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[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T14:46:49 | null | 2016-08-26T14:37:24 | Aston Villa are said to be interested in the Anderlecht striker | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Faston-villa-club-reportedly-make-11805060.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11778105.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97610451.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa: Club reportedly make contact over Italian striker | 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 are reportedly weighing up a move for Anderlecht's Italian striker Stefano Okaka.
The striker, who began his career in his homeland with Italy, has played in England before for Fulham, but failed to make a lasting impression.
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The Daily Mail are reporting that the club will rival Norwich City for the forward.
Of course, Villa have already beaten the Canaries to one major swoop this summer with the signing of Ross McCormack.
Ross McCormack of Aston Villa
But the two clubs now appear to be ready to do battle again with the 27-year-old the prize for the winner.
Di Matteo may be turning to Okaka with frustrations growing having not managed to complete the deal for Hull City's Abel Hernandez yet, with Mike Phelan earlier confirming that a deal is unlikely.
Okaka is likely to be slightly cheaper than the other striking targets on Villa's list, also. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-club-reportedly-make-11805060 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/e763e7eef385dd1cce14c3c683200ea559e8ab850bc527a3f30627d10df534ad.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T12:49:04 | 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-looks-though-micah-11804489.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11335975.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS90013555.jpg | en | null | Transfer news: It looks as though Micah Richards is finally set to end his Aston Villa nightmare | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Micah Richards applauds the Aston Villa fans after the defeat at Arsenal
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-looks-though-micah-11804489 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/fe6b5e17d95934e678efc74b94c78257d59a9713b72172e084a1bf62da42b42d.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-28T12:46:54 | null | 2016-08-28T12:07:28 | Villa writer Gregg Evans was at Ashton Gate yesterday - here are his findings | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Faston-villa-analysis-qualities-questioned-11811241.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808988.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98075885.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa analysis: Qualities questioned; an unwanted run continues; time to gel | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Bristol City and Aston Villa players walk out for the Sky Bet Championship match at Ashton Gate
Gollini’s qualities questioned
Villa’s young stopper was again at fault for another crucial goal.
After failing to hold onto Lee Tomlin’s effort, Gollini parried with ball into Tammy Abraham’s path which allowed the on-loan Chelsea man an easy tap-in.
Boss Roberto Di Matteo backed his man after the game by insisting that the defence should have reacted better but the opinion from the Villa faithful was that the Italian was to blame.
Gregg's verdict
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The run goes on
This painful and seemingly never-ending winless run on the road is clearly getting to the Villa players.
We all want it to go away and writing about it every fortnight is just as depressing as having to witness it from the away end, believe me.
But, at present, there are no signs that suggest it will go away any time soon. Villa crumble under pressure and just can’t see out games.
At least they’ve ended the goalless run, though. Jack Grealish’s strike was the first on the road in the league for four months.
Aston Villa's Jack Grealish celebrates opening the scoring at Bristol City
Hit-and-miss Ayew
Why do we only ever see half a performance from the Ghanaian?
What a joy it was to watch him in such fine form in the first half. Playing in a central striking role as target man Rudy Gestede was out injured, Ayew wreaked havoc on the Bristol City backline in the opening period.
He twisted and turned his way into gaping holes at the back and forced Hordur Magnusson and Aden Flint into a number of fouls on his team-mates.
In the first half he sent a rasping drive just inches wide and he played in Leandro Bacuna who should have done better. Yet after the break he went missing again.
Villa need a full display from him because he’s so important this season.
Aston Villa's Jordan Ayew in action at Bristol City
Time to gel
Di Matteo named all of his available new signings in the starting line-up for this defeat which shows the faith he has in his new men.
Getting them to gel will take time, though. Mile Jedinak looked surprisingly out-of-sorts in the middle.
Of course he will only get better, this was his first game in a new team playing a new system so let’s not get too drawn on a disappointing second-half display.
Villa looked disjointed as a whole and that needs to change in times ahead.
Bristol City's Scott Golbourne and Aston Villa's Leandro Bacuna
A game of two halves
I hate that cliché so I’m mad at myself for mentioning it.
But this game really was a case of that. Bristol City were scared of Villa in the first half, according to their boss Lee Johnson.
After a pasting at half-time from the likeable and intellectual boss, his side turned the game on its head.
Not for the first time did Villa fail to show up after the break.
They need to address that issue because it’s happened too many times already this season. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-analysis-qualities-questioned-11811241 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/19f6ddd1bbbe71015563c1857665f079a36ad64e2cbf49b9502a4dc4dcfe733d.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-31T14:48:20 | null | 2016-08-31T15:23:40 | Angry Boro fans have hit out over Albert Adomah's move to Aston Villa | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fmiddlesbrough-fans-show-bitterness-after-11824817.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/article10113030.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/BoroWolvesCup.jpg | en | null | Middlesbrough fans show their bitterness after Albert Adomah joins Roberto Di Matteo's Aston Villa | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Middlesbrough fans have reacted angrily to Albert Adomah's transfer to Aston Villa with several of them taking a swipe at him on social media.
The Teesiders hid their frustration at losing one of their star performers from last season's Championship promotion campaign by blasting the winger on social media.
They claimed he has a bad attitude and one fans even suggested that he should have 'kept his paint brushes and rollers.'
That comment relates to Adomah's earlier career as a painter and decorator, a role which he combined with part-time football before he got his break in the game.
Bitter Boro
This past month will be the pinnacle of Albert Adomah's career. Hope he's kept his paint brushes and rollers #Boro #avfc — Mark Archer (@markarcher900) 31 August 2016
Not too sorry to see Albert Adomah go. Occasionally unplayable on the pitch but regularly unplayable due to his attitude off the pitch #Boro — Paul Edwards (@pjeuk) 31 August 2016
Anyone else glad to see the back of Adomah? Inconsistent, constantly moaning.. Great on his day but that's very very rare #boro #avfc — Jamie Madden (@jamiemadden1989) 31 August 2016
Dunno why villa fans are buzzing about adomah, can't cross, bone idle and greedy, gibbo laughing all the way to the bank #boro #avfc — Alex Royal (@Aroyal285) 31 August 2016
There were some Boro fans who wanted to wish the Ghanaian well. Adomah was a stand-out performer during his time at the Riverside and built up a decent rapport with fans which is evident in the tweets below.
A bit more friendly
I'll miss Albert Adomah playing for #Boro . Very easy for wingers to be the whipping boy as was Stuart Ripley during his time at the club. — Sir Benjamin Glass (@SirBenGlass) 31 August 2016 | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/middlesbrough-fans-show-bitterness-after-11824817 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/2f889001061c94727c4127778d47f9af1e8fc5c4e7f76c3d14360b13d6387a21.json |
[
"Joseph Chapman"
] | 2016-08-28T18:46:47 | null | 2016-08-28T18:08:34 | Albion boss Tony Pulis on the drastic need for new blood | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-need-reinforcements-continue-11812549.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811648.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98134886.jpg | en | null | West Brom need reinforcements to continue being kings of the West Midlands | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Brom need new players to maintain their position on top of the West Midlands tree.
That’s the view of Tony Pulis, who is eagerly hunting fresh personnel in the coming days.
It’s clear Albion will be busy; with only one permanent arrival this summer in Matty Phillips the squad is a thin one and Pulis is understandably keen to beef it up - but, he insists, with a quality and not quantity approach.
In truth, Albion need both.
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“We need new blood, we need to get some players in and hopefully over the next few days that’ll happen,” he said.
“The players as much as anybody else need to see a few coming in.
“Not just any players - players with quality.
“We’re the top team in the West Midlands. That’s what we want to be and stay.
“To do that, we need to get some players in.
“We need it everywhere through the pitch.
“We need more legs. We’re an old team, as I said last year and the year before most probably.
Alvaro Negredo of Middlesbrough challenges for the ball with Gareth McAuley of West Bromwich Albion
“I’m not having a go - if you speak to the players, they’re all the same. They’re all waiting for people to come in.
“Evans, Salomon and Fletch have been fantastic.”
In the new recruits’ absence, Pulis has had to call on the younger contingent of Albion’s squad.
Far from being overawed, Sam Field, who started the game against Middlesbrough, was one of the stand-out candidates on his full league debut.
Fellow youngster Jonathan Leko frustratingly was a substitute that himself had to come off through injury, while Kane Wilson was named on the bench also.
“Sam’s been smashing,” Pulis enthused.
West Bromwich Albion's Sam Field
“I’m disappointed about Leko coming on and having to come off. He’s a real talent.
“The three lads we’ve brought with us, (Brendan) Galloway’s done well today, he looks a good player.
“Kane Wilson’s an outstanding player as well - he’s only 16.
“The future’s bright, but what we’ve got to do is bring some players in.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-need-reinforcements-continue-11812549 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/92f0d59ed7649190745240cbcdcce067116bf150031bc1b5284cbd8ce80bc0a1.json |
[
"Agency Staff"
] | 2016-08-30T08:46:43 | null | 2016-08-30T07:49:06 | The latest news from around Briton and the world | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fuk-news%2Fmorning-news-headlines-fathers-tribute-11816583.json | http://i4.liverpoolecho.co.uk/incoming/article11816578.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98247665.jpg | en | null | Morning news headlines: Father's tribute after Briton who tried to save stabbed backpacker dies; Home Secretary to meet French Minister amid border control and jungle fears | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Undated handout photo issued via a YouCaring page set up to help support the family of Thomas Jackson, who has died after being critically injured as he tried to save a fellow backpacker as she was stabbed in a knife attack in Australia
FATHER'S TRIBUTE AFTER BRITON WHO TRIED TO SAVE STABBED BACKPACKER DIES
The father of a British traveller has paid tribute to his "darling" son after he died from injuries suffered while trying to defend a fellow backpacker in a knife attack at an Australian hostel.
Tom Jackson, 30, died in a north Queensland hospital on Tuesday and his father, Les, was quoted on a Youcaring fundraising page set up to help the family.
He wrote: "We are bereft. Our darling Tom has left us and the world is a poorer place. Thanks again to everyone for the love and support you have given us over the last few days, we will be forever grateful."
HOME SECRETARY TO MEET FRENCH MINISTER AMID BORDER CONTROL AND JUNGLE FEARS
The Home Secretary will travel to Paris to meet her French counterpart amid growing fears the French could axe British border controls in Calais and send the Jungle camp to Dover.
Amber Rudd is due to discuss security with French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve during the scheduled trip on Tuesday - her first official overseas engagement since taking up the post.
It comes after a growing number of prominent French politicians have warned that France might tear up the deal which allows British border checks to be carried out in Calais unless radical changes are made.
JEREMY CORBYN TO UNVEIL 'DIGITAL MANIFESTO' IN PITCH TO KEEP LABOUR LEADER'S JOB
Jeremy Corbyn will pledge to draw up a digital bill of rights as part of a new manifesto to promote and harness the internet as he continues to tour the country in his Labour leadership campaign.
Delivering a speech in London's East End tech capital, he will promise to "democratise the internet" and use it to create "the most visible general election campaign ever".
And he will highlight technical innovations made by his team, including the Canvassing App which was inspired by the Bernie Sanders campaign in the United States, as the way forward for political campaigning.
EVERY REGION BETTER OFF THAN LAST YEAR, RESEARCH FINDS
Every region in Britain is more prosperous than last year, with some areas emerging as challengers to London and the South East for affluence, a new report shows.
Wealth, spending or earnings rose across the country in the 12 months to April 2016, while jobless rates dropped, according Barclays' Prosperity Map.
The lender's report calculates regional scores based on an array of factors such as gross domestic product (GDP), house prices, charitable giving, working hours and average house prices.
WILLY WONKA ACTOR GENE WILDER DIES AGED 83
Willy Wonka star and "comic genius" Gene Wilder has died aged 83.
The Hollywood actor, known for roles in comedy classics such as Young Frankenstein and Blazing Saddles, has been hailed as one of the "great talents" of his generation.
Wilder's nephew said he died at his home in Stamford, Connecticut, having suffered from Alzheimer's disease, the Associated Press reported.
FAILURE TO DELIVER ON EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS PLEDGES AFTER BREXIT WOULD BE 'BETRAYAL'
British workers could lose many of their employment rights after Brexit unless the Government draws up new laws to protect them, a senior Labour MP has warned.
Prominent Brexiteers rubbished claims made during the referendum campaign that leaving the EU would result in a bonfire of workers' rights.
But former shadow business secretary Chuka Umunna has commissioned research by the House of Commons Library highlighting the EU laws that enshrine employment rights.
MOTHER'S DELIGHT AS CONJOINED TWIN DAUGHTERS PREPARE TO START SCHOOL
Conjoined twins who had a slim chance of survival are now preparing to go to school for the first time.
Rosie and Ruby Formosa, who were born joined at the abdomen and shared part of the intestine, needed an emergency operation to separate them when they were born in 2012.
Their parents, Angela and Daniel Formosa, were told the girls had a low chance of survival when medics discovered they were conjoined.
VAPING COULD POSE LONG-TERM DANGER TO THE HEART, CARDIOLOGIST WARNS
Vaping from electronic cigarettes could be as bad for the heart as smoking the real thing, scientists have warned.
A study found that a typical vaping session caused similar damage to the main artery in the heart as that suffered by those who smoked cigarettes.
The findings appear to fly in the face of advice from Public Health England (PHE), which last year said vaping is 95% less harmful than tobacco and called for GPs to be able to prescribe e-cigarettes on the NHS to help people quit smoking.
BRAZIL'S PRESIDENT PROCLAIMS INNOCENCE AT IMPEACHMENT TRIAL
On what could be her last day as Brazil's president, Dilma Rousseff mounted a forceful defence of her time leading Latin America's most populous nation.
She warned senators that ousting her would hurt a young democracy while defiantly promising to go down fighting in what many see as a losing battle.
Ms Rousseff, who has been suspended since May, delivered a 30-minute address on Monday at her impeachment trial in the Senate, and was then questioned by senators for more than 14 hours.
TAYLOR SWIFT REPORTS FOR JURY DUTY BUT IS ALLOWED TO AVOID RAPE CASE
Taylor Swift reported for jury service in the US but her request to be allowed to avoid an aggravated rape and kidnapping case was accepted.
A judge dismissed the pop star as a potential juror, Davidson County District Attorney General's Office spokesman Ken Whitehouse said.
He said: "She asked to be left off out of concern for an upcoming trial in Denver where she was - she used the term 'groped' - by a fan at a meet-and-greet." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/morning-news-headlines-fathers-tribute-11816583 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/519bed619bd7a997808fdce7d02ddbeb5938a0985d18897dabb78df749d7d2c6.json |
[
"Brian Halford"
] | 2016-08-31T08:49:04 | null | 2016-08-31T09:07:09 | Jeetan Patel hailed Warwickshire's excellent all-round team performance against Somerset. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fcricket%2Fjeetan-patel-hails-team-effort-11821836.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11821829.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Warwickshire-v-Somerset-Royal-London-One-Day-Cup.jpg | en | null | Jeetan Patel hails team effort as Warwickshire Bears book final spot | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Warwickshire bowler Jeetan Patel celebrates after dismissing Somerset batsman Davies during the Royal London One-Day Cup semi final between Warwickshire and Somerset.
Jeetan Patel reflected on the excellent all-round team performance by Warwickshire to overcome Somerset in the Royal London Cup semi-final and admitted: “I don’t think you could ask for more.”
The Bears booked a Lord’s final against Surrey on September 17 after finally subduing a talented and powerful Somerset side by eight runs.
The westcountrymen, chasing a hefty 284, kept fighting right to the end, with even last pair Tim Groenewald and Max Waller adding 42 before they were finally sunk by a brilliant last over of yorkers from Olly Hannon-Dalby.
Patel took the player-of-the-match award for his five for 43, including four quickfire wickets in the 30th, 32nd and 34th overs to eviscerate Somerset’s dangerous middle order.
Hit for a huge six by Peter Trego, the Kiwi responded by dismissing the batsman two balls later and quickly adding three more wickets.
Yet again, Patel was pivotal to a big Bears win – but he was quick to highlight the resounding team effort which overcame one of the best limited-overs sides in the country.
“The way the guys batted to put Somerset under pressure, then the way all the guys bowled and fielded, I don’t think you could ask for more,” he said.
“The bowlers kept taking wickets throughout the whole innings. Somerset are real fighters and we knew they would keep coming right to the end.
“Waller can hold a bat very well and Grunners (Groenewald) whacks it, so we just had to keep going hard at them for as long as they came hard at us, and we did that.
“Olly bowled brilliantly and really deserved that. He’s a great death bowler.
“The way Chris Wright bowled too was superb and Rikki Clarke at the top and Teeqy and Josh did their bit – it was just a fantastic effort all-round.”
The Bears fans in the big Bank Holiday crowd were getting a little nervous when Trego pummelled Patel into the Hollies Stand to take the score to 145 for three. But two minutes later, he was on his way back to the pavilion and Patel on his way to adding a first limited-overs five-for to his nine four-fors.
“It was a good hit from Trego,” he said. “Belly said to me ‘how did he get that?’ but that’s what limited-overs cricket is all about.
“You get hit for six sometimes but it’s a matter of how you come back from that.
“As a team we really delivered and it was a great day for us with great support from the fans, which we really appreciate.
“After the disappointment of missing out on Twenty20 Finals Day, and missing some opportunities in the championship, to have a chance to win a trophy at Lord’s in the 50-over comp is just fantastic.
“Now it all comes down to a one-off game against Surrey and they are a good side but as long as we keep putting in what we put in, we have got a great chance.”
* Tickets are available from Lord’s, priced from £30 to £50 for adults and £5 for juniors, on 020 7432 1000 or at https://tickets.lords.org | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/cricket/jeetan-patel-hails-team-effort-11821836 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8b8e0bc87add0018e77dda1c9a3bf4c76ee6fa71da0c0187b15ffd9901960921.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-31T12:51:11 | null | 2016-08-31T13:06:36 | Aston Villa have signed Middlesbrough's Albert Adomah | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Faston-villa-complete-signing-middlesbrough-11823594.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11265643.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS88603149.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa complete the signing of Middlesbrough winger Albert Adomah | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Dr Tony Xia has confirmed that Aston Villa have recruited Middlesbrough winger Albert Adomah.
The link with the winger emerged over the weekend and the owner have now confirmed that he has signed for them.
Adomah starred for Boro during their Championship promotion campaign and fits the bill for the type of player Villa have been targeted this summer.
All of their players have prior Championship experience apart from goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini, with most of them also having Premier League games under their belt.
The winger will provide competition for Leandro Bacuna and Jack Grealish, while his arrival will undoubtedly raise suspicions over where Jordan Ayew will end the day with Hull City interested in the forward.
Adomah and Ayew play together for Ghana and Robert Di Matteo will be hoping that they can avoid the latter's sale and strike up a partnership between the two. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-complete-signing-middlesbrough-11823594 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/de02aebc4fca01305470c30f1b41c755f404726f9ebf62309af1512da4c5aec0.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-26T12:50:37 | null | 2016-08-26T11:58:44 | The centre-half is expected to leave before the transfer window closes, but where will he go? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Faston-villa-transfer-news-lescott-11803751.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11271987.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS88662546.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa transfer news: Lescott locked in negotiations | 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
AEK Athens are in advanced talks with Joleon Lescott as they try to persuade the Aston Villa defender to move to Greece.
The 34-year-old is currently holding negotiations with the Superleague side after he was told he had no future in the Midlands.
Lescott almost moved to Glasgow Rangers last week but decided against the switch for family reasons.
Previous interest at LA Galaxy has also died but the ex-England international does have a number of other options to consider.
Moving to Athens would take a big sacrifice for Lescott who has spent his whole career in the UK.
After swapping Manchester City for the Midlands in 2014, his family remained in their Cheshire home as the centre-half commuted down to Albion and then from last season, Villa.
His move to Rangers hit a snag when he decided against moving his wife and young daughters up to Scotland, so clearly he would need their blessing were he to agree on such a move to the Greek capital.
He’s expected to make up his mind in the next 48 hours but AEK are hoping for a decision before the weekend. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-lescott-11803751 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/429f3871096d4f2127b8f88cf9bc7d81fed0f82121781bbdaa9be31b1a1a30b4.json |
[
"Ben Hurst"
] | 2016-08-27T16:46:47 | null | 2016-08-27T17:32:14 | Video posted online shows gang laughing at the law, pulling stunts and driving dangerously | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fwatch-brazen-bikers-deliberately-shut-11806144.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11805996.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/bikerscollage.jpg | en | null | Watch: Brazen bikers deliberately 'shut down' Birmingham city centre | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Footage has emerged of riders swamping Birmingham city centre - intimidating motorists, pulling stunts and driving on the wrong side of the road.
Masked scrambler bikers go on the rampage through the city, ending up in the centre.
Calling themselves the Reckless Ryders, some of the group are even wearing branded sweatshirts.
Around 40 scrambler bikes and quads took part in the lawbreaking, which they have now posted online titled: “Reckless Ryders shut down Birmingham”.
Bikers are on film standing on their seats doing wheelies, recklessly on the wrong side of the road, and constantly doing stunts.
At one point the footage shows the aftermath of a crash, with a biker picking up his scrambler - a huge line of cars waits as the riders have blocked the road.
All of the people on the bikes are masked, none are displaying number plates and some don’t even wear helmets.
It is believed that the incident was part of a ‘take back the streets’ campaign - a push by militant scrambler riders to be allowed to do whatever they want on the city’s roads.
Branded sweatshirt worn by Reckless Bykers
The footage is thought to be from a notorious incident in July, when police were called by dozens of frightened motorists.
At the time one motorist told the Mail: ““It was very intimidating. Some of the women alone in their cars looked really scared.
“It was clear these bikers were purposely trying to hold up the traffic and just generally trying to intimidate the other road users.
“They were pulling wheelies in the middle of the road, driving across the front of other cars and attempting to lead a four wheel drive buggy.
“They were trying to squeeze this buggy through the traffic. It was chaos.
Riders pull stunts in Birmingham
“Not one bike had a registration plate visible.”
Birmingham has been hit by a string of incidents involving scrambler bikers laughing at the law. Video has emerged of them engaging in rampages through residential city streets.
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police said: “A robust policing response was put in place after reports that a small minority of bikers were intent on causing problems on West Midlands roads on Sunday (10 July).
Quad biker pulls wheelie in Birmingham street
“Several calls were received about dangerous driving and officers seized a motorbike, two quad bikes and a kit car.
“No arrests were made, but there were several traffic violations. Officers are now reviewing footage and trawling CCTV to identify offenders and bring them to justice.
“Anti-social driving is extremely dangerous and anyone found to be committing offences can expect to be arrested.
Have you taken any amazing videos? Please send them to ben.hurst@trinitymirror.com | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/watch-brazen-bikers-deliberately-shut-11806144 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/bba33af37a043f2218a527029a6c18bdbe071fec5ac946465c1535fbda325267.json |
[
"David Bentley"
] | 2016-08-26T18:46:08 | null | 2016-08-26T18:40:38 | Make the most of the August Bank Holiday with our essential guide to things to do and places to go | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Fwhats-on-news%2Faugust-bank-holiday-2016-birmingham-11801783.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11806994.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/kenilworth-castle.jpg | en | null | August Bank Holiday 2016 in Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A knight prepares to defend Kenilworth Castle during a re-enactment of the Siege of Kenilworth
It's the last Bank Holiday until Christmas so, if you have the time off, make the most of it.
August Bank Holiday 2016 is from August 26 to 29.
And there's plenty to do over the three-day weekend.
To help you get the best out of the break before going back to work on Tuesday, we've put together this guide with everything you need to know.
August Bank Holiday weather forecast
This is always the big question when it comes to bank holidays, because British weather seems so unpredictable. And with summer being such a washout, it's left us wondering even more what will be in store.
So it does look like we will get some rain over the long weekend. But does it always rain on bank holidays?
More worryingly, a cloud of pollution is expected to be blown over from continental Europe - and this could cause problems for people with respiratory problems.
Things to do over the bank holiday weekend
Birmingham and the Midlands have plenty going on over the three-day weekend.
There's a community festival with street food and dragon boat racing at Edgbaston Reservoir, and the Crayola bus is calling at Toys R Us so kids can climb aboard for drawing and games.
Take a look at some of the best options:
What about FREE things to do?
Yes, there are loads. Going out with friends and family doesn't have to cost a fortune.
Despite Birmingham being named as the most expensive city for families outside London, according to TripAdvisor, there are loads of things to do over the holiday weekend that don't cost a penny.
There are free things to do in and around Birmingham
And there are a number of free attractions to visit within an hour's drive of the city.
Nearest beaches
If the weather looks good and the roads aren't too congested, then a day trip to the seaside is worth considering.
But where are the nearest and best beaches? We've got that sorted for you.
Man-made beaches
You don't need to go to the coast to enjoy fun on the beach.
The beach has been brought right here to Birmingham. Pop along to the pop-up beach at Fort Shopping Park, try the Costa Del Solihull, or one of the other attractions running over the holidays.
Sales at the shops
If retail therapy is your idea of bank holiday bliss, then there's some sales on in Birmingham this weekend that might be worth investigating. Take a look at what's on offer:
Supermarket opening times
If you are home at the weekend and have unexpected guests or visitors - or an unexpected emergency such as your phone charger dying on you - then you will need to dash to the supermarket.
But the hours are different over the bank holiday so don't get caught out.
We've put together a guide to supermarket opening times to help if you need to pop to the shops for essentials.
Country pubs
Sometimes a relaxing pint or two and a meal at a country pub, away from the bustle of the city and the congestion of motorways, is the most hassle-free way to enjoy a weekend or bank holiday.
Here's our pick of the best country pubs in the area.
Summer walks
Try one of these strolls in the fresh air and (hopefully) sunshine for another relaxing way to spend the bank holiday weekend.
We have loads of great walks in and around the city.
Historic castles
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Another option for a day out is to visit one of the region's castles. Steeped in history and mystery, they make great places to go.
Some have special events on too. Kenilworth is marking the 750th anniversary of the Siege of Kenilworth with a weekend of events and activities - including a re-enactment of the historic siege at Kenilworth Castle, from 11am to 5pm on August 28 and 29.
