But the data have been described as “highly concerning”. The report revealed that drug offences in the city went up by 37.4%, followed by drug affected crime (+20.1%); sexual offences, particularly rape (+13.7%) and domestic violent crime (+ 9.7%). Other increases were modern slavery (+16.1%) and cruelty to children (+14.4%). But according to the document, the numbers for these offences are “relatively small and percentage changes should therefore be interpreted with caution”. Anti-social behaviour offences also went up from 7,765 cases in 2018/19 to 7,881 in 2019/20. However, there was a reduction in Most Serious Violence (-3.5%); arson (-35.6%), residential burglary (-12.1%) and offences where a bladed implement was used (-4.4%).
Fawad Alam celebrates his 100 against New Zealand in the first Test at the Bay Oval.
He pulls Wagner’s short ball to the square leg boundary to reach his second Test century and immediately looks up heavenwards whispers a prayer of thanks to the Almighty and takes off his helmet. Then Rizwan, his batting partner, hugs him.
It was one of the most emotional hugs seen on a cricket ground, perhaps, barring the Imran-Miandad hug at the MCG after winning the World Cup in 1992.
But the hug at the Bay Oval in New Zealand felt more personal. Rizwan physically expressed the elation at Fawad Alam’s individual milestone, yet, it had also touched tens of thousands of other hearts. Oceans away, in Pakistan, one could feel that emotional vibe in Mount Maunganui, through the TV screen. From Karachi to Khyber, everyone felt it. It was a moment for Pakistan cricket fans, sans any ethnic ‘Lahore v Karachi’ divide.
THESE next few weeks will be the most difficult we have ever faced . This is what Southampton and Hampshire s NHS leaders are warning as they urged residents to stick to Covid-19 rules as the vaccine rollout reaches a vital stage. In an open letter to the local community, they have called for the public to support the NHS by staying at home. And the warning comes as Hampshire hospitals and GP practices are busier than ever before . In the open letter, NHS bosses in Hampshire said: With the development of vaccines we now know we can beat this virus, but we cannot let our guard down. These next few weeks will be the most difficult we have ever faced. The colder weather makes things all the more challenging for us. That is why we are asking for your help.