The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

PROMOTING DIVERSITY FOR BIRMINGHAM COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2022

Get All Your Ents News in Street Cred Page 17

JANUARY 2021

Connecting Communities - Inspiring A New Generation Celebrating A Lifetime Of Achievement & More CENTRE PAGES

“No matter what life throws at you guys, trust us when we say,

LOVE WINS

T

he Duke and Duchess of Sussex released their first podcast, in which they reflect on 2020 with a string of celebrities and activists.

Singer Sir Elton John, presenter James Corden, author Matt Haig, tennis player Naomi Osaka and others feature on the first episode of Archewell Audio.

It is the first fruit of Prince Harry and Meghan's podcast deal with Spotify.

"No matter what life throws at you guys, trust us when we say, love wins," Meghan told listeners.

The couple do not directly discuss

their personal experiences of 2020, which started with them announcing they would step back as "senior" royals, before moving to the US. Instead, Meghan explains that they decided to enlist "a few friends and a lot of other folks" who "we admire, and get their thoughts on what they learned from 2020".

Continued on Page 11

WISHING ALL OUR READERS A VERY

2021

AND ALL THE BEST FOR

Page 2 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

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he year 2020 will be remembered because of a number of events which made global news headlines: the refugee crises in Afghanistan, Myanmar, South Sudan, Syria and Venezuela; global conflicts in Afghanistan, Yemen, as well as the Armenian and Azerbaijani conflicts; natural disaster such as wildfires in Australia and the USA, not to mention storms and floods in diverse countries.

However, there were three standout global events which had, and may continue to have, serious repercussions on our lives in the UK for the rest of this year.

Although everyone probably has different suggestions for their three most popular newsworthy items of 2020, not many would disagree with three issues singled out here for discussion.

The first of these was the Brexit negotiations. The second was the Covid-19 pandemic and the third was the Black Lives Matter demonstrations primarily in the USA but also in other parts of the world as well.

These three events not only dominated discussions at government levels, but also fueled heated debates between family members and friends.

Looking back at 2020, therefore, we can either regard this as a year to forget, or see these three events of last year, as opportunities for us to learn from and move forward.

At the start of 2020 the main news item which dominated the UK government agenda was how to get Brexit done.

The same central question is, can we now move from talks about Brexit deals and negotiations, to a new existence outside the EU? The year 2020 could be regarded as a beginning of a turning point. It started, from a UK perspective, with all eyes on Brussels and Westminster as ministers sought to finalise a workable deal which would satisfy most people on both sides.

From 2016 when the UK voted in a referendum to leave the European Union (EU) there have been some degree of uncertainty over the manner in which Britain should leave.

As of the time of writing this article (middle of December 2020), despite at least two years of negotiations, both the UK and the EU are still locked in

THE YEAR 2020 ONE TO FORGET, OR A VIEW OF BETTER THINGS TO COME?

matches.

In the USA we have seen flags and statues being removed because of their past associations with slavery and racism.

What is important, however, is not the nature of symbolic acts, but the nature of long term meaningful changes in policies and attitudes.

The three big issues of Brexit, covid-19 and the Black Lives Matter protests, demonstrate some of the difficulties and negativities during 2020, but at the same time they also present opportunities for all of us to look forward with some degree of optimism for 2012.

So, although 2020 might be remembered as the year to forget, there is no need for 2021 to to be the same.

discussions over a Brexit deal.

One thing seems certain, some kind of new arrangement (a deal or no deal) should happen in January 2021. Since we cannot go back, it is now time to look forward to a new future relation with the EU. At the start of 2020 very few people in the UK were aware or even concerned about covid-19.

By the end of the year, following two lock downs, almost 70,000 deaths and a cancellation of Christmas, this pandemic has changed many aspects of our lives.

Back in March 2020, many people probably assumed that within months normality would be resumed.

Yet, by the end of year, the wearing of masks, physical distancing, frequent washing of hands, and the observing of oneway systems in many shops and other public places, have become part of regular existence.

For many, 2020 was a year to forget. This was a year when the pandemic resulted in hundreds and thousands of deaths in many countries.

At least 2021 appears to be bringing some hope in the form of vaccines for the virus. Even with this intervention, however, some people are sceptical and

have decided not to take the vaccine.

If the majority of people in the UK choose to take it, we might head towards herd immunity by the end of 2021 which should result in a significant decrease in infection rates and deaths. Above all, it might result in a return to some degree of normality.

Sandwiched between the news pertaining to the Brexit negotiations and the covid-19 pandemic, was the months of demonstrations in the USA, parts of the UK and elsewhere, associated with the Black Lives Matter movement.

These demonstrations not only highlighted the extent of racial injustice and inequality, but resulted in a few symbolic acts and initiatives.

For example, a number of corporate bodies and organisations have made statements about future changes they will incorporate to effect some change.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) have said they intend to make substantial sums of money available to look into programmes about race and diversity issues.

We have also seen professional footballers in England ‘taking the knee’ before the start of

Wade Lyn CBE Jamaica’s Honorary Consul Celebrating Community Leaders As We Look To 2021

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 3

NEWS

BIRMINGHAM DRUMMER GOGGIE IS THE FACE OF NEW CAMPAIGN A

music teacher has now become an advertising sensation after being used to head a national campaign to celebrate the work by key workers during the current pandemic.

Drummer Goggie, who is also a dance facilitator with Services For Education, is part of a nationwide advertising campaign, by Vaseline and celebrated photographer Rankin to applaud the nation’s key workers who have remained steadfast on the ‘frontline’ as the pandemic remains a worldwide problem.

Goggie, real name Robert Ifill, has been continuing his music teaching working alongside colleagues at Services For Education, the Birminghambased charity whose music service continues throughout the pandemic.

He was selected as one of three

key workers in the campaign which showcases the huge efforts made by the ‘special’ people who have gone above and beyond to help those in need.

Joined by Kaitlyn, an emergency call handler - who helped a firsttime father deliver his baby - and supermarket worker Katy, who worked through the night to ensure that much-needed food and necessities could accessed, Goggie, who developed his drumming and dance skills whilst living in the Caribbean and has worked at Services For Education since 2011, said: “This all comes from a chance conversation I had with someone who encouraged me to send a video of myself to the ad agency. And I was pleasantly shocked to see that I was considered and hugely surprised to be selected.”

Chief Executive of Services For Education, Sharon Bell, said: “Goggie represents all that our 242 staff represents. And, despite

the massive disruption to schools and teaching staff, they have continued to deliver more than 7,000 hours of online teaching in just 12 weeks, producing 450 new music training videos and moving all our training courses on-line.

“We are delighted that Goggie was selected to represent music teachers from across the UK who have worked so hard to deliver and keep children engaged and enthused.”

Services For Education teaches music to 38,000 Birmingham children, as it provides 28,000 musical instruments free of charge. Its School Support Service provides expert and professional training and development in 570 schools.

Featured on UK commercial TV, the ad campaign coincides with Vaseline’s 150th Anniversary which it highlights the role of hands in consumers’ daily lives and why it is more important to take care of them now than ever.

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Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

NEWS

£2m council fund to help celebrate 2022 CW Games A £2MILLION fund to help residents in all 69 of the city’s wards feel involved with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games is set for approval next week.

The Celebrating Communities Small Grants Funding Scheme, due before Cabinet members on December 15, is part of a wider £6million package assembled by the council to maximise the benefit and legacy of hosting the Games.

Grants will be available to run initiatives which deliver against one of three themes: Getting Active – encouraging communities to get out and get active by participating in sports and recreational activities.

Ready, Steady, Fun – delivering community projects to ensure a local area is Games ready Celebrating Culture – developing communityled cultural events and initiatives that encourage intergenerational activities.

A YOUTH AMBASSADOR OF ENTERPRISE CREATIVITY

by Dr Christopher Johnson

A

B CANEY GROCERS FRESH CARIBBEAN FRUIT AND VEG

s the global pandemic scythes through the human population, very little media attention has been given to under35s who are revolutionising the creative sector through technology innovation.

In Walsall, England, Preeti Kular professionally-trained lawyer cum radio presenter, is a trend-setter. Judges of the Annual UK Bhangra Awards conferred on her, the ‘Best Radio Presenter’ 2020.

She won from six other nominees from the likes of the BBC and other commercial radios vying also for this award. Bhangra is a rhythmic, popular music-type associated with the Punjabi diaspora from all over the world.

Some musicologists have contrasted this musical genre with the conceptual fusion of folklore and pure entertainment, Punjabi style.

Ambur Radio has been in the vanguard of public service broadcasting whilst buoying talent across cultures, ethnicity and the socio-economic divide.

Its founder, Priya Singh, is a female doyen of community radio in the West Midlands for nearly 30 years.

It is not surprising therefore,

that her daughter, Preeti Kular, is emulating the thrust of investing in the repository of local talent despite current obstacles.

According to the young radio presenter, “I have always worked behind the scenes of Ambur Radio, but since the lockdown, I really dedicated 100% towards my radio shows, by trying to bring some information and entertainment to the people during the pandemic.

I have worked with the Fire Service & Police departments, Local Councils, NHS. Along with hosting a Bhangra Countdown in attempt to expose upcoming artists.

In the last 10 months, community radio firms have lost nearly 80% of staff, a hollowing of advertising revenue and reduced ‘physical’ operations, in adherence to COVID regulations.

Such drastic measures mean that owners, directors and staff have to optimise online or audio-visual technology to sell and distribute news products and services to increasing mass media audiences.

Take for example, Ambur Radio has a growing audience of approximately 300,000 and a rising online reach of 500,000 with Kular’s radio shows attracting reaches of 70,000.

A34 Improvement Scheme Update

SOHO ROAD/BOULTON ROAD, HANDSWORTH CALL FOR MORE INFO - 07835271725

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BIRMINGHAM City Council has announced further details on the A34 Perry Barr highways improvement scheme, including key dates for anyone who uses key transport routes in the area.

The scheme will create a new road layout to support the wider regeneration of Perry Barr; providing better access to public transport and improving facilities for cycling and walking.

Phase 2 will run from

January to May 2021 with major works due to take place in this phase including; the removal of the flyover, carriageway widening, and works to the new bridge at Birchfield Island.

The flyover’s removal has been provisionally set for the weekend of 5 - 8 February 2021.

The Council is also working alongside its partners to deliver a new railway station, a bus interchange with enhanced bus routes and

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Organisers of the UK Bhangra Awards must be commended for their seventhyear involvement in this event.

Like other awarding bodies, they’re demonstrating courage and pride in their clientele of followers and supporters who acknowledge the honour of distinction.

Nominations for 2020 consisted of 25 categories ranging from ‘Best DJ Roadshow’ and ‘Best Music Producer’ to ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’.

Such an impressive showpiece, bespeaks volumes of companies and civic organisations, working arduously to find practical solutions while endeavouring to initiate positive action at the same time, to unleash the vast potential and talent of young people in segments of the creative industry.

Preeti Kular represents a generation of highly-trained professionals with latent abilities who understand human complexities.

Despite young people’s expressions of an uncertain future, the young Radio Presenter/DJ is determined to create multi-alliance partnerships to harness wider listening-audiences’ information power by the utility of popular radio communications media.

a new Sprint bus priority corridor.

These improvements will support the wider £500 million programme of activity to transform Perry Barr and surrounding areas.

Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, Councillor Waseem Zaffar said: “These improvements are much needed, and I am confident that, once delivered, Perry Barr will become one of the most well-connected areas in Birmingham.

“However, these are major works and, although we are working to keep disruption to a minimum, it will have an impact on people’s travel arrangements. It’s really important that people start to prepare for the changes in advance.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 5

TROPICAL SUN A SUPPORTS UK FOOD BANKS

l Paul Harrison, Tropical Sun’s Head of Community and Tropical Sun Brand Manager SInan Jefferies with Birmingham Care Group,

s the saying goes, “hard times will always reveal true friends”, and never has this been more apparent than during the pandemic, where the likes of Birmingham Care Group, the New Testament Church of God and Peckham Pantry have gone above and beyond to ensure their communities remain fed and healthy.

Supported by World Foods pioneers Tropical Sun, these dedicated charities have been able to tailor their services to their ethnically diverse communities.

“As a company that offers food from upwards of 35 countries worldwide, we’ve been able to provide support that lets those in need continue eating the foods they’ve grown up with, helping to sustain their mental and physical health and transition to prosperity” said Paul Harrison, Tropical Sun’s Head of Community.

“We’re honoured that Dr. Beverly Lindsay and Dean Alexander reached out to us and we’re truly amazed by the work that so many of these unsung heroes do day in day out.”

For more information on Tropical Sun’s work in the community, head to w w w. Tr o p i c a l S u n F o o d s . c o m / Community.

NEWS

l Above: Paul Harrison, Tropical Sun’s Head of Community with Peckham Pantry staff. Below: Stacking the shelves at Peckham Pantry

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Page 6 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

UGANDAN ORPHANS SENT NEW KIT FOR CHRISTMAS

A

Ugandan orphanage's unlikely fascination with English football team AFC Bournemouth resulted in its children receiving thousands of pounds of sports kit in time for Christmas.

The children living in Bugembe were inspired by the club's rise through the leagues, and videos of them cheering on their team were posted on social media; prompting some of the Dorset club's fans, and captain Steve Cook, to send the orphanage football kit and equipment, with the fans looking to raise more funds online.

Bournemouth's climb from the bottom of League Two to spending five seasons in the Premier League captured imaginations around the world.

The children at Ibun Primary School, a community orphanage and football academy, were encouraged by their coach Joshua Kiizza to learn from those achievements.

He shot videos of the children chanting for Bournemouth and took photos of them gathered around a radio listening to their matches on BBC Radio Solent.

with Dr Christopher Johnson

A l The Ugandan orphans with their new AFC Bournemouth Kits Cherries fan Steve Butler spotted the posts on Twitter and started raising money to send football supplies to the orphanage. He said he wanted to do something to help the children in time for Christmas.

"I thought 'these children need some help - and hopefully we

can give them that' so I started a GoFundMe page that has raised just over £2,600." The equipment arrived in Uganda and Bournemouth captain Cook also sent club shirts, goalkeepers' gloves and training kits.

"The coaches at the orphanage

are obviously doing a really good job - the children out there always seem to be smiling in every picture," he said. "Hopefully we can get promotion (back to the Premier League) and see some more smiles."

NASA Scientist Uses Satellites To Boost Farming

U

gandan Catherine Nakalembe wanted to study sport science at university but she, instead, set on a path that led her to Nasa and winning a prestigious food research prize.

When she tried to explain to a farmer in north-eastern Uganda how her work using images taken from satellites relates to his small plot, he laughed.

While she uses the highresolution images in her pioneering work to help farmers and governments make better decisions, she still needs to get on the ground to sharpen up the data.

In other words, from space you cannot tell the difference between grass, maize and sorghum.

"I told the farmer that when I look at the data, I just see green.

I had printed a picture, which I showed him. He was then able to understand that… you need to see the farm physically to make those distinctions," the academic said.

An assistant professor at

Whither the global economy in 2021: An objective assessment

the University of Maryland's geographical sciences department in the USA, Dr Nakalembe uses the satellite data to study agriculture and weather patterns. The information is combined with data gathered on the ground about the crops and their condition to build a model that learns to recognise patterns to help make predictions.

It was this that won her the 2020 Africa Food Prize alongside Burkina Faso's Dr André Bationo for his work on fertiliser.

Also head of the Africa section of Nasa's food and agriculture programme, she explains: "From the air, you can see which area is built-up, bare, has vegetation or water.

"We are also able to tell what is cropland or what is forest.

Because we have a 30-year record of what cropland looks like, we can tell what is healthy, what isn't or which part has improved."

Using information gathered on the ground, she can then distinguish between crop types and create a map that shows

l Catherine Nakalembe whether the farms are thriving compared to the same crop elsewhere in that region. The model has been used in places like the US where mechanised farming takes place on an industrial scale.

She says: "The PhD program at Maryland allowed me to get

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into remote sensing, but most importantly, come and work in Uganda and around the continent."

The trailblazing researcher also mentors young women to encourage them to get into environmental sciences.

s the New Year (2021) looms, the challenges of 2020 are set to ‘mirror’ a word of ‘knownsunknowns’ (according to the current media science phraseology).

The ill-effects of the current pandemic have sent local, national and international economies, reeling.

Governments are bereft of new ideas with imaginative thinking being stultified by bureaucratic inclinations.

Millions of citizens are floundering due to the lack of capability and capacity initiative by state officials.

From all indications, there is a likelihood of this situation being prolonged as the virus mutates, adding more consternation to state officials and professional scientists.

No doubt, the main priority for governments, is to avoid any potential collapse or disintegration of their respective health care services.

During the last quarter of 2019 and the first quarter of 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned about the imminent dangers of government not responding well to the virus’ implications on national health and allied services.

Recommendations included public health campaigns to sensitise citizens about virus and its critical [initial] symptoms.

Review of clinical management systems.

