bbcuk--2020-12-17--Pupils' historical abuse at London schools claims total £1m

Another former male student , now in his mid-40s , said in his legal claim that at the age of @ @ @ @ @ `` urinate in the middle of the classroom '' in front of his classmates as @ @ @ @ @ toilet during break time .

Another former male student, now in his mid-40s, said in his legal claim that at the age of five he was made to "urinate in the middle of the classroom" in front of his classmates as punishment for not using the toilet during break time.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--'World's ugliest orchid' tops list of new discoveries

Dr Martin Cheek , a senior scientist at Kew , said there has been a bumper list of incredible newly @ @ @ @ @ `` It 's pretty sensational to have six new species to science from the UK @ @ @ @ @ happen with fungi because of the fungi on our planet we know such a minute @ @ @ @ @

Dr Martin Cheek, a senior scientist at Kew, said there has been a bumper list of incredible newly named species this year. "It's pretty sensational to have six new species to science from the UK and it would only ever happen with fungi because of the fungi on our planet we know such a minute proportion of them."


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Covid: 'Miracle' survivor Mal Martin feared his life was over

He added : `` My consultant said to me my wife and my children came in to say goodbye - @ @ @ @ @ have said that to be fair - but he did it and that really sort @ @ @ @ @ the time .

He added: "My consultant said to me my wife and my children came in to say goodbye - he wasn't supposed to have said that to be fair - but he did it and that really sort of got to me at the time.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Covid: What are the new tiers and lockdown rules in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?

People with whom you do n't live can not enter your home socially , unless you are in an extended @ @ @ @ @ them .
Tradespeople can enter your home to carry out work .

If you test positive for Covid you are no longer legally required to self-isolate, but you are advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Dancing starling spectacle caused power cuts in Scottish village

`` For all the birds looked small , the sheer number of them caused the wires to bounce up and @ @ @ @ @ and off - there 's actually three wires between those poles and when they clash @ @ @ @ @ go off for around 10 seconds or so at a time .

"For all the birds looked small, the sheer number of them caused the wires to bounce up and down as they danced on and off - there's actually three wires between those poles and when they clash together, the power will go off for around 10 seconds or so at a time.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Brexit: What does it mean for security in the UK?

Some nations , like the USA , have an `` associate '' relationship with Europol - but ca n't use @ @ @ @ @ and have no say over its objectives and priorities .
The UK faces similar questions @ @ @ @ @ second agency , Eurojust , which predominantly links up prosecutors .

Some nations, like the USA, have an "associate" relationship with Europol - but can't use all its investigatory powers, and have no say over its objectives and priorities. The UK faces similar questions over its relationship to a second agency, Eurojust, which predominantly links up prosecutors.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Brexit: Suffolk pupils have questions over life outside the EU

Deadlines , support for families with lower incomes and the effect on businesses - all Brexit questions that our panel @ @ @ @ @ the answers to .
The UK and EU have agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade @ @ @ @ @ leaders on Sunday .
The two sides are attempting to secure a deal before the @ @ @ @ @ 31 December .
Pupils at Westbourne Academy in Ipswich had some questions for BBC political @ @ @ @ @ BBC News : East of England on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter .
If you @ @ @ @ @ eastofenglandnews @ bbc.co.uk

Deadlines, support for families with lower incomes and the effect on businesses - all Brexit questions that our panel of students wanted to know the answers to.
The UK and EU have agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade talks after a call between leaders on Sunday.
The two sides are attempting to secure a deal before the so-called transition period ends on 31 December.
Pupils at Westbourne Academy in Ipswich had some questions for BBC political correspondent Andrew Sinclair.
Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Newspaper headlines: Boris Johnson's 'stark warning' for merry 'little' Christmas

The Telegraph thinks the latest approach is `` rational '' and helps `` puncture '' some of the hysteria around @ @ @ @ @ urges that personal responsibility for coronavirus matters should be `` for life , not just @ @ @ @

The Telegraph thinks the latest approach is "rational" and helps "puncture" some of the hysteria around the matter - but it urges that personal responsibility for coronavirus matters should be "for life, not just for Christmas".


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Covid-19: 'Nightmare six weeks' ahead for NI health service

`` I 'm really annoyed about the position that the staff in NI have been put under - they 're @ @ @ @ @ are now going to have to make choices they should not have to make in @ @ @ @ @ he added .

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bbcuk--2020-12-17--Covid in Wales: How many deaths have there been?

Those ONS figures - which are higher - also count both confirmed and suspected cases of Covid , as well @ @ @ @ @ , including care homes , hospices and people 's own homes .
The most recent @ @ @ @ @ since May .

If you would like to pay tribute to someone you have lost, please fill in the form below. We would like to respond to everyone individually and include all of your tributes in our coverage, but unfortunately that may not always be possible. Please be assured your message will be read and treated with the utmost respect, and your words and tributes will be used with your name and location where possible.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Seal pup found at Cornish bus stop in stormy weather

A spokesman for the Cornish Seal Sanctuary advised anyone who sees a seal in difficulty not to go near it @ @ @ @ @ to move or feed it , but should instead call the charity to let them @ @

A spokesman for the Cornish Seal Sanctuary advised anyone who sees a seal in difficulty not to go near it, touch it or try to move or feed it, but should instead call the charity to let them know.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Covid: Toughest rules extended in south of England

If you are reading this page and ca n't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version @ @ @ @ @ submit your question or comment or you can email us at HaveYourSay @ bbc.co.uk .
@ @ @ @ @ age and location with any submission .

If you are reading this page and can't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version of the BBC website to submit your question or comment or you can email us at HaveYourSay@bbc.co.uk. Please include your name, age and location with any submission.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Long Covid: Hospital patients to get checks at six weeks

`` This [ guidance ] could help to relieve anxiety when people do not recover in the way they expect @ @ @ @ @ fluctuate and there are so many different symptoms reported , '' said Dr Chrisp , @ @ @ @ @ Guidelines at NICE .

"This [guidance] could help to relieve anxiety when people do not recover in the way they expect, particularly because symptoms can fluctuate and there are so many different symptoms reported," said Dr Chrisp, director of the Centre for Guidelines at NICE.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Brexit: Trade talks in 'a serious situation' says Boris Johnson

`` On fisheries he stressed that the UK could not accept a situation where it was the only sovereign country @ @ @ @ @ be able to control access to its own waters for an extended period and to @ @ @ @ @ which hugely disadvantaged its own industry .

"On fisheries he stressed that the UK could not accept a situation where it was the only sovereign country in the world not to be able to control access to its own waters for an extended period and to be faced with fisheries quotas which hugely disadvantaged its own industry.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Electric cars will leave hole in tax revenues, says Treasury

It says : `` Overall , in the context of the rest of the world decarbonising , the net impact @ @ @ @ @ to 2050 is likely to be small compared to total growth over that period .

It says: "Overall, in the context of the rest of the world decarbonising, the net impact of the transition on growth to 2050 is likely to be small compared to total growth over that period.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Star Wars' Boba Fett actor Jeremy Bulloch dies aged 75

Jeremy Bulloch was the quintessential English gentleman .
A fine actor , delightful company & so kind to everyone lucky @ @ @ @ @ with him .
I will deeply miss him & am so grateful to have known @ @ @ @ @ pic.twitter.com/SMvjtQsSwZ


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Tory MP Tobias Ellwood broke Covid rules, says home secretary

Asked if there should be a punishment , Ms Patel said : `` There are fixed penalty notices .
I @ @ @ @ @ as to where this happened or the location , but I 'm sure , as @ @ @ @ @ that will be followed up . ''

Asked if there should be a punishment, Ms Patel said: "There are fixed penalty notices. I don't know the details as to where this happened or the location, but I'm sure, as it is a breach, that will be followed up."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Chipping Barnet shop reveals medieval surprise

Historic England commissioned the Institute of Archaeology at University College London ( UCL ) to analyse samples of the timbers @ @ @ @ @ the oldest ones were from trees that had been felled between 1330 and 1362 .
@ @ @ @ @ Barnet was a market town in Hertfordshire .

Historic England commissioned the Institute of Archaeology at University College London (UCL) to analyse samples of the timbers and it was found that the oldest ones were from trees that had been felled between 1330 and 1362. At that time, Chipping Barnet was a market town in Hertfordshire.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Coronavirus: NI facing six-week lockdown from 26 December

`` The sector now needs urgent financial assistance at the right level to offset previous debts rung up in the @ @ @ @ @ and make sure that it is covered during this lockdown which will take weeks , @ @ @ @ @ see out , '' he said .

"The sector now needs urgent financial assistance at the right level to offset previous debts rung up in the race to be Covid secure and make sure that it is covered during this lockdown which will take weeks, if not months, to see out," he said.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Jacob Rees-Mogg accuses Unicef of 'playing politics' over UK food campaign

`` I think it is a real scandal that Unicef should be playing politics in this way when it is @ @ @ @ @ people in the poorest , the most deprived , countries of the world where people @ @ @ @ @ are famines and where there are civil wars , and they make cheap political points @ @ @ @ @ , l think , £25,000 to one council , '' he said .

"I think it is a real scandal that Unicef should be playing politics in this way when it is meant to be looking after people in the poorest, the most deprived, countries of the world where people are starving, where there are famines and where there are civil wars, and they make cheap political points of this kind, giving, l think, £25,000 to one council," he said.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Rishi Sunak extends furlough scheme for another month

The extension of the furlough scheme into April will help some firms - but only to pay wages .
Firms @ @ @ @ @ pay rent , suppliers and energy bills .
The Bank of England estimated last week @ @ @ @ @ a whole has £180bn less cash coming in this financial year than it needs to @ @ @

The extension of the furlough scheme into April will help some firms - but only to pay wages. Firms urgently need further cash to pay rent, suppliers and energy bills. The Bank of England estimated last week that the private sector as a whole has £180bn less cash coming in this financial year than it needs to cover costs.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Covid: 11,000 positive tests delayed in Welsh figures

`` This was not an unplanned activity .
We knew it was going to have an impact , therefore we @ @ @ @ @ happened and while it was happening and even after it had happened , to say @ @ @ @ @ results . ''

"This was not an unplanned activity. We knew it was going to have an impact, therefore we constantly communicated before it actually happened and while it was happening and even after it had happened, to say that this is affecting the results."


