bbcuk--2020-06-05--Tim Davie: BBC executive named director general

Tim Davie , one of the BBC 's most senior executives , has been named the broadcaster 's new director general .
Davie has been promoted from chief executive of BBC Studios , the commercial subsidiary that sells BBC and other British programmes abroad .
He became acting director general after the resignation of George Entwistle in 2012 , and will now replace Tony Hall .
His top priorities will include negotiating with the government about the future of the licence fee .
The TV licence system will stay in place until at least 2027 , but the government is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2022 onwards .
In a statement , Davie said he was `` honoured '' to get the BBC 's top job .
'We need to accelerate change' '' This has been a critical time for the UK and these past few months have shown just how much the BBC matters to people , '' he said .
`` Our mission has never been more relevant , important or necessary .
I have a deep commitment to content of the highest quality and impartiality .
`` Looking forward , we will need to accelerate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ audiences in this fast-moving world .
`` Much great work has been done , but we will continue to reform , make clear choices and stay relevant .
I am very confident we can do this because of the amazing teams of people that work at the BBC . ''
Lord Hall described Davie as `` a fantastic leader '' , adding : `` I wish him every success for the future .
I know that the BBC is in safe hands . ''
Davie will be paid £525,000 a year - £75,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than he was getting as head of BBC Studios .
The BBC said the director general 's salary had not increased since 2012 , and this is the level that it would have reached had inflation been applied .
It added Davie has `` agreed to take a salary stand-still '' and be paid £450,000 until August 2021 , as `` all senior managers at the BBC are currently on a salary freeze '' .
One of Davie 's other pressing tasks will be to help work out how to make the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC needs to find this year .
BBC chairman Sir David Clementi said `` the organisation faces significant challenges as well as opportunities '' .
He added : `` I am confident that Tim is the right person to lead the BBC as it continues to reform and change . ''
At BBC Studios , Davie has overseen the production of programmes like Blue Planet II , Doctor Who , Strictly Come Dancing and EastEnders for the BBC , as well as the sale of shows to more than 200 countries .
Its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the BBC in 2018/19 .
That commercial experience is likely to be called upon when he starts his new post in September .
For example , Lord Hall recently raised the idea of turning BBC Four into a global subscription channel .
The question of whether to bring back BBC Three as a regular TV channel is also up in the air .
Tim Davie has landed one of the most privileged jobs in Britain and global media , leading thousands of creative people at a remarkable moment in history .
Aside from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenges are enormous - and those are just the ones we already know about .
Tony Hall had the toughest job of any director general in BBC history .
Davie will have an even tougher time .
Those challenges include , in no particular order : • A political negotiation over the future licence fee with a government that recently made several threats to the corporation • A re-evaluation of the commercial model of the BBC , so that it can compete in a hyper-inflationary modern media landscape • The irreversible flight of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outstanding programming , trust among a global audience , and standards of impartiality at a time when social media makes that infinitely harder And that 's just the inbox .
Most DGs ' legacies are defined by how they handle unforeseen crises , like famous presenters making prank calls , or the revelation that many women are being paid less than men for doing the same work , which is illegal .
It is , obviously , an extraordinary opportunity , which has the considerable consolation that whatever comes after will be easier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The BBC has many critics , but most people will wish Davie luck .
He will need it .
Davie is one of the corporation 's longest-serving executives , joining from Pepsi to become director of the BBC 's Marketing , Communications & Audiences division in 2005 .
He then took over responsibility for radio stations including Radios 1 , 2 , 3 and 4 as director of the Audio & Music division in 2008 .
Soon afterwards , he had to address the outcry caused by prank calls made by Russell Brand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The decision to shut 6 Music under his tenure , which was later reversed , also brought scrutiny .
A month after being named chief executive of the corporation 's commercial arm BBC Worldwide in 2012 , he stepped in to become acting director general after Entwistle 's short-lived tenure .
Entwistle had resigned after just eight weeks at the helm following a Newsnight error in a child abuse report .
Davie returned to BBC Worldwide after Lord Hall 's appointment as Entwistle 's permanent successor , and Davie oversaw the merger of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arm to form BBC Studios in 2018 .
Last year , Davie turned down an offer to become head of the Premier League .
He was also chair of Comic Relief , a role he has just relinquished .
He is now to become the 17th director general in the corporation 's 98-year history .
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If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news @ bbc.co.uk .

The BBC said the director general's salary had not increased since 2012, and this is the level that it would have reached had inflation been applied. It added Davie has "agreed to take a salary stand-still" and be paid £450,000 until August 2021, as "all senior managers at the BBC are currently on a salary freeze".


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Job losses 'just the tip of the iceberg'

The boss of the UK 's largest recruitment firm , Reed , has said he fears current trends suggest far more people are going to lose their jobs because of the coronavirus crisis .
James Reed predicted the unemployment rate could reach 15 % , meaning five million people could be out of work .
He said recent job cuts by firms were `` perhaps just the tip of the iceberg '' .
Reed has seen job advertisements drop by two-thirds , while applications per job are rising .
This week Bentley , Aston Martin , car dealership Lookers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cuts .
• More gloom for car industry as 2,000 jobs axed • More than a quarter of UK workers now furloughed Speaking to the BBC 's Today programme , Mr Reed said more losses could be on the way since small businesses do not have to give advance notice of lay offs , as big companies do .
`` My concern is that the data that we 're seeing , which is that the number of jobs advertised is down two-thirds and has been consistently for two months now , suggests that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ losses to come , '' he said .
He predicts unemployment will rise sharply in the autumn , when the government 's furlough scheme comes to an end .
Mr Read said some people had predicted unemployment could reach levels not seen since the 1980s , when the jobless rate reached 11.9 % .
`` I fear it could be a lot worse than that , it might be more like the 1930s , '' he said .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW How to understand the death toll • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
Currently , 8.7 million UK workers are receiving payments on the Job Retention Scheme .
The government has confirmed the scheme will run to the end of October , but by then employers will be paying a fifth of workers ' salaries .
`` It 's very difficult for those businesses to re-employ all the people they 've got furloughed , '' Mr Reed said .
`` So I 'm dreading this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're not going to do that and a lot more people will become unemployed . ''
Mr Reed said some industries were seeing a rise in recruitment , particularly in health and logistics , but huge sectors of the economy , such as leisure and tourism , remained completely shut down .
He added it was important for the economy to get going again in the next two or three months , or it would be hard for some firms to recover , and he called for clarity soon on how businesses can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown , claims for universal credit , the benefit for working-age people , hit a record monthly level of 1.5 million claims .

"My concern is that the data that we're seeing, which is that the number of jobs advertised is down two-thirds and has been consistently for two months now, suggests that there could be a lot more job losses to come," he said.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Keith Lemon actor sorry for playing 'offensive' black characters

Keith Lemon actor Leigh Francis has apologised for playing black people in his 2000s Channel 4 show , Bo ' Selecta .
Using masks , the white actor created exaggerated versions of Michael Jackson , Craig David and Mel B. Leigh says that when the show started , in 2002 he `` did n't think anything about it . ''
In the show , white stars like Kelly Osbourne , Elton John and Lorraine Kelly were also portrayed in a similar way .
Leigh 's apology was prompted , he says , by `` a weird few days . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Matter protests have been taking place across the world .
These have been in response to the killing of unarmed black man , George Floyd , in Minneapolis . '
I just want to apologise' '' I 've sat and thought about things and what I could post to try and help things , '' Leigh says in a video posted to Instagram .
`` People did n't say anything .
I 'm not going to blame other people , '' he says .
`` I 've been talking to some people and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was back then and I just want to apologise . ''
He says he is a `` big fan '' of all the people he was playing in his show .
`` I guess we 're all on a learning journey . ''
Some people , including ex-premiership footballer John Barnes , have said that characters on Bo ' Selecta were n't problematic .
There have also been some calls on social media for white actors David Walliams and Matt Lucas to apologise for the black and non-white characters they portrayed in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Matt Lucas said last year that if Little Britain were to return , he and Walliams would not play black characters .
`` I would n't make that show now , '' he told The Big Issue in 2019 .
`` We made a more cruel kind of comedy than I 'd do now .
Society has moved on a lot since then , and my own views have evolved . ''
Earlier in 2020 , there were more than 180 complaints following The Big Night In , which included a Little Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here .