Evaluation of epidemiolocal procedures. Consult with local bodies to harness consensual views, interests and solutions-based perspectives.

Epidemiologists are warning that a vaccine might not be a palliative cure as the virus affects each patient differently though in each case, symptoms are common.

Statistics on the state of ‘recovery patients’ are limited or non-existent and this is causing many to surmise, that no real scientific explanation can be attributed to the effects of the virus on infected

A

ward-wInnIng journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.

persons, altogether.

Former British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown’s intervention (on Radio 4, 20 December 2020) is worthy of reflection here. He lamented the state’s poor management of the pandemic and felt it demonstrated inherent structural weaknesses of ‘our democratic system’.

Local elected officials were excluded from central decision-making, but were expected to comply with regulations including restrictions, without questioning their legitimate efficacy.

Brown called for a postpandemic public enquiry and advised that citizen assemblies should be encouraged to participate actively in the current ‘trackand-trace’ system.

Politicians, health scientists, media pundits, faith groups and civic leaders, are yet to initiate a national discussion on the validity of sound nutrition to boost the immune system.

Advisedly, suffers of cardiovascular, respiratory, inflammatory and other unwell conditions, encouraged by their GPs to ‘pay attention to diet’.

Nevertheless, the soothsayers can’t truly predict realistic outcomes for the next 12 months although there are some realistic assumptions by emanating from reputable institutions. for instance, the World Bank reported (June 2020) that global government measures “have been successful in curbing the curve of the virus and reducing the overall death toll”.

This clearly meant that economic growth will be stunted, with glaring education and other sectoral equalities. With statistics on almost every sector failing ‘reliability tests’, little wonder citizens remain anxiety and concerned as to their future and those around them.

So, the question remains, what will the world economy look like in 2021?

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham)

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 7

NEWS

Let’s Talk

With Donald Campbell

l Mr Albert Jarrett, WW11 Veteran RAF, Mr Asterley Reginald Miller, WW11 Veteran RAF, Donald Campbell,Veteran RAF and Mr Paul Rose,VOWS Community Enterprise

WORLD WAR II VETERANS MEET AFTER 75 YEARS J amaican born Albert Jarrett, 96 and Asterley Reginald Miller, 92, followed similar paths as young men seeking to serve ‘Mother Country’ Britain while engaging in the adventures of another world far from home. It was a joy to behold the first meeting of these two World War II veterans.

Although separated by 4 years, both men enlisted in the Royal Air Force (RAF) aged 17, and then travelled to England to complete training at RAF Melksham, Wiltshire. Mr Jarrett stated that “as citizens of the commonwealth we were eager to help mother country and very

excited to experience life in another world”.

His tropical enthusiasm was soon tempered by the harsh English winter conditions which he recalled “came as a shock to the system”.

Both men agreed that the adventurous nature of youth and the excitement of the unknown meant that they faced each day as it came and got on with the job at hand.

Mr Jarrett joked that although he wasn’t much bigger than the rifle, he put all his effort in his training and became a sharp shooter.

Mr Jarrett and Mr Miller served on different Maintenance Bases in the RAF and recounted their

experiences as highly engaging and challenging.

Both men performed various support roles within the RAF machinery that contributed to its function as a coordinated fighting force.

After the War, both gentleman settled in Birmingham, England where they now serve as proud patriarchs to respective families, 5 generations deep.

Family members present were delighted to share in the special meeting of two veterans after so many decades.

The shared history of these two families, framed by this profound occasion, will undoubtedly raise the level of awareness of the selfless service

legacy established by these two gentlemen for generations to come.

The genesis of the meeting was to participate in the epic journey of a wonderful project called The Log Book Project.

In 2016 Mr Nicholas Devaux from St. Lucia began sending his late father, Cyril Devaux’s WWII fighter pilot’s logbook to veterans around the world, asking them to autograph it.

Four years and over 100 signatures on, the book stands as a living tribute to servicemen and women around the world who risked everything for the freedoms we enjoy today.

After learning of the nature and intent of this project, I readily agreed to engage with as many World War II veterans as possible, especially Caribbeans residing in the UK, to sign Devaux’s log book.

The log book is presently in the US, scheduled to arrive in the UK by the end of 2020. However a loose page from the book was expedited to UK to ensure that veterans, especially those not in the best of health, are able to sign.

This page was duly signed

by Mr Jarrett himself and Mr Miller’s granddaughter, Delorisa Banks on her grandfather’s behalf.

l Mr Jarrett signing the log book page.

The occasion was ably arranged and supported by Mr Paul Rose (VOWS Community Enterprise, representing Windrush Generation) a close family member of Mr Miller.

The palpable sense of pride displayed by the Miller and

Jarrett families is forever part of The Log Book Project as it continues its honourable mission of highlighting these incredible service stories thereby blending past with present and indeed the future.

l Mr Miller’s granddaughter Delorisa Banks aiding him to sign the log book page due him suffering from Alzheimers

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Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

NEWS

RIDE HAILING BUSINESS SPREADS CHRISTMAS CHEER

Tighter Restrictions Likely Says Chief F U R T H E R RESTRICTIONS are likely to be introduced in England to control the new variant of Covid-19, the UK's chief scientific adviser has said.

Sir Patrick Vallance said measures could "need to be increased in some places, in due course, not reduced".

London and large swathes of south-east England were placed in the highest tier four restrictions over the weekend.

Sir Patrick also predicted there would be spike in cases after an "inevitable period of mixing" over Christmas.

It comes as more than 40 countries including France, Spain, India and Hong Kong have banned UK flights because of concerns about the spread of the variant.

Speaking at a Downing Street briefing, he said he believed the variant would help cases

"spread more". Asked why tougher measures were not in place across the country following the introduction of the tier 4 level, Sir Patrick added: "The evidence on this virus is that it spreads easily.

It's more transmissible. We absolutely need to make sure we have the right level of restrictions in place." But he said there was no reason to think the new variant is more dangerous than the existing strain.

"The transmission is increased. We can't say exactly by how much, but it is clearly substantially increased, so it is more transmissible. Which is why we see it growing so fast and spreading to so many areas."

The government scrapped plans to relax rules at Christmas in those areas subject to tier 4 rules.

R

l Ayesha Rees, CEO of UVA UK with some of the donations

ide hailing business spreads Christmas cheer with toy and food donations to local Birmingham charities A Solihull-based business is spreading some much-needed Christmas cheer for those who need it most after donating £500 worth of toys and goodies ahead of the festive season to two Birmingham-based charities, Birmingham City Mission and Birmingham Irish.

UVA UK is set to launch its new app-based ride hailing service in Birmingham in early 2021 and has committed to lending a helping hand to local charities and community groups across the areas it operates.

As part of these plans, the company has pledged to donate 3% of its overall profits to charities in the UK. The delivery of the Christmas presents to Birmingham City Mission and Birmingham Irish marks the start of its long-term charitable commitments.

Each of the charities have received packages stuffed with

Christmas presents from UVA, which includes toys, chocolates and clothes.

Each set will also include an age-appropriate book to support the newly launched Marcus Rashford Book Club, which aims to give children from disadvantaged backgrounds the chance to embrace reading from a young age.

The curated packs, which have been tailored by gender and age range, will be gifted to children and families in the region who need them most and otherwise would not have gifts to open on Christmas morning.

Alongside the toy donation, UVA UK has also donated £180 worth of food to Smethwick Foodbank to support BBC WM’s Adrian Goldberg’s pledge to donate for every West Bromwich Albion goal. This is to ensure no family goes hungry and can enjoy a hearty Christmas dinner together during the festive period.

Ayesha Rees, CEO of UVA UK, said: “No one should go without, especially over Christmas. In a

challenging year, it’s vital to give back and support those in our community who need it most.

We hope that the donations make the festive period a little brighter for families across Birmingham.

“As a start-up business, we knew from the beginning that charity and community would be put at the heart of our operations.

“Working with organisations such as Birmingham City Mission, Birmingham Irish, Smethwick Food Bank and the The Trussell Trust, who are all doing amazing work for families across the region, marks the start of a long term commitment at UVA UK of giving back to our society and creating a positive impact in our communities.”

Trudy McGroarty at Birmingham Irish Association said: “More families than ever are experiencing financial worries this year.

“We are extremely grateful to companies like UVA who have donated to our toy appeal to make sure that every child has a new toy to open under their tree on Christmas Day this year.”

First nonstop flight from Nigeria lands in Jamaica JAMAICA welcomed the arrival of the first direct flight from Nigeria, opening up new tourism opportunities for the Caribbean destination.

Onboard, Nigeria Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, said Jamaica could be “the next big thing” for travellers from the African country. Around 140 passengers were on board the first flight, which touched down at Sangster International Airport.

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“We really expect to see tourism take off in a big way,” he said. “We believe that Jamaica is the next big thing for us as far as tourism is concerned.”

In turn, the Jamaican Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, lauded the historic arrival of the flight.

In stressing its significance, he said: “Historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and Jamaica date back to the days of slavery and many Jamaicans

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today have their ancestral roots in that African country.”

He added: “We have been working together to bring this to fruition for some time and I am pleased that we have opened yet another gateway, which provides scope for the added growth of our tourism sector and the forging of greater bonds between both countries.”

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 9

NEWS

LOST WW2 LETTER FINALLY REACHES DESTINATION AFTER 76 YEARS

A

lost World War Two letter discovered inside a book, has finally reached its destination after 76 years thanks to a nationwide campaign by World of Books Group, the UK’s largest retailer of used books and media.

The letter was written by a British soldier serving in Italy in the winter of 1944. At the time, Allied forces battled through the tough Italian Campaign in freezing conditions - a campaign that would claim the lives of around 70,000 allied soldiers by its conclusion.

It was in these difficult conditions that Lance Corporal

John Wheldon-Williams penned a heartfelt letter to High Wycombe schoolgirl, Pat Moore, thanking her for knitting supplies for anonymous troops. He himself had received a simple pair of mittens; a seemingly small gesture, but one that brought him comfort in difficult times. But Pat would never receive the letter. By the time it would have arrived at the correspondence address, she had moved on. 20 years later Pat passed away at just 36, never knowing just how much her act of kindness had meant to those on the receiving end.

Upon discovering the letter, World of Books Group launched a nationwide campaign to return

it to its rightful owner and was soon contacted by Lynn Cook from Surrey.

The campaign had been spotted by amateur historian Dave Thacker. Amazingly, despite the limited information publicised, Dave was able to use his skills to work out a connection between Lynn and Pat, and got in touch to let her know about World of Books’ find.

Lynn, Pat’s only surviving child, was just a young girl when her mother passed away. Although she has spent years researching her mother’s life story, she knew nothing of her kindness during the war until Dave got in touch. Lynn said: “I’m delighted to be reunited

w ith a piece of family history I knew nothing about. It’s incredibly moving to know how much my mum’s contribution to the war effort meant on a personal level.

I have early memories of watching my mother knit at home – it’s something she always enjoyed. And I remember her telling me stories of her writing to pen pals during the war. I suspect she snuck a little note in with the package in the hope a soldier would eventually reply. She would have been overjoyed with this, and I’ll treasure it forever.”

The incredible find prompted the pair to work together and discover

more about the letter.

As a team, they’ve discovered information about the soldier, John Wheldon-Williams, and the family he writes about. The soldier fortunately survived the war and returned to London, where he remained until he passed away in 1970. When tracking down John’s son Brian, who was eight years old when the letter was written, they discovered he grew into a successful stage actor. Under the name David Wheldon-Williams, he starred in a number of West End shows, including the original London production of Cabaret

alongside Judi Dench.

Brian sadly passed away in 2017, but they have now made contact with other relatives and given them a new piece of family history too.

Graham Bell, CEO of World of Books Group, said: “Over 75 million used books come through our business each year, and we occasionally come across forgotten personal items tucked away inside them.

“It’s surprisingly common for people to place memories inside books for safe keeping, whether it be family photographs or letters from loved ones.

“But this find was particularly poignant and we knew we had to do something to return it to its rightful owner. We’re delighted to have found Lynn and learn more about the incredible story behind the letter.”

As a circular economy business, we’re focused on finding used items new homes. In this case, it’s wonderful to bring something back full circle to where it truly belongs.”

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Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

NEWS

Graffiti clean-up teams blitz railway over Christmas SPECIALIST graffiti cleanup teams have been ridding the railway of unsightly vandalism between Euston, the Midlands and the North West this Christmas. Network Rail staff in the North West and Central region spent the holiday working to improve the look and feel of the railway for passengers and those who live beside it.

It supports Transport Secretary Grant Shapps’ recent commitment to remove graffiti as part of an extra £1m provided by the Government to clean vandalism hotspots. One of the jobs this Christmas involved cleaning graffitied walls and railway equipment at Digbeth in Birmingham.

Tim Shoveller, managing director for Network Rail’s North West and Central region, said: “It’s very frustrating money has to be spent undoing damage done by railway vandals.

It’s money which could be being spent making the railway better and improving passengers’ journeys.

“Graffiti makes the place look messy for neighbours and passengers. We want the railway to be a clean, welcoming environment for people who travel on it and live and work near it.

That’s why we’re declaring a war on graffiti.

“There’s a safety aspect here too. Graffiti vandals risk their lives trespassing on the railway.

It’s a seriously dangerous place to be. Our advice is to always stay off the tracks.” In recent weeks residents in Camden were sent postcards to show progress Network Rail teams there have made to clear graffiti on the approach to Euston station.

Just Eat’s Christmas Meal Appeal raises more than £600k l Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo, Maxine Tomlinson (the Great Niece of Alderman Egbert ‘Bert’ Carless OBE) and Cllr Waseem Zaffar MBE (Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Birmingham City Council) with a replica of the Bert Carless Way sign that will be installed on the new road in Perry Barr.

CITY STREET TO BE NAMED AFTER BIRMINGHAM’S FIRST BLACK COUNCILLOR

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new road within the Perry Barr Residential Scheme, in Birmingham, is to be named Bert Carless Way. Alderman Egbert ‘Bert’ Sylvester Carless, made history when he was elected as Birmingham’s first Black councillor in 1979. He was elected a Labour member for Aston ward and served again in 1998-2002 for Ladywood ward.

Mr Carless, who migrated to Birmingham from Jamaica when he was 21, was a well-respected member of the community and served on the Council’s education committee for almost twenty years.

He was passionate about speaking out against discrimination. His work was commemorated with an OBE in 1998. He died in 2003.

Bert Carless Way is situated

within the new Perry Barr Residential Scheme, situated on the site of the former Birmingham City University Campus after the road became available because an existing road (Franchise Street) was stopped up and subsumed into the site.

Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment, Councillor Waseem Zaffar unveiled the new street name at Perry Barr Residential Scheme the construction and he was joined by local community activist Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo and Bert Carless’ great niece, Maxine Tomlinson.

Cllr Zaffar said: “The Council had been looking for ways to honour Bert for some time, and my Cabinet colleagues and I were engaging with local community leaders like Dr

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Desmond Jaddoo on the most appropriate way to do this.

“However, when I was told that the Residential Scheme had an unnamed road not covered by the street naming competition it seemed like the perfect opportunity.

“Bert Carless was an inspirational, respected figure who made great strides in achieving more equality and diversity in our city.

“Therefore, to have Bert Carless Way in amongst Equality Road, Diversity Grove, and Inspire Avenue is an appropriate and fitting tribute.”

Maxine Tomlinson said: “We are pleased to have finally arrived at this point where my uncle, Uncle Carless, is being recognised by Birmingham as the first person of AfricanCaribbean descent to have served as Councillor and Alderman of

the city.

“Cllr Carless served tirelessly within his Ward representing all, and he has a strong and lasting legacy in championing equalities as well as serving on a number of committees across the city.”

Lendlease is the principal contractor for the 1,400 homes within the Perry Barr Residential Scheme - part of the wider Perry Barr regeneration programme – which includes improved leisure and community facilities, upgraded transport infrastructure and 5,000 new homes.

Anna Evans, Lendlease’s Project Director at Perry Barr, said: “No finer choice could have been made. Bert Carless’ name will live on within the streets of the city he served with such dedication.”

It is expected the homes using the new street names will be ready for occupation in 2023.

FUNDS for more than 120,000 meals were donated to vulnerable and homeless people across the country in time for Christmas, thanks to the Just Eat Christmas Meal Appeal launched in partnership with charities Social Bite and FoodCycle.

The initiative which launched on December 7, with pleas from a host of celebrities including Dame Helen Mirren, Rob Brydon and Sir Chris Hoy, asked the nation to make a donation of either £3, £5, or £10 when placing their Just Eat order, with each donation matched by the food delivery service.

Andrew Kenny UK MD for Just Eat commented: “Our customers exceeded our expectations with their generous response to our Just Eat Christmas Meal Appeal, particularly at a time when we know it is difficult for so many and we would like to extend our most sincere thanks to all those who have shown their support to help those less fortunate than themselves.”