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Dominic Cummings: Politicians too focused on Twitter and gossip

The satellite system suggested that the US had launched a nuclear-armed missile strike , but Mr Petrov decided it was @ @ @ @ @ not to inform his superiors , thereby preventing a retaliatory attack .

"In Britain parts of the nuclear enterprise have rotted from years of neglect, though thankfully the new cabinet secretary knows and cares and is acting to remedy this.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Coronavirus and Christmas: 'I can't wait to see my grandkids'

The news the restrictions would be relaxed for Christmas buoyed her immensely .
Anna-Marie phoned her mum as soon as @ @ @ @ @ it got announced I was dreading Christmas , but [ then ] I was like @ @ @ @ @ people ' .
We were all over the moon and hyperactive .
It was so @ @ @ @ @ all for them to come over . ''

The news the restrictions would be relaxed for Christmas buoyed her immensely. Anna-Marie phoned her mum as soon as she heard. "Before it got announced I was dreading Christmas, but [then] I was like 'Yes, we can see people'. We were all over the moon and hyperactive. It was so much fun, planning it all for them to come over."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Tougher restrictions begin for three Scottish councils

He added : `` We 'll have to look at what the forward prospects look like , we 'll have @ @ @ @ @ be sustainable for a period into January and February to protect the public interest and @ @ @ @ @ . ''

"But it is not possible in the way that this virus operates, and the importance of looking really closely and carefully at the information we have and then using that to reach the best judgements we can make, for us to be able to do that at this point."


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Lockdown rules: What Covid tier is your area in and what are the restrictions?

More parts of east and south-east England are to be put under the highest level of restrictions in the three-tier @ @ @ @ @ , two parts of the country are moving down a tier .

Find out how the pandemic has affected your area and how it compares with the national average by following this link to an in depth guide to the numbers involved.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid: How schools managed to save the Christmas nativity

`` The Christmas story is so important to the community , '' she said .
`` Seeing children in tinsel @ @ @ @ @ , and we ca n't do that , so we 've decided to make a @ @ @ @ @ noted that many of the traditional elements have been retained .
`` We have little @ @ @ @ @ down across the fells in their angel outfits , which is absolutely gorgeous . ''

"We've missed out on being able to see them performing, but on the screen in the classroom it's as if we've been there. Every morning the school will open the advent and see what the other children have been doing. From thinking that we wouldn't be able to do anything then doing this, every day from 1 December has been a real community spirit."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--'Why I'm renting a Christmas tree'

'Why I'm renting a Christmas tree'

Mrs Westlake said : `` We were aware so many trees get cut down for Christmas then just left to @ @ @ @ @ and this is putting something back . ''

Customers receive guidance from the farmers about how to keep their tree healthy while inside, including not having it in the house for longer than three weeks to prevent it drying out.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Air pollution death ruling: What comes next?

Asked whether this verdict only be relevant to people with asthma as unusually severe as Ella 's , Prof Jonathan @ @ @ @ @ expert witnesses in the case , said : `` The evidence is n't that ... @ @ @ @ @ know about asthma attacks , asthma deaths , causation of asthma , is for the @ @ @ @ @ You do n't have to have this particular variant .
It shows that small changes @ @ @ @ @ ''

Asked whether this verdict only be relevant to people with asthma as unusually severe as Ella's, Prof Jonathan Grigg, another of the expert witnesses in the case, said: "The evidence isn't that... actually, the evidence we know about asthma attacks, asthma deaths, causation of asthma, is for the whole mix of asthmas. You don't have to have this particular variant. It shows that small changes have this avalanche effect."


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Unicef should be 'ashamed' of itself, says Jacob Rees-Mogg

Jacob Rees-Mogg says humanitarian aid organisation Unicef is `` playing politics '' by delivering breakfast boxes to some children in @ @ @ @ @ period .
The leader of the House of Commons said the move by the organisation @ @ @ @ @ of the lowest order '' when it was raised during business questions .

Jacob Rees-Mogg says humanitarian aid organisation Unicef is "playing politics" by delivering breakfast boxes to some children in the UK over the Christmas period.
The leader of the House of Commons said the move by the organisation was "a political stunt of the lowest order" when it was raised during business questions.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Ryan and Gary's story

Ryan and Gary's story

BBC journalist Emma Clifford Bell grew up in Drumchapel , Scotland , and has been back to talk to some @ @ @ @ @ lockdown has impacted their lives .
She spoke to Ryan and Gary , who have @ @ @ @ @ health , to see how they have coped with the pandemic .
This is one @ @ @ @ @ BBC series called Our Lives – that tells stories from parts of the UK that @ @ @ @ @ .
More in the Our Lives series

BBC journalist Emma Clifford Bell grew up in Drumchapel, Scotland, and has been back to talk to some of the community about how lockdown has impacted their lives.
She spoke to Ryan and Gary, who have both struggled with their mental health, to see how they have coped with the pandemic.
This is one of the films in a BBC series called Our Lives – that tells stories from parts of the UK that sometimes fall under the radar.
Film by Emma Clifford Bell, Chas Ross and Tamsin Selbie.
More in the Our Lives series


bbcuk--2020-12-17--The Papers: 'Bleakest midwinter' as Covid tiers extended

© 2020 BBC .
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites .
Read about our approach @ @ @ @

Elsewhere, the Scottish edition of the Daily Mail leads with the headline "Nightmare After Christmas", saying First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is to meet her cabinet to discuss whether more areas should be moved into the highest tier of restrictions.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Marcin Zdun guilty of murdering wife and daughter

The 40-year-old supermarket worker had become convinced his wife and daughter had become sexually involved with a man from his @ @ @ @ @ the way he had looked at him .

The 40-year-old supermarket worker had become convinced his wife and daughter had become sexually involved with a man from his workplace, simply because of the way he had looked at him.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Seven things Covid can't stop you doing this Christmas

Although many of the traditional activities we take for granted any other year are out of the question , there is still some Christmas magic to be found .
With less than a fortnight to go , there are still some things you can do with your family .
1 .
You ca n't visit Santa 's grotto ... but Santa can come to you There 's no sitting on Santa 's knee and whispering your list of demands in his ear this year , but there are some ways little believers can get their all-important lists to him .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ attractions across the country .
At Blair Drummond Safari Park in Stirling , the man in the red suit will pass by on his sleigh three times a day .
And at Eden Mill Farm in Blanefield , Glasgow , you drive past Santa in his grotto and stop for a Covid-safe chat through the car window .
Joyce Rhoddan took her son Finlay , four , and daughter Sarah , six .
She wanted to give them some normality at Christmas and this was as close to a Santa visit as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were able to interact with Santa but it also enabled us to be socially distanced .
Finlay and Sarah 's faces were a picture and it made us realise we did the right thing . ''
Santa 's woodland experience in the village of Balfron has created Santa @ home for 2020 .
Instead of a wander through the woods to find Santa 's cabin , Santa visits children in their own living rooms via a personalised video message and a gift he sends ahead .
2 .
Elf on a shelf and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been busier than ever at this time of year .
A cheeky duo called Jingle and Bells have been taking their mischief out to the children of Central Scotland since level four restrictions were lifted .
The idea was the brainchild of West End actress Lorraine Graham and fellow actress Martine McMenemy .
The pair worked in shows such as Still Game and the Steamie and would normally be in panto or a Christmas show at this time of year .
Lorraine said : `` It has been a really bad year for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do .
We thought of Christmas and decided if people ca n't come to a show , we will take it to them . ''
After level four restrictions were lifted , the pair performed their first weekend of live appearances on the doorsteps and gardens of children across the west of Scotland .
Lorraine ( Jingle ) said : `` We have more than 100 visits booked - and we are also going to nurseries .
It 's a privilege to bring some magic to these children .
Some have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's wonderful to go to their homes and bring Christmas to them . ''
In recent years , the market - run by Underbelly - has been worth more than £110m to the Christmas festival in the city and last year , 2.6 million people visited the market in Princes Street Gardens .
4 .
You ca n't go to the panto ( oh yes you can ) Nothing says Christmas like pantomime .
The annual trip to the theatre to shout at the cast and try to catch flying sweeties can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But the show must go on and it has for many established theatre groups .
`` It 's just before 14:00 on a Saturday afternoon , and I have the best seat in the house for Perth Theatre 's 2020 pantomime .
Guaranteeing the best seat is the house is easy since it 's MY house .
Like everything else in Scottish theatre this year , the show is online .
`` Settled on my sofa , as instructed , with favourite snacks and a torch by my side ( all will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fills up with folk , and suddenly the foyer of Perth Theatre , with its splendid towering Christmas tree , appears onscreen .
`` Audience interaction is complicated - but as such a huge part of panto is worth persevering with .
Many of the 70 folk logged on to Saturday 's matinee are family groups , who happily agree to unmute to hiss and boo , or chorus `` oh yes , we do '' !
`` Even sitting at home , on my own , it 's hard not to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people in full panto spirit .
`` Panto always looks so simple - but the huge cast credit list which runs onstage at the end - shows it is anything but .
And Perth is just one of a number of theatres where the show will go on this Christmas .
5 .
The 2020 nativity : Mary , Joseph , three wise men and an ipad It is the earliest school memory for many children and no Christmas with a primary schooler would be the same without the nativity .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school hall parading of shepherds , donkeys and angels .
The story has n't changed , but how they tell it has .
Teacher Matthew Wilkin said : `` It has forced us to think outside the box and be more creative .
So we 've been looking at doing our Christmas assembly and nativity digitally this year - all being filmed with sound editing , video editing , green screen .
The children are still getting a chance to perform .
Just not to a live audience . ''
Mr Wilkin said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas can be for young children .
It is a big part of going through school and we did n't want the children to miss out and the parents to miss out on seeing them perform . ''
7 .
Hark !
The herald angels sing , but we are not allowed One of the biggest disappointments of Christmas 2020 must be the recommendation to limit singing .
And combined with social distancing requirements and no social gatherings of big groups , this has ruled out carol concerts , Christmas shows and carol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keeping the sound of Christmas alive for those they support and those who support them .
Maggie 's Centres staged a star-studded Carols on your couch concert in early December which included a performance from panto legends Grant Storr and Andy Gray and the St. Mary 's Cathedral choir .
They have an online `` Carols from the kitchen '' stream which is available to watch until midnight on Christmas Eve .
Hosted by BBC presenter Fiona Bruce , it has appearances from actors Dominic West and Stanley Tucci , a performance from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choir .

