bbcuk--2020-08-13--UK heatwave: Thunderstorms and flash floods after scorching heat

Thunderstorms are moving across parts of the UK , after some areas saw the longest stretch of high temperatures since the 1960s .
The severe weather caused flash floods in parts of southern England on Thursday , bringing travel disruption .
The Met Office has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings for the next five days in much of England and Wales , with flooding , lightning and hail expected .
It comes after torrential rain and lightning lashed parts of Scotland .
Part of the M25 motorway in Surrey has been closed because of flash flooding , while in Kent 19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which became stuck after a landslide .
A yellow thunderstorm warning covering all of Wales , southern England and areas in the North West and Midlands is in place until midnight on Thursday .
The Met Office has warned that while some areas could stay dry , others could see as much as 40mm of rain falling in less than an hour amid severe thunderstorms .
There were thundery showers across southern England on Thursday afternoon , including the counties between Devon and Kent .
BBC Weather said about 12,000 lightning strikes were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hours leading up to 18:00 BST .
A wooden pavilion caught fire after a suspected lightning strike in the village of Barton Stacey in Hampshire , with eyewitness Donna Stokes saying there was a `` horrendously loud bang of thunder '' .
In Devon , homes were flooded following a collection of thunderstorms across south-west England on Thursday .
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said on Twitter it had received numerous calls relating to properties in Devon , with some residents reporting up to 18 inches of water inside their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flood alerts for certain areas in England and Scotland , which are separate from the weather warnings issued by the Met Office .
Thursday 's heavy downpours also sparked travel disruption on rail and roads in southern England .
There are closures in both directions on the M25 between junctions seven and eight near Reigate in Surrey due to flooding , according to Highways England .
Motorists have been urged to allow additional time for journeys , as the disruption has caused delays of one hour and about seven miles of congestion .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hail on the M25 near junction seven , as he shared a video of the flooding .
Hammersmith Bridge in west London has been closed to pedestrians after cracks in the structure worsened during the recent hot weather .
Meanwhile , British Transport Police rescued 19 people from a train which came to a stop between West Malling and Borough Green on Thursday .
Train operator Southeastern said the line between Otford and Maidstone East was expected to be closed for the rest of the day .
Network Rail has warned of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ networks until the end of the day - due to severe weather conditions .
It said reports of a landslip in the Merstham area in Surrey had closed the railway line via Redhill between East Croydon and Gatwick .
Flooding has also shut the railway between Tattenham Corner in Surrey and Coulsdon Town in Croydon .
Forecasters have warned severe thunderstorms could continue to bring flooding and disruption into next week .
Met Office meteorologist Matthew Box said there was a risk of thunderstorms `` right through to the start of next week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But he added that temperatures were cooler on Thursday , following days of scorching weather in parts of the UK .
A high of 29.6C ( 85.3F ) was recorded in the village of Frittenden in Kent , Mr Box said .
It comes after temperatures surpassed 34C in central London for the sixth day in a row on Wednesday - the first time that has happened since at least 1961 .
Skies across the UK were lit up by lightning as thunderstorms hit on Wednesday evening , following the week of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Wrexham , blowing out power sockets and setting fire to a curtain .
Fire crews were also called to deal with flooding incidents around Wrexham , as well as other parts of Wales including Denbighshire and Powys .
Several other places have recorded heavy downpours over the past 24 hours , such as Gnosall , West Midlands , which recorded 103.8mm of rain - over a month 's worth - in one night , according to BBC Weather .
On Wednesday , three people died after a passenger train derailed near Stonehaven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ train hit a landslide after heavy rain and thunderstorms .
Scotland 's Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said extreme weather `` had an impact '' on the accident .
A major incident was also declared in Fife .
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said it received more than 1,000 emergency calls on Tuesday night due to the severe weather .
The Environment Agency said 10 properties in Lancashire were also affected by flooding following storms .
Meanwhile , Devon and Cornwall Police warned the south west of England is `` full to capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' for 999 services .
The force said it saw an increase in anti-social behaviour and public order offences on Saturday and Sunday .
Assistant Chief Constable Jim Colwell said the weekend 's events , spurred on by the hot weather , had forced officers to attend a `` plethora of different incidents '' .
And in Sussex , more homeowners had water supplies cut off or restricted on Wednesday .
At least 300 householders had already been without tap water since Friday .
Steve Andrews , head of central operations for South @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million litres of extra water were being pumped into the network as the UK heatwave continues .

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bbcuk--2020-08-13--Seven arrested after paint attacks on party HQs

Seven people have been arrested after attacks on four political party headquarters , in which paint was reportedly thrown and windows broken .
The Metropolitan Police sent officers to buildings used by the Conservatives , Labour , the Lib Dems and the Green Party in London .
Pictures posted on Twitter by the Beyond Politics Party show pink paint daubed on masonry and windows .
Five people were arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage .
Two more were held on suspicion of burglary .
The incidents took place early on Thursday morning in Matthew Parker Street , Victoria Street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Beyond Politics - which campaigns for `` citizen-led decision making '' and was launched in June - accused all the parties targeted of being `` part of this corrupt and failing system '' and failing to protect the environment .
One member said : `` We are here today because neither the government nor any of the political parties are effectively standing up for the planet . ''
Beyond Politics 's Twitter feed shows a man dressed as a priest and a woman in a pink T-shirt standing outside Conservative Party HQ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banner saying : `` Treason , Treason , Treason . ''
They are also pictured sitting on the steps of Liberal Democrat HQ in George Street , with pink graffiti on the walls and windows behind them .
Labour , whose Victoria Street building had paint spread across much of its front , declined to comment on what it called a `` police matter '' .
A Liberal Democrat spokesperson said : `` Failure to tackle the climate crisis is doing irreversible damage .
`` That is why the Liberal Democrats are demanding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urgent action to implement a green recovery and reduce carbon emissions , protecting the planet for future generations . ''
A Green Party spokesperson said : `` The Green Party has been at the forefront of climate action for many years and will continue to drive forward a more democratic approach to politics which challenges climate and social injustice .
`` This is a police matter and so we are unable to comment any further . ''
The Conservative Party has also been asked for a response .
The Metropolitan Police said inquiries @ @ @

Beyond Politics - which campaigns for "citizen-led decision making" and was launched in June - accused all the parties targeted of being "part of this corrupt and failing system" and failing to protect the environment.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Boris Johnson: NI centenary to be handled 'sensitively'

The prime minister has said the centenary of Northern Ireland next year should be celebrated in a `` sensitive '' way .
During a visit to NI on Thursday , Boris Johnson addressed criticism of plans to celebrate the centenary .
It was the PM 's first trip to NI since power sharing was restored in January .
He said while for many people it would be `` something to celebrate '' , clearly there was the need to be `` sensitive to the point of view of all communities '' .
Northern Ireland was created in May 1921 following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outlined the first stage of plans to mark the centenary - the establishment of a centenary forum and a historical advisory panel .
The prime minister said commemorations would be done `` with the maximum possible academic focus and really try and get to the heart of the stories of all the possible perspectives and just try and build an appreciation of the past that has made us all . ''
During his visit Mr Johnson met First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill at Hillsborough Castle .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole of the Northern Ireland , looking forward to the future , looking forward to our young people having a place in the world , and that is what I want to see happening for our centenary plans , '' said Mrs Foster .
Northern Ireland Secretary of State Brandon Lewis said the centenary year would promote the region on a world stage .
Sinn Féin 's Ms O'Neill said she warned Mr Johnson there was `` nothing to celebrate '' with next year 's centenary .
She said it should be marked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conversation about partition and its `` failures '' .
The PM also met new Taoiseach ( Irish PM ) Micheál Martin at Hillsborough Castle .
It was his first face-to-face meeting with Mr Martin since a new government was formed in Dublin .
Mr Johnson said he had the `` honour of meeting the taoiseach several years ago '' and he was `` very pleased to develop [ their ] friendship and relationship now '' .
Boris Johnson presents himself as an optimist - a glass half-full prime minister rather than a glass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and jolly good nature he exudes ca n't hide the fundamental difficulties he faces when it comes to relations with the Stormont parties and Taoiseach Micheál Martin .
On Brexit , many around the NI Executive table worry that Northern Ireland will lose out and have big concerns over trading arrangements once the transition period ends .
There is much scepticism over what a `` Boris Brexit '' looks like - even his once-close allies in the DUP have real concerns about economic life for some businesses after the EU withdrawal .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worries that an influx of travellers from Britain could lead to a spike in the pandemic in Northern Ireland and the Republic - the new taoiseach sees things differently from his counterpart in London .
Mr Johnson will also highlight the additional funding for the Stormont executive , his support for a city growth deal and the five million pieces of PPE ( personal protective equipment ) that have come to NI from other parts of the UK .
As he tours the UK , he is a salesman for the union and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trip to flag up Northern Ireland 's centenary in 2021 .
Arlene Foster says events to mark the centenary can be inclusive .
Michelle O'Neill says there is nothing to celebrate .
The taoiseach said he and Mr Johnson agreed to create new structures to ensure co-operation between the Republic and the UK after Brexit .
The transition period is due to end on 1 January and a new trade system will begin operating between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK .
Last week , Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ease trade going from Great Britain to Northern Ireland .
Mr Johnson reiterated his promise that businesses in the region would enjoy unfettered access to markets in England , Scotland and Wales .
The prime minister said there would be a trade border down the Irish Sea `` over my dead body '' following Brexit .
He said it was important to have the Northern Ireland protocol , which ensures the region follows some of the EU 's rules to allow freedom of movement of goods and services across the Irish border .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ developing the relationship between the UK and Republic of Ireland `` in all sorts of ways - east-west , north-south , you name it '' .
Mr Martin said the pair would enjoy a warm working relationship .
`` It is important for us both in terms of the British-Irish relationship which has been the cornerstone of much progress on the island of Ireland and between our two countries for well over two to three decades , and we want to maintain that , '' he said .
`` It is challenging times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of that . ''
The Fianna Fáil leader said it was particularly fitting the engagement was taking place so soon after the death of former SDLP leader John Hume .
`` We remember John at moments like this because he did so much to facilitate these kind of meetings and make them much more regular in the normal course of events , '' he said .

