bbcuk--2020-06-24--Britain's 'blindingly cool' engineering innovation

Ted Humble-Smith is a conceptual still-life photographer .
He 's well known for his fashion work .
Ted can take a lipstick or a watch and with his extraordinary vision and skill turn the beautiful into something even more gorgeous .
But speak to him for just a few minutes and it 's clear he sees not just the colour and form of his subjects , but the engineering that underpins their design .
In fact , it 's obvious Ted has a passion for it .
He points to the 4-inch stiletto heel .
`` Everyone laughs when I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me .
`` But you have this thing that 's so elegant , so beautiful - and yet at the same time , there has to be some serious engineering and mathematics in there as well .
`` Eight stones at least is going through a square centimetre .
These are big loads but you rarely see people snap their heels these days . ''
Ted has just put his inquisitive eye to a project for the Royal Academy of Engineering .
He 's produced a series of images to celebrate the 50th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honours examples of remarkable British innovation .
From the aerodynamic design of the Severn Bridge to the composite wing of an Airbus jet .
The photos are clearly conceptual in nature but the ideas that went into their creation are drawn directly from conversations with the engineers involved .
Ted took their explanations , extracted the essence and then reimagined his subjects .
His favourite photo - at the moment ; the choice changes - is the EMI X-ray brain scanner , the world 's first computed tomography ( CT ) machine to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MacRobert winner : 1972 ) .
An illuminated , transparent skull is cut through by a rotating disc .
The visual narrative describes the process through which X-rays are able to build a picture of the brain , slice by slice .
`` It 's a hell of an invention , '' says Ted .
`` When you consider that if you wanted to look inside someone 's brain previously , you basically had to take it out , slice it on a bacon slicer and then put it on a lightbox .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ted builds many of the objects he photographs .
At first glance , you might think he 's done everything in a software package on his computer .
You 'd be wrong .
Ted uses models that have been lit in interesting ways and captured under different exposures .
For sure , some image frames have been stacked and any scaffolding , such as rods and wires , has been digitally erased .
But you 'd be able to hold his MacRobert models in your hands .
Witness the picture he produced of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Wholly apposite in this context .
Paintbox revolutionised computer graphics on TV and film .
It enabled the industry for the first time to properly digitise colour and really play with it on our screens ( see the Dire Straits video Money for Nothing ) .
In his image , Ted encodes this in his mind's-eye as paint flying around curved plastic sheets .
`` You can freeze liquids in photography now so well .
I wanted it to look like paint was exploding on to the screen .
So , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complicated way with robots and paint cannons , or you can do it in the slightly haphazard fashion that we did .
Basically , you fling paint around . ''
A wonderful mess in the studio made for a striking image .
Ted 's images for the MacRobert 50th anniversary are being showcased in an online exhibition the Royal Academy of Engineering has developed with the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford .
You can see it here .
And for a taste of the sort of images Ted is best known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gallery on his website .
The finalists for the 2020 MacRobert award have just been announced .
There are three on the shortlist and they are all recognised for contributing innovation to a greener future .
They are : • Babcock 's LGE business ( Fife , Scotland ) , which has developed a system called ecoSMRT to capture `` boil off '' from the tanks holding the liquefied natural gas on board transport ships , reducing emissions .
• JCB ( Staffordshire ) for developing and manufacturing the world 's first volume-produced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prof Sir Richard Friend is the chair of the judging panel .
He 's also himself a past winner for his work on `` plastic electronics '' - technology that has attained ubiquity in the touchscreens of our mobile phones .
He told me : `` The shortlisted companies this year are splendid examples of things you might have thought the UK was n't the natural place for their innovations to emerge .
We sometimes write ourselves out of being world players in quite a few technologies .
There 's no reason for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with cases that are very obviously world-beating . ''
It 's a theme emphasised by Ted Humble-Smith , who confesses to have gone on something of a conversion during his photographic projects .
`` I started out quite despondent about where Britain was in the world - that the UK never seems to do anything anymore , '' he recalled .
`` But then I started talking to the present-day people and it just gave me a whole new belief that actually there 's some blindingly cool stuff happening in the UK .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ incredible things . ''
Jonathan.Amos-INTERNET @ bbc.co.uk and follow me on Twitter : @ BBCAmos

In his image, Ted encodes this in his mind's-eye as paint flying around curved plastic sheets. "You can freeze liquids in photography now so well. I wanted it to look like paint was exploding on to the screen. So, you can do it in a very complicated way with robots and paint cannons, or you can do it in the slightly haphazard fashion that we did. Basically, you fling paint around."


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Hot weather: How to sleep in the heat

Hot weather: How to sleep in the heat

As temperatures soar across many parts of the UK , the difficulty of getting a good night 's sleep is on many people 's minds .
But there are things you can do to beat the heat .
Here are some tips .
Hot weather can make us feel a bit lethargic during the day .
That 's because we 're using more energy to regulate our internal temperature .
But if your sleep is disturbed at night , try to avoid napping during the day .
When it 's hot , sleepiness can be precious - save it for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to change your habits .
Do n't .
That can disrupt sleep .
Try to keep to your usual bedtime and routines .
Do the things you normally do before bed .
Take steps to make sure your bedroom is as cool as it can be at night .
During the day , draw the curtains or blinds to keep the sun out .
Make sure you close the windows on the sunny side of your home , to keep hot air out .
Open all the windows before you go to bed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reduce your bedding but keep covers handy .
Thin cotton sheets will absorb sweat .
However hot it is in your bedroom , your body temperature will fall during the night .
That 's why we sometimes wake up feeling cold .
Using even a small fan can be sensible in hot weather , especially when it 's humid .
It encourages the evaporation of sweat and makes it easier for your body to regulate your internal temperature .
If you do n't have a fan , try filling your hot water bottle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , cool socks in the fridge and put those on .
Cooling your feet lowers the overall temperature of your skin and body .
Drink enough water throughout the day but avoid drinking very large amounts before bed .
You probably do n't want to wake up thirsty - but you do n't want to take an additional trip to the bathroom in the early hours either .
7 .
But think about what you drink Be careful about soft drinks .
Many contain large amounts of caffeine , which stimulates the central @ @ @ @ @ @ @ awake .
Avoid drinking too much alcohol as well .
Many people drink more when the weather is hot .
Alcohol might help us fall asleep but it promotes early morning waking and a poorer quality of sleep overall .
How do hot temperatures affect the body ?
• Dehydration : drink enough water to make sure you replace that lost through urination , sweating and breathing • Overheating : this can be a particular problem for those with heart or breathing problems .
Symptoms include tingling skin , headaches and nausea • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lose water or salt from your body .
Feeling faint , weak , or having muscle cramps are just some of the symptoms • Heatstroke : once a body temperature reaches 40C or higher , heatstroke can set in .
Indicators are similar to heat exhaustion but the person may lose consciousness , have dry skin and stop sweating If you 're struggling to sleep , get up and do something calming .
Try reading , writing , or even folding your socks .
Just make sure you do n't play on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the blue light makes us feel less sleepy and the activity is stimulating .
Return to bed when you feel sleepy .
9 .
Think of the children Children are usually quite robust sleepers - but they are very sensitive to changes in family `` mood '' and routine .
Make sure usual bedtimes and bath times do n't go out of the window just because it 's warm .
As part of the bedtime routine , lukewarm baths are recommended by the NHS UK website .
Make sure they are n't too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( your body 's way of keeping warm ) .
A baby ca n't let you know if they 're too hot or too cold , so it 's important to monitor their temperature .
They 'll sleep best when the temperature is kept between 16C and 20C .
You could install a thermometer where the baby is sleeping or check their forehead , back or stomach to see if they feel hot to the touch .
10 .
Get over it Most of us need about seven to eight hours of good-quality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But remember that most people can function well after a night or two of disturbed sleep .
Although you might yawn a little more frequently than usual , you 'll probably be fine .
These tips were based on suggestions by Prof Kevin Morgan , former director of the Clinical Sleep Research Unit at Loughborough University , and Lisa Artis , of the Sleep Council .
This article was first published in July 2019 .

A baby can't let you know if they're too hot or too cold, so it's important to monitor their temperature. They'll sleep best when the room temperature is kept between 16C and 20C.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Covid-19: A brief look back at the government briefings

From 4 July the two metre rule is to be relaxed to `` one metre plus '' where 2m is @ @ @

The daily Downing Street news conferences became a fixture of the UK's coronavirus coverage.
Now that they have been scrapped, here's a look back at the last three months' briefings.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Police officer under investigation for the Tasering of a Birmingham man

A West Midlands Police officer is under investigation for the Tasering of Trevaile Wyse in Birminham back in Feburary 2020 @ @ @ @ @ excessive , and has damaged his health .
Nearly 20 % of Taser incidents involve @ @ @ @ @ , African , Caribbean and black British people making up just over 3 % of @ @ @ @

A West Midlands Police officer is under investigation for the Tasering of Trevaile Wyse in Birminham back in Feburary 2020, which he says was excessive, and has damaged his health.
Nearly 20% of Taser incidents involve black people, despite Black, African, Caribbean and black British people making up just over 3% of the UK population.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Coronavirus: Vaccine volunteers begin to get immunised

Kathy is one of the first volunteers taking part in a trial to find a vaccine for coronavirus .
About @ @ @ @ @ in the coming weeks in the Imperial College London trial .