Seven things Covid can't stop you doing this Christmas Published 18 December 2020
Image source, Joyce Rhodden Image caption, Finlay loved his drive-by Santa visit
No visits to Santa, no parties, no carol singing.
The Covid-19 pandemic has stopped a lot of the usual Christmas build-up activities from taking place.
Although many of the traditional activities we take for granted any other year are out of the question, there is still some Christmas magic to be found.
With less than a fortnight to go, there are still some things you can do with your family.
1. You can't visit Santa's grotto... but Santa can come to you
Image source, Joyce Rhoddan Image caption, The smile on Sarah's face shows how well the drive-by Santa was received
There's no sitting on Santa's knee and whispering your list of demands in his ear this year, but there are some ways little believers can get their all-important lists to him.
Like all of us, Santa has had to adapt for Christmas 2020.
Drive-by Santas can be found at various attractions across the country. At Blair Drummond Safari Park in Stirling, the man in the red suit will pass by on his sleigh three times a day. And at Eden Mill Farm in Blanefield, Glasgow, you drive past Santa in his grotto and stop for a Covid-safe chat through the car window.
Joyce Rhoddan took her son Finlay, four, and daughter Sarah, six. She wanted to give them some normality at Christmas and this was as close to a Santa visit as possible.
She said: "The kids were able to interact with Santa but it also enabled us to be socially distanced. Finlay and Sarah's faces were a picture and it made us realise we did the right thing."
Santa's woodland experience in the village of Balfron has created Santa@home for 2020. Instead of a wander through the woods to find Santa's cabin, Santa visits children in their own living rooms via a personalised video message and a gift he sends ahead.
2. Elf on a shelf and also on your doorstep
Image source, Jingle and Bells Image caption, Jingle and Bells, actresses Lorraine Graham and Martine McMenemy, are taking the fun to the doorstep
Elves have also been busier than ever at this time of year. A cheeky duo called Jingle and Bells have been taking their mischief out to the children of Central Scotland since level four restrictions were lifted.
The idea was the brainchild of West End actress Lorraine Graham and fellow actress Martine McMenemy. The pair worked in shows such as Still Game and the Steamie and would normally be in panto or a Christmas show at this time of year.
Lorraine said: "It has been a really bad year for the arts and we were thinking what to do. We thought of Christmas and decided if people can't come to a show, we will take it to them."
After level four restrictions were lifted, the pair performed their first weekend of live appearances on the doorsteps and gardens of children across the west of Scotland.
They get a 15-minute song and dance show personalised to them, with games and goodie bags thrown in.
Lorraine (Jingle) said: "We have more than 100 visits booked - and we are also going to nurseries. It's a privilege to bring some magic to these children. Some have been shielding and some have been unwell so it's wonderful to go to their homes and bring Christmas to them."
3. Christmas markets go virtual
Image source, Underbelly Image caption, No events that would attract a gathering or crowd will take place this year
There's no smell of German Bratwurst or mulled wine and cinnamon coffees, but you can still peruse beautiful one-of-a-kind gifts and crafts and support local sellers from your couch.
Edinburgh's Christmas market - Scotland's largest - was cancelled in October alongside all the capital's Christmas events.
In recent years, the market - run by Underbelly - has been worth more than £110m to the Christmas festival in the city and last year, 2.6 million people visited the market in Princes Street Gardens.
As Edinburgh's Christmas went online, the new Christmas Neighbourhood Market was created, to shine a spotlight on the wealth of products and produce in Edinburgh and encourage residents to shop locally.
It's an idea that was replicated across Scotland to give a boost to local small businesses enduring a very tough year, with bigger countrywide market pages such as Scotland's Online Christmas Market and Scotland's Virtual Christmas Market.
4. You can't go to the panto (oh yes you can)
Image source, Fraser Band/Horsecross Image caption, Perth Theatre pantomime performances are live but streamed online
Nothing says Christmas like pantomime. The annual trip to the theatre to shout at the cast and try to catch flying sweeties cannot happen in our current Covid world. But the show must go on and it has for many established theatre groups.
BBC News Arts correspondent Pauline McLean has been enjoying the panto experience 2020 has brought us.
"It's just before 14:00 on a Saturday afternoon, and I have the best seat in the house for Perth Theatre's 2020 pantomime. Guaranteeing the best seat is the house is easy since it's MY house. Like everything else in Scottish theatre this year, the show is online.
"Settled on my sofa, as instructed, with favourite snacks and a torch by my side (all will be revealed later) the virtual auditorium fills up with folk, and suddenly the foyer of Perth Theatre, with its splendid towering Christmas tree, appears onscreen.
"And almost like the real thing, the orchestra (recorded) kicks in and the show begins.
"Audience interaction is complicated - but as such a huge part of panto is worth persevering with. Many of the 70 folk logged on to Saturday's matinee are family groups, who happily agree to unmute to hiss and boo, or chorus "oh yes, we do"!
"Even sitting at home, on my own, it's hard not to be drawn into the online camaraderie of scores of people in full panto spirit.
Image source, fraser band/Horsecross Image caption, Oh Yes We Are! has won five-star reviews and the New York Times has asked to review the show
"Panto always looks so simple - but the huge cast credit list which runs onstage at the end - shows it is anything but. And Perth is just one of a number of theatres where the show will go on this Christmas.
"Thank you everyone for just being there", is one of the final lines.
"If you're a fan of panto, or any kind of live theatre, let them know you're there."
If you want to see a panto show, many of the normal productions have transformed into recorded shows or live streaming. Check your local theatre for details.
5. The 2020 nativity: Mary, Joseph, three wise men and an ipad
Image caption, Matthew Wilkin and the children of Stanley Primary in Ardrossan have been working hard on their virtual nativity
It is the earliest school memory for many children and no Christmas with a primary schooler would be the same without the nativity.
But the wise men have ruled against the school hall parading of shepherds, donkeys and angels. The story hasn't changed, but how they tell it has.
Like most schools, Stanley Primary in Ardrossan has used video technology to ensure pupils and parents don't miss out.
Teacher Matthew Wilkin said: "It has forced us to think outside the box and be more creative. So we've been looking at doing our Christmas assembly and nativity digitally this year - all being filmed with sound editing, video editing, green screen. The children are still getting a chance to perform. Just not to a live audience."
Image caption, Teachers have become film producers as they try to bring performances to the parents who cannot come into the schools
The 2020 nativity involves children rehearsing in small bubbles, singing outside, if at all, or using sign language instead of their voices.
Mr Wilkin said: "We sometimes forget how magical Christmas can be for young children. It is a big part of going through school and we didn't want the children to miss out and the parents to miss out on seeing them perform."
6. Spot the reindeer / Christmas lights / elves
Image source, RSPB Image caption, Spot the RSPB reindeer at their Lochwinnoch reserve
Local communities, unable to host lights switch-on events or festive fun activities have organised spotting games in their areas.
In Clarkston, local business group I love Clarkston have created the Christmas Spirit trail where people collect clues from local businesses in a bid to find Santa's missing brother Albert Claus.
A similar idea to find elves is ongoing in neighbouring East Kilbride, getting children and adults outside and getting exercise.
At the RSPB in Lochwinnoch, Santa's reindeer hunt takes place until new year. The wooden reindeer are hidden in the Aird meadow trail and children are given information sheets to help spot them.
7. Hark! The herald angels sing, but we are not allowed
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The Scottish government has said that carol singing should probably not take place this year
One of the biggest disappointments of Christmas 2020 must be the recommendation to limit singing. And combined with social distancing requirements and no social gatherings of big groups, this has ruled out carol concerts, Christmas shows and carol singing for most.
What is Christmas without singing? Again, online magic has come to the rescue.
Charities have been keeping the sound of Christmas alive for those they support and those who support them. Maggie's Centres staged a star-studded Carols on your couch concert in early December which included a performance from panto legends Grant Stott and Andy Gray and the St. Mary's Cathedral choir.
They have an online "Carols from the kitchen" stream which is available to watch until midnight on Christmas Eve. Hosted by BBC presenter Fiona Bruce, it has appearances from actors Dominic West and Stanley Tucci, a performance from Lulu and carols from the London Oriana choir.


bbcuk--2020-12-17--Covid-19: NI business leaders react to lockdown plan

He said : `` We do not welcome it , nor do we want it , but we support the @ @ @ @ @ under control and get the hospitality sector back on its feet again as quickly as @ @

He said: "We do not welcome it, nor do we want it, but we support the decision to get the virus under control and get the hospitality sector back on its feet again as quickly as possible.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid: Child abuse referrals up nearly 80%, says NSPCC

`` There is also an excess of bin bags all ripped in the back garden .
I only noticed this @ @ @ @ @ was emanating from it .
It makes me sad and upset seeing the boy treated @ @ @ @

"It was published in 2019 and actions are to be completed by 31 December 2021. The existing plan sets out the next steps which would then be taken, including considering evidence from a review of its implementation, in consultation with stakeholders, to decide on next steps."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid: Millions prepare for tougher restrictions amid rising cases

If you are reading this page and ca n't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version @ @ @ @ @ submit your question or comment or you can email us at HaveYourSay @ bbc.co.uk .
@ @ @ @ @ age and location with any submission .