Co-founder of Social Bite Josh Littlejohn, added: “Just Eat has shown tremendous leadership with this fundraising partnership to help fund an amazing 120,000 meals for homeless and vulnerable people all over the UK. At Social Bite we have seen first-hand the devastating impact the pandemic has had on our most vulnerable people and these funds will go a long way to alleviating food poverty this winter as well as funding longer term interventions to break the cycle of homelessness for good.”

0208 865 1922 (London)

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 11

NEWS

Organisers see budget increase for delayed Tokyo 2020 Games

HARRY AND MEGHAN REFLECT ON 2020 IN PODCAST Continued from Front Page

ORGANISERS of the delayed Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games will spend $900m (£670m) on measures to stop the spread of coronavirus at next year's events.

The final budget means the Games will cost $15.9bn (£11.8bn) - up $2.8bn (£2.1bn) from figures last year. It could make the Tokyo Games the most expensive summer Olympics in history.

Tokyo 2020 chief executive Toshiro Muto said: "Whether you see this budget as expensive or not depends on how you look at it. You can look at it from a cost perspective or an investment perspective. If you

look at it purely in terms of cost, it doesn't make sense.

"But if you look at it as a positive investment, I think there are areas where it can be identified as such." The coronavirus plans include the creation of an infection control centre in the Olympic and Paralympic Village, as well as plans to regularly test athletes and ban cheering in venues.

A poll by national broadcaster NHK showed the majority of the Japanese general public oppose holding the Games, favouring a further delay or even an outright cancellation of the event. But organisers insist the Games can be held, and have ruled out another delay.

First is Sir Elton, who describes 2020 as "the worst year I've ever known", but who says he hopes when the pandemic passes "that we have become better people - and I hope for healing".

Hollywood actor Tyler Perry talked about laying on food for 5,000 underprivileged families at his studio in Atlanta, Georgia, while chef Jose Andres also discussed distributing meals during the pandemic.

The other guests include 17-yearold activist Christina Adane, alternative health guru Deepak Chopra, US politician Stacey Abrams and British spoken word artist George the Poet.

Prince Harry and Meghan did not interview them, instead asking the guests to record themselves to

a v o i d what the Duke describes as "the awkward dance of a video chat". Meghan says their responses "all came back to one thing - to the power of connection".

Front Page Image from Office of the Governor-General of NZ under CC BY 4.0

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Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

METRO EXTENSION TO DIGBETH CLOSE AS DIVERSIONS UNDERWAY

A Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL Diamond Travel Celebrating Community Leaders As We Look To 2021

West Midlands Metro extension linking Digbeth with the city centre has moved a step forward with the muchanticipated light rail route now in the preliminary construction stage following approval by the Department of Transport earlier this year.

The £227m Birmingham Eastside extension will help transform and support the regeneration of Digbeth through improving connectivity and making the most out of HS2.

The 1.7km extension will run from Bull Street, in the city centre, to Digbeth, adding four new tram stops to the Metro network.

More than half of the route is planned to be free of overhead wires, similar to the recently opened extension from Grand Central to Centenary Square, and construction for the project includes urban realm upgrades for Digbeth High Street ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street joined representatives from Birmingham City Council, Midland Metro Alliance and the

Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) at New Bartholomew Street in Digbeth to witness the work taking place first hand.

He said: "This extension will not only connect the east and west of Birmingham by tram, but also

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provide a direct route for many across the Black Country to travel directly to the new Curzon Station for HS2.”

Councillor Ian Ward, West Midlands Combined Authority portfolio holder for transport and leader of Birmingham City

Council, said: “It’s exciting to see this work become more noticeable in recent weeks.

“Those working and living in the city have benefited from the extension of the West Midlands Metro to the west of Birmingham and now those who travel to and

from Digbeth will be delighted to see that this massive project is well underway bringing these same benefits to the east.”

Transport for West Midlans will continue to work with HS2 and partners to complete the line as soon as possible.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 13

NEWS

BLM Gave Me Extra Drive Hamilton FORMULA 1 World Champion, Lewis Hamilton says the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement helped to drive him on to his seventh title.

The 35-year-old took a knee on the grid and wore antiracism slogans in support of the cause during the season and his Mercedes team also adopted a black livery for the 2020 campaign in a stand against discrimination.

Having been voted the 2020 BBC Sports Personality of the Year earlier this month after equalling Michael Schumacher's record of winning seven World Championships and passing the German's total of 91 grands prix victories, he said: "I had this extra drive in me to get to the end of those races."

Speaking to historian and presenter Professor David Olusoga, Hamiltion said: "It was a different drive than what I've had in me in the past - to get to the end of those races first so that I could utilise that platform for Black Lives Matter and shine the light as bright as possible."

Asked if he had been concerned about the response to his stance, Hamilton replied: "There is no way that I could stay silent. And once I said that to myself, I didn't hold any fear."

When asked by presenter Nick Robinson about racism in his sport and the fact that he is the only Black F1 driver, he said: "There are many other young kids of colour that deserve the opportunity to progress, have a great education, be an engineer or whatever it is they want.

“But the fact is, the opportunity is not the same for them." The Mercedes driver also hinted that activism might represent a new avenue for him when he retires from racing.

Lewis added: "The happiness and success of winning these championships is a wonderful thing, but it's short lived."

As well as Black Lives Matter, Hamilton also discussed the Hamilton Commission, the programme set up in his name to increase diversity in motorsport, the power of sport to bring positive change, electric cars and animal rights.

KINDNESS OF CHRISTMAS RAISES OVER £16,000 FOR CITY’S CARE HOMES

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crowd-fund campaign to send food hampers as a festive treat to Wo l v e r h a m p t o n care homes has raised more than £16,000. ‘Kindness of Christmas’ raised a total of £16,444 enabling each of the 68 care homes in the city to enjoy a luxury hamper to share with their residents over Christmas.

The campaign was supported

by Tesco PLC, who donated £500 worth of goods to kick start the appeal, as well as producing the hampers with City of Wolverhampton Council alongside West Midlands Police’s ‘Festive Kindness’ campaign, which also seeks to show support and care for the vulnerable by distributing Christmas cards, as well as food and toys to food banks across the city.

Councillor Linda Leach, City of Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for adult services, said “It was difficult for everyone, especially older people and their families who have been through so much during Covid-19. I know that people are feeling extremely worried and anxious, but I would like to let you know that we are continuing to support

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and safeguard our vulnerable residents”.

Employees from the Council and Wolverhampton Homes volunteered their time to make sure all the hampers were carefully put together ready for distribution across the city.

The campaign followed the previous phases of the One City Fund crowd-funding initiative, a

collaboration between the Council, Wolverhampton Voluntary Sector Council (WVCS) and several organisations from across the city, aimed at supporting vulnerable groups during the pandemic.

A total of four campaigns were run under the One City Fund umbrella raising over £90,000, each with a particular focus;

people facing severe financial hardship as a result of Covid-19, raising vital funds to support the increased demand on the city’s food banks, supporting the homeless and helping people who have no access to technology to access important services or information.

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham)

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Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

g n i t o Prom xcellence E

As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting the positive and inspirational individuals and organisations in our communities, The Phoenix Newspaper presents Promoting Excellence - a closer look at our role models, entrepreneurs, community figures and success stories.

SCHOOLS AWARDED ANTI BULLYING CHARTER STATUS ality u q h Hig rom f e r ld ca child e years o iv f o t irth

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N

Day Nursery

ineteen schools and youth organisations in Wolverhampton were awarded #YES AntiBullying Charter Status.

The charter is given to schools and youth organisations which demonstrate commitment to preventing and dealing with bullying among young people.

To achieve charter status, schools and youth organisations must submit evidence and policies to support their application based on five statements in the charter. These

are: • Having clear policies: Discussing, monitoring and reviewing anti-bullying policies on a regular basis.

• Take action: Support staff to identify and tackle bullying appropriately.

• Tell: Ensure that pupils are aware that all bullying concerns will be dealt with sensitively and effectively.

• Take action: Report back quickly to parents/carers regarding their concerns on bullying.

• Understand: Seek to learn from anti-bullying good practise elsewhere and utilise the support of City of Wolverhampton Council when appropriate.

Schools which made a pledge to adhere to the charter were awarded charter status WITH winners announced on HeadStart Wolverhampton’s social media pages to mark the final day of AntiBullying Week 2020.

Schools and youth organisations awarded charter status included: Eastfield Primary School, Holy Trinity Primary School, Dovecotes Primary School, Penn Hall School, Moseley Park, West Park Primary School, St Mary’s Catholic Primary Academy, Rakegate Primary School, St Luke’s CE Primary School, Dunstall Hill Primary School, Our Lady and St Chad Catholic Academy, St Jude’s C

O

en N Copm Birm ingoswoaot i n g Birmin ham B n to gha us Parkm Biunseisnses s Pa!rk

g Takin ns io s s i m ad now For more information or to enquire about admissions visit:

www.wigglesandgigglesdaynursery.co.uk Contact us: 4360 Waterside Centre, Birmingham Business Park, Solihull Parkway, B37 7YN 07825082937 contact@wigglesandgigglesdaynursery.co.uk

Plans submitted for £150k netball facilities investment THE UNIVERSITY of Wolverhampton has submitted a planning application to Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council to upgrade outdoor courts at its Walsall Campus into a new high quality netball facility.

The investment is part of a long-term partnership agreement between the University and the Netball West Midlands Regional Board.

The proposed investment of £150,000 will create a new high specification anti-slip netball surface, four Netball standard courts, purpose built floodlighting and a spectator seating area.

Working alongside new and existing partners and other

external bodies, the facility will become a central hub for netball, providing access and opportunities to participate in grassroots level netball including social, recreational and competitive level netball for all ages and abilities.

The facility is also being developed to support the delivery of educational purposes including coach education and academic teaching. If approved, work will start on the new facility in the early spring of 2021.

Richard Medcalf, Director at the University’s Institute of Human Sciences, said: “The enhancement of these facilities will ensure that our student experience, particularly in sport, is that of the very highest calibre”.

of E Primary School, Graiseley Primary School, Woden Primary School, Broadmeadow Special School, Uplands Junior School, Wodensfield Primary School, St Peter’s Collegiate School and The Way Youth Zone.

Suzanne Webster-Smith, Headteacher at Uplands Junior School, said: “Everybody at Uplands Junior School is delighted to have been awarded #YES Anti-Bullying Charter Status in recognition of the work being done.

“It is important that we are recognised for our anti-bullying practises and take all of the necessary steps to ensure that bullying concerns are dealt with appropriately, so that our pupils can feel happy and respected when they are at school.”

Councillor John Reynolds, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “It is excellent that so many schools and organisations across the city have been recognised for their excellent anti-bullying work and awarded #YES Anti-Bullying Charter Status.”

2020’s recipients bring the total number of schools and youth organisations in Wolverhampton which have received charter status to 45.

Heartlands Academy still celebrating TES Awards win

AFTER being shortlisted, Heartlands Academy was revealed as winners of the TES Schools Awards, Secondary School of The Year 2020.

Hailed as “a great accolade for all of the community” and “a reflection on all of the hard work put in by students and staff alike,” Heartlands Academy was ranked the number one sponsored academy in the country for progress and was placed sixth overall in the national league tables.

Christine Gilbert, lead judge for the secondary school of the year category, said: “Heartlands Academy is truly ‘a place to empower dreams’. It emerged as the winner, for me, not only because of its outstanding performance but also because of the attention given to developing its students as active change-makers with impact in their local communities”.

The TES (Times Education Supplement) Awards, held online due to the pandemic, are recognised as amongst the most prestigious schools awards in the world, celebrating the most outstanding individuals and institutions across the country.

Broad Heath Primary School, in Coventry, was named the Best Primary School of the Year.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 15

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

Covid test increase for secondary schools MASS Covid testing of secondary-school pupils in England will be increased in an attempt to reduce the numbers being sent home.

The Department for Education announced that any students who have been in contact with a positive case will be offered seven days of daily testing.

The announcement came as attendance figures show more pupils out of school because of Covid outbreaks - with 15% missing on average across England and 23% in the West Midlands. Absences have been higher in secondary school, with 20% of pupils missing school last month.

Teachers can have weekly Covid tests.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said this "huge expansion" of testing would be a "milestone moment" in keeping schools open.

BIRMINGHAM 2022 EXPANDS APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME WITH NEW SPORT ROLES

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ports fans are being given a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of a major multi-sport event after Birmingham 2022 confirmed that it was adding two sport specific roles to its popular apprenticeship scheme.

The scheme was only launched in late September but more than 1,100 people have already applied to be part of it, with eight apprentices appointed and a total of 12 expected to start work in January on helping to plan and deliver the biggest event ever to be held in the West Midlands.

The sports specific apprenticeship roles, which are open to people of all ages, are expected to attract applicants who are passionate about sport, as the successful candidates will have an opportunity to learn from and build relationships with major industry stakeholders.

They will take on the role of Sport Team Assistant, working closely with the Director of Sport and assisting the wider sports team with co-ordinating updates to project plans, preparing presentations and reports and providing general administrative support.

John Crabtree, Chair of Birmingham 2022, said: “Not only will the successful applicants learn new skills and gain valuable experience but will also be able to say that they were part of history, helping to organise an event which will put Birmingham and the region firmly in the global spotlight.”

The Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, said: “These apprenticeships are fantastic opportunities for people to not only get involved in the biggest sporting event the region has ever held, but to also find a

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route into employment”.

The application process for the apprenticeship roles, which are open to everyone with a grade C (Level 4) in English, Grade D (Level 3) in Maths and with basic computer literacy skills, is very straightforward, with candidates simply completing a guided application.

More details about the roles, and how to apply for them, can be found on a new website at birmingham2022.gigroup.com.

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham)

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Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

DR SHADE AGBOOLA, RECOGNISED FOR COVID-19 RESPONSE W

hilst helping to prevent children dying from malaria and malnutrition in her native Nigeria, now, as Director of Public Health at Warwickshire County Council, Dr Shade Agboola’s passion for treating preventable diseases has seen her efforts to manage the Covid-19 pandemic sees her doing the job that is arguably the most critical to local government’s response to the pandemic as it’s the link between the NHS and councils.

Even before the start of lockdown she was, and still is, one of the top level of emergency planning group in the Council who meet daily to decide the actions required to implement the Government’s Coronavirus Action Plan.

Spending a lot of time working with partners across Warwickshire – especially the district and borough councils, she regularly ensures that everyone is regularly kept up to date.

It’s down to Dr Agboola and her team to translate the government guidance for the people who needed it quickly as she and the Council provide support to care homes 24/7 and bring in testing when it is clear that it is essential.

The Council also sets up an out-ofhours rota of support to care homes.

“It’s been a baptism of fire,” Dr Shade says. “When I got the call from Public Health England informing me about the first case of Covid-19 in Warwickshire, I never imagined that things would be where they are now. It was the beginning of an unbelievable experience for me.

“I’m even working every weekend to ensure we provide a round the clock response to the pandemic.

No amount of training could have prepared me for what was to come, but it’s worth it, especially when you can see the number of cases falling and you know that you are making a difference.

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“At the peak of the pandemic there was so much guidance, it was hard to keep up.”

Now spending her time on Test and Trace, Shade says: “We are one of the 11 national Beacon projects to pilot how we work together on our Outbreak Control Plan which has been launched and sets out how we will quickly identify and isolate cases to help us stop and manage outbreaks.”

With Public Health England’s findings about BAME people being at higher risk of dying from Covid-19 Dr Shade says: “My Director of Public Health Annual Report will certainly be focused on health inequalities”.

A Woman of Excellence, Dr Shade Agboola goes above and beyond to make sure that the health and wellbeing of all in her part of the UK is maintained during, and well after the end of the pandemic.

0208 865 1922 (London)

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 17

MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH AND FITNESS

JANUARY 2021

/streetcredmagazine www.streetcredmagazine.com

NO T YOUR MUSE Celeste Announces New Album

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Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

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Eminem uses song to say sorry to Rihanna for backing Chris Brown

E

minem has used a new song to apologise to Rihanna for "siding" with her ex-boyfriend Chris Brown, who assaulted her in 2009.

Eminem raps on his track Zeus: "And wholeheartedly apologies Rihanna for that song that leaked/ I'm sorry, Rih, it wasn't meant to cause you grief."

He was referring to a decade-old song that leaked in 2019, on which he said "of course I side with Chris Brown".

Zeus appears on Eminem's surprise album Music to be Murdered By Side B. The album, which accompanies January's Music to be Murdered By, has just been release.

At the time the track leaked last year, Eminem's spokesperson said: "This is a leak of something that's over 10 years old. After Eminem recorded it, he scrapped it, and rewrote it."

On his new track, he admitted the original lyric "was wrong of me".

Chris Brown pleaded guilty to the

assault in 2009, receiving five years probation and a community service order.

Eminem and Rihanna have collaborated several times, including on 2010's US number one single Love the Way You Lie, as well as Numb on her 2012 album Unapologetic and The Monster from The Marshall Mathers LP 2 in 2013.

The rapper's new album features collaborations with Dr Dre, Ty Dolla $ign, J Premier and Skylar Gray.