Kathy is one of the first volunteers taking part in a trial to find a vaccine for coronavirus.
About 300 people will be immunised in the coming weeks in the Imperial College London trial.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Coronavirus: Business owners on furlough, grants and loans

Business owners have been helped by the coronavirus job retention scheme and grants and loans to keep them going , @ @ @ @ @ due to wind down in October .
Politics Live reporter Ellie Price spoke to four @ @ @ @ @ have helped them and whether it is enough to help them trade in more normal @ @ @ @ @ watch the full programme for 30 days from transmission

Business owners have been helped by the coronavirus job retention scheme and grants and loans to keep them going, although the furlough scheme is due to wind down in October.
Politics Live reporter Ellie Price spoke to four owners to see how these have helped them and whether it is enough to help them trade in more normal times.
UK viewers can watch the full programme for 30 days from transmission


bbcuk--2020-06-24--The Papers: Minister under pressure and sunseekers hit beaches

While the Daily Telegraph dedicates most of its top fold to a picture of a rammed Bournemouth beach , its @ @ @ @ @ distancing in schools .
It says next week the government will announce that social distancing @ @ @ @ @ and `` bubbles '' will be expanded to enable all pupils to return to classes @ @ @

In the words of the i newspaper Mr Jenrick is "on the ropes". It says he had hoped that by publishing all correspondence, he would be drawing a line under the issue. Instead, the paper adds, it has left him fighting for his career.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: 'Armed officers' sent to check Cornwall holiday let

A holiday home owner has complained to the police watchdog after he said armed officers were sent to check he was complying with lockdown rules .
Shaun Pritchard , from Cornwall , said sending officers with guns was `` heavy handed '' and `` alarming '' .
He has also accused Devon and Cornwall Police of breaching procedural rules by entering his property without permission or a warrant .
The force said it attended the property on 11 June but no arrests were made .
A spokesperson said the complaint to the Independent Office for Police Conduct ( IOPC ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cornwall Police Professional Standards Department to progress .
Mr Pritchard , who rents out a holiday home in St Newlyn East , said he had guests staying when the lockdown was announced in March .
He said he contacted police for advice and the guests left a few days later .
Since then key workers including a nurse and military personnel have stayed in the property for short periods but Mr Pritchard said it had mostly been empty .
Mr Pritchard said he had been reported to the police and his girlfriend Anna @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the street .
`` The local community that I live in are not really fans of holiday lets , '' he said .
Mr Pritchard , who is a key worker , said he received two visits from police and had been checked on by the council twice , prior to what he said were armed officers coming to his property .
He said the two officers gained access to his property without consent via another property 's private access .
In his complaint to the IOPC , Mr Pritchard wrote : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is now a matter of harassment .
`` We are extremely concerned that on the most recent occasion , police felt it expedient to send two armed officers for an alleged breach of a holiday let being open . ''
• 'There will be a shortage of holiday cottages' Mr Pritchard asked for an explanation of what reason under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act the officers had `` to enter the property without warrant or being invited '' .
He said the visit had been `` disconcerting '' and he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would be back to check again - a measure he said was unnecessary given three visits to the property had resulted in no breaches of legislation being found .
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesman said : `` While complaints are under review , we are unable to comment further . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

He said the visit had been "disconcerting" and he was concerned because one of the officers said they would be back to check again - a measure he said was unnecessary given three visits to the property had resulted in no breaches of legislation being found.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Highland Council finances 'hit hardest' by Covid crisis

Covid-19 has cost Highland Council more per head of population than any other UK local authority , according to BBC research .
The cost of the infection to the council could run to £96.9m , the fourth worst in the UK .
But the estimated shortfall at the council is the equivalent of £411 for every resident - the highest UK figure .
Aberdeen is next with its potential worst-case shortfall of £82m the equivalent of £359 per resident .
Perth and Kinross comes third , according to this measure , with its estimated potential shortfall of £50m the equivalent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's potential £96.9m gap is the fourth worst-case shortfall in the UK , after Birmingham , Essex and Manchester .
Having the highest proportion of furloughed staff in Scotland , along with the loss to its tourism-dominated economy has placed extra pressure on Highland Council .
Additional costs have been incurred through adapting services and providing financial support for vulnerable people and struggling businesses .
Head of finance at the authority Ed Foster said balancing its deficit would not be possible `` without shed loads of pain '' .
About 230,000 people live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area covers just under half the landmass of Scotland and a large swathe of coastal area .
But the BBC research suggests that financially it has been hit harder than anywhere else in the UK as a result of the virus pandemic .
The region 's main sources of income - tourist car parks , docking fees and the sale of marine fuel at all of its 100 harbours - have been reduced to `` zero overnight '' as a result of the pandemic .
A single car park in Inverness previously earned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made £75 .
Its £55m of lost income has been coupled with the cost of around £40m of extra expenditure caring for an ageing population through the crisis , most of whom are spread out among hundreds of communities .
Carers regularly travel 30 to 40 miles to visit a single patient in a day .
But redundancies in adult social care will follow if the council can not get funding to cover its shortfall .
Mr Foster said : `` Because so much of our budget is tied up in staffing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reduce headcount . ''
`` The decisions we would have to make would be pretty damaging . ''
Alasdair Christie , chairman of the recovery board set up to steer Highland Council out of the crisis , said the full-scale of Covid-19 's effect on the authority was still to be known .
He said : `` At the moment we really do n't know what 's going to happen to us .
The longer term impacts of this could be even worse .
`` I think , because of the nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasing unemployment and even more demand for our services . ''
Councils have received funding from the Scottish government to help them , and many are continuing their dialogue with the government about obtaining further support .
Aberdeen City Council , which said its worst-case scenario shortfall was based on the lockdown `` persisting throughout the financial year '' , has received two tranches of funding so far totalling £8m .
City of Edinburgh Council said it was working on narrowing its budget gap , but said it will require additional financial support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McVey said : `` A big part of our response to date has been built on positive dialogue with government , and we 're continuing to work with ministers on the funding Edinburgh will need going forward . ''
He said the council 's number one priority through the crisis had been to support the city 's communities and most vulnerable residents .
Mr McVey added : `` We 've worked hard to protect our staff as far as possible , to introduce emergency measures to help those in need , and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Edinburgh .
`` This will not change as we work through the coming weeks and months or as we adapt our services for the longer-term . ''
Perth and Kinross Council said it had incurred `` significant new and additional costs '' as a result of the pandemic , while experiencing a loss of income across a number of areas .
It said unemployment figures for the region showed a `` staggering '' 94 % increase during April , highlighting the high proportion of jobs related to the hospitality and tourism sectors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The coronavirus pandemic has had an enormous human cost .
It is also the greatest challenge public services have faced .
`` But people across Perth and Kinross have shown remarkable resilience in the face of such adversity . ''
Ms Reid said even after lockdown restrictions were lifted entirely there would still be work to do to `` build back an even better council for residents , staff , businesses and visitors '' .
More about this story The Shared Data Unit makes data journalism available to news organisations across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partnership between the BBC and the News Media Association .
This data was gathered with help from the Local Democracy Reporting Service .
For more information on methodology , click here .
For the full dataset , click here .
Read more about the Local News Partnerships here .

Its £55m of lost income has been coupled with the cost of around £40m of extra expenditure caring for an ageing population through the crisis, most of whom are spread out among hundreds of communities.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Noah Donohoe: Police ask people to check property for missing teen

Police searching for a 14-year-old boy who went missing in north Belfast three days ago have urged people to check their property for him .
Officers believe Noah Donohoe may have fallen from his bicycle and sustained an injury causing him to remove his clothing on Sunday evening .
He was last seen in areas close to the Shore Road .
Supt Muir Clark said Noah was `` not in any trouble '' and appealed for him to `` let us know you are safe '' .
A number of items belonging to the teenager , including his bicycle and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In a news conference on Wednesday afternoon , joined by Noah 's mother Fiona , Supt Clark said his family was `` completely distraught '' .
`` This behaviour is completely outside Noah 's character , '' he added .
He said Noah had been seen walking towards a wooded area , which had been searched and would be searched again and appealed for anyone who was on North Queen Street or York Street at about 18:00 BST on Sunday and who has dashcam or CCTV footage to contact them .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Skegoneill Avenue , Northwood , Premier Drive to check their outbuildings , '' Supt Clark said .
`` We would appeal for people in that area to check all of the nooks and the crannies to make sure that Noah is not there or , if he is there , we find and give him any assistance required . ''
He added : `` We have grave concerns and we want to find Noah as soon as possible '' We 're very grateful for the cross-community help that we 've had from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ His family is extremely distressed and we will do everything in our power to find Noah as quickly as we can . ''
Parents are holding their children close here in north Belfast .
They are among hundreds of volunteers who 've come out to search for Noah Donohoe .
It 's now midweek and the 14-year-old schoolboy has been missing since Sunday .
The people who are searching are knocking on doors , asking householders to check their outdoor spaces .
Others are clambering over fences and hedges to search fields and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police search team is using a camera to check street manholes along the Shore Road and all neighbouring streets towards the Antrim Road .
Small groups of people are gathered in huddles sharing information and waiting in hope for good news .
The police are leading the search operation with support from volunteers from the Community Rescue Service and members of the public .
Noah 's aunt , Niamh Donohoe , said the response of local people aiding the search had been amazing and appealed for them to continue helping the family .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's heart-wrenching , especially for his mother who 's just inconsolable and just wants him home , '' she said .
`` We 're just taking it minute by minute and day by day .
`` We just appreciate it so much , I ca n't even convey to everybody that 's here .
Thank you for all the help and just keep coming please . ''
Sean McCarry , of the Community Rescue Service , said the public in north Belfast had been `` tremendous '' in helping with the search @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to talk to their neighbours , try and find out if anybody 's seen Noah , '' he said .
`` If you 've seen him , please come forward to the police immediately because we need some kind of direction of travel for Noah .
`` We 're still very optimistic as we will continue to be , hope 's the last thing that goes .
`` For a young boy of 14 this time of year , he 's fit and healthy , there 's a very good chance that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who he is , we do n't know what 's going on with Noah , but we do know this is totally out of character .
`` So our expectation is that we 're still going to find Noah safe and well , but we do need to find him . ''
In a statement , Ch Insp Gavin Kirkpatrick said police believe Noah left his home in south Belfast at about 17:30 BST on Sunday 21 June .
He was seen on Ormeau Avenue at 17:45 BST and then again on Royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towards York Street .
Shortly before 18:00 , Noah was sighted on North Queen Street heading towards the Limestone Road .
`` An eyewitness believes they saw a young male matching Noah 's description fall off his bicycle on Sunday evening , possibly sustaining a head injury , in the vicinity of North Queen Street/York Street , but we do not know the specific time , '' the chief inspector added .
Police think Noah got back on his bicycle and cycled into Northwood Road , but then dropped his bicycle and left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sighting was in this area at 18:08 .
`` Police officers supported by air support unit , police dogs and our tactical support group have been searching the area alongside Community Rescue Service colleagues and local volunteers , '' the officer added .
Police said Noah was riding a black Apollo mountain bike when he was last seen .
He was wearing a khaki green North Face jacket ; black skateboarding helmet ; a blue and navy hooded top ; grey sweat shorts with an emblem on one leg ; Nike trainers with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rucksack .
Anyone with information on Noah 's whereabouts is asked to contact police immediately on 101 .