National Trust properties
The National Trust looks after a number of historic sites and beauty spots in and around Birmingham. Many have tea-rooms and cafes where you can sit down for a cuppa and a cake after looking round.
Here's a look at those nearest to Birmingham.
See some dinosaurs
Kids love dinosaurs - and many adults are fascinated by them, too. Luckily there are plenty of places where you can still encounter these prehistoric monsters in and around Birmingham.
At the recently reopened Lapworth Museum of Geology, you can meet Roary the allosaurus and take a look at the fossils of creatures such as the Coseley Spider, Dudley Bug, velociraptor and sabre-tooth tiger.
Things to do when it's raining
Rain doesn't have to stop play. You needn't huddle in the living room when the weather is miserable. There are many indoor things to do in and around Birmingham. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/august-bank-holiday-2016-birmingham-11801783 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4a0f27ebf4a22d122275ddaac59217e9b87898988494232c3a67c6e3956a1d53.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-31T14:47:49 | null | 2016-08-31T14:31:24 | The extras include a school groundsman and local government officer | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ftheatre-news%2Fhow-24-midlanders-became-spear-11824102.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11824296.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/king-lear-production-photos.jpg | en | null | How 24 Midlanders became spear carriers on the Royal Shakespeare Company stage | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | What do a school groundsman, a local government officer and a drama teacher have in common?
They are all appearing on stage in the current Royal Shakespeare Company production of King Lear in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Antony Sher is in the title role but playing his knights, soldiers and vagrants are 24 extras from across the Midlands.
Watch Shakespeare performed in LEGO
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It has long been a rite of passage for up and coming actors to start their careers in lowly roles known as “spear carriers” at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre – that’s how the likes of Dame Diana Rigg began.
But now ordinary folk are getting the chance to tread the same boards.
They include Thomas Stafford from Solihull, who works as a school groundsman.
Tom Stafford
He says: “I wanted to be a part of King Lear because I’ve been to the RSC many times and have always been impressed by the standard and quality of every performance, and the shows they put on are incredibly original and unique.
“Having the opportunity to work with professional actors and see those actors perform in this renowned theatre is a privilege.”
George Davis-Riley
George Davis-Riley is a local government officer from Birmingham, who says: “I have always challenged myself and promised to embrace any opportunity that comes along, and the whole concept of this is a challenge.”
Charlie Woollhead is a drama teacher from Bromsgrove, who explains: “I worked briefly as an actor and am now a drama teacher.
Charlie Woollhead
“The dream of being on stage at the RSC started from a very young age. I came to watch Peer Gynt with my dad at the age of 11 and fell in love with the place.
“I feel honoured and privileged to be part of something that I have aspired to be for two decades.”
The RSC put out a call in June asking for local people to get involved in King Lear.
Of the 140 who applied, 24 were chosen to tread the world famous stage, appearing in alternate performances in two groups of 12.
Others taking part include a rowing coach from Stratford and a warehouse logistics officer from Atherstone, plus a Royal Mail worker from Kenilworth.
Antony Sher as King Lear and David Troughton as the Earl of Gloucester at the RSC
The RSC’s artistic director and director of King Lear, Greg Doran, said: “Lear often refers to his ‘100 knights’ but rarely do we get to see their full riotous presence on stage.
“We wanted the audience to experience what his daughter Goneril has to go through when entertaining his ‘insolent retinue’ and maybe understand why she would want to cast him and his people out into the storm.
“It felt like a wonderful opportunity to engage with the local community, to bring to life these ‘debauched and bold’ knights.
“It is going to be very exciting to watch our supporting cast of 24 Midlanders bring a new energy and life to one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated plays.”
King Lear runs in repertoire at the RST until October 15. It will be broadcast live in cinemas on October 12. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/theatre-news/how-24-midlanders-became-spear-11824102 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/60b65e9453c8c04de806cd6910cbd33ca5c4c651df4b35cfa09381c99d745d3c.json |
[
"Zoe Chamberlain"
] | 2016-08-31T10:47:45 | null | 2016-08-31T10:11:09 | “Shocking” increase of discrimination against pregnant women and new mums over past 10 years, according to report | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fmps-call-urgent-action-protect-11822114.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11822013.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/CS83006714.jpg | en | null | MPs call for urgent action to protect Birmingham mums at work | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Urgent calls are being made for pregnant women and new mums to be given greater protection at work – after research revealed a “shocking” increase in discrimination over the last decade, according to a parliamentary report.
Statistics show the number of expectant and new mums forced to leave their job because of concerns about the safety of their child or pregnancy discrimination has doubled over the past 10 years to 54,000.
And more than one in 10 reported being dismissed, singled out for compulsory redundancy or forced out of their job by poor treatment, according to research carried out by the former Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) and the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
MPs are suggesting a German-style system which would ban employers from making women redundant during and after pregnancy except in specific exceptional circumstances.
The House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee also called for a “substantial” cut in the £1,200 fee for women taking a pregnancy-related discrimination case to an employment tribunal.
Casual, agency and zero-hours workers should also have the right to paid time off for antenatal appointments, they said.
The cross-party Committee urged ministers to publish an “ambitious, detailed plan” within two years to improve the working rights of pregnant women and new mothers, warning that without change more female workers will be forced out of their jobs.
Have you been unfairly treated at work as a pregnant woman or new mum? Please share your story in the comments below
Committee chairwoman Maria Miller said: “The arrival of a new baby puts family finances under extreme pressure yet, despite this, thousands of expectant and new mothers have no choice but to leave their work because of concerns about the safety of their child or pregnancy discrimination. Shockingly this figure has almost doubled in the last decade, now standing at 54,000.
“There are now record numbers of women in work in the UK. The economy will suffer unless employers modernise their workplace practices to ensure effective support and protection for expectant and new mums.
“The Government’s approach has lacked urgency and bite. It needs to set out a detailed plan outlining the specific actions it will take to tackle this unacceptable level of discrimination.
“This work must be underpinned by concrete targets and changes to laws and protections to increase compliance by employers to improve women’s lives.”
In Germany, a dismissal ban prevents redundancies for pregnant employees except in extremely rare exceptional cases, such as gross misconduct by the worker or the employer getting into severe financial difficulties resulting in multiple job losses.
As well as calling for a similar law in the UK, the Committee said the three-month limit on taking pregnancy and maternity discrimination cases to an employment tribunal should be doubled to six months.
Former Liberal Democrat equalities minister Jo Swinson, now chair of the charity Maternity Action, said the Government has no “coherent strategy” to reduce “alarmingly high rates of pregnancy discrimination at work”.
She added: “The rates of pregnancy discrimination have sky-rocketed in recent years, and will continue to rise if we don’t take action now.
“The Women and Equalities Committee recommendations cover the key interventions which Government needs to pursue to ensure women’s rights are respected.”
• Have you been unfairly treated at work as a pregnant woman or new mum? Please share your story in the comments below. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/mps-call-urgent-action-protect-11822114 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/84160d78c6b9b3016af126bda43d00bdb8ef2da7c696953e80c4e3a2ca9c679f.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-28T14:46:25 | null | 2016-08-28T14:36:02 | BrewDog and The Lord Clifden are some of the pubs requiring improvement in their hygiene standards but what do customers think of these places? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fwhat-customers-said-poorly-rated-11811657.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11811768.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/pubs.jpg | en | null | What customers said about poorly-rated hygiene pubs in Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Several high profile Birmingham pubs have been given poor food hygiene ratings and told to improve.
They include Brewdog in John Bright Street and The Village Inn on Alcester Road, both given a ZERO rating, the lowest possible score, and told to make “urgent improvements” according to inspections published on the Food Standards Agency website (correct on August 25 2016).
Others like The Lord Clifden and Old Moseley Arms have been given a one rating, meaning “major improvement necessary” while two-rating pubs like The Victoria suggests “improvement necessary”.
The rating is out of five and three is classed as “generally satisfactory”.
But what do customers say about these places? Here’s how they’re rating on TripAdvisor and what people are saying about them.
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Zero hygiene rating
BrewDog
81-87 John Bright Street B1 1BL
This is a very popular bar, rated second out of 119 nightlife venues in Birmingham on TripAdvisor and with a Certificate of Excellence. Of 194 reviews, 107 are excellent and 61 very good, giving an average of 4.5 out of 5.
One happy customer wrote: “For simply how happy this makes my husband I’ll give it five stars! But also wonderful selection of beers for us all to try. Good atmosphere and very knowledgeable staff.”
There are only three ‘Terrible’ reviews, one of which said: “Food took over half an hour and they brought a hot dog when we ordered a veggie melt. Not impressed.”
The Village Inn
179 Alcester Road Moseley B13 8JR
The Village Inn in Moseley
This pub, extensively refurbished in 2013, has 177 reviews of which 46 are excellent and 57 are very good.
Reviews of the food are mixed but most people seem to agree on the modern and stylish interior, described by one customer as “beautiful, very clean and well lit”.
One unhappy customer complained about the “very poor service” and unfriendly staff.
One hygiene rating
Actress & Bishop
36 Ludgate Hill Birmingham B3 1EH
The pub stressed it does not currently serve food and underwent an extensive refurbishment earlier this year after it was inspected in January 2015.
It has just two reviews on TripAdvisor, both of them three stars and ‘average’.
The Lord Clifden
34 Great Hampton Street Birmingham B18 6AA
Manager Liam Duncan said: “We were extremely unhappy with the rating. The inspection came at our busiest weekend of the year on a Bank Holiday. We were doing a deep clean at the time of the visit.
“Unfortunately they couldn’t give us a new score for at least three months. I’m extremely happy with the standards of the pub.
“If it were to be re-inspected today we are confident it would be given a full five rating.”
The bar has a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, with 156 of its 268 reviews rating it excellent and 77 as very good, and only five as terrible.
The beer garden is a highlight, as is the extensive menu and service.
The Flapper & Firkin
Kingston Row Birmingham B1 2NU
This bar has only seven reviews but four are excellent and three very good.
One customer said: “Canalside pub is one of Brum’s best kept secrets. Great beers on tap and live music five mins walk from Brindleyplace without the office crowd and the tourists.”
The Jekyll & Hyde
28 Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6BJ
Director of the Bitters ‘N’ Twisted group Matt Scriven said: “Both The Jekyll & Hyde and The Victoria were reviewed in March 2015 and a number of areas of improvement were identified by the environmental health officer at each visit.
“These were immediately acted upon, much of which related to the accuracy of the paperwork being maintained by the relevant head chefs at the time. It is probably no coincidence that those particular head chefs have not been employed by the businesses for some time now.
“The Jekyll & Hyde received a revisit a month ago and the verbal feedback was very positive and we therefore await details of the updated score for that particular venue.”
The pub has a TripAdvisor score of four and a Certificate of Excellence, with 177 excellent and 111 very good reviews out of 380.
Many customers mention the chilled atmosphere, quirky decor and great selection of drinks, especially gin, although some mention the prices are high.
The Old Moseley Arms
53 Tindal Street Birmingham B12 9QU
This backstreet pub in Balsall Heath was the winner of CAMRA’s Birmingham Pub of the Year for two years running, in 2014 and 2015, and it came second this year.
Its fans love its traditional atmosphere, range of beer and authentic curries from a tandoori oven.
It has a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. Of 39 reviews, 26 are excellent and nine are very good, with only one terrible review from a customer complaining about the “aggressive clientele”.
Walkabout
266-271 Broad Street Birmingham B1 2DS
This large Australian bar has just 16 excellent reviews out of 121 and 20 terrible ones.
Fans like to go there to watch sports and praise the drink and food deals, though there are complaints about the service.
Two hygiene rating
The Victoria
48 John Bright Street Birmingham B1 1BN
See Matt Scriven’s remarks above for The Jekyll & Hyde. He adds: “We assume The Victoria will be revisited in the foreseeable future and again expect a significant improvement in the score this time around.”
The pub, next door to the new Alexandra Theatre, has a Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor and 58 excellent reviews out of 120.
Fans like its quirky decor, atmosphere and selection of drinks.
One customer, however, said: “The place has lost its character! It wasn’t the attractive venue it used to be and I’ll not be returning.”
Mooch Bar
260 Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2HF
Of the 102 reviews on TripAdvisor, 35 are excellent and 17 are very good, while 30 are ‘terrible’. It has an average rating of 3.5.
While most customers praise its value for money and two-for-one drink deals, several reviewers mention rude door staff and food in need of improvement.
The Prince of Wales
84-85 Cambridge Street Birmingham B1 2NP
This pub is next door to the Barclaycard Arena and many customers pop in before or after a gig.
Of the 22 reviews, four are excellent and nine are very good but five are terrible.
Reviews range from “A proper old Brummie pub” to complaining about the “bored, rude, lazy and ignorant barmaid”.
The Woodman
New Canal Street Birmingham B5 5LG
The Woodman opposite City University has a Certificate of Excellence and 25 excellent reviews out of 53, with only four terrible reviews.
One customer described its “delicious, beautifully kept real ale” and another how it’s a “beautiful restored Victorian pub with great food”. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/what-customers-said-poorly-rated-11811657 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8a3da7b3a34da16b568c8918777f5c73c723a699c9db4138b08f8c73169e4ee6.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-27T18:47:49 | null | 2016-08-27T19:11:46 | Lee Johnson left Jonathan Kodjia out of Bristol City's squad as they beat Aston Villa | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fnumber-bids-been-received-west-11809959.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article10658644.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS79400705.jpg | en | null | A number of bids have been received for West Brom target, says boss | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Bristol City have received multiple bids for Albion target Jonathan Kodjia this summer, boss Lee Johnson has confirmed.
The Baggies are keen on the 27-year-old forward and are checking him out alongside a number of other targets.
Aston Villa are also thought to have bid for Kodjia before landing Ross McCormack but no offer is yet to meet City’s valuation.
Bristol City's Jonathan Kodjia is challenged by West Bromwich Albion's Claudio Yacob
After leaving the hitman out of the squad to that beat Villa 3-1 today, Johnson said: “We have received numerous bids over the summer and it was totally my decision to leave him out.
“There has been a lot of speculation about Jonathan. I’ve been there before when bids have come in for players and it can be an emotional time.
“At this moment in time, nothing has matched our valuation. It will take a lot of money to get one of our players out of this club and we are calling the shots.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/number-bids-been-received-west-11809959 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b0945742f53a4187486afab92091593c585d2c67178bf6ea6c5035b10c425da7.json |
[
"Brian Dick"
] | 2016-08-27T18:47:39 | null | 2016-08-27T18:25:02 | Blues writer Brian Dick's findings from St Andrew's as Blues cruised past the Canaries | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fbirmingham-city-analysis-jack-trades-11809638.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11809442.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98083730.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City analysis: A jack of all trades, a happy knack and an offensive defence | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham City exorcised the ghost of last Saturday with a confidence-restoring hammering of well-backed Norwich City.
Clayton Donaldson’s first two goals of the season - and David Davis’ second sent everyone home happy.
Here’s what we learned.
1. From famine to feast
We saw the worst of Blues against Wolves last weekend. They were without rhythm and by the end lacking in organisation. It was the stuff of nightmares.
But today we saw the best of Blues. They recorded their biggest win since January, kept a first clean sheet since opening day and took their chances clinically.
The feeling leaving the stadium could not have been more different.
From viewing every game as a potential banana-skin, every future fixture feels like an opportunity.
The reality, of course, is in the middle but football is a sport that thrives on extremes.
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson celebrates after scoring his second goal of the game to make it 3-0
2. Blues do have a penalty taker
Anyone who had been at Wigan might have shuddered at the sight of Clayton Donaldson lining up a penalty.
His spot-kick at the DW had been as poor as any witnessed in recent seasons and regular taker Paul Caddis’ absence was lamented all the more.
Yet Donaldson’s strength is his mental fortitude and there was no sign of the jitters as - goalless so far this season, he stepped up in front of the Tilton.
His finish was utterly nerveless, he sent Northern Ireland’s Euro 2016 hero Michael McGovern the wrong way.
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson scores from a penalty to make it 2-0
3. A jack of all trades
David Davis, often maligned for his passing, was put on to the right of midfield to snuff out Robbie Brady’s threat down the Norwich left.
He didn’t just do that, he revealed Brady’s defensive shortcomings too. It was a superb all-round display from a man who is bang in form.
Nothing underlined his versatility more than his goal.
Davis was in the perfect position to latch on to Jacques Maghoma’s cross, backing up from the opposite wing - something Birmingham’s more recognised wingers so rarely do.
David Davis celebrates after scoring to make it 1-0
4. Offensive defence
It’s very manager-speak but defence is usually the best form of offence.
Blues utterly stifled Norwich by throwing a blanket over midfield.
Where they had been so open against Wolves, they were tight and compact against Norwich.
That solid base was the core from which they disrupted and split asunder an open Norwich team.
Birmingham's Che Adams and Norwich's Timm Klose
5. Happy knack
Blues built last season’s positive start on good results before the international break.
It’s a lovely habit to get into because it helps generate a feel-good factor going into a two-week hiatus.
It was all the more important this time too because of the manner of last Saturday’s loss.
We can safely say confidence has been restored - and there’s a free week in which to continue integrating the new players. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-analysis-jack-trades-11809638 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9ce6fb196e076eb81911746e37fa16f7aa041a8724d4f42a6b84ca6e270e8dda.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-27T18:46:38 | null | 2016-08-27T18:27:34 | Supporters vented their frustration after away win drought extended to 385 days at Bristol City | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Froberto-di-matteo-say-angry-11809697.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808987.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98075842.jpg | en | null | Roberto Di Matteo has his say on angry reaction from Aston Villa fans | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Aston Villa fans were left raging after the 3-1 defeat at Bristol City sparking scenes reminiscent of previous campaigns.
As the players and coaching team departed down the tunnel located in the away end, a group of travelling supporters congregated to vent their anger.
While the majority of the crowd clapped off their beaten troops and remain patient as Villa try to rebuild after last season’s relegation, a small section have already started to turn.
“We can’t expect anything else if we lose games,” said Di Matteo when asked about the reaction.
“Also conceding three goals in half an hour is not what I have seen from this team in the previous four matches.”
Villa have won one, drawn two, lost two of their first five games to leave them on five points."
The last win on the road came on August 8 last year at Bournemouth - 385 days ago.
Villa supporters pay their respects to fellow fan Will Falck, who died last week | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/roberto-di-matteo-say-angry-11809697 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/1c2341b79d086570a4551de97d92fa24f943f55e9fd19f8c67af1e0189f07e48.json |
[
"Paul Beard"
] | 2016-08-28T20:46:37 | null | 2016-08-28T19:29:54 | David Tonks knew he was infected with serious disease | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Ftamworth-dad-hepatitis-smeared-ex-11812944.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11812946.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/David-Tonks23JPG.jpg | en | null | Tamworth dad with hepatitis smeared ex-lover's face with his blood | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | David Tonks knew he was infected with hepatitis C, the court heard.
A dad has been jailed for smearing his ex-lover with his own blood – despite knowing he was infected with hepatitis C.
David Tonks slashed his arm and also threatened the victim, the mother of his baby, with a knife in the street.
The 36-year-old, of Smith Lane, Wilnecote, Tamworth , was jailed for a total of six months.
Warwick Crown Court heard the victim injured her arm as she fended off Tonks when he tried to hit her in the head with a length of wood.
It happened in the garden of the victim’s north Warwickshire home on July 23, as her brother and a friend looked on.
Justin Jarmola, prosecuting, said: “He (Tonks) then went into the kitchen, took up a knife and held it to her throat, and also threatened one of the men.
Paul Beard David Tonks was jailed for six months.
“He also cut himself, and he then took his arm, which was bleeding, and spread it across her face – this defendant being hepatitis C positive.”
The victim ran into the street, but Tonks followed her, still with the knife, and pushed her against a wall.
Mr Jarmola said she was left with bruising to her head, an injury to her arm and was “violated by that blood being smeared on her’ – although she was not infected.
Tonks admitted charges of assault and threatening the victim with a knife in the street.
Julian Harris, defending, said information on the NHS website showed hepatitis C could be successfully treated, especially if detected at an early stage.
But Mr Harris conceded: “It is still thoroughly unpleasant.
“He is resigned to his fate. He knows he’s going away.”
Passing sentence, Recorder Christopher Goodchild told Tonks: “Something triggered you to explode, and you hit your former partner with a wooden pole.
“Thereafter you seem to have gone into the house, got yourself a kitchen knife and threatened people with it and, at the same time, cut yourself.
“You then plastered your former partner with that blood around the face.
“I have no doubt that, when you did that, you had in mind that you had been diagnosed with hepatitis C.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/tamworth-dad-hepatitis-smeared-ex-11812944 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/0069d6e448ca484717d44d931331909a25042ce1dad90052a429bfbd61634ac6.json |
[
"Ben Hurst"
] | 2016-08-29T16:46:36 | null | 2016-08-29T17:30:00 | 18-year-old in stable condition after city centre 'targeted' attack | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fteenager-shot-police-comb-area-11815540.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11815496.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/thorp.jpg | en | null | Teenager shot: Police comb area for clues with forensic teams | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Forensic teams have been carrying out tests after a teenager was shot in the leg in what officers are calling a 'targeted' attack.
The shooting took place in Thorp Street, off Hurst Street, city centre, just after 4.10am on Bank Holiday Monday.
The scene along with Hurst Street and part of Bristol Street has been sealed off all day, as specialists gather evidence.
Police say the 18-year-old 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, was closed while forensic teams work at the scene.
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Police vans were at the scene. and the roads were sealed off with police take preventing entry.
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/teenager-shot-police-comb-area-11815540 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9a1a7688f2a90bc6fde446aaf29bc3e02268d616265144af5f04b8fef053155d.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-30T08:48:03 | null | 2016-08-30T08:43:35 | The iPhone7 is now expected to be released next week after Apple all but confirmed it | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fapple-iphone7-launch-date-finally-11816669.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11675885.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/iphone.jpg | en | null | Apple iPhone7 launch date finally CONFIRMED | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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We are a matter of days away from the next iteration of the iPhone, it appears.
The iPhone7 is now expected to be released next week after Apple all but confirmed it.
The tech giant has invited the media to an event in San Francisco a week on Wednesday - September 7 - where it is believed the latest handset will be unveiled.
The press invitation simply reads ‘See you on the 7th”, which may allude to iPhone 7, as well as the date.
The invite also features a number of translucent coloured bubbles, which may relate to the rumour that Apple is planning to introduce new coloured handsets. Or they could be water droplets - which would be relevant if Apple was planning to launch a waterproof iPhone, as rumoured.
Apple iPhone media invitation
The event is taking place at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium at 10am local time, which is 6pm in the UK.
What will it look like?
There's been no shortage of rumours about it - we outlined some here - with lots of images being leaked on social media over the last few months.
Potential First Photo of iPhone 7 Plus Shows Dual-Lens Camera and Smart Connector https://t.co/PNW83XCkPv pic.twitter.com/ZOWe4vUSEw — Apple News (@headlinesapple) March 15, 2016
In truth, if the leaked images are to be believed, the new model doesn't look much different in size to the iPhone 6s, which has a thinner body and larger screen than the iPhone 5 and iPhone 6.
What is it going to cost?
You probably need to start saving now. It is thought models with larger storage will set you back £619 between £699.
However, that is because Apple is looking at the thing that annoys people most about the iPhone – its pitifully small 16GB base level storage – in favour of a more generous 32GB base model.
The current iPhone 6s and 6s Plus lineup offers customers a choice of 16GB, 64GB, or 128GB storage options.
However, supply chain investigations by Kevin Wang, director of market research at respected analyst firm IHS Technology, suggest the iPhone 7 base model will come with with 32GB of storage.
Think you're an iPhone expert? Take our quiz
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Will it be any better?
Because the new iPhone will likely arrive with Apple’s yet-to-be-confirmed iOS 10 software and an upgraded processor, it will offer even more power and better efficiency.
Likely to be boasting a processor called the A10 chip, the iPhone 7 will surely boast more power - although it’s anyone’s guess as to how much this will translate into actual usage.
Where can you buy it in Birmingham?
The Bullring is the obvious place - but be aware, there's generally a LOT of queues.
You might just be able to pick one up from the brand new store on New Street, with major progress on the shop in evidence of late. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/apple-iphone7-launch-date-finally-11816669 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/82738eb76bccca5b41997f547b497374ebaa3b37a3c87c190a433357cce683f3.json |
[
"Neil Elkes"
] | 2016-08-30T16:46:46 | null | 2016-08-30T16:48:59 | Controversial sale of almost 30 police stations will pay for recruitment drive | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fwest-midlands-police-take-1000-11819881.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article10022538.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Police1.jpg | en | null | West Midlands Police to take on 1,000 new police officers and staff | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | MORE than 1,000 new police officers and staff are to be recruited in the West Midlands over the next three years, it was announced today.
West Midlands Police will this autumn begin taking on 800 police constables, 150 PSCOs and 200 specialist investigation staff to tackle cybercrime, such as IT fraud and online paedophiles.
These specialists will free up regular PCs to go back to the front line.
The recruitment drive will be funded by the closure of nearly 30 police stations across the region.
The starting salary for new police officers will be £23,964 and those looking for a career on the beat can register their interest on the police website from Wednesday, August 31.
Labour police commissioner David Jamieson pledged to recruit 1,000 new officers during his re-election campaign in May.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson
Despite Government budget cuts, the controversial closure and sale of 28 police stations means there is money to spend on frontline officers.
Mr Jamieson said: “My top pledges during my election were to recruit police officers, protect PCSOs and put specialist staff in place to tackle the new threats we face. I am delivering on those promises.
“These new police officers and PCSOs will help make our streets safer and tackle crime.
“This recruitment is at nearly double the rate of my previous term in office and is only happening because of the tough decisions that have been taken to make West Midlands Police more efficient.
“West Midlands Police has faced the biggest cuts of any force in the country and is receiving £2.5 million less from the government again this year. “This recruitment of more than 1,000 officers and staff shows that we have the right priorities for the force.”