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bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: NHS contact-tracing app in place by end of month, says minister

A new NHS coronavirus contact-tracing app should be in place by the end of the month , a minister has said .
Business minister Nadhim Zahawi said the app - which was trialled in the Isle of Wight - will `` be running as soon as we think it is robust '' .
Last week new test and trace systems were launched in England and Scotland - but without the app due to delays .
The Guardian reported an NHS boss said the wider scheme would be imperfect at first but `` world-class '' by the autumn .
The paper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test and trace scheme said the scheme should be fully working by September or October .
• How does contact tracing work in England ?
The NHS app - which will automatically alert people - began being trialled on the Isle of Wight in early May .
The government said then it hoped it would be launched nationwide by the middle of May .
Meanwhile , doctors have urged the government to make face coverings compulsory in all places where social distancing is not possible , not just on public transport .
All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wear a covering from 15 June , the government said on Thursday .
The NHS app was originally planned to be part of last week 's launch of England 's test and trace scheme - but the app roll-out was delayed because more trials were needed .
Scotland also launched its tracing scheme last week while Northern Ireland already had a contact tracing programme up and running .
Wales began its scheme on Monday .
Speaking on the BBC 's Question Time on Thursday , Mr Zahawi said : `` The app , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to make sure it actually does everything it needs to do and will be in place this month .
`` I ca n't give you an exact date , it would be wrong for me to do so . ''
Asked to confirm it would be rolled out nationwide this month , he said : `` I 'd like to think we 'd be able to manage by this month , yes . ''
He said the pilot in the Isle of Wight showed people actually preferred to be contacted by a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 've recruited 25,000 people who are track-and-tracers who can deal with about 10,000 cases a day '' .
Contact tracers text , email or call people who test positive with coronavirus and ask who they have had contact with .
Any of those contacts who could be at risk of infection are told to isolate for 14 days , even if they are not sick .
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• RECOVERY : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better ?
The 25,000 tracers working for England 's NHS test and trace team have already started contacting people .
But some contact tracers have said they have been given very little work so far , with one telling the BBC she had worked 38 hours but had yet to make a single phone call and spent the time watching Netflix .
Contact tracing for coronavirus began when the UK identified its first two cases at the end of January .
But it was stopped in mid-March after England 's chief medical officer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` no longer necessary for us to identify every case '' .
Then in May , Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged to have a `` world-beating '' tracing system in place from June .
NHS bosses have said such a system is important to avoid a possible second surge in coronavirus cases .
However , the head of the NHS Confederation said a test , track and trace strategy should have been in place sooner .
A Department of Health spokesperson said the new test and trace service was up and running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 25,000 contact tracers were now in place .
• The number of people infected with coronavirus in homes in England has fallen to 5,600 a day , from 8,000 daily infections last week , according to estimated figures from the Office for National Statistics • An exercise simulating a coronavirus outbreak in Scotland , which was shared with a UK government advisory group , revealed concerns over protective gear and contract tracing • The British Dental Association ( BDA ) warned there will be no return to `` business as usual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some practices prepare to reopen on Monday • Campaigners have threatened to bring legal action against the government for not providing free school meal vouchers during the summer • AstraZeneca said it will be able to supply two billion doses of a potential virus vaccine following two new deals • The human rights watchdog will investigate racial inequalities `` laid bare '' by the pandemic • I MAY DESTROY YOU : The next must-see show in lockdown • WHO IS WATCHING YOU WORK ?
: The future of working from home How have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to coronavirus ?
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Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
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Contact tracers text, email or call people who test positive with coronavirus and ask who they have had contact with. Any of those contacts who could be at risk of infection are told to isolate for 14 days, even if they are not sick.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--The Sweet bassist Steve Priest dies aged 72

Steve Priest , the bassist and co-founder of glam rock band Sweet , has died at the age of 72 .
He was known for his playful humour and outrageous costumes when Sweet played hits like Blockbuster and Little Willy on Top of the Pops in the 1970s .
Priest also sang the memorable lines `` there 's a girl in the corner that no-one ignores , 'cos she thinks she 's the passionate one , '' in Ballroom Blitz .
His death was confirmed by the band , who shared a statement from his family .
Bandmate Andy Scott @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best bass player he had ever played with .
`` From that moment in the summer of 1970 when we set off on our musical odyssey the world opened up and the roller coaster ride started . ''
`` I am in pieces right now , '' added the guitarist , who is now the sole surviving member of Sweet 's classic line-up .
`` His wife Maureen and I have kept in contact and though his health was failing I never envisaged this moment .
Never .
My thoughts are with his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hayes , West London , in 1948 , and became a musician after building his own bass guitar in his teens .
After playing in bands like The Countdowns and The Army , he formed The Sweet ( then known as Sweetshop ) in January 1968 with vocalist Brian Connolly , drummer Mick Tucker and guitarist Frank Torpey .
Following a few line-up changes and a false start on Parlophone Records , the band signed to RCA in 1971 and teamed up with songwriters Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman , whose bubblegum melodies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charts .
In total , they scored 13 Top 20 hits in the 1970s , with songs like Teenage Rampage , Hell Raiser , Wig-Wam Bam and the number one single Blockbuster .
As the band became a regular fixture on Top of the Pops , Priest became the epitome of glam rock androgyny , known for his flamboyant outfits and heavy make-up .
`` The make-up thing , I ca n't remember what started that , '' he told the Phoenix New Times in 2018 .
`` Marc Bolan , maybe ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ show in some ways but it was like , um , you had to outdo everyone else . ''
`` I was the first one to wear hot pants on Top of the Pops , '' he added .
`` A year later , Bowie did it and everyone went , 'Wow , David Bowie wore hot pants on Top of the Pops , ' and totally forgot the fact that I did it the year before . ''
But the bassist landed himself in hot water when he appeared in German military @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 1973 Christmas edition of Top of the Pops ( the song they were playing , Blockbuster , was named after an Allied bomb ) .
`` It 's amazing how everyone still talks about the Nazi uniform , '' he said in 2010 .
`` Good old BBC wardrobe department .
People always want to know if I was serious .
I mean , a gay Hitler .
Hello ?
! ''
Sweet parted ways with Chinn and Chapman in 1974 , determined to write their own material .
Influenced by The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and yielded hits like Fox On The Run and Action .
After Connolly departed the group in 1978 , Priest took over lead vocal duties and Sweet continued as a trio until 1981 .
In recent years , there had been two competing versions of Sweet : Priest had the right to use the band 's name in the US , where he lived , while guitarist Andy Scott toured the UK with an alternate line-up .
Their biggest songs continued to get radio play - while Ballroom Blitz , a song @ @ @ @ @ @ @ band were bottled offstage , gaining a new lease of life in the 1990s after featuring in the movie Wayne 's World .
Tributes to Priest have poured in since his death was announced , with many sharing their memories on social media .
`` When Sweet were on [ TV ] you sat there in awe thinking , 'sod the school careers adviser that 's the job for me , ' '' wrote The Damned 's guitarist Captain Sensible .
`` And they wound your parents up something rotten too , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
David Ellefson of Megadeth said that Priest was `` without parallel '' .
He added that Sweet `` gave me one of my earliest memories of great hard rock on the radio as a kid and [ 1974 's ] Desolation Boulevard still holds up as one of rock 's greatest albums from that period . ''
`` RIP Steve Priest , '' wrote Nancy Wilson of the US rock band Heart .
`` A brave glam rocker and man . ''
`` As you might imagine , I am definitely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Snider , lead singer of Twisted Sister .
`` Sad that so many of the original band are now gone . ''
Priest is survived by his wife , Maureen , whom he married in 1981 and their three daughters .
No cause of death was given .
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bbcuk--2020-06-05--Scotland-Northern Ireland bridge: No feasibility study commissioned

No feasibility study has yet been commissioned on the idea of a bridge linking Scotland and Northern Ireland .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has previously described the bridge as a `` very interesting idea '' and said in December `` watch this space '' .
But the Cabinet Office has told the BBC no detailed feasibility work has yet begun and no money has been spent .
A spokesman said UK government officials were looking only `` in general terms '' at improving connectivity .
• 'Work under way ' on Scotland-NI bridge feasibility The statement , in response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggests little headway has been made on the project , despite the prime minister 's interest .
Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has previously said the bridge idea was `` worth examining '' , while Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said there were `` more important priorities '' for spending .
Two routes have been suggested - from Portpatrick in south west Scotland to Larne , or from a site further north , near Campbeltown in Argyll , to the Antrim coast .
The Argyll route would be shorter but would lack onward transport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to span 20 miles of the Irish Sea .
Concerns have also been raised of dangers from wartime munitions dumped in the Beaufort Dyke , a deep trench in the seabed near the latter route .
In February the UK government said work was being undertaken by government officials on the bridge idea , which some estimate could cost between £15bn and £20bn .
But a spokesperson for the Cabinet Office has now told the BBC `` no external work has been commissioned by departments on a bridge between Northern Ireland and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` A range of officials across different departments and within the Cabinet Office are looking into general options to improve connectivity between the nations of the UK .
`` This work is at a very early stage in the policymaking process and there are no completed studies on the feasibility of a road and/or rail bridge between Northern Ireland and the GB mainland .
`` No money has been spent on specific proposals of a bridge between Northern Ireland and Great Britain , beyond the salaries of policy officials . ''
In March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a tunnel might also be considered as a cheaper way of improving connectivity between Scotland and Northern Ireland .

"This work is at a very early stage in the policymaking process and there are no completed studies on the feasibility of a road and/or rail bridge between Northern Ireland and the GB mainland.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Court action threatened over school meal vouchers

Campaigners have threatened to bring legal action against the government for not providing free school meal vouchers during the summer .
Normally children only get free meals from school during term-time .
But eligible pupils received food vouchers over Easter as the country coped with the Covid crisis .
The Department for Education said the scheme will not continue in the summer holidays but campaigners say children in vulnerable families will go hungry .
They have written to the Department of Education threatening to bring a judicial review of the decision .
The letter was sent by the food charity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led by the campaigning lawyer Jolyon Maugham .
• Emergency food ' for families with nothing to eat' Kath Dalmeny of Sustain said : `` I have spent hours and hours and hours of my time on Zoom meetings , on phone calls trying to get this issue noticed by all other means .
That has not worked and so we must make people take this seriously . ''
But no legal challenge has yet begun , they do not yet have a court date or the funds to complete a case , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The voucher scheme has cost more than £129m in England already and is worth £15 per week for each eligible child .
One woman , Daisy , who has two children , said the amount and standard of food they ate would have to be cut without the vouchers .
`` Having that fifteen pounds a week is a big deal , '' she told the Today Programme on BBC Radio 4 .
Mother-of-four Aimee Smith said she relied on the money .
When funds have run short in the past , she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give them plain pasta , if we have n't had anything else . ''
She said she often went without meals or had a piece of toast to make sure there was enough left for her children .
`` That 's what we will call a dinner for the night , '' she said .
`` Not being able to eat , it 's not a nice thought , is it ? ''
In a statement , a Department for Education spokesperson said as schools opened more widely the government expected them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are eligible for free school meals but not yet back in the classroom .
`` Where this is not possible , schools can continue to offer vouchers to eligible pupils , '' the spokesperson said .
`` The national voucher scheme will not run during the summer holidays . ''
In Wales , families have been promised free school meals will be provided until schools re-open or until the end of August .