He said Noah had been seen walking towards a wooded area, which had been searched and would be searched again and appealed for anyone who was on North Queen Street or York Street at about 18:00 BST on Sunday and who has dashcam or CCTV footage to contact them.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Coronavirus: Women make up two-thirds of cases in Wales

Women make up nearly two-thirds of all confirmed coronavirus cases , figures from Public Health Wales have shown .
Senior nurse Navjit Kaur tested positive for coronavirus on the same day her friend died with it .
She said the fact there were more women in the nursing profession meant they were more likely to catch it .
The Wales TUC said the figures should be used to recognise women working on the front line in health and social care are `` underpaid and undervalued '' .
Four out of five people working in health and social care in Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Office of National Statistics ( ONS ) .
Mrs Kaur , 40 , from Barry , was diagnosed on the same day her friend Leilani Medel , who was also a nurse , died with coronavirus .
The mother-of-one , who works in a nursing home , said it was `` impossible '' to socially distance when caring for someone , especially when clients with dementia become upset .
She said : `` I 'm a nurse and I have a natural instinct to go and hold their hands , to try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Wales : How many people have died ?
• Figuring out the stats on coronavirus in Wales Mrs Kaur isolated herself in her bedroom , with her eight-year-old daughter communicating with her from the room next door .
`` I was worried about my family , how they were going to cope without me if anything happens , '' said Mrs Kaur , who has since recovered .
`` Even though I 've recovered and am back to work , there 's a fear in my mind still . ''
The official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all coronavirus cases diagnosed have been in women .
Shavanah Taj , Wales TUC 's General Secretary , said poor quality personal protective equipment ( PPE ) has a particular impact on women .
`` A lot of the PPE still does not fit women correctly and there 's a real gap as far as the manufacturing around the appropriate sizing for PPE is concerned , '' she said .
`` Sectors women are predominantly focused in , those are the sectors that have been classed as front line and as key to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the workers that need to be valued and those are the ones that need to be protected and to be paid the proper wages that are required for those jobs . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• IMPACT : What the virus does to the body • RECOVERY : How long does it take ?
• ENDGAME : How do we get out of this mess ?
Health policy expert Dr Clare Wenham , from the London School of Economics , said the apparent difference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initially focused on healthcare workers , the majority of whom are women .
But she said women were potentially more exposed to the virus because they are more likely to be in care-giving roles in the home and are also more likely than men to seek medical help if they become unwell .
Dr Wenham said higher infection rates in women had also been seen in data during the Ebola , cholera and Zika outbreaks .
Meanwhile , men made up 56 % of Covid-related deaths in Wales between March and April , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not yet known why .
And a report by a Welsh Government advisory group into the impact of Covid-19 on BAME communities found systemic racism may have contributed to increased risks of the virus on Wales ' black , Asian and minority ethnic communities .
A Welsh Government spokesperson said : `` There are a number of factors which affect the demographics of those being tested for Covid-19 .
`` Wales ' initial approach to testing focused on protecting the most vulnerable to the virus , such as those working in hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those providing essential front-line services .
`` In April and May respectively , we extended our testing to include critical workers and then to symptomatic members of the public to support the implementation of Wales ' Test , Trace , Protect strategy . ''

But she said women were potentially more exposed to the virus because they are more likely to be in care-giving roles in the home and are also more likely than men to seek medical help if they become unwell.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Bristol band Idles' Facebook fan group 'helps save lives'

A small Facebook group made to connect fans of Bristol punk band Idles has grown into a huge support network for thousands of people .
Over the past three years , `` AF Gang '' has grown to more than 27,000 members and become a judgement-free community where members can talk openly about their problems .
If somebody posts about their struggles with their mental health or a difficult family situation , they can find dozens of members commenting to support them and offer advice .
Jonathan Murray , from Liverpool , said the group practically saved his life .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ health for years , '' he said .
`` I 've tried counselling and I 'm on medication but I still feel like I 'm on my own and I 've got no one to talk to .
`` Rather than speaking down to me , it 's like we were one big group .
They tell you to just go with the flow and let it happen .
`` The band 's music and lyrics made me feel like I was n't alone .
Through the group I met people going through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2009 .
Their second album , Joy as an Act of Resistance , was released in 2018 as a rallying call for unity , covering topics including toxic masculinity and racism .
The admins of the Facebook group adopted the name AF Gang because the band used to have a drum kit that had `` IDLES AF '' written on the front of it .
`` It 's started to open up a discussion and allow people to open up and show that it 's OK to talk about your problems , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of overwhelms me with how much of an effect it 's had on people .
`` A very large number of young males are told and conditioned not to open up and not to discuss things and there 's a high suicide rate because of it .
`` I hope it can be replicated in other places .
It seems to have been a very positive change for a lot of people in the group . ''
Members said they still talked about the band in the group but it also offered a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hehir , from Kent , said she was able to open up to the group after the sudden death of a close friend , in a way she could not with her boyfriend or family .
`` I 'd just got back from the funeral , '' she said .
`` I had n't spoken to anyone about how I was feeling .
`` For some reason I turned to a bunch of mad , brilliant strangers on the internet and opened up properly about my pain and what I was going through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to flock to it in the way that they did and offer such compassion and care to a complete stranger .
`` If I had n't have found them I would be considerably less happy woman than what I am now . ''
AF Gang admin Lindsay Melbourne said some members were `` doing better '' in lockdown , but others came to the group for support , especially if they were isolating by themselves .
`` We know a lot of online peer support communities have seen an significant increase in users @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that people are going online to seek support but it 's important you 're going to platforms that are helpful and safe , '' she said .
`` We 're spending so much more time online .
In some cases that can be great , but sometimes it can feel overwhelming .
`` Our advice would be to just take a break if things are feeling overwhelming . ''
You can hear from the AF Gang and Idles in Unusual Times , available on BBC Sounds .

"We know a lot of online peer support communities have seen an significant increase in users and it's so encouraging to see that people are going online to seek support but it's important you're going to platforms that are helpful and safe," she said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Antibody test lacks 'proper assessment'

Covid-19 antibody tests for NHS and care staff are being rolled out without `` adequate assessment '' , experts warn .
The tests could place an unnecessary burden on the NHS , the 14 senior academics say in a letter in the BMJ , Last month , the government said it had bought 10 million antibody tests and asked NHS trusts and care homes to make them available to staff in England .
Officials say the blood tests - to see if someone has had the virus - will play an `` increasingly important role '' .
Some patients and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being offered them too .
They normally show if someone - who has previously been unwell with a bug - has developed antibodies that offer protection against future bouts of the illness .
But how the immune system reacts to the Covid-19 virus remains uncertain .
With the current laboratory tests , NHS England says , a positive result shows a person has had coronavirus .
But crucially , it does not prove they have immunity against future attacks or whether they could transmit the virus to others .
Nevertheless , health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests will help them understand more about the spread of disease .
Public Health England has launched a study of 10,000 healthcare workers which involves antibody and other blood tests to learn more about immunity to the virus .
What are the concerns ?
The group of scientists say as a positive result is unable to prove immunity , the tests offer `` no benefit '' to hospitals and care staff .
The results do not change what personal protective equipment staff must wear , for example .
The academics also suggest there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test works for people at highest risk - including people belonging to some ethnic minorities and older patients .
Instead , they call for other carefully designed strategies to help monitor the spread of the virus .
What do other experts think ?
Prof Sir John Bell from Oxford University , who has advised the government on antibody tests , said the academics who wrote to the BMJ had underestimated the value of the tests .
`` We do need to know how many people out there have been infected and the only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme .
But he said they were right to say there was not enough evidence that a positive test indicated immunity .
`` You could n't safely use it as a way of telling people whether they could be exposed or not , '' he said .
Prof Martin Hibberd , of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , described the tests as an important component of the public-health response .
He added : `` If used successfully , the data generated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the effectiveness of control measures put in place . ''
Meanwhile Dr Tom Wingfield , at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine , said he shared the concerns raised in the academics ' letter .
He added : `` We do n't yet have sufficient evidence on accuracy and interpretation of antibody tests . ''
• SOCIAL DISTANCING : What are the rules now ?
• BUBBLES : How do they work and who can be in yours ?
• JOBS : Can my boss force me to go to work ?
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bars and restaurants reopen ?
A Public Health England official said all tests in the programme had been `` extensively validated by the manufacturers and have received CE marks '' indicating compliance with EU safety standards .
What about other parts of the UK ?
Wales is currently working on its testing policies .
Meanwhile , Scotland 's chief medical officer has written to all health boards to say they should not offer `` on-demand '' antibody testing to NHS staff , care workers or patients .
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But he said they were right to say there was not enough evidence that a positive test indicated immunity. "You couldn't safely use it as a way of telling people whether they could be exposed or not," he said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Police injured during illegal Brixton street party clashes