A spokesman added: “It is PCs who catch criminals, not buildings.”
In 2014 the recruitment of 450 officers attracted 20,000 applicants. Those jobs were all filled by late last year.
There is also a pledge to ensure that the newcomers reflect and represent the region’s diverse population.
Last year there was criticism that the force took on just one black officer out of 162 new staff.
West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: “It is great news that we again have an opportunity to welcome a new group of recruits into West Midlands Police, which will help us to provide an even better service by bringing fresh ideas into our workforce, directly from the communities we serve.
“We have already made significant steps on recruitment. BME officers now make up nearly a third of our current recruits and we are hopeful that the next phase of recruitment builds on this so that West Midlands Police is representative of the many different cultures it serves.”
Watch below: How can a West Midlands mayor create good jobs? | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/west-midlands-police-take-1000-11819881 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/fbc4052dc89845ac44c44d6238d0fd9386c1755ee4d5f7026b2de464933702c3.json |
[
"Mike Lockley"
] | 2016-08-30T10:48:25 | null | 2016-08-30T09:40:04 | Talks have taken place in a bid to include a match-up between former Commonwealth king Don Broadhurst and unbeaten prospect Matt Windle. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fits-rhyme-time-birminghams-battlers-11816926.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11816906.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/NWP_BEM_080715Boxer_11.jpg | en | null | It’s rhyme time for Birmingham's battlers | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A mouth-watering contest to discover who is Birmingham’s Lord of the FLYs is close to being signed and sealed.
Ringside understands talks took place on Monday night in a bid to include a match-up between former Commonwealth king Don Broadhurst and unbeaten prospect Matt Windle on the October 27 NIA mega-bill.
If it’s made – and there’s many a slip twixt cup and lip – the pairing would be a dramatic late addition to a show already dubbed the most significant in our city for decades. In recent fight history, I can’t remember a more important all-Birmingham flyweight (8-stone) encounter than Broadhurst-Windle.
The super-show already features Khalid Yafai in a world super-flyweight challenge, hopefully against Mexico’s WBC champ Carlos Cuadras, and the eagerly-awaited welterweight derby between Frankie Gavin and Sam Eggington.
Broadhurst-Windle would, quite simply, be the icing on the cake. That fight alone is worth the entrance fee.
Jon Pegg, head of Birmingham’s Eastside gym and tasked with resurrecting Broadhurst’s career, last night vowed: “It’s going to happen. Obviously, we’d want it to happen on a big, televised show because the fighters get more money, but it’s going to happen.
“Don will be favourite, but it won’t be like the bookies make it. A champ who has been there against a young, hungry opponent – that’s always a potential banana skin.”
The “if” seems to have been taken care of. The “where” and “when” remains problematic.
It’s hard to see how Matchroom, the promotional giants behind the NIA dream show, could snub showcasing two of Birmingham’s most prodigious ticket sellers on a hometown bill.
Mark Jones Don Broadhurst
Broadhust and Windle alone could fill the cavernous arena. A Matchroom spokesman said the bout is a possibility for the NIA bill.
The plan is for the pint-sized Brummie punchers to contest the vacant English flyweight title over 10 rounds should current champ Charlie Edwards vacate. That seems highly likely: Edwards, who fights for the IBF world title on September 10, has much bigger fish to fry.
It’s an audacious bid to crash the rankings by Northfield’s Windle, British boxing’s only professional poet – he’s twice been named the city’s young poet laureate and earns a crust by teaching verse in schools.
In fact, make that world boxing’s only professional poet.
The 25-year-old has fought just four times, against modest opposition, and gone six rounds only once. It’s a big leap to 10-round status. Matt’s intelligent enough to know he’ll be a huge underdog against Broadhurst, a 32-year-old with 21 contests under his belt (three losses). He’s in deep.
But Erdington’s Broadhurst has boxed only once since a two-year lay-off through terrible tendon injury. June’s four-round comeback against Stefan Slavchev did not reveal how much the veteran has left in the tank, or the depths of his desire.
Defeat would not be the end of the world for Windle. Defeat would retire Broadhurst.
It’s a big-fight build-up thankfully not tarnished by trash-talk. The pair are friends and sparred together only last week.
Windle, surely the country’s most articulate pro, admitted: “I always said the one person I wouldn’t want to fight is Don because he’s helped me so much. Not just tips, but advice about the mistakes he’s made. I’ve learned a lot from him.
“When I first sparred Don, he was Commonwealth champ and I hadn’t even fought three-minute rounds. He took it more than easy, but still managed to bust up my mouth with jabs.
“But it’s an opportunity I can’t say ‘no’ to. Boxing is a very short career. If you’re not going to take the opportunities that are presented, what’s the point?
“Listen, it’s just business. Boxing is a sport at the end of the day – you don’t have to hate each other. If it was football and my best friend played in goal for the opposition, I’d still want to score past him. I don’t fight people because I hate them.
“I turned pro, therefore my job is to fight fellow professional boxers. I’d fight Godzilla if he made 8 stone. It’s Neil’s (trainer Neil Perkins) job to say no, he’s the sensible one. If it’s too much, too soon, he’d say no.
“I always knew I’d get fast-tracked because of my age – and I’m not old by any stretch of the imagination – and the lack of depth in the domestic flyweight division.”
For the record, many fight figures I’ve spoken to, individuals not tied to either camp, believe it’s too much, too soon for Windle.
And, to a degree, their concerns are echoed by Windle’s manager PJ Rowson, a man who is honest to a fault.
“I think it’s too soon (for Windle),” said Rowson matter-of-factly, “but I’ll never be an obstacle for my fighters.
“And, remember, it’s a win-win for Matt. If he loses, he’s lost to a seasoned, former champion. That’s not going to harm his reputation.
“Winning worries me the most, in all honesty. Then Matt’s in line for a British title fight and there’s no way he’s ready for that level.”
Broadhurst, back from sparring in America, refused to bad-mouth his potential opponent.
He said sportingly: “This fight does not need trash-talk. We’ll put everything on the line, we’ll leave blood on the canvas, we’ll shake hands and go for a drink. We both know what we’ve got to do.
“We have both helped each other, but, at the end of the day, if it makes money, it makes sense.”
It makes perfect sense. And I expect – despite Matchroom stalling on a decision over the match – to hear Windle and Broadhurst’s supporters turn the NIA into a cathedral of noise on October 27.
Prepare for the Battle of Birmingham.
Jason Lowe training with Mahvish Akram
Windle can upset odds
Jason Lowe, former boxer-turned-trainer-turned-ref, has encyclopedic knowledge of the Birmingham fight scene. Every single prediction he’s given to Ringside has proved spot on. Therefore, we’ve made him our tipster.
Here is Jason’s take on Broadhurst-Windle.
“I’m going to surprise everyone by going for Windle, who will be a big underdog with the bookies. He’s got youth and activity on his side and you know he’s going to get great sparring.
“I thought Don was a superb amateur, better than Frankie Gavin, but he hasn’t reached those heights as a pro. Then there’s the two years out...
“To win, Don has to get Windle out there early and I don’t think he’s got the power to do that. I think it could be messy early on.
“Windle on points, but it’s very close.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/other-sport/its-rhyme-time-birminghams-battlers-11816926 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/c7a160ea670bf526a3d55974c36d3ac7fc1c8c903ab83b163358239292a17ef9.json |
[
"Tom Marshall-Bailey-Bm"
] | 2016-08-26T16:46:32 | null | 2016-08-26T16:50:00 | Tony Pulis has admitted he is hopeful of making five signings before the transfer window closes - but which positions will he bolster? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-transfers-positions-pulis-11805244.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11779913.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97595013.jpg | en | null | West Brom transfers: Positions Pulis wants five signings in before the deadline | 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 manager Tony Pulis has admitted he is hoping to make a breakthrough in the transfer market ahead of deadline day - and wants to make five more signings.
Until now, the Baggies have only managed to bring in two new players in Matt Phillips and Brendan Galloway from QPR and Everton respectively, with the latter arriving on a season-long loan deal.
At his press conference ahead of a Sunday meeting with newly-promoted Middlesbrough, Pulis insisted quality is as important as quantity in the remaining five days of the window.
"I still think I'm getting them (the five players)," he said.
"I have been at the club for two years and we have re-signed a lot of players who were under contract, but I have also said we need new impetus.
"They have to be the right players. When I came into the club there were players who were here and have since left and they cost an enormous amount of money and the club has not got any return.
"I'm not going to panic and bring a load of players in to satisfy people out there and then, after two weeks, they say they are no better than what we've got."
Here are the five positions Pulis is likely to try and bolster ahead of Wednesday night.
Central defence
James Chester's move to Aston Villa has created a possible vacancy in the middle of the back four for Albion, with only Gareth McAuley, Jonas Olsson and Jonny Evans as recognised central defenders.
Chambers is a loan target for several Premier League clubs
Craig Dawson could operate there if needed, but don't be surprised to see Pulis enter the running for Arsenal defender Calum Chambers ahead of the deadline after Arsene Wenger made him available for a loan deal.
Hull City, Middlesbrough and Southampton are just some of the clubs reported to have registered their interest in the 21-year-old.
Right-back
Dawson is Albion's primary choice in this position but he may suffer from a lack of competition this season in his position and a move for Chambers would make particular sense given his ability to play both centrally and on the right-hand side of defence.
Cristian Gamboa represents one fall-back option for Pulis in this position, but the Costa Rican only made three appearances for the Baggies last season and appears to have no future at the Hawthorns.
Central midfield
Baggies fans would love nothing more than an added injection of creativity and craft in the middle of midfield, an area of the pitch Albion actually continue to look quite light in.
Sandro's close-season return to QPR has means Pulis will be reliant on a midfield quartet of Claudio Yacob, Darren Fletcher, James Morrison and Craig Gardner so an addition here appears a must before the deadline.
Winger
Albion now have an option on the right in Matt Phillips and both James McClean and Chris Brunt offer width on the opposite flank, but Pulis would love to bring in another wideman if he can identify the right fit.
Callum McManaman is another player whose future at the Hawthorns remains up in the air and that might leave space for another right-sided player in Pulis' thinking.
Striker
Rodriguez is Albion's primary target in attack
The most obvious one of the lot; West Brom's need for a new striker is patent.
Irrespective of Saido Berahino's future, Pulis needs to be able to call on a regular goalscorer to ease the burden on Salomon Rondon at the apex of the West Brom attack.
Rickie Lambert has been unable to offer adequate support and Southampton's Jay Rodriguez is widely expected to arrive on loan as a result while Sporting Lisbon's Islam Slimani has also been linked. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-transfers-positions-pulis-11805244 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/dc4dc76231c246bdabf80bc9a0c6a3ac9c8a937f2fc7684b660f5b092f2a1c35.json |
[
"Neil Elkes"
] | 2016-08-31T06:47:03 | null | 2016-08-31T05:30:00 | Do you need qualitifications? Will a conviction rule you out? These and other question | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fwhat-you-need-become-police-11820131.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article7176064.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/police-fitness.jpg | en | null | What do YOU need to become a police officer? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Midlands Police have today announced there are looking for 800 new police constables as part of a recruitment drive for 1,150 new staff.
Before you apply it might be worth checking this first.
You need to be:
Aged between 18 and 60
A British, EU or Commonwealth Citizen or foreign national with leave to stay in the UK
Be physically fit. You need to pass stern tests of speed, strength and endurance. This is not a doddle we are told and full details can be found on several websites. There is a medical and eyesight will be tested
Former chief constable Chris Sims boxing But this is not part of the police fitness test
You will not be rejected because you cannot drive or swim.
No GCSEs, no problem. There are no formal education qualification requirements but applicants are required to take literacy and numeracy tests.
Those with previous convictions for a serious crime including firearms offences, murder and violent crime, sex offences and hate crime will be automatically rejected, as will those convicted of serious motoring and drug offences. Those with convictions for lesser offences will be considered on case by case basis.
Peaky Blinders: Being a Shelby would probably rule you out
Better if you are not part of a notorious crime family. Any relatives or associates with serious convictions could also result in rejection.
You need to not be a fan of the BNP or ISIS. Membership or support of certain groups, political parties and organisations linked to intolerance, violence and terrorism could also rule you out.
The King of Ink need not apply
Tattoos which are prominent, garish or could cause offence are not allowed
Bankrupts or those with outstanding County Court Judgements will be refused
Qualities sought in an officer include effective communication, community and customer focus, personal responsibility, resilience, problem solving, respect for race and diversity and team working.
Accepted candidates can expect a starting salary of £23,964 and 22 days annual leave. There is usually a two year probation period for new recruits.
Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: “Policing is challenging and rewarding. As a constable you’ll get to learn new skills, meet new people and you’ll never know what to expect − each day is different.
“Our officers are key to delivering our vision of preventing crime, while protecting the public and helping those in need.
Whether it’s responding to an emergency or working with local groups to help create a vibrant and caring community, our officers and staff will be the front line in inspiring confidence and really making a difference to people’s lives. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/what-you-need-become-police-11820131 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4e254024ba6759e8de54e4326c7038f42cec9d666decc9c1e0a5edf1b9d185b9.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-28T12:46:44 | null | 2016-08-28T13:17:07 | We take a closer look at the Belgian the Baggies are vying to sign | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwest-brom-transfer-analysis-lowdown-11811363.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811432.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS83775467.jpg | en | null | West Brom transfer analysis: The lowdown on Albion target Nacer Chadli | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion are reportedly lining up a loan deal for Tottenham winger Nacer Chadli after Southampton pulled the plug on Jay Rodriguez’s proposed switch.
The Saints are suddenly quite keen to keep Rodriguez, after the striker scored a late equaliser against Sunderland yesterday.
Albion are now resigned to chasing another striker and another loan option.
Enner Valencia could fit the bill as a forward option, after West Ham signed Italian Simone Zaza.
And Chadli might just be an alternative on the loan front, although the Baggies are staying tight-lipped on the link.
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The Belgian, who is on the fringes at Spurs, would certainly be a great addition.
Career
The 27-year-old came up through the youth ranks at Standard Liege and MVV before joining Dutch club AGOVV Apeldoorn in 2007.
His talent was noticed by the then Eredivise champions Twente who snapped him in the summer of 2010.
He scored in a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Spurs who then brought him to the Club three years later for £7 million.
Bought with the proceeds from Gareth Bale’s then world record £85 million move to Real Madrid, Chadli was slow to make an impression.
Nacer Chadli of Spurs
He scored only one Premier League goal in his first season, but bagged 11 under Mauricio Pochettino in 2014/15.
Whose blocking his path at Spurs?
Despite his promising tally, Pochettino tended to field Erik Lamela, Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli ahead of the Belgian last season.
Chadli has dropped further down the pecking order and has not even been named in any of Tottenham’s first three squads.
Youngster Josh Onomah came on against Liverpool with Heung Min Son also ahead of Chadli.
Nacer Chadli of Tottenham Hotspur
Best position
For Tottenham, he has played predominantly on the left side of midfield.
But Chadli can play on the right wing and also as a number ten.
Attributes
He has real quality in possession, able to pick out a through-the-eye-of-a-needle pass.
Chadli’s passing ability means he’s excellent at knitting together attacks.
He’s also happy to track back for the team and can finish with either foot.
Tottenham's Nacer Chadli is booked by referee Neil Swarbrick during the win at Aston Villa
Weaknesses
Speed is not one of his virtues.
He also has a tendency to dwell on the ball and check back which sometimes hits momentum going forwards.
Where would he fit in?
Chadli would offer competition on both flanks.
He could also compete with James Morrison in a play maker role behind the striker whenever Tony Pulis plays one up front. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-brom-transfer-analysis-lowdown-11811363 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/0ead52ab4b8d16ab40c2b8b9fe15fedaf34a7f3289b4636635aac09c4cc8ad9f.json |
[
"Neil Elkes"
] | 2016-08-29T16:48:07 | null | 2016-08-29T17:10:07 | MP Ken Purchase described as 'passionate and effective representative of his beloved Wolverhampton' | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Ftony-blair-pays-tribute-former-11815782.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11815716.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/BP500669.jpg | en | null | Tony Blair pays tribute to former Black Country MP who died | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | IMP Ken Purchase, left, showing the then Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott around the Corus Steelpark at Wednesfield in 1999. Right Simon Aries works operation manager.
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair has led tributes to the former Wolverhampton MP Ken Purchase, who has died, describing him as a kind, gracious man.
Mr Purchase was MP for Wolverhampton North East from 1992 until he stood down in 2010.
He died, aged 77, after a short illness. He had been a Wolverhampton councillor before entering Parliament.
Leading tributes Mr Blair said: "Ken was a passionate and effective representative of his beloved Wolverhampton and a lovely parliamentary colleague - a kind, gracious man who even when he disagreed did so with charm and without meanness of spirit.
"He was hugely popular in Parliament and will be sorely missed and greatly mourned."
Ken Purchase, left at the opening of Freshway Foods Ltd's new premises in Wolverhampton in 1999. Right is managing director Alan Wright.
Mr Purchase's successor Labour MP Emma Reynolds wrote on Twitter: "Sad news my friend and predecessor Ken Purchase has passed away. He loved helping people and was great champion for Wolverhampton and a better society."
Labour MP Gisela Stuart, who served with Mr Purchase on the Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC) from 2005 to 2010, wrote on Twitter: "So very sorry to learn of death of Ken Purchase. My thoughts are with Brenda and the family. We were on FAC together. He was good man."
My tribute to my friend & predecessor Ken Purchase https://t.co/vBxlBg6rPf — Emma Reynolds (@EmmaReynoldsMP) August 29, 2016
Ian Austin, Labour MP for Dudley North wrote on Twitter: "Very sorry to hear of death of my friend & colleague Ken Purchase, a great man who devoted his life to the service of others." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/tony-blair-pays-tribute-former-11815782 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9e1dbd460c2a0cdd92b94a228fc7a43b1eea77a1e65e319a3984aefd55d0eae1.json |
[
"Aidan Mccartney"
] | 2016-08-31T10:47:55 | null | 2016-08-31T09:45:41 | PSV forward could arrive at the Hawthorns on transfer deadline day | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-rumour-dutch-striker-11821961.json | http://i4.coventrytelegraph.net/incoming/article11821746.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/GettyImages-515734730.jpg | en | null | West Brom rumour: Dutch striker linked with £10million move | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion have today been linked with a £10million move for PSV Eindhoven striker Jurgen Locadia.
HITC Sport, report that the 22-year-old is close to signing for the Baggies with talks ongoing with the forward and his representatives ahead of a potential deadline day transfer.
Locadia is currently out with a groin injury but could be back in action within a month and Albion reportedly have no concerns about his medical history.
He finished last season with ten goals and 12 assists as PSV claimed the Eredivisie title and would bring additional pace and power to the Albion strikeforce.
The attacker, who spent most of last season playing on the left-wing for PSV, has been previously been called-up to the Dutch national squad but is yet to make his international debut. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-rumour-dutch-striker-11821961 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/c4d972777f11cb0418fdafc8b5614d611d262447e67cb672405f65a05642fd2d.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-26T12:57:31 | null | 2016-08-26T11:54:25 | Jonathon Taylor, a Boro reporter at The Gazette, reveals all is far from rosy at the Riverside | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwest-brom-analysis-albion-down-11797016.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11790920.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97824163.jpg | en | null | West Brom analysis: Albion down in the dumps, but so are Middlesbrough | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion go into Sunday's Premier League clash with Middlesbrough reeling from an EFL Cup penalty shootout exit at the hands of League One Northampton Town.
Boro are newly promoted and have picked up four points from their first two top flight fixtures.
Yet all is far from well at the Riverside.
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Like Albion, Boro were unceremoniously dumped out of the EFL Cup this week by lower league opposition.
Aitor Karanka's men bowed out to Championship side Fulham after extra time on Wednesday, meaning Albion will have had an extra 24 hours rest.
Of more concern to Karanka though was the abject performance of his players and the fact he faces a crisis at left-back, after his two first-choice full-backs were injured at Craven Cottage.
New signing Fabio Da Silva created David Nugent's goal with a fine cross, but was forced off with what appeared a muscle twinge just nine minutes into his debut.
His replacement George Friend, Boro's top left-back, limped off with a calf complaint towards the end of the 90 minutes following a hefty tackle from Sean Kavanagh.
It's a massive blow to Boro, especially as Friend had attracted rave reviews for his first two Premier League performances.
Jonathon Taylor covered the game and the post-match press conference for The Gazette, based in Middlesbrough.
"It was a stinker of a night," he said.
"Karanka was critical of his players saying that he would have subbed them all if he could.
"He said Fabio did more in ten minutes than the rest of the players did all game."
Karanka infamously walked out on Boro briefly last season after a training ground row with a number of players.
And although the Spaniard has guided Boro to a very encouraging start on their return to the top flight, Taylor reckons the honeymoon period might soon come to an end.
"Karanka was assistant manager at Real Madrid where he became used to winning," Taylor said.
"But he's now in a league where you can easily lose three in a row.
"The intensity has clearly increased from the Championship.
"They have conceded goals in the second half of all their games so far.
"That's a concern."
Karanka bought relatively well over the summer, but there is still a lack of top level nouse with Boro possessing only a handful of players with Premier League experience.
Alex Baptiste finished the Fulham match at left-back.
If Fabio and Friend miss the trip to the Hawthorns, Taylor expects Antonio Barragan, a right-back by trade, will move from centre-half to left-back with Daniel Ayala likely to return from injury.
Matt Phillips was one of Albion's better players at Sixfields on Tuesday.
Phillips looked fitter and faster than in previous matches and the 25-year-old could well exploit Barragan's lack of expertise on the left flank.
Boro also have problems in goal with Victor Valdes set to miss the game on Sunday.
Brad Guzan, who was guilty of a series of blunders with Aston Villa last season, was far from convincing at Fulham, but is likely to line-up at the Hawthorns. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-brom-analysis-albion-down-11797016 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/58b4b4a5beed1b2864f509ffb379b5f4085793ccf918ca48e0a958890c4987a7.json |
[
"David Hart"
] | 2016-08-27T08:46:24 | null | 2016-08-27T08:01:23 | This much anticipated concert shows CBSO has found a worthy successor to Andris Nelsons | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Fmusic-nightlife-news%2Freview-welcoming-mirga-grainyt-tyla-11807668.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11180313.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/mirga.jpg | en | null | Review: Welcoming Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla, CBSO at Symphony Hall | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | After all the months of anticipation and hype the moment had finally arrived, and Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla stepped on to the stage of a packed Symphony Hall as the CBSO’s new Music Director.
As a one-off Birmingham welcome (and calling-card showpiece for the BBC Proms the following night, but how gratifying we heard it here first) it was a truly amazing concert.
The sense of occasion was almost palpable. Even Mozart’s Magic Flute overture fizzed and sparkled with a clarity and subtlety we rarely hear in such a well-worn opener. And at the end of the programme Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 transcended its fanfare opening to develop into something of a musical quest, lovingly and elegantly sculptured by this remarkable young conductor (strings wonderfully effulgent, woodwind singing with nostalgia), which, after characterful middle movements, concluded in a glorious peroration of life-affirming joy.
An even more impressive vehicle for Gražinytė-Tyla’s musicianship and technique was Hans Abrahamsen’s Shakespeare-inspired 30-minute vocal monologue ‘let me tell you’ for soprano (the stunningly brilliant Barbara Hannigan, who has made the work her own).
Here the demands were totally different, often involving extreme nuances of range, tone, dynamics and controlled virtuosity. The kaleidoscopic and aurally seductive nature of Abrahamsen’s score was, it seemed, flawlessly realised by the quiet precision of Mirga’s direction, and conveyed by a singer and orchestra in turbocharged form.
So – has the CBSO at last found a worthy successor to Andris Nelsons? You bet they have. In just one evening we witnessed exactly what the Mirga magic can do. And this is just the start. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/review-welcoming-mirga-grainyt-tyla-11807668 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/91ee1c6cf55effcf1879159a1de094da50801a986c7b1ae7c485d9334f4760f9.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-30T10:49:25 | null | 2016-08-30T10:27:10 | The Baggies are attempting to lure William Carvalho in a massive coup for the Club | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-waiting-response-club-11817107.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811648.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98134886.jpg | en | null | West Brom waiting on response to club-record bid for Euro 2016 winner | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion are waiting for Sporting Lisbon to respond to their ambitious bid for Portgual's Euro 2016-winning defensive midfielder William Carvalho.
The Baggies were thought to have identified Spain international Ignacio Camacho as their marquee signing in midfield.
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But there appears to have been a change in tact with a club-record offer, in the region of €25 million, having been made for 24-year-old Carvalho.
Reports the bid has been rejected are inaccurate, the Birmingham Mail understands.
Albion will only be able to fund one of the deals, with Carvalho the priority.
Carvalho was an integral member of the Portugal team that won Euro 2016 over the summer, beating tournament hosts and favourites France in the final.
He was also a regular in the Sporting Lisbon side that finished runners-up in the Premeira Liga last season and has opened with three straight wins this term.
If Albion were to land Carvalho, he would be the fourth signing of the summer after Matt Phillips, Brendan Galloway and Nacer Chadli. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-waiting-response-club-11817107 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/02219fa3f6674897092be0d815258d2a96ac69a7db2e16c20d36c7114b9dc2d9.json |
[
"Patrick Scott"
] | 2016-08-29T12:46:55 | null | 2016-08-29T12:57:57 | New data shows the proportion of immigrants claiming benefits in the city is far lower than the non-immigrant population | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fmigrants-birmingham-less-likely-claim-11814565.json | http://i2.liverpoolecho.co.uk/incoming/article8405454.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS25689495.jpg | en | null | Migrants to Birmingham are less likely to claim benefits | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Migrants to Birmingham from overseas are far less likely to claim benefits than those born in the area.
New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions have revealed the number of people with non-UK birthplaces who claim working age benefits across the country as of February 2016.
In Birmingham, 18,664 non-UK born people were claiming these benefits, which include Jobseeker’s Allowance. This equates to 15.7 per cent of all the working age benefit claimants in the city according to the DWP.