"It is important for us both in terms of the British-Irish relationship which has been the cornerstone of much progress on the island of Ireland and between our two countries for well over two to three decades, and we want to maintain that," he said.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Coronavirus: How can I find a new job?

Coronavirus: How can I find a new job?

How do I start looking for a new job ?
How can I find out which jobs are available ?
@ @ @ @ @ from other applicants ?
What help is out there ?

Job vacancies: Which sectors are short of workers? Published 16 November 2021
Image source, Getty Images
Job vacancies are at a record high, rising to 1.17 million in the three months to October.
Latest figures also show the number of workers on payrolls jumped by 160,000 in October, despite the end of the furlough scheme.
Who's hiring?
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there were 388,000 more vacancies in this period (August to October 2021) than the three months immediately before the pandemic (January-March 2020), with record highs in 15 of its 18 sector categories.
Health
The health sector had the most vacancies between July and September with 183,000.
The King's Fund think tank says the NHS is facing a "workforce crisis".
According to the latest annual State of the Adult Social Care Sector and Workforce in England report, the sector is struggling to recruit and retain staff, with more unfilled posts now than at the start of the pandemic.
The government says extra funding and a regular recruitment drive will help boost the workforce.
Hospitality
The hospitality sector had 151,000 unfilled roles. Industry body UK Hospitality said chefs, security and front of house staff were particularly in demand.
The shortage is put down to a number a factors including job security fears in light of Covid, and Brexit.
It's leading some businesses to scale back their operations, with restaurants reducing opening hours and hotels closing off parts of their buildings.
Image source, Getty Images
Retail and transport
There were 91,000 vacancies in retail - Greggs and Next are among the high street names which have recently warned of staff shortages in the run-up to Christmas.
The British Retail Consortium said there were vacancies across the sector - for example in warehouses and logistics - and its supply chains, like flower-pickers, butchers and distribution centre operators.
There is also a UK-wide shortage of lorry drivers, with 53,000 vacancies in the transport sector
What effect did furlough have?
Furlough, the government's main coronavirus job support scheme, finished at the end of September.
There were fears this could lead to a spike in unemployment, with employers unable to keep staff on their books without the support it offered.
The ONS says it could take a few months for the full impact of furlough to be shown - but the latest figures show the number of workers on payrolls jumped by 160,000 in October, and strong demand for workers seems to have prevented the feared wave of job cuts.
How do I look for a job in this market?
Jobseekers should be ''strategic'' and target sectors experiencing shortages as well as those that are growing, says Gerwyn Davies, from human resources body the CIPD.
The shortage occupation list - used to offer work visas to people moving to the UK - shows where workers are needed. It includes fields like engineering, web programming and graphic design.
Consider your core skills, rather than hunting for a specific job title, suggests Corinne Mills, managing director of Personal Career Management.
For example, if you work in retail customer service, this could translate to other people-facing roles, such as sales.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Ten tips for getting your dream job
How can I find out who is recruiting?
Many companies list jobs on their own website or on recruitment sites.
You can also sign up with a general or specialist recruitment agency.
If you want to work for a particular company, check if it hires directly, or through a recruiter.
And if you want a specific job, be proactive and contact someone doing that role to discover how they got there.
Professional networks can also be useful. These could be LinkedIn or Facebook groups, or industry organisations, where jobs and events are posted and advice is available.
Some industries and employers have set up virtual networking events and job fairs.
How can I stand out from other applicants?
Corinne Mills suggests drawing on your personal network. Friends, family and acquaintances will collectively know hundreds of people, many of whom will be hiring.
Employers often respond to personal recommendations, and you may hear about roles before they are advertised.
Tech recruiter Amy Golding also recommends:


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Coronavirus: NI schools given new guidance for reopening

NI 's schools have received revised guidance for reopening with `` relaxed '' social distancing rules and optional face coverings in classrooms .
Education Minister Peter Weir said strict distancing between children `` may be relaxed in the presence of other mitigations '' such as hygiene measures .
But he said the current distancing guidance of 2m must `` continue to be followed between adults '' in schools .
Face coverings are `` acceptable '' but not `` recommended for routine use '' .
Schools in Northern Ireland closed in late March in a bid to prevent the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full-time basis later this month .
Pupils in Primary 7 , Year 12 , Year 14 and `` all vulnerable children '' are due to return to school on 24 August .
All other pupils will begin the new school year on the week beginning 31 August .
Details of the revised reopening guidance were reported by BBC News NI on Wednesday but the full document was published by the Department of Education on Thursday .
It said that strict social distancing requirements will be relaxed for all pupils but will remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` as far as is practicable between pupils and adults '' .
The guidance added : `` As far as is practicable , social distancing at 2m should be maintained for both children and adults who are not from the same household . ''
Mitigations , such as increased hygiene measures , have been suggested with the aim of keeping children safe where social distancing is not thought to be practical .
These include the formation of `` protective bubbles '' for primary school children and pupils in years 8-10 in post-primary schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommended that `` interactions between different year groups '' should be limited .
Regarding face coverings , the document stated that given the mitigations in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19 , `` face coverings are not generally recommended for routine use in schools '' .
However , it added that staff and pupils `` may wish to use them during the routine school day and this is acceptable '' .
It also said that schools should also be aware that some people are exempt from wearing face coverings .
The guidance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is different .
The document stated it is `` strongly recommended that all pupils , regardless of age , should wear a face covering on all buses , trains or taxis for the journey to school '' if it is appropriate in their case .
There are also separate rules for school staff and parents .
Face coverings `` must be worn in staff rooms '' and during staff meetings lasting more than 15 minutes .
Adults who are visiting school premises must also use face coverings .
In a statement , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a flexible approach to the use of existing spaces as a means of maximising face-to-face teaching opportunities '' .
Regarding space between pupils , the minister said : `` Within school , in circumstances where strict social distancing between children can not reasonably be applied , the use of 'protective bubbles ' , decreasing interaction and movement around the school must be followed .
`` This additional mitigating measure has been applied successfully by other countries in their arrangements for reopening of schools . ''

The document stated it is "strongly recommended that all pupils, regardless of age, should wear a face covering on all buses, trains or taxis for the journey to school" if it is appropriate in their case.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--A-level results: 'My future has been set back completely'

For students across England , Northern Ireland and Wales the wait is finally over for A-level and vocational qualification results .
But with exams cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic , many have seen their teacher-predicted grades lowered , leading to disappointment and confusion .
`` My future has been set back completely , '' says Abbi Fitzgerald .
The student at Wilberforce Sixth Form College in Hull got a Distinction* in her engineering BTec - the highest grade possible - but for her A-levels she got Ds in maths and art and an E in physics , after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` When I opened them I had a bit of a cry , '' she tells the BBC .
This year , schools submitted predicted grades to exam boards and ranked pupils based on who they thought would do best .
The exam boards then took into account data from previous years to adjust the marks , with the aim of ensuring consistency .
But headteachers have spoken of `` volatility '' in the results , with some saying lowered grades seem to be unfair .
For Abbi , this means she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ University to study engineering , and she says she is now considering sitting her exams later in the year or finding a place at another university through clearing .
`` I had my heart set on Durham and it 's now not an option for clearing because there 's no clearing for my course , '' she adds .
• How have exam results been decided this year ?
Abbi says the grading system seems `` unfair '' .
Vocational qualifications like BTecs often have continuous assessments throughout the course , but many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the year , making it harder to predict grades .
`` It goes to show that the ones I was supposed to do exams in that I did n't get to , I got awful grades , I got downgraded , '' she says .
`` And the one that reflects all the work I 've done over the past two years , I got the highest grade that I could possibly get . ''
She says she is angry her results have been affected by something out of her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have happily sat the exams but it was up to the government . ''
For Maimuna Hassan , from Acton in west London , her results also came as a `` complete shock '' .
After being predicted A*A*A by her teachers , she was only awarded A*AB , meaning she missed her university offers to study engineering at Cambridge and Imperial College London .
Maimuna believes her results were downgraded because of the historically lower grades at her comprehensive school in Chiswick , which has twice been rated as `` requires improvement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't take individual circumstances into account , '' she adds .
Born in Switzerland and the eldest child of Somali immigrants , English is her third language and Maimuna says she had to work harder than most to achieve top grades throughout her school career .
She now feels `` let down '' by the system and says she has little faith in the appeals process which could allow her mock results of A*A*A to be used instead .
On Wednesday , the Department for Education announced that for pupils in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lower than their mock exams they can appeal - but this will have to be through their school , with the terms for approving appeals to be decided by regulator Ofqual .
They also have the option of taking a written exam in the autumn , giving them the chance to secure a higher grade .
But with just two months to prepare Maimuna worries she would not fulfil her potential .
`` I 'm going to start revising tomorrow just in case , '' she adds .
Toby Newton , from Hillingdon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to achieve his dream of studying medicine , with predicted grades of A*A*A .
However , his plans have been put on hold after he was only awarded BBC .
`` It was incredibly disheartening , '' he says , adding that many of his school friends are in a similar situation .
`` I feel like the government have let us down and I 'm hoping they 'll reconsider the points and how they are being rewarded . ''
Toby now plans to appeal to see if his mock results of ABB @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the option of studying at a European university .
`` I 've always wanted to be a doctor and I still want to be a doctor , so it has n't put me off , '' he says .
Not everyone is disappointed , though .
Overall results across England , Northern Ireland and Wales show record highs for A* and A grades at A-level .
Caitlyn Foley , a student at Merthyr College in south Wales , says she is `` very pleased '' after being awarded an A* and three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit weird having to deal with all the changes so last minute , '' she says .
`` I was nervous , just because I knew I worked hard all throughout the year , and I was disappointed because I could n't perform and do my exams and prove it to myself . ''
Others have benefitted from the last-minute changes .
Fellow student Tom Bush was awarded an A and two Bs but this will be upgraded to two As and a B , after ministers in Wales promised students ' A-level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than what they achieved at AS-level the previous year .
However , he says he still found the uncertainty leading up to results day `` frustrating '' .
`` I know things happen but we 've had quite a long time to prepare for this and it seems to just have all gone up in the air a couple of days before . ''