Twenty-two police officers have been injured and their vehicles damaged during clashes at an illegal street party in south-west London .
Two officers were taken to hospital after breaking up the `` unlicensed music event '' near Angell Town in Brixton on Wednesday night .
Police were called following complaints from residents about noise and violence .
Four people were arrested .
Home Secretary Priti Patel described the scenes as `` utterly vile '' .
A dispersal order had been put in place earlier in the day and police officers tried to encourage the crowd to leave .
The event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group became hostile , the Met Police said .
Footage on social media showed a number of police vehicles being smashed and officers being chased .
Four people were arrested for assault and public order offences .
They remain in custody .
One witness said people from outside the area had come to Angell Town and caused problems .
Michael , a local bus driver who did not want to give a his surname , said it was `` very upsetting '' the violence had happened in his area .
`` The whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
He blamed people from other areas who `` come down to tarnish the works and efforts that have been put into the area by the estate management '' .
Cdr Colin Wingrove said : `` These gatherings are unlawful , as well as posing a risk to public health and against coronavirus restrictions .
`` The violence shown towards officers is totally unacceptable and we will not tolerate it in any form . ''
Police later implemented a Section 60 order , which gives increased stop and search @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Just last weekend , the whole country came together to praise our heroic police officers for putting their own lives on the line to keep us safe .
`` I 'll be picking up with the Met Commissioner immediately . ''
The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said : `` Violence against the police will not be tolerated .
`` Large gatherings during Covid-19 are deeply irresponsible and risk others ' lives . ''
Mr Khan said he was in touch with police about the incident .

"We have been clear that anyone who assaults the police or any of our emergency service workers who keep us safe should feel the full force of the law," the spokesman said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--UK weather: Sun safety warning as UV level tipped to soar

People are being warned take extra precautions in the scorching sunshine - as the UK is expected to see a record level of UV radiation during the day .
With temperatures forecast to climb to 33C ( 91.4F ) in some parts of the country , the Met Office has said the UV level is a real concern .
On Wednesday , thousands enjoyed the sun at beaches on the hottest day of the year so far , with London hitting 32.6C .
UV rays can cause sunburn and other damage to the skin .
The south of England is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to go past 30C while Scotland and Wales will reach around 29C ( 84.2F ) .
Northern Ireland is predicted to have a largely sunny day but slightly cooler than elsewhere .
• What is the UV Index and why could it break UK records ?
• Hot weather : How to sleep in the heat Dr Lynn Thomas , medical director of St John Ambulance , said vulnerable people , such as young children or the elderly , should stay inside if possible - but she recognised it was tempting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weather .
`` But make sure you 've got plenty of sunscreen on , make sure you 're wearing a hat , try and stay in the shade as much as possible and make sure you take plenty of cool drinks with you , '' she said .
BBC Weather presenter Matt Taylor said there were exceptionally high levels of UV radiation , which could reach nine on the UV index .
The UK normally sees maximums of six or seven during the summer .
• TALKING HEADS : Imelda Staunton , Sarah @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much-loved monologues • PREVIEW THE LATEST MUST-SEE SHOW : I May Destroy You He explained that it can be more of a factor given that these conditions are being seen in June rather than later in the summer .
`` We have just gone past the summer solstice so the sun is higher in the sky , '' he said .
He added that an `` exceptionally large depletion of ozone in the northern hemisphere '' , a recent lower level of pollutants and a current spell of high pressure were other factors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear , so that UV rays were not being interrupted .

"But make sure you've got plenty of sunscreen on, make sure you're wearing a hat, try and stay in the shade as much as possible and make sure you take plenty of cool drinks with you," she said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Many European countries set to be exempt from quarantine

Ministers are due to finalise details of a series of `` travel corridors '' so people arriving into the UK on certain routes will not need to quarantine .
Most of Western Europe is due to be on an initial list of exempt countries .
The countries expected to be exempt include France , Italy , Spain , Greece , Belgium , Germany , Norway , the Netherlands , Turkey and Finland .
Portugal will probably not be included after a rise in the number of new cases in and around Lisbon .
Sweden is also unlikely to be on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is higher than in the UK .
A travel corridor would mean that two people travelling in both directions between two countries would not have to self-isolate after they travel .
The initial list of destinations exempt from the quarantine is expected to take effect early next month .
Work is also on-going to see if a travel corridor is possible with Australia .
The quarantine will remain in place for people arriving from other countries and it 's thought that might be the case for some destinations throughout the summer .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be reviewed every three weeks and 29 June marks the end of the first three-week period .
The first travel corridors could come into force on 4 July , although that date is by no means confirmed .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps had indicated there would be an announcement on Monday .
But the BBC understands that initial details could be unveiled this weekend .
What are the current quarantine rules ?
• People arriving in the UK should drive their own car to their destination , where possible , and once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or taxis • Arrivals must not go to work , school , or public areas , or have visitors - except for essential support .
They are also not allowed to go out to buy food , or other essentials , where they can rely on others • Those arriving in England , Wales and Northern Ireland could face a fine of £1,000 if they fail to self-isolate for the full 14 days , while they face a £480 fine in Scotland .
The maximum fine for repeat offenders in Scotland is £5,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here .
Anyone arriving from the Republic of Ireland , the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man does not have to complete a form or enter quarantine upon arrival in the UK .
There are also exemptions for workers in some industries such as road haulage and medical professionals who are providing essential care .
The travel industry has been vocal in its criticism of the government 's quarantine rules , warning that the isolation period will deter visitors and put jobs at risk .
Some airlines were in the early stages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has also highlighted that fewer flights will restrict imports and exports , which will have a knock-on effect for the freight industry , as well as hampering the recovery of some businesses .
Despite criticism from businesses , Home Secretary Priti Patel said that the measures were `` proportionate '' and being implemented `` at the right time '' when they came into effect on 8 June .

The travel industry has been vocal in its criticism of the government's quarantine rules, warning that the isolation period will deter visitors and put jobs at risk. Some airlines were in the early stages of legal action.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Royal Mail to cut 2,000 jobs as virus hits business

Royal Mail is to cut 2,000 management jobs as it struggles to deal with the effects of the coronavirus crisis .
The cuts , about a fifth of the company 's management roles , aim to save about £130m in costs from next year .
Royal Mail said the pandemic accelerated the trend of more parcels and fewer letters being sent , and it had not adapted quickly enough to that .
The company 's challenges have included former boss Rico Back making a surprise exit from the business in May .
The job losses will hit senior roles hardest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go , and will mainly fall on so-called `` back-office '' jobs , including finance , commercial and IT .
Frontline postal staff are unlikely to be affected because Royal Mail needs to preserve `` quality of service '' , a spokesman said .
Royal Mail 's cull of middle managers - one fifth of the near-10,000 total - is a warm-up for a much tougher set of negotiations with front line staff .
The company has had a fractious relationship with its workforce and the Communication Workers ' Union for several years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and conditions , including pension arrangements , have been fraught with difficulty .
Chairman Keith Williams , who is standing in as chief executive after the abrupt departure of Rico Back last month , is blunt about the need for change , saying the company had `` not adapted quickly enough to the changes in our marketplace of more parcels and fewer letters '' .
That succinct diagnosis could have been written at any point in the last decade , and it is perhaps slightly surprising that , after more than a decade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has 10,000 people in management roles .
The job cuts are still subject to consultation .
The bigger battle , with the CWU , still awaits .
The Unite union , which represents the Royal Mail managers , said the move to cut jobs `` deflects attention from where the real problems lie '' .
`` Poor decision-making at the top of Royal Mail in the past has failed to recognise the pace in the decline in the volume of letters , and there has been a too slow investment in technology and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ growth in parcels , '' said Unite national lead officer for the Royal Mail group Mike Eatwell .
`` This scenario has been made worse by the adverse impact of coronavirus on the economy . ''
He said the job cuts were `` a classic example of trying to reposition a business to create a viable long-term future , while feeling under pressure to make short-term cuts that only hinder that transition '' .
Royal Mail said that the planned job cuts , which it wants to make by March 2021 , would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The company did not pay a dividend to shareholders in 2020 , and said in a statement to investors on Thursday that it would not pay a dividend in 2021 either .
Royal Mail shares fell almost 9 % in morning trading .
In the year to March 2020 the company made a profit before tax of £180m , down from £241m the year before .
Royal Mail has been trying to move away from its UK-focused letters business to be an internationally-focused parcels business , said Richard Hunter , head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis has caused job losses in a number of industries in the UK so far .
The aviation industry has been hit particularly hard .
On Wednesday , airport ground handling giant Swissport announced it would halve its UK workforce .
British Airways said in April that it would cut up to 12,000 jobs , drawing criticism from MPs .
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"Poor decision-making at the top of Royal Mail in the past has failed to recognise the pace in the decline in the volume of letters, and there has been a too slow investment in technology and facilities to keep abreast of the huge growth in parcels," said Unite national lead officer for the Royal Mail group Mike Eatwell.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Westferry planning row: Jenrick texted property developer, documents show