Separate figures, also released this week, show that as many as 21.7 per cent of Birmingham’s population is made up of people who weren’t born in the UK.
Is your area safe from crime? Find out with our postcode search tool
That suggests the proportion of immigrants claiming benefits in the city is far lower than the non-immigrant population.
This pattern was repeated across the whole of the West Midlands with the biggest gap being in Solihull where 2.8 per cent of benefits claimants were born overseas compared to 9.6 per cent of the population.
Across the whole of England the DWP said that 333,134 non-UK born people were claiming working age benefits as of February.
That is about 8.5 per cent of the total number of people claiming these benefits.
£10k benefit cheat dad claimed he was kidnapped in Syria
In total, people born overseas constitute as much as 14.7 per cent of the UK’s population - making it far less likely that a migrant will claim benefits than someone born here.
The findings were so stark that only five of the 369 local authority areas for which there were figures showed a larger proportion of migrants claiming benefits than migrants in the population. In each of these five cases the margin was half a percentage point or less.
Birmingham's overseas benefit claimants 15.7% Number of benefit claimants born overseas 21.7% Number of population born overseas
Sandwell's overseas benefit claimants 10.5% Number of benefit claimants born overseas 16.5% Number of population born overseas
Dudley's overseas benefit claimants 4.5% Number of benefit claimants born overseas 6% Number of population born overseas
Solihull's overseas benefit claimants 2.8% Number of benefit claimants born overseas 9.6% Number of population born overseas
Walsall's overseas benefit claimants 6.5% Number of benefit claimants born overseas 11.7% Number of population born overseas | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/migrants-birmingham-less-likely-claim-11814565 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/061d4eabf0e415f8aa69224ce864c9af7fbba63bfc7529b4dc5921eb2d5b7ea4.json |
[
"Andy Richardson"
] | 2016-08-27T06:46:44 | null | 2016-08-27T06:30:00 | Trip to Brean Sands cancelled after coach breaks down | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fyoungsters-enjoy-beach-party-castle-11804904.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11806246.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98012771.jpg | en | null | Youngsters enjoy a beach party in Castle Vale after trip to seaside is cancelled | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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When youngsters were left disappointed after a broken down coach cancelling a trip to the seaside organisers knew exactly what to do - they brought the beach to Castle Vale.
Dozens of excited kids were left in tears after a trip to Brean Sands in Somerset was cancelled on Thursday morning.
The coach they were travelling on burst a fuel pipe on a speed bump as it was leaving the Castle Pool car park when parents noticed the leak.
The day out for 80 youngsters and 20 adults was organised by volunteer group Young Stars.
Luke McLean, manager of Young Stars, said: “It was so bitterly disappointing for everyone who had been so looking forward to the day. The company sent us another coach but in the end it was too late in the morning to make the three hour trip to Somerset.
“We have children who have Asperger Syndrome, autism and Down’s Syndrome and they were all so disappointed. It was difficult to explain to them that they couldn’t now go to the seaside so we thought if we can’t go to the seaside we will bring the seaside to Castle Vale.”
Volunteers brought bags of sand to create a beach and blew up an inflatable swimming pool.
Luke added: “It wasn’t quite the same as going to Brean Sands but we made the best out of a bad situation and I think the kids all had a good time.”
West Midlands Fire Service had sent two vehicles, a first response vehicle and a fire engine, to deal with the leak shortly after 8am.
Company Plaza say they sent out a replacement coach as soon as they heard of the leak but Young Stars cancelled the trip because the delay had taken up too much of the day out.
The coach company has refunded the money and Young Stars have refunded all the parents the £15 per person charge. But contingency plans for the 80 children for the day have cost Young Stars around £700 with food and drinks bought for the trip and activities bought for the day.
Last year Young Stars was featured on ITV’s Surprise Surprise as Luke was nominated by one of their members for a special reward. Luke, aged 26, who works as an activities organiser in a care home, had founded The Young Stars as a 14-year-old.
Luke was ‘surprise surprised’ by popular girl band Little Mix. The band then visited Castle Vale for a filming session with the Young Stars and Surprise Surprise have since paid for Young Stars’ rent for a whole year as well as supplying them with free laptops and a range of screens, ipads and blu-ray equipment.
Young Stars, who are based at Chivenor Primary School, in Farnborough Road, has around 30 volunteers who enjoy various performing arts activities and help to organise days out. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/youngsters-enjoy-beach-party-castle-11804904 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/d5d7df8fb8a797b283a2affa266ad35812fbc568bc2b87ed933f9dbb4d8cab1a.json |
[
"Neil Elkes"
] | 2016-08-26T16:46:19 | null | 2016-08-26T17:05:21 | Heritage expert says thatched roof was an 'architectural joke' by its Dudley based creator | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fhickorys-smokehouse-fire-tragic-loss-11805885.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11806390.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/BEM_ner_260816kingfisher01.jpg | en | null | Hickory's Smokehouse fire: A 'tragic loss' for Black Country heritage | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The devastation of a landmark Kingswinford restaurant and night spot following a major fire is a tragic loss to the Black Country according to a heritage expert.
The iconic Hickory’s Smoke House, built in the 1930s, was completely ruined by the fire on Thursday.
Flames and plumes of smoke could be seen for miles after the restaurant, on the A449 Kidderminster Road in Wall Heath caught fire.
The venue, which is more commonly known as the Kingfisher Club, was designed by a notable Dudley architect GF Webb and was known for its unusual thatched roof. Despite this it had not been given official heritage listing.
Architectural historian Andy Foster said: “Hickory’s was built in 1937 as a lido - it was very fashionable when it was new.
“It was designed by GF Webb, who liked architectural jokes, and gave it a thatched roof. There’s nothing else like it in the Black Country or elsewhere - except the thatched house Webb designed on the Rowley Road in Dudley.
“It’s a very sad loss indeed.”
A huge plume of smoke rises from the Hickory's Smoke House restaurant.
When it opened in the 1930s it was famous for having the UK’s only Olympic sized lido outside London and a popular destination in the summer.
After the second world war it became a famous live music venue, the Kingfisher Club, and hosted a galaxy of top music and caberet stars, including Jerry and the Pacemakers, Bob Monkhouse, the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and Frank Carson.
A decline in customers led to its sale and closure last year. After which it was converted and reopened as Hickory’s Smoke House.
Watch Below: Firefighters tackle blaze at Hickorys Smoke House in Wall Heath | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/hickorys-smokehouse-fire-tragic-loss-11805885 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/fd851600bb282b6d96cd919ca16df2faedb7201db2f3c4736985cd423e1225f2.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-27T12:46:36 | null | 2016-08-27T13:17:44 | As the new series starts, we ask if we're going to see any Birmingham talent | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Fx-factor-2016-can-brummie-11808140.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11808192.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97733957.jpg | en | null | X Factor 2016 - can a Brummie ever win? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham has not had the best of luck with The X Factor.
Brummies have never figured in the top three of any series.
The best we’ve done is when waiter Mason Noise got to the live finals last year but came seventh.
Looking further afield, Wolverhampton’s Liam Payne came third with One Direction in 2010.
Darren Quinton Mason Noise at The X Factor 2016 Live Tour at the Genting Arena
Tamworth’s Niki Evans came fourth, as did Cher Lloyd from Malvern. Then of course there was Wagner from Dudley, who came sixth.
So will there be any talented Brummie newcomers in this series? There certainly aren’t any in tonight’s first episode.
Viewers will see acts from the North West, Durham, Bolton, Leeds and Scotland, but none from the Midlands.
But it’s not like the producers had loads of Brummies to choose from. When auditions came to the city in April, there was hardly a rush of people desperate to show off their singing ability.
Then again, the judges didn't bother to come here. They visited London, Dublin, Edinburgh, Manchester and Leicester but not Birmingham.
Dermot O'Leary reveals why he returned
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Far from long queues, just 120 acts had turned up in the first two hours.
It raised the question of whether we have fallen out of love with The X Factor.
There was speculation that the programme was going to be axed after 12 series when viewing figures plummeted to an all-time low of 5.39 million, compared to 15 million in 2010.
Simon Cowell has made major changes this series in a bid to recapture the glory days.
Here’s what to expect.
Sycho/Thames TV X Factor judges Louis Walsh, Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger and Simon Cowell
When does it start?
The first auditions are screened on Saturday and Sunday, August 27-28, at 8pm.
Who are the judges?
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Viewers will get a sense of deja vu after a wholesale rejigging of the judging panel. The only remaining judge is Simon Cowell, who has brought back Louis Walsh, Sharon Osbourne and Nicole Scherzinger.
Who’s the presenter?
Host Dermot O'Leary
That’s a return to the good old days too. After experimenting with new presenters Caroline Flack and Olly Murs last year, we’re back in the capable hands of favourite Dermot O’Leary. Our Saturday nights start right here.
What’s the format?
The format is also going back to when X Factor was at its best. Instead of having arena auditions, the first time the wannabe contestants meet the judges is in a small room in London.
The next step is then the Six Chair Challenge in an arena, where the singers are given a place but then might have it taken away from them if someone else gets their chair.
The final stages before the live finals start are the Boot Camp and Judges’ Houses. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/x-factor-2016-can-brummie-11808140 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/2c26db00b9eb80d6b35381b334ba07a4b30a4e56f2f2260f5c7c09fc9a70b271.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-27T22:46:39 | null | 2016-08-27T21:56:40 | Owner gives his verdict after Ashton Gate setback | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Ftony-xia-message-after-aston-11810391.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11744967.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/New-Aston-Villa-owner-and-chairman-Dr-Tony-Xia.jpg | en | null | Tony Xia has this message after Aston Villa's defeat at Bristol City | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Tony Xia has called for patience after Aston Villa's defeat at Bristol City.
The 3-1 reverse at Ashton Gate left Villa 16th in the Championship going into the international break.
They have five points from five games after one win, two draws and two defeats.
Xia took to Twitter advising fans to think about the long game after Roberto Di Matteo's men blew an early lead given to them by a Jack Grealish goal.
He wrote: "Shame for the second-halg. Need BIG talk again." And then posted a follow-up Tweet, saying: "Good thing is we found problems and it's a long march not a sprint. Keep the faith and UTV."
Villa's next match is at home to Nottingham Forest on Sunday, 11 September.
Tony Xia's tweets after the defeat at Bristol City
Villa supporters pay tribute to fellow fan Will Falck, who died last week | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/tony-xia-message-after-aston-11810391 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/81fa51e0b419856e6b9c750b5fe3b44be0573eb2b4167622e0e9fdbf51029cee.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-28T18:47:07 | null | 2016-08-28T18:07:20 | Staff shortages and check-in problems trigger nightmare Bank Holiday weekend | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Ffury-birmingham-airport-passengers-wait-11812678.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11812679.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Stephen-FletcherJPG.jpg | en | null | Fury as Birmingham Airport passengers wait TWO HOURS for their luggage | 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
Above: Woman locked inside Boots at Birmingham Airport
Birmingham Airport held crisis talks with baggage-handling bosses after fuming passengers waited up to TWO HOURS to collect their luggage.
Staff shortages involving the handling agent Aviator triggered a nightmare Bank Holiday weekend for travellers arriving at the airport on Saturday.
In a second problem, passengers flying out of Birmingham on the same day faced flight delays of up to four hours because of a computer failure involving airline Monarch.
The glitch meant all bags had to be manually checked in.
The airport told the Mail that managers had met Aviator officials over the agent’s “manpower shortages”.
In a separate statement, Aviator apologised to passengers and admitted the problems were “not acceptable”.
Stephen Fletcher Fed-up passengers wait to check in at Birmingham Airport on Saturday.
The airport said: “Birmingham Airport is aware that the baggage handling agent, Aviator, is experiencing manpower shortages that are impacting on the operation, in particular baggage delivery.
“Our management team has met locally with Aviator to understand the extent of the problem and we have a number of contingencies in place to support its operation and minimise disruption to our customers.
“Handling Agents are directly employed by airlines, not the airport, however the entire airport community contributes to the overall passenger experience and we will be working closely with Aviator to monitor its performance.”
Chaos at Checkin at @bhx_official some refreshments would be greatly appreciated... Two hours and counting. #bhx pic.twitter.com/hPmtsePCyc — Ryan England (@EnglandRyan) August 27, 2016
The airport said check-in was operating normally on Sunday and staff were on hand to help Monarch passengers.
Aviator admitted its ground handling business was “currently experiencing challenges and constraints.”
A statement issued earlier on Sunday read: “These challenges are driven by high levels of unauthorised absence and issues related to staff retention across the station.
“We recognise that this is not an acceptable situation that passengers should have to face, but we are doing everything in our power to mitigate and improve the current situation as a matter of urgency.
“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused to passengers at Birmingham Airport.
“Our mission is now to ensure we reinstate efficient service delivery as fast as we possibly can and every measure is being taken to achieve that.”
We're experiencing a high volume of queries following the disruption @bhx_official. We appreciate your patience as we respond to everyone. — Monarch (@Monarch) August 28, 2016
Passengers took to Twitter to vent their fury at the problems.
Austin Houghton-Bird told the airport: “Shocking experience for luggage collection at @bhx_official this evening!
“2 hours for your luggage is unacceptable! #staffshortage”
And Mark Lisgo added: “Still waiting for my luggage to arrive at the baggage claim nearly 1 hour later!
“Aviator to blame for this shambles?” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/fury-birmingham-airport-passengers-wait-11812678 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/64ad73f64abed3a0d3580b102457bc94ed8ac249caee431527b232fb28fc3028.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:30 | null | 2016-08-26T10:52:07 | The Saints are preparing for life without Jay Rodriguez | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-transfer-news-path-11803164.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11781967.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS95781818.jpg | en | null | West Brom transfer news: Path clearing for Rodriguez loan deal | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Southampton boss Claude Puel admits he is open to loaning out Jay Rodriguez as West Bromwich Albion close in on a deal for the striker.
The Saints agreed a club-record fee of £21million for Sofiane Boufal from Lille to add to their options up front in Shane Long, Charlie Austin and Nathan redmond.
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Boufal's imminent arrival frees up Rodriguez for a loan move away that Puel is seemingly open to.
"A thought with Jay is to see whether he will stay with us or go on loan to another club," the Frenchman said.
Hull City are also keen on signing Rodriguez.
But Albion are believed to have offered the England international better terms and hope to seal a deal in the next 48 hours.
Albion have maintained throughout the summer transfer window that Saido Berahino would only be sold once a replacement had been brought in.
But with the deadline fast approaching, it appears more and more likely that Berahino will only be allowed to leave if the Baggies bring in two strikers to take their quota up to four. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-transfer-news-path-11803164 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/71bfd3d26aa92643c6f50a1400c3b2004fd731654814518a49d1826b30b0bf5f.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-27T16:47:27 | null | 2016-08-27T17:33:56 | A lowdown on the Australian midfielder's claret and blue bow | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fheres-how-aston-villas-mile-11809374.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11778310.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97450601.jpg | en | null | Here's how Aston Villa's Mile Jedinak did on his debut | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Today was the first chance for Aston Villa fans to feast their eyes on their Australian midfielder Mile Jedinak.
The former Crystal Palace captain joined the club last week but was unable to make his debut against Derby County due to work permit issues.
But he did start at Ashton Gate and was on the end of a 3-1 thumping by Bristol City this afternoon.
Straight from the off, it became clear what the 32-year-old is going to bring to this Aston Villa side.
He isn't the most mobile footballer in the world, but what he lacks in speed, he more than makes up for with experience and know-how.
His grit and determination is something that clearly comes naturally and something that will serve Villa well in the years ahead.
Jedinak's first-half performance didn't continue into the second.
He looked ragged and off the pace at times but maintained his positional discipline a little better than most of his team mates.
He was booked for a crude challenge on Lee Tomlin as his lack of game time began to catch up with him in the dying embers.
Aston Villa's Mile Jedinak
We all know what a good player he is and that will be shown with time.
Today was a baptism of fire and one that he couldn't quite live with.
However, it won't be long before we see the best of him in claret and blue.
Ashley Westwood didn't look the ideal partner for him, the Australian needs someone who can play progressive passes next to him.
Westwood doesn't add anything extra to what Jedinak is already providing. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/heres-how-aston-villas-mile-11809374 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f023b623a1d4ee8c9209e40bdfbe88a339044d8a654a6399296aeb2689f0e94f.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T16:46:16 | null | 2016-08-26T15:37:16 | The Italian is the latest in a long line of strikers to be linked with a switch to B6 this summer | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwho-stefano-okaka-heres-you-11805647.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11805062.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS82964881.jpg | en | null | Who is Stefano Okaka? Here's all you need to know about Aston Villa's latest transfer target | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Rumours are doing the rounds today regarding a potential move to Aston Villa for Italian hotshot Stefano Okaka.
The striker has enjoyed one spell in England before, which came during Fulham's days in the Premier League.
Now at Belgian side Anderlecht, the striker fits the profile of the player that Dr Tony Xia and Roberto Di Matteo are desperate to bring to the club.
Here is all you need to know about the latest man to linked with the club.
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Playing style
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM - OCTOBER 22: Stefano Okaka Chuka of Anderlecht celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the UEFA Europa League Group J match between RSC Anderlecht and Tottenham Hotspur FC at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium on October 22, 2015 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
A 6ft1in striker noted for his pace and power, Okaka is slightly different in style to Villa's other two transfer targets, Enner Valencia and Abel Hernandez.
Due to his physical prowess, the 4-2-3-1 system that Roberto Di Matteo tends to use will suit him down to the ground.
The one issue could be his goal scoring capabilities. Despite scoring 17 goals last season, the striker has never scored consistently throughout his career.
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 18: Stefano Okaka Chuka of Anderlecht and Sasa Zdjelar of Olympiacos during the UEFA Europa League round of 32 first leg match between Anderlecht and Olympiakos FC at Constant Vanden Stock Stadium on February 18, 2016 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Before his switch to Anderlecht in 2015, he had only scored 25 league goals at his seven previous clubs, which wouldn't fill any Villa fan with a huge amount of confidence.
Career so far
He began his career with Italian giants Roma and was regarded as one of the most highly rated youngsters in Europe in his teens.
Unfortunately, as is so often the case, he didn't reach his full potential quickly enough to make an impact at a big club meaning he was allowed to leave.
He subsequently joined Modena where he had little success. Spells with five further clubs followed before his move to Belgium last summer.
One of those moves was to Fulham on a six-month loan, where his impact was minimal to say the least.
He has been capped four times by Italy during the course of the last two years, and has managed to score once. But his 17 goal season for Anderlecht wasn't enough to earn him a spot at Euro 2016.
GENOA, ITALY - NOVEMBER 18: Stefano Okaka (L) of Italy is challenged by Ansi Agolli of Albania during the International Friendly match between Italy and Albania at Luigi Ferraris on November 18, 2014 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
What's been said?
This is what his Roy Hodgson had to say after signing him on loan...
"I'm sure he will get better and I'm sure he will turn out to be a useful signing for us. But he's not a saviour by any stretch of the imagination.
"He's a player we were able to get in on loan for this period of time and a player who has some interesting characteristics that we might be able to use, but he's not the man who will carry us.
"We're not saying don't worry if Andy Johnson's not around because we have Stefano Okaka - that would be placing far too much responsibility on his shoulders.
"He's a young raw player and had Erik Nevland not had that toe problem, he would not have started." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/who-stefano-okaka-heres-you-11805647 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9b93e3424cc5e0c0af6d8af7f3003655cdc05e70da25118ec753b28a5ea8d767.json |
[
"Brett Gibbons"
] | 2016-08-26T14:46:28 | null | 2016-08-26T15:08:38 | Amazingly only minor injuries after crash which left building badly damaged | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fwatch-car-demolished-front-estate-11805208.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11805213.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98001221.jpg | en | null | Watch: Car demolished front of estate agent shop in Pershore Road | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Two people escaped with minor injuries when a car smashed into the front of a Birmingham estate agent’s office after careering off a busy road.
The silver saloon ploughed through railings just yards from a zebra crossing and demolished the frontage of the shop in Pershore Road, Selly Oak at about 11.40am on Friday.
It smashed down a wall and crashed through the front window ending up in the property firm office.
Luckily there were no pedestrians on the crossing or on the pavement outside the shop.
An employee was in the shop but she was not badly hurt and was treated at the scene for a foot injury by paramedics.
Firefighters from Billesley and Kings Norton made the scene safe.
The driver was also discharged at the scene after being checked over by an ambulance crew.
@BillesleyFire Car hits estate agent in Pershore Rd. Selly Oak
A spokesperson for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “We were called to Pershore Road in Selly Oak to reports that a car had collided with a building.
“One ambulance was sent to the scene.
“The driver was treated for minor injuries and the shop assistant was also checked at the scene, although her injuries are not believed to be serious.”
A spokesman for West Midlands Fire Service said: “One vehicle was involved.
“Although there was significant damage to the building it was not structurally compromised.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/watch-car-demolished-front-estate-11805208 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/825d2d907477296aa6e8580ea526596e6213b39996769acb27b33bfe1ce890db.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-31T04:47:23 | null | 2016-08-31T05:00:00 | The time by which transfer deals must be done | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Ftransfer-deadline-day-what-time-11821437.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11821435.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97441882.jpg | en | null | Transfer deadline day: What time does the window close? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Transfer deadline day is here.
The date in our collective diaries that marks the end of football's wheeling and dealing for a few more months.
Clubs will frantically try to squeeze in transfers before the window closes - so here's a handy guide to when they must switch off the fax machines (or more likely emails) and be satisfied (or not) with what they've got.
When does the transfer window close?
The transfer window shuts today (Wednesday August 31) at 11.30pm - so your club should be done in time for you to watch the second half of First Dates on Channel 4.
When did the transfer window re-open?
It's been open since July 1 and officials, players and agents have been chatting transfers before then. So if your club has acted like a teenage student doing coursework and left it to the last minute, then more fool them!
When does the loan window end?
Unlike last year, there will be no emergency loan window, and no separate deadline day for loans. Any loan deals must be completed by the end of the normal transfer window tonight. Gulp - that's a major safety net removed.
How much can we expect to see spent?
Loadsamoney! The 2015 window saw a record £859 million spent by Premier League clubs but, with the new broadcasting deal due to kick in, this summer is likely to be even bigger.
English top flight clubs have already spent a collective £800million so far so the £1billion mark may well be passed before the window closes.
The Game's Gone - Tom Ross book launch | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/transfer-deadline-day-what-time-11821437 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b6ad315283fc516129f2a9c3666b7f8b881c9956550439f1ef06ef40d22fb176.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-27T08:46:44 | null | 2016-08-27T08:00:00 | Roberto Di Matteo said there were several factors which convinced him to sign Ritchie De Laet | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Froberto-di-matteo-reveals-what-11800971.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11787056.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97780369.jpg | en | null | Roberto Di Matteo reveals what attracted him signing Ritchie De Laet from Premier League champions Leicester City | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Aston Villa manager Roberto Di Matteo has expressed his delight at securing Championship promotion specialist Ritchie De Laet.
The full-back joined from Premier League champions Leicester City during the week and becomes the fourth player to join this summer who has experience of achieving promotion from the division during the last three years.
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In fact, he's done it twice. After earning promotion with Leicester as champions in 2014, he followed it up by helping Middlesbrough go up automatically during a highly productive loan spell.
And as if that wasn't enough, he also collected a Premier League winners medal thanks to his forays with the Foxes at the beginning of their memorable campaign.
While Di Matteo admits De Laet's promotion history is something that excites him, he insists there was a much deeper thought process in identifying him as the solution to their right-back problem.
"There's different attributes I look at but certainly the fact that he's won promotion from the Championship twice into the Premier League is certainly one that we looked at," said the Italian.
Middlesbrough’s Ritchie De Laet
"The other aspects are obviously his football qualities. His professionalism, his work ethic and ultimately he was very keen to come."
Being keen to join Dr Tony Xia and Di Matteo's revolution is something that has been emphasised all summer, the pair want players who will buy into their philosophy.
"I don't want to have players here who don't want to be here. I want players here who want to be part of it and want to try and be successful here.
"The player made a big effort to come to us and those are the sorts of players that you want around.
"He had Premier League interest as well but he looked at the club and the team, the project and the ambition of the club and I think that was key for his future.
"He's at a fantastic age football-wise. He can play along the back four. He's played right-back, he's played left-back and he can fill in at centre-back as well." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/roberto-di-matteo-reveals-what-11800971 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/1a872401f55112f83dd6fbdbdc663baab54306c820d0c495a0d54281f35e640a.json |
[
"Matt Cannon"
] | 2016-08-27T14:46:47 | null | 2016-08-27T13:09:19 | Tyburn Road has been closed near to junction with Bromford Lane near Erdington | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fman-dies-after-being-hit-11808183.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11808184.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Helicopter-in-Tyburn-Road.jpg | en | null | Man dies after being hit by lorry in Tyburn Road | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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A 62-year-old man has died after being hit by a lorry in Tyburn Road this morning.
A stretch of the road had been closed near to the junction with Bromford Lane where West Midlands Police said the incident happened around 9.15am today.
A Midlands Air Ambulance helicopter was seen landing around 100 metres away at the junction with Wood Lane shortly after 10am.
The collision happened on the Minworth-bound side of the carriageway.
Speaking before the news of the man's death, a spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "Tyburn road has been closed at the junction of Bromford Lane after a man was hit by a lorry.
"We were called to the incident around 9.15am after being informed by the ambulance service."
Where police say the incident happened.
The road between Minworth and the city centre - has now re-opened.
The Birmingham Mail has approached the Midlands Air Ambulance service which is yet to respond.
The footage above was captured by passer-by Stephen Moylan.
The junction where Tyburn Road meets Bromford Lane.
The charity Samaritans is available around the clock for people who want to talk. Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.uk | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/man-dies-after-being-hit-11808183 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/69ce5a6284fea9db86b81567d0aa6939302c24b5aa4fb38cbe43f98e063f9432.json |
[
"Brian Dick"
] | 2016-08-28T22:46:49 | null | 2016-08-28T22:30:00 | The Blues striker was at the double against Norwich on Saturday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fclayton-donaldson-penalty-perfection-silencing-11812842.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11809109.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98079530.jpg | en | null | Clayton Donaldson on penalty perfection and silencing the social media critics | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham City striker Clayton Donaldson revealed no practice made perfect as he was on the spot for Blues against Norwich.