Asked whether England would end up following Northern Ireland and Wales into lockdown, Mr Johnson said: "Obviously we are hoping very much that we'll be able to avoid anything like that, but the reality is that the rates of infection have increased very much in the last few weeks."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Head teachers 'broken' by England's late Covid test plan

`` We have to keep our vulnerable children safe and make sure we accommodate our key worker children , but @ @ @ @ @ the staffing to run a key workers ' school as well as have all of @ @ @ @ @ lessons . ''

He said the programme would be a national effort supported by the Ministry of Defence and that schools would have the costs of agency staff covered - but it was not clear whether these staff would be health professionals or supply teachers.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Greater Manchester Police failings: Andy Burnham 'should resign'

`` His role ultimately is to ensure that GMP is delivering .
He is in a position if he does @ @ @ @ @ and is delivering then he can challenge and if necessary he can sack the chief @ @ @ @ @ said .

"I would like to say sorry to all of the victims of crime who have found that the service has not been good enough. We owe it to them to improve and we will and we will do it fast," he said.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Ofcom unveils new rules to protect people taking part in TV shows

It added : `` Broadcasters will need to take due care where , for example , a programme is likely @ @ @ @ @ of media or social media interest ; the programme features conflict or emotionally-challenging situations ; @ @ @ @ @ to disclose life-changing or private aspects of their lives . ''

It added: "Broadcasters will need to take due care where, for example, a programme is likely to attract a high level of media or social media interest; the programme features conflict or emotionally-challenging situations; or it requires a person to disclose life-changing or private aspects of their lives."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Property site listings exclude renters on benefits

`` As soon as I tell the letting agents that I 'm not able to work as I 'm disabled @ @ @ @ @ hear back from them at all or I phone them up and they tell me @ @ @ @ @ speak to is n't available , '' he said .

Zoopla said: "While we are happy that the BBC's research showed over 99% of our listings are compliant we recognise even one listing with discriminatory wording is too much. We are constantly updating our systems to ensure any attempts by agents to circumvent our rules are caught and, while we have made strong progress on this, the process is ongoing.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--'Just a few hours' left to agree Brexit trade deal, says Michel Barnier

And on the level playing field , he said there needed to be `` fair competition '' in place , @ @ @ @ @ sovereign United Kingdom would like to depart from those standards , that is their right @ @ @ @ @ it consequences when it comes to access to our markets without tariffs or quotas .
@

Although the majority of EU members are not coastal nations, and although everyone in the bloc would love to finally put this deal to bed - for political and financial reasons, as well as being plain fed up with the process - the EU as a whole won't try to force member states to sign up if they are unhappy.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Grace Millane murder: Killer loses conviction appeal bid

The Court of Appeal in New Zealand found on Friday that the murder was `` committed with a high degree @ @ @ @ @ to Miss Millane 's killer failing `` to call for assistance , searching on the @ @ @ @ @ disposal ... taking steps preparatory to disposing of the body and going on another date @ @ @ @ @ remained in his room '' .

The Court of Appeal in New Zealand found on Friday that the murder was "committed with a high degree of callousness", due to Miss Millane's killer failing "to call for assistance, searching on the internet for methods of body disposal ... taking steps preparatory to disposing of the body and going on another date while Miss Millane's body remained in his room".


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Margaret Thatcher Grantham statue: Council to review £100k launch

`` There is no clear outline business plan explaining how third-party funding will be acquired , let alone why the @ @ @ @ @ responsibility for the fundraising . ''

"There is no clear outline business plan explaining how third-party funding will be acquired, let alone why the council has somehow taken on responsibility for the fundraising."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Trapped Cornwall beach walkers found by phone torch lights

Looe RNLI said its two inshore lifeboats arrived in 30 knot ( 34mph ) winds as the light was fading @ @ @ @ @ to spot the walkers from the lights on their mobile phone torches .

Looe RNLI said its two inshore lifeboats arrived in 30 knot (34mph) winds as the light was fading but its crew were able to spot the walkers from the lights on their mobile phone torches.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--RNLI sells two Ferraris to buy Pwllheli lifeboat station

`` I find it remarkable and very humbling that a gentleman who had no seafaring connection should have the desire @ @ @ @ @ the sale of his treasured cars , and that we should now benefit at Pwllheli @ @ @ @ @ generosity . ''

"I find it remarkable and very humbling that a gentleman who had no seafaring connection should have the desire to support the RNLI through the sale of his treasured cars, and that we should now benefit at Pwllheli as a consequence of his generosity."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid: 'I worked on Priscilla - now I'm a bin man'

In the UK , 6.1 % of employed people changed their occupation in the first half of this year , @ @ @ @ @ the same period last year , according to figures from the Office for National Statistics @

Tumi now does takeaway from home, selling through his social media accounts, and cooks at food markets and other events. He is also moving into new premises in the new year to expand his business. When lockdown ends he hopes to continue cooking and start playing live music again.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Coronavirus and Christmas: Relief for family trapped in city of eternal lockdown

The news the restrictions would be relaxed for Christmas buoyed her immensely .
Anna-Marie phoned her mum as soon as @ @ @ @ @ it got announced I was dreading Christmas , but [ then ] I was like @ @ @ @ @ people ' .
We were all over the moon and hyperactive .
It was so @ @ @ @ @ all for them to come over . ''

The news the restrictions would be relaxed for Christmas buoyed her immensely. Anna-Marie phoned her mum as soon as she heard. "Before it got announced I was dreading Christmas, but [then] I was like 'Yes, we can see people'. We were all over the moon and hyperactive. It was so much fun, planning it all for them to come over."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid in Scotland: Half a million Scots set for tougher restrictions

He said : `` I think if we continue on the current course that we have high levels of cases @ @ @ @ @ and then we have a relaxation over Christmas , we 're looking at a spike @ @ @ @ @ .

"But it is not possible in the way that this virus operates, and the importance of looking really closely and carefully at the information we have and then using that to reach the best judgements we can make, for us to be able to do that at this point."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Lockdown rules: What Covid tier is your area in and what are the restrictions?

Find out how the pandemic has affected your area and how it compares with the national average by following this @ @ @ @ @ guide to the numbers involved .

Find out how the pandemic has affected your area and how it compares with the national average by following this link to an in depth guide to the numbers involved.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid: What are the new tiers and lockdown rules in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?

All areas have been placed in one of three tiers : medium , high and very high .
About 99 @ @ @ @ @ in tiers two and three .
Bristol and North East Somerset will move from tier @ @ @ @ @ while Herefordshire will move from tier two to tier one .
How were the tiers @ @ @ @ @ rules for the UK at Christmas ?
From 23-27 December ( 22-28 December in Northern @ @ @ @ @ ) three households will be able to form a `` Christmas bubble '' which can @ @ @ @ @ .
However , the Welsh government is changing the law in Wales to say that @ @ @ @ @ an additional single-person household - will be able to meet .
And Scotland 's First @ @ @ @ @ `` strong recommendation '' was that people should , if they can , spend Christmas @ @ @ @ @ with your own household '' .
What are the rules in Wales ?

If you test positive for Covid you are no longer legally required to self-isolate, but you are advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others for at least five full days.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Quiz of the Year, part one: Can you even remember January?

How well do you remember the stories and people in the news this year ?

Quiz of the Year 2020 - Part One Fifty-two weeks, 52 questions. How many can you get?
2020 started as it was to go on. On 1 January, the World Health Organization (WHO) put itself on an emergency footing to deal with a potential outbreak of what proved to be the coronavirus, in Wuhan, China. But when did it say there was a pandemic?
One of the few major sporting events to go ahead as normal was the Australian Open tennis. Packed crowds at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena saw Serbia's Novak Djokovic win a record eighth title. But who won the women's singles event?
Tributes were paid to Monty Python actor and director Terry Jones, who died at the age of 77. He was credited with some of the group's funniest lines. But which of the following was not his?
Billie Eilish was the big hit at the Grammy Awards, becoming the youngest winner in all four main categories. But which singer was mistaken for one of the members of the public used to fill seats when invited guests are absent?
The UK left the European Union on 31 January, a date marked both by "Brexit parties" and candlelit vigils. Symbolic changes included the reintroduction of blue passports and a newly minted 50p piece. But what was the latter's inscription?
A dramatic year in US politics saw House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tear up President Donald Trump's State of the Union address, a day before the Senate cleared him of abuse of power, in an impeachment trial. But which Republican voted with the Democrats to convict?
Christina Koch touched down on Earth after 328 days on the International Space Station, having set a record for the longest spaceflight by a woman. But which other record is hers?
Among the tributes to basketball great Kobe Bryant, who was killed alongside daughter Gianna, 13, and seven others in a helicopter crash, was this outfit worn at the Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles. But who wore it?
A British Airways Boeing 747, like the one above, was said to have made the fastest subsonic New York-to-London journey. But what was the name of the storm that helped it beat the five-hour mark?
East Africa was hit by its worst locust invasion for 25 years. And it wasn't the only region affected. But when Pakistan declared an emergency caused by the insects, what did China reportedly offer to send to help tackle the swarms?
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back from royal engagements and said they would become financially independent. But Prince Harry didn't finish duties as a working royal before recording a charity record with which singer?
The sight of football being played in empty stadiums has become commonplace, as coronavirus restrictions across the world prevent fans attending. But who contested the last match in England's Premier League played in front of fans?
On 30 March, thieves stole the painting Spring Garden - or Parsonage Garden in Nuenen in the Spring - from the Singer Laren Museum, in the Netherlands. Some estimates put its value at up to £5m. But who painted it?
Shoddy work 13 - Work of art; 9-12 - Work in progress; 5-8 - Workaday; 0-4 - Shoddy work
Workaday 13 - Work of art; 9-12 - Work in progress ; 5-8 - Workaday; 0-4 - Shoddy work
Work in progress 13 - Work of art; 9-12 - Work in progress; 5-8 - Workaday; 0-4 - Shoddy work


bbcuk--2020-12-18--London's Bow Street Police Station to be turned into museum

The new museum will examine the work of the Bow Street Runners , while also sharing the stories of the @ @ @ @ @ building and those who faced its judges .