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick was in close contact with the businessman behind a controversial planning case while preparing to decide whether to approve it , official documents show .
Private messages show Mr Jenrick texted Richard Desmond before giving the go ahead for a housing development against advice from officials .
Labour said it showed `` discrepancies '' in Mr Jenrick 's account of events .
But Downing Street said Boris Johnson now considered the matter `` closed '' .
The documents were released after Labour claimed Mr Jenrick 's approval of a massive housing development on the site of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ London raised suggestions of `` cash for favours '' .
Mr Desmond made a personal donation of £12,000 to the Conservative Party 12 days after the minister overruled government planning inspectors to approve the development .
The decision to approve the development was later challenged by Tower Hamlets Council , forcing the secretary of state to say what he did was `` unlawful by reason of apparent bias '' .
It is now being handled by another minister .
The housing secretary insists he had no knowledge of Mr Desmond 's donation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` not unusual '' , motivated by a desire to see more homes built .
• Jenrick and Westferry : What 's at stake in row ?
A billionaire with a planning problem finds himself sitting next to the cabinet minister responsible for planning , at a Conservative fundraising dinner .
The two later exchange texts and planning permission is granted in the nick of time , just before the developer would have found himself on the hook for a whopping tax bill .
The billionaire then makes a donation - albeit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party .
Little wonder this has caused Labour and others to ask loads of questions about what on earth was going on .
It looks bad .
That 's not my judgement - but that of Robert Jenrick .
Mr Jenrick changed his mind and rescinded the planning permission , as it was `` unlawful by reason of apparent bias '' .
The minister insists he was n't biased , he declined to visit the proposed building site , and he has always been committed to and driven by ensuring more houses are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still no permission for the building work to start .
Notably , Labour is not calling for Robert Jenrick to resign and the prime minister says the case is closed .
So , for now at least , Mr Jenrick appears safe .
It is clear from the emails and letters released on Wednesday evening that Mr Jenrick supported the housing project - in the face of opposition from his officials - and was keen to make rapid progress with the decision .
The papers include personal correspondence between the minister and Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & Shell , in the run-up to the planning permission being granted on 14 January .
Mr Desmond , the former owner of Express newspapers , had been lobbying for the proposed 1,500-home development to be approved before the local council , Tower Hamlets , introduced a new Community Infrastructure Levy ( CIL ) to pay for local services .
In a text message to Mr Jenrick in November 2019 , with an apparent reference to the Labour council , Mr Desmond wrote : `` ... we appreciate the speed as we do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of doe [ sic ] for nothing ! ''
In one of the papers , a civil servant wrote , `` On timing , my understanding is that the SoS is/was insistent that the decision issued this week i.e .
tomorrow - as next week the viability of the scheme is impacted by the change in London CIL . ''
Mr Jenrick approved the scheme on 14 January , by which Mr Desmond avoided paying £40m for the levy .
Business Minister Nahim Zahawi told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jenrick , that was his motivation .
`` But when there was a perception of bias , he pulled back on this , pulled the plug on it and will now allow a different minister to decide the scheme .
The papers also show Mr Jenrick asked a member of his staff to arrange a meeting with Mr Desmond the day after he sat next to him at a Tory fundraising dinner , at which the businessman showed him a video of the planned development on his phone .
But on the following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they should not meet again to avoid `` any appearance of being influenced '' .
The arranged meeting appears to have been cancelled nearly a month later because Mr Jenrick had to be in Parliament for the Queen 's Speech .
The opposition said Mr Jenrick also overruled his advisers to reduce the amount of affordable housing required in the development , potentially saving Mr Desmond a further £106m .
Labour 's shadow communities secretary , Steve Reed , said he was `` far from satisfied '' with Mr Jenrick 's explanation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Mr Desmond were `` highly inappropriate '' and `` not in the spirit of the ministerial code of conduct '' .
`` The housing secretary needs to explain these discrepancies as a matter of urgency : the public must be reassured that there is not one rule for the Conservatives and their wealthy donors and another rule for everyone else , '' he added .
The UK 's top civil servant Sir Mark Sedwill has rejected opposition calls for an investigation into Mr Jenrick 's conduct - and whether he had broken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given a `` full and factual account '' of his actions .
Under the code , ministers must `` declare and resolve any relationships '' , report any social contact with interested parties and `` take decisions impartially , fairly and on merit , using the best evidence and without discrimination or bias '' .
John Biggs , Labour Mayor of Tower Hamlets , said : `` The revelations about the Westferry Print Works decision have blown apart confidence in our planning system under Mr Jenrick .
`` The documents he was forced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like he rushed through the decision to help save the developer money and short-change my residents .
''The minister referred to our borough as 'rotten ' , and messages from the developer called our council 'Marxist ' .
This name calling says more about them and their disregard for my residents whose borough it is , and who rightly want much needed affordable homes and money for local services . ''
It is the timing of the decision to approve the development which is the greatest cause for concern among those living close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came the day before a new community infrastructure levy was introduced , saving the developer an estimated £40m that could have been spent on schools , transport , hospitals and sports facilities .
`` I really feel that I 've been a bit cheated to be honest with you , '' says local resident Ruth Bravery , who runs a charity that helps the destitute in East London .
`` That meant that the local people are really going to lose out as a result . ''
Speaking in the Commons before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the accusations were `` not simply wrong but actually outrageous '' , adding the decision had been made on its merits after a thorough process .
But he admitted `` things could and should have been done differently '' , saying : `` On reflection , I should have handled the communication differently . ''
Conservative backbencher Sir Bernard Jenkin backed Mr Jenrick to stay in his job and told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme that while there had been a mistake there was `` no sign of actual maladministration '' .

''The minister referred to our borough as 'rotten', and messages from the developer called our council 'Marxist'. This name calling says more about them and their disregard for my residents whose borough it is, and who rightly want much needed affordable homes and money for local services.''


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Seven Sisters house explosion: Two young boys and woman 'critical'

A woman and two boys , aged under six , are in a critical condition after an explosion destroyed a house .
Neighbouring properties were also badly damaged in the blast on Church Road in Seven Sisters , Neath Port Talbot , at about 14:05 BST on Wednesday .
Up to 18 neighbours helped pull the woman , named locally as Jessica Williams , 31 , and her two children from the house , one rescuer said .
South Wales Police said all three were in a `` critical but stable '' condition .
Both boys were flown to Southmead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was taken to Morriston Hospital , Swansea .
The road remains closed and people are being asked to avoid the area .
An investigation is under way into the cause of the explosion , which destroyed the terraced home .
'Your natural instinct is to help' Retired firefighter Jeff Davies , who was one of the first on the scene , said he scrambled to the house after hearing a bang and a woman screaming .
He told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast he and five neighbours rescued the woman from debris in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulled the children free .
He said : `` It was unbelievable the scene , shocking .
`` Normally the wise thing would be to stand back and watch and let others come but obviously there 's always a delay until the services come and when you hear people and know there 's people in the building your natural instinct is to help .
`` Thankfully there must have been about a dozen people at the front of the property and there must have been half a dozen along with myself helping out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community team effort .
`` Other volunteers , residents had pulled the children out from the front of the house . ''
He said he and his neighbours moved the woman using joists from the collapsed roof of the house .
`` She was immense .
Such a brave young lady , '' he said .
`` She was injured herself and very concerned for her children . ''
Fourteen nearby properties were evacuated following the incident .
Speaking on Wednesday night , a spokeswoman for South Wales Police said all three had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the explosion was being investigated .
`` The road will remain closed overnight and diversions are being put in place , '' she said .
Community councillor Gary James told Radio Wales Breakfast : `` We 're a close-knit community and I know for a fact that the neighbours rushed to the scene… '' It 's a major shock to the community and our thoughts are with the family who were living there . ''
She said Neath Port Talbot had opened a rest centre for residents .
Kirsten Alison Williams , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explosion made their conservatory shake .
`` What shook me the most was a small , baby teddy bear was there laying on top of the car roof , '' she said .
Utility company Wales and West Utilities said it sent emergency engineers to assist .
Neath Port Talbot council leader Rob Jones thanked the emergency services for their swift response and said the council `` stands ready to offer whatever support is required '' .
`` My thoughts and those of my council colleagues are with those who were injured in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I know that Seven Sisters is a close-knit community , and that many will be feeling a mixture of shock and sadness at this time . ''
It is now the day after the explosion and debris from the house are still strewn across Church Road .
The road remains closed to both vehicles and pedestrians as investigators work to establish the cause of the blast .
One neighbour , who did n't want to be named , said he had no idea if there was any damage to his home but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his neighbour and children were safe .
`` When you see them growing up , and see them in the garden you grow attached , '' he said .