The experienced striker made up for his penalty miss at Wigan by nervelessly converting from 12 yards out against the Canaries.
Donaldson sent Northern Ireland international Michael McGovern the wrong way to give Blues a 2-0 lead in the 68th minute - and score his first of the season.
But despite that miss at the DW Stadium and recent criticism over his lack of goals the 32-year-old claimed he had no hesitation stepping up again.
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“I didn’t have any second thoughts,” he said. “It was a good save (at Wigan). The keeper [Adam Bogdan] came up to me after the game and said he knows I like to go down the middle.
“The last penalty I had taken before that was over a year ago so I didn’t think he would remember!
“But I have not been practising them since Wigan. You can practise them all you want but in the games it’s a completely different ball game, a whole different pressure.
“You’ve just got to have a belief and put them away.”
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson scores his second goal of the game to make it 3-0
Donaldson insisted his belief has never dropped even though he hadn’t hit the back of the net since April.
Indeed the Jamaica international had struggled for form this season with some calling for the leading scorer for the past two seasons to be dropped.
He claims he remains impervious.
“I wasn’t aware of criticism coming my way this week about a lack of goals - not at all. I’m not on any social media and that is one reason why really.
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson celebrates after scoring his second goal of the game to make it 3-0
“That is good when everything is going well but a dip in form and no goals and people try and get on your backs for the wrong reasons.
“I always try and keep myself focused and put in a good performance. If that helps us get the three points, that is all that matters really.
“It is always a relief to get off the mark and to get two goals and three points, it keeps those supporters who are trying to put pressure on you...it kind of shuts them up for a week or two.
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson and Norwich's Michael McGovern
“The main is it’s three points for Birmingham City and if I can get the goals and help the team, that’s an added bonus.
“I always try to improve on the season before and that is definitely my aim this season.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/clayton-donaldson-penalty-perfection-silencing-11812842 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/980080fc700e4b114d9103f39ee4aa39d6f491370c3be051a0ef2e723f18291a.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:45 | null | 2016-08-26T10:22:35 | Villa hope to land either the West Ham striker or Hull City's Abel Hernandez | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwhat-aston-villa-need-happen-11803023.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article9224022.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/West-Ham-Uniteds-Enner-Valencia-L-in-action-with-Aston-Villas-Jack-Grealish.jpg | en | null | This is what Aston Villa need to happen in order to sign Enner Valencia | 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
Aston Villa are closely monitoring West Ham’s striker search as they continue to track Enner Valencia.
Boss Roberto Di Matteo is keen on the Hammers hitman and also Hull City’s Abel Hernandez as he looks to bolster his strikeforce.
Slaven Bilic will only let Valencia leave if he can strengthen his own forward line and that could prove difficult after last night’s Europa League exit.
Juventus forward Simone Zaza was close to agreeing a move to the Premier League side but Bilic refused to prove an update on the situation in the aftermath of the Olympic Stadium defeat to Romanian side Astra Giurgiu.
“After what happened here, I don’t know. We were close (before the game)” he said.
Whether that means the Zaza move could be off, remains to be seen.
He's not the only player West Ham are interested in. Manchester City’s Wilfried Bony and Chelsea striker Loic Remy are also on the radar.
The promise of European football would have been a huge pull but now they could find negotiations tougher as players consider other options.
Villa are tracking all movements carefully as they hope to land Valencia.
Owner Tony Xia was in London last night to watch the game as the 26-year-old came off the bench at half-time but failed to make an impact.
Yesterday, boss Roberto Di Matteo wouldn’t talk about individual targets but the Birmingham Mail understands both Valencia and Hernandez top the wish-list.
Chelsea’s Patrick Bamford has been tracked all summer but he is keen on a move to the Premier League having tested himself in the Championship on two previous occasions.
Burnley appear to be close to landing the ex-Middlesbrough and Derby loanee. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/what-aston-villa-need-happen-11803023 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/436434309ca77ac5229934ef0778a328f5efe5e8e1ac307ebeb91b247e211d0e.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-29T18:46:57 | null | 2016-08-29T18:48:16 | The Belgium international is comfortable in a range of offensive roles | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-broms-13m-new-boy-11816201.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811432.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS83775467.jpg | en | null | West Brom's £13m new boy Nacer Chadli reveals his best position | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion 's £13 million record signing Nacer Chadli hopes his versatility will offer more options in attack.
The 27-year-old, capped 32 times by Belgium, joined from Spurs on a four-year deal.
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He became Albion's third signing of the summer transfer window after Matt Phillips and Brendan Galloway and is the Club's most expensive acquisition, eclipsing the £12 million spent on Salomon Rondon last August.
The Baggies fired a blank against Middlesbrough on Sunday and were the second lowest scorers in the top flight last season.
Creativity has been an issue for some time, but Chadli should be able to help in that regard.
"I think my best position is out on the left or maybe under the striker," he said.
"But I can play anywhere in midfield if asked.
"This is a great challenge and I want to show my quality to the fans and to the club.
"I just want to help the team win as many games as possible and to show good football as well."
Chadli scored 25 goals in 119 appearances across three seasons at White Hart Lane.
The unpredictability and the passion of the Premier League made him want to remain in English football's top flight.
"Small teams can beat big teams on any day," he said.
"It's a great competition and I really wanted to stay in it which is why I came here.
"I watched the game against Middlesbrough and it was a positive game.
"Albion created good chances but didn't score.
"But I know from playing against them how very well organised they are and how tough they can be to beat.
"There's a good group there.
"I learned a lot of things about how much the fans cherish the league and football.
"People live for football here, it's great.
"There's a lot of quality players here, you can learn a lot from them and every week is a hard game."
Chadli has not figured for Spurs this season, with Mauricio Pochettino preferring Erik Lamela on the left side of an attacking trio.
But the powerful Belgian is happy with his fitness levels.
He said: "My fitness is good.
"I've trained now for six days a week for two months so I am physically fit.
"I just need some game time to be at 100 per cent.
"I want to show the fans and the club why they brought me here and I'm very excited." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-broms-13m-new-boy-11816201 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/be03ab92f302e3f33f343b622b98afa3e60cbd87acf0ffac9808039e2a46fe61.json |
[
"Aidan Mccartney"
] | 2016-08-31T08:49:24 | null | 2016-08-31T07:43:03 | Albion have kicked-off deadline day by allowing forgotten full-back out on loan | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwest-brom-transfers-brighton--11821542.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article10337697.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Pocognoli.jpg | en | null | West Brom transfers: Brighton & Hove Albion complete deal for defender | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion defender Sebastien Pocognoli has completed his expected season-long loan switch to Brighton & Hove Albion.
The 29-year-old left-back has moved to the promotion-seeking Championship side after struggling for minutes under Albion boss Tony Pulis, making only five first-team appearances last season.
Pocognoli has one year left on the deal he signed when he joined from German side Hannover 96 in July 2014, with another year in Albion ’s favour.
His last appearance was as a second half substitute in the 1-0 win over Manchester United in March, in what was his only Premier League match of the season and he has made a total of 21 appearances for the club.
The Belgian international now joins Cristian Gamboa in leaving the club with the Costa Rican signing on a permanent deal for Celtic yesterday.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images Albion's Cristian Gamboa battles for the ball with Peterborough's Andrew Fox
Albion boss Chris Hughton said, “We are delighted to add Sebastien to our squad, as the injury to Liam has left us a little bit short of cover in both full-back positions.
“Sebastien has a vast amount of experience having played in some of the top divisions in Europe, as well as in the Champions League.
“He is the type of quality player we want to add to the squad, and we are looking forward to working with him.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-brom-transfers-brighton--11821542 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/3eaba901d33e1f991b4bfc512a8ef6c66c1f02b07bfff578ee6de0eb8254ea27.json |
[
"Joseph Chapman"
] | 2016-08-29T14:47:56 | null | 2016-08-29T13:38:44 | Blues striker Nicolai Brock-Madsen expected to move to the Eredivise | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fbirmingham-city-transfer-rumour-striker-11814733.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article9817872.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/A-general-view-of-the-stadium-ahead-of-the-Sky-Bet-Championship-match-between-Birmingham-City-and-Reading-at-St-Andrews.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City transfer rumour: Striker set for Holland? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Reports in Holland suggest that Nicolai Brock-Madsen is set for a move to PEC Zwolle on loan.
The Danish forward is yet to get off the mark for Blues since arriving last summer, but spent this summer in Rio representing his nation at the Olympics.
Any potential exit would free up room in Gary Rowett’s squad for further arrivals.
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Brock-Madsen moved to St Andrew’s from Randers, but has struggled to overthrow Clayton Donaldson as the club’s leading striker in that time.
He made his first appearance for Blues in the Capital One Cup as a sub against Gillingham, and was handed his first start in the defeat at home to Charlton.
James Vaughan has already been moved on from Blues’ attacking department this summer, while Lee Novak and Wes Thomas were both released. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/birmingham-city-transfer-rumour-striker-11814733 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/c1858b5e8418adf0802d561528c25445945d2b1a49cdf74522c9a879e2fb41e4.json |
[
"Mike Lockley"
] | 2016-08-28T06:46:22 | null | 2016-08-28T06:30:00 | Family reveal bravery of Kathy Lane, 69, who survived to see twisted sex beast face justice | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fwidow-raped-vile-john-scanlon-11806237.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11806490.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Kathy-Lane.png | en | null | Widow raped by vile John Scanlon dies weeks after seeing him jailed | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A frail pensioner who was pulled from a mobility scooter and raped in her own home, has died.
The disabled 69-year-old, just 4ft 7ins tall, did not fight or scream during her horrific ordeal at the hands of John Scanlon because she feared the slaughterhouse worker would turn on her beloved Yorkshire terrier, Molly.
The old lady, a former school crossing warden, never recovered from the sickening February attack and the ordeal of Scanlon’s trial.
John Scanlon has been jailed for life.
Petrified and bemused, she clutched a toy, a pink woollen pig, while giving evidence.
That toy will be placed in her coffin.
She lived in fear, too scared to leave her home and tortured by flashbacks of the degradation Scanlon subjected her to.
Nieces Carrie and Michelle Byrne from Sheldon
The widow died on August 19 from a stroke.
Her family insisted her death was the result of her nightmarish ordeal at the rapist’s hands.
Today, following a request from the family, we can, for the first time, name the poor woman whose life effectively ended when 46-year-old Scanlon stormed into her flat.
Kathy Lane swapped a loving, close-knit community in Small Heath, where she was popular and well-known, for a Nechells tower block often invaded by lager-swilling lowlifes who prowled the corridors.
Kathy Lane received a cake from her nephew saying well done for giving evidence
None stooped as low as twisted Scanlon, sentenced to life last month for the rape.
Throughout the three-day Birmingham Crown Court case, he betrayed not a flicker of emotion, not a sliver of contrition.
Scanlon, from Shard End, is the shuffling embodiment of every woman’s nightmare.
Before channelling his depravity on Kathy, the monster with bulging, soulless eyes, sexually assaulted another vulnerable woman living in sheltered accommodation.
He was jailed for 42 months for that crime.
Kathy’s family had to endure Scanlon’s cruel lies, thrown out in a bid to save his worthless, tattooed skin.
When he claimed that he and disabled Kathy – a woman unable to walk, crippled by heart and lung disease – were an “item” and enjoyed a consensual sexual relationship, one relative had to be restrained from rushing the dock.
Kathy on her wedding day with late husband Bob Lane
Seared by bitterness, Kathy’s large family made no bones about their motive for approaching the Sunday Mercury, the newspaper that first broke the terrible story.
Niece Carrie Byrne, from Sheldon, said: “He killed her, we’ve no doubt about that.
"You may think it’s terrible, but we pray fellow prisoners will read this; we just pray the cell door will be left open.
"We want him to feel a piece of the pain and fear he put Kathy through.”
Kathy (right) with sister Margaret Byrne
Her sister, Michelle, nervously fingering photographs of her beloved aunt, said: “We refuse to call him an animal because not even animals stoop that low. Humanity is going to pot.
"If he is let out – and I don’t think he should ever be let out – I want him branded, physically branded, with what he did.”
Kathy, a woman who possessed a wicked sense of humour despite her catalogue of health problems, fell prey to prowling Scanlon as she entered Willow House following an early morning shopping trip.
He did not live in the block, he simply stalked the labyrinth of corridors, badgering its residents for loose change.
Leery with lager, he first pestered Kathy for cash, then waited at the door of her third floor flat, her tidy home of eight years.
The terrified OAP was lifted from her mobility scooter and raped on her own bed.
Throughout, Kathy pleaded: “I can’t breathe.”
When the horror finally ended, Scanlon calmly took one of Kathy’s cigarettes and smoked it in front of his victim.
He helped himself to £30 from her purse and two phones before leaving.
But Kathy’s ordeal did not end on February 4.
Proud and trusting, she had to endure the humiliation of being tested for AIDS and hepatitis.
“She just went downhill,” said Carrie, 40.
“Kathy was good at putting on a brave face, but you could see by the way she deteriorated the damage that had been done.
“She talked about what had happened – that was Kathy, she was a very practical person.
"She’d ask: ‘How could someone do that to a woman?’
“Before it happened, she had some mobility.
"That completely went because of what Scanlon did to her.
“She wouldn’t come to the door, she was petrified of going out.
"Everything that reminded her of what happened had to go – we even replaced the mobility scooter.”
Her family – Kathy was one of ten children – could only watch helplessly as the elderly victim, once bright and bubbly, slipped into a silent world inhabited by Scanlon’s demons.
“She used to be a joy to be around,” said 46-year-old Michelle, forcing a smile.
“Her second home was The Garrison pub.”
She was certainly larger than life.
Kathy and husband Robert, a long-distance lorry driver who died four years ago, lived for 30 years in Garrison Lane, Small Heath.
She held down a variety of jobs, including working as a dinner lady and crossing patrol warden at Marlborough Junior School.
“She was very outspoken,” said Carrie, “and she loved her swear words.
"She even taught her budgie to swear!
"That was Kathy, she was fun to be around.
"They couldn’t have children, so she treated her animals like babies.
“She loved Tom Jones – adored Tom Jones.
"She loved the song Bobby’s Girl by Susan Maughan and when she was dying at Heartlands Hospital I held my phone to her ear and played it.”
In a handful of sadistic minutes, Scanlon turned Kathy into a pale shadow of the fun-loving, if feisty, woman so adored by her family.
“She was petrified, absolutely petrified, about going to court,” revealed Carrie.
“Kathy loved pig ornaments and had a house full of them.
"My son bought her a pink teddy, a pig, and she held it tightly in the witness box.
"When it was over, she just seemed to give up.
"I think she was just waiting to see him put behind bars.
“We had to sit there and listen to him saying he had slept with Kathy seven or eight times.
"Wasn’t raping her enough without trying to drag her name through the dirt?
"When he said that, if I could have jumped through the box and got to him, I would have.
“I watched him and there was nothing.
"He just sat there, with his arms folded and stared at the judge.
"There was absolutely no remorse.
"We have been told he can apply for parole in nine years.
"It’s not enough. He gets three meals a day.
"Kathy couldn’t even cook a meal after what he did to her.”
The pensioner suffered a massive stroke at the Horrell Road, Sheldon, bungalow she moved to following the crime.
She slipped away within hours of being rushed to hospital.
“To the day she died, Kathy carried the bruises from what he did to her,” said Michelle.
“There was a dramatic decline after she gave evidence, she became very upset.
"He put her through that. He didn’t even have the guts to admit what he did.”
For Kathy’s family, there was one more insult to endure.
"They have been rocked by the news Scanlon is acting as a Samaritan behind bars, providing succour for struggling fellow lags.
“I dread to think what advice he’s giving them,” seethed Carrie.
Kathy’s funeral takes place at Yardley Cemetery on September 7 at 1pm. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/widow-raped-vile-john-scanlon-11806237 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/e84de53a9051d6c565eb2e468ed8d569aea54e39da1a88ef64d47783869b91f8.json |
[
"Neil Elkes"
] | 2016-08-26T14:49:37 | null | 2016-08-26T14:39:04 | Millions of pounds earmarked for education is "disappearing into the back pockets of those in charge" warns national education boss | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fcalls-more-schools-oversight-wake-11803716.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article9623167.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS67846295.jpg | en | null | Calls for more schools oversight in wake of scandal in Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The Birmingham school finance scandal which led to the resignation of superhead Liam Nolan has prompted calls for councils to be given greater powers to monitor funding of academies.
Earlier this year Mr Nolan stepped down as head and chief executive of the Perry Beeches Academy Trust after investigations, prompted by an internal whistleblower, found financial mismanagement - including £1.3 million payments to suppliers linked to school governors without contracts.
A Government investigation found Mr Nolan was paid an extra £160,000 over two years, on top of his £120,000 salary, via education company Nexus Schools.
Meanwhile, he was being lauded by former Prime Minister David Cameron and Education Secretary Michael Gove as a shining example of the success of the academy system.
This along with a string of scandals at other academies throughout the country has prompted the Local Government Association (LGA) to call for councils to be given greater powers to oversee academies.
Headteacher Liam Nolan at Perry Beeches School
At present academies are answerable only to the Department for Education and its Education Funding Agency - but the LGA says it is incapable of keeping tabs on the 5,000 academies and free schools - a number which is set to rise to 20,000 by 2022.
LGA education chairman Richard Watts, who is also Labour leader of Islington council, said: “We are told that academies and free schools are subject to more financial scrutiny than council-maintained schools, yet we keep hearing that millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money, which has been earmarked to make sure our children get a good education, is disappearing into the back pockets of those in charge.
“Parents have a right to know that their children have access to the best possible education and support at school – and that money for teachers and equipment isn’t instead being spent on first class train tickets or topping up chief executive salaries. Effective auditing of school accounts must be in place for that to happen.”
His call echoes comments made by Birmingham’s own education chief Brigid Jones in the wake of the Perry Beeches and Trojan Horse schools scandals.
Watch below: Perry Beeches 4 launched by superhead Liam Nolan in 2014
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Speaking in March she said the scandals raise “very serious questions about both the leadership at Perry Beeches and about ministers’ oversight of academies”.
The LGA report also highlighted the case of the founder and two members of staff at Kings Science Academy in Bradford being found guilty of transferring £150,000 of Department for Education grants into their own bank accounts as well as raising questions over the 40 largest academy trusts paying executive salaries totalling more than £1 million each.
A Department for Education spokesman said: “All academies operate under a strict system of oversight and accountability - more robust than in council-run schools - ensuring any issues are identified quickly. Unlike other schools their accounts are scrutinised by an independent auditor and we have considerably more financial information about academies than we ever had for council-run schools.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/calls-more-schools-oversight-wake-11803716 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4e4b8e23ad18ad9178ff721a4780d1b12d9b779a0c1f48901cc27e782d73153d.json |
[
"Dan Kay"
] | 2016-08-26T13:00:49 | null | 2016-08-26T10:40:18 | Software took advantage of three previously undisclosed weaknesses to take complete control of devices | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fuk-news%2Fapple-issues-global-ios-update-11803131.json | http://i1.liverpoolecho.co.uk/incoming/article11803127.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/iphone.jpg | en | null | Apple issues global IOS update after iPhone spyware alert | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Apple has issued a global update of its iOS mobile operating system after a botched attempt to break into the iPhone of an Arab activist using spyware.
The software took advantage of three previously undisclosed weaknesses in the iPhone to take complete control of the devices, according to reports by the San Francisco-based Lookout smartphone security company and internet watchdog group Citizen Lab.
Both reports pointed towards the NSO Group, an Israeli company with a reputation for flying under the radar, as the author of the spyware.
"The threat actor has never been caught before," said Mike Murrary, a researcher with Lookout, describing the program as "the most sophisticated spyware package we have seen in the market".
The reports outlined how an iPhone could be completely compromised with the tap of a finger. The weaknesses could allow hackers to take control of targeted iPhones to spy on calls and messages.
Apple said it fixed the vulnerability as soon as it heard about it.
In a statement which stopped short of acknowledging that the spyware was its own, the NSO Group said its mission was to provide "authorised governments with technology that helps them combat terror and crime".
The company said it had no knowledge of any particular incidents. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/apple-issues-global-ios-update-11803131 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/7a5802da8f416fb7a7154f2245d093d66252120b0ce3f61925f136535cf749a4.json |
[
"Alison Stacey"
] | 2016-08-31T14:48:50 | null | 2016-08-31T15:08:00 | New powers handed to police and council bosses | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fboy-racers-bikers-set-arrested-11824555.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article9970531.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS71127433.jpg | en | null | Boy racers and bikers set to be arrested in new Solihull crackdown | 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: 1,000 car cruisers at Tesco's Monkspath store last year
Boy racers and off-road bikers risk being arrested in Solihull as a new blanket ban on street racing comes into force.
The town has been plagued by problem bikers and car cruise meet-ups – including a mass gathering at the funeral of crash victim Chris ‘Stig’ Clarke earlier this year .
And last September, more than 1,000 people in 700 cars took over Tesco car park in Monkspath in one of the biggest boy racer events ever seen in the Midlands .
The new High Court injunction comes into force from Thursday, September 1 and means drivers and passengers taking part in cruises or bike races could be arrested and jailed.
Solihull Council said residents had put up with growing problems for a decade.
Coun Tony Dicicco said: “Car-cruising is not some harmless pastime as some of its supposedly-responsible proponents suggest.
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“The events are blighting the lives of many or our residents, causing damage to businesses and they usually result in the council or landowners having to clean up the mess spectators leave.
“They also take up valuable police time that could be used keeping our communities safe.
“Solihull has said enough is enough and now we have to legal powers to make it stick.
Boyracers at Tesco in Monkspath
“This injunction will allow us to deal with our car-cruising and motor bike issues in a much more straightforward way.
“Now it is banned, anyone taking part, promoting or watching a car-cruising event or racing or driving motor cycles is in contempt of court.
“It sends a clear message to the car-cruisers: don’t come to Solihull if you want to stay out of prison.
Biker does wheelie outside church at funeral of Chris 'Stig' Clarke
“And to motorcyclists and those with quad bikes, to use them responsibly.”
Previously, council and police officers have only been able to deal with individual acts of dangerous driving and yob behaviour etc, meaning they found it difficult to act against large groups. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/boy-racers-bikers-set-arrested-11824555 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/c872fa3b5db567bee86f784702104145f8d1698e5413cc7e142720a6373e24ba.json |
[
"Darren Lewis"
] | 2016-08-30T22:47:10 | null | 2016-08-30T22:58:04 | Baggies are finally set to sell the striker and Pulis has outlined a big-money move for his replacement | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-transfer-news-albion-11821421.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article9866681.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS70109028.jpg | en | null | West Brom transfer news: Albion eyeing club-record £32million Odion Ighalo swoop with Saido Berahino funds | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Odion Ighalo of Watford and Darren Fletcher of West Bromwich Albion compete for the ball
West Bromwich Albion want to sign Watford striker Odion Ighalo before the transfer window closes tomorrow and are willing to pay £32million to secure his services.
Stoke City are expected to finally complete the signing of Saido Berahino and Pulis plans to part-fund the ambitious swoop, reports Mirror Football.
The 27-year-old hit 15 goals during an impressive season with the Hornets last season after moving to Vicarage Road for £3m from Spanish side Granada in 2014.
So far, this season, he has scored once in four games — netting Watford’s consolation in their 2-1 League Cup defeat at home to third-tier Gillingham.
Ighalo has been targeted by Pulis as an alternative to West Ham striker Diafra Sakho after he was forced to pull the plug on that £16m move earlier this month.
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As confirmed by Hammers boss Slaven Bilic, Sakho failed a medical and is back in London.
The Baggies tried for West Ham's Sakho but pulled the plug because of fitness concerns
But Pulis remains determined to bring in another frontman before the window closes.
Watford missed out on a small fortune last month after being forced to reject a £38m offer from Chinese side Shanghai SIPG.
Diafra Sakho of West Ham United
Ighalo went on to sign a new deal, but club chiefs were left frustrated because they had been keen to take the money only for the player to refuse to go.
However, Watford could now be prepared to part with him after landing 27-year-old Argentine Roberto Pereyra, who scored on his debut against Arsenal last weekend, from Juventus for £11m. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-transfer-news-albion-11821421 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/2a5c1625d2a1ddc2ffcd94c85a8cf85326957c5e3eed44aca78021da66be303b.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T18:46:09 | null | 2016-08-26T19:00:00 | Everyone at Ashton Gate will come together to pay tribute to Will Falck with a minute's applause | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fhow-aston-villa-fans-pay-11806784.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11767048.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Will-Falck.jpg | en | null | This is how Aston Villa fans will pay tribute to one of their own against Bristol City | 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 fans will come together to pay tribute to one of their own, Will Falck, during the match with Bristol City tomorrow.
Will, 24, tragically lost his battle with cancer last Tuesday and will be remembered with a minute's applause in the 24th minute.
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.
Despite not being from the area, Will was an avid supporter and attended both home and away games, with his dying wish being for his brother to buy tickets for tomorrow's trip to Bristol.
Stiliyan Petrov with dying Aston Villa fan Will Falck
George and other close friends and family will all be in attendance tomorrow to witness Villa and Bristol City fans come together to remember a truly inspirational human being. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/how-aston-villa-fans-pay-11806784 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/894fb585b75605322bebf6d91fd5f2b06805ce8c01201008d97d8dc0c728e0a5.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-31T14:49:31 | null | 2016-08-31T15:00:28 | Watch Gregg Evans give his verdict on Villa's ninth summer capture | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwhat-aston-villa-getting-deadline-11824574.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11821719.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Albert-Adomah.jpg | en | null | What Aston Villa will be getting from deadline day signing Albert Adoma | 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 summer spending is almost complete after Albert Adomah arrived from Middlesbrough today.
The 28-year-old will provide much-needed competition in the wide right area and will bring with him a wealth of Championship football experience.