She said she often went without meals or had a piece of toast to make sure there was enough left for her children. "That's what we will call a dinner for the night," she said. "Not being able to eat, it's not a nice thought, is it?"


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus doctor's diary: The older doctors risking their lives to battle Covid-19

There has been a surge of interest in becoming a medic during this pandemic , despite the fact that those on the front line run a high risk of catching the virus .
Dr John Wright of Bradford Royal Infirmary writes about two colleagues who decided to become doctors later in life and were hit hard when they came down with Covid-19 .
This has been a time when the quiet men and women staffing the NHS and care homes have stepped out of the shadows and into the spotlight .
They have served their country and cared for their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the process .
One million people answered the call to volunteer to help the NHS in this time of crisis .
Thousands have expressed interest in becoming a nurse and many young people have contacted the Bradford Royal Infirmary to ask when our careers outreach sessions will resume .
Becoming a doctor or a nurse or a health care worker has never seemed so important , and it does n't matter how old you are or what you have been doing - it 's rarely too late to follow your heart .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prof Alex Brown and orthopaedic registrar Ken Linton came to medicine after careers in the military and banking - Alex served as an army captain in Northern Ireland and the Falklands , while Ken was a vice-president of Lehman Brothers investment bank until a few months before it collapsed in 2008 .
At 61 and 54 they were at higher risk than many of developing serious symptoms if they caught Covid-19 , and sure enough they eventually become patients in their own hospital .
For anyone who thinks that Covid is simply a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an illustration of how it can bring a tough , stoical , ex-army man to his knees .
Alex was aware of the risk he was taking , being older and male ( and a bit overweight ) , but it did n't stop him .
`` You 've just got to get on and do what you 've got to do , '' he says .
He also knew that there was no rapid test that would enable us to instantly determine which patients had Covid-19 and which did not .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` red '' infectious zone , and a `` green '' zone for non-Covid patients we were never going to get it 100 % right .
( I wrote 10 days ago about Mark Winterbourne who tested positive after being admitted with what initially appeared to be gallstone problems . )
And as Alex points out , `` The level of PPE that we wear is dependent upon what stocks are available . ''
Alex had only missed one day 's work in his life , until he caught the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven days in quarantine in his bedroom , but at this point instead of getting better , he got worse .
During a walk in the garden he started shaking and sweating , and his temperature rose to 40C .
Four days later his son , who had already recovered from Covid-19 , drove him to A & E .
Supplied with new medication Alex went home again , to be looked after by his wife , a GP .
`` It was really hard , I have n't known anything like it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the toughest situations imaginable but nothing like this .
You feel so vulnerable .
I had terrible fevers and chills - for nights this went on , and my temperature was so high . ''
This hardened ex-soldier welled up as he told me this .
`` I just could n't really move - no energy and feeling so terrible .
Even now , three weeks on , I ca n't really climb a flight of stairs without my pulse rate going up , and I want to work .
I feel so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knowing I ca n't be there helping my colleagues . ''
Prof John Wright , a doctor and epidemiologist , is head of the Bradford Institute for Health Research , and a veteran of cholera , HIV and Ebola epidemics in sub-Saharan Africa .
He is writing this diary for BBC News and recording from the hospital wards for BBC Radio .
• Listen to the next episode of The NHS Front Line on BBC Sounds or the BBC World Service • Or read the previous online diary entry : Why does Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Ken Linton did a PhD in engineering and computer science before going into banking , when he was headhunted by Lehman Brothers and transferred to Wall Street .
He was making a fortune and had bought a 37ft boat and a small plane by the time things started to go wrong for the bank in early 2008 , and his department was closed .
A few months later the bank collapsed altogether and the economic crash began , but Ken came out of it largely unscathed .
The New York Times described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life of leisure '' and playing jazz trombone , though around this time he was also volunteering in New York hospitals .
He contemplated becoming a chef , but instead - already in his mid-40s - he decided on medicine .
As a lifelong asthmatic , Ken was worried when Covid-19 arrived in the UK this spring .
Lots of his colleagues at Bradford Royal Infirmary were getting it , and he too eventually developed the symptoms on 8 May .
`` I went to bed and I was too hot - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hot .
And then I woke up and was absolutely freezing .
And then I started being sick , '' he says .
`` I called up A & E and packed a bag for everything you need at hospital - a lot of people forget the essentials .
The consultant took my vital signs and I was very short of breath .
I had low potassium , and my oxygen saturation was terrible .
So they got me up to the ward very quickly . ''
Soon he was on `` about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's a horrendous disease because every day after that I had a new weird symptom .
I had covid toes .
My kidneys shut down on the Wednesday morning .
I got a dermatological condition - the arteries that supply the skin get blocked .
There 's a new surprise every day .
The day before I went home I got this viral rash on my wrist . ''
He was in hospital for 10 days .
He 's now been at home for a week , but like Alex Brown , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stairs with difficulty .
And he too is desperate to get back to work - in his case , orthopaedic surgery .
It would be natural for stories like this to make some people think twice about coming to work in a hospital , but the evidence suggests the opposite is happening .
Alex , who is in charge of our trainee doctors and often runs weekend workshops for local comprehensive schools , thinks that the huge amount of exposure the NHS has received - not to mention the clapping for carers - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minds '' to the idea of medicine and nursing as a career .
Ken , the former Lehman Brothers banker , points out that `` you ca n't take money with you when you die '' but that as a doctor `` you can make your mark - make a difference '' .
He has the evidence for it in letters from patients thanking him , and other hospital staff , for taking care of them when they needed it most .
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT : Is it safe to travel ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one ?
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?

Two of my colleagues, consultant geriatrician Prof Alex Brown and orthopaedic registrar Ken Linton came to medicine after careers in the military and banking - Alex served as an army captain in Northern Ireland and the Falklands, while Ken was a vice-president of Lehman Brothers investment bank until a few months before it collapsed in 2008. At 61 and 54 they were at higher risk than many of developing serious symptoms if they caught Covid-19, and sure enough they eventually become patients in their own hospital.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Families missed funerals 'as webcast failed'

Grieving families have missed the funerals of their loved ones in South Yorkshire because video streaming technology failed to work .
Current restrictions mean just 10 people are allowed at a funeral in Sheffield , with those unable to attend advised to watch free online .
Councillor Gail Smith said two residents had contacted her but many others had mentioned the issue online .
Wesley Media , the company that provides the service , has been asked to comment .
The live webcasting service is offered by Hutcliffe Wood and City Road chapels , which are managed by the council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ norm , says Dignity Mrs Smith , representative for Mosborough ward , said she had contacted Sheffield City Council but they were unaware of the issue .
`` People need to be aware , '' she told the Local Democracy Reporting Service .
`` The council said it 's not their problem , it 's the company providing the service but it is the council 's problem - I can not imagine what it feels like to not be able to go to a loved ones ' funeral and then not be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It 's no good the council saying it 's this company 's fault . ''
What does Public Health England say about funerals ?
• Funeral directors and faith leaders are advised to restrict the number of mourners at funerals • Only members of the household or close family members should attend • Anyone with coronavirus symptoms can not attend • A small number of friends can go if no family or household members can attend • Mourners can not take part in any rituals bringing them into close contact with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for culture , parks and leisure at Sheffield Council , said : `` It is extremely concerning to hear of families experiencing upset regarding the webcam service , however we have not been made aware of any issues with the live streaming of these services by members of the public or funeral directors since it was introduced three weeks ago .
`` As with any web based service , technical issues out of our control can arise , but if we are alerted to a problem at the start of a funeral we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try and resolve any issues . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW How to understand the death toll • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?
Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .
Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news @ bbc.co.uk .