The new museum will examine the work of the Bow Street Runners, while also sharing the stories of the people who worked in the building and those who faced its judges.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--The Papers: 'Bleakest midwinter' as Covid tiers extended

Elsewhere , the Scottish edition of the Daily Mail leads with the headline `` Nightmare After Christmas '' , saying @ @ @ @ @ to meet her cabinet to discuss whether more areas should be moved into the highest @ @ @ @

Elsewhere, the Scottish edition of the Daily Mail leads with the headline "Nightmare After Christmas", saying First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is to meet her cabinet to discuss whether more areas should be moved into the highest tier of restrictions.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Workers 'sleeping on mattresses' inside Leicester factory

`` There are more factories paying the minimum wage , [ and ] we know particularly now that as we @ @ @ @ @ , including executing warrants , that that will also cause factory owners who are n't @ @ @ @ @ the conditions that they 're subjecting their workers to , '' he said .

"There are more factories paying the minimum wage, [and] we know particularly now that as we've moved to different tactics, including executing warrants, that that will also cause factory owners who aren't compliant to think twice about the conditions that they're subjecting their workers to," he said.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Northern Ireland set for six-week lockdown after Christmas

He added : `` There is no doubt that if you allow the epidemic to proceed in an uncontrolled way @ @ @ @ @ they choose to live their lives completely as normal with a dangerous virus in circulation @ @ @ @ @ be very severe consequences and many , many deaths . ''

The changes mean Boxing Day and new year's celebrations are going to be nothing like what we've ever had before - the initial measures in the first week of lockdown are an attempt to clamp down on house parties and suppress the virus.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Cwm Taf health board ICU 'full with Covid patients'

`` When I see our hospitals under the pressure they 're under , the difficulties that are going to be @ @ @ @ @ serve by the decisions made , then I think it 's as much making that @ @ @ @ @ own actions make as we prepare for Christmas , '' he said .

"When I see our hospitals under the pressure they're under, the difficulties that are going to be caused to the population we serve by the decisions made, then I think it's as much making that personal link between what our own actions make as we prepare for Christmas," he said.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid: Boris Johnson 'hoping to avoid' national lockdown

Asked whether England would end up following Northern Ireland and Wales into lockdown , Mr Johnson said : `` Obviously @ @ @ @ @ that we 'll be able to avoid anything like that , but the reality is @ @ @ @ @ have increased in the last few weeks . ''

Asked whether England would end up following Northern Ireland and Wales into lockdown, Mr Johnson said: "Obviously we are hoping very much that we'll be able to avoid anything like that, but the reality is that the rates of infection have increased very much in the last few weeks."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Brexit: UK-EU trade talks enter critical 48-hour period

Although the majority of EU members are not coastal nations , and although everyone in the bloc would love to @ @ @ @ @ bed - for political and financial reasons , as well as being plain fed up @ @ @ @ @ EU as a whole wo n't try to force member states to sign up if @ @ @ @

"They have built up an industry, they have invested in boats and they've had access to these waters for decades, if not centuries and it has been taken away from them and they have not real say in the matter, they had no part in the vote - so feelings are running pretty high," he said.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid patient urges people not to visit family at Christmas

`` If you saw the look on my son 's face when I was fighting for my breath you would @ @ @ @ @ these children all over the country to see their family .

"If you saw the look on my son's face when I was fighting for my breath you would not want to be sending these children all over the country to see their family.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Met Police officer sues over 'sexual and racist' texts

She had asked the police for safety measures to be put in place for her after Mr Redgewell had called @ @ @ @ @ of the night , but says she was ignored .

She had asked the police for safety measures to be put in place for her after Mr Redgewell had called her twice in the middle of the night, but says she was ignored.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Employers back requirement for large firms to disclose ethnicity pay gaps

`` The business community and trades unions are all calling for it .
It is time the government get on @ @ @ @ @ the only one behind the curve on this . ''

"The business community and trades unions are all calling for it. It is time the government get on with it as they are the only one behind the curve on this."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid-19: Fake 'immunity booster' found on sale in London shops

The MHRA , which has not approved Coronil for any use , said : `` Appropriate action will be taken @ @ @ @ @ is offered or sold on the UK market . ''

The MHRA, which has not approved Coronil for any use, said: "Appropriate action will be taken where any unauthorised medicinal product is offered or sold on the UK market."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Graham Norton presents his final Radio 2 show after 10 years

`` I did n't want to take over from Jonathan , '' he told the Media Talk podcast , `` @ @ @ @ @ brilliant and I loved that show , and that 's what I said to them @ @ @ @ @ 'That 's all very well , we get that , but if you turn this @ @ @ @ @ does n't come up very often .
The last time it was 10 or 12 @ @ @ @ @ will regret turning this down ' . ''

"I didn't want to take over from Jonathan," he told the Media Talk podcast, "because I think Jonathan is brilliant and I loved that show, and that's what I said to them. And they explained, 'That's all very well, we get that, but if you turn this down now, this job doesn't come up very often. The last time it was 10 or 12 years ago, so you will regret turning this down'."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Shell shocked: 'Lobster capital' braces for Brexit

`` A lot of rope and twine is made in Portugal , the most popular clothing manufacturer is French and @ @ @ @ @ made in the Netherlands .
The fishermen are therefore faced with the prospect of increasing @ @ @ @ @ buy while the value of their catch is decreasing , '' she says .

"A lot of rope and twine is made in Portugal, the most popular clothing manufacturer is French and the most popular wellies are made in the Netherlands. The fishermen are therefore faced with the prospect of increasing prices on the goods they buy while the value of their catch is decreasing," she says.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Greater Manchester Police chief Ian Hopkins stands down amid force failures

This political tension between populist heavyweights could possibly bring about better policing for the people of Manchester , but it @ @ @ @ @ will lose out as the parties battle over who is responsible for the miserable performance @ @ @ @ @ of working together to improve things .

This political tension between populist heavyweights could possibly bring about better policing for the people of Manchester, but it seems more likely that they will lose out as the parties battle over who is responsible for the miserable performance of the force, instead of working together to improve things.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid: Prisoner self-harm rising amid tighter restrictions

`` Those people in prisons , who already have some fragility around mental well-being and may be cut off even @ @ @ @ @ pandemic and because of their personal situations , unfortunately they 're in a position where @ @ @ @ @ for them to suffer and sometimes that will come out as self-harm or even attempts @ @ @ @

"Those people in prisons, who already have some fragility around mental well-being and may be cut off even more, because of the pandemic and because of their personal situations, unfortunately they're in a position where it's much more easy for them to suffer and sometimes that will come out as self-harm or even attempts at suicide."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Drug deaths in Scotland: Minister Joe FitzPatrick loses job

She added : `` This must be a turning point .
The SNP has failed badly and Joe Fitzpatrick does @ @ @ @ @ .
Our parliament can lead the world on progressive public health policies when we put @ @ @ @ @ ''

In his resignation statement, Joe Fitzpatrick said he "agreed" to leave the Scottish government. I am not sure there were other options available to him in his talks with the first minister.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Elderly man dies after choking on meat in pub

But a consultant said even if the correct equipment had been used , it would have been difficult to remove @ @ @ @ @

But a consultant said even if the correct equipment had been used, it would have been difficult to remove the meat in time.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid at Christmas: 'Chris Whitty is more popular than Britney Spears'

`` We are always struggling to find something to explain things , so we need to have a brand ambassador @ @ @ @ @ ambassadors , '' he says .
`` They are part of the solution so they @ @ @ @ @ ''

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bbcuk--2020-12-19--The 'ghost' silhouettes popping up in a Scottish Borders village

He said the village was proud to have the silhouettes along with the `` positive happy discussions amongst friends and @ @ @ @ @ inspired .

He said the village was proud to have the silhouettes along with the "positive happy discussions amongst friends and strangers" that they had inspired.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid-19 in the UK: How many coronavirus cases are there in your area?

are where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate .
Source : ONS , NRS and NISRA - data updated @ @ @ @ @ have tested positive for coronavirus .
The `` average area '' means the middle ranking @ @ @ @ @ when ranked by cases per 100,000 people .
Public health bodies may occasionally revise their @ @ @ @ @ by age only available for England .
Source : UK public health bodies - updated @ @

Based on the survey, the estimated peak of the pandemic, in cases if not in deaths, was in late March 2022, where at one point about 4.9 million people were thought to have the virus. However, the survey did not capture the first wave of the pandemic, with trials only beginning in England in April 2020.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Coronavirus: UK R number back above one

Coronavirus: UK R number back above one

`` We 're facing very rapid increases in case numbers over time and we have very little headroom - we @ @ @ @ @ local hospitals that really are at their limits at the moment - as is typically @ @ @ @ @ So we just wo n't be able to allow case numbers to rise much further @ @

"We're facing very rapid increases in case numbers over time and we have very little headroom - we've heard reports today that local hospitals that really are at their limits at the moment - as is typically the case in winter. So we just won't be able to allow case numbers to rise much further."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Chester Zoo donors send £3m to help with Covid-related financial 'scar'

`` So I approached illustrators from across the world on Instagram to see if they 'd be willing to help @ @ @ @ @ ] independent publisher , who very kindly took a chance on my book and helped @ @ @ @ @ '' she said .