Adomah, a Ghana international who is now set to battle it out with fellow countryman Jordan Ayew for a starting berth, scored six goals for Boro last term as they won promotion to the Premier League.
In truth Tony Xia style, the Villa owner took to Twitter to confirm/drop a massive hint that the deadline day deal had been done.
But what will Villa be getting from their ninth signing of the summer?
Our man at Villa, Gregg Evans, explains in the video at the top of this piece. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/what-aston-villa-getting-deadline-11824574 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b0101614dfaa782500f40af59a491b252955be2aa356b4517d6a02cb2c5805cd.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-29T12:46:34 | null | 2016-08-29T11:55:44 | Joleon Lescott has joined AEK Athens | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fbirmingham-city-chief-takes-lighthearted-11814249.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11271987.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS88662546.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City chief takes lighthearted parting shot at Aston Villa defender | 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 director Panos Pavlakis has aimed a cheeky dig at departing Aston Villa defender Joleon Lescott.
The experienced defender today ended his Villa nightmare by completing a transfer to AEK Athens.
Pavlakis is a supporter of the Greek club and has offered Lescott a welcome - with a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Brummie's past misdemeanours.
He tweeted Lescott with the message: "Welcome to the biggest FC in Greece!! Remember to have ON that "screen lock" app. This is AEK!!!"
Lescott infamously posted a picture of a flash Mercedes sportscar on Twitter hours after Villa's history-making 6-0 home defeat to Liverpool last season. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/birmingham-city-chief-takes-lighthearted-11814249 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/da1d0b764064eace29cf450aed270e4c5f03a76b7dcc489d25db6caab60c4c89.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-26T12:55:13 | null | 2016-08-26T12:27:21 | Read the passionate message from this Villa defender who today also signed a new deal at the club | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Faston-villa-young-defender-vows-11804002.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11141151.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS86572625.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa: Young defender vows to show his worth after completing loan move | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Kevin Toner has joined Walsall on loan until January after penning a new two-yeal deal at Aston Villa .
As reported by the Birmingham Mail in May, the 20-year-old Irishman was offered an improved contract this summer , which he today signed.
Boss Roberto Di Matteo rates the centre-half highly but felt it was best for him to play regular football to aid his development.
A temporary switch to the Banks’s Stadium will increase his chances of featuring for Villa in the future and already he’s looking forward to showing what he’s made of.
“I’m not coming here just to make the numbers up. I want to do well. I want to help the team and help the boys,” said Toner.
“I want to get out and play football and when the gaffer said he wanted me to come here I was delighted.
“I’ve played here a few times with Villa U21s so I know the stadium as well which helps.”
Toner was almost released last season until an end-of-season charge saw him break into the first-team.
He made three senior appearances, impressing in each of them, for the claret and blues in the Premier League as they suffered relegation for the first time in almost 30 years.
A new deal was drawn up amid interest from other parties and Toner today agreed to the new terms. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-young-defender-vows-11804002 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/d2abea8cbed34d3609a6dfd91c651105c1ef03a8a0fbdaf43a190fe31298831e.json |
[
"Richard Vernalls"
] | 2016-08-30T18:46:47 | null | 2016-08-30T17:42:48 | Asif Aurangzaib found not guilty during trial over botched robbery in which business owner was shot dead | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fakhtar-javeed-murder-trial-man-11820662.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11305934.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS89384397.jpg | en | null | Akhtar Javeed murder trial: Man cleared of conspiracy to rob Digbeth warehouse | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A businessman has been cleared of conspiracy to rob a warehouse in which a company director was shot dead at point-blank range.
A jury was directed by a judge to find Asif Aurangzaib not guilty part-way through what was initially a trial of three men over the botched robbery of a fast food supplies warehouse in Birmingham on February 3.
Aurangzaib, of Leacroft Road in Derby, was cleared on Tuesday of any part in the armed raid by masked gunmen on the Direct Source 3 premises in the city's Digbeth area.
Akhtar Javeed, 56, who was shot dead
Judge Philip Parker told jurors he had decided there was "insufficient evidence" against the 25-year-old, and he was duly found not guilty of conspiring to rob the warehouse.
Two other men are still on trial accused of murdering warehouse business owner Akhtar Javeed, 56.
Suraj Mistry, who the Crown have said was one of two gunmen, and Lemar Wali, who is alleged to have been the getaway driver, deny murder, conspiracy to rob the warehouse and two counts each of possession of a pistol with intent to cause fear or violence.
A third man, Tahir Zarif of Osmaston Road in Derby, is said to have "played a central role" by the prosecution, with the Crown's barrister alleging it was he who shot Mr Javeed as he tried to flee the scene.
Joe Giddens/PA Wire The scene of the crime on Rea Street South
At the start of the Birmingham Crown Court trial earlier this month, the jury were told Zarif was believed to have fled to Pakistan.
Mistry, of Laundon Way in Leicester, and Zarif owned and ran a bodyshop in Derby called ATS Detailing and Wrap, while Wali, of Osmaston Park Road, Derby, knew both men.
Meanwhile, jurors have been told by the prosecution that "inside man" Sander van Aalten of Kyrwicks Lane, Birmingham, has already admitted conspiracy to rob the warehouse.
The trial continues. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/akhtar-javeed-murder-trial-man-11820662 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/ae2a19bd4f3024bccb9f3ea7df5b92ad139bff6d30afb01401e1291e69bb1a04.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:51 | null | 2016-08-26T11:49:06 | Dr Tony Xia's latest interactions have caused controversy with the owner using a quote from Chairman Mao to highlight the importance of fans | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fheres-how-dr-tony-xia-11803707.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11745077.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Dr-Tony-Xia.jpg | en | null | Here's how Dr Tony Xia used Chairman Mao to show appreciation of the fans | 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
Dr Tony Xia has bizarrely used a quotation from Chairman Mao to show the importance of Aston Villa's fans during their striker hunt.
The club have been trying to sign a striker for the entire window and look to be nearing a conclusion with Abel Hernandez and Enner Valencia at the top of the pile.
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The chairman was at the Olympic Stadium to watch West Ham's Valencia in action last night, but seemed to backtrack after some fans suggested they didn't want the Ecuadorian.
Watched a Europa game. If we go back, won't far2the Euro fields! You fans are just great! Thank u4 comments!#UTV! pic.twitter.com/bsU2jpFnNN — Dr. Tony Xia (@Dr_TonyXia) 25 August 2016
He proceeded to use a quote from Chairman Mao to underline the importance of the club's fans in what appeared to be a cheeky jibe at the club's current recruitment staff.
Quotation from Mao:We must have faith in the masses! Truly fans' viewpoints are even better than scouting reports! pic.twitter.com/nf4XJnFHAP — Dr. Tony Xia (@Dr_TonyXia) 25 August 2016
But the remark was met by anger from Villa fans who alluded to the hugely controversial political figure's contribution to China's death total throughout the 20th century, which is estimated to have been millions.
Xia then backtracked slightly, stating that his family had been affected by the actions of Chairman Mao.
My family suffered from the culture revolution era.Nothing with political issues but the quotation about masses. https://t.co/Z3wA6Mr7ym — Dr. Tony Xia (@Dr_TonyXia) 26 August 2016
The owner's comment was only made to emphasise upon the importance of the supporters in identifying transfer targets, but maybe he will think twice before using words from such a controversial source in future. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/heres-how-dr-tony-xia-11803707 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/151a60d3592d5e202b38de5fc1fd08a7fb3c1e7806f53c660c524fa3998e5f66.json |
[
"Timothyna Duncan"
] | 2016-08-31T06:46:53 | null | 2016-08-31T06:30:00 | Figures reveal 83 officers in the region's public sector prisons have left the force in the past year | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Ffrontline-prison-officers-west-midlands-11820799.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article8034879.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/prison-bars-2.jpg | en | null | Frontline prison officers in the West Midlands hit new low | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The number of frontline prison officers in the West Midlands has fallen drastically and levels of violence, suicide and self-injury are at the highest in prisons since recording practices began.
The Howard League for Penal Reform, a national charity, released figures which show that 83 officers in the public sector prisons in the West Midlands have left the force in the past year.
The West Midlands was among the top three regions that experienced a major fall in the number of prison officers at the front line, even though in 2014 the Ministry of Justice initiated a recruiting process after low numbers of these officers were reported that year.
The sharp decline of officers has caused safety in prisons to deteriorate significantly.
Andrew Neilson, the director of campaigns at the HLPR, said: “Reducing resources while allowing the prison population to grow unchecked has created a toxic cocktail of violence, death and human misery. “These figures show how reductions in staffing and problems in recruiting and retaining new staff are feeding the problems behind bars.
“The vast majority of those sent to prison will be released back to the community and so it matters to all of us what happens to people when they are sent to prison.
“Throwing someone into a raging torrent of violence, drugs and despair is not going to help that person steer away from crime.
“On the contrary, it will feed more crime and create yet more pressure on the failing prisons.”
Mark Fairhurst, a 48-year-old prison officer of 25 years, attributes the sharp decline to several factors including a low starting salary and increased violence in the prisons.
He said: “The main problem is that the starting salaries aren’t good enough, we haven’t had a pay raise in seven years….so you have people leaving within their first two years of working.
“We do not get any support when we try to defend themselves against violent prisoners.
“They [management] believe the criminals over the staff.
“We need the same level of protection as the police….all we have is a baton.”
A report from the Ministry of Justice show that 321 people died in prison in the past year, including 105 people who are thought to have taken their own lives, and 5,423 incidents of assault on prison officers were reported. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/frontline-prison-officers-west-midlands-11820799 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/eba9b54e8d508b27626ff59d6d628e0e2e7db1dbc89f74e9ce9b89e410979646.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-31T12:50:10 | null | 2016-08-31T12:38:26 | The Baggies are understood to have negotiated a £3 million deal for the defender | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-set-confirm-signing-11823327.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811944.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98138725.jpg | en | null | West Brom set to confirm signing of Watford right-back Allan Nyom | 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 are set to confirm the signing of Watford right-back Allan Nyom this afternoon.
The 28-year-old Cameroon international is expected to join for around £3million after agreeing personal terms.
He made 32 Premier League appearances under Quique Sanchez Flore last season.
But new boss Walter Mazzarri favours three at the back in a system not suited to Nyom.
Nyom, who joined Watford on a free transfer last summer, will provide competition for Craig Dawson, after Cristian Gamboa joined Celtic yesterday.
He becomes Albion's fourth signing of the summer - after Matt Phillips, Brendan Galloway and Nacer Chadli - and first of Transfer Deadline Day.
Irons remain in the fire and the Baggies might yet sign one or two more before the window shuts tonight. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-set-confirm-signing-11823327 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/b6d415adac7b99ee4123bee7776de13ca93940424038475039e36f4910f057e9.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-28T16:47:17 | null | 2016-08-28T17:07:57 | Fire crews rush to scene after pile-up on busy road | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Ftwo-hurt-after-major-crash-11812459.json | http://i1.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11812485.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Hagley-RoadJPG.jpg | en | null | Two hurt after major crash on Hagley Road | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The crash scene in Hagley Road.
Two men were taken to hospital following a pile-up on a busy commuter route.
A number of vehicles collided on Hagley Road , near to the Kings Head pub junction in Harborne , at 6.50pm on Saturday.
RTC incident on the Hagley Road, #Bearwood please avoid the area until it has been cleared. pic.twitter.com/0uEdSClsbD — Quinton B32 News (@QuintonB32News) August 27, 2016
Both men were taken to hospital by paramedics, one with a suspected back injury.
Three fire crews helped to clear the wreckage and made the scene safe.
Drivers were advised to avoid the area. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/two-hurt-after-major-crash-11812459 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/0f09d5d6a940a0d971ad698822f17260d07b45ee02c305c7584c1d412200ebbf.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-26T18:46:10 | null | 2016-08-26T19:00:00 | The devices are hidden in a cover and attached to the top of cash points, where they record as customers enter their PIN numbers | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Ftheres-new-cash-machine-scam-11799257.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11799135.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/mpspinnersouth.jpg | en | null | There's a new cash machine scam which uses iPods | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | An ATM scam using a iPod photographed by Sergeant Roni Doyle of Pinner South
Police are warning people to be vigilant while using cash machines after a new scam was exposed using iPods to steal customers’ bank details.
The devices are hidden in a cover and attached to the top of cash points, where they record as customers enter their PIN numbers.
A false card slot is also attached, retaining the customer’s credit or debit card, which is then used by the thieves to withdraw cash using the PIN number.
Scammers have been caught by police in North London and while none have been caught in the West Midlands, police say the trick is being used by an organised gang of criminals operating across the country to dupe unwitting customers out of huge sums.
MPSpinnersouth How ATM scammers hid the iPod away
One of the devices, which are attached overnight, was recently found on an ATM at Barclays the capital.
Sergeant Roni Doyle, the neighbourhood sergeant, revealed images of the scam on Twitter.
A spokesperson from West Midlands Police said he was not aware of this method being used here in our area but urged people to stay on their guard.
He added: “Always cover the key pad as you put enter your PIN as most of the time this will thwart any criminal’s attempts to clone your card.
“If you see anything suspicious report it the bank or shop and to the police.”
Tips to protect your card
West Midlands Police has six tips to protect your card when withdrawing cash from a cash machine:
Be wary if you see an ‘out of order’ notice on a cash point directing you to another machine.
Report any machines that appear to have a card stuck in the slot.
If you see anyone loitering around a cash point, go elsewhere.
When entering your PIN number, cover your hand so the details entered cannot be seen.
Try to use the cash machines inside the bank.
If you suspect the cash machine has been tampered with in any way, report it to the bank immediately.
There's a new ATM scam - here's how to keep hold of your cash | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/theres-new-cash-machine-scam-11799257 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/ce8b6c226330ae3b63599da6d8c2567f043b6aafdb7eaed6869cc22210262281.json |
[
"Roz Laws"
] | 2016-08-28T18:46:57 | null | 2016-08-28T18:10:41 | The rain held off for top acts including The Wonder Stuff and Scouting For Girls | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Fmusic-nightlife-news%2Fsunshine-smiles-solihull-summer-fest-11812639.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11812684.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98146829.jpg | en | null | Sunshine and smiles at Solihull Summer Fest Day Two | 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
The weather was much kinder to the Solihull Summer Fest today as the sun shone and yesterday’s downpours stayed away.
And that meant thousands of families could enjoy the dry second day of the first charity music festival in Tudor Grange Park.
Yesterday it was a case of plastic macs and umbrellas, but today it was out with the sun cream, shades and smiles.
The crowds enjoyed a great line-up of live music acts from noon, including Aidan and the Wild Fires, Mitchell Brunings, Oasis tribute band Oasish and The Hoosiers, fresh from Camper Calling at Ragley Hall.
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Then came Queen tribute act Mercury, followed by Finley Quaye.
Due to round off the night were The Wonder Stuff, Lucy Spraggan, Heather Small from M People and finally Scouting For Girls.
The festival has been hailed a major success and has raised money for Help Harry Help Others, a local cancer support charity.
It was founded by the remarkable Harry Moseley from Sheldon, who died of a brain tumour aged 11 after inspiring thousands with his selflessness and raising £750,000 to help find a cure. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/sunshine-smiles-solihull-summer-fest-11812639 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f0cbab8a7c46bef8f291616b321c9486b8834cfe5f1322069fd99579af4dd599.json |
[
"Andy Richardson"
] | 2016-08-28T18:46:27 | null | 2016-08-28T18:55:00 | Jailed father said he was only freed after ransom was paid | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2F10k-benefit-cheat-dad-claimed-11812797.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11812846.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/BashirJPG.jpg | en | null | £10k benefit cheat dad claimed he was kidnapped in Syria | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A dad has been jailed over a £10,800 benefits scam – after claiming he was kidnapped in Syria.
Bashir Souliman said he was snatched by rebels when he returned to his home town of Homs from Birmingham in 2014.
He said he planned to stay just four weeks in the war-ravaged country but was adbucted on January 30 and held until October 5.
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A ransom was paid for Souliman’s release but anti-fraud investigators had already been tipped off about his benefit claims, Birmingham Magistrates’ Court was told.
The father-of-two, formerly of Capstone Avenue, Hockley, admitted three offences and was jailed for 28 weeks.
David Devine, prosecuting on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions,said: “Mr Souliman says he planned to go to Syria for four weeks but was kidnapped on January 30, 2014 and held captive until October 5.
Bashir Souliman was jailed for 28 weeks.
“He then flew back to the UK on October 8.
“In the meantime the National Benefit Fraud Hotline had received a tip-off with regards to Mr Souliman.
“He was investigated and interviewed and benefits fraud charges were brought against him.”
Bashir said he was kidnapped as he visited his family in Homs.
Passing sentence, chairman of the bench Christine Speake told Souliman: “This was a deliberate defrauding of the public purse for the sum of over £10,000.
“We take fraud of this kind very seriously.
“We see no alternative but to jail you.”
Geraldine Toal, defending, said Souliman, who now lives in Durham, had been in Britain for 16 years.
He was made homeless when his home in Homs was bombed but his wife and children were in a refugee camp in Syria, the court heard.
Ms Toal said: “He returned to Syria to see his wife and children.
“His children had come over to the UK but couldn’t live without their mother so returned to the country.
“There are many issues in Syria and opposing factions and threats have been made to his family.
“He had been living in the UK for 16 years and had periods of work.
“He had been sending money back to his family in Syria.
“At this moment in time he isn’t claiming benefits but works in a pizza shop.”
Souliman pleaded guilty to failing to notify the Department for Work and Pensions of a change in circumstances in his Employment Support Allowance to the value of £3,417.08.
The charges relate to February 14 to October 8, 2014.
He also admitted fraudulently claining housing benefits between February 17 and October 12, 2014, to the value of £3,922.92.
He further pleaded guilty to fraudulently claiming child tax credits bet-ween March 14 and October 8 to the value of £3,461.53.
Souliman will be supervised in the community for a year after his release from prison. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/10k-benefit-cheat-dad-claimed-11812797 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/7715ccda6a4b0e749dc02db32bd82b7d09532f8a242b24843d28886005a7e3d3.json |
[
"Mike Lockley"
] | 2016-08-28T16:47:37 | null | 2016-08-28T16:06:35 | Jamal Thomas told his convictions were safe by senior judges | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Frapist-who-falsely-claimed-budding-11812116.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article10274326.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Jamal-Thomas.jpg | en | null | Rapist who falsely claimed he was budding Aston Villa star loses appeal | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | A sex predator who was exposed as a football fantasist has failed in a bid to have his rape convictions overturned.
Jamal Thomas boasted of being a former Aston Villa youth player until the Sunday Mercury revealed his claims were a tissue of lies.
Now the 25-year-old has lost an appeal against three rape convictions, all involving the same victim, which earned him a ten-year jail term last September.
Three Appeal Court judges said they were satisfied the convictions were safe.
Thomas, of Kings Norton , had previously hoodwinked non-league clubs into believing he was a top player trying to resume his career after injury.
Even jurors at his Birmingham Crown Court trial were told how he had played for England under-21s and Villa’s youth academy.
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And, before being jailed, he told the Mercury: “Villa did tell me I was good, and I think I was good enough to break into the first team.
“I was the best there.
“Now I’m with Evesham in the Evostik Southern League.
Marc Daniels Jamal Thomas posed as an ex-Aston Villa starlet.
“I find it too easy. I feel I should be playing above Evostik level.
"I need to be playing higher.”
He also claimed to have played for England under-18s alongside Arsenal’s Danny Welbeck, scoring a hat-trick against Spain in the 6-0 drubbing.
But not a single record of Thomas’ involvement with the national set-up exists.
The Mercury was also unable to find a single Villa Park individual who had heard of Thomas, despite his assertion that he was being groomed for stardom and was knocking on the first team’s door.
At non-league level, clubs tempted by his CV quickly lost interest after watching the player in action.
A spokesman for Evesham reserves said: “I saw his CV and thought he must be able to play a bit.
“He certainly looked the part with his Villa kit, and he had about ten pairs of boots.
“But once I saw him play I knew he wasn’t what he said he was.
“I was gobsmacked.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/rapist-who-falsely-claimed-budding-11812116 | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4f736dbdc7759f0b9dbea437d2354dcc6d67f0d7f7c9ee40bb9e707b8636e4de.json |
[
"Gregg Evans"
] | 2016-08-31T14:47:18 | null | 2016-08-31T14:28:08 | Villa could lose key players for up to five games in January | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Faston-villa-transfer-news-how-11824147.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article10325587.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS75123627.jpg | en | null | Aston Villa transfer news: How the African Cup of Nations could affect Villa's plans | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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It’s early days in this marathon of a season but already one particular sticky period has been highlighted for Aston Villa .
In the new year, the African Cup of Nations returns for a three-week period between January 17 and February 5 leaving Villa potentially light on numbers up front.
Assuming that most international managers want their squad assembled at least 10 days before the tournament starts, and that all of Villa’s African forwards are included, boss Roberto Di Matteo could be without four key players for as many as five games at a crucial stage of the Championship campaign.
Rudy Gestede (Benin) and Jordan Ayew (Ghana) are both regulars for their respective countries and are expected to be called-up for the tournament in Gabon.
Recent arrivals Jonathan Kodjia (Ivory Coast) and Albert Adomah (Ghana) could also feature if they find their form for the claret and blues in the coming months.
At this stage it’s not a major concern.
Villa have more pressing matters like getting themselves into a healthy position towards the top of the Championship before the Christmas period.
If they are up there fighting for promotion when the ACON starts, they could easily call in the help of a loan forward to address the shortage.
Di Matteo will be pleased to know that the transfer window opens up again during the tournament so Villa can then plan accordingly.
The games that are likely to be affected are Wolves (a), Preston (h), Bristol City (h), Brentford (a), Nottingham Forest (a). | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-how-11824147 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9026cc2f7668140af505e5ade231251976507b5f1dc1d60522d16077d5c38262.json |
[
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-30T16:48:27 | null | 2016-08-30T15:58:49 | Juan Carlos Menseguez, Thievy Bifouma and Sebastián Blanco are among the deadline day deals - but how much were you paying attention? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwest-brom-transfer-deadline-day-11819801.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article6867205.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Hull-v-WBA-10.jpg | en | null | West Brom transfer deadline day quiz: How well do you know the Albion's last-minute recruits? | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Brom are always on the hunt on the last day - but how much do you know about those last-minute purchases?
From established pros like Dean Kiely, Craig Dawson and Keith Andrews to some more out-there names like Juan Carlos Menseguez, Thievy Bifouma and Sebastián Blanco, the Baggies tend to keep you entertained on the last day.
That’s not to mention Nigerian strikers who find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time trying to get a move away from the club.
The transfer window has been a feature of English football for more than a decade, and looking back the Albion’s hit rate of bringing in top players in the final minutes is questionable.
There are some who’ve made it, but alongside Blanco, you can add the likes of Ryan Donk, Junichi Inamoto and Michal Danak as those who didn’t exactly offer value for money.
Let us know how you get on at the Birmingham Mail West Brom Facebook page once you’re done. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/west-brom-transfer-deadline-day-11819801 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/6091ae3283634d4edb18ce1bb0d22ddd1b93d49798807cf47ca0f59f183fbdfe.json |
[
"Birmingham Mail"
] | 2016-08-27T22:46:29 | null | 2016-08-27T22:15:21 | Marcus Bignot's men slip to eighth in the National League with defeat at the Silverlake Stadium | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Fmatch-reports%2Feastleigh-2-solihull-moors-0-11810433.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11810405.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Eastleigh-2-Solihull-Moors-0-31.jpg | en | null | Eastleigh 2 Solihull Moors 0: Two quickfire goals knock Moors out of their stride | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Two goals in seven minutes condemned Solihull Moors to defeat as Eastleigh produced a dominant second-half performance.
Having edged an evenly contested first half, Moors were out-gunned after the break as goals from defenders Ryan Cresswell and Reda Johnson ensured the Spitfires made a winning start under new manager Ronnie Moore.
But things could have been different if Marcus Bignot’s side had made the most of their chances during a first half performance which again highlighted how well Moors have adapted to life in the top tier of non-league football.
After absorbing an early spell of pressure from the hosts, Moors almost took the lead on 15 minutes.
The visitors were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box and Ryan Beswick’s curling effort was brilliantly turned around the post by keeper Ross Flitney.
Moors went even closer two minutes before the break as the impressive Omari Sterling-James drilled a powerful shot against the foot of the post with Flitney beaten.
Steve Feeney Action from Eastleigh 2 Solihull Moors 0
But after a chastening team talk from new manager Moore the home side moved through the gears after the break and pinned Moors back into their own half
Eastleigh’s Jake Howells curled a dipping shot narrowly over the bar before teeing up Andy Drury to flash another effort wide.
The pressure finally told on 58 minutes as a corner for the hosts was glanced into the net at the near post by the Spitfires’ skipper Cresswell.
Worse was to follow for Moors seven minutes later when Michael Green’s long throw was met by a towering header from Johnson that flew past helpless keeper Nathan Vaughan.
Eastleigh’s first victory since the opening day of the season could have been more emphatic but Vaughan reacted brilliantly to deny Ryan Bird before smothering another effort from Mikael Mandron.
Solihull: Vaughan, Niate, Fagbola, Daly, Gough (Moore 69), Moseley (Murombedzi 46), Byrne, Knights (Franklin 69), Sterling-James, Beswick, Brown. Subs not used: Asante, White.
Referee: Neil Hair
Attendance: 1,632 | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/eastleigh-2-solihull-moors-0-11810433 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/9e3d9d42df932fcb4881784fac4de16559122ed8bd3157c2357259d234e63c33.json |
[
"Sanjeeta Bains"
] | 2016-08-26T14:46:07 | null | 2016-08-26T15:28:07 | Brummie Ex On the Beach star gets over heartbreak with champagne and sushi at her favourite Birmingham restaurant | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fshowbiz-tv%2Flillie-lexi-gregg-parties-away-11805372.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11805284.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/restaurants-in-Birmingham.jpg | en | null | Lillie Lexi Gregg parties away heartbreak in Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Ex On The Beach star Lillie Lexie Gregg partied away any heartbreak in style with a night on the tiles in her home city.