"The council said it's not their problem, it's the company providing the service but it is the council's problem - I cannot imagine what it feels like to not be able to go to a loved ones' funeral and then not be able to log on and see it.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: How the Lang Whang Wombles became lockdown litter pickers

When Paul Osborn moved to a cottage on a historic Scottish road just before the lockdown , he could not believe the amount of litter he found on the route .
Rubbish had built up over decades along the grassy verges and laybys of the A70 from Edinburgh to Ayr , which is known locally as the Lang Whang .
So the 52-year-old started arming himself with a litter picker when he left his home in Kirknewton , West Lothian , for his daily exercise .
He said : `` Often when you have an outsider 's view you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me immediately how much litter there was blighting this beautiful part of the countryside .
`` Under the lockdown I could litter pick in a socially distancing way without breaking any rules . ''
The management consultant - who had lived in Seattle for 20 years - was soon joined in the clean-up by his wife Teresa .
Local support then started to grow , so they named themselves the Lang Whang Wombles and started up a Facebook page to seek more help .
`` The idea is to create a self-sustaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , where people opt in and take ownership of the litter , '' he said .
Part of the route has been divided up into 300m zones where local residents can clear their own area .
Paul , an Agile coach , has made signs along the route in a bid to encourage others to get involved .
He said : `` Litter picking can get really addictive .
There is enormous soul satisfaction in litter picking as you turn a horrible mess into something nice again .
`` The idea of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of responsibility to keep their own area clear .
They take ownership of their local bit of road .
`` I 'm creating a chain of ownership from shore to shore , from east coast to west coast . ''
The history of the Lang Whang The A70 is known locally as the Lang Whang , which is Scots for a long leather bootlace .
The tales from the road 's history are said to involve national bard Robert Burns , body snatchers Burke and Hare , and UFO sightings .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wee Bush Inn in Carnwath after a day of walking along the route .
He apparently summed up his exhaustion by daubing the words `` Lang Whang , Lang Whang , Lang bloody Whang '' on the inn 's window .
Burke and Hare - who carried out a series of murders in the early 19th Century , then sold the bodies for anatomical research - used the road to transport bodies to Edinburgh Medical College .
In 1992 , two Scottish men said they had been abducted by a UFO while driving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So far 52 people have joined the Wombles group , with about 20 active members .
They have collected 270 bags of rubbish and more than 30 tyres , and have alerted the local council to nine fly-tipping locations .
Paul , who is originally from the Midlands , said : `` We could assemble two cars with all the parts we have found from the wreckage left from car accidents .
`` We have found a lot of litter buried under the grass and a lot of rubbish has built up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of Strongbow cans dating between five and 15 years at the weekend . ''
The volunteers had been storing the rubbish in their gardens until council recycling facilities reopened on Monday .
They have also built a Womble artwork at the side of the road from litter and painted hub caps .
Paul said they were looking for more people to join them along the route .
He said : `` We do n't ask or create expectation .
They can do as much or as little as they like .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ exposed is your job ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?

He said: "Often when you have an outsider's view you have a different perspective and it was obvious to me immediately how much litter there was blighting this beautiful part of the countryside.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Nature reserves 'trashed' after lockdown easing

More than 20 nature reserves have been trashed as anti-social behaviour hit `` unprecedented '' levels following the easing of lockdown , a wildlife trust has said .
Fly-tipping , littering and barbecue fires have increased , Berkshire , Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust ( BBOWT ) said .
A trust director said it was the worst he had seen in 30 years .
Warm weather in recent weeks is also believed to have been a factor .
BBOWT said it was `` saddened and angered '' by the `` dramatic increase '' in habitat damage .
At Hosehill Lake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disturbed nesting birds including terns , lapwing , sand martins , and oyster catchers .
Breeding birds including the great crested grebe and reed warbler have been disturbed by `` people partying , drinking and having fires on the fishing platforms '' at Weston Turville Reservoir , Buckinghamshire , the trust said .
`` Out of control '' dogs have chased wildfowl and their young at Sydlings Copse , Oxfordshire , where a grazing pony was also found with a dog lead wrapped around its neck , the trust added .
BBOWT director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been shocked , saddened and angered by the frankly disgraceful behaviour and actions by some people which we have witnessed at our nature reserves in the last few weeks .
`` I 've worked in the sector for nearly 30 years and I 've never seen anything like this . ''
He said people had been seen kayaking , playing football , flying drones and camping in `` places which are meant to be places where wildlife can thrive '' , and where such activities were `` not permitted '' .
Across 25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fly-tipping , littering , and trampled paths through reed beds , as well as fences cut and an old building damaged by a break-in .
The trust urged anyone who witnesses anti-social and criminal activity at any of its nature reserves to contact police .

He said people had been seen kayaking, playing football, flying drones and camping in "places which are meant to be places where wildlife can thrive", and where such activities were "not permitted".


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Watchdog to investigate racial inequalities

The UK 's human rights watchdog is to investigate racial inequalities `` laid bare '' by the coronavirus outbreak .
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission will examine `` the loss of lives and livelihoods '' of people from different ethnic minorities .
This week a report found that people from ethnic minorities are at a higher risk of dying from coronavirus .
Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch has said work is under way to find out the reasons for the greater risk .
However , speaking in the House of Commons , she rejected claims from Labour MPs that `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and jobs is the cause of ethnic minorities being more likely to die from coronavirus in England .
She also told MPs the UK was `` one of the best countries in the world to be a black person '' .
• Why are more BAME people dying from coronavirus ?
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission ( EHRC ) says its inquiry aims to address `` serious issues that have yet to be fully answered '' and will provide evidence-based recommendations .
Announcing the investigation , watchdog chair David Isaac said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generation opportunity to tackle long-standing entrenched racial inequalities .
`` Only by taking focused action to tackle race inequality across Britain will we become a fair country in which every individual can reach their full potential .
`` This inquiry is part of our long-term strategic approach to tackle the structural inequalities that the coronavirus pandemic has laid bare . ''
The EHRC inquiry will be able to compel government departments to provide evidence to the inquiry and its terms of reference will be published in a few weeks , once race equality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This comes after thousands took part in marches protesting about racial inequalities .
The demonstrations were triggered by the death of George Floyd - an African-American man who died on 25 May when a white police officer continued to kneel on his neck after he pleaded he could not breathe .
On Tuesday , a Public Health England report found that the impact of coronavirus is `` disproportionate '' for Asian , Caribbean and black ethnicities .
It said if you strip out age and sex , people of Bangladeshi ethnicity have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of white British ethnicity .
People of Chinese , Indian , Pakistani , other Asian , Caribbean and other Black ethnicity had between a 10 % and 50 % higher risk of death when compared to white British people .
Meanwhile , Met Police data revealed that a disproportionate number of ethnic minority groups were fined for alleged breaches of the lockdown in London .
Shadow women and equalities Marsha de Cordova welcomed the human rights watchdog 's inquiry , saying : `` The coronavirus crisis has shone a light on these inequalities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take action to save BAME people 's lives during this pandemic .
`` Now is the time to take steps to tackle systemic racism , discrimination and injustice in Britain . ''
Women and Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch is leading the next stage of the government 's inquiry into disparities in coronavirus outcomes in England .
with the government 's racial disparities unit .
A spokeswoman said : `` The government is committed to levelling up and spreading opportunity around this country .
This will be a hugely important part of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Work is also under way to find out why an initial report by Public Health Scotland , found no racial disparity in coronavirus deaths in Scotland .

The EHRC inquiry will be able to compel government departments to provide evidence to the inquiry and its terms of reference will be published in a few weeks, once race equality leaders have been consulted on the proposals.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Who should wear a face mask or face covering?

Face coverings are to become compulsory for people using public transport in England from Monday 15 June .
They are already recommended in some enclosed spaces - like public transport and shops - when social distancing ( staying more than 2m apart ) is n't possible .
What are the new rules ?
The move to compulsory face coverings on buses , trains , ferries and planes will coincide with a further easing of lockdown restrictions .
From 15 June , ministers want more non-essential retailers to open and some secondary school pupils to return to classes .
This could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and make social distancing more difficult .
Announcing the new rules , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps stressed people should : • Continue working from home if they can do so • Avoid public transport if they ca n't work from home • Avoid the rush hour if they have to take public transport Some passengers will be exempt from the new rules : Mr Shapps said passengers should wear `` the kind of face covering you can easily make at home '' .
Surgical masks should be kept for medical uses .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't in full agreement about face coverings , `` we think it 's worth doing absolutely everything possible '' to reduce the spread of coronavirus .
How will the new rules be enforced ?
Mr Shapps said it would be a `` condition of travel '' to wear a face covering and people could be refused travel - and even fined - if they did n't follow the rules .
He said British Transport Police would enforce the regulation if necessary - but he hoped most travellers would comply .
Details of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Transport staff will also wear face coverings , and volunteer marshals , known as `` journey makers '' , will give advice .
Until now the government advice in England has said you should wear face coverings : • On public transport and in some shops , where social distancing ca n't be observed • In other enclosed spaces where you come into contact with others you do n't normally meet It also stresses that personal face coverings : • Do not replace social distancing - which should still be observed • Should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respirators , which should be left for healthcare staff and other workers who need them • Should not be worn by very young children or people who have problems breathing while wearing a face covering What about the rest of the UK ?
In Scotland , it is recommended that you consider using face coverings in limited circumstances - such as public transport - as a precautionary measure .
In Northern Ireland , people should have face coverings in enclosed spaces for short periods of time , where social distancing is not possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not ask for people to wear non-clinical face coverings - saying it is a `` matter of personal choice '' .
Why does n't everyone wear a mask now ?
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) currently says only two groups of people should wear protective masks , those who are : • caring for people suspected to have coronavirus It says medical masks should be reserved for healthcare workers .
Masks are not generally recommended for the public because : • they can be contaminated by other people 's coughs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or removing them • frequent hand-washing and social distancing are more effective • they might offer a false sense of security But that does n't mean they have no benefit at all for the general public - it 's just that the scientific evidence is inconclusive .
Homemade cloth face-coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission in some circumstances - they might help stop the spread of coronavirus by people who are contagious but have no symptoms ( known as asymptomatic transmission ) .
Scientists in Singapore suggest that risk is especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infected person is even aware they might have the disease .
Coronavirus is spread by droplets that can spray into the air when those infected talk , cough and sneeze .
These can enter the body through the eyes , nose and mouth , either directly or after touching a contaminated object .
What face masks are used by health workers ?
The most protective mask is an FFP3 or , alternatively , an N95 or an FFP2 .
NHS staff in lower-risk situations can wear a surgical mask .
This includes healthcare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with possible or confirmed Covid-19 .
These staff may be in hospitals , primary care , ambulance trusts , community care settings and care homes .
Where am I supposed to get a face covering ?
There is lots of advice online about how to make them .
• How to make your own face mask Suggestions include using common household items , such as cotton fabric from old T-shirts or bedding .
The government has published advice on how to wear and make your own cloth face covering which says : • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mouth and nose while allowing you to breathe comfortably • It can be as simple as a scarf or bandana that ties behind the head • Wash your hands or use hand sanitiser before putting it on and after taking it off and after use • Avoid touching your eyes , nose , or mouth at all times and store used face coverings in a plastic bag until you have an opportunity to wash them What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The rules on self-isolation and exercise