"So I approached illustrators from across the world on Instagram to see if they'd be willing to help, along with [an] independent publisher, who very kindly took a chance on my book and helped bring it to life," she said.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--We are governing via fear, says leading northern Tory Jake Berry

`` But in truth , because of coronavirus we are governing via fear and if we want to change the @ @ @ @ @ England and get to the other side of Covid , we need to inject hope @ @ @ @ @ bit more optimism to get out of this crisis . ''

"But in truth, because of coronavirus we are governing via fear and if we want to change the economy of the North of England and get to the other side of Covid, we need to inject hope again. We need a bit more optimism to get out of this crisis."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--School staff 'broken' by England's late Covid test plan

It also says the plan in its current form will be inoperable for most schools and colleges , and stresses @ @ @ @ @ guidance refers to an `` offer '' of testing rather than a requirement for schools @ @ @

He said the programme would be a national effort supported by the Ministry of Defence and that schools would have the costs of agency staff covered - but it was not clear whether these staff would be health professionals or supply teachers.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Coronavirus: Woman, 108, gets Covid jab at care home

`` This is not the start of the vaccine roll-out to all care home residents yet but being a part @ @ @ @ @ us in a good place to start once learnings from the care home pilot has @ @ @ @

"This is not the start of the vaccine roll-out to all care home residents yet but being a part of this pilot will put us in a good place to start once learnings from the care home pilot has been captured."


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Covid in Scotland: 'All options on table' for post-Christmas rules

`` But it is not possible in the way that this virus operates , and the importance of looking really @ @ @ @ @ information we have and then using that to reach the best judgements we can make @ @ @ @ @ able to do that at this point . ''

"But it is not possible in the way that this virus operates, and the importance of looking really closely and carefully at the information we have and then using that to reach the best judgements we can make, for us to be able to do that at this point."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Sir David Attenborough on Joe Biden, Christmas wrapping... and flamingos

`` More people had landed on the moon until fairly recently than had landed on the flats .
It 's @ @ @ @ @ The pH there is about 12 - not far off household bleach .
The only @ @ @ @ @ a hovercraft , which was fun but the rubber skirt is shredded by the jagged @ @ @ @

"More people had landed on the moon until fairly recently than had landed on the flats. It's a highly caustic environment. The pH there is about 12 - not far off household bleach. The only option to get there is a hovercraft, which was fun but the rubber skirt is shredded by the jagged soda crystals."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Marcus Rashford: Feeding Britain's Children - inside his campaign to tackle child hunger

Last updated on .From the section Football '' There were times when there was n't any food , so you 'd just go to sleep .
The people that were closest to me knew about the situation me and my family were going through , but my team-mates and coaches did n't . ''
That work has been recognised with a string of awards - he was made an MBE in the Queen 's Birthday Honours list , was recognised at both the Best Fifa Football Awards and BBC Sports Personality of The Year , and was included in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new documentary - Marcus Rashford : Feeding Britain 's Children , which will air on BBC One on Monday - the 23-year-old lets us into his family life , and into his campaign to tackle child food poverty .
'Sometimes we did n't even have a loaf of bread ' - Rashford 's background The film gives a unique insight into Rashford 's childhood .
His mother Mel - a single parent of five - explains how she worked three jobs when Rashford was growing up .
While working as a bookmakers ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the shop .
`` I used to finish my shift and then go back and do the cleaning , '' she says , adding : `` I used to do pot-washing on a Saturday as well . ''
Mel says there were times she served up food for her children but there would not be enough for herself .
`` Sometimes we did n't even have a loaf of bread in the house , '' she says .
`` But I would n't tell somebody I was struggling - it was embarrassing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ documentary , Rashford visits Wythenshawe - the area of south Manchester where he grew up .
He reflects on how local businesses supported him and his family .
`` If they knew my mum was in work , they 'd just let me have a portion of chips or something , '' he says .
Rashford joined Manchester United as a seven-year-old .
Four years later , he moved into club accommodation .
`` It was a big decision that had to be made , '' Mel explains .
`` But because I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really anyone to look after him . ''
Rashford credits his mother with instilling in him the values he is proud of , and she has been heavily involved in his efforts to tackle food poverty during the coronavirus pandemic .
In the film , we learn the footballer moved her and his brothers into a house near Wythenshawe .
Mel says : `` Marcus has provided a home for me and I sit there sometimes and just cry to think of where we 've come from . ''
Rashford says : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have something behind you that is pushing you .
`` When you come from a place of struggle and pain , a lot of the time it switches and it becomes your drive and motivation . ''
'Have they experienced these things ? '
- Rashford 's campaign begins Rashford 's campaign started after the UK went into lockdown because of the coronavirus pandemic in March .
He began working with FareShare to raise money to give meals to vulnerable people .
In June , he told the BBC that about £20m had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He then wrote an open letter to MPs , urging the government to reverse a decision not to provide free school meals during the summer holidays .
At the time , about 1.3 million children from low-income backgrounds were eligible for free school meals in England , and the government had given support during the first lockdown in April .
Rashford was driven by his own experiences .
`` The system was not built for families like mine to succeed , regardless of how hard my mum worked , '' he wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says it was `` out of character '' for him to open up about something so personal , but he believes it was necessary .
`` The people making decisions - have they experienced these things ? ''
he asks .
Soon after Rashford went public with his letter , the government reversed its decision .
Mel says she was `` over the moon '' , adding : `` I must have rung him about 20 times ! ''
'Breakfast club has gone from about 30 to 70 children ' - Rashford goes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The campaign did not stop ; the film follows Rashford as he pushes for further support .
In touching scenes , he visits his primary school , Button Lane .
Head teacher Emma Roberts tells him she is so proud of what he is doing , and Rashford talks to pupils and shares his stories of meeting friends for life in breakfast club .
Jackie Jones , the school 's safeguarding lead , describes how the number of families seeking support from the breakfast club has risen since the start of the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 30 to 70 children , '' she tells Rashford .
`` It used to be about families with parents who work - it 's become about families who can not and do n't have the facilities or the money to feed . ''
Rashford also visits a community store in south London that works with charities to redistribute surplus food from supermarkets to local low-income families .
They say the waiting list of families wanting to use their services over the summer has grown and they are worried about what happens when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is so insensitive ' - the campaign continues into winter In September , Rashford formed a taskforce of major UK food brands and supermarkets .
Together , they called for three policy recommendations by the National Food Strategy to be funded by the government as soon as possible : expanding free school meals to reach more children , expanding existing school holiday food and activities programmes and increasing the value of the Healthy Start vouchers - which help pregnant women , and parents with children under the age of four - to reach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responded by saying it had already increased support to local authorities and Universal Credit .
`` It was almost like there was no emotional connection , '' Rashford says .
`` They were naming the things that they 've been doing for the last six years , but if those things had worked then I would n't be doing what I 'm doing . ''
A petition set up by Rashford , calling for the government to offer free school meals in England during school holidays , reached one million signatures in October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meals over holidays in England was debated in the House of Commons but the motion was voted down .
`` Have any of the people in government speaking about this had a life where they can literally afford to buy food and pay bills and that 's it ? ''
Rashford asks .
`` I doubt that they have .
The way they speak about it is so insensitive .
For me , it 's like they do n't have big enough understanding on the issue . ''
In the aftermath of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charities and other organisations from around the country came out to show support and offered free meals to struggling families over the school holidays .
Rashford used his social media account to publicise the organisations involved .
`` To see so many people do it off their own backs , all over the country - for me it was just a really proud moment , '' he says . '
I 'm happy we 've got to this stage - Rashford 's call from the PM ... what next ?
After huge public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra support to hard-pressed families over the winter .
In an incredible moment in the film , Rashford receives a personal phone call from Prime Minister Boris Johnson , setting out the changes his government would be making .
`` I gather you 've just played Everton ? ''
says the prime minister , before asking whether he scored .
A modest Rashford replies that he got an assist and his mum had just been teasing him for missing a header .
Johnson goes on to set out his government 's plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ winter .
They include a £170m Covid winter grant scheme to feed the most vulnerable , £220m to provide extra food and activities for children in school holidays , an extra £16m to food distribution charities and an increase in value of Healthy Start vouchers .
From the package of support , a £170m ring-fenced fund will be distributed through councils , with at least 80 % earmarked for help with food and bills .
Rashford takes it in his stride .
And it does n't sound as if he 's stopping there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got to this stage , '' he says .
`` But I ca n't stop thinking about what the bigger picture looks like . ''
• None Marcus Rashford : Feeding Britain 's Children airs on BBC One on Monday , 21 December , at 19:00 GMT If any of the issues in this article have affected you and you would like to get help , there are a number of organisations and initiatives that you can approach • None Documentaries Like Nowhere Else : From inspiration to infamous , the story of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Else : Give Kurupt FM a go with the People Just Do Nothing box set