"Normally the wise thing would be to stand back and watch and let others come but obviously there's always a delay until the services come and when you hear people and know there's people in the building your natural instinct is to help.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: UK councils fear bankruptcy amid Covid-19 costs

Some of the largest UK councils say they may have to declare themselves effectively bankrupt unless the government agrees to further support .
Five councils said emergency spending controls - so-called section 114 notices - could be needed due to the impact of Covid-19 .
Nearly 150 authorities have forecast a combined budget shortfall of at least £3.2bn , the BBC found .
The government said it was working on a `` comprehensive plan '' for councils .
• At least five English councils warned they may meet the criteria to issue a section 114 notice at some point without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bankrupt • They include some of the UK 's largest unitary authorities - Leeds , Wiltshire , Trafford , Tameside and Barnet • Liverpool 's Mayor Joe Anderson previously warned the city may decide to issue a section 114 notice but the authority said on Wednesday it was now planning to set a revised budget in September to address a £58.6m shortfall • Birmingham City Council - the largest authority in Europe - said `` given the size '' of its forecast shortfall of £212m across 2020-21 and 2021-22. after £70m government funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` would not rectify this situation '' • Of 173 local authorities who responded to the BBC 's questions , 148 predicted a budget shortfall • At least 20 local authorities plan to hold an emergency or in-year budget • At Highland Council in Scotland , the estimated shortfall is equivalent to £411 for every resident Whitehall has already given £3.2bn funding to all English councils in two tranches to help cover coronavirus costs .
Lost business rates , council tax holidays and emergency payments for families whose incomes have disappeared have all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the same time as rising costs of adult care and providing protective equipment for carers .
Some of those councils would also typically depend on tourism for large chunks of income , such as dividends from airports they own or parking fees from visitors .
Facilities like council-owned leisure centres , which would normally produce income for authorities , are also closed .
Plummeting passenger numbers at Luton Airport are contributing to a £49m shortfall at the authority which owns it , Luton Borough Council .
A spokesman said it would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented cuts to key services '' if more cash was not made available .
Manchester City Council is losing out on more than £130m income this year from sources such as the council 's part-ownership of Manchester Airports Group ( MAG ) .
Sir Richard Leese , leader of Manchester City Council , said : `` It is no exaggeration to say that we are on the edge of a financial precipice . ''
England 's Minister for Local Government , Simon Clarke , said the £3.2bn funding already given to local authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of support from across government for local communities and businesses - totalling over £27 billion - including grants , business rate relief and for local transport '' .
About 230,000 people live in the Highlands but the area covers just under half the landmass of Scotland .
Its main sources of income - tourist car parks , docking fees and the sale of marine fuel at its harbours - have been reduced to `` zero overnight '' as a result of the pandemic , Highland Council said .
Head of finance Ed Foster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be possible `` without shed-loads of pain . ''
`` Because so much of our budget is tied up in staffing , in order to balance we would need to reduce headcount , '' he said .
The BBC asked councils if they thought they would meet the criteria for issuing a section 114 notice .
Barnet Council in London referred to a report from a committee meeting where it said the `` anticipated costs of the disruption remain within the available resources of the council , however without additional levels of funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of being unable to remain in balance should the period of disruption sustain '' .
A spokesman later stressed it did not anticipate a need to issue a section 114 notice , adding : `` We have financial reserves which are well in excess of the impact Covid-19 will have in the current year .
`` This impact is being felt by all local authorities and we welcome the government support already received .
We will remain in contact with the government about the importance of continued financial support for local authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ professor at the Local Governance Research Centre , De Montfort University in Leicester , said : `` Local governments are being left to flounder .
`` The list of near-bankrupt councils is going to grow unless more support is available . ''
He said councils `` needed to be given more autonomy to raise their own revenue '' or further funding would be needed to support them in the long term .
Section 114 notices are issued in England when a council can not achieve a balanced budget .
In February 2018 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authority for almost 20 years to warn it may not meet its legal obligation to balance the books for that financial year .
To cope with the coronavirus pandemic , councils revealed they were planning a mix of responses including using up cash reserves , reducing services and cancelling or postponing spending on big projects .
What does the government say ?
The government was not aware of any English councils at `` imminent risk '' of issuing a section 114 notice , Jeremy Pocklington , the top official at the Ministry of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs last week .
Council bosses , however , previously said the funding they had received was `` not even close '' to covering the costs of what had already been spent during the pandemic .
Mr Clarke said : `` We are working on a comprehensive plan to ensure councils ' financial sustainability over the financial year ahead - we will continue to work closely with them to ensure they are managing their costs and we have a collective understanding of the costs they are facing . ''
A Scottish government spokesperson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's councils have received £405 million in advanced payments this financial year , and by the end of July this will have risen to £455 million .
`` This funding , which included weekly advanced payments to councils until parliamentary approval was secured , will help prevent local authorities experiencing cash flow .
Councils received an additional £150 million in May , £255 million in June , and will receive £50 million in July . ''
They added the Scottish government was working with local authorities and `` pressing the UK government for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partners in local government . ''
Councillor James Jamieson , chairman of the Local Government Association , which represents councils ' interests , said it was pleased the `` government had indicated it was working on a comprehensive plan to address the ongoing financial challenges , '' but `` urged the government to bring forward details ... as soon as possible '' .
More about this story The Shared Data Unit makes data journalism available to news organisations across the media industry , as part of a partnership between the BBC and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gathered with help from the Local Democracy Reporting Service .
For more information on methodology , click here .
For the full dataset , click here .
Read more about the Local News Partnerships here .
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Barnet Council in London referred to a report from a committee meeting where it said the "anticipated costs of the disruption remain within the available resources of the council, however without additional levels of funding, the council will move into significant risk of being unable to remain in balance should the period of disruption sustain".


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Thousands flock to Dorset coast in heatwave

Thousands of people flocked to the Dorset coast as temperatures soared , leading to a `` complete breakdown of decent , normal behaviour '' .
Bournemouth Beach was packed on Wednesday and roads to Durdle Door were closed after people failed to use the pre-booking system .
There were reports of anti-social behaviour , illegal parking , piles of litter , overnight camping and gridlock .
Visitors are urged to `` act responsibly '' on the second day of the heatwave .
Traffic is building on coastal roads with temperatures set to hit 25C later .
BBC reporter Emily Hudson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as far as Birmingham .
Photographs showed beaches and beauty spots heaving with people on Wednesday , which was the UK 's hottest day of the year so far .
David Moreley , who lives in Sandbanks , said : `` What we saw was a complete breakdown of normal decent behaviour and law and order - it 's completely swamping the system . ''
The chain ferry linking Sandbanks and Studland was unable to carry vehicles late into Wednesday evening because of the gridlock on surrounding roads .
There was also reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Elsewhere along the coast , police at Hove Lawns seafront put a dispersal order in place after a large gathering .
I 'm standing next to Bournemouth pier - there are thousands of people as far as the eye can see .
Some in the sea on inflatables , others sat on the sand , there are significant [ numbers of ] gazebos - there is one group of about 50 people .
One man told me he camped in a tent overnight , a lot of people have come from Birmingham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were telling me they wanted to get `` out and about '' after the coronavirus lockdown .
It 's incredibly hard to keep social distancing - people are passing each other certainly at less than 2m .
One woman from Birmingham admitted she felt uncomfortable , but said : `` You 've got to understand , after three months lockdown in the city centre , even seeing the sea is worth it . ''
Dorset councillor Laura Miller said she was verbally abused and spat at as she directed traffic yesterday at Durdle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dependent on tourism - we 're not saying 'do n't come ' , but come here in a safe and managed way .
When it 's too busy , no-one is having fun , '' she said .
Current government guidelines state that households can drive any distance in England to parks and beaches .
Bournemouth East MP Tobias Ellwood said the situation was `` very serious indeed '' .
`` If we are to avoid a second [ Covid-19 ] spike , we have to adhere to these rules - we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Right now the beach is one of the few things you can actually do , but you have to do it responsibly - that is individuals recognising we are still in an enduring emergency . ''
Earlier this month , both Dorset councils had called on the government to impose travel restrictions , raising concerns that visitor numbers could increase Covid-19 cases in the county .
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"I'm sorry to see the departure of the No 10 briefings because they would have been perfect for today - for a key figure in No 10 to clarify what is actually happening in Bournemouth and to clarify that message nationally - to say 'please for the moment stay away from all our seafronts'," he said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--NHS annual clap: UK encouraged to mark anniversary on 5 July

A nationwide clap to thank the NHS will take place on 5 July , in what is intended to become an annual tradition .
People will be encouraged to applaud the heroes of the pandemic with family and friends at 17:00 BST that Sunday , the 72nd anniversary of the NHS .
Many broadcasters will break away from normal programming to mark the moment .
On 4 July , the evening before , people will be asked to put a light in their windows in remembrance of all those lost to the coronavirus pandemic .
Major public buildings , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Shard and the Wembley Arch , will be lit up in blue .
• Call for UK-wide clap in July on NHS anniversary • Clap For Our Carers : Pictures from around the UK • Time to end Clap for Carers , says founder At the peak of the coronavirus pandemic , households across the country regularly applauded healthcare workers from their doorsteps every Thursday evening .
The Clap for Carers initiative started on 25 March and was the brainchild of Dutch-born Londoner Annemarie Plas .
The weekly tradition was often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pans .
It was Ms Plas herself who called for the tradition to end after its 10th week and she expressed her hope that it could instead become an annual event .
NHS England chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said he hoped the public would use the new anniversary as an opportunity to `` say a heartfelt thank you '' to hospital staff .
Sir Simon said : `` This year has been the most challenging in NHS history , with staff displaying extraordinary dedication , skill and compassion to care for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital treatment and many others besides .
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`` During this testing time our nurses , doctors , physios , pharmacists and countless more colleagues were sustained by the support of the public , not least through the weekly applause for key workers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of NHS Wales , said : `` I know communities across Wales will want to pay tribute and thank everyone who has played their part in supporting our nation through this pandemic . ''
The nationwide clap has been organised following a letter from the Together coalition , in which influential figures including Sir Simon and the Archbishop of Canterbury the Most Rev Justin Welby voiced their support for making 5 July an official day of commemoration .