Earlier this month she entered the Celebrity Big Brother house to confront love rat boyfriend Stephen Bear.
Lillie started dating Stephen - known as Bear after meeting him on MTV's Ex On The Beach earlier this year and the pair dated for four months before splitting when he started a romance with Chloe Khan on Celebrity Big Brother on Channel 4.
Simeon Thaw Lillie and her friend was papped by photographer leaving the Brum celebrity haunt
Brummie beauty Lillie was understandably heartbroken and in a shock twist, viewers saw her enter the Big Brother house to see Bear face to face, in a bid to get closure.
Bear could only stand there looking shocked – with doughnuts on his head as part of a task.
Lillie told him: “This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, I just needed to see you.
“You asked me to be there when you got home, I was supporting you 100 per cent. The embarrassment and humiliation I’ve had… this is all one big game to you, it’s a joke at my expense.”
Lillie and Bear in happier times
But after all her heartache Lillie enjoyed single life again when she hit her favourite restaurant in Birmingham - Nozomi Japanese restaurant with friend Georgia Laird.
The girls enjoyed champagne and cocktails before indulging in a selection of Japanese delicate including sushi and sashimi
Fashionista Lillie wore grey over knee boots, grey dress and baseball cap by cult label Twinzz
The Edgbaston born beauty first shot to fame when she stated dating Jersy Shore star Gary Beadle.
Lillie Lexie Gregg confronts Stephen Bear in the Celebrity Big Brother house
The pair split last November and since then Lilliie has established herself as a successful fashion designer, running the Lily Beau London fashion line.
Nozomi is fast becoming the place to celeb spot in Birmingham. Housed in the former Henry Wongs restaurant, Nozomi is a low lit 108 cover luxury restaurant, bar and courtyard, where attention to detail extends to the temperature of water you order to drink with your meal!
No wonder it's a VIP paradise!
Simeon Thaw Lillie Lexie Gregg outside Nozomi on Fleet Street
The Fleet Street restaurant’s opening night in May attracted the likes of Danielle Lloyd and footballers including Gabby Agbonlahor, Charles N’Zogbia and Saido Berahino. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/lillie-lexi-gregg-parties-away-11805372 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/5f6ef095426b9c9e0830cdc059030ee1ebc6195f02f63839bd88012bcb163fae.json |
[
"Brian Dick"
] | 2016-08-27T16:47:37 | null | 2016-08-27T17:26:13 | A defeat to Wolves followed by a hammering of Norwich - it's quite a difference! | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fbirmingham-citys-back-back-home-11809351.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11808904.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98074499.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City's back-to-back home games show how long a week in football can be | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham City proved just how much can change in a week of football.
This time seven days ago things seemed to be on a knife edge. Gary Rowett’s first incarnation of Birmingham appeared broken beyond repair.
Flaky at the back, toothless in front of goal, questions were being asked about the direction of the team under the manager who had brought them back from the brink.
Birmingham's Clayton Donaldson celebrates after scoring from a penalty to make it 2-0
But three goals, a clean sheet and a thoroughly professional dissection of well-fancied Norwich later and everything seems to be right.
Of course the truth lies between the two extremes.
Blues were never as bad as their collapse against Wolves suggested, nor are they going to go out and blow away all-comers for the rest of the season.
The season will remain hard work and they will do well to exceed what they have achieved in the last two seasons.
Birmingham's Jacques Maghoma and Norwich's Steven Whittaker
Goals will probably remain hard to come by - and Rowett’s defence will have to be at its best to keep opponents out.
But having seen how bad Birmingham can be last week, this week it’s a timely reminder of how good they can be.
Hopefully they’ll enjoy this one because they were certainly hauled over the coals last time out. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-citys-back-back-home-11809351 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8f505a0b3d0355d54df39d9533293f6da079250096d7c6fce68f38ef36edfa74.json |
[
"Jasbir Authi"
] | 2016-08-30T08:47:23 | null | 2016-08-30T08:58:21 | See the plane sat on the runway with a serious flat tyre! | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fpictures-show-burst-tyre-flybe-11816637.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11815589.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/bhr_bpo_290816flybe.jpg | en | null | Pictures show burst tyre on Flybe flight diverted to Birmingham Airport | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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A shocking video has emerged of a plane carrying 76 passengers being diverted to Birmingham Airport after it suffered a burst tyre after take-off.
The Flybe DHC8 flight 1274 from Amsterdam to Manchester was forced to make an emergency landing after passengers alerted cabin crew of the tyre.
Passenger Suhail Ahmed-Qadri, from Manchester, took a picture of the shredded tyre and posted on his Facebook page: “Currently Circling Over Birmingham As Our Aircraft Has Had A Burst Tyre On Take off From Amsterdam And Have Been Diverted To Birmingham Airport To Make An Emergency Landing!! Duas Plz...”
Mr Ahmed-Qadri later told the BBC that he and his fellow passengers felt “a big shudder” shortly after the plane took off.
He said: “We looked out of the window and could see the tyre of the plane had burst.
“It hadn’t gone back up into the undercarriage. We called over one of the cabin crew who couldn’t believe it. She informed the captain who made an announcement.
“We had to circle Birmingham Airport for about an hour to burn fuel before we could land,” he added.
@airlivenet Flybe plane surrounded by emergency services after blown tyre at Birmingham Airport
The airport was closed for around 30 minutes from 3.25pm as the aircraft came in to land. A video shows the moment the plane cautiously taxing on to the runway where flanked by waiting emergency vehicles.
LIVE: Birmingham inbds holding due emergency diversion of FlyBe DHC8 #BE1274 G-JECR AMS-MAN. Fire Svcs in attendance pic.twitter.com/DcCqi3e7Yz — Airport Webcams (@AirportWebcams) August 29, 2016
A Flybe spokesman confirmed the flight was diverted to Birmingham Airport following the report of a problem with one of the main wheels after take-off from Amsterdam.
He said: “The aircraft landed safely without incident and, as is normal in such circumstances, the airport put its emergency vehicles on standby.
“All 76 passengers disembarked as normal, were bussed to the terminal, from where they will be taken by coach to Manchester to complete their journey.
“Flybe apologises to passengers for any inconvenience experienced, but the safety of its passengers and crew is the airline’s number one priority at all times.”
No-one was injured but flights were delayed on the ground and in the air while safety checks were carried out. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/pictures-show-burst-tyre-flybe-11816637 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/8ebe981f12d6b124eb9e51c8eefa76d7ea41d6a6584b84b15e92e256c47382ea.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-29T14:46:35 | null | 2016-08-29T14:03:16 | Ben Foster has nothing but admiration for Sam Field's qualities, on and off the pitch | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fpromising-west-brom-youngster-popular-11814867.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11811820.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98135697.jpg | en | null | Promising West Brom youngster popular for all the right reasons | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | West Bromwich Albion 's most endearing midfield enforcer might need to toughen up, with Ben Foster suggesting the teenager is "almost too nice".
Foster reckons Sam Field is very well-liked by members of the senior squad he has gently eased his way into over recent months.
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And the 18-year-old furthered his popularity with fans with a classy and composed display on his first Premier League start in Sunday's 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough.
And while it's early days into his senior career with Albion, Field appears intent on proving that nice guys do not always finish last.
"Off the field he's a great lad," Foster said.
"He's super calm and composed.
"He's almost too nice.
"He's just a lovely kid.
"I heard his family are really nice and are local.
"He's got a great grounding to start with.
"You see players like that come through and you really wish it works out and for Sam that's definitely the case."
Field backed up his fine performance against Northampton Town in the EFL Cup last week with another midfield masterclass against Boro.
The youngster has joined up with former Albion coach Keith Downing's England Under 19s and must now be favourite to start in the friendlies against Holland and Belgium later this week.
"On Tuesday he was brilliant, exactly like Sunday," Foster said.
"He keeps it simple. That's so important for a young lad, don't get carried away with what the fans want, you don't have to necessarily play these killer balls all the time over the top and in behind teams.
"You've got to keep it simple, with the experience that you get of being more comfortable in that position and owning that position then you can start doing that.
"The fact he's starting Premier League games at 18 is absolutely amazing.
"You don't get to see it these days, especially from home grown players." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/promising-west-brom-youngster-popular-11814867 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/7c628e858259128760e70fc2cd2e8a5e8cd615b22d85a6f60f1831d547582b75.json |
[
"Birmingham Mail"
] | 2016-08-30T10:49:05 | null | 2016-08-30T10:37:27 | No5 Chambers on why they have given their support to | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Fother-sport%2Fbirmingham-sports-awards-2016-behind-11817210.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11447817.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Tony-McDaid-Practice-Director-No5-Chambers.jpg | en | null | Birmingham Sports Awards 2016: Behind every success story is dedicated manager or coach | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | The official countdown for the Birmingham Sports Awards has begun with just one month to go until Edgbaston Cricket Ground welcomes local sporting stars through its doors.
The thirteen award categories have been designed to showcase the best and brightest sporting achievements from professional sportswomen to amateur sportsmen and teams to managers/coaches – the latter of whom are the linchpin in the sporting world.
No5 Chambers is a successful and approachable barristers’ chambers, which is committed to working in partnership with its clients and delivering the highest standard of advocacy and service across the whole spectrum of the law.
No5 Chambers
No5 Chambers have acknowledged the key role managers/coaches play in the success of teams and individuals and so have given their support to the category that seeks to give something back to the people that give so much.
We spoke to Tony McDaid of No5 Birmingham to discover more about what attracted them to the sports awards.
Birmingham Sports Awards 2016: The search is on for Birmingham's best manager or coach
“No5 Chambers’ head office is placed in the heart of Birmingham’s business district, although being nationally and internationally recognised company, No5 always look to support local initiatives and businesses in the region.
“Providing legal support for both sports professionals and organisations No5 see the awards as a way to acknowledge those who are excelling in the sports world. “With the Olympics at the forefront of everyone’s attention the awards are a fantastic opportunity to continue this sporting theme in Birmingham for 2016.”
Emphasizing the essential role of a manager/coach Tony continued: “Behind every successful sporting team and individual there is a hardworking dedicated manager or coach.
“It is only through this person’s passion and dedication to their chosen sport that both new talent is nurtured and able to grow and well established professionals are assisted in achieving success.
“We saw this category as a fantastic opportunity in order to recognise their hard work.”
Tony continued by detailing how and why Birmingham provides a great backdrop for sportspeople to succeed in.
“With a rich history in cultivating sports stars, a strong rivalry between the cities three football clubs and over 10 Olympians from Birmingham and the surrounding area competing this year in Rio, sport plays a pivotal role in city life.
“We are seeing more and more home grown talent coming through both the university and academy programs but also on a non-professional level there are countless opportunities for the public to get involved in sport in Birmingham.”
He concluded by drawing parallels between sporting endeavour and the business world.
“No5 Chambers are one of the largest barristers Chambers in the UK and their success can be accredited to the commitment and determination displayed by both the barristers and also the staff who support them to be one of the best chambers in the UK.
“The same can be said in sport, be that your average person training for a 10k charity race or your Olympian training for their debut, only through the commitment and determination of the athlete, the coach, the backroom staff or even the family and friends whose support can make a real sports star.”
Read more on the Birmingham Sports Awards here | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/other-sport/birmingham-sports-awards-2016-behind-11817210 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/077d5586db161072dd75fcc390db8f229db9def17ec4fe94185961baf8829b82.json |
[
"Tamlyn Jones"
] | 2016-08-31T04:47:13 | null | 2016-08-31T05:00:00 | Journalists' Charity's annual dinner will welcome BBC broadcaster to speak about his life and career meeting the world's most powerful figures | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Fradio-4-host-nick-robinson-11818313.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/article11818331.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Nick-Robinson.jpg | en | null | Radio 4 host Nick Robinson to speak at Birmingham charity dinner | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | One of the country's best-known broadcast journalists will be the guest of honour at the 2016 Journalists' Charity West Midlands celebrity lunch in Birmingham.
Nick Robinson, who presents Radio 4's Today programme, will talk about his life and work, including his run-ins with the world's most powerful leaders.
There will also be a chance for audience members to pose their own questions.
Mr Robinson's career spans three decades and he is the only journalist to have been political editor for both ITV and BBC. He recently recovered from a serious illness which threatened to end his career.
Mr Robinson said: "A healthy society needs journalists willing to provoke public debate and to ask awkward questions.
"Only a very few will ever get fame or fortune. The Journalists' Charity works for the rest and, therefore, for us all."
The charity has been staging celebrity lunches in Birmingham since 1993 and they have helped the area raise more than £500,000.
Previous speakers include Sir Michael Parkinson, Chris Tarrant, Sir Richard Branson and Kate Adie.
Chairman of the Midlands branch Derek Inman added: "All our speakers have given up their free time to join us in Birmingham for our fund-raising lunches.
"We are very grateful to Nick for agreeing to speak this year so we can maintain our proud record of bringing top class celebrities to the second city."
The charity provides financial help and advice for journalists and their dependents in times of difficulty as well as running its own care home and sheltered housing.
The lunch will be held at Aston Villa FC on Friday November 25 - tickets cost £50 and tables of ten are £475.
For further information and bookings see www.journalistscharity.org.uk or contact Laurie Upshon at laurie@upshon.com or Kate McMillan at katejmcmillan@aol.com. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/radio-4-host-nick-robinson-11818313 | en | 2016-08-31T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/09402caa598774a6f1d16deef7d33d5352eda6ba56abc838cccc9b957fd5d42e.json |
[
"Paul Suart"
] | 2016-08-29T10:47:24 | null | 2016-08-29T11:09:02 | Tony Pulis believes he can recoup the £4.75 million Albion spent on Callum McManaman | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ftransfer-news%2Fwest-brom-offer-up-overlooked-11813829.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11785421.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97746892.jpg | en | null | West Brom offer up overlooked winger to entice Magpies | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Callum McManaman gets away from Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson.
Newcastle United will turn their attention to West Bromwich Albion winger Callum McManaman if they fail to land Chelsea's Christian Atsu.
The Baggies are desperate to offload McManaman and have even offered the Magpies first refusal on the Scouser.
But Rafa Benitez will only move for McManaman if he cannot lure Atsu on loan.
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McManaman was Tony Pulis' first signing as Albion manager and cost £4.75 million when he joined from Wigan Athletic in January 2015.
But Pulis is no longer fan and is confident he can recoup all of McManaman's transfer.
"I expect McManaman to leave," Pulis said after yesterday's 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough at the Hawthorns.
"We'll get our money back on him."
QPR are also thought to be monitoring the situation with McManaman, who has failed to score in any of the 25 games he has played since joining Albion.
West Bromwich Albion v Fulham - Cristian Gamboa
Cristian Gamboa, another fringe player Pulis is keen to move on, might also be nearing the exit.
Scottish champions Celtic have completed background checks on the 26-year-old's character.
And Brendan Rodgers is reportedly readying a bid in the region of £1 million for the Costa Rica international who has barely featured under Pulis. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-brom-offer-up-overlooked-11813829 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/faf57e5ea469fa0e9faed55fabb0223ad301c7f44bffaeb3cc2ca61f00d70c03.json |
[
"Ed Walker",
"Graeme Brown"
] | 2016-08-30T16:47:27 | null | 2016-08-30T16:31:29 | Fans relentlessly teased the England star after spotting that he appeared a fan of an X-rated adult website on social media. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fuk-news%2Fwayne-rooney-explains-away-liking-11820115.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article9163737.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Wayne-Rooney.jpg | en | null | Wayne Rooney explains away 'liking' X-rated porn page on Twitter | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | England captain Wayne Rooney has explained away ‘liking’ a series of porn videos on Twitter as a slip of the thumb.
Eagle-eyed Twitter followers noticed the the Manchester United star after had become a fan of an X-rated adult website on social media.
By hitting ‘like’ the married 30-year-old star appeared to endorse the page – the snappily-titled Daily Sex Videos – which came as something of a shock to his nearly 14 million followers.
However, a representative of England’s top goalscorer said that the married dad of three accidentally pressed the button ‘liking’ the post and it was an innocent slip-up.
A spokesman for Rooney told Mirror Online : “He was clearing unwanted items from his Twitter feed when he accidentally pressed ‘like’ instead of ‘delete’ on this one.”
The explicit channel shows hardcore porn videos in its news feed.
Twitter users bombarded Rooney’s wife Coleen, also 30, with messages alerting her to his ‘liking’ the X-rated page.
This morning the saucy site appeared to have been removed from Wayne Rooney’s list of ‘likes’. declared’ himself a ‘fan’ of an X-rated adult website’s channel by ‘liking’ it on social media. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/wayne-rooney-explains-away-liking-11820115 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/3d3fc243c282cc8ffd49cd8212a6430486aca894f06d0b1becb3bff2f59af4ab.json |
[
"Luke Beardsworth"
] | 2016-08-30T16:47:07 | null | 2016-08-30T16:42:43 | You can't help but laugh when reading some of these names | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fmidlands-news%2Frudest-place-names-birmingham-11820078.json | http://i3.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article10956591.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS46570450.jpg | en | null | These are the rudest place names in Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Call us childish, but we can't resist a giggle at some rude road names or places.
We're all aware of Bell End and Cock Hill Lane but our video shows some of the names from the area that you might not have seen yet.
Of course, we're not the only ones to struggle with such names.
Poor Amy Stubbs was given the task of going through the funniest - and rudest road names in Britain on Heart FM's breakfast show with Ed James and Rachel New.
Needless to say, she struggled at little bit.
Living in a street with an unfortunate title isn't just about giggles - it can have an impact on house prices.
The survey by statistics expert Dr Geoff Ellis found that while risqué road names like The Knob and Cock-A-Dobby raise a titter, the 22% difference in price compared with a sensibly named street a stone’s throw away is no laughing matter.
Still, let us know which ones you like best in the comments below. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/rudest-place-names-birmingham-11820078 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/81516fff8e73cdd9a2d25a3e701be665cd6975f08e31e327ae445bd5d622a386.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T12:49:31 | null | 2016-08-26T13:14:12 | Reports in Italy have suggested that the Atlanta striker could be on his way to Molineux | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fwolves-rumour-walter-zenga-verge-11804379.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11721712.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS96452655.jpg | en | null | Wolves rumour: Walter Zenga on the verge of adding Italian striker | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Wolves head coach Walter Zenga looks likely to add another forward to his ranks in the form of Atlanta's Chile Mauricio Pinilla.
Gianluca Dimarzio are reporting that Wolves are set to make Pinilla their latest summer capture.
Jeff Shi and his investment group bought Wolves last month from Steve Morgan and have ploughed endless amounts of money into the club to try and reach the Premier League.
Wolves rumour: Dutch striker heads to Molineux for transfer talks
Pinilla reportedly wants out of his current club with Wolves the only team willing to meet the Serie A side's demands for the player.
Zenga has targeted players from Europe so it would make sense for him to try and raid his home country once more.
If he does arrive, he will provide competition for current first choice forward Jon Dadi Bodvarsson. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wolves-rumour-walter-zenga-verge-11804379 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/53baf7d4d209c469105ed5effface52c681c6bd54085515ec384da43c824a942.json |
[
"Agency Staff"
] | 2016-08-30T14:47:16 | null | 2016-08-30T13:35:50 | A Transit police officer is being hailed as a hero after he pulled a man from railway tracks ahead of an oncoming train in New Jersey. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fuk-news%2Fman-pulled-train-tracks-seconds-11818532.json | http://i3.liverpoolecho.co.uk/incoming/article11818528.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/Clipboard-1.jpg | en | null | Man pulled from train tracks with seconds to spare captured on CCTV | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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A Transit police officer is being hailed as a hero after he pulled a man from railway tracks ahead of an oncoming train in New Jersey.
The officer, Victor Ortiz, followed the man who he saw getting off a train at Secaucus Junction as the man jumped on to the tracks.
Mr Ortiz said the man knelt down on to the tracks as a train was about half a mile away and kept saying "I just want to die".
He grabbed the man and was eventually able to pull him off the tracks just as the train was coming into the station.
NJ Transit officials say they could not be more proud of Mr Ortiz and hoped the incident reminds people what police officers do every day. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/man-pulled-train-tracks-seconds-11818532 | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/1173df011e925cb7ac2c46e2b954fb00d5e7a85315aaa52c14903b952c9e1f0d.json |
[
"Mike Lockley"
] | 2016-08-27T16:48:51 | null | 2016-08-27T17:00:00 | Lime Pickle in Castle Bromwich has launched the Devil Dish Challenge and those brave enough could win £100 if they eat it | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fwhats-on%2Ffood-drink-news%2Fworlds-hottest-curry-goes-sale-11800882.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/incoming/article11800827.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/lime-pickle.jpg | en | null | World's hottest curry goes on sale in Birmingham | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Please refresh this page in your browser to reload this live event video
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Customers at an Indian restaurant will be definitely shedding tears on their pilau when the world’s HOTTEST curry is unveiled.
But bosses at Birmingham’s Lime Pickle in Castle Bromwich seem to have korma’ed the market when it comes to furnace-strength curries.
And the Devil’s Dish is their most madrastic creation yet.
The Windleaves Road eatery is offering a £100 to diners who devour the molten dish.
The cash will go to a charity of the winner’s choice and they’ll also receive a £25 food voucher and commemorative t-shirt.
But be warned, the food challenge is for naan but the brave.
Yet 100 people have already signed up for the ordeal.
Staff from The Lime Pickle Indian Takeaway in Castle Bromwich who are challenging their customers to take on The Devil's Dish Challenge
Ingredients have been flown in from Mexico and Bangladesh and they include two of the world’s hottest chillis – ghost pepper and the inferno-strong ghost reaper.
The latter is, according to the Guinness Book of Records, the world’s hottest chilli.
Swallow a Reaper and the outcome could be grim.
The Lime Pickle Indian Takeaway in Castle Bromwich
Waiters who serve the Devil’s Dish will sport gas masks and those taking part have 15 minutes to clean their plates.
It’ll tikka someone with a very strong constitution to polish off the meal, particularly as the rules stipulate that milk – well-known for its ability to suppress the kick of hot curries – cannot be drunk.
“I’ve just had a taste and my lips are still stinging,” says Lime Pickle boss Jay Alum.
“It will be extremely hot, which is why we are asking people to sign a disclaimer because there can be side-effects.”
The Devil's Dish Challenge
The competition follows hot on the heels of a similar contest staged at a Staffordshire restaurant. The Dilshad, in Chadsmoor, Cannock, concocted the Crocodile Inferno, a curry spiced up to the point of sadism.
Despite being twice as hot as tear gas, the Crocodile was tamed by Swadlincote couple Wez and Caroline Cartwright. It’s not known if Wez and Caroline have signed up for Lime Pickle’s sizzling Sunday extravaganza. They may well still be on the toilet.
Customers who want to take part will need to call 0121 748 7625 or visit the eatery at 89 Windleaves Rd, Birmingham B36 0BT.
But be warned: pride often comes before a Phall. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/worlds-hottest-curry-goes-sale-11800882 | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/35697133629e1af7edc15279875017928916fd4bde62e1018c3e3fef90de1a01.json |
[
"Brian Dick"
] | 2016-08-26T12:51:08 | null | 2016-08-26T13:07:11 | All the team news ahead of Saturday's clash with Norwich City. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fbirmingham-city-youngster-jack-storer-11804265.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11780467.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97598875.jpg | en | null | Birmingham City youngster Jack Storer adds injury to insult | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Birmingham City's Jack Storer gets a red card for violent conduct towards Kortney Hause of Wolves
Gary Rowett revealed Jack Storer has suffered a ‘double whammy’ after reacting petulantly to last Saturday’s red card.
The young striker is not only suspended for this weekend’s game against Norwich - he actually hurt himself as he took out his frustrations stomping down the touchline at St Andrew’s.
Speaking to Tom Ross, Rowett declared the 18-year-old striker has more than his three game ban to contemplate at present.
The hugely promising teenager was dismissed for dipping his head into Kortney Hause’s face last weekend .
As a result both he and the crocked Stephen Gleeson will be out against the Canaries.
“Jack Storer has learned a very painful lesson because he has injured his foot when he booted the advertising hoarding and he will be out for the foreseeable future,” Rowett said.
“Obviously he wouldn’t be available anyway but again it’s a double whammy for him.
“And Glees is struggling He was on crutches yesterday just to take the wait off his foot. We are hoping that he might be OK next week.”
Rowett accepts criticism:
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Gleeson’s absence could mean a recall - at least on to the bench, for Reece Brown who was withdrawn from the Under 23s side yesterday.
Diego Fabbrini will also be hoping for a return to the first team - as will Maikel Kieftenbeld and Robert Tesche.
Blues could be set for a reunion with former strikers Cameron Jerome - who scored in the East Anglian derby last Sunday, and Kyle Lafferty, who was on target for Alex Neil’s men in the Capital One Cup in midweek. | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-youngster-jack-storer-11804265 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/4924af60832052b6115049ffb5652c927bb64b725dba3937770659729ec54b24.json |
[
"Alex Dicken"
] | 2016-08-26T12:59:32 | null | 2016-08-26T11:11:56 | The manager wants to bring in as many as five players before the window closes next week | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Fwest-brom-tony-pulis-reveals-11803395.json | http://i2.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11780194.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS97630349.jpg | en | null | West Brom: Tony Pulis reveals the number of signings he needs to make before the end of the transfer window | null | null | www.birminghammail.co.uk | Tony Pulis has emphasised his ambition to bring five new players to West Bromwich Albion before the transfer window closes, but has insisted he won't sign players just for the sake of it.
The manager has come under fire from fans after the shock EFL Cup exit to Northampton Town in the week and understands the need to urgently add to the squad.
He has only acquired Matt Phillips and Everton loanee Brendan Galloway so far and recognises the importance of adding to what looks a pretty light squad.
"We need those five players but they have to be the right players for us. We have brought players in like Jonny Evans and Darren Fletcher. I'm hoping to sign players of that quality again.