What are the latest rules for face coverings and masks? Published 16 March 2022
Image source, Reuters
Rules around face coverings are easing across the UK, but they are still required in some settings.
Heathrow Airport and a number of airlines are relaxing their rules on masks.
But Nicola Sturgeon has said face coverings must still be worn in Scotland after all other legal requirements are lifted on 21 March.
What is the situation in Scotland?
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed that Scotland's rules on face coverings will remain in place until April, due to a rise in Covid cases.
All other restrictions on businesses and services will move from legal requirement to guidance on 21 March.
The rules on masks will be reviewed again on 29 March, and are expected to be converted to guidance by 4 April.
At the moment, masks must be worn in most indoor public spaces including public transport, shops and gyms (although they can be temporarily removed when exercising).
They are mandatory in pubs and restaurants when not seated or dancing, as well as in the workplace in communal areas and canteens.
They no longer have to be worn by secondary school students in the classroom - but are still required in "indoor communal areas" like corridors.
Under-12s are exempt.
What is the situation in England?
Masks are no longer legally required in most public spaces - although they are still recommended in some situations:
What is the situation in Wales?
Face coverings are no longer required in classrooms and some venues such as museums and cinemas.
However, they will still need to be worn in shops, salons, hairdressers, health and social care settings and on public transport.
The Welsh government has said it intends to lift all remaining Covid regulations by the end of March.
What is the situation in Northern Ireland?
Mask-wearing is no longer legally enforced in Northern Ireland.
However, face coverings are still recommended in certain places, such as enclosed public spaces and health and social care settings.
How much can I be fined for not wearing a mask?
In Wales, the penalty for a first offence is £60, with the fine doubling for each subsequent offence - up to a maximum of £1,920. Repeat offenders can also be prosecuted in court where fines are unlimited.
In Scotland, the police can issue a penalty notice of up to £60 for breaking the law on mask-wearing.
Why use a face covering?
Evidence suggests transmission mainly happens indoors, where people are close together.
Covering the nose and mouth reduces the spread of coronavirus droplets from coughs, sneezes and while speaking.
The main purpose is to protect others, although there is some evidence they offer protection to wearers.
What sort of face covering is best?
It should:
have a nose wire
have at least two or three layers of material
fit snugly over mouth, nose and chin


bbcuk--2020-06-04--Weird weather: Can computers solve UK puzzle?

A top climate scientist has called for more investment in climate computing to explain the UK ’ s recent topsy turvy weather .
Prof Tim Palmer from Oxford University said there were still too many unknowns in climate forecasting .
And in the month the SpaceX launch grabbed headlines , he said just one of the firm 's billions could transform climate modelling .
And long-term trends in rising temperatures aren ’ t in doubt .
But Prof Palmer says many puzzles remain unsolved : take the recent weird weather in the UK , with the wettest February on record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May was sunniest UK month on record Meteorologists were astounded by this unprecedented weather somersault – and especially by the amazing amount that May sunshine exceeded the previous record .
This year ’ s figure was 13 % higher than the previous record – that ’ s like the winner of the 100 metres leaving opponents over 11 metres behind .
Some place the blame on climate change , but the Met Office says , as yet , there ’ s no strong evidence for that .
Prof Palmer told BBC News : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us to have more knowledge of how climate change is affecting weather patterns like this .
“ Was climate change implicated in the recent weird weather ?
We don ’ t know.
” He agrees that space observations have massively improved our understanding of the climate .
But he complains : “ It is very frustrating to see space get quite so much attention when we can ’ t be sure what will happen to the climate on Earth .
“ If only we could secure one of their billions for computer modelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So what do we know so far about recent British weather weirdness ?
Well , here ’ s what ’ s clear : the strong jetstream to the south-west of England through the winter locked in place the succession of Atlantic storms that drenched the UK .
The Met Office successfully predicted the wet winter in its seasonal forecast , but failed to predict the sudden leap to a dry spring when the jetstream was looped over the UK , holding the sunny weather in place .
In a global climate chicken-and-egg debate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jetstream behaved this way .
Some scientists believe it ’ s being affected by conditions in the Arctic , which is warming faster than anywhere on the planet , because of greenhouse gases .
But this is disputed .
Prof Palmer said the jetstream appeared to be influenced by a climate phenomenon known as the Indian dipole – an irregular oscillating current in the Indian Ocean .
This was also blamed for the wildfires in Australia .
But what ’ s influencing the Indian dipole ?
Or is it completely natural ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ side of the world can influence our weather – but did water round the Chagos Archipelago really prompt a “ barbecue spring “ in grateful lockdown Britain ?
“ There are very strange things going on in the tropics , ” Prof Palmer added .
“ The question is , ‘ is it natural ?
’ and we ’ re not yet sure.
” Scientists are now planning to re-run UK climate models over recent years and remove the heating element of CO2 emissions from the mathematical puzzle .
That should offer a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Prof Palmer admits it ’ s surprising this exercise wasn ’ t done sooner .
But of all the uses of extra cash for climate research , he thinks the most useful spending on climate research might be to unlock the secret of clouds – one of the most intractable climate mysteries .
If warmer weather leads to more low-level clouds , that will bounce out radiation and cool the Earth .
If it leads to more high-level clouds , that will trap in heat .
In fact , Prof Palmer said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that if we ’ re unlucky , global temperatures may rise by 5C after CO2 levels are doubled – a level utterly inhospitable to humans .
The conclusion was previously ruled out under different analysis .
“ We need to understand these processes better , ” he says .
“ Normally in science you learn about the system under study by doing laboratory experiments .
With Earth ’ s climate , there is no lab experiment you can do .
“ The climate model is the only tool we have to understand what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a result of climate change .
“ Space observations tell us what is happening now , but climate models tell us about what will happen next year , next decade , next century .
”

Prof Palmer admits it’s surprising this exercise wasn’t done sooner. But of all the uses of extra cash for climate research, he thinks the most useful spending on climate research might be to unlock the secret of clouds – one of the most intractable climate mysteries.


bbcuk--2020-06-04--Coronavirus: Job-hunting advice for graduates, from the Class of 2008