It was Ms Plas herself who called for the tradition to end after its 10th week and she expressed her hope that it could instead become an annual event.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Michael Rosen: Children's author back home after coronavirus fight

The former Children 's Laureate Michael Rosen has returned home after a battle with the coronavirus that saw him spend 47 days in intensive care .
The poet and author thanked NHS staff for saving his life and getting him `` from horizontal to hobbling '' .
Rosen , who was admitted to hospital in London in March , said he was `` forever grateful '' for their efforts .
He is now at home with wife Emma-Louise Williams and `` Sticky McStickstick '' , his hospital-issued walking aid .
`` Thanks a million to the hundreds - if not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he wrote on Tuesday .
He paid tribute to the `` nurses , doctors , cleaners , caterers , ambulance drivers , physios ( and more ) '' who made `` huge efforts '' to keep him alive .
The author said he was `` overwhelmed '' to learn his family had `` hung on in hope while I was out of it in a coma for several weeks '' .
`` I 'm so lucky to have had such hope and support backing me , '' he added .
His @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a picture of her football-loving husband sitting outside with an Arsenal mug .
Rosen , who turned 74 last month , was Children 's Laureate from 2007 to 2009 .
His many works for children include We 're Going on a Bear Hunt , Little Rabbit Foo Foo and Tiny Little Fly .
His 2008 poem These Are The Hands was written to mark the 60th anniversary of the NHS .
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bbcuk--2020-06-25--M1 crash: Lamborghini wrecked after 20 minutes

A newly-bought Lamborghini was wrecked after just 20 minutes on the roads , police said .
The luxury sports car , believed to be worth about £200,000 , was damaged in a crash on the M1 in West Yorkshire .
The Lamborghini was hit from behind by a van after stopping in the outside lane because of a `` mechanical failure '' , West Yorkshire Police said .
The driver of the van suffered head injuries in the collision , although they were not thought to be serious .
• More news and stories from across Yorkshire A police officer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crash , near Ossett on Wednesday , and said that although `` it 's only a car '' he `` could have cried '' .
Officers were called just after 13:00 BST to a reports of a two-vehicle collision near junction 40 of the M1 .
Part of the motorway was shut while the van and Lamborghini were moved .
The motorist has not been identified and it is not known where the Lamborghini was bought and whether it was new or used .
However , similar models to the one involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from between £150,000 and £250,000 .
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bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Warning over antibody tests and Royal Mail to cut jobs

Here are five things you need to know this Thursday morning about the coronavirus outbreak .
We 'll have another update for you at 18:00 BST .
Coronavirus antibody testing for NHS and care staff is being rolled out without `` adequate assessment '' , a group of scientists is warning .
Given a positive result does not prove immunity , or whether a person will not pass on the virus to others , the academics say they offer `` no benefit '' to hospitals or care facilities , such as by influencing the protective kit staff must wear .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ managers go Royal Mail is to cut 2,000 management jobs as , like many businesses , it struggles to deal with the effects of the coronavirus crisis .
While the postal service was already facing challenges , it said the pandemic had accelerated the trends of more parcels and fewer letters being sent .
With the pandemic having deprived councils of income from tourism and business rates , and caused them to offer council tax `` holidays '' and emergency payments , nearly 150 authorities say they face budget shortfalls totalling at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further government support , they may have to effectively declare themselves bankrupt .
The government says it 's working on a `` comprehensive plan '' to ensure councils ' sustainability .
Groups of up to 30 people have been breaking social-distancing rules and taking drugs at rental properties , having posed as key workers to book online , say hosts and neighbours .
Such `` lockdown parties '' put communities at risk , says the Bed and Breakfast Association .
5 .
Fancy a pint ?
You might need an app for that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the reopening of pubs and restaurants .
But , as Rory Cellan-Jones explains , in many places you may find you need an app allowing the premises to keep a temporary record of your details to help with coronavirus contact-tracing procedures .
Get a longer daily news briefing from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning , by signing up here .
We have all the dates you can expect pubs and restaurants to reopen in your part of the UK .
You can find more information , advice and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the latest from our live page .
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Coronavirus antibody testing for NHS and care staff is being rolled out without "adequate assessment", a group of scientists is warning. Given a positive result does not prove immunity, or whether a person will not pass on the virus to others, the academics say they offer "no benefit" to hospitals or care facilities, such as by influencing the protective kit staff must wear.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Coronavirus: Researchers to trial salt water as Covid-19 treatment

The use of salt water in the treatment of Covid-19 is to be trialled by researchers in Edinburgh .
Previous research has suggested the homemade remedy can help reduce symptoms of a common cold .
It found people who gargled and cleared their nose with a salt water solution reported fewer coughs , less congestion and seemed to recover quicker .
Edinburgh University scientists will investigate if the remedy can also help people with the new coronavirus .
The study is now recruiting adults in Scotland with Covid-19 symptoms or who are confirmed as having the virus .
The original @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Lothians Viral Intervention Study , or Elvis - recruited healthy adults within two days of them contracting a type of upper respiratory tract infection commonly known as a cold .
They were divided into two groups with one group asked to gargle and rinse their nasal passages with a salt solution as they felt necessary .
The other group dealt with the cold the way they normally would do .
All participants kept a diary of their symptoms for up to two weeks .
Self-collected swabs were also tested to measure the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nose .
Researchers said those who carried out nasal irrigation and gargling with the salty solution experienced a shorter cold , were less likely to pass it on to their family , had faster viral clearance and were less likely to use medicines from a pharmacy .
Prof Aziz Sheikh , director of the university 's Usher Institute , said : `` We are now moving to trial our salt water intervention in those with suspected or confirmed Covid-19 , and hope it will prove to be a useful measure to reduce the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It only requires salt , water and some understanding of procedure , so should , if found to be effective , be easy , and inexpensive , to implement widely . ''
The study is funded by Breathe - the data research hub for respiratory health .

Researchers said those who carried out nasal irrigation and gargling with the salty solution experienced a shorter cold, were less likely to pass it on to their family, had faster viral clearance and were less likely to use medicines from a pharmacy.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Coronavirus: Disabled woman's home a 'cell' in lockdown

A disabled woman says she is living in a `` glorified cell '' , unable to leave her home .
Carol Cray , 65 , said carers who usually drive her to the shops or to the park are no longer taking her in the car due to the coronavirus pandemic .
She said it was also hard to go outside her home in Brynmawr , Blaenau Gwent , in her wheelchair as the surrounding streets are too hilly .
The Welsh Government said there were exceptions to the rules for carers .
The company which provides her care , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not comment on individual cases but supports service users in a `` safe and legal manner '' .
Ms Cray would be allowed in carers ' cars under Welsh Government rules , and while Radis said it follows the guidance , it added that it `` strives to provide alternatives to going outside '' .
`` It really is getting to me .
I just ca n't take any more , '' said Ms Cray , who has osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia .
`` Sometimes I just feel like smashing the place to pieces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
• 'Living on my own has been a very lonely time' Ms Cray lives alone and does not have any family who can help .
She receives Personal Independence Payments ( PIP ) from the UK government and has support workers who help her in the house and to get out and about .
`` They 'd [ previously ] take me in the car then , go down to the Post Office , pay all my bills , '' she said .
`` They 'd take me to the dentist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my shopping .
`` But without 'my girls ' , and a car , and someone to push a wheelchair , I ca n't go . ''
Ms Cray says using a car is the only option because the streets around her home are too hilly for her to be pushed any distance in a wheelchair .
`` It 's alright if you live on the flat but , up here in the valleys , you 've got steep hills , '' she said .
`` There 's bound to be other people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as I do .
`` Somebody has got to speak up . ''
Paula Hoggarth , from Radis , said : `` Lockdown has been a particularly tough time for many service users across the UK .
`` We 've worked hard throughout this challenging period to balance the physical and mental health of both our service users and our staff .
`` We always strive to provide alternatives for going outside that adhere to government regulations and we will continue to ensure that we 're doing everything we can to support our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manner .
`` Obviously , we ca n't comment on individual cases but we do all that we can to ensure that the lives of our service users carry on as normally as possible in these challenging times . ''
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"Obviously, we can't comment on individual cases but we do all that we can to ensure that the lives of our service users carry on as normally as possible in these challenging times."