On Wednesday, the Department for Education announced that for pupils in England, if their results day grades are lower than their mock exams they can appeal - but this will have to be through their school, with the terms for approving appeals to be decided by regulator Ofqual.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Lightning pictures: Spectacular storms light up England skies

Spectacular thunderstorms have continued to hit parts of the UK , lighting up the skies overnight .
Torrential downpours also @ @ @ @ @ flooding across parts of the West Midlands , in particular .
The Met Office has @ @ @ @ @ more thunderstorms covering most of the UK which stretches into next week .
Below is @ @ @ @ @ the most spectacular photos shared with BBC News of the lightning across England on Wednesday @ @

Below is a selection of some of the most spectacular photos shared with BBC News of the lightning across England on Wednesday night.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--How have my exam results been decided this year?

Hundreds of thousands of 18-year-olds in England , Wales and Northern Ireland have received their A-level and vocational qualification results .
This year 's results are very different , because coronavirus meant that students did not sit exams , and it 's all about predictions .
When will I get my results ?
Results come out at different times throughout the summer .
• 13 August ( 08:00 BST ) England , Wales and Northern Ireland 's A-level and AS-level results and A-level equivalent technical qualifications like BTECs and Cambridge Technicals • 20 August - GCSE results in England , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equivalent technical qualifications How have the results been decided ?
The methods of deciding the results are broadly similar across all four nations and for qualifications including A-levels , GCSE 's , Scottish Nationals and Highers .
Schools and colleges were asked to predict the grades pupils would have achieved in each subject if they had sat the exams .
These predictions were sent to the exam boards along with the order of who teachers thought would do best .
The exam boards put together the information , taking into account data for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The aim was to make sure the final results were fair and consistent and in line with results from previous years .
England 's regulator Ofqual said the idea was to ensure confidence in the results , to give them the same value as grades from any other year .
Vocational and technical qualifications come in many shapes and sizes and some of the awarding bodies lack the wealth of data available to major exam boards .
However , the majority of vocational and technical students will receive grades calculated in a similar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carrying out quality assurance in line with national regulations .
Students are not allowed to know the grade their school or college predicted for them until results day .
However , once they have their final results , students can ask for this information .
• A-level and GCSE results to be higher Can I appeal against my exam results ?
The Department for Education has announced a `` triple lock '' - so results will be the highest out of the grade students received from the exam board on results day in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ optional written exam in the autumn .
The change means that if pupils ' results day grades are lower than their mock exams they can appeal - but this will have to be through their school , with the terms for approving appeals to be decided by Ofqual .
You must ask your school or college to enter you if you want to take an exam , and take all the papers in your chosen subjects .
If you achieve a different grade , you can use whichever is highest when applying for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teachers ' predicted grades will now be used after anger that the adjusted grades unfairly hit disadvantaged students .
In Wales , the final A-Level results will be no lower than grades earned at AS-Levels , which are done in Year 12 and count towards 40 % of the final grade .
They do not count towards final grades in England .
In Northern Ireland , the system is similar to England , with grades based on teacher predictions and adjusted by their exams board .
Amid uncertainty about grades in England , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` flexible as possible '' and keep places open for students if they need to appeal .
Students who are unhappy with their grades are advised to speak first to their school or college .
How will Ucas schemes work this year ?
The good news for this year 's university applicants is that there are fewer 18-year-olds than in some years .
This means it could be easier to secure a university place that you want .
Last year 70,000 students got places through the university admission service Ucas 's clearing system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into anything .
Discuss what you 're being offered with your school or college and do n't be afraid to question university admissions teams .
If you have better grades than you expected , look at Ucas 's adjustment scheme to see if you can trade up to courses or universities that suit your career plans best .
In some cases , your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ & conditions and privacy policy .
Use this form to ask your question :

GCSE results 2023, BTec Level 2 and National 5s – the full guide Published 1 day ago
Image source, PA Media
Students in England, Northern Ireland and Wales are waiting to find out what grades they will get in their GCSEs and other Level 2 qualifications, as results' day approaches.
It is the second year of formal exams since the hiatus during the pandemic, and some changes to how things worked continued to be implemented, depending on where pupils were based.
When is GCSE results day 2023? When are other exam results published?
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, GCSE results will come out on 24 August.
Vocational technical qualification (VTQ) students, which includes Level 2 BTec and Cambridge Technicals, will receive results on, or before, 24 August.
In Scotland, SQA results (based on National 5s and National 4s) were published on 8 August, with pass rates down from last year but higher than they were before Covid.
How can I appeal against GCSE results? How about other exam results?
If you are unhappy with your grade, you should first talk to your school or college.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, your school will contact the exam board on your behalf and ask for your marks to be reviewed.
If you still think you have been unfairly graded after a review, you can ask your school or college to appeal.
If you are still not satisfied, you can request a review from Ofqual.
In Scotland, the process is slightly different.
If you have concerns about your final grade, you can appeal directly to the SQA for free. Speak to your school or college first.
If your appeal is accepted, the exam board will look at the marks you received.
The charity YoungMinds points out results are not the only measure of success - and if things do not turn out how you had hoped, there are lots of other ways to help you achieve your goals.
Can I resit an exam?
Yes, you can resit any GCSE or National 5 exam the following year. GCSE maths and English exams take place in November.
If you want to explore this option, you should speak to your school about the best course of action.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Students received less additional help this year compared with other years immediately after the pandemic
Will GCSE grade boundaries be lower than usual?
England
As usual, senior examiners will decide the minimum marks needed for each grade.
However, because of the disruption caused by Covid, exam boards in England will be "slightly" more lenient than before the pandemic when deciding grade boundaries.
This will protect students who performed slightly less well than expected in these exams.
Results are predicted to fall back in line with pre-pandemic levels this year, after three years of higher grades.
Ofqual, England's exam regulator, said the following support was available for GCSE exams this year:
Students in maths, physics, and combined-science exams were allowed to use formulae and equation sheets
Exams in the same subject were more spaced out than usual, to give students more time to revise between papers
Modern-foreign-language papers were no longer testing students on unfamiliar vocabulary
Wales
In Wales, grades will continue to be awarded more generously than before the pandemic, midway between the 2019 and 2022 results.
The Welsh Joint Education Committee (WJEC) exam board provided advance information for its papers across a range of subjects, revealing the focus of some of the questions, to help pupils revise.
There was no advance information for any other papers taken in Wales.
And unlike last year, Qualification Wales, which oversees Welsh exams, said there had been no changes to the content of courses.
Northern Ireland
The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment (CCEA) exam board, which covers most pupils in Northern Ireland, provided advance information for most subjects and says examiners will take Covid disruption into account.
Scotland
The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) said its grading would be "sensitive" because of the continuing impact of the pandemic.
It took similar steps to last year to help students, such as removing or reducing exams or elements of coursework, but plans for exams to go fully back to normal next year.
What happens next?
Many pupils go on to study A-levels in England, Wales and Northern Ireland or Advanced Highers in Scotland.
International Baccalaureate (IB) is also an option, as are vocational courses such as National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), BTec Level 3s, TechBacs, Cambridge Technicals and (in England only) T-levels.
You could also consider an apprenticeship. Apprentices get paid a salary as they spend 80% of their time in the workplace, while being trained.
Other options include going straight into full-time work or an internship.
The National Careers Service has more information.
What questions do you have about results day? Whether you have queries about A-levels, GCSEs, Highers or vocational courses, 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. You can also get in touch in the following ways:


bbcuk--2020-08-13--A levels: Why did I not get the grades I expected?

