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[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-29T12:46:45 | null | 2016-08-29T12:46:32 | Villa are looking to boost their attacking options | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fboss-remains-coy-over-aston-11814478.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article10592253.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS78708517.jpg | en | null | Boss remains coy over Aston Villa wing target Albert Adomah | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka is remaining tight-lipped about speculation linking Albert Adomah with a move to Aston Villa.
Adomah has emerged as a potential target for Villa as they look to boost their attacking options before Wednesday's transfer deadline.
The 28-year-old winger was omitted from the Boro squad for their Premier League draw against West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns yesterday.
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Asked in his post match press conference whether Adomah would be allowed to leave before the window closes on Wednesday night, Karanka answered: “I don’t know.
Middlesbrough's Albert Adomah
“I don’t know because before we travelled here I preferred to focus on the game and now we have two days off.
“The club is working very well so for that reason on Wednesday I will come back and I will see.”
Further questioned on whether Adomah was left out because of injury, Karanka added: “No, it was my decision (not to select him).” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/boss-remains-coy-over-aston-11814478 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b2139d71cfafa4d8154d5aced324b30888f0417272490dce42ea214f80dba735.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-28T22:46:39 | null | 2016-08-28T21:51:31 | Decorating can set you back a few quid - but this is how for today you can paint one of your rooms and get all the money back | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Funique-giveaway-means-you-can-11813178.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11813182.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/dulux.jpg | en | null | Unique giveaway means you can get FREE paint this bank holiday | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Bank holidays - what better time to do that job you've been putting off for months?
The only snag is it can cost you.
Millions of UK households are set to tackle DIY chores around the home this Saturday and Sunday - and we've uncovered one way to save you cash.
Decorating brand Dulux has launched a three day Dulux Paint+ Cashback Challenge - giving you ALL your money back when you send in a snap of your newly painted Dulux room.
To enjoy the saving, paint your room at any point between 26-29 August using any two Dulux Endurance+, Kitchen+, Bathroom+, Light and Space or Once paints, share a picture with the Dulux team and get your money back - and there's no catch.
How to get your free paint pot | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/unique-giveaway-means-you-can-11813178 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/02f7edfc8b850bf38c14778299a62848708935e8e18eb59d8d19dc19485ce22c.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-29T12:47:45 | null | 2016-08-29T11:28:45 | Albion writer Paul Suart has rated the Baggies players - and so can you | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwest-brom-0-middlesbrough-0-11814096.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811647.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98134855.jpg | en | null | West Brom 0 Middlesbrough 0: Player ratings as Albion have to settle for point in dour draw | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | FOSTER 6
Kept his second clean sheet in three games without ever being tested, save for a close-range effort from Ayala.
DAWSON 6
Turned too easily by Negredo, but that was about the only time he was caused problems. Went close with a header.
Craig Dawson of West Bromwich Albion
EVANS 7
Looked at home in the heart of defence. Rarely lost a tussle, missed a header or gave the ball away.
West Bromwich Albion's Jonny Evans (left) and Middlesbrough's Gaston Ramirez
MCAULEY 7
Only once did Negredo’s deceptive pace catch him out. Almost always in the right place to mop up.
Alvaro Negredo of Middlesbrough challenges for the ball with Gareth McAuley of West Bromwich Albion
GALLOWAY 7
Very encouraging Premier League debut. Not afraid to venture forward, though his risk taking left spaces for Boro.
West Bromwich Albion's Brendan Galloway (left) and Middlesbrough's Gaston Ramirez
FLETCHER 5
If he was below his usual high standards last week, he set new lows this week playing further forward. Just not at the races.
West Bromwich Albion's Darren Fletcher (right) and Middlesbrough's Adam Forshaw
YACOB 6
Saw more of the ball thanks to Field’s dominance, but he did not always know what to do with it.
Gaston Ramirez of Middlesbrough challenges Claudio Yacob of West Bromwich Albion
PHILLIPS 6
Nearly beat his man, nearly delivered the killer ball, nearly showed his potential. Signs there’s more to come.
Matt Phillips of West Bromwich Albion takes a corner
FIELD 8
Is he really 18? Displayed a maturity in midfield way beyond his years. Excellent first touch and even better distribution.
West Bromwich Albion's Sam Field
MCCLEAN 7
Nearly beat the Boro defence on his own early on. Linked well with Galloway, but faded a little.
West Bromwich Albion's James McClean (centre) gets away from Middlesbrough's Adam Clayton (right)
RONDON 6
Started brightly, winning headers and holding up play, but dropped off. Never a threat, but the service to him was poor.
Subs
Leko (for McClean, 64) Injury forced the young winger off before he had chance to make any sort of impact.
Berahino (for Leko, 71) His arrival was accompanied by boos after his cup misery midweek. Did little to win the fans round.
Gardner (for Field, 76) Did at least add some balance to the midfield, but came on just when Boro were flourishing.
Saido Berahino on as a substitute for Jonathan Leko
Subs not used
Rose, Olsson, Lambert, Wilson.
Bookings
Yacob (foul, 65) - Albion
Ayala (foul, 2), Ramirez (foul, 47) Barragan (dissent, 77) - Boro
Middlesbrough
Guzan, Ayala, Gibson (c), Barragan, Nsue, Clayton, Forshaw, Ramirez (Nugent, 84), Stuani (Fischer, 90+4), Downing, Negredo.
Middlesbrough's Cristhian Stuani
The manager
His team now has balance, but a cutting edge is still missing up top. Didn’t help that his first choice for inspiration lasted only five minutes.
Tony Pulis
Crowd watch
Tried to remain positive but, like so many times last season, were given so little action to seek their teeth into.
Empty seats amongst West Bromwich Albion fans
The referee
Anthony Taylor, berated by Pulis on his last visit to The Hawthorns, left on happier terms this time round after an uneventful match that must be every officials dream.
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Attendance
23,690 | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-brom-0-middlesbrough-0-11814096 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/d17b96b463fec66c2d232aa35cb98cb68db7a47976d4b3a970cb23012d437b55.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-30T10:47:24 | null | 2016-08-30T10:18:25 | The former loanee is about to join Bayern Munich on a permanent deal | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwest-bromwich-albion-former-player-11817111.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article9833146.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS69821954.jpg | en | null | West Bromwich Albion: Former player ready to leave Arsenal and join German giants Bayern Munich | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Former West Bromwich Albion loanee Serge Gnabry is set to join European giants Bayern Munich from Premier League club Arsenal.
Gnabry signed for Albion on a temporary basis from rivals Arsenal last summer but failed to make an impact under Tony Pulis.
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The 21-year-old was one of a number of loanees to join the club last season to not be used by the manager.
He starred at the Olympics for Germany as they narrowly lost out in the gold medal match to Brazil.
But his performances there have convinced Bayern to splash out.
He will be immediately loaned out to Bundesliga rivals Werder Bremen.
The Gunners signed the midfielder from Stuttgart back in 2011, but he hasn't made a serious impact at the Emirates Stadium. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-bromwich-albion-former-player-11817111 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b0578a002916939cdca5c6f9458ea93740848cae8197d0acf60d2ac755caf4e7.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-30T10:50:47 | null | 2016-08-30T11:14:13 | The Villa boss could allow a number of his youngsters to leave on loan in the next 48 hours | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Faston-villa-transfer-news-di-11816654.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808987.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98075842.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa transfer news: Di Matteo will consider letting these youngsters leave on loan | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Boss Roberto Di Matteo will today make a decision on whether to allow some of his U23s to move out on loan.
The Villa gaffer waited until after yesterday’s Premier League 2 win against Newcastle United to make up his mind.
And in the next 48 hours he will listen and weigh up the offers that come in.
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“We wanted to wait (until Tuesday) before deciding,” said Di Matteo last week.
“We will now decide whether the players will benefit from a loan or staying and training with us in the days and weeks ahead.
“It also depends what loan requests we get for these players.”
Both Jordan Lyden and Rushian Hepburn-Murphy are thought to be in high demand but Di Matteo could keep them around the first-team group to take a closer look at their progression.
Andre Green is very much a part of the senior group these days and won’t be going anywhere before the transfer window closes tomorrow.
With the loan window also closing, some players will be eager to move, in order to show what they’re made of in first-team football.
Easah Suliman, Niall Mason, Kevin Toner, Henry Cowans and Riccardo Calder have already made short-term moves. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-di-11816654 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4e29f8e616d507caec377771bbac1cd9ed25d16aee9cc8cf42211cd8927ca951.json |
[
"Jane Tyler"
] | 2016-08-30T10:47:04 | null | 2016-08-30T11:19:00 | It follows stabbing incident at the Alexander Stadium | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Ftop-athlete-face-trial-birmingham-11817350.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11090971.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Lauren-Jeska-Alexander-Stadium.jpg | en | null | Top athlete to face trial in Birmingham accused of attempted murder | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Lauren Jeska (left) and the Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr
A former champion fell runner appeared at Birmingham Crown Court today charged with trying to kill an ex-England rugby star.
Lauren Jeska, 41, appeared via video link to face three charges relating to an incident earlier this year at the city’s Alexander Stadium.
It happened in March, when former England rugby player and UK Athletics official, Ralph Knibbs, was stabbed, as well as Tim Begley and Kevan Taylor, two of his colleagues.
Jeska, of Wesley Terrace, Machynlleth, Powys, Wales, has been charged with the attempted murder of Mr Knibbs and also of wounding Mr Begley and Mr Taylor with intent, as well as possession of three bladed articles.
Jeska was the Women’s 2010, 2011 and 2012 English Fell Running Champion and won the British Championship in 2012.
Police and paramedics were called to the Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr which is the HQ of UK Athletics and regularly hosts Olympic-level events.
Alexander Stadium
Mr Knibbs, aged 51, was the head of human resources and welfare for UK Athletics.
At the hearing today, Jeska spoke only to confirm her name.
No plea was entered and the court was told a two-week trial was scheduled to start on September 22.
Judge Peter Parker QC said that trial would be at Birmingham and Jeska would be remanded in custody until that date.
Mr Knibbs represented England at under-23 level and played 436 times for Bristol Rugby Football Club and scored 123 tries during his career spanning the 1970s and 1980s.
He famously turned down the chance to go on tour with England to South Africa in 1984 because he opposed apartheid.
He also ruled himself out of the 1988 England tour of Australia and Fiji due to work commitments, making him one of the only players to ever turn down England twice.
In 2007 he was named in The Sunday Times top ten centres of all time. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/top-athlete-face-trial-birmingham-11817350 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8e910e8927157f67d3ed131fcf4a137e54ac86d2728e00c7d98a228e0eb77338.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-29T10:46:43 | null | 2016-08-29T10:34:50 | A closer look at the Spain international Albion have tracked for 12 months | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Ftransfer-analysis-lowdown-west-brom-11813463.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article10245038.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS74295943.jpg | en | null | Transfer analysis: The lowdown on West Brom target Ignacio Camacho | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion are set to make Spanish midfielder Ignacio Camacho their record signing after reportedly activating a £15.35 million release clause in his contract at Malaga.
The 26-year-old is expected to arrive hot on the heels of Tottenham winger Nacer Chadli, after a £13 million fee was agreed between the Premier League clubs.
Camacho has been on Albion's radar for the past 12 months.
Here's more information about the Spain international.
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Career
Born in Zaragoza, Camacho started out with his hometown club before joining the youth set-up at Atletico Madrid in 2005.
After featuring initially in the B team, Camacho made his first team debut in March 2008
On May 3, 2008, one day shy of his 18th birthday, Camacho scored his first La Liga goals in a 3-0 win over Recreativo de Huelva.
Injury and a loss of form saw Camacho's opportunities limited over the next two seasons and in January 2011 he joined Malaga.
Ignacio Camacho of Spain in action during the UEFA European Under-21 Championship
Camacho became a far more integral member of a Malaga team that included Salomon Rondon.
His displays in the heart of midfield eventually earned Camacho a call-up to the full national side.
His one and only senior international cap to date came in a 1-0 friendly defeat to world champions Germany in November 2014.
Best position
Right-footed Camacho is a defensive midfielder happy to protect the back four.
Ignacio Camacho of Spain
Attributes
The Spaniard sticks his head in where it hurts to disrupt the opposition.
His bravery, graft and commitment should suit the demands of Tony Pulis as well as the physicality and roughness of the Premier League.
He also has a decent range of passing and, like many Spaniards, is technically proficient.
Tony Pulis
Weaknesses
Like with any tough-tackling holding midfielder, Camacho is a card risk.
He was sent off in a 3-3 draw with Deportivo in March, in a game he scored in, and also clocked up 12 cautions in 2014/15.
He's not the fastest, but his sense of anticipation helps him to steal a yard on his opponents.
Where would he fit in?
Camacho is very similar in style and aggression to Claudio Yacob.
Gaston Ramirez of Middlesbrough challenges Claudio Yacob of West Bromwich Albion
Three years Yacob's junior, Camacho is a younger model with more mobility and better distribution.
He would appear an upgrade on the Argentinian.
What does the manager know of him?
Pulis has been keeping tabs on Camacho for a while now.
It's thought Pulis considered a bid last summer and had him scouted when he returned to action last October.
Pulis sought the advice of former Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini when he signed Rondon, after the pair worked together at Malaga.
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini and West Brom manager Tony Pulis before the match
And it's quite conceivable Pulis will have contacted the Chilean for feedback on another one of his former charges who has started both of Mala's La Liga matches so far this season.
Medical history
Part of Camacho's time at Atletico was rocked by injury.
He missed the start of the 2015/16 La Liga season while recovering from surgery on his pelvis, but has stayed relatively free of injury during his five-and-a-half-years at Malaga. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/transfer-analysis-lowdown-west-brom-11813463 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/5033c90837a4a2c972a94480126826706fb0aa5003ab8dc386d710b93ae2bb5d.json |
[
"Brett Gibbons"
] | 2016-08-31T08:47:34 | null | 2016-08-31T08:57:00 | Sinatra, Bowie and even Monty Python are increasingly the choice for funerals | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fits-your-funeral-youre-more-11821558.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article10583899.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Frank-Sinatra-1.jpg | en | null | It's your funeral - and you're more likely to choose pop music than hymns to send you on your way | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Frank Sinatra's My Way tops the music choice for many at funerals
Pop songs are becoming the most popular music played at funerals, with people actually drawing up their own playlists, new research by a Midlands-based funeral organiser has revealed.
Frank Sinatra’s My Way topped a funeral song chart compiled by Co-op Funeralcare, ahead of Time To Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, and Over The Rainbow by Eva Cassidy.
A study among 300 Co-op funeral directors and 2,000 adults showed increasing numbers of people having a playlist ready for their funeral.
The firm has branches across Birmingham and the Black Country.
Traditional hymns appear to be on the wane at funerals
Two out of five said they wanted to “raise a laugh” at their funeral, explaining why Monty Python’s Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life remains one of the most popular songs, with one in 10 saying they would consider The Jam’s Going Underground.
The Monty Python team - always looking on the bright side of life
Theme tunes from TV programmes such as Game Of Thrones could become more popular in the future, the Co-op predicted.
A list of the most popular funeral songs by pop artists included Robbie Williams, Westlife, Adele and Rihanna.
Would music from Rihanna accompany you as you bow out..?
David Collingwood, the Co-op’s head of funeral operations, said: “Funerals are very much about personal choice and reflecting the personality, hobbies and interests of a person.
“More so than ever we’re seeing people pre-plan their funeral music and, in the last 12 months, 42 per cent of our funeral directors and arrangers have received ready-made pre-planned funeral playlists.
“Whilst My Way is back at number one, it’s really interesting that the passing of celebrities and artists is having an effect on the music charts.
“Wiz Khalifa’s track See You Again, dedicated to the late Paul Walker, has made it into the contemporary pop charts whilst the late David Bowie’s Ashes To Ashes has also been requested by clients in the last 12 months.”
Watch the colourful funeral of DJ Earl "Dingy" Dingwall
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Liverpool FC’s You’ll Never Walk Alone is top of the sport category, having overtaken the Match Of The Day theme tune, and popular soap Coronation Street’s theme tune is top of the funeral TV charts.
Almost two-thirds of Co-op’s funeral directors and arrangers have had requests for music to be played via digital devices including smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Hymns are becoming less popular, although The Lord Is My Shepherd was the fifth most popular request this year.
Most popular funeral songs
1. My Way - Frank Sinatra
2. Time to say goodbye - Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman
3. Over the rainbow - Eva Cassidy
4. Wind beneath my wings - Bette Midler
5. The lord is my shepherd - Psalm 23/ Crimond
6. We’ll meet again - Vera Lynn
7. All things bright and beautiful - Traditional
8. Always look on the bright side of life - Monty Python
9. Abide with me - Traditional
10. Unforgettable - Nat King Cole | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/its-your-funeral-youre-more-11821558 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8fbd0c7dfbe444b1b4dd7e3c2f4c1bb0f0f69bf9d52a5548ac67aa65179d1eaa.json |
[
"David Bentley"
] | 2016-08-31T04:47:33 | null | 2016-08-31T04:00:00 | How to get one of the new Birmingham mugs from Starbucks - how much is it and which Starbucks will have it? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fhow-free-coffee-starbucks-launches-11818290.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/article11818428.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/ET2I3842JPG.jpg | en | null | How to get a FREE coffee from Starbucks when it launches new Birmingham souvenir coffee mug | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham Moor Street is one of the landmarks to feature on the new Starbucks souvenir mug
Some of Birmingham’s top landmarks are being immortalised on a new collectible mug launched by Starbucks.
The first 50 customers to buy one of the mugs will get a FREE coffee.
The souvenir is part of the coffee chain’s 'City Mugs' range and has been designed by local Starbucks managers and baristas.
The launch follows a long campaign by district manager Kerry Foynes, who wanted to celebrate her city.
Here’s all you need to know.
When is the new Birmingham ‘City Mug’ being launched?
It will be available in stores from Thursday, September 1.
How much is it and where can I get it?
Birmingham city centre Starbucks staff with the new souvenir mug
The Starbucks Birmingham city collectors mug costs £9.95 and is available to purchase from the following stores:
Birmingham New Street
Birmingham The Bullring
Birmingham Colmore Row
Birmingham The Fort Shopping Park
Birmingham Selfridges, Bullring
Birmingham Bullring (Kiosk)
Touchwood, Solihull
Gracechurch Centre, Sutton Coldfield
What’s depicted on the mug?
Birmingham Town Hall is another of the landmarks to feature on the Starbucks mug
The Birmingham landmarks featured on the new mug include:
* The Bullring bull
* The Grade I listed Birmingham Town Hall (inspired by the Roman Forum Temple of Castor and Pollux)
* Cadbury World
* Boulton and Watt steam engine on the Dartmouth Circus roundabout
* Spaghetti Junction
* Moor Street railway station
So what’s this about a free coffee?
Kerry Foynes, district manager of Starbucks, with the new Birmingham mug
To celebrate the launch of the new mug, Starbucks will be offering a free tall espresso drink (including Americano, Caffe Latte, Cappuccino or Mocha) to the first 50 customers to purchase the mug on September 1.
Best places for coffee and cake in Birmingham
How did they choose what to put on it?
Moor Street Railway Station was nominated by Rachel Ward, manager at Starbucks New Street store, after she ran away there from her now-husband due to first-date nerves. The station also received a special mention in his wedding speech.
Starbucks manager Kate White has fond memories of childhood visits to Cadbury World and Bourneville, where her great-grandfather worked in the chocolate factory in the early 1900s.
The bronze bull sculpture of the Bullring was an obvious choice for Michael McEntee who manages the Starbucks store in Birmingham’s famous shopping centre.
And when it came to choosing the colours, Starbucks Bullring store manager Kate Sewell was influenced by the colours of her favourite football team, Aston Villa.
What Starbucks said
Starbucks staff with the new collectible Birmingham mug
Kerry Foynes, district manager of Starbucks, said: "We love our city and we’re so proud and excited to launch the first Starbucks city collectors mug for Birmingham - made all the more special because we designed it ourselves and it’s the first of its kind in England.
"My team had a lot of fun designing the mug and creating something that celebrates Birmingham and our history, for customers around the world.
"We hope our customers like the City Mug as much as we do and that they will come in and tell us their favourite landmarks and memories." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/how-free-coffee-starbucks-launches-11818290 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f77d66cf0f2a84c02fb71ad886a91751c5d48ff6194d5fe41c0e654342e9b8be.json |
[
"Tamlyn Jones"
] | 2016-08-30T10:50:58 | null | 2016-08-30T11:05:31 | Transport chiefs say hub must be called 'Birmingham Airport & NEC' as part of measures to bring major changes to InterCity West Coast franchise | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fcalls-birmingham-international-station-renamed-11816896.json | http://i3.birminghampost.co.uk/incoming/article7337472.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/BP2241237.jpg | en | null | Calls for Birmingham International station to be renamed | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham International should sport a new name according to transport chiefs
Birmingham International train station should be renamed 'Birmingham Airport & NEC' to reflect its importance to the region, say transport chiefs.
The proposal is one of several outlined in a response to the Government's consultation on the InterCity West Coast franchise - the line which runs services from London to Scotland via Birmingham.
West Midlands Rail (WMR), which will oversee rail transport in the region from next year, also wants to see an inter-city hub for the Black Country.
WMR chairman Coun Mark Winnington said: "Renaming the station would increase its profile as an interchange for the airport and the National Exhibition Centre which are two key assets of the regional economy.
"It is part of a package of our aspirations to improve late night and early morning services there.
"The station is of major strategic importance and needs to be modernised to meet the needs of all users and to be ready for the arrival of HS2."
Watch: Graeme Brown races the Midland Metro
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He said the new authority also wanted better recognition of the importance of Sandwell & Dudley station as an inter-city hub for the Black Country.
"This requires station modernisation, better facilities, and consideration of how other modes of transport can better integrate with the railway," he added.
"Addressing these issues and enhancing the opportunity for modal interchange would see Sandwell & Dudley move towards realising its potential as a significant regional inter-city hub."
Other responses from WMR include:
Opposition to any reduction of stopping patterns at stations
Stations receiving inter-city services during the day should have the last train stop there at night to ensure passengers had more choices and to support the evening economy in the region
Minimum service levels need to be specified to prevent passengers losing out to decisions taken purely on a commercial basis by the operator, such as services to Shrewsbury and Telford Central
Clearer and simpler ticketing.
WMR is a consortium of 14 local authorities from across the region which will be responsible, in partnership with the Government, for overseeing local rail services once the new local franchise starts in 2017.
The consultation sought the views of groups including passengers, communities, businesses, rail groups, councils and local enterprise partnerships along the route.
The West Coast franchise is currently run by Virgin Trains, which operates long-distance high-speed services between London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, North Wales, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
It is due to end in April 2018. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/calls-birmingham-international-station-renamed-11816896 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/2475251cd46978454ac2e71370e7ee642ff480a0284c646f8be8b55175e7e84b.json |
[
"Nick Mccarthy"
] | 2016-08-29T16:48:27 | null | 2016-08-29T17:05:00 | Summer puts more strain on staff rotas amid concerns over 'excessive workloads' | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fpolice-forced-recruit-retired-officers-11815734.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article10022538.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Police1.jpg | en | null | Police forced to recruit retired officers to cope with shortages | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Midlands Police has been recruiting retired officers in a bid to cope with increased summer demand.
Details of the forces drive to recruit ex-staff members on temporary contracts were revealed in a letter from the Police Federation that raised “significant concerns” about the forces current “resourcing deficiencies”.
The recruitment plans for 140 members of temporary staff were first raised in June in a blog from Deputy Chief Constable Louisa Rolfe who said the new posts would fill gaps in support functions in order to keep officers and staff in key operational roles,
Now the man who represents rank and file police officers has written to Chief Constable David Thompson to ask him to delay a major programme of planned changes because “excessive workloads” were having a “detrimental effect on the health and well-being” of staff.
Tom Cudderford, interim chair of the West Midlands branch of the Police Federation , urged the chief constable to delay the first phase of the 2020 programme, which is set to be launched at the end of November.
He said summer pressures and demands linked to October’s Conservative Party Conference were having a “detrimental effect on the health and wellbeing of officers.”
The five-year 2020 programme is a partnership with consultancy firm Accenture UK that will help restructure the force, cut costs and introduce new technology. Its first transition stage is set to go live on November 28, but Mr Cudderford said in his letter - which the Federation made public - that the programme should be delayed.
He says: “We acknowledge the efforts in trying to recruit transferees, and the recruitment of some retired officers on short term contracts to increase the force’s capacity over the summer.
“We note the serious pressures on the force’s resilience over the summer period together with the requirements of Operation Pelkin (Conservative Party Conference).
“The current intention is for the force to move to the 2020 Transition Stage 1 on November 28. We believe to make this transition on the approach to Christmas and all the demands that goes with that is ill-conceived.
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“The significant resourcing deficiencies are a real cause for concern for our ability to provide efficient and effective police services. For many colleagues their norm is excessive workload, infrequent breaks and potential inability to take leave. These all have a detrimental effect on their health and well being.
“We ask that the implementation of stage 1 is reviewed and delayed.”
But the Chief Constable hit back at the Federation saying the force had gone to “considerable lengths” to ensure staff are fully aware of the programme.
He described staff as precious and also ruled out any deferral of the launch of 2020 saying it would not be sensible.
He said: “WMP2020 - the force’s major change programme − has been undergoing planning for a considerable length of time. The federation have been involved in that process right from the start and continue to be fully engaged.
“The first wave of transition is planned for the end of November and is driven both by a desire to create a more modern organisation able to focus on prevention, but also to address a substantial reduction in staffing which makes current operating arrangements unsustainable. WMP2020 is also about caring for our precious people who police our streets.
“Wholesale deferral of these essential changes is neither sensible nor does it actually address the federation’s concerns about resilience.
“We have gone to considerable length to ensure staff are fully aware of the programme and its implications for them.
“The recent staff survey shows a very positive level of awareness. The WMP2020 events have been well attended and regular briefings, communication and updates are held to keep staff abreast of change. Around 80% of staff affected by the changes are not moving location and much work has been put in place to secure continuity.”
Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson pledged during his re-election campaign earlier this year to increase the recruitment of full time permanent officers from 450 to 1,000.
A spokesman for his office said a detailed breakdown of those recruitment plans would be revealed in his police and crime plan, which will be published next month. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/police-forced-recruit-retired-officers-11815734 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/884f4ca5b30aa0a140201e8cf8a73c44bba8d8e311674e37c48dc71fc24e1d99.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-30T12:49:27 | null | 2016-08-30T12:45:00 | What are RDM and TX planning before the transfer window closes tomorrow? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwhat-expect-aston-villa-transfer-11817199.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article8595048.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/The-tunnel-as-Aston-Villas-Villa-Park.jpg | en | null | What to expect at Aston Villa on transfer deadline day | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Aston Villa’s busy summer is showing no signs of letting up as we enter the penultimate day of the transfer window.
The claret and blues will be busy in the next 48 hours as boss Roberto Di Matteo looks to add the final pieces to the jigsaw, backed by enthusiastic owner Tony Xia.
Villa have already recruited seven new players since trading began in July and there will be further arrivals before tomorrow’s deadline.
So what can we expect?
A new striker
It’s no secret that Villa want and need a new goal-getter. Since Rudy Gestede injured his hamstring, the forward line has looked a little light.
Although Libor Kozak scored a hat-trick for the U23s yesterday, he hasn’t been able to make an impact in his two senior appearances from the bench.
Rushian Hepburn-Murphy hasn’t even featured in the matchday 18 so it’s been left to Jordan Ayew and Ross McCormack (playing just behind the striker) to fill the void.
Villa held talks with Abel Hernandez but are thought to have hit a brick wall.
Bordeaux’s Diego Rolan was linked with a move to the club today and Bristol City's Jonathan Kodjia is also on the radar, with talk of a hefty bid.
A playmaker
Villa are interested in Middlesbrough wideman Albert Adomah. On Sunday he was left out of the squad that drew 0-0 with Albion at The Hawthorns fuelling speculation that he would be on his way out of the club, although there has since been suggestions that he is ready to stay at Boro.
Di Matteo wants attacking flair and different options which is why Adomah fits the bill. Other creative midfielders are under consideration.
Loans
Aston Villa manager Roberto Di Matteo during the match at Bristol City
Don’t be surprised if Villa use the loan window to their advantage.
Both Di Matteo and his assistant Steve Clarke have close links with some of the Premier League big-boys and they could decide to take a gamble on a youngster for a few months.
A number of Villa’s youngsters could also leave on a temporary basis. Di Matteo said: “It depends what requests we get for some of these players.”
Youngsters
Paddy Riley, the director of recruitment and scouting, has been busy checking out a number of future targets in recent weeks.
Riley has been seen at a number of U23 games as the club continues to look to the future.
Villa have their eye on a number of talented youngsters but it’s unlikely they’ll make a move until the next window.
Departures
After a long, drawn-out summer, Di Matteo has finally managed to rid the majority of the cast-offs from his group.
Gabby Agbonlahor still remains at the club and his future is uncertain.