"I'm not going to bring players in who will not help this group. I'm not going to panic and bring a load of players in for the sake of it. They have to be good enough." | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/west-brom-tony-pulis-reveals-11803395 | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/53bf009ecbb263c7cd855cff3bb95a759b3d205b62b8126aedef0ce210237ad5.json |
[
"Mat Kendrick"
] | 2016-08-29T12:47:55 | null | 2016-08-29T13:23:35 | David Davis reveals what inspired the turnaround | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.birminghammail.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Ffootball-news%2Fexplained-what-prompted-birmingham-citys-11814703.json | http://i4.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article11809014.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200/JS98074604.jpg | en | null | Explained: What prompted Birmingham City's brilliant win over Norwich | 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
David Davis has revealed how Gary Rowett's team meetings got Birmingham City back on track.
Blues put their disappointing derby defeat to Wolves behind them to beat Norwich 3-0 at St Andrew's on Saturday.
And Davis explained how get-togethers with Rowett helped them return to winning ways in emphatic style.
“That’s how fast the Championship can change,” said Davis, who opened the scoring against the Canaries with a clinical header - his second goal of the season.
“As you can see, anyone can beat anyone on their day and it was ours.
David Davis celebrates after scoring to make it 1-0
“After last week we were all disappointed.
“We haven’t been as good at home so far this season, so we had a few meetings with ourselves, the gaffer and we thought we’ve got to put it right.
“We weren’t really troubled by Norwich and we pretty much looked in control.
“I think when we look back at it, Robert Tesche’s chance was over the line, so it could have been a bit more.
“But to win 3-0, against a good Norwich side is pleasing for us all.” | http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/explained-what-prompted-birmingham-citys-11814703 | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.birminghammail.co.uk/f6ea7711139e5593ddb9959410bd42d34ee55cc947f0cbd6972261d67198f5ac.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T00:48:08 | null | 2016-08-29T22:34:26 | Today, Juan Gabriel lives on in the hearts of Mexicans | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eldiariony.com%2F2016%2F08%2F29%2Fa-legacy-for-eternity%2F.json | http://cdn.impremedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/636080900468071792w.jpg | es | null | A Legacy For Eternity | null | null | www.eldiariony.com | Today, Juan Gabriel lives on in the hearts of Mexicans
The Mexican people is in mourning. With the passing of singer and songwriter Juan Gabriel, Mexicans have lost a figure that surpassed the limits of popular music and was able to reach the hearts of the people. He put a slice of romance in the lives of millions, and because of that today he shares a space among immortals that only the greatest can reach, like Pedro Infante, Jose Alfredo Jimenez and Agustín Lara.
Juan Gabriel’s talent was felt in Spanish-language popular music for decades, be it in his innumerable hits or the hundreds and hundreds of covers by other performers. He put a soundtrack for the romantic bliss of generations of Latin American couples, as well as for the pain of failure and betrayal.
His humble origins and the difficult moments in his youth built the modest person behind the scenes who never forgot where he came from, and who generously gave back through his philanthropy. This authenticity reached the hearts of Mexicans.
His social impact was also significant. He never liked to talk about his private life or his lovers. There was never a shortage of cruel jokes about him for being gay, as it was to be expected in such a macho society as Mexico’s. But the same people who laughed at Juan Gabriel’s mannerisms was also part of his adoring audience. His talent earned him popular respect and opened a path for those with different sexual preferences.
This side of the border, he will be remembered for his passionate shows, for the way in which he gave himself in every song, and for the audience’s adoration. But Juan Gabriel also gave comfort to the Mexican immigrants in their struggles in the U.S., be it in such songs as “Canción 187,” from 1995, or his support to the massive 2006 marches.
Today, Juan Gabriel lives on in the hearts of Mexicans, through his songs and compositions, in the feelings of lovers, and the remembrance of his performances. Juan Gabriel is no longer with us, but in reality he will never leave us. | http://www.eldiariony.com/2016/08/29/a-legacy-for-eternity/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.eldiariony.com/ffb23b878c320934590b9aec900f803159fabcaac4d8e3f1996bfb08d9ec20a7.json |
[] | 2016-08-31T00:48:02 | null | 2016-08-30T23:04:36 | The generalized failure of the authorities to deal with mental patients is a political issue more than a police issue. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eldiariony.com%2F2016%2F08%2F30%2Feditorial-violence-and-mental-health%2F.json | http://cdn.impremedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/01-06-2016_04_homeless-1024x1024.jpg | es | null | Editorial: Violence and Mental Health | null | null | www.eldiariony.com | The generalized failure of the authorities to deal with mental patients is a political issue more than a police issue.
Foto: Mariela Lombard / El Diario
The recent federal report on the Baltimore Police Department made unusual emphasis on the difficult relationship between police officers and people suffering from mental illness.
Inadequate use of violence during those encounters is the result of the agents’ lack of training, according to the report, but the generalized failure to deal with mental patients is a political issue more than a police issue.
One of the great problems is Congress’ inability to acknowledge the importance of the topic and to create concrete measures to help the nearly 44 million people in the U.S who suffer from some type of mental illness. Still, the discussion on what should be a health priority is contaminated by the divisive gun control debate that paralyzes everything.
This year, Congress had in its hands a measure favoring the treatment of mental patients through better organization and accessibility to services and with state subsidies, and ordered health insurers to cover mental health as much as they cover physical health. The project passed in the House of Representatives with extraordinary support, only to die in the Senate.
The problem is that the measure was the Republican response to the child massacre at the Sandy Hook school, when it defined that massacres are not caused by a mental patient’s easy access to war weapons – as argued by Democrats – but by mental illness itself.
The final blow to the bill was the amendment made by Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) that reinstated the right to carry a gun for mental patients after treatment. The intransigence to change the current law to favor of more access to weapons confirms that the priority was never mental health.
Mental illness is a national problem. A third of all homeless people suffer from it, as does a fairly large percentage of the people locked up in local state and federal facilities. The lack of treatment has a high financial and social cost when the options are the streets or prison.
Police officers have to deal with this population in tense situations. That is a reality for which agents need to be trained. The sad part is that – in the absence of political interest regarding mental patients – for many of them, their first social contact is with a police officer in a dark alley instead of a doctor. | http://www.eldiariony.com/2016/08/30/editorial-violence-and-mental-health/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.eldiariony.com/1548fcf79b664480a204bd02ff7adbc36cf2a4a4b65de753d2e4a85e9fc3e1b8.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-28T18:50:16 | null | 2016-08-28T23:50:00 | LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Sunday returned home after a three-day successful visit to Turkey. Speaking on his… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F28%2Fshehbaz-returns-after-3-day-successful-visit-to-turkey%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Shehbaz-Sharif.jpg | en | null | Shehbaz returns after 3-day successful visit to Turkey | null | null | www.jasarat.org | LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Sunday returned home after a three-day successful visit to Turkey.
Speaking on his return from Turkey, the chief minister said the warm-welcome accorded to him there, was an expression of love by the Government and people of Turkey with Pakistan and its people.
He said relations between the two countries would enhance due to his visit to Turkey, which was very useful.
Shehbaz Sharif said useful meetings had been held with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister Bin Ali Yildirim, Turk leadership and investors during his visit to Turkey. He said the Housing Development Administration Turkey (TOKI) had expressed interest in the construction of low-cost houses in Pakistan.
He said the Turkish government had assured full cooperation for further improvement in the health sector and new avenues of cooperation between Turkey and Pakistan had opened as a result of his visit.
He said assurance of cooperation by President Erdogan in every sector was welcomed. The credit of foiling coup attempt in the country went to President Erdogan and the people of Turkey. The coup’s failure was the success of public service of President Erdogan, he added.
The Chief Minister said the struggle made by the people of Turkey for saving democracy would be written in golden words.
Shehbaz Sharif said he visited Turkey on the special invitation of President Erdogan. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/28/shehbaz-returns-after-3-day-successful-visit-to-turkey/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/c590dad785b1326c82a89c3b95ac1e956c34142c29a70a754d23c7a90cd6c9f2.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T16:48:53 | null | 2016-08-26T21:48:00 | MANILA: Philippine security officials killed six members of militant group Abu Sayyaf on Friday including one involved in the kidnapping of… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F26%2Fphilippine-troops-kill-six-militants-military%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Philippine-troops.jpg | en | null | Philippine troops kill six militants: military | null | null | www.jasarat.org | MANILA: Philippine security officials killed six members of militant group Abu Sayyaf on Friday including one involved in the kidnapping of two Canadians who were beheaded in the troubled south, the military said.
A military spokesman said soldiers clashed with 100 members of notorious kidnap-for-ransom gang Abu Sayyaf as troops carried out President Rodrigo Duterte’s orders to “destroy” the militants.
In April and June, the group beheaded two Canadian tourists after ransom demands were not met. They were among four people kidnapped from the southern resort island of Samal last September.
“We were able to recover (the six militants’) bodies. One of them is a sub-group leader of the Abu Sayyaf who was involved in the Samal kidnapping,” regional military spokesman Major Filemon Tan told AFP.
Tan said 17 soldiers were wounded in the encounter as the military aims to track hostages including a Norwegian who was kidnapped with the Canadians along with a Filipina who was released in June.
The Abu Sayyaf is still holding a Dutch birdwatcher abducted in 2012 and Indonesian sailors kidnapped from the high seas in recent months, said Tan. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/26/philippine-troops-kill-six-militants-military/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/1b6600d68f1952b6a006ab6dd39a9058af659b28384637a7926b4ab2c13bf8a1.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-28T10:50:05 | null | 2016-08-28T15:50:00 | ISLAMABAD: Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has reminded political parties to submit statements of accounts for financial year, 2015-2016 by… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F28%2Fpolitical-parties-directed-to-file-assets-details-by-monday%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/ecp.jpg | en | null | Political Parties directed to file assets details by Monday | null | null | www.jasarat.org | ISLAMABAD: Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has reminded political parties to submit statements of accounts for financial year, 2015-2016 by August 29 (Monday) in line with the Article 13 of the Political Parties Order, 2002.
Under the Article 13 of the Political Parties Order, 2002 every political party shall submit to the Election Commission within sixty days from the close of each financial year, a consolidated statement of accounts of the party, duly audited by a Chartered Accountant their annual income and expenses, sources of funds and assets and liabilities.
The statement of accounts of the party is required to be accompanied by a certificate signed by the party leader stating that the party received no funds from any source prohibited under the Political Parties Order, 2002,and that the statement contains an accurate financial position of the party.
Parties which fail to submit their statement of accounts in accordance with the terms laid out in Section 13 will not be allowed to obtain an election symbol or to contest elections for the parliament and provincial assemblies.
It said prescribed printed forms are available free of cost in the Election Commission Secretariat, Islamabad and in the offices of provincial election commissioners, Punjab, Sindh, KP and Baluchistan.
The statements are required to be delivered to the ECP secretary in the Election Commission Secretariat, through an office-bearer of the party, duly authorized by the party leader. The statements received through post, fax, courier service or any other mode will not be entertained. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/28/political-parties-directed-to-file-assets-details-by-monday/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/2644491c24155d96fd2837f1d0e98000c41774c52a614e66b10ceb640ee090b6.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T14:51:19 | null | 2016-08-30T19:51:00 | ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned hearing of the suo-moto case regarding illegal transplantation of human organs till first… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F30%2Fsc-adjourns-suo-moto-case-regarding-illegal-transplantation-of-human-organs%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/SC1.jpg | en | null | SC adjourns suo-moto case regarding illegal transplantation of human organs | null | null | www.jasarat.org | ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned hearing of the suo-moto case regarding illegal transplantation of human organs till first week of October.
The division bench of the apex court comprising Chief Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali and Justice Qazi Faiz Essa heard the case and issued notices to respondents on application filed by Al-Syed Hospital Rawalpindi against law enforcing institutions for harassing hospital administration on the name of court orders.
The chief justice remarked that the court had not issued any order for taking action against anyone.
Advocate Aslam Khaki counsel for Al-Syed Hospital appeared before the court and alleged that police and other investigation agencies were harassing his client.
He said that police was harassing his client on the name of court orders.
He pleaded the court to issue orders for stoppage of investigation by police and other investigation institutions. On which the chief justice remarked that neither the court issued orders for investigation nor it would issue orders for stoppage of any investigation.
Chief Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali remarked that the court had sought report from the government over applications against alleged illegal transplantation of human organs in the country but we had not issued any order for investigation against anyone.
Later, the court on the application of Al-Syed Hospital issued notices to Shifa International Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Hospital Lahore and Dr. Adeeb Rizvi and adjourned hearing of the case till first week of October. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/30/sc-adjourns-suo-moto-case-regarding-illegal-transplantation-of-human-organs/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/5f0651a933523e6d2644bcf229cc6a9e4b3742fb52710cfbaf67a6d0e933fff0.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-28T14:50:19 | null | 2016-08-28T19:50:00 | ISLAMABAD: Interior Ministry on Sunday confirms arrest of main accused in Fahad Malik murder case. The arrest of main suspect,… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F28%2Fch-nisar-ali-khan-announces-to-award-rs-0-1-million-to-fia-personnel%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/chuhdry-nisar.jpg | en | null | Jasarat Newspaper English | null | null | www.jasarat.org | ISLAMABAD: Interior Ministry on Sunday confirms arrest of main accused in Fahad Malik murder case.
The arrest of main suspect, Raja Arshad in the Barrister Fahad Malik murder from Torkham, has been confirmed by Interior Ministry. Interior Minister Chuadhry Nisar Ali Khan has announced to give reward money of Rs. 0.1 million rupees to Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) personnel.
According to spokesman of Interior Ministry the main accused Raja Arshad, in the murder of barrister Fahad Malik was trying to run away from the country through Torkham border.
Raja Arshad was arrested from a check post near Torkham border while the accused has been handed over to political administration of Khyber Agency.
The spokesman said that the interior ministry had put the accused name on Exit Control List through which his arrest could be made.
The interior minister Chudhry Nisar Ali Khan has announced the award money of 0.1 million rupees as well as praising certificate for the FIA ASI Shafique Azam, who arrested the accused. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/28/ch-nisar-ali-khan-announces-to-award-rs-0-1-million-to-fia-personnel/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/13a4704d7f08dec99545f9c34ca02a8af81b97a2747374665fdaf6e053f04d22.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-30T04:51:11 | null | 2016-08-30T09:51:00 | BURTON-ON-TRENT: Wayne Rooney will remain England captain national team coach Sam Allardyce confirmed on Monday. The 30-year-old -- who was… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F30%2Frooney-remains-england-captain-allardyce%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Rooney.jpg | en | null | Rooney remains England captain: Allardyce | null | null | www.jasarat.org | BURTON-ON-TRENT: Wayne Rooney will remain England captain national team coach Sam Allardyce confirmed on Monday.
The 30-year-old — who was criticised over his performances when he skippered England at the Euro 2016 finals — should lead out England for the first time under Allardyce in Sunday’s match against Slovakia.
“Wayne has been an excellent captain for England and the manner in which he has fulfilled the role made it an easy decision for me to ask him to continue,” Allardyce told TheFA.com.
“Wayne’s record speaks for itself.He is the most senior member of the squad and he is hugely respected by his peers.
“All of these factors point towards him being the right choice to lead the team.” | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/30/rooney-remains-england-captain-allardyce/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/67149dca0a4d1121bbc37bf31a20ba405c91839412fc3c0e4b4926714ea1e213.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-30T16:51:37 | null | 2016-08-30T21:51:00 | LAHORE: Secretary General, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Liaqat Baloch, on Tuesday said nuclear capability was biggest power for security of Pakistan. He… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F30%2Fnuclear-capability-biggest-power-of-pakistan-liaqat-baloch%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Liaqat-Baloch-2-604x345.jpg | en | null | Nuclear capability biggest power of Pakistan: Liaqat Baloch | null | null | www.jasarat.org | LAHORE: Secretary General, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Liaqat Baloch, on Tuesday said nuclear capability was biggest power for security of Pakistan. He urged an independent and sovereign interior, foreign and economic policies were inevitable for the stability of the country.
Liaqat Baloch said there was strong need for uniting the masses to get rid of the corrupt rulers and system based on injustice and exploitation.
He was addressing gathering of the lawyers, political workers and other notables of Lahore’s NA-126 constituency.
While commenting over speculations regarding extension of Army Chief, Baloch said different writers and analysts spread confusion over the constitutional and legal procedure which mentioned appointment of new Army Chief after three years.
Baloch said it was an admitted fact that General Raheel Sharif has raised the image and respect of the Pakistani Armed Forces to new heights. He added confidence of the nation has been restored in its armed forces. He said institutions were always strengthened through implementation on the rules and regulations. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/30/nuclear-capability-biggest-power-of-pakistan-liaqat-baloch/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/258359f13ec5d28d2ea1f9991da57fec4c61fdd4f2b42bf86e7c593eafaee8f9.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T12:51:03 | null | 2016-08-29T17:51:00 | ISLAMABAD: Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf Monday vowed providing optimum facilities to both the private… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F29%2Fyousaf-vows-providing-optimum-facilities-to-private-govt-scheme-hujjaj%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Sardar-Muhammad-Yousaf.jpg | en | null | Yousaf vows providing optimum facilities to private, govt scheme hujjaj | null | null | www.jasarat.org | ISLAMABAD: Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf Monday vowed providing optimum facilities to both the private and government scheme hujjaj with dedication and determination.
Addressing the handing over ceremony of Hajj documents (Visa, Passports,etc) to a group of over 86 intending pilgrims of Private Hajj Scheme, he urged the private hujjaj to take benefit of government Hajj medical mission deployed in Saudi Arabia to serve hujjaj.
He asked private scheme hujjaj to submit their complaints to Hajj Complaint Cell established for the purpose.
Monitoring teams were also deployed to address the complaints of hujjaj forthwith.
He said the month long Pre Hajj flight operation would culminate on September, 5.
He said this year a total of 143,368 Pakistani Hujjaj would perform the sacred religious ceremony this year.A large number of pilgrims have already been reached Saudi Arabia.
Ministry was striving hard to provide facilities to intending pilgrims of both government and private scheme hujjaj.
Pakistani hujjaj were the ambassadors of the country in Saudi Arabia.
He asked private scheme hujjaj to obey the instructions of Saudi government and respect Saudi laws.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Melody Services, a private Hajj Group Organizer (HGO), Wajid Rasool said his group of private scheme hujjaj would leave for Saudi Arabia on September 4.
Arrangements have already been completed in this regard. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/29/yousaf-vows-providing-optimum-facilities-to-private-govt-scheme-hujjaj/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/06940a3cbe8759936bb9a1432f4730c639a3aaf463d01d3345abeda14e2d03e3.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-28T10:50:10 | null | 2016-08-28T15:50:00 | ISTANBUL: Kurdish militants on Saturday fired four rockets at the airport in the southeastern Turkish city of Diyarbakir, without causing… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F28%2Fairport-in-turkeys-southeast-hit-by-rocket-fire-report%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Turkey6.jpg | en | null | Jasarat Newspaper English | null | null | www.jasarat.org | ISTANBUL: Kurdish militants on Saturday fired four rockets at the airport in the southeastern Turkish city of Diyarbakir, without causing casualties, the Dogan news agency said.
The rockets landed in an empty area close to a police control post at the airport, causing explosions that were heard throughout the city and shattering windows.
Police were sent to the scene but there were no reports of either dead or wounded, the report said. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/28/airport-in-turkeys-southeast-hit-by-rocket-fire-report/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/3ddd2c7496af20f70156592c270eae908274b824864f95b590b5c547ef349b6b.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-29T12:50:45 | null | 2016-08-29T17:50:00 | QUETTA: Police have arrested a proclaimed offender involved in cases of robberies at Satellite town area of the provincial capital.… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F29%2Fproclaimed-offender-held-in-quetta%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Quetta.jpg | en | null | Proclaimed offender held in Quetta | null | null | www.jasarat.org | QUETTA: Police have arrested a proclaimed offender involved in cases of robberies at Satellite town area of the provincial capital.
Police sources said, on a tip off, a police party led by SHO Qadir Qambarani conducted raid at a place and apprehended the proclaimed offender namely Abdul Rasheed.
The police sources said he was involved in dacoits in the area.
Further investigation was underway. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/29/proclaimed-offender-held-in-quetta/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/494e8e4a57e240aa82faf401d6291733883c5862982f7f37703f7d99e89a159b.json |
[] | 2016-08-28T14:50:08 | null | 2016-08-28T19:50:00 | ISLAMABAD: United Business Group (UBG) of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has lauded the plan of… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F28%2Fubg-laudes-govt-plan-for-escalating-economic-growth-through-digitalization%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/fpcci1.jpg | en | null | Jasarat Newspaper English | null | null | www.jasarat.org | ISLAMABAD: United Business Group (UBG) of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has lauded the plan of government to escalate economic growth through digitalization for prosperity of the country.
The importance of internet cannot be overemphasized as it is important for a huge variety of reasons, and it affects and facilitates nearly every aspect of modern life, said Zubair Tufail, Secretary General UBG of FPCCI in a statement issued here Sunday. The internet, he said, was extremely important in many fields, from education and healthcare to business and government while its promotion in Pakistan was satisfactory.
Zubair Tufail said the government’s resolve to provide connectivity toun-served and under-served areas by the end of 2018 was also commendable as “we have witnessed a phenomenal increase in the ratio of broadband penetration from 3 percent to 24 percent in two years”.
Pakistan, he said, had become an important country as far as the freelancers in the IT was concerned but now additional efforts should be initiated to passing on the benefits of IT to the less privileged.
He said, under the Universal Service Fund, the government was spending billions of rupees to provide telecom and broadband facilities to un-served and under-served areas of the country but the services should be made more affordable for the poor sections of the society.
“Poor should get equal benefit of the technological advancement with special focus on women empowerment in the remote areas”, he demanded.
He lauded the efforts of the government which had countered the menace of grey traffic to bring back the white traffic to over 1.6 billion minutes from less than 400 million minutes.
A study suggests that 71 percent of the world’s population would be using mobile internet by 2019, he informed. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/28/ubg-laudes-govt-plan-for-escalating-economic-growth-through-digitalization/ | en | 2016-08-28T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/3ce064cc6a6042239b654cd07f8418fca7429b9b1a2fa8bed9f70f34902b056c.json |
[
"News Desk"
] | 2016-08-27T10:49:19 | null | 2016-08-27T15:49:00 | Pakistan have won the toss and elected to bat first in second One Day International (ODI) being played at Lord’s… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F27%2Fpakistan-win-toss-opt-to-bat-against-england-5%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Toss.jpg | en | null | Pakistan win toss, opt to bat against England | null | null | www.jasarat.org | Pakistan have won the toss and elected to bat first in second One Day International (ODI) being played at Lord’s on Saturday.
The England captain Eoin Morgan said he would have bowled first anyway if he’d won the toss.
Pakistan are batting first at Lord’s and have made three changes. Yasir Shah, Hasan Ali and Sami Aslam are in place of Hafeez, Nawaz and Gul.
Azhar says Hafeez “is not fit” although there is some debate about whether that’s the case. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/27/pakistan-win-toss-opt-to-bat-against-england-5/ | en | 2016-08-27T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/1d00ea424669429d609d6f3f4cbe96cd88d2f70731cf71e73f4c57fa7f9b48e2.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T16:51:55 | null | 2016-08-30T21:51:00 | BUDAPEST: South Korean battery maker Samsung SDI said Tuesday it will build an electric car battery plant in Hungary as… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F30%2Fsamsung-to-build-electric-car-battery-plant-in-hungary%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Samsung-Logo.jpg | en | null | Samsung to build electric car battery plant in Hungary | null | null | www.jasarat.org | BUDAPEST: South Korean battery maker Samsung SDI said Tuesday it will build an electric car battery plant in Hungary as it expects “explosive growth” in the sales of electric vehicles on the continent.
The firm, an affiliate of the world’s top smartphone maker Samsung Electronics, counts BMW, Volkswagen, Jaguar, and Land Rover among its European clients.
The company said it will invest 100 billion forints (325 million euros) in the construction of the plant in the small town of God, 25 kilometres (15 miles) north of the capital Budapest.
The factory is expected to be fully operational by 2018 and produce batteries to power 50,000 electric vehicles (EVs) a year, Samsung SDI vice-president Jung Se-woong said in a joint press statement with Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto in Budapest.
“In the near future, explosive growth in sales of electric vehicles is expected. This is why the company is making great efforts to boost its European manufacturing, it wants to strengthen its presence on the continent,” Jung said.
The factory will create 600 jobs, Szijjarto added.
Big car makers like BMW have made electric cars a strong focus of their development strategy.
Earlier this summer, Samsung SDI announced it would invest 408 million euros in the China’s leading electric car maker BYD, co-owend by Americain billionaire Warren Buffet. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/30/samsung-to-build-electric-car-battery-plant-in-hungary/ | en | 2016-08-30T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/f59c4a81ae07d531226fab035b0f9bbced8c14cb4779bf1d5a9f0b65abc47545.json |
[
"Monitoring Desk"
] | 2016-08-26T12:53:25 | null | 2016-08-26T17:53:00 | An Emirates plane has crash landed at Dubai international Airport after catching fire in mid-air. As per details, the airline… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jasarat.org%2F2016%2F08%2F03%2Femirates-airline-plane-crash-lands-at-dubai%2F.json | http://www.jasarat.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Plane-Crash-3.jpg | en | null | Jasarat Newspaper English | null | null | www.jasarat.org | An Emirates plane has crash landed at Dubai international Airport after catching fire in mid-air.
As per details, the airline conformed about the incident the occurred at Dubai Airport after reportedly catching fire in mid-air.
Photos on social media show smoke billowing from the aircraft.
The plane, which arrived at the airport from India, crash-landed, according to the Dubai government’s press office, as cited by Reuters.
Passengers were evacuated and there have so far been no reports of injuries. | http://www.jasarat.org/2016/08/03/emirates-airline-plane-crash-lands-at-dubai/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.jasarat.org/fd0ea37a3445caff3dc69d2eaeef6050e3d4305b86ba3a0f99b65c2bf277be9b.json |
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