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'Love wins' for Harry and Meghan in first podcast from Spotify THE DUKE and Duchess of Sussex released their first podcast, in which they reflect on 2020 with a string of celebrities and activists for their podcast deal with Spotify.

Hollywood’s Tyler Perry, tennis star Naomi Osaka and singer Sir Elton John feature on the first episode of Archewell Audio.

"No matter what life throws at you guys,” Meghan said, “trust us when we say, love wins".

She explains that they decided to enlist "a few friends and a lot of other folks" who "we admire, and get their thoughts on what they learned from 2020".

Harry and Meghan ask guests to record themselves to avoid what the Duke describes as "the awkward dance of a video chat".

The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 19

S

ir Lenny Henry has written a TV drama inspired by his mother's move from Jamaica to England in the 1950s.

The six-part series, titled Three Little Birds - follow three fictional Jamaican women who face racism and other obstacles in the Midlands - is based on the stories his mother Winifred would tell about forging a new life in Britain.

The multi-award winning actor, writer, broadcaster and comedian said it was a "tribute to the giants who came before us and walked cold streets to create new lives".

He explained: "My mother spoke often about how difficult life was back in the day when she first arrived in Britain to begin her new life.

"The stories she told, and indeed the narratives my brothers and sisters beguiled me with over the dinner table, made me think about writing a fictional account of three Caribbean women; all with differing yet complementary attributes - a serious tenacious one, a quick-witted flibbertigibbet and a Christian prude.

"They all get to the UK with one thing on their minds - a new life. Although these are fictional accounts, my mother's narrative will run throughout these stories and hopefully the stories of other

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ENTERTAINMENT

Sir Lenny writes tV drama inspired by mother, Winifred post-Windrush arrivals will trigger memories, smiles and tears too."

ITV described the series as "life affirming", and former Doctor Who and Years and Years writer Russell T Davies has advised Sir Lenny on the script.

Dudley-born Sir Lenny has previously described his mother's first few months in England in 1957 as "awful", sleeping on her brother's floor and facing frequent racism.

He has also spoken about their complicated relationship, with his mother hitting him with a frying pan and other objects. In his memoir ‘Who Am I, Again?’, which was published last year, he said "she could punch you and knock you through a brick wall".

His mother died in 1998.

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0121 339 5885 (Birmingham) l The Stereophonics return to Arena Birmingham on February 29th

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Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

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Kia sponsors LoL World Champs, DAMWON Gaming

K

ia Motors Corporation has announced a multi-year naming sponsorship with DAMWON Gaming, which will begin next year.

DAMWON Gaming, the winner of the 2020 League of Legends (LoL) World Championship, will play under the team name of DWG Kia. The naming sponsorship will see the introduction of new team logos and uniforms, and numerous marketing campaigns between DWG and the Kia brand.

"We will contribute to the revitalisation of e-sports globally and actively communicate with fans through the naming sponsorship with DAMWON Gaming," said Hyugho Kwon, Head of Domestic Sales and Service Division at Kia Motors.

"In particular, we are aiming to promote the young and dynamic Kia brand to e-sports fans around the world through this new partnership."

Kia is already engaged in several marketing activities related to e-sports. For example, Kia has been an official partner to the LoL European Championship (LEC) since 2019 and has actively collaborated with Riot Games, who makes LoL. As part of its LEC partner activity, Kia produced the hugely popular music video for the opening of the 2020 LEC season, which featured Kia’s flagship zero-emission e-Niro, and introduced standings for the best players and teams such as ‘Kia Player of the Game’, ‘Kia Split MVP’, and ‘Kia Team of the Season’. Kia has also released promotional videos with prestigious European LoL teams such as Fnatic and Rogue gaming.

LoL is one of the world's most popular online multi-player games, enjoyed by more than 100 million people every month, with 11 leagues running with great success each year.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 21

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ENTERTAINMENT

Rita Ora apologises for breaking lockdown rules

RECORD-BREAKING ‘STREET OUT ON ITS OWN AFTER 60 YEARS

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ith the first episode airing on December 9 1960 hit ITV soap Coronation Street turned 60 as stars past and present took to social media to mark the very special anniversary with cast members flocking to pay tribute to the much-loved soap in a series of touching posts.

Seasons later, people’s love for the show hasn’t waned and the show’s alumni have been sharing throwbacks of their time on the soap and fond memories of their stints on the cobbles to celebrate the show’s 60th anniversary.

Coronation Street, which has been recognised by Guinness World Records ahead of its 60th anniversary has been given an updated certificate, along with its longest-serving cast member William Roache and the programme, which became the world's longest-running TV soap opera in 2010, officially turn 60 yesterday.

Roache, who has played Ken Barlow since the soap's 1960 debut, said it had given him "a lifetime of wonderful memories".

Set in the fictional northern town

RITA ORA said she was "deeply sorry" for breaking English lockdown rules to celebrate her 30th birthday.

The singer says she attended a party at a restaurant in west London during the hight of the lockdown.

"Given the restrictions, I realise how irresponsible these actions were and I take full responsibility," she wrote in a statement.

Up to 30 people were said to be at the party, although she describes the event as a "small gathering", saying it was a "spur of the moment" decision.

London's Metropolitan Police confirmed officers went to the Casa Cruz restaurant after a report about a potential breach of Covid lockdown regulations.

"I'm deeply sorry for breaking the rules and in turn understand that it puts people at risk," she posted.

"This was a serious and inexcusable error of judgement."

Pubs and restaurants were closed (although they could serve non-alcoholic takeaways), with police having the power to break up groups larger than six and those who ignore officers could be fined £100, doubling with each offence to a maximum of £3,200.

Kensington and Chelsea Council, which is responsible for issuing Covid fines against businesses in the area, said it was still investigating what happened at Casa Cruz.

of Weatherfield, Coronation Street was originally only intended to run for 13 episodes.

In February this year the show aired its 10,000th, an hour-long edition full of nods to the drama's highly eventful past.

As gripping storylines unfold to mark the massive milestone celebrities who’ve previously starred in the show reflected on episodes gone by.

Pop star and former Street regular, Keith Duffy, for one wrote, ‘Happy 60th Birthday @ coronationstreet I was there for the 50th feels like yesterday ❤️ Super team on and off the screen! #especiallyhairandmskeup.

Current ‘bad boy’ Ian Bartholomew, who plays Geoff Metcalfe, also posted a warm message for the serial drama’s 60th, saying: ‘Happy 60th Birthday to Coronation Street.

And may there be many happy returns.’

One of the younger Corrie stars, Ella Jade Mulvaney, recounted her time growing up playing Amy Barlow on the soap tweeting, ‘Happy 60th Anniversary Corrie!

The last ten years have been a blast, here’s to many more!”

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Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

Virtual MOBOs proves enlightening for winners

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fter a two-year break, the MOBO Awards returned with a socially-distant show which was hosted by Maya Jama and Chunkz, and broadcast on YouTube.

Mahalia and Nines both won two awards, with Mahalia taking home Best R&B/Soul and Best Female and Nines winning Best Album and Best Hip Hop act,

with Mahalia saying: "As a young Black artist at the MOBOs, everything it stands for and holds is really special."

Young T and Bugsey who were awarded Best Song for Don't Rush, released their mixtape at the start of the year, with plans for tours and other live performances.

"All artists have had to learn how to manoeuvre through it, hopefully next year shows will be

www.streetcredmagazine.com back again," Bugsey.

Aitch, who picked up Best Newcomer, said the event was a good end to a bad year. He said: "It's sick to be recognised for what I'm doing."

In a year like no other, Aitch says time away from touring and performances has had some advantages. "Some things have happened that wouldn't have happened if I was out on the road."

Chunkz won Best Media Personality up against names including Clara Amfo, Mo Gilligan and co-host Maya Jama.

With social-distancing measures in place, it might not have been the best year to host such a big event. But, after the MOBOs were cancelled in 2018 and 2019, founder Kanya King said she "felt like she had to" bring them back.

She said: "Entertainment and activism have always gone hand in hand, and we're using the power of Black culture to empower and uplift people."

This year's ceremony also included a one-off category to retrospectively award the best albums released between September 2017 and August 2019; won by Ella Mai.

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CELESTE IS

R U O Y NO T MUSE

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eleste has announced details of her hotly anticipated debut album ‘Not Your Muse’ which is set for release on February 26th through Polydor Records.

‘Not Your Muse’ features twelve songs, including nine brand new tracks alongside acclaimed singles ‘Strange’, ‘A Little Love’ and ‘Stop This Flame’ (the theme song to Sky Sports Premiere League).

The album is available on CD, cassette, vinyl (including a white label red vinyl) and deluxe CD. The deluxe version contains additional tracks including early favourites ‘Lately’, ‘Both Sides Of The Moon’ and ‘Father’s Son’ as well as ‘Hear My Voice’.

The announcement completes what has been a remarkable year for 2020’s breakthrough artist, who achieved the double win of BBC Sound of 2020 and the BRITS Rising Star award.

Celeste’s spell-binding

“’Not Your Muse’ is the power I found when I felt powerless...In making this album I have allowed myself to arrive at a place where I feel empowered, fiercely wide-eyed and fulfilled.” performance of ‘Strange’ at The BRITS in February placed her firmly in the global spotlight, winning her a legion of new fans blown away by its raw intimacy.

While the ensuing pandemic put paid to all touring and festival plans, the British-Jamaican soul singer and songwriter released a

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string of captivating songs - the sentiments of which resonate in these uncertain times - including ‘Hear My Voice’ was co-written with Golden Globe-nominated composer Daniel Pemberton and is the focus track of the Netflix film The Trial of the Chicago 7, written and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Aaron Sorkin.

‘Hear My Voice’ is tipped as an Oscars contender for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards next year.

New song ‘A Little Love’, which was written and recorded for the John Lewis and Waitrose Christmas advertising campaign, has been widely praised as a Christmas classic in the making.

She is the first artist to be commissioned to write and perform an original song for the ad, marking another milestone in her unparalleled ascent.

Further accolades were bestowed on Celeste with two big announcements last week; YouTube Music named her as the next talent in their Artist On The Rise series, which celebrates and supports the most exciting new artists in the UK, then Disney Pixar announced that she lends her vocals to the end credit vocal, ‘It’s Alright’, on the Pixar ‘must see’ film, SOUL. With her phenomenal debut album ‘Not Your Muse’ now confirmed for a February release, next year looks set to belong to Celeste too.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 23

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THE NEW LIFESTYLE AWARDS CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE AND DIVERSITY ONLINE PRESENTATION

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Page 24 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

ENTERTAINMENT SWISH MEDIA AWARDS 2020

Dedicated Service Award Neelam Duggal

Best Business And Mindset Coach Avril Grant

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he Swish Media Awards 2020 were sponsored by Crownsway Insurance Brokers Ltd and Town Hall Symphony Hall, celebrating diversity and excellence in Beauty, Fashion, Sports, Arts, and Entertainment and recognised the achievements of emerging businesses in the UK. The virtual awards presentation was an exclusive Live Stream event supported

by THSH and Crownsway Insurance.

These awards recognise that high standards of quality and

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Best Social Media Influencer Theo Johnson

Best Independent Business Chad Lewis

integrity are vital to the success of business as rewarding the innovation delivered by people who are at the cutting edge of their profession.

Any organization within the UK, regardless of size, sector or industry, as well as individuals, teams and agencies entered these awards.

All entries went through a rigorous judging process with up to 5 finalists in each category.

The Swish Media Awards VIP presentation is designed to empower individuals and let them know that we are here to support as an independent

media company.

Being Swish is a powerful award and we are here to honour those who have been courageous throughout the 2020 lockdown.

It was a very stylish ceremony hence the name Swish!

The winners announced at the Black Tie Awards Night were:

Best DJ Personality Joe Hunt

Best Eatery And Hospitality

Mellows Bar And Restuarant

Lifetime Achievement Award Dr Dharam Vir Duggal

Best Hair Salon 2020 Klassic Koncept Special Recognition And Community Service Alison Cope

Best Independent Business Chad Lewis

Best Social Media Influencer Theo Johnson

Entreprenuer Of The Year Samantha Golding

Best MUA And Beautician Marcia Blackwood

Woman Of Power Award Dr Saroj Duggal MBE Best Hair Salon

Best Retailer Of The Year

Lifetime Achievement Award

Dedicated Service Award

Woman Of Power Award

Best Business And Mindset Coach

Klassic Concept Dr Dharam Vir Duggal Dr Saroj Duggal MBE

Female Business Excellence Denisha Sawyers

Best Gym And Fitness Mike Hind

Best Comedy Act Smash

Kenneth Grey

Neelam Duggal Avril Grant

Best Fashion And Music Influencer Romeo

Nominations will be open for 2021 in January on www.swishmediauk.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 25

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Female Business Excellence Denisha Sawyers

Best DJ Personality Of The Year Joe Hunt

Best Restuarant And Hospitality Mellows Bar And Restuarant

SWISH MEDIA AWARDS 2020

Best Retailer Of The Year Kenneth Grey

Special Recognition And Community Service Award Alison Cope

Entreprenuer Of The Year Samantha Golding

Best Comedy Act Smash

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Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

SWISH MEDIA AWARDS 2020

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R U O Y NO T MUSE

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 27

ENTERTAINMENT

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ock Choir, the largest contemporary choir in the world with 33,000 Members, helped the whole country combat loneliness this Christmas by broadcasting a live and festive Rock Choir singing event from their YouTube channel on Christmas Day morning.

2020 has been a year when Mental Health has been in crisis and now more than ever it needs to be prioritised.

Over half (54%) of UK adults are worried about the mental health of someone they know this Christmas according to a survey published by the Mental Health Foundation and since the new tier 4 announcement a record number of people spent Christmas alone this year as a result of the pandemic and the new tighter restrictions.

Many Rock Choir Members had been reporting high levels of anxiety with the potential of not being able to see their families at Christmas and facing the prospect of being alone.

Rock Choir once again stepped in and on Christmas Day they went live at 9.30am on their YouTube channel for a fun and festive singing session.

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Rock Choir’s Virtual Sing

Everyone was invited to join in, whether they are a Rock Choir Member or not. Rock Choir Leader, Thomas George, led the session and families

and individuals who were on their own, were be able to send messages online with him and connect with other families being kept apart in different households.

THIS SPOT COULD BE YOURS! Reach a diverse audience worldwide Postive, Informative and Objective News Inspiring a New Generation Keeping you connected with your community

• locally • nationally • internationally

• monthly in print • weekly newsletter • daily online

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Page 28 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

ENTERTAINMENT MOTORS Citroën Ë-Dispatch Named As 2021 “International Van of the Year” CITROËN Ë-Dispatch has been awarded the prestigious title of 2021 “International Van of The Year".

Its contemporary styling, onboard comfort, dynamic qualities and loading capacity combined with the benefits of the best electrical technology, convinced a panel of 24 independent journalists and magazine editors who specialise in Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs).

The win marks the sixth time that Citroën has been honoured with this highly coveted prize.

IVOTY Jurors Commented “Once again Citroën has demonstrated its expertise when it comes to commercial vehicles alongside with its desire to provide practical solutions to its customers.

“In this period of energy transition, New Citroën Ë-Dispatch has proved itself to be an indispensable work tool for professionals, local authorities, and associations.

It combines the best of the Dispatch’s key features with all the benefits of an electric motor resulting in greater convenience, comfort, freedom of movement and reduced running costs.”

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MK Dons and Suzuki extend association

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his new commitment extends the Football Club’s long-standing relationship with Suzuki GB, who first became title partners back in 2014.

The Suzuki logo will remain adorned the Dons’ first-team playing shirt and replica kits through to an eighth season, while there will continue to be extensive Suzuki branding around Stadium MK. What’s more, Suzuki has maintained their investment into MK Dons’ community initiatives, providing support for the Women’s team as well as the many inclusion and disability activities run by the MK Dons Sport and Education Trust.

MK Dons Chairman Pete Winkelman said: “This is fantastic news for MK Dons and the Milton Keynes community.

Suzuki have been terrific in their support of MK Dons throughout their time as Title Partners, but particularly during this extremely difficult period, and they have demonstrated their commitment to the Football Club by agreeing this new deal at this time.

“Not only will it be fantastic to see the globally recognised Suzuki logo remain on the first-

team shirts, but I’m also thrilled that they will be able to continue their excellent work in the community alongside the MK Dons Sport and Education Trust.

“Suzuki are a credit to this city and we’re extremely proud to have this association with them.

It’s a privilege for us to work alongside a company who are at

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the top of their game, who care so much about our Football Club and our city.”

Nobuo Suyama, Managing Director of Suzuki GB PLC, said: “Our long-established sponsorship of MK Dons has proved a successful and mutually beneficial partnership.

Continuing as Title sponsor

provides a solid foundation on which to further our relationship with the club and maintain the support of the renowned and invaluable work of MK Dons in the surrounding community.