Micah Richards has been linked with a number of clubs this summer but he could stick around to provide much-needed cover in defence.
If he was to depart, that would leave Villa light at the back, especially with youngsters Kevin Toner, Niall Mason and Easah Suliman all out on loan.
Jordan Ayew’s name is still being linked with other clubs, including Hull, however both owner Tony Xia and Di Matteo insist he is going nowhere.
Transfer deadline day always throws up a shock or two, so let’s see what tomorrow brings. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/what-expect-aston-villa-transfer-11817199 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/a64e25aa9db8914b7726f58a864d0cccaa713bb8d8c108f27517b08fe4da1e67.json |
[
"Luke Beardsworth"
] | 2016-08-31T10:47:15 | null | 2016-08-31T11:18:22 | High hopes from the returning hero | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Frichard-stearman-back-wolves-hes-11822687.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11453267.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Richard-Stearman-of-Wolverhampton-Wanderers.jpg | en | null | Richard Stearman is back at Wolves and he's got his eyes on the Premier League | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Richard Stearman has finalised his return to Wolves on a season-long loan from Fulham.
The 29-year-old left less than a year ago for the Cottagers after being deemed surplus to requirements.
He enjoyed 212 league appearances for the club across three divisions between 2008 and 2015.
In his final season at Wolves before the move, the defender won both the Fans' Player of the Year and the Players' Player of the Year.
And he has high ambitions now he's back at the club.
Stearman said: “It feels amazing to be back. I think everybody knows what this club means to me.
“When I heard there was a chance it could happen, I didn’t want to let it pass up. I told my agent to make it happen whatever it takes and here I am.
Wolves takeover explained
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“I’m delighted to be here, ready to crack on and hopefully can help to get us promoted.
“I know people say not to go back in life but why would I not want to come back?
“I had a great seven or eight years here, I spent a large portion of my life at this club and I’ve got nothing but happy memories so I just want to pick up where I left off.
“I’m looking forward to getting back out at Molineux and hearing that roar from the South Bank.”
Transfer deadline day continues. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/richard-stearman-back-wolves-hes-11822687 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/0277be471e5d29c5900a4d2fc5aa4041d1825bfd223cd93927858c3c96bc59f3.json |
[
"Steve Hodgkinson"
] | 2016-08-31T08:47:44 | null | 2016-08-31T08:41:23 | Birmingham Monarchs riders have been shooting for individual glory in national competitions. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fcycle-speedway-birmingham-monarchs-not-11821715.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article8543180.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Birmingham-Mail.png | en | null | Cycle Speedway: Birmingham Monarchs not quite up to full speed | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The last two weekends have seen Birmingham Monarchs riders going for individual glory in national competitions in the north and south regions.
Youngsters Connor Steel and Dylan Hawtin travelled to the Astley and Tydsley club near Wigan a fortnight ago for round 3 of the BYJL Nationals in the U10s’ category.
Dylan was on the verge of qualifying for the B final when a heavy tumble resulted in a trip to the nearby hospital with a suspected wrist injury.
Connor, meanwhile, qualified for the A final where he took fourth place.
However, the overall points tally after three rounds sees him one point off a podium finish in the fourth and final round.
Dylan, however, will be missing in that final round where it was hoped he could have stayed in the top 10.
Last weekend saw some Birmingham riders take part in the British Championships events.
Mark Winwood was the most successful, taking third place in the Over-40s final at Swindon on Saturday in rain-affected conditions.
He was able to pass current veteran World Champion Craig Marchant to secure a podium finish.
Chris Timms sailed through the semi-final at Poole on Sunday before finishing fourth in Monday’s senior final.
Steve Hodgkinson lost a run-off to finish on the podium in the over-50s final and also finished fourth.
The Monarchs return to Midland League action on Sunday with a visit to Leicester, a team who have lost just two matches this season.
A win will be required if the Birmingham side have any realistic hope of contending for the title.
Before that, on Saturday, Monarchs riders will be travelling to Hearsall Common in Coventry for round 3 of the M6 trophy.
The Birmingham riders lead both senior and junior competitions.
Training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm for anyone to join in with free use of bikes and equipment. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/other-sport/cycle-speedway-birmingham-monarchs-not-11821715 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/676560ddbadc709a36c9152fed3fd46a618808fe7b37335ed397d830013f6c8e.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-31T10:48:55 | null | 2016-08-31T10:24:21 | Alex Dicken explains why Odion Ighalo's move to Albion has never been on the cards | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-here-watford-striker-11822306.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article9866681.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS70109028.jpg | en | null | West Brom: Here is why Watford striker Odion Ighalo will not be joining the club on Transfer Deadline Day | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Odion Ighalo of Watford and Darren Fletcher of West Bromwich Albion compete for the ball
Rumours have circled all summer surrounding Watford striker Odion Ighalo and a potential move to West Bromwich Albion.
But this transfer has never been realistic from the first time it was touted.
Albion were reportedly set to make a £32 million bid for the Nigerian last night, but the people creating these rumours are forgetting one significant thing...
Watford rejected a £37.5 million offer from Shanghai SIPG for the forward, so why would they accept an offer more than £5 million less?
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The bid from the Chinese Super League side was rejected on the grounds that Ighalo did not want to go to China, he wants to stay in the Premier League.
But Watford are a club that are trying to climb the Premier League ladder and we saw their ambition when they dismissed bids in excess of £30 million for captain Troy Deeney.
Even if £32 million is what Watford deem acceptable from a top flight rival, the deal is still a no go.
Albion have never paid more than the £13 million they shelled out on Nacer Chadli earlier this week, meaning they are unlikely to throw an extra £19 million at a player who has barely proved himself in the Premier League.
Ighalo scored stacks of goals in the first half of last season but totally flopped in the second half when defences became aware of his style.
Being the astute transfer dealer that Tony Pulis is, it is unlikely that he will go all out on a move for a hit and miss striker.
But this is Transfer Deadline Day and anything can happen, but if I was a betting man, I would steer clear of wasting my money on a move that has never really had any substance. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-here-watford-striker-11822306 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/65817bb33169e4004e071835b088eeb5ab073bbaf586d0456677ab3117cb0bfd.json |
[
"Sanjeeta Bains"
] | 2016-08-26T16:46:45 | null | 2016-08-26T17:16:35 | The presenter looked terrible on the telly - according to her mother | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Fitv-central-news-presentergenelle-aldreds-11806517.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11806193.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Genelle-Aldred.png | en | null | ITV Central news presenter Genelle Aldred's on air fashion disaster | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Genelle Aldred presenting the news in the top that got her into trouble with her mum
Sometimes our harshest critics can be own mothers and this certainly proved true for ITV Central News presenter Genelle Aldred when she presented the local news bulletin on Friday August 26.
The 34-year-old presenter from Handsworth, appeared on our TV screen wearing what we thought was a very nice blouse it seems like her mother didn't agree and sent her daughter a text to let her know.
The reason why I can never be anything but humble... The on the morning feedback of my mother! A photo posted by Genelle Aldred (@genellealdred) on Aug 25, 2016 at 10:47pm PDT
ITV News Central Genelle in a top her mum does approve of
Genelle later posted the text on her instagram account with the caption: "The reason why I can never be anything but humble... The on the morning feedback of my mother!"
The Handsworth born presenter has appeared on our screens for nearly a decade
Don't worry Genelle, for the record we thought you looked great. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/itv-central-news-presentergenelle-aldreds-11806517 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/3fd27f50ac4faeaace3d0d3d8f579fad05349a42572029edf081ee7c44da7c63.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-29T10:47:34 | null | 2016-08-29T10:09:59 | We’ve created a new widget so you can bump in any postcode in our region and find out the answers | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fyour-area-safe-crime-find-11813690.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11690462.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS75823863.jpg | en | null | Is your area safe from crime? Find out with our postcode search tool | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Do you know how many crimes are committed in that area and what sort of offences are most common?
We’ve created a new widget so you can bump in any postcode in our region and find out the answers.
When you’re deciding where to live or whether to carry on living in your current area, safety is obviously a major factor.
We have investigated the 5.6 million street-level crimes recorded by police forces in England and Wales between July 2015 and June 2016 to see how each area ranked in terms of different types of crime.
All you have to do is enter your postcode into the box below to find out what it’s like in an area and the number of crimes compared to the area’s population.
This widget requires javascript to work. Crime data Person vs Property Find out how your area ranks in terms of person and property crime Search Overall person crime for Where you live is ranked for person crime incidents.
(out of neighbourhoods) Includes violent crimes that target individuals Highest Lowest More info ? Person crime Violent crime Includes offences against the person such assaults, physical injuries and sexual offences Robbery Includes offences where a person uses force or threat of force to steal Overall property crime for Where you live is ranked for property crime incidents.
(out of neighbourhoods) The object of the crime is to obtain money, property or some other benefits. Highest Lowest More info ? Property crime Vandalism Includes damage to buildings and vehicles and deliberate damage by fire Burglary Includes offences where a person enters a house or other building with the intention of stealing Vehicle crime Includes theft from or of a vehicle or interference with a vehicle Bicycle theft Includes the taking without consent or theft of a pedal cycle Direct theft Crimes involving theft directly from the victim but without the use or threat of physical force Shoplifting Includes theft from shops or stalls Other theft Includes theft by an employee, blackmail and making off without payment
The analysis looks at person crime, property crime, as well as their underlying categories.
For each type a ranking is provided to compare how more or less likely a crime is to happen in a certain area.
Person crimes are violent crimes that target individuals – it is generally associated with less fortunate areas.
For property crime, the goal is to obtain money, property or some other benefits – it is generally associated with wealthier areas.
While it is true that violent crime will generally be more common in areas with a lower average income, the figures show property crime will happen in different areas, regardless of the economic background. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/your-area-safe-crime-find-11813690 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/7468a2d25f635b93246d97a332a1ea4772fbcccfe56cb63eb6603b5e723770d9.json |
[
"Timothyna Duncan"
] | 2016-08-26T12:57:03 | null | 2016-08-26T10:07:06 | Campaigners to protest 'racist and sexist' policy | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fburkini-ban-demonstration-planned-outside-11802873.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11802913.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/BurkiniJPG.jpg | en | null | Burkini ban: Demonstration planned outside Birmingham's French Consulate | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
The Live Event you are trying to watch is either unavailable or has not started Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
Above: The burkini ban protest in London
Campaigners opposed to France’s burkini ban are to demonstrate outside the French Consulate in Birmingham on Friday afternoon.
The event will be held in Sheepcote Street in the city centre at 5pm as part of a national protest against what Stand Up to Racism called the “racist and sexist” policy.
The demonstration was arranged after armed police were photographed on a beach in Nice forcing a woman to remove her headscarf and other articles of clothing.
France’s highest administrative authority is now studying whether local bans on full-body burkini swimsuits are legal amid fears the restrictions are worsening religious tensions.
Prime Minister Manuel Valls told BFM television that burkinis represented “the enslavement of women” and reiterated his support for mayors who had banned them.
But education minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, a feminist with North African roots, said that, while she did not like the burkini, bans of the garment were politically driven.
Demonstrators stage a beach party outside the French Embassy in protest at the French government's decision to ban women from wearing burkinis.
Women protested against the ban at a makeshift beach outside the French Embassy on Thursday.
Organiser India Thorogood, 25, who planned the event less than 24 hours in advance via a Facebook group, said it was “unacceptable” that men should tell women what to wear, and that French authorities were specifically “targeting” Muslim women.
But the support was not unanimous, as the display was interrupted by a woman who stormed the “beach” and complained that campaigners for women’s rights ought to focus more on education.
Poll loading …
Stand Up to Racism said: “This week we saw armed police surrounding a woman on a beach in Nice and forcing her to remove her clothing.
“This is part of the racist and sexist policy being imposed on Muslim women in France, where so far 15 towns have introduced bans on the Birkini.
“The bans are claiming to be ‘protecting the population of France from terrorism and religious ideas’ but women choosing to cover up on the beach are no threat to anyone.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/burkini-ban-demonstration-planned-outside-11802873 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/151375c6df7c00e33e0473c232e4d8d2cf7fa89bb1f637e45313f477cf444e4a.json |
[
"Joseph Chapman"
] | 2016-08-28T16:46:26 | null | 2016-08-28T16:44:33 | The Baggies boss was speaking about the goalless draw at home to Middlesbrough | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-boss-tony-pulis-11812421.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811650.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98135169.jpg | en | null | West Brom boss Tony Pulis reveals which players could leave Albion | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Tony Pulis reiterated Albion’s need for reinforcements after the 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough and also suggested there may be a few departures from The Hawthorns too.
The Baggies squad was down to the bare bones for the lifeless stalemate at home to Boro, the final game before the international break but more crucially the last before deadline day on Wednesday.
Fringe players such as Callum McManaman and Rickie Lambert could find themselves new homes by then.
Callum McManaman gets away from Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson.
“I expect McManaman to leave - we’ll get our money back on him,” Pulis said.
“We’ve made a profit on Chester. There’s a couple that have come in and it just hasn’t settled.
“Rickie’s the same - and we’ll most probably make some money on Rickie if we’re going to sell him.
“The players we’ve brought in, if they haven’t settled we’re still getting a return.
“Hopefully it’s a really busy couple of days for this football club." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-boss-tony-pulis-11812421 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/1f0b2c8e493f14042400fdad378fe2a6b65dbf3e3e155a8b73c93b5fd1d4cf99.json |
[
"Sanjeeta Bains"
] | 2016-08-31T12:49:08 | null | 2016-08-31T13:05:49 | Danielle reveals how her hero fiance Michael O' Neill is still recovering after saving the model's life during frightening dog attack on Bank Holiday Monday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Fdanielle-lloyd-more-love-ever-11823560.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11823332.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Danielle-Lloyd-and-Michael-O-Neill.jpg | en | null | Danielle Lloyd 'more in love than ever' with fiance after Bank Holiday horror attack | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Days after being viciously attacked by a dog, Danielle Lloyd has revealed to The Birmingham Mail how fiance Michael ‘saved her life’
Electrician Michael O' Neill who proposed to Danielle in March, suffered near fatal injuries in the bloody attack on Bank Holiday Monday.
Danielle told us " We are closer and more in love than ever. I'm so lucky he was there to save me. Michael is my hero. "
The attack happened while the Brum based beauty was just yards away from her home in Little Aston.
Michael was bitten ferociously on the leg and bottom by the pitbull dog who has since been destroyed.
The accident took place just yards away from their home in Little Aston.
Model Danielle Lloyd was attacked by a pit bull dog
Danielle told us: “Michael had to have a tetanus jab but he was bleeding so badly I thought he would need stitches. There was blood everywhere ”
“He literally saved me as he pushed me behind the gate and came between and the dog.
“I’ve never been so scared in my life and just thank god the boys weren’t with us. "
Instagram/missdlloyd Danielle LLoyd
After undergoing IV antibiotics, Michael has now been released from hospital and is recovering at home.
Days before the attack excited Danielle helped to launch celebrity bridal hair specialist Danielle Bishop hair salon in Mere Green. The salon is a big favourite with various celebrities including Danielle.
The mum of three who was formerly married to ex-Wolves star Jamie O’Hara, will be employing the services of the salon for her wedding to Michael. According to rumours a wedding date will be announced shortly.
The former Miss Great Britain has previously spoken of her joy after finding happiness with a “normal” man.
Watch Danielle and Michael's engagement party:
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After recovering from her bank holiday trauma, Danielle was back at work and recently posted photographs - modelling for Ben Mak Designs on her instagram account. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/danielle-lloyd-more-love-ever-11823560 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/6de20cc813ae339e02658ded30fe682e9d22f0ac74e9696adcb0c77984db7aff.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-31T12:48:58 | null | 2016-08-31T11:52:51 | Alex Dicken breaks down all the claret and blue rumours on Transfer Deadline Day | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Faston-villa-transfer-news-premier-11822951.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11763343.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS96963632.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa transfer news: Premier League winger wanted; Adama Traore lifeline; Defender on the way out; Moroccan forward staying put | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Aston Villa's signing of Jonathan Kodjia was their marquee summer signing, and while we don't expect them to break the Championship's transfer record for a third time this window, they might still be busy.
Albert Adomah is looking for a route out of Middlesbrough and could prove a very useful addition should Roberto Di Matteo be able to push through a deal.
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West London Sport seem to think that Villa's interest in the winger has scuppered any hopes that QPR had of landing the former Bristol City man.
Meanwhile, Villa's Adama Traore could be heading the other way. While a swap deal could potentially happen, it is thought that Villa value the former Barcelona winger higher than the price that they's pay for Adomah.
Aitor Karanka is keen to add his countryman to the Boro ranks but won't spend over the odds.
Elsewhere, Micah Richards seems to be on the way out. West Ham are reportedly keen to take the former Manchester City man to London in a bid to solve their right-back problem.
Sport Witness are reporting that Yacine Bammou, apparently a target of Villa and Leeds United, will stay at current club Nantes. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-premier-11822951 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/fbdd2a1e04900bc79500e199ce347a07d9416f6cb003a32b9c7424e8fbe919a1.json |
[
"Birmingham Mail"
] | 2016-08-30T10:48:05 | null | 2016-08-30T09:20:37 | Wolves and Fulham are battling it out to sign Derby striker Chris Martin | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwolves-battling-out-championship-rivals-11816844.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11816828.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Burton-Albion-v-Derby-County-Sky-Bet-Championship.jpg | en | null | Wolves battling it out with Championship rivals to sign striker | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Wolves and Championship rivals Fulham are locked in a tug-of-war after both put in bids for Derby striker Chris Martin.
Wanderers had a £5million offer for Martin rejected by the Rams earlier in the window and have maintained their interest.
Cottagers’ boss Slavisa Jokanovic, meanwhile, has identified Martin as a personal target and is set to lose out on another striker in Asamoah Gyan, who is having a medical at Reading.
It is understood Derby are yet to give an official response to the two bids and are considering the offers.
Martin joined Derby in January 2013 on loan before joining the club permanently that summer on a free transfer. He has since scored 53 goals in 117 appearances.
One deal that has gone through at Molineux, however, is the signing of Bury goalkeeper Jack Ruddy.
Ruddy, 18, has penned a two-year-contract with the option of a third year and will initially join the club’s Under-23 squad.
He is a Scotland U19 international and joined Bury from Spanish side Real Murcia in 2014, going on to make one senior appearance for the Shakers.
“I’m over the moon to be here and to have joined such a big club with really big ambitions,” said Ruddy.
“I have really enjoyed my time at Bury and want to thank everyone there for what they have done for me but the interest from Wolves was always going to be very exciting.
“This is a club which has brought through goalkeepers like Matt Murray, Wayne Hennessey and Carl Ikeme , and that is a big thing to see that pathway for a young keeper coming through.’’ | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/wolves-battling-out-championship-rivals-11816844 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/784a4513ddd6769ef4c208dace37a836944325776a2f9c7ab17da9b23b8bf459.json |
[
"Darren Campbell"
] | 2016-08-30T20:47:50 | null | 2016-08-30T19:50:13 | One man taken to hospital as two lanes shut after one of three incidents on southbound carriageway near Worcester | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fdrivers-stuck-two-hours-after-11821076.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11819874.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/M5CrashCMPG.jpg | en | null | Drivers stuck for TWO hours after string of crashes on M5 | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Scene of accident on the M5 near Worcester
Drivers found themselves stuck on a stretch of Midland motorway for TWO hours after a trio of accidents caused traffic chaos.
Part of the M5 was reduced to one lane after a car and lorry collided just after 3pm on Tuesday afternoon.
Two lanes were shut on the southbound carriageway at junction six for Worcester while the exit slip road was also blocked off as emergency crews worked at the scene.
An ambulance and a paramedic support officer were in attendance along with police and fire crews.
One person was taken to hospital after being cut free from the car but was not believed to have been seriously injured.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “One patient from the car, a man in his 40s, had to be cut out by the fire service.
“He had lower back pain but no serious injuries and he was taken to Worcester Royal Hospital.
@sportingrelic Queues on M5 after accident on southbound carriageway near Worcester
“A second patient from the lorry was ‘walking wounded’ with only minor injuries. He was assessed and discharged at the scene.”
Two lanes remained closed at the scene until after 5pm, sparking queues stretching back to junction 4A for the M42 during the rush hour.
The chaos was not helped by two further accidents on the same carriageway approaching the scene from junction five, with some drivers stuck for over an hour-and-a-half.
@sportingrelic tweeted: “No chance of making Worcester Races for the first at 4.25! Moved 1 mile on M5 southbound in an hour!!!!
“Two hours to go between junctions 6 and 5!!”
Meanwhile drivers heading past the scene on the northbound carriageway were also heavily affected by a broken down lorry in the same area.
The incident blocked one lane between junctions 5 and 4A, with queues back to Worcester. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/drivers-stuck-two-hours-after-11821076 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4b2c858c438a358fe004dbf3de0c5c3f882e2c90fc0bd39de46d11fa5f674a44.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-28T12:46:24 | null | 2016-08-28T13:15:46 | Street sealed off as 999 call reporting shots fired | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fpolice-probe-reports-gunfire-lozells-11811444.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11811465.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Jaddoo1JPG.jpg | en | null | Police probe reports of gunfire in Lozells | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Police are investigating reports of gunfire in a Birmingham street .
West Midlands Police officers were called to Lozells Road, at the junction of Wheeler Street, Lozells , at 7pm on Friday.
The force said a member of the public called to say they had heard gunfire.
The busy road was sealed off while officers conducted a forensic search of the area.
Police said a man later presented himself at hospital with a graze and bruising to his shoulder.
It happened outside homes, the Sri Dasmesh Sikh Temple and near businesses along Lozells Road.
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A vehicle has been seized but police are appealing to anyone who may have information about the incident to come forward.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “We received a 999 call just after 7pm on Friday night, August 26, from a member of the public reporting shots being fired at the junction of Lozells Road and Wheeler Street.
“A man later presented himself to hospital with a graze and bruising to a shoulder; a vehicle has also been seized.
The area is sealed off.
“A police forensics team examined the location of the incident and enquiries are on-going.”
Community activist Desmond Jaddoo was about to attend Friday night prayers at the Assemblies of the First Born Church when he saw the police activity.
Mr Jaddoo said: “I arrived at 8.30pm and saw the police.
“It’s our understanding that shots were fired.
“When I came, there were two police cars, a van and officers searching the car park.
“There were a few residents and passersby who expressed concern that these things still happen.”
Mr Jaddoo works to stop gun and knife crime in inner-city communities.
He added: “There’s still a lot of work to be done in these areas.”
Any witnesses or anyone with information should call the Violent Crime Team at Bournville police station on 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/police-probe-reports-gunfire-lozells-11811444 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/2010d82eabf63ef3c6f066f11e8527bee65e2e9180fad73e361eb3cbeb7165a3.json |
[
"Zoe Chamberlain"
] | 2016-08-31T08:48:14 | null | 2016-08-31T08:30:00 | As The Crystal Maze makes a comeback, we remember the shows we loved as kids | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffamily-kids-news%2F14-kids-tv-programmes-would-11606830.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11821693.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/WA252132.jpg | en | null | 14 kids TV programmes we would love to make a comeback | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The Crystal Maze is set for a spectacular comeback after 21 years off air.
It got us thinking what else did you rush through your homework to watch as a child?
Many of the classics we used to love have been brought back to life again for our kids.
The likes of Danger Mouse, Denis the Menace and Zig and Zag are now back on our screens again.
However, if your kids watch Operation Ouch, Horrible Histories and So Awkward then they’d have probably enjoyed these shows we loved too.
Time for a Youtube catch up anyone?
Post your favourite programmes in the comments below.
Grange Hill
Lee MacDonald as Zammo Maguire in Grange Hill
This was a BBC classic based on a fictional school in London, which started way back in 1978 and ran right through to 2008, making it was one of the longest-running programmes on British television.
Who could forget Zammo and the catchline ‘just say no’ following his gritty storyline about heroin addiction?
The question is did you long to go to a school like Grange Hill, or did it make you terrified that high school might actually be as tough as this programme made it out to be?
Trumpton
“Pugh, Pugh, Barney McGrew, Cuthbert, Dibble, Grub”
These are words that will stick with us for the rest of our lives. Not just because Captain Flack’s roll-call for his fire brigade featured in almost every episode but also because it became the basis of a rave tune in the early 1990s called Trip to Trumpton by Urban Hype.
Remember Camberwick Green too? This was launched in the 60s as the first in the Trumpton trilogy and featured stop-motion puppets and narration by Brian Cant.
There were only 13 episodes made but they were played over and over again for many years.
Rentaghost
This series, which ran from 1976 to 1984 featured local actors Michael Staniforth, from Selly Oak, and Walsall-born Coronation Street actress Sue Nicholls.
They were jester Timothy Claypole and hayfever-suffering Nadia Popov at a fictional entertainment agency that hired out spooks.
Jamie and the Magic Torch
via GIPHY
This synopsis for this story had to be every child’s dream come true. After his mum wished him goodnight with those famous words ‘Sleep tight Jamie’, Jamie would turn on his torch and tumble down a helter skelter of light into Cuckoo Land.
There he met strange characters like Mr Boo, who was obsessed with counting things, Officer Gotcha, who ate truncheons, and Wellybob the cat, who did everything backwards.
TISWAS
It stood for Today Is Saturday Watch And Smile and was the cult Saturday morning series kids watched from 1974 to 1982.
Hosted by Chris Tarrant, who studied at the University of Birmingham, TISWAS was launched from Birmingham’s ATV centre.
It featured the likes of Lenny Henry and Jasper Carrott and also launched the career of Spit the Dog and his owner Bob Carolgees, who debuted on the show in March 1979.
The Magic Roundabout
Kids of all ages have grown up loving Dougal, Zebedee, Dylan and Ermintrude, thanks to the original 60s and 70s BBC series right through to the 2005 film featuring the voices of Kylie, Joanna Lumley and Tom Baker.
And the characters from the movie appeared in a new TV version was screened in 2007 and 2010.
Remember being spooked by Dougal and the Blue Cat as a child?
Mr Benn
Mr Benn
Created by author David McKee, Mr Benn’s adventures always began when he stepped into the changing room of a fancy dress shop.
From there, he’d be transformed into a spaceman, cook, caveman, deep sea diver or pirate.
Then, with the immortal words ‘suddenly the shopkeeper appeared...’, Mr Benn would find himself back in the changing room but always with a little souvenir of his explorations.
Despite there being only 13 episodes, this 70s classic remains a firm favourite in polls of children’s best loved TV programmes.
Chorlton and the Wheelies
This programme was bonkers, as so many of the 70s kids TV programmes were, which is probably why we loved them, even on repeat in the 1980s.
Set in Wheelie World, Chorlton and his friends had to put up with the antics of evil green witch Fenella, who had a screechy Welsh accent.
The Wombles
John Reavenall Womble Orinoco with Central TV's Llewela Bailey in 1998
These eco-warrior characters lived in a burrow on Wimbledon Common where they did regular litter picks and recycling using the motto ‘Make Good Use of Bad Rubbish’ (bit like Rastamouse’s ‘Make a Bad Ting Good’ mantra of today?)
Their 70s TV series and novelty songs – Remember You’re a Womble – became huge hits, as did their Wombling Free film, starring David Tomlinson, Frances de la Tour and Bonnie Langford.
They even appeared on stage at Glastonbury in 2011.
The Flumps
via GIPHY
Remember these furry characters who appeared on our screens in the late 70s to late 80s?
There was Posie, Perkin and Pootle, who spent their time with ‘Flumpet-playing’ Grandpa Flump, gardening fan Father Flump and Mother Flump, who was mostly seen cooking in the kitchen.
The Moomins
These hippo type creatures in Moominvalley have developed something of a cult status since the first picture books were launched in 1945 in Finland.
The TV series about their lives in Moominvalley became popular in the UK in the 1980s.
You can now buy cups, flasks, cushions and all kinds of Moomin memorabilia. There was even a Moomin Party at the first Just So Festival in Staffordshire in 2010.
Jackanory
This was the programme your mum wanted you to watch when you got home from school (when you’d have much preferred to have been watching He-man and the Masters of the Universe).
The first Jackanory was broadcast on the BBC in 1965 and it ran until 1996 with The House at Pooh Corner by A. A. Milne being the final story to be read (by Alan Bennett, no less).
It was briefly revived in 2006.
Kids today can still sometimes watch Jackanory Junior, hosted by the likes of Amanda Abbington, on CBeebies.
Postman Pat
via GIPHY
Now, we know that our kids currently watch Postman Pat Special Delivery Service.
But we can’t be the only ones that think it’s just not right him jumping in a helicopter to drop off parcels to remote areas?
We recognise that times have changed but we still long for the stop-motion quaintness of Pat and his black and white cat tootling around Greendale in his bright red van like he did in the 80s, with everybody smiling as they waved to greet him. (oops, cue another song!)
Button Moon
The premise of this series was that Mr Spoon travelled to Button Moon on his homemade rocket ship and met characters made from kitchen utensils.