With A-level results being decided in a very different way this year , many students have been left confused and @ @ @ @ @ Education editor Branwen Jeffreys explains how the process has worked and what you can do @ @ @ @ @ what you expected .

With A-level results being decided in a very different way this year, many students have been left confused and frustrated by their grades.
Education editor Branwen Jeffreys explains how the process has worked and what you can do if you didn't get what you expected.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--A-level results day: 'I haven't got into uni because of it'

Many students at Wilberforce Sixth Form Academy in Hull have been frustrated by their A-level and BTec results and what @ @ @ @ @ and unfair system to decide grades .
One told the BBC that her grades had @ @ @ @ @ her a place at university .
Principal Colin Peaks says the situation `` does n't @ @ @ @ @

Many students at Wilberforce Sixth Form Academy in Hull have been frustrated by their A-level and BTec results and what they see as a confusing and unfair system to decide grades.
One told the BBC that her grades had been downgraded which has cost her a place at university.
Principal Colin Peaks says the situation ''doesn't make any sense''.
Video journalist: Tobias Chapple


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Why are we having so many thunderstorms?

How do you cope in a heatwave ?
Carol Kirkwood learns about a citizen science experiment inviting people to record @ @ @ @ @ and describe how they cope in the heat .

Why are we having so many thunderstorms? Video, 00:01:15Why are we having so many thunderstorms?


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Coronavirus travel: Majorca's party capital deserted

Every year , more than two and a half million British tourists head out to Majorca on holiday .
Magaluf @ @ @ @ @ ’ s party capital , where young Brits have been coming each summer for decades @ @ @ @ @ been a huge drop in tourists coming from the UK , partly because Majorca has @ @ @ @ @ of destinations where travellers have to quarantine on return .
The main bars and nightclubs @ @ @ @ @ shut down by police , after clubbers were caught on camera ignoring social distancing rules @ @ @ @ @ two British Club reps who have found themselves without work and living in a ghost @ @

Every year, more than two and a half million British tourists head out to Majorca on holiday.
Magaluf has long been the island’s party capital, where young Brits have been coming each summer for decades.
But there’s been a huge drop in tourists coming from the UK, partly because Majorca has been added to the list of destinations where travellers have to quarantine on return. The main bars and nightclubs in Magaluf have also been shut down by police, after clubbers were caught on camera ignoring social distancing rules.
BBC News spoke to two British Club reps who have found themselves without work and living in a ghost town.
Video by Gavin Lee, Sira Thierij, Pol Reynolds and Maarten Lernout


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Coronavirus: Preparing for a post-lockdown musical

Preparations are under way to raise the curtain on what is believed to be the first live indoor show in @ @ @ @ @ Sleepless : A Musical Romance , is based on the film Sleepless in Seattle , @ @ @ @ @ Ryan .
Cast members hope to be performing to a socially distanced theatre audience on @ @ @ @ @ to BBC Breakfast 's Tim Muffett about how they 're getting ready for post-lockdown performances @

Preparations are under way to raise the curtain on what is believed to be the first live indoor show in the UK since lockdown.
Sleepless: A Musical Romance, is based on the film Sleepless in Seattle, starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.
Cast members hope to be performing to a socially distanced theatre audience on 25 August.
They spoke to BBC Breakfast's Tim Muffett about how they're getting ready for post-lockdown performances.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--The Papers: Results "fiasco" and new UK quarantine for France

The government 's decision to add France to its quarantine list has prompted a `` scramble '' among British holidaymakers @ @ @ @ @ and flights home before the new rules kick in , according to the Times ' @ @ @ @ @ Channel Tunnel service has said its services are `` absolutely chocca '' , while cross-channel @ @ @ @ @ already operating reduced services , the paper says .
It warns that the scale of @ @ @ @ @ to stay on their holidays and self-isolate when they return , leading to children missing @ @ @ @ @ new school term .
The Times also reports a `` revolt '' by Tory MPs @ @ @ @ @ handling of A-level results .
As data showed the government 's marking system had hit @ @ @ @ @ students hardest , the paper says many Tory MPs have voiced fears it could jeopardise @ @ @ @ @ from Labour in northern England .

The Daily Mirror says the government "is wide open to charges of championing the privileged few over the mistreated many" - and says the marking down of so many students "means that instead of levelling pupils up, they are held back".


bbcuk--2020-08-13--'Failing leadership' at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Trust

`` Failing leadership '' at two troubled hospitals is `` perpetuating poor care '' the chief inspector of hospitals says .
Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust has been in special measures since November 2018 .
Since then further concerns have come to light .
The latest inspections show more services have been downgraded and `` further serious concerns '' identified .
SaTH said it was taking `` immediate action '' to improve performance and delivery of care .
Following Care Quality Commission ( CQC ) inspections on 9 and 10 June , focusing on the hospital trust 's general @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Telford 's Princess Royal have been rated inadequate on every measure .
Criticism included the competency of staff in some roles , national guidance not being followed for some procedures and the lack of accuracy in patient records .
It included both issues `` previously identified '' which had not been addressed and `` new areas for concern '' .
`` The trust 's issues have been perpetuated by its leaders ' collective failure to demonstrate that they had the skills and abilities to meet the challenges the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
CQC Chief Inspector of Hospitals Ted Baker wrote to NHS England 's chief operating officer last month about his latest concerns .
The letter , seen by the BBC , said the trust was `` normalising poor care '' across departments , not just in maternity and emergency care , which have attracted the most criticism in recent years .
Since it was put into special measures , the trust has become subject to a criminal investigation into baby deaths , while an independent inquiry into the same issue has been widened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases .
`` We have repeatedly called for intervention to support improvement at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals NHS Trust , '' Mr Baker said .
He therefore welcomed a partnership with University Hospitals Birmingham , announced last week , which is designed to provide `` leadership expertise '' .
He described it as an important `` first step towards implementing the urgent changes that are required '' .
The hospital trust Chief Executive Louise Barnett , who started in February , said : `` I am determined we take immediate action to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of care at SaTH . ''
She said the partnership with UHB would help deliver `` a rapid improvement plan '' that would `` support clinically safe and sustainable patient services '' .
Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .
Send your story ideas to : newsonline.westmidlands @ bbc.co.uk

Since it was put into special measures, the trust has become subject to a criminal investigation into baby deaths, while an independent inquiry into the same issue has been widened and is now reviewing more than 1,800 cases.


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Stonehaven train derailment: Tributes paid to three victims

The families of three men killed in a train derailment in Aberdeenshire have told of their devastation at their deaths .
Train driver Brett McCullough , conductor Donald Dinnie and a passenger now named as Christopher Stuchbury , 62 , died in the incident near Stonehaven .
A major investigation has begun into the derailment , believed to have been caused by a landslip after heavy rain .
Mr Stuchbury , from Aberdeen , worked for a marine services firm in the city .
In a statement his family said : `` Chris was a much adored husband , son @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brother and uncle and was a treasured and loved friend to many . ''
• What we know about the Stonehaven derailment Mr Stuchbury worked for Targe Towing and volunteered at Roxburghe House hospice in Aberdeen in his spare time .
Earlier , the family of Mr McCullough described how his death had left a `` huge void '' in their lives .
His wife Stephanie said : `` Words can not describe the utterly devastating effect of Brett 's death on his family and friends .
`` We have lost a wonderful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most awful of circumstances .
`` Brett was the most decent and loving human being we have ever known and his passing leaves a huge void in all our lives .
`` We would like to thank the emergency services for their heroic efforts in helping everyone affected by this tragedy and for all the messages of support and condolence we have received . ''
The 45-year-old father-of-three was originally from Bromley in Kent .
He worked out of the Aberdeen rail depot and lived near the scene of the derailment .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , whose family said they were devastated by the loss of a `` loving and proud dad , son , partner , brother , uncle and friend '' .
`` No words could ever describe how much he will be missed by us all and there will always be a missing piece in our hearts , '' they said in a statement .
`` It is so heart warming to see how many people have fond memories of Donald and I am sure they have plenty of happy and funny stories to tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and genuine person who was never found without a smile on his face .
We know he will be deeply missed by all . ''
Mr Dinnie had also worked as a driver and guard during his railway career .
It is thought that the 06:38 Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street service was derailed by a landslide after heavy rain in the area .
The alarm was raised at about 09:40 on Wednesday morning .
Six others who were on the train were taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary .
NHS Grampian said four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the other two patients were in a stable condition .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the `` hearts of a nation '' were with those affected .
Scottish Transport Secretary Michael Matheson , UK Transport Minister Grant Shapps and Network Rail chief executive Andrew Haines all visited the site of the crash on Thursday .
Mr Shapps has asked Network Rail to produce an interim report by 1 September on the `` wider issues '' that may have led to the derailment .
He said he wanted to see resilience checks carried out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few hours '' , given the concern about flash floods in the area .
`` We absolutely need to make sure it does n't happen again and that 's why I 've asked Network Rail to deliver that report to me so quickly , '' he said .
He also said he spoke with PC Liam Mercer , the first officer on the scene , and commended him for his bravery .
And he understood an off-duty conductor managed to get off a carriage and run to alert operators , while a member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen smoke billowing from the trees .
Mr Matheson said he did not want to speculate about what had caused the incident .
`` What I think we can assess , though , is that weather has had an impact , '' he said .
`` We are seeing increasingly a higher level of what are localised intense weather events that are having an impact on the transport network , including the rail network .
`` What we need to do as part of the investigation is identify to what extent it had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lessons can be learned . ''
He said some parts of the country had seen a month 's rainfall in just a couple of hours on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning .
He added that the derailment happened as the train driver was heading north , trying to return to Aberdeen , and that one crew member got out of the derailed train to prevent any other trains coming down the track .
Mr Haines said he did not want to pre-empt the outcome of the investigation .
But he added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and there were floods and landslips in the area .
`` Our climate is changing and it is increasingly challenging the performance and reliability of the railway , but incidents like yesterday 's devastating accident are incredibly rare , and our railway remains the safest major railway in Europe .
`` Yesterday was a tragedy , a truly horrific event , and my thoughts remain with everyone affected .
Understanding what happened is the key to making sure it never occurs again . ''
Network Rail said it would carry out detailed inspections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the site of the Aberdeenshire crash .
Dozens of sites across Britain will be assessed using in-house engineers , specialist contractors and helicopter surveys .
Scotland 's Lord Advocate has asked Police Scotland , British Transport Police and the Office of Rail and Road , the independent regulator , to conduct a joint investigation into the accident .
It will be carried out under the direction of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service , and will run in parallel to the independent safety investigation being carried out by the Rail Accident @ @ @