bbcuk--2020-06-23--'It was a shock' - the businesses not allowed to reopen

While pubs and hairdressers in England have been given the all clear by government to reopen on 4 July , many business owners were disappointed to learn they must keep their doors closed for now .
`` It was a shock .
I can understand the logical argument but personally it feels very irritating and disappointing , '' says Adam Grant , a tattoo artist and studio manager at Tattoo UK in Uxbridge , west London .
He says it was frustrating to hear that hairdressers can open on 4 July , while tattoo parlours must remain closed .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have measures in place to prevent-cross contamination he says , such as the disposable gloves and aprons which artists must wear .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson told parliament on Tuesday that the government 's public health experts will work with sectors which remain closed , to help them become `` Covid secure '' and open `` as soon as possible '' .
In the hope of a 4 July opening , Mr Grant had already made changes to the way the studio operated , including mandating face masks and asking future customers to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says he has no date for reopening and no guidance on what safety measures will need to be in place .
`` We 've been left in limbo really , until further notice , '' he says .
As a self-employed tattoo artist Adam was able to claim financial support from the government during lockdown , but he says that only covered him for 2-3 months .
`` We may have to see if we can get another self-employment scheme because if we 're not allowed to open , we need to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ten businesses still not allowed to reopen : Beautician Tara Williamson is also frustrated by what she sees as a double standard from government , with hairdressers allowed to reopen but beauty salons staying closed .
She runs The Beauty , Skin and Eyelash Lounge in Epping and had planned to open on 4 July .
`` I do n't really get it .
I do n't see a reason why we could n't open and it will obviously be a big blow , '' she says .
Tara had already made a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following safety guidelines that were issued to salons reopening overseas , in the absence of any clear guidelines in the UK .
`` We 've put screens in place , we 've done a one-way system in the salon , we 've prepared everything for the two metre distancing , we 've staggered appointments , we 've got sanitising stations , '' she says .
`` It just seems crazy that we have no guidelines of when we can open and what is going to be happening . ''
Rob Ward , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Lytham , Lancashire , says he was also hoping to reopen on 4 July .
The gym received a government grant of £25,000 during lockdown and Rob was able to enrol his staff on the state-paid furlough scheme .
But he says closing for three months has inflicted a huge financial hit .
`` You start a year with projected figures but they 've all been knocked , '' he says .
`` We 've had some amazing support from local members , who were able to support us financially even when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A lot of our personal trainers taught free online classes to keep the gym going .
It 's been a crazy time but there are such positives that come out of it . ''
Rob had been putting in place social distancing measures for when the gym can welcome back its members .
`` Every other treadmill is out of order now , so you 've got space .
In our spin studio we 've taken lots of bikes out , '' he says He 's also used tape to ensure space between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ machine for overnight disinfecting , and introduced a new online booking system .
Even though the government has now reduced social distancing guidelines from 2m to '1m-plus ' , Rob says he 'll keep the current measures in place `` to inspire consumer confidence '' .
`` We need a date .
That 's the main thing . ''
Mark Sesnan , managing director of GLL , says he 'd also like a date to open his 200 swimming pools , with 11,000 staff across the UK .
`` Basically we 've been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 weeks .
We feel extremely disappointed and let down , '' he says .
`` As an industry we submitted documents to government on 7 May .
Those documents have all been accepted and we 'd been led to believe they provided a good enough framework for re-opening . ''
Mark says GLL was able to furlough most of its staff , but the organisation has also had to dig into its cash reserves .
With pools geared toward a 4 July opening , GLL has also incurred costs from recent preparations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the worst thing about Boris Johnson 's announcement on Tuesday was the lack of a firm opening date for businesses that must remain closed .
He 's called on the government to `` come off the fence '' .
`` I was down at Charlton Lido yesterday in the blazing sunshine with a massive bright blue , empty swimming pool .
It 's sad for everybody , '' he says

"We may have to see if we can get another self-employment scheme because if we're not allowed to open, we need to be compensated," he says.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Emily Eavis: Glastonbury 2021 will be 'a double celebration'

Next year 's Glastonbury festival will be a `` double celebration '' , organiser Emily Eavis has told the BBC .
The festival was due to be celebrating its 50th anniversary this weekend , with headline sets from Paul McCartney , Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar .
Instead , it was called off in March as the coronavirus pandemic took hold .
`` Having to cancel was quite gutting , '' Eavis told BBC Music .
`` But the first year back after what we 've been through will be the most amazing party .
`` We all need it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all need that kind of connection .
We need to be together .
`` Being forced to be in lockdown and everything we 've all gone through together has made those things all the more precious . ''
She hinted that next year 's line-up could be one of the most spectacular yet , with sets delayed from this year 's festival combined with the artists already booked for 2021 .
`` Because we 're rolling two festivals together , we 've got a hell of a lot of surprises that we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 're going to try and get those things going for next year , '' she told BBC 6 Music .
`` Logistically it 's a little bit complicated because we 'd already pencilled in many , many of the acts for 2021 ... so we 're trying to work out how much we can fit into next year .
`` But obviously , 2021 , it 's a little but unknown as to where we 're going to be , so we 're optimistic so we 're not going too far down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ More than 200,000 people , including 135,000 ticket-holders , would have descended on Worthy Farm in Somerset if the festival had gone ahead this weekend .
Fans who bought tickets or paid deposits for this year 's event have been allowed to roll those over to next year .
Any returned or cancelled tickets will be put on sale later this year .
Marcus Mumford , who was due to play a surprise set with Mumford and Sons at the festival , said he was gutted to be missing out .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was anything other than Glastonbury , '' he told BBC Breakfast , `` but Glastonbury for us , especially as a band , we always set out hearts on it .
`` You know , it 's the highlight .
It 's the best festival in the world . ''
To mark what would have been Glastonbury weekend , the BBC is repeating dozens of classic sets from the festival 's history on TV , radio and the iPlayer over the next four days .
Performances by David Bowie , Beyonce , Kylie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stones , Stormzy and Arctic Monkeys will be broadcast over the weekend , alongside documentaries and acoustic performances from the BBC 's archive .
`` We 're going to be catching up on loads of old sets online , '' said Eavis .
`` I 'm really pleased the BBC have managed to put so many sets up because ... we never watch the coverage when everyone else is watching at home .
`` So it 's actually a really nice opportunity to be able to sit down and watch some of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Oasis to Springsteen , Adele , Amy Winehouse - so many good ones over the years .
`` It 's a good time to take it all in . ''
In a separate interview with the NME Eavis said this year 's festival would have reflected the Black Lives Matter movement , had it gone ahead .
`` There are so many issues at the moment and I know that we would have been continuing our campaigning on climate change and expanding our work banning the use of plastic across the site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inspired by Black Lives Matter and working as festival in the fight against racism , so that would have been prominent in our plans too . ''
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"Because we're rolling two festivals together, we've got a hell of a lot of surprises that we were planning for the 50th and I think we're going to try and get those things going for next year," she told BBC 6 Music.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--‘I was spat at directing beach traffic in Dorset'

A local councillor in Dorset has told BBC Radio 5 Live about a “ pretty horrible ” experience as she @ @ @ @ @ yesterday .
Laura Miller , a Conservative councillor , said some people were `` unwilling @ @ @ @ @ roads were closed for public safety around Durdle Door .
She told 5 Live 's @ @ @ @ @ of the public spat at her .

A local councillor in Dorset has told BBC Radio 5 Live about a “pretty horrible” experience as she volunteered to direct beach traffic yesterday.
Laura Miller, a Conservative councillor, said some people were "unwilling to accept" that the roads were closed for public safety around Durdle Door.
She told 5 Live's Rachel Burden that one member of the public spat at her.


bbcuk--2020-06-24--Coronavirus: 'When lockdown ends, I can cuddle my wife again'

A man who travelled every day to see his wife in a nursing home has spoken of his heartbreak at @ @ @ @ @ during the last three months .
Roger Clarke was used to walking miles to see @ @ @ @ @ wife Bronwyn , who has dementia , at the home in Baildon , near Bradford @ @ @ @ @ stem the spread of coronavirus mean that he has not been able to see her @ @ @ @ @ 'm finding it really hard without her .
The sooner this virus and lockdown is @ @ @ @ @ will be for me , '' he said .

A man who travelled every day to see his wife in a nursing home has spoken of his heartbreak at being unable to see her during the last three months.
Roger Clarke was used to walking miles to see and help look after his wife Bronwyn, who has dementia, at the home in Baildon, near Bradford.
However, restrictions to stem the spread of coronavirus mean that he has not been able to see her for weeks.
"I'm finding it really hard without her. The sooner this virus and lockdown is ended, the better it will be for me," he said.


bbcuk--2020-06-25--Coronavirus: Community shop 'heroes' keep villagers going

People living in a rural village say volunteers at a community shop have been `` heroes '' during the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ O'Leary have made 200 grocery deliveries to elderly and self-isolating people during lockdown .
The @ @ @ @ @ Thurlton Community Store in Norfolk has been given a £750 grant from the Prince 's @ @ @ @ @ for deliveries as long as they are needed .
Resident Pauline Warner said : `` @ @ @ @ @ ... That is very very touching . ''
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People living in a rural village say volunteers at a community shop have been "heroes" during the coronavirus pandemic.
Ann and John O'Leary have made 200 grocery deliveries to elderly and self-isolating people during lockdown.
The Good Neighbour Scheme at the Thurlton Community Store in Norfolk has been given a £750 grant from the Prince's Countryside Fund to help pay for deliveries as long as they are needed.
Resident Pauline Warner said: "I call them my heroes... That is very very touching."
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