Suzuki has been based in Milton Keynes for over 15 years and we are proud to be part of the area’s successful commercial sector.`

We are delighted to announce our further sponsorship with MK Dons; as well as reaching out to people outside our business, we also see it as a great way of building pride and engagement with our head office staff, many of whom live in and around the city.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 29

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ŠKODA CELEBRATES 125 YEARS OF HISTORY

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his December, ŠKODA AUTO can look back on 125 years of history. This makes the Czech company one of the longest established car manufacturers in the world still in operation.

The international success story began shortly before Christmas 1895 when Václav Laurin and Václav Klement founded a workshop for the repair and manufacture of bicycles in Mladá Boleslav.

Later they also produced motorbikes and automobiles, released from 1925 under the ŠKODA brand.

Exactly 125 years ago – shortly before Christmas 1895 – the mechanic Václav Laurin and the bookseller Václav Klement laid the foundation stone for the present-day ŠKODA AUTO. The two founders were united by their passion for cycling. They wanted to offer their customers

bicycles built from the best materials available, while still being affordable.

In their small workshop three people were employed to make bicycles driven by foot or hand.

One year later, 21 employees were making five different models of bikes, which bore the name SLAVIA. The range was soon expanded to include bicycles for children, tandem bicycles, two-wheelers with chain or shaft drive, and tricycles

Motorpoint opens new store in time for Christmas MOTORPOINT is set open its new store in Stockton-onTees this Friday – just in time for Christmas.

The UK’s leading independent car retailer has

been busy transforming the former Jennings Ford dealership on Yarm Road, two minutes from Preston Farm, as part of its ongoing nationwide expansion programme.

MOTORS

Electric Vehicle Charge Points ‘Lack Accessibility’ A NEW survey of electric vehicle (EV) drivers has found issues around accessibility for disabled users.

Zap-Map, the UK’s leading EV mapping service, polled 2,200 EV drivers on their experiences of using Britain’s charging network.

The survey has been running for four years and is seen as the go-to guide for tracking EV driver behaviour and charging patterns for the electric vehicle industry.

For the first time, and partnering with Motability, the national disability charity, this year’s survey asked respondents if they considered themselves to have a disability, and about the challenges they face while charging their electric vehicles.

The results found that one-third of disabled people surveyed had difficulties locating a suitable charger that could meet their needs, with one in seven noting their very specific challenges with the weight of charging cables.

for transporting goods or people.

The company owes its rapid growth to the vision and entrepreneurial talent of Václav Klement. He succeeded in winning large orders both on the domestic market and in industrialised countries such as Germany and Great Britain.

The outstanding qualities of the motorised two-wheelers from Mladá Boleslav were also confirmed by their success in demanding racing events.

Motorpoint, which has a network of stores throughout England, Scotland and Wales, including a long-established branch in Birtley, County Durham, will finally welcome customers through the door from Friday, December 18 following a multi-millionpound investment in the fiveacre site.

Motorpoint Stockton-onTees, which in a previous life was also a former Cooperative Wholesale jam factory, will stock up to 500 low mileage, nearly new cars and light commercial vehicles from 30 different manufacturers’, most of which are under three years old and with less than 30,000 miles.

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Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

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THSH RELEASE BRAND-NEW TRACK FROM GRIME MC DAPZ ON THE MAP

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l Dapz On The Map

irmingham born, multi-talented artist, Dapz On The Map has written a brandnew track for the music charity responsible for Town Hall and Symphony Hall titled “Stay Safe”.

The Grime MC’s brand-new song scores a video showcasing the digital broadcasts which have been shared from the iconic Birmingham venues during the pandemic.

As concerts are cancelled and postponed to 2021 as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, Town Hall Symphony Hall has continued to bring live music to the people of Birmingham and beyond. Digital broadcasts from Town Hall and

Symphony Hall have amassed over a quarter of a million views since they began in April.

Dapz OTM's songs touch on various issues, both personal and political and he often talks of the struggle he's faced as an aspiring artist attempting to balance being both a father and a musician.

Soft-spoken yet intense in his passion for words and music, Dapz new track ‘Stay Safe’ includes lyrics such as “heard of the bounce back scheme might apply for a bounce back loan, can’t get furlough” and “places of worship are closed but they’ve got a 10pm curfew for pubs”.

Dapz OTM has had a steady rise up the ranks in the urban UK music scene with including

national radio play with his music being playlisted on BBC Radio 1xtra, and other specialist stations such as Rinse FM. He made his debut appearance in the festival scene performing at the Great Escape Festival, before going on to do other major festivals. Dapz supported the likes of Kano and Skepta on tour before going on to selling out his 1st headline show at the O2 Academy Birmingham.

Nick Reed, Chief Executive for the music charity responsible for Town Hall and Symphony Hall said: “The future of Birmingham’s Town Hall and Symphony Hall, and our future as the music charity responsible for them, looks very different from the plans we began

the year with.

“Over the last few years we have evolved into an organisation that earns more than 90% of its turnover from our trading activities and this supports every aspect of what we do, from presenting international superstars on our stages to supporting emerging talent and creating first musical experiences for children in local schools.

“The digital performances and activities we have continued and will continue to deliver - in these desperate times have been made possible with the support of Town Hall and Symphony Hall’s audiences.”

The accompanying video highlights many of the broadcasts from the music charity responsible for Town Hall and Symphony Hall, including performances from artists such as Lady Sanity, Casey Bailey, Tom Aspaul, Xhosa Cole and Mark Kingswood.

Highlights also include broadcasts from cultural partners, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Symphony Hall’s resident orchestra, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

To hear Dapz On The Map’s ‘Stay Safe’, find Town Hall and Symphony Hall on Facebook, YouTube or Twitter.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

@PhoenixNewsUK

INTRODUCING BIG DAVE’S TREE OF LIFE

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he idea of Big Dave’s Tree Of Life is that if your world has been blown apart and turned upside down due to Cirus The Virus, this whirlwind global pandemic that looks like it can change its own direction at any time.

That we have to be flexible and adapt to these changes also. We need to be able to grow our own trees not in the ground but in our minds.

So we can plant new roots and help to grow the shoots of new beginnings to be able to grow in different ways.

That will be able to reach out to enable us all to reset our life’s expectations and in some cases rebuild the very foundations that we need not only to survive but to thrive.

This is the greatest challenge that most of us will ever face simply acknowledging that we are strong enough to reach our goals and grow just like the mighty Tree of Life. The main things that will help us to succeed are around our Physical & Mental health in the form of Wellbeing and Mindfulness.

Our Adaptability to be able to fit in with new surroundings and new ways to approach tasks. Our Flexibility to be able to recognise changes of situations and circumstances and to move in different directions to compensate for these and steer a new pathway if required. To give us a feeling of hope and with the Hope an Opportunity to deliver to our life’s goals and to nurture and feed the Tree Of Life.

But to achieve this we have to have Fortitude, Grit, Determination and a Desire to succeed and an Inner Strength to deliver and to be able to take life’s punches no matter whatever is thrown at us.

2021 is the start of a new decade and I am sure we are all pleased to see the back end of 2020 and the annusoribilus of a catastrophic year that has touched us all. But with the start of a new decade comes the opportunity of new beginnings and with that new hope. Hope Springs Eternal and with the newness we can lay down fresh roots for the Tree Of Life.

Wishing you all a Positive New Year Stay Safe, Stay Strong, Stay Together in 2021

BIG DAVE’S SAFE PAGE

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MADE BIRMINGHAM IN

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 31

Mind, Body & Soul

Welcome to 2021...

A BRAND new year with great new beginnings. A year where anything is possible and everything is within your reach.

Make positive thinking your mantra.

To help keep me in a positive mindset, I like to pull a daily Oracle Card from one of the many decks I own.

Oracle cards are very upbeat in their readings. They give me daily inspiration and Insight when needed into a particular situation.

As we are beginning a new journey into the unknown , I have pulled a card for all of us .

The Oracle card is from Denise Linn Gateway .

Letting Go...

This is very apt for the time of year.

This card signifies the need to let go of what no longer serves us and to start afresh. Think about what you no longer

need or want in your life.

What or who is holding you back?

What can you do to improve the situation?

Life has to have its ups and downs the Yin and Yang, but don’t dwell on the ‘down’ bits.

De-clutter and make room for the newness that will replace the old - just like the old year that we’ve just said ‘Good Riddance’ to.

Start afresh and go with the flow, enjoy what life has to offer believe in yourself and what you can achieve when you allow yourself to.

You Are Amazing

I hope this card reading helps you on your journey and I will be doing a regular monthly card pull for us to keep us inspired.

Enjoy what’s about to unfold.

Ruth G Soul Butterfly

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

Ballet dancers show support for Lopes Gomes after racism claims BLACK and mixed heritage ballet dancers have shown support for Chloé Lopes Gomes, after she shared her experiences of racism within the industry.

The French performer is the first Black female dancer at Berlin's principal ballet company Staatsballett. She accused the institution of racial harassment, claiming she was told she did not fit in because of her skin colour. The company responded by saying her allegation "deeply moves us".

An internal investigation into discrimination and racism in the company is now under way, a statement has confirmed.

Marcelino Sambe, the second Black male to be a principal dancer with The Royal Ballet, posted on Instagram that he was "moved" to read about "horrible experiences" she has suffered in "this often anachronistic world or ballet. I'm so proud of you for sharing your story" wrote Sambe. "It takes strength to tell the truth."

"I hope that by you sharing your experiences, future dancers won't have to go through the same."

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CYBERPUNK 2077 PULLED BY SONY

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ith Sony p u l l i n g Cyberpunk 2077, one of the year's most-anticipated games, from the PlayStation store and offering refunds to all players, the unprecedented move followed complaints that the game has been riddled with bugs and glitches, and is prone to crashes.

The game’s developers, CD Projekt Red, offered refunds for the game with the company also committing to releasing patches to improve the game.

It was unclear when Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) planned to return the game to the PlayStation Store.

The company said: “SIE strives to ensure a high level of customer satisfaction, therefore we will begin to offer a full refund for all gamers who have purchased Cyberpunk

2077 via PlayStation Store”.

Some users reported being unable to request the refund, even after the announcement - something Sony said it was working "to get up and running as soon as possible".

It can still be bought on Xbox and PCs - and gamers who do not want be reimbursed for their PlayStation copies can still play the game and receive updates.

In Cyberpunk 2077, players live in a criminal world where they can pay to upgrade their bodies with technology. The action role-playing game was originally "announced" in 2012, but then re-announced in 2018 and then showcased with huge fanfare - and an appearance by Keanu Reeves - in June 2019.

A statement on the company’s website said: “They won’t make the game on last-gen look like its

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running on a high-spec PC or next-gen console, but it will be closer to that experience than it is now.” It also encouraged users to use refund systems on the Sony and Xbox stores if they were unhappy.

It is not clear if the removal of the game from the PlayStation store means that Sony has decided the game is "faulty" under its rules.

Microsoft says that while it considers all sales final, "we understand there may be extenuating circumstances" and it considers several factors for refund requests.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 33

OBITUARIES

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George Blake

orn George Behar, in Holland, the former MI6 officer - one of the Cold War's most infamous double agents - handed over information leading to the betrayal of MI6 agents in Eastern Europe after escaping jail in London in 1966 and fleeing to Russia.

The son of a Spanish Jew father, he worked for the Dutch

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to Bosch in 1992 - after which he became involved with Worcester.

Funding the development of Sixways, he also served as club president with Worcestershire County Cricket Club and inspired Warriors’ rise to the Premiership for the first time in 2004.

He was an ambassador for Warriors, the city of Worcester and county of Worcestershire.

He died, age 83.

Peter Alliss

he ‘voice of golf’ was synonymous with its coverage on BBC TV since 1961 as lead commentator after retiring as a player in 1978.

Born in Berlin, in Germany, where his father Percy was the professional, he was inducted into the ‘World Golf Hall of Fame’ in 2012, winning 31 tournaments – as a player - and they were the

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awarded the title of ‘general’ by the pro-Moscow government before becoming widely known as ‘General Suhaila’ - with a reputation as being the country’s most respected surgeon.

She helped to save hundreds of lives and kept the hospital going during the 1990s.

Suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for six years she died, age 72.

Cecil Duckworth CBE

he former Worcester Warriors owner helped transform the rugby club into a Premiership side, and was actively involved there from 1997 to 2015 - stepped down as chairman - to become club president.

Born in Cheshire, he moved to Worcestershire in 1958, before starting the Worcester Engineering Co Ltd, who invented the combiboiler, before selling the company

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orn in 1934, the son of a Mississippi sharecropper, he served in the army, played baseball and worked in a smelting plant before turning to music.

He became one of its biggest stars during a period of division in the USA, in the 160s, with fifty-two of his songs reaching the country Top 10. Another – ‘Crystal Chandeliers’ - is still

Suhaila Siddiq

orn in 1948, in Kabul, as Afghanistan’s only female lieutenant general, she was one of a small number of women to hold a ministerial post - helping to establish a place for women in medicine, the military and wider society.

Studying medicine, she completed her training in Moscow before returning to Afghanistan to work as a doctor and came to prominence when

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resistance during World War Two before joining British intelligence.

He estimated betraying more than 500 Western agents. He was recalled to London, arrested, tried and pleaded guilty to five counts of passing information to the Soviet Union before escaping from HMP Wormwood Scrubs in 1995.

He died in Moscow aged 98

first father-son duo to compete in the Ryder Cup. His first experience behind the microphone came at the 1961 Open Championship. In 1978 he was appointed as the station’s chief golf commentator.

His soothing voice was the audio accompaniment to the legends of the game; past and present.

He was 89.

Paolo Rossi

taly’s 1982 World Cup hero led the Azzurri to victory in Spain - finishing as top scorer and named ‘Best Player’.

Starting at Vicenza, he move to Juventus and later AC Milan abd was banned from football for three years after accusations of taking part in the 1980 Totonero scandal - reduced to two years before playing at the World Cup. He scored a hat-trick in the 3-2

quarter-final win over Brazil, both goals against Poland in the semifinal and scored in the 3-1 win against West Germany in the final - and was awarded the Ballon d’Or. He scored 20 goals in 48 appearances for the national side, and more than 100 Serie A goals.

He died after illness aged 64.

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Charley Pride

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popular in Northern Irelands.

He won three Grammy Awards, followed by a lifetime achievement award in 2017 before being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000 and was awarded the Country Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award in Nashville, Tennessee.

He was 86.

Dame Barbara Windsor DBE

orn in London, she’s best known as Peggy Mitchell in EastEnders she coined the phrase; “Get oudda my pub”) and for the Carry On films.

She was also in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and On the Fiddle, after starting as a schoolgirl in The Belles of St. Trinian’s. Many other film roles followed.

She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014. After witch she became an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society - to raise awareness about the disease.

Awarded Freedom of the City of London in 2010, she was made a Dame (DBE) in 2016.

She died at a care home, age 83.

Dr Paul Lawrence MA

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he Jamaican-born IT professional delivered work-class solutions before becoming CEO of www.

Just-Tickets.com (launched in 2018) - plus forming other creations.

He’s a founding member of the ‘100 Black Men of London’ charity - delivering programmes and activities focused on mentoring, education, economic empowerment, plus health & wellness since 2001. He was also

T

Gerard Houllier

he Frenchman managed Liverpool (1998-2004) winning the FA Cup, League Cup and Uefa Cup in 2000-01.

Before that he managed Lens, Paris St-Germain and the French national team.

In 2001, he had open heart surgery after suffering chest pains during a match, but returned to Anfield for another three years -

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trustee of the youth mentoring charity ‘Youth Synergy’.

An author, newspaper columnist, coach and philanthropist, he was respected for creating positive platforms for children and young people, and recently launched his own YouTube talk show ‘People Talk’.

He died a week before the launch of the Jamaica Floods Fundraising Concert, in which he was to be part of - after breathing difficulties - age 56.

leaving in 2004.

He led Lyon to two French titles before joining the FFF in 2007, but was enticed by Aston Villa in 2010. He stepped down from the role at the end of the 2010-11 season with health concerns. He also held roles at Red Bull, and was technical director of women’s football at Lyon and OL Reign.

He died, age 73.

John le Carré

orn David Cornwell, in Dorset, the espionage writer wrote ‘The Spy Who Came In From The Cold’ and ‘Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy’ under the pseudonym of John le Carré.

After teaching at Eton, he joined the Foreign Office - at the British Embassy in Germany; working in intelligence - with access to files with insights into the workings of

the secret service.

He wrote his first novel in 1961.

Some people declared him a “kind of revelatory ‘Message From The Other Side’.

His career as a spy came to an end in 1964 after being one of many names given to the Soviet Union by a double agent.

He died from pneumonia, age 89.

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham)

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Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

AZUZA STREET

New protector of religious freedom appointed THE appointment of Fiona Bruce MP to the post of Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) will help people of faith to live “without fear or favour across the world”, the Bishop of Truro, the Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen, has said.

The Conservative MP for Congleton, who also chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief, replaces Rehman Chishti MP, who resigned from the position in September, saying he could not support the Government’s Internal Markets Bill, which broke sections of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement “I look forward to working with Fiona Bruce both in pursuing the full implementation of those recommendations and in advocating for FoRB for all, without fear or favour, across the world,” Bishop Mounstephen said.