Graduates face even tougher competition for jobs this summer because of the coronavirus pandemic .
About 400,000 students finishing their degrees in 2020 have seen opportunities evaporate overnight .
Twelve years ago , graduates faced similar anxiety when the global financial crisis threw much of the world into recession .
Banks collapsed , businesses went under , and millions of people lost their jobs .
But what can the Class of 2008 teach the Class of 2020 ?
We asked three graduates from 2008 what advice they would give to their younger counterparts .
Lindsay Cash , 35 : 'Try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advantage' I think I 'm one of the lucky ones from 2008 .
I studied law at Warwick University .
I was finishing my legal practice course ( LPC ) when law firms started contacting people to defer their training contracts .
My friends and I were all in the same boat .
So when the phone rang , I already knew what they 'd say .
My training contract was deferred for two years , but luckily the firm offered me a job as a paralegal .
The salary was about £6,000-a-year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insolvency and litigation at the time so I was always busy .
By the time I qualified in 2012 , they were still making people redundant .
There were n't any jobs in the area I wanted to go into , so I left my law firm and decided to see the world .
I ended up in Australia , where I 've been working ever since , first in financial services and now in IT as a commercial manager .
People have challenged me about my longevity in a job .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flight risk ?
And I just say that my CV is a product of the financial crisis .
I took roles that helped me to build skills that I would use in the future .
I never sat waiting to be given something .
And when you explain that , it resonates with people , especially the older generation .
There 's a great speech by Steve Jobs ( the co-founder of Apple ) who said , `` You ca n't connect the dots looking forward ; you can only connect them looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I realise that things do n't always work out .
But you have to regroup and say : what do I need to do to move forward ?
I was 11 years old when I knew I wanted to become a pilot .
I even thought about applying to the Royal Air Force straight after finishing A-levels .
But my careers adviser told me a university degree would look better on the application form .
I 'd get paid more and be promoted more quickly .
So I went to the University of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
By the time I graduated in 2008 , the opportunities were already drying up .
The RAF recruitment office told me they were n't recruiting for certain roles like pilots .
I could n't even wait a year to apply again because I 'd be too old .
I was gutted .
There were n't any graduate jobs left where I 'm from in Sunderland .
So I used a scattergun approach to apply for anything going .
In the end I spent a year working at a call centre .
After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for six months and then a steel factory .
For six years I worked my way up from the production line to sales and operations , before moving to an IT company .
By then I 'd spent a decade working for other people .
I have a daughter who 's 10 years old now .
Little things like having to ask for a day 's holiday just to see her school play made me rethink my career .
So I used my experience to set up WL Distillery in County Durham last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of premium gin .
And then the pandemic hit .
The Chinese factory making some of our equipment was mothballed so we could n't make gin .
But we saw there was a massive hand sanitiser shortage , so we decided to use our ingredients to make small batches for the NHS , local schools and businesses .
My advice to recent graduates is to stay as positive as you can and stop fixating on things that do n't work out .
I thought my life was mapped out : go to university @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life , and get a nice retirement package at the end with a watch .
And that 's not the world we live in anymore .
So be open to opportunities that you may not have planned for .
Working in a call centre was where I learned the right way to treat and talk to staff .
It 's amazing the skills you pick up in jobs that you do n't even realise .
I 'm ashamed to say it now , but when I graduated in 2008 I thought people would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was a financial crisis going on , but I believed the market almost owed me a job .
I had a history degree from Oxford University and was always a high achiever .
I also lacked humility in a very big way .
At the time I was gunning for graduate schemes at consumer goods giants like Unilever and Reckitt Benckiser .
When I did n't get anywhere , I started applying to advertising agencies , and big retailers like Tesco .
I think I filled in about 110 applications .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months of trying and no job to show for it , I ended up moving back home to Southampton where I took a job as a medical receptionist .
I felt embarrassed and had lost confidence .
That job made me realise I was n't as good as I thought I was .
So many people I worked with could do my job better than me .
After that I got an internship at Oxfam .
This was instrumental because I made a lot of contacts and eventually did a masters degree in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ career path I 'm on now , which led to my current job at a digital consultancy .
It 's also where I met my husband !
In retrospect , I held graduate schemes in really high esteem , which was actually a bit silly .
For example , when I did n't succeed at Unilever , I simply gave up .
I did n't think about looking for an entry-level job to get a foot in the door there .
I 'd say to recent graduates : do n't be afraid to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the things you take for granted .
Back in 2008 , we were entering the job market as the early users of Facebook and Twitter , so we could educate companies on how to use those platforms .
Businesses today are still trying to figure out TikTok , so do n't underestimate the power of your digital knowledge .
• RISK AT WORK : How exposed is your job ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your area ?

There weren't any graduate jobs left where I'm from in Sunderland. So I used a scattergun approach to apply for anything going. In the end I spent a year working at a call centre. After that, I worked at a lighthouse for six months and then a steel factory. For six years I worked my way up from the production line to sales and operations, before moving to an IT company.


bbcuk--2020-06-04--UK zoos at risk of closure

UK zoos at risk of closure

Behind the scenes at empty London Zoo London Zoo might have closed its doors because of coronavirus , but zookeepers @ @ @ @ @ .
They took us on a virtual tour of the zoo to meet some amazing @ @

The Covid crisis has put the survival of the Chester Zoo at risk, the attraction has said.
It has been closed to visitors since 21 March, and like other large zoos, has been told by the government to prepare to stay shut "indefinitely".
Zoo keeper James Edwards showed BBC science correspondent Victoria Gill around the deserted zoo.
Filmed and edited by Rob Wood


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Newspaper headlines: Suspect in Madeleine case 'unmasked' in papers

Many of Friday 's newspaper front pages have named and pictured the suspect in the Madeleine McCann case .
Because of German privacy law , and the BBC website being accessible in Germany , the BBC has not pictured him .
The Madeleine McCann investigation makes almost all of the front pages for a second day , with many of the newspapers naming and picturing the new suspect .
The Daily Mail says the man , who is currently in jail in Germany , had been `` on the police radar '' for two decades .
Portuguese police face `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mirror , after they failed to put him on a shortlist of 600 suspects in the days after Madeleine went missing - despite his criminal record .
According to the Daily Telegraph , he was investigated at the time of the three-year-old 's disappearance in 2007 , but ruled out when detectives on the Algarve wrongly declared her parents as suspects .
The Times thinks the prominent appeal for information by the police suggests they still need a breakthrough .
The developments in the case give cause for hope , says the paper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way off '' .
As the government 's official number of coronavirus deaths in the UK approaches 40,000 , several papers report on growing criticism of Boris Johnson 's handling of the pandemic .
The Financial Times says the `` mood in Westminster has darkened '' , with Conservative MPs `` increasingly dismayed '' at a series of `` policy missteps '' .
In its editorial , the Times urges Boris Johnson to `` admit that mistakes have been made '' .
The paper says his refusal to `` lead from the front @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public '' is undermining confidence in the government 's grip on the crisis at a crucial time .
The Sun agrees the government 's credibility is being `` battered '' and it 's time for Mr Johnson to `` take back control '' .
Sign up for a morning briefing direct to your inbox The Guardian reports that the coronavirus test and trace system will not be fully operational in England until September - or even October .
According to the paper , a senior executive who was brought in to help run @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` imperfect '' and `` clunky '' , just days before it was launched by the government .
The paper has also seen a leaked email from the chief executive of Serco - the main contractor delivering the service - who said he doubted the system would `` evolve smoothly '' .
The Times , the Daily Telegraph and the Metro all lead on the government 's change of policy on face masks .
The Telegraph reminds readers that ministers spent weeks dismissing the idea as `` largely pointless '' at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggesting face coverings did `` more harm than good '' .
The paper says the U-turn means the government is now being criticised for `` dragging its heels '' over rules that have been in place in many European countries for months .
In its editorial , the paper insists people should be allowed to make their own `` common sense '' decisions .
The Times says the government 's change of heart has prompted calls for face coverings to also be made mandatory in shops .
`` Dithering is deadly '' says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why it has `` taken so long '' to bring in the measure .
Meanwhile , research published in the Telegraph suggests bald men may be at a higher risk of suffering severe symptoms of coronavirus .
Two studies of patients in Spain found that almost 80 % of men with Covid-19 across three hospitals in Madrid were bald , leading some scientists to suggest it should be considered as a risk factor .
The lead author of the research thinks male sex hormones may play a part not only in hair loss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the virus to attack cells .
• I MAY DESTROY YOU : The next must-see show in lockdown • WHO IS WATCHING YOU WORK ?
: The future of working from home The Times reports that plans are being drawn up to abandon the new system for voting in the Commons , just a week after it was introduced .
MPs could be asked to swap the `` conga line '' for a `` self-checkout queue '' , after complaints the system was unsafe and too time consuming .
The paper says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their cards on an electronic reader in the division lobbies , allowing them to divide into two lines while they wait .

According to the paper, a senior executive who was brought in to help run the NHS programme told staff the scheme was "imperfect" and "clunky", just days before it was launched by the government.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Harlesden shooting: Arrest after boy, 2, and mother among four hurt

A man has been arrested after four people , including a two-year-old boy , were shot in north-west London .
The group , which included the child 's mother and two men in their late teens , was attacked in Energen Close , Harlesden , on Wednesday evening .
They were all taken to hospital where the boy is in a serious but stable condition .
A 19-year-old man has been held on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody , the Met said .
The force said he was arrested after officers `` executed warrants at two addresses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The three injured adults are in non life-threatening or life-changing conditions .
The victims , who were known to each other , were in the street at about 21:45 when they were approached by a man who was carrying a hand gun .
Scotland Yard said he had fired `` multiple shots '' at the two men , then also shot into a nearby car .
`` As a result of the indiscriminate shooting the mother was hit , as was the child who was in the car , '' the force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a motorbike .
A 59-year-old resident , who did not want to be named , said he believed he heard five gunshots before officers arrived .
His 23-year-old son said he went downstairs to see what had happened and `` saw two people being taken out on stretchers '' .
Det Ch Insp Rick Sewart said the child had been left `` seriously ill '' due to a `` wanton act of indiscriminate violence '' .
`` I know that people will be shocked and horrified that a little boy should be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the community to show their support for him and his family , by telling police what they know , '' he said .