"It is so heart warming to see how many people have fond memories of Donald and I am sure they have plenty of happy and funny stories to tell. He was a kind, caring and genuine person who was never found without a smile on his face. We know he will be deeply missed by all."


bbcuk--2020-08-13--Coronavirus in Wales: Plans to relax indoor meeting rules postponed

Lockdown rules on meeting people indoors in Wales will not be relaxed this weekend , as previously suggested .
However , up to four households - up from two - will be able to form an extended household from 22 August , as long as conditions `` remain stable '' .
First Minister Mark Drakeford said it was important not to jeopardise progress .
He also said all hospitality businesses would have to collect customers ' contact details to help tracing .
Further enforcement measures are also being introduced to make sure businesses follow Covid-19 safety rules .
• What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• How many people have died with covid in Wales ?
A fortnight ago Mark Drakeford said he `` would like to be able to offer more opportunities for people to meet indoors '' from 15 August .
However he added this was `` the most risky thing you can do '' and says he has now decided not to make any changes this weekend .
`` We are learning from what is happening across the UK and outbreaks are mainly linked to people meeting others inside the home , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is so important we do n't invite people outside our extended households into our homes .
`` We have made so much progress and we must n't jeopardise this .
`` That means we are not at a point where we should be visiting anyone 's home at any time . ''
People in Wales can only meet up indoors if they are part of an extended household .
Currently an extended household can only be made up of two households , but from next weekend the cap will increase to four .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ point to break up an existing extended household to form a new one , under the rules .
Also from next weekend a meal following a wedding , civil partnership or funeral will be allowed for up to 30 people indoors if social distancing can be maintained .
The first minister has also announced that new powers will be introduced on Monday requiring all hospitality businesses to collect customers ' contact details .
This will mean people `` can be contacted quickly by our test , trace , protect teams if they may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Drakeford said .
Local authorities are already able to issue improvement or closure notices to businesses who are not complying with Covid-19 safety rules .
Now the Welsh Government says any business issued with such a notice will have to display a sign .
`` This pandemic is far from over and we all still have a duty to do our part to keep Wales safe , '' the first minister said .
Since lockdown rules started to be lifted this is the first time Mark Drakeford has decided not to relax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had provisionally set out .
He always warns that any changes are conditional on the spread of the virus at the time , but his tone was particularly cautious when he talked a couple of weeks ago about potentially allowing more people to meet inside from the 15th of August .
Mr Drakeford claimed that was the `` most risky thing you can do '' and he would study the evidence carefully .
He has now decided to wait a little longer before allowing a limited relaxation of the restrictions - a decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what has happened in other parts of the UK where local outbreaks have occurred .
He says those spikes have been caused by people transmitting the virus indoors , and poor compliance by some businesses .
That is why ministers here are also toughening their approach towards companies found to be flouting the rules .

"That's why we decided we wouldn't introduce these changes until Saturday the 22nd of August, because it gives families the opportunity to have those conversations, and then to make the right choices, because once you've decided which households are to form your extended household, then that's how it has to be, you can't pick and choose and chop and change."


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Coronavirus: France to be added to UK quarantine countries

Thousands of holidaymakers have seen their plans thrown into chaos after UK quarantine measures were imposed on France from Saturday .
The 14-day isolation requirement from 04:00 BST also now applies to people arriving from the Netherlands , Monaco , Malta , Turks and Caicos , and Aruba .
It comes after France 's prime minister acknowledged infection numbers were going `` the wrong way '' .
France warned it would take `` reciprocal measures '' .
Clement Beaune , France 's secretary of state for European affairs , tweeted that the UK 's decision was a matter of `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Grant Shapps said the decision was triggered when the rate of infection in the affected countries exceeded 20 cases per 100,000 people over seven days .
The quarantine requirement was previously applied to Spain , another popular destination for UK holidaymakers , at the end of July .
`` We 've worked so hard in this country to get our level of infections down , the last thing we want do is to have people returning and bringing the infection with them .
It 's to protect everybody , '' Mr Shapps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 160,000 British holidaymakers currently in France , he said .
The deadline is expected to induce a rush to ports and airports , with thousands of tourists desperate to avoid quarantine .
• I 'm in France right now - what do I do ?
• Lockdown to ease further in England from Saturday • Where are the world 's coronavirus hotspots ?
Others who can not return in time face disruption to work or schooling .
Katie , a teacher on holiday in the south of France , told the BBC that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ means she has no chance to return in time , so she and her children will miss the start of term .
`` We have done everything the government has asked of us for months but I really think they need to treat us all with a little respect and give us time to organise ourselves so that we can continue with our jobs , and our children with their lives , '' she said .
Eurotunnel said its Channel Tunnel trains were fully booked until Saturday .
Earlier , customers had faced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mariana Fabricante , who is trying to return from the mountain resort of Tignes with her family , said : `` Every time I try to change the ticket , the website is busy .
People would be able to make informed decisions if they had been told in advance .
It 's annoying and frustrating . ''
John Keefe , director of public affairs at Getlink , which operates the Channel Tunnel , warned people not to travel to the terminal without a confirmed booking .
`` There is no space available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some flights to the UK from Paris were more than £450 , compared to £66 on Saturday .
Many direct flights from the south of France are sold out .
The cheapest Eurostar tickets were £210 , compared with £165 on Saturday .
But DFDS Ferries said it had added an extra four departures from Calais to help Britons return in time .
It said bookings must be made before arriving at port .
Some holidaymakers said they would accept the quarantine restrictions on their return instead .
Jonathan Fieldsend from Woodbridge in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return from France with his family until 18 August , said : `` We came fully accepting the risk we were taking of quarantine being introduced .
We are not going to be rushing back . ''
Airlines UK described the quarantine restrictions as `` another devastating blow to the travel industry already reeling from the worst crisis in its history '' .
The UK 's ambassador to France , Lord Llewellyn , acknowledged that the new quarantine rule would be `` unwelcome news '' for Britons in the country , but stressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as long as they follow safety precautions and self-isolate on their return .
Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds said while the Labour party supports `` evidence based measures '' at the border , it was `` vital '' that No 10 had a `` joined-up strategy '' and `` urgently '' puts in place a specific deal to support the heavily impacted travel sector .
The MP added : `` That the government has still not put in place an effective track , trace and isolate system has made matters far worse and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reliant on the blunt tool of 14-day quarantine . ''
He called on Downing Street to publish science behind its decisions , `` and details of any work being done to reduce the time needed to isolate through increased testing and other measures '' .
According to the data company Statista , people from the UK paid 10.35 million visits to France last year , putting it second behind Spain - with 18.12 million - in terms of popularity .
The Foreign Office is now warning against `` all but essential travel '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imposed for Spain on 25 July .
A list of more than 50 so-called travel corridors - allowing movement between the UK and the other countries with the need to self-isolate on return - was published at the start of last month and later expanded .
But the ending of some of the exemptions on the list follows a `` significant change '' in the risk of contracting Covid-19 , the Department for Transport said .
It added that there had been a 66 % increase in newly reported cases per 100,000 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Netherlands , it was up 52 % .
And the increase for Malta was 105 % , while it was 273 % for Turks and Caicos and 1,106 % for Aruba .
Ahead of a government meeting on the new measures , UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised to be `` absolutely ruthless '' in deciding on rules for holidaymakers from abroad .
`` We ca n't be remotely complacent about our own situation .
Everybody understands that in a pandemic you do n't allow our population to be re-infected or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he added .
On Thursday , France reported 2,524 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours , the highest daily increase since its lockdown was lifted in May .
The country 's Prime Minister , Jean Castex , said on Tuesday that coronavirus numbers had been going `` the wrong way '' for a fortnight .
• What are the rules in France and other parts of Europe ?
• How will the world vaccinate seven billion people ?
• You finally got abroad , but was it worth it ?
Meanwhile , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in England who repeatedly refuse to wear a face covering could double to £3,200 , while organisers of illegal raves could face a £10,000 penalty .
But from Sunday , indoor theatre , music and performance venues will be able to reopen with socially distanced audiences .
Casinos , bowling alleys , skating rinks and soft play centres will also be allowed to resume , as will `` close-contact '' beauty services such as facials , eyebrow threading and eyelash treatments .
Will you be affected by the quarantine ?
Email haveyoursay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
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"We have done everything the government has asked of us for months but I really think they need to treat us all with a little respect and give us time to organise ourselves so that we can continue with our jobs, and our children with their lives," she said.