It was simple, hardly rocket science (sorry!) but there were more than 90 episodes and it ran right throughout the 80s.
• What was your favourite programme from your childhood?
For more family stories, like our Brummie Mummies facebook page
• CBBC Live takes place in Centenary Square and the Library of Birmingham from 9am to 6pm on Saturday July 16, and 10am to 6pm on Sunday July 17. There will be loads of top authors, comedians and children’s TV stars at the event.
All events are free and for most you can just turn up, although the author talks are ticketed and mostly fully booked now. However more tickets have been released for some events if you click here | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/family-kids-news/14-kids-tv-programmes-would-11606830 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/1c0c552d4f9308cc96b29d7179b47b258b1e964fbf3516311408dd0e5b244a38.json |
[
"Brett Gibbons"
] | 2016-08-31T14:47:28 | null | 2016-08-31T14:19:59 | Consignment smuggled into UK in laptop cases on Heathrow flight | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2F600k-drugs-lord-sarfraz-ayub-11823957.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11824077.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Sarfraz-Ayub.jpg | en | null | £600k drugs lord Sarfraz Ayub jailed for plot to flood city with heroin | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Above: More than £600,000-worth of cannabis seized in raids
Drugs with a street value of more than £610,000 were stuffed into laptop cases transported from Pakistan as part of a sophisticated bid to flood Birmingham's streets with heroin.
The consignment was destined for Sarfraz Ayub, of Electric Avenue, Witton, who accepted the five-kilo consignment which was tracked by the National Crime Agency.
It had been discovered on an aircraft that landed at Heathrow in December 2014.
Ayub was jailed for eight years at Birmingham Crown Court after being found guilty of importing the Class A drugs following a five-day trial.
Officers discovered the drugs in the cargo from Pakistan.
It consisted of parcels labelled as ladies' clothing, but were found to contain laptop cases.
Sarfraz Ayub was jailed for eight years.
A brown powder was found to be concealed within the cases’ lining which later tested positive for heroin.
The goods were addressed to 50-year-old Ayub’s home address, who signed for the parcel when it was delivered.
He later claimed it was for a previous tenant.
The drugs were hidden in the lining of a laptop case.
Phil Douglas, director Border Force Heathrow said: “The expertise of Border Force officers not only kept these dangerous drugs off the UK’s streets, but was also the vital first step in bringing Ayub to justice.
“Working with law enforcement colleagues like the NCA we are determined to do all we can to prevent drug trafficking and put those responsible behind bars.”
Dawn Cartwright, head of the NCA’s Birmingham border investigation team, said: “The drugs seized here were well hidden and worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. I’ve no doubt that had they not been seized and Ayub arrested this heroin would have ended up being sold on the streets of Birmingham, fuelling further criminality.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/600k-drugs-lord-sarfraz-ayub-11823957 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/40bc6c5492e123742519d09809d71a70d71067ae2a2b15f5c6cc94015f3521fb.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-26T12:56:36 | null | 2016-08-26T11:48:52 | Victim was stabbed on Tuesday evening and died on Thursday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fsummer-lane-stabbing-direct-appeal-11803580.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11791243.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/MQP_BEM_240816hill003JPG.jpg | en | null | Summer Lane stabbing: Direct appeal from police to suspect | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
The Live Event you are trying to watch is either unavailable or has not started Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
Police are directly appealing to a murder suspect to “do the right thing” before they “come knocking at your door.”
Detectives issued the plea after a 26-year-old man died after he was stabbed near a bus stop in Summer Lane, just outside Birmingham city centre, on Tuesday evening.
The victim, who has not yet been identified, was taken to hospital by paramedics but died from his injuries on Thursday.
No arrests have been made but police said they are following several lines of enquiries and have asked the suspect to come forward.
The scene of the stabbing at the junction of Constitution Hill and Summer Lane
Detective Paul Joyce, said: “Despite the best efforts of the medical staff the man’s injuries were so severe that he unfortunately died and we have now launched an murder investigation.
“We are in the process of contacting the man’s family and will not be in a position to name him until this has been concluded and we have formally identified him.
“We continue to investigate the circumstances that led to his death, CCTV is being trawled and we are appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity at the time of the incident to come forward.
“I would also like to appeal directly to the person responsible, to do the right thing and to come forward. We have several lines of enquiry and it is only a matter of time before we come knocking at your door.”
Police cordoned off Summer Lane at the junction of busy Constitution Hill while they conducted a forensic search.
Residents living in a modern block of flats called City Heights recalled emergency vehicles flooding the area.
Callum Giliker, 25, said: “I poked my head out of the window a few times and it was cordoned off.
“It was very busy here. There were a lot of people hanging around but they didn’t seem to be dangerous.”
This was the second serious stabbing in the city centre in 24 hours after a teenager was left critically ill following an attack in the Carrs Lane area on Monday.
The victim remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital while no arrests have yet been made. West Midlands Police say they are not linking the incidents. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/summer-lane-stabbing-direct-appeal-11803580 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9d45760ec80af90ac0e0ba8ed5aeda52d54efee2df9b225b11f0676b07bf71c8.json |
[
"Aidan Mccartney"
] | 2016-08-30T20:46:58 | null | 2016-08-30T20:10:20 | Blues could be about to see off interest from Ipswich Town to land the Premier League striker | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fbirmingham-city-rumour-blues-set-11821121.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article9863534.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Burnleys-Lukas-Jutkiewicz-in-action.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City rumour: Blues set to win race for Burnley striker Lukas Jutkiewicz | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham City have reportedly agreed a loan deal to sign Burnley striker Lukas Jutkiewicz, according to HITC Sport.
The 27-year-old has recently returned to full fitness after suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury at the start of last season
He has featured twice off the bench for the Clarets in the Premier League and started during their EFL Cup loss to Accrington Stanley.
Championship rivals Ipswich Town have been linked with an interest in the forward but with Blues boss Gary Rowett keen to bolster his striking options ahead of tomorrow's transfer deadline day, Jutkiewicz could prove his man
Roger Johnson of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Lukas Jutkiewicz of Middlesbrough
Jutkiewicz began his career at Swindon, making a £1million switch to Everton in 2007. He appeared only once for the Toffees before being sold to Coventry City in 2010 for an undisclosed fee.
A £1.3m move to Middlesbrough followed and he went onto to score 11 goals in 64 at the Riverside before heading to Turf Moor for £1.5m in July 2014. He is yet to score a competitive goal in his 35 appearances for the Clarets. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-rumour-blues-set-11821121 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/27581715acedfbcf215387b7430e333fb1aa2e3c987713fc3c20c39c10c0139e.json |
[
"Andy Richards"
] | 2016-08-30T10:47:14 | null | 2016-08-30T10:07:00 | Which is your favourite tale from the literary queen of murder mysteries? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fbrummie-riddle-agatha-christie-fans-11802728.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11816985.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/agath1.jpg | en | null | A Brummie riddle for Agatha Christie fans | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | She was the undisputed literary queen of the murder mystery.
Agatha Christie is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling author of all time and attributed with selling two billion books worldwide.
She also wrote the world’s longest-running play, a murder mystery, The Mousetrap, which continues to run in London
Agatha Christie
Now the BBC has announced it is to produce seven new adaptations of her murder mysteries over the next four years, including the likes of Ordeal by Innocence and Death Comes To An End.
It follows the huge success of And Then There Were None, in 2015, which attracted eight million viewers.
A scene from Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap - can you spot whodunnit?
No doubt the move will delight Christie fans.
If you are one, here’s a little problem to solve.
In which two novels does Birmingham play a part?
Even the author’s most avid readers may be hard pushed to answer.
Think hard. As her wonderful detective creation Hercule Poirot says: “It is the brain, the little gray cells on which one must rely. One must seek the truth within - not without.”
It’s fair to say neither book would be described as a blockbuster.
Give up? Well here are the answers....
The first was written back in 1930 and is not a murder mystery - for Christie also wrote romance.
It is called Giant’s Bread and tells the sentimental story of a young man with musical genius, mixed love-affairs, a lost memory and a family tradition. It sold in the UK for the princely sum of seven shillings and sixpence and was the first of six novels Christie published under the nom-de-plume Mary Westmacott.
The plot sees the opening of London’s National Opera House being celebrated by the performance of a new composition, The Giant. The audience was either puzzled or ecstatic about this modernist piece.
One man who does not personally like the composition, but can see the genius that scored it, is Carl Bowerman, an elderly and distinguished music critic, who joins the owner of the Opera House, Sebastian Levinne, for a private drink.
Despite the foreign nature of the music, Bowerman recognises that the composer, known as Boris Groen, must be English because “Nationality in music is unmistakable.” He states that Groen is the natural successor to a man called Vernon Deyre who was killed in the war.
Sebastian politely refuses to tell more about the absent Groen, saying “There are reasons...”
As for Deyre, when he was a child one of the main figure in his life was his Uncle Sydney, is a self-made man who ran a manufacturing business in Birmingham.
He was someone with whom Vernon instinctively felt uncomfortable.
To see how the plot ties up, you will need to read it!
Miss Marple, played by Julia McKenzie
The second is, perhaps, more traditional Christie fare. The Pale Horse is detective fiction first published in the UK by the Collins Crime Club in November 1961.
The novel features her novelist detective Ariadne Oliver as a minor character, and reflects in tone the supernatural novels of Dennis Wheatley who was then at the height of his popularity.
The Pale Horse is mentioned in Revelation 6:8, where it is ridden by Death.
A dying woman, Mrs Davis, gives her last confession to Father Gorman, a Catholic priest, but along with her confession she gives him a list of names and a terrible secret. Before he can take action, however, he is struck dead in the fog.
As the police begin to investigate, a young hero, Mark Easterbrook, begins to piece together evidence that sets him upon a converging path.
It is a path which takes him on a journey to meet a disbarred lawyer....in Birmingham.
And there he learns the terrible secret of The Pale Horse!
Christie used identifiable patterns of words that made her books “literally unputdownable”, researchers have said.
A linguistic study of more than 80 of her novels concluded that a number of key phrases triggered a pleasure response in readers.
Study co-ordinator Roland Kapferer said the researchers believed Christie’s language patterns “stimulated higher than usual activity in the brain”.
The Agatha Project study was carried out a few years ago by scientists from universities in Birmingham, Warwick and London.
It involved loading Christie’s novels onto a computer and analysing her words, sentences and phrases.
It aimed to explain the enduring popularity of the work of the late author, who created detectives Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot and wrote novels such as Murder on the Orient Express.
The team attributed this to common phrases including “can you keep an eye on this”, “more or less”, “a day or two” and “something like that”.
Mr Kapferer said they believed responses to these phrases would make Christie’s writing “literally unputdownable”.
Christie was also found to have used a very limited vocabulary.
“It means that readers aren’t distracted and so they concentrate more on the clues and the plots,” said Dr Pernilla Danielsson of Birmingham University.
They also found that Christie frequently used dashes to create “a faster-paced, unreflective narrative”.
Are these the top ten Agatha Christien novels?
10. A Murder Is Announced (1950)
The 50th novel by Agatha Christie. When a murder is announced through an advertisement in a local newspapers, everyone thought of it as a big hoax, until a murder sets itself into a culminating stage. The novel features Miss Marple, one of Agatha’s most well remembered fictitious character.
9. Death In The Clouds (1935)
It was originally titled as ‘Death In The Air’. When a passenger is found dead just moments before landing in an airplane, the initial conclusion was that it was by a bee-stung, but when a poison-tipped dart is found, it is realised that she has been murdered through a blowgun. Now, who could do that?
8. Crooked House (1949)
The novel narrates the story of the Leonides, a family who live in a not so crooked house. Suspicion arise when Aristides is poisoned, leaving the Leonides as the suspects. This novel is still considered as favourite by many crime novel readers, which is evident by the act that it was found too shocking even by Agatha’s publishers at the time of publishing.
7. Murder On The Orient Express (1934)
It tells the story of how a larger than life train stops suddenly at night due to snowdrift and in the morning, a dead body is found in one of its compartments. What worsens the situation for the passengers and crew of the train is that, untrodden snow shows that the killer is still on the train.
6. Endless Night (1967)
Michael and Ellie, a newly married couple seemhappy initially, but the story becomes jaw-dropping, incredible, tale of suspicion. Agatha counted this novel as one of her own favourites. It has been translated into 13 different languages and a 1972 film of the same name.
5. Five Little Pigs (1942)
The genius in this one is that it brings five different accounts of one unforgettable experience. Caroline Crale died 16 years ago in a prison while charged with murdering her own husband. Her daughter summons Poirot for help, which leads to five different suspects. The novel tells us through Poirot that when there is no access to the actual crime scene, it is possible to solve a case with mere testimonies of participants.
4. The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd (1926)
Considered as a milestone in detective fiction, ‘The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd’ tells the story of Poirot as he visits the village of King’s Abbot, where he finds that Mr. Roger Ackroyd is stabbed to death. The last chapter of the novel reveals something to readers that they didn’t even bargain for, which turns this typical village murder mystery into a world classic.
3. Curtain: Poirot’s Last Case (1975)
Originally written during the Second World War and published 36 years later in 1975, it marks the last appearance of Poirot.
2. The ABC Murders (1936)
The story of a serial killer who murders Alice Ascher, Betty Barnard and Carmichael Clarke. Hercule Poirot is unsuccessful in saving the lives of these three people despite getting various clues. All that he can hope for is that he catches the killer before he reaches another victim. This was one of the first novels to deal with a serial killer.
1. And Then There Were None (1939)
Considered by Agatha herself as her most difficult novel to write. It tells the story of 10 people, all of whom have secrets in their chest, who are invited for a weekend in an island. Everything seems perfect, until one by one dies, leaving none. The plot thickens when it is realised that the killer is one of them. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/brummie-riddle-agatha-christie-fans-11802728 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/ad225b65e941c2f8c412d3caa7464e4f1efd864ae49e785903cbd3392e7d92d7.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-30T06:46:52 | null | 2016-08-30T05:50:00 | The figure equates to nearly seven months’ average rent in the region | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Faverage-debt-west-midlands-stands-11814308.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11814320.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/credit.jpg | en | null | Average debt in the West Midlands stands at £6,000 | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The average adult in debt in the West Midlands nearly £6,000 – before you even start with the mortgage.
New research by the Midlands branch of R3, the insolvency trade body reveals on average, people in the region owe 11 weeks wages, without taking mortgages or student loans into account.
The figure also equates to nearly seven months’ average rent in the region and is above the national figure of £5,778.
The R3 survey, carried out in conjunction with ComRes, also found that 15 per cent of West Midlands adults owes £10,000 or more and five per cent owes £20,000 or more.
R3 Midlands chairman Chris Radford, a partner at Gateley in Birmingham, said: “The continued availability of cheap money and low levels of wage growth have contributed to a substantial proportion of people owing sizeable amounts of money.
“There is certainly a personal debt challenge to be overcome here in the West Midlands, and the latest national increase in personal insolvency figures suggest that people may be finding it harder to pay their debts
“It is important to note that two-in-five adults in our region struggle from payday to payday. Monies owed could continue to build and get out of control if people don’t have extra funds left over at the end of the month to repay the principal debt.”
Mr Radford said the Government had to do more about the personal debt challenge in the UK.
He said: “The creditors’ petition level for bankruptcy has been increased from £750 to £5,000 while the government has been considering a statutory ‘breathing space’ from creditor action for debtors.
“More attention, however, must be paid to encouraging people to seek early advice about unsustainable debt as this is the key way to prevent the escalation of financial struggles.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/average-debt-west-midlands-stands-11814308 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/eb375fa53d260f528e8b6e3c6ce73fab6cb51a6870f50cba82976ba32c7d3671.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-28T10:46:54 | null | 2016-08-28T11:25:16 | Teenager due in court on Monday charged with murder | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fsamuel-simret-named-victim-summer-11811027.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11791241.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/MQP_BEM_240816hill004JPG.jpg | en | null | Samuel Simret named as victim of Summer Lane stabbing | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Above: Police conduct a fingertip search after the Summer Lane stabbing
A teenager has been charged with murder after a man was stabbed to death in Birmingham .
Samuel Simret, 26, was knifed near the RK Wines off-licence in Summer Lane, close to the junction with Constitution Hill, Tuesday evening.
Emergency services flooded the scene but the victim died on Thursday.
A post-mortem examination revealed that Mr Simret died of a single stab wound to the chest.
Alexander Habte, of Conybere Street in Highgate, was charged with murder on Saturday night by West Midlands Police .
The 19-year-old was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday morning.
The scene of the stabbing at the junction of Constitution Hill and Summer Lane
Det Chief Insp Paul Joyce, of West Midlands Police CID, said: “Clearly the decision to charge a man over the murder is a significant development however we are still trying to piece together the circumstances that led up to the incident.
“I would urge anyone with information who has yet to contact police, or any witnesses, to call my team on the 101 number.”
The area, which is overlooked by modern apartment blocks, was cordoned off by police while officers conducted a forensic search on Wednesday.
One resident from City Heights flats, said: “There were three police cars, one ambulance sat there for most of the evening.
“There’s been someone on patrol all evening.
“They knocked doors to see if anyone had seen or heard anything. This was about 8.30pm.”
The incident was the second serious stabbing in Birmingham city centre in 24 hours.
A teenager was left critically ill following an attack in the Carrs Lane area on Monday.
Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/samuel-simret-named-victim-summer-11811027 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9644697e3ddf725d3dc73f5c6291e21b4927ccda86923f2a8ce2dea5f7a8c5ec.json |
[
"Anuji Varma"
] | 2016-08-26T12:59:09 | null | 2016-08-26T10:26:27 | Stem cell treatments could halt crippling symptoms of Handsworth Wood woman | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fhealth%2Fhow-allison-needs-your-help-11802693.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11802914.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/alli2.jpg | en | null | How Allison needs your help to receive pioneering treatment | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A Multiple Scelorisis sufferer is hoping to raise £40,000 to undergo pioneering treatment in Mexico which could halt her crippling symptoms.
Allison Millward, 50, from Handsworth Wood , believes the stem cell treatment will stop the progression of her devastating disease.
It’s not available on the NHS and limited trials are taking place in the UK.
Divorced Allison said: “This treatment will halt progression and we know it works as so many other countries are carrying out.
“Yet it hasn’t been given the go ahead in the UK. It could benefit so many MS sufferers and save the NHS money.”
She was first diagnosed with MS aged 26 after she became concerned about numbness in her right hand and then her arm.
“You could have stuck a pin in it and I wouldn’t have known,” explained Allison.
“I was told to take Neurofen but then I started suffering pain in my left eye.”
Allison Millward.
Medics picked up on the symptoms and she was told the devastating news after an MRI scan confirmed she had the disease.
“Luckily I knew another sufferer so was aware of MS. In those days there wasn’t Google to look up things.”
She threw herself into exercising which helped to keep the symptoms at bay but around five years ago she couldn’t fight them any longer.
“I now use a wheelchair and cannot stand up for too long a period of time,” added Allison.
“The only pain I suffer is in my feet, and some days I cannot walk. The treatment in Mexico will stop me from getting any worse and some people do see improvements too.
“Everyone reacts differently to the treatment.”
It is known as Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Treatment (HSCT) and is thought to be the best option available.
HSCT takes stem cells from the patient’s bone marrow or blood and stores them. The immune system is then attacked with a dose of chemotherapy. When this is complete the stored stem cells are put back into the patient’s bloodstream in an attempt to re-boot the immune system.
The hope is that this will create a completely new immune system.
Although the treatment remains experimental at present, there are facilities throughout the world which have approved it for use with patients suffering from MS through clinical trials. There is strong evidence that HSCT is highly effective.
*To donate to Allison’s treatment log onto www.gofundme.com/msfightclub | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/health/how-allison-needs-your-help-11802693 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/749e659956fdf5bb09c51bf099acc390d9ed7fedce9a605133065027054de1f4.json |
[
"Luke Beardsworth"
] | 2016-08-30T14:47:37 | null | 2016-08-30T13:54:42 | Terrifying footage sees officer save man on train track | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fworld-news%2Fwatch-astonishing-moment-police-officer-11818553.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/news/world-news/article11818570.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Video-officer-hero.jpg | en | null | Watch the astonishing moment this police officer drags a man off train track seconds before train speeds through | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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The astonishing footage above shows a police officer dragging a man off a train track seconds before a train speeds through.
The police officer struggles to drag the man away from the lines as a train approaches the station.
He manages to pull the man to safety just seconds before the train speeds through.
Officer Victor Ortiz was the fastest to react at Secaucus Junction in New Jersey when he saw the man on the train track.
The man reportedly struggled against Ortiz's attempts to aid him before eventually being pulled of of danger.
New Jersey Transit officials have said they are proud of Ortiz for his actions.
They said in a statement: "NJ TRANSIT could not be more proud of Victor Ortiz and of the New Jersey Transit Police Department and we hope this serves as a stark reminder of what these men and women do every single day to keep us safe throughout this state.”
In July, British Transport Police released a video of a man being hit by a train. They hoped the footage would serve as a warning for those trespassing on the railway.
Watch: Watch: Shocking moment man taking short cut to work hit by train
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Nick Jordan, Community Safety Manager for Network Rail, said: “Trespassing on the railway is a criminal offence, however its impact goes way beyond that.
“One simple act of entering onto the railway can permanently affect the lives of dozens of innocent people, including the family of those trespassing as well as railway workers, the emergency services and rail users.
“Network Rail continues to make improvements to Britain’s railway and safety is at front and centre of everything that we do. One person injured on Britain’s rail network is one too many.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/world-news/watch-astonishing-moment-police-officer-11818553 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/23dd24ed68dcd4617094a42823ad1ef6c16c56e305e32c0769f6b109ee6bed44.json |
[
"Birmingham Mail"
] | 2016-08-31T08:48:54 | null | 2016-08-31T09:09:37 | Warwickshire will be aiming to record their first home Specsavers County Championship win of the season against Middlesex | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fcricket%2Fdougie-brown-still-waiting-home-11821850.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article10719805.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Head-coach-Dougie-Brown-of-Warwickshire-CCC.jpg | en | null | Dougie Brown still waiting for a home win | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Warwickshire will be aiming to record their first home Specsavers County Championship win of the season when they take on Division One leaders Middlesex starting today.
The Bears are heading into September still to win at Edgbaston in four-day cricket, due not least to bad weather which had prevented them pressing home some strong positions.
But director of cricket Dougie Brown sees the visit of Middlesex as a great opportunity for the Bears to display the all-round quality that they clearly possess but have not shown consistently enough this season.
They sit right in the middle of Division One, fifth in the table, knowing that one win from their last three games (against Middlesex then away to Somerset and at home to Lancashire) would make them safe from relegation, while two or three wins could lift them into the prize-money places in the final table.
So the Bears have every incentive to inflict damage on Middlesex’s hopes of winning the championship title for the first time since 1993.
“Middlesex have a lot to play for but so do we,” said Brown. “The league is so tight this season that we know a strong finish will push up right among the top two or three.
“I am not surprised to see Middlesex leading the table. They have some excellent players and a good method, rather like our own, with batters capable of big runs and bowlers who are skilful but also disciplined enough to bowl well over a long period of time.
“But it’s up to us to show what we can do. After a couple of disappointing championship games we played some really good cricket in the draw at Durham last week and it was disappointing to lose pretty much a whole day.
“Ian Westwood’s century was magnificent when batting conditions were still difficult after our bowlers had taken advantage of helpful conditions on the first day.
“It was just a shame that, after we lost the third day, batting conditions were very good on the last.”
Squad: Bell (captain), Ambrose, Barker, Chopra, Clarke, Evans, Hain, Hannon-Dalby, Mellor, Panayi, Patel, Poysden, Trott, Westwood, Wright. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/cricket/dougie-brown-still-waiting-home-11821850 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9fd0faaf11d90d9ba54137612a62a686f8e074c9cf1a72bcc0d3f1792338bc1c.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-31T10:47:35 | null | 2016-08-31T11:10:21 | The Bournemouth left back has become the latest linked with solving a problem position at Birmingham City | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwho-rhoys-wiggins-lowdown-blues-11822598.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11822588.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Rhoys-Wiggins.jpg | en | null | Who is Rhoys Wiggins? The lowdown on Blues’ left back target | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham City’s search for a left back could see Rhoys Wiggins brought into the club, according to reports.
The 28-year-old, who is thought to be a target for the St Andrew's club , has clocked up close to 200 top flight matches but is yet to turn out for present club Bournemouth.
Wiggins originally came through the academy at Crystal Palace but first made a dent on league football on loan at Bournemouth. He is now in his fourth spell at the Cherries, after being signed from Sheffield Wednesday in a deadline day deal in January.
The Welshman, who turned out 10 times for the under-21 side, stands at 5ft 10ins.
Wales boss Chris Coleman named him in a larger squad ahead of Euro 2016 last year, although he did not make the final 23 for the tournament.
He played 123 times for Charlton Athletic and in 2012 was selected in the League One PFA Team of the Year.
Birmingham city transfer deadline day quiz: How well do you know Blues' last-minute deals?
Since then, he moved to Sheffield Wednesday in 2015 for an undisclosed fee but struggled to cement a place, turning out just six times.
He is thought to have set Bournemouth back £200,000 when he joined earlier this year. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/who-rhoys-wiggins-lowdown-blues-11822598 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/ecfb97824bd8b863186a960c3d216ab9f5f7bad6a12cd890e7cb5bb35d3874c6.json |
[] | 2016-08-28T10:46:43 | null | 2016-08-28T11:17:37 | The festival at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire has lots to offer | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Fmusic-nightlife-news%2Freview-camper-calling-welcome-new-11810985.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11810998.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/14102286_10157363109085501_5005887125188134463_n.jpg | en | null | Review: Camper Calling is a welcome new family friendly festival | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The vagaries of the bank holiday weather – i.e. rain, thunder and lightning – did their very best to rename this debut festival Damper Calling. They failed.
After a great opening night featuring the likes of Dodgy and The Magic Numbers, Saturday could so easily have been a damp squib, but this boutique festival showed it has what it takes to become a welcome new addition to the summer calendar.
Jon Perks The Hoosiers on stage at Camper Calling
Not only was there plenty to do between watching the bands – foraging talks, campfire cookery demos, ukelele lessons, paddleboarding and kayaking on the lake – but the huge beer tent (complete with its own bierkeller oompah covers band) doubled as a fine shelter/creche for the dozens of families attending the weekend.
A spin-off/successor to the Camper Jam at Weston Park, there was also of course a fine display of VWs and enough stalls to satisfy even the most die-hard of Vee-dub fans.
Camper Calling is in the same civilised category as the likes of the Cornbury Festival – there are orderly queues for the bar, and the food stalls offer a great range of street food with a twist – smoked hot dogs on brioche rolls and chicken tikka barbecued on a converted Mini by Baked in Brick to name but two.
Jon Perks VW van at Camper Calling
As your first festival experience, Camper Calling is a great one – plenty of child-friendly activities, along with enough bands to keep mum and dad entertained too. Saturday’s bill featured a Foo Fighters tribute (better at sounding rather than looking like Dave Grohl et el), late 90s popsters Toploader, and headliners ABC.
The day’s highlight, however, was arguably The Hoosiers – whose catchy tunes such as Goodbye Mr A and Cops and Robbers and festival spirit lifted any of the audience who might have been a little soggy footed. The whole band had even visited the face painting stall. That’s dedication for you.
Fingers crossed this great little festival returns in 2017 – next time with the sun in tow.
JON PERKS | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/review-camper-calling-welcome-new-11810985 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/c91d234a5581b82348b81446e7dd9484a6183670fd02ff54b06e2c150060ee6b.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-30T16:47:57 | null | 2016-08-30T15:24:24 | Reminder to ambulance crews about 'responsible parking' | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fambulance-staff-park-disabled-zone-11818136.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11819266.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98267714.jpg | en | null | Ambulance staff park in disabled zone to get coffee from McDonalds | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Midlands Ambulance Service is investigating after a crew were filmed parking in a disabled bay at McDonalds.
The uniformed pair were photographed parked in the zone at the takeaway, off Chester Road in Castle Vale, around 7.30am on Bank Holiday Monday.
It came a matter of days after the Mail ran a story about a West Midlands Police officer being ticked off for parking in a disabled space at KFC.
According to a witness, the two ambulance staff went into the fast food joint.
The witness also said the car park was nearly empty at the time and they could have had their pick of spaces.
Ambulance parked in disability spot at McDonalds to grab coffee
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed that the staff were not on a medical call out at the time but on standby and they had nipped in to get coffee. A reminder would be issued to staff asking them to park responsibly.
An ambulance spokesman: “All staff are aware that they are not allowed to park in disabled spaces and as such this will be investigated further with the individuals involved.
“A reminder will also be issued to all staff regarding the need to park responsibly at all times.
“The crew had stopped to get a drink and were asked for medical advice from one of the members of staff before leaving.”
The spokesman said the medical advice was about a knee injury.
A witness said: “I thought it was wrong that the staff just let it happen. The main carpark was empty so they could of parked there, also the ambulance base is over the road they could of gone there.