Ms Bruce said: “The post of special envoy for FoRB will be

l Fiona Bruce MP placed at the service of some of the most vulnerable people across the world.

“As a founder member of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, and a signatory to that APPG’s first report of 2013 — which described Article 18 as an ‘orphaned right’ — I believe it is time to bring the orphan out of the orphanage.”

To advertise

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special ‘The Vicar Of Dibley In Lockdown’ proved its usual incredibly funny self but also gained greater following after vicar Geraldine was seen ‘taking a knee’.

As the lockdown also affected fictional Dibley, she reflected on her duties as a woman of the cloth, and her worldly obligations.

The vicar, played by Dawn French, said: “This last week, I’ve been thinking about this Black Lives Matter thing, and the horror show that was, the murder of George Floyd.

“Now this is tricky for us in Dibley, because we’re not the most diverse community,” Geraldine said, “but I don’t think it matters where you’re from, I think it matters that you do something about it – because Jesus would, wouldn’t he?”

She went on: “Listen, I’m aware that all lives matter, obviously, but until all lives matter the same, we’re doing something very wrong. So I think we need to focus on justice for a huge chunk of our country men and women who seem to have a very bad, weird deal, from the day they’re born.”

As she walked to the parish

THE VICAR OF DIBLEY TAKES THE KNEE FOR BLACK LIVES MATTER

notice board, she then took down old posters from the 1970s, and replaced them with a homemade poster that bore the words ‘Black Lives Matter’, before continuing: “I think that in Dibley, perhaps we should

be thinking about taking down some of our old notices, like this, and perhaps, we put up one like this instead”.

The show ended with Geraldine taking the knee in front of the noticeboard, looking out over

the village.As the episode ended, she paid a poignant goodbye to beloved best friend Alice, who on the show died of cancer three years earlier. Emma Chambers, who played Alice, died in 2018.

0208 865 1922 (London)

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 35

NEWS

GETTING READY FOR OUR OWN ROARING TWENTIES New Year Message From The Heart Of Mama T

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hen we ended 2019, we were on a high note with the amazing promise of 2020 only to be hit right in the face with a pandemic that has traversed the entire globe, causing such uncertainly, loss of life, death of businesses, along with the crushing blows to our hopes and dreams for a clear visionary 2020.

All year I have had my nose in the history books studying former pandemics and although this one in many ways is the same as others with the requirements of masks, lockdowns, job loss, business, churches and school closures, loss of life, the breakdown of spirits, emotions and hopes it is also very different than any other in actual scope, one reason for sure is the fact we have so many questions as to its origin and its intentions and that we are now so connected via the internet and social media proving that the adage that news travels fast is true.

We have suffered a year that has been filled with fear, dread, panic, uncertainty and unimaginable suffering the likes of which up until now we had only read about or seen in apocalyptic movies.

Only a few of us living now were born at the time of the last pandemic over a century ago which was the devastating 1918 influenza pandemic, the so-called “Spanish Influenza.”

From 1918 to 1919, that pandemic came right in the middle of World War 1. An estimated 500 million people worldwide contracted what we now know as the H1N1 virus, and 50 million died as a result— more than 300,000 died in South Africa and 675,000 in the United States mostly because of poor sanitation, poor communications as governments kept the disease secret (you see that is not a new phenomenon) and soldiers moving across the world during the war.

While the 1918 pandemic still stands as perhaps the deadliest pandemic of all time devastating millions, history tells us that there was light at the end of the tunnel because that pandemic ushered in the Roaring Twenties which was a balm for the massive pain and suffering.

A time that we can look upon today to encourage us that as dark as things seem now LIFE was not over but moving in for a new beginning.

The Roaring Twenties was a decade of economic growth and widespread prosperity, driven by recovery from wartime devastation, a horrific pandemic and deferred spending.

The 1920’s ushered in a boom in construction and infrastructure development across the globe with the rapid growth of consumer goods such as automobiles and electricity in North America, Europe and several developing nations in Africa and Asia.

Automobiles, radio, television, sound movies, advancement in aviation, new useful medicines, woman’s rights and much more came into being during the decade of the 20’s, proving that no matter the situation and devastation, the human spirit, if allowed, will recover, renew, replenish, create and produce positive ideas and concepts.

As we get ready for the new year, this history gives us confidence for the future, a future we can craft if we will have hope and trust casting out the fear that seems to be the real Pandemic.

I am hopeful that we can welcome 2021 with the understanding that while this challenging year has been a lot to take in, we have had times of Amazing Grace.

We have seen the big heartedness of our neighbours as well as

strangers. We have witnessed favour in the face of grave disappointments.

While we have had to grapple sometimes with the worst in the human spirit, we have been witness to the best in the human spirit.

Even in the face of gut wrenching police brutality in living colour captured on TV, we have also experienced police bravery and heroism.

2020 has indeed been an eyeopener to allow us to see with 2020 vision into the human heart and human condition and to confront the evil of racism and poverty and abuse and we have made some headway while in a pandemic.

And with 2020 vision to possibly take notice that Mother Earth is still in the business of correction, of balance, humbling us as only She knows how, showing us that a tiny virus can stop us in our tracks, when we stop paying attention to giving loving care to our natural a n d

animal family.

Though many of us are battled fatigued and pandemic weary, I am optimistic that we can still look back at the small wondrous things we have experienced in 2020 and be encouraged that 2021 will present us with a better positive year in spite of that fact that we are, unfortunately still hearing from those prophets of doom masquerading as visionaries telling us that we are in for more of the same in 2021.

I believe that we don’t have to be if we would learn from the lessons of not only of 2020 but 1920.

We don’t have to buy into the concept that there will not be any semblance of normal until the whole world is vaccinated with some new-fangled elements that the inventors themselves say will alter our DNA and cell structure.

I am not an antivaccine person, but really now, who wants something that will change what God has created, something that we are shamed into taking, forced into by the threat of not being

patriotic or not able to travel or work, or shop, this should not be the way of caring for one another but rather sounds like the end of our freedoms as we know them.

However, as for me, even in the face of uncertainty and what seems like draconian requirements, undue pressure, unsavoury methods, seeing the rich getting richer from human suffering while the poor are getting poorer and many more have become poor; I am yet so proud of us, We the People.

We have endured, we have prayed, we have shared with others, we have sung, we have danced, we have lived out the African mindset of Ubuntu.

All across a world, which has been hit not only by a health virus but the virus of meanness, racism, lies, hatred, nationalism, greed and avarice, we have yet endured.

In spite of all that we have seen, heard and experienced, in many, many cases, the virus of greed and selfishness has been vaccinated by the medicine of love, peace, joy, courage, and faith.

Moreover, those of us who are in the Resistance, so to speak are standing up to all of these viruses and though it looks bleak on some fronts we are winning, Love is winning, Righteousness is winning, Fairness is winning, Truth is winning, Faith in each other is winning.

We are standing up and asking the right questions about how, why, who and demanding to be heard and answered. We have been courageous, speaking Truth to Power and we don’t seem to be backing down.

I am proud of us, We the People, who understand our God ordained right to exist and live well in harmony with ourselves, our neighbours, our environment.

Even in the worst of times, against all odds, across the world, we peacefully protested, we campaigned for rightness, we voted, we spoke, we continued to look out for one another, we cared for the vulnerable, the downtrodden.

We have endeavoured to feed

the hungry, clothe the naked and house the homeless.

Though on many days our souls have been famished, our hearts a thirst for a respite, we have found that we still live in a Universe that is actually governed by love and joy.

Even in the darkest of circumstances of death, sickness and lack – we still found and attained some peace, comfort and provision.

I am comforted that the universe yet proclaims most freely through the words of Yeshuah, the God of love, that every thirsty one is welcome to the well of promise, to the well of hope, to the well of love, to the well of peace to quench our thirst.

These gifts of grace are available to all and no other requirement is necessary but that of thirst.

Whether we be thirsty for love, peace, knowledge, freedom, wellbeing, wellness, whether we are in need of the water of rest and comfort.

Any of us who suffers from thirst is invited to the well of life to drink. And drink to the full we must so that we are refreshed and able to rejoice as we come into the new year.

I want to encourage us today a couple of days before 2021 comes to us, that We HAVE the power to open the gates of a new year with joy and gladness.

We have the power to make choices that can drive away our griefs and set up banners of confidence as we set our hearts to be grateful, even for the little things, even for the troubling things, even for those things we would rather not have but can use for our upliftment and our strength.

So beloved, lets welcome 2021 with hope as we look forward to and welcome in our own ROARING TWENTIES. We can surely do it.

Happy New Year With love forever Mama T VOICE OF WISDOM Jerusalem First Ministries From Johannesburg 30 December 2020

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

l Sherril Donaldson – NU:GEN CARE CIC

NHS USE OF RAPID COVID Voice For Our TESTS DEFENDED Black Elders

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he mass use of rapid Covid tests has been defended by a senior NHS adviser, amid concerns over their accuracy.

Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser to NHS Test and Trace, said the lateral flow tests could identify many cases of infection in people without symptoms.

She accepted there had been "false negatives" but stressed the policy was a "game-changer".

A study found the tests missed 50% of cases and some scientists fear people could start to ignore

health advice. Meanwhile, a further 397 new coronavirus deaths were recorded in the UK on Saturday, with another 15,539 cases reported.

Mass testing is being introduced in England's "high-risk" areas and is starting in one of the areas hardest-hit by Covid-19 in Wales. And more than a million rapid tests are sent to care homes in England to allow safe indoor visits.

However, an article in the BMJ medical journal raised concerns about the effects of rapid testing in Liverpool, where

"We are trying to say (to people who test positive) 'You do have the disease and now we want you to go and isolate for 10 days.'

That is a whole different gamechanger."

However, she said mass testing did not end the need for social distancing, adding; "We are also very clear that until we get a much lower prevalence of disease in this country that we shouldn't be changing our behaviours.”

Work from Abroad – The Rise of Work Wellnesscations

Tech firm launch world’s first 5-in-1 secure health passport wallet BRITISH technology company VST Enterprises has confirmed it has developed the world’s first secure 5-in-1 digital health passport and wallet.

V-Health Passport is a crucial ‘safe technology enabler’ in reviving global economies, home lives and helping governments, business and industry to start returning to work and normality.

The cross-border, crosscorporation V-Health Passport can be used by international governments, consumers and companies to authenticate a person’s true identity, their Covid test results and vaccinations. This ‘enabler’ allows proving test and/or vaccination status.

With its own unique contact tracing capability using

a pilot scheme was carried out.

The lateral flow tests, which do not require processing in a laboratory, were reported to have missed half of all cases and a third of those with a high viral load who were likely to be the most infectious.

Dr Hopkins said the tests had "limitations" but said they were helping diagnose asymptomatic cases that would otherwise have gone undetected. She added: "What we are doing here is case detection. We are not saying people do not have the disease if their test is negative.

anonymised data, it also protects citizen’s data and privacy with a concept in the vein of ‘selfsovereign identity’.

Louis-James Davis, CEO of VST Enterprises, says; “We developed and built the V-Health Passport and health wallet to be the most secure technology on the planet where you could combine your test status, vaccination record, boarding pass, airline ticket, music or sports ticket all in one app.

“At the heart of the technology is the ability to protect and respect the data privacy of the individual”.

The V-Health Passport puts the citizen in control in a way which they share information with who, when and where.

THE INCREASING prevalence of remote work and tighter social distancing measures has created a new travel trend; instead of working from home, wellness enthusiasts are taking holidays abroad where they can work remotely while pursuing healthy activities.

Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists, has seen an increase in new bookings for clients who want to leave the living room and carry on working remotely from a luxury destination.

The rise in popularity is with good reason as studies suggest

that productivity is enhanced; many destinations like St Lucia and Madeira are safer havens from COVID-19; both work and personal life become more flexible.

As the winter intensifies and recent lockdowns mean those that can are once more working from home, you can only expect the work wellnesscation trend to continue to grow.

January in particular is likely to be popular as remote working from holiday can be supplemented with annual leave for an even better getaway experience.

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elcome to the first of, what I hope will be, many monthly articles on the State of Care for our Black Elders.

I would like this column to be an opportunity to interact with you, the reader, and an outlet for you to join in a dialogue that could change the landscape of care for the elders in our communities across the UK. 2020, regardless of who you are, can only be described as a truly horrific year. We saw the many inequalities faced by the Black Communities.

We saw the protests by groups such as ‘Black Lives Matter’ and ‘The Windrush Movement’ and we saw the creation and formulation of numerous groups, energised by the overt covert racism being displayed in the UK and abroad, to amplify Black Owned Businesses.

We watched the BBC TV series ‘Small Axe’, by Steve McQueen, chronicle the many injustices we have faced since coming to Britain.

We saw, and in many instances supported the creation of local groups, propelled by the blatant lack of basic services for our community into bridging the yawning gaps left by statutory services to ensure the most vulnerable in our community could survive the hardships of the pandemic.

We watched as many of us spent months in a permanent state of rage as we witnessed that ‘good old racism and inequalities’, long thought to have diminished, re-emerge with renewed energy and vigour.

Some of us participated in the clapping on the door step for the NHS staff and tolerated the ‘Emergency Food Parcels’ being distributed with no consideration of the cultural needs of the Black Community.

Concerns were raised and many conversations were had

with those with the responsibility to meet the needs of their constituents, only to learn, that after decades of being in the Country, WE as Black Elders and wider community, remain in the margins of society and as such our needs will be considered later!

We watched as the deaths from the virus were analysed and the conclusions highlighted our vulnerability to contract and die at higher rates than our white peers. Whether there are medical reasons for our vulnerability or not, the question remains, what practical actions have been taken to address those findings?

We have also seen recognition and acknowledgement, in the Voluntary Sector, that over the last two decades due to lack of funding, many of the Black Voluntary organisations have disappeared and so have the services they provided.

We saw the creation of ‘funding pots’ specifically created for the BAME community organisations and, although at first sight the amounts allocated appeared to be significant, the reality is entirely different if the amounts are allocated on a ‘per head’ basis it is a pittance!

So, in 2021, what will we do to make a difference for our community and for the elders in particular?

I believe, having witnessed all that has happened in 2020, we need to identify strategies to make lasting changes and ensure our children are not faced with the same situation in another twenty years.

WE need to work together to identify our pressure points and the existing organisation in a position to lead a movement to alleviate those challenges.

So, I ask you to contact me with your thoughts on the way forward and topics for discussion in this column to ensure we permanent lt change the landscape of care for our elders.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 37

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Green light for Integrated Care System in NHS partnership

EU starts vaccination in 'touching moment of unity'

THE EU has begun a coordinated vaccine rollout to fight Covid-19, in what the bloc's top official says is a "touching moment of unity".

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the PfizerBioNTech vaccine had been delivered to all 27 member states.

Some countries started administering the jabs on Saturday, saying they were not prepared to wait another day. The EU has so far reported more than 335,000 Covid-related deaths.

More than 14 million people have been infected, and strict lockdown measures are currently in place in nearly all the member states.

The vaccine rollout comes as cases of the more contagious variant of Covid-19 are confirmed in several European nations as well as Canada and Japan.

Mass vaccination across the EU - a bloc of 446 million people - began early on Sunday.

This comes after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the European Commission authorised the German-US Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The EU has secured contracts for more than two billion vaccine doses from a range of drug companies.

"Today, we start turning the page on a difficult year. The #COVID19 vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries.

“Vaccination will begin across the EU," Ms von der Leyen tweeted. "The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity.

Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic," she added.

"This vaccine is the crucial key for defeating the pandemic. It's the key for us getting back our lives." Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio urged his compatriots to get the jabs. "We'll get our freedom back, we'll be able to embrace again," he said.

NHS CORONAVIRUS APP TO GAIN SELF-ISOLATION PAYMENTS

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ngland and Wales' contact-tracing app has added a SelfIsolation Payment feature with the version 4 update addressing a discrepancy that previously existed.

People told to stay at home by human contact-tracers can qualify for £500 of support. But privacy safeguards built into the NHS Covid-19 app had complicated making the same offer to those who had received an automated self-isolate notification.

It is hoped the move will encourage more people to install the app and follow its guidance, when there are concerns that cases of the coronavirus could spike again.

The charity Citizens Advice has warned that many people ordered to stop work by the app have faced an "impossible choice", as they can experience a big drop in income if they act to help stop the spread of the virus.

England's NHS Test and Trace scheme and Wales's NHS Test, Trace, Protect counterpart both

NHS England and NHS Improvement have confirmed that Birmingham and Solihull Sustainability and Transformation Partnership’s (STPs) application to become an Integrated Care System (ICS) has been approved. The ICS will now move forward at pace, to enable it to deliver its full ambition by April 2022.

In an integrated care system, NHS organisations, in partnership with local councils and other partners, take collective responsibility for managing resources, delivering NHS care, and improving the health of the population they serve.