"I know that people will be shocked and horrified that a little boy should be the victim of a gunman and I need the community to show their support for him and his family, by telling police what they know," he said.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--NI coronavirus deaths fall for fifth week in a row

The number of Covid-19 related deaths in Northern Ireland has fallen for the fifth week in a row , figures show .
The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency ( Nisra ) has published its latest statistical bulletin .
By last Friday , it had recorded 757 deaths in total .
36 deaths occurred in the week ending 29 May , it said .
NI 's Department of Health , which releases daily figures , had recorded 528 deaths in total - more than 200 fewer - by the same date .
Nisra records all fatalities where Covid-19 is mentioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also show that care home residents have accounted for more than half of Covid-linked deaths in Northern Ireland .
Of those deaths , 328 ( 82.8 % ) occurred in a care home , with the remaining 68 taking place in hospital .
The bulletin also states that deaths in care homes are falling , with nine of the 36 deaths recorded in the week ending 29 May occurring in care homes .
Nisra said that is a drop of more than 25 % in the previous week .
• What we know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How can we stop coronavirus in care homes ?
Nisra 's report says of the 757 deaths it recorded by 29 May , 328 ( 43.3 % ) occurred in care homes ; 381 ( 50.3 % ) occurred in hospital and eight ( 1.1 % ) occurred in hospices .
Residential addresses or another location are recorded as being the site of 40 deaths ( 5.3 % ) .
The deaths in care homes and hospices involved 78 separate establishments , Nisra reported .
People aged over 75 accounted for 80 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland .
The latest figures from Nisra also include a breakdown of all Covid-19 related deaths by council area .
Of the 11 councils , Belfast has recorded the most deaths , 226 , while Fermanagh and Omagh has registered the fewest deaths , recording 16 .
Nisra said the total number of all deaths registered in Northern Ireland in the week ending 29 May was 316 ; falling from 325 in the previous week - but higher than what would be expected at this time of year .
The corresponding five-year average @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Nisra said there had been 939 `` excess deaths '' registered in Northern Ireland over the last nine weeks .
This measure captures all deaths caused by the coronavirus - the infections that were confirmed and feature in the daily figures , as well as the suspected cases that were mentioned on the death certificate .
It also records the deaths caused indirectly by the epidemic , such as people who died because of the strain on hospitals and care homes or by the effects of the lockdown .
What do we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care homes ?
Three separate care homes in Northern Ireland have publicly reported deaths in double figures , including : • Ten deaths at Parkview Care Home in Glencairn , west Belfast , out of 59 residents • Fourteen deaths at Ringdufferin Nursing Home in Killyleagh , County Down The Department of Health has said testing will be carried out for all care home staff and residents by June .
There have been 170 confirmed or suspected Covid-19 outbreaks in care homes across Northern Ireland , according to figures from the Department of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister Robin Swann announced a further £11.7m in funding to support care homes .
The money will be used to help pay staff when off on sick leave , provide extra support for cleaning costs and to purchase specialist equipment .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW How to understand the death toll • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?

Nisra said the total number of all deaths registered in Northern Ireland in the week ending 29 May was 316; falling from 325 in the previous week - but higher than what would be expected at this time of year.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Passengers asked to 'consider' face masks in Wales

Rail and bus passengers in Wales have been asked to `` consider '' wearing a face mask when wearing one on public transport becomes the rule in England .
It was announced on Thursday that wearing a mask on buses , trams , trains , coaches , aircraft and ferries will be compulsory in England from 15 June .
Now Transport for Wales wants people in Wales to `` consider '' following suit to help avoid spreading coronavirus .
It is due to the `` cross border nature '' of Wales ' public transport network .
Wales ' first minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` marginal public health case '' for facemasks in everyday life .
But Wales ' transport bosses now want passengers to follow England 's lead , particularly due to the number of cross-border train services .
• How to make your own face mask • Why some countries wear face masks and others don't • Can masks stop the spread of viruses ?
• The correct way to wear a face covering '' Transport for Wales ( TfW ) has launched a 'travel safer ' campaign for public transport users in Wales today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our customers can consider wearing face coverings in line with advice from the chief medical officer for Wales , '' said a TfW spokesperson .
`` `` We are aware that use of face coverings has been made mandatory by the UK government for rail journeys in England from 15 June .
`` The cross border nature of our network means that we will continue to work collaboratively with industry partners to ensure customers understand how they can travel safely as they travel between Wales and England .
`` The safety of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we 'd like to reinforce the message to stay local and only use public transport if the journey is essential and there 's no other travel alternative . ''
Very young children , disabled people and those with breathing difficulties were exempt from England 's rules .
It comes as the UK recorded the deaths of another 176 people who tested positive for coronavirus , taking the total number of deaths in the UK to 39,904 .
Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said her government was considering whether to make it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situations .
Scotland currently recommends wearing coverings in shops and on public transport .
In Northern Ireland , people have been told to consider wearing them in places where they can not observe social distancing .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) currently says only two groups of people should wear protective masks - those who are sick and showing symptoms and those who are caring for people with suspected coronavirus .
The WHO does not usually recommend them for the public because they can be contaminated by other people 's coughs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on , or taking them off .
How to make your own face mask Do n't have a bandana ?
Click here to find out how to make other face masks .

"Emerging evidence has shown that if mouths and noses are covered when people are in areas where they cannot socially distance, it may help in in controlling the spread of infection of Covid-19 and therefore save lives.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Care home residents face steep hike in fees

Some older people in care homes are being asked to pay more than £100 a week extra in fees to cover the costs of coronavirus .
Age UK said residents who pay their own fees are facing the bills to pay for protective gear and rising staff costs .
It adds `` insult to injury '' for people who have `` been through the mill '' during the pandemic , the charity said .
The government said it provided £600m for infection control in care homes and £3.2bn for wider council services .
• Could more UK virus deaths have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the epidemic in care homes ?
• How many confirmed cases are there in your area ?
Care home residents who fund themselves have effectively subsidised the care system for many years , paying far more for their support than those funded by their local authority .
Age UK says on average these residents are charged just over £850 pounds a week , and some are now seeing their fees rise by 15 % .
It is not clear how many care homes have asked self-funding residents to pay more .
There are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care homes in England , with 167,000 believed to be self-funders and 45,000 part self-funders .
Caroline Abrahams , director of Age UK , said older people and their families have `` been through the mill '' in recent months as outbreaks occurred in one in three care homes .
`` It is adding insult to injury that after going through so much , some residents who pay for their own care are now facing a big extra bill - on top of already expensive fees . ''
She called for government to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying that otherwise there was a risk that some could fold and leave their residents homeless .
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
During the pandemic , many care homes have spent hundreds of thousands of pounds of protective equipment to stop the spread of Covid-19 between staff , residents and visitors .
They have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when employees are off sick or isolating .
In total , the Local Government Association ( LGA ) and directors of adult social care estimate that providers face potential additional costs of £6.6bn between April and September .
`` People living in care homes should not be penalised in this way , '' said councillor Ian Hudspeth , chairman of the LGA 's community well-being board .
He said the way self-funders subsidised the system was already unfair and should be addressed as part of the long-term reform of the social care system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care home providers with the extra costs `` to the best of their ability '' .
To support their work during the pandemic , local authorities have been given £3.2bn by the government , which also announced a £600m infection control fund for care homes .
The Department of Health and Social Care said it would keep future funding needs under review , but would not confirm that it would provide more money to councils .
It said it would work with local authorities to ensure the funding is distributed fairly and reaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this pandemic is creating significant challenges for care homes and that extra support is needed to care for residents , '' a spokesman said .
• I MAY DESTROY YOU : The next must-see show in lockdown

"It is adding insult to injury that after going through so much, some residents who pay for their own care are now facing a big extra bill - on top of already expensive fees."


bbcuk--2020-06-05--The 'unscrupulous' firms targeting key workers

`` Unscrupulous '' firms are promising NHS workers big savings through tax dodging schemes that could leave them out of pocket .
The firms , which operate at the fringes of the law , target key workers drafted in to help with the coronavirus crisis , a BBC Money Box investigation found .
Social media adverts push workers toward some umbrella companies that take a hefty cut of their salaries .
In return , these companies hide a portion of their pay from the taxman .
But Her Majesty 's Revenue and Customs ( HMRC ) has said signing up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as `` unscrupulous '' , could leave key workers facing large , unexpected tax bills .
One advert on Twitter says : `` If you 've been drafted in to reinforce the NHS response to the # coronavirus pandemic , we want to assist you . ''
When operating legitimately , working through an umbrella company can make it easier to take on jobs for multiple employers at once .
The worker has their salary paid to the umbrella company , which then pays tax , National Insurance and other deductions on their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the umbrella company will then pay the worker what is left .
But one company told Money Box that it was possible to save thousands of pounds a year legally by hiding a large chunk of a worker 's salary from the taxman .
Posing as a healthcare worker on a salary of £145 a day , our reporter was told by Dark Blue Professional , a UK-registered umbrella company , that they could take home 78 % of their salary , which is more than they would have made through a standard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Professional explained how the scheme works : `` You receive one payment which is a PAYE [ pay as you earn ] salary payment , that 's taxed and you receive a payslip - and the residual balance is then paid as an investment payment . ''
`` You receive your second amount into your account…and because it 's done that way there is no tax liability on the second proportion , '' she told us .
As a result , a healthcare worker earning £725 per week would be able to pocket @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standard umbrella company .
• ' I may lose it all , but there 's no help for me' • Gambling loophole 'must be shut down' But what Kay did not say is that Dark Blue Professional would take £80 a week in fees , four times the industry standard , and that the government would be cheated out of up to half the tax that it should have received .
Kay insisted the scheme is tax compliant .
But similar types of scheme have been challenged by HMRC in the past , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crippling tax bills .
Some even faced losing their homes , leaving their finances in tatters .
Responding to the findings of Money Box investigation , Judith Freedman - professor of taxation law and policy at Oxford University - said : `` There 's a strong likelihood that HMRC will challenge them [ the schemes ] successfully .
`` `` Not only could the individual taxpayers be left with a big tax bill and a lot of hassle , but they have already paid relatively large fees to the promoters , so they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been doing things in a straightforward way , '' she said .
`` It is distressing that people are trying to sell these schemes with…minimal explanation of the risks .
Everything possible needs to be done to stop the firms doing this before ordinary taxpayers get caught up in it . ''
Money Box also spoke to a broker from Contracting Scout , which actively targets key workers with adverts on Twitter and LinkedIn .
`` Tim '' , from Contracting Scout , offered to sign us up with an umbrella company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He explained that the umbrella companies he works with `` are taking advantage of a few tax loopholes '' and admitted that `` the government does n't like it '' .
`` They [ the government ] do try and legislate against it , but legislation is extremely slow , so once the new legislation moves in there 's a hundred different umbrellas that pop up next week with a different type of payment structure which does n't get captivated by the law .
`` So the goal posts are always moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cater to that , '' he said .
Neither of the two companies responded to the findings of our investigation .
An HMRC spokesperson told Money Box `` it is shocking that unscrupulous promoters of tax avoidance schemes are targeting returning NHS workers during this difficult time .
HMRC published [ advice ] on 30 March warning returning workers about this very issue .
`` Our advice has always been to steer well clear of such schemes , and to report them to us in confidence for investigation '' .
There are more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and you can follow Anna and Money Box on Twitter .