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Coronavirus: Lockdown to ease further in England from Saturday

More beauty treatments , small wedding receptions and live indoor performances will be able to resume in England from Saturday , as lockdown rules are eased .
Bowling alleys , casinos and soft play centres will also be able to reopen , PM Boris Johnson has announced .
It comes as the government introduces bigger fines for failing to wear a mask in places where it is compulsory .
Meanwhile , quarantine measures have been imposed on more countries , including France and the Netherlands .
The easing of lockdown rules is now due to come into force on Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to concerns about a slight increase in the number of people testing positive for coronavirus in England .
Last week , figures from the Office of National Statistics showed this may be levelling off .
Under the latest changes : • Indoor theatre , music and performance venues will be able to reopen with socially distanced audiences • Wedding receptions in the form of a sit-down meal for up to 30 guests will be permitted • The piloting of a small number of sporting events to test the safe return of spectators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield 's Crucible Theatre over the weekend • Casinos , bowling alleys , skating rinks and soft play centres will be allowed to reopen • `` Close contact '' beauty services such as facials , eyebrow threading , eyelash treatments , make up application and microblading will resume • Pilots will take place at conference venues ahead of the expected resumption of business events from 1 October at the earliest The new guidance will not apply in areas where local lockdown measures are in place , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week introduced in Preston and kept in place in 18 other areas to control outbreaks .
• What are the rules for face masks or face coverings ?
• How to stay cool in a face mask • What ca n't I do in the local lockdowns ?
Devolved administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland have the power to set their own timings for the easing of restrictions .
The prime minister said that plans to open up more of the economy this weekend `` will allow more people to return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to more of the things they have missed '' .
But Mr Johnson reiterated a warning that the government `` will not hesitate to put on the brakes if required , or to continue to implement local measures to help to control the spread of the virus '' .
New guidance will also mean that staff offering `` close contact '' services , including hairdressers , will now have to wear a face mask as well as a clear visor .
The government said the move , which follows new evidence from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sage ) is aimed at protecting customers and staff from respiratory droplets caused by sneezing , coughing , or speaking .
It also applies to businesses that operate remotely , such as massage therapists working in people 's homes , and those learning in vocational training environments .
Nightclubs and discos are among the venues that remain closed in law .
Under current guidance , people who refuse to wear a face covering where it is required face a £100 fine , which can be reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that penalty repeatedly doubled for subsequent offences , up to a maximum of £3,200 .
`` Most people in this country are following the rules and doing their bit to control the virus , but we must remain focused and we can not be complacent , '' Mr Johnson said .
`` That is why we are strengthening the enforcement powers available to use against those who repeatedly flout the rules . ''
Just as cases of Covid-19 rose in the spring , peaked and fell , so has the use by police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This means that instead , officers have increasingly preferred to `` engage , explain and encourage '' in the police jargon .
It is difficult and sometimes risky work .
`` Encouraging '' large groups of young people to leave illegal parties has led to violence .
Senior officers say they are prepared to prosecute the organisers .
However , in general , police believe they have got people to follow the rules hundreds of thousands of times without handing out fines .
The question is whether local breakouts of the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second wave '' will increase the pressure for a tougher approach .
As countries are added to the list of those from which returning travellers have to quarantine , there could also be questions about whether there is a realistic risk of catching people who refuse to do so .
In England , face coverings are mandatory in many indoor settings , including public transport , shops and museums , with some exemptions for children or on medical grounds .
Transport for London and British Transport Police have already made 91,501 interventions based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government said - preventing 4,397 from boarding , asking 3,030 to leave the network and issuing 341 penalty notices .
There will also be a clampdown on illegal gatherings of more than 30 people , which could see those responsible hit with spot fines of up to £10,000 .
According to the government , forces across England and Wales have already stepped up patrols to prevent illegal gatherings in areas of concern , such as Leicester and Greater Manchester , where it said deployments have sometimes been larger than on New Year 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police shut down 125 parties and raves - and closed a pub - taking action to stop illegal gatherings and anti-social behaviour across the region .
Further detail on the new enforcement measures is to be set out in the coming week .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said she would not allow progress against the virus to be undermined by `` a small minority of senseless individuals '' .
`` These measures send a clear message - if you do n't cooperate with the police and if you put our health at risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ALHAN 'S WORLD : Health tips to keep you in good shape in these socially distanced times • WAKE UP TO MONEY : Bracing for the Covid recession Are you getting married this weekend ?
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The prime minister said that plans to open up more of the economy this weekend "will allow more people to return to work and the public to get back to more of the things they have missed".


bbcuk--2020-08-14--A-levels: Labour call for government U-turn over 'exams fiasco'

Labour has called on ministers to act immediately to sort out an `` exams fiasco '' in England and stop thousands of A-level students being `` betrayed '' .
It said it was unacceptable that a `` flawed system '' had led to 280,000 pupils having their marks downgraded .
Sir Keir Starmer said ministers must follow the lead of Scotland and allow teacher assessed marks to be accepted .
But ministers say this risks `` grade inflation '' and disadvantaged pupils had not been disproportionately affected .
After exams were cancelled due to the pandemic , grades were awarded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system - with the key factors being the ranking order of pupils and the previous exam results of schools and colleges .
• What 's next in the arguments over exam results ?
This produced more top grades than has ever been seen before in A-levels - almost 28 % getting A* and As - but head teachers have been angry about `` unfathomable '' individual injustices in the downgrading of some results .
In England , 36 % of entries had grades lower than their teachers predicted and 3 % were down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to switch away from this system and to use teachers ' predictions , in the way that the government U-turned in Scotland .
But England 's exam watchdog Ofqual has warned that using teachers ' predictions would have artificially inflated results - and would have seen about 38 % of entries getting A*s and As .
Labour said the lack of consistency in individual results was `` heartbreaking '' for those affected and the government was squarely to blame for sticking with a `` fatally flawed results system '' .
`` Across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injustice has become clear , '' the Labour leader said .
`` Young people and parents right across the country , in every town and city , feel let down and betrayed .
`` The unprecedented and chaotic circumstances created by the UK government 's mishandling of education during recent months mean that a return to teacher assessments is now the best option available , '' said Sir Keir .
`` No young person should be at a detriment due to government incompetence . ''
Labour is also calling for an urgent review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results next week .
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission has also urged the exams regulator Ofqual to consider the equality impacts of all their actions and mitigate against any potential negative affect on disadvantaged and minority groups .
EHRC Chief Executive , Rebecca Hilsenrath , called on the watchdog to publish a full breakdown of the differences between teacher assessed grades and the final grade .
`` Students who have been downgraded must be able to appeal directly if they believe their grades are unfair , '' she said .
Figures from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the rise in top grades - up by five percentage points , compared with two percentage points for comprehensives and 0.3 percentage points for further education colleges .
The chairman of the Education Select Committee , Tory MP Robert Halfon , urged Ofqual to `` explain properly how their model has worked and whether it has been fair '' .
Mr Halfon also said exam appeals `` should be no cost '' to students .
Boris Johnson has defended what he said were a `` robust set '' of grades and said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unfairly would be able to appeal or , if they wanted , sit exams in the autumn .
Schools can appeal for an upgrade if their pupils ' mock grades were higher than their estimated results .
But the exam regulator Ofqual has still to say how a mock exam result can be validated - and head teachers have warned that mocks are not standardised or taken by all pupils , and could not be used as a fair way of deciding final exam results .
Speaking on BBC Breakfast , Transport Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exam system had been tougher on students from poorer backgrounds .
`` More students from disadvantaged backgrounds are going to university and overall we 've got more accepted to university than previously as well , '' said Mr Shapps .

But the exam regulator Ofqual has still to say how a mock exam result can be validated - and head teachers have warned that mocks are not standardised or taken by all pupils, and could not be used as a fair way of deciding final exam results.