"There were times when there wasn't any food, so you'd just go to sleep. The people that were closest to me knew about the situation me and my family were going through, but my team-mates and coaches didn't."
At the start of 2020, Marcus Rashford was a Manchester United and England footballer. He will end it as an internationally recognised social justice campaigner on child food poverty. His work for the provision of free school meals in England during holidays and other support to low-income families prompted major changes in government policy.
That work has been recognised with a string of awards - he was made an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list, was recognised at both the Best Fifa Football Awards and BBC Sports Personality of The Year, and was included in the annual Football Black List.
In a new documentary - Marcus Rashford: Feeding Britain's Children, which will air on BBC One on Monday - the 23-year-old lets us into his family life, and into his campaign to tackle child food poverty.
Rashford meets London family helped by summer holiday meal vouchers
'Sometimes we didn't even have a loaf of bread' - Rashford's background
The film gives a unique insight into Rashford's childhood.
His mother Mel - a single parent of five - explains how she worked three jobs when Rashford was growing up.
While working as a bookmakers' cashier, she took on another job in the shop. "I used to finish my shift and then go back and do the cleaning," she says, adding: "I used to do pot-washing on a Saturday as well."
Mel says there were times she served up food for her children but there would not be enough for herself.
"Sometimes we didn't even have a loaf of bread in the house," she says. "But I wouldn't tell somebody I was struggling - it was embarrassing."
In one scene in the documentary, Rashford visits Wythenshawe - the area of south Manchester where he grew up. He reflects on how local businesses supported him and his family.
"If they knew my mum was in work, they'd just let me have a portion of chips or something," he says.
Rashford’s mum says she worked three jobs, but still couldn't afford to feed herself sometimes
Rashford joined Manchester United as a seven-year-old. Four years later, he moved into club accommodation.
"It was a big decision that had to be made," Mel explains. "But because I was working nights, there wasn't really anyone to look after him."
Rashford credits his mother with instilling in him the values he is proud of, and she has been heavily involved in his efforts to tackle food poverty during the coronavirus pandemic.
In the film, we learn the footballer moved her and his brothers into a house near Wythenshawe.
Mel says: "Marcus has provided a home for me and I sit there sometimes and just cry to think of where we've come from."
Rashford's mum explains the sacrifices she made to support her family
Rashford says: "I think in sport you have to have something behind you that is pushing you.
"When you come from a place of struggle and pain, a lot of the time it switches and it becomes your drive and motivation."
'Have they experienced these things?' - Rashford's campaign begins
Rashford's campaign started after the UK went into lockdown because of the coronavirus pandemic in March.
He began working with FareShare to raise money to give meals to vulnerable people.
In June, he told the BBC that about £20m had been raised to supply three million meals.
He then wrote an open letter to MPs, urging the government to reverse a decision not to provide free school meals during the summer holidays. At the time, about 1.3 million children from low-income backgrounds were eligible for free school meals in England, and the government had given support during the first lockdown in April.
Rashford was driven by his own experiences.
Rashford explains his drive to help children in poverty
"The system was not built for families like mine to succeed, regardless of how hard my mum worked," he wrote.
In the BBC film, he says it was "out of character" for him to open up about something so personal, but he believes it was necessary.
"The people making decisions - have they experienced these things?" he asks.
Soon after Rashford went public with his letter, the government reversed its decision.
Mel says she was "over the moon", adding: "I must have rung him about 20 times!"
'Breakfast club has gone from about 30 to 70 children' - Rashford goes back to school and meets food charities
The campaign did not stop; the film follows Rashford as he pushes for further support.
In touching scenes, he visits his primary school, Button Lane.
Head teacher Emma Roberts tells him she is so proud of what he is doing, and Rashford talks to pupils and shares his stories of meeting friends for life in breakfast club.
Jackie Jones, the school's safeguarding lead, describes how the number of families seeking support from the breakfast club has risen since the start of the pandemic.
"Breakfast club has gone from about 30 to 70 children," she tells Rashford. "It used to be about families with parents who work - it's become about families who cannot and don't have the facilities or the money to feed."
Rashford also visits a community store in south London that works with charities to redistribute surplus food from supermarkets to local low-income families.
They say the waiting list of families wanting to use their services over the summer has grown and they are worried about what happens when the school voucher scheme ends.
'It is so insensitive' - the campaign continues into winter
In September, Rashford formed a taskforce of major UK food brands and supermarkets.
Together, they called for three policy recommendations by the National Food Strategy to be funded by the government as soon as possible: expanding free school meals to reach more children, expanding existing school holiday food and activities programmes and increasing the value of the Healthy Start vouchers - which help pregnant women, and parents with children under the age of four - to reach an additional 290,000 people.
The government responded by saying it had already increased support to local authorities and Universal Credit.
"It was almost like there was no emotional connection," Rashford says. "They were naming the things that they've been doing for the last six years, but if those things had worked then I wouldn't be doing what I'm doing."
A petition set up by Rashford, calling for the government to offer free school meals in England during school holidays, reached one million signatures in October. A Labour motion on free school meals over holidays in England was debated in the House of Commons but the motion was voted down.
"Have any of the people in government speaking about this had a life where they can literally afford to buy food and pay bills and that's it?" Rashford asks.
"I doubt that they have. The way they speak about it is so insensitive. For me, it's like they don't have big enough understanding on the issue."
In the aftermath of the vote, countless businesses, councils, charities and other organisations from around the country came out to show support and offered free meals to struggling families over the school holidays.
Rashford used his social media account to publicise the organisations involved.
"To see so many people do it off their own backs, all over the country - for me it was just a really proud moment," he says.
'I'm happy we've got to this stage' - Rashford's call from the PM... what next?
After huge public pressure, the government decided to offer extra support to hard-pressed families over the winter.
In an incredible moment in the film, Rashford receives a personal phone call from Prime Minister Boris Johnson, setting out the changes his government would be making.
"I gather you've just played Everton?" says the prime minister, before asking whether he scored. A modest Rashford replies that he got an assist and his mum had just been teasing him for missing a header.
Johnson goes on to set out his government's plans to support vulnerable families in England over the winter. They include a £170m Covid winter grant scheme to feed the most vulnerable, £220m to provide extra food and activities for children in school holidays, an extra £16m to food distribution charities and an increase in value of Healthy Start vouchers.
'The families deserve the U-turn' - Rashford
From the package of support, a £170m ring-fenced fund will be distributed through councils, with at least 80% earmarked for help with food and bills.
Rashford takes it in his stride. And it doesn't sound as if he's stopping there.
"I'm happy we've got to this stage," he says. "But I can't stop thinking about what the bigger picture looks like."
If any of the issues in this article have affected you and you would like to get help, there are a number of organisations and initiatives that you can approach


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Quiz of the Year, part two: What went on during lockdown?

Quiz of the Year 2020 - Part Two Fifty-two weeks , 52 questions .
How many can you get ?
@ @ @ @ @ 9-12 - Not the Wurst ; 5-8 - Trouble Making Your Mind Up ?
; @ @ @ @ @ - The greatest ; 9-12 - Not the Wurst ; 5-8 - Trouble Making Your @ @ @ @ @ - Your Waterloo 13 - The greatest ; 9-12 - Not the Wurst ; 5-8 @ @ @ @ @ Up ?
; 0-4 - Your Waterloo 13 - The greatest ; 9-12 - Not @ @ @ @ @ Trouble Making Your Mind Up ?
; 0-4 - Your Waterloo

Quiz of the Year 2020 - Part Two Fifty-two weeks, 52 questions. How many can you get?
In April, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson spent three nights in intensive care with coronavirus. By the end of the month, he had a newborn on his hands, after his partner, Carrie Symonds, gave birth to a son. But what did they name the child?
Joe Biden (centre right) was the final Democratic Party candidate left in the race to take on Donald Trump in the US presidential election. But which of his opponents was the last to pull out of the contest?
The US released three declassified videos of UFOs, to establish footage circulating was real. Two had been published by the New York Times, the other by an organisation studying the paranormal, co-founded by the singer of which rock group?
Days before the US confirmed its millionth coronavirus case, President Donald Trump suggested scientists might research treating patients by injecting disinfectant into the body. But what else did he suggest scientists examine?
It's been a rollercoaster year for stock markets, with share values plummeting amid lockdowns and fear of recession then rebounding with positive news of vaccines. But who, in May, wiped $14bn (£10.5bn) from his company's value with a tweet?
Rumours of the demise of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un - sparked when he failed to appear at the national celebrations of his late grandfather's birthday - proved to be greatly exaggerated. But how did he reappear in public?
With basketball documentary The Last Dance proving essential lockdown viewing for many, the value of memorabilia signed by its star, Michael Jordan, rocketed. But what sold for a record $560,000 (£420,000) in May?
Bob Behnken (left) and Doug Hurley became the first astronauts sent into orbit by a commercial spaceship supplier, when trialling a "taxi" service operated by the company SpaceX. But what was the name of the rocket that took them there?
Rock 'n' roll lost one of its biggest names when Little Richard died at the age of 87. When the Tutti Frutti singer hadn't been hammering the keys of a piano, he had been serving as a Christian minister. But which celebrities did he not marry?
The killing of George Floyd in the US sparked a summer of Black Lives Matter protests and examination of cultural references. Country band Dixie Chicks (above) changed their name. But which of the following did not?
Liverpool won football's Premier League in June, 30 years after they were last champions of England. It might have felt like a long time to their fans. But which club has endured the longest wait to regain the title?
A world record was smashed when a guitar sold for $6m (£4.5m) at an auction in Los Angeles. But to whom had it belonged?
The Eurovision Song Contest was cancelled and its Rotterdam venue turned into a coronavirus field hospital. But broadcasters united for a programme honouring the 41 entries, while a BBC poll judged the greatest song in Eurovision history. Which was it?
Your Waterloo 13 - The greatest; 9-12 - Not the Wurst; 5-8 - Trouble Making Your Mind Up?; 0-4 - Your Waterloo
Trouble Making Your Mind Up?
13 - The greatest; 9-12 - Not the Wurst; 5-8 - Trouble Making Your Mind Up?; 0-4 - Your Waterloo
Not the Wurst 13 - The greatest; 9-12 - Not the Wurst; 5-8 - Trouble Making Your Mind Up?; 0-4 - Your Waterloo


bbcuk--2020-12-18--My Money: 'I'm a 33-weeks' pregnant doctor'

Today has been the first day after the end of the second lockdown .
Our lockdown experience has been very @ @ @ @ @ we have n't had to worry about our jobs or cope with a reduced income @ @ @ @ @ it has been stressful in other ways - obviously we have had to see a @ @ @ @ @ patients , and during the first lockdown our nursery closed , and my parents were @ @ @ @ @ we had no childcare , which was very hard to manage with two full time @ @ @ @ @ swap a lot of shifts , and it seemed like we were never at home @ @ @ @ @ been an odd time to be pregnant - my husband has not had the chance @ @ @ @ @ a scan or come to any of my appointments , whereas last time he came @ @ @ @ @ I have not been allowed to see high risk patients at work as there is @ @ @ @ @ may be affected by Covid .