“I felt angry because if we (had) done it and police seen us we would of got a fine.”
Ambulance staff parked in McDonalds
The incident comes days after a police officer parked her patrol car in a disabled bay at a KFC to grab a snack.
The uniformed officer received a warning after being caught tucking in at the branch in Heybarnes Retail Park, Coventry Road, Small Heath, last Friday, August 19.
It became a divisive issue on social media, with most criticising the officer for parking in one of only two designated disabled spaces.
However, she was not without support, with some saying it was a victimless event and police officers have busy jobs. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/ambulance-staff-park-disabled-zone-11818136 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/75c41991830042e3624d6bd9da1652a30fa605d1a1226a5fbda84086b9abdb14.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-31T12:49:40 | null | 2016-08-31T11:51:05 | Tyler Roberts bagged in Oxford's 4-2 win over Exeter City last night | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwest-brom-youngster-hails-first-11822516.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11423525.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Roberts.jpg | en | null | West Brom youngster hails first professional goal his "best moment in football" | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion youngster Tyler Roberts has spoken of his delight after scoring his first professional goal last night.
The 17-year-old, on loan at League One side Oxford United until January, opened the scoring in a 4-2 Checkatrade Trophy win over Exeter City last night.
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Sadly, only 1,575 people saw Roberts open the scoring in an action-packed match.
But that didn't bother the attacker, who has joined up today with the Wales Under 19 squad.
"Definitely not, it's my first professional goal so I just enjoyed the moment," he told the Oxford Mail.
"It just came to me on the edge of the box and it opened up, so I thought ‘why not?’
"It's up there with my best moment in football because it's an honour to score my first professional goal."
Roberts is one of eight Albion youngsters out on loan.
That has left Jimmy Shan with a depleted Under 23's squad.
Yet there was no disgrace in the 2-0 defeat at League One high-fliers Millwall in their opening Checkatrade Trophy Southern Section Group H opener at The Den last night. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-brom-youngster-hails-first-11822516 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/531ec47039789404099b46588d6c339362520636fe9a1cfabf5ff5829697f4a6.json |
[
"Graham Young"
] | 2016-08-29T14:48:16 | null | 2016-08-29T13:55:38 | Video and set list as UB40 headline Solihull Summer Fest for local charity | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Fmusic-nightlife-news%2Fub40-help-harry-help-others-11814632.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11814640.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/UB40-Robin-Cambell.jpg | en | null | UB40 Help Harry Help Others at Solihull Summer Fest | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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After morning rain, UB40 brought some musical rays of sunshine to the first night of the inaugural Solihull Summer Fest.
The two day charity fundraising extravaganza was always going to be at the mercy of meteorology on an August Bank Holiday weekend.
But after some heavy rain earlier in the day, the evening weather was enjoyably overcast and humid as UB40 transported thousands of people in the audience to a reggae beach far, far away.
Graham Young Robin Campbell thanks fans at the end of UB40's headline appearance at Solihull Summer Fest
The veteran band - whose first gig was at the Hare & Hounds in Kings Heath on the winter's day of February 9, 1979 - crammed some 19 songs into a set lasting around 80 minutes.
With a back catalogue of 18 albums to choose from there were always going to be some notable songs missing, including Rat in Mi Kitchen, I Got You Babe and Many Rivers to Cross among them.
Three songs in, guitarist Robin Campbell introduced the night by telling the mixing desk that everyone at the front was saying the vocals weren't loud enough. And that was true 50 yards away where I started off, too.
Graham Young Solihull Summer Fest fans watch UB40
That prompted a wag behind me to shout 'Bring Ali back!", while I wondered if Robin and Duncan's warring brother Ali - the group's original frontman for almost 30 years - had cast a spell on the sound system.
With parity restored, the band rolled through a collection of hits with percussionist Norman Hassan and bass player Earl Falconer singing three songs between them.
Georgie Moseley's home make-over for little girl battling cancer
It took a while for the night to really lift off, with some 007-style brass section tweaks to One in Ten and a cover of Willie Nelson's Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain just two of the highlights to match all of the encores.
Duncan, who joined UB40 after Ali left, has his own distinctive style.
But he lacks his younger sibling's vocal strength and cocksure arrogance - what a shame all three brothers can't play together.
Graham Young Guitarist Robin Campbell
Most of the onstage chat comes from Duncan's older brother Robin Campbell, who sings and plays guitar left-handed at the side of the stage.
The leaves the way clear for sax player Brian Travers to be the most energetic onstage presence whether he's at the front, back or arching his back.
The big screen was top qualityand worked well during the earlier acts in daylight.
But there might have been a few more close-ups to stop fans standing further from thinking they were watching a mirror image of the main stage.
Brian said afterwards: "We were delighted to help to raise money for a great local charity like Help Harry Help Others.
"It's a shame about the weather and ten hours is a long day for those out in the park the whole time.
Graham Young Duncan Campbell with sax player Brian Travers (right)
"But, for a first time event, the festival was really well organised.
"They will have learned a lot and it will only get better next year."
UB40 set list at Solihull Summer Fest
Graham Young UB40 play for Help Harry Help Others
1. Present Arms
2. Maybe Tomorrow
3. Higher Ground
Graham Young Monitor for a big screen camera with brothers Duncan and Robin Campbell on stage, and sax player Brian Travers at the back
4. Cherry Oh Baby
5. Sing Our Own Song
6. Homely Girl
Graham Young UB40 sax player Brian Travers
7. Be My Baby
8. Oh America (Earl Falconer lead vocals)
9. I'll Be Your Baby Tonight (Earl Falconer lead vocals)
Graham Young Robin Campbell plays to Help Harry Help Others
10. Easy Snapping (Norman Hassan lead vocals)
11. Boom Shacka Lacka
12. One in Ten
13. Food For Thought
Graham Young Vocalist Duncan Campbell with sax player Brian Travers (right)
14. Here I Am
15. Red Red Wine
Encore
16. Don't Break My Heart
17. Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
Graham Young Bass player Earl Falconer with drummer Jimmy Brown
18. Kingston Town
19. (I Can't Help) Falling in Love with You
Harry Moseley died from a brain tumour aged just 11 in October 2011.
He raised more than £750,000 by making bracelets after being diagnosed with cancer in 2007.
In May last year, mum Georgie Moseley launched the Birmingham Drop In Cancer Centre in Stechford to help other families.
The centre offers financial advice, careers support, bereavement counselling, holistic therapies and charity workshops for anyone affected by cancer.
For more information visit the Cancer Support Centre website here or the website for Harry's own charity, Help Harry Help Others | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/ub40-help-harry-help-others-11814632 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/e4af61185e7da7ae934096055aef1ea219cfcf638445fc385aeaa0ca50357b69.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-30T18:47:29 | null | 2016-08-30T18:00:00 | Who's on when and how to get tickets to the September event | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Fmusic-nightlife-news%2Fmoseley-folk-festival-2016-whats-11647647.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article10672838.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS71449506.jpg | en | null | what's the line-up and how to get tickets | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | For one of the smaller festivals, Moseley Folk has a tradition of booking big names – and this year is no exception.
In the past it has played host to the likes of The Monkees, Johnny Marr, Edwyn Collins and Ocean Colour Scene.
And appearing from Friday, September 2 to Sunday, September 4, 2016 will be The Coral, The Proclaimers, Levellers and Billy Bragg.
Luke Beardsworth The Coral at O2 Institute
You get a lot of bang for your buck at this festival – at £99 for the weekend and 36 acts, that works out at just £2.75 an act. Bargain!
It’s the festival’s 10th anniversary this year, showcasing unsigned acts next to international artists.
Moseley Park is a lovely woodland oasis, and you don’t have to walk 500 miles to see The Proclaimers as it’s just two miles from Birmingham city centre.
The Proclaimers at V Festival
Who’s on when
The line-up on Friday starts with Daoiri Farrell, The Indoswiss Duo and Dan Whitehouse.
Then there’s Dancing Years, Luke Concannon from Nizlopi, Mothers and Sam Lee.
The final three Friday acts are Oysterband, Billy Bragg and Levellers.
Andy Whale Billy Bragg
Saturday starts with Independent Country, Chris Cleverley Band, Seikou Susso and The Fair Rain.
Then Treetop Flyers, Holly Macve, Dawn Landes and This is the Kit.
C Duncan, Barmer Boys, Phosphorescent and Songhoy Blues are on before Saturday’s headliners, Merseyside band The Coral.
Sunday starts with Luke Jones, Afro Mio, Rabscallion and Rhino and the Ranters.
The Levellers
Followed by Cecil Sharp House Choir, Galleon Blast, Steve Tilston, Laura Gibson and Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle.
Then Benjamin Francis Leftwich, The Jayhawks and Sam Beam and Jesca Hoop lead up to The Proclaimers.
What else?
The festival kicks off at 1pm on Friday and then runs from 11am to 10.30pm each day. You can come and go wearing a wristband.
There are lots of great bars, restaurants and supermarkets literally next door in Moseley, but you don’t even have to go that far, with plenty of food and drink stalls in the park.
Pete Ashton A food tent at Moseley Folk Festival
Expect a real ale and cider bar, organic roast pig, falafels, crepes and Thali and Caribbean food.
Watch Ocean Colour Scene play in Moseley Park
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How much does it cost and where do I get tickets?
An adult ticket for the whole weekend costs £99, or £45 for a day or £75 for two days.
Those aged 12-16 pay £21 per day or £46 for the weekend.
Family tickets cost £209 for the weekend for two adults and two under-16s.
Under 12s go free.
Buy them online here or in person from the office at 82 Fazeley Street in Digbeth, cash only.
If tickets don’t sell out, you can buy them on the door for £45 each day, cash only. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/moseley-folk-festival-2016-whats-11647647 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/ccd1a9f991c7d08810a1162c882c3a39a83a46e7b5fd5af23f6ef7514d283654.json |
[
"Alison Stacey"
] | 2016-08-27T16:48:41 | null | 2016-08-27T15:53:48 | Rescue effort mounted to help Tess stand up | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fwatch-sandwell-valley-shire-horse-11808767.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11808812.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Horse1JPG.jpg | en | null | WATCH: Sandwell Valley shire horse winched back onto its feet by fire crews | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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The video will start in
Firefighters pulled a shire horse back onto its feet after the massive beast’s legs seized up overnight.
Staff at Sandwell Valley Riding Centre in West Bromwich dialled 999 when they found Tess – who weighs almost a ton – unable to stand at 9.20am on Saturday.
Around 15 firefighters worked for hours to pull her upright.
Tess made a full recovery and was stretching her legs in a field at the centre on Saturday afternoon.
A Centre spokeswoman said: “She’s fine now.
“Her legs stiffened up when she lay down overnight but she’s in the field now.
West Midlands Fire Service posted a video of the rescue operation showing firefighters winching Tess upright.
Firefighters try to winch Tess onto her feet.
Watch Commander Paul Staples said at the scene: “There’s a 800kg Shire horse gone down on her hind legs for an undetermined length of time.
“What we’re doing now is working alongside the vets to try and bring this right hind leg back into life.
Tess is pulled over as part of the rescue operation.
“We’ve extricated her from the stables over there on our drag sheet using slings and our animal rescue techniques.
“Now the thing is to see if this hind leg comes back to life.
“If not we’re going to utilise a tractor to get a high anchor and then use our lift and equipment to try and bring her to her feet.”
Tess sits up as her recovery progresses.
A fire service spokeswoman added: “We received a call at 9.20am from Sandwell Valley Riding School.
“We’ve now left the scene, as the horse was freely standing and was under supervision from the vet.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/watch-sandwell-valley-shire-horse-11808767 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/d8ba9902cb316632b7df04aed0cbb8816d31e2d5c946cf407f5d4b34f7bdfc04.json |
[
"Steve Jones"
] | 2016-08-31T14:48:40 | null | 2016-08-31T15:07:53 | With transfer deadline day deals for Rhoys Wiggins and Lukas Jukiewicz, the Blues squad has a very different feel to last season – but who represents the best business? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fpoll-who-been-birmingham-citys-11824672.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808902.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98074475.jpg | en | null | Poll: Who has been Birmingham City's top transfer window signing? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Blues have brought in seven new faces as the club look to build on last season’s 10th place finish.
The signings have ranged from one which brought with it a seven figure fee, for Che Adams, who has arrived from Sheffield United, through to a free transfer agreement for Robert Tesche, who completed his move following a loan spell with the club last season.
With transfer deadline day deals for Rhoys Wiggins and Lukas Jukiewicz, the Blues squad has a very different feel to last season – and more arrivals are possible.
The signings have given Gary Rowett more armory in a season which sees big spenders like Aston Villa and Newcastle United among the Championship challengers.
The Birmingham Mail wants to find out which of business the Blues have done has impressed you the most? | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/poll-who-been-birmingham-citys-11824672 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4885bd067a987a25bfe6eb6cc54edd4ec69b8e27e6e1d9970acc9d14a22aae01.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-27T18:47:18 | null | 2016-08-27T19:08:12 | Villa lost 3-1 having gone into half-time 1-0 up | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fbristol-city-boss-lee-johnson-11809967.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808988.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98075885.jpg | en | null | Bristol City boss Lee Johnson: We completely trounced a very good Aston Villa side | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Bristol City head coach Lee Johnson during the victory over Aston Villa
Lee Johnson has revealed the half-time team talk that inspired his Bristol City side to see off Aston Villa.
Robins boss Johnson was furious at the break after watching a limp performance from the home side which saw Villa ‘outclass and out-perform’ his troops.
In a state of shock at the performance, he said: “I told them that I didn’t care if we lost 5-0 as long as I see some of the Bristol City spirit.
“I was that angry that I couldn’t even be angry!
“We just needed to pass the ball and as soon as we did that the game changed.
“Then all of a sudden we completely trounced a very good Aston Villa side.”
Jack Grealish put Villa ahead early in the game and Villa could have been home and dry had Leandro Bacuna and Jordan Ayew converted close-range efforts.
But after Johnson’s fighting talk, goals from Tammy Abraham, Joe Bryan and Lee Tomlin turned the game on its head.
“We were totally outclassed and outplayed in the first half," he admitted.
“We showed a fear and I was so disappointed because they’re so desperate to do well.
Villa supporters pay tribute to fellow fan Will Falck, who died last week
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“We went out with an intent to play our football but we panicked from the start and looked like a rabbit in the headlights.
“It destroys me a little bit because I want the best from them so I told them to bring out the best in their game
“We got there in the end, though and I think it’s great.
“I’m well chuffed. It’s five wins in eight games for us now so I’m very pleased.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/bristol-city-boss-lee-johnson-11809967 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f1d9510eb9badcec24fae0bd1dad7a7be1bbceac3dfe0849af70a66898b6ad61.json |
[
"Luke Beardsworth"
] | 2016-08-31T12:49:29 | null | 2016-08-31T12:25:56 | He also reveals more of the chain's 'secrets' | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fsubway-employee-reveals-sandwiches-you-11823104.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11823200.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/subway-sandwich.jpg | en | null | Subway 'employee' reveals sandwiches you should NEVER order | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | There's nothing like a foot-long Subway on your lunch break - and we'll incessantly argue over which combination of ingredients are best.
However, as with a lot of fast food, there's a few things you might want to avoid.
One online user, claiming to be an employee at Subway, invited other users to ask him anything Subway-related and came up with some very candid responses.
In a Reddit post, user subwayworkeruk was asked which items he recommends and which items you should avoid at all costs.
Getty Try the steak
He advised that you keep away from the chipotle chicken and teriyaki chicken.
He writes: "Chicken is given a two day shelf life, once in the counter. However these two bypass this and get four days, and can get a little stinky."
If you think that's bad, at least you don't buy the chicken in the US.
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A user from the US said: "I was a subway employee for around a year here in the states and Seeing that you guys have a 2 day shelf on Chicken teriyaki amazes me.
"Our CT had a 5 day shelf and we were told that once it reaches the 5th day, to just change the date. With all of the shift changes and varying factors, we never knew how long this chicken was out(between 5-9 days).
"I quit after I got reprimanded for throwing out CT on the 5 day."
The chicken used also isn't 100% meat but made up of 84% chicken with added starch and water. This is often the case with sop bought cold meat products.
He had pretty decent things to say about the chain though.
He said: "I'd recommend anything else, Subway (at least my Subway) is very strict on quality control and dates. Steak is probably the freshest, and safest."
A SUBWAY® brand spokesperson commented: “All SUBWAY® stores are independently owned and operated by franchisees.
"All stores have very strict procedures in place to ensure products are served safely and to customers’ satisfaction and all suppliers are required to meet our high standards of food safety and product integrity.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/subway-employee-reveals-sandwiches-you-11823104 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/867cf025de9f6753fef4ef865a5f44f1c6ef03cd8018c8bd147c7a870d150d71.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-30T12:47:25 | null | 2016-08-30T11:40:19 | The lowdown on the Portugal international the Baggies have bid for | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-target-william-carvalho-11817245.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11817562.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98261135.jpg | en | null | West Brom target William Carvalho: All you need to know | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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West Bromwich Albion have made an audacious move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho.
The Baggies are understood to have made an offer of around €25 million for Carvalho, a key figure in Portugal's Euro 2016-winning team.
Sporting are still considering the offer and may yet want more money to part company with arguably their most important midfield player.
Here's a lowdown on the 24-year-old.
Career
Carvalho started playing street football as a kid after moving from his birthplace of Luanda in Angola to Portugal at a young age.
In 2005, aged 13, he joined Sporting's youth set-up after spells with Recreios Desportivos de Algueirão and União Sport Clube de Mira Sintra, where he was captain despite being the youngest player in the team.
After rising through the ranks at Sporting, Carvalho made his first team debut in April 2011, a few days before his 19th birthday.
After loan spells with C.D Fatima, in the Portuguese third tier, and Cercle Brugge, in the Belgian Pro League (top flight), Carvalho finally became a regular for Sporting in the 2013/14 campaign.
His displays with Sporting coincided with a first full senior cap with Portugal, having represented his adopted country at every age group from U17 upwards.
Best Position
Carvalho has only one position - defensive midfield.
He never strays too far from the space in front of the back four.
Attributes
Carvalho has incredible anticipation and that rare N'Golo Kante-esque knack of knowing where the ball is going before it is played.
Not only does he read the game like an Oxbridge scholar, Carvalho also has the athleticism and energy to dominate any midfield battle.
Uncomplicated and unflappable, he appears to thrive when collecting the ball under pressure, a trait which would clearly be beneficial for Albion in the intense pace of the Premier League.
He likes to keep it simple, but has the ability to switch it up and spray passes out wide and through the middle.
At 6ft 1ins, he also carries a physical presence and can win his fair share of headers.
He almost has a Yaya Toure-type languid style, yet is far from work-shy.
Weaknesses
He doesn't have too many.
Given the nature of his role, Carvalho inevitably picks up cautions fairly regularly.
He already has two in three games this season, collected 12 last term and 16 in the previous campaign, including two in one match.
Scoring goals is not high on his agenda, simply because he has no desire to venture forward and leave space in front of the back four.
William Carvalho of Portugal controls the ball on his chest during the EURO 2016 match against Austria
Where would he fit in?
In the heart of midfield.
If Ignacio Camacho was seen as an upgrade on fan's favourite Claudio Yacob, then Carvalho is a step up from Camacho.
Given his talents, Carvalho would probably fit into most midfields in the Premier League.
What does the manager know of him?
Carvalho is the kind of player Tony Pulis would kill for.
Pulis is thought to have been an admirer long before Carvalho shone at Euro 2016.
Medical history
Since breaking into the Sporting first team three years ago, Carvalho has never suffered any serious injuries and almost always been availabe.
He played 33 games for club and country in 2013/14, including two at the World Cup in Brazil.
The following season he made 47 appearances in total, five of them at the European U21 Championship where Portugal finished runners-up to Sweden.
And Carvalho played another 38 games for Sporting and Portugal across a 2015/16 campaign which ended with that historic extra-time win over France in Paris in July. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-target-william-carvalho-11817245 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/2608665d03f7f4757ec7c1f1b47f5777ac74c6c7bf58ebbcc655bad4625de249.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-31T12:51:01 | null | 2016-08-31T13:23:58 | The shot stopper says new additions will lift everyone at the club | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fben-foster-new-signings-give-11823585.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11781198.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97629312.jpg | en | null | Ben Foster: New signings will give West Brom a "confidence boost" | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Ben Foster reckons West Bromwich Albion 's playing staff need the morale-boost that only new arrivals can bring.
Albion's nucleus of experienced British players has served them relatively well under Tony Pulis.
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But it's clear new recruits are needed not just to rejuvenate what was the oldest squad in the Premier League last term, but also to lift spirits.
"It's probably not just for the group, but everyone connected with the squad and the team," Foster said after the 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough.
"It's just a boost that you get from seeing good, experienced players come in.
"That's what we need.
"People like Sam, Jonathan Leko and Kane Wilson, they’re fantastic talents with so much potential, but it’s the here and now that we need.
"We need a little bit more experience and that benefits everybody.
"The confidence boost you get from knowing good players are coming in to help the squad out.
"That’s all that matters."
Only in the last few days have Albion made headway in the market with the signing of Nacer Chadli and the imminent addition of right-back Allan Nyom from Watford.
"You can understand the fans are going to be frustrated with the lack of activity," Foster added.
"But I know they’re trying so hard to get players in.
"They’ve been trying hard since the end of last season to get players in.
"The way the market is at the minute, for a team like us it’s probably quite tough." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/ben-foster-new-signings-give-11823585 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/705cd7fc44efe0390e28919edd653a17f1ed1e70c1a64024aa29333f297e5054.json |
[
"Joseph Chapman"
] | 2016-08-30T12:49:37 | null | 2016-08-30T12:04:45 | Birmingham City supporters would have enjoyed the trip to St Andrew's on Saturday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Ffaces-crowd-birmingham-city-fans-11817854.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11817860.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Faces-in-the-crowd.jpg | en | null | Faces in the crowd: Birmingham City fans, are you in our Norwich gallery? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Birmingham City ran out comfortable victors against Championship promotion contenders Norwich at St Andrew's on Saturday.
David Davis continued his impressive start to the season with his second goal, a header, to open the scoring.
Clayton Donaldson netted twice in the second half, once from the penalty spot, to ensure an emphatic full-time score-line.
As ever we sent down our photographer to take snaps of the game and you, the supporters.
Our fan gallery from the Canaries clash is below - are in you in it? | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/faces-crowd-birmingham-city-fans-11817854 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/efc6ecae6628c4eebced642c37416302001015beda15c26e6a8ad807817f7f4e.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-27T14:46:57 | null | 2016-08-27T14:20:32 | This is how the Villa star will treat Carter Carrington | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fjack-grealish-make-brave-young-11808227.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11781132.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97625783.jpg | en | null | Jack Grealish to make brave young Aston Villa fan's dream come true | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A brave young Aston Villa fan's dream will come true - thanks to Jack Grealish.
Carter Carrington, who had his leg amputated at 11 months old, will walk out as mascot with Grealish at a Villa Park match this season.
The four-year-old claret and blue fanatic's story came to light after his dad Marlon posted a photo of him, complete with his Villa prosthetic leg, on Twitter.
Grealish replied to a tweet, saying: What a little star! Choose a game this season & he can be mascot & walk out with me if I'm playing."
Marlon was overwhelmed by Grealish's gesture and told him: "Jack you're a star, Carter shouts your name at the telly whenever Villa are playing (even if you're not lol)."
Villa owner Tony Xia rubber-stamped the plan, tweeting: "Choose a game and we'll make sure Jack Grealish scores in that game."
The family, who live in Bognor Regis, contacted the Birmingham Mail to share Carter's story.
Here's Marlon's letter
My son Carter was born with Fibular Hemimelia (same as Oscar Pistorius) in his left leg.
This meant he was missing his fibular bone, his cruciate ligament and one of his toes. Also as part of this condition he has a shorter Tibia than in his right leg.
I will cut a long story short for now but basically he had his foot and ankle amputated at 11 months old and was fitted with a prosthetic leg 6 weeks later at St Marys Hospital in Portsmouth (By a fellow Villa fan!).
@Marley1974 @slmissey @Dr_TonyXia what a little star! Choose a game this season & he can be mascot & walk out with me if I'm playing #AVFC — Jack Grealish (@JackGrealish1) 27 August 2016
He was walking by 14 months. His prosthetist took a pair of villa shorts and had the badge embossed on the leg for him.
Since then he has had two new legs (due to growth), one was a Thomas the Tank Engine one which he liked, but he preferred his Villa one so his new one is once again, a Villa one.
I haven't really used Twitter before but I put the picture on there and it pretty much went viral with over 200 likes and over 40 re-tweets - not bad considering I had zero followers before this! - in just a few hours. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jack-grealish-make-brave-young-11808227 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/3cffcaff9237d3d74b36e07a40df6d4f0a6e096c25c80e01490a6abebae0aa5c.json |
[
"Gregg Evans",
"Steve Jones"
] | 2016-08-30T18:46:57 | null | 2016-08-30T18:34:00 | Here's the lowdown on the Motherwell man | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwho-birmingham-city-target-marvin-11819720.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article9436615.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Marvin-Johnson-celebrates-scoring-Motherwells-first-goal-in-the-Scottish-Premiership-Play-Off-Final-against-Rangers.jpg | en | null | Who is Birmingham City target Marvin Johnson?: All you need to know about the winger on Blues' radar | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
The Live Event you are trying to watch is either unavailable or has not started Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
Birmingham City could make a surprise swoop for local lad Marvin Johnson after he handed in a transfer request at Motherwell.
Brighton, QPR and Burton are also interested in the flying winger but so far League One side Oxford United are the only club to lodge official bids.
Those offers were immediately rejected by the SPL side who are trying to land £750k for the 25-year-old.
Johnson, who is keen on a move back to the Midlands area to be closer to his son, cost just £30k some 18 months ago, and is expected to have a number of options to consider before the transfer window shuts tomorrow.
Charlton are the latest club to show an interest while four Championship sides all sent scouts to watch him in action last weekend.
If Blues were to bid for the former Kidderminster Harriers and Solihull Moors man, they would have an edge over his rivals.
The player already has links to the West Midlands, following previous stints with several non-league sides in the region, and has family in the area.
Johnson’s current employers Motherwell confirmed yesterday that they had received an official transfer request from the player.
Marvin Johnson celebrates scoring Motherwell's first goal in the Scottish Premiership Play Off Final against Rangers
However, they are standing firm on their valuation, despite receiving bids from Oxford.
In an official announcement on their website, the club stated that they would not be “cajoled or maneuvered to a point where we are forced to sell a player against our will for less than an appropriate value.”
“We owe it to our players, management, staff, shareholders and, most importantly, our supporters to ensure we get a fair price.”
This firm stance has left the player and his agent at loggerheads with his employers.
“Marvin was signed for a very nominal fee by the club for the sole intention that he be sold as soon as possible for profit and whilst we are more than happy with this, the issue is the unrealistic value that they have now imposed upon him which frankly prohibitive and clearly out of step with the current market,” Johnson’s agent said.
Here’s what we know about Marvin Johnson
Career so far
Before signing for Motherwell, Johnson had only ever played in England’s non-league. The winger began his career with part-time Solihull Moors.
Johnson began attracting interest from Football League clubs during a stint with Northern Premier League First Division South side Romulus.
A move to Kidderminster Harriers followed, and it was Johnson’s impressive form in the Vanarama National League which earned him a move to the Scottish top-flight, where he has continued to go from strength to strength.
Marvin Johnson (left) in action for Kidderminster Harriers
Best position
Johnson is primarily a winger who previously played on the left hand side of a 4-3-3 formation with Kidderminster. However, in a flexible forward line, the in demand wide man could operate across both sides.
Attributes
Like many wingers, pace comes in abundance, as well as direct play. Not afraid to take defenders on, Johnson also carries a goal threat, having netted four times already this season. In the early games this season he was named man-of-the-match on a number of occasions and is a fans' favourite due to his attacking play.
Weaknesses
Inconsistency hampered the ex Hednesford Town loanee during his early days at Aggborough, but he was quickly able to produce quality performances on a more frequent basis.
Nonetheless, at 25, Johnson still has plenty of time to continue to improve and judging by how far he has come, you would back him to do so.
Blues' concern might be that he has never played Championship football and Gary Rowett could have concerns over whether he would be able to make the step up. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/who-birmingham-city-target-marvin-11819720 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/5b7a922ab22f66460cdce836c15408eb7e6af32094575480e37709eb9dc11de9.json |
[
"Andy Richards"
] | 2016-08-31T12:49:50 | null | 2016-08-31T11:51:00 | For a start, it's God's own country.. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2F17-things-you-only-know-11821541.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11822623.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/wrenner.jpg | en | null | 17 things you only know if you live in Dudley | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Advertise with the Birmingham Mail
We reach over 2,871,244* unique users a month with dedicated coverage of Birmingham and the West Midlands.
Over 66% of our visitors, who view over 4m* page impressions every month, are in the desirable ABC1 socio-economic groups.
