a week to give muscles a good workout .
• Get running with couch to 5k BHF 's Prof Metin Avkiran said : `` The benefits of exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your risk of having a heart attack or stroke and cuts your chances of an early death .
`` As the old mantra goes , 'If exercise were a pill , it would be hailed as a wonder drug . '
''

Running marathon cuts years off 'artery age' Published 7 January 2020
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Image source, Getty Images
Training for and completing a marathon improves the health of a new runner's arteries, cutting about four years off their "vascular age", a study suggests.
Researchers from Barts and University College London tested 138 novice runners attempting the London Marathon.
Over six months of training, their arteries regained some youthful elasticity, which should reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
And their blood pressure fell as much as if they had been prescribed pills.
Those who were the least fit beforehand appeared to benefit the most.
And smaller amounts of aerobic exercise are likely to have a similar effect, according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), which funded the study, in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
How fast did they run?
It took them between four and a half and five and a half hours, on average, to run the 26.2 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Runners with a pre-existing but undiagnosed heart condition have died attempting marathons - but this is very rare.
Image source, Getty Images
Lead researcher Dr Charlotte Manisty said: "People with known heart disease or other medical conditions should speak to their doctor first.
"But for most people, the benefits of taking up exercise far outweigh any risk."
What is the best way to train?
Start months before a marathon, begin each session with a warm-up and gradually increase the distance run.
Having rest days between runs allows joints and muscles to recover and strengthen.
Ask a doctor about any health concerns.
How much exercise is needed to keep fit and healthy?
Over the course of every week, adults should do a minimum of either:
150 minutes moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, doubles tennis or cycling
75 minutes vigorous exercise, such as running, football or rugby
People should also do strengthening activities - such as push-ups, sit-ups or lifting and carrying - at least two times a week to give muscles a good workout.
BHF's Prof Metin Avkiran said: "The benefits of exercise are undeniable.
"Keeping active reduces your risk of having a heart attack or stroke and cuts your chances of an early death.
"As the old mantra goes, 'If exercise were a pill, it would be hailed as a wonder drug.'"