Today has been the first day after the end of the second lockdown. Our lockdown experience has been very different from most people - we haven't had to worry about our jobs or cope with a reduced income due to furlough, but it has been stressful in other ways - obviously we have had to see a high volume of very sick patients, and during the first lockdown our nursery closed, and my parents were isolating from us, so we had no childcare, which was very hard to manage with two full time jobs - we had to swap a lot of shifts, and it seemed like we were never at home together. It has also been an odd time to be pregnant - my husband has not had the chance to see the baby on a scan or come to any of my appointments, whereas last time he came whenever he could, and I have not been allowed to see high risk patients at work as there is concern about how pregnant women may be affected by Covid.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Life in a gang: 'You don't know who's gonna die next'

Six days before Christmas , he stands before magistrates in a suit bought for him on a day out with @ @ @ @ @ if he 's jailed he 'll be out before his 18th birthday .
He 's @ @ @ @ @ come - he does n't want her to see him in the dock - but @ @ @ @

Six days before Christmas, he stands before magistrates in a suit bought for him on a day out with his case worker, hoping if he's jailed he'll be out before his 18th birthday. He's told his mum not to come - he doesn't want her to see him in the dock - but she calls incessantly.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Climate change: Law used as stick to beat government

Good Law expects the government to follow suit by revising the airports strategy shortly , too - especially as Prime @ @ @ @ @ voiced opposition to Heathrow expansion and is reputed to be looking for an easy way @ @ @ @

Good Law expects the government to follow suit by revising the airports strategy shortly, too - especially as Prime Minister Boris Johnson has previously voiced opposition to Heathrow expansion and is reputed to be looking for an easy way to stop it.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Coronavirus: Head teacher says school testing plan 'feels a bit like Dad's Army'

The return of secondary school pupils in the New Year will be staggered in England , to allow schools to @ @ @ @ @ .
Only students in Years 11 and 13 will go back on the first day @ @ @ @ @ the children of key workers and those deemed vulnerable .
Simon Uttley , the head @ @ @ @ @ Reading which has 850 pupils , told the BBC the announcement came as a surprise @ @ @ @ @ .

The return of secondary school pupils in the New Year will be staggered in England, to allow schools to prepare for mass coronavirus testing. Only students in Years 11 and 13 will go back on the first day of term, along with the children of key workers and those deemed vulnerable.
Simon Uttley, the head of a high school in Reading which has 850 pupils, told the BBC the announcement came as a surprise and is too short notice.
Read more:Head teachers 'broken' by 11th hour Covid test plans


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Coronavirus: Minister Nick Gibb sets out testing plans for secondary schools

Schools minister Nick Gibb has set out government plans to test secondary school pupils and staff for Covid-19 in England @ @ @ @ @ school in January will be staggered , with some pupils starting online rather than in @ @ @ @ @ BBC Breakfast : `` 'We want to break the chain of transmission . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ making the announcement right at the end of the school term showed `` panic '' @

Schools minister Nick Gibb has set out government plans to test secondary school pupils and staff for Covid-19 in England.
The return to secondary school in January will be staggered, with some pupils starting online rather than in class.
Mr Gibb told BBC Breakfast: "'We want to break the chain of transmission."
The National Education Union has said making the announcement right at the end of the school term showed "panic".


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Boris Johnson: 'Keep it short, kept it small' this Christmas

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged people to think carefully about how they meet people over the festive period .
@ @ @ @ @ Greater Manchester , he said that people had made `` heroic efforts '' to keep @ @ @ @ @ now was the time to focus on avoiding spreading the disease .

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged people to think carefully about how they meet people over the festive period.
Speaking during a visit to Greater Manchester, he said that people had made "heroic efforts" to keep coronavirus under control and that now was the time to focus on avoiding spreading the disease.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--The Papers: 'Lockdown 3 fear' and Oxford jab 'before new year'

© 2020 BBC .
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites .
Read about our approach @ @ @ @

The government guidance on products containing meat or dairy has been met with anger by some haulage workers, with one telling the paper: "God help the poor customs bloke who is going to turf out the driver's food box."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid: Ministers meet amid rising infection rates in England

`` We know that this is a new variant , it has been seen in other countries but it seems @ @ @ @ @ suggests that it has got a transmission advantage , '' Sir Mark said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ that this transmits more easily . ''

If ministers did not want to change the law, Mr Hunt said they should consider strengthening the guidance on social distancing, adding: "It would be an enormous tragedy if we had a spike in deaths at the end of January/February because we took our foot off the pedal this close to having a vaccine."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid in Scotland: Teachers call for mass testing in schools

Union general secretary Patrick Roach said : `` Remote and blended learning , together with a credible programme of mass @ @ @ @ @ ensure that schools are Covid-safe when they reopen next term and help to suppress the @ @ @ @ @ the wider community .

Most pupils had at least three months of learning at home during the first lockdown, exams have been cancelled and many students have had to self-isolate for two weeks at a time after coming into contact with someone who tested positive for the virus.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Coronavirus: NI schools to reopen as normal in first week of January

`` That is why I have decided that it is in the best interests of all pupils for schools to @ @ @ @ @ of January so that their education is not disrupted any further .

"That is why I have decided that it is in the best interests of all pupils for schools to open in the first week of January so that their education is not disrupted any further.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid anxiety: Child 'asking if he's going to die'

`` Making sure that there 's toys , presents , Christmas is going to be ok , at the same @ @ @ @ @ having to be paid , so there 's a lot of anxiety about eviction and @ @ @ @ @ , just to make it a nice time for children .

"Making sure that there's toys, presents, Christmas is going to be ok, at the same time as utilities, rent having to be paid, so there's a lot of anxiety about eviction and borrowing money over this time, just to make it a nice time for children.


bbcuk--2020-12-18--Alex Rodda death: Murder accused 'embarrassed about sexuality'

Asked by prosecutor Ian Unsworth QC what he meant , he said : `` Because of what me and Alex @ @ @ @ @ if I was to speak to someone about it they would n't understand why it @ @ @ @ @ n't accept me if I was gay or bisexual . ''

Asked by prosecutor Ian Unsworth QC what he meant, he said: "Because of what me and Alex had done together, like if I was to speak to someone about it they wouldn't understand why it had happened and they wouldn't accept me if I was gay or bisexual."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid: Cabinet holding talks amid rising infection rates in England

If ministers did not want to change the law , Mr Hunt said they should consider strengthening the guidance on @ @ @ @ @ `` It would be an enormous tragedy if we had a spike in deaths at @ @ @ @ @ we took our foot off the pedal this close to having a vaccine . ''

He told the BBC News Channel: "The really worrying thing from my perspective is that this was something we didn't know about at the beginning of this month and it appeared. And from what we hear, it is already becoming one of the dominant strains."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Covid-19: Ministers meet amid rising cases in England and US approves Moderna jab

Ministers have been meeting to discuss how to contain the rising number of coronavirus infections in England .
It comes @ @ @ @ @ said he was `` hoping to avoid '' another national lockdown in England .
But @ @ @ @ @ '' about the spread of a new variant of Covid-19 in south-east England .
Health @ @ @ @ @ is under significant pressure and analysis suggests the R number is above 1 in the @ @

Ministers have been meeting to discuss how to contain the rising number of coronavirus infections in England. It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was "hoping to avoid" another national lockdown in England. But there are "growing concerns" about the spread of a new variant of Covid-19 in south-east England. Health bosses have warned the NHS is under significant pressure and analysis suggests the R number is above 1 in the UK.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Strictly Come Dancing: 7 memorable moments from this series

Laing has landed in the dance-off several times , as has fellow finalist Maisie Smith .
But , she says @ @ @ @ @ to motivate her .
`` Being in the bottom two , it kind of made @ @ @ @ @ meant to me , and it did give me a massive push to just keep @ @ @ @ @ can , '' she says .
`` And I think that was the turning point @ @ @ @ @ just think , ' I 've got to put my all into this , ' @ @ @ @ @ been paying off ever since . ''

"Blokes sometimes feel a bit self conscious, particularly blokes of my age, they feel like they're going to be called the dad dancer," Bill Bailey says. "And I think if me showing I can get out there and look a little bit more than somebody shuffling about, then why not?" On the subject of encouraging older people to try dancing, he adds: "If that is the consequence of me being on the show then that's wonderful."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Historical Loughborough bell foundry gets £3.45m lottery grant

Hannah Taylor , chair of the Loughborough Bellfoundry Trust , the not-for-profit organisation which oversees the preservation of the site @ @ @ @ @ : `` This news is the best possible Christmas present and will ensure the foundry @ @ @ @ @ museum and rare archive will be protected , and that Loughborough bells are heard and @ @ @ @ @ around the world . ''

Hannah Taylor, chair of the Loughborough Bellfoundry Trust, the not-for-profit organisation which oversees the preservation of the site and its museum, said: "This news is the best possible Christmas present and will ensure the foundry, its buildings, the museum and rare archive will be protected, and that Loughborough bells are heard and enjoyed by many future generations around the world."


bbcuk--2020-12-19--The Papers: 'Lockdown 3 fear' and Oxford jab 'before new year'

The government guidance on products containing meat or dairy has been met with anger by some haulage workers , with @ @ @ @ @ `` God help the poor customs bloke who is going to turf out the driver @ @ @ @ @


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Bird flu concern as charity warns of more cases in Scotland

Ms Voas said : `` We have already made clear that all bird keepers - whether major businesses or small @ @ @ @ @ birds - must ensure that their biosecurity is up to scratch to protect their birds @ @ @ @ @ contact between their birds and wild birds .

Ms Voas said: "We have already made clear that all bird keepers - whether major businesses or small keepers with just a few birds - must ensure that their biosecurity is up to scratch to protect their birds from disease and prevent any contact between their birds and wild birds.


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Landslip and flood warnings follow heavy rain in Wales

Just spoken to @ AndrewMorganRCT about the landslide at the Wattsten tip .
@ WelshGovernment @ RCTCouncil and @ CoalAuthority @ @ @ @ @ months and engineers are on site .
Further reports later today but everything that needs @ @ @ @ @ done .
pic.twitter.com/YANcAyDxwB

A Welsh Government spokesperson said it had "already commissioned work to develop options" for the Wattstown site and it would work with council and the Coal Authority to provide "necessary support".


bbcuk--2020-12-19--Stonehenge Winter Solstice ban criticised by senior druid

For pagans , the Winter Solstice is an important event as it welcomes the new sun .
It is also @ @ @ @ @ with the least sunlight .

For pagans, the Winter Solstice is an important event as it welcomes the new sun. It is also the day of the year with the least sunlight.