To book an advert with the Birmingham Mail team call 0121 234 5000, email charlotte.wallbank@trinitymirror.com or visit the Trinity Mirror Midlands website for more information.
The Birmingham Mail is part of Trinity Mirror Midlands, offering you unique access to our audience across the region online and in print.
*Source: Omniture (UK 6 month average August '14 - January '15) | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/17-things-you-only-know-11821541 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/1e2b35f8c62faeecbe2ff516661ce6d8fd3b46696a4322cf93cb2abc0a8483b6.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-28T20:46:57 | null | 2016-08-28T21:16:46 | Crisps - they're an afternoon treat and a nostalgic reminder of a Brummie youth. But can you spot a Frazzle from a Skip or a Space Raider from Monster Munch when it really comes down to it? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fquiz-how-well-you-know-11806080.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11806104.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/crisps.jpg | en | null | Quiz: How well do you know your crisps? Name that crisp WITHOUT the bag | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | This lady really seems to like crisps. But she'd need to take our quiz to be a confirmed aficionado
It's crunch time!
Hot on the heels of our quiz asking if you can spot a chocolate bar without its wrapper , we're back with a new test.
Tens of thousands took part in the chocolatey quiz, so this was always likely to be on the agenda.
Many crispy snacks are classics and instantly recognisable from their colourful bags even at a considerable distance.
But can you spot a Frazzle from a Skip or a Space Raider from Monster Munch when it really comes down to it?
We're about to find out. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/quiz-how-well-you-know-11806080 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/ebc8a6bcb24aa77edda7ac6f0064c3254a223fc832a88d3804df853b8f5a7211.json |
[
"Lesley Browne"
] | 2016-08-31T08:46:54 | null | 2016-08-31T08:50:55 | Krystie Newton has passed her Women's Artistic High Performance Gymnastics Coaching qualification. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fkrystie-newton-raising-bar-place-11821762.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11821755.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Krystie-Newton-Miriam-Allen-Sophia-Cabrera-Sofia-Meadows-and-Jody-Kime.jpg | en | null | Krystie Newton raising the bar with place among elite | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | City of Birmingham strives to strengthen the future of gymnastics locally, nationally and internationally – not only through producing gymnasts but coaches alike.
As a result of the coaching development programme, it is delighted to be able to congratulate Krystie Newton, 28, on passing her Women Artistic High Performance Gymnastics Coaching qualification at Lilleshall National Sports Centre.
Krystie started her coaching career at her parents’ gymnastics club in Solihull, Rebound Gymnastics Club, for a number of years before approaching International Performance Coach and City of Birmingham’s Director of Gymnastics, Phil Barrow, with a view to working at Birmingham’s premier gymnastics centre.
Since joining the City of Birmingham Gymnastics Club, Krystie aspired to emulate its top coaches and in this endeavour progressed to achieve her Senior Club Coach qualification five years ago.
She received ongoing support, mentoring and encouragement from Women’s Head Coach, Jody Kime, and Phil, who have worked closely to ensure she benefited from this exciting development opportunity to fulfil her coaching potential.
Krystie has worked extremely hard to develop her knowledge and understanding of new techniques, skills and ideas and all of this hard work and effort has resulted in three of her gymnasts, Sophia Cabrera, Sofia Meadows and Miriam Allen, being selected to join the Great Britain National Level Gymnasts Development Squads.
As a result of her gymnasts being selected to join national squads, Krystie was able to apply to take the prestigious Women’s Artistic High Performance Coaching course, which helped provide her with the skills and mastery to achieve excellence on a national scale in women’s artistic gymnastics.
This course involved a challenging week-long residential course, followed by an 18-month mentoring programme that culminated into a two-hour written examination and an hour-long practical. She successfully completed and attained the qualification this summer.
Successful completion means Krystie has become one of an elite group of coaches, not only holding this qualification but also producing high-quality British gymnasts.
Now, through her hard work and with the mentoring provided by the City of Birmingham Gymnastics Club, she is armed with the necessary tools to maximise her gymnasts’ competitive potential further.
Phil said: “We recognised at an early stage Krystie’s desire, commitment and determination to fulfil her coaching potential. Her journey with us from club coach to senior and now High Performance Coach has been a long, hard road.
“However, through our provision of high-quality mentoring and opportunity and working closely with Jody Kime national and international coaching and training opportunity over the last seven years have shaped her coaching future.
“I’m proud of the all-round efforts and hard work that have resulted in Krystie becoming the best she can be at this stage of her career.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/other-sport/krystie-newton-raising-bar-place-11821762 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b06f365901e3e7a0ab8a6571d6b3b0172a291bbb27f3999f120e085b54c8ef3f.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-31T12:47:27 | null | 2016-08-31T12:10:21 | The dancer is starring in the award-winning musical at New Alexandra Theatre | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ftheatre-news%2Fstrictly-come-dancings-joanne-clifton-11822919.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11822971.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98339148.jpg | en | null | Strictly Come Dancing's Joanne Clifton brings Thoroughly Modern Millie to Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Strictly Come Dancing star Joanne Clifton is coming to Birmingham in the award-winning musical Thoroughly Modern Millie.
We already know that Joanne has the Charleston down pat, so she’ll look the part in the 1920s show.
And it turns out she can also sing well and has appeared in the musical production Face The Music.
A blonde Joanne at the Strictly Come Dancing 2016 launch
Thoroughly Modern Millie is coming to Birmingham’s New Alexandra Theatre from February 13-18 2017.
The winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical, it will take you back to the height of the Jazz Age in new York where flapper Millie Dillmount was finding a job and love.
Joanne Clifton in the musical Thoroughly Modern Millie
From explosive tap numbers to a Fred and Ginger dance routine on a window ledge, and featuring hit songs including Gimme Gimme and Not for the Life of Me, Thoroughly Modern Millie is a funny and entertaining show for all the family.
Joanne, sister of fellow Strictly dancer Kevin Clifton and the current World Ballroom Showdance Champion, did an entertaining Charleston to Flash Bang Wallop with Scott Mills in 2014.
Watch Joanne and Scott dance the Charleston
The 31-year-old from Grimsby was part of the Strictly team of professional dancers last year but was not teamed up with a celebrity.
Viewers will find out on Saturday’s debut show, on BBC1 at 6.50pm, if she has a partner this year.
The musical tour doesn’t kick off until January so she has time to do that and Strictly.
Tickets are available from atgtickets.com and cost from £17.50 to £45. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/theatre-news/strictly-come-dancings-joanne-clifton-11822919 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8071ed7f3d71ac0371ac71676467f33654f599326def22f290c08c0f97ecf3d4.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T14:49:27 | null | 2016-08-26T13:29:14 | The defender is set to join the Turkish side on a one-year loan deal | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Faston-villa-transfer-news-micah-11804489.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11335975.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS90013555.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa transfer news: Micah Richards finally set to end nightmare spell at club | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
The Live Event you are trying to watch is either unavailable or has not started Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
Aston Villa defender Micah Richards is set to complete a deal with Turkish giants Trabzonspor within the next 48 hours, according to reports coming out of Turkey.
Turkish Football are saying that the defender is on the verge of ending his claret and blue nightmare by joining the Turkish side, having agreed a deal in principle.
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The defender arrived on a free transfer from Manchester City last summer but endured a terrible first season with the club as they were relegated.
A lot had been expect of Richards, who is a fully fledged England international, after he was awarded the captaincy by then manager Tim Sherwood.
But that decision didn't work out for either party and the player is one of a number of last season's boo boys that Roberto Di Matteo is willing to let go.
The source appears to be reliable having also been responsible for breaking the Robin Van Persie to Fenerbahce story last summer. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-micah-11804489 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/c74c8893144943f73939f897e4acebef68e2719f3a81c9b47c779144ddbde9e9.json |
[
"Ryan Guest"
] | 2016-08-31T08:49:14 | null | 2016-08-31T08:54:46 | Jack Smith believes Premier League experience could help him to a big score against the Isle of Wight | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fjack-smiths-premier-pointer-boost-11821786.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11105807.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Jack-Smith.jpg | en | null | Jack Smith's Premier pointer will be boost for Birmingham Brummies | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Reserve Jack Smith believes Premier League experience could help him to a big score when Birmingham host the Isle of Wight at Perry Barr tonight (7.30pm).
The 17-year-old was handed a debut in the second tier by Scunthorpe on Monday and scored a creditable 3+1 on a confidence-boosting afternoon for the youngster.
With tonight being the final programmed home league fixture of the season, Smith is now hoping to help guide the Brummies to a final set of three points at Perry Barr before a crucial calendar month for the Surestop Brummies .
He said: “To get my first Premier League call-up was brilliant but to score what I did and race as well as I did was amazing.
“Right from day one this season, I said I wanted to push for a Premier League guest booking by the end of the year and I finally managed to get it.
“It’s the experience more than anything that can help me at the level I’m currently at and hopefully I can use that to help me improve even more at Birmingham.
“September is where the play-offs start and we’ve got the Knockout Cup semi-final against Kent next week so we’re suddenly at the main and most important part of the season.
“I had an okay night at the Isle of Wight last week but I’m looking for a much better night later.
“We’ve been more than solid at home all season long and we’re looking for another big team performance again tonight as well.
“We’re not going to relax because if you do that, that’s when things can come back and bite you so we’re going to treat this as another important meeting and hopefully we all keep our confidence going.
“The Isle of Wight have got some decent riders in their team so it should be a good night of racing for the fans.”
The Brummies are hoping fellow teenage reserve Jack Parkinson-Blackburn will be feeling 100 per cent after struggling with illness in recent days. The club have youngster Stephen Whitehouse on standby.
Meanwhile, the Brummies have booked Coventry racer Mitchell Davey to guest at No.1 in the place of injured star Zach Wajtknecht.
BIRMINGHAM: Mitchell Davey, Danyon Hume, Darryl Ritchings, Tom Bacon, Tom Perry, Jack Smith, Jack Parkinson-Blackburn.
ISLE OF WIGHT: Mark Baseby, Kelsey Dugard, Lee Smart, Chris Widman, James Cockle, Layne Cupitt, Nathan Stoneman. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/other-sport/jack-smiths-premier-pointer-boost-11821786 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/fd6fafaa6998cfa27f5d5b8cdd98b00303e6c1f19567d39e0542a025a7d35f09.json |
[
"Birmingham Mail"
] | 2016-08-30T10:48:55 | null | 2016-08-30T10:37:37 | Last years winner of the Manager/Coach award was Lee Woolls, but who will follow in his footsteps this year? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fbirmingham-sports-awards-2016-search-11817192.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11817007.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS_Sports_Awards_80.jpg | en | null | Birmingham Sports Awards 2016: The search is on for Birmingham's best manager or coach | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The buzz is starting to build around the fourth annual Birmingham Sports Awards – an event that seeks to recognise and reward outstanding members of the city’s sporting community.
Champions (UK) plc have worked on the Birmingham Sports Awards since its inauguration back in 2013 and now as we move into the 2016 awards the event organisation has been placed into their expert hands once again. The evening is taking place at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground on September 22.
The event will see businesses in the form of sponsors and sportspeople unite for a night of celebration that is set to be bigger and better than ever.
Rewarding both able and disabled sportspeople, amateurs and professionals, teams, clubs, volunteers and the region’s youngest sportspeople, the Awards will put the spotlight on those who dedicate themselves to their sport.
The 13 categories are:
* Lifetime Achievement Award
* Professional Sportsman of the Year
* Professional Sportswoman of the Year
* Professional Young Sportsperson of the Year
* Team of the Year
* Amateur Sportsman of the Year
* Amateur Sportswoman of the Year
* Manager/Coach of the Year
* Club of the Year
* Community Award
* Volunteer of the Year
* Junior Team of the Year
* Junior Sportsperson of the Year
If you want your sporting story recognised or know someone who is a deserving winner then nominate at www.birminghamsportsawards.co.uk
Last year’s winner of the Manager/Coach award was Lee Woolls.
Lee is an innovative coach who this year has placed Birmingham firmly on the world stage as a major player in Men’s Artistic Gymnastics.
Lee is head coach to the Men’s Artistic programme and has had nine of his performers selected into the GB national team. Lee was also the Team GB coach for the multi gold winning European Youth Olympic Festival and Junior European gymnastics teams.
Recognised by British Gymnastics for his coaching expertise, Lee was appointed the role of Performance Pathway Coach for the West and East Midlands.
Captured Image Photography Michael & Ben Dyer, Directors, The Inspirational Learning Group, with Dragons Den star Theo Paphitis.
The Inspirational Learning Group are very proud to be the sponsor of The Junior Team of the Year Award for the Birmingham Sports Awards 2016.
As a company we are committed to providing young people with the skills they need for the world of work and we believe that sport is closely linked to this ethos as skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership are vital to succeed in the world of work and also in sport.
We would like to wish all of the finalists the very best of luck.
Michael & Ben Dyer, Directors, The Inspirational Learning Group
Read more on the Birmingham Sports Awards here | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/other-sport/birmingham-sports-awards-2016-search-11817192 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8decdac249ab084614e44b3c8c1e3a938dd040be9d8529a87eb194ba925377e8.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-31T12:48:08 | null | 2016-08-31T12:59:31 | How to apply if you want Paddy McGuinness to help you find love | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Ftake-out-looking-brummies-appear-11823406.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11823382.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS53882287.jpg | en | null | Take Me Out is looking for Brummies to appear on ITV show | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Are you single and looking for love? Then let the match see the maker!
The hit ITV show Take Me Out is looking for girls willing to leave on their light for love – and boys to come down in the love lift.
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The programme is gearing up for its ninth series and is on the hunt for Brummies to appear.
Those successful with their initial application will be asked to appear at an audition in Birmingham.
Luke Lennon Ford on Take me Out with Paddy McGuinness
There have been quite a few contestants from our region on Take Me Out. In the last series earlier this year, handsome Brummie sprinter Luke Lennon Ford won a date but Abby Lewis from Wednesday failed to find her Mr Right.
Last year Walsall builder Rich Oakley scored himself a date but Klaudia Drozd wasn’t so lucky.
Klaudia Drozd from Birmingham who appears in Take Me Out on ITV1
If you’re 18 or over and want Paddy McGuinness to pair you up with your perfect partner and send you on a date to the Isle of Fernando’s, here’s how to apply.
You can request an application form by clicking here or emailing takemeoutgirls@thames.tv or takemeoutboys@thames.tv.
The form asks you all about yourself, from special talents to irritating habits.
Or you can ring 0207 691 6924. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/take-out-looking-brummies-appear-11823406 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8b6885ec98cb5287f237058e3e0e8df25bdffdb75b19bc49f8b3be3f9d3218f2.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-29T14:46:55 | null | 2016-08-29T13:49:28 | Two men arrested on suspicion of drink driving after two incidents within space of hours | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fcar-crashes-parked-vehicles-before-11814634.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11814772.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/bhr_bpo_290816minstead.jpg | en | null | Car crashes into parked vehicles before ending up on its side | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Fire crews attended two drink drive related crashes within hours including one incident where a car smashed into several parked vehicles before ending up on its side.
The car was travelling down Minstead Road in Erdington just before 7.30pm on Bank Holiday Sunday when it hit two parked cars before coming to rest in the middle of the road.
The emergency services were called and fire crews from Erdington station made the scene safe.
West Midlands Police confirmed that a 27-year old male was in custody on suspicion of drink driving.
On Monday, a wrecked silver car and a damaged Ford car could be seen on the road side. Locals living along the residential road spoke of hearing a “loud bang.”
Mum-of-two Lisa Harbun, 21, said: “I was sitting in the front room and was trying to get my daughter to sleep and I heard this big bang. There had been a big accident outside and the car was on its side.
“My dad managed to get the two people out of the car because it was smoking. I phoned the ambulance and fire brigade and they came and recovered the car.
“The car was a write off and there was glass everywhere. The recovery truck came at 9pm and took the crash car away.”
Resident Sabita Gobin, 60, said: “I was eating and I heard a big bang. I thought it was kids messing around. About 9.50pm, I looked out and there was an ambulance, fire engine and police. The street was full of people. The car the guy was driving was in the middle of the road and smashed on the left side.
“I feel bad. If there had been kids around?”
Just three hours later, Erdington crews were called to a separate incident where car collided with a tree and fence on Water Orton Lane in Sutton Coldfield at 10.40pm and ended up on its side.
Fire fighters made the scene safe and police said a 30-year-old was arrested on suspicion of drink driving. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/car-crashes-parked-vehicles-before-11814634 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/1d14783a80f6bb28aff8c34c7a8245cb1a5039d4e48146d130731eb179a3b4ab.json |
[
"Darren Campbell"
] | 2016-08-26T18:46:11 | null | 2016-08-26T18:16:55 | Site in Lee Bank area cordoned off as 'precautionary measure' after police arrest five men from Birmingham and Staffordshire | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fbomb-disposal-teams-birmingham-city-11806919.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11807038.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98022277.jpg | en | null | Bomb disposal teams in Birmingham city centre as five arrested over terror offences | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Bomb disposal teams were called into Birmingham city centre as five men were arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences.
Police arrested two men aged 18 and 24 from their home addresses in Birmingham while another, aged 28, was held elsewhere in the city.
A further two men, aged 32 and 37, were arrested in Stoke. All five were held on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
West Midlands Police said an Army Bomb Disposal Team had been called in to the Lee Bank area of Birmingham at around 3pm on Friday as a “precautionary measure” as a result of one of the arrests.
@benchambers1990 Police and bomb disposal crews in Bath Row, Birmingham after five arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences
Bath Row was closed between Islington Row and Holloway Circus along with several surrounding streets while officers and bomb disposal experts attended the scene.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: “Police are searching a number of properties in the Stoke and Birmingham areas as part of the investigation; these searches are on-going.
“The arrests were intelligence-led and part of an on-going investigation.”
MORE - Football thug kicked Baggies fan in head on train from Snow Hill: | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/bomb-disposal-teams-birmingham-city-11806919 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/381dfbac60ed433c5756b4befaf819e4d11f46eada0a7270ae786a22aab6198a.json |
[
"Darren Campbell"
] | 2016-08-30T20:47:08 | null | 2016-08-30T21:14:23 | Repair works had originally been scheduled to finish on September 5 | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Faston-expressway-roadworks-set-continue-11821223.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11319357.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS35122324.jpg | en | null | Aston Expressway roadworks set to continue beyond school holidays | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Drivers will be made to wait for an end to disruption on the Aston Expressway after roadworks were extended for another two weeks.
Work to repair the A38M and Spaghetti Junction in Birmingham was originally set to be completed by September 5 after running throughout the school summer holidays.
But it has since announced that overnight closures will continue for a further fortnight, while two narrow lanes on the outbound carriageway will remain in place until the work is completed.
Highways England said the extension of the current scheme would prevent further disruption to motorists of between six to eight weeks during the colder months of the year.
The work is now set to be completed by mid-September.
Andrew Butterfield, Highways England Regional Divisional Director in the Midlands, said: “By completing the work now, we can fully repair this section of the carriageway and reduce the duration of work and more importantly the risk of emergency repairs during the colder and wetter winter months.
“Safety is our number one priority and these repairs are vital in helping us to protect this iconic structure for years to come.
“We continue to work closely with Birmingham City Council to manage the repair programme and although further work is likely in the future, we are making sure that we fully utilise the existing programme of repairs to minimise disruption.”
Motorists have been hit by regular delays heading out of Birmingham throughout the summer with restrictions in place on the northbound carriageway since July.
But drivers were spared a string of planned weekend closures after concrete repair works on part of the elevated roadway were completed ahead of schedule in August. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/aston-expressway-roadworks-set-continue-11821223 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/d0135ae03fd5fcfcfe396d7b1a19c313fd0caacef3b7b8e011e97a1d88a0e396.json |
[
"Timothyna Duncan"
] | 2016-08-26T20:46:08 | null | 2016-08-26T20:00:00 | Megan Llewellyn, 18, has had last laugh on those who ruined her schooldays | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fmiss-birmingham-reveals-how-triumphed-11799957.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11801044.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/megan-collage.jpg | en | null | Miss Birmingham reveals how she triumphed over school bullies | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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The video will start in
As reigning Miss Birmingham, Megan Llewellyn often receives compliments and even requests for autographs when she visits the city.
But just three years ago her confidence was at rock bottom after she tried to take her own life after being targeted by school bullies.
Tamworth-born Megan, 18, was admitted to Good Hope Hospital after the suicide bid.
Thankfully, she survived and has now turned her life around by being crowed Miss Birmingham - with the Miss GB title now in her sights.
“I was going through a really tough time,” she said, while fighting back tears. “One night, I just didn’t want to be here. But I’m in a good place now.”
Growing up, Megan was quiet and shy and a target for classroom bullies.
Megan Llwellyn was shy as a kid
In high school, she reached breaking point as the stress of school and low self-confidence in her physical appearance crippled her.
“Honestly, when you are at that point, you really don’t want to be here,” she said.
Mum Ann was in shock after that fateful night in October. She recalled: “As a parent, all you can hope is it never happens to you again. We’ve put it behind us.”
It was after starting college that Megan began to heal, as she surrounded herself with a new group of friends.
Graduating with a business management qualification, she secretly set her sights on the Miss Birmingham pageant, where she beat more than 850 girls to claim the crown.
Megan Llewellyn as Miss Birmingham
“I didn’t tell my mum and dad until I won it,” she said.
“It was a bit surreal.”
There was one hiccup after she was crowned Miss Birmingham, She needed a sponsor to pay for living and travel expenses to the Miss Great Britain finals in Leicester.
After countless rejections, Megan thought her dream was in jeopardy.
“It was so hard. I went around Birmingham and Tamworth... but the people I asked let me down,” she said.
Eventually her friends and family covered the costs, meaning she can compete in September at the Miss Great Britain pageant.
“They have supported me through it all,” she said.
The former customer service assistant now hopes her story will inspire other girls struggling with low self-esteem and bullying.
“I see other girls going through it and I understand,” she said.
“I’ve gotten to a point now, where I see everyone’s beautiful in their own way.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/miss-birmingham-reveals-how-triumphed-11799957 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8026b748c5e8a47302139f973770b31fd0d0eac4c85e3d474c8dbd5db9844479.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-26T16:46:51 | null | 2016-08-26T15:35:29 | Aitor Karanka has leaped to the defence of "gentleman" Tony Pulis | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fboro-boss-baffled-criticism-west-11805464.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11747896.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97037090.jpg | en | null | Boro boss baffled by criticism of West Brom counterpart | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka cannot understand the criticism his West Bromwich Albion counterpart Tony Pulis has received from fans.
Some supporters have been unhappy with Pulis for a while and their dissatisfaction was heightened after Albion finished the 2015/16 campaign without a win in nine.
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Albion's shortcomings in the transfer market and Tuesday night's embarrassing EFL Cup defeat to Northampton Town have certainly not helped the Welshman's cause.
Karanka, who brings newly promoted Boro to the Hawthorns on Sunday, has nothing but admiration for Pulis.
"You look at his numbers," the Spaniard said in his press conference today.
"Since the first day I met him, he has shown me he is a gentleman and his job is there.
"He has never been relegated in I don't know how many games in the Premier League, so for that reason, he has all my respect and I wish him all the best - after the game on Sunday."
Like Albion, Middlesbrough came unstuck against lower league opposition in the EFL Cup this week.
But Karanka feels the defeat at Fulham might be a blessing in disguise for Boro's motivation at the Hawthorns.
"If we had won easily against Fulham, I could think we would have arrived to play West Brom maybe thinking we are better than we are," he said.
"But after the game on Wednesday, I am completely sure that the team knows that we need to win again.
"We have to move on."
Karanka has confirmed that left-backs George Friend and Fabio da Silva will miss the trip to the Midlands after picking up injuries at Fulham. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boro-boss-baffled-criticism-west-11805464 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/c0a0810612c23a7fbddc8d4fef98c4536000e3496e712748f9a6042db05e46af.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-28T20:46:27 | null | 2016-08-28T21:09:21 | Tamworth mum gets four yeses with her emotional singing | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Fuk-cries-along-rebekah-ryan-11813100.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11808609.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98067681.jpg | en | null | The UK cries along with Rebekah Ryan as she auditions for The X Factor | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Mum Rebekah Ryan had Sharon Osbourne and plenty of TV viewers in tears tonight as she provided the X Factor’s most emotional audition.
The 40-year-old from Tamworth told the judges of the ITV talent show her heartbreaking story – but it was her heartfelt singing which won her a place at Boot Camp.
Rebekah was auditioning 23 years after first becoming a star, and 14 years after the death of her little boy Ethan.
He was born with a rare brain disease after a one-in-a-million cruel twist of fate – she and her record producer husband Johnny Douglas both had genetic faults which were passed on to Ethan.
He was born with Sandhoff Syndrome and unable to speak, walk or see. Doctors expected him to die at two but he battled on until he was three and a half, dying in July 2002.
At his heartwrenching funeral, a teddy bear sat on top of a tiny white coffin and Rebekah released 100 balloons into the air as a tribute.
Ethan Douglas aged three
Rebekah told The X Factor judges in tonight’s episode that she is a single mum to seven-year-old Seb, living in Tamworth with her parents, and that she had another son who died.
She sang Take Me To Church by Hozier and then, after Simon Cowell felt it was too rushed, she sang Angel by Sarah McLachlan.
Simon then said: “I felt every word of that. You’re a fighter. What you told me was very emotional. Every step of the way we were with you.
Rebekah Ryan with baby Ethan aged six weeks
“You’re the kind of person who is important to this competition because you need a break. You have got talent. I like you.”
Sharon, choking up, said: “You gave a very passionate performance. You came from a place of emotion. And when you started to tell your story...you’re going to start me off.”
And Louis agreed: “You sang from the heart and I believed every word of it.”
Rebekah sailed through with four yeses.
After the day’s auditions were over, Sharon said of Rebekah: “Today’s been worth it for that girl.”
The reaction
Reactions were mixed on social media, with many viewers fed up of sob stories and the way auditions seem contrived.
And others laughed at Louis Walsh telling her he remembered her.
But many viewers said they were in tears at her tale.
One tweeted: "Rebekah just made me cry, and my heart is a brick" while Pointless host Richard Osman said: "Rebekah is now my favourite".
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Where have we seen Rebekah before?
This is not the first time Rebekah has auditioned for The X Factor and not her first time on TV.
It’s actually her FOURTH comeback.
Rebekah Ryan
She was just 17 when she first signed to a major label in 1993, after appearing on Des O’Connor’s Pot of Gold. She won £1,000 on the TV talent show and was signed by MCA in a five-album deal.
But little happened for three years until she had a hit with You Lift Me Up in 1996.
The follow up, Just A Little Bit of Love, attracted attention when X-rated scenes in the raunchy video had to be cut for TV.
Rebekah toured with Boyzone and performed alongside East 17 and Peter Andre at Birmingham’s Party in the Park in 1996.
Rebekah Ryan in the video for A Little Bit of Love
She was suddenly dropped in 1997 and it seemed her musical career was over.
The following year she married Jon but they split up the following year.
In 2001, after taking time out and working as a waitress and a part-time model, Rebekah signed to Jive Records, home to Britney Spears and Steps, and released the album Big Trouble (Lots of Fun) dedicated to her terminally-ill son Ethan.
She and husband Jon divorced in 1999.
In 2007 she had her third comeback when she auditioned for The X Factor, reaching Louis Walsh’s Judges Houses as one of the final 12 in the over 25s group.
Now she’s bidding to be in that category again, this time mentored by Sharon who already seems to have a soft spot for Rebekah. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/uk-cries-along-rebekah-ryan-11813100 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4a6f9c4b8d49d758f9590e5b97abadc74b9522e1128cf82d29b953f9b9cf61f5.json |
[
"Paul Beard"
] | 2016-08-29T06:46:32 | null | 2016-08-29T06:30:00 | Owner and his brother lashed out - and took £20 from victim's wallet | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fcity-restaurant-boss-attacked-customer-11813040.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11813051.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/PubfightJPG.jpg | en | null | City restaurant boss attacked customer in car park over bill row | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Two Birmingham brothers have avoided jail terms for battering a customer they believed had fled from their restaurant without paying.
Boss Jaminul Islam and his brother Foridul, a waiter, also took £20 from the victim’s wallet during the attack on the car park of the Bull and Spice in Nuneaton.
Warwick Crown Court heard there was a dispute over the bill but the victim – said by the judge to be a “big man” who was having a “robust meal” with friends – had stepped outside to get more cash.
Kevin Saunders, prosecuting, said the fracas was captured by a CCTV camera but the main issue was whether the victim “uttered racist remarks” and threw the first punch – which the defendants said was not shown on the recording.
Recorder Christopher Goodchild said the footage showed the man wandering round the car park, and Jaminul was the first of the brothers to assault him.
The judge said: “While he is on the ground both brothers, over a period of about 30 seconds, seem to kick and punch him, with the younger one landing the first hefty kick.
The victim was attacked in the car park of the Bull and Spice.