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Stonehaven train derailment: Crash survivor walked mile to raise alarm

An off-duty rail worker walked a mile to raise the alarm after surviving the train derailment which killed three people , it has emerged .
Driver Brett McCullough , conductor Donald Dinnie and passenger Christopher Stuchbury died in the incident near Stonehaven on Wednesday .
Two investigations have begun into the derailment , believed to have been caused by a landslip after heavy rain .
Prince Charles is visiting the area to thank the emergency services .
He met some of those who were among the first on the scene of the crash on Friday morning .
Transport Secretary Michael @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that a `` number of actions '' were taken after the derailment to raise the alarm .
• Tributes paid to three killed in train derailment • What we know about the Stonehaven derailment He said : `` There was a call made by someone who believed that an incident had taken place locally and they contacted Police Scotland .
`` There was also an off-duty railway person on the train who , after it derailed , walked around a mile to the next signal box and advised them that an incident had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its national control centre to close the line .
`` During the course of that , Police Scotland obviously dispatched their staff and Network Rail dispatched some of the staff that they had working nearby to respond to the incident . ''
It is thought that the 06:38 Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street service was derailed by a landslide after heavy rain in the area .
The train , which had passed through Stonehaven before 07:00 , had turned back and was heading towards Aberdeen at the time of the crash .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday morning .
Mr Matheson said it would not be appropriate to speculate about what had happened during that intervening period .
`` That is one of the very specific areas that the investigators will look into , '' he said .
He said he wanted answers `` sooner rather than later '' .
The families of three men killed in a train derailment in Aberdeenshire earlier told of their devastation at their deaths .
Six others who were on the train were taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary .
Four have since been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were said to be in a stable condition .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the `` hearts of a nation '' were with those affected .
UK Transport Minister Grant Shapps has asked Network Rail to produce an interim report by 1 September .
He also said he spoke with PC Liam Mercer , the first officer on the scene , and commended him for his bravery .
Network Rail said it would carry out detailed inspections of high-risk trackside slopes with similar characteristics to the site of the Aberdeenshire crash .
Dozens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using in-house engineers , specialist contractors and helicopter surveys .
Scotland 's Lord Advocate has asked Police Scotland , British Transport Police and the Office of Rail and Road , the independent regulator , to conduct a joint investigation into the accident .
This will run in parallel with the independent safety investigation being carried out by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch .

"There was also an off-duty railway person on the train who, after it derailed, walked around a mile to the next signal box and advised them that an incident had occurred, which allowed Network Rail at its national control centre to close the line.


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Coronavirus cases stable across most of England

Coronavirus cases across England appear to be levelling off , despite flare-ups in local hotspots according to estimates from the @ @ @ @ @ ONS ) .
An estimated 1 in 1,900 , or 28,300 people in homes in @ @ @ @ @ .
The ONS said there had been some evidence of a `` small increase '' @ @ @ @ @ .
It has been regularly testing people in private households since April .

Deaths are death registrations where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate. Source: ONS, NRS and NISRA – updated weekly. Although the numbers of deaths per 100,000 people shown in the charts above have not been weighted to account for variations in demography between local authorities, the virus is known to affect disproportionately older people, BAME people, and people from more deprived households or employed in certain occupations.
Cases include positive tests of people in hospital and healthcare workers (Pillar 1) and people tested in the wider population (Pillar 2). Public health bodies may occasionally revise their case numbers. Northern Ireland only publish new figures on weekdays. Average is a median average of rates per area in each UK nation. Source: UK public health bodies - updated daily.


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Lindsay Birbeck: Murderer Rocky Marciano Price jailed

A teenager who killed teaching assistant Lindsay Birbeck and buried her body in a cemetery has been jailed .
Rocky Marciano Price , 17 , was captured on CCTV pulling a wheelie bin with Mrs Birbeck 's body inside it , before she was found dead in a shallow grave .
Price , who previously could not be named , was convicted of her murder on Wednesday .
Mrs Birbeck , 47 , was missing for two weeks before her body was found at Accrington Cemetery , on 24 August 2019 .
At Preston Crown Court the judge , Mrs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with a minimum tariff of 16 years in custody .
`` The attack was swift and brutal .
I am sure the defendant lay in wait with the intention of killing a passing woman , '' said Mrs Justice Yip .
`` Why he decided to kill her only he knows .
If it had not been Lindsay Birbeck , it could have been someone else .
`` This was the entirely random killing of a stranger . ''
Price 's trial had heard how Mrs Birbeck left her home in Accrington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area known as the Coppice .
The defendant , who was 16 at the time , had been prowling in the woods looking for lone females and is thought to have killed her shortly after she entered the Coppice .
His victim was discovered wrapped in two plastic bags in a makeshift grave , 12 days after she went missing .
After police issued the CCTV clip of a young male pulling a blue wheelie bin behind him on Burnley Road , Price 's parents took him to a police station to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hall Road , Accrington , later admitted dragging the bin from the Coppice on August 17 , with Mrs Birbeck inside , across Burnley Road to the cemetery .
• Teaching assistant 'may have known her killer' He had claimed to police that he buried the body for a stranger , who had promised him `` a lot of money '' .
However , a jury unanimously rejected his account that a mystery man had offered him a large cash reward if he disposed of a body .
Jurors returned their verdict exactly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a mother-of-two , was last seen alive .
Mrs Birbeck 's daughter said it was `` unforgivable '' her killer had not admitted his guilt and spared her family the pain of a trial .
`` My mum was a higher level teaching assistant and the irony is she would have taught boys like the defendant and would have tried her best to help him , '' said Sarah , 17 , in a statement read to the court .
`` To know now that he murdered her for absolutely no reason @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet . ''
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"My mum was a higher level teaching assistant and the irony is she would have taught boys like the defendant and would have tried her best to help him," she said, in a statement read to the court.


bbcuk--2020-08-14--'We were all packed, then they cancelled our holiday'

James and his wife , Georgina , both key workers worked long days through lockdown .
By the end of July they were more than ready for their holiday .
`` We were literally all packed , kids had their rucksacks , '' says James .
`` Half the stuff was in the car . ''
They were just about to set out on the four hour drive to Alder Country Park in Norfolk , when the phone rang .
The holiday that they booked before Christmas was no longer available .
`` I was shell-shocked , '' says James @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it not be available ?
We booked it last year . ''
Their eldest daughter is in a wheelchair so they plan well ahead to ensure they find somewhere that can accommodate her needs .
But they were told that a maintenance problem at the lodge they 'd booked meant it was cancelled .
In a normal year Hoseasons , the firm through which it had been booked , says it would have tried to find them an alternative , but with demand for UK holidays sky high this year , everywhere was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the phone and said 'sorry kids , no holiday ' , says James .
The younger ones burst into tears .
They are n't alone .
Dozens of holiday-makers have contacted BBC Radio 4 's You and Yours programme to say their holiday has been cancelled at short notice .
A Facebook page set up by disgruntled Hoseasons customers has more than 500 members .
Rod Leaman booked a four night stay at the Welcome Family Holiday Park in Devon through Hoseasons in February .
Less than a fortnight before he was due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that his booking had been cancelled as the dates he 'd chosen were no longer available .
When Mr Leaman phoned the holiday park itself , he was told that when it reopened in July the owners had decided not to take bookings for less than a week .
`` I would happily have paid for the extra three nights , but that option was n't given to me , '' he says .
The booking was for his daughter Claire so she could get away for a holiday with her partner and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidaymakers were given no explanation at all .
Jill Turner , a teacher from Poole in Dorset , received a text message from Hoseasons , apologising for cancelling the caravan she 'd booked for four nights in mid-August .
It took Jill an hour to get through to the company on the phone , she says .
Even then , she says they did n't offer any reason why they could n't honour her reservation .
After the BBC looked into Jill 's case , Hoseasons admitted the caravan had been double-booked .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole situation , that a company who we thought we could trust ... that they could send an 'oh we are sorry ' , when they were n't '' , says Jill .
`` What was really annoying was that no-one actually seemed to care . ''
Hoseasons is part of the holiday rental company , the Awaze group .
The group also owns Cottages.com , many of whose customers have reported similar last-minute cancellations .
Hoseasons told the BBC that double-bookings had occurred in a small number of cases because of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place as lockdown was eased .
On 31st July , the day James and his family were told their holiday was cancelled , Henrik Kjellberg chief executive of Awaze UK published a letter of apology to customers .
`` Though we expected demand to resurface as UK travel restrictions were lifted , we did n't plan for a tenfold increase , which is what we 've experienced on some of our platforms in recent weeks , '' he wrote .
`` To put it simply - our systems did n't scale to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regrettably caused some duplicate bookings to occur . ''
The firm says as well as the technical glitch there have been a handful of other reasons for cancellations .
Hoseasons does n't own the properties it takes bookings for and says some became unavailable after owners decided to withdraw them , either to use them themselves , or as a result of concerns around Covid-19 .
The firm says late cancellations have affected less than 1 % of bookings in July and August and those affected will be promptly refunded .
But customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook site said it has been hard to get hold of Hoseasons to arrange a refund .
The firm says it will be adding further capacity by hiring more staff for its contact centre .
James and Georgina , who paid the full £1,500 bill for their holiday back in January , have been told they will get some compensation , but they have n't yet received it or their money back .
They are still angry and feel they are owed an explanation .
Countrywide , which owns Alder Country Park , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , caused by a hot tub , was only identified on the day James and Georgina were due to arrive .
Countrywide apologised for the late cancellation .
James says he still feels like he 's in limbo , but in hindsight it is less about the money than the disappointment .
`` It 's been tough for everyone - during what 's happened in lockdown .
It 's been tough for Hoseasons , I get that .
What I do n't get is just dropping it on us with five hours ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known ? ''
You and Yours is broadcast on BBC Radio 4 at 12.15pm

The firm says as well as the technical glitch there have been a handful of other reasons for cancellations. Hoseasons doesn't own the properties it takes bookings for and says some became unavailable after owners decided to withdraw them, either to use them themselves, or as a result of concerns around Covid-19.