This is a crucial step for the Birmingham and Solihull system, recognising significant partnership working and collaboration over recent years across the NHS and local government.

allow affected people on low incomes, who cannot work from home, to apply for financial help.

Checks can be made against a register to prevent fraud. But because the app keeps the identity of users who have received selfisolation alerts secret, the process had to be adapted.

The team behind the app are aware that many of those instructed to self-isolate for up to 14 days are not doing so. It is thought the absence of a financial incentive is an important factor.

England's vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said: "I think you'll probably find restaurants, bars, cinemas and sports venues will probably also use that system, as they've done with the app."

He pointed out that the QR barcode feature of the app which registers visits to pubs, cafes and other businesses - had helped drive uptake. But with vaccinations already started, it appears unlikely that any immunity passport will be ready.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Allergy warning for Covid-19 vaccination PEOPLE with a history of significant allergic reactions should not have the Pfizer/ BioNTech Covid jab, regulators say. It came after two NHS workers had allergic reactions had their jabs.

The advice applies to those who have had reactions to medicines, food or vaccines, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency said.

The two people had a reaction shortly after having the new jab, had treatment and are both fine now.

They are understood to have had an anaphylactoid reaction, which tends to involve a skin rash, breathlessness and sometimes a drop in blood pressure.

This is not the same as anaphylaxis which can be fatal.

Both NHS workers have a history of serious allergies and carry adrenaline pens around with them.

EDGBASTON DAD WINS NATIONAL CHARITY AWARD

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dgbaston father, Saeed Ahmed, has been named ‘Campaigner of the Year’ by the national disability charity, Sense, for sharing his family’s story of caring for his 21-year-old disabled son, Azhar, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Saeed, 44, was recognised at the Sense Awards 2020 for supporting the charity’s #ForgottenFamilies campaign, which called on Government to reinstate services for families caring for disabled adults at home during lockdown.

As part of the campaign, Saeed presented Sense’s open letter to the Government asking for better support for families like his during the pandemic.

He also gave interviews with national and regional media, including ITV News, to share his

family’s story and highlight the devastating impact of the lack of support for families caring for disabled adults at home during lockdown.

When the UK entered lockdown in March, Azhar’s usual care and support stopped completely, and Saeed and his family took on all caring responsibilities.

The sudden change of routine was frustrating for Azhar and affected his wellbeing, as the family was unable to explain why he was forced to stay at home.

Saeed Ahmed said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been nominated for and won the ‘Campaigner of the Year’ award for 2020.

Sense as an organisation is close to my heart as they provide invaluable day care for my son and I’m glad that I have

supported the recent campaign to highlight the difficulties that families like mine have faced throughout lockdown.”

Sense Chief Executive, Richard Kramer, said: “Congratulations to Saeed, our ‘Campaigner of the Year’ for 2020. This year has been challenging for everyone, but particularly for those caring for disabled people at home during lockdown.

Despite this, Saeed committed to being involved in Sense’s #ForgottenFamilies campaign, calling for change for not only his own family, but the many other families across the country who also face this crisis.”

The Sense Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of people with complex disabilities, as well as the staff, carers, family members, volunteers and fundraisers who support them.

l ‘Campaigner of the Year’ Saeed Ahmed

Community urged to accept COVID vaccine

PEOPLE from the UK’s Black community are being encouraged to accept a Covid-19 vaccine amid concerns that they are less likely to take it up.

District nurse Genevieve Palmer was given the jab at Kingswood Health Centre in Bristol then asked communities to take the vaccine "to protect yourself, your family and everybody."

A Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) survey found that BAME groups, in general, were less likely to want the Covid vaccine. Office for National Statistics (ONS) data shows Black people are almost twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as white, with those of Bangladeshi and Pakistani ethnicity about 1.7 times as likely.

Ms Palmer said she was "very happy" to receive the inoculation

but admitted there was scepticism in the Black community, even among her friends.

"Coming here, I ran into some friends from my background and when I said I'm going to get my Covid vaccine it wasn't well accepted. People were asking 'are you sure?'

"I just want to say that it's very safe, go and have it to protect yourself, your family and everybody. I want to encourage them to get out there and have it. Do your research and stop believing what you see on Youtube. It doesn't help."

Dr Neil Kerfoot, who is leading the vaccination programme at Kingswood Health Centre, said that first in line were people aged over 80 and they had taken into account patients' other illnesses, vulnerability and ethnicity when

planning the order of vaccinations for the community.

The GP said: "I think it rates as one of the most complicated and challenging, but also one of the most exciting things we've done."

RSPH chief executive, Christina Marriott, said "anti-vaccination messages have been specifically targeted" at some ethnic and religious communities through mediums such as messaging service WhatsApp. Focussing on areas including Barton Hill, Lawrence Hill, Avonmouth and Lawrence Weston, Bristol City Council said working with Somali, Sudanese and Pakistani communities in schools, cafes and housing estates has helped to bring the coronavirus case numbers down.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 39

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

DAD AND COLLEAGUES TAKE ON MOVEMBER FOR 3-YEAR-OLD’S SURGERY & REHAB

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father and his colleagues grew moustaches in November to help raise £50,000 for surgery and aftercare for his three-year-old son.

Nick England, 41, from Codsall, in the West Midlnds, and nine of his colleagues at Trailfinders in Birmingham grew their facial hair for the fund for three-year-old James for the third year in a row.

Chairman and founder of Trailfinders Mike Gooley agreed to match the amount of any funds raised – meaning that this year the event raised over £10,000, including the matchfunding.

James was born ten weeks early and spent the first five weeks of

To advertise in The Phoenix

his life in intensive care. Aged 15 months he was diagnosed with Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy.

He has spasticity in both his legs and arms which can be uncomfortable and restricts his movements. He cannot sit unaided or walk, but he can bunny-hop crawl and almost catch his big brother Edward, aged 5.

James is currently on the waiting list for selective dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery at Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool and the family need to raise the funds for this as well as specialist equipment and physiotherapy.

It will not be covered by the NHS, but his neurosurgeon believes that the procedure will improve James’ quality of life and

reduce his pain. It may also help him to walk.

Nick said: ‘It’s great that my colleagues have got behind me again. Obviously this year was very different – we are all working from home and some of us are furloughed, so there was none of the usual comparing hair growth in the office! But we kept things going on social media, Zoom and the like so it was a fun event even so.

“I am of course very grateful to Trailfinders for agreeing to the match funding again.”

The family are being supported

by Tree of Hope, a charity which helps families fundraise for children like James with healthcare needs.

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham)

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Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

OVERSEAS NEWS

U.S. Virgin Islands Sees Light At End Of Pandemic Tunnel Josephine Williams Jamaica Basic Schools Foundation

Celebrating Community Leaders As We Look To 2021

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he U.S. Virgin I s l a n d s Commissioner of Tourism has cautioned that while a Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine is on the horizon, protocols and guidelines implemented to

protect lives and livelihoods in the Territory should not slacken.

Speaking on a recent Condé Nast Traveler virtual panel discussion, Commissioner Joseph Boschulte said while he understood the real effects of pandemic fatigue, “we're

getting closer to the finish line with a vaccine and we've done so well for nine months; we don't want to mess it up in the last three or four months.”

Maintaining a heightened state of vigilance is essential since the lion’s share of the Territory’s visitors arrive from

the United States mainland, where the number of daily new COVID-19 cases continues to rise in many states. Addressing participants during the “New Standards in Safety and Health” online session, the tourism leader highlighted a recent partnership with

Commonwealth Countries End Year On A Musical Note S E C R E TA R Y- G E N E R A L Patricia Scotland has described a never-before-attempted musical feat as “uplifting and a powerful testament to the Commonwealth’s resilience”.

The recently released ‘Simple Gifts’ soundtrack under the United Commonwealth COVID Music Project, features a collaboration of musicians, each representing a Commonwealth country.

The Secretary-General said: “Strings, woodwind, brass, percussion and the enchanting sound of the human voice of all ages, arranged in one powerful performance to the backdrop of the Commonwealth’s villages, cities and coastlines.

“It is a true reflection of

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the iridescent spectrum of our multidimensional, multicultural Commonwealth.” She added: “As parts of the world descend into lockdown, as we face the heart-wrenching moments of saying goodbye to loved ones, as economic turmoil and uncertainty become our new norm, this video will hopefully lift our spirits and inspire hope for a bright 2021.

“This project reminds us that we are not alone and that whatever we face, we face as a family, rich in talent and innovation. It reminds us that we have all the tools to build back better.”

Delivered in partnership with a professional music group, Dionysus Ensemble, the project harnesses the power of music to lift spirits, improve

American Airlines which enables travelers to be tested before boarding, allowing them to comply with the Territory’s five-day window for being tested, receiving test results and submitting results through an online portal.

mental health and encourage international camaraderie, as countries tackle the challenges of the pandemic. Project Leader and ​Artistic Director of​ The Dionysus Ensemble, Léonie Adams, ​ connected with high commissioners, musicians and participants to put together the inspiring soundtrack.

She said: “When I first listened to the finished project, the hair on the back of my ​neck stood up. It has been an amazing, exciting journey from Africa, to the Caribbean, to Asia to the Pacific, the Americas and right back here to the UK where I reside.

"It has been great to connect with people from all walks of life all over the world putting this together. It has been an incredible chance to share some joy and to create the most extraordinary network across the Commonwealth in a year when musicians' livelihoods everywhere have been hard hit.”

The Dionysus Ensemble is the Ensemble-in-Residence for the Commonwealth Resounds - the accredited music organisation within the Commonwealth.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 41

OVERSEAS NEWS

Metro Link Launched To Help Curb pollution

China's Supreme Court hires Uganda's ex-chief justice CHINA'S Supreme Court has hired Uganda's former Chief Justice, Bart Katureebe, as a member of its expert committee on adjudication of international commercial disputes.

Justice Katureebe will sit on the committee for the next four years.

He retired from Uganda's Supreme Court in June after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70 years.

"I am profoundly excited about this appointment, for it is a high-level committee that will keep me professionally connected," he is quoted as saying in a statement tweeted

by Uganda's judiciary.

The expert committee, established in August 2018, is

I

part of the China International Commercial Court (CICC) which is an organ of China's Supreme Court.

The committee is comprised of 31 leaders of international organisations, legal experts, scholars, judges and lawyers selected from different countries, the statement by Uganda's judiciary added.

It mediates international commercial disputes assigned to it, provides legal opinion on foreign laws when asked and gives advice on the future of the CICC. The Chinese embassy in Uganda has congratulated Justice Katureebe on his appointment.

l Air pollution around the Taj Mahal has been a growing concern ndian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated a metro project aimed at curbing the impact of air pollution on the Taj Mahal.

The rail network, in the northern city of Agra, will connect the 17th Century monument and other historic sites with railway stations and bus stops.

It's estimated the project will cost Rs 8,379.62 crore ($1.1bn; $854.2m) and take five years to complete.

The Taj Mahal is one of the world's leading tourist attractions.

It draws as many as 70,000 people a day.

Taking part in a virtual ceremony, which was broadcast on Twitter, Mr Modi said that the scheme includes 10 million houses for low-income residents. He also highlighted his government's efforts to modernise rail networks nationwide.

In 2018, India's Supreme Court criticised the government for a "failure" to protect the historic site.

During May that year, the court had instructed the government to seek foreign help to fix the

Teacher wins $1m and gives half away

A TEACHER from a village school in India, praised for improving the education of girls, won th e ‘Global Teacher Prize’. But Ranjitsinh Disale gave away half of the $1m (£750,000) sharing it with runners-up in the competition.

The winners were announced

by Stephen Fry in an online ceremony.

Mr Disale, who teaches in the

Zilla Parishad Primary School, in drought-prone Paritewadi, in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, was named the world's most exceptional teacher, ahead of 12,000 other nominations.

"In this hard time, teachers are giving their best to make sure every student has access to their birthright of a good education," said Mr Disale.

Teachers "always believe in

"worrying change in colour" of the structure, which was built under the rule of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

The court concluded that the Taj Mahal, constructed from white marble and other materials, was turning various shades of yellow, brown and green. Pollution, construction and insect dung are said to be among the causes.

Constant cleaning required to maintain the building's original colouring has since worn away at the delicate stonework.

giving and sharing", he said, and as such was sharing half his prize money among the other teachers shortlisted in the top 10.

32-year-old Disale was praised by the competition's judges for his work to ensure disadvantaged girls went to school and achieved high results - rather than missing out on school and facing early marriage. He also provides online science lessons for pupils in 83 countries and runs an international project building connections between young people in conflict zones.

Founder of the Varkey Foundation that set up the teachers' competition, Sunny Varkey, said: "By sharing the prize you teach the world the importance of giving".

Mr Disale's decision to split the prize means that over £40,000 each for runners-up from countries including Italy, Brazil, Vietnam, Malaysia, Nigeria, South Africa, South Korea, the US and also Jamie Frost from the UK.

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Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL Travelzoo Records Ninth Consecutive Award Win TRAVELZOO a global Internet media company that publishes exclusive offers and experiences for members, has won its ninth award in nine consecutive years for "Best Travel Deals Finder" at the prestigious British Travel Awards.

The win was announced at a virtual ceremony broadcast live from Canary Wharf in London. Usually the biggest event of the UK travel-awards season, the virtual event pulled out all the stops, with the BBC's 'The One Show' host, Alex Jones, presenting. James Clarke, Travelzoo's General Manager, UK, accepted the award via the event's online platform.

Over 244,000 votes were cast this year, making the British Travel Awards the biggest consumer-voted awards in the UK. In a year when many holidaymakers have been confined to only dreaming about a holiday rather than taking one, the pent-up demand for travel showed in the numbers of British consumers voting.

T

he Caribbean premiere of the acclaimed film ‘Misbehaviour’ took place in Grenada, the birthplace of Miss World 1970, Jennifer Hosten.

The red carpet event organized by the Grenada Film Commission at Movie Palace Cinema was attended by a select group of Grenadians including Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Climate Resilience and the Environment Hon. Dr. Clarice ModesteCurwen, Advisor to the Minister Mrs. Brenda Hood, former Tourism Minister Alexandra Otway, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) Patricia Maher, award winning Author and playwright Ricardo Keen Douglas, Grenada Film Commissioner Ellen Spielman, other Committee members and invited guests.

The premiere in Grenada began with a recorded panel discussion in which Jennifer Hosten spoke of her involvement in the making of the film about her extraordinary story followed by a personal welcome for the audience.

The movie which first premiered in the UK is praised for its portrayal of a defining moment in history: the crowning of Jennifer Hosten, the first woman of colour as Miss World. Directed

by BAFTA winner Philippa Lowthorpe, ‘Misbehaviour’ stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Jennifer Hosten and Keira Knightley as a member of the newly formed Women’s Liberation Movement along with a star studded cast Hosten, born in Grenada in

Pure Grenada Welcomes the Caribbean Premiere of ‘Misbehaviour’ 1947, was a flight attendant for BWIA (now Caribbean Airlines) when she took a leave of absence to compete in Miss World. The beauty competition was the mostwatched TV show on the planet and in 1970 was hosted by US comedy legend, Bob Hope.

When the live broadcast was interrupted by a Women’s

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Liberation Movement stage invasion, the global audience was captivated. Then, as Miss Grenada - the self-styled Nutmeg Princess - was crowned the first woman of colour Miss World, the moment was indelibly etched in history.

Following the premiere, Chairman of the Organizing Committee Alexandra Otway

said, “We in Grenada are so proud because not only does our Jennifer shine, it’s a story that needed to be told. She broke glass ceilings long before it was fashionable.”

Visibly moved by the film, Tourism Minister ModesteCurwen said, “It’s a signal to women and young girls, especially women of colour, that they too can

achieve extraordinary things. I hope that this film can be shown to a wider Grenadian audience, especially children.”

‘Misbehaviour’ will be shown at Movie Palace for a limited period.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 43

HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL

2021 IS THE YEAR OF THE BIG TRIP H

oliday plans for thousands of us have been thrown into disarray this year due to the Covid-19 crisis, but now the big overseas trip is back for 2021 and the year after with advance bookings taking off.

Enquiries and bookings for departures more than a year out are well ahead of where they'd usually be at this point, according to worldwide travel company Kuoni, as people anticipate a return to more normal life beyond the pandemic.

A new report from luxury worldwide travel company Kuoni reveals saving and upgrading is a trend as people pull out all the stops to make next year's holiday extra special with the average spend per booking rising by £683 from £8,549 in 2019 to £9,231 for 2021, based on advance bookings so far.

Kuoni reports seeing more people upgrade their holiday for next year with business class, helicopter transfers and extra experiences such as hot air balloon flights.

The Maldives tops the list of long-haul destinations in demand,

given a boost by being granted a travel corridor but also buoyed by more direct flights and the appeal of isolated retreats with private pool villas which lend themselves perfectly to safe, away-from-it-all bubble accommodation.

The Seychelles also makes the list of wish list destinations, with direct flights and a travel corridor it's proving to be a big winner for next year with couples looking for a castaway vibe.