“The younger one then takes his wallet and goes through it and throws it down, and the older brother
continues to punch the complainant as he’s lying on the floor.”
Mr Saunders said the victim suffered a broken nose, and still had difficulty breathing through one nostril.
The brothers, both of Lyndworth Road, Stirchley, admitted assaulting the customer, causing him actual bodily harm.
Jaminul, 22, and Foridul, 32, were handed eight-month suspended jail sentences.
They were also ordered to perform 120 hours of unpaid work and to each pay £150 costs.
Jane Brady, defending, conceded it had been a “repeated assault with a shod foot” but said there had been a “greater degree of provocation” and the injury was not the most serious.
She handed in a number of references from residents living near the restaurant, which the judge said were “very impressive”.
Passing sentence, he told the brothers: “What I saw from the CCTV was a man staggering in circles.
“He is obviously the worse for drink.
“He is obviously waiting for other people.
“He is kicked by both of you repeatedly.
“His wallet is removed, and from his wallet a sum of money, but not all of his money, is taken.
“That is apparently in payment of a bill that has been bilked, and the wallet is thrown to the ground.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/city-restaurant-boss-attacked-customer-11813040 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b0e5efae979d949a47b03edab7fc12a123ab7c32819566f954b502050e4ce20d.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-30T08:47:33 | null | 2016-08-30T09:15:40 | The England international thinks more options are needed in midfield and up front | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fben-foster-thinks-west-brom-11816755.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11781198.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97629312.jpg | en | null | Ben Foster on where he thinks West Brom should strengthen | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | After two clean sheets, but only two goals scored in three Premier League games, Ben Foster believes it's clear where West Bromwich Albion need to strengthen.
The 33-year-old feels the Baggies, the Premier League's second lowest scorers last term, are missing a creative spark and options in attack.
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Foster, who spoke after the 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough on Sunday, also believes more experience in midfield is needed before the transfer window closes tomorrow night.
And the England international, is on track to get his wish with talented winger Nacer Chadli having arrived in a £13 million deal yesterday and defensive midfielder Ignacio Camacho expected to sign later today.
Camacho, 26, is likely to break the club's transfer record for a second time in 24 hours with Albion having triggered a £15.35 million release clause in his contract at Malaga.
"I'd say the defence is quite set and stable," Foster said.
West Brom right-back edges closer to Celtic switch
"We've got enough players for each position along the back.
"Midfield is fairly settled.
"We've got a good couple of wingers on each side and central midfield is good.
"It is probably a little bit more quality up front and maybe a little bit more experience in midfield as well.
"There's probably two or three places we could do with boosting the squad in general."
Out of favour West Brom winger in talks with Newcastle
Foster, like the fans, says he will be glued to the TV on transfer deadline day.
And he expects it to be a frantic time for all connected to the club.
"I'm sure everyone will in all honesty (watch events unfold)," he said.
"It's going to be a busy few days for the medical staff and all the people behind the scenes that you don't really see.
West Brom break transfer record with £13m capture of Spurs flier
"I'm sure they hate it to be honest with you.
"They'll be working until that countdown goes.
"It's a busy few days, but it's what we need.
"The gaffer has said it to everybody that we just need a little bit more and that's all it is." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/ben-foster-thinks-west-brom-11816755 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/3b10f6a32ea406f7f7120087e1eedaa047196313ca3861ec379f65e99108f926.json |
[
"Brian Dick"
] | 2016-08-29T10:46:33 | null | 2016-08-29T11:02:53 | Blues writer Brian Dick was at St Andrew's on Saturday as they demolished Norwich | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fbirmingham-city-comment-classic-case-11813950.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11809442.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98083730.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City comment: It was a classic case of offensive defence from Blues | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham City’s unexpected hammering of promotion hopefuls Norwich City underlined one of Gary Rowett’s most oft-repeated points.
Building a side to score goals isn’t as simple as bunging in more and more attacking players.
On the face of it Rowett made a fairly neutral change - bringing in Maikel Kieftenbeld for the injured Stephen Gleeson.
But dropping David Cotterill, putting Robert Tesche into central midfield and shunting David Davis on to the right wing can hardly be described as an attacking move.
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For the last couple of seasons Cotterill, who was heckled by some when he came on as a late substitute, has been the team’s most likely source of crosses and assists.
Yet without him, with the more prosaic talents of Davis manning the right of midfield largely to keep tabs on Robbie Brady, Blues were somehow more inventive and incisive than in any match this season.
That’s offensive defence for you.
Blues were rock-solid through the middle and Brady was utterly neutralised as an attacking force. Norwich were stifled with the ball and were concomitantly wide open without it.
Birmingham's Jacques Maghoma and Norwich's Steven Whittaker
The connection between both sides of football was not lost on the Birmingham manager.
“I had a real debate in the week,” he admitted. “Did I go for a team of footballers to try and have more on the ball?
“I just feel that when we’re tough to play against we actually score more goals.
“You look at last season, Derby away we played David Davis wide or in the number 10 position to start with.
“Ipswich at home we started with Dave wide left, Middlesbrough wide right.
“We’ve actually scored more goals when we blocked up really good areas and pinched more balls off the opposition.”
Birmingham City's manager Gary Rowett
Funny, you can lose Jon Toral and Dimmy Gray, lavish £1.5m on Diego Fabbrini and yet David Davis turns out to be the key to unlocking defences.
Which is probably taking Rowett’s point beyond a logical conclusion but let’s not characterise Davis as merely a midfield destroyer.
The tactical discipline he demonstrated on Saturday was admirable - as was the run he made to head home Jacques Maghoma’s 22nd minute cross.
Rowett spent months trying to get Gray to follow in at the back post, Maghoma himself often doesn’t, yet here was Davis playing out of position doing exactly that.
But every sound defensive performance needs sufficient quality in the attacking third to make it pay dividends.
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson scores his second goal of the game to make it 3-0
And for once Blues provided that too. Clayton Donaldson looked a rejuvenated figure up front, perhaps buoyed by the arrival of Che Adams.
The pair are developing a promising partnership, not quite an authentic two-up front but as close as anything Rowett has fielded in his 22 months at St Andrew’s.
Tesche and Kieftenbeld complemented each other in central midfield and Ryan Shotton and Michael Morrison put in another decent display at the back.
This match could turn out to be the one in which Rowett’s Birmingham 2.0 stared to come of age. And like Blues 1.0 it’s built around being ‘tough to play against’. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-comment-classic-case-11813950 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8d0820a6334db85a25040858766e7e92b22f86d90db32b0928790ea6780b07d1.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-27T18:47:08 | null | 2016-08-27T17:41:29 | Villa could pay a further price after Ashton Gate setback | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Faston-villa-could-face-hefty-11809431.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808988.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98075885.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa could face a hefty fine after defeat at Bristol City | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Bristol City and Aston Villa players walk out for the Sky Bet Championship match at Ashton Gate
Aston Villa could face a hefty fine for having seven players booked during their 3-1 defeat to Bristol City today.
Ritchie De Laet, Tommy Elphick, Jordan Ayew, James Chester, Mile Jedinak, Jack Grealish and Leandro Bacuna were all booked during the match after losing their discipline in the second half.
The amount of money remains to be seen but Manchester United were fined £25,000 in 2015 for having six players cautioned.
So that is the minimum that Villa can expect to be billed for their players lack of discipline, particularly in the second half when they were run ragged by the hosts.
Will it will prevent Dr Tony Xia from forking out £15 million for a striker before the deadline? Definitely not.
It won’t worry Roberto Di Matteo one bit, what will worry him, though, is the way his team caved in the second half and these bookings came as a result of that.
Villa supporters pay tribute to fellow fan Will Falck who passed away last week | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-could-face-hefty-11809431 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/609648fed8259b6748a849b7ecfaf1f4b0274941fac8638e398958f34fc80c17.json |
[
"Sanjeeta Bains"
] | 2016-08-30T16:47:17 | null | 2016-08-30T16:34:04 | Everything you need to know about this year's Oktoberfest | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fhow-celebrate-oktoberfest-2016-birmingham-11820155.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article10186263.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/ok23.jpg | en | null | How to celebrate Oktoberfest 2016 in Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Autumn is on its way which means one word to us - Oktoberfest time!
The Bavarian festival of beer, oompah bands and Bratwurst - is returning to Birmingham.
Oktoberfest has been taking place in the Bavarian city of Munich in Germany since 1810 and is a true celebration of all things German.
Now it's celebrated all over the world and our city will be turned into a mini-Munich with German food, drink and music - even more than it is during the Christmas markets!
So where's the party?
Oktoberfest at Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park. Klara Vendel in the marquee
There are two events going on at different times throughout October.
The more established and bigger event takes place at Cannon Hill Park in mid October.
But some would argue that good things come in small packages and if that this is the case than Digbeth Oktoberfest ( which controversially starts at the end of September) might provide a more cosier more authentic experience in the beer garden of The Old Crown pub.
Digbeth Oktoberfest took place for the first time last year and is back in the year the pub celebrates its 648th birthday.
Lets take a look at the battle of the Oktoberfests in Birmingham
Oktoberfest in Cannon Hill Park
This is well established and has been part of the Brum calendar for three years. A giant tent to accommodate up to 2,500 people will be erected in the park.
There’s live music from a band, DJS and even a Lederhosen and Dirndl shop to buy or rent an authentic outfit.
Oktoberfest at Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park
On the official Birmingham Oktoberfest website the organisers promise “When you come to the tent you will have the feeling of being in Munich!” Oktoberfest waitresses and waiters will be dressed in Dirndl and Lederhosen serving giant beers called Bavaria festbeers which are specially brewed for the Birmingham Oktoberfest.
You won’t be able to buy the special beer in any shop because is brought directly from Bavaria for the festivities.
Oktoberfest at Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park
Tickets cost between £34-£44 and includes: snacks, seat reservation 2 x 1.5 pints of German beer or 1 bottle red/white wine (+£3), German Schnitzel with Bavarian fries and a dessert surprise (specially adapted to the Oktoberfest).
Wednesday, October 12 to Sunday, October 16
Cannon Hill Park, 2 Russell Road B13 8RD
Digbeth Oktoberfest at The Old Crown
Oktoberfest held at the Old Crown Pub in Digbeth
The Old Crown’s Beer Garden will be transformed into an covered German beer hall with traditional bench seating for up to 300 guests a night. But the good news is there are eight Oktoberfest dates so you just need to pick which one you want to go to and book.
The event is described as a true Oktoberfest celebration complete with huge steins, Bavarian larger, German games, authentic German food, and live entertainment. And it isn’t all about the drinking – there’s live music, games and street food too.
Last year’s festivities organised by the people behind Digbeth’s Spring Market was a huge success - tickets sold so well they added an extra date.
Oktoberfest held at the Old Crown Pub in Digbeth
There will be a wide selection of drinks on offer from Warstiener and Kaltenburg larger, German themed cocktails and mulled cider and wine.
A Bavarian street food shack will be serving up bratwurst dogs, Currywurst and veggie dogs all with the option of pommes and sauerkraut and dessert will be on offer from The Bournville Waffle Company.
Digbeth Dining Club to host British Street Food Awards 2016 in Birmingham
There will be DJs and live bands and if that wasn’t enough we are also throwing in a photo booth and a few Oktoberfest games.
Oktoberfest held at the Old Crown Pub in Digbeth
Tickets cost between £10 - £20 each depending on when you book and are exchanged on the night for a stein for the evening. Inside each stein you will find your complementary drink voucher for a full stein (2 pints). If you aren’t a beer drinker this can be exchanged for a drink of your choosing.
Friday September 30 - Saturday October 8
The Old Crown, 188 High Street, B12 0LD | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/how-celebrate-oktoberfest-2016-birmingham-11820155 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/41904929952f523130a58d1c72de31582d70a927aa4b57f4582dc88e980a63c1.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-30T16:48:07 | null | 2016-08-30T17:16:10 | Villa are expected to be busy in the remaining days of the transfer window | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwhat-jonathan-kodjias-arrival-means-11818887.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11819257.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98276228.jpg | en | null | What Jonathan Kodjia's arrival means for Aston Villa's other strikers | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Aston Villa have bolstered their strikeforce, adding Jonathan Kodjia to a forward line already boasting Ross McCormack.
Kodjia has arrived from Bristol City in an £11 million deal potentially rising to £15 million.
But what does his arrival mean for the strikers currently at the club?
It’s thought that Roberto Di Matteo could let Rushian Hepburn-Murphy leave on loan as the teenager seeks first-team experience.
A number of clubs have shown an interest in the youngster but Villa want to make sure he moves to the right one.
Libor Kozak’s future is another matter.
The big Czech Republic hitman bagged a hat-trick for the U23s yesterday after failing to impress in two substitute appearances for the first-team.
Di Matteo knows he needs games to re-gain his match fitness after making just seven appearances in almost three years.
But, with so many scouts in attendance at yesterday’s 4-0 win over Newcastle United, was Kozak handed an outing to give him an opportunity to impress?
The 27-year-old was the only member of the travelling party that featured at Ashton Gate to also play for the U23s.
And if he was granted game-time in order to remind other clubs that he’s still around, he did his chances of earning a move no harm at all.
Libor Kozak scores for Villa to make it 3-0
A number of clubs have enquired about him this summer but Kozak’s first aim was to impress Di Matteo.
If the manager doesn’t fancy him, he’s expected to move on. However Villa might have other ideas and keep him around for back-up.
Following his reduction in wages this summer, Kozak is a relatively low-earner so Villa aren’t desperate to offload him.
Also, he has just one year left on his contract.
With a fit and firing forward line, it’s hard to see him featuring in the future.
However, clubs are still being linked with Jordan Ayew and if he moves on, Villa will be light up top regardless Kodjia's arrival.
Rudy Gestede is suffering with a hamstring injury but Villa are hoping he will be back after the international break and McCormack is still finding his feet in claret and blue. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/what-jonathan-kodjias-arrival-means-11818887 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b69b9d70959c21db1ad50139d5a02bfd624fb7cb5234c353b0381f5d3366fab9.json |
[
"Brian Dick"
] | 2016-08-27T18:48:30 | null | 2016-08-27T18:40:26 | Gary Rowett was delighted for his players after they trounced Norwich | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fbirmingham-city-lets-brave-lets-11809708.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808902.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98074475.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City: Let's be brave and let's make something happen | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Gary Rowett praised Birmingham City’s character in bouncing back from last week’s demoralising defeat to Wolves in perfect fashion.
Blues secured their first home win in nearly six months as they dismantled Norwich through goals from David Davis and two from Clayton Donaldson.
And after a week of searching, Rowett believes Blues have rediscovered their soul.
“It was really pleasing on the back of a very disappointing defeat last week. I think we were all hurting a little from that second half,” the Blues boss said.
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson scores his second goal of the game to make it 3-0
“That was out of character and I was really pleased with today.
“We consciously made the effort to start on the front foot at home.
“Perhaps we’ve allowed other teams to make the running at home sometimes because of our style and the way we’ve been relatively successful.
“We felt today ‘Come on, let’s make something happen and let’s be a bit braver on the ball at times as well’ and I’m really pleased for the players. They showed a lot of character.
Birmingham's Jacques Maghoma and Norwich's Steven Whittaker
“That is by far the hardest we’ve worked, yet alone the best we’ve played and for me the two go hand in hand.
“We caused them a lot of problems and they are as good as any team in this division and we showed the potential we have got on our day when we have that bit of desire.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-lets-brave-lets-11809708 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/54dd60a6453996b2a73e6bccb77dadc04278b4f1a79e4a2fbe654a96070d3b08.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-28T22:46:28 | null | 2016-08-28T21:42:49 | The Baggies are expected to tie up deals for Nacer Chadli and Ignacio Camacho | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-verge-club-record-11813158.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811433.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS95913455.jpg | en | null | West Brom on verge of club record swoops for midfield duo | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion are set to break their transfer record twice in 48 hours to bring in Tottenham's Nacer Chadli and long-term target Ignacio Camacho from Malaga.
Albion have reportedly agreed a £13 million fee for Chadli, who is deemed surplus to requirements at White Hart Lane, and are believed to be finalising personal terms.
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The Belgium international, able to play on either flank and as a number ten, is expected to undergo a medical at the training ground tomorrow.
Chadli, 27, has scored 25 goals in 119 games since joining Spurs from Dutch side Twente in the summer of 2013.
But he has fallen behind a host of star names at Spurs and is keen to move on in search of regular football.
Midfield enforcer Camacho, a West Brom target for many months, is expected to be Albion's fourth signing of the summer - after the arrivals of Matt Phillips and Brendan Galloway.
According to media in Spain, Albion have triggered the £15.35 million release clause in Camacho's contract with La Liga side Malaga.
Albion have been chasing Camacho for well over a year.
The 26-year-old started his career with Real Zaragoza and Atletico Madrid, before moving in 2011 to Malaga where he has become a key player in the heart of midfield.
And West Brom could be on the verge of another signing, judging by comments made by Tony Pulis after today's drab 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough at the Hawthorns.
Albion have said they will only allow Saido Berahino to leave one they have a replacement lined up.
And Pulis inferred Berahino might well be on his way out before the transfer window shuts on Wednesday.
Asked why the 23-year-old forward had been left on the bench, he said: "You'll see in the next 48 hours hopefully."
West Brom were close to signing Diafra Sakho earlier this summer, but the Baggies are now eyeing up his West Ham teammate Enner Valencia among other targets. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-verge-club-record-11813158 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/059e74786bf13af29dfcca5c2e6921b5fad8b7bcf4218d806b34c9f7c3ffc469.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-26T12:59:56 | null | 2016-08-26T11:14:38 | A list is doing the rounds on social media which might mean one of the most sought-after secret recipes in history is secret no more | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fkfcs-top-secret-recipe-been-11803377.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11694791.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Kentucky-Fried-Chicken-sign.jpg | en | null | Has KFC's top secret recipe been revealed by Colonel Sanders' nephew? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | KFC: Not so much of a mystery any more
KFC's secret chicken recipe - one of the biggest mysteries in the fast food world - may just be secret no more.
Tens of thousands of Brummies every week have enjoyed the chicken while remaining in the dark about the blend of herbs and spices that bring it to life.
The nephew of KFC founder “Colonel” Harland Sanders has apparently revealed the secret recipe for the world famous Original Recipe Kentucky fried chicken.
Joe Ledington reportedly showed a Chicago Tribune journalist a handwritten list of 11 ingredients and measurements, which was found in a scrapbook belonging to Colonel Sanders' late wife, Claudia, on the back of her last will and testament.
KFC's secret recipe revealed? Tribune shown family scrapbook with 11 herbs and spices https://t.co/k0ieLSbcPI pic.twitter.com/gg3NygwFqN — Chicago Tribune (@chicagotribune) August 19, 2016
Mr Ledington, 67, told the Tribune: "That is the original 11 herbs and spices that were supposed to be so secretive."
The mix includes thyme, basil, paprika, ground ginger - and the most important ingredient - white pepper.
"I call that the secret ingredient," Ledington told the Tribune. "Nobody (in the 1950s) knew what white pepper was. Nobody knew how to use it."
The newspaper cooked a batch according to the blend in the scrapbook and declared it “the real deal”.
But Ledington later claimed he never showed the reporter the handwritten ingredients, while the current owner of KFC, Yum! Brands, also disputed the discovery.
Despite this, many people now believe that this is the original secret recipe used by the fast food chain today.
The 'top-secret' recipe | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/kfcs-top-secret-recipe-been-11803377 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/ae182bac31c7b313250e2f633953c369badd41e501e20a04457a053bcb4cc409.json |
[
"Anuji Varma"
] | 2016-08-27T12:46:15 | null | 2016-08-27T12:43:58 | It happened at town centre branch at 2.20am | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fhalifax-ram-raiders-smash-car-11808083.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11808101.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Halifax-ram-raidJPG.jpg | en | null | Halifax ram raiders smash car into Sutton Coldfield bank and steal cashpoint | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Police at the scene of the Halifax ram raid in Sutton Coldfield town centre.
A “Gone in 60 Seconds”-style gang of ram raiders fled with a cashpoint after smashing a car into the front of a bank.
It happened at the branch in the Parade in Sutton Coldfield town centre at 2.20am on Friday.
A terrified witness said he feared for his life as he watched the gang pile the ATM into the back of an Audi after a Honda smashed through the front.
He said: “I saw the Audi pull up first and hit the kerb which I thought was a bit strange.
“Then the Honda drove straight into the front of the building.
“The men loaded up the Audi’s boot with the cash machine and it was half hanging out, but had been secured with something.
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“I knew they could see me so I tried to hide in some bushes.
“Then I heard one of the men say: ‘I have seen someone over there. We have to go and get him’.
“It felt like an eternity, until the other man said they hadn’t got time to deal with me.
The ruined Halifax branch after the ram raid in Sutton Coldfield.
“I was really shaken up by it.
“They then sped off and I called the police.”
Detectives were examining CCTV footage and forensics experts were sent to the scene.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating after a cash machine was ripped out of a wall at Halifax in Sutton Coldfield in the early hours of Friday August 26.
“The offenders got away in a car after having smashed through the glass front of the building.
“Forensic investigators have attended the scene and officers continue to investigate the burglary and are trawling CCTV for any clues.”
“Police are making enquiries at the scene and urge anyone with information to contact Force CID.”
Anyone with information should call police 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/halifax-ram-raiders-smash-car-11808083 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/48a5d4be3c84d1e8b1830d987db5e3783367472331f95a10ba7ff9ba3d7aafde.json |
[
"Graeme Brown",
"Patrick Scott"
] | 2016-08-30T06:47:02 | null | 2016-08-30T05:50:00 | New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions show that the number of people coming from overseas and registering for National Insurance numbers | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fhuge-fall-foreigners-coming-work-11815093.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11536549.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/The-EU-flag-after-Brexit-7615845368417290520.jpg | en | null | Huge fall in foreigners coming to work in the West Midlands | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The number of workers coming to the region fell while the EU referendum debate was taking place, new data reveals
The number of foreigners coming to work in the West Midlands plummeted by a third in the lead-up to the EU referendum.
New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions show that the number of people coming from overseas and registering for National Insurance numbers between April and June fell significantly across the UK.
Across the West Midlands 9,918 people from abroad applied for a National Insurance Number during this three-month period, 19.9 per cent fewer than between January and March.
The number of these registrations that went to EU citizens fell by a similar margin, down by 10.1 per cent from 8,949 to 7,241.
In both cases these falls were significantly larger than the UK averages of -15.3 per cent for all registrations and -14.4 per cent for EU citizens.
Coventry saw the largest decrease in area for total registrations from abroad with numbers down by 28.2 per cent from quarter to quarter.
However, the numbers across the West Midlands were actually an increase of 14.6 per cent across all National Insurance Number registrations when compared with the equivalent period in 2015 and 20.6 per cent for applications from the EU.
Across the UK as a whole there were 184,911 National Insurance Number registrations from adults coming from overseas in the three months from April to June.
This was a large decrease of 15.3 per cent compared with the 218,396 in the previous quarter but only a slight decrease compared with the 186,364 who registered in April to June 2015.
The number coming from the EU followed a similar pattern with figures down from 163,592 to 139,962 quarter on quarter but up slightly on the 138,956 registrations in the same months last year.
Registrations Apr-Jun 2016 (change on previous quarter)
Birmingham: 4,280 (-24.5 per cent)
Solihull: 170 (-28.0 per cent)
Wolverhampton: 1,304 (-10.6 per cent)
Walsall: 595 (-7.2 per cent)
Stratford-on-Avon: 216 (-3.1 per cent)
Dudley: 334 (-2.9 per cent)
Sandwell: 1,252 (-1.2 per cent) | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/huge-fall-foreigners-coming-work-11815093 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b71e18ec3c3dba8e40a3e31cb0c10c7b072b5f95febaaecb57e042bdb6005cb1.json |
[
"Sanjeeta Bains"
] | 2016-08-29T12:47:05 | null | 2016-08-29T11:26:46 | Former Turners chef Ben Tesh will host his fine dining pop-ups at Urban Coffee Company until Christmas | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fbirmingham-chef-extends-fine-dining-11814095.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11752589.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/pop-ups-in-Birmingham.jpg | en | null | Birmingham chef extends fine dining pop-up at Urban Coffee Company | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Back in May we announced that popular coffee shop Urban Coffee Company in Church Street would be hosting a series of summer fine dining pop-ups from Brummie chef Ben Tesh.
The pop ups have been so successful that Ben is now carrying on until Christmas.
Amy Huggett
The chef who has worked at various fine dining restaurants including former best restaurant in the world, Noma in Denmark as well as Michelin starred Turner’s told us: " I've really enjoyed doing the pop up and the reaction has been so amazing, we're going to continue.
"I'm taking a week off at the beginning of September. Then the pop up will be back every Fridays and Saturdays.
Laura Everall
"It would be great for more people to come and try fine dining as a pop up experience"
Ben who was chef de partie at Turners in 2013, added: "I love how pop ups break down that barrier that separates the chef and customer in most restaurants, so allowing me to be really interactive with my customers, which is something I love.
"The direct feedback is great way to keep learning and keep evolving my cooking for people to enjoy.
“Pop-ups definitely give chefs the ability to be more creative, flexible and experimental with my food."
The Urban Coffee Company in Church Street, Birmingham.
On the menu expect dishes such as dehydrated tomatoes, oyster leaf and green Juniper broth and chilled horseradish with wood sorrel granita and lemon verbena.
The food style will be seasonal and produce driven, with a continued focus to use wild ingredients. Ben will also be offering a Christmas menu in December.
From Friday September 9 onwards, every Fridays and Saturdays 7pm - 10pm
The menu priced £39. 50 for 6 courses (with an optional wine flight of £20)
To book contact info@ben-tesh.co.uk
30 Church St, B3 2NP | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/birmingham-chef-extends-fine-dining-11814095 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/bb55f8413690a245df53357f26064c1f076241601f610d07d157e0cf6b86952f.json |
[
"Darren Campbell"
] | 2016-08-26T22:46:28 | null | 2016-08-26T22:05:42 | Police arrest 19-year-old in Leicestershire after fatal knife attack in Birmingham city centre | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fteenager-arrested-suspicion-murder-after-11807380.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11791241.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/MQP_BEM_240816hill004JPG.jpg | en | null | Teenager arrested on suspicion of murder after Summer Lane stabbing | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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The video will start in
Police have arrested two teenagers after a man was stabbed to death in Birmingham city centre.
The attack happened on Summer Lane in Newtown at around 8pm on Tuesday, August 23. The 26-year-old victim was rushed to hospital but died on Thursday.
A post mortem revealed the man, who has not yet been formally identified, died as a result of a stab wound.
A 19-year-old man from Birmingham was arrested in Leicestershire on Friday afternoon on suspicion of murder.
The scene of the stabbing at the junction of Constitution Hill and Summer Lane
A second man, aged 19 from Leicester, was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Detective Inspector Paul Joyce, from West Midlands Police Force CID said: “The investigation is moving forward but we are still trying to piece together the circumstances of what happened.
“We would encourage anyone with information to get in contact with us.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
MORE - Bomb disposal crews swoop on city centre in terror probe: | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/teenager-arrested-suspicion-murder-after-11807380 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/e4e132e3156c7d5f2cba6a1334836b35180e320538f62d5f05c73872d15bc1cd.json |
[
"David Bentley"
] | 2016-08-26T14:48:40 | null | 2016-08-26T14:19:41 | Images from the past as Birmingham's oldest secular building and oldest pub celebrates incredible anniversary | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fnostalgia%2Famazing-pictures-show-how-old-11804697.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11804729.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/old-crown.jpg | en | null | Amazing pictures show how The Old Crown in Birmingham has stood the test of time for 648 years | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
The Live Event you are trying to watch is either unavailable or has not started Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
See the changes at The Old Crown over the centuries
To everyone who walks or drives past, The Old Crown stands out amid the more modern buildings surrounding it.
Excluding churches, this is the oldest building still standing in Birmingham.
It's also believed to be the oldest pub in the city.
The Old Crown dates back to 1368, which makes it a staggering 648 years old.
And there's a celebration on August 26 to mark the amazing anniversary. You can find out more about that here:
Watch our video slideshow above to see how the people and streets at The Old Crown have changed over the decades - while the pub exterior has stayed largely the same with its distinctive black and white timber exterior.
Back in 1368, the leap year when it was built, the Ming Dynasty was established in China, work started on the Great Wall of China and the National Library of France was founded at the Louvre in Paris by King Charles V, whose son and successor Charles VI was born at the end of the year.
Though it retains its original timber frame, most of the rest of the Grade II listed building dates from the early 16th century.
It was mentioned in 1538 as "a mansion house of tymber" and was then the Guildhall and School of St John.
In 1575, Queen Elizabeth I stayed there while on her way home from Kenilworth Castle.
And it was in 1626 - the year King Charles I was crowned - that it was first recorded as being an inn.
In 1666 there is the first mention of the building being known as “the Crowne” and it was in this year that King Charles II and the rest of the royal court returned to London at the end of the Great Plague.
The Old Crown also ended up in the midst of a bloody battle during the English Civil War.