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Coronavirus vaccine: UK signs deals for 90 million virus vaccine doses

The UK government has signed deals for a further 90 million doses of coronavirus vaccine .
The vaccines are being developed by the Belgian pharmaceutical company Janssen and the US biotech company Novavax .
It means the UK has placed orders for six experimental vaccines , taking its potential stockpile to 340 million doses .
In theory , there should be enough for everyone in the UK to get five doses .
Most of the vaccines require only two .
With most vaccine trials ending in failure , the government is effectively hedging its bets , hoping that at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proves safe and effective .
The price being paid has not been revealed .
• How will the world vaccinate seven billion people ?
Kate Bingham , chair of the UK government Vaccine Taskforce , told the BBC : `` We do n't know if any of these vaccine formats that we 've acquired will actually work .
There are no licensed vaccines for any human coronavirus . ''
She added it was a `` priority '' to ensure the UK has `` sufficient vaccine '' for groups `` who are most at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Alok Sharma said : `` The government 's strategy to build a portfolio of promising vaccine candidates will ensure we have the best chance possible of finding one that works .
`` Today 's agreements will not only benefit people in the UK but will ensure fair and equitable access of a vaccine around the world , potentially protecting hundreds of millions of lives . ''
The government has now purchased experimental coronavirus vaccines that have been developed using four different scientific approaches : It takes Britain 's potential stockpile to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the biggest in the world .
The Oxford and BioNTech/Pfizer vaccines are in advanced , phase three clinical trials , with tens of thousands of volunteers recruited .
It is possible that some indication on how effective they are could come in late autumn , but that is not guaranteed .
The government says if the Janssen and Novavax vaccine trials go well , the first deliveries could take place in mid-2021 .
The UK has also agreed to co-fund a clinical study of the Janssen vaccine .
By the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least half a dozen different coronavirus vaccines in clinical trials in the UK - and members of the public are being encouraged to register their interest online , because without medical volunteers we will not know if any of the vaccines actually works .
• LOCKDOWN BABIES : How have pregnancies and births changed ?

By the end of the year, there could be at least half a dozen different coronavirus vaccines in clinical trials in the UK - and members of the public are being encouraged to register their interest online, because without medical volunteers we will not know if any of the vaccines actually works.


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Coronavirus in Wales: Plans to relax indoor meeting rules postponed

Lockdown rules on meeting people indoors in Wales will not be relaxed this weekend , as previously suggested .
However , up to four households - up from two - will be able to form an extended household from 22 August , as long as conditions `` remain stable '' .
First Minister Mark Drakeford said it was important not to jeopardise progress .
He also said all hospitality businesses would have to collect customers ' contact details to help tracing .
Further enforcement measures are also being introduced to make sure businesses follow Covid-19 safety rules .
• What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• How many people have died with covid in Wales ?
A fortnight ago Mark Drakeford said he `` would like to be able to offer more opportunities for people to meet indoors '' from 15 August .
However he added this was `` the most risky thing you can do '' and now says he has now decided not to make any changes this weekend .
Mr Drakeford was asked on BBC Radio Wales Breakfast why people can visit pubs , soft play areas and gyms indoors but not see more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
`` When people go to a pub or to a soft play area they are in a public place where there are clear rules laid down as to how people should behave in those settings , and there are people there to make sure that those rules are observed , and people are only in those settings for a relatively limited period of time , '' he said .
`` Unfortunately what we have learnt is that when people meet inside their own homes , even people who are scrupulous about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , people tend to lapse into the way we all behave inside our own houses .
`` Seventy per cent of all new infections in England are traced to household infections , people behaving inside their houses in ways that puts themselves and others at risk . ''
People in Wales can only meet up indoors if they are part of an extended household .
Currently an extended household can only be made up of two households , but from next weekend the cap will increase to four .
It will not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an existing extended household to form a new one , under the rules .
Mr Drakeford said people now had a week to discuss what they should do .
Issues to consider included `` how vulnerable people may be , who might need help the most , grandparents helping with children and childcare around the school day '' , he said .
`` That 's why we decided we would n't introduce these changes until Saturday the 22nd of August , because it gives families the opportunity to have those conversations , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because once you 've decided which households are to form your extended household , then that 's how it has to be , you ca n't pick and choose and chop and change . ''
Also from next weekend a meal following a wedding , civil partnership or funeral will be allowed for up to 30 people indoors if social distancing can be maintained .
The first minister has also announced that new powers will be introduced on Monday requiring all hospitality businesses to collect customers ' contact details .
This will mean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our test , trace , protect teams if they may have been exposed to coronavirus , '' Mr Drakeford said .
Local authorities are already able to issue improvement or closure notices to businesses who are not complying with Covid-19 safety rules .
Now the Welsh Government says any business issued with such a notice will have to display a sign .
`` This pandemic is far from over and we all still have a duty to do our part to keep Wales safe , '' the first minister said .
Since lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first time Mark Drakeford has decided not to relax a restriction according to the timetable he had provisionally set out .
He always warns that any changes are conditional on the spread of the virus at the time , but his tone was particularly cautious when he talked a couple of weeks ago about potentially allowing more people to meet inside from the 15th of August .
Mr Drakeford claimed that was the `` most risky thing you can do '' and he would study the evidence carefully .
He has now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowing a limited relaxation of the restrictions - a decision , it is said , guided by what has happened in other parts of the UK where local outbreaks have occurred .
He says those spikes have been caused by people transmitting the virus indoors , and poor compliance by some businesses .
That is why ministers here are also toughening their approach towards companies found to be flouting the rules .


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Sheffield shooting: Victim, 12, 'recognised gunman'

A 12-year-old boy knew the man accused of shooting him outside a sandwich shop , prosecutors have said .
The victim was shot in the thigh in a drive-by shooting on Northern Avenue in Sheffield on 12 January .
Sheffield Crown Court heard the boy told police he saw a car drive up and `` they started shooting everywhere '' then heard the gunman shout `` we got one '' .
Stephen Dunford and Devon Gregory , both from the city , deny attempted murder and other firearm offences .
• More news and stories from Yorkshire Prosecutor , Stephen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been standing with a group of friends outside the shop on Northern Avenue .
A white Ford Focus approached at 15:30 GMT and shots were fired , but the boy may not have been the intended victim , Mr Wood said .
`` The prosecution say it was the intention to kill , it may be they hit the wrong person , that does not matter .
If they intended to kill but ended up shooting [ a ] boy the prosecution submit they are guilty of attempted murder . ''
Mr Wood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dunford and four of his friends were in the car , all were wearing hoods or balaclavas .
Mr Wood said even though the suspect was wearing a hood , the boy could see Mr Dunford 's eyes and eyebrows and recognised his voice .
`` He heard the gunman shout , 'we got one ' , '' Mr Wood said .
The victim 's father knew Mr Dunford and the boy said he had seen him the night before .
A second gunman , who the victim did not recognise , was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosecution said that person was Mr Gregory .
A gun was later found at the flat of a drug addict , who was known to Mr Gregory , and she told police he must have left it there , the court heart .
Mr Gregory , 23 , of Heeley Green , Sheffield , and Mr Dunford , 25 , of Fellbrigg Road , both deny attempted murder and possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life .
Mr Dunford also denies a charge of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sheffield on 10 January .
A third man , Brandon Bailey , 26 , of Manor Park Way , Sheffield , denies a charge of possessing criminal property .
All three deny a charge of conspiracy .
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"The prosecution say it was the intention to kill, it may be they hit the wrong person, that does not matter. If they intended to kill but ended up shooting [a] boy the prosecution submit they are guilty of attempted murder."


bbcuk--2020-08-14--Coronavirus: Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall visitors 'ridiculous'

People in a rural village will meet to discuss how to deal with thousands of tourists visiting a nearby waterfall .
A public meeting will be held in Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant , Powys , on Friday to resolve the `` traffic chaos '' caused by Pistyll Rhaeadr visitors .
Phil Facey , the waterfall 's custodian and cafe owner , said lockdown easing meant visitor numbers had increased from about 1,000 to 3,000 a day .
He said the `` area ca n't cope '' with the `` ridiculous '' situation .
• Coronavirus : What will university be like for freshers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people parking in passing places and leaving rubbish behind .
Mr Facey said : `` The waterfall has always carried a great sacredness for those who know her ...
It 's a jewel in the crown of Wales that needs to be looked after . ''
He said many visitors were coming from cities and `` taking lib '' by bringing barbeques or picnics , leaving rubbish and `` putting nothing back into the infrastructure '' of Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant .
He wants to see visitor numbers limited and a system put in place where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The meeting will be held in the garden of the Wynnstay Arms Hotel at 16:00 BST .

Mr Facey said: "The waterfall has always carried a great sacredness for those who know her... It's a jewel in the crown of Wales that needs to be looked after."