"Not only could the individual taxpayers be left with a big tax bill and a lot of hassle, but they have already paid relatively large fees to the promoters, so they are much worse off than they would have been doing things in a straightforward way," she said.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Two-metre rule 'must be relaxed for musicians'

The government is being urged to ease social distancing for musicians , so more of them can get back performing and recording .
Musicians ' Union leader Horace Trubridge told the BBC they could play `` side by side '' to lessen the risk of spreading coronavirus .
The 2m rule was `` overkill '' at a `` bleak '' time for his members , he added .
The government said it welcomed `` creative and innovative '' ideas to help the UK 's `` brilliant '' musicians .
Coronavirus means theatres , pubs , clubs and other indoor music @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future , while promoters have cancelled all the UK 's main festivals .
• Could social distancing of less than two metres work ?
The Labour-affiliated Musicians ' Union is in talks with the Department for Culture , Media and Sport over `` enhanced busking '' - allowing spectators in outdoor spaces to make contactless payments for individual and group performances .
`` They seem to be keen on that , '' Mr Trubridge said , adding that councils could `` relax their bylaws '' to help `` get live music back into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ argued it was difficult to see a way of easing social distancing for audiences to make theatres and venues viable during the pandemic , but that this was not the case for performers .
`` There 's no finesse about the 2m rule at the moment , '' Mr Trubridge said .
`` If you 're in a line rather than looking at each other , then it seems to be overkill . ''
The World Health Organisation recommends a distance of 1m between people from different households , but the UK is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trubridge said this distance was particularly unnecessary for string and percussion instrumentalists , as opposed to singers , as they could wear masks .
Many musicians had been earning £20,000 a year or less even before coronavirus , and some were missing out on furlough payments and loans , he said , adding : `` I ca n't see anything really significant happening this year to help them out of this hole . ''
A Department for Culture , Media and Sport spokesperson said : `` These are challenging times for the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are providing unprecedented support through substantial financial measures such as the Self-Employed Income Support and Bounce Back loan schemes . ''
They added : `` We welcome creative and innovative ideas on how we can support our talented musicians . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : How to self-isolate and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • STRESS : How to look after your mental health

Many musicians had been earning £20,000 a year or less even before coronavirus, and some were missing out on furlough payments and loans, he said, adding: "I can't see anything really significant happening this year to help them out of this hole."


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Prince William reveals he is secret helpline volunteer

The Duke of Cambridge has revealed he has been anonymously counselling people during lockdown .
He has been volunteering at Shout 85258 , which offers support via text message to people in personal crisis .
Prince William said he had been answering messages after being trained by the mental health charity .
Last month he told fellow volunteers in a video call : `` I 'm going to share a little secret with you guys , but I 'm actually on the platform volunteering . ''
Kensington Palace announced the prince 's involvement to mark Volunteers Week , which ends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service would not know they are talking to a member of the Royal Family - like Shout 's 2,000 volunteers , William would use a pseudonym on the platform .
The Cambridges and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex helped to launch Shout 85258 last year - investing £3m in the service via their Royal Foundation .
In a little over a year since then , more than 300,000 text conversations have been had on the service .
Around 65 % of those texting are aged under 25 , the charity said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What do Shout volunteers do ?
Training as a crisis volunteer at Shout puts William in the frontline of services for young people in distress - and it 's a tough role .
CVs , as they 're known , undertake special training to support those in crisis .
On the Shout platform they 'll encounter , and be tasked with helping , those in very real distress .
Some texters are experiencing depression or panic attacks , others are self-harming .
A large proportion say they feel suicidal .
The job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ texter to a cool , calm place where they may begin to establish solutions .
Sometimes they 'll just need to build resilience , with support from friends or family .
In others , they 'll be guided toward charities or NHS mental health support .
It 's not unusual for a texter to be about to take his or her own life .
This can lead to what Shout call an 'Active Rescue ' - the CV will continue gently talking to the texter while the emergency services are called in by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone down from a bridge , or persuading them to put away that bottle of pills , these conversations can be gruelling and rewarding in equal measure .
The fact that the second in line to the throne is now routinely helping people in such desperate situations is hugely significant - it gives Prince William a unique perspective on what young people in crisis may be going through .
The Duchess of Cambridge has also been calling those who are self-isolating or vulnerable , as part of the Royal Voluntary Service 's NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people signed up to be part of the scheme 's `` volunteer army '' after it launched in April , but some later expressed frustration at not having been used .
Last week , the duchess thanked others who had signed up to help the scheme , calling them `` the backbone of our country '' .
The Cambridges marked Volunteers Week by holding video calls with those helping charities in England and Wales .
Among them were those working at Conscious Youth , which helps young people from mainly black and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ During the call , Prince William joked about home-schooling his six-year-old son Prince George , saying : `` I struggle with Year 2 maths . ''
The Cambridges also spoke to a group of neighbours in mid-Wales who have been offering help with shopping , cooking and deliveries during lockdown .
The prince told the 120 volunteers they had offered `` a lifeline '' to people in their community .

Whether it be talking someone down from a bridge, or persuading them to put away that bottle of pills, these conversations can be gruelling and rewarding in equal measure. The fact that the second in line to the throne is now routinely helping people in such desperate situations is hugely significant - it gives Prince William a unique perspective on what young people in crisis may be going through.


bbcuk--2020-06-05--Coronavirus: Want to sell a home? Make the garden look nice

Landlords and owners putting their homes on the market are being told to show off gardens in marketing photos as house-hunters search for space .
Pictures of the kitchen had previously been considered key to attracting the attention of browsers .
Lockdown has changed the priorities of buyers and renters , many of whom have been working from home , research by property portal Rightmove suggests .
Flats are the big losers , as indoor and outdoor space becomes a bigger draw .
Rightmove said that a studio flat was the most sought-after property type among renters in January , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown - it had dropped out of the top five .
A two-bedroom house is now the biggest attraction .
Moving further out of town Flats have also dropped out of the top five wanted list among buyers , calculated from the number of enquiries per property of each type .
Many people would usually have been priced out of larger homes with big gardens , but indications suggest they are willing to accept a longer commute in order to cast the net wider for an affordable property .
The property market was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic .
Since the easing of restrictions in England in mid-May , property portals and estate agents have reported a surge in interest .
Some believe the rebound will be short-lived owing to inevitable economic pain which will follow the outbreak .
At present , interest in property is high in some areas .
Lockdown break-ups , job losses and urgent relocations are thought to have led to a surge in the rental sector .
This is dependent on the area .
Coastal towns , and some urban areas have seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 51 % increase compared with last year in Wolverhampton , Rightmove data shows .
However , London and the commuter belt of south-east England have seen demand fall , with the biggest drop of nearly 14 % compared with last year seen in Croydon .
Property sales plunged during lockdown , but at the same time renters and buyers appear to have reassessed what they want in a home .
Estate agent Savills , which deals with high-end property , has noted higher interest in countryside living .
Now the Rightmove research @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website 's data and a survey of 4,000 potential movers , has suggested 49 % of renters and 39 % of buyers have changed what they are looking for as a response to living in lockdown .
Among buyers , four and six bedroom houses have become more sought-after .
• Mortgage payment holiday extended for further three months • House prices see largest monthly fall for 11 years , says Nationwide As half of those asked wanted to work from home with only occasional trips to work , a third of movers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ internet and a spare room are now higher up on wish-lists , but commuting times and transport links are less important , the survey found .
The good Spring weather seems to have made one of the biggest impacts on intentions .
`` Both buyers and renters are craving a home with its own outside space rather than a flat , '' said Miles Shipside , Rightmove 's housing market analyst .
Searches by buyers for homes with gardens on Rightmove were up 42 % in May compared with the same month a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % over the same period among renters .
`` Usually home-movers tell us the kitchen photographs are the most important when they 're looking at a property advert , but now agents should consider giving greater prominence to pictures of gardens and outdoor spaces to attract the attention of prospective renters and buyers , '' Mr Shipside said .
He said sellers should consider painting the fence and clearing out the shed to make a property more attractive and landlords should ensure a communal garden has been included in any rental listing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen before , but could fizzle out as sellers with gardens raise their asking prices accordingly .
• THE R NUMBER : What it means and why it matters • LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• RECOVERY : How long does it take to get better ?

"Usually home-movers tell us the kitchen photographs are the most important when they're looking at a property advert, but now agents should consider giving greater prominence to pictures of gardens and outdoor spaces to attract the attention of prospective renters and buyers," Mr Shipside said.