Deritend - then referred to as Derrington and now regarded as part of Digbeth - became the site of the Battle of Camp Hill in 1643 when Prince Rupert, commander of the Royalist forces, launched an attack.
Birmingham was targeted because its citizens were fiercely opposed to the Royalists and had been capturing them and sending the prisoners to Coventry - hence the saying ‘sent to Coventry’ for when someone is excluded or ostracised.
Local people were outnumbered against Rupert's troops - many were slaughtered by the soldiers and more than 100 houses were burned down.
But somehow the Old Crown survived all this and is said to have been the last building left standing. It retains that status today.
Like many historic sites, it still has its ghosts to remind us of the past.
An old well in the courtyard has been described a hotspot for supernatural activity.
There’s said to be the spirit of a woman wandering around longing for her lost child who had died after falling down the well.
Among other apparitions reported in the pub is a lady in old-fashioned clothing who vanishes into thin air, a Victorian figure in the cellar, a mysterious mist in one of the bedrooms, staff having their bottoms pinched by invisible presences and a bottle seen rolling on to the floor in the bar. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/nostalgia/amazing-pictures-show-how-old-11804697 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/d8dcea6d0a9b5ae50cb290b8199fa1afbd4137b1e9fdf7ffdcd95ac1fba86baf.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-26T14:47:23 | null | 2016-08-26T13:35:25 | Skip load of rubbish left in Birmingham cul-de-sac | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fflytippers-dump-toilet-city-street-11804214.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11804480.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98001375.jpg | en | null | Flytippers dump TOILET on city street, plus pram, fridge and bed | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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A Birmingham street was turned into an open air dump after flytippers left huge amounts of rubbish on the road - including a toilet.
Tons of waste including pipes, mattresses, bricks, carpets, prams, fridges and bed-frames were left on Baker Street in Small Heath .
Regular litter picker Javid Iqbal, 47, discovered the “diabolical” mess and has now reported it to the council.
The dad-of-three, from Bordesley Green, said: “It looks like three skip loads have been dumped there. It’s disgusting.
Toilet dumped in Baker Street
“It hurts you because you are trying to keep this place clean yet some members of the community let you down. It’s only a minority."
“What’s so shocking about this dump is the toilet, bathroom and hazardous appliances like piping. You can’t even walk on the footpath.
“We need to put a stop to this, residents need to raise up if they want this area clean so children can grow up and be good citizens, it doesn’t take much. We all live in Birmingham.”
The heap was promptly cleared by Birmingham City Council today.
Alison Harwood, Service Director for Regulation and Enforcement at Birmingham City Council, said: “Whether it is one bag of rubbish, a broken sofa or several tonnes of rubbish, fly-tipping is a blight and completely unacceptable.
“Somebody will know who is responsible for this mess. It is not right to throw your unwanted items into the streets, and we need to tackle this together."
Flytippers target Baker Street
She added: “This is being done by a minority of people that do not care about their neighbourhood and the impact this has on others. We would ask local residents or anybody with information to come forward and help us to bring to justice those responsible.
“We can and do prosecute when we have credible evidence. We will not hesitate to do this, so the courts can then issue the punishments they see fit.”
Earlier this month Mr Iqbal made another shocking video (see below) showing bin bags, garden waste, fences, mattresses and even a fridge stacked high on Parliament Street, also in Small Heath. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/flytippers-dump-toilet-city-street-11804214 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/6d7c11fc237859ff4522da74f30ea6254e584e36e1f401826d0c1df451dc193b.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-30T08:47:13 | null | 2016-08-30T09:16:39 | Alex Dicken
profiles the latest striker to be linked with a switch to Villa Park | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwho-aston-villa-target-diego-11816779.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11816730.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98251365.jpg | en | null | Who is Aston Villa target Diego Rolan? All you need to know about Aston Villa's latest transfer target | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Diego Rolan won't be a name on many Aston Villa fans' lips, but he is the latest in a long line of strikers to be linked with a switch to B6 this summer.
Such is Rolan's ability, he has also been linked with European giants Bayern Munich and Manchester United for the Uruguayan's signature.
As well as the two aforementioned clubs, Premier League side Everton and Championship rivals Brighton and Norwich City are also thought to be keen on the forward.
But what could Rolan bring to Villa Park?
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Background
Rolan was born and raised in Montevideo, the same place as footballing great and his international team mate Luis Suarez.
After coming through the ranks at Defensor Sporting, he went on to make 38 appearances for the first team and scored 10 goals.
His performances earned him his big move to Europe with French side Bordeux, where he has gone on to make a bit of a name for himself.
He has scored 22 times in the last two seasons, with 15 of those coming in the 2014/15 season.
The move to the Ligue 1 side came on the back of a terrific South American Youth Championship performance with the under-20 side.
He scored four goals in the tournament, which was held in Argentina, and helped his country to a third placed finish.
Suarez' ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil saw him suspended for the following year's Copa America. Rolan was called up as his replacement and handed the Barcelona man's famous number nine shirt.
He has scored three times in 17 outings for his country.
Shinji Okazaki of Japan, Diego Rolan of Uruguay and Yuto Nagatomo of Japan
Playing style
Like so many of the strikers linked with Villa in the past few weeks, Rolan fits the type of striker that Roberto Di Matteo wants to bring in.
The theme of the last few weeks has been South American strikers with Rolan's link coming days after Dr Tony Xia suggested the club would no longer be pursuing Enner Valencia or Abel Hernandez.
Rolan has plenty of pace and prefers to play on the shoulder of the last man, something Villa are crying out for at present.
He is just 23-years-old which means he has plenty of room for development and should be able to make the step-up if the club are able to negotiate a successful return to the Premier League.
Personality
From what we can gather, Rolan seems willing to put the team before any personal glories.
The striker was forced by Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez to sacrifice his own attacking game for the good of the team after being called up for last year's Copa America.
He obviously impressed the coach enough while deputising for the suspended Suarez because he has been a fixture in the squad ever since.
He was part of the side that travelled to the United States this summer where Uruguay were knocked out in the group stages. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/who-aston-villa-target-diego-11816779 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/93317b00e17a573e51d78818bda026f9289c44bd1f4f1fe3c568aae5cf8a81f0.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-28T00:46:20 | null | 2016-08-28T00:01:00 | The mum is grieving the death of her three-year-old son | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Ftamworth-x-factor-hopeful-rebekah-11808739.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11808917.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/BP1013555.jpg | en | null | Tamworth X Factor hopeful Rebekah Ryan has judges in tears over tragic son | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Above: X Factor judge Nicole Sherzinger impersonates Britney Spears and Shakira
Mum Rebekah Ryan provides this weekend’s most emotional X Factor audition as she tells the judges her heartbreaking story.
The 40-year-old, from Tamworth, has Sharon Osbourne in tears with her emotional singing and tragic history.
Rebekah is auditioning 23 years after first becoming a star, and 14 years after the death of her little boy Ethan.
Ethan Douglas aged three
He was born with a rare brian disease after a one-in-a-million cruel twist of fate – she and her record producer husband Johnny Douglas both had genetic faults which were passed on to Ethan.
He was born with Sandhoff Syndrome and unable to speak, walk or see. Doctors expected him to die at two but he battled on until he was three and a half, dying in July 2002.
At his heartwrenching funeral, a teddy bear sat on top of a tiny white coffin and Rebekah released 100 balloons into the air as a tribute.
Rebekah Ryan launches balloons at the funeral of her son Ethan
Rebekah tells The X Factor judges in Sunday night’s episode that she is a single mum to seven-year-old Seb, living in Tamworth with her parents, and that she had another son who died.
She sings Take Me To Church by Hozier and then, after Simon Cowell felt it was too rushed, she sings Angel by Sarah McLachlan.
Simon then says: “I felt every word of that. You’re a fighter. What you told me was very emotional. Every step of the way we were with you.”
Singer Rebekah Ryan in tears on The X Factor
Sharon, choking up, says: “You gave a very passionate performance. You came from a place of emotion. And when you started to tell your story...you’re going to start me off.”
And Louis agrees: “You sang from the heart and I believed every word of it.”
This is not the first time Rebekah has auditioned for The X Factor and not her first time on TV.
She is hoping that this audition will be her FOURTH comeback.
Rebekah Ryan, pictured on her single A Little Bit of Love
She was just 17 when she first signed to a major label in 1993, after appearing on Des O’Connor’s Pot of Gold. She won £1,000 on the TV talent show and was signed by MCA in a five-album deal.
But little happened for three years until she had a hit with You Lift Me Up in 1996.
The follow up, Just A Little Bit of Love, attracted attention when X-rated scenes in the raunchy video had to be cut for TV - watch it below.
Rebekah toured with Boyzone and performed alongside East 17 and Peter Andre at Birmingham’s Party in the Park in 1996.
She was suddenly dropped in 1997 and it seemed her musical career was over.
The following year she married Jon but they split up the following year.
In 2001, after taking time out and working as a waitress and a part-time model, Rebekah signed to Jive Records, home to Britney Spears and Steps, and released the album Big Trouble (Lots of Fun) dedicated to her terminally-ill son Ethan.
Rebekah Ryan with baby Ethan aged six weeks
She and husband Jon divorced in 1999.
In 2007 she had her third comeback when she auditioned for The X Factor, reaching Louis Walsh’s Judges Houses as one of the final 12 in the over 25s group.
On The X Factor, Rebekah explains: “I was signed to MCA at 17, a huge thing to happen for me. When you’re dropped it stripped away every bit of confidence I had.
Rebekah's You Lift Me Up video
“At a young age I felt like such a failure. You have to rebuild yourself.
“Life as a single mum is quite hard. The past year has been tough. This could be a new beginning, to prove to my son that mummy’s got it.”
“Singing is all I know how to do, it’s my love and passion.”
The X Factor is on ITV tonight, Sunday August 28, at 8pm | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/tamworth-x-factor-hopeful-rebekah-11808739 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f4cef64feccf42a7617d843b41e6888230165188f947b87061e6687eb5a7aa1d.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-31T14:47:38 | null | 2016-08-31T14:43:06 | Aston Villa fans have posted their reactions to the club signing Middlesbrough winger Albert Adomah | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Faston-villa-fans-react-signing-11824419.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11814470.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS87585466.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa fans react to the signing of Albert Adomah from Middlesbrough | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Aston Villa announced the signing of Middlesbrough winger Albert Adomah earlier and fans were clearly delighted by the news.
The club's dealings with Boro might not be completely done just yet with want away winger Adama Traore still angling for a move to Teeside.
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Villa also allowed Brad Guzan to join Middlesbrough on a free transfer earlier in the window.
One Villa fan was very happy with what the outcome of the transfers between the two clubs could be. He posted: "So just to be clear - if things go as expected, in this transfer window we get Adomah from Boro and they get Guzan & Adama?"
So just to be clear - if things go as expected, in this transfer window we get Adomah from @Boro and they get Guzan & Adama? HAHAHA #avfc — KJ Villa (@KarlJennings88) August 31, 2016
Thanks once again to @Dr_TonyXia & RDM & the Villa crew 4 signing a very promising player Welcome to the #avfc #family Albert Adomah #avfc — Gema Lilley (@GemalilleyAVFC) August 31, 2016
Adama
Adam
Ada
Ad
Ado
Adom
Adoma
Adomah#avfc — Lochan (@lochan_AVFC) August 31, 2016
Superb transfer window so far for #avfc . Just need a centre half now and then the pressure is RDM. #UTV — Brendan Keenan (@roys_boys) August 31, 2016
Our Incomings list is just as mental.
Gollini
Elphick
Chester
De Laet
Jedinak
Tshibola
Adomah
McCormack
Kodjia#avfc — Matt Lynch (@mattlyynch) August 31, 2016
Adomah is a good signing! Runs at defenders and causes problems which is a winger we've needed for years! #Avfc — Aston Villa Updates (@AstonVilla_info) August 31, 2016
The transfer hasn't officially been announced by the club yet, but Dr Tony Xia informed us of the deal earlier today. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-fans-react-signing-11824419 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/3568d3a6e68443dab84ea47f0d83bd628703960a209616190c9bb6917466aff1.json |
[
"Alison Stacey"
] | 2016-08-26T18:46:06 | null | 2016-08-26T19:00:00 | David Morsley was diagnosed with a brain tumour in December | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fdying-dad-celebrate-christmas-early-11805399.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11805742.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/david1.jpg | en | null | Dying Dad to celebrate Christmas early as he is told he has weeks to live | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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A DYING Birmingham Dad is planning to have Christmas four months early with his beloved family after being told he has just weeks to live.
Factory employee David Morsley, 27, was diagnosed with a grade 4 brain tumour in December after collapsing at work.
The dad-of-three, from Kingstanding, underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment, but sadly discovered on Thursday the tumour had returned.
Medics at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital told David his health could rapidly deteriorate in the next six weeks, and that he would not see Christmas.
David and Cally Morsley with their children Oscar, four, Kayne, five and Taylor-James, nine
Now the brave dad plans an early Christmas next month with his three sons, Taylor-James, nine, Kayne, five and four-year-old Oscar and his wife Cally.
Meanwhile, sister-in-law Gemma Hewett has set up a Go Fund Me page to help David and his family cherish their last weeks together.
She said: “We decided that we want to bring Christmas forward so that the boys can have happy memories to cherish when David is gone.”
David Morsley has been told he has weeks to live after being diagnosed with a brain tumour
The news the treatment had failed had left all the family devastated and had followed a series of mini-seizures.
Gemma said: “David had suffered with seizures before, but these were different as they were on the other side of the body. He was fast-tracked to get an MRI scan, and they found the tumour had grown back in a different place.
“As usual David is taking it all in his stride, and is making jokes. “
David with wife Cally, son Taylor James, nine, Kayne, five, and Oscar, four celebrating Christmas
The early Christmas party is being staged at St Luke’s Church, complete with presents, Father Christmas and a turkey dinner.
David and Cally renewed their vows at the church in February, and their youngest son Oscar was christened in the same ceremony.
“It was a beautiful day,” adds Gemma, 30.
“David has been so brave and we want him to give the send off he deserves.
“I want his boys to know how special he is - and how loved he was by all of us.”
*To donate visit: https:// www.gofundme.com/2aa88qss | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/dying-dad-celebrate-christmas-early-11805399 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/2ac0737d825783d7ef1128a36fc9b5c1f668f44c1cf7144da8c41ac04f115804.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-29T16:47:57 | null | 2016-08-29T17:18:17 | Former Everton scholar Callum McManaman could be Toon bound | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fout-favour-west-brom-winger-11815768.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11785421.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97746892.jpg | en | null | Out of favour West Brom winger in talks with Newcastle | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Callum McManaman gets away from Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson.
Callum McManaman's stagnant spell at West Bromwich Albion could be nearing an end with the out of favour winger in talks over a potential move to Newcastle United.
It was thought Newcastle had planned to focus solely on a loan deal for Chelsea youngster Christian Atsu.
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But it now seems that the Magpies are keen to land two wingers before the transfer window closes, with McManaman the second option.
McManaman was Tony Pulis' first signing as Albion manager and cost £4.75 million when he joined from Wigan Athletic in January 2015.
But the fiery Scouser, who is also interesting QPR and Derby County, has failed to command a regular place under Pulis.
West Brom target Ignacio Camacho confirms his desire to move
"I expect McManaman to leave, we'll get our money back on him," Pulis said after Sunday's 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough at the Hawthorns.
Most of McManaman's 15 appearances last season came off the bench.
The former Everton trainee has made 25 appearances in all for Albion, without a goal.
He has not featured in a first team squad this season, but has kept up fitness levels by playing two games for Jimmy Shan's Under 23s. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/out-favour-west-brom-winger-11815768 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/6335d307005c2c11a93bf1510cf8ef6f596a2d384063c0161fe40f84e2849d85.json |
[
"Nick Mccarthy"
] | 2016-08-29T10:47:14 | null | 2016-08-29T11:19:04 | Victim shot in the early hours near the popular Hurst Street part of Birmingham city centre | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fmajor-investigation-after-targeted-shooting-11813924.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11813882.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Thorp-Street.jpg | en | null | Major investigation after 'targeted' shooting in Birmingham city centre | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Detectives have launched another major shooting investigation after a teenager was shot in the leg in Birmingham city centre in the early hours of this morning.
The 18-year-old victim was shot in Thorp Street, off Hurst Street, just after 4.10am in what police have described as “a targeted attack.”
The road, along with Hurst Street and part of Bristol Street remains sealed off this morning.
Police say the victim was found in the street with non-life threatening injuries and is in a stable condition in hospital.
The road, which is home to the Birmingham Royal Ballet, remains closed as forensic teams work at the scene.
Inspector Christian Wilkins, from West Midlands Police, said: “We believe this to be a targeted attack and fortunately the man’s injuries are not life threatening.
“We have conducted a detailed forensic search of the area, Thorpe Street at Hurst and Bristol Street will remain closed this morning as part of the investigation.”
Anyone with information can call detectives on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/major-investigation-after-targeted-shooting-11813924 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/6f956d49b3cbe09c73bc622a362dfc8d6e5b218933054e0c06eddade1d15781c.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-31T10:48:35 | null | 2016-08-31T10:58:43 | Alex Dicken looks at why Fulham are willing to let Richard Stearman return to Wolves after just a season away | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Frichard-stearman-heres-sensational-return-11822532.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11066455.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS85434959.jpg | en | null | Richard Stearman: Here's why a sensational return to Wolves is happening | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Richard Stearman's move to Wolves last summer was greeted by anger from fans, but has now completed a sensational return to Molineux.
The defender was amazingly deemed surplus to requirements just a few months after receiving the club's player of the year award.
But why is he returning to the Black Country?
Well, he has fallen out of favour at Craven Cottage following the arrival of Slavisa Jokanovic. Fulham's signings of Michael Madl and Chelsea's Tomas Kalas have bumped Stearman and his defensive partner from last season, Tim Ream, down the pecking order.
But Stearman's situation is far more precarious than the American's and he is currently fourth choice in West London.
The injuries to Mike Williamson and Ethan Ebanks-Landell have forced Walter Zenga's hand in the transfer market with the Italian having closed a deal for his 12th summer signing.
Stearman's move to Molineux is initially on loan with a view to a permanent deal. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/richard-stearman-heres-sensational-return-11822532 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f7c80b3b1a79de57e8ce2d368135f11e6548204cbfc0f21b839873dc63f4e889.json |
[
"Jane Tyler"
] | 2016-08-26T20:46:38 | null | 2016-08-26T20:00:00 | Stefan Kelly met the woman on Tinder and threatened to 'go viral' with nude pictures when she dumped him | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fspurned-tinder-lover-bombarded-student-11805717.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11805842.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Stefan-Kelly-main-pic.jpg | en | null | Spurned Tinder lover bombarded student with messages demanding sex | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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A spurned lover threatened to “go viral” with nude pictures of an ex-lover he had met on Tinder when she dumped him for someone else, a court heard.
Stefan Kelly, 30, bombarded the student with texts, WhatsApp messages and phone calls when she ended their relationship.
He thought they were in a relationship, but his victim told police she only regarded him as a one-night stand.
Stefan Kelly leaving Birmingham magistrates' court
Kelly, 30, of Holders Garden, Moseley, pleaded guilty to harassment by sending the woman a number of abusive messages and phone calls and threatening to share nude photographs of her.
Angela Hallan, prosecuting at Birmingham magistrates court, said Kelly met the 23-year-old woman on the online dating app Tinder in February of this year.
They chatted via the app for a few weeks and then met in person when Kelly visited the woman at her student accommodation, where an “intimate relationship” began.
They carried on communicating with each other via Tinder, which has a GPS locator, and the woman noticed Kelly kept asking her “where are you?” so she ended the relationship and told him to leave her alone.
But the court heard by April he was getting abusive through his messages to her on WhatsApp, so she blocked him and again told him to stop contacting her.
“He then told her he would ‘go viral’ with nude pictures she had sent to him,” Ms Hallan said.
“He also tried to visit her at the student premises, but she got other people to throw him out.”
The couple exchanged messages via WhatsApp
There followed a short period when she didn’t hear from him and she thought he’d got the message.
But then at the end of April he contacted her again, this time by phone withholding his number.
Birmingham magistrates' court
Ms Hallan said: “He was apologising for his behaviour and asking if she’d like to meet up again and have sex with him.
“She told him to leave her alone, but several more calls followed, all from the same withheld number and she recorded the conversations on her phone and also kept the voicemails he left.”
Charmaine Robinson, defending, said Kelly “didn’t appreciate” at the time how distressing his behaviour was. But she claimed the victim wasn’t entirely blameless as her client had shown her WhatsApp messages the woman had sent him - after she had told him to leave her alone.
Ms Robinson said Kelly was now in a new relationship and expecting his first child, but hadn’t taken the break-up well.
Tinder, the dating online through which the couple met.
“They were not a one night stand, as the woman suggested to police, it was a relationship, albeit a short one,” she said.
“It came to an abrupt end, to his dismay, and he tried to get clarity as to why it ended and she told him she had met someone else.”
She said the couple had exchanged nude pictures of themselves, and Kelly did threaten to send out nude pictures of her, but it was a “blank threat”.
Magistrates sentenced Kelly to a 12 month community order, ordered him to carry out unpaid work, pay costs totalling £220 and imposed a two-year restraining order. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/spurned-tinder-lover-bombarded-student-11805717 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/abc3e33439000898b0489d0c5d469ad5be8f86729b9f8c313bcf03a610a35d37.json |
[
"Alison Stacey"
] | 2016-08-27T18:46:58 | null | 2016-08-27T18:18:02 | They can now be held until Friday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fbirmingham-terror-arrests-extra-time-11809507.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11807279.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/img_1377.jpg | en | null | Birmingham terror arrests: Extra time for police to quiz 5 suspects | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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The video will start in
Police have been granted more time to question five men arrested on suspicion of terror offences on Friday.
Bomb disposal teams were called into central Birmingham on Friday afternoon following the arrests detained in the city and Stoke.
SNAPPERSK Police and bomb disposal crews on Bath Row
Detectives from the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit appeared before London’s Westminster Magistrates Court via video link on Saturday to request a warrant to extend time for questioning.
Police now have until the morning of Friday September 2 to detain the five men, who were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
SNAPPERSK Police and bomb disposal crews in Birmingham city centre
Part of Bath Row and a number of surrounding streets were cordoned off on Friday afternoon as the emergency crews swooped on an address in Florence Street.
Police said they were continuing to search addresses across the West Midlands and Staffordshire as the investigation continued at “full pace”.
Fire crews on scene at police incident near Bath Row
The men, aged 18, 24, 28, 32 and 37 were arrested as part of an intelligence-led policing operation.
Chief Supt Sue Southern, of West Midlands Police , said: “The arrests of the five men were intelligence led and our investigation continues at full pace.”
Anyone with information about possible terrorist activity should call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or dial 999 in an emergency. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/birmingham-terror-arrests-extra-time-11809507 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/838741072b2dde2d63444c6c4b028fec2bdb229a72cc4f5a4a6f59e97068ccb7.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-31T12:48:48 | null | 2016-08-31T12:46:40 | Burnley frontman signs up for temporary spell | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fconfirmed-birmingham-city-seal-loan-11823346.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11822789.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Jutkiewicz.jpg | en | null | Confirmed: Birmingham City seal the loan signing of Lukas Jutkiewicz | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Birmingham City have signed Burnley striker Lukas Jutkiewicz until January 2.
Jutkiewicz has recently returned to full fitness after suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury at the start of last season
The 27-year-old has featured twice off the bench for the Clarets in the Premier League and started during their EFL Cup loss to Accrington Stanley.
Blues are believed to have beaten off competition from Championship rivals Ipswich Town to seal the deal.
OFFICIAL: We are delighted to confirm the signing of @Lukeyjuke on loan until 2 January #BCFC #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/3cJMejXSwu — Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) 31 August 2016
Jutkiewicz began his career at Swindon, making a £1million switch to Everton in 2007. He appeared only once for the Toffees before being sold to Coventry City in 2010 for an undisclosed fee.
A £1.3m move to Middlesbrough followed and he went onto to score 11 goals in 64 at the Riverside before heading to Turf Moor for £1.5m in July 2014. He is yet to score a competitive goal in his 35 appearances for the Clarets. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/confirmed-birmingham-city-seal-loan-11823346 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/145b21086b618531e4df95536920299995ff00689d1a7ddf9e63e83b3b2e61e3.json |
[
"Amardeep Bassey"
] | 2016-08-27T18:46:27 | null | 2016-08-27T18:11:05 | Police had to break through years of distrust to bring killers of teenage girls to justice | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fburger-bar-boys-aston-shootings-11809551.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article326046.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Letisha%20Shakespeare%20and%20Charlene%20Ellis.jpg | en | null | Burger Bar Boys: 'Aston shootings witnesses became deaf and blind' | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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The Aston shootings shocked the nation and led to an unprecedented West Midlands Police investigation, with detectives vowing to catching the killers.
But years of distrust had put up a seemingly impregnable wall of silence between the police and local community and the search for gunmen who had murdered two innocent girls proved to be painstakingly slow.
There were up to 120 people packed into the hairdressers on the New Year’s morning when Letisha Shakespeare and Charlene Ellis were killed , but not a single witness came forward voluntarily.
As one senior investigating police officer said at the time: “People were telling us they were tying their shoelace or had gone to the toilet and saw or heard nothing when a sub machine gun and handgun were being discharged just yards away.”
As a relative of one of the victims would later lament in a thinly veiled rebuke: “There were people there that saw and became blind and heard and became deaf.”
A breakthrough finally came when the red Mondeo used by the killers was found burnt out and further forensic clues and mobile phone tracking led to four arrests.
Aston shooting killers, Marcus Ellis, Michael Gregory, Nathan Martin and Rodrigo Simms
At their Leicester Crown Court trial in 2005, Marcus Ellis, Nathan Martin, Michael Gregory and Rodrigo Simms were all found guilty of the murders and jailed for life .
The court heard how all four men had maintained silence throughout police interviews.
Only one prosecution witness had been prepared to name the killers –and then only if his identity was hidden and his voice electronically distorted.
Letisha Shakespeare and Charlene Ellis
The convictions gave the authorities a renewed vigour to go after the Burger Bar Boys - the so-called untouchables - and though gangland shootings continued, 2005 marked a high point in the fight against guns and gangs.
Leading members of the Johnson Crew , including one of its figure heads William “Milly” Carter, were also handed long jail terms for shooting dead an innocent 24-year-old nightclub doorman Ishfaq Ahmed, who’d tried to stop the gangsters pushing their way into Premonitions nightclub.
At their trial the court witnesses told how they heard gang members egging each other on, shouting: "Get the ting (gun) out, show em it's real" and "Smoke him (shoot him)" and "Give it to him."
By the end of 2005 police were confident they had taken an entire generation of gun-toting gangsters off the streets by jailing them for a total of 496 years.
In a massive crackdown since the New Year's Day shootings, more than 20 leading members of the notorious Burger Bar Boys and Johnson Crew had received some of the heaviest sentences ever handed out in UK courts.
Police said they had jailed 42 of their 50 'Most Wanted' gangland figures, leading to a dramatic 25 per cent reduction in gun-related crimes across the West Midlands.
Marcia Shakespeare and (inset) her daughter Letisha
The police crackdown meant the Burgers were a spent force by the mid 2000s but their demise served to splinter them and their rivals into smaller more unpredictable and chaotic gangs whose members were becoming ever younger.
One detective likened investigating the new breed of gangs as akin to “wrestling with smoke” because of their fluidity and lack of order or real heirarchy.
Very few Burger Bar gang members got rich through crime – many were shot dead or ended up in jail, while others just got older and settled down into an ordinary working life.
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One loose end in the story of the rise and fall of the Burgers however took until this year to be tied up.
Leading gang member Nosakhere “Nossa” Stephenson had been jailed for life for the murder of Ashai Walker, despite the judge expressing reservations that the defendant had even been present at the time of the killing.
Stephenson was eventually retried and released after an appeal making detectives fear that he would take to the streets again and influence the new generation of gangsters.
He was eventually caught in a major undercover operation which saw the recovery of a of eight firearms, including a MAC-10 machine gun and pump action shotgun found buried in a garden in Aston, as well as thousands of rounds of ammunition.
The sting, which was set up in summer 2014 and carried out by West Midlands Police's Serious and Organised Crime Unit, involved surveillance over many months and saw detectives intercept the movement of weapons from suppliers to buyers on five separate occasions.
Although Stephenson was never caught in possession of the guns, phone records linked him to each deal and every other person in the conspiracy.
He would source antique guns and arrange for ammunition to be specially made to fit the weapons. They would then be sold on to criminal gangs for considerable profit, at around £3,000 apiece.
Stephenson and 14 others admitted conspiracy to transfer guns and ammunition between March 4, 2014 and January 17, 2015, while three others were found guilty following a trial.
Stephenson was jailed for life.