Safari trips are also in demand for those dusting down their bucket lists. Kenya is a trusted favourite for couples and families looking for soul-nourishing experiences for the post-pandemic world with new camps and wildlife experiences boosting bookings.

Botswana enquiries are also building as it is just the type of big-ticket wildlife holiday garnering interest not just for next year, but also 2022.

Closer to home, demand is rising for trusted favourites Italy and Greece, which are both enjoying an upswing in bookings for Summer 2021 as well as special occasion trips.

Two New Michelin Stars for Mallorca MALLORCA is continuing to be recognised for its culinary excellence and this month has picked up two new Michelin stars for the island.

The new Michelin stars were awarded to local chefs, Santi Taura for his DINS restaurant within the boutique hotel El Llorenç Parc de la Mar in Palma, and father and son Benet and Jaume Vicens of Béns d'Avall restaurant in Soller/ Deia.

In addition, the Michelin star chef, Andreu Genestra, of Hotel Predi Son Jaumell in Capdepera, was also awarded a green Michelin star for his extreme care towards sustainability.

These chefs are joined by existing Michelin starred restaurants on the island that bring the total to nine Michelin star restaurants in total

Family Surf Co Launches New Cornwall Family Surf Breaks Where Mums Come First FAMILY Surf Co. – the UK's only specialist family surf travel company – has launched a new range of family breaks in Cornwall, focussing on surfing and me-time for mums.

Taking a new approach to family surf retreats, the weekenders include luxury accommodation at Watergate Bay Hotel, small group surf and yoga sessions for mums, and funpacked beach activities for the whole family.

From surf lessons to beach fitness and yoga, the itinerary is

designed to build mums' strength and confidence in the ocean.

The weekend also includes a Sea Surf Safety Session for the whole family, where you'll learn about rip currents, wildlife and ocean skills, while having a splash and enjoying life with your toes in the sand.

There are plenty of optional activities for Dads and kids and childcare is available – ensuring the whole family enjoys a snapshot of family beach life in Cornwall.

“We’re mums who put surfing

and beach life at the centre of our family lives,” says co-founder Celine Bennet.

“We understand that your fitness and ocean confidence can ebb after having kids, and that it’s difficult to muster the time and energy to hit the waves around family life.

“But we also believe that time out in the waves is just what’s needed to re-connect with yourself and your family, embrace nature, and boost your wellbeing.”

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Page 44 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

Leaseholders not backed over cladding removal costs MINISTERS say they cannot rule out leaseholders in England having to meet some of the costs of removing flammable cladding from their homes.

While £1.6bn had been made available, Chris Pincher told MPs the government would not write an "open cheque".

It was up to developers and building owners to "step up" and take primary responsibility for repairs, he added.

MPs say delays to the process and uncertainty over who will pay are causing "unimaginable anxiety". Labour's Clive Betts

said government support was "totally inadequate" given the cost of removal aluminium composite and other dangerous materials could be as much as £15bn.

After the 2017 Grenfell fire, the government pledged safe alternatives to dangerous cladding would be provided on all buildings in England taller than 18 metres by last June.

But a report in September found that only 155 out of 455 high-rise buildings with similar cladding to Grenfell have had it replaced.

SIR IAN MCKELLEN BACKS BID TO BUY TOLKIEN HOUSE

S

ir Ian McKellen has backed a campaign to buy the house where author JRR Tolkien once

lived.

The actor, who played Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings movie franchise, hopes a "fellowship" of fans will come together to raise £4.5m.

The crowdfunding campaign, called Project Northmoor, was set up by author Julia Golding to preserve the house for future generations.

It has also been backed by actor Martin Freeman who starred in The Hobbit.

They are joined by Annie Lennox, who wrote and performed an Oscar winning song for The Return of the King, Middle Earth illustrator John Howe, as well as actors John Rhys-Davies and Sir Derek Jacobi.

Tolkien, who spent his childhood

growing up in Birmingham, is believed to have written The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings at the house, which was home to the writer and his family from 1930 until 1947.

The six-bedroom home in Northmoor Road, Oxford, is largely unchanged since it was built in 1924.

McKellen said: "We cannot achieve this without the support of the worldwide community of Tolkien fans, our fellowship of funders."

Ms Golding said purchasing the house was a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

She added: "To raise six million dollars in three months is a huge challenge.

"However, we need only to look at Frodo and Sam's journey from Rivendell to Mount Doom, which took that same amount of time and we are inspired that we can do

this too."

She said the plan was to "welcome Tolkien enthusiasts from the world" there.

Mr Rhys-Davies said: "Unbelievably, considering his importance, there is no centre devoted to Tolkien anywhere in the world."

He said it would be a "literary hub that will inspire new generations of writers, artists and filmmakers".

It was bought by a private buyer in 2004 for more than £1.5m and was given Grade II-listed status shortly afterwards.

Tolkien died in 1973, but the popularity of his works remains undimmed, with Amazon Studios recently announcing a Lord of the Rings television series.

The show is widely tipped to be the most expensive ever made, at a cost of at least $1bn (£801m).

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 45

PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

PROPERTY MARKET ‘TO BE TOUGHER' FOR FIRST-TIME BUYERS

Professor Martin Levermore MBE DL Medical Devices Technology Limited

Celebrating Community Leaders As We Look To 2021

O

fficial forecasts predict a fall in UK house prices with the economy in recession and jobs being lost.

First-time buyers may be rejoicing about the prospect of cheaper property. Yet a report by the Resolution Foundation suggests home ownership could become increasingly "out of reach" for this group of people.

It comes as a survey of agents predicts a medium-term downturn in the housing market, following a short-lived boom after lockdown.

The coronavirus crisis has led to people losing their jobs, incomes being hit, and the economy slumping.

Reopening the housing market and government support has led to a short-term rise in house prices

and demand for property.

This will not last, commentators say, and over the coming months, house prices will inevitably fall on average, according to the government's official forecaster, the Office for Budget Responsibility.

It has predicted falls of anything between 2% this year, to 22% by the latter half of next year. Its central forecast is an 11% fall by the end of 2021 and flat lining thereafter.

Usually, first-time buyers would see house price falls as a chance for property to become more affordable. Some young people in stable jobs, with savings, and who have had the chance to put more aside in lockdown will benefit, the Resolution Foundation's Housing Outlook report says.

Claim suggest insecure tenancies leads to worse Covid risks THE Health Foundation says insecure tenancies, poor housing conditions and overcrowding lead to health problems and worsens risks in the pandemic, a think tank claims.

It is also why the poor and those from ethnic minorities are disproportionately more likely to have Coronavirus and have worse health outcomes as a result.

Adam Tinson, a senior analyst at the think tank, says: “Since March many of us have spent a lot more time at home. For

many, the quality of their home has made their experience of the pandemic even worse than it needed to be.

“While some have weathered lockdown in large homes with gardens and plenty of living space, others have struggled in overcrowded and unsafe conditions.

“Overcrowding is associated with the spread of Covid-19, making self-isolation more difficult and allowing the virus to spread through more people if one becomes infected” he continues.

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Page 46 - The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

62 athletes offered membership to Olympic and Paralympic Futures Academy BRITISH ATHLETICS has announced the 62 athletes who have been offered membership to the Olympic and Paralympic Futures Academy programmes for 2021, which is supported by Nike, the Official Partner of the Futures Academy Programme.

Due to the challenging circumstances brought by the Covid-19 pandemic this year, and the impact this has had on our athletes, British Athletics has retained all athletes from the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Futures Academy Programme for the year ahead.

There are ten additions to Olympic Futures Academy Programme including two athletes who moved up the UK all-time age-group rankings this year; hammer thrower Charlotte Payne and endurance athlete Jake Smith.

Smith lowered the British U23 Half Marathon record in phenomenal style at the World Athletics Half Marathon Championships in Gdynia, Poland, in October. His time of 60:31 also saw him move to third on the UK all-time list behind Sir Mo Farah and Callum Hawkins.

Payne won silver in the women’s hammer with a mark of 63.92 metres at the Mßller British Athletics Championships in Manchester.

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DIVERSITY MANIFESTO LAUNCHED BY MILAN CHIEF GAZIDIS

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lack of stadium development is one of the reasons racism remains an issue in Italian football, says AC Milan chief executive Ivan Gazidis.

Milan's San Siro is one of 12 Serie A grounds built over 50 years ago and only champions Juventus play in a ground opened more recently than 2010.

"We see an environment in which there is a lack of respect kind of built in, perhaps similar to what we saw in England before the development of stadiums," Gazidis said.

"The new stadiums provide an atmosphere in which people feel more safe and secure.

"They have more technology in them, they're more inclusive, you get more diversity in

the crowds, women come, children come, people from every different race, colour, background and sexual orientation feel more welcome into the stadiums.

"That's what we have to work towards here in Italy. I think England perhaps has been working on these issues in a deeper way for longer. That doesn't mean they are anywhere near the end of the journey."

Milan have launched a 'Manifesto for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion' which they say will help tackle all forms of prejudice and discrimination within football.

"Denying that we have issues and pushing them under the carpet does not help," said former Arsenal chief executive Gazidis. "The first thing is acknowledgment and then we

can take action.

"This is a process and there is no end to the process that we're on. The journey that football has taken over the last 20 or 30 years has been significant, but we have a long way to go."

Milan were the drivers behind an open letter released last year in which all 20 Serie A clubs pledged to combat Italian football's "serious problem" with racism because there is no more "time to waste".

"It was a very significant moment," said Gazidis. "It was a moment when all of the clubs came together with one voice and said 'we believe more must be done'.

"This wasn't just a call to action to the league and the governing bodies; it was also a call to action for ourselves."

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The Phoenix Newspaper - January 2021 - Page 47

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

STADIUM REDEVELOPMENT TAKING SHAPE AT PACE

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n inspection of the progress on the redevelopment of the Alexander Stadium ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games was carried out by athletes and project partners with the demolition of three existing stands completed and the site remodelled with steelwork that will form the eye-catching new West Stand, which has started to take shape.

And despite the pandemic, the £72.4million scheme remains on budget and scheduled for completion in spring 2022 ahead of its initial use as the venue for the Games.

Kelly Sotherton, Team England’s Track and Field Team Leader for Birmingham

2022, said: “It’s fantastic to be able to take a closer look at the progress that’s been made on the redevelopment of the Alexander Stadium.

“I’m impressed with how quickly the new parts of the Alexander Stadium are taking shape.

“This will be an amazing venue for Birmingham 2022 and I’m sure that athletes from across the country, and around the world, are looking forward to competing here during the Games.”

Birmingham 2022 Chief Executive Officer, Ian Reid, added: “It was great to end the year on such a positive note and it is exciting to witness first-hand the hard work and passion that has been poured into this project over the last few months.”

PSG And Basaksehir Unite Against Racism PARIS St-Germain (PSG) and Istanbul Basaksehir players took a knee around the centre circle in an antiracism message before the restart of their Champions League tie.

The fixture was abandoned at 0-0 after the fourth official was accused of using a racist term towards Basaksehir assistant Pierre Webo. The incident happened just 14 minutes into the Group H tie, which was still goalless at PSG's Parc des Princes stadium.

Both sets of players walked off the pitch with the game delayed by a day.

"It was something very new," said Fare (Football Against Racism in Europe) executive director Piara Powar.

“Basaksehir and PSG players walking off the pitch will act as a ‘marker’ in football's fight against racism.

"This is the first time we've seen this happen in open play and I think it signifies a marker.

“Many Black players are now saying we may have put

Maghoma Enjoying Life In Indian Super League EAST Bengal's DR Congo international midfielder Jacques Maghoma says that the Indian Super League (ISL) can emulate Major League Soccer (MLS) in the US. On the back of five seasons with Birmingham City, his chose to ply his trade in India, covets another experience in a different football culture.

Intrigued by the history, pedigree and forward planning of ISL newcomers, the 33-yearold said: "The ISL is only in its seventh season and you can already tell how much it has improved from when it first started.

"The stadiums, the pitches, the referees - how everything is set up, a lot of it has improved.

It will be like Major League Soccer."

MLS was launched in 1996 and over the past 25 years it has blossomed with the proliferation of football-specific stadiums, the signings of marquee players

and national TV contracts.

In terms of media coverage, though the league is still battling for attention in a crowded field of traditional American sports.

The London-born former Burton and Sheffield Wednesday player said: "Who would have known that the MLS would have gone from what it was, maybe ten years ago, to what it is now?

"The ISL will grow and even grow bigger than the MLS. The league has the potential to do that and attract more and bigger players to come and play out here in the latter stages of their career."

whilst Councillor Brigid Jones, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, which is delivering the Stadium redevelopment project, added: “As we come up to the third anniversary of Birmingham being awarded the Games, we have made so far in our preparations, and the longlasting legacy that this project will create for the people of Perry Barr and Birmingham as a whole.”

Post-Games the Stadium is set to become a focal point of health, well-being, sport, academic and community activity in an improved Perry Park as part of the wider Perry Barr Regeneration Scheme - which will see well over £500million invested into north-west Birmingham in the next decade. up with this in the past and seen things which racialised us unfairly in the past, but now we will take the power we have and use it and walk off, which is within their right."

The game restarted with a Basaksehir free-kick in the 14th minute.

Webo - who had been sent off - was allowed to take his place on the away bench, with his red card suspended while UEFA investigates the whole incident and a new set of officials were in charge for the game’s restart, with Dutchman Danny Makkelie appointed referee.

Both sets of players and the officials - who also took a knee during the Champions League anthem - wore 'no to racism' T-shirts in the warm-up, with anti-racism banners in the stands.

PSG needed a win to finish top of their group, and above RB Leipzig.

The eventual final score was 5-0 to the French club.

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Stadium Redevelopment Continues At Pace - Page 47

Diversity Manifesto Launched - Page 46

SIR HAMILTON CROWNED SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR F

ormula 1 world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton has been voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2020. One of F1's all-time great drivers, he equalled Michael Schumacher's record of seven world titles with his fourth consecutive championship in 2020.

The 35-year-old, from Stevenage, also surpassed Schumacher’s total of 91 grand prix wins.

In a public vote, Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson finished second while jockey Hollie Doyle was third.

He said: “I’m so proud of what they have achieved and I want to say thank you to everyone that has voted for me.

I wasn’t expecting this knowing there are so many great contenders.

“It’s been such an unusual year and I want to mention all the front line workers and all the children around the world, I want you to try and stay positive through this difficult time, I’m sending you all positivity. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

It is the second time Hamilton has been crowned Sports Personality of the Year, having first won the award in 2014. He is also a four-time runnerup, most recently in 2018 and 2019.

Sir Lewis, who was knighted in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List, and who says becoming the most decorated driver in Formula One history “doesn’t mean anything unless I continue to lead the fight against racism - in the sport - as he holds the record for most pole positions, won 11 of the 17 grand prix during the 2020 season, which started four months late due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He achieved three further podium finishes. His Mercedes team showed their backing for his Black Lives Matter movement by changing their car’s silver livery to all black for the winning season.

Silverstone owners, the British Racing Drivers’ Club, have named the track’s pit straight after the Hertfordshire-born Sir Lewis in honour of his achievements this year.

He has won a record seven British Grand Prix and has celebrated six of them on the podium that overlooks the new Hamilton Straight.

The Sports Personality of the Year 2020 - broadcast live from MediaCityUK, in Salford, in front of a 1,000-strong virtual audience - was fronted by Alex Scott, Gary Lineker, Clare Balding and Gabby Logan as they looked back on a truly unusual year of sport.

Other Sports Personality 2020 award winners included:

Helen Rollason Award

Captain Sir Tom Moore

Expert Special Panel Award Marcus Rashford

Coach of the Year Jurgen Klopp

Team of the Year Liverpool FC

Unsung Hero

Sgt Matt Ratana

Captain Tom Young Unsung Hero Tobias Weller

Young Sports Personality of the Year

Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix

West Indies Win Spirit Of Cricket Award

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ricket West Indies won the 2020 Christopher MartinJenkins Spirit of Cricket Award for sending their men's and women's teams to tour England.

The men's side arrived in June, last year, for a three-Test series when coronavirus infection rates in England were high.

The women played a Twenty20 series in September at short notice after India and South Africa were unable to tour because of the pandemic.

"We are delighted," said Cricket West Indies chief executive Johnny Grave.

"I'd like to thank MCC and the BBC for recognising the efforts that our teams made in helping to ensure that international cricket came back safely during the pandemic."

All matches this summer were played in a bio-secure environment, with players staying in hotels on site and no fans allowed in the grounds.

MCC president and former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara said West Indies' actions "truly embodied the spirit of cricket".

The MCC and BBC, who created the award in 2013 in memory of former BBC Test Match Special commentator

and MCC president Martin-Jenkins, also praised the Pakistan Cricket Board, Cricket Ireland and Cricket Australia for allowing teams to tour.

They also said the England and Wales Cricket Board made a "herculean effort to host international cricket in this extraordinary year".

The 2019 winners were the New Zealand men's team, who were recognised for their conduct after losing the World Cup final to England.

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