Chief Insp Simon Wallis, from West Midlands Police’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit, said: “Stephenson or ‘Nosa’ was widely-regarded as the untouchable ‘Godfather’ of the Burger Bar gang but as this case goes to show, nobody is above the law." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/burger-bar-boys-aston-shootings-11809551 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/7f1de3a124f1b815843a957dcf41bda2832c32bd6d1cf94c1f8d97c9f23157c9.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-30T18:47:49 | null | 2016-08-30T17:55:20 | The likes of Dwight Yorke, Sebastian Larsson, Jermaine Pennant and Obafemi Martins are among the deadline day deals - but how much were you paying attention? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fbirmingham-city-transfer-deadline-day-11820759.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11820721.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Alexander-Hleb.jpg | en | null | Birmingham city transfer deadline day quiz: How well do you know Blues' last-minute deals? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Transfer deadline day - what a day to be a Blues fan!
Without it, there would be no Alexander Hleb, no Wilson Palacios... and Jack Butland would still be St Andrew's.
The transfer window has been a feature of English football for more than a decade, and Blues have played a part in a lot of last-minute drama.
The likes of Dwight Yorke, Sebastian Larsson, Jermaine Pennant and Obafemi Martins have all joined the club during the last knockings of the transfer window - bringing varied success to the team.
The likes of Butland, along with Cameron Jerome and Sone Aluko are among those to have departed.
But how much do you know about Blues' last-minute activity? We want to put it to the test with our new transfer deadline day quiz.
Let us know how you get on at the Blues Birmingham Mail Facebook page once you’re done. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/birmingham-city-transfer-deadline-day-11820759 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/d6745da6cbb211c5e24539a218e21530a1c0d41e61a01272f06d3cba8e5faff0.json |
[
"Sanjeeta Bains"
] | 2016-08-29T18:46:47 | null | 2016-08-29T17:53:11 | There are lots of super events happening all over the city | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Famazing-things-birmingham-september-11815992.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11216499.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/chili-festival.jpg | en | null | Amazing things to do in Birmingham this September | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | September is shaping up to being a spectacular month in Birmingham. We recently told you about the exciting bar and restaurants opening in what we have dubbed Super September
And there is so much more going on in our fab city - from children's book delights coming to life, opportunities to meet superstars to snapping up red hot tickets, there really is something for everyone in our list. Have a super September,
Watch The Custard Factory become the Chocolate Factory
Gene Wilder in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
In honour of author Roald Dahl's 100th birthday, Saturday September 10 will be Roald Dahl Fun Day at The Custard Factory.
It will be the place to be for chocoholics, as the family event will feature lots of scrumdiddlyumptious sweets and chocolate stalls, street food, face painting, children’s rides and competitions.
Find out more here
Buy an iphone 7 at the new Apple Store
The new Apple store should be opening in September
After waiting what seems like forever , the massive new Apple store is opening in September - just time for the launch of the eagerly awaited iPhone 7.
And the Grade II listed former banking hall – best-known in recent years as Waterstones book store will be a swish and much needed emporium for all things techy. As we know the Apple shop in The Bullring was ridiculously tiny for Brum.
Meet the greatest footballer of all time
Yui Mok/PA Wire Football legend Pele.
After a recent health scare, Brazillian footballer Pele announced on Twitter he will be in Cannock in September! We know it's more further afield than Brum but surely this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for any football fan!
The post on the 75 year old's official Twitter account on Tuesday read: "Join me for lunch in Cannock, England on September 18 at The Premier Suite."
Silver tickets are gone but the more pricey ones - the Gold tickets - which include a signed shirt and VIP package - are still available and on sale for £650.
Pele to attend Cannock event after missing Olympic ceremony
Fine dine at a fraction of the normal price
Laura Everall One of the six courses at Ben Tesh's fine dining pop up at Urban Coffee Company
The chef who has worked at fine dining restaurants including former best restaurant in the world, Noma in Denmark as well as Michelin starred Turner’s is continuing his pop ups at Urban Coffee Company on Church Street.
Expect dishes such as dehydrated tomatoes, oyster leaf and green Juniper broth and chilled horseradish with wood sorrel granita and lemon verbena.
From Friday September 9 onwards, every Fridays and Saturdays 7pm - 10pm
The menu priced £39. 50 for 6 courses (with an optional wine flight of £20)
To book contact info@ben-tesh.co.uk
30 Church St, B3 2NP
Discover a secret place in Birmingham
More than 150 events are taking place during Birmingham Heritage Week from September 8 to 18 enabling you discover parts of the city you’ve probably never seen before – and many of them free!
Birmingham Heritage Week takes place from September 8 to 18. Find out more here
Chin Chin for gin!
Gin and Tonic
The Gin Festival is back in Birmingham on September 2 and takes place at The Bond in Digbeth.
So get ready Brum for three days of gin quaffing. At the UK's largest gin event, Brummies can try over a 100 different varieties of gin, as well as food from local vendors and live music performances. For tickets go to GinFestival.com.
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Get your red hot tickets for Red Hot Chill Peppers
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Okay not strictly happening in September. But the tickets go on sale in September and they are sure to be red hot property. It's the first time in five years the award winning band with be on tour in the UK – and they’re playing two dates in Birmingham.
Tickets go on sale at 10am on September 2 by clicking here or calling 0844 338 8222. They cost from £58.35 to £91.35.
Birmingham Chilli Festival is back
Things heat up for the chilli eaters
If you miss out on tickets to see The Peppers, don't worry there's lot of the real thing here!
the highlight of the festival is Chilli Challenge on the Saturday. Last year Lou Witterick retained the chilli crown, chomping through ghost chillies, Scotch bonnets and more, watched in awe and admiration by the festival crowds.
The much loved festival takes place on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17 in Brindleyplace.
Moseley Folk Festival's 10th anniversary
Simon Hadley The Destroyers at Moseley Folk Festival in 2010
The Moseley Folk Festival is back. In the past it has played host to the likes of The Monkees, Johnny Marr, Edwyn Collins and Ocean Colour Scene.
This year acts include The Coral, The Proclaimers, Levellers and Billy Bragg. Moseley Park is a lovely woodland oasis, and you don’t have to walk 500 miles to see The Proclaimers as it’s just two miles from Birmingham city centre.
Moseley Folk Festival runs from September 2-4 2016. Tickets cost £99 for the weekend
Moseley Folk Festival line-up 2016 | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/amazing-things-birmingham-september-11815992 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8e1740d8d672fdf8b69ac87af973d4510d31c3a5da9c4e1bb421a7fb8738bc0c.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-27T16:48:20 | null | 2016-08-27T15:55:06 | Moving minute's applause in honour of Will Falck | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fmoment-aston-villa-fans-paid-11808824.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11767048.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Will-Falck.jpg | en | null | This is the moment Aston Villa fans paid tribute to one of their own | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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This is how Aston Villa fans paid tribute to one of their own, Will Falck, during today’s match at Bristol City.
Will, 24, tragically lost his battle with cancer last Tuesday and was remembered by the claret and blue family with a minute’s applause in the 24th minute.
Bristol City fans joined in during a poignant tribute at Ashton Gate.
His twin brother, George, spoke last week of his “friendly, passionate and loyal friend” and how he saw off liver cancer before finding out that he had four brain tumours in May this year.
Will was visited by ‘his absolute idol’, Stiliyan Petrov during his final days at a hospital on the Wirral, where he lived. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/moment-aston-villa-fans-paid-11808824 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/25b3ef4cf4cedb4b814c0d1acdd20a79b697395dcb5f8b13f8b883ca7fcf2b44.json |
[
"Tamlyn Jones"
] | 2016-08-31T04:46:52 | null | 2016-08-31T05:00:00 | Resignation letter from 1916 and Christmas event calendar among a host of artefacts found by developers renovating Birmingham's historic former Grand hotel | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Frare-finds-give-grand-glimpse-11818852.json | http://i2.birminghampost.co.uk/news/regional-affairs/article11818925.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/The-Grand-3.jpg | en | null | Rare finds give Grand glimpse into hotel's history | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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A resignation letter from 1916, a spooky note left by an angry member of staff and the fanciest of fancy menus from the late 1800s are just some of the artefacts discovered during the restoration of The Grand in Birmingham.
Property company Hortons' Estate has been giving the historic, Grade II*-listed building in Colmore Row a long overdue renovation which will eventually welcome new bars, office occupiers and a hotel.
But the project has also given the family-owned company a fascinating glimpse into what went on in the old building before it closed in 2002.
Among the other items discovered are a calendar of Christmas parties for 1973 - with tickets for a masked ball going for £3.50 each - nautical doodles and a photo of a construction site like no other as workers wearing waistcoats and bowler hats build the Grosvenor Suite.
Here are some of the artefacts found and watch the video gallery above for photos of the items
Spooky note
On February 12, 1960, waiter Thomas Carmody, aged just 16 ½, slipped a note under the floorboards at The Grand. His chilling message, scrawled on the back of a restaurant menu, said: "I will come back from the dead to see you." Thomas would be 72 now. Is he still alive, or is he stalking The Grand's corridors in spirit form?
Doodles
Being in land-locked Birmingham obviously made this artist pine for the sea and distant climes. Nautical-themed doodles were found on the walls of the former manager's office.
Menu
It seems Birmingham was a foodie's heaven in the late 1800s as a typewritten menu offered "plaice a l'Orly", "Ox tails a la jardinière" and "gelee au maraschino".
Christmas at The Grand (above)
This flier promoting Christmas celebrations in 1973 includes a New Year's Eve ball promising "one of the most glamorous and popular events" in the Yuletide calendar. Tickets for this evening cost £6.75 including champagne but a deposit of £1 per person was required for all advanced bookings.
Resignation
On May 1, 1916, The Grand's manager resigned, giving two months' notice. His formal note was found in a safe. Off to war perhaps?
Coin
There was much excitement when a construction worker declared he had found an "ancient coin" on site. But as Hortons' chief executive Tony Green said of the 1948 half crown piece: "Ancient? I used to get one of those as pocket money!"
Communications
Long before emails, a hotel's internal communications included a bell system while money was moved around using pneumatic tubes.
Signage (below)
As new office tenants move into The Grand's refurbished Imperial and Whitehall Chambers, there is an old list of those occupiers who preceded them.
Tiles
A fireplace with its attractive tiled surround was salvaged during the refurbishment of the office suites at The Grand. It turns out the brilliantly coloured ceramics are coveted De Morgans, designed by William De Morgan, a key proponent of the Arts and Crafts movement in the late 19th and early 20th century.
Grosvenor Suite
The Grand was one of the first buildings to use steel girders to support its structure. A photo shows a glimpse of an original girder and workers wearing shirts and waistcoats - with not a hard hat or high-vis jacket in sight.
Piano
A piano was found in The Grand's Grosvenor Street and a ghostly pianist has been heard to tinkle its ivories from time to time.
Water Bottles
Hundreds of glass water bottles were found in The Grand's basement where the hotel boasts two freshwater wells. These wells are 238ft deep and still in good working order, making a great source of water for an on-site micro-brewery or gin distillery.
Branded crockery and chamber pot
There was no danger of forgetting where you were when dining at The Grand as the hotel's bespoke bone china Wedgwood crockery bore the Grand Hotel crest - as did its chamber pots. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/rare-finds-give-grand-glimpse-11818852 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f296b0bddcc545e811cbbcaa75f0e62bc40d9e3a14ce532ed8028cbe401fc9d7.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-31T10:47:25 | null | 2016-08-31T11:12:30 | West Ham are currently trying to thrash out a deal to take Micah Richards to the Olympic Stadium | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-ham-reportedly-end-micah-11822658.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11335975.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS90013555.jpg | en | null | West Ham are reportedly about to end Micah Richards' Aston Villa nightmare | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Micah Richards could be offered a route out of Aaton Villa on Transfer Deadline Day with West Ham United set to secure his services on loan.
The defender has been out of favour under Roberto Di Matteo with the club keen to get him off the wage bill before the window closes tonight.
And with offers for the former Manchester City man, who joined the club last summer and immediately took up the role as captain, few and far between, Richards seems to have been handed a lifeline.
The ex-England man has been linked with moves to Turkish clubs throughout the summer, while Premier League side Sunderland were also interested in him before Sam Allardyce left the North East to become the national team manager.
However, Slaven Bilic has obviously seen something in the 28-year-old and is looking to secure him on loan for the season.
Richards would plug the problem the Hammers currently have at right-back with Sam Byram the only recognised one at present. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-ham-reportedly-end-micah-11822658 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/413d280802d9b70a976eecc40876aca5bc9d1572c543d44bb677f77a7336a979.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-27T06:46:54 | null | 2016-08-27T07:00:00 | Brummie Dave Mould is the captain of Team Carbide in the BBC2 series | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Fbbcs-robot-wars-final-how-11793075.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11794587.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97862399.jpg | en | null | how Cadbury worker Dave is aiming to crush the competition | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | By day, Dave Mould’s robots help to make Cadbury chocolates.
But by night, he makes fighting robots in his garden shed which have taken him to the final of a TV competition.
Dave and his formidable creation Carbide are hoping to win BBC2’s Robot Wars on Sunday, August 28 after demolishing their rivals.
Watch Carbide destroy Behemoth
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Dave, from Bromsgrove, works at Cadbury in Bournville as a robotics engineer, making Roses and Heroes chocolates.
He has teamed up with his girlfriend Sheryl Prior and his co-designer Sam Smith, a Rolls-Royce aerospace engineer, to enter Robot Wars.
Dave and Sam work on Carbide
Dave and Sam combined their ideas to make Carbide after being given only two months to come up with a new robot for the series, revived after 12 years off our screens.
Dave, 27, says: “When Robot Wars finished, a lot of people who still had robots in their garages wanted to carry on fighting them, so they organised live events.
“I became UK champion at 17 with my robot Turbulence.
“I got to know Sam well as I fought against his robot Tiberius.
Team Carbide prepare to do battle
“When Robot Wars came back, they only gave us two months’ notice to built a robot. As it took me two years to build Turbulence, it really wasn’t feasible.
“So Sam and I decided to combine forces and design one together. We made parts individually, me in my shed and him in his garage in Derby, then we’d meet up once a week.
“We were still making it at 1am on the morning of the TV filming, then we had to drive to the studio in Glasgow.
Team Carbide with Sheryl Prior, Dave Mould and Sam Smith
“We were still putting stickers on it as presenter Dara O Briain came round to talk to us.
“So Carbide had never been properly tested or been in a fight and we weren’t sure what to expect.
“But its spinning blade has just demolished the competition.”
Watch out for the spinning blade on Carbide
Carbide’s winning feature is the 85cm long bar made from the kind of steel normally used as armour on military tanks and aerospace-grade aluminium.
At its maximum speed, the impact is 60 times that from a sniper bullet.
To get to the final, Carbide has been in five fights and won four.
“It took on Behemoth, which is a great robot. Its front end is made of 8mm thick titanium and Carbide’s blade just sliced straight through it,” says Dave, who grew up in Sutton Coldfield and went to Fairfax School and Sutton Coldfield College.
Robot Wars presenters Dara O Briain and Angela Scanlon with house robots Sir Killalot, Matilda and Shunt
“We all know each other from competing and we’re supportive of each other. There’s no sabotage.
“We help each other repair our robots. We were having a few issues with the blade and Team Terrahertz helped us put it back together so we could have the best fight – they actually beat us.
“Filming Robot Wars was great and viewers seemed pleased to have it back.
Sam Smith working on Carbide behind the scenes
“It’s trended on Twitter every week. When it’s on, even during the Olympics, if you typed in R it came up with Robot Wars first before Rio.”
Now Carbide will be tested in the finals, screened on Sunday, August 28 on BBC2 at 8pm.
Dave promises: “There are some really good fights. Carbide does a lot of damage.”
As for any practical application for robots, he adds: “I wouldn’t making one that cuts the lawn for me.
“Carbide would make a mess of the fence and scare the local cats.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/bbcs-robot-wars-final-how-11793075 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8d8f68fcb9f4f6bd1455602d21a2dbd9319714adb1b90275da4fdf2235c30250.json |
[
"Nigel Pearson"
] | 2016-08-30T08:47:03 | null | 2016-08-30T08:38:44 | The Surestop Brummies are looking to make it 13 wins on the spin when they host the Isle of Wight at Perry Barr tomorrow. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fbirmingham-brummies-need-keep-momentum-11816658.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11816653.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/King_Brit-Champ_G97P1642_JD.jpg | en | null | Birmingham Brummies need to keep momentum going against Isle of Wight | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham boss Graham Drury has stressed the importance of keeping the momentum going when they host the Isle of Wight at Perry Barr tomorrow.
The Surestop Brummies are looking to make it 13 wins on the spin as they wrap up their regular league home programme.
Despite their place in the end-of-season play-offs already being assured, Drury says it’s vital his riders keep their confidence levels high ahead of the ‘business end of the season’.
He said: “Having the Pairs and the trip to Buxton at the weekend rained off was frustrating, but that’s speedway and you have to get on with it.
“It’s crazy to think this is our last programmed home fixture before the nitty-gritty, all important end-of-season fixtures but we want to keep our winning streak going.
“We booked our place in the play-offs with a win at the Isle of Wight last week and now we want to beat them at home as well.
“September and October are the most important two months of the season and we want to go into our big meetings with as much confidence still behind us as possible. Next week’s Knockout Cup semi-final against Kent is a massive meeting, but we have to focus on the Isle of Wight meeting first and do a professional job once again.”
Former Birmingham captain Danny King will be in attendance at Perry Barr tomorrow as he makes a rare return to his former stamping ground.
“It will be great to see Danny again and I know our supporters are excited to catch up with him as well,” said Drury. “Danny will be bringing his new British Championship trophy along and he’ll be more than happy to have photos and sign autographs too.
“He’s going to be keeping an eye on our riders as well and his experience and knowledge will be there for our lads to use should they need it!” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/other-sport/birmingham-brummies-need-keep-momentum-11816658 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/cfedc0557ce412de565013b472f9c687b686e452229e77e427d53c7099895967.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-29T18:47:37 | null | 2016-08-29T17:52:01 | Watch Mat Kendrick give his verdict on the big Czech's display | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fheres-how-aston-villa-hat-11815990.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11815981.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98214191.jpg | en | null | Here's how Aston Villa hat-trick hero Libor Kozak played for the under-23s | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Video loading Click to play Tap to play The Live Event you are trying to watch is either unavailable or has not started Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
Libor Kozak played for Aston Villa's under-23s at Villa Park this afternoon.
Did he do much?
Well, he scored a hat-trick and completed 90 minutes.
It was his first taste of action since his hour-long cameo from the bench in the Championship draw at Derby County, when he failed to make much of an impact after replacing injured Rudy Gestede.
The Birmingham Mail were in B6 today to watch Kevin MacDonald's claret and blue youngsters beat Newcastle United 4-0.
And we paid close attention to Kozak, who is into the final year of his contract.
Will he have impressed Roberto Di Matteo? Or the cluster of scouts who descend on Villa Park for these fixtures.?
Watch the video at the top of this piece for football editor Mat Kendrick's Kozak scouting report. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/heres-how-aston-villa-hat-11815990 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/58c8dff0f3f6254eb548f3b4364427b5f79f8d82666e0c58ef04c6c35af7fea0.json |
[
"Matt Cannon"
] | 2016-08-27T16:46:57 | null | 2016-08-27T17:09:05 | Facebook and WhatsApp data sharing plan is being looked at by UK Information Commissioner | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fhow-stop-whatsapp-sharing-your-11808970.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11809172.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/How-to-stop-WhatsApp-sharing-your-Facebook-information.jpg | en | null | How to stop WhatsApp sharing your Facebook information | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Whatsapp and Facebook wil soon share information - unless you opt out
Messaging service WhatsApp could soon be sharing user's information with Facebook - but there is a way you can opt out.
Facebook purchased WhatsApp for $21.8 billion i(£1.7 billion) n 2014. The company now plans on getting some of it back.
The Silicon Valley giant plans hope to boost its targeted advertising revenues by sharing people's information between the two platforms.
WhatsApp say the change will "improve users Facebook ads."
The UK's data watchdog is looking into the move.
Users can prevent your information being shared between the two.
To opt out follow these simple steps:
1. Launch WhatsApp
2. Tap the arrow in the bottom left of the screen
3. Un-tick the box on the bottom right
The message reads: "Share my WhatsApp acount information with Facebook to improve my Facebook ads and product experiences.
WhatsApp revenge porn boyfriend posted explicit picture online
"Your chats and phone number will not be shared onto Facebook regardless of this setting."
Once you have de-selected the setting your information should not be shared.
How to download the Birmingham Mail app | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/how-stop-whatsapp-sharing-your-11808970 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/7a658d987a5a10c3e30bc0caf86804f60167a56c836efd7bde79d6276090d1b1.json |
[
"Luke Beardsworth"
] | 2016-08-30T10:50:27 | null | 2016-08-30T10:23:38 | Move follows successful launch of Pikachu plush | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Fshopping%2Fbuild-bear-workshop-launch-new-11817054.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11817116.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/eevee-teddy-2.jpg | en | null | Build-a-Bear Workshop to launch new Eevee teddy | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The new Eevee teddy from Build-a-Bear
Build-a-Bear Workshop will soon be offering this Eevee teddy for sale.
The 14-inch Eevee plush will be available in stores and online from September 1 in the UK.
Prices are only currently available for the US and the teddy will cost $28 or set you back $62 for a set with different outfits. This currently exchanges to £21.42 or £47.43.
The new Eevee teddy from Build-a-Bear
All purchases will come with an exclusive Pokemon Trading Card Game card.
Build-a-Bear also have Pikachu teddy that you can buy from the store.
The popularity of the online gaming app Pokemon Go will have done no harm to the toys.
How to hatch your eggs without doing any walking in Pokemon Go
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The game has been a phenomenon since launching in the UK - although it hasn't come without drawbacks.
A number of incidents relating to the game have been reported to police. They are currently investigating one involving the offer of sexual favours. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/shopping/build-bear-workshop-launch-new-11817054 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/24e658b814c7b53ee186868ea785fc3a6257d9dbdff697c6cec76f483a0c2518.json |
[
"Zoe Chamberlain"
] | 2016-08-31T08:47:24 | null | 2016-08-31T03:00:00 | There's still lots of free fun to be had before the kids go back to school | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffamily-kids-news%2Ffree-things-birmingham-kids-over-11627615.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article9906633.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/DBR_BEM_200815beach_01.jpg | en | null | Free things to do in Birmingham with the kids over the school holidays | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Costa del Solihull urban beach in Theatre Square at Touchwood shopping centre in Solihull
Visit a man-made beach, get crafty, try your hand at tennis or join a Zumba class, there are lots of free things to do right on your doorstep.
Check out the free comic workshop at Millennium Point and creative workshops at Cafe Opus plus lots of free football, archery and cricket sessions over all the city.
And bookworms should look out for all the free events happening as part of The Big Read.
Remember, always call ahead to double check timings and prices to avoid disappointment.
Free GetCrafty sessions at Café Opus
GetCrafty sessions are taking place at Café Opus every Tuesday from 2.30pm and Wednesday 10-12pm throughout the summer holidays. Activities include basket weaving, Sea Life stained glass effect decorations, farm animal pom poms, hand puppets and bug windmills.
Free to children of all ages.
GetCrafty sessions at Cafe Opus
Free before 3pm at Resorts World
To celebrate summer, Resorts World Birmingham will be offering guests exclusive deals, including free parking every day before 3pm until August 31.
Free kid’s meals are available every day before 3pm at The World Bar when an adult meal is purchased (download a voucher here at resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk/free
And, every Thursday, there’s free face painting and balloon art between 11am and 2pm plus fun characters to meet like Ben and Holly, PAW Patrol’s Chase and Marshall, The Gruffalo and Peppa Pig.
Peppa Pig!
Free family Fun at Lickey Hills Country Park
The ParkLives Family Fun sessions feature a mixture of badminton, cricket, archery and other games.
There are various dates and times you can attend.
It’s completely free but best to sign up via the ParkLives website before heading there.
Daniel Lynch Family fun afternoons with ParkLives
The BookBench Trail
Had a selfie on a BookBench yet? If not, then head into Birmingham this week to see how many you can find on the trail.
Created by the organisers of The Big Hoot’s Little Hoot, the BookBench Trail runs throughout the entire summer holiday, right up until September 13, and features more than 170 BookBenches shaped like open books that have been decorated by school children and young people.
The trail is free to do and a free trail and activities map showing the locations of the BookBench displays and highlighting what’s on at the venues will be available to pick up at various outlets. It will also be available to download from The Big Read
Watch this time-lapse video of how a stunning BookBench was created:
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Art Explorer Fridays at Ikon
Fridays are family-friendly Art Explorer Days at Ikon all through August.
Join the team outside the gallery in Oozells Square, Brindleyplace from 1 - 4pm on August 5, 19 and 26 for some fun, creative activities inspired by current exhibitions.
And it’s free, there’s no need to book and you can stay for as long as you like. Visit the Ikon website to find out more.
Art Explorer Friday at Ikon Gallery
Parkrun at Cannon Hill Park
Got a budding Mo Farah on your hands? Then, why not take up running as a family?
Parkrun takes place at Cannon Hill Park every Saturday at 9am and is a 5k timed run for the whole family to enjoy.
If you’re not keen but your kids are then why not take them to Junior Parkrun, a 2k timed run for four to 14 year olds, which takes place at 9am every Sunday at Cannon Hill Park.
It’s a great way of getting fit while feeling motivated by like-minded people, and you can always stop to enjoy a coffee in the cafe afterwards!
All Parkrun events are free. You simply have to sign up at the Parkrun website and take along your barcode on the day.
Costa Del Solihull
The beach has returned to Solihull and this time it has a feel of Copacabana!
There are Brazilian carnival costumes, samba music, dance and drumming workshops for all to enjoy and plenty more to get everyone in the party spirit.
The beach is at Touchwood Shopping Centre from Saturday, July 9, to Sunday, September 4 and features palm trees, golden sand, deck chairs and buckets and spade.
Entry is free and the opening times are 9.30am to 6pm from Mondays to Saturdays and 11am to 5pm Sundays.
The Big Friendly Read at Birmingham libraries
A Summer Reading Challenge is taking place in libraries across Birmingham throughout the entire summer holiday, with a special Roald Dahl theme.
Children aged 4-11 year olds are invited to sign up, pick up a collector's folder and collect six special Quentin Blake illustrated cards as they borrow and read any six library books over the summer.
There's a mini-challenge for younger brothers and sisters too.
Find out more at The Reading Agency website.
Graham Young Artist Ben Hancox's BookBench intepretation of Roald Dahl's The BFG
Free Tennis at Cannon Hill Park
All ages and abilities are welcome to this tennis session at Cannon Hill Park on Sunday, September 4 from 1pm to 3pm.
Equipment is provided so you don’t need your own racket.
Just sign up beforehand at the ParkLives website.
Free comic workshop at Millennium Point
Create your own comic book, enjoy live comic book street art, play superhero themed video games from Joypads, relax and read comic books at the pop-up comic book shop, and indulge in some street food on September 3 at Millennium Point.
There are 11 BookBenches to explore in atrium until September 13.
For more information visit www.millenniumpoint.org.uk
Gaming event for families at Millennium Point
Family Saturday at Ikon
Open to all ages (adults included), this afternoon of free creative activities on Saturday, September 3 is designed to engage, challenge and delight.
Families will be encouraged to make their own artwork after exploring the current exhibitions at Ikon Gallery, Oozells Square, Brindleyplace.
This is a free, drop in event so there’s no need to book.
Zumba fun in Cofton Park
Get the whole family dancing their way towards the end of the summer holidays.
This hour long session from 9.30 to 10.30am on Saturday, August 27 will teach you a bit of everything, from salsa and merengue to mambo, flamenco and cha-cha-cha!
All ages and abilities are welcome to the event at Cofton Park, Longbridge and, what’s more, it’s completely free!
Put your name down at the ParkLives website.
Bookcraft Fridays at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Design your own book cover and enter a competition in this weekly free workshop, which runs every Friday at 11am from July 29 to September 2.
And, for the under 7s, there are make your own Very Hungry Caterpillar sessions based on the beloved children’s book.
No need to book, just turn up to these sessions which are part of The Big Read project.
Crafts at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Birmingham Honey Show at Martineau Gardens
Discover the beauty of bees!
The Birmingham Honey Show is back for its sixth year, giving families the chance to learn about different bees, talk to beekeepers, check out hives and even meet a queen!
There will be competitions, and a chance to make candles from beeswax and buy locally produced honey direct from the beekeepers all in the settings of a beautiful organic community garden.
Organised by Birmingham and District Beekeepers Association, this event takes place from 10am to 4pm on Saturday September 3 and Sunday September 4.
Entry is free and there’s also an orchard, woodland, hot house and a children’s ‘shipwreck’ play area to explore. Find out more here
• To keep updated on family things to do, like our Brummie Mummies facebook page | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/family-kids-news/free-things-birmingham-kids-over-11627615 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/27739bf31a0de14dcfaa987054c26e498e24e1dab2e11cdf443a358399e3e4b2.json |
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